Which XJ to get?

Question

Having already picked up my first Jeep vehicle, an 03 Rubi (ducking flying tomatoes), the missus and I have certainly broadened our experience of what enjoying the backcountry can mean. Previously and still occasionally, we would haul our camping gear on our backs to the most remote locations. The Rubi now makes it possible to go to nearly the same places and be able to bring chairs and tables!

While we love the Rubi, sometimes its absence of space is a little limiting. Normally we schlep gear in the Subi Outback, but it definitely wouldn't make it up to the top of the John Bull trail. So, something with more space and good off-road capability is in order. Ability to tow without getting pushed around by the trailer is also a plus.

Had considered the 1985 Toy Pickup or 4Runner for it's fuel injected engine and solid front axle, but they are rare as hen's teeth around here. When they do show up, they are usually pretty built-up (beat-up) and command >$3000.

On the other hand, there are LOTS of XJ grocery getters that are popping up on the market, now that the IFS SUV's seem to be the rage. Pretty cherry condition and probably never seen any off-road use, mebbe not even had the transfer case used! I'd like to get it for moderate off-roading (Single Black Diamond) and modifications for as little dinero as possible. Don't know much about XJ's though. I saw the write-up in one of the Primedia mags on the sub-5K XJ build-up for Moab which gave me some ideas.

-Which years/options are most desireable and why?

-Which years should be avoided?

-What sorts of special wear and tear need to be looked for in the XJ design?

-Which mod's will yield most bang for the buck? Fender-trimming, lift, bigger tires, anything else? Do I really need a new bumper?

Thanks in advance for your learned opinions.

John Davies · Accepted Answer

The latest JP magazine has an article about which years/ options of XJs and other Jeep models to look for.

Had a 91 - it got around very nicely on the trails, but it was like driving in a can of loose marbles.

John Davies ex-'91 XJ, now a '96 Lexus LX450 with sliders, bumpers, 3 e-lockers, MTRs, OME

Matt Macchiarolo · Answer

In '92 or 93 they designed stronger unibody loadbearing members so the bodies wouldn't fold in on themselves after 100,000 miles. '97 was the subtle body changes and major interior overhaul. 2000 saw a redesigned intake manifold, good for a few extra HP.

Any model with the four cyl engine, GM 2.8L V6, Bendix EFI, or the turbodiesel. Personally I would avoid anything prior to '93, just from a general age/condition point of view, and by that time they eliminated the problematic front axle disconnect.

On the 4.0L I-6, look for leaking valve cover and/or oil filter adapter. Both relatively easy fixed. The Crank Position Sensor tends to be problematic on older I-6's as well.

A modest 3" lift will fit 31x10.5" tires. You'd need a new bumper if you want to install a winch. If not, definitely install adequate tow hooks.

Good luck. My '93 found a buyer, otherwise I'd offer it to you!

* * Matt Macchiarolo
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Steve Cowell · Answer

...Look for leaking/corroded rear output shaft on the transfer case (CommandTrac only)... later ones had the boot to protect this vulnerable area.EarlierXJ had a problem with the rear hatch lock busting out of the fiberglas...fixed by '93, at least.  Look for the missing manifold vacuum plug... if I'dnoticed mine during barter, I could have used it for a few points, perhaps.It should be capped... find it on the vacuum routing sticker ("unused").I've been looking at the Draw-Tite front hitch receiver... lots of neataccessories,including a winch mount good for 8000# straight pull (only 300# vertical, sono GodsMustBeCrazy fun).  Cheap, too... has tow hooks built in.__Steve.

Kevin in San Diego · Answer

I have that front hitch. I wonder about putting 8,000 lbs on it though.KH

Rich Pierson · Answer

My preference is for a 98 or newer, 5 speed, AC. 97 was the redesign where the hatch was changed to steel, interior was redone. Downside is that they went to a slip yoke on the transfer case around 95 I thinks, this means that you will need to add another $500 to any lift over about 3". Heck, even the factory upcountry option had driveline vibe problems and that was less than 2" over stock. Older XJ's check door hinges, specially the 2 door versions. Look for rusted out floors under the rear seat. I have a 98 w/181,000+ miles on it and still love it, no lift but I'm running BFG AT/KO's in 235/75R15's, front and rear skids, front and rear hooks, goes everywhere I've wanted it to go and carries plenty of stuff, alot more since I added that 65" safari rack up top. We have our own web site at

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just for XJ's and MJ's. "Steve Cowell" wrote in news:s8L6b.458$ snipped-for-privacy@newssvr23.news.prodigy.com:

Snow · Answer

drivetrains and parts are still stocked at most stealerships, the bodypanels are the same as earlier models (84-92).  97-2001 are pretty much thesame as each other as well, they share the body design (was redesigned in97).As stated above, avoid the 2.8 v-6 (unless its for body parts), I would evenagree with avoiding the four banger as well.  The inline 6 is a very old andvery proven design, it will give thousands or miles (kilometers) of reliableservice.As someone said.. Watch the floor..Both in the passenger compartment and inthe cargo compartment I have had to do work in both these areas.Snow...93 XJ... 90 percent stock and 95 percent new parts..

Which XJ to get?

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