Posting this thread in technical forum instead of non-tech.
I notice that there are many instances of heater issues with Cherokees. Here are the facts with my problem.
I have not replaced the thermostat.
I have not replaced the radiator cap.
I have not flushed the heater core.
The system is full of coolant.
The system reaches approximately 195 degrees in less than 5 minutes.
Both upper and lower heater hoses are very warm to touch and seem the same temperature at operating temperature.
There is very evident temperature change when I move blue to red and vice versa on the heater control.
The A/C works fine.
I can hear the blend door move when I switch between red and blue and vice versa.
Problem: The heat does not get hot enough.
Any ideas and help would be appreciated.

 

This is a no brainier!
Start by doing all of the things that you have not done! Then ask...

 

Flush the heater core. I just bought my xj two weeks ago. It was getting very mediocre hot air, but SOME. The PO was convinced that the Heater core needed replacing and had bought a new one, which he gave to me. I was expecting to have to do a swap but FIRST flushed the core with compressed air just to be sure. You are suppose to do it with a garden hose but when it's 10 degrees outside, I don't have that option. I flushed the core after watching some youtube vids and it heats up quite well now.

On a separate note, there seems to be alot of these posts on this forum. Can't we make a sticky?

 

Not much on unnecessary parts replacement, but , since the cost is minimal, probable the thing to do. Already have new thermostat and can pick up cap easily. Radiator flush will be simple. Thanks for your ideas, although they were mine.

 

When you flush the heater core make sure to flush it several times in both directions. When the water comes out clear flush it a couple more times in both directions.