Did We Buy a Dud or Stud Jeep Wrangler? Cheap Jeep Challenge Ep.2

[@SynsterFear]

This is like the perfect relationship most dads wish to have with their son. A shared hobby or interest that they can grow on together.

[@michaelpinedo8597]

SynsterFear I was about to write the same thing. All I can say is wish I had a relationship like that with my dad. Great vid guys God Bless

[@lopez12345ml]

SynsterFear I wish my dad would of taken me to the gym when I was younger

[@tientrinh6906]

bowlingballhead x what he done did?

[@jasonmartineau6441]

For me, it's watching football with my dad. Love my old man. 👍🏼

[@joelspaulding5964]

Am loving the Cheap Jeep saga. Will follow closely. Can't wait for the modest mods but the best part of this is Tommy and Roman out their doing stuff they both really love. Enjoy it all, guys. Keep em coming!

[@TheSkullReviews]

This is an enjoyable series, that little jeep did pretty darn well out there.

[@518TommyP]

I can not tell you how much I love seeing a dad and son having such a good time together doing something they love....the happiest memory of my dad I can remember was when we shared a few beers and just messed around in the field out back with the 84 jeep..it's what got me hooked..someday I'll be able to afford a jeep like he had..you brought me good memories watching your videos...you've got a subscriber for life...so miss my dad Message to Tommy...cherish these days my friend..memories.like this are awesome...you're blessed to have such an awesome dad...

[@jl4091]

That is a solid Jeep.6500 is a great price with hard top and doors and no mechanical problems.I would fly out to LA to get that.

[@drgonzo767]

Agreed, just for no frame rust. All the cheap Jeeps here are rotting.

[@blakephillips6223]

Not my cheap jeep bought mine for $5,200 in East Tennessee with no problems at all with a 4.0 5sp no rust what’s so ever

[@andoniades]

...and I thought Jeeps were expensive just because I live in the S.F. Bay. They must be pricey nationwide.

[@garyblatt8925]

I had a 4 cylinder TJ and I swore off 4 bangers after the experience. A few things from my days in a Jeep like this: Get a PowerTrax locker. The Jeep is not worth the money to invest in an e-locker, ARB air locker, or a Detroit. You are screwed on the lift because of the length of the automatic transmission and very short rear drive shaft. More than 3 inches will cause driveline vibes unless you modify the transfer case with a Slip Yoke Eliminator and longer drive shaft. A small puck lift with 32" tires might be the best option for off road and would not cause too much issue with that weak Dana 35C with big, meaty tires. Cold air intakes are a "proceed at your own risk" kinda deal on these old 2.5 liter motors because they lean out the air fuel mixture on this old system and lead to the need to run premium fuel to prevent pre-detonation in the combustion chamber. Cat-back systems are somewhat "snake oil" because they will cost you precious torque needed to turn bigger tires. DON"T DO THE RAG IN THE AIRBOX TRICK TO BOOST TORQUE!!! It may help you on the low end, but you lose everything the weak motor has above 2000 RPMS. Adding a winch on the front bumper will lead to changing the spring rates on the front springs to prevent the drivers side upper control arm from puncturing the lower radiator hose. Change the oil to synthetic oil and run it about 1/2 quart low so the weak ass engine will rev more easily under acceleration. Check the oil level at ever fill up because you are running without any kind of safety cushion at this point. Throttle body spacers will help torque, but do nothing for horsepower and really are not worth the money unless you make your own. The best intake trick is to swap in a 4.0L Throttle body for the 2.5L throttle body and then use a die grinder to increase the size of the intake manifold hole to match the size of the 4.0L throttle body gasket. I am sure I have other tricks from my days of running a Jeep like this. I just have to dig through my notes and see what I learned, but for the most part, this is the big stuff. Enjoy your TJ and use a trailer behind that Rebel or Land Cruiser to take the weak little Jeep to the trail because it is miserable to drive on the highway due to the lack of power.

[@J-W.-]

God dam that was satisfying to read, you know your shit!

[@tactickleshtooper1753]

Gary Blatt >>> man you are well informed and have lot's of experience. Thank you for the share!

[@DiecastShowCustoms]

Good info here

[@stevest.martin3940]

Gary Blatt what would be a good locker for a 2010 Wrangler sport? No lift and should I do the rear only ?

[@garyblatt8925]

