Anyone else remember when the YJ was the most hated Wrangler, due to its square headlights? Now it's a sought after commodity. It's funny how things go.
I never hated mine - I was always happy to own one. I regret selling my ‘91 back in the day. The square headlights never bothered me - the terrible ride did, but it was noticeably better than my cj5!!
Finally a review that tells people how to check the tire DOT codes (the last 4 numbers are the manufacture date and it’s only stamped on one side of the tire). You get a thumbs up for that alone.
Also a thing to look for on the YJ is to make sure the vacuum pump that engages the 4wd is functioning. When my grandfather was trying to figure out why his 4x4 wouldn't work we found that the vacuum pump was bad. Might be worth it to replace it with a manual cable posi lock. If your not sure where it's located, it's on the passenger side located next to the leaf spring. Just make sure the vacuum lines are attached and working
I had this exact same issue, lines were leaking and having issues. Then they were ripped out by a dog trying to eat our cat. Anyways... we ended up putting in the direct drive cable in to remove the vacuum hoses and they work great. Since you can now directly engage the front wheels we now have 4 high, 4 low, 2 high and now 2 low. Whether or not it actually has any use is a different story but it feels great to know I'm not waiting on outdated tech to work or be replaced. www.quadratec.com/products/52435_0100.htm
Matticus K. Better yet, throw in a TJ inner axle, an inner seal, replace vacuum motor with a plate, balance front drive shaft, and your done. Never worry about it again. BTW, wouldn't run 2wd in low range, Dana 35 not up to it.
I had that issue on my 1987 Wrangler. Never realized 4wd wasn’t engaging until pulling my boat out of a ramp I noticed rear wheel spin and no front. Ended up being a disconnected vacuum hose.
Had my 91 for about 22 years. Bought it from a guy in my Jeep Club, the original owner, as it was better setup than my '89 (plus efi vs carter carb!). This was in California, 6 months later we moved back to the UK so i sold the 89 and shipped the 91 here. It's been wheeled in the US, Mexico, England and Wales. Not many can claim that. On it's third engine as the original block cracked during shipping, the XJ engine replacement wore out it's cylinders (went oval shaped) and it's currently using a TJ engine.
Bought my 90 YJ in 2011, did a 4.0l swap and stroked it to a 4.6L, 4 in lift on 31s ,5 speed , bought it as a project and pure summer ride,. Remember what Jeep stands for Just Empty Every Pocket. Love my ride ,cheers
I recently pick me up a 1987 YJ Laredo one owner rig garage kept with only 93,000 miles on it 4.2 auto pretty much original condition I love it so much different than driving my JK
From what I have seen if a YJ frame is going to rot it usually is going to be on the right rear section by the shock, and also the right rear back of the frame. They definitely rot in other places as well, but those are the two most common spots I have seen. Great video my friend, thank you for all the information
I regret selling my Jeep YJ.... It looks almost exactly like the Jeep you have with the winch. I sold it before leaving Colorado Springs a few years ago. I still have the sale slip so I can try and find it when Im ready to buy another.
I have a YJ with a failing transmission. I will not part with it. Only, 1,3,and 5 gear positions work. But it does not matter. I will never part with her. I am ordering two Terminator AX-15 transmissions soon, one for my YJ, one for my TJ. My YJ has the infamous BA10/5. The TJ has the New Venture NV3550 transmission. The NV3550 transmission is great. But New Venture has been defunct for awhile. Parts for the NV3550 are now sourced from mystery sources. I rather replace the venerable New Venture NV3550 with the Terminator AX-15 with Toyota gears. Then the old NV3550 with 409,000 miles will be dismantled and the good parts will be distributed to those with NV3550 that have trouble. The old transmission still works. It just needs synchronisers. Here are my best friends. 1987 Jeep Wrangler YJ Sport (Murphy) 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ Sport (Stargazer) 2012 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited JKU (Spirt of The Low Lands) or (Lola) Stargazer and Lola were both purchased new. My favourite is probably Stargazer.
Don't buy any old jeep if you don't or can't get your hands dirty. Even for an enthusiast sometimes they can be a nightmare maintaining them. Great vehicles but it always comes down to how well they were taken care of before you got it.
I'm looking forward to being at a point in my life that I can have a project car (space, time, money..) and I've told my fiance I'll be getting a jeep. She doesn't like vehicles with a higher center of gravity but I think she'll *fall for it*. :D She doesn't have a choice what I take camping anyway.
I have to say that motor has to be the most reliable motor I've ever owned I got close to 200,000 on it now it's the only vehicle that Evan gets me to the auto parts store to fix everything else I own
I bought my YJ about 7 years ago… it didn’t run ….breaks were shot …. All the seals where leaking… automatic transmission slipped ….. AC didn’t work….Needed shocks… 2 rims were bent …7 years later… put new timing chain in … new seals all underneath… fixed transmission….new breaks….new rims and tires… new shocks and leaf springs… oh and the AC is i’m happy to say blowing cold…..I paid 500 for the jeep…now I wouldn’t sell it for a million bucks I love it so much… it will be for my oldest son when he gets to be a senior in high school… he just doesn’t know it yet…. I will start this process all over again very soon so I will have a vehicle ready when my youngest son is a senior….
