Looking at buying a TJ What to look for?

[SuziCrazy]

Hey guys/gals

I'm looking to buy a TJ (for my wife ) , what are the soft spot/things to look for? I'm only looking at 6cyl 4L for now.

The near future plans:
Mild lift to clear 33's maybe gearing, bumbers blah blah you know the "jeep thing"

All input is appreciated

 

[2Greys]

Since you probably aren't going all out; Rubicon. You get everything with it, 4.10 gearing (good for 33's), lockers, better transfer Case.
Alternatively the LJ is another option. If you are only going to 33's and never higher then you could go with a sport and get it regeared.
Don't even think about 4 cyl unless you are buying a bad one for the axles to swap into another.

 

[chunkytrunks]

Check the floors, expecially behind the drivers and passenger seat where the cage bolts to the floor. They like to rot out there. Frames are usually good. If you can try and find a 2000 or newer. In 2000 they went to the better manual tranny and they also went to coil pack ignition and a few other things. Every once in a while you can find a 2000 sport 4.0L for $5000-$6000.

 

[SuziCrazy]

Thanks guys, going to look at a few more tonight. Looks like the fenders tend to rust at the seams and at the tail gate hinge area... If you thingk of anything else to look for or avoid please post as I'm buying in the next couple days

 

[2Greys]

Think of the fenders rusting as an excuse to go flat fenders

 

[Mitko]

Well, it's a jeep - you cant expect much...
Check for the normal stuff - unusual noices, vibrations, leaks.... check the steering box for leaks.