88 XJ for $500, should I buy?

Gmachine

Well-Known Member
Joined
Apr 26, 2005
Hello all. About two weeks ago I sold my 01 TJ and have wanted a cheap trail rig ever since. I was just tired of making payments on something that was never driven and too scared to trail ride hard with.

So my buddies got this 88 XJ that runs really rich and has a bad death wobble at 60 MPH. It needs a paint job, but I could care less about that. I just don't know much about XJ's. What should I look for? I know it's a 4.0/auto with TBI. The running problem is one of a rich condition with a tune up and new O2 sensor. My thoughts were a crank pos. sensor? It runs for about a 2 min. and cuts off.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Hopefully back on the trail soon:D
 
Check the cooling system, the earlier XJ's are notorious for over-heating problems. As for the death wobble, if it has been lifted 3" or more longer lower control arms and an alignment could take care of the DW. The running rich could be anything from the intake manifold sucking air around the gaskets or I don't remember if there is a mass air flow sensor on the earlier years but if so could need replacing. Check all vacume lines, and make sure there is not another O2 sensor. If there is anything else I can think of I'll let you know.
 
The Fuel injectors are probably leaking. How many miles on this XJ? Mine went south about 198K. A new set of Accel injectors for $170 solved the problem and she runs strong ever since.

Check for rust above the muffler, usually the backseat floor board on the passenger side. Mine was rotted out. Also check the air cleaner for oil, a sing of blow by from the valve guides.

Gary
 
Thanks, I'll check for all of that tonight.

As for the suspension, it's all stock for now, but will definately be getting a lift at some point.

Is there a better lift for these than other brands?
 
I have a rough country 3" lift and a 1 1/2" spacer from Quadratec and I like it. The springs flex very well and the overall is a little stiff which is better for road handling. No squishy body rolls in the curves.
 
Yep, the TJ is gone. ARB's and all. I should have taken out the lockers, but sold it much quicker than I thought.

I spent more time looking at the XJ tonight and feel I would be buying another persons problem!!! It's got a remaned motor and quite a few bugs that need worked out. The bodies solid w/out rust. I'll keep my money and keep looking. I'd still like to have an XJ though. I can't afford another Wrangler.
 
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