Where do I start?
 

1996 Cherokee 4.0 L
As far as I can tell, no modifications.
BUT I bought it as my first vehicle specifically so I could build it into the ultimate Colorado machine.
I want to put the full time and effort into my modifications, specifically for going into the backwoods of the Rockies. Since my family aren't Jeep people, I don't have many places to turn to consider options.

It's a bit broad so I'm sorry, but, where do I start?

Research research research.

I'd say decide if you want to run lcog (low center of gravity) or a big lift then go from there and check out peoples builds.

x2

And I would start with general maintenance. Make sure everything is in good working order. Check fluids, wiring, joints, check for rust spots, etc... all the basics. Then start spending time and money on mods. Personally, I'm in to the performance mods first. Things like CAI, injector swap, exhaust...

Just my .02

Good luck!

I feel like I'd prefer lcog over big lift. The problem is, I know very little about Jeep mods at all. I don't know what important or crucial.

Like he said^

It depends on what you want to use it for, put a lot of research into it and read build threads by people who have jeeps turning out similar to what you want yours to be and see what it took to get there, but if your looking for a direction then research what mods make the most difference in the type of wheeling you are gonna be doing

Definitely, I'm looking to just start some beginner mods this summer when I have the time to focus on it. I don't want to rush through it and find myself with a broken vehicle. I was planning on doing an overall check when I drive back from college this summer, make sure I'm capable of doing what I need to.
I feel the need to do this as efficiently and safely as possible

Look at other jeeps see what u like, a lot of the guys on here have some nice rigs and some built them for fairly cheep. Now if you got the skills and or willing to learn them you can fab up your own stuff and save some cash!

There's an entire thread dedicated to lcog with all of the mods listed. Do a search and you'll find it. :D

Nice man, that's the way to do it! It's cool to really get to know your own jeep and do all the maintenance/mods yourself. You can learn a lot from these forums too. There's always someone around to answer a question, but don't be afraid to search! :thumbup:

I couldn't find more broad threads for a good while, but now that I've tracked some down I'll look through them.
Thanks for your answers, sorry if starting a new thread wasted anybody's time

I saw "performance mods" listed above. Dont bother with a cai, tb spacer, exhaust, its all pointless stuff that does nothing for performance, i speak from experience. The injector swap will provide a better idle and faster start ups, it can be done for cheap so i would recommend that as one of your first mods. Obviously first you want to go through and change all fluids, fix any leaks, maby consider flushing your cooling system if it seems to run a little warm. I would say to start there, you would be surprised how capable the xj is offroad completely stock. Get used to it first and once you have it mechanically sound and you are comfortable with it, then start lifting it and stuff.

Here, this can help you out. https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f67/lo...24-12-a-32980/

Where in Colorado?

Just what I was looking for, thank you!

Colorado Springs