Cool Fact: Even though the...
Cool Fact:
Even though the Jeep Wrangler YJ was produced from 1987 to 1996, officially there wasn't a '96 version.
Jeep Wranglers are one of the most capable wheelers right out of the box and can be found on almost any trail around the globe, thus making them one of the most difficult vehicles to uniquely customize. When Greg Slade of Raleigh, North Carolina, set out to transform his '91 Jeep Wrangler into a serious wheeler he decided to add a few extra touches to make it stand out from the crowd. Although chrome wheels and heated seats may sound more like tow-rig accessories than trail gear, Greg was able to combine show with go by using a set of Staun internal bead locks and dual bun warmers to make wheeling a little more luxurious.
A longer wheelbase usually never hurts when tackling big ledges, and since this big red YJ was built to handle the tough trails of Tellico, Greg stretched his rig to 112 inches with the help of a custom front and rear suspension and 14-inch King coilovers. From the custom bodywork to the tube-framed rear half, it's the time you put into a rig that makes it so unique. Although Greg admits that if he had it to do over, he might build it a tad lower, he's extremely content with his rig, as the goal was to create a super-tough trail machine that combined a healthy helping of modern components and features to make those long trail rides more enjoyable.
Putting out the power to play...
Putting out the power to play is a Tuned Port injected V-8 transplanted from a '91 Corvette that's been beefed up to give the Jeep a little extra low-end torque. To keep the rig juiced up and the ARB compressor pumping strong, a set of Optima batteries keeps the amps up even when the cable is out.
When Greg decided to push...
When Greg decided to push the wheelbase back to the 112-inch mark, he also opted to bob the body. Taking his time he was able to incorporate the factory rear tailgate and fit it with a custom top to create a custom tub with a seamless body line.
The inside of the Wrangler...
The inside of the Wrangler was treated to a 13/4-inch DOM interior cage that has been triangulated for support in the event that the big red beast does a flop. Although on the plus side, occupants should stay warm at any angle with the custom heated seats.
Vehicle: '90 Jeep Wrangler
Driveline
Engine: Tuned Port injected 383ci
Transmission: NV4500
Transfer Case: 4.3:1 Atlas II
Front Axle: Dynatrac ProRock 60, ARB Air Locker, 5.13 gears
Rear Axle: Solid 60, high-pinion, 300M CTM axleshafts, ARB Air Locker, 5.13 gears
Suspension
Springs & Such: 14-inch King coilovers front and rear, radius arm front, four-link rear
Steering: AGR hydraulic assist
Tires & Wheels: 42x14 Iroks on 17x9 Moto-Metal wheels with Staun internal bead locks
Other Stuff: 2-inch body lift; bobbed tub; heated seats; custom bumpers, cage, and rear frame; Warn HS9500i front winch; Warn X8000i rear winch; Ready welder; Custom top; Centerforce clutch