2 questions 1 thread, please advise.
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,172
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From: The Republic of TEXAS
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L HO
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 896
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From: Phoenix, A-to-Z
Year: 1988
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
CF Veteran
Joined: Apr 2009
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Year: 2015, 2012
Model: Grand Cherokee (WK2)
Engine: 3.6L
I'm old school and we did not confuse the head with the block.
A "long block" is simply referring to the head and block assembled together. The term is generally only used during an engine rebuild and installation.
For example, if your head had a crack in it, you would not say "My long block is cracked."
A "long block" is simply referring to the head and block assembled together. The term is generally only used during an engine rebuild and installation.
For example, if your head had a crack in it, you would not say "My long block is cracked."
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,172
Likes: 17
From: The Republic of TEXAS
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L HO
.....and most re-man motors can be purchased as either a "short" block or a "long" block re-man motor......"long" block includes the head(s).
The XJ stat is in the head, not in the block.
The XJ stat is in the head, not in the block.
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 8,172
Likes: 17
From: The Republic of TEXAS
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L HO
Maybe someone spent extra for specialty head(s) that r still in great shape and don't want to spend more money on something they don't need. There r other valid opinions/options besides yours out there.
Seasoned Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 340
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From: Indiana
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
To alleviate some of the arguing, here is what Stant recommends.......
How do you test a thermostat?
A thermostat can be tested by threading a string through the valve and suspending it in a bucket of boiling 50/50 coolant and water. Immerse the thermostat in the hot/boiling coolant mixture for a few minutes; if the thermostat is working, it will fall off the string as it starts to open. Remove the thermostat. After allowing it to cool, the thermostat should close.
.........from their website so there is your answer.
How do you test a thermostat?
A thermostat can be tested by threading a string through the valve and suspending it in a bucket of boiling 50/50 coolant and water. Immerse the thermostat in the hot/boiling coolant mixture for a few minutes; if the thermostat is working, it will fall off the string as it starts to open. Remove the thermostat. After allowing it to cool, the thermostat should close.
.........from their website so there is your answer.
Seasoned Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 340
Likes: 0
From: Indiana
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
I doubt that most people that know what a "short block" is would stick an old/non rebuilt head head onto a fresh block and call it a day. I agree, that would be asking for trouble.
Seasoned Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 340
Likes: 0
From: Indiana
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
I'm not sure I understand the pissing match in this thread.
And once again so there is no confusion.......the thermostat in this application is located on the head.......which is attached to the block......which in combination is commonly referred to as the "long block".......which means that everyone gets a blue ribbon!!!!!!!!! Great job!!!!!!!!!
But in all fairness though, I have only heard "short block" and "long block" used prior to assembly, not after. Not sure if it matters, though.
Last edited by LAF1269; Nov 22, 2014 at 12:21 AM.


