Need to replace my 2002 KJ engine

[sota]

I agree with Celticlady 100% here. Salvage engines and transmissions are a crapshoot - I've put 3 salvage engines in other vehicles and 2 of them failed within a couple of years. I rebuilt the original engine in my Liberty and it failed within 3000 miles - turned out the machine shop I used did not grind the crankshaft straight. Go with an engine rebuilder that specializes in these engines (and understands the valve seat issues) which will give you the best odds of getting something that lasts. I also agree on the local transmission shop - I've had bad luck with buying rebuilt transmissions from outfits that churn them out - probably low paid, unhappy employees who don't care about quality of work. A reputable local shop working on a transmission you know is already fairly healthy sounds like the best way to go.

Also, invest in a complete new set of coolant hoses, new radiator, coolant reservoir cap, thermostat and water pump - I bet the most common reason for "new" engines failing within the first few years is due to an issue with the old cooling system that causes overheating.

And yet I can sit here and tell you stories about "reputable" shops telling people to **** (present company included... F U Jasper...) when it comes to issues with their "rebuilds" within warranty.
Sad fact it, no matter what it's still a crap shoot.

 

[Kingj28]

06. But as I understand it the selinoid bank is common to all of the gas 3.7

My research showed it above the valve body. Depending on your ability, the exhaust may be needed to remove to get to it.

WHen it goes it puts the trans in limp mode. 2nd gear only. I had to go a hours drive at 45 to get home.

I would still keep your liberty. You got a lot of good $$ in other maintenance done. I would not put a salvage engine or trans in it. Get the low end rebuilt at your local transmission shop. You are most of the way there pulling the engine. Just drive it for the next 5-10 years.

You may want to insure it with Hagerty to cover actual value to you vs blue book

I have an 02 with the 45rfe trans, your trans is totally different.

 

[Kingj28]

Has anyone used these guys for engines before https://jeeppartsdepot.com/collecti...-2002-2012-dodge-ram-1?variant=31972045979709 , they are local to me and seem to know the difference between 02-03 and 04-12 engines.

 

[Shankster]

Has anyone used these guys for engines before https://jeeppartsdepot.com/collecti...-2002-2012-dodge-ram-1?variant=31972045979709 , they are local to me and seem to know the difference between 02-03 and 04-12 engines.

I have not, but they're saying all the things I'd want to hear when buying an engine, and the price is right, as long as you have a good core to give them. The only thing I don't like is the rather stingy 3 month warranty. I'd search for reviews on independent review sites and if those look good I'd pull the trigger. I guess you could start a new thread with the business name in the title and hopefully get some input here - there must be some folks on here who have used them.