Looking to buy my first Jeep

[JEEP+MUD=FUN]

Howdy all, I just registered today do to the fact that I'm looking to buy my first Jeep. Every time I get in a Jeep, I get an off road bug. Well it's been a few year since I sat in a Comanche, but I still remember how it was different and really cool. I'm moving to California soon, and I was hoping to find a 92 4.0L Standard 4X4. For the simple fact of it's newer, and has a I6. Is there a better year, or engine for mudding? It'll be a project that I want to start from stock and create to trail ride with a few jeep buddies of mine, but that I can drive to and from the trails with also.

 

-Will

[Automan2164]

Any year make and model will work with some, well, work. Stray away from the '86 Model year, as they are usually tagged with the 2.8L lame duck. Any renix era('87-'90) or High Output ('91-'92) should fit the bill. Renix have a little less HP, but make up for it with a better cam for torque, and gas milage. I would tell you to stray away from building a late model '92 (built 1-92+). They only actually made 952 MJ's from 1-92 to end of production. If you find one, restore it, and baby it. Any engine or trans combo can be swapped with an XJ/MJ donor. So if you find one that speaks to you, and its a 2.5L, or bad 4.0L, get it. Engine, trans, and 4wd conversions are easy, and cheap. They used a less than reliable 5 speed from '87-Mid '89, so keep an eye out for those... Some have converted to the AX-15 (mid '89 and up) and thats the better 5 speed to find.

 

If you have any more questions, just ask!

Welcome! :cheers:

Rob L.

[Pete M]

I would start with an 87-90 4.0 2wd truck and build it up from there. :thumbsup:

[1990 Pioneer 4x4]

I think a "92 4.0L Standard 4X4." is a good starting platform, but i'd also add the short box. :cheers:

[Geonovast]

IMO, your primary concern should be condition of the body. Everything else is easily upgradeable/replaceable. Plenty of parts/donor XJs out there. Not a lot or replacement body panels.

 

The body remained virtually identical 87-92. 86 is 98% the same.

[JEEP+MUD=FUN]

Thanks for all of the good advice, I'm very excited to start this project, but of course I need to move first.

 

-Will