Rock Krawler Overland Lift Kit Install - Garage Party

In this episode I get several of my good friends together and we tackle the install of the Rock Krawlers 2.5" Overland Lift kit on my 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon. Nothing better than a garage party turning wrenches with some good friends!
🌐 TRAILRECON.COM 🌐
trailrecon.com
Check out our website if you’re looking for off-road or overland gear and equipment for your next rig and your next off-the-grid adventure. We have everything you need, including recovery gear, tents, cooking and kitchen gear, sleeping bags, TrailRecon clothes and stickers, and a lot more.
If you’re interested in reading in-depth articles about the places we go, products we use, and our personal insights about overlanding, you’ll want to check out our blog.
trailrecon.com...
********************
📲 SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS 📲
Facebook: trailrecon
Instagram: trailrecon
System Benefits:
Complete Bolt in System
Excellent Highway Ride and Handling
Improved Off-Road Ability
Caster Correcting High Clearance Front Lower Control Arms
Long Travel Functional Multi Rate Coil Springs
PRO Front Sway Bar Disconnects/Extended Links
33" or 35" Inch Tires (OEM Fenders)
Abuse Proof Lifetime Warranty on All Hard Parts
Upgradeable to any other Rock Krawler System
System Includes:
(4) Long travel functional multi rate coil springs
(1) Double adjustable front track bar made from 1.5" solid alloy steel with Anti-Wobble joint
(2) High clearance adjustable front lower control arms made of 1.625" solid alloy steel
(2) Adjustable front sway bar disconnects
(1) Pair of front sway bar straps
(2) Rear extended sway bar links
(1) Rear track bar relocation bracket
(4) Long travel front stainless steel brake lines, hardware and detailed instructions.
Disclaimer:
TrailRecon assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of TrailRecon, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not TrailRecon. This video is solely for entertainment purposes only.

[@danwhaley_]

People used to come together to raise the barn... now it's to add a lift to the ride. So great.

[@jman1863]

Brad, you make the very best Jeep content videos, period. Thanks for sharing your passion with us all. Good Times!

[@SanDiegoJeepClub]

SDJC & TrailRecon, together and as a team, there is nothing we cannot accomplish. Thanks, Brad!

[@mariodesmo]

That is really awesome that your club members pitched in and got it done so quickly. You have a great bunch of friends there! Your rig is ready to tackle any trail now! Can't wait for some videos with the new lift!

[@TrailRecon]

mariodesmo These guys were awesome, so thankful for all their help. I am up in Big Bear this weekend putting the suspension through its paces.

[@comingtofull-ageinchrist6736]

@@TrailRecon I'm watching this 5 years later and wondering how you feel about the Rock Crawler lift kit now? I saw the video that you done on 6 different lift kits on 6 2020 Wranglers, but I'm wondering, after all this time, how you feel about the Rock Crawler today verses the Tera Flex? I think in the comparison, over all, you chose the Tera Flex. I wonder what your thoughts are today? I'm planning on buy a Wrangler Rubicon this year, and I've been watching your videos on axles and drive shafts and lift kits, and I know you are always out on the trails, so I wonder how you feel about the Rock Crawler lift kit today over the Tera Flex, and if you still feel the same way about the Tera Flex as you did in the comparison? Thanks for sharing the content! and what a great bunch of guys helping you install the lift kit! Thanks for the content!

[@jacobalfredstate]

I've been following your videos for about year and half now, and its really cool to see your rig evolve!

[@TrailRecon]

jacobalfredstate Thank you for following the channel for so long, really appreciate it. Lots more to come on the Jeeps evolution!

[@joserosario6081]

Wow what a nice bunch of guys. your jeep looks allsome great job guys

[@TrailRecon]

jose rosario The best group of friends a Jeeper could ask for. Thanks!

[@josephtrom98]

I really love your Channel. You make great content, as well as do a great job of explaining things whether it's components/installation or trail tips and down right good knowledge for attacking the trails!

[@nathantaylor9998]

Brad thanks for your service in the military. Beautiful Jeep my friend.

[@pico093]

Seen all your upgrades videos. Excellent craftsmanship. You have some great friends. . Your jeep is looking awesome. .

[@dogsnmotorcycles]

Nice having friends to help out, instead of friends that only come around when they want something.

[@bkrdtours]

That was a great, fast install overview. Well done.

[@jad21964]

Great video!! So nice to be part of a club... with all that help!!

[@aaronronimous9900]

So awesome to see a strong club!

[@Venom-kq5xz]

That’s a sweet pit crew y’all have with the Jeep group in Cali. Should’ve watched this video prior to swapping out my coils to bump up my lift from a 2.5” to the 3.5” MC true dual rate suspension lift. Awesome install video!

[@garywagner3569]

what a great "pit crew" you have! great video Doc and good luck!

