Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

What did you do to your TJ today?

There is no level they won't stoop to in order to copy stuff, is there? And it isn't like the original is that expensive either.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JBO58FM?tag=wranglerorg-20

I can tell you from lots of use, only use a hand ratchet on it with a 1/4" socket that has a deep enough hex to jump over the groove and get both hexes on the drive shaft. Or not because if you don't, you will twist off the first one and then you don't have to worry about how deep the socket is. A power tool blows these up with a quickness. Blew up the first one in a few sets. Switched to hand ratchet and have done 100's without an issue. They are handy for a few at a time. Pretty slow if you have to do a bunch.

Serious thanks for the recommendation on this tool @mrblaine . I just set (10) M6 half hex rivnuts in the bottom of my tub with ease using it. I've used much larger setters in the past but this thing just works and does so in close quarters, something many tools out there can't.

I can only hope the rivstud/studsert tool works as well. 👍
 
Serious thanks for the recommendation on this tool @mrblaine . I just set (10) M6 half hex rivnuts in the bottom of my tub with ease using it. I've used much larger setters in the past but this thing just works and does so in close quarters, something many tools out there can't.

I can only hope the rivstud/studsert tool works as well. 👍
You are welcome. It does work very well with a hand ratchet. I rigged up a drill motor side handle that clamps around the body if I have to do the larger rivets since the body needs a lot of grip to stop from turning to start setting them. We don't use it for normal stuff but under the body and dash when you're not in the best place to hold it is when it helps.
 
It does work very well with a hand ratchet.

I think this is the key, you get much better feel as it clenches the metal and likely won't overpower the insert or break a mandrel as a result. I even choked up on my 1/4" ratchet handle a bit just to reduce the leverage available. I have a history being hamfisted and overpowering shit.

I rigged up a drill motor side handle that clamps around the body if I have to do the larger rivets

Good idea, need to look into doing this.
 
Last edited:
Finished two projects today on my 99. I dropped my gas tank to swap the stock skid with a late model skid I bought off @Dev who also helped me weld it after trimming it to raise it an inch. While I had the tank out I took advantage and also installed a jks rear adjustable track bar that I got for a steal as an open box item on Extreme Terrain a few months back.

This was much needed, the stock skid doesn't completely cover the tank and mine was beat to hell.

PXL_20250809_040613282.jpg


PXL_20250809_181214393.jpg


Here's the new to me skid. Thanks again for the help with the welds @Dev. 👍

PXL_20250804_231815570.PORTRAIT.jpg


PXL_20250804_231830257.PORTRAIT.jpg


Primed and painted it before install.

PXL_20250804_231759550.jpg


Here she is all buttoned up.

PXL_20250809_225759803.jpg


PXL_20250809_225749769.jpg
 
I will say that I think it will. The bag is about 1.5-2x bigger than the Bestop. Granted the material on the RG is heavier, I think it will fold into the bag better since it is bigger.

The RG also has A LOT better straps and no elastic.

I've had two, and a Bestop - No question the RG is a better top.

The bag is easier to fit, but I only used mine at home and didn't really use the bag.
 
I've had two, and a Bestop - No question the RG is a better top.

The bag is easier to fit, but I only used mine at home and didn't really use the bag.
I probably will not use the bag much; probably just at home when the Jeep has the soft top on it. The RG I will fold up and stuff in the rear compartment of the crawler hauler while on the trail.
 
  • Like
Reactions: John Cooper
When I rewound my winch cable on my new-to-me “99 I felt several kinks and a few frayed wires. Today I smoothed out my rollers with emery cloth and wound 93’ of new 3/8 synthetic line onto the drum. I’m still not happy with the feel of the rollers so a new Hawse is on order to give me something to do on Monday.

IMG_1667.jpeg
 
YES! Hands down the best. We lived in the neighborhood for many years. Way better than any chain and we always get it when we’re back in town.

I'll have to try it in a couple weeks when I'm in town.

I ain't going back to try it.... I'll just take y'alls word for it!!!! :ROFLMAO: :ROFLMAO:
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts