Stites-XK's garage

[stites-xk]

So I've been on the forum for a couple of months now and decided today was a good day to start a garage. So here i go! I bought my commander in April of 2010 and it was completely stock. To tell you the truth I did not like it at all, but I had some financial issues and needed a vehicle so I got it. Then Started to look at the mods I can do, and three weeks later I put the RC 2inch lift and 265/70/17 big foot all terrians on it with some skids that my girlfriend got me.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMG_20101030_144812-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMG_20101030_144933-1.jpg

Well that lasted for about ten months, and i wanted more. So i saved up and went with the superlift and some 285/70/17 hancook dynapro atms[
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMG_20110925_114635-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMG_20110924_115101-1.jpg

Then one day i was surfing the web for some bumpers and saw a pic of Sals bumper and liked it so i hacked mine. I also painted it.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120211_170941_217-1.jpg?t=1336790529
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120304_172003_926-1.jpg?t=1336791212

Somewhere in all of that i bought the SA super sliders and a 4xgaurd belly skid and repainted it. Here is how it sits now.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120430_123947_725-1.jpg?t=1336791452

Oh yeah almost forgot that one weekend i got board and had some square tube steel laying around so i decided to make a spare tire carrier. Then went to the local auto parts for straight pipe
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120423_195256_178-1.jpg?t=1336792159
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120324_121402_278-1.jpg?t=1336791257
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120414_021407_21-1.jpg?t=1336791275


There's the start to my garage. Sorry it took so long.

[LWM]

Worth the wait, Great looking rig!

[AJeepZJ]

I'd like some more info on that spare tire carrier! Nice thread.

[Matt]

Wow man... i had no clue you had done all the Sal mods to your jeep too!

And x2, would love to see more pics/details on that tire carrier you made

[stites-xk]

Thanks guys! As for the tire carrier its not all done yet. What i did was i used 2x2'' square tube steel and made some big L brackets that i bolted to the support arms underneath were my spare tire use to be. When i did this i made sure that it was lower than the back up sensors, and before i welded them up i did a plum,level, and square cuts. Then welded it up. To mount it underneath i used some 6''x3/4'' grade 8 bolts with lock washers.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120414_175610_115-1.jpg?t=1336791297
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120416_065049_952-1.jpg?t=1336791345
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/20120416_065033_548-1.jpg?t=1336791326


I also bought a big spindle and hub assembly for the hing, and i'm making my own T-handle latch. I'll post more pics when i get it completely done.

[Sal-XK]

Love your XK and how you wheel it bro!


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[stites-xk]

Love your XK and how you wheel it bro!


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Thanks bro i really like your xk too

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[stites-xk]

So I was walking around the jeep doing a inspection and noticed this. I know what I'm doing next weekend https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/a6faa486259f3624-1.jpghttps://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/a6faa48625b23e15-1.jpg

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[Matt]

So I was walking around the jeep doing a inspection and noticed this.

How tall are you??

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/07/rotfl-1.gif

[stites-xk]

How tall are you??

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/07/rotfl-1.gif

LOL. I do a complete inspection once every two weeks

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[Matt]

lol, i check mine out too....but normally i have to lay down do check those bushings. ;)

[stites-xk]

Yeah I laid down to check them. Lol

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[stites-xk]

The xk got a big change today with post more pics in the morning https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/06/46c4c31a3c08ea01-1.jpg

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[Matt]

Curiosity peaked...

[stites-xk]

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/06/46c4c31aa154c427-1.jpgIts almost done some work to the back end, but it has to wait tell next weekend

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[Matt]

Looking good! Are those OME springs?

[stites-xk]

Looking good! Are those OME springs?

Thanks and yes OME springs and struts minus a coil with some JBA UCA's

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[Matt]

Very cool. How much extra height did that get ya?

[07JeepXK]

Do you have any pictures of the front CV angle. Now you jsut need another inch or so lift in the rear and put your front fender flares back on.

[stites-xk]

Here is a pic of the front CV. I have my old 2 inch spacer kit sitting in the shop right now just need to find time to put it in. As for my flares when they get here I'll put them back on. A tree decided to take out my drivers side.https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/06/46c4c1a55355b187-1.jpg

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[07JeepXK]

So your going to add a spacer lift on top of the Superlift with OME Coils? Right now the angles of the cv axle look great! Let us know how they look once the spacer lift is added. I hope everything works out and the angles arent to steep.

