WikiPortallus:

The Wrangler (also known as the YJ, TJ, JK, and J8 (Military version) as explained below) is a compact four-wheel drive in the sport utility vehicle segment produced by American automaker Chrysler under its Jeep marque. It is a successor to the famous World War II 'Jeep' vehicle by way of the Willys civilian Jeep (CJ) in the 1950s, later produced by Kaiser-Jeep and by American Motors (AMC). The Wrangler debuted in 1987, was revised in 1997 and again in 2007, and is still popular today. A defining feature of all Wranglers is that they continue to use live axles both front and rear like their forefather, the CJ.

Instead, 1987 to 1995 models were sold as YJ, 1997 to 2006 models were TJ's with a subcategory from 2004 to 2006 of "Unlimited" Wranglers known as LJ's, and from 2007 to today as the JK. The model designations are used throughout the world in the Jeep enthusiast community to differentiate which model is being spoken of instead of using the more ambiguous term "Wrangler" and help identify specifics about Wranglers.

YJ (1987–1995)

The Jeep YJ, sold as the Wrangler, replaced the much-loved but slower-selling Jeep CJ in 1987 and was built in Brampton, Ontario, Canada until the plant closed on April 23, 1992 after which production was moved to Toledo, Ohio using the same plant that produced Willy Jeeps back in WWII. It was a new design with a wider wheelbase, slightly less ground clearance, and more comfort. The YJ also had a leaf spring suspension similar to that of the CJ, however, the springs were wider, and the YJs sported trackbars and swaybars for added handling. Despite the new grill, the body is very similar to the CJ7's, and it is interchangeable with some minor modifications. The YJ also was given a larger windshield over the CJ. The YJs are easily identifiable due to the rectangular headlights, disliked by some Jeep aficionados, and the fact that the wiper blades rest on the windshield giving this version a distinctive look. The blades rested on the windshield due to the now wider arc of the blades to clean the now larger windshield. These two changes were later removed when the TJ changes came about in 1996. 632,231 YJs were built through model year 1995, though YJs were still produced into mid '96 bringing the total production number to 685,071 units.

The YJ used a 2.5 L AMC 150 I4 or optional 4.2 L AMC 258 I6 until 1991. That year, a fuel injected 180 hp (134 kW) 4.0 L AMC 242 variant replaced the 112 hp (84 kW) 4.2 L 258 CID straight-6. The NP207 transfer case was used only in 1987 and replaced by the NP231

In 1994, the slave cylinder on manual transmissions was moved outside of the transmission's bellhousing to allow for easier replacement, and in 1995 larger U-joints were used [front axle U-joints(297x) and rear pinion U-joint(1330)]. For the 1992 model year, the YJ switched over to an electronic speedometer outmoding the cable speedos on older YJs. 1995 was the only year to have a fully galvanized frame and body.

YJs produced in early 1996 were sold as 1995 model years, but featured a few new parts not seen on any earlier YJ. This included: the new TJ bumpstops on the hood (rubber boots vs the traditional U-bars), reinforced tailgate hinges, and it has been said that some even had rear TJ bumpers. Some lucky ones also got the newly tuned I6 that was tuned to run quieter in preparation for the TJ.

YJ Wrangler Islander

From 1988 until 1992, Jeep produced an options package known as the "Islander". Several colors were offered, such as Bright Red, Sunset Yellow, Teal, and White, and both engines were offered. Features of the package are as follows:

YJ Wrangler Renegade

From 1991 until 1994, Jeep produced an options package on the YJ Wrangler listed as the "Renegade Decor Group". Initially, all Renegades were White, Black or Red. In 1992, Blue was added, in 1993, Bronze. The Renegade Decor Group was a $4,266.00 option over a base Wrangler in 1991 and included special alloy wheels, exclusive body flares, along with many other features.

