The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a pioneering SUV that delivers commendable
performance and off-road capability. More than 3 million Cherokee XJs
were manufactured during its production run. However, when the XJs
rolled off the production lines, they were built primarily for the
street. As a result, XJs need crucial modifications and high-performance
upgrades to make them better for off-road duty.In this revised edition,
author and veteran Cherokee expert Eric Zappe guides you through each
stage of an XJ build, so you can take the mild-mannered, bone-stock XJ
and upgrade it to a capable off-road performer. Zappe delves into
suspension bolt-on improvements, including lift kits to increase ground
clearance and suspension travel. He also covers high-performance shocks
and long-arm suspensions. Wheels and tires are your vital link to the
terrain, and he reveals all of the important considerations so you can
select the right combination. XJs need a heavy-duty steering system to
negotiate challenging off-road conditions, and Zappe explains several
ways to upgrade the steering. Driveline and axle upgrades are an
important part of the performance equation, so these improvements are
covered as well. But he doesn't stop there; he also explores upgrades
for the 2.5-, 2.8-, 4.0-liter engines so the Cherokee has more power for
off-road performance. In addition, he covers some basic tips for adding
skid plates and body strengthening.If you're ready to go off road with
your Cherokee but you're not planning to build a top-dollar off-road
machine, this is the book for you. With the techniques and latest
products described in this book, you will be able to upgrade your XJ to
much higher level of performance and it will be at home both off-road
and on.
