After two winters of ownership, I have come to realize that there is a Wrangler windshield defroster issue. A quick search on the internet reveals that both Wrangler JK and JL owners seem to be experiencing the same issue, as is evident in online forums. The problem is illustrated below and in this video. Among the various options for mods to address this issue, the results from my mod are also shown below.
An Illustration of the Wrangler Windshield Defroster Issue
The image below is a simulated image of the problem I was experiencing, as I installed my mod prior to thinking of taking a picture. Essentially, the defroster would only defrost the centre of the windshield and ice would build up towards the edges while driving.
Experiencing this defrost pattern in my Jeep Wrangler JL was surprising, given that the defrost vents at the bottom of the windshield extend from the lower driver’s side corner to the lower passenger side.
Thus, even with the existence of the defrost vent holes, a defrost heat pattern illustrated below appears to be what is happening to explain this Jeep Wrangler windshield defrost issue.
Online Evidence of the Wrangler Windshield Defrost Issue
A careful online search of “Wrangler Windshield Defrost Issue” reveals a multitude of posts in many Forums addressing this issue.
A careful read through the posts will offer a number Jeep Wrangler owners solutions or hacks for solving this issue. It was after careful review and consideration that I chose my solution
My Windshield Defroster Hack
Although the forum has many suggestions to pick from, I chose to cover the central vents with a piece of flat aluminum bar ⅛” thick by 1” wide by 19” long. I drilled holes about every 2”, and then spray painted it with satin black wood stove paint. The bar would be held in place with toggle bolts. A short or shallow handled screwdriver was needed due to the windshield being present. These bolts had to be cut a couple inches short to be able to fit into the vent without obstruction, and are tricky to use. Zip ties would also suffice.
The intent of this design was to have a baffle of sorts that would permit some heat up the centre through the holes, but direct more heat towards the side vents, as illustrated below.
Test Results
Initial defroster baffle results were promising as they showed successful diversion of flow towards the sides of the windshield. Defrosting of the outer edges is a big deal, as dangerous build up of ice would occur in this area.
The whole windshield eventually thawed, but there is still a desire to have the whole windshield defrost at the same rate. The areas in front of the passenger and driver did not defrost as quickly as the centre and outer edges. The intent will be to shorten the baffle by a few inches and test again.
Conclusion
The Jeep Wrangler windshield defrost issue is something many Jeep Wrangler JK and JL owners are experiencing, as noted in many online forums. Many different DIY hacks have been successfully implemented, as mentioned in said forums. However, one recent post mentioned that a defroster related part behind the dash was discovered to be either not-connected or constricted, and was repaired under warranty. So if you still have warranty left, you may want to investigate this solution before attempting a diy hack.
Changing your Wrangler JL cabin air filter, and the 3.6L engine air filter is just part of routine maintenance. However, if you are driving your Jeep on back roads and trails, you would be prudent to check their condition well before the standard engine and cabin air filter change intervals. Knowing how to do your own Jeep air filter change will not only help you with this preventative maintenance item, but it will also help you save some money. This article, and this video, will illustrate the steps involved, and help you save money as well.
Wrangler JL Cabin Air Filter(mopar 68301863AA):
Wrangler JL 3.6L Engine Air Filter(mopar 68257030AA):
Jeep Air Filter Change: Cabin Air Filter
No matter which JL you have, changing the cabin air filter is the same process. The filter keeps the internal workings of your HVAC system of your Jeep clean, and also contributes to dust control in the Jeep. The latter of which may be a mute point for the hard core off-roaders.
The following steps will illustrate how easy it is to do this yourself. Knowing how to do this will encourage you to check it whenever you like to determine if it needs to be replaced or not.
The cabin air filter you need is (mopar 68301863AA).
Steps:
1- Open the glove box, and release the dampener lever on the left side. This can be done by lifting on the lever near where its attached to the glove box until you hear it click, then slip it off the peg.
2-Press up on the tab at the back of the glove box to allow it to swing down.
3-Squeeze the two tabs together at the left of the cabin air filter housing cover to release the panel cover.
4-Reach into the filter box, squeeze it leftwards, to allow you to pull it out of the restrictive opening.
5-Insert the new filter, ensuring that the air flow arrows point downward.
6-Place the panel cover on the opening, and slide the tab on its right side towards the right to be seated properly, allowing the left tabs to click into place when pushed in.
7-Close the glove box, remembering to reattach the dampener on the left side.
Jeep Engine Air Filter Change for the 3.6L Pentastar
If you have the 3.6L Pentastar in your JL, the part number for the engine air filter is (mopar 68257030AA). Keeping your engine air filter clean will help your engine run properly and efficiently. As we observed in this Wrangler JL Fuel Efficiency video, you can enjoy great fuel economy with the 3.6L Pentastar, so it’s worth looking after the engine air filter. To check the condition or replace your engine air filter on the JL Wrangler with the 3.6L Pentastar, there are only a few simple steps that you need to follow:
Steps:
1-You will need to have a ratchet, extension, and 8 mm socket
2- Loosen the clamp on the air box hose. Do not undo it, just loosen it a bit so you can slip off the air box. Then loosen the 4 air box screws. Do not unscrew them all the way out, just loosen them from the bottom of the air box, but leave them in the top portion.
3-Pull off the top portion of the air box, then inspect or remove the engine air filter.
4. Install a new engine air filter if required, then connect the top portion of the air box, to the air box hose by lining up the tab on the hose to the space on the neck of the box.
5. Tighten the four screws that are still in the top portion of the air box, into the lower portion of the air box.
Conclusion
By knowing how to inspect and change these air filters you will be ensuring the proper functioning of your HVAC and engine systems. Not to mention, saving money that you can spend on other things for your Jeep.
Fuel efficiency is just one of the many areas of which the JL was improved. This article, and this video, will review the fuel efficiency of a 2018 Wrangler JL Sahara Unlimited, with the 3.6L Pentastar engine and the 8 speed automatic transmission. Aerodynamic, the use of weight saving materials, engine and transmission improvements can mostly be attributed to improved fuel efficiency results.
Aerodynamic Improvements
Albeit slight, there are some improvements in the JL’s aerodynamic design that contribute to improved fuel efficiency results.
Front Grill & Hood
The front grill has an increased rake halfway up the grill, and a bulge on the hood. At a glance, these barely noticeable alterations to the front end design contribute to a rounding of the front end of the Jeep Wrangler JL. This more aerodynamic front end shape was absent in the previous Jeep Wrangler JK design.
Front Windshield Angle
The rake, or recline angle of the front windshield of the Wrangler JL was also increased. In comparison to the more vertical windshield of the Wrangler JK, the Wrangler JL would be more aerodynamically efficient with this increased rake angle.
The Use of Lighter Materials
For the first time in the Jeep Wrangler lineup, aluminum hood, fenders, doors, and tailgate panels were used. Among other items made with aluminum,the intent of increased use of light-weight aluminum in the construction of the JL was to aid in the improvement in fuel efficiency.
Transmission Improvements
For the first time in the Jeep Wrangler line up, a ZF eight speed automatic transmission was offered, with the intention of improving ride performance, as well as improving fuel efficiency.
Engine Improvements
In 2018 Jeep had released a smaller 2L Turbo engine to provide more fuel efficiency, but changes to the existing 3.6L Pentastar were also made in an effort to improve fuel efficiency over the previous 3.6L in the Wrangler JK. The highlights of these changes are featured in the graphic below, and can be studied further at this forum.
Real Life Jeep Wrangler JL Fuel Efficiency Results
However, can all of the above changes in aerodynamic design, use of weight saving materials, engine and transmission improvements result in significant improvement in fuel efficiency results? The results below show samples of real life outcomes from weekend trip up north. The type of driving essentially consists of some driving through towns, but mostly highway driving on secondary highways and super highways with speeds ranging between 80 to 100 kms per hour.
The graphic below highlights some impressive fuel efficiency numbers experienced in my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Sahara with the 3.6L Pentastar engine. The results are in L/100 kms, mpg(Imp), and mpg(US).
In an effort to take a more scientific approach, I filled my tank, drove my weekend trip up north and back for the weekend, and recorded my milage and fuel consumption to hand calculate my fuel efficiency. The graphic below illustrates my hand calculated results.
Essentially, I did a 646.7 km trip up north and back and averaged 31 mpg(Imp), 26 mpg(US).
When I compare my hand calculated results to the trip computer, they are fairly consistent.
Thus, it would appear that the aerodynamic improvements, the use of weight saving materials, engine and transmission improvements made to the Wrangler JL, have resulted in improved fuel efficiency, as observed by this author.
