Drewjharper1900

So i am lookin to get my 1st jeep! very very excited! ive got a 2wd gmc jimmy now and its just not cuttin it.

Its gona be a DD/WW. I want between a 1998-2001. I think i want the np231? I live in Fl so i dont feel like i would ever need the full time 4wd.

Any tips or quirks i should look for when buying 1? Any opinions on diff trim levels or other options that came w/ the cherokee that i would like/dislike?

Irongrave

really i'd look for a 97-99 better heads the 00 and 01 have a few issues and a weaker front axle. Also get one with out ABS as you get a better rear axle the 231 is IMO the
best stock case in an XJ nice and durable. rest get what you like

Drewjharper1900

Okay thanks. I herd that it took em 3 tries on the 97's to get the wiring harneses right. Do you know anything about that?

tommyxj2000

with the 2000-2001 watch out for the 0331 head...casting flaw that cracks between cyl3-4

Drewjharper1900

Also, do you think i would regret getting the np242? Like if i found a nice xj like this 1, should i pass it up and wait for 1 w/ the np231 or is it not a deal breaker?
http://www.autotrader.com/dealers/dd...er_id=56039929

Irongrave

if it dose have ABS thats the deal breaker for me. the none abs rigs have a much better rear axle

Rmart30

242 wouldnt be a deal breaker for me.

Drewjharper1900

Alright thanks. Thats what i was thinkin but wasent quite shure.

Drewjharper1900

The ABS means it has the d35 right? If so i deffently agree. The chrystler 8.25 is a MUST!

Drewjharper1900

Have you had any problems with that?

Acesnines

I haven't, and a lot of people in the forums haven't. I really need to save it, but there was a poll done of 00-01 owners and a large majority of people have NOT had a cracked head. It's something to watch for, but I feel its a much smaller issue than the axle in the long term. Short term, yeah, you want to make sure your oil and coolant aren't mixed. If you're getting an 01, maybe get the oil analyzed before you buy it. If it's fine, all systems go.

Drewjharper1900

Sweet thanks!

Now just to save some more money.....

Im hopeing after graduation ill have enough money to get it. Little graduation gift to myself!

xjmuddigger

i really love my 91 since its so durable so any xj u get will be good,but 97+ has 29spline rear axles and the np231 is strnger but i love my np242 because of the part time4x4

tommyxj2000

not yet but been keeping an eye on it and probably end up replacing it before it does happen

Drewjharper1900

Thanks for all the great info. Been very helpful!

So i think im set on a 98-01. Chrystler 8.25. np231. Preferbly a 5speed but wont be dissapointed with an automatic. Not gona be too pickey on the color. Not sure if i want that gold color though. any opinions on that?