High-Performance Jeep Wrangler TJ Builder's Guide 1997-2006 (Cartech) (Cartech)

Great book for Jeep Lovers! (2008-01-14) Rating: 5/5
I bought this book as a gift for my son who had just bought a Jeep. He had asked for this book, it is very informative.
How to build up a TJ - by yzergod (2007-06-27) Rating: 4/5
This book is quite informative, especially for somebody new to Jeeps and the TJ in particular. There is a lot of good info for building up a TJ into a capable and reliable trail rig. The author is a bit vague on some of the specifics and the repercussions of some of the different "upgrades" he suggests. I do not share his thought on a Dana 60 being the end all-do all axle for a TJ. He often refers to the D60 and suggests buying one from a reputable builder. With built D60's specifically made to fit a TJ running in upwards of $10,000, this might not be exactly what the budget minded TJ owner (read most TJ owners) can afford or would want to use for a replacement axle. Also, the author speaks negatively about the factory D35 and sometimes of the D44's. These axles can be built to withstand all but the hardcore wheeler.

There is a good amount of info about the special editions and what came on each Jeep, as is there about most of the popular upgrades. I would have liked to see more info about installing some of these upgrades. For example, he mentions LED taillights but does not mention that in the TJ's you'll need to modify or replace the relay or the LED turn signals will blink rapidly. This was the factory's way of letting you know a turn signal bulb was burnt out. Another example would be in the mention of using an Onboard Air system. He shows examples of each type, but does not explore that the average TJ owner can build one using junkyard parts for a fraction of the cost.

There is a lot of different ways Christian Lee could have gone with this book and I am a bit disappointed that he basically compiled information from his magazines that I already knew. I guess with his background, I was expecting a TJ do-it-yourself model kit type instruction manual that walked me through making my TJ a reliable offroad machine worthy of an article in his magazine. All in all though, it is a useful and informative book that I have enjoyed going through a couple of times. I can't help but think that with the author's background and access to information, he could have written a true "builders" guide instead of this "information guide".

BTW, I believe in putting my money where my mouth is. So, to back up my criticisms of this book (which I bought, enjoyed, and recommend) I invite fellow TJ owners to check out my rig and the upgrades I've done to it on my club's site at; [...].Hopefully, I can pay forward some of my knowledge in the same way Christian Lee has.
Another hit from SA Design (2007-05-13) Rating: 5/5
If you are interested in modifying your Jeep TJ for better performance off-road, then this book is for you. This guide takes you step-by-step through the process and gives plenty of options and advice, so that you can customise your own build up. It also explains the principles involved in the modifications from a technical standpoint, but in a very down-to-earth manner. It is well-illustrated with color photos, and there are lots of sidebars with really great information. At the end is a helpful appendix containing sources for parts and services of all types for off-roaders and jeep owners. This is the second SA Design manual I have purchased and they are really great. Even if you don't own a Jeep, I think there is a lot to be gained from these well-written and organised manuals.
Beginners only (2007-05-13) Rating: 3/5
If you are looking for any technical info or precise measurements or product testing LOOK SOMEWHERE ELSE. The book is a good read if you just want someone's opinion regarding what they like; with no dyno or testing to back it up. If you are a beginner or just getting started on your project, this is the place to start, and it provides some good suggestions.