I dont own a Jeep yet but am looking to get one within the next few weeks as a new DD to replace my family min-vanand a SHTF vehicle, if need be, and I need some advice, opinions and recommendations on a few things from all the veteran Jeepers out there.
Im looking at the Cherokees because the Wranglers and CJ's are out with having a family of four plus two dogs to haul around and fishing/hunting gear. Id like to keep it as stock as possible for now, except maybe a lift and bigger tires. Its mainly going to see highway use and some light offroading from time to time but it would be nice to know that whatever I get can handle bigger obstacles.
What year Cherokee and engine size (I6 or the V8) would be the best overall choice especially in the gas mileage department. I know the I6 is the most sought after for its durablity and low end torque but lacks a little in the power department for highway driving verses the V8.
Also in the research ive been doing on the Cherokees, what tranny system would be the best to have the quadra drive, or selec trac, vari-lock diffs, trac lock diffs? Ive read mixed reviews on all the different options but most seem to prefer the selec-track (NP242 transfer case) and how can you tell (other than opening up the housings) what diffs it has.
Any opinions, advice or recommendations would be appreciated. Thanks everyone.
One more thing does anyone have any experience with the 4BT Cummins swap in a Cherokee?
Guessing you are actually looking for a GRAND Cherokee then, as the Cherokee was only offered in a 4cyl and 4.0l 6cyl. There is quite a difference between the Grand Cherokee and the regular Cherokee lol. We are looking to sell our Cherokee currently in order to buy a 99-04 Grand Cherokee. I want the 4.0L inline 6 for its reliability, cheap cost to work on, ease to work on, and general lack of as many issues as the 4.7 V8 offered in that body style. I also want the selec-trac which is not offered behind the V8 at all as far as i know. Selec-trac gives you a 2wd option, which helps save fuel. it also doesnt constantly use a viscous coupling in the transfer case like the AWD setups do. This hopefully means the coupling wont go bad as fast. Also gives me open differentials as opposed to limited slip. Limited slip is very nice to have, but im going for low maintanence and repair cost. LSD's require more maintanence and normally need rebuilt sooner do to clutch disks that wear over time.
Basically, I just dont want any of the options. They are what cause most of the issues in this particular body style Grand Cherokee. Im going for reliable and cheap/easy to repair when needed.
After being a tech at a Jeep dealer, my biggest suggestion regarding these Grand Cherokees is to avoid sunroofs at all costs. They lead to a world of electrical issues.
To figure out which drive system is in it, just look at the transfercase shifter in the Jeep. It should be printed on the trim around the shifter.
