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Activities and vehicle modifications appearing, described, recommended, or linked to on this web site may be potentially dangerous. We do not endorse any such activity for others or recommend it to any particular person. These are simply the experiences and opinions of the writers. If you choose to engage in these activities it is by your own free will and at your own risk. Any and all modifications will likely cause a vehicle to behave differently than stock - some modifications may significantly increase your risk for an accident or equipment failure when driving the vehicle or be dangerous in some driving situations. Use common sense when engaging in any activity or making any modifications. Do not take unwise risks, consult a certified professional if you are not sure of something, if you are uncomfortable with your mechanical ability, if you don't have the experience to do a project, if you have not received proper training and education for the job you are thinking about doing, or if you do not have the proper tools, equipment or safety devices to do the job you are considering.

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A header image that contains the text 'Jeep Expeditions ™: Exploration, Education, Conservation & Preservation.......... Live The Adventure'

The ZJ - 1st Generation Grand Cherokee


Picture taken on the "Baby Step", Klondike Bluffs Trail, Moab entering Arches National Park

Also in my current stable of Jeeps I have a 1998 ZJ Grand Cherokee. I have owned several ZJs in the past 10 years (93, two 95s, 96, 97, 98 and 98 5.9LTD). All but one of my ZJs were V-8s and I can tell you from years of ZJ experience you do not want a 6 cyl one. The gas mileage I found is only about 1 MPG better than the V-8 but the power for this larger vehicle is much less which is noticeable on long uphill climbs and if you decide to tow anything. I prefer the NV242 transfer case but most of the ones you will see for sale have the full time 4x4 option. The 98 5.9LTD is a nice rig but with its set up for speed from the factory it’s towing capacity is less than the smaller 5.2 V-8 and they tend to run hot in the desert summers we have in Phoenix. It is more at home at the mall or country club. My choice of years for a ZJ is purely personal preference and is 96 to 98 as just about all of the Limited models come with a moon roof. And while I mention Limited, for the ZJ that is the model I would buy. While it has a bigger book value, it typically can be bought at the Laredo price. They are also easier to sell than the Laredo model because they pretty much have all the toys.

You can lift one of these 2” for about $400 complete which would be considered a budget boost but that will give you some much needed ground clearance and the ability to move up to a 31” tire. This combination works well on most of the trails that Jeep Expeditions has been doing. Anything over a 3 or 3.5” lift may require some more expensive and extensive modifications and can affect its ability to be a true multi-purpose trail and daily driver rig.

My ZJ has crossed the Mojave Desert in stock form, that should tell you something.

For those who like a soft ride, all the comforts, the safety of a larger vehicle and the ability to haul all your equipment with ease, the ZJ might be the ride for you. One thing you have to make sure is that your ZJ has a factory towing system with 2” receiver, no aftermarket one.

If you want a larger, dual purpose rig, my recommendation is on the ZJ Grand Cherokee.




 

Jeep Expeditions is the PREMIERE Jeep Exclusive Expedition/Overland Adventure CLUB Anywhere!

Jeep Expeditions is a non-profit corporation registered in the State of Arizona.  

The state recognizes us as a fraternal organization,  we prefer to say we are a club.  Our members and volunteers are dedicated to the exploration of   this great land  for the educational value, historical value,  scenic beauty, the geology, paleontology, the camaraderie of people who share the same interests and to escape the confines of civilization if only for a few days. Our organization and members adhere to the standards of "Tread Lightly" and "Leave No Trace".

Jeep Expedition Members enjoy adventures that vary in length from one day, a weekend, long weekend, week long, two weeks and like our Arctic Expedition in 2011, a full month. Don't worry, most of our trips are one day and two day trips. We are Family Friendly and we have a number of members who bring their friendly "Jeep Dogs".

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