In all vehicles, over time the parking brake cable stretches and needs to be adjusted. This article will address the Jeep Wrangler JL parking brake adjustment required from the stretch of said cable. Wear of the parking brake shoes is a different procedure and not addressed in this article. The Wrangler JL parking brake adjustment is also viewed in this video.
DISCLAIMER: Any and all content provided on this site and YouTube channel is Cheaper JeeperTV’s opinion and for educational and discussion purposes only. Seek a professional’s advice where appropriate for your vehicle.
Accessing the Wrangler JL Parking Brake Adjustment Mechanism
Accessing the Wrangler JL parking brake adjustment mechanism can be done in two ways. One way is extensive and involves removing the entire center console completely. A simpler way, as will be described below, will be done by removing only 4 bolts, and simply raising the rear of the center console to adjust the parking brake mechanism. Also, as seen in this video.
Remove the Four External Bolts of the Console
Find the four external bolts located at each corner of the center console. Two are on the front and rear of the console on the driver’s side, and the other two are on the passenger’s side. Remove the plastic cover with a flathead screwdriver, panel tool or pic. Then remove the bolt using a 10 mm socket.
Raise the Rear Of the Centre Console to Access The Adjustment Mechanism
Once the four bolts at the side of the center console are removed, simply lift the rear of the console to access the adjustment mechanism.
The adjustment mechanism is made of two parking brake cables that attach to a bracket which can be adjusted by turning the center bolt, as seen below, in a clockwise direction.
Having a deep 10 mm socket and ratchet with an extension will help in this regard.
After turning the adjustment bolt clockwise a couple turns, test the looseness of the parking brake handle, when put down, in the released position. You don’t want to make the cable too tight, as this will engage the parking brake with the handle in the released position. Pull up on the parking brake handle, about 7 clicks and let it stay that way for about a minute, then test again for any slack by releasing it into the disengaged position. If there is any slack after this, adjust the bolt to take up any slack. Once the hand brake handle is not sloppy or loose, you can reinstall the four outer bolts and caps on the centre console.
Conclusion
This DIY Wrangler JL parking brake adjust procedure requires few tools, can be easily done in little time, and can save you some money. The money saved can go towards some other things you’ve been eyeing for your Jeep.
A Jeep Wrangler windshield replacement is almost a right of passage for any Jeep Wrangler owner. In fact it’s something that is common along all lines of the Wrangler, due to its iconic shape. With the vertical windshield, a stone is more likely to cause a chip or a crack. This article shares some strategies to get a Jeep Wrangler windshield replacement done conveniently and inexpensively, as can be viewed in this video as well.
DISCLAIMER: Any and all content provided on this site and YouTube channel is Cheaper JeeperTV’s opinion and for educational and discussion purposes only. Seek a professional’s advice where appropriate for your vehicle.
Convenience – Where to Get A Jeep Wrangler Windshield Replacement
You can get a windshield replacement for your Jeep Wrangler at any common auto glass franchises, but there is another option. Careful review online, in your area, for mobile Windshield Installers will alert you to a mobile windshield installer who can offer the service inexpensively, due to their lack of overhead. Not only will the installation be less expensive, but the installer can come right to your driveway, or place of work to perform the task.
Expense – OEM vs Aftermarket Jeep Wrangler Windshields
The choice you’re given when needing to install a new windshield is whether or not you wish to have an OEM or an aftermarket windshield. OEM windshields will be more expensive than an aftermarket one, but THAT is almost the only difference. For the Jeep Wrangler, the OEM windshield is said to have the Jeep logo and easter egg on it, of the 1941 jeep in the lower right passenger corner. It’s also marketed as having “Acoustic” glass. This is a feature marketed as a sound deadening item. The aftermarket windshield will not have the logo on it, but is also labelled as acoustic glass, as it is a thin film of plastic on the glass. I found even the mobile installers may not share that tidbit, in the hopes that you might be swayed into purchasing the more expensive OEM glass. This perhaps has a bigger margin of profit. Given that other than the logo, the two windshields are practically the same, I chose to realize the over $100 worth of savings, and forgo the logo. In fact, I can easily order a vinyl sticker of one online for a few dollars if I miss it that bad…which I haven’t.
