FTE 4x4

DELTA... THE RIGHT LIGHT...

2011-11-25T01:19:00.000Z

FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd. is please to announce that they are now a dealer for Delta Tech Industries otherwise known as Delta Lights, they offer a very diverse range of lights covering all aspects of vehicle lighting especially Jeeps. Below is just a sample of what they have on offer specifically for the Wrangler TJ & JK, to check out there full range of lights go to Delta Lights website.

The Delta Quad bar Xenon Hi/Low Headlight Set for Wrangler TJ and JK with city light (side light) has built-in steel armour protecting the element. The series come with an adapter converting H4 system to H13.The headlights feature lead-crystal prismatic glass lens, vacuum metalized steel reflectors and rubber boot to seal from dust and moisture. It will outperform factory headlights 4 to1. They are also “E” Marked which makes them legal for use in the UK.

Delta Windshield T-Bracket Set was designed specifically for Jeep Wrangler both the TJ and JK. They are constructed of machined billet aircraft aluminium and use existing windshield bolt holes and thus requiring NO DRILLING. The brackets were designed for universal application and every brand of lights.

Delta Hood Light Bar was specifically developed for Jeep Wrangler JK & TJ 1997-11. It was designed to complement the Delta SkyBar and vehicle exterior design using the existing factory bolt holes thus requiring NO DRILLING. The Hood Bar is constructed of plasma cut powder coated steel cross bar and machined billet aluminium mounting arms. The Bar offers a vertical swivel for precision aiming and it comes with pre-terminated 3 (ea) Xenon 55 Watt driving lights producing an impressive beam of light for night trail adventures. Total draw 13.75 Amps, also available with 6000K HID driving lights producing an incredible powerful white “daylight” beam of light for night trail adventures. Total draw 8.75 Amps. The lights come equipped with hard plastic covers. The set is also equipped with a complete OEM harness, relay, switch and fuse.

Delta fender Light Set was specifically designed for Jeep Wrangler both TJ and JK. The set is well integrated with headlamp and fender design. It is constructed from 13 ga. powder coated plasma cut steel encasing 3” dia. waterproof xenon driving lights or Delta 6000K HID system, which will produce an impressive long range white, near daylight bright light for any type of night driving. Each light offers a full micro-adjustment for aiming. They mount to existing bolts on each front fender. NO DRILLING required.

Delta Bumper Driving Lamp Set for the Wrangler JK is an upgrade to factory low wattage fog lamps. The Xenon 55 Watt driving lamps are configured into the billet aluminium face rings which provide micro adjustment for horizontal and vertical aiming. The Driving Light set comes with its own upgraded stand-alone OEM wire harness, Illuminated switch, relay and fuse. These lights will give you an increased long-range visibility when driving on narrow trails or in any adverse weather condition. Also available with the Delta 6000K HID system

SkyBar™ - Wrangler Light Bar JK &TJ

Delta SkyBar was specifically designed for Jeep Wrangler TJ and JK. It is constructed of machined Billet Aluminium mounting arms and spacers and plasma cut 13 ga. Steel cross bar holding a battery of 6 xenon driving lights. The integrated design of the SkyBar complements the roof-line and the unique lines on Jeep Wrangler. It is designed to allow garage clearance with any lifts. The bar does not interfere with any roof, soft or hard top. The bar features a built-in deflector to eliminate glare. The light bar is wired to allow 3 phases of operation 2, 4 and all 6 lights for your full control in using just the right amount of light power from 110W to 330W with the max. Draw of 27.5Amp. The light bar offers a precision vertical aiming adjustment. The mounting billet arms attach to the side by the windshield to existing bolt holes thus requiring NO DRILLING. The SkyBar comes complete pre-wired with an OEM double harness, two switches, relays, fuses and all necessary hardware.

As I said at the begin of this article this is a very small selection of the lights that Delta have on offer, so please check out there website to see the full range. Once you have seen a light set-up you like make a note of the part numbers and drop me an email at info@fte.co.uk or give me a ring on 07973 198483 for prices and delivery. I have met the guys behind this company and there enthusiasm for there product is great as are there products.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,JK,TJ,Off-Road,Lights,Light-Bars,Spots,Upgrades,Delta-Lights,HID,Xenon,SkyBar,Hood-Mount

Heavy Duty Front Ball Joint Sets For the Dana 30 /44 Axles

2011-11-17T00:20:00.000Z

Fed up having to replace the knuckle ball joints on your Jeep because they just don’t seem to last, running over size tyres and off-set wheels puts a lot more strain on the knuckle ball joints. When you see what is inside the stock Jeep ball joint you will understand why they wear out so quick. The photo below shows a pair of stock ball joints stripped down.Well Synergy Suspension have the answer with there new heavy duty ball joint sets, available for the Jeep Wrangler JK, TJ/LJ, YJ, Cherokee XJ, and Grand Cherokee ZJ & WJ (Dana 30/44). Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design.

Designed to replace the factory ball joint that is prone to premature failure on lifted vehicles with large off-road tires
Fully greasable sintered metal on bushing design that has high wear resistance
Outperforms the factory ball joint assembly
Ball joint boot is made from tear/wear resistant polyurethane
Includes all necessary hardware for installation
Single Set includes: (1) upper, (1) lower
Complete Set includes: (2) upper, (2) lower
12 Month Unlimited-Warranty

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd 07973 198483, who are now dealers for Synergy Suspension.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,Cherokee,Grand Cherokee,JK,TJ,XJ,YJ,ZJ,WJ,Off-Road,Suspension,Axle,Steering

New Products at the SEMA Show

2011-11-02T06:02:00.001Z

They say the simple ideas are the best, from Vertically Driven Products comes a rubbish bin & cup holder, this unit fits into the rear existing cup holders. Unlike other products on the market this items will still give you a couple of cup holders as well. Available for Wrangler JK 2007 – 2012.

A new snorkel for the Wrangler JK will soon be available from Wild Boar, at present in the prototype stage but looking good, as soon as more information is available it will be here.

Rugged Ridge new aluminium front bumper for the Wrangler JK, weighting in at only 26.9lbs in standard configuration, when fitted with the hoop over rider, stubby ends & winch mount plate overall weight is 62.6lbs

For more information contact Steve at FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd, on info@fte.co.uk

Not All Wheel Spacers Are The Same

2011-10-20T23:30:00.000+01:00

Recently I had a Cherokee XJ brought into me with some strange noises and even stranger handling, the ability for it to go in a straight line above 20mph was almost none existent without some serious sawing on the steering wheel! At first glance underneath nothing jumped out, the wheels did have a little bit of negative camber, but I have seen a lot worst. First point to check was the wheel hubs, but as soon as I removed the front wheels the true horror was apparent.

To push the stock wheels out to give clearance for the 31x10.50 tyres wheel spacers had been fitted, not normally a problem, if the they are the correct type and fitted correctly. But these particular spaces I have not seen fitted to vehicles since the late 70’s early 80’s. They use a screw on stud extension that is tightened onto the original hub / disc then a hollow cast spacer is slid over the extension studs and the wheels then fitted back on. They work, but are definitely not designed to be used for big tyre set-ups or off-road use.

In this instance they were dangerous, as they had not been fitted correctly, (the work had not been carried out by the current owner, he had only just taken possession of the Cherokee) as you can see from the photos the screw on extensions did not have a deep enough bore to allow them to be tighten on to the hub. So when the spacer plate was fitted it was floating, with the wheel fitted it pulled up against the hex section of stud extension so the whole loading was being placed on the five hexes, allowing the wheel to basically flex on the extension studs. This did not only cause the steering to wander, but put a lot of strain on the hubs and brakes as the discs were not clamped tight to the hubs, it caused excessive wear to the brake pads and discs which had to be changed. One hub survived the ordeal the the other was replaced.

New Rugged Ridge billet spacers were fitted. These are constructed of double anodized black extra thick 6061T6 Aluminium for long life and extra corrosion resistance. All hardware is grade 8 for extra strength. They include 10 pre-installed grade 8 wheel studs, 10 lug nuts and thread locker. So as you can see from the photos below not all wheel spacers are the same!

FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd can supply the Rugged Ridge spacers, for more information send us an email to info@fte.co.uk

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Rugged Ridge,Off-Road,Wheel,Spacers,Handling,Wrangler,Cherokee

More Clearance For Under JK Rear Shock Mounts

2011-09-19T23:08:00.000+01:00

If you own a Wrangler JK then you must have seen how low the the shock mounts sit on the rear axle, normally the pumpkin part of the axle is the lowest part but in the case of the Wrangler JK it is also the shock mounts.

Now there are many kits on the market that will raise the lower shock mounts on the axle, a very good example is Synergy Suspension units, it raises lower shock mount 1-3/8" higher than stock. Bolt-on design that strengthens the factory control arm mount and also provides a skid plate for the lower controls arm mount. In all one neat little package.

The only problem with raising the lower shock mounts is now your shock are to long and there is a good chance that the shock will now bottom out. One option would be to fit taller bump stops but this will limit the suspension travel. Well Synergy Suspension have the answer to this, in the form of a new upper shock mount, that is a bolt-in fit and will raise the upper shock mount by 2” (50mm), gain back the travel lost with raising the lower mounts. The brackets come powder-coated with all necessary hardware to install. Modification of stock exhaust will be needed to clear the factory sway bar.

Another option to improve the shock location and to stop the usually problem of the top bar pin is to use a bar-pin eliminator, Synergy Suspension make a neat bracket that works well with there upper shock brackets, although it could be used on the stock mounts just to get rid of the problem that occurs with the top bar pin mount.

FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd. will soon be offering Synergy Suspension components to the UK, this is only a very small selection of the components they have. They cover most models of Jeep, TJ,JK, YJ,XJ, & ZJ and have some rather interesting parts on offer. As they say “watch this space”.

Synergy Suspension JK Rear Shock Mounts

VIEW SLIDE SHOW

DOWNLOAD ALL

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,JK,Suspension,Off-Road,Synergy-Suspension,Shocks

Wrangler Resurrection is alive and kicking

2011-07-07T00:13:00.001+01:00

Back at the beginning of February I wrote a blog about an old Wrangler and a new project called “Wrangler Resurrection” well it has not been forgotten, it is just that work has got extremely busy (no complaints) so my projects get moved onto the back burner. But I have been collecting parts ready to start, the rear suspension is going to be the first item to get a makeover. The Wrangler is already fitted with a Rubicon Express long arm kit, but to upgrade the rear suspension I am going to convert it over to a triangulated upper link, and remove the rear trac-bar. This should free up the suspension giving greater articulation, I am going to use a Rock Krawler weld-on rear axle mount and brace.

The upper spring mounts are also going to be altered using the
Black Diamond's Coil Correction Kit, this will corrects the curvature of the rear spring. Meaning they can do there job more efficiently, the problem is even evident at 3" of lift height, and becomes more of an issue as lift height increases. This incorrect coil loading results in lost ride height and a diminished "too soft" spring rate.

I Another item on the rear that is going to get modified is the shock mounts, at present I am undecided with which manufacturer to go with, but the intent is to turret the shocks outboard of the chassis. This will allow for greater articulation, and I will be using a Currie Enterprise coil spring retainer kit to make sure I do not pop any springs.

As for the front suspension I would like to convert over to coil overs, as I intend to change the front axle, to a high pinion unit then this will be the time I would do the work. There are many kits on the market to do this, again I am looking at using the Rock Krawler set-up. This involves cutting off the original spring/shock mounts from the chassis and welding in complete new mounts. Part of my reason to convert over to this style of front suspension is with the front diff angled correctly, the springs are bowed a considerable amount with with a 5.5” lift. One option is to cut the spring mounts of the axle and reposition them, but that seems like the ideal time to think of an upgrade!

Another item that is getting a serious makeover is the steering linkage, as once a Wrangler TJ (or a Cherokee XJ and Grand Cherokee ZJ) is lifted more then 4” then the steering is a compromise. There are many kits on the market is you own a LHD Jeep, but for us RHD owners the market is very limited. For the pass 12 months I have been trying different configurations and I am at long last very close to an answer. My main itinerary was it should be a bolt-on set-up, with the minimum of part changes, so it could be done by an owner of a vehicle rather then having to take the vehicle to a specialist workshop. As soon as I have tested the set-up, ( I have plenty of volunteers who want to test it for me) and am happy with the results, I will be publishing it here first. So as they say watch this space.

All parts that I am using in this project are available from FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd so if you have any questions then feel free to contact me. Also don’t forget to check out our face book page

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,Suspension,FTE 4x4 Specialists,Rock Krawler,Rubicon Express,Steering

Independence Day: Mopar readies the Jeep Wrangler JK8 Independence Kit

2011-06-28T00:46:00.001+01:00

So you want a Wrangler Pick-up truck, well as last Mopar are going to launch the JK-8 conversion kit, read more below.

The JK-8 gets a launch date. For those of you that have been patiently awaiting more details concerning Mopar’s Jeep Wrangler JK-8 Independence Kit, since it debuted in April at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, you can look forward to more than just fireworks July 4th weekend. The JK-8 Kits will be available at select dealerships beginning July 4th weekend.

Jeep and Mopar are pushing hard on suppliers to have 100 of the kits available by July 4th, a source within Mopar’s development team revealed. In all Jeep has 1000 of the kits in production, and is working hard to coincide the JK8 Independence’s launch with our country’s own Independence Day.

