Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

Inner Frame Rust Removal

ReconMarine

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Dec 16, 2024
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Wyoming
Hello. I just joined the forum and am very excited to learn more about my recent purchase — 2003 TJ Wrangler (Rubicon) jeep w/64k miles. Before I purchased it, I was well aware of the problems w/a boxed frame (which I believe is a design flaw) and how it is prone to rusting from the inside out. Would like to know if anyone on this forum has any options or recommendations on how to remove the rust from the inside of the frame. I've viewed a few YouTube videos and some owners have suggested using various tools (plumber auger w/chains) to remove the rust. But I think that is cumbersome and may not remove all the internal rust. Note — my jeep has some rust inside, but it is difficult to tell...there is also very little surface rust on the frame (i.e., nothing is rotting; and I can take care of the surface rust myself). The concern is how to deal w/inside rust. Thank you very much for allowing me to join this forum.
 
I agree that a clog hog, or any kind of sewer jetter, is a good way to go.

I did this a while back and my notes are here.
 
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The clog hog is the only way. Tip...do not get one intended for an electric 1500psi jobber. Buy one for 4-5,000psi and rent a pressure washer of that caliber for the day.

Also, a 20 dollar endoscopy off Amazon will have you looking inside the frame, not guessing.

There are ways to remove the remaing rust that is not chiseled off from the pressure washer. Then a proper coating will have you safe.

Jeeps rot from the inside out. Visible rust on the outside has a high probability of originating on the inside.
 
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Hello. I just joined the forum and am very excited to learn more about my recent purchase — 2003 TJ Wrangler (Rubicon) jeep w/64k miles. Before I purchased it, I was well aware of the problems w/a boxed frame (which I believe is a design flaw) and how it is prone to rusting from the inside out. Would like to know if anyone on this forum has any options or recommendations on how to remove the rust from the inside of the frame. I've viewed a few YouTube videos and some owners have suggested using various tools (plumber auger w/chains) to remove the rust. But I think that is cumbersome and may not remove all the internal rust. Note — my jeep has some rust inside, but it is difficult to tell...there is also very little surface rust on the frame (i.e., nothing is rotting; and I can take care of the surface rust myself). The concern is how to deal w/inside rust. Thank you very much for allowing me to join this forum.

All good suggestions above, in the end I prefer to use multiple form of attack starting with a chain flail. We ran his short piece of 1/2 snake with chain threaded in thru every opening and it cleaned everything in its path.

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Thank you all for the comments....I will review what you posted and study the recommendations. Thank you again. What a great forum. I will post another request on technical/maintenance manuals. I recently ordered one from "Haynes Manuals".
 
Haynes manuals are questionable and not the way to go. You will find the factory service manual for your TJ in the TJ Resources section of this forum.

Funny isn't it? They used to be the Gold Standard. In the 60s, I had a shit pot of Haynes & Chiltons. It was hard to do much without them.
 
Funny isn't it? They used to be the Gold Standard. In the 60s, I had a shit pot of Haynes & Chiltons. It was hard to do much without them.

I contend they still might be the standard today. Condensed version of the FSM and 98% accurate.

They are readily available where parts are sold. Cost much less than Bentley (not every model is covered). But for those who use the internet the FSM are now available. But if you are not on forums getting links to the manuals, you are probably going to AutoZone and buying Chilton.
 
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I contend they still might be the standard today. Condensed version of the FSM and 98% accurate.

They are readily available where parts are sold. Cost much less than Bentley (not every model is covered). But for those who use the internet the FSM are now available. But if you are not on forums getting links to the manuals, you are probably going to AutoZone and buying Chilton.

Thank you
 
I contend they still might be the standard today. Condensed version of the FSM and 98% accurate.

They are readily available where parts are sold. Cost much less than Bentley (not every model is covered). But for those who use the internet the FSM are now available. But if you are not on forums getting links to the manuals, you are probably going to AutoZone and buying Chilton.

I regularly refer to my Haynes or Chiltons when working on everything but my TJ. TJ information is much easier found on this forum. 🇺🇸
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts