I test drove an 88 cherokee yesterday and it idled just fine sitting. When I got in to drive and got the rpms up higher it died at every stop light that I came to. I am thinking that maybe the injectors might need cleaning but don't want to take the chance if it is something else. I am not sure how much power the 2.5 should have but it felt pretty underpowered.

 

I would just walk away, theres no point in buying the 2.5 especially when its that old. Do your best to get a 4.0L.

 

I agree. A 4 cylinder is too underpowered for a serious off road vehicle. With the weight of your off road gear it will not be able to get out of it's own way.
Look for a 4.0L I6 they can be very strong runners and are upgradeable too.

 

Thanks for the posts. I should have narrowed my question down. I have a 95 cherokee with the 4.0 in it. I was looking at this jeep for my nephew. He just needs a commuter to get from home to school and we came across this one. I know if it was me I would rather want the 4.0 but for him I thought maybe it would be worth it. Thanks again for the replies

 

I still would do it, you arent going to see any difference in MPG and (properly maintained) he will get a longer lifespan out of his rig.

 

Yeah the more I thought about it I figured finding a 4.0 liter wouldn't be that hard. So now the search is on for one of those. Thanks again for the help

 

Not a problem, when/if you find one post up some pictures