[stites-xk]

So your going to add a spacer lift on top of the Superlift with OME Coils? Right now the angles of the cv axle look great! Let us know how they look once the spacer lift is added. I hope everything works out and the angles arent to steep.

Im going to add the spacer to the rear to level it out and buy some bilstein rear shocks that are made for a six inch lifted commander from JBA

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[pjmjr508]

nice build up so far

[07JeepXK]

Im going to add the spacer to the rear to level it out and buy some bilstein rear shocks that are made for a six inch lifted commander from JBA

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Ok that makes more sense to me now

[stites-xk]

I figured since i did so more mods and work to the jeep i would post up some pics. About two weeks or so ago I installed my CAI.https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/j1-1.jpg

Then I had a bunch of tranny issues and check engine problems that i had the stealer fix because it was under a recall. When i got that all fixed I had to test it all out including my new suspension parts that i put on.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/j2-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/j3-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/j4-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/j5-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/j6-1.jpg
Just wanted to share with you guys!

[pjmjr508]

great pics, keep sharing

[JustinS]

I'm digging the no flare look! Keep up the good work.

[stites-xk]

Thanks guys. As for the no flare look it did not pan out for me. It is against Colorado state not to have them. Just ask the cop that gave me a ticket.

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[Matt]

Love the pics man.

You guys with the SL really make me hate not having it!

[Sal-XK]

Thanks guys. As for the no flare look it did not pan out for me. It is against Colorado state not to have them. Just ask the cop that gave me a ticket.

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Really! No warning just a ticket? that sucks man.


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[JustinS]

Thanks guys. As for the no flare look it did not pan out for me. It is against Colorado state not to have them. Just ask the cop that gave me a ticket.

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What BS, like the stock flares really do anything anyways.

[stites-xk]

I know right. I was thinking of some xj fender flares and seeing if i could cut them and my jeep to make them fit but i have no idea how to do the rear flares.

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[stites-xk]

Not that it is a part of my build to my jeep but a big change in my life. I get married today. Super happy! Then Sunday i leave for Ireland.:D

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[Core XK]

I don't think the garage thread is restricted to anything anymore. Should be renamed "The life of ____"

Anyway, CONGRATS MAN!!!! I will be in your shoes soon :p I am very jealous of your Ireland Honeymoon! drink some warm beer for us!

[stites-xk]

You know it warm beer and alot of Irish whiskey :D

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[Core XK]

You know it warm beer and alot of Irish whiskey :D

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NOW THAT is the way to do a honeymoon! lol

[Matt]

Congrats man!!!!! Have fun today. :)

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Yea congrats buddy enjoy the big day!! And take some pics of Ireland heard its awesome over there

[stites-xk]

Thanks guys and my soon to be wife is a photographer so there will be alot of pics

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[Sal-XK]

Thanks guys and my soon to be wife is a photographer so there will be alot of pics

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Congratulations bro! have fun and I'm looking forward to the pics.

[stites-xk]

Thanks man! Looking forward to sharing the pics with you guys

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[pjmjr508]

congrats

[criket]

Somehow I missed this. Congrats man!!! Looking forward to the Ireland pics.

Funny thing, a friend of a friend went to Ireland a few years ago. He said all the Americans there drink Irish beer/whiskey and that the Irish were drinking American beer/whiskey. LOL.

[Core XK]

Somehow I missed this. Congrats man!!! Looking forward to the Ireland pics.


Funny thing, a friend of a friend went to Ireland a few years ago. He said all the Americans there drink Irish beer/whiskey and that the Irish were drinking American beer/whiskey. LOL.

Thats pretty funny lol

[stites-xk]

Well im back from my honeymoon had a wonderful time i will start with pics tomorrow if i dont sleep the day away! Lol!

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[Sal-XK]

Still waiting! :)

[stites-xk]

Still waiting! :)

Sorry wife has been editing all the pics all 4000 of them before i can start sharing! On another note my locker showed up today and my American rebel diff cover is ordered:D locker goes in Saturday afternoon and test it out Sunday!!

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[06JeepXKHEMI]

Nice! Im jealous of the diff cover!

