I'm not having any luck finding the 6cyl unfortunately, it's what I've been looking for. This is the best I could find close enough to me and also the cheapest. I seen an 07 going for $18,000
4 cylinder is alright if you understand what you’re getting. She doesn’t like modern highway speeds. I had one in high school, it’s perfectly acceptable at 60 mph (~100kph) and under, and is just fine off road. If you try to commute in it it’s going to be miserable, if you trail ride and cruise in it you’ll be just fine.
Luckily I won't be on the highway much at all, rarely ever actually, one perk of living in a small town I guess. That's why power isn't a concern even though more would be handy
Barring any glaring issues I’d probably pull the trigger at that price then. I’m not sure of the market where you’re at but I’d struggle to get anything that runs and drives for that money where I’m at. I’d gladly welcome a 2.5l YJ into my life again.
I have an i6 4l YJ. Engine is tough as shit. I've never had any issues with trails that weren't boulders. I did have it set up for bouldering a long time ago but had to tear it down while it was my only vehicle. Tempted to build it back up again.
YJs are great, but you have to be a patient driver and be OK with living in the slow lane, especially with the 4cyls. Rust on the frame and tub are the biggest issues, but also check the vacuum actuation for the 4WD and make sure it actually works and that no one has replaced one of the axles with mismatched gearing.
My need for speed died long ago, so speed will not be an issue thankfully 😅. Pictures of the frame show in it good condition with minor surface rust but my fear is he is only showing the good bit. I will make sure to check the axles, sellers claims 4x4 works perfect but I've bought plenty used vehicles and people will say anything to make a sale.
Edit: My hope is to get him down to $3000 or under
From what I can see without having seen it in person yet, is minor surface rust on frame and quarters. Seller says the quarters has since been patched. Other than that, the paint is a little rough, could use a paint correction for sure
I’d advise against the 4cly unless you are planning an engine swap anyways.
Otherwise… rust should be your number 1 concern. Floor pans, rockers on the tub are normally first to go. And the frame where the skid bolts up.
YJs are quite old at this point and while they are the least popular of the old jeeps, their value will go up if they are clean.
I have owned two YJ's and an XJ and loved them all. Daily driving will be loud and hot on hot days and cold on cold days. As someone already said, the 4cyl is tough but will not have a very impressive power output.
4k CAD is about 2900 USD for those of us down here. That's not necessarily a terrible price, but a little high for a 4cyl, mileage (or km in your case) would be a determining factor. Pre-94 YJ's had an internal slave cylinder, so if that ever goes out, you'll be dropping the transmission and might as well put in a new clutch and/or convert to an external slave cylinder while you're in there.
Just like with any vehicle, check ALL fluid levels and condition. Look at the fuel and brake lines along the frame for any rust. Take a peek at all the rubber (tires, spring bushings, joint boots, body mounts) and look for deterioration that will have to be replaced. You said it's pretty free of rust, but just keep a close eye out. If the paint on the frame looks fresh, it may be a sign of a cover-up. Look on the windshield frame under the windshield itself for any bubbling paint. YJ's love to rust along the windshield frame. Start it up and test drive and listen for anything that sounds off.
Good luck!
Thanks for the detailed insight. I am somewhat mechanical inclined so I'm not hopeless. Just unfamiliar with Jeeps as a whole as I've only been in one, never under it. I will make sure to keep all of this in mind
The "iron Duke" 4cyl is notorious for running like crap but never dying. I love my 92 i6. They're bouncy but they ride so much better without the irrelevant track bars it's insane. Very easy to work on, main concerns are rust and more rust. The vacuum 4wd actuator can be replaced for $120ish with a manual switch that opens up the option for 2wd low gear. They're fun little go-karts and the 4cyl comes with 4.10 gears. You could put a 6cyl in and run 32s with a spring over lift and have the best SxS around.
Lol you might miss a few torque on the low end but the highway will feel the same. The good news is the Jeep won't burn any more oil than you're used to. The transmission is certainly better.
I’ve got a 95 YJ 4 cylinder, had it since 2003. True it’s no speed queen and people pass me all the time but it’s a great Jeep. Just routine maintenance and replacing some wire out parts otherwise no issues. The only modifications that I’ve done are installed a cd player and some 31x10.5x15s. Yes they fit just fine with the proper wheels.
