Bram

Hi all I thinking about buying another Jeep and had a few questions.
I'm currently looking at a 09 Rubicon unlimited. I have no experience with JK's only CJ's and TJ's, your opinions would be appreciated.

1. Which is better with the JK's auto or manual transmission.

2. How big of tires can you run before you start noticing the engine dog down with the factory 4.10's? I no this will be different for an auto verses a manual.

I don't plan on running difficult trails with this one just moderate ones, it will be more of a daily driver than anything but, I do want some lift and tires so it looks good and works on the trail.
I wonder if it would be better to buy a plain jane JK unlimited and build it or just go ahead and get the loaded Rubicon? I don't want nor have a lot of money to put in this.
My dealer is asking 29,900.00 for a 09 Rubicon Unlimited, is that to high?
Thanks

HGF

I think you can probably find a better deal, people have been saying 6-9 grand off sticker, personally I love my manual and the 4.10 is supposed to be ok with 35s, thats what I'm doin when I can afford it. I went with the rubi, stock its good enough to do just about anything, and i don't plan i doing anything wild with this jeep, and least not for a long time. If you want to have a great offroad mmachine without adding in a ton of new compnents you can't go wrong with the rubi. everyone has their own opinion, if you feel like ur gonna second guess or regret gettin the rubi later i would just do it, you really can't buy a more capable vehicle straight off the lot

Jeepin Dad

The manual definetly has more pep than the auto. 35's with the manual should be livable, I'm running 33's with 4.10s and still don't use 1st on the street and don't have any trouble maintaining highway speeds in 6th.

jeeperjkj

I ordered mine with 6spd and tow package for $26,141.50 + TTL.

I think you can do better, but it'll depend on which (if any) options that one has on it.

Bram

2009 MODEL YEAR
JEEP WRANGLER
UNLIMITED RUBICON
4X4

Base Price: $ 31,465
JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED RUBICON 4X4

Engine:3.8-Liter V6 SMPI Engine
Transmission:4-Speed Automatic Transmission
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Customer Preferred Package 24R
Dual Top Group $ 1,585
Freedom Top(TM) 3-Piece Modular Hard
Top
Rear Window Wiper/Washer
Rear Window Defroster
Trailer Tow Group $ 270
Hitch Receiver
Trailer Sway Damping
Trailer Tow with 4-Pin Connector Wiring
Smoker's Group $ 30
4-Speed Automatic Transmission $ 825
Automatic Transmission Skid Plate
GCD
DESTINATION CHARGE $ 700
TOTAL PRICE:* $ 34,875
Now asking 29,900

Mark Doiron

If you want those 4.10s (good plan for you since you want to keep costs down), the Rubicon is probably a must. I don't believe that 4.10s are available in the other models any longer. I have an 07 with the tow package in back then you did get the 4.10s (with the tow pkg). I'm running 33s and find that I must shift to lower gears on Interstate travel on some grades. I went to Moab a couple weeks ago with TORN (07 two-door Rubi) and we noted quite a bit of difference in gas mileage and use of gears between his two-door and my four-door. Mine was consistently getting better mileage at higher gears. For me, if I ever go to 35s, I'm considering regearing a part of the package. But, our Jeeps sitting next to High Roller's (who also ran with us in Moab) with 37s sure did look mighty puny. LOL.

saltman

Should be able to get that one for 27.5.

Bram

What about those with automatic's better or worse? I've never owned an auto in any of my Jeeps, but I seem to remember a buddy of mine that had an auto with 3.73's and 33 inch tires and had no problem.

Detyellow2008

I went with the auto for one reason and one reason only...Lifetime Powertrain Warranty...otherwise would have gone with the stick.

jeeperjkj

Ok, so you've got Auto and Dual tops in there. That doesn't look too bad. If that includes TT&L, then I'd say jump on it. If not, you're on the bubble. If you think you can get 'em down a bit more, then try. You could try to get them to throw in some incentives for parts/service/etc.

It's definitely worth considering. If you're dying for it, then jump in.