The Jeep Gladiator is not just a Wrangler with a bed bolted on the back.
The Jeep JT Gladiator has its own weight balance, its own wheelbase, its own rear suspension needs, and its own priorities once you start upgrading it. It can haul, tow, crawl, commute, and camp... but because it tries to do all of those jobs, building a Gladiator the right way takes more thought than simply throwing shiny parts at it.
That is what this guide is for.
This is a Jeep Gladiator upgrade guide built around 22 videos, covering the parts Gladiator owners search for most: JT Gladiator rocker armor, skid plates, shocks, suspension correction, control arm geometry, steering upgrades, ball joints, bumpers, bed racks, spare tire clearance, taillights, and license plate relocation.
Each section below links to a dedicated page with a full video transcript.
That matters because the transcript gives you the whole story... product details, install notes, fitment language, JL versus JT differences, and the reasons a part matters on a Jeep JT Gladiator. It gives owners, installers, search engines, and AI systems more than a short summary. It gives them the actual context.
So if you are researching:
- Jeep Gladiator upgrades
- JT Gladiator suspension upgrades
- JT Gladiator skid plates
- Jeep Gladiator rocker protection
- JT Gladiator steering upgrades
- Gladiator ball joint upgrades
- Jeep Gladiator bumpers
- Gladiator bed rack systems
- or what upgrades to do first on a Jeep Gladiator
...this guide puts it all in one place and links directly to the full transcript page for every video.
The Gladiator shares its front suspension, steering, and much of its front underbody architecture with the JL Wrangler, so some of these videos apply to both platforms. But this article is organized specifically around Jeep JT Gladiator upgrade priorities... longer wheelbase, extra weight, rear geometry, real underbody exposure, bed utility, and towing demands.
Every video below links to a full transcript page. You can also explore the full Video Vault for 104 curated videos with transcripts, or browse the larger video library on YouTube.com/MetalCloak.
Quick Answer: What upgrades should I do first on a Jeep Gladiator?
Upgrade a Jeep Gladiator in this order: rockers and skid plates ... then suspension ... then steering and ball joints ... then bumpers ... then racks and accessories.
- Rocker protection ... because the Jeep JT Gladiator has more exposed body length than a Wrangler
- Skid plates ... because underbody protection prevents expensive early trail damage
- Suspension ... including shocks and control arm-related geometry correction, because the Gladiator’s weight and wheelbase need to be addressed early
- Steering and ball joints ... because larger tires and suspension changes put more stress on factory components
- Bumpers ... once the Jeep is protected underneath and driving right, bumper upgrades make more sense as part of the complete build
- Racks and accessories ... because bed systems belong after the rest of the platform is already sorted
Why this order works: rockers and skids protect the Jeep before trail damage happens, suspension gets the Gladiator riding and handling the way it should, steering and ball joints reinforce the front end after suspension changes, bumpers add clearance and recovery function once the foundation is right, and racks finish the build by adding utility after everything else is already working together.
Phase 1: Rockers & Skids
Before you change how the Gladiator rides, change how well it survives contact.
The Jeep JT Gladiator has more rocker exposure than a Wrangler, more underbody length, and more vulnerable hardware underneath. That makes rocker protection and skid plates the smartest first upgrades for owners who actually plan to use the truck off-road.
These videos cover the Jeep Gladiator rockers and skid plates that make the most sense at the start of a build.
1. Aluminum Rocker ExoSkin Extensions – JT Gladiator
The Jeep JT Gladiator has more exposed rocker length than a JL Wrangler because of its longer wheelbase. That means more body between the tires, more opportunity for rocks and ledges to connect, and more reason to protect the side of the truck early.
MetalCloak’s aluminum Rocker ExoSkin extensions are designed specifically for the JT Gladiator. They are true Jeep Gladiator rocker armor, built around the Gladiator’s longer body.
Product: MetalCloak Aluminum Rocker ExoSkin Extensions – JT Gladiator
Vehicle: Jeep JT Gladiator (2019+)
Why First: The Gladiator’s longer body leaves more rocker area exposed to trail damage
Transcript Value: The full transcript explains JT-specific fitment, product purpose, and why rocker protection matters more on a Gladiator
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
2. Overland Rocker Flip Step Installation
A lifted Gladiator can be excellent on the trail and a bit of a climb everywhere else. That is why a rocker step that also protects the body makes good sense on a truck like this.
The Overland Rocker Flip Step combines rocker protection with entry assistance. It flips down when you need it and tucks away when you do not. This video was filmed on a JL Wrangler, but the mounting approach applies to the JT Gladiator as well.