No word yet, on product mix of how many kits will be bolt on versus weld on. We assume that all 100 kits available on July 4th will be the less expensive and easier to install bolt on version. The bolt on kit will have a retail of just under $5,000. No word yet on the Mopar part number or which dealership will receive the initial kits. -But we can tell you the kits will come with a Mopar certificate of authenticity and die cast aluminium fender emblems bearing the “JK-8″ ensignia, similar to those used on the 1981-1986 Jeep CJ8 Scrambler.

The name of the pickup truck conversion kit and the July 4th Independence Day launch were apparently planned late last year. The move to name the JK8 Kit “Independence” is a nod to Jeep’s historical significance during World War II and coincides with Jeep’s own 70th Anniversary.

Watch a time lapsed build of the JK8 performed by the Mopar team at the recent Easter Jeep Safari in Moab:

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,JK,JK-8,Mopar

May not contain all you need!

2011-06-12T19:07:00.002+01:00

Recently I was asked if I could check over a Cherokee that had a 3” lift kit fitted, to make sure bolts were torqued correctly, and such like. Once I had the Jeep on the ramp I gave it a good look over and a couple of items came to light very quickly one was serious. As you can see from the photo the suspension is almost on full drop with hardly any steering lock, and the brake line is ready tight and pulling. As you can imagine in an off-road situation with the Jeep articulated up and full lock being put on I doubt very much that the brake line would hold. Resulting in no front brakes not an ideal position to be in. So when fitting a lift kit it is always a good idea to cycle the suspension through its full travel and check. That way the next problem I found would have come to light as well.
The second problem I found was, there were no front bumpstop extensions fitted, now this is not as serious a problem as with the brake lines, but can still end up costing money. The gap between the the axle pad and the bumpstop on the front suspension with the vehicle sitting at rest was 4.75” the length of the shock rod left showing was 4”. So before the bumpstop can do it work at full compression the shock would bottom out and would act as the bumpstop. This would eventually end up damaging the piston rod and valve, resulting in new shocks being needed.
Not all suspension kits have all the parts you require in the box so to say when fitting the lift. Just because the parts are not in the box does not mean that you do not need them. When buying a lift kit if you are not sure ask, if they recommend any other components that may be required, it could end up saving you a lot of money in the long run and giving you a reliable rig as well.
If you have questions regarding your Jeep suspension, then give me a ring at FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd. We can always advise and point you in the right direction.

C2ZN72Q53WMV Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,Cherokee,Suspension,Shocks,Brakes,Articulation,Bumpstops,Lifts,FTE 4x4 Specialists

Back to Basic “What is a SYE?”

2011-05-30T00:31:00.001+01:00

Recently I have had a couple of guys that are just getting into Jeeping with stock Wrangler TJ’s (Yes there are still a few around) and one of the first questions I get asked is “What is a slip yoke eliminator (SYE) or short shaft conversion).

So here is the one on one on the SYE, there are a few different versions around but basically they are do the same job. They eliminate the sliding yoke joint on the transfer box end of the rear prop shaft, why would you want to do that? Well if you look at the rear prop shaft on the Wrangler TJ and YJ (not so much the YJ) it is very short and once you lift the suspension 2+” (50+mm) the angle the prop will run at will cause problems maybe vibration and at full articulation the yoke could bind.

The stock set-up on a Wrangler TJ.

The shaft that the stock sliding yoke runs on.

The heavy duty slip yoke eliminator fitted.

The SYE installed in the Wrangler and fitted with a new prop shaft, note that the sliding joint is now in the prop shaft tube. Also using a double UJ joint (Americans refer to this as a CV joint) on the transfer box end allows for a lot more articulation so eliminating bind on higher lifts.

Another advantage of fitting a Heavy Duty SYE is the increase in strength of the output shaft, as you can see from the photo below the increase diameter of the shaft.

As I said at the beginning of this article there are many different versions on the SYE, some involve cutting the stock shaft down, drilling and fitting a flange. Another version does away with the speedo drive cog converting to impulse output but also making the short shaft conversion about 1.5” shorter allowing for a longer prop shaft which helps with the higher lifts.

So if you are think of lifting your Wrangler more then a couple of inches then you are probably going to need a SYE so for more information or advice contact FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,TJ,YJ,off-road,SYE,Short shaft conversion,Slip yoke eliminator,prop shaft

J33P in Normade

2011-05-24T11:53:00.000+01:00

For the past few days I have been in France with J33P Off-Road Adventure club on the Friday it was green laning lead by fwdfwd.com some great lanes, with a few water crossing not very deep as they have not had any rain in the region for a couple of months but still entertaining as the photos show.

On the Saturday and Sunday it was off to fwdfwd.com site for some more challenging routes. At there site they have a great range of terrain, as based in a valley it has some very steep climbs and descents, along with some rock crawling and of cause water. Below are some photos curtsey of Ivan Morley showing what a great time was had by all. Thanks to everyone involved in organising the event, it ran like clockwork.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,Cherokee,FTE 4x4 Specialists ltd

View Full Album

If you are interested in getting involved off-road then take a look at J33P site which is sponsored by FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd

Looking for that extra storage space in your Wrangler?

2011-04-28T02:04:00.001+01:00

Introducing the Rugged Ridge® Overhead Storage Console for 1987-11 Jeep® Wrangler

Always looking for an extra storage place in your Wrangler to store your sunglasses, maps, gloves and other stuff that ends up on your floorboards, or worse yet lost?
The Rugged Ridge Overhead Storage Console is the storage solution you have been waiting for! It instantly turns the area underneath your top into usable storage space without any interference or modification to your vehicle. Fits all 1987-2011 Jeep® Wranglers! Works with soft tops, hardtops, the top up, or the top down. The Overhead Storage Console is a fully enclosed storage compartment that installs easily without any tools or drilling. It is constructed from durable blow moulded High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), so it is safer and lighter than steel. A non-skid pad is adhered to the inside of the console to help keep your gear from sliding around, and a mesh storage net helps keep it safely stowed yet easily accessible. The console measures 41.5”x2.5”x6.5” and offers more than 450 cubic inches of storage.

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,TJ,JK,YJ,Rugged Ridge

Time for an upgrade?

2011-04-12T21:28:00.002+01:00

The photo below shows a UJ from a Wrangler TJ front half shaft, which was only fitted 9 months ago! The corrosion is not due to lack of maintenance, as this particular UJ is classed as maintenance free or more commonly known as sealed for life ( in this case not a very long life). On a road going vehicle that does not see any real off-road use this type of UJ could last years, I know one guy with a Cherokee XJ that has never change the UJ’s and it is 16 years old and they are still in good condition!

