I had two sets, factory chrome and Amazon black. I stripped down and painted the chrome ones.
A Second Chance at the TJ
- Thread starter Tob
- Start date
I installed the Flowmaster y-pipe yesterday to combat the P0432 code I've had for a while (Main catalyst efficiency below threshold -Bank 2). And well, well, well, look what I found in bank 2 - nothing! 
Bank 1 for reference:
And the new Flowmaster pre-cats:
Overall everything went pretty smoothly - a rare occurrence when I wrench. After everything I had read about rusted, seized, and hard to reach pre-cat bolts, I was worried I would have some trouble. Either those guys don't know what they're talking about or I got lucky. I sprayed the bolts with some Kroil penetrating oil per Jerry's recommendation, and let it soak for a minute, and the bolts came right out. They weren't hard to reach, and I don't see why people say they had to remove the fender. I got all of them from underneath with a couple of long extensions. The Flowmaster ones were a bit harder to get a socket on because the heat shields are larger, though.
I also replaced all the O2 sensors. Hopefully I'll see the code go away and maybe a small increase in fuel efficiency.
And just for fun,
https://wranglertjforum.com/threads...-an-open-header-4-0-sounds.47862/#post-823913
Bank 1 for reference:
And the new Flowmaster pre-cats:
Overall everything went pretty smoothly - a rare occurrence when I wrench. After everything I had read about rusted, seized, and hard to reach pre-cat bolts, I was worried I would have some trouble. Either those guys don't know what they're talking about or I got lucky. I sprayed the bolts with some Kroil penetrating oil per Jerry's recommendation, and let it soak for a minute, and the bolts came right out. They weren't hard to reach, and I don't see why people say they had to remove the fender. I got all of them from underneath with a couple of long extensions. The Flowmaster ones were a bit harder to get a socket on because the heat shields are larger, though.
I also replaced all the O2 sensors. Hopefully I'll see the code go away and maybe a small increase in fuel efficiency.
And just for fun,
https://wranglertjforum.com/threads...-an-open-header-4-0-sounds.47862/#post-823913
Fughuert
TJ Enthusiast
I've seen others do and personally have cut that little piece of metal between the zerk fittings and the threads in your image, that way your trackbar gets a little more droop before binding, no ill affects in my experience.
I'll be doing my cats this weekend on my lj, hopefully it goes as smooth as yours. I can hear them rattling under acceleration and I need to pass emissions in the next 50 days.
The only reason I removed the bracket is so I would have less to do when it comes time for the tuck... so only temporary. I have the angled bracket and control arms. Just waiting on fedex to bring me the under armor.
side note to what starkey said about the track bar being in a neutral position: when dropped the track bar down to the stock bracket, I was amazed at how much more unstable the Jeep felt.
@Fughuert I’d recommend a wobble attachment if you’ve got one, and just go straight up on either side of the driveshaft with a few long extensions.
side note to what starkey said about the track bar being in a neutral position: when dropped the track bar down to the stock bracket, I was amazed at how much more unstable the Jeep felt.
@Fughuert I’d recommend a wobble attachment if you’ve got one, and just go straight up on either side of the driveshaft with a few long extensions.
This may be a dumb question but can you turn the track bar end so the grease zerk is pointing down?
Not a dumb question! I considered the same thing when installing it but it looked like there was even less clearance underneath
I've been a busy bee getting ready for Moab. It's gonna be cutting it really close, but I can do it.
Since my last post, I've installed the Savvy under armor with engine skid, all Savvy control arms, Rockjock angled trackbar bracket, K Suspension remanufactured 12-port injectors, and rear Rockjock bumpstops.
I've been riding around in FWD since I installed the tummy tuck, but I finally ordered Tom Woods driveshafts last night. I also had exhaust work done after the tummy tuck. I'm not happy at all with what I got. Hard lesson learned, but I will have to fix it up at a later time.
Good news! The injectors fixed my long start fuel pressure leak down issue! It's nice to have it start right up now.
I've got a few more things I need to get done before I'm road-trip-ready. Front axle seals and U joints, rear main seal, front bumpstops, and locker pump relocation.
I decided to not be a Citizens Band Insurgent, so I picked up this set of Midland GMRS radios for the trip. Don't tell Chris, but I'm leaving the CB in there, for old (dare I say archaic?) times' sake.
I am in dire need of some new shocks, but I don't know if I'll have time. I really wanted to have onboard air for the trip, so I ordered a Viair 400H-Automatic from Truckspring.com, but instead of listing that they were out of stock, they were advertised to ship in 2-3 days. So I will most likely be bumming air off of all my accomplices. If I had enough time, I'd put 33's on too. That will for sure have to wait.
Really getting into the crunch time. I'll be leaving a week from today for Moab
Oh and P.S., F you too, Stanley.
Obligatory quick tool rant:
People look at this and say, "Oh, well it's got "X" warranty, just bring it to such and such place and get a free replacement!". Could I have brought it somewhere to get a free replacement? Probably. Did I? No, I chunked that crap in the trash can. I don't want another one. I want tools I can rely on. Take your cheap tools and warranty and shove it where the sun don't shine. What if my ratchet pulls a stunt like this on the trail? Side of the interstate? I'll say it again. I want tools I can rely on, not dispensable ones I can replace.
Since my last post, I've installed the Savvy under armor with engine skid, all Savvy control arms, Rockjock angled trackbar bracket, K Suspension remanufactured 12-port injectors, and rear Rockjock bumpstops.
I've been riding around in FWD since I installed the tummy tuck, but I finally ordered Tom Woods driveshafts last night. I also had exhaust work done after the tummy tuck. I'm not happy at all with what I got. Hard lesson learned, but I will have to fix it up at a later time.
Good news! The injectors fixed my long start fuel pressure leak down issue! It's nice to have it start right up now.
I've got a few more things I need to get done before I'm road-trip-ready. Front axle seals and U joints, rear main seal, front bumpstops, and locker pump relocation.
I decided to not be a Citizens Band Insurgent, so I picked up this set of Midland GMRS radios for the trip. Don't tell Chris, but I'm leaving the CB in there, for old (dare I say archaic?) times' sake.
I am in dire need of some new shocks, but I don't know if I'll have time. I really wanted to have onboard air for the trip, so I ordered a Viair 400H-Automatic from Truckspring.com, but instead of listing that they were out of stock, they were advertised to ship in 2-3 days. So I will most likely be bumming air off of all my accomplices. If I had enough time, I'd put 33's on too. That will for sure have to wait.
Really getting into the crunch time. I'll be leaving a week from today for Moab
Oh and P.S., F you too, Stanley.
Obligatory quick tool rant:
People look at this and say, "Oh, well it's got "X" warranty, just bring it to such and such place and get a free replacement!". Could I have brought it somewhere to get a free replacement? Probably. Did I? No, I chunked that crap in the trash can. I don't want another one. I want tools I can rely on. Take your cheap tools and warranty and shove it where the sun don't shine. What if my ratchet pulls a stunt like this on the trail? Side of the interstate? I'll say it again. I want tools I can rely on, not dispensable ones I can replace.
Rear main seal is changed! This was probably the most daunting project I've attempted on this Jeep. Turns out it's easier than it seems. The key to 'big' jobs like this is doing your homework beforehand so that you are prepared with the correct parts, tools, and procedure. Fingers crossed that it doesn't start leaking. I'll be keeping an eye on it.
I swapped in a new Mopar oil pan to replace the damaged one, and added a Stahlbus oil drain valve while I was at it. I never thought I'd be excited about changing oil, but I can't wait to try it out!
I swapped in a new Mopar oil pan to replace the damaged one, and added a Stahlbus oil drain valve while I was at it. I never thought I'd be excited about changing oil, but I can't wait to try it out!
At the beckoning of a fellow forum member, I finally got around to cleaning up that sketchy headlight wiring. I'll add wire loom later.
-idiot
Well, you can imagine my reaction when I saw oil leaking out the new seal like there’s no tomorrow...
Lessons learned: don’t celebrate early and don’t tackle big jobs right before big trips!
I haven't had much free time since I got back from TJ Fest, but before I forget, I want to write down some post-Moab thoughts about how the TJ performed and what I learned.
Wheeling in Moab was amazing. Having good grip lets you take on obstacles with more control. I was impressed with what I was able to take on considering tire size and overall mild level of build.
A tummy tuck is an extremely desirable upgrade. Going from a Rubicon transfer case skid with a 1" drop to a high clearance tuck is an astonishing difference in clearance. I had the confidence to slide down tall ledges without worrying about getting hung up on the Shovel or damaging the transmission and oil pan. In fact, I only barely touched those skids very few times the whole week - not to mention, while on 31 1/2" tires.
Driver skill makes all the difference. As I mentioned elsewhere, we saw driver skill levels and build levels all across the whole spectrum. It was interesting to watch technique, line choice, and how in touch the driver was with their rig play a huge part in what they could accomplish.
Some specific notes about my TJ:
I had all the approach angle and belly clearance I ever needed. I only barely scraped the front bumper and belly skids on the most extreme obstacles.
I hit the gas tank skid VERY often, mostly when coming down ledges. Interestingly, as bulky as it is, I did not hit my rear bumper that much; the gas tank skid nearly always hit first
I lacked departure angle on a few steep climbs I tried. I will soon be ditching the tire carrier bumper and adding a SWAG or Next Venture rear bumper, and most likely putting a smaller spare inside.
Overall, I had zero body damage and only bumped the rocker panels once.
I did not have time to set my bumpstops before the trip. I had a full Rockjock bumpstop kit in the rear, which left me with only about 3" of uptravel, and none in the front. I was worried about the front, but the only contact was the Rockjock trackbar lightly rubbing on the stock differential cover, and the tires hitting the metal fender.
The rear main seal leak was either not as bad as I first thought, or it slowed down after a few days. I didn't have to add much oil, but the undercarriage is A MESS!
I spent the whole week trying increasingly difficult trails, and taking, or at least making an attempt at, nearly all the hard lines I could find - with a few exceptions (Escalator, hot tubs, Widowmaker, The Fall). With the exception of lacking wheelbase for some lines on some obstacles, I did not find the limit until the last day on Metal Masher, where I was lacking tire size and departure angle. Overall, I'm really happy with how my TJ performed, even though it was not really ready for this trip.
My next main focus will be cycling the suspension and setting bumpstops correctly, then replacing the shocks with something of higher quality and correct length and travel.
Wheeling in Moab was amazing. Having good grip lets you take on obstacles with more control. I was impressed with what I was able to take on considering tire size and overall mild level of build.
A tummy tuck is an extremely desirable upgrade. Going from a Rubicon transfer case skid with a 1" drop to a high clearance tuck is an astonishing difference in clearance. I had the confidence to slide down tall ledges without worrying about getting hung up on the Shovel or damaging the transmission and oil pan. In fact, I only barely touched those skids very few times the whole week - not to mention, while on 31 1/2" tires.
Driver skill makes all the difference. As I mentioned elsewhere, we saw driver skill levels and build levels all across the whole spectrum. It was interesting to watch technique, line choice, and how in touch the driver was with their rig play a huge part in what they could accomplish.
Some specific notes about my TJ:
I had all the approach angle and belly clearance I ever needed. I only barely scraped the front bumper and belly skids on the most extreme obstacles.
I hit the gas tank skid VERY often, mostly when coming down ledges. Interestingly, as bulky as it is, I did not hit my rear bumper that much; the gas tank skid nearly always hit first
I lacked departure angle on a few steep climbs I tried. I will soon be ditching the tire carrier bumper and adding a SWAG or Next Venture rear bumper, and most likely putting a smaller spare inside.
Overall, I had zero body damage and only bumped the rocker panels once.
I did not have time to set my bumpstops before the trip. I had a full Rockjock bumpstop kit in the rear, which left me with only about 3" of uptravel, and none in the front. I was worried about the front, but the only contact was the Rockjock trackbar lightly rubbing on the stock differential cover, and the tires hitting the metal fender.
The rear main seal leak was either not as bad as I first thought, or it slowed down after a few days. I didn't have to add much oil, but the undercarriage is A MESS!
I spent the whole week trying increasingly difficult trails, and taking, or at least making an attempt at, nearly all the hard lines I could find - with a few exceptions (Escalator, hot tubs, Widowmaker, The Fall). With the exception of lacking wheelbase for some lines on some obstacles, I did not find the limit until the last day on Metal Masher, where I was lacking tire size and departure angle. Overall, I'm really happy with how my TJ performed, even though it was not really ready for this trip.
My next main focus will be cycling the suspension and setting bumpstops correctly, then replacing the shocks with something of higher quality and correct length and travel.
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Toby - you were an absolute beast in Moab. It was great wheelin’ with you. I was constantly amazed at the stuff you could get your rig to climb. You were always taking the tough lines, and getting up and down obstacles no one else was even trying. I’m glad I had the chance to meet and wheel with you.
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Case in point. This ledge is a bit more gnarly than it looks:
Here is one one of me trying to follow Toby's line - after he made it look easy:
And trying to keep up with him once again.,.
Here is Toby coming up what I call "The Widowmaker Gatekeeper." Again, making it look easy. This one is genuinely scary with a nasty off camber to the right toward a huge dropoff. Toby did not sweat it, and crawled right up.
Here is one one of me trying to follow Toby's line - after he made it look easy:
And trying to keep up with him once again.,.
Here is Toby coming up what I call "The Widowmaker Gatekeeper." Again, making it look easy. This one is genuinely scary with a nasty off camber to the right toward a huge dropoff. Toby did not sweat it, and crawled right up.
