Hi Scotty!
I have a 2001 Jeep Cherokee Sport automatic. I love this Jeep, I bought while stationed in Germany (it’s a US spec) and brought it home to TX. Last year my original inline 6 overheated, there is a crack in the long block. I decided I’m buying a new engine for it, specifically the Golen stroker engine. What things should I consider upgrading when changing the old engine to a performance engine. I know I should upgrade my water pump and my radiator as well as get new engine mounts, but what else might I be overseeing?
Well the new engine should already come with an upgraded cylinder head. (The 2001 4.0 originally had a head prone to cracking because the casting was too thin between some cylinders.)
Make sure your transmission is up to snuff since the stroker engine will produce more power. Maybe an upgrade to rear discs for more stopping power along with the extra "go" power of the stroker engine. (I did that on my '99 XJ and it made a very noticeable difference - plus I despise working on drum brakes.)
You may be able to get more specific suggestions at a forum devoted to the Jeep XJ such as this one:
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/