Things to Consider Before Buying and Building a Jeep Cherokee XJ

[@4RnrRick]

Living with OCD can be a challenge, however knowing and accepting that you are like that (as am I) is a huge part in enjoying life and knowing when to stop. Enjoying your vids from Oregon, USA.

[@elliottk8228]

Hey I’m from oregon too!

[@BlessedVeteranAdventures]

From the Desert, Phoenix, AZ

[@belableier]

You are not a loser Mate. You are a good guy, who loves cars, loves Jeeps and loves to maintenance them. Don't worry about those people who think you are a loser, they don't know that how good that feeling when you driving your own serviced truck. That feeling when you driving on the road and people waiving you because of your car. That's a matter. And I know that as a Longtime Xj owner, who built his own XJ, I know that feeling. Anyway, I wish you good luck Mate with your Xj. 👍🏼

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Appreciate that! I enjoy it a lot and I guess that's the main thing. Everyone needs a hobby. It's a great feeling building somthing you can use and enjoy like this. Thanks for the comment and for watching!

[@mrwes100]

Pure passion.

[@jordy46682]

Wait, what? Who thinks he's a loser? He makes me feel like a loser because I can't even begin to comprehend his skill levels with multiple things! It's kinda depressing watching Mike's videos because you realise how much you suck... 🤣🙈

[@imxela6]

Dude you made my day. I was have a shit evening. Then I heard what you had to say… my XJ is currently saving my heart and soul… thanks for sharing homie. Godspeed… sending you props from East Los Angeles, California US of A. cheers

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Glad the video can help and sorry you were having a bad day. Happens to the best of us. Its nice to have a project to focus things into. I spent four hours last night sanding and masking off this thing for some paint work. Not fun but kind of fun at the same time. Take it east and thanks for watching.

[@north.by.northeast]

You hit the nail bang on the head when you said it depends the individual person. Having a decent workshop/area and tools/kit definitely helps but ultimately it boils down to whether someone has the mindset to do the graft or not. A long time ago I spent my 20s stripping down each car I bought, doing (amateur) bodywork to repair rust damage (plus basic mechanical/engine work), outdoors on the drive, leanring from my dad and 'Mr Haynes.' A fair bit was was a pain in the arse, frustrating, sometimes painful, but crucially I wanted to do it myself; and early 80s cars were relatively easy to pull to bits and work on. Feel free to waffle away to the camera for half an hour as often as you want, you'll always have an audience :)

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I guess that's the main thing isnt it. The 'wanting' to do it much like anything. It sounds like you have done your fair share of automotive work then hahaha! Certainly easier to pull part older cars than the new stuff. I have no idea how to fix new cars, especially engine work. I think one dy I will pull the engine on my Jeep and drop in an old mechanical diesel like a Cummins or Mercades engine. Thanks for watching again mate and I will waffle more next time! haha

[@GoatOffroad]

I love my XJ!! We have spent a fair amount of money on it. But considerably less than spending $50,000 on a new rig and then another $15,000 on aftermarket parts. We actually found our first spot of rust on it today! We are going to deal with it quickly! These are getting harder and harder to find in good shape! I think this was a great video Mike! We talk about this topic all the time! And I’d take my XJ over any new 4X4 any day of the week! And yours is one of the nicest out there! BTW absolutely love my 4.88 gears and lockers front and rear!! Definitely the WJ conversation is on our list!!

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I think that's it isn't it. A new vehicle is very expensive without the parts. Doing the work yourself makes a big difference as I'm sure you guys experience. Rusts a pain in the ass and I'm lucky to not have much, but being a UK jeep it's guaranteed in some areas and the drip rails are my last big job. Good that your catching it early, its hard to find a nice xj these days!

[@danhubert9775]

Right on Mike. Love the older vehicles that provide us a hobby and something to work towards. ✌️

[@tixons]

Thanks Mike. My first car its a XJ 2.5 TD and I love it even though everyone tells me it's the worst engine Jeep ever had, for me it's all about care and good handling. Thanks for you knowledge

[@DestDroid]

As someone with a floating b pillar because my inner and outer rockers were shot I completely agree on the rust sucks. If you have a little starting, fix it now! It only gets worse.

[@mrwes100]

Mike, I started following you religiously during the early bushcraft days and now on here. I’m not a mechanically inclined guy, and I don’t do car restoration, but brother, for some reason I love listening to you! It’s like stories by the bonfire - enjoyable. I know others must feel the same way.

