C.Shontz 2001 Jeep Cherokee (Progress)

[Root Moose]

Whats wrong with the headlight switch? :sombrero:

The only electrical problems I've got is the gauges in the dash die on me but a good whack on the dash board fixes it usually, and my turn signals don't work most of the time (a relay problem I'm thinking). And once or twice my airbag light has come on, but I shut the engine off then back on and the light stayed off.

Is your Jeep 97+? If so, there is a connector in the back of the cluster where it interfaces to the rest of the bus. The connector is very lame and doesn't take much effort to pull out (or vibrate out). I'm guessing that is what you are encountering.

For the SRS, guessing it is just a red herring.

[kc0tma]

I've had the cluster taken apart and that connector was barely connected. So far everyone I've met with a later model XJ or a TJ has said they have that same problem, and as far as I know the only real way to fix that is either to epoxy the connector in place or to take it apart and hard wire it, neither of those seem like too appealing of an idea to me.

On my turn signal, its real sporadic but lately it hasn't worked at all. When I turn it on, it might click once or twice, or more times, or not at all. When it isn't working it just does nothing. Sometimes the actual turn signals at each corner of the vehicle blink but most of the time they don't. Usually I can get a couple blinks out of it by on and off by hand, but there generally isn't enough traffic up here to really worry about it. The relay seems right and its easy enough to fix, I just need to get off my lazy buttocks and do it.

[cshontz]

Fixed the problem with the passenger-side power window.

One wire was severed completely, and a few other wires were about to break in the wiring-harness where it passes through the driver's side hinge. Looks like some moisture, plus cold weather, plus fatigue from opening and closing the door had their way with them. I was surprised by their poor condition.

I did very my best to repair all of the wires with the tools that I had. It may last, but this is a flex-point in the wiring-harness so I'm not certain how permanent my repair will be. I may look into a replacement wiring harness for the future.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4490481880_1a9833654f_b.jpg

[cshontz]

I think I will finally have the means to give my Cherokee some attention within the next month or two.

Starting with tires. Leaning toward Goodyear Duratracs. Honestly, I'm perfectly happy with the BFGoodrich All-Terrains in terms of performance and longevity but not comfort. Since the Goodyear is available in a Load Range C, that might really improve comfort. Feedback has generally been good.

Secondarily, I think I'm going to have the transfer case issue fixed. I was spinning tires at a reasonably high rate of speed a year or so ago on a wet road, trying to drive up a steep hill. So I was an idiot and engaged the 4-HI while my rear tires were spinning. Don't say it -- I don't know what I was thinking. Needless to say, my transfer case didn't like this maneuver one bit, and 4-high has been a little bit wonky ever since. I'm lucky I didn't turn it into a box of rocks.

Thirdarily, I'm going to get a new battery. Leaning toward a Die Hard Platinum. Can anyone recommend a decent deep-cycle battery for the Jeep Cherokee? I know there are a number of battery threads, but... there is a more discussion on the matter than I need. All I know is that I have basic needs, and like to leave my GPS and 12v fridge running for a while with the car off.

Finally, IF I have the means -- and this might be a stretch -- I'm going to get the A/C fixed.

But my goal is to have this work complete before the end of May.

[Purple People Eater]

Leaning toward a Die Hard Platinum. Can anyone recommend a decent deep-cycle battery for the Jeep Cherokee?

I bought a Die Hard Platinum about 4 or 5 months ago for my Jeep. I don't have the fridge in there every day, but I've had it on for a couple weeks at a time, and I haven't had an issue. It's a Sears battery, so it won't be too difficult to get some support if need be, and it has a 4 year warranty. It's the exact same battery as the Odyssey, just re-badged.

So far, so good for me. I paired it up with some HD mil-spec battery connectors, so I just look at my battery situation and feel unstoppable.

[cshontz]

I bought a Die Hard Platinum

Cool. Got a part number, or whatever designation they use, for the Cherokee?

[Purple People Eater]

Cool. Got a part number, or whatever designation they use, for the Cherokee?

34-50034

Specs:
53 lbs
880 CCA @ 0F
68 amp hours / C20
135 min reserve

Comparable Optima Yellow 34 specs:
43 lbs
750 CCA @ 0F
55 amp hours / C20
120 min reserve

[cshontz]

I'm in a position to move forward with tires, and a battery, but little else. Going with Goodyear Duratrac 245/75R16 C, and the Diehard Platinum that Bobby specified above. Probably within the next couple of weeks.

I'm currently price-shopping on the tires. Looks like I can get them them from http://www.discounttiredirect.com/ - four to my door for $656. That's the best I've found so far. If anyone knows of better, let me know. Now I'm looking locally for mount and balance prices.

I still need to put my passenger-side door panel on. I need to replace my tensioner pulley (which is whining) and probably the belt. My one rear shock is loose at the top, too. I'm afraid to touch it, because you know what will inevitably happen - and I don't have the tools or the patience to deal with that.

[njjeepthing]

I'm in a position to move forward with tires, and a battery, but little else. Going with Goodyear Duratrac 245/75R16 C, and the Diehard Platinum that Bobby specified above. Probably within the next couple of weeks.

I'm currently price-shopping on the tires. Looks like I can get them them from http://www.discounttiredirect.com/ - four to my door for $656. That's the best I've found so far. If anyone knows of better, let me know. Now I'm looking locally for mount and balance prices.

I still need to put my passenger-side door panel on. I need to replace my tensioner pulley (which is whining) and probably the belt. My one rear shock is loose at the top, too. I'm afraid to touch it, because you know what will inevitably happen - and I don't have the tools or the patience to deal with that.

Got a place here in NJ that will hook you up if you want to drive, I may be ordering the same thing, he'll give a better price for more tires!

BTW I sent you and email to your gmail account.

[Backwoods Rambler]

I need to replace my tensioner pulley (which is whining) and probably the belt.

Just a thought.....I replaced mine, just to find that the new one squeaked also, until I tightened it up. So I swapped the old one back and magically no more squeaking...:ylsmoke:

[cshontz]

Tires ordered. :wings:

[cshontz]

So today I ordered tires and picked up a new battery. Those are a couple of much-needed items that I'm thankful I had the opportunity to take care of, but I still have a lot of maintenance to catch up on.

I probably shouldn't show you these pics. I'm a bit embarrassed by my naughty wiring bits that you can see plainly. But this was the Die Hard Weatherhandler that has been in there as long as I've had the Jeep. I purchased it back in 05.

