Jeep Recommendation

[Chivalry]

I currently own a '97 2WD 4 Door Cherokee Sport that I purchased new. I've been very happy with it, but am now looking to upgrade to a 4WD vehicle. Jeeps seem to continue to have a reputation for ruggedness and reliability, so we're sticking with a Jeep. After considering the CJs, I've decided to stay with the Cherokee because of the cargo space and the fact that on the road, this will operate as a family of four's primary vehicle.

After reading http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4847586&postcount=4"]this ("[url) post[/URL], it seems that the years '87–'90 have a reputation for being available inexpensively with available after market parts.

Now, here's the kicker for my options: although I'm not afraid to get my hands dirty with maintenance, my experience in working on cars of any sort is limited to filling up the tank. I simply don't currently have any knowledge of car maintenance or customization. But I do want to learn. So the Cherokee I get will hopefully not be too difficult for a beginner to maintain well.

I've also never driven off road. This vehicle is planned for utility as well as recreation. I'll hopefully soon be relocating to a more rural location where 4WD is a necessity for winter roads and an option for rural chores. I'm also looking forward to the enjoyment of off road travel once I've taken the time to learn how.

So, given my complete ignorance of anything about off road Jeeps and my belief that a Cherokee will work best for my needs, which year should I be considering? Is it possible to narrow it down further than the 4-year range suggested above? Should I actually be considering that range (I don't even understand the general pros and cons outlined for the various models in the above URL's FAQ)? Yes, I'm a complete newbie at any deep enjoyment of Jeeps. I'm hoping to change that.

[SkooliesRock]

You didn't mention if you were "adding" a 4X4 as a second vehicle, or if you'll sell/trade-in your current 2-WD?

I'd suggest keeping your current vehicle if at all possible, better mileage, and I'm guessing it's a dependable vehicle you know you can count on. Personally, I'd buy an older Cherokee/Wagoneer. Less electronics & bells & whistles to go wrong, when you need them most.

Try & find something witha V-8 and Dana 44 axles, not the corporate (less strong axles). Lift kits, differential lockers, offroad tires, winch, capability to carry extra fuel, and other essentials can be easily added as finances permit. Dependability, ground clearance, and traction are the main keys.

I'm an advocate of the K.I.S.S. method ;)

[ugabulldog]

I'm not trying to be a smartass but.... my recomendation is a Toyota. for more info visit yoatech.com

[MadTripper]

I've had a Grand Cherokee and a Limited Cherokee. They are worthy vehicles but if you are looking for the best 4 wheel drive that will last for 300000 miles or more, get a Toyota LandCruiser. They are built better, last longer and will go anywhere you want as long as they are equipped with decent tires and perhaps some differential lockers (factory option btw). Check out http://www.ih8mud.com and look in the 80 section. I recently picked up a 97 with 209000 miles for around 5K. Once you drive one and compare it to your Jeep, you'll never look back. Mine is also a 7 passenger vehicle. Just to help see the difference in design standards, if you test drive one and have your Jeep, compare the front ends. Toyota uses a fully protected birfield with large knuckles whereas Jeep uses the same type of constant velocity joint you would find in a front wheel drive car.

I could go on and on but if you do your own research and test drive a few, you'll see there is a huge difference. The new FJ Cruisers are pretty cool but I only drove one on paved roads so I can't vouch for it's offroad capability.

If you are deadset on a getting a Jeep, I believe the 1995 model year Grand Cherokee had one of the highest rated 4 wheel drive systems in recent history.

I also have a 1974 FJ40 which is apart for restoration at the moment and a 1963 Nissan Patrol which is possibly the most capable off road vehicle ever made on a production scale. I feel very confident in our 97 LandCruiser that I could load my family up with our goodies and haul ass anywhere I need to at a moments notice.

Tripper