I'm concidering on getting a 97XLT 4.0L SOHC.
Does anyone have any comments on the SOHC, or anything I should look for on these engines?
Are there any quarks I should know about this year model? I wanted to really get a pre95, but the Boss said no-way. She likes the 95+ models better. Any input would be greatly appreciated, as I might pick it up on Thurdsay. http://www.4x4central.com/ubb/smile.gif

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Happy Wheelin'
Ray L. :)
95 XLT 4X4

I have a 97 sport and I love it. Except for the lack of lift kits and stuff like the. If you are going to get one go with the SOHC. It has a lot more power and you will like it a lot better.
Keith

The 4.0L SOHC is a great little engine. It is a lot quicker than it feels because it is so well matched with the 5 speed auto. It will blow the doors off a 4.0L Cherokee and a 4.3L Blazer. Also the transfer case switch is Auto/4High/4Low.

I don't know if it matters to you but '97 is the last year for the long travel seat track. It makes a big difference if you are over 6 feet tall. In 98 Ford went to a short travel seat track that I cannot get far enough back to be comfortable.

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Paul Gagnon
www.geocities.com/baja/canyon/8253 (http://www.geocities.com/baja/canyon/8253)

Keith, Paul
Thanks for your input. Just one more question. This XLT has a 3.55 rear end http://www.4x4central.com/ubb/frown.gif
I want to keep my 31X10.5 BFG's. How much impact will this make? It didn't make hardly any on my 95 with 3.73's. Also I know my speedo was off by 6MPH before I got it recalibrated on the 95. How much will it be off with the 3.55 gears?(Ok that was 2 questions) http://www.4x4central.com/ubb/wink.gifI picked it up today, but got it late so didn't get a chance to change the tires. Will do that tomorrow, that is unless you guys think I'll loose too much power, too bad for gas mileage.

Thanks in advance! http://www.4x4central.com/ubb/smile.gif
FYI It was a corporate Lease with only 44k and loaded. It came from Detroit and the price was right. I was not looking for another truck, just there at the dealer getting my 95 fixed. I was only getting 16 MPG and the check engine light kept coming on everytime I went over I-152 (Pacheco Pass). They had to replace my main computer. I did a road test back and forth over the Pass at 85MPH, went 4wheeling, and even got it into 4LO on some goat trail in the foot hills. I'll tell you, I'm supprised the salesman let me do all that. All in all, I put 50 miles on it. The SOHC definitely has more power than the OHV, the seats(dual power) are alot better than my 60/40 split bench and I got a 6CD changer. I'm assuming that the Premium stereo is a Sony since the CD changer is a Sony. Yes? And It's got a bunch more niceties. http://www.4x4central.com/ubb/smile.gif

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Happy Wheelin'
Ray L. http://www.4x4central.com/ubb/smile.gif
97 XLT 4X4 4.0L SOHC



[This message has been edited by Ray Lobato (edited 05-05-99).]

I put the 31X10.5 Bfg's on my 97 with the 3.73 gears and didnt notice much difference. I dont know what you 3.55 will be like.