1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler BUYERS GUIDE!

Hopefully this sheds a little bit of light on some of the common things to look out for when buying a 97-06 Wrangler. Please feel free to drop any questions down below in the comment section, or shoot me an email [e-mail]
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[@tomralls2766]

Got our 01 TJ in 02, 200,000+ miles. Ben to Canada and the gulf coast, Leadville , Co all over the Black Hills and Wyoming. Never let us down. Regular maintenance and use. Love this Jeep.

[@rolenrodes1371]

I've owned over 6 Jeeps and this is one of the Best Jeep Video's I've seen. So spot on....Love my Jeep.

[@BrianVonClick]

Wow. One of, if not the BEST, purely informative TJ videos online. It’s so incredibly refreshing that you’re so well spoken, clear, and honest. True vehicular enthusiasm. No BS, merch drop preludes, or cringe-inducing background music! Ahh. This was great. *So many “influencers” really give whatever they’re keen on a bad wrap because it comes across as “I’m here to help you buy into a culture like I did! Beg your bank for the largest loan you can get or refinance your house so you can get a 392 Rubicon, or a Raptor Bronco, like I’ve got in my spotless garage, and strap GoPro’s on it and some kitschy stickers and document how awesome your life is!” Just no. Grass Roots man. Much props.

[@MorFabIndustries]

Thanks man I appreciate the kind words!!

[@BrianVonClick]

You’re most welcome. Say, I wondered if you might weigh in on a subject I don’t think I’ve run across (maybe ever) concerning “classic” era Jeeps with 4.0’s. So, I’ve got a 1991 XJ Briarwood with a remanufactured/built 4.0 that’s being a real problem child in the realms of electronics and ignition. The entire harness and ect is being sorted out, but after all this time, my mechanic and I are in agreement to throw on a good carburetor as our Hail Mary pass to squelch some of our woes and in hopes to simplify things in terms of reliability. Any thoughts or suggestions on the matter?

[@BrianVonClick]

Mechanic Feedback (ex Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge Master Mechanic for 25+ years): “I’m having issues finding out why it has an ignition spark problem. It reads the crank sensor and it reads the cam sensor when I have the scan tool hooked up. It goes from zero RPM while I’m cranking it, will stay at zero, and then it will jump 200 RPM, and then go back to zero for a little bit, and then 100 RPM, and then back to zero. It’s possible it has the wrong flex plate on it or it got installed incorrectly or something to do with the cam sensor or the wiring.” **The new engine was installed at another shop, and couldn’t finish it (get it to fire) and this is where we are.

[@featheredcoyote5477]

My 2.5l is not useless. Cheaper than a side by side, have a plow on it, and runs up and down the road wonderfully. Happy to have my 2001 2.5.

[@MrRainrunner]

Same here! It runs great!

[@TheRedStateBlue]

my 2.5 goes places JKU Rubicons can't. anyone who says the 4.0 is better to have than the 2.5 is a complete idiot that doesn't know shit about shit. all the 4.0 gets you is more highway speed, which us 2.5l drivers don't give a shit about. the 2.5 is far superior to the 4.0 offroad.

[@nwmetalbug]

Yep me too.

[@timpenny5749]

Mine too .. with plow

[@TheNaturalust]

I totally don't understand the problem with synthetic oil. Doesn't it retain viscosity longer! I mean wtf?

[@johnlamont9026]

You might be right about the sloppy late model castings, but, have to politely disagree regarding the use of synthetics. I bought my 1994 4.0 jeep xj new in November of 1993, after proper break in with mineral oils it has been on a steady diet of factory filters with Mobil 1 and Amsoil. It currently has 424,000 miles without touching the bottom end

[@markiskool]

I picked up on his synthetic oil comments, too. I also noticed you mentioned Amzoil, which I run in my 2012 roadking. Are you recommending Amzoil for the 03 inline 6?

[@cinnreds18]

yea i have never (until today) heard of engine damage caused by synthetic oils lol

[@zanewilliams1905]

Have had an 01 sport since new. You are 100% correct on everything you said about them. Best and worst vehicle you can own. Wouldn't trade it for anything, although I don't drive it every day any more. Your videos have been helping me this month with some overdue maintenance. I try to do it all myself. Thanks for posting.

[@KenSiefert]

I did drive my ‘99 TJ round trip to California…5k mile round trip. It became, and still is, my personal Time Machine.

[@stephenhajovsky3971]

Thanks for taking the time to make that video! Great information! Explaining and showing where to look is extremely helpful (or will be).

