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Description
About the 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ 4.0L Engine
Experience the power and performance of the 1998 Jeep Cherokee Classic XJ 4×4 4.0L Engine at a budget-friendly price point. This robust engine is sourced from a 1998 XJ donor vehicle and is designed to deliver exceptional off-road capabilities, making it the perfect choice for adventure seekers, XJ restorers, and outdoor enthusiasts. With its 190 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque, this engine ensures a smooth and powerful ride for trail use, daily driving, and light hauling.
Important Note: This listing is for the engine only, not the complete 1998 Jeep Cherokee vehicle. The page title references the “1998 XJ” because the engine is sourced specifically from a 1998 XJ donor, providing the exact-year match desirable for 1998 XJ repower projects.
1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ 4.0L Engine Specifics
The 1998 Jeep Cherokee Classic XJ 4×4 4.0L Engine is a high-performance Inline-6 cylinder engine. It boasts a displacement of 4.0 liters (242 cu in) and 190 horsepower at 4,600 RPM. The engine features a cast iron block and cast iron cylinder head, with sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPFI). Originally paired with the AW4 4-speed automatic transmission in most 1998 XJ Cherokees, this engine spent its life in 4×4 service.
Why a 1998 Donor Specifically?
The 1998 model year of the Jeep Cherokee XJ falls within the “sweet spot” of HO 4.0 production:
- OBD-II compliant (1996+ engines required for OBD-II diagnostic compatibility)
- Pre-0331 head casting (the 0331 problematic head emerged in 2000-2001; 1998 used the earlier 7120 casting which is significantly more crack-resistant)
- Refined HO architecture (the HO platform had been mature since 1991, all early-issue refinements done by 1998)
- Pre-electronic-throttle (still uses simpler mechanical throttle linkage)
- Strong aftermarket support (1998 is in the heart of the XJ enthusiast era)
Compatible Vehicles
This 1998-sourced 4.0L Engine is specifically suited for the 1998 Jeep Cherokee Classic XJ, but cross-fits other applications with similar specifications:
- Jeep Cherokee XJ: 1996 to 2001 (OBD-II era, direct cross-fit)
- Jeep Wrangler TJ: 1997 to 2006 (different intake manifold orientation, easily swapped)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ: 1996 to 1998 (OBD-II era ZJ)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ: 1999 to 2004 (with appropriate ECU calibration)
Please verify your year and model before purchasing. Cross-installation between Renix-era (1987-1990) and HO-era (1991+) requires harness and ECU changes; this 1998-sourced engine is HO-era and compatible with HO-era applications only.
Key Features
The 1998 Jeep Cherokee Classic XJ 4×4 4.0L Engine is renowned for its durability and reliability. Key features include:
1. High-Performance: With 190 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, this engine delivers solid performance suitable for off-road driving, daily use, and light towing. The torque-rich character makes it ideal for low-speed crawling and trail work.
2. Fuel Efficiency: Despite its 4.0L displacement, the engine is designed to be reasonably fuel-efficient, making it a cost-effective choice for long-term ownership. 1998 XJ Cherokee with 4.0 typically delivers 16 to 19 mpg city / 20 to 23 mpg highway.
3. Durability: The cast iron block and cast iron cylinder head construction contribute to legendary durability. Properly maintained 4.0 engines routinely log 300,000+ miles. The 1998 vintage uses the earlier 7120 head casting that pre-dates the 0331 casting crack issue.
4. Off-Road Capabilities: Originally installed in a 4×4 1998 XJ Cherokee, this engine has the performance characteristics ideal for off-road adventures. The torque-rich Inline-6 character is exactly what’s needed for rock crawling, trail driving, and overland use.
5. Easy Installation: Designed to fit seamlessly into any 1996-2001 XJ Cherokee, with cross-fit potential to TJ Wrangler and ZJ Grand Cherokee with appropriate intake manifold orientation. This makes it a convenient choice for vehicle owners doing direct repower or modest swap projects.