For at least three winters, this battery has acted like it was ready to quit. At one point last winter, I left my headlights on while fueling up at a gas station, and after that short time, I needed a jump. However, I suppose the fact that it simply kept going for all this time speaks highly of it.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4544720392_194606f7f2.jpg

Now, per the recommendations of those of you on ExPo, I picked up a Die Hard Platinum. I suppose time will tell, but I installed it, and it worked, so... we're off to a good start. ;)

I had an Optima Yellow Top years ago and I was perfectly happy with it. It really served me well. I don't have the most demanding electrical needs, but I do enjoy my 12v gadgetry.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/4544091347_656888ca5b_b.jpg

[Purple People Eater]

Tires ordered. :wings:

So, what'd ya get?

[cshontz]

So, what'd ya get?

I got... three Load Range C's, and one Load Range E. :(

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4555097518_70623cae03.jpg

[nbleak21]

lmao, go figure.

[Purple People Eater]

I got... three Load Range C's, and one Load Range E. :(



Ouch. Make 'em make it right. On the other hand, you'll love those puppies.

[cshontz]

Ouch. Make 'em make it right. On the other hand, you'll love those puppies.

I did. I talked to "Mitch" at Discount Tire. He seemed like an enlightened cat. I should have the proper tire in a couple of days. :)

[FourByLand]

Mmm, can't wait to see them mounted up, Chris!

[Maximus Ram]

Those are some nice looking tires..what's the mileage rating for them ?

[cshontz]

Thanks, guys. Excited to get 'em mounted up. They're overdue, but I got a good run out of the BFGoodrichs. Well... 3 out of 4 of 'em at least.

The tires have some girth to them; more than I expected. The look bigger than my old tires, but possibly simply due to an illusion created by their full tread.

Here's another picture of their fuzzy newness.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4556612294_a26e921438_b.jpg

Oh, another tidbit of information -- I compared the weight of the Load Range E versus the Load Range C on a piece of precision measuring equipment which is a Weight Watchers issue digital bathroom scale, and the 245/75R16 E is approximately 6 lbs heavier than the C of the same size.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3220/4555981925_22a625b98f.jpg

Not sure what kind of mileage people are getting out of 'em. From what I can ascertain, longevity of the tire is adequate. I recall one negative review pertaining to wear, but everything else I've read has been considerably positive.

We shall see.

[Haggis]

Nothing like new treads to make a feller happy. :smiley_drive:

Those are some good looking tires. It will be interesting to see how they work out for you once you get out again in the wide world.

BTW...Are you going to save the WV tire as a memento of goodtimes past? :elkgrin:

[tacomadave]

Very nice XJ you've built, love the overall look of it. Great choice of tires, I have been more than happy with mine.

[98roamer]

My buddy just resold his. He put them on his WJ and they looked great. But he's planning on towing 3 sport bikes to Cali this summer and he felt after a test tow that the side walls were to weak. He felt that they swayed too much. Without the trailer they were great. I'm sure you'll love them.

[IH8RDS]

I'm proud of you Chris. You finally decided on tires! Cheers!

[cshontz]

Alright, they're mounted. First impression after years of running 10-ply BFG AT's is that these feel smoother, and distinctly softer. I don't think my reaction was, "omg - This is different!", but I feel considerably less of the road surface. Bumps are still bumps. I think I was secretly hoping for a more significant difference in harshness, but there is definitely a difference, and therefore I am happy.

As the tire rolls, it feels perfectly round, as if there is no tread at all. They are also well-balanced, and vibrations and wobbles are all but eliminated. If anything, this is just indicative of how bad (worn) my BFG's really were. Noise on the highway is an extremely quiet hum -- at least in their unworn, brand new state. It is minimally audible inside the vehicle with the windows closed and no music.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4562001502_58e87893cc_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3334/4562009710_f3aa453d80_b.jpg

[Backwoods Rambler]

Man, I really like your XJ! It's so nice, not over the top, yet still looking like it can get the job done. :smiley_drive:

Ahh, if only I could start over.... I have been thinking about undoing some things, but I think I've gone too far. Live & learn I guess.

[FourByLand]

Looks great, Chris!

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts after a few more hundred miles!

[Purple People Eater]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3334/4562009710_f3aa453d80_b.jpg

Chris, it looks great. I think you should de-badge and go for uber-stealth.

I think our Cherokees were separated at birth...

[ChuckUFarley]

Nice looking Cherokee. :drool: Looks familiar....long lost twin!

http://chuckufarley.smugmug.com/Other/Stuff-For-Sale/CLD3841/841000470_ncavR-L.jpg

'Cept I went with the GY Silent Armor. Definitely a stiffer ride than the Kumho's I had on previously, plus it tends to wander a bit on the highway due to the wider tread.

Chuck

[Krazors001]

Could you post another picture from straight on the front and rear? I have been looking at replacing my Cooper STTs with these. 245s im assuming?

[cshontz]

I haven't experienced heat soak in a while. I'm not sure why. This is when I've been driving for a while, turn off the car, and 20 minutes later when I start up again it sputters for 30 seconds and yields a CEL.

If I turn it back on only 10 minutes later, it runs fine. It also starts up fine 30 minutes later. So it's a relatively small window of time when it is susceptible to this. The reason for this, as I am led to believe, is that the intake is so hot that it evaporates the fuel in the fuel rail. So if you start the Jeep back up after so much fuel evaporates, but before it replenishes, you get a rough start.

Anyway, that was the back-story. My Cherokee has been prone to doing this for years, but I've gone weeks without it happening, which is odd. Especially considering that it's getting hot out.

This could be due to: (by my theory)


Reduced ethanol content in fuel?
Much stronger spark from brand new battery?
Spark-plug defouled itself? (hahah jk)
I haven't started it up within the necessary time window?

[cshontz]

Could you post another picture from straight on the front and rear? I have been looking at replacing my Cooper STTs with these. 245s im assuming?

Sure! Here's front, anyway. And yes, 245's.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3321/4579098726_f4ca059d4d_b.jpg

[jim65wagon]

Nice choice Chris.....going any place soon to try them out?

[Krazors001]

Thank you for the front pic. That is definately what I'm going with next tire purchase. I'm going to wait until these STTs wear out more and go to these more road friend, but still aggressive tires. How is the road noise on these compared to the BFGs? I had a set of those before these STTs and they were way quieter. A combination of a much more aggressive tire and being load range e.

