Trail Rated?
Jeep test Jeep® 4x4s on the toughest trails in the world to prove one thing: They can take whatever you dish out. The Trail Rated® badge means that your Jeep 4x4 has been designed to perform in five categories of off-road conditions: traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation, and water fording.
You're going to be hearing the term "TJ" quite a bit on this web site so I think it prudent to fill you in on exactly what it means. If you've been Jeepin' long, you've probably already heard the 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler called a TJ. This two-letter code name is simply the first two letters of the body style designation assigned by the manufacturer. In Canada, the Jeep Wrangler is designated simply as the Jeep TJ.
The Jeep Wrangler TJ is one of the most awesome production 4x4s. It is fun to drive, but it's also capable of handling virtually any terrain you may encounter. On the road, it offers car-like handling characteristics, at least when compared to earlier Jeeps. The Jeep Wrangler TJ is most at home, however, when navigating off-road trails and living up to its "Trail Rated" badge.
The Jeep Wrangler TJ was introduced in 1997; one year after the Wrangler YJ was discontinued. The TJ experienced a 10-year production run that included three different engines and eight transmission offerings. The most refined TJs came in the later years, so owners of earlier models may find their TJs to be a bit deficient in engine power and transmission strength. However, the chassis and suspension components remained largely unchanged. The same goes for the interior and exterior, which received minor changes and improvements through the years.
Despite the Wrangler's off-road prowess right out of the box, it does have its limitations when it comes to conquering more extreme trails. Those of you who have traveled off the pavement in your Wrangler have likely experienced these limitations. A stock Wrangler performs well through a variety of terrain, but if you take on obstacles that are taller than the suspension can flex, you'll probably be looking at some damage. Tire size is typically the first improvement TJ owners make, and upsizing is one of the most common upgrades. Larger tires are often paired with a suspension or body lift for the correct fit, and engine performance and axle gearing usually follow shortly thereafter. The best part all of these components and more are abundantly available from a variety of after-market parts manufacturers, giving you the choice to build up your Wrangler TJ just about any way you like.