A hardtop was a $923.00 option and came with a mandatory rear window defroster at a $164.00 premium. Renegades typically had the tilt steering wheel ($130.00) and an AM/FM/cassette stereo radio ($264.00). A column shift automatic was also an available option, but it was not popular. While a base Wrangler with the inline-6 went for $12,356.00, the Renegade package pushed that price up to $18,588.00 in 1991.

These vehicles were sent as optioned Wranglers to Auto Style Cars in Detroit, where the Renegade Decor Package was installed, then shipped back to Jeep for delivery to dealers. Renegades all have a small sticker on the driver's side door, right above the latch denoting the visit to ASC.

At the price premium over a standard Wrangler, sales were fairly limited, so finding one today is a semi-rare occurrence. The price, plus what hardcore Jeepers felt were "funny looking plastic fenders" limited the sales. Although having nearly identical off-road capabilities, these Jeep were typically used as "beach cruisers" because of both their price and rarity, as well as the fact that their over sized flares and body cladding were not designed for the abuse that tree branches and over-sized tires can deal out.

Trim Levels

TJ (1997–2006)

The YJ gave way to the TJ for the 1997 model year (note that there was no 1996 model year; the 1997 TJ was released in Spring 1996). This updated Wrangler featured a coil-spring suspension (based on that of the Jeep Grand Cherokee) for better ride and handling, and a return to the classic CJ's round headlamps. The engine is the same 4.0 L AMC 242 Straight-6 used in the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. A 2.5 L AMC 150 Inline-4 motor was available on entry-level models until 2003 when the 2.4 L DOHC Neon 4-cylinder engine replaced it.

A right hand drive version of the TJ was available for export markets, and was also offered for sale to US rural route postal carriers. The version offered to US postal carriers was only available with an automatic transmission.

In 1999 the fuel tank became standard at 19 U.S. gallons (72 L; 16 imp gal) capacity. There were some changes that occurred between 2002 and 2003 years that made some parts difficult to directly swap back and forth, but also made it easy to identify certain years. From 1997 to 2002 the side door mirrors were black metal framed mirrors and from 2003 to 2006 they were plastic molded mirrors. The fit of hard and soft tops is slightly different, and the fabric and colors available changed from 2002 to 2003. In 2003 the 3-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a 4-speed automatic with overdrive. It has the standard option of turning off overdrive by dash switch if desired. The radio bezels went from a rectangle in 2002 to a rounded edged rectangle in 2003 so swapping these required the console to swap as well or be modified.The sound bar inside changed to sound pods. The interior seats also changed design from 2002 to 2003 going from a rounder model to one with a distinct separation between back and headrest areas. There are other changes as well, too many to list here.

The standard skid plate was also revised for 2003 to make room for the Rubicon's bigger NV241OR transfer case. The change from the 30/32RH to the 42RLE also gained an additional skid plate.

TJ Wrangler Rubicon

The Wrangler Rubicon (named for the famed Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains) was introduced in 2003. It featured front and rear Dana 44 axles with built-in air-actuated locking differentials, 4:1 low-range NV241OR transfer case, 4.10:1 differential gears, diamond plate rocker panels, 16-inch alloy wheels, and Goodyear MTR P245/75-R16 tires. 2003 to 2004 featured a standard NV3500 five-speed manual transmission, which changed in 2005 to the NSG370, a Mercedes-sourced six-speed. The optional 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission was available from 2003 to 2006.

A limited run of 1,001 Wrangler Rubicon "Tomb Raider" models were produced in 2003 to promote the Tomb Raider sequel, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life. Along with the standard Rubicon fare, it also included exterior features such as 16 inch Alcoa forged aluminum wheels, Tomb Raider badging, and Mopar accessories including a light bar, riveted fender flares, tubular grille guard, diamond-plated bumper guard, etc. Interior features included Dark Slate fabric seats with red accent stitching down the center, silver surround instrument panel bezel, red seatbelts and a Tomb Raider badge with serial number. To match the vehicle in the film, it was offered in Bright Silver.

