Building an Unlimited (Lj) [Archive]

TexasTJ

07-29-2009, 10:18 PM

So right now I own a 1998 Tj and a 07 2 door Jk. The TJ was built for rocks and the Jk is a street jeep. Both are on 35's go figure.

I will soon have the Jk payed off and am thinking of then selling both jeeps and buying a 06 LJ rubicon. This I would build as an Expedition jeep. This was first my idea with the Jk, but there is really just not enough room for gear for the weekend a Golden Retriever and 2 people in it.

I was thinking of putting it on a 3.5" RE short arm with 35 pro comp extreme AT's. I would leave in the 4.11 gears for high way driving and with the 4 to 1 Transfer case It would handle trail alright as well. From there bumper and a winch will be easy and the little jeep would be ready to go.

Im just looking a some feed back on this little plain and maybe a little help in the cooking.

thanks

Nate

Metcalf

07-29-2009, 10:33 PM

I was thinking pretty hard about building an unlimited....

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=11912

If your going to build one from scratch I would think heavily about using the AEV hi-line kit. It simplifies SOOOOO much stuff. You can run 35s with 1-2" of lift and 37s with 3" of lift if its tuned correctly.

The gearing will be OK with 35s, but you will most likely want to upgrade at some point.

Add a Tummy tucker for sure. That fixes one of the tragic flaws of the TJ.

Keep it clean, simple, light, don't bolt a ton of stuff on the back, keep it low, don't build a flex monster, travel quality vs travel quantity.

http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p60/Metcalfphoto/Unlimited%20Project/Mopar-2007-Jeep-Dodge-12.jpg

Good luck on your project!

Scott Brady

07-29-2009, 10:52 PM

These trucks are impressive, right out of the box. Good advise from Metcalf.

The AEV and OME parts are all reliable and reasonable. I would limit the modifications to the truck and focus on the loading system, communications, recovery solutions (winch, etc.) and a set of good bumpers.

I look forward to following your progress.

ddog45

07-30-2009, 12:47 AM

You may want to check in with TheMike he is talking about parting with his 06 rubicon that is built and ready to go anywhere. If you cant get in touch with him pm me and I will get you his personal email.
I have an 05 Lj with ome lift and rokmen goodies that is sweet. Im starting to look at golen engines to add a little more omph while pulling my adventure trailer.

TexasTJ

07-30-2009, 02:43 AM

thanks for the info. I like the idea of the OME stuff all thought im not a huge fan of the AEV high hood. its all good to think about.

RedRocker

07-30-2009, 11:47 AM

Well, you've got your rock crawlers and you've got expedition vehicles. I just did what you're talking about, 06 LJ from CJ rock crawler. I've had to fight my natural instincts to beef it up beyond recognition. They're very capable bone stock, Tummy Tuck and a few inches of lift and you're ready to go. I've got a 1.25 body lift, 2.5 OME lift, 33's, bought it from a friend that way and I'm not going to screw with it cept for a TT. I'm sticking with 33's since I've gone everywhere my friends with 35's have gone, but I may go to 5.13's at some point. 4.10's and 35's will suck really hard on the highway because 33's and 4.10's do. My goal is to keep the weight down, so no swing out tire carrier, no tons of armor plating, no Dana 60's and 6 inch lifts. JMHO.
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u244/Red-Rocker/Rubi-2.jpg

TexasTJ

07-30-2009, 02:13 PM

really I have the 4.11 and 35 on my JK and have no problem holding 70 with the Cruse on in the hill country. Plus It gets 17 city 19 hwy. That the main reason I have for sticking to stock gears. I have kind of decided that 33 10.50 are the way to go on this jeep Im just so use to 35's on everything. I was only thinking of a rear tire carrier so I could get on with the gas tank holders to open up the range, but may be the safari tank from GenRight is the way to get that. thinks for the input.

Root Moose

07-30-2009, 02:20 PM

...all thought im not a huge fan of the AEV high hood.

Just curious what you don't like about it. Is it the look? Price?

I'm on the fence about it. Like the look but...

TexasTJ

07-30-2009, 02:44 PM

well I don't want to get in to a flame war on over this, But Mostly its the look. I think its a cool idea and I know some people who have made there own using there stock finders, hoods and some creative cutting. Really what gets me is that AEV did not carry the seam over from the Tj tub. that there makes it look not original to me. Im i big body purest on my jeeps I don't flat finder or comp corner and that little seam is enough to make the AEV high finders look after market. All there stuff looks so good and OME that I have always found it odd that they didn't include a seam there. So there you go Im am a Jeep dork what can I say.:smiley_drive:

Root Moose

07-30-2009, 02:54 PM

Hey no worries. I don't think this is the type of board that flames for differing opinions.

Metcalf

07-30-2009, 03:11 PM

Tig weld the seam and make it flat :)

They did use the hood line/cowl seam which carries the lines over pretty well.

In all reality most people don't even notice the body kit. Have you seen one in person yet? I tell ya...they are trick. If your going to run anything over narrow 33s, I think its just about the only way to go. I know I will get flamed for that, but I think its that good of a product and option. Keeping the TJ/LJ suspension at 2-3" of lift with short arms is just about the magic spot. Long arm kits add way too much weight and complexity in my opinion.

I tend to promote the 'keep it low, light, simple, and clean' approach to building things. I'm NOT saying that you have to keep it stock by any means....I daily drive a full size truck with 39s and no lift :)

Now if only I can get a turbo diesel in an LJ! I do have a pretty darn good option for a turbo diesel swap that I worked out a year or two ago. It would work well with the 6spd manual transmission, stock 4.10s, and 37s. An atlas 4spd would be ideal, but the stock rubicon 4spd case would be just fine for most peoples needs. Dang, I really need to win the lottery and build all the things I have planned out over the years!

TexasTJ

07-30-2009, 03:34 PM

Dang, I really need to win the lottery and build all the things I have planned out over the years!

LOL I know what you mean Im a School Teacher.

Im really looking at the Full Traction or Tera Flex 3" economy kit. Any word on using stock control arms on a lifted Lj? I know that on a Tj the adjustable are a must. bit it seam on the Lj you could get away with stock of at least fixed control arms.

BIGdaddy

07-30-2009, 03:42 PM

Hey no worries. I don't think this is the type of board that flames for differing opinions.

your opinions are lame and you must leave.

:elkgrin:

nwoods

07-30-2009, 03:44 PM

Nice choice in the LJ....but I don't understand. You stated that you can't fit the stuff you need in the JK (2 people plus a big dog), not sure the LJ will be that much better. I made a platform (http://nwoods.smugmug.com/gallery/7942917_VGLek#515498625_9Czwj) in the rear of our LJ that really provided a lot of room for stuff, but I need that room for stuff! Not sure where I'd put a dog.

Progress photo (before carpet and tie-down rails)
http://nwoods.smugmug.com/photos/515499164_wGydF-L.jpg

Platform with rear seat installed (its a two piece modular platform)
http://nwoods.smugmug.com/photos/515936750_PPVP3-L.jpg

Loaded for a trip to the Rubicon
http://www.nextstepdesigns.com/images/jeep/Rubicon2009/Rubicon-Prep-04-1024.jpg

http://www.nextstepdesigns.com/images/jeep/Rubicon2009/Rubicon-Prep-01-1024.jpg

SeaRubi

07-30-2009, 03:52 PM

JK unlimited, rear ARB or rubi locker, 33's, and an Atlas? I had an 06' LJ rubi and am liking my new JK X Unlimited a surprisingly large amount better. No need for a tummy tuck - better suspension and frame, and I think in the long run this little V6 will be lower maintenance. it also gets much better gas mileage than the rubi ever did and I can hear myself think on the highway.

edit: forgot a main point of my post :) the JK Unlimited has significantly more cargo space. Heading out with 3 people and a dog for a long weekend of camping is possible. My 8yr old daughter on the 40% seat upright, and our 70lb collie dog beside her on the split 60% seat folded down leaves the whole cargo area in back available for gear.

fwiw - food for thought!

cheers
-ike

Metcalf

07-30-2009, 03:59 PM

That's about the perfect load out for a jeep. I like keeping the cargo below the tub rails as much as possible. Heavy items should go forward as much as possible. If needed light bulky items like sleeping bags and pads can be strapped to the rear roll bar horizontal sections. This also keeps them high and dry...nothing worse than a wet sleeping bag.

Somewhere I have a design for a rear storage system for a long wheelbase jeep that allowed for lockable rear storage and seating for two, yet transforms to full rear storage with a sleeping platform.

RedRocker

07-30-2009, 04:00 PM

TexasTJ

07-30-2009, 04:10 PM

JK unlimited,
I just can't bank roll a Jk Unlimited (school teacher). The Lj will be a better fit for me I believe. Plus having a Jk and a Tj right now I find myself liking the Tj a little better. I think the JK and the JK unlimited are great jeeps I just like the styling and abilities of the TJ/LJ's better.

That's great mileage, are you correcting for speedo error?

That's after the AEV ProCal Module.

I have only had the jeep in 4 wheel on the Beach down at Pins and it did fine there (don't know the 4x4 MPG). I have the 6 speed and that running in 6th gear at 70 on I 35.

BIGdaddy

07-30-2009, 04:19 PM

my LJ fit my family of four and gear needed for extended camping, just fine. I built a cheap rear shelf and used a congo cage for gear up top. (Congo cage is rated for hundreds and hundreds of pounds.)

I added a cheap $70 winch plate, $250.00 harbor freight winch, Rockmen mercenary sliders, and was about to do a tummy tuck, when it was stolen.

(good thing for our finances, but it still sucked.)

it was very capable even on stock 30's and being a regular wrangler, not an unlimited. I usually averaged 18mpg overall.

here's a short vid, that shows some offroading and my kids in the back:

http://www.youtube.com/user/kodiak1232003

Root Moose

07-30-2009, 05:06 PM

your opinions are lame and you must leave.

:elkgrin:

Watch it!

Or I'll fly down there and make you drink beer!

:elkgrin:

Backwoods Rambler

07-30-2009, 06:19 PM

my LJ fit my family of four ............it was very capable even on stock 30's and being a regular wrangler, not an unlimited. .......[/url]

I thought an LJ was an Unlimited ??

BIGdaddy

07-30-2009, 06:33 PM

I thought an LJ was an Unlimited ??

haha, sorry I meant rubicon...derrr...:victory:

TexasTJ

07-30-2009, 06:33 PM

RedRocker

07-30-2009, 07:01 PM

They're around, but there never seemed to be any around DFW when I was looking. I bought mine from a friend in Colorado sight unseen, he drove it down and it was set up just like I wanted.

jamm

07-31-2009, 12:46 AM

So after today it looks like Im going to go with a Tera Flex 3" lift and 255/85R16's (want to keep the stock wheels) Stock front bumper trimmed with a winch and storage. Now I just have to get the Tj up on E bay. How hard at Unlimited Rubicons to find? I have not seen many on E bay.

I have a LJ Rubicon that I'm putting 255 KM2s on the stock Moabs this weekend with a 3" lift. I did a lot of forum searchs to see which lift would work best with that tire size and decided to go with a miss matched kit. AEV progressive coils, JKS control arms and track bars, and Rancho shocks. This should allow for a softer rider due to most 255s having an (E) load rating.

Now it the time to sell the TJ to get the most $, but I'd wait til the summer time buyers are done and pick a LJ up in the fall. Best of Luck.

TexasTJ

07-31-2009, 07:18 PM

I've got a 1.25 body lift, 2.5 OME lift, 33's,
http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u244/Red-Rocker/Rubi-2.jpg

RedRocker do you know which OME coils you have? Can you mix and match theres? ie heavy coil rate in back midium in the front?

