So many people building these old Cherokees..what’s so special about them?..jus curious..I was thinking about the Toyota Land Cruiser but I’m curious about the XJ too
@@breaker3269 for me, my brother had it, owed me money, so I said give me the jeep. Really mot much thought behind it lol. But, they are light, front and rear solid axles with a bulletproof 4.0L inline six that is pretty torquey and great for crawling. Plus parts are super jeep
As a Jeep owner and off-roader myself, I'd love to see the XJ build. I'm predicting right now that you are going to love the beater XJ and especially the solid axles once you experience them off road.
The first thing I do when I get a new Cherokee is make sure it has a fan shroud on the mechanical fan and install a manual override switch for the electronic fan. Those two things along with a up to date cooling system (good water pump/thermostat, new radiator, hoses, clean coolant) will keep it from overheating especially on the hot days. Also carry a spare crankshaft position sensor. Overheating from a poorly maintained cooling system and stalling due to a bad crank sensor are the two main things that have left me stranded with XJ's. I'm on my fifth XJ now.
Had no idea you were a vet too. Long time follower of the channel and I dream of someday being able to take a trip with you. As a fellow vet who had some mental health challenges after leaving the military and now actively tries to get vets and now fellow first responders to open up and not deny the challenges out communities face I cannot thank you enough for using your platform to help push that message. Makes me an even bigger fan of your page.
Hell yeah, brother, that's a great idea. I enjoy watching builds and how they play out. I'm totally like you that I would never take my 4runner rock crawling. However, I've considered buying a jeep just to go beat it up on the rocks and just don't care about scratch n dents or broken parts. Cool bro, I can't wait to watch the build.
If it makes you happy it'll make us happy man. Super excited to see this thing come together and what trails you take it on. I hope this leads to some awesome growth for your channel
I too have started my journey on a xj project mine is a 98. Big problem I had and gathered that a lot of xj do have Over heating … got mine under control lol at last . If that is still a Dana 30 up front with 35inch problems are abound. I have taken a few steps on this journey, but still have a long way to go I’m no expert on this at all but happy to share information. I will definitely be watching your build! Thanks for the video!! and definitely your service!!
Thanks man, it was my pleasure! And that’s good info to have. Little detail was given on this jeep so I still need to figure out a lot. For example I don’t know which transfer case it has or what the axels are. Also had no idea overheating was an issue so I’ll definitely keep my eye out on that
@@OFFTHEGRIND The transfer cases used are all chain driven with aluminum housings. NP stands for "New Process" which is the brand, if you will. The newer ones are NV instead which stands for "New Venture". It is the same transfer case just a different name. NP207 - "Command-Trac" part-time only - 2.61:1 ratio low range - used 84-87 NP231 - "Command-Trac" part-time only - 2.72:1 ratio low range - shift pattern 2H - 4H - N - 4L - used 87-01 NP228/NP229 - "Selec-Trac" - 2Hi - 4Hi(full-time) - N - 4Lo (part-time) - used 84-87 NP242 - "Selec-Trac" part-time OR full-time - 2.72:1 ratio low range - shift pattern 2wd - 4part-time - 4full-time - N - 4LO - used 87-01 I found this on line when I first got mine if yours is still stock probably is the NP 231
As an overlander myself, I will always be more into your overlanding adventures with the Bronco. I love seeing the places you go, the overland experience you share, and the pure serenity of that. Having said that, it’ll be neat to see how this thing turns out too and what trails you hit with this, but I hope you keep your Bronco adventures as the main theme of the channel🙂🤞🏼 I love your channel and you quite honestly convinced me to consider getting a Bronco myself, and I truly appreciate your insight into how to optimize it. Keep up the great work David and thanks for all the work you put into your videos! P.S. For your beater rig you should get an old beater Bronco! 😎
I love the XJ. I bought a brand new one in the 80s. I ordered it without AC, with MT and vent side windows for about $15k. Limited slip rear also. 1st wife got that one and then I got another, a Limited with auto. Gave it to my son and he put a wicked camo paint job on it. Love my Bronco BD I have now.
