Should I get it?
 

Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.

I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.

Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?

Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
appreciated.

Thanks,

Aaron

Re: Should I get it?
 

Naw it would be a POS yuppie Jeep, a wanna be you wouldn't enjoy driving
at all...

Ok, where is it located and how do I contact who owns it now?

;-)

Man, you can't even buy Jeep tires for 300, that is an insane deal for
an 11 year old Jeep, YJ or not.

Back seats are around, lots take them out so used is an option. A seat
from an 88 up to the 96 will fit so even the wreckers are an option.

I find them a 'great' grocery getter Top and doors off, nice sunny day,
hmmm, I need to go to the grocery store for coffee today so if I take
the long way around passing 'near' the mud pits, well... maybe be back
with the coffee by breakfast. :-)

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

Naw it would be a POS yuppie Jeep, a wanna be you wouldn't enjoy driving
at all...

Ok, where is it located and how do I contact who owns it now?

;-)

Man, you can't even buy Jeep tires for 300, that is an insane deal for
an 11 year old Jeep, YJ or not.

Back seats are around, lots take them out so used is an option. A seat
from an 88 up to the 96 will fit so even the wreckers are an option.

I find them a 'great' grocery getter Top and doors off, nice sunny day,
hmmm, I need to go to the grocery store for coffee today so if I take
the long way around passing 'near' the mud pits, well... maybe be back
with the coffee by breakfast. :-)

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

Naw it would be a POS yuppie Jeep, a wanna be you wouldn't enjoy driving
at all...

Ok, where is it located and how do I contact who owns it now?

;-)

Man, you can't even buy Jeep tires for 300, that is an insane deal for
an 11 year old Jeep, YJ or not.

Back seats are around, lots take them out so used is an option. A seat
from an 88 up to the 96 will fit so even the wreckers are an option.

I find them a 'great' grocery getter Top and doors off, nice sunny day,
hmmm, I need to go to the grocery store for coffee today so if I take
the long way around passing 'near' the mud pits, well... maybe be back
with the coffee by breakfast. :-)

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

Naw it would be a POS yuppie Jeep, a wanna be you wouldn't enjoy driving
at all...

Ok, where is it located and how do I contact who owns it now?

;-)

Man, you can't even buy Jeep tires for 300, that is an insane deal for
an 11 year old Jeep, YJ or not.

Back seats are around, lots take them out so used is an option. A seat
from an 88 up to the 96 will fit so even the wreckers are an option.

I find them a 'great' grocery getter Top and doors off, nice sunny day,
hmmm, I need to go to the grocery store for coffee today so if I take
the long way around passing 'near' the mud pits, well... maybe be back
with the coffee by breakfast. :-)

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Jun 8, 8:29 am, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron

Sounds like a good deal, for $300 it is hard to go wrong, you could
get it all back parting it out if it doesn't work out. I have a '95
YJ and it is great. For serious off roading though it does need
modifications like a stronger rear axle, slip yoke eliminator to
improve the transfer case, lift and larger tires. This will be true
also for the newer TJs from 97 to 2006, except for the 2003-2006
Rubicon models that come with Dana 44 axles (sort of) and a better
transfer case (these would cost a lot more though).

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Jun 8, 8:29 am, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron

Sounds like a good deal, for $300 it is hard to go wrong, you could
get it all back parting it out if it doesn't work out. I have a '95
YJ and it is great. For serious off roading though it does need
modifications like a stronger rear axle, slip yoke eliminator to
improve the transfer case, lift and larger tires. This will be true
also for the newer TJs from 97 to 2006, except for the 2003-2006
Rubicon models that come with Dana 44 axles (sort of) and a better
transfer case (these would cost a lot more though).

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Jun 8, 8:29 am, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron

Sounds like a good deal, for $300 it is hard to go wrong, you could
get it all back parting it out if it doesn't work out. I have a '95
YJ and it is great. For serious off roading though it does need
modifications like a stronger rear axle, slip yoke eliminator to
improve the transfer case, lift and larger tires. This will be true
also for the newer TJs from 97 to 2006, except for the 2003-2006
Rubicon models that come with Dana 44 axles (sort of) and a better
transfer case (these would cost a lot more though).

