72afr's 2004 TJ Rubicon

Trying to reduce the amount of road salt thrown at the frame, the Jeep sat most of the winter in the garage. Got it out a few weeks back to check deer cameras on our property and snapped a few pics.



With gas prices being ridiculous, looks like the 2500hd will be relegated to an as-needed status and the TJ will again be the daily driver. Last year I put a whole 1500 miles on it. Luckily, I haven't bit the bullet and put the lift and 33's on it as I planned last year, which should help with gas mileage over what it could be. Pretty easy to forget how fun this is to drive, but the reduction is cab space from the crew cab is definitely noticed.

Finally got the TJ into the shop to address a few coolant leaks so I can start dailying this thing again. Got home from work on Fri and snapped a few pics with Mrs. 72afr's new ride. I knew these JL's were big, but sitting next to mine (which sits at least 1.5" over stock height) really puts it into perspective.


I took the TJ out for a cruise yesterday along some backroads and was back working in the garage when I hear a hiss and fluid hitting the pavement. The radiator that was installed not 6 months ago cracked in two spots along the top tank. Quite frustrating.

Radiator replaced! Also swapped out tops for the summer. This time included putting on the factory takeoff soft top I picked up from a fellow forum member. Super clean!


Followed up with a much needed wash and wax.



Took a few glamour shots as well...

Weather was nice this weekend, so I finally got around to putting on my BMB pads and rotors.



Wasn't 100% awake yet and the front caliper slipped out of my hand, swung down, hit the control arm and cracked the piston. As my small town has exactly zero parts stores, I called up my dad to bring out a new set of front calipers while I finished up the rears. I was also greeted with yet another leaking radiator. China just doesn't make them like they used to...


After we wrapped that up, we took the '72 for a spin and some 4 barrel tweaking.

Finally got a radiator to last more than 6 months! LOL. Not much happening on the '04 as I've focused my funds on other projects around the house/garage. The BM brakes are great, but they have got to be the dustiest set I've ever had across all of my years. Minor gripe. Anyway, been mostly running around the summer with the top/rear seat removed and the duster installed. Pretty neat little add on. Went for a cruise with my parents using my TJ since their CJ was needing new rear axles.


Picked the last batch of the chanterelles on our property this weekend before the heat ends them.

Jamison C said:

My guy that is 100% a ROTM photo.

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Hah! Appreciate it. I've submitted a few times, but if you're not on a boulder or out in the mountains, you're pretty far down the list. My barely modified Jeep in my woods just can't compete (rightfully so. there are some pretty epic scenes that come out in ROTM).

Mike_H said:

I love seeing a nice, clean Rubicon. Yours looks great! There is a place for the big builds, but the 31-32" tire, 2" lift builds have it just right too!

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Appreciate it Mike! I've followed along on both of your build threads and have been much inspired. Very nice build and one I'd love to one day replicate (at least your first build anyway, HAH).