Although Jeep JK is equipped with the 3.8L powerful beast engine, overtimes consumers might encounter a significant drop in overall performance. Even some Jeep JK owners are always looking for more ways to upgrade the performance and efficiency level.
The good is that the 3.8 Jeep JK engine has a lot of potential for performance upgrades. Especially if you follow the correct techniques to upgrade the right parts, it becomes more powerful to deliver superior riding experiences on every ride.
That is why in today’s article, I have decided to explain the detailed procedures of easy performance upgrade on 3.8 Jeep JK.
Can You Upgrade Performance On 3.8 Jeep JK?
Yes. Anyone can upgrade the relevant parts that ensure more horsepower and torque for better performance on the 3.8 Jeep JK vehicle.
Before you even think of upgrading the performance level on your Jeep, wait a second and think, are you knowledgeable and experienced enough for such technical tasks?
If not, the best solution is to take professional help so that you do not mess up anything that becomes worse at times damage your vehicle’s engine severely in the near future.
When Should You Upgrade Performance On 3.8 Jeep JK?
Before moving on to the details of performance upgrading procedures, first, you need to know and understand the signs or symptoms that will give you clear warnings when your engine requires an upgrade.
So, let’s learn about those warning symptoms to act swiftly-
1. Significant Power Loss, Runs Rough & Unusual Extreme Noise:
The internal combustion engines are responsible for converting fuel into generating power that helps the vehicle to operate. So, when you suddenly notice a drop in overall performance, most likely, your engine requires an upgrade.
Initially, you might notice that your vehicle started to slow down or stop abruptly due to lack of power, and when the power comes again, it tends to jerk back unusually into a motion.
This jerking issue will get worse with time, and you might also lose control on the highway frequently due to this lack of engine power.
Another symptom that will also give you a clear warning to upgrade your engine performance is the unusual, loud, or extreme noises coming from the engine combustion.
So, if you ever notice or hear a new, unusual vibration sensation or sounds such as knocking, tapping, popping, hissing, grinding, or backfiring, make sure to schedule a maintenance service.
Even when the engine initially starts having operating difficulty or runs rough, it’s a sign that you most probably need a performance upgrade.
2. Significant Drop In Gas Mileage:
When you have good gas mileage, that simply indicates a well-conditioned and efficient engine.
But when you notice a significant drop in your gas mileage, it means something is wrong in your system.
Even if the gas tank is turning empty quicker than usual and you had to fill up the gas too frequently than general, it’s time for either servicing your fuel injection or getting an upgrade on your tuning-up system.
3. Engine Stalls Unusually Or Odd Smells Comes From Insight:
No one wants to get stuck in the middle of their journey or fun, but when your vehicle engine gets older, it naturally becomes weaker and causes stalling issues.
A most common indication of a failing or weak engine is when you notice an unusual stalling issue and the stalling becomes more severe with time.
Overtimes, the 3.8 Jeep JK engine might also encounter high stalling problems, and if the engine ever starts to stall unusually, that’s a sign of required upgrade.
Although there can be several key reasons for encountering an extreme level of engine stalling, an upgrade on engine performance definitely reduces the chances of future encounters with such stalling occurrence.
One might also notice an unusual or odd smell when there is a problem with the exhaust stroke and require an upgrade.
How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade Performance On 3.8 Jeep JK?
To calculate the cost of upgrading the performance on the 3.8 Jeep JK, you have to consider two things.
First, you need to consider which parts you need or want to upgrade based on the current condition of your vehicle’s performance. There are several upgrading kits and parts to select from, and each part or upgrading kit is available at both economical and expensive pricing ranges.
So, based on your choice and budget preference, you can select the upgrading parts, tools, or kits.
The second thing is the estimated labor cost, which will vary based on the location of servicing center. The labor cost will also fluctuate based on the level and amount of upgrades your engine requires.
The equation is simple, if the number of upgrading parts increases, it will automatically increase the time and cost of labor.
One might get the performance upgrade done at approximately $1500 to $5000 or more or less based on the need and preference.
However, the good news is that when you are under warranty, you might get some parts replaced or upgraded without paying extra.
My Top Recommendation On 3.8 Jeep JK Performance Upgrade:
Check out the Most Popular Upgrade kits for 3.8 Jeep JK performance up-gradation from our top recommendation.
3. K&N High Performance Air Intake System For 3.8L Engine
This High-Performance Air Intake System for 3.8L Engines (compatible for both 2007-11 Jeep Wrangler JK & Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited) is specially designed to dramatically reduce air flow restriction and improve the engine’s ability to inhale an extended amount of air. Not only that, but this upgrade also ensures a guaranteed power gain by directing the air through the intake tube into the engine’s throttle body. K&N also offers a Million Mile Limited Warranty.
2. Jet Power-Flow TBI Spacer
This throttle body spacer is specially built to boost low to mid-range torque as well as horsepower and improve fuel economy. The innovatively designed bore design of the JET spacer reduces unwanted sounds. That is why it can send the combustion chamber a performance-enhancing air charge without making any loud hissing and whistling noises like other available aftermarket upgrades. Another best thing about the JET Performance Power-Flow Spacer is that you can literally install it within a couple of minutes without even drilling or cutting.
3. JBA Cat4ward Headers
JBA Cat4ward Headers unlock the engine’s power potential and let the engine breathe freely with more power, torque, and even better throttle response. JBA Headers also offer a significant boost up to 10-25 motor’s tire-turning horses, and not to forget, the installation process of this upgrade is also very user-friendly and comfortable.
How to Upgrade Performance On 3.8 Jeep JK?
Now I am going to explain step-by-step procedures of upgrading the tie rod on your Jeep JK. So, all you have to do is just follow my instructions thoroughly and precisely.
- First, you need to locate your engine and identify the model and age of your particular Jeep JK version.
Based on those details, you can upgrade your engine’s current valve cover with a Powdered Metal Valve Cover. - After that, another most commonly used upgrade will be the intake manifold with a Flowmaster Dual Plane Intake Manifold.
- Next, you can upgrade some smaller yet key components, such as adding up the Jeep 3.8 Engine Oil Cooler Kit for better fuel efficiency and longer engine lifespan.
- To keep your engine cool and running more smoothly, you need to upgrade with a Jeep 3.8 Long Tube Header.
These are the major three upgrades that will surely boost the engine performance and efficiency of your 3.8 Jeep JK.
Beside these, you might also upgrade with Cold air intake for Colder or denser air which is better for optimal engine performance. - In case you have a much older Jeep JK model, then an upgrade with a throttle body spacer will enhance the air velocity to improve the vehicle’s fuel atomization.
Conclusion
Well, that’s all one needs to know about upgrading Performance On a 3.8 Jeep JK vehicle. I have summed up everything related to the whole procedure and explained it in a way so that anyone can understand everything. Still, for people, who are not familiar with such technical tasks, they are highly recommended to take the professional help.
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