Would like some input from Cherokee owners
02-02-2013, 09:20 AM
#16
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Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
He asked for XJ/regular cherokees or grands. The ZJ and WJ are Cherokees and they're based off the XJ platform which is why this site has sections for them. The ZJ was designed by AMC as a replacement for the XJ before XJs even hit lots in 1983. It just never happened under AMC and Chrylser decided to build them in addition to XJs. They didn't become their own platform until 2005 when the WK came out.
02-02-2013, 09:37 AM
#17
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Year: 2001
Model: Cherokee
X2 ^, Way more expensive though... Just looked at a 04' w/95,000 miles for $ 9,825.00. Awesome Jeep though.....
02-02-2013, 10:53 AM
#18
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I know cherokees are xj's... and that the grands are not the same beast as the standard cherokees or as everyone is calling them XJ. But in searching I use the term "cherokee" when I am searching for sale listings and of course both kinds are returned in the results thus my asking about both.
As I have said before I would rather habe a cherokee standard model XJ over the fancy grand models which ever two letter designator they may be. However if I cant find an xj in a decent price but can find a grand in the range I am wanting to stay a loyal jeep owner so a grand might be bought.
Also as far as the boat being towed, it is a 14ft V-bottom fishing boat with a 25hp outboard. I move the jeep around without a vehicle on the trailer in my yard so I do not think a v8 is required and the furthest I would tow it would be no more than 10 miles... I live 1/8th of a mile from the main landing to launch from...
I saw somewhere that the probably best in ones opinion year for an XJ was the 96 model year... anyone else agree?
As I have said before I would rather habe a cherokee standard model XJ over the fancy grand models which ever two letter designator they may be. However if I cant find an xj in a decent price but can find a grand in the range I am wanting to stay a loyal jeep owner so a grand might be bought.
Also as far as the boat being towed, it is a 14ft V-bottom fishing boat with a 25hp outboard. I move the jeep around without a vehicle on the trailer in my yard so I do not think a v8 is required and the furthest I would tow it would be no more than 10 miles... I live 1/8th of a mile from the main landing to launch from...
I saw somewhere that the probably best in ones opinion year for an XJ was the 96 model year... anyone else agree?
Last edited by dBusteR; 02-02-2013 at 10:58 AM.
02-02-2013, 10:55 AM
#19
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Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
I know cherokees are xj's...
Also as far as the boat being towed, it is a 14ft V-bottom fishing boat with a 25hp outboard. I move the jeep around without a vehicle on the trailer in my yard so I do not think a v8 is required and the furthest I would tow it would be no more than 10 miles... I live 1/8th of a mile from the main landing to launch from...
I saw somewhere that the probably best in ones opinion year for an XJ was the 96 model year... anyone else agree?
Also as far as the boat being towed, it is a 14ft V-bottom fishing boat with a 25hp outboard. I move the jeep around without a vehicle on the trailer in my yard so I do not think a v8 is required and the furthest I would tow it would be no more than 10 miles... I live 1/8th of a mile from the main landing to launch from...
I saw somewhere that the probably best in ones opinion year for an XJ was the 96 model year... anyone else agree?
02-02-2013, 08:22 PM
#20
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Year: 1989 Laredo
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 L 6 Renix
You have a tough pick to make.
I like em all.
The 02WJ with heated leather is a plush spoiler.
The 95ZJ is an under the radar snow beast!
The 89 XJ is retro, just like me.
The 05KJ is a sleeper with the performance chip and cold air intake and tows a sailboat nicely.
Building the 89MJ, perhaps that will combine some of the best features?
Obviously you need to get more than one!
I like em all.
The 02WJ with heated leather is a plush spoiler.
The 95ZJ is an under the radar snow beast!
The 89 XJ is retro, just like me.
The 05KJ is a sleeper with the performance chip and cold air intake and tows a sailboat nicely.
Building the 89MJ, perhaps that will combine some of the best features?
Obviously you need to get more than one!
02-02-2013, 09:51 PM
#21
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02-02-2013, 09:55 PM
#22
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xj = 4.0 engine, aw4 trans, 231/242 tcase
this is the **** you want.
zj/wj/wk = other engines, chrysler trans, viscous couplers.
this is the **** you run away from
this is the **** you want.
zj/wj/wk = other engines, chrysler trans, viscous couplers.
this is the **** you run away from
02-03-2013, 10:55 AM
#25
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Year: 1993 YJ Wrangler
Engine: 4.0 I6
Ignore rzldzl.
Now, the biggest problem with Renix motors (1987-90) is the cooling system. It's closed instead of open, which makes it a little harder to work on. It's only problematic because most of them are ~25 years old. I converted mine to the newer style with all new parts, and I no longer have trouble.
1996 is regarded as the best year for the old body style ('84-96). You get all the tweaks, upgrades, and changes from over the years, including the CHMSL (third brake light) and the side-impact beams that were added to the doors in '95.
If you get a newer style XJ ('97-01), look for a '98/99. Again, it grants you upgrades over the '97 model year, but you don't get stuck with the 0331 head or distributorless ignition system and (I think) 4 O2 sensors of 2000/01.
ZJ is the moniker given to the original Grand Cherokees, started in '93. I recognize these by the rectangular headlights.
WJ is the generation of Grand Cherokee after that, started in '02(?). These are a huge aesthetic improvement with a new set of available features.
Every generation of each vehicle has its own problems, but you can minimize the problems by shopping carefully.
If you get an XJ, since you're towing, look for one with a Chrysler 8.25 rear axle instead of the weaker D35. Cherokees with D44s exist, but are nearly mythical.
If you get a Grand Cherokee, don't be impressed by the D44 axle in the back. It's a weaker version. Suitable for your intended use, but not a big enough deal to be the deciding factor in your purchase.
As they said, a NP242 transfer case would be better for you than a NP231. The 231 allows for 2WD, 4HI, Neutral, and 4LO. That's good for rough terrain and loose surfaces. The 242 adds another option: Full Time 4WD. This allows you to use 4WD on solid surfaces like paved roads.
Aaand now I'm tired of typing on my phone. Let us know if you have more questions.
Now, the biggest problem with Renix motors (1987-90) is the cooling system. It's closed instead of open, which makes it a little harder to work on. It's only problematic because most of them are ~25 years old. I converted mine to the newer style with all new parts, and I no longer have trouble.
1996 is regarded as the best year for the old body style ('84-96). You get all the tweaks, upgrades, and changes from over the years, including the CHMSL (third brake light) and the side-impact beams that were added to the doors in '95.
If you get a newer style XJ ('97-01), look for a '98/99. Again, it grants you upgrades over the '97 model year, but you don't get stuck with the 0331 head or distributorless ignition system and (I think) 4 O2 sensors of 2000/01.
ZJ is the moniker given to the original Grand Cherokees, started in '93. I recognize these by the rectangular headlights.
WJ is the generation of Grand Cherokee after that, started in '02(?). These are a huge aesthetic improvement with a new set of available features.
Every generation of each vehicle has its own problems, but you can minimize the problems by shopping carefully.
If you get an XJ, since you're towing, look for one with a Chrysler 8.25 rear axle instead of the weaker D35. Cherokees with D44s exist, but are nearly mythical.
If you get a Grand Cherokee, don't be impressed by the D44 axle in the back. It's a weaker version. Suitable for your intended use, but not a big enough deal to be the deciding factor in your purchase.
As they said, a NP242 transfer case would be better for you than a NP231. The 231 allows for 2WD, 4HI, Neutral, and 4LO. That's good for rough terrain and loose surfaces. The 242 adds another option: Full Time 4WD. This allows you to use 4WD on solid surfaces like paved roads.
Aaand now I'm tired of typing on my phone. Let us know if you have more questions.
Last edited by NewKindOfClown; 02-03-2013 at 11:11 AM.
02-03-2013, 11:08 AM
#26
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Wow lots of great input to include using 4wd on pavement. 
