Unlimited wrangler (LJ) Daily driver/expedition vehicle

[kodiak1232003]

hey all,
I'm freakin' stoked. just picked up my dream vehicle!!

Here you go....visiting Julian for some pie and camping.

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/newjeep1stTrip053.jpg

and yes thats a grocery next to my grocery getter...lol...:safari-rig:


its a 2004 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4x4...auto, D44 rear/D30 front.

[kodiak1232003]

here's a short vid of us wheelin' up in
Corral canyon (east san diego):sombrero:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3k87rqQEHg


my wife has a real problem with heat so she is usually in the rig driving with me spotting..lol..which is just fine with me, as she's a smokin' driver.

[kodiak1232003]

trips planned

1. big bear
2. big sur
3. seattle/mt. ranier area
4. British columbia
5. In Our Dreams...alaska, niagra falls,
virginia wheeling/washington, d.c. sightseeing


mods planned

1. cobra CB/antenna mountDONE!~:)
2. simple/strong front winch bumper (tow points, winch mount, light mount, plate steel-not the "baja type")
3. rear tire/can carrier/storage
4. rock sliders, steering guard, engine skid
5. BFG AT's in the 31"-32" flavor
6. hi lift mount DONE!~:)
7. rear door holder-opener. :)
8..etc..

[tjbliley]

You live my dream and I will live some of yours.(At least for a little while) I am from VA and run around DC quite a bit. I would love to do some or your Weekend Wheeling just once. A buddy of mine's Sister-in-law and neice just moved here from Vegas and to see her dauhgters face when we wheeled in the Blue Ridge Mountains was better than Christmas(Or UPS Delivery). She had never been wheeling where there were so many trees and green stuff in her life. Granted she is only 16 but that was still great to see. Looks like you have a good plan for your ride and I hope to either see you on my trails or yours soon.

[rmarz]

Kodiak,
Very cool! Congratulations. I have a 05 Rubicon LJ and am getting it geared for a drive to Alaska in 2008. I look forward to seeing your ride take shape with mods.

[XXXpedition]

cool, man!!!

[maximumrob]

Nice rig. Don't forget to do a 1" body lift so you can get a belly-up skid on that bad boy. If you add a decent skidplate, rear locker, and some mud treads, you'll be unstoppable on anything less than gnarly trails.

The mud tires aren't as loud as you think if you keep them balanced. The wife and I drove my Rubicon with 31" MTR's from Dallas to Ouray (19 hrs) and determined the soft top was the reason for our temporary deafness, not the mud tires. ;)

I'll be going to 255/85-16 BFG MT's next, as they're nearly an all-terrain since the tread is so tight compared to MTR's and other, meatier mud treads.

[kodiak1232003]

Nice rig. Don't forget to do a 1" body lift so you can get a belly-up skid on that bad boy. If you add a decent skidplate, rear locker, and some mud treads, you'll be unstoppable on anything less than gnarly trails.

The mud tires aren't as loud as you think if you keep them balanced. The wife and I drove my Rubicon with 31" MTR's from Dallas to Ouray (19 hrs) and determined the soft top was the reason for our temporary deafness, not the mud tires. ;)

I'll be going to 255/85-16 BFG MT's next, as they're nearly an all-terrain since the tread is so tight compared to MTR's and other, meatier mud treads.


great info, thanks!

i'll put a body lift on the list.... any mfgr. recommendations?

also for the belly-up..can i just google that?


muds are definitely on the list, though my wife likes the bfg AT's with a passion...marriage is all about compromise..ahaha. (i'm just happy she likes to wheel.:D...)

[Colorado Ron]

Im happy for you, but I just have to say this.....

Do you really need to cuss to express your happiness? Ive always thought of this as a family server and my kids often read over my shoulders and are excited to see all the cool pics here, so if you dont mind, could you please refrain. Thanks

[4Rescue]

That is a nice platform to start on, I really think they missed the ball by not offering a LWB 2dr this time around. I relaize that they (Jeep) are selling the new 4dr faster than they can make the things, but I think the the LJ was the perfect wheelbase for the majority of wheeling terrain. Not to mention that IMO the new JK is butt ugly and the decision to dump the I6 for a V-6 was absurd (I don't know if I will ever forgive Jeep for this). The only way I think Jeep will win ME back is if the build the JT and put the CRD diesel in it. WHo knows maybe they'll come to their sences and make another LJ like rig.

Cheers

Dave

[4Rescue]

Im happy for you, but I just have to say this.....

Do you really need to cuss to express your happiness? Ive always thought of this as a family server and my kids often read over my shoulders and are excited to see all the cool pics here, so if you dont mind, could you please refrain. Thanks
Thanks mom... Sometimes you're just so happy some expletives come out. It's just a word, it's not like he clubbed a bunch of baby seals.

