Hi,
I am looking at buying a used TJ and was wondering if there were any year models I should avoid or if there were any significant differences from '97 to '02?

Thanks,
Randy <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

I can't think of any changes between 97-02. I know that the 03-04 have a 4 speed auto and the hard/soft tops are slightly different. I only thing I can say to look for is to try to find one with a rear D44 diff. Most of the time you can find them in sports, saharas, and some the the X's. Also if you can find one with disc rear brakes, not sure what yar they started that for an option, I know 03's have it. Thats all I can think of. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" />

I think in 2003 the np231 transfer case was changed to ...

The early years ('97& '98, and maybe '99) are prone to exhaust manifold cracks. I'm pretty sure they got this taken care of for the '00 and later models.

I have a '00 Sport, 4.0 litre, 5 speed. It's not bad, but it guzzles gas compared to my Toyota.

pretty much any 4.0 from 91-00 "develop" exhuast manifold leaks.

I have a 2000 TJ and it is great.. There isn't a distributor cap, instead there is an ignition stick. very water resistant, deep water and it won't die. I even got mine to start while sitting in deep water in a swamp, it is great. 03 and 04's have a few interior upgrades like new seat backs which are cool. most of the problems that I have seen are with the '97 to '99's so I would suggest going with a 2000 or newer.

good luck with the buy!

Thanks for all the great advice. How many miles do the exhaust manifolds tend to last before they start to leak? Is there a permanent fix for the problem or will it keep re-occurring? If there is a permanent fix, how can I tell if the previous owner has already fixed it?

Thanks again,
Randy <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

I have a 91 yJ 4.0L high output with around 100k on it, the previous owner told me he bought it with 40k on it and never did anything to the engine but change oil, filters and plugs. As far as I can tell it's the original manifold. It's still going strong with no leaks or cracks. I had to replace everything behind the Cat exhaust wise though....
I think they tend to crack just above the flange. Look for signs of extra welding in that area. The pipes are steel and welded together instead of cast iron so if you see a weld that looks crappy or not where one should be, It's been fixed, maybe!

mine went out at about 120. i've seen peoples go out as early is 40 though....

I have a friend who complained of hard starts in his '99 or so TJ. Don't know if that was a fluke or an actual problem wtih them. Also heard the slip-yoke rear output on the NP231 is pretty weak, but maybe not...?