1998 3.5L engine swap for a 2000 Trooper?

[olde_cars]

I just bought a 2000 Isuzu Trooper with a seized motor and have found a 1998 motor at a local salvage yard. The yard had an interchange book which says that the 1998 engine is only good for 98 and 99. I'm confused because the Trooper model didn't change between 98-2000, so I'm confused as to what is different. Any ideas?

[atfdmike]

Just guessing , but I would think the ECM's could be different for transmission and emissions purposes but I believe the physical characteristics are the same regardless of year. One guys opinion!

[jipkc]

Are you ready for this? The difference between the two is the drivers side valve cover. They changed the style on the number six coil pack, which makes it sit wrong on the newer cover. Everything else is the same.

[dropsnout]

You will also have to use the wiring harness and throttle body from the 2000 since it is drive by wire and the 98 isn't