Whenever I talk to someone from the Midwest or East Coast who finds out I have been to EJS or Easter Jeep Safari; they ask me if it is worth it. In simple layman&#8217;s terms, yes, but the actual answer really isn&#8217;t that simple.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1147-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4032" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1147-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1147-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1147-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1147-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1147-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wheeling with friends during the 50th Anniversary of EJS in 2016</figcaption></figure>







Let&#8217;s explore why this answer is more complex than a simple yes. If you don&#8217;t know, EJS was started by the Moab Chamber of Commerce in 1967, and the very first run trail organized was the Behind the Rocks Trail, at least according to the club president it says. Currently, the Red Rock 4 Wheelers runs and organizes the EJS festivities over the entire nine days. Near the end of the event, most of the vendors gather to showcase their products to all the participants.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0837-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4033" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0837-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0837-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0837-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0837-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0837-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">End of Pritchett Canyon from EJS 2022</figcaption></figure>







My history started around the mid-2000s. When my family moved back to Colorado in the late 90s, my dad bought a Jeep. This was my first time being introduced to the Jeep world, and I was hooked. At first, it was all about mountain roads and camping. But a buddy of mine bought a TJ and built it with long arms and these huge 35-inch tires, showing me the world of rock crawling.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1142-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4034" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1142-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1142-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1142-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1142-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1142-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Checking out that mad flex from 2016</figcaption></figure>







I can&#8217;t remember ever going to EJS until 2010. But almost every spring break, when kids go to beaches, I come home, and we take the Jeeps to Moab to go Jeeping. By the spring of 2005, my dad had bought what is now my LJ, and we took both the 95 YJ and the 05 LJ to Moab for some fun. We were always a week or two early for EJS, but we could see that the town was gearing up as both people and rigs were starting to show up.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0835-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4035" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0835-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0835-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0835-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0835-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0835-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Had to update the flex from the MetalCloak CTI trailer in 2022</figcaption></figure>







Finally, in 2010, I met some friends in Moab and joined them for EJS. This was the first time I saw what all the fun was about. My friends had a camper and had been camping out behind the rocks on the main road and knew all the back roads and how to get around. Each morning, we would go to different trail locations, set up camp at major obstacles, and watch as the main EJS Jeep groups would come through. This also helped me learn how to get around the trails in Moab without the book, which has come in handy later in life.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_4323-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-4036" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_4323-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_4323-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_4323-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_4323-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_4323-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One of the Jeep Concept vehicles. </figcaption></figure>







I had so much fun in 2010, and I went back the following year with my buddy Chase and some other friends. I&#8217;ve been scrolling through his Facebook and mine, trying to remember which trails we ran and whether we went to Potato Salad Hill or what we did. That was some time ago, and we are getting old. Some things have been forgotten over the years.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0832-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4037" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0832-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0832-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0832-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0832-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0832-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Always great seeing friends I&#8217;ve met on the Unlimited LJ Adventure</figcaption></figure>







It had been some years since I had gone in 2011, but I wanted to return for the 50th anniversary of the Easter Jeep Safari in 2017; by then, I was living in Oklahoma and had made a friend here who had had a couple of Jeeps over the years. We loaded up my Jeep, and I knew of at least one or two people going to be there, and off we went. This was the first time I met people from the industry. People who work for off-road companies or companies that offer products to the off-road world in some capacity.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="374" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1926-Pano-1024x374.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4039" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1926-Pano-1024x374.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1926-Pano-300x110.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1926-Pano-768x280.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1926-Pano-1536x561.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1926-Pano-2048x748.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">REVKIT Moab Rim EJS 2023 Run</figcaption></figure>







The next opportunity I had was in 2022 and was by far the most unique one yet. By this time, I had started working with companies like Yukon Gear &amp; Axle, Teraflex, Gearhead Coffee, WARN, and Driven Racing Oil, to name a few. I was going on behalf of Gearhead Coffee, working alongside the Jessi Combs Foundation and WARN Industries. It was an experience I will never forget.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_2198-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4040" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_2198-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_2198-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_2198-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_2198-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_2198-2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hells Revenge can get busy during EJS</figcaption></figure>







But here&#8217;s the thing. A lot of people do not get that type of experience. Most people who attend EJS do so by signing up via the Red Rock 4 Wheelers website and choosing which trails they want to run and on which days. It can fill up quickly, so you better stay on top of it and know when they open up if you want to reserve your favorite trail.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EJS2-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4041" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EJS2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EJS2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EJS2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EJS2-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EJS2-2048x1151.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Friends pose after a long day of wheeling</figcaption></figure>







Now, we need to get into the nitty and gritty, and why not go? You have heard a little bit of my experiences from the times I have gone, but should you go? Do you like crowds? Don&#8217;t go. Plain and simple. It&#8217;s crowded. It has maybe gotten a little less since the pandemic, but not really. Every year, EJS has grown, and when the 4-door Jeep was introduced in 2007, sales exploded, and so did the popularity of the event. Yes, it was always busy, but it got really busy after that. I love my beloved LJ, but Jeep sold more 4-door JKs in the first year than they did in 3 years of the LJ. When you walk through the vendor show to talk to your favorite company, sometimes you have to wait forever in line to be able to talk to them. In recent years, some companies have been skipping EJS and not having a booth at the vendor show. So unless you find them out on the trail, you can&#8217;t see what they might be debuting that year. Also, the cost. Hotels are double-triple what you might see somewhere else, and Airbnb and VRBO prices are outrageous just because they can.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="449" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CN023_024JP__mid.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4042" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CN023_024JP__mid.jpg 800w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CN023_024JP__mid-300x168.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CN023_024JP__mid-768x431.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><a href="https://revkit.com/2023-jeep-ejs-concept/">2023 Jeep EJS Concept Vehicles</a></figcaption></figure>







So why should you go if it&#8217;s so bad? The experience. There is nothing like it. There are some great events all around the country now, and they all have their own twist on things, but nothing is quite like EJS. Nothing has the history, the aura, the wanting to always go back, no matter what time you got back from completing Pritchett Canyon in the dark because your fan relay decided to die on the bumpy easy part after finishing the hard part in under three hours. Even when you don&#8217;t move for an hour, the people you meet while talking can be people who become lifelong friends. There is nothing like the off-road community, whether it&#8217;s Jeeps, Broncos, or those pesky SXS. Even with crowds and long waits on the trails, I always want to go to the Easter Jeep Safari. Time will tell if I make it to every Easter Jeep Safari, as my Jeep likes to break down over the winter. I couldn&#8217;t make it for 2024, but I&#8217;ve talked to many friends and a few who went for the first time. It sounds like it was a great time and for the ones that went for the first time, they are now hooked and planning on going next year. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0649-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4043" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0649-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0649-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0649-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0649-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_0649-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The friends you make will last a lifetime</figcaption></figure>

Easter Jeep Safari: Worth It?

I have been sitting on PRP Daily Driver seats for over 11 years now and decided the time was right to upgrade to larger seats. Over those 11 years, I had gained a pound or two, and the Daily Driver seats were starting to fit snugly. So, it was time to upgrade.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/DULX7856-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4002" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/DULX7856-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/DULX7856-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/DULX7856-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/DULX7856-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/DULX7856-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I couldn&#8217;t wait to get started on installing the PRP Comp Elites</figcaption></figure>







If you head over to the PRP website, you can get lost in all the options of different types and styles of seats. I have many friends with PRP seats, so over the years, when I saw a different style, I would ensure I sat in their seats to see if I liked it.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2128-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4003" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2128-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2128-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2128-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2128-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2128-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Working on getting the old seats removed. Also had to remove the center console</figcaption></figure>







I knew I didn&#8217;t need to recline, so the Enduro Elites were out. But one cool thing that PRP now offers when it comes to the Enduro is they offer four different styles you can choose from depending on how aggressive you want the side bolsters to be. I wanted to go back with something other than the Daily Driver&#8217;s, even if it was a great seat. One of my friends installed the Comp Elite&#8217;s in his LJ, and I knew I had to try them out. Once I sat in his Jeep, I knew those were the seats I wanted.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2129-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4004" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2129-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2129-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2129-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2129-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2129-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Factory slider with PRP brackets attached to the old Daily Drivers</figcaption></figure>







If you have ever looked for seats on the PRP website, you will notice that you can make just about any seat in any color and with any options. It really is endless. After digging a little and asking a PRP rep, I found that the least customizable seat still has over 45,000 different options. The Premier seat, the most average seat, has over 2 billion combinations on the website. This is one of the reasons why I love PRP seats. Almost impossible to have the same seat as anyone else, unless they love yours and copy it.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2132-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4005" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2132-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2132-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2132-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2132-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2132-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Better look of the factory sliders along with the PRP brackets you can buy</figcaption></figure>







Now that I had chosen which seats to order, it was time to figure out the combination I wanted for the new PRP Comp Elite. After configuring it a thousand different ways, I finally decided to go ahead and get the extra wide and extra tall and added the heated seats. Figured if I was going to order new seats, get exactly what I wanted. Now, it was time to wait.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2133-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4006" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2133-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2133-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2133-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2133-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2133-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You can see how much bigger the new Comp Elites are over the old Daily Drivers</figcaption></figure>







Thankfully, the seats came reasonably quickly. PRP has done a great job in speeding up custom orders, and the new seats showed up a little more than two months after ordering. When you decide to get new seats, do your research on your specific vehicle to ensure you know what you need to install them correctly. Jeep Wranglers are pretty simple overall, and my LJ was no exception. What would make it easier for me was that I already had PRP seats in the Jeep that I installed 10+ years ago.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2135-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4007" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2135-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2135-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2135-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2135-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2135-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Putting the seat assembly on the front bumper actually helped with removing the bracketry</figcaption></figure>







Regarding the TJ/LJ platform, a basic bracket can be bought from PRP to add the seats to the stock seat mounts. I remember how hard it was to remove the stock seat mount from the stock seat. I do not remember the procedure, but it sucked. Just take the time to disassemble the two to add the bracket and new seat. Once you have the two parts separated, you can go ahead and mount the seat bracket and then the seat. I ordered the extra wide option with the new seats, which adds 2 inches to the width. Therefore, it also adds two inches to the mounting. When I pulled the old seats out and took them off, I noticed the new seats were two inches wider. After looking at both passenger and driver side brackets, I realized I could swap one from each side to make them the width I needed. I was afraid I would have to build custom brackets, but thankfully, I didn&#8217;t need to.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="576" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_E2139-576x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4008" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_E2139-576x1024.jpg 576w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_E2139-169x300.jpg 169w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_E2139-768x1365.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_E2139-864x1536.jpg 864w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_E2139-1152x2048.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_E2139-scaled.jpg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Test fitting the driver seat</figcaption></figure>







Each seat has twelve bolts to attach. Four, mount the seat to the bracket. Another four mount the bracket to the stock seat slider. The last four mount the seat slider to the Jeep itself. To make it all mount correctly, you will need to mount the PRP bracket to the stock slider first before you mount the seat to the bracket. If you do, it really makes it easier to get the bracket on after the seat is mounted to the bracket. Now that the seat is attached to the whole system, it is time to fit it inside the Jeep. PRP does warn everyone that with the wide seat, you may need to modify the inside of your Jeep. This is what I had to do with my Jeep. I removed the center console to make it all happy. The outside of each seat barely touches my cage as it slides front to the back. I will build a custom center console one day, but for now, I will leave the stock one out.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2877-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4009" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2877-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2877-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2877-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2877-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2877-rotated.jpg 2016w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wiring harness for the heated seats</figcaption></figure>







