Old vs New: Here’s Why Everyone Is Wrong About New Jeeps! Slip Test & Off-Road Challenge

[@spuddoright1970]

As someone who was a child in the back of a CJ-7 in the mountains of Colorado in the late 70s, I'll tell you we didn't get cold from Dad having to get out and lock in the hubs. He was smart enough to have the hubs already locked in whenever we left home in bad weather. We were still cold though; that's because the stock heater was garbage. I still have the original sales papers for that Jeep. V-8 power, auto trans, hard-top, all for about 5k. We never got stuck in that Jeep.

[@montechie]

As kids, my family would've been kept warm because we'd be out pushing.

[@timmikep1978]

It is important to be prepared!

[@jayhiggins5239]

You need to be more specific about that $5k and the year. Due to inflation that could be $25k or $40k. The 70s weren't great for economic stability.

[@spuddoright1970]

​@@jayhiggins5239 I would have to do some digging to find the paperwork so you could do your analysis. Most people get it, things are relative. I think the real point is that the Jeeps from back then have a higher chance of still being on the road 45 years later than any modern Jeeps have of being on the road 45 years from now because of simplicity.

[@vipercam1785]

That's right it was not chinese made computerized crap that would break and leave you stranded in the mountain

[@AetherLemmie]

I get your perspective , but the point most other people make is also very clear in this video. The old Jeep is still running :)

[@pokerplayawill]

Agreed 🤣 They should repeat this test in 60 years and see how they both fair.

[@pault7977]

I had the same thought. Let's see how the Compass does 60 yrs from now.

[@markcoopers1930]

*This* old Jeep is still running

[@khakiswag]

What’s your point? Any machine will run forever as long as you constantly fix what breaks.

[@fritty9927]

@@khakiswagbut at what cost?

[@Adam-nv9zo]

The Compass, although pretty good off-road, will be long gone and filling junkyards, and the old jeep will still be running and functioning as intended for as long as it is serviced.

[@NickTarterOKC]

It'll be in a junk yard probably.

[@AHungryHunky]

Maybe it's where I live, but I see plenty of these old CJs just rotting in fields and things too, stripped of anything worth taking to keep the handful still driving going.

[@97I30T]

@@AHungryHunky Yeah, it's just survivorship bias. For every nice CJ still on the road today, there's probably at least a dozen rotting away in a field somewhere or gone entirely.

[@V8AmericanMuscleCar]

True, but the CJ is an old vehicle. In 40 years, this Compass will only be seen in pictures.

[@jerrymcgeorge4117]

In 15 years you won’t be able to get parts for a Compass.

[@Jay-bw3fl]

These slip tests really are undeniable examples of 4x4 systems. Glad you guys do them

[@Android.Paranormal]

Yeah they are great! No AWD or 4WD should be reviewed without it.

[@Jay-bw3fl]

@Helicopter Dad! well now you don’t need to know tricks they work lol

[@vipercam1785]

Does that mean that chinese are smarter. The computer that controls that four-wheel drive was designed and manufactured in china.

[@Jay-bw3fl]

@@vipercam1785 I wouldn’t make a broad generalization about the intelligence of a country based off of a 4 wheel drive system myself. Lol

[@eca7773]

​@@vipercam1785I am sure that while the computer is built in China, the testing and fine tuning is done by Jeep in the USA.

[@Wheelman1966]

That's great.. No doubt the new Jeep is better in some ways today. But the CJ has lost little to nothing over the years. The new Jeep? I'll give it 5 to 10 years of full functionality.

[@mizinoinovermyhead.7523]

For every good condition CJ there are 10 that rusted into oblivion. This one was only saved due to its owner or one of its owners along the line having a nostalgia for it. The Compass will be the same. Vast majority of them rust out in junk yards, while one or two end up in tests like this in 50 years with some person in the comments going "Yeah I'll give that floating electric thing 5 or 10 years, but that compass hasn't lost a step". Its survivor bias.

[@trackexplore]

I still prefer the old school 4x4. All the new 4x4's have way to many electronics. Even our 2020 gladiator rubicon has to many electronics to my liking. I prefer my TJ for off roading. try and fix something electronic when remote overlanding. With old school, mechanical rigs, you have more chance to fix it or patch things to a certain level that you can still drive.

[@itgoesfast2722]

Love these slip tests! Come back in 60 years and retest the 2023 Jeep and see how it does. LOL 😆

[@daveton9033]

All car will be electric or maybe even fusion power! but we can sent you back to the past😅🤣😂

[@itgoesfast2722]

@@daveton9033 not sure what you are saying and how it applies to my comment.