[@shilohandme3697]

As you say. Mechanical is the easy part. A friend gave me a 1984 XJ that was sitting in a field in Oklahoma. I completely rebuilt it to stock with all new parts and it was lots of fun. I then stalled on the body restoration. I’m a new subscriber and really enjoy your videos. Thanks👍🏻

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Body work is not for the faint hearted but its certainly worth the effort when done. That's a good friend to give you that 1984 XJ, an awesome project and quite an old one. Hope its going well and thanks for watching and subscribing.

[@shaunmccaw2911]

Still watching mate hard to switch off 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@sylvanbowyer341]

I hear you. I'm building an XJ right now too. Some of us just like to make things, and perhaps need to. If a person is a maker of things, a project vehicle is an amazing experience. If a person is not a maker of things, a project vehicle would probably be a nightmare.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

That sums it up what you said there. Some people would be board with an off the shelf vehicle that they couldn't play with.

[@jamesa7506]

Whoa! Your thumbnail pic is a future picture of you in about 30-40 years, all grey haired! Really going for that "distinguished" look! A fine job you've done not only on the jeep and shop but in life from what you've shared with us. Hats off to you my friend!

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Filler dust and paint dust. Hopefully I go grey but bald might be first lol

[@jamesa7506]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness nevermind that, was just having a go at you.

[@adamcarty8970]

I have 2 of these xjs one 2.5TD VM (owned for 7 years with no problems standard engine) and one 4.0L petrol im in the uk and don’t have a garage and your definitely giving an honest opinion owning these jeeps is just job after job money after money but If your the type of person who enjoys that you look forward to doing the jobs I’m no mechanic either and my jeeps aren’t perfect but I wouldn’t swap them for anything! Best answer is these don’t cost an arm and a leg the prices have gone up a bit but there still cheap in the uk just buy one and try it is the best way. Great content mate you have helped me with lots of stuff just through watching your Channel and what you have done to the jeep is inspiring. all the best

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Its certainly job after job but like you say you have to be that way inclined and look forward to them. Good to hear your vm is stil gong, most get scrapped these days which is a shame due to the cost of spares. The yare still so cheap over in the UK though, here in Sweden they want 8k for a decent XJ, prices are going up here. I might drive back and buy another and import it again. Thanks for watching and for the comment, best of luck on the jeeps also.

[@dennisbo5004]

Exactly !!!! You said it perfect 👍 . It’s my therapy as well. Great explanation.

[@051biohaz]

Another great video man, thanks for the update...the jeep is looking great..:)

[@Cameron9788]

Great video mate!!. Could listen to you talk about it all day tbh haha. I'd certainly watc the uncut version 😂. Some great advice for sure. Would definitely love to do this kinda thing one day. Miss our old Surf. Awesome stuff Mike!. Garage is looking great now you've done that!

[@TheCherokeeAdventure]

Hey , at 8:40 I felt it so much! I had to wait so much time, cause of the transmission Thing.. but as I was covered in dust and dirt the first time after almost a year, as I but longer shakles in the back, I was so happy and satisfied! Love your passionate mindset and your attention to details. Cheers mate

[@copperconadventures]

Hey Mike. I just did mods on my 2017 JK. I put in a heavy duty clutch, Power Stop brakes all the way around, 2.5” Terra Flex lift, Yukon 4.56 gears front and rear, and Yukon electronic lockers front and rear. It’s made a world of difference in my off road performance. I’m currently running 33” tires. The parts were $5100 dollars U.S. and the labor was about $4400. Expensive but well worth it. V3 Jeep in Louisville, Kentucky did all the work. I had a good experience there. Neil G.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Sounds like it's going to be quite a lot of fun to drive off road now Neil! Certainly expensive in some way but enjoyment is the key to it all and I'm sure your getting that side of it from the what's been done. Thanks for watching!!

[@Eee-yn8cp]

Keep this up Mike! I truly look up to you

[@rickywroe]

This hits home. Currently restoring a classic mini and Jeep XJ and both are very rusty. Sometimes I just want to give up. But my OCD keeps me going. I can't just drop something half done. One day they will both be on the road. Keep up the great work bud.

[@GrizzlyPath]

Holy smokes the garage looks great! That’s gonna be fantastic this coming winter. I liked your discussion on older/project vehicles, it highlights why I had to let my Nissan r50 go. While not as in depth as your Cherokee, it was older and required more and more work. When we had the baby I decided to cut my losses and change vehicles, more trail time and less garage time. I do like the garage and DIY work though, so a project vehicle will likely be in my future again as the baby gets older. What it’ll be? I haven’t decided yet…

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Thanks mate, been slaving away on the workshop trying to get ahead of the winter. It's small but it's adequate for home maintenance. Its when to cut your losses sometimes. You can't keep pouring cash into a project and there comes a point where you have to evaluate it all. I'm in deep with the jeep but I also love working on it so it works for me right now. It certainly is nice to have something that just works like you guys.

