Audio
- Pioneer DEH-P8400BH head unit (opens in new tab)
- Bluetooth and modern media connectivity
Simple & Trail Ready
A Well-Sorted Classic Wrangler
This 2002 Wrangler Sahara balanced the iconic simplicity of the TJ platform with thoughtful accessories and extensive mechanical renewal.
Purchased on July 12, 2012, the green-and-tan Jeep was made more capable, reliable and enjoyable without losing its original character. It served as both a daily driver and a weekend trail rig before being sold on June 7, 2013.
- Platform
- 2002 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
- Generation
- Wrangler TJ
- Exterior
- Classic Green
- Interior
- Tan
- Purchased
- July 12, 2012 / 147,612 miles
- Sold
- June 7, 2013 / 156,095 miles
Everyday simplicity.
Weekend capability.
Thoughtful Additions
Upgrades & Accessories
A focused selection of trail, open-air and in-cab equipment made the short-wheelbase Sahara more versatile without overcomplicating it.
Linked component names open the manufacturer's website in a new tab.
Wheels & Tires
Top Support
- Skid Row Off Road Tonno Prop (opens in new tab)
- Support for reduced tonneau-cover movement
Open-Air System
- Bestop door surrounds
- Bestop Header Bikini Top
- Bestop Duster Deck Cover
- Bestop Safari Top and Windjammer
Top Down
One Jeep, Multiple Configurations
The coordinated Bestop components made it easy to adapt the Wrangler to changing weather and different kinds of trips while retaining the open-air experience that defines a TJ.
Reliability First
Mechanical Restoration
The most important work happened beneath the surface. Known TJ wear items and previous repair issues were addressed proactively to create a dependable, well-sorted Jeep.
- 8,483
- Miles driven during ownership
- 11
- Months of ownership
- 6
- Core systems serviced
Engine & Cooling
New radiator and oil pan, plus replacement spark plugs.
Suspension & Steering
New front stabilizer links and shocks, along with a replacement steering box.
Drivetrain & Exhaust
New front axle U-joints, wheel bearings and muffler. The damaged 4WD transfer-case shift mechanism was repaired after it had been crushed.
Finished Properly
Body, Interior & Brakes
- Replaced the driver's seat
- Replaced seized door hinges and professionally repainted them
- Corrected an improperly installed brake line from a previous repair
- Restored the braking system to proper factory operation
Ownership summary: Rather than simply replacing worn parts, this build combined tasteful accessories with preventative restoration to preserve a capable classic Wrangler.
Trail Days
The Sahara in the Wild
A compact, open-air Jeep at home on wooded trails, muddy two-tracks and everyday roads.
Complete Build Sheet
Parts, Upgrades & Restoration
Every documented addition and repair, grouped by system. Linked accessories open an official manufacturer page; maintenance items are identified as service work.
Accessories
Bestop Open-Air System
Engine, Suspension & Steering
- Radiator and oil panReplacement service
- Spark plugsReplacement service
- Front stabilizer links and shocksReplacement service
- Steering boxReplacement service
Drivetrain, Exhaust & Brakes
- Front axle U-joints and wheel bearingsReplacement service
- 4WD transfer-case shift mechanismMechanical repair
- MufflerReplacement service
- Brake line correctionFactory-operation restoration
Body & Interior
- Driver's seatReplacement
- Door hingesReplacement and professional repaint