87 Jeep Cherokee computer

[maddog]

I found a 87 Jeep Cherokee at the junkyard today that had had a manual transmission in it and I was wondering if the computer out of it would be a good one to have for putting the 4.0 in to my eagle or would it be better to find a later model one.

[eaglefreek]

Depends what year engine you are swapping in and whether you want to use the Renix 87-90, OBDI 91-95 or OBDII electronics. I've heard 91-95 is the easiest swap, but I've never done it.

[maddog]

thanks eaglefreak the jeep that has the computer and harness in it also has the engine in it and it only has a little over 120,000 miles on it and so far the renix ones are the only ones I can find so it may be my only option for getting my car back on the road.

[maddog]

I have another question. what all would have to be swapped out on a renix engine to be able to use the obd 1 computer and harness.

[maddog]

hey can any of you answer my question.

[vangremlin]

I don't fully know the answer to your question but I'll add some things to consider.  You might try checking some of the Jeep forums, they usually have a lot of information and seem to be pretty helpful.  I think one of the issues is adding in a crankshaft position sensor, which I think is done in the bellhousing in the stock configuration.  There is an aftermarket one that can be mounted upfront with the dampener I believe.  Are you planning to do the EFI?  Then you'll probably want the 91-95 intake manifold and injectors.  I don't think the stock Eagle power steering brackets will work with that manifold so you may have to bring the alternator, power steering pump, etc from the renix engine and go with a serpentine set up.  I'm sure there is a lot more involved but that's what comes to mind.  Good luck!

Here is a link that may get you started:

https://comancheclub.com/topic/7235-put-an-obd1-91-95-ho-40l-into-a-40l-renix-87-90-jeep/

[maddog]

thanks vangremlin.

[Taylor]

The only thing I can think of after the ECM Test bypass. Once all the other Eagle computer mess is deleted (I do t think the computer under the cover in the passenger isn't used once the ECM Test bypass is complete), use the entire electric system for the XJ. You might need to use the iXJ instrument cluster too.

[maddog]

I'm not entirely sure mine has the computer under the passenger side cover because mine is a 1980. But once I get this project underway I'll double check my first thing I have to do is build a place for me to do this LOL.

[amcfool1]

hi, if your car is a 1980 model, it does NOT have the computer, or the electronic BBD. good luck, gz
1980 was the last year of the old school carb/manifold setup.