I see listings for a 96 as well as a 98 both listed for i believe $2995.... i think it might be from a small garage type dealers and i think i might try to talk them down to say $2500.... how does that sound? The pictures show no rusted both are green and the one has some funky scoop looking thing at the top of the windshield. They are in the results and if someone wants better links to give feedback i can get the direct links.
I see listings for a 96 as well as a 98 both listed for i believe $2995.... i think it might be from a small garage type dealers and i think i might try to talk them down to say $2500.... how does that sound? The pictures show no rusted both are green and the one has some funky scoop looking thing at the top of the windshield. They are in the results and if someone wants better links to give feedback i can get the direct links.
Last edited by dBusteR; 02-03-2013 at 11:12 AM.
02-03-2013, 11:17 AM
#27
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Wow lots of great input to include using 4wd on pavement.
I see listings for a 96 as well as a 98 both listed for i believe $2995.... i think it might be from a small garage type dealers and i think i might try to talk them down to say $2500.... how does that sound? The pictures show no rusted both are green and the one has some funky scoop looking thing at the top of the windshield. They are in the results and if someone wants better links to give feedback i can get the direct links.
I see listings for a 96 as well as a 98 both listed for i believe $2995.... i think it might be from a small garage type dealers and i think i might try to talk them down to say $2500.... how does that sound? The pictures show no rusted both are green and the one has some funky scoop looking thing at the top of the windshield. They are in the results and if someone wants better links to give feedback i can get the direct links.
02-03-2013, 11:52 AM
#28
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Wow that was a fast reply... so I should be equally as fast...
Here is the 98 -- http://lacrosse.craigslist.org/ctd/3442960273.html
Here is the 96 -- http://lacrosse.craigslist.org/ctd/3442886259.html
I know they dont give much info so I definitely would have to get more but from what is shown or shared...
Thanks in advance! You all here have been so helpful!
Or would you take a look at this one, granted they dont have any photos but it too is a 98 and I am sure could be wiggled down a little especially for cash.... http://lacrosse.craigslist.org/cto/3524769375.html
Thanks again
Here is the 98 -- http://lacrosse.craigslist.org/ctd/3442960273.html
Here is the 96 -- http://lacrosse.craigslist.org/ctd/3442886259.html
I know they dont give much info so I definitely would have to get more but from what is shown or shared...
Thanks in advance! You all here have been so helpful!
Or would you take a look at this one, granted they dont have any photos but it too is a 98 and I am sure could be wiggled down a little especially for cash.... http://lacrosse.craigslist.org/cto/3524769375.html
Thanks again
02-03-2013, 12:02 PM
#29
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Year: 1993 YJ Wrangler
Engine: 4.0 I6
They all look good to me. Notable: The '96 has a CB antenna mount above the rear tire. Also, that windshield cover is called a Lund visor (named for the company who made them). It's worth a pretty penny to Cherokee guys.
The downside is none of those appear to have the 242 transfer case. It certainly wouldn't be a deal-breaker if I were in your shoes, but I would like to have the option to use 4WD if it starts raining while I'm towing a boat.
It will come down to features and preference for you. Do you like the old or new style interior? Do they have A/C? ABS? CD player? Cloth or leather seats? Etc...
The downside is none of those appear to have the 242 transfer case. It certainly wouldn't be a deal-breaker if I were in your shoes, but I would like to have the option to use 4WD if it starts raining while I'm towing a boat.
It will come down to features and preference for you. Do you like the old or new style interior? Do they have A/C? ABS? CD player? Cloth or leather seats? Etc...
02-03-2013, 12:31 PM
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So what is it that the 242 transfer case gives you? If it on the fly 4wd?
How could it be told from looking at those two ads that they did not have 242's?
Are none of the other transfer cases any good for 4wd?
Basically from what was seen on those ads they are so close that it would be features and interior that would be the deciding factor and or the Lund visor?
How could it be told from looking at those two ads that they did not have 242's?
Are none of the other transfer cases any good for 4wd?
Basically from what was seen on those ads they are so close that it would be features and interior that would be the deciding factor and or the Lund visor?