[07JeepXK]

Make sure you check the specs of the locker during install where it mentions it in the instructions. Other than that have fun with the install!!!! Just a little heads up. For the install of the No-slip, the drivers side axle shaft doesnt need to be pulled out. Only the passenger side. However the aussie stated to pull both. Im willing to bet you can install it wilthout pulling the drivers side. I did just because I was following the instruction just to make sure I did everything as stated. But when I read the instructions for the No-slip I got tho thinking. There really is no need to pull that shaft and that probably wh powerrtrax doesnt tell you to

[stites-xk]

Locker almost done:D

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[stites-xk]

Locker is now done! https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/10/y5usy5uh-1.jpg

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[DetroitMarauder]

Looks pretty cool. How long did it take?

I don't remember, do you have QD1 or QD2?

[stites-xk]

3.5 hours and thanks man. Big thanks to 07jeepxk for the great deal on it and help!

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[07JeepXK]

Looks pretty cool. How long did it take?

I don't remember, do you have QD1 or QD2?

He has the 4.7 liter with QT II.

Did you test drive it yet??

[stites-xk]

He has the 4.7 liter with QT II.

Did you test drive it yet??

No test will be tomorrow morning. I did the wheel spin test that it told me to do. You were right i did not have remove the drivers side axle shaft just the passenger.

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[07JeepXK]

Nice. The noise you heard during the spin test it what you will hear when you make right and left runs from a stop or in a parking lot. The instructions say when you install the diff cover and fluid it will drown out the noise but I didn't notice a difference really. It's loud.

[stites-xk]

Ok! If it's to bad for the wife then I'll think of something. I'll be fine with the noise the wife on the other hand though. Thats a hole different story!

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[07JeepXK]

Whats the word???

[Matt]

Whats the word???


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WNrx2jq184

lol that's my ringtone

[stites-xk]

Bird is the word lol! Just got back from eagle rock locker worked great no issues. Its a little loud around turns but not to bad do to the straight pipe and cai! Took awhile for me to hear it. Love it! Stuff that i needed 4low for did it in high. Big difference.

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[07JeepXK]

Glad to hear that. My no slip makes zero noise but came with a big price tag. But your locked now and that's all that matters! Any pics of wheeling?? And did you install the American Rebel diff cover or are you still waiting on it?

[stites-xk]

No pics of wheeling sorry i was by myself and having to much fun with the locker. Still waiting on the diff cover. I will be calling tomorrow to find out what is going on. I'll have pics next weekend ( hopefully) i should be going to hacket gulch!

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[stites-xk]

Look what showed up today! 1622

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[Matt]

Awesome :cool:

[stites-xk]

Awesome :cool:

Thanks. Picking up the front drive shaft tomorrow found one at a junk yard from a 07 commander with only 37,000 on it they want 125.00 for the shaft and im pulling the steering rack as well for 200.00. So im down 325. Not to bad i guess.

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[Matt]

I have an 07 XK with only 46k miles on it and just replaced my front drive shaft. Brand new is only $260.... might be able to talk them down some more

[stites-xk]

I have an 07 XK with only 46k miles on it and just replaced my front drive shaft. Brand new is only $260.... might be able to talk them down some more

I'll see what i can do! If it's in bad shape I'll just buy a new one!

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[Matt]

Mine spewed all of the grease out of the differential side joint. So look for flung grease in that area.

[stites-xk]

Will do! Mines doing it there and at the tcase!

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[stites-xk]

I've been pretty busy lately but here are some pics of my new stuff1623162416241625

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[Core XK]

Did you paint your springs?

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[stites-xk]

Yes i did!

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[Core XK]

What springs are they?

Great idea :)

I wasn't going to do red accents but I think I am but not sure where I am going to start. If I upgrade to OME I will paint it red, or new UCAs, I have tube covers for my shocks that are red so I suppose I can start there LOL

[stites-xk]

They are the superlift rear springs! With matts custom 1/2 spacer! I painted my front springs to! They are the OME struts and springs minus a coil. I have close to 5.5 of lift all the way around. You should paint all you upgraded suspension parts!!

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[Core XK]

Yeah it definitely looks good, I intend to do the same whenever I do upgrade.

[stites-xk]

Thanks man!

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[Matt]

Very nice! What valving did you get in the shocks?

[stites-xk]

Very nice! What valving did you get in the shocks?

To tell you the truth i dont know! Lol! I just got them from jeepin by all. There made for a 6" lifted XK. Plus this is the first time i ever had remote reservoir shocks! So im new to them and how they work!

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[Matt]

Was there a part number on the box?

[stites-xk]

I can tell you when i get home!

