MJ Spec's?

[AJPTHNG]

I'm looking at picking up a MJ but I have a question that I can't seem to find that I hope someone has an answer too. We all know that the 84-86 XJ came with the 2.8L V6 along with the 86MJ. Now from what I remember the difference between the 86 and 87 XJ/MJ was the nose was slightly longer so they could put the 4.0 into it. Is my memory correct? The reason is I've found 2 1986 MJ's that are in my price range but one has the 2.8 and the other is the 2.5. If I get either one I want to make sure there is enough room to put a 4.0 or 4.3L V6.

[SamuraiMike]

Get the V6 one, I modded a 86 (2.8) and fit the 4.0HO in it.
The engine, Tranny & Transfer case were different, but you can pick up a wrecked Cherokee pretty cheap & it's nearly a bolt in.
The sheetmetal is identical, you just need to trim the radiator header panel and bolt in the one from a 4.0. It solves the radiator issues too.
The 2.8 in the Cherokees & Comanche's did ok, it's very light, run it till it breaks or you find a donor 4.0 HO.
The front sheetmetal & suspension is identical, it's a uni-body front with a massive rear frame & a bed sitting on top. Anyengine swap that works in a XJ will easily work in a MJ.
Feel free to check out mine anytime.

[reeferman]

Check around the steering box for cracks in the "frame", if it doesn't have any put a steering box brace on. I had an 89 4.0 that had thjs problem no one made one at the time so i built it. Mine was a 2x4 had my son an i changed it over to 4x4 in halk a day.

[AKAMC]

Didn't some of the early MJ's come with a D44 option too? Part of the tow package I think...

[AJPTHNG]

the 86's came with a 1 piece AMC 20 and the 87-92 did have a Dana 44, those axles only came in the Metric Ton package.