[cshontz]

How is the road noise on these compared to the BFGs?

Louder than my BFG AT's (although I don't recall how loud my BFG's were when new), but the "hum" is still very quiet, and not discernible over wind noise, and music.


Nice choice Chris.....going any place soon to try them out?

Corolla in a few weeks. I don't expect to spend much time with the Jeep on the sand, but if I know me, I won't be able to resist.

[jim65wagon]

Corolla in a few weeks. I don't expect to spend much time with the Jeep on the sand, but if I know me, I won't be able to resist.

I think we should all demand a beach pic as proof the tires got broken in properly.....

[cshontz]

I think we should all demand a beach pic as proof the tires got broken in properly.....

FINE. If I must.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4640839760_d31edf1fe3_b.jpg

[cshontz]

Some minor notes --


The Goodyear Duratracs in Load Range C are stellar so far. They're a very comfortable tire, with great traction, and acceptable noise. I had them on a road trip, and on the beach (inflated).
The Die Hard Platinum has also been fantastic. My 12v fridge has been on for a month straight. It should be noted that I've been driving every day, but I'd wager the Jeep would still start well after running the fridge at a moderate setting for at least 36 hours.
I pointlessly replaced the idler/tensioner pulley to remedy some whining coming from the belt system. That was $16 misspent, but no big deal. Could've been worse. Since the belt was off, I was able to identify that the actual culprit is the power steering pump pulley. And of course since the belt was retightened, now the noise is worse. Ah well -- no big deal. Just annoying.

[Root Moose]

FINE. If I must.

Great pic/rig.

[cshontz]

Well, I've been pretty much ignoring the power steering pump pulley whine, which gave way to squeaking... which, on a 90-degree Sunday afternoon, gave way to catastrophic failure, spewage, and enough smoke to cause me to gather my valuable at the shoulder of the road - just in case.

I abandoned the vehicle on the shoulder overnight, only a few miles from my house. Sure I could've probably driven it home, but the power steering pump was putting on quite a show, so the Jeeper in me opted to repair it where it failed.

This was $130 and 3 hours worth of roadside fun. But yay! It works great, and people no longer say to me, "Your Jeep sounds broken, brah." when it idles.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4102/4745449009_cd474a70e5_z.jpg

[DirtyViking]

o0o0o0o0o0o...shiny new part...

[cshontz]

A picture is worth 1,000 words. Or 100,000 as the case may be.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4802765158_11e1ca432f_z.jpg

[cshontz]

I figure it has been a while since I posted an update. Lately, the Cherokee has just been falling apart. During a heatwave, my rear-view mirror fell off my front windshield, shattered, and that event set things in motion.

Remember the power steering pump I replaced? Well, the pulley cracked, and would subsequently "slip" when I turned at full lock. Well, I knew this was a time-bomb and I drove with it like this for a few days. I had just rented a puller from Pep Boys, and I was on my way to another auto parts store for a new pulley, but it didn't make it.

Uh oh! This isn't going to last long!

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/4968302974_2813589462_z.jpg

Well, this is a good enough place as any to fix it.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/4968308390_5fec4efbaf_z.jpg

The belt was intact, but it looked stressed and unshapely. I'm not surprised, since the power steering pulley blew into a million pieces at around 65 mph. Not much was left of it.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/4968314754_bed9303046_z.jpg

So I got on the phone with my wife who came to my rescue, and drove me to the auto parts store that I was on my way to anyway. Picked up a new serp, too. I replaced the pulley and serpentine belt right there at the side of the highway. Wasn't too difficult.

However, that was not the end. As I drove away, and my electric fan came on, it caused front end of the Jeep to vibrate pretty significantly - like one of those "magic fingers" vibrating beds that you insert quarters into. Apparently, the exploding pulley cracked the electric cooling fan, and chipped away a piece of one of the blades. It was just annoying at first, then it got worse.

Yeah, that doesn't look good.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/4968319944_080ed90799_z.jpg

Fortunately, I had a new one ($100) ordered and on it's way right before it all hit the fan. (lol) I unplugged it on my way home from work on Thursday night, and on Friday, my new fan arrived, which is much better!

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/4968325236_93a4ef347d_z.jpg

And then I tried to trade it in, but I wasn't satisfied with the numbers. So I still have it.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/4967724267_b593ed6fc6_z.jpg

I'm tired of centrifugal forces having their way with my Jeep! Now I have a minor coolant leak (more like a seep), unrelated to the aforementioned issues. It's a non-issue... for now.

What have we learned from all of this? I've been a Jeeper for a looong time, and this one has been giving me a fair amount of trouble. I blame too much highway, on-pavement driving. Jeeps are funny things in that regard. They work better in natural, more technical terrain, as God intended. I believe the reason for this is probably because the vehicle adapts to harsher driving conditions, and the parts-rotation becomes more frequent, thereby striking out the "wear" from "wear-and-tear".

It's not happy being a daily driver. It longs for adventure.

Me? I still love off-pavement driving. It's in my blood and I enjoy it with a great amount of intensity and zeal. Aside from life happening... this is Pennsylvania, and I know where most of the trails go here. ;)

[Mr. D]

chris good luck with your jeep. I sold my 2003 cooper S, to buy my 2004 Rubicon the jeep takes me places the cooper will not

[kc0tma]

Mini's are cool, but they ain't Jeeps. All summer I've been tearing apart and rebuilding various bits and pieces of my XJ, in fact I haven't driven a mile in it in nearly 3 months. So to get me by (and to get to work when it was too wet for the motorcycle) I bought a crappy old 89 S10 pickup for $500. It runs great and gets good gas mileage and is surprisingly dependable for having 200k miles on it. So don't despair on the jeep, or the heap as it might be called now, just find a modest little commuter and nurture the love for the XJ.

[cshontz]

I call this picture, "Through the Looking Grass". No, I was just sacking out on the ground at a field near work on my lunch break, and took this pic with my iPhone. There is no point to this post.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/4986639909_e7f2df5a2e_z.jpg

[jim65wagon]

Yes, there is. The point is you still own it, and even with it's recent problems, you still love it. The pics you take of it prove it............








can't argue with that logic can you?

[cshontz]

can't argue with that logic can you?

A little. I don't love it. I mean, I enjoy looking at it. But there are a million other cars I'd rather have. I don't mean to take it for granted, but it is my 4th Cherokee. It's practically all I've driven since I've turned 16, and I'm bored to hell of it.

