Blink43va

So I've been wanting to get into the Jeep scene for a while. After driving around in my Mustang last winter here in Boise, I decided I needed a decent winter/off-road rig. Got tired of sliding around in the ice and snow and like to garage the Mustang whenever the weather is bad.

So I went and searched for a Cherokee. Looked at a bunch of XJ's and finally settled on this one. While the exterior is in bad shape when it comes to the paint there is little to no rust on the frame. I was very surprised. It only had 175k miles on it and it test drove well. Picked it up for $1000... which I think was a pretty good deal.

I've already done some diagnostics on the engine and overall its in great shape. Good results on compression test, leakdown test, and vacuum tests. Cooling system is good for now although my Heater Core valve blew up on me on the trail... luckily was able to throw away the valve and ran new hoses straight to the heater core.

Its completely stock. Flushed/replaced all fluids minus Transmission and Diff's. Plan on doing those soon. I have read to not flush the tranny... just drain and refill. Why is this?

Within a month or so I will start prepping the exterior to do it in Monstaliner. I also plan on lifting it but still haven't decided on a lift kit... so many choices.

I don't plan on putting ALOT of money into it but definitely want to have a decent lift and good sized tires for the occasional moderate trail. My goal for now is slowly replace all the old parts. I have a slight oil leak and decided to replace all the common seals/gaskets while I am at it. I plan on replacing the valve cover gasket, oil filter adapter o-rings, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket next week. From there I will probably replace the thermostat and water pump as well as add new radiator hoses top and bottom. Right now my electric fan isn't working. I need to figure that out. It will not turn on when A/C is on or if the temps go above 220. Generally the Jeep stays at 210 or below in normal conditions. I have only had it go above that when I was off-road in 4 Low.

Any advice on lift kits would be appreciated. I am looking at 3" or 4" lifts. Researched alot but still haven't decided.