Jeep Cherokee - Project XJ Overland - Introduction

[@timh.5442]

Teenage boys. Vehicle that you can comfortably sleep in... Brave father ;)

[@TrailRecon]

LOL, good point!

[@joeshmoe2168]

Soon to be grandfather !

[@mynamenowhastobeasecret.2079]

69 likes

[@the_real_greywolf]

You make it sound like its a junker. Looks pretty good for the age. Love these old jeeps they are the last of the reliable years till 2001. Thanks for sharing your project!

[@kevinengland4675]

Looking forward to this build 😊

[@TrailRecon]

You and me both!

[@Slaters_RC]

I remember when my jeep looked just like that. Mine has come a long ways. Looking forward to watching this build.

[@TrailRecon]

I hope our XJ turns out as nice as your's! Thanks!

[@anthonydivita523]

Awesome!! Im almost 17 and im saving to do the same thing! Cant wait to see how yours turns out!

[@TrailRecon]

Awesome, hopefully we can give you some idea for your build!

[@FarmTechMaker]

I'm excited to see this build. I also think for $2500, you got a really clean xj to start with.

[@TrailRecon]

Awesome! It really is clean... especially compared to several that I look at over the last couple weeks that were asking much more.

[@danielmunoz128]

I just bought a 93 xj 2door 5 speed 167k with some rust. For 2800. I live in Chicago. Have been working on it Little by little. Wondering if I should have waited and looked around bette

[@mainambiter]

awesome buy! i think this jeep is a pinnacle of form/function, should be in museum of modern art.

[@marypoppins9596]

That jeep is gonna be badass when she's done excited to see what the future brings with it

[@TrailRecon]

I hope it meets the badass seal of approval!

[@jasonchappelear6963]

99 is probably the best year to have. Awesome find

[@TrailRecon]

Great to hear, thank you!

[@maximusilive4theking986]

I have an 88 xj, power window and locks still works, it has a newer engine and tranny, I just did the whole suspension, with new track bar, stabilizer shock, all new bushings, shocks etc... crazy how well they hold up.

[@atonicassassin]

I know I'm late but I'm using these vids as inspiration for when I pick up my own xj

[@roosterd4206]

I’ve got the same color. Mines a 98 2 door and it will be mine for life.. absolutely love it.

[@rogue109]

I'm looking forward to this series and seeing what you do with this Cherokee. I think the older Cherokees are amazing overland vehicles when properly equipped.

[@TrailRecon]

I really hope she turn out well. Thanks!

[@balablue1717]

Project XJ is awesome for $2500. The boys are lucky to have this. Good luck

[@jamespresutti8666]

Yes! I have a 16 jk but honestly love my 98 xj just as well 3.5 inches with 31's winch lights bumpers custom paint ect. I wish I could add photos here

[@TrailRecon]

Sounds like a solid XJ! You can post your pics on our Facebook page!

[@Abundanthealthcoach]

I’m drooling over this Jeep. Looks great

[@rbarber1004]

I think you did good on the buy and it has lots of potential can't wait to see whats to come

[@TrailRecon]

Potential, elbow grease and the wife permission to buy stuff are all I need! Thanks!

[@franciscovasquez4555]

You've got a great base to start with, you're a great help for product research

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks... I thinks its a solid foundation to start with.

[@greenstarship]

This is perfect timing for me. Got a stock, clean 97 in SoCal this year and want to do very similar things to it. Really looking forward to seeing the suspension, gears, bumpers, etc that you put in.

[@TrailRecon]

Right one, let me know what you do to your rig along the way!

[@therambler0001]

That's the Jeep I would get. Plus a XJ 99 Cherokee. Sweet find.

[@geekytechycool]

You're right, finding a cheap (ish) XJ that is that clean is real tough. Even more so finding one that is well sorted so good on you! Looking forward to getting caught up on this little series, seems there's about 8 or so videos to watch.

[@TrailRecon]

I think if I was in another state, I probably could have found one a little cheaper.... gotta love CA!

[@jad21964]

My first Jeep was a 95 XJ. I really loved it, but wished i had got something newer like a 97-2001. You got a great deal and a great vehicle with lots of potential.

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks, I don't link she will turn out to be a lemon.

[@MasonCanner]

i just got a 1999 XJ as my first car, so I cant wait to watch these other videos you made on it!

[@TrailRecon]

A great first car!!! Hope our videos are helpful.

[@ProjectAjax]

excited for this. xj is a great budget jeep with potential

[@TrailRecon]

Just finished doing a little work on it tonight... more to come!

[@outlaw9232]

Nice find. I'm looking forward to watching the build in progress. Great idea for some father / sons bonding time too! Lucky sons you have.

[@TrailRecon]

Should be a good time in the garage for sure!

[@htimsrM]

What a great find..very clean and capable offroader..looking forward to more info on this project.

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks, should be a a fun build!

[@c_d_rock]

Such a great deal! Can't wait to see you and your sons spend some time on the rig!

[@TrailRecon]

My boys are really looking forward to turning some wrenches and hitting the trail.

[@javiroo1743]

I bought my 2001 xj a couple weeks ago all done already lifted, gears, lockers, bumpers, winch and much more. kinda wish I had just bought a stock xj and built it my self. it's always cool to see it grow into something cool. by the way I just subscribed, can't wait to see the build.

[@TrailRecon]

Sounds like a nice rig, nothing wrong with buying it built as long as you wheel it! Welcome to the channel!

[@kelcybrooks9334]

Looking forward to this project!! Sounds like a great plan. I think the overland builds lead to really unique vehicles. Good luck!!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@JeffTorres-iy8lq]

I know this is an older video, but love your stuff! Just bought a bone stock 98 XJ Limited w 187k. Got in the paint shop now…looking forward to following your series here!

[@IFHSP2]

Glad I found this. I just bought a 98 XJ Limited, bone stock, one owner. Be doing something very similar.

[@TrailRecon]

Congrats on your XJ and best of luck with your build!

[@TheTurboSmart]

Cant wait to see what you do this XJ! I got one myself and I look forward to seeing your builld!

[@TrailRecon]

Right on! How long you had your XJ?

[@nathanoller4921]

Great jeep with a lot of potential. I'd say the price was excellent for something that's unmolested. Also, price highly depends on geography in relation to where you live, so asking the Internet is going to get you all kinds of different responses.

[@TrailRecon]

I agree geography plays a roll in price for sure. Lot's of potential I think! Thanks!

[@pslmaverick]

great truck!! lookin forward to the build. "rock the box"! enjoy it kids. xk owner, regearing next week.

[@TrailRecon]

What gears are you going with?

[@pslmaverick]

nitro 4.11 gears, the XK has a 8.25 Chrysler rear diff and a 8.0 Mercedes front diff. My suspension was shot too, I went RRO on the lift, upper control arms, and rear track bar.

[@Charris2218]

i can't wait to see this series, I plan on doing this with a 99 xj as well after my 07 jk

[@TrailRecon]

Everyone should own more than one Jeep! LOL!

[@Venom-kq5xz]

Wow that’s an overhaul but I imagine this isn’t too bad. Plenty of potential and hopefully no hidden rust pockets.

[@719_overland]

Luckily, 35s and a gear change will be an easy and awesome upgrade for that Jeep, growing up my brother and I did something similar with a Cherokee and it work great. Overhauling then is easy there are parts both from the market and aftermarket that make it a super easy and fun build, good luck.

[@TrailRecon]

I'd love to run 35's, but have a bit of research left to do before I decide. Thanks!

[@azrwilkinson]

Looking forward to seeing the progress.

[@TrailRecon]

Awesome!

