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Old 08-24-2015 | 01:34 PM
  #241  
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Year: 1998
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Engine: Golen 4.6L
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I was coming out of the mountains recently and smoke started coming from my hood so I pulled over quickly in a convenient pull-out. Turns out my power steering pulley shaft decided to no longer be attached to the pump. Thankfully I was with a buddy who took me to NAPA to get a replacement pump and pulley and we returned to do the roadside repair. Back up and running with no additional harm.
Old 08-24-2015 | 01:40 PM
  #242  
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Originally Posted by nando67
I agree with everyone as this is a superb build. I, too, would love to change my stock gears from 3.55 and you've given me some good options.
I'm glad you've found this thread helpful for your build!
Old 08-24-2015 | 11:12 PM
  #243  
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Back in April, I decided to replace my sound system because I ended up having one and a half working speakers. I wasn't trying to have the loudest system, just something better than what I had, plus I had a budget! One thing for sure is I wanted a subwoofer to help with the lower frequencies, but it had to have a stealth enclosure so I could still carry my cargo and dogs - for that, I opted for an enclosure from subthump.com.

I ended up getting four Kicker DSC5 speakers, a Rockford Fosgate P2D4 8-inch subwoofer (I wanted a 10 inch MTX, but couldn't afford it), a JVC KSAX3502D five-channel amplifier, and an Alpine CDA-9885 stereo. All-in-all, it sounds pretty good!

(The carpet is really not that green!)



I mounted the amp underneath the right rear passenger seat.


Last edited by WillyXJ; 03-06-2016 at 04:04 PM.
Old 08-25-2015 | 12:42 AM
  #244  
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From: Colorado
Year: 1991 2-Door
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 liter
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Originally Posted by jonlabass
Thank you!

I did consider just going to 3.55 with the 31s, but the gear/axle shop said the difference would hardly be noticeable so I opted for the 3.73 at the time. I think the 3.73 is a perfect gear ratio for 31s and the 5spd.
Hey, great build! Love your attention to detail as you put your rig together.

I have to agree with what the shop said when they recommended gearing yours a little lower, but I would have gone a little lower (4.10s) if I was re-gearing. (but then again mine is not a DD) I was fortunate to get my sons axles out of his old XJ (auto). Got the 3.55s and the 8.25. It got my XJ were I can enjoy the trails, but it would be nice to be a little lower. I would like to go with 33's and re-gear some day.
Old 08-25-2015 | 07:11 PM
  #245  
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From: Arlington, Texas
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
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Originally Posted by jonlabass
Back in April, I decided to replace my sound system because I ended up having one and a half working speakers. I wasn't trying to have the loudest system, just something better than what I had, plus I had a budget! One thing for sure is I wanted a subwoofer to help with the lower frequencies, but it had to have a stealth enclosure so I could still carry my cargo and dogs - for that, I opted for an enclosure from subthump.com.

I ended up getting four Kicker DSC5 speakers, a Rockford Fosgate P2D4 8-inch subwoofer (I wanted a 10 inch MTX, but couldn't afford it), a JVC KSAX3502D five-channel amplifier, and an Alpine CDA-9885 stereo. All-in-all, it sounds pretty good!

(The carpet is really not that green!)



I mounted the amp underneath the right rear passenger seat.

I did this in mine about 3 years ago. I used a spare tire cover for my carpet, so its a match for the rest of the interior. I started with a 6.5 inch Kicker. I then went to an 8 Pioneer. I have the amp mounted under the front passenger seat. Here in Texas, it's normal in the summer for the inside of you car to get up to 150-160 degrees parked in the sun. The rear seat location resulted in overheating issues, so the front seat location lets it breathe easier and have more air moving around it.



My Kicker CompVT rear cubby sub install. See my thread here:

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f67/re...nstall-133158/
Old 08-25-2015 | 11:02 PM
  #246  
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Originally Posted by macgyver35
I did this in mine about 3 years ago. I used a spare tire cover for my carpet, so its a match for the rest of the interior. I started with a 6.5 inch Kicker. I then went to an 8 Pioneer. I have the amp mounted under the front passenger seat. Here in Texas, it's normal in the summer for the inside of you car to get up to 150-160 degrees parked in the sun. The rear seat location resulted in overheating issues, so the front seat location lets it breathe easier and have more air moving around it. My Kicker CompVT rear cubby sub install. See my thread here: https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f67/re...nstall-133158/
I originally looked at putting the amp under the front passenger seat, but it was only going to fit if I nailed the measurements given the size of this amp and I wasn't confident in my ability to be that accurate. I don't have the interior temperature concerns you do as the Jeep is garage-kept or parked in the shade at work (and generally upper 80s in the summer), but it's good to know your experience with the two locations - thanks for sharing!
Old 08-29-2015 | 09:45 PM
  #247  
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I've now got a trailer that's about 2,000lbs when loaded and I'm definitely noticing it. The 4.10 gear ratios is very helpful, but I wanted to get a bit more response from the engine. So, after some research and while I waited for my SYE kit to arrive (and time to install the SYE), I've opted for a cold air intake and performance muffler/exhaust. If I'm still not satisfied, I'll probably get a bored throttle body from strokedjeep.com.

