Should I buy it ???

[bgreed]

OK so here it is. Found a 2001 Cherokee for sale 173,000 with a 4.0 body in good shape AC not working, needs a connecting rod and possible piston replaced (sounds like number three) says there is a coolant leak, needs new tires before winter, starts good and will run. Oh also needs a new fuel injector. Guy wants $1200 for it I figured to offer him eight. So what do you think should I jump into this???? I have owned a jeep previously so can do the work myself.

[XJ Wheeler]

If you can do the work, and understand how much goes into it... Go for it! I did something similar and got a great deal, ended up being more work than anticipated but i don't regret it. Learned a lot and got to feel something great... success! Think on this bud. Its not a small project so make sure you can dedicate time and money to it. Otherwise you end up with a pile sitting around and its always a thorn in your side.

Sent via messenger pigeon - i talk, he types.

[Brasscatz]

Yeah, try for 8 and hope that the problems aren't too serious.

[denverd1]

that combo of issues could be head gasket or cracked head. 01's have 0331 head i think*. not a deal killer, but like others said talk him down. super easy to work on these, heads are plentiful

[bluedragon436]

I'd def so go for it, especially if you can get it for $800.. I'd say either you could rebuild the current engine or even pick up another from a JY to save the money.. but would def be a decent deal either way!!

[rabies]

iv been dealing cars. sounds like a nightmare and bad investment if you cant get it for under $800.
could always source a used motro for $200-300 and drop it in. comes with injectors n ac compressor.

[NW99XJ]

I wouldn't spend a dime over 800.... and I would go with the motor swap option before rebuilding the one that in there, unless you're up for the challenge.
Like others eluded to, plan on a head swap at the very least if you're gonna do it.
It's most likely not going to be a quick turn, and could open a can of worms as you get into it more and more, but if you CAN invest the time and money into it, it'll be a worthwhile project in the long run.
Good luck.

[bluedragon436]

Did you ever end up picking up the 01 Gregg?? Was wondering how it all worked out, if you chose to pick it up or not??

[bgreed]

On Saturday I made the guy an offer of $700 figuring he would counter higher. I explained it was because the engine is such an unknown. ( He's not a mechanically inclined type) I also told him that in truth as it sits it's basically a salvage case where he might get $400 for it. He said he would have to think about it. I think he's just waiting for his craigslist add to run longer to see if anything better comes along. So we'll see what happens.

[bluedragon436]

Yeah that's probably exactly what he's doing.. Hope it works out for you, and look forward to seeing pics of it as you get it up and going..

[bgreed]

Just got the call got the jeep for $750. Will pick it up on Thursday will post some pics. With a little luck it will just need a new connecting rod piston and rings, a new fuel injector for number six and a recharge on the air. Probably will replace the front and rear main seals as well as all the connecting rod bearings while I have the oil pan off. We'll see if the head needs to be replaced and of course the main seal will get replaced. Lots of greasy fun in the near future.

[XJ Wheeler]

Congrats man! Gonna be a fun project.

[Rocco83]

Awesome man congrats!

[denverd1]

Sweet! Congrats!

I think the rod bearings are bit aggressive but won't be too bad if you've got the head off. all sounds like doable stuff!

[EekGirl96]

Sweetness...itll be a fun project! I look forward to some pics and seeing the build :)

[bgreed]

OK so here's the pics as promised. Unfortunately won't be able to start the tear down till next week http://s233.photobucket.com/user/bgreed/media/112.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0
http://s233.photobucket.com/user/bgreed/media/111.jpg.html?sort=3&o=1
http://s233.photobucket.com/user/bgreed/media/110.jpg.html?sort=3&o=2