Running without doors on your Jeep TJ means you need mirrors mounted to the windshield hinges or cowl. The right Jeep TJ mirrors doors off setup keeps you legal and safe while giving you that open-air freedom. Let’s get straight into what works best for your rig.
Jeep Tj Mirrors Doors Off: Why You Need Them
Driving with the doors off is one of the best parts of owning a Jeep TJ. But most states require at least one rearview mirror. Without doors, your stock side mirrors go with them. That leaves you blind to traffic behind you.
Doorless mirrors attach directly to the windshield hinges or the cowl. They don’t need door panels to work. They also stay put when you take the doors off for the season.
Some people try to get away without mirrors. That’s risky. A ticket for missing mirrors can cost more than a good set of mirrors. Plus, you need to see what’s behind you when changing lanes or backing up.
Legal Requirements For Doorless Driving
Every state has different mirror laws. Most require at least one rearview mirror. Some states demand both a left and a right mirror. Check your local laws before you hit the road.
Federal regulations say vehicles must have a rearview mirror. The driver side mirror is also required in most states. The passenger side mirror is optional in some places.
If you get pulled over without mirrors, you could face a fine. The ticket might be for an equipment violation. It’s not worth the hassle when good mirrors are affordable.
Types Of Jeep Tj Mirrors For Doorless Use
There are three main types of mirrors for doorless Jeeps. Each has pros and cons. Your choice depends on your budget and how often you run doorless.
- Hinge pin mirrors – These slide into the hinge pins on your windshield frame. They’re easy to install and remove. They also fold flat when not in use.
- Cowl mounted mirrors – These bolt to the cowl area near the windshield base. They’re more permanent but offer a clean look. They don’t interfere with the windshield fold-down.
- Door frame mirrors – These clamp onto the door hinge area. They work with or without doors. But they can be bulky and may vibrate at highway speeds.
Best Materials And Build Quality
You want mirrors that can handle mud, rain, and sun. Cheap plastic mirrors crack and fade fast. Aluminum or stainless steel mirrors last longer. They resist rust and corrosion.
Look for mirrors with stainless steel hardware. The bolts and brackets should not rust. Rubber gaskets help prevent scratches on your paint. Glass mirrors should be shatterproof or have a protective coating.
Some mirrors have a convex shape. This gives you a wider field of view. It helps you see blind spots better. But objects appear smaller and farther away in convex mirrors.
How To Install Jeep Tj Mirrors For Doorless Driving
Installing doorless mirrors is a simple job. Most kits come with all the hardware you need. You can do it in your driveway with basic tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Tools You’ll Need
- Socket set or wrench set
- Allen wrenches (hex keys)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Thread locker (Loctite or similar)
- Clean rag
Step 1: Remove The Door Hinge Pins
If you’re using hinge pin mirrors, start by removing the hinge pins. Use a punch and hammer to tap the pins out. Or use a hinge pin removal tool if you have one. Keep the pins in a safe place for later.
Some mirrors come with replacement pins. These have a threaded end for the mirror arm. Follow the instructions that come with your mirrors.
Step 2: Install The Mirror Bracket
Slide the mirror bracket into the hinge pin hole. Make sure it sits flush against the hinge. Tighten the set screw with an Allen wrench. Don’t overtighten or you could strip the threads.
For cowl mounted mirrors, find the mounting holes on the cowl. Some Jeeps have pre-drilled holes. Others need you to drill new holes. Use a center punch to mark the spot before drilling.
Step 3: Attach The Mirror Arm
Slide the mirror arm into the bracket. Adjust the angle so the mirror points toward the rear. Tighten the locking nut or screw. Check that the arm doesn’t wobble.
Some mirrors have a ball joint for adjustment. This lets you fine-tune the mirror angle. Tighten the ball joint with the included wrench or Allen key.
Step 4: Adjust The Mirror Glass
Get in the driver’s seat. Adjust the mirror so you can see the lane behind you. You should see the side of your Jeep in the inner edge of the mirror. This gives you a good reference point.
Repeat the process for the passenger side. Adjust it so you can see traffic in the next lane. Have a friend stand behind the Jeep to help you get the angle right.
Step 5: Apply Thread Locker
Vibration can loosen mirror bolts over time. Apply a drop of thread locker to each bolt. This keeps them tight even on rough trails. Let the thread locker cure for 24 hours before driving.
Common Installation Mistakes
- Not tightening the set screw enough – mirrors will sag or fall off
- Over tightening – strips threads or cracks the bracket
- Forgetting thread locker – bolts loosen from vibration
- Installing on the wrong hinge – some mirrors only fit the lower hinge
- Not checking clearance with the windshield – mirrors can hit the glass when folding
Top 5 Jeep Tj Mirrors For Doors Off Use
Not all mirrors are created equal. Some are built for daily driving. Others are meant for off-road use only. Here are five solid options that work well for doorless driving.
1. Rugged Ridge Hinge Pin Mirrors
These are a popular choice for Jeep TJ owners. They slide into the hinge pins and fold flat when not in use. The mirror head is large enough to give good visibility. They come with stainless steel hardware.
Pros: Easy install, fold flat, good visibility. Cons: Can vibrate at highway speeds, need to remove hinge pins.
2. Crown Automotive Cowl Mirrors
These mount to the cowl near the windshield base. They have a classic look that matches older Jeeps. The mirror arm is adjustable for different viewing angles. They don’t interfere with the windshield fold-down.
Pros: Clean look, permanent mount, no hinge pin removal. Cons: Requires drilling, more expensive than hinge pin mirrors.
