I turned 16 this past August and since then had been on a mission to grab a Jeep on a budget, early January grabbed a gunmetal pearl 1998 2.5l with 100k had to learn stick that was fun man Since then I’ve been watching your videos religiously so like dang please keep posting I’m trying to make this car last through college and clean up nicely as much as possible
Hey bro I’m 22 and you made a good decision getting a TJ Wrangler. If you take good care of it there’s no reason why you can’t get 300k miles out of it before needing to do serious work
My 2000 2.5 5spd never ceases to make my friends laugh when we're pigging up a grade in 1st gear 1,000 rpm. They aren't used to such an agricultural little motor. A nice dependable engine that meets the design requirements.
The 2.5 is actually a really good jeep for offroading as long as you keep it smaller tires. I run 31”s and It’s incredible how capable it can be with 4lo
@@commondenomination4564 the 4.0 has 180-200 hp and 222 torque and the 2.5l has 120 hp and 180 torque. The 4.0l depends on the year has more hp check carefully on that
Seems like you did a fair evaluation. Thanks! I have 4.0 Rubicon and love it for all the same reasons you mentioned you love yours. The 4.0 is amazing!! However, I will not be one to poop on someone for having a 2.5. The 2.5 TJ is still a great vehicle. I think they are all very cool, very dependable and very capable. I hope the rest of our 4.0 brothers and sisters can share the love and respect for the 2.5 members of our Jeep TJ family and not crap on people who have a four banger.
Zukes Rubicon The 2.5 was made in the 4.0s image! By the time they refined the 4.0, a lot of the design elements went into the newly designed 4 cylinder, especially cylinder head design.
Proper gearing and it gets along just fine. I’m moving up to 5.13 gears and 33s. Right now I’m running 235/75R15 with 4.10 gears. Mines a yj. No complaints 17-19 mpg.
Bought my 2002 TJ new 380,000km almost 20years old and still runs like new. Knock on wood not one engine issue in 18 years lots of off roading amazing lil Jeep
I have 97’ TJ 2.5 automatic and it is surprisingly great as my daily driver. I get on the freeway no issues get up to speed just fine. I’m just as surprised as others are LOL
2.5Ls out perform 4.0Ls often out on the trails. Losing almost 200 pounds in the front end and running in 4L they are unstoppable. Theres some good videos of them destroying hills and trails where rubicon’s and other 4.0s fail. But on the freeway your not drag racing but she will get from coast to coast and do it reliably all day. Wish I kept mime and never got the rubicon.
I had an 04 wrangler with the 2.4l it got around pretty good. Would easily go 60mph with 32s. Fun little jeep, wish I still had it. That 4 cylinder would fire right up the first crank every time.
For my first Jeep and my daily driver, I love the 2.5. I think it will suit me well for days on the beach and light trails. Will definitely want to upgrade to the 4l once it’s time tho!
2.5 is a great little engine. I've been looking for a basic bare bones 4cyl wrangler for a while and found a95 YJ. Took some TLC but she's running great now. The big key is, espeically if you stick with the factory 4.10s is to stick with close to factory tire size and put your money into traction aids and rock sliders instead. With stock sized tires like 235s or so it's quite peppy and has no issues chirping the tires on my YJ. To me the basic barebones 4cyl YJ or TJ harkens back to the old days of the CJ2/3/and early CJ5. I also had a XJ with the 2.5 Stripped down bare bone model didn't even have the actual gauges just idiot lights. I kept the 225 sized tires and it was a blast to drive around, plenty of power for it's weight. And like Kyle described super smooth. AMC did the job right when they built the 2.5. And the 4.0 might not have come to be without the 2.5 to blaze the path. The AX5 is a downside but even when you lose 5th gear you can drive it as a 4 speed and it works quite well lol.
I like more the 2.5l because the engine runs colder than the 4.0l. and in 4x4 the 2.5l trasforms in to a mini beast. I have a 92 yj with 37 inch tires and it fills great.
i have a 97 2.5 with a 4 inch lift front Ox locker rear Dana44 and warm bumpers it is one slow vehicle but offroad is a beast , love it but cant wait till LS swap since i have a donor ready
The 2.5l gets the job done, just don't put bigger tires on it and don't expect it to be fast. So far it's been reliable and I've done some modifications to it, and you are right autos are interestingly slow
Your power figures are what my owner's manual read for my 4.0 l high output Jeep TJ? A lot of guys keep saying they found the four bangers and such cheaper prices? I don't have that experience around where I live. I own a 97 TJ with a 4.0 and my life Jeep budy from highschool has a 98 with the 2.5. the biggest difference is when you put bigger tires on them the 2.5 becomes a complete dog and a 4.0 can pull a 33 without being regeared. 4.0 is easy to rebuild it's tough as nails it's just a kick-ass engine. The 2.5 liter gets it done it'll just never be as good. The one advantage I would point out is you can rev it way higher on the foor banger. My two cents just buy whatever you can get a good deal on. You get a good enough deal on a 4 banger turn around and sell it for a 6 cylinder. I've also got a Suzuki with a 1.6 running 38 and hydro steer and it goes a lot of places 4.0s can't go. It's not all about motor size.
Thanks for the review man! I've been looking around at buying my first Jeep and was having a hard time deciding between the 2.5/4.0 engines and auto/manual, but this definitely helped.
if you want a reliable fun jeep 2.5 is great.. the 4.0 better at harder driving but for extreem driving a modded stroker 4.0 is great or just get a v 8 for me its all about the milage i will drive my 2.5 untill it dies lol
It’s super funny how different they drive like you said Kyle... I drove my buddies 2.4L and it felt so smooth with that little humming engine and a soft clutch. Compared to my 4.0 ...it feels like we’re driving a heavy military vehicle. 😂
My first jeep is a 97 tj 4.0L with auto, now I also have an 01 tj 2.5L auto. You can tell the difference in power but I'm loving both......the 4.0 is down at the moment. So stuck with the 2.5 for now......(but still a jeep) ........ BTW loved the review video you done awesome.
