Looking at possibly picking up a KJ as a first rig for one of my Daughters, I'm unfamiliar with these models.

I asked elsewhere but recently was pointed in the LOST direction.. nice site.

Working with a ~$5K budget i see I'm pretty much limited to earlier KJ's in my area, and i'v been advised the 02-03's suffer engine and electrical issues more so than the 04+.. is this accurate?

Is there a better "vintage"?

What should i avoid or seek out?

I'll be looking for an auto/4WD rig.

Appreciate input..

If you can get your hands on a CRD [common rail diesel], you'll be in for a treat. They tend to be a bit more expensive but can squeeze upper 20 mpg versus the mid to high teens for mpg on the 3.7. I have a 3.7 so I can't speak too much for the diesels but I do know there is a complaint for not having many experienced mechanics. I have heard of the early model liberties having terrible electrical issues, I have a 2004 and have not had really any bad problems. Worst complaint is the gas mileage though on the 3.7, it's a big engine stuffed inside a box, what can you expect. hah
Hope this helps you with your decision!

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2004 KJ 4x4 Sport
OME 2 Inch Lift
15" Crager Soft 8s, 4 Inch BS
31x10.5x15 BFG AT
Hella Blackmagic Lights
Bermuda Black LED Taillights

Yeah, I haven't seen a CRD in our price range.

Appreciate the input.. any 02-03 owners care to share their experiences?

Found this.. Daughter likes it and i'll try to go look it over this weekend.

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/4235150906.html

If taken care of they are all good, 02-early 03s have stronger transmissions, other than that make sure on maintenance is good.
Couldn't give me a truck load of CRDs , gas easier and cheaper
as far as mielage keep the spark plugs changed with common copper cores , rest of maintenance up and they will do fine. Mine lifted etc pulls 21-22 mpgs at 75 MPH all day long

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MUDD'S MOTORSPORT'S We do IFS lift installs ,
03 OVERLAND EDITION /Kilby-Skidrow-Mopar-4XGuard skids/ 2.5 inch TOTAL CONTROL JBA coilovers -JBA Arms/MOABS-31 FALKEN WILDPEAK AT3W / 4.10's etc, 04 Kilimanjaro Edition loaded, plus 05 KJ limited

Was this the 45RFE?