It is my understanding the AW4 used by Jeep was from 1987-1999 with a change in spline (21 to 23) about 1992.
I THINK that was 2000 or 2001, but I don't remember exactly. Otherwise, correct. All the Jeep posts I've read recommend using the late '90s AW4 if you're swapping one in. Partially do to the 23 spline change, but I think I remember reading that there are some minor internal changes that improved the late AW4. Don't quote me - I ran across that information while looking for other stuff so I may be incorrect.
That tranny is basically an A340 used by Toyota from 1990 - 2005. The Jeep version had a control module to combine 1st and 2nd gear which made it a 3speed tranny. Toyota applications were 4speed.
Hmmm. Knew about the 1-2 thing on the Jeep and Mitsu AW4. Didn't know that about the Toy version.
Novak and Advance Adapters may have additional info about adapters necessary for specific engines.
When swapping a non-Mitsu AW4 into a Montero or Montero Sport, you need the Mitsu bell housing. I don't know about elsewhere but that is a PITA to find in CO.
Easier to find an entire Mitsu AW4.
I misread the post when I replied. If you're swapping a '97 Cherokee AW4 23-spline into a Mitsu you don't need the 23-spline Jeep output shaft or output adapter housing as you'd already have that.
Transmission and a Mitsu bell housing should be it if you're going to run it as a manual shift setup without a TCU. Otherwise, TCU, wiring, shifter and associated parts and pieces.
The dipstick is on opposite sides between the Cherokee and the Mitsu. I don't know if that would cause an issue or not. Looked to me like it'll clear the 3.0L exhaust but I haven't tried, so ....
There is a TSB referencing a deeper sump (higher volume) transmission pan for the '97-'98 Montero Sport AW4. I presume that applies to the Montero as well. Just trivia. I know some people ask about this on the Jeep boards and no one ever has an answer.
Edward