I have a 2001 2.5L automatic on 32’s. It’s not terrible, but definitely need a lead foot. Still really fun. I never drive over 45 anyway lol but Love the vids man!
Just upgraded the exhaust manifold and made the necessary modifications to allow the cat to breathe *wink*. I also installed a 4.0L throttle body. It's no racecar but the gains are noticable and it can accelerate up a bridge now! It couldn't before.... It's a 98 manual 102k miles
I own the TJ 2.5L and is heavily upgraded with gears of 4.56 with 33 tires, and let me tell you is beating some JK's and surprised me a Rubicon. couldn't believe it but the 2.5 are a sleepy beast. I when to a desert where are sand mountains and climb it without a problem without using the 4x4. many 4.0L and JK's respect my little monster for how capable is
@@BerniesBastelBude with tires 31 the best you can get is the 4.27 is for daily use, but if you wants more power but poor fuel 4.56 or 4.88. It gives you more torque like for rocks
I have an 2001 TJ with a 2.5 auto trans and 31.5 bfg’s and it goes where I want it to. Lighter than the 4.0’s and gears are stock. I love all keeps and one day will get me a 4.0!
I have a Rio grande. I put a t3 turbo on it. Now hills i used to climb at 35-40 mph I run 65+ no problem. That little 2.5 is a great engine. As long as it keeps eating boost I'll keep the little 2.5.
Having a winter tj with the 2.5 ax5 and stock 27'' tires versus the summer 4.0 nv3550 on 35's geared to 4.56 the 2.5 is terribly doggy. Gas mileage is not a good factor either, some tanks when I have it in 4wd the entire time I will see 15 mpg, 16 normally and 17 in the summer. Highway it can average 20 but you can't go above 70mph or the 2.5 gets crap mpg. If anyone is getting a TJ with the intention of keeping the motor and going larger tires I would not ever recommend the 2.5
Own a 95. Wrangler yj with 190k miles. Bought it used. Previous owner beat the crap out of it but its still going only changed thermostat and put a aftermarket mishimoto radiator on it. Not the fastest but still beastmode
I got 35s and I don't think it's too bad unless big hill have to be in right gear if 5 speed, in 4 low on the trail still have not had any power issues, I bought mine as a trail truck but it's nice driving
I have a 2.5 it has no lift with 31s but I’m putting a 2.5 inch lift and I’m wondering if I should go with 32s or 33s I don’t want it to be terribly slow what do you guys recommend
Looking at buying a 97 TJ with 2.5. After your review, I think it's a great vehicle to teach my kids to drive stick. I can swap something out later, but I get the impression it's a good first vehicle as is
I had a 2.5 in a amc Jeep Comanche with a 4 speed. Loved it and the sweet gas mileage. I currently have a 4 banger in a 95 yj. Love driving it along with my 2017 JK.
My 90 yj ,2.5 tbi on 35s and 4:10 ,wheeled great..never stalled out or got stuck ..I just regeared to 4:88 so I can use 5th gear on highway..maybe pull my pickup trailer to the campsite.
I really wanted a 2.5 without AC. It is great fun to drive. I would not recommend it for people who expect their Jeep to drive like an everyday passenger car. It is very slow by modern standards, but it is much more similar to the original Jeeps. The biggest problem is getting parts for the engine. Mine is sixteen years old now, and I find that parts are getting really scarce.
@@maverickricardo4478 good knowledge brother. Thanks. Just bought a 97 TJ for my 16yo daughter. We are currently experiencing the joy of learning a manual transmission😅
I have aYJ with the 2.5l and five speed for sale. I just took it for a three hour drive this past weekend though highways, country roads, city streets and even some hills. It done great. Most of it was over 60 mph too. I love my YJ, but I’m selling it to save up for a TJ. One thing I did notice is the gearing from a YJ to your TJ. Mine is geared low. I’m in third gear before 20 and can cruise in the city at 30 mph in fifth gear. But I have had it’s over 70 ( just took some time to get there).
JL is a huge upgrade for me over s TJ, I would consider one in the future, where I can't get past the JK styling. That being said looking for an LJ as my next jeep.
A 1997 - 2002 Jeep SE with the AMC 2.5L four cylinder could really benefit with a supercharger if one wants 4.0L power levels. Good little 4-popper motor as I've always admired it as it's akin to the WW2 Jeep motor = *STOUT* pushrod gasoline engine with cast iron construction. Have a 2003 TJ 4.0L here and that 2.5L four is cool! May get one someday. Good video :)
I have the 2.5 with a manual transmission. It's really fun to drive. It doesn't feel slow; but then I wonder why I can barely keep up with a Hyundai Elantra or a Toyota Prius. The only time it 's an issue is going over a highway mountain pass, I have to downshift to 3rd just to maintain speed.
Got my eye on a 2.5 with the idea of stripping out the 4wd and making it 2wd only, pull front axles and differential, maybe take chain & gear out of transfer case..........light weight around town, simple runabout??
The 2.5 is a good little engine. Reliable and run forever. The SEs 4-bangers don’t get much love so you can find a nice TJ with the 2.5 or 2.4 for much cheaper. I bought an unmolested absolute cream puff 2005 with low miles for under 10k. Definitely if you want a bit more power the 2.4 is the way to go. 33” tires is a good size to put on these. Re-gear it properly with 4.56 or 4.88 and you’ll have plenty of power to get up to speed and climb hills. Yes the gas mileage is slightly better if you care about such things.
Owner of a '97 2.5l with the 3-speed auto here--total dumpster with this combo...slowest vehicle I've ever driven, but I can go anywhere...it just takes a little more time.
for everyone that wants a older jeep pleas first look under it and inspect the frame make surt the rust is not a problem and if it is undercoated make shure there is no rust coverd up the frame is the most importent thing . everything beyond the frame can be repaired or modified even the body please know what to look for .. several vidios out there on what to look for when looking for a jeep
Vincent Hoang I get about 17mpg mixed driving with my 98 4.0l 5-speed 3:73 gears with a misfire.... then again I usually exceed the rated MPGs in my vehicles. And no, I drive them with gusto at times.
