C.Shontz 2001 Jeep Cherokee (Progress)

[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.

[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.



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.



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

[JohnnyBoots]

Damn, I just burned through 20+ pages of this thread today while I should have been working...oops!

Digging the thread/mods/jeep/etc. I appreciate the details and factory look you're doing. I've solved your sports car dilemma by buying a 04 Mini Cooper S as my daily with my mostly stock...for now 98 XJ. Your Jeep will definitely provide some of the blueprint for mine, thanks.

[cshontz]

I just had extensive brake work done. New brakes all around. Front-end checked and aligned.

My exhaust is original, and is not looking so good. I ordered a stainless-steel cat back system, which will hopefully last the life of the vehicle.

Ordered new marker lights from ARB, again. Since mine are kaput, and state inspection is due.

I am looking to get my CB radio working next, for vehicle-to-vehicle communication. It hasn't worked for years. Installing an antenna will help... if my radio itself is even any good anymore.

Going to Vermont Overland Rally, so I'm trying to whip the Cherokee into shape. It's really good right now, mechanically. Ready for adventure.

[cshontz]

Alright, just came in from the garage. I got the CB antenna all mounted up on the ARB bullbar. I went so far this time to check grounds - previously I would just assume grounds were okay - and it took some finagling, but I can confirm that the antenna seems to be installed correctly.

If that is the case, then... I got this Jeep in 2005, installed the CB in 2006, and... got it working in 2012. Let's hope it finally works like a proper CB radio, shall we?



Also got a Borla cat-back system to replace my original 12 year old exhaust, which wasn't lookin' so good. I'd like to say that I'm perfectly happy with this considerable investment, but I'm not. I thought the exhaust would be a little more subtle.

I didn't know the tip would be welded on, so it was my plan to omit the tip, and trim the tailpipe so people couldn't see it, and so it wouldn't interfere with the terrain. That wasn't the case, obviously. The tip is a part of the pipe, and is immediately followed by a weird (pointless) bend directly under the leaf spring. People with extended shackles on their XJ should avoid.

My mechanic did trim roughly 3" off of the muffler output which made it a tad shorter, but even with this trim, it sticks out past the bumper. If I ever back into terrain, or get pinned at the base of an incline, my exhaust is going to be vulnerable. So Borla clearly didn't have the off-road enthusiast in mind.

On the other hand, I do like the stainless-steel construction, and the gurgle at idle. I'd just otherwise prefer an exhaust that isn't meant to be seen or heard. Lesson learned.



The Cherokee is in the best shape it's been in for a long time. All ready for Overland Rally.

[MCObray]

Nice update. I really admire what you've done with your Cherokee. One of my favorites.