[@blister4walken]

All the effort is worth it. You have kept yourself busy, and made a vehicle that gets you and your family out into the wild. More of a lifestyle than a hobby. Keep at it. 😀

[@brixham20]

Great video Mike. Everyone needs a hobby, life's to short. Great advice. 👍 Keep doing what your doing.

[@johnnyhaigh6872]

Mike, I love watching this xj build series. I read that comment (yes, that one) on your previous video but in the spirit of not feeding the silliness I will instead thank you for putting the work in to make these videos. They provide me with a much needed source of inspiration to get cracking with my own xj (its currently on a rotisserie jig awaiting the shot blasting) I can really relate to your current situation, my daughter has just turned six now and she spent the weekend with me scraping off the old underseal. Money for the hungry xj is tight so I do what I can, when I can but I'm determined to get it done. I too love the process. I wish you and yours all the best and for those that notice that you may appear tired in your more recent videos....well, of course. You've shipped out to Sweden, had a kid, got a house, got jobs in a foreign country...all of these are hard by themselves. Anyway, to avoid rambling on I look forward to the next instalment. Thanks again.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Thanks Johnny, appreciate that a lot and its great to hear that you are enjoying the build videos. I've got quite a few to come over the coming months. Its a brutal job getting these old shells stripped down, blasted and cleaned up. Respect to you and your daughter for doing it. It think its the best first step, getting the foundations so to speak all sound before getting in too deep. Max certainly keeps us busy alongside everything else in life. Thanks again and appreciate the support!

[@samr9736]

@13:19 "...I get really into this sort of stuff, don't I?" Haha, I can relate. Great channel. I have owned two XJs (both 4 litre straight 6s) and this makes me miss them!

[@ittakesaworld]

I always appreciate your super powers. To see excellence applied, is heartening and inspiring. Thank you!!!

[@Lou1ouze]

Hi, good video, clean work and sweet ideas. I just felt the same about the cars of that era. Value is going up and we won"t make them anymore. This year I finally had a bit of money to spend on a fun project. I bought a 99 patrol 260 2.7TD with the high roof :) At the same time I poured a slab and put a used lift. Happy man. Take care

[@jcricket-vr5xr]

Well mike you are one hell of a fabracàtor and machinest I wish I knew half of what you do great job thanks for the vidios

[@zjeepster9077]

I just started watching your videos! By far the best point of view! Everything you do and how you do it the way you explain is fantastic! I enjoy every video! Plus you give me motivation to finish my xj to start overlanding again!! Be safe and keep up the beautiful work! From Florida!

[@Mr13bIRL]

Solid Advice ! Buy Once Buy Right. I didnt and spent 5 years chasing rust and issues. Spent a small fortune. But initially thinking I was gonna save money. Ended up replacing complete front end, sills, Arches etc etc. Will NEVER do it again.

[@brolle87]

oh! an old benz ❤️ I have a xj, where i have put in a mb 300d engine for the fun of it. no supernice job, but it works

[@jayfromtexas6718]

Great advise. So many of the vehicles from the 80’s and 90’s started rusting the day it was driven off the lot. Hard to find anything that’s not completely rotted out.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Its really hard to find anything that isn't rusty. I think if I bought another I would just strip it and repair it all before doing anything esle.

[@jayfromtexas6718]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness just so I'm up to speed, this is your second jeep?? Or is this the green one? I was totally amazed when you did the rocker replacement video. That was a work of art!

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

This is the only xj I have owned. The same one from that rocker panel video. There was never a green one, just this one. I did own a liberty before the XJ

[@robbienorquay4916]

Thanks for the video. You inspired me to go outside and fit the eBay solenoid kit I bought for my XJ’s transmission. (Expat living in Austin TX)

[@TonyJaboney]

Cool vid! I've owned an old FJ60 Landcruiser '88. Very fond of this era of vehicles but damn, it is a very expensive hobby, and it sure takes a lot of effort keeping it in proper shape while also using it out in the bush. Sometimes when I see your vids I get the 4wd itch, but nowadays I just don't have the time and cash for a hobby of this magnitude ;) Cool to see you enjoy it so much. Awesome job on the Cherokee, very impressive!

