Driving my first Cherokee cross country 99' 100k miles, what to watch/listen for?
 

Hello! Incredibly excited as I finally purchased the jeep I have been looking for. Limited 99 (98 engine build) with low miles. I will be jumping in and driving back to my home state cross country. Even though I am excited and have other stuff I would like to look into such as modifications.

First and foremost, what should I listen for in terms of issues? On such a long ride I will be able to get to know the car fairly well. The engine theoretically was built prior to the faulty part post 99' so that should be OK. Luckily I have a mechanic in the family and the plan is to drive it right to the shop on arrival.

Thanks for the advice and your time!

Welcome. I would check tires, brakes, oil, trans fluid. I assume its stock but I would also check for things like sway bar Bushings, make sure you don't have death wobble and listen for knocks and such. If there's a problem, address it early before you make the trip.

Thanks for the reply. The fluids all seem fine with no leaks and pressure gauges while the engine is running don't point to obvious issues.

In terms of the knocks I definitely know what those issues can sound like. The death wobble though, could you explain a little more and if it is an issue how would I fix it.

I do not believe there are *any* modifications whatsoever. The second owner seemed to be an old person who barely drove it getting service at regular interval. Only one minor fender bender on the carfax report. Rear end that scratched the right part of the bumper.

Death wobble mostly occurs in lifted vehicles. Its when you hit a bump and your whole jeep shakes uncontrollaby. I wouldn't worry about it too much your jeep being stock. If it does occur, its usually things like out of balance tires, worn track bar bushing, tie rod ends, ball joints or control arm bushings

Thanks a ton. I was just reading about it below and it seems like it would be pretty obvious when/if it happens.

Wait a few hours. More guys will chime in as well. Its late and I'm tired so I'm sure there's things I'm forgetting

Basically what 93 said, just a general pre-inspection should be adequate. Luckily it's starting to cool down but I'd check coolant and hoses too.
Make sure you have a full size spare, maybe a small tool kit, duct tape, rags. Where is the starting point and final destination?