New guy in Arizona with questions

[907Guy]

Just registered, testing the waters.
I don't live in Arizona my Son does, I'm looking to buy A TJ in that area.
I'm retired and live in Alaska but would like to explore the trails in around Arizona and neighboring States.
Been looking at TJs on Craigslist in Arizona, quite a few TJs for sale.
Owned a 86 CJ7 years ago and did a far amount of off-roading, now I want to get serious.
Would probably leave the Jeep in Phenix for the winter and move it north to the Seattle area in the summer.
One Reason I'm looking at TJs is AC, a must in the Arizona Area.
Not settled on standard or Automatic, I'm fine with either but my son and wife would do better with Auto.
I want a TJ that is already upgraded for serious rock crawling and trail riding, not a 100% sure what's the best combination?
3in - 5in lift, 33in - 35in tires. Some rigs have air compressors for tire re-inflation I guess.
Definitely want a hardtop, plan on camping out of the rig. A roof rack perhaps.
Will be highway driving a lot.
With all the lift modifications, control arms, tie rods, drive shafts, bushings and such; there is a lot to go wrong if not properly installed.
So any words of wisdom, what to look for and what to avoid.
I just want a capable on-off road rig I can Rely on.
Also, I'll most likely become a supporting member at some point here; at this point I'm still in the conceptual stage.
I plan on flying down to Phoenix next month and hopefully make a cash offer on an acceptable rig costing between $13 to $20k with less than 100k mils.
One other question, should I avoid rigs towed behind RVs? I know the wrangler is popular as a tow vehicle because you can put the transfer case in neutral but this still puts ware on the rear diff and front wheel bearings.
Sorry for the long winded thread, but any and all comments will be much appreciated.
Jay

 

[tm dean]

Welcome to wrangler tj forum. Great to have you on board....your desire for a tj, and the accessories installed is a great idea. I can't add much to what you have already stated. About the only thing i can say is the tj's if not properly dealt with is frame rust. Where the frame comes to to a low spot in the mid rear area. There is a problem with mud/salt to accumulate. It rusts from the inside out. Some others will chime in about this that are more experienced than myself.

 

[GregBelleville]

About the only thing i can say is the tj's if not properly dealt with is frame rust. Where the frame comes to to a low spot in the mid rear area. There is a problem with mud/salt to accumulate. It rusts from the inside out. Some others will chime in about this that are more experienced than myself.

If he's looking at AZ jeeps that shouldn't be an issue, unless the Jeep started its life in the northeast.

 

[Mac57]

Welcome to the best TJ forum you will ever find.
A solid frame, rust free, is the first thing to look for. Check inside the frame with a camera, they rust from the inside out. You'll want the 4.0 engine for highway driving and an auto trans for rock crawling. The 2004 / 05 models have some unique computer issues, also OPDA potential problems. Fortunately the vendor Wranglerfix can deal with computer issues if you have them. The early models 1997 / 98 are simpler with distributors.Generally, the 2003 year seems to draw the most favour. especially if it's the Rubicon model with factory lockers that still work properly. Finding something well built for serious rock crawling, lots of highway driving and reliable in the price range and mileage range you specify may be like finding a unicorn. Different builds for different purposes and sometimes mega dollars invested. I'd look for something with a 3 inch lift at most,on 33's, that's properly geared to start. Or an untouched stock one that you can modify as you wish. Good luck on your search and keep us updated.

PS: Post up here on your potential purchases, with photos. The forum members will be happy to critique and comment with some good advice before you take the plunge.

 

[Chris]

Post up here on your potential purchases, with photos. The forum members will be happy to critique and comment with some good advice before you take the plunge.

^ This

Don't buy anything until you run it by us first.

 

[OHFIVETJ]

Welcome to the group from the Island of Long, My name is Johnny & i'm a JEEPAHOLIC