[@tomstarcevich1147]

you guys are so lucky you don't have to deal with salt on the roads in Chicago that jeep would be a rusted hulk

[@TrailRecon]

Still a bit of rush underneath, but I'm sure noting like what you guys get.

[@montanawild7558]

looks like a good start. I work at a fabrication shop and I am building a 95 Honda Passport/Isuzu Rodeo. I have a 4 link from Ruff Stuff Specialties and a Toyota solid axle for the front. I built a bumper and roof rack too. it's going to be a beast, and it feels good to build your own 4x4. I paid 1700 and it's runs perfect, Amsoul in everything. I look forward to watching your build progresd

[@TrailRecon]

That's what I'm talking about. I really wish I had some good fabrication skills and a welder! Thanks!

[@BubbasgarageTv]

So cool this is going to be an awesome project. Looking forward to seeing this build.

[@TrailRecon]

I'm excited to get stared for sure, thanks!

[@GoingKnowhereSlow]

this looks like its going to be a great build

[@TrailRecon]

We are pretty excited to get started! Thanks!

[@Blackdiamondoffroad.]

TrailRecon you did a great job finding that xj my first vehicle was a 96 xj with a 3.5 lift and 31s it made me loves jeeps. today I have a 99 jeep wj jeep . keep up the good work 👍

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@greggalbo7713]

you did great for $2,500!! cant wait to see it finished. i have a 97 XJ that i am building for overlanding as well.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you and would love to hear about your build as you go along!

[@JoesGoldenGarage]

This is awesome! My very first new car I bought when I turn 23 was a 1996 Jeep Cherokee country with four-wheel-drive. I remember it was $23,000 out the door and I was in love. Back then though people we're not doing builds on their jeeps quite like they are doing today. I wish I would've hung on to that jeep I only kept it about 8 to 9 months and sold it with 8000 miles on it. I still regret selling that jeep to this day. I know if I would have kept it I would have babied it and loved on it. then I would have been ready to do something like your jeep overland. Hindsight is always 2020 isn't?

[@TrailRecon]

Sounds like it was a great Jeep, good news is you can grab one for a lot less these days. I can't tell you how many cars I regret selling... 1972 Firebird!

[@saev55]

awesome can't wait to se the the progress on that xj

[@TrailRecon]

Excellent!

[@trailrunnah8886]

Sounds like a great build! Good score with that XJ...here in New England it would be about the same price, but most of them are rotted terribly. One of the major reasons I got rid of my 97 ZJ 4 years ago was that the corrosion was taking over. I'm so jealous of you West Coast guys and your rust free sheetmetal! And I bet all the bolts underneath aren't frozen either. And that Firebird! Droooool....

[@TrailRecon]

We are lucky to not have salty roads in the winter and I'd give anything to have Laura (the Firebird) back!

[@trailrunnah8886]

TrailRecon You sure are! I was in San Diego and LA last year, and was anazed at the number of clean older cars running around! I even saw a few fairly rust free IH Scouts! Those are pretty much extinct around here. And I love Firebirds, I have a '00 Formula :)

[@TheBeardedJeeper]

Wow that thing is clean! Can't wait to see this thing come along. I want to get a 2door xj down the road to build up.

[@TrailRecon]

I love the 2 doors, but could only find them in 2wd, plus I wanted to the extra cargo space with the 4 door.

[@AW-xv7dq]

awesome... time for a binge watch

[@user-wm5fv2ib9p]

So much potential! Can't wait to see what overland mods you have planned. Sold my last expedition XJ for a JKU... still miss that rig.

[@TrailRecon]

Lot's of mods to come, but first have a lot of basic stuff to knock out. So many older cars I use to have that I miss... wish we could keep them all! Thanks!

