I am starting to get ready to convert my 93 ZJ Grand Cherokee to turbo mercedes. I live on the Big Island of Hawaii and both grand cherokees and turbo diesels are cheap and plentiful- and bio diesel is cheaper than "mainland" diesel fuel. The increase in MPG, which should be from 5-10mpg, is well worth the upgrade from the stock 4.0 with over 200k miles on it to date. I have 3 Zjs to make into one, with one a daily driver now. I know where to get the adapter for the trans, probably will have to make my own motormounts- no biggie.

So, on this thread- the real question is- I have a line on two of the om617 turbo diesels cheap. Both run. One I will use for mock up- the other, to build up.

I want a good mix between MPG and power. I would like to have about the same power as the stock 4.0 six that came in the ZJ - about 180-190. I understand that is impossible without some further mods than the turning of a screw here or there.

What is the best route for me to go to get that kind of HP while the engine is on the engine stand- bang for the buck wise?

If i can do it to this:


I will also do it to this: