Jeepers, I have a question about engine compatibility. I have a 2000 Cherokee 4x4 auto 4.0. The engine is junk and I have access to a 1997 engine for a great price. I realize I have tl swap out the dist. for my cam sensor and get an adapter plate for the exhaust. The questions i have are will there be any running issues? Someone told me there may be an issue because of the cam in 97 engine. Is this true? Im assuming my current PCM will work with the swap. Also, will the intake from the 1997 have to be used or should I stick with the 2000 manifold? Im trying to avoid check engine lights and any sensor compatibility issues because we have emissions testing where I live in Ohio. Has anyone done a swap like this? Any and all info/help would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

i would like to know info on this subject as well I have the same situation

 

There is an excellent sticky on that very subject at the top of the forum.

 

• XJ Cherokee and ZJ Grand Cherokee 4.0L engine blocks interchange.
• 2000+ TJ Wrangler and WJ Grand Cherokee 4.0L engine blocks interchange.
• YJ and 1997-1999 4.0L TJ blocks will interchange in XJ/ZJ
• XJ/ZJ blocks, and the 2000+ TJ/WJ blocks do not interchange without significant modifications.

TJ/WJ 4.0L Engine blocks underwent clean sheet design changes effective in the 1999 WJ Grand and 2000 TJ Wrangler. These blocks are not interchangeable with XJ/ZJ engine blocks. The reason is motor mount bolt holes and belt driven accessory mounting bolt holes are in different locations, or not present at all, TJ/WJ vs. XJ/ZJ.

XJ: “Regular” (not Grand) Cherokees ’84-’01
ZJ: Grand Cherokee ’93-’98 (Gen1)
WJ: Grand Cherokee ’99-’04 (Gen2)
YJ: Wrangler ’87-’95 (Gen1)
TJ: Wrangler ’97-’06 (Gen2)

 

Use the 97 block and head with the manifolds, electronics, wiring and accessories from your 2000.

 

Why is the engine junk?

 

Ports don't match up on the head to manifolds 97 to 2000.

 

Yes I forgot about that, swap the heads too.

 

in a situation where I have a good drive train from 90s xj but body is wrecked and a nice 2000jx but drive train is **** need a link for the motor swap and info would be greatly appreciated