@@stevest.martin3940 It all depends on what you want to do with the Jeep. You have a Dana 44 in the rear so your axle is strong unlike the Dana 35C in the "Cheap Jeep" TJ. Consequently, I would easily recommend an option like an Eaton E-Locker if you have the budget for this type of an upgrade and can find someone to install it correctly in your axle (note: you can do this yourself but unless you know how to shim a differential, a inexperience can lead to a costly mistake when parts have to be replaced). If you want to go the inexpensive, do-it-yourself route, you can install a PowerTrax in the rear axle which will give you more confidence off road (even when compared to the Jeep LSD in the Sport/Sahara trim), but it comes at a cost because of the nature of the device. A PowerTrax (and a cheaper Lock Rite as well) lock when the power is applied to the differential by the drive shaft. This means that you will squeal tires and have the potential for "buck jumping" the back of the Jeep when going around turns. Plus, with the rear coil springs on a Wrangler (TJ, JK, JL) you end up with a scenario of rear steer when applying the gas and the even power to the axle cause the frame to rock the suspension more than with an open differential. Rear steer is much more noticeable on TJs and short wheel base JKs/JLs, but is less noticeable on TJ-Ls, and the long wheelbase JKU/JLU. Also because of the nature of the PowerTrax, it is not recommended for steering axle installations on rigs used as daily drivers. As far as the front axle, you really don't need a locker in the front if you have one in the back if you are not going on super serious trails that require a few inches of left and 35" tires. If you decided to go that route, the only option would be the Eaton E-Locker. The PowerTrax (as noted above) has some nasty side effects that may cause your Jeep not to steer even if the front axle is not engaged on the Jeep. [Important Note: Newer Jeeps have a vacuum disconnect on the front axle that stops parasitic drag of the front differential turning when the Jeep is not in four wheel drive. This type of could potentially allow for the use of a PowerTrax without the nasty side effect in two wheel drive, but you would still have issues trying to make a tight turn on the trail with transfer case engaged in 4X4 so it is still not something I would recommend. FWIW, I have not kept up with what year model Jeeps have the axles with the engagement forks for the wheels to turn but I do know these were installed on several of the Dodge models and I think the last of the JKs and the JLs have this feature to increase fuel mileage.) And before all y'all in the comments section go about flaming me on that "other" selective type of differential locker, yes, I know there is the ARB air locker as well. But this option is just over the top in price because you also have to install an on board air compressor and air tank in addition to the installation of the locker. And even more in the "less favorable" column for this option is that you have to deal with the maintenance of the air lines to make the locker "do its thing". Plus, you will always have an "air leak" when you need the locker most making the ARB a PITA (IMHO) and not the choice I would make. Although, on-board air is always cool and will make other people on the trail jealous of your rig. ;-) But now I am too old to do pneumatic plumbing on an off road vehicle which is why I currently have an e-locker in my truck. I wish you best of luck with the option you choose and may all your trips on the trail be filled with joy. Cheers!

[@r1eaterr]

You are the new Motor Trend! Since their content shifted away from KZbin, I haven’t watched a single video. Keep up the good content.

[@333jsh]

Ryan Manzi same! Good job TFL!

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

Same. They want you to pay for access to their content. Hopefully TFL can avoid that same fate.

[@JeepTJWheelin]

They are becoming snooty like them already. I can see them failing down the road. They threw in this "commoners" video to all us serfs but they are all about the fake luxury, expensive 4 door jeep limos. At their core, these people are among the false luxury jeep crowd like that phony mark allen. Not the true utilitarian Jeepers. Anyone who prefers the garbage 4 door jeep limos is Not a true Jeeper and never will be! 2 door Wrangler owners understand this. Those that don't, well, you know.

[@kaptainkoolz6359]

$5 a month for loads of excellent content is a small price to pay, its worth it just for roadkill IMO

[@Chevydevil]

$5 a month for commercial free good content. Oh no, one less coffee a month.

[@jaytroxel3495]

Great video guys! First of all I sold my 2000 TJ with a 4 liter 2 years ago... it was white, tan hard top, mildly lifted with 33 inch tires. I MISS it. Your video brought back some great memories of me out playing in my TJ on the trails and snow. You make some great comments in your video. The TJ was the last Jeep ( in my opinion) that still carries some of the old style Jeep in it's heart. The Jeeps today are all cash for flash. Who can afford 40K for a new Jeep? I would go so far as to say 50 percent of the folks that buy Jeeps today don't even take them off road, or even engage the front transfer case from time to time. Jeeps today seem to be 'street machines' with lights.. stickers.. and shiny Armor All tires. I bet most new Jeep owners have no idea of the capability of a straight up stock Jeep right off the showroom floor. They are extremely capable, as you guys demonstrate in your video. An automatic, 2.5 liter Jeep with all season tires could handle all but the boulder field. Thanks for this video and all your other content. I really enjoy it. Happy New Year.

[@dexxydoo]

Roman has to do an episode on how to find/buy used cars.

[@rjlind2807]

I’m so excited for this series!

[@tompaull3214]

Agree. Great series. Rekindled my interest in a used Jeep just for this purpose.

[@jedironin380]

"DiffLock V.2!" :)

[@Stuntman2304]

I love you guys. Gained a subscriber for sure! I’ve been Jeeping for years. My father hooked me on Jeeps. He’s the reason I got my first Jeep. He bought a 1999 Jeep Wrangler Tj Sahara sedition 4.0 white and desert tan Jeep when I was 14 years old. Growing up I loved Jeeps. When I turned 18 and finally decided to get my license my father was out one day while I was in school. I was almost done with senior year. My father texted me and asked me what I was doing after school and I said absolutely nothing. I asked him what he was doing. He said he was at the car dealership. I asked why. He said he was buying a truck. I asked if the truck was for me. He said “if ya want an S10 you can pay for it or you can pay of the Jeep and it’s yours” I told my English teacher I needed to call my father and it was very important. I was top of my class so she loved me and naturally let me step into the hall way. I called my father and a few minutes into the phone call my teacher came out and said “We are all very excited you’re getting a Jeep, but you’re getting a little bit loud” I said “I apologize Mrs. Weiss” and she said “whenever you get it all straightened out come on back” and smiled. That was the day my life was changed forever. 5 years later I’m still a Jeep owner. Unfortunately, my first Jeep rusted out in the frame and was unsafe to drive. My second Jeep was a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 5.7 Hemi. That Jeep was fun. It was extremely fast and it was also extremely capable off-road. I was a week away from buying a lift, 33 inch tires, bumpers, a winch, lights, a roof rack, and more and unfortunately, on my way home from work, one fateful morning, my steering wheel locked up and sent me into a tree at around 50 mph. Thankfully, I walked away with little to no injuries. I believe that Jeep saved my life. My current Jeep which I bought less than a week after my wreck is a 2004 Jeep Wrangler Sport, with the 4.0 Inline 6 Cylinder engine and it’s a 5 speed. I have a 4.5 inch full suspension lift, 35 inch tires(recently replaced with Mickey Thompson Baja MTZP3’s and I love them!) I had Dick Cepek FC II’s and they were awesome as well. It has bumpers, lights, a winch, and more. Built T-Case, re geared axles, upgraded axle shafts etc etc. Built rear drive shaft, and more. I could go on for hours. Any ways. I love seeing father/son Jeep lovers. If it wasn’t for my father I really don’t think I’d be this deep into Jeeping. Now my father is 79 years old and turns 80 in September. He’s in decent health but he’s definitely getting older. I know one day whenever my father passes away. My Jeep crew and I will have hundreds of Jeeps in his funeral procession. He was a firefighter, EMT, police officer and police chief. He’s an incredible man and all the adventures we had in that old 99 Jeep will never be forgotten by me. The reason I type all this out is because I don’t ever want you to forget these memories you’re making with your father. I’ve almost lost my father a few times, my father’s almost lost me a few times. Due to my father’s age he’s had a few major health concerns and due to my upbringing I’ve picked dangerous career paths myself. Fire, EMS and military. Never EVER forget these moments man. One day you’ll be able to look back and watch these videos and remember these times and show your kids, and your grand kids and pass along your love for Jeeps that your father and you shared, together. Y’all made me sappy and emotional. Not many people do that. As far as content goes. Incredible, you and your father are better than I’d say 60% of Jeep KZbin channels I see. I’m personal friends with Grace and Jarrett at CrawlTV and I have a few other major contacts in the Jeep world. I pride myself in being a partner with several major Jeep pages on Instagram and I have my own page as well co-owned by a page with over 10k followers. Y’all are legit Jeepers. Come to Florida sometime! Meet my Jeep crew! Jeep beach is coming up!

[@smackhead]

I know I'm really late but just want to say thanks for posting this. My first Jeep was an XJ my Dad helped me with even though he wasn't a Jeep man (it was my 21st birthday). I got turned off after two Grand Cherokee 4.7's (WG, or WJ in the US) dropped valve seats and would have required a fortune to fix (Jeep parts in Australia are expensive but the cars themselves are cheap as chips compared to the US - they have a bad stigma here). Been looking at the TJ's because they have the same nice 4 litre 6 without the overheating issues the XJ had - I live in a town with weather like Phoenix - and even the XJ carried on like a battlehorse. Yes they are low power and torque compared to all the new fangled tech engines, but was reported as being 'one of the best engines that was discontinued' saying 'the 4 litre straight six was as reliable as a block of wood' :)

[@mrtopcat2]

Very nice! This is Hungry Valley OHV. My wife and I took our newly bought jeep here as well to try it out. We were surprised what it can do. We kept asking - can the jeep do this or that. Later in the day we our questions turned into "the jeep just does not care, it does everything you throw at it". For us first timers this was truly amazing. Our jeep made us a great day that day.

[@squareyoyoer640]

People forget how close this jeep is to the original jeep: small, very minimalist, lightweight, and with a rather small 4 cylinder (making only 60hp?!). That is what makes this jeep so appealing to me.

[@deereman8237]

Toby Weber Now all people care about is the 2.0 turbocharged electric assist 8.4inch touch screen... Bring back the real Wrangler!

[@agmobb99]

Thank you for including me in your video. It was so awesome meeting you guys. Every morning I watch your videos with my 2 year old son. He absolutely loves Jeeps and he was so excited when he saw Daddy on your channel! Thank you for all the great content!

[@ScottGiorgini]

I gotta tell you, guys... I thoroughly enjoy watching you guys take vehicles, both old and new, through their paces! I first stumbled on to TFL when I was researching the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, and I ended up buying a 2019 Limited, which I LOVE! (No comments from the purists, please... I didn't buy it to go off roading, and it's probably the best riding vehicle I've ever owned. It has a luxurious feel, high quality finishes through and through, and it chews through the Buffalo snow like a champ!). That being said, it looks like you're having so much fun that I might have to take a look for a cheap Jeep in my area. Cheers! ヅ

[@jasonmartineau6441]

I agree, always fun watching them put vehicles through their paces.

[@uweschroeder]

Of course it's a capable off road vehicle - even without mud tires and lift. Have you seen the WWII version? It worked, which is the reason the military used them. I find that today we rely too much on technology and less on skills. I've driven a simple VW bug places that had "4WD high clearance only" signs and guess what, you scrape the bottom, you jump on the rear bumper for extra traction and you make it. Today we're so used to pushing a button and having lockers, sway bar disconnects, electronic descent control etc. Sure, all nice and dandy and it's all good tools, but back in the old days it was more of a challenge.

[@BeStrong-nf5nc]

You guys should do a video of the samurai vs this jeep , both with better tires and a 2inch lift. Would be awesome at a good offroad area

[@blitzbbffl]

TJ? Nathan and Samurai Don't Care!!

[@jedironin380]

I'd say this has 5 or 6 gerbils under the hood. The Samurai has 2.5. It had 3, but half a gerbil got caught in the drivetrain somewhere. :p

[@garyblatt8925]

With that automatic transmission in the TJ, you might be singing "good vibrations" with a 2" lift on that really short rear drive shaft on the 4 banger Jeep. The pinion angle is going to be just on the bubble of optimum.

[@prettysheddy]

Tommy is extremely blessed to have a dad that has a business doing the things he loves. I would love doing these things with my pop!

[@nourdinemazali493]

Goes both ways i would say :)

[@tactickleshtooper1753]

The Fast Lane Car >>> Excellent video guys! ... you're getting to be real professionals, a testament to the time, energy and effort you put into preparing, filming, narrating and editing your videos, bravo ;-) And now for a quick opinion on the Jeep itself: 1.) you did pick the right one for the title "Cheap Jeep", 2.) the offroading experience will improve ever-so-slightly (but improve none-the-less) with at least A/T or better tires, 3.) exactly, don't go beyond the 30" diameter size, remember you have a lot of room to play with width on 15" and 16", there's a lot of good tires in this category (as one of your team members would have said, "it's girth (tire width) over length (tire height)" ;-)

[@mercman2.5]

Bought my 98 TJ 3 years ago, $6300 it never saw the off road, spent its life behind a motorhome, great shape, 3k later wheels, tires, 4" lift and 4.88's, love every minute behind the wheel. Enjoy the series...

[@salchristiano6606]

Best part of that little jeep is that when you guys are done with it you might just make money on it.

[@matthewallman1]

Really impressed with the stock performance of this little goat! Really enjoying your guy's videos, and the series yous did on the Ram Power Wagon made me want one so bad that I started hunting for one. I couldn't afford one new, but I snagged a used 2013 with under 40k miles on it for 30k in burnt orange and I couldn't be happier!

[@vinceclark6164]

Great video TFL and great purchase! I love the proving grounds you guys tested that Jeep on.

[@waddy8564]

You guys are doing what we all love to do as off road enthusiasts. You are spending time with the ones you love and having fun doing it. I have been watchingTFL for the past few years. It is exciting to see you move away from such a formal format. Always informative and now just plain old fun. Thanks for the videos.

[@lilymae4131]

I live in the rust belt and got curious what $6,500 would buy here, and can say after looking at Craigslist your Jeep at $6,500 would be a bargain here. I've enjoyed the first two videos of Cheap Jeep and will continue to follow it.

[@CamaroAmx]

LilyMae I just bought a clean 98 4.0l 5-speed TJ for $4k and I also live in the rust belt. You just have to look hard and be willing to walk away. I had to drive an hour south to find mine.

[@outdoorelementsports7779]

My little '95 YJ with 31" BFG At's took me (almost) everywhere I wanted. People forget how capable and fun stock short wheelbase jeeps are. Keep it up TFL ! I'd cram 31" tires on that thing with no lift and some trimming, then keep on driving.

[@DiecastShowCustoms]

light weight of the 4 cyl is the key here like he mentioned. That's why the Samurai also does so good off-road. This Jeep needs a manual tranny, bigger tires, and a locker and it will go anywhere.

[@halfchocolatecow3501]

Some swaybar quick discos would be nice too

[@anthonynarducci7344]

Auto is better off road tho he even said that

[@halfchocolatecow3501]

@@anthonynarducci7344 Not always. Manual gives more control but it is definitely harder to master.

[@errhka]

Having used both - auto is better 9 times out of 10 off road

[@halfchocolatecow3501]

@@errhka I like manual for everything but rock crawling. I guess it's kind of an opinion thing though.

[@Oljeepguy]

I had a 97 with same equipment, and hardtop. I bought it cheap because dealer was going to wholesale. Lifted, 35 BFG MT,s, and 4:88's. No lockers, but a winch. I had a blast with that Jeep. Light and not enough power to break much, especially in Midwest mud and loose small rock. Love the cheap Jeep challenge.

[@superhavi]

I don't care what everybody else is saying. I think you've bought the right Jeep!

[@RocHopn]

TFL you guys always come up with great ways to entertain your audience. What a great series for TFL. Looking forward to this. I owned a 94 YJ with the 2.5L slug. Anything more than 31-32" tires will be miserable on the road. Dont go big on a lift even with the t-case drop driveline vibes can develop and be a bear to get rid of. It is amazing what a stock Jeep Wrangler will do. Thanks for demonstrating its capabilities!!

[@ec6933]

As an owner of an 01 4.0 5 speed I love seeing what this little thing can do!

[@zachpowell349]

So stoked for this series!! I got basicly the same jeep tj, white, tan top, tan seats, everything but mine is the 4 Liter. I've been wanting to build up my jeep a little but dont have quite as much money as other people have, so this will be amazing being able to compare and follow along on a cheap budget. Keep em coming!!!

[@parkeringersoll973]

You guys did good finding a cheap one. Where I live 7-8k gets you something with 200,000 hard miles or its beat the heck up and rusting out entirely.

[@galaxyenemy8089]

Parker Ingersoll your smoking dope if you think you pay 7-8k for that price mine was $9500 and mine only has 93000 miles 4 in lift 33 inch tires, aftermarket stereo, subwoofer, after market back bumper, warn winch, banks intank, after market exhaust

[@parkeringersoll973]

@@galaxyenemy8089 Never touched the stuff in my life. Good for you. We obviously live in different parts of the country.

[@galaxyenemy8089]

Doesn’t matter you could find jeeps anywhere it’s not hard to find

[@parkeringersoll973]

+Galaxy Enemy And IF I was looking for one I would but most people buy what's in there area hence me staring in my local area the cost.

[@gavinmetz7689]

Where are you? Just got my 4.0 TJ single owner, hard top(came with two other tops also) exterior and interior are perfect for $5,500 and less miles than theirs. They overpaid for their 2.5..

[@Americanmucle1]

Just when I thought you guys couldn’t impress me more then a new video comes out I love it. You guys deserve your own tv spot on Saturday mornings. Great job keep it going. Favorite automotive journalists.

[@ryanmartinage]

I'd say a lunchbox locker for the rear would be a good item for it. That, a small lift, good 32" tires, and a winch/ bumper she's good to go!

[@centralcoastcamper9631]

Dana 35's don't live long with lockers.

[@jameshicks9181]

Lunch box locker in front! dana 30 is better with lockers and it will be disengaged when in 2 wheel drive on road.

[@billsummerhill5550]

@@jameshicks9181 that's what I have in my 94 yj Dana 30 it works great, and when your in 2wd you don't notice it. been doing some pretty hard rock crawling with no issues love my 2.5l goes just as many places as 4.0s. The onl y thing is. The 4.o is better on Hwy. That's. About it. When I'm off roading I'm crawling, not rock racing

[@johnchildress4101]

The frame looks like it is in excellent condition, so it's probably not been off-road before. Take it from someone who is in the middle of a frame restoration; drill drain holes right at the rear lower control arm bracket mounts. There are no drain holes there, which leaves the muddy water to sit in the frame and rot it from the inside out. You probably already have some in there now...

[@daredevil7442AUTOMOTIVE]

A couple grand in mods will go a long way if you do the work yourselves. TFL needs to hire someone that could wrench & teach the kid how to wrench (pretty easy), he seems like he would embrace wrenching while doing a good job at it.....he just needs the guidance and he'll save a lot of money doing the wrenching during his lifetime while having tons of fun and opening new doors in the automotive hobby.

[@andreystarovoytov3337]

daredevil7442 what do you think they have the Russian guy for?

[@garyblatt8925]

And Mr. Truck is on retainer as an "on air" consultant.

[@tactickleshtooper1753]

Andrey Stroganoff >>> it's not singular as in "the Russian" but plural as in "the Russians", for they (Andrei and Roman) are brothers. Plus the son/nephew. Here's another entertaining Russian automotive channel where they do wild experiments ;-) - kzbin.info/door/CydCOEgfcXAQnkRaLCTsAQ

[@richz.warren7706]

Great video guys, you keep getting better! Keep up the hard work. My first car was an ‘86 Samurai hardtop and I miss it dearly. You’ve convinced me to go find a 4 cyl Jeep TJ - thanks!

[@tmar9159]

Love the Cheap Jeep TJ! Great video. It shows how much fun you can have off-road, with just an inexpensive vehicle, even with a small, 4-cylinder engine.

[@stevecarrier7040]

I love the father son relationship with these two. My son is 18 and we are best friends. That’s definitely a dying thing these days. Keep up the good work.

[@HoosierDaddy_]

Great video as always! Love to see off road testing. Now how about cheap jeep vs samurai!

[@boohoomoron7629]

My money is on the samurai.

[@rhull3939]

They will be virtually identical because they have the same exact set up for their four-wheel drive. The samurai will be more maneuverable because it's slightly smaller but the TJ will have better articulation and slightly more ground clearance.

[@HoosierDaddy_]

All cars and trucks do the same thing. It's like women. Once you've seen one..... You wanna see the rest!

[@rhull3939]

@@HoosierDaddy_ this is true.

[@leifhietala8074]

Cheap Jeep vs. Sidekick. I think that's a closer comparo. The Samurai will slither through a gap only 2/3 as wide as the Wrangler.

[@mariodesmo]

I don't go into those mud hole obstacles since seeing a full size truck go in, roaring along, then BAM! He hit a 6 foot long, 6x6 inch post from a sign that had been thrown into the mud and hidden below the surface. He hit it with his drivers front wheel which was ripped clean off the the axle. He was pissed to say the least. Pretty crappy of someone throwing that sign post into the mud. Nice looking TJ! I've also got an 02 but it's fully built, yellow, with the 4.0L 6 cyl. The yellow Jeeps have 100HP more than the others! Looking forward to the series!

[@C8sorbs]

Looking forward to the Banzai Battle; Cheap Jeep vs. Suzuki Samurai.

[@jackrotter9434]

Love this type of content! I have my eyes on my grandpa's '98 TJ 5speed, inline 6 with only 65k miles.

[@pilotguy1141]

Still cheaper than an overpriced side-by-side

[@vinceclark6164]

yowza yowza, a lot cheaper! Which would I get? The Jeep!

[@youngblood23rb]

You took the words out of my mouth, and this can be driven on road and in the rain, definitely the way to go imo

[@suavehouse5150]

With a license plate 👍🏽

[@pilotguy1141]

@@youngblood23rb yep and it's got heat and air conditioning. You can even buy used lifts off of Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace give it a mild 2 inch lift throw winch on it and have a blast

[@youngblood23rb]

@@pilotguy1141 Totally agree

[@VentureAHighway]

So glad I discovered this series you guys did on this old TJ. I love the TJ Wrangler. I'm going to watch every video you did with it

[@OutlawFarmersRC]

Tires, Lockers, Winch, CB Radio is how I would spend my couple thousand dollars.

[@bah5310]

We did a 2200 mile trip in our 03 Rubicon from WV to KY and TN and back. It's no Suburban that's for sure. Great series.

[@suavehouse5150]

2” lift 33” tires rear locker gear change and it’s capable for anything simple and affordable with a license plate compared to a overpriced side by side

[@kanaletumlinson]

What an awesome series. Great to see dad & son having fun sharing the same interests. Wish my dad was still alive to do something like this together. Thinking I too should try a cheap Jeep challenge

[@Kimbrough87]

If you let some air out of the tires it would give u better grip

[@bobrocco4218]

I noticed that too. And those aren't AT tires, no matter what is stamped on them.

[@eliasramos8670]

What a great Jeep. Wow. It’s so nice seeing a stock Jeep.

[@nicolecurry5627]

Best video ever you guys make me happy 😊

[@johns381]

One of my best friends had an 02 4 cylinder auto back in high school. It had 31x10.50 all terrains with no lift and was great off road except really heavy/deep mud. It was slow but on most of our trails it did awesome. This Jeep brings back some great memories for me. Be careful getting into deep mud, the transmission really doesn’t like that stuff. Awesome buy guys!👍

[@noelebbert9322]

Great video. I would be interested in long ish term ownership costs of this Jeep. This would be a true indicator of a cheap Jeep as many people find out purchase price is not the only cost.

[@jayar202]

Great point. Often vehicles are cheap to acquire but a money pit to maintain

[@ebikeengineer]

Another great one. Everyone does videos with the 4.0, you're blazing a new trail with a 2.5L TJ. Around here the 2.5s with 5 speeds are the cheapest Jeeps, glad to see they are very capable.

[@nachovalenti]

I love TJ's all of them are great.

[@rcrocker02]

im genuinely impressed at the capability of such a base model wrangler. it has nothing on a rubicon on paper like not even close. and yet it went pretty effortlessly through that stuff

[@rickysafer2895]

I think the deal was pretty good on a Jeep that clean , and seems to be running good to. Glad to see you doing the test like this on a stock Jeep. Good Job !!!!!!

[@GBV1436]

I can hardly wait to see how the jeep comes along and am happy that you guys are doing mods on a budget. Thanks

[@sembalo]

We don't have cheap Wranglers here in Finland :D

[@JahyMoonwalker]

I bet there's lots more variety that people in the US would be jealous of!

[@janetairlines1351]

You can probably get. Hilux, a reliable vehicle

[@boohoomoron7629]

And yet, you still can buy the new Jimny...

[@JahyMoonwalker]

Yeah, I'd much rather have a hillux!

[@sembalo]

Jeeping is a lifestyle :D

[@buckduc]

So stoked to see what you guys do with this TJ. My son and I are doing the same with an ‘06 TJ Sport (Manual). Considered a JL Rubicon, Raptor, and ZR2 but in the end it just didn’t make sense for us. Having 70% of the capability at 20% of the cost makes a lot of sense. And so far we are having 100% of the fun. Can’t wait to see what you guys do with this one. 👍

[@FlackerMan]

While they are both stock, compare this jeep with your old Cherokee.

[@jasonmartineau6441]

Tommy sold that right before they bought this Jeep.

[@nfssable]

I learned to drive on my dad's '92 YJ with a 4 cyl & 5 speed manual. It was a load of fun!

[@rhull3939]

For everyone saying that the 4.0 is the way to go, I can tell you from 25 years in about ten different wranglers that the 2.5 l can do anything the 4.0 can do off road with 33 inch tires or less. Even if you go to 35 inch tires, which you shouldn't on the stock axles, all you have to do to the 2.5 is regear to 4.88s. the 4.0 is truly only better on the highway. By the way, 6500 bucks is a steal for a tj in that condition. I challenge anyone to send a link for one in that condition for less. When it comes to a jeep that old it's in as good a condition you can find for the year and mileage.

[@centralcoastcamper9631]

The price was okay for a 4 cylinder TJ hard top model. If you don't mind a 4 cyl YJ Wrangler, they can even be bought for half that around here in Calif.

[@rhull3939]

@@centralcoastcamper9631 yep. My current daily is a 95 yj 2.5 auto. Great condition. 2700 bucks.

[@nickmotsarsky4382]

@@rhull3939 I'm so sorry to hear that..

[@rhull3939]

@@nickmotsarsky4382 I'm sorry to hear that you're a douchebag because this Jeep is and was my first choice of vehicles to use everyday, so how is that a bad thing? If I wanted a different vehicle to drive, I get one. If you're trying to troll, at least make it less obvious. Now with that being said, go eat horseshit.

[@nickmotsarsky4382]

@@rhull3939 Oh snap. You got me good. At least get a 5-speed wrangler, if you insist on sticking with that horrible 2.5..

[@ramonolivares2072]

Hey this is one of the best off road videos you guys have made with a basic Jeep. Was actually very fun to watch it. Great job guys.👍

[@WelcomeToTheMadness]

I’m still trying to figure out how you guys got it at this price. Jeep fanatics, are having a meeting on how to punish the former owner as we watch this video.

[@boohoomoron7629]

If you need any further proof of how the douche wagon got its name.

[@secondcreekworkshop3908]

I bought my 97 Wrangler tj 4 cylinder 5 speed a few months ago for $2500 the owners were moving to east coast for a family emergency .

[@planetxmetal]

Just did a little search myself and locally I found base model SE's with similar mileage for about $9,000. They did really well getting this one.

[@AkioWasRight]

There are sub-$7,000 Wranglers all over Craig's List. Seriously, these vehicles are not unicorns.

[@drwills220]

Also did research and found other TJ's for less than 6500.00 and significant lower mileage: www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourceContext=carGurusHomePageModel&newSearchFromOverviewPage=true&inventorySearchWidgetType=AUTO&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=c2411&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity2=c2390&zip=23235&distance=50000&searchChanged=true&modelChanged=false&filtersModified=true#listing=224703367

[@12361870]

I appreciate that you guys keep pumping out budget Jeep build vehicle videos because as someone looking to get another Jeep I feel with the Jeep Wrangler JL what you get vs how much your paying is a bit much for me to justify

[@knightwing4]

Maybe you guys should put one of those Cummins 4 cylinder diesel crate motors. They’re supposed to be pretty good.

[@richardmiller1256]

Not so cheap, though.

[@Josh-ys4lt]

knightwing4 Agreed! But that would defeat the cheap part.

[@richardmiller1256]

@Cinema Superhit tubesock is a tough Jeep to compete with at any budget.

[@suavehouse5150]

Easily $10k swap

[@richardmiller1256]

@@suavehouse5150 the ready to go motor is listed at $8,999. Still need everything required to adapt it to the Jeep. Suspension upgrades to hold it up. All kinds of extra shit.

[@nathanjames498]

I’ve been wheeling and modifying my 2002 4cyl Wrangler for the last 12yrs. I would love to show you guys what it’s become over the years. It still retains its original axle housings, engine and transmission. I have also run many of the most difficult trails in CA and Moab. Lightweight is the key as you’ve said and my little TJ surprises everyone with it’s capability and reliability. If you’re still in CA, head up to Fresno and let’s do a little snow wheeling in the sierras!

[@andreborges2106]

Hei guys, you have this for a couple of days and you off road it, when are we seeing the little Samurai kicking all these other 4x4 butts? ;)

[@rockymountboy]

Unfortunately, this just outside L.A., Calif., and the Samurai is in Colorado, so probably never.

[@Cmott426]

@@rockymountboy They are driving the TJ back to Colorado. So a comparison could happen.

[@rockymountboy]

@@Cmott426 Yeah, I misread Andre's comment. I thought he meant comparing the TJ and the Samurai at that exact location.

[@97cadillac]

I'm glad that you bought a tj 2.5 . I bought my 2nd 2.5 just last year and there aren't many videos on what people can do with them. I have a 2000 base model also. 114k miles. I love it and also want to do some mods but not crazy like what you are doing. Keep going and looking forward to more cheap jeep vids. Thanks

[@joespittle1]

It's like a little mountain goat. Scampering up the hills and readily taking on anything thrown at it.

[@greygoose4x46]

Joe Spittle the first time I took my 97 tj to rausch creek after wheeling my built up JKUR for 2 years ... it was immediately nicknamed " the goat " TJs are so nimble

[@SnapTheBeans]

I’ve got a 4 cylinder auto TJ with 2 inches of lift on 31s and I absolutely love it. It goes anywhere my buddies 6yl manual goes and then some. At the end of the day it’s a jeep and it makes me smile and that’s all I ask for

[@345gt6]

i like this jeep challenge ! 100% stock condition but please don't destroy this vintage jeep..

[@publicplans5696]

345 GT 2002 isn’t vintage lol it’s just another POS jeep

[@CamaroAmx]

It’s not really a vintage Jeep. Plus they made 100s of thousands of these TJs. There are at least 50 for sale on Craigslist right now for sale in my area. And they make every single part for these.

[@ADirtyScrub]

For the price, something like a ZJ or WJ is a much better off-road option. They are abundant and cheap with great aftermarket support and have the 4.0L as the base engine or V8 options as the upgraded option. They can be lifted to 3-4" without replacing control arms due to the longer wheelbase. They are more comfortable daily/on-road drivers and get better mileage due to better aerodynamics (My 3" lifted WJ on 33's gets 25mpg highway). They have the same D30/D35 axles as the TJ or a D44A rear with the V8 engines. The absolutely bulletproof NP242 T-case is the standard option while the less desirable but automatic AWD NP247/249 t-case more common with the V8's. They are really underrated rigs and would be perfect for the type of stuff this TJ will be doing given the mods you're putting on it.

[@bt4b4]

I think you could of given that guy selling this Jeep, 1k and a bag of grass. Just saying !

[@spicysnowman8886]

Weed?

[@AndresK5Blazer]

Years ago I had the chance to do pretty good south american off road (not US gravel off road) in a 1995 XJ Cherokee, 2 door, 30.5" tires, low tech lift, 2.5 liter, 5 speed, NP231 Command-Trac, 2.72:1 transfer case. Open rear diff! I loved that red Jeep!

[@StewartHines]

I was trying to not want a jeep...

[@bradleypollack5658]

I thought the same but this kinda makes me want one!

[@deereman8237]

I’ve been trying to not want a Jeep since I was born, but here I am, with everyone in my family in the snow in their Jeeps, still in 2wd, and I’m really wishing my 08’ Dodge 1500 4x4 could make it out of the snowy driveway without having to get a run at it! I even have aggressive Cooper Adventurer AT2 S4 tires! The heavy weight, and light rear end just kills it! Even if I put a 6 inch lift and 35’s on it, it still wouldn’t be as capable as a stock Jeep!

[@tnitron9750]

I can't wait for part 3. The Drive back to Colorado. I love road trips! This looks like a sweet little TJ for 6500!

[@lelandeggleston1041]

Vs. The Sami

[@josiahhunnicutt4787]

In 2013 I picked up a 98 wrangler sport auto with a hard top. AC worked. It had a 2 inch lift, and 1 inch body lift, and 33s. It had never been off road. 120k miles. I got it at a church auction for $4300. It ran perfectly.

[@randalllawkin]

Need more power LS swap it lol

[@Welcometofacsistube]

Randall Lawkin No one wants to junk the Jeep. Keep your Generic Motor Crap Ls boat anchors for what they were made for; holding boats in place.

[@rustingparts]

Hell no, the AMC Inline motors are the way to go

[@spicysnowman8886]

Should do a hellcrate swap

[@deereman8237]

Put a 4.7 Magnum in it! Great reliable and light engines! It’d be pretty unique as well!

[@JadIbrahim]

you guys should use the handbrake trick for when one of the (rear) tires starts slipping

[@SkodzGaming]

Driving dirt road calling it off road, meanwhile the canadian reviewer drives a 4runner through mud, ice and snow....

[@paulharris8282]

Awesome videos thanks guys, I bought a 97 Jeep TJ with a 4 cylinder 5 speed manual I put 33 inch all-terrain Cooper's on it and that thing will climb through anything we have a blast in it

[@Acekg1911]

Roman: Wanna try a hill? Tommy: Yea let's try a hill! Roman: Let's see how good the brakes are. Tommy: Yea, let's see how good the brakes are! Tommy: I Love You Daddy!

[@garyblatt8925]

When I bought my TJ, my father did not speak to me for 3 years because he did not think I needed the Jeep. Tommy, you have all the luck. Keep that relationship strong!

[@calvinh.8882]

When you get to where one back tire is off the ground or just losing traction, pull and release the E-brake to trick the rear end into sending power to the other tire. You can also pump the brake pedal to trick the front tires into doing the same thing. That's kinda what traction control does.

[@Likethetacosauce]

How is $6500 cheap??

[@noelebbert9322]

Driveable without instantaneous car repair

[@josephwhiskeybeale]

Maybe it’s the part of the country, I know this Jeep in better condition might get $5k around here. Just no market for 4cyl Wranglers here.

[@Likethetacosauce]

@@josephwhiskeybeale same 4cyl jeeps are given away around here. Lifted 4.0 tj on 33s go for that price at dealerships.

[@josephwhiskeybeale]

90_s13 here a I6 TJ in this condition is about $7-8k.

[@ewxlt]

Maybe because a new one is $50k +

[@shannonnicholson2870]

I like the cheap Jeep challenge! Please continue the build! I would be afraid to venture a $50-$60K Jeep in the wild.

[@girish.aceawm6492]

Get an old Toyota helix off road

[@armink.2411]

Its Hilux.

[@nachovalenti]

I don't care about Toyota or Suzuki I love Jeep.

[@nagaraworkshop]

Yes, light weight is everything! I had a short wheelbase Landrover V8 and was working in woodlands. Some of the access tracks along the side of various hills had a lot of camber and the Landrover, in wet weather, would slide sideways, even on knobbly tyres. I went back to a trusty Subaru L-series on road tyres and it was miles better even without much ground clearance and a very poor departure angle. It only weighed 1,100 kilos. Over half a ton lighter than the Landy. I don't know if you had the old-style Fiat Panda 4x4 in the USA but farmers here in the UK bought a lot of them; tiny but they were brilliant.

[@stevetritle2101]

I bought a rust free YJ for $5k recently that is nearly identical to your TJ. I have a manual trans. This series is great and I’m watching it closely!!

[@NL-in6uj]

I love stock jeeps, especially the older TJ and YJ's. My 2015 JKU just has a set of BFG All terrains and that's all I've ever needed in the mud, rocks or snow

[@takayama1638]

I like it. Looks like the old WWII Jeeps. And, like y'all said, a bit affordable. A friend bought one like in, 1995, paid $17,000 new. Only used it to go to local stores, never has been even on a dirt road. Gave it to his grandson last summer. I noticed that's a Rare Two State® Jeep. Capable of straddling state lines

[@Flydevice1]

Instantly recognized the area. I’ve been dirtbike riding there and it like 10 mins away from my house. 👍🏻

[@r1eaterr]

It’s like a mini rubicon without any of the things that make it a rubicon. Love it. Keep up the good work.

[@johnwalker3263]

Thanks for the level camera when climbs the rocks! It was actually impressive without having to exaggerate with the camera!

[@PatrickRich]

I was amazed how well a stock 2.5l TJ with the 5 speed and open diffs did when we did lockhart basin a year or so ago. Sure we had to stack a lot of rocks for the really tricky parts but what it did on 31 inch tires versus the bigger tired trucks was impressive.

[@lucastherexcat]

Had a 95 Rio Grande Wrangler, soft top, bone stock. Put factory size trail friendly tires on it. Fun lightweight run around vehicle, dependable, beach and off road friendly. Great second FUN car.