The Jeep TJ really is a "dream car". I purchased my 2003 TJ new. It has over 260,000 miles now and does not use a drop of oil nor leak as drop of oil. It is my daily driver. Great around town and OK on the hwy. It converts to "motorhome" configuration when I go camping. I remove the passenger seat, add a shelf that extends from the dash to the rear window. Cover it with 4" foam and I have a 6'2" long comfortable bed. All camping gear fits under the shelf. During a 26 day vacation last year, a friend in another TJ and I did 20 high mountain passes in Colorado. The TJ's worked much better on the narrow high mountain passes than the newer wider Jeep models. Hate Gladiators on narrow trails.😠
That's awesome! At one time I was trying to figure out how to sleep in mine without taking out the passenger seat... Never did come up with anything haha
I just found your channel and I'm glad I did. My Jeeps are all CJ and YJ that I am building for my grandsons. They are about to finish college so they will have a fun toy, not a driver and far from stock but fun. Even though our goals are different I can appreciate the time and effort you put into your projects. Clean and thought out. Congratulations. You have a new sub.
Thanks! I've been taking time off after having my first kid but I'm back at it now, should have a new video out in the next few days and looking to make some jeep related videos soon
I would love to own a 1956 Chevy 2 Door Nomad Station Wagon. Had one when I was in the service but sold it. Congratulations on you Jeep and look forward to future renovations you're goin to do to it.
The only goal I have ever accomplished in my life was to obtain my dream vehicle, the last classic Jeep. When I started my life with her back in late 1996, I had no idea she was going to be the last model of the traditional Jeeps. She was labeled a 1997 but it was late 1996. The TJ proved to be the last model of the traditional Jeep. Today, I still have my dream vehicle. I will never part with her.
@@markdavis2803 There was a fire this year. The Engine wiring loom caught fire. I emptied two fire extinguishers and cut the battery cable with a bolt cutter to stop the current. The engine compartment was scorched with many burnt parts. The bonnet was scorched with holes on it. The grill was black and the headlights broken. For anybody else, my dear RMS Stargazer would have been committed to the salvage yard so that other old Jeeps may continue forward using her parts. But this was my childhood dream. The only goal I have ever accomplished in my life. I had my beloved taken home, much to the confusion of he tow truck operator. I let her stay in her bay, quietly for about three months, then the collecting of old parts and aftermarket parts were all ready to install. It was a labour of love. But she runs again! However, she got the AMC rattle that the AMC 242ci I6 is infamous for. She did not have that before the fire. But she is running. Love will conquer the eventual engine failure, as well. The AMC rattle usually means only 200.000 more miles until engine failure.
@@momohanakai2430 That engine will take a direct bolt-on of the 4.0 cylinder head with the direct fuel injection configuration making a more powerful engine than the 4.0 and the 4.2! I had a YJ made out of pieces. But it became such a confusing thing to work with thst I parted with her. That is why I got her so affordably. She had a 93 4.0 for the engine, an AX-5 transmission, the serial numbers did not match on the doors, tub, and engine. Parts were so hard to find until I pulled the old part first. But the bug was spreading throughout my body! I got my current RMS Stargazer because of Murphy, my "1990?" YJ Wrangler. I had Murphy nine years.
My 99 TJ Sahara is my dream car. Bought it back in 16'. Completely stock; previous owner "tried" to touch up chips with spray paint...yuck. Had a local detailing outfit remove all spray paint and then detail the exterior...looks almost new! Oh by the way, if your carpet is old and you wanna swap it out, bedrug makes an awesome tj kit. This was my first Mod, best first mod in my opinion! ( my carpet stunk...) Great Video, looking forward to more updates.
Right on man. Back in 1996 I bought my first Jeep while stationed in San Diego. A 1997 Jeep TJ. Since then , I’ve owned 3 TJ’s, 2 JK’s, and my current Jeep, a heavily built 2020 JLUR. My next and probably last Wrangler will be a project TJ
That is a great Jeep to have as a dream car. I have owned a 04 Jeep rubicon since new and still love it. Mine only has a 2” JKS lift on it. Keep the video coming.
Great video, thanks for sharing. I'm looking for the same thing. I bought a 2004 new but let it go. Now that the kid is off the collage, and i have permission from the wife, i'm on the hunt for another one.
So you posted this video a year ago--how much have you learned about cars in the time since? I had wanted a Jeep for a long time when my my car got wrecked about 6 years ago, so I bit the bullet and just replaced it with a 99 TJ (4.0, 5-speed manual). It was already lifted and had 35" mud tires when I got it. I've learned a LOT about fixing cars since then, and also bought a lot of tools, many of which I never even knew existed.
