Jeep Momma a Podcast Host!

I have been making some guest appearances on the XJTalkShow.com recently. It all started back last fall when Tony from the XJTalkShow asked if I would do an interview on his podcast. We talked about my new found interest in Jeeps and Off Roading. 

Screenshot of Jeep Talk Show podcast AKA XJTalk show

Eventually Tony and Josh asked if I wanted to record a "Wrangler Talk" segment. Which of course I did, and had a really great time. I ended up filling in for Josh one night when he was sick. Then my recorded "Wrangler Talk" segments turned into live segments.  

Jeep Momma selfie with Jeep

I am excited to announce Tony and Josh have asked me to be a permanent host on their -- now our -- XJTalkShow.  I will still continue to have my "Wrangler Talk" segment, and will also be doing weekly product reviews.  I am looking forward to sharing my experiences with fellow Jeepers. I am also thrilled that I will be able to continue to gain experience in the World of Jeeps. 

Jeep Momma selfie with rock sliders

Every Monday night at 11pm Eastern time we record the podcast live at www.XJTalkShow.com.  There is also a chat room where we interact with folks listening in. Then on Mondays, the podcast is available for download. 

The audio download -- Episode 170 "Big Announcement"

Or the video version -- Episode 170 "Big Announcement"

Either one you listen too I hope you will continue to come back and each week!

In early 2022 I was asked to step down as a co-host on this podcast. Since then I started a new podcast - The Off-Road Insiders Podcast, my New Podcast Journey. 

Raxiom LED Light Install

Jeep Off-Road Aftermarket Lights

Raxiom Light with wiring harness. 

Extreme Terrain sent me a set of Raxiom 3" LED Lights to test out on my Jeep. I was intimidated at the prospect of hooking up electrical parts to my Jeep but once I started I realized I could do it. 

Raxiom 3" LED Lights

3" Raxiom LED light

I decided to mount them on the A pillars near the windshield. I needed the light mounts for this install. The installation of the mounts and lights were a pretty simple job. 

Install Step 1

Install Step 2

Install Step 3

Install Step 4

Install Step 5

Install Step 6

Check out my Jeep Momma Raxiom Light Install Video 

Once these 6 steps are completed the wires can be connected. Thanks to the Jeep community (JKOwners Forum) for helping inform me of the proper wiring for vehicles lights.

Now that my Raxiom 3 inch LED Lights are mounted to the A pillars of my Rubicon, it is time to wire them up. I am using the Lifetime LED Switch and Wiring Kit from Extreme Terrain. It will make for an easier job to wire the lights.  

• Lifetime LED Switch and Wiring Kit - Universal Application 

• The power to relay wire has a in-line fuse rated at 20a and is ~36 inches in length

• The relay is a mini-type 30a relay

• The switch is a mini toggle switch

• You can run 1 or 2 lights off of this wiring harness

• Universal application ('87-'15 Wranglers)

The wrong way

The initial wiring, I did on my lights, was based on what we used to wire inside our home. This will not work in a vehicle, especially a Jeep that goes off roading. Thanks to the wonderful Jeep community for giving me lots of advice on how to properly connect the wires. 

The Wrong Way

The first thing I did with my original wiring was undo the tape, wire nuts and wires. I re-stripped the wires. Then I set forth on soldering all the wire connections.

Wiring Location

I connected the driver side light wires to two wires, and strung them along the hood. The connection I used was soldering the wires, then adding some heat shrink material. Just for a little added protections I used liquid tape, and then some Super 33+ vinyl tape.    

Wiring Connections

The next step was to connect the driver side light wires, passenger side light wires and the wiring kit together. I used the same connection method with these wires as I did with the driver side light. 

Wiring Connections 

The next step was to find the firewall hole, and pull through the wires for the switch.  It took me quite awhile to find the hole. Finally -- I went online and asked the Jeep community for help. I used the hole on the passenger side. I just removed the side panel on the dash, and there it was. It took a little work to pull the wires through. I did need to cut those wires because the plug was too big for the hole. If you watch my You Tube video you can see exactly where this hole is. 

