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Jeep lovers rejoiced with the introduction of the Jeep TJ in 1997. The term TJ stands for True Jeep, and many considered this Jeep Wrangler as the ultimate escape machine. Jeep made the Wrangler TJ from 1997 to 2006 and only as a two-door model. The Jeep brand equipped the TJ for top-notch off-road capability with functional on-road handling. Jeep history buffs can learn more about the legendary TJ below.
The Jeep TJ Replaces the Wrangler YJ in 1997
Jeep returned to its iconic exterior look with the TJ, giving it a similar style to the older CJ model. The Wrangler TJ had round headlights, as opposed to the controversial square headlights of the YJ, turn indicators on the fender, and an updated seven-slot grille. While Jeep changed the exterior look of the TJ to align more with their original Jeep models, the biggest changes came in the suspension system.
Quadra-Coil Suspension Introduced With the Jeep TJ
Older Jeeps had leaf springs that gave them a stiff ride. For the new Jeep TJ, the brand gave the vehicle its innovative Quadra-Coil suspension system. Off-roaders could now experience greater articulation, better ground clearance, and aggressive approach and departure angles with this new suspension system. Under the hood, the TJ carries a 4.0-liter straight-six engine, it's found in the luxurious Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee SUVs.
Off-Roaders Celebrate the Birth of the Rubicon Trim in 2003
In 2003, Jeep introduced the extreme off-road TJ model — the Rubicon. This highly capable Jeep TJ, named after the rugged Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, featured the Rock-Trac four-wheel-drive system, Dana 44 axle universal joints, air-articulated Tru-Loc front and rear lockers, and diamond plate rock rails.
The Wrangler LJ Unlimited Edition Debuts in 2004
Jeep listened to its consumers and introduced the Wrangler LJ, known as the Wrangler Unlimited, in 2004. This Jeep model is the larger cousin of the TJ Wrangler with a 10-inch longer wheelbase, 13 inches more cargo room, and a suspension system that gave the Wrangler Unlimited smoother on-road handling. In 2005, Jeep introduced the Rubicon Unlimited, blending features of the off-road Rubicon model with the long wheelbase of the Wrangler LJ.
The Jeep JK Replaces the Jeep TJ in 2007
After production of the TJ stopped in 2007, the Jeep brand introduced the Wrangler JK. This Jeep model was reminiscent of the Willys MB model with the vintage-looking seven-slot grille and round headlights with the turn signals placed directly under them. Along with the two-door JK, Jeep also made a four-door version with removable doors, roof, and fold-down windshield. This version allowed for more passengers and cargo space while retaining its legendary off-road capabilities. Production of the Jeep JK stopped in 2018.
Off-road enthusiasts still appreciate the Jeep TJ with its iconic looks and rugged capability and seek used ones for adventures. For those looking for a TJ in the Wylie, Texas, area, Collins Bros. Jeep restores, rebuilds, and modifies a range of Jeeps, including the Jeep Wrangler TJ. Collins Bros. Jeep also sells Jeep parts, accessories, and specialty items for exciting off-road adventures.
