Trail ready
08-29-2011 | 03:48 AM
#11
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 14,796
Likes: 366
From: Midwest City, OK
08-29-2011 | 07:07 AM
#13
JK Super Freak
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 1,206
Likes: 0
From: Elizabethtown, PA
Originally Posted by ChryslerChris
IMO here are the bare minimums for wheeling:
Since you're a fellow Sport owner, the MUST HAVE is a JKS quicker sway bar disconnect. Without this, you'll be wrenching and cussing trying to get the sway bar links off, as others look on and lose patience LOL
Not disconnecting handicaps you in the articulation department and you'll get stuck on otherwise manageable rutted ground. Note: when you disco, take your links completely off and throw them in the glovebox. And leave your sway bar parallel with your frame.
Also get a cheap air compressor (for starters) at your local auto store. You'll need it to air up after your run.
Then get a good recovery kit (tow straps, chains etc., maybe even a collapsible shovel)
Get someone else to wheel with. With one or two buddies tagging along in their rigs, there will always be someone to pull others out. But if you're going at it alone (not recommended except for the lighter trails), a winch and a hi-lift jack + accessories (lift-mate and offroad base at least).
OPTIONAL: If you have dough, get rid of those god-awful 29 inch stock tires and get at least 33 inch off-road tires for better grip and ground clearance. It'll help your long-wheelbase JKU from getting high-centered too much too.
A CB radio is great to have but on a good day with tops and doors off, you can just communicate between Jeeps by yelling LOL. So it's somewhat optional too... if you run outta money don't worry about a CB yet.
Either than that, a stock sport will do just fine. Have fun and report in with pics after you're done!
Since you're a fellow Sport owner, the MUST HAVE is a JKS quicker sway bar disconnect. Without this, you'll be wrenching and cussing trying to get the sway bar links off, as others look on and lose patience LOL
Not disconnecting handicaps you in the articulation department and you'll get stuck on otherwise manageable rutted ground. Note: when you disco, take your links completely off and throw them in the glovebox. And leave your sway bar parallel with your frame.Also get a cheap air compressor (for starters) at your local auto store. You'll need it to air up after your run.
Then get a good recovery kit (tow straps, chains etc., maybe even a collapsible shovel)
Get someone else to wheel with. With one or two buddies tagging along in their rigs, there will always be someone to pull others out. But if you're going at it alone (not recommended except for the lighter trails), a winch and a hi-lift jack + accessories (lift-mate and offroad base at least).
OPTIONAL: If you have dough, get rid of those god-awful 29 inch stock tires and get at least 33 inch off-road tires for better grip and ground clearance. It'll help your long-wheelbase JKU from getting high-centered too much too.
A CB radio is great to have but on a good day with tops and doors off, you can just communicate between Jeeps by yelling LOL. So it's somewhat optional too... if you run outta money don't worry about a CB yet.
Either than that, a stock sport will do just fine. Have fun and report in with pics after you're done!
08-29-2011 | 08:38 AM
#15
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 14,796
Likes: 366
From: Midwest City, OK
Well, they are an option, which is why I asked. I assume you have hooks on the front bumper as well? They are just as important as the rear (maybe more so, since generally you want to go the way of lead, not backtrack).
08-29-2011 | 09:51 AM
#16
JK Super Freak
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 1,239
Likes: 0
From: Metro Detroit, MI
Originally Posted by Xman4602
Not to be argumentative but if you're running stock 17's your tires are actually 32.1" already. 33's are a waste of money. Go straight to 35's post lift and avoid disappointment.
couldn't get to Discount Tire fast enough.
08-29-2011 | 09:58 AM
#17
JK Newbie
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Louisville, Ky
I highly recommend replacing the factory engine/trans skid plate. The one on there doesn't protect against much. Skid Row Off-Road make a great one that still allows for easy oil changes. It is worth every penny. I use my JK as my daily as well, so I know how you have to protect the expensive parts.