Just bought a '98 Classic 2WD with 112K. Since the '97 XJ we have is ill with wiring problems (non-working gauges, spliced wires, stumbling 2nd gear) I am putting it aside and converting this '98 to 4WD. I have a '99 XJ Limited parts Jeep with low mileage (4.0/Automatic/NP 242), so the plan is to slide everything out of it and into the Classic. I'll use the front and rear axle assy as well to keep everything intact. Will be installing some suspension/engine upgrades while I have it apart such as new gaskets and seals, new timing chain/oil pump, cold air intake, Flowmaster with twin tailpipes, 2 inch lift, ZJ steering parts, and 30 inch tires on '98 ZJ wheels. Should make a nice highway cruiser and able to handle the off-roading I have to do in business. Interior will have ZJ front seats (with the Limited's power tracks) and rear seat fabric to match, improved sound system, Dynomat floor covering under the carpet, and a total cleaning. Exterior will have moulded rear bumper lights, driving and fog lights in addition to the stock ones up front. LED lights on all blinkers and parking lights if available.

The goal is something that will be smooth for the highway miles, able to traverse NE snowy conditions, look clean and respectable to customers and get me back home every time with no problems.

I welcome any suggestions and ideas before I start this build for this winter's driving!

Thanks!

 

Pics of the Jeep when we got it home. First order is to strip the insides out for cleaning and mods. Once that is done, I'll get a 2 inch lift to install when I start the 4WD conversion.

 

Please take lots of pics for me i plan on doing the conversion to my 97 but my buddy did the 2 to 4 on his 93 maybe this will motivate me to do mine

 

Will do. It should be easier in my case, since I have 2 complete last gen XJ 4WD Jeeps to pull parts from. Keep the 1 as a photo reference in case I get confused. Everyone should own 3 of these! Plan on selling parts off the other 2 that I don't need.

 

Pictures of the donor Jeeps (green '98 Sport 4X4 and white '99 Limited 4X4) Plenty of parts to build it!

 

3 jeeps! I'm jealous.
love seeing conversions.

 

The little '97 with non-working gauges - soon to be CL'd, ha ha. I put a lot of $$ in this one, but it's the reason for this build.