Hi everyone

I bought my 99 cherokee sport last year as a work beater.
It had a set of new tires and was a theft recovery in the as as lot at a local used dealer.
I figured 800 bucks for the tires and the jeep is free.
Anyway, long story short, i took ot out in the bush. Little did i know i just might get stuck. Well i did. But before i got stuck i had a blast. So now i would like to beef up my jeep. Problem is theres too much info out there. So i started simply by asdong a trailer hitch. Easy right? Well no so this time. Turns out that if you leave exposed threads out in the elements for 13 yrs they rust. My jeep has the bar with the weld nuts in the frame on the passenger side. So having said all that ive decided to seek some help and tips from those who may read this. So it begins.
Everything is stock and is pretty much ready to be replaced. I could just change out parts on spec but thats no fun. So i ask you all, Where do i start? Keeping on mind i dont want to spend a million dollars here, im just lookin to be able to access remote lakes in the sault st marie area.
Either way id like to hear the most and least expensove options.
Thanks in advance
See you on the trails

 

Where does 1 start: If the unibody isn't rusted though then go for a budget lift (like spacers on the top of the coils of 3") and then u will need to lengthin ur shocks (box steel cut to 3" & run longer screws though the holes to where they were originally mounted) when removing the old screws be care ful not to strip the head or u will have to drill it out (been there done that) place spacer (we used home made boxed steel) placed between the springs at the back and the axle. You will have to get new U bolts (try ur local steel dealer) he will have them on hand or can make them to ur size w/bolts and allot cheaper than any 4by4 store. Not sure if the 99 xj has coils in the front and rear or just in the front.. if its coils both ends then u can do spacers on both ends.. Just don't go to high as with coils u will find the JEEP will sway and handle allot different. OR got to ur local 4by4 store and see what they have on a lift kit You might need 4" to make clearance with 33" .You have Just Jeeps (sponsor here), National4wd, and probably others in ur area.
Here's a website for tires against clearance:Tire Fender Clearances - What Hits, What Fits

 

I'm not much of a XJ guy but like Mr White said add a budget boost and see what fits, 31s or 33s and have some fun. The most fun I ever had with a Jeep is when I never had two dimes to rub together but build a offroad beast from throw aways and u pick yards.

If you don't drive it on the road too much have the rear end welded up....cheap locker....I know I know maybe a little bad advise but my CJ was welded and I drove it as a daily driver for 3 years and never had a issue....but be prepared.

 

Give us a call on our toll free number, it'll be a pleasure to offer you a variety of budget minded kits available for your XJ!

Thx
Danny