1234ok

Can I replace the rod and main bearings while still in the jeep

wingless

Welcome to the forum.

This reply details the ONLY way to remove the 5.2L oil pan while the engine is in the vehicle.

IMO swapping rod and main bearings are major steps of an engine rebuild and both the difficulty and the end result will have better outcomes w/ the engine removed from the vehicle.

It is "easy" enough to remove and replace the engine.

There are many items that should be addressed during that service. Some are: timing chain / gears replacement; intake plenum gasket rework / replacement; spark plug routing per TSB, motor mount replacement, removing freeze plugs and scraping internal water passages plus gasket and seal replacement.

Note that Miller 6635 tool is required for replacing the timing chain cover.

The most difficult step is replacing the rear exhaust pipe flange bolt, from the manifold to the wye pipe.