TJ Wrangler Unlimited

In 2004, Jeep introduced the Wrangler Unlimited with a 10 inch (~25.4 cm) longer wheelbase (LWB), a Dana 44 rear axle with a 3:73 gear ratio and the Command-Trac 231 transfer case; this model is also known by its unofficial designation of LJ. In 2005, Jeep released the Rubicon Unlimited, which has the wheelbase of the Unlimited and the off-road features of the Rubicon such as front and rear Dana 44 axles with locking differentials, diamond plate rocker guards, an NVG241OR transfer case with a 4.0:1 low range, 245/75R16 Goodyear MT/R tires, a six-speed manual transmission and other comfort and convenience options not offered on other Wranglers. This model of the Jeep Wrangler has nearly double the towing capacity than its shorter wheelbase sibling due to increased wheelbase.

In 2005, Paramount released the movie Sahara which featured a Jeep Wrangler. As a way to build off the success of the movie, Jeep released a limited production “Sahara Edition” Unlimited Rubicon.² Only 1000 were produced and each one is numbered. All of them are visually identical, but some were offered in a manual and others an automatic. They are all Light Khaki, Unlimiteds. Trim differences over the standard Rubicon include chrome grill, color matched flares, khaki hard top or soft top as well as optional dual khaki tops, Graphite Moab wheels, a Sahara spare tire cover, upgraded two tone premium seats, Sahara decals, tail light guards, and a numbered dash badge.

JK (2007–Present)

The 2007 model year brought the complete redesign of the Jeep Wrangler, in both two and four-door models. The TJ platform was replaced by a new JK platform. This next-generation Wrangler was significantly larger than the existing model, with a 2 inch (50.8 mm) longer wheelbase and 3.4 inch (86.4 mm) wider track, though the two door model is actually 2.5 inches (64 mm) shorter in the overall length than the TJ, allowing for better approach and departure angles. With a larger available standard tire size of 32 in, breakover angle is unchanged.

The Wrangler X is available with factory installed right-hand drive. This model is targeted at mail carriers. Rural mail boxes in the United States are on the right-hand side of the road, and are serviced with the carrier behind the wheel. This may also be useful for carriers who wish to get out of their vehicle without the risk of getting hit by traffic. For the 2007 and 2008 model years, the short-wheelbase Wrangler was the right-hand drive Jeep. For the 2009 model year, the right-hand drive Wrangler will be replaced by the right-hand drive Wrangler Unlimited.

A 3.8 L EGH V6 with a displacement of 230.5 cubic inches (3778 cc)³ producing 205 hp (153 kW) and 240 ft·lbf (325 N·m) is the base engine, replacing the venerable AMC 242 straight-6. The 2.8 L VM Motori turbodiesel straight-4 producing 174 hp (130 kW) and 302 ft·lbf (410 N·m) used in the Liberty is offered as options outside of U.S, as it does not satisfy U.S. emission control standards for 2007.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed automatic transmission offered as an option. The lower two levels have the Jeep Command-Trac NV241 part-time two-speed transfer case with an optional Trac-Loc limited-slip differential, while the Rubicon uses a Rock-Trac version of the NV241 with a 4:1 low range. Electronic locking front- and rear-axles called Tru-loc are also standard on Rubicon models. (rear locker optional on X models)

The JK runs almost all vehicle functions other than steering under computer software control. Engine, transmission, and to some extent braking are computer controlled, as are lights and auxiliary systems. This is a first for the Wrangler. As of mid-2007, there have been three safety recalls for software fixes.⁴

A Sunrider convertible soft top is standard equipment. Also available on the JK model is an optional 3-piece modular hardtop. Although the doors can still be removed in traditional Wrangler fashion, power windows and remote power door locks will be offered for the first time in a Wrangler. Another first is an available navigation system. This is the first generation of the Jeep Wrangler to have a change in the tail lamps.

