Falling out of love with XJ rant

[CLOISER]

Just got back from Atlanta. My total trip was 254 miles, I burnt through 16 gallons. That's just under 16 MPG. I got a 5-speed 4x4 (stock upcountry, Aussie front, forgot to mention I do have a bike rack on top and moose guard up front), just put in new cat, new muffler. This probably wouldn't bother me (I don't expect much better from the Cherokee) but the other day I drove a 2008 Dodge 1500 quad cab 2WD with 450+lb in the bed. Cruised at 75MPH ~2000RPM, I could hear myself think, didn't notice the payload (even stopping), and got better mileage VS my unloaded Jeep.

Anyhow I'm starting to realize how dated the Cherokee really is. I'm guessing most vehicles have progressed 2 generations since the Cherokee was phased out, and 3 generations since my '98 rolled out. I love my Cherokee, but WJs are looking better and better everyday...

Anybody else falling out of love? :rattle:

Only people I brought this up with were my mother & GF, the mom has hated the Jeep since I brought it home :laugh2: and the GF likes it until she has to ride in it :laugh2:

[JJacobs]

It is what it is.. none of those qualities should surprise any owner going in. We're all here anyway.

Oh, and this is chit chat. :)

[CLOISER]

It is what it is.. none of those qualities should surprise any owner going in. We're all here anyway.

Oh, and this is chit chat. :)

:wierd:

[Joshooha]

why don't down to whiney burger and get some french cries.

[CLOISER]

why don't down to whiney burger and get some french cries.

:jester:

[CherBear]

Wait... You bought a Jeep for mileage?

Well theres yer problem...

[CLOISER]

Wait... You bought a Jeep for mileage?

Well theres yer problem...

Ya, 19 highway out of the box man!

When I was 19 (when I bought it) & in college it seemed really nice and reasonable. But now that I'm growing up it's starting to become more and more ridiculous (though I haven't stopped throwing money at it :roll:). The ride quality (loud, bouncy), fuel efficiency (nobody is getting 20MPG, if you are, you're dividing wrong), limited capability (low payload, no towing, etcetera) are really dated. I wish Jeep had a comparable vehicle these days cause I hate the JK, KJ, other new models I don't know the names of :laugh2: . Maybe I'm trying to justify moving on...oh well. I think I'll either have to get a second car (like many of the adults on here), or try to find a solid substitute.

[winterbeater]

19 hwy is good for a 4WD vehicle. If you want mileage, get rid of the extra crap you put on yours.

[wolfpackjeeper]

I was falling out of mine until I swapped in the stroker.

The MJ is starting to get boring as well, but I have an LSx swapped planned for later this summer which should improve performance and mileage.

[Mtb Jak]

you obviously haven't been wheeling enough...

[CLOISER]

19 hwy is good for a 4WD vehicle. If you want mileage, get rid of the extra crap you put on yours.

Somebody's angry...but seriously, maybe I'm the only one falling out of love...

I'm gonna say the main competitor to the XJ that still exists is the 4Runner and that gets 22MPG highway, come on man H2s (did) get 19MPG! I just got a major love-hate relationship with the Cherokee: love (looks great, off-road ability, great on camping trips) hate (on-road is horrible, loud, limited towing, only fits 2 "comfortably"). This topic is gonna turn into a major :flame: -er in a moment as I've seemed to pull on some heart strings.

I need a second car!

[CLOISER]

you obviously haven't been wheeling enough...

:D

I like that response

[CLOISER]

I was falling out of mine until I swapped in the stroker.

The MJ is starting to get boring as well, but I have an LSx swapped planned for later this summer which should improve performance and mileage.

Wow, be sure to post pictures. I don't see any of that in my Jeep's future though :roll:

[CanMan]

why don't down to whiney burger and get some french cries.

Want some cheese with that whine?

[Mtb Jak]

hahaha the only way I justify my pigs road manners is by its capability off road! It does ride smoother then stock with the LA and OME shocks tho!

If I had a stock cherokee I would have sold it a long time ago!

[CLOISER]

hahaha the only way I justify my pigs road manners is by its capability off road! It does ride smoother then stock with the LA and OME shocks tho!

If I had a stock cherokee I would have sold it a long time ago!


ya, maybe just need to throw some more money at it :yelclap: . I don't spend nearly as much money on my Jeep as others on this board. It's got a front locker, full skids, rear trac lock, and when I had a winch up front it could probably follow most lifted unlocked Cherokees.

Where you from in NY? Saw the plate.

[xjtrailrider]

I love my XJ's, all 5 of them. My Hemi Commander gets better mileage than the XJ's do but I wont sell them. They are what they are, a brick with a antique inline six in it. When the Commander dies in 15 years the bricks will still be running right along. You can't put a price tag on dependability.

Some folks are not cut out for XJ ownership, those folks should buy a Prius or something like that.

[FlexdXJ]

come on man H2s (did) get 19MPG!



Haha, yeah sure they did! :D

Seriously though. Its an XJ they aren't really that comfortable. they make tons of noises and they have the aerodynamics of a brick!

That said mine isn't going anywhere! :D

[CLOISER]

I love my XJ's, all 5 of them. My Hemi Commander gets better mileage than the XJ's do but I wont sell them. They are what they are, a brick with a antique inline six in it. When the Commander dies in 15 years the bricks will still be running right along. You can't put a price tag on dependability.

Some folks are not cut out for XJ ownership, those folks should buy a Prius or something like that.

:laugh2: I'm pretty sure the XJ was designed as a mall cruiser, you're making it sound like a flat-fender! But it's true, the I6 is a monster and tough as nails. Still surprises people when they see under the hood.

[CLOISER]

Haha, yeah sure they did! :D

Seriously though. Its an XJ they aren't really that comfortable. they make tons of noises and they have the aerodynamics of a brick!

That said mine isn't going anywhere! :D


Come on, I got that from B Obama's site. He wouldn't mislead the people.

I don't think I have the heart to let it go either, just ranting. Looking to pickup an Impala for long drives & travels. Except to the beach, the Cherokee loves the beach!

[xjtrailrider]

:laugh2: I'm pretty sure the XJ was designed as a mall cruiser, you're making it sound like a flat-fender! But it's true, the I6 is a monster and tough as nails. Still surprises people when they see under the hood.

The XJ was designed to be a affordable(even disposable)/all weather 4wd that just happened to start the SUV craze. By todays standards it is an antique.

A push rod in-line six is a thing of the past now, they are nearly impossible to make efficient.

[FlexdXJ]

Come on, I got that from B Obama's site. He wouldn't mislead the people.


Now why would the president lie to us! :dunno:

[UNCC_99XJ]

Noisy, uneconomical, and old. But it's down right reliable and the fact that there's still tons of them on the road today...even tons of renix's pretty much sums it up.

If you ever start feeling down about your XJ, go for a ride in some Japanese tin can...then jump back in your XJ..you'll quickly appreciate it again!

[CanMan]

It would get better MPG with a carb on it.

And make more power.

Something to think about.

[FlexdXJ]

Noisy, uneconomical, and old. But it's down right reliable and the fact that there's still tons of them on the road today...even tons of renix's pretty much sums it up.

If you ever start feeling down about your XJ, go for a ride in some Japanese tin can...then jump back in your XJ..you'll quickly appreciate it again!


or drive a Cobalt for a few weeks while waiting on an insurance check! :puke:

[CLOISER]

Noisy, uneconomical, and old. But it's down right reliable and the fact that there's still tons of them on the road today...even tons of renix's pretty much sums it up.

If you ever start feeling down about your XJ, go for a ride in some Japanese tin can...then jump back in your XJ..you'll quickly appreciate it again!

good call thanks

[dudeinanxj]

I sold my 00 XJ because I was bored of it and needed some cash. After wanting a ZJ/WJ as a replacement, I ended up with a 97 XJ due to funds. I was happy when I sold it, I didn't like it a few days I bought it even though I tried to like it by putting money into it. I wanted something more comfortable and more room, so I bought a 98 ZJ. I wanted a WJ, but again funds was the limiting factor. It's a night and day difference on comfort between the XJ and ZJ. I am very happy I made the switch, even though it has the 4.0, but with 3.73 gears and 30s, it's rather peppy. I will never own an XJ as a DD again. Maybe as a trail rig though. All in all, I feel your pain and would recommend the switch.

[4WDlifeform]

Not to brag, but I get over 20mpg HWY... haven't quite figured out city... but, not complaining!

My XJ is still new to me... I'm having a blast with it! maybe what you could use is a little project! Add something to it (that doesnt take away from the gas mileage) like new driving lights? re-paint something? the hell I went through with my previous rig makes me love the XJ so much! I'm not going to say this is the BEST vehicle, but it is sure worth the extra gas, the extra noise, and the (pain?) of dealing with your passengers being squeezed in the back! The XJ is an awesome vehicle. That's my 2 cents haha. Good luck!

[WrenchMonkey]

A stock XJ used as ordinary daily transportation will seem crude and out-of-date by modern standards, because it is crude and out-of-date by modern standards.

It was cutting edge back in nineteen-EIGHTYFOUR! Were you even born yet? Would you even consider another daily driver, designed during Reagan's first term?

The XJ is still relevant, not for basic transport duties (as was said, buy a damn civic) but because it was an anomoly. It was designed way back when "JEEP" meant something, when capability was at least as important as comfort and economy.

Name another platform that lasted seventeen years. Hell, the front axle, suspension, and steering were used - unchanged - through the 2006 TJ!

The XJ is an icon. Its impact on the automotive world is till echoing after a quarter century.

If it doesn't get quite the same mileage as a design two decades newer, I don't know what to tell ya.

Oh, yeah I do: "Buy a Honda."

:D

Robert

[JJacobs]

It would get better MPG with a carb on it.

And make more power.

Something to think about.

:huh:

[kastein]

A stock XJ used as ordinary daily transportation will seem crude and out-of-date by modern standards, because it is crude and out-of-date by modern standards.
Mine is a hybrid vehicle... it's quite up to date! It has V8 ZJ, Ford Explorer, 97+ XJ, and Home Depot components in it...

It was cutting edge back in nineteen-EIGHTYFOUR! Were you even born yet? Would you even consider another daily driver, designed during Reagan's first term?I'd consider a J20 Honcho or a 60s/70s Mustang I guess :dunno: I'd love to get an M35A2 or an M715, but clearly not as daily drivers.

My MJ has a hell of a lot better ride than my XJ, probably because the control arms are at a much more reasonable angle and the springs aren't quite as stiff :confused1 go figure, right? It rides like a Cadillac... albeit a very bouncy one with an indisposed mountain lion stuck under it.

[CLOISER]

Mine is a hybrid vehicle... it's quite up to date! It has V8 ZJ, Ford Explorer, 97+ XJ, and Home Depot components in it...

I'd consider a J20 Honcho or a 60s/70s Mustang I guess :dunno: I'd love to get an M35A2 or an M715, but clearly not as daily drivers.

My MJ has a hell of a lot better ride than my XJ, probably because the control arms are at a much more reasonable angle and the springs aren't quite as stiff :confused1 go figure, right? It rides like a Cadillac... albeit a very bouncy one with an indisposed mountain lion stuck under it.

:laugh2:

I'm liking this thread. I'm not bashing the XJ, I love it. But it really is starting to dawn on me how low tech my ride is. So don't get take it personally guys!



If it doesn't get quite the same mileage as a design two decades newer, I don't know what to tell ya.

Oh, yeah I do: "Buy a Honda."

:D


Come on man, the buy a Honda line is over-used way too much. Try harder! :laugh2:

[kastein]

... buy a Toyota? :dunno:

[xjtrailrider]

... buy a Toyota? :dunno:

And stomp on the accelerator.:laugh3:

[CLOISER]

And stomp on the accelerator.:laugh3:
:roflmao:

99 posts in 7 years...

[CherBear]

And stomp on the accelerator.:laugh3:

Nah, Toyotas go WOT by themselves these days... :laugh3:

I think what most people on here are trying to say is that we didnt buy our XJs for the qualities you seem to be looking for. So if the XJ isnt for you, then sell it. Im sure some one else will buy it that will appreciate it more.

[WrenchMonkey]

Come on man, the buy a Honda line is over-used way too much. Try harder! :laugh2:

Yeah, well, so is the "My XJ gets shitty mileage" line...

Ask a stupid question...

:passgas:

Robert

[crimsondragon]

I just bought a 98 XJ last night. It's a definite upgrade from 1990. I'm amazed at how nice the interior looks right now. I'm stuck in the 2000 era. All these satellite radios, bluetooth, drive by wires, etc...I just don't understand it. I'll have to admit though, my latest tech upgrade is the cd player in the ricer. I went with a Kenwood that plays cds and has a USB drive. I have a tiny 8gb drive full of music and it is the best thing ever. I'd like something like that in the Jeep as well.

[hubs97xj]

But it really is starting to dawn on me how low tech my ride is

Don't take this as condescending, but rather curious. How old are you? Is this your first vehicle?