[@daveton9033]

@@itgoesfast2722 : sense of humor is all you need, have a great day! 😂🤣😅

[@kcp7042]

As long as the computer doesn’t crap out on the awd/4wd system (like that awd dodge you had not long ago) yes, new systems are better. My thing is, can I take it apart and work on it in my driveway without a mechanical/computer engineering degree. The compass….. no. The CJ….. YES!!

[@LinusScrubTips]

If you add lockers that CJ would shred the compass on any terrain.

[@Offshore1977]

Or even a limited slip

[@daveharness70]

It would shred it as is with appropriate driving methods for the vehicle.

[@JussimirPasold]

Yeah you can add a locker to the CJ pretty inexpensively, the Compass doesn’t even have a aftermarket locker option

[@wompa70]

I think 2005-2015 technologies are the sweet spot. Traction control systems were decently effective and the interiors weren't infested with screens and touch sensitive panels. I'm not talking about the vehicles themselves, mind you. Though I do absolutely love my 2018 Frontier Pro-4X.

[@brandonruhl1639]

God I do miss my 2015 Jeep Patriot. It’s 4wd was pretty good but sometimes it would engage right as your going over ice on the road and then it would kick the back end out. It was really good in deep snow doing better than my Ram 1500 in 4x4 with falken all terrain tires

[@jameseroh6544]

I bought my 3rd Jeep last month. My first was a 1963 Willy's Wagoneer, bought in 1982. The second is a 1996 Grand Cherokee Laredo. My newest is a 2023 Wrangler Unlimited Sport S Altitude. In 60 years the technology has changed dramatically. But the more gentrified models came standard with things like doors and a roof. The 3 Ram pickups my wife and I have bought in the past 10 years. Came standard with a/c and a radio too! But the Wrangler does come standard with a roll cage, unlike the gentrified models and the pickups.

[@rrrandommman]

Very fair comparison, and you could always add an auto locker or air locker(s) to the CJ, but it's a very old model, those leaf springs, especially in an unladen car, strangle the articulation potential of the dual solid axles, also a more modern solid axle car might have things like air con and a quieter interior. Glad to see a real and fair example of both, cheers TFL, keep up the excellent work.

[@davidhillbrand2302]

The older solid axle rigs had pretty good articulation so you rarely lifted a tire. Because of this, you usually had traction at one or more tires. Technology is great, but not foolproof! Had an FJ62 Landcruiser with open difs and it was extreamly capable still!

[@nathanielmoore87]

I love that you guys do these comparisons. With 60 years between the 2, it's no surprise to me that a modern mall crawler Jeep can best a stock CJ5 in the traction department. I know the results would probably be similar, but I'd like to see a 2A tackle the course sometime.

[@BigRedtheGinger]

Just opened the video. My assumption is that the 61 CJ5 is open diff with no LSD or lockers and will fail unlike newer electronically controlled vehicles.

[@1985_Honda_CRX_Si]

The old one still has more travel (Both formidable offroaders)

[@automotive474]

"You have to go outside. Imagine if it was snowing". This tells you everything you need to know about this guy.

[@capachin]

Now the REAL test Tommy would be to grab that Trail Hawk and do the test when it is 61 years old!! My guess is the "Magic Systems" would not be so helpful 61 years from now!

[@robsolf]

Another thing about those wheel lockers: If you lived in the rust belt, those wheel lockers would eventually get corroded and nearly impossible to turn in just a few years. Also, they'd have issues much like you have when trying to engage 4WD inside the cabin; you may have to rotate the wheel a bit so the lock can slip into place. Imagine being stuck, being unable to move and having this problem...

[@RKmndo]

"Wheel lockers"? They're called "locking hubs". They engage just fine if you turn them, then climb in, and ease into driving in 4WD. Many people just locked them in Autumn and unlocked them in Spring. A CJ7 could be shifted from 2H to 4H on the fly if the hubs were locked.

[@blueman5924]

Everything fails if not properly maintained according to the conditions endured. period.

[@diesel6916]

I have had locking hubs in the north east for 20+ years and they always have worked

[@robsolf]

My dad's 70's F250 sat outside always. And I always got recruited to lock the hubs before he'd plow our driveway. And no they wouldn't always torque to locking position. Some "subtlety" was necessary at times.

[@robsolf]

@@blueman5924 I love engineers.

[@PlayWaves1]

You can leave the hubs locked when in 2wd so you don't have to get out. It's a smart thing to do in winter. Only thing that'll happen is you'll get a little worse fuel economy.

