Upgrade to JT from JKU?

[uplandgunner]

I had a 2012 JKUR for almost four years, until I decided I needed a truck. Given that the Gladi wasn’t around back then, I bought a GMC Sierra, but once the Gladi came out, I got one. I bought it in KY, where I could get a JTR that was about $18K less than anything I could find in NOVA. A few less options, but nothing I needed.

I just received a full-height topper so that I can almost double my cargo volume. When I go hunting, especially with my boys or friends, I go all in with large volume of gear and comforts, and sometimes firewood, etc. …

All in all, I like the 2020 JTR a lot better than my 2012 JKUR. For one, I think the 8-speed makes it drive much better on the hwy. I also can carry a lot more.

If you’re thinking of getting one, I recommend test-driving it on the hwy first. I got lucky and have really good steering. But some experience a loose steering box.

What topper?

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[Harold0819]

I thought it would too but it's completely different. I loved my JK manual. The gearing on the new gen is completely different.

I never realized this before ordering. Just checked with a few others and was completely advised against a 6spd if I plan on larger tires. Was told as well as performance issues that there is a ton I have to do to prevent computer issues and errors. Was told that with the new powertrain the auto is absolutely the way to go.
Just checked FCA chat. My build is still in the scheduling stage. That updates and changes are still possible. Contacted my dealership and they are on it. Keeping fingers crossed that I caught it in time and can make the change

 

[MarineHawk]

What topper?

https://www.softopper.com/softopper

 

[JustinWPI11]

https://www.softopper.com/softopper

That looks like a great top. I can see how that would come in hand by for hauling hunting gear.

Thanks all for the good info on upgrading. Probably going to wait till after the holidays but getting pretty close to pulling the trigger on a JT. Will be sad to see the wrangler go if I do though.

 

[JustinWPI11]

Also, killer moose MarineHawk. I’ve shot 1 here in Maine and my wife just did last year too. I’ve winched three out of the woods with my wrangler so far.

 

[Oscar Indy]

I never realized this before ordering. Just checked with a few others and was completely advised against a 6spd if I plan on larger tires. Was told as well as performance issues that there is a ton I have to do to prevent computer issues and errors. Was told that with the new powertrain the auto is absolutely the way to go.
Just checked FCA chat. My build is still in the scheduling stage. That updates and changes are still possible. Contacted my dealership and they are on it. Keeping fingers crossed that I caught it in time and can make the change

Fingers crossed for ya. As a fellow diehard manual trans fan I wish they hadn't messed it up but the up side is this 8 speed is AMAZING. Hope you get it.

 

[MarineHawk]

That looks like a great top. I can see how that would come in hand by for hauling hunting gear.

Just put it on.

More pics here: https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/special-ops-jtr-w-softtopper.25408/

 

[MarineHawk]

Also, killer moose MarineHawk. I’ve shot 1 here in Maine and my wife just did last year too. I’ve winched three out of the woods with my wrangler so far.

Congrats to you and the misses on the mooses (or is it "meese"?).

I got mine in Alaska. It’s a little big for the 8’ ceilings in my new post-marriage rental home.

Also got a bear there a few years earlier.

 

[#HuckleberryJeep]

Thinking about upgrading to a JT from my 2013 JKU. I do a lot of hunting in the North Maine woods and my JKU has been great for that. But the JT seem like it would be a great for that as well. I also have a 16’5 Lund boat I like to tow and the JKU is okay at best towing it. Just looking for some 2 cents input and anyone that has upgraded from a JKU to JT and their thoughts. Thanks!

Best move I ever made. Loved my '16 JKU, but the JT is a light-years-ahead upgrade.

 

[Deola]

Hopefully your trade in value isn’t as bad as mine. I was looking at a JTR the other day and got a trade in value on my 16 jkur hard rock and felt sick after looking at the number. Looks like I’ll sell mine outright and then order my jtr

 

[JustinWPI11]

Best move I ever made. Loved my '16 JKU, but the JT is a light-years-ahead upgrade.

Thanks for the feed back. Any specifics that make the JT so much better?

Hopefully your trade in value isn’t as bad as mine. I was looking at a JTR the other day and got a trade in value on my 16 jkur hard rock and felt sick after looking at the number. Looks like I’ll sell mine outright and then order my jtr

I’ve never had a trade in offer that was even close to enough. I’ll plan to sell myself first then order.

 

[KennyKustom]

I traded a 17 Rubicon Recon Unlimited. I was happy with the trade value. ( first time ever )

 

[Jowen]

I kept my jku but traded in two other rubicons, still have lots of jeeps.

 

[Chillin@5]

I have a 16 JKU 75th manual.....love it. My brother bought a JT launch and raves about it. I thought for sure he was exaggerating....but I was hooked by mile 2 of my test drive in it. I found a launch on a dealer lot the next day and was driving it home the following. I have so much fun, I am choosing it for all my daily driving over my beloved BMW. It is a fantastic truck!

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