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Jun 8, 8:29 am, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron

Sounds like a good deal, for $300 it is hard to go wrong, you could
get it all back parting it out if it doesn't work out. I have a '95
YJ and it is great. For serious off roading though it does need
modifications like a stronger rear axle, slip yoke eliminator to
improve the transfer case, lift and larger tires. This will be true
also for the newer TJs from 97 to 2006, except for the 2003-2006
Rubicon models that come with Dana 44 axles (sort of) and a better
transfer case (these would cost a lot more though).

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Fri, 8 Jun 2007, Aaron Meck wrote:

> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?

The back seat is easy. Check to see if there are issues that may (or
might not, depending) be beyond your abilities, like frame rot at the
frame rail ends. Be aware that a "fixer-upper" can rapidly turn into a
boat (that is, a boat is hole that you constantly throw money into). It
might be so cheap because there's some thing dire wrong with it, or that
the owner _thinks_ is dire but it isn't really, or he simply got tired of
it and wants it out of the yard quickly.

If nothing else, it could be fun toy. I say look carefully and then go
for it.

Let us know what you decide.




--
"We began to realize, as we plowed on with the destruction of New Jersey,
that the extent of our American lunatic fringe had been underestimated."
Orson Wells on the reaction to the _War Of The Worlds_ broadcast.

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Fri, 8 Jun 2007, Aaron Meck wrote:

> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?

The back seat is easy. Check to see if there are issues that may (or
might not, depending) be beyond your abilities, like frame rot at the
frame rail ends. Be aware that a "fixer-upper" can rapidly turn into a
boat (that is, a boat is hole that you constantly throw money into). It
might be so cheap because there's some thing dire wrong with it, or that
the owner _thinks_ is dire but it isn't really, or he simply got tired of
it and wants it out of the yard quickly.

If nothing else, it could be fun toy. I say look carefully and then go
for it.

Let us know what you decide.




--
"We began to realize, as we plowed on with the destruction of New Jersey,
that the extent of our American lunatic fringe had been underestimated."
Orson Wells on the reaction to the _War Of The Worlds_ broadcast.

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Fri, 8 Jun 2007, Aaron Meck wrote:

> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?

The back seat is easy. Check to see if there are issues that may (or
might not, depending) be beyond your abilities, like frame rot at the
frame rail ends. Be aware that a "fixer-upper" can rapidly turn into a
boat (that is, a boat is hole that you constantly throw money into). It
might be so cheap because there's some thing dire wrong with it, or that
the owner _thinks_ is dire but it isn't really, or he simply got tired of
it and wants it out of the yard quickly.

If nothing else, it could be fun toy. I say look carefully and then go
for it.

Let us know what you decide.




--
"We began to realize, as we plowed on with the destruction of New Jersey,
that the extent of our American lunatic fringe had been underestimated."
Orson Wells on the reaction to the _War Of The Worlds_ broadcast.

Re: Should I get it?
 

On Fri, 8 Jun 2007, Aaron Meck wrote:

> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?

The back seat is easy. Check to see if there are issues that may (or
might not, depending) be beyond your abilities, like frame rot at the
frame rail ends. Be aware that a "fixer-upper" can rapidly turn into a
boat (that is, a boat is hole that you constantly throw money into). It
might be so cheap because there's some thing dire wrong with it, or that
the owner _thinks_ is dire but it isn't really, or he simply got tired of
it and wants it out of the yard quickly.

If nothing else, it could be fun toy. I say look carefully and then go
for it.

Let us know what you decide.




--
"We began to realize, as we plowed on with the destruction of New Jersey,
that the extent of our American lunatic fringe had been underestimated."
Orson Wells on the reaction to the _War Of The Worlds_ broadcast.

Re: Should I get it?
 

There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
headlights?

"Aaron Meck" <armeck@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
headlights?

"Aaron Meck" <armeck@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
headlights?

"Aaron Meck" <armeck@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
headlights?

"Aaron Meck" <armeck@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
> Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Aaron
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.

