I just had my gears done. I almost went to a local ring and pinion shop. I was a bit worried because it seems like a lot of guys who get their gears done by local R&P shops end up with lockers that don't work right. So after asking around someone recommended Ulimited Offroad Center in Fenton, MI.

I showed up at their shop and they probably had 15 - 20 customer jeeps on the lot. So it was pretty obvious they are pretty comfortable turning wrenches on jeeps.

Their prices were the lowest I was quoted. They were super helpful and got me in and out in less than a full day. The gears are quiet as can be and the lockers work as they should. But here's the kicker. When I picked the jeep up they said my ball joints were shot so they installed some ball joints they had taken off another JK with 4,500 miles on them.... NO CHARGE.

They also pointed out a couple of issues I hadn't noticed. It looks like my front shocks are contacting my frame while articulating. So I think some shock relocation brackets are in my future. Up until the gears I've done all my own wrenching so it was nice to have someone with a ton of experience take a look and give me some tips.

So if anyone's looking for a good shop give these guys a call! They are first rate.

 

Yea, I saw a bunch of rigs they had built up at the Jeep Blessing. Some really awesome Jeeps. My favorite by far was a TJ they had running 42s. Here's a pic of it. They had a really nice other TJ that was running 37s I think and was hitting the obstacles in front of me in line. Had awesome Walker Evans beadlocks, full body armor, and was really nicely built. Unfortunately, the driver of it was not the most skilled and even with lockers and an amazing Jeep he struggled going up the step stairs. My lockerless JK made it up after I got it rocking after about 3 tries. Not to brag, but I'm just saying...


But yeah, they are a great shop I have only heard that they are pricey for some of the work they do. And to anybody in southeastern Michigan, I highly recommend Jeeperz Creeperz. I can only comment about the work they did for me and they did an amazing job. Installed my lift (because I didn't have the time) and various other bits when I've been too lazy or didn't have the right tools. Kevin is the owner and he is great to deal with. He's really active in the Great Lakes 4wd Club or something like that and he does a lot to keep land open for us all to enjoy. But yeah, you Michigan guys have some great shops and great places to wheel. I miss parts of your state for sure...hope to be back a couple times each year!

 

Jeeperz Creeperz was the first place I called. I've also heard nothing but good things about them. But I think they might be a victim of their own success. When I called I was told there was a 2 month wait to get me in to install gears.

 

Does anyone know of a specialty shop like this on the west side of MI?

 

Ha, yeah that tends to happen alot. I have always been lucky with how I hit it, they had like a free week and then were booked for 2 months, that kind of deal. Also, just a tip I learned from going there, if you show up at their shop and talk to them in person, they might be able to fit you in sooner. However, gears might take an entire day or so to do so it's something he really doesn't like to rush. Good luck with wherever you decide!

 

The owner of this Jeep owns the party store that is a quarter of a mile from my house. Just a tidbit.

 

I can also say that Unlimited Offroad Centers in Fenton, MI is a great place to have work done. Went up there recently, great bunch of guys, answered all of my questions, had a few minutes to critique my lift install and everything. They know their stuff and are very professional. They had some AWESOME rigs outside too, not just Jeeps either, a sweet old Toyota Land Cruiser built up and restored and a International Scout project. Definitely worth stopping in if you're nearby.

 

How much did they charge for swapping gears?

 

These guys ROCK!