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View Full Version : buying trail rig.. question


jamnjeep
12-05-2008, 11:40 AM
Hello All..
I am going to buy a 1992-1995 yj and have a couple of questions. I have owned several XJs and currently on a WJ, put want a YJ for a Non DD trail rig. My plan is to put a 8.8 in the rear, SOA lift, sye, some gears and lockers, 35'' tires, etc.. My budget in some where in 8-9k on jeep and build. So i am trying to get the jeep for under $4k

Most of the Jeeps I can find for sale that are in good shape (no rust, less than 120k, runs good, etc..) are all 2.5L with the AX-5 Tranny. All the 4.0 I have seen are super high mileage or beat to sh!t.

So how will the 2.5 do off road (I run alot at URE and Tellico in NC)Is it enough power? Sometimes I feel the 4.0l is to small. Want be doing much street riding so road preformance in not a concern. How is the 2.5 on realibity and durabitliy. Can you get 200+k miles on them like the 4.0l. (Several of the 2.5 Jeeps I have looked at have around 100k but have new engines which does not make much since to me)

Also the AX 5 how strong is it compared to the ax15 (had on in an XJ and really liked it) Any problems with it? what are the differences?

thats my two concerns with getting a 4 banger. I did a search and found very little some any help would be great. Also if you know of similar treads please post so I can read up on them as well.
thanks for the help.

Jason

modnoc13
12-05-2008, 12:45 PM
i would keep looking and get the 4.0

Mudwolf
12-05-2008, 05:20 PM
FWIW, I would NOT get a 2.5 unless you're planning on an engine swap. I'm running a 4.0 with 4.56 gears and 38" tires, and I can still use 5th gear on the highway. It's not a rock crawler, but is more than competent in the mud, and as an all around wheeler.