[RunninRubicon]

Teraflex makes a very good belly-up pan. $350. Gives you about 2 more inches under your belly/transfer case. Requires a CV-driveshaft. Teraflex offers these too. $350 also. Both are available via Quadratec or 4WD.com. Some manufacturers recommend a 1" body lift if you run an automatic tranny.
If you already have a 4" lift, this is the equivelent of running a 6" but using 33" tires instead. Stock lift can use the same and run your stock tires. But will give you the belly clearance of a 2" lift. Nice addition-keep your center of gravity low and your rig more stable. Unlimited's and four door JK are well served by this modification as they tend to drag their belly on most everything in stock format. In a "normal" Wrangler of standard length really shine with this mod and it will pay in dividends on every challenging trail.
* the Rubicon models have their locker compressors mounted on the belly pan.
These will require an simple mode to keep them secured.

[kodiak1232003]

Thanks mom... Sometimes you're just so happy some expletives come out. It's just a word, it's not like he clubbed a bunch of baby seals.


no, no... its o.k. :)


edited for the young bucks...


:camping:

[kodiak1232003]

Teraflex makes a very good belly-up pan. $350. Gives you about 2 more inches under your belly/transfer case. Requires a CV-driveshaft. Teraflex offers these too. $350 also. Both are available via Quadratec or 4WD.com. Some manufacturers recommend a 1" body lift if you run an automatic tranny.
If you already have a 4" lift, this is the equivelent of running a 6" but using 33" tires instead. Stock lift can use the same and run your stock tires. But will give you the belly clearance of a 2" lift. Nice addition-keep your center of gravity low and your rig more stable. Unlimited's and four door JK are well served by this modification as they tend to drag their belly on most everything in stock format. In a "normal" Wrangler of standard length really shine with this mod and it will pay in dividends on every challenging trail.
* the Rubicon models have their locker compressors mounted on the belly pan.
These will require an simple mode to keep them secured.


great, thanks...


i did some research and i like clayton offroads belly skid, cuz apparently no mods are needed. ?

its not as flat/tucked, but i'm only going to put on an OME lift, and mebbe, mebbe a small body lift on.

[Andrew Walcker]

no, no... its o.k. :)


edited for the young bucks...


:camping:

Way cool attitude! Congrats on your Unlimited, one of my favorite vehicles!

[kodiak1232003]

Kodiak,
Very cool! Congratulations. I have a 05 Rubicon LJ and am getting it geared for a drive to Alaska in 2008. I look forward to seeing your ride take shape with mods.


thanks!

what all are you doing to yours for the trip?

[JPFreek1]

Very awesome!! Congratulations to you as that is a great looking rig and your trip plans are going to be a blast!

[rmarz]

thanks!

what all are you doing to yours for the trip?


Kodiak,
I am doing a lot of ‘un-doing’ it seems. Plan A for my Jeep was to make a fun ride for the family to go over the Rubicon with. We did that four times and now I am looking into making it more road trip friendly. Most of my first mods were for rock related driving: Long arm lift, gears and axles etc.

Current plans for the 08 AK trip include: smaller narrower tires (33’s) as I now have 35’s. Possibly manual hubs in front, I am looking into air bags to level out the Jeep with a trailer. Interior items such as more lighting, electrical outlets, storage for gear. Maybe a larger gas tank, but that seems less likely due to the suspension system I choose (Full Traction). It is kind of an endless project for me and the date of departure gets closer and closer.

[Colorado Ron]

Thanks mom... Sometimes you're just so happy some expletives come out. It's just a word, it's not like he clubbed a bunch of baby seals.


Its great to see the original poster has alot better attitude than you have about this. I thought I posted it as nicely as I could figure a way to type it. Obviously you dont have kids or you might see things different.

Kodiak--Thanks very much for respecting others on the site. VERY cool attitude! Members like you is what makes this such a great site! Welcome and enjoy the ride!

[Colorado Ron]

Kodiak,

Also if your interested, heres my crack at building a Jeep. Built in under a week, but sold it to find a bigger rig. Wheeled awsome!
http://www.offroad-adventure-travel.com/my-jeep-wrangler.html

http://www.offroad-adventure-travel.com/images/Buena-Vista-2006-1.jpg

[maximumrob]

great, thanks...


i did some research and i like clayton offroads belly skid, cuz apparently no mods are needed. ?

its not as flat/tucked, but i'm only going to put on an OME lift, and mebbe, mebbe a small body lift on.

My mods:
-Performance Accessories 1" body lift
-Teraflex Belly-up w/ locker relocation
-1" MML (no need to upgrade driveshaft, straightens out driveline after body lift and belly-up)
-Currie AntiRock swaybar
-Just bought a 2" ProComp kit with the adjustable shocks...may install it this weekend (should give me another 1" of height). Also picked up 3/4" coil spring spacers for the front to level 'er out.
Will get the 33's once I burn down the stock MTR's.

