- Where to Start
- How to add clearance
- Easier Obstacles with larger tires
- Addition of Support Mods
- Parts of a Jeep
Thes vehicle is known for its off-road capabilities, simple design choices, durable underbody, and solid axles that aid drivers in journeying off the main roads into the wild outdoor terrain. This said, while Wranglers can do their job from the moment they have been manufactured, there is still room for improvement which can be done with the help of aftermarket parts to enhance the product. While this can be difficult for new owners to get a grasp of, this article will aid you through each of the most important four phases of modification.
Where to Start
Until recently, perhaps you have driven out to open field or even a flat sandy beach. If this is the case, it is vitally important to focus firstly on the protection of the underbody. The differential covers are the lowest point of contact on this automobile. As such, these small oval-shaped structures take a large amount of the force provided by rocks or exposed tree trunks that may be difficult to see.
Replacing these covers with heftier gauge alternatives courtesy of manufacturers like ARB can aid the Jeep in absorbing and moving beyond the obstacle with little to no damage. Moreover, swapping the thin factory skid plates with a thicker one can also protect the automobiles underbody to a greater degree, enabling safer crossing on unpaved environments.
How to add Clearance
While driving off-road, the amount of articulation and clearance are the next significant issue to be addressed. Sometimes, a levelling kit such as the TeraFlex framework will offer an extra 1-2″ of clearance. Regularly that little change in height is adequate enough to give the Jeep enough underbody space to move beyond any impediments or handle the impact of conditions found in mud or sand environments.
Easier Obstacles with Larger Tires
Expanding the amount of ground clearance via another suspension can be sufficient to avoid the majority of damage impacting the Jeep’s underbody. However, the standard factory tire sizes will keep axles at a similar height to the factory. The best way to expand the ground clearance is the third phase in this process, switching them out for bigger tires.
By expanding the size of the tires, you are lifting the entire height of the Jeep itself and gaining a fantastic boost of added clearance. The primary tire change would be a 33″ tire, that can most often require few alterations to the automobile.
Moving up to a 35″ tire will necessitate at least a 2.5″ lift, along with new control arms to address drivetrain geometry. Finally, a 37″ or more tire size will need a 4″+ lift and substitution of the control arms as well as driveshafts. Each alteration after this point will mean a full swap of most suspension and components for steering.
Addition of Support Mods
The final phase consists of accessorizing your vehicle with modifications fitting your driving needs. if you intend to engage in the water crossing, added an aftermarket snorkel will aid in the elevation of air intake to stop the water from getting to the engine, resulting in damages. Kits Such as the Rugged Ridge snorkel offer an impressive modular approach to suit your needs.
Aftermarket steel bumpers offer great deal protection as well as more tire clearance. They vary between full-width replacements to shorter more compact options such as the ARB stubby that provides the perfect amount of coverage and weight needed.
Moreover, Aftermarket winches can be useful as they enable you to get your Jeep out of sticky situations such as water, mud, or sand. You can choose many types, like the Engo 9,000 lb winch which is a good choice for beginners.
Jeep modifications can be complex, but if you follow these four phases of modifications closely you will be well on your way to having a safe and functional off-road vehicle in no time. Allows choice your parts according to your own specific needs as the terrain you drive in will affect which parts you should choose.
If you have or intend to make any of these modifications, feel free to comment on your thoughts below!