Now that the seats are in and everything clears, it&#8217;s time to wire in the heated seats. I have always hated wiring. It always seems like such a large job and complicated. When it boils down to it, wiring is actually simple: power and ground. Now, I need to figure out where and how I want to make that happen.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/71088847460__68D3761D-2E8D-40D5-A870-216FE206E9EA-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4010" style="width:650px;height:auto" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/71088847460__68D3761D-2E8D-40D5-A870-216FE206E9EA-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/71088847460__68D3761D-2E8D-40D5-A870-216FE206E9EA-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/71088847460__68D3761D-2E8D-40D5-A870-216FE206E9EA-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/71088847460__68D3761D-2E8D-40D5-A870-216FE206E9EA-rotated.jpg 1512w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wiring it inside the Jeep and leaving the control turned on while controlling the power with the S-Pod</figcaption></figure>







At first, I thought about putting all the wiring into the fuse block area in the dash. After thinking about it for a while and looking over it, I asked a friend who mentioned he had wired into his S-pod. I have an S-Tech system to control my lockers and lights and only had one spot open. I decided to go ahead and wire in both seats to the one open slot. PRP sends you a whole wiring harness that is really nice and definitely makes it simpler to wire in. They also include an on/off switch. I went ahead and wired in both seats to the S-Tech, and I left the on/off switch next to each seat. To make it work, you will need to turn the power on and then turn on each seat. I will probably move the switches to a central location, but for now, I will leave them near each seat where it is easy to reach. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image1-5-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-4015" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image1-5-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image1-5-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image1-5-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image1-5-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image1-5-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I put the heated seats on the &#8220;Danger&#8221; button so you would know your butt is going to get hot.</figcaption></figure>







PRP makes many different seats and many different options within each of those seats. If you can not find what you are looking for, not sure you will ever find it. From racing seats to bench seats, PRP has it all. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image0-11-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-4016" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image0-11-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image0-11-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image0-11-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image0-11-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image0-11-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The extra wide are a tight squeeze, but they are worth it for me.</figcaption></figure>

Installing PRP Comp Elite Seats

Making my own Power Wagon: Part 1

Shortly after my friend bought his new 2023 Ford F-450, he gave me a call wanting to talk about bed covers and wanting to install a new one on his truck; like me, he had a soft tonneau cover on his old F-250, but this time, he wanted something different: a little more security and a little more solid. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3044-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3955" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3044-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3044-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3044-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3044-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3044-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RETRAX bed cover came in a nicely packaged box</figcaption></figure>







After taking my new truck to his place to check out my BAK Cover, he decided he wanted a roll-up hardcover. We decided to see what we could find on RealTruck, and after looking around, he decided to go with the RETRAX Pro Tonneau Cover. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3048-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3956" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3048-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3048-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3048-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3048-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3048-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Side rails installed onto the main box</figcaption></figure>







The RETRAX Pro Tonneau Cover is a rolling hard shell cover that is lockable. People love the ability to have a hardcover that can roll up into a storage bin while being able to lock it up when it is needed. One advantage of the RETRAX over my BAK Cover is you can open it without having to open the tailgate.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3049-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3957" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3049-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3049-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3049-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3049-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3049-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aligning the main box square with the bed</figcaption></figure>



 



Working at a dealership for many years, I saw lots of the RETRAX, but I never helped install one. I felt like installing the cover went really smoothly and quickly. The instructions were well laid out and easy to follow.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3051-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3958" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3051-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3051-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3051-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3051-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3051-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Installing the C-clips to attach the whole system to the bed</figcaption></figure>







As with most installs, the first step is pulling everything out of their boxes and evaluating what we all have. The RETRAX PRO came in two boxes: the main box with the RETRAX itself and the other box with the rail system. The second step was to install the rails onto the RETRAX. There is only one way to install the rails, so that went fairly quickly.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3053-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3959" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3053-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3053-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3053-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3053-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3053-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Adjusting the locking and latching mechanism</figcaption></figure>







Once the rails are on, it&#8217;s time to put the whole assembly into the truck. Lifting the RETRAX is where you will need a friend. I&#8217;m sure someone has put one in alone, but it makes it more accessible. Now that the assembly is in, it is time to install the c-clamps and adjust the rail system. You will slide the cover out and in a couple of times as you adjust the rails to make sure it&#8217;s not too tight or too loose.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3054-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3960" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3054-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3054-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3054-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3054-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3054-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Installing the front cover and sliding the cover in and out to make sure it works</figcaption></figure>







The last step is to adjust the latch. When you latch it, you must adjust it tighter so no one can push it open. If you are in the market for a hard retractable cover for your truck, it is hard to beat a RETRAX PRO. The only other one you may want would be the electric version, but my friend opted for the regular cover.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3055-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3961" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3055-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3055-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3055-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3055-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_3055-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">RETRAX installed and looking good</figcaption></figure>

RETRAX PRO Bed Cover Install

2023 Unlimited LJ Adventure: The Potato Adventure

I have always heard about <a href="https://agm-products.com/collections/suspension/products/suspension-sliders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AGM-Products</a> and their suspension sliders, but I only needed to look into them once I got some Bilstein coil-overs. Most coil-overs come with some form of slider to divide the upper and lower spring so you can have a true dual-rate coil-over, and they do their job just fine, but what if you could have something better? 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3817" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">AGM Suspension Slider next to the stock one. </figcaption></figure>







When I first put on my coil-overs, I looked into buying the AGM suspension sliders, but unfortunately, I was out of money at the time. But after installing them this last weekend and wheeling the LJ over the previous year and a half, I wish I had installed them from the beginning. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-9-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3818" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-9-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-9-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-9-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-9-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-9-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Setting up to remove the rear coil-overs</figcaption></figure>







What exactly are they, and why would you need them? Almost every coil-over comes with a slider, a piece that divides the upper and lower springs, allowing the two to coil up or fully extend. Most are just simple pieces of plastic. AGM found that this can cause binding as it does not allow the two different springs to move independently and can cause premature wear on the stock slider. AGM went to the drawing board and created a three-piece design allowing each spring to rotate as needed throughout its cycle. The upper and lower pieces are made from 6061 aluminum, while the inner part is made of proprietary plastic of some kind, and that makes up the three pieces. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image10-1-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3819" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image10-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image10-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image10-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image10-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image10-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You will need to move the rubber bump stop up to remove the coil bucket</figcaption></figure>







After listening to my springs rub up against the stock slider when I would go off-roading, I finally decided I needed these. I knew that was the noise; I could tell it was a plastic rubbing noise. Now that I have them, it is time to get them installed. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3821" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Coils are removed, time to install the new AGM sliders </figcaption></figure>







I started with the Jeep&#8217;s rear, knowing it would be easier than working on the front. I borrowed some tall jack stands from my buddy as I do not have a lift. If you have a vehicle lift, the job could be done faster than I did. Even without a vehicle lift, I finished the job in just over two hours. I raised the Jeep up, removed the tires, and put the jacks on the rear bumper. I then let the suspension hang down so I could work on each side to get the AGM sliders on. Thankfully I was able to get the old springs off without completely removing the coil-over, which saved a lot of time and headaches. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3822" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I made sure to move the top preload nut all the way up to make removing the coils easier</figcaption></figure>







To make it easier, loosen the top preload nut completely. Each coil-over is different in how they work, but on the Bilsteins, all you need to do is loosen the set screw and loosen the nut back. Doing this will allow you to quickly move the bottom coil up enough to get the bottom coil mount off so the coils slide off. Now that the coils and old slider are off, time to put everything back together. The top coil goes on, the AGM slider, and the bottom coil. Since the preload nut is up, you can push the coils up enough to get the coil retainer on so you can then preset everything again. Another item the Bilsteins have that not all coil-overs have is a built-in bump stop. To get the coil mount off, you must move the built-in bump stop up enough to pull the coil mount off. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3824" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Time to get the front coil-overs done</figcaption></figure>







For the most part, the rear and front come apart and go back together the same way. The most significant difference is how you go about lifting the vehicle. The rear is more accessible due to the fact you can lift the whole vehicle with the rear pumpkin. You should be more careful with the front as it can move side to side easier as you droop the axle. I started with the passenger and then moved to the driver&#8217;s side once it was done. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/agm-sliders-1-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3825" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/agm-sliders-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/agm-sliders-1-300x169.png 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/agm-sliders-1-768x432.png 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/agm-sliders-1-1536x863.png 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/agm-sliders-1-2048x1151.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">AGM Three piece design next to the old sliders</figcaption></figure>







If you are on the fence about adding these to your coil-overs, you must go ahead and get off the fence. One of the AGM company&#8217;s best features in its suspension sliders: they make them specific for each company&#8217;s coil-over and size. So whether you have Bilsteins, Fox, or Kings, AGM makes a product for you. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image3-1-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3826" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image3-1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image3-1-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image3-1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image3-1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image3-1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">AGM sliders installed. Now time to hit the rocks</figcaption></figure>

AGM Suspension Slider Install

I have always seen aftermarket steering wheels. It was when one of my friends bought a buggy years ago, and it came with a detachable steering wheel. I thought it was pretty cool at the time, but I wasn&#8217;t sure I would ever want one. Fast forward many years, and after I installed the new PRP Comp Elites, I knew I needed to look at installing a steering wheel that I could remove. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image0-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3875" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image0-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image0-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image0-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image0-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image0-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">It was time to replace the stock steering wheel.</figcaption></figure>







So the time was now to call up Jeff Perkins, <a href="https://revkit.com/banshee-tj/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Banshee TJ</a>, at Genright for the one-stop shopping of both the <a href="https://genright.com/shop-by-vehicle/jeep-tj-97-06/jeep-tj-lj-quick-disconnect-steering-wheel-hub-adapter-kit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genright TJ/LJ Quick Disconnect Steering Wheel Adapter</a> and the <a href="https://genright.com/shop-by-vehicle/jeep-jku-4-dr-07-18/steering/prp-leather-flat-steering-wheel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PRP Steering wheel</a>. They always make ordering easy, and it came from California to Oklahoma. Three days and everything was at my door. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image2-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3876" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image2-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image2-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image2-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image2-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image2-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My airbag had 2 electrical connections to unplug</figcaption></figure>







Now that the new parts came in, it was time to install everything. I read the instructions real quick to see if I needed anything special. I noticed that you will need some form of two-prong puller to get the steering wheel off. I do not have one, so I went ahead and ran down to my local Harbor Freight and bought a kit of three different sizes of two-prong pullers. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image1-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3877" style="width:650px;height:488px" width="650" height="488" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image1-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Disconnect the battery</figcaption></figure>







After I got that done, I returned home and started removing the steering wheel. But first thing is first, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY. You never want to mess with the airbag with the battery still connected. The last thing you want is for that dumb thing to blow up in your face while trying to disconnect it. Unfortunately, stuff like that can happen, and it is not pretty. Two screws hold the steering wheel on, and you need to use an 8mm socket on them. After the screws are removed, you can pull the airbag out, but you must disconnect the two electrical plug-ins for the cruise. REMEMBER, DISCONNECT THE BATTERY.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image3-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3878" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image3-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image3-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image3-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image3-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image3-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I went ahead and got some 2 Jaw Pullers</figcaption></figure>







On my airbag, there were two different electrical connectors. This will all depend on whether your steering wheel has an airbag or if it also has buttons on the steering wheel for other controls. Now that the electrical connections were unhooked and the airbag was gone, it was time to unscrew the steering wheel. After I got the bolt loosened, I kept it where it belonged so I could use the two-prong puller to push off the bolt. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image5-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3879" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image5-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image5-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image5-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image5-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image5-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I kept the stock bolt part way in to make it easier to remove</figcaption></figure>