[GhostDakota]

I miss my Cherokee's but I am happier with my Silverado, TJ, and motorcycle right now. Just my opinion :)

[CherBear]

Don't take this as condescending, but rather curious. How old are you? Is this your first vehicle?

Age has nothing to do with mindset. Im 19 and love mine.

[themangeraaad]

I can't say I ever fell out of love... but I did fall out of touch with my XJ.

I got an altima back in May 08 and have been driving that since. At first I missed the XJ, didn't like driving the altima. Then I still didn't like driving the altima, but was willing to put up with it (and I forgot about how much I loved the XJ), plus I loved getting 30mpg, though I was getting 30mpg but paying higher insurance and have a monthly bill... that kinda kills the money I save.

I just got back into my Jeep after 18+ months without it. This time it's going to be locked, regeared, and well... just more trail worthy all around. I will leave it at "I am buying another Jeep to make my DD". Already have it lined up.

My only question is whether I will keep the 4.0 or drop an LS1 in it. Even though I liked my fuel economy in the altima... idk... I had the "I could get used to this new car" thing going on for a while and sitting back in an XJ destroyed that thought process in a matter of seconds. The Jeep just feels right :)

[IslanderOffRoad]

I have a Honda for a DD and my Jeep to play with.

Best of both worlds.

[WB9YZU]

My 98' Stock 5spd Upcountry gets 24 hwy and around 16 city with the stock tire/wheel combination. That's about as good as you're going to get with a 4WD SUV unless you get a RAV4, Suzuki Vitara, or a Honda Pilot. The new Jeeps are not rated better, and neither is the Cherokee's nearest competetor, the Xterra.

The Chevy Colorado I drive at work with a 2.8L gts 26 hwy, and around 17 in town and is not nearly as useful as my XJ.

So far I have stuck with the Cherokee due to it's dependability, parts availability, and the fact that I understand how it works (most days) and can work on it myself.


Ron

[themangeraaad]

My XJ seemed to get about 20mpg highway (on summer blend fuel) even with the 3.5" lift and 33x12.50s. Those 33's were probably closer to 32s when I got them, and are now pretty close to 31s... but yeah, still oversized (and on stock gearing). For fuel economy in the XJ I think the 5 speed is 100% necessary. Most people I have talked to stock or modified with a 5 speed didn't complain much about fuel economy. Those with the auto tend to be the ones who complain about 13-14mpg :rof:

As I mentioned I am picking up another Jeep for the DD. I am getting an MJ and I can't wait. I could say that I have an altima and a Jeep so best of both worlds... but as I mentioned the monthly insurance and loan payments kill the fuel savings. Plus the altima SUCKS. Rotors have warped twice, seat frame broke (the electric recline gear stripped and the fix was replacing the entire seat frame), airbag had a bad sensor or something, electric windows have been acting up.... I can't wait to get back into a vehicle that I know works and I know how to fix it when it doesn't work. :) I hate that tomorrow I get to spend my day doing brake rotors on a 2008 altima... just doesn't seem right.

[CLOISER]

Don't take this as condescending, but rather curious. How old are you? Is this your first vehicle?

I'm 25, been driving XJ for around 7 years. Had an International and Taurus before I got it. Actually things would be fine if I still had the Taurus, unfortunately it is rotting away somewhere. You can't deny XJ is low tech, I mean the new JK has a computer in it or something (for the driver to fiddle with).

[FlexdXJ]

I sold my 00 XJ because I was bored of it and needed some cash. After wanting a ZJ/WJ as a replacement, I ended up with a 97 XJ due to funds. I was happy when I sold it, I didn't like it a few days I bought it even though I tried to like it by putting money into it. I wanted something more comfortable and more room, so I bought a 98 ZJ. I wanted a WJ, but again funds was the limiting factor. It's a night and day difference on comfort between the XJ and ZJ. I am very happy I made the switch, even though it has the 4.0, but with 3.73 gears and 30s, it's rather peppy. I will never own an XJ as a DD again. Maybe as a trail rig though. All in all, I feel your pain and would recommend the switch.


Don't worry I like the 97! :D I thought about a ZJ for a while but just couldn't see myself without an XJ so I bought 2! :D They ride a little rough and they make noises like I said but on the highway they ride pretty good even with MT's. In town though they tend to suck but Mine does what I want it to do and has the minimalist design that I love!

[YELLAHEEP]

I only wish my XJ got 19 mpg........

Try 10.5 mpg for a while. (6" lift, 35's, 4:88's)

That's why my '04 Dodge Cummins 4x4 3500 dually crew cab is my daily driver at a whopping 14.5 mpg...... :looney:

[stephenspann27]

My '87 XJ gets 20mpg hwy. .and around 16 city... but I'm stock.

I've had the same thoughts running through my head that you are have now. Everyone gets bored with what they have.. and they start seeing only the negative aspects of it.. and looks past the pros.

For instance.. I got a '95 Z28 M6 LT1 camaro when I was 17.. it was my 3rd vehicle.. I ran it pretty hard.. and when things would break.. it would be down for a while.. like when I spun a rod bearing it took my dad and I 3 months before we got it back together. During that three months I was telling ppl "when I get it back together.. I'm selling it! .. sick of working on it" But.. you know how that goes.. as soon as I started driving it.. this time with a cam.. I was back in love again. I've been through that same experience with that car many times.. its just too fun to get rid of.. I still have it.. I'm 25 now..

Now.. I bought my XJ.. because I need to repaint my Camaro and I needed something to drive while I was doing the body work.. after buying my XJ.. I really fell in love with it.. and started dumping way more money into it than I intended. I go through the same motions with my XJ that I do with the camaro.. I had to pull the motor in the fall and rebuild it.. I was trying to find buyers for it during that time.. now that I have it back together.. I"m in love again.

I"m sorry for rambling, my point is, if you have a tendency to get bored and frustrated with vehicles, get two.. and bounce back and forth between them.

[Joshooha]

Well I have had my XJ for 3 years now, its a '92 and now that I started wheeling it harder and harder, there are more clunks and squeaks on a daily basis...to me that adds "personality", its also my daily driver, and has been that way for about a year...and I'm still not sick of it, everytime I see it I fall in love again. Just do some more mods to it and you will begin to like it again!

[XJEEPER]

All vehicles are a liability. They are designed to transport you from Point A to Point B is a realtively safe and timely manner.

When you push them outside of their designed parameters, they have the potential of becoming time vacuums and will produce no measureable ROI of the additional money you'll invest in modifications.

That being said, I'm unable to take a stock vehicle to the places that I want to go and explore, so I've "redesigned" my XJ to enhance it's offroad capabilities. There is give and take to every change you make to your rig.

I communte about 60 miles daily in my 2000 and owe nothing on it. I average 16mpg, with 6" lift, 33" tires and 4:88 gears.

I've run the numbers in the attempt to cost-justify purchasing another vehicle that gets better mileage so I can park my XJ during the week, but at current fuel prices, I will still be paying more to add a 3rd vehicle, when you factor in ALL operating expenses (fuel, insurance, taxes, etc).

[RichP]

We have 4 jeeps, one XJ, one ZJ, two TJ's, common parts, dependable, rock solid. easy to work on. I tend to keep vehicles a long time like my 82 S-10 that I put 680,000mi on before I sold it.

[souske]

the new JK has a computer in it or something (for the driver to fiddle with).

Am I the only one that thinks the driver should be operating the 4k+ lbs hurtling down the road? Not Fiddling with on board nav, doing make up, talking on the phone?:flame:

[GSequoia]

I only wish my XJ got 19 mpg........

Try 10.5 mpg for a while. (6" lift, 35's, 4:88's)

That's why my '04 Dodge Cummins 4x4 3500 dually crew cab is my daily driver at a whopping 14.5 mpg...... :looney:

I hear you although I average about 13 in my red Jeep, you must have a heavy foot. :laugh3:

[DeftwillP]

A push rod in-line six is a thing of the past now, they are nearly impossible to make efficient.


This. It's an antiquated old tractor motor. But it gives great torque for what we need.

[stephenspann27]

I tend to keep vehicles a long time like my 82 S-10 that I put 680,000mi on before I sold it.

Whoa... someone bought that? I bet you were like "yea.. she's just getting broke in"

[stephenspann27]

This. It's an antiquated old tractor motor. But it gives great torque for what we need.

If the head was at least cross flow... it would help a ton.. dunno what they were thinking.. "yea.. lets stick the intake runners right next to the steaming hot exhaust header"

[FlexdXJ]

We have 4 jeeps, one XJ, one ZJ, two TJ's, common parts, dependable, rock solid. easy to work on. I tend to keep vehicles a long time like my 82 S-10 that I put 680,000mi on before I sold it.

Guessing it wasn't a 2.8 was it? :D

[xcm]

if your cherokee bums you out that much whenever you drive it, build a better cherokee!
mines a blaSt to DD

[RichP]

Whoa... someone bought that? I bet you were like "yea.. she's just getting broke in"

Yup, sold it for $500 and the kid was still driving it over a year later.