[@chrishendriks3205]

Some people will never understand why a person would put such a huge amount of work into a car. We have owned a ‘96 XJ with the 2,5l diesel for 5 years. On the second day it bended a lifter rod, so I fixed that. After about 25.000km it had a broken lifter and I completely overhauled the engine. Kept it for about 3years (ca45000km) and had a lot of fun driving it. Next one was and still is a 2001 Xj 4.0l which We are taking care of for almost ten years now. We have suited it for us as a rv with rooftop tent and all the camping gear to fit on top and into the car. It has its issues and limitations. It requires a fare amount of money and hours of labour invested in it. Bud we will keep it for as long as we can.

[@ccaldwell8556]

I've been very happy with my SYE conversion, especially after using the wedge shims to make the rear pinion point in the proper direction. I did it when I was replacing the drive shaft because it was bent. I'm looking forward to see how you work on yours. Your videos are the best. Really appreciate you sharing them. I love the way you work... I work the same way.

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

G'day mate, Mike mentioned SYE conversion, forgive my ignorance but what is that ? Cheers Duke.

[@ccaldwell8556]

@@eyeofthetiger4184 SYE (Slip Yoke Eliminator) conversion is removing the original rear part of the transfer case that "slips" onto the driveshaft and replacing it with a yoke for a double-cardan that will be bolted to the driveshaft. This is usually necessary for lifts over a couple inches because the new angle causes driveline vibrations and the new extended distance to the rear pinion may cause the driveshaft to slip out of the transfer case in extreme flex situations. When doing the conversion, it is also necessary to replace the driveshaft with one which has the double-cardan joint at the transfer case end and the slipping part closer to the rear pinion. Several companies provide a kit one can buy to do the conversion. Depending on the model and year of Jeep, it can be as simple removing the original parts and bolting on the new ones. I have a 2000 XJ with an NP231 transfer case and the Rubicon Express version of the kit made it easy.

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

@@ccaldwell8556 Thanks for taking the time mate, well explained, I'm with ya. Cheers Duke.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Ah that's good to hear, I hope it makes a big difference. I was considering a Hack n Tap as it cuts the cost in half here in Europe but I will have to see. Thanks for the comments and for watching!

[@dantheman7719]

Excellent vid mate... awesome workshop.... Love the hunting videos on your other channel...was wondering about the firearms laws and regs over there... Anyway stay safe all...❤️

[@TaralgaBushAdventure]

Thanks Mike. If you've seen my channel, I got a WJ Jeep, but my approach was a little different - I wanted something that I could get value out of. What I mean is, a decent WJ would go for about $5k in Australia, but I got mine for $900 as it needed repairs. I always kept that $5k number in my head, and once build and repair bills got past that level, I knew the next major break would be the tipping point. And so it came, and I decided to stop spending money on it, and try something else. But it was a great experience, good learning, and it was able to get me out on many adventures. So I feel I gave it an extra adventurous life, and that I got my value out of it.

[@fol3564]

Mate you need to write an XJ build book, I'd buy it and I'm sure a lot of others would too

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Haha, maybe one day. I still have many jobs to do before I could live up to that. Would be fun to write though. Thanks for watching,

[@erichimes3062]

I have two XJs- and a third in dry dock for when my boys take up the hobby

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Thats pretty cool. I would like another one just to store it. Maybe the young man will take it on. Thanks for watching

[@erichimes3062]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness P.S. my wife’s XJ is exactly like yours, same color, but not as modified. Rust-free, too🤘🏻

[@RenoLaringo]

Just bought a 2001 2.5td Cherokee and it uses a bit of water. Gasket is new, no visible leak, no water in oil... Kinda frustrating to figure out where this water goes. Other than that, NO RUST to be found anywhere except a bit on the rear bumper. I have to get it thoroughly serviced and cleaned and start from there. Nice to have such a place to work on your truck. At least you're not out in the cold which is not always fun.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Thats an unfortunate situation and often it can mean a cracked head. They always seem to go between one of the water channels in the head and the exhaust valve so they slowly sip water until the crack is large enough to visibly over pressurise the cooling system. If you take the cap off of the expansion tank and get the engine up to operating temperature its a good way to check. If the coolant spills over or bubbles its a cracked head. Nice that the jeep is clean 👌 rust is always such fun, not.. The winters are so dam cold here, without the garage I think I would have gone mad. Not fun. Thanks for watching

[@RenoLaringo]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness Thanks for the input mate! Really appreciate it👍. Yeah cracked head has also crossed my mind. I've got invoices from the previous owner who had it repaired for a head gasket. It looks brand new indeed. But I guess if I cannot find anything faulty with the water pump, thermostat, hoses and radiator, I'm in for a head change. Never mind, there's no better way to get to know your car than wrenching on it 🫣🥳 Thanks for the advise on how to check for air pressure build-up in the cooling system. I will definitely do that. I wish you a blessed one!