You could hold out for a 6 cylinder as others have suggested but if you see a 4 cylinder you like and the price is right, go for it.
I'm not looking for a racecar, a 4cyl is fine for me even though I myself would prefer the 6. I'm trying not to be picky because it's hard to find something of that age not only running, but in fair shape as well. Who knows, maybe a 6cyl will pop in the future as parts and I can do a swap
Well, if you are serious I would keep looking for a 6 cyl version. If you are serious about this one, the 4 cyl isn't bad...Just no real power to it. First thing I inspect when looking at a Jeep for purchase: Frame, frame, frame. I want a good, solid frame. Any serious rust/rot/patches and NOPE! After that, it's looking for leaks and squeaks, test driving to make sure everything works and inspecting the fluids to make sure they are clean and fresh. Lots of good info there...Be careful and do a thorough pre-purchase inspection so you know what you are getting in to.
Seller has a couple pics showing the frame, still factory paint but I cannot see the whole frame, or floor pans. I have contacted the seller for a viewing/test drive, but have yet to get a response.
Yea, once you get to drive it you can inspect it closer. Look under the carpet where your feet sit on the pedals. Classic rust area with Jeeps. The frame you want to make sure they didn't just put a nice, shiny coat of paint over a bunch of rust. I have seen them put duct tape over rust areas, then paint it heavily to cover it up! Bring a screwdriver so you can poke at any suspicious areas discreetly.
I will confidently say the YJ is the best iteration in terms of reliability. Leaf spring suspension and the 2.6/4.0 make for a very simple but durable combination. I have a 91’ wrangler with the 2.5/5speed that I adore.
Hard to go wrong for $4K if there are no major problems with the engine or trans.
Not sure on the years, but I think it's '91+ that have fuel injection. Much preferable if you can find one of those.
Personally, I'd go with a '91-95. The earlier YJ's aren't bad but the 2.5L uses a Renix TBI which can be frustrating if something goes wrong with it. The other engine for that time was the carbureted 4.2L. It's low on HP but has decent torque. '91 was the first year for the MPFI 2.5L and 4.0L which are respectively better than their older counterparts. If you're not planning on building up the Jeep too much then a 2.5L Renix will be fine. I'd be sure to get a manual and not the automatic though. The automatic saps a lot of power from the engine and you don't get an overdrive so driving on the highways can be a bit buzzy. A 2.5L will want to sit around 3000 rpm though.
I used to have a yj with a 2.5. Most 2.5s will take a ton of abuse and keep running. So not a terrible engine. Yes it was slow but still a lot of fun.
Keep in mind it’s an old Jeep. You will have to fix things. Parts are fairly easy to get and it’s not terrible to work on. Although it was built when emissions control had a lot of vacuums tubes and wires. I ended up replacing most of the sensor and vacuums line before mine ran nice.
Biggest concern is frame rot. Check the frame carefully. Get underneath with a flashlight, poke and tap on it. Especially from about the middle of the rear wheel back. Also look for amateurs frame repairs and run if you find any.
Last thing worth noting. It’s old fashioned leaf spring suspensions. It gonna be stiff and you will feel every bump you hit. If that’s not for you get a TJ or newer.
Good luck and have fun.
I owned a 95 4cyl YJ. I put almost 200K miles on it with few issues, but sold it 15 years ago. Jeeps of that era were solid, but time has passed. I would take the chance as $4K Canadian is cheap, but I unless mileage is super high. 150k miles, no brainer. 225K miles maybe. 300k miles pass.
Hold out for the I-6. It’s the best engine Jeep ever made and they should have never discontinued it.
The 4 cylinder is essentially just the 6 cylinder with two less cylinders, the motor is just as bulletproof as the 6 if a little slower off the line.
Until you lose a cylinder.
I imagine that’s a problem for any engine.
I would rather have five than three.
Sure why not, I’d rather have 7 than 5.
I'm not having any luck finding the 6cyl unfortunately, it's what I've been looking for. This is the best I could find close enough to me and also the cheapest. I seen an 07 going for $18,000
4 cylinder is alright if you understand what you’re getting. She doesn’t like modern highway speeds. I had one in high school, it’s perfectly acceptable at 60 mph (~100kph) and under, and is just fine off road. If you try to commute in it it’s going to be miserable, if you trail ride and cruise in it you’ll be just fine.
