We have taken on a new project car at GDL Automotive! The vehicle is a Series 1 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 originally fitted with a 5.7L V8 engine. Unfortunately, the factory engine suffered severe camshaft damage, which led to metal debris circulating throughout the motor. Rather than patching the existing engine, We decided to turn this WK2 into a long term content build, showcasing every stage of its transformation from tired daily driver into a fully modified SRT inspired machine.
The 5.7 V8 engine in the jeep is in rough condition, with a damaged camshaft and bottom end issues. This made the vehicle an ideal candidate for an engine swap. we already had a 6.4L Hemi on hand that had also experienced camshaft damage, but this engine will be fully rebuilt before installation. By choosing the larger displacement Hemi, the car will gain significant power and torque over its original spec.
Planned Modifications
Several upgrades are already locked in for the project:
- An SRT bonnet has been fitted, sourced from previous damaged stock.
- A Series 2 front-end conversion is planned, using a donor vehicle as reference. The biggest challenge in this swap is adapting the headlight wiring to work with the earlier chassis.
- Brembo brakes are ready to be installed, paired with new SRT wheels that offer the clearance required for the larger callipers.
- A Pacemaker exhaust system has been ordered to improve sound and performance.
- A Stage One performance cam is planned for the rebuilt 6.4L
- the WK2 will receive a full series 2 SRT kit and be refinished either in bright red paint or a wrap.
The Series 1 to Series 2 front end swap is not simply a bolt on change. While panels and fittings can be sourced, the wiring for the headlights requires careful adaptation. This highlights how electronic systems in modern cars often become the most difficult part of a modification project.
Power upgrades are only part of the plan. Matching the rebuilt 6.4L with Brembo brakes, an upgraded exhaust, and a Stage One cam ensures that the WK2’s performance gains are matched with braking strength and drivability. A balanced approach like this is critical for safe, reliable results.
The addition of the SRT bonnet, wheels, and eventually a full body kit isn’t just cosmetic. These parts also provide functional improvements in airflow and cooling.
This build is designed to be more than just a project car. It will serve as a dedicated content platform, with each stage of the process documented. We hope to provide value to enthusiasts who want to learn more about engine swaps, performance upgrades, and restoration techniques while also showcasing what is possible with the WK2 platform.
We have a donor car for the Series 2 conversion, a smart, cost effective approach. Genuine components are often difficult or expensive to obtain new, and a donor provides both authenticity and compatibility. The trade off comes in the extra work required to adapt systems like wiring, but it keeps the project viable and cost controlled.
