Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
Minor update:
The fates are conspiring against me getting new shocks and ball joints. I had the alternator crap out on me Tuesday so, after putting kiddo to bed, I got some wrench time in and now have a shiny new alt and battery.
Knocking around the garage last night also drove home how badly I need to reorganize, clean, and prep the space for more serious work. Seeing as my car budget has been eaten up through mid-January, I'll be focusing my energies on getting ready for the suspension work.
Till the next time, hope everyone has a merry Christmas, Hannukah, time with the family.
Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
Merry Christmas to you also
Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
is a bit chattery.
run MMO or anything through it?
Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
A bit chattery I can handle.
I ran Seafoam through the crank case before the last oil change (about 400 miles ago), MMO was going to be the next additive I give a try and I've yet to run any fuel treatments through it. TBH, my wrenching experience stops at the engine and transmission beyond regular oil and filter changes. I've worked on/replaced everything bolt on (pumps, exhaust, full suspension, brakes, etc) in the past, but have been intimidated by messing with the engine and drive train.
I'm seeing evidence of valve cover and oil pan gaskets needing replacement as well as the main seal, so I'm working up the courage to start cracking things open. This weekend will be changing the oil in the rear diff and seeing how that's wearing so you'll likely see some pics of the opened case.
As always, thanks for the input, and any advice is most welcome.
Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
New alternator and battery earlier this week. Popped the rear diff cover and all is looking well after 215+ miles. Now for some clean up and new oil.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/2016...08d099fd25.jpg
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
1 Attachment(s)
Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
And over a year without post, well done Mike.
In the intervening months there has been some progress made in the garage, as well as some fairly major life events which have set things back a skosh.
Since the last post I've replaced the alternator, distributor (dizzy, cap, and rotor), swapped in some 8mm Taylor Cable spark plug wires, champion plugs, starter, and ignition coil so hopefully there's that system sorted for awhile. On the plus side, I've got a new helper who's more than happy to hand me tools.
I've also gotten Synergy ball joints, along with new tie rod ends installed. Confirmed hubs are still in good condition (found receipts for their replacement dated just before I took possession of the XJ).
Still hemming and hawing over what to do with the suspension. Practical side of me says to go with Bilsteins and keep the Jeep at it's stock height. On the other hand, I can put off the purchase till the end of the year and go for a full suspension swap and 2.5'-3.5" OME lift. I've still got some hemming and hawing ahead of me on that one.
Meanwhile, next on the list is new header and exhaust. While I'm at it, I figure I may as well throw in some new motor mounts as they are likely stock and worn out as well. Brown Dog seems to be the current leader in motor mounts but I'm open to suggestions. As far as exhaust, I'm looking for a more deep, mellow sound instead of a load/throaty scream as this is will remain a daily driver garaged in a sleepy suburb. If anyone has a more conservative exhaust they'd recommend, I'm all ears.
Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
As far as suspensions go, I think the OME would be the way to go for you. They ride nice and don't lift you high enough to get you into additional expenses. I see you have a helper there. Good to start them young
Re: Slow and Steady: '99 XJ
Another vote for OME. A bit pricey yet can improve ride handling and quality.