All these mods gets my belly almost 6" higher than stock without raising the vehicle very high. Total investment is less than $1,500 and I didn't screw with Jeep's engineering much at all!

Enjoy, sir!

[kodiak1232003]

well, i can say right now, that this truck won't be lifted enought to need cv driveshafts, motor mount lifts, etc.

limits me to about 2-3" suspension and 1" body.

easy to replace parts are like rule #1 on an Expedition vehicle, which i'm intent on creating with this vehicle.





:)

[Beowulf]

I am running 255s on:


OME ZJ/LJ springs
JKS Upper and lower Control arms
Nth degree Tummy Tuck
Double Cardan Shaft (preemptive strict to avoid vibes)
JKS Body lift.

Rides great. Rides even better with a little cargo. As sit it sits in these pitures it is fully loaded for week long trip to the San Juans.

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb153/tcmault/IMGP0097.jpg
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb153/tcmault/IMGP0096.jpg
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb153/tcmault/IMGP0100.jpg

[kodiak1232003]

I am running 255s on:


OME ZJ/LJ springs
JKS Upper and lower Control arms
Nth degree Tummy Tuck
Double Cardan Shaft (preemptive strict to advoid vibes)
JKS Body lift.

Rides great. Rides even better with a little cargo. As sit it sits in these pitures it is fully loaded for week long trip to the San Juans.




see, that is exactly the level that i think i'll stop at...VERY NICE!...it looks very capable without being much out of original specs at all.

what do 255's compute to? 31's? 32's? i'll have to go see.

what brand are your rock sliders? i'm in the market...

[Beowulf]

255/85R16's by BFG measure 33.2" X 10". The rocker guard is from AEV. So far this setup has been a great daily driver and it trail prowess has exceed all my needs so far.

[calamaridog]

Brian,

Nice Jeep! I do my grocery shopping at Jacks Grocery in the first picture when I'm not in Vegas. I also spend quite a bit of time next door in Mom's Pie Shop:D

How was Corral Canyon? I haven't been there since the fire a few years ago.

[kodiak1232003]

update:)


NEW MODS....

1. Installed handheld (hardmount) Cobra CB radio
2. Installed Firestick Antenna on custom grill mount.
3. Installed ToughStuffProducts Hi-Lift Hood mount.

Pics Soon...:)

[RunninRubicon]

Your thoughts on keeping things close to stock are sound. You've done a good job of thinking your way through your modifications. Your choice of tire size is wise. The 33x12.50 shows more tire surface to the wind thus a poorer MPG number. This size exempts you from wider fender flares which savings on one more expense many of us stepped across. Unless your in alot of deep mud or sand you may never need the wider tire.

Cute mud flaps-are they required in Colorado? Is there a tire carrier in your future? I split/cracked a tail-gate on a YJ carrying that large tire in the stock location...may be something to consider though. Suppose you have heard this one before.

Nice, very nice. :arabia:

[Beowulf]

The mud flaps are there just to help keep mud and the winter Mag Chlor from being flung to far up the doors from the front tires. They work ok, but not great. Much better than nothing. The rears just seem to complete the look. No laws in CO that I know of.

Yes, a tire carrier is in my near future. I will be using the Shrockworks rear. This one was picked because it has an ultra low profile off the rear and has the wings that come up under the tub toward the rear tires. Makes it nice and easy to slide off of rocks without damaging the rear corners.

Unfortunately this was put on the back burner because I just bought a 30gal Safari tank and skid from Genright.

[kodiak1232003]

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/IMGP0027.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/IMGP0032.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/IMGP0031.jpg

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/IMGP0034.jpg

[86cj]

kodiak 1232003,

I have a 04' LJ and have many of the same things in mind. I use mine for summer DD and long trips camping.
I run 3" BDS springs (air lift bags in rr) w/ JKS arms and use their 1.25" BL ,1" MML combo. It clears 285-75-16 MT/Rs on AEV wheels easily with no vibes on the stock shaft. I also ran 33x10.50x15 BFG A/t's on stock rims with a BB and the BL,MML combo for a couple thousand miles.
The LJ works great, I drove 1700 miles to MOAB and scared my self with its abilities and it's not locked yet. I went 849 miles the first day in a softtop without falling out the door when we stopped, that to me is its biggest accomplishment, but I have done 500 miles in our CJ so Im easily impressed.

I think your (don't go big) plan is a great one and easily accomplished.
If you put the MML on at the same time as your BL it actually makes engine and body go up 1" together and makes for a great combo and easy install. (if you do a OME lift and a tummy tuck you will need the help with vibes a MML provides). I get a little vibe if I am empty w/ no top and have to much air in my bags .

