METALCLOAK VIDEO: How to Build Your Jeep, Part 2 - Tires, Wheels & Suspension
In part two of our three-part "How to Build Your Jeep" series, we move from protection to performance by upgrading tires, wheels, and suspension. After outfitting the Jeep with MetalCloak body armor in part one, we install 37" Milestar Patagonia XT tires on wheels with the proper backspacing, then test the new setup on the CTI trailer. Finding tire size alone reduces CTI travel due to added height, we add the MetalCloak 2.5" True Dual Rate Lift Kit (with Duroflex Control Arms, Durotrak Track Bar, True Dual-Rate Coils, and RockSport Red Shocks), test again—seeing a substantial CTI improvement—and retackle the obstacle that previously stopped us. The video closes by outlining how this entry-level package can be built into the 3.5" Game-Changer Suspension in part three.
Complete Transcript with Time Stamps:
[00:00] In part one of this how to build a Jeep series, we've upgraded the Jeep with body armor. Specifically, we added the UnderCloak Skid Plate System, Front and Rear Differential Covers, the Overland Rocker Base and Flip Step, Front and Rear Frame-Built Bumpers, and the Overland Tube Fender System.
[00:20] With those upgrades installed, we were able to confidently get off-road and tackle some off-road challenges and find the limits of the Jeep. So now that the Jeep is protected, what should we upgrade next? You probably guessed it. Tires and wheels. Finally.
[00:35] Upgrading your tires and wheels gives additional ground clearance and allows you to roll over larger obstacles with less effort when out on the trail. And it's a great way to customize the look of your Jeep with your own personal style.
[00:48] We chose the 37" Milestar Patagonia XT tires for the great road manners and fantastic off-road performance. We mounted the tires to set the wheels with the correct back spacing for a look we really like. Now these work perfectly for our needs, but do your own research and find the tires and wheels that are right for you and your setup.
[01:10] Now that the larger tires are installed, let's see how we do on the CTI trailer. After our measurements, our new CTI score has actually gone down. Up travel has greatly been decreased. But what is the limiting factor to our travel?
[01:24] You might have guessed it. The suspension height. But what suspension is going to work best for your build? Mid arm? Long arm? Are you doing extreme wheeling? A little Over Landing? Or daily commuter with occasional off road excursions? How do you get what's best for you?
[01:42] Luckily, here at MetalCloak, our patented technologies are featured in all of our suspension packages, from our entry level kits to our top level systems. Even more important is that the entry level systems can have components added over time for additional performance to meet your needs. You can start at an affordable price and build it up as your experience and pocketbook allows.
[02:06] The system we will be starting with is the MetalCloak 2.5" True Dual-Rate Lift Kit. This kit provides additional flex and articulation you want without breaking the bank. Choose from either the 2.5" or 3.5" system.
[02:21] This kit provides our patented technology like our Duroflex Front Upper Control Arms, Durotrak Track Bar, True Dual Rate Coils, and with multiple different shock options, we chose to use our RockSport Red Shocks for a great price point with amazing performance. We also optioned it with a front drive shaft. This entry level package provides everything you need to begin your off-road journey.
[02:46] After installing the 2.5" Dual Rate Lift Kit on the 4xe, we tested it on the CTI trailer and got a score of 840. That's 480 points higher than our last test.
[02:59] Now that the Jeep has the added lift and tires, let's go back out and see how it does. Okay. So here we are at the obstacle that stopped us last time. Let's see if we can make it this time. Alright. With the 2.5" True Dual Rate Lift Kit and 37" tires, we were able to clear the obstacle.
[03:20] The Jeep is now protected with MetalCloak body armor, has upgraded tires and wheels, a capable suspension package. What is next? Well, many customers would be happy to wrap it up right here. After all, you've got a very capable trail rig now.
[03:35] Well, if you're interested in upgrading to the ultimate package and seeing just how well your Jeep can handle off-road driving while maintaining better than factory on-road performance, then it may be time to add a few parts and upgrade. Stay tuned for our third and final video in this series when we'll be adding the components, taking this from the True Dual Rate 2.5" system and building it into the 3.5" Game-Changer Suspension.
[04:01] MetalCloak, it's your Jeep, only better.
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