TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
#61
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
The hard top is nice in the winter. So is going to look at xmas lights
with the top down and those sunny spring days with lots of snow still on
the trails....
I like it both ways.
Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
Intergate wrote:
>
> On the soft top issue, I am thinking of getting the hard top for the winter
> months just because the Constant Ice and snow,slush,salt etc seems like it
> would detiorate the top prematurely and generally be real hard on it. Am I
> wrong?
>
> I live in VT where it gets real cold and snowy!
>
> --
> Tim
>
> [____]
> (OIIIIIIO)
>
> "Matt" <mhammer8@yahoo.com> wrote in message
> news:3a3f4978.0407300816.41b641ea@posting.google.c om...
> > Every year, my wife and I take my '99 TJ Sport from DC area to
> > Michigan, then across Ontario to my folks' house in Cortland. I've got
> > 31's on it (muds) and never had a problem. We rented a small Japanese
> > car of some sort a few years back and got stuck in western NY, so now
> > we use the TJ. It's unstoppable, even in good-size drifts. Loud on
> > road trips, though :)
> > I'd definitely go with the TJ. Honestly, I wouldn't bother with the
> > hard top, either. Even in the winter there it stays warm enough
> > inside. The new soft tops after '95 rule.
> >
> > Matt
> >
> >
> >
> > psychonomic@hotmail.com (DJ) wrote in message
> news:<51eaac29.0407291248.4c57673b@posting.google. com>...
> > > Time to start thinking about a new vehicle and I could use some
> > > feedback from people who have lived with a TJ as a daily driver in an
> > > area that gets real snow. Any feedback you fine folks can give will
> > > be much appreciated.
> > >
> > >
> > > Background:
> > >
> > > I live in a rural part of central New York (USA) and we get a fair
> > > amount of snow in the winter (10+ feet a winter). I live at the top
> > > of a hill (roads up to my house in the 8-10% grade range), have a 150
> > > foot gravel driveway, and we get a fair amount of wind causing
> > > significant drifting (e.g., from plowed to drifted shut within 90
> > > minutes). Current vehicles include a '99 Subaru SUS Limited (basically
> > > a legacy sedan body on Outback running gear) and an '03 Chrysler T&C
> > > Limited with AWD (I've got a wife and two young kids ? can ya tell?).
> > >
> > > The SUS is what I drive the most and 90% of my driving is with me
> > > alone in the car (if the whole family is headed out we take the
> > > minivan). Most of my driving is to and from work (less than 5 miles)
> > > and around town. I am a volunteer EMT and there are times when I have
> > > to get to the station (QUICKLY if possible) independent of weather,
> > > and my job also requires me to go to work independent of weather.
> > >
> > > There two vehicles that have caught my eye and I can only have one:
> > > the '05 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT and the Jeep TJ Sport with LSD in the
> > > rear, dual tops, wheel/tire package, etc. I know, I know, VERY
> > > different from each other?
> > >
> > > My current vehicles, the subbie and the awd T&C, are both very good in
> > > the snow and ice. However, both have been stuck in my driveway due to
> > > the same problem: The driveway gets cleared, it drifts over, and in
> > > trying to get out (for work or an ambulance call) the vehicle "floats"
> > > on the snow leaving little to no contact between the wheels and the
> > > frozen gravel driveway. Cursing, digging and pushing result. Now, I
> > > admit that this doesn't happen that often, but when it does, and it
> > > does multiple times each winter, I REALLY wish I had more ground
> > > clearance. Also, the SUS's engine is anemic. While the car is a
> > > blast to drive on slick roads (as long as things are not too deep),
> > > there is no real "fun factor" in the SUS on dry roads and it is boring
> > > as anything in the summer.
