Hey guys, after months of searching, I finally found an XJ to buy. Now, before I get ***** deep into modding/personalizing it, I want to double check the mechanics of the Jeep. Visually, she passed everything with flying colors and the service records look to be in order but I would feel significantly better if I were to get a little more hands on with an inspection.

My question to you guys is, what things should I check specifically now that I can get the truck up in the air? I pretty much have decided that I am going to do a full tune up, probably take care of the entire brake system, and really get a good look at the front end suspension. But if this were your new ride, what would you guys do?

PS - first two pics of the Jeep are viewable in my garage

 

A good place to start would be the fluids. Oil, both differentials, and transfer case. Might as well do them all for peace of mind. Also, with the jeep running, set the e brake and put the jeep in neutral. Then check the transmission fluid via the dipstick. Make sure its nice and red and not low on fluid.

 

Grab the tire when it's in the air and check the rolling resistance and see if there's any side to side movement. (wheel bearings).

After driving it, park it, take note of what fluids it drops on the ground.

 

do this before changing fluids obviously. that way you can change gaskets and fluids in one fell swoop.

I'd suggest checking the condition of the coolant. possibly flush the heater core, rad, and engine separately.

biggest issues mine had we're fluid leaks and the cooling system.

 

Service items

• All fluids: Oil, coolant, differential, transfer case, transmission, power steering, brakes.
• Cooling system: Radiator, cap, water pump, thermostat, all hoses, Fan clutch
• Flush cooling system
• Replace distributor, plugs, wires, coil.
• Clean Throttle body
• Battery
• Battery Cables
• New brakes/rotors.
• New front and rear wipers
• Serpentine belt
• Air filter
• O2 sensor
• Valve Cover Gasket (leak) and 2 PCV valves
• Oil filter adapter (leak)
• 4 new shocks
• Tranny mounts
• Motor mounts
• Seal rust (floorpans, doors, rockers, etc)

Things to inspect

• Replace tires?
• Replace Clockspring? (airbag light, no horn, no cruise control)
• Any burnt out bulbs?
• Check exhaust (muffler and catalytic converter)
• Cracked Exhaust Manifold?
• Any cracked vacuum lines?
• Secure rattling 4WD shifter?
• Driver’s door check pin and bracket (popping door?)
• Fix all windows (motor, bypass lock switch)?
• Flush clogged radiator core?
• Hood Release Cable?
• Replace Rear Liftgate Struts?
• Replace worn suspension (Front Lower Steering Stabilizer, Front SwayBar Bushings and End Links)
• Replace worn U-joints
• Replace worn Wheel bearings
• Squeaky steeering wheel? Lube Steering Column Boot (from inside)

Optional service items before they die on you

• Alternator
• CPS/CKP sensor
• Replace TPS (throttle position sensor)
• Replace IAC/ICV (idle control valve/motor)
  
• Starter
• Fuel pump and filter
• Temperature sending units (2)

Optional upgrades

• Headlight harness upgrade
• New Headlights
• Transmission cooler
• Replace center console
• Replace carpet
• Replace seats

 

What can you add to the inspection checklist?

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Now I can say some of what you post is right but all of that is just over kill and unnecessary bimmer. The OP already sounds like he knows more about vehicles that someone like you who would need a list like that.

Bummerjeep: Death wobble isn't just 30-40mph it can range at any speed, some as low as 15, more at 50-55 mph