1 best of : Mopar Launches Modern V-8 Crate Engine Kits for Classic Muscle Cars

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is making Mopar Crate Hemi engine kits available as a factory-backed option for Mopar vehicles from 1975 and earlier. The automaker used the 2016 SEMA Show to reveal new Mopar 345 and 392 Crate Hemi engine kits with factory-spec wiring harnesses and power control modules to help put modern 5.7-liter and 6.4-liter V-8 engines into classic vehicles.

To underscore the point, two classic vehicles were fitted with modern Hemis and other Mopar parts and are on display at this year’s tuner fest put on by the Specialty Equipment Market Association.

They include a 1971 Dodge Challenger with the 392 crate kit for the 6.4-liter V-8, good for 485 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The kit can be paired with older Dodge Challengers and Chargers, Plymouth ‘Cuda, and other makes and models up to the 1975 model year.

Also there is the 1966 Jeep Wrangler CJ66 which has the 345 crate engine kit for the 5.7-liter Hemi, bumping horsepower to 383 and torque to 425 lb-ft.

The kit costs $1,795 and includes a power distribution center, powertrain control module, engine and chassis wiring harnesses, accelerator pedal, O2 sensors, ground jumper, charge air temperature sensor, and instructions. Enthusiasts can order optional front-end accessory kits like power steering or exhaust manifolds. The engines must be 2014 or newer and the kits are designed to work with manual transmissions but can be adapted for an automatic.

There are also a number of accessories from oil pans and filters as add-ons. All are in stock and can be ordered through a dealer or online at Mopar’s website.

For those restoring old cars, FCA has launched http://ift.tt/2f7UxXr as a one-stop resource. Instead of going to swap meets, the site provides information and access to approved Mopar restoration parts licensees and is a source for more than 9,000 parts and accessories for your classic muscle car. Mopar teamed up with Classic Industries which is a licensee of restoration and performance parts. Customers can search parts by licensee name or product category such as exterior or interior trim, sheet metal, grilles, spoilers, bumpers or steering wheels.