Jeep Wrangler

Serendipity

So - I'm looking to buy a used Jeep Wrangler 'cause I go camping a lot and enjoy the outdoors.

What should I be looking for when checking out a used vehicle? Should I bring my mechanic? Or hire someone to check it out locally (some shops do this, $85-150 is what I've seen around here).

ND13

Make sure you get a '97-04(Quadra-coil suspension versus front and rear leaf-spring in the '95 and earlier...square headlight versions) . The 4.0 I-6 is bulletproof and DO NOT get the slushbox automatic. An "X" or "SPORT", with anti-spin differential(Dana) will be all you need. Get the 30" tire and wheel pkg. If you can afford to pay extra for the "Rubicon" edition, do so. Always get it checked out unless it's a clean, low-mileage, one-owner that hasn't been modded.

Good Luck in your endeavor.

There was no '96 model.

AudioGenics

Jeep Wrangler TJ rocks !

Rubicon ... the ultimate

Serendipity

What about the 2.5 4cyl models, I heard from audiobliss they aren't as good as the 4.0. Why is that?

Also is a lifted Jeep a good or bad thing?

AudioGenics

I drive a 4.0L 1999 TJ Sahara
My son drives a 2.5L 1999 TJ Wrangler SE

depends on the lift
know your and the vehicle design limitations

ND13

The 4 banger won't get out of it's own way and the difference in "real world" fuel economy is negligible.

The 4s are good for rock climbing(modded with a granny gear), though. But I don't think that's what you need one for.

Serendipity

I meant is it bad to buy a lifted Jeep... or is it better to find one that hasn't been modded?

ND13

appadv wrote: »

I meant is it bad to buy a lifted Jeep... or is it better to find one that hasn't been modded?

Unless you have the history on the lifted vehicle, I'd steer clear. Bone stock, they'll take you just about anywhere you'd ever need to go. They have to be able to run the Rubicon Trail, stock, in order to even get the Jeep nameplate.

audiobliss

ND13 wrote: »

Unless you have the history on the lifted vehicle, I'd steer clear. Bone stock, they'll take you just about anywhere you'd ever need to go. They have to be able to run the Rubicon Trail, stock, in order to even get the Jeep nameplate.

You can't be serious. Unless there's a paved walking trail with a sign posted that reads "Rubicon Trail", I don't see a Liberty (or Patriot or Commander for that matter) getting through it.

Serendipity

audiobliss wrote: »

You can't be serious. Unless there's a paved walking trail with a sign posted that reads "Rubicon Trail", I don't see a Liberty (or Patriot or Commander for that matter) getting through it.

I think he is referring to the new Wrangler Rubicon...

Serendipity

Also, I'm on a student budget and want to spend $2000-3000 max. I have no problem with an older Jeep as long as it runs.

Some audio gear may have to go...

AudioGenics

just wondering in what part of the USA do you live ?
for $2-3K - you are looking at some old very high mileage Jeeps Wranglers.

the Liberty will be much less expensive.
Is this what you are leaning towards ?

very difficult to find a Jeep TJ in decent condition... still needed to put more $$ into them to pass inspection here in Md.

and the TJ gas mileage is BAD....

Serendipity

NY metro area / 5 boroughs...

Also looking in New Jersey, etc.

AudioGenics

so .... are u searching for a wrangler ?

Cherokees are really cheap and you could easily find one of those.

AudioGenics

here's a 98
so probably high mileage 97 or 98

http://baltimore.craigslist.org/cto/1275466684.html

1998 Jeep Wrangler - $3700
Date: 2009-07-17, 7:04PM EDT
Reply to: sale-yd74r-1275466684@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]

1998 Jeep Wrangler
145,754 miles
AS IS
I need to sell this ASAP, I will consider ALL REASONABLE offers!!
Serious inquires only!!

Serendipity

jvc wrote: »

so .... are u searching for a wrangler ?

Cherokees are really cheap and you could easily find one of those.

Yes I'm searching for a Wrangler.

Why? My mom wants to give me her old car (2000 Nissan Maxima), but I told her I will buy a Jeep with my own money and she could sell the Nissan.

I don't need anything fancy anyways, I want to buy something own my own.

bobman1235

If you plan on parking it anywhere in that city, I'd make sure you either always leave it EMPTY, or get a hard top (however much it hurts me to say it). People just take a knife to those soft tops and they're in.

The four cylinder is BRUTAL to drive around. There is almost no benefit to it. Steer clear.

I hope you're good with a wrench, cuz at that price range you're going to be buying something that breaks a lot. Luckily Jeep parts are cheap and easy to fix.

