This Jeep has seen more than a few versions over the past four years, primarily due to testing of new products, and it was finally time for the big portion of the build to begin this past November. Now we all know they are never really done, and this one is no different, but it has seen a trail in its current form so its time for a build thread.

The concept behind this build was NOT to build a Jeep based buggy, in fact the goal was to build a full bodied LJ with some unique features, lots of high quality custom touches, but still retain the fact that it is a Jeep. Since most builds hinge around tire size this one features Goodyears new 40” MTR w/ Kevlar on Walker Evan’s wheels, so the parts were chosen accordingly. The other big factor was a low COG, so 2” lift was the max, and we had to make everything fit and still function great.

We wanted to do something different than the typical Dana 60 swap so hopefully some people find this interesting. I wont bore you with ten million pictures of every last detail but there are a decent number of in progress shots. Everything on this vehicle is TIG welded…as are all of our products we offer. Many argue its not needed….and I argue why not do it if you have the ability and the skill.

The “blank canvas” – This was the starting point, 37’s on stock 44’s and short arms, armored to the hilt.
http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/lj_build_thread/front_1.jpg

First on the agenda was getting the stock axles and “cage” out of her, started on the cage right away.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/unlimited_build/no_cage.jpg

I decided go with a cage style I had not seen on an LJ yet, both to be different and accentuate the length of the LJ. While some wont like the “shorty” style the whole idea is to have a bolt on rear section if rear passengers are given priority over the spare J

http://www.rokmen.com/images/unlimited_build/side_1.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/images/unlimited_build/rear_1.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/images/unlimited_build/pass_1.jpg

While the cage was being worked the axle parts were being collected to start that portion of the build. To accommodate the 40” tires we obviously needed something stout to handle trail duty so a call went out to Spidertrax. I chose Spidertrax Spider9’s both front and rear for several reasons, primarily because their level of quality is second to none. It also helped that the smaller centersection of the 9” would make fitting everything with very little lift that much easier.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/lj_mockup_2.JPG

The choice was also made to use Spidertrax Ultimate Knuckles instead of the typical 60 stuff. This will allow us to cut a few pounds and also position steering where we need it. In the rear we went with Spidertrax full float cups so we are running unit bearings on all corners.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/ultimate_knuckles_1.JPG

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/lj_mockup_3.JPG

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/knuckles_welded_1.JPG

Initial mock-up with axles positioned but a LONG way to go

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/lj_mockup_1.JPG

I had toyed with the idea of moving the rear axle back a few inches to reduce the rear overhang but wasn’t sure I wanted to as breakover angle would suffer. With the rear axle in the stock location it was obvious the axle had to go back, the proportions were all wrong with the cage so out came a crossmember.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/rear_stretch_1.JPG

I didn’t take many pics but the rear ended up 4” back of stock, which meant relocating the upper spring perch. We didn’t cut into the frame at all, just fabricated new upper plates and put them below the rails. Turned out very nice and with such a low lift it works great. You can see it barely in this pic…

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/40kevlar.jpg

The gas tank was also moved back to the same location as a TJ, which is one of the great things about the LJ. There are two crossmembers so with the LJ one removed its pretty easy to move it back.

The axle shift also meant new rear corners so a new set was made up with a new wheelwell opening. The cage was also then pulled and painted. At the same time a new front bumper was built that fit the look better and was narrowed to allow for the tires to clear at stuff. The front axle was moved forward an inch or so to give a little more room at the rear of the tires. Also notice the custom high clearance tube fenders that were used as a prototype for a production version coming soon…

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/stance_1.jpg

At this point in the build we were in mad dash mode to get this thing done for EJS so the pics dropped off significantly. I’ll update the thread with detail pics as I have time.

While the above outlines the primary fab aspects of the build there are other parts worth mentioning. Axle shafts are Spidertrax 4340 front w/ Longfield joints and Spidertax 4340 full float in the rear. For diffs I went low pinion, yeah Tru-Hi 9’s would have been great but there simply wasn’t the room available in the budget….I know this one will be debated to death as always J

The suspension hasn’t even been mentioned yet….and for good reason. I wanted to buck the trend of long arms and stick with the short arms. We build the best darn short arms available which feature 3/8” wall DOM tubing, double pass TIG welded sleeve’s and Clevite bushings and Currie Johnny Joints. The arms on this Jeep have dual Johnny Joints at both ends to allow for reduced binding and increased flex…and with such a low ride height and higher than stock mounting on the axles the arms are nearly flat at ride height. The clearance under this Jeep is insane!