> > >
> > > Where does this leave me and why post here? Well, I am torn between
> > > the new subbie 2.5 GT sedan (which now has a 250 HP turbo engine) and
> > > the TJ. I am finding myself drawn to TJs for reasons I cannot quite
> > > explain. I want my next ride to be fun in some way, but it also has
> > > to serve my day-to-day driving needs. The GT sedan will have a bit of
> > > "fun" in it given it has almost 90 more HP than my SUS. On the other
> > > hand, it will be even lower to the ground than my current subbie, and
> > > that can't be good for November to March. Having owned Subbies
> > > before, I know it will be dependable. The TJ? That's why I am here:
> > >
> > > How deep can the snow be for a stock TJ (with winter tires, of course)
> > > to still be able to make it through? On Edmunds the subbie outback
> > > chassis is listed as having a ground clearance that isn't that far off
> > > from a stock TJ. On my subbie the entire undercarriage is at about
> > > the same height and makes a perfect raft on which to float on the
> > > snow. I presume the TJ actually has much less of the vehicle at the
> > > clearance height and that it will take much more snow to slow it down,
> > > but I would appreciate reports from those who have experience with
> > > this as if the TJ doesn't win here, I can't really justify getting it.
> > >
> > > How is the TJ on snowy and icy roads? The Subaru and Chrysler AWD
> > > systems have been excellent and I have never dealt with a "real" 4x4
> > > before. My understanding is that the Jeep is basically a rear wheel
> > > drive vehicle until one shifts into 4 Hi or 4 Lo, which you can't do
> > > until you are already on slippery surfaces. The subbie tends to
> > > under-steer in low traction situations (unless I purposely work it to
> > > get the back end loose, which I like to do in empty parking lots), am
> > > I correct in assuming the TJ tends to over-steer? In a fun way or
> > > scary way?
> > >
> > > Clearly a Jeep is a Jeep. That is, I understand I'd be giving up the
> > > heated seats and mirrors, memory seats, etc. that I currently have and
> > > could have on the '05 GT. Anyone make the move to a TJ and miss these
> > > things? Right now it sounds OK to me as we'll still have all the
> > > electronic crap in the minivan, plus the top comes off the JEEP!
> > > However, looking at and riding in a vehicle for short times during the
> > > shopping process is different than getting into one everyday for 5 to
> > > 10 years.
> > >
> > > I know a lot of the above is blasphemy in this group (I'm not planning
> > > on climbing rock strewn mountains, though there are some state forest
> > > 4x4 roads around here I'd like to try), and that in most ways I don't
> > > "need" a Jeep. I just might, however, WANT one, and I'd like to go
> > > into it at least knowing what the vehicle can do when it comes to the
> > > practical needs I have.
> > >
> > > Thank you in advance for any help!
> > >
> > > DJ
> > >
> > > (P.S. The other option is a F250 4x4 with a plow ? No more drifting
> > > issues? I just don't want that much truck)
with the top down and those sunny spring days with lots of snow still on
the trails....
I like it both ways.
Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
Intergate wrote:
>
> On the soft top issue, I am thinking of getting the hard top for the winter
> months just because the Constant Ice and snow,slush,salt etc seems like it
> would detiorate the top prematurely and generally be real hard on it. Am I
> wrong?
>
> I live in VT where it gets real cold and snowy!
>
> --
> Tim
>
> [____]
> (OIIIIIIO)
>
> "Matt" <mhammer8@yahoo.com> wrote in message
> news:3a3f4978.0407300816.41b641ea@posting.google.c om...
> > Every year, my wife and I take my '99 TJ Sport from DC area to
> > Michigan, then across Ontario to my folks' house in Cortland. I've got
> > 31's on it (muds) and never had a problem. We rented a small Japanese
> > car of some sort a few years back and got stuck in western NY, so now
> > we use the TJ. It's unstoppable, even in good-size drifts. Loud on
> > road trips, though :)
> > I'd definitely go with the TJ. Honestly, I wouldn't bother with the
> > hard top, either. Even in the winter there it stays warm enough
> > inside. The new soft tops after '95 rule.
> >
> > Matt
> >
> >
> >
> > psychonomic@hotmail.com (DJ) wrote in message
> news:<51eaac29.0407291248.4c57673b@posting.google. com>...