Now that the steering wheel is pulled off, I removed the clock spring since I didn&#8217;t need to keep any of the electrical connections. I did a quick paint on the Genright adapter before installation. One nice thing about the Genright adapter with the late model TJ/LJ is the adapter is attached via a bolt. For some of the older TJs, you will have to drill and tap, and Genright does include instructions on how to do that. Thankfully for mine, it is not needed. I used a little bit of Loctite on the bolt as I never intend to remove the bolt. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image6-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3880" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image6-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image6-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image6-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image6-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image6-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Everything removed and ready for the adapter</figcaption></figure>







Once the adapter was installed, I returned to my workbench to install the disconnect to the PRP Steering wheel. Again, I used some Loctite to ensure the bolts connecting the steering wheel to the disconnect wouldn&#8217;t come off. One of the reasons I went with the Genrigh adapter and disconnect is because it is a genuine splined connection. Some of the other companies use this ball-bearing style. I&#8217;m sure they are fine, but the splined style is stronger and something you see on virtually every Ultra4 car or other types of racing vehicle. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image8-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3881" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image8-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image8-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image8-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image8-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image8-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Adapter piece bolted on. No drilling required. </figcaption></figure>







This was a crazy easy install, and you should not hesitate if you are looking into a new steering wheel with the ability to remove it. If you have questions, call Jeff or find him at a Jeep event; he would love to answer any questions. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image9-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3882" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image9-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image9-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image9-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image9-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/image9-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Time to install the disconnect onto the steering wheel. </figcaption></figure>

PRP Steering wheel and Genright Adapter Install

Raceline Ryno Beadlock Install

A new truck showed up, so first thing first, time to get a tonneau cover for it. On my 2012 Ram 2500, I had a Truxedo roll-up tonneau cover, which did what it was supposed to do. But one of my complaints is that the velcro part won&#8217;t stick very well in high winds, and you can see and hear it flapping in the back. So I wanted something a little better.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3769" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image0-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cover came nicely packaged and it is Made In The USA</figcaption></figure>







A friend I had met last summer at an event in Wichita, KS was going to be at another event I was going at Disney, and I knew I had to talk to him since he sold these type of covers every day. After discussing for a little bit about what I wanted, he mentioned if I had ever looked at the Revolver X4 or Sentry CT covers. Since I had not, I headed over to <a href="https://realtruck.com/p/bak-revolver-x4s-tonneau-cover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RealTruck.com</a> to check them out and see what he was talking about. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="576" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image2-576x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3770" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image2-576x1024.jpeg 576w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image2-169x300.jpeg 169w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image2-768x1365.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image2-864x1536.jpeg 864w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image2-1152x2048.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image2-scaled.jpeg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">All pieces that come and ready for assembly</figcaption></figure>







I had never seen one like this before, but I had not looked either. I knew about the soft roll-ups, like the one I had, the retractable covers, three-piece folding, and the solid one-piece covers, but I knew I didn&#8217;t want any of those. The retractable ones take up to much bed space, and with a 6ft 4in bed, losing 12-14 inches is a lot. I have never liked the three-piece folding, and the solid won&#8217;t work for what I need.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3771" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image4-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Instructions, including the supplemental instructions</figcaption></figure>







I watched videos on the BAK Revolver X4 and Truxedo Sentry CT, and I could see why he mentioned and recommended those. They are basically a hybrid between a soft roll-up and a retractable. At least, that is how I look at them. So why did I choose the BAK Revolver X4? It came down to the fact that there was no velcro and the sides lock into place. Now comes the fun part, installation.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image6-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3772" width="650" height="487" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image6-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image6-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image6-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image6-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image6-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Front bed seal</figcaption></figure>







Overall, the installation is relatively straightforward, with one little caveat, the RamBox makes it a little more complicated than most trucks. One thing I appreciated about BAK is they sent the supplemental instructions with the cover. Sometimes with companies, you have to look on their site for specific extra instructions. I knew my vehicle would be one of them since the truck has the RamBoxes. But thankfully, BAK sent the supplemental instructions with the kit.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3773" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image7-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You have to remove the end cap and tie down points on the RamBox rail</figcaption></figure>







The instructions are simple to follow and easy to follow. What makes it more difficult is how the side rails attach due to the RamBox. I am one to look at instructions online, and I have seen how most are attached. They use some form of clap to attach the side rails to the bed. With the RamBox, you install the side rails in the existing rail system. This seemed like it would make it even faster to install, but I found that getting those all the way in was a royal pain in the ass.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3774" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image8-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Installing the passenger side rail</figcaption></figure>







They become extremely tight once you start guiding the side rails into the existing rail system. I tried some grease to see if it would help, but it didn&#8217;t. The instructions mentioned using soap and water. So I filled a spray bottle with soap and water and tried that. It could help a little. But I ended up using a short piece of 4&#215;4 wood and a 6lb sledgehammer. Probably not what they had wanted me to use, but it is what got the job done. For those who don&#8217;t want to mess with installing it yourself, <a href="https://realtruck.com/dealer-locator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RealTruck</a> does have a nice dealer locator that is easy to use and can direct you to your local installer. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3775" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image9-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Driver side rail all the way installed</figcaption></figure>







After you get the rails in, it is time to lay out the tonneau cover itself. It is rolled up opposite of how you would unroll it, but once you got it unrolled, it was easy to put into place. After installing a tailgate seal, you start to unroll the cover to line it up. It went well getting it squared up, but it took a couple of adjustments to get the depth correctly. But once I did, it was time to tighten down the bolts. Once everything was secure. I closed it and opened it several times to make sure everything worked the way it should.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image13-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3777" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image13-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image13-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image13-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image13-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image13-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">4 bolts, 2 each side you will need to tighten down during install</figcaption></figure>







At the time of writing, I have only had this cover on for about four days, but I love it so far. I love how the sides lock into the rails when you snap it down in the back, making it almost impossible to get into the bed when the tailgate is shut and locked. I love how you can even put up to 400 lbs of cargo onto the cover. I probably never will, but it is an option. We will see if it improves fuel mileage, but that isn&#8217;t much of a concern for me. One drawback is that it does not fold up as tight as a traditional soft roll-up tonneau cover. But for me, the added security makes up for that. I am delighted I went with this cover and can&#8217;t wait to start taking my new truck on some adventures.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image16-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3778" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image16-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image16-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image16-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image16-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image16-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">BAK Revolver X4 tonneau cover fully installed</figcaption></figure>

BAK Revolver X4 Tonneau Cover Install

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/desert-fj/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2011-FJ-Cruiser-Desert-FJ-David-Blurb-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3755" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2011-FJ-Cruiser-Desert-FJ-David-Blurb-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2011-FJ-Cruiser-Desert-FJ-David-Blurb-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2011-FJ-Cruiser-Desert-FJ-David-Blurb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2011-FJ-Cruiser-Desert-FJ-David-Blurb.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="http://revkit.com/desert-fj/">DAVID&#8217;S 2011 FJ CRUISER &#8220;SGT. SLAUGHTER&#8221;</a></h6>



Sgt. Slaughter is one of the best looking and most cohesive FJ builds we&#8217;ve seen on Revkit. While it’s definitely a head-turner, this FJ also has the off-road chops to back up its good looks.



Up front you’ll find King 2.5” remote reservoir front coilovers with secondary 2.5” triple-bypass shocks as well as Total Chaos upper and lower control arms with a mountain of supporting mods. Moving around back is a similar story with custom-built King 2.5” x 16&#8243; remote reservoir shocks and a King air bump stop kit to soak up the heavier hits.



A set of 17” bronze Fuel Zephyr wheels wrapped in 37” BFGoodrich KDR2+ tires sit at the corners with massive 6” flared fiberglass fenders that allow everything to articulate smoothly. David also added some armor to this rig in the form of an N-Fab PreRunner front bumper, a Body Armor rear bumper, All Pro Offroad rock sliders and Bud Built full-length skid-plates.



This build has excellent attention to detail with mods like the classic Land Cruiser-style badges on the tailgate, but to get the full scope you’ll need to check out <a href="https://revkit.com/desert-fj/">David’s REVKIT</a> page for yourself!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/slappypankake/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-SlappyPancake-Blurb-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3757" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-SlappyPancake-Blurb-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-SlappyPancake-Blurb-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-SlappyPancake-Blurb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-SlappyPancake-Blurb.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="http://revkit.com/slappypankake/">DANNY’S 2010 FJ CRUISER &#8220;SLAPPY PANKAKE&#8221;</a></h6>



Slappy Pankake is an ideal weekend warrior with some carefully selected mods to improve the look and off-road capability. It’s also rocking the somewhat uncommon 6-speed manual from factory which we always love to see.



Underneath this FJ you&#8217;ll find Radflo 2.5” coilovers and shocks with remote reservoirs as well as a Yukon rear locker and a set of 285/70R16 BFGoodrich KO2s to help with traction. Then jumping up top there’s a full-length Sherpa Fuji roof rack that houses an Extreme LED 42&#8243; slim light bar, but that’s only the beginning of the lighting mods on this rig. Anzo projector headlights and Baja Designs S2 chase lights provide better visibility on the trail while the KC Cyclones update the FJ’s dated looking mirror lights to match.



Make sure you drop by <a href="http://revkit.com/slappypankake/">Danny’s REVKIT</a> page to get even better look at this build!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/ipmfj/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2014-FJ-Cruiser-IPMFJ-Blurb-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3759" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2014-FJ-Cruiser-IPMFJ-Blurb-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2014-FJ-Cruiser-IPMFJ-Blurb-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2014-FJ-Cruiser-IPMFJ-Blurb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2014-FJ-Cruiser-IPMFJ-Blurb.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://revkit.com/ipmfj/">PAUL&#8217;S 2014 FJ CRUISER &#8220;IPMFJ&#8221;</a></h6>



The IPM FJ&#8217;s custom &#8220;Gambler Green&#8221; KMC wheels were the first thing that caught our eye, but I am happy to report that the rest of the upgrade list continues to impress.



The build is outfitted with a Camburg 3.5” long travel kit paired to 8” King 2.5” coilovers with triple bypass secondary shocks and matching King shocks in the rear. Also hiding beneath is a Timbren extended bump stop kit and Nitro 4.56 gears.



As previously mentioned, the IPM FJ is sitting on custom &#8220;Gambler Green&#8221; KMC Machete wheels wrapped in Dick Cepek Extreme Country 35/12.50R17 tires which creates a fantastic, rugged looking stance. Adding to the aggressive look is an IPM Fab front bumper and rock sliders alongside an Expedition One rear bumper with a tire carrier to support the full size 35” spare.



The mod list continues with upgrades such as PRP seats and Baja Designs lighting, but you’ll have to check out the <a href="https://revkit.com/ipmfj/">IPM FJ REVKIT</a> page to find out more.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/crapets-garage-fj/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-Crapets-Garage-Blurb-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3760" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-Crapets-Garage-Blurb-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-Crapets-Garage-Blurb-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-Crapets-Garage-Blurb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2010-FJ-Cruiser-Crapets-Garage-Blurb.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://revkit.com/crapets-garage-fj/">CRAPET’S GARAGE 2010 FJ CRUISER</a></h6>



The Crapet&#8217;s Garage FJ is a seemingly modest build from the outside, but it packs a punch with some well-chosen off-road mods that make it the perfect rig for exploring Alabama’s wilderness.



The build features a beefy Fab Fours front bumper housing an 8000 lb. winch while a Demello rear bumper provides some additional protection. They also made sure to keep the factory Toyota rock rails on this rig to help deflect rocks away from the doors.



