Date: 20MAY2003 Company: jet Product: Jet performance chip Model: 2002 Wrangler Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: mepierre@yahoo.com

Details: Installed in minutes. No real excellent gains in horse power or MPG

Date: 27APR2003 Company: superlift Product: slip yoke eliminator and CV driveshaft Model: YJ 93 Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: wgilbertpt1@myactv.net

Details: Great product that installed in one day with the CV driveshaft. Cost together about 700 bucks. It was of good construction and the fixed yoke assembly did away with the internal needle bearings on rear main shaft. Strong Product. The down side is that the instructions 12 pages worth were not that great. I was able to get through with no prior experience but did require some special tools like an impact wrench, and something to press on the bearings if your not intuitive. Oh Yeah THEY DIDNT SEND THE 4 BOLTS FOR ATTACHING THE DRIVESHAFT TO THE FIXED YOKE ASSEMBLY. They are not the 8 mm strap bolts either so that was an extra trip to the hardware store.

Date: 29NOV2002 Company: MOPAR Product: security wheel locks Model: 2000 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: horuhe00@hotmail.com

Details: I bought the set of 4 so that I wouldn't one day find my Jeep on top of 4 blocks of cement. But changing one tire, i was tightening it and half of the darn thing broke. So I couldn't take the tire out unless I broke the whole thing off... Cheap made in China metal....

Date: 19SEP2002 Company: pacesetter Product: Pacesetter headers Model: headers jeep 4.0 engine Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: CETROV@AOL.COM

Details: After my stock exhaust manifold broke on my 1997 TJ 4.0 I ordered a set of pacesetter headers. The design is pretty good - they tuck under the front of the engine oil pan so they are less likely to get hit when going over rocks. The bad thing is if the oil pan has to come off the headers will also have to be removed. Also- after the headers were installed I did a Rubicon 4 1/2 inch superflex suspension lift- the position of the headers kept the lower control arm on the right side from going down more than one inch. I had to have the header rewelded and the pipe reshaped to go around the control arm. Not a big deal but something to think about.

Date: 31AUG2002 Company: rocky-road outfitters Product: 3" body lift Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: yaskbriany@yahoo.com

Details: when i called to order the body lift they were backordered, i was told i would be put on thier call list. i asked the rep if this was just to let me know when it came in, then if i still wanted to purchase the lift i could do it then.they said that i would not be charged unless i wanted to purchase it then. a couple of weeks later a package showed up. it was my body lift. so i called rocky road and asked why they sent it to me without calling me. turns out they used my debit card # from a previous purchase, charged it and sent me the package. the biggest problem was that i didn't have the funds to cover it, so now i have overdraft charges to deal with also. the only option the sales rep gave me was to send it back, i decided to keep it because they said it would take a week to charge back to my account and i would still have the bank fees anyway. i decided to e-mail the owner glenn wakefield, i explained the situation and made it clear that i was very frustrated. the next day i received an e-mail from him basically saying that he has new employee's and cant watch over them all the time. i didn't even get an apology. take it or leave it

Date: 10JUL2002 Company: Warrior Products Product: Safari Sports Rack Model: 99 TJ Sport Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: virgil_likes_rum@hotmail.com

Details: It is strong and does hold a lot of stuff...but installation was a real pain. The instructions are worthless; pictures would be helpful for aligning the rear bar up. Make sure you place rear brackets 3/4" down from top of body tub. When they say drilling required they really mean it too. You have to drill 18 holes 3/8" diameter. Thats a lot of drilling when it comes to metal and your car. They dont provide any kind of sealant for all those holes so I used regular clear RTV. The fit of the roof rack on the sport bars is about impossible and required several hits of the hammer. Removal is required is you want to lower your top down and thats like pulling teeth. I have to use a hammer to hit the rack in order for it to come off. I should have bought the Congo cage rack system instead. Its too late now with all those holes in my jeep.

Date: 12AUG2002 Company: Eliminator Product: Shocks Model: YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: erc114@excite.com

Details: Ordered some "no-name" eliminator shocks from 4wdparts. Not bad shocks, install was easy, new included hardware was correct and everything fit. Not a bad shock for the money 4 for $100, and they have definately firmed up the handling while providing a medium ride. I would recommend them if you are looking for a budget replacement, but by far not the ultimate shock. What do you expect for $25

Date: 10MAY2002 Company: JC Whitney Product: JC Whitney Model: roof rack Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: funguide70@hotmail.com

Details: I ordered the roof rack in June from JC Whitney. They keep back-ordering this rack. From 02MAY, to 06MAY, to 16MAY, now who knows when I will get this part. Has anyone had this problem with them?

Date: 17APR2002 Company: Rusty's Off Road Product: 1 Inch Motor Mounts Model: Wrangler TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: jeepin_mark@hotmail.com

Details: Purchased a set of Rusty's Off Road 1 inch motor mounts for my TJ. Install was rough as one size was 1/8 of a inch larger then the other had to be filed down to fit. Real trouble came when I was off roading and the drivers side motor mount let go busting the transfer case linkage and putting the fan into the shroud destroying it. Rusty's products are far from bullet proof! For what it's worth, take it or leave it.

Date: 14JAN2002 Company: Olympic Product: Bumper/ Nerf Bar Kit Model: 87 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: kralinc@yahoo.com

Details: Purchased an Olympic kit from 4WD Hdw and was impressed with the look and feel. Installation could have probably used a second pair of hands but I managed. What is most disappointing is the powder coat finish which comes off like, well like powder. I haven't even had the Jeep on, or off, the road and I already have rust forming on various points where ther coating has come off. While a matched kit of front and rear bumpers with nerf bars is a nice way to go for continuity, I could go for it without the rust.

Date: 6JAN2002 Company: Central4WD Product: Shipping Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: clark_packer@hotmail.com

Details: After a much anticipated Airraid TBS for my YJ I decided to purchase one from Central 4WD in California. 12 days later it showed up... the packing appeared to have done by a 3rd grader and the product was not the right model number. So I called to arrange for a return. I got through, talked to someone and then was put on hold for 5 minutes because they had to figure out who was at fault for the wrong model being sent to me (either them or I). Then he got back on the phone said the invoice had the correct numbers on it but the shipping department there just plain sent the wrong one. Now I must wait another week or two for what may possibly be the right TBS.

Date: 14NOV2001 Company: Manik Product: Nerf bars Model: Jeep TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: skenzer@chartermi.net

Details: I bought a set of nerf bars for my '98 wrangler SE expecting them to be a pretty quick install. Is anything really that simple? Anyway, the quality of the steps are very good. Much less expensive than Westin and built easily as well. However, in order to install the driver's side step you have to mess with the brake lines that rune along the frame. This was not only a scary thing to do, but potentially expensive. Thank god all went well. Quality is good, if not great. Installation is a challenge.

