Starter design change?
 

Quick question. My buddy just had his starter die on him and he has to replace it. He drives a 1999 2wd XJ.

I just bought a starter for my 1992 4wd XJ and it was rather cheap. Like $65 I think.

Prices online for a 99 starter are significantly higher than what I bought.

Was there a design change in the starters somewhere during production? I thought XJ Jeeps were all relatively identical???

Would my 92 starter fit in his 99?

The Delco starter x-reference says the same model fits 1987-1998. 1999 is a different P/N. I have no idea what the difference is.

Yes, it fits. Connectors are different. Super easy to do.

What connectors? Are the bolt brackets the same?
What changes would have to be made to use the older style starter? The goal here is obviously to cut down cost.

It bolts right in. What you need to do will be very obvious.

Being that I'm asking on behalf of a friend, and it would be his financial burden, I'm sure he would feel more secure with committing to the purchase of the older style starter if I gave him the specific modifications needed to ensure it works. Any chance you could tell me the change that would be obvious please sir?

The wiring connectors.