98 xj engine question

Steve_Kibbe

Steve_Kibbe

Well-Known Member
Joined
Oct 26, 2005
Location
Spartanburg, SC
I have a 98 xj with 240xxx miles on the stock motor and transmission.

I would like to get a spare motor ready to swap if something happens.

What year motors will work 96-99?

I'd like to stoke if possible.

Would I need to upgrade the transmission with a stroked motor?

Any help/suggestions would be helpful.
 
hey man, XJ fanatic here. 90-01 xj motors will work minus sensors and intakes. 87-89 renix would work too with little changes(toughest and thickest blocks and heads) so you're pretty much in the clear on that. 90s model Grand Cherokees will work too if your weren't using the A/C mount up to 98, you just have to finagle water pump hoses a bit to your radiator other than that they all bold in. I have a 97 xj motor, AW4 and tcase if your still looking to buy or trade on some tires.
 
Truth be told, 87-90 is the Renix era. You CAN use a Renix short block with HO (91 and up) head and intake, but there is no real reason to. The Renix block (not the rotating assembly) is a good foundation for a build. For your needs, and 91-99 4.0 long block will be just fine.
You must make sure that you use the correct water pump (for your model year) on your engine. There are a couple of 4.0 variations due to reverse flow or standard flow since they don't all use the same belt routing and accessory drive. Externally they are the same, but the impellers are different. There is no need to "finagle" if you use the right parts from the start.
As far as strokers go, there is no real need to beef up the AW4 as it is a pretty great tranny in stock form. Like any tranny, keep it cool with clean fluid and you'll be fine.
I've personally built quite a few strokers (I am wrapping a build up as we speak) and will gladly point you in the correct direction.
 
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