burt5885

I know i could use one of these and im sure anyone else new to jeeps in the future would like to use this as well.

I want to see if i can get the experienced guys on jeeps here to put together a list/guide on buying jeeps.

Things to look for, problem areas, tips on different models, just all of it.

Anything would help us noobs out, thanks guys!!!

joshtimber

Why type of guide you are looking? I mean which model etc.

Derp

probably means cherokee.

spazzyfry123

Buy mine!

no rdplz

Um, you do realize what the name of this forum is right?

This by no means an exhaustive description of the entire Cherokee line up. But, this might give you a good starting point when looking.

Gen 1
84-86 XJ's:
could get either the 2.5L 4 cylinder or the 2.8 V-6 sourced from GM (avoid the 2.8!) These years are harder to find as many have been scrapped due to accidents, rust, or simply being 25+ years old.

85-87 XJ's:
2.1L TurboDiesel was available - these are hard to find. Thought the diesel engine is a hard find, late-year 87's can still be found without too much hassle.

87-96 XJ's:
the 4.0 became available, replacing the 2.8 V-6. '91 was the first year of the Chrysler "High Output" 4.0. These model years are the most common years for XJ's. 95-96 are the best years to try to find as they can be found with the 27 spline 8.25 rear axle.

No real changes were made to the XJ other than drivetrain updates. Different trim levels provided different options (overhead console, wood grain, power seats, leather, etc), but generally prices shouldn't vary much. The Sport, Country, and Laredo packages will be the most common. Most owners will hold to '96 XJ's being the best model year of Gen1.

Gen 2
97-01 XJ's:
The first major update to the XJ was made. Softer edges, tie-in bumper caps and flares, and a redesigned interior (cup holders!) were all part of the update. Another update was the 29 spline 8.25 rear axle. The 2.5L can be found up through the '00 models. '00-'01 saw a change to the 4.0. The head casting was changed to what is commonly called the "0331 head". This casting has a bad reputation for cracking when the engine overheats, but it's not always the case. The 4.0 also recieved a new design for it's intake and exhaust manifolds, resulting in a modest (3hp, 6ft/lbs ) increase in horsepower and torque. '00-'01 XJ's also received a low pinon Dana 30 up front. Sport models are the most common, and prices will generally be higher for the Classic and Limited models due to many options on the SE and Sport being standard equipment. Most owners will hold that '99 XJ's are the best model year of the Gen2's.