Conclusion
Thus, by choosing to go with the mobile Jeep Wrangler windshield replacement option, I was able to have the convenience of having the job done in my own driveway. The installer’s lack of overhead resulted in a reduced cost for me, and so did selecting the aftermarket windshield option, which is practically identical to the OEM, minus the logo easter egg. With the over $100 that I saved, I can buy some other needed things for my Jeep.
DISCLAIMER: Any and all content provided on this site and YouTube channel is Cheaper JeeperTV’s opinion and for educational and discussion purposes only. Seek a professional’s advice where appropriate for your vehicle.
It has become apparent that after only 2 years of ownership, that my Wrangler JL has developed a corrosion/paint issue. The main issue appears to be where the hinges meet the door panels. I’ll share with you what I’ve read online on Jeep Wrangler Forums and FaceBook groups and share; i) the difference between corrosion and rust, ii) some suggested possible reasons for this unacceptable condition for a relatively new vehicle, iii) the potential warranty concerns for owners iv) if it appears that others are experiencing the same issue, v) FCA’s recognition of the same condition in their other vehicles, and vi) finally discuss what are the options. This information would be of interest to any of you considering buying a JL, or keeping your JL for the long term, and the potential impact on the resale value should you plan on selling your JL. This information can also be viewed in this CheaperJeeperTV episode.
Evidence of My Jeep Wrangler JL Corrosion Issue
Below are images that illustrate examples of the corrosion appearing in only 2 years of ownership of my new Jeep Wrangler JL.
The Difference Between Corrosion and Rust
When discussing the possible Jeep Wrangler JL Corrosion Issue, it is important to understand that all metals, like aluminum can corrode when exposed to air and impurities. This process is also referred to as oxidation. Rust specifically is a term used when discussing corrosion where the oxidation taking place is occurring is metal that contains iron. Given that the possible oxidation issue being discussed in this article involves aluminum hinges and door panels, the term corrosion is used, and not the term rust. Either way, in a relatively new vehicle, corrosion should not be presenting itself as an issue so early in the days of ownership.
Some Possible Reasons for My Jeep Wrangler JL Corrosion Issue
The Jeep Wrangler JL hinges are made of aluminum, and so are the hood, door and tailgate panels. Essentially during assembly, the bare metal hinges are assembled to the bare panels, and then the whole assembly gets painted. There is no material to act as a barrier to the bare mated metal surfaces, but they are sealed by the paint job. It can be suggested that perhaps the seal of the paint may get compromised, allowing exposure to environmental contaminants such as salt or brine, leading to corrosion.
Another possible source of contamination between the bare mated metal surfaces of hinge and door panels, may actually occur in the factory at time of assembly. It has been suggested that any metal dust floating in the air, especially in an auto assembly environment, can land on the metal surfaces then get sealed by the paint job. Manufacturers such as Audi for example build a separate facility where any aluminum metal fabrication is occurring, to avoid such contamination of any aluminum surfaces.
Some say that the primer may not have been applied properly.
Another suggested culprit is something called galvanic corrosion, which is where two dissimilar metals react with each other. In the case of the Jeep Wrangler JL hinges, the hinge is aluminum, but the bolt securing the hinge to the panel is coated steel.
Either way, no matter if one can agree to where the source of contamination is or not, it “is” happening on my Jeep Wrangler JL, and as you will read below, I am not alone in experiencing this issue.
Warranty Concerns
In Canada the Corrosion Warranty is 5 years/ 160,000 kms. In the US it is 5 years/ Unlimited Miles. If I take my Wrangler JL in for corrosion repairs, should they occur after 160,000 kms, I am on my own, unlike in the US, where the corrosion warranty will be honoured for as long as I own the vehicle. The absence of salt use on most of the roads in the US may explain this difference in Warranty policy.
Another warranty concern that has comes to mind is in any language around corrosion warranty involving the term perforation. Aluminum corrosion will build up on the surface, which ultimately protects the aluminum, hence it will not perforate. The paint won’t stay on your Jeep, but it won’t be perforated.
Are There Others Experiencing This Same Jeep Wrangler JL Corrosion Issue
Careful review of online Jeep Wrangler Forums and FaceBook Group discussions will reveal what appears to me as a significant number of surprised and dare I say unsatisfied Jeep Wrangler JL owners, who share their experience after even less time and miles of ownership than myself. Some search examples are found below. Clicking on the examples below will take you to the forum discussions. Review of the numerous entries suggests that I am not alone in this matter.