[@vingooch]

Thanks so much. This video made me lose my itch to buy a jeep.

[@Nigriff]

Same, so I bought a Nissan Xterra Pro 4X 😂

[@donrunnels3100]

I have had my 2000 Sahara for 23 years.. 243,000 miles.. original drive train, never lifted, Automatic. Love it… my favorite car. Remember it’s a Jeep!!

[@tomowens1111]

I bought a 2006 in 2020 for 15000 it’s in very good condition with no rot anywhere. It all depends on where you live an where you buy the Jeep from I live in Arizona and bought mine in Mesa an am very happy with it

[@Kahoro1]

Man. You are he most familiar person with these vehicle you answer almost everything on a single video. Including also experience of owning driving and psychological part of it. Just traded one which requires I was almost hating the experience but you precisely described if and now I love it.

[@dennisbo5004]

One of the common issues with the 05 / 06 TJ LJ is the PCM. Mercedes redesigned the PCM which is vulnerable to the engine heat. Causes hard shifting to 2nd, dash lights blink, goes into limp mode and triggers the check engine light with false codes.

[@gofasters1]

I have 2004 TJ 4 cylinder automatic all stock except 31" tires and love it. I live in a dry climate and don't have any rust issues and it's been garaged all it's life. Thx for the video

[@kleetus88]

very very smart commentary. This video justifies my subscription to your channel and the money I send to YT every month for no ads. Thank you very much. With as much enthusiasm there is for Jeeps, these videos get made, but the same principles apply to any car really.

[@texmtnbiker]

I’ve owned various Jeeps for 30 years, currently have a 2004 Rubicon and 1984 CJ7. This is the tough love info every Jeep owner and potential owners need to hear. Thanks for throwing in….”BUT, they are awesome!” I might spend all morning fixing it, but that early evening drive with top down and doors off, I go from hating her in the morning to loving that wonderfully awful bucket of bolts.

[@markjames9205]

I’ve been running 10w 30 full synthetic oil for the last decade on my 04 4ltr. No problems.

[@MilitaryMobility]

Same here, we have an 04' since new running synthetic with almost 170k miles on it. Always been perfect. We also have 05 and 06 LJ's with almost 200k that are perfect too, zero issues.

[@yamhammer]

It was not the block casting that caused the piston slap it was an undersized piston. I would get my facts correct before putting this out there. Just a tip to not make the creator look stupid

[@thomasmcgovern2431]

Glad to see you Justin,very pleased that you are being honest with the masses,and my restoration is coming along,our weatherhete in Michigan is just like north east,Heinz 57 each day. Glad you have Been busy,keep it coming !!!!

[@timplessinger3670]

What I love about my jeep is that I can work on it myself! What I hate about my Jeep is that I have to! 😂

[@midnightboymc]

Hey man I dig this video thanks a million.!!!! SoCal/'00/2.5l/5 speed manual/ you gave me back that fire from buying it in the first place. I've been so stressed out with little things about my TJ but now thanks to you I feel proud of my cool crappy little Jeep lol... This is on point.💯💯💯✌🏼👍🏼🤙🏼🎯

[@jaysmith6013]

Finally shopping for my first wrangler. It will just be a fun side project, not a daily driver. This video was tremendously helpful

[@joyw.3999]

I’ve had my ‘98 23 of her 25 yrs. I love it. My sister whines - it’s so bumpy. It’s a Jeep. Run only Castrol oil in it . Not planning to get rid of her for a Loooong time

[@natesteiner5460]

I have 284,000 miles on the 4.0L in my 05 Rubicon. I have run synthetic the whole life of the vehicle (Rotella T6 5w40). I have never heard piston slap on startup. An occasional lifter is slow to pump up, but no worse than on any other American engine with some miles.

[@GoMcGregorGo]

Great video! Just bought a 2002 Sport with 125k miles and had to replace plenty of suspension parts, but drive train is great and no leaks. Thank you for all the great intel!!

[@xiangfu8743]

Thanks for sharing the knowledge! I’m thinking about purchasing a wrangler, this video is really helpful!

[@billmillmine3106]

Great video, so much information for a first time buyer. Getting on for my 16 year old son.

[@gregsousa7382]

This video really stands out as a source of some really great information. I especially appreciate the comments near the end of the video, confirming what I've felt about my TJ, but couldn't quite articulate: "cool, crappy vehicles" (also, my dog loves the Jeep, so there's that).

