My 1997 Jeep Cherokee Sport is running very strong at 240,00 miles, but I know I will need to either rebuild it or buy a rebuild someday. I read somewhere on a forum that there were certain year 4.0's that are stronger than others because better parts were used (somewhere in the mid 90's?). Maybe this is folklore. I am thinking on having my 1997 motor rebuilt because I know what has already gone into it. Others suggest buying a Stroker, but I am not sure I trust the rebuild. What are your thoughts? Best year for motors? And should I rebuild or buy a rebuilt? Thanks

 

The 91-99 4.0 was the best in my opinion. Why do you want to rebuild yours if it is working fine? They can last 300K or more.

 

If the jeep body is excellent and you wish to keep it, you can do what the muscle car guys do. Have a fresh bullet ready to put in it when the time comes. Find a good junkyard engine, rebuild it at your leisure, and keep it until such time as you need it. If push comes to shove, you can always sell it.

 

Thanks for the reply. I am looking down the road at a rebuild, but thought to start on the logistics now. It runs quite well and so I will continue to drive it as long as possible, but that all can change.

 

Thanks for the reply. I thought to find a good motor and have it rebuilt, but I am not sure what will be a good motor, particularly if it died and has been sitting in some junkyard. I thought to buy another running 1997 and use it for parts, including the motor for a rebuild.