New to us '96 Cherokee

[JZLAJeep]

It happened again, another XJ followed us home over the weekend. I'm a sucker for 4.0 with AX-15 and this was at a price that couldn't be refused.  Had to make a 4 hour drive to northeast Oregon, but the drive was gorgeous and we came home with a Jeep! This makes 4 at the house though (2 XJs, MJ, CJ-7), which is a problem... 

 

'96 model year, Cherokee Sport, optioned like my '95 2-door, 235.5K miles, straight body, dirty but otherwise good upholstery, factory radio/cassette. Cruise works, AC works as much as we can tell in October.

 

Needs some TLC and a deep cleaning of the interior. PO had a Thule box on the roof, but took it off, but left the rack/bracket with no key for it. Will have to decide what to do about that.

 

Seller said he parked it and it didn't start when he came back, pulled a code (since it's a '96) that said alternator. Instead of fixing it he just listed it for sale. We took a battery (borrowed from the MJ) and a new alternator from Amazon and went on a road trip. Hooked up the battery and the Jeep started right up. Took it for a spin, saw the voltage dropping so parked, put the new alternator in and it was ready to drive it home! 

 

Now that we have it, need to decide what to do with it.  Could become the 15 year-old's to drive next year if he helps with it. If not, maybe need to find it a home with someone that appreciates a Manual XJ.

 

Needs (Identified so far):

1. Clutch
2. Oil filter housing o-ring
3. Badly needs an oil change
4. Straighten transmission brace (shouldn't look like an upside down V and the transmission sounds like it rattles when turned on/off)
5. Ignition cylinder and steering column surround (works, but ugly - someone tried to steal it from PO, but apparently couldn't start it or drive stick...)
6. Door latches
7. Center Console lid (gray)
8. Right front corner turn signal indicator
9. Dome light covers
10. Headliner is a little saggy, but not horrible (yet)
11. Hub cap (have one that needs some paint)
12. Sport trim (have some)
13. Rear hatch struts
14. Light bulbs all around
15. Tires are mismatched, but OK for now

 

 

 

[M.T.Hands]

Very Nice

[75sv1]

Not sure of the intent of use. It does look nice. Many of us do look for a manual. Still, the AW4 is a good auto trans. I would try and keep the Thule rack on, if MPG is not a problem. I have sometimes put lumber or other building material up top. The factory one has clasped on me. Still don't like putting stuff up there on some of the roads I drive though. Some have issues with the '96 year. Others, its the best XJ they've had. 

[Pete M]

it happens.  you're just out and about, minding your own business and BAM, there's another XJ in the yard when you get home.