[RichP]

Guessing it wasn't a 2.8 was it? :D

Sure was, new crankshaft though. Otherwise all stock drivetrain, 14 sets of shocks though, I was on the negative side of Sears lifetime warranty from their point of view though. :D :D :D :D

[Matt S.]

Not sure if it has been said.. but I hate XJs. I wish I had never bought my first, second, and third one.

[GSequoia]

Not sure if it has been said.. but I hate XJs. I wish I had never bought my first, second, and third one.

They work better if you don't cut them up on the lakebed after a few beers.

[ehall]

Last night the guy down the street with the YJ said that the Cherokee was probably the best vehicle Jeep ever built. This was when I was giving him a ride to town because his wouldn't make it.

I built mine for foul weather/woodland beater and it works awesome. I would rather have built another K-5 Blazer but I couldn't find one for free in one piece, and am loving what I have now.

Oh and the Jeep is my new vehicle, my other car is an 85 Cadillac. It makes a lot of weird noises too.

[Coastie]

I am falling back in love with my Jeep, the holidays left me low on cash so the XJ just sat for a few months but with a new promotion I am back in the game :) Recently installed long arms and a new front bumper. Even giving some much needed TLC to the garage. Next up is upgrading the electrical system to support a winch and a few lights.

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/Oliverff/New%20Jeep/0207101554.jpg

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/Oliverff/New%20Jeep/garage2.jpg

[GSequoia]

Next up is upgrading the electrical system to support a winch and a few lights.

Since you already upgraded the suspension to support a wench?

[NW-ZJ-SCOTT]

I like my XJ for offroad.. I hate driving it in the city...
I like my ZJ for Daily driving, I hate driving it offroad..

Depends on what its for.. sounds like you need a second car.

[Coastie]

Since you already upgraded the suspension to support a wench?

Exactly.

[GSequoia]

Exactly.

But once you get hte wench you won't have time to use the winch!

[Shorty]

But once you get hte wench you won't have time to use the winch!

kinda depends how big that wench is, doesn't it? I seem to recall someone expounding the virtues of larger women in the den a while ago......:conceited

[Coastie]

But once you get hte wench you won't have time to use the winch!


Sees what you did there...

/thought you made a mistake at first...

[RedHeep]

I bought my XJ on accident.

I was looking for something to put the wife and the dog in and take on long trips, saving miles on the wife's car. My boss had a '91 limited, stock, with 190K on the clock.

Then this guy had a used 3" lift with leaf springs, JCR started up and had cheap bumpers, a couple guys at work had TJ's and wanted to go wheel, etc.

I think if you focus on what your XJ is, you might want to drive something else. It doesn't connect my bluetooth phone to the stereo like my F250, it doesn't get 34 mpg like the wife's MINI.

But my XJ has taken me places other people have never seen because they can't get off the road and it's taken me there with people I never would have met if I didn't own one. And I still drive it to work almost everyday, even though it doesn't have satellite radio or heated seats, because it makes me happy.

If your's doesn't make you happy, find something else. You posted about not liking your XJ anymore on the world's biggest XJ forum, what exactly were you expecting?

[bigalpha]

I pretty much love my XJ. It's not exactly how I want it, but I love having the durability, capability and overall usefulness of it.

It's a car, station wagon, pickup truck, snow mobile, offroader, DD'er (albeit at 12mpg), tow truck, etc.

[kastein]

I bought my XJ on accident.

I was looking for something to put the wife and the dog in and take on long trips, saving miles on the wife's car. My boss had a '91 limited, stock, with 190K on the clock.

Then this guy had a used 3" lift with leaf springs, JCR started up and had cheap bumpers, a couple guys at work had TJ's and wanted to go wheel, etc.

I think if you focus on what your XJ is, you might want to drive something else. It doesn't connect my bluetooth phone to the stereo like my F250, it doesn't get 34 mpg like the wife's MINI.

But my XJ has taken me places other people have never seen because they can't get off the road and it's taken me there with people I never would have met if I didn't own one. And I still drive it to work almost everyday, even though it doesn't have satellite radio or heated seats, because it makes me happy.

