Hello all,

This is my first post of probably many. I currently own a 2000 Cherokee Classic. I have 170,000 miles on her and counting. All stock except I replaced the Dana 35 with a 8.25 a few months back. I got word a couple of weeks ago I'm going to be relocated from Dallas to Fairbanks, AK. I'm really excited for the opportunity to move to AK. However out of all the things I'm about to sell I don't want to let go of my Jeep. I am prepared to drive to Washington and take the ferry into Alaska with my Jeep and Dog. I understand that the winters are a Monster to deal with up there so I just wanted to get a few things done before I move. Its cheaper to get that stuff done in the lower 48 that's why I'm asking. Any mods I should do as well. I don't want to go large tires and lift yet I'm loving stock life.

I already know Oil change, Fluid Change, Flush Radiator and Heater Core. I am going to order a winter tire set up (any recommendations?) and ship it with the household goods that I am going to keep. I have a almost 2000 mile journey to Washington then an additional 500 miles to get to Fairbanks. I want the car to be reliable getting there so any other ideas. Also any recommendations on what I should get done to the car when I arrive in Alaska?

 

Welcome!

For winter tires, take a good look at the Kumho AT51. I have these on my Grand, one of my sons just put them on his SporTrac, and another son has the HT51 on his Escape. (That's more of a highway version of the same tire.) I also have another model of their tires on my Sienna van.

These things are GREAT! Best kept secret in Jeeping! Not for serious mudding, but very capable for mixed use. The van tires are the only ones I've had in snow so far, and they are one of THREE tires in that class that is considered an all season tire, but has the mountain snow rating. They handle snow, ice, and rain better than some dedicated winter tires. I'm expecting good things out of the AT tires for that reason.

As for mods, consider a block heater and an oil pan heater (could also be used on the transmission). Possibly a battery heater, too. You can have them all wired together so you only plug in one place. Route their cords all into a waterproof electrical box, and connect them to a recessed male electrical receptacle, and now you just have to pug in one extension cord.

Some things to research:

• Should you run straight coolant instead of 50/50?
• Oil weight (I'm pretty sure you don't want 15-40 Rotella in that climate!)
• Gear oil.
• Transmission fluid.
• Crankcase fluid.
• Windshield washer fluid.

Sounds like fun! Are you going to Eielson ?

 

50/50 coolant
$30 block heater
5w30 dino oil

all u need


i live between alaska and seattle, it gets -50f here, both my 98s are fine, had a battery blanket on my 92, never bought another one, dont need one

i live 10 miles up a logging road, last house on the powerline, have hakkapelitta LT studded tires on both jeeps (31x10.5 15)

winter front is handy, but dont have one, dont need one

 

A battery blanket and a block or oil pan heater will take you a long way. Plugging your Jeep in at night can really help cold morning starts and get heat in your rig faster.

As far as tires go I I have studded Cooper Discoverer M+S on my truck and Jeep. They work great for me. To be honest you should be able to find a used set of whatever studded tires you want for a good price. Tire turnover is pretty high up here.
Also if you can, pick up a spare set of wheels to mount your winter tires on. Makes it way easier when its time for "changeover" season.

For what its worth, stay on top of the rules/regs on whats current with the AMHS. I think they are always changing.

Good luck man. Keep us updated on your PCS.