What are the best things to do for a stock Jeep on its first Jeep Jamboree
JK Super Freak
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 1,623
Likes: 5
From: Lawrenceville, NJ
In addition to the excellent advice already given:
Take a spray can of Silicone Spray, and spray your alternator thoroughly, into it through the vent holes, etc....then follow all the electrical parts/wires, etc....all the way to the spark plugs.
This does two things, it makes your electrical system more water resistant, and, makes the slurry of crap that you will be bathing in slough back off more easily...less likely to foul the brushes, etc, in the alternator, etc.
Go under the jeep, and LOOK at what's down there.
Where are your diffs?
What are the vulnerable places that you might hit?
If you have to go over a rock, stump, etc...what part of the jeep would be better to guide where, to avoid catching, snagging, breaking something?
Where are your lines and wires?
How does your coil seat?
etc.
Disconnect the front sway bar now. See how it comes apart, swing it out of the way, get a bungie cord or clamp, etc, to hold it out of the way - and make sure you are comfortable with the procedure you'll follow on the trail.....Apply anti-seize to the threads, and re-connect it. - This way, you've done it once, you know what's involved, and will have what you need with you, etc.
(While disco'd):
If you were to fully extend the F/R suspension, what would be stretched too tight? (use a hi-lift or other jack to see what happens under full droop, one side at a time)
If something gets tight, unclip it, make slack, and re-clip it in a better spot that gives the run a shortcut, to allow full articulation.
Look at the unseated coils, and the extended shocks...see what they look like now, before you broke them
- Seeing how your truck looks, now allows a frame of reference later, when you're scratching your head, saying, is that different?
Turn the wheel to full lock both ways, and look at what gets close to what. If the new tires are larger, and/or hit something, you can adjust the steering stops to prevent that.
Take some chalk, and make match marks on the rim/tire. When aired down, the tire can rotate on the rim, and you'll be out of balance on the ride home, etc....if you match marked, you can actually rotate the tire back to where it belongs before heading back out.
Well, that's all I've time for now.
Have Fun!
Take a spray can of Silicone Spray, and spray your alternator thoroughly, into it through the vent holes, etc....then follow all the electrical parts/wires, etc....all the way to the spark plugs.
This does two things, it makes your electrical system more water resistant, and, makes the slurry of crap that you will be bathing in slough back off more easily...less likely to foul the brushes, etc, in the alternator, etc.
Go under the jeep, and LOOK at what's down there.
Where are your diffs?
What are the vulnerable places that you might hit?
If you have to go over a rock, stump, etc...what part of the jeep would be better to guide where, to avoid catching, snagging, breaking something?
Where are your lines and wires?
How does your coil seat?
etc.
Disconnect the front sway bar now. See how it comes apart, swing it out of the way, get a bungie cord or clamp, etc, to hold it out of the way - and make sure you are comfortable with the procedure you'll follow on the trail.....Apply anti-seize to the threads, and re-connect it. - This way, you've done it once, you know what's involved, and will have what you need with you, etc.
(While disco'd):
If you were to fully extend the F/R suspension, what would be stretched too tight? (use a hi-lift or other jack to see what happens under full droop, one side at a time)
If something gets tight, unclip it, make slack, and re-clip it in a better spot that gives the run a shortcut, to allow full articulation.
Look at the unseated coils, and the extended shocks...see what they look like now, before you broke them
- Seeing how your truck looks, now allows a frame of reference later, when you're scratching your head, saying, is that different?Turn the wheel to full lock both ways, and look at what gets close to what. If the new tires are larger, and/or hit something, you can adjust the steering stops to prevent that.
Take some chalk, and make match marks on the rim/tire. When aired down, the tire can rotate on the rim, and you'll be out of balance on the ride home, etc....if you match marked, you can actually rotate the tire back to where it belongs before heading back out.
Well, that's all I've time for now.
Have Fun!
JK Junkie
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,498
Likes: 5
From: Long Island, NY
Great list. I did my first Jamboree in 2004 with my KJ. I had a BUNCH of armor underneath but otherwise, stock. My Liberty did a helluva job! I spent the day bumpin' and grindin'. Then got home and dropped $2k on lift, tires, and other goodies (yes, the bug will bite you!)
