98 XJ 4wd conversion

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Sep 23, 2018 | 12:34 AM

eric_21083

Thread Starter

Newbie

Joined: Sep 2018

Posts: 2

Likes: 0

From: Bakersfield CA

Year: 1998

Model: Cherokee (XJ)

Engine: 4.0L

98 XJ 4wd conversion

I have a 98 Cherokee 2wd automatic that I am trying to convert to 4wd to make it a “real jeep”, I looked for a 2wd on purpose because i know 2wd’s are always babied and mine is a example of that, everything is perfect about it the only thing is the headliner which is a easy fix. I know i have a 8.25 chrysler axle with 3.55 ratio in the back but what is everything that i will need? a new transmission or can i use this same one? and what kind of front axle will i need for the front? i just recently got into Jeeps and any help or advice would be appreciated thank you.

Sep 23, 2018 | 10:04 AM

RockinRonnie

Senior Member

Joined: Jul 2018

Posts: 672

Likes: 28

From: Evart,Mich.

Year: 2001

Model: Cherokee (XJ)

Engine: 4.0

Welcome to the site eric_21083 !
I would maybe look into picking up a complete xj maybe then you would have everything needed the front will be an easy deal trans and transfer still easy but a little more complicated don't forget to post up pics of progress.

Sep 23, 2018 | 01:50 PM

dave1123

Old fart with a wrench

Joined: Nov 2010

Posts: 14,398

Likes: 740

From: Manlius, east of Syracuse, NY

Year: 2000 XJ Sport & WJ Laredo

Model: Grand Cherokee (WJ)

Engine: 4.0L

Can it be done? Yes. Is it easy? NO. Not unless you have a donor vehicle to work with. First of all, you can't just simply bolt the t/case to a 2wd transmission. Then you'll need the center console and shifter linkage from the 4wd donor. The rest is pretty easy IF you have all the parts.

Sep 23, 2018 | 02:23 PM

00t444e

CF Veteran

Joined: Nov 2015

Posts: 3,636

Likes: 469

From: Southern OH

Year: 1997

Model: Cherokee(XJ)

Engine: 4.0

Getting a donor vehicle is the best way to do it.

Sep 24, 2018 | 01:38 PM

5-Speed

::CF Moderator::

Joined: Dec 2016

Posts: 3,540

Likes: 416

From: SoCal

Year: 1987

Model: Cherokee (XJ)

Engine: 4.0

I did the conversion without a donor vehicle. Big pain in the butt sourcing all the little stuff and cost double what it should have. So you got another vote for getting a donor first.