I might pick up a 1997 limited tomorrow.
Bad idea or good idea?

well, do you have another car?  if so, it might be a bad idea, but if you don't it's a good idea.[

What engine/drivetrain combo?

Yeah, i got another truck, but i'm going to give that one to my wife. i was looking at the cherokee because i can buy it cash(no payment), and since i've heard they're good trucks.

98 - check the brakes (warpage, how much left to turn down)
..radiator for leaks at the edges (plastic frame around aluminum coil)
...transmission fluid/slippage (burnt fluid, slams in gear)


Good luck..solid ride...I would not pay anymore than $6k.

get the 5.9 limited.

Faster than the new hemi's, lighter rig.

Picked up a 95 Cherokee with the 4.0L a couple of years ago.  Great vehicle.  Not really good on gas but astounding 4wd in snow and off road.

4.0 six, 5.9 is a sweet engine but a unbelievable gas sucker. SoSo electrical, warping brakes, [most 90s trucks are underbraked tho] the tranny HAS to be serviced on schedule, or it'll go out. Not a bad ride in all tho.

It's the 5.2 liter with automatic trans 4x4.
1997 with 90k miles for $5500.
Interior and exterior are nearly perfect.

shouldn't this be in the cars and bikes forum?

Not to bad, wait til gas hits 3.25 and offer 4900.00, bet he takes it.

Yes, this might be better in another forum, but i know here i'llget the most responses fast since i may buy the truckk tomorrow.
I literally don't know anyone that owns one. I'm in ford coountry.

No kiddin'.............with today's gas prices, you are definately in the drivers seat on this one.

vmax84

Have it checked thoroughly by your mechanic before you buy it, at around $40 it will be the best insurance policy against a problematic vehicle..and these can have thier problems.

GC's -and all other Jeeps with the 4.0L- will experience blow by in the engine as early as 50K miles, despite an improved setup within the oil control and PCV systems installed by '97. Ball joints are another big issue on GC's. Before long you will see oil in the vacum/PCV lines and hoses as well as signs of oil in the air filter housing in sever cases. I'm a former Jeep tech, and still service a number of them at the shop I work at today and I'm still seeing the same issues witht he 4.0L. I love the motor in Wranglers but not in the GC, that should have an 8cyl.

Oil leaks in the valve cover, and more serious leaks at the rear main seal are also very common, along with leaks in the transfer case cover gaskets and shaft seal.

That's all I can think of right now, but it's late