I also recommend looking at the 33x10.50-15 BFG A/T or M/T tires on your stock wheels. My LJ loved the B load range lightweight tires compared to my E load range MT/R's. The ride, power, handling, steering kickback, MPG, braking are all very good with that size tire. The sidewalls really took the horrible road conditions here and soaked them up nicely. Discount tire stocks them here, the 33x9.50-15 is special order. The 10.50" width will also clear your coil buckets on the rear springs, a wider tire needs spacers or wheels with more B/S for clearance. (some people get by with a 32x11.50 on stock wheels).

The load range is a C not B....My bad....I can tell you their alot easier to put on the rear tire carrier than my other tires and wheels.....

Good luck with your build up..............



Hey Beowulf,

Great setup looks good...I am still looking for that extra $1000, let us know how the tank install goes...........

[DevEmp]

I also have an LJ, doing a slow build up, and gearing it more for expedition rather than rock crawling. I bought it new just under a year ago, and I've learned a few things:

Brakes. It seems the TJs and LJs have an issue with the brakes, some get lucky and don't have the problem, most eventually do. Adding the weight of camping equipment, roof racks, trailers, etc only speeds up the process. My brakes became troublesome right at 11.9k miles - still under warranty, but the dealer only masked the problem by turning the rotors. I'm now just shy of 20k miles and the problem is starting again (I can feel the pulsing). While lifts and tires and roof racks are needed, your brakes are quite important, too. Most people don't even consider the brakes when making the laundry list of upgrades... something to think about.

SYE and Tummy Tucks. From the small amount of research I've done, you'll need an SYE to fit a proper tummy tuck.

Body Lift and Motor Mount Lift. My BL/MML is happening this month, so I don't have the first hand knowledge to back it up, but everywhere that I've read you either need to raise the motor mounts by and inch or mess with the radiator shroud and shift linkage. For the minimal effort it takes to lift the motor mounts it's probably worth it in the long run.

While my build plan is calling for larger tires (35" - mainly due to the size of the rocks around here), it's still to essentially keep everything simple and easy to replace (no exotic or hybrid specialty items). To date I've done the rear bumper and tire + jerry can carrier (Jeeperman, just before they went from bad to really bad), dual overhead console from Tuffy, and 31" BFG ATs. Next on my list are the 1" BL/MML, the Genright 30 gallon tank, Vanco's 15" Jeep brake kit, SYE, Tummy Tuck, rocker and corner armor, a roll cage, and 2 or 3" lift. My build plan also includes my Canadian M101, but that's only if I don't go on day trips on the weekends.

[Beowulf]

You will not need a SYE. The LJ has a fixed yoke.

[DevEmp]

You will not need a SYE. The LJ has a fixed yoke.

I thought that only the Rubicons had the NV241 with the fixed yoke and the TJs and LJs had the NV231 with the slip yoke? Guess I'll need to crawl under and verify...

[DevEmp]

And verify I did:

http://www.deviantempire.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/dsc00957a.JPG

[kodiak1232003]

And verify I did:



holy big picture batman!.... could you pull that pic and resize it a bit..lol...thanks

also...what exactly did you verify is it slip yoke or fixed? thanks...

[cshontz]

also...what exactly did you verify is it slip yoke or fixed? thanks...

That is a slip yoke.

[DevEmp]

The non Rubicon models (should) have the 231, which is a slip yoke.

[Beowulf]

I have confirmed that you will indeed need a SYE for the 231. I tend to forget that not all jeeps have the 241.

[kodiak1232003]

Well,
The next mod is well on its way...


picked up a milemarker winch plate....

and i'm going after work today to get my
$300.00 Chicago electric winch.

-some may disagree with the H.F. winch route, but i've heard enough good things about it that i've come to a few conclusions

1. its a perm. magnet motor and will draw remarkably less power than a series wound winch.
2. i can probably expect 2-3 years of solid "couple time a year" use.
3. it pulls slow, but it pulls hard.
4. H.F.'s warranty is just fine and will cover me if i need it. if it breaks in the field, i'm confident in my ability to use my sand ladders and hi lift jack to recover myself (i've been doing that up until now....lol).
5. it leaves me $$$ to put into things like skid plates or my rack system

i'll post some pics as soon as i have them :)

[kodiak1232003]

Well,
didn't do much yesterday, but i did get a chance to mount the winch to the winch channel.

both my wife and i were impressed at how nice it looks. Its Very nicely packaged and came with good instructions and VERY beefy grade 8 hardware.

The Solonoid(sp?) mounting bracket is well thought out and went on easily(mounts to the left of the winch drum, using the bolts that hold the spreader bars on, as well as with a man-sized zip tie around the body of the winch motor) .

Also, all bolt holes lined up (winch and fairlead) with the Milemarker mounting plate i bought.

