Jeeps been sitting years
 

Alright guys, brand new to the forum and man is this helpful. Not used to working on jeeps so learning a lot. My question is, I'm getting a free jeep. Take care of this lady's house and it's been in the garage for a few years. She's too old to drive it, and they used it for Home Depot runs and whatnot so not sure the exact time it hasn't ran. The bottom was sprayed with rust protector back in the 90's, new tranny at 87k and now has 117k. What sort of stuff should I do besides oil change, diff and tyranny fluid, and all around break inspection. First time working on something that hasn't been ran, and first time on jeep so any input from some of you seasoned guys would be great,

Thanks

It would help if you told us a little more about it like year, engine, trans, transfer case, and differentials it has.

You have a good start on things but depending on year may be others that need to be done.

some basic stuff obviously is the oil, breaks and other fluids. You might wanna change the plugs and wires also.

But yeah, other things depend on the year and powertrain options also.

Sorry thought I included. 4.0 straight 6 . Aw4 tranny (one with the comfort power switch) and np242 transfer case. Dana 30 front Dana 35 rear

WARNING: Turn engine by hand before you attempt to start it. Use a 3/4 inch socket on crank pulley and turn engine clockwise for at least 2 revolutions. Failure to do this MAY result in a broken valve train!

Year?

sounds like it's an 87-90. probably a limited.
does it have leather interior?
since it was a old lady, the fluid was probably properly maintained. i would check the oil level, smell it for gas, feel for water/antifreeze and crank it over.
if the battery isn't flat, neither would the fluids, but i would change the oil and maybe coolant once you get it home, then you can change the plugs/wires, if you want.

good score, those renix era jeeps are most favourites.

1988 pioneer

If it's been sitting for too long the gas may also have gone bad?

As others said though...mainly vital fluids to start off with...and then address any other issues you may find.

little update, she's all fired up and running pretty good. going to do a compression test today and a full tune-up. turns out it has been sitting less than I thought. service records show that the mileage for next service was like 50 miles ago and last service was in '07. exhaust is rotted out but looks like headers and down pipe are solid. next is to go through the brake system, no leaks or freezes so going to bleed and fill.


one thing is that the 4x4 wont engage. haven't had time to tinker with it but shell be off the ground tonight

Pictures of said Jeep?

Check the integrity of the hard plastic vacuum lines that run around under the hood and down to the front axle disconnect if it has one. Passenger side of the front axle. I had this problem in my 86.

Also, if it's running OK, put some miles on it, like a couple thousand, before deciding what to do after the basic fluid changes etc. A good Italian tune up can improve things after sitting a while. But be sure to do it with good fluids.

Yes^. on the backside of the RF axle there is a deal with three vacuum lines to it. One on the end, and two in a stepped rubber sort of "block". Putting that back on the nipples of the "disco" might do it. I looped a long zip-tie around mine so it can't be easily knocked off.

Right on top in the link in my signature is a link to Cruisers tips, supper info there for us Renix Jeep owners.

Thanks for all the replies! I will post some pics tomorrow, she was a solid "garage find". Planning on putting the day into it, cleaning it up, checking brake lines and such. Luckily the whole bottom was under coated when the original owner bought it so minimal rust and the only rot it the exhaust.

He said it had a 242, and those didn't have all that jazz