If you've never been off road before, you want to know and learn a few driving techniques:
- when wheeling, you always want to place your tires on it (it being rocks, stumps, etc), rather than strattle it. So PRACTICE putting yout tire just where you want it. Go to an empty parking lot, place bricks around and practice putting tires on them as you go over them. Both right and left sides.
- also, as previously said, get to know your undercarriage. In the KJ, it was the front A arms and rear diff as my lowest points. Since I'm new to the JK, I'll have to do this as well. (In fact, what are the lowest points on the JK? Front and rear diffs?)
- did anyone mention carrying a fire extenguisher? The JJUSA literature talks about min requirements as were already mentioned (recovery points being #1, tow straps also - no metal hooks!)
- bug repellent
- a cooler (STRAPPED DOWN!)
Let's see what else wasn't mentioned already,
- CB is a must. Really. You'll be in the Jeep many hours. It's a lot more fun when you can talk to everyone else. Even a cheap handheld unit will work a little.
- camera!!!
- boots
- changes of clothes
- extra cash. If you do break something, often times there's a local mechanic on hand to do repairs - sometimes right on sight to get you back on the trail the next day.
- and the biggest one of all..... WD40. Like the silicone mentioned earlier, it's got many uses.
a few more:
- hi lift jack has many uses. If your'e stock, it's not as needed of course.
- can of fix a flat
- tire plug kit
- tarp to put down in case you have to get under the jeep
- a board to put down in case you have to jack in soft pavement (I use MDF, it's strong!)
- loosen all your lugs AT HOME and then torque them by hand. You do not want to find an over-torqued lug on the trail in 2' of mud. Also, remove those locking lug nuts and replace with stock ones for the trip.
- hmm, read the Mark Smith book they have available for off roading driving techniques.
- practice getting it into 4WD Lo. If you have a Rubi, practice using lockers. I've seen many a Rubi get embarrassed by my KJ when they tried an obstacle that I just cleared and they got stuck because they weren't locked. ooooops!
- read about how to use a tow strap!
- and winch.
(so that you know when to stay the HECK away as others are doing it wrong!!!!!!)
When someone is winching, take a good look at how much cable is out. 25'? Then make sure you're AT LEAST 25' away IN ANY DIRECTION. I wheel with my two young sons. Both started at age 3. They love to watch the winching and strapping. I pull them away kicking and screaming! I don't feel like explaining that to the wife!!!! Seriously, people winch to some home made bumper and next thing you know big heavy metal parts are flying around killing people.
- Which brings up the next bit of safety advice... PEOPLE! There are a lot of DUMB ones out there! LIST TO YOUR TRAIL GUIDES!!! If someone else is giving you advice that you're not comfortable with, DON'T take it. Call for the guide on your new CB!
I've noticed that some Guides take a very passive roll. Others jump right in. But ALL will respond to your request for help. DO NOT BE SHY! Ask for a spotter if you need it. I got my KJ through my first Jamboree with the help of GREAT spotters! I earned a reputation in the Northeast as being a pretty capable KJ, but truth be told, I probably simply listened to the guides better than most.
I really can go on for hours. But I'll stop now. These events are A TON of fun. The best ones are the ones with happy endings and fun stories. Don't get hurt, and ideally, try not to break anything. But if you do, no biggie on that. It just makes for more fun tales. Hence the web site that was created (for which I write reviews for) JeepTales.com.
If you've never been off road before, you want to know and learn a few driving techniques:
- when wheeling, you always want to place your tires on it (it being rocks, stumps, etc), rather than strattle it. So PRACTICE putting yout tire just where you want it. Go to an empty parking lot, place bricks around and practice putting tires on them as you go over them. Both right and left sides.
- also, as previously said, get to know your undercarriage. In the KJ, it was the front A arms and rear diff as my lowest points. Since I'm new to the JK, I'll have to do this as well. (In fact, what are the lowest points on the JK? Front and rear diffs?)
- did anyone mention carrying a fire extenguisher? The JJUSA literature talks about min requirements as were already mentioned (recovery points being #1, tow straps also - no metal hooks!)
- bug repellent
- a cooler (STRAPPED DOWN!)
Let's see what else wasn't mentioned already,
- CB is a must. Really. You'll be in the Jeep many hours. It's a lot more fun when you can talk to everyone else. Even a cheap handheld unit will work a little.
- camera!!!
- boots
- changes of clothes
- extra cash. If you do break something, often times there's a local mechanic on hand to do repairs - sometimes right on sight to get you back on the trail the next day.
- and the biggest one of all..... WD40. Like the silicone mentioned earlier, it's got many uses.
a few more:
- hi lift jack has many uses. If your'e stock, it's not as needed of course.
- can of fix a flat
- tire plug kit
- tarp to put down in case you have to get under the jeep
- a board to put down in case you have to jack in soft pavement (I use MDF, it's strong!)
- loosen all your lugs AT HOME and then torque them by hand. You do not want to find an over-torqued lug on the trail in 2' of mud. Also, remove those locking lug nuts and replace with stock ones for the trip.
- hmm, read the Mark Smith book they have available for off roading driving techniques.
- practice getting it into 4WD Lo. If you have a Rubi, practice using lockers. I've seen many a Rubi get embarrassed by my KJ when they tried an obstacle that I just cleared and they got stuck because they weren't locked. ooooops!
- read about how to use a tow strap!
- and winch.
(so that you know when to stay the HECK away as others are doing it wrong!!!!!!)
When someone is winching, take a good look at how much cable is out. 25'? Then make sure you're AT LEAST 25' away IN ANY DIRECTION. I wheel with my two young sons. Both started at age 3. They love to watch the winching and strapping. I pull them away kicking and screaming! I don't feel like explaining that to the wife!!!! Seriously, people winch to some home made bumper and next thing you know big heavy metal parts are flying around killing people.
- Which brings up the next bit of safety advice... PEOPLE! There are a lot of DUMB ones out there! LIST TO YOUR TRAIL GUIDES!!! If someone else is giving you advice that you're not comfortable with, DON'T take it. Call for the guide on your new CB!
I've noticed that some Guides take a very passive roll. Others jump right in. But ALL will respond to your request for help. DO NOT BE SHY! Ask for a spotter if you need it. I got my KJ through my first Jamboree with the help of GREAT spotters! I earned a reputation in the Northeast as being a pretty capable KJ, but truth be told, I probably simply listened to the guides better than most.
I really can go on for hours. But I'll stop now. These events are A TON of fun. The best ones are the ones with happy endings and fun stories. Don't get hurt, and ideally, try not to break anything. But if you do, no biggie on that. It just makes for more fun tales. Hence the web site that was created (for which I write reviews for) JeepTales.com.
Last edited by adamisadam; Mar 11, 2009 at 07:48 PM.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 301
Likes: 1
From: Thee Great Pacific Northwest, US
Great thread... Bump. A jj rookie chimes in-
Well, since it's now February, people are probably starting to make plans for trail runs & jamboree's.
This thread is great. I wanted to present a question: I have gone wheelin plenty in my life but have never gone on a jamboree event before. I most certainly am a rookie by any comparison but I am doing the Naches Trail run in July and am curious how to prepare my JK.
Where I'm at now (what I have already installed in the last 3 years):
2008 JKu Sahara (daily driver)
2.5" BB lift
32" bfg MT's
Stock D30 front axle
Dana44 with Trac-Lok rear axle
-I already have fire Ext, first aid, tow straps 3" x30, tow points, 48" Hi-Lift & good tools-
In order of safety & importance where do I begin?
1. CB ($100? What's a good, portable unit?)
2. Side rock rails ($299)
3. Oil pan armor ($120)
4. Dif covers ($60 ea.)
5. Evap canister skid ($109)
6. Teraflex quick disconnect? ($110)
7. Air compressor (cheap one from walmart? $75)
8. Mopar front rock bumper w/winch ($600)
9. Warn 8k winch ($500)
10. Mopar rear bumper ($600)
It's my DD and I'll have a 9 year old with me (hence my heavy list of armor & protection).
