Video: Custom 2014 Jeep JKU Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited

OWNER Stuart Gruchy bought this Hydro Blue Wrangler Rubicon off the shelf two years ago, and it has since had the works thrown at it.

Despite never intending to run 37s, JeepKonection advised Stuart that its GVM upgrade allowed for the bigger tyres, so Stuart thought ‘why not?’

Vote for the Jeep Wrangler JKU Rubicon to win 2017 Custom 4x4 of the Year

Myriad components underneath the JKU work together to complete the suspension package and GVM upgrade (to 3250kg): heavy duty Dana 44 axles front and rear, with 4.56 diff ratios to suit the larger tyres and ARB air lockers; an AEV 3.5-inch suspension system with heavy duty springs, bump-stop spacers, geometry correcting brackets and an AEV high-steer kit; and ARB’s BP-51 adjustable external reservoirs.

To cater for extra weight, you need more power. A 100 per cent bolt-on Sprintex Supercharger kit boosts power from 116kW at the wheels to 190kW.

Up front, an ARB bar houses a Warn CTI-S winch and three Lightforce LED 215 driving lights. There’s also a Mopar 10th Anniversary bonnet and an AEV snorkel.

Uneek 4x4 has dressed up the flanks with rock sliders, A-pillar light mounts, a bonnet-light mount and a roof-light mount.

A Rhino-Rack BackBone system with Foxwing awning lives up top. Down back, a Kaymar twin swing-out carrier incorporates a tow bar, jerry can holder and spare tyre.

Underbody protection comes courtesy of Uneek 4x4 and ARB bash guards. While a 60-litre Long Range Auxiliary fuel tank broadens remote-area travel.

Extensive storage solutions by Affordable 4x4 Drawers includes a fridge slide, a pull-out table and an SMEV stove and sink. A 40-litre Ironman 4x4 fridge is powered by a Genesis dual-battery system and twin Optima Yellow Top deep-cycle AGM batteries.

To read the full feature on this phenomenal do-it-all Jeep, pick up a copy of 4X4 Australia’s January 2017 issue, out now!