My sentiment exactly.. I bought a 02 TJ a year ago, a 4.0 5 speed. I basically did not want all the electrical accessories as they tend to have issues. I lean more to the look of the TJ and just love its simplicity. And I agree, so easy to work on. My kids gave me a hard time in the beginning because it didn't have power windows. I solved that by removing the doors...lol
My 2 sons love the old man's TJ. Doors and top are in the garage from April - Nov. I think of it as my over sized dune buggy. An absolute blast on and especially off road!
I've seen some well built newer jeeps and thought to myself I wouldn't mind adding one to my fleet, but as a secondary, never as a replacement. I love my TJ for the same reasons you love yours. 🙌
I saw a 2 dr army green JL Willys and thought it was cool. Then looked inside and saw all that fluff, soft bells and whistles and thought, I'm grateful to have my '05 TJ Rocky Mtn.
The TJ was peak Jeep. Newer ones have better factory suspension, more powerful engines and better automatic transmissions, but the TJ is untouched as a platform to build from.
Agreed! I really prefer the TJs look, style, simplicity over the new ones. New ones are made very cheap too, push on the panel, basically made from a Pepsi can. The doors actually are warped from factory install. There's a video of a body shop showing it on RU-vid.
This exactly how I feel about my 2002 jeep wrangler Sahara bro. The nostalgia and sentimental value it has to me that’s worth way more than a 60k,70k,80k jeep I wouldn’t even trade it for a 392 that’s how much it means to me
I feel the same way about my TJ. It will never be worth to someone else, what it's worth to me. Still going strong with almost 240, 000 on the old 4.0!.. The longer you own and the more you do to fix it up, definitely creates a strong attachment, most people don't seam to understand.
I added heated seats, re-upholstered it with marine vinyl for durability from the elements, re-carpeted with water-resistant carpet that easily pulls out for cleaning and installed ARB steel Bull Bumpers. I adore my 2006 JEEP Wrangler LJ.
I thought about getting a JK when I got a TJ, but then thought Just Kidding. But seriously, they came out when I started high school and has always been my dream vehicle. TJs and CJs are the best Jeeps.
The new jeep is absolutely designed so that you have to take it to the shop when you want to do anything to it. It's only ever about making money, now. Thought for the individual customer is gone altogether.
My 2003 TJ Rubicon was one of the original 8,000 Rubicons built, ordered it in November 2002 and still own it to this day 20 years later. Just got her out of paint and she now sports 3/4 link w/King coil overs, 6.2 LS3 Corvette engine w/6l80, Atlas II t-case, Recaro seats, York OBA, Premier Power Welder, 37” tires on Hutchinson beadlocks and is my baby until I die. I also have a 2005 Rubicon Sahara #364 built well and continuing to build for my son so we can go out and wheel the country one day. I’ve had a TJ since July 1997 when I got a Sport model and owned it for 4 years. I have added a 22 JLUR to the fleet and absolutely love it but my 03 TJR is my favorite and always will be.
I can't imagine why anyone would want to spend so much money on a plastic Jeep, TJ was the last real Jeep made and will still be running long after the JK's and JLs are in the junkyard.
Same! I’m 32 I fondly remember being a bit afraid when I was taken off-roading in the back of a topless red TJ way back around 2001 - I wanted a jeep since then. Now I finally bought one! 2003 wrangler X There’s no comparison.. these were the last authentic Jeep wranglers.
I’ve got a ‘21 392 and an ‘01 TJ. They’re very different, very capable, and I love them both. The TJ is certainly special though and your video was spot on. I was going to trade my TJ in when I bought my JL, but I couldn't bring myself to do it. They are awesome Jeeps.
Only thing is.... old vehicles have issues with things like wiring harnesses and hard brake lines and such my 2010 is in the shop with electrical issues from a wiring harness degrading (the loom) and exhaust heat to melt the coating off wires. TJs are great but they arent immune to old vehicle issues
To be fair to Jeep/Stellantis, 1) We're (the diehards) the niche market. Most people are buying Jeeps because it's the "cool" thing to do. Those folks keep the brand alive for us, and those are things they want. Just like the 4 door Unlimited models, they outsell the 2doors by a wide margin for a reason. 2)Due to modern government standards, a lot of systems are required that make it easier to integrate certain comfort features. Example, in 2011 ABS was a REQUIRED item. If you're going to be forced to have ABS, traction and stability control becomes a software issue. Another is backup cameras, which have been required since 2016. This requires them to put a screen in. If you're being forced to put a screen in, you might as well throw in infotainment to appeal to a wider audience.
Greta video and couldn't agree more! I was in the market for a Jeep 3 years ago and after many test drives of new JL's I ended up getting an '06 LJ Rubicon. I think the TJ/LJ platform fixes all the issues I had with the cj 5 and Scrambler I once owned. Coil suspension, disk brakes, fuel injection, good heat/ac and a soft top that is WAY quieter. I don't have a decibel meter but after driving several JL's with hardtops I'd say my softtop is comparable. New jeeps hold their value better than anything but my LJ has gone up in value quite a bit.
I chuckled out loud in the first 2 mins... who needs all the new electronics and seat warmers. This is a Jeep for crying out loud. YJ's and manual tranny's for the win.
bit of a chuckle here. I bought my jeep on the check list, but bought a JK. The only option was the AC. BUT, I am not mechanically inclined, infact I tend to break more trying to fix it than was originally broken, so I do take to the shop. Not a big fan of all the computer back up but I'll take it. Cross that with my wife wanting something new, thinking it would be more reliable mmff, what ever pick your battles be sure it's worth winning. But the main reason for the JK was the freedom top. I don't need to drop the whole roof to run semi topless. To some this may not seem like much but as a falconer with a warm weather bird I can fly her over the hood and retain more heat between flights. But yes hand crank windows no display screen, basic radio /cd player. Not a hard core off roader, and I'm a flat fender jeep so that is on the list for mods.
Exactly why I didn't buy new. I have a '14 JK Sport 6-speed - zero bells and whistles, and I like it that way. I couldn't find a TJ for the life of me and ran across this, and since I like the body style I grabbed it. I do envy you with the 4.0L though - best engine I have ever owned.
Had wanted one since high school and was lucky enough a few years ago to buy a 97 4.0 standard. It was already built to be a rock crawler with custom bumpers, fenders and a fully updated suspension with e-lock 44's for just over 8k. Now when I look online I can't even find anything comparable for under 20k. Man did prices fly up quick. Feel bad for people that try to buy the older stuff going forward since the jump in point is going to be so much higher.
Bought a 1982 CJ7 Laredo new,still have it. Still drive it. A few modifications, 79 wagoneer axles, spring over suspension, wagoneer drive train engine transmission, full roll cage, 95 yj tub. Fun to drive on the street and offroad. Love to have a LJ.
Jeep’s CEO has acknowledged they want to turn Jeep Wranglers into luxury off road vehicles on par with Range Rovers & Land Rovers. It comes down to simple economics & net profit. Selling less units for a significantly higher price will produce bigger profit for the company. The days of the simple, bare bones, Wrangler is gone forever. TJ’s & JK’s will likely become more valuable. TJ’s are basic Jeeps JK’s are just a step above with some technology but not overloaded with it. Technology is great but it’s expensive and tends to require more maintenance
JEEP should do what they offered up until the 90s, a base stock platform. Super cheap . The dealer told me one time I could have ordered it and put my own tires and rims on in the lot. The new Jeeps are going after Land Rover and hipster the Luxury Market.
My brother has a 2001 TJ Wrangler. Its narrower than my 2019 JL and between riding in the two in Montana I will say the newer Jeeps are " smoother riding" . But my brother admits the " added " extras on the JL are nice, but the maintenance is defiantly more cost wise.
I have had all models of the Wrangler, ‘95 YJ, ‘97 TJ(x2), ‘13 JK, ‘21 JL. My first TJ is still one of my favorites but JL was my favorite til someone turned in front of me and totaled it. While in the hospital I found another 97 TJ and bought it the day after I got out. I also bought a ‘22 Gladiator to tow the TJ and base camp out of. My first TJ and my JL are even more special to me because I ordered each of them. The window sticker even says it was made for me. I agree with you about the TJ but some of the amenities in the new Jeeps are a nice touch too.
