My 95 XJ build. Codename: Patches
 

Well, I finally get to start driving my Jeep coming up on the 1st. I'm greatly excited. Not just for the obvious reasons of owning my own vehicle and being mobile but I can put so much of my own time, energy and skill into. When I'm not studying, I can work on my Jeep. I plan on going off-roading and exploring Colorado. It can also keep my head clear and help me deal with some of my PTSD and tendency to isolate myself. Soon I can build it up and turn it into the trail-ready, daily driver and head turner I want.

From initial Inspections, I noticed several things that solutions can be made for.
1. Rusted floors
2. Heater is busted
3. Speakers are crapped out
4. Headliner is crapped out
5. Doors may need some work
6. Oil pressure fluctuates
7. Windows need dressing
8. Replace seatbelt (possibly)
9. Find new upholstery
10. Rockers are toast

I'm trying not to go broke investing in new tools but a few I have now and on the way.
1. Eastwood 135 MIG welder
2. Second-hand Craftsman Mechanics tool set
3. Michelin stealth wiper blades

The next set of items of great need will be gathered rather cheaply and will be made into effective replacements.
1. Sheet metal for entire new floor and any other possible needs
2. Heater core and AC unit.
3. Possible new oil pump
4. Grinder and various metal working tools (Dremel, Skill-saw, Sawz-all??)
5. Tune-up

Wow so much to do. Honestly, I think this Jeep will be more of a rescue. A year or two from now, once I've pushed over the 300,000 miles I think it will have rescued me as much as me rescuing it.

Rocky Mountains... I will come to you.

Nice can't wait to see the build

How do you like that eastwood mig 135, I bought one a month ago and haven't been able to use it yet cause it's got a defective drive motor and they're going to send me a new one but they're on back order til mid may. Have you had any trouble with yours?

My welder is in the mail. I can't wait to check it out. Are they paying for the return shipping on the defective drive motor?

They're just gonna send me a new one for free I don't think I have to send mine back hopefully. It all seems pretty beefy and well made other than that. Hope you have better luck with yours

Ill be watching your build :)

Did some driving around town finally. It's great to see that after 21 years and 279k miles, the engine and transmission feels great and responsive. The drivability is pretty good.

Though I can tell the winters have been tough on it. The rust is pretty apparent. Found a large rust hole on the passenger side rear panel. I heard this is where they tend to hold water. The creaking and rear twisting is pretty loud . The rear leaf springs and shocks might need to be replaced. As there's alot of roughness on the regular road. Some of these roads in Thornton needs some attention.

All in all this Jeep has character. I wouldn't trade it for nothing.

Purchased all new wipers and bought some wiper fluid. Found out the rear one still works and sprays but the front doesn't spray anymore. I bought a Haynes Manual today as well.

Additional focus:
Remove carpet
See how far the rust has spread
See which body panels need rust repair

Consider roll cage
Consider new suspension package
Consider time between semesters do these things haha