Hey guys.. just bought my first XJ.. a 93 Country model with Up Country package. Its a real cream-puff that's been maintained to the max. I am concerned about the transfer.. it's the 242 not the more desired 232..also has anti-lock brakes which i read can be problematic.. at least early ABS... Basically I'm after reliability as i like to drive up into the mountains in Oregon..WAY up into the mountains.. but don't wanna walk home! Any help is appreciated.

 

Welcome to the forum.

The 242 isn't a bad transfer case, it just doesn't have the aftermarket support the 231 does.

If you have abs, you have the dana 35 rear axle. That is your weak point. I would look for a chrys 8.25

 

What is your plan for your XJ? Light trails, rock crawling, mudding,or all of the above? If you're just going to be using it as a daily driver with some trails every now and then, just drive it with no worries. Even if you plan on more difficult wheeling, wait till something breaks before replacing parts. The rear axle is the weakest link on your XJ.

 

Thanks guys.. I'm gonna just enjoy my new toy 4 awhile.. maybe start looking for a little tougher rear diff... btw..which locker do u suggest for the 8.25? How about the Dana 44? Your input is appreciated. Hawkeye

 

The Chy 8.25 is about as strong as a D44 the later model XJ's with them came with a 29 spline axle, plus a direct bolt in not so for the D44.

I have a "Detroit Locker" in my Chy 8.25 with a 4.56 gear and 33x12:50x15" tires no problems off road on some difficult trails.

 

I have heard bad things about all the abs systems in an xj. Mostly the system doesnt work right. Not sure how you could take it out.

 

False the dana 44 out of a cherokee is a direct bolt in for another cherokee. Now between the d35, d 44 and Chrysler 8.25 you will need a drive shaft that is meant for which axle you choose since they are different lengths. But once you get the correct drive shaft it will all bolt in.

 

Un plug it. Did it on my old xj when it decided to pulse on one wheel. Never had a problem after that.

 

What does "maintained to the max" mean? Is the glove box full of recent receipts for parts/repairs/maintenance items? If not, presume nothing has been done by the PO and get after it yourself before u head for the hills. Shiny paint doesn't mean a vehicle is a reliable "get u there AND back" daily driver......and dull paint doesn't mean a vehicle is a POS.

We installed a PowerTrax No-Slip auto locker in our C8.25 XJ 4+ years ago.....it's been flawless. 2 hour instal, no special tools, no messy with ring/pinion set-up.

 

Maintenance on this xj was over the top. I'm a career mechanic nearing retirement.. brother is retired mech and had taken care of this rig since new.. he took time to go over rig with me bumper to bumper prior to purchase...i had done my xj homework.. trust me it's MORE than well maintained. Thanks for ur input.. it's appreciated.

 

Should read... previous owners brother... thx

 

That's good to know......the definition of "cream puff/maintained to the max" can be all over the map.