This is excellent, thank you. I'm looking at two YJ's today, a 1990 (179k) and a 1994 (156k). They both look nice in the ad. the 1994 needs a pan gasket (ads says oil pan leak, and leaking rear diff).
I have a 1994 with over 179,000 miles. Great vehicle but have had slight oil leak for years. Tried everything but couldn't stop it. Loses very little oil and stops shortly after I park it. Have learned to live with it and use thin sheet of plywood to keep it off the garage floor. Still really like it.
Excellent, wish I've gotten these tips 20 years ago when I bought my first YJ. Never knew about the manufacturing stamp date on the tires, learn something new!
Tip from a yj owner. Check for rust and own a lot of tools. These are 30 year old off road vehicles. It’s going to need more work than a newer vehicle. I bought a 4cyl with ax5. I replaced the ax5 recently with a reman. Mine gets 19mpg pretty easily. I wanted simple as possible which is why I went 4cyl. I’m into crawling around slowly. I replaced all the suspension with 2.5 inch lift springs and rough country heavy duty shocks. Removed the sway bar and track bars front and rear for better flex. New top. New headlights led. New running light sockets. New rear bumper. The guy took out the back seat so I bought a new smittybilt seat and new seatbelts. New dash lights. Radiator had a leak so new installed. New water pump. New hoses. New belt. New thermostat and housing. Valve cover gasket. Good tune up. Differential guards. All new fluids. Cleaned the throttle body. New 02 sensor. New exhaust from cat back. 5 new tires. New clutch and all associated parts. Universal joints. All that just to make it drivable and reliable.
Hey JS I just discovered you here. Ill be subscribing to both of you. could you please do a video on yj torque arms (or transmission stabilizers) Please???
Watching this the day before I meet a guy that is selling a 1989 jeep wrangler Islander that has only 100,000 miles on it. These tips are going to come in handy when I give the jeep a good look.
Here's a tip. It's a 30 year old vehicle. It's gonna need some work. I don't care how good it looks. The last one built was in 1995. They're simple but have some tools and some knowledge because paying someone else to fix it is gonna be very expensive. I have the 2.5/ax5 combo. The transmission was shot when bought it. Had water in the oil and no synchros. I replaced with a reman. Biggest issue I've had is oil leaks. I've replaced about every gasket I can get to and it's like playing wack a mole. You stop one leak and another pops up. I'll probably replace the engine within the next year because I'm just tired of chasing leaks. Previous owner didn't do maintenance at all. Leaf springs were arched backwards so new springs shocks and bushing. Steering is worn so all new parts are going there. Brakes are very old. Exhaust manifold leaked so it got a new gasket. IAC was bad. Throttle body gasket didn't exist so it had a vacuum leak. Clutch slave leaked into the bell housing and wiped out the clutch. Universal joints were all old and crusty. Transfer case seal at rear was badly leaking. The vacuum line for the central axle disconnect had a section that was melted so it didn't have 4x4. 02 sensor went bad. Muffler was horribly smashed. The top was rotted off and what was left fell off somewhere on the way home. Water pump was bad and leaking. Radiator had a couple small holes in it. Fan belt was cracked and squealing. Oil pan leaked. I drove it home through the mountains from eastern Oregon to Eugene with all those problems and it cruised right along.😂
Not going to read all the comments, and apologies if I am repeating something. Good overall video, especially for someone that doesn't know Jeeps or even YJs in particular - they are different. Two pieces of advice about content. The first is that the AX - 5 isn't nearly the headache that an 87 - 88 BA 10/5 will be. Knowing how to identify it (the case) will save thousands. The second is the tire wear piece. Many incorrectly diagnose feathering as cupping, and these are very different. The explanation here is a bit vague. Not a knock, it's a great video. Just some details that could have been added for those that don't know.
look for a soft top that was a summer fun vehicle... i got a 90 out of a barn for $4k, 98k miles, needed nothing but routine fluid changes, etc., had a new top, no rust, so nimble, been plowing with it for 4 years and the 2.5 is great in routine 1-6" snows, even on 1/4 mile uphills, although I break out the powerstroke 250 for heavy 6" or 8"+ fluffy wash it every day during salt use , coat any cracks or rust immediately
I love my Jeep. It was not taken care of. I don't have the upkeep money. I lack experience and any mechanic time, it eats into the road time for work. I have learned much.