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[stites-xk]

The part number is 190010

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[Matt]

Thanks. Ill have to look into that. :)

[stites-xk]

Thank you! Like i said I'm new to them so any input would be nice!

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[Matt]

What's the extended/compressed lengths? That PN doesn't match anything in the catalog so he probably has them modify the upper mount of one of their standard PNs so you don't need washers. You could get 12" travel 7100 series resi shocks for $200/ea ... just need a few washers up top.

Actually allshocks.com has them for $175.

[stites-xk]

They are 12". Good thing i didn't pay for them. It was a late bday present from my mom and stepdad!

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[stites-xk]

Forgot to post pics of this i got it about a week ago!1652

Then this came in yesterday! I'll be installing it on Sunday!1653

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[07JeepXK]

Glad you received it

[stites-xk]

Just a quick teaser of what I've done lately!

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[pjmjr508]

Great Pic

[stites-xk]

Oh happy day! 1900

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[07JeepXK]

Who makes those control arms??

[stites-xk]

I had them custom made from Rusty's! If you want I can get you the part numbers tomorrow for the two ends. Then you will have to call and tell them what you want!

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[Matt]

Lots of good things happening lately!

[stites-xk]

Lots of good things happening lately!

Yes indeed! Tomorrow when I'm next to my computer I will update my garage to show you guys what I've been up to!

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[1USMC]

I look forward to it !

[criket]

Yes indeed! Tomorrow when I'm next to my computer I will update my garage to show you guys what I've been up to!

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It's been 3 tomorrows and no update. LOL. Jk I can't wait to see whatcha got!

[stites-xk]

I know it has been longer then planned to update! Sorry!
So first of all I found a cheap set of Moabs for $100. Pained and installed

1913


Then i did not care for my SL rear springs! So I bought some JBA 6" lift rear springs. Painted and installed!

1914

1915

LIttle later I bought some JKS quick sway disconnects. With these I had to make them longer then the SL ones> At fully extended the JKS ones were at 12 1/2" and Sl was at 14 1/4". I needed 16". I bought some allthread and some couplers. I had to tap the internal threads to 11 thread count, and tap half of the coupler as well. Some lock tite and everything was good!

1916


Then went out to Eagle Rock! Still working videos Sorry. Not good at his computer stuff! Some scrapes from the trip.


1917

[stites-xk]

Some more scrapes!


1918
1919


Next was the control arms and new track bar. There is a pic up a couple of post. Then i painted them!

1920

Then with some help from some awesome members! I got a QDII front diff, and most of the parts I need! The rest will be here tomorrow! So hopefully this weekend and if not next weekend for sure I'll do the swap!! Then i'll be locked front and rear!!

1921
1922

I think that is about it for now. I'll keep you updated!

[pjmjr508]

nice

[07JeepXK]

How is the rear locker? Still making a lot of noise?

[stites-xk]

Its not to bad now! Got way quite!!

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[Matt]

You have one sweet build going on here. I love how you guys don't stop tweaking/modding :cool:

[stites-xk]

Thanks man! It was going to be SAS year but I was told NO!! by the boss! I have to wait a couple of years! I think I might start looking into relocating my gas tank then go long arms in the rear!

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[Matt]

That's the way to do it! Might as well do that so you're ready for when you SAS up front. Lol it'd be kind of ironic to have more travel in the front than the rear.

[stites-xk]

Yes sir!

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[stites-xk]

Out with old in with the new!!1939


Installed :D

1940



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[thance]

Sweet! How much longer than stock did you set those to?

[stites-xk]

1" for now!

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[07JeepXK]

How is the rear pinion angle with the lower control arms extended an inch longer than stock?

[stites-xk]

Looks about the same. The only reason I made them a 1" longer was due to the SL drop brackets. I used a ratchet strap to hold my axle in place and when I unbolted every thing I made the new arms so they would slide right on in!

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[stites-xk]

I still have some fine tuning to do but this is what it looks like now!

1941

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[stites-xk]

Diff going in soon! Driving to the shop now!

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[07JeepXK]

Nice!!!

[stites-xk]

In the works! 1943

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[stites-xk]

No more QTII
1945

1946

In with QDII
1947

All wired up!
1948

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[07JeepXK]

Did you test it out on the lift to make sure its engaging properly? If you flip the switch with power going to the diff you can spin one of the front tires forward and the opposite tire will spin the same direction. That's how you know it's locking properly. Then turn it off and when you spin that same tire forward the opposite should spin backwards

[07JeepXK]

Also if you haven't done it yet, you want to run a switch to completely disable traction control. I noticed a huge difference with traction control completely off and rear locked.

