Maybe Jeep didn't design a perfect fuel delivery system for the CJ. Maybe the brainiac engineers were out wheelin' when the intake was being designed. The reason why the vehicle outlasts the carburetor was forgotten when the boys at Mopar decided to make 258 enthusiasts as joyful as Bill Clinton in a topless bar. An electronic, multi-point injection system wasn't prevalent on any American mill until the '85 Corvette was introduced. Only now has it become the standard method on late-model Jeeps. Add to that an electronic-ignition system, and the DeLorean in Back To The Future couldn't hold a candle to your CJ.
If your rig is equipped with...
If your rig is equipped with factory A/C and the pump is mounted above the alternator, you may have a problem fitting up the idler pulley. If so, you'll have to buy a separate fitting to mount the coolant temperature sensor (arrow) elsewhere so that you can re-mount the pulley bracket.
Install:
* The fuel line routing is important and the instructions are detailed. We mounted the lines underneath the radiator, but it's vehicle-specific.
* The instructions are sometimes difficult to understand; the provided tip sheet is a lifesaver. It's also available online.
* Order the correct vibration dampener with your kit.
* The system requires different computers for auto and manual transmissions. If you want to change over, too bad--you have to buy a new computer and a kick-down linkage.
* The MPI system comes with an electronic ignition, which includes a new coil and distributor.
* The coolant sensor must be relocated if the A/C idler pulley bracket is in the way.
* The MPI system makes it more difficult to reach the intake bolts.
* The instructions show the computer mounted differently than what was possible for our CJ. We turned it 90 degrees to fit it in the space recommended on the firewall.
* You must use the valve cover fitting provided instead of the PCV. If it doesn't mount easily, then cut a grommet to fit the hole.
* The kit does not come with enough fuel line.
* It's hard to make the stainless steel fuel rails fit well under the intake manifold.
* It helps to have pictures of an installed system.
* The output of the fuel pump is larger than the input for the fuel lines. We needed to install a reducer on the pump.
* The intake manifold vacuum connections need to be moved around to clear the brake booster.
* We didn't need it, but the kit comes with a new windshield washer bottle. * You may need to relocate the horn to install the new intake system and filter.
Test:
* The engine starts quickly with the MPI system.
* The computer needs about 70 miles to get acquainted with your Jeep.
* You can check for trouble codes with the check engine light.
* The engine is much more responsive and faster than stock.
* The system works flawlessly on inclines/declines, rough surfaces and varying altitudes.
* The engine knocks without high-octane fuel.
* The throttle is a little touchy; we may install a heavier throttle return spring.
* Since the new thermostat runs the engine at 195 degrees, we noticed some new burning smells for a short time.
* For dramatic elevation changes, turn off the ignition and disconnect the battery for a few minutes so the computer can adjust itself.
Extra Info:
Price: $2,099.95 for the kit; the required dampener is an additional $199.95
Calls to Helpline: Eight
Install Time: 22 hours
On- and off-road mileage: 11 mpg