The 2009 model added standard Hill Start Assist (HSA) to prevent rollback on graded surfaces. Trailer Sway Control (TSC) also is available to monitor vehicle movement relative to the intended path and activates the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) if the trailer begins to sway outside set parameters. Additionally, ULEV II emissions replace LEV II emissions on manual transmission equipped vehicles.⁵

2010 Facelift

The 2010 model added a new easier to fold/open soft top, standard UConnect on models equipped with the MyGig radio, and new sun visors that offer more coverage than the old models, as well as integrated vanity mirrors. In addition, Jeep Wrangler models get new silver grilles.

JK Trim Levels

The Standard Wranglers are available in five trim packages. The Unlimited Wranglers are available in three trim packages. Most package can be ordered with either hard or soft top, full or half doors(08 unlimited only).

The X model is available for both, 2 and 4 door versions. It is the "bare bones" wrangler that can be customized to a buyers specifications adding such options as air conditioning and other accessories.

The Rocky Mountain Edition is a special edition of the barebone "X" model with mainly visual enhancement such as 32" tires, body coloured fenders, black tubular sidestep and a 6 CD changer in dash. It is only available in Canada for now.

The X-S model feature a few commodities such as 32" tires, fog lights, cruise control, driver’s seat height adjuster, . It can be customized to a buyers specifications adding such options as air conditioning, power windows and locks soft or hard top, rear LSD or locker, electronic sway bar disconnect, and other accessories.

The Sahara model is the "luxury" model offering accessories such as body coloured fenders, "Yes Essentials" seats (in late 2007-2008), power windows and locks, a 7 speaker infinity sound system with subwoofer, among others.

The Rubicon package is the dedicated "Offroad" package. Standard components of the Rubicon package include Front and rear generation II Dana 44 axles, front and rear electronic lockers, rock rails, Electronic sway bar disconnect, 32 spline rear axle with an 8.8 inch ring gear, 4:1 Rock-Trac transfer case, 4.10 axle gearing,"Yes Essentials" seats (2008), 7 speaker infinity sound system, and any other available option can be added.

JK Wrangler Unlimited

The JK series 2007 Wrangler Unlimited was unveiled at the New York Auto Show on April 12, 2006. It is stretched even more than the TJ model, with four doors (becoming the last-remaining 2-door SUV in North America to gain a four-door option) and 20.6 inches (523 mm) added to the JK Wrangler's 95.4-inch (2423 mm) wheelbase. It is priced near $21,000.

Unlimited has the same engine and transmission choices as a short-wheelbase JK. X and Sahara trims offer an option of 2x4 rear wheel drive in the U.S.A. It is the only four door convertible available in the U.S., since the Hummer H1 with optional rag-top is no longer sold as a civilian vehicle.

The Unlimited offers more options and equipment than any previous Wrangler model, including standard electronic stability program and optional seat-mounted side airbags, remote keyless entry, navigation system, and Sirius Satellite Radio.⁶ The navigation and satellite systems are a part of the MyGig Entertainment system that also has a hard drive allowing for the storage of MP3 music files and pictures.⁷

On September 13, 2007, at the Defence Systems & Equipment International trade show, Chrysler LLC unveiled a Wrangler Unlimited version designed for military use dubbed the J8. The unarmored Jeep J8 is equipped with larger brakes, axles and suspension components than the civilian version and has a payload capacity of 1,339 kg (2,952 lb). The J8 also differs from the civilian model by utilizing heavy-duty rear leaf springs for carrying heavier payloads. The Jeep J8 is powered by a 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 118 kW (158 hp) and 400 N·m (295 lbf·ft) of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500 kg (7,700 lb). The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted snorkel that enables the J8 to wade in water up to 762 mm (30 in) deep and tackle sandstorm conditions for up to five hours. Available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle, it may be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right-hand- or left-hand-drive.⁸ Targeted for use by the militaries in overseas markets, the J8 is not available in the United States because it will not meet U.S. emissions requirements. The J8 will be produced in Egypt.⁹

Total American sales

Recognition

The Jeep Wrangler received the "Models to Best Hold Its Value" recognition by Kelley Blue Book in 1998, 1999, and 2003.¹⁴