(A note on the mounting plate: I didn't even try the stock chicago electric "comes with the winch" plate, due to numerous accounts that it takes some drilling to fit to my LJ Wrang1ler (TJ's too). For 70.00 @ 4Wheelparts, I am pretty confident that it will now "bolt right on"...well worth it")

included
1. winch
2. 100-ish feet of rope
3. solonoid bracket
4. hawse fairlead(it'll do for now, until i get my synth. line)
5. grade 8 hardware
6. solonoid pack with nice motor/battery terminal cables
7. good instructions
8. very big/beefy winch line hook, twice as big as the one that came with my old ramsey.

[kodiak1232003]

So, I've got a bit of a budget and am planning on adding a few things:

here's some idea's

1. nth degree engine skid
2. skid row control arm skids
3. diff armor
4. steering box skid
5. limb risers
6. some sort of cargo barrier, to keep my family and my load separate.
7. minimal roof rack (hard top mounted) for lightweight bulky stuff (campchairs, screentent, etc.)
Also, should i get a better battery than stock? or will my factory one work o.k. for the limited winch use that this rig will endure?

any other necessities? my mods are limited to making the truck more reliable on long trips into the desert/wilderness....and i'm also committed to leaving factory drivetrain alone. Just like the camel trophy rigs....all this jeep will get is some great tires and some heavier rate springs to handle the load.

[DevEmp]

So, I've got a bit of a budget and am planning on adding a few things: 1. nth degree engine skid
Are you buying this used? I didn't see anything on AEV's product list that says they're selling Nth stuff yet.


2. skid row control arm skids
3. diff armor
4. steering box skid
While armor is never a bad thing, have you been hitting the steering box and control arms on rocks already? If you hit them often enough, maybe a lift with taller tires might be in order. Definately not cheaper than armor, but if you're constantly banging these 3 areas, lifting can only help.

A gas tank skid might be in order, too, especially if you're constantly dragging your underside. My new tank seems to be a magnet for big rocks.


5. limb risers
Limb as in tree limb? I've seen windshield pillar armor as well as some sort of steel cable that runs from the top of the windshield down to either side of the hood. If you're adding a roof rack, you might also want to extend it to protect the rack, as well, especially if you're mounting it just to the fiberglass. Also if you're spending the bulk of your time in the desert, will this mod be worth it's price?


6. some sort of cargo barrier, to keep my family and my load separate.
7. minimal roof rack (hard top mounted) for lightweight bulky stuff (campchairs, screentent, etc.)
After taking an LJ top off and watching it flex while 4 people carried it around, I'm kind of leery about mounting stuff directly to it. Sure it's more stable and rigid when bolted to the body, but watching it bow and flex didn't inspire a lot of confidence. I looked at either getting a roof rack or pulling a trailer and opted for the trailer. They both have their pros/cons, but for me it came down to having 2 torn and repaired rotator cuffs, not to mention wanting to lift the Jeep another 3 to 6 inches - a rack is more work than a trailer for me.


Also, should i get a better battery than stock? or will my factory one work o.k. for the limited winch use that this rig will endure?
I bought a new battery less than a year after I purchased the Jeep. Batteries (average generic battery, not the high end kind) in the Vegas heat typically don't last longer than 2 summers. If you plan on winching frequently you might want to consider a high grade battery, or even a dual battery set up. For emergency use only (once, twice a year?) you're probably ok. I'll be adding the dual batteries some time next year, not really for winching but just for the insurance of being able to start the Jeep in the desert heat.


any other necessities? my mods are limited to making the truck more reliable on long trips into the desert/wilderness....and i'm also committed to leaving factory drivetrain alone. Just like the camel trophy rigs....all this jeep will get is some great tires and some heavier rate springs to handle the load.
I can understand your wanting to keep the drivetrain stock, but I think a selectable locker in the rear might be worth considering. It all depends on where you're planning to go. For me in the southwest, there's a lot of rocks, loose sand, and possibly some snow. I've hit the tranny skid more than anything so far, so a SYE/CV shaft/tummy tuck are pretty high on my list, same with a few inches of suspension so I can fit larger tires (31" now, target is 35") and move my longer frame higher. If your trips involve a lot of desert time, increasing water capacity (either jerry can mounts on the back, or jugs inside) would rate high on my list, and possibly a pull pal to go with the winch. You said you already have a Hi Lift jack, it's a universal tool good for more than just changing tires.

[jeepboyd]

pics please

[kodiak1232003]

Are you buying this used? I didn't see anything on AEV's product list that says they're selling Nth stuff yet.Their stuff is listed in a 4wdhardware catolog...wasn't sure on availability.


While armor is never a bad thing, have you been hitting the steering box and control arms on rocks already? If you hit them often enough, maybe a lift with taller tires might be in order. Definately not cheaper than armor, but if you're constantly banging these 3 areas, lifting can only help. I've only drug the control arm mounts a bit, i spotted my wife through the rest and came way unscathed...probably not going to lift it other that mebbe a coil puck in the rear to level out the ride and give a bit more room

A gas tank skid might be in order, too, especially if you're constantly dragging your underside. My new tank seems to be a magnet for big rocks. not a problem so far


Limb as in tree limb? I've seen windshield pillar armor as well as some sort of steel cable that runs from the top of the windshield down to either side of the hood. If you're adding a roof rack, you might also want to extend it to protect the rack, as well, especially if you're mounting it just to the fiberglass. Also if you're spending the bulk of your time in the desert, will this mod be worth it's price?you'd be surprised how narrow the trails are in anza-borrego/pinevalley. All my past rigs had desert pinstriping by the time i was done with them


After taking an LJ top off and watching it flex while 4 people carried it around, I'm kind of leery about mounting stuff directly to it. Sure it's more stable and rigid when bolted to the body, but watching it bow and flex didn't inspire a lot of confidence. I looked at either getting a roof rack or pulling a trailer and opted for the trailer. They both have their pros/cons, but for me it came down to having 2 torn and repaired rotator cuffs, not to mention wanting to lift the Jeep another 3 to 6 inches - a rack is more work than a trailer for me.i agree. I bought a congo cage today:wings: ...heavy duty here i come. lumber/xmas tree's/sand ladders/rooftop viewing/oddsandends...beware...i've got you in my sights. No room for trailers @ our apartment unfortunately. We looked @ a 101
trailer locally, but were like"ok, but where do we park it?"...lol...

I bought a new battery less than a year after I purchased the Jeep. Batteries (average generic battery, not the high end kind) in the Vegas heat typically don't last longer than 2 summers. If you plan on winching frequently you might want to consider a high grade battery, or even a dual battery set up. For emergency use only (once, twice a year?) you're probably ok. I'll be adding the dual batteries some time next year, not really for winching but just for the insurance of being able to start the Jeep in the desert heat. groovy


I can understand your wanting to keep the drivetrain stock, but I think a selectable locker in the rear might be worth considering. It all depends on where you're planning to go. For me in the southwest, there's a lot of rocks, loose sand, and possibly some snow. I've hit the tranny skid more than anything so far, so a SYE/CV shaft/tummy tuck are pretty high on my list, same with a few inches of suspension so I can fit larger tires (31" now, target is 35") and move my longer frame higher. If your trips involve a lot of desert time, increasing water capacity (either jerry can mounts on the back, or jugs inside) would rate high on my list, and possibly a pull pal to go with the winch. You said you already have a Hi Lift jack, it's a universal tool good for more than just changing tires.I go to the desert a lot, so watercans and pullpal...on the short list...check, check....thanks!

:D

[kodiak1232003]

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/weddingdland077.jpg

here's an updated pic as the LJ sits now, thats anza borrego dust on there, too.

lol. :shakin:

[jeepboyd]

btw 2 to 3 in of lift on a lj would not require a sye . OME hd is the way to go. also consider regearing when you lift the jeep (b/c of the weight i assume you plan on carrying and especially if you want you tow, gear lower than normal with the auto.) MORE PICS PLEASE ( in action)

[Beowulf]

Have you done any new work to your LJ?

[kodiak1232003]

Have you done any new work to your LJ?

hey there,
no i haven't.

LOL. I've actually de-modded it a bit.

1. Took off the rhino stickers (accident damage, door might be resprayed)...

2. i've removed the congo cage for now...i've been doing some mileage testing for a trip up to western montana and washington/vancouver this summer.

I'm thinking about my next mods with that trip in mind.

3. Removed my side steps, in preparation for my rock sliders once my truck is fixed. (see accident thread in fireside. got lightly t-boned by a bonehead)

i've taken it offroad like 5 times locally in the last few weeks, though, so it's definitely earning its keep.

its actually got a fair 1-2" layer of fresh mud on it right now. Looks good in brown!


EDIT: i almost forgot, it is getting a new set of shoes soon...99% sure it will be BFG AT's in the 30-31" flavor, unless i can find a sweet deal on a set of rubicon rims with MT-R's...since that will take about $600 out of the piggy, it will probably be it for a while. :)

[kodiak1232003]

by the way, here's where i'm going with my wheel and tire package. I'm just going to go with 31" bfg's rather than the stockers...

just found a set on craigslist that I hope i can get my hands on. The willys edition wrangler below shares the same wheels with certain xj's from the 80's-90's. I just have to find a set and rattle can them whatever color i like. :)

http://www.jeepin.com/news/willys/willys6.jpg

[ging]

[QUOTE=Beowulf]I am running 255s on:


OME ZJ/LJ springs
JKS Upper and lower Control arms
Nth degree Tummy Tuck
Double Cardan Shaft (preemptive strict to avoid vibes)
JKS Body lift.

Rides great. Rides even better with a little cargo. As sit it sits in these pitures it is fully loaded for week long trip to the San Juans.

[QUOTE]

I really dig your LJ. Any issues with your set up? or anything you'd do differently? I just ordered the Aev/Nth TT, how do the transmission mounts hold up and what did you do with your locker pumps...sorry for the all the ?'s but trying to avoid the buy then buy again syndrome.

[Beowulf]

Actaully there is nothing I would do differently. This set up has been perfect so far.

The locker pump is in just about the stock location in the place outlined by the Nth instructions.

I have only had this setup for 12,000 miles. So moderate trails have been part of that miles, but nothing extreme. The bushings look like they did on day one. I have not heard of anyone having issues with the Nth transmission mounts.

[ging]

Good to know...waiting for my TT from AEV. Couple more questions for ya..

What backspacing are the AVE wheels your running and any rubbing issues?

I plan on running the OME lift but no BL..Would I be better of with a 265X75X16 tire instead of the 255X85X16 or does it look like I'll have room?

[Beowulf]

The AEV rims measure 4.75". Stock Moabs on the Rubicon are 5”. My brother is running the Standard OME HD with 1” BL on 285/75 (33X11.5) MTRs and Stock Moabs. He had rubbing on the Stock Lower control arm. When he switched to JKS arms the rubbing stopped. The stock control arms are pretty wide. If he had been running 255/85 (33X10) he would not have had any rubbing even with the stock arms.

Now that takes care of the rubbing on arms. Next would be is there enough vertical clearance with only OME? I’d say yes as long as you use the OME HD if you are not going to run a bull bar or winch. If you are I’d go with OME ZJ/LJ. The OME ZJ coils are set for the weight of the Grand Cherokee V8.

Bare minimum, if you just were not comfortable with the amount of vertical clearance is to use the OME 10mm spacer. This thing is really thin, but can give you that small, just needed boost.

[Metcalf]

For 255s I would second the ZJ/LJ spring combo. If the rear end of your LJ isn't too heavily loaded this gives plenty of room for 255s when things settle out. Just remember that you may have to adjust the front and rear bumpstops a bit to prevent interference on compression. As a rule of thumb, if you can't put the tire on the vehicle stock than you won't get a clean fit with a lift unless you adjust the bump stops.

Also remember that not all 255s are created equal. Some are a lot taller than others. I think the BFG 255s are some of the tallest, yet the Truxus 255s are not really even close.

If you do get any rubbing on the lower control arm you might try running a control arm with a bend to the inside. You don't see them too often but are a great idea for more clearance. I can't remember exactly but I think the stock WJs use a bent lower arm in from that only needs minor modifications to fit in a TJ.

The AEV 16" wheels are just about perfect for the 255s. The 8" width is plenty wide enough for the 255s. I would recommend that you use bead sealant goop ( black thick stuff ) on the inner and outer beads when you put everything together. I have used this stuff for years as poor mans beadlocks with very good luck.

[ging]

Thanks for the info. I'm really looking forward to building up my LJ. All the ideas in my head are killing me. I should really just do some real soul searching cause the LJ's been more than capable in stock form for what i use it for but moddifying a jeep is half the fun.:D

So far torn between two ways to fit a 33" tire with no body lift....

#1 OME ZJ/LJ lift and 3/4" spring spacer...

#2 stock suspension and highline or rokmen flat fender mod...

Money wise the ZJ/LJ lift would be the ticket and I'd have $ left over for control arms...decisions, decisions...

[Beowulf]

I would go with #1

[kodiak1232003]

one thing that i find challenging is to take the truck offroad first and truly see what needs to be changed.

we just went on a trail ride out to the desert with our jeep a few months ago with both stock trucks and lifted ones.

my jeep had no need for anything aftermarket other than the CB radio, and my cheapie HF winch(wife's piece of mind = worth a lot)

personally,i'm trying to limit myself to the upgrades that will truly make my jeep better than stock. (free jeep part catalogs every month make it hard:D)

personally I think lifting a vehicle more that an OME kit(i.e. higher spring rate for load carrying on rough roads) is taking away from the Jeeps inheirant(sp?) reliability, but I have the viewpoint of someone who likes to get FAR away from people and places, and therefore needs certain things, "just to work".

Don't get me wrong. I think jeep cheaped out on a handful of things, just to make production easier (i.e. stamped steel lower control arms, the shovel skidplate, no protection for the engine, etc.) and thats my focus.

just my .02 cents. feel free to continue talking about yur all's LJs in this thread...i love seeing different perspectives, its good stuff.:lurk:

[kodiak1232003]

here's my plan as of today(subject to change daily :D)

winch.........................done
CB.............................done
hi-lift storage..............done
steel wheels............pending
tougher tires...........pending
lockable storage........not done.
external storage........not quite/still working
snorkel....................not done
rock sliders.............pending
engine skid..............not done
flatter belly skid...........not done

[Beowulf]

