Axleboy Offroad – St Louis

Ford F-150, F-250 & F-350 Leveling Kits in St. Louis – Add Stance Without Losing Ride Quality

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

A leveling kit is one of the most popular upgrades for Ford truck owners in St. Louis. It brings the front end up for a stronger stance, improves tire clearance, and reduces factory rake. But when installed incorrectly, leveling kits can create harsh ride quality, poor alignment, rubbing, and steering wander — especially on Missouri highways.

Ford F-150 and Super Duty trucks respond differently to leveling, so choosing the correct parts is essential. This guide explains how to level your Ford truck correctly and avoid the problems that come from cheap or incomplete kits.

For a complete overview of Ford truck upgrades, Click Here.

1. Why Leveling Kits Matter for Ford Trucks in St. Louis

A leveling kit changes front-end geometry more than most owners expect. Even a small 1.5–2.5 inch level affects caster angle, shock performance, tire fitment, and steering behavior.

Common Problems From Incorrect Leveling

Steering wander on I-70 or I-64
Harsh ride on cracked St. Louis pavement
Premature tire wear
Inability to achieve proper alignment
Rubbing with 33–35 inch tires

If your goals involve more height than a basic level, compare your options in the lift kit guide.
https://www.axleboy.com/ford-truck-lift-kit-guide

2. Leveling Ford F-150 Trucks

The Ford F-150 uses independent front suspension, which is highly sensitive to changes in ride height.

Common Problems After F-150 Leveling

Reduced caster angle
Limited alignment range
Upper ball joint stress
Bump steer on rough roads

Recommended Leveling Components for F-150

Coilover leveling systems
Upgraded upper control arms for alignment correction
Extended-travel shocks
Wheels with proper offset to clear 33–35 inch tires

These changes ensure a leveled F-150 drives smoothly and maintains strong daily-driver comfort.

3. Leveling Ford F-250 & F-350 Super Duty Trucks

Super Duty trucks rely on solid front axles. When the ride height increases, the caster angle decreases and the axle shifts laterally unless corrected.

Common Super Duty Leveling Issues

Steering drift
Axle shift
Nervous highway feel
Towing instability

Recommended Super Duty Leveling Components

Coil spring leveling kits
Adjustable track bar
Caster-correcting radius arms
High-quality shocks

To improve steering performance after leveling, review the steering upgrade guide.

4. Correct Tire Sizes After Leveling

The right tire size prevents rubbing and maintains predictable handling.

F-150 Tire Guidance

33-inch tires: direct fit
35-inch tires: may require trimming depending on offset

F-250/F-350 Tire Guidance

35-inch tires: ideal fit
37-inch tires: feasible with proper wheel specs

If you’re upgrading to larger tires, you may need to restore lost power.

Learn more in the regearing guide.

5. The Axleboy Approach to Ford Leveling in St. Louis

Axleboy Offroad installs leveling systems that maintain factory geometry and long-term reliability. Unlike simple spacer installs, this approach focuses on drivability, alignment, and component longevity.

A Proper Leveling Installation Includes

Correct springs or coilovers
Proper caster restoration
Track bar adjustments for Super Duty trucks
Matched shocks
Professional alignment
Steering wheel recentering

With the right setup, leveled Ford trucks drive confidently through St. Louis and the surrounding metro.

Conclusion

A leveling kit should improve your truck’s stance, not compromise its handling. When installed with proper geometry correction, Ford F-150 and Super Duty trucks maintain safe steering, stable ride quality, and excellent daily-driver performance.

For all Ford upgrade categories, Click Here.

Lifted Ford F-150, F-250 & F-350 Trucks in St. Louis – Avoid the Common Ride and Towing Mistakes

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

Many St. Louis Ford truck owners upgrade to lift kits for bigger tires, better trail performance, and a more commanding stance. But the wrong lift kit — or an incomplete one — can lead to steering wander, harsh ride quality, driveline vibrations, and unsafe towing behavior.

Ford trucks require lift systems designed around platform-specific geometry. This guide covers how to lift your Ford F-150 or Super Duty correctly and avoid the common mistakes that compromise drivability.

Before choosing a lift, you may want to review leveling options.

1. Why Lifted Ford Trucks Develop Handling Problems

Lifting a truck increases leverage on suspension and steering components. Larger tires add rotational mass and amplify these effects.

Common Problems With Poorly Installed Lift Kits

Steering wander
Bump steer
Harsh or inconsistent ride
Driveline vibration
Poor towing stability

These issues result from incorrect geometry correction.

2. Lifting Ford F-150 Trucks

The F-150’s independent front suspension requires specific components to maintain proper geometry at taller ride heights.

F-150 Lift Problems

Ball joint binding
Limited caster recovery
Inadequate alignment range
Harsh top-out with spacer lifts

Better Lift Solutions for F-150

Coilover lift systems
Upgraded upper control arms
Matched rear shocks
Proper wheel offset

F-150 owners adding 35–37 inch tires benefit greatly from upgraded control arms and higher-quality shocks.

3. Lifting Ford F-250 & F-350 Super Duty Trucks

Super Duty trucks rely on precise caster and track bar geometry to maintain highway stability.

Super Duty Lift Problems

Steering instability
Driveline angle issues
Off-center axle
Reduced towing capability

Recommended Lift Components for Super Duty

Coil or coilover lift systems
Adjustable track bars
Caster-correcting radius arms
Upgraded tie rods and drag links

To further stabilize steering, read the steering upgrade guide.

4. Shock Selection for Lifted Ford Trucks

Shocks make the biggest difference in ride comfort.

Recommended Shock Brands

Bilstein
Fox
King (for heavy off-road use)

Quality shocks improve damping, reduce harshness, and increase control.

5. Towing Stability for Lifted Ford Trucks

Lift kits alter hitch height, weight transfer, and trailer dynamics.

Recommended Towing Upgrades

Helper air bags
Rear sway bars
Correct hitch adjustment
Trailer brake controller calibration

For power loss caused by bigger tires, see the regearing guide.

Conclusion

A lifted Ford F-150 or Super Duty truck should be more capable, not harder to control. By choosing complete lift systems with proper geometry components, you avoid the problems that frustrate so many owners.

Explore all Ford upgrade categories.

Fix Sloppy Steering in Ford F-150, F-250 & F-350 Trucks – St. Louis Guide

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

Steering problems are common among Ford truck owners in St. Louis, especially after adding larger tires or suspension lifts. Wandering on the highway, loose steering feel, and bump-induced shimmy are symptoms of worn components or incorrect geometry — but they are entirely fixable.

This guide breaks down the most common steering causes for Ford F-150 and Super Duty trucks and the upgrades that restore stable, confident control.

If your truck was recently leveled, you may find additional insight here.

1. Why Ford Steering Becomes Sloppy

Ford steering issues typically develop because components wear or geometry changes with modifications.

Common Causes of Poor Steering

Worn ball joints
Tie rod flex
Drag link wear
Low caster after a lift
Axle shift (Super Duty)
Weak steering stabilizers

These create a vague, unpredictable steering feel over time.

2. Steering Issues on Ford F-150 Trucks

The F-150’s rack-and-pinion design makes it sensitive to wheel alignment and tire size.

Typical F-150 Steering Symptoms

Bump steer
Off-center steering wheel
Uneven tire wear
Loose or vague steering feel

Recommended F-150 Steering Upgrades

Heavy-duty tie rods
Upper control arms
Increased caster alignment
Steering rack stiffeners

3. Steering Issues on Ford F-250 & F-350 Super Duty Trucks

Super Duty steering issues often worsen when lifted or when running heavier tires.

Typical Super Duty Steering Symptoms

Steering wander
Harsh feedback
Bump-induced shimmy
Reduced towing stability

Recommended Steering Upgrades for Super Duty

Adjustable track bar
Heavy-duty tie rods
Drag link upgrade
Steering stabilizers
Caster-correcting radius arms

For more details on geometry correction, see the lift kit guide.

4. How Axleboy Fixes Ford Steering in St. Louis

Steering should be addressed as a complete system, not a single component swap.

Core Steering Upgrades

Tie rods
Drag links
Ball joints
Steering stabilizers
Track bar upgrades
Precision alignment
Steering wheel recentering

Add or Upgrade Steering Stabilizers

Reduces shimmy
Smooths steering feel
Helps control heavy tires
Improves straight-line stability

5. When Steering Problems Are Really a Gearing Issue

Large tires can make a truck feel sluggish off-center, which many owners mistake for “bad steering.” Learn more in the regearing guide.

Conclusion

Ford trucks should not wander or feel unstable. With proper alignment, upgraded steering components, and corrected geometry, Ford F-150 and Super Duty trucks regain the tight, predictable steering feel owners expect on St. Louis roads.

For a full overview of upgrade options, Click Here.

Regear Your Ford F-150, F-250 & F-350 for Bigger Tires – Restore Power and Towing Strength in St. Louis

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

Upgrading to larger tires transforms the look and capability of Ford trucks across St. Louis, but it also changes the final drive ratio. This leads to sluggish acceleration, excessive downshifting, and weakened towing performance. Regearing restores lost torque and optimizes your truck’s drivability.

This guide explains why F-150 and Super Duty owners experience power loss with 35–37 inch tires, how differential gears solve the issue, and what gear ratios work best for real-world driving in and around St. Louis.

For an overview of all Ford upgrade paths, Click Here.

1. Why Bigger Tires Reduce Power on Ford Trucks

Large tires increase the distance the differential must turn to rotate the wheels one full revolution. This alters your truck’s final drive ratio.

Common Symptoms After Going Bigger on Tires

Slow acceleration
Frequent downshifting on I-70 and I-64
Poor towing torque
Lower fuel economy
Transmission running hotter than normal

These issues affect both F-150 and Super Duty platforms.

If your truck also wanders after installing larger tires, review the steering guide.

2. Why Regearing Fixes Power Loss

Regearing the front and rear differentials restores the factory relationship between RPM and wheel speed. This puts your engine back into the powerband where it performs best.

What Regearing Improves

Faster acceleration
Better towing power
More stable highway RPM
Less transmission stress
Smoother shifting
Improved drivability with 35–37 inch tires

Ford trucks respond extremely well to proper differential gearing.

3. Regearing Ford F-150 Trucks

The Ford F-150’s 10-speed transmission adapts well to tire changes, but even this modern transmission struggles when tires become too large.

Recommended Gear Ratios for F-150

33-inch tires: Often okay on stock gears
35-inch tires: 4.10 or 4.56
37-inch tires: 4.56 or 4.88

Higher gear ratios provide better towing and smoother in-town driving.

If your truck is leveled or lifted, you may also benefit from this guide.

4. Regearing Ford F-250 & F-350 Super Duty Trucks

Super Duty trucks feel the effects of big tires even more than half-ton models because of towing expectations and diesel torque curves.

Recommended Gear Ratios for Super Duty

35-inch tires: 4.10 or 4.30
37-inch tires: 4.30 or 4.56
Heavy towing setups: Consider 4.56 regardless of tire size

These ratios keep the engine in its ideal RPM range during towing and hill climbs.

5. How Axleboy Performs a Professional Ford Regear

Regearing is precision work and requires careful setup.

Regearing Includes

Analyze your situation and determine the proper regear
High-quality gear sets
Measuring backlash and gear mesh
Setting pinion preload
Pattern verification
Controlled break-in procedure

A proper regear restores the power and drivability Ford owners expect.

Conclusion

If your Ford F-150 or Super Duty feels sluggish after installing larger tires, regearing is the most effective solution. Proper differential ratios bring back torque, towing strength, and daily drivability throughout the St. Louis area.

For additional upgrades that complement regearing, Click Here.

Ford Truck Lighting Upgrades in St. Louis – Improve Night Visibility and Trail Safety

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

For an overview of all Ford upgrade paths, Click Here.

1. Why Lighting Upgrades Matter for Ford Trucks

Ford trucks are used for a wide range of tasks — commuting, towing, trail use, and hauling equipment. Upgrading factory lighting helps drivers see farther, identify obstacles sooner, and avoid unsafe glare.

Common Lighting Problems

Dim factory headlights
Poor beam patterns
Reduced visibility in bad weather
Lack of dedicated trail lighting

Cheap lights often scatter beams and blind oncoming traffic, causing safety issues.

2. Headlight Upgrades for Ford F-150 and Super Duty Trucks

Upgraded headlights improve clarity and range without producing glare.

Recommended Headlight Upgrades

DOT-approved LED housings
HID projector systems
Fog light replacement units
Adaptive beam upgrades (where applicable)

Matching lighting temperature prevents mismatched colors.

3. Auxiliary Lighting for Off-Road and Work Use

For trail use or night work, auxiliary lighting is essential.

Useful Auxiliary Lights

A-pillar ditch lights
Bumper-mounted LED lights
Roof-mounted light bars
Rock lights for low-speed visibility
Rear-facing chase lights for dust and trailers

High-quality optics produce a clean beam and help avoid light scatter.

If your truck is set up for overlanding, you may be interested in the upgrade guide.

4. Wiring and Installation Quality Matters

Lighting upgrades require proper wiring and relays.

Professional Installation Benefits

Clean wiring looms
Correct fuse protection
Stable power delivery
Reduced fire risk
Factory-grade waterproofing

A clean install ensures your Ford truck’s electrical system runs safely and reliably.

5. Legal Considerations for St. Louis and Missouri Roads

Missouri law requires headlights to be properly aimed and DOT-compliant. Off-road lighting must remain off on public roads.

Road-Legal Tips

Use DOT-approved housings
Avoid unregulated LED bulbs
Install switches for off-road lights
Ensure fog lights are correctly aimed

Running lights improperly can result in tickets or unsafe glare.

Conclusion

Lighting upgrades transform the visibility and safety of Ford trucks throughout St. Louis. Whether you need trail lights for off-road routes or improved headlights for dark commutes, choosing the right components and installation ensures long-lasting reliability.

For more Ford upgrade information, review our guide.

Ford F-150, F-250 & F-350 Bed Covers and Bed Racks – Best Compatible Options for St. Louis Truck Owners

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

Many Ford truck owners want both a secure bed cover and the ability to run a functional bed rack for hauling gear, rooftop tents, bikes, recovery tools, and overlanding equipment. The challenge is that not all bed covers and bed racks work together, and choosing the wrong combination leads to interference, leaks, and wasted money.

This guide highlights the best bed covers, bed racks, and compatible systems for real-world use throughout St. Louis.

For more Ford upgrade resources, visit our upgrades guide.

1. Why Bed Cover Compatibility Matters

Tonneau covers vary in height, rail width, hinge design, and mounting methods. Many popular models block the ability to mount racks or accessories.

Common Problems From Incorrect Bed Cover Choice

Racks that can’t mount due to rail design
Covers that leak at the corners
Interference when opening or closing
Loss of bed space
Excessive wind noise

2. Best Bed Covers for Rack Compatibility

These bed covers work well with both low-profile and full-height bed rack systems.

Recommended Compatible Covers

Retractable covers with T-slot rails
Low-profile hard covers
Folding covers with perimeter-mounted rails
Aluminum covers supportive enough for crossbars

These options create a modular platform for additional gear.

If your truck is set up for off-road or camping gear, explore our guide.

3. Best Bed Rack Options for Ford Trucks

Ford F-150 and Super Duty platforms offer numerous bed rack systems designed for outdoor equipment, work tools, and full overlanding setups.

Popular Bed Rack Types

Mid-height racks for rooftop tents
Adjustable bed racks
Full-height utility racks
Bed-rail-mounted cargo systems

Choosing the correct rack ensures proper fitment with your chosen bed cover.

4. Ideal Bed Cover + Rack Combinations

Some setups are designed to work together from the start.

Proven Combinations

Retractable T-slot cover + modular rack
Low-profile hard cover + adjustable uprights
Folding cover + perimeter rack system

These provide security, weather protection, and strong gear-hauling capability.

5. Installation Quality Matters

Bed accessories require exact alignment to avoid leaks and interference.

Professional Installation Ensures

Clean mounting
Proper sealing
Rack alignment
Even load distribution
Rattle-free operation

This extends the life of both your bed cover and rack system.

Conclusion

Ford F-150 and Super Duty owners in St. Louis can run a secure bed cover and a functional bed rack as long as the system is chosen and installed correctly. A compatible combination gives you weather protection, storage flexibility, and the ability to haul camping gear or tools without compromise.

For a full overview of Ford truck upgrades, check out our guide.

Ford Truck Overlanding Upgrades in St. Louis – Build a Reliable, Adventure-Ready F-150 or Super Duty

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

Ford trucks have become some of the most popular platforms for overlanding in Missouri. Whether it's weekend trips through Mark Twain National Forest or long-distance travel across the Midwest, the F-150, F-250, and F-350 offer excellent payload, comfort, and off-road capability. The right upgrades make these trucks even more capable for self-supported travel.

This guide outlines the essential overlanding upgrades for Ford truck owners in St. Louis, from racks and storage to armor, lighting, power management, and recovery gear.

For more Ford upgrade categories, check out our upgrades guide.

1. Why Ford Trucks Excel at Overlanding

Ford trucks provide a strong foundation for overlanding due to:

Excellent payload ratings
Strong suspension platforms
Large bed space for gear
Reliable drivetrain options
Factory 4x4 systems suited for mixed terrain

But even the most capable trucks benefit from upgrades.

2. Bed Rack and Gear Storage Systems

Keeping gear organized and accessible is critical.

Recommended Storage Upgrades

Modular bed rack systems
Lockable cargo boxes
Sliding bed trays
Drawer systems for tools and recovery gear
Rooftop tent–compatible racks

Many truck owners combine storage with compatible bed covers. Click Here for more information.

3. Suspension Upgrades for Overlanding

Ford trucks benefit from suspension tuned for added weight.

Key Overland Suspension Components

Load-rated rear springs
Heavy-duty shocks
Air bags for towing and load management
Coilovers for improved front-end control

For details on lift options, check our guide.

4. Lighting Upgrades for Night Trails

Visibility is essential for night driving and campsite setup.

Best Overlanding Lighting Upgrades

Ditch lights for cornering
Hood-mounted scene lights
Rock lights for slow-speed terrain
Rear camp lights
Fog lights with wide beam patterns

More lighting options here.

5. Power Management for Accessories

Modern overlanding setups require power for refrigerators, lighting, radios, and tools.

Recommended Electrical Upgrades

Portable battery systems
On-board dual battery setups
Solar charging panels
Power distribution modules
Fuse-protected accessory wiring

High-quality wiring reduces electrical risk during long trips.

6. Recovery Gear and Safety Essentials

Being self-sufficient is part of the overlanding mindset.

Essential Recovery Tools

Soft shackles
Kinetic recovery rope
Traction boards
Tire repair kit
On-board air compressor
Recovery-rated tow points

These basics ensure safe travel in remote areas.

Conclusion

Ford F-150 and Super Duty trucks offer a rock-solid base for overlanding across Missouri and beyond. With the right upgrades for storage, suspension, lighting, and power, St. Louis owners can build reliable adventure-ready rigs suited for trails and long-distance exploration.

For additional Ford upgrade information, see our guide.

Common Ford Truck Upgrades Owners Regret – What to Avoid and What Works Better in St. Louis

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:10:30 GMT

Ford truck owners across St. Louis love modifying their F-150, F-250, and F-350 models. But not every upgrade pays off. Some mods cause ride issues, interfere with daily use, or don’t work well with Missouri weather and terrain. This guide highlights the most common Ford truck upgrades owners regret — and better alternatives that deliver reliable performance.

See our full overview of Ford-related upgrades.

1. Cheap Lighting Kits That Fail Quickly

Low-cost LED headlights and bars often fail when exposed to moisture and rough roads.

Common Issues

Water condensation
Poor beam patterns
Glare for oncoming traffic
Electrical flicker

Better Alternatives

DOT-approved LED headlight systems
High-quality fog light upgrades
Performance-grade auxiliary lighting

Learn more about lighting upgrades.

2. Oversized Lift Kits Without Supporting Components

Tall lift kits can look impressive, but cause steering and towing issues when not matched with necessary geometry components.

Common Problems

Harsh ride
Steering wander
Axle misalignment (Super Duty)
Reduced towing stability

Better Approach

Balanced 2–4 inch lift
Caster-correcting radius arms
Track bar upgrades
Matched shocks

Compare lift options here.

3. Huge Tires Without Regearing

Installing 35–37 inch tires without regearing is a common mistake.

Regrettable Symptoms

Sluggish acceleration
Constant downshifting
Poor fuel economy
Transmission strain

Better Solution

Regear to 4.10, 4.30, 4.56, or 4.88 depending on tire size

More info on regearing.

4. Universal Bed Racks That Don’t Fit Well

Universal racks often interfere with bed covers or don’t support the loads that Ford truck owners need.

Common Problems

Noise at highway speeds
Poor fitment
Rust-prone materials
Interference with bed covers

Better Approach

Modular Ford-specific bed rack systems
Compatible bed cover combinations
Weatherproof installation

Details on compatible bed cover combinations in our guide.

5. Overlanding Gear That Outweighs Actual Use

Some owners buy rooftop tents, full camp kitchens, and solar setups, but rarely use them.

Common Regrets

Added weight
Reduced MPG
Less bed space
Complicated setup

Better Strategy

Start with essential recovery tools
Add lighting and bed storage
Invest in tents or power systems when truly needed

More realistic overlanding upgrades here.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common upgrade mistakes keeps your Ford F-150 or Super Duty driving smoothly and safely around St. Louis. With the right components and a clear plan, your truck becomes more capable without sacrificing comfort or reliability.

For additional Ford truck upgrades , check out our guide.

Top RAM Truck Mods Owners Regret — And What to Do Instead

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:52:24 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

Let’s Get Honest: Regret Happens

We get it — building a RAM is half thrill, half impulse buys. You see that shiny mod on a buddy’s truck or a viral reel and think, “Yup, I need that too!”

Then reality hits: the new part rattles, ruins your ride, or turns your daily driver into a parking garage nightmare. At Axleboy Offroad , we’ve fixed more than a few regret-filled builds.

So here’s our no-nonsense list of the Top RAM mods people wish they hadn’t bought — and what actually works instead.

1️⃣ Giant Light Bars That See More Bugs Than Trails

Regret:

A 50-inch light bar looks tough but rarely gets used legally on the street. Worse, cheap bars fog up, flicker, and howl in the wind.

Better Move:

✅ Use high-quality fog lights, A-pillar pods, or low-profile spots from trusted brands like Baja Designs or Diode Dynamics.

✅ Properly aimed = more usable light with no tickets.

2️⃣ Monster Lift Kits (That Ruin Your Ride & Towing)

Regret:

That 8-inch lift towers over traffic — and sure, it helps fit those 37s — but unless it's done right, your ride becomes harsh, steering gets vague, and towing becomes a white-knuckle affair.

The Real Problem:

Big lifts on RAM trucks aren’t the issue by themselves — but skipping the supporting mods is. Most RAM trucks do need at least 6 inches of lift to run 37s, but that also means you need longer control arms, upgraded steering components, re-geared differentials, and tuned shocks to keep it safe and drivable.

Better Move:

✅ Go big only if your build supports it — tires, axles, steering, and brakes included.

✅ Don’t just slap in a spacer kit. Use a full suspension system with matched geometry.

✅ Add helper air bags or sway bars if you plan to tow.

✅ Get an alignment from a shop that understands lifted RAMs (we do).

3️⃣ Huge Tires Without Proper Gearing

Regret:

Sluggish off the line. Miles per gallon in the gutter. Transmission working overtime.

Better Move:

✅ Regear when you go big! We calculate the sweet spot for your engine, tire size, and towing needs so you regain torque and MPG.

4️⃣ Universal Racks & Bargain Toolboxes

Regret:

Racks that whistle at 65 MPH, toolboxes that leak or block your tonneau cover.

Better Move:

✅ Get a custom-fit bed rack that works with your cover.

✅ Choose weatherproof drawers and lockable boxes that don’t eat up usable space.

✅ Reinforce tie-down points so your gear stays put off-road.

5️⃣ Full Overlanding Setups (When You Rarely Camp)

Regret:

Rooftop tents, solar panels, swing-out kitchens — thousands spent for an Instagram vibe. But you sleep at KOA or a hotel.

Better Move:

✅ Build practical first: recovery kit, secure bed storage, real trail lighting.

✅ Add big-ticket camp gear once you actually use it more than twice a year.

Axleboy’s Rule: Build for Real Life, Not Just Likes

It’s easy to drop big bucks on trendy gear. But nothing’s worse than mods that fight each other, waste gas, or make your RAM miserable to drive.

At Axleboy Offroad , we help RAM owners upgrade smart:

One-on-one consults — we plan your build, step-by-step.
Top-tier parts — no bargain bin shortcuts.
Expert install & tuning — no rattles, no regrets.

Let’s Build a RAM You’ll Love Long-Term

Skip the hype. Get a rig that works on the trail, pulls your trailer straight, and rides smooth enough for everyday driving.

Request a RAM Truck Consultation at Axleboy Offroad >

How to Tow Safely With a Lifted RAM — Our Proven Setup

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:44:32 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

Lifting Changes Everything (Especially When You Tow)

A lift kit and big tires make your RAM look tough and clear bigger trails — but they also change how your truck handles heavy trailers, tall campers, or car haulers. Many RAM owners find out the hard way: that lifted stance can mean sway, squat, and sketchy handling when towing.

At Axleboy Offroad , we help RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 owners get back safe, stable towing after a lift — so you don’t have to choose between looking good and hauling heavy.

Why Lifts Can Ruin Safe Towing

When you lift your RAM, you:

Raise its center of gravity — more body roll and sway.
Change rear suspension geometry — more squat under tongue weight.
Often add softer or taller springs — great for trails, not always great for a trailer tongue.

The result? Your once-solid tow rig feels wobbly, struggles to stay level, and can stress brakes and steering.

How to Know If Your RAM’s Towing Isn’t Dialed In

Watch for these red flags:

Rear end squats noticeably under the trailer load.
Front end lifts up, making steering feel light and vague.
Trailer sway in crosswinds or passing semis.
Braking distance feels longer than before.
Frequent downshifting, transmission runs hotter.

✅ How Axleboy Fixes Lifted RAM Towing Issues

We see it every week: lifted trucks pulling boats, campers, or car haulers that feel downright scary at highway speeds. Here’s how we dial them in for safe, stable towing:

1️⃣ Add Helper Air Bags

Air bags are a game-changer for a lifted truck that still has to pull its weight. They:

Support extra tongue weight.
Keep your truck level front-to-back.
Reduce rear-end squat that messes up steering and headlights.

We install trusted kits like Firestone Ride-Rite or Air Lift LoadLifter — reliable and adjustable.

2️⃣ Upgrade Sway Bars

A stiffer rear sway bar helps control body roll and trailer sway. It works with your lift and air bags to keep your RAM planted in turns and crosswinds.

3️⃣ Dial in the Suspension

We match your rear springs to your real load. Sometimes we add progressive leaf packs or tune coilovers so you get lift height and towing strength.

4️⃣ Weight-Distribution Hitch Setup

A properly matched weight-distribution hitch balances the trailer load across all four tires. It reduces front-end lift and keeps your steering responsive.

We help you:

Pick the right hitch for your trailer.
Adjust it to match your lift.
Show you how to hook it up correctly every time.

5️⃣ Check Brakes & Cooling

More weight means more heat. We check your brake pads, rotors, and transmission cooler to handle real towing demands — especially important if you’ve upgraded tires that add rolling resistance.

Why RAM Owners Trust Axleboy

✔️ Real towing experience — not just lift kits.

✔️ Parts that work together — bags, bars, hitches, brakes.

✔️ Proper alignment for lifted trucks to keep steering tight.

✔️ Local St. Louis shop with honest, custom advice.

Tow Confidently — Even with a Lifted Rig

Your RAM should pull your boat, camper, or car hauler without drama — no sway, no squat, no white knuckles.

Request a RAM Truck Tow Setup Consultation at Axleboy Offroad >

Smart Bed Storage & Racks for RAM Trucks — No More Loose Gear

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:18:24 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

Tired of Your RAM’s Bed Being a Rolling Junk Drawer?

RAM trucks are built to haul — but open beds can turn into a mess fast: tools sliding around, gear soaked by rain, and racks that rattle all the way to the trailhead.

At Axleboy Offroad , we help RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 owners secure their tools, camping gear, overlanding setups, and work equipment — with storage solutions and bed racks that actually fit, work quietly, and stand up to real abuse.

Why Generic Racks & Boxes Cause Headaches

A lot of RAM owners grab universal racks and storage boxes from big box stores — and then regret it.

The usual complaints:

Racks that don’t line up with factory bed rails
Boxes that block tonneau covers or tailgates
Cheap hardware that rusts or rattles loose
Leaks that soak your expensive gear
Poor security — easy targets for thieves

How We Do Bed Storage the Right Way

Every RAM owner uses their bed differently. Some haul tools to a job site Monday to Friday, then camping gear to the Ozarks on Saturday. Others run rooftop tents or store recovery gear for the trails.

We tailor each setup to fit your real needs — not just what looks cool on Instagram.

Our Favorite Bed Storage Solutions for RAM Trucks

1️⃣ Secure Drawers & Slide-Outs

Keep tools, tie-downs, and recovery gear organized and dry. Options like Decked drawers or custom slide-outs maximize bed space and keep stuff locked up.

Benefits:

✔️ Weatherproof

✔️ Lockable

✔️ Easy to access heavy gear

2️⃣ Heavy-Duty Bed Racks

For rooftop tents, gas cans, recovery boards, and bikes — a rack is gold. But it has to fit your RAM’s bed rails and play nice with your tonneau cover if you want to keep your gear dry.

Our approach:

✔️ Recommend platform-specific racks (no drilling nightmare)

✔️ Integrate rack height for RTT clearance

✔️ Add tie-down points and cargo baskets for flexibility

3️⃣ Tool Boxes That Don’t Get in the Way

A good crossover toolbox adds secure storage without eating all your bed space. We help pick ones that:

Seal tight
Don’t interfere with bed covers
Mount cleanly with hidden hardware

4️⃣ Bed Stiffeners & Tie-Down Points

If you haul heavy gear or offroad a lot, your RAM’s bed walls can flex over time. We reinforce weak spots and add tie-down points that can actually handle a real load.

Why Axleboy’s Storage Installs Beat DIY

Sure, you can install a rack and drawers yourself — but we see the aftermath all the time: crooked mounts, missing seals, rattles that drive you nuts.

At Axleboy, you get:

✔️ Clean, rattle-free installs

✔️ Custom-fit solutions for your bed size and needs

✔️ Guidance on which gear holds up best in Missouri’s weather

✔️ Local support if you ever need adjustments

Real RAM, Real Life — Built to Work

Whether you’re a contractor, a weekend camper, or an overlanding junkie, your bed should be as capable as your truck. We help you get it organized, secure, and trail-tested.

Ready to Upgrade Your RAM’s Bed?

Stop chasing gear rolling around in the dark. Let’s build a storage and rack setup that’s strong, quiet, and ready for whatever you throw at it.

Request a RAM Truck Bed Storage & Racks Consultation at Axleboy Offroad >

Lighting Upgrades for RAM Trucks — Done Right (No Tickets, No Glare)

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 15:24:28 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

RAM Stock Lights Leave a Lot to Be Desired

Let’s be honest: stock halogen headlights on many RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 models just don’t cut it on dark Missouri backroads - or during bad weather. That’s why so many RAM owners upgrade to LED or HID kits, extra fogs, or trail lights.

Unfortunately, a lot of DIY RAM lighting upgrades create more problems than they solve : blinding glare, scattered beams, flicker, or worse — a failed inspection or police ticket.

At Axleboy Offroad, we install clean, legal, and effective lighting that lets you see more road and less trouble.

The Big Problem with Cheap Light Kits

Sure, you can grab a $40 “plug and play” LED kit online — but here’s what usually happens:

�� Blinding Glare: Poorly aimed bulbs scatter light into oncoming traffic.

�� Dark Spots: Cheap bulbs often have worse beam patterns than stock.

�� Flicker & Warning Lights: RAM trucks have sensitive CANBUS systems — wrong bulbs trigger dash errors or flickering.

�� Failed Inspections: Many retrofits aren’t DOT-approved for road use.

How to Upgrade RAM Lighting the Smart Way

We don’t just toss in new bulbs and call it a day. Here’s how we do lighting right at Axleboy:

1️⃣ Use DOT-Approved Kits

We pick proven LED or HID conversion kits designed to fit your RAM’s specific projector or reflector housing — no guesswork.

Brands we trust:

Diode Dynamics
Baja Designs (for auxiliary)

These provide a clean cut-off line, bright white color, and legal output.

2️⃣ Correct Aiming & Pattern

It’s not just about brightness — it’s about where the light goes. We adjust and aim your headlights properly so you get maximum road illumination without blinding other drivers.

3️⃣ Upgrade Fog Lights & Auxiliary Lighting

Good fogs cut through rain and snow better than high beams. We install:

High-output LED fogs
A-pillar spotlights for trail work
Rock lights for crawling at night

All wired with weatherproof harnesses and switches that won’t fail on you.

4️⃣ CANBUS & Wiring Done Right

RAM’s electrical system is picky. We use harnesses, resistors, or relay kits as needed so you don’t get:

Flickering bulbs
Error messages on the dash
Drained batteries from power backfeed

What You’ll Love About an Axleboy Lighting Upgrade

✔️ Brighter, safer night driving — see deer & obstacles sooner.

✔️ No tickets or failed inspections — 100% street-legal setups.

✔️ No flicker, dash errors, or surprise battery drains.

✔️ Clean switches & relays — installed so your interior stays neat.

Ready to See the Road Clearly?

Better lights are more than a cool look — they’re safety. Let’s upgrade your RAM’s lighting so you can tackle night trails, rural roads, or foggy mornings with total confidence.

Request a RAM Truck Lighting Upgrades Consultation at Axleboy Offroad >

The Smart Way to Regear Your RAM for Bigger Tires

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 13:13:58 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

Big Tires, Big Problems (If You Skip the Gears)

If you’ve thrown 35s, 37s — or even bigger tires — on your RAM 1500, 2500, or 3500, you know the feeling: your truck looks killer, but suddenly it drives like it’s pulling an anchor.

Sluggish acceleration, constant downshifting, worse gas mileage — sound familiar? That’s because your stock differential gear ratio can’t keep up with the new tire size.

At Axleboy Offroad, we help RAM owners get that lost power back, the right way: precision differential re-gearing.

Why Bigger Tires Kill Performance:

Your RAM’s axles house differentials — gear sets that translate driveshaft power out to your wheels. Bigger tires change your final drive ratio. It’s like pedaling a bike in the wrong gear: you’re working way harder to go the same speed.

When your factory differential gears are too “tall” for the new tire size, your engine strains more, your transmission hunts for gears, and towing feels gutless.

Common signs your gearing is too tall:

Sluggish take-off
Downshifts on mild hills
Poor towing torque
Dropped 2–4 mpg
Transmission runs hotter, shortening its life

How to Pick the Right Gear Ratio

The perfect gear ratio depends on:

Your tire size
Your engine (Hemi, Cummins, etc.)
How you drive (daily, highway, towing, off-road)

Example:

If your RAM came with 3.55 gears and you upgraded from stock 32s to 37s — you might now be better off with 4.10s or 4.56s to bring your RPMs back in line.

Too high = weak torque.

Too low = screaming RPMs.

Just right = power AND MPG balanced.

Remember: We’re talking about the ring and pinion gears inside your front and rear differentials — not your transmission. Getting this ratio right makes your truck feel like it should again.

Why DIY Math Doesn’t Cut It

Online calculators are good guidelines. But we’ve seen plenty of RAM owners regret a regear because they picked the wrong ratio — too conservative or too aggressive.

At Axleboy, we calculate based on:

True tire measurements (mounted size, not just the number on the sidewall)
Your actual daily driving vs. towing vs. trails
Engine torque curves
RPM sweet spots for your transmission

It’s not just a number — it’s about restoring performance where it matters.

How We Regear RAM Trucks

1️⃣ Full Consultation

We chat about how you use your truck and where you feel it’s underpowered.

2️⃣ Ratio Match

We run the numbers — no guesswork. You’ll see recommended gear ratios for your differentials, and what each one means for power, towing, and fuel economy.

3️⃣ Quality Parts

We use trusted differential gear sets from Yukon, Revolution, or OEM-matched brands. Cheap gears lead to noise and premature wear.

4️⃣ Professional Install

Regearing is precision work: backlash, preload, and gear pattern checks — all dialed in to factory specs. We service both front and rear axles.

5️⃣ Break-In & Road Test

We ensure your new gears run quiet and smooth, and advise on proper break-in to protect your investment.

Benefits of a Proper Regear

Stronger launch off the line
Better towing power
Less strain on transmission
Restored fuel economy (or at least prevent massive loss)
Bring back the fun you lost with big tires!

Why RAM Owners Choose Axleboy

✔️ We’ve re-geared hundreds of RAMs — no rookie mistakes
✔️ Real consultation, not guesswork
✔️ Quality differential parts, proven install methods
✔️ Local St. Louis shop, honest advice

Stop Driving a Dog — Regain Your Power

Big tires shouldn’t mean big headaches. Let’s match your RAM’s differential gears to your setup so you can haul, tow, and enjoy the drive again.

Request a RAM Truck Regearing Consultation at Axleboy Offroad >

How to Fix Sloppy Steering in Your RAM Truck — Regain Control & Confidence

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 17:30:13 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

Big Tires & Lifts = Big Stress on Your Steering

Lifting your RAM and adding larger tires looks great and helps off-road — but it also puts a lot more strain on your truck’s steering system. Over time, stock steering parts can flex, wear out, and make your RAM feel sloppy and tiring to drive.

Common signs of stressed steering include:

Wandering or drifting on the highway
Constant corrections to keep it straight
Loose feeling in the wheel
Fatigue on long drives

At Axleboy Offroad , we help RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 owners fix vague, worn-out steering so they can drive with confidence again.

Why RAM Steering Gets Loose?

Here’s what happens behind the wheel:

✅ Bigger tires = more weight & leverage on tie rods and drag links

✅ Lifts can throw off steering angles if not adjusted properly

✅ Stock steering boxes can flex under load

✅ Worn bushings and stabilizers lose their ability to dampen road feedback

It adds up to steering that feels disconnected — and can even accelerate wear on other suspension parts.

How Axleboy Fixes RAM Truck Steering Issues

We don’t just throw a quick stabilizer on and call it good. We inspect your entire steering system and strengthen the weak spots the right way:

1️⃣ Install Steering Box Braces:
These braces reinforce the steering box mounting point, reducing flex and play in the wheel — especially important on lifted trucks with big tires.

2️⃣ Upgrade Tie Rods & Drag Links:
We swap out lightweight factory tie rods for heavy-duty, larger-diameter versions that handle oversized tires without bending.

3️⃣ Precision Alignment & Caster Correction:
After upgrades, we align everything to proper specs for highway stability. We also adjust caster angle so your RAM tracks straight without constant corrections.

4️⃣ Add or Upgrade Steering Stabilizers:

A high-quality stabilizer reduces shimmy, absorbs bumps, and keeps your RAM tracking straight, especially with larger tires and off-road suspension setups.

5️⃣ Replace Worn Ball Joints:
Ball joints are a common wear point in RAM trucks — especially on lifted setups or those running larger tires. If they’re loose or failing, they can cause steering clunk, uneven tire wear, and even contribute to death wobble. We replace them with heavy-duty, high-angle joints that are built to last.

A quality stabilizer (or dual stabilizers for really big tires) keeps your steering smooth, reduces kickback, and protects tie rods and ball joints from harsh impacts.

Why RAM Owners Choose Axleboy for Steering Work

✔️ We specialize in RAM steering upgrades — from daily drivers to serious off-road rigs.

✔️ We use proven parts from brands we trust — no cheap knockoffs that wear out fast.

✔️ Every fix is tailored to your truck’s tire size, lift height, and how you really drive.

✔️ Precision alignment included with every steering upgrade.

Drive with Confidence Again

Steering shouldn’t feel like a workout. Let’s dial in your RAM’s steering so you stay in control, mile after mile — on the highway or the trail.

Request a RAM Truck Steering Fixes Consultation at Axleboy Offroad >

Why Your Lifted RAM Rides Terrible — And How We Fix It

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 18:27:11 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

Does Your Lifted RAM Feel Like a Bucking Bronco?

A lift kit should make your RAM look tougher and perform better off-road — but too often, owners find their shiny new lift just turns daily driving into a rough, shaky, bone-jarring mess.

If your RAM feels stiff, bouncy, or nose-dives when towing or braking, you’re not alone. At Axleboy Offroad , we help RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 owners fix poorly tuned suspensions every week — and we’ll break down exactly why it happens and what it takes to fix it for good.

Why Do Lifted RAM Trucks Ride So Rough?

Most of the time, a bad ride comes down to poorly matched parts — not the fact that your truck is lifted.

The usual culprits::

✅ Cheap lift kits with generic spring rates
✅ Low-quality shocks that can’t keep up
✅ Wrong coil or leaf spring choices for your actual weight
✅ No helper bags or bump stops for heavy loads
✅ Bad alignment or geometry after the lift

Common Signs Your Lift Is the Problem

How do you know your lift kit is ruining your ride? Look for these red flags:

Stiff ride that jolts over every bump
“Porpoising” — front end bounces up and down at highway speeds
Rear end squats or sags when you tow
Premature shock wear or leaking
Uneven tire wear, poor handling, or wandering

How Axleboy Fixes Lifted RAM Ride Quality

At Axleboy Offroad, we don’t just sell lift kits — we tune suspensions for real-world performance. Here’s how we turn a harsh-riding RAM into a smooth, controlled truck you’ll love driving again:

✅ 1. Inspect Your Current Setup

We check:

Spring rates and condition
Shocks for leaks, fade, or wrong length
Bump stops and limit straps
Sway bars and bushings
Alignment angles — caster, camber, toe

We also weigh your truck! Most “one size fits all” lifts don’t account for tool boxes, winches, campers, or trailers — which all affect ride and sag.

✅ 2. Choose the Right Springs & Shocks

If your springs are too stiff, we swap them for ones that match your actual load. If they’re too soft, we prevent bottoming out by upgrading spring rate or adding helper airbags.

Shocks make a HUGE difference — we install premium brands like:

Readylift
BDS Suspension
Fox Suspension

These absorb hits, resist fade, and control bounce.

✅ 3. Tune for Towing & Payload

Got a trailer, camper, or heavy gear? We match your suspension to handle it:

Add airbags or progressive bump stops to prevent squat
Install sway bars for extra stability
Upgrade leaf packs or coilovers if needed

✅ 4. Align & Road Test

We realign your RAM to factory specs — or adjust caster to reduce wandering and harshness on lifted trucks. Finally, we test-drive to fine-tune everything so you get the plushest possible ride.

Why RAM Owners Choose Axleboy

✔️ Suspension specialists, not just parts sellers
✔️ Custom solutions — not cookie-cutter lifts
✔️ Top-quality parts you won’t find at the big-box store
✔️ Precision installs and local, honest support

Don’t Hate Your Lifted Truck — Fix It Today!

A rough ride isn’t normal — and it can be fixed. Let’s make your RAM feel strong, stable, and smooth again so you can enjoy the miles ahead.

Request a RAM Truck Lifted Consultation at Axleboy Offroad >

Choosing the Right Rooftop Tent for Your Next Overlanding Trip From St. Louis

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:51:43 GMT

The Ultimate St. Louis Guide to Picking the Best Rooftop Tent

A rooftop tent is more than camping gear—it’s your mobile cabin, storm shelter, and sunrise lookout all in one. For overlanders rolling out of St. Louis every weekend, the choice is clear: Axleboy Offroad rooftop tents featuring the award-winning iKamper Skycamp 2.0 and 3.0 are the only rooftop tents trusted to handle Midwest weather, heavy use, and daily driving without turning your rig into a sloppy, leaky headache.

These aren’t gimmick tents. They’re lab-tested, field-proven shelters that match perfectly with the real-world roads, forests, and wild Missouri weather. This guide covers why iKamper Skycamp tents beat every other style for local trips, how Axleboy fits them properly, and what every St. Louis explorer should know before bolting one on.

Why the iKamper Skycamp Stands Alone for St. Louis Overlanders

St. Louis weather doesn’t care if your rooftop tent looks fancy on social media. Spring rains, heavy winds, and surprise ice storms will expose a weak design fast. That’s why Axleboy Offroad installs only iKamper Skycamp 2.0 and 3.0 rooftop tents—nothing else meets the shop’s standards for guaranteed performance.

These hard shell tents pack big benefits into a surprisingly compact shell:

Setup in under 60 seconds – No wrestling with poles at dusk.
King-size mattress comfort – Sleep well above wet, buggy ground.
Aluminum honeycomb floor – Holds up to 900 lbs without flexing.
Rugged clamshell design – Slices wind drag on I-70 and seals out Midwest storms.
Quality materials – Waterproof fabric, rust-proof hardware, triple-layer insulation for cooler nights.

Locals choosing an iKamper get a proven shelter that handles daily driving around Kirkwood just as easily as an overnight at Hawn State Park. It’s not an “all brands welcome” approach—Axleboy backs only the tents that earn it, no compromises.

Hard Shell Design Means Real Comfort and Easy Travel

Many St. Louis drivers new to rooftop camping think all RTTs work the same. They don’t. Soft shells can flap, leak, and wear out under Missouri’s constant rain and seasonal extremes.

The Skycamp 2.0 and 3.0 are engineered as true hard shell rooftop tents, built to last for years of heavy trips and fast highway runs. The clamshell lid stays tight against wind noise and keeps the tent compact when not in use. No drag, no extra sway, and no big box hanging off your roof like a sail.

Inside, the Skycamp layout matters more than Instagram shots:

A king-size memory foam mattress rolls out over an extendable floor, so two adults and a child sleep comfortably.
Large side windows and a sky view let in fresh air while mosquito-proof mesh keeps Missouri’s insects out.
The ladder is rock solid and adjustable for rigs from a lifted Tacoma to a stock Bronco.

This isn’t just camping—it’s the closest thing to an elevated hotel suite on wheels that a St. Louis adventurer can get without towing a trailer.

Proper Fitment Protects Your Truck, Fuel, and Sleep

Adding a rooftop tent is like adding another passenger. It changes weight balance, fuel use, and roof rack stress. Many owners rush install jobs at home or let big box stores bolt a tent on generic crossbars. That’s a shortcut that costs more later when leaks, squeaks, and broken mounts appear.

Axleboy’s method is different:

Checks rack strength and placement before install.
Uses factory torque specs so bolts don’t loosen over washboard trails.
Aligns the tent to avoid drag and uneven tire wear.
Test-drives after mounting to check wind noise and structural stability.

Most importantly, every install is covered by a 12-month/12,000-mile labor warranty—a promise almost no online tent reseller offers. And if anything rattles or shifts after that first big trail trip out past Cuivre River, the Axleboy crew fixes it right, no extra excuses.

When considering rooftop camping, St. Louis locals find Axleboy in local searches for “overlanding near me” because they solve problems before they start.

What to Know Before Adding a Skycamp to a Daily Driver

A rooftop tent sounds great until someone ignores reality: weight ratings matter. A Skycamp 2.0 weighs around 150 lbs—light for a hard shell, but still something your truck or SUV needs to carry safely.

The Axleboy team checks:

Roof load limits (dynamic and static)
Rack specs (some factory racks can’t handle RTT stress long-term)
Bed rail or crossbar compatibility
Ladder angle for lifted rigs

They also discuss how a tent affects fuel economy and wind drag. An iKamper’s sleek design reduces these impacts compared to floppy soft shells, but owners should still plan a few less MPG on highway hauls out to Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

These details separate a fun trip from a frustrating one. Many St. Louis overlanders learn this the hard way—Axleboy customers skip the headaches.

St. Louis Locals Pick Axleboy for Rooftop Tent Installs

Choosing a rooftop tent is one part gear, three parts expertise. The gear—an iKamper Skycamp 2.0 or 3.0—is locked in as the best. The difference is how it’s mounted and supported.

Axleboy Offroad stands apart because the crew uses dealer-level tools and backwoods-level experience. They live this life: hunting, fishing, hiking, and off-roading in the same places customers do. They know what Missouri’s weather does to cheap seals and bad hardware.

Every install is custom-matched to the vehicle:

4Runner rooftop tents with rack spacers to keep roof lines clean
Jeep Wrangler tents mounted with low-profile brackets for tight trails
Ford F-150 setups balanced to protect tailgate and roof strength
Chevy Colorado and RAM 1500 mounts with easy ladder positioning

Drivers searching “rooftop tent near me in St. Louis” find real local expertise, not just an e-commerce site. And repeat customers love knowing one crew handles it all—tent, racks, maintenance—under one roof.

See why so many neighbors trust Axleboy Offroad before heading out to Missouri’s wild spaces.

Why iKamper Skycamp 2.0 and 3.0 Beat Every Alternative

St. Louis overlanders get serious about weatherproofing. Heavy spring rain at night can soak a cheap tent. Freezing winds whip through budget zippers. An iKamper Skycamp solves this: thick fabric, double stitching, tight seals, and high-grade metal parts that won’t rust after one wet winter.

Inside, Skycamp’s premium foam mattress puts inflatable camping pads to shame. Families love that the extended floor means kids or dogs have space to stretch. The window awnings open up fresh airflow even during rain—huge for muggy Missouri summer nights.

Axleboy only trusts Skycamp because the shop tested other brands on local trails for years. They failed—Skycamp didn’t. That’s why they stand behind it with a performance guarantee.

About Axleboy Offroad

Axleboy Offroad is St. Louis’ trusted shop for custom rooftop tents, lift kits, and serious offroad upgrades. From local daily drivers to overlanding rigs ready for Ozark adventures, Axleboy builds vehicles that drive better than stock and survive real trails. Factory-trained mechanics, dealer-level tools, and honest advice make sure every upgrade works right the first time. Every install is backed by a 12-month/12,000-mile labor warranty, so customers get peace of mind from garage to backcountry and back again.

How to Fix Death Wobble in a RAM 2500 or 3500 — For Good

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:29:20 GMT

< All Ram Upgrades

What is Death Wobble?

If you’ve ever felt your RAM’s steering wheel shake so violently that it feels like the truck might tear itself apart — congratulations, you’ve met Death Wobble .

It’s more common than you think in solid front axle RAM 2500 and 3500 trucks, especially if you’ve added a lift kit, bigger tires, or rack up lots of highway miles. Once it starts, it can make your truck feel downright unsafe and nearly impossible to steer until you come to a full stop.

Note: Death wobble is mainly an issue on solid axle RAM trucks — that means the RAM 2500 and 3500. If you own a RAM 1500, you might have steering vibration or wheel shake, but you won’t get true death wobble because the 1500 uses an independent front suspension (IFS)

At Axleboy Offroad , we’ve fixed more RAM Death Wobble cases than we can count — and we’re here to break down what causes it and how to fix it right the first time.

Why Do RAM Trucks Get Death Wobble?

Death Wobble happens when worn or weak front-end parts can’t keep your axle centered and your steering tight at speed. A bump or pothole sets off the wobble — and loose parts amplify it.

Top Causes in RAM Trucks:

✅ Worn track bar bushings or brackets
✅ Loose or worn tie rods, drag links, or ball joints
✅ Weak or failing steering stabilizer
✅ Improper caster angle after a lift kit
✅ Out-of-spec alignment

�� Signs You Might Have Death Wobble Coming

Don’t wait until your truck shakes like a shopping cart — look for these warning signs:

Loose steering feel: More play than normal in the wheel
Vibration at highway speeds: Subtle at first, violent later
Uneven tire wear: Feathering or cupping on front tires
Knocking sounds: When hitting bumps or turning

�� How We Fix RAM Death Wobble at Axleboy

Every RAM is a little different, so there’s no single magic part that fixes Death Wobble forever. Instead, we take a full-system approach:

✅ 1. Inspect & Diagnose

We put your truck on the lift and check:

Track bar bushings and mounts for wear
Tie rod and drag link ends for slop
Ball joints for play
Steering stabilizer for leaks or damage
Caster angle and alignment specs

This pinpoints exactly what’s loose or worn.

✅ 2. Upgrade Weak Links

We don’t patch problems — we solve them for good. Depending on what we find, we’ll recommend:

Heavy-duty track bar (with stronger bushings or heim joints)
Upgraded tie rods and drag links — beefier than stock
Premium ball joints (Carli, Synergy, Dynatrac — parts we trust)
Dual or high-performance steering stabilizers
Steering box braces for extra rigidity

✅ 3. Align & Road Test

Once the hardware is solid, we do a precision alignment — not a quickie toe-and-go. Correct caster angle is crucial on a lifted RAM. We dial it in for stability at highway speeds and smooth handling on trails.

Finally, we road-test your truck to make sure it drives straight, tracks true, and won’t shake apart on your next trip down I-70.

Why Axleboy Offroad Gets It Right

Some shops just throw parts at Death Wobble. We don’t. We find the root cause, fix it properly, and back our work. It’s how we keep RAM owners in St. Louis and beyond rolling safe and worry-free.

Ready to Say Goodbye to Death Wobble?

If your RAM has Death Wobble — or you feel it starting — don’t wait for it to get worse. Let’s get it dialed in right, the first time.

Request a Death Wobble Inspection at Axleboy Offroad >

Axleboy Custom Jeep Gladiator: TeraFlex Control Arms and Falcon Shocks

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 20:55:46 GMT

So we're back inside at Axleboy Offroad. We've got our 2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport S. This is still bone stock. I haven't made any modifications to it yet. We have ordered and been receiving a lot of the components from our supplier partner. They're going to end up on this Jeep Gladiator. One thing that's going to be probably the most dramatic cosmetically and performance and everything else from the outside, is the lift kit, and the wheels, and the suspension.

Yeah.

So right now behind us is bone stock. Let's talk about suspension first. Why don't you tell us what we have here from TeraFlex?

Sure. So from TeraFlex, we're doing the adjustable alpine IR arms. IR stands for independent rotation. Now this is a really new product and it's amazing in the fact that it uses the bushing, so we're going to retain the same sound dampening and the same ride quality as we would when we're stock. But the inner sleeve that the bolt actually goes on... Okay. This is actually on a bearing. Okay. And it's a sealed bearing and unlike standard bushings where once the bolt clamps down, it's captive in the rubber and the rubber has to flex in order for this arm to move through its travel. The independent rotation allows free movement, no binding whatsoever, and this is huge in terms of ride quality, in terms of flex when you're off road or when you're on the RTI ramp at a Jeep show, or whatever it may be.

We get the best of both worlds. We get the reliability of a good rubber bushing. We get the flexibility of a flex joint, but we don't have the parts that wear out or they get loose and make noise like the flex joints do. So it's kind of the best of both worlds. We expect that these bushings are going to last the vehicle's lifetime. This is a new product, this independent rotation bushing, been in testing and development for quite a while. We expect these to do amazing.

What does installing an adjustable control arm do? What's the benefit for me as the Gladiator?

Yeah, that's a great question. So we're going to lift it and we're going to raise the suspension. And the way that the geometry works, as we raise, this control arm is going to drop down further away. Now if you notice when this control arm swings down, it moves back. We actually lose some wheelbase when we lift it and it's just the nature of basic geometry. There's nothing we can do about that unless we put in an adjustable control arm. In this case, we can extend the length of this. We can recover our wheelbase, we can recover our alignment angles and our pinion angles as needed. So this gives us the ability to affectively adjust the front axle forward and backward.

So we can make sure that the front axle is exactly where we want it.

Exactly where we want it with the correct angle and the correct rotation. This is going to make the vehicle drive amazing. We're going to be able to keep caster where we want it, which is important because as we lift it caster drops out. Caster is the alignment angle that gives us stability going down the highway. We can roll it back in.

Terrific. What else do we have here from TeraFlex?

Well, we also have the new Falcon series three shocks. These are the brand new SP two shocks. Now I know in the past you and I have talked about how nice the Falcon shocks are because we have the quick adjust knobs. So we can turn this knob and we can go from soft ride to firm ride or tow, or if you're particularly picky like I know you are, you can go into setting number two, which gives you micro adjust on the small knob. You can literally dial in the ride as you drive. Now the SP two adds a new feature to it. Okay? It allows us to control the dampening, so this isn't as quick adjust or as easy, but what we can do, if you come in and say, "Dude, I am going to run down a gravel road and I'm going to run this thing hard."

You can take the shock off and you can twist it, turn the bottom, and it goes into performance mode. Now this isn't going to be something you're changing in and out of every day. It's something you're probably going to do on install, but it gives you the ability to take the entire shock range and move it to more of a performance setting or to move it more to a comfort setting. Okay. So it just adds one more layer of adjustability to these shocks. These shocks are made up in Utah at the TeraFlex plant in the Falcon plant, handmade up there. Everything is amazing. We've been up on this line. It's the most spotless incredible thing you've ever seen. They've put a lot of time and development into this and these are definitely the best riding shock out there for the JK, and JL, and Gladiators.

And it's going to look really cool.

Oh yeah. How do you go wrong with all the big, all the billet, all the anodizing, the badging? They cut no corners on this thing at all.

So I'm going to guess we've got a front and a back.

Yeah. Yeah. So this will be the back. And so the importance with the back is... So it's a gladiator, right? So we're probably going to load it up with stuff, right? I mean, bicycles, kayaks, tent. So we're going to be taking weight in and out of it all the time. And that's really where the quick adjust knob is going to come in for us. So as you add that weight, all your shock dampening needs to change. It's easy now. Reach in there through the wheel-well, make a flip, and go.

Going down the road or as a daily driver, what setting would I want to put it on?

Well, I'll let you have it as far as a personal preference, but I know when I'm going down the road, just genuinely driving down the highway, I like a softer setting. I don't need to really feel the road. When we go to the firm settings, you're going to feel more input from the road. Now that's going to be great in certain situations. So if you're particularly driving sporty or driving heavy, you're going to want to have that road feel where you can feel the bumps and know what the vehicle is doing. With that, we're going to get a lot of roll control. So the vehicle is going to corner better and it will be able to handle the washboard gravel roads. Because I know like when you're out camping, you're driving down the-

Gravel road.

Yeah, yeah. You know how it is. You hit the bump and you bounce off the road, not with these, you move it to a firm setting and yeah, it's going to feel like you're zipping across the desert in a Baja race there. So really good stuff. Very adjustable, tunable to how you want it. So typically when you're off road or you're driving in let's say a spirited fashion, if you will, we're going to put them on firm.

That's great. Well, thanks a lot to TeraFlex and to Axleboy Offroad. To learn more, you go to teraflex.com or visit us at axleboy.com.

Which Vehicle Best Fits My Offroading Needs?

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 16:40:00 GMT

Offroading is an incredible hobby and lifestyle for those who love challenging themselves and being outdoors. There are offroad community groups all across the globe, with opportunities for events, meet-ups, trips, and more. However, one thing that can stop people interested in offroading from jumping right in is not knowing where to start with an offroad vehicle. If you’ve been itching to get out on the trails but aren’t sure what type of vehicle you need or how you need to modify a current vehicle, we are here to help. If you’re a veteran offroader, brushing up on the basics never hurts.

High Ground Clearance

No matter what type of offroading you are interested in or where you plan to go, your ground clearance is one of the first considerations for your vehicle (beyond having four-wheel drive, of course). A vehicle’s ground clearance is the distance between the ground and the bottom of the car’s body. An integral part of offroading is the obstacles on the ground – bushes, rocks, branches; you name it. When your vehicle has high ground clearance, you’ll be able to navigate through those obstacles easier. Many folks opt for a suspension lift kit to get higher ground clearance for their vehicle.

Suspension

Another important aspect of a vehicle equipped for offroading is quality suspension. Any time you drive a car, you want good suspension since this gives your tires adequate friction. In offroading vehicles, the quality suspension is even more necessary to keep you on the trails.

Locking Differential

Your wheels will be in a variety of positions when you are offroad. Locking differentials allow the axles to lock together so that the wheel with traction gets all the available torque. When you turn the vehicle, the looking differential allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds. In situations where one wheel is off the ground, this is crucial to maneuvering on the trail. There are many options for locking differentials to fit the needs of any offroader.

Tires

While high ground clearance, suspension, and locking differential are all critical for an offroad vehicle, these modifications are nothing without the right tires. Most offroad tires will be an investment and unsuitable for a regular commute. Your offroad tires will keep you safe on the trails and improve your experience. Offroad tires should have high grip and stability, perform well in dry and wet conditions, and have good cut resistance. If you’re new to offroading, you’ll want to consult an expert before choosing a tire.

Where You’ll Go

As you choose a vehicle, outfit it, and consider modifications, you’ll want to know where you want to go offroading. As you build up skill and experience, you can try more challenging trails and new terrains. The following are common offroading situations you may be interested in.

Rock Crawling

Rock crawling is one of the toughest, most extreme offroading situations. The driver takes their vehicle through rocky conditions, often boulders. If you plan on attempting rock crawling, you’ll want to have high ground clearance, locking rear differential, another person standing outside the vehicle to spot you, and a front-mounted winch that can connect to another vehicle or object to pull your vehicle out should you get stuck.

Overlanding

Overlanding is a different experience than offroading. Overlanding is about the journey, taking a trip to scenic locations and often camping in uncrowded, remote areas. Your vehicle should still have four-wheel drive and be able to plow through loose rock and dirt as you need for offroading trails. However, you’re more likely to carry extra gear and weight if you plan on camping, so having strong shock absorbers helps to handle the weight.

Adding Mods

When it comes to modifying your vehicle, it is critical that you not only add the proper modifications but also use a high-quality brand and have an expert mechanic install them. You can buy a used offroad vehicle with modifications installed, but it is essential to know where the work was done and how long ago. More commonly, offroaders will buy a new or used vehicle without modifications and then plan their own add-ons to fit their needs.

Research Everything

In the end, research is everything in the offroad world. Always research, watch videos, and check with the experts before buying a vehicle, modifying a vehicle, or planning an offroad outing. The offroad community in the U.S. is very active, and many people are willing to lend a hand in sharing advice on getting started. You should also research shops and community groups in your area. Even if you prefer to ride solo, getting connected with a network of people with similar interests will help in the long run.

Axleboy Offroad Is Here to Help

Whether you’re new to offroading or a veteran, our team at Axleboy Offroad has something for you. When we’re not modifying our customer’s vehicles or selling equipment, we get involved in offroading community events or out on the trails ourselves. Whatever offroading or overlanding trips you’re planning for 2023, get in touch with us so we can help you prepare for your adventures.

The post Which Vehicle Best Fits My Offroading Needs? appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Offroading and Overlanding Adventures for 2023

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 19:59:00 GMT

A new year brings new possibilities for travel and adventures in your Jeep or 4×4. Whether you’re new to the offroading lifestyle or a veteran, looking for new places to explore in your vehicle can help you plan for the year. One of the great parts of the offroading lifestyle is the community that comes with it – people who want to get others involved, offer advice, and even take trips together. Let’s look at the difference between offroading and overlanding, talk through gear, and inspire some potential adventures for 2023.

Overlanding vs. Offroading

Offroading and overlanding are two terms you might hear from Jeep and 4×4 owners, but do you know the difference ? Offroading is about taking your vehicle over challenging terrain and building up driving techniques to accomplish this. Overlanding focuses more on the journey of going somewhere in your vehicle. Although some people will go off-road during an overlanding trip, most stick to more accessible roads and trails for overlanding excursions. Overlanding may be an excellent start for someone new to the Jeep or 4×4 lifestyle –offroading may take longer to learn but can quickly become a thrilling hobby.

Equipment and Gear

The gear and equipment needed for overlanding versus offroading are also different. For overlanding, many folks like to get a rooftop tent for their vehicle to camp in throughout their trip. For people going offroading, a rooftop tent would add extra weight to the vehicle that could interfere with the offroading abilities, so they may not want that on their vehicle. Offroading gear, equipment, and vehicle modifications cover many items depending on your vehicle and goals for offroading.

Forests

Forested areas can make for great offroading experiences. Some forests even have designated trails or courses for offroading: the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri has miles of trails available for offroaders. Some other forested areas in Missouri that might interest offroaders are Saint Joe State Park, Finger Lakes State Park, and Blue Springs Ranch. Many national forests do not allow offroading or overlanding, so it is essential to research ahead of time. Sometimes, areas outside the national forests may have the same ecosystem and allow offroading.

Beaches and Dunes

If forests aren’t your thing and you prefer sandy areas, you’re in luck for offroading and overlanding. Dunes are sought-out destinations for offroaders and adventure seekers alike – the Silver Lake Sand Dunes in Mears, Michigan, and the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Mosca, Colorado, are two popular choices. For both of these areas, it is critical to check the requirements for your vehicle and if a permit is needed. Beaches can be excellent for overlanding excursions with scenic views and waves rolling in.

Mountains

Mountainous areas are worth checking out if you’re up for more challenging offroading courses. Driving in these terrains take grit and preparation, but the breathtaking views and wildlife make it worth it. The Alpine Loop Trail in Colorado traverses the San Juan Mountains and offers 63 miles of challenging fun. If you’re looking to leave the contiguous 48 states, the Dalton Highway in Alaska offers incredible mountainous views and offroading and overlanding opportunities.

Lakes

Areas with lakes can be great destinations for families, small groups, or anyone wanting to take a dip in the water after the drive. Although the terrain around some lakes can offer great offroading experiences, if you plan on camping by a lake, overlanding may be a wiser choice. The Great Lakes region in the northern U.S. and southern Canada has many places to camp around any of the five lakes. Lake Tahoe is another tried-and-true destination for overlanders.

Deserts

Deserts and dry areas can make for excellent offroading and overlanding areas, too – don’t forget to pack plenty of water and supplies! Although not all parts of this area are a desert, Moab, Utah, is one of the most popular places to go offroading and offers stunning views of red rock formations. Death Valley in California also is known in the offroading community for its Echo Pass Trail of medium difficulty. Joshua Tree National Park is also great to check out and fall in love with.

Check Axleboy Out

Here at Axleboy Offroad, our team loves what we do. When we’re not modifying our customer’s vehicles or selling equipment, we get involved in offroading community events or out on the trails ourselves. Whatever offroading or overlanding trips you’re planning for 2023, get in touch with us so we can connect and help you prepare for your adventures.

The post Offroading and Overlanding Adventures for 2023 appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

4×4 and Offroading New Year’s Resolutions

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:45:00 GMT

Who says New Year’s Resolutions always have to be about eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and getting in shape? You should add a few “fun” resolutions to your 2023 list! Adding some enjoyable goals can help make your more difficult ones easier to accomplish. So here are five 4×4 and offroading New Year’ resolutions you might want to achieve in 2023!

Cross Off Some Bucket List Items

2023 is a fantastic time to start crossing off some of your offroading bucket list items! Has there always been a trail you wanted to see or a place you wanted to visit in your 4×4? This is the year to make it happen.

If you don’t have a list of places to visit, it’s not too late to start one. The locations can be local to you, from all over the country, or even the world! It’s entirely up to you – you may not get to see them all, but you won’t make any progress unless you start.

Some commonly suggested offroad destinations include:

If you’re having trouble getting to those big-name places, start small. Maybe there’s a trail you have never visited in your area you always wanted to but never got the chance to. Now is the time to do so!

Get the Gear You Need (or Want)

What offroad gear is missing from your 4×4 or your garage? Saving up is an excellent New Year’s Resolution, and while you’re saving up your emergency and retirement funds, you can also be saving up for a treat. From rooftop tents to lift kits for your Jeep, there are always accessories you might be craving to add to your 4×4. Some may even be looking to buy a completely new rig! Whether it’s a small or large piece of gear, it’s something to look forward to in 2023.

Regarding this resolution, you can decide to treat yourself, but you may also want to ask for some missing gear during the holiday season! It doesn’t hurt to ask!

Get Out More Often

As much as we love it, we probably don’t get out mudding as much as we’d like. With life, family, work, responsibilities, and everything else, it can sometimes take a backseat. But by making a resolution (and sticking with it), you might find a bit of extra time to fit your love for offroading in a little more.

You might want to plan for weekly trips, monthly, or bimonthly, but even if you get out in your 4×4 one more time in 2023 than you did in 2022, that can be a success!

Take Care of Needed Maintenance

Have you been putting off that much-needed maintenance since it’s not a “problem” yet? Unchecked issues with offroad vehicles can lead to more significant issues later, even if they may seem minor. Tackling repairs, preventative maintenance, and more ASAP can lead to a longer life for your 4×4 and increased safety.

This may not be the most “fun” New Year’s resolution, but your vehicle will thank you for it!

Introduce Someone Else to Offroading

You likely already have buddies who love offroading, but what about introducing another to the fun? You probably know someone who would enjoy it; they just have to be asked. Consider talking to friends, co-workers, and family members who you think may be interested in offroading and see if they’d like to join you for an outing or two. You will gain a buddy for your 4×4 and help them find their new passion.

Resolutions for the new year tend to be about health, well-being, and personal improvements. We often forget that resolutions can be fun, too! How will you incorporate offroading into your 2023 New Year’s Resolutions?

Whether you want to treat yourself or introduce someone to offroading, we have you covered, especially for the holidays and the start of the new year. Find lift kits, rooftop tents, tow bars, and more all at Axelboy! Contact us today to learn more!

The post 4×4 and Offroading New Year’s Resolutions appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Tips for Overlanding In Your 4X4

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 19:33:00 GMT

There is no real destination when you take your 4X4 on an overlanding adventure. The goal is to become reliant on your vehicle for transportation and the gear you pack for shelter. Everything you need should be available within your vehicle, and you should use the journey to learn about the world around you. You should be equipped to tackle all types of weather and terrain and face any challenges that come your way.

Before you grab the gear and mod out your 4X4 or Jeep for overlanding, you need to get into the right mindset. If you appreciate hot showers and gourmet restaurant meals every day, this might not be for you! When you’re out in the wilderness for days or even weeks, you’ll need to “rough it” and problem-solve on the fly.

Overlanding is hard work, but it’s truly rewarding for those who are prepared for anything that comes their way. While it may seem like outfitting your 4X4 for overlanding can be costly, you may already have what you need to get started. That said, knowing how to operate your vehicle in all types of terrain is far more important than any gear you add to it.

A Reminder of Overlanding Basics

Keep these essential considerations in mind as you outfit your Jeep or 4X4 for overlanding:

More Important Overlanding Tips

While you may think about sleeping in your 4X4 when the weather is too extreme to sleep outdoors or in a tent, your vehicle’s interior is prime real estate for hauling cargo. Opt for a high-quality bed or roof-mounted tent that’s easy to set up and break down.

Want a home-cooked meal out in the wilderness? With a small refrigerator that runs off the vehicle’s power and a camp stove, along with storage for the food you need, you’ll eat well for days.

There’s a good chance that things will break out there, and it’s vital to have the tools you need to fix just about anything; make sure your vehicle’s toolbox is well-stocked. Bring a portable generator! Even if your 4X4 has enough power to handle the mods, there could be a time when you need extra help out in the middle of nowhere.

Other gear you should have on hand includes a first aid kit, air mattresses, water containers, and GPS devices. While this is by no means a comprehensive list, it’s a great starting point. Remember to adjust accordingly based on where you’re headed and how long you plan to take your 4X4 or Jeep when you’re out in the wilderness overlanding.

Talk to the Axleboy Team

Ready to explore the world of overlanding? Not all mechanics are experts in the upgrades it takes to get your 4X4 or Jeep ready. At Axleboy, we want every client to get the best customizations for their vehicle. We’re not your average shop. Instead of selling you anything, we’ll ensure you only get upgrades that are truly right for you. Get in touch with our team today !

The post Tips for Overlanding In Your 4X4 appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

4X4 Suspension Guide for Beginners

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 16:24:00 GMT

When it comes to the suspension system for your 4X4 or Jeep, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing the right one. It’s important to understand your vehicle’s needs and how a quality 4×4 suspension system can protect it from significant damage.

What Does the Suspension Do?

All cars have a suspension system. It protects the vehicle as it travels over uneven driving surfaces by keeping it stable and absorbing impact. The suspension system is on the underside of a vehicle and comprises several parts, including the coil springs, shock absorbers, and struts.

Different Types of 4X4 Suspension Systems

Because 4X4s and Jeeps travel on rough off-road trails, their suspension systems must be top-quality and pretty robust. Solid axle and independent suspension systems are among the most common setups for offroading.

Solid Axle 4X4 Suspension

Ultimately, the solid axle (also called a live axle or beam axle) suspension setup is the most classic approach for 4X4 vehicles or Jeeps. It refers to an axle that runs straight from one side of the vehicle to the other and adjusts on uneven surfaces to maximize the contact the wheels make with the road. Springs are located in the front and rear parallel to the frame. They attach to the axle and work to keep the vehicle suspended enough to avoid damage as it drives – on-road or off.

Solid axle suspension is exceptionally durable and easy to repair. There are fewer parts needed when installed, and it’s an excellent choice for those who offroad in areas with very rocky and uneven terrain, like the mountains. However, ground clearance is lower on vehicles with solid axle suspension systems, and overall vehicle weight is higher after installation.

Independent Suspension

This type of suspension system allows each wheel on the same axle to move independently from the other wheel on the axle. This means that one wheel or tire of your 4X4 can go over uneven terrain and absorb the shock without disturbing the other wheels. Many modern vehicles have either an independent rear suspension or independent front suspension systems, with either an axle in the rear or the front.

Independent suspension systems will provide a smoother ride than solid axle suspension, especially traveling offroad. It also offers much better cornering, meaning you’ll worry less about taking those turns. However, these suspension types have many moving parts and can be costly and complicated to install and repair. You’ll need to keep up with regular maintenance for your Jeep or 4X4 to keep everything running smoothly.

Choosing Suspension Systems

The mods on your vehicle, your tire size, and a number of other factors will determine which type of suspension system you need. The bottom line is that suspension systems and kits can be as complex (or streamlined) as you’d like them to be. The best way to know which is suitable for your 4X4 or Jeep is by choosing a team of experts that can guide you through the decision-making process.

Our experienced team at Axleboy is always ready to welcome you and your vehicle. We value your business and want to share our passion for 4X4s with you. Also, we promise to provide you with courteous and helpful service. That’s why we provide our clients with trusted custom consulting.

We know from our years in business that every client is different. How you choose to drive your vehicle is different from the next person. And there’s nothing wrong with that! We feel that’s one reason it’s so special to own a 4X4. Contact our team today if you’d like to discuss suspension systems or if you have any other questions!

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Stuck In A Rut | SMORR

Sat, 17 Sep 2022 09:10:23 GMT

While hitting the trails at SMORR (Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch), a friend of the shop (and rookie offroader) Tom Shipley, winds up getting his Toyota 4Runner stuck in a rut. Scott Carline helps explain what happened and helps him find his way back to solid footing with a built-in feature: A-TRAC!

Offroading Mistakes to Avoid

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 19:18:00 GMT

Offroading in your Jeep or 4X4 is a lot of fun until you get stranded because of broken mods or gear, and nobody is around to help you! Avoiding common offroading mistakes means you’ll stay safe, and your 4X4 or Jeep will withstand much less unnecessary damage.

Not Planning Your Route

Before hitting the (off)road, ensure you know where you’re going! It’s not enough to carry a GPS and wing it; what happens if you’re deep in nature and lose a signal? Take out a good, old-fashioned map and consider your offroad route. Take into account the route’s topography and ensure you take the right tools along to travel that rocky terrain. You could take the wrong turn right off a steep cliff without being armed with that information.

Better yet, talk to your offroading crew or head online to forums to see what other drivers share. These word-of-mouth resources are even better than scoping out a map. You’ll get a solid heads-up and helpful tips on successfully traveling your trails.

Going Offroading Alone

Think about the scenario above: What would you do if you did break down or get hurt on the trail without anyone around to help? Offroading in your 4X4 or Jeep is an inherently dangerous hobby, and having a partner (or team) on the trail helps you out of trouble.

If you don’t have off-road IRL friends, the internet is a great way to find some. There are websites and social media groups designed specifically for offroad adventures. If you absolutely must go offroading by your lonesome, give someone the details of where you’re going and how long you expect to be out.

Forgetting the Proper Gear

Bottom line? You need to bring the right gear with you on the trails. You’ll need a full gas tank, a tow rope, a spare tire and jack, a first aid kit, and your phone — that’s the bare minimum. You could also benefit from recommended mods like a winch, a high-lift jack, LED headlights, and a fire extinguisher.

If you’re unsure which mods are right for your 4×4, ask the technician when you bring it in for regularly scheduled maintenance (something you also need to do before hitting the trails.) Their experience will help guide you in the right direction regarding mods. They’ll suggest the best solutions based on what you need for off-road success.

Using the Wrong Tires

How long has it been since you replaced the tires on your 4×4? If you have a newer vehicle or one that’s new to you, likely, you’ve not yet had to replace them. Because the tires on your 4×4 are different from those on traditional cars, it’s important to do some research before making a purchase.

Mud tires for 4x4s have pretty heavy tread, with deeper channels that can easily dig through sludge and mud without losing traction. If you’re the type of driver that takes your vehicle mainly off-road, these might be your best choice. The tread patterns on them are also great for rocky terrains. They can protect tires from punctures and conform better to the trail’s topography.

Not Staying On the Trail

There are signs marking the route for a reason – don’t go off-trail into the brush that’s not meant for offroading. Make sure your 4X4 crosses streams or water where designated and drive over obstacles (and not around them) to avoid making the trail wider than it’s intended. Additionally, don’t dump your trash on the trail, and be a good citizen by picking up any litter that you see along the way.

Hidden dangers lie outside of the trail, too. Even if you have a map handy, you never know what to expect beyond the marked off road trail. There could be dangerous wildlife or natural hazards that even 4X4 mods, tools, and gear can’t protect you from.

Not Calling Us Before Offroading

Armed with the knowledge of offroad mistakes to avoid and a 4X4 or Jeep equipped with all the right mods, you’ll be hitting the trails in no time! Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team when you’re ready to start your 4×4 adventures and ask them about offroading mistakes they work hard to avoid!

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A-TRAC System | Gaining Traction

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 08:37:29 GMT

Scott Carline helps guide Tom Shipley through his first ever trail at SMORR (Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch) and explains why having an A-TRAC system installed in his Toyota 4Runner is essential to get him out of tricky situations.

What to Know About Replacing Your 4X4 Tires

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 18:58:00 GMT

Would you know what signs to look for that you need new tires? Regular visual inspections are the best way to know if it’s time, and there are a handful of clear signs that your 4X4 tires need to be replaced. Here are a few signs that it’s time to talk to us about replacing your tires.

Cuts/Chunking

Running over rough terrain is sure to take a few chunks out of your tires along the way, but if you notice more cuts or chunking than usual, there could be a problem. Choosing the right tires for the terrain will help; all-terrain or mud-terrain 4X4 tires are made to withstand off-road terrain.

Damage From Spin-Outs

Sometimes the only way to get out of mud, sand, or snow is to spin your tires to get some traction. Other accessories like mud flaps or fender flares can get caught and rub against tire treads during spinouts. This can also cause irreparable damage to the tread that requires total tire replacement.

Damage From Brake Skidding

There are times when the best and safest way to avoid an accident is to brake, and in some instances, this can be abrupt enough for your 4X4 to skid if it’s older and not equipped with ABS. This causes “bald spots” on the tire tread or even a blowout, which means your tires will need to be replaced.

Rock Retention

If your treads are deep and you’re a frequent offroader, your tires could retain rocks or stones in the deep all-terrain tread. Occasionally this isn’t a problem, but over time your 4X4 or Jeep could put weight on the tire and pressure on the stone, leading to tire rupture and replacement. Make sure to regularly inspect for rocks in the tread and remove them ASAP.

Uneven Wear

The tires on your 4X4 are designed to stay in evenly-distributed contact with the roadway. If one side of the tires is wearing more unevenly than the other, there could be an issue with your vehicle’s alignment or weight balance. Going too long without getting this checked could affect tire pressure and result in a blowout.

Tips for Choosing the Right 4X4 Tires

It’s worth repeating: The best way to keep your tires in top shape is by choosing the right type of tires in the first place. If you’re planning to use your 4×4 as a daily driver, you’ll need to choose a set that can handle rugged terrain and pavement with minimal wear and tear.

If you’re planning to use your 4×4 primarily for pavement driving, you’ll want to look into all-terrain tires. These are the factory set on many 4x4s and other SUVs, and while they are designed for paved road use, they can also navigate well in inclement weather and some “easy” off-road trails. While all-terrain tires are great for sand and beaches, they may not offer enough traction for muddy environments.

Talk to the Tire Professionals

How you choose to use your 4×4 is integral to knowing which tires you need. Axleboy technicians work with clients who use their vehicles for carpooling and drivers who want to take their 4×4 camping down by the river on the weekends. Once we learn where you plan on driving, we can help you pick out tires that will give you the most control of your vehicle.

When you come to us, we’ll work with you to determine what type of tires best fit your purposes. After choosing the appropriate tire options for your model, we’ll expertly mount and balance them. Contact us today to get the best tires for your ride!

The post What to Know About Replacing Your 4X4 Tires appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

ARB Air Lockers | Gaining Traction

Sat, 23 Jul 2022 08:33:02 GMT

Scott Carline takes a break while hitting the trails at SMORR (Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch) to discuss some different techniques you can use when experiencing wheel slippage, including why he personally chooses to utilize ARB Air Lockers to navigate out of these situations!

Top 4×4 Issues You’re Likely to Encounter

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 20:29:00 GMT

Has your 4X4 been a little noisier than usual? Have you noticed a wobble lately that wasn’t there a few months ago? Is your dashboard flashing warning lights? Don’t ignore these red flags! They may seem like minor inconveniences, but it’s your 4X4 telling you it’s time to visit us here at Axleboy.

I Haven’t Had My 4X4 Inspected In a Long Time

Offroading can impact your 4X4 vehicle’s chassis and suspension, and it’s not unusual for smaller parts, nuts, or bolts to fall off during offroading adventures. This generally doesn’t lead to anything more serious as long as those parts are replaced quickly. Perform regular inspections to see what may be missing, and consult a professional if you need something replaced.

I’m Noticing More Drips and Leaks From My 4X4

Some drips and drops under your 4X4 vehicle are perfectly normal, but excessive leaking can lead to low fluid levels, which will, in turn, impact all of the major engine components. Check your fluid levels regularly to ensure that they’re at appropriate levels. Even after topping off, it’s time to look for a more significant problem under the hood if they are lower than you expected.

My Axles Are Making Too Much Noise

Any noise from your vehicle means something is amiss, but that’s especially true when your 4X4 axles are whistling. Whistling or clunking sounds mean your transfer case may need servicing; the transfer case is integral for engaging all four wheels in 4X4 mode. These noises could also be a symptom of a much bigger problem, something that a mechanic would be able to uncover.

My Warning Lights Keep Illuminating

If your 4X4 or Jeep was manufactured within the last two decades, it would have dashboard indicator lights that illuminate when there are some problems. It could be engine-related, something to do with the tires and alignment, or any number of errors depending on your vehicle, but you can’t ignore these lights. As soon as one comes on, call to make an appointment to have your 4×4 vehicle checked out.

I Can’t Get 4X4 Mode to Engage

If you’ve driven your Jeep or 4X4 vehicle for any time, you’ll sense when all four wheels aren’t getting power — even if there’s no indicator light displayed telling you this. You may experience jerking or shaking when you try to engage in 4X4 driving, and it doesn’t work. This signifies that a qualified mechanic needs to inspect your vehicle ASAP.

My Jeep Is Stuck In 4X4 Mode

You also have a problem on your hands if the vehicle doesn’t disengage from 4X4 mode. Theoretically, you could always drive it in 4X4 mode, but doing so when unnecessary can wear down your engine and transmission components and burn through fuel more quickly than you’d like.

My 4X4 Mods Aren’t Functioning How They’re Supposed To

As with the core components of your 4X4, your modifications can malfunction, break, or wear down over time. Winches can malfunction, closures on soft or hard Jeep tops can degrade, and recovery straps can break — this is part of the offroading life, but you don’t have to drive around with broken mods. Head to the mechanic that installed the mods for repair.

I Just Bought My 4X4 and I Don’t Know Where to Start

We know from our years in business that every client is different. How you choose to drive your vehicle is different from the next person. And, there’s nothing wrong with that! We feel that’s one reason it’s so special to own a 4X4. Ready to get your 4X4 repaired and back on the road? Contact our team today to schedule an appointment before your next offroad adventure!

The post Top 4×4 Issues You’re Likely to Encounter appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

TeraFlex Nomad Air Deflator | Airing Down Offroad

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 23:50:07 GMT

Before heading out on the trails for an offroad adventure it's important to air down your tires to achieve maximum traction. Before hitting the trails at SMORR (Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch) Scott Carline demonstrates one way to quickly and efficiently air down your rig's tires when it is equipped with the TeraFlex Nomad Air Deflator, as well as highlights some key features of the Teraflex Nomad Wheels!

ARB Quick Deflator | Airing Down Offroad

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 23:42:12 GMT

Summer 4×4 Adventures

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 19:48:00 GMT

One of the best parts about owning a Jeep or 4X4 is taking it out in the great outdoors with all your gear. Offroading and overlanding are fun ways to enjoy nature with your friends and family, but you should know a few things before heading out for summer 4×4 adventures.

Gearing Up for the Adventure

Take a look at your 4X4 or Jeep – you may already have what you need to get started.

Other considerations include fuel economy and the reliability of your axles. You won’t have repair shops or gas stations when you’re 0verlanding offroading. Plan your trips accordingly to optimize fuel use and have a qualified 4×4 mechanic check your suspension before going off-grid.

What Else Do I Need?

You’ll need to stock up on supplies based on where you’re going and how long you’re staying out.

Other gear you should have on hand includes a first aid kit, sleeping bags, water containers, and GPS devices. While this is by no means a comprehensive list, it’s a great starting point. Remember to adjust accordingly based on where you’re headed and how long you plan to be out camping.

Ready to hit the wilderness with your Jeep or 4X4 and find some adventure this summer? Not all mechanics are experts in the upgrades it takes to get your vehicle ready. At Axleboy, we want every client to get the best customizations for their vehicle. We’re not your average shop. Instead of selling you anything and everything, we’ll ensure you only get upgrades that are truly important to you. Get in touch with our team today!

The post Summer 4×4 Adventures appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

A Guide to Off-Road Etiquette

Mon, 09 May 2022 18:46:00 GMT

You’ve bought your dream Jeep or 4X4, added some seriously cool mods, and now you’re ready to off-road – right? Wrong! Much like there are rules for traveling on paved roads, there is also off-road etiquette. Make sure you know the basics before you put tires to the dirt.

Do Your Research

Before you hit the trails, know where you’re going and how to access the land you’re traveling on. Research the area and understand the route you’re taking; there may be areas where you travel that don’t support GPS or cell service, so you won’t be able to check your phone for directions. You’ll also need to know if the area charges for access and if there are any trail closures.

Respect the Land

There are signs marking the route for a reason – don’t go off-trail into vegetation that’s not meant for off-roading. Make sure your 4X4 crosses streams or water where designated and drive over obstacles (and not around them) to avoid making the trail wider than it’s intended to be. Additionally, don’t dump your trash on the trail, and be a good citizen by picking up any litter that you see along the way.

Give Them Space

Many off-road trails play host to other travelers like horse riders, hikers, and mountain/dirt bikes. Your 4X4 is bigger and louder than all of those, and you need to yield the right of way to them. Failing to do so can kick up dust and rock, creating unnecessary and hazardous conditions. If you see horses on the trail, the best practice is to pull to the side safely and turn off your noisy vehicle until they pass.

Let Them Know

Off-roading is always more fun in groups, but taking your 4X4 or Jeep on a group run presents more safety challenges for other travelers on the trail. If you’re the pack leader, make sure you inform oncoming traffic of how many are in your group – simply holding a number out the window using your fingers will let them know how to give you space. The last vehicle on the train will hold out a fist to let you know the parade is over.

Follow the Rules of the Road

The first rule is about hills: Any vehicles traveling up a hill have the right of way because they need to maintain the momentum required to get to the top. Second rule: Watch the space between you and the vehicle in front of you, like on a highway. Third: Don’t ever (ever) stop in the middle of a trail or an obstacle! Wait until you can safely pull over, off the trail, and out of the way. Finally, and probably most importantly: Don’t drink before or during off-roading (but you already knew that one.)

Other Dos and Don’ts

DO mind your dust: Just because you have cool mods on your 4X4 and some seriously rugged tires doesn’t mean you should show them off at another vehicle’s expense. Slow down as you pass other trail travelers to be respectful and safe.

DON’T pack your ego: Staying safe while off-roading means you need to know your skills and how you’re limited about what you can’t yet do. Be the bigger person and skip that obstacle or difficult trail if you have any questions about your ability to ride them safely.

DO know when to accept help: Being winched out of a trickly obstacle is no big deal; it happens to even the most seasoned off-roaders. If you’re tried to get over it a few times with no success, it’s time to call in the team – no shame in that game.

DON’T leave anyone behind: Stop to help others on the trail that may be having problems with their 4X4 or Jeep, and never go ahead when someone in your group is stopped with their issues. Stick around until everything is resolved; it’s the right thing.

Armed with the knowledge of off-road etiquette and a 4×4 equipped with all the right mods, you’ll be hitting the trains in no time! Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team when you’re ready to start your 4×4 adventures, and be sure to revisit this off-roading guide in the future.

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How to Get Your 4×4 Ready for Spring

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 15:28:00 GMT

It doesn’t matter if your 4×4 has been holed up in the garage all weekend or you’ve been out enjoying the frosty trails – spring weather is finally here! Your vehicle is an investment, and it’s essential to keep it well-maintained after every season of driving so you’re not stuck on the side of the trail when you go offroading this year. Check out the spring maintenance tips for your 4X4 below!

Start With a Thorough Cleaning

Whether you’re a DIY car washer or have it detailed by a professional, you can’t skip this step before going back on the road. Snow and freezing winter weather means salt, and that means residue that can damage the underside and body of your 4×4. Ensure your exterior cleaning job is comprehensive enough to get rid of that residue; it can eat away at the paint and eventually lead to corrosion.

Don’t miss washing the undercarriage with a high-pressure hose. If your fenders are messy and gunked up, consider upgrading to a set of off-road fenders for your 4×4. When you’re done cleaning off the mess, head to your headlights. Well-lit trails and roadways are vital to staying safe, and if you can’t get your headlights clean to allow the light entirely through, it’s time for a replacement or even an upgrade to LED lights.

Time for a Check-Up

Now that your 4×4 vehicle is thoroughly clean, it’s time to get down to the nuts and bolts of maintenance.

Undercarriage: Check for loose parts, hoses, damage, frayed wires, or anything else that could lead to severe problems when you’re out on an adventure. Tighten any bolts on gear, and make notes for when you bring in your Jeep for any modifications or repairs.

Exterior parts: When you’re offroading in the mud, rain, or heavy wind, make sure you’re protected from the elements. Replace your wiper blades, check plastic windows, and replace broken or old parts. It will help keep you safer and less exposed and could prevent serious problems on the trail.

Battery: Check that your 4×4’s battery is fully charged, properly attached, and free of corrosion. Ensure that your jumper cables work, and even think about picking up an extra battery to have on hand when you’re on the road.

Belts and hoses: These are essential parts of keeping your 4×4 running smoothly. When belts and hoses aren’t working correctly or worn down, you’re at risk of breaking down or even ruining your engine altogether.

Tires and brakes : Between climbing and stopping, traction is a big deal when it comes to keeping your 4×4 safe and in top shape. Tires should have plenty of tread, and brake pads need to be thick enough to help you stop safely.

Oil and other fluids: This is a great time to change your oil, regardless of what your odometer says. Make sure you also replace the oil filter to keep things running well through spring. Top off wiper fluid, coolant, power steering, and brake fluids while you’re at it.

Talk to Us About Mods

Spring is a great time to make an appointment to upgrade your 4×4 with custom modifications to enjoy sunny spring and summer offroading.

Are you ready to take on spring in your 4×4? Follow the checklist of maintenance tips above and get ready to hit the road! We’re your team if you need a fresh set of eyes or looking for modifications. Get in touch with our team today!

The post How to Get Your 4×4 Ready for Spring appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Women and Cars: A Brief History

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 19:51:00 GMT

March is Women’s History Month, and to celebrate, we’d like to look back at the role women have played in shaping our work today. Men have long dominated the automotive industry and auto repair world, but that doesn’t mean women haven’t played a significant role. Unfortunately, their stories are rarely told, so it’s hard to understand how important they have been throughout the decades.

Here at Axleboy, we would like to highlight how women shaped the industry’s past and will also impact its future. That’s why we started AxleGirl , an all-women, hands-on training day that allows women to ask questions about their Jeeps and organize rides together. This program gives ladies the opportunity to become comfortable with their Jeeps. If you want to participate in AxleGirl, get in touch with our team! Meanwhile, brush up on your history of women and cars below.

