Been about a year since I've been in the jeep game, and I'm going to be getting an 87 MJ with no drivetrain at all in it right now. Was originally a renix/peugeot standard tranny (2x4). Owner has already swapped in a HP Dana 30 in the front. I'd like to install a mid 90's OBDI 4.0 and an AX15 into it. What all will I need for the swap. The complete wiring harness from the donor obviously, what about gauge cluster, steering column, etc?

 

Anybody?

 

Just fyi, it's pretty hit and miss trying to get help here on the weekend. A lot of the knowable guys are either out wheeling or wrenching on their own jeeps.

 

Im guessing your MJ has the idiot lights, Id probably swap to a newer panel with guages, I believe you will have to change the sensors. It almost seems like you will be taking most of an XJ and swapping it to the MJ. Never done it myself but I looked into buying an MJ and doing the same thing and nearly did but couldnt find a manual transmission that wasnt a Peugeot.

Also I wish you luck with the Manual Transmission, Ive seen 3 XJs in my life/craigslist with a manual. But Im in Wisconsin.

 

I know of a few in a yard here in PA, at least as of a year or so ago. I'm only going with the manual because that's what the MJ originally was, and I think it'll be easier to swap that in

 

It would be much easier to swap the engine in and use the Renix system. Something to be aware of.

Cruiser’s HO into Renix Swap

This swap is easier than some will lead you to believe, generally those who have never done it. Those of us who have done it, like myself, will share with you the things that need to be done for a successful swap. Just think of it as swapping in a long block.

The HO and Renix have some differences but none that can’t be overcome very easily.

Any HO engine from an XJ or ZJ through 1999 can be used. One running change was that the rear of the head was no longer drilled and tapped for the temperature gauge sender beginning in the 96 model year. The sender can be relocated to the threaded hole in the thermostat housing taken from the HO engine. You’ll have to extend the wire to that location. Some brave souls even drill and tap the HO head for the sender.

You will be using the intake and exhaust manifolds from your Renix, along with all your sensors and wiring. Since the intake ports of the HO are slightly different, you use the Renix gasket. Exhaust ports are identical.
You will need to use your Renix distributor as it is different than the HO because they use different fuel management systems. The flywheel or flexplate from the Renix must be used so your CPS gets the correct signals. The valve cover from the Renix allows you to keep your CCV system intact and requires no modifications.

The HO block will have a plug in the coolant galley on the driver’s side of the block, closest to the front, which needs to be removed so your Coolant Temp Sensor can be installed in it’s place just as it is on the Renix. It requires a 5/16” square drive or a modified 3/8” drive that has been ground down to fit. Do this before installing the engine.

As for the knock sensor, which is located just above the oil pan on the driver’s side of the engine about mid way, all the blocks I’ve seen are threaded for it. If not, I’ve heard they may be drilled but not tapped. Tap the hole if that’s the case.


Revised 03/28/13

 

Why do you say that? Just asking, if there is no engine or wiring harness at all wouldn't it be the same to put in an HO setup?

 

I didn't seem to think there was no wiring harness in the 87...Did I miss something?

 

just swap in a 5.3l

 

I'd love to, but I can get a 4.0/ax15 for really cheap around here