Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

Time for Phase 2 build options - looking for advice

Liv2Ryd

TJ Enthusiast
Original poster
Supporting Member
Joined
May 7, 2020
Messages
132
Location
Sutton MA
I planning phase 2 of my 06 TJR 4.0, 42LRE build. Phase 1 included Revolution 5:38 gears. Savvy steering and sliders (which are fuckin awesome btw), UCF Al engine skid, Black Magic brakes/rotors, Synergy weld on control arm skids, Rock Hard dif guards with stock Dana 44 dif covers, Metalcloak adj lower control arms and bunch of other stuff like upgraded stereo, winch etc....

I'm on 35's with a 4" RE lift kit and this rig is a blast to wheel. I'm getting more confident each time I take it out. Phase 2 options include:
1. UCF Transfer case skid - thinking of going no lift skid, 3/8" Aluminum. I don't have a BL or MML. They claim it raises the skid 1.5"
2. Currie Antirock - I currently have disco's. For rock crawling, some tell me disco's are still better yet others claim the antirock is the way to go
3. Cargo shelf/storage - most likely DIY . I have two dogs which I'd like to have on top of the shelf with netting around the cargo area.

I live/wheel mostly northeast rocks. My goal is to build a rugged, reliable rig. I have no desire to go with more lift or bigger tires. I'm happy wheelin blues and the occasional black like this from last weekends event

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I'm working on a DIY rear storage system now. Same situation with the 2 dogs (45lb shepherd mix/60lb hound mix) so it needs to be solid. I've been looking for something that would work for them but didn't see anything that would work. I didn't really want to use wood, but I don't have the tools to fabricate a solid metal system. I built it to fit in between the rear seat brackets and level with the wheel wells to get the most area for them and storage needs. I also wanted the ability to remove it and put the seat in at times.
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I have a 3/4" plywood deck cut for the top. It will extend to the tailgate so it can be "locked" with the tailgate along with some slide locks underneath. I'm going to try and hinge it and use a prop rod for when its open, along with trucked liner coating. Then I'll just throw some kind of large all-weather dog bed on top. I'll keep it updated as I build it.

This is the SmittyBilt C-Res 2 webbing that we spoke about on the trail. I picked it up as an amazon warehouse open box deal for $110. it is a PIA to install with the all the buckles, but it stays on year round and fits under the soft top with no issue. The back has the ability to unclip for easier access as well.
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I might look into those Synergy CA skids you mentioned as I smashed my OEM CA's up pretty good....
 
I might look into those Synergy CA skids you mentioned as I smashed my OEM CA's up pretty good....

Mine were getting beat up too. Whats nice about them is those times where you can't avoid hitting something, it gives you peace of mind to know those things can really take a beating.

I'd like to check your setup out when its done. I have access to a flat bed laser cutter so I may be able to have something fab'd out of Al plate which would be light and easy to remove.

Nice pooches BTW. I have a 70lb Husky/Collie mix and a 35lb Shiba Inu.

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Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts