Jeep Unveils Bronco
In this week’s Jeep Talk Show Flagship episode, we dive into an unexpected twist as Jeep reveals their very own “Bronco.” Is this true, or is it just a playful nod to their competitor? Join us as we discuss potential legal and industry impacts of this surprising move. Larry also shares his review of a budget-friendly plasma cutter, and Wendy talks about her all-time favorite tool, asking listeners to chime in with their own. It’s an episode full of humor, gear insights, and plenty of Jeep talk—don’t miss it!
Ford Bronco And Jeep Wrangler Get Power Soft Top From Bestop
Bestop will use the SEMA Show to introduce a power-retractable soft top for the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco.
The eTop can be raised or lowered in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button. The roof features triple-layer construction as well as tinted vinyl windows.
On episode 946 we interviewed Anja (An Ya) of MyTop about their retractable top, and if I recall they were coming out with one for the Bronco. I believe, at the time of the interview, their tops were in the $7k range. Checking it today it looks like most are just under $5k.
What do you think of an automatic retractable top? This really makes your Jeep, or Bronco a rag top.
Jeep unveils their EV Bronco, ahhhh Jeep
Jeep’s new Wrangler-inspired electric SUV is almost ready for its big debut. The new Jeep Recon EV was spotted with hardly any camouflage, revealing a new Ford Bronco look alike.
The Recon was first introduced in September 2022 as part of Jeep’s plans to launch four new EVs globally.
With its first global electric SUV, the luxury 2025 Wagoneer S, arriving at dealerships across the US in the next few weeks, we are finally getting a better look at Jeep’s next EV.
Jeep says the Recon is “inspired by the legendary Wrangler.” It will include options like removable doors and windows in tribute to the iconic off-road SUV. The electric SUV will play a big role as Jeep looks to revamp sales in the US.
In fact, with Jeep’s loyal fans, it could be an even bigger hit than the Wagoneer S. We got a sneak peek at the new Recon Moab 4xe after images leaked out of a dealer event last March.
We are now getting a closer look at the production model after the electric SUV was spotted with hardly any camouflage.
Not surprising that Jeep and Dodge factory workers are being cut
It’s a sad reality but if a company isn’t making money they have to sell more, make products cheaper, and/or decrease expenses. Certainly, employees are a major expense.
On top of cost-cutting measures that include offering white-collar employees voluntary buyouts, the automaker’s troubles also include massive inventory problems and scrutiny by dealers and the UAW for failing to meet their respective goals.
However, Stellantis is far from fully cushioning its fall, as its latest contribution to the madness affects some of its most well-known products.
The one-page note, titled “Important Notice of Layoff” informed plant workers that “no scheduled production” will take place at the factory from Oct. 28 through Nov. 1. Essentially, the factory, which makes the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs, will grind to a halt for those four days.
The note itself does not state a specific reason for the production shutdown, but according to Stellantis, about 5,096 workers represented by UAW Locals 7, 412, and 889 are located at the plant.
Jeep, Chrysler Dodge, and RAM may never be cheaper
Dealers flipped out and now Stellantis is trying to address both problems simultaneously. First, Stellantis told its dealers it’ll provide more money to help move cars and, indeed, the company reportedly just added a bunch of cash for “conquest” buyers who want certain Dodge, Jeep, or Ram products. Specifically, Stellantis is targeting Ford buyers who come over to get a Durango, Wrangler, Grand Wagoneer/Wagoneer, Grand Cherokee, or Ram 1500 with an extra $2,000.
Newbie Nuggets with Wendy
What’s your favorite item you have on board when you wheel?
We all have lots of tools, gadgets, recovery gear, and who knows what else on board if you wheel a lot. If you are new to wheeling, well buckle up because you WILL be adding items as you wheel more. Whether you hear a suggestion on the Jeep Talk show or you notice what your buddy has and you want one – Yeah It’s a Jeep Thing!
In previous episodes, we have shared all the tools to have on board. I thought it would be fun to pose the question to you the listener and our JTS team: If you had to pick only ONE item, what is your favorite item/tool that you have to have on board when you wheel and why? Email us and let us know – I’m always open to hearing about other things that I might need to add to our Jeep.
So for the JTS team, what is your one favorite item and why? I know it’s hard to narrow it down to just one.
My favorite tool on board is the soft shackle. I have done plenty of recoveries and training and I have to say the soft shackle is my favorite item. It’s easy to use, especially for me (woman). I don’t have to get a “tool” to loosen a D-ring (clevis). The metal shackles are good for some things, but most recoveries I use are soft shackles. Plus they are safer to use over the metal D-rings in case something breaks. Make sure you get an American-made product along with the highest rating you can find (i.e. 45,000lbs) and you will need 3 on board. Trust me on this. I like the Gear America product but we have used Rugged Ridge and Factor 55.
Reach out and let us know what your favorite item is.
https://factor55.com/product-category/soft-shackles/
https://ruggedridge.com/search/?q=soft%20shackels
Fabrication Freezy with Larry, JeepingMo
Plasma cutter
I reviewed a budget plasma cutter for use in your garage, we did some test cuts on different metals.
We tested it on some sheet metal, similar to the thickness on floor boards or body components.
We tested on ¼ and ½ thick materials also.
The name of the unit is Best Arc. They had reached out to me about reviewing the unit.
It can run off 110v or 220v, I ran it off 220v.
It does need a good 30A breaker for 110v. You will also need a source of compressed air.
The unit is normally $249, and I have seen it on sale below $200. It would be good for cutting off brackets or frame mods.
I even show how to gouge with it.
You can find the review on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@JeepingMo and a link to the plasma cutter.
Must-Have Stuff for Your Jeep!
2018+ Jeep JL JT Gladiator/Wrangler Steerable Knuckle Light Mounts Regular price$119.99
Knuckle Pod Mounts are revolutionary Steerable Light Brackets that are engineered to bolt to your steering knuckles to enhance your on and off-road visibility and safety by synchronizing your fog lights with your steering wheel movements. This allows better and wider visibility when turning in dark areas (especially with tinted windows), flexing out on obstacles, or simply driving down back roads at night.
https://gatekeeperoffroad.com/products/jeep-jl-jt-knuckle-pod-mounts