6. Pre-0331 Head Casting Advantage: The 1998 vintage uses the earlier 7120 cylinder head casting, predating the 0331 casting that became known for cracking issues in 2000-2001 production. This is a meaningful selection criterion for buyers wanting reduced long-term head-crack risk.
Use Cases
This 1998 XJ 4.0 engine is ideal for:
- 1998 XJ Cherokee owners wanting an exact-year repower for their original Cherokee
- HO-era 4.0 builders seeking the 7120 head casting to avoid the 0331 crack issue
- Wrangler TJ / Grand Cherokee ZJ owners doing budget repowers with the cross-fit 1998 engine
- Off-road builders sourcing a known-good HO 4.0 starting point at a budget price
- Restoration projects requiring period-correct 1998-vintage hardware
Comparison: Year-Specific Donor vs Multi-Year Main Listing
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| This Listing (vaz70, $800) | Main Jeep 4.0 Listing (vaz69, $1,999) |
| 1998 XJ donor specifically | Multi-year (1991 to 2006) availability |
| Lower price point ($800) | Premium price ($1,999) |
| 7120 head casting (pre-0331) | Variable casting based on year selected |
| Engine-only listing, basic inspection | Full compression test, comprehensive inspection paperwork |
| Best for: 1998 exact-match repower, budget builds | Best for: Detailed-spec buyers, comprehensive documentation needs |
Drive 1998 XJ Vintage Energy
Experience the thrill of off-road driving with the 1998 Jeep Cherokee Classic XJ 4×4 4.0L Engine Motor. Its power, performance, and durability make it a valuable addition to your XJ, ensuring an unforgettable driving experience characteristic of Jeep’s legendary “Immortal Six.”
What Is Included, What Is Not Included
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| INCLUDED | Engine assembly: cast iron block, crank, rods, pistons, camshaft and lifters, cast iron cylinder head with 7120 casting, valve train, oil pan, valve cover, intake manifold (typical), exhaust manifold (typical). |
| NOT INCLUDED | ECU and harness (sold separately, must be 1996-2001 OBD-II compatible), throttle body, alternator, starter, A/C compressor, power steering pump, water pump, thermostat, flexplate (auto) or flywheel (manual), motor mounts, distributor, complete vehicle (this is engine only, not the complete 1998 Cherokee). |
| Fluids | Drained before shipping. Refill with 10W-30 motor oil. Regular unleaded 87 octane fuel acceptable. |
| Core Note | No core charge. You are not required to return your old engine. |
Vehicle Compatibility
This 1998-sourced 4.0L engine fits the following vehicles:
| Vehicle | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee XJ (1996 to 2001) | Direct OBD-II fit, exact-year match for 1998 XJ |
| Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997 to 2006) | Cross-fit with appropriate intake manifold orientation |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ (1996 to 1998) | OBD-II era, cross-fit with appropriate harness |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ (1999 to 2004) | Cross-fit with appropriate ECU calibration |
NOT compatible without significant modification: pre-1996 vehicles (Renix era), vehicles with different transmission interface, non-Jeep applications.
Condition and Inspection
This 1998 XJ 4.0 engine is sourced from a vintage 1998 Cherokee donor and inspected before shipping:
- Visual inspection of block, head, and oil galleries
- Cylinder head casting code documented (7120 era, pre-0331 problematic casting)
- 1998 donor authentication via casting numbers and head stamp
- Visible damage and disclosed cosmetic condition documented
- Donor application photographed (1998 XJ origin)
This is positioned as a vintage donor variant rather than a fully-documented and compression-tested premium core. For complete inspection paperwork including compression results across all 6 cylinders, see our Jeep Cherokee 4.0 Engine for Sale (vaz69) at $1,999.
Why Buy From Vaz Auto Solutions
- 1998 XJ donor sourced for exact-year match
- 7120 head casting documented (pre-0331 era, lower crack risk)
- Visual inspection completed before shipping
- Cross-link to comprehensive main listing (vaz69) for buyers wanting full inspection paperwork
- Free freight pallet to all 50 states, no hidden fees
- No core charge, keep your old engine
- 15 day replacement warranty on manufacturing defects
- Jeep XJ / TJ experienced support team on the phone
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