Suggestions for an engine swap for a '94 2 dr. Yukon

[Black Wolf]

I'm interested in what my best option would be for an engine swap for increased gas mileage and torque at a reasonable cost. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[OR VietVet]

I would use a quality reman for replacement, like Jasper engines, and bolt on other new parts like the throttle body, egr valve, belts, hoses...etc. Your are not going to experience much in the "better fuel mileage and torque" unless you do a cam at the same time and Jasper can help with that too when they build it but the mileage may be sacrificed at the same time. Plus, so many other things hinder fuel mileage, like handling and steering and tires...etc. Gearing effects torque as well. That is a very very open ended request you have there but good luck and others will chime in with info. Welcome to the forum.

 

[Black Wolf]

I would use a quality reman for replacement, like Jasper engines, and bolt on other new parts like the throttle body, egr valve, belts, hoses...etc. Your are not going to experience much in the "better fuel mileage and torque" unless you do a cam at the same time and Jasper can help with that too when they build it but the mileage may be sacrificed at the same time. Plus, so many other things hinder fuel mileage, like handling and steering and tires...etc. Gearing effects torque as well. That is a very very open ended request you have there but good luck and others will chime in with info. Welcome to the forum.

Thanks for your reply. I'm definitely no gear head but I love my Yukon. I'm debating on either getting a new Jeep Ecodiesel Wrangler Unlimited or trying to see if I can realistically upgrade my motor on my Yukon. I currently own 2 vehicles. I have a Kia Optima SXL for my daily driver and use my lifted Yukon for hunting, camping and fishing trips into the mountains. I'm also planning on starting a new business where I'll need to tow a kayak trailer back and forth to different mountain lakes. My Yukon currently gets about 8 miles to the gallon, which just isn't practical anymore. I'm pretty sure the Jeep would be more practical but I'm seeing if there is any other options to possibly make my Yukon more practical before I sell it.

 

[OR VietVet]

The Jeep with the diesel would be the better choice and fuel mileage increase with a lifted bigger tire rig, is iffy at best. That is a play around rig and best lift for fun.

 

[Black Wolf]

Here's a little something I found and was considering.

Mash Motors Inc., Wichita, KS | Diesel Conversions

Mash Motors Inc. is the world leader in diesel conversions for Hummers and large SUVs. Contact us today!

mashmotorsinc.com

 

[OR VietVet]

Bear in mind that diesel rigs have beefier frames than a gas engine small block frame because of the torque and how they are typically used, hauling and towing. If I was going to tow, like you said you will be doing, I would get the purpose built rig for that, be it a Jeep, Ford, Dodge or GM product. I have no idea how big the Kayak trailer is you are talking about.

 

[exp500]

8MPG in a tahoe? Somethings wrong. A 454 will do 10-12.
Best smallblock upgrade is vortec heads on 350.

 

[Black Wolf]

8MPG in a tahoe? Somethings wrong. A 454 will do 10-12.
Best smallblock upgrade is vortec heads on 350.

There definitely could be something wrong but I am running Nitto 38"x15.5"x15" Mud Grapplers on a 9" lift which would bring the mileage down for sure

 

[Black Wolf]

Bear in mind that diesel rigs have beefier frames than a gas engine small block frame because of the torque and how they are typically used, hauling and towing. If I was going to tow, like you said you will be doing, I would get the purpose built rig for that, be it a Jeep, Ford, Dodge or GM product. I have no idea how big the Kayak trailer is you are talking about.

It's a custom made kayak trailer and all loaded up probably weighs under 1500lbs

 

[OR VietVet]

That would be a light trailer then. That Jeep could tow that easily, IMO.