Your Jeep rolled off the assembly line a rugged, powerful and impressive off-road vehicle. But who wants to settle for stock when you can get more? Jeep enthusiasts like you seek the right mods to improve off road suspension, traction, ground clearance, visibility and other key performance measures. Having the tools to get yourself out of a jam is also vital. That’s why lift kits, tires and winches are all good upgrade choices for your Jeep – and this guide can help you get started on your modding journey.
Suspension and Body Lift Kits
Off-roaders consider lifting their vehicles for several reasons: improving ground clearance, boosting ride height, equipping larger tires and changing suspension performance, to name a few. The key is choosing the right kind of lift to meet your goals. Suspension lifts create a taller suspension system. Body lifts raise the body of a vehicle higher than its frame.
You can equip bigger tires with both types of lifts. But a body lift will boost ride height, while a suspension lift increases ground clearance. ReadyLift, Rough Country, ICON, Pro Comp and DayStar all produce top-quality lift kits for Jeeps.
Tires and Wheels
Your tires and wheels provide the key to getting the best traction off the road. Tire design features like tread depth, pattern, knobs, sidewall strength, tire compound and shoulder construction all impact tire performance. Tires come in all-terrain varieties as well as models made for mud, rocky ground, sand and snow.
You’ll usually find wheels in aluminum and steel versions. Both can deliver solid strength, durability and dependability on unpaved ground. Aluminum wheels tend to be lighter, while steel editions are usually stronger. However, this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule. Pay attention to each wheel’s design and load ratings as you shop.
Winches and Recovery Gear
No matter where you plan to ride, you don’t want to hit the trails without a truck winch. This essential piece of gear can make a difference between getting out of a difficult situation and staying stuck. A winch consists of a synthetic rope or cable wrapped around a drum and powered by a motor. When checking out winches, you’ll want to look at factors such as line pull capacity, cable style and even waterproofing.
It’s also wise to include winch accessories and recovery equipment with your purchase. Accessory kits usually include snatch blocks, which make it easier to pull heavier items, plus gloves, chains and tow straps. Trail jacks, traction pads, D-ring mounts and other items are ideal for helping extract stuck vehicles from ditches.
Where To Find Your Off-Road Gear
Off-roading calls for gear that delivers performance above and beyond average aftermarket parts. When shopping for your upgrades, choose a retailer specializing in off-road performance products. You’ll gain access to a huge range of specialty items designed to handle the rigors of the trails. Your favorite retailer will also have experts on hand who can make recommendations and help you locate the parts and accessories you want.
