Jeep Cherokee Chief SJ
 

I'm looking into buying one off a friend for $1000 or less. The door sticker says Oct 1975 manufacture date but I believe that means the registration is going to say 1976. Do California smog exemptions apply to the manufacture or registration?

I'll probably get it either way. It has a 401 engine and Dana 44s in front and back.

I apologize if this is in the wrong forum category.

Pretty sure it will be 1976 according to the registration, why not ask your friend? The year for smog exempt applies to the year on the registration, it was produced in 1975 with smog parts to be compliant to 1976 laws.
Still a good grab.

I would definitely get it anyways, they're a little rare at least up here in Montana. There's one I have my eye on for 3,000 so I'd say you have a darn good deal!