I getting ready to do the 2.5 to 5.2 swap myself, i found a 99 durango 5.2, and i want to slam it into my 98 tj... i have the whole durango and am seeing people having issues with the skim key... now the durango has a security light on the dash but just a regular key (it looks identical to my jeep key) which makes me think i may be okay... the previous owner did have the motor replaced and mentioned engine wiring was done but said nothing about the computer... what would your guys opinion be?? i have read a few of these threads and can't tell you how thankful i am that people are kind enough to post their experiences and photos, partslists, tips ect... it has made me very confident that I should be able to get it done! the only thing really making me nervous being the wiring but have not looked into it too much and am hoping it will all make more sense when i start taking everything apart!!
The wiring is intimidating but it is really not that difficult. Just get your schematics & a 12 pack of your favorie beverage and sit down and figure things out befoehand and you'll be fine.
I was told a way to test for skim, not sure if it is accurate but I'll tell you what I was told.
Put the key in the ignition, start the car, roll down the window, turn it off but leave the key in the ignition. Open the car, lock the door and close the door, Take a drink of your beverage cross your fingers and reach in through the window and open the door from the inside. If nothing happens you should be golden, if something happens (I believe the horn honks and lights flash) your S*** out of luck and need a new PCM.
Like I said I am not 100% on this but it is a good initial test. Good luck with your swap and make sure to post your progress, we all love to hear about the experiences you have so we can all learn different tricks and techniques. That way other people can use this thread to do their swaps.