The reason for the premature wear & corrosion is basically the ingress of water into the cups. How does this happen so quickly? You can see the seals look in good condition! When driving to the shops or work the UJ’s heat up expanding the grease and pushing any air trapped in the cups out. This is not normally a problem, as when you park up at your destination the UJ’s cool, the grease contracts and it pulls air back into the cups. When you arrive at the off-road site you drop into low box and trundle off hitting mud holes water splashes and such like. The UJ’s are cooled down by the water hitting them and the grease inside the cups cools and contracts pulling in whatever surrounds the UJ’s. Water, a water-sand mix, water-mud mix. So starts the rapid detrition of the UJ’s, and as these are sealed unless you strip the UJ out, which is not an easy job, there is no way in which to grease the UJ and push the dirt/grit out.
There were some UJ’s that were cross drilled with a grease nipple (red arrow) but this caused an inherent weakness and they often broke across the middle (in off-road use). There are a few heavy duty UJ’s available such as CTM, but these are not designed for long road use at high speed. So what is a good alterative to the stock Spicer UJ? Alloy-USA make a UJ that fits the bill, serviceable flush grease nipples at each cap allows you to flush grime and fill with grease. Made of cold forged steel composition made of chromium, molybdenum and nickel alloy, with a hardened case for excellent wear resistance. These UJ’s are not a lot more expensive than the stock Spicer units, but if maintained will last and give years of trouble free miles.

So the next time you are stripping down the front axle to pull the half shafts to change out the UJ’s why not upgrade to a serviceable unit. Its is a lot easier to pump a bit of grease into a UJ then replace it!
For more information and prices contact Steve at FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd. on 01268 730131/07973 198483 or email steve@fte.co.uk

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,Cherokee,Axle,Off-Road,UJ's,Dana 30,Dana 44,TJ,XJ,ZJ,JK

Replacement Bushings for Rubicon Express Control Arms

2011-04-02T11:35:00.001+01:00

Daystar is now offering heavy-duty polyurethane bushings available to replace the rubber hourglass bushings used in the company's long-arm and short-arm kits. Specially formulated from a unique new blend of polyurethane, these bushings have much of the same elasticity as the original rubber bushings, yet are capable of surviving the most demanding off-road conditions.

Designed as direct replacements for the larger and smaller "hourglass" bushings used in upper and lower Rubicon Express control arms, no modifications to the arms themselves will be needed and even the original sleeves can be re-used. They are packaged in sets of eight; four large and four small bushings in each kit.

As soon as these are available we shall be stocking these at FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd. We are hoping to be able to supply the bushes individually, rather then as set of 8.

Technorati Tags: Rubicon Express,DayStar,FTE 4x4 Specialists,Wrangler,TJ,XJ,ZJ,JK,Bushes

Metal Cloak Frame Built Bumpers

2011-03-31T00:39:00.001+01:00

This is a short video showing Metal Cloak’s frame built bumpers, which we at FTE 4x4 Specialists ltd. will soon be importing.
This is a modular bumper design, with so many options it is mind blowing, take a look at the animated gif below the video for a sample of what is available.

For all enquirers contact FTE 4x4 Specialists ltd. or email info@fte.co.uk also find us on facebook

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,TJ,YJ,JK,FTE 4x4 Specialits,bumper,winch,Metal Cloak

FTE 4x4 Specialists is now a dealer for Rock Krawler

2011-03-23T20:38:00.002Z

FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd. is now a dealer for Rock Krawler suspension, we shall be offering there full line of lift systems, along with many of there build components. They offer lift kits for all the Wrangler series YJ, TJ, LJ & JK, Cherokee XJ and Grand Cherokee WJ, WK.

As you can see from these photos there suspension does not lack for articulation. They do many upgrade components that will work in conjunction with other suspension systems, I shall be upgrading the suspension on our project Wrangler Resurrection using there rear axle truss and flex & Krawler joints.
For all your enquirers please contact FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd. Email:- info@fte.co.uk or phone 01268 730131 / 07973 198483.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,TJ,JK,YJ,Cherokee,XJ,WJ,WK, Rock Krawler,FTE,Suspension,Articulation

A Wrangler JK with rather trick suspension.

2011-03-14T01:26:00.000Z

Built by Creative Motor Sports with Fully Adjustable Independent Suspension. IFS trucks have lighter foot print pressure than a 150lb man standing on the same ground.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,JK,V8

Tides Out (When was the last time you checked your diff oil?)

2011-03-11T01:32:00.000Z

So when was the last time you checked your diff oil? A lot of people undo the filler plug and as soon as they see fluid (the reason I say fluid is it might be black but that does not mean it is oil) running out they screw the plug back in and the check is over it has oil! What is running out might well be a mixture of water and oil don’t forget oil floats on water, so when you filled the diff you only filled it to the bottom edge of the filler hole. So why is it running out? Could it be that the axle has water in it, so pushing the oil up higher in the diff housing!

The photo above left shows what can happen when the oil is not check correctly. The photo above on the right shows the line the oil/water mix was sitting at almost 30mm about the bottom edge of the filler hole.

This is the damage that has been done to this diff housing the corrosion is very bad. Once the diff and carrier is stripped out an assessment can be made on the condition of the components and hopefully it will only need new bearings, still a cost that could have been avoided with regular oil changes.

An easy way to change the oil in the Dana axles is to use a LubeLocker no more having to prise the diff cover off, or scrapping of the old RTV. Available from FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,Cherokee,TJ,JK,XJ,ZJ,FTE 4x4 Specialits

A Tip for Wrangler JK’s Lifted with Rear Bowed Springs.

2011-03-01T00:04:00.000Z

When lifting a Wrangler JK more then 3 inches it is normal to fit adjustable upper control arms to give correct prop shaft alignment. This typically involves rotating the noise of the rear diff upwards, causing the rear springs to bow.

Now there are 2 options to correct this the first involves cutting the lower spring mounts off the axle and either if possible welding the originals back on at the correct angle or purchasing new mounts. The other option that is a easier method is to fit some wedges, although the first method is a better option the wedges do work well.

These little wedges are fitted between the spring and lower mount.

Not perfect but a vast improvement over the original set-up, as an added bonus the rear of the vehicle came up 3/4” due to the fact that the springs were now sitting up straighter.

For more information contact FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,JK,FTE4x4,Springs,Suspension,Axle

King of Hammers 2011

2011-02-17T02:30:00.001Z

Video by Desert Dog from JK Owners.com

Technorati Tags: King of Hammers,Off-Road,Jeep,Wrangler,JK

A New Style Snorkel for the Wrangler JK ?

2011-02-13T19:42:00.001Z

Rugged Ridge are developing a new style of snorkel for the Jeep Wrangler JK, at present it is in pro-type stage, and they are hoping to have it ready for the summer 2011. For now it is for the 3.8 V6 petrol engine, but as soon as it is released we shall get one over to see if it will work with the CRD engines. It will be a modular design, so a high level section will fit to the base part, also it will work with the Rugged Ridge screen light mounts and the Rugged Ridge light bar.

