Let’s Talk JEEP WRANGLER UPGRADES

[@patrickbyr]

New Jeep owner (bought a ‘15 JKU Sahara this week). I’ve spent hours pouring over your videos. Such an amazing resource, wonderfully useful & interesting content and very high production value. I can’t get enough! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience!

[@TrailRecon]

Congrats on the new Jeep and really great to hear the videos are helpful for you! Thank you!

[@HighclassAIM]

It cracks me up when I see a thumbs down on your videos. Who are these people?!?! If the vid’s not for you then move on. Thanks for entertaining us Brad. Keep on truckin!

[@TrailRecon]

No worries, it the internet. Thanks for the support!

[@terryandteresa]

HighclassAIM I love this channel!!

[@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath]

If you can’t handle down votes there’s a solution for you. Vimeo was designed for fragile egos. I’m guessing some of “these people” don’t like Brad leaving a defective product nameless

[@HighclassAIM]

Oh you sure told us

[@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath]

HighclassAIM Us, you got a mouse in your pocket?

[@shawn2296]

you wanna know the best part? its your jeep , you made it YOURS dislike and hate all you want fellows. Get yourself a jeep and make your own. sure i disagree with some mods here, but thats why jeepers are awesome. each has his or her own. great video

[@woodman9505]

Yes you have to do what works for you.

[@Gazziza29]

Your videos are very helpful and entertaining to watch. As a 4Runner owner this is one of my favorite channels. I think you bring an honest perspective which hasn't changed since day 1. I think there are too many other channels out there that are copycats, me too's, trying to capitalize on this "overland" fab that are pushing products, giveaways, and selling themselves out to sponsors. Aka a certain 4Runner owner that rambles on too much, constantly pushing and advertising products, and talks more about adventures than going on them. I never got that vibe from you. I can tell you do this channel because its a passion of yours. Keep up the good work Brad!!!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! I'm glad you are enjoying the content here. There are a few other solid off-road channels out there putting out great content.... I find myself binge watching other channels all the time.

[@problu9586]

Over the years, kept all my 4x4 vehicles stock, except for upgrading from incandescent to LED bulbs before LED lights became Jeep stock. Admit to being a little envious of super upgraded Jeeps, those upgraded capabilities are amazing. Congrats on creating your dream machine.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! A stock Jeep is a very capable vehicle and you can have some amazing adventures without ever doing any modifications.

[@alexbenford9511]

This is the first time I’ve ever heard any jeeper mention Georgia. I’m from Georgia and there are hardly any trails here. I only know of 5 decent trails in the whole state. But you are definitely right on the clay. All of the trails in Georgia are rocks,roots, and mud.

[@doodoocow]

I'm from Ga (just south of Macon) and just bought a JKU Sahara. I can't find anything that isn't in North Ga.

[@willb1132]

Blairesville north Georgia has rock crawling trails.

[@halxiii7538]

Brad, you honestly have on of my favorite jeep set ups i have come across. Thank you for making these videos and always being positive. your videos are inspiring, Makes me proud to own a wrangler.

[@Diego_de-la_Vega]

Brad, I want to tell you that you are getting better and better doing your videos. I have been following you up for a while and I can see the difference. Congrats and well done.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! It's been fun learning this youtube thing over the years.

[@kevinmarks8988]

Hi Brad, Kevin from New Zealand really enjoying the content mix of jeep mods and trail vids. Very helpful , very useful and practical and the South West sure has some great outback trails.

[@Slartibartfast70]

I like your mods, good video. Just want to say I put an Airaid cold intake and a throttle plate on my wrangler. No moving parts, nothing to fail. I combined that with the Magnaflow exhaust and it really woke the motor up. Not loud but, you can tell when you push the pedal on the right.

[@TrailRecon]

Great to hear your mods are working for you, it's just a personal preference for me.

[@lawrencemoore2981]

Love love your videos. I have a ‘13 JK Rubicon with 35 MTs. (3” lift). I get my upgrade ideas from your videos! (Just got my HAM radio license b/c of your video about ham radios). I’m so totally with you on the muffler. Love something tucked away (like the flow master) but much quieter. Cant wait learn what you choose. Thanks!!

