I rescued this 95 XJ 4.0 from a field where it had been for 4 years. Engine has 137k on it and there are only a couple small rust spots. All in all this is a great platform to start from. I’ve named this build after a dearly departed friend “STAC”.

Pretty dirty right off the trailer.



No rips or tears, just a little Jeep dirt.



This is what 4 years of neglect looks like in the engine bay.

A new windshield is one of the first steps.

He lost a little paint in the wash, but a paint job is in the future, I’m thinking orange...

So much cleaner!


Cleaned it up, it started yesterday for the first time in 4 years, what a great sound!

He cleaned up pretty nice after a power wash.

 

Looks great. I'm glad you got most of the nasty off with a power washer. Make sure you paint any bare metal or primer if any is exposed!

I did something similar - rescued ours from sitting outside in the rain for several years. We have had to do a lot of work on it but I was very happy that in general it started up with no major issues and the work, although plenty, has been relatively minor.

I hope the same luck to you so you can focus on the fun part of your build.

What is the general plan?

 

Thanks for the response!

Ultimately I’m going for a solid reliable overland style build. I want to do a 3” lift with 31x10.5 A/T tires. I’m planning on a LinerX full body coating and a light weight roof rack. I have had my eye on some heavy bumpers with an inset winch on the front. There’s plenty of flexibility in the plan, but the first goal is super reliability in every system.

I got it running and driving last week and found that the front brakes are seized and will need to be repaired/replaced. I also need to take a look inside the transfer case because 4WD isn’t acting quite right.

 

Looks great! Good job rescuing it!
Where in Missouri are you located?