How hard is it to upgrade to the newer style of grille on my 89 xj?

 

Well, to flush it all up.. You need the header panel, and newer fenders.
You can use your current fenders, but they are angled at the edge where they meet the header panel.
The headlight connectors are the same, and the front turn signals are as well. But, the newer XJ's actually have 2 connectors for the front turn signals, you can either splice in a 2nd one, or you can use a single one like I am (looks fine). As far as the side turn signals, the older connectors do not fit all the way in, because of how the rubber is in the connectors, but they fit snug with the lenses in place.

 

all right thanks! so would it look weird if i just put the header panel on without getting the newer fenders, how much of a difference is it? ill go raid the junkyard today, and see what i can find

 

it's really not that noticeable with the 89 fenders, but i did grab the 99 fenders too. now to put it all on.

 

If you are really ****, then its a no-go.. It fits fine, just where the header meets the fender on the tops the header is round, and the fender is not. I had that on mine for a long time, before I got my fenders put on it.
As far as the antenna, it mounts differently, on the 97+ so either figure out how to adapt it, or just run without it, I dont listen to the radio, so for now I just have it zip tied to where the fender flare bots to.

Without the newer fenders, the only place that the header panel is connected to is above the rad support with the 5 nuts. It stays secure tho.

 

all right thanks, i might as well get the fenders so it will look flush... i am planning on painting my jeep soon, so i might as well do it all with the new fenders and header panel. Thanks for the help!