Probably one of the best build platforms out there is the 03-06 Jeep TJ Rubicon.  They come out of the box with a good wheelbase, 4:1 transfer case, locking differentials, and aggressive tires.  This TJ was purchased used last year by the customer.  Unfortunately, the previous owner had replaced the Goodyear MTR tires with a highway tread tire.  It wasn’t all bad , though.  The Jeep had a 1.75″ budget boost already.  The purchase was followed soon with a Warn winch mounting plate and a Warn M8000 winch.  We began making a list of mods that the customer would be interested in.  We started the upgrades and what resulted was a well rounded, capable, daily driven machine. 

Here are a few of the modifications we made: 

285/75r16  Goodyear Duratrac tires with Spidertrax 1.25″ wheel spacers

M.O.R.E. 1″ body lift and JKS Budget Motor Mount Lift

Rokmen Transfer Case Crossmember, Engine/Transmission Skid

1310 CV rear driveshaft

Rubicon Express Rr Adj. Upper Arms and Adj. Rr Trackbar

And lastly some maintenance items which consisted of new front axle joints, front driveshaft joints, and repairing a P0455 code which was caused by an “eaten” fuel vapor line

Here are before and after photos: 

This is a 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.  It was in the shop here last month for some much needed upgrades.  The JK was originally equipped with a 28″ tire and going off road the low hanging undercarraige was vulnerable and begging for some rock rash.  Being a daily driver and weekend wheeler, David wanted combination of parts that would still improve the off road capability, yet turn some heads when driving around town.  Here are the upgrades:  Teraflex 2.5″ spacer lift with 9550 shocks, 295/70r18  Nitto Trail Grapplers, 18×9 KMC Monster wheels, AEV Procal calibration module.  David also opted for the matching spare tire so that it would look right hanging on the rear and operate correctly in case he damaged one.  Stay tuned as David returns for future upgrades.

Our latest adventure included a weekend camp at Pickett State Park just north of Jamestown, TN.  From Knoxville we headed north up I-75 and took the Oneida exit.  This way took us through the scenic Big South Fork area.  I’ve always loved this area since camping with the grandparents at a young age.  I didn’t realize how close Pickett was to the Charit Creek Lodge until passing the signs just before the Pickett entrance.  The Pickett State Park area is really nice and had lots of hiking trails, caves, and a neat suspended bridge over the water area.  Our trail ride through the forest led us by some scenic views and other natural formations that could only be accessed via off road vehicle.  I’ve included some pictures from the trail ride below.  It was a great time with family and friends.

The trail took us about 10 miles into the forest and proved to be a good challenge for the five vehicles that came.  Part of the trail shown here continued up an old dual wheel car hauling trailer.  The tightest fit was our 2007 JK with a 78″ track width.  I’d say anyone with full size axles could possibly have some trouble here as there is no way we saw around this obstacle

Since the sale of the 1982 CJ7, we have improved it more and it is now a better looking and more capable vehicle than ever before.  Our pal Brandon has really cleaned this rig up since the purchase in November 2009.  The latest upgrade to the Jeep was the addition of the Genright aluminum fuel tank, 4″ stretched rockers and 3/16″ steel corners.  Luckily there was some left over paint for the body shop to finish the project for us.  The Jeep drives better than ever.  And, Brandon won’t be so concerned since this extra climbing stability will keep him a little more comfortable.

This local Knoxville couple had worn the stock tires to nothing. ” We wanted more than just the replacement highway tire, something to make the vehicle look like it’s really 4 wheel drive.”   Off with the old and UP with the new.  The decision was make to up the ante with some 33/11r18 Nitto Terra Grapplers.  To make room for the new size, the QX56 was lifted 2″ via steel and aluminum coil spacers.  Since the rear was supported with an air bag assist shock, we had to trick the suspension into thinking that it was under a load.  Once leveled out, we took the truck to the guys at Pete’s Alignment for them to do their thing.  The result is a clean, smooth riding SUV with the capability to tame more than just the local mall parking lot.

The 2005-up Grand Cherokee WK isn’t thought of as an off roader, until now.  Check out Jay’s WK outfitted here at our shop with Superlift’s 4″ suspension, AEV Savegre wheels, and Goodyear Duratrac tires.  The foundation for this build is a 2005 Grand Cherokee with the 5.7L Hemi engine.  The power that the engine provides allows the Jeep to turn the 285/70r17 tires without issue.  To correct the speedometer and ESP/Traction control we’ve added the AEV EGR Module.  This electronic device sends the recalibrated info to the instrument panel and various modules to allow the Jeep to perform as if it were straight from the showroom floor.  A great combination of parts professionally installed makes this one slick off road wagon!