Commanche Swap 2.8 to 4.0

[family xj]

I know its been done several times.

Here is what I got. Free commanche with a blown 2.8. I believe its an 86. I also got a 4.0 Engine, auto tranny and 231 tcase with the wiring harness for under the hood and dash. I want to swap the engine into the Commanche. I was told its not a direct bolt in. I thought I read the Fire wall is the problem. Can someone educate me on the issues before I even start to do this swap?

Or would I be better off to put a 4.3 into it? Not sure what all it would need to fit in it.

Once I get this done I can start the axle swap.

 

[a_kelley]

I believe it is the firewall..

From http://www.allpar.com/trucks/jeep/cherokee.html

in 1983, 71.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seat down. In 1987, they changed to 71.8, coinciding with the firewall adaptation to make room for the inline 6 engine

motor mount locations are different more likely than not.

wiring will be fun unless you have the body harness too. (but that qualifies for the GM 4.3 swap, and the 4.3 requires lift or custom pan to clear the axle and sit under the hood instead of thru it)


**edit:

better idea 3.4L Camaro engine
http://www.lunghd.com/Tech_Articles/Project_XJ/Project_XJ.htm

 

[paradisePWoffrd]

northstar

 

[snappy]

A buick 3800 super charged motor will bolt up to that tranny and be a sweet setup.