As soon as any news is available it will be posted here.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,JK,FTE4x4,Rugged Ridge,Snorkel

A New Year & A New Project (Well Almost)

2011-02-08T00:55:00.001Z

It is 15 years ago since I purchased my first Jeep a Wrangler TJ it was 3 months old, before I had even purchase the Wrangler I knew I was going to modify it. Up until that point I had always had Land Rovers, I had always wanted a Jeep but having moved on from the Series Land Rover onto the Defender I did not want to go back to leaf springs. I was at an off-road event at High Wycombe in 1996 with my girlfriend (now wife). She came over and told me about this Jeep that was giving a display in the arena, and how well it was going over the obstacles on its coil spring suspension, (after I explained to her that Jeeps used leaf springs, I then had to eat humble pies when she dragged me over to see) It was the new Jeep Wrangler TJ that was going to be launched in 1997, being driven by a gent call Barry Stellard from Jeep. After the display I went over to Barry to have a chat with him about the new Wrangler, after a long chat he invited me down to Dover were Jeep where based to have a look around.

So began my affair with the Wrangler and Jeep.

I still have my first Jade Wrangler a 4.0l Sport, over the years it has be lifted 3 times starting with a Pro-Comp kit which stayed on the vehicle for about 3 month, then moving onto Rubicon Express 4.5” short arm kit and then onto the Rubicon Express 5.5” long arm kit, which is still runs, it has many more modifications that I will list as this project evolves. Well I am sad to say that for the past 5 years it has sat in the corner of my yard being neglected, and somewhat forgotten about, as I have had other Jeeps (another TJ, a Cherokee XJ and a Wrangler JK) to play with, but I do miss driving it, and the looks it use get. So I have decided to give it a revamp and update.

So begins project Resurrection, progress will be slow, as I have to fit the work in between jobs and family (how things change!).

At Tixover off-road site, with the 4.5” short arm kit, sitting on 33 x 9.50 x 15 on Mach rims Justine driving (Wife).

Please check in at FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd to follow the project.

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,FTE,Rubicon-Express,off-Road

Wrangler JK H/D Rear Axle Spring Mounts

2011-02-02T21:11:00.000Z

Rubicon Express have available Wrangler JK heavy duty weld on spring mounts and bump-stop pads for the rear axle. The brackets are weld on only and allow corrected positioning for coils and bump-stops after rear pinion has been rolled up for proper drive shaft angle in lifted vehicles. Bump-Stop pad relocation will eliminate any interference with rear track bar bracket. HD Rear Coil bracket will eliminate rattling springs at full suspension droop with the screw down coil retainers.

RE9830

RE9831

For more details and prices contact steve@fte.co.uk at FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd

New products for 2011

2011-01-26T14:41:00.000Z

Technorati Tags: Jeep,Wrangler,TJ,JK,FTE

Wrangler TJ Upgrade

At last there is an answer to alleviate that problematic Wrangler TJ transfer case shifting mechanism! Advance Adapters now offers a heavy duty shifter designed to correct the binding, hard shifts, and slipping-out-of-gear that is inherent when lifting a Jeep TJ or when altering the drivetrain components. The kit replaces the body mounted mechanical system with a robust cable actuated designed that creates a crisp and carefree shifting experience with your transfer case.

Wrangler JK Upgrade:

Advance Adapters also offers a new deluxe cable shifter upgrade for Jeep JK vehicles. This new heavy duty design was created for the off roader who is constantly shifting the transfer case in and out of various ranges. The improved cable & mounting system offers both a durable and dependable system that removes the easily worn out or broken factory cable system.

For more information and pricing contact Steve at FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd

Congratulations to Dust Junkies Racing for their win at the 2010 Baja 1000

2010-12-10T01:17:00.000Z

Report courtesy of Rubicon Express

Congratulations go out to Dust Junkies Racing for their win at the 2010 Baja 1000. Their Jeep Wrangler #1706 fitted with an “off the shelf” Rubicon Express long arm suspension won 1st in it’s class. Team owner Scott Hartman was quoted earlier in the year saying “Rubicon Express is the only suspension that I would race with. We have over 5000 race miles on a TJ long arm kit with zero failures” I guess we can make it closer to 6500 race miles now that the Dust Junkies took the podium both days at the Bluewater challenge in Parker, AZ and have now finished this year’s gruelling 1000 miles of Baja! Read the entire Dust Junkies Race Report here

Bonnet Bounce on the Wrangler JK

2010-12-01T19:51:00.000Z

If you own a new style Wrangler JK you will know what I mean, get up to a speed in excess of 60mph and the bonnet starts to flutter, which can get a little unsettling. Daystar offer an upgrade for the stock bonnet latches that utilize a weak and stretch-prone rubber that is the cause of the problem. A suspension lift only aggravates the problem by allowing more air to push up on the underside of the bonnet. The daystar upgrade is a direct replacement for the factory rubber used in the bonnet latch. Constructed of a heavy-duty polyurethane material, they provide a more positive lock that keeps the bonnet securely shut regardless of vehicle speed. They utilize most of the factory bonnet latch components, so the upgrade looks factory once complete.

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialists Ltd.

2003 –2004 SEMA Pictures Posted

2010-11-05T02:04:00.001Z

Pictures from the SEMA Show 2003 & 2004 now posted on www.fte.co.uk including an interesting 6 wheel drive Wrangler TJ from UROC. Have a good Bonfire Night, more pictures tomorrow.

Pictures now posted

2010-11-03T00:39:00.001Z

Well the first 2 lots of photo’s have now been posted, ranging from 2007 – 2009, I have just been trawling through my hard drives and have found photo’s from SEMA dating back to 2003, boy have something's changed.

So please check out www.fte.co.uk and follow the link to SEMA Re-Visited

SEMA Re-Visited

2010-10-31T01:09:00.000Z

Well this year I am giving the SEMA Show a miss, I have been for the pass 7 years so I think that by not going this year will give me more enthusiasm for next year, also I do have a lot of Jeeps to work on at the moment. So what I have decided to do this year is to go through my collection of pictures from all the previous years and post some old favourites and ones that did not make it on to the site for lack of time & space.

So here is a taste from 2006, it will be interesting to see the changes in style and looks. The link on the site will become live on the 2nd November, so please check it out at www.fte.co.uk Thanks for looking. Steve

Some Day All 4x4’s Will Be Made Like This!!

2010-01-17T23:14:00.001Z

This link was sent to me by a friend Jules, just had to share.

