For two years starting with the 2007 model year, the Jeep brand released its 3.0L CRD powertrain for the WK Grand Cherokee. At that time, our Editor had completed a thorough review of the vehicle and one year later, purchased one himself and built it as a family overlander until eventually selling it in late 2014.

Nitro Gear & Axle saw the potential in this platform as well and over the years, have built a 3.0L CRD WK Grand Cherokee into a unique and fully capable offroad and overland vehicle. In fact, it’s so impressive we’re featuring it here for you to enjoy (and drool over).

Build Sheet:

2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK
Engine: 3.0L CRD with TST Box, Swirl Servo Motor Bypass
Transmission: 5 Spd Auto with custom AEV Tuning in TCM
Transfer Case: NV245/Quadradrive II
Rear Axle: Stock is a Chrysler 8.25” with electronic limited slip “ELSD”. The downside to this rear axle is that you’re stuck with the ELSD. No aftermarket traction device will work and the differential cover is a different bolt pattern than any other Chrysler 8.25” rear axle. So we removed this rear axle assembly and swapped it for a Chrysler 8.25” from a non Quadradrive Jeep WK. This allowed us to install ARB Air Locker, Nitro 4.88 gears, & Nitro Extreme Aluminum Differential Cover
Front Axle: Factory Teraflex Jeep JK Dana 44, Nitro 4.88 R&P, Nitro Extreme Diff Cover, TJM Pro Locker
Steering: Reid Knuckles, Rock Krawler HD Tie Rod & Drag Link, PSC Hydraulic Assist
Front Suspension: King Coilovers, Custom Build-It Offroad Straight Axle Conversion
Rear Suspension: King 2.5” Remote Reservoir Shocks, Custom Zone adjustable rear control arms, Zone Sway Bar Links, Jeepin by Al 6” Rear Coil Springs
Armor/Body Protection: ARB Bull Bar, 4xGuard Rock Sliders, Custom Build-It Offroad Rear Bumper with tire carrier
Winch: Warn Zeon 10-S
Wheels: Hutchinson Beadlocks
Tires: Nitto Trail Grappler 37×12.50×17
Roof Rack: Bajarack Mule Rack

* OutdoorX4 – Promoting responsible 4×4 adventure travel and outdoor recreation