New wagoneer questions

[86wagoneer78]

Hi guys,

I'm new to the full size jeeps but not new to jeeps. I had a 94 wrangler which I lifted an wheeled. Then a 2001 Cherokee that I built a stroker for. I'd probably still have that jeep if it hadn't been stolen. I have a friend looking to sell an 86 Wagoneer for a good price. I'm seriously thinking about buying it. It has 140,000 miles and he said runs great. Passes Washington emissions, AC works, 4 wheel drive works, paint is in good shape. Im thinking about useing it for a daily driver. Is that a mistake? I know its old and its going to need some work from time to time but I dont mind wrenching.

Im looking for any advice or suggestions. What should I look for when I go check it out? What goes bad at 140,000 miles? Most common problems? Daily drive issues? Can I get it to pass CA emissions? I know the AMC 360 isn't fuel eficient but what is the best milage I'll get out of it? What can I do to improve the milage?

Thanks in advance!

Adam

[Chevelleguy]

Gas mileage will be 12-15 when properly tuned. You can't do much better with the stock drivetrain.

Ignition upgrades (TFI, HEI, MSD) may help with smoothness or quicker starts.

Fuel injection (TBI) is a simple upgrade and will offer 1-2mpg but much improved starting and driveability.

Oil leaks will be of some concern with that kind of mileage but can be fixed.

To get it to pass emissions, it is going to need to be in proper tune, have everything present (EGR, AIR pump, ect.),and a good working catalitic converter.

Welcome, and have fun.

[PlasticBoob]

Welcome! Honestly, in L.A. I'd get one that is emissions exempt, or one that at least has a QuadraTrac so they can only do the idle emissions test.

[mattmopar440]

Welcome

Check the trans fluid and look at the plugs check for oil 360's are good for about 150-180 K most start showing age some can go much longer depends on PO driving habits

[fulsizjeep]

Welcome! Buy It!
I would not worry about driving it as a DD if you are comfortable with tinkering on stuff. My tired 360 had 235K on it when #2 cylinder developed a problem. There is a 74 Waggy belongs to a member here with 340K plus something like that. He drives it cross country and puts it through the trails in Moab. Depends on how they have been treated.

[draglink]

Since gas has dropped I have parked my car and my '86 GW has been my DD(usually over 100 miles depending on my calls). I love it....my only issue is gas mileage, but its worth it...buy it and drive it!!

[86wagoneer78]

Thanks guys! I have an F150 4x4 now so nearly the same milage is cool with me.

Anyone have any specific suggestions for things that I should look at before I buy. Obviously, the fluids but what are common weak points?

[draglink]

More experienced guys will probably chime in, but I know the frame by the gas tank is known to rust out bad....check that......

[dajeeps]

welcome,the engine and driveterane are the main issues,and finding parts .i'm sure their is enough here on the forum to help out.you will be happy with a wag and they ride and drive like a cad.

[jaber]

WELCOME!!!!

Originally Posted by 86wagoneer78

Im thinking about useing it for a daily driver. Is that a mistake?

I DD a '77 J10 and my wifes is an '88 GW. We prefer to have the kids in something that will not crumple like a beer can. You know theres something up when they start replacing steel frames and bumpers with balloons in the name of "progress".....

[maccj5]

replace transfer case chain asap and you'll be ready to go. the chains on these t cases will go kaboom if used hard or has high miles other than that they are quite durable also change all fluids you can learn a lot by looking at what drains out of everything

[86wagoneer78]

Thanks for the help Everyone. Anyone else with words of wisdom?