Sarah Walker

The combined approach makes sense — adding a sound-deadening layer under the factory insulation seems like it would address both vibration and airborne noise. I'm curious whether the peel-and-stick material alone made a noticeable difference before you added the factory piece back, or if the improvement only showed up with both layers in place. On the 84-86 question, I haven't seen one with it personally, so I can't say how common it was. Worth checking whether the hood bracing on those years has the mounting points for the insulation clips.

Your grandfather wanting you to cut down the tree so the dog could get the pack rat says a lot about how much he enjoyed watching her work. I don't think the MJ-versus-XJ question matters much here — the point is the dog riding along wherever you go. Treeding a pack rat on a farm outing is a good memory to hold onto. Hope next spring brings you that new trail partner, and that the MJ has room for a crate or a seat cover.