[@MontysMotos]

I think a big part of the draw towards older 4x4's is that they are very easy to modify. You can take that CJ5 and have any engine, lift, axles, lockers, tires and it's going to be affordable and you won't need to involve any professionals per se. You can do all those things to a new vehicle, but it will be very expensive and it will complain every step of the way. Personally, I prefer the new stuff, it's better and more convenient right out of the gate.

[@gerardtrigo380]

The 4.27 gear ratios on the differentials also helped with power transfer. I had a 66 CJ with locking rear differential, and a 4 speed manual. Also by then they had gotten rid of the separate levers for 4 wheel drive and low range. I had one lever. Full forward was 4x4 WDH, one notch back was 2WD High, Next notch was Transfer case neutral and full back was 4 X 4 WDL. It also went into gears a lot easier and smoother than yours. BTW the locking hubs was an option, most standard Jeeps at the time had the front hubs fully locked all the time. You were turning the front differential all the time, but it was not locked to the engine via the transfer case. Most people opted for the hubs to improve fuel economy and reduce drivetrain wear.

[@RonnyLee3RD]

I believe the argument is settled by the fact that the 4wd still works in a jeep that was built in the 60s. That compass will be in a junkyard within the next 15 years.

[@cunawarit]

I think the Compass should be retested in 50 years time to see how well it does. I can’t wait to watch that video when I’m deep into my 90s!

[@petervandoren2984]

Thanks Tommy. It was fun to see what was involved in driving the old CJ5. My parents had a 1986 Jeep Wagoneer with Quadratrac. The original "automatic" 4 wheel drive system. Once the jeep sensed a wheel slipping, it would kick into 4-WD. It was a fun jeep and the first 4x4 I got to drive.

[@MOBGaming4]

Ive got a 20 TH Compass with a 2in lift and it goes everywhere! I love that thing lol

[@AHungryHunky]

Does it need a lift? I parked my Rene next to a Compass TH and was surprised at how much clearance it appears to have. My Renegade Latitude could use another inch or two, bring it's 8" to 9" but I have only had clearance issues with it twice.

[@Ace0Spades17]

Well as a family with 7 jeeps. 1- 96 TJ, 3- CJ5s (one will never drive again and is a parts jeep and 2 that are 69s and 151 cereal numbers apart), 1- JL (don’t know the year), 1- Scrambler (don’t know the year), and 1- 23 Gladiator. I’ve grown up in the old Jeeps and appreciate the new ones. I just find my 69 CJ5 is more fun than the new ones. We break stuff on the Gladiator more often than the older ones but the JL hasn’t broken yet. I feel like I have more control in my CJ5 with my 2Low and manual. You can customize it more to how you want either by making or buying parts compared to new. Really it just comes down to how you like to drive. Also I understand that you’re comparing the stock versions but you’re forgetting how much the older Jeeps are modified to have lockers and other stuff like that just to make it easier. I have no lockers and you can do stuff without you usually need lockers to do. It more comes down to skill and knowing your vehicle. The older ones all drive a little differently and you have to learn your jeep to do stuff well.

[@jerrymcgeorge4117]

The difference is the CJ is still going 50+ years on, but in 50 years the other stuff will be microwaves, refrigerators, etc. The CJ will probably still be going then, too.

[@AHungryHunky]

The Compass is an impressive machine, I am glad this generation isnt as cynical as the outgoing one and its clear Jeep's engineers really put the work in to make it as capable as possible given the drivetrain and suspension limitations. Definitely a good pick if your interests involve getting to a trailhead or that one remote campsite. No doubt with some modifications the CJ will outpreform, and most modern 4x4s will do better even stock, but for something you actually have to live with on a daily basis, the Compass is a compelling package on paper. One thing I noticed, I do not like the location nor selector style of the terrain management system. Seems like it would be easy to accidentally bump by a passenger and unexpectedly toss you into Snow. Not terrible, but certainly alarming if you are not expecting it. I had someone accidentally knock my Renegade, a few days after I bought it, into Manual mode while i was trying to accelerate to highway speeds from a stop. A momentary "WTF" situation when I hit 5k RPMs in 2nd until my brain pieced it together. I much prefer the dash mounted rotary dial I have in the Rene with the push buttons to "lock" it in 4x4 without putting it in a particular drive mode.

[@JeremyHoutgoogleplus]

Lol it’s about simplicity to work on yourself and lack of tech. Throw in lockers call it a day. Also about real metal and no plastics. No one is saying open open is better than lsd or break diffs

[@theaveragewoodsman6002]

Unless, like me, you don't enjoy working on vehicles.

