The Rubicon is difficult to ignore for its out-of-the-box off-road capability. Jeep hit the nail on the head, especially considering its need to satisfy so many requirements in a vehicle. The front and rear lockers, 4:1 transfer case, and Dana 44 axles are the stars of this model. (Jeep is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC)
Notable Special Editions
Of the numerous special edition models, a few stand out, such as the Golden Eagle and Willys editions. The Golden Eagle, available in 2006, paid homage to the Golden Eagle trim line found in the CJ series that ran in the late 1970s. The Golden Eagle featured special colors, exclusive interior trim and seats, and unique decaling. The 30-inch tire group and special gold-trimmed alloy wheels completed the package.
The Willys edition, available in the 2004 and 2005 model years, was a throwback to Jeep’s military days of the MB and M38. This model featured army green paint with special military-look decals. Camouflage seats and special interior accents made this Jeep a favorite for some people. Those who attend Jeep shows and events can find groups of Willys owners sticking together.
The Golden Eagle TJ pays tribute to the beloved CJ model from the late 1970s. Special exterior appearance features included decals and gold-accented wheels, along with interior details that make this rare TJ a sought-after model in the used market.
The Willys model of the TJ featured military styling and decals. The green color and basic utility look made this Jeep a favorite of some Jeep owners. At Jeep shows, the Willys models are often arranged together to show them off as a group. These Willys TJs are on display at the PA Jeeps All Breeds Annual Jeep Show in York, Pennsylvania.
Other Special Editions
Some editions were very limited and were only available for a single year or part year. Many offered special decaling, paint, and interior trim on a standard TJ base. With the exception of the Rubicon, most special editions were nothing more than visual features. Models include: 60th Anniversary Edition, 65th Anniversary Edition, Apex Edition, Columbia Edition, Freedom Edition, Rocky Mountain Edition, Sahara Edition Unlimited Rubicon, and Tomb Raider Edition.
Why Build and Modify a TJ?
Shortly after the TJ was released, it became immediately apparent that Jeep did something correct. In fact, Jeep hit the nail on the head; the TJ was superior off-road. It seemed that aftermarket parts for the CJ and YJ gave way to the TJ overnight. Companies were quick to release all kinds of items for the new model. New TJ owners flooded Jeep events and trails, wanting to put the new Jeep to the test.
In its stock form, the TJ is rather capable, but its limits can be reached rather quickly, even on moderate trails. This is because of its limited ground clearance and suspension travel. This sounds funny to say because the TJ had more ground clearance and suspension travel than almost any other vehicle available at the time. Jeep always tends to be conservative with its offerings because it needs to make the Wrangler appeal to everyone, since it’s generally known that most Wranglers are never used off-road. In addition to the general appeal, safety standards need to be met as does driving comfort and so on. Many consider the “off the lot” version of the Wrangler just a template ready for customization.
Luckily, the TJ’s off-road performance can be drastically improved without much effort or expense. The simplest and least expensive method can consist of a 2-inch spacer kit and 31- to 32-inch mud-type tires mounted to stock wheels, which will result in about an extra 3 inches of ground clearance at the center skid plate. This simple lift method combined with the larger, better-designed tires for off-road will increase performance so dramatically that many owners go this route and never look back.
While the simple lift method is cheap and effective, it doesn’t provide the performance or clearance that most Jeep owners (who actually use their Jeeps off-road) desire. Interestingly, a Jeep owner can perform most modifications to the TJ in his or her own garage. The simplistic nature of the Jeep lends itself well to the do-it-yourself crowd. In this book, I explore so many topics that most folks can do at home with perhaps only a slight “step above” set of garage tools.
At the time of this writing, it has been 10 years since the last TJ rolled off the line. It made way for the Wrangler JK, a more refined and improved successor to the TJ that was the first removable-top Jeep available in a four-door version. The JK retained the similar but improved Quadra Link coil suspension that worked so well in the TJ. In addition to the JK, the entire Jeep community is waiting anxiously for the release of the successor to the JK, the Wrangler JL. The Wrangler JL is an evolutionary change to the line rather than the revolution that was experienced from TJ to JK.
A TJ fording some nearly frozen water on a winter trail run at Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) in Pennsylvania. The TJ, even in a modest near-stock form, is very capable on a variety of terrains.
The Wrangler JK arrived in 2007 and established dominance quickly, as did the TJ in 1997. The JK Wrangler Unlimited offered a never-before-available four doors that brought new Jeep owners to the community who may never have considered a two-door Jeep.
Lower Cost of Entry
Now that the TJ has moved into classic Jeep status, finding one at a reasonable price for a build and modify project is a reality. With such good performance right out of the box and an inexpensive price tag, finding extra funds for modifications might be more reasonable than buying a JK or JL. The aftermarket support for the TJ is not what it was in the TJ’s prime, but many reputable companies still make and develop products for the TJ.
Finding Your Project
If you don’t already own a Jeep and are looking for a TJ to modify and take off-road, there are some things to look for. This is a simple list and doesn’t dig extensively into each topic. In the following chapters, these topics are dealt with more thoroughly.
Rust
Compared to older Jeep models, rust is not nearly as problematic on TJ Jeeps but can still be a problem in certain areas of the United States. A TJ that spent its life in areas that have harsh winters and road salt may exhibit major or minor rust issues, especially if the Jeep was neglected. Minor body rust or frame surface rust is common and may not be a cause for concern. Minor body rust is common at the bottom of the side rockers, fenders, and rear corners. This is often thanks to road cinders and stones thrown up from the tires.
Depending on your skill level, buying a basket-case Jeep can be a nightmare. These Jeeps may come at a low price tag but finding all the parts may significantly increase the cost before any real work is started. On the other hand, a parts Jeep may have the necessary components for an already started project.
Rust is part of life, especially for those Jeep owners who live in areas that experience winter weather. Body rust can occur nearly anywhere on a TJ, but it is most often seen where the steel is welded together. Fixing light rust will keep it from spreading and creating a larger problem.
Major rust can be a cause to stay clear of a particular Jeep. The TJ is well known for major frame rust issues behind the rear wheels. Very often, the frame will rust from inside out, hiding the severity until it pokes through.