I have a 2000 se Jeep with the 2.5 with 31 toyo AT’s you just have to watch your road you see a hill give it some gas get your speed up it gets up to 85 no problem the only time it struggles is when you fill it up with passengers, plus I get 20mpg if I keep it 55 to 60 mph
GUNS & KNIVES lucky you, with all the shit I have on mine from lift, tires, bumpers, winch, etc I probably top out at 65 with only me in it haha.(downhill)
I have 97 wrangler 2.5l 4 banger . 31 inch tires on the stock jeep rims put a flow master exhaust and k&n filter trying to make up for some of the hp loss but it does sound like a mad bumble bee buzzing down the road 0-60 why yess 😁🤣👍😍
Me too! - I am giving it some TLC before i get it on the road - my goal is Nov 1st - got it with 110k miles but brand new clutch, exhaust, alternator, no rust in the cabin or floorboards - just some rust around the wheel wells - I am in the middle of POR 15 the whole undercarriage to stop some of that rust - any tips I should know about? It's a 5-spd and is a work vehicle for me, I put the back seat up and put a lockable toolbox there - where is the spare tire jack and tire iron? I can't seem to find it? Does the '99 Se come with one? Thanks!
i love my 2.5 5 sp manual ,, after my exaust blew apart i seems to have beter preformence and pulling power a lot louder i drive the streets i pull logs around the property great for pulling rotten stumps up . 1 gear is so low i never have to put it in 4 low the only problems i have are electric the wiring is horrible and the rust i also have a 77 cj5 390 3 sp manual it needs a lot of love from me pushimg it way to hard lol
Thanks for the video. I had a 2.5 and loved it, but couldn't get up to speed when heading up to the mountain ie big hills. Was not sure if it was my vehicle or all of them lol. I am looking for one now and found a nice 2.5, so wanted to see what is up lol.
i was jeep hunting for awhile snd with some money saved up i got an stock everything except radio and tires with a 2.5 i was like “I LOVE IT” i then made a list of what i wanted done, top of the list: 1-engine swap immediatley 😂
Fred beat the everloving shit out of Tubesock when he first got it 😂 2.5’s might not be the pretty choice but if you aren’t afraid to send it it might surprise you lol
I've made some friggin full sends in my 97 on 33x12.50's with 4.56 gears and chromemolys. Interior is stripped so it's very light, that thing does things sometimes that continue to scare me. Lmao
I have a 01 4.0 like yours but mines not accelerating in third that great and I can hear my throw out bearing when I'm shifting is that normal and would a new clutch give me more acceleration..thanks
I don't think it really matter if you have a 2.5 or a 4.0, the 2.5 is more capable then like 90% car out there you should be happy with it power in a jeep doesn't matter all that matters is that you can go off road and do 90% of trails that the 4.0 can do
@@TaysomHugh stock axles and gears. 2.5" lift with 31" tires. Might try my luck with 33's later this year. I dont do much freeway driving so around town it should be fine
Kris Schobben, I have aYJ with the 2.5l and five speed for sale. I just took it for a three hour drive this past weekend though highways, country roads, city streets and even some hills. It done great. Most of it was over 60 mph too. I love my YJ, but I’m selling it to save up for a TJ.
Good video. In the market for a TJ, most likely a 4cyl. Any particular differences between the 2.5L and the 2.4L? No idea that standard 4cyl. came with 4.10 gears from the factory (googled). I like your sister’s setup with the dark JK wheels. Is there a significant speedo difference with those tires?
My 2.4l Powertech makes a ticking sound (loud) when it's cold out (mid 20s and low). The sound is lower when its warm (40 degrees or higher). So, my vote is for the 2.5 AMC.
To me the 2.5 is a straight up tractor engine but... thats not a bad thing! I'm on number 2 myself. Reliable engines. The AX5 can be suspect. Make sure to change the fluid. I see Redline MT90 recommended A LOT.
I'm picking up a 2000 Wrangler with 95k on it on Sunday. It's getting from the original owner. A work mates mother. She's never off-road it, beat it up or modified it. It's bone stock. 2.5 liter. I'm looking forward to having a clean TJ. I have a 2017 JKU and a YJ. So this will add to the family :)
I have. 2.5l, 5spd, 33s and 4.88. Ok on the flats and it’s a daily driver. But the rotational mass of the 33x12.5 on 8in wide wheels does use up the power on even small grades. If u plan on driving 60+ miles to your wheeling spot and u have hills, get the 4.0l. With that said, I still love mine. The 2.5l shines on stock tires when it comes to speed and climbing long hills. Change, it and u will see the difference. I experienced it all, went from stock, to 31s on 4.10s, then 33s on 4.88s.
I got a 92 YJ with a 4 cylinder and I can't stand it I'm definitely going to upgrade to a new engine once I have the money it's so under powered even when I had smaller tires on it. But I do like driving a stick 😁
i have a 97 tj with the 2.5 police auction find. got that baby for 2k but lots of goodies. rear Dana 44 front Ox lockers 4 inch lift on 33's . it is slow up hills but a beast when offroad. i would really like to drop my yukon 5.3 in it but not sure how California Laws will affect my emission.
Im not sure why your all downing a 2.5 my buddies dad has had a 90 yj for 8 years he beat the BALLS!! OFF IT!! SOO BAD that hes been threw three engines 🤣 BUT!! IT STILL TOOK THAT BEATING! as for the transmission! Hes had the same tranny with all three engines and the "only time" the clutch didn't wanna work id when it was under water , water up to the driver seats so in conclusion these 2.5s can be bad ass
Awesome vid! Was wondering if I could get your opinion. I have a shot at a 05 TJ 2.4L SE. In excellent shape, bad ass color (pewter-grayish greenish) light surface rust, 31 inch MTs, 119k miles. Whoever had it took care of it. Aiming to use it to bomb around town by the beach. Light camping/4x4ing, nothing serious at all. I mainly work from home so Im rarely on the freeway. I had a 95 YJ 4 banger that I loved. Kept it stock, never put big tires on it (love the stock, square light look) And it had pep. It was fast and easy to zip around anywhere. Granted it was a thin sheet metal box on wheels. I ask because I test drove the 05 TJ and I could feel the engine “working”. The wife has a turbo Forester for the freeway and family trips. I had a 4Runner, so I appreciate the 6cylinder power. I drive a Prius now, and out in Cali, I love the gas mileage. Got a cafe racer to feed the speed need. I also have options for two 4L sport PJs. A 97-170K miles and a 99-150K miles, red and blue respectively, stock tires on both 4Ls. All in the 9k price range. Love all your vids and I see you know your 5h!T. Sorry for the novel, but just wondering what you’d advise. Mahalos brother. More vids please.