I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.

As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
"fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Thanks again!

On Jun 8, 5:13 pm, "Matt Macchiarolo" <m...@nospamplease.com> wrote:
> There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
> the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
> headlights?
>
> "Aaron Meck" <arm...@gmail.com> wrote in message
>
> news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
>
> > Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> > guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> > I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> > am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> > back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> > only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> > daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> > the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> > mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> > I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> > Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> > How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> > old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> > Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> > but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> > appreciated.
>
> > Thanks,
>
> > Aaron

Re: Should I get it?
 

I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.

I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.

As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
"fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Thanks again!

On Jun 8, 5:13 pm, "Matt Macchiarolo" <m...@nospamplease.com> wrote:
> There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
> the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
> headlights?
>
> "Aaron Meck" <arm...@gmail.com> wrote in message
>
> news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
>
> > Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> > guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> > I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> > am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> > back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> > only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> > daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> > the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> > mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> > I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> > Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> > How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> > old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> > Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> > but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> > appreciated.
>
> > Thanks,
>
> > Aaron

Re: Should I get it?
 

I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.

I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.

As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
"fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Thanks again!

On Jun 8, 5:13 pm, "Matt Macchiarolo" <m...@nospamplease.com> wrote:
> There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
> the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
> headlights?
>
> "Aaron Meck" <arm...@gmail.com> wrote in message
>
> news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
>
> > Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> > guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> > I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> > am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> > back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> > only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> > daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> > the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> > mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> > I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> > Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> > How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> > old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> > Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> > but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> > appreciated.
>
> > Thanks,
>
> > Aaron

Re: Should I get it?
 

I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.

I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.

As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
"fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Thanks again!

On Jun 8, 5:13 pm, "Matt Macchiarolo" <m...@nospamplease.com> wrote:
> There was no Wrangler with a model year of '96. The last YJ's were '95 and
> the TJ's were intro'd in mid-96 as a '97. Does it have round or rectangular
> headlights?
>
> "Aaron Meck" <arm...@gmail.com> wrote in message
>
> news:1181309375.559911.45040@h2g2000hsg.googlegrou ps.com...
>
> > Ok, I know right away that the "best" answer is "depends", but if you
> > guys could expand a little on this topic I'd appreciate it.
>
> > I have the opportunity to get a 1996 (80K) wrangler for only $300. I
> > am not sure the model, but it is a 4 cyl, has pencil thin tires, no
> > back seat, and needs some TLC to get it "road ready". Most likely
> > only about $300 more to get it running well, but hardly a comfortable
> > daily grocery grabber. My brother (who has had more time to look over
> > the vehicle) guesses the TLC costs to be about $1500. While I am no
> > mechanic, I am fairly handy given a good manual and tools so I suppose
> > I could fix a lot myself, and am not turned off by that idea.
>
> > Sound like a good project, or should I hold out for a better model?
> > How hard/expensive is it to install a back seat aftermarket (my 6 year
> > old will no doubt want to go for a ride)?
>
> > Sorry, if my questions are hard to answer (can be subjective, I know)
> > but any advice, experience, etc., you can offer would be much
> > appreciated.
>
> > Thanks,
>
> > Aaron

Re: Should I get it?
 

Hi Aaron

Sounds like a good deal. Take a battery, several litres of oil, some
water and your brother and go start it and move it a few feet. If it
doesn't start or move, I wouldn't panic at that price. Once you start
working on it at home, the vehicle will attract other Jeeps and you
might get a good deal on the parts you need. A guy came by several
weeks ago and told my wife he had 4 good alloy wheels with tires for
his XJ that got wrecked and were taking up space in his shed. A week
later he dropped them off in the yard. Very nice, now I have 4 full
size matching alloy spares with excellent tires for my 91 at no cost.

I suspect this vehicle hasn't been well maintained so you may need to
replace a few parts to pass safety and emissions tests. But $300 is a
good buy for a complete vehicle. If you have second thoughts about the
vehicle next week, you can recover your investment easily. Go for it!

You can come back to this group for lots of help. And you can get a
factory build sheet to tell you exactly what you have. Then you can
also find out where to get a factory service manual.

