97 V8

I am an XJ guy so i wanted to ask about a 97 Grand Cherokee with 270,000. Guy is asking $400 and doesn't know much about the vehicle as it was given to him. Cosmeticly will need a new front bumper. I want to know if there is anything to look out for mechanically. Claims to have a clean title and I will be looking closely for rust. Any other suggestions to look out for with this year and engine? Thanks!

If it's solid mechanically, think I'll be able to flip it for a little money?

 

The engine is a pretty solid design, but there are a few things that can pop up. The plenum plate gasket will blow out and you will start sucking oil into the intake manifold. If you keep getting a misfire code for the same cylinder you can bet on having a cracked cylinder head or the valves aren't sealing. You won't lose coolant or oil in most cases, just have a misfire code. Rust under the plastic body cladding can be an issue. Then there are the same things as an XJ to look at, cooling system, ect. But for 400 buck you can't expect much to be good. Post pics and keep us informed.

 

Thanks for the info.

I was going to show you the pics but the craigslist add seems to be gone now. Hmm. I spoke to the guy on the phone and am supposed to call and meet him tomorrow afternoon. We'll see and I'll let you know.

 

Never answered his phone.

 

At that price for a V8, I'm not surprised. It's gone.