I had a 1998 Sahara with the 4.0 and automatic transmission. It had 235,000 miles on it. I never did anything to the engine or trans other than normal service. The impeller on the water pump sheared off inside the water pump housing, the serpentine belt was turning the shaft but it was not moving any coolant. It ran extremely quickly and burned two pistons before I could get out of traffic and get stopped. I believe it would still be running today had the freak failure of the water pump not happened. I personally would by this Jeep at the price he is asking. But I do like the restoration process. Plan to replace or rebuild the motor, but in the meantime just keep it serviced and you will be surprised at how long it will survive. I had and 89 YJ before the Sahara and I put over 500,00 miles on it, running four inch lift and 33 inch tires. I sold it to my best friend who put an additional 50,000 miles on it before he pulled the motor and rebuilt it. It was running when he pulled it out. He bored it 20 over stock, and did a basic refresh on everything. The only reason he pulled it out ( he said ) was to pull his boat and he was afraid it might be too much strain on the higher mileage engine. I personally would buy this Jeep, but I have had several and know where the weak links are. But there really are not that many. These vehicles are robust, almost like tractors and will give you many years of service if properly serviced. I hope this helps as I don't want to push you into a bad deal, or an unwise purchase. I can't drive it or crawl under it so in my opinion you should get someone knowledgeable to go with you to inspect it closely. Good luck.
Thanks guys!