> > > Time to start thinking about a new vehicle and I could use some
> > > feedback from people who have lived with a TJ as a daily driver in an
> > > area that gets real snow. Any feedback you fine folks can give will
> > > be much appreciated.
> > >
> > >
> > > Background:
> > >
> > > I live in a rural part of central New York (USA) and we get a fair
> > > amount of snow in the winter (10+ feet a winter). I live at the top
> > > of a hill (roads up to my house in the 8-10% grade range), have a 150
> > > foot gravel driveway, and we get a fair amount of wind causing
> > > significant drifting (e.g., from plowed to drifted shut within 90
> > > minutes). Current vehicles include a '99 Subaru SUS Limited (basically
> > > a legacy sedan body on Outback running gear) and an '03 Chrysler T&C
> > > Limited with AWD (I've got a wife and two young kids ? can ya tell?).
> > >
> > > The SUS is what I drive the most and 90% of my driving is with me
> > > alone in the car (if the whole family is headed out we take the
> > > minivan). Most of my driving is to and from work (less than 5 miles)
> > > and around town. I am a volunteer EMT and there are times when I have
> > > to get to the station (QUICKLY if possible) independent of weather,
> > > and my job also requires me to go to work independent of weather.
> > >
> > > There two vehicles that have caught my eye and I can only have one:
> > > the '05 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT and the Jeep TJ Sport with LSD in the
> > > rear, dual tops, wheel/tire package, etc. I know, I know, VERY
> > > different from each other?
> > >
> > > My current vehicles, the subbie and the awd T&C, are both very good in
> > > the snow and ice. However, both have been stuck in my driveway due to
> > > the same problem: The driveway gets cleared, it drifts over, and in
> > > trying to get out (for work or an ambulance call) the vehicle "floats"
> > > on the snow leaving little to no contact between the wheels and the
> > > frozen gravel driveway. Cursing, digging and pushing result. Now, I
> > > admit that this doesn't happen that often, but when it does, and it
> > > does multiple times each winter, I REALLY wish I had more ground
> > > clearance. Also, the SUS's engine is anemic. While the car is a
> > > blast to drive on slick roads (as long as things are not too deep),
> > > there is no real "fun factor" in the SUS on dry roads and it is boring
> > > as anything in the summer.
> > >
> > > Where does this leave me and why post here? Well, I am torn between
> > > the new subbie 2.5 GT sedan (which now has a 250 HP turbo engine) and
> > > the TJ. I am finding myself drawn to TJs for reasons I cannot quite
> > > explain. I want my next ride to be fun in some way, but it also has
> > > to serve my day-to-day driving needs. The GT sedan will have a bit of
> > > "fun" in it given it has almost 90 more HP than my SUS. On the other
> > > hand, it will be even lower to the ground than my current subbie, and
> > > that can't be good for November to March. Having owned Subbies
> > > before, I know it will be dependable. The TJ? That's why I am here:
> > >
> > > How deep can the snow be for a stock TJ (with winter tires, of course)
> > > to still be able to make it through? On Edmunds the subbie outback
> > > chassis is listed as having a ground clearance that isn't that far off
> > > from a stock TJ. On my subbie the entire undercarriage is at about
> > > the same height and makes a perfect raft on which to float on the
> > > snow. I presume the TJ actually has much less of the vehicle at the
> > > clearance height and that it will take much more snow to slow it down,
> > > but I would appreciate reports from those who have experience with
> > > this as if the TJ doesn't win here, I can't really justify getting it.
> > >
> > > How is the TJ on snowy and icy roads? The Subaru and Chrysler AWD
> > > systems have been excellent and I have never dealt with a "real" 4x4
> > > before. My understanding is that the Jeep is basically a rear wheel
> > > drive vehicle until one shifts into 4 Hi or 4 Lo, which you can't do
> > > until you are already on slippery surfaces. The subbie tends to
> > > under-steer in low traction situations (unless I purposely work it to
> > > get the back end loose, which I like to do in empty parking lots), am
> > > I correct in assuming the TJ tends to over-steer? In a fun way or
> > > scary way?
