Spring Projects

[tyler.prough]

Hi y'all. First time posting as well as a first-time Jeep owner as of a few months ago. What I am wondering as a first-timer is what things I should be doing to make sure my new ride will last a long time. My Jeep has 90k miles on it and is overall in pretty good shape. I started wrenching on semi-trucks when I was twelve, so I am fairly handy with tools, not an expert by any means, but I can do a decent amount if I have the time (and right now, thanks to Coronavirus, I have a lot of time). I did just change the rear main seal as it was leaving a pretty noticeable puddle after just a few hours parked. That went well, so I'm just wondering what other things should I be on the lookout for? What parts tend to need replacing at 100k on a Jeep? What can I do now to save some headaches later? Thanks in advance for the replies!

 

[JEEPCJTJ]

Change every fluid. Differentials, transmission, brake, radiator, power steering, and anything I left off the list.

 

[pagrey]

RADIATOR! That thing is a ticking time bomb.

Ha ha, just kiddding, maybe.

Change all the fluids including the brake fluid. You might consider 02 sensors as well. Stick around, always great to have an experienced mechanic on board. Like the picture, always loved those alcoa wheels.

 

[DaYooperTransplant]

You're in the right place if you want to know everything there is to know about a TJ. A ton of knowledge on here. One thing you might check out real close is your frame. Inside and out. Michigan winters wreak havoc on them, and getting a head start on preservation is key.
Welcome to the forum, my family all live in the GR area. Lowell mainly.

 

[tyler.prough]

Thanks for the replies! I have made a list of general tune-up procedures I want to hit in the next few months. Changing all fluids is a must, and I’m also going to put in new plugs and wires, injectors, and o2 sensors. Any other things I should consider?

@pagrey What are the issues with the radiators?

@DaYooperTransplant Thankfully, my TJ was originally a Texas Jeep, so the frame is in great shape, but I’m going to need a plan for future winters (this winter was so mild there was hardly any salt used on the roads).

 

[Chris]

Thanks for the replies! I have made a list of general tune-up procedures I want to hit in the next few months. Changing all fluids is a must, and I’m also going to put in new plugs and wires, injectors, and o2 sensors. Any other things I should consider?

@pagrey What are the issues with the radiators?

@DaYooperTransplant Thankfully, my TJ was originally a Texas Jeep, so the frame is in great shape, but I’m going to need a plan for future winters (this winter was so mild there was hardly any salt used on the roads).

He's kidding about the radiators. An OEM Mopar radiator should easily last 10 plus years and over 100k miles. However, even with 90k miles, it's starting to get very old, so you may want to consider cooling system overhaul (see this thread: Jeep Wrangler TJ Cooling System Overhaul FAQ).

 

[pagrey]

What are the issues with the radiators?

They split at the top of the plastic tank. Some make it well past 100k but a Mopar radiator at 100k is getting ready to pop and it's a pain when they do. You are approaching that number. Aftermarket radiators can fail much sooner than 100k but like the Mopar radiators there are exceptions to every rule. At a minimum once you get to 100k I'd do a careful regular inspection of the upper plastic section of the tank. I have a replacement Mopar on mine but that doesn't mean "I'm good" it just means I reset the clock.

 

[CaliSteve]

Welcome to the forum, my OEM radiator went to 120K, since been replaced by the Mopar replacement.

 

[tyler.prough]

They split at the top of the plastic tank. Some make it well past 100k but a Mopar radiator at 100k is getting ready to pop and it's a pain when they do. You are approaching that number. Aftermarket radiators can fail much sooner than 100k but like the Mopar radiators there are exceptions to every rule. At a minimum once you get to 100k I'd do a careful regular inspection of the upper plastic section of the tank. I have a replacement Mopar on mine but that doesn't mean "I'm good" it just means I reset the clock.

Awesome, thanks for the heads up! I read another post about using Mopar radiators, so I will look into that sometime this summer. Might as well redo the entire system while I'm at it just to start fresh. @Chris I saw your thread on that as well.

Thanks to all.

 

[Chris]

You're welcome

Yep, always use Mopar replacement parts unless there is no other option.

 

[Goatman]

And after all that you should take a close look at your bushings. Control arms, steering tie and drag links, etc. Accesory belt, tensioner bearing, etc.