The 2008 edition of Forbes Autos lists the four-wheel-drive convertible Jeep Wrangler at number four among the top ten vehicles with the highest resale value.¹⁵

In May 2009, Business Week magazine named the Wrangler "One of the Most Iconic Cars of the Last 20 Years." ¹⁶

Electric Wrangler

In September 2008, Chrysler Vice Chairman Tom LaSorda unveiled a range-extended electric 4-door Wrangler along with similarly engineered Town and Country minivan and a purely electric sports car. The Wrangler would have a 40-mile (64 km) range before a gas engine starts and begins supplying additional electricity.¹⁷ However, in November 2009 Fiat SpA disbanded Chrysler's ENVI electric car division and dropped these models from future product plans.¹⁸

References

^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f Jeep (2000). "XJ 4.0L sec9 page115" (Print and pdf). Service Manual 2000 Jeep Cherokee. DiamlerChrysler. "bore x stroke = 3.88 x 3.413 in"
^ http://www.rubiconsahara.com/?page_id=4
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g "Jeep Specs & Upgrades". Chrysler LLC. http://www.jeep.com/bridge/vehsuite.html?app=vehiclespecs&family=wrangler&model=Technical&zipcode=10101&year=2008. Retrieved 2008-04-16.
^ "Jeep JK Wrangler Resource » Recalls". Project-JK.com. http://project-jk.com/jeep-jk/jeep-jk-tsb-recalls/recalls/. Retrieved 2009-08-24.
^ "2009 Jeep Wrangler". jeephorizons.com. http://www.jeephorizons.com/news/09_wrangler_090108.html. Retrieved September 3, 2008.
^ "Jeep Unveils Stretched 2007 Wrangler Unlimited with $21,000 Price Tag". Edmunds.com. http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=109966. Retrieved April 12, 2006.
^ "My Chrysler: MyGig- How MyGig Works". http://www.chrysler.com/en/owners/mygig/. Retrieved June 9, 2008.
^ "New Military Version of Jeep Wrangler Unlimited". jeephorizons.com. http://www.jeephorizons.com/news/j8_091307.html. Retrieved September 16, 2007.
^ "Back in the Army". CNN.com. http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/autos/0709/gallery.jeep_wrangler_history//index.html?cnn=yes. Retrieved September 23, 2007.
^ "2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited". jeephorizons.com. http://www.jeephorizons.com/news/09_unlimited_090108.html. Retrieved September 3, 2008.
^ "Total Chrysler LLC December 2007 Sales Up 1 Percent on the Strength of Retail". CheersandGears.com. 2008-01-03. http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/55253-total-chrysler-llc-december-2007-sales-up-1-percent-on-the-strength-of-retail/. Retrieved 2009-01-05.
^ "December 2008 Sales: Chrysler LLC". CheersandGears.com. 2009-01-05. http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/27526-december-2008-sales-chrysler-llc/. Retrieved 2009-01-05.
^ "Chrysler Group LLC December 2009 Sales". CheersandGears.com. 2010-01-05. http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/50556-chrysler-group-llc-december-2009/. Retrieved 2010-01-05.
^ CARFAX - Kelley Blue Book-Models to Best Hold Its Value, retrieved on 2008-05-12
^ Zygmont, Jeff. "Top 10 Vehicles with the Highest Resale Value", ForbesAutos.com, 2008-07-31, retrieved on 2008-09-13.
^ [1], retrieved on 2009-10-05
^ Burgess, Scott (September 23, 2008). "Chrysler plans to sell electric car in 2010". The Detroit News. http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080923/AUTO01/809230421. Retrieved 2008-09-24.
^ Kevin Krolicki (2009-11-06). "Chrysler dismantles electric car plans under Fiat". Reuters. http://www.reuters.com/article/GCA-BusinessofGreen/idUSTRE5A605N20091107. Retrieved 2009-11-17.

Contents