Earlier this year, I bought a '02 KJ Limited because I thought it was a great deal for a really well maintained and good looking Jeep. When I mentioned to the seller that I would probably mod this KJ (he did some mods) for off-road use, I was told this forum was a good place to find all the information and products I would need. He was right.

From many of the useful topics I've read here, I have begun to wonder if in fact I bought the right Jeep? I don't have to tell many of you what concerns there are, but from my view point, there seems to be a lack of quailty after-market accessories for the KJ. Not to mention what I've also learned here, is that many of the mechanical features on the KJ are, well, just crap. The 30A front diff, to mention one. I read where some got into a group deal and were able to purchase an aluminum collar, which now seems to be unavailable? Aside from this and other issues, I've been convinced that the Frankenlift is the way to go, or at least OME parts combined, to make a great lift. Cool... Then I read how many "other related" issues people have with this (and other) lifts. I know stuff is going to break when you abuse it off-road, but from what I gather, the mechanical functions of the KJ increase your odds.

So here's where I'm at... First let me include, I agree, the KJ is a Jeep - And I've seen some really cool looking KJ's here. I just don't know if it's the right Jeep for me? My plan was to utilize my KJ as a DD (as needed, especially during the winter months), and play with it off-road. Now I'm not so sure? Again, for the reasons I mentioned above, and then some. I am now considering a Wrangler. The Rubicon seems to be the best built Jeep for DD, and playing hard off-road. Plus I can find everything I could need in aftermarket parts. Matter of fact, it appears the toughest decisions Wrangler owner's face regarding aftermarket parts, is which brand, and not why doesn't anyone make this for my Jeep?

Okay, the reason for my post is that I am hoping both experienced KJ owner's and Wrangler owner's (owning both models would be too much to ask for) will enlighten me. I am not interested in reading flame wars over models - I just want to either be convinced the KJ can be my Jeep, or maybe the Wrangler is what I should be driving. Again, my posting is not intended to open a can of worms. And the reason I posted in this forum, is because if anyone is going to suggest the Wrangler, I would then ask, Rubicon? Or can the less expensive Wrangler models work great for my needs too?

Thanks in advance for those who will take the time to enlighten me, one way or another.

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Illegitima Non carborundom!

pros and cons to everything. If you like the KJ keep it, if its not what you want sell it and buy a wrangler.

KJ has 4 doors and AC, much quieter on the road than a Wrangler and tends to ride a bit better than a wrangler on-road.

Wrangler has more aftermarket parts, is a bit more capable offroad when stock.

Rubicon vs other wrangler - Rubicon gives you lockers from the factory, but at a price. You can add lockers to any wrangler and might want to go that way if you want to upgrade the axles anyway. The stock Wrangler comes with a similarly weak Dana 30 axle up front, but at least its not IFS.

Bottom line is, how deep are your pockets and what do you want to do with it.

Based on the DD comment, I'd keep the KJ stock and go out and buy a TJ or YJ and Mod it to your hearts content

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2005 CRD "Ol' Blue"
Red Ryder carbine-action, two hundred shot range model air rifle with a compass in the stock and this thing which tells time.
My build page- RL Komodo Rear and TJM Front Bumper, armored, lifted, JBA Steel D30, 4.10s and ARB air lockers.

I like the KJ, but as I stated, there are many concerns which now have me asking if I made the right choice.

Two Jeeps will not be an option. We're already paying insurance on two cars and two bikes.

I'm not concerned with road noise, AC or 4 doors. This Jeep is my 4x4 DD and a toy. When the wife and I go out, we're generally in her new car.

Well, the way I see it, I might be money ahead with the Rubicon over the X model.

Thanks for your input. Much appreciated.

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Illegitima Non carborundom!

Once in a while I think I should have bought a TJ instead of the KJ, but when I was on the lot they did not have any standard transmission TJs left. This was the last year of the TJ and the JKs were due out in a couple of months. A friend had an old CJ5 that I have great memories of, which I why I still want a TJ. What made the KJ more attractive was;

1: I lucked out and found a manual with only 35 kms on it, apparently nobody could drive manual, so nobody ever road tested it.
2: The JK was initially only coming out with the soft top / hard top option and I wanted the sectional top due to storage issues.
3: Security was a big factor, I had to be able to lock up expensive equipment that would be very hard to replace quickly. The KJ won hands down for that. As much as I like TJs, you just have to take the door off from the outside and you are inside.
4: I was not doing any hard off roading, just exploring and learning more about something that I have been interested in for some time. Maybe I go further, maybe I don't.
5: If / when I out grew the KJs abilities, it would become more of a daily driver, hauler, fun ride Jeep. I would track down a used TJ and build what I really wanted, that Jeep still does not provide. KJ for work / light off-roading, TJ for more aggressive off-roading if I ever reach that point in my life. As a daily driver / friend hauler the KJ easily wins, off-road the TJ wins.

Somedays I see a TJ going down the road, top off, and I think what if... but then I rememeber why I bought my KJ, shift gears and life is great again.

Sorry for being long winded, but you struck a chord with the KJ / TJ aurgument that I occasionally struggle with. Most of the time the KJ wins.

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2006 KJ Sport, Dark Khaki, 3.7 Litre
NSG370 6 Speed Manual Transmission | NP241J Command Trac HD Part Time 4wd | 3.55s | 245/70R16 Firestone Destination A/Ts | Mopar Tow Hooks & Skids | Powerslot Brake Rotors | ARB Rear Differential Cover

I would keep the KJ anyways....I have had CJs, Cherokees etc etc and I like the KJ for a DD over them anyday, better mileage, better ride, nicer to cruise in etc.
As far as what you read on here, seems like the ones who have problems is all you hear from, always going on that this or that happened or broke. For me, mines been great , no real problems , over 109,000 miles and zero on repairs really.
Guess it comes down to if you want to drive a Red Rubicon with a bunch of bolt ons like everyone else or build up a great little DD and trail rig

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MUDD'S MOTORSPORT'S We do IFS lift installs ,
03 OVERLAND EDITION /Kilby-Skidrow-Mopar-4XGuard skids/ 2.5 inch TOTAL CONTROL JBA coilovers -JBA Arms/MOABS-31 FALKEN WILDPEAK AT3W / 4.10's etc, 04 Kilimanjaro Edition loaded, plus 05 KJ limited

You could also get a Jeep Cherokee, solid front axle and there are lots of aftermarket parts available. Same friend with the CJ5 had one of these and it was almost as good off-road. Just a thought...

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2006 KJ Sport, Dark Khaki, 3.7 Litre
NSG370 6 Speed Manual Transmission | NP241J Command Trac HD Part Time 4wd | 3.55s | 245/70R16 Firestone Destination A/Ts | Mopar Tow Hooks & Skids | Powerslot Brake Rotors | ARB Rear Differential Cover

I to have thought about going back to a wrangler, But I do prefer my Kj in the fact that I can lock things up in it and I ice fish so a wrangler wouldn"t do the job. Plus I would rather build up my Kj then buy something off the lot.

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One Life - Live It

You've brought up some good (and obvious, regarding reading only the negative issues and such) points.


Too funny. Although... More than one person (with a manual tranny Jeep) has told me to buy automatic then I won't burn out as many clutches as they claim to.

Totally understood.

Thanks to both of you. Again, your comments are much appreciated.

(UpDate; wow, 71 views and only 3 replies. Oh I'm not complaining, but I do find that interesting, to say the least).

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Illegitima Non carborundom!

it just depends on what you wish to use your jeep for. i move to and from school with mine. so the 4 doors and lots of storage inside really pay off. I also enjoy the offroading i am able to do. granted i cant do the trails a 5in long arm rubicon can i still hang in there with lifted wranglers and cherokee's. I'm also working on my private pilots license so when i have my $400 head set i like it to be locked up with more than zippers to keep people out. plus the better fuel economy and much greater towing ability makes the KJ much much more suitable for me than a wrangler. just depends what your asking of your jeep.

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2006 Renegade. Completely stock.

I think another thing to think about is: "What type of off road use am I going to do?" If you want to do a lot of heavy duty stuff go with the Rubi. General trail with some ruff stuff thrown in go with the KJ.

Terry

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2011 Ford F-150 XLT 4X4

Don't forget about the towing you can do with the Kj over the wrangler, It was one reason I traded my Wrangler for the KJ.

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2004 sport 3.7
OME coil lift.
Clevis lift.
Mopar skids.
5-speed manual.
235 70 17 Firestone destination AT'S on stock rims.
Gen 4.5 a-arms

i owuld def go with an older TJ or even a YJ and do a spring flip on it as for an ORV. and just keep the KJ for the DD use. mod it some, if you want, with whatever you feel thats nessecary. just my .02c

Yeah regardless of which Jeep I am driving, I'm in the midwest, iow, not much rock crawling around these parts. Basically trails and mud.

All of you, now have me thinking I might just as well continue with my plans to mod this KJ the best I can. Heck, I'm already having fun with it on the trails. And fwiw, I do realize that if I'm going to play, I better be ready to repair. Or something like that.

Besides, it will be easier to explain the repair cost(s) to the MRS., down the road than to suggest I now want a $30K new Jeep.

Thanks for all the suggestions.

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Illegitima Non carborundom!

Funny you should mention the Private Pilots License. That was actually the deciding factor for me buying the KJ over waiting for a JK. I am working on my Commercial Pilots License with Multi and IFR. I have to pack around a lot of aviation junk with me that I cannot afford to loose. Forget replacing equipment, it is all the work I put into notes, logbook, general information accumulation. I fly with a couple of guys, one has a CJ7 and one has a TJ. They have to pack in everything and dump it in an office or safekeeping. I bought one of those heavy duty Jeep plastic storage organizers that can double as a trunk lid. I just grab what I need and go. Good luck with the flying. Maybe we should look at starting a LOST in the Air chapter.

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2006 KJ Sport, Dark Khaki, 3.7 Litre
NSG370 6 Speed Manual Transmission | NP241J Command Trac HD Part Time 4wd | 3.55s | 245/70R16 Firestone Destination A/Ts | Mopar Tow Hooks & Skids | Powerslot Brake Rotors | ARB Rear Differential Cover

I bought my kj for several reasons. At the time i needed something cheap $15k or less, 4wd, a/c, auto, and less than 45kmiles. Nothing else I could really get for the money, plus it was jeep certified with an 8/80 powertrain warranty. I considered an xterra or 4runner but they were a bit more and for some reason insurance was more. Wish the KJ was a bit bigger inside for long trips, camping, etc but i make it work. Sometimes i wish i had a wrangler but it's not really practical for me. It would have to be a hard top. I live in a condo and would have no where to put it unless i took it off and left it at my parents house. Not enough room for my dog etc. Main reason was because i couldn't find one for less than $18k that met my criteria.

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02' Sport- SOLD

07' Dodge Ram Quad Cab 1500 4x4
Yeah it's got a hemi!

I have rekindled the aurgument that will never die, auto vs. manual. Let the flames begin!

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2006 KJ Sport, Dark Khaki, 3.7 Litre
NSG370 6 Speed Manual Transmission | NP241J Command Trac HD Part Time 4wd | 3.55s | 245/70R16 Firestone Destination A/Ts | Mopar Tow Hooks & Skids | Powerslot Brake Rotors | ARB Rear Differential Cover

Well, I have had a CJ, 2 TJs, and 2 YJs and I like the KJ best for a DD.

I really really REALLY regret selling my last 98 TJ which was paid for and I could have a sick off road rig and still be paying off the KJ, which I still am anyway. So I could have had the best of both worlds.

Anyway, from the sounds of it you aren't going to be getting into anything too hard core for the KJ to handle. There are weak links in the KJ but for the vast majority of KJ drivers, those weak links are plenty strong enough for the abuse they will hand out. Jeep parts break, any and all models and I personally don't feel the front end in the KJ is a weak link for the majority of us here on LOST and out in the world. It does its job pretty well, but if you wanted to get into more intense off road situations, you probably never would have bought the KJ to start with.

Decide how far you want to push your jeep and then decide if the KJ will be able to handle it. My guess is it will be and you will be glad you kept it.

If a few years down the road after you have modded your KJ and feel an itch for more hardcore off roading, get a wrangler and build the crap out of it. At least by then you will maybe own the KJ outright (if you don't already) and you can use it towards a nice down payment towards a brad new JK Rubicon. Win Win.

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My Jeep Build ----> Big Black

There are a few Jeeps that would meet my needs. what follows them is why I like the KJ better

ZJ - build quality sucks, doesn't feel as planted on the road
WJ - Ditto on the planted feel, but build quality is better than the ZJs, not quite as good as the KJ's.
XJ - Hate getting in them. I always smack my head into the roof...even on the ones with 5" lift and 33s
JK Unlimited - Yeah, uh...I don't wanna pay 30 large, and have a crap breakover angle
FSJ - I think that one speaks for itself. Nice rigs, but I don't want to DD one.

I need something that CAN double as a people mover, I WANT something that handles well on the road, and I also prefer something that can tow a decent sized trailer. If I didn't want to go wheelin, I'd be in another 2wd '96-01 Exploder 5.0

KJ is it.

Very simple answer: DO BOTH! I love the KJ and it can do much more off-road than what people give it credit for. The KJ is far from Crap and overall is a well-built Jeep. Yes, the IFS has some restrictions, but that’s what you get when you buy a KJ instead of a Wrangler. The KJ is awesome on road, and even better with the Frankenlift. I’m in the process of building a 4 door JK. You can get a used 4 door JK for $17,000. The 4 door JK’s ride pretty nice and are awesome on the trail straight from the factory. The aftermarket world has a plethora of gear available to meet all your needs. In my opinion, keep your KJ, cause it ain’t worth much to trade in or sell. JK’s are getting cheaper everyday. Something as old as your 02 KJ should have liability insurance anyway.

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2015 Ram Ecodiesel/Big Horn/4x4/Quad Cab
2016 Arctic Fox 22G/Onboard 2500 LP Cummins Onan Generator/160 Watt Solar Panel

I took the road less traveled. Now I'm LOST.

That is the biggest crock of crap I've ever read in my entire life.

Even my $50 Trooper had comprehensive coverage. OH WOW, an '02??? it's six whole years old! It's time to send it to the scrapyard! My lowdy lowdy, I don't know how you common folk drive cars with 6 digit mileage! It must be MAHTY unnerving knowin your vehicle will only last another 100,000 miles (minimum)


Stupid commoners not knowing that you should only have liability on something THAT OLD!!! What idiots! Why would you want to drive a $10,000 vehicle, and chance totaling it, and run the risk of getting ANOTHER CAR! I mean, if you get ANOTHER CAR you'll only be paying for MORE insurance! Bet you'll learn next time, when your car is replaced after only paying your deductible, that you shouldn't pay for ANYTHING over what's required by law!

Man, by your logic...my mom's 71 Olds Cutlass shouldn't be insured at all! After all, it IS just an old piece of junk collecting dust, and it's not worth insuring! (neverminding the fact that it's probably worth twice what my KJ is)