[stites-xk]

Yes I did test it out for like two hours! Had some issues at first but now it works great. I haven't ran a switch for traction control yet but soon!

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[criket]

Friggin sweet dude! Can't wait to see it in action. I looked at the diff I have laying in the garage and it's QT2. Got me thinging of trading it for QD2.

[stites-xk]

Friggin sweet dude! Can't wait to see it in action. I looked at the diff I have laying in the garage and it's QT2. Got me thinging of trading it for QD2.

Do it!

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[JustinS]

How are you guys running the switch for traction control disable?

[pjmjr508]

Looking great man

[07JeepXK]

How are you guys running the switch for traction control disable?

I ran my wiring right from the abs pump fuse located in the fuse box under the hood.

[jjt250]

I have a few questions about the need for a traction control "kill" switch...

1. If you're locked, wouldn't the computer think that everything is operating fine sense it would be detecting no difference in wheel speed? Basically what I'm asking is why does it perform better with it turned off?

2. Why do you need a dedicated switch, does holding it down for 5 seconds not turn it off enough?

3. Does the switch also kill ABS?

Great work!

[07JeepXK]

I have a few questions about the need for a traction control "kill" switch...

1. If you're locked, wouldn't the computer think that everything is operating fine sense it would be detecting no difference in wheel speed? Basically what I'm asking is why does it perform better with it turned off?

2. Why do you need a dedicated switch, does holding it down for 5 seconds not turn it off enough?

3. Does the switch also kill ABS?

Great work!

1. I'm not exactly sure why, but my Jeep being locked front and rear performed way better with the traction control completely disables. It's a night and day difference. You would think it wouldn't matter being locked front and rear. Keep in mind. I run my Jeep with traction control completely disabled and just the rear locked. I only use front locker when needed.

2. Holding down the traction control button for 5 sec doesn't completely disable traction control. The only way to do this is with a switch to the ABS pump fuse like I'm running.

3. Yes it disables the ABS. This switch is only used when my jeep comes of the pavement and in 4 low. ABS is not needed when off road. I honestly don't like ABS period! When I flip the switch it also disables ESP completely.

[stites-xk]

You beat me to it! Thanks! Just holding the button tell it turns off helps a bunch with being locked in the rear!

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[jjt250]

1. I'm not exactly sure why, but my Jeep being locked front and rear performed way better with the traction control completely disables. It's a night and day difference. You would think it wouldn't matter being locked front and rear. Keep in mind. I run my Jeep with traction control completely disabled and just the rear locked. I only use front locker when needed.

2. Holding down the traction control button for 5 sec doesn't completely disable traction control. The only way to do this is with a switch to the ABS pump fuse like I'm running.

3. Yes it disables the ABS. This switch is only used when my jeep comes of the pavement and in 4 low. ABS is not needed when off road. I honestly don't like ABS period! When I flip the switch it also disables ESP completely.


You beat me to it! Thanks! Just holding the button tell it turns off helps a bunch with being locked in the rear!

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Thanks for the clarifications! Interesting to see how the computer behaves...when are we gonna see some video of it in action?! And yeah, I remember reading on wkjeeps.com that ABS is never disabled, even after holding the TC button for 5 seconds.

[07JeepXK]

Thanks for the clarifications! Interesting to see how the computer behaves...when are we gonna see some video of it in action?! And yeah, I remember reading on wkjeeps.com that ABS is never disabled, even after holding the TC button for 5 seconds.

Well my switch is hooked up to the ABS pump fuse under the hood. So when I flip the switch ABS is completely disabled

[stites-xk]

Out with the old and in with the new!
1956

All nice and pretty!
1957

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[pjmjr508]

looking good

[stites-xk]

Got board over the weekend and did some painting to the jeep! I re did all of the bed liner! Then did my grill with bed liner and yellow then did my diff cover as well!
1974
1975
1976
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[Matt]

lol you got the itch to paint too, huh?

[stites-xk]

I did man! It was bad too! New spray guns and the whole works!

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[1USMC]

I like the B4 and after rear diff shots.

A lot of work , it turned out nice !

[stites-xk]

Thanks man!

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[stites-xk]

So I've been thinking of new tires! Just not sure what I should go with! 315/70/r17 duratracks or 305/70/r17 mtrs? Any input would be awesome!

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[06JeepXKHEMI]

MTRs no brainer! Best tire decision Ive ever made in my life and there has been a lot of them on different applications

[stites-xk]

I wonder if I could fit 315 mtrs on my modified SL :D

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[07JeepXK]

MT/R's for sure. Make 315's fit lol

[stites-xk]

Thinking about it! Should be pretty easy to do. Rear heater/ac delete, more pinch weld work , and longer rear bump stops then some fender trimming!

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[07JeepXK]

Exactly. I'm running 285/70 MT/R's on OME lift and I have no rubbing at all anywhere. Not even when off road but of course I have heat/ac delete, sal front bumper mod, trimmed front flares and longer rear bump stops

[pjmjr508]

BTW if you are using your 3rd row seats, you do not need to delete the lines, there is a plate that will protect those lines & the TPMS sensor. It's on the SA site & listed on this site as well.

[stites-xk]

BTW if you are using your 3rd row seats, you do not need to delete the lines, there is a plate that will protect those lines & the TPMS sensor. It's on the SA site & listed on this site as well.

3rd row has been gone for years! If I was going to run 285's again I would be buying the plate however I'm going to go bigger! Hell i might even cut the pinch weld area out and weld a new one on that sits back a couple of inches!

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[07JeepXK]

I got rid of my third row years ago also and completely cut out the pinch weld over a year ago. Just never weld in new plate. Probably never will as my jeep has almost 135,000 miles now and is paid off so I'm just driving it into the ground

[pjmjr508]

once bumper is done, the pinch weld will be cut out & a strip will be welded in it's place. (at least the plan.)

[stites-xk]

once bumper is done, the pinch weld will be cut out & a strip will be welded in it's place. (at least the plan.)

Sounds like a good plan! Keep us updated!

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[stites-xk]

Got new shoes today! I went with 305/70/17 MT/R's! They boss did not want me cutting on the jeep this time around. She said next time! So far no rubbing at all!

1981
1982
1983
1984

Tomorrow I will be ordering the new struts and start my testing!

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[07JeepXK]

Sick. I'm getting 305's next too. This will be my 4th set of MT/R's. Just hit 135,000 miles on my way to work tonight.

[stites-xk]

Damn dude I just hit 83,000 right when I pulled into discount tire! I'm never going to another tire! These are freaking sweet!

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[07JeepXK]

I too will never run any other tire. MT/R's are the $hit.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

That looks f-in sick! I love the MT/Rs, Ill never get another SUV tire again either! Wait til you wheel those bad boys, it's a night/day difference.. Good on the road to

[Matt]

If I go back to 17" wheels the 275/70/17 MTRs are definitely on my list of possibilities!

[stites-xk]

Yes love these tires. Plus I just ordered my new struts!

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[Matt]

REALLY looking forward to seeing how the new struts work out.

[stites-xk]

Look what showed up today!
1988

I have to give Chris at crawloffroad.net a hands down order Friday night and showed up today! So I need to paint yellow first and Saturday they will be installed!

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[Matt]

Rock on man. How are you going to set them up for the first go around?

[stites-xk]

I'm going to go 1.5" with stock springs first. Then start looking at what I want to do with the OME springs since these struts do not have stock height on them! They go from .75" to 2".

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[stites-xk]

So the fun begins!
1993

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[lekmedm]

Oooooohhhh.... :beer:

Sent from wherever my Jeep takes me.

[stites-xk]

Done and aligned!
1996

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[pjmjr508]

Done and aligned!
1996

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WOW the Rake on that

[stites-xk]

I know! That's at 1.5" lift on the strut and stock springs!

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[07JeepXK]

But your not parked on level ground in that pic?!?!

[stites-xk]

Definitely not! It gave me about a extra .50" of lift! I was sitting at 24.5" in the front. Now I'm at 25".

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[stites-xk]

I did also get the new re designed JBA UCA's and they are awesome! Way more clearance between the spring and the spindal! Plus they are longer witch helped with alignment.
1997
1998

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[pjmjr508]

I have them as well & love them.

[stites-xk]

Question why would my passenger side have more lift then the drivers side? My rear springs are on correctly and both front springs and struts are set up the same. Any ideas?

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[Matt]

How much more lift?

Dont you have superlift springs in the rear and stock springs in front? Did you happen to swap the front springs?

