The 1987 Wrangler was not fuel injected; it relied on carbureted engines. Fuel injection would come later, with the Wrangler lineup adopting electronic fuel delivery in the early 1990s with the introduction of the 4.0-liter inline-six engine and related updates.
Context: the Wrangler’s launch and early powertrains
When Jeep introduced the Wrangler YJ for the 1987 model year, the lineup carried two carbureted engines: a 2.5-liter inline-four and a 4.2-liter inline-six. These engines were paired with conventional carburetors rather than electronic fuel injection (EFI), reflecting the technology and market expectations of the era. The new body styling and improved ride quality helped broaden Wrangler's appeal, but EFI was not part of the initial package.
Before outlining the transition to fuel injection, it helps to know the two core engine options available in the 1987 Wrangler:
- 2.5 L inline-four (carbureted)
- 4.2 L inline-six, commonly known as the 258 (carbureted)
As a result, buyers seeking fuel management innovations in the late 1980s would have to wait for later model years, when Jeep started phasing in the 4.0-liter engine with electronic fuel delivery.
From carburetors to fuel injection: the Wrangler’s EFI shift
The transition to fuel injection in Wranglers occurred in the early 1990s as Jeep updated the powertrain lineup to meet tightening emissions and efficiency standards. The key milestones in this shift include the introduction of the 4.0 L inline-six with electronic fuel injection and subsequent EFI refinements.
- Introduction of the 4.0 L inline-six with electronic fuel injection in the Wrangler YJ lineup during the early 1990s, replacing the older carbureted 4.2 L in many configurations.
- Early EFI on the 4.0 L used throttle-body injection (TBI) in some early applications, with later models adopting multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for improved performance and emissions.
In the years that followed, the 4.0 L engine remained the mainstay of Wrangler power and continued to be refined with improved EFI systems, while the earlier carbureted options were gradually phased out in most trims.
Summary
Bottom line: If you’re looking at a 1987 Wrangler, expect carbureted engines, not fuel injection. The shift to EFI arrived with the early 1990s updates to the Wrangler lineup, driven by the 4.0 L inline-six and evolving fuel-delivery technology.
How much horsepower did the 1987 Wrangler have?
Powertrain
| ENGINE | CYLINDERS | HORSEPOWER |
|---|---|---|
| 4.2L AMC Straight-6 | 6 | 112 hp @ 3,000 RPM |
| 2.5L AMC Straight-4 | 4 | 120 hp @ 5,400 RPM |
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Is the 4.0 inline 6 a good engine?
The Jeep 4.0 inline-six engine is renowned for its exceptional reliability and longevity, often exceeding 200,000–300,000 miles with basic maintenance. Common issues are well-documented and easily addressed with straightforward repairs or upgrades.
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What year did Wranglers get fuel injection?
1991
Starting in 1991, a fuel-injected, 190 hp (142 kW) 4.0-liter AMC 242 variant replaced the AMC 258 straight-six unit.
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What year to avoid Wrangler?
Early JK models (2007-2010) are generally considered years to avoid. These Wranglers suffered from the underpowered 3.8-liter V6 engine, which developed 149 kW. Additionally, early JKs experienced the infamous "death wobble"—a frightening steering vibration at highway speeds.
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