[@MegaGeorge1948]

You put lockers in the CJ5 and it would be almost unstoppable.

[@joezephyr]

Fabulous! This is why we watch TFL. Neither Doug, nor Alex or any of the others do anything like this!

[@bmwloco]

$8k. That's what I paid for a new 1989 Subaru Justy 4x4 manual. It was tenacious, ran like a scalded weasel and got 38mpg. Seated 4. Most people do not go off road. It was like a skier on snow too. Sure wish someone sold something like that. And then real trucks - with full size beds. Miss those too.

[@benjaminbuschi284]

Suzuki sx4 is probably the last car sold in America with that formula.

[@bmwloco]

@@benjaminbuschi284 Yup, Owned a Samurai and it's bigger brother, only paid $99 for those. Needed valve cover gaskets. I looked really hard at the SX4s... got a Mercedes Mommy wagon for $2300... live in Appalachia. If it snows, wait a day. Benz is pretty good in snow with winter mode selected.

[@benjaminbuschi284]

@@bmwloco I went and bought a JDM 4x4 3 years ago because I wanted a car that could actually fit down the trails here in the northeast. Modern 4x4s are so wide, it makes actually running any off-road trails difficult.

[@RKmndo]

​@@benjaminbuschi284 What formula? Subaru Crosstrek is still sold with a manual trans. 2024 redesign will mean the end of the manual trans in that though. Jeep Compass and Renegade may still be offered with manual trans.

[@roderickhance2088]

Definitely a cool comparison to show just how far we’ve come in vehicle technology….however I’d love to know how well the compass functions when it’s 60 years old compared the the CJ…lol can’t deny how awesome new 4wd systems are, but the old ones are just plain fun. Great video!

[@robsolf]

From the looks of the CJ, it has spent its existence as a toy. I say that because as a child in the 70's, I remember when vehicles in the rust belt would start rusting just a few years from new. Some were worse than others(the Vega, for example), but that was inevitable in any vehicle. The exterior of this CJ is pretty solid, so it's either been completely redone a few times over, or it's a toy. So I think it has sat in the garage until its owner decides to do some offroading, they go do it, wash it up, and put it back in the garage. I think people would be surprised how long newer vehicles could last if used like that. The key factor would probably be how salty the air is where they live. I think we'd probably all agree that the electronics and their exposure to moisture would be the determining factor. But this is always the case. I doubt that CJ is still using its original solenoid.

[@roderickhance2088]

@@robsolf very valid point, but my comment was in fact more toward the vast amount of computers used in cars to control all these systems now, not just the raw materials used to make the vehicle. I’m also not knocking new technology, just making a point.

[@ajediknight]

@@robsolf I grew up in the desert. 100 year old cars sitting in a field remain cancer free. Paint fades, and patina are common. this could be a desert truck with a new-ish paint job.

[@robsolf]

@@ajediknight Could be true. But why do we assume that a 2023 vehicle could be left in the sun for 50 years and not run? None of us are the engineers that could work that out.

[@robsolf]

​@@roderickhance2088 I agree completely!

[@ddelv1601]

My compact tractor is a more modern "car" than that old Jeep, and more luxurious. You can engage 4x4 from the seat, and it has a rear locking diff. Plus, it has a tilt steering wheel! 😂 I'm sure when that Jeep was new, all the old guys out west were going on and on about how their horse was better option for getting around than that new fangled jeep.

[@dorothypeper1578]

with some new MT tires that old CJ would be much better off-road! It still killed it though!

[@mikesters3532]

Holy crap! Every passing year you are morphing into your father!

[@patriciachipi6133]

Great video. It’s helpful to see it in the 4x4 slip test first and then on terrain to understand AWD and 4x4. Thank you!

[@richardabernathy6242]

The manual locking hubs and manual 4 wheel shifter are far more reliable than the electronic ones. Just ask anyone who uses vehicles in a off road work situation

[@montanaior7714]

If you keep the CJ's front hubs locked like in winter its shift on the fly no need to get out. Todays Wrangler has the front axle and driveshaft spinning at all times now so that would be the same.

[@jediguy634]

Regardless if your team Jeep or team Bronco, the competition between the two makes us all winners. Glad to see the Compass get some upgrades and ditch that Tigershark from the older Trailhawk.

[@wesalexander2693]

Great video, Tommy! Fascinating to see old school vs. new tech. That old CJ is amazing in many respects, but compared to the new Compass, it sure is basic! It does what it was designed to do given the technology of its day. It sure is high and narrow! It probably has better approach/departure and breakover angles than a new Wrangler! Now if you could just put a 392 in it...

