3 things: 1) yours is what my XJ always wanted to grow up to be when I owned it. 2) we NEED a pair of those on the FJ now. 3) Loving this series (despite no longer owning my old missed '98 XJ--I'll have another someday hopefully) :D
Best steering tricks for XJ... New or rebuilt 98-99 Durango steering box bolts right in... Huge upgrade! Also, MUST have a good steering stabilizer or hydraulic assist to stop wander.
Thank you for bringing the XJ back boy did I miss her. I can't wait to start working on my XJ she is in the shop needs a new transfer case. But soon Brad look for my RUclips channel on my XJ, F250 and my Bronco. You're a big inspiration on building off road rigs
I’d change that steering setup to a Currie correct link. I had one on my Tj like yours and had nothing but problems with tie rod roll. I changed to the correct link and now it drives great
Brad xj is looking good. you should consider a front aussie locker for a future mod. cheap easy install and invisible on the road, but in 4wd locks up the front diff. I just put one in my tj and I am sold. best 260 i've ever spent.
If the stain is calcium, from water evaporating on the bumper, I would use CLP cleaner. I've had good results since It dissolves calcium and other deposits right off. You simply put it on, let it sit for a while wet, then brush off. Generic cleaning ammonia also works, and it's cheap at the hardware store.
I'm amazed at the amount of lighting options available currently. Great video. I wish people would always install them correctly with relays and junction blocks. Maybe put a self adhesive rubber strip between the rear of the lights and the painted grille.
Keep those XJ videos coming Brad, i have an XJ same color as yours. Next time you go out with your XJ post it on instagram so i can roll with you. I met you before on the bradshaw trail.
Check the axle side mount on the track bar. The hole tends to get wallowed out and it can move. You won't see this without removing the bolt, and even if it's tight, it won't fix the issue. If you slide a washer over the bolt and weld the washer to the mount, it will fix this issue. Done this on many XJ's and it works very well.
We thought you totally forgot about that poor XJ! Glad to see you doing some more work on it. My son and I bought a 95 XJ and were also doing a lot of father/son work on it last summer and then he headed back to engineering school in the fall. I've been trying to not do too much without him, but some stuff just needs to be done! Over the Christmas break he was home long enough for us to do the ZJ rear disc brake conversion (I highly recommend that one) and that was fun to get to wrench on it with him again. So I totally understand your not wanting to do much to your XJ without your boys being around. But sometimes you just need to do some things yourself. I recently finished the mid frame stiffeners on ours and then built my own and installed the rock sliders, They came out great! Still a bit to do to them, but I'll wait for my son to come home to finish the rub rails. Keep up the cool videos Brad! Love watching your builds and trail adventures!
Wow! That XJ is super clean. It’s not like the Northeast Cherokees like mine. I have to absolutely fight with every nut and bolt during my 2000 xj upgrades. Nice video, Im looking forward to seeing how the future mods turn out.
I should finish watching the video before I make comments... lastly I know they are expensive but look into getting Mastercraft Safety Baja RS seats, I worked there for years, they are amazing they hold up very well, they are extremely comfortable, they have an 87% impact reduction, we had the military contract to outfit all the MRAP's for the U.S. military with our seats, they are also the only aftermarket seat to be tested to the FMVSS (federal motor vehicle safety standard). I have 2 Bajas and a bench in my TJ, if you ever wanna try them out let me know we live in the same part of town.
Hi, I’ve recently used rust oleum/Black-heat resistance for my pizza grill which I think will help you to not just cover your bumper stain but will protected from getting rust too/you can get it at Home Depot. I’m getting ready to do my bumper on my 2006 Tacoma.
If you want a really clean look, some cherokees came with a factory fog light switch. The harness for it is already in the dash, just not the switch panel. They can be had on eBay and salvage yards/part outs for a reasonable amount and can be wired in pretty easily. I have my overhead lights wired into it via a relay and it came out really clean. Message me if you need some more info! Grand Cherokee seat/steering wheel swaps are an option too if you’re looking into that!
Dude all the mods you’re planning are all the same things I’ve written down to do on my XJ can’t wait to see and follow your lead !!! Get er done ! The steering prob might be related to the front arms if everything else checks out so going to adjustable ones might help plus upgrading to a Dodge Durango HD steering box couldn’t hurt either.
Did you figure out the steering? My XJ is exactly the same. Your driving then all the sudden you have to turn the wheel the other way but everything seems tight!
