FarmHand10.0

So I recently aquired my first Jeep ('98 Cherokee). For a full year I looked for a manual Cherokee in my price range, but ended up with an automatic because I wanted a Jeep desperately and couldn't wait any longer for transportaion. Seeing as my finances have increased, I was wondering if it is possible to convert an auto 98 to manual. I'm not very familiar with Jeep's, but I know other makes, such as older Fords, have a part in the engine which makes it basically impossible to convert it, but that part is not a problem when converting from stick to auto.

Does anyone know if it is possible for me to get the parts to convert my Jeep? I'd much prefer converting it over buying a new one. Disregarding this minor setback, I otherwise love my Jeep. Bought it cheap from a fellow who was moving out of state. 70k miles, everything works, no bumps dents or scratches. Tires are a little worn down, but I plan to get new ones after lifting it this summer.

Any help regarding the convertion would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

solderjunkie

The salvage yard is your friend... especially a you-pull-it yard.

If it is a 2wd and you want 4wd, now is the time to do it.

You need: transmission, flywheel, clutch and pressure plate, crossmember, shifter, driveshaft(s), console, pedal assembly w/clutch, clutch master cylinder, clutch hydraulic line, clutch slave cylinder.

New parts to buy: pilot bushing for the back of the crankshaft, new clutch disc, new release bearing, front and rear seals for the transmission.

OnlyInMyXJ22

Yes, you can get the parts to convert your XJ.

BlueXJ

As mentioned it can be done. Don't forget the pedal assembly while scrounging parts. You will need to check the crank for the pilot bearing size and I would try to find a NV3550 or better tranny.

mike37

to much work you could by one with a stick and save yourself the headaches

unless there is something special about your existing Cherokee

solderjunkie

People told me the same thing about my 4x4 conversion.

There is something special about my XJ... it was $125 and it's a two-door.

FarmHand10.0

Well, there aren't any manuals around (my older brother actually totaled his, the only one within probably 25 miles), and more importantly, this is a 98 with only 70,000 miles. Runs brilliantly, the whole nine yards.

jinx

do you plan on using your brothers parts? would be fairly strait forward. just swap all the parts over.

FarmHand10.0

No, unfortunately he totaled his about two or three years ago, into the back of a Buick. It's been gone for a long time. Hopefully I can find some of these parts in a junk yard.

solderjunkie

Where are you???

(you never filled-out your profile... )

There is a five-speed 2wd here in Nashville at Pull-a-Part that's pretty complete.

Is yours 4wd or 2wd?

mike37

yes its doable
but how cost and time effective it is depends on how good a deal you got on parts and ho well setup you are on tools

FarmHand10.0

TN is a little far away for me. I am in PA. Krumstown to be specific

Dan4governor

you really should consider just buying a different jeep with a manual tranny. Yes its possible, but you'll spend an arm and a leg on parts, and if you're junk yard shopping you are going to get a lot of weathered and rusted parts with who knows how many miles on them or how long they will work for. To buy new parts is more expensive than a new car.
My opinion just search around a while for a good deal to buy one, then transplant whatever is special about your jeep and sell it. You won't end up spending that much money, and you won't have to do any work.