I think if it died in a fire, I'd laugh and just enjoy the fact that I have a funny new story to share on Facebook, providing I wasn't in it when it happened.

Tell you what - ask me again when 1) I have working A/C, and 2) when I'm winding my way up a perilous, yet scenic, mountain trail. ;)

[gasman]

A little. I don't love it. I mean, I enjoy looking at it. But there are a million other cars I'd rather have. I don't mean to take it for granted, but it is my 4th Cherokee. It's practically all I've driven since I've turned 16, and I'm bored to hell of it.

I think if it died in a fire, I'd laugh and just enjoy the fact that I have a funny new story to share on Facebook, providing I wasn't in it when it happened.

Tell you what - ask me again when 1) I have working A/C, and 2) when I'm winding my way up a perilous, yet scenic, mountain trail. ;)

ha .. hey i bought my first cherokee in 86,, 300,000 bought a new one in 95, it has 350,000 and it is killing me, one thing after another, more money more money more money,, i got so pissed i went out and bought a 2010 rubicon 2 weeks ago, my face hurts cuz ive been smiling so much, but ya know what? my cherokee sits in the garage and i can not part with it, i know i should sell it , part it out , whatever but i just cant,,, i love that jeep

[Amauri]

Don't sell it gasman.

[njjeepthing]

I started with a XJ back in 1996, 20 Jeeps later I own a XJ again. I've owned everything in between, CJ, YJ, TJ, Rubicon's, Jk's, etc.......Love the XJ, although I have been thinking of adding another SWB (YJ) to the stable.

[BEVAN]

my 93 has not been driven since feb...I do a little every day, It will be driven soon enough....keep it.

[kc0tma]

my cherokee sits in the garage and i can not part with it, i know i should sell it , part it out , whatever but i just cant,,, i love that jeep

I know exactly how you feel about wanting something new because its a piece of junk but loving it so much that it almost makes you start crying like a little girl at the thought of getting rid of it. I was choked up a little bit when I watched my first XJ get hauled away on a wrecker after the hit and run totalled it, and I was pissed off when my current cherokee had a seemingly uncureable death wobble, and now that I haven't driven mine in 3 months I'm ticked for paying insurance and registration on it when it just sits in the driveway. But whenever I think about buying something else I start thinking about all the fun stuff I've done in it and decide to keep it because to make a new(ish) vehicle as capable as my XJ would be more work than I want to put into it. So I keep the XJ and give it plenty of TLC.

[cshontz]

Nothing exciting to report. Radiator's leakin'. It's been doing that for a while. Coolant is muddy, so I'm pretty sure the radiator is rotting away inside, but it's still radiating... so for now, it's getting the stop-leak.

As long as the Jeep is running cool, A/C repair gets priority over new radiator. I'm not going through one more summer without A/C! :mad:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5205/5277733113_755c0e5d75_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5277736567_9fa29661e6.jpg

[kc0tma]

I had a radiator get totally plugged up with rust and sediment and junk, there was no way to clean it out so the whole sheboozie got replaced.

[Marcie's Disco]

Nothing exciting to report. Radiator's leakin'. It's been doing that for a while. Coolant is muddy, so I'm pretty sure the radiator is rotting away inside, but it's still radiating... so for now, it's getting the stop-leak.

As long as the Jeep is running cool, A/C repair gets priority over new radiator. I'm not going through one more summer without A/C! :mad:



http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5277736567_9fa29661e6.jpg

Ahh, C'mon now... Stop-leak is no better than a trail fix. For less than $200 you can have a new, all metal three row CSF radiator. Those plastic tanks are a ticking time bomb once a seep starts. XJ rads seem to have about a 100K mile shelf life. You will have a catastrophic failure that won't be solved with a raw egg or Bar's Leak. I understand you are scraping coins for an air conditioner repair but this isn't an issue to defer. When (not if) it craps out completely, you will be paying for at least a new radiator. Do the repair now, on your terms, and avoid long a walk, a tow bill, an overheated engine, a major antifreeze clean up and a ruined day, weekend, week.

[Haggis]

Hey, Chris. A buddy of mine just had his XJ crunched in the passenger side by a Super Duty a couple of weeks ago. He's parting it out and I know he just stuck a new radiator in it this Fall. Last week he said he was going to hang on to it till after the new year than he's taking it to the knackers. He'll probably be willing to deal. Do you want me to see if he still has the radiator and how much he wants for it? Anything else you might want to cannabilize from it?

[cshontz]

Ahh, C'mon now... Stop-leak is no better than a trail fix. For less than $200 you can have a new, all metal three row CSF radiator. Those plastic tanks are a ticking time bomb once a seep starts. XJ rads seem to have about a 100K mile shelf life. You will have a catastrophic failure that won't be solved with a raw egg or Bar's Leak. I understand you are scraping coins for an air conditioner repair but this isn't an issue to defer. When (not if) it craps out completely, you will be paying for at least a new radiator. Do the repair now, on your terms, and avoid long a walk, a tow bill, an overheated engine, a major antifreeze clean up and a ruined day, weekend, week.

I know, I'm totally with you. I have to admit, I felt a little bit dirty standing there, outside of work tonight, watching the bottled trail-fix go down... glub-glub-glub ...working its way slowly into the bowels of the radiator, amidst the sediment, the rot, and gumming up God-knows-what. This totally isn't my style, I assure you. ;)

I'm keeping an eye on it, going to service it, and just trying to buy a little more time until after the holidays, at which point I should be able to address it properly.


Hey, Chris. A buddy of mine just had his XJ crunched in the passenger side by a Super Duty a couple of weeks ago. He's parting it out and I know he just stuck a new radiator in it this Fall. Last week he said he was going to hang on to it till after the new year than he's taking it to the knackers. He'll probably be willing to deal. Do you want me to see if he still has the radiator and how much he wants for it? Anything else you might want to cannabilize from it?

Thanks for the offer, Mark. I think I'm just going to get a new replacement. I got a Modine for my last Cherokee, and I was really happy with it. I need to start Googling.

[Marcie's Disco]

I'm keeping an eye on it, going to service it, and just trying to buy a little more time until after the holidays, at which point I should be able to address it properly.


Glad to hear it. The price of replacement radiators for XJs is remarkably low. Replacements with metal tanks represent a nice upgrade from the OEM plastic tanked rads.

[grahamfitter]

My limited experience suggests that Jeep radiators and water pumps tend to die within weeks of each other because junk falling off one causes terminal damage to the other. So it might be worth replacing both. Happy Christmas!

[BIGdaddy]

just to throw a monkey wrench in things. The previous owner of my Cherokee (15 years) put a plastic/aluminum radiator in circa 2000-2001. That radiator just failed last year.

Thats about a decade of use. :wow:

So I just put a $120.00 pep boy lifetime radiator right back in. Been in there 18 months now...no issues.

:)

[frankinjeep]

Chris I got a 3 row radiator from radiator barn and it came with a life time warranty. It cured all my overheating problems. Check it out as an additional option.

[drbandkgb]

Man I have really enjoyed this thread.. Im an Xterra guy that is looking in to a Jeep.. May have swayed me

[alexfm]

The PO of my Cherokee slapped in a really nice all aluminium radiator right before I bought it. I dont think it has more than 1000 miles on it, and it works pretty well. Although I do still have a mysterious overheating issue...

*Edit* If it makes you guys feel any better, my XJ's got close to 218K miles on it. *Edit*

[GTABurnout]

Its good to see I am not the only one who gets sick of cars constantly breaking. I had a 2001 Cherokee with 50K on it thats right just 50K and the cooling system was junked up, the ac would start to blow hot. And man the death wobble and steering issues where un believable. I worked on that truck for months to fix everything only to take it on a long trip and find out it wont go 70 up a mt grade. Its now gone replaced with a 2500 Dodge that is starting down the same path.

[Topgun514]

Its good to see I am not the only one who gets sick of cars constantly breaking. I had a 2001 Cherokee with 50K on it thats right just 50K and the cooling system was junked up, the ac would start to blow hot. And man the death wobble and steering issues where un believable. I worked on that truck for months to fix everything only to take it on a long trip and find out it wont go 70 up a mt grade. Its now gone replaced with a 2500 Dodge that is starting down the same path.

Mine wont make it over 45-50 on a mountain pass. I consider it lucky though when I see the cars that can either go 70+ but not be able to touch dirt roads and or go over 60 mph but break down more often. Slow and steady wins the race.

[Tdaz250]

Your jeep is great looking but it sure seems to have alot of problems for the mileage it has on it

[cshontz]

Your jeep is great looking but it sure seems to have alot of problems for the mileage it has on it

Thanks! However, I only really post when there is some problem with the Jeep. I haven't performed any significant mods or gone on any adventures in quite a long time - otherwise, I don't think I'd sound like such a Negative Nelly. :)

Trying to change that. 2009, 2010, and 2011 so far, have been about getting back up to 0. The past few years have been so crazy, with a long-term separation and other drama and strife. But things are looking up from here on out, and I... we... plan to re-enter the arena.

So hopefully my future forum posts won't be stories of clunks, rattles, and radiator leaks, and more stories about forgotten roads, border crossings, and GPS receivers leading us astray.

:costumed-smiley-007

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/5089751312_9174537853_z.jpg

[Haggis]

But things are looking up from here on out, and I... we... plan to re-enter the arena.

So hopefully my future forum posts won't be stories of clunks, rattles, and radiator leaks, and more stories about forgotten roads, border crossings, and GPS receivers leading us astray.

Huzzah! It'll be good to read the continuing adventures of Cshontz as the clouds part and some sunshine starts peeking through. Looking forward to the next famous quote from you..."My GPS shows the road going the whole way through." is required useage for any ExPo East run.

Psst...you could start the year out the weekend after next. It will be cold but you'll get a warm welcome. :REOutCampFire03:

[Tdaz250]

Yeah it looks great. I was just like man 45000-100,000 and like the pulley blew up and your radiator...

Like comparing it to mine, mines got 178k on it and it seems pretty damn sound. I hope it doesnt decide to turn on me haha.

[IH8RDS]

Chris, I too finally had to replace my radiator. About 5 months back now. Before I replaced it I had a COMPLETE flush done of the cooling system then I went down a bought a new one at Autozone. Should of sprung for a 3 core, but I just wanted to get the stock one put back in. Got lucky last week driving up to PA. The fan clutch exploded about 70 MPH on I 95 and the shudder/explosion was audible enough the scare the bejesus out of me. I didn't dare stop on the side of the road. So I monitored the temps and kept on going. 4 hours later when I filled up with gas, I slowly popped the hood to asses the damage. Whew... The fan wedged between the top of the radiator and the support and was rubbing on the small lower pulley. I pulled off the fan and clutch and there was no damage to the radiator. Lucky. Still haven't put it back together. The weather has been cool and I just run the defrost for the aux fan. Debating on putting an electric fan in its place,but I'll probably just go back to stock. :coffee:

[cshontz]

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5203/5360439507_413fe2d0b6_z.jpg

If I may gush, I had the Cherokee out this past weekend on a Northeast ExPo trip, Central PA Redneck Rendezvous (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=748015), and I was ecstatic with its performance! It was hard to believe that I was driving the same vehicle that was giving me so much trouble (over a long period of time) on the road. The Cherokee hasn't been properly "wheelin'" since early 2009, so I thought it was going to complain, and almost certainly leave me with something to fix by the time I got home.

Instead, it soaked up the terrain and didn't miss a beat. It felt like a... mobile womb, within which I could overcome unseemly obstacles with grace and aplomb.

My enthusiasm about the Jeep is renewed, and I expect to lavish it with love and preventive maintenance in the very near future!

There are things not relating to the vehicle's off-road prowess, however...


Dim headlight(s)
When tailgate is all the way up, rear wiper comes on
Rear tailgate needs new struts
iPhone randomly disconnects from new stereo
Heat soak, heat soak, heat soakheatsoak heatsoakheatsoak!!!1!


http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5363127653_803cd1da87.jpg

[MuckSavage]

Chris,
I really dig the look of your XJ. the monochrome look rules! Glad everything worked out well on the weekend trip & thanks again for sharing those pics!
-Muck

[cshontz]

Over the holidays, I got a new stereo head unit for my Jeep. It's the Jensen Heavy Duty JHD1620B, and it caught my eye in the Crutchfield catalog for the following reasons:


boasted as "heavy duty" because it is dust and vibration resistant
iPod/iPhone compatible
plain looking
receives NOAA weather band


Sounds like a great choice for an overlander, right? So I bought it sight unseen. I'm not an audiophile, so I basically just needed it to produce good sound through my standard OE speakers, and the fact that it interfaced with, and charged my iPhone was my biggest criteria. The brand Jensen might not have been my first choice, but I was more concerned with specs and features.