I absolutely hated the YJ when it came out. "Yuppie Jeep". Then just out of college starting career my Tacoma burned up and needed a Jeep. I found one that was about 10 yrs old at time a 1992 in 2002. it very well cared for, had a slight lift so it sat about the same height at the CJ5/7 on 31" tires. It was adult owned had a Ramsey Winch ARB bumper everything was done right. So couple things made me love it compared to the CJ5's of the past. First, its road manners was light years ahead of the CJ series. I currently own a 21' Rubicon Gladiator and yes it drives better than my old YJ but not as huge of a difference compared to CJ to YJ. Next, the heater and defroster actually worked. Every old CJ 5 or 7 I was in your feet got warm and that was it, and the defroster was whatever rag or handkerchief you could grab to wipe the window. Five speed on freeway was much nicer than the old gen 3 speeds or 4 with granny gear. The 4.0L inline six was a great motor didn't feel all that less powerful than the early 70's 308 v8 with a two barrel. Sold it to a friend with 295K who drove it to 320K and it was still running like a Swiss watch when he sold it. Lastly, I had only one CJ 5 that had a working speedometer. I know family that had replaced theirs with a VDO all in one Jeep gauges and those worked but AMC factory - Nope. They may not have been the "best looking Jeep". But they were and are a great Jeep.
My son got a '93 YJ, 4.0 for a swap .It drives but came with a bent TC rear shaft; and it's also lifted and has 35" tires. It seems the guy used it for off road most of the time. Since its frame is in great condition and the engine runs well we decided to restore it . I've just bought a SYE , a rear shaft and a master TC rebuilt kit from the" Extreme Terrain".... Also we plan to completely replace the suspension and put a 2.5-3 inch lift and downsize the tires to 32".. We plan to use it for normal driving and occasionally driving on forest roads...
The first car I ever bought new was a red 91 4 cyl YJ. Bone stock base, absolutely no options, not even a radio. I beat the crap out of that YJ off-roading, driving friends around, travelling cross country multiple times and put over 100,000 miles on it without a single issue (didn't even replace clutch until 60,000 miles). I remember in the winter having to put a piece of cardboard in front of the radiator to get more heat (gets cold up here) but man I've regretted selling it ever since.
Ive been a mustang guy for a long time...usually I take my 96 Cherokee sport to get all the parts I need for my builds...I never really got into the jeeps though...only repairing the one I have for a daily driver. Channels like this have shown me a path to a new hobby and I thank you.
I'm looking to buy a soft top jeep wrangler for myself for my birthday, but it does snow in the winter in PA. You made my decision better prepared. Thank you
Thanks for this video! My daughter is gonna be driving in a few years and is really set on a jeep wrangler. So i am going to be looking for one for her, something that i can maybe do a little tlc on before she hits the road in it. Thanks for all the tips!
The pre-‘91 wranglers with the 2.5l throttle body injection are terribly under-powered, especially with a hard top. If you want a 2.5, make sure to get a ‘91 or later with the multi-port injection. They have noticeably more power, but personally I would avoid the 2.5 completely because the AX5 transmission is a indeed a weak point. I replaced mine in my ‘89 at 60k, and had 2 gears and synchros replaced under warranty on my ‘91 at 21k. I wasn’t hard on them by any means, whatsoever. By comparison, the ax15(s) in my TJs have never needed any service besides oil changes. The 4.0 in the YJ is definitely the way to go - I just couldn’t afford one at the time.
I bought a 1990 YJ and it had a whole bunch of sensors on it that could have left me stranded in the wilderness. My friend is a mechanic and he told me this. There's a town called Ellensburg Washington we're a Wrangler about the same year as mine had a sensor go bad. The jeep was there for about six months before they found a sensor for it. We pulled my motor out and put a Ford mustang motor in it and put Ford f250 3 quarter ton differentials under it. But now the steering arms are useless because the holes where the tie rod ends go in or broken. So I'm still looking for steering arm and that will fit and I cannot find them. I would recommend getting something newer than a 1990 for sure.
Absolutely!! Unless they are really cool, their Jeeps usually have not been off-road much, if at all, or beat on. Definitely a good tip right here for somebody considering a Jeep purchase
I had to tune in. I'm about to put my '92 YJ on Craigslist in the Chico/Paradise area here in NoCal and put the money into a '98 XJ I just picked up. I was curious to see if Dale had anything to say that I have not addressed in getting my YJ ready to sell. I think I'm in good stead. Really enjoying your channel!
Great video content. Only owned a Jk but think yjs are pretty cool. I subscribed to both of you guys look forward to more great videos from you guys. TrailRecon videos are some of our favorites.
Both will out perform any same type of truck off road, not just commuting to work. The TJ is just better than the YJ. My YJ was a beast off road, however my TJ will go a few places the YJ would loose traction. Leaf spring vs coil spring
Was hoping for Jeep specific tips, this seems like common things that I guess I take for granted that everyone should know. The one thing that I did learn from this as a jeep newb is that the AX5 trans is shite. So, there's that....
When it comes to YJ's I always look for a 4.0L '91-'95 with a good body and frame. Make sure it is complete and that the wiring harness isn't hacked up too bad. I don't care if it runs or not as I have extra 4.0L's sitting around from wrecked XJ's. I would actually prefer it either not run or run badly so I can buy it for much less. If I were looking to do a more involved build or maybe a complete drivetrain swap to either a diesel or a V8 then that would open up '87-'90 as well as 2.5L YJ's as an option. I do sometimes buy wrecked, rusted, incomplete, and even burned YJ's to use for parts donors so for the right price I wouldn't pass up any YJ. Flood victim YJ's can be the best deals if you have extra parts. 1991 YJ's are my favorite though...
Sadly, its magnificent run was ended 2006. Jeep Wranglers have not been the same ever since. Although I do love Lola, (Spirit of the Low Lands) my 2010 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited, my favourite is my TJ (Stargazer). There is something about the characteristic low end rumble of the vintage I6 engine that the JKU does not have. The low end torque of the YJs and TJs are far superior to any JK and JL. On top of this, any arthritic chimpanzee with broken thumbs can successfully work on an AMC 242ci I6 engine. The I6 engine is superior to the 3.8 pacífica engine and the 3.6 liter Pentestar engine in every way except the 3.6 liter Pentestar has better fuel economy. But everything else is vastly superior.
Very cool video. Just thought I'd mention something. When you said there was a date on the tires and they were made in 04, and they had X amount of tread... that could also possibly indicate amount of used the vehicle was getting up until date of your inspection.
look for a 1995 pre OBD2 4.0 litre 5spd. They will be worth a ton of money in the future. I have one i bought for 2000$ Did a frame off resto and invested almost 3500$. Ive been offered 10,000$ plus at car meets and events. Thats just the beginning.
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Anyone else remember when the YJ was the most hated Wrangler, due to its square headlights? Now it's a sought after commodity. It's funny how things go.
I never hated mine - I was always happy to own one. I regret selling my ‘91 back in the day. The square headlights never bothered me - the terrible ride did, but it was noticeably better than my cj5!!
There was a song that I keep going back to.. from the 80s …. It’s hip to be square…..hip to be square!!!
i want everything to be square, not even one rounded corner if possible! so square lights is actually the best for my taste haha
I’ve genuinely always loved the square headlights
I like the square headlights tbh
Tip for #8,2 door chevy cavalier seats bolt right in to yj seat mounts and junkyards are full of them
Pontiac sunfires too
any specific year?
1995-2003. Pontiac sunfire is the same car
FUKE OOG thank you man
Good to know
Finally a review that tells people how to check the tire DOT codes (the last 4 numbers are the manufacture date and it’s only stamped on one side of the tire). You get a thumbs up for that alone.
Knowing how old your tires is something many folks over look when buying a used car.
Haha.. Thanks for the thumbs up!! Appreciate it. Tons of little things to look out for.
Feel the engine before start up make sure its cold. Warmed up engines hide initial smoke from cold start.
As an aspiring wrangler owner, I learn something from almost every TR video out there. Thanks!
Also a thing to look for on the YJ is to make sure the vacuum pump that engages the 4wd is functioning. When my grandfather was trying to figure out why his 4x4 wouldn't work we found that the vacuum pump was bad. Might be worth it to replace it with a manual cable posi lock. If your not sure where it's located, it's on the passenger side located next to the leaf spring. Just make sure the vacuum lines are attached and working
Great information, thank you for sharing for everyone to read!
I had this exact same issue, lines were leaking and having issues. Then they were ripped out by a dog trying to eat our cat. Anyways... we ended up putting in the direct drive cable in to remove the vacuum hoses and they work great. Since you can now directly engage the front wheels we now have 4 high, 4 low, 2 high and now 2 low. Whether or not it actually has any use is a different story but it feels great to know I'm not waiting on outdated tech to work or be replaced. www.quadratec.com/products/52435_0100.htm
Matticus K.
Better yet, throw in a TJ inner axle, an inner seal, replace vacuum motor
with a plate, balance front drive shaft, and your done.
Never worry about it again.
BTW, wouldn't run 2wd in low range, Dana 35 not up to it.
I had that issue on my 1987 Wrangler. Never realized 4wd wasn’t engaging until pulling my boat out of a ramp I noticed rear wheel spin and no front. Ended up being a disconnected vacuum hose.
Had my 91 for about 22 years. Bought it from a guy in my Jeep Club, the original owner, as it was better setup than my '89 (plus efi vs carter carb!). This was in California, 6 months later we moved back to the UK so i sold the 89 and shipped the 91 here. It's been wheeled in the US, Mexico, England and Wales. Not many can claim that. On it's third engine as the original block cracked during shipping, the XJ engine replacement wore out it's cylinders (went oval shaped) and it's currently using a TJ engine.
I own a 1995 yj that I bought brand new. Love it as much today as the day I bought it!
My 90 2.5l yj got 900k miles before sitting for 10 years, we're restoring it now
Bought my 90 YJ in 2011, did a 4.0l swap and stroked it to a 4.6L, 4 in lift on 31s ,5 speed , bought it as a project and pure summer ride,. Remember what Jeep stands for Just Empty Every Pocket. Love my ride ,cheers
Wish this video would have been available 5 years ago when I bout my 1st used jeep yj. I learned a lot of lessons the hard way.
Which generation do you think is the most reliable in the trails, or the easiest to work on/mod?
My favorite Wrangler is the YJ. Been looking for one for a back trail camp vehicle. Thanks for the tips. Great video.
