1980 258 Into A 1973 Cj5

I’ve found a good deal on a complete 258 for $300 to replace my 232. I know they are supposed to be the same. I just wanted to make sure nothing changed between the years because I know Jeep had switched parents companies a few times. I have the 3 speed trans. I noticed the alternator bracket is on the passenger side vs mine in the drivers. Any knowledge will be appreciated.
Thanks

 

Position of the accessories changed in 1975. Both the power steering and the alternator swapped sides. You could choose either configuration. Does either engine have power steering?

I think you can set up the front of the engine with either set of accessories. Just keep all the parts from one year or the other.

I would expect the rocker arm design to be different on the '80, and I think the head bolts are smaller? In terms of dropping in, they are the same. It's essentially the same engine, but the 232 and T-14 were both gone by '80. These are internally balanced (neutral balance) engines, so no issue there. Put your flywheel and clutch on the 258 and run it.

 

Perfect. Neither engine have a power steering pump installed. Thanks for all your help.