I've been trying to search for info regarding the different rubicon models. Mainly the differences between the TJ and JK ones. Does either take to or handle lifts better and does the TJ models have the same transfer case? I'm looking to buy a used Rubicon and if the TJ models are basically the same as the JK's save a few maybe minor differences I'd rather save the money to put towards mods. Been trying g to reasearch on my own before posting. If someone can point me to a thread, write up or article I'd appreciate it. I found some info on wikipedia but I just want to know if there is any year or configuration to avoid. I want to eventually run 37's with some mild offroading.

Thanks.

 

bump bump and away, no one can point me to the info or has an opinion?

 

They are radically different and you are on a JK site. Everyone here is going to say the JK is better.


The TJ rubicon has limited slip when in 2WD. The JK does not.
The JK rubicon has an electronic sway bar disconnect.


The rest is just the difference in a TJ and a JK. The JK is much larger and cheaper made. The TJ is more manueverable and lacks many creature comforts the JK has. The JK is much cheaper and less invasive to lift though the parts are more expensive for no reason.


If it's for offroad use mainly get the TJ. If it's a DD get the TJ. That's my IMO.

I've had bad luck with my two JKs. I'm cynical and could care less about the creature comforts. My JK has less than 500 on-road miles on it. It also has 68 days and counting of days sitting at the dealer for repair on an 2009. My 2007 was lemoned. My other vehicle is a 2006 LJ rubicon.

 

And I've had my JK for just over two years and I've had no issues. My Rubicon is a daily driver, a camper and a trail runner and we absolutely love it.

I also know that when the TJ first came out it was as much maligned by the old school folks who hated it. Also as of 2007 I was still reading about problems that people just shrugged and said, "it's a Jeep thing". Every model has had their issues.

Now that aside, I thought I read that it was less expensive to lift a JK. (as stated above) If I remember correctly to lift a JK 3 inches was far less than the cost to lift a TJ the same height. However the after market parts for most things on a JK were still fairly pricey compared to previous models. I know I saw something recently about someone annoyed at the high cost of aftermarket bumpers and such for JK's, even after 2+ years of production.

I guess my suggestion would be maybe price out some of the model specific parts you know you'd want and see how they compare. Is the desirable bumper for a TJ more or less than the JK version? What is it going to cost you to do the lift?

I don't think you'd be unhappy with either model.

Just my two pebbles worth.

Beel

P.S. I don't think there is anything wrong with "creature comforts" either. Mine is bare-bones except for being a Rubicon. It gets me anyplace I could possibly want to go, and I don't have to feel like I've just spent spent 5 hours on a cheap carnival ride when I get there.

 

Thanks guys, I appreciate the info. I'm pretty much sold on a JK but I just wanted to cover my bases. I'm a former 77 CJ-7 owner coming back after being tired of the fast car scene. Getting old I guess.