The 1999 Jeep Cherokee, also known as the XJ, is a legend. Its rugged simplicity, off-road prowess, and boxy charm have made it a favorite among enthusiasts for decades. But even a classic can benefit from upgrades. Aftermarket parts allow you to personalize your '99 Cherokee, improve its performance, enhance its capabilities, and keep it running strong for years to come. This guide will delve into the world of 1999 Jeep Cherokee aftermarket parts, covering everything from lift kits to lighting, helping you transform your XJ into the ultimate off-road machine or a comfortable daily driver, perfectly tailored to your needs and preferences.
Why Aftermarket Parts for Your 1999 Jeep Cherokee?
Unleash Your 1999 Jeep Cherokee: A Comprehensive Guide to Aftermarket Parts
The beauty of the XJ lies in its potential. While capable in its stock form, aftermarket parts offer a range of improvements:
- Enhanced Off-Road Performance: Tackle tougher trails with lift kits, improved suspension, and rugged tires.
- Increased Durability: Replace worn-out components with stronger, more reliable parts.
- Personalized Style: Customize the look of your XJ with unique bumpers, wheels, and lighting.
- Improved Comfort: Upgrade seats, sound systems, and other interior components for a more enjoyable ride.
- Increased Resale Value: While not always guaranteed, well-chosen upgrades can increase the value and desirability of your Cherokee.
Section 1: Suspension and Lift Kits: Conquer Any Terrain
One of the most popular and impactful upgrades for a 1999 Cherokee is a suspension lift. Lifting your XJ allows you to install larger tires, increasing ground clearance and improving approach, departure, and break-over angles – critical for off-road performance.
Types of Lift Kits:
- Budget Boost (Coil Spacers/Shackle Lifts): The most affordable option, providing a small lift (1-2 inches) using coil spacers in the front and shackle extensions in the rear. Ideal for fitting slightly larger tires and improving the stance of your Jeep.
- Benefits: Inexpensive, easy to install.
- Considerations: Can result in a harsher ride and doesn't improve suspension articulation.
- Add-a-Leaf (AAL): Involves adding a leaf spring to the existing leaf pack in the rear. Provides a modest lift (1.5-2 inches).
- Benefits: Relatively inexpensive, improves load-carrying capacity.
- Considerations: Can stiffen the ride.
- Full Leaf Spring Packs: Replaces the entire rear leaf spring pack with a new, lifted pack. Offers a smoother ride and better articulation than AALs.
- Benefits: Improved ride quality, better articulation.
- Considerations: More expensive than AALs.
- Short Arm Lift Kits: Replace the factory control arms with slightly longer arms, allowing for more suspension travel. Typically used for lifts of 3-4.5 inches.
- Benefits: Improved off-road performance, allows for larger tires.
- Considerations: Can require SYE (Slip Yoke Eliminator) kits to address driveline vibrations at higher lifts.
- Long Arm Lift Kits: Replace the factory control arms with much longer arms, relocating the mounting points further back on the chassis. Provides the best articulation and ride quality for lifts of 4.5 inches and higher.
- Benefits: Superior off-road performance, excellent ride quality.
- Considerations: Most expensive option, requires welding and significant modification.
Important Considerations When Choosing a Lift Kit:
- Desired Lift Height: Determine how much lift you need based on the tire size you want to run and the type of terrain you'll be tackling.
- Budget: Lift kits range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
- Installation Difficulty: Consider your mechanical skills and whether you'll need professional installation.
- Driveline Angles: Lifts can affect driveline angles, leading to vibrations. You may need a Slip Yoke Eliminator (SYE) kit and/or transfer case drop to correct these issues.
- Brake Lines: Longer brake lines may be required to accommodate the increased suspension travel.
- Steering Geometry: Lifting your Cherokee can affect steering geometry. Adjustable track bars and drop pitman arms can help correct these issues.
Section 2: Bumpers, Armor, and Protection: Shielding Your Investment
Off-roading can be tough on your vehicle. Aftermarket bumpers, rock sliders, and skid plates provide essential protection for vulnerable components.
- Front Bumpers: Offer improved approach angles, winch mounting points, and protection for the front end. Available in various styles, from minimalist steel bumpers to full-width bumpers with brush guards.
- Rear Bumpers: Protect the rear of your Cherokee from impacts and often include integrated hitch receivers and tire carriers.
- Rock Sliders: Protect the rocker panels from damage when navigating rocks and obstacles. Essential for serious off-roading.
- Skid Plates: Shield the engine, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank from rocks and debris.
- Corner Guards: Protect the rear corners of your Cherokee from damage.
Choosing the Right Armor:
- Material: Steel is the most common and durable material for bumpers and armor. Aluminum is lighter but less strong.
- Thickness: Thicker steel provides better protection.
- Design: Choose a design that suits your needs and aesthetic preferences.
- Installation: Some bumpers and armor require welding, while others are bolt-on.
Section 3: Wheels and Tires: Traction and Style
Upgrading your wheels and tires is a great way to improve both the performance and appearance of your 1999 Cherokee.
- Wheels: Aftermarket wheels offer a variety of styles, sizes, and offsets. Consider the backspacing when choosing wheels to ensure they clear the suspension components.
- Tires: Choose tires based on the type of terrain you'll be driving on.
- All-Terrain Tires: A good compromise for on-road and off-road use.
- Mud-Terrain Tires: Provide excellent traction in mud and loose terrain.
- Rock Crawling Tires: Designed for maximum grip on rocks.
Important Considerations:
- Tire Size: Ensure the tires you choose are compatible with your lift kit and wheel well clearance.
- Wheel Offset: Choose an offset that provides the desired stance and tire clearance.
- Load Rating: Ensure the tires have a sufficient load rating for your vehicle.