[@wwiegersma]

Hi, I bought a TJ Sahara from 2000 on copart in 2021 the rear axle was bent and some frame parts were rotten. during Covid (needed something to do) Shipped it over to the Netherlands and started taking it all apart. Some parts off the frame were rotten mostly the center part. I took all the rust parts off and replaced it with new steel. It was really nice to do all off this. Also fixed a lot off the engine it has 211000 miles on it but now it runs beautifull again. Thanks for your clear explanation.

[@goodtalker]

I had an 05 Rubi with an auto transmission. It was 8 years old when I bought it and had only one previous owner. A few years after I bought it I began having problems with the module that rules the transmission and engine. The dealer worked on it for sometime but told me replacement computers were very difficult to come by. I finally traded it in on a Tacoma...best truck I have ever had.

[@m13monroy]

Amazing i just find your channel by mistake. but Waoo i wish i seen this video before so much true real information great video man . i own a TJ 2001 i done lots of frame repairs new axels new suspension. metalcloak fender gmae changer . well i have invested and learn . but see in you a new jeep owner will learn so much from this. i learn the hard way. thanks for video great for jeep community 👍🏻 .. you are the doctor of Jeeps a genius 😎

[@douglasroberts2250]

If the frame is rusted, I wouldn't own it. I've owned mine 23 years and there's no excuse for allowing that to happen

[@randysurline4651]

Most people just use stuff up today, sad

[@scooterb3342]

Allow? Never lived up north I take it?

[@douglasroberts2250]

@@scooterb3342 yes, allow. I know all about it. If you’re going to drive it on salted roads in the brutal winter then you better get under there and wash it down right after. I know, pain in the ass. I do it or I won’t drive it on salted roads.

[@scooterb3342]

@@douglasroberts2250 That would be possible if I had a heated garage, and only drove a couple days a week

[@douglasroberts2250]

@@scooterb3342 no, you don’t need heat. You’re not deep cleaning in doing this.

[@jamiefarnsworth5584]

I own a TJ that i have to do the safety caps on. I love that you do these videos i hope to see more and more!!

[@offrodnolefmr7445]

Perfect video from a very reliable Jeep owner. I have had my 05 TJ since 05. It had 13k on it when I bought it and I’ve had all the mods done on it, but I haven’t abused it. It has 226,000 on it and I’m replacing the engine with a Golen 4.6 stroker. I kept having head gasket issues and now have it again so instead of having the head resurfaced…again, I decided to replace the engine. I would like to know your opinion on the stroker engines especially Golen. I don’t get the engine for another 2 months, so there’s still time.

[@tripleseven8361]

This was a really excellent review… Thank you! I had a brand new 1986 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade, which I drove for 11 years until it was stolen… I’ve had my ‘06 TJ since new as well… In spite of living in eastern Canada, where they like to put copious amounts of salt on the roads, the annual rust treatments, have kept 98% of the problems at bay! (FYI, I’ve never experienced any of the idiosyncratic problems, driving this vehicle) I did appreciate the comment about synthetic oil… I’ve always used conventional oil, but the last oil change was done at the Jeep dealership, and they insisted on using synthetic… I haven’t run too many miles on it, so it shouldn’t be a problem, but I will definitely swap the oil out with conventional as soon as possible…)

[@mrgiron53052]

I had a 2005 grand Cherokee. I loved that jeep.it had a 5.7 L V 8. I only had it a few months, but it was so fun to drive. I bought it from a mechanic shop up the street BE Smart Napa Repair shop. Stay away from them. The engine let go. I would love another one. I am looking.

[@1fsttoy]

Interesting what you said about the low mileage. I have a 2005 that I’ve owned since 2007 and it has 62800 miles on it. Runs great but starting to leak oil from the rear main seal and other minor issues.

[@danielm593]

Bought my TJ new in ‘99… still driving it! “If it doesn’t creak, squeak, or leak… then it isn’t a Jeep!” Damn I love that bucket 🤙

[@__7878]

fantastic video ! thorough discussion, real facts 👍

[@IslandUncharted]

Awesome video, thinking of buying one... thanks for all the well presented info!