FCA’s Recognition of the Same Condition in Their Other Vehicles
FCA had put out a Technical Service Bulletin, with instruction of how to address aluminum corrosion issues in some of their other vehicles. The Wrangler JL is on this list. With vehicles as early as 2013 on this list of vehicles with aluminum corrosion issues, it makes me wonder when it is hoped that this corrosion issue will be resolved.
What Are the Options to Address My Jeep Wrangler JL Corrosion Issue
Given that I have a Jeep Wrangler JL Corrosion issue, what are my options? Currently, I am having the paint bubbling-corrosion issue at the hinges repaired under warranty. If, as some posts suggest, should the corrosion reappear after 160,000kms, I would be on my own to address this. JL owners in the US have unlimited miles on their corrosion warranty, and you would think that they might be able to have their door hinge corrosion issue corrected under that unlimited miles warranty. A member on a Jeep Wrangler Facebook group suggested the application of door hinge covers might help address, at least the appearance of this issue, should it appear again later.
The article at this link also provides some tips for anyone wishing to address the galvanic corrosion concern.
I could also consider selling my Jeep Wrangler JL and buy a new Ford Bronco, but there is no guarantee that it won’t have the same aluminum corrosion and paint issue. For example, Ford has had a Class Action Lawsuit launched against it for aluminum corrosion issues of their own.
Conclusion
My Jeep Wrangler JL corrosion issue is something that has been shared by many other Jeep Wrangler JL owners on online Forums and Jeep Facebook groups. If you were someone thinking of buying one you would be wise to inform yourself with current owner experiences and concerns. Read some of the online posts in the links shared above so that you can make an informed decision as to whether you wish to purchase a Jeep Wrangler JL or not. This issue will impact my resale value if I were to consider selling my Jeep, and may cost me more money for repairs down the road.
As for the comment “It’s A Jeep Thing”…This is not a piece of trim that doesn’t fit right, or a bad rattle somewhere that you can’t find. I think in this case, after charging so much for a new JL, well, this is a little too much too early.
Commercial hard top hoists are available online for those who frequently remove their hard tops to enjoy driving their Jeeps in that fashion. However, an inexpensive DIY Jeep Hard Top Hoist would fit the bill for those Jeep Wrangler owners who only on occasion remove their hard tops, and do not feel it’s worth the investment of the more expensive commercial varieties. Such a hoist can be seen on this video, as described below. Many commercial examples for review online, and other DIY ideas can be found on Amazon, and online forums.
Materials Required for an Inexpensive Jeep Hard Top Hoist
Hoist Straps
Some DIY Hoist ideas involve the use of ratchet straps, which can be purchased inexpensively online, or at your local box stores. The issue that some find with these types of straps is the difficulty involved in releasing the strap to lower the hard top in a controlled fashion.
An equally inexpensive strap solution is the use of cam straps. Similarly, these straps can be purchased inexpensively online, or at your local box stores. However, these straps have the advantage of allowing one to lower the hard top in a controlled fashion, by depressing the button on the strap when pulling on it to lift the top, or releasing the strap when lowering the top.
Installation of an Inexpensive Jeep Hard Top Hoist
If using either of the above straps, they must be secured to the joists in your garage ceiling. The installation in the first image below, shows how a bar was used to connect to the joists, then the straps were placed in the optimum location on the bar to hook into the hard top. Another option would be to secure a 2×6 to the joists, and then secure the straps in their optimum location by screwing into the 2×6, as in the second image below.
Connecting the Inexpensive Hard Top Hoist to the Hard Top
With this set up, one merely needs to back into their garage, then on each side hook the straps in the rear corner, and near the front of the hard top, as shown in the image below. Care should be taken when hooking into the hard top, by using some cloth or foam. At this point one can just lift each corner of the top by pulling on the strap. Each strap can be lifted a little at a time until you are satisfied with the height. Conversely, when lowering the hard top back onto the jeep, one simply needs to press the cam button while holding tension on the strap, and gently lower each corner a little at a time, until it rests back onto the tub of the Jeep.
Other Subscriber Examples of an Inexpensive DIY Hard Top Hoist
Below are other examples of inexpensive DIY Hard Top Hoists.
