23393 messages,
Last post on Feb 12, 2013 at 3:29 PM
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Jeep Wrangler Forum.
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Jeep Wrangler, SUV
#115 of 23393 2002 and 2003 Wrangler
by truebeliever
Sep 27, 2000 (6:34 pm)
The latest I read on the web says that the Wrangler is going to a modular top in 2002. A great idea considering all I've heard about removing the hard top. I'm assuming this is replacing the hard top and the soft top will still be available. Does anyone know if the modular top is going to be composite or metal/bolt on or integrated into the body? Will it be available aftermarket for earlier years?
In 2003 they are switching to the new Cherokee platform, adding independent suspension, and going to a 3.? L engine. What car is that engine used in now? Sure it will be quieter and more economical, but worry if it will have enough torque.
With the switch to IS, do you think the 2002 will be considered the last "real Jeep" or will Jeepsters embrace the '03?
Am trying to decide if I should buy a 2001 a 2002 or a 2003.
Thanks.
#116 of 23393 truebeliever...
by peterskm
Sep 27, 2000 (9:55 pm)
Look at the Jeep Icon concept vehicle. That is the type of modular top they are speaking of. The roof and roll bar are integrated. When you remove the pieces of the roof, only the rollbar remains (which is part of the roof). I would guess it would be a composite made like the new plastic top they are supposed to be testing this year. As for the IFS, if you wanna go rock crawling, get your Jeep before 2002.
#117 of 23393 Question for Jeepsters
by drumdog
Sep 28, 2000 (3:50 am)
Hey,
I have a question, I have two options for getting a Wrangler. Option 1: 2000 TJ SE with 23 miles for $ 15,000 or a 97 TJ Sport with around 40,000 or so miles for $ 15,000. Both stick and soft top. Which one would be the better buy? I am concerned about the power of the 4cyl. Can anyone offer advice on what I should go for? Also, I plan to put 30-31 in tires on the TJ so with that in mind, will the 4 cyl be too bogged down? What is my better buy?
Sep 28, 2000 (4:50 am)
Yeah, I've seen the Icon and it definitely looks plastic. Have you seen the Mountain Biker concept? It seems to have a metal roof. It looks good to me.
I hate the idea of buying a car the last year before a model change. It dates your car right away. If the 2003 is not a success though, then the 2002 may become a sought after year.
Sep 28, 2000 (2:34 pm)
Removing the hardtop is not that difficult if you use a harness in your garage.
The engine in the '03 Jeep is completely new engine as I understand it. So it is not used in any car now. The I6 is a proven engine and I would buy a 2001 and would not wait any longer.
Dave
Sep 28, 2000 (2:40 pm)
The 4 cyc should be fine as far power goes for off-roading. I don't think you will have a problem with 30 or 31's. I would try to go new if you can.
I have a 6 cyc and will never own a 4 cyc jeep again. I think the 4 cyc sucks on the highway. I guess if you drive around 60 and maybe 70 you will be OK.
Dave
Sep 28, 2000 (2:48 pm)
1. You get pushed around some on days with heavy winds, but it is not that bad.
2. I would think a Jeep is a safe vehicle in a snowstorm. You will have 4 wd which will help. It does not snow here so it is hard for me to say. I think the only thing that would would make a jeep unsafe is the driver.
3. I don't have a 2001, but have heard it does make a big difference.
Dave
#122 of 23393 Ordering a 2001
by jeepnj
Sep 28, 2000 (6:15 pm)
I am getting ready to order a 2001 (probably Sahara), as soon as I can decide on a couple of things. Any opinions on the 30" Canyon wheels vs the standard Michelin LT-X tires on the Sahara? And what about that Dana44? What does having it (or not having it) mean in the driving world? I'll be mostly on pavement but I would like to do some offroading (not much terrain in NJ, but who knows where I'll end up?)
Any opnions on cruise control?
Thanks for your thoughts!
Sep 28, 2000 (9:05 pm)
I would get the Dana44. It should come with track-lok also. I think you will get both of these if you order the 30 inch tire group.
The Dana 44 is a bigger rear axle, which is good for off-roading and larger tires, and probably good for re-sale value. The track-lok will help you off-roading and in snowy/icy weather.
Go for the 30 inch tire group.
I won't ever own a car without cruise control again. If you ever do or plan on doing any long distance driving on the highway I would get it.
Dave
Sep 29, 2000 (5:28 am)
If Jeep goes the way it looks like they are, then they will be turning the Wrangler into a CRV ,Tracker or any of those other wanna-be's . We bought and love Jeeps to be different . Hey DC & Jeep dont do it . Remember the heritage !!! go here and tell DC, what you think http://www.dcanswers.com/