German

I didn’t know if this should go into the modified section or the stock section. Either way, it should help a lot of unlimited owners out there.

I bought some grab handles for the Jeep because my daughter was having trouble getting in and out. I knew this would be a bigger issue when the lift and tires are on, and I didn’t want to get raped buying some after market side steps when I have the stock rock rails on the Rubicon. Trouble is, the straps were too short to reach around the bar with its bazaar plastic inserts and the location of the sound bar forces the straps (if they would fit) towards the rear of the vehicle. Not a good location, but better than nothing right? Well, the fact that they wouldn’t fit forced me to improvise.

Step 1: Buy the middle of the road straps from one of the many dealers out there. I got the best deal from FourWheel Parts, but you may be able to find them cheaper. They are called “Deluxe Sport Handles, Product #: OUT769301” from FourWheel Parts and run for $14.99 and free shipping. Note: Only buy one pair because the straps are too short to fit the front.


Sorry for the poor photo quality. It was raining this morning when I took the photos. I'll post exterior photos of the Jeep shourtly in the photos section.

Step 2: Remove the handle portion of the grab handles. They just slide off of the Velcro section.



Step 3: Drill a hole using a ¼” drill bit about a ¼ of an inch from the end of the straps. This will give you enough room to slide the bolts through.



Step 4: Remove one of the bolts from your sound bar. Slide the bolt through the hole in the strap and screw back into place. Then repeat for the other bolt. I would not suggest taking both bolts out at the same time for obvious reasons, but if you feel lucky, have a blast.

Step 5: Step back and marvel at your achievement.






Step 6: Most important!!! Invite all of your friends over and show them the product of your vast imagination. Not to mention your engineering prowess. Be sure not the thank German for filling you in on this little mod.

wayoflife

Hey German, this is a great mod - Thanks for posting this!!

Beel_MT

Wow, great improv. It almost looks like it could pass for factory install.

I don't have have one to look at, how big is the bolt head? Do you think you have the potential for pulling through?

I have a grommet kit I use for all sorts of things around the house. The grommets have a 3/8 ID which might be too big. Maybe I'll get some 1/4 inch.

Very cool.

Beel

German

The washer is 3/4 to 1 inch in diameter. It shouldn't pull through.

Beel_MT

Nice. You're right, that shouldn't pull through at all.

Beel

papabear

This is awesome, thanks for posting. Dave

2K1TJ

Thanks for sharing!. I have those same handles that I saved off a YJ that I used to own. I'd already planned on using them on the JK. This info will come in handy.

SpudRacer

I can't see any pics...

Tom
Bryson City, NC

Phishjeep

I bought the same handles (Thanks, German). I put one on the passenger side of my two door, then I used the other handle and the backing pieces from both handles to put a handle on the vertical part of the roll bar, beneath the adjustable seat belt retainer. Now, my six year old can grab the handle and put his foot on the sill and pull himself in without looking precarious (like he did before, especially when he didn't weant my help). I can throw some pictures up if anyone wants to see it.

HG07JKRubi

Yes, I'd like to see the pics. Thanks.