Calgary Jeep Association

4x4 Related Groups => General Talk => Topic started by: lilskaterpunk on August 08, 2009, 07:54:59 PM

Title: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 08, 2009, 07:54:59 PM
Hey!

I had a family member that previously owned a YJ, so im kinda familiar with Jeeps in some ways lol
I would like to purchase a TJ Jeep and if im correct, they were made between 1997-2006. What year would u guys recommend to look into for TJ? I would prefer 4.0 L 6 cyl and is there any major advantages or disadvantages in the TJ and years? Auto or standard is cool.
TJ Sport, Rubicon, Safari, what would u recommend? I heard Rubicon are worse on gas mil and have some issues and sport would be the way to go and also sport are cheaper in price Ive notice. Would u say TJ sport would be the way to go?

Thanks
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 08, 2009, 10:19:58 PM
Hey!

Well I DO NOT plan on taking it off road like 4X4 or mountain climbing, etc. I would like to have more for looks and yet not lift so high that I have to start changing more parts then wanting. I would also like to keep a decent gas mileage because once lifting the Jeep, changing tires, u do lose gas mileage. (Experience this from my Blazer ZR2) It would be used for driving around town, to work and maybe the odd travel distance drive. I just prefer to fix/upgrade my vehicles just for a ruff looking 4x4 :2thumbsup:

My budget is still on decision lol If that make sense...
OPTION 1:
Currently I would have to sell my ZR2 and go from there or else keep my ZR2 and buy a cheaper Jeep TJ for a few grand ($1500-$3000) wrecked, low end shape and invest $3000-$5000 to drive for fun.

OPTION 2:
BUT what I would like to do is sell my ZR2, take the money and buy a Jeep TJ that I can fix up nice! I would say around $10,000 budget. ($12,000 MAX)
So my goal in looking for a Jeep TJ would be a nice body shape (No rust) I would like to go 32x12.5x15, 33x12.5x15 or MAYBE 35x12.5x15. That depends on budget. 2-3'' lift or the max without having to start changing parts. Accessories would be different, I can always find stuff down the road...
What would be the max lift kit I can do before changing parts? What brand or recommendations of lift kit? and how much gas mileage does it start effecting the Jeep when u jump up in size?

Are Rubicons more money then TJ Sport? What year are the Rubicons released? I would like to stay in a lower budget and then fix up Jeep.
Sounds like a Rubicon is more for 4X4 and hill climbing...

I love my BlazerZR2 but I know would like to try something different and to invest into a lift kit, larger tires, this is going to cost lots and yet the value for them are not high and I will not get my money worth if sell value. Plus its getting up there in Km's.
I think a Jeep would be sweet to drive and hopefully gas mileage does not cost's a fortune, but thats what u get when changing tire size and lifting lol I like the looks! ;)

So what would u say for buying? Sport or Rubicon. Best bang for the buck lol

Thanks for the help! Let me know if u need more info, or whatever! ;)
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: WhiteOut on August 08, 2009, 10:27:53 PM
Once you mod that Jeep you cut out about 90% or buyers.  You would barely get any money back from mods during resale.  Rubicons are more expensive since they were stock with MT's, lockers, beefier axles, regearing.  33+ tires wont like D30 and D35 axles and need strengthening or replacement.  The higher the lift, the more you need.  For a show Jeep it sounds like you would be fine with a BB, 32's and a non-Rubicon TJ.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 08, 2009, 11:03:35 PM
@WhiteOut
I totally understand about the resale value and that yes the Rubicon are more expensive because of those extra features. I totally think the TJ Sport is the way to go because I don't need all those extra features since im not going for 4X4 and hill/mountain climbing. Although they are nice features lol
Quote from: WhiteOut
For a show Jeep it sounds like you would be fine with a BB, 32's and a non-Rubicon TJ.
That does sound right! How about 33 on a TJ Sport? Would a 2-3 inch lift kit work?

@Tinkerer
Great info, thanks!
I believe the Sport is the way to go. Rubicon is more expensive and I don't plan on needing all those extra features, more of a show Jeep.

Now for a TJ Sport, what year would u guys recommend? (1997-2006) Is there different features in the newer Sport models? What is more recommend standard or automatic? (I know its personal choice and well u only get what u get when buying used lol)
Anything else u guys can say about TJ Sport?

