Are all frames the same from 1997 to 2006?

[KCoupe]

Hi everyone.
‘Very helpful Forum. Thank you for that.
My dilemma is my wife’s 2005 TJ was RHD.
It was totaled. Complete front needs to be replaced along with the frame.
My major concern and far as frames. Are they all the same from 1997 to 2006? Can left hand drive tubs be converted to right hand drive?
The tub is still good. The reason I’m asking is because of the vin.
The vin is totaled. I would like to buy another one and swap everything.
What type of walls am I going to hit during this process besides time?

 

[Steel City 06]

The frames changed from 97-02 to 03-06. There are a few differences I'm aware of, and probably a few I'm not. For example, the steering box pattern is different.

Aftermarket frames can be bought as well as used frames. Throttle Down Kustoms makes aftermarket frames

 

[JDS123]

1997-2006 frames are pretty close to the same, but not exactly. 97-02 and 03-06 are different in the steering box mount bolt pattern and the center transfer case skid bolt pattern. They can be converted, but it is a bit extra work. 03-06's are easier to find than 97-02's for some reason, so I wouldn't settle in your case.

I'm less familiar with LHD vs RHD, but I'd imagine the track bar mounts would be on opposite sides. I'm sure there are other differences, but I'm not totally sure.

Aftermarket frames are available, but they are expensive and might cause issues if you plan to do any extensive modifications down the road. The best way to go is to find a replacement OEM frame that will fit your need as best as possible. If you were searching for a LHD frame, you could expect to pay around $800 - $2500 depending the on the deal you found. RHD might be a bit harder to find, but I do remember running across quite a few on Ebay when I was searching for my frame. You might want to start there.

 

[F Troop]

I was just looking at daveysjeep.com web site. There’s a 2006 RHD frame rust free for $2000.

 

[JEEPCJTJ]

I was just looking at daveysjeep.com web site. There’s a 2006 RHD frame rust free for $2000.

For as many times I've suggested daveysjeep.com for so many needed parts, I wouldn't even have thought about them for this.

Also FWIW, I was just there last week with my son to look at a rust free YJ tub which is now in the workshop at my mom's house.

 

[Goatman]

I would think the firewall on the wife's Jeep would be completely different from a left hand drive Jeep. Steering and HVAC on opposite sides. Peddles mount different, etc. As far as actually bolting the tub I think would work, but is the gas fill on the same side? All the big stuff may swap, but the devil is in the details. How brake lines fit, emissions matching up, etc.

 

[KCoupe]

Thank you all for support so far.
Everyone’s imput is also correct.
Soooooo.....as far as more research.
The tubs are way to different.
The biggest difference so far is the steering box bracket that’s welded on the front corner of the frame. (to me nothing major)
Waiting on the insurance to return the TJ to check more differences.
Just trying to find out the tub mounting points.
A guy has for me a great ‘00 frame for cheap but I’m not holding hope on that.

 

[JCC]

@KCoupe, whatever became of this “swap?” I’m curious because I have a full LHD Jeep (disassembled). But bought a rust free RHD tub for cheap. I’ve cut out both firewalls already, and about to cut the dash out. Was wondering if you saw this through or not. Thanks!

 

[KCoupe]

@KCoupe, whatever became of this “swap?” I’m curious because I have a full LHD Jeep (disassembled). But bought a rust free RHD tub for cheap. I’ve cut out both firewalls already, and about to cut the dash out. Was wondering if you saw this through or not. Thanks!

All frames are the same from that time range. The difference is the gear box bracket is on the opposite side and there’s a steering rod bracket on the side also. The tubs has to do with firewall Only. Big difference. I would recommend another tub. the dash are about the same.