[@markgueren9633]

really clean!!! can't find something like that here in the north east!!! can't wait to see how it progresses!!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@benjaminholman1086]

I'm just now watching this first video so I'm not sure if you've already covered it in the later ones, if you have please ignore me. But your vibration is almost certainly from the tires. They are trailer specific and not rated for passenger vehicles. They most likely have that on the sidewall. Most ST tires are bias ply and all of them are out of round. Good luck with the project! I'm looking forward to watching along with the build.

[@TrailRecon]

You are 100% correct! As soon as I read your post I went and checked, yep trailer tires. Can't believe I didn't notice that before. Good news is they are no longer on the XJ! Thanks!

[@Seacureray]

looking forward to see the restoration, like it!

[@TrailRecon]

Starting soon... thanks!

[@FXEENEY]

Looking forward to seeing this progress!

[@TrailRecon]

Awesome, thanks!

[@aheil314]

Think you got a pretty solid XJ with a lot of potential! To upgrade the headlights, I highly recommend you look into H4 conversions - I got HELLA 003427291 for my 99 - there are a few good options out there. Also I installed a relay harness to bypass the too-thin stock wiring. Between those two changes my headlight output is way better than stock. Looking forward to seeing more of this build!

[@TrailRecon]

I'll be sure to check out that H4 conversion, these lights suck! Thank you!!

[@jayspliffjr2759]

I've got an all stock '00 two door and I get that shimmy at 55mph too haha

[@frozentwiddlelump]

I'd be so happy if I could find one that clean for that price. Up here, north of the border, anything around that year I've looked at has pretty nasty rust damage.

[@McGeeNZ]

Subscribed! Also just picked up a 95 Cherokee for the same purpose. Can't wait to see what you do with this.

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks and welcome to the channel!

[@KevinSmith-xb1kj]

Go ahead and get a 4 1/2" in. lift kit! With the unibody, your limited to what you can do. Trim the fenders, do a cut and fold, behind the rear tires. You'll be glad you did the cut and fold! Get you a junkyard 44, for the front and put 35's on it. Cheap lockrites, and you'll have it made!

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks for the tips. I've read the 8.25 is better than the 35's, have you had some experience with the 35's?

[@diegotobar6839]

Subscribed for this Project.. looking to build my own this year!

[@TrailRecon]

Awesome, welcome to the channel and hope it helps with your upcoming build!

[@blazin4fun72]

I love a good Jeep Cherokee. I'm on my second XJ, first has over 240K and I just picked up a 97 with 141K.

[@blazin4fun72]

oh yea, subbed

[@TrailRecon]

240K that promising for me! Thanks and welcome to the channel!

[@ferik.-aerodron1854]

beautiful video - I pray for your viewing

[@joshsstreetrods]

thank you for getting away from jk's. not everyone has enough spare cash to cut up and beat on a new car. thank you for building something more budget orientated.

[@TrailRecon]

I'm hoping we can keep the budget low! Thanks!

[@edreiguerrero1817]

nice. I want to start a project of my own and your project just inspire me to try to get the same jeep

[@maxdorito]

This will be fun to watch. Just picked me up a 98' Cherokee in the same condition. Needs some TLC. It's my new daily driver while my 15 JKU sits pretty in the garage. Maybe get some ideas out of this build, might do something mild with it.

[@TrailRecon]

Congrats ont he new Cherokee! I've also got a 15 JKU in the garage, but more comfortable to daily drive that than the XJ.

[@مصطفىموفقرشيدالنعيمي]

i follow your adventure video from iraq and i want to tell you are avery good person and have beautifull family💓best wishes

[@danhambrick6331]

Great find...Cant wait to see the build.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@RockTrooperJeep]

4.0 and AX15 are extremely durable. You can do a rebuild of the engine with a stroker upgrade and get some serious HP/Torque

[@TrailRecon]

I'm hoping they are extremely durable! A stroker would be awesome, but lets home i don't have to rebuild it for a while.

[@jacintolepe5805]

Hey I'm late to the comments but that's a steal. I've been looking for 99 jeep XJ and i can't find one that cheap.

