Hello bombers, I am interested in gathering info on doing a diesel swap into a Jeep Cherokee.
I know there are builds out there. However, they already have a specific motor and trans and so on. I am looking at gathering the right info to decide which motor to go with and what trans....etc.

I have a stock 1999 Jeep XJ
I-6/4.0L with 192k miles
Dana 30 and 8.25 for axles with 3.55 gears.
AW4 auto trans.
NP231 transfer case
No lift currently,

I swapped in the 8.25 in place of the Dana 35c (turdy five) Built new bumpers front and rear. Rebuilt front axle; wheel bearings, u-joints, tie rod ends, brakes blah blah blah....

So, on a shoe string budget and a Dana 35c to swap, I am looking on figuring out what to put in this little beast. Do I go with the OM617 or is it the 4bt? Whichever one, then what needs to be done to make it so. Like different transmission, trans adapter etc.

I am a fabricator and mechanically inclined. I have access to numerous pull a parts. I recently found a 1979 om617 locally. However why get it if I don't know what to do with it.
So enough said, can you guys help? Thank you ahead of time for any input and information. Information is priceless.

 

I have it on good account that the turbo engine is the way to go, and you should not turbo the NA engine.

I'd like to do this swap on the GF's Liberty when the V6 croaks. I'll try to adapt the stock 6spd (NSG370). Not concerned about the IFS because it'll get an XJ D30 or a Bronco D44.

The 4BT is a beast, and the Jeep drivetrain won't hold up for long. 3/4-ton stuff at a minimum, IMHO.

 

A few other people have told me the 4bt is the way to go, also. however after looking, the oil pan is gonna take quite a bit of reworking. They are super tough though. I found a 1979 Mercedes, with a OM617. I have heard good things about them too. Either way, no computer needed!

I like the idea of swapping one into your wife's liberty. Does that have a frame or is it a unit body?