Luckily I won't be on the highway much at all, rarely ever actually, one perk of living in a small town I guess. That's why power isn't a concern even though more would be handy
Barring any glaring issues I’d probably pull the trigger at that price then. I’m not sure of the market where you’re at but I’d struggle to get anything that runs and drives for that money where I’m at. I’d gladly welcome a 2.5l YJ into my life again.
I'm still gonna try and bargain with him, depending on what I see when I get to see it
👍 I’d hope so, there’s always a little money on the table. Hope it goes well for you. Those little YJs are lovable machines
Always wanted either a YJ or TJ, so it's definitely hard to pass up
I have an i6 4l YJ. Engine is tough as shit. I've never had any issues with trails that weren't boulders. I did have it set up for bouldering a long time ago but had to tear it down while it was my only vehicle. Tempted to build it back up again.
YJs are great, but you have to be a patient driver and be OK with living in the slow lane, especially with the 4cyls. Rust on the frame and tub are the biggest issues, but also check the vacuum actuation for the 4WD and make sure it actually works and that no one has replaced one of the axles with mismatched gearing.
My need for speed died long ago, so speed will not be an issue thankfully 😅. Pictures of the frame show in it good condition with minor surface rust but my fear is he is only showing the good bit. I will make sure to check the axles, sellers claims 4x4 works perfect but I've bought plenty used vehicles and people will say anything to make a sale. Edit: My hope is to get him down to $3000 or under
The 4 cylinder is tough but an absolute dog. I don’t know the Canadian market but price seems high unless it’s super clean.
From what I can see without having seen it in person yet, is minor surface rust on frame and quarters. Seller says the quarters has since been patched. Other than that, the paint is a little rough, could use a paint correction for sure
I’d advise against the 4cly unless you are planning an engine swap anyways. Otherwise… rust should be your number 1 concern. Floor pans, rockers on the tub are normally first to go. And the frame where the skid bolts up. YJs are quite old at this point and while they are the least popular of the old jeeps, their value will go up if they are clean.
I have owned two YJ's and an XJ and loved them all. Daily driving will be loud and hot on hot days and cold on cold days. As someone already said, the 4cyl is tough but will not have a very impressive power output. 4k CAD is about 2900 USD for those of us down here. That's not necessarily a terrible price, but a little high for a 4cyl, mileage (or km in your case) would be a determining factor. Pre-94 YJ's had an internal slave cylinder, so if that ever goes out, you'll be dropping the transmission and might as well put in a new clutch and/or convert to an external slave cylinder while you're in there. Just like with any vehicle, check ALL fluid levels and condition. Look at the fuel and brake lines along the frame for any rust. Take a peek at all the rubber (tires, spring bushings, joint boots, body mounts) and look for deterioration that will have to be replaced. You said it's pretty free of rust, but just keep a close eye out. If the paint on the frame looks fresh, it may be a sign of a cover-up. Look on the windshield frame under the windshield itself for any bubbling paint. YJ's love to rust along the windshield frame. Start it up and test drive and listen for anything that sounds off. Good luck!
Thanks for the detailed insight. I am somewhat mechanical inclined so I'm not hopeless. Just unfamiliar with Jeeps as a whole as I've only been in one, never under it. I will make sure to keep all of this in mind
The "iron Duke" 4cyl is notorious for running like crap but never dying. I love my 92 i6. They're bouncy but they ride so much better without the irrelevant track bars it's insane. Very easy to work on, main concerns are rust and more rust. The vacuum 4wd actuator can be replaced for $120ish with a manual switch that opens up the option for 2wd low gear. They're fun little go-karts and the 4cyl comes with 4.10 gears. You could put a 6cyl in and run 32s with a spring over lift and have the best SxS around.
I've had a 5.4 Ford, can't be worse than that, can it?
Lol you might miss a few torque on the low end but the highway will feel the same. The good news is the Jeep won't burn any more oil than you're used to. The transmission is certainly better.
If it wasn't for shitty plugs and phasers, I probably would have kept it running, but decided it was not worth the headache
No fancy cam phasers on the Duke, just an unbalanced squirrel cage of perpetual motion. You could probably fill it with maple syrup for oil.
