How do I tell a 5.2 from a 5.9

I've never seen this confirmed anywhere as a block ID technique, Can anyone confirm this?

On all the Jeep ZJs I've had, the 5.2s all had four bolts on the driver's side motor mount ears on the block, whereas the 5.9s only had three, and didn't have a hole for a fourth bolt. In fact, I don't think they even have an "ear" where the fourth bolt would be. (rear lower ear IIRC)
Easy to remember as it's the opposite of what you'd expect.

Confirmed that on 6 5.9s and 3 5.2s. The 5.2s were 93, 94, and 98.
These were all Jeeps, although I'm pretty sure one of the 5.9s had a Dodge motor in it.

I'm not too familiar with the Dodges but I can't imagine their blocks were any different.

Granted, I'd probably go a step further and confirm the casting #/size off the driver's side - but that might at least provide a quick ID to see if it's worth crawling under there and looking further.


I see OP said he was going carb'd, but for anyone looking to stick with EFI and a lockup/OD tranny I'd strongly recommend sticking with the year-equivalent Dodge trannies and their left side starters as a right side starter might screw up your header or exhaust manifold options.
Ask the guy with the left side startered 5 speed ZJ how he knows! :( lol!