For suspension, Crapets’ FJ is riding on a Total Chaos 2” Race Series long travel kit with 10” ORI STX nitrogen struts that net some additional ground clearance on the trail. This is paired with a set of 17” XD wheels and 33” Nitto Terra Grapplers to complete the look.



Take a peek at the <a href="https://revkit.com/crapets-garage-fj/">Crapet’s Garage FJ REVKIT</a> page if you want to see this rig in action!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/overland-fj-build/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2007-FJ-Cruiser-Noah-Overland-Build-Blurb-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3762" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2007-FJ-Cruiser-Noah-Overland-Build-Blurb-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2007-FJ-Cruiser-Noah-Overland-Build-Blurb-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2007-FJ-Cruiser-Noah-Overland-Build-Blurb-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2007-FJ-Cruiser-Noah-Overland-Build-Blurb.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://revkit.com/overland-fj-build/">NOAH&#8217;S 2007 FJ CRUISER OVERLAND BUILD</a></h6>



This FJ was built to work double duty as both a reliable daily driver and an overland rig for exploring the Arizona back-country on weekends.



A simple Bilstein 5100 kit provides a bump in ride height alongside a set of 33&#8243; BFGoodrich KO2s wrapped around 16” SCS F5 wheels for a no-frills, utilitarian look. The build also features a custom built high-clearance front bumper and factory Toyota rock rails to help protect the body work when things get hairy on the trail.



Up top a Baja Rack flat utility rack supports the FSR High-Country 55” tent allowing for a good night&#8217;s rest away from home. Mounted at the front of that rack is a 40” Baja Designs LED light bar and tucked in the back corners you’ll find Baja Designs S2s to provide area lighting that makes setting up camp at night a little less tricky.



Swing by <a href="https://revkit.com/overland-fj-build/">Noah’s REVKIT</a> page for all the details on this overland build!

5 Killer FJ Cruiser Builds

When most people think of going to Disney, they think of Disney World in Florida or DisneyLand in California. But when you are a Jeeper or off-roader and thinking about going to Disney, you usually talk about a little town in Northeastern Oklahoma next to Grand Lake.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7465-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3727" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7465-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7465-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7465-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7465-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7465-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Plenty of water crossings at Disney</figcaption></figure>







Mike brought the&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/partywagon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PartyWagon</a>&nbsp;down from Colorado for some Oklahoma fun. Disney isn&#8217;t a huge off-road area, but it is unique with the type of terrain it offers.&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/ridinlj/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ridinlj</a>&nbsp;has been to Disney a handful of times, so he was going to show the PartyWagon around the area and what it offers. Unfortunately, we couldn&#8217;t get anyone else to join us because it was Mother&#8217;s Day weekend.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3728" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Partywagon going up optional line on the Waterfall </figcaption></figure>







We decided to start a little later in the day as we woke up to it raining outside. Thankfully, some of the primary and most known obstacles dry out quickly. So we decided to meet around 11 am. By then, most clouds had disappeared, and the sun was starting to shine. Our CTO agreed to join us on the trip but had to catch a flight, so we knew when to get him back to his rental car.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7388-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3729" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7388-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7388-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7388-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7388-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7388-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Partywagon in front of one of the Dam Spillways</figcaption></figure>







Disney, OK, is unique because some main obstacles are in the Grand Lake Dam spillway. When you explore the area, you will see different spillway sections. During times of lots of water, when they have the spillway open, this causes everything to be washed away and leaves large areas of rocks for us to play on. Since we had a timeline, we decided to head to the farthest part of the rocks and work our way back to where we parked.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="588" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shared18-588x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3730" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shared18-588x1024.jpg 588w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shared18-172x300.jpg 172w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shared18-768x1338.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shared18-881x1536.jpg 881w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shared18-1175x2048.jpg 1175w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/shared18.jpg 1290w" sizes="(max-width: 588px) 100vw, 588px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ridinlj crossing another section of water</figcaption></figure>







As we made our way to Lil Blue, we decided to go ahead and play on the waterfall. Waterfall has a couple of different option lines: the classic one is where the water is flowing, and one is to the right of it. The standard line was pretty slick from moss and water, and the Jeep didn&#8217;t want to climb, so I decided to do the optional line to the right. PartyWagon doesn&#8217;t like water a whole lot so he didn&#8217;t mess with the main line and followed on the right line.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7264-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3731" width="650" height="433" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7264-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7264-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7264-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7264-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7264-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Partywagon watching ridinlj going through Lil Blue</figcaption></figure>







After finishing the obstacle, we swung back around and checked out Viagra Hill and Cialis. Some of the most famous obstacles in Disney. If you want some excellent entertainment, head to YouTube and search Viagra Hill Disney, OK.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7286-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3732" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7286-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7286-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7286-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7286-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7286-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Going up the last section of Lil Blue</figcaption></figure>







Now we headed over to Lil Blue. Currently, the water level is very low at Disney. The first time I ran it, there were probably a couple of feet running down the obstacle, but today, barely a trickle. I started the main line a little too high on the passenger side and walked up the line after adjusting. PartyWagon followed and walked it like it was nothing.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney3-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3733" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney3-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney3-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/disney3-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Entrance to Lil Blue</figcaption></figure>







The spillways create many fantastic posing shots, and after running Lil Blue, that is exactly what we did. Then, after playing around on a few ledges and getting those glamour shots, we decided to head over to the rock garden and staircases. Mike agreed to let Matt drive as we headed that way.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7363-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3734" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7363-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7363-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7363-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7363-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7363-2048x1366.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>







What I love about the rock garden and staircase area is there is no one line to try; you can try and make it up anything you want to put tires on. After struggling, I decided to back down and hit a more manageable line. Unfortunately, the&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/partywagon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PartyWagon&nbsp;</a>had hit a different line and was already on the top. Once I got up, he decided to try the same line I was trying. This is where it all went sideways. After PartyWagon got a little sideways, he tried it again and hit it a little harder. That&#8217;s when the clanking started to happen.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7506-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3735" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7506-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7506-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7506-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7506-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7506-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wide open spaces at Disney</figcaption></figure>







No one knew precisely what happened, as no hanging parts were under the Jeep. But when Mike tried to put it in reverse, it acted like something was locked up in the transmission or transfer case and would not budge. He tried to move forward, and we all heard awful clanking noises. I pulled my LJ behind and hooked up the WARN synthetic winch rope and Factor 55 Flatlink Pro to the rear of Mike&#8217;s LJ to drag him down off the obstacle so we could evaluate the issue. Once we had the LJ down on the flat ground, it was time to figure out what had happened.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7289-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3739" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7289-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7289-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7289-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7289-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7289-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>







The Jeep still wouldn&#8217;t go in reverse. We would drag the LJ slightly to get the transfer case out of gear and into neutral. The vehicle still wouldn&#8217;t move properly, so we decided to jack the rear up with our Badlands jack to see if we could twist the rear driveshaft, but still nothing. After unlocking the front hubs and doing a little swearing, we decided to go ahead and pull the rear driveshaft off at the rear axle. After swearing at whoever used a bunch of Loctite on the U-bolt nuts, we finally got each one off. It was a tag team between Mike, Matt, and myself to get those off. Before we took it off, I had Mike get into the Jeep and make sure he had his foot on the brake for when I pulled the u-joint off the yoke. And I am glad I did. The whole Jeep shifted, validating that something went wrong in the transfer case.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7500-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3738" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7500-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7500-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7500-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7500-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_7500-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Right before the carnage</figcaption></figure>







Mike had been complaining about the transfer case not staying in gear correctly, and we were all pretty sure why that was. When writing this, Mike had dropped the transfer case off at Core Off-Road for them to take apart—and yep, total failure of the Midnight Metalworks Dana 300 transfer case. A snap ring was not installed correctly, causing the shifter to keep popping out of gear. That piece slid back just far enough to catch some gears and shred them apart. From what we can tell so far, the case is also toast. Time will tell if Midnight Metalworks will do anything. But we were all heartbroken after the break. We had planned on going to Rugged Mountain Ranch on Sunday. We will have to make another trip once the&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/partywagon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PartyWagon&nbsp;</a>gets back together.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/70613254679__96C90F5D-1706-492E-9229-C29E31142E87-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3736" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/70613254679__96C90F5D-1706-492E-9229-C29E31142E87-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/70613254679__96C90F5D-1706-492E-9229-C29E31142E87-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/70613254679__96C90F5D-1706-492E-9229-C29E31142E87-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/70613254679__96C90F5D-1706-492E-9229-C29E31142E87.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Part of the Transfer Case that broke on Partywagon</figcaption></figure>







Even if the weekend was cut short and we could not make it to Rugged Mountain Ranch, I still had a fun time. A bad day of wheeling is still better than the best day of work.

Heartbreak in Disney

One day, while scrolling through the Motobilt website, I stumbled upon their Heavy Duty Trailer Fender Kit and knew I had to get a set. But why did I need new trailer fenders? That goes back to about nine years ago when I bought my trailer.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image21-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3695" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image21-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image21-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image21-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image21-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image21-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Old driver side fender</figcaption></figure>







When I originally bought my trailer, I only knew a little about trailers other than that I wanted larger axles and brakes on each axle. So I bought a full steel deck with 5200lb axles and brakes on each axle. My Jeep fit in between the fenders, and I had zero issues at the time. I may have heard about drive-over fenders, but it was definitely not something I was thinking about when I purchased the trailer.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image19-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3696" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image19-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image19-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image19-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image19-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image19-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Getting the trailer cleaned up and test fitting the fenders</figcaption></figure>







Fast forward to 2018, when I added new axles and moved up to 40s; after setting up the Jeep with the new axles and 40s, my friend Bob and I realized the Jeep was about 2 inches wider than the width between the fenders on the trailer. I knew I would have to do something down the road.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092455-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3697" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092455-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092455-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092455-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092455-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092455-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Beautiful welds </figcaption></figure>







Over the years since going 40s, I have used different pieces to help drive over the stock fenders. These never worked very well, and over the years, I had slowly destroyed the fenders. I eventually destroyed the passenger side so much that I decided to cut it off completely.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092835-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3698" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092835-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092835-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092835-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092835-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230224_092835-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ditch Digger laying down dimes</figcaption></figure>







Once I saw the Motobilt Heavy Duty Fender Kit, I knew I needed them and ordered them. They came quickly, as I had ordered the bumper simultaneously, and it came via freight. Once they came in, the first step was to call Ditch Digger to warm up the welder and get to burning.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image15-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3699" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image15-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image15-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image15-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image15-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image15-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Getting the passenger side lined up and tack welded. </figcaption></figure>







I dropped off the fender kit and let Trevor weld up the fender kit and get them ready for me to get them installed on the trailer. Ditch Digger loves firing up his Tig welder, and he got the pieces welded together. Now it was time to clean up the trailer and get it ready to weld the fenders to the trailer.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image12-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3700" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image12-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image12-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image12-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image12-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image12-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Having to clean up the edges to create a clean welding surface</figcaption></figure>







The old fenders were fairly easy to remove, as I had destroyed them over the years. The hardest part was getting all the small welds cut off and grinding down pieces to make the fender as flat and clean as possible to create a good welding surface.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image7-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3701" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image7-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image7-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image7-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image7-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image7-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Center bolt works great to help line up the new fender</figcaption></figure>







Now that the fenders are welded together, they are relatively heavy, so moving them around yourself is a pain in the ass. I did most of it by myself, but I recommend having an extra hand to make it easier to move around and to get the fenders set up easier.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image5-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3702" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image5-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image5-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image5-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image5-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image5-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Driver side welded up and ready.</figcaption></figure>







I used a couple of items to set the fenders up where I wanted them to, but massive clamps are the easiest way to get them in the correct position. One thing I noticed right away when I was positioning the fender was the middle piece with the Motobilt fender lined up perfectly with the center bolt connecting the two leaf springs. This made it easier to get lined up. I just had to test how high I needed to ensure the tires cleared.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image8-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3709" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image8-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image8-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image8-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image8-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image8-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My welds vs Trevor&#8217;s welds. </figcaption></figure>







Fenders are in the right location and time to start tac welding and double-check everything. I checked how level it was going in one direction but not the other, so they are tilted in just a little bit, but overall they are where they needed to be.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image0-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3704" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image0-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image0-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image0-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image0-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image0-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">All welded and painted</figcaption></figure>







I could be a better welder, but I have been learning. After talking with Trevor and Bob, I finally found a good setting on the welder to get the fenders welded up. I did the passenger side first as my practice side, and once it was done, I moved on to the driver&#8217;s side. Looking at most trailer fenders, you will notice that they do not weld the whole piece to the trailer. They do short passes, but that is not what I wanted to do with the Motobilt kit. I went ahead and welded the whole side on the top and the bottom to ensure nothing would ever come apart. I know it is overkill, but it was worth it to me.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image2-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3705" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image2-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image2-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image2-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image2-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/image2-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Finished the trailer right before the rain really started to come down</figcaption></figure>







Now that I had each side welded up, it was time for paint. After doing some cleaning of the fenders, it was time to start. Always clean the metal before you begin painting to make sure it is a good clean surface for the paint to stick. Knowing that I would be driving over the fenders every time, I went ahead and just used spray paint. Maybe one day, I will get the whole trailer repainted by a body shop. But for now, the fenders look great, and I can&#8217;t wait to use them.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_2653-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3706" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_2653-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_2653-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_2653-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_2653-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/IMG_2653-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jeep looks great with the new fenders</figcaption></figure>







If you are on the fence, go ahead and jump off and buy them. Your trailer will thank you. Remember, It&#8217;s Not Bilt Until It&#8217;s Motobilt.&nbsp;

Motobilt Heavy Duty Trailer Fender Kit

The Toyota 4-Runner is one of the toughest SUVs in the market. Its substantial body-on-frame design and off-road features give it legit trail capability and support its outdoor-oriented rep. There’s no doubt it’s a popular truck for everything from daily driving to overlanding to weekend mud fests. Here are a few of our favorite builds. These folks took an already-capable SUV and made it even better, and more importantly, made it their own.



<a href="https://revkit.com/dnvr-4runner/">DNVR.4runner</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/dnvr-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3575" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/dnvr-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/dnvr-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/dnvr-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/dnvr.jpg 1170w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Owner @Jordan Montera answers the call of the wild with this 2016. Hailing from Colorado, he took the stock engine and lets it breathe that clean mountain air with an Airaid cold-air intake and Flowmaster FX exhaust. He then re-geared it with Nitro 4.88 gears and added an ARB rear air locker for when things get spicy in the hills. That regearing help spin the 33-inch Goodyear DuraTracs on the Stealth Custom Series Ray10 17-inch wheels in the classic bronze color. It looks so clean with the white paint.



This 4-Runner sits atop a 2.5-inch lift with King suspension. SPC upper control arms and Toytec SuperFlex Rear Springs keep things in check when crawling or loaded up.



On the exterior, Baja Design supplies the fog lighting cleanly integrated with Lil B’s front bumper with a bull bar that just looks mean. We think it really complements the Morimoto headlights for a really tight front end. RSG sliders and front skid plate protect the undercarriage from poor line choices.



Rounding out the build is an Uptop Overland Bravo roof rack to haul all the gear to camp and Eagle Eye taillights. It’s a great-looking build that’s perfect for long days in the backcountry.



<a href="https://revkit.com/j_4runner/">J_4Runner</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/J4-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3576" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/J4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/J4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/J4-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/J4.jpg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



What is it about Colorado and 4-Runners? This 2006 Sr5 puts in work from the red canyons of Moab to the aspen-covered highlands of the mountains. Sitting on a 1-inch lift with ICON 2.5 Series coilovers and Total Chaos upper control arms, this SUV rocks 33-inch BF Goodrich KO2 tires, a classic choice for Colorado trails. They don’t call them the Rocky Mountains for nothing, so the RCI skid plate is a must.



Extreme LED pods light the way, and a Smittybuilt OverLander tent and ARB Awning act as a home away from home when out in the wilds.



<a href="https://revkit.com/trd-mecha-godzilla/">TRD Mechagodzilla</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="575" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mecha-1024x575.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3574" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mecha-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mecha-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mecha-768x431.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mecha.jpg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



This 2018 TRD Off Road Premium comes to us from Illinois. The AlphaEquipt snorkel with a K&amp;N filter, along with the TRD Pro exhaust gives the stock engine gets some extra lung capacity and boosts its performance.



To tackle that Midwest mud, Mechagodzilla rolls on 33-inch mud-terrain BFG KM3s on sexy, 17-inch SCS Ray10 wheels. Sure, they look good, but more importantly, they get the job done in any conditions. A 3-inch lift with ICON DJ upper control arms gives her true rock-crawling capability as well. And, when out among the rocks, the Victory front and rear bumpers and SSO sliders offer up a little protection from the inevitable bumps and bruises. If those bumps get really bad, the Warn winch is always there – to pull others out.



The one-of-a-kind exterior wrap is always a nice touch, and rounding out the build is spotlighting by Diode Dynamics and headlights by Alpharex, and taillights by Anzo. It’s clear that the owner, @Joseph Cameron gets after it, and for that, we salute him.



<a href="https://revkit.com/feral-pig/">Feral Pig</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="578" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/feral-1024x578.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3577" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/feral-1024x578.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/feral-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/feral-768x433.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/feral.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



East Coast wheelers are a different breed. If this Tennessee truck’s name didn’t catch your attention, the build certainly wouldn’t fail. This 2015 Limited is sick. The 4.0-liter V6 rocks an ARB Safari snorkel with a K&amp;N filter and a high-clearance Flowmaster exhaust. And, judging by the water crossings owner @Josh Bratcher does, it’s a good thing he’s got it.



And Josh has clearly done his homework. One often overlooked mod is a diff breather. Off-roading generates a lot of heat due to your gears&#8217; constant movement. That heat creates pressure inside your housing that can lead to blown axle seals. Stock breathers are usually low to the ground. They get clogged with mud and grit and can trap gear oil. The installed ARB breather kit protects your differentials, transfer case, and transmission. Well done, Josh.



The drivetrain consists of Yukon axles and 4.88 gears, along with ARB front and rear air lockers. Nothing on the suspension was left stock. Dobinson handles the coils, struts, panhard bar, rear trailing arms, rear control arm, and a diff-drop kit. JBA handles the upper control arms, and the Feral Pig removed its front and rear sway bars for maximum articulation and better bump absorption on washboarded roads. All that easily controls the bronze Method Race wheels and 37-inch Maxxis RAZR tires.



The complete underbelly is protected by CBI with full skid plates, rock sliders, and fuel and washer tank plates. And perhaps one of the coolest mods we’ve seen, is the Velox Offroad Gullwing windows that let you access the gear in the back without opening the rear tailgate and door. Genius.



There’s almost too much to mention on the exterior, where almost nothing was left untouched. Baja Designs does some heavy lifting on exterior accessory lighting and Morimoto tackles the head and taillights. The Warn winch teams up with Factor 55 for winching duties.



Feral Pig is one of the most well-thought-out builds we’ve seen. If we were giving out awards, the Pig would be top in the running. It’s not only badass looking, but it’s utterly capable and ready for anything that comes its way.



<a href="https://revkit.com/t-quattro-r/">T-Quattro-R</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="578" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/quattro-1024x578.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3578" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/quattro-1024x578.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/quattro-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/quattro-768x434.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/quattro.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



One look at this 5th-gen T-Quattro-R and the monster 43-inch wheels jump out. They’re 17-inch Raceline wheels powder coated blue wrapped with Sticky Mickeys. Heavy-duty Crane axles and 5.38 gearing were needed for the build. ARB front and rear lockers and an Atlas 4-speed transfer case are perfect for those who enjoy conquering diverse terrain with one truck. It gives you a single option whether you’re slowly rock crawling or mudding at speed. There is nothing this thing can’t climb, and no river it couldn’t ford.



To power that oversized rubber, owner @Jason Varelli took the stock engine and gave it extra power with a Whipple 2.3L supercharger with a custom intake and exhaust. He’s either very talented at fabrication or has some good friends that are because the truck has extensive modifications. There’s an internal roll cage, the frame’s been stiffened up, the engine has been lifted by three inches, and even the batteries, gas tank, fuel pickup, filter, and fuse box have been relocated. It’s also got full custom skid plates and Jason likes to brag that not a single stock crossmember is left!



The T-Quattro-R is no doubt a ton of fun to drive, keep an eye out for it when in North Carolina.

Five Epic 4-Runner Builds

Changing out the front bumper on your Jeep, Ford, Toyota, or any other off-road vehicle is sometimes one of the very first items you replace when modifying your vehicle. And there is good reason for that. We will explore why you would do that and why I chose what I chose.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image13-1-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3588" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image13-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image13-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image13-1-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image13-1-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image13-1-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">How the bumper is shipped</figcaption></figure>







Motobilt was founded in 2012 by&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/dansjt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dan (dansjt)</a>, and he was not new to the offroading world. I&#8217;ve been searching for a new front bumper for years, and I kept going back to Motobilt and looking at their Crusher series front bumpers. Motobilt makes about five versions of the <a href="https://motobilt.com/collections/jeep-lj-04-06?filter.v.price.gte=&amp;filter.v.price.lte=&amp;filter.p.product_type=Bumper&amp;sort_by=best-selling&amp;view=grid&amp;view=collection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crusher series front bumper</a> for the LJ, and I chose the<a href="https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/front-bumpers/mb1069-l-b-motobilt-front-bumper-w-grill-hoop-and-bull-bar-bare-steel?utm_source=REVKIT&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=REVKIT%20Launch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Crusher Series Front Bumper W/Grill Hoop &amp; Bull Bar</a>.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image12-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3589" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image12-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image12-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image12-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image12-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image12-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Making sure bolts line up and everything clears.</figcaption></figure>







But why did I choose that one? Couple main reasons I loved this one was due to the grill hoop and bull bar, and I just liked how it looked. I&#8217;ve been around a handful of rollovers and noticed that anytime someone has a front bumper with a grill hoop, it has always helped keep the grill and hood from completely getting destroyed. Some might ask why that is important. The biggest reason is if you are ever in a rollover where your grill and or hood might be damaged, having something protect it will protect everything under the hood at the same time. In addition, a grill hoop will help keep you going or at least help you get off the trail easier.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image10-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3590" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image10-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image10-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image10-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image10-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image10-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Add the WARN winch to make sure it clears everything</figcaption></figure>







Installing a bumper by yourself can be daunting, but you shouldn&#8217;t worry too much; take it slow and pay attention to details. Adding a winch on top of it can really make someone nervous, but installing a winch can be very simple. Installation of a bumper and winch is universal across all types of vehicles; some are easier, and some are a little more challenging. But when it comes down to it, you unbolt the old one and bolt the new one on.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image6-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3591" width="650" height="866" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image6-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image6-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image6-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image6-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image6-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Couple of the bolts you have to install </figcaption></figure>