I went with a K&N:



And a Flowmaster Series 60 muffler as I didn't want all of the noise. It's still louder than stock, but not bad. I'll work on getting a video of the sound, too.



The best part is I finally replaced the tailpipe hanger so now I no longer have a rattle!


Last edited by WillyXJ; 03-06-2016 at 04:02 PM.
Old 09-08-2015 | 12:28 PM
  #248  
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I got my SYE and Tom Woods CV shaft installed with 4* shims and it road tested fine. However, I think they sent me a mislabeled CV shaft as it's a bit short - blue should not be seen. I've contacted Rusty's about it and am awaiting a fix.

Despite my vibes being gone, I get a pretty good seat shimmy around 45-50mph. Turns out it's my tires. I swapped front and rears and now the shimmy is in the steering wheel. After speaking with a tire guy, turns out this is common with the BFG KM2 once it gets around half worn. Any suggestions on replacement tires? I'm planning to go up an inch to 32x11.50x15. I thought about Procomp Extreme M/T but they don't come in that size.
Attached Thumbnails Wilderness XJ Build-image-373124690.jpg  
Old 09-08-2015 | 04:10 PM
  #249  
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Originally Posted by jonlabass
I got my SYE and Tom Woods CV shaft installed with 4* shims and it road tested fine. However, I think they sent me a mislabeled CV shaft as it's a bit short - blue should not be seen. I've contacted Rusty's about it and am awaiting a fix.
I've received word that this CV shaft is correct and a part of an upgraded design. The travel is centered right where it should be.
Old 09-09-2015 | 06:11 AM
  #250  
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How long does that shaft measure out too? I'm getting ready to SYE my 5sp and picked up a V8 ZJ front shaft that's about 33". What kind of mileage are you averaging with 4.10s and 31s? Also - slick rig!
Old 09-09-2015 | 07:06 AM
  #251  
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Very nice build. I'll have to go through the thread again when I pick mine up.

I read that you work in IT and are a photographer on the side, so am I. Nice to see others out there!!

I am hoping to be making a trip to CO next year to visit a friend and see the views. I've always wanted to get out to see that part of the country.

Keep up the great work!!
Old 09-09-2015 | 07:52 AM
  #252  
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Originally Posted by Battle
How long does that shaft measure out too? I'm getting ready to SYE my 5sp and picked up a V8 ZJ front shaft that's about 33". What kind of mileage are you averaging with 4.10s and 31s? Also - slick rig!
I measured 34.5" yoke to yoke. Depending on your lift, the 33" may be just right...or it may be a tad short. I'm getting about 16mpg since the regear.
Attached Thumbnails Wilderness XJ Build-image-329352990.jpg  
Old 09-09-2015 | 07:54 AM
  #253  
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Originally Posted by MolonLabe
Very nice build. I'll have to go through the thread again when I pick mine up. I read that you work in IT and are a photographer on the side, so am I. Nice to see others out there!! I am hoping to be making a trip to CO next year to visit a friend and see the views. I've always wanted to get out to see that part of the country. Keep up the great work!!
Thanks! CO is definitely nice - especially the area around Ouray. I'd move there if I could...
Old 09-09-2015 | 08:28 AM
  #254  
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Originally Posted by jonlabass
Thanks! CO is definitely nice - especially the area around Ouray. I'd move there if I could...
Yeah I wouldn't mind moving out that direction but unfortunately it'll never happen.

As long as I can take a vacation there so I can enjoy the area that'll hold me over.
Old 09-09-2015 | 01:28 PM
  #255  
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From: Tennessee
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L
Default Tire recommendation

I've used the BFG KM2, BFG AT, and a few others in the past. On my last tire purchase I went with the GOODYEAR Duratrac ATs. They've been quiet on the street, great in the rain, and extremely good on the limited amount of off-road I've driven.
IMO, they're a solid tire, and worthy of consideration for any 4x4 vehicle.
I also love how aggressive they look for an AT.
I'm not sure about the 32x11.5 size availability.


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