As an aside, I dislike the appearance of pretty much every aftermarket head unit out there. They're all designed to draw the eye, with a lot of glitz and shiny plastic. Not only does this not interest me, it deters me. I want my stereo to be bland, to look as OE as possible, and to be feature-rich and function brilliantly. Too much to ask for? It would seem. The selection on the wall at Best Buy would indicate that I represent a minority, but I doubt I'm alone in my preferences.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5057/5436732958_2cefefd1eb_z.jpg

So I got this thing and had to splice together a wiring harness for it. Not a big deal, but one of my last Jeep Cherokees had a Sony that I believe had a pre-made wiring harness for it. That may be an advantage to getting a more popular brand.

It fired right up when I finally put it into the dash, and sounded great. It is a way better setup than the wired RF adapter I installed years ago, which is outlined earlier in this thread. That setup charged my 5th gen iPod, but wasn't able to charge my iPhone 3GS. Furthermore, the sound quality is much better with a proper iPod/iPhone compatible head unit than an RF adapter, wired or otherwise. Now I control iPhone music playback directly through the head unit, as opposed to through the phone - which I'm pretty sure is how it should be.

The new setup has its cons, though:


thick iPod/iPhone cable makes device awkward to maneuver
iPhone disconnects randomly, usually when the heat is high
build quality is mediocre, and "heavy duty" may be gimmick
manually selecting iPhone song or artist slow with large library
clock is slightly fast


The iPhone disconnecting randomly is the biggest problem. It usually happens when I have the heat cranked up excessively high, but it doesn't happen too often. I'm sure something is heating up in the dash causing a connection to break. I'm going to yank it out one of these days and jiggle some wires. It's almost enough for me to want to return it, but it might be remedied simply by moving some wires away from the vents in the dash. We'll see.

This particular model doesn't have a CD player. I have no need. However, the next model up does have a CD player, I believe. It does have a few auxiliary inputs, however. I plugged the one in the back into my defunct CB radio that... hasn't worked for 6 years. Whatever.

Would I recommend it? Yes, if you're like me, and you demand a utilitarian, plain-looking head unit with a decent feature set that produces good sound. I do like it over my previous setup. Otherwise, no. I'm sure there are a number of better head units for the price.

Jensen Web Site
http://www.jensenheavyduty.com/jensen-heavy-duty-am-fm-wb-ipod-sirius-satellite-radio-ready-stereo-317.html

Crutchfield
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-MHIZutkKwDa/p_522JHD1620/Jensen-Heavy-Duty-JHD1620B.html

[troy]

I see you need som lifgate struts. I finally ordered a pair, based on reviews from www.naxja.org. They are from www.amazon.com. They have a $5 off coupon when you buy two and free shipping. My total was like $29. I should have done this years ago. They even shoot right up when it is below zero.

Like the others I also went to sesquhenaa?? motorsports and went with Hella E-code housings. I kept my stock harness, so I went with 55/65W bulbs. It was much improved, and wasn't a lot of money.

[Purple People Eater]

Chris, excellent info on that head unit. You're definitely not alone in wanting a plain looking radio. A couple questions...

It looks as though you control the iPhone/iPod from the device itself, and not at the the stereo unit's face. Is this the case? Because that would be preferred, and quicker. I have to select the artist and song using the dial on the faceplate of my unit and it gets tedious having to scroll down to the M's...

Also, it looks as though the unit is off-center in the dash of the Jeep. Is this because there isn't a wiring harness/fit kit available for the XJ? And how difficult was it to rig something up if so? Electronics scare me.

Your approach to building this Jeep continues to impress and serve as a model and inspiration to building my own, if you haven't noticed already.

[4Rescue]

That gen of XJ's has a "double DIN" space for the radio's so this SINGLE DIN head-unit has to have a piece of trim around it to make it fit the slot... I think he said he controls the I-phine WITH the head unit. I'd vastly prefer to use the Ipod/Phone as it's ALOT faster to respond and can skip over large chunks of the alphabet while searching. Bu that's just me.

I love the color-coded ARB bumper on this truck and I'd be REAL interested in seeing how the OME suspension works on it.

Cheers

DAve

[Purple People Eater]

I think he said he controls the I-phine WITH the head unit. I'd vastly prefer to use the Ipod/Phone as it's ALOT faster to respond and can skip over large chunks of the alphabet while searching. Bu that's just me.


That's actually what I was trying to get across, I agree with you. Sorry if there is anything lost in translation in my post.

[Purzell]

I like that Jensen unit, it looks good. I hate the look of my Pioneer and plan to sell and replace it.
Not to be overly technical but it's a Din-and-a-half, I believe.
I bought my head unit (Pioneer) with a USB and a headphone (AUX) jack. The AUX jack allows me to use the iPhone/iPod to select music but doesn't charge the device, the USB will but you have to select the music, then plug in...annoying.
Sorry if that's info everyone knew.

[cshontz]

I see you need som lifgate struts. I finally ordered a pair, based on reviews from www.naxja.org. They are from www.amazon.com. They have a $5 off coupon when you buy two and free shipping. My total was like $29. I should have done this years ago. They even shoot right up when it is below zero.

Thanks for the lead on the struts! I haven't looked for any yet, but now I know to check NAXJA.



It looks as though you control the iPhone/iPod from the device itself, and not at the the stereo unit's face. Is this the case? Because that would be preferred, and quicker. I have to select the artist and song using the dial on the faceplate of my unit and it gets tedious having to scroll down to the M's...

Unfortunately, it doesn't allow control through the iPhone. Nor does it use the dial to peruse songs. It's all buttons, and yes, it is tedious to go through a large number of songs, artists, or albums. I suppose that would be another big con. You can hold a button down to go faster, but it's still not that fast. I don't think I'll often have the patience to get all the way to Soundgarden, Smashing Pumpkins, or Simon & Garfunkel.

I like the fact that I can control my music selection from the head unit. It feels natural to me. But no, it is not as quick or efficient as using the iPhone itself.


Also, it looks as though the unit is off-center in the dash of the Jeep. Is this because there isn't a wiring harness/fit kit available for the XJ? And how difficult was it to rig something up if so? Electronics scare me.

It is in fact centered, and there's a faceplate / bracket thingy (which I'm sure is the technical term for it) that sizes the slot appropriately. Electronics scare me too, to some extent, but splicing in the connections on the wiring harness took about an hour while sitting at my dining room table. There were instructions, and in this case, the wires were color-coded consistently. I was extremely anal, because I only really wanted to do it once, and I wanted to avoid causing the Cherokee to go up in flames. I hate it when that happens, because my stuff is in it.


I love the color-coded ARB bumper on this truck and I'd be REAL interested in seeing how the OME suspension works on it.

Thanks! It's really comfortable, and soaks up the terrain. I've had it for years now, and I love it. I only wish I took it off-pavement more often. :)

[ThePartyWagon]

Chris, I just wanted to swing by and say you have a great looking xj, just went through all 33 pages. Purpose built without getting carried away. Love the stock-ish look you have kept.

I for some reason remember your username, maybe we ran into each other at the PA Jeeps Show or on another forum? My username on most forums is MG2000XJ, used to have a green 2000 on 35s.

I just recently picked up a 2000 Silverstone 2dr and hope to start working on it shortly. I bought a set of Icons like yours but, like you, cannot find too many load range c tires in the 16" flavor. Did the ride noticeably change from he BFGs to the Goodyears? Also, with the OME kit do you think a t-case drop would have cured the vibes as well as the sye and new d-shaft?

[cshontz]

Chris, I just wanted to swing by and say you have a great looking xj, just went through all 33 pages. Purpose built without getting carried away. Love the stock-ish look you have kept.

I for some reason remember your username, maybe we ran into each other at the PA Jeeps Show or on another forum? My username on most forums is MG2000XJ, used to have a green 2000 on 35s.

I just recently picked up a 2000 Silverstone 2dr and hope to start working on it shortly. I bought a set of Icons like yours but, like you, cannot find too many load range c tires in the 16" flavor. Did the ride noticeably change from he BFGs to the Goodyears? Also, with the OME kit do you think a t-case drop would have cured the vibes as well as the sye and new d-shaft?

Thanks for the compliments!

Congrats on your two-door. They're getting rare! My first Cherokee was a 1990 two-door, and I don't think I appreciated how unique that was. I can't wait to see what you do with it.

I ran the BFGs for a long time, and got used to the ride. To the point where I could say I was comfortable. However, when I switched to the Goodyears at load range C, I did notice an improvement. The road surfaces felt a little bit softer, and more muffled. They're nice, and I wish load range C was a more common option for the 16" tire size.

At such a minimal ride height increase, a transfer case drop would've most certainly eliminated vibes. However, I wanted to maximize ground clearance and maintain good working angles. A fixed-yoke conversion is really the only way to go, and I typically recommend it as a must-have modification with any amount of lift, whether it would seem necessary or not.

[pajeepman]

Nice looking XJ I have always thought so though. I thought I saw it for sale on BMJA a year or two ago. I think it's on of the nicest mild looking XJ's I have seen. I would love to use the OME lift like you but for now, my budget is a used Skyjacker space/shackle lift. Hopefully someday mine will look very similiar to yours in Patriot Blue though. I already got the wheels. I just picked up the back half of a MJ that I am toying with turning into a trailer that would be painted to match my XJ, and have matching rims.

[dieselenthusiast]

Have you thought about a rear bumper with tire carrier? JCR off-road has a nice rear bumper with tire carrier on sale right now. :sombrero:

[cshontz]

I'm just thinking aloud here. Spring is here, and I want to make things happen and really get out there this year. I'm off to a good start with a new kayak for the family.

Short-Term, Necessary Work


A/C repair
Radiator and cooling system replace
Borla SS cat back (muffler has leak and starting to rot)


The stuff that needs attention really isn't that bad. The Cherokee has been running nicely, knock on wood, as I continue to rack up the miles just driving back and forth to work every day.

Miscellaneous


Headlight wiring harness, and new headlights
Driver door hinge noisy, needs maintenance
Short in external GPS antenna (remove or replace)
Diagnose short in rear wiper when tailgate is up
Fix heat soak once and for all by insulating injectors
Vinyl torn on side of driver side seat (repair or cover)
Consider solutions for glitchy head unit
Replace air filter, long overdue


It was like new when I got it in 2005. It's starting to really resemble a broken-in vehicle, as you can tell.

Long-Term, Technical


Gear job (3.55 -> 4.10, lockers?)
Wonky transfer case repair (or nv241or?)
Rear bumper and tire/gas carrier (there are none I like)
New OME springs, possibly HD rear for towing
Check transmission and transmission cooler
Tweak driveline angles


I love having lockers, but I almost never need them. Even when you think you need them, you don't really need them. A well-balanced vehicle with a sure-footed suspension goes a long way in providing traction when you need it the most. Not saying it isn't nice to be able to flip a switch when all else fails.

I want to put my spare tire on the outside of the Cherokee, and there are just no spare tire carriers that I like. First, most of them make you replace the bumper. My stock rear bumper is fine, quite truthfully. I just want a sturdy arm that can accommodate a spare, some fuel and water, and my Hi-Lift. AEV, why did you have to stop making your Cherokee rear bumper? I like the Wilderness swing-away for its utility, but not their bumper. I like the Detours USA stock bumper upgrade, but the swing-arm lacks utility. It's frustrating.

Long-Term, Overland


Roof-Top Tent?
Roof rack w/ Pelican for exterior storage?
Adventure Trailer w/ RTT?
Tear-Drop w/ RTT?


I have no idea. These options are all cost-prohibitive. The lowest cost option is a small RTT and a small rack on the roof for my storage. I hate putting stuff on the roof - not to mention, the kayaks already use that space. But I want to make the Cherokee a viable family camper, and still be a sensible daily driver, and... I guess I'm just not going to be able to do that without a trailer.

A part of me likes the Tear-Drop w/ RTT idea. How cool would that be? It'd be like a double-decker overland condo! :D

[kc0tma]

I like the Detours rear tire carrier too but am turned off of it for the same reasons. They are a pretty small scale fab shop, so I wonder if you could maybe get some custom work done on their system for not a whole lot extra money.

[oldmant]

This is damn near exactly what I have planned for my 01 cherokee.

Obviously your not done but what would you do differently looking back at all this?

[cshontz]

Obviously your not done but what would you do differently looking back at all this?

