Another new guy to the forum and to Jeeps in general. I've had 4X4 before, first was an FJ40 Land Cruiser, loved it. Then because I have three kids, a full size Blazer with 3/4 ton axles and 35" tires on 4" lift...GREAT FUN. Now after years of doing with out one, I want to go wheelin' again. I desided on a Jeep this time, thought about a TJ but maybe move room needed? Then was looking at XJ's. Only diff to me is you can't take the top off.
Now for the good part, and the fight starts now....which XJ year is best to start with? I hear the best TJ year is 2000, is it the same for the XJ? I'm guessing the axles and tranfer cases are the same but what auto trans should I look for? I will be using it on road/winter driving about 75% of the time and maybe some local muddy places and a trip to the Badlands now and then, but I will be doing at least 33" mud tires, just like the look. And maybe 5.5" long arm lift, again like the look and I hear the ride is better.
So there you have it, I'm stupid when it comes to Jeeps for let me have all the knowledge you have and thanks
David

 

Hey David...

 

welcome, imo, best year for the xj is '99. better axles, just before head/engine redesign. updated interior (much nicer) and refreshed exterior.

other than that, most all jeeps are the same '92+. same t-cases NP231 or NP242 - both very good. same trannies, ax-15 (manual), aw4 (auto), both very good as well. If you can find a '99 xj w/a manual, you got the best one IMO.

ETA: the knock against the xj vs the tj, is lack of a frame. the good about the unibody is better clearance. put some frame stiffeners on it, and that greatly will improve vehicle rigidity.