What to look for when buying a used TJ?

[kidl33t]

Hey guys,

I'm looking at buying a used TJ sooner rather than later.  For my first Jeep I figured I would buy a pre-done truck so I can have fun while I carefully decide what I want to do when I build my own.  I assume that the rig that I buy will have been wheeled before, so given that, what should I look out for.  I actually have a used TJ in mind. 

Are there certain parts that are known to wear out fast in TJs?

Are there certain mods which are commonly done poorly to look out for?

Is there anything I should bear in mind while looking at used TJs?

I would appreciate any advice or cautionary tales! 

[FiEND]

depends on your budget and goals for the jeep

main thing is research a lot.  ask questions

our show and shine is july 17th so you will see a great variety of jeeps and modifications then.  also a good time to ask questions

we have some great mechanics on here that can help you out with vehicle inspections if you decide to fork out some big bucks.

first thing i would look at is tire wear.  how much rust is underneath.  fluid colors.

there is definitely a lot of parts that wear out, ten fold for modified/offroad jeeps.  especially at and behind the wheels and between the wheels too.

[GiS]

Look/Listen for a cracked manifold..

[ornamental]

take your time looing at TJ's   theres lots to choose from

[JackstandJohnny]

take your time looing at TJ's   theres lots to choose from

and a lot of them are junk....................... took us a long time to actually find one...... then we got rid of it

[hps4evr]

there have been a few people inthe last while ask this very question. it has been agreed on that a stock TJ would be a better purchase then a modified TJ. even if you spend a little more for a good condition stock unit.
odds are if it does have a lift, tires and bumpers it wont be the ones that you may like. and they will be worn or low end parts.
but, if you come across a litghtly modified Tj, then a proper inspection could score you a deal on a good starter jeep.
each situation will be different. like Fiend said, there are a bunch of techs that could do front to back inspections to see if a "good deal" really is a good deal.
good luck:)

[parabs]

shameful plug of my jeep for sale

I firmly believe you should buy a stockish one, usually they are in the best shape...however if it isnt going to be a DD, then consider something more "built".

If you come on the 17th, perhaps you will see me.  I have a strong desire to be at that meet, and meet some people.  So far I have only met about 5 people who frequent these boards...so if Im not away working, I will be jonseing to beat the pooks RTI ramp score..

 

[JackstandJohnny]

shameful plug of my jeep for sale

I firmly believe you should buy a stockish one, usually they are in the best shape...however if it isnt going to be a DD, then consider something more "built".

If you come on the 17th, perhaps you will see me.  I have a strong desire to be at that meet, and meet some people.  So far I have only met about 5 people who frequent these boards...so if Im not away working, I will be jonseing to beat the pooks RTI ramp score..

 

and you have bigger tires paul  

[parabs]

on a stock suspension, I dont know if larger tires will help or hurt me on an RTI ramp..thats why I was looking to see what a stock TJ came in at..