Section 4: Lighting: Illuminate the Trail
Upgrading your lighting can significantly improve visibility both on and off the road.
- Headlights: Replace the factory headlights with brighter LED or HID headlights for improved nighttime visibility.
- Fog Lights: Add fog lights for improved visibility in foggy or snowy conditions.
- Off-Road Lights: Mount off-road lights on the bumper, roof rack, or A-pillars for maximum illumination on the trail.
- Interior Lighting: Upgrade the interior lighting with LED bulbs for a brighter and more modern look.
Types of Off-Road Lights:
- Spot Lights: Provide a focused beam of light for long-distance visibility.
- Flood Lights: Provide a wide beam of light for illuminating a large area.
- Light Bars: Combine spot and flood lights for a versatile lighting solution.
Section 5: Performance Upgrades: More Power and Efficiency
While the 4.0L inline-six engine in the 1999 Cherokee is known for its reliability, there are several aftermarket parts that can improve its performance.
- Cold Air Intake: Improves airflow to the engine, resulting in a slight increase in horsepower and torque.
- Performance Exhaust: Reduces backpressure, allowing the engine to breathe more freely.
- Throttle Body Spacer: Increases throttle response.
- Performance Chip: Reprograms the engine's computer to optimize performance.
Section 6: Interior Upgrades: Comfort and Convenience
Improve the comfort and convenience of your 1999 Cherokee with these interior upgrades.
- Seat Covers: Protect your seats from wear and tear and add a touch of style.
- Floor Mats: Protect the carpet from dirt and debris.
- Sound System: Upgrade the factory sound system with a new head unit, speakers, and amplifier.
- Center Console: Add a center console for extra storage space.
Section 7: Maintenance and Repair Parts: Keeping Your XJ Alive
Don't forget about the essential maintenance and repair parts that will keep your 1999 Cherokee running strong for years to come.
- Brakes: Replace worn-out brake pads and rotors.
- Suspension Components: Replace worn-out shocks, springs, and bushings.
- Cooling System: Replace the radiator, water pump, and hoses.
- Fuel System: Replace the fuel pump, filter, and injectors.
Price Table
| Part Category | Part Description | Estimated Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suspension | |||
| Budget Boost (Coil Spacers/Shackles) | $100 - $300 | Entry-level lift, easy to install. | |
| Add-a-Leaf Kit | $150 - $400 | Simple lift for rear only. | |
| Full Leaf Spring Pack (Rear) | $300 - $800 per pair | Improved ride and articulation. | |
| Short Arm Lift Kit (3-4.5") | $800 - $2000 | Requires careful setup to avoid driveline issues. | |
| Long Arm Lift Kit (4.5"+) | $2000 - $5000+ | Best articulation and ride, but significant installation. | |
| Bumpers/Armor | |||
| Front Bumper (Steel, basic) | $300 - $800 | Varies by features like winch mounts, D-ring mounts. | |
| Rear Bumper (Steel, basic) | $300 - $700 | Similar to front, often includes hitch receiver. | |
| Rock Sliders (Steel, per pair) | $200 - $600 | Essential for off-road protection. | |
| Skid Plates (Full set) | $250 - $700 | Protects vital components underneath. | |
| Wheels/Tires | |||
| Off-Road Wheels (Each) | $100 - $300 | Alloy or steel, choose based on durability and style. | |
| All-Terrain Tires (Each) | $150 - $350 | Versatile for on and off-road. | |
| Mud-Terrain Tires (Each) | $200 - $400 | Aggressive tread for mud and soft terrain. | |
| Lighting | |||
| LED Headlight Conversion Kit | $50 - $200 | Drastically improves visibility. | |
| Off-Road Light Bar | $50 - $500+ | Varies by size, intensity, and brand. | |
| Performance | |||
| Cold Air Intake Kit | $100 - $300 | Minor performance boost. | |
| Cat-Back Exhaust System | $200 - $500 | Improves sound and may slightly increase power. | |
| Interior | |||
| Seat Covers (Front pair) | $50 - $200 | Protects seats and adds style. | |
| Floor Mats (Set) | $30 - $100 | Keeps interior clean. | |
| Maintenance/Repair | |||
| Brake Pads (Front pair) | $30 - $100 | Crucial for safety. | |
| Shocks (Each) | $30 - $150 | Replace for better ride and handling. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What size tires can I fit on my stock 1999 Cherokee?
- A: Generally, you can fit 30x9.5 tires on a stock XJ with minor trimming.
- Q: Do I need to re-gear after lifting my Cherokee?
- A: Re-gearing is recommended for lifts of 3 inches or more, especially if you plan on running larger tires. It helps restore power and fuel economy.
- Q: How much does it cost to have a lift kit installed?
- A: Installation costs vary depending on the complexity of the kit and the labor rates in your area. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2000 for professional installation.
- Q: What is a Slip Yoke Eliminator (SYE) kit?
- A: An SYE kit replaces the slip yoke on the transfer case with a fixed yoke, allowing for a longer driveshaft and reducing driveline vibrations at higher lifts.
- Q: Where can I find aftermarket parts for my 1999 Jeep Cherokee?
- A: You can find aftermarket parts online from retailers like Quadratec, Extreme Terrain, and Amazon, as well as from local auto parts stores and off-road specialty shops.
Conclusion: Your XJ, Your Way
The 1999 Jeep Cherokee is a versatile platform for customization. Whether you're looking to improve its off-road capabilities, enhance its style, or simply keep it running reliably, the aftermarket parts market offers a wide range of options. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and skill level, you can transform your '99 Cherokee into the perfect vehicle for your adventures. Remember to research thoroughly, choose quality parts, and don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed. Happy Jeeping!
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