[@hooptietime4427]

I love these videos. You guys are constantly killing it with great content & useful information.

[@bobvedder2451]

One of tne first mods people did on the old jeeps was to put lockers in, lunch box lockers, air lockers, and so forth.

[@gureno19]

*Laughs in factory twin locked HJ61*

[@mrsteve4313]

I totally get your point and that Compass can go a lot of places off road that most viewers wouldn't think it would but with live axles, I'd still take the 61 off road over the Compass. But I'd take the Compass as an off road/daily driver! Lol

[@robertivie5674]

Now try a real world test, muddy and icy partially melted dirt road surface on 20 degree slope. Good luck with modern all-wheel drive. You won't go any where up that hill, where as that CJ-5 would probably climb right up it. My experience was with a 2007 Toyota Rav4. It wouldn't go more than 10 feet up the hill before the traction control stopped it in it's tracks. The reason is that as soon as traction control engages, none of your wheels will spin enough to power up the hill. BTW: Who talks about open-diff four-wheel drive units. They are crap.

[@JeanPernicia]

I think that the success of either vehicle depends on its intended usage and the driver's mindset. The old Jeep can truly deliver as long as the driver anticipates and plan ahead. The new one is definitely more forgiving in slippery and relatively flat terrain. For very remote places the old one is perfect due to the absence of electronics.

[@henrikhkarpynskyi8712]

In 60 years we will be riding horses in order to meet emission requirements and horse will actually outperform 60 year old compass on this offroad course. :)

[@stephenmitchell7915]

I can remember back in '79 up in Evergreen CO I was going uphill to pick up a carpool rider before work. I hit a patch of ice in my J10. I slid backwards, down hill, headed for a cliff. Brakes locked, kept sliding. Down into 2nd, kept sliding. 1st was not synchro. I finally slammed it into reverse and regained control. The truck would probably have survived going off a cliff, but I don't think I would have! Ironically, the lightweight little Subaru, I swear had a beer can logo under its paint job, that the carpooler owned, had no problems whatsoever.

[@kentsmith5672]

Funny I ran into this video today. I just got home from testing some new mud/snow tires on my 82 CJ7. The tires I replaced looked very similar to the tires on the yellow CJ in the video. My Jeep has Detroit Trutrak limited slips in both diffs. I was on a rough dirt road and hit about 5 inches of snow. I finally lost traction in 2 wheel on about a 10-15% grade. It was 22 degrees outside. Once my frail 56 year old body got out locked the hubs in I was happy to know that they were actually engaged. Once back in the Jeep I had to wrestle the 4 wheel lever back one notch, again happily knowing I was truly in 4 wheel drive. I stabbed it into first gear, gave her a nudge of gas, and let the clutch out and easily climbed the hill. Thankfully, I survived the harrowing experience of having to be outdoors for 45 seconds to lock the hubs, which emboldened me to I stopped again and get out and play fetch with the pups and have a beer. I have no idea if a new Compass could have made it where I went today. If it could, great! But, I have a machine that I upgraded cheaply , I know what mode it's truly in, I'm the computer making it happen, and that makes me happy.

[@petemiller519]

Junior, those 4x4 sticks will always work on that old Jeep, unlike the buttons energizing rusted solenoids on the new car. Sorry if I sound biased, but I love old Jeeps, they had a huge impact in WW2, and I feel they should be respected due to their contribution. By the way, that Jeep is older than your dad. By the way way, I only had to walk 3 miles to school, with a leather back pack on my back. Cheers.

[@ToolsInAction4u]

Can you get your buddy and his 2001 4runner on the slip test?! They had the early Atrac and I think it could do this test.

[@marcoshd27]

Everyone is losing knowledge how to drive offroad. The new vehicles are very competent in comparison, but if you can master terrain reading and know how to use your open diffs vehicle you will get some impressive results. And a lot of joy. I would not trade my 1988 Land Rover Ninety or my 1987 Range Rover for any of the new models

[@seanwatson3790]

I have a Cherokee trailhawk I off road. And this is how I feel about people whose first off roader is a jl Rubicon 4 door with a 3 inch lift and 37 inch mud tires. Those people have no idea how to drive because of how good that thing is off road... 0 skill involved

[@AHungryHunky]

​​​@@seanwatson3790 Don't worry, some dude who runs light/moderate trails you could do in a 2WD pickup with 40s and an LED enhanced grumper grill on his jeep isgoing to come along and tell you you don't take your Cherokee off-road because it's crossover and will break instantly. I swear it's the XJ all over again, in 20 years people will look back at these Jeep crossovers and go "Yeah those where pretty cool"

[@gureno19]

​@@AHungryHunkythere is not a hope in hell that any of the modern Cherokee's will be around in any form or capacity in 20 years 😂.