I didn't know about the date on the tire very informative THANKS
I recently pick me up a 1987 YJ Laredo one owner rig garage kept with only 93,000 miles on it 4.2 auto pretty much original condition I love it so much different than driving my JK
From what I have seen if a YJ frame is going to rot it usually is going to be on the right rear section by the shock, and also the right rear back of the frame. They definitely rot in other places as well, but those are the two most common spots I have seen.
Great video my friend, thank you for all the information
Yeah, man. That rubbing the hand over the tire tip was awesome. Definitely going to use this video as a guide when I begin looking and test driving. 👍
I regret selling my Jeep YJ.... It looks almost exactly like the Jeep you have with the winch. I sold it before leaving Colorado Springs a few years ago. I still have the sale slip so I can try and find it when Im ready to buy another.
I have a YJ with a failing transmission. I will not part with it. Only, 1,3,and 5 gear positions work. But it does not matter. I will never part with her. I am ordering two Terminator AX-15 transmissions soon, one for my YJ, one for my TJ. My YJ has the infamous BA10/5. The TJ has the New Venture NV3550 transmission. The NV3550 transmission is great. But New Venture has been defunct for awhile. Parts for the NV3550 are now sourced from mystery sources. I rather replace the venerable New Venture NV3550 with the Terminator AX-15 with Toyota gears. Then the old NV3550 with 409,000 miles will be dismantled and the good parts will be distributed to those with NV3550 that have trouble. The old transmission still works. It just needs synchronisers.
Here are my best friends.
1987 Jeep Wrangler YJ Sport (Murphy)
1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ Sport (Stargazer)
2012 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited JKU (Spirt of The Low Lands) or (Lola)
Stargazer and Lola were both purchased new. My favourite is probably Stargazer.
Indrid Cold that’s awesome
Don't buy any old jeep if you don't or can't get your hands dirty. Even for an enthusiast sometimes they can be a nightmare maintaining them. Great vehicles but it always comes down to how well they were taken care of before you got it.
I got a 1995 rebuild ever thing.What a job it was.Now wanting to sell it start all over again.
I'm looking forward to being at a point in my life that I can have a project car (space, time, money..) and I've told my fiance I'll be getting a jeep. She doesn't like vehicles with a higher center of gravity but I think she'll *fall for it*. :D
She doesn't have a choice what I take camping anyway.
I have to say that motor has to be the most reliable motor I've ever owned I got close to 200,000 on it now it's the only vehicle that Evan gets me to the auto parts store to fix everything else I own
Right on...
tomas
I bought my YJ about 7 years ago… it didn’t run ….breaks were shot …. All the seals where leaking… automatic transmission slipped ….. AC didn’t work….Needed shocks… 2 rims were bent …7 years later… put new timing chain in … new seals all underneath… fixed transmission….new breaks….new rims and tires… new shocks and leaf springs… oh and the AC is i’m happy to say blowing cold…..I paid 500 for the jeep…now I wouldn’t sell it for a million bucks I love it so much… it will be for my oldest son when he gets to be a senior in high school… he just doesn’t know it yet…. I will start this process all over again very soon so I will have a vehicle ready when my youngest son is a senior….
This is excellent, thank you. I'm looking at two YJ's today, a 1990 (179k) and a 1994 (156k). They both look nice in the ad. the 1994 needs a pan gasket (ads says oil pan leak, and leaking rear diff).
I appreciate ads that are honest about leak..... alway skeptical when they don't disclose as to what else might be wrong.
I have a 1994 with over 179,000 miles. Great vehicle but have had slight oil leak for years. Tried everything but couldn't stop it. Loses very little oil and stops shortly after I park it. Have learned to live with it and use thin sheet of plywood to keep it off the garage floor. Still really like it.
if its a 4 cylinder its gonna be hard to fix that leak
Teamwork, nothing better than that! TrailRecon & JeepSolid make a great combination. I learned a few things in the video as well. Rock On!
Excellent, wish I've gotten these tips 20 years ago when I bought my first YJ. Never knew about the manufacturing stamp date on the tires, learn something new!
Jeep Solid always had great tips!
Tip from a yj owner. Check for rust and own a lot of tools. These are 30 year old off road vehicles. It’s going to need more work than a newer vehicle. I bought a 4cyl with ax5. I replaced the ax5 recently with a reman. Mine gets 19mpg pretty easily. I wanted simple as possible which is why I went 4cyl. I’m into crawling around slowly. I replaced all the suspension with 2.5 inch lift springs and rough country heavy duty shocks. Removed the sway bar and track bars front and rear for better flex. New top. New headlights led. New running light sockets. New rear bumper. The guy took out the back seat so I bought a new smittybilt seat and new seatbelts. New dash lights. Radiator had a leak so new installed. New water pump. New hoses. New belt. New thermostat and housing. Valve cover gasket. Good tune up. Differential guards. All new fluids. Cleaned the throttle body. New 02 sensor. New exhaust from cat back. 5 new tires. New clutch and all associated parts. Universal joints. All that just to make it drivable and reliable.
There’s still more to go.
Thanks Brad! I've really enjoyed working with you over the years!!
