I'm looking to buy a disc2. I've found 2 for sale near me. One is a 02 with off road front bumper. The other is a 04 both need head gasket replaced. I plan to use it for trail riding camping and as a bug out vehicle. Does it really matter on those two years or is one better. Thanks Nelson.

 

Re: trail riding camping and as a bug out vehicle

The 2004 comes with a factory Center Diff Lock. The 2002 will need some work to add the CDL feature.

Here is an article l that I saved from the past explaining the model year differences.

 

2004 has 4.6 ltr engine, 2002 has 4.0. The ‘03 and ‘04 4.6’s had more issues (eg slipped liners/cracked heads) than the earlier engines, but lots of people have really good luck with them anyway.
Also, the ‘04 has upgraded headlights.
You’re probably best off getting the one that seems to have been maintained better.

 

Maybe the most important deciding factor would be to check for frame rust. A rotten frame might make the vehicle scrap.

 

Unless you get them dirt cheap and frame and body are good pass - you don't know if it only a head gasket or something worse. By good price 1000.00 or less.

 

TBH, I prefer the glass headlights. Aesthetically, I think they're classic, and don't have to worry about the lens fogging up. That being said, I'm saying this from the very comfortable position of having a stockpile of spares for the inevitable rock that shatters one someday.