Jeep Wranglers and CJ Models
The Jeep CJ series was first produced by Willys, then Kaiser, followed by American Motors, and then Chrysler (now Stellantis North America), when it became the Wrangler.
After 85 years of production, the basic formula remains the same, a ladder frame with solid front and rear axles, tourqey motor and four-wheel-drive.
They're fun to drive, fun to own, and ready to go anywhere, any time, in any weather!
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Early CJ Jeeps
Early CJ's are very small, but that 80" wheelbase (and light weight) make them very nimble.
They were, and still are, exceptionally capable for off-road use.
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Longer Larger CJ7
Addressing consumer complaints with the CJ5, the CJ7 had a longer wheelbase and larger interior. It was also more stable at higher speeds, and unlike all it's predecessors, was available with an automatic transmission.
With more interior space, optional molded plastic top, steel doors, and air conditioning, the CJ7 was a big leap forward in comfort and day-to-day practicality.
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First Generation Wrangler (YJ Series)
The square headlight Wranglers were produced from 1987 through 1995. They were more comfortable than any previous model, and today they are still plenty capable of being a daily-driver. Like the CJ, the YJ had solid front and rear axles with leaf-spring suspension.
Wranglers offer amazing versatility; removable hard or soft tops, fold-down windshields, half-doors, no doors, or full steel doors, etc.
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Second Generation TJ (1997-2006)
Beginning with 2nd Gen TJ series, front and rear leaf springs were replaced with the "Quadra-Coil" suspension system. Aside from giving a better ride, it eliminated axle wrap and made suspension tuning easier.
Appearance wise, the TJ brought back the round headlights of the CJ models.
Note: The 2nd Gen TJ was released in early 1996 as a 1997 model, technically there was no 1996 model.
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Third Generation JK (2007-2017)
Starting in 2007, two body styles were now available, the classic two-door and four-door Unlimited. Power windows and remote power door locks were offered for the first time in a Wrangler.
The JK is slightly wider than the TJ, having a 3.4" wider track. And although the two-door models have a 2-inch longer wheelbase, they are actually 2.5 inches shorter in overall length than TJ models.
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Fourth Generation (JL)
Produced from 2018 to present.
Windshield Changes
The windshield angle on Wranglers has slowly become less flat and less vertical over the years.
On YJ and TJ Jeeps, windshield glass is completely flat.
On the JK, the glass is slightly curved and slopes back a little further than earlier generations.
As with all previous versions, the windshield (glass and frame) folds down flat onto the hood.
On JL models, the windshield became slightly more raked than the JK. Also on the JL, only the windshield glass folds down, the A-pillar stays put. This makes the fold-down process easier; simply remove the wipers and four interior bolts.
Things That Remain The Same
Always with us, and hopefully always will be:
Seven-slot grille, exposed door hinges, flat front fenders, hinged windshield.
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Special Editions
Just one of the many special edition trim packages is the Willys, which combines off-roading capability with retro styling.
First seen on 3rd-gen Wranglers as the Willys Wheeler, the 4th-gen version is just called 'Willys'.
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What's That Little Icon On My Wrangler Wheels?
Have you been wondering about those tiny Jeep silhouettes on your Wrangler wheels? They're a factory tribute to the classic, original 1941 Willys MB military Jeep.
Look around your truck, you'll find other 'Easter eggs' as well. You may have a little Jeep molded into your spare tire carrier, or perhaps the dashboard. On some years and models, there is a little Jeep on the border of the windshield. These small, unique details have been factory-placed on Wranglers since at least the 2000 model year.
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