Cams hydraulic Chain-drive 4x4, about 7 feet of up OR down motion on each tire: specs below Engine is a fuel injected Ford 5.0 V8 out of a '93 cobra mustang, c4 transmission and t-case out of an early bronco. 9" w/ 5.38 gears and ARB air locker mounted in the centre (below driver) running chain gears on the ends where the swing arms pivot. Swing arms are hydraulically controlled individually or together, and there is coil spring and shock suspension as well. large chains running inside the swing arms turn hummer gear reduction (2:1) hubs at each wheel. tires are 39.5". The steering is linked through the swing arms as well and the steering box is mounted just in front of the axle below the driver. body construction is steel tubing (mostly DOM) and the total weight is 5900 LB.

Happy New Year to All, Another product for the Wrangler TJ

2010-01-10T23:45:00.001Z

Happy new year to all, one of my new year resolutions is to try and update my blog at least twice a month. It’s just some times it gets a little hectic here and things get missed. Anyway here is a product that has come to my attention for lifted TJ Wranglers made by Black Diamond it corrects the curvature of the rear spring after a 3”+ lift.

The factory TJ rear springs are mounted in a "leaning forward" position, which causes the coils to bow excessively rearward once the Jeep is lifted, especially when the suspension compresses. The problem is evident at 3" of lift height, and becomes more of an issue as lift height increases. This incorrect coil loading results in lost ride height and a diminished "too soft" spring rate.

Black Diamond's new Coil Correction Kit includes a pair of weld-on frame brackets and replacement upper coil seats; enough for both sides of one TJ. The frame brackets have adjustment holes that permit the coils and compression travel-dampeners to be in the optimal up-right position, even with wheelbase increases of up to 2". Use with any lift brand, 3" and taller in height.

Welding is required to fit the parts.

This kit is available from FTE 4x4 Specialist’s Ltd. please call for your requirements.

SEMA Show over for another year.

2009-11-08T00:07:00.001Z

Well the SEMA show is over for another year, not bad but there were a lot of missing vendors, BFG were not there nor was Goodyear, and many of the others had a lot smaller booths then other years, a sign of the time I guess.

But the standard of the vehicles there was just as high as other years, some great Jeeps, some with some very trick suspension.

In the not too distance future there will be some new products available, so watch this space. Daystar will have some progressive bump stops out soon they are not be nitrogen charged but work on inserts but will be a third of the cost of the nitrogen items and unless your are out and out racing they will work very well.

Rugged Ridge New Products

2009-11-06T02:54:00.001Z

Rugged Ridge are showing 2 new products at the SEMA show for the Jeep Wrangler JK.

The first is a handy back seat organiser/cooler that fits into the rear cup holder on the back of the JK centre consol.

Next windshield mount light bar for the JK

These will be available from FTE 4x4 Specialist's Ltd.

Big Disc Conversion for the Wrangler JK

2009-11-04T16:28:00.001Z

A new product at the SEMA show is the big disc brake conversion by Teraflex. 13.3” diameter discs with twin piston caliper, oem style bolt-on caliper mount bracket. They will require a 17” rim.

SEMA is up and running

2009-11-03T02:06:00.001Z

Well looks like SEMA show this year is going to be good, had a wonder around the parking lot today and took a few photo’s you can see them on my site FTE 4x4 Specialist's Ltd. follow the link to SEMA Show.

Everyday I will be posting photo’s to my main site. Also any new products I see I will post here.

SEMA 2009 is fast approaching.

2009-10-25T01:15:00.000Z

The SEMA show is fast approaching, this is one of the largest aftermarket parts show for cars in the world, it has all the latest ideas, not just for Jeeps but most types of cars. I will be posting pictures to my FTE site from the show every night starting from the 3rd November, look for the SEMA 2009 logo on the home page.

SEMA 2009 is fast approaching.

2009-10-25T01:10:00.000Z

Spot The Difference

2009-09-23T10:43:00.001+01:00

Not all AX15 gearboxes are the same, the other day I was helping a friend to change the gearbox out of his 1998 TJ Wrangler, the box we were fitting was supplied by a local breakers, as a Wrangler TJ gearbox. Everything went smoothly till it was time to fit the transmission belly pan, on bolting up the belly pan to the chassis rails the transmission mount bolts were not protruding through the belly pan they were short by 10mm. At first we thought that we had left a socket or something on the belly pan and the mount was sitting on that, but no not that simple. It was the transfer case that was sitting on the belly pan. The gearbox was an AX15 but from a Cherokee not a Wrangler and for some reason the Cherokee transfer case is clocked differently. So when getting parts from the breakers always double check.

Notice the way the housing are drilled the one on the left is the Wrangler.

Rugged Ridge New Series of Winches

2009-08-18T23:46:00.001+01:00

Rugged Ride have just launched there new range of winches, below is the highest spec unit loaded with synthetic rope, check out my web site for the others in the range.

Performance 10500 Winch with Synthetic Rope

Lightweight. Durable. Tough. Affordable. The Performance 10500 LB Winch from Rugged Ridge is everything you could want in a competition winch. It is driven by a durable 6.6 HP Series Wound motor for long life and extra pulling power. A tough 3 Stage Planetary Gear box with a 218:1 gear ratio delivers power and reliability on each and every pull. The Performance 10500 LB Winch has more power and exclusive features than any other winch in its price range: Stainless Steel Hardware- All the exterior winch body screws and bolts are Stainless steel to prevent rust and provide a long life. All Rugged Ridge synthetic rope style Winches include hawse fairlead. Special Solenoid mounting brackets allow for multiple solenoid mounting points and the ability to “tilt” the Solenoid for ease of use. This “tilt” feature ensures that each Rugged Ridge winch can be used with almost all off road bumpers and over riders! Limited 2 year warranty against manufacturing defects (1 Year on electrical). Each winch has been independently tested to ensure they meet or exceed all specifications.

Rugged Ridge Heavy Duty 10,500 LB Winch Features/Specifications
• Durable 6.6 HP Series Wound motor for long life and extra pulling power
• Tough 3 Stage Planetary Gear box with a 218:1 gear ratio
• Includes 94’ of 3/8” diameter synthetic rope and latched hook
• Constructed with Dyneema SK-75 from the Netherlands.
• 12-strand braid rope with a breaking force of 19,310lbs is lighter and stronger than steel
• Automatic load holding brake system (in the drum brake system)
• Includes hawse fairlead.
• Tough stainless hardware on the body of the winch to eliminate rust
• Each winch includes a durable 12’ all weather cable remote.

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialist’s Ltd.

Keeping it Cool

2009-08-14T14:21:00.001+01:00

One question I get asked quite often do you sell the low temperature thermostats for the Wrangler TJ, well the answer is yes, but normally the Wrangler will run fine even on the hottest day without over heating. My first question to them is are you sure your radiator is clean, and the answer is of course it is! Well below are a couple of photo’s of a radiator I took out of a Wrangler when the owner gave me the answer “Of course the rad is clean but it is still running hot” I wonder why?

I had to lay the radiator down and soak it for an hour to soften the mud before I could wash it out with a hose.