I feel kodiak1232003 has the correct idea. From owning a completely stock 2003 SWB Rubicon and taking it many places I knew exactly what I need to upgrade for the most difficult terrain I travel. The only thing that I really noticed when using a stock Rubicon was the following issues:

o Hit the lower front control arms axle mount
o Got hung up on the stock T-case skid
o Scrapped the Gas Tank quite a bit.
o Broke a Zerk off the Tie Rod
o Bent the lip of a front Lower control arm right where it mounts to the axle.
o Skimmed the lower edge of my rear diff housing


To have alleviated these problems all I would have to do was:

o TT belly up skid
o JKS Miniskids for the control arm mounts
o New gas tank skid that raises 1”
o Broken zerk could still happen, but upgrade to Currie steering
o New lower control arms made out of tubing. (but I would not have bent the arms if I had the miniskids on)
o New Diff covers for protection, or Nth Sliders

From doing a light trail once fully loaded with camping gear, I noticed the problems above were amplified. So I knew a lift was in order to help with the carrying capacity. To keep things as stock as possible that is why I only run 33’s with OME ZJ/LJ. However, as overkill is second nature, other things got upgraded to make sure I never had any problems not matter what. For how I travel will I ever need everything…No, but I know it is there to keep me safe. I once heard a phrase that stuck with me.

“It is not so much as building an expedition vehicle that can get you in, but building on that can get you back out.”

Here is the full list of what is now on my Rig:

o OME ZJ/LJ (the zj springs are for the V8 Grand Cherokee. Same height as regular TJ OME coils but the spring rate is set for a V8 Engine)
o JKS Control Arms (upper and lower)
o JKS Mini Skids welded on the front lower control arm skids
o Currie Steering System
o Alloy Axle Shafts Front and Rear
o Alloy Axle Seals
o Yukon 4.56 gears
o Upgraded Drive Shaft Double Cardan Shaft
o Riddler Diff Covers
o Kilby Steering box Skid
o Nth Degree Mobility Tummy Tucker
o AEV Bridger Wheels
o Nth Degree Oil Pan Skid
o 255/85R16 BFG MTs (33.2x10)
o Rokmen Front Bumper
o Superwinch epi9.0
o AEV Rocker Guards
o Kilby OBA system
o Genright Safari 31.5 gallon gas tank
o HID Aux Lights
o Genright Rear Crossmember Reinforcement plate
o Genright Frame Tie-in Brackets
o Limb Risers
o Jeep Mud Flaps

[Metcalf]

I definitely think that a lot of people need to get some good old fashion seat time, get stuck, get broke, and learn to recover. I can say that some of the best times I ever had off-road where in an almost bone stock TJ. The only additions it had where a set of disconnects in front, tool bag behind the seat, tow strap, shovel, axe, and a hi-lift. I went more places in that thing! I lucked out and had a great factory combo. This was before the Rubicon editions, but I loved the 3spd auto,trac-loc, and 3.73 gears with 30" tires. I took that thing all over the place and back. I swear I spent at least 3-4 evenings and most weekends doing something off-road or driving somewhere. I was lucky that I lived in an area where quality trails where literately only 10 minutes away.

I would also suggest that people stay away from the bolt-on jeep catalogs till they get a good deal of seat time first.

I had someone really wise tell me once that the FIRST thing you should do is bolt on a winch. This old codger had been 'wheeling since the 50s uranium booms. He said, and I quote 'All that stuff will only get you stuck farther from home, what you need is a winch on the front of that thing'. He had a very valid point. The more and more you build up the capability of a vehicle it has to be balanced out with your recovery skills, ability, and mechanical knowledge. Those locking differentials, bigger tires, alloy axles, fancy suspensions, etc all let you press you vehicle farther into the back country and farther from other people. You may be able to 'go anywhere' but your going to get stuck someday.....

[OKRCON]

o Broken zerk could still happen, but upgrade to Currie steering


I took one of the needle type zerk fittings out of a disfunctional set of u-joints and replaced the standard zerk after I broke mine off. It will be very difficult to break it off now! I have to grease my CTM's with the needle fitting periodically so it isn't an inconvienience at all.

[Beowulf]

That is a great idea. I know sooner or later I'm going to snap the zerk off my Currie system as well. After all it is in the same spot as OEM.

[OKRCON]

That is a great idea. I know sooner or later I'm going to snap the zerk off my Currie system as well. After all it is in the same spot as OEM.

I can vouch for that. I have Currie setup and mine did break off.

[ging]

Great advice, "build to get you back". I'll be adding control arm skids and winch to the list.....

I know what your saying about enjoying the jeep as is. My first jeep was an 89 wrangler with 31's I bought in 93. Had a blast hunting and fishing and wheeling in it stock...great pride in concuring trails with a "little" jeep.

Then in 99 I added Mopar fuel injection and the black diamond coil over kit. If I had to do it again I definaitely would have done the injection but skipped the coil over. "high COG" made wheelin spooky.

sold it in 03....now back with the LJ :)

can't wait to get out and stretch the LJ's legs a bit...