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S.Y.E.
WJ Grille Refresh
INTRODUCTION

We picked up a 2000 Grand Cherokee not too long ago. This generation of Grand Cherokee's seem to have a common problem with fogging headlights and personally, I've never been a fan of the chrome grille/overlay installed on these Jeeps. I wanted to update the look of the Jeep so I decided I would paint the grille to match (similar to what the Limited models have) and at the same time replace the worn out factory headlights. Here's how I did it.

PARTS

  • Paint (factory matched)
  • Sandable Primer
  • Acrylic Clear Coat
  • Sand Paper (220 & 600+ grit)
  • Mineral Spirits
  • Well Ventilated Garage or paint room
  • Breathable Masks (for you!)
  • Cloths
  • New Headlight Assemblies
  • Basic Hand Tools

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I ordered the factory paint color from the local dealership. I purchased two 5oz cans. I used a white primer to contrast with the color I was using and at the end of this project, I barely had enough to finish. I easily could have used 15oz of factory color but was able to finish with my original quantity. Another color primer might not have soaked up as much paint, but be ready to use more than two of the small cans the dealer has available.

GRILLE REMOVAL

First, open the hood and remove the 4 screws holding the grille to the radiator support. Then remove the 3 screws attached to the plastic grille support.

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Now, there are four circular clips that attach the grille to the bumper overlay. Fair warning, these clips are a PITA when you have them right in front of you. There are two at the top corners that are "easily" accessible. The other two are at the bottom corners and well, good luck not breaking them. I managed to salvage them but be prepared to purchase them from the parts store or they may even be a dealer only item based on the size. Once you remove these clips, the two piece grille comes right out. Once the grille is out, go ahead and separate the plastic insert/mesh from the chrome overlay. These two pieces should come apart easily, there are no clips holding them in place.


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More to come. Still under construction