In the Beginning

As far as we’re concerned, women have been side-by-side with men since the inception of the automobile – take a look at Bertha Benz, whose last name has become synonymous with “luxury vehicle.” Mrs. Benz was the wife and business partner of automobile pioneer Karl Benz — German engineer, inventor, and credited as the creator of what’s considered “the first practical motorcar”.

When they got married in 1872, he used her dowry as financial support to build his first horseless carriage in 1885. Bertha tested these prototypes, and her help led to the additions of wire insulation and the invention of leather brake pads. She also financed the development of the Motorwagen, but the laws at the time prevented her from holding the patent or credit of the inventor as a married woman.

In 1888, Bertha embarked on the first cross-country automobile journey in a Motorwagen Model III for a trip that lasted about 66 miles. She wanted to prove to her husband (and the world) that she had contributed to a life-changing invention and helped create financial success. Bertha also started the practice of test drives within the automotive industry. In 2008, the Bertha Benz Memorial Route was established to mark and celebrate her journey.

Women Drivers Take Over

It wasn’t until the 1920s and the mass production of the Model T that women widely became more independent and chose to purchase cars on their own, independently. Later, in the 1930s, Chrysler took hold of this growing trend and created more “modern” advertising targeting women. During WWII, Rosie the Riveter drew in mechanically-minded women who were looking to support the troops and learn valuable car repair skills.

When the war was over and the country no longer needed to use manufacturing facilities for military use, car ownership jumped. Across America, the highway system spread like wildfire, and more families were moving out to the suburbs – where moms needed access to vehicles to travel into town for daily needs like groceries or clothing for the kids. This helped push women into the role of driver and owner instead of just being a passenger while the men were driving.

Over several decades, more women joined the workforce and needed a car for their commute. Changing financial rules and regulations freed them to finance or purchase a vehicle without their husbands’ permission. Today, there are about an equal number of female and male car owners. Women like Denise McCluggage (the only female race car driver to be inducted into the Automotive Hall Of Fame) helped transform the male-dominated racing industry.

There are also other women whose contributions can be seen and felt in the cars we drive today:

Mary Anderson: This Alabama native created a windshield wiper prototype made of wood and rubber and attached it to a lever near the vehicle’s steering wheel. When you pulled the lever, the wipers moved back and forth to wipe away snow, rain, and sleet, and they could be removed and stored during the summertime. Mary patented her invention, but it was largely ignored by the automotive industry and expired. However, Cadillac was the first manufacturer to adopt the design as standard equipment.

Florence Lawrence: This former movie star created what she named “auto-signaling arms” which used flags on either side of the automobile that could be raised and lowered at the push of a button. This feature evolved into the turn signal, which eventually became mandatory on modern vehicles. Florence then invented a sign for the back of the car that had the word “STOP” painted on it, which warned automobiles when the driver in front of them was slowing down; it evolved into what is now the brake light.

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Tips for New 4X4 Owners

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 20:46:00 GMT

All you need is a single ride in a 4X4 vehicle to understand the appeal of owning one, but it’s important for new 4×4 owners to understand a handful of essential tips and best practices before hitting the road.

Know Your Car

Genuinely get to know what your 4X4 is (and isn’t) capable of, both on- and off-road. This means scouring the forums, talking to people who own the same vehicle, and reading the owner’s manual. Take note of how much undercarriage clearance your vehicle has to avoid damage on the road or the trails. Get a good feel for the acceleration and braking times. These factors play a role in how you react behind the wheel.

Know Your Angles

Manufacturers will provide you with the essential angles when you’re shopping for a new or used 4WD or Jeep. However, if you’re looking at vehicles with mods like lift kits, larger tires, or customized bumpers, you can easily measure these angles with some simple math. The measurement from the point where the front tire meets the ground to the lowest part of your car, which is usually the front bumper — that’s your approach angle. Do the same at the back of the vehicle with the tire and bumper to find your departure angle.

Be Prepared

You’ll definitely need a full gas tank, a tow rope, spare tire and jack, a first aid kit, and your phone — that’s the bare minimum. You could also benefit from recommended mods like a winch and a high-lift jack, along with LED headlights and a fire extinguisher. If you’re unsure about which safety-related mods are suitable for your 4×4, make sure to ask the technician when you bring it in for regularly scheduled maintenance (something you also need to do before hitting the trails.)

Plan Your Route

While it’s certainly fun to think about blazing trails in your 4X4, the last thing you need is to get stuck in unknown territory. Use a paper map to plan out the route you’ll travel when you go off-road; don’t trust GPS and location-finding technology to always work in the middle of the wilderness. Knowing what kind of terrain you’re traveling is a must to avoid damage, too.

Watch For the Wobble

Death wobble happens in Jeeps, 4x4s, and trucks when rapidly rotating steering wheel components cause your steering wheel to move rapidly from side to side. This causes your vehicle to feel like it’s about to fall apart, and you want to hold onto the steering wheel for dear life. It happens at speeds above 40 miles per hour and is usually caused by hitting a bump or a pothole. Don’t take your hands off the steering wheel if you feel your vehicle shaking violently and think it may be going into a death wobble. Grip lightly, slow down, and pull over to stop the death wobble safely.

Invest In Maintenance

Don’t overlook the importance of checking any mods you may have on your 4X4 as well. Mechanical issues with mods like winches or suspension, for example, can become a huge safety concern and grow into serious problems later on down the road. Ultimately, it’s best to talk to an experienced mechanic about the type of preventative 4×4 maintenance schedule you can create for your vehicle.

Before you decide on which mods to add to your new 4X4 or put any more off-road miles on your vehicle, visit our team. Our full-service automotive facility and team of experts are constantly studying the latest trends and researching new-product manufacturers. We own the responsibility of providing our clients with the highest quality 4X4 and Jeep parts and most dependable service — contact us today to get started!

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Does Your 4X4 Need New Tires?

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 21:38:00 GMT

Stock and Lift

The right tires will not only maintain your 4×4 efficiency but will also protect the environment when you’re off-roading. If you’re starting out with a stock set, you need to identify the size you currently have to know what upgrades you can choose. If you have a lift kit, keep that in mind to know how tall of a tire you can select.

Daily Driving

If you’re planning to use your 4×4 as a daily driver, you’ll need to choose a set that can handle both rugged terrain and pavement with minimal wear and tear. Tires that work well in mud will be noisy on the highway, and pavement-only tires could lack the traction needed on the trails. Talk to us about choosing a set that’s a good compromise without sacrificing grip or noise levels.

All Terrain Tires

Off-Road Tires

Mud tires for 4x4s have pretty heavy tread, with deeper channels that can easily dig through sludge and mud without losing traction. If you’re the type of driver that takes your vehicle mainly off-road, these might be your best choice. The tread patterns on them are also great for rocky terrains. They can protect tires from possible punctures, and they conform better to the trail’s topography.

Winter Weather Tires

For climates and adventures that include snow and ice, a good set of winter tires could be better than even the best mud or off-road 4×4 ones. Not only will they offer better traction on slippery surfaces, but you’ll also find that they provide shorter stopping distance, improved turning, and better acceleration. Don’t forget your winch when you go on winter adventures, regardless of how good they might be!

Under Pressure

Don’t overlook the importance of airing down. Even if you have the right tires for your chosen terrain, changing the tire pressure by airing down can increase vehicle and tire performance. Lowering pressure can widen your tire’s footprint and allow it to flex and conform to the terrain more. Just remember not to lower it too much and increase pressure before taking your 4×4 back on the pavement.

Airing down is especially important if you plan to take your 4×4 to the beach or through the sand. Wider tires are an excellent choice for these trips, but you can also air down for increased traction, better weight distribution, and less spin-out when you accelerate. Just make sure not to gun it too hard because you’ll dig yourself into a hole instead of taking off.

More Than Just Tires

No matter which trails you travel or the tires you choose, you shouldn’t go off-roading without some essential preparations. If you’ve never been before, it could be worth taking a course. Don’t overlook the importance of a winch kit to help in case you get stuck and a first-aid kit (just in case). Respect the nature around you and stay on the designated trails.

How you choose to use your 4×4 is an important part of knowing which tires you need. Axleboy technicians work with clients who use their vehicle for school carpool and drivers who want to take their Jeep camping down by the river on the weekends. Once we learn where you plan on driving, we can help you pick out tires that will give you the most control of your vehicle.

When you come to us, we’ll work with you to determine what type of tires best fit your purposes. After choosing the right tire options for your model, we’ll expertly mount and balance them. Contact us today to get the best tires for your ride!

The post Does Your 4X4 Need New Tires? appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Basic 4×4 Maintenance

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 20:43:00 GMT

Have a new 4X4 that’s still under warranty? Congratulations – there’s not much you have to do on your own to keep up with the basic 4×4 maintenance other than quick visual checks (see below). This blog post isn’t for you quite yet, but it’s important to read and bookmark. Put a few miles and years on your 4X4 you’ll want to know the ins and outs of preventative maintenance.

The best place to start is with your vehicle’s owner manual. Who better than the vehicle’s manufacturer to tell you how to care for it? Even if you’re not one to love following the rules, the owner’s manual is a great way to best understand what you can be doing to take care of your 4X4. Plan out a maintenance schedule and even though you may be tempted, don’t wait longer than recommended in between service appointments.

Much of this you can do on your own, starting with visual checks that can be performed as often as every time you drive your 4X4:

These visual checks will alert you to any small issue with your vehicle, and the regular services listed below will also alert mechanics to any need for repairs:

Ultimately, it’s best to talk to an experienced mechanic about the type of preventative 4×4 maintenance schedule you can create for your vehicle. As Missouri’s go-to team for Jeeps and 4X4s, we are constantly studying the latest trends and researching new-product manufacturers because we own the responsibility of providing our clients with the highest quality parts and most dependable service. To maintain that quality reputation, we have filled our shop with state-of-the-art equipment and the best mechanics in the midwest. Contact us today to get started!

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Behind the Build | Gladiator Camera System

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 14:12:13 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind adding the camera system, including how it integrates into the rearview mirror and the many benefits it provides! Equipment discussed in this video:

-Brandmotion FullVUE Mirror & Camera System

Behind the Build | Gladiator Stereo & Lights

Sat, 20 Nov 2021 11:47:01 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind adding a restyled stereo system and updating the lighting package! Equipment discussed in this video:

-Alpine Restyle X409 Stereo Head Unit

-Mopar LED Headlights

-Diode Dynamics SS3 Lights

Behind the Build | Gladiator Tazer

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:14:06 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind adding a tazer, as well as how they work and what they do for the rig!

Behind the Build | Gladiator Rock Sliders

Sat, 13 Nov 2021 11:10:17 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind adding the step sliders to the rig, as well as some additional benefits they provide! Equipment discussed in this video:

-Rock Slide Engineering Step Sliders

Behind the Build | Gladiator Winch

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 11:06:00 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind adding a winch and shackle to the rig! Equipment discussed in this video:

-12000 lbs Bulldog Winch

-Factor 55 Flatlink & Flatlink Rope Guard

Winter Offroading and 4X4 Trips

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 16:23:00 GMT

Ready to start planning some entertaining winter offroading adventures in your 4×4 or Jeep? We have some excellent suggestions for you! We know our winter offroading destinations as well as we know how to mod and repair 4x4s and Jeeps, and we want to help inspire your next adventure!

St. Joe State Park

St. Joe is one of just two off-road vehicle parks in the Missouri park system and offers a variety of trails for a range of off-road vehicles (permit required). There are also many outdoor activity attractions, including four lakes, two swimming beaches, horse riding trails, hiking, biking, and campsites.

Potawatomi

Potawatomi is located in Fulton and is open to ATVs, motorcycles, and 4×4 vehicles and offers three motocross tracks, ATV trails, and 4×4 trails. You’ll find campsites at the park next to the lake and a staging area near the entrance off Bartley Lane. There’s a small fee for vehicles and passengers, and primitive camping is available for those who are adventurous enough during the winter.

Pruitt Mountain Adventures

Pruitt Mountain is located in Caledonia and is one of the tallest mountains in the Ozark Mountain range. The park, which is open to all vehicle types, offers 900 acres of various terrain from steep hills to open fields and allows camping in certain areas. There is a $15 per-person fee for entry, so keep that in mind when taking the whole family during the wintertime.

Flat Nasty Off-Road Park

Flat Nasty is about two hours from St. Louis and has over 850 acres of off-road trails with amazing views of the Ozark Mountains. This is a popular off-road destination, and camping is permitted, plus there’s a log cabin on the premises that’s available to rent. This park has plenty of events happening throughout the year, so make sure to follow them on Facebook.

Moonlight Racing

Located in Sullivan, Moonlight Racing offers over 12 miles of offroading fun for you, your friends, and your family. There are various types of terrain to tackle with your ATV, UTV, dirtbikes, and most importantly 4×4’s. There’s even a repair shop available in case any parts need to be fixed or replaced. Make sure to check out their social media accounts to learn about their upcoming New Year’s Eve bash!

Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch

The ranch is located about five miles south of Seymour, MO on HWY K. There are miles trails ranging from level 1 easy to level 6 hardcore across over 940 acres, giving every skill level a challenge — new trails are cut daily. From their website: “Black bear, whitetail deer, turkey, and the occasional armadillo frequent the trails – so keep an eye out for our local residents and be sure to let us know if you see any.”

Rush Springs Ranch

All vehicle types and experience levels are welcome at this 70+ acre ranch in Pineville, MO. The ranch also boasts 28 campsites with hookups and 12 rustic cabins, plus four boathouse cabins and even Jeep driving lessons.

Byrd’s Adventure Center

Plan your next 4×4 camp outing, bring your friends and enjoy some of the best off-road trails in Arkansas at Byrd’s. It boasts one of the most challenging 4WD obstacle courses in the nation and was the first ORV park in Arkansas. They offer 4×4 trails for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.

Mojave Road

This east-west route in Arizona and California is rough and sandy, and roads can become slick, muddy, and impassable after rains. All vehicles operating within Mojave National Preserve must be street-legal per California DMV requirements.

Alpine Loop

This Colorado trail is 63 miles long and passes through seven ghost towns. There’s a rich history in the area and countless scenic views, with a stop-off that’s been dubbed as the “Switzerland of America.”

Rubicon Trail

There’s a reason that Jeep devoted a whole line of vehicles to this California trail. It’s moderately difficult and better for experienced riders who won’t be upset should some minor damage occur as a recreational hazard.

Magruder Road Corridor

Starting outside Elk City, Idaho, this trail takes around two days to travel on the way to Montana. Along the way, you’ll have great views of a variety of landscapes and opportunities to camp.

White Rim Trail

This is arguably the most scenic route in Utah, and it’s moderately difficult for even Jeeps with plenty of ground clearance. It’s nearly 100 miles of breathtaking sandstone views and a challenging expedition.

The post Winter Offroading and 4X4 Trips appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Behind the Build | Gladiator Tent

Sat, 06 Nov 2021 11:01:37 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down how they went about finding a tent, and all the benefits that this specific one provides during offroading! The tent that is featured on the Gladiator:

-ARB Series III Rooftop Tent

Behind the Build | Gladiator Bed Rack

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 10:58:49 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision of overhauling the bed of the Jeep, including the benefits of running a Hi-Rack system, and their solution to utilizing as much space as possible! Equipment included in this video:

-Road Armor Treck Rack with Spare Tire Mount

-DECKED Drawer System

2022 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison Edition | Overview

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 21:09:52 GMT

Scott Carline overviews one of our featured builds: the 2022 Chevy Colorado ZR2, Bison Edition. This vehicle is a collaborative effort between General Motors and American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) to create a rig ready for offroading as soon as it's off the production line! Don't worry, though, because there's still plenty of truck left to do your own customizations, as we have done to ours. Scott breaks down all of this and explains why this alliance between these two organizations is an optimistic sign moving forward!

Behind the Build | Gladiator Bumpers & Fenders

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 09:40:54 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind overhauling the bumpers and fenders, including how approach-angle came into the equation! Equipment discussed in this video:

-Genright Front & Rear Tube Fenders

-Genright Stubby Front Bumper

-Genright Rear Stop Bumper

Behind the Build | Gladiator Wrap Up

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 14:17:41 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley wrap up this edition of "Behind the Build" with some words of appreciation and again show all of the amazing new gear that has been added to this 2020 Jeep Gladiator by the amazing and talented crew at Axleboy!

Behind the Build | Gladiator Shocks

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 09:38:00 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind overhauling the shocks on the vehicle! Equipment discussed in this video:

- Falcon 3.3 Adjustable Shocks

Behind the Build | Gladiator Wheels & Tires

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 09:34:01 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down the decisions that went into overhauling the wheels and tires! Equipment discussed in this video:

-Teraflex Nomad Wheels

-Falken Wildpeak 37" Mud Tires

Winter Driving in Your 4X4

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 19:30:00 GMT

Although the leaves are just now turning colors and starting to fall off the trees here in St. Louis, winter will be here before you know it. Even with a hearty 4X4 vehicle equipped with mods and upgrades to make winter driving safer, it’s essential to understand how to handle driving in winter weather.

If you remember anything about winter driving, remember this: avoid any abrupt turns, stops, and other potentially unsafe maneuvers. Below are some fundamentals on how to stay safe when the Missouri winter weather starts moving in.

Check the Weather

Get acquainted with your favorite weather app — you’ll need it to know what kind of snow you’ll be encountering behind the wheel of your 4X4. Shallow snow will be forgiving, but ice-glazed deeper snow means you’ll have to be a bit more careful and avoid sudden movements. When accelerating, wheel speed is the name of the game here; too high and snow will freeze in your tire, and too slow means you’ll sink into the snow.

If you’re driving on pavement, big tires will help get you off to a start from a stop without too much of an issue. Be especially careful if there’s ice on the road under the snow, especially when accelerating. Off-road snow requires a bit more finesse; treat it like mud or sand and accelerate smoothly, feathering the clutch. This can help you avoid digging down into the snow.

Stopping Is Key

There’s one significant rule when it comes to stopping your 4X4 vehicle in the snow: Give yourself more room than you need. Many cars on the road have ABS systems, which means they will stop better and faster than you, and in nature, trees (for example) aren’t going to move much when you hit them. Double whatever stopping distance you would typically leave.

When you’re on-road, ice will present more of an issue than snow. It doesn’t matter if you can see it or it’s a patch of black ice, all of it is pretty dangerous. Off-road driving in snow is a bit more forgiving when it comes time for a full stop. Locking up the brakes on your 4X4 is fine as long as you’re giving yourself enough time and distance to avoid hitting anything. If you do happen to hit ice, don’t slam the brakes! While it may feel like the easiest and fastest way to stop, pumping the brakes is much more efficient and safer.

Concentrate on Steering

Your 4X4 is top-heavy and has a short wheelbase, and this higher center of gravity could increase the chance of tipping or rolling over during a sharp turn. Deep snow can make it difficult to turn your tires on the pavement, even if your wheel is cranked to the right or the left. Keep your 4×4 in four-wheel drive on the icy roads to steer where you’re headed and keep from spinning out. On trails, stay in ready-made tracks, keep your speed down, and keep it in four-wheel drive.

If you’re planning on taking your 4X4 out in the winter weather more often than not, or your vehicle is a daily driver, it’s probably a bright idea to invest in a set of winter tires. Our team can certainly help with that! One thing we know from our years in business is that every client is different. How you choose to drive your vehicle is different from the next person.

We love 4X4s and winter off-roading as much as you do! Get in touch with us now before winter weather hits and you’re stuck without the custom gear you need to play in the snow!

The post Winter Driving in Your 4X4 appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Behind the Build: Gladiator Suspension & Gears

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 09:14:10 GMT

Scott and Tom Shipley take a trip offroad to talk about the massive buildout done on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator! In this episode, Scott breaks down everything that went into the decision behind the overhaul of the suspension and gears. Equipment discussed in this video:

-Teraflex RT2 Suspension System

-Revolution 4.88 Ring and Pinion Gear Set

-Genright Stubby Front & Rear Tube Fenders

Is It Time to Repair Your 4×4?

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:55:00 GMT

When it comes to the vehicles we drive daily, it’s easy to tell when something could be amiss. It’s also easy to find a mechanic that can repair basic damage on a car that doesn’t do any offroading. However, 4X4 repairs are highly specialized and require an experienced mechanic to tackle the job.

Generally, 4X4 vehicles endure more damage than highway drivers based on the inherent nature of offroading. Owners need to follow the suggested maintenance for their 4X4 to lower the chance for future repairs. Between visits to the mechanic, though, you can also look for these signs that it’s time to make an appointment with our team.

Lighted Indications

If your 4X4 was manufactured within the last two decades, it will have dashboard indicator lights that illuminate when there are some problems. It could be engine-related or something to do with the tires and alignment, or any number of errors depending on your vehicle, but you can’t ignore these lights. As soon as one comes on, call to make an appointment to have your 4×4 vehicle checked out.

4X4 Mode Doesn’t Engage

If you’ve driven your 4X4 vehicle for any amount of time, you’ll sense when all four wheels aren’t getting power — even if there’s no indicator light displayed telling you this. You may experience jerking or shaking when you try to engage 4X4 driving, and it doesn’t work. This is a sign that a qualified mechanic needs to inspect your vehicle ASAP.

4X4 Mode Sticks

On the other hand, you also have a problem on your hands if the vehicle doesn’t disengage from 4X4 mode. Theoretically, you could drive it in 4X4 mode all the time, but doing so when unnecessary can wear down your engine and transmission components and burn through fuel more quickly than you’d like.

Noisy Axles

Any noise coming from your vehicle means that something is amiss, but that’s especially true when your 4X4’s axles are whistling. Whistling or clunking sounds mean that your transfer case may need servicing; the transfer case is integral for engaging all four wheels in 4X4 mode. These noises could also be a symptom of a much bigger problem, something that a mechanic would be able to uncover.

Drips And Leaks

Some drips and drops under your 4X4 vehicle are perfectly normal, but excessive leaking can lead to low fluid levels, which will, in turn, impact all of the major engine components. Check your fluid levels regularly to ensure that they’re at appropriate levels. If they are lower than you expected even after topping off, it’s time to look for a bigger problem under the hood.

Missing Parts or Bolts

Mods Aren’t Working Properly

Just as with the core components of your 4X4, your modifications can malfunction, break, or wear down over time. Winches can malfunction, closures on soft or hard Jeep tops can degrade, and recovery straps can break — this is part of the offroading life, but you don’t have to drive around with broken mods. Head to the mechanic that installed the mods for repair.

Our experienced team at Axleboy is always ready to welcome you and your vehicle. We value your business, and we want to share our passion for 4X4s with you. Also, we promise to provide you with courteous and helpful service. That’s why we provide our clients with trusted custom consulting.

One thing we know from our years in business is that every client is different. How you choose to drive your vehicle is different from the next person. And, there’s nothing wrong with that! We feel that’s one reason why it’s so special to own a 4X4. Ready to get your 4X4 repaired and back on the road? Contact our team today to set up an appointment!

The post Is It Time to Repair Your 4×4? appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Axleboy Off Road Is July’s ‘Bestop Jobber Of The Month’

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 16:11:00 GMT

“We’re all about helping people to select the right products for their needs, not about making the buck. We describe it as the ‘Axle Boy Experience’ and we try to deliver the same experience every time.”

That’s the mission statement that Axleboy has held for over 17 years, since owner Scott Carline first opened up shop. Carline knew he didn’t want to just sell people “stuff” for their Jeeps and 4×4 vehicles, but instead help them truly live the off-road lifestyle.

Since 2004, Scott and his team have been looking for and using the best products and manufacturers for their clients. “Often we were finding that they (customers) were picking the wrong thing,” says Scott. “Just picking the thing you see in a magazine doesn’t mean that it’s the right thing for you.”

Throughout the years, Bestop Soft Tops have become a go-to for the Axleboy team. “We believe that there is only one soft top company, and that’s Bestop.” Bestop, in partnership with The Shop, is proud to honor a “Jobber of the Month” each month — and this month it’s Axleboy Off Road.

In evaluating potential honorees for “Jobber of the Month”, Bestop considers the following: dedication to providing world-class service to the consumer and business partners, commitment to innovation, and involvement with the Jeep® and off-roading community.

Axleboy has come a long way from its early days, when Carline had $50 in his bank account. Now boasting 13,000 square feet, 18 employees, and thousands of happy customers, we are so thrilled to be honored as Bestop Jobber of the Month. Read more about what it means to be a Bestop Jobber here , and get in touch when you’re ready to learn more about Bestop products.

The post Axleboy Off Road Is July’s ‘Bestop Jobber Of The Month’ appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

A Definitive Guide to 4X4 Vehicles

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:58:00 GMT

When it comes to buying or building the 4×4 (also known as 4WD) vehicle you’ve been dreaming of, it’s important to know about your options. From the history of four-wheel drive to the current 4WD systems in vehicles today, there’s a lot to unpack.

We couldn’t have said it better than Wikipedia when it comes to defining four-wheel drive (4WD):

Four-wheel drive, also called 4×4 (“four by four”) or 4WD, refers to a two-axle vehicle drivetrain capable of providing torque to all of its wheels simultaneously. It may be full-time or on-demand, and is typically linked via a transfer case providing an additional output drive shaft and, in many instances, additional gear ranges.

The History of 4WD

There was once a time when 4WD was reserved only for vehicles like tractors and gun trucks that traveled primarily on off-road surfaces — specifically surfaces in France, where the 4×4 was initially created in the late 1800s.

It was a few years after that The Spyker was built. This is the first full-time four-wheel drive vehicle to be created. Caldwell Vale 4×4 trucks were introduced shortly after, boasting both four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering created by Felix and Norman Caldwell.

Around the middle of the 20th century, 4×4 vehicles saw a boom in popularity, with thousands of Jeeps being produced for use in World War II. It was also around this time that Ford created the F-series and Land Rover burst onto the scene. Over the next few decades, SUVs with 4WD hit the roads as consumers found more and more options to take their everyday drivers on or off the highways.

Different 4X4 Systems

These days, 4×4 vehicles commonly fall into four different categories: all-wheel drive (AWD), part-time AWD, part-time 4WD, and full-time 4WD.

Full-time 4WD: This system was the original iteration of 4×4 vehicles, with engine power being distributed equally to all four wheels at the same time. While these systems are capable of traveling on rugged services, they can tend to weigh down the vehicle.

Part-time 4WD: When your vehicle can alternate from 2WD to 4WD using a mechanical or an electronic switch, it has part-time 4WD. The only benefit to switching between the two is a marginal savings of fuel, but there’s no harm in leaving it in 4WD at all times.

It’s important to point out that there’s a fundamental difference between 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (AWD). While AWD can be used on dry pavement, 4WD requires a slippery surface so that the front and rear ends can match speed. If your 4X4 has the option for two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, it’s a smart idea to keep it in 4WD mode all the time on and off the road.

There are also part-time and full-time all-wheel drive systems similar to their 4WD counterparts. In some situations, AWD is much better in performance situations than 4WD but it depends on the vehicle type and size. This helps to clarify the difference between 4WD and AWD:

Here’s a comparative analogy for understanding the similarities and differences between all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD): Miller Lite is to tequila as all-wheel drive is to four-wheel drive. Both are meant to an end, but while beer and all-wheel drive are acceptable for everyday use (never at the same time, of course), tequila and four-wheel drive should be reserved for special occasions, when you need something stronger.

Beefing Up Your 4X4

Once you know more about 4X4s and you’ve settled on the vehicle you’ve been dreaming of, it’s time to visit our team of professionals to add modifications and enhancements that will take your vehicle to the next level.

As Missouri’s 4×4 go-to guys, we are constantly studying the latest trends and researching new-product manufacturers because we own the responsibility of providing our clients with the highest quality parts and most dependable service. To maintain that quality reputation, we have filled our shop with state-of-the-art equipment and the best mechanics in the midwest — contact us today to get started!

The post A Definitive Guide to 4X4 Vehicles appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Understanding Approach, Departure, and Breakover Angles

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 14:18:00 GMT

If you’re new to the world of 4WDing or you’re just starting your research into which vehicle you’d like, there’s likely been some mention of approach, departure, and breakover angles. Sure, there are other specs that you should consider, but these three angles are crucial. They all determine how much traction your tires will get when you’re off-roading.

Think about driving your vehicle onto an angled ramp. At a certain point, the ramp will be too steep for you to drive up without damaging the front end of your car. The same will be true for the rear end as you drive down. These are the basic fundamentals of approach, departure angles, and breakover angles.

What Is Approach Angle?

As you read above, an approach angle is the maximum upward angle of an inclined surface that your 4WD vehicle drives over. The bumper design and its overhang over the axis; rounded bumpers and higher ground clearance will give your vehicle a better chance of making it up steeper surfaces.

What Is Departure Angle?

Push the approach angle to the back of your vehicle and you have the departure angle. Referring to the angle of the surface you’re departing from, this angle is also determined by bumper choice and rear tire size.

What Is Breakover Angle?

Using the midpoint of the vehicle and the angles toward the back and front wheels, an apex is created called the breakover angle. If a vehicle travels over a surface high enough, the vehicle’s wheels will lose traction and even contact the road surface and cause it to tip or even turtle.

When you’re shopping for a new or used 4WD or Jeep, manufacturers will provide you with these angles. However, if you’re looking at vehicles that have mods like lift kits, larger tires, or customized bumpers, you can measure these angles easily with some simple math.

The measurement from the point where the front tire meets the ground to the lowest part of your car, which is usually the front bumper — that’s your approach angle. Do the same at the back of the vehicle with the tire and bumper to find your departure angle.

To calculate the breakover angle, you’ll need to know your vehicle’s ground clearance and wheelbase measurements. You can then use a handy online calculator like this one to figure out the breakover angle of your 4WD vehicle.

Why Are These Angles Important?

By now it’s clear to understand why you would want to know your angles, whether you’re off-roading or talking to us about modding your 4WD vehicle. Not only does watching your angels help improve the quality of the ride, but it also mitigates the chance that you could damage your ride. If you’d like to improve your angles, there are a few mods you could talk to us about.

Tires: It makes sense that taller tires will help improve clearance and breakover angles, but you may also need to make a few adjustments to your vehicle to make those tires work.

Lift: Okay, so you don’t want to make your tires bigger. You can get your vehicle lifted by professionals to improve clearance, but the keyword here is “professionals.”

Slimming Down: Could your 4WD vehicle stand to lose a little weight? Talk to our team about mods that could be removed or swapped out to reduce weight.

Armor: This won’t change your angles, but it’s a great way to protect the underside of your 4WD vehicle if you’re still unsure of your measurements.

What’s next? Come visit the pros! When you come to Axleboy for customization and modification to improve your angles, you’ll get the best service in town. That’s because we are the leading experts when it comes to anything 4WD and Jeep-related. We know which upgrades to recommend based on your usage and previous modifications. We’ll never steer you in the wrong direction!

The post Understanding Approach, Departure, and Breakover Angles appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Death Wobble: What Is It and How Is It Fixed?

