What models of cherokee's and years can I swap a 1996 rough country 4.5 onto? Or does it not matter?

Sell it and buy something else

Other than the rear axle possibly being different, it shouldn't matter. If they are different you will need to get the correct U bolts & plates.

Shouldn't be reusing ubolts anyways. They are super cheap just replace anyways.

My uni body is gone, super rusty, I can't even really patch any of my holes in the floor successfully, so that's why I'm asking. If I bought a 98 xj, could I use the rc 4.5 off my 96 and put it on the 98? So your saying year doesn't matter?

A lift fits all years xjs like said only thing different is the rear axle but new u bolts is cheap and easy.

It will fit all models but should it, like above eBay. If the rest of the XJ is that bad how about the kit?

i have the 4.5 rc kit buy a new one you'll be money better spent for the new stuff with all of the right hardware, new bushing, ect