New from AK! Have not purchased anything yet but I am actively searching. I do have it narrowed down to a late 90's Cherokee 4.0L though. Anything in particular I should be looking for when i go check different rigs out? This will be my first jeep. Thanks!

 

Since you are in Alaska, you should check for rust. Check craigslist list everyday and you will eventually find your cherokee. Good luck in your search. Welcome to CF.

 

Alaska, love to visit there.

Hi and welcome, from a not so desirable England.

 

welcome to the site

 

welcome

 

Check engine bay for leaks on top side, check underneath for major oil leakage on ground, belly for signs of long time oil leaks like soaked undercarrige/trans. Leaking transfer case, and pinion seals. anything repositioned items like vacuum resivior next to battery due to damaged stock bumper. bodylines not matching up due to accident/wreck. check for tow hitch, no hitch, trans prolly in good shape from not abused towing with auto trans.
Door hinges cracking at welds check, corners of roof/door opening cracked from flexing. If of a year with OBDI or OBDII check for codes or plug in analyzer to check for cleared and not fixed/stored engine codes.
Check under rear seat carpet/bolt heads for signs of rust, damp smell. Seat condition, tears, carpet wear/heavy use.
Tire condition, wear patterns, dry rot.
Window seals, especially windshield for signs of leaks like damp front carpets...
Check kbb.com for hints of price adjustment for condition.
Oil color on dipstick and level, trans fluid color/smell on trans dipstick on auto.
Sagging headliner could indicate A/C not working. On road test steer from side to side and listen for bad hub bearings. Brand new tires may mean a suspension/bearing problem hidden by just putting on tires instead of fixing problem.
And thats just a start...Good Luck and Happy Trails...
BTW...Welcome!

 

 

Thanks all! Found one I like and I'm going to check it out tomorrow. I'm in no rush to buy so I'm hoping to swindle as much as possible. May be tough though these Alaskans know what they're doing when it comes to swoopin on some good rides. Thanks for the tips ands here's to hoping I come out with a nice set of wheels.