Buying a 2006 Cherokee KJ 3.7L

[KJ75]

I have the chance to buy a 2006 Cherokee KJ 3.7L for $6K, with 122K on the ODO. It has a small dent at the back (where the spare wheel is mounted) but looks like an easy fix.

I have a pretty good idea on what to check on the Diesel 2.8L, but have limited knowledge on the 3.7L and the 4 Speed Transmission.

From what I read the 3.7L are bullet proof, but the transmissions (42RLE) are junk and break easy.
"http://etereman.com/blog/fiat-transmission/what-problems-plague-the-chrysler-42lre-transmission"


Are there anything specific to check on the 3.7L with the 4 Speed Auto ?

[Classic Boy]

I think the 3.7L V6 is a derivative of the 4.7L V8 and shares many design & components with that engine.
The 4.7L whilst OK is not bullet proof it has issues with its timing chain system and its heads can drop valve seats particularly if it has been ever too hot, it is not unheard of for valve rockers to escape their lodgings.

And if ever they have ever been overheated the heads will likely need replacing.

I would imagine the 3.7 may suffer from similar issues.

the good thing is because they are in large numbers in the US the aftermarket does cater well for them.

[Methamon]

Have a 3.7l petrol KJ 2005 with 94000KM. I have had the auto rebuilt after it overheated out bush however since having rebuilt added external transmission cooler (not connected through radiator) remove front spotlights to allow more air flow and added a temp gauge, and a few other mods on trans have no issues and its been 3 years now of beach, offroad and caravan towing.

Recently did timing chain tensioners (Bit of clicking noise) and fuel injectors (leaking) and now going well. The 3.7 L goes well with the auto i get about 13L per 100km and i have a lift big tyres roof racks etc etc.
make sure you have a service record and that its have reg oil changes other than that a great motor

[KJ75]

Inspected the Jeep at Logan City Motors.
Took the Jeep for a drive and noticed the transmission was not smooth, and gave a strong clunk downshifting 4th to 3rd.

By the time I got back to the dealership the transmission was puking fluid on the floor (dealer tried to make it out to be water).

Only had 4 years worth of service history.

I also expected the V6 to be a lot smoother compared to the diesel and that's not the case (maybe there was something wrong with the V6 petrol).
The V6 has more than enough power and a good match to the Jeep.
I now have a lot more respect for my Diesel Jeep, even with all it's quirks.

I think I dodged a bullet with this one.

[Classic Boy]

Originally Posted by KJ75

Inspected the Jeep at Logan City Motors.
Took the Jeep for a drive and noticed the transmission was not smooth, and gave a strong clunk downshifting 4th to 3rd.

By the time I got back to the dealership the transmission was puking fluid on the floor (dealer tried to make it out to be water).

Only had 4 years worth of service history.

I also expected the V6 to be a lot smoother compared to the diesel and that's not the case (maybe there was something wrong with the V6 petrol).
The V6 has more than enough power and a good match to the Jeep.
I now have a lot more respect for my Diesel Jeep, even with all it's quirks.

I think I dodged a bullet with this one.

Many V6's engines use a balance shaft system to help deal with the their tendency to vibrate. A lot of V6 engines of north american heritage were originally V8's with 2 less cylinders so their design started as a compromise.