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Factory Rake - Any real advantages?

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Old 09-01-2010, 03:40 PM
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Default Factory Rake - Any real advantages?

I'm about to step up to my first lift (Tera!) and was asked today if I want to maintain rake.

Is there any aerodynamic/performance/mechanical advantage to the rake? Thoughts anyone?
Old 09-01-2010, 03:46 PM
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I think that the Rake on the JK is a conspiracy between Chrysler and the Urethane and Coil spring industry. Designed for the sole purpose of separating the consumer from their hard earned cash.
Old 09-01-2010, 03:48 PM
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I do not know for certain, but there almost certainly has to be some reason the JK engineers raked the front. My guess would be to improve fuel economy.

When I installed my lift (Rough Country) it leveled my Jeep. And I haven't looked back since.

I say level it.

Last edited by u-joint; 09-01-2010 at 03:50 PM.
Old 09-01-2010, 04:01 PM
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I'm sure this is not the reason for the amount of rake the stock JK has, but it certainly is a consequence of eliminating the rake ... hood flap! Do away with the factory rake and you loose downforce on the hood, and then the hood flaps like a big bird at 80+ mph. There are other ways to eliminate hood flap than increasing rake though. There are a few companies make stonger hood latch straps that don't have as much stretch in them.
Old 09-01-2010, 04:06 PM
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1. Aerodynamics. Quieter air flow over the Jeep. Lower pressure under the Jeep.

2. So it is closer to level when loaded.
Old 09-01-2010, 06:13 PM
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The rake is there for the sleek high performance aerodynamics that have been a mainstay of the jeep wrangler over the years. The 0-60mph 60second barrier prolly wouldn't have ever been broken without it.
Old 09-01-2010, 06:23 PM
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People laugh when aerodynamics is brought up. But, that's exactly why the windshield has a curve to it now. It quiets the air flow over the windshield.
Old 09-01-2010, 06:27 PM
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level it
Old 09-01-2010, 06:30 PM
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Originally Posted by ronjenx
1. Aerodynamics. Quieter air flow over the Jeep. Lower pressure under the Jeep.

2. So it is closer to level when loaded.
Ding ding ding!

As usual Ron gets a cookie!
Old 09-01-2010, 06:33 PM
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Chocolate chip, with a glass of cold milk, please.


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