Re-connecting plug

Once the wire was pulled through, I again soldered and added heat shrink, liquid tape and tape to those wires. 

Wiring on Battery

The final step before I tested the lights out was to hook up the wiring kit to the battery. NOTE: Check out this blog post for Proper Wiring at this point. 

Then it was time to see if I hooked it all up correctly. I did, and boy are they bright. They are brighter than I expected, and the glare wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be.

Lights at night

Lights on my Jeep. 

 

This is a huge accomplishment for me working outside my comfort zone. I now have a new skill under my belt. 

•  ExtremeTerrain provided the LED light for review. No additional compensation received. All opinions are my own. 

Jeep Momma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon’s website. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Jeep Shifter Knob Install

Jeep Momma Shifter Knob Install

Searching for this How To on the internet is deceiving. Some YouTubers make it look really easy to remove the factory shifter knobs. In my efforts to replace mine I realized it isn't as easy as they make it look. My video is a real representation of how the shifter knob swap will go.  

Watch my YouTube Video How to Install a Jeep Transfer Case Shifter Knob

Buy Here👉 Drake Shift Knob

Transfer Case Shifter Knob Removal

Install Steps 

Remove the old shift knob. First, with a flat-head screwdriver, try to detach or pop the bottom collar down away from the shift knob. There is no reason to remove the top silver cap. 
Once the bottom collar is detached you need to just pull up on the knob. It is supposed to come right off. The Transfer Case Shift knob is a lot more difficult to remove.  

Jeep Momma removing shifter knob. 

I tried to braced my legs on either side of the shifter, and grab onto the knob with a tight grip. I then pulled as hard as I could. It popped off on the first yank!

New drake off-road shifter knob

The next step was to slide the new Drake Shift knob onto the shaft. Then the directions stated to use the original screw removed to tighten it onto the shaft. 

Set screw in Drake off-road shifter knob. 

The set screw is in the shift knob. With a small allen wrench you can tighten it on.

For more DIY Modifications check out my Jeep Momma's Modifications page. 

     

How to Clean and Protect Your Jeep Soft Top: Complete Care Guide for Long-Lasting Performance

Complete Care Guide for Long-Lasting Performance

Updated: 2026

Your Jeep's soft top is one of the hardest-working parts of your Wrangler. It spends every day exposed to sun, rain, snow, mud, trail dust, bird droppings, tree sap, and everything else Mother Nature throws at it.

After owning Jeeps and wheeling them for more than 10 years, I've learned one important lesson:

Taking care of your soft top is much easier and far less expensive than replacing it.

With the right products and a little routine maintenance, your soft top can stay looking great for many years.

Quick Answer

How do you clean a Jeep soft top?

Use a cleaner specifically designed for Jeep soft tops, gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and allow it to air dry. Avoid household cleaners like bleach, ammonia, dish soap, or alcohol-based products, which can damage both the fabric and vinyl windows.

Soft Top Care Collage

Why Soft Top Maintenance Matters

Your soft top isn't just a roof.

It protects:

• your interior
• your passengers
• your electronics
• your investment

Without regular maintenance, you may begin to notice:

• faded fabric
• cracked vinyl windows
• leaking seams
• stiff zippers
• mold and mildew
• permanent stains

A little preventative care goes a long way.

My Experience

I've driven my Jeep through Minnesota & Colorado winters, the Wyoming wind, muddy trails, dusty backroads, and long road trips.

I've learned that quality Jeep-specific cleaners really do make a difference.

I personally use the Bestop Vinyl Care Kit, and it's been simple to use while helping keep my windows clear and my soft top looking great.

Because a replacement soft top costs thousands of dollars, I think spending a little on proper maintenance products is money well spent.

What You'll Need

I recommend keeping a small soft top care kit in your garage.

My Jeep Soft Top Care Kit

✔ Bestop Soft Top Cleaner

✔ Bestop Vinyl Window Cleaner

✔ Vinyl Protectant

✔ Soft-bristle detailing brush

✔ Microfiber towels

✔ Garden hose

✔ Spray bottle

These are products I actually use to help extend the life of my Jeep's soft top.

Bestop Cleaning Products

Step 1: Clean the Fabric

Dirt acts like sandpaper.

Every time you fold your top, tiny particles rub against the fabric.

At least once each month:

• Rinse off loose dirt.
• Spray with a Jeep-safe fabric cleaner.
• Gently scrub using a soft brush.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Allow the top to air dry completely.

Never pressure wash the fabric.

Step 2: Clean the Vinyl Windows

The windows are usually the first thing people accidentally damage.

Never use:

✘ Paper towels

✘ Household glass cleaner

✘ Ammonia

✘ Alcohol cleaners

Instead:

• Use a vinyl-safe cleaner.
• Wipe with a clean microfiber towel.
• Always wipe gently to avoid scratching.

Keeping the windows clean also improves visibility on the trail.

Step 3: Don't Forget the Zippers

The zippers do a lot of work but rarely get any attention.

Trail dust and sand can quickly wear them out.

Each time you clean your Jeep:

• Brush away dirt.
• Wash with mild soap and water.
• Inspect for damaged stitching.

I also like adding zipper pulls, they make removing the windows easier while adding a little personality to your Jeep.

Zipping off window collage

Should You Take a Jeep Soft Top Through a Car Wash?

My recommendation:

No.

Automatic car washes can:

• scratch vinyl windows
• force water inside your Jeep
• damage seams
• shorten the life of your soft top
• expose the fabric to harsh chemicals

Hand washing is always the safest choice.

Protect Your Soft Top from the Sun

One of the biggest enemies of a soft top isn't rain.

It's UV exposure.

If possible:

• Park in a garage.
• Use a quality Jeep cover.
• Apply UV protectant several times each year.

Doing this helps prevent fading and keeps the fabric looking newer longer.

Winter Soft Top Care

Cold weather requires a little extra care.

Never:

• scrape ice from vinyl windows
• fold the top when it's frozen
• force frozen zippers

Instead:

Allow the Jeep to warm up first so the vinyl becomes flexible again.

This simple step can prevent cracked windows.

The Jeep W

Common Mistakes Jeep Owners Make

Avoid these common mistakes:

❌ Using dish soap

❌ Using bleach

❌ Cleaning with paper towels

❌ Pressure washing the seams

❌ Folding the top while dirty

❌ Folding frozen vinyl windows

❌ Ignoring dirty zippers

Most soft top damage happens from improper maintenance not normal use.

Jeep Momma Tip 💜

One habit that's helped me over the years is giving my soft top a quick rinse after dusty trail rides.

Removing dirt before it sits for weeks helps reduce wear and keeps the fabric looking much newer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my Jeep soft top?

I recommend cleaning it about once a month, or after particularly muddy, dusty, or sandy trail rides.

Can I use Dawn dish soap?

I don't recommend it. Dish soap removes protective coatings and can dry out the fabric over time.

Can I pressure wash a Jeep soft top?

No. High-pressure water can damage seams and force water inside the vehicle.

What's the best cleaner for Jeep soft tops?

I've had excellent results with the Bestop Vinyl Care Kit because it's designed specifically for Jeep soft tops and vinyl windows.

How do I keep my Jeep soft top looking new?

Clean it regularly, use UV protectant, avoid automatic car washes, keep the zippers clean, and never fold the top when it's dirty or frozen.

Final Thoughts

A Jeep soft top is a significant investment, and replacing one isn't cheap.

Fortunately, taking care of it doesn't require a lot of time just the right products and a simple maintenance routine.

After years of Jeep ownership, I've found that regular cleaning, proper protection, and a little preventative care help keep my soft top looking great and ready for the next adventure.

My Recommended Jeep Soft Top Products

If you're putting together a Jeep maintenance kit, these are the products I recommend:

• Bestop Vinyl Cleaner Pack
• Vinyl Window Cleaner
• Soft-Bristle Detailing Brush
• Premium Microfiber Towels
• UV Fabric Protectant
• Jeep Cover
• zipper pulls
• Collapsible Bucket
• Spray Bottle
• Soft Wash Mitt

More Jeep Momma Maintenance Guides

• How to Properly Fold Back Your Soft Top  ("The Jeep W")
• Top 5 Cleaning Hacks
• How to Winterize Your Jeep
• Protect Your Jeep from the Winter Elements 
• Jeep Wrangler Vs Car Wash 
• Jeep Wrangler Maintenance Guide

🎥 Watch: My Jeep Zipper Care Guide

🎥 Watch: Soft Top Cleaning Tips.(YouTube)

Written by Tammy "Jeep Momma" Forsyth  - a Jeep Wrangler owner, off-road enthusiast, and content creator who has explored trails across Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and beyond. Through Jeep Momma, she shares firsthand Wrangler ownership experiences, trail guides, DIY modifications, camping setups, and Jeep community stories to help new and experienced Jeep owners get more from their adventures.

👉About Jeep Momma

Jeep Momma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn commissions by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. When you click on and/or make a purchase through a link to an Amazon Affiliate link placed on this website, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Tips to Keep Your Jeep Salt-Free in Winter

The Corrosive Nature of Road Salt

When Old Man Winter shows up, so does one of your Jeep’s biggest enemies: road salt. That white crust on your fenders, undercarriage, and wheels may look harmless, but it’s a slow killer.

As someone who drives and wheels year-round, I’ve seen firsthand how salt + magnesium chloride can eat away at a Jeep’s frame, bolts, brake lines, and even soft tops. In 2025, after dealing with repairs from salt damage, I doubled down on prevention. These are the steps I now take (and recommend to other Jeepers) to fight corrosion before it starts.

Road Salt on Jeep

   

Why Road Salt is So Damaging

Most states use magnesium chloride or sodium chloride (road salt) to melt ice and snow. The problem is:

• Salt is highly corrosive.

• It clings to metal, wiring, and seams.

• Combined with moisture, it accelerates rust dramatically.

👉 Once rust starts, it spreads fast. Prevention is always cheaper than repair.

Road Salt on front of Jeep

My Top Tips to Keep Your Jeep Salt-Free

1. Wash Frequently (Undercarriage Included)

Don’t wait for spring. Wash your Jeep after every snowstorm or salty-road drive.

• Focus on the undercarriage — frame rails, skid plates, suspension arms.

• A power washer is best for blasting salt out of nooks and crannies.

• Don’t forget inside the frame holes (stick the hose in to flush them out).

2. Wax and Re-Wax

Wax (Wax and Re-Wax) creates a protective barrier that makes it harder for salt to stick. Reapply during winter months.

3. Avoid Salt Hotspots

• Puddles: Road salt pools in standing water.

• Heated garages: Keeping your Jeep warm makes salt more active and speeds corrosion. A cold garage is actually safer.

4. Pay Attention to Fender Wells

Salt collects behind inner fender liners. Use extra water pressure on the backside of your wheel wells.

5. Soft Top Protection

• Avoid automatic car washes with brushes — they scratch vinyl windows.

• Touchless washes are safer but may cause leaks.

• Best option: wash your top by hand with Jeep-safe cleaners.

👉 Jeep Wrangler vs an Automatic Car Wash

6. Cold-Weather Jeep Hacks (Beyond Salt)

• Spray vinegar + water on your windshield at night to prevent ice.

• Keep at least half a tank of gas to avoid frozen fuel lines.

• Quiet squeaky wipers with rubbing alcohol on the blades.

• Rub a light oil (like Pam spray) on weather stripping to prevent frozen doors.

• Never idle your Jeep for long warm-ups — it wastes fuel and isn’t good for modern engines.

• Frozen locks? A squirt of alcohol-based hand sanitizer works in a pinch.

Road Salt on soft top window

 Learn More from Jeep Momma

👉 Watch: Tips to Keep Your Jeep Salt-Free  
👉 Also check out:

 Jeep Momma's Jeep Cleaning Hacks 

Top 5 Spots You Must Keep Clean on Your Jeep 

For more essential Jeep Wrangler maintenance tips, visit my Jeep Wrangler Maintenance Guide.

FAQ: Road Salt and Jeep Maintenance

Q: How often should I wash my Jeep in winter?
A: After every major storm or salty-road drive. Weekly at minimum.

Q: Can undercoating help prevent salt damage?
A: Yes. Protective coatings (like Fluid Film or bedliner sprays) add a barrier against rust, but you still need regular washes.

Q: Is it bad to park my Jeep in a heated garage?
A: Yes. The heat keeps salt active and accelerates corrosion. A cold garage is safer.

Q: What’s the best way to clean inside the frame rails?
A: Use a power washer or garden hose with a spray nozzle, insert into the frame holes, and flush out dirt + salt.

Road salt on fenders

Keeping your Jeep salt-free isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the most important parts of winter Jeep ownership. Rust repairs cost thousands; prevention costs a few minutes with a hose.

For me, it’s personal: I’ve seen how quickly road salt can damage a Jeep, and now I treat winter cleaning like trail prep—it’s part of the Jeep lifestyle.

First Time Wheelin' in the Ice & Snow

Like every trip to Rausch Creek, this one was filled with much anticipation and excitement. I was apprehensive and nervous because I was unsure how much snow would be on the trails. 

I had never wheeled in the snow and wasn't sure how that would affect my driving.

Excitement flowed as I knew I would be meeting new friends with a shared love of Jeeps and off-roading. Each time I hit the trails in my Jeep my admiration for the Jeep community grows. It's incredible how complete strangers can transform into Jeep Off-Road buddies in an instant because of a shared passion for Jeeps. 

There's a saying "It's a Jeep thing" that most people don't comprehend unless you have that passion for your Jeep.   

Check out this blog post Snow Driving Tips to help you maneuver in the snow on the trails. 

Rausch Creek Jeep group

During my first Women's Wheeling trip at Rausch Creek Off Road Park, I met fellow Jeeper who was preparing to install the same Front Bumper as mine. 

For more on My Front Bumper Install take a look at this post. 

Engaging in a lively conversation for about five minutes, we immediately connected and we exchanged email addresses. Little did I know that those five minutes would foster a lasting wheeling camaraderie.

Exploring the Trails at Rausch Creek

I ventured out to meet my newfound friend and a few others to explore the trails at Rausch Creek during my first snow wheeling adventure. It marked the maiden voyage of my Rubicon on snowy and icy terrains, a thrilling first-time off-roading experience in such conditions.

Jeep Momma selfie with front grille

Navigating Snow and Ice

Growing up in Minnesota and North Dakota, I've had my fair share of driving through snow and ice. However, maneuvering off-road amidst these conditions presents an entirely different challenge. Driving on paved roads full of snow is a much different than a trail filled with rocks and trees lining the path. 

Jeeps on snowy trails

Snowy Terrain: A Surprising Advantage

Surprisingly, crawling over rocks seemed more manageable with the snow. The snow compacted into the crevices, providing a smoother drive. While it eased the journey, Jeepers like us thrive on the challenge of rocky terrains. 

snowy trail at Rausch Creek

Challenges of Ice

However, this trip presented a new challenge: slick, slippery ice. Firstly, we had to remain vigilant for icy patches to avoid spinning out of control. Despite my attentiveness, my tires spun several times, highlighting the treacherous nature of the icy terrain. Secondly, while navigating the rocks, my Jeep's rear end would occasionally fishtail, disrupting my intended course and adding a thrilling twist to the adventure.

Jeep Momma selfie

Engaging Axle Locks

Reflecting on the journey, I realized that I had overlooked a crucial aspect: engaging my axle locks by pressing that magical button. This probably wasn't a great time to use the axle locks for the first time though. 

Another off-roading skill to I need learn, but during a time when I can be in a more controlled environment so I can experiment. It's a lesson learned, signaling my anticipation for another exhilarating trip back to Rausch Creek in the near future. The more I tackle the trails the more comfortable I will be to know when to use the axle lock button and when my Jeep will get me through with out it.  

For more of Jeep Momma's off-road journey check out my Adventures page.