didn't want to interrupt the HK Vengenance build thread - why do some extreme builds stretch the wheelbase the way the team's stretching Vengenance? Always thought hard-core wheelers preferred 2dr JKs over JKUs because the shorter wheelbase makes them more maneuverable in tight quarters - now I see a bunch of serious 2dr builds with stretched wheelbases. What's the purpose? Thanks in advance

 

As you lift a vehicle significantly, the drivelines begin to have more and more severe angles. A longer wheelbase can reduce this.

Also, many feel that the "ideal" wheelbase for many trails is somewhere between the JK and the JKU so they move one or more axles out to dial in the perfect wheelbase for the lift and desired characteristics.

 

I was wondering the same thing... maybe it's something to do with the center of gravity??

Man, I loved my CJ5 - it had such a short wheelbase! I used to just head into the woods with it - no trail necessary because it was so maneuverable.

 

They usually go in between an unlimited and 2 door to add stability to it. The two doors get a big more tipsy on steep inclines.

I'm sure there are more factors like stability at speed as well.

 

Someone feel free to jump in if I'm wrong. I am a 2 door jeep driver. I also rock crawl it. It actually is my primary rock crawler. In the next couple months I will be stretching it. Looking to be at the 105 mark. When rock crawling and going up steep inclines, like waterfalls and such, the longer wheelbase does a couple of things. 1. More stable. The jeep won't flip over backwards as easy, that's big. Lol. 2. Stretching gets the front wheels to a better spot to try to grab traction. Why not a 4 door then you ask. Well more body to get hung up on. More weight, more damage and more money. If u were just trail riding, stay short. If u are climbing some serious ledges and such, stretch.
Perfect wheelbase length and depends on the person. Some say the 100-105 is best. Some go for the 110. Truth is, everyone wheels differently And in different areas. For me, I like the 105-110 max and will be riding on 40-42" tires. For someone on 35-37" 100 wheels base or slightly higher may be the better.