So far the Jeep flexes like mad, performs flawlessly on the trail, has no unloading or other odd characteristics off camber or climbing….so longer arms are not in the future.

The Jeep was also fitted with Currie Anti-Rock Swaybars and FOX emulsion shocks front and rear. The rear anti-rock is positioned behind the axle and above the gas tank, it’s a tight fit but works well with the relocated gas tank. The front trackbar mount was also rebuilt to work with the steering and also to reduce the chance of the frame failing.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/frameside_tb_mount_1.JPG

axle end front trackbar mount…
http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/final_1.jpg

Before we hit a trail we had to get to EJS for the show, made it in time but barely. We still had some of the above details to iron out so no wheeling but it sure looked pretty in the booth J

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/ejs_09.jpg

We had a couple local events as well…

http://www.rokmen.com/images/kbpi_car_show_09/kbpi_rokmen_5.JPG

And finally we hit a trail a few weeks ago, couldn’t be happier at this point. I know I missed some details but Im sure someone will notice and ask a question about it….

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/trail_1.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/trail_2.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/images/wheeling_pics/wheelerlake_8_6_09/wheeler_8.JPG

Good stuff :smokin:

Didn't catch what carrier and gear ratio your running...

You almost make me regret going long arms on my lj.

that would be a detail I didnt include....ARB's front and rear w/ 5.29's

I'd like to see pics of the relocated gas tank, I am planning on cutting out the crossmember on mine and relocating the tank to the rearmost crossmember.

How much clearance did you gain?

What are the down bars in the rear cage area tied in to?

Nice build.

Nice work. I really like the shorty cage. Can you post some more pictures of the suspension/mounts etc up close? Id like to see how they look at the frame end and did you triangulate the rear uppers or use a track bar?

hey, don't see those highline fenders on your site, any idea when they'll be on there?

that cage really sets the LJ off, nice build. any plans on hydro assist didn;t see it in any of the pics.

The rear does use a trackbar, the frame mount has been relocated due to the stretch. With a relocated mount at the axle as well the angles are awesome and it works really well. Another aspect I wanted to keep in the stock configuration.

I did forget to the mention the steering. The box and pump have been swapped and the reservoir and cooler are already mounted, just need to mount the ram. It will attach to the front of the diff on the fixed end and to the driver knuckle on the other. Due to the low ride height its the only spot that will work without interference...and keep it out of the rocks.

Thanks for the compliments on the cage, it actually turned out better than I had anticipated and really makes the Jeep stand out. Frame tie-ins are still being finalized.

Pics wont really help much with the tank relocation. The mounts at the rear are already there, the two at the front just need to be drilled, and the one lone ranger on the passenger side needs to be added...however you choose. I dont have any pics of the added piece as it wasnt a big deal. To do it right you need to extend the fuel pressure line, I used stainless line and it worked out great and most importantly is safe.

The build looks killer! Not much I would change if it were my own.

What lights are you using for your front blinkers?

front turn signals are in the headlights, you can get them at the site below. There are small "penny" led's in the side of the grill as well.

http://www.chevsofthe40s.com/detail/15610.html

The front high clearance tube fenders are coming soon, call us if you would like to get more info or get on our contact list.

front turn signals are in the headlights, you can get them at the site below. There are small "penny" led's in the side of the grill as well.

http://www.chevsofthe40s.com/detail/15610.html

The front high clearance tube fenders are coming soon, call us if you would like to get more info or get on our contact list.

Yea, I was more concerned with the "Penny LEDs". Do you have a source?

How is the angle of the front driveshaft with the low pinion 9? what did you set the caster to be?

The "penny lights" are made by Truck-Lite and are PN# 33050Y, we use a local light house but you can find them online or at a truck lighting supply store.

The front driveshaft angle is just fine, this Jeep only has 2" of lift, so the angles on just about everything are nice and flat :) The front caster is set at 6 degrees and works well.

Pics wont really help much with the tank relocation. The mounts at the rear are already there, the two at the front just need to be drilled, and the one lone ranger on the passenger side needs to be added...however you choose. I dont have any pics of the added piece as it wasnt a big deal. To do it right you need to extend the fuel pressure line, I used stainless line and it worked out great and most importantly is safe.

Do you have a pic of the ass end of the Jeep while sitting on the tires.

I debating relocating the tank versus one of the Gen-Right high clearance tanks.

I would love to see how much it tucks out of the way with your skid and the relocation.

TIA,

Chris

No direct side shots of the rear but this one should give you a real good idea of the rear overhang. I will be building a simple rear bumper that flush mounts to the crossmember for recovery points and to keep the crossmember in one piece....dont want to cut out the crossmember quite yet.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/unlimited_build/rearend_1.JPG

Why not cut off the thin factory one and make a copy of the cross member but out of thicker material and weld it in place? Genright makes a nice replacement I understand you will most likely make your own and all but thats what Id do.

What seats are in the Jeep? I like the looks of them.

What brakes did you use on the front axle? I'm in the process of building the same front axle and in the middle of figuring out what brakes I want to use.

Not ready to cut out the crossmember quite yet, for now a simple bumper should do just fine. May cut it out at some point but just not yet...

Brakes will depend on what knuckles you use, and because this Jeep has Spidertrax Ultimate Knuckles it also has Ford unit bearings. Because of this there are Ford discs and I used standard 3/4 ton Chevy rotors.

Seats are PRP Daily Drivers, low back w/ adjustable headrests.

No direct side shots of the rear but this one should give you a real good idea of the rear overhang. I will be building a simple rear bumper that flush mounts to the crossmember for recovery points and to keep the crossmember in one piece....dont want to cut out the crossmember quite yet.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/unlimited_build/rearend_1.JPG

Thanks for the pic, I've got the PSC skid now. I hope to gain 2"+ of clearance with a replacement skid and relocating the tank.

You will gain 1 1/2" of clearance alone just by installing our skid, for this build going into the cargo area was not an option. Also, the rear Antirock is above the tank, its a tight fit but works well and everything is below the stock floor.

What brakes did you use on the front axle? I'm in the process of building the same front axle and in the middle of figuring out what brakes I want to use.

96-97 F-350 SRW front rotors - specifically Carquest part # 54026. Autozone and Advance Auto rotors won't fit due to the inside of the hat not being machined out. All credit to Jeff for figuring this out, I'm building a set of Spider 9's too and he let me in on this..

And then the usual '75 K-20 front calipers and some modified D-60 brackets for said calipers welded to the outer knuckles.

Have you got an inclosed top figured out yet? Looks like a soft half top might work.

Very nice work. Interested to hear how the short arms work out. Been toying with the same idea on my XJ, won't be nearly as nice though. :D

Every time i go to rokmens shop (local for me), i always leave with products in my hand, and my wallet even lighter ha ha. They make awesome products and the Rig is sick.

With your new rear corners, is the front of the wheel opening in the same location? Looks like its matching up with your rockers pretty well but maybe you lengthened those.

Any pictures of where you put the gas filler? I don't think I saw it in any pictures yet.

Maybe I missed it but did you stretch the front at all, or does it just give off that appearance from the highline?

96-97 F-350 SRW front rotors - specifically Carquest part # 54026. Autozone and Advance Auto rotors won't fit due to the inside of the hat not being machined out.
All credit to Jeff for figuring this out, I'm building a set of Spider 9's too and he let me in on this..

And then the usual '75 K-20 front calipers and some modified D-60 brackets for said calipers welded to the outer knuckles.




Or maybe it should go to the guy who sold him the brackets and showed him how to do it.... :flipoff2:


BTW- Good job Jeff, that came out nice.

What did you end up doing for shafts and joints?

Or maybe it should go to the guy who sold him the brackets and showed him how to do it.... :flipoff2:


Sorry man, just trying to not take credit for it myself. :D

Do you have any better pictures of what you did for the front inner fender wells?

The front tube fenders are our soon to be released production version, and they do include a full replacement inner fender. Laser cut and CNC bent with all the details people expect from us, nothing currently out there like them. I will post up when we have final pricing etc...

The main top is a TJ safari that is actually wrapped back under the front of the cage, that way when it rains you can pull it out and block the rear, creating a pseudo half cab. I will be installing the full stock soft top for the winter, cage was designed so it will fit.

Yes Tim was nice enough to help out with the brakes, his help is appreciated. Overall it works well, but like many Im not the biggest fan of the e-brake set-up with Eldorado rear calipers....but it does stop :) I ended up with Spidertrax front shafts and Longfield joints, pricey but worth it.

i knew there was hope for you guys releasing tube fenders...i only had to wait about 2ish years since i first saw them in a pic of that beast at EJS or something like that.

i knew there was hope for you guys releasing tube fenders...i only had to wait about 2ish years since i first saw them in a pic of that beast at EJS or something like that.

ditto... haha

i talked to jeff on the phone last year and they said they would not be making any.

i will be sure to order when they go into production!

phones lie...believe everything you see on the internet

Production fenders are coming soon, we have been doing custom sets at the shop for years and fine tuning the design along the way. For those interested send me a contact phone # in PM and I can put you on a list.

In order to keep the outside of the body clean the gas filler is located inside the tub mounted on top of the rear wheelwell.

new pic since it has been a while...

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/ram_mount_web_1.JPG

new pic since it has been a while...

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/ram_mount_web_1.JPG

Hydro assist?

bingo!

Finished up some other details over the past couple weeks...B-pillar cage tie-ins, reinforced rear upper control arm mounts at the frame and installed the hydro assist. More pics coming soon...

:D

Sweet!

I love this thing... interested to see more pics. :smokin:

Jeff, it was good to meet you guy at EJS 09 and I have to say again that this is one sick rig. :smokin: Lots of good ideas put into play here. I love the 'half cab' look of the cage and the way things flow. Keep up the good work and I hope to meet up with you guys again soon.

LJ is lookin' awesome Jeff, can't wait to see the finished product!

What lift are you using exactly?

Do you have a release date yet for the 'highline' fenders?

We are working through the final details on the fenders, not giving a date yet as the phone wont stop ringing as it is :p

Was able to make Holy Cross last Sat, had a great time and the Jeep worked great. Still a few small projects to do but overall its pretty much done for now.

Suspension is 2" OME coils front and rear, nothing fancy but works incredibly well.

I didnt have a camera on the trip so still working on getting all the pics from other but here's one...

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/cleveland_small.JPG

I like this build. By chance, would you happen to have any pics of the front 3rd member clearance and a shot showing the driveshaft to the axle? I'm trying to get a feel for how close everything is going to be up front when I 3 link mine and wanted to get an idea of center section positioning.

Thank you and keep up the good work!

nice build!!! :smokin:

Looks good. I wasnt too keen on the cage at first but its growing on me. Very unique.

Do you ever wish you had more belly clearance or a better break over angle? What is your belly clearance?

I guess you missed the question before but did you move the front axle forward at all?

Again, awesome jeep:smokin:

Keeping the vehicle low does cause the belly to drag a bit more but its not that dramatic. The added stability of the low COG far outweighs the drawbacks. Belly height is 20 1/2", stock is 9 3/4", the difference comes from tires and high clearance skids, with only 2" from suspension. Add in the great clearance from the Spidertrax housings and the amount of clearance is somewhat deceiving. This Jeep is the most stable full bodied vehicle I have wheeled or been a passenger in.

Sorry no shots of the front axle with driveshaft, this Jeep does use a low pinion 3rd so really no issues to deal with, on a high pinion things obviously get tighter.

The front axle is pushed forward a little more than an inch, steering box is still in the stock location.

Keeping the vehicle low does cause the belly to drag a bit more but its not that dramatic. The added stability of the low COG far outweighs the drawbacks. Belly height is 20 1/2", stock is 11 1/4", the difference comes from tires and high clearance skids, with only 2" from suspension. Add in the great clearance from the Spidertrax housings and the amount of clearance is somewhat deceiving. This Jeep is the most stable full bodied vehicle I have wheeled or been a passenger in.

Sorry no shots of the front axle with driveshaft, this Jeep does use a low pinion 3rd so really no issues to deal with, on a high pinion things obviously get tighter.

The front axle is pushed forward a little more than an inch, steering box is still in the stock location.

I measured my stock belly clearance at 9.75" at the lowest point. Just FYI. Also on an 05 unlimited.
http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa280/Scotch740/Tech%20pics/StockClearance9.jpg
Butt of the tape is 3.25"

do you have any vids of wheeling it?

no vids yet, hopefully get some before the snow hits the mountains

sweet, drive on over here to uwharrie and Ill take some vids for ya lol that LJ would probably laugh at uwharrie :D

What's the wheelbase ?????
I like the low stance of this rig & I am aiming for similar no's in belly clearance (21-22" with 105" WB on 40's)



brooksy

For those in southern CA the Jeep is on display in the Goodyear booth at the Pomona Offroad Expo through Sunday....we're here too so stop by and say hi!

wheelbase is 108", which so far has been awesome

We're back! Overall the show went quite well, lots of cool desert race stuff, and from what we hear the weather was a little better in CA :)

The Freak did have to share space with a buggy owned by some guy named Walker however ;)

http://www.rokmen.com/images/expo_09/expo_01.jpg

^^^^ thanks for the new screensaver

The Freak did have to share space with a buggy owned by some guy named Walker however ;)

You talkin' bout me??? :confused:

sorry but no, this Jeep has been refered to as the Freak by lots of people and the name has stuck...

Ok, since I think it's bad ass, I won't complain. :flipoff2:

Great looking rig I can only hope that mine will turn out this nice.

Do you have any pictures of the tank/rear axle move?

Nice write up in Petersen's 4Wheel & Off-road guys! :smokin:

(February 2010, pg.66)

Thanks Sean, haven't seen it yet though. :)

Ill work on getting some more pics up next week

Nice write up in Petersen's 4Wheel & Off-road guys! :smokin:

(February 2010, pg.66)

i think my subscription is slow, i haven't got mine yet?

Got my hands on a copy of Petersens, very nice to see the rig featured in such a prominent magazine. They didnt mention some of what I think makes the rig so unique like the mild rear stretch, gas tank relocation etc, but extremely cool and very pleased :)

Snapped a couple more pics showing some of the details...

On the LJ there is a nice little spot at the front of the rear wheelwells that allows you to go straight down to the frame with a cage tie-in.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/cage_foot_1.JPG

and

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/cage_frame_tiein_1.JPG



Relocated rear spring perch for the rear stretch as well as straightens up the coils.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/rear_spring_perch_1.JPG


Rear universal antirock that runs above the relocated gas tank

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/rear_antirock.JPG


Hydro assist on the front axle, gotta love the Spider knuckles as the customization options are endless

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/hydro_ram_1.JPG

When it comes to the relocated fuel tank you remove the crossmember closest to the front and utilize the rear one instead. Make some new mounts for the front of the skid and extend your fuel lines and your good to go.

Jeff, how about some details? :smokin:

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/rear_antirock.JPG

Sweet !

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/hydro_ram_1.JPG

killer rig, too bad they didn't do a full spread on your rig, I'm sure it would take up the entire magazine

Thanks for the compliments guys!

Sean, the rear universal antirock obviously involved some custom fab, namely mounting and reinforcing of the arms. Send me a PM and Ill help answer any detailed questions about it.

Looks awesome! Do you have any plans to switch to a long arm in the future?

Changing the suspension down the road is a possibility but the short arms work great so I'm in no hurry :)

That cage is awesome. It is nice to see a little variation from the norm. Any chance of some more close up pics of the rear parts of the cage and the rear tie ins?

Thanks for the compliments! Sorry no other detail pics of the rear of the cage, the spare tire mount blocks a lot of the structure for pics.

Overall the Jeep is working great, it is my DD and is driven daily....and on 42's now too :)

Thanks for the compliments! Sorry no other detail pics of the rear of the cage, the spare tire mount blocks a lot of the structure for pics.

Overall the Jeep is working great, it is my DD and is driven daily....and on 42's now too :)

I can vouch for the DD comment.
Jeff, I was next to you on HR Pkwy a couple of weeks ago in the morning... that thing looks sick rolling down the road on 42's! :eek:

BTW, I called the other day to get directions to come check out your rear sway bar, did Dave give you the message?

Hard to believe but this thing has been on the road for nearly a year now. The on-road performance is impressive; those who drive it or ride along are shocked that a rig on 42's can drive so well on the street. It tracks perfectly straight and can do 75+ without issue. On the trail it has performed incredibly well and we can't wait to get on some more trails this coming year.

As mentioned above we swapped up to 42's recently. The rig was built around 40's but the larger tires can fit with a little tweaking. We made some custom 6061 aluminum spacers to give the suspension a slight boost and outside very minor fender contact at the rear of the fender at full stuff these things could end up permanent. May try both tires on the trail next year, so far the 42's are great on road and are suprisingly quiet for such a large meat.

Ill post some more recent picture’s w/ the 42's soon, the one below is from an event in Vegas a couple months ago. We have also been working on a couple new vehicle builds at the shop as well so keep an eye out for a couple new build threads.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/lj_build_thread/vegas_42s.JPG

The story on the spacers is that we needed a quick solution to get the 42’s to fit and went w/ the standard poly jobbers…well they didn’t last 24 hrs (no joke), so when we got back to the shop I did it the right way and made our own.

http://www.rokmen.com/images/as_1.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/images/as_3.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/images/as_2.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/images/as_4.jpg

Absolutely fantastic!

Think you could post up a few more (larger the better!) pics?

I need some new wallpaper for my work PC!

Im about to relocate my gas tank just like yours. If you had any pictures of your new front mount Id like to see them.

Guys,you've got a sweet rig but as it sits it looks like it drove out of a salvage yard!Please paint it one color!!

Sorry no pics on the gas tank relocation. If you can handle a stretch then you should be able handle the remounting of the fuel tank :)

A paint job has been a topic of conversation lately, the current look could be better but its not bad enough to put it high on the priority list. The hardest part will be picking a solid color as I dont think silver is going to cut it. Anyone with color ideas post up, need to pick one before anything is going to change.

you got some purdy welds boy

Are you still using the factory mounts on the frame ends of your short arms?

i personally love the color combo you have.

I should probably keep my mouth shut, as the owner of a big silver and black half cab LJ on Spider 9s myself which might get repainted someday, but what the hell - I am a Rokmen fan. :)

I'd paint it Silverstone. It is:

a. A kick ass color, yet subtle
b. Factory, yet never available when the LJ was made
c. Close to the current paint so no one should notice if the firewall or other hidden parts aren't repainted

Looking forward to ordering some Strykers, Mercenaries, and bumpers this year.

Finally getting some work done on our website, we tend to spend our time in the shop rather than in front of the keyboard. We have updated our gallery with some vehicle builds and will be adding more over time. I just got the Freak page live so check out the additional pics...

http://www.rokmen.com/builds/builds_main.html

The Freak photo gallery looks good. I also like the addition of the tube fenders. Will you make a non hi-line tube fender?

Hiline fenders only for now, to us there is no reason to add them if there is no functional benefit (keep the rig lower while running larger tires).

gprguy, thanks for the idea but I dont think I will be stealing silverstone from you, it is a unique color but Im trying to get away from silver :) Im open to more ideas...

Thanks for the good words guys, there will be more updates as there are a couple small things I still want to do before EJS.

I like red. :flipoff2:

There is nothing I hate more than copycats, so paint yours so I dont look like one please.

I like red. :flipoff2:

lol, im a red fan

I like chevy's inferno orange, what about the jeep green? also audi has a cool brown http://www.autoblog.com/gallery/audi-r8-5-2-fsi-spyder/#10

Thanks for the ideas guys, you got me thinking for sure. Red is too common but that brown is very very nice, any idea on the actual name of the color?

It does look nice in those pictures.. But I don't think it looks so great in these:

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/13/detroit-2010-audi-r8-5-2-fsi-coupe-spyder-make-brown-look-good/

no bro The car hasn't even came out yet. I saw it at the chicago auto show, and it looks better in person. They said the car will be out pretty soon. Maybe call a audi dealership and see if they know.

I actually really like both colors, used to have a 78' CJ that was kind of a combo of rootbeer brown and gold...the color on the audi takes me back :) I might have to head to an audi dealer and try to get a closer look.

i think burnt orange would look good which is kinda what that is with a little more brown to it

Jeep was on display in our booth at EJS again this year, and right next to it was our most recently completed build....Freak named Jake. A lot of similarities to the this one with some subtle changes...when the first version works so well there's not much to change :)

Check out the build thread and our website for more details.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=866057&highlight=freak+named+jake

http://www.rokmen.com/builds/freak_named_jake/afreaknamedjake.html

http://www.rokmen.com/builds/freak_named_jake/jake58.jpg


prototype rear bumper added just before leaving for EJS

http://www.rokmen.com/builds/freak/freak66.jpg

a couple pics from Behind The Rocks

http://www.rokmen.com/builds/freak/freak62.jpg

http://www.rokmen.com/builds/freak/freak59.jpg

So how long a lead time before that prototype rear bumper goes into production? I am looking for that exact one.

how about dark bronze or copper and keep the sliders and rear corners semi gloss black. The front fenders must match the body but I actually like the 2 tone just not on the front fender.

I like this!!!!!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/__5eJCGdS_tw/S7v16D4GONI/AAAAAAAABcY/Oj8oygphOY4/s912/badone.jpg

UCTJ sent you a PM

We are looking into production of the rear bumper, anyone who is interested send me a PM.

I actually had a TJ before this that was that exact color and like it a lot. Not sure I would paint this one that color but who knows, I do like the bronze/copper/gold idea. I have a feeling paint is going to wait a bit, anxious to get out this summer and not sure I want the down time. Ideas are great, need to decide at some point...

UCTJ sent you a PM

We are looking into production of the rear bumper, anyone who is interested send me a PM.

I actually had a TJ before this that was that exact color and like it a lot. Not sure I would paint this one that color but who knows, I do like the bronze/copper/gold idea. I have a feeling paint is going to wait a bit, anxious to get out this summer and not sure I want the down time. Ideas are great, need to decide at some point...



PMed you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PM's back to everyone, thanks for looking!

tell me more about that rear bumper like when and how much.

Had some time to get some cage mounted mirrors installed, now I'm finally legal with the doors off

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/42's/freak64.jpg

These babies should make for some fun weekends :)

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/42's/freak63.jpg

We headed out a couple weeks ago for the shakedown run of Freak Named Jake, nothing crazy but was a great day!

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/42's/freak_chinamans_2.JPG

http://www.rokmen.com/images/lj_build/42's/jake_chinamans.JPG

I like those mirrors. Where'd you get them? Truck stop, motorcycle shop?

Mirrors are standard 5" convex stainless truck stop jobbers. Nothing fancy but they work well...now to figure out a center rearview mirror...

Mirrors are standard 5" convex stainless truck stop jobbers. Nothing fancy but they work well...now to figure out a center rearview mirror...

What about this?

http://www.polyperformance.com/shop/Universal-14-Convex-Buggy-Mirror-Kit-p-803.html

What about this?

http://www.polyperformance.com/shop/Universal-14-Convex-Buggy-Mirror-Kit-p-803.html

Screw that expensive mess. We know you like to look at yourself while wheelin. :flipoff2:

Get something with lights. :p

Impala rear view mirror (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/96-impala-ss-rear-view-mirror-caprice-roadmaster-b-body-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem335d6c4d45QQitemZ22061 0710853QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccesso ries)

Jeff needs something with Vanity lights so he can keep an eye on those purdy welds. :laughing:

Chevrolet Lumina Rear View Mirror With Vanity Lights (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet-Lumina-Rear-View-Mirror-Vanity-Lights-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem35a9b6b8deQQitemZ23048 0591070QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccesso ries)

Screw that expensive mess. We know you like to look at yourself while wheelin. :flipoff2:

Get something with lights. :p

Impala rear view mirror (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/96-impala-ss-rear-view-mirror-caprice-roadmaster-b-body-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem335d6c4d45QQitemZ22061 0710853QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccesso ries)

Jeff needs something with Vanity lights so he can keep an eye on those purdy welds. :laughing:

Chevrolet Lumina Rear View Mirror With Vanity Lights (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet-Lumina-Rear-View-Mirror-Vanity-Lights-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem35a9b6b8deQQitemZ23048 0591070QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccesso ries)
Well if it were me Id just use some mirror like what hes using as a sideview mirror or just adapt the stock mirror to the cage. But I figure with all them purdy welds he'd want a $60 dolla mirror.:flipoff2:

Rearview mirror isnt much of a concern, but one with vanity lights would be interesting :)

Have a couple other small projects I would like to work on but getting out and using the Jeep is much higher on the priority list for this summer....

it just struck me....I post a few pics, a couple of wheeling, one of sticky tires, and one of side mirrors....and all you guys talk about are the mirrors.

I thought Pirate was a hardcore forum :)

Hardcore takes a back seat to vanity.

so true Dookey, so true :)

Was able to sneak out on Sunday to Penrose with Sean, both Jeeps worked flawlessly, cant wait to get back

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4683441947_6f6909d145.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4683492333_07e2e10804.jpg


lots more pics can be found on our flickr account, check out the wheeling section at the link below...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/freakjeep/collections/

Thanks for the pics to drool over....I love your jeeps! Sean's new build looks great!

Glad I can help you get your fix Barrows :) Thanks too for the compliments.

With the Jeep working so well I'm on to thinking about small projects like cooler storage, better trail tool storage etc.

Seans Jeep does work well, still the only "bobbed" LJ I have seen in person or on the web :)

Any update/plans for the winter? :smokin:

Thanks for the reminder! .....I need to do an oil change :)

As we all know a vehicle is never truly "done" but for now it works so well there are no plans for any major changes. Been wheeling and driving it daily with no issues, couldn't be happier with how this platform performs on the trail and on the street.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5073529613_0d4ffcc14c.jpg

Been keeping real busy with other Freak builds, check out the link at the bottom for details and pics of the most recent projects.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4102/4764117911_74cf861f47.jpg

Skipwheat - 2004 LJ completed 7/2010
Spider9 Axles - 35 Spline Spidertrax Shafts, full float rear, ARB's front and rear
Custom Family Style Cage
Walker Evans Beadlocks, 37" Goodyear Kevlar MTR's
ROKMEN armor all around
Lots of custom touches...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4904723041_4e37eb0235.jpg

Fledge 2.0 - 2005 LJ in process
Spider9 Axles - 35 Spline Spidertrax Shafts, full float rear
Custom Family Style Cage
Front and Rear Stretch
PSC Hydro Assist Steering
Walker Evans Beadlocks, 40" Goodyear Kevlar MTR's
ROKMEN armor all around
Lots of custom touches...

Check out our gallery for more pics and details...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/freakjeep/collections/

Those are some pretty sweet build ups there..

man, i like the work you guys do. i'm going to be saving my pennies. do you guys have any stoke about bringing this sort of approach to a classic?

when will it be for sale? :D

what did you do for the brakes on the Freek? stopping those 42" with the stock pump?

Thanks guys, anyone interested in custom work just send me a PM.

Brakes have been upgraded with a master cylinder swap, stops just fine.

Next on the list is swapping to our new Big Hawse aluminum fairlead...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5073553889_28c71ac4e3.jpg

and 86chevyjoe....isnt everything for sale for the right price?

This is one of my favorite Jeeps!

Have gotten a couple PM's asking about updates on the original Freak. No major changes have been made. The more it gets wheeled the less likely major changes will happen, its point and shoot on just about any trail we have been on.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2014/5755424408_aab520d402_z.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3273/5839257989_12e9010da8_z.jpg

Been real busy at the shop with mfg, builds, and installs. Some of the more recent stuff to come out of the shop below.

Fledge 2.0
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2654/5711289867_f2d3d4af00_z.jpg
more pics at the following link - http://www.flickr.com/photos/freakjeep/sets/72157624629541345/?page=2


Niblet - The shop Jeep
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6004/5941420618_edcb1ce742_z.jpg
for more info check out the link - http://www.flickr.com/photos/freakjeep/sets/72157626580866447/

damn Jeff I gotta tell you....these LJ's your putting out there are absolutely sick.