Hey Jon, sorry to hear about your accident! I definitely don’t doubt that the new Jeep amenities are awesome! The point of the video was more to steer people towards the direction of their specific wants, not to bash on the newer Jeep’s 😁 thanks for watching!
The jeep I’ve got now which is my first one is a jk, and I definitely wish I had gotten a tj. I didn’t really know what I wanted when I got it but over time I have wanted an older jeep more and more. They look amazing, seem like they aren’t as fragile as the newer jeeps and I love how classic they are
I have a 1999 TJ and i have a 2018 jlu rubicon. Love my TJ but l drive my JL more then then TJ. Love all the extras in the JL been having a blast with it for years now!
I have had two JKU’s. First was a 09 and now a 18’. My next wrangler will be a TJ. It’s what got me into them in the first place. To my buddy John’s 2003 TJ Apex Edition, Manual, doors off driving on the beaches in Charleston, SC all those years ago….goddamn you for this addiction!
I got to laugh at this. I bought a brand new 1986 AMC Jeep CJ7 when I was 20 years old. Besides the tilt steering wheel it was as Spartan as a Jeep you could get. No air conditioning and analog gauges. Even the air vent was a pull out rod. My 2018 Wrangler JL unlimited has everything. Heated seats, electric everything, Apple play. The CJ7 suspension was a lot tougher but driving it was rather unforgiving on your back. The JL has a much smoother suspension and enjoyable ride. The soft tops are like night and day. No button snaps on the body for the JL like the CJ. Just fold it back. As far as engines my 4.2 liter inline 6 was bulletproof. The 3.6 is an excellent motor but time and technology has made my old CJ7 motor like an antique. How much has changed in almost 40 years.
You want to talk about rugged, that’s the definition of your CJ7 lol. The new Jeep’s certainly have some cool features and if you are someone who wants some good creature comforts then they are definitely a great option! Thanks for watching!
OK, I had to laugh when you said your TJ was "the basic, of the basic when it comes to features." Why I had to laugh you ask? Because I have looked at the TJ and thought, that it would be sweet to step up to some plush interior and extra room. After all, I have a 79 CJ-5 which is more plush than a lot of older ones, but is in the Dark Ages compared to the TJ, and absolutely Stone Age compared to the new ones. I'll keep it though, had it for 39 years so far, might as well keep it for another 20, LOL. I do want a TJ though, might step up a couple decades and pick one up in the future... can't see owning one of the news ones, I would hate to scratch a $60,000 vehicle and a Jeep is supposed to get dings and scratches because you are driving where nobody else can. Keep up the great content, Just found your channel this evening.
Hahaha! Yeah the CJ is a whole other animal of basic but are very awesome rigs! I would hang onto it too. I appreciate the kind words and thanks for watching! 🙂
I had a 2013 Sahara and due to the pandemic I decided to sell it, I regretted it every day, until a few months ago I bought a 1997 TJ, and I consider it to have an old school vibe that is impossible to improve, the classic will always be better in Jeeps .
I have a jacked up 97 Sahara, I’m in love with it. I also have a 95 XJ both 4.0 inline 6. I don’t think I ever want to part with my Sahara. I love that beast! Have fun in yours, I think you made a good move in the long run.
instead on new Jeep or 4 runner, I went and bought 87 samurai with built axles on 32" for 3k and 87 4runner with dana 44 front & 14bolt rear, dual Tcase for 7k. I feel the older rigs are much more fun and enjoyable as well as engaging with element. and they look and feel so much tougher.
Great vid!! I've never owned a Wrangler and just like you, the moment I saw one it's been my dream car, but $60k for a new one it's crazy!! I didn't want to go that old as I fear it may break down more than necessary or perhaps could be unreliable, then there's the MPG but I'm definitely going to reconsider a TJ. What year it's your jeep and what's the MPG like? Awesome vid!! Thx.
Thanks Carlos! Be patient when looking and always take a potential purchase to a shop to have it inspected but if you can find one in good condition they are great rigs! Thanks for watching!
