TJ 4.0 engine replacement

[alejad]

Hey guys, I’m back with more issues now either my head gasket is blown and or my head is cracked. (My oil is over full, very milky, and I am missing a lot of coolant. I’m fairly certain) Regardless I’ve decided the smartest option is swap out my engine for a replacement with known mileage. Is there anything I should look out for to make sure the new 4.0 is compatible? I have a 2000 wrangler Sahara with the alternator near the top left. Can I buy any 4.0 off of a tj and convert it with parts from my tj to work in any case? Thank you!

 

[Chris]

See here: 4.0 Cylinder Block Interchangeability

 

[alejad]

Thank you! I just checked it out. It didn’t say explicitly that 2000 TJ - 2000+ Tj engines were swappable but it seems like it implied that all 2000+ TJ’s have the same block.

 

[tr21triton]

I'm not understanding ! Why not just replace the head with a TUPY and new gasket ? Is there something else going on with it ? high mileage or some other mechanical issues maybe ?

 

[jwilkinson01]

I have a 2000 Sahara and I used an engine from a 2004. I got mine from Baseline 4x4. You can put in your info on their website and they will show you compatible engines, so even if you don't buy from them, maybe that will let you know which ones will work. They were good to work with and I would use them again if I needed to and have no problem recommending them to others.

Having done this, it isn't a small task, not complicated, just take lots of pics as you go, label everything - masking tape on wires, bolts in baggies. But it is a lot of work, especially for one person alone.

A new head and gasket is a lot cheaper and a lot less work, although trying to get that heavy ass bastard of a head off and back on is still no easy task.