Episode 984 – Is the Wrangler Doomed?
Is the Jeep Wrangler Doomed?
If you are considering buying a 2024 Wrangler, and Jeep wishes you would, you might like to know that the 2024 Wrangler has prices that are $205–$5,100 higher than the 2023 model, but in some cases, it’s $485 less.
The UAW strike produced a document talking about Jeep’s plan to release an all-electric Jeep Wrangler in 2028, but will offer a hybrid model that uses a gas engine as a generator to charge your battery pack “on the go”
The Jeep Gladiator could be a hybrid next year, as in a plug-in hybrid like the Wrangler 4xe. It is not clear if the Gladiator will continue in any form after 2028. If Gladiator sales don’t improve it’s always possible we could see it dropped from the lineup.
If you have a Gladiator, keep it if you can, it may be worth more than the 392 Wranglers in the future.
Jeep Mods
I was recently interviewed by Stacey David and he asked me what would I recommend to people who want to modify their Jeep.
I thought we’d talk about that here. Both Bill and I have done several modifications to our Jeeps and now we’re going to pass on to you what we think you should do.
Tow points. If your Jeep didn’t come with them, add some before going off-road. I think they are a good idea for on-road only as well, at least until they stop making mud or ditches.
Wheels, keep the ones you have, or buy ones with the factory diameter. That’s 17” on my 2021 Gladiator.
Rock sliders. Protect the bottom of your tube and doors from damage. And don’t get sliders that have steps. Steps will get torn off, or keep you from going forward.
Re-gear. If you go with a much taller, larger diameter, tire you’ll want to upgrade the ring and pinion in your axles to regain performance, mpg, and the ability to use the higher number of gears in your transmission on the highway and overpasses.
Jeep Talk Show Gladiator Update
Well, it finally happened. I painted and installed 50% of the Motobilt skid system on the 2021 Jeep Talk Show Gladiator. By far the most difficult part of this process was cleaning, sanding, and painting the skids.
The skid system is modular. There are four skids. The belly protects the transfer case and the back of the transmission.
Front skid that protects transmission cross-over exhaust engine and oil pan.
These are the two that I have prepped and installed. With these two skids, I have more protection that came from the factory.
This leaves me, and I’m not going to be in a hurry to install, the fuel cell skid, it’s partially covered by the bell skid. Then the exhaust skid. Yes, the exhaust! This means you’re more likely to drive back home from EJS with a fully intact exhaust system! Less nervous driving through those small towns with eager ticket-writing police!
I had read online guesses of how much the factory skids weigh. I read as much as 80 lbs. Maybe that included the fuel cell skid. I didn’t have to take that off for this skid system, what I did remove weighed 20 lbs.
The skid system fully installed is 240 lbs. I am not clear if that weight is shipping weight or installed weight.
I have been impressed with this skid system when I first saw it online. The build quality is beautiful and the holes lined up making installation a breeze, so far.
The only problem I have with it, no one will be able to see just how beautiful it is. I can see myself saying, “Lay under the Jeep and have a look! Here take this flashlight.”
Must-Have Stuff for Your Jeep!
WARSUN Led Work Light Rechargeable Magnetic Mechanic Light Portable Worklight for Camping Car Repairing 30w 1200 High Lumens Bright Yellow $19.99
The rechargeable work light delivers a maximum brightness of 1200LM, this 30W COB LED work light is powered by a rechargeable 3600mAh battery and features a USB port to charge your mobile or other devices. Crafted from durable aluminum alloy, it’s drop-resistant up to 4.9ft.
On tonight’s episode…
News story(s); Is the Wrangler Doomed? Jeep Gladiator Update; Skid System Install! Must have for your jeep; Led Work Light Rechargeable Magnetic Mechanic! #jeeptalkshow #jeep #jeeplife #jtschicchat