Can't wait to see what you build. I remember the days when I had no money..... got what I could and did what I could do in the garage. All the other customizing was done by the trail
As new members to your channel and patreon, we love your overlanding and camping trips. I even went out to Owyhee Reservoir after meeting up with Will to drive some of the trails you did. BUT I would love to see the build of this jeep and especially the rock crawling. At 60 years old, I’m trying to understand suspension builds and the mechanical part of our vehicles so this build would be great for us. Look forward to your future videos and maybe a trip with ya.
Iron Rock Off-road makes solid products, I wouldn't be worried about stuff from them as long as it's installed correctly. For a tired I6 engine I'd look at some new injectors from K suspension and maybe the upgraded cables. Those short control arms are deff maxed out. If you're looking to do a budget build there is soooo much information on Google specifically Jeep XJ junkyard upgrades has a bunch of cool stuff you can toss in it. Love the channel, keep up the great work from a fellow vet and lifelong XJ owner!
Super good info thank you so much! Glad to know I was on the right path with the control arm thought. Wouldn’t have thought to do injectors honestly but you’re probably right there. It runs pretty strong still but definitely needs some love
@@OFFTHEGRIND Yea man any time, I've had an XJ for a long time and love it, I can't replace a good mechanic but happy to answer any general questions you have. I grew up in the PNW (Washington) and miss it so much. From one vet to another, keep up the great work on here and love the videos!
Wow, you read my mind. I am also looking for an XJ. Not a Bronco replacement but to enhance the experience. None of my Son's have a narrow wheelbase vehicle that we can go out together and wheel. Many years ago I built a 69 Jeepster Commando. It was awesome. But, I don't have it anymore. I'm excited to see what you do with it.
Iron Rock is good qaulity, tear down the entire front and replace all the control arm bushings and clean up those arms wih a lil sanding and rattle can. If the $ is there sleave and truss the dana 30, sand it down and rattle can it too. Hope to see you succeed on a good rig at low cost. I own 2 xj's myself. 1 is dedicated trail rig , #2 is my daily and wknd warior...best all time out of the box 4x4 ever👍😀
Month late with the comment but playing catch up with all my UA-cam subs. Build it and make the series. Get out there on the rocks and have fun. We will all watch the videos from the trails to the rocks
I'd definitely be intersted in seeing more of this build and future content. I also have a "main" driver (2023 4Runner OR) and an older 2004 Jeep WJ. The WJ has Iron Rock Offroad suspension and they're a pretty solid/known company, so your suspension components could certainly be worse ;) Seems like your other issues like springs, shocks and other maintenance issues can easily be solved within your budget. The hard part is going to be sticking with that budget though, lol.
I have a 1987 XJ Pioneer with a manual 5 speed and a splitter in the driveway waiting for mild off-road upgrades. My grandfather purchased it new and it's completely stock and free of rust and body damage. Can't bring myself to cut the finders to run tires larger than 32s, but I'm going to give it a little lift.
I would highly suggest removing all the spacers and stuff, then get a nice set of 3-4 inch lift springs for the front and a nice set of deaver leaf springs for the rear. I would also probably put a front swaybar maybe a Currie rockjock bar. Cut out anything in the way of the tires and maybe replace all the steering and front track bar with a high steer/ track bar kit that will greatly improve the steering and general drivability of the xj. Long term would be front long arm kit and 4 link rear if you really want to go crazy. For reference I had 1 ton axles on my 2000 with 4 inches of lift and 40 inch tires with a lot of body cutting and custom rear fender stretch. The xj is a fun platform.
Thank t oh so much for the insight. I want to get those pucks out of there asap so that definitely on my radar. But definitely lots of good info. Thanks so much
@@OFFTHEGRIND no worries im just some dude that owned a Cherokee almost 20 years. the best part of Cherokees is that there tons of stuff for them ruffstuff in particular makes great suspension stuff for it.
