So yes first off my name is actually TJ; so this couldn't have worked out any better
Purchased a 03 X with 129k on the clock.
It was bone stock as far as I could tell, but basically rust free.
Paid a little more for the condition which from what I understand is rare up in the NE.
Background: Im a computer and electronics tech and have never done any automotive work ever before. I did some modifications electrically to my old car but that was about it. so well on with the show:
Here is the list of work done so far. Ill post pics to the build page as soon as I get a free minute here at work.
- also try and be kind, im still a newb at all this and getting the hang of it
- also, also THANK YOU ALL for the help you have given. I couldn't do it without you!!
purchased at the end of January '14
I have no garage so winter work is slow
Phase 1 - complete 2/19/14
✔Buy the Jeep
✔Front speakers - Pioneer - have since been replaced - see below
✔Sound pod speakers - kicker CS
✔Front speaker brackets
✔Deck and deck support frame- Pioneer DEH-X6600BT
✔Custom Rugged Ridge Fuel door
✔Rampage dual tube front bumper
✔Dome light / door alarm bypass switch
✔Black headlight surrounds
✔Rugged Ridge floor mats
✔Replaced heat level control switch
✔Dash tray
✔5 lock lugs
✔5 Rugged Ridge 15x8 black rims
✔5 General Grabber AT2 30/9.5R15 with center caps
✔Hard top - scored for $200 off CL
✔Hard top quick remove bolts
✔White LED dash light upgrade
✔White HVAC LED light upgrade
✔Roll bar grab handles
✔Rear seat belt removal
What horn is that??
And how are those fuel injectors working out? Did you get a slight power boost? Improved acceleration or smoother engine operation?
changed the fluid in the front and rear diffs - absolutely disgusting - PO never did shit to this thing. installed lubelockers on both and an ARB cover on the D35
Also got the skyjacker steering stabilizer on. Also got a new IAC as mine is hissing like a snake
Well I've got a nice set of 2.5 rough country shocks sitting on my shelf but haven't really made any effort to get the rest of the parts ready to do the work.
Sadly ( or I guess fortunately for me) I'm one of those guys where money isn't an issue for my build. It's more about having fun doing it myself and learning along the way. I do however like to get a deal and try and do lots of research before I make a purchase.
I kinda like it's current height with the 30x9.5s on it and might just wait until the tires are done or close to done before doing a 2.5 or more lift and then some 33s. I love how they stick a good 1-2 inches out past the fender flares. Gives it a real aggressive look in my opinion.
It's my daily driver and an automatic so it's never gonna be a real true trail monster. I'm thinking about getting another one for just off road use.
* as for the horns I honestly haven't mounted them yet, but I did test them and my ears were ringing for a while! F'ing loud!!!! I think I paid $35 off eBay for them. I've since sanded and sprayed them with bed liner.
I usually get about 1-2 hours 3 days a week after i close my business and the GF is at the gym to work on it. I've gotta finish my iac, trackbar rebuild and then I'll figure out the horns, perhaps I'll post a vid of them
Got the new exhaust in the mail today! Also got the A pilar gushes pod in for the Trans temp gauges. Finally figured out how to tighten down the top of the sway links. And replaced the IAC. It no longer hisses and the throttle is more stable.
Finished rebuilding the front track bar. Energy suspension bushings. I don't have a shop press so I had to improvise with a random puller tool I had and an air hammer. Took about 2 hours but I got it done!!
Got my awesome PS / Trans cooler setup today from Northridge 4x4 and the big brown truck. If you read my earlier post this thing will be turned into a double Trans cooler with thermostat diversion away from stock heater. Should cause the Trans and engine to run cooler but also be able to heat up correctly in the winter. I will also be installing two digital temp gauges to watch the outgoing and incoming temperatures.
Thanks! I don't feel like I've done a lot yet, but it's a start.
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