And here is one more that I will post. This is not Toby, but rather me coming down this nasty ledge on Metal Masher.
I put this here because I watched Toby climb UP this obstacle, taking about the same line I came down. Unfortunately, I did not get a video. Man, Toby has a set:
I put this here because I watched Toby climb UP this obstacle, taking about the same line I came down. Unfortunately, I did not get a video. Man, Toby has a set:
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Thanks for the kind words! Glad I could wheel with y’all too! I was definitely pushing it that week!
The next round of changes is here for my TJ.
I pulled the trigger on a new bumper on a July 4th sale. So I sold the LoD rear bumper and tire carrier today, dropping 110 lbs, plus the spare (~50 lbs), which was a noticeable difference. Good riddance! The Next Venture bumper that's replacing it only weighs 21 lbs. The receiver hitch on the LoD stuck out about 7.5" from the tub, while the Next Venture will only be about 3/4" off the tub (no hitch). I may follow jjvw's modifications and add a recessed receiver hitch to it down the road.
I also scored a nice deal on a set of new MCE fenders on Marketplace. Can't wait to get them on! I've been running around flareless since TJ Fest after I sold my flares to Vasq.
I've committed to fully removing the rear seat. I took the brackets and rear seat belts out too, and ordered a Tuffy cargo drawer that will sit in its place and replace the awkward instatrunk. I won't be putting the spare back on the tailgate - no exogate either. Considering I've got onboard air and a tire plug kit, I have no qualms about running without a spare on-road. For off-road trips, I plan to have it inside, secured on top of the Tuffy box.
I pulled the trigger on a new bumper on a July 4th sale. So I sold the LoD rear bumper and tire carrier today, dropping 110 lbs, plus the spare (~50 lbs), which was a noticeable difference. Good riddance! The Next Venture bumper that's replacing it only weighs 21 lbs. The receiver hitch on the LoD stuck out about 7.5" from the tub, while the Next Venture will only be about 3/4" off the tub (no hitch). I may follow jjvw's modifications and add a recessed receiver hitch to it down the road.
I also scored a nice deal on a set of new MCE fenders on Marketplace. Can't wait to get them on! I've been running around flareless since TJ Fest after I sold my flares to Vasq.
I've committed to fully removing the rear seat. I took the brackets and rear seat belts out too, and ordered a Tuffy cargo drawer that will sit in its place and replace the awkward instatrunk. I won't be putting the spare back on the tailgate - no exogate either. Considering I've got onboard air and a tire plug kit, I have no qualms about running without a spare on-road. For off-road trips, I plan to have it inside, secured on top of the Tuffy box.
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Well, I really channeled my inner Helen Keller this weekend...
Just as @jjvw said, a high clearance bumper jeopardizes the tub and introduces the need for corner armor. On the bright side, it was really nice to come down ledges without slamming the bumper every single time. The gas tank skid is now taking almost all the hits, if any.
I also discovered the importance of having wheelwell-to-wheelwell rocker protection.
I was out at Hidden Falls for a day and a half and ran nearly every trail in the park. I finally ventured into difficult enough terrain to really put the skids to use. The front bumper, steering box protection, engine/transmission skid, and transfer case skid all got a lot of use and performed really well. Just as I feared, I managed to dent that stupid low-hanging muffler that the exhaust shop put in. I started dragging things I usually don't touch, like sliders, body mounts, driveshaft, under armor. Overall, it was a great trip. Being more confident with the under armor and developing better driver skills, I'm eager to get back to Hot Springs ORV park soon and try some harder trails there.
Just as @jjvw said, a high clearance bumper jeopardizes the tub and introduces the need for corner armor. On the bright side, it was really nice to come down ledges without slamming the bumper every single time. The gas tank skid is now taking almost all the hits, if any.
I also discovered the importance of having wheelwell-to-wheelwell rocker protection.
I was out at Hidden Falls for a day and a half and ran nearly every trail in the park. I finally ventured into difficult enough terrain to really put the skids to use. The front bumper, steering box protection, engine/transmission skid, and transfer case skid all got a lot of use and performed really well. Just as I feared, I managed to dent that stupid low-hanging muffler that the exhaust shop put in. I started dragging things I usually don't touch, like sliders, body mounts, driveshaft, under armor. Overall, it was a great trip. Being more confident with the under armor and developing better driver skills, I'm eager to get back to Hot Springs ORV park soon and try some harder trails there.
gasiorv
I'm a new world samurai, and a redneck nonetheless
Supporting Member
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I am really hoping to join, but it will depend on how school is going and if I’m comfortable taking off for that weekend. I won’t know for sure until it gets closer.
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