Slow 05 LJ Build

[seabass]

Nothing wrong with it, the details are what usually bring confidence and joy for me as well.

It's a blessing and a curse. Little details drive me nuts too, and I don't have the time/space/money to get things as perfect as I'd like. So I come here and look at other people's builds. @mrblaine 's work in particular always gives me a sense of calm

 

[Fouledplugs]

It's a blessing and a curse. Little details drive me nuts too, and I don't have the time/space/money to get things as perfect as I'd like. So I come here and look at other people's builds. @mrblaine 's work in particular always gives me a sense of calm

He makes it look so simple and easy. It isnt.

 

[seabass]

He makes it look so simple and easy. It isnt.

You ain't kidding

 

[seabass]

No physical progress today apart from looking at parts and deciding what to do next. I want to upgrade my headlights but will not be going the LED route yet. Looking at a few of the H4 conversions for now.. I like the look of the Delta quad bars, but the KC and Rampage kits are cheaper.

Added another Milwaukee tool to the arsenal. Got the M12 rotary for Christmas and picked up this accessory kit from Harbor Freight for $15 with a coupon.

Decided to sell my kayak as well, since we don't have a garage yet I have to store it at my parent's and it's just a pain. I can rent one at most lakes around here when I want to go. That being said if anyone needs a kayak let me know. More Jeep money!

Now time for some freshly ground, pressed coffee so I can stay awake while I research some more!

 

[seabass]

Happened to look on Extreme Terrain today and saw that they had 5 open-box Mammoth Boulders in charcoal. Quickly added them to my cart and by the time I got to PayPal and hit "order" they were gone . Would've been all 5 wheels for $320 vs $500.

 

[seabass]

Update: apparently there was a glitch on the website and my order did actually go through. 5 charcoal gray Mammoth Boulders should be here tomorrow!! Goodbye black steelies. Supposedly they have some scratches, but I'm not worried about it. Imperfect wheels on an imperfect Jeep are no big deal, and I can always repaint/powder coat down the road!

 

[seabass]

Did it really snow in NC if you didn't take pictures to prove it?

 

[seabass]

Got the wheels on today, I was very happy with the look. A few hours later, the passenger rear was flat. Put air in it and found a small crack behind one of the spokes, so I had to put my spare on (the 5th wheel hasn't come in yet). Looks goofy, but I'm trying to get it sorted out with ET. Hopefully it works out

 

[seabass]

Every wheel is cracked in the same place. Needless to say, I am not impressed.

 

[Fouledplugs]

Every wheel is cracked in the same place. Needless to say, I am not impressed.

Curious as to what Extreme Terrain will do to make this right...you may get some brand new wheels out of it.

 

[400DGRZ]

Problem aside, the new wheels look great!

 

[BlueChip]

Is it odd that the smallest things bring me joy? Changed out the top tow hook/bumper bolts to grade 8 and added the 2 on the bottom. Apparently the shop didn't put them back in after the accident repairs.

Also getting another list prepared for round 2 of maintenance/upgrades. Planning on getting rid of my Rubicon Express Super Flex lowers and the stock uppers from either Curry or Savvy. Need to readjust some of my steering linkage and center my axle again too, still not quite right.

Feels good to be doing all of these things after sitting idle for so long.

View attachment 214627

View attachment 214628

I hate those torx , good call on the upgrade, maybe paint them black?

 

[Irun]

I want to upgrade my headlights but will not be going the LED route yet. Looking at a few of the H4 conversions for now.. I like the look of the Delta quad bars, but the KC and Rampage kits are cheaper.

If you're looking to go this route, just pick up a set of JK lights. They're dirt cheap, or maybe even free. I just added a set a buddy gave me. All that's needed is the H13 to H4 adapter.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H31B43W/?tag=wranglerorg-20


While I was in there, I replaced the stock connectors. In my case, they were shot. Total upgrade cost me $15.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D9FB45P/?tag=wranglerorg-20

Original

JK Headlights

Connector Fix

 

[seabass]

Curious as to what Extreme Terrain will do to make this right...you may get some brand new wheels out of it.

The 5th wheel also came in cracked. I told them that I don't want them, and I'm not really interested in trying my luck with another set. Customer service has been good, I just got labels for all of them.

 

[seabass]

Problem aside, the new wheels look great!

I was happy with the look too, however I need to pick something else now

 

[seabass]

I hate those torx , good call on the upgrade, maybe paint them black?

Think I'll leave them for now, I kinda like the look. Always an option later on though!

 

[seabass]

If you're looking to go this route, just pick up a set of JK lights. They're dirt cheap, or maybe even free. I just added a set a buddy gave me. All that's needed is the H13 to H4 adapter.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H31B43W/?tag=wranglerorg-20


While I was in there, I replaced the stock connectors. In my case, they were shot. Total upgrade cost me $15.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D9FB45P/?tag=wranglerorg-20

Original
View attachment 217677

JK Headlights
View attachment 217678

Connector Fix
View attachment 217679

I just might do that, thanks for the suggestion! I'm all about cheap and effective

 

[seabass]

I like these American Racing AR969 wheels.. more expensive but I'm willing to pay more for a name brand wheel. Opinions?

 

[Fouledplugs]

I like these American Racing AR969 wheels.. more expensive but I'm willing to pay more for a name brand wheel. Opinions?

View attachment 217979

I’m sure I’ll fall into the minority here, but the fake beadlock ring kills it.
Do they offer one without the fake ring?

 

[seabass]

I’m sure I’ll fall into the minority here, but the fake beadlock ring kills it.
Do they offer one without the fame ring?

Normally I'm in the same boat, to me these look better than most. It would be even better if it was a separate piece that served the purpose of a rock guard. But, they also make these AR23's: