Well wondering what all would be "different" if I swapped out my tired and leaking engine from my 91' with a much much fresher renix that is for sale on the boards.
I have a aw4 tranny on my 91' and know next to nothing about the renix.

I had some parts that were to go on my existing engine -water pump, thermostat and APN header: not sure if they work on an 88-89 renix.

Can anyone enlighten me concerning issues I would possibly see in the engine swap as well as the pros/cons over the renix?

 

It depends. What year is the engine that you want to put into your 91?

 

88-89 is the year, not sure which

 

As long as your willing to swap your harness it will work fine

 

As far as I know the only big change between RENIX and Chrysler models was the head design, throttle body, and lack of a knock sensor bung. I don't see any big issue with the swap.

 

Chrysler and Renault motors both had knock sensors, his main issue will be the wiring, most of the harnesses should be the same, but not 100%

 

yeah, electrical connections are gonna be different. And I don't think you'll be able to keep that aw4. I think it's because the renix jeeps had a PCM while non renix have an ecu. Correct me if I'm wrong, please

 

Just so were on the same page here, he is talking about doing an engine swap not turning a Chrysler model into a RENIX?...
If all he is doing is a longblock there should not be any major problems?

 

Correct, OP is asking if a Renix era longblock can be swapped into his 91 OBDI XJ.

I know guys are doing HO engines into Renix XJ's but i'm not sure if there's a "gotcha" doing the opposite.

 

My 89' renix is attached to a aw4.

So yea it will work.

 

Renix into a '91 will be fine. Remember to treat it as a long block! Use ALL of the '91's wiring and sensors. There may be a slight difference in the flex plate/flywheel that affects CPS reading so use the '91's as well (can't remember). While the Renix is out get the OFA off and put a proper SAE thread adapter on with some new O-rings.

Pump shouldn't be an issue with the newer accessories. Use the 1991's manifolds and and I believe the combo gasket too. Cruiser54 has this mentioned in one of his writeups somewhere.

And no Chrysler XJ has a knock sensor...