Nate’s Garage: November edition
December 11, 2022
I don’t know how many people have been on a safari, but generally, people picture a 4-Wheel Drive in some exotic place. Recently, I had the pleasure of taking a little Safari around the grounds of Fallston High with John Hartel in his 2001 Jeep Cherokee.
Jeep finds its origins during WWII; the word “Jeep” being slang for half-ton motor vehicles in the military. The first civilian vehicle under the Jeep brand name was not produced until 1950. The brand now produces sport utility vehicles for the public, ranging from crossovers to offroad capable SUVs and pickup trucks. The Jeep Cherokee, introduced in 1974, was the company’s first full size SUV, and some even consider it the first modern SUV.
The 2001 Jeep Cherokee came from factory with a 4.0 Liter Inline 6 with 193 horsepower and 231-pound feet of torque. With 22’ tires and 8.1 Inches of ground clearance paired with a 4-speed automatic and 4-wheel drive, making the car very capable.
John’s Jeep, affectionately named Natalie, is a Silver 60th Anniversary Jeep Cherokee, making it one of only 2,778 made. John has modified the Jeep extensively, with a 4.5-inch lift and 33 inch all-terrain tires. It also has an Affordable Off-Road front bumper with a mounted winch as well as orange chains, for added school spirit.
The Jeep is yet another example of a car that has influenced not only the United States but the world. John’s Cherokee is the distant relative of the Jeep Willys. Former president and General Dwight Eisenhower was quoted, saying, “The Jeep, the Dakota, and the Landing Craft were the three tools that won the war.” Having your car associated with the victory of the free world in WWII is an awesome thing.
John clearly takes pride in the heritage and state of his car. Both the interior and exterior are beautiful, and I had a fantastic time taking pictures with the car. The modifications keep the rugged look of the car and allow it to give off vibes that only a Jeep can.
Check out the gallery for images of John demonstrating why paved roads are yet another example of unnecessary government spending!
