Jeep JK Wrangler Baja Upgrade - March 2023

Overview

While Jeeps are lots of fun stock, just a few parts can exponentially improve their offroading capabilities. In this project, I fitted a variety of aftermarket components to a JK Wrangler 2-Door, with goals of driving it to Baja California, and taking it on technical trails.

Each upgrade was done with a specific goal in mind, from increasing articulation to adding security.

First, I installed a 2" lift kit from Zone offroad, with upgraded FOX adventure shocks. The lift kit increases the Jeep's ground clearance by 2" and also increases the stroke of the Jeep's shocks, allowing the suspension system to articulate more. This means that the Jeep's tires will be able to flex to maintain traction in more advanced terrain. This sounds complicated, but I've described it in detail with pictures on the associated blog post here.

Next, we added aftermarket wheels and tires. By upgrading from 7" stock wheels to 8.5" method MR703 wheels and with the same offset, I increased the Jeep's trck width. This increases the Jeep's stability, allowing it to roll to greater angles without tipping. Upgrading the tires from 30" stock to to 33" Falken Wildpeak A/T's also had several positive effects. The increased overall height of the new tires also increased the Jeep's ground clearance. Additionally, the larger diameter tires are offroad capable, and optimised to be aired down to further increase their contact patch.

To improve the Wrangler's approach and departure angles, I installed aftermarket bumpers. I fitted a Barricade Adventure series bumper to the front, which had a winch recess and mounting point, two recovery D-rings, and increased the appraoch angle by over 1 degree. This allows the Jeep to climb steeper obstacles before making front bumper contact. This aftermarket bumper also required relocation of the fog lights, which I wired in. I followed this upgrade with an ARB rear bumper. The ARB bumper is a sleek, low profile bumper, allowing for clearance for the bigger 33" tires. Integrated recovery points are sleek, and don't bounce around, keeping the car's ride quiet. The ARB rear bumper also improves the Jeep's departure angle. This means I can depart from obstacles at a greater angle, without making rear bumper contact.

Next, I finished the build with low-profile fender flares from Bushwacker. Low profile fenders give the Jeep's tires mroe room to move, and thus allow for greater suspension flex. By allowing more suspension flex, the jeep can crawl over more technical terrain while maintaining tire contact.

Low profile rock rails were also essential. By pushing the Jeep's side steps closer towards the body, more clearance is created. This creates a greater breakover angle at the side steps. Additionally, these aftermarket steps are desgined as rock rails, which means they can hold up against tough offroading. Unlike the stock rails, if the Jeeps slams down onto a rock or trail obstacle, these rails will stay pristine, and protect the body from the trail.

Lastly, a lockable gas cap allowed for peace of mind. The Jeep is destined for Baja California, and will sit unsupervised for long periods, so pece of mind is key.

What I Learned

• Installing and aligning suspension components like track bars, shocks, etc.
• Aftermarket bumper mounting and reinfocement
• Measuring breakover, approach, and departure angles
• Considering and predicting handling effects with aftermarket components