Upgrades needed to complete the Rubicon Trail

[Roel Salazar]

Hi, guys, Im a 22yo mexican, and one of my biggest dreams is yo coquer the rubicon trail, so im starting saving money for the upgrades.

I have a 97 TJ Sport with:
-rear dana 44
- RC 2.5" lift kit
- 31" tires
- 2" coil spacers

The rest is stock

As You can see, its basically stock, so im searching for people who can tell me what upgrades I really need and the way to make it a budget build, because my salary its not that big to go 44" and a cummins swap haha.

Thanks.

 

[dcoop]

A winch..

 

[JeepingNet]

I believe they are saying 33s these days are what is needed. I bet it could be done on 31s with stacking rocks but most jeeps/trucks/etc come with tires larger than 31 from factory these days.

 

[Chris]

You can do it in a bone stock Rubicon with the right driver and a good spotter.

All I would really insist on is a winch, lockers, and good tires.

 

[taylormade73]

You can do it in a bone stock Rubicon with the right driver and a good spotter.

All I would really insist on is a winch, lockers, and good tires.

And really good skids!

 

[Apparition]

Going to need some good skid plates.

 

[Apparition]

And really good skids!

Great minds

 

[taylormade73]

Going to need some good skid plates.

Jinx

 

[Chris]

And really good skids!

True indeed!

 

[1904-06LJR]

CBRN mask for all the smoke.

 

[Mr. Bills]

. . . one of my biggest dreams is [to conquer] the Rubicon Trail, so I'm saving money for the upgrades.

. . . I'm searching for people who can tell me what upgrades I really need and the way to make it a budget build. . . .

The Jeepers Jamboree has been organizing runs across the Rubicon Trail for 53 years. This is their recommendation:

• At least a 3.5" Lift and 33" Off-Road Tires
• Functional parking brake or micro-lock
• Tow Strap with loops (recommended rated at 2 times the vehicle weight)
• First Aid Kit
• Hi-Lift Jack (you might need one for changing a tire)
• Spare tire with diameter within 3 inches of existing tires (no temporary spares)
• Battery Hold Downs (no bungee cords)
• Skid Plates for gas tank, transfer case and transmission
• Remove all Hub-Caps and Steps
• Must have functioning low range in transfer case
• Locker in front or rear

Suggestions: 5 gallon can of gas for older vehicles and rocker panels for more protection.

This is their pre-departure maintenance checklist:

• Check Engine Oil
• Check Transmission Oil
• Check Brake Fluid
• Check Radiator Coolant
• Check Water Pump (if accessible)
• Check Ignition related items
• Check for proper Alternator output
• Check Battery will charge, hold a charge, and battery hold down supports the battery
• Check fuel system along with hoses for cracks and leaks.
• Check Fan Belts
• Check Hoses
• Check Power Steering system components
• Check Air Filter
• Check SEAT BELTS
• Check Tires for wear or damage
• Tighten drive shaft u-bolts
• Check and tighten lug bolts
• Check for CRACKS IN FRAME
• Check brake pads & shoes
• Check for loose bolts or nuts all throughout the vehicle
• Grease all fittings (u-joints, steering)
• Check gear oils: transfer case/differentials
• Check Shocks and Springs
• Double check winch and cable

Careful thought and many years of offroading experience on the Rubicon Trail are reflected in both lists.