Do you still plan to make it a rock crawler/camper or just for raw rock climbing ? I personaly prefer your overlanding trips, the obstacles are cool but nothing that i would watch as a primary reason. Every now and then a Vid about Rock Crawling isnt bad though.
Looking forward to see what you will do with the XJ. Your first modification on your list should be to get rid of the single shear bolt with the double nut job on your pitman arm, pretty dangerous...stay safe my friend.
Nothing wrong with a beater, but then whats the point of the Bronco if you can just trailer your beater everywhere? Even your beater has space inside for a ground tent or hammock if you're away from your tow rig. Seems a little redundant from my perspective as a minimalist, but I also doubt I'm your target with this. So if it brings in more views for the channel, thats awesome for you.
Off road: I only follow your channel and Maria's so content with the Jeep sounds like it would be fun. Did you post an update on Insta with the work on your arm?
5k for that ? You would pay 30+ in germany haha. Damn it sucks so bad not having a market here for that. Would love to get my hands on one of those. One question, what Shade did you use in your last video in the beginnig ? The one that goes over your Trunk area ?
Buddy, seems like you a plan here ....just a piece if advice ....think well before spending money on this old vehicle...because if it fails on a trail...you need to spend more on recovery too....all the best to you
@@OFFTHEGRIND It was meant as the XJ is 10 times the vehicle the Bronco is with all its issues in terms of a off road rig. Got almost 500k on my origional 4.0 and its still going strong.
Whatever makes you happy bro. BUT! I think you should have gotten a Bronco 2 or a full size 3/4 gen. Bronco instead of that jeep… I think that would’ve made more sense to have consistency with the brand… plus! I haven’t seen any videos of your quality involving those generation broncos, so it could give you access to upcoming business opportunities with those models… Forgive the rant! Peace!
If you want to see this build, please make sure to like and share this video! The more views means the more we can do with it!!
Better start practicing your jeep wave.
Love to see this build brother!
Yes of course:) but if you start collecting ducks I may have to unsubscribe 😉 jk
So many people building these old Cherokees..what’s so special about them?..jus curious..I was thinking about the Toyota Land Cruiser but I’m curious about the XJ too
@@breaker3269 for me, my brother had it, owed me money, so I said give me the jeep. Really mot much thought behind it lol.
But, they are light, front and rear solid axles with a bulletproof 4.0L inline six that is pretty torquey and great for crawling. Plus parts are super jeep
As a Jeep owner and off-roader myself, I'd love to see the XJ build. I'm predicting right now that you are going to love the beater XJ and especially the solid axles once you experience them off road.
Awesome! You’d be surprised how many of us want to see more XJ builds!
The first thing I do when I get a new Cherokee is make sure it has a fan shroud on the mechanical fan and install a manual override switch for the electronic fan. Those two things along with a up to date cooling system (good water pump/thermostat, new radiator, hoses, clean coolant) will keep it from overheating especially on the hot days. Also carry a spare crankshaft position sensor. Overheating from a poorly maintained cooling system and stalling due to a bad crank sensor are the two main things that have left me stranded with XJ's. I'm on my fifth XJ now.
Congrats on the XJ! I Will definitely be following along with the build!
Definitely interested in the XJ build. Bronco videos are #1 of course but love variety. Plus your passion is infectious!
Cool build idea. Looking forward to seeing what you do with it. 👍
I restored an 87 Wagoneer XJ, I like watching what other people do to their XJ's. Once you have one it's hard to get rid of.
Oh yeah, this is going to be epic! I'm looking to get into a Jeep myself and so seeing your build will inspire some ideas!
Had no idea you were a vet too. Long time follower of the channel and I dream of someday being able to take a trip with you. As a fellow vet who had some mental health challenges after leaving the military and now actively tries to get vets and now fellow first responders to open up and not deny the challenges out communities face I cannot thank you enough for using your platform to help push that message. Makes me an even bigger fan of your page.
