Folks:


We are receiving my mother in law's 1997 Cherokee Sport with only 29K original miles since we had to pull her card and put her in assisted living. Been sitting outside all its life and looks like hell but the body is straight, no rust but DIRTY. Interior is also trashed and will need attention. Those are minor issues and easy to fix


Hasn't started in a year but put in a new battery and fired right up and runs strong considering is hasn't been driven and what little gas it has is probably stale. Also, no slop in the steering or suspension with so low of mileage. My dilemma is this we need to get this car back from Houston to Dallas (250 miles). Serpentine belt is solid, brakes are firm and all hoses show minimal wear. My thought is replace the oil, flush the radiator, and put on a new set of tires as the original tires appear to have dry rot and I don't want to risk a blow out on the freeway.


I had a 98 Grand Cherokee and was one of the best cars I ever owned so I am familiar with the motor/trans.


Anything else I should look for or consider before hitting the road?

 

I would definitely flush the coolant and install a new thermostat along with an oil change.

 

possibly rent a dolly and haul it back?

 

Good idea on the thermostat will add it to the list. Our daily cars are not rated for that type of a load so the car hauler is out. Plus, if the car can't make a 250 mile trip might as well sell it locally and be done with it.


Appreciate the suggestions. This forum looks like a great source of knowledge for repairs and restoration.

 

Just get someone in a chase car loaded with tools and spare parts.

Edit: Do not wash down the engine bay before leaving, and examine all the wiring and connectors in the engine bay. Make sure the battery connectors aren't corroded. If the life of the battery is unkown, replace it. Batteries are only good for around 4-5 years. 5 on the outside.