TapouT

I'm going to look at a '90 model Jeep Cherokee today with the 4.0. The owner says it needs a head gasket so we'll see. What all is required to replace a head gasket. Is the head gasket the only gasket I need to change or do I need to change others while I'm at it? I've been told that that's all I'll need to replace but I'm just wanting to make sure. Thanks for the help!

XJ Stryker

Well would be a good time to take a look at the exhaust manifold too. Could also be cracked.

There are too many nice XJ's for cheap to have to settle on one with a bad head gasket. Also being that it is a 19 year old vehicle to may have more than that causing problems. Connecting rods worn, bearings going out. I would be really weary of buying a vehicle that old with engine problems.

TapouT

Well it only has 160,000 miles. That's somewhat low for a Cherokee. My last one had 210,000 and was still running strong. It's also only $200 with a really nice body and interior.

XJ Stryker

Well 200 bucks is sounding more like a good deal. Just be cautious that you are not buying someone elses nightmare!

Kevin Jeep

I would suggest you buy a head gasket, water pump, and thermostat housing gasket with thermostat. Then put all that on. Now before you run that jeep for a long period of time go through and make sure it's not running hot. Although this will take care of most of the engine's cooling you still need to check the heater core, radiator and make sure the transmission isn't over heating causing the head to blow. I see it everyday. People fix what was broke, but don't fix what caused it to break. Just make sure you replace these things and you'll enjoy that jeep for awhile. Rock on my fellow jeeper

winston427

If you buy a head gasket set it should have all the needed gaskets to do the repair.

sv41878

For $200, I just bought a 2wd for the body at that same price (bad head gasket or freeze plug and leaking tranny) and think I got a deal. I'm swapping the 4wd system from one that went to scrap (NY rust killed it), and even with the work I know is coming with it, I can't beat the price. Jump on it even if it turns out to need a motor.

ZachsXJ

Shoot, If I could find a $200 Jeep. I'd buy it for the sole purpose of parting it out