Im currently looking at a 2001 TJ Sport, but I don't know if its worth it... Maybe I should look for something newer?

Thanks guys for ur help!

EDIT: Is there any Jeeps located in alberta area that u know are for sale? I have been searching online in the Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge area, but maybe u guys know of some buddys or sites to check out Jeeps for sale?

Thanks!




Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 08, 2009, 11:19:50 PM
@Tinkerer
I would prefer personal sale. Can u link me to the ones for sale on the site here?

Sorry but u wouldn't hesitate to buy another 04? or 01? lol If u dont mind me asking, what would an 04 go for?

Thanks!
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: JackstandJohnny on August 08, 2009, 11:29:29 PM
well buddy, soundsl ike you answered your own question.
or heres wha i think
grab yourself a 1999 - 02. cheap. and available.  get  A BONE STOCK ONE. do not pay more than 7k.  just cause they are asking 10 doesn't mean it will sell. it won't. trust me, and anyone who owns a tj/bought a TJ recently. 

anyways, get your bone stock TJ, change all your fluids, get it nice and tight.  look for a cheap lift, there are a few out there, zoneoffroad.ca, roughcountry, etc. (internet is your friend)   you are looking for a 4" or so lift, with coil springs.  no spacers, and you don't necessarily need new control arms (these add more money to the lift)  tires:  if you get a 4cylinder jeep, 32s or a 33x10.5.  ir a 6, you can get away with a 33x12.5.............   thats about what ya need. you can do this well under 10k. 

note, DON"T get a rubicon. if u don't wanna wheel, then don't spend the dough.  you will be fine with the above setup. your jeep will be badass LOOKING and still be a good DD.

hey Fraser, 33s are fine on a D30/35 combo, and i'll say that until the day you prove me wrong ;)
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: WhiteOut on August 08, 2009, 11:56:58 PM
Sorry John, I forgot it wasnt getting wheeled.  So no harsh stresses on the axles.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: JackstandJohnny on August 09, 2009, 12:11:43 AM
no worries fras. you can lock ur D35. beat the hell out of it. when you break an axle, i'll fix it for u.


you can run 37s on a D35 if you don't wheel it/try to spin the tires
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: Immortal on August 09, 2009, 01:01:50 AM


note, DON"T get a rubicon. if u don't wanna wheel, then don't spend the dough.  you will be fine with the above setup. your jeep will be badass LOOKING and still be a good DD.


You make me laugh... he'll end up wheeling it. even if it is "just to see what it can do.... juuuuuuust this once"

Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 09, 2009, 07:18:52 AM
You make me laugh... he'll end up wheeling it. even if it is "just to see what it can do.... juuuuuuust this once"


I don't plan on wheeling it lol Maybe the odd mud puddles or dirt from raining, nothing big lke mountains, rocks, etc. (http://bestsmileys.com/evil/3.gif)

I still think a TJ Sport is the way to go, as im on a budget and as posted above, the Rubicons are a price jump up for what u get in the package. I guess if a DEAL came around, then I would look into purchasing a Rubicon. So far no luck lol Its all been TJ Sports in my range. I still would prefer for a nice 4x4 ruff look to show (http://bestsmileys.com/thumbs/7.gif)

Is there a better year of the TJ Sports that I should look into? Like I know there very limited to power locks and A/C and other features. But what year of the TJ Sport ''IF'' they did include and features that others didnt? Are there any defects in certain years? Auto or standard?

Thank guys, great help! ;D
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: Immortal on August 09, 2009, 08:32:21 AM
I think this one is from Borgy's Automotive... used car lot...
http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-SUVs-trucks-vans-minivans-vans-JEEP-TJ-1999-W0QQAdIdZ147570212

or,

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-SUVs-trucks-vans-great-summer-vehicle-W0QQAdIdZ143267506

or,

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-SUVs-trucks-vans-SUV-crossover-1999-Jeep-TJ-Sahara-Financing-Financing-for-everyone-W0QQAdIdZ147108460

or,

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-SUVs-trucks-vans-1998-Jeep-TJ-SPORT-W0QQAdIdZ137701835

or,

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-SUVs-trucks-vans-1999-JEEP-TJ-Automatic-W0QQAdIdZ140643142

You get the picture... kijiji is your friend.

Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 09, 2009, 08:34:54 AM
@Immortal
Thanks for those links and trust me, ive checked through Kijiji in Lethbridge, Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer LOL and thousands of pages! I seen most of these and just thought I would ask to see if there are any members here selling.
I appreciate ur help though!
Keep the links coming in!!! :)

Just looking for some more help on my previous questions? :P
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: Immortal on August 09, 2009, 08:43:17 AM
I am an XJ fan.... let the flaming begin.
I had a 2001 TJ Sport, auto. I really liked it, but I already had a Jeep for the trail, and another stock XJ, and a WJ. I think in the 8 months I had it I drove it about 5000kms. I can't really tell you much about it, except that you will be alot happier with the 4.0L.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 09, 2009, 08:44:54 AM
@Immortal
Cool Cool!
Did u prefer Auto or Standard?
I agree about the 4.0L. I am looking, well a must have 4.0L and 6 Cyl.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: Immortal on August 09, 2009, 08:51:20 AM
to me it would have been more fun as a standard.... but, I prefer the auto for on-trail... just personal preference.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 10, 2009, 05:10:45 PM
Im use to Automatic as my BlazerZR2 is Auto, but I can drive standard and I heard standard are a little better on gas? Winter driving?

What do u guys think of a 2004 Jeep TJ Rocky Mountain Edition??? Anything better with them then a regular TJ? or just anything in general?
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: WhiteOut on August 10, 2009, 06:13:06 PM
The Rocky Mountain came with the D44 rear end, Alcoa rims, different fenders and nice interior.  Swing by the TJ tech section on JeepForum, they will be a huge help to you.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 10, 2009, 06:26:32 PM
@WhiteOut
Sweet. Im currently looking at a rocky edition, It looks more comfort and better features then a regular TJ. Would u say if I have the choice to buy one for a good deal, to get that instead of a Jeep TJ? They both would be pretty much equal as in stock form.

Thanks!
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: WhiteOut on August 10, 2009, 06:36:29 PM
How much of a price difference are we talking about?  Are you willing to pay that for the look of the different fender and the better interior?
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 10, 2009, 06:39:45 PM
How much of a price difference are we talking about?  Are you willing to pay that for the look of the different fender and the better interior?
Umm well if it works out ok, it would be around $9-10,000 for the Jeep. So price different would be $2000 and 2 or 3 years for the older Jeep. But I guess the older model, if still for sale, does have some beef up as in rims, tires, and an extra soft top. So there some kinda difference. Low range Kms, few ticks and scratches (Common on front of jeeps) the odd little fix here and there for the Rocky mountain. I guess it depends on price range of what I want to spend and how much I would put in. Im debating if a newer year jeep would be better then a older 99-01 year. I guess its shape and condition are a key part. Hope this makes sense... lol
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: WhiteOut on August 10, 2009, 06:46:41 PM
If the older Jeep is already lifted and had tires I would go for that, if not then the Rocky Mountain since you have to spend the money for lift/tires etc.  Have you though about insurance?  Its gonna be high, I was quoted ~$1800 for my ZJ.  The insurance companies consider TJ's to be convertible and higher risk (I think, my agent mentioned this.) add on more coverage for mods and then higher rates depending on age.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 10, 2009, 06:55:42 PM
Ya I did think about then buying a lift, tires, rims. So it may be a few more $$$ after wards. Its just depends if the price can go lower, then it should equal out to be the same with upgrades on the Rocky Mountain. Well see... Ill keep ya guys posted.

Yes I did check into insurance and yes it sky rockets! haha This sux! Ya its as a convertible and there again goes up. I could afford the PLPD and COMP coverage on the 04, but adding collision, well that just adds lots of $$$ monthly and well year. If I invest and vehicle is around $12000 for an 04 in great condition, collision would prob be a good idea eh??
As for the 01, well PLPD and COMP would be a fair price. Collision is more affordable as price drops quite a bit! So I'd prob pass on collision but then again, ur also driving around a $10000-$12000 2001 Jeep with investments. Collision might be worth it? So many decision and yes my age does not help as Im not 25 and NOT married :P

Decision, decision....
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: Spinalguy on August 10, 2009, 07:27:41 PM
You should not pay more than 7k for an unmolested jeep TJ sport.
Do not buy any jeep with lift and tires as their problems now become yours.
Buy a bone stock Sport.
7k MAX!

