I acquired a 2001 with a blown motor (all damage is near the bottom of the block) and am picking up a 1996 that was totaled out but has a clean, undamaged engine. Are there parts in the engine bay should I look to retain from the '96 or the '01 during the swap that are better than their equivalent from the other year? I plan to keep the intake manifold from the '01.

Also, any advice regarding this swap that I might be overlooking is very much appreciated!

 

Welcome!

I don't think you'll find anything on a 96 that will be an improvement over a 2001, except the head. 96 was pre-OBDII, and it's a bastard year in some ways.

Check this:

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/che...bility-236512/

 

I love my 96 and have OBDII.

 

Some examination should be done, my 3 x '96 are all OBD2, OP needs to check if he has OBD2 port

'96 bastard parts are electric, but not really engine related

I believe the '96 has the earlier cam profile with 3000RPM max torque...could be wrong about that, it has the bracing in the block and mains

 

Using the 96 head on the 01 will create a problem getting the exhaust manifolds to mate without leaking. You'll need an adapter to put the 01 manifolds on the 96 head. Other than that, you either need to make brackets to hold the coil rail or swap to a Dodge V6 coil and wires. See ksuspension.com

It's obvious you'll need to replace the distributor with the cam sensor drive as well and use all your 01 accessories.