[@AHungryHunky]

@@gureno19 Didn't say they would be around, I said people would look back. But I'm willing to bet they still will be around, maybe not in numbers but around yet, if you can find running examples of Ford Pintos I don't see why a few Cherokees might not remain. I live in a rust state so no car lasts 20+ years here anyway and if they are 20 they are either garage queens or clapped.

[@gureno19]

@@AHungryHunky honestly, I'd be surprised...Fiat Chrysler almost intentionally do such a bad job these days that even 10+ years is hard with alot of their platforms. The TJ and XJ will still be kicking around though 🤣

[@wallykingsborough5811]

Everything you do makes me want the '60s CJ even more

[@dainwilson4523]

Install a locker and have off road tires and that CJ would conquer all. It is still better as is in my opinion.

[@PGRubA]

It was a pretty fair comparison. I own a JKU and a CJ7, the difference to me is that I have no qualms about just flooring the gas on the CJ when the road gets challenging. It's sturdy af and If it breaks, it's easy and cheap to repair.

[@off-roadingexplained8417]

One more thing ... even unlike *most* (the 392 Rubicon can do this ) modern wranglers , in addition to sending power left and right , the compass , renegade and Cherokee can ALSO send power front to rear because of the PTU , and , they can ALSO essentially lock 50/50 (like a part time 4wd): that's what sand / mud default torque split is. In fact , the Cherokee Trailhawk can send 100% to the rear AND you can lock it which would mean that if the front right tire is off the ground , it's possible that the front left tire could experience ZERO wheel slip!

[@TiltingT]

I drive a 2022 compass trailhawk daily as it was the vehicle provided by my employer.. i absolutely love it.. great little ride with plenty of capabilities and the options found on the newer compass trailhawk models is staggering

[@decayofalberta1520]

As someone that had a couple of old school 4x4 manuals . I would lock the hubs in before I would get into trouble. Then I didn’t have to get out if I get into trouble. And sometimes you need speed to get though places.

[@infernoking7504]

In the snow I would rather have the modern awd and light offroading in mud in more hardcore I would rather have the 4x4 with solid axles and the lockers for deeper mud and deep snow. It all really depends on what you need.

[@AJSHOPE]

I think that's what everyone needs to understand. If you are a hardcore offroad enthusiast, you most likely are going to have a true offroad focused vehicle specifically for those scenarios. Most people who want AWD or 4x4 usually just need it every once in a while or want to have it for winter.

[@RKmndo]

The XJ, ZJ, and KJ with NP242 SelecTrac had it about right...2WD, AWD, 4H, 4L, and Neutral...with a 2.72:1 low and a simple tcase to rebuild. All Jeep had to do was add switchable TCS/VSC/ABS. Owners could add lunchbox or Ox lockers at their discretion, for serious offroading. I prefer those geared mechanical methods of aiding traction to diffs, vs the reliance on sensors, brakes, and clutches... especially offroad. They can last longer than 15yrs in the rust belt. I used to lock my CJ's front hubs in Autumn. Things stay lubed better if you lock them at least 1-2x a month and drive a short errand. I never had an issue with my hubs or with my cast-iron, gear-driven tcase. Try the slip test with an NP242 KJ that has lunchbox or Ox lockers at each end. A QuadraTrac CJ7 with Ox lockers could ace that test too.

[@bghvid]

I had a 1980 CJ5... bone stock with the straight 6 .... went everywhere I wanted it to... should have kept it!

[@infernoking7504]

To make that yellow jeep better all you gotta do is flip the leaf springs on top of the axle add longer shocks and a few other things and better tires and it would be okay for most things.

[@markc6207]

I used to lock my hubs in December and leave um locked all winter. If the old vehicle has a minor problem gum a wire tie and duck tape can fix stuff for a few miles or days lol. A lunchbox locker will solve the open dif problem.

[@coloradomallcrawlers]

This is the video I’ve been wanting to make… nice job TFL!

[@jojoaspi7398]

Is it me or is Tomy really starting to look like his dad? 🤣🤣

[@AHungryHunky]

I think it's the glasses, but yeah he's growing into Adulthood so a resemblance to Roman is no surprise.

