[Rubi4MyMrs]

No expert but... the OPDAs are different but you s/b able to use the '02 in the '06 block. You will use your old '02 flywheel so the CKP from your bell housing will be right at home . If the cam gear is bad on the old engine, the OPDA/CMP gear is probably bad too, get a new OPDA/CMP for a '02. Be sure to check the cam gear on the '06 given the history of the late OPDA/cam gear issues. I would think that would eliminate any wiring issues & you s/b OK.

BTW Dorman makes a OPDA/CMP for the '02 for $30-$40. Sometimes the base is too big to fit into the block so don't think it won't fit because of the '06 block. Sand down the aluminum base a few thousandths & it will go in.

[Brian86992]

Originally Posted by Rubi4MyMrs

No expert but... the OPDAs are different but you s/b able to use the '02 in the '06 block. You will use your old '02 flywheel so the CKP from your bell housing will be right at home . If the cam gear is bad on the old engine, the OPDA/CMP gear is probably bad too, get a new OPDA/CMP for a '02. Be sure to check the cam gear on the '06 given the history of the late OPDA/cam gear issues. I would think that would eliminate any wiring issues & you s/b OK.

BTW Dorman makes a OPDA/CMP for the '02 for $30-$40. Sometimes the base is too big to fit into the block so don't think it won't fit because of the '06 block. Sand down the aluminum base a few thousandths & it will go in.

Thanks for the info and reassurance. I already OK'd the shop to buy a new sensor now it's just a game of bolting everything back up and hoping for the best when the key is turned

[Brian86992]

Conclusion I will leave this here to help someone out in the future who's having the same questions as me.

A 2006 engine will work in a 2002. Moreover this means that all 2000+ TJ engines, to my knowledge are able to be swapped with one another.

The biggest change was using my 2002 OPDA/CPA in the 2006 block.
I am running mostly 2006 accessories (alt, water pump, compressor, tensioner) but using my 2002's power steering pump.


Now the interesting part, and different issue altogether is that my 2002's OPDA/CPA had the same wearing patterns as the notorious 05/06 models. I'll put some pictures of the worm gear up later.

Edit: and here are the pictures of the worn OPDA








If anyone has questions about swapping in a newer engine in the future, PM me and I'll see if I can be any help