Theodore Roosevelt

"Cars aren't just machines. They're freedom, memory, and a little bit of grease under your fingernails."

I'm Theodore Roosevelt—though my friends just call me "Ted" (and no, I'm not related to the president, though I do share his love for adventure). I grew up in Detroit in the 1970s, back when the city was still the heart of the American auto industry. My first love was a rusted-out 1967 Mustang my father and I rebuilt in our garage when I was fifteen. That project taught me that cars have souls. After spending twenty years as a mechanic and another ten writing for magazines, I started this blog to help everyday drivers and weekend wrenchers feel confident under the hood. Whether you're restoring a classic or just trying to keep your daily driver alive for one more winter, I'm here to help you get there.

1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee: How to Put It in 4-Wheel Drive

October 21, 2026 by Theodore Roosevelt

If you are trying to figure out how to put a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee in 4-wheel drive, the first thing you need to know is which 4WD system your Jeep has. That matters because not every 1996 Grand Cherokee uses the same transfer case. A Jeep with Selec-Trac works differently from one with Quadra-Trac. … Read more

Best Jeep Husky Liner Floor Mats: Top Picks for All-Weather Protection

October 21, 2026 by Theodore Roosevelt

Mud, wet boots, sand, road salt, and spilled drinks can make a Jeep’s carpet look rough surprisingly fast. If you use your Jeep for daily driving, road trips, camping, or weekend trails, a good set of floor liners can save you plenty of cleanup later. Husky Liners is a popular choice because its WeatherBeater liners … Read more

BOSCH BE1324H Blue Ceramic Brake Pads: Top Performance

October 21, 2026 by Theodore Roosevelt

If you’re looking for reliable stopping power without the dust mess, the BOSCH BE1324H Blue Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set with hardware is a name that keeps…

How To Put a 2016 Jeep Wrangler in 4 Wheel Drive

October 20, 2026 by Theodore Roosevelt

If you need more traction from your 2016 Jeep Wrangler, putting it into four-wheel drive is simple once you understand the transfer case lever. For normal slippery conditions, move the transfer case lever from 2H to 4H. You can make this shift while the Jeep is stopped or moving. For 4L, slow to about 2–3 … Read more

Best Jeep Wrangler Tire Tread Floor Mats for All-Weather Protection

October 20, 2026 by Theodore Roosevelt

Mud, rain, road salt, sand, and wet boots can make a Jeep Wrangler’s carpet look rough surprisingly fast. Standard carpet mats may work for normal commuting, but Wrangler owners who spend time outdoors often need something tougher. That is where Jeep Wrangler tire tread floor mats make sense. Their aggressive grooves do more than give … Read more