Mon, 10 May 2021 18:39:00 GMT

If you’ve been driving a Jeep, 4×4, or truck for any amount of time, you’ve likely heard about and maybe even experienced the death wobble. It’s not just the shake or shimmy of your steering wheels when you go over a bump, either. Death wobble is an uncontrollable shaking of your entire vehicle, during which it feels like the driver might lose control at any second.

If you dive deep into Jeep and 4×4 forums and websites, you’ll find that many people believe certain vehicle years, types, and modifications make it more prone to experience this issue, but it can happen to any vehicle at any time, especially if the stock suspension has been altered or modified.

What Is Death Wobble?

What Causes Death Wobble?

Although it’s most likely suspension or steering issues that can cause death wobble, those are just a few contributing factors. Anything bent or broken on your vehicle can become an issue, and needs to be repaired or replaced ASAP. Even if parts are in new condition, improper installation can also present a problem.

While improper vehicle alignment can exacerbate issues, it can’t alone cause death wobble. It can, however, lead to several other issues with your vehicle, but that’s a different blog post entirely, so it still needs to be done regularly. The same can be said about unbalanced wheels and/or tires.

How to Handle Death Wobble

If you feel your vehicle shaking violently and think it may be going into a death wobble, don’t take your hands off the steering wheel. Grip lightly, pull over, and slow down to stop the death wobble or pull over and stop the car completely and safely. Avoid sudden movements (like jerking into a new lane or slamming on the brakes) as they can cause the vehicle to flip during the wobble.

How to Fix Death Wobble

When it comes to finding and repairing the source of the problem, it may be like putting together a puzzle. Several large and small parts make up the suspension and steering of your vehicle, so several areas need to be checked. Many experts say to start with the front track bar, which is notorious for causing imbalances that lead to death wobble.

From there, there are several other parts and attachment points that need to be thoroughly inspected by a mechanic with plenty of experience with Jeeps, 4x4s, and trucks. Relocation brackets, ball joints, tie-rod ends — the list is long, and these are areas of the vehicle that can only be accessed and repaired using professional tools and expertise.

How to Prevent Death Wobble

Simply put, you need to have an experienced mechanic maintain and repair your vehicle. While there are a handful of things you can DIY on your vehicle, suspension and steering repairs and modifications need to be tackled by a professional. You can ask them to install a steering stabilizer system, but that’s a temporary solution. Aside from being a very careful driver, the key to preventing death wobble is a consistently well-maintained vehicle.

We never sell anything we wouldn’t put on our own vehicle, especially when it comes to parts and repairs that help prevent death wobble in your Jeep, 4×4, or truck. When you come here, you know you’re getting the best parts on the market because we are very particular about what we carry.

You want the best for your beloved vehicle, and we deliver nothing but the best! Axleboy has been in business since 2004 and at our current location since 2016. Instead of having a rotating door of customers, we build long-lasting relationships with our valued clients. You’re much more than just a number to us. We’ll guide you through the customization process to ensure you get the right parts and upgrades for your driving lifestyle — contact us today to schedule appointment.

The post Death Wobble: What Is It and How Is It Fixed? appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

An Off-Roading Guide for Beginners

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 20:15:00 GMT

Has your 4×4 spent most of the time on the road? Are you ready to test it on the trails? If you’re planning your first off-road trip, or if it’s been a while since you’ve gotten some mud on your tires, it’s time to check out our off-roading guide.

Your off-roading adventures can be as tame or challenging as you want, from simple muddy trails to extreme rock crawling, but one thing remains the same about any trip you take: Safety and preparation go a long way towards making an off-roading trip a success. Beyond that, there are some fundamentals you need to know and we explore them in our off-roading guide below.

Talk the Talk

It seems obvious, but off-roading with your 4×4 is much different than driving a road-only vehicle. Understanding certain terms and phrases will help make sure your 4×4 is ready for any trail you throw at it.

4×4 high & low: The purpose of 4-wheel drive is to help the vehicle gain more traction on uneven surfaces like mud or gravel. Use 4×4 high gear for situations where you’re traveling over 15 miles per hour, while 4×4 low offers higher torque at lower speeds to help you get out of sticky situations.

Diff lock: The wheels on 4x4s generally spin at different speeds to help compensate for tricky terrain. Differential locking is when the wheels are “locked” into moving at the same speed, compensating for the loss of traction if one wheel is in the air or working harder than others to accelerate out of being stuck.

Wheelbase & wheel travel: Wheelbase refers to the distance from the center of the front tire to the center of the back tire on the same side; this number is important for steering and balance. Wheel travel is the measurement of the maximum distance a wheel can travel up and down; the bigger the number, the better the suspension.

Grab Your Gear

Along with knowing how to properly operate your 4×4, you also need to bring the right gear with you on the trails. You’ll definitely need a full gas tank, a tow rope, spare tire and jack, a first aid kit, and your phone — that’s the bare minimum. You could also benefit from recommended mods like a winch and a high-lift jack, along with LED headlights and a fire extinguisher.

If you’re unsure about which mods are right for your 4×4, make sure to ask the technician when you bring it in for regularly scheduled maintenance (something you also need to do before hitting the trails.) Their experience will help guide you in the right direction when it comes to mods. They’ll suggest the best solutions based on what you need for off-road success.

Remember These Tips

You know your basics, you got your gear, your 4×4 is properly modded out — now it’s time to test everything out with an off-road adventure. Keep these tips and best practices in mind when you’re tested on the trails.

Trail driving: Dry terrain and trails like gravel and dry dirt are the easiest trails for beginners. There are many designated 4×4 trails in state and federal parks. It’s a good idea to join a forum or do some research to find ones that are rated to your specific ability. Don’t try something more advanced than you (or your 4×4) are prepared to tackle.

Sand driving: Taking your 4×4 to a trail composed mostly of sand requires more skilled driving techniques compared to dirt. Remember that traction is much harder to find on the sand and keep the momentum up to avoid getting the tires stuck. If you do feel like tires are getting bogged down in the sand, turn the steering wheel left and right repeatedly, allowing tires to grip terrain and gain traction.

Mud driving: Mudding also requires a bit more advanced driving technique and it’s similar to driving in the sand — focus on traction and momentum. Showboating in the mud can lead to loss of vehicle control, which could send your front end straight into a tree or worse.

More difficult driving conditions require a bit more knowledge of special 4×4 driving techniques. This takes practice and patience, and group drives are a great way to learn from others while having the backup of a buddy to help tow you out in case you get stuck.

Armed with the knowledge of off-roading fundamentals and a 4×4 equipped with all the right mods, you’ll be hitting the trains in no time! Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team when you’re ready to start your 4×4 adventures and be sure to revisit this off-roading guide in the future.

The post An Off-Roading Guide for Beginners appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

4x4 Treading Lightly 101 with Scott Carline

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 11:21:47 GMT

In the seventh and final installment of our "Offroad 101" series, Scott covers the basics of treading lightly while offroading! He'll discuss why it's important to be respectful to the environment, shares the "three tries" rule, and shows how to create a spill kit to keep in your Jeep at all times.

4x4 Trail Repair Offroading 101 with Scott Carline

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 11:19:41 GMT

In the sixth installment of our "Offroad 101" series, Scott covers the basics of trail repair on your tires! He'll discuss two different scenarios of what could happen to your Jeep's tire on the trail, and demonstrate the most efficient ways to fix both a Kolbe valve and the sidewall in order for you to get back to camp safely.

4x4 The Rundown 101 with Scott Carline

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 13:08:47 GMT

Scott covers everything we've learned in our "Offroad 101" series in this synthesized version of his in-person class! Find out the essential tips and tools you'll need to know before taking your Jeep offroad.

4x4 Airing Down Offroading 101 with Scott Carline

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 14:42:30 GMT

In the fifth installment of our "Offroad 101" series, Scott covers the basics of airing down! He'll discuss why it's important to air down your jeep's tires when going offroad, share the PSI to aim for and demonstrate some techniques and tools used to efficiently air down your tires.

4x4 Safety and Safety Tools Offroading 101 with Scott Carline

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 14:37:28 GMT

In the fourth installment of our "Offroad 101" series, Scott covers the basics of safety! He'll discuss the basics of tips, techniques, and tools to stay safe with your Jeep while out on the trail. The video begins with how to properly communicate, and then breaks down the different types of straps and shackles, and how to safely use each.

4X4 Spring Maintenance Tips

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 15:46:00 GMT

The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and before you know it, you’ll be hitting the trails in your 4×4. Because your vehicle takes much more abuse than a typical car that does strictly highway driving, 4×4 spring maintenance is a must before you head off into the wilderness.

Is your 4X4 ready for adventure? Below are the 4X4 spring maintenance tasks you should tackle this season before you head off into a summer of off-roading fun.

Change the Oil

This tip is great for vehicles of all shapes and sizes, but especially for 4X4s. Off-roading puts a huge amount of stress on the engine when using lower gears increases torque — and wear and tear on your engine. Keeping the oil clean will help the engine perform more smoothly and with more power. The best way to know when to change your oil is by checking the owner’s manual and keeping up with scheduled oil changes as recommended.

Check the Tires

Balance checks and tire rotations are another part of 4X4 ownership. Front tires wear differently from back tires, so to keep the vehicle running smoothly tires should be rotated frequently. While your mechanic is at it, ask to have the tires balanced as well. Improper wear and tear on tires can lead to suspension issues, which are costly to repair.

Perform Alignment

How the tires align also impacts wear and tear, along with gas mileage, traction, and tread integrity. If your steering wheel pulls to one side or the other, it’s time to bring in your 4X4 for a realignment. Although misalignment could also be caused by uneven tire pressure, it’s worth it to have a professional take a look at things.

Check Fluids and Filters

Don’t even think about heading off-roading without checking and refilling fluids in your 4X4. The most important level to check is the oil; the last thing you want is to get stranded in the wide-open outdoors. Coolant levels are also important; top off windshield wiper fluid, too. Air filters that prevent contaminants from entering the engine need to be swapped out as well.

Inspect Brakes

Take a hose and rinse off your wheels to inspect the brakes/ Take a look at pads, calipers, and brake lines. Is there any damage or rust? Is your 4X4 making strange noises when you come to a stop? Brake failure can be catastrophic when you’re off-roading; if you see anything suspicious, it’s time to call a mechanic.

Clean Your 4X4

While you’re hosing off your wheels, why not clean the whole thing? Thoroughly wash and dry your 4X4 and all of your recovery gear, like your winch and tow line. Don’t miss the undercarriage, either. Thoroughly inspect all of the major parts and keep a close eye out for rust, dents, or damage.

Try Out the AC

After a long winter sitting, either outside or in a garage, the air conditioning in your 4X4 may not be ready to keep up with warm spring and summer weather. When the AC isn’t performing well, it can also cause stress on the engine and speed up wear and tear — not to mention being uncomfortable for drivers and passengers.

Invest In Mods

While addressing your 4×4 spring maintenance, talk to a mechanic about installing any mods that you’ve had your eye on during the winter or changing out winter-weather tires for a set that’s more appropriate for summer off-roading. The key here is allowing the experts to mod your 4X4 because they have the experience and tools to get it done right, the first time.

Our experienced team at Axleboy is always ready to welcome you and your vehicle. We value your business, and we want to share our passion for 4X4s with you. Also, it’s also our promise to provide you with courteous and helpful service. That’s why we provide our clients with trusted custom consulting.

One thing we know from our years in business is that every client is different. How you choose to drive your vehicle is different from the next person. And, there’s nothing wrong with that! We feel that’s one reason why it’s so special to own a 4X4. Ready to get your vehicle ready for a fun-filled spring and summer off-roading? Make an appointment today!

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Suspension Mods Offroading 101 with Scott Carline

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 14:34:11 GMT

In the second video of our "Jeeping 101" series, Scott covers the basics of axles and gears! He'll discuss why axles are the cornerstone to a well-constructed off-road vehicle, explain the math behind the ratios, and provide several examples of the different types of differentials.

Axles and Gears Offroading 101 with Scott Carline

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 14:28:06 GMT

Tires and Wheels Offroading 101 with Scott Carline

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 14:24:29 GMT

In the first video of our "Offroading 101" series, Scott covers the basics of offroad tires and wheels! He'll discuss the different types of tires and their intended purposes, pricing, and budget constraints, and show the standard sizes for each type.

4×4 Vehicle Buying Guide

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 16:23:00 GMT

All you need is a single ride in a 4X4 vehicle to understand the appeal of owning one, but if you’re new to the world of off-roading, you’ll need to do some research about the right vehicle for your lifestyle. While Jeeps are a go-to for the adventurous, it’s important to understand that there are plenty of other carmakers who have 4X4s vehicles in their lineups — we want to help you find the perfect fit.

The definition of a 4X4 vehicle is one that has four-wheel drive, where the engine sends equal power to all four wheels at the same time. Different from all-wheel drive, 4X4s offer on-demand modes to help adjust to off-road terrain after highway driving; this is a great feature for drivers who are looking for a versatile vehicle.

However, you should be considering different options if you’re wanting to use your 4X4 for rock climbing, trail riding, or mountain climbing and not highway road trips. Ask yourself this question:
“How do I want to use my 4X4?” The answer will help narrow down your choices and give dealers a better idea of what you’re looking for.

You’re also not limited to new vehicles. If your dream 4X4 is a brand-new model decked out with features, by all means, go for it, but if your budget is limited, you’ll be able to find a used vehicle in good condition. One bonus of going this route: You can mod out your used 4X4 vehicle to become that decked out off-roader of your dreams.

Before jumping into the research and buying process, you’ll need to know which factors matter the most when looking over a 4X4 vehicle.

Engine

This is probably the most crucial place to start. The size and makeup of the engine will determine how well it performs off-road. Take a look at torque and horsepower, if it’s turbocharged, and how many cylinders it has — more means better power but increased maintenance.

Spark Plugs

If you’re buying used, look closely at the spark plugs. Clean, dry, in-tact spark plugs mean that the 4X4 has been maintained and treated well. Steer clear of any residue or damage; that could mean serious problems elsewhere in the vehicle and become a much costlier investment than you had imagined.

Exhaust

Start up the car and see what smoke comes out if any. If it’s white, that could mean that your 4X4 may have a coolant leak. If it’s black, there’s an issue with the fueling system, and blue smoke shows that the vehicle is burning oil and needs to be inspected further.

Transmission

If you’ve ever had to replace the transmission in any kind of vehicle, you know how expensive it can be. When you test drive a 4X4, look for any jerking when you shift through gears and noises. Gears should shift easily and quietly.

Brakes and Steering

This is important to check on any vehicle you’re interested in buying, but especially for a 4X4 vehicle you’re thinking of taking on the trails. Sticky, spongy brakes are a problem, as is inconsistent, pulling, or stiff steering. These are sure signs that the 4X4 wasn’t well maintained or properly repaired.

Undercarriage

Either take the 4X4 for a mechanic’s inspection before purchasing or get under the vehicle with a flashlight. Look for cracks and rust; it can spread like wildfire and exist on the car where you can’t see it. Springs, shocks, and bushings also need to be inspected as well.

Mileage and Value

Even if you’re not planning on selling any time soon, a 4X4 is still an investment. High mileage on an off-road vehicle is much different than the same mileage on a highway driver — and it will be higher when you’re done with it. Brand, model, and features will also impact resale value for your 4X4.

Mod-ability

If you’re really interested in taking your 4X4 to the next level, you’ll want to mod it out to fit your needs. You should be able to mod out your new vehicle without having to invest in structural or engine repairs to get the installation right.

Ready to hit the road in a new-to-you 4X4? Whether you want to drive on rocky terrains, muddy trails, or a paved road, Axleboy is here to transform your vehicle. From a comprehensive consultation to installation, we do it all. Contact us if you’re ready to have your 4X4 customizations done by the most skilled and honest team in town.

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Top Off-Road Mods for 4x4s

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 20:29:00 GMT

We know you love Jeeps — we do too — but we also know that there are plenty of other 4x4s out there. Toyota, Chevy, Ford; the list of automakers that have at least one 4×4 in their lineup goes on and on, but the fun of off-roading remains the same. Regardless of your preference, you still need a handful of off-road mods for 4x4s to make sure they’re ready for off-road adventures.

Winch

Before you get any other mod installed on your 4×4, invest in a winch — seriously. Sure, it will help your buddies get unstuck, but it also may help save lives at one point. There is a range of options based on quality and price, but don’t overlook the importance of having a professional installing it.

Tires

How extreme do you want to get in your 4×4? Your answer will help you decide what kind of tires you need, but go with all-terrain tires if you’re not planning on getting too crazy. You could get mud or hybrid tires with tread patterns that will dig through the elements, or a set of hybrids that work for highway driving, too.

Full-Size Spare Tire

On that note, you’ll need an extra full-size spare tire on board. Even with the highest quality tires on your 4×4, you never know what mother nature can throw at you and whether or not a spare can handle the challenge. Stability and traction control are also impacted when all the tires aren’t the same size. Don’t forget the tools to change those tires!

If you’re offroading, it’s not a matter of if your 4×4 will get stuck, but a matter of when. Your 4×4 needs front and rear tow points. Even better, put one at every corner, and make sure that it is forged and able to allow for loop-style tows. The bumpers can also be upgraded to include tow points with removable shackles for easier use.

Recovery Straps

What good are tow points without straps? While there are plenty of options, not all are created equal in terms of functionality and quality. Kinetic straps stretch up to 30% of their original length and reduce jerking that can harm your 4×4 or gear. Traditional nylon tow ropes are better for rescues in confined spaces, but don’t use them for a yank tow.

Auxiliary Lights

Tackling off-road trails at night takes more than just headlights, even if they are LED. Mod out your 4×4 with auxiliary lighting like light bars or flood and cube lights to illuminate your path and keep you safe. Remember: A lumen count signifies brightness; the higher the lumen, the brighter the bulb.

Suspension Kits

Off-roading can be rough on your 4×4, but it shouldn’t be rough on your back. Get a quality suspension kit to help improve the ride for driver and passengers and create clearance that will prevent rough terrain from tearing up your vehicle. Air suspension can allow the driver to raise or lower the vehicle as needed for those that do highway driving as well.

Skid Plate

Off-roading exposes your 4×4’s undercarriage to all sorts of elements that can damage your radiator, engine pan, and drive train. Getting a skid plate installed adds a buffer that will let you have peace of mind on even the roughest trails.

Roof Rack

Where will you store your offroading gear when your 4×4 is full of passengers? On the roof, of course! A high-quality, professionally-installed roof rack will allow you to max out the capacity inside with added storage on top. That way you can pack more and stay out on the trails even longer.

Rocker Protection

Rocker panels are the strong metal pieces that run along your 4×4 from the front tire to the back, on each side. Rocker guards are made of steel plates that are fit to the contours of your vehicle and protect the structural and aesthetic integrity.

However you decide to mod out your 4×4, make sure to bring it to an experienced professional. Our full-service automotive facility and team of experts are constantly studying the latest trends and researching new-product manufacturers. We own the responsibility of providing our clients with the highest quality parts and most dependable service — get in touch.

The post Top Off-Road Mods for 4x4s appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

What Every New Jeep Owner Should Know

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 16:26:00 GMT

Congratulations on becoming a new Jeep owner — welcome to the family! Whether it’s the newest model off the lot or a well-maintained, pre-loved Jeep, owning one of these vehicles opens up a whole new world for outdoors enthusiasts, overlanders, and even daily commuters. Along with getting your dream car, your Jeep also brings with it several perks so if you’re a new Jeep owner be prepared to take some notes.

Work The Wave

If you’ve ever passed another Jeep on the roads, you likely know the “Jeep Wave.” It’s a special hand signal that carries with it great responsibility and storied history. Some theorize that it was developed by war-era Jeep drivers to differentiate allies from enemies. Others believe that the wave is a symbol of civilian Jeep ownership and recognition of good taste.

There are rules for the wave, too. Initiating the wave is based on the Jeep model hierarchy, and waving has to continue until the other Jeep passes by. Most importantly — Jeep owners have the obligation to return the wave and keep the tradition alive for the next generation.

Jump Into Jamborees

Jeep Jamborees started as an organized Jeep event in 1953, with a trek through the Sierra Nevada mountains in California. You and your family can join any number of Jamborees scheduled around the country to learn more about Jeep ownership and network with other owners and enthusiasts.

Experienced guides help even the newest Jeep drivers navigate through trails that exemplify the benefits of owning a Jeep. Jamborees are created to suit a range of skill and experience levels and attendees of any age.

Join A Jeep Club

You don’t have to look far to find local, regional, and state Jeep clubs and an endless supply of forums to join as well. While there is no substitution for hands-on experience, talking to other Jeep owners can point you in the right direction and offer some great first-person advice.

If you’re looking to mod your new Jeep, try joining a niche Facebook group where you can trade or barter or parts, or make connections with local Jeep experts who can walk you through the modification process. This is a great place to go for references on local mechanics, a must-have (see below).

Find A Good Mechanic

Keeping your new Jeep looking and driving like the day you got it means starting a relationship with a mechanic you can trust. Even though Jeeps are reliable and durable, fixing them properly takes extensive knowledge and experience.

Ongoing care and maintenance are especially important if you’re planning to spend time offroading in your new Jeep. Trails can be tough on your ride, but simple, regular tune-ups with the experts will spot any potential problems and prevent them from becoming more serious, mechanical issues.

Mod It Out

One of the biggest advantages of owning a Jeep is that the customization options are endless. There’s no shortage of mods available to help you create a vehicle that’s perfect for your lifestyle — regardless of whether you prefer on-road or off-road Jeep driving.

Find a local team that will help you find the best mods at the right price, and even install and maintain them. This shouldn’t be just any shop; some people simply sell Jeep upgrades and then there are experts who know exactly what you should and should not do and why.

Have Fun and Relax!

Living in a Jeep world is all about having fun. Explore with your Jeep, connect with other owners and enthusiasts, and have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle’s maintenance and mods are being handled by professionals who know what your Jeep needs.

As Missouri’s Jeep go-to guys, we are constantly studying the latest trends and researching new-product manufacturers because we own the responsibility of providing our clients with the highest quality parts and most dependable service. To maintain that quality reputation, we have filled our shop with state-of-the-art equipment and the best mechanics in the midwest.

If you find yourself in need of a 4×4 mechanic to help you with a few modifications, look no further than Axleboy. We lead the way when it comes to high-quality custom Jeep modifications, 4×4 modifications, and upgrades. Schedule a consultation to learn more about popular upgrades from a leading expert.

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Top Jeep Mods for Winter Weather

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 22:44:00 GMT

Winter weather is knocking at our doors here in St. Louis, and now is the time to mod out your Jeep to prepare. Just because the snow is falling, doesn’t mean your adventures should stop! Here are the top winter Jeep mods our team recommends to get ready.

Safety First

Before we dive into our recommendations, it’s important to know that even the greatest winter Jeep mods aren’t a substitute for safe driving. Brush up on the basics before you head out into a winter wonderland.

Now For The Mods

Tires

Solid skill is one pillar of safe winter driving, but without the right tires in place, those skills won’t mean much. Bald, worn tires won’t have the traction you need to stop carefully and safely. Look for winter-specific (and not just off-road) tire replacements with thicker, studded treads. This allows you to stop your jeep safely, improve turning, and create better acceleration.

Hard Top

Who wants to be stuck in a freezing-cold Jeep with just a soft top to protect you from the elements? (Spoiler alert: nobody.) Upgrade to a high-quality hardtop that keeps the cold and moisture out, and inspect it before every seasonal installation. If you notice any cracks or damage to the weather stripping, get in touch with a professional to have it repaired.

Grille Guard

Regardless of the season, modding your Jeep with a grille guard can go a long way to protect it from front-end damage. That’s especially true in snow, where it’s much easier to slip and slide. Grill guards will add another layer of strong protection between your Jeep and anything you may run into should you lose control and end up hitting something head-on.

Chains

Tire chains are a low-tech mod that hasn’t been innovated in decades — and for good reason. Heavy semi-trucks and tractor-trailers use them, so why shouldn’t your Jeep? Your local Jeep mechanic will show you how to use them, and in many cases it’s quite easy to do. Chains provide even more traction beyond a good set of tires. recommend

Winch

Again, this is an all-season mod that shows its muscle during the winter. Winches allow you to slowly and carefully get your Jeep unstuck, something that a two-strap can’t do without causing significant damage. Winches also offer adjustable length (often up to 100 feet) which allows the recovery vehicle to stay on solid land (or snow) while helping to pull you out of a jam.

Tune-Up

You already know regular maintenance helps a Jeep last forever, but you should take special care to have it checked over before going out in the snow. Ask your experienced Jeep mechanic to take a close look at your 4WD, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve used the feature. Having your vehicle lock up on the trails is a bummer.

Ready to head out into the snow, slush, and ice? Don’t do anything without bringing your Jeep to us here at Axleboy. We’ll let you know which winter Jeep mods you’ll need to max out on off-road (and on-road) fun and make sure you get the best quality at the best price. We’ll tune up your Jeep to make sure all systems are a go — call us for an appointment before the snow gets too deep!

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The Definitive Guide to Famous Jeeps

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 19:51:00 GMT

Last month, to celebrate Jeep’s 80th anniversary, we dove into the illustrious history of the Jeep. This month, we want to highlight some of the most famous Jeeps — with owners that include authors and presidents, and cameos in iconic films and TV shows. Here are our top picks.

The good news? You don’t need to be a celebrity or major movie producer to get your hands on a Jeep that people remember. Our team lives the Jeep lifestyle and will work with you to customize your vehicle so that it’s worthy of its time in the spotlight. We lead the way when it comes to high-quality custom Jeep modifications, 4×4 modifications, and upgrades. Schedule a consultation to learn more about popular upgrades from a leading expert.

The Author

Although J.D. Salinger is best known for his novel The Catcher in the Rye released in 1951, what you may not have known is that he was also a storied and devoted Jeep owner. His love of the brand began during World War II when he was drafted to fight in the Army, and it’s said that he would keep a portable typewriter in the back of his Jeep to work on his writing. After Salinger became famous for his writing — much of which drew on his wartime experience — he headed to New Hampshire, where he was often spotted cruising around in his curtained Jeep.

The President

Ronald Reagan was a household name long before he became the 40th president of the US. He was working as an actor when he put his career on pause in 1942 to enter the Army Reserve, where he became a captain and drove Jeeps as a part of his daily duties. Over 30 years later, as the Governor of California, he would roam around his nearly 700-acre ranch in a blue 1983 CJ-8 Scrambler (a gift from wife Nancy) bearing the “GIPPER” license plate. It was the same vehicle that was used to show Mikhail Gorbachev around the ranch, and today the Jeep is on display at a public museum in Santa Barbara, California.

The Moonshiners’ Cousin

There’s no shortage of iconic cars that appeared in the TV Series The Dukes of Hazzard, but one that sticks out to us the most is Daisy’s 1980 Jeep CJ-7 Golden Eagle nicknamed Dixie. Several of the same models were used throughout the filming of the show, and there was little continuity with the design or even the transmission over the years — but that didn’t stop Dixie (and Daisy) from being burned into the memories of viewers. Fun fact: the Jeeps used in filming were leased by American Motors Corporation with the repayment being a closing-credits mention.

The Time Traveler

Great Scott! Not one, but two Back to the Future films featured Jeeps. The first time the vehicle appeared was in the flagship film released in 1985 when Marty McFly held on to the back of a CJ-7. Four years later, the sequel predicted a new method of off-roading when a 1988 Wrangler YJ took off flying in what was supposed to be the year 2015. While Jeeps may have come a long way between then and now, we’re not quite ready to take flight in our YJs (unless you count getting air on sweet jumps).

The Dino-Park Rangers

When you look at the 1992 Jeep Wrangler YJ Sahara, you can almost hear the Jurassic Park theme song. It’s almost instantly recognizable as the Jeep that ran to and from prehistoric creatures roaming the sprawling amusement park gone very wrong. We can’t say for certain that Jeeps helped make the movie franchise a blockbuster success, with additional flicks adding to the long-running popularity of the original and the sequels — but it’s safe to say that there isn’t any other vehicle out there that could stand up to a T-Rex the way that Sahara did.

The Zombie Hunters

Since The Walking Dead started in 2010, the immensely popular zombie apocalypse show has featured a range of Jeeps including Cherokees and Wranglers alike. From the 1979 Cherokee used in the early seasons to the Wranglers with rugged tires that are used to run away from and destroy zombies, it seems like Jeep makes an appearance in nearly every episode of the series — but you better catch a glimpse before the show ends its run in 2022.

The post The Definitive Guide to Famous Jeeps appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

The History of the Jeep

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 15:33:00 GMT

If you’ve been too busy unplugging and offroading in your Jeep, it’s likely that you haven’t seen pictures of the models being released next year to celebrate the brand’s 80th anniversary. We’re pretty excited about these new vehicles — which you should now be able to request from the dealership — but how exactly did the Jeep brand become what it is today, 80 years later? Let’s take a look back at the history of the Jeep.

When the US became involved in World War II, the Army reached out to dozens of companies to create a four-wheel drive vehicle. Of those companies, only two were up for the job — American Bantam Car Company and Willys-Overland. The Bantam prototype was created first, after only 4 days of development, and the vehicle was designed to be assembled from car parts already in production.

Although the Army liked the Bantam prototype, the company couldn’t produce the volume of vehicles that were needed. The design was then sent to Willys and carmaker Ford, which resulted in similar prototypes; the Willys design evolved into what we now know of as a Jeep and became widely used by all branches of the US Military.

When the war ended, Willys started thinking about how to incorporate the Jeep into civilian life. The company produced the Willys CJ-2A along with a station wagon built completely of steel. They also released the 1947 Jeep pickup. While these were popular vehicles, the bulk of Jeeps were manufactured and sold as a part of military contracts.

Willys-Overland was purchased by Kaiser Manufacturing Co. in 1953, and 10 years later the company’s name was changed to Kaiser-Jeep Corp. In 1969, the company was acquired by American Motors Corporation (AMC). It was under this ownership that the XJ Cherokee was created and produced, and in 1984 the SUV was deemed innovative and somewhat revolutionary for its unibody design.

Head of Chrysler, Lee Iacocca, had long been a fan of the Jeep and purchased AMC for $1.5 billion in 1987. As SUVs became more popular and Chrysler’s bottom line grew, Daimler AG took notice and merged with Iacocca’s company in 1998. While this move helped to shine a spotlight on the Jeep brand, it also was the era of the Jeep Compass and Patriot — the outcasts of the Jeep vehicle line.

After struggling with what some people claim is the “Jeep Curse,” Chrysler (and Jeep) filed for bankruptcy in 2009 — but Fiat came to the rescue. Fiat CEO, Sergio Marchionne, understood the history of and love for Jeeps and worked hard to revive the vehicle line.

Along with improving the Compass and Patriot, Marchionne beefed up the Grand Cherokee with internal tweaks and optimized powertrain. He also replaced the hugely unpopular Liberty with a reimagined Jeep Cherokee. Fiat also added the Renegade and a Wrangler pickup truck and brought back the idea of re-introducing the Wagoneer. Since being acquired by Fiat, the Jeep brand has been breaking production and shipping records left and right.

Just recently, Jeep has made several announcements about how they’ll be celebrating its 80th anniversary. The Grand Wagoneer concept has been announced along with a hybrid plug-in, both arriving in the model year 2022. We’re most excited about the upgraded 2021 Wrangler and the exciting new features it offers. Here’s what to expect according to The Torque Report:

The big tech upgrade for the 2021 Wrangler is a new TrailCam, which is a forward-facing camera that lets you know what’s in front of you via the 8.4-inch touchscreen, which is accessed through the available Off-road Pages. The Wrangler Rubicon also gets an Off-Road Plus mode that adjusts the throttle, transmission shift points and traction control. There are two more USB ports to charge your phone and a Select Tire Fill Alert system is now standard with 7- and 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreens and is also included in the Technology Group.

Whatever the future holds for Jeep, there’s one thing we know for sure: The best part of owning one, however old or new it may be, is modding it out to be the Jeep of your dreams. Our experts live the Jeep life and know exactly what it takes to mod your Jeep and keep it running for (maybe) another 80 years. Why not celebrate the history of YOUR Jeep with some professional upgrades? Get in touch!

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How to Buy and Maintain a Used Jeep

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 14:38:00 GMT

One of the best ways to become a Jeep owner while on a budget is buying a used one. While it’s important to do your research before buying any pre-owned car, investing in a used Jeep will take a little more legwork — especially if it has been on off-road adventures with its previous owner.

Below are some great tips for buying and maintaining a pre-owned Jeep and getting the most out of your investment.

Buying a Used Jeep

Check these areas closely when looking to buy a used Jeep.

Undercarriage: The undercarriage and frame of a Jeep are the “bones” of the vehicle. Steer clear of rust or rot that could indicate bigger problems down the road. For off-roading Jeeps, check skid plates, which are installed to protect from hazards on the trail. Visible wear on skid plates means the vehicle was likely taken on lots of adventures and would indicate wear on the frame (and other parts) as well.

Tires: Jeep tires can be costly to replace, especially if they’re used for off-roading. Carefully check the tread and wear on the tires during an inspection: If the front tires are more worn than the back, they weren’t rotated properly or frequently enough. Uneven tread on all tires, either down the middle or on the edges, could be a sign of an alignment problem — which can’t be fixed by a simple rotation or tire replacement.

Rust: If you’re buying a Jeep from a local seller or dealer in the St. Louis area, expect to see a little rust from winter weather and salt treatments on the roads. However, off-roading vehicles that were exposed to the elements without being cared for properly will show large, extensive rust spots. If that rust spreads to the floorboards or door and window frames, you could have a bigger problem on your hands.

Leaks: In any car, leaks can indicate issues with the engine, transmission, or other major systems. Check for puddles of oil or coolant under the Jeep, inspect the hoses for cracks, and start up the car to look for leaks as it’s running. This is especially important for Jeeps; all it takes is a particularly rocky off-roading trip to cause damage that will lead to hose leaks or engine cracks.

Modifications: This is probably the most important area to look at when buying a pre-owned Jeep. Because mods aren’t installed by the factory, it’s crucial to check that they were installed correctly — and if you don’t know what correct installation looks like, you should be having a professional check them out before making a purchase. Some mods are cosmetic, but many (like the suspension) impact the overall performance of the vehicle. If you’re new to the world of modded Jeeps altogether, it may be a good idea to buy one without any add-ons and learn as you go by working with a team of pro installers.

Maintaining a Used Jeep

Any car needs proper and regular maintenance to keep it on the road longer and running the way it should, and that’s no different for Jeeps. At the top of your to-do list should be regular oil changes; this process should also include changing out of the old oil filters too. You can DIY this maintenance task to save a little cash, but just ensure that you’re not waiting too long in between changes.

Other tasks that you can do yourself include changing out the wipers as they wear out, replace interior lights or upgrade to LED versions, clean and care for the interior and treat the leather to protect against fading or cracking, and keep the tires properly maintained.

Bigger jobs are best left to the professionals. Tire replacement and rotation require plenty of garage space and specialized tools that many owners don’t generally have on-hand. The same can be said for replacing brakes, belts, hoses, or other components of major systems. Modifications should definitely be installed by qualified and experienced professionals — getting this wrong could impact the value and performance of your Jeep.

There’s a reason Jeeps retain their value over the years, and the right research and maintenance can help you find and keep the right pre-owned vehicle. Get in touch with our Jeep experts during your search if you have questions, and don’t hesitate to bring your new-to-you Jeep to our shop when you’re ready to maintain or mod it out.

The post How to Buy and Maintain a Used Jeep appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Top Mods for Jeeps

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 19:38:00 GMT

We might be a little biased, but becoming a Jeep owner is a pretty exciting event to be celebrated. Whether your Jeep is brand new or just new to you, there are a lot of top mods for Jeeps you should consider adding to your new vehicle. There’s a long list of modifications you can choose, and it can get overwhelming to understand which are best for beginners. Luckily, our team of experts can help guide you through the process of customizing your new ride.

The first step to deciding what mods to invest in is deciding how much time you’ll spend off-roading or if your Jeep will be a daily driver — or a little of both. This is important information to share with us; it will let us know what mods to suggest. If any of these mods are already a part of your new Jeep, you’ll need to let us inspect them for any damage and replace them if necessary.

Floor Liners

Simply put, you’re going to be spending a lot of time inside your Jeep rolling through the great outdoors. You’ll want to keep things clean, and factory floor liners won’t cut it. You’ll need some custom liners that stand out to elements that you bring in when you’re done exploring outside of your Jeep.

Carpeted mats are great for resisting stains and preventing damage from everyday use. Up your game with rubber mats that have grooves to trap mud, snow, and moisture from rain. Opt for the heavy-duty versions with an outer “lip” to contain what you bring in, whether it’s in the front seat or the back, or the cargo area. Bonus — these are the liners that can be easily cleaned with a simple hose-down.

Seat Covers

Along with protecting the floors in your Jeep, you’ll also want to protect the seats. Remember that you won’t always have a roof to cover up from elements like UV rays, wind, and the surprise rain shower. Over time, this can wreak havoc on your seats and covers can prevent you from having to replace the entire seat altogether.

Another great advantage of getting seat covers is the ability to add your custom touch with different colors or designs. Covers are commonly made of fabrics like polyester or nylon and can even add storage options to the seats with add-on bags or pockets, something that can come in handy when you’re looking to haul gear for overlapping.

Bumpers

Those plastic factory bumpers that come with your Jeep? They’re essentially just for looks. If you were to get into a collision, they won’t do too much to protect the body of your jeep from further damage. Heavy-duty front and rear bumpers , on the other hand, should be one of the first mods you ask our team about — even if your Jeep will be a daily driver. This is also another mod that will give you a chance to customize the look of your Jeep. There are a variety of aftermarket bumper styles that are cost-efficient:

Your Axleboy expert will help you decide which bumper style is right for your Jeep.

More Mods to Consider

There’s no end to the ways you can modify your new Jeep, and while the above list covers some of the most common, there are also a few smaller mods to think about if you’re just getting started.

When it comes to choosing modifications for your new Jeep, don’t guess — work with the Axleboy team to make sure you get the experience and expertise needed so the right mods are installed, the first time!

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Summer Off-Road Adventures

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 20:23:00 GMT

Summer is just around the corner, and that means the whole family can pile into the Jeep for some off-road adventures in the sun. But before you do that, it’s a smart idea to talk to our team of professionals about which modifications would be best for your vehicle.

Whether you’re looking to stay close to the St. Louis area or thinking about exploring other parts of the country that may be a little further away, here are some of the best off-road destinations for your summer travel plans.

Near St. Louis

St. Joe State Park

St. Joe is one of just two off-road vehicle parks in the Missouri park system and offers a variety of trails for a range of off-road vehicles. There are also a handful of outdoor activity attractions including four lakes, two swimming beaches, horse riding trails, hiking, biking, and campsites.

Potawatomi

Pruit Mountain Adventures

Pruit Mountain is located in Caledonia and is one of the tallest mountains in the Ozark Mountain range. The park, which is open to all vehicle types, offers 900 acres of various terrain from steep hills to open fields, and also allows camping in certain areas.

Flat Nasty Off-Road Park

Flat Nasty is about two hours from St. Louis and has over 850 acres of off-road trails with amazing views of the Ozark Mountains. This is a popular off-road destination and camping is permitted, plus there’s a log cabin on the premises that’s available to rent.

Moonlight Racing

Located in Sullivan, Moonlight Racing offers over 12 miles of off-roading fun for you, your friends, and your family. There are various types of terrain to tackle with your ATV, UTV, dirtbikes, and most importantly 4×4’s. There’s even a repair shop available in case any parts need to be fixed or replaced.

The Rest of the State

Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch

The Ranch is located about five miles south of Seymour, MO on HWY K. There are miles trails ranging from level 1 easy to level 6 hardcore across over 940 acres, giving every skill level a challenge — new trails are cut daily.

Rush Springs Ranch

All vehicle types and experience levels are welcome at this 70+ acre ranch in Pineville, MO. The ranch also boasts 28 campsites with hookups and 12 rustic cabins plus four boathouse cabins and even offers Jeep driving lessons.

Across The US

Byrd’s Adventure Center

Mojave Road

This east-west route in Arizona and California is rough and sandy and roads can become slick, muddy, and impassable after rains. All vehicles operating within Mojave National Preserve must be street-legal in accordance with California DMV requirements.

Washington Backcountry

June through September is the best window for this route and takes most people about five to six days to complete. There are some easy alternate sections to get around difficult stretches with great camp spots along the way for those looking to rough it.

Alpine Loop

Rubicon Trail

There’s a reason that Jeep devoted a whole line of vehicles to this California trail. It’s moderately difficult and better for experienced riders who won’t be upset should a little damage occur as a recreational hazard.

Magruder Road Corridor

Starting outside Elk City, Idaho, this trail takes around two days to travel on the way to Montana. Along the way, you’ll have great views of a variety of landscapes and opportunities to camp.

White Rim Trail

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Jeep Spring Maintenance Tips

Mon, 11 May 2020 15:48:00 GMT

Whether you’ve been using your Jeep all winter or it’s been waiting patiently in the garage for warmer weather, it’s time to get it ready to hit the road this spring. Your Jeep is an investment, and it’s important to keep it well-maintained so you’re not stuck on the side of the trail when you go off-roading this year, so be sure to check out these Jeep spring maintenance tips!

Get It Clean

Whether you DIY your car washing or have it detailed by a pro, you can’t skip this step before you go back out on the road. Snow means salt, and that means residue that can damage your Jeep. Make sure your exterior cleaning is thorough enough to clean off the residue; it can eat away at the paint and eventually lead to corrosion.

Don’t overlook the undercarriage — this needs a high-pressure washdown too. If your fenders are messy and gunked up, consider upgrading to a set of off-road fenders. When you’re done cleaning off the mess, head to your headlights. Well-lit trails and roadways are key to staying safe, and if you can’t get your headlights clean it’s time for a replacement.

Check Things Out

Now that your Jeep is thoroughly clean, it’s time to get down to the nuts and bolts of maintenance.

Think About Modifications

Now is a great time to make an appointment to upgrade your Jeep with custom modifications.

Are you ready to take on spring in your Jeep? Follow the checklist of maintenance tips above and get ready to hit the road! If you need a fresh set of eyes or you’re looking for modifications, we’re your team. Get in touch!

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DIY Jeep Projects

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 18:41:00 GMT

Whether you’re brand-new to DIY Jeep projects or you’ve been tinkering for quite a while, there are some easy tweaks you can do in your garage or out on the open road while trekking. We hate to tell you, but it’s probably a good time to tackle that garage cleaning and organization project you’ve been putting off. You’ll want to have full access to your tools and space before working on your Jeep.

There are plenty of big modifications that are much better left to the professionals — like lift kit installs, new wheels, and the addition of a recovery winch. That doesn’t mean you can’t get your hands dirty on your own when you aren’t able to make it to the shop during these times. Just because you’re social distancing, doesn’t mean you have to distance yourself from your Jeep!

Start With the Basics

Change Your Jeep’s Oil

Although this is really a great job for your qualified Jeep mechanic, changing your own oil is a temporary solution in a pinch. For the beginner DIY-er, the owner’s manual will be the best source of information regarding how much oil, what kind, and how often to change it. Once you get to know what’s under your hood, it’s easy to break down the oil change process.

It’s All in the Detail(ing)

Take advantage of the fresh spring air and spend some time detailing your Jeep. Whether it’s the grease and oil from on-roading or the accumulation of mud and dirt from off-roading, a good thorough washing is always the best first step in the detailing process. Pay close attention to the wheels and use specialty brushes to safely clean all of those nooks and crannies.

After washing, clean the windows, defog the headlights, and clean the brake lights. If you’re really feeling ambitious, you can also clean your soft top and its windows. One warning here — don’t use any cleaners with alcohol or ammonia on them as these solutions can dry out the plastic.

Check Out the Bits and Pieces

Washing and maintenance will give you a much better idea of any parts that are broken, missing, or worn out. Now’s the time to fix that loose handlebar or tighten up the bolts on your roof rack. You’ll never know when a small issue becomes a big problem when you’re out on the road.

You don’t need your Jeep to leave the garage to upgrade it, but when you are ready for a major mod, we’re ready to help. As a reputable custom Jeep shop, we go above and beyond for our clients. It’s our goal to build a long-lasting relationship with you. We lead the way when it comes to high-quality custom Jeep modifications, 4×4 modifications, and upgrades. Schedule a consultation to learn more about popular upgrades from leading experts.

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Women in the Automotive Industry

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 20:58:00 GMT

It’s a simple fact: The automotive industry and the world of auto repair have long been dominated by men — but that doesn’t mean women haven’t played a significant role. Unfortunately, their stories are rarely told so it’s hard to understand how important they have been throughout the decades. To celebrate Women’s History Month, we take a look at a few who have had an impact.

Bertha Benz 1849-1944

Recognize Bertha’s last name? That’s right, she was the wife and business partner of automobile pioneer Karl Benz — German engineer, inventor, and credited as the creator of what’s dubbed as “the first practical motorcar”.

When they got married in 1872, he used her dowry as financial support to build his first horseless carriage in 1855. Bertha tested these prototypes and her help led to the additions of wire insulation and the invention of leather brake pads. She also financed the development of the Motorwagen, but the laws at the time prevented her from holding the patent or credit of inventor as a married woman.

In 1888, Bertha embarked on the first cross-country automobile journey in a Motorwagen Model III for a trip that lasted about 66 miles. She wanted to prove to her husband (and the world) that she had contributed to a lifechanging invention and helped create financial success. Bertha, for all intents and purposes, also started the practice of test drives within the automotive industry. In 2008, the Bertha Benz Memorial Route was established to mark and celebrate her journey.

Florence Lawrence 1886-1938

With a name like that, it’s only natural that Florence was destined to become an actress known as “The First Movie Star.” While she became famous for appearing in over 300 movies throughout her lifetime, her enthusiasm for the automotive industry was less renowned.

Florence had become increasingly frustrated with not knowing what direction the driver ahead of her was planning to turn, and had witnessed too many traffic accidents not to take action. She created what she named “auto-signaling arms” which used flags on either side of the automobile that could be raised and lowered at the push of a button. This feature evolved into the turn signal, which eventually became mandatory on modern vehicles.

She then went on to invent a sign for the back of the car that had the word “STOP” painted on it, which warned automobiles when the driver in front of them was slowing down. The sign was triggered by the brake pedal and evolved into what is now the brake light. Florence never patented these inventions and withdrew from public life before passing away tragically in 1938.

Mary Anderson 1866-1953

Mary was an Alabama native who, at 23, began her career as a real estate developer by building an apartment complex in Birmingham before moving to California to start a cattle ranch and vineyard. She eventually returned to Alabama and lived out her life in the same apartment complex she built years earlier.

However, it was a trip to New York City in 1903 that cemented her position in the International Inventors Hall of Fame. Mary noticed that the driver of the streetcar she was in had a hard time keeping snow and ice off the front windshield. She began her sketches right there and then for a wiper device that would be able to clean the outside, but be operated from the inside of the car.

Eventually, Mary came up with a prototype that worked, made of wood and rubber and attached to a lever near the steering wheel of the vehicle. When the lever was pulled, the wipers moved back and forth to wipe away snow, rain, and sleet, and they could be removed and stored during the summertime. Mary patented her invention but it was largely ignored by the automotive industry and expired; however, Cadillac was the first manufacturer to adopt the design as standard equipment.

There’s not enough room in this blog post to tell the stories of the many, many women who helped shape the automotive industry, but these three help highlight their significant contributions. Here at Axleboy, we’re doing our part to highlight how women shaped the past — and will impact the future of the industry as well. That’s why we started AxleGirl, an all-women, hands-on training day that allows women to ask questions about their Jeeps and organize rides together.

This program gives ladies the opportunity to become comfortable with their Jeeps. If you want to participate in AxleGirl, get in touch with our team!

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Axleboy 4 Wheel Consultant Case Study

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 12:40:43 GMT

I got right into more hardcore jeeping and I began upgrading and I started the process by subscribing to all the Jeep magazines, reading all the reviews, picking all the stuff that they said was the best. I ended up buying a lot of that stuff, suspension lift, bumpers, winch, and all those kinds of things, installing it myself, put a lot of armor on the Jeep, and tended to take trails beyond my ability and started breaking a lot of stuff. And Scott was really good about giving me advice without telling me what to do, and he wasn't selling me anything. He was just sharing a lot of years of experience in both off-roading and mechanics.

My team here at Axleboy Offroad, we really focus on complete full service start to finish. In Drew's case, he ships his Jeep out to Moab, Utah, wheels for a couple of weeks, ships it back. Now we take care of most of that for him. It gets picked up here. It gets delivered back here. We do a pre-four-wheeling inspection where we go over it, make sure everything is good to go, and then when he brings it back, we look for any damage or any consequential items that may have happened and get it ready to go back home.

One of the things we like to do is really consult and find out, how are they going to use their Jeep? What are they going to do? Are they going to go four-wheeling out in Colorado, or Moab, Utah, or are they going to be doing muddy trails and hill climbs out in Illinois in the Pittsfield area? Or maybe down in Southern Missouri in the Ozark mountains doing some of the rocky trails down there?

Each one of those might be built a different way, and then of course that person's driving style, do they like to use a lot of throttle? Are they a finesse driver? One of the things that we see is when customers come up with their own ideas, what will happen is they'll build whatever the magazine article told them to build. Our magazine articles, our TV shows, they're all going to install whatever people are paying them to put on, and of course they're going to say great things. What we're doing is we're actually tried and proven. We're putting them on vehicles. We process somewhere around 47 Jeeps a week here. With that kind of buildup and that kind of volume pumping through, we have a pretty good idea about what's going to work and what's not.

So we'd been working with Drew and consulting with him for about 11 years now. His first Jeep he had built by the dealer in the beginning. And as we discussed and learned more about each other and how he was using his Jeep and where he was using his Jeep and the types of failures we were having, and we found out that he really was drawn to an old-school approach of tons of armor, tons of skid plates, thick steel, heavy, unbreakable items. They ended up with a 7,000-pound Jeep, probably the heaviest Jeep I've ever seen. And it was amazing and it was fun and he was having a good time, but it was breaking every single time he'd go out, and we really needed to upgrade and beef things up and we needed to get this Jeep as lightweight as possible.

I didn't listen and continued to put a lot of stuff on this Jeep and I had a lot of equipment that was mass-marketed but really not that heavy duty. One example, the front axle on the 44 Rubicon, given the weight of that Jeep and my exercising it beyond its limits, I tended to break a lot of things, and on the front axle I broke axle shafts so I spent the money for the more expensive axle shafts. Those seem to work okay. The next thing that started to break was the ring and pinion, and so I had upgraded ring and pinions. I had the dealer do it the first time.

First time I took it out with the dealer-installed ring and pinion upgrade, it tore up the ring and pinion assembly. I brought it back to the dealer. They said, "Well, timeout. We probably need to send you to an off-road shop. We're going to send you to Axleboy," and had Scott do it. Scott did it right. He found that the factory was actually supplying the wrong bolts with those factory ring and pinions that were not allowing the ring and pinion to be tightened correctly. They'd come loose, come apart. He knew that. I highly recommend Axleboy Offroad because I trust them.

Axleboy Custom Jeep Gladiator: Factor 55 Flatlink and Rope Guard

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 11:39:55 GMT

So we're here at Axleboy Offroad. We've got our 2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport S, and the S in this case is stock. It's bone stock, but we've been receiving a lot of the new components for the modifications from the suppliers that are helping us out with this build.

Next, we want to talk about, as far as unboxing, tell me about this Factor 55.

So Factor 55 is high quality recovery components. They specialize in, instead of having that open hook on the end of your winch cable, we're going to work with the Factor 55 flat link here, which is a closed winching system. Now what that means ...

Oh cool, it's orange.

Yeah, yeah. They had a limited edition run of orange, so I thought we needed it. With a closed winching system, we don't have an open hook. It's completely wrapped around, and then we stick a normal shackle in here, and then we attach it to whatever our tree saver or whatever we're going to winch to.

Our synthetic rope attaches here on this pen, and it just gives us a really nice build aluminum piece. It's completely closed. The stress is shared on both sides, so we can't just rip a hook off or rip it open, not to mention, they look amazing.

Now with this, we always get the rope guard. Most people don't really understand what that's about. The rope guard actually has to do with this. So we're using a synthetic rope, and when you're thinking of synthetic ropes, think of a braided rope that you would use on a sailboat, that kind of thing. So it's in here. Now if we were to come up to the front into a rock and hit, there's a possibility we could catch that rope and damage it, and that's the one downside to synthetic rope. It's safer, but it's easier to damage on sharp rocks.

When we put our rope guard on, it's actually going to go on here, and we can hit that and it'll spread the load out and the rope will never be touched. So when it's in its stored position, it keeps the rope from being damaged on sharp obstacles.

They also added in a fairlead, so they have a really nice aluminum fairlead. Now this is the piece that the synthetic rope is going to ride on. If you take a notice, it's super smooth, nothing's going to get damaged in there. As far as the rope rubbing on ...

No, no. Everything's build aluminum. Aluminum is really the way to go on all of these different components that we're doing to keep the weight down as much as we can. Again, Factor 55, they specialize in the closed winching system, and they do a lot of testing. So a lot of companies just stamp whatever they want on the end of the hook and maybe they tested it and maybe they didn't. Factor 55 tests this stuff on a regular basis. They try it in extreme situations, they try to see what it's going to take the break it, and then you can go online and you can actually watch the videos and see the results of the test. So this is seriously good stuff. Made in the USA, that's our favorite part. Second to none. So, definitely.

Terrific. Well, thanks to Factor 55. If you want to learn more, you can go to factor55, factor55.com. Of course, visit us at axleboy.com.

Axleboy Custom Jeep Gladiator: Rockslide Engineering Step Sliders

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 11:55:14 GMT

Hey guys, it's Scott from Axleboy Offroad. I'm here with Tom from Cole-Dalton Marketing. We're talking about our Gladiator today, the 2020 Sport S. Tom, I know we're going to 37 inch tires.

That's going to be a tall vehicle and I'm not really a tall person.

You're not.

As it turns out.You're not and you're not as young as you used to be either.

That's right.

So I know you said you wanted body protection. You wanted to be able to come down on a rock and not damage this brand-new Jeep. But you didn't want to have to hop and climb and get out stepladders to get in and out of it. So we partnered with Rock Slide Engineering. This is a step slider. Okay? So, it's a powered step, but unlike most of them that you see out there, this one's designed to take a beating, okay?

Scott:

So it's made out of heavy-duty steel. It's reinforced. We can get this under rocks and not damage it and destroy it. Okay? This is made in the US up in Utah and it is an amazing product. We can open the doors. The step rolls right out. I didn't want to do an unboxing on this because it's too intricate, so we'll cover it a little more when the project is finished. But I thought I'd touch on a couple of things.

So we're going to have a nice step that drops up, and as soon as you close the doors kind of go right back up. It has a LED lighting system. So once you open the door, it's going to light up the step for you, so you're not going to have an issue seeing where you're supposed to go in the dark. And then you're probably going to take the doors off at some point.

Well, what happens then? See, it triggers off of the door. So then your sliders are just stuck down, right?

Right.

Wrong. And they've got a bypass switch for us. When we take the door off, we can control the steps manually with a switch that's [inaudible 00:01:38] side.

So we have one of the doors on, there might be an occasion where we wouldn't want to, say we're off-road and we're getting in and out of the vehicle.

Yes.

And we're near a rock. We wouldn't want it to come down so that-

You could do that. The other thing that I do want to point out is the steps do have, they're not just going to keep trying to lower if they get obstructed. So if they go down, they will actually stop on whatever they hit. They don't keep pushing and break things. So this is a really nice setup. I think you'll be excited when you see them installed and I think your wife and kids will be happy to jump up in it after they're installed.

We'll give you a step that goes from here, here.

Yeah, it goes wheel-to-wheel.

So backseat passengers can also benefit from the step.

Yep. Again, great product. Made in the US, functions as a step, but it's not just cosmetic, pretty piece. It can take a beating. It's going to be perfect.

Great stuff. Rock Slide Engineering, rockslideengineering.com is my best guess.

I think that's it.

Axleboy Custom Jeep Gladiator: Genright Fenders and Bumpers

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 11:53:20 GMT

So we're back here at Axle Goy Offroad in O'Fallon, Missouri and we've got our 2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport S that is still S as in stock. It's completely stocked. The only thing that we've changed so far is we've taken the spare tire off.

Yeah.

I think to fit the speed sensors or something on these new wheels.

Correct.

But we've been unboxing and the new modification parts have been coming in from some of our great partners on this build and we've got some stuff here from GenRight Offroad. Why don't you tell us about what we have here, Scott?

So we're going to do fenders and bumpers and inner fenders from GenRight Offroad and we chose GenRight because this is all US made stuff. It's the highest quality stuff that you can get. It's going to have the best fitment, the best finish. The welds are second to none. It's just really the top of the line product and nobody can even come close. What we've got here, we're going to do all front and rear fenders on it.

These flares, they're solid aluminum, so they're ... Everything is simple. We've got heavy tubing, we've got aluminum plate. As you can tell, the fit and finish on this thing is 100%. When you go look at the welds, it's like a Rowan Nichols there. They just do ... Nobody has GenRight welds. They're simply the best in the market.

Now these are made out of aluminum.

Correct.

And they're going to replace these plastic fenders that came stock.

Exactly. Exactly. And we're going to do that for two reasons. One, so they're more durable. So if we were to be off road and we were to like get into a tree or something or anything, we're going to be protected. And the other reason we're going to do it is for tire cleanness. So we're going to be able to fit 37s with virtually no lift on it at all. It's going to be a real nice deal.

On the inside we're going to do the GenRight inner fenders. I left the polyfilm on there just to kind of show you how they protect the finish. It's got a really nice grate in there. We're going to do the same black and orange theme. It's going ... This is going to be black and then that grate in there is going to be painted orange and it's just going to look amazing. It's going to make the logos pop and go with our color theme.

A lot of times people want to know what this stuff looks like when it comes out of the box and the reason I bring that up is a lot of the import brands that are out there, when you get them in from the shipping department, they're just destroyed. Just destroyed. And I just kind of wanted to show off how GenRight does it.

So inside the GenRight box, it's packed. Everything's packed heavily with craft packaging. Everything's wrapped in foam and then it's wrapped in like the saran wrap shipping tape.

You got all the parts here?

All the parts and the instructions are everything in there. And this is one of those kits that you're never having to call and say, "Oh, I didn't get this, or I didn't get that." Like everything's always in the package. They just do a really nice job. The shipping department has great quality control.

Quality assurance.

Absolutely.

That's what it's all about.

And again.

So we're also going to paint these?

We are. We are. We're going to do the tube and the underside's all going to be black and then we're going to paint the top side, the flat piece will be orange to match the vehicle.

To match?

Mm-hmm(affirmative).

Awesome.

Yeah, so it's going to be great. Great colors.

Well I can't wait to get started. Thanks again to GenRight offroad. to learn more, you can come to axleboy.com.

Axleboy Custom Jeep Gladiator: Teraflex Wheels and Falken Tires

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 11:47:22 GMT

So, we're back inside at AxleBoy Offroad. We've got our 2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport S. One of the elements that I just can't stop talking about the Gladiator Sport S, as it sits stock, I've been driving it a little bit over the last few weeks and it's still gets a lot of attention even the way it is now because not everybody out there is familiar that, now Jeep has a pickup truck and I find every time somebody walks up to me and says, "Oh, this is really cool." I go, "No, it's going to have 37 inch wheels." That's the first thing I go to and I pull out my phone and show them the picture, so Scott, tell us about this wheel.

Yeah.

Tell us about the benefit it's going to do for us and what do we have in store here?

Absolutely, so we partnered with our friends at TeraFlex again, on this wheel, this is a Nomad wheel and what we have is a cast aluminum wheel. Now, the benefits of this wheel on the inside where the tire actually seats, we have sort of a cerated or a roughened edge and raised beads, rings to help keep the tire from becoming unseated from the rim when we got an aired down and off road, so you get the benefits that are similar to a beadlock, but you don't have any of the downfalls and the maintenance that go along with a beadlock.

And the beadlock is when it has that functional piece that has all those little adjustments on it.

Yes and you have to constantly torque those on a continual basis, not to mention that the legality on road is in question. It just depends on what authority you're talking to that day. With this wheel, we don't have anything to worry about with that. They've really thought this through, the next big thing that we see off road, besides the beads coming off the wheels, the valve stems get tore off, so you're looking at this and you see these really beautiful anodized red knobs, but what are they really for? And if we undo one, we can see that our valve stem is actually recessed.

Oh, so, it's like a protective...

This whole thing is protecting it, yeah. If you're going to rip off the valve stem, you're going to break the wheel, I mean literally, so this is all sealed. It has a nice O-ring seal, so it's going to keep all the dirt and the grit out and this would be how you air it up, under here we have our standard TPMS sensor that comes with the vehicle, it fits right in there, it's designed to.

So, TP, tire pressure-

Tire pressure monitoring system.

... monitoring system, so in the dashboard of the Gladiator, it'll tell us what all four tires PSI is.

Absolutely, so we're going to be able to retain that feature.

And it has a matching red knob.

The other knob, right, so the other thing we're going to do, you and I have talked about, when you go off road and you start your adventure that we're going to need to air our tires down.

Air them down, so you've got one pressure the road on the highway.

Correct.

And then you want a lower pressure-

A lower pressure off road.

... off road.

Right. This is going to do a couple things. One, it's going to give us a better tire contact or more tire contact on the ground or on the surface. It's also going to give us a much more comfortable ride off road as well and normally we had to get out and we have to get additional tools and all this stuff to make this happen, it's just not an easy thing. TeraFlex took care of that for us and what they have is an adjustable built in deflator, so we turn this or turn this knob and we start deflating the tire and it's automatic, so once we have the pressure set, it'll stop where we want it to, it's adjustable to the center screw.

So, what's it set at now?

I don't know that they've been dialed in yet, but probably about...

What would you dial it in to?

For what we're doing with this vehicle, which is more camping and that sort of thing, probably around 13, 14.

13 or 14.