[@TrailRecon]

Congrats on getting your HAM license! Really glad the videos have been helpful. Thank you!

[@4everjeeper]

muffler on my next to do list on my 2012 rubicon, I also don't want a loud fast n furious type sound, been looking at the AFE Hi Tuck muffler they seem a little loud, videos r nice but id rather hear in person so I don't get a loud to me muffler

[@brisonpalmer6730]

awesome video I wish someone with a TJ/LJ would do this well explaining their build up of their jeep

[@28crazydave]

jk Gear and Gadgets

[@heath8109]

This video is Rock Solid!

[@TrailRecon]

I probably should re-title the video! LOL!

[@davidgagne4373]

I have the same shocks, and when I sent them in for a rebuild, I had them re valved for my weight and a LSC adjuster added on the reservoir for the rears. This allowed me to control stiffness (body roll mostly) at slow speeds.

[@tonyvet2278]

I just put on Rough Country V2 shocks, and they seem great so far. I looked at bilstein 5100's and fox monotubes. but RC seemed sturdy and about $500 for all 4.

[@moabwheeling]

Great video Brad , cant wait for the interior video . I don't think our jeeps are ever done. I have had my TJ for four years and it get stuff added to it every year. Already have next years mods planned . I use Banks exhaust on my TJ and I' m very happy with it. Not loud at all , just a nice mellow tone . Take care my friend.

[@TrailRecon]

They are never done! I've had a few recommendations about Banks... I'll have to give them a closer look. Thanks!

[@DaytonaRoadster]

Georgia reporting in, those are nice tires, but no match for our skicky mud, would recommend the nitto trail grapplers

[@donjernigan8119]

Thanks it looks good Master Chief , I enjoy the Trail Recon videos and they have adjusted my thoughts on mods that I will do on my JLU Rubicon that I am waiting on delivery. I have already received my replacement differential covers. Thanks Retired PO1.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you and congrats on the soon to be new Jeep. Thank you for your service shipmate!

[@johoffman3893]

You should reach out to Shane at Genesis Off-Road. We installed their dual battery system before our cross country overland trip (10,000+ miles) this past summer. It saved us when the primary battery would not start the Jeep in a fairly remote location. The system connected the two batteries together and we were back on the trail. If you overland at all, this type of system should be a must if your Jeep includes auxiliary lights, etc.

[@markpate9656]

Brad, great informative video on your various upgrades, really gave me some ideas on a few potential changes to my Jeep. Really like the lights mounted on your rack, think I may do the same set-up on my Rhino Rack.

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks! I think once I raise the roof rack up I may tuck those lights underneath the rack a little.

[@henrycolestage7650]

Hey brother! I don't know if anybody mentioned it to you yet but...Fox makes adjustable external reservoirs for your shocks. I run them on my desert racer. It is really handy to be able to stiffen them up if I have a passenger/extra fuel, etc. or soften them for the sand at Glamis. Check with your Fox shock guy. ISC(PJ), out.

[@TrailRecon]

I've been contemplating switching to an adjustable shock, maybe when the budget allows. Thanks!

[@terry1967ful]

I live in the north west.... "Washington state". I did the 3" lift with 33's MT. kinda wish I did just the leveling kit 3" was more than I thought It would be.

[@TrailRecon]

I use to live in Washington... love it up there. Just slap some 35's on the Jeep, will fill in the wheel gap real nice!

[@roberthart4160]

TrailRecon mentioned Ga mud.. the struggle is too real ! Love your vids.. gonna make me stay broke 🤣

[@TrailRecon]

I was stationed in South Carolina for a couple years and we use to take the dirt bikes down to GA to hit the trails.. I know all about it! Thanks!!

[@seanspeakers]

The roof rack is so clean I need something like that on my TJ

[@scottfulton9457]

Great video Brad! Your next update needs to be to that MC Anchor decal though. It should be fowled brother 😉

[@billybadass411thefirst9]

Thank you for finally addressing the Treadwright tires.

[@billybadass411thefirst9]

Thank.....and Treadwright.

[@derekgreen6525]

Nice job Brad. I can’t wait to get me a set of aluminum GenRight flat fenders.

[@Rooterofvalue]

Love the video Brad. What mounts did you use to get the KC pro 6'' onto the bruiser bumper? I have the same bumper and lights and would love to do the same setup. Thanks and keep the videos coming!!

[@ricklo.5865]

what's the brand of the nameless bad tires??

[@44fan182]

BRAD your Jeep is clean!!!! That’s a first!!! Videos amazing as always, please keep the info coming! ROCK SOLID INFO

[@TrailRecon]

I probably should have cleaned up the suspension a little better before filming, but oh well.... it gets used and is rock solid! LOL! Thanks!

[@punknjl8722]

I love your channel, I bought the KC headlights on your recommendation and love them. You explain them perfectly. Do you ever take your top off? Is it hard to remove with that roof rack?

[@TrailRecon]

Great to hear you are happy with the lights! I take the top off occasionally. It comes off with no issues, which is what I really like about this roof rack.

[@tjhammond9120]

I'd love to see a sports cage. Like a color matched rock hard 4x4 sports cage. I've got a sports cage in my TJ and love it.

[@TrailRecon]

I think sport cages are great, I'm just not sure I want the added weight, my Jeep is already on the heavy side.

[@jacman619]

Excellent upgrades Brad. Especially that big brake one. Did mine about a year ago and felt an immediate improvement. Looking forward to your review of your upcoming 5.13 upgrade.

[@TrailRecon]

I'm so happy with the big brake kit investment and glad I did it before the Colorado trip since they got a work out up there. Hopefully 5:13's in the coming months. Thank you!

[@michaelkirkwood5393]

I have the same roof rack and you can put the accessory rails up there it will make your life so much easier! Just so you know!!

[@22ghost392]

Your gonna be over 3k rpm running 75 on the highway with those 5.13 im on 37s with 4.88 and at 75 im right at about 2850-2900. Great video as always!

[@TrailRecon]

That's a debating I've been having with myself over and over... I'll be sure to share with you guys all the detail with the time come. Thanks!

[@MrJoecango]

Good video Brad, The rig looks good . You do practical, functional upgrades, not bling bling look at me upgrades. That's the kind of stuff I like, keep it up brother.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! I try to keep it practical and functional, but admittedly I do like stuff to look good as well.

[@Casey250]

You forgot to mention upgrading your wallet to pay Jeep mods lol! Good video bro.

[@TrailRecon]

Shhhhh... don't tell my wife!

[@grimheathen]

Thats what jeep stands for, Just Empty Every Pocket.

[@timweimar8768]

Thanks Brad!! You and Marco have definitely inspired and assisted me with some many modifications. Thanks for sharing the info, really appreciate it.

[@Bananabeachflorida]

Nice build , Agree with the winch topic , mine isn’t a warn but boy the one I have really helped me out in bad mud situations , need to upgrade to synthetic rope tho , cool vid 👍🏻

[@jmjhayes2043]

In one of your videos you said you were going to install sliders in the back (Actually you implied you had sliders that weren't installed). Did you buy the slider (If so, what did you buy)? or build one (If so, where did you go for instructions?) What were the needs?parameters you were looking for/wanted in your sliders? Also...do you have a power management system with all the extra gadgets you run? What is it and what do you recommend?Many thanks!

[@ravenbarsrepairs5594]

@TrailRecon Keep an eye on the base of that winch. Had a couple club members have major cracking or catastrophic failure of the winch base. Smittybilt replaced parts under warranty.

[@lettuceshred9107]

I have a 2012 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited / manual transmission. I just have KM 31s MUD TERRIANS ON THERE RIGHT NOW.. what tire size can I go up to with a sport wrangler and not have to change out the gears? I'm getting wheel spacers tomorrow 🤗. Just thought I would throw that out there lol. Very excited for that. I'm thinking a lift here pretty soon. I'm think 2.5 right now. With the 31s and wheel spacers, but yeah.. what tore size can you go up to without changing the gears ⚙ 🙄 just for now until I save the money for gears and such

[@GoneBroke]

Awesome build so far Brad the Jeep is amazing 👍👍

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@TommySalami73]

Your videos have def helped out for some installs like the fenders. Have you installed the inner fender liners yet? if so, where is that video?

