New to site

[tdkask]

Hello. I'm new to the site and have been lurking for a few days trying to pick up all the info I can.

I have a very recent but significant interest in owning a XJ in the semi-near future. I like them and want one and want to do most of the work myself. Unfortunately, I will be leaving in a few weeks for several months on a ship in the US Navy. I expect to be back in Dec or Jan and will look to purchase soon after that. At the moment, I am just trying to learn everything I can and gather info and resources and just a few contacts with experience and wisdom with these Jeeps. Mostly, I value the site and likely ultimately the club because of the community and combined knowledge you get with a group like this. I hope you guys and gals can offer info and advice here and there to help lead me through my purchase and build.

My requirements are simple. It will be my DD first, and my weekend wheeler. I want a XJ with a decent 4.0L and a 5-spd. (but are there disadvantages of a auto with OD? Which one is best?)

The rest is kind of up in the air and dependent on what is available and what is recommended. For instance, are the H.O. engines significantly better? What Xfer cases are better? Are there some 5-spd that are better? What axles are gonna hold up to light/moderate wheelin'? Are there specific years that are going to have more of these attributes? I like the body style of the older more squared XJs, and the prices seem to be lower. Interior should be basic for the most part. Carpet will give way to bedliner. Doors will likely eventually go removable.

I want to run probably 33" tires with trimmed fenders, bushwhacker flares, and aftermarket bumpers. Will 5.5" total lift be enough? The XJ rears are SOA, right? Is a lift block recommended or lift springs? What will give a nice (softer) ride and still allow for lift and flex? Is it advisable to go with higher lift front springs or moderate lift and coild spring spacers to keep "stock" ride quality? Is there a kit that accomplishes everything for springs, shackles, shocks, sway bar disconnects, Xfer case drop, everything? Who sells the best, or is there a better combo of various parts? Is there a cheaper way than an expensive kit to accomplish all of this without too much fabrication?

I know this is a lot of questions that may have a lot of answers, but I have found it to be a LOT of reading to try to gleam all of this from the many posts here. Please don't suggest I just do searches because I don't yet know enough to know what keywords to search for, and cannot do searches anyway (maybe my registration isn't complete or because I'm not a paid member?). This is a good time for everyone to answer up with their experiences with certain models or attempted approaches to improvements, or just for a wise knowledgeable XJ guru to show a newbie like me the ropes. I'll try not to ask too many questions I haven't thought out yet and I appreciate the help and sense of "sharing with newcomers".

Thanks, and in a few months I hope to see some of you on the trails in my future Jeep XJ.

Afterthought: Also, how much of this or related info here applies to "Grand Cherokees"? Aside from trim and fender flares are their significant differences? What about the coil suspensions in front and back? Are they better rides and just as easy to upgrade for lift, etc?

 

[Dundy]

Hello. I'm new to the site and have been lurking for a few days trying to pick up all the info I can.

I have a very recent but significant interest in owning a XJ in the semi-near future. I like them and want one and want to do most of the work myself. Unfortunately, I will be leaving in a few weeks for several months on a ship in the US Navy. I expect to be back in Dec or Jan and will look to purchase soon after that. At the moment, I am just trying to learn everything I can and gather info and resources and just a few contacts with experience and wisdom with these Jeeps. Mostly, I value the site and likely ultimately the club because of the community and combined knowledge you get with a group like this. I hope you guys and gals can offer info and advice here and there to help lead me through my purchase and build.

My requirements are simple. It will be my DD first, and my weekend wheeler. I want a XJ with a decent 4.0L and a 5-spd. (but are there disadvantages of a auto with OD? Which one is best?)

The rest is kind of up in the air and dependent on what is available and what is recommended. For instance,

are the H.O. engines significantly better? I have better luck with the H.O.'s so i'd say yes
What Xfer cases are better? Both the NP231 and NP242 are strong, reliable cases
Are there some 5-spd that are better? The tranny that you'd want is the AX15
What axles are gonna hold up to light/moderate wheelin'? Dana 30/ Chrysler 8.25
Are there specific years that are going to have more of these attributes? The most desirable year is 1999 because tey have a better intake manifold and the front axle is still high pinion (2000-01 have low pinion Dana 30's)
I like the body style of the older more squared XJs, and the prices seem to be lower. Interior should be basic for the most part. Carpet will give way to bedliner. Doors will likely eventually go removable. The 96- door hinges are easier to modify for the doorless mod

