Buying a cherokee that doesn't run..
 

So i've been searching for a Jeep Cherokee for awhile wanting to buy one really bad. Found this jeep cherokee on craigslist for $1000. Says the only thing wrong with it is that it has a bad fuel pump, and needs a back glass window. 4 door cherokee 5 speed 4x4. How can you tell if thats the only thing wrong with it or how do I tell if thats the problem. Plus let me know if this is a good deal and all i know is whats on the craigslist ad itself. Thanks.

Link: http://knoxville.craigslist.org/cto/5721027147.html

Not running?

No more than 500.

Bottom line.

If you don't know how to diagnose or troubleshoot these issues, take it to a mechanic first. DO NOT take the seller's word.

Back glass will run anywhere from a few bucks (20-40 or so) from a JY or partout, to several hundred from a glass guy. So take that into consideration.

If the seller is unresponsive to the $500 offer, RUN AWAY.

1000 bucks is high for it not running and the front end damage it has.Get a can of starting fluid take the intake tubing off the air box spray it with the starting fluid if it starts then it is a fuel problem if it don't then its something else.Honestly i see it worth 500 bucks maybe 650 if does run on starting fluid.

After looking at those pics, I'd keep looking.

Did you see the side exhausts on it ?Off road youd pinch that shut lol.

Thanks guys, sorry if i looked stupid, only 17 years old trying to find a cherokee i can build if i sell my truck for $2,800. Trying to get the cheapest route there.

heres another jeep i've been looking at, i'm really wanting a 5 speed cherokee. (because diving automatic is lame).

Link: http://knoxville.craigslist.org/cto/5702271160.html

Don't go cheap if you don't know much about working on cars. Spend and get one in good condition.

It may not be the cheapest route, chasing someone else's neglect. Good on ya for trying to find a project and learn, but be smart about it!
Don't knock driving an auto. Again, I commend you for wanting to drive a stick, as it is kinda getting to be a lost art: That said, autos have their place. I like crawling. So a stick is out of the question. Got tired of burning clutches, LOL
Agreed. Again, a project is fine, but a lost cause is another. Unless you have deep pockets, time, and patience, get the best you can as a platform. Get it running tip-top, and mod after.

Look for one as virgin and as nice as you can afford.

If your new to the xj scene then try to find a bone stock rust free cherokee and build it up from there. That way you know it hasnt been thrashed. You will spend more money trying to fix someone elses problems than if you just bought a nice clean STOCK cherokee and build it slowly as your budget allows yourself. Hope this helps!! Welcome to the forum!

The two you posted each weigh about 3500 lbs and are worth about $282 each as scrap, something to keep in mind
What kind of truck, how did you arrive at $2800?

$282 as scrap?!? Man I want to be where you are its $0.005 (yes half a cent) per lb. so it's worth less then $20 here.

I have a 1994 nissan hardbody i've replaced alot of stuff recently all at one time (and i mean alot). Most of the Cherokees i've found that are decent/good looking, are automatic; and i've been trying my best to steer away from them. I guess i'll have to go for one, even though I find it boring to drive an automatic.

After you have changed a clutch on a 4x4 a few times you kinda don't want one after that.