How to make the best on-road TJ/LJ

X2. That's what gets me on the really long drives too.

This is again why I mentioned sound dampening materials. That's going to be the best way to get any TJ / LJ comfortable to drive on longer trips. If you get the right stuff, it makes a big difference too.

That's fair, I still have some issues to fix from the PO but mine isn't horrible right now. Just exploring ideas to make it better especially on very long drives. It looks like steering, sound dampening and creature comforts are probably big themes
 
  • Like
Reactions: Chris
That's fair, I still have some issues to fix from the PO but mine isn't horrible right now. Just exploring ideas to make it better especially on very long drives. It looks like steering, sound dampening and creature comforts are probably big themes

Your hardtop is already lined with a headliner, so you're one step ahead in that department.
 
Here is what I think will make the TJ better for longer trips.

1. Full doors
2. Hard top
3. Smoother shocks and better tires (like Ranchos)
4. Sound proofing!!!!
5. Better seats
6. Cruise Control (Even on the manual)
7. Hot girl on the passenger seat?

Cheers
Hmmm! I think any car/truck or what ever will be better on long trips.
Here is what I think will make the TJ better for longer trips.

1. Full doors
2. Hard top
3. Smoother shocks and better tires (like Ranchos)
4. Sound proofing!!!!
5. Better seats
6. Cruise Control (Even on the manual)
7. Hot girl on the passenger seat?

Cheers
 
X2. That's going to make a big difference. Long drives with soft tops are even worse, that's for sure.

Yep this one is a lot quieter than my white TJ as far as wind noise. I want to change all the seals out sometime too, I know my interior windshield seal is loose
 
  • Like
Reactions: Chris
Mine is a daily and I have driven it all over the mountains and Midwest states. Shocks and tire pressure are critical for comfort. Tight steering and good alignments go a long way so that you are not fighting the Jeep while you drive.

What gets to me eventually after a very long drive is the wind and noise. Other that that, I don't find my Jeep to be any more or less comfortable than any other car I drive or ride in.

Are you running the RS5000X? What steps did you take to tighten up the steering?
 
  • Like
Reactions: tomtaylz
5000x in the front. Outboarded and tuned Foxes in the rear.

Nearly every part of my steering and suspension has been replaced over the last few years.

Thanks. Is there any good reading material or references on all the different steering components to replace?

I’ve got the Currie steering up front but would be interested in replacing the parts from there to the steering wheel.
 
Thanks. Is there any good reading material or references on all the different steering components to replace?

I’ve got the Currie steering up front but would be interested in replacing the parts from there to the steering wheel.

I haven't touched the box or anything above that.

Look at ball joints, track bar, control arms, caster... any and all connections. Loose connections all add up to and contribute to poor handling and unpleasantness.
 
  • Like
Reactions: jchadscud
Comfort is defined differently for everyone i think. My Jeep is nothing special; lift, 33s, mid-level shocks and upgraded stereo and speakers. Other than the worn steering parts i need to replace to tighten up the steering feel a bit, i have driven it 12 hours at a time several times and 17 hours straight once and i was perfectly fine with the ride. I just turn up the stereo and set the cruise and enjoy the ride. Another 200hp would be nice but you can't have everything. :)
 
Last edited:
The Muddog's suspension is completely stock, except for 31 in tires and new RS5000 shocks. It has a Rampage bowless top on it.
Last month I drove from Arizona to Ohio and back. Was it noisy? Yes. But other than that, I have no complaints. I drove from about 6:00 A.M. until about 5:00 P.M, with just stops for fuel and relief.
At the end of the day, I wasn't as tired as I usually am after driving a 2015 Freightliner with an automatic. The Muddog has a 5 speed.
 
Over spring break last year, I drove a total of 5 hours in a day on the highway, not counting offroading. No top or doors, 60 degree weather. My only complaint is my knee got really tight from holding the gas for 2 hours straight.
 
  • Like
Reactions: JMT
Is there a link on how to take a console out of a 2006 with auto trans? I am going to do the sound proofing also.
Any tricks to getting the seats out?