Autoweek - October 18, 1993

Wholly about Jeeps

One book that's worthy of having 'bible' in its title

Dozens of publishers call their books "bibles," Surely you've seen them: "The Dentist's Bible," which could be subtitled, "How to Use a Jackhammer while Causing Minimal Pain with Maximum Billings." Or how about "The Car Collector's Bible," usually depicting three clapped-out '41 Mercurys sitting in farmers' fields, Finally, there's those ever-popular sports-lovers bibles, such as "More than You Ever Wanted Ito Know about Underwater Basket Weaving." Such books don't hold a candle to this one, because if you own a Jeep, be it a Cherokee or Pickup - or are even contemplating such a purchase-look no further; this really is a bible for Jeep owners.

Author Ludel is a truck mechanic and a shop instructor, and merely glancing through the book tells you he knows what he's talking about. It's all here: There's a 31-page historical section, starting with the Willys - Overland military prototype and going through the station wagons (as they were then called), up to the current Cherokees and Grand Cherokees, Chapter Two discusses buying a new or used Jeep, detailing what to look for, which models to avoid and common problem areas.

Chapter Three is titled "Operating Your Jeep," and even covers on - and off-road driving techniques.

And then it begins in earnest: The next 16 chapters - or some 265 pages - cover Jeep mechanicals, including maintenance and preservation, trouble-shooting, engine tune-up, emissions, cooling system repairs and more, If it's Jeep-related, it's in here.

Then there are the appendixes, including information sources on Jeep shops specializing in everything from axles to tires; what tools are musts for Jeep work; engine break-in periods; and, well, you get the idea. This is one thorough guide.

How would we improve the book? The photography could use some spicing up - reading an entire book with pictures of water pump gaskets, window cap distributors and clutch release arms hasn't really changed our lives. But, keeping in mind that this is first and foremost an owners' guide, we'll admit the photos and illustrations are helpful. And since Jeep owners are likely to use the book on a daily basis, it should be spiral bound so that when you're underneath your '48 CJ-2A with a glop of grease drooling down, ready to fall into your eye, the thing won't flop shut.

Other than that, there isn't another blessed suggestion we can offer that could make this "bible" more complete.

Article from and courtesy of Autoweek - October 18, 1993