If your's doesn't make you happy, find something else. You posted about not liking your XJ anymore on the world's biggest XJ forum, what exactly were you expecting?
Yeah... I was looking for a Wrangler (YJ or TJ, didn't care) when I found my XJ. I also sorta lifted by accident... rear springs were sagging, and it was only 24 bucks more for 2" HD OME springs than the ones I was looking at, so I went for them (figured they'd sag and end up about level in a year or two), then it ended up being 3.5" of lift so, well, it looked funny, had to lift the front to match... then it looked silly with small tires and I saw some 32s for cheap on here... and it was all downhill from there.

As for heated seats and satellite radio, you can fix that and for a lot less than a couple bumpers cost you :D:conceited Probably the bluetooth bit, too.

[RedHeep]

Yeah... I was looking for a Wrangler (YJ or TJ, didn't care) when I found my XJ. I also sorta lifted by accident... rear springs were sagging, and it was only 24 bucks more for 2" HD OME springs than the ones I was looking at, so I went for them (figured they'd sag and end up about level in a year or two), then it ended up being 3.5" of lift so, well, it looked funny, had to lift the front to match... then it looked silly with small tires and I saw some 32s for cheap on here... and it was all downhill from there.

As for heated seats and satellite radio, you can fix that and for a lot less than a couple bumpers cost you :D:conceited Probably the bluetooth bit, too.

I have all that in the driveway in my F250.

I end up driving the XJ anyway.

Do you think my boys run out of the house and say "Dad, let's take the truck!"?

Nope. ;)

[themangeraaad]

I have all that in the driveway in my F250.

I end up driving the XJ anyway.

Do you think my boys run out of the house and say "Dad, let's take the truck!"?

Nope. ;)
I can't wait until my XJ is fixed and legally on the road so I can walk out of the house in the morning and say "do I want to take the car or the XJ today?"

And it will be even better once I get the MJ, swap in an OBDI HO engine... then I get to ask myself if I want to take the MJ or XJ. That will be a wonderful day :)

[makkman]

I defected from The XJ owners club in march. my 89 5 speed tore through the front transmission bearing (still the peugot beast) and it became S.E.P. (someone else problem, According to Douglas Adams).
Got a 97 Nissan Pathfinder.
Things I miss: The jeep was quick, I saw up to 22 mpg on the highway. And the old Jeep took a beating like nothing should.
The new(er) pathfinder gets a religious 15 mpg, is less fun to drive, and doesn't sound as cool as "the jeep". It is wicked nice inside, though, and the new baby's seat fits really well in this one (the jeep was a 2 door.)
Loved the XJ.
Love the Pathfinder.
Love the wifes Altima. There is something to be said for reliability.
Flame on.

p.s. the current owner had plans for the old jeep. 35 inch tires and lift to fit. on the dana 30/35 combo. i want to see it when it gets done.

[FlexdXJ]

p.s. the current owner had plans for the old jeep. 35 inch tires and lift to fit. on the dana 30/35 combo. i want to see it when it gets done. Better act quick , that thing won't be moving for very long with a 35 out back! :D

[Matt S.]

They work better if you don't cut them up on the lakebed after a few beers.



Amen to that one.: :flame:


Maybe when I buy a used one this year, pre-built, I can try to like it enough to not chop it away. Then maybe I will like XJs again.

[GSequoia]

Amen to that one.: :flame:


Maybe when I buy a used one this year, pre-built, I can try to like it enough to not chop it away. Then maybe I will like XJs again.

Full body ain't so bad if you drive it within it's limitations. I'd love to build a buggy but at this stage in my life I really need a full body rig.

[Darky]

My XJ got 21-22 stock on the highway, 18 with 30s, and now seomwhere between 10-14. I hate it at the moment because the shocks are all bad so it rides terrible, the steering sucks because it's just a ZJ tie rod and stock drag link, but with a JKS track bar. It squeaks, clunks, and rattles to the point my wife thinks it's gonna fall apart. The door locks might lock but probably won't unlock unless they decide you can re-enter the Jeep. The passenger front window needs assistance coming back up, the driver's rear does nothing, and the passenger rear died once. But it resurrected. :dunno:

However, I plan on putting 7100s all-around as soon as I get my tax money, getting the IRO OTK steering, and attempting to turn this steel I have laying in my yard into stiffeners at some point. I'll probably need to get a new steering box before much longer. And a new CD player. Which I have but need to install. The windows...meh. Maybe I'll swap doors with a manual crank XJ at some point. Same for the locks.

[Boatwrench]

I call shenaigan's.

OP has 100 posts in the seven years he has been registered on the Club's forum...14 on this thread alone.