Do you have another vehicle for use in teh city? Or do you not drive in the city? I can't imagine owning something like a Jeep in NYC.

Serendipity

Why would anyone drive in the city? I always take the train whenever I go to Manhattan.

bobman1235

HAHA, my question exactly, but people do do it Just makin' sure.

ND13

The Liberty, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, old Cherokees, Commanders(all in 4x4 config) all have to pass the trail test. The Patriot and Compass are crosovers based on the Caliber chasis and don't have the "Trail Rated" badge.

Serendipity

This is the car I would drive, only thing it's not a 4x4.

I told her to sell it already. So I'm going for a Jeep Wrangler.

AudioGenics

good luck on your search for a Wrangler

http://www.jeeptalk.org/jeep_wave.php

The Jeep Wave: An honor bestowed upon those drivers with the superior intelligence, taste, class, and discomfort tolerance to own the ultimate vehicle - the Jeep. Generally consists of vigorous side-to-side motion of one or both hands, but may be modified to suit circumstances and locally accepted etiquette. Examples of commonly accepted modifications:

* Top off: One handed wave above windshield
or outside body tub
* Top off during blizzard: Shiver and nod, hands may remain frozen to steering wheel
* Southern/rural locations: Raise fingers from steering wheel, nod

It's not what you buy, it's what you build and what you do with it.
In keeping with this cardinal rule of Jeeping, categories have been established to account for each part of the equation.

These categories are:

* The Jeep Waving Hierarchy: Based on the vehicle itself. Takes into account the nostalgia factor, the discomfort tolerance quotient, and the amount of owner dedication required to maintain the steed.
* The Modifying Sub-categories: Based on what you do with your Jeep.
* Equipment Adjustments: What you build.

Serendipity

jvc wrote: »

* Top off during blizzard: Shiver and nod, hands may remain frozen to steering wheel

This one's hilarious.

BTW, I don't mind the bumpy ride, wind noise, etc. That's part of the fun, isn't it?

Serendipity

bobman1235 wrote: »

I hope you're good with a wrench, cuz at that price range you're going to be buying something that breaks a lot. Luckily Jeep parts are cheap and easy to fix..

I'd rather work on it myself than take the "free" car from my parents. I'm sure I'll learn plenty of things along the way. Worst come to worst, we have a mechanic in the family.

AudioGenics

no matter what anybody says.... I like driving my JEEP TJ

also by the way
I like the LCG designs- Low Center of Gravity
....however
Lifting Kits is much more available and popular and can be very complex
when changing the geometry and specifications.

Serendipity

A lot of Jeeps on the used market are lifted though... almost all the ones I've seen so far.

AudioGenics

It is very popular and easy to lift a Jeep although not always down in the best or safest way.
That is probably why you see more modified than pure unadulterated stock Wranglers....

STUDY very hard about lift kits and modifying the Jeep.
What seems to be a simple change can be extremely complicated and expensive.

That why I suggested to get involved with a 4x4 club so you can experience first hand and watch what people attempt to change and do.

Some are just outstanding and professionally done with attention to detail
and others are just downright scary.

just changing rims sizes FOR EXAMPLE
from 15x6 or 15x7 STOCK or Optional
15x8 5 x 4.5 bolt spacing depending on the tire sizes you choose to upgrade
going with a 31 inch tire ( above 32 you will need to lift or cut to do LCG)
you may have to adjust the steering stops to prevent rubbing.

check this url:

http://www.4x4xplor.com/mods-TJ.html

http://www.4x4xplor.com/steerstop.html

Also remember STATE INSPECTION MVA LAWS

in MD we have the State Police Safety Inspection requirement to pass.

Serendipity

Some are daily drivers... pass inspection and everything, just need a little TLC / minor repairs.

AudioGenics

it is hard to predict how lucky you will be when buying a USED wrangler with high mileage.

obviously the best is to buy from someone you know and trust

otherwise set aside monies for maintenance and repairs.

Serendipity

A few Polkies told me to keep the Nissan, since we've had it for 10 years and know that it is well-maintained. It looks like new and runs great.

However, just as I buy my audio gear myself, I'd rather buy my own car

AudioGenics

at least while you are looking for that "perfect" used condition daily driver Jeep Wrangler and until is it all set then keeping and using the Nissan is good advice

I think it is absolutely great that YOU are taking responsibility for YOUR own decision in what YOU want and how YOU want to spend YOUR money.

My son said the same thing. It was time that I let him make his own decisions
and (much to my worry and gray hairs) his own mistakes.

I will still OFFER my advice and NAG him probably for along time ( I hope....)

GOOD LUCK again and it will be FUN.

SAFETY FIRST ABOVE ALL !