If you know a high school shop teacher, you may be able to get some
repairs done for the price of the parts. And you might get a not bad
paint job for the price of the paint and sandpaper.

Good luck

Merrill

On Jun 8, 5:19 pm, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
> online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.
>
> I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
> it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
> is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.
>
> As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
> "fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
> travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Hi Aaron

Sounds like a good deal. Take a battery, several litres of oil, some
water and your brother and go start it and move it a few feet. If it
doesn't start or move, I wouldn't panic at that price. Once you start
working on it at home, the vehicle will attract other Jeeps and you
might get a good deal on the parts you need. A guy came by several
weeks ago and told my wife he had 4 good alloy wheels with tires for
his XJ that got wrecked and were taking up space in his shed. A week
later he dropped them off in the yard. Very nice, now I have 4 full
size matching alloy spares with excellent tires for my 91 at no cost.

I suspect this vehicle hasn't been well maintained so you may need to
replace a few parts to pass safety and emissions tests. But $300 is a
good buy for a complete vehicle. If you have second thoughts about the
vehicle next week, you can recover your investment easily. Go for it!

You can come back to this group for lots of help. And you can get a
factory build sheet to tell you exactly what you have. Then you can
also find out where to get a factory service manual.

If you know a high school shop teacher, you may be able to get some
repairs done for the price of the parts. And you might get a not bad
paint job for the price of the paint and sandpaper.

Good luck

Merrill

On Jun 8, 5:19 pm, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
> online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.
>
> I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
> it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
> is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.
>
> As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
> "fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
> travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Hi Aaron

Sounds like a good deal. Take a battery, several litres of oil, some
water and your brother and go start it and move it a few feet. If it
doesn't start or move, I wouldn't panic at that price. Once you start
working on it at home, the vehicle will attract other Jeeps and you
might get a good deal on the parts you need. A guy came by several
weeks ago and told my wife he had 4 good alloy wheels with tires for
his XJ that got wrecked and were taking up space in his shed. A week
later he dropped them off in the yard. Very nice, now I have 4 full
size matching alloy spares with excellent tires for my 91 at no cost.

I suspect this vehicle hasn't been well maintained so you may need to
replace a few parts to pass safety and emissions tests. But $300 is a
good buy for a complete vehicle. If you have second thoughts about the
vehicle next week, you can recover your investment easily. Go for it!

You can come back to this group for lots of help. And you can get a
factory build sheet to tell you exactly what you have. Then you can
also find out where to get a factory service manual.

If you know a high school shop teacher, you may be able to get some
repairs done for the price of the parts. And you might get a not bad
paint job for the price of the paint and sandpaper.

Good luck

Merrill

On Jun 8, 5:19 pm, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
> online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.
>
> I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
> it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
> is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.
>
> As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
> "fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
> travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Hi Aaron

Sounds like a good deal. Take a battery, several litres of oil, some
water and your brother and go start it and move it a few feet. If it
doesn't start or move, I wouldn't panic at that price. Once you start
working on it at home, the vehicle will attract other Jeeps and you
might get a good deal on the parts you need. A guy came by several
weeks ago and told my wife he had 4 good alloy wheels with tires for
his XJ that got wrecked and were taking up space in his shed. A week
later he dropped them off in the yard. Very nice, now I have 4 full
size matching alloy spares with excellent tires for my 91 at no cost.

I suspect this vehicle hasn't been well maintained so you may need to
replace a few parts to pass safety and emissions tests. But $300 is a
good buy for a complete vehicle. If you have second thoughts about the
vehicle next week, you can recover your investment easily. Go for it!

You can come back to this group for lots of help. And you can get a
factory build sheet to tell you exactly what you have. Then you can
also find out where to get a factory service manual.

If you know a high school shop teacher, you may be able to get some
repairs done for the price of the parts. And you might get a not bad
paint job for the price of the paint and sandpaper.

