I'm in the process of purchasing a 2006 Rubicon and have a few questions. I have always loved the TJ model, especially the 4.0 I6 engine and 6 speed manual transmission. I finally found one that was in decent shape and have made an offer (fingers crossed). This is just a weekend cruiser and will not be my daily driver.

Questions:

- There is some surface rust on the underbelly, nothing alarming to my family mechanic. Any recommendations on what I should do on this front? For example, worth taking it somewhere to have it sanded and repainted.

- It has a soft top and I'd like to buy a bikini top. Any brands/models that you would recommend or any to stay away from?

- I'm considering taking out the carpet, etc. and rhino lining the floor. Again, any pros/cons with this? My logic is trying to prevent any water (rain) damage that may come from having it topless most of the time.

- Anything else you would recommend for consideration in terms of modifications, improvements, etc.?

I appreciate any and all feedback.

KatyAggie2000 said:

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I have always loved the TJ model, especially the 4.0 I6 engine and 6 speed manual transmission. I

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That goes away when you try to drive it on the highway or need to fill it up with gas after 100 miles.

We just rolled 32K miles on our '06. I do an annual oil change which is typically about 2K miles and it never ceases to amaze me how much rust there is considering it is garage kept and has only seen rain a handful of times. I hit it with LPS3 corrosion inhibitor in a few key spots to keep it at bay. Wet Okole seat covers are a good idea. As far as lifts go, keep the tires around 34" or that engine really becomes a dog. Also, don't use automotive products on the dash. Just clean it with a damp cloth or you will strip some of the surface coating

We've got a frameless soft top on ours. It's bestops cheaper brand but love it. Front flips back easily and comes completely off in 2 minutes and can be stored over the wheel wells so if you need if the weather shifts it's there.

https://www.quadratec.com/

Open up your wallet

It sounds like you want to go bikini top and doorless most of the year which is a hell of a lot of fun. If that's the vision I would rhino the floors and remove the drain plugs. I did that to my JKU years ago and never regretted it. It's louder and the floor is hotter to your foot if you wear flip flops a lot or drive barefoot. I did the rhino after enough rain that the carpets started to mold and smell bad. Keep a couple of the cheap sports seat cushions somewhere inside so that when it rains while you're inside HEB you have something dry to sit on.

another vote for spiderwebshade instead of bikini top. had one on a JK and it was great.

Pics of this TJ please


Also, I might be interested in buying your soft top if it's for sale.

Depending on how big the surface rust is, you could always paint it with POR15.