the blocks are the same on 96-98, the pistons on SOHC are different.

this post gives good info on engine differences
http://www.enginebuildermag.com/Arti...0l_engine.aspx

if yor planning on swaping heads this post gives info on head swaps.
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen...c-to-dohc.html

Haynes is better than chiltons but try and get your hands on a factory service manual.

my advice would be to get a different engine that has good copmression.