When it comes to a 97-06 TJ or 04-06 LJ, there are eight bolts you will need to remove to get the stock bumper or other different bumper off. Before I installed the Motobilt bumper, I had an old Poison Spyder bumper with a winch plate. In case you don&#8217;t know what a winch plate is, not all bumpers are designed to have winches attached to them. In that case, a winch plate is needed. This is common with the steel Jeep bumper package on Jeep JKs and Jeep JLs. They are only winch capable once you add the winch plate. But back to the bolts. Six bolts up top, three on each side and two underneath.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image11-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3592" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image11-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image11-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image11-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image11-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image11-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Welding nuts onto the bolts to get them out.</figcaption></figure>







After removing the old bumper and winch, the hardest part of the job was going the winch off the winch plate. This particular winch is a <a href="https://www.northridge4x4.com/search?q=warn%20winch&amp;hPP=21&amp;idx=products&amp;p=0&amp;dFR%5BBrand%5D%5B0%5D=Warn&amp;nR%5Bdefault_price%5D%5B%3E%3D%5D%5B0%5D=427&amp;utm_source=REVKIT&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=REVKIT%20Launch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WARN XD9000i</a> that was offered by MOPAR way back when. The dealership installed it in 2005, and has never been removed from the Jeep until this install. Each winch is held on by four bolts from underneath, and 2 of them came off quickly, but two did not. I had to weld nuts onto the bolts to get them to come off. This is mainly due to the fact that it was installed 17+ years ago. I finally got them out so I could start to mock up the new bumper and winch to ensure everything fits.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image9-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3593" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image9-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image9-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image9-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image9-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image9-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bumper is painted. Good from afar, but far from good. </figcaption></figure>







I did a quick mock-up before I painted to ensure everything lined up as it should. And it made no surprise that everything did. Painting is where everyone is going to go a different route. I am known to drive by braille when I am offroad, so I decided to go ahead and just use spray paint to paint the bumper. Powder coating is a great option; the only thing I don&#8217;t like is if you scratch off a piece, it&#8217;s harder to cover it up. And depending on what you want, you can even have a shop put something like Line-X on the bumper. This option will make the bumper heavier but hold up to rocks and mud better than powder coating. I like to use spray paint because I know I am going to scratch it, and I can easily touch it up at any time I want.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image7-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3594" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image7-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image7-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image7-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image7-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image7-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Two bolts installed, two more to go</figcaption></figure>







Now that the bumper is painted and ready, it&#8217;s time to install the winch. For some vehicles, you can install the bumper first, and then you can install the winch. But when it came to this bumper and this Jeep, that is not something you can do. You have to install the winch onto the bumper. Getting the WARN winch onto the bumper by yourself can be tricky, but I got it done.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image8-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3595" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image8-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image8-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image8-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image8-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image8-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Winch installed, along with the fairlead and light bar</figcaption></figure>







I thought I could lift the bumper with the winch up to the Jeep by myself, but alas, I am not that strong, so I hired my wife to help me get the bumper onto the Jeep. Now that the bumper is sitting on the frame rails, it&#8217;s time to install all the bolts to ensure it doesn&#8217;t go anywhere. Now if you have never installed a winch, there is nothing to worry about or fear. Once it is attached to the Jeep, all you need to do is install the red wire to the positive and the black wire to the negative. Most winches come fairly ready to bolt on when you get them.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="576" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image3-576x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3600" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image3-576x1024.jpeg 576w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image3-169x300.jpeg 169w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image3-768x1365.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image3-864x1536.jpeg 864w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image3-1152x2048.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image3-scaled.jpeg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The power cables that need to be hooked up to the battery</figcaption></figure>







One modification I made to my battery years ago was replacing the primary terminals with multiple hookups. I, unfortunately, do not have the room under the hood to mount a dual battery system, so I needed to add the multiple-slot battery terminals to make hooking up accessories easier. This makes installing your winch easier as you don&#8217;t have to remove all the accessories you have tied into your battery. Now that the power cables are connected, grab your winch remote and make sure it works. Another quick modification I had to make was to my WARN winch rope thimble. It was a little wide for the <a href="https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/hooks/00080-06-factor-55-flatlink-e-grey?utm_source=REVKIT&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=REVKIT%20Launch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Factor 55 Flatlink-E</a>, and the flatlink would not move properly. I used a vise to pinch the thimble&#8217;s end and ensured it fit into the flatlink freely.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-1-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3601" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-1-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Factor 55 Flatlink hooked up and ready</figcaption></figure>







Now that I have the bumper and winch installed, I double-checked all bolts and ensured the winch worked as it should and the light bar was also working after plugging it in. Another advantage of this type of bumper vs. having a winch plate is the bumper allows the winch to be lower down. I was able to drop the winch lower by close to 2 inches. When you have a V8 where it isn&#8217;t supposed to be, any additional airflow will help. Anytime you install a new part you are unsure about, take your time, keep an inventory of what you remove, and have fun. No need to stress, and if you need to, call in a friend and share a couple of sodas or wheat sodas to get the job done. Now time to pick your favorite Motobilt bumper and install it on your rig.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-21-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3614" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-21-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-21-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-21-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-21-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image0-21-2048x1152.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You can see where the winch use to rub the grill. </figcaption></figure>















Remember, It&#8217;s Not Built, Until It&#8217;s Motobilt.

Jeep TJ/LJ Motobilt Crusher Front Bumper Install

Everyone has an opinion on what “overlanding” is. It’s an activity that is hard to really pin down. Is it glorified car camping? Is it crossing international boundaries? Is it going remote for an extended period of time? Perhaps the best thing about Overlanding is that it can be whatever you want it to be.



Here are REVKIT’s top 5 overland builds to give you a little inspiration for your next expedition.



<a href="https://revkit.com/jk-overland-build/">JK Overland Build</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/jkoverland-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3556" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/jkoverland-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/jkoverland-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/jkoverland-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/jkoverland.jpg 1149w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Jeep JK is obviously a popular platform for all flavors of off-road shenanigans. This 2013 JK Sport is a budget-minded build, with a focus on functionality, but don’t let that fool you. This thing is fully capable of serious off-road action with plenty of money left over for actually getting out and enjoying it.



This thing starts off with a 1.5-inch Terraflex lift with Falcon 2.1 shocks. To enhance articulation, the JK sports a set of Teraflex Quick Disconnect Sway Bar Links. When the trail turns nasty, the links easily disconnect and swing up out of the way for unrestricted flex. When back on the street, quickly connect them for immediate reaction during sway bar loading to eliminate excess play.



Handling traction duties are 17-inch Pro Comp wheels wrapped with 33-inch AMP Terrain Pro tires. A good choice for long wear in demanding conditions, perfect for extended overlanding or daily driving and playing on the weekend.



Overlanding is all about being self-sufficient. To that end, this JK rocks an XRC Gen II winch bolted to a beefy Smittybuilt front bumper. It’s got the Rubicon rock sliders and oil pan skid plate to keep them out of trouble. All in all, it’s a solid build tailor-made for fun in the backcountry.



<a href="https://revkit.com/adventure-ovrlnd-taco/">Adventureland Taco</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="575" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/adventuretaco-1024x575.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3557" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/adventuretaco-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/adventuretaco-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/adventuretaco-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/adventuretaco.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Toyota Tacoma is another great platform for overlanding. Its stock build starts pretty darn capable and works as a blank slate to truly make your own. This 3rd-generation Tacoma takes the stock engine and re-gears it with 5.29s from the masters at Nitro. This easily powers the 305/70R16 Falken Wildpeak ATW3 tires on Method Race wheels. The whole thing sits on an ICON Vehicle Dynamics Stage 9 lift to take them places stock trucks couldn’t reach.



CBI Offroad supplies the skid plates and armoring, with their bumpers both front and rear offering protection and serving as the perfect mounting spot for a Smittybuilt winch and RIGID lights.



Add in a rear seat delete for the ARB fridge, a Tepui roof-top tent, and Rotopax containers, and you have yourself a vehicle purpose-built spending plenty of time outside. The custom wrap is a nice touch, too.



<a href="https://revkit.com/krawler-jt/">Krawler JT</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="575" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/krawler-1024x575.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3558" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/krawler-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/krawler-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/krawler-768x431.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/krawler.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



For many people, the Gladiator is the perfect overland platform, striking the perfect balance of legendary Jeep ruggedness and quality with truly epic cargo and towing capacity. There isn’t much on this 2020 Jeep Gladiator JT Rubicon that hasn’t been upgraded. Whether going to Moab for the weekend or driving across Africa, this machine is ready, willing and able. The stock 3.6-liter V6 is controlled by a Tazer Mini, it controls the Jeep’s electronics to optimize performance after tweaking things like your tire size, suspension, and gearing.



As we said, no stone was left unturned on this. Adams driveshafts, front and rear, Dynatrac Elite axles with ARB lockers, all sitting on a 4.5-inch Evo lift with Fox shocks. The whole thing sits on massive 40-inch Mickey Thompson tires wrapped around Black Rhino bead locks. To power those huge wheels, the Krawler was regeared with 5.38s. A whole host of the best-of-the-best in lighting illuminates the trail ahead and the area around this JT, like Baja Designs, DC Designs, and Nacho Offroad.



It’s obviously capable of calling almost anywhere home, and once you’re there, it’s the perfect basecamp. It’s equipped with a GoMammut roof-top tent and shower cube, a huge ARB fridge and awning, and even a 13-gallon water tank with a water heater! It’s safe to say that the Krawler JT does overlanding right.



<a href="https://revkit.com/canine-overland/">Canine Overland</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="578" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/canine-1024x578.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3555" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/canine-1024x578.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/canine-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/canine-768x434.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/canine.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



This 2005 Grand Cherokee is dialed in. It looks mean, but most importantly can back up its bark. The 4.7-liter engine benefits from a Superchips tuner that improves horsepower, torque, and overall performance. It breathes in with a 100 Series snorkel and Ripp intake and filter and breathes out with a Flowmaster Outlaw Catback exhaust. You can almost hear the rumble it makes clawing it way up the trail.



This Cherokee WK rolls on sexy Method Racing Vex wheels with Falken AT3W tires sitting on Bilstein 5100s. Old Man Emu supplies an extra two inches of lift, and to handle that extra height, @Johnny Tran, Canine’s owner, upgraded the upper and lower control arms as well to handle off-road action while loaded up with all the gear and toys one likes to have when out in nature. The entire underbelly is protected with skid plates from ASFIR and Goliath in case things get spicy out there.



Overlanding means you’re bringing everything with you, so this Jeep rocks a Rola rack loaded up with a Hi-Lift jack, Maxtrax boards, Rotopax containers, extra gear boxes, and of course an awning from Roam Adventure. And illuminating the way after dark is a host of lighting from serious players in the industry like Baja Designs, KC, and Morimoto.



<a href="https://revkit.com/lj70-trailbreaker/">LJ70 Trailbreaker</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="575" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/LJ-1024x575.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3559" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/LJ-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/LJ-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/LJ-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/LJ.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



OK, here’s one you won’t see every day, as they were not sold in North America, Trailbreaker calls Italy home. This is a 1987 Toyota Land Cruiser LJ70 that’s powered by a 2.4-liter turbodiesel. These classic Land Cruisers are known as much for their capability and dependability, as well as their off-road adventures and rugged work applications. Its reputation for reliability and durability has made it a lusted-after truck for decades, especially here in the U.S., where you’ll only find imports.



This two-door machine SUV has a super-short wheelbase. And with racing suspension, custom heavy-duty springs and rods, and a Toughdog RTC steering stabilizer, this nimble can probably get to places and climb things that longer vehicles couldn’t. ARB lockers front and rear certainly don’t hurt there.