Date: 15AUG2001 Company: Steel Horse Product: Island/maui topper, Tonneau cover, and windjammer Model: 1997 TJ Sahara Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: comtian_positivism@hotmail.com

Details: This is going to sound crazy, if not insane, but Steel horse builds satisfactory products...I've been watching their rep slide down hill for a long time. I recently went to North Shore Offroad in Vancouver....a super good crew to work with for accessories. And ordered my top , jammer and tonneau. They said it was going to Be BESTOP so I was pumped, but at the last moment (Like as I was waiting to pay) They pulled out the old Plastic Pony boxes. I almost didn't buy it but the guy promised they would work out ok. And they have...everything fit really nice and tight....instructions were pretty good...not that this task was difficult, and the materials seem pretty sturdy. I did snap a plastic tensioner (On the webbing strap) but that was because I chose to tie the straps using the back seat seat belt post as anchors rather then drill and mount the foot man loops that came with the top...Well a good knot held it tight...and everything fit neatly...I've had it on for over week in the worst rain of the year and it's been pretty good. I think this product was worth the money so far, but becaus e it's still a plastic pony product I couldn't put it in excellent...I haven't really put it too the test....but it's pretty good for Steel Horse.--

Date: 23JUN2001 Company: ARB Product: ARB winch bumper Model: 85 XJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: mystomper@qwest.net

Details: After many month's of researching winch bumpers for the Cherokee,I decided to install the ARB bull.Definately the best looking bumper, not the stongest. If you are an extreme wheeler like me, save your money and get the best. Bulletproof MFG makes the best.

Date: 19JUN2001 Company: Steel Hourse Product: Steel Horse Euro guards Model: 98 XJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: jmikula@bigfoot.com

Details: Rusted the first year, a bear to install,(I had to use a jack to even it out). BUT I beat the snot out of it and it saved me $500 in front end damage. I took it to a fabrication shop and they straightened it and but stronger support members. The tail light covers rusted too (1 year) and scraped the XJ hatch. (I had to file the pointed edges down) If anyone wants to buy the side steps, they've never been used and are NOT rusty!

Date: 1JUN2001 Company: Poweraid Product: Throttle Body Spacer Model: Wrangler TJ 2.5L Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: AWWings@aol.com

Details: Was easy to install but not real noticable inprovement. As others have noted, whistles during hard acceleration.

Date: 2MAY2001 Company: Sun Industries Product: Vertical Headlight Guards Model: '01 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: anewell@allsupgroup.com

Details: Installation was tough, though this is not really a flaw in the design of the guards. Because of the positioning of the factory headlight screws and the headlight itself, it is impossible to get a ratchet in position. resorted to using a crescent wrench to tighten the screws. Have noticed rust forming from the screws, but the guards themselves are holding up OK. They look great, but the installation (and inevitable headlight replacement difficulties) and small rust problem make them a wash.

Date: 22MAR2001 Company: Casmere Co. Product: Pashmina shawl Model: large shawl Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: fjc@infoserve.net

Details: FAILED TWO TIMES TO SEND CORRECT COLOR AS SHOWN ON THEIR WEB SITE!!! TAXES PAID TWICE ON WRONG COLOR! This is false and misleading advertising and caused extreme dissapointment! Color sent does not go with rest of wardrobe.

Date: 19MAR2001 Company: Sun Performance Product: Ram Air Induction Scoop Model: YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: jamgood96@hotmail.com

Details: My YJ never blows the air hard enough, so I thought I'd give this a try. It mounts over the existing vent. I haven't really noticed a difference. Maybe a little, but not a lot. Sun Performance says to have it facing the windshield. If I turned it around the other way I'd probably get better airflow, but lot's of water would get in. It's made very sturdy. Very tough plastic. I maybe didn't get that much better airflow, but it adds good looks to my Jeep.

Date: 5MAR2001 Company: Midland Product: Midland CB 75830 Model: 93 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: erc114@excite.com

Details: The Midland 75-830 is supposedly the worlds smallest handheld 40 channel and has weather. Bought this tiny little handheld CB at Wally world on clearence with the car kit (seperate antenna adapter, and 12volt plug) for $50 (marked down from $99.95). I bought it for a pack radio/loaner/rover figuring at worst it would make a good weather radio. It does as expected being good for about line of sight maybe just over the horizon with its stubby antenna, however the weather works great picking up almost every transmitter in the state clearly. It is not the most durable unit in design with sort of a cheap AA battery pack that has to be popped in halved to replace the batts, the pack also has to be removed to slide the car adapter on (a major pain if you used it). The buttons arnt particularly sensitive and I think the antenna mount looks a little flimsy and should be cared for accordingly. Overall it is small and pretty much does as promised and is a good backup, rover to communicate back to camp from down by the creek, or loan a CB-less buddy who will be right behind you. I imagine it is as competent as any handheld unit. I would not recommend this to be your primary unit in your Jeep! and I must admit I wouldnt have paid the full retail for the unit (or any handheld for that matter) but at $50 I figured I couldnt go wrong. Goodluck! JB's jeep Acc grade: C+

Date: 5MAR2001 Company: Midland Product: Midland CB Mod. 79290 Model: 93 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: erc114@excite.com

Details: Ordered this CB from National Electronics (Highly Recommended in themselves same day shipping, email confirmation, pleasant, though selection is limited) I ordered the unit because it was compact yet feature packed giving me weather, U/LSB, detachable face, a well reviewed manufacturer and all for less than $150. Install was easy though the mount is a tad on the cheezy side and vulnerable to theft (recommend putting it in a tuffy console since it has that "expensive" look) First the unit is very clean looking with an attractive monochrome screen however the backlighting for the knobs does bleed through alittle, it is large and easy to read. The controls themselves are small and packed a little to tight, especially the adjustments but you get used to it, the detachable face mounting seems to be a little weak so if you choose one of these units I would reserve removing it for those shadier locations. Function is good though it is extremely sensitive to distant signals and it takes a fair amount of the sq and rf gain to filter it out. Transmitting range seems to be around 6 to 7 miles maybe a little more on SSB but I havent had great luck in finding to many people that use this to "test" it but I think I would get stronger response from a higher and better located areil (bumpstop/3ft firefly ant.) Overall a nice feature packed all the bells and whistle radio, not for everyone as you could probably get just as much utility out of a $60 CB with the same antenna setup but if you love buttons this unit is for you. JB's Jeep Acc. Grade: B

Date: 12FEB2001 Company: Harbor Freight Product: Harbor Freight Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: Redyj@aol.com

Details: Ordered a welder from Harbor Freight. Two & a half weeks after I ordered it they sent me a card that they couldn't deliver. Ordered ten small items (about $70 worth). Took two weeks to get it. Received 5 items, 4 canceled and one back ordered. Waste of time to order from them.

