I just wanted to get some opinions from people with more experience than I on something I've been looking into. Found a 1997 XJ 4.0 with 206K w/ a 5 speed and lifted that I want to buy but I would be selling my 99 XJ 4.0 w/ the 4 speed auto. Mine only has 142k on it but is sitting stock right now.

Do you guys think it would be worth it to sell mine and buy this one? The 97 has an upgrade list a mile long but the guy is firm at $4200. Only thing is that it uses 1/2 qt of oil every 6-7k miles. I'm just wondering if I should just keep my auto and do the lift myself since it would only be about $400 more if I go that way and that includes new tires. I really want a 5 speed though lol.

 

I think you have a pretty nice XJ. I wouldn't sell it. 99 is a good year to work with. By the way welcome to the Forum.

 

I say that if he knows that he uses a half quart of oil in 7k miles, then he needs to do oil changes sooner. Who knows what other up keep maintenance he skips on. You have a solid base to build on.

 

A half a quart of oil in 6-7k miles is pretty normal, if not damn good.

 

If yours is in good shape, I would keep it and upgrade the one you have. You have 64,000 fewer miles, can install the parts that you want, and know that it's done correctly. I also prefer an auto over a manual for off road. Its fun to row gears, but can be a PITA depending on the trails you take.

 

If it comes down to 5 speed over Auto, I wouldn't bother. I've been a manual guy with every vehicle but the AW4 suits the Jeep better imo. I wouldn't count the five speed as enough of an advantage in this case.

 

Keep what you have the 99 is a better year to begin with as a base anyway plus you build it exactly the way you want it.

 

I believe I am going to follow the advice so far and pass on it. I did some more thinking on it and I am tending to agree that a 5 speed isn't worth trading for.

 

Mine is a five speed, I already posted my feelings on what you should do. But would like to say something about the tranny. I wheeled my son XJ a little before I got mine. Loved it except for one thing, I hated when I was following some one down hills and had to ride the breaks all the whole time, especially behind some one who goes way so slow for certain conditions. So when I got mine I went with the 5spd. I regret it a lot, but have learned to deal. Stay with your auto tranny! You will be so glade you did.

 

Personally i would keep your if i was you, im not big on buying already modified cars because i dont trust other peoples work. And trust me u dont want to deal the the wiring issues that come with a 97 they can be a real pain in the ***.

 

ive read this a lot. I have a 97 with 170k on it and have had 0 issues with much of anything. I'd like someone with a legitimate case to discuss this.