My 2004 TJ is paid off. That alone makes it better than a Jeep costing 4 times as much. I plan to keep it as long as possible as it’s a second vehicle for me. Good video thanks!
I put about $5,000 into my 04 TJ and upgraded gears and installed lockers, the last trail I was on it kept up and out performed many $40k + rigs..... It is lighter and like a billy goat lol
Personally the straight 6 with a manual and 33's is the perfect combo for a off roader. Its not the best ofr highway/ steep climbing but the difficulty (to drive) to what you can acctually do in the car's ratio is perfect
If you’re Jeeping as a hobby. Get a TJ. The simplicity of the mechanical and electronic systems and solid aftermarket support make them fun to maintain and modify.
@@richardwheeler3768 Jeep TJ if you want something very versatile. The armor and lifts are pretty cheap now in comparison to the JK and JL customizations.
Love this comment. So true. My buddy got a TJ with a 4.0 v6. Only 85k miles on it for 5500. He put about 4 grand into it and he's never had any issue with it other than the occasional CV busted on a rock and a hole in the oil pan lol.
Bought my 2004 LJ about 4 yrs ago with 47K miles. Love the simplicity of the vehicle and I can do most of the maintenance myself. I’m an old school VW kind of guy so I have no problem with not having the latest and greatest.
@@cavman250 I'll go with my '05 TJ Rocky Mtn, never cared for the LJ, it just looks off and somewhat goofy. I'm a traditionalist and think a Jeep should honor the Willys MB short wheel base configuration to be considered a true Jeep. The rest is well, the rest, miscellaneous vehicles.
@Liberty just do it slowly over time. The money you will save on the monthly payment adds up. A few years down the road you would have a TJ that would kick ass
I picked up a 98 TJ just over a year ago. Needed a new top, tires and exhaust, but runs great. Sits on a terraflex boost lift and 32" Deegan 38 tires. The lift was already on when I got it along with being regeared. Just turned 220000 miles on the 4.0 engine with a 5 speed manual.
Two month's ago I did just that. Picked up an 04 TJ Rubicon, manual, for roughly $13,600. After TTL it was close to $15k. Still less than a Mahindra Roxor plus it's street legal. Perfect as my weekend off roader and occasional daily.
Of course the Rubicon TJ Is going to compete with the new JK sport the Rubicon TJ has lockers just like the JK Rubicon if you going against the JK Sport the TJ would have the advantage off of the lockers because of it being the Rubicon edition think people
I happen to have a $15k tj Rubicon that I love. I am willing to bet I can go wherever the jk can, and i wont be upset if i get a scratch. Plus I'll take the online 6 tractor motor over any v6 any day. bet mines still running when those tjs start to crap out! Either way, they are all better than toyotas! 😂 Cool video, thanks for making
I have a 2004 LJ, I wouldn’t trade it for the newer model. I like the simplicity of it and the fact that I can work on it. I don’t want traction control or power locks and doors if I wanted that stuff I’d buy a car. My TJ is 15 years old and I hope to drive it 15 more. I’ve always maintained it well, it has 80k miles on it so it should last another 15 years I hope.
I am with you. I have a 2005 TJ Rubicon. It is a third vehicle and it sucks paying for insurance and maintenance, but I just can't get rid of it. Everyone talks about the lack of comforts and the ruggedness of how they drive, but that is what I like about it-it is a Jeep.
rl Avery -keep up w maintenance and, depending where you live, (Im in the NE) it’ll go another 15 years, easily. My TJ is a about to turn 200k and honestly, you’d never know till you look at the odometer. Salt / rust is the true TJ killer. Loads of them up here corroding to their demise.
I also own a 6 speed 2005 LJ “Rubihara” and absolutely love it. It’s simple, great to drive and simple to work on. Don’t really care for the 4 door and all those extra creature comforts. Still, both are jeeps so great vehicles.
A lot of older people call them cars because of the wheelbase considering that’s what labeled cars/ trucks back in the day if you look through a old dealer book jeeps are listed as cars
Just replaced my 1997 TJ 2.5L with a 2015 Wrangler limited production Freedom. Wow! The Freedom package is a significant upgrade over a Sport or Sport S. I bought my 2015 from Carmax. I didn’t know it had the Freedom package option until I arrived at the dealership. I knew the instant I got in it and started the motor I was goanna buy it. I’ve had it for a little over a week now……love it…love it….love it! I’m ex military so I find the freedom package Oscar Mike version extra special.
I have a jk and would never give it to anybody and the 3.6 260/290 hp so far has the power to go almost any where i wish and tfl’s idea of modded is not even close to mine
I own two CJs and I have so much fun driving them. The CJ5 is a good weekend rig and the CJ8 is an every day driver and every time I pull into a gas station I get questioned about them, they are just old school cool. I’m not sure this video is a fair comparison. I can get any part I need for my CJs and would say the same is true for the TJs. Lastly, why didn’t y’all drive the TJ back up the rocks? I’m sure it would have made it.
How was this even a fair comparison? You get the worst version of a tj and put it up against the jk? An automatic 4 cylinder tj is a dog stock and then you put the big wheels on it and expect it to get better? They definitely could have found a manual 6 cylinder to at least make it a fair fight.
Considering the TJ was 1/4 the cost, it kept up quite nicely on the trails. The biggest advantages of the JK seemed to be more room, better on road manners, and creature comforts- which is all quite frankly true.
I had a Wrangler Islander YJ that I bought new in 89. I babied it as my daily driver and only took it off-road a handful of times, but it lasted me a good 13 years. To this day I still miss the Jeep wave. Wish I kept it as a second vehicle.
@@vigilantemotors I factory ordered it. I remember they came in either red, yellow, blue, or white. It was a beauty in bright red with a grey soft top. I wonder what its worth today. Cosmetically it was so perfect because I garage kept it and never offroaded. It just started leaking oil at around 90k miles, and I was in college at the time and needed a daily dependable driver so I traded it in on a Mazda Tribute.
@@CaboWabotv I bet it was a beauty too. I think my favorite wrangler is the YJ and nothing was better than the Islander. I would say the yellow and red were the two best
Once the war was over, Jeep manufactured vehicles for everyday civilian use, but the Wrangler nameplate wasn't born until 1986. • Civilian Jeep (CJ) 1944-1986. ... • Jeep Wrangler YJ 1986-1995. ... • Jeep Wrangler TJ 1996-2006. ... • Jeep Wrangler JK 2006-2018. ... • Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-Present.
@@jbhk7977 I appreciate you taking the time to respond! *6 of the most interesting and fun facts about Jeeps.* • The Seven-Slot Grille Was Once 13. •WW2 Jeeps Were Used as Train Cars. • Jeep Colors Were Inspired by a Trash Can •Wranglers Reached Popularity in the Late '80s. •Jeep is a Presidential Brand. •Ford Made Contributions to the First Jeep.
I went from a CJ to a TJ to a JK in the span of thirty years. Each was my daily driver, and every incarnation was miles more comfortable than the last. My current JKU with 315 70 17 tires with 4.10 gears and two inch lift averages 17.5 MPG.
Oi, Tommy, you brought up the limited slip diff as an advantage in your JK, but then when you attacked the uphill obstacle, you never used it because you floored it too hard... Ease off, go very light on the throttle, give it a moment to kick in, and you'll see a world of a difference. If you just floor it like that, it will just remain open like the TJ.
It was a good send though, that's the way I wheel my Grand Cherokees with open diffs. Lots of speed and wheel spin! Just gotta be careful not to break axles.
If traction fails, use momentum! Works most of the time! I manage to follow my dad in his Jeep Rubicon through mud and snow in my stock 2008 Dodge Ram 1500, and I’ve only been stuck once!
You guys are the Batman and Robin of ‘off road” Tommy is extremely knowledgeable. I have an ‘09 Grand Cherokee Laredo Limited and I now want an ‘06 Wrangler TJ 4.0. Thanks guys!
I love my '93 YJ ... It is my daily driver .. I drive it to work and back ... I drive it to the trail and back. Mine has the 4.0L HO with 5 speed so it's fun to drive in traffic. Gas millage isn't great but it's not horrible .. 4" lift with 31's soon to be 33's. and it handles great. These older Wranglers aren't for everyone, but if you can put up with driving a farm truck on the road and not be in any real hurry to get anywhere, they are fun to drive and have a cool factor that the newer Wranglers don't have. I always tell my Friends it's the most awesomely unpractical vehicle to own LOL
I agree. My 95 Sahara is my daily driver as well. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I have the hard top/full steel door combo for winter, and I have the soft top/half door combo for spring, summer, and fall. It has a 4 inch lift with 33x10.5's on it. Looks great, rides great. When you drive around just smiling, you know you have the right vehicle.
Agree, Driving my beloved half doors/soft/Bikini top 94 YJ from April to November, and my not so much loved 14 KL from December to March, guess what I'm enjoying more... But driving a Wrangler (or CJ) is always great, regardless of the model / year
I have a 95 yj with a 6” lift and 33’s, but it’s not my daily driver. The 4 cylinder is pretty under powered but I love driving it around. Yj for the win!
Gotta say I’m pull’n for the ole gal! She’s a Jeep and a lil looker! I wouldn’t buy one m, a lil small and a lot expensive, but I think we’re gonna see a ton of these Jeep Pickups on the road, the best thing about Jeepers is they always stop and ask are you ok, never met a bad person driving a Jeep!
I've watched this a couple of times. I can't help wondering what the outcome would be if the Jeep had lockers and the straight 6. It would still be much cheaper than a modern jeep. The TJ was the last one that still looked like a "jeep". The current ones look like a tall SUV, not a jeep.
Yeah Jeeps were never meant for "creature comforts". The Jeep is military phonics for GP. General purpose for off road through the middle of the woods. To me the new ones ate Smavs... Soccer Mom Assault Vehicles. Hell my first Jeep was a CJ five with total soft doors and the top snapped on and leaked with no ac or power steering with a metal dash with one big Gauge cluster in the center and 4 on the floor.no carpet and vinyl seats but it had heat and defrost. It was not a comfortable ride or comfortable with 95 degrees in the rain either but I wish I still had it over my current TJ.
I have an '05 TJ that is very comfortable because I have Fox 2.0 Shox and Old Man Emu coils giving this TJ a high quality suspension. Love the 4.0 I6, 3.73 gears, lsd, Dana 44, 32" ko2's with a 2.5" lift. Built perfectly for what I do, beach wheelin, beach camping, surf fishing and hitting great moderate trails in the fall getting to my family's favorite fishing holes and camp sites. The TJ is the last true generation of Jeep. '07 - present are plastic garbage awkward, goofy looking heeps! Especially those abomination 4 doors! O|||||||O 🇺🇲 Only in a 2 Dr 🇺🇸 '41 - '06
I don't even have to watch the video to say the best Jeep it the one that you can afford to take offroad. I had a ton of fun in my 1998 4 Banger TJ that I purchased for 8 grand in 2000 and then put another $3 grand in upgrades. But my Jeep took several years to build and I did every on a budget to fit my 33X9.50 tires inside the fender flares and a PowerTrax locker in the rear. My only issue was the overall lack of power on the highway. So I let it go and stuck with my 1992 XJ for a few more years. At the end of the day, the goal is to do the following: 1. Enjoy the adventure. This includes both the trail rides and building the Jeep in your driveway. 2. Stay within your budget. You can have fun at every price level. Don't blow the budget on a Rubicon. You want to have fun. 3. Plan your build. Take your Jeep off road with a group and see what other Jeeps can do and plan on what you want your Jeep to be. 4. Learn about the tools. Building a Jeep is as much about wrenching as making the Jeep. I used this as an excuse to learn how to weld. 5. Enjoy the adventure. Owning a Jeep is about the adventure. So this is the first and last thing on the list. It does not take a big budget to enjoy the outdoors. It takes a willingness to learn and improve your rig. And most of all, you don't need a CJ or Wrangler to do this. Look for an old XJ for half the price of a TJ or YJ and enjoy the adventure of being off road. It is not about the money. It is about learning and the fellowship of the Jeep community.
My bf has a TJ. 97. has Snorkel, Detroit lockers front and rear, 5 speed manual, chipped inline 6 motor with headers, 35" tires, 10,000 winch. 2" body lift, and 4" short arm suspension lift. fast back top. It goes everywhere with no problem.
That 10k was including the purchase price. They went for tires first because it was necessary and the most practical. Since they were doing that, and had very worn suspension, they did a lift to go with it. Other than that, they spray painted a few things and straightened out the bumper. I'm sure if they were going to do anything else with big money, they'd look at lockers.
I love this series. My FIRST car was a 1984 CJ-7 straight 6 automatic. I learned to drive it starting at 12 years old on South Padre Island! I now have a F150, prius, and accent. The Beach is calling my back with my F150 near Houston. The Jeeps and Roxors are both making my drool.
14:51 You can get plenty of aftermarket parts for the TJ too. Vendors like Quadratec and Extreme Terrain have lots of TJ parts and they keep adding more to their catalogue
Yeah you right hell I have a 77 Cj5 and there are plenty of aftermarket upgrades. The only disadvantage is engine parts , well certain things . Like I can't get rubber valve cover gaskets nor oil pan gaskets. Plus what is available for the V8s will cost you . Still love my old Jeep , lot of fun . When I bought it , basically it was stock . I stretched the front axle 1 1/2 inches foward . Pulled the rear back 1" and bought a D44 . Next thing I'm up grading will be front axle . Wanting to install electric lockers.
@@craigquann well even that winter rated BFG on TJ are hard in winter... thats why i change BFG on Coopers ST/Maxx (better mud, grass, winter traction). but air down is major problem there, they not even flex at all.
I’m always amazed at how expensive new Jeep Wranglers have gotten. Back in 2001 I bought a brand new Sahara , which at the time was the top Wrangler offering, for $26,000. All the bells and whistles at the time (a/c , dual tops , 44 rear , etc ).
I just bought a 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara one owner & I love it & yes it's a JK because I needed it for are service dogs & thank yall for the videos & God Bless yall.
I can afford to break a TJ. A JK or JL is a bit more pricey. And personal opinion a Tj has all of the electronics it needs and none that aren’t needed for me.
Ouch my JKs were reliable just expensive. Yeah if you don’t get 300k miles let alone kilometers you did something wrong. Plus they’re easier to diagnose if you do have a fault.
TJ is hands down better if you choose the right mods. You can get all the same creature comforts in your TJ with mods that still ends up cheaper than the JK and you don't end up looking like a mini hummer.
The more mechanics that I talk to that know jeeps keep telling me the flatline 6 cyl TJ is a far superior engine. Much easier to work on with with way less problems so needless to say that's what I bought and happy I did.
I have had my TJ since 1996. It is a 1997 I bought late 1996. We have been through so much together. There is no way the JK and JL could ever last this long or be this durable. All these years, there has never been a major repair to my aging TJ. I love her so much. She is my love, my life, my dream come true. She has the AMC 242ci inline six engine with 403,000 miles on the odometer. After almost 24 years together, there is no way I could ever part with my beloved.
I have a1972 CJ5 purchased new in April 72..with original 304 cid V8 and T18 4spd..Dana 44 rear axle w/3.73 gears..I have added Detroit tru track up front and a Detroit locker in the 44..been loving it for 47 years now..Would love to see one of these old dinosaurs equipped like mine up against one of those new Jeeps..thanks for the channel..you guys do a great job...
Time for a cheap turbo install and a cheap gear change and locker install I go cheap I do all my own labor would be a great project for son and dad is that a Jeep More bumper on the jk I have one on mine and was checking out your tag mount
Yeah jeeps are a great secondary vehicle. I loved my 06 Tj but hated daily driving it. Everyone’s best bet is to buy a less expensive Jeep and do all the cool mods that make it miserable on the road and enjoy it when you drive it. Rather than compromise and buy a nice Jeep that rides moderately better and you are scared to off-road and hurt it.
Their fine daily drivers if you aren’t on the highway for your commute. Personally, the gas mileage doesn’t seem that bad, especially given the fact more than half of America drives V8 powered pickups...
😃😃😃. The turn signal change came with the TJ.... The CJ had them under the headlights like the Willie's. They went back to "that iconic" style 😁 All Jeeps Matter!
I did too. Completely pointless comparison. "Hey guys, lets compare these two rifles and answer the age old question of 'which one is best?', by the way, we are going to compare a single shot to a full auto."
I love the upgrades that you have done on your "Cheap Jeep", but I still love my new, Sarge Green, 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport, 4 door, 2.0 turbo with 8-speed automatic transmission & hard top.
I agree 100%. Been off-roading with friends who boasted about their big engine and proved to them that that nothing mattered but the traction from the tire to the ground
The whole point was to prove that you can go offroad with little money, that's why they got an automatic 2.5, because it was cheaper, and this is called CHEAP jeep challenge.
I just bought a '99 TJ 2.5L 5-speed two weeks ago with 154K miles. I'm calling it, "Ugly TJ." RC 3.5" lift with progressive springs and beefy lower arms going on today. Traded some IT work for the suspension installation. I had been looking for the right off-road Jeep for a few months. Your Cheap Jeep Challenge really hit home with me. Love the series.
As a life long Jeep guy I feel that bringing the 4 cylinder TJ to this fight is really poor judgment. I'm going to assume that it's also an automatic. Which means you guys know what you are doing. This video brought to you by Fiat
Great video ... I had a stock 99 Jeep Wrangler TJ that was in show room condition that I purchased for $5,500, lots of fun to drive. Then sold it for a 2007 Jeep Wrangler jk 4door fully build that I paid $15,000 ... lots of fun too but now I’m back to a 2001 Jeep Wrangler TJ because they are cheaper but yet you can still trail behind any other new Jeep with out spending double or triple amount of money.
If you stick with cheap Jeep would you consider a cheaper winch. Suck as badlands or rough country. I’d love to see how they work for you. Warn is great but really expensive
Hey Tommy and Roman, Another great video! FWIW: Cheap Jeep for weekend rock roller. For everyday driver + some weekend fun: Cheap Jeep + reliable car. Don't hate me.
I own a 95 yj 2.5 liter 5 speed manual and it goes wherever i want it. Only added a mishimoto aftermarket radiator and exhaust with walmart special tires(Dexteros lol) Offroad it does excellent unless youre rock climbing. Almost every weekend were driving thru the plattriver to park on the submerged sandbars and chill. I can honestly say if i git stuck i was doin something i knew damn good and well i shouldnt have been.
My first jeep was a CJ7 with a 258 cu.in. straight six and four speed manual. I added a clifford research intake manifold, doug thorley header a 550 cfm holly 4 barrel, upgrades to the ignition system... and on... Still the top speed was 70 due to the low gearing.
My 2004 TJ is paid off. That alone makes it better than a Jeep costing 4 times as much. I plan to keep it as long as possible as it’s a second vehicle for me. Good video thanks!
Exactly $$$
I put about $5,000 into my 04 TJ and upgraded gears and installed lockers, the last trail I was on it kept up and out performed many $40k + rigs..... It is lighter and like a billy goat lol
the best jeep is the jeep in your garage
Hello James true
Hello James your so right! My jk rubicon has everything i need
Which Jeep is best Jeep?
😥 thanks bro
I’m very happy with my ‘16 JKU Willys 😎
I’m rooting for the 40k Jeep because if the cheep Jeep wins I’m going to feel pretty stupid for having a 40k Jeep lol
Slingsomelead Rubicon?
It may be equal in off-roading but overall is a much nicer vehicle
@@thehayman7352 new jeeps are for millennial snowflakes............. The tj is for real jeepers.....
I bought my TJ cost less then theirs and mine is a 5 speed 4.0L.
NovaScotiaNewfie No not even lol it’s a Willy’s. But buy the time I got the winch,bumper,lift,wheels, tires and so on I’m over 40!
Personally the straight 6 with a manual and 33's is the perfect combo for a off roader. Its not the best ofr highway/ steep climbing but the difficulty (to drive) to what you can acctually do in the car's ratio is perfect
If you’re Jeeping as a hobby. Get a TJ. The simplicity of the mechanical and electronic systems and solid aftermarket support make them fun to maintain and modify.
I have my 2004 and love it. still under 60k original miles.
Thanks for this comment. I'm currently considering getting into Jeeping, and can't really afford $40K.
@@richardwheeler3768 Jeep TJ if you want something very versatile. The armor and lifts are pretty cheap now in comparison to the JK and JL customizations.
@@lex_one-two Thanks for the suggestion.
Love this comment. So true. My buddy got a TJ with a 4.0 v6. Only 85k miles on it for 5500. He put about 4 grand into it and he's never had any issue with it other than the occasional CV busted on a rock and a hole in the oil pan lol.
What the heck! You need a 4.0 TJ for this challenge not the 2.5 TJ.
They could r2.8 the tj easily..
Yep. This comparison makes no sense. They could have easily found a TJ for $10k for the comparo.
Exactly. This video is pointless for that reason.
I sadly bought a 2.5l 95. But ot hasn't failed me.
Seems like most of their comparisons aren't fair or even. Like putting a stock tire SUV up agains a Jeep with aftermarket tires and lockers.
Bought my 2004 LJ about 4 yrs ago with 47K miles. Love the simplicity of the vehicle and I can do most of the maintenance myself. I’m an old school VW kind of guy so I have no problem with not having the latest and greatest.
A lot of the Wrangler community feel the LJ is the very best Wrangler ever made....I'm inclined to agree.
Tj
@@cavman250 I'll go with my '05 TJ Rocky Mtn, never cared for the LJ, it just looks off and somewhat goofy. I'm a traditionalist and think a Jeep should honor the Willys MB short wheel base configuration to be considered a true Jeep. The rest is well, the rest, miscellaneous vehicles.
I have an 06 LJ with only 55k.
Been a good rig. Has Dana 60s under it now so it’s a reliable trail rig
No thanks I'll keep my TJ, I refuse to pay 40k plus for a jeep.
Very plus these days.
TJ is the best model jeep ever
Most certainly!
TJ comes with 30k cash to drop on accessories.
@Liberty just do it slowly over time. The money you will save on the monthly payment adds up. A few years down the road you would have a TJ that would kick ass
I picked up a 98 TJ just over a year ago. Needed a new top, tires and exhaust, but runs great. Sits on a terraflex boost lift and 32" Deegan 38 tires. The lift was already on when I got it along with being regeared. Just turned 220000 miles on the 4.0 engine with a 5 speed manual.
As far as bang for the buck and performance, a good used $15,000 TJ Rubicon would hold its own very nicely.
Two month's ago I did just that. Picked up an 04 TJ Rubicon, manual, for roughly $13,600. After TTL it was close to $15k. Still less than a Mahindra Roxor plus it's street legal. Perfect as my weekend off roader and occasional daily.
Of course the Rubicon TJ Is going to compete with the new JK sport the Rubicon TJ has lockers just like the JK Rubicon if you going against the JK Sport the TJ would have the advantage off of the lockers because of it being the Rubicon edition think people
I happen to have a $15k tj Rubicon that I love. I am willing to bet I can go wherever the jk can, and i wont be upset if i get a scratch. Plus I'll take the online 6 tractor motor over any v6 any day. bet mines still running when those tjs start to crap out! Either way, they are all better than toyotas! 😂 Cool video, thanks for making
I have a 2005 jeep tj rubicon
The TJ was pre- soccer mom jeep
I have a 2004 LJ, I wouldn’t trade it for the newer model. I like the simplicity of it and the fact that I can work on it. I don’t want traction control or power locks and doors if I wanted that stuff I’d buy a car. My TJ is 15 years old and I hope to drive it 15 more. I’ve always maintained it well, it has 80k miles on it so it should last another 15 years I hope.
I am with you. I have a 2005 TJ Rubicon. It is a third vehicle and it sucks paying for insurance and maintenance, but I just can't get rid of it. Everyone talks about the lack of comforts and the ruggedness of how they drive, but that is what I like about it-it is a Jeep.
rl Avery -keep up w maintenance and, depending where you live, (Im in the NE) it’ll go another 15 years, easily. My TJ is a about to turn 200k and honestly, you’d never know till you look at the odometer. Salt / rust is the true TJ killer. Loads of them up here corroding to their demise.
Mine is also a 2004.
I also own a 6 speed 2005 LJ “Rubihara” and absolutely love it. It’s simple, great to drive and simple to work on. Don’t really care for the 4 door and all those extra creature comforts. Still, both are jeeps so great vehicles.
I have an 06 TJ sport. Would never give it up.
I'm I the only person that was waiting for the tj to attempt the uphill drive following the jk?
RIGHT..Wtf
Count me in. I think it would have done much better to be honest....
@@isaaccohen3961 yes its lighter! and the jk looked like open diff to me :D
They did not want to show the TJ drive right up the rocks and show up their precious grocery getter.
yea that was kinda lame to not even try...
Can’t go wrong with either but I love the TJ. Reminds me of CJ’s and YJ’s
There is absolutely no reason for the music in this video to be so damn good. I'm impressed and couldn't stop watching!
Calling a Jeep a car will make you fall down in the wilderness
And he just drowned another cat. 😾
LOL!
God just killed a puppy.
A lot of older people call them cars because of the wheelbase considering that’s what labeled cars/ trucks back in the day if you look through a old dealer book jeeps are listed as cars
Also old ford broncos 1st gen 69-77 are considered cars to. Mine sits on 10inchs of lift and 40x12s trust me I know it’s not a car
I love my 2006 4.0L TJ Unlimited (aka LJ) with my Limited Slip Diff upgrades. Granted the upgrade cost me $2500 bu it was totally worth it.
Just replaced my 1997 TJ 2.5L with a 2015 Wrangler limited production Freedom. Wow! The Freedom package is a significant upgrade over a Sport or Sport S. I bought my 2015 from Carmax. I didn’t know it had the Freedom package option until I arrived at the dealership. I knew the instant I got in it and started the motor I was goanna buy it.
I’ve had it for a little over a week now……love it…love it….love it! I’m ex military so I find the freedom package Oscar Mike version extra special.
I love my "93 YJ. My 12 year old enjoys Jeep waving and when the top is off everybody waves and gives us thumbs up 👍
I love my 95 YJ as well very capable vehicle and just fun to drive.
If someone gave me a JK I’d sell it and buy 2 TJs
I sell it and buy 3 YJs
I have a jk and would never give it to anybody and the 3.6 260/290 hp so far has the power to go almost any where i wish and tfl’s idea of modded is not even close to mine
Lol
@@mjchunter8581 I see your three YJs and raise you a fleet of beater CJs to spend my weekends fixing up.
The TJ is the lean mean machine. The jk like present day society got fatter and wider. I'll take my TJ Rocky Mtn over any just kidding jeep.
I ran 31 inch K02 tires on my 2004 TJ for years and was never disappointed. Great on the road, great on the trail.
I own two CJs and I have so much fun driving them. The CJ5 is a good weekend rig and the CJ8 is an every day driver and every time I pull into a gas station I get questioned about them, they are just old school cool.
I’m not sure this video is a fair comparison. I can get any part I need for my CJs and would say the same is true for the TJs.
Lastly, why didn’t y’all drive the TJ back up the rocks? I’m sure it would have made it.
Hemmings, motor news just called the TJ the modern collectible.
How was this even a fair comparison? You get the worst version of a tj and put it up against the jk? An automatic 4 cylinder tj is a dog stock and then you put the big wheels on it and expect it to get better? They definitely could have found a manual 6 cylinder to at least make it a fair fight.
comparison not competition ;)
Considering the TJ was 1/4 the cost, it kept up quite nicely on the trails. The biggest advantages of the JK seemed to be more room, better on road manners, and creature comforts- which is all quite frankly true.
Not to mention BFG A/T's are over priced mall crawler tires.. I'd rather have cheep cooper M/T.
Exactly what I thought. Why not at least look for a manual transmission.
do you know how much a good condition straight 6 jeep costs? lol this is the cheap jeep challenge.
I had a Wrangler Islander YJ that I bought new in 89. I babied it as my daily driver and only took it off-road a handful of times, but it lasted me a good 13 years. To this day I still miss the Jeep wave. Wish I kept it as a second vehicle.
Cabo, those YJ Islanders are rare nowadays. I bet it was a beauty. What color?
@@vigilantemotors It was red
@@CaboWabotv Awesome color too. The red and the yellow Islanders were the best 2 colors
@@vigilantemotors I factory ordered it. I remember they came in either red, yellow, blue, or white. It was a beauty in bright red with a grey soft top. I wonder what its worth today. Cosmetically it was so perfect because I garage kept it and never offroaded. It just started leaking oil at around 90k miles, and I was in college at the time and needed a daily dependable driver so I traded it in on a Mazda Tribute.
@@CaboWabotv I bet it was a beauty too. I think my favorite wrangler is the YJ and nothing was better than the Islander. I would say the yellow and red were the two best
I'd take the rear seats out of the TJ and move the seat mounts a bit further back. Less weight, more leg room and more storage space.
Once the war was over, Jeep manufactured vehicles for everyday civilian use, but the Wrangler nameplate wasn't born until 1986.
• Civilian Jeep (CJ) 1944-1986. ...
• Jeep Wrangler YJ 1986-1995. ...
• Jeep Wrangler TJ 1996-2006. ...
• Jeep Wrangler JK 2006-2018. ...
• Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-Present.
@@h2w25 What does that have to do with the post your respond to?
@@jbhk7977 I appreciate you taking the time to respond!
*6 of the most interesting and fun facts about Jeeps.*
• The Seven-Slot Grille Was Once 13.
•WW2 Jeeps Were Used as Train Cars.
• Jeep Colors Were Inspired by a Trash Can
•Wranglers Reached Popularity in the Late '80s.
•Jeep is a Presidential Brand.
•Ford Made Contributions to the First Jeep.
@@h2w25 Huh? Dude, read my comment please.
I spent $15k for a TJ Rubicon and crushes both these with front and rear 44s with lockers, 6 speed manual and killer t-case.
Spent 30 on jk sport has bigger 44 rear and rock jock 44 front also larger and stronger than rubi
I have a 02 tj 4 banger 5speed and love it. Its my hunting rig. Gets me where I need to go.
I praised the TJ with the 4.0 six until the JK came out with the 3.6. My JKU is now my all time favorite.
I went from a CJ to a TJ to a JK in the span of thirty years. Each was my daily driver, and every incarnation was miles more comfortable than the last. My current JKU with 315 70 17 tires with 4.10 gears and two inch lift averages 17.5 MPG.
surprised the Jeep lovers haven't blasted you on this, but you are so right.
I dont know what you're talking about I think the stance on the TJ is beautiful!
Oi, Tommy, you brought up the limited slip diff as an advantage in your JK, but then when you attacked the uphill obstacle, you never used it because you floored it too hard... Ease off, go very light on the throttle, give it a moment to kick in, and you'll see a world of a difference. If you just floor it like that, it will just remain open like the TJ.
And air down first...
It was a good send though, that's the way I wheel my Grand Cherokees with open diffs. Lots of speed and wheel spin! Just gotta be careful not to break axles.
Good advice.
If traction fails, use momentum! Works most of the time! I manage to follow my dad in his Jeep Rubicon through mud and snow in my stock 2008 Dodge Ram 1500, and I’ve only been stuck once!
He has lockers installed, I think he was just trying to show stock performance, and he definitely knows how to drive!
You guys are the Batman and Robin of ‘off road” Tommy is extremely knowledgeable. I have an ‘09 Grand Cherokee Laredo Limited and I now want an ‘06 Wrangler TJ 4.0. Thanks guys!
I love my '93 YJ ... It is my daily driver .. I drive it to work and back ... I drive it to the trail and back. Mine has the 4.0L HO with 5 speed so it's fun to drive in traffic. Gas millage isn't great but it's not horrible .. 4" lift with 31's soon to be 33's. and it handles great. These older Wranglers aren't for everyone, but if you can put up with driving a farm truck on the road and not be in any real hurry to get anywhere, they are fun to drive and have a cool factor that the newer Wranglers don't have. I always tell my Friends it's the most awesomely unpractical vehicle to own LOL
I would take YJ over any other Wrangler! Just got that something! :-)
I agree. My 95 Sahara is my daily driver as well. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I have the hard top/full steel door combo for winter, and I have the soft top/half door combo for spring, summer, and fall. It has a 4 inch lift with 33x10.5's on it. Looks great, rides great. When you drive around just smiling, you know you have the right vehicle.
Agree, Driving my beloved half doors/soft/Bikini top 94 YJ from April to November, and my not so much loved 14 KL from December to March, guess what I'm enjoying more...
But driving a Wrangler (or CJ) is always great, regardless of the model / year
I have a 95 yj with a 6” lift and 33’s, but it’s not my daily driver. The 4 cylinder is pretty under powered but I love driving it around. Yj for the win!
91’ YJ 4 cylinder 5 speed is the Jeep that got me interested not only in the Jeep company, but in the automotive industry in the first place!
I'd like to see a cheap locker in the cheap Jeep. It'd be interesting to see how much it helps off road, and if it affects driving on road.
Gotta say I’m pull’n for the ole gal! She’s a Jeep and a lil looker! I wouldn’t buy one m, a lil small and a lot expensive, but I think we’re gonna see a ton of these Jeep Pickups on the road, the best thing about Jeepers is they always stop and ask are you ok, never met a bad person driving a Jeep!
Really enjoying this series I like the father-son relationship and how they just have fun with vehicles
In ten years the TJ will be worth more than the JK 😉
My buddy just sold his 2007 JK for 8k. Finding a quality TJ for 8k is already getting hard.
Lol no maybe the 3.8 not 3.6
I've seen TJ Saharas under 5k in miles sell for $27k plus........... And those aren't even the holy Grail of TJs...........
@@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo Stupid people are born every minute to pay that much for a 20 year old vehicle is going to have all kinds of issues is crazy
@@MiguelGarcia-vj7oo only paid 16 for my 99tj sahara in 2000 and 30 for my 14jk sport .
I've watched this a couple of times. I can't help wondering what the outcome would be if the Jeep had lockers and the straight 6. It would still be much cheaper than a modern jeep. The TJ was the last one that still looked like a "jeep". The current ones look like a tall SUV, not a jeep.
Yeah Jeeps were never meant for "creature comforts". The Jeep is military phonics for GP. General purpose for off road through the middle of the woods.
To me the new ones ate Smavs... Soccer Mom Assault Vehicles.
Hell my first Jeep was a CJ five with total soft doors and the top snapped on and leaked with no ac or power steering with a metal dash with one big Gauge cluster in the center and 4 on the floor.no carpet and vinyl seats but it had heat and defrost. It was not a comfortable ride or comfortable with 95 degrees in the rain either but I wish I still had it over my current TJ.
I have an '05 TJ that is very comfortable because I have Fox 2.0 Shox and Old Man Emu coils giving this TJ a high quality suspension. Love the 4.0 I6, 3.73 gears, lsd, Dana 44, 32" ko2's with a 2.5" lift. Built perfectly for what I do, beach wheelin, beach camping, surf fishing and hitting great moderate trails in the fall getting to my family's favorite fishing holes and camp sites. The TJ is the last true generation of Jeep. '07 - present are plastic garbage awkward, goofy looking heeps! Especially those abomination 4 doors!
O|||||||O
🇺🇲 Only in a 2 Dr 🇺🇸
'41 - '06
I have an 04 tj with 4.0 and 5 speed. Love it.
We have had a 04' TJ 5 speed since new and will never get rid of it. It is a beast and so much fun!
I don't even have to watch the video to say the best Jeep it the one that you can afford to take offroad. I had a ton of fun in my 1998 4 Banger TJ that I purchased for 8 grand in 2000 and then put another $3 grand in upgrades. But my Jeep took several years to build and I did every on a budget to fit my 33X9.50 tires inside the fender flares and a PowerTrax locker in the rear. My only issue was the overall lack of power on the highway. So I let it go and stuck with my 1992 XJ for a few more years.
At the end of the day, the goal is to do the following:
1. Enjoy the adventure. This includes both the trail rides and building the Jeep in your driveway.
2. Stay within your budget. You can have fun at every price level. Don't blow the budget on a Rubicon. You want to have fun.
3. Plan your build. Take your Jeep off road with a group and see what other Jeeps can do and plan on what you want your Jeep to be.
4. Learn about the tools. Building a Jeep is as much about wrenching as making the Jeep. I used this as an excuse to learn how to weld.
5. Enjoy the adventure. Owning a Jeep is about the adventure. So this is the first and last thing on the list.
It does not take a big budget to enjoy the outdoors. It takes a willingness to learn and improve your rig. And most of all, you don't need a CJ or Wrangler to do this. Look for an old XJ for half the price of a TJ or YJ and enjoy the adventure of being off road. It is not about the money. It is about learning and the fellowship of the Jeep community.
JK = Logic
TJ = Love
As in digital logic...JL's are practically a robot. God forbid we ever get that electromagnetic pulse bomb that all the prepper community fears....lol
CJ=super sayian jeep
JK = Just Kidding
TJ = True Jeep
@@JeepTJWheelin i loved my TJ i love my JKU to each their own #jeepwave #JeepLife #JeepMafia
TJ = Jeep DNA JK = Dodge-ish
i'm a tall 6' 3" driver of a TJ. Misch 4X4 BigBoy seat mounts are the best mod I ever did for comfort.
Another great episode on this series. Looked like a great father/son day in the snow.
My bf has a TJ. 97. has Snorkel, Detroit lockers front and rear, 5 speed manual, chipped inline 6 motor with headers, 35" tires, 10,000 winch. 2" body lift, and 4" short arm suspension lift. fast back top. It goes everywhere with no problem.
Love the show. But why would you spend $10,000 in upgrades to a jeep and not put in any sort of lockers. Seems strange.
That 10k was including the purchase price. They went for tires first because it was necessary and the most practical. Since they were doing that, and had very worn suspension, they did a lift to go with it. Other than that, they spray painted a few things and straightened out the bumper. I'm sure if they were going to do anything else with big money, they'd look at lockers.
@@TrueNomadSkies I'm talking about the new JK the said they have 10k in upgrades.
Cuz a lunch box locker in either one is just too expensive😝 maybe if they did some work themselves they could save more money
Cuz than you’d be spending 12k not 10k
I love this series. My FIRST car was a 1984 CJ-7 straight 6 automatic. I learned to drive it starting at 12 years old on South Padre Island! I now have a F150, prius, and accent. The Beach is calling my back with my F150 near Houston. The Jeeps and Roxors are both making my drool.
14:51 You can get plenty of aftermarket parts for the TJ too. Vendors like Quadratec and Extreme Terrain have lots of TJ parts and they keep adding more to their catalogue
Yeah you right hell I have a 77 Cj5 and there are plenty of aftermarket upgrades. The only disadvantage is engine parts , well certain things . Like I can't get rubber valve cover gaskets nor oil pan gaskets. Plus what is available for the V8s will cost you . Still love my old Jeep , lot of fun . When I bought it , basically it was stock . I stretched the front axle 1 1/2 inches foward . Pulled the rear back 1" and bought a D44 . Next thing I'm up grading will be front axle . Wanting to install electric lockers.
I bought my 2006 TJ Unlimited (LJ) because it had the 4.0. I love it, it's way easy to work on and a lot less stuff to break.
If he air down tires more he will climb much faster :)
If they were winter rated, that would have helped. The cold makes the rubber as hard as a hockey puck.
@@craigquann well even that winter rated BFG on TJ are hard in winter... thats why i change BFG on Coopers ST/Maxx (better mud, grass, winter traction). but air down is major problem there, they not even flex at all.
@@jakubstrumillo true enough.
Like Bill Belichick?
Yeah my 2006 jeep wrangler works just great on the hills got Netto tires 3.25 lift kit 35 inch tires and had no problems
Your best video ever, why? Minute 11:06 LOL 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 I'm glad you are ok
Yea he biffed it! poor guy
Yeah that was funny glad he’s ok
I laughed out loud....but only because of the sound effects added. LOL
I’m always amazed at how expensive new Jeep Wranglers have gotten. Back in 2001 I bought a brand new Sahara , which at the time was the top Wrangler offering, for $26,000. All the bells and whistles at the time (a/c , dual tops , 44 rear , etc ).
TJ 4.0 with $30k to spend, and you have a Beast that's also easy to work on.
I just bought a 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara one owner & I love it & yes it's a JK because I needed it for are service dogs & thank yall for the videos & God Bless yall.
I can afford to break a TJ. A JK or JL is a bit more pricey. And personal opinion a Tj has all of the electronics it needs and none that aren’t needed for me.
Ouch my JKs were reliable just expensive. Yeah if you don’t get 300k miles let alone kilometers you did something wrong. Plus they’re easier to diagnose if you do have a fault.
TJ is hands down better if you choose the right mods. You can get all the same creature comforts in your TJ with mods that still ends up cheaper than the JK and you don't end up looking like a mini hummer.
Love the old TJ. A locker and you should be golden.
For collectible item, go for 4.0L TJ. It looks classy but not looks old
The more mechanics that I talk to that know jeeps keep telling me the flatline 6 cyl TJ is a far superior engine. Much easier to work on with with way less problems so needless to say that's what I bought and happy I did.
I have a 2000 TJ with a 4.0 I6 and it is so easy to work on.
I have had my TJ since 1996. It is a 1997 I bought late 1996. We have been through so much together. There is no way the JK and JL could ever last this long or be this durable. All these years, there has never been a major repair to my aging TJ. I love her so much. She is my love, my life, my dream come true. She has the AMC 242ci inline six engine with 403,000 miles on the odometer. After almost 24 years together, there is no way I could ever part with my beloved.
I think Roman falling is the highlight of the video 🤣 j/k I hope he didn’t hurt himself!
as he said, just his pride got hurt
I have a1972 CJ5 purchased new in April 72..with original 304 cid V8 and T18 4spd..Dana 44 rear axle w/3.73 gears..I have added Detroit tru track up front and a Detroit locker in the 44..been loving it for 47 years now..Would love to see one of these old dinosaurs equipped like mine up against one of those new Jeeps..thanks for the channel..you guys do a great job...
Either way
J: just
E: empty
E: every
P: pocket
Jeep lmao..
So true
Not cause you have to but because you want to lol
@@vanderz1012 I feel this
@@FlyingFilmsHD the amount of mods I have planned for my JKU I will be emptying my pockets 😂😂
To do an accurate comparison definitely go with the straight 6. Absolute unit of an engine that'll run forever.
Time for a cheap turbo install and a cheap gear change and locker install I go cheap I do all my own labor would be a great project for son and dad is that a Jeep More bumper on the jk I have one on mine and was checking out your tag mount
Bless you Roman slipping, glad you didn't hurt yourself. Fantastic father and son experience (you n tommy, tj n jk). Loving these 👍👍
Without using lockers you can use break throttle manipulation to transfer power to the wheels that can grip
Although I have broken two drive shafts doing that, thinking I was being clever :(
I have a '99 TJ Sport. After doing a lot of research and two years in, I wouldn't have done it any another way. My TJ is a perfect fit.
I would go with the cheaper as a second or third vehicle. Bad ride and gas mileage negatively impacts them as daily drivers.
Spend $400 for a limited slip and it's fully capable.
The right suspension set up and the TJ ride is significantly improved. Cheap lift= crap ride
Fuel mileage isn't that bad all things considered. I daily a TJ with the 6cyl.
Yeah jeeps are a great secondary vehicle. I loved my 06 Tj but hated daily driving it. Everyone’s best bet is to buy a less expensive Jeep and do all the cool mods that make it miserable on the road and enjoy it when you drive it. Rather than compromise and buy a nice Jeep that rides moderately better and you are scared to off-road and hurt it.
Their fine daily drivers if you aren’t on the highway for your commute. Personally, the gas mileage doesn’t seem that bad, especially given the fact more than half of America drives V8 powered pickups...
Jeep is the sh.t but jeep with a lot of electronic is not a Jeep, that you do ourself ❤️
😃😃😃. The turn signal change came with the TJ.... The CJ had them under the headlights like the Willie's.
They went back to "that iconic" style 😁
All Jeeps Matter!
Yeah, he missed that one.
Just like the banter about after market part availability.
I have a 2017 Jeep Wrangler Jk 2 door 4.0L V6 It has 4,000 miles on it and I plan on modifying it next month So Excited!
Would love to see you do some performance engine mods and maybe a locker on the TJ next
My 98 4.0 looks just like that but l have Goodyears. Such a good vehicle, very capable too.
When I got to the part where they told us they were using a 2.5L 4 cylinder TJ, instead of the fantastic 4.0L straight 6, I stopped watching.
Lol no you didn’t
I did too. Completely pointless comparison. "Hey guys, lets compare these two rifles and answer the age old question of 'which one is best?', by the way, we are going to compare a single shot to a full auto."
The whole point is that the 2.5 is much cheaper, that's why they called it the CHEAP jeep challenge.
Yeah for $10k I got a 99’ TJ with a 4.0L that has 86k miles. Much more comparable
No damage just pride favorite part of the video. I’d go for the TJ that Inline 6 it’s a work horse super reliable.
I love my TJR. It will go everywhere but it’s not my dd. I wouldn’t turn down a JLR tho.
I love the upgrades that you have done on your "Cheap Jeep", but I still love my new, Sarge Green, 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport, 4 door, 2.0 turbo with 8-speed automatic transmission & hard top.
Literally a piss poor comparison.
Needs to be a 4.0 because this makes no damn sense.
Not even that the TJ just needs to be a stick. I have a 2.5 l manual yj and it rips
I agree 100%. Been off-roading with friends who boasted about their big engine and proved to them that that nothing mattered but the traction from the tire to the ground
@@coolworkgear9231 it’s the driver and the line
The whole point was to prove that you can go offroad with little money, that's why they got an automatic 2.5, because it was cheaper, and this is called CHEAP jeep challenge.
I just bought a '99 TJ 2.5L 5-speed two weeks ago with 154K miles. I'm calling it, "Ugly TJ." RC 3.5" lift with progressive springs and beefy lower arms going on today. Traded some IT work for the suspension installation. I had been looking for the right off-road Jeep for a few months. Your Cheap Jeep Challenge really hit home with me. Love the series.
Love my TJ but really want a JL for a daily!
Its nice to see 2 Mall Crawlers off road. Neither were aired down, and sway bars still connected.
Great video! Tommy has really become great on camera.
I just left the big C10 clubs after 4 different money pits. Got a 04 TJ my first jeep ever. Best move I ever made.
10:20 Why we didn't see TJ climbing this part? Or did it ever do that?!
I have slowly became a big Jeep fan. I own a 2009 WK and a 98 XJ and now looking forward to getting a minty Wrangler from 1999z
As a life long Jeep guy I feel that bringing the 4 cylinder TJ to this fight is really poor judgment. I'm going to assume that it's also an automatic. Which means you guys know what you are doing.
This video brought to you by Fiat
it was an automatic. Inside you can see the shifter was not a round knob but a "T" handle.
I love learning about the JEEP from you guys. You really give a down to earth review. Thank you!
Would love to own a mint TJ. .....so nice.
A TJ in that solid condition will cost you around $8-$10k where I live. $6500 is a steal...
Great video ...
I had a stock 99 Jeep Wrangler TJ that was in show room condition that I purchased for $5,500, lots of fun to drive. Then sold it for a 2007 Jeep Wrangler jk 4door fully build that I paid $15,000 ... lots of fun too but now I’m back to a 2001 Jeep Wrangler TJ because they are cheaper but yet you can still trail behind any other new Jeep with out spending double or triple amount of money.
If you stick with cheap Jeep would you consider a cheaper winch. Suck as badlands or rough country. I’d love to see how they work for you. Warn is great but really expensive
Bigben1971 smittybilt winch half the cost of warn but still great product.
Thanks I couldn’t think of the name I knew there was another one
Hey Tommy and Roman, Another great video! FWIW: Cheap Jeep for weekend rock roller. For everyday driver + some weekend fun: Cheap Jeep + reliable car. Don't hate me.
good vs, jk would have no chance against 4.0 and dana 44s
I own a 95 yj 2.5 liter 5 speed manual and it goes wherever i want it. Only added a mishimoto aftermarket radiator and exhaust with walmart special tires(Dexteros lol) Offroad it does excellent unless youre rock climbing. Almost every weekend were driving thru the plattriver to park on the submerged sandbars and chill. I can honestly say if i git stuck i was doin something i knew damn good and well i shouldnt have been.
BTW...Inline 6 4.0 manual 5 speed was available way before 2003
Matthew Sassa Photography but he was talking about the 6 speed so...
@@skylineracer329 There was no 6 speed tranny in a 2003 wrangler TJ
My first jeep was a CJ7 with a 258 cu.in. straight six and four speed manual. I added a clifford research intake manifold, doug thorley header a 550 cfm holly 4 barrel, upgrades to the ignition system... and on... Still the top speed was 70 due to the low gearing.
U guys make me want to get a jeep
1994 Jeep Cherokee Sport 5 speed manual with 198,000 miles!The 4.0 is an airplane engine straight 6 200 horsepower awesomeness!