I am looking to buy a 1997 wrangler. The one I am looking at is a 2.5l. It only has about 165,000 miles. I went and looked at it and it is a possibility. I am going to be re-doing the whole thing inside and out. Once it is complete it should be one heck of a runner. I will be putting 4.88 in the rear so I can get some more power out of it. This one should last me a while. Anything I should necessarily looking out for? Thanks..
Need some help! What is the drivetrain difference bw the 4 and 6?? are the transfer cases and axles the same? Thanks! Haven't been able to find an answer specifically about the transfer case
@@KyleSVT Exactly what I was looking for! Thank you very much. Does the same transfer case apply to the YJ as well?.. as far as the 4 and 6 standard tcase
Hey Kyle. I just bought a 2001 Tj with a 2.5l automatic. I'm thinking about adding a 4" lift with much larger tires. The automatic is already extremely slow. Do you think the lift and tires would bog it down even more?
I turned 16 this past August and since then had been on a mission to grab a Jeep on a budget, early January grabbed a gunmetal pearl 1998 2.5l with 100k
had to learn stick that was fun man
Since then I’ve been watching your videos religiously so like dang please keep posting I’m trying to make this car last through college and clean up nicely as much as possible
Last through college? It should last up to about 250k miles or more with regular and preventative maintenance.
your car will last a long time trust me these old jeeps won't die
Hey bro I’m 22 and you made a good decision getting a TJ Wrangler. If you take good care of it there’s no reason why you can’t get 300k miles out of it before needing to do serious work
My 2000 2.5 5spd never ceases to make my friends laugh when we're pigging up a grade in 1st gear 1,000 rpm. They aren't used to such an agricultural little motor. A nice dependable engine that meets the design requirements.
The 2.5 is actually a really good jeep for offroading as long as you keep it smaller tires. I run 31”s and It’s incredible how capable it can be with 4lo
all the 2.5 owners in the comment section hyped to get some love haha
The 2001 4.0 ran 152hp and the 2.5 had 116 hp. There is a big difference but HP wise, you're not in any power game with either engine.
@@commondenomination4564 but 4 litre has more off road capabilities
Love my 2.5
@@commondenomination4564 the 4.0 has 180-200 hp and 222 torque and the 2.5l has 120 hp and 180 torque. The 4.0l depends on the year has more hp check carefully on that
vizio40
Original willys had a 2.2L 4cyl with 60 torque and would go friggin anywhere.
It’s not the size it’s how you use it 😜
Seems like you did a fair evaluation. Thanks! I have 4.0 Rubicon and love it for all the same reasons you mentioned you love yours. The 4.0 is amazing!! However, I will not be one to poop on someone for having a 2.5. The 2.5 TJ is still a great vehicle. I think they are all very cool, very dependable and very capable. I hope the rest of our 4.0 brothers and sisters can share the love and respect for the 2.5 members of our Jeep TJ family and not crap on people who have a four banger.
10/10 Well said
"our Jeep TJ family". You trying to cast out us YJ owners, or what?
Zukes Rubicon The 2.5 was made in the 4.0s image! By the time they refined the 4.0, a lot of the design elements went into the newly designed 4 cylinder, especially cylinder head design.
I actually love the sound of this 4 cylinder. Has the tone and timbre that a Jeep should have. Love it.
uk7769 Sounded like my Jeep when I was in the Army in ‘67 - ‘70!
This was my first car at 16. Now 17 years later I’m in a 5 cylinder Jetta…. I’ll get up to a 6 cylinder something one day 😂
Proud owner of a 2.5L ✌️😁👍
Trick to those is 4.88 gears if you want those big tires... trust me lol
Literally just bought mine for a thousand bucks been with bumpers and wench with 5 speed
Proper gearing and it gets along just fine. I’m moving up to 5.13 gears and 33s. Right now I’m running 235/75R15 with 4.10 gears. Mines a yj. No complaints 17-19 mpg.
Bought my 2002 TJ new 380,000km almost 20years old and still runs like new. Knock on wood not one engine issue in 18 years lots of off roading amazing lil Jeep
I have 97’ TJ 2.5 automatic and it is surprisingly great as my daily driver. I get on the freeway no issues get up to speed just fine. I’m just as surprised as others are LOL
2.5Ls out perform 4.0Ls often out on the trails. Losing almost 200 pounds in the front end and running in 4L they are unstoppable. Theres some good videos of them destroying hills and trails where rubicon’s and other 4.0s fail. But on the freeway your not drag racing but she will get from coast to coast and do it reliably all day. Wish I kept mime and never got the rubicon.
Interesting
I had an 04 wrangler with the 2.4l it got around pretty good. Would easily go 60mph with 32s. Fun little jeep, wish I still had it. That 4 cylinder would fire right up the first crank every time.
For my first Jeep and my daily driver, I love the 2.5. I think it will suit me well for days on the beach and light trails. Will definitely want to upgrade to the 4l once it’s time tho!
2.5 gets the job done in 4L, locked in with 4.88’s
94 2.5 here with lt 215/85/15 swampers an it will spin 2nd gear on pavement
2.5 is a great little engine. I've been looking for a basic bare bones 4cyl wrangler for a while and found a95 YJ. Took some TLC but she's running great now. The big key is, espeically if you stick with the factory 4.10s is to stick with close to factory tire size and put your money into traction aids and rock sliders instead. With stock sized tires like 235s or so it's quite peppy and has no issues chirping the tires on my YJ. To me the basic barebones 4cyl YJ or TJ harkens back to the old days of the CJ2/3/and early CJ5.
I also had a XJ with the 2.5 Stripped down bare bone model didn't even have the actual gauges just idiot lights. I kept the 225 sized tires and it was a blast to drive around, plenty of power for it's weight. And like Kyle described super smooth. AMC did the job right when they built the 2.5. And the 4.0 might not have come to be without the 2.5 to blaze the path.
The AX5 is a downside but even when you lose 5th gear you can drive it as a 4 speed and it works quite well lol.
I prefer 4.0-L but I love every Jeep TJ.
I like more the 2.5l because the engine runs colder than the 4.0l. and in 4x4 the 2.5l trasforms in to a mini beast. I have a 92 yj with 37 inch tires and it fills great.
With what gears and other mods because they bog in low 4wd on 31s.
94 2.5 here lt 215/85/15 swampers it will spin them
On pavement shifting to 2nd
i have a 97 2.5 with a 4 inch lift front Ox locker rear Dana44 and warm bumpers it is one slow vehicle but offroad is a beast , love it but cant wait till LS swap since i have a donor ready
The 2.5l gets the job done, just don't put bigger tires on it and don't expect it to be fast. So far it's been reliable and I've done some modifications to it, and you are right autos are interestingly slow
I wouldn’t expect any Jeep to be fast…I didn’t choose a wrangler bc I wanted a race car.
2.5L 5 Speed owner 🔥😭❤️
Your power figures are what my owner's manual read for my 4.0 l high output Jeep TJ? A lot of guys keep saying they found the four bangers and such cheaper prices? I don't have that experience around where I live. I own a 97 TJ with a 4.0 and my life Jeep budy from highschool has a 98 with the 2.5. the biggest difference is when you put bigger tires on them the 2.5 becomes a complete dog and a 4.0 can pull a 33 without being regeared. 4.0 is easy to rebuild it's tough as nails it's just a kick-ass engine. The 2.5 liter gets it done it'll just never be as good. The one advantage I would point out is you can rev it way higher on the foor banger. My two cents just buy whatever you can get a good deal on. You get a good enough deal on a 4 banger turn around and sell it for a 6 cylinder. I've also got a Suzuki with a 1.6 running 38 and hydro steer and it goes a lot of places 4.0s can't go. It's not all about motor size.
Thanks for the review man! I've been looking around at buying my first Jeep and was having a hard time deciding between the 2.5/4.0 engines and auto/manual, but this definitely helped.
Thanks for watching!
im litteraly in your same boat atm haha
2.4L 4 cyl was also an option. A step up over the 2.5. "well matter of opinion I suppose"
if you want a reliable fun jeep 2.5 is great.. the 4.0 better at harder driving but for extreem driving a modded stroker 4.0 is great or just get a v 8 for me its all about the milage i will drive my 2.5 untill it dies lol
@@kenmiller5954what's the mpg in the 2.5?
It’s super funny how different they drive like you said Kyle... I drove my buddies 2.4L and it felt so smooth with that little humming engine and a soft clutch. Compared to my 4.0 ...it feels like we’re driving a heavy military vehicle. 😂
2.4 is Japanese ;)
Adrián Orbán AX5 and AX15 included I guess!
Love my 4.0L , driving up the hills is the best
My first jeep is a 97 tj 4.0L with auto, now I also have an 01 tj 2.5L auto. You can tell the difference in power but I'm loving both......the 4.0 is down at the moment. So stuck with the 2.5 for now......(but still a jeep) ........ BTW loved the review video you done awesome.
I have a 2001 2.5L automatic on 32’s. It’s not terrible, but definitely need a lead foot. Still really fun. I never drive over 45 anyway lol but Love the vids man!
Thanks bro!
I have a 97 2.5L automatic on 32's as well
What’s the max speed though?
I have a 02 jeep wrangler se I put a supercharger on it about 2 years ago it runs very well and very dependable.
Very cool! I bet it sounds awesome
Do you have to make more trips to the gas station with the supercharger in the 02 jeep, or is it the same???
Just upgraded the exhaust manifold and made the necessary modifications to allow the cat to breathe *wink*. I also installed a 4.0L throttle body. It's no racecar but the gains are noticable and it can accelerate up a bridge now! It couldn't before.... It's a 98 manual 102k miles
I own the TJ 2.5L and is heavily upgraded with gears of 4.56 with 33 tires, and let me tell you is beating some JK's and surprised me a Rubicon. couldn't believe it but the 2.5 are a sleepy beast. I when to a desert where are sand mountains and climb it without a problem without using the 4x4. many 4.0L and JK's respect my little monster for how capable is
what gear-ratio would you recommend for 31" on a 2.5L ?
Can you put a link to where you bought the gears
@@BerniesBastelBude You can get away with 4.10s no problem 4.56s would be perfect
@@BerniesBastelBude with tires 31 the best you can get is the 4.27 is for daily use, but if you wants more power but poor fuel 4.56 or 4.88. It gives you more torque like for rocks
@@vizio40 thx! my local dealer recommended 4.88 for daily use. confusingly, the more people you ask the more opinions you get...
I have an 2001 TJ with a 2.5 auto trans and 31.5 bfg’s and it goes where I want it to. Lighter than the 4.0’s and gears are stock. I love all keeps and one day will get me a 4.0!
I have a Rio grande. I put a t3 turbo on it. Now hills i used to climb at 35-40 mph I run 65+ no problem. That little 2.5 is a great engine. As long as it keeps eating boost I'll keep the little 2.5.
Turbo on a 2.5 would be sick!
Having a winter tj with the 2.5 ax5 and stock 27'' tires versus the summer 4.0 nv3550 on 35's geared to 4.56 the 2.5 is terribly doggy. Gas mileage is not a good factor either, some tanks when I have it in 4wd the entire time I will see 15 mpg, 16 normally and 17 in the summer. Highway it can average 20 but you can't go above 70mph or the 2.5 gets crap mpg. If anyone is getting a TJ with the intention of keeping the motor and going larger tires I would not ever recommend the 2.5
Own a 95. Wrangler yj with 190k miles. Bought it used. Previous owner beat the crap out of it but its still going only changed thermostat and put a aftermarket mishimoto radiator on it. Not the fastest but still beastmode
First wohoo! btw I have the 2.5 on mine with 33's man it's slow!
jky21 I seen guys with the 2.5 and 35S can you imagine that?
I drive a 2.5 with 31s and cruze down the interstate great. Definitely wouldn't go bigger 😂
Yeah but it’s reliable af and do what it’s told
I got 35s and I don't think it's too bad unless big hill have to be in right gear if 5 speed, in 4 low on the trail still have not had any power issues, I bought mine as a trail truck but it's nice driving
I have a 2.5 it has no lift with 31s but I’m putting a 2.5 inch lift and I’m wondering if I should go with 32s or 33s I don’t want it to be terribly slow what do you guys recommend
Love my 95 YJ put $2500 additional after $4K purchase and Lovin'it!
Looking at buying a 97 TJ with 2.5. After your review, I think it's a great vehicle to teach my kids to drive stick. I can swap something out later, but I get the impression it's a good first vehicle as is
I’m looking at a 99’ 2.5 TJ with 182k miles and 5spd, would you still buy it again?
@@dugefrsh5154 I didn't buy that one. Ended up with a 94 YJ with 4.0 and 5spd for about half the price. Been a fun ride.
@@richardmiller1256 sweeeeet congrats
Got my 2.5l when I was 15, bought it in Virginia and I live in MI. Cars 20 years old and she’s kickin ass. highways suck tho
I had a 2.5 in a amc Jeep Comanche with a 4 speed. Loved it and the sweet gas mileage. I currently have a 4 banger in a 95 yj. Love driving it along with my 2017 JK.
Nice! I'm looking to buy a comanche actually
My 90 yj ,2.5 tbi on 35s and 4:10 ,wheeled great..never stalled out or got stuck ..I just regeared to 4:88 so I can use 5th gear on highway..maybe pull my pickup trailer to the campsite.
I really wanted a 2.5 without AC. It is great fun to drive. I would not recommend it for people who expect their Jeep to drive like an everyday passenger car. It is very slow by modern standards, but it is much more similar to the original Jeeps. The biggest problem is getting parts for the engine. Mine is sixteen years old now, and I find that parts are getting really scarce.
A lot of dakotas with that motor in junk yards
@@maverickricardo4478 good knowledge brother. Thanks. Just bought a 97 TJ for my 16yo daughter. We are currently experiencing the joy of learning a manual transmission😅
I have aYJ with the 2.5l and five speed for sale. I just took it for a three hour drive this past weekend though highways, country roads, city streets and even some hills. It done great. Most of it was over 60 mph too. I love my YJ, but I’m selling it to save up for a TJ.
One thing I did notice is the gearing from a YJ to your TJ. Mine is geared low. I’m in third gear before 20 and can cruise in the city at 30 mph in fifth gear. But I have had it’s over 70 ( just took some time to get there).
I have a new JL that I love but still have Jeep envy of the TJ. Enjoyed the video.👍👍
Thanks Dave!
JL is a huge upgrade for me over s TJ, I would consider one in the future, where I can't get past the JK styling. That being said looking for an LJ as my next jeep.
A 1997 - 2002 Jeep SE with the AMC 2.5L four cylinder could really benefit with a supercharger if one wants 4.0L power levels. Good little 4-popper motor as I've always admired it as it's akin to the WW2 Jeep motor = *STOUT* pushrod gasoline engine with cast iron construction. Have a 2003 TJ 4.0L here and that 2.5L four is cool! May get one someday. Good video :)
Thank you!
I’m getting a 98 2.5l 5sp with 34” super stampers on Saturday. Hope I like it because I’ve never owned a Wrangler before. Love Jeeps though
The original GPW and MB during WWII has a 4cyl "Go Devil " engine. The Wrangler with a 2.5 is much closer to the original Jeep than inline 6s.
Great comparison! My 2.4L is a lot of fun to drive, but I definitely look forward to purchasing a 4.0 when I sell this bad boy.
Thank you!
Thank you covering this topic. I'm still unsure about the 4cl but this does help.
I would still go 4.0L if you have the money
I got a 2.5 manual and I want a 4.0.
Very nice jeep . I have the 2.5 love mine
Thanks Sandra!
The 2.5L sounds really good!
I have the 2.5 with a manual transmission. It's really fun to drive. It doesn't feel slow; but then I wonder why I can barely keep up with a Hyundai Elantra or a Toyota Prius. The only time it 's an issue is going over a highway mountain pass, I have to downshift to 3rd just to maintain speed.
How does it do off roading?
I need to buy one 2.5 and i need to know how it is with consumption ?
Exacly, the 2.5 more soft drive, and the 4.0 like tractor drive. nice video.
Thanks!
Got my eye on a 2.5 with the idea of stripping out the 4wd and making it 2wd only, pull front axles and differential, maybe take chain & gear out of transfer case..........light weight around town, simple runabout??
The 2.5 is lightweight to begin with
The 2.5 is a good little engine. Reliable and run forever. The SEs 4-bangers don’t get much love so you can find a nice TJ with the 2.5 or 2.4 for much cheaper. I bought an unmolested absolute cream puff 2005 with low miles for under 10k. Definitely if you want a bit more power the 2.4 is the way to go. 33” tires is a good size to put on these. Re-gear it properly with 4.56 or 4.88 and you’ll have plenty of power to get up to speed and climb hills. Yes the gas mileage is slightly better if you care about such things.
Yanked my four banger out and put in a 350 love it
@@MachineIf it does not miss a gas station 😂
Owner of a '97 2.5l with the 3-speed auto here--total dumpster with this combo...slowest vehicle I've ever driven, but I can go anywhere...it just takes a little more time.
LITTLE bit of snow.. #YeeHaw!
Priceless
I have that exact jeep and i love it.
Much cheaper platform if you are gonna mod it out anyway. Drop a V8 in it perhaps?
for everyone that wants a older jeep pleas first look under it and inspect the frame make surt the rust is not a problem and if it is undercoated make shure there is no rust coverd up the frame is the most importent thing . everything beyond the frame can be repaired or modified even the body please know what to look for .. several vidios out there on what to look for when looking for a jeep
I've got a 97 with the 2.5 and plan to engine swap it. While it's in there I've switched to 4 hole injectors and put the 4.0 throttle body on it!
Very cool!
i get a solid 14.5 mpg around the city with my 2.5L but i do have a heavy right foot
Vincent Hoang I get about 17mpg mixed driving with my 98 4.0l 5-speed 3:73 gears with a misfire.... then again I usually exceed the rated MPGs in my vehicles. And no, I drive them with gusto at times.
CamaroAmx i drive a lot in stop and go traffic but i do have the 5-speed
Vincent Hoang I stick to mostly backroads when ever I can.
I have a 2000 se Jeep with the 2.5 with 31 toyo AT’s you just have to watch your road you see a hill give it some gas get your speed up it gets up to 85 no problem the only time it struggles is when you fill it up with passengers, plus I get 20mpg if I keep it 55 to 60 mph
GUNS & KNIVES lucky you, with all the shit I have on mine from lift, tires, bumpers, winch, etc I probably top out at 65 with only me in it haha.(downhill)
Mine won’t even go 85 if I drive it off a cliff
Alec Palacio 😂
I have 97 wrangler 2.5l 4 banger . 31 inch tires on the stock jeep rims put a flow master exhaust and k&n filter trying to make up for some of the hp loss but it does sound like a mad bumble bee buzzing down the road 0-60 why yess 😁🤣👍😍
I have a jeep wrangler tj 1999 2.5
Me too! - I am giving it some TLC before i get it on the road - my goal is Nov 1st - got it with 110k miles but brand new clutch, exhaust, alternator, no rust in the cabin or floorboards - just some rust around the wheel wells - I am in the middle of POR 15 the whole undercarriage to stop some of that rust - any tips I should know about? It's a 5-spd and is a work vehicle for me, I put the back seat up and put a lockable toolbox there - where is the spare tire jack and tire iron? I can't seem to find it? Does the '99 Se come with one? Thanks!
I have the same jeep. Love every minute I’m in it playing around.
i love my 2.5 5 sp manual ,, after my exaust blew apart i seems to have beter preformence and pulling power a lot louder i drive the streets i pull logs around the property great for pulling rotten stumps up . 1 gear is so low i never have to put it in 4 low the only problems i have are electric the wiring is horrible and the rust i also have a 77 cj5 390 3 sp manual it needs a lot of love from me pushimg it way to hard lol
Thanks for the video. I had a 2.5 and loved it, but couldn't get up to speed when heading up to the mountain ie big hills. Was not sure if it was my vehicle or all of them lol. I am looking for one now and found a nice 2.5, so wanted to see what is up lol.
Love the videos bud. My 4 banger putts, it's slow but it putts.
Thanks Austin!
great video very explanatory I liked it!
thank you!
i was jeep hunting for awhile snd with some money saved up i got an stock everything except radio and tires with a 2.5 i was like “I LOVE IT” i then made a list of what i wanted done, top of the list: 1-engine swap immediatley 😂
Fred beat the everloving shit out of Tubesock when he first got it 😂 2.5’s might not be the pretty choice but if you aren’t afraid to send it it might surprise you lol
lol he did a full send
I've made some friggin full sends in my 97 on 33x12.50's with 4.56 gears and chromemolys. Interior is stripped so it's very light, that thing does things sometimes that continue to scare me. Lmao
I have a 01 4.0 like yours but mines not accelerating in third that great and I can hear my throw out bearing when I'm shifting is that normal and would a new clutch give me more acceleration..thanks
Maybe your clutch is slipping
@@KyleSVT my neighbor has a 4.0 YJ. He was having clutch issues so he replaced the main and slave cylinder and if fixed it.
Great video! Any mileage updates on how far these 4cy 2.5L can last? Thanks
I have 233000 miles on my 99 with the original clutch even. No major repairs
I drove a rx7 fc na so i know about slow but very capable in the turns/drifting .its all about what you want the car for.
Awesome vid thanks man!!
Thanks Turner!
I don't think it really matter if you have a 2.5 or a 4.0, the 2.5 is more capable then like 90% car out there you should be happy with it power in a jeep doesn't matter all that matters is that you can go off road and do 90% of trails that the 4.0 can do
my 97 2.5L still running strong but yeah you must have the manual trans with that motor to be remotely decent to drive.
What set up are you running on tires, gears, axels?
@@TaysomHugh stock axles and gears. 2.5" lift with 31" tires. Might try my luck with 33's later this year. I dont do much freeway driving so around town it should be fine
Good video!
I'm looking for a YJ ... as a second (fun) car ... you conviced me about the 2.5 ... I'm not going much off road.
Kris Schobben, I have aYJ with the 2.5l and five speed for sale. I just took it for a three hour drive this past weekend though highways, country roads, city streets and even some hills. It done great. Most of it was over 60 mph too. I love my YJ, but I’m selling it to save up for a TJ.
Thank you!
Good video. In the market for a TJ, most likely a 4cyl. Any particular differences between the 2.5L and the 2.4L?
No idea that standard 4cyl. came with 4.10 gears from the factory (googled). I like your sister’s setup with the dark JK wheels. Is there a significant speedo difference with those tires?
Thanks bro! Yea there is but you can just get a new spedo gear
The 2.4L is Chrysler and the 2.5L is AMC. I'd stick with the proven AMC motor if you can
2.5 is proven reliable, 2.4 is more powerful but they seem to have more issues.
@@andrewcarr899 the 2.4 is good for reliability, but has absolutely no aftermarket so...
My 2.4l Powertech makes a ticking sound (loud) when it's cold out (mid 20s and low). The sound is lower when its warm (40 degrees or higher). So, my vote is for the 2.5 AMC.
Cool video man. Quick question, how’s the gas mileage compared to the 4 liter? Is it a big difference or not at all?
Thanks bro! It's a little but better but not by much becuase with the 2.5 your full throttle or close it it a lot more lol
To me the 2.5 is a straight up tractor engine but... thats not a bad thing! I'm on number 2 myself. Reliable engines. The AX5 can be suspect. Make sure to change the fluid. I see Redline MT90 recommended A LOT.
I'm picking up a 2000 Wrangler with 95k on it on Sunday. It's getting from the original owner. A work mates mother. She's never off-road it, beat it up or modified it. It's bone stock. 2.5 liter.
I'm looking forward to having a clean TJ. I have a 2017 JKU and a YJ. So this will add to the family :)
Very cool!
I have. 2.5l, 5spd, 33s and 4.88. Ok on the flats and it’s a daily driver. But the rotational mass of the 33x12.5 on 8in wide wheels does use up the power on even small grades. If u plan on driving 60+ miles to your wheeling spot and u have hills, get the 4.0l. With that said, I still love mine.
The 2.5l shines on stock tires when it comes to speed and climbing long hills. Change, it and u will see the difference. I experienced it all, went from stock, to 31s on 4.10s, then 33s on 4.88s.
Well said
I also have the 2.5L with 31s. Would you recommend to change to 4.10 (or 4.11 or 4.22) ?
Bernie Midgard you should already have 4.10s. If you want to bring it back to stock performance, then go to 4.56s.
I want to put this engine/gearbox in my 67 cj5...😜
I got a 92 YJ with a 4 cylinder and I can't stand it I'm definitely going to upgrade to a new engine once I have the money it's so under powered even when I had smaller tires on it. But I do like driving a stick 😁
Great video, here in the UK I’m debating between a YJ or a TJ with the 2.5 that or I find a nice ZJ or XJ with the VM motor.
Thank you!
I have 2.5 VM XJ. I like it a lot and it runs on vegetable or wasted motor oil. 😁
2.5 is goated
i have a 97 tj with the 2.5 police auction find. got that baby for 2k but lots of goodies. rear Dana 44 front Ox lockers 4 inch lift on 33's . it is slow up hills but a beast when offroad. i would really like to drop my yukon 5.3 in it but not sure how California Laws will affect my emission.
Mine has a miss right as soon as I stab it at first then it clears up any suggestions
Im not sure why your all downing a 2.5 my buddies dad has had a 90 yj for 8 years he beat the BALLS!! OFF IT!! SOO BAD that hes been threw three engines 🤣 BUT!! IT STILL TOOK THAT BEATING! as for the transmission! Hes had the same tranny with all three engines and the "only time" the clutch didn't wanna work id when it was under water , water up to the driver seats so in conclusion these 2.5s can be bad ass
I have a 1991 yj with a 2.5. I think it's the same engine? I have almost 300000 miles on it and drive it regularly.
Very cool!
2.5l is light. 4.0 solid engine
488 gears I’m not foot to the floor at all with 33’s with my 99TJ 2.5
Awesome vid! Was wondering if I could get your opinion. I have a shot at a 05 TJ 2.4L SE. In excellent shape, bad ass color (pewter-grayish greenish) light surface rust, 31 inch MTs, 119k miles. Whoever had it took care of it. Aiming to use it to bomb around town by the beach. Light camping/4x4ing, nothing serious at all. I mainly work from home so Im rarely on the freeway. I had a 95 YJ 4 banger that I loved. Kept it stock, never put big tires on it (love the stock, square light look) And it had pep. It was fast and easy to zip around anywhere. Granted it was a thin sheet metal box on wheels. I ask because I test drove the 05 TJ and I could feel the engine “working”. The wife has a turbo Forester for the freeway and family trips. I had a 4Runner, so I appreciate the 6cylinder power. I drive a Prius now, and out in Cali, I love the gas mileage. Got a cafe racer to feed the speed need. I also have options for two 4L sport PJs. A 97-170K miles and a 99-150K miles, red and blue respectively, stock tires on both 4Ls. All in the 9k price range. Love all your vids and I see you know your 5h!T. Sorry for the novel, but just wondering what you’d advise.
Mahalos brother.
More vids please.
Thanks man! I would stay away from the 2.4L and go 2.5L if you're gonna go the 4 cylinder route. I always recommend people go with the 4.0L tho
Thanks so much. The two 4.0s I test drove and have some serious rust. The 05 2.4L just sold. What are your opinions on YJs?@@KyleSVT
@dadcooksstuff YJs are very cool would not be apposed to owning one.
I am looking to buy a 1997 wrangler. The one I am looking at is a 2.5l. It only has about 165,000 miles. I went and looked at it and it is a possibility. I am going to be re-doing the whole thing inside and out. Once it is complete it should be one heck of a runner. I will be putting 4.88 in the rear so I can get some more power out of it. This one should last me a while. Anything I should necessarily looking out for? Thanks..
ruclips.net/video/VMPlX8MbfZI/видео.html
Need some help!
What is the drivetrain difference bw the 4 and 6?? are the transfer cases and axles the same? Thanks! Haven't been able to find an answer specifically about the transfer case
ruclips.net/video/8C2XET0v9Qg/видео.html
@@KyleSVT Exactly what I was looking for! Thank you very much. Does the same transfer case apply to the YJ as well?.. as far as the 4 and 6 standard tcase
@@thrRnz9496 Np! That I do not know
I'm getting one tomorrow, but I hope that seat slides back more : /
I have a 97 5 speed 4cyl
Hey Kyle. I just bought a 2001 Tj with a 2.5l automatic. I'm thinking about adding a 4" lift with much larger tires. The automatic is already extremely slow. Do you think the lift and tires would bog it down even more?
Hey man! Congrats on the new jeep. Yea the tires will bog it down for sure. Might want to consider regearing for the bugger tires
My 2.5 yj gets 25 mpg. My 4.0 rubicon gets 18. Both are manual shift. Neither rarely go over 55 mph. Jeeps arent meant for speed.