The interior is mostly utilitarian, with rubber floors, manual windows, no A/C, and a cool inclinometer/altimeter gauge cluster. Nice upgrades bring it into the modern era with a Sony 7-inch touchscreen SAAS gauges and a Kenwood amp. A backseat delete houses custom drawers and a fridge.



On the exterior, you’ve got a winch, ladder, and a good variety of accessory lighting. The roof rack carries traction boards, a jack, gearboxes, an ARB awning, and solar panels. It’s even carried a full rooftop tent. No doubt, this thing turns heads on the trail or at basecamp.

Five Must-See Overland Builds

I have broken many parts over the years, but nothing like what I broke during the 2023 Winter 4&#215;4 Jamboree in Sand Hollow just outside Hurricane, UT. This time was a lot different than most times I have broken something. I wasn&#8217;t sure I could drive the Jeep back to our rented condo. Every other time I have broken something, I have been able to make it to the trailer or home without too much fuss, but this was different.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1993-1-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3518" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1993-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1993-1-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1993-1-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1993-1-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1993-1-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Only took a minute to pull the mount off the frame.</figcaption></figure>



So what happened? What&#8217;s crazy is I didn&#8217;t do anything out of this world to notice I was having an issue. But what really happened was a lot of abuse and not noticing that the frame had started to crack. Looking back, there were some signs, but when wheeling all day, sometimes you ignore small signs and keep going.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1994-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3519" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1994-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1994-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1994-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1994-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_1994-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Frame itself tore vs a weld failing</figcaption></figure>



We were running the famous Maze trail in Sand Hollow as a group. Shortly after making sure&nbsp;<a href="http://el-chingon-lj" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El-Chingo-LJ</a>&nbsp;and his LJ were okay after he rolled it, the group started out of the Maze. The Gazelle had hopped in with me as we were going to be driving a little faster as we began to head back home. Soon after we headed out, going over some small boulders, I noticed something was wrong. I turned to the Gazelle and told him, &#8220;Something isn&#8217;t right with the steering.&#8221; Now if it&#8217;s a sunny day and 80 degrees outside, we take it easy and get home. But it was getting late, and watching the sun go down while it started to snow.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AQZY3858-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3520" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AQZY3858-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AQZY3858-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AQZY3858-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AQZY3858-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AQZY3858.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Started adding extra material to the frame to make it stronger.</figcaption></figure>



I didn&#8217;t know how bad it was due to it getting dark and being unable to see anything very well. It worked out to my advantage, and I decided to keep trucking and get the Jeep home. We all knew where we were but needed to be 100% sure. After gunning it up a big sand hill praying nothing would give out, we finally knew exactly where we were. Everyone knew I was having issues, so they went off playing in the snow and sand as Matt and I took it slow as I tried not to show that I was stressed out. There is nothing like hearing roaring V8s playing in the sand and snow and wishing you could do the same thing.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230130_135141-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3522" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230130_135141-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230130_135141-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230130_135141-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230130_135141-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230130_135141-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Frame has all new material welded and ready for new Genright Track bar bracket to get fitted</figcaption></figure>



Once we returned to the main parking lot, we could take out some flashlights and truly see what was happening, and holy s%&amp;!, that could have been very bad. Thankfully the condo was not that far away, and I had enough steering to limp it back. Dan and Mike followed as we cruised ten mph back to the condo. When we returned, I left the Jeep behind my truck and trailer to pull it onto the trailer the following day.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_133624-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3523" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_133624-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_133624-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_133624-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_133624-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_133624-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Adding gussets to the track bar mount to add strength </figcaption></figure>



Quick shout out to a friend. I had posted on my social media that I broke the LJ, and he immediately texted to see if he needed to send anything to me. Thank you, Jeff. If you need Genright Off-road parts, you call him. Also, check him out at&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/jperks87/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPERKS87</a>.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_135512-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3527" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_135512-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_135512-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_135512-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_135512-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/20230131_135512-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



So now what? How am I going to fix this mess? Of course, stuff breaks, but seeing the frame rip as it did is less common than seeing a weld break. My first call on my way home was to my friend&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/ditch-digger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ditch Digger</a>. He has helped me in the past when working on the Jeep. Once I got home, I took the Jeep over to his shop and dropped it off. The next step was to call Jeff at Genright and order their frame side track bar mount.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="http://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2019-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3521" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2019-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2019-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2019-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2019-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2019-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">You can tell the Summit Machine joint is a little bit bigger than the old one.</figcaption></figure>



So how do you fix a torn frame? Thankfully, Trevor has some thick square tubing around his shop that he cut up and started replicating the frame and reinforcing the inside piece that was still there while reboxing the frame. Trevor took his time and did a great job ensuring everything was welded up nicely so I couldn&#8217;t break it again. Once I got the mount from Genright, I knew I needed to change the track bar joint. So I called Summit Julene at Summit Machine in Draper, UT, and ordered two new joints.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2275-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3528" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2275-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2275-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2275-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2275-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2275-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Test fitting the new track bar before we hook everything back up</figcaption></figure>



Ditch Digger got the new track bar mount welded in, along with some gussets and bracing to help make sure it won&#8217;t happen again. While inspecting the axle, we noticed that the axle side bracket had also developed a crack. We knew we needed a new axle side bracket. After doing some measuring and ensuring to keep the track bar as parallel to the drag link as possible, we welded in the new bracket. Because the overall length had changed, we needed a new tube to connect the two joints. Thankfully I had a stick of DOM tubing, which was a perfect size. We did some more measuring to cut the tube to a perfect length. Once the joint&#8217;s bungs were welded in and cooled, we connected the new track bar.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2278-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3525" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2278-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2278-225x300.jpg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2278-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2278-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2278-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Trevor tig welding the new track bar bungs</figcaption></figure>



Now that we have installed the new track bar, we need to do final clearance checks. Ditch Digger has some trailers outside his shop, so we dropped the ramps so I could drive up on each side and check clearances. All good to go. We knew we didn&#8217;t align the Jeep perfectly, so I called Chris with Iron Goat Garage and took the LJ in for an alignment. You should feel lucky if you have an off-road shop with an alignment rack. Most off-road shops have a better understanding of how our Jeeps work than most alignment shops will have. I was able to take the Jeep to the first annual Jeep Jamboree at CrossBar Ranch outside Davis, OK. So far so good, time to go abuse it some more. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2277-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3529" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2277-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2277-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2277-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2277-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_2277-2048x1536.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Track bar being installed. Stills needs some paint, but it&#8217;s ready to hit the trails</figcaption></figure>

Track Bar Has Left the Chat

There is a saying that has been floating around about tire size, 40s are the new 37s, 37s are the new 35s, and 35s are the new 33s. And there is a lot of truth in that. If you look at the manufacturers, they have been pushing larger and larger tire size offerings, and 35s fit the perfect offering for an off-road vehicle. At least five models over three brands offer a 35-inch tire in stock format. A couple of years ago, there was only 1, the Ford F-150 Raptor.&nbsp;



Currently, Ford, Jeep, and RAM are the only three manufacturers offering an off-road vehicle with a 35-inch tire. Ford Bronco with the Sasquatch package, Jeep Wrangler with the Xtreme Recon package, Ford F-150 Raptor, Ram 1500 TRX, and the Ford F-250 Tremor package. We will mainly look at some of our favorite builds, which are the Ford Broncos and Jeep Wranglers, as they are primarily the ones that go off-road.



Why do I like having manufacturers offer 35in tires? One reason I love it is that the individual does not have to modify their vehicle to accommodate the larger tires. I remember when Jeep first offered the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon in 2003. Then, 31in mud tires were huge compared to smaller street tires on the Jeep Wranglers. Another reason I love it is that everyone needs to start on smaller tires to learn their vehicle and to understand how to off-road. I have seen individuals jump straight to 40in tires and need help to place their tires or trail etiquette. That is why I love starting people out with smaller tires, and they can grow in the sport while slowly increasing tire size.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/froncobronco-1024x682.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3414" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/froncobronco-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/froncobronco-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/froncobronco-768x512.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/froncobronco-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/froncobronco-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Let us explore some of our favorite REVKITs on 35s. First up is&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/froncobronco/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FroncoBronco</a>, a first-edition 2021 Ford Bronco. Ford limited the first edition to just 7,000 units, so you have something special if you are lucky enough to get one. <a href="https://revkit.com/froncobronco/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Froncobronco</a>&nbsp;is one unique Ford Bronco, and he has set up his rig to not only tackle any terrain but to be able to camp out in the wilderness also.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/dirtseeker-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3415" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/dirtseeker-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/dirtseeker-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/dirtseeker-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/dirtseeker.jpg 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Even if you don&#8217;t get a vehicle equipped with 35s from the factory, it doesn&#8217;t mean it takes much to fit the tires—case in point with&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/dirtseeker/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DirtSeeker</a>. Equipped with a Rock Krawler 3.5in lift and Motobilt inner fenders, help clear those 35in tires.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/willy2.0-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3416" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/willy2.0-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/willy2.0-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/willy2.0-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/willy2.0-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/willy2.0-2048x1151.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



I love off-road packages like the Sasquatch from Ford and the Xtreme Recon from Jeep.&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/willy-2-0/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Willy2.0</a>&nbsp;fits this perfectly as a 2022 Jeep Wrangler Willys Xtreme Recon. Modest additions like adding LED lights and different front bumper help fit the off-roading and exploring that&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/willy-2-0/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Willy2.0</a>&nbsp;likes to do.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="819" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rk-pandemic-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3417" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rk-pandemic-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rk-pandemic-240x300.jpg 240w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rk-pandemic-768x960.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rk-pandemic-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/rk-pandemic.jpg 1440w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure>



What do you get when you buy a Jeep Wrangler 392 and want to race it at KOH? You get&nbsp;<a href="https://revkit.com/rk-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RK-Pandemic</a>, a purpose-built King of the Hammers class 4600 race Jeep that can still be driven on the road. Per the rules for class 4600, a 35-in DOT tire has to be used. Rock Krawler uses off-the-shelf parts that anyone can put on their Jeep and soon Ford Bronco.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/love62-1024x769.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3418" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/love62-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/love62-300x225.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/love62-768x576.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/love62-1536x1153.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/love62-2048x1537.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Last but not least,<a href="https://revkit.com/love62/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Love 62</a> is a self-proclaimed beginner in the Jeep world, but they bought arguably the most capable Jeep Wrangler ever offered, a 2021 Jeep Wrangler 392 Xtreme Recon. And yep, you guessed it, it comes factory with 35-in tires. Modifications have begun with a Warn Platinum winch and KC Gravity Pro6 Light bar.&nbsp;



Whether you are new to the world of off-roading or barreling down a race course at 100+ mph, the 35-inch tire has been the go-to tire for years and will be the standard that even manufacturers start their builds.&nbsp;

Are 35s The Best Beginner Tire?

<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://revkit.com/victorias-yota/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victoria&#8217;s Yota</a>: A Toyota Tacoma Build with Style and Substance</li>
</ol>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/victorias-yota/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DSC00223-2-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3433" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DSC00223-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DSC00223-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DSC00223-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DSC00223-2-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DSC00223-2-2048x1151.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



Toyota Tacomas are already known for their durability and versatility, but with the right modifications, they can be transformed into off-road beasts that are capable of tackling the toughest terrains. Victoria, the owner of this Toyota Tacoma, has done just that with her build, and the result is a stunning truck that combines style and substance in equal measure.



Let&#8217;s take a closer look at the modifications that have been made to this Tacoma.



The first thing you&#8217;ll notice about Victoria&#8217;s Yota is the striking white and black color scheme. The truck has been fitted with a custom grille and blacked-out badges, which complement the overall aesthetic. 



The truck sits on Fuel Off Road 17&#8242; Ammo Wheels with TOYO M/T 295/75R17 tires, which provide excellent traction on both off-road trails and paved roads. The fender flares have been replaced with wider fender trim, which not only look aggressive but also provide better protection against rocks and other debris.



Off-roading can be rough on your vehicle, so it&#8217;s important to have the right protection in place. Victoria&#8217;s Yota is equipped with a CBI Offroad Fabrication skid plate, which provides excellent protection for the truck&#8217;s underside. 



To improve the truck&#8217;s off-road capabilities, Victoria has installed a PRO COMP 3 inch lift suspension system. This setup provides a smooth ride over rough terrain and allows for greater articulation when crawling over rocks and obstacles.



Under the hood, the truck has been upgraded with a TRD PRO SNORKEL W/ K&amp;N FILTER, which improve airflow and increase power. 



Victoria&#8217;s Yota is a prime example of a well-executed Toyota Tacoma build. The modifications made to the truck not only improve its off-road capabilities but also enhance its overall appearance. 



2. <a href="https://revkit.com/atlas-tacoma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlas Tacoma</a>: An Off-Road Machine Built to Conquer Any Terrain



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/atlas-tacoma/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2019-toyota-tacoma-or-4x4-atlas-tacoma-314a1c-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3437" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2019-toyota-tacoma-or-4x4-atlas-tacoma-314a1c-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2019-toyota-tacoma-or-4x4-atlas-tacoma-314a1c-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2019-toyota-tacoma-or-4x4-atlas-tacoma-314a1c-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2019-toyota-tacoma-or-4x4-atlas-tacoma-314a1c-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2019-toyota-tacoma-or-4x4-atlas-tacoma-314a1c.jpg 1840w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



Let&#8217;s take a closer look at the modifications that have been made to this 3rd gen Toyota Tacoma.



The first thing you&#8217;ll notice about the Atlas Tacoma is its overland roof rack set up. The truck has been upgraded with King suspension 2.5 remote reservoir shocks &amp; Icon RXT Leaf Springs. This setup provides more ground clearance and allows for clearance of the 33” Ridge Grappler tires on 17 inch TRD wheels. 



The truck is equipped with a number of off-road accessories, including a Baja Designs 40” LED Lightbar, Baja Design Rock Lights, CaliRaised Ditch Lights and a UpTopOverland Alpha Roof Rack. On top of the roof rack sits a beautiful Ikamper 2.0 roof top tent set up. The roof set up is finished out with 95L Roam Adventure Co Cases. 



3. <a href="https://revkit.com/victory-4x4-s-3rd-gen-tacoma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victory 4&#215;4&#8217;s 3rd Gen Tacoma</a>: The Ultimate Off-Road Machine



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://revkit.com/victory-4x4-s-3rd-gen-tacoma/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="900" height="600" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/monkeyevil-0372.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3438" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/monkeyevil-0372.jpg 900w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/monkeyevil-0372-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/monkeyevil-0372-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></a></figure>







How did Victory 4&#215;4&#8217;s 3rd Gen Tacoma get its perfect stance? Well, the truck has been lifted with a BDS 3 Inch Lift Kit setup that includes a Fox 2.5 DSC coilovers. This set up allows for clearance over the Mamba M19 Wheels and Falken Wildpeak M/T 35&#215;12.5R18 Tires. 



The truck is also equipped with a number of hardcore accessories, including a Victory 4&#215;4 Strike Front and Rear Bumpers, Victory 4&#215;4 Blitz Rock Sliders, Victory 4&#215;4 Full Height Bed Rack &amp; Victory 4&#215;4 skid plates. 



Under the hood, the Victory 4&#215;4&#8217;s 3rd Gen Tacoma has been upgraded with a aFe Momentum GT and a aFe Mach Force-Xp exhaust system. These modifications increase airflow and improve exhaust flow, which leads to better performance and a more aggressive sound.



The interior of the Victory 4&#215;4&#8217;s 3rd Gen Tacoma has been upgraded with Kicker Audio System, Katzkin Leather Seats and TYT TH-9800 Quad Band Radio. 



The Victory 4&#215;4&#8217;s 3rd Gen Tacoma is a true off-road machine that&#8217;s as stylish as it is functional. If you&#8217;re looking to build your own off-road Tacoma, the Victory 4&#215;4&#8217;s 3rd Gen Tacoma is a great way to see how mods can really change the look of your next build. 



4. <a href="https://revkit.com/mile-high-yota/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mile High Yota</a>: Taking Toyota Off-Roading to New Heights



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/mile-high-yota/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2020-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-mile-high-yota-9eccef-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3439" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2020-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-mile-high-yota-9eccef-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2020-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-mile-high-yota-9eccef-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2020-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-mile-high-yota-9eccef-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2020-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-mile-high-yota-9eccef-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2020-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-mile-high-yota-9eccef.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



Let&#8217;s take a closer look at the modifications that have been made to this 3rd Gen Toyota.



The first thing you&#8217;ll notice about the Mile High Yota is its Baja designs XL linkable lightbar. The lighting on this truck has been upgraded with Baja squadron sport ditch lights, Baja Designs squadron fogs &amp; Baja Designs s2 sport chase lights. 



This truck has been lifted with a 3&#8243; King suspension and 600lb Eibach springs. This setup provides more travel and a smooth ride. 



The truck is also equipped with a large number of accessories, including Lil Bs fabrication front bumper, C4 rear bumper with swingout, RCI full aluminum skids, Diamondback cover, Rsg flat angle with cleats and kickout rock sliders and Pelican cases. 



The Yota is also equipped with a WARN Evo 10 S winch. You can see more of this build on Instagram at @mile_high_yota. 



5.<a href="https://revkit.com/spartan-x-taco/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spartan-X Taco</a>: Building a Tough and Capable Toyota Tacoma for the Trails



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://revkit.com/spartan-x-taco/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="575" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2016-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-spartan-x-taco-d14c61-1024x575.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3435" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2016-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-spartan-x-taco-d14c61-1024x575.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2016-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-spartan-x-taco-d14c61-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2016-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-spartan-x-taco-d14c61-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2016-toyota-tacoma-trd-off-road-spartan-x-taco-d14c61.jpeg 1242w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



Let&#8217;s take a closer look at the modifications that have been made to this Toyota.



The Spartan-X Taco get its impressive stance from a set of 2006 Super Duty Axles. The truck has been lifted with a custom suspension setup that allows it to clear KMC 17 HEX beadlocks Custom Paint by Spartan X Customs, with Mickey Thompson 43” Baja Pro XS tires. 



The truck is also equipped with a number LED Lighting upgrages; Alpha Owls 2016+ LED headlights, Spartan X Customs &#8211; Dual Function Scoop light kit, Spartan X Customs &#8211; 46” Dark Optic Roof rack Light and Spartan X Customs &#8211; 3-Color LED projector fog lights.



Off-roading can be rough, so it&#8217;s important to have the right protection in place. The Spartan-X Taco is equipped with a number of protective accessories, including CBI OFFROAD custom made front and rear bumpers Bullet Lined and custom graphics painted by Spartan X Customs.



Spartan X Customs said it best when they said &#8220;Her name is Major and she was built for my love of art that functions!&#8221;. 



The Spartan-X Taco is a true off-road machine that&#8217;s as stylish as it is functional. If you&#8217;re looking to build your own off-road Tacoma, the Spartan-X Taco is a great source of inspiration.

5 Must-See Toyota Tacoma Builds

For the 2022 Unlimited LJ Adventure, we took the participants deep into the heart of Arizona for the Saguaro Adventure. If you have never wheeled in Arizona, you need to. But make sure you bring spare parts and spare tires as the group lost 7 tires over 5 days of wheeling. Make sure you follow along as we will update each week as a new video drops.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-x-large-font-size">The One Where We Outrun The Rain</h2>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="The One Where We Outrun The Rain" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iCcYeyUA9D4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-x-large-font-size">The One With the Biggest Waterfall</h2>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="The One With The Biggest Waterfall" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bK30CuSwpbg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-x-large-font-size">The One Where We Make &#8216;Em Fit</h2>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="The One Where We Make &#039;Em Fit" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8GKvC0_-e84?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-x-large-font-size">The One With Lots of Body Damage</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="The One With Lots of Body Damage!" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FsTYMmTnn5k?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-x-large-font-size">The One With Trixie</h2>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="The One With Trixie!" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XR94jln8k14?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Make sure you also catch up with the 2021 Ozark Adventure on YouTube as we explored 3 states over 6 days of wheeling



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Day 1 ULJA 2021" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p0HyuRZHbtM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>

2022 Unlimited LJ Adventure

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="684" src="http://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1614-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3285" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1614-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1614-300x200.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1614-768x513.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1614-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1614.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



OVERKILL LJ is no stranger to off-roading and Jeeps, growing up idolizing Big Foot monster truck. He even started working on vehicles when he was 13, doing oil changes and other small jobs around the shop.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="540" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_3556.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3287" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_3556.jpg 960w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_3556-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_3556-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure>



After years of modifying trucks with lift kits and lockers to gather firewood in the woods, OVERKILL LJ got increasingly involved with off-roading. Then in the mid-2000s, Jimmy got into the rock bouncer scene. Over the next ten years, he traveled all over, racing his rock bouncer.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1785-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3288" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1785-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1785-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1785-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1785-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_1785-scaled.jpeg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>



Shortly after retiring, he found a Jeep LJ he could not pass up on. It had a basic lift with 33s, but big plans were in store for the LJ. Those plans came sooner than later after a small flock of Turkeys decided it was a good idea to fly into the LJ as OVERKILL LJ was driving home with one of the Turkeys coming through the windshield and started to freak out inside the Jeep.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="577" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7477-1024x577.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3289" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7477-1024x577.jpg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7477-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7477-768x432.jpg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7477-1536x865.jpg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7477.jpg 1705w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Soon after settling up with the insurance company, the build started. After getting a new set of axles to put under the Jeep due to the turkeys, a Metalcloak long arm kit was installed. A friend called and asked if there was any way he could borrow his tires for a short bit. This got him thinking, why not just go all in? So he found a super-duty 60, 14 bolt rear, regeared them to 5.38, and got himself a set of 39in BFG KM3s with Raceline Avenger bead locks.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="540" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5607.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3290" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5607.jpg 960w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5607-300x169.jpg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5607-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure>



Now that the Jeep was set up to conquer anything, he knew the 4.0 would not cut it. OVERKILL LJ&#8217;s wife owns and operates JS Offroad Addict in Seymour, MO. Shortly after being a part of an event at Southern Missouri Off-Road Ranch, the 4.0 was pulled out, and a new LS2 6.0 with a Whipple Supercharger was installed. First, of course, they had to ensure it was done and tested as they were headed to Trail Hero and the 2022 Unlimited LJ Adventure. But they got it done, and the rig performed flawlessly all week.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7001-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3291" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7001-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7001-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7001-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7001-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_7001-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



JS Offroad Addict also participates in the Yukon Takeover event on March 18th. Also, if you are ever wheeling Southern Missouri Off-Road Ranch and need parts, OVERKILL LJ and JS Offroad Addict are right next door in Seymour, MO. So give them a call and check out this one, sweet LJ.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5092-1-1024x768.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-3292" srcset="https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5092-1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5092-1-300x225.jpeg 300w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5092-1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5092-1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https://art16.revkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/IMG_5092-1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>