OK, so I overheated my '96 XJ so bad it cooked the short block. #2 cylinder has only 20 lbs of compression and the walls are scratched to hell. Guess the rings are broken. #3 only has 40lbs, and I'm pretty sure the block is warped; it keeps blowing the head gasket between #s 3 and 4.

I can get a new '96 short block (pn 4798788) for $2,158.20. I can get a new '97 short block (pn 4883025) though, for $1,716.15. $440 would be a big savings, if it will work.

Will the '97 short block bolt in? Is everything the same?

Thanks,

 

im running a 1999 engine in my 1994 the biggest difference I found was there was no hole in the 1999 head to put my coolant temp for my gauge so I drilled and tapped the thermostat housing and moved it to there I am not sure of any differences in the short block other than the grind of the camshaft

 

All XJ 4.0 blocks from 91-01 interchange.

 

Any 1990-2001 XJ Cherokee or 1993-98 ZJ Grand Cherokee 4.0 L engine block will interchange.
You can try finding a grade A used one that might cost $200 to $400, plus shipping.
try www.car-part.com and search all regions.