Hey JS I just discovered you here. Ill be subscribing to both of you. could you please do a video on yj torque arms (or transmission stabilizers) Please???
I'm getting ready to look for a good used 1998-2006 2 door so these tips will be useful.
Watching this the day before I meet a guy that is selling a 1989 jeep wrangler Islander that has only 100,000 miles on it. These tips are going to come in handy when I give the jeep a good look.
Pop the rad cap when it's running and look for exhaust gases.
Look out for those rusty and crusty frames! Great info for anyone that isn't familiar with buying well used vehicles. Great job guys. 👍
Looking at a 1992 yj with all new body panels floor pans new tires and a 3in lift. This video helped a lot
Here's a tip. It's a 30 year old vehicle. It's gonna need some work. I don't care how good it looks. The last one built was in 1995. They're simple but have some tools and some knowledge because paying someone else to fix it is gonna be very expensive. I have the 2.5/ax5 combo. The transmission was shot when bought it. Had water in the oil and no synchros. I replaced with a reman. Biggest issue I've had is oil leaks. I've replaced about every gasket I can get to and it's like playing wack a mole. You stop one leak and another pops up. I'll probably replace the engine within the next year because I'm just tired of chasing leaks. Previous owner didn't do maintenance at all. Leaf springs were arched backwards so new springs shocks and bushing. Steering is worn so all new parts are going there. Brakes are very old. Exhaust manifold leaked so it got a new gasket. IAC was bad. Throttle body gasket didn't exist so it had a vacuum leak. Clutch slave leaked into the bell housing and wiped out the clutch. Universal joints were all old and crusty. Transfer case seal at rear was badly leaking. The vacuum line for the central axle disconnect had a section that was melted so it didn't have 4x4. 02 sensor went bad. Muffler was horribly smashed. The top was rotted off and what was left fell off somewhere on the way home. Water pump was bad and leaking. Radiator had a couple small holes in it. Fan belt was cracked and squealing. Oil pan leaked. I drove it home through the mountains from eastern Oregon to Eugene with all those problems and it cruised right along.😂
Not going to read all the comments, and apologies if I am repeating something. Good overall video, especially for someone that doesn't know Jeeps or even YJs in particular - they are different. Two pieces of advice about content. The first is that the AX - 5 isn't nearly the headache that an 87 - 88 BA 10/5 will be. Knowing how to identify it (the case) will save thousands. The second is the tire wear piece. Many incorrectly diagnose feathering as cupping, and these are very different. The explanation here is a bit vague.
Not a knock, it's a great video. Just some details that could have been added for those that don't know.
look for a soft top that was a summer fun vehicle... i got a 90 out of a barn for $4k, 98k miles, needed nothing but routine fluid changes, etc., had a new top, no rust, so nimble, been plowing with it for 4 years and the 2.5 is great in routine 1-6" snows, even on 1/4 mile uphills, although I break out the powerstroke 250 for heavy 6" or 8"+ fluffy wash it every day during salt use , coat any cracks or rust immediately
I love my Jeep. It was not taken care of. I don't have the upkeep money.
I lack experience and any mechanic time, it eats into the road time for work.
I have learned much.
Good video 👍
I buy and sell Jeeps and you pointed out some stuff I overlook when I’m purchasing one. I’ll make sure to look twice next time
Your friend Dale seems like a smart man... and a good friend! Great tips!
I absolutely hated the YJ when it came out. "Yuppie Jeep". Then just out of college starting career my Tacoma burned up and needed a Jeep. I found one that was about 10 yrs old at time a 1992 in 2002. it very well cared for, had a slight lift so it sat about the same height at the CJ5/7 on 31" tires. It was adult owned had a Ramsey Winch ARB bumper everything was done right. So couple things made me love it compared to the CJ5's of the past. First, its road manners was light years ahead of the CJ series. I currently own a 21' Rubicon Gladiator and yes it drives better than my old YJ but not as huge of a difference compared to CJ to YJ. Next, the heater and defroster actually worked. Every old CJ 5 or 7 I was in your feet got warm and that was it, and the defroster was whatever rag or handkerchief you could grab to wipe the window.
Five speed on freeway was much nicer than the old gen 3 speeds or 4 with granny gear. The 4.0L inline six was a great motor didn't feel all that less powerful than the early 70's 308 v8 with a two barrel. Sold it to a friend with 295K who drove it to 320K and it was still running like a Swiss watch when he sold it.
Lastly, I had only one CJ 5 that had a working speedometer. I know family that had replaced theirs with a VDO all in one Jeep gauges and those worked but AMC factory - Nope.
They may not have been the "best looking Jeep". But they were and are a great Jeep.
My son got a '93 YJ, 4.0 for a swap .It drives but came with a bent TC rear shaft; and it's also lifted and has 35" tires. It seems the guy used it for off road most of the time. Since its frame is in great condition and the engine runs well we decided to restore it . I've just bought a SYE , a rear shaft and a master TC rebuilt kit from the" Extreme Terrain".... Also we plan to completely replace the suspension and put a 2.5-3 inch lift and downsize the tires to 32".. We plan to use it for normal driving and occasionally driving on forest roads...