I want to run probably 33" tires with trimmed fenders, bushwhacker flares, and aftermarket bumpers. Will 5.5" total lift be enough? That's a little high for 33". I'd go with about 4" of lift and trim the fenders.
The XJ rears are SOA, right? YES
Is a lift block recommended or lift springs? NO, a shackle is better
What will give a nice (softer) ride and still allow for lift and flex? I like my Rubicon Express coil and leaf springs
Is it advisable to go with higher lift front springs or moderate lift and coil spring spacers to keep "stock" ride quality? Unless you get a really stiff coil you don't notice the difference
Is there a kit that accomplishes everything for springs, shackles, shocks, sway bar disconnects, Xfer case drop, everything? LINK
Who sells the best, or is there a better combo of various parts? it's all a matter of opinion and how deep your pockets are
Is there a cheaper way than an expensive kit to accomplish all of this without too much fabrication? do a little research...

I know this is a lot of questions that may have a lot of answers, but I have found it to be a LOT of reading to try to gleam all of this from the many posts here. Please don't suggest I just do searches because I don't yet know enough to know what keywords to search for, and cannot do searches anyway (maybe my registration isn't complete or because I'm not a paid member?). This is a good time for everyone to answer up with their experiences with certain models or attempted approaches to improvements, or just for a wise knowledgeable XJ guru to show a newbie like me the ropes. I'll try not to ask too many questions I haven't thought out yet and I appreciate the help and sense of "sharing with newcomers".

Thanks, and in a few months I hope to see some of you on the trails in my future Jeep XJ.

Afterthought: Also, how much of this or related info here applies to "Grand Cherokees"? not too much, LINK
Aside from trim and fender flares are their significant differences? interior, drivetrain, options available.
What about the coil suspensions in front and back? Are they better rides and just as easy to upgrade for lift, etc? they will ride better but they are a little more work to lift (more components need attention)

 

[asp]

welcome. adam hit the nail on the head. and i agree with him that 99 is the best year to buy. mine is a 98 and i'm happy with it, though. 96- would be nice because then you wouldn't need to deal with emisions, but for god's sakes, did they not drink coffee and drive in the early 90's? there's not a single cup holder in the whole xj.

 

[Shorty]

welcome again (P.M.'d as well)
There are a TON of early XJs in the Hampton Roads area for little-to-no money. When you get closer to buying, feel free to stop bye the store and I'll happily go look at any you're thinking about buying. I'm bye no means an expert, but I've got a fair amount of practice buying and selling these things, so I can help you avoid a lot of common pitfalls. Don't be afraid to swing bye earlier, if you've got more questions-- I'm normally a fairly easy-going schmuck and like talking Jeeps with just about anyone interested in listening...:cheers:

 

[tdkask]

Thanks for the responses and welcomes, and for the PM, Shorty. I'll definitely stop by some time.

Dundy, Thanks for spending the time addressing all of that in such specific detail. That's very helpful. I'll look more into it when I get a chance later today.

BTW, will a 4" lift and basic cutout to fit bushwackers take a 33x12.5 tire? If not, could the difference be made up with blocks, etc?

asp387, any advantages of getting a 96 and swapping in 99 manifold? What is the best setup for changing injectors, etc for upgrades?

Finally, if I did go ZJ instead of XJ (I know it's XJ forum... lol) do they have more or less capable suspension/flex and better or worse ride with a 4" lift?

Again, thanks for all the responses, and I'll try to respond better, only have a minute to look at web right now. Appreciate the advice. Please keep it coming if anyone has anything to add.

tdkask

 

[ROBZ95Xj]

Thanks for the responses and welcomes, and for the PM, Shorty. I'll definitely stop by some time.

Dundy, Thanks for spending the time addressing all of that in such specific detail. That's very helpful. I'll look more into it when I get a chance later today.

BTW, will a 4" lift and basic cutout to fit bushwackers take a 33x12.5 tire? If not, could the difference be made up with blocks, etc?

asp387, any advantages of getting a 96 and swapping in 99 manifold? What is the best setup for changing injectors, etc for upgrades?

Finally, if I did go ZJ instead of XJ (I know it's XJ forum... lol) do they have more or less capable suspension/flex and better or worse ride with a 4" lift?