[@aarongerman7857]

fantastic real life break down of how to purchase a TJ

[@Shultzchet]

Often times in highschool and during my summers between college I would drive a 1980 cj7. A little chilly in the middle of winter, but it didn't bother me for a 5 minute ride to school. Amazing for the summer. Only problem with it is the carburetor, fuel seems to escape when it's hot outside (also on those hot days the engine diesels a little bit after you take the key out) and then it doesn't start back up when you go to start it next and I've gotten stuck in town a few times because of that. I still have the truck I drive for college and it's a good reliable, and well driving vehicle. But I moved across the country for work with few items, and now I need a vehicle, I could have mine sent, but I had been thinking about a jeep tj for a while as an offroad toy, but now I see this as an opportunity to buy one to use for the next few years as a reliable vehicle, as well as a fun toy. Probably gonna keep it as an offroad toy even after I get my truck back. For me I think older Jeeps, or older vehicles in general, are great, because creature comforts are great and all but they aren't fun to drive, my parents have a fairly new Subaru Forrester with all the radio stuff, leather seats, backup cam, lane keep, vision and other collision sensors, adaptive cruise control, it's great and a nice vehicle, but I don't like the drive it. I want to get a nice jeep tj with a manual trans and no cameras or sensors, but also no blindspots because they didn't put small windows in the rear.

[@civicisaye1]

Rescued mine from a salvage yard for $1200. Solid frame, 250k miles. Valvetrain noise but no engine lights. Needs some love but got it at such a good price.

[@jeffallan3761]

I bought my 4th TJ, over 3 years ago. A 2004, Rubicon with 31K miles on it. They don't have electric lockers, like said here. Not a single issue, leak etc.. no OPDA issues like 05-06... was well taken care of. My prior 3 TJs were purchased new, but this used one is nicest. Love TJs!

[@brianraymer5542]

Mine does

[@jeremy8715]

I had to cut mine out and welding in new sheetmetal. What I did was, primer + paint, seam-sealed all welded butt-joints, paint, and Surface Shield on top. For the torq boxes, I cut out the bad part, seam-sealed all the joint on the new one, painted any scratches + the seam-sealed area, painted the butt-welds, and Surface Shield the on top of all that. 16:45 - 19:35 The best thing I did was to no longer drive it in Maine winters.

[@dg98adams]

Omg! As the 4th Jeep I’ve bought I knew several of the things to look for but learned a few more from the video… the latest purchase is an 01 TJ same yellow with the “rust hiders”. But frame has been repaired center & rear. Front looks good for now.

[@ericbauer4897]

Got an '03 Rubicon (purchased 10/02) in really good condition, 175k miles, wheeled but not too hard, and most of the receipts. Original owner. 😁

[@jkgkjgkijk]

I weld. I bought a jeep with all these issues. Plenty of cheap frame kits online. Two years of weekends that had no rain or I was not busy doing something else. The repairs are dirty, difficult and daisy chain into multiple new found issues. I'm talking rusted brake lines and captured body mounts. Gas tank skid plate that only goes in one way. Fuel hoses that only go in one way. Rusted fuel filter, etc. Like building a vehicle from scratch.

[@zxborg9681]

Solid video! Spot on advice, best and worst at the same time :-)

[@scottjgillishere]

Nice video… i have a 98 wrangler in bama,no rust with 221,000 miles .. 4.0 with a 3 speed automatic.. it runs great i absolutely love it.. also 3 in lift running 33x12.5 tires..

[@ms.karihart2983]

I’ve been looking for a TJ or LJ then info is amazing great detail and thx for sharing your experience

[@user-fp9yi4dn1m]

Thank you for all this valuable information 🙏

[@eosborne9w6]

Great content, keep it coming.

[@davidmitchell1480]

Thanks for the vid! I have an 01 tj that I love!

[@GoldenK9Campers]

Do you need to be concerned about the size of the tires on the jeep? Loved the video. Thanks for sharing !!

[@rashmedo]

That’s one amazing review. Well done

[@LAGuitarnetwork]

My dad has a ‘98 2.5 4 cylinder, it’s never had engine work done to it and has 185,000 on it. It’s been his daily since 2006 with basic maintenance. Now road tripping it 600 miles to Yosemite was a little taxing 😂

[@JEEPDadXJ]

I'm on my 2nd 2000 TJ SPORT. Both have been 5spd manual, 4.0L, current one just crossed 190k on it. I will say that it seems alot of people focus on RUBICONS but overlook the SPORT editions.

[@shilergelin7855]

Thanks for your input I am looking a 2000 jeep wrangler last time it was registered 2010 same one you have on this video and I heard I am looking a little harder in the frame

[@BlackTopBoondocker]

Great Video Justin. I will be doing a few Jeep videos soon to show off your skills. You can always tell if a repair is quality by inspecting the welds and my welds look great!!!. Rust will not go away on its own it only gets worse with time so do it now and Justin at MorFab is your man to get it done the right way.