I've got an SPOD in my Wrangler and love it, but I want to do something a little more budget friendly with the XJ. I think you are right though, I may be moving the light more forward.
so I am all caught up now ...good build I wanna do something a lil milder to my 94 2 in lift 31s home made bumpers just something to run the trails of E Wash and No Id
that what i was thinking just pop it up a bit so I dont get caught up ...yall should see the under side of my 94 ...so clean you could eat of it ,no rust even my exhaust pipe isnt too bad
I think I know what happened with your steering- you need a steering gear box brace- your steering box is flexing the frame enogh to be noticeable. It happens in my Jeep. Jcr and Ares fab have stiffeners but I've seen brace that run all the way to the other frame rail
I know when we installed the bumper, we added a brace plate, but I'll absolutely have it give the steering gear box brace a closure look.... thank you!
Did you put a new steering box on it? Kevins Offroad has a nice brace but I don't think that's your problem. I broke a socket getting my tracbar bolts tight!
There is a product called the cure sold by ruff stuff specialties that takes most of the play out where the drag link connects to the tie rod. It’s basically a plastic spacer I used it to eliminate my steering roll.
Light output is shocking compared to the overall size. Atleast I was shocked. Also shocked to see no cutoff line from a street legal light. Have you aimed these lights for on road driving? How have the performed aimed for street legal driving.
You should be able make sure the wires under the bumper are pushing enough volts and amps to the specs of the the lights you choose..... that the way i would take it before doing any hook up and burn wires or worse
Depends on our lighting needs. If you will be doing some high speed trail driving and need to see further down the trail, roof lights can be very helpful.
Off topic, but can you tell me if you are running 32x11.5 STT's with an 8inch or 10inch rim? I have a similar XJ and I'm looking at the STT's for my next tire.
3 things: 1) yours is what my XJ always wanted to grow up to be when I owned it. 2) we NEED a pair of those on the FJ now. 3) Loving this series (despite no longer owning my old missed '98 XJ--I'll have another someday hopefully) :D
Best steering tricks for XJ... New or rebuilt 98-99 Durango steering box bolts right in... Huge upgrade! Also, MUST have a good steering stabilizer or hydraulic assist to stop wander.
how does it improve anything? I really dont know about it but I've heard this before.
YES more XJ videos!
Thank you for bringing the XJ back boy did I miss her. I can't wait to start working on my XJ she is in the shop needs a new transfer case. But soon Brad look for my RUclips channel on my XJ, F250 and my Bronco. You're a big inspiration on building off road rigs
Awesome, that's the only reason I followed a year ago, same color and year as mine, similar upgrades too
I’d change that steering setup to a Currie correct link. I had one on my Tj like yours and had nothing but problems with tie rod roll. I changed to the correct link and now it drives great
Brad xj is looking good. you should consider a front aussie locker for a future mod. cheap easy install and invisible on the road, but in 4wd locks up the front diff. I just put one in my tj and I am sold. best 260 i've ever spent.
I've heard good things about the aussie lockers. Great to hear you are enjoying it!
Christix channel has a how to video in replacing leather on a steering wheel! It’s great to see the xj again!
Thanks! I've watched a few videos already... shouldn't be too tough.
I really enjoy your off road lighting videos. Best on RUclips by far. Those lights look great. Thanks for sharing!!
I really try to get down to the details because it's stuff I know I want to know. Glad you enjoyed it, thank you!
Finally the XJ is back. The lights are very good. What you do for living Brad? I have a WJ 4.7
If the stain is calcium, from water evaporating on the bumper, I would use CLP cleaner. I've had good results since It dissolves calcium and other deposits right off. You simply put it on, let it sit for a while wet, then brush off. Generic cleaning ammonia also works, and it's cheap at the hardware store.
I'll have to give some CLP a try, thanks for the suggestion!
Glad to see the XJ in the garage. I miss mine.
I'm amazed at the amount of lighting options available currently. Great video. I wish people would always install them correctly with relays and junction blocks. Maybe put a self adhesive rubber strip between the rear of the lights and the painted grille.
Keep those XJ videos coming Brad, i have an XJ same color as yours. Next time you go out with your XJ post it on instagram so i can roll with you. I met you before on the bradshaw trail.
More XJ work coming soon! The Bradshaw trail was a great trip and I hope to be taking the XJ out a lot soon, thanks!
Check the axle side mount on the track bar. The hole tends to get wallowed out and it can move. You won't see this without removing the bolt, and even if it's tight, it won't fix the issue. If you slide a washer over the bolt and weld the washer to the mount, it will fix this issue. Done this on many XJ's and it works very well.