Spend 2k to get it the way you want it.

Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 11, 2009, 11:33:26 PM
Well guys, change of plans!
I am not looking for a newer Jeep as I would like to buy a older one in good condition and upgrade it myself, like a project. I would prob look around 1990+ YJ or TJ depends on price and condition. Price range of max would be $5000, would prefer a lower price around $3500-$5000

If anyone has one for sale, plz let me know. I am checking out the FOR SALE forum section but sometimes I miss topics and some are quite old I dunno if there still for sale. I can always ask :P I am also checking Kijiji.

I appreciate all ur help from above comments and learned lots!

Thanks!
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: YoungFluff03TJ on August 12, 2009, 08:08:53 AM
Hey man. If you want to buy a Jeep (or any car) talk to my buddy. on here i believ he is jrama. He can find and anything thing for a good deal, he just bought a 04 TJ RM Edition with 24 000 kms on it.......and it was cheap and in perfect shape. He has 33's with a 3" BDS lift and it looks like it will eat you, but still roadable if thats a word. give him a shout? for a cheap jeep maybe try the ol classifieds or auto trader <5000 book at your local C-store. good luck
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: lilskaterpunk on August 12, 2009, 06:30:04 PM
@YoungFluff03TJ
Sounds good dude, thanks for the heads up. Ill see what he can do...

I have been finding many in the Calgary area but they do seem to sell fast and well some are just not worth it for the price. Once it has rust growing, well thats one thing I do not like. I guess it depends where and how much are u willing to modify lol Im also looking in the Lethbridge area and no luck so far on older years :(

Cheers!
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: Jrama on August 14, 2009, 03:52:37 PM
Unfortunately there is no easy way to get a good deal on vehicle and yes TJ's have a very high resale value.The best way to go about getting a good deal on a used car is patience, research and agressive offers, not lowball offers. Espeacilly over the internet it never hurts to make a offer, the more respectful and polite you are the better the chances that the person will deal with you.
Kijiji.ca
Craigslist.com
Autotrader.ca
buysell.com
If you want a cheap(er) dana 44 look for a rocky mountain edition TJ

Are the sites you should be checking as often as possible waiting for a new Jeep to hit the market. Kijiji is where i have had the most luck with a lot of cars that i have bought. DON'T be in a rush to buy as there will always be another Jeep that will come along. Prices are often lower just outside of calgary too, if you don't mind the drive you can save a decent amount of money. Problem being that if the jeep sucks you just wasted your time.
-Compare prices religously and get a good feel for what the market value of a jeep is in calgary. (Example*) The below ad is a good price offer him 7500 and if he says no you can always raise your offer or say forget it...just an example. or just go look at it and make an offer in person, often if you show the interest of actually going there you can bargain down the price because they know your serious! Plus if the add says obo like this one your chances increase! Also showing that you can appreacite the car may help convince the seller to be more generous.  Hope this helps you out
http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-SUVs-trucks-vans-SUV-crossover-Must-Sell-Black-2002-Jeep-TJ-Sport-W0QQAdIdZ148135067
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: aaronck on August 18, 2009, 10:33:17 AM
I found my 2003 in the Bargain finder-another good resource-I spent a couple of months finding the right Jeep-thought about getting a few differnt ones and settling for one in a color I didn't like or one with a lot of KMs, and having patience paid off when I bought my Blue Rocky Mountain edition off a young lady-never wheeled or bagged-low KMs, Patriot Blue with really nice interior.  It's been great for 3 years now, other than a bad rear end that was taken care of before the warranty expired.
Title: Re: New Jeep TJ buyer. Few questions? need help!
Post by: esi on August 20, 2009, 10:41:01 PM
You make me laugh... he'll end up wheeling it. even if it is "just to see what it can do.... juuuuuuust this once"


This is true. Buying a jeep is like a disease, and its contageous too. If you get one and lift it you'll want to play with it, maybe in the city at first then you'll want to see what you can climb. Then you'll be at a ski hill and decide you're going to climb some snow piles in the parking lot. You screw around there for a while and find you had just about as much fun in the lot as you did on the hill. Then the snow melts and you think maybe I'll go check out some of the trail systems around the city. By the plans you already have, you seem to be infected and could already be passing it on to your friends as well.