Jeep TJ or YJ, That is the question.....

Roverman · #1 08-05-2004, 11:29 AM

Ok, i need some advice. I am looking at buying a wrangler and outfitting it for wheeling. I have owned a few YJ's and love them because of the ease of repair. I know if i go to a TJ, i will get the coils. But frankly, the fear of plugging the TJ in to a computer to diagnose something scares me. I don't think it will be as easy, or as cheap to fix as a YJ.

I would like to hear your thoughts on this.

Also, i know somebody that is selling a 2000 Cherokee with a 2.5 lift. if anyone is interested, email me and i will give him your email.

Rogue7 · #2 08-05-2004, 02:54 PM

I run a 1980 CJ-7. Its easy to repair, simple to under stand and just about any part needed can be found at the local auto parts store. It does very well on the trail.

They YJ is a good jeep if you build it right.

The TJ is great right off the show room floor.

Your decision should be based on the intended use of the jeep. If you plan to do Carnage by a cheep 87 YJ then build it. If you want to do less extreme trails like Blanca or Holy Cross, buy a TJ, a lift, bigger tires a rear locker and go.

Any jeep can leave you stranded. Hopfully you wheel with freinds.

Rogue7

OffroadJourneys · #3 08-05-2004, 10:20 PM

Just my opinion, but I had a built 87 YJ, and now have a 97 TJ. Granted, EFI was not available in the 87 YJ and I'm glad I have it now. But hands down, I would go with the TJ. The suspensions are easier to set up and adjust, and you definitely get more travel and traction in spots that need it.

int77 · #4 08-05-2004, 10:32 PM

Id get a 90?s YJ get the spring over kit for it, I think they even make a bolt on one. Loose the sway bars and guide bars, run some 35 inch tires and call it done. That would make for a good rig in my opinion.

damo252 · #5 08-09-2004, 02:38 PM

If price is an issue I would go YJ with a spring over, this will flex pretty well, as this is the suspension I have on my Samurai. If money is not a major concern, a Tj is a more capable vehicle out of the box, and offers better adjustability with the suspension.

Roverman · #6 08-09-2004, 04:03 PM

Thanks for your opinions. I think i have decided to go to a TJ.

int77 · #7 08-10-2004, 09:40 PM

new or used?
any plans for it?

FlexyTJ · #8 09-09-2004, 01:40 PM

TJ is the only way to go (Im a bit biased

) But really, the coil spring performance (in either stock or modded form) is far superior in most offroad performance aspects. The newer TJ's are very reliable.. and the newer ones include onboard diagnostics that dont even require a scanner to see the full codes... maintainace and tune ups are a cinch with the coil pack ignition...

hope you enjoy your new TJ... any mod plans?