First off hello everyone. I know this has prolly been played over and over in here, but im fixing to buy a Cherokee for the Deer Lease. It will mostly be trailered back and forth but occasionally driven there too. Whats everyones take on motors. I like the 4.0 and heard lots of good on them, but im seeing a lot of 4.7s for sale. Just don't want to make a bad choice. any input would be really appreciated. And thanks in advance.

 

Avoid the 4.7 V8, they are weak and have some major issues. The 4.0 May not be a power house, but it is very reliable and can take a lot of abuse.

 

The cherokee and grand cherokee are two different suvs.If you want a v8 one get the older zj 93-98 those used the 5.2 or 5.9 in the 98 limited.

 

4.0 has enough for what you need. It's not a race engine, but was actually designed for the job it does. It has lots of low down torque and it's tough. A straight six is a very smooth engine, I'm willing to bet there are a lot of XJs running on five cylinders out there and the owners don't even know. Some TLC will bring em back to full health, they're hard to kill.

Check for rust, coolant and rusty coolant

 

I have both 4.0/4.7 my 4.7 is an HO motor but with 211,00 on it and have never had a single issue with it. Does not use a drop of oil between changes (6,000 mi) and would think nothing of driving it coast to coast.


My 4.0 has 220,000 on it and no real issues either other than not a lot of power.

 

If you take care of a 4.7 it will give you years of trouble free service. If you give it just a little abuse it won't like it. The 4.0 almost likes to be abused, like a cheap ***** with major daddy issues.

 

This is sig worthy.

 

5.3 vortec

 

One of the best 4.0 statements I've ever saw.


About taking care of an engine is true 98% if the time on any car, I have always been a bit **** about that.