This may be a dumb question, but how would you describe how a well sorted stock XJ drives and handles? I've never owned a truck or truck-based SUV so I don't have a good reference. Mine tracks straight, but it definitely sways around a bit as it goes over pavement irregularities. Just wondering if I should be checking things like shocks?

 

That's pretty common with a solid-axle setup, especially in the rear. All that unsprung weight bounces over those bumps, and when it happens around a corner, the back end will step out a bit. No big deal once you're used to it, but that's just life.

 

Thanks for clearing that up. I've noticed the back end doing just that when cornering at a particularly rough intersection. No big deal as you say. I wasn't expecting a sports car.

 

It's highly subjective, but I think it drives like a decent small truck or SUV would be expected to. If not, check that the previous owner hasn't removed the sway bar or that the shocks aren't blown out.

 

Some of what you are describing may be normal but you also may be experiencing bump-steer if the jeep wants to jerk to one side when you hit a bump, this is fairly common if it has been lifted.