Hmmm...smells like a troll has been around...

[CherBear]

I call shenaigan's.

OP has 100 posts in the seven years he has been registered on the Club's forum...14 on this thread alone.

Hmmm...smells like a troll has been around...

Unlikely, who creates a second account, then does nothing with it for 7 years?

[kastein]

Some people actually troll from their normal account when they decide they don't care anymore. Not everyone is down with the AEs.

[xcm]

Unlikely, who creates a second account, then does nothing with it for 7 years?
a very patient troll, all behold master troll!

[Boatwrench]

Some people actually troll from their normal account when they decide they don't care anymore. ONLY HOSERS USE AEs.

Fixed it.

[rocknxj]

I like my XJ so much, I just dropped over 6k in parts over the last two months. Now I REALLY like it.

Maybe yours does not fit your vision of a daily use vehicle. Nothing wrong with that. Sell it to somebody who will appreciate that baby and get something with IFS and recovery points up front.

[90XJay]

Every now and then I drive my buddies subaru to work for gas milage purposes and even coming from a family that has always had subarus (learned to drive on a standard one) I still felt like I was cheating on my jeep. It doesn't feel right to me lol. I would reccomend you get a fuel sipping DD and keep your jeep for fun/backup/bad weather. Chances are you aready own your jeep so it's not like your making payments on it.

[cracked-butt]

our 89 xj limited has over 260k on the odometer. it makes MANY funky noises (some i know what they are, some i don't care).
it's still gettin "about" 20 mpg on the highway, not realy sure about in town/city driving as we now live out in the middle of no-where.
it is still stock after 3 years of owning her (bought her for the room/everyday transportation. didn't have a vehicle then, it got totaled)

as stated earlier in this post.. if you bought the xj for gas milage :dunce: on you. JEEP has never been known for its great gas milage.
it was built to be taken off-road (originaly), not driven about town "lookin cool" like these newer civics & such (aka rice-burners).

as for driving ours, it is for the most part very reliable. it is much easier to work on that the newer vehicle (though it still does have the OBD1 in it). there is a LOT more room under the hood to work in, no need for a jack to work underneith it. i crawled under her to replace the exhaust with out having to us a jack to lift it up. and i havent replaced the 235x75x15 tires on her yet either. the suspention is worn out, she sags.
there is just enough room in the back seats for the "baby" seat. (the electric front seats dont like to work) so any one else sitting back there wont be very comfortable, i know. at 6' tall i have sat back there.
it is a 4 door.

but the best part of having a JEEP............ I can BUILD it to suit me!!!:party:

[Phil]

They're fine little around town cars.

I'd probably build one as a mild trail rig on 4.5" and 33s.

I'll be pissed if my dad junks the '89 Waggy he bought new off the lot.

There are better platforms to start with if you plan to make a tube car.

[FlexdXJ]

There are better platforms to start with if you plan to make a tube car.

I agree a running blazer's frame would do just great to start a tube buggy with! :D

[cracked-butt]

Phil, if it lookslike he is gonna junk that waggy just "confiscate" it from him lol

[kastein]

Yeah, what'll he get for it, 150 or 200? Pay him and find somewhere to stash it or something, or sell it on here.

[rydemars]

I've owned my 97 XJ for 2.5 years. I have a direct wired ipod cost me $15 to install, a 4.5" GPS that is more advanced than my dads 2009 Pathfinder GPS and didn't cost me $2,200. And my $200 stereo sounds better than any "factory upgrade" I've ever heard. Put in factory cruise for $18, took 1/2hr to install. It was bone stock but is now keeping up with the Jones'. The only things on my list are HID upgrades, leather heated front seats (the dog doesn't need leather in back) and a sunroof. All of which will be done over the next three months.

The reason I say this is... Compare what I paid for my Jeep and what I'll have in it with everything on it.... Less than 4k

Starts everyday, can get through basically any conditions, insurance costs next to nothing, and with everything still costs less than the down payments my friends made on their Acura TSX's and Audi A6's. You know what a dealer oil change costs them? : )

You can keep your $500/mo car payments, Mine will go to my investments
so that in a few years my life will be one big :party:

[RebelXJ]

Its simple, get a car that can get some mileage. Keep the XJ always useful, you can tow if u wanna, go almost where ever if u wanna.... Just get a TDI volks like i did. The XJ has about ran me dry cause of my stupidities but now like a new beginning with the TDI, 36 miles a gallon mixed. JEEP ON BUDDY