[stites-xk]

About A 1/2" or so and no I'm running jba 6" rear springs!

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[Matt]

Was editing my post when you responded.

1/2" isn't that big of a difference. Fill up your gas tank and you'll be good lol.

[stites-xk]

My rear sits fine! Its the front that is lower on the drives side.

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[stites-xk]

Plus if I was already higher on the passenger side in the rear wouldn't filling up make it worse since the tank is on the drivers side!

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[Matt]

Did you re-install the front springs on the same side?

There's also a bit of play in the lower fork where you can squeak out almost 1/2" of extra lift depending on where you clamp it on the strut.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/10/20111014175508-1.jpg

[Matt]

Plus if I was already higher on the passenger side in the rear wouldn't filling up make it worse since the tank is on the drivers side!


Give me a break, i'm trying to drink off some lower back pain :p

[stites-xk]

As for as I know the springs went back on the same side! I'll take at the fork bolt tomorrow some time! Good luck with that back pain! Take a couple of shots:D

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[Matt]

lol thanks man. I'll be good by the morning

[stites-xk]

I'll post a pic here soon to show what I'm talking about once I find some level ground!

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[stites-xk]

First couple is passenger side!2012
2013
Next couple are of the drivers side.
2014
2015
Then a straight shot.
2016

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[07JeepXK]

Definitely looks higher on passenger side

[stites-xk]

Yeah and I don't know why!!

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[Matt]

Yeah you're talking about an inch of difference there.... did you put both of the struts on the same preload setting?

[stites-xk]

Both struts are set to 1.5" of lift and fully tightened down!

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[Matt]

IIRC the OEM springs adjust for the fuel tank using the front springs (not the rear like OME). If there's a chance you've swapped them side to side, that could cause this. Not sure how you went about your install though.

[stites-xk]

IIRC the OEM springs adjust for the fuel tank using the front springs (not the rear like OME). If there's a chance you've swapped them side to side, that could cause this. Not sure how you went about your install though.

I didn't know that! Maybe that's the problem because I just grabbed and installed! Does it matter with OME front springs?

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[jjt250]

FWIW I did not notice any difference between the front springs when I installed mine and I made sure to check. When I installed rear springs, there was a slight difference but from what I could tell, none in the front.

[pjmjr508]

I only saw a marker on the rear springs on my OME setup to say what side they are needed to be on.

[07JeepXK]

OME front springs are also labeled A and B just like the rears

[Matt]

Yeah im pretty sure the fronts arent side specific for OME. I recall the spec sheet backing that up... only the rears were different.

[07JeepXK]

My front coils were marked A and B just like the rears. The install instructions said place the A coil in the front opposite where you put the A coil in the rear. I installed my fronts years ago though. Maybe the instructions changed

[Matt]

I guess it's changed. I can't find an ARB catalog older than 2012 online. The kits as they come today have the same front springs and different rear springs.

[stites-xk]

I guess it's changed. I can't find an ARB catalog older than 2012 online. The kits as they come today have the same front springs and different rear springs.

OK thanks for the help! I think first what I will do is try switching the springs and if that don't work I'll go back toy OME ones. So next question do you think if o had a 2" spacer up top instead of the SL one set the struts 2" lift and put the OME springs one with a coil cut I would be fine?

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[Matt]

You might limit down travel by doing that. I think 3" spacers were the limit that trialbyfire (?) measured.

[stites-xk]

So I spent my day off messing around with the front and rear trying to get it level! Switched everything on the passenger side to the drivers side and still no change! Its still sitting lower on the drivers side. About 1" difference all the way around! Any ideas?

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[Matt]

Wait you swapped the rear springs too?

[stites-xk]

Wait you swapped the rear springs too?

Yes I did! When I pulled on level ground everything was leaning to the drivers side! So I switched everything! I did call JBA and asked if their rear springs where side specific and they are not! They went through a list of things it could be and they said I might of bent something!

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[Matt]

Yeah if you swapped all the springs from passenger to driver and didn't see a change in the lean, something else is going on.

Those LCAs you installed are both the same exact length, right?

Measure your wheel base, hub to hub, on both sides..

[stites-xk]

I'll check that tonight, but I'm sure they are the same!

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[Matt]

I'll check that tonight, but I'm sure they are the same!

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I remember you saying you used straps to hold the axle in place..... im sure the axle shifted some. And if you weren't on level ground and didnt compare the arms to make sure they're the same exact length you may be losing some height if the drivers side is pushed back a bit more.

