So I recently got back into the world of Jeeps. I’ve owned XJs and ZJs but it’s been a good 8 or so years. I’ve got my hands on a Cherokee that’s basically a combination of a 94 Cherokee and a 98 Cherokee that my dad and grandad use to own. I’m not sure which one owned which or which part of each Jeep but it’s more or less the drivetrain from one and the body from the other, I’ve got more investigating to do.

Its a 5 speed, inline 6 - my personal favorite. Other than that it’s a relatively stock starting point. Obviously there might be some interesting problems that arise from my grandads handiwork but I’m excited to bring this family heirloom of sorts back to life as it’s been sitting for a few years now with intermittent starts and fuel cyclings.

Anyways, I’ve got my brother swinging by tomorrow with a thermal imaging camera. We’re going to be imaging as much of the motor and cooling loop as we can. The gauge isn’t registering a thermal temp, after idling for a bit it was hot to the touch so I’m thinking it’s just the sensor but I’ve got access to a thermal imaging camera so I figured why not.

TL;DR: got new Jeep, have access to thermal imaging camera, planning on checking out the motor and cooling loop with it. What else should I check with it if anything? Also any general tips on thermal imaging is appreciated. My brother knows how to work the camera and uses it frequently but neither of us have ever thermal imaged a motor.

 

I happened to watch a youtube video yesterday and while he didn't thermal image he did use a infrared thermometer to check the temp differences between each cylinder.

but, I mean.. you have two new toys.. we all know you will aim that camera at everything lol take it for a spin and check axles, wheels, tranny, diffs, anything you can aim it at

and please, report back about what you find

 

Oh I’ll definitely report back when we get it done, I’m planning on taking pictures and some video at different stages. We are planning for tonight but I’m at their whim scheduling so still waiting on the final confirmation.

I’m planning on scanning the whole Jeep by the time I’m done. Let’s be honest, why wouldn’t I!? But this sessions going to be focused on primarily the engine and cooling system cause the coolant temp sensor gauge is stuck so I’m not getting an accurate reading and my dad said it was starting to overheat when it was last parked. So with as long as it’s been sitting I’m primarily trying to verify I’m not overheating primarily and that the loop is keeping things cooled adequately, if not where is the loop struggling.

Definitely going to plan another session and get the transmission, transfer case, differentials, axles now that you mentioned it. I’ll probably take a quick peak at all the fuse boxes with it too to check for any parasitic drains.

 

Tagged so I can see the follow up.