I have a 2000 XJ...I dont have unexplained coolant loss. How can you tell if you have a cracked head other than coolant loss?

 

If you don't have coolant loss or other symptoms, don't worry about it. There is nothing pointing towards further testing for you.

Just check that coolant reservoir on a regular basis. And make sure your cooling system is top notch. Don't want an overheat.

 

sound advice, thank you.

i took the XJ in question to a mechanic today. Within 5 mins he told me to walk away unless i was thinking of this as a project to restore. all the rear shocks, springs etc were rusted, he was pulling bits off it. the exhaust had been sawn off, oil leaks all over, hoses never changed and signs of an unreported accident (did not come up on carfax, but bumpers had been changed and signs of damage). we didn't even get to check the head, was no point even getting that far. the seller looked pretty unhappy - he was doing it as a favour for his uncle, the owner, who i spoke to on the phone and had told me he was a mechanic and maintained it perfectly.

a lucky escape and thank god i got it checked.

 

Good for you! It's always frustrating to go through some effort like this and then end up without the Jeep, but it's a lot cheaper in the long term!