ducter

Hello, I am looking for some guidance here from you all. I just bought this Jeep a few weeks ago with limited finances, actually I sold my Mustang that I had some money put into to pay the bills as works been slow for a while now and the bills keep coming, anyways, the cash I had left over I picked up this Jeep knowing it needed cosmetic work but was under the impression mechanically it was sound. Cosmetics arent a big deal to me as I can paint and do repairs myself, on my own time...fast forward about 20 miles and few weeks later to my current situation.

Thought it needed a dampener as it was making that squeaking noise that sounds like the rubber is going out..that wasnt the case. You can see my post here and see the end result. Its not the bearings or the thrust but actually the crank, from what I have been told it makes no sense to pull the motor and replace the crank as the cost associated with it might as well replace the motor. That brings me to where I am now;

1. paid 1500 for the Jeep
2. can get rebuilt motor for 1450, old motor removed, new installed for additional 600
3. I see used motors on E-BAY for 600+
4. JY are same prices, but none really local
5. sell it for maybe 5-600 and take 1000 dollar loss but would still need a vehicle

I am not a mechanic by any means, but can swap parts and have done transmissions, clutches etc. For those that have pulled the motor is it a real job on these jeeps? Think this is a job a first timer could do? Any guides anywhere or snags to be aware off? I am thinking of doing it myself as I just dont have the funds right now, hell cant buy the motor till my tax return comes in. It just looks IMHO like a good motor to try myself on. I would need a hoist, but I have a pretty good collection of tools, both hand and air. Also it looks like any motor from 91-95 would drop right in?

thanks for any info you can provide me.

jmu427

If you can swap transmissions and clutches, then you probably have the skills to get it done. My XJ engine was the first engine pull that I had done. I took plenty of time, had a few friends help and had access to a forklift, so it really went pretty smoothly. I don't recall needing any special tools. Just take your time, mark all the connections, bag the hardware and take pictures along the way as it will save a lot of headaches.

Check Craigslist for engines and parts cars. I've found several parts cars under $500 with good engines. You need to find an HO engine what ever route you take.