Why the arguments between CJ, Wrangler YJ and Wrangler TJ owners?

True Jeep people would only argue in a friendly way. As the saying goes, "true 4x4s are built, not bought." The truth is, any CJ, or Wrangler YJ or Wrangler TJ that is modified for trail use is a very capable vehicle and the differences between these models give each their own advantages. The arguments about which is best seem to center around how Jeep has made this vehicle more comfortable and on-road performing and whether or not comfort equals durability and functionality compromises. You'll also notice attacks about round headlights versus square headlights (CJ and Wrangler TJ have round headlights while the Wrangler YJ has square headlights) and leaf-based versus coil-based suspension systems (CJ and Wrangler YJ have leaf-based and Wrangler TJ has coil-based).

It all seems to have started when Jeep released the first Wrangler, the 1987 YJ. While this vehicle looked similar to the CJ, it had an updated interior, and softer ride and the telltale square headlights, which many CJ owners quickly made synonymous with what they thought was a wimpy new Jeep. Gone was the Dana 44 rear end (in favor of the smaller, lighter duty Dana 35). Gone were the chrome round instrument gauges on the flat metal instrument panel (YJ introduced a plastic panel with higher-tech gauges) and gone was the carburated engine in favor of electronic fuel injection (on the 2.5 litre 4 cylinder only - the 4.2 litre six was computer-controlled carburated).

When the TJ was announced, CJ owners were happy to see the round headlights back again, as well as the optional Dana 44 rear end. But YJ owners were pessimistic over the introduction of airbags and a cushy interior. After all, the YJ (and CJ for that matter) could be hosed down on the inside.

What tires sizes will fit on my Wrangler with and without a lift?

Good question! The following table explains what fits. Note that Jeep Wrangler YJ and TJ are different. Also, tires sizes between manufacturers are not the same size. Some tires have a thicker lug and are thus a little taller than the indicated size and vice versa.

YJ Wrangler (87-95)

TJ Wrangler (97-05)

Don't forget that tire WIDTH also matters. The tires might fit under your rig but may rub when you turn. You might also need to modify the width of your fender flares if your tires extend past the ones you have on there now. Some states require that your tires be covered completely by fender wells or flares to prevent debris from flying.

To remove the doors on the Jeep Wrangler YJ or TJ, remove the nut at the bottom of the door hinge. Remove the swing-limiting door strap from inside and open the door. Pull the door straight up. Be prepared to use a metal lubricant if it doesn't come off right away since the older your Jeep Wrangler is the harder it may be to take off. To disable the light and/or buzzer, locate your fusebox near the emergency brake pedal and find the fuse labeled"Door Jam Defeat". Removing the fuse will turn off both. Important note: you may live in a state where you are required to have a driver's side rear view mirror at minimum, therefore you'll need to fabricate or purchase a mirror that mounts to the body or windshield hinge. We've seen the windshield hinge mount mirrors for sale at aftermarket stores. Visit the Online Stores section of Jeeps Only for a listing of online stores to check.

Note: Thanks to Jeremy Thompson for finding this info for us with help from 1997-2001 Wrangler (TJ) FAQ list by Todd Murray.