Steps to Building a Jeep
A Jeep build is a great way to customize your vehicle. But it’s important to know the steps involved.
Adding bigger tires and a lift kit can make your jeep look better and also can amp up off road performance by giving you more ground clearance. However, it can also adversely affect the safety and functionality of the vehicle, so care must be taken when it comes to modifications.
Order of Operations
There is no shortage for parts or options when it comes to building a Jeep, whether it's for extreme off-road use or to just to give it a custom look. However, despite the availability of parts, the last thing you want to do is just start ordering from a catalogue because the parts look good on their show models.
It's important to have a plan for your Jeep build. Our experts at 146 Kustom are ready to help you find the right parts to suit your needs.
Bigger Tires
Bigger tires can make a huge difference in your Jeep's performance and look. They can make your Jeep more aggressive and offroad capable. They can also improve traction and handling.
Before you install bigger tires, make sure to get the right rims for your Jeep. The most important measurements are rim diameter and width. Using the wrong rim size will damage your tire. Trying to shoehorn your tires into a narrow rim can cause the edges to rub against the road and reduce their durability.
You can also use wheel spacers to increase your Jeep's clearance without a lift kit. This will prevent the tires from rubbing against your fenders or body.
Lift Kit
A lift kit is a must have for those looking to upgrade to larger tires. Adding a lift also makes your Jeep look better.
Some lift kits may require additional parts such as longer shocks, control arms and brake lines. This will increase the cost and complexity of the installation.
The most popular lift kits for Jeeps are suspension lifts which raise the body and frame of the vehicle. These kits come in a variety of sizes from 2-6 inches. Adding a lift with large tires can make a significant difference in the handling of your Jeep.
Suspension Upgrades
The suspension system is the set of spring systems, shock absorbers, suspension & steering linkage parts that connect the wheels to the vehicle frame for motion between both. A good Jeep suspension is a balance of offroad articulation & on-road stability.
Many folks claim long-arm setups ride better than short-arms but that is often based on other factors more so than control arm length. Long-arms also allow for more breakover angle which is important for offroad articulation.
Another important modification is adding a performance coilover kit. This will increase the payload of your jeep and help with reducing shock fade.
Off Road Bumpers
One of the coolest modifications you can make to a Jeep is adding specialty bumpers. Not only do these add a unique look, but they also protect your vehicle from dings and scrapes, especially when you’re on the trail.
Many of the best off road bumpers are winch compatible, have clevis/D-ring mounts for additional recovery options and offer auxiliary light integrations to illuminate your path as you head out on the trails. A powder coat finish helps them withstand the elements as well, preventing scratches and rust.
They can come in a one-piece pre-fabricated design, modular components that you assemble or weld together, and a variety of styles to fit your needs and budget.
Winch
Whether you’re an experienced off-roader or just starting out, having a winch is essential to any Jeep. A winch can save your rear end when stuck in a tree or can be used to pull another vehicle out of trouble.
Most of the time, a winch will attach to the bumper via a fairlead. This is a slot in the bumper where the cable feeds through.
Depending on the type of bumper and other modifications, you may have to drill to install a fairlead. Always make sure the hook is secured to a D-Ring (heavy duty shackles). This will prevent it from going around an object and potentially damaging your vehicle.
Exterior Lighting
Upgraded lighting is a must, especially if you plan on off-roading and avoiding obstacles. If you are looking to light up the trail, you have a few different options. From pod lights to light bars, there is something to fit all shapes and sizes. They can be mounted on the roof, hood, bumper, side view mirrors, even on the sides of the jeep in rock guards and sliders so you can pick a line for your tires. With LED and rugged constructions, off-road lights are built to withstand the abuse of the elements and the trails.
If you are planning on buying a used Jeep, it is essential to have the build sheet on hand. This can help determine any possible modifications that may have been made to the vehicle. If not, take it to a trained professional like 146 Kustom for an evaluation on the condition as well as parts that may compliment your new ride
A Jeep build is a great way to customize your vehicle. But it’s important to know the steps involved. Adding bigger tires and a lift kit can make your jeep look better and also can amp up off road performance by giving you more ground clearance. However, it can also adversely affect the safety and…