re: Jeep wrangler V8 engine conversion. Looking for forum or mechanics referral

You will need a donor tdi engine from 99-03 (alh) or 03.5-05 (bew). The newer the engine the more electrical components but also more power. 2006 is the newest engine I've heard of being swapped.

Wiring harness (from vw) will need work to play nice with dash. There's people online who will build and label a new one.

Adapter kit to mate engine to transmission. You can keep the jeep transfer case but will probably want a slip yoke eliminater for a lift kit. That means new drive shafts as well.

There's some work on the fuel system since diesels don't need as much pressure to retrieve fuel from tank.

You'll need new engine mounts as well since the tdi is smaller than whatever gasser was in there.

Here's some thorough tutorials:

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Most jeeps produce 150hp and 250+ ft tq and get 30+ mpg. That's assuming you aren't running 40" tires and you get it tuned