2002 Jeep Wrangler TJ-X

Ever since someone ran a red light and totaled out my Bronco, I've been looking for a new project daily driver. I thought hard about getting another Bronco, but after having that one for over 20 years, it just wouldn't be the same. I ran across this 2002 TJ and I rather liked it. The price was wasn't bad. The previous owner had done some modification to it, and it looked fairly well taken care of. It's old enough that it is pretty straight forward to work on, and just has limited computers in it. So I figured why not!

The evolution

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Factory Options
  • The original window sticker was still with it, so I know all the original options it had, which includes:
Along with that, it still had the original window sticker and owners manuals!
What Came With It
Some of the extra things it came with included:
  • A lift
  • Aftermarket bumpers
  • A winch
  • Cold air intake
  • Seat covers
  • Aftermarket stereo
  • Rock rails
  • Tuffy center console
  • Bedrug carpeting
  • Full size cover
Factory
As I bought it
Where it is today
Engine
4.0 liter straight 6
4.0 liter straight 6
4.0 liter straight 6
Transmission



Transfer Case



Rear Differential
Dana 35
Dana 35
Dana 35
Rear Axle Ratio
3.07 - Open


Front Differntial
Dana 30
Dana 30
Dana 30
Front Axle Ratio
3.07 - Open


Factory Options
Windows - Deep Tint Sunscreen Door - Full Metal Air Conditioning Add-A-Trunk
Windows - Deep Tint SunscreenDoor - Full MetalAir Conditioning
Windows - Deep Tint SunscreenDoor - Full MetalAir Conditioning
Emissions
US 50 States
US 50 States
US 50 States
Radio
AM/FM Compact Disc


Top
MOPAR Soft Top
Smitttybilt Soft Top

Lift
None
4" Suspension Lift





















What I Figured Out

The previous owners have done several modifications to the TJ, but I need to make sure they are all proper. So I've been looking it over and so far have figured out the following:
  • The lift that was put on is a 4" suspension lift

What Issues I've Found

As I've been driving the TJ around I've been seeing what I can find that is wrong with it. So this going to be my list of things to work on. I've split it up into three different categories. Safety issues are things that need to be fixed as soon as possible. Mechanical issues are things that need to be fixed to keep it running right. Convenience items are things that will make driving it that much better. As I find them, I'll keep adding them to the list, but right now it is:
Safety Issues
  • The rear swing out tire carrier does not sit correct and is difficult to latch
  • Interior lights do not work (not the dash ones, they are fine, rather the lights when a door is open)
  • Airbag light is on
  • It would start in gear without the clutch being pushed in
  • Side mirrors are mounted on the A Pillars, so for doors off driving, rather than on the doors. So they have very poor visibility
  • Track bar bolts wrong size and well worn
Mechanical Issues
  • Winch does not appear to work
  • Loud clunking / rattle coming from back
  • Engine running a cold air intake, so not all that safe for water crossings
  • I have a copy of the CarFax and the dealers work done to it, but there is a fair amount of maintenance that isn't listed so unsure when or if it has been done
  • O2 sensors not all working
Convenience Items
  • The cup holders are missing the rubber inserts, and any cup in them interfers with the shifter
  • It needs a cell phone mount
  • The radio is an AM/FM/Bluetooth, but I would like one running Android
  • I'd like to add a steering box skid plate...it isn't overly protected right now