Thanks! Nothing at all... except perhaps get it out on the trail more. :)

[thejafe]

Thanks! Nothing at all... except perhaps get it out on the trail more. :)

Chris, will you be attending the OK4WD Open House this May? I'll be out there with pretty much the same crew as the last time you hit the trails with us. We'd love to have you along again this year :smiley_drive: !

['00 XJ]

New reader. Really enjoyed all the posts from your project. As a result, may have decided to get an Old Man Emu lift, and seriously considering an ARB bumper, after seeing both here. Feeling better about deciding to repaint my rig (original color) after taking it down for an estimate at a good shop.

Wondering please, did the ARB bumper fit your rig like they do in the picture right out of the box? Or did it require fender well trimming? It looks so great.

Also, regarding the Old Man Emu lift, I saw you used a slip yoke eliminator. I was thinking of going with a 2" inch lift after seeing yours, and wondered if I could get away with a transfer case drop. Guessing yes, if the actual lift is actually 2"...

Anyway, really inspired after reading your posts. How very cool.

Al.

[TerryD]

Also, regarding the Old Man Emu lift, I saw you used a slip yoke eliminator. I was thinking of going with a 2" inch lift after seeing yours, and wondered if I could get away with a transfer case drop. Guessing yes, if the actual lift is actually 2"...
Al.

You can run up to 3" on a Cherokee and be ok 99% of the time. I have run a 3" on my 98 XJ for 3 years now without a problem and no t-case drop. I was running degree shims to pitch my pinion up just a little though, but mostly because of the way my old springs were.

['00 XJ]

Thanks Terry D.

Did not know that but sure appreciate the tip.

Thanks, Al.

[cshontz]

It's been a few days since I posted an update, so... here you go...


Replaced entire cooling system right before things got ugly
Fixed the A/C, and have working A/C for first time in 3 years


My next mod?


Adventure


That probably didn't need to be in a bullet list, but except for the fact that it's getting nipply out, I'm in a better position to plan an adventure weekend. Time to stop planning pipe-dream mods, and get out into the woods.

This thread is like a time-capsule. You can literally watch parts rust. ;)

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6122/6016428520_da46791f11_z.jpg

[jim65wagon]

It's been a few days since I posted an update,

days? you need a better calendar my friend

welcome back!:sombrero:

[TMPhoto]

Still cant decide between an xj, zj, or wj for my first Jeep....yours came along quite nicely. Love your "OEM" philosophy and trying not to stray too far from what Jeep intended. Same philosophy I've had on my MR2 Spyder. Enjoyed the the read through this thread for the past 30 minutes :)

[Palmetto]

Glad you made it back. I've been waiting for updates.

;)

[Spectyr]

Regarding the tire carrier, I spoke with mark from detours USA when I got mine and he seems like a good guy. Give them a call regarding a slightly modified version. Maybe you can get him to do an overland model with gas can carrier and anything else you need.

Cheers

Mark

[cshontz]

New headlights! The old sealed beams were original, rusty on the inside, and filled with moisture. I don't know how they kept burning for so long. As much as I wanted something fancy, I kept it real with some Sylvania Silverstars.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6107/6325835733_efdf00ac01_z.jpg

Oh yeah. Although there is no indication on this thread, I have actually been out with the Jeep a little lately. ;)

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6171/6229021162_eb8ab76a1b_z.jpg

[AeroSynch]

I love your Jeep. I am selling mine to buy a stock one and go this route because after 4" of lift it is no fun as a daily driver and all the other things that go along with it.

[cshontz]

Regarding the Jensen Heavy Duty JHD1620B stereo - I'm on my 3rd one. When the dashboard compartment gets a little toasty, the iPod connection randomly disconnects. This problem has been consistent on two different units, and I'm awaiting the arrival of my 3rd. I'm stubbornly trying to get it sorted, because it's otherwise a great head-unit for overland travel. However... buyer beware.

http://www.jensenheavyduty.com/jensen-heavy-duty-am-fm-wb-ipod-sirius-satellite-radio-ready-stereo-317.html

Pros


Utilitarian OE look w/out the glitz
Weather band, kicks in automatically for weather emergencies
Sounds great
Battery alarm / auto-shutoff when battery power is low
iPod / iPhone / Sirius compatible w/ no CD
Supposedly dust and vibration resistant


Cons


Questionable engineering quality / reliability
Bulky proprietary iPod cable (why not usb?)
Slow and unintuitive music navigation


http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5057/5436732958_2cefefd1eb_z.jpg

[idaxj97]

cshontz i had a question i just recently bought myself an arb bumper for my xj i mounted my lightforce 170's when i get out on the highway my temp runs above 210, did you have the same issues with your lights if so what have you done to keep the temp down?

[cshontz]

cshontz i had a question i just recently bought myself an arb bumper for my xj i mounted my lightforce 170's when i get out on the highway my temp runs above 210, did you have the same issues with your lights if so what have you done to keep the temp down?

Nope, I've never had a cooling issue due to my bumper and auxiliary light configuration. It might reduce air-flow somewhat, but certainly not to an extent that would cause a problem. To me, this suggests your cooling system might not be in the best health. If you're regularly creeping over 220, it's time to be concerned.

I just had my whole cooling system replaced in August 2011, and now it's as cool as a cucumber. No special parts, just factory replacement. It seldom goes over 190. Just tonight, 30 minutes into my evening commute (in 30 degree weather) it held fast at 175-ish.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/6502633517_da4f2434a1_m.jpg

[Logans91XJ]

Honestly once you have a locker you wonder why you never got one in the first place. Best mod on my Jeep for sure it can go anywhere thanks to rear end being locked up.

[idaxj97]

Thanks without my lights i stay around 190 but with them it runs around 220 may have to take it in and have a good flushing.

[cshontz]

As a side-note, I'm extremely happy with the Sylvania Silverstars sealed beam replacements. I'm glad that I didn't spend money on something fancy. Thank you to all who recommended.

[cshontz]

Replaced the stereo (again) today. So far, so good.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6528224997_701d5d8f57_z.jpg

I might've found something, though. I'm not sure this gap is supposed to be here. It's a gaping gap for the defrost duct-work. Now, I could be wrong because everything felt solid, but the heater core was just replaced back in August. I'm wondering if the garage assembled things carelessly.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7156/6528223603_44aec5075e.jpg

Sorted. Let's not tell anyone about this "fix", shall we?

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6528224165_abb9d28ebd.jpg