[@TrailRecon]

Gary Wagner Thank you!!

[@ratled1]

What, no nap after that lunch???!!! Thanks for the video, looking forward to the first after action report

[@TrailRecon]

ratled1 After all that hard work, a nap was sure in order. On the trail action coming soon!

[@nickduran8455]

Congratulations on the lift brother! Jeep is looking great!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! Very happy with it so far!

[@davyleupz]

Like the work on stuff videos. Keep up the awesome work Brad.

[@TrailRecon]

David Leupitz Thank you!

[@URBANAMERICANTAC]

Northridge is good people. I love their selection and prices.

[@kevinengland4675]

Looks like a ood set up man. can't wait to see how it handles for ya 😊👍

[@Overlanding_4_Sanity]

Awesome job guys!!!! I'm so happy with my 2.5" OME HD lift with the 35s. I've been saving to get me the front and rear upper and lower control arms from Rock Krawler suspension as well. 👍👊💥

[@ragtopbuggy]

Love the videos Brad. Keep up the good work. TrailRecon videos have helped me out a lot. Just one word about this video. "Safety Glasses" Stay save and keep on trailing

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! Really glad they have been helpful. You are right one, safety is always important and we should have been more aware of it during this project.

[@ramsesthegreat4843]

You guys made it look easy. Loving your videos.

[@JeepinNation]

love how its sitting now. In the very near future I'm removing my 1-1/4" body lift and removing the 3" trailmaster lift in favor of the 3.5" RK lift. I'm already running the track bar and i have beat it on a bunch of stuff and it's very solid.

[@TrailRecon]

Jeep -N- Nation A RK 3.5" will be a nice upgrade... great to hear your track bar is holding up well!

[@jasonchappelear6963]

Rock krawler makes some great stuff and Northridge4x4 has some awesome prices(where i get most of my stuff) It's always fun doing garage parties with SDJC.

[@ortiz73caify]

Awesome video and lift nice to see your Jeep evolve as you also do.

[@onawhim7737]

Another fine piece of work. Lots of information, great stuff! Looks like a great group of guys there. Keep em comin!

[@RockyXTV]

Great video! Awesome how all the guys jumped in and got it done! Looks great to!

[@TrailRecon]

Rocky X TV These guys were working at a NASCAR pit crew pace!

[@outlaw9232]

Great job Brad! I'm running the Rock Krawler 2.5" Max Travel Lift in my Rubi Unlimited Hard Rock. I also got mine from Northridge 4x4. Those guys are great. The Rock Krawler lifts are awesome, strong and I love the fact you can add on to it later if you want. Worth every penny in my opinion!

[@TrailRecon]

Outlaw 923 Great to hear you are happy with your RK kit! Agree, the folks at Northridge are true professionals! Thanks!!

[@BKAGOSTO]

Great video bro. Love the lift kit. Keep up the great videos.

[@TrailRecon]

BKAGOSTO Thank you!!

[@Thexkidd]

This is the way it should be with a club.

[@410Expedition]

Great install video Brother! Can't wait to see the Rubicon in action.

[@TrailRecon]

We hit some serious trails this last weekend in Big Bear... the suspension performed very, very well!

[@RockTrooperJeep]

Awesome vid! I was getting dive bombed by flys at the end of that video, LOL!

[@Mickale-Moranis]

To help with the link suspension install, yes, remove the track bar to be able to articulate the axle to remove/toss in the coils. If you need more room, disconnect the drag link (disconnecting anything that pulls the axle sideways rather than up/down). Putting the drag link on after suspension is assembled is not that bad as you can rotate the steering wheel to get the pitman arm over. No ratchet strap is necessary. To reinstall the track bar, real easy, no ratchet strap is necessary. Think of the purpose of the track bar. Its designed to keep the axle centered under the frame. The steering is rigidly attached to the frame and the axle. If you don't have a track bar, the frame will move side to side over top of the axle due to the tires friction contact on the ground. So once you get everything buttoned on, put your tires on, and lower to the ground. Wiggle your steering to align the track bar in the axle mount. Put bolt in. Straighten tires forward, measure tire distance against same frame point both sides, and remove and adjust the track bar to give you the 'center' axle under the frame. Torque all bolts to spec, and adjust the drag link to center the steering wheel with a toe measurement. Caster adjustment can be done at home, especially with adjustable length control arms. If you know how to measure the caster and adjust for it correctly. Always get a professional alignment once you are done to verify your install and measurements. Do note, not many alignment shops understand the adjustable CAs/track bars, and may adjust at the alignment point of the Jeep. On the JKU, it should be the lower CA axle mount. Upgrade mounts usually don't allow for adjustment there, but through the upgrade adjustable CAs.