[@jared2235]

very well said! i'm excited to see the wj swap i want to do that as well

[@ConstantThrowing]

Question is: how are you so capable at so many things? Always amazed at the list of skills you possess.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I tend to try and learn skills out of necessity but mainly because I get a get my drive and buzz from achieving things. I enjoy hands on work I guess. Thanks for watching and for the comment!

[@ConstantThrowing]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness in some ways, with the move I suppose you've cornered yourself (in a positive way) in to having to learn a bunch of this stuff in order to get by in such a remote part of the country. I really admire your attitude, behaviours, and how honest you are about dealing with things emotionally. There's a lot about this channel and MCQ that I find really aspirational. And same goes for Meg! She's got a really calming presence and, like you, is brilliant with little Max. The two of you together seem like the perfect team. Lovely to see you three doing well, and here's to the future.

[@ConstantThrowing]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness also the jeep is incredible, in terms of looks and how functional it is. Has to be my favorite one out there, and I've seen a lot of custom jeeps over the years!!

[@michaelarchangelthehammer]

Good thoughts...Thx for sharing

[@forreststrong797]

I've had my Cherokee for around 10 years it's a 1992 all our cherokees are 91-93 those are my favorite years. It wasn't very rusty but im in the middle of redoing a bunch of stuff. I like to keep everything nice and that's difficult ill take the entire vehicle apart to properly clean/fix/maintain things. Right now my interior is removed and I properly replaced a floor pan that I repaired years ago then removed all the seam sealer looking for rust I didn't really find any rust other than a couple spots but I wanted to stitch weld or fully weld the seams in some areas then put all new seam sealer. I also bought brand new custom built axles to install and I have the whole undercarriage removed. I have a list with over 200 items I have to do while it's apart. I'm a little OCD too with everything with actual OCD. Things turn out so nicely when done properly and with attention to detail it's the little things that really add up and stuff really bothers me when it's not right. I have some parts cherokees in the backyard and my wife and I both daily drive cherokees we've had quite a few. I still have my first cherokee which is the one I built up.

[@12121212tolv]

Awesome work man! Not like an Volvo 245 but i guess its OK ; ) Hopefully i´ll see you this winter! Maybe some snowboard in Solberg!

[@appalachianbushcraft6335]

Keep up the great work!! Cheers

[@MajorWeakness]

Love XJs so much I bought 2

[@seanmacdonald8476]

WJ brakes will definitely be a big plus congrats on finding the parts! The gears aren't too expensive if you're doing them yourself. Just did them myself as a first timer (4.56). Dana 30 front will need a new carrier and I think you have the 8.25 so oddly enough if you're using the stock carrier you will need to shave one of the gear teeth to get the pin back in the carrier. With all that OCD you mentioned that will likely grind your gears (pun intended). Good luck and don't forget to tell us how the new height has been working for you.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Hey Sean, thanks for the details. Yeah the WJ swap is on the cards mainly just for safety and stuff. My dana 30 is at 3:73 now and from what I read a new carrier isn't needed? Yeah I read about having to shave a tooth. That's super wierd to me lol

[@Music4BalletClasses]

Great vid, good candid information. I've watched all your videos on this vehicle and love following your progress and methods. I've always wanted a jeep or maybe defender from this era to take overlanding, but with 6 of us to cart around I've had to settle for now on a large van. It's of a similar vintage though, '95, and I'd agree with everything you say. Vehicles of this era are uncomplicated and can be great to own and are getting more and more rare - I almost never see another one of mine. However, despite doing large amounts of mechanical upgrades and work on suspension, engine, brakes etc as you say that is easy. I've spent many many hours chasing rust, cutting and welding bits of floor, arches, doors etc. and even if you do it yourself, it takes ages, costs a lot of money and it is really hard to get a repair to be invisible. Still, I wouldn't change it, love the van and like you say - it's almost therapy! People would look at me lying under this old thing every weekend and think why on earth doesn't he just get a modern one on hire purchase, but that's not the point is it? Long may you continue!

[@mtate02]

Have you considered installing an electronic anti-corrosion device mate? Might save you a bit of work in the future.

[@pjccwest]

Thanks!

[@randal1470]

Yup. Crazy as a bag of hammers. 😄 Yeah lockers are expensive. I think its a wise move to get happy with your gearing first, and the driveline as close to bombproof as you can, before locking it up. Lockers introduce stress and strain at points in the driveline that never see appreciable stress with an open diff. Including suspension components if you have lots of torque and articulation available. Love your jeep man, good stuff.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Thanks for the advice. I think and SYE, driveshafts and maybe chromoly shafts would work well before lockers, but maybe just the SYE for now! I think my axles up front would just snap If I locked it up in deep snow now. Thanks for watching.

