I'm looking into some used Grand Cherokees (2006-2010). Want to be able to tow thus the V8. Is either one much more reliable? Want reliablity over cool factor.
Re: 4.7L or 5.7L Grand Cherokee? - 09/18/1503:01 AM
I ran a late 90's GC with 4.7 and thought it was a good match for the vehicle. I did tow with it including an open car trailer. Did OK... but the short wheelbase really wants a WD hitch towing 5-6,000# which I didn't have. For lighter trailers would be fine.
As far as the 4.7 itself... seems like it is very sensitive to maintenance. Much more so vs a 5.2/5.9 and 5.7 Hemi. I traded mine at moderate miles and no issues. A used 4.7 would be a question mark. I have since run several 5.7's and two of them >165k miles with minimum issues. I think the Hemi is solid.
Re: 4.7L or 5.7L Grand Cherokee? - 09/21/1502:17 PM
I would have to go Hemi. When I bought my Durango, one of the things I looked for was either a 5.2 or 5.9 engine. Too many horror stories about the 4.7 plus the fact that craigslist is packed with Durangos/Dakotas with bad 4.7s.