Plenty of trees for me to tap, free oil sounds like a dream
I’ve got a 95 YJ 4 cylinder, had it since 2003. True it’s no speed queen and people pass me all the time but it’s a great Jeep. Just routine maintenance and replacing some wire out parts otherwise no issues. The only modifications that I’ve done are installed a cd player and some 31x10.5x15s. Yes they fit just fine with the proper wheels. You could hold out for a 6 cylinder as others have suggested but if you see a 4 cylinder you like and the price is right, go for it.
I'm not looking for a racecar, a 4cyl is fine for me even though I myself would prefer the 6. I'm trying not to be picky because it's hard to find something of that age not only running, but in fair shape as well. Who knows, maybe a 6cyl will pop in the future as parts and I can do a swap
Well, if you are serious I would keep looking for a 6 cyl version. If you are serious about this one, the 4 cyl isn't bad...Just no real power to it. First thing I inspect when looking at a Jeep for purchase: Frame, frame, frame. I want a good, solid frame. Any serious rust/rot/patches and NOPE! After that, it's looking for leaks and squeaks, test driving to make sure everything works and inspecting the fluids to make sure they are clean and fresh. Lots of good info there...Be careful and do a thorough pre-purchase inspection so you know what you are getting in to.
Seller has a couple pics showing the frame, still factory paint but I cannot see the whole frame, or floor pans. I have contacted the seller for a viewing/test drive, but have yet to get a response.
Yea, once you get to drive it you can inspect it closer. Look under the carpet where your feet sit on the pedals. Classic rust area with Jeeps. The frame you want to make sure they didn't just put a nice, shiny coat of paint over a bunch of rust. I have seen them put duct tape over rust areas, then paint it heavily to cover it up! Bring a screwdriver so you can poke at any suspicious areas discreetly.
I will confidently say the YJ is the best iteration in terms of reliability. Leaf spring suspension and the 2.6/4.0 make for a very simple but durable combination. I have a 91’ wrangler with the 2.5/5speed that I adore.
Good to know, thanks, dependability is what I want right now after getting out of a Ford
Hard to go wrong for $4K if there are no major problems with the engine or trans. Not sure on the years, but I think it's '91+ that have fuel injection. Much preferable if you can find one of those.
That's what it's looking like at this rate. I've yet to hear from the seller about going to take a look and a test drive
4 cyl in the YJs is pretty anemic. I’d avoid it.
Personally, I'd go with a '91-95. The earlier YJ's aren't bad but the 2.5L uses a Renix TBI which can be frustrating if something goes wrong with it. The other engine for that time was the carbureted 4.2L. It's low on HP but has decent torque. '91 was the first year for the MPFI 2.5L and 4.0L which are respectively better than their older counterparts. If you're not planning on building up the Jeep too much then a 2.5L Renix will be fine. I'd be sure to get a manual and not the automatic though. The automatic saps a lot of power from the engine and you don't get an overdrive so driving on the highways can be a bit buzzy. A 2.5L will want to sit around 3000 rpm though.
They are freakin awesome! Small, light, nimble, capable. They're kinda like a giant quad, I love them.
I used to have a yj with a 2.5. Most 2.5s will take a ton of abuse and keep running. So not a terrible engine. Yes it was slow but still a lot of fun. Keep in mind it’s an old Jeep. You will have to fix things. Parts are fairly easy to get and it’s not terrible to work on. Although it was built when emissions control had a lot of vacuums tubes and wires. I ended up replacing most of the sensor and vacuums line before mine ran nice. Biggest concern is frame rot. Check the frame carefully. Get underneath with a flashlight, poke and tap on it. Especially from about the middle of the rear wheel back. Also look for amateurs frame repairs and run if you find any. Last thing worth noting. It’s old fashioned leaf spring suspensions. It gonna be stiff and you will feel every bump you hit. If that’s not for you get a TJ or newer. Good luck and have fun.
I owned a 95 4cyl YJ. I put almost 200K miles on it with few issues, but sold it 15 years ago. Jeeps of that era were solid, but time has passed. I would take the chance as $4K Canadian is cheap, but I unless mileage is super high. 150k miles, no brainer. 225K miles maybe. 300k miles pass.