Hey guys... its a noob here

Found a 1988 jeep cherokee to purchase, here's the question...

Can I get some insight on this renix system?

I have a couple of friends that say that the cherokee renix system is one of the best, but then I read online and a lot or majority people say to stay away from it or get anything 91 - 99.

 

It's a love/hate relationship. Some people will only get a Renix engine and claim they are the best around but then others will stay away from them.

Then again, people like to do things to the Renix to make it more like the High Output, like convert it to the open cooling system (dang H.O. wannabees).

I personally would recommend going with a High Output (so a 91-99 so you can also avoid the 0331 head of the 00-01 years).

 

If you want to possibly make more power, renix has more potential. Ecu doesn't throw codes, have memory. So its more of a old school build motor.

Some downsides (I'm die hard renix):

No diagnostics (get your multimeter ready)
biggest alt you can get w/o modification is like 100 amps
Hard to find aftermarket parts (like coil pack) stock parts is all right though

Pretty much, renix is like a test of your mechanical aptitude. If you aren't a good mechanic, you won't like renix. Its the bare minimum when it comes to electrical fuel injection.

They are also insanely bombproof. 410k on the stock motor, at 417k on the trans.

 

Renix I find to be an interesting system. IMHO there's a lot more flexibility behind it since so much of the EFI is analog. And there's a knock sensor. And it only had to comply with ancient emissions standards. Because of how unique it is you'll find a LOT of quality information on troubleshooting and repairs. Later models are more like READ CODE -> REPLACE COMPONENT.

Renix is the first generation of the 4.0L. Regardless of its other strengths or weaknesses, a lot of issues are wiring problems. Stuff like ground freshening and C101 refurbishing can fix a plethora of symptoms that may elude some mechanics. Ain't no code but all you need is a multimeter, dental pick, wire brush, and some contact cleaner! This could actually be to your advantage. Other early model-type problems can be dealt with as they come up, such as replacing the cooling system components with something more modern when you do maintenance, etc.

If I were to buy another XJ I'd either get a Renix or a 97-99 with OBD-II and all the other problems "fixed".

 

X2 they can be like a women (or my wife lol), you never know whats gonna set them off. my love is the simplicity. my first renix was a burden but my second one has been great! so really look it over before you buy.
hopefully cruiser54

will chime in to he is kinda of a "god" if you will with the renix.

 

Thanks guys...

Ended up driving to tampa... the jeep even on the way back to miami

 

My 87 is a champ. Bought it after it sat for ten years. Started right up. She never quits.

 

Pictures of the jeep? And welcome to the Renix family

 

Thanks rooster... on my bulid page on my signature...

 

Question...... What is a Renix motor.....

 

1987 to 1990 4.0 with the Renix fuel injection system.
1986 to 19XX 2.5 with the Renix system.

 

The pink link in my signature should become your new best friend. post up any questions you may have.

 

Ok thanks cruiser54...

I'm redoing the floor now... taking out rust .. patching up some holes on the floor and then ill paint it with por 15 and finish it up with vinyl...

I do have some electrical problems but that's later...