Hey guys I'm heading out on a 1000 mile road trip in my 1997 cherokee country from Illinois to Wyoming in a few months. I was wondering If there are any major concerns/precautions I should take so I get don't screw up. I already flushed the trans and engine fluid and replaced it, going to bleed brakes soon, and just going over a few loose ends. Any tips/mechanical issues I should worry about?

 

More related to Cherokee chat than oem discussion but my advice: beer.. Lol

 

In a few months, it'll be time to change motor oil/filter again. Have u changed/flushed engine coolant/antifreeze, power steering fluid, gear oil/diff lube, transfer case oil (if applicable), inspected brake pads/linings thickness, battery, washer fluid, etc., etc.? Good/regular preventative maintenance usually means a vehicle is ready for a long road trip at a moments notice.....get u both there and back. It's much easier to do preventative maintenance in your driveway when the parts stores r open than it is to do repairs on the side of the road when nobody is open. Have a great trip and be safe.

 

I wouldn't go too crazy performing a bunch of major service stuff unless it needs to be done. A 1,000 mile road trip is far easier on your XJ than 1,000 miles driving around the city which you probably already do every month or so, anyway. I take several 1,000+ mile road trips a year in my XJ and I don't do anything to prepare for them other than take care of my Jeep every other day of the year. Have fun, enjoy the drive, don't worry about your rig.

 

^^ Exactly what those guys said. If your Jeep's been maintained and in good shape there's nothing stopping you from making such a trip, especially on a paved road lol. However a lot of basics are frequently overlooked.

 

Yeah as long as all the maintenance is up to date its good to go.I would carry some extra fluids a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher just to be on the safe side.And make sure your spare tire is good and full of air and a working jack.