Mm-hmm (affirmative). Now there's one more thing I really want to talk about with this wheel and you know I like driving on the rocks, right? I know you might not as much, but I really do and the one thing that drives me crazy is the wheel getting scratched up, so you buy this expensive wheel and you go rub it on rocks and it gets scratched up, they've thought about that too. Here we have a nylon bash ring, let's call it and this is replaceable. It's the material that it's made out of is colored all the way through, so even if we scuff it, it's going to stay colored properly.

It's going to protect the edge of the wheel. Our brand new wheels aren't going to get destroyed on the rocks. When we decide that they're too torn up and they need to be changed, undo some screws, throw new ones on, we're good to go and they look brand new so, we don't tear up the wheels, so we pretty much covered all the problems we would typically have with an offroad Jeep wheel.

So tell me about this, and we've learned about the wheel, tell me about this tire.

Yeah, so we partnered with Falken tire on these. This is the Wildpeak M/T, now several reasons we chose the Falken brand, one is they're one of the roundest, best balancing tires out there on the market. They're priced extremely competitive and for a mud tire, it's one of the quietest you can choose, so this isn't going to sound like a Jack hammer going down the road.

You're going to have a little bit of sound to it more than you would on your typical all-terrain or all season, but you're still going to be able to carry on a conversation and talk on the phone on hands free or whatever you need to do going down the highway. Now, this is one of the most aggressive sidewalls out there on the market in terms of puncture resistance. We do have a three ply sidewall, but two of those plies actually go down and wrap back up and what that does in terms of puncture resistance is it gives us the effective ability of a five ply tire without the ride, so it keeps the weight down, keeps it balanced. We do have an aggressive mud train type pattern. The way that the lugs are built, they're staggered and what that does is it cancels out the noise.

If we look at these ridges here, we've got mud and stone ejectors. This gets the wheel cleaned out, you get it spinning and you can throw all that debris out. We've got some ring siping here going on. This is going to help us in our all weather situations and not to mention that we've got an aggressive sidewall, when we air down, these upper ridges can actually make contract with the ground. They give you additional biting power plus protection for the sidewall by make it a little bit thicker.

So, aired down it becomes even wider.

Absolutely.

Contact with this section.

Correct and this is a long lasting tire. They typically don't rate mud terrain tires for how long they're going to last, but these are up there at the top. We tend to find that, regularly balanced and aligned we can see 45,000 miles out of a set of these without any problem.

Where can somebody go to learn more about Falken tires?

falkentire.com.

F-A-L-K-E-N.

Correct.

tire.com. That's great. Well, thanks a lot to TeraFlex and to Axleboy Offroad. To learn more, you can go to teraflex.com or visit us at axleboy.com.

Axleboy Custom Jeep Gladiator: Revolution Gear and Axle

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 11:41:41 GMT

So we're back inside Axleboy Off Road with our 2020 Gladiator Sport. The only thing that's changed so far on the Sport is we've taken the spare tire off. But in the meantime we've been doing a lot of unboxing. First thing you want to talk about with Scott Carline from Axleboy Off Road is we've unboxed the Revolution Gears and Axle parts.

Yeah. So first thing I want to do is just thank Revolution Gear for partnering with us on this build. I've got a couple of parts here we're going to regear to 4.88s to get our power back from putting on 37 inch tires and we're going to protect those new gears with a heavy duty reinforced differential covers. So these are obviously extremely thick. They're nicely welded. We can slam this into whatever we want and we're not going to have to worry about damaging these brand new gears.

So that's a nice addition. Not to mention the rigidity is going to help add some stability to this intersection of the differential. So have some plans to stay with that theme. We're going to do it black with an orange R on it. We want to keep it color coordinated. So that's the differential cover. We've got one for the front and for the rear. We're going to take a look at their master install kit. As you can see, everything's packaged really nice. So inside this master kit, we've got everything we need to install ring and pinion. We've got even down to the tube of a gasket maker gear marking compound.

Inside of our kit we've got new bearings. These are all Timken bearings in here. It looks like we might have a couple of Koyos. Koyo and Timkin would be brands that are used by the OEM manufacturer. We've got a new pinion seal, sleeves, collapsible spacer, ring gear bolts, red lock tight, brush. Pretty much everything you can think of that we're going to need to get a differential build.

It's all a heat shrinked down to a card so you can rest assured it's all contained and not going to fall out of the box. So we're going to take a look at the gear set here. So again, we have some really nice colorful packaging. So in here we can see how nicely packaged this ring and pinion is. Nothing's going to get damaged in shipping. We've got a new pinion gear. These are 4.88s for a Dana 44. New ring gear, one of the things that we liked the most about the Revolution Gears is the setup is so simple. Here at Axleboy we set up tons and tons of different manufacturer ring and pinions and typically we can get a good pattern on Revolution Gear in one move.

Some of the other ones, the China gears and some of the cheaper gears we'll get into when it takes three and four setups to get a pattern right. With Revolution, we know it's always going to be good. You can always see the pattern on the tooth of the gear that they ran it at and it makes it really simple to get in there and get it done. Again, super high quality pieces. They're priced right, they're reliable. This is good stuff. What do you think?

Ready to put it on.

I am too. Let's get a dial indicator and stuff and get going. All right?

All right. So thanks to Revolution Gear and Axle. If you want to learn more about Revolution Gears, just go to revolutiongear.com or of course you can always visit us at Axleboy.com.

Jeep Overlanding Basics

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 17:38:00 GMT

Jeep Overlanding Basics. If you love going off-road with your Jeep and you love camping, it’s time to take things to the next level with Overlanding. After all, one of the best things about owning a Jeep is the ability to travel just about anywhere! It may not be ideal if you’re new to the lifestyle but with some experience, you can overland for days, weeks, and even months.

What is Overlanding?

When you take your Jeep Overlanding, there is no real destination. The goal is to become reliant on your vehicle for transportation and the gear you pack for shelter. Everything you need should be available within your Jeep and you should use the journey to learn about the nature around you. You should be equipped to tackle all types of weather and terrain and face any challenges that come your way.

How Can I Get Started Overlanding?

Before you grab the gear and mod out your Jeep, you need to get into the right mindset. If you’re someone who appreciates hot showers and gourmet restaurant meals every day, Overlanding might not be for you. When you’re out in the wilderness for days or even weeks, you’ll need to “rough it” and problem-solve on the fly. Overlanding is hard work, but it’s truly rewarding for those who are prepared for anything that comes their way.

How do I Equip my Jeep for Overlanding?

While it may seem like outfitting your Jeep for Overlanding can be costly, you may already have what you need to get started. That said, knowing how to operate your vehicle in all types of terrain is far more important than any gear you add to it.

Other considerations include fuel economy and the reliability of your axles. You won’t have repair shops or gas stations when you’re Overlanding off-road. Plan your trips accordingly to optimize fuel use and have a qualified Jeep mechanic check your suspension before you go off-grid.

What Other Overlandng Gear Do I Need?

Once your Jeep is properly modded out, you’ll need to stock up on supplies based on where you’re going and how long you’re staying out.

Ready to explore the world of Overlanding with your Jeep? Not all mechanics are experts in the upgrades it takes to get your vehicle ready. At Axleboy, we want every client to get the best customizations for their vehicle. We’re not your average shop. Instead of selling you anything and everything, we’ll make sure you only get upgrades that are truly important to you. Get in touch with our team today!

The post Jeep Overlanding Basics appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Jeep Gladiator Custom Build Part 2 Inside

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 11:37:55 GMT

.So we've got the 2020 Gladiator up on the rack here Scott's shop, Axleboy Off Road. Scott, tell us about what we're looking at here with a bone stock Gladiator.

Yeah, absolutely. Moving up here to the front, we've got front and rear differentials. We've got those 3:21 gears we talked about inside here, and what that means is it means that this driveshaft turns 3.21 times to one revolution of a tire. That's what that means. As we put the bigger tires on, we're going to increase circumference, so that actually is going to make ... the vehicle is going to travel further, if you will, with the same amount of turns on the driveshaft. That's what brings the RPMs down. So we're going to re-gear that to 4:88s. That's going to be in the front and rear differential then.

We're going to be changing out some components with the lift kit. We're going to do an adjustable track bar. Stock track bar's here. As we lift this vehicle up, this track bar is going to swing the axle over to the driver's side, so we're going to want to recenter that. We're going to do that with an adjustable track bar. We're going to put in heavy duty shocks and a steering stabilizer. Get the ride quality where we want it, get it handling good. Variable rate springs, extended sway bar links with disconnects for when we go off road and we need more articulation.

We're going to be changing the lower control arms here. As we lift this, the same thing. The geometry swings the axle back. We roll caster out. Caster's the critical angle and caster's one of the alignment angles that helps us keep the Jeep driving straight down the highway. Gives it a sense of direction, if you will. So we're going to put extended length adjustable control arms on it. We're going to use the new TeraFlex IR arms. That's independent rotation, meaning that the center sleeve inside the bushing isn't captive like traditional bushing control arms. It actually has a bearing surface that allows it to freely turn. That keeps us from having torsional binding and it keeps us from wearing out the bushings as the suspension goes through its travel.

We have reasonable skid plate protection on this vehicle from the factory and I think for the purposes that we're doing, I don't know that we're going to need to make modifications here. I think if we were going to do more hardcore off road and get into the rocks, we would definitely want some heavier plates, but I think for what we're doing with our camping, fishing, outdoors type items, I think this is going to be ample protection, so not a whole lot we're going to worry about here.

Moving back, we have a multi piece driveshaft with a carrier bearing. That's what helps us deal with the additional wheelbase that the Gladiator has. Keeps the drive line angles in check and it gives us a little bit better clearance under here. If we had a one piece drive shaft, all this would be down and be accessible. This gives us a lot of protection here. Keeps everything smooth.

Moving back, the new Gladiator's suspension has longer control arms in the rear. It's set up for carrying a load. We've got factory multi-rate planes. We're going to keep those so we don't lose any carrying capacity with our new suspension. Rear differential, same thing. We're going to be doing those 4:88s. Other than that ...

Tell me about this spare tire.

Yeah. So the underside of this vehicle is where the spare tire is mounted. Now that's something kind of new for Jeeps. For years we've just had them on the tailgate. To keep the utility in check on this, we can't really do that. So this does have an underbed mounted spare. Now we can fit up to a 37 inch tire under here and that's another reason why we're stopping our tire size there. We want this to be a usable vehicle, and again, when we're out there in the back, then we're in the middle of nowhere, if we have a flat, we need to be prepared to deal with it. We need a spare tire. So that's one of the reasons we're going to stay with that 37 inch tire.

So let me ask you a dumb question. If you had 37 inch tires and one went flat, could you get by with this tiny tire or no?

No, you really couldn't. We've got a couple of things that could happen. If we have a limited slip differential or a locking differential, we would destroy it. You can't ... they're designed to allow the tires to turn at different speeds, but you can't turn them at different speeds to run down the highway.

So every tire needs to be the same size.

Yeah. We really ... in most of our modern four wheel drives, we'd really like to see all of our times, be within a quarter inch of circumference. So that's pretty tight. Anything other than that, we're going to get some bind or some drag.

Now you had mentioned when we ordered it that you suggest to getting the tow package, but I think it had something more to do with some of the other components, not just this hitch on the back.

That's correct. So we're going to be getting the factory connectors for the trailer hitch wiring, the four pin and the seven pin connectors. We're going to get the factory hitch and usually we get some things like additional cooling systems and gear ratios and things like that.

So the things that come with that package also serve to better accommodate some of the modifications we're going to put on the suspension.

Absolutely.

Great.

One of the first pieces I think we need to look at and talk about is we've talked about the high clearance fenders. We talked a little bit about tires. So this one's an example of a mud tire. We probably want to steer away from this with what we're doing. This high clearance fender here, if you look at and notice how tucked up and how tight and up to the top it is compared to the big thick flares that are on it from the factory with the inner splash shields, we're going to get a lot more tire clearance that way. That's going to allow us to keep this thing as low as possible, but get the biggest tire that we can, okay, so that's one important feature.

Now these are the GenRight flares, so they're made out of aluminum. We're going to control our weight and then we're going to get a lot of strength out of that as well.

What about the splash guards on the inside? Do they stay or do these come with it?

Splash guards on the inside are going to go, and then we're going to get new aluminum ones for the front.

Okay.

As far as the back goes, we're really not going to need that. If we want to color them black to keep them the same, then we're going to do like a bedliner material in there that'll help protect it and seal it up.

As far as the sides of it, we talked about the rock slide engineering steps and these are power. They fold down, they take a good beating and they protect the body.

And that'll install right here where there's nothing.

Yeah. Yeah. Flare to flare is where they go. They're bolt on and then if we do decide that we're going to pull the doors off it or something at some point there's also a bypass switch where you can control them manually and keep them from going down so we're not-

So how does it know when to come down, the steps?

So it's going to work off the factory door ajar system on that, but we can put in this bypass switch which will allow us to control it manually, as well, so that way we get the best of both worlds.

We talked about the stubby bumper and then maybe something like this. This is, again, this is a GenRight off road. It's a narrow bumper, so we're going to have better approach to our tires to get them up on obstacles and keep from smashing the bumper into things. Again, it's aluminum, it's lightweight, it's strong, keeps everything well protected.

We're going to need a recovery winch in there and we're going to have some good recovery points that we can put in D-rings and that we can even flat tow from if we want to. So we're kind of going to get the best of both worlds, but we're going to have it in a small, compact, lightweight aluminum package. GenRight's all made in the U.S., over in California, so really good products.

What were you thinking style-wise for the replacement-

For the wheels?

... wheels.

Yeah, so I think we're going to do a 17 inch mostly because it's common. Tire prices are relatively inexpensive and we have a lot of choices. I don't see a reason for a larger wheel than that for this project. At that point, it's pretty much going to be up to you. We're going to try to stick with something that has a broad flange on it that protects the rim from rubbing up against things and keeps it from, you know, if you have a real narrow, fragile lip, it's easy to damage, right? So we're going to want something a little bit thicker there that can take a pretty good hit. I would imagine we're going to look at XD Fuel, Moto Metal.

Cosmetically I'm thinking something in like a matte black.

Yeah, a matte black is going to set up and work well with the sliders and that sort of thing. As far as the ... we talked about the tires and I think that one of the hybrid tires like the the Falken WildPeak 18 3W, that's a fairly aggressive all-terrain. It has nice calm centers. It's quiet on the highway. 50,000 mile plus tire. The lugs on the outside and then a very unique double wrap sidewall that protects it from any puncture damage on the side.

So suspension modifications is one of the things that you and I talked about a lot and so we're going to have some unique challenges with this vehicle. We're going to have additional weight in the back. So we're going to have a crack, we're going to have a tent. We're going to have maybe bicycles, camping gears, kayaks, all these different things.

Cooler.

Yes, not to mention the added weight of a larger spare tire and items like that and the armor that we're going to add and things like that. So one thing we're going to have to take into consideration is how is this vehicle going to handle with the additional weight and so we're going to need a shock absorber that really just ... technology well beyond what the factory has to offer. I think we're going to use the Falcon shocks. These are handmade up in Utah. Parent company is TeraFlex. Great, great product. This is a monotube shock and what that means is there's a single cylinder in here. We have an internal floating piston as well as the piston that's attached to the rod. Now the advantage of this shock is going to be that the shock oil and the nitrogen aren't mixed together at all so we aren't going to aerate the shock oil like we would in a twin tube shock.

Now where this becomes important is in a vehicle like this that we know we're going to be doing some serious gravel roads and washboard. As the shock starts moving faster and faster, our twin tube shocks that you have from the factory, they're going to aerate, we're going to experience what's called shock fade. So the faster that shock works, the hotter it gets, the more aerated the fluid gets, the less control we have and the vehicle's going to bounce out of control. With a monotube shock, that can't happen. The fluid and the gas don't mix together and then as the temperature increases in the shock and the harder you work it, the higher the nitrogen charges, the more shock damping we have. So we're going to use something like this on here, I think.

So the performance of this actually would get better or stay the same if there was a lot of bouncing?

It's going to get better.

It actually gets better.

It'll actually get firmer on the rougher terrain.

Where the stock shock would ...

Yeah.

Performance would deteriorate.

Yes.

Putting all that stress on it.

We'll get dynamic handling out of this, okay. So it's going to be dynamic. It's going to change based on how hard we drive it versus the stock twin tube shock, it's going to be static so it's always going to provide the same dampening no matter what.

And then when the new tires and wheels are on here and the new fenders, we'll actually be able to see part of that, too.

Yeah, it's going to look amazing.

Cool.

This is obviously a really nice piece. Again, they're doing some pretty phenomenal things.

So that's it from here for today. We're going to be back in a couple of weeks and we're going to check in on the progress. By then we should have tires and wheels.

Yeah, we should have tires and wheels picked out and everything in there. Lift kit components should be here and you can actually unbox some of that. I would expect the body armor to be here by then, too, and we can start talking about that. Opening up boxes and seeing what we got.

All right, we'll come back soon. Thanks for watching.

So that's a look at what we have to work with. Our blank palette, if you will. In our next video, we're going to be unboxing and taking a closer look at some of the components that are going to be added to this Gladiator before we start putting them on. So make sure to click the subscribe button and follow us here on YouTube and as soon as that next video gets published, you can watch it right away and continue with us on this road to the ultimate 2020 Jeep Gladiator Axleboy Off Road build.

Axleboy Jeep Gladiator Custom Build Part 1

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 13:16:20 GMT

Hey everybody, I'm Tom Shipley. I'm here with Scott Carline from Axleboy Offroad. We just purchased a brand new 2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport and I worked very closely with Scott to spec this out. We talked to a bunch of different dealers, we did a lot of research online. We're going to do a walk around of the stock Jeep and talk about some of the things that we want to improve. We're seeking to walk through the process of buying a new Jeep and then doing modifications to make the Jeep precisely fit the uses that we have in mind for it.

Basically if I understand what we're doing, we purchased the Jeep, we're going to want to use it for more of an over landing camping outdoor experience. When we take that into account, we're going to need enough modifications to the body and the suspension to allow us to get back to where we want to go. If we're going to be getting back into those remote camping sites, we need more clearance to get in those areas, to get down those rough gravel roads. We're going to need a rack of some sort to hold our tent, bike rack, kayaks, that sort of thing. And we definitely have to improve the appearance because-

Yeah.

... She's pretty plain looking right now but we've got some big plans for that and I know you and I talked about easy accessibility to get in and out of the Jeep. Right now there's no steps at all, it's just blank and we're going to be putting 37 inch tires on here so we want to be able to get it out of this thing pretty easily. We also want some body protection because we've got this beautiful Jeep, we don't want to get onto something and smash up the rockers. We're going to do some RockSlide Engineering Power Steps on there, Step Sliders is what they're called. They're electric and they can take a beating and protect the body, it's kind of the best of both worlds. It's going to help you get in and out. It's going to be a pretty big deal when we're on 37s.

To do that, I think we're going to go to a three and a half inch lift on here. We're also going to get some different fenders for it as well. We're going to get some fender armor if you will. Looking at GenRight right now, I think we're going to do aluminum to keep it as light as we can and we're going to have an Aluminum Tube Fender that's going to give us more tire clearance and it's going to give us a little something in case we were to get up close to a tree or a rock to give us a little protection, something more than this plastic. When these get into any kind of trees or brush, they'll just rip right off.

We talked about 37 inch tires.

Right, yeah.

We considered 35 inch tires, and tell me about the reasons that 37s make more sense in 35 for what we want.

Sure. One of the reasons I like a 37, especially on the Gladiator is going to be mostly just because of the bed section. Our departure angle suffers a little bit, we're hanging back there. It has to, otherwise we don't have a usable utility vehicle at that point. Plus we have quite a long wheel base, so it's easy to high center on things right in the middle. If we go over the top of a hill and the center gets caught, we're stuck and we're done. Now, since this is to be a camping and an outdoor vehicle, I don't think that we want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere by ourselves with no way to get around. We're going to try to add some more clearance to be able to get back on some of those tougher areas.

What about road noise?

Oh, I think we're going to do a hybrid style tire. I think we're going to do something that has some mud capability but not a full on mud tire. We're going to do something that's really quiet, still has a mileage warranty, but is still pretty capable off road.

So capable off road, but not screaming when you're going down the highway, you can't even hear the radio.

No. Yeah, we don't want it to sound like a jack hammer. We'd like to be able to have a conversation in the Jeep while we're driving.

But cosmetically, it's going to look more aggressive than what came on as stock.

Definitely. This is just a simple all season tire. We're going to go... Hybrid tire's going to have some mud lugs on it and it's going to have more of an all terrain in the center. There's going to be water and snow technology here for rain and slip conditions, but we're going to have a little bit of a lug on the outside, not to mention reinforced sidewalls to help us from puncturing the tire.

Right.

We want to try to avoid that because again, if it's going to be a camping vehicle and we're going to be in remote locations, we want to make sure that we're self-contained and can handle everything we come across.

Very cool. Do we want to walk around this and point out-

Yes. One of the first things I noticed is when we're looking at our headlights, it's the basic headlight design, the Halogen. I think we're probably going to want to go to some sort of LED technology here so we can just flat out see better, especially when we're back on those roads. We might go in too and add some different fog lights and things. Diode Dynamics is one company we do a lot of work with. They've just come out with their S3 light pods. They're DOT approved and extremely bright in a small package. Really, really new technology.

Now, when we get that height up higher with the 37s and the three and a half inch lift, do the headlights need to be adjusted down-

Yes.

... Because now they're [inaudible 00:04:52] higher.

The headlights are going to be adjusted a little bit. We're going to try to keep from blinding other drivers-

Right.

... But we still need to be able to see, so we're going to balance that out. We have talked about possibly going to a stubby bumper in the front, where here we have a full width. If we go to a stubby bumper, it's going to stop right here at the edge of the grill and that's going to give us the ability to get a tire up on something without hitting, so we'll be a little more capable off road. With the larger tire, we are going to change the ring and pinions though, we are going to go to a different final drive gear ratio and that's going to be to restore the power that we lost.

When we increase the height of the tire, we actually increase the circumference and the engine RPMs compared to the mile per hour that we're driving are going to have a significant change. We're going to regear that, we're going to change it so we can get the RPMs back where they're supposed to be and that's going to restore our factory power and economy.

So driving out here on the highway, which is right next to us here-

Right.

... I did note that on flat going about 70 miles an hour, we're right about 2000 RPM right in there.

Mm-hmm (affirmative). Yeah.

If we put those wheels on here and didn't change the gear ratio, what would that RPM look like?

1600ish, something like that.

So it's [crosstalk 00:06:08].

It's going to constantly... What'll happen is, is when you get on those slow rolling hills on the highway, you just got to go in and out overdrive all the time. Just constantly shift in, shift out, shift in, it's going to drive you crazy.

And the gear ratio that it comes with is?

This one I believe has a 321 in it.

321, and we're to 488?

488s yeah. I'd like to see cruise speed right around 2,600 RPMs. That's kind of my sweet spot. That's going to give us good power, good fuel economy.

Cool.

That's kind of where I'd like to see it. We're going to want to do a rack in the back. I know we talked about that and we talked about spray in bed liner.

Yeah. This is so stock, you can order it with a bedliner and you can order extra options for back here.

Mm-hmm (affirmative).

We didn't think we really needed them and anything that we do determine we need, we can get [crosstalk 00:06:59].

We're going to do it right here. Yeah, I think one of the points of this project is to show how, if we buy a base model, how we can turn it into what we want, not necessarily what Jeep thinks we want. I mean they might have a pretty good idea, but I mean, let's face it, you're going to be out doing some different things. Probably not everything that they thought of. Camping, biking, kayaking. Obviously as we sit right now, this vehicle isn't going to get us back where we want to be and it's not going to be equipped to handle those loads and to carry those items.

Some of the dealers will do their own modifications.

Right, right.

And they'll start with a more of a base model or one more similar to this and they'll put bigger wheels on it and they'll put a lift kit on it.

Mm-hmm (affirmative).

Tell me about some of the things to look for as far as what's the dealer's intention when they do modifications and then sell it with the modifications versus coming in here and working with you and your team?

Yeah, so there is a big difference in the way that that plays out. When you go to the dealership, what they're looking for is street appeal. If it looks good from the street and the people drive by and they like what they see, they're going to go in, they're going to buy it, they can finance it all right there, boom out the door. But what they find out is, is none of the parts were selected with any idea of how the people were going to use the vehicle. What were the tires that were selected? They were either the cheapest ones they could find or that they got the best deal on, or they just picked a brand name they thought people would recognize.

They didn't take into account, are you going to be on gravel roads? Are you going to be on the highway? Are you going to be in the mud? They're not looking at any of that. How good are the sidewalls? Are they puncture resistant? Like I said, one thing with this vehicle as we know, we're going to be getting back there by ourselves to get these things done that we want to do. This camping, the hiking, the fishing, the hunting, so we need reliable equipment that's going to fit our needs. Not just random brand names that somebody picked because we know they're going to sell when people drive by and they look flashy.

Yeah.

And in our experience we're always going to be better off if we consult before we buy the vehicle with someone like us, where we can talk to you about how you're going to use it and what your expectations are, and then we hand the items to get you there.

Makes sense.

It's definitely more than just looks and brand names.

Let's take a quick look inside.

Yeah.

You're not going to do a whole lot up to the interior. This is stock interior, but I found it very comfortable.

It is. It is a really comfortable interior. Sound system is adequate. I know we talked about adding some camera system to it, so we're going to look into that. Something to help us park.

It came with a pretty impressive rear camera for backing up, but there's no camera on the front.

Right, right.

And there's no sensors to tell you how close you are to the bumper of the car in front of the you.

Right.

I need something like that.

Yeah. So we're going to get that all fixed up as well. Make it a little bit easier for you to park. Other than that, I think we talked about some phone and equipment holders, things like that up on the dash. The interiors are pretty good. I believe you have the Upfitter switches.

Yeah, the AUX, auxiliary package. So there's four buttons there, tell me about why those are important or helpful to have [crosstalk 00:10:08].

Right. When you have the auxiliary panel, any lights or electrical accessories that we're going to add, we have a set of programmable buttons that we're going to use that are pre-installed and then the wiring harness is out there. This is all factory style wiring. We're talking about weatherproof connectors. We're talking about the same types of things that are used as if it originally came with it, that's going to give us reliability. Wires aren't going to be corroding and turning green and getting all nasty. It's just going to be really simple.

Now this auxiliary panel is programmable, so we can have it where it's a momentary or a latch switch or available when the keys off or maybe it turns off the power when you turn the key off so you don't run the battery down. We can set all of that and then it's of course in a really nice attractive package that looks like it's supposed to be there.

Yeah, that's the part I liked.

Which is the nicest thing about it.

It's clean and it fits into the design. The original design.

Yeah, it's extremely versatile and it is a nice option, I would recommend that. It can be added later as well by the way, that is an option that we have added to them after the sale. It's always less expensive to do it when you buy it though.

Sure, sure. So that's our walk around of the brand new 2020 Jeep Gladiator that we're going to modify and build with the Axleboy Offroad team. In our next video, we're going to put this thing on the lift and we're going to go underneath it and figure out what we need to fix there too.

Top Tips for New Jeep Owners

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 18:09:00 GMT

Top Tips for New Jeep Owners. Are you starting the new year off with a new Jeep? If so, welcome to the family! Before you dive right into Jeep ownership, there are a few things you should know about being a member of this special club.

You’re Officially Living the Jeep Life

Welcome to a world where everything you do revolves around your Jeep. You probably have a picture of it as your phone screensaver — we don’t judge! You’re also likely noticing all of the other Jeeps on the road and taking a closer look at the mods and parts those drivers have chosen. This healthy obsession will start small with a rearview mirror accessory or license plate frame. Before you know it you’ll be waiting for package delivery notifications and checking out every sale for that next Jeep part at a great price. Better start budgeting for your upgrades now!

The Best Jeep is Your Jeep

It’s easy to think that the Jeep model you choose is the best Jeep, and you may be right. However, the best thing about being a Jeep owner is that every vehicle takes on the character of their driver, making each unique. That said, you will encounter a good-natured rivalry among the models. Even though YJs might stick together and XJs have their cult following, you can still ride with different Jeeps. You’ll start to get it the more you drive.

Enjoy Your New Popularity

Let’s face it: Deep down, everyone wants their Jeep. Whether you’re hitting the trails or digging through the snow, all of a sudden new friends will pop out of the woodwork to come along for a ride. Even if you’re just cruising down the road with the top off, people will want to be seen in your Jeep, living vicariously through you. Make sure you charge for gas and don’t forget to bask in the spotlight and enjoy your newfound superstar status.

Beef Up the Security

Sorry, but you can’t just leave things in your car anymore now that you have a Jeep. It may be a slight inconvenience but it’s a small sacrifice for new Jeep owners. Having a soft-top or no top at all is like a neon sign for anyone looking to score with your valuables. Lockboxes, security consoles, and deck enclosures are all smart mods to add to your Jeep so you can have peace of mind for those rare occasions you’re not actually in or nearby your vehicle.

Become a Jeep Club Member

Along with becoming a frequent visitor to Jeep forums, there’s also a good chance that Jeep clubs in your area are looking for new members. Not only are these clubs great resources when you have questions about your vehicle, but they’ll introduce you to fun new friends that will go out on trails with you (don’t ever trail alone). This is a great network to spend time with based on your shared obsession with Jeeps, and you’ll make lifelong friendships and create memories.

Know About the Death Wobble

On big, modified 4×4 vehicles, the front wheels can sometimes wobble from vibration. This means that not all of the parts and mods are aligned properly and working well together. Avoid the Death Wobble by working with a shop that specializes in Jeep work. These are the professionals that will check every part (even the stock parts) to ensure they’re bolted down and up to the tough task of traversing the trails. Better yet, build a relationship with a shop that offers high-quality modifications as well as installation, repair, and maintenance.

Learn the Jeep Wave

Yes, you absolutely MUST wave to other Jeep owners on the road — this comes with the territory of being a Jeep owner. It doesn’t have to be fancy; just a visible hand gesture is enough to let your fellow Jeep loves know you see them and appreciate their taste. This wave is a Jeep thing!

Want to get started making your new Jeep a mean machine? Our experienced team at Axleboy is always ready to welcome new clients. We provide our clients with trusted custom consulting and every consultation with us is thorough, informative, and helpful.

While we work with many of the top brands and suppliers in the industry, it’s our mission to match you to the best fit for your Jeep and lifestyle. When you drive away from our shop, we want you to be satisfied with your experience and thrilled with the new customizations to your ride. Get in touch with the experts at Axleboy today to book a custom Jeep consulting appointment with an expert.

The post Top Tips for New Jeep Owners appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Intro Gladiator Build 2019

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 13:13:04 GMT

Hi, I'm Tom Shipley. I've been working with Axleboy Offroad to help them with their marketing efforts over the last year, and for 2020, we've landed on a big idea to get the word out about Axleboy Offroad throughout the St. Louis region and we're going to do a special custom build of a brand new 2020 Jeep Gladiator.

So this series of videos is going to take you along for the ride. As we first take delivery of the Gladiator, we're going to do a walk around and we're going to assess everything that it has when it comes right off the dealer's lot and we're going to talk through all the things that we're going to do to make that Gladiator bespoke for our needs.

