Replace 94 GC with newer 2000 ???

donp · 02-25-2003, 07:09 AM

Hello All, my 1st post here, searched the web hi + low and jeepforum looked like the best resource so here goes. Sorry it's a little long.

I currently have a 94 GC Laredo with I6 which I use for towing a 2700+lb boat. Most of the time it's used as a kid hauler by my wife. I'm not a total gearhead but I've done a few things to help with towing; Edelbrock IAS shocks, tranny cooler, larger V8 radiator, tranny filter/oil changes, syn gear lube in rear end, syn oil in engine. It has performed very well and very little has ever gone wrong with this Jeep; radiator, fuel pump, catalytic conv. , normal brake maintenance, tires, but after 160K that's not bad.

My question is how much does it have left? It's been leaking oil at a pretty good clip out of the rear seal, doesn't burn oil, power still seems good. Command-trac 4WD has never had a problem. BTW for all those complaining about difficult shifting transfer cases I put Mobil1 syn atf in my TC and ever since it has shifted like a hot knife through butter. Anyhow found a nice 2000 GC Laredo with I6, I like the new & improved leg room, spare under rear deck and engine compartment looks to have a slightly improved layout. The 2000 has the Selec-trac 4WD. I've read quite a few negative comments about the 99 GC's, hoping they got things right in the 2000. Is the 2000 worth it? Is the Selec-trac as reliable as the Command-trac? Are the newer GC's that much better or worse than older style? Or do you think my 94 has plenty of miles left in it?

Thanks,

Donp

moabster · 02-25-2003, 02:55 PM

Welcome to the Forum.

I traded my '93 in on a new 2000 a couple of years ago. I have had no regrets. I enjoy the added room in the cargo area. I also got the Limited model instead of the Laredo which included leather seats, sun roof, and other creature comforts. I love it. I have the V8 engine in both jeeps so I really can't speak about the I6. 180,000 miles is probably nearing the expected end of life but if it has been well maintained it could go for another 100K. Your Jeep is at the age where things like the starter, water pump, AC Compressor, seals and hoses start to wear out. It can get expensive to keep everything working. If it has a lot of electrical toys like power windows, seats, locks, etc. Those start to fail at this age also.

That's my $.02