My grandfather was a WWII veteran and always wanted to own a Jeep ever since the old flat fenders. He purchased it new in 2001, complete with 29 inch wheels, hard doors, hard top and the smokers group. It was a very base model Jeep even without air conditioning. Luckily, for my 16th birthday my grandpa gave the jeep to me and I have been driving it in some form of fashion over the last 15+ years. It was the first vehicle I learned to drive stick shift in. Over the years it has had many iterations. Starting with 31 inch tires and no lift, to a 4 inch rough country lift and 35 inch Interco swampers. After replacing several parts over the years (being in NY salt winters didn’t help) it’s becoming a fun project that has been reliable to take on camping trips and cruise around town. I love the TJ since it’s easy enough to work on (adult legos) and it’s nimble on the trails I run. Long term plans include swapping out the axles, LS Swap, and possibly a long arm kit and 100inch wheelbase.