[@russjowett2137]

Hi Mike great video as always! I totally agree with all the points you raised. I’m hopefully re gearing to 4:56 beginning of next year. I’m going Detroit truetrac in the rear axle as it’s probably the best option based upon what’s available for the 8.25.and cost. Air lockers have no long term reliability in our climate of -20-35 Each by winter. Truetrac not ideal on iced over roads. But got to drive it like the Jeep that it is. I personally find I have to try real hard to get a rear wheel in the air, and if I do I will apply the ebrake to make the truetrac work for me. The front is staying open as I simply can’t afford an eaton e locker in the front. Mike that lunch box locker that John at bleepinjeep is using in his yellow Cherokee could be a good option for you. At $400us. I know I mentioned it before. And I agree on ice it would be terrible. But you could take it in and out each year. Because you and I both know your diff covers come off probably at least once a year lol. Mike is your 8.25 fully open in the rear or do you have a clutch type lsd in there currently? When I get stuck in the deep snow with my open 8.25. A few clicks on the e brake really helps me back out sometimes. I adjust my power mirrors down so I can see both rear tires from the driver seat and apply more and more e brake till I see them both start to spin together. Then start to move steering wheel l to r while giving it gas. Doesn’t work every time. But it has saved me having to get out and shovel a few times for sure. Look forward to the next video. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I thought about a truetrack and a lunch box but like you say its just the worry of ice and it drifting on corners. Again you're absolutely right, air lockers will fail for sure in these conditions. My 8.25 is a lad style clutch pack in the back. Surprisingly It works pretty well in snow. It's not ideal though so a selectable locker is the option I'm looking at. Maybe an Ox locker? Expensive and best to do it when I'm regearing.

[@togray619]

Your Jeep looks good and I bet it also functions great for overlanding.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Appreciate that. Its not bad but hopefully I can make it a bit better this winter then try it again in the snow. Thanks for watching

[@HEIPPI]

Just today i hit our VW Golf bottom to a rock while on a forestryroad and immediately thought about your truck.... damn :D I've really been dreaming of a pick up Hilux/Navara/Ranger or something similar. They are really expensive here though.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Yeah they cost a bit here. Maybe a Mitsubishi Pajero or a Grand Cherokee 4l as they don't cost as much.

[@HEIPPI]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness How are the diesel taxes in sweden? Here they can easily be over 1000€ per year for a diesel car.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

There high here. I pay around 750 euros a year in three quarters

[@gibrigg]

Great video, thanks for doing it! What’s the best used 4x4 to buy? One previously owned by you.

[@TheFishingExperience916]

Ofcourse I made it the end my OCD wont let me not finnish one of Mike's videos lmao but jokes aside great video and very motivating I'll have to wait until I move out of a apartment and into a house 👍

[@oleroy4749]

I love mine. But it has been a lot more work than I thought. Only rust I have is the rear bump stops in the unibody. Just bought rear frame stiffeners and 12 cans of Steel-it. I’m not looking forward to doing the job tho.

[@whitey5159]

I’d be super interested to know your opinion; After watching your video, it’s left me in two minds. I currently am in the market to find a relatively good condition Jeep XJ. However, I have no workshop, limited tools and about enough experience to do a full service on my current cars. Would you still recommend to take on a project like this, with things like rust prevention, repairs etc. Even without somewhere to do it. I have all the passion to give, just currently no facilities. Let me know what you think! Thanks for your time and your informative videos.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

When i first started mine I worked outside for the first four years. Its not an issue with things like suspension and general maintenance but it is an issue with body work and paint. Personally I would go for it because I would again and there is no time like the present when your buying something that's getting rarer and more expensive every year. I would just try your best to find one in the best condition possible. Inevitably they all have rust and it can wait in many cases to be cut out and fixed, but rust around window seams, the roof and structural areas like the frame need addressing quickly. Take your time looking for one, I know many who haven't due to inpatients and they have thrown money at rust buckets which in my opinion is only worth doing if you have a workshop and can do jobs slowly.

[@whitey5159]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness Awesome, thanks for replying. That’s really boosted my confidence. I’ll look out for the best one I can find!

[@motogibronius]

Keep the videos coming. Not looking forward to raptor linings my 98 XJ or installing the 4.56 gears and LSDs I just ordered. 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@petebravo7180]

It's not as bad as you may think. I raptured the inside of my tj and regeared and installed a lsd and detroit locker just take your time is the key.

