Engine falling flat in OD
 

My poor xj has surpassed 260k miles and is in need of a heart transplant. I'm not new to rebuilding engines but I'm new to jeeps. After reading and searching I don't think a Stroker is for me in the XJ. So I'm looking to either buy a short block, or rebuild mine. I've found short blocks for about 700.00. If I have mine machined, head ported....etc the machine shop bill will be close to 700.00. Then I would still have to buy the cam, rod....etc. I don't claim to be the Charlie Daniels of the torque wrench but I get it done.

What performance cam do yall recommend and any other upgrades to get me more power, a lot more, than stock.

Might find this article of use:
http://www.jpmagazine.com/techarticl...x/viewall.html

Or consider spending the $$ on polyester curtains and a redwood deck. ;) Kudos on the stealth Sammy Kershaw reference

I puled the valve cover today, trying to prolong the rebuild as long as possible or until funds are available. It sounds like a stuck lifter. When I start it up it is quite for about 30 seconds, then starts ticking. From using the stethoscope it appears to be near the front cylinder. I would have videoed the engine while running but there was too much noise to here the ticking. I have ran the seafoam and marvel mystery oil through it to no avail.

Here is a video of the valves moving and none appear to be stuck.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c2...psfdf5ddae.jpg

Have you done a compression and leak down check?

Not yet, need a compression tester

I believe this is the cam kit I will run:
http://www.compperformancegroupstore...ode=A6CAMSx4X4

When the time comes I'll have the head decked, port and polished and the valves back cut. Then either buy a larger TB or have this one milled out.