Silvershtbox

Hey I’m 15 I got a xj for free I have it just about ready to get inspected,just a little more bondo
iI was wondering what cheap modifications I should do to it. It is a stock 01 L6 4.0 automatic

,Thanks

Rogue4x4

None.

Don't go down that rabbit hole, haha!

In all seriousness, before you start modding, go through it with a fine tooth comb, and make sure all basic maintenance and upkeep is done, have a solid foundation. As you go along, you'll find things to upgrade, make a list as you go, research where you're unfamiliar, and ask questions here, make an educated decision before pulling the trigger.

awg

depends on what you want to do with it...and how much bondo is in it...no use spending money on a pile of rust

If you want to hammer it off-road cheap, a 2-3" lift, bigger tyres, and a some traction aid in the front axle, nothing will keep up with you for twice the price

those parts can be transferred to a subsequent/better XJ..rust is a bigger killer than mechanical

TrailerTrash

Replace the water pump, radiator, thermostat, radiator hoses, fan clutch, serpentine belt, and make sure the fan shroud is intact.

Then give it a full tune up and let her rip tater chip

Also post some pics

Battle

Front and rear recovery points. It likely has none.

XJlimitedx99

THIS^

If you're anything like me when I was 15, you're gunna get some use out of them. A trailer hitch for the rear with a D-ring shackle is nice. For the fronts you can pick up the cheap tow hooks with brackets or spend a bit more for a D-ring system with a cross brace. Pair those recovery points with a nice recovery strap (no metal hooks!).

Another cheap/good mod is an H4 headlight conversion. You can have significantly brighter lights for like $40. Check out the Putco wiring harness.

Sean Unrein

Funny you say that because Im in the exact situation as of right now. Im 15 and have a 92 XJ i got from my father. I imagine since its a 01 its gonna have minimul rust compared to mine. But just in case do some in depth looking on your jeep to find whats wrong with it. Once thats out of the way, Go on google and find some pictures of other XJ's that are built up or kept stock. At first I wanted it really built up and every bell and whistle I could find. For you and I its not in our price range. Also, play it safe and dont dump every penny into a single mod, something could always break and you may need a backup fund. Some extra advice is to always wear protective glasses when under your jeep, XJ's rust like crazy on the undercarage.

third coast

I like roninfoako's suggestions in post #2. Focus on basic repair and maintenance first. Unless you are certain they have been done recently don't overlook items such as front and rear differential fluid change, antifreeze change and brake fluid change. Check the air filter and change the fuel filter. Be environmentally sensible and collect all fluids for recycling. Check all the brake lines for excessive rust and plan on replacement if necessary. The front to rear line and the lines on the rear axle are especially subject to rust. Check the condition of the fuel line that runs alongside the front to rear brake line while you are there. Working on these tasks now will help develop skills and habits useful for a lifetime of vehicle ownership.

Rogue4x4

^^^this guy gets it, lol

Start from a solid foundation, and your building will be strong.

After that, I suggest armor/recovery. Protect what you built, then have the ability to get it out of a bad situation.

In that time, go wheel where you want to, find out where you lack, both driving and equipment, and build accordingly.

Thanks for the backup, man

Chick-N-Picker

Flush & Replace the cooling system unless you know for a fact it is in good shape.

Also relace the fuel filter, fuel filter, fuel filter.

Then after you make sure that & everything everybody said is in good condition, a 1"-2" does help you it look a lil' cooler, but maily it just helps fit bigger tires.

But in all honesty if you get the right set of tires on the right rims they look just as good stock. Since your in a 01 the biggest tire you can go is 235/75/R15. Some guys run 30 or even 31's on older stock XJ's.

So instead of going crazy on high lifts, which meams you have to change so much stuff I'd stay stock or maybe 1-2" with cool rims, then put a little brush guard on, fog lights, rear tire carrier, tail light guards. Things of that nature to just make it look cool.

Just my opinion of course.