[@motogibronius]

@@petebravo7180 does the raptor seem to soften up with heat or off gas? Or did you lay carpet over it? It’s on my project list for the interior.

[@petebravo7180]

@@motogibronius no issues with heat but I'm living I Ireland so it doesn't get that hot here. It did off gas for a couple days but then cleared up. Nice and durable even stands up to my mastiffs chisel claws with no issue.

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

G'day Mike, what a valuable and well explained vid mate, .........as usual !!! NIce workshop upgrade, been considering a pot belly stove, but more space, maintenance, etc. Personally, mine is similar but more attuned to wood work so ....probably not gonna ever do a "complete" vehicle. However, the principles are still the same and yep rust and wood rot really get my goat, lol. Not sure OCD, yours or mine, is actually a problem; Make it better than it was before. Make it to your own spec, needs, vision. Everyone does need at least one hobby to forget about everything else. A sense of accomplishment. Get a buzz using the end product. Look forward to the coming projects mate, big or small. Cheers Duke. P.S. I still reckon diesel is the go for the outdoors. To my, in fairness, limited knowledge, more consistent torque/pulling power even after all the modern tech, but happy to stand corrected.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Hey Duke, thanks for watching mate. Yeah your probably right, I shouldn't really use the term OCD but more like perfectionism which just means I can get quite obsessive until a jobs done right. I guess it has its merits but its also something I have to walk away from time to time and keep the balance. Ah nice, that's cool that you have a wood working shop. What kind of work do you do in there, or make I mean? Wood rot must be a pain, i'm admittedly not very good with wood. How do you fix wood rot? With metal I weld in new. I do love the diesel, its not half as bad an engine as people say it is. The original heads are not brilliant though so changing them makes all the difference.

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness Mate, if a job is worth doing, might as well do it properly and to your satisfaction I reckon. Sure, a break is prudent, if not essential, we all need that, plus, I find coming back with fresh eyes often reveals alternative solutions or perhaps a more efficient way to approach a task. Yeah predominately wood work Mike, I still run an old stick welder and have metal working skills but I'm a lover of the warmth and grain of timber and whilst I do anything that needs doing around the house, I like to make furniture, mainly tables, cabinets and the occasional stool or chair, (reclaimed timber is all the better). With the rot, its much the same in principle as metal, either cut the offending area out and fill, or ideally replace the piece completely, one can not afford to leave ANY behind, it's just as insidious as rust over time. Might of mentioned previously; I'm only running a Mazda CX-5, 2.2 Turbo Diesel. With the rear seats down, plenty of room for my kit and gets me into suitable base camp locations, then I hike, bike, fish from there. Gotta say though a proper 4 X 4 is not out of the question down the track, (pardon the pun). Maybe a ute with canopy, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. In the mean time I'm learning all I can and your channel and indeed other commenters are proving to be a great help. Many thanks to all.

[@farstrider79]

Something id love to do but I've already got too many hobbies! I'm afraid I'd get halfway through restoring it and it'd sit unfinished. Ever since my wife and I bought a house and have a kid, there is NEVER an end of projects😂! You forgot the most important factor.......how understanding is your wife..... Cheers, back to working in the yard.

[@adamgrimsley2900]

Wow funky hair. Like it. Confident.

[@arjanwilhelm639]

Yes, made it to the end... Just kidding! Love the vid and everything was well spoken. Brutally honest but oh so true. Bin there, done that and certainly not finished...

[@andrewc3629]

Great vid, and very good advice there. Does seem a shame to see these cars being phased out, the coming generation of vehicles in general feel a bit soulless to me. Best enjoy them while they're still here

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Its a shame that these kinds of 4wds are basically gone to a degree. I know some companies still make work trucks and there are some good modern counterparts. Its the soul of them like you said thats not quite the same. Thanks for watching

[@chrismcca]

Where did you get such large U bolts? I am struggling to find in UK for dana 35 that are longer. They don't need to massive just enough to accommodate my add a leaf which seems to have taken me right to the edge of my current ones which is a worry!

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I bought them off a generic supplier in Sweden. They sell all kinds of parts and you can order u bolts of any dimension. I think mine are 3.25" wide and 9" long in m14. If you buy ones specifically marketed for jeep they will be double the price.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/4-x-Rear-Leaf-Spring-U-Bolt-for-Jeep-Cherokee-XJ-1990-2001-SMB-XJ-004A-DANA-35-/323491080417?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l6249&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

These aren't bad for the money

[@chrismcca]

@@WorkshoptoWildernessThanks for the reply. I was eyeing those up too, will measure and see if deep enough esp if I add a shim like you were talking about. Failing that I'll have to try find a manufacturer like you mention you have in Sweden.

