[MEMTJ]

Hello All,

I am new to the Jeep Thing. I wanted to know if there was a web site or a FAQ that I could read on what are some of the "gotchas" to look for when purchasing a 97' or 98' TJ. Which model is best? How do I tell if the vehicle comes with a locking diff? I will be using this vehicle primarily as my Winter daily driver in Michigan. (BTW, Any good Jeep Clubs in MI?)
I was told to find a 97' or 98' either Sport or Sahara package that comes with both the hard and soft tops, V-6, 5 spd Manual, ABS, locking rear diff, and between 60-80 K Miles. How much should I expect tp pay???
Thanks for listening to another newbie. (Man the Jeep Thing looks like fun!!!

Mike in Michigan

[SpilledMilk]

Greetings and welcome to the newest drain on your pocketbook.

First off, the Jeep Bible is a great place to start as far as subtlies and differences between various year TJ's. I picked on up prior to buying my '98. Having reviewed that, I like to think that I was a more informed buyer. Coming from a '93 TJ, there were huge differences. Things to look for:
- Check undercarriage for scrapes, rust, overall condition
- Ask about maintenance records, including factory service
- Ask if the diff fluids were changed and with what frequency
- Check the exhaust manifold for cracks (quite common on both)

IIRC, there were some problems with the '97's larger cowl that permitted rain to enter the cabin. This was fixed in '98, but both have problems with the condenser of the A/C getting clogged and creating a little pool on the passenger floorboard. Not a big deal - just something else to maintain. The '98 also has the dual top option, which sounds like something you want.

If there's a locker, the owner will tell you so.

Personal preference: Sport to the Sahara. The Sahara has more standard options, but I don't like the color-matched fender flares, (IMO) crappy side steps, and seat cover coloration.

Also, it's an I6, not a V6.

How much to pay? You'll have to ask someone local.

I'd stay away from ABS. Look for the Dana 44 instead - esp. w/ a locker!

I know there's alot more, but that's what's on the top of my head here at work. I'll let the rest of the pundits take over now.

Last thing: after you get your new rig, don't forget to wave to other CJ's, YJ's, and TJ's - as well as anyone else who waves at you in adoration of your new rig.

[soldierofchrist77]

hey Mike,

i'm new to the Jeep Thing myself, bought my '02 a little over a month ago, but i'll try to help with what i've learned so far.

...when purchasing a 97' or 98' TJ. Which model is best?

i'd say the '98 just because the '97 was the first year of the new body style, and typically first year models have some kinks that get worked out in the second years. that's just a general theory for any car. i'd go with the '98, just based on the assumption that models are approved upon over time.

since you're in Michigan, definitely get at least the hard top. hard and soft would be the ultimate because you get the best of both worlds, but the hard will go a long way in keeping you warmer during the winter months. if you find a jeep you absolutely want you can buy an aftermarket hard or soft top at a place like www.quadratec.com. real good site, great prices.

not sure how to tell a locking differential, but i've heard the Trac-Loc you can buy from the factory isn't worth much. if a previous owner put on an aftermarket Detroit locker or another brand i'm guessing you'll be able to read the manufacturer's name, so you can check for that.

while you're down there, check for any undercarriage damage from a previous owner not quite clearing any obstacles

i'd also highly recommend the 5-speed manual. i hear a manual helps a lot when wheelin'. if you aren't going to be doing a lot of that then an automatic might be sufficient, but the pre-'03 TJs have a 3-speed automatic, which doesn't appeal to me.

also, definitely get the I-6. it's a 4.0 inline 6, not a V6.

i'm sure someone else will be able to help you more than that, but i gave it a shot! hope it helps.

[soldierofchrist77]

rats! beware of echo

[ForeverTheOptimist]

Hey MEMTJ,

Just wanted to give my two cents worth. After checking underneath for scrapes and scratches, don't forget to look for
caked-on mud. When I bought our '00 Sahara, there was about
3 inches of mud and grass on top of the rail where the transmission is. (Obviously had been mudding and got it stuck) also, if it has carpet, lift the carpet and look for signs of mud and water. It will be pretty obvious, use it as a bargaining tool. One more thing, if you're leaning towards getting the auto transmission, look a little more seriously at the '03 4-speed models. Better fuel economy. Just as a comparison, my TJ gets about the same gas mileage as my V8 Suburban. Take care and ask lots of questions. That's why we're here.

Cheers,

[rkutzner]

You may find the Dana 44 hard to find but look for it. Do a search, the 44 is easy to tell from the weaker 35 in the rear.

As far as the hard top, I've found these new TJ stay pretty warm in the winter with the soft top, but I'm only in MD. Also, replacing the stock plastic connectors on the top with billet ones will keep the top very tight, the main reason the tops get looser over time is those plastic ones bend!

Most importantly, don't forget to WAVE!!!