[@JeepSolid]

That's exciting Brad! Looking forward to see what comes of it.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@ms3er396]

WOW Really interested in following your videos on this. I just picked up a super super clean, nearly new, 2001 XJ Limited. 1 owner, bone stock with only 85,000 miles on it. Best of all I picked it up for $5k. Always garaged and this one is perfect inside and out. Mine has a brand new headliner making it 9/10 inside.

[@TrailRecon]

Sounds like you found a great deal! Hope the videos are helpful.

[@JeepingNet]

Great Project!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@marcusmolyneux6422]

those tires age like father time

[@TrailRecon]

Ya, I've put about 100 miles on them so far and surprised they haven't shredded off the rims yet!

[@AdmiralOffRoad]

Woo! Nice purchase!

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks! Will be checking out several of your videos as we start getting elbow deep in this project.

[@onefastcyclist]

Looks like a good find - a clean xj for less then 3k is a keeper. Why not build a trailer with overland amenities with off -road tires and keep the jeep clean?

[@TrailRecon]

The trailer is a great option and maybe something down the road for sure. My boys will be driving the XJ primarily, so not sure I trust them just yet to wheel with a trailer! LOL! Thanks!

[@villagomezjaime96]

in my honest opinion i wouldnt add a light bar. some truck-lite head lights and a good set of pods should do the trick

[@TrailRecon]

Light bars are overkill, but I just happen to have an extra one.... we'll see.

[@its.me.colton1553]

Congrats on the buy! Im interested to hear what sleeping system you plan on going with!

[@TrailRecon]

I've got a lot of research to do... thanks!

[@its.me.colton1553]

Well you can do a roof top ten or you can stuff an air mattress in there.

[@RockyXTV]

This is gonna' be good!!!

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks, I thought so!

[@gzig61]

Every XJ shimmies a bit at 55!

[@that1indianak267]

I have been following use guys since your 1st XJ build an use have got me into building mine. Always make great videos. I would like one of your stickers to slap on my truck . Maybe a couple 🤘 let me know

[@Sad-Reference]

No rust. Freakin Cali

[@kraybrother8768]

must have a straight 6 in that bad boy

[@TrailRecon]

Yep, 4.0 straight six.

[@AaronWiggin]

My 99XJ is Jealous of all the glorious rust free metal. You don't find XJ that clean up in the Northeast.

[@TrailRecon]

LOL! That's one thing about buying vehicles on this side of the nation that is a plus, very little rust.

[@AaronWiggin]

TrailRecon when you get to the point of rock sliders check out naxja.org and look at replacing the rocker panels with 2x6 steel. Makes for a hefty replacement.

[@sledhead250]

unless you want to hack up those fenders i would go taller than a 3.5" lift. mine is 4.5 closer to 5" on 33's and had to cut my fenders out

[@mainambiter]

the only thing I'd LOVE to see on it is a Diesel. they got it in EU. Any ideas?

[@RyanMarcyesOutdoors]

Ok this should be pretty RAD to watch, I just found the channel and am MTBer and Camper. I am also just starting to get into the overland scene and am think of doing my own project since my wife I;m sure doesn't me me messing around with her 2010 Ford Expedition Limited EL. LOL!!! But, really looking at something to get the three of us out in the woods. I also have watched little bits of other videos and noticed you have said military. So are you retired military? I am retired US Army SFC 11B,16/42A,4 (back issues). I grew up in SoCal (Riverside & Rancho Cucamonga), now in NorFlo. wife is from here. Enough of me, I am totally digging the channel and keep bring the great content. Also remember to Live-Life-Loud!!

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks for checking out the channel, really appreciate it! Yes, I retired from the Navy in October, although still working full time now. Overland Expo was a great place to get lots and lots of build ideas! Good luck on your project!