Date: 4FEB2001 Company: Tuffy Product: Lockboxes Model: YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: cmock12@aol.com

Details: I bought both the center console lockbox and the big rear one, and both have somewhat dissapointed me. They are both strong as hell, and I don't think I'll ever get them broken into, but the rear one is useless because its awkwardly shaped and almost impossible to get to when the top is up, and you can't even have it in when a soft top is down. The center console was a pain in the butt to install, and I installed it too close to the passenger seat so its almost impossible to raise the seat up to let someone in the back. The lock also starts coming loose after a while. Strong but bulky and awkward.

Date: 2FEB2001 Company: Tomken Product: Heavy duty spring hangers Model: 84 cj7 (friendly wave to all) Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: mervalt@futureone.com

Details: I'm disappointed with my first purchase from Tomken. I see from the talk boards that they're highly regarded for most items. The spring hangers I purchased from their website show "pre-drilled, powder coated black" spring hangers in words & pictures. The hangers I received were neither drilled or coated. Clean, yet ready for welding? or maybe paint-it-yourself? NOT as described in their online catalog, and not as I am prepared to alter. I just received these today (ordered less than a week ago) so delivery is not the problem. I'm sending them back. Let's give them time to respond to my email about the return, before forming a total opinion. TIOLIY (take it or leave it, y'all)

Date: 29JAN2001 Company: Leon Rosser Jeep Product: Rosser Jeep Model: 92 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: stormm777@hotmail.com

Details: I ordered a bumper set from Rosser Jeep, only to receive grief through the whole ordeal. After messing my order up by not successfully processing it, they did make it right by sending me the front bumper with the light tabs. (I didn't order them originally due to cost and future plans for a light bar.) But what they did do, is send me three different products. The front bumper, the rear bumper and the nerf bars are all made by three different companies. Thank God they're all black, but you can tell the difference. One noticeable way is the end caps on the bumpers and the logo on the 'step' part of the Nerf Bar. Needless to say, this is very aggravating. And I will from now on, take my business elsewhere. And to think that I'm at the beginning of this project. :(

Date: 21DEC2000 Company: Bestop Product: Replace-a-top Model: 93 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: erc114@excite.com

Details: Didnt have much choice but to replace my top and the Bestops are one of the few choices out there. Looks very nice but is a littler looser fitting than I would like to see in a new top. Overall workmanship quality vgood to excellent with a few missed stitches. JB's evaluation grade: B-

Date: 9DEC2000 Company: Besttop Product: Supertop Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: mcdonalk@goodnet.com

Details: I installed a Besttop Supertop on my 93 YJ in 1993. Installation went well, and the fit was pretty good. Over the next several years, though, the top started to wear. Not the fabric, but the hardware. Some of the hinges broke. Bestop would not sell me new frame segments; they'll only sell fabric separately. To get new hardware, they told me that I would have to buy a new top. So, as the hardware continued to deteriorate, I eventually was forced to buy a new top. The new top is about a year old. While it has some upgraded features (e.g. tailgate access without detaching rear curtain), it's overall fit is noticeably poorer then the one I had installed several years before. Try as I might, it won't sit straight: The driver's side overhang impinges into the door modling area. Also, the hardware rattles to no end on bumpy roads, and since I am usually the sole occupant, I haven't been able to locate the source yet. And did Imention that the kit arrived with some missing parts (minor hardware)? It does seal well, I'll give it that. However, if Besttop was not just about the only game in town, I'd rate them, at least recently, "save your money."

Date: 21NOV2000 Company: Hella Product: Hella 500s Model: TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: scottsharp@hotmail.com

Details: I like the looks of the round slim 500s but the mounting design doesn't allow much room to adjust the aim down...they have a tab that sticks out on the bottom and the mounts are to close to the bottom of the light.

Date: 13OCT2000 Company: Skyjacker + Edlebrock Product: 2.5" lift + IAS shocks Model: '98 TJ Sahara Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: dirtyknight@yahoo.com

Details: I love my Edlebrock IAS shocks. I put them on before I got the lift kit. They improve stock ride by 1000%. I got the 2.5" Skyjacker kit because I wouldn't have to replace my new shocks. Unfortunately, the ride is possibly stiffer than the stock ride. Body roll is still next to nothing, thanks to the IAS, but bumps are again very noticable. IAS shocks with a skyjacker lift may not be the best combo. Just consider it before buying.

Date: 11OCT2000 Company: American Racing Product: AR 767's Model: 88 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: cengrissei@hotmail.com

Details: Ordered 5 AR 767's for my 88 YJ. Only four came in, and after having them for an hour I lost 20psi from one tire. Took it back to the shop to find the rim had a hole in it; not the tire, folks. The rim!! What a pain! Now I'll have three new rims and two old nasty rusted out chrome ones for the next two days. I called AR and the guy said that defects are common w/ those steel rims. I told him if I had known that, I wouldn't have bought them. I kind of expected more of a response than that. I know AR is a reputable company; too bad their customer service isn't more consistent. Nobody likes to be on the receiving end of a bad day at a wheel manufacturer. I say TIOLI! (take it or leave it)

Date: 7AUG2000 Company: Painless Wiring Product: Painless Wiring harness Model: 73' CJ-5 Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: G_K_Y@hotmail.com

Details: I installed a Painless harness in a 73 CJ-5. The product is ok untill I started to set the harness in the vehicle. The Fuse conectors started to fall out the back of the fuse block. Four wires in all fell out and when I contacted Painless about the problem they said that there was nothing they could do. If you have to use this product inspect the harness when it arrives at your door. The product would have been better if they used quality parts, better customer service and more R&D. Good luck with your project.

Date: 27JUL2000 Company: Painless Products Product: CJ Wiring Harness Model: Jeep CJ 7 Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: neotek131@galaxyinternet.net

Details: After seeing the rats nest of wiring behind my dash, I decided to buy this "painless" wiring kit. I have some basic electrical knowledge, but these directions stumped me. Everything went well until we got to the engine wiring. AAHHH! They failed to mention that the computer harness wasn't included! Nothing quite like wiring your onboard comp for 45min. Painless Products harness is 50/50 split for me...

Date: 9JUL2000 Company: Best Top Product: Soft Top Model: '99 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: alpinhi@hotmail.com

Details: It is a good looking top with the full soft doors that I love and was easy to install, and will be easy to disassemble when winter arrives and time to put the hard top on. BUT this top does not fit very tight and will come apart at the right rear corners and above the doors at highway speeds. If you have the top completely off or on your okay. If you take out the windows and leave top up it will come apart at about 45mph. I solved the corners coming apart with bungee cords but there is quite a bit of flapping, just for the summer this is a good choice as long as you don't drive on the highway too much.