The first car I ever bought new was a red 91 4 cyl YJ. Bone stock base, absolutely no options, not even a radio. I beat the crap out of that YJ off-roading, driving friends around, travelling cross country multiple times and put over 100,000 miles on it without a single issue (didn't even replace clutch until 60,000 miles). I remember in the winter having to put a piece of cardboard in front of the radiator to get more heat (gets cold up here) but man I've regretted selling it ever since.
Ive been a mustang guy for a long time...usually I take my 96 Cherokee sport to get all the parts I need for my builds...I never really got into the jeeps though...only repairing the one I have for a daily driver. Channels like this have shown me a path to a new hobby and I thank you.
I'm looking to buy a soft top jeep wrangler for myself for my birthday, but it does snow in the winter in PA. You made my decision better prepared. Thank you
That was a well done video with useful info. Thanks!
Nice narration, each and every point is meaningful. Please highlight about the engine and performance of an older Jeep.
Even loving my JKU, there is no question: YJ and TJ/LJs are the best Jeeps.
Smell trans fluid, make sure pink and not burnt. Rub inside edge of muffler, make sure not oily.
Thanks for this video! My daughter is gonna be driving in a few years and is really set on a jeep wrangler. So i am going to be looking for one for her, something that i can maybe do a little tlc on before she hits the road in it. Thanks for all the tips!
Thank you. Great resource. Good info before I purchase my Jeep.
Great video. I'm in the market for a YJ also I will definitely keep these things in mind.
Good luck with your YJ hunt! Great to hear this was helpful.
Great! They are a lot of fun and fairly easy to work on.
Lookin to buy my first jeep! Thanks for the tips wish me luck!
So how did it go ,is it working well for you ?
The pre-‘91 wranglers with the 2.5l throttle body injection are terribly under-powered, especially with a hard top. If you want a 2.5, make sure to get a ‘91 or later with the multi-port injection. They have noticeably more power, but personally I would avoid the 2.5 completely because the AX5 transmission is a indeed a weak point. I replaced mine in my ‘89 at 60k, and had 2 gears and synchros replaced under warranty on my ‘91 at 21k. I wasn’t hard on them by any means, whatsoever. By comparison, the ax15(s) in my TJs have never needed any service besides oil changes. The 4.0 in the YJ is definitely the way to go - I just couldn’t afford one at the time.
I bought a 1990 YJ and it had a whole bunch of sensors on it that could have left me stranded in the wilderness. My friend is a mechanic and he told me this. There's a town called Ellensburg Washington we're a Wrangler about the same year as mine had a sensor go bad. The jeep was there for about six months before they found a sensor for it. We pulled my motor out and put a Ford mustang motor in it and put Ford f250 3 quarter ton differentials under it. But now the steering arms are useless because the holes where the tie rod ends go in or broken. So I'm still looking for steering arm and that will fit and I cannot find them. I would recommend getting something newer than a 1990 for sure.
Buy from old person!
Ask a young myself. Definitely buy from an old person. Fair price, good condition, and they know what they're talking about.
Absolutely!! Unless they are really cool, their Jeeps usually have not been off-road much, if at all, or beat on. Definitely a good tip right here for somebody considering a Jeep purchase
Yup old or 45
Exactly what I did!
I just found me one with only 78,000 miles here in Maryland State ,the owner is asking $4,800 , I offered him $4,500 ,going to look at it tomorrow.
This was an incredibly informative video. Thank you very much
It's nice to see some YJ love. leaf springs FTW!!
Hahah..... Yeah, My YJ and I have been through thick and thin... Always been dependable for me! Thanks!
I had to tune in. I'm about to put my '92 YJ on Craigslist in the Chico/Paradise area here in NoCal and put the money into a '98 XJ I just picked up. I was curious to see if Dale had anything to say that I have not addressed in getting my YJ ready to sell. I think I'm in good stead. Really enjoying your channel!
Sounds like you've taken good care of it.
Dude I had knocking and pinging on a new 2008 3.6 JK. I got rid of it and now I am happy with my 3.6. 2017
Definitely do more of these videos; very helpful.
Will do, thank you!
Thanks! Glad it helped. I enjoyed making it.
Good gauge...funny, I was just watching Dale's latest vid at Jeep Solid.
I always look forward to Dales next video!
Haha! Cool. Thanks for watching.
Also check if it has fork throw out bearing or the one that goes on the gearbox shaft.
Common sense stuff, but still a good reminder of the things to check. Thanks.
THANK YOU SO MUCH. A TOTALLY AWSOME EDUCATION!!!! I LEARNED ALOT.
Great video content. Only owned a Jk but think yjs are pretty cool. I subscribed to both of you guys look forward to more great videos from you guys. TrailRecon videos are some of our favorites.
Thank you and welcome to the channel!
Great video! I would love a YJ one day. I have never owned one. I'm subscribed to both of you guys and you both have amazing content!
