my xj project

[sichko023]

one pic is the day i got it. the other is the day after. should be getting a lift sooon.

[Darkman]

I have always been a big fan of the XJ platform.

First thing I would recommend as someone who has owned 5 of these is when you lift it REPLACE the rear leaf spring pack outright, don't use a block or an add-a-leaf. Those stock XJ springs are notoriously weak. I would also not recommend running a tire larger than a 33" on the stock D35 rear axle unless you like replacing axles from broken C-clips. I have seen whole differential gears explode out through the diff cover from someone running 35" tires on a D35.

[4x4xdodgeman]

nice looking jeep

[sichko023]

thx for the info. i wasnt planning on going bigger than 33's though. just had to put a new gas tank on it. gotta change fromt axle joints before i can use 4x4.

[Darkman]

Keep an eye on the Vacume Actuated Automatic Locking Hubs. On the front axle tube on the passenger side there is a little assembly that controls your 4wd engage. These are notorious for crapping out. Your best bet is to try to find a way to eliminate it. I know there is a way to take it apart and permanently engage it by sliding the mechanism over and hose clamping it in place but that's really the "cobb" way to do it. They make kits to take care of the problem. The next big issue you're gonna run into once you get larger tires on it and start running it off road is over heating. Check the radiator fins for rust/damage that would restrict flow and be sure to look into a thermostat, water pump, a thorough coolant flush, and some good antifreeze.