Honestly, not much to this point. Been busy with house projects and my first kid was born a few months ago. Haven't been able to make much time for the Jeep yet
@@ProjectBilld Ah, totally understand. My Jeep has at times been my primary focus with most of my free time for extended periods, and also sat completely ignored for extended periods (particularly when something was broken that felt too expensive or complicated to fully invest in addressing while other important stuff was going on). Congrats on the kid! Perhaps once the dust settles and you're comfortable with the day to day routine, you'll find more time to devote to the jeep. A bit of advice until then: 1.) look into picking up a very slow (~1 amp or less) battery maintainer for $30-40 off amazon and leave that plugged in, use an extension cord of necessary to keep the device and connections out of the rain. That will help preserve the battery, and you'll need that for the other advice 2.) Try to ensure you get out there and at least run the engine and drive it around the block once a week, or two weeks at most. This should include running the engine for at least 20 minutes, or 30 minutes if you're not actually driving it around. The reason for this is that gasoline combustion produces a lot of hydrogen as a byproduct, and that hydrogen combines with the carbon dioxide and monoxide in the exhaust to create water. That water gets deposited into the engine oil and also accumulates in the exhaust system, in particular the muffler, as the engine exhaust is expelled. Once the engine reaches full operating temp (including the oil, which takes longer than waiting just for the temp gauge to say the jeep is warm), the oil will be hot enough that any water byproducts will be vaporized and fully expelled along with the exhaust leaving the tailpipe. You'll need to keep running for at least a few minutes at that point so that the exhaust system and muffler are hot enough to vaporize and expel the water that has accumulated in the muffler. That's all a very long-winded way to say that you need to run the engine occasionally to keep the engine seals healthy, and then if you run the engine only rarely, each time you run it, you need to do so for a good 30 minutes or so to prevent excess water accumulation in the oil and exhaust system, which will cause the exhaust to rot very quickly. Driving even a little bit will help keep the bushings and joints in the steering and suspension from getting seized up or failing prematurely as well (be sure to add some grease to any grease fittings you can find underneath). Anyway, take care and best of luck with everything, whether you end up sticking with the Jeep or not.
Thank you for the excellent comment, lots of great info in there. Some I knew, lots I didn't! I've finally started to get back to working on some things over the last few weeks and it feels great. Going to finish up a few house projects first, but I do have plans for some jeep projects that are starting to come together!
I LOVE the suare lights so while I couldn't find a decent yj, I turned a tj into one. (Grill , lights etc...) & Happy with results. Dead giveaway is the dash, ain't messing with that as I LOVE the ac in the summer heat. 🤫
It's funny how divisive the square headlights are. I'd be interested to hear more about how you got the YJ front end to fit. I've had the thought to swap a CJ front end on to mine at some point
Great job! Just a hint though…get ready to not have any money for the foreseeable future. Jeeps do that to a person. I’ve been building on my 08 JK for years and having found a stopping point yet! Good fun though! Can’t wait to see what you do next.
Thanks! Take it slow and do small projects at first. Lots of great information out there so you can know what you're getting into before you even start
Noticed when you disconnected the negative terminal the batter moved a bit. I'd suggest making sure the battery is as snug as possible. When I first got my (new to me) TJ the battery was secured pretty loose and would wiggle its way to touching the wall of the car and shorting out the battery, alternator, and some sensors. Back in high school I was getting stranded all the time until I figured it out. Jeep looks great!
Wow, it only took you three weeks to find your Jeep. It took me a year and a half to find a Jeep TJ that wasn't modified and didn't have rust. I was pretty picky though. Had to be red, 2000-2002, manual, with a 6 cylinder. Found it in Florida and drove it home to Wisconsin. This is my third TJ.
I feel pretty lucky, that's for sure! I wasn't picky about color since I want to repaint it eventually. Mostly just Rubicon, manual, no rust and minimal mods. Why do you prefer the 00-02 years?
Upgraded my 2006 TJ a year ago. Did the exact stereo upgrade as you did and for the same reasons. The thing I did do in addition was buy a mono amp for the new 8” subwoofer mounted in the center console. The amp fit right under the steering column where it’s easily accessible to make adjustments. Since then, I built subwoofer enclosure and mounted it above where the back seat would be if it were installed. It’s attached to the roll-bar and doesn’t obstruct my vision. You made a great video for others. Great job!!
great video ! excellent narration ! As a TJ owner, i am also looking to upgrade my radio. you showed dash speaker pod, but no link. Would appreciate a link. I look forward to seeing more TJ build content.
I added a link just now. If you buy a head unit from Crutchfield, they'll let you know all the additional materials that you would need like the dash pods for your car. Let me know if you need a link to anything else specific
I have a 97 TJ i got in 05. Love it immensely. 4" lift, 37 swampers, 360 magnum/nv4500/241tc/5.13 gears/hp44 front/8.8 rear/3 link fr, 4 link rear(long arms), 8274 winch, anti rock swaybar, currie currectlync steering, procar seats, etc. Theres not much i havent tried over the years as far as mods. Yer off to a very good start with a rubicon! I look forward to more of yer vids 😊
@@ProjectBilld Over the years. It was totally stock when i got it(4.0/ax15/231tc/dana 35, 30 axles)I had a mercedes diesel in it before the magnum as well lol. Great economy but wayy too slow. Very first thing i learned when i got my jeep was the jeep wave lol. I couldnt figure out why i was being waved at. I thought only motorcycles n truckers waved at each other. Found out at a jeep camping we also wave. Good times lol
Excellent choice! I owned an 04 rubicon for 11 years, bought it 4 years old. BEST jeep of the 6 I’ve owned including yj’s tj’s and a jk! Both tj’s I owned were amazing and never had any serious problems, well built and durable! My 2000 sport 4.0L manual got sold to my brother in virtually as good of shape as it was when I bought it 6 years earlier and he drove it another 9 or 10 years with no major mechanical issues. The 04 rubicon held up just as well if not better! Hope you have the same luck with yours!
I’m looking to buy one from Davis auto sports. They have a TJ and LJ that are as close to new as possible. Hopefully I’ll join you in owning a jeep soon
Thanks for a great video. I agree, love my jeeps. I currently have three different models, YJ, TJ, and JK unlimited. They all have a different drive feel.
My parents used to have a 2002 Jeep. My mother sold it towards a really good friend. The Jeep has a plow with it. I remembered driving it w/o them around. It was an automatic which I can drive it. My father had a 1983 CJ-7 Jeep that he got in the early 90’s. It had less rust on it when he first got it. He gave it away towards another friend for clearing the front of the house. It had rust around the Jeep. It was an automatic,too.
