As some of you know, my '98 Cherokee 4.0 recently broke a piston. A co-worker recently wrecked his '01 Cherokee, and if the ins co totals it, he'll have an engine for sale. Is it even feasible to swap his '01 engine to my '98, considering the ignition system differences? Also, the dreaded 0331 head...would my head swap onto his engine? Any info appreciated!

 

Your head will swap

 

Might have to use your head.

XJ Cherokee and ZJ Grand Cherokee 4.0L engine blocks interchange.

2000+ TJ Wrangler and WJ Grand Cherokee 4.0L engine blocks interchange.

XJ/ZJ blocks and 2000+ TJ/WJ blocks do not interchange without significant modifications. (1997-1999 4.0L TJ Wrangler blocks will interchange in XJ/ZJ and visa-versa).

TJ/WJ 4.0L Engine blocks underwent clean sheet design changes effective in the 1999 WJ Grand and 2000 TJ Wrangler. These blocks are not interchangeable with XJ/ZJ engine blocks. The reason is motor mount bolt holes and belt driven accessory mounting bolt holes are in different locations, or not present at all, TJ/WJ vs. XJ/ZJ.

 

So, it sounds like I could use the '01 short block and swap on my '98 head/manifolds. Do I have it right? Also, what about my distributor? Sorry for the ignorance; I've never worked on one with the newer ignition system.

 

Yep. Good to go.

 

Thanks!

 

Well, don't ask me about it again!! LOL.

 

Don't worry, I'll just. Start a new thread in a few. Days asking the same questions.