The stock 2.8 V6 isn't going to gain you much, if anything, over the I-4 with which you are familiar. The horsepower was nearly identical. The powerband with the 2.8 is a bit lower than the 2.6, but not much. If you can find a 1st Gen Trooper that has been converted to the 3.4, then you will have something.

The 3.1 Rodeos were a little bit stronger, but if my memory serves, the axle ratios were 4.33 rather than 4.56.

If you can find a Trooper that has had the 2.8 replaced with the 3.4, then you will have something.

Jim Paget
88 YJ with a few changes

www.rrr4x4.com