Help with possible 2004 LJ purchase

ALScott

TJ Enthusiast
Original poster
Supporting Member
Joined
Feb 9, 2021
Messages
133
Location
Alabama
Just looked at a 2004 LJ today. It is an automatic, no cruise 93K miles, and bone stock except RV tow and intake. No rust anywhere, really, really clean frame. None even in floorboards. Lived in FL until 2016 and GA since then until made it here for sale.
It has an RV tow set up on the front does that cause any potential issues? Is the fact that it was towed around a problem in itself? Do the miles it's towed show in the 93K? It looks like the valve cover gasket is definitely leaking and maybe main seal but could just be valve cover leak spreading. I looked and oil is all over plate by main seal but no drip.
See pics below and tell me if you see anything concerning. It that weird intake an issue? No engine lights are on. What would be a decent price? Any notable differences in 2004 vs 2005 and 2006?
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Price can vary by area; but I'll play along - 14K. That's assuming it runs without any issues.
If you've been looking for an LJ, then you know your choices are going to be very limited (no pun intended).
I wouldn't let too many pass by waiting for something better (or cheaper).
 
what are they asking for it? I paid 12k for mine and it had 68k on it. If its in the same ball park and clean like you say, I would be all over it.
and whats really nice about the 04..... no OPDA to worry about like the 05-06
 
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PULL THE TRIGGER!
I'm with LongJP2.
And I wouldn't worry about the intake, it's not hurting anything. But not doing anything for performance either. I'd probably head over to pick-a-part and grab a factory setup.
 
That's a Spectre cowl intake. Hasn't been produced in a while. If you want to go back to stock I'm sure you'd have no trouble selling it.
 
Thanks guys. What about the oil on the block.... Just valve cover gasket? Feel dumb asking but what is white and red shock looking deal in front? How about those pin stripes!!! Have to add at least $1K hahahaha..... painted on too!
 
Thanks guys. What about the oil on the block.... Just valve cover gasket? Feel dumb asking but what is white and red shock looking deal in front? How about those pin stripes!!! Have to add at least $1K hahahaha..... painted on too!
All of them leak it’s an age thing
The red and white shock is used as a steering damper. Like to tame wandering while being towed.
 
Flat towing miles won’t register on the odometer. Not a big deal.
Looks nice overall. I’d say buy it if the money is right.
 
Price can vary by area; but I'll play along - 14K. That's assuming it runs without any issues.
If you've been looking for an LJ, then you know your choices are going to be very limited (no pun intended).
I wouldn't let too many pass by waiting for something better (or cheaper).

this.

8 mo search for the right one here. I learned you have to do your homework and communication fast with a potential seller - or it’s gone.

wanted southern, no rust, stock.

gotta move fast when they pop up.
 
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Flat towing miles won’t register on the odometer. Not a big deal.
Looks nice overall. I’d say buy it if the money is right.
I’m pretty sure it will, they had a big discussion about it a year ago on here...don’t quote me cause I am not 100% but ...
 
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Drive it , look it over, check the fluids, 12-14k is the ballpark if your interested.
 
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Flat towing miles do not register.
Ok.. I believed that at first, then read a argument between 2 known posters and then was under the impression it does ever since.. I’m back to believing it doesn’t.. until next time it does😂
 
Ok.. I believed that at first, then read a argument between 2 known posters and then was under the impression it does ever since.. I’m back to believing it doesn’t.. until next time it does😂
With a mechanical driven spedo they will accumulate.
with electronic they shouldn’t since (key off) theres no to process the signal from the spedo gear.
 
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LJ no rust! I would buy that all day at 12K. I had the same oil on the engine. Get new PCV gaskets and you will be good to go. I have a stock air box if you are looking for one. I'd be interested in the Spectra on there.