Hell yeah, brother, that's a great idea. I enjoy watching builds and how they play out. I'm totally like you that I would never take my 4runner rock crawling. However, I've considered buying a jeep just to go beat it up on the rocks and just don't care about scratch n dents or broken parts. Cool bro, I can't wait to watch the build.
If it makes you happy it'll make us happy man. Super excited to see this thing come together and what trails you take it on. I hope this leads to some awesome growth for your channel
I too have started my journey on a xj project mine is a 98.
Big problem I had and gathered that a lot of xj do have
Over heating … got mine under control lol at last .
If that is still a Dana 30 up front with 35inch problems are abound.
I have taken a few steps on this journey, but still have a long way to go I’m no expert on this at all but happy to share information. I will definitely be watching your build! Thanks for the video!! and definitely your service!!
Thanks man, it was my pleasure! And that’s good info to have. Little detail was given on this jeep so I still need to figure out a lot. For example I don’t know which transfer case it has or what the axels are. Also had no idea overheating was an issue so I’ll definitely keep my eye out on that
@@OFFTHEGRIND
The transfer cases used are all chain driven with aluminum housings. NP stands for "New Process" which is the brand, if you will. The newer ones are NV instead which stands for "New Venture". It is the same transfer case just a different name.
NP207 - "Command-Trac" part-time only - 2.61:1 ratio low range - used 84-87
NP231 - "Command-Trac" part-time only - 2.72:1 ratio low range - shift pattern 2H - 4H - N - 4L - used 87-01
NP228/NP229 - "Selec-Trac" - 2Hi - 4Hi(full-time) - N - 4Lo (part-time) - used 84-87
NP242 - "Selec-Trac" part-time OR full-time - 2.72:1 ratio low range - shift pattern 2wd - 4part-time - 4full-time - N - 4LO - used 87-01
I found this on line when I first got mine if yours is still stock probably is the NP 231
As an overlander myself, I will always be more into your overlanding adventures with the Bronco. I love seeing the places you go, the overland experience you share, and the pure serenity of that. Having said that, it’ll be neat to see how this thing turns out too and what trails you hit with this, but I hope you keep your Bronco adventures as the main theme of the channel🙂🤞🏼 I love your channel and you quite honestly convinced me to consider getting a Bronco myself, and I truly appreciate your insight into how to optimize it. Keep up the great work David and thanks for all the work you put into your videos! P.S. For your beater rig you should get an old beater Bronco! 😎
Stoked on the xj build and can’t wait to see more content
Really excited to start this build!
Do it! Looks just like my xj and my same plans for my 98xj! Please post more
Definitely interested in this! The XJ is just one of those legendary vehicles...and it's always good to see the old girls out on the trails
I want to do this as well for basically the same reasons, keep us updated my man!
I love the XJ.
I bought a brand new one in the 80s. I ordered it without AC, with MT and vent side windows for about $15k. Limited slip rear also.
1st wife got that one and then I got another, a Limited with auto. Gave it to my son and he put a wicked camo paint job on it.
Love my Bronco BD I have now.
I sort of want to do something similar, although I will probably never get the chance. To live vicariously through you, hell yeah I would watch that!
That looks exciting, and the perfect project for learning more about off rock crawling! I'll definitely tune in for it.
Build it!
I want to see the harder obstacle adventure videos! 🤘🏻
Definitely interested in this build, go for it you got my attention
Good to know! Thanks!
Can't wait to see what you build. I remember the days when I had no money..... got what I could and did what I could do in the garage. All the other customizing was done by the trail
Yes we will definately watch the biuld!
100% will watch the build videos. 🤙🏼
As new members to your channel and patreon, we love your overlanding and camping trips. I even went out to Owyhee Reservoir after meeting up with Will to drive some of the trails you did. BUT I would love to see the build of this jeep and especially the rock crawling. At 60 years old, I’m trying to understand suspension builds and the mechanical part of our vehicles so this build would be great for us. Look forward to your future videos and maybe a trip with ya.
excited for the build man! glad you are doing better for your health that is the most important, cheers!
