Jeep Wrangler

Replies to this message:
• mac24 (Jun 07, 2009 8:09 am)

Replying to: donwhiteauto (Jun 06, 2009 10:15 am)

My next car will be a Jeep Wrangler.
 
It's not a car.
 
What are some of the first steps to take to make the wrangler off-road ready?
 
It's already offroad ready, and with all due respect, a lot more so than you probably are or you wouldn't be asking.
 
Much depends on what you want to do and over what type of terrain. Even on fairly mild trails the learning curve can be pretty steep. Do remember that bigger tires and a lifted suspension may improve the Jeep's capabilities offroad (though with trade-offs on the highway), but they won't improve your driving skills at all. In fact they usually just enable you to get stuck or to fall over in a more dramatic way!
 
Your first purchases should be a fire extinguisher, tow strap, and First Aid kit, and don't go offroad with them on your own (it's tough using that tow strap without another vehicle to attach it to ).
 
Next, think about improved underbody protection; skid plates, rocker protection, stronger bumpers, etc.
Finally, if you want a nice toy to bolt on, you might think about a winch. However, initially you'll probably only use it to pull your buddy out. Until you really know what you're doing, you rarely want to pull yourself deeper into whatever got you stuck.
Remember that he best winch for your recovery is almost always attached to the vehicle behind you.

My 98 TJ (Eugene) turned over the 300k mark today. I have replace or repaired (other than regular maintenance brakes, plugs, etc.) Are the Rotors, Radiator, A/C leak/Compressor, Alternator 250K (Mac you called this one) and the Rear Transmission seal.
Life is good,
 Walt

Replies to this message:
• mac24 (Jun 25, 2009 3:36 am)

Replying to: jptj (Jun 25, 2009 3:10 am)

For Wranglers that are well maintained and driven with understanding that's not unusual.
I normally say 150 - 250K miles before even needing to think about an engine overhaul; 300K is excellent.
 
Congratulations, what a value!

Replies to this message:
• mac24 (Jun 30, 2009 3:14 am)
  • erickpl (Jun 30, 2009 9:21 am)
    • mac24 (Jul 01, 2009 5:59 am) and 7 more...

Replying to: erickpl (Jun 29, 2009 5:01 am)

When you can't adjust it any more it's time for a rebuild or replacement.
You can rebuild it yourself, but parts can be a problem.
 
NAPA, Advance, Autozone will be the best price option for an exchange unit and are all around the same price at a little under $200, with the Snow Plough option being another $50 or so.
Core charges vary but are immaterial unless you intend to keep you original box.
 
I suppose you could look for something secondhand, but steering and brakes are something I prefer to go new on.

Replies to this message:
• erickpl (Jun 30, 2009 9:21 am)
  • mac24 (Jul 01, 2009 5:59 am)
    • erickpl (Jul 01, 2009 10:36 am) and 6 more...

Replying to: mac24 (Jun 30, 2009 3:14 am)

Replies to this message:
• mac24 (Jul 01, 2009 5:59 am)
  • erickpl (Jul 01, 2009 10:36 am)
    • mac24 (Jul 02, 2009 4:39 am) and 5 more...

Replying to: erickpl (Jun 30, 2009 9:21 am)

A PSC SG621M should last you virtually for ever with your setup and is obviously the ultimate of the options you list. I don't have any direct experience of it except in the H1, where it's adequate for the application though not over specified.
If you go that route you might want to get it ported with blanking plugs in case you ever want to go with cylinder assist in the future.
 
I've heard about too many problems with AGR to want to recommend them, though to be fair it's mainly been with their modified pumps.
 
Reman vs new? In theory new should be better but I've had and seen mixed experiences of good and bad with both. If you think that new components will always be better, ask yourself why new cars come with a warranty.
 
Best value would probably be the Durango Snow unit if you can return your old box as the core.
 
I understand what you say about your son driving, but the steering and braking should really be 100% regardless of who's in the left seat.

Replies to this message:
• erickpl (Jul 01, 2009 10:36 am)
  • mac24 (Jul 02, 2009 4:39 am)
    • erickpl (Jul 02, 2009 7:19 am) and 4 more...

Replying to: mac24 (Jul 01, 2009 5:59 am)

Mac I hear on the 100% thing. I'm just used to how it drives. He's not. If it were me as the only driver, I wouldn't be AS concerned. Your comments are the first I've heard about AGR being a possible problem.
 
PSC makes the SG621MR with the ports for hydro assist, but I don't plan on going that route with this TJ. 33's is it with moderate wheeling.
 
The Durango with snow option is 165 from AdvAuto (with core). The PSC is 335 shipped to my door from a 4x4 shop. Do you think it'll hold up sufficiently with 33x12.5's for onroad and offroad use and give me back responsive steering and minimized that dead spot in the middle? THAT is ultimately what I'm trying to take care of. When I have to make a huge steering adjustment just to keep the TJ straight or to follow a slight bend in the road, something ain't right.
 
I trust your word on these kinds of things and if you think a reman unit will work for my needs, then I'll trust it. If I get one and it sucks, I'll return with the lifetime warranty and go for a PSC.
 
The brakes I'm not worried about. I can lock them up if I need to, but the 2.5L is slow enough that it isn't a concern!
 
I have checked the linkages in the components underneath and they are all rock solid (JKS trackbar and ZJ tierod (new ends) and NO undue motion in ANY joint).
 
-Paul

Replies to this message:
• mac24 (Jul 02, 2009 4:39 am)
  • erickpl (Jul 02, 2009 7:19 am)
    • mac24 (Jul 03, 2009 6:48 am) and 3 more...