New Jeep Owner

Hi all,

I have just recently (like two days ago) became the proud owner of a 1988 Jeep Cherokee Loredo I6 4.0 with the tow package (not by choice I have to admit as I love wheelin Yotas) But I do admit I am proud as I know plenty of people who have jeeps and love them!!

So with that said, I am not new to workin on my own rigs and have a few problems with this one that need to be dioged and fixed.

1. Blowing luke warm heat - not going above 120 degrees
(I am assuming due to reading some great stuff here that this means I should flush my heater core to start. My Blower is fine and works on all levels - any other suggestions would be great)

2. Back up lights not working (I have checked the bulbs and can't find a fuse for it. I have a manual 5 speed and I read something about the Neutral Sensor - more info would be great - PS I am looking to toggle switch the back up lights anyways so should I still check the sensor?)

3. When I shift to 4th but mainly 5th gear I hear a kinda grinding noise coming from below my 4 wheel drive shifter - I am thinking transfer case maybe? anyone else who has had this issue please respond

So far from what I can tell everything seems to be running smooth, engine is strong, clutch is fine, will need to do the normal maintanence stuff, as well as I noticed a leak around the valve cover (I6 btw) easy cheesy though.

From what I have read there are some great peoples here with some fabulous knowledge and I look forward to turning this rig into Country Girl's XJ and I will post pics as I progress on this project.

Here in Western Washington we do alot of wheelin and I would definately like some suggestions on lifts and such. I am not looking to go big as I am not rich and do not want to start modify drive shafts, and so on. I am thinking 2 inch lift, 30 to 31 in tires etc. Right now she is also my daily driver so I have to be careful until I get another daily driver (you all understand) then game is on!!!!

Anyways, I look forward to meeting some of you online and maybe on the trail some day - till then - keep on wheelin and I look forward to your suggestions and knowledge!!

Country Girl :)

check your thermostat, maybe a faulty one or one set at colder temp, I would not worry checking the back up neutral switch, just hook it up to the toggle, I am doing the 2" lift and adding some 31 x 10.5. Take some pictures and post the before shot! I am planning on tracking my progress with photos! See ya around the board! :smokin:

Thanks scuba4321

I have to make a correction - I checked my Thermostat last night again and it reads around 160. My Bad - so I am thinking I need to flush my heater core. (sure wish my roomie didn't leave the hose out - it froze :(

Thanks for the info on my backup lights tooo. I saw a really cool way of doing it on someone elses post - put the lights on either side of the license plate. That looks really good.

I will definately take pictures today and post them - I am excited about lifting it tooo - I am looking at going the cheaper route and using Rocky Roads 2" lift kit. Anyone else use this and what are your thoughts (problems, etc.)

Thanks again

Hay cntrygirl, I wouldlook at the 3" Rusty's or the Rubicon express 3" lift. These lifts are functional and don't require any mods to your driveshafts. You should be able to run 31's on your 88 due to the larger wheel wells, that is compared to the 00 XJ. I have the 00 Xj and installed the 2" from rubicon, it works fine, but left me longing for a higher stance and larger tires. As your backup lights go, there is a switch on the side of your tranny that operates them, saves having to run wire. As your T-stat goes, I think that you should have a 190 degree stat in there. Also look through the posts, there are a couple about getting rid of the "closed" radiator system and going to an "open" system. Good luck, and recommend getting a 4 ton Come-along, I have used one to get myself out numerious times, also a GOOD tow strap. Have fun.

Thanks gtmud, I will look into the 3" lift. As far as the back up lights go, I think I am definately going to go with the toggle, it's nice to be able to turn them on at will :) like blinding the jerk behind me who is tailgating me (hahaha just kidding).

I am excited to start this project - I have the domain www.washington4x4.com and will creating a site soon that will show the progress as well as pics of our trips.

Look forward to any more advise and suggestions from you all.

CountryGirl
"It's a Mud Thing"

Hey, don't complain about the tow package, as many of them came with the dana44 rear end from the factory. As for the frozen hose, stick it in the tub for an hour. If you do need a new radiator, I can get them used for about $40. Let me know if there is anything else you need. And my brother has the rusty's lift on his 94 xj and loves it.

Thanks MX - if I decide to go with the open radiator system I will let you know.

CountryGirl

what is the difference between a closed and an open radiator system?

95xjsport:

Type this into search forum box and read this posting: pre 92 jeep closed radiator conversion