[CA_ZJ]

Hey guys, Im a :newbie: here, I recently sold my CJ and was planing on getting a XJ, but I saw some lifted ZJ's and they are sweet! I dont know much about them though, what are the good/bad years and what are things to look for (axles,t-case,trannys..ect..) I know some came with a D44 but it has a aluminum centersection and its hard to find parts for? So what should I look for?...I want a V8 too.

 

[B-ROCK]

First thing would be to look for one with a 242(2hi-4FT-4PT-4Lo) or 231(2hi-4hi-4Lo) t-case (preferabally the 242) I have the 249(Quadratrac) and am lookin to swap in one of those. I think, but am not sure, i think all V8's came with the 249. I have a 95 and have been pleased with it, i dont know much about the good/ba years but some of the other guys do.

 

[CA_ZJ]

The 249 is a full time all wheel drive correct? Doest it have a low rage?(doubt it)

 

[cherokeekid]

the 249 does have low range 1993-1995 the case did not lock in low range. If you are planning to swap the t/case out that would not be an issue wahtever year you did go with. some 1993 and some 1994 models did not have rear disc brakes and all had the d35c in the rear until 1996 when the AL44 you mentioned became available (only trac lock and some crazy $2500 viper locker is available currently)

It really depends on what you plan on doing with it and what you are willing to change.

BTW, what does it smell like down there?

 

[CA_ZJ]

Im not sure what you mean that the 249 does not "lock" into 4low. It seem's to me that I want to stay away from the AL44, I will swap in a TJ44 in the future. What was the first year of the ZJ?(1993?).

 

[cherokeekid]

1993 was the first year. With the early "non-locking" cases it is possibly to spin one tire in low range if you get hung up basically 1 wheel drive vs 2 wheel (one front and one rear in 4 locked)

 

[CA_ZJ]

Oh OK, I see what you mean, wow that can be a real big problem when doing some twisty trails like I like to do. Hmmm.....seems like the V8 is no longer on my wanted list due to this . Thanks for all the info! :thumbsup:

Brandon

 

[cherokeekid]

1996 and newer do lock. or just swap in a 231/242.

 

[James]

http://www.nagca.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5020
This has a lot of miles but should ber a very good deal.
96 tru 98 or the best years unless you want a standard trans then it is the 93/94 models.

 

[CA_ZJ]

As for good deals, Im buying mine at a dealer auction for around $1300 ...NOW THATS A GOOD DEAL!

 

[James]

Easy now?
I was just trying to be helpfull.
As for your good buy.
I would rather spend the extra money to get a known variable,
Than to risk an unknown variable.
Andthe one i pointed out already has alot of great stuff going on it and with it. :spam: