Hatch?

[Pookapotamus]

Tried searching for this but no luck.

Does a 97+ hatch fit on a 96- body??

what mods would be needed to fit it?

[Brasscatz]

It doesn't. I don't know everything that would be needed, but tail lights are definitely shaped different

[4.3LXJ]

Hinges need to be modded too for sure

[Mudderoy]

Doesn't it depend on the 96 if it was first part of the year, or last part?

[Brasscatz]

negative. The body style didnt change early, just some parts

[Pookapotamus]

Don't have stock tail lights.


Having 4WD means getting stuck in more inaccessible places!

[Pookapotamus]

So mod the hinges and tail light cut outs? Other than that it's pretty close?


Having 4WD means getting stuck in more inaccessible places!

[Brasscatz]

I would think so. I don't know the the openings are different in any way or shape. Might be worth trying a trip to the junk yard and playing around with the hatches and do a "mock" swap with their jeeps before you buy. Assuming you could find both body styles in the same yard and had the will to try it...

[Cheromaniac]

Park your Jeep next to a '97-'01 XJ and ask the owner to open the tailgate so you can do a direct comparison between yours and his.

[Pookapotamus]

Park your Jeep next to a '97-'01 XJ and ask the owner to open the tailgate so you can do a direct comparison between yours and his.


Good idea! Oh wait you said park beside not on!
Fine I'll try your way!


Having 4WD means getting stuck in more inaccessible places!

[prerunner1982]

Since I have one of each I may try to get comparison pics for you.

[Mudderoy]

negative. The body style didnt change early, just some parts

So 97 would be the first year of the metal hatch?

[prerunner1982]

correct, when the body style changed.

[Pookapotamus]

Since I have one of each I may try to get comparison pics for you.


That would be awesome!


Having 4WD means getting stuck in more inaccessible places!

[XJ Wheeler]

I've heard there's some differences in the opening that would take serious modding but can't remember exactly. But yeah, the tail lights are different and the hinges are completely opposite. 96- the hinges are on the exterior and 97+ are inside the hatch/body. I don't see why you couldn't just use the older style exterior hinges and make them bolt to the newer liftgate. Would be much easier than trying to make the interior hinges work inside the body.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[prerunner1982]

Sorry, i didnt forget... yeah ok i kinda did. I didnt see any real noticeable difference in the shape of the opening. If there are any specific areas you want me to look at let me know. Took pics of the differences i did see.

[prerunner1982]

Taillights.
Notice they are taller and skinnier on the newer model coming up above the body line.

[prerunner1982]

Hinges.

[Pookapotamus]

Thanks! Now try and swap them!


Having 4WD means getting stuck in more inaccessible places!