@@Montanaoffroad1 dude, great advise and thank for reply! Mind sharing what year it's your jeep and what's the MPG like? and also, would you say it's fairly comfortable for road tripping? Thx.
Mine is a 99’. I will say if you are looking for a comfortable ride or relatively decent gas mileage a TJ may not be for you. I get around 13.5-14.5 depending on the condition and comfortable is not a word I would use to describe the TJ model in general but that really isn’t what they are designed for. If you do a lot of longer trips then I would probably suggest going a bit newer as the creature comfort aspect certainly evolves as you move up in model years. Hope this helps!
@@Montanaoffroad1 totally!! We do lots of short and long road trips with some light access dirt roads. Greatly appreciate replying and thank you for sharing.
We feel the Exact Same Way, 2007 & newer jeeps are “ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS that Move” I Don’t want Anything that Talks to me, I’ll take Manual seats, windows, mirrors, door locks and what ever else moves I can do it myself, no electrical motors on everything to break..!! We have had a YJ, 2006 L-TJ, now a 1997 TJ, all have had the 4.0 inline 6 on them, a BULLETPROOF engine with low RPM Torque, that is Why they are STILL Used on tractor trainer trucks to this day.!!! ✅👍😎
I had a 88 K5 Blazer lifted 6 in with 35s and I always tried to go four wheeling with these Jeep clubs, but they never really wanted me to go with them because they said that I was a full size and I wasn't a Jeep. Now these new JK's and JL's if you look at them and you get a tape measure and you measure the width they are exactly the same width as a K5 Blazer or 78 to 93 Bronco! So now they are full size!! So everything that they ridiculed the full sizes about has come full circle and now they are full size and some of them are even longer because of the four doors! Jeeps now are longer than the K5 and the Broncos. Lmbo!
I have to admit, I did add seat heaters to my TJ when I lived in Chicagoland (of course, I'm a native Texan, so don't like cold), I upgraded the stereo (not a touch screen). I've got a hard top, soft top, full doors and half doors. This summer, I added a mesh top to cut some of the brutal sunshine we've had so far this year. All the other mods have been for off-road and drivability.
The Wrangler was the start of the "refined jeep". Even the YJ was a huge leap from what a Jeep was meant to be. The TJ is the perfect blend of comfort and features, but you can still let the rain in with the top off and not feel too bad about it. I daily drive a KL, and i have a 2000 Wrangler for a hobby. When the day comes, i'll get rid of the KL, and buy a JL, but i'll never get rid of the tj.
love my half century old CJ5 ... but, if I had to go with a new-fangled Wrangler, it would be the TJ (suppose my dream wrangler would be a YJ that looks like a TJ) will keep the CJ going, though -- a harsh mistress of course ;)
My jeep is a 2018 JL. Your TJ is pretty slick. I have to unlock my doors with a key and manually. I do enjoy the AC here in Texas. I may look for a TJ later down the line. I like how it looks.
It’s probably brutal for someone who’s used to driving a JL but for me personally I don’t mind it. I’m planning of doing a little bit of sound dampening this year as well which will make it even better. Thanks for watching!
@@Montanaoffroad1 I've owned the TJ for 5 years before I bought the JL. It's an old car. Started production in 1995. Jeep has made alot of refinements in the JK and then the JL also. Love my TJ off road, around town and short trips. I did a 1000km drive in it once and never again
I sold my new 2012 after owning it for 6 years. And bought a 99 four-cylinder and I'm much happier with it. I do miss air-conditioning every once in a great while when I'm on a 4 hour road trip. I fell in love with the TJ's one of my friend bought one the summer of 96
I have a 2003 tj with 33 and alot of other upgrades. I did a total overhaul a 128k miles got 100k warranty 3 year warranty thru jasper engines. New clutch and fly wheel. Basically a new jeep tj rubicon. I am a loan officer at a credit union. Bought tj 03 in 3-22 high retail loan value was 9k. I just relooked at nada again 5/17/2023 14 months since purchase and now high retail loan value is 16600. They are going g up in value with nada faster then and vehicle in us. The 2003 thru 06 are the best years in value for tj due to rear end is a dana 44 stock, but even the 98 thru 2002 are great increase also. Don't ever sell your tj just do a overhaul like mine.will go up and up and up in value. Prediction of the 03 to 06 tj in 2028 is 40k in nada loan value. Only dealers and financial institutions can get these values thru nada. You are sitting pretty with that tj. Just overhaul it when needed. Yours is in great condition like mine. You could get a buyer at 30k I garantee it right now with a overhaul.
