Project 'keep it simple stupid'
 

Figured I'd throw up my 'build' and join in the fun.

Recently bought my 88 XJ with 80k miles. It was BONE stock when I got it. I plan to do some meaningful yet simple upgrades. It will be used mainly to ride trails/camp with my boys and wife as well as occasionally pull my bass boat.

After fixing vacuum issues relating to the HVAC system (also causing bad idle) I did the basic tune up and oil/filter changes.

Then for the 'build' stuff..

Starting out small and basic.
First upgrade was different wheels tires. Tires are 235/75/R15 to allow me to maintain stock suspension height. I don't really plan any hardcore wheeling but wanted the look of the MT's and functionality should I ever get in a tough spot. We have 40k acres of Wildlife Mgmt area 10 mins from my house that we ride the trails often.

I then installed a set of Rancho RSX shocks for stock height.

Ordered and installed some Husky floor liners, front and rear.

Bought and put on a Reese rear receiver hitch (Class III/IV).

Then put together a 'must haves' kit in the rear utilizing a large plastic storage tote and some ammo boxes. It includes basics like small floor jack, hatchet, tow strap, basic hand tools, jumper cables, survival knife, canteen, extra oil, trans fluid, coolant, etc.

Future plans possibly include upgraded bumpers, winch, and possibly a very basic 2" lift. I'm sure there will be more as this site is full of great ideas.

Here is a before (right at time of purchase) shot and an after shot (after wheels/tires but before hitch install. Need to get some better pictures soon.

Glad to be here and part of the Cherokee forums..

Wheels and tires look awesome! You gonna trim the fenders?

Not planning on trimming the fenders at this time. Haven't had any issues yet and like the look of them.

If anything, I will do a 1.5-2" lift.

Thanks!

Ended up getting a 3" RC lift off a wrecked XJ. Here it is with the rear installed (today).
Still have to do the front. Here is a before and after. I also changed from 235/75/15's to 31x10.5's and added some D window wheels to replace the painted bullet hole wheels.


I need to get the front lift installed as I can't drive with these tires on without significant rub issues.


Before then after.. (again have only installed rear so far).

Those 235s looked BA, I thought they were 31s in the picture parked on the lawn.

Looks good. I was planning on keeping mine close to stock but in the process of doing maintenance decided to lift it. Been looking for a set of 31's to go with it. What tires did you end up with?

Went with the Mastercraft Courser MXT's. Seem to ride good and not much noise.

Got the front done today. It's been raining for days but I was determined to get it finished. Sorry for the crappy picture..


Seems to ride well. Still need to get it to the shop to have the alignment checked.

Another..

Looking Good!