[@Valgrind850]

Wish my dad would let me build a rig like that, I'm begging just to get a Jeep patriot

[@TrailRecon]

Don't know much about the Patriot, but I have to think someone out there has done a build on one.

[@MaCherieMcAli]

I know the feeling, but go get a job and don't wait for your father to buy you anything. Just do it your self.!!! Save Save and Save don't use the money for anything else... When your dad sees that you wanted that bad maybe he will pitch in and help

[@nwmissouribroncos8035]

First of all I really enjoy the channel. I’m going to start on an XJ build. Already have the Jeep. When I search for lift kits most of what I get is Rough Country. I wanted your thoughts on them. They seem to be love them or hate them. I live in the Kansas City area. I’m looking for an overland build. It’s 600+ miles to any serious trails. Need to be able to drive this thing long distance. I’m a reasonable shade tree mechanic but this will be my first time with a lift. Any thoughts would be appreciated! Will

[@072D00003674]

Lovely color. Does any one know whats the paint code of this Cherokee

[@jorgegonzalez785]

Hi , What would you think will be the Lift Kit for a Cherokee XJ ?

[@BrandonSchumacher9519]

My new xj to me has barely any rust on it everything works and I got it for $800. IL cheap jeep lol.

[@TrailRecon]

Wow that's a heck of a deal... can't find em that cheap here in CA!

[@BrandonSchumacher9519]

TrailRecon I know it! As soon as I seen it. I told the guy I'm buying it no matter what and sure enough a few days later went and got it. Sold mine for $850 and got a nicer newer one for $800. Check my channel for a update coming soon. In depth tour walk around mod ideas and more.

[@spreaddeezhazelnutz7511]

TrailRecon I know right. I finally bought a stock 2001 xj limited for $8000. I was very impressed for the price because the dude had every factory option like the very rare front bullbar, power driver and passenger seats, heated seats, and the infinity sound system. And it only had 130,000 miles on it which is nothing for an xj. I mean 8 grand was a hell of a deal. Happy holidays and happy jeeping. Nice Jeep by the way. I also subscribed because I want to see how this project goes. 🙂

[@TrailRecon]

Sounds like a great XJ, thank for the Sub!

[@spreaddeezhazelnutz7511]

TrailRecon I'm grinning like an idiot from it still. It was a steal. But yeah no problem for the sub

[@appleguy1986]

Brad, I have owned many XJ's over the past 25 years. If I can help with my knowledge of XJ's, feel free to ask at any time.

[@TrailRecon]

I'll be sure to pick your brain! Thank you!

[@BKAGOSTO]

Great project bro. Keep the great vids coming. Any stickers for my rig available

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks! Working on getting some decals... soon I hope!

[@racertracer12]

i own and same jeep color year everything

[@TrailRecon]

Right on!

[@danielvaughn8869]

Can't believe this thing had trailer tires on it. Someone at the tire shop didn't know their stuff.

[@phantomofkrankor1]

I love my JK, but I never should have sold my XJ. I regret it every time i see one.

[@willgrace5747]

Make moreeeee

[@Mrrandom707]

Dana 35? Or does it have a Chrysler 8.25?

[@alviedude2343]

Have a 98 jeep that recently bought and want inspected to see what i need to change / fix where would you guys recommend i go

[@TrailRecon]

A good local mechanic is a good place to start, but if it has been modified and off-roaded a good body shop to check the unibody isn't a bad idea/

[@alviedude2343]

@@TrailRecon anywhere specific in mind? Some one who i can trust to be honest . Phoenix az area

[@TrailRecon]

Sorry, don't know any in AZ

[@jesusfelix2605]

New sub!!!

[@TrailRecon]

Awesome, welcome to the channel!

[@lelandeggleston1041]

Please put uni-body stiffeners in.

[@TrailRecon]

For sure we will be strengthening things up!

[@lelandeggleston1041]

Good to hear. I made the mistake of skipping them and wheeled hard before the cage was in and now my doors wont shut.