Build Breakdown: 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ – Street Legal Savage Rock Crawler
In the off-road world, the Jeep Cherokee XJ is legendary. Its unibody design, proven 4.0L inline-six engine, and short wheelbase made it a budget platform right from the factory. But when you take that foundation and add a purpose-built Savage Fab exocage, heavy-duty drivetrain upgrades, and a trail-focused suspension, you get something far more formidable—a street legal rock crawler that’s as ready for the highway as it is for the toughest lines in the Sierras.
This 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ is exactly that: a finely tuned mix of off-road capability and road-going legality. It’s not a mall crawler; it’s not a weekend warrior—it’s a full-time adventure rig that can take you from your driveway to the rocks without ever seeing a trailer.
The Heart – Jeep’s 4.0L Inline-Six
Under the hood sits the tried-and-true 4.0L inline-six, paired with an automatic transmission and 4×4 transfer case. The 4.0 is a staple in Jeep history—renowned for its torque-rich delivery, simplicity, and reliability. This one breathes easier thanks to a THOR Intake and a Banks Exhaust Header, both CARB-legal for California compliance, paired with a Flowmaster muffler for a deeper growl. The A/C compressor has been deleted, reducing parasitic drag and simplifying the engine bay for off-road reliability.
Cooling is handled by a Mishimoto 3-core aluminum radiator, ensuring the motor stays in its happy temperature zone even on slow, technical climbs in the summer heat.
Drivetrain – Built to Crawl
This Cherokee is sitting on Dana 30 front and Chrysler 8.25 rear axles, both upgraded with 4.56 gears and Spartan Lockers for maximum traction. Power is sent through an NP231 transfer case upgraded with a slip yoke eliminator, connected to Adams Driveshafts front and rear for bulletproof reliability.
Steering is precise and strong thanks to a Redhead steering box and Cavfab crossover high-steer system, eliminating bump steer and keeping control solid on uneven terrain.
Suspension – Flex and Stability
The suspension is where this XJ truly separates itself from stock form. Up front, you have an Iron Rock Offroad 3-link long arm kit paired with Synergy 4.5-inch springs for superior articulation and ride quality. The rear uses matching 4.5-inch leaf springs, giving the Jeep a balanced stance on 35×12.50R15 Cooper tires wrapped around ProComp wheels.
This setup not only soaks up bumps on the trail but also keeps the ride surprisingly composed on pavement—a rare feat for a crawler on 35s.
Protection & Armor – Savage Fab Exocage
The centerpiece of this build is the Savage Fab custom exocage—a full external roll cage that protects the body and driver in extreme rock crawling situations. Integrated rock sliders keep the rocker panels safe from boulders, while the spare tire carrier and VP gas jug holder make it ready for long trail days without a support vehicle.
Add in front and rear steel bumpers, a Badlands Apex winch up front, and this Jeep can get in—and out—of just about any obstacle.
Lighting & Extras
For night runs, the Jeep features LED headlights, LED bumper lights, and LED rock lights, turning night crawling into daylight. Brown Dog Offroad motor mounts keep the engine securely in place under extreme torque loads, ensuring nothing shifts where it shouldn’t.
On-Road & Off-Road Impressions
On the road, the 4.0L engine and well-chosen gearing keep it perfectly drivable at highway speeds. The 3-link suspension and high-steer setup reduce wandering, making it much less fatiguing to drive than many trail-only rigs.
Off-road, the combination of gearing, lockers, and suspension flex makes short work of technical climbs and off-camber situations. The Savage Fab exocage means you can commit to aggressive lines without worrying about body damage, and the winch is there for those “just in case” moments.
Final Verdict
This 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ isn’t just another lifted Jeep—it’s a purpose-built street legal rock crawler that merges hardcore off-road capability with everyday usability. The Savage Fab exocage, drivetrain upgrades, and quality suspension make it trail-ready from day one, while its CARB-legal performance mods keep it compliant in even the strictest states.
If you’re looking for a turnkey adventure vehicle that can handle both the commute and the most punishing rock gardens, this XJ might just be the ultimate all-in-one package.
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