BLand Cruiser
Observer
I know someone that has one with only 78,000 miles on it. I was wondering if this was a good vintage for the Cherokee. Thanks!!
Is '88 a good year for Cherokees?
- Thread starter BLand Cruiser
- Start date
TerryD
Adventurer
The Re-Nix fuel injection is pretty good and easy to trouble shoot is what I've heard. You'll have ALOT of vacuum lines to go over and check for leaks and broken spots. The closed cooling system can be a pain and most people switch over to the later open style where the coolant reservoir isn't pressurized. Could have a D44 rear axle in it which is a plus. Have you looked at it really good? Was it parked for some reason? It's rare a Jeep Cherokee doesn't get alot of miles racked up on it. I'm getting closer to 250K on my 98 every day!
XJINTX
Explorer
The vacuum lines can be a pain! It probably has a disconnect front axle? That can actually be a plus. My 87 has one and I added an Aussie locker and replaced disconnect with a PosiLok cable select. Therefore when in 4x4 I actually have a kind of selectable locker 
My 87 has the 2.5L with 82K and I love it. However, I also have a 2000 with the nice options and newer systems... really love it for camping and expos!
My 87 has the 2.5L with 82K and I love it. However, I also have a 2000 with the nice options and newer systems... really love it for camping and expos!
BLand Cruiser
Observer
Thanks, everyone. Another question: What kind of gas mileage would I expect?
Might help to know which motor it has (and tranny).
4.0; maybe 18 stock, 15 upgraded.
If it has the V6, run, dont walk away. Renix works, dont let anyone tell you otherwise. CAD works too.
4xdog
Explorer
I've had an 88 XJ for about 20 years. I like the seats from that year -- especially on the Limited models with separate headrests. I like the lack of an under-dash knee bolster and the lower dash profile from this era -- defintely more comfortable for this six-foot-six driver.
The Renix system, while largely orphaned, is reliable enough to forget about it. The transmission and transfer case are pretty solid. The closed cooling system is the main concern -- air pockets in the system cause hot spots, cracks in the plastic pressure bottle lead to elevated temperatures and fluid loss, and radiator corrosion can be a problem. If it's cared for, it works fine. If the cooling system has been neglected, it'll lead to problems. The vacuum system is tricky. Under-the-hood is pretty easy to check and repair. Into the dash is more problematic, although less important to driveability. HVAC, cruise, vent position all need good vacuum.
Depending on weight, drag-creating accessories, and driving style mileage for the 4.0 L can be as high as 20-22 mpg and as low as 15-16. Figure 18 typically.
The Renix system, while largely orphaned, is reliable enough to forget about it. The transmission and transfer case are pretty solid. The closed cooling system is the main concern -- air pockets in the system cause hot spots, cracks in the plastic pressure bottle lead to elevated temperatures and fluid loss, and radiator corrosion can be a problem. If it's cared for, it works fine. If the cooling system has been neglected, it'll lead to problems. The vacuum system is tricky. Under-the-hood is pretty easy to check and repair. Into the dash is more problematic, although less important to driveability. HVAC, cruise, vent position all need good vacuum.
Depending on weight, drag-creating accessories, and driving style mileage for the 4.0 L can be as high as 20-22 mpg and as low as 15-16. Figure 18 typically.
BLand Cruiser
Observer
Would that be the "H.O. 4.0" I see in ads?
BLand Cruiser
Observer
Cool, then the 4.0 in either form is the straight 6. I had one in a CJ-5, years ago. It was a great engine.
stomperxj
Explorer
Chrysler electronics/ignition and HO is 91 and newer and the HO has about 10ft-lbs more torque and 15 ish HP
rikinwyoming
Observer
It would not be the 4.0 HO (high output) they did not come out till later years...