[@dragonquestbarrios1092]

GREAT information. Look forward to more adventurers. Keep on WHEELING....

[@keithhodge395]

Falcon 3.4 shocks are great love them

[@jamesstanton8642]

Brad you should really try the bf Goodrich km3 mud terrain. I had the km2 on my 2012 and I loved them. So this time with my unlimited I went with a 3.5 aev lift with 35 inch km3 which I love. The km3 is quieter and more responsive than the km2 and bf Goodrich puts out a quality product. I also went with a 4.56 gear ratio in this one and it’s awesome! A perfect setup for me. But I would definitely check out the km3 because my Jeep is my daily driver as well and I love them.

[@TrailRecon]

I've heard great things about the KM3's, but I've got plenty of miles left in these KO2's before I swap them out.

[@jamesstanton8642]

TrailRecon absolutely I just figured I would give a suggestion for what you could look at or try out after those. I have heard great things about the ko2. A lot of people use them out here on the east coast so they must be great. Like I said bf Goodrich is such a great brand and they put out an amazing product!

[@bobsteger3922]

Great video. I would add the Griffin attenuator to your Steer Smart drag link. It made a huge difference on mine.

[@dennisc8664]

Great vid Brad, thanks! That spare tire rack actually came on mine from the dealer, very heavy duty.

[@jehu5279]

Great detailed video about the upgrades you have done on your Jeep.

[@TrailRecon]

Really glad you enjoyed it, thank you!

[@hamidnia7242]

I was going to buy a jeep, but after I saw this video, I discouraged to do so. It seems we just buy a piece of land with four wheels (which they need to be changed too) and build a house over it!

[@lettuceshred9107]

🙄

[@osielalvarado1921]

you should make a video on why Jeep guys are so snobby with the Yota group lol. Moab, Uray, Telluride and Lake City last week and it was always the Jeep guys that would ignore the waves.

[@user-ys1ki8sp8s]

I’m positive if you’ve saved all the old components you’ve taken off the Jeep, you could build a second one by now! Haha Love your videos!

[@tom2579]

Do the exhaust next please I want one that is tucked in but not too loud as well.

[@TrailRecon]

It's on my to-do list, but not a top priority at the moment... need to beat it up a little more. LOL!

[@fwschnaar3179]

Hey Brad.. I have a Flowmaster Super HP2 that I installed... Nice Sound (Not too Loud) that Tucks way Up, and out of the way... Can send a Pic if you’d like? 😃

[@csilv]

Great video! Hypothetical question... if you were to start all over again with a new Wrangler (say if you decide get a JL), would you start with a Rubicon again, or would you save a bit with a Sport and then build it up? Just curious.

[@TrailRecon]

Yes, I'd get a Rubi again. The Rubicon is the way to go in my opinion unless you have disposable cash and know you want dana 60's.

[@jlfamilyfarm2190]

I've been considering doing a light bar over the front window like the one you have. I'm just worried about glare off the hood, how bad is it and is it worth the money? ..by the way your jeeps awesome

[@bradroberts6447]

Nice video. Thanks for the walk around Brad.

[@joec3675]

Nip the tip! I just cut off about 4" of my tail pipe for the same reason. Fine tooth blade on the sawzall...

[@Foxleaxer1981]

This video is rock solid 👍

[@TrailRecon]

My new motto!

[@sm6wet]

Great video again Brad. You are such an inspiration and spread enthusiasm to the Community. Question, how much did your gas mileage change going to 37" Wheels? What do you get today? Cheers from Sweden

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you for the kind words! Going from 35's to 37's I think my mpg dropped almost a full mile per gallon. I get 15 mpg on a good day.