RedRocker

07-31-2009, 08:16 PM

Not sure, I'm pretty sure you can mix them though.

BIGdaddy

07-31-2009, 08:20 PM

RedRocker do you know which OME coils you have? Can you mix and match theres? ie heavy coil rate in back midium in the front?

sure. you'll have to do some calculating for proper stance, but I've heard of lots of applications, especially expo trucks with lots of gear permanantly in the back, that work very well that way.

not sure if shock valving would work the same, but probably. I think there is a shop that has a put-together OME kit that they sell that is perfect for an LJ carrying "stuff". I want to say DPG, or Rokmen, but I'm not sure those are right.

NOMADIC_LJ

07-31-2009, 08:27 PM

Redrocker's LJ looks just like my Jeep.

LOVE my LJ. Great platform for a trail/exploration rig

http://tpiwwp.com/out.php/i563_IMG0730.jpg

roadkill

08-01-2009, 01:24 AM

sure. you'll have to do some calculating for proper stance, but I've heard of lots of applications, especially expo trucks with lots of gear permanantly in the back, that work very well that way.

not sure if shock valving would work the same, but probably. I think there is a shop that has a put-together OME kit that they sell that is perfect for an LJ carrying "stuff". I want to say DPG, or Rokmen, but I'm not sure those are right.

your talking about DPG, http://www.dpgoff-road.com/ . talk to Dirk, he's an OME Jeep expert and will get you set up right. I purchased my OME lift from him for my LJ rubi. running ZJ coils up front and LJ hd coils in rear.

maximumrob

08-01-2009, 01:56 AM

So after today it looks like Im going to go with a Tera Flex 3" lift and 255/85R16's (want to keep the stock wheels) Stock front bumper trimmed with a winch and storage. Now I just have to get the Tj up on E bay. How hard at Unlimited Rubicons to find? I have not seen many on E bay.

You just described my build. 255 BFG Muds, ProComp 2.5" lift with pucks up front, adjustable shocks, Teraflex belly-up, 1" body lift, Woody shaft, swaybar discos, and JKS arms all around. Left the wheels and bumpers stock to keep it light and added some 130-watt pencil beams on the front bumper. It really goes on the trail and still fits in the parking garage at work.

Don't forget to swap out the bulbs in the stock foglights for 100-watters and get rid of that thing in front of the bulb inside the housing. Also do the foglight mod so you can run high beams and fogs at the same time.

SeaRubi

08-01-2009, 04:02 PM

I just can't bank roll a Jk Unlimited (school teacher). The Lj will be a better fit for me I believe. Plus having a Jk and a Tj right now I find myself liking the Tj a little better. I think the JK and the JK unlimited are great jeeps I just like the styling and abilities of the TJ/LJ's better.

Totally understand. I paid more my X actually than I did for my Rubi. The JK's were flying off the lot, and in image conscious Seattle they had no reason to ease up on the price.

TexasTJ

08-01-2009, 04:17 PM

So I am months ahead of the game right now, but I want to have all the gear I'm going to use picked out when I finally get my LJ. Maybe even all in the garage. Im reading on tires right now and like the 255/85R16 that Beowulf has on his jeep, but can only find it in a mud tire. what other options are the in a close to 33/10'ish tire. Also dose anyone have the Gen Right Safari gas tank? I was wondering about the crossmember you have to cut out and what its there for? I really like the tank but I'm not to sure about cutting on the frame.

SeaRubi

08-01-2009, 04:20 PM

with 15" rims you can get BFG All terrains in 33X10.5

price isn't bad, either, at $150/tire.

cheers
-ike

TexasTJ

08-01-2009, 04:30 PM

I like the idea of the BFG at (first tires i had on my TJ), but I'm looking to travel in south america some and I've read allot about having 16 in wheels because the tires are more available out of the states. I have also looked at getting some stock steel 16" wheels form a Kj. I have always liked steel better for the trail because you can fix it with a hammer. I'm just not sure if I want the extra weight on this jeep. I will not be running "hardcore" trails so to speak and more than likely will not run in to the same problems with wheel you find in rockcrawling.

