It looks like the run of the FB is running out, as I rarely update this blog, despite the numerous changes I've been making to the Jeep. This is partly due to me living in SoCal longer than anticipated, the fact that I have continuously broke it over the past 12 months, and the fact that I have a 2005 Wrangler Rubicon LJ parked next to it in the garage that gets more overall attention for obvious reasons.
I have recently lengthened the long arms so I have exactly 101 inches from axle to axle, zero front pinion angle, and about 7 degrees of caster. I also fixed an annoying steering pop by replacing a poorly fitting damper with an OME steering damper, and even the rear leafs have been behaving well. Today, the XJ drives better than it ever has, despite the 168k reading on the odometer and general abuse I have given it over the past 6 years. Over the past two weeks, I added a new alternator and battery, clockspring, washed it inside and out, and removed a lot of unneeded weight and what remained of two recent trips to Moab. I've been driving it to work lately and still get the occasional wave from onlookers who appreciate a moderately built Cherokee.
The unfortunate part of having two Jeeps is the newer LJ has received my LEDs, CB, and other transferable hardware from the XJ. What's left, however, is a cleaner, better running, and sleeker XJ than ever before. Gone is the ConnFerr rack, go-fast window stickers, and assorted accouterments that gave it its distinct character. What remains is a capable stockish XJ with 6" long arm lift, ARB rear locker, Grizzly front locker and Warn hubs, onboard air, Currie steering, meaty MT/R's, and a craving for sand, rocks, and hot chicks.
I've spent years in, on, and under this Jeep and hope I can keep it as long as possible, but I fear it's days are numbered. My youngest son is 12, and it would be a shame to sell it, only to buy another less capable, and less cool vehicle in 3 years that he can drive, modify, and appreciate. Selling it would also yield a mere fraction of the 29k I've spent on this beast, even though the 8k I could probably get for it would be nice in the pocket (and on the LJ).
This posting has no purpose other than to use up 10 free minutes I have, and to look back fondly on the Jeep, this forum, and those I have met along the way.