Hey everyone, I'm new to Cherokees. I've been searching the local
classfieds looking for one and there are many to choose from. I need something to take in the woods for fishing, camping, and some wheeling too. I don't know too much about them so I was hoping I could get some suggestions on what to look for. Are there any years/models I should stay away from? And why? Thanks!

 

Avoid any of them made after 2001. Other than that, buying a XJ is just like buying any used automobile.

 

I prefer the 97s up with the newer style interior and stiffer unibody with more sound dampening.. 97-99 is my first choice with 00-01 following.
Here is a good write up detailing the cherokee and its differences.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_Cherokee_%28XJ%29

 

no if you find an xj made after 2001 CF will give you a medal.

 

?


Get a '99, arguably the best year of production.

 

Ah... no, right idea, wrong year.

2000-2001 had a 'weak' head casting that is prone to cracking. Does this mean you should avoid it? Not really, just be aware of it. Thankfully the previous casting head will fit and has no such cracking issues, so take that into account if you get one of those years. When the head does finally crack, you'll want to replace it with an older one. Maybe with some nice large valves in it.

 

i think it was supposed to be a joke or at least i hope so

 

What about the late 80s as opposed to the early to mid 90s?

 

Avoid Cherokees with the 2.8L V6 like the plague (84-86).

4.0L engines from the late 80s are fine, they are Renix and not HO engines so they are down a bit on power (like 17hp and 20ft/lbs, I think? Not a ton). They are just as reliable as their HO cousins, the difference is really just the fuel injection system and intake design.

Pre-91s have a vacuum disconnect front axle. The Vacuum disconnect is probably going to be broke by now, either the motor will be gummed up or the lines cracked. There are several kits to convert them to manual disconnect with a lever, or you can get a kit to disable the disconnect and run them like 91+ front axles which are always engaged.

Some late 80s models have Dana 44 rear axles, which is a huge plus since you don't have to find one later.

Avoid Puegot 5-speed transmissions, they are weak and will break. They were used until mid-89, if I remember correctly. If you do get a Puegot 5-speed, you'll want to pick up an AX-15 at some point so that when it does break you can swap over.

 

Sounds like I will be looking for a 1991 or newer.

 

my 87 is great and other then the ac, everything works. not to be said for lots of those newer ones

 

I honestly think that's more a side effect of how the Jeeps were treated. Everything works on my '93, except for my reverse lights, and it's got power windows/door locks. However it was maintained quite religiously, a lot of these vehicles ended up as first cars for new drivers and didn't get taken care of that well for a few years of their life or more. Case in point, my '94 parts Jeep. It's a mess.

I wouldn't totally discount the late 80s Cherokees, they can be picked up cheap if you know what you are looking for.