Best XJ Year Model and options?

[drcre8tive]

I'm seeing a lot of decent used XJs around my area for under 2G's...

I've been considering buying one to fix-up as a project (as if I don't have enough already with the JK); perhaps to replace my lady's Subaru... or a car for my brother In-Law, or as a 2nd vehicle for me for towing and off-road use.

Anyway, I'm partial to the 2-door models...

Just wondering what options to look for, which year and models would be the best "base" to start a mild build... probably add a lift and the 32's from my JK Unlimited Rubicon.

Other things I should and should not do to it?

Any input appreciated.

[JeepComanche]

This may be all old news but just in case, I would make sure it has the 4.0. Anything before 1986 may have the less desirable V6.

There are two types of the 4.0 that went into the cherokees & comanches. The older Renix systems and the later "High Output" versions. I am not exactly sure when Renix stopped and HO started. I am guessing around '89 but I have no idea. I have an old '87 Renix Comanche which predates chrysler that runs well but everyone I talk to implies the HO is much better and certainly has more HP. HO came out after Chrysler aquired AMC/Jeep.

The Renix isnt bad. Slightly less HP and requires 6 or so cranks to get it started (which is quite normal by the way).

Also, some cherokees came with the more desirable and more durable Dana 44 rear axle as opposed to the Dana 35.

Now to demonstrate my ignorance, I ASSuME if you were able to find one with factory towing package, you would get a better axle ratio than some. I have 3.07 and the poor truck can barely climb hills on the interstates. On the other hand, it only runs at 1,500 rpm at 60mph. But I would much rather have lower 3.73 gears.

The 4.0 is just a great engine. I wish my JK had it.

Hope this helps.

[Viperdave]

renix was 87-90
dana 44 rear was 87-89 (have never seen a 90 although they might exist)
Dana35 from above years is non c clip
8.25 rear was available in the 90s without ABS

Gear ratio will be

3.07 - manual 4.0L
3.54 - auto 4.0L manual I4
3.73 tow package
4.10 auto I4
4.56 auto I4 w/offroad package

my ideal would be an 89 Renix with the ax15 manual trans tow package dana 44.