[@nicholasgilson6745]

Please tell me what flares those are I want some so bad like really bad I can't find any thick metal flares I might just go notch customs ugh.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I fabricated them on my jeep. I have two videos on building them and how to do it. It wasn't too difficult but obviously they also function as sliders and weight about 26kg total

[@forreststrong797]

I don't think it really matters how old a vehicle is, if your off-roading it's going to require a lot of maintenance to stay nice. There's a lot of different factors to consider. Any modern vehicle is going to need similar modifications and work no matter how old or new it is. Unless you replace your vehicle every 2-5 years but that's really expensive I like to stick with the same vehicle. It's important to start out with a nice vehicle if your not looking for a big project right off the bat. I'm a mechanic and my experience with the new vehicles they are much simpler to work on if you have the knowledge and tools to plug into the vehicle but it's expensive when you have a serious problem it's also harder to repair on the trail for some things because of all the gadgets. I think it's extremely difficult to choose what's best for someone between a new vehicle or older model. It depends what you would rather do maintenance wise and repair wise because you will be doing something eventually. In my experience the new vehicle will always cost more money to completely go through and setup for offroad because the cost to get into it is so high. Putting cost aside when choosing a vehicle to use offroad that your going to keep for a while I think it's a really close comparison between a new vehicle and old vehicle it's just a different set of problems. I really think it equals out and it just depends what you want to do. I think it's best to build a vehicle and stick with it.

[@tylerp9620]

What kind of lockers are you after?

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I would like an Ox locker with cable. Air doesn't work so well here with the cold temps. Electric would work I gues too

[@officialWWM]

Why did you have to replace the drip rails?

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Corrosion between the seam. It was getting bad at the front.

[@officialWWM]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness you did a great job of it. Looks better than factory.

[@yunk9]

"The garage is a mess" omg it looks as tidy as F&^% to me lol.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Interms of filler and paint dust over everything. But yeah I keep it organised

[@yunk9]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness Yes Its very impressive to me. Loving the videos keep going.

[@Jeffs40K]

I just bought a Newer Jeep Cherokee 2WD .. well I own a 99 and bought a 2001 4WD to upgrade. LoL

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Nice, congratulations on the jeep!

[@Grumpy2Nice]

Yes it is a therapy, and I respect that, but it is hard to here “why don’t you buy a new one”,”it’s a shitty Jeep” like idc it makes me happy I just get annoyed hearing it

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I don't completely understand the comment but do you mean you get annoyed when people tell you to buy a new one

[@Grumpy2Nice]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness yeahh like pretty much what you said like putting money into and old Jeep when you can buy a new one, it’s get annoying to hear other people say. It’s my money I can put it into what I enjoy

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Yeah its the same for me really. Buying a new jeep takes away the whole reason I enjoy what I'm doing.

[@Grumpy2Nice]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness yeah man well keep up the great work brother hope you and your family are doing well

[@smcfall2]

heres another problem no one ever thinks about..you get extremely close to the end of the project (is there really such a thing)....you've poured most of your money into it...then one day you wake up and find you have cancer (or some other tragedy )...now you have to have surgery, chemo, radiology, ect....and you have now lost your lively hood as well...and now you think if only i could get that $ 50K back out of it to survive the coming onslaught....unless your'e one of the filthy rich you cannot afford it...."ITS COMING"....no more...

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I guess many don't really consider thier health. For us here health care is covered by your taxes much like everything, fortunately its also very good, but taxes are high. Regardless your health is basically everything

[@smcfall2]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness its not just health...it could be anything...a change in the basic economy..for instance you finish getting your degree only to find the job no longer exist or something new has made it a less desirable job...for instance accounting was a once great field till computers came along...now the number of accountants needed has been cut in less than half...like the auto industry...many of those people still havent found replacement jobs...or the area you get you degree in is rapidly changing and theres no way to keep up with those changes - computer field...basically my point is - you usually cant get the money you spend on anything back...and once its gone its gone..and you might just wake up needing that money for survival for any number of reasons...unless you are a member of that 1% - no you can not afford anything...but a life with nothing is very boring..i chose to live..and live i did...but now i have to pay for that life..life is matter of choices..unfortunately for most of us our choices are limited..crap...now im ranting like you do - ROFL....best wishes..

[@samahmed3373]

You look so tried mate take some rest

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Thats because I am. Its been a busy week and now I'm chilling 😌 Thanks for watching