Fun Jeep Facts

Originally called GP for military General Purpose vehicle, Jeep became the new name in the late 1940's from the cartoon Popeye's "Eugene the Jeep". 

The SUV Cherokee model was meant to depict the civility and the ruggedness of the Native American Cherokees.

The military GP's (Jeeps) were initially produced by three companies- Willys, Ford and Bantom

The word Jeep is used as a common term for any 4-Wheel Vehicle in several countries across the world.

The company reverted to the classic round headlights for the TJ after people raised an outcry against the square lights.

The fenders on the earliest Jeeps were flat and not rounded like the later ones were. That's where the name "flatfender" originated from.

An old battered Jeep survived two beach landings and ended up receiving a Purple Heart.

Do YOU know any fun facts about Jeeps? Share with us!

Where Will You Take Your Jeep This Fall?

Have you ever taken part in a Jeep Jamboree? They happen all across the country all year long. The weather might be getting a little colder (it sure is in here in New England, so it’s time to turn those summer excursions into fall adventures). Whether it’s to a Jeep Jamboree, to your favorite off-roading spot, or on a dream trip, we want to know: Where will you take your Jeep vehicle this fall?


Below is a list of Jeep Jamborees happening around the country (and some autumn-flavored photos from our Jeep fans for inspiration).


24th Maine Mountains | Oct 3 - Oct 5 | Bethel, Maine
24th French Lick | Oct 3 - Oct 5 | French Lick, Indiana
15th Moab | Oct 17 - Oct 19 | Moab, Utah
20th Gateway to the Cumberlands | Oct 24 - Oct 26 | Williamsburg, Kentucky
24th Ouachita | Oct 24 - Oct 26 | Hot Springs, Arkansas
4th Cullman Alabama | Oct 31 - Nov 2 | Cullman, Alabama
1st Death Valley | Dec 5 - Dec 7 | Death Valley, California


Click here for more information on each Jamboree

Check in next month for more Jeep information, tips, facts, etc! 

- Lahti's Jeep

Trivia! 10 Things You Didn't Know about Jeep!

Greetings, Jeep Lovers!
Summer is winding down here in New England. Just for fun, we thought we'd put together a list of interesting Jeep trivia that you may not have come across. If you know a hardcore Jeep fan (other than yourself, of course) and want to check their knowledge, try dropping some of these on them...enjoy!

Q. What year was the Willys MB Jeep introduced?
A. 1941

Q. What year was the first civilian model introduced?
A. 1945 (this makes Jeep the oldest ORV/SUV brand on the market)

Q. How did the Jeep get its name?
A. This is actually a topic of much dispute. There are several theories, including: "GP" (possibly standing for "General Purpose" or "Government Purpose") became Jeep, or perhaps it was a nickname picked up from the "Jeep" character in Popeye comics popular at the time. The term "Jeep" was originally used to describe any small vehicle or gadget.

Q. How did Willys-Overland prove the Jeeps off road capabilities to government officials?
A. In 1941, they took various government officials and soldiers for a ride, driving up the steps of the U.S. Capitol building.

Q. If the term "Jeep" had other meanings, how did it come to be known for this brand of vehicle?
A. The Willys-Overland company was the only company still making Jeep vehicles continuously after WWII, and was granted the registered trademark in 1950.

Q. What three companies originally were granted permission to make Jeeps for the Army?
A. Bantam, Ford and Willys-Overland

Q. What was the original price per Jeep for the Willys-Overland military contract?
A. $648.74

Q. Where is the Jeep headquarters? (Hint - It hasn't moved since inception)
A. Toledo, Ohio

Q. What has General Motors and Chrysler Jeep been battling over for years?
A. The right to use seven slots in the grill of the Humvee vs. Jeep.

Q. What makes the Jeep Wrangler so practical as an off road vehicle?
A. It is one of the few remaining four-wheel drive vehicles with a solid front and rear axle.

We hope you enjoyed this little batch of Jeep Trivia. Now you have something to talk about on that next great American roadtrip! Have fun exploring in your Jeep!
Until next time, stay safe out there.
- J.M. for Lahti's

Roadtrips - The Best Drives in New England

Greetings, Jeep Lovers!
It's late July and we're at the height of summer here in beautiful New England. For a lot of people, that means Road TripTime! It's true that we have some crazy weather here, and winter is not easy...but we are also blessed with some of the most scenic drives in the country. Let's run through a few, so this coming weekend you can pack a basket, grab your shades, fill the tank and hit the road. Don't forget to bring some tunes and maybe even a camera, because these rides will not disappoint. Also, this is a great time to scout out locations you want to return this fall for leaf peeping!

Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Our first stop is the 36-mile stretch of road, nationally known as a sportsman's paradise (and let's face it, it's fun to say!). The Kancamagus Highway, also known as Rt. 112, winds through the spectacular White Mountain National Forest and is designated an American Scenic Byway. Definitely a favorite in the Fall, this drive will delight any time of the year, as long as you don't mind leaving it all behind. Take a step back in time to see unspoiled forests, falls, mountains and gorges, all relatively close to civilization. There's lodging, camping and nature activities galore, but even if you never leave the driver's seat, you won't be disappointed. Put this one on your list, for sure. Check directions from where you're coming from; for those of us leaving the dealership, you'll need to get on Rt. 2 East and find your way to Interstate 93N, keeping an eye open for Exit 32, NH112. Enjoy!

Route 6, Massachusetts
A number of our Jeep Lovers are also Beach Lovers, and if you count yourself among them, don't miss the opportunity to ride this 112 mile stretch of road, that meanders through Cape Cod. The National Seashore is ripe with panoramic views, quaint towns and tons of beaches.  Unlike the Kancamagus, this ride is a summer favorite, so be prepared to share the road. However, should you brave the pavement in the height of summer, you'll soon discover why so many people have joined you in your quest. There is something for everyone on Cape Cod. Activities, concerts, fine dining, antiquing, museums and don't forget miles of tidal pools, marshes and sand dunes. A complimentary digital download of the Cape Cod Travel Guide is available at www.capecodchamber.org (no affiliation). After perusing the pages, I'm willing to bet you'll fill up the Jeep and hit the road ASAP. Locals know, a fast-paced trip down I 495 S will pop you right into the mouth of Rt. 6. The rest is summer fun.

Route 100, Vermont
We've given you some great options for North and East. If you don't mind heading West for a bit, you'll be happy to discover Route 100 in Vermont. Another Fall favorite, you can get some great road trip miles under your belt by hitting this one up now. Clocking in at 138 miles of Green Mountain beauty, Route 100 rides all through the state, with old-growth vistas and some of that Yankee heritage we're so ripe with up here. If you're really adventurous, you can take this road all the way to Quebec, but that's beyond the scope of this post. Check out a number of stops on the National Register of Historic Places (including an authentic 19th century village - Weston, VT), see the rushing White and Black Rivers, and keep your notepad handy for places you want to book a ski trip this winter. Route 2 West (AKA the Mohawk Trail - another fine drive) to 112N to 100 (North or South, this is a long road) will get you there. Don't forget to sample some Maple syrups!

Ocean Drive, Newport, RI
Heading South? What this 10-mile stretch of road lacks in distance, it makes up for in opulence. Newport, RI, known as the playground of the rich and famous at the turn of the century, makes for a great daytrip. See how the industry barons lived by touring some of the mansions, relax and grab lunch, but don't forget Ocean Drive! This little loop is a great way to cap off an afternoon, providing some amazing views of the Atlantic and giving you time to ponder how you'll make your millions. A GPS will be helpful here, but to ease confusion, take I 495 S most of the way down. Those willing to do a bit of looking can find a number of ways to get there, however (Hint; I 395 S and MA 146 S will do the trick as well).

Ok, that's enough to get you started. We've covered the main points of the compass and checked out some neighboring states, as well as a few here at home. Use this as a launching pad. There's so many great drives in New England, we couldn't possibly cover them all here. So invest in a full tank of gas and see where your Jeep will bring you. You can't go wrong with a fresh batch of memories and a better understanding of the opportunities to delight your senses, right here in New England. Let us know what you think, or if I missed a favorite of yours, and until next time, stay safe out there!
- J.M. for Lahti's

   

How to Drive in Rain

Greetings Jeep Lovers!
Here in beautiful New England...well, let me restate that. Yes New England is beautiful, but I have to say, we've had more than our share of rainy, gray, wet days this summer. Thunderstorms for weeks straight, all through late May and most of June! This is not normal and I think we need to discuss it openly to stay safe. You see, it's true that rain means green grass, pretty flowers and mud - lots and lots of mud. So it's great for mud-boggers like us, but at the same time, rain (and it's cousin, fog) can be hazardous and really does require following a few tips to navigate.

First off, slow the heck down! Have you ever seen a car whiz by you on the highway, flying through the rain like it somehow provides more traction than tar on a sunny day? They're crazy! The truth is, hydroplaning is easier than you think - especially here in New England where the roads are sometimes less than 100% flat and even. Riding along at normal speeds can sometimes land you smack dab in the middle of a pretty deep puddle, which both affects your handling as well as shoots water all over oncoming traffic or sidewalk pedestrians. If you find yourself having to slow down, don't slam on those brakes - just ease off the gas. If doing so finds you tailgating the bumper of the car in front of you, you haven't been following the 3-second rule. Why not err on the side of caution and leave a 5-second buffer between you and the car in front? Everyone wants to go to the party - no one wants to stay and clean up, remember?

Speaking of tough weather; remember those snow blades that served you well all winter long? Well, it turns out the reason those work so well in the winter is because they are softer rubber. That means as soon as the temp warms up out there, you have to replace them with something more suitable. Check out the wiper section, because if a storm blows up constant, steady rainfall is not likely. You'll be driving through downpours that shift to mist and vice-versa. Your wipers need to be up to the task, especially if you take a bucketful to the windshield by that "ace driver" on the other side of the street who's going too fast and hits a puddle.

We Jeep owners love our tires, so I'm barely going to touch on how important it is not to be riding around on baldies - that's just silly. And you'll pay the price both in stopping power as well as get-up-and-go - you're just as likely to sit-and-spin. Baldies don't provide channels for the rain to kindly remove itself from under your traction space - not fun. If worst comes to worst and you're in a skid, ease off that gas, try to downshift and turn in the direction of the skid. And don't try to ford an impromptu river if you can't see the ground under it - you could completely lose traction. Even going through large, deep puddles can seriously affect braking power, so gently ride those brakes a bit afterward, to try to dry them off using the heat and friction.

Just a few more tips and I'll leave you to chase after sunnier days and summer road trips...Use your defrost to keep windows clear. If you've already defrosted and still can't see through them, it may be time to wash them. Turn on those lights we love so much. Fog-lights in particular are practically a safety requirement in New England; they can truly be lifesaving at times when the roof rack spots will just blind you in the fog. Last but not least, don't be afraid to pull over and have a snack, text a friend or read a book if things get too heavy. It's New England, folks...if you don't like the weather wait five minutes. Chances are that extreme downpour isn't a permanent fixture of the landscape. Enjoy the peace while it lasts, you'll probably save time and car damage by riding it out on the side of the road and picking up where you left off after.

Again, this is targeted towards the young and inexperienced (or anyone from the west coast who's not used to actual weather), so feel free to share the info with your kids or whoever you feel would benefit from it. Hopefully it will be a hot, sunny summer from here on, but just in case, until next time, stay safe out there!
- J.M. for Lahti's

Five Things I Love About Jeeps

Greetings, Jeep Lovers!
After a thorough drenching last week, things may be slowly warming up here in the great Northeast. The sudden changes in weather, that we in New England have come to expect, got me thinking about some of the reasons I love driving a Jeep. In fact, I thought it might be fun to make a list! Therefore, without further ado, let's run through the top 5 things I love about Jeeps - maybe some of them are your favorites too?

1. Driving Surface Flexibility
Showing some practicality up front, let's cover Driving Surfaces first. For safety and reliability, having a vehicle that can handle snow, rain, mud, sand and street surfaces is a huge benefit here in New England, as well as other places. Knowing that a blizzard, thunderstorm, mudslide or miscellaneous mess won't stop you from getting to work, the store, the kids' practices or miscellaneous place is a great comfort. We may not all be crashing through the jungle on our days off, but I've yet to find the surface I needed to traverse that my Jeep couldn't handle. Having made other automotive choices in the past, experience shows that 4-wheel drive tops all other options in certain circumstances. I still remember going snowboarding, following my buddy who was driving a very fast, very powerful, very German sports car, and watching him fishtail his way unsuccessfully up a hill covered with black ice. At that time, I couldn't lose traction if I tried. Jeeps handle all weather driving incredibly well in my experience.

2. Seasonal Flexibility
This had to be in the list as well, because there are not many rides that you can honestly say offer so many options for the various seasons. We love our seasons here (otherwise we'd live elsewhere), and having a vehicle that can change so much with each season is like having four autos in one. Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter each bring their own set of needs and activities and Jeep responds in kind. We'll cover this more in the Accessorizing discussion below, but basically, if you don't want to be bored, buy a Jeep.

3. Looks & Appearance
We can't leave this out, I mean, really. As our friend in Zoolander says, "There's more to life besides being really, really good looking." Well, nobody told my Jeep. If an iconic style award were up for grabs, Jeep would definitely be in the running. When you see them rolling down the road, you know it. Nothing looks like a Jeep, except a Jeep. And as options for personalizing them continue to get better and better, we get the best of both worlds; recognizable and individual at the same time. We love the way our Jeeps look. It's great to have a vehicle that looks as good as it performs, that can ride through the mud and dirt, providing hours of enjoyment, then get the hose and come out looking like a night on the town. Flexibility is the name of the game with Jeeps, are you noticing a theme here?

4. Options for Accessorizing
Oh yes, my friends...we've covered some pretty important themes so far, but only Jeep has made the additional options and accessories worthy of its own field of study. People love their Jeeps. That's part of the reason they can be tuned and toned so specifically towards your particular use or preferences. This is huge, and makes a big difference to the aforementioned reasons. Jeeps can be flexed towards particular surfaces, seasons and desired appearance by playing in the accessory space. Want to go off-roading? Done. Want lightweight doors and roof coverings to take advantage of warmer weather? No problem. Want to turn your Jeep into a rolling dance club, home base for camping or slick city commuter? You got it. Long before Apple launched the iPhone, Jeep had an "accessory for that", meaning whatever you wanted to do in your Jeep, you could get the parts to help you do it. And why not? You are you, and no one else. You deserve a vehicle that fits you and helps you accomplish your goals and desires. Jeep can do all that and more, growing and changing with you as your life develops into a work of art.

5. Room for All
Last, but certainly not least, we need to talk about the people sharing your life experiences with you. The lone motorcyclist may enjoy heading off into the sunset on his own...and the sports car driver, squeezing his or her date into the passenger seat with no room for a daybag or sports gear probably gets a kick out of zooming through the curves...but when you want to hit the road with friends, family or loved ones, you need someplace to put them. A Jeep is more than a means from point A to point B. It's a way of life. It's a rolling comedy show, road game, time capsule and visual tour all in one. It's you, your tribe, your gear, your favorite snacks and your pets exploring the best the world has to offer, together. Memories don't have a price tag. So get out there, make your Jeep your own, wave to each other, enjoy your time and make some memories! You'll be glad you did.

Until next time, stay safe out there.
J.M. for Lahti's

Taking Your Jeep Off-Road

Greetings, Jeep Lovers!
You know that part in the movie, when the action hero goes flying off the road in a vehicle and leads the camera on a bumpy, twisted ride through crazy terrain, only to emerge safely afterwards? Looks like such fun, right? Puddle running, leaping into the air, crashing through underbrush... Well, I'm sure it comes as no surprise that none of that happened the way it looked. Paths are carefully plotted out, debris removed, vehicles outfitted with thousands of dollars of equipment, and on top of all that, they're driven by professionals! But as the glimmer of Hollywood bedazzles our eyes, keep in mind that off-road driving is enjoyed by countless enthusiasts, and as the nice weather rolls around we wanted to discuss this enjoyable hobby. It's not quite so impossible as you may think.

The Place
Before we get started, let me make it clear that you can't just pull off the highway and go nuts...search out places that are specially designated to allow off-road drivers. The US National Park Service reminds us that in order to safely enjoy this hobby, you need to follow a few simple rules in terms of where to do it. It's not every park that allows Off Road Vehicles (ORVs), but when they do, it is clearly marked and regulated. Get your permit, look for the picture of the Jeep (and make sure it is not covered by a red circle with a slash through it). Be mindful of animals - many more are endangered than you may think. Get your permit, know the entrance and exit points, be courteous and be ready for a safety & equipment check by a Park Ranger.
That brings us to the next point...

The Parts
Jeeps are solid, well-built vehicles. Many are equipped with 4-wheel drive capabilities and perform excellent in mixed terrain and/or unseasonable weather. However, if you plan on really hitting the bumps and mud, you may find it beneficial to install some aftermarket parts. Although we are not affiliated in any way, you might want to check out the Drive Off Road Blog (http://www.driveoffroad.com/blog/) for some great tips and advice on what to add and where to add it. Basics we've already covered in this blog are; bigger profile tires, winches, and additional lighting and bumper options. You'll also most likely want a GPS system and, depending on where you'd like that GPS to lead you, invest in aftermarket gearing, skid plates (to protect the underbelly) and additional suspension. That brings us to the talent portion...

The Schools
There are actually a number of places scattered throughout the country that will train you on how to drive off-road. You do NOT just get in the car and go for it, unless you want to be injured. Again, we're not affiliated with them, but check out Overland Experts (at http://www.overlandexperts.com/). They are run out of Connecticut and offer classes in many levels (both professional and amateur). Even better, you don't need to bust up your beauty to enjoy them, they have specially outfitted vehicles for you to use!

Let's Go!   
We are not licensed and insured to instruct off-road driving, but with the resources available, I'm sure you can find a way to get into this amazing hobby. In case you find yourself having to wing it, the barest bones instruction goes like this; put both hands on the wheel, keep your thumbs UP and out of the wheel (that way, if you hit something and the wheel shoots to one direction you won't break them), consider using the left foot to work the brakes and keep that right foot smoothly planted, rolling on and off the gas as smoothly as possible. I urge you to do your research and consider outfitting your vehicle to handle the workload, but don't shy away from the trails; there's a whole world out there, far from the blacktop, where fun rides lead to stunning vistas and favorite memories can be made.
Until next time, stay safe!
J.M. for Lahti's Jeep