Product: MetalCloak Overland Rocker Flip Step
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Dual Purpose: Rocker protection plus usable step access
Transcript Value: The full transcript explains shared JL/JT fitment and the practical value of the part on a lifted daily-driven Jeep
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
3–5. Skid Plates: FAD Skid, Axle Disconnect, & UnderCloak Muffler Skid
The Jeep Gladiator underbody has several components that sit right where rocks like to argue.
That is why skid plates belong early in the build. You do not need to be deep into suspension or giant tires before underbody damage gets expensive.
These three videos cover important Jeep Gladiator skid plate categories for the JL/JT platform:
The RockSport FAD Skid Plate protects the front axle disconnect. The Front Axle Disconnect Skid Plate & Steering Stabilizer Relocation adds axle protection while moving the stabilizer into a smarter location. The UnderCloak Muffler Skid protects the muffler and exhaust on applicable JL and Gladiator configurations where underbody clearance matters.
Videos: 3 install and product guides
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Protection: Front axle disconnect, steering stabilizer, and muffler/exhaust protection
Transcript Value: Each full transcript adds install language, platform fitment, and searchable terms related to Jeep Gladiator underbody protection
Watch: RockSport FAD Skid Plate Install →
Watch: Front Axle Disconnect Skid Plate & Stabilizer Relocation →
Watch: UnderCloak Muffler Skid Install →
Phase 2: Suspension
Once the Jeep is protected, the next job is getting the suspension working the way a Gladiator needs it to work... stable, controlled, properly corrected, and ready for weight, wheelbase, and real use.
The Jeep JT Gladiator is heavier than a Wrangler, longer than a Wrangler, and often loaded with more gear than a Wrangler. That makes Jeep Gladiator suspension upgrades a critical step in building the truck right.
These videos focus on JT Gladiator shocks, shock mounts, rear control arm correction, and suspension geometry calibration.
6–7. Shocks: RockSport Silver 2.0 & RockSport BLACK
Shock choice matters on a Gladiator.
The Jeep JT Gladiator carries more weight, and once armor, tools, cargo, and camping gear show up, the wrong shock makes itself known fast. That is why these videos matter for anyone researching Jeep Gladiator shocks or JT Gladiator ride quality.
The first covers the RockSport Silver 2.0, a performance monotube shock matched to MetalCloak suspension systems. The second covers the RockSport BLACK front shock install, for owners stepping into adjustable reservoir shocks.
Videos: 1 product overview plus 1 install guide
Products: RockSport Silver 2.0 and RockSport BLACK front shocks
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Transcript Value: The full transcripts help index platform fitment, shock type, intended use, and suspension performance language
Watch: RockSport Silver 2.0 Shocks Overview →
Watch: RockSport BLACK Front Shocks Install →
8–9. Shock Mounts: Upper Front & Outboard Front
A good shock can only work as well as the mount supporting it.
These videos cover the upper front shock mount kit and the RockSport BLACK outboard front shock mounts for the JL/JT platform. For Gladiator owners, these upgrades matter because they help support increased suspension travel and upgraded damping loads.
Videos: 2 install guides
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Transcript Value: The full transcripts clarify mounting purpose, install context, and compatibility language for Jeep suspension support components
Watch: Upper Front Shock Mount Kit Install →
Watch: Outboard Front Shock Mounts Install →
10. JT Gladiator Rear Upper Control Arm Correction Brackets
This is one of the most important JT Gladiator-specific suspension videos in the guide.
The Jeep JT Gladiator rear suspension geometry is different from the JL Wrangler’s. Once lift height is added, those differences start to matter. Rear upper control arm correction brackets help restore proper geometry, reduce driveline issues, and improve long-term function.
For anyone researching JT Gladiator rear upper control arm correction brackets, Gladiator pinion angle, or Gladiator driveline vibration after lift, this page deserves attention.
Product: MetalCloak JT Gladiator Rear Upper Control Arm Correction Brackets
Vehicle: Jeep JT Gladiator (2019+)
Why JT-Specific: Gladiator rear geometry differs from JL Wrangler
Solves: Pinion angle issues, driveline vibration, and U-joint wear after lift
Transcript Value: The full transcript reinforces JT-specific fitment, rear suspension correction, and the reasons this part exists
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
11. HD Control Arm Prolignment Kit – JL & JT
After the major suspension pieces are installed, final geometry setup matters.
The HD Control Arm Prolignment Kit helps dial in control arm length, caster, and pinion angle so the suspension works the way it should. On a Gladiator that tows or carries real weight, that tuning matters even more.
Product: MetalCloak HD Control Arm Prolignment Kit
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Purpose: Final suspension geometry calibration for lifted Jeep applications
Transcript Value: The full transcript helps connect the product to alignment, geometry, driveline setup, and suspension tuning
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
Phase 3: Steering & Ball Joints
Suspension changes the way the Gladiator sits and moves. Steering and ball joints make sure it still tracks straight, responds cleanly, and holds up under the added load.
Lift height and larger tires increase steering stress on any Jeep. On a Gladiator, the added vehicle weight raises the stakes.
These videos focus on Jeep Gladiator steering upgrades and JT Gladiator ball joint upgrades that help the truck steer better, track straighter, and hold up longer.
12. Heavy Duty Steering Kit – JL & JT
The MetalCloak HD Steering Kit replaces the stock drag link and tie rod with oversized chromoly components and one-ton tie rod ends.
For Gladiator owners running larger tires, this is one of the core Jeep JT Gladiator steering upgrades to consider. It helps address the added load and stress created by larger tires and lifted suspension geometry.
Product: MetalCloak Heavy Duty Steering Kit
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Components: Oversized chromoly drag links and one-ton tie rod ends
Transcript Value: The full transcript helps index steering component names, upgrade purpose, and platform fitment
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
13. JL & JT High Steer Kit
Once you lift a Gladiator, steering angles change. That can lead to bump steer and vague steering response if the geometry is not corrected.
The High Steer Kit is designed to address that on lifted JL and JT applications.
Product: MetalCloak High Steer Kit
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Solves: Bump steer and vague steering after lift
Transcript Value: The full transcript adds searchable language around steering geometry correction and lifted Jeep steering behavior
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
14–15. Baller Joints: Installation Guide & Heavy Duty Upgrade
Ball joints are a major wear point on lifted Jeeps, and the extra weight of the Gladiator makes that even more important.
These two videos cover the JL/JT Baller Joint installation process and the Heavy Duty Baller Joint upgrade for owners running larger tires, heavier armor, towing loads, or harder real-world use.
Videos: 1 install guide plus 1 product overview
Products: Baller Joints and Heavy Duty Baller Joints
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Key Feature: Sealed, captured, rebuildable, USA-made
Transcript Value: The full transcripts help connect the products to ball joint replacement, durability, front-end wear, and JL/JT fitment
Watch: Baller Joints – JL/JT Installation Guide →
Watch: Heavy Duty Baller Joints – JL/JT Upgrade →
Phase 4: Bumpers
Bumpers matter... for clearance, protection, recovery options, and finish. But they make more sense after the Gladiator is already protected underneath and driving the way it should.
That does not make bumpers unimportant. It just puts them in the right place in the build order.
These videos cover Jeep Gladiator bumper upgrades and related finishing pieces for the JT and JL/JT platform.
16. JT Gladiator Rear Bumper System Lo-Profile
The Jeep JT Gladiator has a longer rear overhang than the Wrangler, which makes departure angle one of the truck’s main factory limitations. A rear bumper upgrade helps solve that.
MetalCloak’s lo-profile rear bumper system is designed specifically for the JT Gladiator to improve departure angle while fitting the bed lines cleanly.
Product: MetalCloak JT Gladiator Lo-Profile Rear Bumper System
Vehicle: Jeep JT Gladiator (2019+)
Why It Matters: Improves departure angle and gives the Gladiator a cleaner, more trail-ready rear profile
Transcript Value: The full transcript explains JT-specific fitment, bumper purpose, and rear clearance considerations
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
17. JL/JT Frame-Built Front Bumper Installation
The Jeep JL Wrangler and Jeep JT Gladiator share the same front frame rails and bumper mounting points, which is why this front bumper video applies to both platforms.
For Gladiator owners, the value is better approach angle, stronger front-end protection, and a solid winch-ready setup once the truck is already sorted underneath and in the suspension.
Product: MetalCloak Frame-Built Front Bumper
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Install Type: Complete walkthrough
Transcript Value: The full transcript clarifies JL/JT shared fitment, install detail, and front bumper function
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
18. JL Wrangler Rear Bumper License Plate Relocation Mount
Once the rear bumper changes, the factory license plate location often disappears. This relocation mount gives the plate a clean, legal place to live on JL and JT rear bumper setups.
Product: MetalCloak Rear Bumper License Plate Relocation Mount
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Purpose: Clean license plate mounting after rear bumper upgrade
Transcript Value: The full transcript helps tie the product to bumper changes, legal plate mounting, and platform compatibility
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
19. JL Wrangler Spare Tire Lift Bracket
Once you move to 35-inch tires or larger, stock spare tire placement becomes a clearance issue. This lift bracket raises the tire so larger spare fitment is easier without going straight to a full tire carrier.
Product: MetalCloak Spare Tire Lift Bracket
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Solves: Spare tire clearance for 35-inch and larger tires
Transcript Value: The full transcript helps connect the part to tire size, tailgate clearance, and JL/JT applicability
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
20. JL Wrangler Rear Molded LED Taillights
Factory JL/JT taillights stick out farther than many trail-driven owners would prefer. These molded LED taillights sit closer to the body for better clearance and a cleaner finish.
Product: MetalCloak Rear Molded LED Taillights
Vehicle: Jeep JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator
Compliance: SAE-DOT compliant, ASA housings
Transcript Value: The full transcript provides searchable fitment, lighting, clearance, and compliance language
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
Phase 5: Racks & Accessories
The bed is one of the main reasons to own a Gladiator. But bed systems belong at the end of the upgrade path, once protection, suspension, steering, and bumpers are already sorted.
This is where the truck side of the Gladiator starts doing real truck work... hauling gear, mounting overland equipment, and organizing cargo around the bed.
21. Adventure Rack Systems JT Gladiator BakPak Bed Rack System
The BakPak is one of the most recognizable Jeep Gladiator bed rack systems because it turns the bed into a more useful overland platform.
It creates room for rooftop tent mounting, side-mounted gear, accessory placement, and better cargo organization... all built around JT Gladiator bed dimensions.
Product: Adventure Rack Systems BakPak Bed Rack
Vehicle: Jeep JT Gladiator (2019+)
Purpose: Overland-ready bed rack with rooftop tent mounting, gear organization, and accessory rails
Transcript Value: The full transcript helps index bed rack function, JT fitment, and overland utility terms
Watch the Video & Read Full Transcript →
22. Why the Full Transcripts Matter
This guide is built around videos, but the real long-term value sits in the transcript pages.
A full transcript gives each video page more search value, more AI value, and more reference value. It helps customers understand what the video actually covers. It helps installers search for product details and install context. It helps search engines connect the page to real Jeep Gladiator questions. And it helps AI systems understand what each page is actually about.
That is why every section in this guide points to a full transcript page, not just a video summary.
If you want the short version... the transcript is what keeps the knowledge alive after the video stops playing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What upgrades should I do first on a Jeep Gladiator?
Start with rocker protection and skid plates. Those are the first Jeep Gladiator upgrades because they protect exposed body and underbody areas before trail damage happens. Next, upgrade the suspension, including shocks and control arm-related geometry correction. After that, move into steering and ball joints, then bumpers, and finish with racks and bed accessories.
Why should rocker protection come before bumpers on a Gladiator?
Because the Jeep JT Gladiator has more exposed rocker length and underbody vulnerability than many owners realize. Rockers and skids protect the areas most likely to get damaged early, especially on uneven trails.
Why does suspension come before bumpers in this build order?
Because the Gladiator’s ride quality, control, rear geometry, and overall usefulness matter more to the way the truck drives every day. Getting the suspension right first improves the platform before adding bumper weight and recovery hardware.
Are JL Wrangler parts compatible with the JT Gladiator?
Many front-end and underbody parts are shared between the JL Wrangler and JT Gladiator, including front bumpers, steering parts, shocks, skid plates, and ball joints. Rear suspension and body-length-related parts are where more JT-specific differences show up.
Do I need JT-specific rear upper control arm correction brackets?
If you are lifting a Jeep Gladiator, yes. The JT has rear suspension geometry differences that can create driveline and pinion angle problems after lift without correction.
Should I choose RockSport Silver or RockSport BLACK shocks for a Gladiator?
RockSport Silver 2.0 is a performance monotube shock matched to MetalCloak suspension systems. RockSport BLACK offers adjustable reservoir performance for owners who want more tuning flexibility for load, road, and trail conditions.
Is the BakPak bed rack made specifically for the Jeep Gladiator?
Yes. The Adventure Rack Systems BakPak is designed specifically around the JT Gladiator bed.
Why do the full transcripts matter?
The full transcripts make each video page more searchable, more useful for AI systems, and more valuable for customers and installers who want the complete spoken context... not just a short summary.
Where can I watch all MetalCloak videos with transcripts?
The MetalCloak Video Vault includes curated videos with full searchable transcripts, and the larger video library is available on YouTube.