Again, thanks for all the responses, and I'll try to respond better, only have a minute to look at web right now. Appreciate the advice. Please keep it coming if anyone has anything to add.

tdkask

i ran 3" on 33's all last year and it was a awsome setup, ask anyone on here, i just relocated the stock flares up higher, dont waste your money on whackers

the 99 intake isnt a great upgrade unless you got a built motor, its a good bit of work for minimal gain

i dislike zj's, everyhting cost more from them and your stuck with the crappy chrysler trans in them

 

[tdkask]

i ran 3" on 33's all last year and it was a awsome setup, ask anyone on here, i just relocated the stock flares up higher, dont waste your money on whackers

That's cool. A 3" runs a lot cheaper, and I'd imagine would be a better riding rig. Do you need SYE with a 3" lift? Is it a good idea anyway, or at least a different driveshaft? I like the looks of the bushwackers, with the holes where the mounting screws go, and the 4" flare.

the 99 intake isnt a great upgrade unless you got a built motor, its a good bit of work for minimal gain

Maybe down the road, but not likely. A decent snorkel, and maybe upgraded injectors if it were for a gain.

i dislike zj's, everyhting cost more from them and your stuck with the crappy chrysler trans in them

Didn't realize about the different trans, etc. Yeah, I just don't see that many that were modded for offroad. Thanks for the input.

I appreciate all the help andsuggestions and input, guys.

BTW: What is the difference for emissions requirements for '96 and older versus 97 and newer?

 

[chedisme]

not sure of the specifics but its easier to pass inspection with the older ones OBD1 vs the newer ones OBD2

 

[Dundy]

i think in VA you don't need to pass emissions with OBDI

 

[tdkask]

Oh, yeah... no emissions in VA, I think. I have only done one VA state inspection, but don't recall. My last emissions test was in 1998, maybe... Then I drove a Fairlane for a few years, then FL did away with emissions testings. Only this year did we tag our car here.

 

[Dest]

An auto will be a lot easier to find, but I personally like the 5 spd.

 

[tdkask]

An auto will be a lot easier to find, but I personally like the 5 spd.

Yeah, I have considered both, but would rather change a clutch than rebuild a auto. How are auto's for wheelin'? Make it easier, or loss of some control? What auto is recommended? Is that recommended auto prevalent in late 90's XJs?

i dislike zj's, everyhting cost more from them and your stuck with the crappy chrysler trans in them

Are the transmissions/Xfer cases interchangeable (bolt on), or are there issues with brackets, crossmembers, linkage, etc? Is there a known frankenstein where a ZJ gets the best of both worlds without cutting and welding? I mean, the bodies are nice enough, the interiors are nicer looking (if you're into that for a DD/wheeler), and coil rear springs might be great IF you can bolt up the best mix of factory axles, transmissions, and Xfer cases? Has this been done? Is this common, or is it unreasonable at my level? Are the axles comparable? I just want to know the options when ZJs seem to be as available and comparably priced in my area presently. I don't know if the underside is basically the same around the transmission and Xfer case, and can I drop an AX15 and NP231/242 and appropriate drive-shafts and call it a day?

I know this may seem like a lot, but these are the questions I kinda have to answer as this project develops in my head, as I will only be able to afford to do this all once and wanna get the most for my dollar.

I know there is also a coil spring conversion for XJs. Is this a big gain? Would you just go with LA at that point? At what point am I spending more time/money than necessary?

Again, thanks for all the input. I appreciate you sharing knowledge and advice.

 

[chedisme]

the rear coil conversion for the xj works great and is pretty much a long are kit for the rear(triangulated 4 link). but its not cheap, and Id say its not something you doo off the batt. its something you do when you have pushed your rig to the limits of what you can get with leaf springs and get tired/ want more out of your rig.

id say dont go crazy all at once and build your dream rig first. because as you wheel you will learn what you like and what you dont and you might find you built/set it up wrong. then you wasted alot of time and money just to swap out one part for another.

its great to see you so excited about this. I look forward to seeing you on the trail.

 

[tdkask]

the rear coil conversion for the xj works great and is pretty much a long arm kit for the rear(triangulated 4 link). but its not cheap, and Id say its not something you do off the batt. its something you do when you have pushed your rig to the limits of what you can get with leaf springs and get tired/ want more out of your rig.