Iron Rock Off-road makes solid products, I wouldn't be worried about stuff from them as long as it's installed correctly. For a tired I6 engine I'd look at some new injectors from K suspension and maybe the upgraded cables. Those short control arms are deff maxed out. If you're looking to do a budget build there is soooo much information on Google specifically Jeep XJ junkyard upgrades has a bunch of cool stuff you can toss in it. Love the channel, keep up the great work from a fellow vet and lifelong XJ owner!
Super good info thank you so much! Glad to know I was on the right path with the control arm thought. Wouldn’t have thought to do injectors honestly but you’re probably right there. It runs pretty strong still but definitely needs some love
@@OFFTHEGRIND Yea man any time, I've had an XJ for a long time and love it, I can't replace a good mechanic but happy to answer any general questions you have. I grew up in the PNW (Washington) and miss it so much. From one vet to another, keep up the great work on here and love the videos!
Yoooo!!! Let’s go buddy. XJ is definitely a good budget off-roader. Looking forward to the build David
Definitely interested in seeing the build
Wow, you read my mind. I am also looking for an XJ. Not a Bronco replacement but to enhance the experience. None of my Son's have a narrow wheelbase vehicle that we can go out together and wheel. Many years ago I built a 69 Jeepster Commando. It was awesome. But, I don't have it anymore. I'm excited to see what you do with it.
Iron Rock is good qaulity, tear down the entire front and replace all the control arm bushings and clean up those arms wih a lil sanding and rattle can. If the $ is there sleave and truss the dana 30, sand it down and rattle can it too. Hope to see you succeed on a good rig at low cost. I own 2 xj's myself. 1 is dedicated trail rig , #2 is my daily and wknd warior...best all time out of the box 4x4 ever👍😀
I look forward to seeing some more videos on the XJ! I have also thought about an XJ beater to complement my Bronco!
I had a 2 door 4.0 1988 manual transmission Jeep Cherokee XJ. It was definitely my off-road beater. So much fun ❗
Month late with the comment but playing catch up with all my UA-cam subs. Build it and make the series. Get out there on the rocks and have fun. We will all watch the videos from the trails to the rocks
Build it. I bought my Dobinsons and Trailrax because of your channel. I am also in the market for an XJ to do the same thing you are doing.
Best jeep made! Lets see it!
The steering feels like it's connected by hopes and dreams hahahaha I can't wait for this build buddy
Haha dude it feels so sketch to drive right now lol
I'd definitely be intersted in seeing more of this build and future content. I also have a "main" driver (2023 4Runner OR) and an older 2004 Jeep WJ. The WJ has Iron Rock Offroad suspension and they're a pretty solid/known company, so your suspension components could certainly be worse ;) Seems like your other issues like springs, shocks and other maintenance issues can easily be solved within your budget. The hard part is going to be sticking with that budget though, lol.
Hands down one of my favorite off roaders
I have a 1987 XJ Pioneer with a manual 5 speed and a splitter in the driveway waiting for mild off-road upgrades. My grandfather purchased it new and it's completely stock and free of rust and body damage. Can't bring myself to cut the finders to run tires larger than 32s, but I'm going to give it a little lift.
I'll watch you break stuff. Plus I regret getting rid of the $600 '89 XJ I bought just to take me to Burning Man 😂. XJ's are rad!
Would love to see this build!! The old XJs are awesome
Found the channel because of the start of this series.
Excited to get this going!
I'll watch the build series of the XJ.
Great idea. 💡 I’d like to do the same some day
Those Jeep Cherokee's were some of the best vehicles ever.
I would highly suggest removing all the spacers and stuff, then get a nice set of 3-4 inch lift springs for the front and a nice set of deaver leaf springs for the rear. I would also probably put a front swaybar maybe a Currie rockjock bar. Cut out anything in the way of the tires and maybe replace all the steering and front track bar with a high steer/ track bar kit that will greatly improve the steering and general drivability of the xj. Long term would be front long arm kit and 4 link rear if you really want to go crazy.
