jeepfan.com blog

Will gas prices stop you from off-roading?

2008-06-24T20:15:00.002-05:00

We crunch the numbers and see what it really costs you. The answer isn't as bad as it looks.

Using the jeepfan.com JK we tested out what the cost difference really is. During a few trail runs to Rausch Creek we kept track of the total fuel usage and applied it to $2.00/gallon gas vs. $4.00/gallon.

From our home base to Rausch Creek it's about 60 miles one way. We filled the JK and set off for RC.

We wheeled the Jeep all day and drove it back and used less than 1/2 a tank of gas or roughly 9 gallons. Not bad fuel usage for a Jeep.

See the full article Will gas prices stop you from off-roading?

AMC V8 Tech Question

2008-06-07T07:02:00.003-05:00

QUESTION: I have a chance to buy a 1976 CJ-7 with an automatic trans and 304 engine. The body is in great condition but naturally the interior has it's problems, all original.
The 304 seems pretty well used, is a 360 just a bored out 304 or what engine would you suggest for a horse power gain with a minimun amout of trouble? Bob

ANSWER: A 360 is not technically a bored out 304 but will bolt right in place of a 304. All AMC V8 engines since about 1965 share the same outer dimensions and mounting points but vary in bore and stroke to obtain different a CID. A 360 has a wider bore and longer stroke. A few performance modifications can wake up a 304 if the essence of the engine is good. An all stock 360 swap will not bring too much more HP since they only were rated about 30-50 more HP.

Related Articles
AMC 360 Rebuild

OK Auto 2008 Rock Krawl Event - This Weekend

2008-04-21T20:21:00.002-05:00

Get ready for this coming weekend and check out OK Auto's Rock Krawl event.

Sponsored by Warn, OK Auto's Rock Krawl event is back. This 2 day event starts on Saturday with an open house at OK Auto in Stewartsville, NJ followed by a day of trail riding on Sunday at Rausch Creek Off-Road Park...more

Sneaky Dana 20 Transfer Case Tech

2008-04-16T20:12:00.002-05:00

QUESTION: I recently purchased a used dana 20 transfer case,the previous owner said the t case shift pattern is 4H 2H N 2L and 4L is this correct. OZARKJEEPN

ANSWER: Officially the typical pattern in a CJ is 4H 2H N 4L but after time the shift linkage loosens up to allow 2L. The Dana 20 in the jeepfan.com CJ has the pattern you described below even though the shift knob says it the way mentioned above.

Consider it a bonus with age!

New tires and wheels

2008-03-22T09:12:00.002-05:00

We just added a set of the new BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires mounted to a set of AEV Pintler wheels to the jeepfan.com JK. Looks great and rides/handles great too. Check them out.

BF Goodrich Mud Terrain KM2 tires and AEV Pintler Wheels

Wrangler JK Power Locks

2008-03-17T11:52:00.004-05:00

QUESTION: I've got an 08 Unlimted X and have a question about the power locks. I want to get an "add-a-trunk" and most of those are lockable based on the tailgate being locked. Problem is, if the top is off, the power lock switch is accessable on the door and switching it unlocks the tailgate. Any thoughts or instructs on how to bypass the power lock on the tailgate? Chad

ANSWER: Great question with a good answer. The Jeep designers thought ahead here and designed the power lock switches to deactivate when the Jeep is locked with the remote. So, if you park your Jeep, get out, lock it with the remote, the internal switches will no longer work. Furthermore if someone would climb into the Jeep and try to open a door the alarm will go off. The rear gate cannot be unlocked from the inside. Your stuff in the add-a-trunk should be as safe as possiible.

UPDATE: You need to wait about 20 seconds for the lock switches to deactivate. Thanks for doing some further testing Chad.

