92 XJ Engine swap

[hankdz]

I have a 92 XJ with 213,000 miles. It is still running great, no smoke, no skips, no tappet noises; however, I anticipate it will need major engine work in the next 50,000 miles or so, unless someone knows why that isn't so.
My thought is to replace the stock 4 liter gas with a Diesel. Many questions surface when that thought comes up.
What engine?
What other mods? Transmission? Electric system/starting mods? Extra battery? What else?
Anyone have any ideas besides "Don't do it?" So far that's the only thing I've heard from close friends and family. They might be right but I would like to explore the idea.

 

[mujaman]

well... i know its not what you want to hear, but don't do it.


if your engine is running fine now... there really isn't any reason to suspect major engine work in the near future. keep up on your regular maintenance and you'll get another 100k out of it. even if it does die in the next 50, you'd be better off buying another used cherokee (or maybe even a used liberty with the CRD... if you're set on the diesel jeep route) than trying to go through the hassle of putting a completely new engine and drivetrain in.

 

[Bounty__Hunter]

Cummins 4BT, very common diesel engine. Can be found in bread trucks and backhoes.