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View Full Version : Wanted to buy: 1996-2001 XJ (Tupelo, MS)



scarylarry
03-30-2011, 01:29 PM
Want to buy a nice XJ 4-wheel drive. Don't want a project cherokee. I want one road ready. This will be my son's first vehicle and the Jeep Cherokee (XJ) is his first choice. Located in Tupelo, MS but we will drive up to 300 miles for the right XJ.

Also, I am a rookie to the XJ world so any tips you guys can give me as to any red flags to look for in the XJs would be greatly appreciated.

662.315.4555 or [email protected]

Thanks
Larry

XJ Rat
03-31-2011, 08:19 AM
Also, I am a rookie to the XJ world so any tips you guys can give me as to any red flags to look for in the XJs would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Larry

1997+ have the better 8.25" axle - except for ALL Cherokees that have ABS. They are stuck with the Dana 35, as this is the only axle that came with the ABS option. Avoid it. Marginal system when new, bad for off-road.

1996 - 1999 had high pinion front axles.

1997 are known to have electrical issues. Jeep got them sorted out in the end of 1997. Be careful on any 1997, especially if the owner starts mentioning electrical issues.

1999+ got the better flowing intake manifold.

2000+ got distributor less ignition.

2000+ have low pinion front axle (same as TJ).

2000+ have cylinder head casting known to crack.

With all the above, the 'best' overall will be whatever you can get at a decent price thats suits your needs. If you want to go strictly by year, than I believe 99 without ABS is the one to get. I have a 98 Classic, and I like it.

scarylarry
03-31-2011, 09:42 PM
Thanks for the details. I'll hope and pray for a good 99 XJ.