[@fwschnaar3179]

Funny that when you Modify a Jeep over Stock... Some think you got more Money then you know what to do with it... Liking that Your trying to keep your Rig something that most Working Guys with an Allowance can do over time... I made a comment when You installed the Throttle Control, that I was running the Pedal Commander... I was very impressed with the Options in that you can add or take away Your Pedal Response with just a Push of a Button (ECO Mode is great for on the Trail, and the Sport Modes are Giddy Up!) And also if I missed a Comment... What happen to Your Wrap? 🤷‍♂️

[@luiskim5418]

Can you make a video on how to mount the smittybilt tent on the roof rack?

[@ocracoke2013]

This car is beautiful. I want you guys to do a two door also!!

[@jmsuitter5]

Great video as always. Like the upgrade as you need it attitude. Looking forward to Future upgrades.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@billjcanada]

I noticed that you are running the stock front sway bar disconnect. Have you had any problems with it? My third one just died due to water shorting out the circuit board. Due to the cost of the electronic system I am converting mine to a manual system.

[@bosse641]

Nice upgrades. Looking forward to the ones coming as well.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! I've got a few new things coming soon!

[@warrenlelond3317]

I really like your choice of upper light bar! I’ve been looking at putting one on my rubicon, but am concerned about wind noise. I’m sure there will be some, but is it tolerable? Thanks, and keep the great videos coming!

[@TrailRecon]

Wind noise is so minimal with this light bar. I had an older one that was awful, so I understand your reservation. The KC Pro6 make very, very little wind noise.. my tires are louder.

[@warrenlelond3317]

Great to hear that! I can tolerate my tire noise, so the light bar noise should be acceptable. Thanks!

[@JKsouthwest]

Great video. I love watching the progress of you Jeep, mine has been progressing very similar to yours. Looking forward to the next video.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! It has been a fun project.

[@johnq.customer8027]

Had a Smittybilt winch. Nothing but problems from day one. And getting the guarantee honored was impossible. Never had any problems with my Warn products.

[@johnq.customer8027]

P.S. Nice Jeep. Thanks for the vids.

[@stevenpreyer5379]

Brad, Loving the Jeep build. Quick question, I'm in Temecula picking up a 2006 TJ Rubicon this week and wanted to see how you and other San Diego Jeep Club members tackle the front license plate requirement?

[@TrailRecon]

Well, you technically are suppose to have it in CA.

[@pete24p]

i love your hood latch setup!!! who makes that kit? absolutely awesome looking!! thanks and keep on jeepin!! -p3t3r

[@methemonkeyking]

If I’m ever on a run, I want to make sure I’m in front of you...just in case. The only thing missing from your ride is a full bar!

[@jeeper8199]

How do you have your wiring coming through your hard top for the roof rack mounted lights?

[@eesko2000]

I just drilled holes and used good quality silicone. No leaks yet. ☺

[@vanillawafer8114]

Dang this video was ROCK SOLID!!!!!

[@osielalvarado1921]

awesome build. im a toyota guy, but love your videos. I love the KO2's also.

[@dinobm13]

great vid always love them. As a retired nuke grade welder have no fear creating my own mods.Completed a LJ and now a 2016 JKU Rubicon ,currently cutting my rear frame to install winch am making vid sure you will love it. Have sold six custom bumpers and am starting to vid the process. Bedrock Custom Bumpers Instagram set up facebook in the works. Looking forward to hitting some of the trails you do!

[@TrailRecon]

I would love to build and LJ someday... goals! Sounds like you got your hands full. Thank you!

[@eodjeep2137]

Very nice Jeep! Always enjoy your videos. Keep it up.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@appleguy1986]

Congrats on 100K subscribers, Brad! You are rockin' it my friend!!!

[@SamCarleton]

I am looking to get a new Rubicon and using it as my daily driver. I am pondering getting a second set of wheels/tires just for commuting. Is there any drawback to that other than the cost of the second wheel set?

[@joncruz]

Great video but the KC lights and Fenders are totally abusive compared to others options at the same quality label. Awesome setup.

