Differences in GW model years....

[J300Zack]

Hey guys my tj is starting to beat me up and the J300 is torn apart, probably going to be a few years before that goes back together. Anyway I'm looking for a daily driver and wish I had my '86 GW back. I was hoping to get some information of the best year waggy to look at. Any years that have options that others don't, or any weird quirks that certain years have that i should look for?? Thanks

[DerekTJeep]

If you want:

1. Rear wiper--go for 1989-1991 Grand Wagoneer

2. If you want quadra trac 4WD wheel drive, go for 1979 Cherokee/Wagoneer or older.

3. If you want a 258 I6 to save on gas, go for mid 1980s or older. There were actually some Grand Wagoneers with 258.

4. If you want a 401 engine, go for 1978 or older. They are rare.

5. Know the price range. There is a 1986 Grand Wagoneer in Highland Park, IL with 151K for $13,995. Some people are silly. lol!!

[AM Woody]

I like the post Chrysler GW's ('88-'91) for the Sanden A/C compressor and the Mitsu starter. Those starters crank faster than the old style ones, which I think helps fire up an old carbed engine easier. And they have gotten cheaper to replace than they used to be.

Not much in the way of options: overhead console is nice, tow package good, limited slip rear available. Sunroof is probably asking for trouble.

[trellis8]

The 70s models are more truck-like, a bit easier to work on. '86 and up has the newer style dash and hvac controls, front and rear D44 axles and a smoother ride. Some of the '83-'84s have a vacuum disconnect front diff which can be a pita. All are worth owning!:thumbsup:

[J300Zack]

Thanks for the replies guys. Looks like my original thoughts are still the same. Searching for a 88-91. If anyone has anything to add that would be great

[G_$]

I agree, 88-91 makes a lot of sense for you.

My 90 has a sunroof. My 89 has the overhead console (which is all in working order).

I STRONGLY prefer the overhead console, even though my sunroof actually works.

Both of course have rear wipers, but neither work.

[Mark Wilde]

I like my 90. Overhead console, rear wiper removed by PO. I've been hoarding every one I've found in the junkyard in hopes of coming across one that works, or I can use any/all of them to fix one.

It's all in what you want. I used to be partial to the round guages on the dash but have grown to like the later square ones.

[J300Zack]

Yea after seeing how dirty the rear window gets on my ZJ, I know the importance of a rear wiper. Do those have a rear washer as well?? Just curious!

[18cherokee]

LOL, my rear wiper (& washer) doesnt work either, hence the recent installation of the rear air deflector. i'm thinking about removing the rear wiper altogether when i get the body work done & the paint resprayed - kinda like a small custom deal for "my" rig.

[jeepskater433]

Yea after seeing how dirty the rear window gets on my ZJ, I know the importance of a rear wiper. Do those have a rear washer as well?? Just curious!

yea when i parted my 89 wagoneer i tried to get it off and broke it:( , overhead console started in 89 i think, same with the rear wiper, sunroofs go throughout the years my 87 has a sunrooof, custom built from ASM (i think thats what the company was called) 86+ front seats had head rests