Buying a 96-99 XJ - Recommendations?

New to the forum here, been driving FSJ's for years, and it's time to downsize. Not just size, but the ole Waggie keeps the toolbox toooo busy.

Looking for a 96-99 XJ, as these seem to be in my price range, and mileage (60k - 100k). I know the 4.0 is bulletproof, and I want an auto trans. Is there anything among these years that stands out, or something I should avoid? I would prefer a 2-door, but there doesn't seem to be many of those around, particularly with 4wd (that's a must). I tow a drag car also, so if I can't find one with a tow package, it will be added.

Thanks in advance for the input.

Look for a 97+. 96 was the last year of the old body style. There's nothing wrong with a 96 (I have one). But with the 97+, you get the more rounded body edges and the full front door windows.

Do a search - you'll find lots of information... Things to look for:
The new body style was introduced in '97.
Chrysler 8.25 axle - stronger than the D35 (not avail. with ABS)
Only automatic offered with the 4.0L is the AW4
Transfer cases offered - NP231 & NP242 (the 242 had a full time 4x4 option)

Hope that helps...

Will.

I agree with all above but go for the 242 transmission, Select trac (full time 4x4)
231 Command Trac (part time 4x4). when i bought mine that was one of the key things I looked for and wouldn't settle for less. Good luck and welcome to XJ world

99 came with a high pinion D30 (stronger than the low pinion) and a 29 spline 8.25 rearend.

I would suggest any of those years with the factory tow package: gets the 8.25 rear axle, factory installed class III hitch and light wiring and an aux tranny cooler.

Travis eace:

Blazair said:

99 came with a high pinion D30 (stronger than the low pinion) and a 29 spline 8.25 rearend.

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Just to clarify, 99 and earlier came with the hi-pinion D30. Also some 96 and all 97+ 8.25's are 29 spline.

spaulman's clarification above is very important. The spline count on the 8.25" makes the axle that much stronger, which can be a very important part. One other note though is that the 96+ NP231 uses a transfer-case output that can have very bad vibes if lifted; making an SYE strongly recommended. The 95-earlier output wasn't as bad but had a problem in that removing the rear driveshaft opened up the t-case to leaking.

Hello and welcome! The XJ's are great trucks. I have a 92 with 154,000 on it. Still running great.

Ironically, I've been thinking about moving up to a larger vechical. (family and dogs make the XJ a tight camping experience.) I was thinking along the lines of an SJ full size, a 91-94 Toyota LC, or a 87-91 Chevy Suburban.

FWIW the pre-96 XJ's don't have the pesky (in my opionion) air bags nor the troublesome Chrysler parts. (ie. crapy power window problems, intermitent guage problems (loose wires I think), and controversal seat belts (search in Google for info)). They do have a few other nice improvements mentioned above and some more such as better brake booster, beter sound proofing, and better alternator. I myself like the XJ un-molested by Cryco's hands, and therefore preferer the pre-96. No Flames please, just my opinion. I hate Chrysler Benz. eace:

Good luck in your quest.

Dave

Dave in ABQ said:

I was thinking along the lines of an SJ full size, a 91-94 Toyota LC, or a 87-91 Chevy Suburban.



Dave

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I have a '93 Suburban for sale if your interested. 77K, white, 4in lift, 33in AT's, Waldoch package with leather and all the toys... email me for pics.