I currently own a 2001 2WD XJ. I've decided to look for another XJ but a 4WD one for an all out off road toy.
I'd like to stay 96 or above but what years, if any, are the better for a build?
Probably max out at 35" tires with the appropriate lift/long arm suspension.
Any advice?

 

1999 (before they switched to 0331 heads on 99's built after 6/99) is the best year and most overall reliable year... Get one with the factory tow package(with trans cooler) and make sure it has the 8.25 too. It has the upgraded intake manifold but not the bad heads and it is the quietest and safest year for the XJ(97 remodel gained structural reinforcements and passenger dummy, so the body won't bend as bad on trails).

 

96 and 99 for each different set of body styles.

 

X2, I like the 96 better though.

 

x3

 

Like everyone else said 96 for old body style, 99 for new body style.

 

+1

 

i will have to agree, although i will say it's close for the '96 and '94 because of not being able to disable the airbag on the '95/96. Or maybe you can, but i found it to be a pain.

 

You just remove the airbag and put on an old jeep steering wheel or aftermarket one, about as easy as changing your tires.

 

'99 with AX15


Why would you want to disable the air bags?
it's illegal any way.

If your worried about it going of while wheeling, mine never has.
you could pull the airbag fuse for off road and put it back in when on road.

 

i like 98 and 99, i picked my 98 because i HATE C.O.P. doing a tune up is SO much easier with a distributor, and i dont see how a cop equipped jeep is more reliable then one with a dizzy.

 

link to show how easy it is to remove?
it happened to me on something i'd never expect it to happen, so that's why i'm saying first hand.

can't simply remove a fuse on pre 96.

edit: removal for 95/96 not as bad as i thought... http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=943272

 

Plus once you remove the 95/96 airbag from your trail rig, you can get one of your friends really good. hehe

 

renix FTW (90, non abs)

 

And a 93 with 8.25