[@washburnb1]

This is the best Jeep info I have ever seen.. And very well done.

[@WilliamVG]

I picked a nice triple lens endoscope and decided to check out my 2019 Jeep Wrangler which i picked up recently and guess what? Inside the frame is starting to rust, mostly at all the welds where the 2 seams are joined, and on the bottom surface. Previous owner didn't take the preventive steps or clean the dirt out but it's not too bad. Plan on pressure washing the inside with a high pressure 360 degree wand , then spray it with B'Laster Surface Shield.

[@SimonParr-qu1on]

Absolutely brilliant video, please make many more 😂

[@slav1north764]

I have a 1997 with the 2.5 and the 5 speed. 70 k on it. kept inside and it's extremely clean example. It ducks on the highway but it's an awesome michigan two tracker . They are out there.

[@willwilliams141]

Great video, thanks, Will

[@SmokinSober]

Gold!!! Awesome and informative! Saved.

[@Mike_E_44]

I have to agree with ALMOST everything you said about the TJ. I bought a 99 a year ago with a 2.5. Has 150,000 miles on it. I have never driven one with the 4.0 until recently. Now I wish I did have a bigger motor but this thing runs like a champ! I have 33s and has not been regeared. I have no problem with that untill I go on mountain highways. I will more than likely regear it but it is still the most fun vehicle I've ever driven. I have a very well built JK that I am selling D60s and 40s and I honestly like my little 4 banger TJ better. It is everything you said it is but I wouldn't "walk away" from the 2.5L just know what you are getting. Great video!!

[@TheArtOfCool]

I just bought my first 2000 jeep TJ 2.5 and it has 33’s. Was thinking of going down to 31’s. Wandering all over the place and feels like it’s getting pushed by wind all over the place. Are you taking yours on the freeway?

[@Mike_E_44]

@@TheArtOfCool I do but the speed limit is 70 here and I keep it around 60-65 in the right lane.

[@2times2is4]

Fantastic video. I have a 2003 and have replaced part of the frame. 194000 miles 😮and runs smoothly. Rides exactly as you said. Love it anyway.

[@reedcarpenter2994]

A little confused with him saying the 2.5L. That engine has been around longer than the 4.0. Most YJ have this engine. The 4.0 was designed from the 2.5L they share the exact same qualities. They are both inline. One is 4 cylinder and one is 6 and there is not a much difference in power. For sure not any difference with off roading. I think people talk about this without knowing the similarities and the history of the 2.5. The army Jeep’s would have loved that 2.5 lol.

[@Mike_E_44]

@@reedcarpenter2994 The inline 4 helped win the second world war. I Love mine!!

[@Lafly84]

Had an AX15 97 sport for 10 years - 3rd owner. Frame and body mounts finally rusted out and I had to put her down. Was driving tractor trailer at the time, so used spare Rotella T6 in it, and the 300k+ 4.0 ran like a freaking top. Miss it every day - driving a 2003 Yukon now lol.

[@mydamtrip7957]

Fantastic information!

[@jackshapaka3934]

Thank you for your time sir.

[@jplumb5591]

Great video. I’m looking at a 1998 2.5 with 120k on it today. In the north east area. Wish me luck 😎

[@chrisplace3024]

Welcome back

[@danphillips6606]

Gotta lot of great information.thanks

[@user-vq8dg6cf4t]

Spot on assessment. I have an 04 LJ. Bought used in 2021. They are a great second vehicle. I would not want to daily. Did that for 9 years with a 95 YJ I bought in 99. You are a little harsh on the YJ though lol. Although it did ride like a stagecoach with the leaf springs.

[@nwmetalbug]

Agree with most of what you said but the part about the 2.5L. I have a 97 2.5 with 33s 2 1/5 lift and its a great driving rig. Not great on the highway but I have a Vette for that purpose.

[@bobwallace4198]

Thanks so much, very informative and a good check popint to buy one of the Jeeps bob

[@edwardray8499]

Excellent video

[@toddwallace]

Great video bro.

[@RadioReprised]

I have a 06 Rubicon Unlimited 6-speed LJ with 44K original miles and about 5K in ''Goodies''. That just means I use it for what it's good at and not to run around Town! No rust in the Desert!

[@queensapphire7717]

I looked at a 2006 with 54k miles, the frame had that rubber coating on it, I walked away, ended up buying a 2010 Rubicon with 58k miles, spotless, no rust, so far only issue was a frozen lug nut and the EGR valve, which was a simple fix I did myself.