Had a little TJ back in 04/05 (ish) and I loved it. Thoroughly regret ever selling it back when things got tight. I'd love to get my hands on a little Rubicon like you did. Hope you have as much fun with yours as I did with mine.
I have had mine TJ since 1996, bought as a 1997. It was the demonstration TJ with a few aftermarket additions and a nonstandard paint job, which actually was popular enough that Jeep started offering it in 2000 as solar yellow. I got it for a very good price because it had been titled to the dealership. Although, she had only 11 miles on the odometer. I will never part with her. We have been through way too much to ever end our journey together. I love my RMS Stargazer. She is my love, my life, my dream come true.
I got a 2011 Rubicon with 58K miles, would have loved a pre 2007, but impossible to find around here (Long Island) without 150K+ miles or a rotted out frame. My 2011 is spotless, looks out of the showroom, obviously garaged and looks better than my 2016 JKU 75th Anniversary Edition. I actually like the 3.8 much better than the 3.6 in the 2016.
That's not an "old jeep"!!! An old Jeep would be from the 70's or much older than that. Friend of mine has a '48 Jeep, from the Army. Completely stock, other than the usual consumable parts. Slow as a snail...but it will almost climb a tree!! Super fun to try to get it stuck. Rarely happens. Awesome vehicle!! Put the windshield down, no rollbar, and gas it!!! What could go wrong??
I identify so much with this video's title. ✌️ "Why would a Jeep be anyone's dream car?" WhAt!? Look, do I really need to explain? It's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand 🦆
I love my YJ none of all that plastic crap that will be dust in time, no EFI to go bad simple carb and ignition system can be fixed trail side. No way I would buy anything newer, once you start having all the common problems, cam crank maf tps fuel pump you will understand. You did find a nice clean one though clean it let it dry for days and then bed liner or "steelit" the entire underside. I will be driving my 1987 in 2050 or my son will be if I am dead by then.
I'm amazed at your natural project ability...I'm a bit of a clutz so it was great to watch. I'm worried that when I take the driver side seat out I will find the cushion is not salvageable. I almost thought you would put in new foam. Also, your segment on the new "head unit" and speaker replacement was interesting. Please send an update on any new projects with the TJ. 🤙
Thanks! If I could get a new seat cushion, I'd replace it. Haven't found a source for a new one. I'll likely have an upholstery shop repair the cushion eventually.
If you want to be someone, go buy a new truck. If you already know who you are, you drive an old jeep. Every part that breaks is an opportunity for an upgrade. Love my XJ.
I was told that a stock Jeep is capable of traveling 90% of all trails in the world. When a smart-ass asked what about the other 10%, the guy said with a straight face, 'learn to walk'.
Except, nah. CJ6, CJ7, CJ8 (you aren’t convincing anything but a mirror the Scrambler isn’t “old.”) And sure, the TJ is now the “newest” “old Jeep.” Old doesn’t end with Boomers, ya know. Always gonna be a new old.
I bought a stock head unit off of eBay that was upgraded to blue tooth. Wife said she likes jeeps. Back in 2012. I noticed a 2004 Jeep Wrangler Sport at a local dealership that had only 30,000 on it. We lived in Michigan at the time. But the prior owner didn’t drive it in the winter. So I bought it. It’s a soft top. Only options that came on it are air conditioning, automatic transmission and larger tires. It now has 95,000 miles. We moved to Florida in 2013 and then Alabama in 2021. We have all ways stored it in our garage. But it needed a good detail. Just got it back from a professional detailer. He spent over twenty hours on it. It looks amazing. Before that I found a local mechanic that only works on Jeeps. And he works out of his home. Had him go through everything. Before the detail. He only charges $80 per hour. So rear main, oil pan gasket, fuel pump,valve cover gasket, pion seals, reseal differential covers, brake booster, master cylinder, slotted front disks, pads, drums and pads, thermostat, heater hoses, radiator hoses and serpentine belt. And five new BF Goodrich TA K2 tires. Found a local company that repairs automotive interiors. And they repair hard plastics, leather and vinyl. Like yours my door panel is cracked. So I’m going to have that done next. Some of the items above I installed or replaced myself. But I make a good living. And it’s easier on the back having someone else do some of the work. Congratulations on yours.
I just put hundreds of hours in mine. Torque box to floor sections back sill torque bushing for body ground the paint down to the bare bone epoxy primer sand able primer. Paint and clearcoat about 4 coats. It’s a two hour everyday project. And front fenders everything painted under everything and back bumper.😅
It's amazing how, in nearly all cases, products become less durable and reliable as technology advances. The newest car I've ever owned is an 06. I will never buy a new car. They make them so difficult and inconvenient to work on you almost HAVE to take them to an expensive mechanic to have them fixed or maintained. It disgusts me.
I have a 2005 rubicon and just put a wheel chair seat gel cushion to get me out of the sink hole ha ha . mine's an automatic 109 thousand miles. do you lknow anything about factory jeeps that they put a little surprise on each one? I've looked but never found anything. my buddies got a pair of sandals on the frame right above the wipers.
Agree! And awesome use of the head unit. Judging from the video I already have my dream Jeep, but let’s say a Shelby Daytona or Ferrari 250 GTO. One of those should do the trick. I think your next video series should be on a replica build….
That's a good question that I wish I had an exact answer to. Becoming a dad changed life way more than I expected and I've had a hard time figuring out routines and being motivated to make videos since. I am working on a new video right now (not jeep related) and I'm hopeful I'll finish that by the end of October. I still have lots of things I want to do with my jeep so content is planned, it's just me getting back into the swing of things.