> > >
> > > Clearly a Jeep is a Jeep. That is, I understand I'd be giving up the
> > > heated seats and mirrors, memory seats, etc. that I currently have and
> > > could have on the '05 GT. Anyone make the move to a TJ and miss these
> > > things? Right now it sounds OK to me as we'll still have all the
> > > electronic crap in the minivan, plus the top comes off the JEEP!
> > > However, looking at and riding in a vehicle for short times during the
> > > shopping process is different than getting into one everyday for 5 to
> > > 10 years.
> > >
> > > I know a lot of the above is blasphemy in this group (I'm not planning
> > > on climbing rock strewn mountains, though there are some state forest
> > > 4x4 roads around here I'd like to try), and that in most ways I don't
> > > "need" a Jeep. I just might, however, WANT one, and I'd like to go
> > > into it at least knowing what the vehicle can do when it comes to the
> > > practical needs I have.
> > >
> > > Thank you in advance for any help!
> > >
> > > DJ
> > >
> > > (P.S. The other option is a F250 4x4 with a plow ? No more drifting
> > > issues? I just don't want that much truck)
#62
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"John R" <john_r357@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:77ac046e.0408022307.4bc5d3ab@posting.google.c om...
> Tim,
>
> I lived near Burlington for 30 years (born and raised)and although I
> didn't own my Jeep then, I'll give you my $0.02 worth. (I seriously
> doubt there are many in this forum that know what a VT winter is
> really like.)
>
> ABSOLUTELY get the hard top for winter.
I'll second that. I'm not in VT, but not far from there and I appreciate
the hard top on my TJ a lot (from around Xmas till April fools day)
-Fred W (in Southern NH)
'98 TJ Sport
#63
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"John R" <john_r357@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:77ac046e.0408022307.4bc5d3ab@posting.google.c om...
> Tim,
>
> I lived near Burlington for 30 years (born and raised)and although I
> didn't own my Jeep then, I'll give you my $0.02 worth. (I seriously
> doubt there are many in this forum that know what a VT winter is
> really like.)
>
> ABSOLUTELY get the hard top for winter.
I'll second that. I'm not in VT, but not far from there and I appreciate
the hard top on my TJ a lot (from around Xmas till April fools day)
-Fred W (in Southern NH)
'98 TJ Sport
#64
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"John R" <john_r357@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:77ac046e.0408022307.4bc5d3ab@posting.google.c om...
> Tim,
>
> I lived near Burlington for 30 years (born and raised)and although I
> didn't own my Jeep then, I'll give you my $0.02 worth. (I seriously
> doubt there are many in this forum that know what a VT winter is
> really like.)
>
> ABSOLUTELY get the hard top for winter.
I'll second that. I'm not in VT, but not far from there and I appreciate
the hard top on my TJ a lot (from around Xmas till April fools day)
-Fred W (in Southern NH)
'98 TJ Sport
#65
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"John R" <john_r357@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:77ac046e.0408022307.4bc5d3ab@posting.google.c om...
> Tim,
>
> I lived near Burlington for 30 years (born and raised)and although I
> didn't own my Jeep then, I'll give you my $0.02 worth. (I seriously
> doubt there are many in this forum that know what a VT winter is
> really like.)
>
> ABSOLUTELY get the hard top for winter.
I'll second that. I'm not in VT, but not far from there and I appreciate
the hard top on my TJ a lot (from around Xmas till April fools day)
-Fred W (in Southern NH)
'98 TJ Sport
#66
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"Dana Rohleder" <boreal@charter.net> wrote in message news:<10gqdjrh05uvd1e@corp.supernews.com>...
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
#67
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"Dana Rohleder" <boreal@charter.net> wrote in message news:<10gqdjrh05uvd1e@corp.supernews.com>...
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
#68
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"Dana Rohleder" <boreal@charter.net> wrote in message news:<10gqdjrh05uvd1e@corp.supernews.com>...
