I'm thinking about buying another Cherokee...this time an 1989 Laredo. It is 4x4, 4.0 inline in good shape with 123k on the clock. Price is high but quality is good. I'm not going to off-road it.

My question, is the 4.0 engine and drivetrain in these early years as good as they are in later Jeeps? Anything to look out for?

I had an '86 a long time ago with a Chevy 2.8, srewed-up Select Trac electric 4x4. But I still loved it right up until the little engine blew.

 

Yes it will be good if u treat it right.

However how meticulous clean it is, I still recommend you to do the Cruiser54's mostly renix tips when u get it.

Along with changing all fluids.

 

The Renix era Jeeps are great. I've had 3 of them, I won't buy a newer XJ. My 87 was the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned, up until the engine blew at 250,000 miles, and it was abused most of its life. If you maintain it, it will last a long time, mine definitely could have lasted a lot longer.