I am looking at a 2004 rubicon and an 05 unlimited.  As far as running gear what are the main differences between these two jeeps.  I know nothing...about jeeps and looking to buy soon. Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Ken  

Is the Unlimited a Rubicon also?

If not the differences are that the Rubicon will have Goodyear MTR tires, Rubicon wheels, Dana 44 axles front and rear, the rocktrac 4.0:1 transfercase and selectable lockers front and rear. That should be it.  

the 05 ulimited is not a rubicon.  I was wondering if the rubicon really had that much better running gear.  I suppose the Dana 44 axles are much better?  Also the selectable lockers front and rear are also a good perk.  Was just wondering if I decided to go with a non rubicon if I would be wanting those options later.  

Yes if you really like 4 wheeling you will. just for the fact so when some one that knows whats up with jeeps looks at you they will know that you are in a capable rig,even stock.  

right on monstter....If you figure on mostly street driving and don't intend to go larger than 33" tires, the non rubi rinning gear will hold its own..selectable lockers are as good as it gets.

if you want the extra room and slightly better manners of the unlimited, get it and build it as needed.

really the only advantage of the front rubi d44 over the d30 is the larger ring gear, they both share axels, hubs brakes.....o' yeah and the air locker.  

Thanks alot...that is the kind of info I am looking for.  Now next question...got my eyes on an 06 rubi 6 speed with hard top $21500...think that is a good price?  

uh....yeah....  

do you have to have a newer one?.....

you'll be able to find an older model tj that is already lifted with many upgraded parts and axels for much less!

for example....the steal J project tech editor Hazel just sold, it was advertised @ 15,000 with probably 20,000 in upgrades that made it superior to even a rubicon!  

now that fastjeepwrangler dug up the post it was 15,900!!  

was $21,500 from a private seller?  

It must be a dealer or a modified rubi...

I just looked at the bluebook...It's right at $20,000..
make an offer..I rarely see them cheaper though..

http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/Spec_Glance.aspx?year=2006&make=Jeep&model=Wrangler&trimid=101974#trimsel  

I seen a nice tj in the trader for 18k with lots of mods.  

huh...now I see what happened...you accidentally cancelled your original account?

I can restore it for If you want!!!...as I just found out, I did the same thing myself....it works!