Hey everyone new to the forum and so far Im digging it. A couple months ago i purchased an absolutely immaculate 96 2 door 4 cylinder 5 speed transmission cherokee that i absolutely fell in love with... it has 155,000 miles on it going strong. saw it in a mans yard and after not seeing it move for some time i went to him and spoke to see about buying it. he was leery but when i pulled out 1500 cash and offered it to him he thought for about 10 seconds and went and got the title. unfortunately its a 2 wheel drive, which isnt all bad, but i have always told myself i will never own a 2 wheel drive and to this day have stayed true. so i would like to not break the chain and put a 4x4 setup on it and have a few questions. im very mechanically inclined and would have no problem doing the work.. My first question is will the front end out of a grand cherokee work on a cherokee? #2- when i get a transfer case for it, does it matter if it came out of a 4.0 or a 2.5? #3- i have heard that when you do the swap you must change the transmission as well, is that true, and if so which transmission? And finally what is the complete list of parts to break it all down put it together and drive it off? any input and all input is appreciated.. thanks
James Case

 

The nice thing about the Cherokee is that they didn't change anything between the 2wd and 4wd models so u can get a parts jeep and take the parts u need (axle, drive shaft, transfer case etc.) as far as the transmission I don't think u have to change it but I could be wrong. I believe the grand Cherokee front will not work

 

Welcome, do a search, maye 4x2 to 4x4 or 4x4 conversion, there are some good build threads that cover it, with parts needed and tips.

 

welcome to the site any pictures?

 

The Grand Cherokee front axle will fit/work under the Cherokee. That being said, there are obviously many differences in the various years and equipment offered.
As far as the transmission/transfer case issue goes with your 4 cylinder 5-spd set-up, I can't say. You will get more answers if you start another thread in the appropriate section.