Date: 9JUL2000 Company: ARB Product: Safari Snorkel Model: '99 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: alpinhi@hotmail.com

Details: I have not installed it yet but the sales person failed to tell me that the snorkel will not on the '97-'99 TJ with A/C. The installation does not look tough but a sheet was sent with it that said the snorkel MIGHT work if you reroute or bend the A/C lines.

Date: 12MAY2000 Company: Bestop Product: Upper Doors w/Glass Model: 98 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: RIKNIK@AOL.com

Details: 100% better than Steel Horse's version (had Steel's for one wet day and returned, as if anyone who's had Steel Horse products would expect otherwise), but still not perfect. Passenger side is flawless, driver side developed leak after 4 months. Quadratec has been great - sent replacement last week. Unfortunately, replacement leaked immediately and worse than my original. Another one on-the-way, will post results.

Date: 12MAY2000 Company: InstaTrunk Product: InstaTrunk for Wrangler Model: 98 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: RIKNIK@AOL.com

Details: Easy to install, but definitely cannot be considered a "security device". Mine was pryed open dead-center - enough to let thieves get my Pioneer faceplate. In all fairness, it did NOT "give" enough for my toolbox to be removed, but I was disappointed that it bent at all. Will stick to Tuffy security products from now on.

Date: 25APR2000 Company: Xenon Product: Xenon EZ mount fender flares Model: 2000 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: rivkev@hotmail.com

Details: Nice construction, BUT: tedious to mount, fit was not that great, left a gap between the front flares and the "mini-flare" along side.

Date: 6APR2000 Company: Sun Performance Product: Soft top Billet quick Disconnects Model: Quick Disconnects Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: melvinjensen@hotmail.com

Details: Just want to let everyone know, I bought these neat little soft-top billet disconnects from Sun Performance and 1 or 2 of the holes for the screw does not line up. Surprise...Yeah right. Now I have to drill into my soft top frame. I wanted to let everyone know about their products. They are put out on the market even if they don't fit exactly right. So don't believe that you can go right out and bolt their products on. They dont measure very well, and they seem intent on just measuring once and if doesn't fit just right, then Oh well. I have purchased a lot of their products and I won't anymore. I do not believe they are a good supplier and there parts aren't all that great either. Oh the cool light guards I had bought off them are already starting to rust just 2 months later. Looks great. If you can find another parts manufacturer TRY them first instead of these guys. Their products leave alot to be desired once you have them home.

Date: 4APR2000 Company: M.O.R.E. Product: 1-Inch Body Lift Model: TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: utah@email.com

Details: I bought this with the intention of taking 2-3 hours to put it on. First of all, the instructions were vague and the photos were terrible. I have installed 2 suspension lifts and have found them to be much easier to put on. Once on, it worked great, but you had to be a monkey to get all of new equipment in place.

Date: 21FEB2000 Company: Sun Performance Product: Headlight guards/Windshield light mounts Model: Jeep TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: melvinjensen@hotmail.com

Details: HEADLIGHT / TURN SIGNAL GUARDS: These headlight guards look cool, but were an extreme pain to screw in. No room is alloted to using the torx bit with any type of device. Real cool looking but a pain to put on. Also didn't put any holes for the turn signals in my Jeep. Couldn't bear drilling holes in it. WINDSHIELD LIGHT MOUNTS: I found these didn't fit like a glove, and spoke with a guy in the company who says he was aware of them not fitting properly, so in order to get them to fit, you have to bend up the windshield rubber and try to wiggle the piece under it. A real pain which also scraped the original paint underneath which already shows signs of rusting. Sun Performance parts look nice, but their fit leaves something to be desired. They need to actually try on the parts before making these molds. I'm sure they look great on paper, but when they mold one and it doesn't fit properly, they still put it on the market. So understand these products don't fit right on. Some scraping, bending, and ingenuity will be required for them to be secured on your Jeep. Any feedback or E-mails with any experiences, good or bad would be appreciated. Thanks. Editor's Note: We didn't have any of the above problem with our guards or windshield mounts. The screws in the headlight guards are a tight fit, but it is possible. Overcoming the problem of drilling holes in your fender flares is a different matter. - Mac

Date: 6FEB2000 Company: Crane Product: Energizer Cobra 1.7Roller Rockers Model: 87 Bronco 5.0L Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: wht89lx@yahoo.com

Details: Price was right in Summit cat. $171.95... These are bolt down roller rockers that came stock on the '93 Mustang Cobra..installation is straight forward, READ THE INSTRUCTIONS, remove upper intake on EFI engines, and valve covers...simply unbolt the stamped steel factory rockers, and bolt down the New Roller Rockers...mine needed shims(they come with the rockers). The rockers are suppose to have less friction and have better accuracy than stock rockers, and also have a higher ratio wich equates to better performance...dunno any dyno results, but I have noticed more "pull" over 4k rpm's...good luck have fun....

Date: 14JAN2000 Company: Durango Product: Rocker Guards Model: YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: jdavisa@dttus.com

Details: The rocker guards themselves seem very durable. I think the product is solid and worth-it if you have the time and tools to put them in. But if you have made any modifications to the flares, or have the little flare extension on the front flare, then get ready to do some serious fabrication. I have the Xenon extended flares which resulted in the need to do some serious grinding to make the rear fit. I also have the little extension, that I was faced with either removing (just leaving the front flare open), or cutting a notch/shaving the top of the guard to make it fit. The second approach took about 3 hours per side, but looks great and still protects all the way to the front wheel well. All told, it was about 8-12 hours to make them work, and now that I have them in I am happy with them. But I have to tools and the time, and got no sympathy or advice from the guys at Durango as to how to make the necessary accomodations for my modifications.

Date: 8JAN2000 Company: Warrior from JC Whitney Product: Reverse Shackle kit Model: YJ Wrangle Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: self01@earthlink.net

Details: I recently purchased this product and due to the welding required, decided to take it to a shop for installation. While at the shop, the technician installing it on my 1994 YJ noticed that if installed per instructions, it would move the front axle forward 3-4 inches due to the design of the front spring mounts. After calling the manufacturer, they said this has never happened and suggested moving the front mounts back. However, due to the location of the power steering geerbox, this is impossible. So the technician had to weld plates over the spring mounts, drill new holes further aft of the original holes and trim the excess metal from the froward section of the mounts. Although this is a better looking kit than most (the front spring mounts have a bar attached to the left and right mounts and sits just under the front bumper), be aware of the possible modifications required.

Date: 27DEC1999 Company: Carr Manufacturing Product: Entry Guards Model: CJ-7 Entry Guards Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: wdearing@zoomnet.net

Details: These are great looking products, but they do not work with hardtop models. Catalog will not tell you this. They are too thick and will not allow your hard doors to shut unless you place washers on the door pins which may cause the top of your door to hit the hardtop and not fit the rest of the door opening properly. Do not buy these if you have a hardtop model and they do require drilling your lower door opening.

Date: 11DEC1999 Company: Teraflex Product: Gas tank skid plate Model: 98 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: ianderson@erdas.com

Details: Basically a disappointing fit - the plate had to be forced around the gas tank and sits off-centre. The offset means that the passenger side of skid plate, where the OEM skid plate already wraps around and offers side protection, sticks out by an inch and a half, whereas the driver side, which has no OEM side protection, is short and so the side of the gas tank projects out beyond the plate. If you are happy about the extra $30 and extra weight of thicker plate, go with the Tomken skid plate - it offers wrap-around protection.

Date: 17DEC1999 Company: Superior Gear Product: Super Dana35 Kit Model: 95 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: Mudjocky@aol.com

Details: I got the kit from Drivetrain Direct. Excellent service and knowledge. The kit was easy to install. The kit comes with 30 spline alloy shafts with a special carrier and Lock-Right locker and new bearings and seals. The kit did seem to live up to what they said. I put it thru its paces and I loved it. Two months down the road I heard a strange noise. Took it apart and the carrier bearing on drivers side had spun and snapped the ear off of the carrier. They sent replacement parts pronto with no questions. Two months later same thing happend again. They advised me that my tire size, 35" BFG MT's, had nothing to do with it. Guy at local shop told me the dana 35 has a problem with ring gear deflection and it pinches the bearing. The 2nd time it happened, the bearing was gone...turned to powder. For almost 1000 dollars you can put a Ford 8.8 in, which is what I did later. Drivetrain Direct took back the broken parts, and the rest of the kit and traded me a C locker for the 8.8, gears, and an install kit and ate the postage. If you're running smaller tires with a 4-banger, the kit would probly work for you. Anything larger and it's a waste. Take it or leave it.

Date: 6DEC1999 Company: Turbo City Product: Turbo City Intake Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: upperoom@hotmail.com

Details: It arrived in time and was installed in less than 5 minutes. However not a hint of power increase was noticed. A bit dissapointed, but it does sound great when you gun it. So for all that it cost...think carefully and maybe just stick with a home made intake or the Rusty.

Date: 1DEC1999 Company: Rubicon Express Product: RE adjustable track bar Model: XJ Cherokee Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: locked35@yahoo.com

Details: RE makes a great track bar, when it stays tight. The bar is excellent, but after 2 or 3 off road trips or a 2 month street period (rear diff problems), the bolts at the frame end come loose. Loctite did not work. The next time I have to tighten it I'm going to double nut it.

Date: 23NOV1999 Company: Olympic Product: Rock Bumpers Model: CJ7 Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: copra@cels.com

Details: Rear bumper was a pain to install. Two tabs on the bottom of the bumper had to be cut off as they hit the rear spring hanger mounts. The holes had to be enlarged to fit every bolt in and top of the bumper actually contacts the lower edge of the tub. Also, the hole for the pin in the receiver is too high and doesn't align with even one of the many draw bars I own. I expected a better fit and to be able to bolt the bumper on with no modification necessary. I had similar problems with nerf bars from Olympic as well. Their prices are reasonable, but the fit and quality could only be called reasonable also. The frustration to make things fit isn't worth the money saved over other brands.

Date: 22NOV1999 Company: Steel Horse Product: Tow Hooks Model: 1999 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: Wind_Danzer@hotmail.com

Details: Well unlike the Mirror Movers, the tow hooks I ordered have a lot to be desired. They arrived on time from Quadratec and looked very good. Well, at first the bolts looked to be the right size in each package until I was putting them on the vehicle. The second package has "fine thread" bolts and the threads needed to be "corse". Fortunately, there were 4 bolts to each package so everything there was ok. Well the next thing I had to do was remove the bumper and take off the stops. No big deal there. So I got them on my Jeep with little trouble and the black powder finish looked wonderful. Well the next morning I woke up and went out to go driving and THE DAMN THING STARTED TO RUST!!!! OVERNIGHT!!!! The hooks themselves were OK, but the clip and the top of the bolts started to rust over. I'll have to sand it a little and paint them back over and find a nice clearcoat that is rust proof. Overall it's a good product, I've used them many times, but I really don't appreciate the extra work that has to be done with it and I'm sure there are better tow hooks out there.

Date: 22NOV1999 Company: Steel Horse Product: Mirror Movers Model: 1999 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: Wind_Danzer@hotmail.com

Details: Well I'm some what new to this site and I was actually wondering what I had gotten myself into after buying the Mirror Movers for my TJ. Well I honestly haven't had a problem with them. I bought them from Quadratec and they were at my door in 2 days. They easily attached to the windshield hinge (no trouble like the earlier models of Wranglers where you have to have something like 10 hands for all the bolts :) ) and I had to make absolutely no modifications to them. I think the toughest thing I had to do was crack the bolts. There is only one slight problem, you can't see the mirror on the passengers side when the doors are back on the vehicle. Yet, knowing the rep of Steel Horse I might have lucked out...that's why I say "Take it or leave it."

Date: 15NOV1999 Company: Olympic 4x4 Product: Roof sports rack Model: 98 Jeep Wrangler Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: AWWings@aol.com

Details: Handy to have when going camping. Unfortunately parts were missing when ordered from Quadratec. Rear assembly could be a little easier, parts had a tough time fitting together. Realize that you will have to remove rack if you ever want to take off the top for a little sun. In addition, you will need to invest in rubber padding to put between the rack and the jeep in order to prevent the paint from rubbing off.

Date: 10NOV1999 Company: 4 Wheel Drive Hardware Product: Instatrunk Model: '88 YJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: cengrissei@hotmail.com

Details: We all need a little more storage space in our Jeeps, right? So I buy an instatrunk, mainly for a surface to mount my Hi-Lift jack. The instatrunk is a snap to install and serves it's purpose; pretty much impossible to screw up since all it has to do is sit there and be an instatrunk. My only gripe is that there were only 3 washers and 7 screws in the hardware bag for the 8 mounting holes on the product. Like I said, the product is great, but get that jar of nuts and washers out; you'll need them! I say take it or leave it.

Date: 3NOV1999 Company: Steel horse Product: Mirror Movers Model: 97 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: _jrossi@yahoo.com

Details: These things are soooo easy to put on....after you find someone to break loose the windshield capscrews that is. They have shown rust (here in GA, we get no snow, hence no salt, and we hardly ever get real rain, but...), so I decided to paint them this week with some Black Bumper and Trim paint. The paint looks real good, so we'll see how these things turn out. So far I'm happy with everything they gave me (hardware), just go ahead and paint them as soon as you buy them.

Date: 1NOV1999 Company: Steel Horse (Would you believe it?!) Product: Upholstered Sound Bar Model: '97-2000 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: KingRavage@aol.com

Details: I know, this IS from Steel Horse, but it actually WORKS! It was kind of a pain to install, their color wiring didn't match at all with my TJ's, so it took awhile to get everything straightened out. Second, mounting the thing was hard, it took three guys to put all their weight on the supports in order for me to get the screws in. The light buzzes from the vibrations, but I can fix that with a peice of tape... and I'm not sure if it has anything to do or not with a horrible squeak my softtop has recently generated.... BUT....It comes with nice, bright dome lights (I deliver pizzas in order to buy off-road equipment and pay off the Jeep and the girlfriend, there's nothing better than domelights for that), and a pair of 4" Jensen speakers, which really don't osund all that bad at all. I only have my stock 4x6s running with the Jensens, and the sound generated is pretty nice from my Pioneer receiver. Needless to say, it may be a b*tch and a half to install, but once it's up, it's really quite nice, though I would rather have a stock one. Oh well. Take it or leave it, buds.

Date: 9SEP1999 Company: Tomken Machine Product: TJ 2" lift Model: '99 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: skippy@gotmail.com

Details: I ordered this kit because it was the only kit for the price I could find that included the transfer case lowering spacers. No shocks. The kit took only eight days to receive and aside from the typical UPS box destruction seemed to be just what I wanted. Then I opened the box. No track arm bracket and no transfer case linkage drop. When I called I was told that these parts were no longer included. Strangely the price stayed the same as well as their catalog photos that clearly show the parts. I called again to inquire about the track arm bracket and finally talked to the GM. I was told the bracket would be sent by two-day air to me. Still waiting. In the mean time, I called Tera Mfg and ordered a transfer case linkage spacer, since none of the three 4wd shops in my entire state knew what I was talking about. Then I tried to install the kit. After fighting with the rear springs for an hour I discovered that I had been sent the 4" rear spring and the correct 2" front springs. Another call to Tomken and the correct rear springs were two day aired. This time they arrived right on time. Now with the front and rear springs, transfer case lowering kit and shocks (Black Diamonds from Quadratec) installed, I like it. I will soon have 31's. The reason I say "Take it or Leave it" is because of the incompleteness of the kit, very vauge instructions, Tomken's tech department and, the price. I thought I was getting away cheap, but with the kit, shocks and, sway-bar DC's I have a grand total of near $675. I could have gotten a Rancho or Skyjacker kit for that and they even include new lower links F&R.

Date: 7SEP1999 Company: Holley Product: Holley Pro-jection Model: Single TBI Kit Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: aday@ismi.net

Details: The Complaints: Holley has changed this kit from an analog kit to a digital kit.  Their web site still has all the info on the old kit.  What you get will be different than what is on their site, although likely better.  The stand-alone kit costs more now since it is digital.  Beware when getting prices.  Holley employees and distributors had difficulty with this.  I called Holley and they even gave me the wrong number for the optional feedback kit.  I had to order it twice to get the right one.  It turned out to be cheaper than the old feedback kit.  In the end the combination of the stand-alone kit and the optional feedback kit are almost the same as the old analog kit. The kit arrived and came with pretty good directions.  One strange thing though, the instructions insist that 3/8 inch ID delivery lines and 5/16 inch ID return lines are required.  When you route these lines to the throttle body unit you will find it has two 1/4-inch fittings on it.  This means if you follow the directions and hook up a “from the tank” 3/8-inch supply and 5/16-inch return you will have to go and buy adapters to get the fuel lines to hook up.  Having a 3/8-inch to ¼-adapter at the TBI unit is not my idea of a clean setup.  The fittings at the TBI are metric and not easily replaceable. The kit came with a cheap paper gasket for the fuel pump block off plate.  It immediately leaked.  A fuel pump gasket from the parts store fixed it fine. The kit comes with a mutant adapter that is supposed to allow the stock air cleaner to work.  Holley does not make a “normal” air cleaner for this TBI that fits in a Jeep (my stock one is long gone).  The TBI is oval, not round so an after market air cleaner will not easily fit.  The stock GM 2.5L cleaner won’t fit, it hits the brake booster.  It took almost as long to make an air filter fit as to install the entire kit. The kit came with a fuse holder with three wires coming out of it.  The directions actually had you cut one of the three off and crimp a new connector on the end.  There are two wire ones at the parts store, why can’t Holly put the right one in the kit?  I know its small, but it would be so easy to pack the right one at the factory. My Jeep now runs out of gas at 1/8 of a tank.  This does not surprise me, because I know fuel injection pumps will lose their prime and cannot intermittently pump air and gas.  Supplying gas from a non-baffled tank is just a problem for fuel injection.  Holley and any other retrofit manufactures should tell you this in their documentation.  Holley doesn’t say a word, they just let you run out of gas.  I ran out 20 feet from a gas station, lucky me. The instructions say that you should mount the pump below the lowest point in the tank.  On any CJ I’ve ever seen this is impossible.  The bottom of my tank is almost parallel with the bottom of the frame.   Unless the pump hangs from an axle, or is screwed to the bottom of the tank, it is higher than the lowest point of the tank.  I put mine on the side of frame just after the front rear spring shackle.  As low as I could get while still staying as close to the tank as possible.  Holley should decide what to do here.  This is not a universal kit.  It is supposed to fit CJ jeeps with 258 engines with 2bbl carbs.  Tell the installer where to put the pump, or at a minimum don’t give them an impossible requirement. The good stuff: Despite the less than refined kit the system works well.  My Jeep runs better than it ever has.  The low-end response is wonderful.  There are a few quirks.  I have to press the gas to ¼ throttle to get a smooth warm start.  The out of gas at 1/8 of a tank thing mentioned above.  Overall I’m happy now that it’s in.  I still wouldn’t have spent the money for the MOPAR kit.  Plus, I like being able to adjust the knobs to tune my Jeep. I had a spark knock problem before the fuel injection and now it’s fixed.  I was paranoid that it would stay or get worse.  This alone is worth the price of the kit for me. Take it or leave it.

Date: 9AUG1999 Company: Someplace in China via JC Whitney Product: "Heavy-gauge" Steel Windshield Frame Model: CJ-7 Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: todherman@jps.net

Details: While restoring my CJ, I needed a new windshield frame as the rust was overtaking my stock frame.  I decided to try the replacement frames from JC Whitney because the price was the best I'd found (with one of their coupons). The part came on time, as always from JC Whitney.  But my first beef was with how the part was packaged.  What was waiting on my pourch was a frame partially wrapped (not packaged and not enclosed) in cardboard with some little foam pads glued on two of the corners. My second beef was that the frame looked like it was tossed around quite a bit before it made it to me.  The top of the frame had dents all along the edge and the front (near where the hinges mount) was dented as if something heavy had been placed on it.  There were some scratches along the exposed (unwrapped) portions of the frame and the bottom edge was pressed in. My third beef was in the quality of the product.  But, actually, it was about what I had expected.  A cheap copy part is going to be just that!  The gauge of the steel was somewhat comparable, but the quality of the construction was lacking.  Plan on sealing the open folds with silicon to prevent water from getting inside and rusting it from within. I called JC Whitney and told them about how I received the part (and what I thought about their packaging).  They told me I could return it with no questions asked.  Instead, I took it to the body shop along with the Jeep and they were able to fix it for me fairly easily.  I decided to just go ahead and fix it as it would be quicker and less hassle then returning it, and trying to find another frame elsewhere.  I didn't have the time. If you get one of these, they obviously come unpainted.  But plan on also doing some minor body work on them before you install it.  You should consider this along with the price.

Date: 26JUL1999 Company: Steel Horse Product: Euro Guards front or rear Model: 1999 TJ Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: skippy@gotmail.com

Details: I ordered these from a local dealer due to cost and previous Steel Horse experience. When I got them the tail light guards where scrached (UPS's fault). Grill guard fit like it had been used to push over a VW. Driver's side was a full 2" closer to the body than the passengers side. Sent it back right away. Kept the tail light guards. Installation was easy once I figured out how to disconnect the plugs. Bolted right up,  look good and straight. Typical Steel Horse though, I have to pull them off now to repaint them (rusty).

Date: 20JUL1999 Company: JC Whitney/Pacesetter Product: I-6 258 headers Model: '77 CJ-7 Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: kwebb@dtx.net

Details: Ordered it from JCWhitney despite their complete incompetence.  Headers are a quality product, but JCWhitney told me they were painted with heat resistant paint.  After installing them and immediately boiling the paint,  I called pacesetter and they told me the paint was merely to prevent rust prior to purchase.  Now they'll have to come off for for paint or coating.  Thanks to JCWhitney's CERTIFIED tech line.

Date: 12JUL1999 Company: Steelhorse Product: Hard Bikini Top Model: Wrangler Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: KYsome@aol.com

Details: Amazingly enough, I found a good product from Steelhorse. This is a smoke colored plastic top that fits like a bikini top. It doesn't fit flush with a sound bar, but it does the job.  It doesn't flap around and provides a bit of shade.  The top squeaks badly, but a bit of weather stripping at the front and rear keeps the plastic from rubbing and squeaking.

Date: 8JUN99 Company: Painless Wiring Product: Painless Wiring Factory Harness Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: gheatly@home.net

Details: I purchased as complete an electrical wiring kit as I could find from 4 Wheel Hardware for my 1986 CJ7 for a complete reconstruction of the vehicle with a new fiberglass tub.  The kit is great but beware if too many special plug ends are needed.  In my case a large plug is needed to go into the master computer unit.  Painless does not have this and can only suggest that you splice into the original 30 some odd wired plug.  Purchase only if you have patience and a good wiring schematic.

Company: Steel Horse Product: Center Console Model: "Ultimate Locking Console" Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: EdPowell4@hotmail.com

Details: I'll probably take flak for this, but here goes.  I bought a center console from Steel Horse, I needed extra storage space and wanted it cheap.  Well, I have to say it does what I wanted it to do.  I wouldn't depend on it to protect my valuables, but it doesn't look bad, and the cup holders are really convenient.  I was dissappointed with the materials it was made out of, but what the heck, I got what I paid for.  Steel Horse doesn't have a good rep at all, but I think a lot of people expect too much from a company that specialzes in cheap stuff. I can't complain about my console, but I wouldn't order any performance parts from them.

Company: Jacobs electronics Product: Omni Torquer Model: TJ 2.5L Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: rigglemg@hotmail.com

Details: I purchased the Jacobs Omni Torquer as a system to improve the performance of my '99 TJ 2.5.  The price tag was steep, about $300.00, but I wasn't praying for miracles so I also ordered the Turbo City Rock-IT air tube with K&N filter.  I recieved the Jacobs first, it was easy to install, but after a couple of weeks of gapping my plugs and monitoring my mileage, it did not make the improvements that I desired. When trying to return the product I had to wait 6 hours for someone to call me back with a return authorization number which I thought was rediculous.  If you are on a Jeep budget, I recommend the Jacobs spark plug wires, combined with the direct hits spark amplifiers.  The Direct hits are $11.95 a piece so it is easier on your pocket.  Also, as you know, the Turbo Rock-IT really made the greatest overall improvement both in performance and looks.  Jacobs needs to work on their customer service if they are going to offer a 30 day money back guarantee.  Also, if you are happy with your Jacobs, I am happy for you.

Company: Steel Horse Product: Light Bar Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: dajohnsons@earthlink.net

Details: The light bar is great for those of you who are looking for a way to still use your soft-tops without uninstalling the bar.  However, the ever-important screws that are to replace the quality windshield screws your TJ comes with suck.  The metal that they are made from is much softer and of the phillips head verity.  So of course they look really silly after you install them, as they now need to be taken out because they are stripped and look terrible.  Steel Horse, can't you ever get anything right?

Company: Steel Horse Product: Hood Catch Kit Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: nomail@aol.com

Details: Let's hear it for Steel Horse once again!!  $10 for a kit sounded great, but the springs are too weak.  Now my hood squeaks and wiggles every time I go over a bump.  I didn't bother contacting Steel Horse as they only offer the one model and it would cost me another $3.50 just to ship it back.  I guess if you don't care about the noise they're OK and it does beat the hell out of the $90 that the dealer wanted for a set.  Too bad those springs weren't just a litle tighter...

Company: Hella Product: XL driving lights Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: dewdney@arcfoto.com

Details: Disappointing! for the following reasons: 1. I guess they didn't spend too much time translating the manual from german. Large informational gaps in the manual, vague terminology, lots of parts unaccounted for. Generally poorly written. Luckily I have a an electrical tech. background or else I'd be LOST! Complete installation took a little over five hours! 2. I got this version for my '92 XJ with a special "molly mounting kit" for bumpers ($29 extra or something?). Basically it's consists of four butterfly bolts with teeth in the top for using in drywall or soft wood. Very bad. I spent probably 40 min. tightening them only to find my lights wobble around like crazy! 3. Connectors are of surprisingly poor quality. The fit to the relay housing is QUITE poor. I expect a bit more from a $120 driving light kit. It didn't even come with covers! Once installed properly (and that's a big one) it seems to work OK. I was a little bit disappointed by the light output, but it was significantly brighter than the stock XJ driving lights.

Company: Currie Product: Rocker Panel Guards Model: Currie Rocker Panels Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: cmar@aecsoft.com

Details: The Currie rocker panel guards are pretty beefy and will protect your rockers well against rocks.  They protect the underside as well.  The pair I recieved had some bad scratches in the powder coating, they were either used or just damaged during packing.  I tried to call twice to ask for a replacement but never recieved a call back, I ended up installing them because I wanted them for a trip. I found the salemen at Currie to be a little rude.  I also think its a design flaw that the guards leave 1/2" gap near the fenders. I don't see why they stop short of the fender.  I say take it or leave it because the panels are probably the best choice and look good, but they could be better and Currie customer service could use some improvement.

Company: Steel Horse Product: Side Steps Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: rigglemg@hotmail.com

Details: I Purchased the side steps through JC Whitney.  They arrived in about 6 weeks and the steps and all the hardware were just thrown into the box without any packing materials for cushion.  The steps were all scratched and dinged-up.  One of the steps had a big dent.  At least after complaining to JC Whitney they refunded 85% of the purchase price for the steps.

Company: Jacobs Product: Omni Magnum Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: vadams@ap3c.com

Details: I have a 1998 TJ 2.5L. I bought the Omni Magnum mainly to clear up the hesitation and surging that are common with later fuel injection. It did cure that, but there was little performance improvement. The Omni-Magnum, wires, etc. carry a hefty price. I think I would have been happier spending it at Turbo City on a new exhaust, throttle body, etc. Also to make room for the Omni-Magnum I had to scrap my stock air box, and replace it with Turbo City's Rock-It Air Tube and K&N filter. For $120 bucks, the tube and filter made the most improvement!! Also, I was told by Jacobs to increase the plug gap to .055. This made lots of spark-knock. I was then told to lower it to .045. This helped, but there is still some spark-knock at full throttle, might have to drop it even further to .040. Not much difference from the stock .035!! Was told also by Jacobs that the timing is non-adjustable on my Jeep. Not that I could turn it up or anything!!!

Company: Mile Marker Product: Hydraulic Winch Model: 9000# winch Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: cyr@cybertours.com

Details: First off, I have never had a problem with this winch; it is very powerful, reliable, quiet, runs continuously and doesn't heat up.  The one problem I have with it is that it is SLOW!  When you pull out the cable, you are committed to winching; don't bother trying to "help" the winch with the clutch because the winch runs at the same speed full load/no load.  Put the vehicle in neutral and winch clear of obstruction/mud.  On the other hand, I've winched out 2 trucks (Chevys) at the same time by chaining them together (after they burned out their 2000# super winch) in a non-stop 100' pull through gumbo mud.  Mile Marker now makes a 2 speed, 10,000# winch but they would not take mine in trade.  They did have a kit to make mine a 2 speed; but it would downgrade the winch to 7000#.  I didn't feel I should spend the 200 odd $ to lose a ton of pull power for the sake of speed.  I try not to get stuck or hung up, but if I do I'm not worried, the Mile Marker WILL get me out.  Running out of gas on the other hand - Now that's stuck!  That's my opinion, take it or leave it.

Company: Cragar Product: Chromed Steel Wheels Model: 330 Series 15x7-5on4.5"pattern-4.5"backspace Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: Kmndobnny@uss.net

Details: I used these for several years on a stock '95 YJ with 30" BFG AT's and MT's. They looked ok when new, but with all the salt used here, they rusted quickly and required constant cleaning to maintain. The 15x7 with this backspace tucked 30's into the wheelwells perfectly, but spaced the spare off of the rubber tailgate bumpers a hair. A 5" spacing would have worked. The steelies were conducive to hammering back into shape, but were also warped if not trued again. I later switched to alum rims, and perform minimal maintenance now to resist corrosion.

Company: Bosch Product: Platinum Sparkplugs Model: For '95 2.5L Jeep Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: Kmndobnny@uss.net

Details:  I put these in my '78 CJ7 as well. It eventually achieved around 20mpg, which seems pretty good compared to the YJ (20mpg on a RARE day). It had a 1bbl carbed 258, 3spd man., Gumbo-Mud 32s, and 3.54s, while the YJ has a MPI 2.5L, 5spd O/D, BFG-MT30s, roofrack, and 4.11s. I think the disconnect and roofrack are hurting the YJ's mileage, as well as the 2.5L being overworked on the Hwy. These plugs did help BOTH vehicles get noticeably better mileage though (YJ once got 360/hwy miles on a tankful-usually around 220/city or so). Any power increases were negligible. I'll get another set of Bosch for my next tune-up.

Company: Smittybuilt Product: 3" dual tube bumpers Model: Bumpers for YJ - front riser/rear 2" receiver Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: kmndobnny@uss.net

Details: Nice appearance and sturdier than a rhino's backside (and the stockers). But they kill approach/departure angles. Jeep's been hit several times and bumped rocks too, bumpers barely show any effects and don't bend on a Hi-Lift. For better clearance try rock-style bumpers. For city traffic/hazardous drivers, their tough to beat. Usable for storage of small items (rags, gloves, wrenches) when space is scarce.

Company: Olympic Product: Sports Rack Model: For 86 to 95 Wrangler-gloss blk Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: kmndobnny@uss.net

Details: Rack was sent without hardware, used stainless instead. Brackets fit ok, but not perfect. Had to weld sturdier windshield brackets for it. Paint is now bubbling but...VERY versatile for carrying gear with a soft top. Doesn't affect approach/departure angles, yet I carry EVERYTHING. Thule/other racks adapt to fit easily for my surf/snowboards, bikes, etc. Once fit 3 people and all our toys for a month trip to CO, UT, & CA with enough room for the non-drivers to nap. I'll definitely buy another for the next Jeep.

Company: POWERTRAX Product: Lock Rite Model: Automatic Positive-Locking Differential Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: jrhike@bentonrea.com

Details: I installed Lock Rites in the front and back of my '97 TJ.  The front performed flawlessly and created very little noise.  The Lock Rite in the rear axle does well in the hills but in town is very jittery as well as noisy.

Company: MagikSeal Product: MagikSeal Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: mac@dirtroad.com

Details: We called MagikSeal to get some product information for one of our readers.  MagikSeal wouldn't even TALK to us to find out what we wanted!

Company: Bloomfield Manufacturing Product: Hi-Lift Jack 4XRac Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: G15057@email.mot.com

Details: If you own a '98 or newer TJ then you'll have to remove the front bumper pads to attach the mounts.  I couldn't mount it on the rear bumper because the spare hangs too low.  The weld quality was also very spotty.  But, it was a lot cheaper than something I could have fabricated myself.

Company: Dyneer Product: Detroit Locker Model: N/A Opinion: Take it or leave it. E-mail: JeepCO@aol.com

Details: The locker was great until it broke.  The problem is with customer service.  Took 6 months to resolve.  I ended up with ARB since it took so long with Dyneer.

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