Hints and Tips For Jeep Buyer - Please !

[95EVO]

Hello from another newby !

I have been very fond of jeeps for a long time and are now in a postion to purchase one.

The model i am considering is the "1999 JEEP CHEROKEE XJ Sport" with approx 130,000km on the board.

I have no idea about jeeps and their possible pitfalls (expenses).

If anybody could help me with the following questions that would be great.

1. How good is this model jeep for towing ?, i normally tow trandem trailers with race cars quite often, previously i have owned a jackaroo, triton and a hilux 4 cylinders.

2. What major mechanical problems could i expect with this model jeep ?

3. What other major problems are normally common with these model jeeps ?

4. What are the usual major expense items ?

5. How reliable arew these cars, given i start with a tidy example ?

6. Dare i ask about the fuel economy of the 4 litre 6 cylinder ?

7. Any idea of the cost for a good towbar ?

You can email me directly at gdownie@aanet.com.au if you prefer.

Thankyou for your assistance, it will be much appreciated !

Regards,

Glen

[optical]

1. How good is this model jeep for towing ?, i normally tow trandem trailers with race cars quite often, previously i have owned a jackaroo, triton and a hilux 4 cylinders. I think from memory that they have a really good towing ability, but the rear brakes are drums so you have to be aware of that more so when slowing down

2. What major mechanical problems could i expect with this model jeep ? aslong as you service her when needed the 4l will go for ever - use the correct lubricants tho

3. What other major problems are normally common with these model jeeps ? engine mounts tend to get tired from the engines torque twist, exhaust manifold likes to crack and some jeeps tent to get a bit warm

5. How reliable arew these cars, given i start with a tidy example ? very reliable, mine starts first time everytime even when it hasnt been run in weeks - look after them and they look after you

6. Dare i ask about the fuel economy of the 4 litre 6 cylinder ? well its not a fuel miser, but what large capacity petrol 4wd is ?

by the sounds of your nick i take it you have an evo 3 ?

potent cars

[pzver]

Get the newest Jeep that you can afford.

[Wolfe]

1. How good is this model jeep for towing ?, i normally tow trandem trailers with race cars quite often, previously i have owned a jackaroo, triton and a hilux 4 cylinders.
A: I towed for years only problem I ever had was the shortened life of the brake shoes. Longer braking distance, I assumed was due to extra weight being towed.

2. What major mechanical problems could i expect with this model jeep ?
A: Hard for tyre places to do wheel alingments( My experience)
Flimsy control arms, If you do any major wheeling.
Overheating problems. Gets leak around rear of motor between gear box (if it doesnt leave a puddle it aint a jeep)
Miscellaneous electrical problems
3. What other major problems are normally common with these model jeeps ?
See Above

4. What are the usual major expense items ?
Gear Box

5. How reliable arew these cars, given i start with a tidy example ?
I love my Xj and considering what i've put it through i think it is reliable

6. Dare i ask about the fuel economy of the 4 litre 6 cylinder ?
Dont ask

7. Any idea of the cost for a good towbar ?
$450.00 - $1500.00 Could only cost you $100.00 depends If you import, buy local or get secondhand


In my opinion I feel the humble Xj is great, Good value for money, practical, reliable.
A great vehicle for a small family to tour in. A bit heavy for daily peak hour traffic. Underatted trail killer. Lots of aftermarket accesories to spend money on. Interchangable with some other jeep models Eg ZJ brakes, control arms, springs. Tj diffs motor etc
its not unheard of for the humble 4.0L 6 cylinder to reach 250,000 kms

In summary a dam good car