Remember when people complained about wranglers changing from leaf springs to coils? I think you make some valid points however Jeep sells more Wranglers now then ever before. You may not like the fancy features or the price but many people do and are very willing to spend the money. I never thought I would see people off roading in 100 thousand + dollar Jeeps but now it’s not uncommon! I also think you ignored mentioning that the Jeep today is vastly better built then the old Wranglers. What I love about the tj is the size so much smaller to use on the trail and to park in town. Great video though, thanks very much.
I 100% agree that it was a smart move for Jeep to add these extra features and make the 4 doors models because of how much it broadens the market they are selling to. The point of the video was more for people think about what they want to out of their Jeep. If that means having all of those new Jeep features then great! 🙂 I just personally love the older Jeep’s! Thanks for the kind words and thanks for watching!
Ever try to work on the newer Jeeps? Not practical. The simplicity of the TJ cannot be overstated. The satisfaction of being able to do most of the work/upgrades on my TJ is unparalleled IMO…
I would bet if manufactures went back to basics , nice styling and a rugged platform…they would sell like hotcakes! Basic features like manual controls and A/C
I had a 91 YJ Sahara, 4.0L, I loved it. I’ve been blessed to get a 4xe Rubicon and I’d take it all day over the YJ. TJ’s are sick though, glad yours is still hitting the trails and making you smile!!!
I’m with you I had a 2017 jku brand new (leased) after I turned it in, I bought a 2004 TJ with 95k miles and I love it ! They’re going to have to bury me in it lol 😆
Very good points! I love the TJ's and hope to have one someday. I have a 2015 JKU and love it. Just enough creature comforts but not too many electronics! I stop at JK.
I've only owned CJ's there fun and there rugged. I don't like the 4 Drs and don't need the fancy glitter garbage. You CJ is Sharp mine was purple with the soft top. Thank you for your videos
I love your video and I totally agree with your statements. I own a 2006 TJ Rubicon (first owner) and I’m still loving it for all the reasons you mentioned and many more. I’m at a point though where my Rubi needs some well deserved TLC and I would love to bring it back in its original shape with perhaps some extras. Unfortunately I have 2 “left hands”, no tools let alone a garage. So I’m frantically looking for a place where they do these types of overhauling. I have the budget but totally unfamiliar in this field. Having said all this, it’s sometimes very tempting to just go to the dealer, trade in my Rubi and buy a new one but my heart and mind just can’t let go of my TJ for the reasons you mentioned as well as personal sentiments. Thank you for the video… it encouraged and empowered me to continue the search for a place to overhaul my aging Rubi. Again, thank you!
I’m glad I could help! I would definitely hang onto your Rubi! I’ve known quite a few people who traded up and regretted it. Just fix it here and there when you can! Thanks for watching!
You’re over thinking it. If you can read, you can work on your Rubi. Basic hand tools, even ones with pretty good quality are not that expensive. My best advice is to buy the factory service manual for your Rubi. Start with an easy task like doing your own brakes. Or rotating your own tires. You’re able to do more than you think, and knowing you did the work is its own reward. Ps… buy a torque wrench…. And look up the torque specs for your task. The design engineers knew what they were doing
I hear you brother, I have a 2017 Jk only has a radio and ac, crank windows, no power locks, very very basic, only paid $24,000 brand new but today worth $29000 offered to trade up but don't want all the bells and whistles for 50,000 dallors, I'll keep her till she drops, good video keep up the good work
I had an 04 X 5sp that I traded in for a 12 JKUR because my 4'11" wife couldn't push the clutch in all the way to learn manual. That Jeep is at 231k and I'm thinking of going back. Ever tried to do the spark plugs on the 3.6L? Or have to get towed because the swaybar disco shorted out? I have and prefer the simplicity of the TJ. If I go back to the TJ, it does have to have cruise control though.