See Jeep interior products and reviews

Converting a Jeep from a 6 cyl to a V8

2008-03-15T11:30:00.002-05:00

QUESTION: So I have a 79 CJ-5 that the original 258 motor is blown, that's a story in itself. I found a 360 out of an 85 Wagoneer for cheap, so I said why not put this in my CJ-5. Yeah right, now that I have it apart and in a million pieces I found out the hard way why you just can't put a V-8 in a Jeep. So here is my list of questions for you...

ANSWER: Yes, it's is not just a pop it in swap but it is one of the easiest conversions since you can use all OEM stuff.

1. What motor mounts do you use? I have the actual motor mounts that are made of rubber. I also have a set of frame mounts from a CJ-5 that originally had a 304, will these work? I am having a hard time trying to get it to sit INSIDE the frame. So, do I need different motor brackets (it still has the original wagoneer brackets on the motor, or do I just finesse it a little? If it does where do I get them?

ANSWER: You will have the easiest time using a set of motor mounts from a V8 equipped CJ. If you want to upgrade MORE makes complete "bomb proof" mounts. OEM style mounts can be found from OMIX. See links below about contacting these companies. Your Jeep may have a T-18 if it has a 4 speed. The T-176 wasn't really used until the 80's. If your Jeep is a 3 speed it's a T-150. Installation tip: You should free the transmission of the skid plate since the V8 may cause the transmission mount to change a bit, this depends. Basically mount the engine to the frame and then figure out the skid plate/transmission mount. It probably won't change.

2. How in the world do you go from an automatic tranny to a 4 speed T-176, (that is what tranny I currently have, I think?) I cannot find anyone with the right answers, or any answers for that matter.

ANSWER: You would need a flywheel from an AMC V8 and the proper clutch disc/pressure plate. Go with new stuff here since it's not the easiest place to get to. Get the flywheel turned. The Centerforce clutches are real nice in a Jeep. Since your Jeep year was available with the V8 just order a clutch disc/pressure plate for that year Jeep with a V8.

ANYTHING you can help me with would GREATLY be appreciated. Oh, by the way, your 78 looks AWESOME I bet it tries to outrun those tires. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Tony "The lost Jeeper" Jones

Thanks for the great question and with some patience and attention to detail you should come out OK. Send us some pictures!

Resources:
OK Auto - They can get you the proper parts you need from MORE and Omix. Give them a shout.
jeepfan.com 1978 CJ-5

New BDS 3" Lift for the JK

2008-02-28T09:19:00.003-05:00

Just installed the new 3" BDS lift and it's nice. Ride quality is actually better than before. Very smooth but yet firm and solid when it counts. Probably due to the variable rate shocks. Need to do some tweaking and get an alignment still.

See the whole install. BDS 3" Lift Install

Wrangler JK Front Track Bar

2008-02-25T20:50:00.003-05:00

QUESTION: Your tech article about the rear BDS track bar bracket for the JK makes sense and was very informitive, but what about the front of the JK after a 2.5" Tera Flex lift. Why wouldn't there need to be an adjustment to the front axle? Howie

ANSWER: The front track bar angle seems to affect the Jeep less than the rear. A bigger component in the front is the steering drag link. That's the rod that goes from the steering box to the passenger side axle knuckle. If the track bar and drag link are at different angles the Jeep will experience bad bump steer. Using a track bar bracket in the front requires using a drop pitman arm of the same size. Recently we upgraded the jeepfan.com to a full BDS 3" lift in which we installed an adjustable track bar. This bar doesn't change the angle but allows the front axle to be centered after the lift causes the axle to shift slightly to one side.

Related articles:
BDS 3" Lift for Wrangler JK Rubicon
jeepfan.com 2007 JK Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon
BDS JK Rear Track Bar Drop Bracket Install
TeraFlex 2.5" Budget Boost JK Lift Kit Install

CJ-5 Hardtop

2008-02-08T21:06:00.000-05:00

QUESTION: I own a 1978 CJ-5, & i would like to purchase a hardtop for it. I know that the 78 didn\'t have a hardtop. My question is; Is there a later model year hardtop that would fit it? Ruben

ANSWER: There never was a factory hardtop available for the CJ-5 but there were several aftermarket companies that made them. I have seen ones made of steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. The fiberglass were most common and looked the best. Acme was probably the most popular hardtop manufacturer back in the day but as far as I know there isn't any companies making CJ-5 hardtops anymore since the ol' 5's are dwindling.

A hardtop from a CJ-7 will not fit a CJ-5. The 5 was 10 inches shorter and the tub sides are lower. In addition the CJ-7 door openings were much larger and shaped completely different.

You are pretty much left with finding an old used one somewhere hopefully in useable shape. If you do find one make sure it will fit the 76-82 CJ-5...the pre-76 CJ-5 used a different windshield making the tops in compatible.

Frame Replacement Question

2008-01-27T18:32:00.000-05:00

QUESTION: I was reading your frame replacement on your 78 CJ-5 with interest. I have a 79 CJ-5. I have a bolt on tire carrier. It's mounted to the rear cross member. Appears as if it's a little too heavy, as cracks have appeared in the cross member where the bumper/carrier is mounted. Question: It looks like the cross member is welded to the frame in a few locations. Yes/No? Can I simply unbolt the cross-member and replace, or is there more involved? I plan on replacing the cross member, and reinforcing the area where the bumper/tire carrier mounts. I don't weld, but have a place near by that can do it for me. (This Jeep is a family heirloom...it's been to Italy and back with us, and I learned to drive in it.) James Walker

ANSWER: The crossmember is fully welded to the frame and would need to be cut off to be replaced. There are factory replacement cross members available. Contact OK Auto for more info on a replacement. In our frame replacement article we replaced the rear cross member with a piece of 3/16" "C" channel. The channel is much cleaner looking and stronger. The new cross member is welded in place and the rear bumper is bolted to the cross member backed with reinforcement plates the bolt to the frame as well.

With the body on the Jeep cutting the old member off will not be easy.

Related article: CJ-5 Frame Replacement

Jeep Renegade Concept - More of the frog look

2008-01-19T20:51:00.000-05:00

Jeep is unveiling its new concept vehicle the Jeep Renegade. Continuing the frog look but still kinda cool. Perhaps a glimpse into the future of Jeep vehicles.

While I am content to not really see this thing on the dealer lot I still enjoy seeing what the creative minds are coming up with in Toledo.

A hybrid backed by a small diesel engine this Jeep is capable of 110 MPG and 40 miles on a single battery charge.

See the full article

Chrysler reveals Jeep Renegade Concept

New Hummer HX to rival the Wrangler? We aren't scared.

2008-01-12T10:32:00.000-05:00

From CNNMoney: General Motors executives have long said that their Hummer line needs a new model. Soon, it will be adding a pick-up. Beyond that, the only direction left to go is smaller. And that means going head to head with the Jeep Wrangler.

GM is hoping to rival the Jeep Wrangler with the new Hummer HX. A 2 door, plastic looking SUV with full time 4WD and a 3.6L V6. I don't think those of us here at the Jeep camp will be converting anytime soon.

* A Youthful, open-air entry-level-size HUMMER

* Designed by a trio of young designers

* Convertible body with removable roof panels and modular rear roof assembly

* Easily removable fender flares and doors

* Full-time 4WD with front and rear locking differentials

* Aeronautically inspired interior with functional, lightweight design elements

* Reconfigurable instruments for highway and off-road driving

* 3.6L SIDI V-6 E85 FlexFuel engine with six-speed automatic transmission

IMO - The futuristic looking vehicle appeals to an entirely different crowd. Bring it on...

If you want to see more see it on the HummerForums.com

Tire chains on a Wrangler JK

2008-01-05T07:48:00.001-05:00

QUESTION: I am a 07 JK owner. The factory manual states that you cannot use tire chains on a rubicon. I would like to know why. I called a local dealer and they don't have a clue. Is this to do with the ESP control? Any help will be very much appreciated. Ralph

ANSWER: I think the main reasons are for possibly 2 things.

Tire clearance: The wider/larger tires on the Rubicon may cause the chains to make contact with the rear suspension and/or the rear part of the rock rails. The excessive backspacing on the JK causes the tires to get very close to the rear suspension arms and sway bar.

Lockers: Personally, I wouldn't think it's a problem if you did use the locker while running chains at low speeds and for a limited time. Another fact that the JK lockers are only usable in low-range and under 18 mph.

I probably would avoid them since if something happens you may be at fault and your warranty may be cover it.

Mopar Rock Rails Installation

2007-12-31T07:18:00.000-05:00

We installed a set of the enhanced Rubicon style rock rails on Christine's JK. They are essentially a set of Rubicon rock rails with an added tubular side rail. Adds some extra strength and side protection.

Installation was a snap and only took about 1 hour.

See the install...Mopar Rock Rails for Wrangler JK

More on Christine's 2007 JK Wrangler Unlimited Sahara

Liberty Lift - Higher than 2.5"?

2007-12-22T17:09:00.000-05:00

QUESTION: Hi, I own an 05 Jeep liberty Renegade and currently have a Skyjacker 2.5 coil lift runnin on 265/75/16 mud tires. I love the way it is but I want to go bigger lift and tires. I know it's possible to lift it higher becasue I've seen some pics of some one a 5 inch and another a 12inch. I was wondering if you knew what needed to be done to acheive this. I know I need new front control arms and longer brake lines and streering stablizers and what else do you guys recommend...any companies? I'm willing to do anything to make this happen. Thank you for your time and hope to hear from you soon. Eric

ANSWER: We too have seen Liberty lifts higher than the 2.5" size made by many manufacturers but they all are custom made lifts. They Liberty can be easily lift 2-2.5" but more than that messes with the front axle shafts and require alterations to the A arms. Most recommend against lifting the Liberty higher than the 2.5" size unless you have good fabrication skills and the tools.

Old CJ-5 Steering Rod Ends

2007-12-18T21:01:00.001-05:00

QUESTION: Hey I saw a part on your website (left hand thread tie rod end #ES2233L) My Jeep is a 1966 CJ-5 and I keep getting the wrong part sent to me from 4x4 shops. This part looks to be the one I need. Is the thread diamater 11/16th's? Also, is this part designed to thread from the top down or bottom up on the steering knuckle? How do I buy it? Abram Clark

ANSWER: In the article provided to us from Parts Mike: Jeep Tie Rod and Drag Link End Identification he identifies many varieties of rod ends used in various year Jeeps. While we don't have too much more specifics we can recommend a few places that can help.

Parts Mike - He is the creator of the original article and an excellent resource
OK Auto - Reseller of many varieties of Jeep parts.
Walck's 4WD - They specialize in early CJ parts.

AEV JK Wrangler Bumper Install

2007-12-17T08:42:00.001-05:00

Well after about 8 hours the bumper is installed and looks great. We did a full write-up on the installation. The bumper and it's components are top quality. The instructions were very detailed but had a few inconsistencies.

See the full article: AEV JK Wrangler Front Bumper Install

East Coast 4 Wheel Drive Association Jeep Racing Memories

2007-12-10T08:48:00.000-05:00

We have been collecting pictures from the "old days" of EC4WDA off road racing. These events were held at several locations across eastern PA throughout the summers. If you have any good pictures you would like to share send us a message from the main page.

Go to the East Coast 4 Wheel Drive Association Region B Racing Memories from Days Past pages.

Congratulations to Us

2007-11-14T09:16:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to us for jeepfan.com is now celebrating 10 years on the web. What started as a Jeep fan site featuring a few friends Jeeps has turned into a large Jeep related information site. We certainly have come a long way! On another note...this is the 100th blog entry too!

From this...1997

To this...2007

2007 and Up Wrangler JK Wheels on a TJ or YJ

2007-11-12T09:54:00.000-05:00

I get many questions from readers on this...

QUESTION: I want to know if my 93 YJ will accept rims off of a 2007 Sahara Unlimited? Gary

ANSWER: Nope, but they will with an adapter. The new Wrangler JK uses the 5 on 5" wheels. The TJ and YJ Jeep Wranglers use the 5 on 4.5" wheels.

There are several companies that make adapters but we usually suggest Spider Trax. Read more. Spidertrax Wheel Adapter Kits

More info on adapting wheels: Jeep Wheels Fitment Guide

JK Wrangler 2 Door vs. 4 Door - On Trail Observations

2007-11-06T21:16:00.000-05:00

Last weekend a few of us tackled some trails for the day at Rausch Creek Off Road Park in PA. It was a beautiful fall day, the leaves were changing and created exceptional colors in the forest. The air was cool but not cold and reached the mid to upper 50's by mid-day.

The trip allowed us to compare a 4 door JK Wrangler to a 2 door JK Wrangler...since there were both kinds available. Two 4 doors and 1 2 door. A Rubicon of both types and all three were lifted with larger tires.

Read the full report...JK Wrangler 2 Door vs. 4 Door - On Trail Observations

CJ-5 Transmission Swap

2007-10-25T19:55:00.000-05:00

QUESTION: Is a mid-80s 5-speed T5 trasmission + Dana 300 combo out of a CJ7 too long for my 1977 CJ5? My concern is the rear drive shaft length. My 3speed T150/D20 is worn out and have been offered the T5 set for little money. My Jeep is not lifted, stock tires, i only drive paved roads locally, no mudding, no rock crawl. The overdrive seems good to me. Mine is extreme light duty use. I am a machinist by trade and can make or modify driveshafts. Thanks, Paul

ANSWER: Let's look at the length differences first. The T150 measures 9.25" and the Dana 20 is 10.75". The T5 measures 15.25" and the Dana 300 is 14". So the total lengths are 20" for the T-150+Dana20 and 29.25" for the T5+Dana300. To the point you are looking at an additional 9.25". It'll fit but the driveshaft will be real short and will probably vibrate from an extreme angle unless the transfercase mount is lowered. There are a lot of other issues with the swap. The floor holes will be in the wrong place, both driveshafts will need to be altered, and the clutch will need to be replaced. CJ-5's are difficult when it comes to transmission swaps.

Related Article: Jeep Transmission Tech

Rebuilding a Levi's Edition Jeep

2007-10-20T20:37:00.000-05:00

QUESTION: Today I was driving to my destination when I saw a Jeep Levi edition for sale. It was in pretty rough condition with rust through holes in the body and a few other issues. It was priced at $1095 (which I would hope the seller would come down from considering the condition of the Jeep). My question is, how difficult is it to restore a jeep? I've not restored a car before and not sure I would tackle that job, but was wondering about how much in a some what worst case scenario do you think it would take to bring a Jeep, Levi Edition back to life?

ANSWER: Oh man! What you could be getting into is almost indescribable. Just look around jeepfan.com at some of the projects and see what's involved. The time and effort is one thing and the money is another. If you have no experience with rebuilding vehicles it may be a frustrating endeavor.

See the projects section.

Shoulder Seat Belts in a CJ

2007-10-05T08:41:00.000-05:00

QUESTION: Is there a set up available to put shoulder straps in the back of a jeep cj? Tom Bertke
ANSWER: Yes, there are a few options. Most often Jeepers will use a roll bar from a later year YJ in thier CJ to utilize the rear shoulder belts. The YJ roll bar will bolt directly into a CJ-7 with no modifications. You may need to change the seat belts at the rear seat. Best bet - get the whole works from a donor YJ. Another option is a custom roll bar. This will cost considerably more but may look "cooler".