1981 Jeep Cherokee SJ Laredo WideTrack review from Germany
"It's a Full-size-Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
TF727 transmission needed to be rebuilt due to the truck sitting and not being used; and all the seals inside the tranny had dry-rotted. The clutch bands also needed to be replaced. An $800 fix.
Old, clogged catalytic converter.
Burnt plug wires.
Original, used-up ignition coil and ignition module. Upgraded with a new Ford TFI coil, new plug wires, and ignition module. A $120 fix. The truck now runs like a raped ape :)
General comments?
My wife and I have owned two previous FSJs, a '77 Cherokee Chief S N/T, and an '80 Wagoneer.
...And I'll hopefully never have to buy anything other than FSJs ever.
(aside from something to tow them with) ;-)
This '81 Cherokee is in fantastic condition for it's age, is a very capable 4x4 even stock, and still has enough style to take out on the town.
The interior is very comfy, with bucket seats, and good visibility all around.
Wing windows rule!!!
Driving, the truck has very little body-lean when turning, and doesn't handle like a typical full-size SUV.
Acceleration is very good for a 6,000lb vehicle, but the gas mileage isn't impressive with the V-8.
However, with a few more ignition upgrades, and a better carb, this truck is capable of 14mpg+
For more information on FSJs, check out http://www.ifsja.org!
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| 1982 - Cherokee Laredo Wide Track 5.9L V8, An SUV like none other before or since |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 360 AMC / 5.9L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 64000 miles |
| Previous car | Jeep Wagoneer |
| Date of Entry | 24th September, 2003 |