Hi all,

I've got an X model JK Unlimited which I've been improving upon for a year or so now (side steps, fog lights, dual tops, etc added). The biggest change I've made so far is to upgrade the tires to ~33" (285 x 75 x 16) tires on rock crawler 16" steel wheels. (I've got the 4.10 gearing).

I don't plan to lift it in the near future, but I want to upgrade some components, mainly adding skid plates & a tire carrier bumper. Are there issues I should consider with the added weight?

 

Do you take it offroad?

 

remember when adding heavy bumpers and a winch you will lose some height. my guess would be that with 33's and front and rear bumpers your tires will now rub. have you thought about something mild like a 2 inch spacer kit just so you don't have any rubbing issues?

 

Absolutely-- but it's dirtroad-to-atv trail type offroading, and not rock crawling.

The most extreme offroading I've done thusfar was a trip up to a pond where we did a couple rock crawling-type spots; scraped the evaporator box enough that I'm buying the relocation kit! Also buying a transmission skid plate, as the factory crossmember got banged up in unfamiliar terrain.

 

I have a 2dr x with 33's (american eagle series 185 and Maxxis mudders) and no lift. I added a XHD stubby with stinger and winch. It dropped the front end about 1 inch. Nothing rubs on it but im sure my fenders will suffer if I flex (next weekend I will know for sure). Without that tire/wheel combo, im positive I would be scraping the hell out of stuff, especially with stock rims.

 

That's what I'm thinking I may have to do, but it's going to be awhile until I get the offroad front bumper of my dreams Hoping the transmission skid addition alone doesn't require it though.

Totally agree on the height those tires/wheels add-- that's why I wasn't in a hurry to get a lift right away. After my last wheeling adventure the side steps would have been trashed with the stock tires used. (will be taking them off altogether next time I try one of those trails!)

 

no the tranny skid shouldnt as automatics come with one that weighs about 30 pounds. (im guessing the one you purchase wont be much heavier) you are going to have to add about 100 pounds of equipment to drop an inch up front.

 

You are correct-- the transmission skid I've ordered is 77 lbs, so the net weight addition there is ~50lbs.

Today the 'other owner' of the Jeep flatly stated that we needed to get a front skid plate to replace the stupid plastic air dam as well (and who am I to argue? )... that MIGHT boost the weight enough that I should add 1" spacers in the front, which is good to know.

As for the rear, it looks like tire rubbing won't be nearly as big a consideration-- is that a good assumption?

 

Put a new muffler on.

 

thats a quality tranny skid if it weighs 77! i have the front skid from skidrow offroad. i bet it weighs 20 pounds. in all honesty though, unless you have the electronic disconnects that front skid plate is pretty much just for show. it may save your sway bar from some scratches.