Jeep Liberty KJ Overland Build: Throwback Thursday Presented by the All-New Nitto Recon Grappler™ A/T
When building an overlanding rig the Jeep Liberty KJ might not be the obvious choice. But this example shows what a great platform it can be.
The Jeep Liberty KJ was produced for model years 2002 to 2007. It replaced the much-loved Cherokee XJ. While many Jeep enthusiasts still hold the Cherokee in high esteem the Liberty KJ has a much smaller following. However, the lack of interest in the KJ can lead to some exceptional values. It can also make a great platform to build an overlanding rig. It is of course not as spacious as a Grand Cherokee but with the right modifications it can be all the Jeep you need.
This week’s “Throwback Thursday” presented by Nitto Tire takes a close look at a Jeep Liberty KJ overland build. The Jeep featured here is a 2006 Liberty Renegade. The Renegade package included a flat hood and roof mounted lights among some other bits. But this particular Jeep is also fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission which is rare in the Liberty. But this is not a stock Liberty. In this video posted on the Backcountry Renegade YouTube channel we get an overview of everything that went into making this a true overlanding vehicle.
Interior and Exterior Upgrades
Upfront this Jeep Liberty KJ has an ARB bumper with a bull bar. This heavy-duty bumper has already withstood the deer test and came out unscathed. A set of auxiliary lights are also installed in the bumper. There is also a front mounted winch and shackles. This lends a tough look as well as functionality to the front of the Jeep. Along the sides are a set of boulder bars. Another key exterior upgrade on this Jeep are the roof rails. The stock plastic rails are not tough enough to support the weight of all the accessories needed for an overlanding rig. They have been replaced here with a set of steel rails. On the inside there is a slew of mounts up front that are used to hold various devices. In the cargo area there is a cargo rack from All J products installed to provide extra storage.
Engine and Suspension
Under the hood resides the stock 3.7L V6. Besides an upgraded alternator and battery not much is changed. The front suspension has been upgraded with a set of adjustable coilovers. These can raise the ride height by as much as four inches. In the rear are extended shocks and triangular A-arm mount. The tires are currently a modest 31-inches but there are future plans to upgrade to a larger set. However, as the Jeep sits now it does have a slightly aggressive and purposeful look. Finally bringing up the rear is an MBRP exhaust that gives the Jeep a nice growl without being overbearing.
Rooftop Tent
This is the piece that makes this Jeep Liberty KJ a true overlanding vehicle. The Roofnest Condor can accommodate up to three people. Simply climb up the ladder and you are treated to a comfortable mattress that you can spend the night on. There are also several windows that can be opened along with a number of bug nets to keep the critters out. It fits quite nicely on the Liberty and provides reasonable accommodations while you are spending time off the grid.
Conclusion
As we said up front the Jeep Liberty is not top of mind when it comes to overlanding rigs. However, as you can see in this video it can be a perfectly acceptable platform on which to build on. Best of all with the Liberty being less sought after than some other models these can be budget friendly builds. Check out the video below and see if this might be the Jeep for you.