So In search for a Cherokee I stumbled on and quickly purchased an 89 grand wagoneer.
While it wasn’t in a barn, it was right next to one since about 2005. 1 owner, 150k miles, after storing for a friend they received the title to just do whatever with it. It hasn’t ran or moved until I got it yesterday, it came with a reman transmission in the trunk too (assuming current trans is bad). A grand total of 4 rust spots, the typical front floor pans have silver dollar sized holes and one 1/4” rust hole next to the antenna along with leaky vent windows. Otherwise body and frame is immaculate! Once I got it trailered home I learned it brakes, rolls and turns well at least.
Strangely the dash and (perfect) headliner is tan but carpet, seats and door panels are burgundy? Is that a thing?
My goal here is to restomod this bad boy keeping it more or less original, but with a 3-4” lift and tires to match. I want to have fun family rig to take camping and through the snow and dirt trails, no more rock crawling for me. EFI is in the picture one day as well. This is a big project I’m excited for and I want to approach this correctly so I’m curious for advice. Unfortunately, winter in Massachusetts will limit what I can do until warmer weather comes, but below is my general plan of attack.
Inspection and assessment
1- Clean interior and engine bay
2- PB cylinders
3- Inventory loose parts
4- Remove interior, clean and dry
-Inspect and assess
5- Turn over engine (hopefully)
6- Inspect wiring, relays and switches
7- Brakes and wheel/axle bearings
8- Install battery and assess electrical
9- Drain gas tank
10- Oil change
11- Radiator flush
12- Attempt turnover with starter
Priorities after assessment
Seal in (Door/ window seals)
Driveline and brakes
Undercoating and corrosion prevention (sooner if warmer weather arrives)
Electrical/accessories
Suspension and tires
Trim and paint
Bougie stuff
Thanks for anyone’s advice or input. Excited to start on my first FSJ and create something to hopefully enjoy with family for many years
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