wanting to get a jeep

Joined: 15 Aug 2008 Location: Newcastle

Hey everybody
im new to outer limits
i have liked jeeps since i first ever seen 1 and ive always wanted 1
i was just wondering if yous could tell me a bit about them as in i hear they chew a bit of fuel, and are they good at 4x4ing are they expensive for parts etc. mainly the wrangler series i like, so wot would be the ideal model to get for my first jeep and im lookin at spending bout 8k to 10k on 1
thanks

Joined: 12 Dec 2002 Location: QLD

catman wrote:

Hey everybody
im new to outer limits
i have liked jeeps since i first ever seen 1 and ive always wanted 1
i was just wondering if yous could tell me a bit about them as in i hear they chew a bit of fuel, and are they good at 4x4ing are they expensive for parts etc. mainly the wrangler series i like, so wot would be the ideal model to get for my first jeep and im lookin at spending bout 8k to 10k on 1
thanks

Mate i'm the same, love the look of them...

Fuel use: From factory you'll get about 13-15L/100klm this increases with bigger tyres, guys with 33" tyres get an increase up to about 14-18L/100klm.

Offroading/4x4: They are tailor made for offroad use. They have solid axles, excellent driveline and engine all designed for 4x4 use. The engine has so much torque that it can idle up steep inclines like a diesel and the manual versions have heaps of engine braking, like a diesel. the axles flex well and turning circle is small. A 2 inch lift ($1000) and front swaybar disconects ($300) transform it into an offroad weapon Wink

Spare parts/servicing: This is the biggest myth out there. I reckon they are even cheaper to service than other 4wd's of the same year because of the simple engine bay layout. I get my services done at a 4wd specialist and he charges $130 for a minor service ($300 at the dealer) and $450 for a major service ($800 at the dealer). The dealer (as with any brand) can be expensive but there are heaps of aftermarket shops, even in australia, that specialise in wranglers to help bring alternative prices. There are more aftermarket parts available for TJ Wranglers than any other 4wd on the planet, this is because there are so many in the states.

Known Problems: If you lift them more than 2-3 inches you may need to get an aftermarket driveshaft fitted ($1200) because the factory rear driveshaft is too short. Otherwise you can lower the t-case with spacers when lifting up to 2". Rear main seal leaks, mine does it but as long as it's just a bit damp with an occasional drip, it's normal. If it's dripping a lot then you may need to get it replaced. They can't tow more than 1tonne braked, they've got crappy towing abilities because of the short wheel base. And because of that shortwheel base with coils they feel a bit weird if you're new to them but that's normal. They're not a hwy vehicle, they can be a bit bumpy on the bitumen. Otherwise that's about it.

Ideal for 1st buy?: They're all pretty much the same. Just try to buy the newest with the lowest klm on it. Also, try and get a stock one but there are many highly modified ones available with everything already fitted for serious offroad use. If the softtop is worn out you're up for about $1200-$2000 for a new one. but they're they're awesome tops and fit very well. Try http://www.ausjeepoffroad.com/forum/ for more jeep info.