When cleaning out the radiator be careful if you are using a high pressure jet wash as this can damage the fins on the radiator. It is best to wash out the radiator while the mud is still soft and use a hose.

Where to mount your Hi-Lift on your Wrangler JK

2009-07-21T00:00:00.001+01:00

The Hi-Lift jack can be a very versatile bit of kit, but it is a little cumbersome to carry inside the vehicle, well Rugged Ridge have the answer if your have the new Wrangler JK.

The Off-Road jack mount allows you to carry your Off-Road jack on the outside of your vehicle, saving precious cargo space. Fast and easy bolt-on installation. Compatible with stock and most aftermarket rear bumpers (without tyre carriers) as well as the Rugged Ridge XHD rear bumper with or without tyre carrier. Bracket is sturdy and secures the jack in two locations to eliminate any vibration noise during vehicle operation. Durable textured finish looks great. Fits most Off-Road style jacks including Hi-Lift.

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialist's Ltd.

Rugged Ridge New HID Lights

2009-07-07T01:04:00.001+01:00

Rugged Ridge HID Off Road Lights take off road lighting to the next level!

The brilliance of High Intensity Discharge bulbs with the rugged construction of traditional halogen off road lights. The result is a more efficient and powerful beam better capable of illuminating the trail. HID lights are 2-1/2 times more powerful than halogen lights and draw 60% less current than a standard 100W driving light. The 6” and 5” HID Lights (Black & Stainless 6”, as well as Stainless 5”, coming soon) are constructed with heavy-duty stamped steel housings, and are available in corrosion resistant black or stainless steel finish. Rugged Ridge lights feature waterproof connections, internal ballast, and a reinforced multi-directional mounting base. The lights are available individually or in kits containing pre-terminated wiring harness, relay, impact resistant stone guards and illuminated dash switch. Studies have demonstrated drivers react faster and more accurately to obstacles with HID lighting rather than halogen ones. So, upgrade your lighting today!
• Internal ballast & Waterproof Connections.
• Draws 60% less current than a standard 100W driving light
• Reinforced multi-directional mounting base.
• 12V 35W 4200K HID Bulb has double the lifespan of a 100W halogen bulb.
• Kit includes pre-terminated wiring harness with relay & illuminated dash switch.

Above also a 7” HID from Rugged Ridge.

All available from FTE 4x4 Specialist's Ltd.

Some more power for the TJ, YJ, XJ, ZJ, JK

2009-07-02T23:59:00.001+01:00

Want more horsepower, better throttle response, and improved acceleration? A
Rugged Ridge Air Intake System can boost your performance, while helping you keep extra cash in your wallet. Our polished aluminium mandrel bent intake tube replaces the restrictive factory air box to help improve fuel economy and performance. A black powder coated heat shield separates the filter from engine heat, dirt and debris, as cold air is drawn through a high-flow conical air filter. Unlike other reusable air filters, our dry panel design never needs oiling, which keeps your MAF from being damaged by excess oil! The simple bolt on installation gives you power you can feel, adding up to 10HP and 12ft lbs or torque, depending on application.
• Polished mandrel bent 6063 aluminium air intake tube.
• Simple no-drill installation bolts on using basic hand tools.
• Intake kit includes black powder coated heat shield.
• 97-06 4.0L TJ models include throttle body spacer.
• Improves fuel economy up to 10%.
• Adds up to 10HP and 12ft lbs or torque.**
• Includes a high-flow conical dry panel filter that never needs oiling.

** Depending on kit.

How do you bend a set of Stock upper control arms

2009-06-04T23:53:00.001+01:00

The stock front upper control arms on a TJ Wrangler are not one of the strongest components, but to bend a pair like this does take some doing.

Here is how, start by loading 4 people into your Wrangler and follow the directions below.

Thanks Adrian for the link to the video clip,

How to improve steering damper clearance

2009-05-20T00:33:00.001+01:00

Sorry for the long break in posting but work here at FTE has gone a little crazy and finding time in the last few months has been hard.

The steering damper on the Wrangler JK sits a little on the low side leaving it vulnerable to damage. A simple bracket supplied by Rubicon Express over comes this problem, and can be fitted in next to no time.

As you can see from the picture above the steering damper sits below the steering linkage.

With the new bracket fitted the steering damper now sits high out of harms way.

The bracket supplied by Rubicon Express is for LHD only, but FTE 4x4 Specialist's Ltd. will soon have these bracket available for RHD applications.

When was the last time??

2009-03-29T22:46:00.001+01:00

You checked your diff oils?

Simple task that can save you a lot of money, and warn you if any problems are starting to occur. The photo’s below show what can happen if you don’t, the problem was the axle seal was leaking but rather then checking under the vehicle after any off-road excursions to see if any damage had happened. (Not just axle seals) The guy kept on using the vehicle so every time it was driven into any water it was being forced into the diff housing, along with the grit & mud that was in the water, and over a period of time this is the end result.

As the diff cover was removed.

After washing out.

The end result was new bearing kit, and ring & pinion. The ARB was stripped & cleaned and was used again. A lot of money for the sake of an oil change!

TJ Rear Shocks Do They Clear

2009-03-17T23:02:00.001Z

One item that is over looked when lifting and fitting a short shaft conversion on a Wrangler TJ is the clearance between the rear shock and the spring pad. As tilting the axle upwards to gain correct driveline angle rotates the shock closer to the spring pads. This may not affect the vehicle on the road but once off-road and the TJ starts to articulate you may end up with a bent rear shock.

This can be simply corrected by the use of Rubicon Express rear shock re-location brackets, a simple fit. Below are some pictures showing how they fit and the difference they can make. (The TJ they are being fitted too has a 4.5” lift with short shaft conversion fitted.)

Shock boot touching spring pad.

The Rubicon Express rear shock re-location brackets (fitting hardware included but not shown)

Re-location bracket bolted into place. (Second fixing on the rear not visible in picture)

Shock is moved away from the spring pad.

The brackets are available from FTE 4x4 Specialist's Ltd.

Know what you are buying!!!

2009-03-08T22:56:00.001Z

Recently I have had a guy bring a Wrangler to me to see if I could sort out a few problems he has with it. He had driven 4x4’s before but not Wranglers so did not know that much about them, and bought this particular vehicle on recommendation. It is a shame that he did not take someone with him that had knowledge of this particular make of vehicle, as he might have got it at a cheaper price or even walked away from it.

From first look as it was taken of the flat bed that delivered to me, I could see the front axle was out of alignment by at least 3”, the back was out by a couple of inches. On starting it and driving it onto the ramp I could hear all sorts of mechanical noises from the driveline.

These are problems that should have been easily spotted, by someone that had a little knowledge about this brand of vehicle. As it is, it’s now going to cost a fair amount of money to put these problems plus a few more I have found right.

