Bleed4MJ Posted March 2, 2013 Share Posted March 2, 2013 Even before I got into Jeeps I had always wanted to build a Comanche. I've always thought they are pretty amazing little trucks. Now that the time has come I am really unsure how I would like to proceed. Id like a little input on the wheels turning in my head. So I have my 88 base MJ. I also still have a 03 WJ limited 4x4. I bought the WJ with the plan to sell it for the profit to help build the MJ. As the WJ get closer to sell time (I had a good bit of fixing to complete) she starts to grow on me and everyone else in the house (not that I care what they like lol). My original build plan was to build a "Daily/Tow truck" Sell WJ. Do complete 98+ conversion with via a parts truck. 4" lift. Frame braces to help with towing. Big brake, Paint. A simple and clean truck. Then get another XJ pre 98 gut it and wheel it.... simple plan. I really had no plans to wheel my MJ because its clean, no body damage, no rust. Also the towing that needs to be done would be said XJ (MJ towing an XJ) The problem.... Now I'm thinking that no matter what I do the WJ will always be a better "Daily drive" option and will always tow more. Maybe... just buying a pre 98 parts jeep for the axles and drive line would be easier and cheaper. But without selling the WJ I have to use pay day money and that means time... options options options... So what do you guys think?? Daily MJ and XJ for wheeling or Daily WJ and slow build the MJ.. ?? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jimoshel Posted March 2, 2013 Share Posted March 2, 2013 Don't chop or hack a good MJ. Get a S10, Dakota or Ranger if you feel you gotta chop something. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bleed4MJ Posted March 2, 2013 Author Share Posted March 2, 2013 I wouldn't piss on a Ranger, Dakota or an S10 to put out a fire. Much less buy one for wheeling. I'd buy another XJ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
87Warrior Posted March 2, 2013 Share Posted March 2, 2013 Whats with the pre '98 XJ thing? You have peaked my curiosity. I believe the WJ will always be a better daily driver. However, it will NEVER be as much fun to drive as the MJ. I would not lift the MJ 4" if I planned on towing much with it or daily driving it. Upgrading the suspension, axles and brakes would be a solid plan in my opinion. Metric ton leaf springs, a D44 or 8.8 out back, non CAD D30 up front with Vanco brakes and JKS control arms with a coil spring to level out the truck with the metric ton rear leaves. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mnkyboy Posted March 2, 2013 Share Posted March 2, 2013 I don't get the 98 thing either. 97 and up are the same,the late models are also structurally stronger and tend to make better wheelers. I wouldnt make the MJ a tow rig, although it could pull the weight its not nearly as safe as towing with a full size truck. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bleed4MJ Posted March 2, 2013 Author Share Posted March 2, 2013 Whats with the pre '98 XJ thing? You have peaked my curiosity. I believe the WJ will always be a better daily driver. However, it will NEVER be as much fun to drive as the MJ. I would not lift the MJ 4" if I planned on towing much with it or daily driving it. Upgrading the suspension, axles and brakes would be a solid plan in my opinion. Metric ton leaf springs, a D44 or 8.8 out back, non CAD D30 up front with Vanco brakes and JKS control arms with a coil spring to level out the truck with the metric ton rear leaves. Oh pre 98 are just cheaper. Make good off road beaters. Can pick up one for $400-$600 and there are 10 or more in every junk yard in town for spares. I was actually thinking the same think on the rear. I was going to go with D44 narrow track, The 4" RE lift I have from my XJ using a combo of the RE leafs and the metric ton leafs. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mnkyboy Posted March 2, 2013 Share Posted March 2, 2013 I think your off on your years,96 is the last year of the old body XJ. 97-01are basically the same. There would be no benefit to a 98 over a 97. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bleed4MJ Posted March 2, 2013 Author Share Posted March 2, 2013 You're correct sir. Habit from mine being a 98 : ) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MtnClimber Posted March 2, 2013 Share Posted March 2, 2013 03 WJ engine? Either way I'd continue to DD it and use for towing and slow build the MJ. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bleed4MJ Posted March 2, 2013 Author Share Posted March 2, 2013 4.0 .. The only engine a Jeep should have :-) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MtnClimber Posted March 3, 2013 Share Posted March 3, 2013 Don't like the Hemi? :brows: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bleed4MJ Posted March 3, 2013 Author Share Posted March 3, 2013 Na.. Not for a jeep. I still think the 4.0 is one of the beat motors ever. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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