like i said in the title it has probably been asked a lot, but i want to convert mine. i have read up a lot on it but there's questions i still have. to start off i have a donor transfer case, front axle, transmission, and drive shafts. i have a few questions.

1) what other major parts will i need?
2) i will have to change the transmission right?
3) is the rear axle on the 4x2 the same as the 4x4?
4) is the frame set up for the 4x4 even on the 4x2?
5) would it be easier and worth the extra couple hundred just for the 4x4 frame?

 

Well I'm not exactly an expert but here goes...the tranny will need swapped(2 wheel trannys won't fit a tcase). The rear axle should be the same. Nothin really changes back there between the 2 wheel and 4 wheel. There is no real "frame" to swap out so the one you got will have to work unless you want to buy another xj that is 4x4

 

You are probably best off finding a complete donor vehicle. Even with the best planning, odds and ends will be forgotten. Just use what you need from the 4x4 and sell what's left.

 

no difference in the "frame" on the 2......dont forget you need the t-case linkage also.

and make sure the gear ratio in your new front axle and the rear in your jeep match. alot of 2wd came with 4.10 rear ends.

honestly, i would sell the 2wd and buy a 4x4. these things are dirt cheap these days and the swap is alot of work. unless your one of those guys that is attatched to your jeep....then by all means, swap away.

 

the only problem with me is i am 17 just spent my only 2 grand saved up for a car on this one its in beautiful condition no rust southern vehicle and up here in ny people want so much for a quality 4x4 so i found a full titleless one that i could use a full donor so im thinking just a body swap now that i found that?

 

It really is a pretty easy swap. The main thing to make sure of, is that your front axle gears match your rear axle gears. Also make sure you get both driveshafts out of the donor vehicle, as well as all the ****ing linkage from the transfer case. Your transmission crossmember will still work, and everything will bolt right up, if using all similar years xj parts, no custom modification will be needed. If you have ANY questions big or small during the swap, do not hesitate to send me a PM.

 

the donor is a 96 cherokee sport and mine is a 97 cherokee sport close enough right?

 

While you're swapping parts get a z-link t-case shifter from Novak and get rid of that factory mess .

 

how much will that run me?

 

i have 1 more question

will a t case both axels ect from a 2000 cherokee work on my 97 cherokee sport?

 

can anyone answer this?

 

It should. The only major changes were cosmetic except for the Last generation 4.0 engine. The drive line SHOULD be the same.