So if you are not sure then ask someone to go with you and get them to cast there eye over it, it could save you a lot of money.

JK Wrangler Lower Control Arm Skid Plates

2009-03-02T00:36:00.001Z

These easy to install skid plates will protect your control arms. Constructed of durable 3/16” black powder coated steel, these skid plates will help prevent getting get hung up on rocks and other trail obstacles. Simply unbolt your control arm at the axle and slide this skid plate in place. Sold as a pair.

Installation Instructions pdf(3.7mb)

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialist’s Ltd

Dunlop Rover M/T Maxx Traction

2009-02-27T00:52:00.001Z

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. New Dunlop Rover M/T Maxx Traction on/off-road tyre for light truck and SUV applications.

"Initially available in 17 popular sizes from a 305/70R16 to a 37x13.50R22, the Rover M/T Maxx Traction features centre traction lugs for excellent start-up and braking traction in sand, dirt, wet and winter conditions, along with self-cleaning channels that help expel mud and debris," say Goodyear officials.

Off-road traction is helped by the presence of an interlocking centreline and zig-zag stripes. The tyre also contains a rim flange protector and sidewall edge elements "to create a strong off-road appearance while enhancing both off-road traction and on-road ride."

So is this the long awaited replacement for the old BFG Trac-Edge, lets hope so.

The Rover M/T Maxx Traction is expected to be available in February 2009.

Just for the lack of grease

2009-02-20T23:43:00.001Z

Lately I have had a few Jeeps come in with some rather server drive line problems all for the lack of grease! It is one of the simplest forms of maintance and probably one of the cheapest. Factory propshafts do not have grease nipples, but most aftermarket items do, and when replacing worn out UJ’s if fitting Spicer items then these will be greaseable.

A lot of the UJ’s fitted on short shaft conversions on the rear of Wrangler’s and Cherokee’s have a double UJ joint near the transfer box and these are fitted with flush fitting grease nipples. To grease these you will require a needle adapter.

So for the cost of a grease gun, grease and a needle adapter, you can save a lot of money.

A UJ that should last the test of time ...USA Alloy X-Joint

2009-02-12T01:22:00.001Z

Cold Forged-Serviceable

Serviceable grease nipples at each cap allows you to flush grime and fill with grease to ensure that your X-Joint will last for when you need them.
Dependable cold forged steel composition made of Chromium, Molybdenum, and nickel alloy.
Hardened case for excellent wear resistance.
Full circle clips as well as half clips included.

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialist's

A Switch Mount for Wrangler TJ Owners

2009-02-03T23:39:00.003Z

Daystar Switch Panels make adding switches for electrical accessories easier than ever before! A direct replacement for factory dash components, installation is a simple remove-and-replace operation. There is simply no cleaner or easier way to add switches to the dash than Daystar Switch Panels.

Features:

Easy Installation

Replaces either HVAC vent on the centre of the dash

Allows airflow and a mounting point for one or two switches for electrical accessories

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialist's

Rugged Ridge New TJ Bumper & Rocker Panels

2009-02-02T11:12:00.005Z

Rugged Ridge have just launched a new front bumper for the TJ Wrangler.

Shown above is the base unit, bolt-on ends are available to make it a full width unit.

Also available are the heavy-duty rocker panels which are designed to provide maximum protection for your vehicle’s most vulnerable points. Manufactured from 3/16” thick steel plate with a tough black textured finish, these heavy duty rockers can take a beating. Each features cutouts for use with offroad jack and a 2” step for easy access. To protect your vehicle’s finish rubber gaskets are utilized to seal and protect the paint and body. For use with most aftermarket fender flares.

All available from FTE 4x4 Specialist's Ltd

JK Articles in 4x4 Magazine

2009-02-02T00:02:00.002Z

4x4 Magazine have asked me to write some articles on the work I have carried out on there Silver JK Wrangler. The first article is in the February 2009 issue, covering the fitting of a Rugged Ridge XHD front winch bumper, lower skid & Warn 9.5ti winch.

More articles are to follow covering the fitting of steel diff covers, AEV Snorkel, and Rugged Ridge rear bumper.

FTE 4x4

DELTA... THE RIGHT LIGHT...

Heavy Duty Front Ball Joint Sets For the Dana 30 /44 Axles

New Products at the SEMA Show

Not All Wheel Spacers Are The Same

More Clearance For Under JK Rear Shock Mounts

Wrangler Resurrection is alive and kicking

Independence Day: Mopar readies the Jeep Wrangler JK8 Independence Kit

May not contain all you need!

Back to Basic “What is a SYE?”

J33P in Normade

Looking for that extra storage space in your Wrangler?

Time for an upgrade?

Replacement Bushings for Rubicon Express Control Arms

Metal Cloak Frame Built Bumpers

FTE 4x4 Specialists is now a dealer for Rock Krawler

A Wrangler JK with rather trick suspension.

Tides Out (When was the last time you checked your diff oil?)

A Tip for Wrangler JK’s Lifted with Rear Bowed Springs.

King of Hammers 2011

A New Style Snorkel for the Wrangler JK ?

A New Year & A New Project (Well Almost)

Wrangler JK H/D Rear Axle Spring Mounts

New products for 2011

Congratulations to Dust Junkies Racing for their win at the 2010 Baja 1000

Bonnet Bounce on the Wrangler JK

More pictures posted from past SEMA Shows

2003 –2004 SEMA Pictures Posted

Pictures now posted

SEMA Re-Visited

Some Day All 4x4’s Will Be Made Like This!!

Happy New Year to All, Another product for the Wrangler TJ

SEMA Show over for another year.

Rugged Ridge New Products

Big Disc Conversion for the Wrangler JK

SEMA is up and running

SEMA 2009 is fast approaching.

SEMA 2009 is fast approaching.

Spot The Difference

Rugged Ridge New Series of Winches

Performance 10500 Winch with Synthetic Rope

Keeping it Cool

Where to mount your Hi-Lift on your Wrangler JK

Rugged Ridge New HID Lights

Some more power for the TJ, YJ, XJ, ZJ, JK

How do you bend a set of Stock upper control arms

How to improve steering damper clearance

When was the last time??

You checked your diff oils?

TJ Rear Shocks Do They Clear

Know what you are buying!!!

JK Wrangler Lower Control Arm Skid Plates

Available from FTE 4x4 Specialist’s Ltd

Dunlop Rover M/T Maxx Traction

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. New Dunlop Rover M/T Maxx Traction on/off-road tyre for light truck and SUV applications.

Just for the lack of grease

A UJ that should last the test of time ...USA Alloy X-Joint

Cold Forged-Serviceable

A Switch Mount for Wrangler TJ Owners

Rugged Ridge New TJ Bumper & Rocker Panels

JK Articles in 4x4 Magazine