What are the cherokee choices?

[Jeepin?]

Hey, I'm new to the whole 4x4 Jeep thing. I'm looking into buying a bone stock 4x4 cherokee so i can build it up myself. I've been doing some research on XJ but i can't really find answers to all my questions.

-What's the best year for the XJ and why
-What year is just no good
-What year did the HO engine start coming out

In addittion, in my area there are way more 4x4 grand cherokees forsale than XJs. So i have been thinking about buying a grand cherokee instead of a XJ. I really don't know anything about the grand cherokee. Can you guys give me some info or rederict me to a site where i can get info on the grands or give me some pointers? Also, what do you guys think about the V8? I hear a lot, once they get up to 100K miles they are GUNK. Is this true and what kind of problems might i have with them.

thanks,
John-Paul

 

[Bounty__Hunter]

Welcome to the Z.

The 4.0L HO was produced from '91-'01 in the XJ. If you want a decent model take a look at the '95-'00 with the tow package, it'll have the strongest axle combo available as well as an external transmission cooler.

If you look at Grand Cherokee's, stay away from a transfer case that doesn't have a 2wd option. They're known for problems over 100k.

 

[Jeepin?]

thanks for the info. I picked up a cherokee last week! this thing is so much fun! I've been into the whole desert race seen for a while now but i must say, 4wheelin is SO much fun. i really enjoy it.

 

[Pops]

I'm an old timer,but I learned more in three years of off roading than 5o years of road travel ....Good luck & all the best POPS