Thanks for the suggestion! After playing around with the track bar and drag link we found the problem... more to follow on the XJ!
Cool! It's about time the XJ got some lovin'! 😀😍
We thought you totally forgot about that poor XJ! Glad to see you doing some more work on it.
My son and I bought a 95 XJ and were also doing a lot of father/son work on it last summer and then he headed back to engineering school in the fall. I've been trying to not do too much without him, but some stuff just needs to be done! Over the Christmas break he was home long enough for us to do the ZJ rear disc brake conversion (I highly recommend that one) and that was fun to get to wrench on it with him again. So I totally understand your not wanting to do much to your XJ without your boys being around. But sometimes you just need to do some things yourself.
I recently finished the mid frame stiffeners on ours and then built my own and installed the rock sliders, They came out great! Still a bit to do to them, but I'll wait for my son to come home to finish the rub rails.
Keep up the cool videos Brad! Love watching your builds and trail adventures!
Father and son projects are the best. One of the boys will be home for summer break and is already asking what we are going to be doing! More to come!
Good to see the XJ back, those lights looks nice !!!
Wow! That XJ is super clean. It’s not like the Northeast Cherokees like mine. I have to absolutely fight with every nut and bolt during my 2000 xj upgrades. Nice video, Im looking forward to seeing how the future mods turn out.
I should finish watching the video before I make comments... lastly I know they are expensive but look into getting Mastercraft Safety Baja RS seats, I worked there for years, they are amazing they hold up very well, they are extremely comfortable, they have an 87% impact reduction, we had the military contract to outfit all the MRAP's for the U.S. military with our seats, they are also the only aftermarket seat to be tested to the FMVSS (federal motor vehicle safety standard). I have 2 Bajas and a bench in my TJ, if you ever wanna try them out let me know we live in the same part of town.
Hi, I’ve recently used rust oleum/Black-heat resistance for my pizza grill which I think will help you to not just cover your bumper stain but will protected from getting rust too/you can get it at Home Depot.
I’m getting ready to do my bumper on my 2006 Tacoma.
Glad to see it back in the garage
Me too, long overdue!
TrailRecon I have an 87 XJ that I've been messin with. I wish mine was a little newer but hey you take wgat comes a long
I need a video on building the light switch panel. I’m not sure where and how to do it on my XJ
I'll see what I can come up with and share that with you guys.
Me too!
D D, Did you see the ashtray conversion switch panel they did on the XJ on a previous video? That was a good option !
prime 4x4 has some cool switch panels for what you wanting
Thanks, I'll have to check them out.
Yes please more Cherokee xj videos...cant wait for your seat upgrade...you guys have a bad ass xj...
More to come! We love the XJ, but she still needs some work.
Good Lord its about time Brad lol
LOL! I know, I know!
If you want a really clean look, some cherokees came with a factory fog light switch. The harness for it is already in the dash, just not the switch panel. They can be had on eBay and salvage yards/part outs for a reasonable amount and can be wired in pretty easily. I have my overhead lights wired into it via a relay and it came out really clean. Message me if you need some more info! Grand Cherokee seat/steering wheel swaps are an option too if you’re looking into that!
In the process of customizing my xj, I love your xj series, and now more!
Finally, XJ is back!
Oh ya and more to come!
also, WTB mufflers in Poway is a great exhaust shop I had them do work on my TJ.
Make sure your track bar bracket bolts are tight. Threw me through a loop for awhile with our XJ. Tack welding it in place will help hold it, too.
Satcon yup that's what I was thinking as well. It could also be rounded out on the axle bracket causing unwanted movement.
Thanks! I'll be spending and evening after work this week troubleshooting.
Dude all the mods you’re planning are all the same things I’ve written down to do on my XJ can’t wait to see and follow your lead !!! Get er done ! The steering prob might be related to the front arms if everything else checks out so going to adjustable ones might help plus upgrading to a Dodge Durango HD steering box couldn’t hurt either.
Right on, I hope I can offer you some help with what we've got planned! Thanks!
I can't wait for your next videos on this Xj. Thank you men
Love these xj vids man! Good job
Makes me want a project to tinker with.
You should do some custom PRP seats in the front would look and feel awesome!
That would be nice, but out of my budget currently.
TrailRecon that is my problem too lol
Check the rear axle U-bolts MC. Mine were loose shortly after installing new springs.
KC Hilites Rock !! Love the video!