It's not going to be designed to be a rock crawler, but it's not necessarily a mall crawler either. We want it to be the right vehicle for the outdoor enthusiast that has an outdoor lifestyle. They like to fish, they like to camp, they like to paddle. They might like to mountain bike or even go on trail runs.

The spec of the Gladiator is going to be designed to stand out because we want to get the word out about Axleboy and we want to make an impact, but we also want it to be purpose-built. And at the end of the project, it's going to be a higher quality build and a more custom build than anything you could order directly from the dealer. And Scott Carline is going to talk to us about all the things to look for and all the things that need to be upgraded now, some of the things that can be upgraded later so that we have a fantastic build that stands out and meets the needs of the outdoor enthusiasts.

So make sure to click the subscribe button and follow us here on YouTube. And as soon as that next video gets published, you can watch it right away and continue with us on this road to the ultimate 2020 Jeep Gladiator Axleboy Offroad build.

Great Gifts for Jeep Lovers

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 18:43:00 GMT

Great Gifts for Jeep Lovers! The holidays are right around the corner. Have you crossed everyone off your list yet? Whether you’re looking to score a last-minute gift for the Jeep enthusiast in your life or finding something to splurge on for yourself, we have a few recommendations for off-roaders and overlanders.

When you spend as much time outdoors as you do in your Jeep, you need serious gear that’s seriously easy to pack away and store — and maybe even serves as multi-purpose tools out on the road.

Stocking stuffers for Jeep lovers

Small gifts for Jeep enthusiasts are a great way to show you care without spending a fortune. It’s also a nice finishing touch to a bigger gift. Think about a keychain that can be carried everywhere and reminds them of you. Added features like small tools or LED lights can really come in handy on an off-road adventure.

Another option is a trailer hitch cover to keep the hitch from rusting and the rust from spreading — something that can happen when hitches see a lot of scraping and scratching from frequent towing. Not only is a hitch cover utilitarian, but it can also be personalized to show off a Jeep lover’s true character.

While the state of Missouri requires front and back license plates on Jeeps, you can get an inexpensive plate frame that lets everyone know when they’re coming and going on the road and off. Stick to stainless steel; it’s tough and durable and can withstand whatever the outdoors throws at it.

Jeep gifts under $50

Know someone who loves to take their top off? (The top of their Jeep, of course!) Removable tops and doors are a great perk for off-roaders, but it’s not always easy to do. Snag a top door removal tool to make quick work of taking it all off. Throw a touch-up pen in the box too, just in case chips and dings happen along the way.

Getting muddy is truly a Jeep Thing, and seat covers can help maintain the interior — even under the dirtiest conditions. Grab a set that matches your Jeep lover’s personality and the vehicle’s other personalizations and paint colors.

While many Jeep gifts under $50 are mostly cosmetic, grab bars fit this price point and can be quite useful. Make sure the sets include handles for front and back seat passengers so everyone has something to hold on to when you take the Jeep over the river and through the woods to Grandma’s house and beyond.

When you have $150 to spend

Everyone on the road and on the trails can see your spare tire, so why not cover it up and show off your style? Spare tire covers can add the perfect personalized touch to your modded-out Jeep, and they’re easy to change out depending on your mood. Just make sure the cover you choose is durable; they can take quite a beating.

Upgrading to LED headlights and tail lights is a smart gift, but don’t overlook adding lighting under the wheel wells. This makes a Jeep look awesome and helps illuminate the trail when you’re traveling off-road in the dark. Talk about double-duty!

For Jeeps registered in Missouri, the front license plate requirement can make it tricky to install a winch. That is, of course, unless your Jeep enthusiast has a bracket that can be easily removed to allow for winch use. Many of these brackets are easily installed and don’t require drilling, so even beginners can get them on and off.

Serious Jeep splurges for $500 and under

Know a new Jeep owner who is looking to do some serious modding? Wow them with auxiliary switch systems that can provide enough power for four to six devices. This way they’ll have the ability to customize as they wish and be able to support all the cool gear they’ll ever need. For all models 2005 and newer, remote start kits make a great gift for those cold winter months.

If you’re a Jeep lover, you already know about Jamping (camping with your Jeep) and you likely have what it takes to brave the outdoors. A retractable awning is a great gift when you want to stay comfortable while setting up a campsite (or jampsite?). It’s also a nice piece of gear to shade you from the elements on a day trip.

While this list is perfect for the holidays, Jeep gifts are perfect for any occasion! Get in touch with our team of pros at any time of the year to talk about other gifts and mods for the Jeep enthusiast in your life — even if that enthusiast happens to be you!

The post Great Gifts for Jeep Lovers appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Winter Weather in Your Wrangler

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 16:17:00 GMT

Winter Weather in Your Wrangler! Winter weather has officially arrived in St. Louis, and while some snowbirds are flying to warmer areas, Wrangler owners in colder climates are getting ready to travel the snowy trails. Even if you have the gear to tackle snow, slush, and ice, it’s important to understand that the “rules” of winter driving still apply.

The fundamental basis for winter driving is to avoid any abrupt turns, stops, and other potentially unsafe maneuvers. Because climates are different across the country, your mileage may vary — but there are a few universal tips that will help you (and your Jeep!) stay safe when the temperature drops.

First things first. You’ll need to take steps to prep your Jeep and winterize it to tackle icy conditions.

Know before you go

How you drive in the snow really depends on what kind of snow (wet, fluffy, etc.) you’ll be driving in and how deep it is. Shallow snow will be forgiving but ice-glazed deeper snow means you’ll have to be a bit more careful and avoid sudden movements. When accelerating, wheel speed is the name of the game here; too high and snow will freeze in your tire, and too slow means you’ll sink down into the snow.

Time to stop

There’s one big rule when it comes to stopping your Wrangler in the snow: Give yourself more room than you need. Many cars on the road have ABS systems, which means they will stop better and faster than you, and in nature, trees (for example) aren’t going to move much when you hit them — ouch! Double whatever stopping distance you would leave when it’s not winter for safety.

When you’re on-road, ice will present more of an issue than snow. It doesn’t matter if you can see it or it’s a patch of black ice, all of it is pretty dangerous. Off-road driving in snow is a bit more forgiving when it comes time for a full stop. Locking up the brakes on your Wrangler is fine as long as you’re giving yourself enough time and distance to avoid hitting anything. If you do happen to hit ice don’t slam the brakes! While it may feel like the easiest and fastest way to stop, pumping the brakes is much more efficient and safer.

Take the wheel and steer

Four-wheel driving (whether on-road or off) will only make steering easier at low speeds; it doesn’t much help if you’re driving your Wrangler at higher speeds. Your vehicle is top-heavy and has a short wheelbase, and this higher center of gravity could increase the chance of tipping or rolling over during a sharp turn.

Deep snow can make it difficult to turn your tires on the pavement even if your wheel is cranked all the way to the right or the left. Keep your Wrangler in four-wheel drive on the icy roads to steer where you’re headed and keep from spinning out. On trails, stay in ready-made tracks, keep your speed down, and keep it in four-wheel drive.

If you’re planning on taking your Wrangler out in the winter weather more often than not, or your vehicle is a daily driver, it’s probably a smart idea to invest in a set of winter tires. Our team can certainly help with that! One thing we know from our years in business is that every client is different. How you choose to drive your vehicle is different from the next person.

We love Jeeps as much as you do! Get in touch with us now — before winter weather hits and you’re stuck without the custom gear you need to go play in the snow!

The post Winter Weather in Your Wrangler appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Everything You Need to Know About Jeep Wrangler Tires

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 13:32:00 GMT

Jeep Wrangler Tires. Let’s face it: There’s a good chance you bought a Jeep Wrangler because you’re ready to explore the great outdoors with off-road driving. In order to navigate trails that lead to the best fishing (or mudding) holes, it’s important to have the right tires — not only for your vehicle but also for where you’ll be taking it.

Knowing what you want to do and where you’ll be going is the first step in determining which tires will be best. That said, it’s not easy to choose Jeep tires from all the options you have available, but a few universal guidelines apply to pretty much all vehicles.

Pay attention to stock and lift

The right tires will not only maintain your Jeep’s efficiency but will also protect Mother Nature when you’re out there off-roading. If you’re starting out with stock Jeep tires, you need to identify the size you currently have to know what upgrades you can choose. If you have a lift kit, keep that in mind to know how tall of a Jeep tire you can choose.

Choosing tires for the daily driver

If you’re planning to drive your Jeep every day in between adventures into the wild blue yonder, you’ll need to choose tires that can handle both rugged terrain and pavement with minimal wear and tear. Tires that work well in mud will be noisy on the highway, and pavement-only tires could lack the traction needed on the trails. Talk to us about choosing a tire that’s a good compromise, without sacrificing grip or noise levels.

Jeep Wrangler Tires. Research all-terrain tires thoroughly

On the other hand, if you’re planning to use your Jeep mostly for pavement driving, you’ll want to look into all-terrain tires. These are the factory tire on many “beginner” Jeeps and other SUVs, and while they are designed for paved road use, they can also navigate well in inclement weather and some “easy” off-road trails. While all-terrain tires are great for sand and beaches, they may not offer enough traction for muddy environments.

Take it all off-road

Mud tires for Jeeps have a pretty serious tread, with deeper channels that can easily dig through sludge and mud without losing traction. If you’re the type of Jeep driver that takes your vehicle mainly off-road, these might be your best choice. Tread patterns on mud tires are also great for rocky terrains. They can protect tires from possible punctures, and they better conform to the topography of the trail.

Weathering winter and snow

For climates and adventures that include snow and ice, a good set of winter tires could be better than even the best mud or off-road Jeep tires. Not only will they offer better traction on slippery surfaces, but you’ll also find that they provide shorter stopping distance, improved turning, and better acceleration. (Don’t forget your winch when you go on winter adventures, regardless of how good your snow tires might be!)

Reduce some (air) pressure

Don’t overlook the importance of airing down. Even if you have the appropriate tires for your chosen terrain, changing the tire pressure by airing down can offer increased vehicle and tire performance. Lowering pressure can widen the footprint of your tire and allow the tire to flex and conform to the terrain more. Just remember not to lower it too much, and increase pressure before you take your Jeep back on the pavement.

Airing down is especially important if you’re planning on taking your Jeep to the beach or through the sand. Wider tires are a great choice for these trips, but you can also air down for increased traction, better weight distribution, and less spin-out when you accelerate. Just make sure not to gun it too hard; you’ll dig yourself into a hole instead of taking off.

Think beyond tires

No matter which trails you travel or the Jeep Wrangler tires you choose, you shouldn’t go off-roading without some important preparations. If you’ve never been before, it could be worth taking a course. Don’t overlook the importance of a winch kit to help in case you get stuck and a first-aid kit (just in case). Respect the nature around you and stay on the designated trails.

How you choose to use your Jeep is an important part of knowing which tires you need. Axleboy technicians work with clients who use their vehicle for school carpool, as well as drivers who want to take their Jeep camping down by the river on the weekends. Once we learn where you plan on driving, we can help you pick out tires that will give you the most control of your vehicle.

When you come to us, we’ll work with you to figure out what type of tires best fit your purposes. After you choose the right tire options for your model, we’ll expertly mount and balance them. Contact us today to get the best tires for your ride.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Jeep Wrangler Tires appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Top Jeep Wrangler Modifications

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 20:41:00 GMT

Top Jeep Wrangler Modifications. If you’re reading this post, there’s a good chance you’re ready to mod out your Jeep Wrangler but don’t quite know where to start. Don’t worry — you’ve come to the right place! Not only do you need the best mods, you also need top-notch service to match. We can provide both. Below is just a short list of the most popular modifications we offer for your Jeep Wrangler; don’t hesitate to ask us about others.

Backup Cameras

Although laws have been passed to require backup cameras on Jeep Wranglers made in 2018 and later, older models don’t have this feature built in. The good news is that there are plenty of options available when it comes to after-market backup cameras, and at plenty of different price points and resolutions. While rear view mirrors have been around for decades, accidents due to blind spots sometimes still happen.

Backup cameras are a great feature for new drivers or those who are new to driving a Wrangler, especially if it’s modified to be larger, longer, or taller than the factory model. They allow drivers a clear view of what’s behind them and come in handy during inclement weather. Wiring can be tricky for this modification and it should be done by professionals with plenty of experience.

Custom hoods and latches

Jeep owners are as unique as their Wranglers, and their hoods should reflect those style and performance preferences. You have plenty of hood options, with choices ranging from sleek, plain steel or more intricate fiberglass designs. Make sure you settle on a hood that fits the make, model, sub-model and year of your Wrangler.

On that note, you’ll want to upgrade hood latches as well. Factory latches are generally made out of stretchy rubber, and while it’s unlikely that your hood will fly off on the highway, the movement at faster speeds may seem worrisome. Upgrading your latches will give you peace of mind and even more security to protect any expensive aftermarket upgrades under the hood.

Bumpers

Okay, so your Jeep Wrangler already has bumpers, we get it. But those factory options probably won’t stand up to a collision or the wear and tear of offroading. Heavy duty bumper modifications are arguably one of the first mods you should invest in when you get your new Jeep. Bumpers also come in various sizes and designs; these are just a few options:

Work with your professional install team to decide which style fits your Jeep best and which looks most aesthetically pleasing with your current and future modifications.

Recovery winch and gear

If you only choose one modification, let it be a recovery winch — especially if you’re interested in using your Jeep Wrangler for offroading. Winches are really the only way to get your Jeep out of a ditch or other tough spot Having one can be particularly handy if you’re off-roading with friends and they get stuck. .

Along with a winch make sure you pick up extra gear like gloves, d-rings, and recovery straps that stretch and provide kinetic energy to pull cars from snow, mud, and sand. Bumper tow hooks, first-aid kits, and heavy duty jacks can also be incredibly useful.

Terrain-appropriate tires

Think beyond size and width when it comes to choosing something different than the factory tires that came with your Jeep Wrangler. Unless you plan on using your vehicle strictly for road driving, it’s a smart idea to choose a set of all-terrain (A/T) tires that adapt traction to the surface you’re driving on. These tires are made of a softer rubber than your factory set, so they can wear out faster; just beware of this fact when making your choice.

Mud-terrain (M/T) tires are even softer than A/T tires and have tread that help spit out mud and gravel for aggressive traction on off-road trails. The downside to these tires is faster-than-normal tread wear and plenty of tire noise on pavement. Bias-ply tires are a third option to talk to your installer about; while they grip extremely well, they don’t perform well at all on the pavement.

There are countless other interior and exterior mods to choose from, including new audio systems, lift kits, Jeep armor, racks, side steps… The list goes on and on! At Axleboy, we want every client to get the best customizations for their vehicle. We’re not your average shop. Instead of selling you anything and everything, we’ll make sure you only get upgrades that are truly important to you. Let’s get started modding out your new Jeep Wrangler!

The post Top Jeep Wrangler Modifications appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Will Upgrades Void My Jeep Warranty?

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 18:53:00 GMT

The Dealer Told Me Aftermarket Upgrades Would Void My Jeep Warranty

We hear it all the time during Jeep-build consultations. Picture this: Clients considering the purchase of a new Jeep come into Axleboy Off-Road with questions about suspension upgrades, new bumpers, fenders, new tires, etc. We enjoy taking about Jeep upgrades, local Jeep clubs, and trails so a discussion may take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes. Somewhere during the conversations, we’ll get a comment that goes something along the lines of, “I was talking to the salesman at the dealership and he told me that anything other than MOPAR components would void the warranty on my Jeep. Is this true?”

True or False?

That is a fantastic and very relevant question! The answer is a resounding “sort of”. Perhaps an example is the best way to illustrate this issue. If you were to purchase a brand new Jeep Wrangler today, with a 5 year warranty that covers the engine, transmission, cooling systems, electronic components, suspension and a bunch of other stuff, and then tomorrow you had Axleboy install a 4-inch Teraflex long-arm lift kit, the suspension portion of your factory warranty would be void. So, “Yes” there is, in fact, some truth behind that statement. The greatest deceptions always contain an element of truth.

Be aware that there are some salespeople that will claim any aftermarket upgrades completely strip and void the factory warranty. Most of the salespeople in this category are simply repeating what they’ve heard other salespeople say or they lack sufficient experience to know better, so they make up whatever sounds most profitable for them.

Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

The fact is, over 40 years ago, back in 1975, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) passed legislation as part of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act to ensure you have the freedom to choose aftermarket upgrades and parts without having your warranty stripped or terminated.

What does this mean?

Simply put, when you upgrade to aftermarket suspension, the dealership cannot void the warranty on your engine, electronics, cooling system and other covered components. All of those other systems and components remain covered for the duration of the warranty term. If a dealership believes upgrading one component caused failure in a different area they may deny a warranty claim, but first they are required to prove correlation between the aftermarket upgrade and the other covered item (ie. Engine, Transmission, Differential, etc.)

It is illegal to deny coverage or void a factory warranty based on the use of aftermarket parts. If a dealer has denied your claim under a new-vehicle warranty and you believe it is in violation of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a complaint can and should be filed online with the Federal Trade Commission .

The post Will Upgrades Void My Jeep Warranty? appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

The Ins & Outs of Regearing Your Jeep

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 20:34:00 GMT

Regearing Your Jeep. If you own a Jeep, there’s a good chance you’ve already heard about re-gearing — but do you know what it actually entails and if it’s right for your 4×4? What do gears even do? Would you know the right time to re-gear? Our pros break it down for you.

What do gears do?

The gears that were factory-installed in your Jeep are designed to fit the ratio and the torque of the package your vehicle came with. “Gearing” itself refers to the number of teeth in your ring and pinion gears, and this number is a measurement of how many times your driveshaft has to rotate in order to spin your wheels once. Driveshafts connect to the axle shafts on pinion gears. When your drive shaft rotates, the pinion gear spins the ring gears which, in turn, spin your axle shafts, making your vehicle move.

So what does that actually mean?

An example: A standard gear ratio is 3.21. With that size, your driveshaft would have to turn about 3 ¼ times for your wheel to turn once. 4.10 gears mean the driveshaft rotates a little over 4 times to get your wheels to turn, and so on. Short gears mean it’s faster to shift into top speed with less torque, while long or tall gears offer lower speeds but much better fuel economy.

How do I know which kind of gear I need?

Think about shorter gears for rock-climbing; they turn slower and offer more grip on rock. If you’re a mudder, consider taller gears that keep up wheel speed and traction. This option is also great for road racers tackling long-and-straights. Track racers need to stick with short gears that help with bursts of speed coming out of corners. Ultimately it’s important to talk with your installer and tap into their Jeep knowledge bank to customize gears for your vehicle.

Why re-gear?

When you upgrade to larger tires, you’re also altering the fuel efficiency and safety of your vehicle, so your gear ratio needs to reflect this change. Without re-gearing, these larger tires can negatively affect performance and drastically slow down your vehicle. Choose the new gears based on the diameter of the new tires. Use this handy equation and then round up to the closest standard gear ratio:

(Old Gear Ratio x New Tire Size)/Old Tire Size = New Gear Ratio

How do I prepare for re-gearing?

Aside from making sure to work with an experienced pro to find the correct gears, it’s important to understand the re-gearing process itself. Front and rear axles need to be re-geared simultaneously. This is important because a significant difference in speed of drive shafts can cause serious issues like broken axles, driveshafts, or excessive wear and tear. This is a labor-intensive job, so plan accordingly when it comes to vehicle downtime and overall costs. You do not want to skimp on re-gearing!

Who should perform my re-gearing?

Ultimately you should take this project to a professional who has experience with custom Jeeps and re-gearing. We don’t doubt that you would do just fine on your own if you’ve already tackled this as a DIY project, but why risk it? The pros have the tools and expertise to get the job done. And if they’ve already done other custom projects on your Jeep they’re already familiar with the vehicle.

What does the re-gearing process entail?

When looking for a professional to help re-gear your Jeep, make sure they replace both the front and rear axles of your Jeep with premium quality gears. Typical new gear ratios are 4.10:1, 4.56:1, 4.88:1, or 5.13:1. Services should also include the following:

What happens after re-gearing?

Depending on the recommendations from manufacturers (and installers) you may need to avoid off-roading for about 500 miles. If your Jeep isn’t a daily driver, it might be smart to wait until the off-season to re-gear and wait a bit before taking any major road trips. You’ll want to drive on familiar roads for a bit before taking it off-road to make sure the gears are correct and allow for any adjustments.

Ready to re-gear? Our customers report that gear upgrades from Axleboy result in:

Axleboy Off-Road is proud to get your Jeep performance back in peak driving conditions by upgrading the differential gears to the optimal ratio for your custom Jeep.

The post The Ins & Outs of Regearing Your Jeep appeared first on Axleboy Offroad - St Louis .

Can You Install These Jeep Parts For Me?

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 19:31:00 GMT

Install These Jeep Parts. Every so often we’ll have a customer come in with a Jeep full of parts that they just ordered online and ask us how much it will cost to have it all installed. We are excited that people continue to take an interest in modifying their Jeeps and that our reputation for quality workmanship has spread throughout the Jeep community. We don’t like to turn away opportunities to work on Jeeps, but several years ago we adopted a fairly standard industry policy regarding parts installation. Our installation policy, in its most basic form, is this:

We do not install customer supplied parts.

Regardless if you purchased your parts direct from Jeep or through Quadratec, e-bay, Amazon or Craigslist, we simply don’t install customer supplied parts. For those interested in knowing the “why” behind this policy, we offer a general explanation below.

Installing Customer Supplied Parts is Bad for Business.

We’re not saying that the stuff customers find online is cheap or low quality or that it won’t work. Plenty of people buy stuff online, install it in their garage and are perfectly happy. We are happy for these folks and enjoy spending time on the trails with them.

But the reasons we don’t install customer supplied parts are both legal and business in nature. In terms of legality, the state of Missouri holds shops (like Axleboy) responsible for all aspects of a job, including parts and labor, regardless of where the parts originate. So, even if we, as a shop, were to install a customer’s parts as specified by the manufacturer, if the part itself failed, legally, we would be held liable. It sounds ridiculous…until it happens.

From the business perspective, Axleboy and other professional shops exist because there is some element of profitability that allows us to purchase specific tools, pay certified technicians and maintain a brick and mortar location. Remove marginal profitability and reputable off-road shops will quickly disappear. That doesn’t sound like a very good business plan to us.

Our Reputation is Based on Quality. Quality People. Quality Parts. Quality Service.

At Axleboy, we work hard to build and maintain quality working-relationships with several aftermarket manufacturers, so that when parts don’t fit right or packages arrive with damaged or incomplete sets, we can still get the job done right and in a timely manner. Our sights are focused on total quality and customer satisfaction. When customers go to online vendors to save a couple of bucks, they unknowingly limit our ability to guarantee quality. This is a reputational risk that we are simply unwilling to accept.

We want you to know, that we don’t think anything less of people or Jeepers for purchasing parts online. But, please understand when we politely decline to install them.

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The Axleboy Offroad Story

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 12:37:15 GMT

So, I moved into the Jeep world in 1996. I started off at a Jeep dealer, and I quickly rose up. I was a shop foreman, working through the service department. In the early 2000s, one of my best friends bought a brand new Jeep Rubicon when it came out, and he took me out Jeeping with him, and within seconds I was hooked. I knew this was something I had to do.

I wanted to do it within the dealership environment. The owners of the dealership weren't really into that. They really just kind of had this "make cash now, and not worry about the long run". And for me, everything's about the future and about relationships. I decided to just do my own thing. I knew that I liked people, I knew I could work well, I knew I could do the customer service aspect, and of course, I knew Jeeps.

So, we started off tinkering around in a garage. We moved into our first small shop with one employee. My parents, they would come and work with me. My Dad and my Mom.

As we grew, we expanded quickly. Customer service paid off. Our people trusted us. They kept coming back: we'd build one Jeep, they'd get another Jeep; we'd build a second Jeep, they'd trade that one in; we'd build a third Jeep. And just on and on. A lot of our clients go back 15 years. A lot of our clients go back to my dealership days: they followed me over.

I don't believe in the "make a buck now" philosophy. It's not about "How many sales can we close today?" It's about how many relationships and how many longterm clients we can build, and then how do we keep them in the building? That's first and foremost here. Again, we ... Values-based is everything that we do. We know that if we do the right thing and if we help people, if we solve their challenges over and over again, they're going to keep coming back. And that's our goal: solve every challenge that they have in the best way possible.

What You Need to Know about New Jeep Tires!

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 12:32:18 GMT

When our jeeps are bought new they come out with an all season tire, and that all season tire it's really designed to work everywhere, drive, pavements, snow, ice, rain. They're designed to last a long time and they're designed to be quiet. They don't do us very much good off road, and so if you're planning on doing some trails, or you're getting into some mud, or some grassy fields, it's definitely not the choice.

The next step up from there is going to be an all terrain tire. The all terrain tire is going to have some more lugs in it, larger pieces that can grab a hold of things and get a bite. There is going to be a lot of rain siping in there. That's going to be those small thin cuts that are in there. The all terrain tires are going to stay pretty quiet. They're not going to hear them much on the highway. They're typically going to have a mileage warranty, a 50, 60,000 mile tire, that kind of thing. The ride quality is pretty strong.

The drawback to that all-terrain tires is it's going to fill up with mud, so if you were to get in a muddy situation, or if you were to have a rock ledge you needed to climb up with the lugs may not be opened up quite enough. In that mud situation, the tread is going to pack with mud, and so it's not going to clean out to get the next bite.

The next step up from there would be what we consider a hybrid tire. That's a really nice cross between an all-terrain and a mud terrain tire, so we have characteristics of both. And if you look at the tread you'll typically find the center line of the tread is going to be more like an all terrain, but on the outer edge of a tire we're going to have some of those larger mud lugs that can get in there and get a bite and that'll clean out if you get them spinning and full of mud. It is not the best all terrain tire, it's not the best mud tire, but it's a really nice cross section. These tires remain quiet as well.

The next step up from there is going to be your mud terrain tire. Now, this tire is going to have a little bit of sound to it on the highway. For some people this might be really annoying, and for others that are going to have the top off it may not matter, but it is something we want to make sure you're aware of. Most of the technology is still pretty decent that I consider them usable on a daily driven vehicle. Once we get into the mud terrain tire, we're going to lose the mileage guarantees and the road hazard. In our experience, you can expect anywhere between 40 to up to let's say 50,000 miles.

As they get older, they tend to be prone to chop up a little bit and that can make them even louder, so it's really critical that you stay on top of your tire maintenance with a mud tire. It's not something you're going to put on and just forget about it for 60,000 miles. It's something that you're going to have to rotate all the time. You're going to have to stay on top of your tire alignments, your wheel alignments to keep these things from chopping up. You're going to need to balance them on a regular basis, and that'll extend their life, and of course keep them quieter.

The next step up is going to be what we consider to be a dedicated off road tire. I genuinely don't recommend these for daily drivers. They're not going to be any good in the rain, and the snow, borderline dangerous, I would say. There is almost no rain technology in them. Now these are going to have really large lugs and they're going to be able to grab on to rock faces and ledges. They're going to be able to throw mud out pretty quickly and not pack up. And from the off road perspective, I think they're probably a great tire, but if you regularly travel more than 35 an hour, I think you're going to hate them because they're genuinely not round and they don't balance very well, so we consider those more suited for just off road vehicles only.

When looking at a tire we'll look at the general size, the width, the tread design, the pattern, and what it's designed to do. We need to figure out where that client, where they're going to drive, and how they're going to drive, and make sure that we get a tire that fits into that cross section.

Axlegirl Offroad

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 12:02:52 GMT

Here at Axleboy, we have found that a lot more women are getting into the Jeeping lifestyle. We want to make them feel welcome. We want to get their questions answered. We build trust with them and making sure that they feel that they can come to Axleboy and get the service and quality that they're looking for. One thing that we often hear is that at other places or dealerships, they just didn't feel respected, or they didn't get their questions answered. We make sure that that does not happen here at Axleboy.

We make every Jeep enthusiast feel welcome. We have our hardcore wheelers who spends thousands of dollars only to take their Jeep out West to go wheeling, and then we have our daily driver folks who just come in and are looking for simple cosmetic upgrades. We welcome everyone here. We definitely welcome the women here. If you have questions you don't know the answers, we always make sure that we get you the answers that you need to understand why you would do that upgrade, the importance of it, the safety factor of it, and the cost. As when it comes to maintenance and mechanical issues, we definitely make sure that it is well-explained what failed, how much it's going to cost to repair it, and why that's important.

Customers come in and often state that they heard their factory could be void if they do modifications, lift kits, et cetera. That in fact is not true. Your factory bumper-to-bumper warranty stays in place. It just doesn't cover the modified parts in regards to a lift kit or oversized tires, but there is legislation in place that protects you so your bumper-to-bumper warranty is still in fact intact. To learn more, visit us at axleboy.com, and we also have Axlegirl Trail Life and Axleboy Trail Life on Facebook.

Jeep LifeStyle

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 11:53:45 GMT

One of our favorite things about some of our clients is that they just love the Jeep lifestyle. They like putting the top down, taking the doors off that open-air, outdoor experience. here at AxleBoy OffRoad, we'll work with many different styles of clients. Whether that's the jeep lifestyle client that's put the top down, take the doors off, go for a cruise on a sunny day. Maybe heading up to Utah, doing some four-wheeling, one out in Moab, maybe rooftop tent to go on the back roads and get that camping or fishing spot. Putting some kayaks on the top, maybe hanging a mountain bike off the back. All these different lifestyles. Somebody that's hauling kids to school, going to the soccer game, we're going to build a jeep entirely different in that situation. We're going to focus on things like drivability and safety, how it handles, what's going to happen when they have to make an evasive maneuver on the highway.

You can be sure that AxleBoy OffRoad and our team of professionals is there to find out how you want to use your jeep and then make the recommendations that are going to get you there and back safely. Many of our clients at AxleBoy, they're not necessarily into-four wheeling or off-roading. Or maybe they're just getting into it and they enjoy and they feel comfortable to come in because we're not judging anybody. It doesn't matter to us whether they have mechanical knowledge or know everything about the Jeep world or maybe they don't know everything about the Jeep world. It's important to us to treat everybody the same. We're often told that the other area shops will almost be cocky or make them feel uncomfortable when they come in because they don't know all the details but here at AxleBoy, we're all about teaching the details.

We want to share our passion of the sport with you and we work with the client. We work in a longterm relationship. That relationship is built entirely on trust. The clients come in, they know that we're going to recommend what they need, not just fancy parts to fill the ticket or pad that ticket and make it bigger. Everything that we do is revolved around each individual customer and the different way they might use their Jeep, whether that's going to the mall or going out to Moab, Utah, it doesn't matter. They're all the same guys. They're our friends and we expect we're gonna work with them for a long time. We know how to make these things handle. A lot of times people come in and talk about it's lifted Jeep. This is just how they drive, and that's the furthest thing from the truth. What we specialize in here is an extremely safe and predictable driving style many times better than it was when it rolled off the factory floor. We really know what works, what doesn't, and we know how to make it fit your lifestyle.