[@ZoneTelevision]

The TJ is the last real Jeep. I’m sick and tired of the underserved hate the YJ gets. It’s completely unfair. I happen to like the square lights. It’s like their from an alternate timeline in history.

[@jerryhoward7910]

Totally agree. I have a 91 and a 95. Love them. Both have 4.0 6 cyl. No better vehicles. Got an 05 same engine thats right there with them. Love em all. Got an 81 wagoneer too. Wifey has 2 jeeps too!

[@toddshook1765]

Thanks for the great info. You described the Jeep like having a boat. Hihi. Been looking for a rig for Overlanding adventures. Thinking maybe towards 1980s Bronco or Toyota 4x4. But will not rule out the Wrangler.

[@grasscutter1963]

Great video 👍👍

[@ericlecko]

Thanks for the video

[@shesadiyergarage8506]

Great video!!! Thank you!!

[@sasukecruz2000]

wow i finally know what that noise is every time i start it up. gonna start using conventional oil instead of synthetic… made that mistake this past oil change.

[@timluffman6440]

Justin is the man. 😎

[@tonybuxton5154]

...got a 2005 X...I6....6spd...on 35's w/3.07's.....best vehicle i've ever owned....has close to 200K miles....no leaks....burns NO oil!....couple of issues i'v head : OPDA, front pinion seal, bushings, a/c control panel, clockspring, water pump, rad....that's about it....getting ready to replace the clutch....cheers!

[@marcgannello2923]

I been driving my 2004 jeep wrangler unlimited for 18 years. Bought it 2 years old. Over the 18 years used plenty of fluid film. And kept up blowing out the frame.with my air compressor.

[@leakingcavity]

Haha I love the comment at the end about it being the best and worst vehicle you will ever own. That's the truth 10 times over. Awesome video

[@armysnoopy1562]

What is the best year for the wrangler , Counting all years 2006 and back to the first generation ? Thanks

[@aleksandarkrgovic8872]

Great video, I see you do not like 2.4 motor 4 cilynder. The one that is the most economic though. Is there any way to down power 4.0 in order to get better fuel efficiency around 22 mpg? Fuel prices in Europe are terrible ..

[@Redslotman1]

Great video

[@CantKillMe]

them 4.0L love diesel oil but nice job on this keep it up but there just like my GEO tracker they have a love and hate rulership lol

[@wemsky]

My jeep frame looks alright from the outside but it has a ton of rust inside of it and has expanding foam sprayed all up in there.

[@DanielStrong-mk1kk]

Thanks for all the information, Im assuming the rot comes from rust? Also what would u say an 04 with 97,000 miles should cost.

[@brianandglendaharkin9457]

Of roading in mud an not hosing it out an treating it with protection treatment I always blow my rails out with compressed air to keep it clean of rubbish .👍🏻🇦🇺💯⛽️

[@johnholladay4187]

Can the heat/ac controls for the 2000+ models be used in a 1998 model Tj?

[@tedc6694]

I inherited 2004 sport with about 50k (sat in garage due to dad's dui). Very little surface rust on frame. Should I treat it with that crap that turns rust to paintable metal or sand it to bare and repaint? Also, has 4 spd auto. How hard would it be to hang a clutch? I waaay prefer manual transmissions. Big money? Guessing value at 10-13k. It's kinda growing on me. Might keep it

[@jackpalczynski7884]

Good information. I know the frames were changed to add bottom drain holes at some point. I don't know if it was 03 or 05 but that solved a ton of problems where earlier frames, water got in and never got out. I had to laugh that these ride the worst of any vehicle. Sorry, but wrong. Drive a YJ then a TJ back to back. I did when I bought my TJ and still owned my YJ. The YJ at 50 on the highway felt like I was going 120 and that the whole thing was built from old roller coaster parts. The TJ is better and the JK is better still. And of course, the JKU (4 door) with the longer wheelbase is way better. Still 1970's dump truck ride but you can go faster. Dealers are such turds doing the rubber undercoating. I looked at a low mileage 17 JKU Rubicon and it seemed great. Then I got on my back under it and it was all undercoated recently. I could see where they missed spots and it was solid, deep rust. I told them "If you didn't undercoat it, I'd probably give you a deposit. As is, unless you took it all off, I have no interest". We have a TJ specialty dealer nearby and they rubber undercoat everything. I visited them exactly once. Nope.