Hi all,

Soon, I will be setting off on a road trip (about 330 miles in total) in my 1997 Cherokee Limited.

I was just wondering if anyone has any tips on which things to check and do before setting off to ensure the trip is problem - free.

Thank you very much - anything would be much appreciated.

just went about 1600 round trip on my 01 limited. 250k miles on the od. She was perfect.

check all fluids.
oil (go ahead and change of your close to your next one)
brake
power steering
coolant (maybe do a flush if it’s been a year)
trans

Be aware of any leaks and keep an eye out for any mysteriously disappearing coolant.

check your tires for uneven wear and proper air pressure. Maybe rotate them and get an alignment if it’s been a while.

check your serp belt. Even if it’s ok buy a spare and carry it.

get underneath and grab any steering and suspension components you can and check for play.

check your rotors and brake pads.

keep an eye on your coolant temp as you travel.

carry spare fluids and some basic tools.

that’s all I can think of at the
moment.

Spare fuses, fluids, belt, CPS, hose repair, JB weld, fire extinguisher, first aid kit and basic tools. I keep all those things at a bare minimum on hand at all times.

Thank you much for that!
It's interesting that you mention the mysteriously disappearing coolant, as mine has went down by a little in the last month. I have noticed though that there is a drip front the front of the car after I run the aircon for a while; I collected that liquid into a cup and it seemed like just water.

I would keep an eye on this. Especially if you dont have any steady obvious coolant leaks. Also watch your oil. Make sure your oil doesnt look milky. There is a known issue with the 0331 head cracking. Mine falls in this category and I watch my coolant and oil like a hawk. So far so good. (knocks on wood)


Edit: Actually just realized you have a 97. You should be ok with the head. Id definitely hunt down that coolant leak though. I keep cardboard under my jeep in the garage so I can keep track of all the leaks. lol And condensation dripping from AC is totally normal.

I had an idler pulley give up in Death Valley, I now carry a spare.
Spare fluids, basic tools, jack, spare tire that has air in it, lug wrench, a gun, drinking water, warm cloths, and some food should also be included. A spare gas can is also nice to have, safely stowed of course.

have a good adventure!

Thank you very much! Great idea about some clothes and water etc. Sadly, though, living in UK, won't be able to have a gun at all!

The spare clothes and a blanket are a good idea.

Not road related, but I got caught by a hard rain while hiking about 1/4 mile from my pack. I got so cold I almost couldn't walk without falling down. Not a lot colder than that can kill. Mind you it was 105F when I started and after the rain it was back to about 80F, but being drenched with cold water... A dry change of clothes is important.

At least in the UK the rain isn't usually an unexpected surprise like here in the Arizona desert.

Yeah I remember reading that the newer Cherokees had head gasket problems, so that's probably a good idea to keep an eye on that. Also, very good to know that condensation dripping after AC is all normal - it had me a little worried.