[@RoadLessTraveledMedia]

I think it's fair to say that unless you anticipate, or know, that you'll be going off-road and need a 4low transfer case, most of the modern TCS systems will suffice. I do think its a bit of an overly dramatic comparison to pull an old CJ in with a brand new trailhawk compass...but then again, the folks who know they'd prefer the CJ (or more modern 4x4s) know why. Good demonstration for the folks wondering whether they "need" low gearing and/or lockers

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

In the old school all functions are hardware based like it wouldn't take the lever at first and you pushed, etc. and it got it, In a modern vehicle everything is electronics and if you get a bit of dust or smt you could get a limp mode light or none of the off road aids working. And you can't do anything about it, That's the main problem for me and you could get a bit more sophisticated old school off roaders with 2 levers instead of 4 :-) So there maybe some happy medium.

[@humorss]

I'm surprised how capable the compass 4wd is, jeep really got the bld working fantastically.

[@niceguyrides]

You are comparing a modern high end jeep with a non-locker older jeep. Traction control off-road systems are the modern lockers. Not apples to apples.

[@americanrambler4972]

Got a suggestion. The first generation ford Ranger, the basic 4 cylinder 5 speed model came with 2 popular options, at least in my area. Limited slip differentials for front and rear, and a bit later auto locking hubs. They also had amazing articulation and wheel travel. I bet one of those would just walk through the roller and trenches test without breaking a sweat.

[@egates]

When you went sepia-toned and ranty I thought I was watching your father.

[@NickTarterOKC]

The old Jeep in this case still has 300% better off-road potential. It's not that hard or expensive (especially when considering the cost of these new Jeeps) to upgrade with some basic lockers. With lockers that CJ would shred the Compass. Plus, in off road situations articulation and ground clearance are super important. That Compass has almost no articulation and scant clearance. The CJ has both for days. If I had to choose between the two and I was planning to spend a lot of time on the trails, my choice would be the CJ and it's not even close. I'd just make sure I had a good winch to pull my friend in the Compass out when he gets stuck every 1/4 mile.

[@housepianist]

I’m inclined to believe that owners of the Compass would not attempt to do the same things as a CJ would do. For those who like extreme off-roading, a modified (with lockers) CJ might be the way to go but no one would want to drive those things. For me, I’m perfectly fine with a modern 4wd vehicle like the Compass since I wouldn’t need to prove I could crawl over big rocks. However, like Tommy said, there are many variables to off-reading and not just what you described. In fact I may have to pull you out of “simple” obstacles with a Compass if you’re not properly equipped. At least when everything is said and done, I can cruise home with all the modern conveniences to make it enjoyable.

[@montechie]

Especially cheaper to upgrade since an old 4x4 like the CJs are easy to work on for even a low-skilled home mechanic (me). The ability to self-repair is getting lost across the board, and that's sky rocketing costs/challenges to update/repair or do field repairs.

[@housepianist]

@@montechieIn a way, you can “blame” consumers for that. Over the decades, people have started wanting more conveniences and creature comforts. And insurance companies want more safety features so it was probably inevitable that self-repair for cars would start becoming extinct since everything is so complicated. And expensive! 😕

[@jt9411]

I have a 2015 Grand Cheorkee, the traction control setting for snow works well, until snow is deep. When its deep and wheel spin increases it cuts power, so I disable it. I will say modern Jeeps perform well with their 4wd/awd systems.

[@automotive474]

They did the track tests with M/T tires and the CJ went through all the obstacles with a little throttle and some wheelspin, like CJs do... so they had a crisis meeting and decided "man we need to find the smallest , most worn out, snow tire out there to fit this old jeep with" 😅

[@Ram14250]

A lot of work and a lot of "blue" smoke out that tail pipe! LOL. Fun test Tommy!

[@glennkverneland833]

Enjoyed the video Tommy! One thing missing is the center of gravity argument. Despite some of the advantages with regard to narrow track, approach/departure/break-over clearances - I would be very nervous attempting to drive one of those older Jeeps on a highly technical trail. If you guys get bored, you can start gathering some center of gravity / max tipping angle data on these vehicles. I think it amounts to tipping the vehicle to a specified (safe) angle while weighing it. Probably some SAE test protocols to consider.. Some manufacturers probably even specify this in their manuals. But on the older vehicles.....?

[@ianberry5562]

Great comparison/ demonstration love the slip tests

[@HSstudio.Ytchnnl]

wait, is this the same yellow jeep in the cheap jeep to moab challenge?