For reference I had 1 ton axles on my 2000 with 4 inches of lift and 40 inch tires with a lot of body cutting and custom rear fender stretch. The xj is a fun platform.
Thank t oh so much for the insight. I want to get those pucks out of there asap so that definitely on my radar. But definitely lots of good info. Thanks so much
@@OFFTHEGRIND no worries im just some dude that owned a Cherokee almost 20 years. the best part of Cherokees is that there tons of stuff for them ruffstuff in particular makes great suspension stuff for it.
Sure I’d love to see this build, one of my first vehicles was a XJ that i lifted but nothing like this though
I would love to see an XJ build series!
Will still be with you no matter what. ❤
I’d love to see you upgrade the jeep. It’ll be cool
I’m interested. 2022 Black Diamond here, but when I was a teenager my parents owned a 93 red Jeep Cherokee. This is cool
I would love to see a XJ build.
Looking forward to seeing your Jeep build
Do you still plan to make it a rock crawler/camper or just for raw rock climbing ?
I personaly prefer your overlanding trips, the obstacles are cool but nothing that i would watch as a primary reason.
Every now and then a Vid about Rock Crawling isnt bad though.
Hurry King of Hammers is 6 months away!
I like your plans!
I want to see!
Awesome looking forward to videos
Looking forward to see what you will do with the XJ. Your first modification on your list should be to get rid of the single shear bolt with the double nut job on your pitman arm, pretty dangerous...stay safe my friend.
XJ rock crawler build great that’s how bleepin jeep started you should hit him up on the build he probably has tons of of parts
Everything you deal with i deal with regarding separation from the military. I feel you're pain. It's been 10 years now for me
I’m sorry to hear that man. I certainly hope you’ve made progress in heeling those wounds and finding a place in life again. It’s rough man
Look forward to seeing more, reckon would be great to see you guesting at Nate Dirt Lifestyle's place...
Yep I’ll watch
I have a 2001 jeep Cherokee xj I would like to see you build it and then use it.
That’s pretty much the condition of Jeeps as they roll off the production floor🤷🏻♂️💪🏻
I’d love to see the build videos
I have a jeep Cherokee and would love to see where you take it
Bro is going to start liking the xj more before long
Nothing wrong with a beater, but then whats the point of the Bronco if you can just trailer your beater everywhere? Even your beater has space inside for a ground tent or hammock if you're away from your tow rig. Seems a little redundant from my perspective as a minimalist, but I also doubt I'm your target with this. So if it brings in more views for the channel, thats awesome for you.
Plz do it. ❤
Off road: I only follow your channel and Maria's so content with the Jeep sounds like it would be fun.
Did you post an update on Insta with the work on your arm?
i would like to build that exact jeep ,so show me what you can.
jeez thats a rough xj
5k for that ?
You would pay 30+ in germany haha.
Damn it sucks so bad not having a market here for that.
Would love to get my hands on one of those.
One question, what Shade did you use in your last video in the beginnig ? The one that goes over your Trunk area ?
I’ll watch a jeep build
Buddy, seems like you a plan here ....just a piece if advice ....think well before spending money on this old vehicle...because if it fails on a trail...you need to spend more on recovery too....all the best to you
Xj build videos please.
Build it and film it.
The XJ will soon be worth more then the Bronco lmao.
LOL BUDGET build bro
@@OFFTHEGRIND It was meant as the XJ is 10 times the vehicle the Bronco is with all its issues in terms of a off road rig. Got almost 500k on my origional 4.0 and its still going strong.
Whatever makes you happy bro. BUT! I think you should have gotten a Bronco 2 or a full size 3/4 gen. Bronco instead of that jeep…
I think that would’ve made more sense to have consistency with the brand… plus! I haven’t seen any videos of your quality involving those generation broncos, so it could give you access to upcoming business opportunities with those models…
Forgive the rant! Peace!
Hooah. 85-97.
I bet we know 2 very different armies! lol
@@OFFTHEGRIND lol, most definitely! Cold war army was definitely much different than wartime army, but Duty, Honor, Country, never changes!