Jeep Wrangler CJ66 showcases new Mopar Engine Kit

AT A recent press event at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, the Mopar brand announced its new Crate HEMI Engine Kits.

The kits have the ability to pair modern 5.7- or 6.4-litre HEMI engines with cars made in 1975 and earlier.

To demonstrate the engine kit, Mopar unveiled a customised Jeep CJ66 built for this year’s SEMA event.

The Mopar-fettled 1966 Jeep Wrangler is on a TJ frame, and has a Jeep Wrangler CJ universal Tuxedo Park body with Wrangler JK elements added. Power comes from a 5.7-litre HEMI engine capable of 285kW, which was installed with Mopar’s 345 Crate HEMI Engine Kit.

The kit includes engine and chassis harnesses, an accelerator pedal, a power distribution centre and an unlocked PCM to create a ‘virtual plug ’n’ play option for owners’. The kit also features 02 sensors, ground jumper, charge air temperature sensor and ‘in-depth’ information sheets on installation.

“Our new Mopar Crate HEMI Engine Kits answer enthusiast demand for a relatively simple solution for plugging modern-day HEMI engine power into their classic Mopar rides,” said Pietro Gorlier, Head of Parts and Service (Mopar), FCA – Global.

“The engine kits include the hardware to plant a 5.7-litre or 6.4-litre HEMI engine under the hood with the factory-backed confidence that comes when using Mopar parts. They also offer optional front-end accessory kits like power steering or even exhaust manifolds to make installation easier.”

Both the 345 and 392 Crate HEMI Engine Kits start at US$1795 (MSRP) and can be used with a previously purchased 2014 or newer 5.7-litre or 6.4-litre HEMI service engine.

Alternatively, customers can purchase a new engine with the kit included.