Any advice for a newb
This thread is great. I wanted to present a question: I have gone wheelin plenty in my life but have never gone on a jamboree event before. I most certainly am a rookie by any comparison but I am doing the Naches Trail run in July and am curious how to prepare my JK.
Where I'm at now (what I have already installed in the last 3 years):
2008 JKu Sahara (daily driver)
2.5" BB lift
32" bfg MT's
Stock D30 front axle
Dana44 with Trac-Lok rear axle
-I already have fire Ext, first aid, tow straps 3" x30, tow points, 48" Hi-Lift & good tools-
In order of safety & importance where do I begin?
1. CB ($100? What's a good, portable unit?)
2. Side rock rails ($299)
3. Oil pan armor ($120)
4. Dif covers ($60 ea.)
5. Evap canister skid ($109)
6. Teraflex quick disconnect? ($110)
7. Air compressor (cheap one from walmart? $75)
8. Mopar front rock bumper w/winch ($600)
9. Warn 8k winch ($500)
10. Mopar rear bumper ($600)
It's my DD and I'll have a 9 year old with me (hence my heavy list of armor & protection).
Any advice for a newb
Last edited by RescueGreen#3; Feb 5, 2011 at 08:27 AM.
JK Super Freak
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,460
Likes: 1
From: Simi Valley, Ca., Taylorsville, Ut. and places in between
Mine is basically still stock and hasnt made it off road as of yet.
Already carry fire extinguisher and shovel.
Only changes are:
1. CB and Ham radio
2. Side rock rails (Soon to be installed)
3. Underside armor (soon)
4. Air compressor (Harbor Freight Special)
Already carry fire extinguisher and shovel.
Only changes are:
1. CB and Ham radio
2. Side rock rails (Soon to be installed)
3. Underside armor (soon)
4. Air compressor (Harbor Freight Special)
JK Freak
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 815
Likes: 1
From: Cody, Wyoming
2. Mopar front rock bumper w/winch ($600)
2. Warn 8k winch ($500)
3. Side rock rails ($299)
4. Teraflex quick disconnect? ($110)
5. Air compressor (cheap one from walmart? $75)
Think about some rubi rail take-offs. They are actually really good and can be had pretty cheap. The other thing is a cheap air compressor will be really slow and will not last long.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 330
Likes: 0
From: Evansville, IN
Thinking about a JJ too!
Awesome thread with lots of good info.
I must admit I really want to go to a JJ too, but am a bit nervous about it. I live in south western indiana, so I have lots of options, French Lick, LBL, Cumberland, East TN, Badlands. I am just worried that the 3-4 rated trails will not be rookie enough for this rookie
I have 33"s and the dealer put on a 1.75" spacer lift, I have also put LOD sliders on Blue, but other than that not much else.
If anyone has been to a JJ and could provide more info on what I am likely to run into or across that would be great! I was thinking of going to French Lick this fall and I would like to do one this spring or summer as well...
Thanks,
Melissa
I must admit I really want to go to a JJ too, but am a bit nervous about it. I live in south western indiana, so I have lots of options, French Lick, LBL, Cumberland, East TN, Badlands. I am just worried that the 3-4 rated trails will not be rookie enough for this rookie
I have 33"s and the dealer put on a 1.75" spacer lift, I have also put LOD sliders on Blue, but other than that not much else.If anyone has been to a JJ and could provide more info on what I am likely to run into or across that would be great! I was thinking of going to French Lick this fall and I would like to do one this spring or summer as well...
Thanks,
Melissa
JK Freak
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 753
Likes: 0
From: NY
There is a ton of great info in this thread. It has been mentioned already but I'll repeat it....Rock Rails / Sliders. What ever you want to call them. If this your first off road adventure, learn the value of them while they are bolted to your jeep....not while your sitting in the body shop saying...what the hell did i do to my new jeep? We could go on for days about what you should have but you'll upgrade and modify a little bit at a time. I would also consider ordering the Woods/Jeep Swag Evap canister relocation kit. Its a great investment and it'll get you checking things out under the jeep
http://www.jeepswag.com/jeep_jk_evap...tion/index.htm
http://www.jeepswag.com/jeep_jk_evap...tion/index.htm
