Hey guys I found a sweet little 2000 xj for $1500 in my area today, has 162k on it but had a NEW engine put in at 150k.
It has bent axles/bearings front and rear because it ran off the road (accident) and hit some rocks.
That doesn't matter as I'll be putting my axles, shafts, trans, and tc under it.
Are these heads of lesser quality, or prone to cracking? That's my only concern thanks guys

Yes the 00-01 head was much more prone to cracking

Like to the point where it wouldn't be worth wheeling or is it only if its overheated?

Only if it over heated really. I love my '01 but blew a head gasket cause my radiator broke and it over heated. Other than that, runs like a champ. I've even put 50k on it. As long as you take care of it and maintain your cooling system, you shouldn't have a problem.

if it's a new engine u should verify what head is on it first.

$1500 for a solid 00 in good shape is a good deal regardless of whether or not it's got the 0331 head. It's not as big a deal as people make it out to be unless you keep driving on it hot. Even if you manage to crack it it's an easy and pretty cheap replacement as far as motor work goes.

Sounds good thanks man

Only issues are like I said axle damage, missing rear driveline, and lower rear quarter dented... But it will be a crawler, and I have every piece it will ever need

Doesn't seem too bad of a deal, I feel like when you start getting into the sub 2k range you are going to get some problems. So as long as you know what is wrong with it might not be worth picking up.

I paid the same price for mine, previous owner was/is a complete jackass and knew nothing and did nothing with it. Couldn't figure out how to get his trunk fixed in two years and it took me 30 minutes to adjust and get working again.

Other than that I have two leaks I need to hunt down and I've been doing maintenance.

I have a 2001 and have zero problems with it. I'd say go for it and don't worry about overheating. I live in South Texas and even when I'm sitting in traffic in 100+ degree weather it doesn't go above 212.

I wouldn't worry.
I used to own a 2000 TJ with the same engine/ same issue.
It overheated several times due to execesive mud in the radiator cells or just hoses blowing off while off roading in FL swamps, never a problem, the only problem I got with that Jeep was that the Alternator voltage regulator kept give me troubles every 6 months, beside fuel consumption that was the only issue I can recall.
Also other thing that some people doesnt like, but I just loved was the fact thet is distrubutor less, never to worry if the engine gets wet.
After 3 years of heavy wheeling I sold my TJ and Bought a 2001 XJ and so far no issues with overheating or cracks.
Good luck.

This. I love my 2000 just make sure the engine is not making any funny noises and the oil pressure is good.

Go for it, I bought my 2001 for $900 not running. Replaced the motor with a 1999 and bought a new radiator, hasn't given me any trouble since

Did You finally bought it?

English much?