3. Bestop Door Frame Mirrors
These clamp onto the door hinge area. They work with or without doors. The mirror head is large and adjustable. They’re easy to remove when you want a clean look.
Pros: Versatile, large mirror head, easy to remove. Cons: Bulky, can vibrate, may interfere with door operation.
4. Quadratec Hinge Pin Mirrors
These are similar to Rugged Ridge but at a lower price. They fit the TJ’s hinge pins perfectly. The mirror arm is made of aluminum for lightweight strength. They come with a lifetime warranty.
Pros: Affordable, lightweight, good warranty. Cons: Mirror head is smaller than some competitors, may need adjustment after off-road use.
5. Mopar OEM Style Mirrors
These are factory-style mirrors that mount to the door hinge area. They look like the original mirrors but are designed for doorless use. They have a convex glass for a wider view.
Pros: OEM look, good visibility, durable. Cons: Expensive, require specific brackets, not as adjustable as aftermarket options.
Adjusting Your Mirrors For Optimal Visibility
Proper mirror adjustment is key for safe driving. You want to minimize blind spots. Here’s how to set them up right.
Driver Side Mirror Adjustment
- Sit in your normal driving position.
- Lean your head to the left until it touches the window glass.
- Adjust the mirror so you can see the side of your Jeep in the inner edge.
- Return to your normal position. You should see the lane next to you.
Passenger Side Mirror Adjustment
- Lean your head to the right until it’s near the center console.
- Adjust the mirror so you can see the side of your Jeep in the inner edge.
- Return to your normal position. You should see the lane next to you.
Dealing With Vibration
Vibration is a common issue with doorless mirrors. The mirrors shake at highway speeds. This makes it hard to see traffic behind you. Here are some fixes.
- Add rubber washers between the bracket and hinge. This dampens vibration.
- Tighten all bolts and set screws. Loose parts vibrate more.
- Use a stiffer mirror arm. Some aftermarket arms are thicker and vibrate less.
- Apply thread locker to all bolts. This prevents loosening from vibration.
Maintaining Your Jeep Tj Mirrors
Doorless mirrors take a beating from the elements. Mud, rain, and sun can damage them over time. Here’s how to keep them in good shape.
Cleaning The Mirrors
Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the mirror glass. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the reflective coating. Dry the mirror with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
Clean the bracket and arm with a damp rag. Remove any mud or debris that could cause rust. Dry all parts thoroughly after washing.
Lubricating Moving Parts
Apply a silicone spray to the ball joints and pivot points. This keeps them moving smoothly. It also prevents squeaking and binding. Wipe off excess lubricant to avoid attracting dirt.
Do not use oil-based lubricants. They attract dust and grime. Silicone spray is better because it stays clean and dry.
Storing Mirrors When Not In Use
If you remove the mirrors for winter or long storage, keep them in a dry place. Wrap them in a soft cloth or bubble wrap. Store them in a box or bag to prevent scratches.
Check the hardware before reinstalling. Look for rust or corrosion. Replace any damaged bolts or washers. Apply fresh thread locker before reinstalling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeep Tj Mirrors Doors Off
Do I Need Mirrors On Both Sides When Driving Doorless?
Most states require at least a driver side mirror. Some states also require a passenger side mirror. Check your local laws to be sure. It’s safer to have both mirrors for better visibility.
Can I Use My Stock Mirrors With The Doors Off?
No, stock mirrors are attached to the door panels. When you remove the doors, the mirrors come off too. You need aftermarket mirrors that mount to the windshield hinges or cowl.
Will Hinge Pin Mirrors Work With A Soft Top?
Yes, most hinge pin mirrors are designed to work with soft tops. They don’t interfere with the top’s operation. Make sure the mirror arm doesn’t hit the top when folded.
How Do I Stop My Mirrors From Vibrating?
Use rubber washers between the bracket and hinge. Tighten all bolts and set screws. Apply thread locker to prevent loosening. Consider a stiffer mirror arm for less vibration.
Can I Fold My Windshield Down With Cowl Mirrors Installed?
Yes, cowl mirrors are designed to allow windshield fold-down. They mount to the cowl, not the windshield frame. The mirror arm may need to be adjusted or removed for full fold-down.
Tips For Safe Driving Without Doors
Driving doorless is fun, but it requires extra caution. Here are some tips to stay safe.
Watch For Debris
Without doors, you’re exposed to road debris. Rocks, gravel, and trash can fly into the cabin. Wear sunglasses or safety glasses to protect your eyes. Keep your windows up if you have a soft top.
Be Aware Of Blind Spots
Doorless mirrors help, but you still have blind spots. Check over your shoulder before changing lanes. Use your mirrors in combination with head checks. Consider adding a rearview camera for extra safety.
Secure Loose Items
Anything not secured can fly out of the Jeep. Strap down gear in the cargo area. Keep loose items in a bag or box. Don’t put items on the dashboard or seats where they can blow away.
Dress For The Weather
Doorless driving means no protection from the elements. Wear sunscreen on sunny days. Bring a jacket for cool evenings. Rain can soak you quickly, so have a plan for sudden storms.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Jeep TJ mirrors doors off setup is about safety and legality. Hinge pin mirrors are easy and affordable. Cowl mirrors offer a cleaner look. Door frame mirrors give you versatility. Pick the type that fits your driving style and budget.
Install them correctly with thread locker and proper adjustment. Maintain them regularly to keep them working well. With the right mirrors, you can enjoy doorless driving without worry. Stay safe out there and enjoy the open air.