So I'm fairly new to my xj and want to put together somewhat of a 'to do list' for her. I figure this could help everyone with ideas on what we can do to these things to make them run better and live longer on and off road.
So lets see what you've done or want to do!

 

Check what oil filter you're running. If it says Fram on it, go to the auto parts store for a different one immediately

 

Really? Is it that bad?

 

Yes. I learned the hard way not all that long ago. It was my first trail ride in the woods (nothing serious), and I had at the time didn't get around to changing the Fram. In the woods, my oil pressure dropped suddenly and it would run like crap on startup....Put a Napa Gold in the next day and all has been great.

And as far as upgrades...Everyone's priorities will differ, but if you're new to it, a good full tune up with cap rotor, plugs, wires, air filter, and all fluids changed is usually a good move.

 

Yeah definitely thank you, actually for the plugs and wires I went to O'Reillys looking for them and they weren't available for them. Is that just O'Reilly? Where would I get them? and for wheeling?
One thing I want to get is quick discos. I had my sway bar disconnected for a couple days and loved it for wheeling but still like the way it feels connected on the streets ( it's my dd). Any other ideas?

 

Changed my response didn't think about it

 

I got Napa Premium wires if I recall correctly. Work just fine, and Champion plugs. Napa brand cap and rotor and air filter too I believe. Not sure what you mean by "and for wheeling?"...these are all-purpose

I have my swaybar sitting in my garage because the end links (stock) I have are shot as well. I never needed it on my Ranger here in PA for inspection, so I'll stay swayless unless it becomes an issue when I go 35's. I like the extra bit of "roll" or "lean" from it!

Oh, another for the thread, upgrade your headlights. Get a Putco wiring harness. Mostly plug-n-play...I have one sitting in my garage waiting to go on possibly tomorrow.

 

Aside from routine maintenance, my favorite mods have been the cheap or free ones. Removable doors (free), removed sway bars (also free), and the lift and 33's (close to $100 for my little lift, and $100 for the full set of tires used). Cowl snorkel is next on my list, I'll probably do that this weekend, shouldn't cost me much at all.

 

I was looking at the cowls but I hear its super loud inside. Do you still get that noise from a regular snorkel?

 

Also wanting some hood vents like the look and it runs a little hot

 

Agreed.
Anything (almost) is better than fram.


Check nanofiber technology with http://www.amsoil.com/

And did I mention? replace all oils with synthetic oil.

 

I don't know about noise from a regular snorkel, I've never had one. I don't mind a little noise from the cowl snorkel, probably won't be able to hear it in my Jeep, but I have heard its a little noisier.

Another upgrade I'll add here, very useful if you wheel much, is a good winch. I know I've needed one a few times, just don't have a way to mount mine until my bumper gets here.

 

I have the Spectre cowl intake, and I love it. Made the engine sound so badass. Honestly, I've probably lost a couple MPG because I can't help but keep it in a lower gear to hear it longer.

Not loud at all in the cabin, just a faint sucking sound when you step on it. I also sealed the firewall adapter with rtv and made sure there weren't any jagged edges for the air to whistle through. It's awesome to hear engine noise instead of exhaust while you drive.

 

The Spectre intake is loud as hell. But I love mine.

Do you plan on wheeling? If so, your very first upgrade should be recovery points, front and rear. This is veryyyyyy critical

 

X2