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
#69
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"Dana Rohleder" <boreal@charter.net> wrote in message news:<10gqdjrh05uvd1e@corp.supernews.com>...
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
> I have lived in Syracuse, Parish, and the Adirondacks most of my life, and I
> feel your pain. Honestly, the best suggestion would be a snow fence or
> windbreak to minimize the drifting. The Subaru would be far superior to any
> short wheelbase Jeep on icy roads, but I would prefer the Jeep if I had to
> drive in 2 feet of snow the whole way to work. I have owned three full-size
> Cherokee/Grand Wagoneers and found them to be perfect in the winter, as long
> as they were in 4WD/Quadratrac. I owned a Grand Cherokee with Quadratrac and
> didn't like it as well as the larger Jeeps. I was very happy with both
> Subarus I have owned - MUCH more stable in slippery conditions. I have also
> had two 4WD pickups, and theye were very squirrely in slippery conditions -
> great in deep snow. Currently, I have a Saturn LW300 (FWD) that drives great
> in up to 6"of snow. I also have a YJ that I can use if the roads haven't
> been cleared (which is rare up here) but the top comes off in May and goes
> back on in November - I don't HAVE to use it as a daily driver.
>
> My point is, there is no perfect vehicle. For safety, reliability, and good
> gas mileage, I would stay with a FWD or AWD vehicle such as the Subaru
> Forester or Legacy Outback Wagon, or the 2005 Volvo V50 or SAAB 9-2X (a
> rebadged Subaru). A Volvo XC, or Audi Quattro if you can live with less
> reliability. The TJ would probably be the worst choice for general winter
> driving in terms of safety, but would be pretty capable in deep snow as long
> as you go SLOW. My suggestion would be to go with an AWD new car for most
> conditions, and have an old 4WD tank for the worst conditions - something
> you don't mind putting in a ditch. A Jeep Commando ragtop would be ideal,
> but haven't been made in over 30 years. Other than that, an old TJ would
> probably be your cheapest choice if you are looking for a ragtop. I get
> about 20 MPG with my 93 TJ, and it is a lot of fun in the summer (the week
> between spring and fall).
>
>
> Dana C. Rohleder
> Port Kent, NY
Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
West
Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
and was
very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
that snow.
I had some "check engine light" issues when the temperature dropped
below
17 degrees, but I think the dealer cured that. Anyway, the new Jeep
was a
replacement for a worn-out S-10 Blazer for daily work transportation.
So I
got the cheapest TJ on the lot and it's a rag top. I've had no
problems with
the top or keeping warm inside and still have a fun summer vehicle,
too.
I know it's new and the top might not give any problems yet, but I
think the
material and craftsmanship have improved from years past. I did go out
and
knock the snow off the top when it piled on and the heater cleared the
ice from the side and back windows OK. Yea, it's the cheap Jeep with a
four banger and a 5sp and I even like that. I get decent gas mileage
and can putt
around the mountains and streams longer without going to the gas
station.
I do drive 22mi one way to work on an Interstate highway at about
70mph daily.
It might not be the quickest off the ramp, but then look at the fun I
have
off the Interstate in the mountains. If I want to go fast I'll get in
my
wife's Mustang GT !!!
It's all in what you want to do . . . Tom T
#70
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: TJ for Icy Roads, Deep Snow and Daily Driver?
"Tom T" <wpdret@shentel.net> wrote in message
news:d42230a2.0408031719.3145ad7f@posting.google.c om...
> Here's my 2 cents about this. I just moved from the mountains of
> West
> Virginia, but had lived there for about nine years. I always had a 4x4
> because it was a winter necessity. I purchased a new TJ last winter
> and was
> very happy with it's ability in deep snow and mountain climbing in
> that snow.
8< 8< 8<
....ya-but, West Va is about a thousand miles south of Vermont. I'm thinking
that even though the elevation may be similar, the lattitude's gotta make
winters a bit milder. That and you surely get (got) more hours of
daylight... ;-)
-Fred W