The story
S model, pretty much fully-loaded. The goal with this vehicle is to net 30%-40% of the offroad capability of my 2000 Jeep Cherokee but with 50% better fuel economy.
As purchased, the vehicle had a no-compression issue on the #4 cylinder. This turned out to be the result of a burned/cracked valve and failed valve seal. As part of the process of repairing that, the head gaskets and timing belt (two traditional problem areas with this engine in this year range) were also replaced.
Springs were shot and replaced with Ironman Offroad 35mm lift springs. Future suspension plans call for an additional inch of lift and longer-travel struts.
An auxiliary transmission cooler has been added to help with keeping temperatures down in hilly areas or when crawling.
The transmission controller normally splits torque in a 90:10 front:rear bias, sending more power to the rear as necessary. This is not ideal for the conditions I plan to use the vehicle in, so a secondary resistor pack has been spliced into the controller to allow for true 50:50 4WD. This is switchable and can be engaged as needed. — casm
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