NewXJaddict

I have a lot of different things I want to work on with the Jeep. None of them are critical. The Jeep runs and drives fine as is but I am unsure about what was done to it by the previous owner or the owner before. I am trying to just get it all sorted out and I feel like I am going in a million different directions.

Here is the condensed list of what I want to get into.

1. electrical: plugs,wires, dist cap, rotor.

2. Fluids/seals: front/rear diffs transfer case (already did oil and transmission)

3. Cooling system: T-stat, water pump, 3core radiator and switch from closed pressure to regular (if possible) I also want to get rid of all the a/c junk. I don't use it and don't intend to. (also if possible/advisable)

4. LIFT!. Yeah I know I should get everything else fixed and up to par before lifting but damn I want it lifted! lol



I think those are the 4 main areas I want to get to. I also want to rip out the rear sway bar but ill get to that sooner or later.



I know I should be able to figure this out. But if it were yours what would you do?

troy fritz

I would do the axles and tc 1st. You dont know how long its been since serviced. Then I would do the tune up. Go ahead and get rid of the ac. You will have to buy a new serpintine belt[non ac] Keep the condensor in it though, it will help keep mud and other things out of your radiator. Then do your flush and t stat. I wouldnt do the pump unless you need to. As for the lift and tires I cant wait to get mine done. Sounds like you have a prject on your hands . Good luck. As for modifications , take pics and post them , it can help others with their projects.

Howler_GT

You can never go wrong with the "maintenance stuff".
Give it a good tune-up.
Also, fluid changes are always a good thing.

Is the A/C causing you any grief?
I'd leave it.

Cooling system upgrades remove alot of headaches associated with the older-style system.
A properly operating cooling system will help prolong the life of your XJ.

Make sure the front-end is in good shape before lifting.
Do not bother with an alignment (unless it REALLY needs it), you will need to worry about that AFTER any lifting.

Before lifting, you will need to determine the "main" use of the XJ.
Then build the lift kit per those specifications.

EX: For a DD (daily-driver) you probably do not want 35" Super Swampers on a 6.5" lift with Revolver Shackles and 10MPG.
(Just an example...no flames)

NewXJaddict

lol yeah. I know I am only going with a RC 3 inch lift and eventually wider tires for beach running / DD

The a/c Isnt causing me grief I could just leave it. Any ideas on how to swap out the closed pressure system? Is it just direct swap out or is it complicated?

Abovetimberline

I did mine with all items except heater control valve from the jy,I broke the valve removing it.
What you need to do is get a 91 and above radiator,heater control valve and hoses for 91 and above.
replace your radiator with the new one
replace hoses and heater control valve with new ones
remove plastic bottle and holder and replace with overflow bottle that will fit there,mine came from a chevy car,later model,and hose that will reach from radiator to overflow bottle.
It is very easy and well worth it.

NewXJaddict

awesome, thanks for the imput on the cooling system. The closed pressure thing just worries me lol.

cj11

Lift First Ask Questions Later

Thats what i did may not always be the smartest thing to do but what the hell

NewXJaddict

hahaha I like that answer! But seriously I am probably going with the front and rear diffs first. I checked the oil in there and yes there is some in there but it looks like mud!

cherokeechief8891

totally random i am pretty sure i cannot find my heater control valve on my 88 so lost about it... and thats all i am waiting on to get it runnin any input?!

stickey

I really want to say lift first, but we're not 12 anymore. Definatly do the diffs and TC first. They are usually the most neglected by PO. Open the pumpkin, don't let some Jiffy place suck it out!!! As far as elec tune up - if it runs smooth, let it wait til you got the money and time, and don't forget about Seafoam - thro a bottle in your gas tank. I use it in all my engines. Also if your beach runnin don't forget to wash ur under carriage, get that salt gone. Most important have fun.

JSwamper

remove that rear sway bar,, you will not even notice a difference

NewXJaddict

wow, this is an old post of mine. I have already removed it. Not when I posted this thread though.

Also I did notice a difference with the rear sway bar gone. I noticed that it became much smoother going over bumps lol.