[stites-xk]

I remember you saying you used straps to hold the axle in place..... im sure the axle shifted some. And if you weren't on level ground and didnt compare the arms to make sure they're the same exact length you may be losing some height if the drivers side is pushed back a bit more.

Thanks I'll check that out! Any other ideas?

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[Matt]

Scan your most recent alignment printout.... ill see if anything stands out.

[Matt]

Did you ever figure this out?

[stites-xk]

Front cross member is bemt trying to work with superlift to get a new one for the past month!

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[Matt]

Front cross member is bemt trying to work with superlift to get a new one for the past month!

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Trialbyfire bent his too! I recall him mentioning that the replacement looked sturdier. Let us know how it turns out.

Still liking the 5100s? When you put the new crossmember in you should swap the stock springs out for OME MD's.... so i know what to buy :D

[stites-xk]

Most definitely going back to the ome springs! The stock ones suck! I will let you know. Hopefully I will be all fixed up by thanksgiving.

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[Matt]

Roger that. Thanks man

[Matt]

Any updates bud?

[lekmedm]

Front cross member is bemt trying to work with superlift to get a new one for the past month!

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How did you bend it and what part is bent?

[stites-xk]

No updates yet! Just got laid off about two weeks ago so I had to cancel my order with sl to pay some bills! I bent the main front crossmember the one that relocates the front lca's by slamming down on a boulder.

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[Matt]

Sorry to hear that dude. Hope things get better for ya soon.

[stites-xk]

I'm sure they will. I got some side jobs coming up in the next two weeks or so. With that I should be able to fix what I want to!

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[07JeepXK]

No updates yet! Just got laid off about two weeks ago so I had to cancel my order with sl to pay some bills! I bent the main front crossmember the one that relocates the front lca's by slamming down on a boulder.

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They wouldn't warranty the crossmember?

[stites-xk]

So I recalled SL last monday and talked to one of their head guys and told him what happened. He was not happy about the situation so he rushed me a new front crossmember and it showed up yesterday. So once I get new front lca's it will be going in! Hopefully this fixes my leaning problem.

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[Matt]

Glad to hear that!!

Does the new front crossmember look stronger? I recall one of the other guys getting a replacement and said it was definitely better built

[stites-xk]

From what I can see. Yes! I will take side by side pics when I have it all tour apart!

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[stites-xk]

Plus today I did some playing around with front end and this is what I came up with. The rest will be done tomorrow!
2194

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[Matt]

I like where this is headed...

[JustinS]

Plus today I did some playing around with front end and this is what I came up with. The rest will be done tomorrow!
2194

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Can you measure how tall the stock bumper support is? The pieces that are still there after you cut. Thanks!

[paroxysym]

Most definitely going back to the ome springs! The stock ones suck! I will let you know. Hopefully I will be all fixed up by thanksgiving.

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just wondering what your thoughts on the 5100s adjusted to 2" with OEM springs? looking to run this in the front soon.

[stites-xk]

I think it will be fine. I have them set to 1.5" with OEM springs right now.

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[stites-xk]

Just some finishing touches and it will be done!
2195

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[adud83]

Just some finishing touches and it will be done!
2195

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I am liking this a lot! Great job. About how much did this cost to do? Do u have measurements that u could share? Maybe a write up? What size steel plate? What winch are u planning on running? Sorry about all the questions. I have been wanting to do this for a while just haven't worked up the courage to start cutting. Having something planned out wild help.


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[Ross]

Hey Stites, tried to send ya a pm but your inbox is full.

I will soon be installing your old SL springs, which will make the rear too tall for the stock swaybar links. I saw in your garage thread that you replaced the SL links with quick discos when you went to 6" a lift. Would you happen to still have the SL links? Sorry for not thinkin' a this before having the springs shipped, but I could pay shipping + the price of the links if ya got 'em

-Ross

[stites-xk]

Yes I still have them. I'll dig them out this weekend. Just shoot me an offer.

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[Ross]

I'll give ya $25 for 'em, plus whatever shipping costs. I'm not quite sure how much these would retail for, so let me know if that price is not good with you, and we can work something' out via pm's.

[stites-xk]

I'm good with that I'll get shipping Monday. I'm tearing the jeep apart starting tomorrow so Monday would be the soonest i could get you a quote.

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[Ross]

That'll be fine, I'm in no rush.