SeaRubi

08-01-2009, 04:36 PM

I would not run an A/T tire then if you're looking into that kind of travel. The KM2 seems like an obvious choice in 255/85 - standard BFG M/T's aren't really bad, either, IMO.

i'm not in favor of steel wheels in general, unless for certain you can verify they are hub-centric wheels and not lug centric.

the factory alloys on my LJ Rubi were tough as hell. So are the 17's on my X, for that matter. I would hesitate to change them. Lots of people have this romanticized idea of themselves beating a rim back into the shape on the side of the road, but in reality it seems that the only wheel problems I ever hear about are people running steel rims.

my .02 :coffeedrink:

deadbeat son

08-02-2009, 02:36 AM

...like the 255/85R16 that Beowulf has on his jeep, but can only find it in a mud tire...

You can get the Cooper Discoverer ST (http://www.coopertires.com/html/products/tires_lighttruck.aspx?page=discoverer_st) in a 255/85-16. It's an aggressive AT, but not a full-on MT.

toyota_jon

08-02-2009, 05:35 AM

You can get the Cooper Discoverer ST (http://www.coopertires.com/html/products/tires_lighttruck.aspx?page=discoverer_st) in a 255/85-16. It's an aggressive AT, but not a full-on MT.

exactly, although i don't personally have them they look like a good cross, and havn't heard many complaints.

Redline

08-02-2009, 03:17 PM

x2 for DPG. It's been a couple years but I used them/Dirk when I did my LJ. Liked them/their help and liked the ZJ/LJ OME set-up.

your talking about DPG, http://www.dpgoff-road.com/ . talk to Dirk, he's an OME Jeep expert and will get you set up right. I purchased my OME lift from him for my LJ rubi. running ZJ coils up front and LJ hd coils in rear.

Redline

08-02-2009, 03:19 PM

Read in the General Mods section. There is a thread on this specific tire tread/size.

exactly, although i don't personally have them they look like a good cross, and havn't heard many complaints.

TexasTJ

08-02-2009, 03:27 PM

Cool thanks guys I found that Toyo makes them open country MT in a 255/85R16 too so Now I have three to look at.

TexasTJ

08-05-2009, 04:23 AM

anyone know if you need to run wheel spacers with the 255/85 on the stock Moab's?

Redline

08-05-2009, 05:44 AM

No you don't. I ran 255/85 on my '05 Rubicon Unlimited on the stock wheels and about 3-inches of lift.

anyone know if you need to run wheel spacers with the 255/85 on the stock Moab's?

maximumrob

08-05-2009, 12:24 PM

anyone know if you need to run wheel spacers with the 255/85 on the stock Moab's?

I run 255's and no spacers. Like the gentlemen wrote, you don't have to run spacers, but I get a good rub on the passenger side LCA when cranked all the way to the right. It doesn't seem to hurt anything and I'm never at full lock at speed, so the thump-thump-thump of the lugs don't bother me much...I just back off the wheel a little bit.

Other than that, no clearance issues at all.

Metcalf

08-05-2009, 02:05 PM

You can install a bent lower link in front to allow full lock with 255s. I think Rusty's even makes a set now......

TexasTJ

08-07-2009, 09:37 PM

maximumrob

08-07-2009, 10:01 PM

Damm I need to stop looking at jeeps will I can by there is one on ebay right now ready to go someone needs to snap it up!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2006-Jeep-Wrangler-Unlimited-Ru_W0QQitemZ280382440624QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Cars _Trucks?hash=item41481884b0&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245#ht_12366wt_1167

Its set up just like I want! Just needs the Gen Right tank!

Holy smoke. I'm driving an '05 that's set up almost exactly like that with 45k on the clock. I'll sell it to you for $18.5k and save you $500. I'm even closer to you than Oregon! :)