I got ya. I was just thinking about the advantages of coil vs leaf. I guess I cannot compare a coild conversion to a stock coil on a ZJ, really. In efforts to decide between XJ and ZJ I have to pick it for what it is, not what they would be after mod, unless I considered comparable mods. I like the idea of all coils, and am wondering if I can stuff 33x12.5 with 2-3" lift and fender cutouts regardless of XJ or ZJ. There are advantages to both, but it doesn't seem to make sense to buy a ZJ if I'm gonna just swap in a XJ tranny/xfer... the cost doesn't justify it when I don't necessarily like one style over the other beyond the coil springs. Too bad there's not a ZJ with 4.0, AX15 and NP231/242 already for sale cheap.

id say dont go crazy all at once and build your dream rig first. because as you wheel you will learn what you like and what you dont and you might find you built/set it up wrong. then you wasted alot of time and money just to swap out one part for another.

No, I didn't mean that. Actually, I'm trying to do the opposite. I know I want about 33" tires and decent flex, but more importantly I want a dependable rig with a comfortable ride during DD chores.

I want to do as little as possible to accomplish this task, and then want to slap cutout flares, snorkle, roof rack, lights, and aftermarket bumpers on it and call it a rig. Aside from that, I will likely only put bedliner on it, rock sliders (so my wife and kids can climb in) and rubber flooring. I won't be doing and real rock crawling or serious offroading, just minor obstacles on trail.

I see very inspiring cool pics of Jeeps in the most amazing poses climbing serious rocks or going through scare crevices, and then right next to them is the flat trail the passed up in order to play on the challenging section. I likely will take the simple route when possible, and don't need a serious machine to make it up the side of a canyon. I am good to watch you guys do that and dream of that kind of time and money to put into a truck, but know my limits. Thats what comes with being older and broke... lol.

its great to see you so excited about this. I look forward to seeing you on the trail.

Thanks. Your encouragement is appreciated. So far on here there have been people so willing to share the info and sportsmanship with others. I really like this site, and would definitely join the association if I had a XJ already... lol, but would feel like a poser. :laugh:

 

[locrwl]

Oh, yeah... no emissions in VA, I think. I have only done one VA state inspection, but don't recall. My last emissions test was in 1998, maybe... Then I drove a Fairlane for a few years, then FL did away with emissions testings. Only this year did we tag our car here.

Va has emissions, it's every other year and I forgot what year but if the vehicle is old enough it's exempt. Well, at least we have them in NOVA...

 

[kastein]

95 or 99 is best as has been said, 95 is the old body style and OBD-I, less prone to heat soak (but that's not gonna be a problem on a 99 most likely), 99 is the new body style and new intake, won't take as much lift to require an SYE kit but that's not a huge deal really. Stay away from 96 (and I say that as a 96 owner) and find one without rust, the rest you can deal with.

 

[tdkask]

I was gone a few days at sea, and have made it home now. Thanks for the comments locrwl and kastein.

Back on the earlier discussion of what years, Aside from the low pinion D-30's, are there disadvantages of the 2000/2001 models? Would 2000/2001 with a swap of a high pinion be a good setup? Would a 3" + lift account for the difference in pinion height and therefore allow for using the 2000/2001 driveshaft? Are the axle housings the same length? I was just thinking that a newer Jeep means (hypothetically) fewer problems and fewer miles, and maybe (?) better engine setup, etc... and an axles swap would be easy enough if the control arms bolt up the same and the coil mounts are the same? Any input on these ideas?

I ran 3" on 33's all last year and it was a awesome setup, ask anyone on here, I just relocated the stock flares up higher, don't waste your money on whackers.

Do you have a pic of your rig with that setup?

Thanks.

.

 

[ROBZ95Xj]

Do you have a pic of your rig with that setup?

Thanks.

.

here ya go

 

[tdkask]

here ya go

Thanks, ROBZ95Xj. In that second pic is that expected flex for a 3"? What was the lift at that time? Is it likely I could get anywhere close to that kind of flex with a BB?

Anyone have any input on axle swaps? Is it easy to swap in a high pinion axle into a 2000/2001? Is there a better route than that? I am just trying to think the steps through from purchase of stock to eventual trail wheeler/DD.

 

[ROBZ95Xj]

Thanks, ROBZ95Xj. In that second pic is that expected flex for a 3"? What was the lift at that time? Is it likely I could get anywhere close to that kind of flex with a BB?

Anyone have any input on axle swaps? Is it easy to swap in a high pinion axle into a 2000/2001? Is there a better route than that? I am just trying to think the steps through from purchase of stock to eventual trail wheeler/DD.

that was at 3"with longer shocks yes you will get similer flex i ran re twin tubed for a 2" lift in the frt and cheap monroes in the rear for a mj, both pairs of shocks worked great, you will learn that flex aint everything, my setup was very well balanced and predictable