Can I go from a carb to f.i.?

Question:

I have restored a 1982 Dodge Rampage with a 2.2-liter carbureted engine and standard four-speed transmission. I’m not satisfied with the performance of the carburetor. It surges at all speeds, the engine is hard to start when it’s cold, the idle is poor, etc. I’m wondering how hard it would be to install a throttle body fuel injection unit from a later car with the same size engine. Do you know of anyone who has a parts list or instructions?

Answer:

The later 2.2-liter electronic fuel injection systems will readily install on your carbureted 2.2 engine. There were two versions of EFI, the more common single throttle body injection (TBI) and the more efficient multi-port fuel injection. Two different computers that worked together controlled the fuel injection systems. The “Logic Module” controlled ignition timing, fuel mixture, emissions control system components, and the engine idle speed. Using input from the Logic Module, the “Power Module” controlled the functions of the fuel injectors and ignition distributor. Besides the actual injection setups, you will need these computers, the relevant wiring harnesses, and various input components such as knock and oxygen sensors.

You will find the factory shop manual for your 1982 as well as the manual for whatever year injection system you procure very helpful.

You will also benefit from “Chrysler Engine Swapping Tips and Techniques,” by R. M. Clarke. (One in the Hot Rod Technical Library series and available on amazon.com for about $90.)