Thanks Bearded one. Appreciate it!
tip 1.....dont buy a yj.....buy a tj. The diff suspension makes a WORLD of diff offroad and on
Both will out perform any same type of truck off road, not just commuting to work. The TJ is just better than the YJ. My YJ was a beast off road, however my TJ will go a few places the YJ would loose traction. Leaf spring vs coil spring
Thanks Gents. What a great informational video!
Glad you found it helpful, Jeep Solid always has great info!
Thanks guys. Always fun workin' on the project jeep!
Great information. I will be looking for some of the thing that was said. THANKS
Excellent video. Great info and very helpful. Blessings.
Was hoping for Jeep specific tips, this seems like common things that I guess I take for granted that everyone should know. The one thing that I did learn from this as a jeep newb is that the AX5 trans is shite. So, there's that....
Heard the engine, now I want one more than I want a love life.
When it comes to YJ's I always look for a 4.0L '91-'95 with a good body and frame. Make sure it is complete and that the wiring harness isn't hacked up too bad. I don't care if it runs or not as I have extra 4.0L's sitting around from wrecked XJ's. I would actually prefer it either not run or run badly so I can buy it for much less. If I were looking to do a more involved build or maybe a complete drivetrain swap to either a diesel or a V8 then that would open up '87-'90 as well as 2.5L YJ's as an option.
I do sometimes buy wrecked, rusted, incomplete, and even burned YJ's to use for parts donors so for the right price I wouldn't pass up any YJ. Flood victim YJ's can be the best deals if you have extra parts.
1991 YJ's are my favorite though...
JeepYJ91 why are the 91’s your favorite ?
@@manasseh7
Last year for the slant back roll bar and first year for the 4.0L in the YJ. There are a few other small things.
Thanks for the information, will use it soon because I intend to buy a Jeep
Jeep Solid is very knowledgeable about YJ. Good luck on the purchase of your Jeep!
Glad it helped ya out! Good luck on the hunt!!
Thanks Brad!
The best year is the ‘95.
Try to get one totally stock, build it right the first time.
Really loved this video n helpful!!! Thinking about buying one n trading in my car for it. This helps to negotiate price!!
Dale is like the Jeep Whisperer
Excellent video. To the point. Thank you so much for posting this.
Good review, I just bought a YJ
great video! Death Wobble can be very hard to fix or even impossible to fix sometime!
Thanks alot for this video man! I should be buying a Tj sometime next year!
Great video, looking to get a project jeep sometime within the next year
Good video. Looking at a 93 Wrangler and this gives me good ideas! Thanks
I need a YJ to build a Jurassic Jeep.
that would be awesome! i've seen a few of those around and its such a cool idea!
i got that !
Brad!!! I spy a Mustang grill in your garage! Great video to the both of you guys!
LOL! Yep, I've owned a couple Mustangs and that's just a little memorabilia from my last one. Thanks!
TrailRecon Nice!!! I have a Mustang as well as a Jeep. Always a tough decision as to which one gets the next mod.
God I love the inline 6!!!
Sadly, its magnificent run was ended 2006. Jeep Wranglers have not been the same ever since. Although I do love Lola, (Spirit of the Low Lands) my 2010 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited, my favourite is my TJ (Stargazer). There is something about the characteristic low end rumble of the vintage I6 engine that the JKU does not have. The low end torque of the YJs and TJs are far superior to any JK and JL. On top of this, any arthritic chimpanzee with broken thumbs can successfully work on an AMC 242ci I6 engine. The I6 engine is superior to the 3.8 pacífica engine and the 3.6 liter Pentestar engine in every way except the 3.6 liter Pentestar has better fuel economy. But everything else is vastly superior.
That was a good video! I subscribed.
Really great vid with great tips
damn this dude knows his shit..
This is my favorite Jeep. The YJ.
This guy is the best
Very cool video. Just thought I'd mention something. When you said there was a date on the tires and they were made in 04, and they had X amount of tread... that could also possibly indicate amount of used the vehicle was getting up until date of your inspection.
look for a 1995 pre OBD2 4.0 litre 5spd. They will be worth a ton of money in the future. I have one i bought for 2000$ Did a frame off resto and invested almost 3500$.
Ive been offered 10,000$ plus at car meets and events. Thats just the beginning.
Thank you this video helped me out alot
Great to hear!
Glad it helped ya. Appreciate the feedback.
very informative video thank you for sharing your expertise
Great video. Really well done, thank you!
Wow, learned how to tell when the tire was made. Thanks.
Great video thx!
Looking at getting my first one so this was super helpful
I'm see your videos from cd juarez chih border with el paso tx I have 95 yj jeep 6 cyl standar thks
Awesome video
Thanks! Always fun hanging out in the shop.
Great info!
wow some really great tips you guys!
I do like these jeeps in particular but I also like miatas but I'm leaning towards the jeep because of where I live
Knocking, pinging that is funny. When I had my new 2008 JK it would do that and it was new at the time
Low octane?
@@BroncoSolid no
@@BroncoSolid ethanol gasoline 😠
SUGGESTION: MORE JEEP YJ MERCHANDISE.