* Reliability: Rotary engines, especially older ones, are known for relatively poor reliability compared to piston engines. The Wrangler is often used in demanding off-road conditions, where engine reliability is paramount. A rotary engine's failure in a remote location would be a significant problem.
* Power Delivery: Rotary engines produce power differently than piston engines. They might not provide the low-end torque needed for effective off-roading, especially at lower RPMs where you need crawling power.
* Fuel Efficiency: Rotary engines are not known for their fuel efficiency, which is already a concern for many Wrangler owners.
* Heat: Rotary engines generate significant heat, which could be problematic in the already warm engine compartment of a Wrangler. Cooling would need significant upgrading.
* Parts Availability and Cost: Finding parts for a rotary engine, especially for a conversion project, can be challenging and expensive.
* Complexity of the Conversion: Swapping an engine, especially one as different as a rotary, is a major undertaking requiring significant mechanical expertise. The cost and effort involved likely outweigh the benefits.
In short, while technically feasible, the challenges and downsides heavily outweigh any potential upsides. Sticking with a more traditional piston engine is a much more sensible approach for a Jeep Wrangler.