First was an 08 jk in 2011. Moved up to a 2015 jk that i ordered with half doors, v6 and a 6 speed. Sold it. Just bought an 03 tj x, inline 6 with a 5 speed. I already know i like it better than the jk.
@@Montanaoffroad1 I've known a few people who had these $65k and up JL Rubicons on the trail and were hesitant to risk the off road pinstriping. And these are people who had LJ's and CJ's, did their own wrenching. A couple of them have since sold those $65k JL Rubicons and went back to the CJ, TJ and YJ. When you're a true Jeeper, a rugged utilitarian, it's almost impossible to jump to a fluff JL.
Hey Michael, I have found my TJ to have plenty of power for me and I haven’t even re-geared yet because O want to do new axles. To now the 4cyl is a dog for sure. Thanks for watching!
Fellow Montanan. Used to have an 06 TJ (2012-2019), it was awesome. Have had a 2014 JKU for five years. JKU works for me with the larger storage capacity and longer wheelbase. WillI go for a JL in the future? No, for the reasons you articulate in the video.
I have both, a 97TJ and a 2020JL. They both have their advantages over one another....but my 97TJ is my baby and my love....it will never be sold....I can't say that for my JL.
I've owned a 82' Scrambler, a 99' sport, an 04 Unlimited, a 98' SE, and now an 05 Rubicon. And I just traded a 3500 6.7 Ram for a 22 Gladiator Sport S max tow. Love them both for what they are. The Rubicon is my trail ride and my Gladiator pulls are 5,500 lb travel trailer like a boss.
I use any TJ as a daily, short drive, to save miles on my F150. I would like another Wrangler but I think I will get a Bronco which drives nicer on the road and keep my TJ for the trails. It too is worth moe to me than selling it to another.
My Jeep is my daily driver too. I don’t even have another rig and I am perfectly happy with its overall performance in all situations! Some A/c would be nice but I will be adding that later. In the meantime a topless/doorless Jeep does the trick! Thanks for watching!
My '05 Rocky Mtn drives excellent on and off road. I put a modest lift on it with high quality suspension parts keeping it close to stock geometry. I can't recommend the 2.0 Fox Shox and the Fox steering stabilizer enough. Amazing handling on and off road.
I recently picked up an 01 tj 4.0 and I love the damn thing I love drivin it workin on it and lookin at it in 1985 I had a 1980 cj7 and loved it sold it and missed it sooooo much till now I feel like I got it back again it has that same jeep feel and charm but i think i like the tj better better ride love em both but I'm keeping her forever never gonna sell it great videos keep em coming.
I don’t blame them! I wouldn’t want to wheel 60+ thousand bucks around either lol. I does seem to defeat the purpose of owning a Jeep though. Not everyone is this way but it seems like most are. Thanks for watching!
People tend to bash the 4 cylinder Jeeps and say how inferior they are, I always remind them that all WW2 Jeeps were 4 cylinders as well. I also own a 2005 4 cylinder TJ and there’s nothing mine can’t do on the trail as the 6 cylinder ones.
@@Montanaoffroad1 yes sir. I love the simplicity of the Jeep. I don't need the heated seats and all that fancy stuff neither. Your TJ is awesome btw. 👌
I appreciate that man. Yes it’s still active. Winters in Montana can be pretty brutal I will be creating new content in the future! Thanks for watching!
I owned 2 TJ before This model is the best looking jeep from outside & inside the sound of the engine the driving experience the click noise from the gearbox the short turning.. no way you will find it on the newer jeep. I am still would like to own one again in but the newer model much better when you it's come to the reliability if you are going to use it everyday .. better suspension better drivetrain better engine fuel economy stronger gearbox ..
I had a 08 JK I stupidity sold, I miss having one, but, last year I got offered a great deal on a 06 Hummer H3 that I couldn't refuse, So that'll have to do.
@@Montanaoffroad1 LOL, watching your video makes me want to get a TJ now, But I don't see that happening anytime soon. The Hummer is pretty cool and in great shape, who knows, maybe I'll come across just as good a deal on a TJ or JK one day.