The one below has the top resting on 2×4 lumber, and rope ratchets are used to raise and lower the hart top.
Most Jeep owners will also remove the doors when removing the hard top to get the full open air experience. Instructions for door removal are available online, but there are some tips that you may want to be aware of in the discussion below, and you will also find more tips online in some forums.
Paint Protection
When removing or installing door hinge bolts, you may want to use some masking tape in key spots to protect the paint from possible scratches by the tools.
Bolt Storage
Although some are aware that there is a storage tray at the rear of the cargo area in which one can store the door hinge bolts, it’s interesting to note that should you wish to store the door detent bolts, the spaces meant for the windshield bolts, can be used for the detent bolts if you were inclined to use them.
Door Storage
There are many options available for storage of the doors when they get removed. The most inexpensive option that offers your doors protection is to purchase two pool noodles, cut each of them in half and then up the middle. With each piece, slip them under the bottom door edge, and then lay them up against the wall.
Some may prefer to make a DIY door cart to carry the 4 doors and two freedom top panels. The cart can be constructed on wheels in order to move it around where needed.
Conclusion
As was evident in this article, there are many ways to have an inexpensive hard top hoist. Also, there are low cost solutions to protect your Jeep, and doors from damage in the process. If you’re only going to remove the hard top once in a while, considering inexpensive solutions as addressed in this article and this video, will leave you more money left over, to possibly get more other things for your Jeep.
Transfer Case and Differential Oil Changes are an important and regular part of the Jeep Wrangler’s maintenance schedule. The rotation imparted on the drive shaft by the engine and transmission is managed through gears in the transfer case, and subsequently through gears in the rear and front differentials to move the Jeep. Lubrication and regular changing of the oil in these systems will keep them running properly and for a long time.
Similarities in Transfer Case and Differential Oil Changes
There are some similarities in the transfer case and differential oil changes procedure. Essentially, the fill and drain bolts are removed to evacuate the old oil, then the drain bolt is reinserted, and the transfer case or differentials are refilled with new oil, up to the fill hole. Detailed instructions, identifying the tools and procedure are covered in this video.
Differences
Some differences in the transfer case and differential oil changes procedure are the type of oil used in each gear system, and the transfer case has different fill and drain bolts.
Different Jeep Wranglers can have different axles with different options, so one should check with the dealer to ensure you are selecting the proper grade oil for your transfer case and differential oil changes.
Cost Savings
The following table is a sample breakdown of the part numbers, costs, grade of and amount of oil for the rear and front differentials, and the transfer case for a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Sahara, with the Limited Slip Differential, that is also used to tow a small trailer.
What is evident in the graphic is the significant cost savings realized when this work is done as a do-it-yourself proposition. What also becomes apparent is the satisfaction that comes from looking after your own Jeep…but saving over $400.00 feels good too!
If you would be interested in saving up to $400 on maintenance costs on your Jeep, you may want to watch this video which reviews the actual process of changing the oil of the transfer case and differentials in a Jeep Wrangler JL Sahara.
The Wrangler JL rear seat removal can be done for a few reasons, and it is a relatively simple process. Models such as the Sahara, which have the additional gap cover flap, require an additional step to the process and this is covered in the instructions below, and in this video.
DISCLAIMER: Any and all content provided on this site and YouTube channel is Cheaper JeeperTV’s opinion and for educational and discussion purposes only. Seek a professional’s advice where appropriate for your vehicle.
Reasons for the Wrangler JL Rear Seat Removal
There are a few reasons why some people would like to remove the rear seats on their Jeep Wrangler:
To install a Rear Seat Tilt Kit. Depending on the brand, rear seat tilt kits will require removal and/or loosening of rear seat bolts in order to insert the shims.
To provide increased cargo carrying capacity. In this application, there are commercially available platforms to provide a flat surface over the footwell area.
To install Jeep Camping Sleeping Platforms, such as the one designed on Cheaper Jeeper TV.
Instructionsforthe Wrangler JL Rear Seat Removal
A video on Cheaper Jeeper TV is available that demonstrates the Jeep Wrangler rear seat removal process.
To provide an idea of the big picture, the image below shows where all the anchor points are, or where bolts must be removed as part of the Jeep Wrangler JL back seat removal process.
It is recommended that if you plan to leave the rear seat out for a period of time, that you reinstall the bolts, as the holes are open to the underside of the tub, and water can possibly get into the Jeep.
Step 1. If your model has a gap cover flap, use a leverage tool, or claw of a hammer to pry off the gap cover flap. This can be done by wedging the claw of the hammer between the flap and the metal plate beneath it and then lifting the gap cover free of the alligator pins which connect the plate to the tabs in the gap cover.
Step 2. Remove the two nuts and one bolt now visible behind the rear seat, using an 18 mm socket. Also remove the metal plate with the alligator clips if your model included the gap cover. Use needle nose pliers to bend down the teeth of the alligator clips to permit easy reinstallation of the plastic tabs of the gap cover later.
Step 3. Using the 18 mm socket, remove the four bolts of the front legs of the rear seat.
Step 4. Use rope or some cord to hold up both sections of the rear seat to allow access to the rear seat bolts and two seat belt bolts located underneath, at the back.
Step 5. There is a bracket that joins the 60% and 40% portions of the seat. A zip tie must be removed, and the 15mm bolt that secures one of the seat belts must be removed to free the seat belt harness. This will allow you to folt both sections of the rear seat up, to provide easy removal.
Step 6. Tie up the two sections of the rear seat and lift it out of either the side door or rear hatch opening.
Step 7. Reverse the steps to reinstall the rear seats, using the following torque specs.
The Jeep Wrangler JL back seat removal is a relatively simple process. It requires little more than a couple of hand tools. With the rear seat removed you have a significant amount of cargo carrying capacity. You can level off the floor at the footwell area with commercially available products by SpringTail Solutions and GoosGear. You can also install a DIY platform. If you’re thinking of removing the rear seat to use your Jeep for camping purposes, be sure to check out the Jeep Camping Sleeping Platform Design on CheaperJeeperTV.
A Jeep Basic brake service is something the conscientious Jeep owner can do themselves if it’s deemed necessary upon inspection. It can also be a task done regularly every spring, as part of an annual spring cleanup and maintenance routine. It is easy to do, and makes for an easy way to save money and hassle.
DISCLAIMER: Any and all content provided on this site and YouTube channel is Cheaper JeeperTV’s opinion and for educational and discussion purposes only. Seek a professional’s advice where appropriate for your vehicle.
Materials for a DIY Jeep Basic Brake Service.
The tools, parts and torque specs are similar to what is required when you rotate your tires, as the tires must be removed to get access to the brakes to service. In addition to those tools, a 13 mm lug nut, ratchet and small pick and brushes would also be required. The lug nut will be needed to tighten the calliper bolts to 27 ft. lbs during the service, and a silicone based grease will be needed for the callipers, and synthetic brake grease for other parts of the clipper system will be needed.
The Components Involved in a Jeep Basic Brake Service
The image below shows a picture of a rear passenger Jeep Wrangler JL Sahara’s back brakes. It also has a graphic labelling all the basic components.
The next image illustrates which components on the brake system receive service during the Jeep basic brake service.
Essentially, as illustrated in the above diagram, during the Jeep basic brake service, the calliper pins are to be lubricated with a silicone based calliper grease, and the parts of the calliper that come into contact with the brake pads are to be lubricated with a synthetic grease.
Jeep Basic Brake Service Instructions (As seen on CheaperJeeperTV)
Jack up the Jeep safely with a floor jack and secure the jeep with jack stands
Remove the two calliper bolts to remove the calliper.
Place or hang the calliper out of the way, being careful not to stretch or damage the brake line.
Remove the two calliper pins.
Use a cloth to clean the two calliper pins, and the hole where the pins are inserted into the calliper.
Apply a synthetic calliper grease in the two calliper boots and onto the two callipers.
Reinstall the two cleaned and freshly lubricated calliper pins and boots into the holes of the calliper from which they were taken.
Remove the two brake pads.
Brush clean the two calliper slide brackets on which the pads slide.
Apply a synthetic grease to the back sides and upper and lower ends of the brake pads, which make contact with the calliper.
Reinstall the brake pads.
Slide the calliper back onto the assembly.
Reinstall the two 13 mm calliper bolts to a torque setting of 27 ft lbs.
Conclusion
The Jeep Basic Brake Service is a simple process which involves only a few tools and materials. Doing this service as a proactive measure, will save you hassles in breakdowns, and money in brake repair and replacement costs