Haha there's a reason jeep can be an acronym for just empty every pocket. My advice would be to try and hold off until you've driven it for awhile. I bought a bunch of things at first that I ended up not wanting once I got a feel for my jeep
Ahh yes very good thanks I too have a tj,good condition,love to fit a head unit like or similar but I live in NZ, makes it a bit tricky to get upgrades to suit new units,but I enjoyed your videos,FRED HAMMER
Also any idea what backup camera can be easily wired into that head unit? I think there was a wire or connector for one. I know the head unit has a camera function.
Sorry for the late reply, missed your comment. I'm actually looking into this right now as I want to add one to mine. I think any backup camera with a power wire to tap into the reverse lights would work. It looks like where to mount the camera is the hard part. Using a license plate mount camera would be easiest but it would be off center. I'm trying to find a way to mount mine behind/through the spare tire. I pretty sure the JLs do something like that
I had a 1997 TJ from new. I replaced the stock plastic center console with an all metal one with a nice vinyl armrest. Way more secure and very easy to install. I sold that TJ with only 77k on the odometer because it became a money sucking nightmare. Loved that jeep, though and still think about getting another one.
You bought the best one ever those model years and 4.0 inline 6 is the best engine ever
The Jeep TJ really is a "dream car". I purchased my 2003 TJ new. It has over 260,000 miles now and does not use a drop of oil nor leak as drop of oil. It is my daily driver. Great around town and OK on the hwy. It converts to "motorhome" configuration when I go camping. I remove the passenger seat, add a shelf that extends from the dash to the rear window. Cover it with 4" foam and I have a 6'2" long comfortable bed. All camping gear fits under the shelf. During a 26 day vacation last year, a friend in another TJ and I did 20 high mountain passes in Colorado. The TJ's worked much better on the narrow high mountain passes than the newer wider Jeep models. Hate Gladiators on narrow trails.😠
That's awesome! At one time I was trying to figure out how to sleep in mine without taking out the passenger seat... Never did come up with anything haha
I also have a 2003 tj . I love it,has no rust ,no death wobble,(fixed that with an adjustable castor) easy to fix,and just fun to drive.
These are some quality mods. I had no idea about steaming old foam 👍
I just found your channel and I'm glad I did. My Jeeps are all CJ and YJ that I am building for my grandsons. They are about to finish college so they will have a fun toy, not a driver and far from stock but fun.
Even though our goals are different I can appreciate the time and effort you put into your projects. Clean and thought out. Congratulations. You have a new sub.
I agree about Crutchfield ,They have what you need.I have used them since 1980.
I’ve done car audio for years, u did a really clean install and used excellent gear! Nice job
Thanks! If I'm going to put the time in might as well make what gear I install worth it!
Going to steal the stirrup idea, love it ! Getty up little TJ !
Great professionally done and informative video. As an owner of a 2001 Sport Wrangler, I look forward to more of your videos!
Thanks! I've been taking time off after having my first kid but I'm back at it now, should have a new video out in the next few days and looking to make some jeep related videos soon
I would love to own a 1956 Chevy 2 Door Nomad Station Wagon. Had one when I was in the service but sold it. Congratulations on you Jeep and look forward to future renovations you're goin to do to it.
That's a neat car! Is it a wagon version of the bel air? That hatch/tailgate combo is very unique too
I'm sold on the CGI dinosaur 🦕 ❤
Great video
Blew the whole budget on it. Worth it!
The only goal I have ever accomplished in my life was to obtain my dream vehicle, the last classic Jeep. When I started my life with her back in late 1996, I had no idea she was going to be the last model of the traditional Jeeps. She was labeled a 1997 but it was late 1996. The TJ proved to be the last model of the traditional Jeep. Today, I still have my dream vehicle. I will never part with her.
Same here. 2005 model. #TJforlife
@@markdavis2803 There was a fire this year. The Engine wiring loom caught fire. I emptied two fire extinguishers and cut the battery cable with a bolt cutter to stop the current. The engine compartment was scorched with many burnt parts. The bonnet was scorched with holes on it. The grill was black and the headlights broken. For anybody else, my dear RMS Stargazer would have been committed to the salvage yard so that other old Jeeps may continue forward using her parts. But this was my childhood dream. The only goal I have ever accomplished in my life. I had my beloved taken home, much to the confusion of he tow truck operator. I let her stay in her bay, quietly for about three months, then the collecting of old parts and aftermarket parts were all ready to install. It was a labour of love. But she runs again! However, she got the AMC rattle that the AMC 242ci I6 is infamous for. She did not have that before the fire. But she is running. Love will conquer the eventual engine failure, as well. The AMC rattle usually means only 200.000 more miles until engine failure.
Sorry to hear about the fire but glad you got her running again!
I have a 1987 YJ, love her to death. She is my lovely girl.
@@momohanakai2430 That engine will take a direct bolt-on of the 4.0 cylinder head with the direct fuel injection configuration making a more powerful engine than the 4.0 and the 4.2! I had a YJ made out of pieces. But it became such a confusing thing to work with thst I parted with her. That is why I got her so affordably. She had a 93 4.0 for the engine, an AX-5 transmission, the serial numbers did not match on the doors, tub, and engine. Parts were so hard to find until I pulled the old part first. But the bug was spreading throughout my body! I got my current RMS Stargazer because of Murphy, my "1990?" YJ Wrangler. I had Murphy nine years.
Great job with this. I'm thinking about buying a TJ myself. Trying to learn what to look for and what to look out for.
There are some great guides on what to look for on the wrangler tj forum
It's nice to see someone doing such good work. Nice job
Thank you!
those bolts that hold the seats in are NO JOKE. I had a 93 yj with the same setup, and I herniated two discs in my lower back trying to remove them!
You aren't kidding! That's rough
That was a really good video. Honestly, one of the best videos I have watched in a long time. Great job!
Thank you! Your comment means a lot
Bro I just hit 220K mark from my wk jgc 07 4wd limited still runs amazing love her!
Nice! Keep her going!
My 99 TJ Sahara is my dream car. Bought it back in 16'. Completely stock; previous owner "tried" to touch up chips with spray paint...yuck. Had a local detailing outfit remove all spray paint and then detail the exterior...looks almost new! Oh by the way, if your carpet is old and you wanna swap it out, bedrug makes an awesome tj kit. This was my first Mod, best first mod in my opinion! ( my carpet stunk...) Great Video, looking forward to more updates.
Previous owner stories are always special haha. Thanks for the tip about the floor liner!
Great video. Love your new ride!
Thanks! 2 years have gone by somehow. Still love it
Right on man. Back in 1996 I bought my first Jeep while stationed in San Diego. A 1997 Jeep TJ. Since then , I’ve owned 3 TJ’s, 2 JK’s, and my current Jeep, a heavily built 2020 JLUR. My next and probably last Wrangler will be a project TJ
TJ torx bolts have loctite.Heating the bolts releases the loctite.
Rocker slider works better and a solid grab handle on the windshield pillar works good
My wife is short an she gets in my 06 TJ with ease
I built so many cars with my dad growing up. So glad you mad this video. Just bought my first Jeep (2001 wrangler) and I hope my son loves it too
I'm sure he will as you build memories together with it!
omg, I just got a 2001 wrangler!!
I love my 2004 Jeep TJ. The only mechanical issue was a worn clutch. I still drive it.
I kept a maintenance log for my beloved Jeep since I bought it in 2004.
How many miles have you put on it?
@@ProjectBilld It has about 206,000 miles on it.
That is a great Jeep to have as a dream car. I have owned a 04 Jeep rubicon since new and still love it. Mine only has a 2” JKS lift on it. Keep the video coming.
Awesome Jeep. That’s going to be a lot fun. 👍
Loving it so far!
Love how 20 plus years later they used the seat cover attachment system for the soft top on the JL
Great video, thanks for sharing. I'm looking for the same thing. I bought a 2004 new but let it go. Now that the kid is off the collage, and i have permission from the wife, i'm on the hunt for another one.
Best of luck! Hope you find a good one soon
Just picked up my first jeep - 1979 CJ5 V8. Love it!
Awesome! Love the CJs
So you posted this video a year ago--how much have you learned about cars in the time since?
I had wanted a Jeep for a long time when my my car got wrecked about 6 years ago, so I bit the bullet and just replaced it with a 99 TJ (4.0, 5-speed manual). It was already lifted and had 35" mud tires when I got it. I've learned a LOT about fixing cars since then, and also bought a lot of tools, many of which I never even knew existed.
Honestly, not much to this point. Been busy with house projects and my first kid was born a few months ago. Haven't been able to make much time for the Jeep yet
@@ProjectBilld Ah, totally understand. My Jeep has at times been my primary focus with most of my free time for extended periods, and also sat completely ignored for extended periods (particularly when something was broken that felt too expensive or complicated to fully invest in addressing while other important stuff was going on).
Congrats on the kid! Perhaps once the dust settles and you're comfortable with the day to day routine, you'll find more time to devote to the jeep.
A bit of advice until then:
1.) look into picking up a very slow (~1 amp or less) battery maintainer for $30-40 off amazon and leave that plugged in, use an extension cord of necessary to keep the device and connections out of the rain. That will help preserve the battery, and you'll need that for the other advice
2.) Try to ensure you get out there and at least run the engine and drive it around the block once a week, or two weeks at most. This should include running the engine for at least 20 minutes, or 30 minutes if you're not actually driving it around. The reason for this is that gasoline combustion produces a lot of hydrogen as a byproduct, and that hydrogen combines with the carbon dioxide and monoxide in the exhaust to create water. That water gets deposited into the engine oil and also accumulates in the exhaust system, in particular the muffler, as the engine exhaust is expelled. Once the engine reaches full operating temp (including the oil, which takes longer than waiting just for the temp gauge to say the jeep is warm), the oil will be hot enough that any water byproducts will be vaporized and fully expelled along with the exhaust leaving the tailpipe. You'll need to keep running for at least a few minutes at that point so that the exhaust system and muffler are hot enough to vaporize and expel the water that has accumulated in the muffler.
That's all a very long-winded way to say that you need to run the engine occasionally to keep the engine seals healthy, and then if you run the engine only rarely, each time you run it, you need to do so for a good 30 minutes or so to prevent excess water accumulation in the oil and exhaust system, which will cause the exhaust to rot very quickly. Driving even a little bit will help keep the bushings and joints in the steering and suspension from getting seized up or failing prematurely as well (be sure to add some grease to any grease fittings you can find underneath).
Anyway, take care and best of luck with everything, whether you end up sticking with the Jeep or not.
Thank you for the excellent comment, lots of great info in there. Some I knew, lots I didn't! I've finally started to get back to working on some things over the last few weeks and it feels great. Going to finish up a few house projects first, but I do have plans for some jeep projects that are starting to come together!
Congratulations, I just bought one and it's great.
I LOVE the suare lights so while I couldn't find a decent yj, I turned a tj into one. (Grill , lights etc...) & Happy with results.
Dead giveaway is the dash, ain't messing with that as I LOVE the ac in the summer heat. 🤫
It's funny how divisive the square headlights are. I'd be interested to hear more about how you got the YJ front end to fit. I've had the thought to swap a CJ front end on to mine at some point
Well then your dream car isn't a jeep now is it... Listen up! A JEEP ISNT A CAR!!
Great job! Just a hint though…get ready to not have any money for the foreseeable future. Jeeps do that to a person. I’ve been building on my 08 JK for years and having found a stopping point yet! Good fun though! Can’t wait to see what you do next.
Just Empty Every Pocket
Dude that is an awesome T-shirt and a good Jeep choice.
Thanks!
Great and detailed videos! Keep up the good work!!
You should have played a little Wedding Bells Blues by the Fifth Dimension to demonstrate your stereo. Sneek that Bill word in one more time.
My wife played that song for me as a joke before we were dating! I think she was sending a message... guess it worked lol
Your so agil with restoring your Jeep
I wish I was like you to restore My 99 cherokee sport.....
Good job....
Thanks! Take it slow and do small projects at first. Lots of great information out there so you can know what you're getting into before you even start
Why its called Jeep. During WWII, when Jeep was introduced, it was called General Purpose Vehicle. Later it was called GP..gradually GP became Jeep.
Love the video! I bought my dream car last fall...a 2004 TJ Rubicon :-) Mine is red.
Sweet rig I am sure of that!
Noticed when you disconnected the negative terminal the batter moved a bit. I'd suggest making sure the battery is as snug as possible. When I first got my (new to me) TJ the battery was secured pretty loose and would wiggle its way to touching the wall of the car and shorting out the battery, alternator, and some sensors. Back in high school I was getting stranded all the time until I figured it out. Jeep looks great!
Thanks! I'll check on that and make sure it's secure!
Wow, it only took you three weeks to find your Jeep. It took me a year and a half to find a Jeep TJ that wasn't modified and didn't have rust. I was pretty picky though. Had to be red, 2000-2002, manual, with a 6 cylinder. Found it in Florida and drove it home to Wisconsin. This is my third TJ.
I feel pretty lucky, that's for sure! I wasn't picky about color since I want to repaint it eventually. Mostly just Rubicon, manual, no rust and minimal mods. Why do you prefer the 00-02 years?
@@ProjectBilld I wanted a Jeep TJ like I had (2000 and a 2001) and in 2003 they changed some of the design elements.
Ah gotcha. Makes sense that you'd want one like you had before
Can I buy it from you Jeff? Lol
@@FrameRot Sorry, after that much work finding it, it's a keeper. Haha.
Beautiful job
Thanks!
Good vid but you need to find a better dream car 😂
I hope you will film more updates to your jeep. I really like seeing what you've done and will do in the future.
I definitely will! First kid on the way so other projects are taking priority right now
@@ProjectBilld totally understand, congratulations!
Nice RIG
Thanks!
Oh this is my dream car
When I get a job, I will buy a new car and do a restoration
Upgraded my 2006 TJ a year ago. Did the exact stereo upgrade as you did and for the same reasons. The thing I did do in addition was buy a mono amp for the new 8” subwoofer mounted in the center console. The amp fit right under the steering column where it’s easily accessible to make adjustments. Since then, I built subwoofer enclosure and mounted it above where the back seat would be if it were installed. It’s attached to the roll-bar and doesn’t obstruct my vision. You made a great video for others. Great job!!
Awesome! Congratulations : )
Thank you!
Great video 👌🏼👌🏼
Thanks!
My daily driver last summer was a '53 m38a1. This summer an '81 Scrambler or '72 cj5. Might have to flip a coin on that one. :)
Those are some awesome options!
@@ProjectBilld I've being collecting these for the past 20 years, when they were a little more affordable. Looking forward to the coin toss. :)
Great video and an excellent narrative.
Thanks!
great video ! excellent narration ! As a TJ owner, i am also looking to upgrade my radio. you showed dash speaker pod, but no link. Would appreciate a link. I look forward to seeing more TJ build content.
I added a link just now. If you buy a head unit from Crutchfield, they'll let you know all the additional materials that you would need like the dash pods for your car. Let me know if you need a link to anything else specific
I have a 97 TJ i got in 05. Love it immensely. 4" lift, 37 swampers, 360 magnum/nv4500/241tc/5.13 gears/hp44 front/8.8 rear/3 link fr, 4 link rear(long arms), 8274 winch, anti rock swaybar, currie currectlync steering, procar seats, etc.
Theres not much i havent tried over the years as far as mods.
Yer off to a very good start with a rubicon!
I look forward to more of yer vids 😊
That's a serious list of mods. Did you do all of them at once or were they spread out over the years?
@@ProjectBilld Over the years. It was totally stock when i got it(4.0/ax15/231tc/dana 35, 30 axles)I had a mercedes diesel in it before the magnum as well lol. Great economy but wayy too slow.
Very first thing i learned when i got my jeep was the jeep wave lol. I couldnt figure out why i was being waved at. I thought only motorcycles n truckers waved at each other. Found out at a jeep camping we also wave. Good times lol
Excellent choice! I owned an 04 rubicon for 11 years, bought it 4 years old. BEST jeep of the 6 I’ve owned including yj’s tj’s and a jk! Both tj’s I owned were amazing and never had any serious problems, well built and durable! My 2000 sport 4.0L manual got sold to my brother in virtually as good of shape as it was when I bought it 6 years earlier and he drove it another 9 or 10 years with no major mechanical issues. The 04 rubicon held up just as well if not better! Hope you have the same luck with yours!
Thanks! The 4.0s are awesome engines and I hope I can keep mone going for a long long time
I’m looking to buy one from Davis auto sports. They have a TJ and LJ that are as close to new as possible. Hopefully I’ll join you in owning a jeep soon
Thanks for a great video. I agree, love my jeeps. I currently have three different models, YJ, TJ, and JK unlimited. They all have a different drive feel.
Oh that's awesome! Which one do you like best?
My parents used to have a 2002 Jeep. My mother sold it towards a really good friend. The Jeep has a plow with it. I remembered driving it w/o them around. It was an automatic which I can drive it. My father had a 1983 CJ-7 Jeep that he got in the early 90’s. It had less rust on it when he first got it. He gave it away towards another friend for clearing the front of the house. It had rust around the Jeep. It was an automatic,too.
Had a little TJ back in 04/05 (ish) and I loved it. Thoroughly regret ever selling it back when things got tight. I'd love to get my hands on a little Rubicon like you did. Hope you have as much fun with yours as I did with mine.
Sorry that you had to sell it. Hope things are better now and you'll be able to find another one!
I have had mine TJ since 1996, bought as a 1997. It was the demonstration TJ with a few aftermarket additions and a nonstandard paint job, which actually was popular enough that Jeep started offering it in 2000 as solar yellow. I got it for a very good price because it had been titled to the dealership. Although, she had only 11 miles on the odometer. I will never part with her. We have been through way too much to ever end our journey together. I love my RMS Stargazer. She is my love, my life, my dream come true.
I got a 2011 Rubicon with 58K miles, would have loved a pre 2007, but impossible to find around here (Long Island) without 150K+ miles or a rotted out frame. My 2011 is spotless, looks out of the showroom, obviously garaged and looks better than my 2016 JKU 75th Anniversary Edition. I actually like the 3.8 much better than the 3.6 in the 2016.
The road salt makes it difficult to find much north of Virginia that isn't completely rotted 😢 glad you were able to find a substitute though!
2004 Rubicon TJ
You have good taste!
I have an 08 and want to add a tj 2000 4.0L heard those are nearly bulletproof
They are. But if I were going to go through the trouble and cost of swapping engines I'd opt for an LS or similar
That's not an "old jeep"!!!
An old Jeep would be from the 70's or much older than that.
Friend of mine has a '48 Jeep, from the Army.
Completely stock, other than the usual consumable parts.
Slow as a snail...but it will almost climb a tree!!
Super fun to try to get it stuck.
Rarely happens.
Awesome vehicle!!
Put the windshield down, no rollbar, and gas it!!!
What could go wrong??
I identify so much with this video's title. ✌️
"Why would a Jeep be anyone's dream car?" WhAt!? Look, do I really need to explain? It's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand 🦆
I love my YJ none of all that plastic crap that will be dust in time, no EFI to go bad simple carb and ignition system can be fixed trail side. No way I would buy anything newer, once you start having all the common problems, cam crank maf tps fuel pump you will understand. You did find a nice clean one though clean it let it dry for days and then bed liner or "steelit" the entire underside. I will be driving my 1987 in 2050 or my son will be if I am dead by then.
I'm amazed at your natural project ability...I'm a bit of a clutz so it was great to watch. I'm worried that when I take the driver side seat out I will find the cushion is not salvageable. I almost thought you would put in new foam. Also, your segment on the new "head unit" and speaker replacement was interesting. Please send an update on any new projects with the TJ. 🤙
Thanks! If I could get a new seat cushion, I'd replace it. Haven't found a source for a new one. I'll likely have an upholstery shop repair the cushion eventually.
good luck young man / happy for you that you got what you wanted / enjoy
Thank you for the kind words!
This is exactly what I've been wanting to do to my dash/audio when I'm done with my LS swap, Great video!! Love the attention to detail
Thanks! An LS swap sounds sweet, I'd love to one day
If you want to be someone, go buy a new truck. If you already know who you are, you drive an old jeep.
Every part that breaks is an opportunity for an upgrade.
Love my XJ.
I was told that a stock Jeep is capable of traveling 90% of all trails in the world. When a smart-ass asked what about the other 10%, the guy said with a straight face, 'learn to walk'.
YJ was the “Wrongler”.
A TJ is not an old JEEP a CJ5 or older is an old JEEP.
Except, nah. CJ6, CJ7, CJ8 (you aren’t convincing anything but a mirror the Scrambler isn’t “old.”) And sure, the TJ is now the “newest” “old Jeep.” Old doesn’t end with Boomers, ya know. Always gonna be a new old.
your TJ STORY is so close to mine... very cool
Well if you going to get a Jeep say it right it's not a car. It's a Jeep. 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
Thread locker ?
For the stuck seat bolt? It's certainly possible but I dunno why it would have been as difficult as it was
Ahh.... Top and doors off.... You must live up north sir. It's 104 in Houston TX today. Maybe I'll try that in January.
NC. Probably 2 months in both the spring and fall that are really top off weather
My dream car is the same Jeep as the one you have now. In my country Jeeps are not so common, and way to expensive, so it is a dream
Over here they're super common but still very expensive! Hope you can find one someday!
I bought a stock head unit off of eBay that was upgraded to blue tooth. Wife said she likes jeeps. Back in 2012. I noticed a 2004 Jeep Wrangler Sport at a local dealership that had only 30,000 on it. We lived in Michigan at the time. But the prior owner didn’t drive it in the winter. So I bought it. It’s a soft top. Only options that came on it are air conditioning, automatic transmission and larger tires. It now has 95,000 miles. We moved to Florida in 2013 and then Alabama in 2021. We have all ways stored it in our garage. But it needed a good detail. Just got it back from a professional detailer. He spent over twenty hours on it. It looks amazing. Before that I found a local mechanic that only works on Jeeps. And he works out of his home. Had him go through everything. Before the detail. He only charges $80 per hour. So rear main, oil pan gasket, fuel pump,valve cover gasket, pion seals, reseal differential covers, brake booster, master cylinder, slotted front disks, pads, drums and pads, thermostat, heater hoses, radiator hoses and serpentine belt. And five new BF Goodrich TA K2 tires. Found a local company that repairs automotive interiors. And they repair hard plastics, leather and vinyl. Like yours my door panel is cracked. So I’m going to have that done next. Some of the items above I installed or replaced myself. But I make a good living. And it’s easier on the back having someone else do some of the work. Congratulations on yours.
Thanks! I can tell you love your jeep. Still haven't gotten around to fixing my door panels ha
Only in the know will appreciate Jeeps(Wranglers the real one).
My NEW CAR is a 2001 Wrangler TJ, 4 banger
I just put hundreds of hours in mine. Torque box to floor sections back sill torque bushing for body ground the paint down to the bare bone epoxy primer sand able primer. Paint and clearcoat about 4 coats. It’s a two hour everyday project. And front fenders everything painted under everything and back bumper.😅
My dream car is a Mahindra Thar ( Indian version of Jeep Wrangler) .
I have a TJ ! Love my 2003 wrangler X - when you bought out that SOWING MACHINE to work on it oknow you are serious hahaha
My dream car is my 1998 Ford Explorer I love it to death
My 2015 2 door jk is my dream car too. Its no my day driver so its just for fun
It's amazing how, in nearly all cases, products become less durable and reliable as technology advances. The newest car I've ever owned is an 06. I will never buy a new car. They make them so difficult and inconvenient to work on you almost HAVE to take them to an expensive mechanic to have them fixed or maintained. It disgusts me.
Yep I used to work on our other vehicles but it's just too much of a hassle so I end of taking them to a mechanic
I have a 2005 rubicon and just put a wheel chair seat gel cushion to get me out of the sink hole ha ha . mine's an automatic 109 thousand miles. do you lknow anything about factory jeeps that they put a little surprise on each one? I've looked but never found anything. my buddies got a pair of sandals on the frame right above the wipers.
I've never heard that before but now I'm curious. I'll have to keep an eye out for anything like that
Agree! And awesome use of the head unit. Judging from the video I already have my dream Jeep, but let’s say a Shelby Daytona or Ferrari 250 GTO. One of those should do the trick. I think your next video series should be on a replica build….
Why not both! They are both beautiful cars
I was wondering, when are you gonna make your next video on the jeep? I loved watching the first one gave me some ideas for mine.
That's a good question that I wish I had an exact answer to. Becoming a dad changed life way more than I expected and I've had a hard time figuring out routines and being motivated to make videos since. I am working on a new video right now (not jeep related) and I'm hopeful I'll finish that by the end of October. I still have lots of things I want to do with my jeep so content is planned, it's just me getting back into the swing of things.
I like it, keep sharing your ideas for your jeep, good luck and can’t wait for your next video.👌
Thanks! I'm trying really hard to get house stuff out of the way so I can make another jeep video or two this year
I just bout a 2012 jk, and i have bought so many things for it already, and have a bunch more things in my amazon cart 😂
Haha there's a reason jeep can be an acronym for just empty every pocket. My advice would be to try and hold off until you've driven it for awhile. I bought a bunch of things at first that I ended up not wanting once I got a feel for my jeep
That's quite a find! Nice work. Just curious what you paid for the jeep? People want a small fortune these days.
A small fortune! I paid right in the middle of the kbb private party range. It was certainly pricey but I fair given what they are going for
Ahh yes very good thanks I too have a tj,good condition,love to fit a head unit like or similar but I live in NZ, makes it a bit tricky to get upgrades to suit new units,but I enjoyed your videos,FRED HAMMER
That stirrup strap idea is clever. I have a 5-year-old that has trouble getting in my jeep with factory suspension. I might give this a try.
Let me know if you do, I'm curious how well it would work for a kid
Was thinking the same thing...
I'm just a BILL
Yes i'm only a BILL
And i'm sitting here on Capitol HILL
I love that shirt haha
Also any idea what backup camera can be easily wired into that head unit? I think there was a wire or connector for one. I know the head unit has a camera function.
Sorry for the late reply, missed your comment. I'm actually looking into this right now as I want to add one to mine. I think any backup camera with a power wire to tap into the reverse lights would work. It looks like where to mount the camera is the hard part. Using a license plate mount camera would be easiest but it would be off center. I'm trying to find a way to mount mine behind/through the spare tire. I pretty sure the JLs do something like that
I learned a lot, and enjoy the video. Will be following your tube, THANKS
I still can’t figure out that 90s movie! 🤔
Me neither, guess it wasn't very popular
Beautiful jeep bro! Your tires are 31's or 33's? Any lift kit? Looks great!
Thanks! Tires are 33s and I believe it's a 2.5 inch lift
I'm still driving my 05 Ruby that I bought new in December of 04
Love it!
I had a 1997 TJ from new. I replaced the stock plastic center console with an all metal one with a nice vinyl armrest. Way more secure and very easy to install. I sold that TJ with only 77k on the odometer because it became a money sucking nightmare. Loved that jeep, though and still think about getting another one.