98PurpleProject

Hi All

I am new to the forum. I inherited a 98 XJ from my stepfather. This will be a project build with my 2 boys.

It has a recently rebuilt engine, which is a replacement, not original engine. Looking on the passenger side, where the engine mates to the bell housing, I noticed that the steel plate from rear of engine does not completely cover the bell housing. There are gaps above and below the mounting bolt of significant size. Is this to be expected? I have never seen this before. Seems like a lot of dirt, mud and moisture will get in there.

Did the mechanic replace the motor with the correct year? I would assume that the 4L and AW4 combo is so common, he could not have possibly used the wrong engine, but…I would not be surprised. Before I sink a bunch of money into this Jeep, I want to be sure this obvious gap is supposed to be there.

I appreciate the insight.

thanks
Steve

Ricthewrench

Pic bro, Pic. Let's see what you got going on

98PurpleProject

I will send one this morning. I thought I had one on my phone.

98PurpleProject

please see below

lawsoncl

The cover plates aren't perfectly shaped and often get bent a bit causing them to not sit flat around the edge. Not a big deal. I would however look closely at the top and verify that the bellhousing is up tight against the engine and the bellhousing to engine bolts are not loose.

98PurpleProject

Thanks Lawsoncl. So this is not a problem for dirt, salt, water etc.

I want to clean the engine as there is some residual oil in various places from the installation and I want to make sure that no damage will occur.

I will check the other bolts. Thanks.

98PurpleProject

This will be used as a hunting vehicle (I.e. mud and dirt) as well as hitting the mountains during ski season with a lot of road salt along the way.

is it safe to RTV these openings? I can’t see the drivers side. I just feel nervous about it. How does the dirt, salt, etc get cleaned out that gets trapped in the housing?

lawsoncl

It shouldn't hurt to silicon the gaps. There is an intentional gap at the very bottom where water, etc can drain out.

98PurpleProject

Thanks for reassuring me. I got a 98 with no body rust and a new rebuilt engine for $0. Needs floor pans and complete front end - ZJ upgrade and unit bearings. That is about it.

Dave51

My 2000 is exactly the same. Had since 2003, was a lease return. Never noticed it before.