4.0L engine compatability for 1998 XJ?

Ok. I know this has been discussed many, many times but I'm not aware of anyone that has compared all the different 4.0L blocks and determined exactly which 4.0L are compatable. I have a 1998 XJ 4.0L with a bad motor. I have a bunch of motors lined up from different years, but all my info tells me I have to use a 1996-1998 XJ 4.0L, 1997-98 TJ or 1996-1998 (early 98) ZJ. These all have the same block, head and crank part numbers.

Here is my question: Has anyone swapped in a 4.0L from a different year / vehicle into a 1996-1998 XJ that did not require modifications?

I'm new to the site. I recently sold my CJ5 that I rebuilt and moved onto a more family orientated project - my XJ. I have owned 2 other stock XJs in the past and I would buy a new one today if they were still made - here, not China.

If your just swapping the block (not the head etc) then you should be able to use any year XJ 4.0 block.

Then if your looking for a completly direct swap then get a complete set-up from a 97-98.

Thinking about it a little more, even a 91-96 should be just about a direct bolt in. With little to no modification... and may be the better way to go so that you get the benifits of the 7120 head.

I've got a line on a 1996 motor with 90,000 miles for $300 that I can't hear run, but the owner says it does or a 1998 with unknown miles but very clean that is still in the vehicle and runs excellent for $350. Decisions, descisions.......Leaning towards the clean, running motor....