Hello all, I have been searching for a replacement engine for my parts Jeep, 96 Cherokee, and have found very few candidates that were in good running shape and well priced.
I've found a 4.0 from a 1994 Cherokee that comes with a 4x4 AW4 for $400 which seems to be pretty fair.
1. I want to double check that both the engine and transmission would work in a 1996 Cherokee.
2. The engine has been stored under a lean-to without an oil cap or TB for a year which is concerning to me.

The seller has said that it has around 180k miles, no strange noises, no smoke or oil usage, and the transmission shifts fine. He also said that no dirt or water has gotten into the engine which I think it would be near impossible for dirt and dust to not get into it. It is about 2 hours away from me so I want to make sure everything checks out before going to look at it but when I do I will pull the valve cover and spark plugs to look into the cylinders. How concerned would you guys be with it not having an oil cap or TB? Would everything be oily enough to prevent rust? Would it be sufficient to clean off the top end and do a few very early oil changes once it's running?
Worst case scenario could I swap the head from my 96 engine onto this 94 engine?

Thank you for any input!

 

bump

 

I wouldn't be scared of it.