[@Myk63]

After a year in my '77 CJ5 once it snowed I locked the hubs and left them until Spring. In theory that's unneeded wear but I never had a problem with that until the frame rusted and it went to the junk yard. My '22 Cherokee TH is more capable by far. The diagonal test sucked IRL with open diff, it was the only time I needed pulled out.

[@haldoglife]

As someone who has extensively driven the old-school 4-wheelers off road, I am painfully aware of the limitations of open differentials. Thanks for demonstrating it so clearly.

[@timwing4379]

Decent tires, plus locking rear diff... build done. Also, I just bought a $3000 TJ... I'll enter this competition, if y'all ain't scared! (I'll be building it as a Rally-Cross Jeep, so y'all will have the advantage on the trials!

[@ultrafuel2559]

I owned a Bronco II for 15 years and three Isuzu Troopers with no kind of limited slip differentials and the only time I got stuck was once in my Bronco when I had road tires in slick mud. Ground clearance, locking center differential, and good tires will take you more places than you can walk. No pothole was too deep or curb too high. The only reason jeep is struggling these days is their standard engines are too weak. It's also the only reason I never bought a Toyota 4-runner after Isuzu went away.

[@bobvedder2451]

My 1976 CJ7 had such a low range with its four speed you could start off in second or on flat roads even thord gear. The first gear low range was such a granny gear when going down a steep hill in first gear low rangs, you could get out of the jeep and walk faster than the jeep would roll.

[@Thomas-sv6jr]

Modern vehicles are like glass cannons, big boom if they don't break. But what do you want to take deep in the bush and feel confident you won't be walking out. Heck my buddy's new wrangler half the time couldn't make it out of the driveway because it was broke so many times.

[@jmc3818]

I just picked up a 71 CJ5, so great!!!! I need that swing out tire carrier though, I can't find one anywhere, so rare!

[@iClamperson]

Awesome video. Really appreciate you guys going out and giving real world visual examples of these kinds of things. It's not going to change minds of grumpy old farts who can't accept new technology, but it does help explain it to people who just aren't car people and don't understand the difference.

[@Offshore1977]

What’s better back in the day was ground clearance. Lowest part was the bell housing but the rest of the running ground clearance was much higher.

[@RyanHaas]

Cool moonswatch tommy! Didn't know you were a watch man!

[@yoyartube]

Throw lockers in the CJ and it'll run some of the toughest trails. The compass, not so much.

[@seanwatson3790]

This is a stock for stock comparison. Throw lockers in anything it'll go anywhere

[@RKmndo]

​@@seanwatson3790 That Compass is a trail-trim Trailhawk. The CJs were offered with front and rear LSDs as options. A fairer comparison would be using a CJ with freshly-rebuilt LSDs.

[@seanwatson3790]

@@RKmndo I understand that. I know all about all the trailhawks. I own one. But good luck getting one of those old cjs

[@-Wolfgang]

I had a 20 Wrangler and my wife had a 21 Cherokee Trailhawk. Her Trailhawk really outperformed the Wrangler in snowy and slushy conditions.

[@Redhawk24]

Tires most important for snow

[@tarfeef101]

4:25 I'm that 1% 😅 really wish I had the new engine and some better AWD programming though, older, more deactivated FSRs with lots of loose rocks are pretty difficult for it

[@ATVDUDEZ]

I had a Jeep Compass, great foul weather vehicle but it used a lot of oil. I doubt we will see a compass on the road in 40 years.

[@DLTJR1959]

Agree...I doubt if you will see many at 20 years...

[@AHungryHunky]

Yeah my Renegade used to drink oil. Had a recall on it and they updated some software, sips oil now but I don't feel an urge to carry a quart with me. Kinda funny, my old S10 leaked oil at the same rate my Jeep drank it. Other than that the 2.4 has been good to me, feels a bit more lively since they did the update too.

[@JarmelSingsKaraoke]

THANKS TOMMY AMD CAMERA NINJA COLE 👏👏👏.... HAVE A GOOD DAY EVERYONE ✌️

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

Throw some junkyard Dana 44's at that CJ5 with air lockers, and it would go anywhere...

[@daveharness70]

Great video and wrap up at the end!

[@rockstertx]

I wonder how many Jeep Compasses you sold with this demo....

[@mattw.7197]

Had a compass for 8 months in 2018. Crossed 1 creek. Game over. Bought a rubi lol

[@PrincessTS01]

the 2.0 turbo for the 23mp was spec'd with 87 but the computer will up-tune when it detects octane, so running 91+ = zoom go read the manual if you don't believe me

[@jamessellards7157]

There's no way that the new compass will be on this planet half as long as that old Wrangler.