What does it take to own a TJ?

[AndyG]

@hear and I chatted about this on another thread.

I can envision answers like…

- a trust fund

- a big set of tools

- a shop

- patience of Job

My take is you need to get over perfectionism, not be easily bummed out about a check engine light, be a persistent problem solver, understand the axle/steering design geometry, be willing to tackle your own mechanic work when needed (like when the shop that said they knew how doesn’t) and ultimately know how to sort out the myths from the truths about what works on these and what doesn’t. For that you get immense satisfaction and super fun ride that can take you most anywhere.

A person like this in 1978 was called “Dad” or “Uncle Jimmy “. In other words a normal guy back then. And if you were a kid around them, it rubbed off.

My answer may vary at times ….these things are like Legos for adults and a lot of what sounds like toil really is something to look forward to and just a fun break from life’s daily grind.

Love to hear from you guys…..

 

[P man]

Money
An understanding other half
Determination
Understanding
Patience
Money
Jeep buddies
Good forum with knowledgeable people
Money

 

[Foxhound67]

Want a TJ and a small fortune? Start with a large fortune.

 

[HornedToad]

Depends. Start with a reasonably low mile stock tj, keep it stock and there isn’t really a whole lot required vs any other vehicle. I suppose a higher tolerance to wind noise…

 

[fourpointzero]

I feel you, OP. I truly look forward to changing out things on my TJ. Maintenance is often fun and just so damn easy. I enjoy all of it. But what is needed?

-patience
-disposable income (if you're wheeling often or have a tall modification list)
-tools
-Huge plus if you have a garage or area to work on it away from the public or their prying eyes.

 

[inkedrose]

If you're going to have toys you need to be rich, or know how to work on them. Most of us fall somewhere in between

 

[John Cooper]

A desire to get out and enjoy the outdoors!!!!!

You can spend as much on mods as you want, or as little as you want!!

 

[Nashvillwill]

-decent floorjack
-basic tools (you’ll acquire more)
-The desire to keep it road and trail worthy

 

[inkedrose]

-basic tools (you’ll acquire more)

When I bought my first Jeep my best friend told me "Congrats on the new tool kit"

 

[WestCoastDan]

Stock in cat litter wouldn't hurt.

 

[Rickyd]

@AndyG for president

 

[Jamison C]

Ducks, lots of ducks.

That’s what @John Cooper told me anwyays!

 

[TheBoogieman]

When I bought my first Jeep my best friend told me "Congrats on the new tool kit"

Before I was going to test out my first Jeep (95' YJ) my buddy said, "just remember it's a Jeep, not a car." It was FUN to drive and I've never looked back.

 

[TheBoogieman]

Stock in cat litter wouldn't hurt.

I can't waste mine on the Jeep.

 

[TJ Jim]

Love.

 

[hardtailpan]

I actually find these quite easy to own. I do love to work on stuff which certainly helps but my other hobby is American muscle cars. The market on those has gone thru the roof to the point where the TJ is actually a reasonably cheap toy in comparison. Even my eventual hemi conversion TJ project will cost significantly less than say, a 71 Cuda.

 

[macleanflood]

Some basic tools and a gravel driveway.

 

[CreepinDeth]

Not a handy person, no tools, no garage
Low Mileage good OEM condition , pay$$$, leave it alone

Handy, tools, garage, resourceful person
mileage is irrelevant but great overall body & frame condition. Try to avoid bubba modified

In the end, comes down to skills, resourcefulness, & willingness to learn and get dirty. Frame & body you want solid. Motors are replaceable as are most things.

 

[JMT]

Commitment

 

[bbaldwin237]

Try to avoid bubba modified

This! It's easy to see one that's got all of the aftermarket goodies and get distracted from shoddy work, worn out and cheap parts, and bandaid fixes.

Same goes for abused rigs. It's one thing if you know what you are getting yourself into. But I think a lot of people (not necessarily here) get distracted by big tires and don't see that it has been beat on.