Hey All,

So I know this isn't my usual XJ post, but I have a few questions about the ZJ. Me & my Mom decided we want to buy a back-up Jeep just in case anything happens to our XJ's. I.E they don't start, outta gas, or GOD FORBID an accident...I like the Older Style Grand Cherokees actually. (ZJ'S) Could anyone give me pointers to look out for? I know the 4.0 Inline 6 is the choice I'm going with. But, anything else I should know about? Weak transmissions? I heard that once somewhere. I know it's not a proper question in a XJ Forum, but I'd just like to know for future reference. I see these ZJ's for sale for $800-$900-$1000 a piece and I find it kind of odd that a Jeep would be priced that low. Thanks in advance!!

 

Anyone...? Feel free to help.

 

There's not as much demand for them because the niche market for people who build them is nowhere near as big as XJs and they were produced in greater numbers to begin with (more supply, less demand, lower prices). The vast majority of people who bought them were families, soccer moms, ect. People who for the most part kept buying newer versions.

Fortunately for us it keeps the prices down. Currently (or the near future anyway) in the market for a loaded 98 myself for a DD.

 

Transmissions can be an issue if they have been abused or neglected, they only came with a D35 rear axle until 96, then the D44a was used in the v8 models. Look for one with a NP231 or 242 transfercase, the NP249 is not a very good case and it's full time 4wd. Check to make sure all of the electrical goodies work. You will find that most of the ZJs out there were adult owned and unmolested, so the chances of hacked up wiring and lifts are kind of ruled out. Don't overlook the V8 models, drive one and you might just want one.

 

The v8 is worth it imo. Don't let it not being as reliable as the 4.0 keep you from looking at them. They're good motors and there are few motors out there as reliable as the 4.0s are.

 

Thanks guys! We just started talking about a second Jeep one day and thought it might be a good idea to invest in one. Now I know what to look out for!

 

iv had 2 98 zjs. Both v8. I loved the jeeps and at over 450k miles between them never had a problem. Almost got another one but I couldn't pass up a Comanche.