Hello, I found this group on Facebook and am hoping this is the right place to post. I have been looking to purchase a JK Rubicon and am not quite sure where to start. I have never owned a jeep before and need some advice on the differences between the 07-18 JK unlimited Rubicon models. Do all of the rubicon models in this year range come with front and rear lockers and Dana 44 axles? Are there any years to avoid? How much abuse can the stock axles handle? If I am going to be using it off road a lot will I need to upgrade to Dana 60’s? Any suggestions on where to start my search would be greatly appreciated.
Looking to buy my first JK wanting a Rubicon
- Thread starter RustyShackleford
- Start date
The one difference between those years is the engines, older have the 3.8 and I don't remember when the 3.6's came in. The 3.8 like I have is a good engine if you do a few upgrades one being a Pedal Commander or similar throttle enhancer. It makes it feel like it has more power but really just makes the gas pedal more responsive.
The first couple years of the 3.6's had some issues and i'd think most of them would be repaired by now.
The Rubicon should have D44's in front and rear and if you was to gusset them they would be stronger, of course you'll never beat a D60 front and rear axle. Alot depends on your wallet and how hard core your going to be.
The first couple years of the 3.6's had some issues and i'd think most of them would be repaired by now.
The Rubicon should have D44's in front and rear and if you was to gusset them they would be stronger, of course you'll never beat a D60 front and rear axle. Alot depends on your wallet and how hard core your going to be.
Thanks for the response! I will look into what year they changed the engine. I’m guessing the pedal commander is a pretty inexpensive upgrade and it sounds like it’s well worth it. I am hoping to avoid an axle upgrade at all costs and would much rather upgrade stock parts to improve strength on the 44. From what I’ve read a 37in tire is the largest the 44 will handle and does require some significant upgrades. Is this the general consensus? Also, I am curious as to why the only used jk models that have upgrades already installed are either sport or Sahara models.
I believe the 07 - 11 were the 3.8 and 12 - 18.5 are the 3.6 also the hard rock and the recon came with stronger D44 axel
Yep, 12 was the year the 3.6 made it's way into the jeep. Good engine. So is the 3.8, but the 3.6 has 80 more horse power.
The 07-11 are the budget JKs. You will pay $1000s less.
The engine is fine. Not at peppy as the 3.6, but it moves the jeep. I would not get an auto trans on the 3.8. That is one of the main reasons (IMHO) for the hate on the engine. I'm at almost 200k with mine though.
If you have the budget, get a 13-18. Generally avoid ones from 12 unless you find a deal.
The 07-11 are the budget JKs. You will pay $1000s less.
The engine is fine. Not at peppy as the 3.6, but it moves the jeep. I would not get an auto trans on the 3.8. That is one of the main reasons (IMHO) for the hate on the engine. I'm at almost 200k with mine though.
If you have the budget, get a 13-18. Generally avoid ones from 12 unless you find a deal.
Yes. The 07-11 was a four speed auto and was not well paired with the engine, the six speed manual was by far the better option.
for the 12-18 they switched to a 5 speed when they changed out the engine. It is a much better transmission, and while I really enjoy driving manual, I would probably get an auto, but it would depend on what I found. Plus, manual are harder to find when you move into the 3.6.
If I ever move up to a JL, I would 100% get the auto. I hear amazing things.
Thank you so much for the feedback! I can’t wait to pick one up. I’ve been shopping for long arm lift kits and 35-37 inch tires. Goal is to have it ready for the rubicon trail this summer.