Good luck

Merrill

On Jun 8, 5:19 pm, Aaron Meck <arm...@gmail.com> wrote:
> I noticed that after I made my post as I was looking up the jeep
> online. It has square lights so I'm thinking it is at newest, a 1995.
>
> I appreciate the input so far guys. I am going to take some pics of
> it this weekend and post them up so ya'll can tell me if you think it
> is a complete POS or a good fixer upper.
>
> As for reinforcing it for offroading - I just plan to use it as a
> "fun" vehicle to zip around town in or some very light dirt road
> travel out to the hunting lodge. No serious rock or trail action.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.

http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep

Re: Should I get it?
 

Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.

http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep

Re: Should I get it?
 

Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.

http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep

Re: Should I get it?
 

Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.

http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

What a piece of crap! NO WAY that is worth $300.00!! Please email me the
owner's name, address, and phone number so I can chastise him for trying
to rip off one of our NG members! Also, if you could post his zipcode
for curiosity sake only. Some people! Sheeesh!

tw

--
PLEASE REMOVE THE "OBVIOUS" TO REPLY.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

What a piece of crap! NO WAY that is worth $300.00!! Please email me the
owner's name, address, and phone number so I can chastise him for trying
to rip off one of our NG members! Also, if you could post his zipcode
for curiosity sake only. Some people! Sheeesh!

tw

--
PLEASE REMOVE THE "OBVIOUS" TO REPLY.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

What a piece of crap! NO WAY that is worth $300.00!! Please email me the
owner's name, address, and phone number so I can chastise him for trying
to rip off one of our NG members! Also, if you could post his zipcode
for curiosity sake only. Some people! Sheeesh!

tw

--
PLEASE REMOVE THE "OBVIOUS" TO REPLY.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

What a piece of crap! NO WAY that is worth $300.00!! Please email me the
owner's name, address, and phone number so I can chastise him for trying
to rip off one of our NG members! Also, if you could post his zipcode
for curiosity sake only. Some people! Sheeesh!

tw

--
PLEASE REMOVE THE "OBVIOUS" TO REPLY.

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

Wow, that is almost too good to be true.

Those tire are wicked. You can run any trail with those and not worry
about traction, tall skinny tires just don't spin to dig holes.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

Wow, that is almost too good to be true.

Those tire are wicked. You can run any trail with those and not worry
about traction, tall skinny tires just don't spin to dig holes.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

Wow, that is almost too good to be true.

Those tire are wicked. You can run any trail with those and not worry
about traction, tall skinny tires just don't spin to dig holes.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Re: Should I get it?
 

Aaron Meck wrote:
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

Wow, that is almost too good to be true.

Those tire are wicked. You can run any trail with those and not worry
about traction, tall skinny tires just don't spin to dig holes.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

Re: Should I get it?
 

I have a back seat from a 93 YJ that I would sell - shipping may be an
issue. But pick-up / meeting half way could be arranged if you are near
Milwaukee, Wi.

I also have the rear seat belts accept the 93's shoulder straps attaches to
a different sports bar configuration then what is on the 91 in the pictures.

paul

"Aaron Meck" <armeck@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1181409059.218525.153350@w5g2000hsg.googlegro ups.com...
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

I have a back seat from a 93 YJ that I would sell - shipping may be an
issue. But pick-up / meeting half way could be arranged if you are near
Milwaukee, Wi.

I also have the rear seat belts accept the 93's shoulder straps attaches to
a different sports bar configuration then what is on the 91 in the pictures.

paul

"Aaron Meck" <armeck@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1181409059.218525.153350@w5g2000hsg.googlegro ups.com...
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>

Re: Should I get it?
 

I have a back seat from a 93 YJ that I would sell - shipping may be an
issue. But pick-up / meeting half way could be arranged if you are near
Milwaukee, Wi.

I also have the rear seat belts accept the 93's shoulder straps attaches to
a different sports bar configuration then what is on the 91 in the pictures.

paul

"Aaron Meck" <armeck@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1181409059.218525.153350@w5g2000hsg.googlegro ups.com...
> Here are some photos I snapped this morning. Turns out it is a 1991,
> but teh mileage is correct at about 86k.
>
> http://picasaweb.google.com/armeck/OldJeep
>