How To Remove Doors From Jeep Wrangler

Taking the doors off your Jeep Wrangler can be a fun and practical task, especially when the weather is nice and you want to enjoy an open-air drive. This guide will walk you through the steps to safely remove and store your Jeep's doors. Whether you have a newer model with power features or an older one, these instructions will help you get it done easily.

Key Takeaways

• Start by rolling down the windows and folding in the side mirrors to avoid any damage.

• Unhook the black safety straps and unplug any wiring if your Jeep has power windows and locks.

• Use a socket wrench to remove the nuts and bolts that secure the doors.

• Lift the doors straight up to remove them after all bolts are loosened.

• Store the doors in a safe place to prevent any damage when they are off the vehicle.

Preparing Your Jeep Wrangler for Door Removal

Before you start removing the doors from your Jeep Wrangler, it's important to get everything ready. This will make the process smoother and help avoid any damage.

Rolling Down the Windows

First, roll down the windows. This step is crucial because it protects the window within the door frame from accidental breakage. Rolling down the windows also makes the doors easier to handle and move around.

Folding in the Side Mirrors

Next, fold in the side mirrors. This will prevent any damage to the mirrors when your Wrangler doors are being stored. It's a simple step but very important for keeping your mirrors safe.

Gathering Necessary Tools

Finally, gather all the tools you'll need. Jeep usually provides a fold-out instruction card and a small ratchet with Torx 40 and 50 attachments. If you don't have these, you can contact a parts center to get them. Having the right tools on hand will make the door removal process much easier.

Getting everything ready before you start can save you a lot of time and trouble. Make sure you have all the tools and follow these steps to protect your Jeep and its parts.

Disconnecting Electrical Components

Before you start, disconnect the battery to ensure safety. This step is crucial to avoid any electrical mishaps.

Unplugging Wiring Pigtails

Locate the wiring pigtail, which is a bundle of wires covered in black cloth. This is usually found under the dash or near the b-pillar. Press the release clip on the plastic wire pigtail and pull it backward to disconnect the wiring. If your Jeep doesn't have power windows or locks, you can skip this step.

Handling Power Windows and Locks

For Jeeps with power windows and locks, make sure to carefully unplug the wiring. Look for little clips to release the components. Once disconnected, tuck the cables away safely to prevent any damage.

Always handle electrical components with care to avoid damaging them.

Removing the Safety Straps

Locating the Black Safety Straps

Inside the door jamb, you'll find a black safety strap. This strap is designed to prevent the door from opening too far and causing damage to the body of your Jeep Wrangler.

Unhooking the Straps

To disconnect the strap, simply unhook it from the body of the Jeep. The other end will stay connected to the door itself. This step is usually straightforward and doesn't require any special tools.

Remember, the safety strap usually keeps the door from opening up into the body of the Jeep.

Loosening the Nuts and Bolts

To start removing your Jeep Wrangler's doors, you need to loosen the nuts and bolts. Each door has two bolts that hold it in place. These bolts are part of the hinge assembly.

Using the Correct Socket Wrench

Use a 13-millimeter socket and wrench to remove the nuts at the bottom of each bolt. It's best to use a six-point socket instead of a twelve-point one. This reduces the chances of damaging the paint on the nuts.

Turning the Nuts Counter-Clockwise

Turn the nuts counter-clockwise to loosen them. Be careful not to apply too much force, as it's easy to damage the paint during this process.

Remember, these hard top quick removal fastener thumb screws and nut kit work with almost all Jeep Wranglers, including CJ, YJ, TJ, JK, Sports, Freedom, Sahara, Rubicon, and Unlimited models.

Lifting the Doors Off

Grabbing the Door Handles

With the nuts removed, reach through the open window to get a good grip on the door handles, both inside and outside. Make sure you have a firm hold before you start lifting.

Lifting the Door Straight Up

Once you have a solid grip, lift the door straight up. This will disconnect it from the brackets holding it in place. If the door is heavy, you might need a friend to help. Be prepared, as factory steel doors can weigh up to 50 pounds!

If the door is stuck, try soaking the hinges in penetrating oil for ten minutes. This can help loosen any rust or dirt.

Storing Your Jeep Doors Safely

When your Jeep's doors are off, it's crucial to find a secure spot to keep them safe. Avoid dents and scratches by placing wooden blocks on the ground and covering the doors with moving blankets. For a more advanced option, consider the RUGGED RIDGE WALL MOUNT DOOR HOLDER KIT. Remember, these are painted parts, so handle them with care. Don't drop the doors randomly; treat them like fragile items. Ensure the doors are placed where they won't be disturbed or knocked over.

Reinstalling the Doors

Aligning the Door Bolts

Start by aligning the door bolts with the hinges on your Jeep. This step is crucial to ensure the door fits properly. Make sure the bolts are straight and line up perfectly with the hinge holes.

Securing the Nuts and Bolts

Once the bolts are aligned, begin securing them by turning the nuts clockwise. Use a socket wrench to tighten them, but be careful not to overtighten. Repeat this process for each bolt to ensure the door is firmly attached.

Remember, securing the nuts and bolts properly is essential for the safety and functionality of your Jeep doors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dealing with Stuck Bolts

One common issue when removing Jeep Wrangler doors is dealing with stuck bolts. Stuck bolts can be frustrating and may require extra effort to loosen. First, ensure you are using the correct socket wrench size. If the bolt remains stuck, try gently tapping it with a hammer to break any rust or debris. If it still won't budge, move on to the next step.

Using Penetrating Oil

Penetrating oil can be a lifesaver when dealing with stubborn bolts. Spray a generous amount of penetrating oil on the stuck bolt and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help to loosen any rust or grime that may be causing the bolt to stick. After waiting, try turning the bolt again with your wrench. If it still doesn't move, you may need to repeat the process.

If you're still having trouble, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic to avoid damaging your vehicle.

Special Considerations for Different Jeep Models

When removing doors from a Jeep Wrangler, it's important to note that different models may have unique requirements. Understanding these differences can make the process smoother and prevent damage.

Conclusion

Taking the doors off your Jeep Wrangler can seem like a big task, but with the right tools and steps, it’s pretty simple. Always start by rolling down the windows and folding in the mirrors to keep them safe. Remember to unhook any safety straps and unplug the wiring if your Jeep has power features. Using a socket wrench, carefully remove the nuts and bolts. With a bit of practice, you’ll get faster each time. Enjoy the open-air experience that makes Jeep Wranglers so special!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I roll down the windows before removing the doors?

Rolling down the windows makes it easier to lift the doors off and helps prevent the windows from getting damaged.

What tools do I need to remove the doors?

You'll need a socket wrench, usually with a 13mm socket. Some Jeeps come with a special tool kit that includes everything you need.

How do I disconnect the wiring for power windows and locks?

Look for the wiring pigtails inside the door frame. Unplug them carefully to disconnect the power windows and locks.

What are the safety straps and how do I remove them?

The safety straps are black straps inside the door jamb that keep the doors from swinging too far. Simply unhook them to remove.

How do I loosen the nuts and bolts?

Use a socket wrench to turn the nuts counter-clockwise until they come off. Be sure to use the correct size socket.

What should I do if the bolts are stuck?

If the bolts are stuck, try using penetrating oil to loosen them. Spray the oil on the bolts and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.

How do I lift the doors off?

Grab the door handles from both the inside and outside. Lift the door straight up to remove it from the hinges.

Where should I store the doors once they are removed?

Choose a safe, dry place to store the doors. Make sure to protect them from scratches and other damage.