[@keithdickens583]

I have replaced this 3 times just like you did. All of the pop and make loud noise and broke

[@Dylan-ot2cx]

Hey please do a video on how to clean everything under the hood keep it up brotha

[@outlaw9232]

Another great video! TrailRecon cable channel! I would watch daily! Your work is professional. Thanks Brad. Always a fan.....

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you my friend! I don't think I could keep up with the demands of a cable channel. LOL!

[@GentleGiantFan]

TrailRecon two questions. What made you decide on the Rhino Rack vs a Gobi? I'm leaning to the Gobi for myself as it's no drill. Warn vs Smitty. What does Warn have that may make you consider them over your Smitty winch in the future? Thanks Brad!

[@combatc2007]

Great set up Brad, GO NAVY!!!!

[@barryraymond9004]

Do your gravity pro headlights wiggle?

[@teczac76ny81]

Brad I’m a new at this in putting a 4” rock Crowler lift ? Do I need to to extend my brake lines

[@donmontalvo1]

Awesome video. It's always great to see how others have their rig set up. Lots to learn from others. Curious what you're doing for navigation? iOS app? Garmin Overlander?

[@breakfree4x4]

are you running a secondary tank, with the standard tank running 37s you'd only be get 450-500 km surely........don't know what that equates to in Miles.....per tank

[@jameschurch3930]

Brad can you or have you already done a video of the nav systems you use and what type of monitor do you use them on??

[@TrailRecon]

I use Gaia, but its on my to-do list to do a video.

[@alexandermacke5339]

What size rims are you using? width and diameter please.

[@davebailey2296]

I drive a lot on gravel and am afraid that bigger tires would stick out from the fenders and sling rocks. I know you drive on gravel some and was wondering if you've had any problems with this. By the way, your tags are expired. Thanks for another interesting vid.

[@TrailRecon]

Yes, every once and a while I kick a rock up onto myself. A full sized fender would prevent that.

[@DevotedDiesel]

Dave Bailey you could do a clear wrap to try and protect but otherwise you just gotta live with the rock chips if you want to have large offset

[@JacobHopeTXL]

@@vitaminb4869 true

[@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath]

Vitamin B Tell the guy behind whose windshield you just trashed

[@JeremySparks-sp9og]

Who was the tire that the tread separated it

[@ayebee4703]

Question, how come no one ever talks about install prices. I'm looking at getting a Jeep and this is my biggest question what am looking to spend to install these parts. Great vid thanks for sharing!

[@TrailRecon]

I try to go the DIY route when possible. If you are going to have a shop do the install you can expect to pay $80-100 per hour on average.

[@eesko2000]

Find a good small shop, pay him cash, and assist him, and learn to do it yourself, and what you will need to do to Adjust or Repair. Join a jeep group. Tons of help full ppl willing to assist also. ☺

[@williamhardin5254]

Love your Jeep! Lots of good upgrades.

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks you! A few more upgrades to come... it never ends.

[@rufflife7152]

Brad, I am looking at headlight upgrade for my JK, like the KC's you have, reviews mention they don't fit well?? do you agree? look forward to hearing from you, great videos !

[@Legendary-tv8kb]

Beautiful Rig Brad! Nicely done!

[@EODHammer]

What was your rate? I noticed you Master Chief sticker. Retired 5337 here, same pay-grade.

[@ipdjbt]

I totally re-prioritized my mod list after my recent trip to Colorado and Utah. Your list of mods is a great example for many of us to follow, which I am!

[@TrailRecon]

So glad the information is helpful for you!

[@toddgibbs1321]

Have you considered Currie rock jock or Dynatrac axels? Seems like lots of bandaids to make the Dana 44s work with what you have been doing.

[@TrailRecon]

I'd love to have either one of those, but it's a large upfront investment that my budget won't support. Easier for me to bit off a little bit at a time.

[@toddgibbs1321]

That is true. I would love to get a project Jeep that is not a daily driver. The dilemma now is do you start with a JLU and go mild or a used JKU and go wild.

[@TrailRecon]

I love the new JLU's, but a JKU build would be easier on the wallet.

[@toddgibbs1321]

I do like the JLU. I can get a used pavement princess for under $20k. I can do a lot of upgrades for $35k!