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Advice on MJ-XJ 4x4 Swap Project


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I was going to sell my MJ, got a few offers -but glad I didn't. What I have decided to do is to make it 4x4.

89comanche_sea005.jpg

 

Donor XJ: I have a running 91 Cherokee (engine has 3500 miles) with a Command-Trac Part Time 4WD System and 5 speed manual. It has a bunch of new parts. I'd like to pilfer everything I can from it to make the MJ better, since everything works on it. It has Dana M30/181MM Front Axle. And a 3:07 Chrysler rear end.

 

My 89 MJ has a Renix and AW4 Automatic transmission towing package. The good is that it has a Dana 44/226MM Rear Axle with 3.55 gears, so I want to keep that rear end. The MJ was suddenly having electrical problems and the fog lights/interior lights stopped working.

 

I basically want a 4x4 5 speed manual MJ.

 

What would you move over from the XJ, and what can/can't move over? What am I going to need to pick up etc? The AC on the 91 wokrs so I'd like to bring that over too.

 

I've read some of the conversion threads, and was thinking this might be easier since I already have everything.

 

What do you think?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Thanks 87MJTIM, I completely spaced on that... I found this article on regearing a DANA30 http://www.myjeepxj.com/cherokee-repair/regear/front-regear

 

For the time being I would like to put the labor somewhere else.

 

I would probably be better off finding a 3.55 donor axle.

 

So maybe this build is a two parter? Would you say engine transmission swap first, then later on work on the 4x4 conversion?

 

I've done lots of work on XJ's, but I don't know how to weld/fab. So if I keep it 2wd for time being, the swap should be straight forward right?

 

I don't have a problem pulling the wiring harness, dash, etc. anything I need.

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You could put in the t-case and the D30.  Just don't hook up the drive shaft.  When time and $$ are available, either swap axles with a 3.55 or get the D30/3.07 re-geared.

 

(or leave it 2wd until you find the proper axle.)

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BTW - you will need to add the t-case along with the tranny.  Your old tranny is config'd for 2wd and will not accept a t-case.

 

As for all the electrics, there are numerous write up on the Renix to HO conversion.  Look in the DIY section or do a search on here.

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