1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited

[Jordan White]

For this build, I'll be using the Tamiya Jeep Grand Cherokee kit (which is kitted as the 5.2 Limited model), and converting it into the special edition '98 5.9 Limited.

As you can see, it has 5-spoke wheels versus the multi-spoke wheels that come with the kit. In order to replicate these, I'm using the set of wheels from the Tamiya Wrangler kit, cutting out the spokes, and inserting the wheel front from the AMT '97 Trans Am kit. The only obvious visual difference is the wheel center is convex, compared to the concave center of the actual wheel, though from a distance this isn't an issue.

Edited October 8, 2013 by Jordan White

[Chuck Most]

Nice! Can't wait to see how you handle the modifications to the grille and front bumper cover. I have one of these kits I'd like to convert to a '97.

[Jordan White]

The grille should be easy, I just have to cut out the "inserts" and figure out some sort of scale mesh to insert in place.

The side panels and bumpers however will require a bit of filling and extra styrene.

Edit: Just noticed that the grille is indeed differently shaped.

Edited October 8, 2013 by Jordan White

[Jordan White]

Well I got the bumper starting to take shape to represent the later styling. As you can see it's still rough and needs filler, but I think it's going to turn out great.

[hjracing]

It's seemes to be a really cool project, and you are doing a great job! I'll keep an eye on this one.

[Jordan White]

Just noticed that the lower vents changed from 8 to 7 on the later models, so I had to cut the old ones out and graft in some new vents.

[Chuck Most]

Yep, they redid the grille, some of the body cladding, and some of the interior widgets for the '96 model year, and of course the 5.9 Limited had a few of its own unique parts. The bumper is looking good so far!

[fantacmet]

Whatever happened to this?

I have a 98 Grand Cherokee Limited 5.2.

I can take any photo's you need if they'd help. It's not a special edition or anything, but from what I read especially the interior is pretty much unchanged. Mine is also fairly optioned.

[Jordan White]

Its still on the workbench, just taking a break for a bit since theres so much modifications I have to make to update it to a '98 model. Should be starting on it again after Christmas.

[fantacmet]

Well the offer to take high res photo's is still open. If you do get this done, and you get it cast in resin I may be interested in a couple. One for the Jeep as it sits, one for how I WANT it to sit. HAHAHA

[Jordan White]

Never thought about resin since I've never done it before but I'll keep your photo offer in mind!