Swap drivetrain from a 01 Cherokee into a 87 Wrangler?

[KJP]

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I have a 1987 Wrangler with the 258 6 cyl. The motor needs to be rebuilt, and the transmission is on its last leg as well. I was just told from a buddy that he has a 2001 Cherokee that was a rollover, that he will sell me for $600.00. Everything on this Cherokee is in great shape (except for the body of course). Question: Can I swap the drivetrain out of the 2001 Cherokee into my 87 Wrangler? If you need more details, let me know what additional information is needed. Thanks in advance!!

 

[Crazy4diesels]

The 01 XJ has a computer which controls the engine and (if automatic) the transmission. You'll need to get all of the computer wiring from the XJ and graft it into the YJ. If the XJ is an automatic and you mate its engine to a standard (or an older non ECM automatic) the computer will probably not be happy. At best you'll probably get some trouble codes - at worst the computer might go into "limp home mode" since it won't ever get any feedback from the transmission. The engine should fit right in, I would think - just watch your crank position sensor - I don't know what years they put them on the bell housing. I don't think the XJ transmission or transfer will work - I don't know for sure... I'd take some measurements first. Too bad the XJ was wrecked. That's the last year they made them. XJ's are modern day's best built cars, almost as legendary as a Dodge Dart. Best of luck - John

 

[Bounty__Hunter]

The transmission and transfer case will work, but the XJ transmission clocks the transfer case lower than the YJ transmission does. The back of the XJ transmission can be redrilled to clock the transfer case up higher.