YJ

The first Wrangler ever made was similar to the CJ models (BUT DEFINETLY NOT A CJ), but the YJ is the first to wear the name Wrangler. The YJ was redesigned for comfort with better interior and dashboard changes. Over , YJ's were built in nine years.

The YJ has a 93.4 inch wheelbase and NP-207 transfer case, but after 1987 NP-231 was used. Dana 30 axles in front and 35's in rear. 1987 was the first year with air conditioning, windshield wipers, full locking doors, and locking glove box in Jeeps. 4 cyl engine was standard but a 4.2 was opt. between 1987 and 1990. 15 gal gas tank with 20 gal optional. 180 horsepower. Transmission types available are 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. Came with straight 6 and averaged 19/20 mpg. Yj's price went from $12,300-$22,900. In 1992 the roll cage was extended to allow for rear shoulder belts, and anti-lock brakes.

The YJ is lower and wider than the CJ. The YJ is the only Wrangler with square headlights and square turn signals mounted on the front bezel under the headlights, and that is the main reason no one "likes" them. Jeepers say that is the most stupidest thing AMC ever did. A YJ is an older Jeep inside a TJ's wrappings with square headlights.

Jeep enthusiasts did not look upon the YJ proudly. YJ replaced their much loved, but slower selling CJ. The YJ having less ground clearance and more comfort prompted som Jeepers to interpret the YJ as a "yuppie jeep," now i like to say it stands for "your jeep." (Even though they reall dont mean a thing.) The YJ was not seen as a "real" jeep by fans, but gradually it has won them over and proven to be capable and adaptable to the off-road world. There are quiet a few YJ's on the road today.

In 1987 AMC ended four decades of CJ Jeep production.The following year Chrysler/Jeep added a special edition Sahara model. By 1989, YJ had Islander.

The YJ shara, islander, lardeo and standard models each offered a 6-cylinder engine option. 1987- 90 sixes are the traditional seven main bearing 4.2L in line engine, one the industry's all-time toughest designs. (This engine served CJs from 1972 on and first appeared in 1965 J-truck/Wagoneers as a smaller 232 cubic inch version.

The weak link for a 258 six is the Carter BBD two-barrel carbueretor found on late 70's to 1990 engines.