A 2015 Jeep JKU Wrangler built for overland adventure

A stock Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a pretty capable vehicle. The Rubicon model is even more capable with its added electronic sway bar disconnect and differential lockers on the beefier 4:10 gear ratio Dana 44 axles, making this version the perfect base for the ultimate adventure overlanding vehicle.

The OVRLNDX Rig is a 2015 Hardrock edition Rubicon JKU. I added a 3.5” Metalcloak true dual-rate suspension system. Because of its adjustability and performance, I chose the Falcon Shocks Series 3.3 and Nexus EF 2.1 steering stabilizer. A Synergy MFG front track bar relocation bracket takes the Metalcloak HD drag link and chromoly dog-legged tie rod with one-ton rod ends into a high-steer position for better handling.

Exploring the Yuha Desert Trail in California

As for the tires, I run 35 x 12.50 x 17 BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 mounted on the Outlaw 5-spoke VTX Offroad wheels. For auxiliary lights I went with KC Hilites, running their Gravity LED technology all around the Jeep, controlled by a Switch Pros switch panel system. To power all the lights and the ARB 50-quart on-board fridge, I added a Genesis dual battery set-up with one Optima Red Top and one Yellow Top.

For the electronics mounting, I added the reliable 67 Designs carbon fiber arms, machined metal ball mounts, custom iPhone and iPad holders and the vacuum pad mag lamp holder. It is mounted on a Vector Off-Road JKE Dock bar and makes the whole system the perfect gadget mounting solution. As for organization, I rely on Blue Ridge Overland Gear modular organizers and storage solutions. These help me keep my phone charger, extra batteries, maps, first aid kit, winch controller, tools and recovery gear on hand.

Airing down with an ARB dual air compressor

The armor protection is handled by the Wilco Offroad MC2X series bumpers and single motion tire carrier with a cargo basket. Other armor includes the ARB Dana 44 differential covers, AEV rear corner guards and Falcon rear shock skid plates.

Running the ARB dual air compressor with a custom-made compressed air management system makes airing up and down all four tires at the same time a lot quicker. It also maintains equal pressure in all tires.

VTX Wheels mounted to BFG KO2 all-terrain tires

For recovery gear, the OVRLNDX rig is equipped with a Warn Zeon 10s winch, a Factor 55 flat link, TRED 4×4 recovery boards, Hi-Lift Jack, a Deadman Off Road Murder Spork shovel and a Deadman Earth Anchor and Body Bag.

A 4-person roof-top tent, mounted on a Gobi Ranger roof rack, makes camping as comfortable as it can be. The Tembo Tusk full-size Skottle grill serves as a cooking platform without needing a stove or pan. You hook it up to the 5-pound propane canister mounted on the Powertank Propane Tank Bracket and you’ve got an efficient set-up for outdoor cooking. A custom-made aluminum profile drawer system keeps all the spices, utensils, cups, plates and small camping gear secure and well organized.

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