I'm itching to get back into a Cherokee after not owning one for 5 years. I used to post in this forum a lot about a decade ago and really respect the wealth of knowledge here. I've owned 2 XJs in the past, a 94 and 98, but both I had to get rid of for various reasons. I'm looking for another, preferable a 97-01 model. Any tips or items I should be looking at during my hunt? I'm mainly looking for something stock that I can turn into a camping mobile, ham shack and generally just throw money at as I attempt to return it to factory glory.

I've got a list of:

• rust
• oil in coolant
• transmission slippage
• death wobble on freeway
• electrical shenanigans

The youngest XJ is almost old enough to buy a beer, what else should I be looking for if I'm looking for something I can still use but also have fun restoring? It won't be my daily driver.

 

Brake, Transmission & Fuel Lines.
Shiny new parts. (Nice to find one with a new A/C Compressor)
Leaf Spring Shackles & Bolts. (If you plan on lifting it, this will tell you how much fun the job will be)
Rear Main Oil Seal
Look behind rear bumper end caps for rust. (Rust likes to hide there)

I got the itch too, to get another Ol' Reliable. I just bought another Cherokee after 10 Years without one. I had two in the early 2000's. I've been runnin an 06 LJ since 2015, and man the Cherokee is a much better daily driver than a Wrangler.

 

Nice! Thanks for the suggestions on places to look for rust. I'm going to go look at a 98 later today!