Did you figure out the steering? My XJ is exactly the same. Your driving then all the sudden you have to turn the wheel the other way but everything seems tight!
Great upgrade.
Magic Eraser will work
Awesome, I'll have to give that a try. Thank you!
TrailRecon I have the same Jeep as yours with almost 330,000 miles and is still like new.These 4.0 last forever.
Get an Spod for the switches! And move the lights forward to the other hole in my opinion
I've got an SPOD in my Wrangler and love it, but I want to do something a little more budget friendly with the XJ. I think you are right though, I may be moving the light more forward.
TrailRecon yeah I know you do, I watch all your videos, keep it up buddy!
Forget the S Pod, I want to see you build your own waterproof switch box... Love the XJ... it's an open canvas.
TrailRecon , Apollointech from Amazon has a budget friendly switching system. see ruclips.net/video/nTdJ_CHtI8E/видео.html
so I am all caught up now ...good build I wanna do something a lil milder to my 94 2 in lift 31s home made bumpers just something to run the trails of E Wash and No Id
I think a 2" lift and 31's will serve you well, you don't need anything crazy to get out and have some nice adventures.
that what i was thinking just pop it up a bit so I dont get caught up
...yall should see the under side of my 94 ...so clean you could eat of it ,no rust even my exhaust pipe isnt too bad
How about a follow up with the lights on outside at night? Thinking about these for my 2500 Ram with horrible factory headlights.
Do you still have this XJ? I’m currently building mine and would love to see more videos of it on the trail!
Lookin good Brad.
Thank you, but we are going to make here look and perform much better soon!
check the axle side trac bar hole, could be wollowed out
I'll be checking all the whole for sure! Thanks!
I can't find those lights anywhere
Any video on wiring it in?! That's what I am looking for.
Great lights... and video..
Thank you, really appreciate it!
another awesome video
I think I know what happened with your steering- you need a steering gear box brace- your steering box is flexing the frame enogh to be noticeable. It happens in my Jeep. Jcr and Ares fab have stiffeners but I've seen brace that run all the way to the other frame rail
I know when we installed the bumper, we added a brace plate, but I'll absolutely have it give the steering gear box brace a closure look.... thank you!
Ironman4x4fab has some nice steering braces as well.
Did you put a new steering box on it? Kevins Offroad has a nice brace but I don't think that's your problem. I broke a socket getting my tracbar bolts tight!
The problem you have with steering is Tie Rod roll, very common with Rusty's steering. Best steering is some thing like bee Lee's or Cav Fab.
Thanks! after playing around with it yesterday, I'm certain the tie rod and drag link are the culprits. I'll check out Cav Fab.
TrailRecon Currie steering is very nice if your not into heims.
There is a product called the cure sold by ruff stuff specialties that takes most of the play out where the drag link connects to the tie rod. It’s basically a plastic spacer I used it to eliminate my steering roll.
When are the lockers coming?
I have a similar stain on my bumper but mine was from a big jar of anti seize, if you find out how to get it out let me know!
Light output is shocking compared to the overall size. Atleast I was shocked.
Also shocked to see no cutoff line from a street legal light. Have you aimed these lights for on road driving? How have the performed aimed for street legal driving.
Another great video. Did you use the G34's in your new poison Spyder Bumper on your JK? I'm looking at the BRUISER bumper for my new JL
Thank you! Yes, I have the same exact lights on my bumper and love them on and off-road. I can't wait to see Poison Spyders JL setup.
Go Hawks!
Heck ya... Go Hawks!
What kind of front bumper is that?
I have same bumper on my XJ. I had factory fog lights before, do you know if I can use factory switch for the KC's?
You should be able make sure the wires under the bumper are pushing enough volts and amps to the specs of the the lights you choose..... that the way i would take it before doing any hook up and burn wires or worse
I need to find someone that stocks these lights in South Africa
Is it a good idea to mount these KC's on the roof?
Depends on our lighting needs. If you will be doing some high speed trail driving and need to see further down the trail, roof lights can be very helpful.
@@TrailRecon Thanks bro 👍
What kind of bumper is that
It's from Smittybilt. You can find all the parts we've used on this project here in our amazon shop: www.amazon.com/shop/trailrecon
Off topic, but can you tell me if you are running 32x11.5 STT's with an 8inch or 10inch rim?
I have a similar XJ and I'm looking at the STT's for my next tire.
They are 32x11.5 and I'm almost positive they are 8". There is a video in the XJ build playlist that talks about them.
lol I liked the idea til I looked and saw the 360 dollar price tag... Not for me