[@adventuredex]

Congrats on your new lift brad!! Great video

[@pssita]

The SDJC seems pretty top notch! And if you need a place to send the old lift kit.....

[@TrailRecon]

WxGuy They are truly great folks!

[@tacomaster46]

About time you get a real lift on there!

[@TrailRecon]

Long overdue for sure!

[@Bob-Campbell]

Loved watching this. Are you still running the rock Krawler with the 5100s? Do you still like that setup?

[@wsigona]

What a nice set up. I'm looking forward to a review of the ride on and off road. I did a ton of research and decided on the Mopar 2 inch lift mainly because it will be covered under my Mopar max care lifetime warranty.

[@gordongman3423]

Wish I had a garage. Pea gravel, mud and fire ants. I can live with the first two. Lol Enjoyed the video.

[@Motorep146]

Saw the rig on the 8 near Hotel Circle on Friday. It looks great and way too clean!

[@TrailRecon]

I try and keep it clean, but you should see it now after spending the weekend in Big Bear!

[@Patriotalliance]

Great video and a great group of guys...

[@TrailRecon]

When friends take a weekend to come help you wrench on your rig, you know they are good honest folk!

[@Anormus1]

Awesome awesome video! Wish I had buddies like yours. Jeep wave!

[@mauiman52]

Apologies for being the know-it-all, but BILSTEIN is originally pronounced “beelshtine” (at least in Germany, where the company is based, as it is part of the Thyssen Krupp company). The S is pronounced as a sh, not as a single s like in “steel”. Greetings from a native jerry living in CA. I have a RK X-Factor too. Came from RK 2.5 to 3.5 but still had way too much sagging in the rear due to the AEV rear gas tank. Hope that overland rear springs work out better for you Brad. After changing to Rubicon Express 4.5 springs, the setup now works as I want and the ride is still smooth and most important, it is up still. Enjoy your upgraded ride Brad.

[@Matt02341]

It's Mister William Stein to you sir! lol. great video, Brad

[@antoniocanes2221]

great video and a much nicer ride...I'm waiting for my RockKrawler CAs to arrive for my JLU

[@Stormtrooper-iy5ld]

I'm looking to upgrade from a rough country spacer lift. Was going to go with the teraflex lift but for not much more coin this seems to be the kit to have. Brake lines, track bar, control arms. I'm Sold! Lol

[@TrailRecon]

The Grim Jeeper I am very impressed with the quality of this kit... highly recommend it.

[@59Timk]

That’s awesome. Looks good. I’ve got a 2.5 econo lift. Thinking about springs. Bilstien shocks are the best. Good job

[@TheBeardedJeeper]

Jeep looks great! I want to upgrade to the rock Krawler 3.5" kit

[@TrailRecon]

The Bearded Jeeper You can't go wrong with it!

[@rubenruiz5076]

great video!!! love the jeep. keep it up man.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@kimberlyrichardson5779]

Hey Brad, have you done a video on lockers???? If not, what are your thoughts on Aussie lockers? Thx great info videos, lift looks great

[@TrailRecon]

Sorry, I have not done a video on lockers yet, but hope to in the future as the XJ will need them. I don't know anyone using the Aussie Lockers, so I can't provide you with an informed opinion. Thanks!

[@Jeep79]

Great job great video brad very proud of trailrecon just a tip make sure to take the jeep to the alignment keep strong keep trailrecon

[@TrailRecon]

Yaniel Rodriguez Absolutely, an alignment is always in order after a lift kit install! Thanks!

[@JoshuaBoldt]

I was just going to say that! Professional alignment needed ASAP.

[@yimbobby6937]

Yaniel Rodriguez

[@monkeyman41333]

If only my Rubicon was that clean underneath. All the nuts and bolts don't even look rusty.

[@TrailRecon]

It's the great thing about living in a place where they don't salt the roads!

[@Alice_X_Wonder]

Great team work😘❗️

[@mr68r38]

Great team work guys

[@ozarkjku5898]

Curious as to what you had on it before this lift. Teraflex budget boost? I've seen a good number of your videos, thoroughly enjoy them. I'm pretty sold on this lift after the John bull and rubicon runs. Nice job!

[@63123LEWIS]

I put a rock krawler 3.5 lift on my ok unlimited. Very happy with the ride and performance, but....I have some issues with bump steer. Did you guys wind up doing a drag link flip kit? And if so what brand did I you go with? Lewis

[@Kris-so9zq]

Awesome looks great. So if you put a regular lift 2.5 and a tent on the jeep will it sag down?

[@atg6196]

Hi Brad. Thx for this video. I just received my RK 2.5" X-FACTOR system and I plan to install it. Did you torque the jam nuts 200 - 300 ft-lbs before placing the arms on your jeep, or after installed, or did the alignment shop torque to those specs? This is not clear to me in the directions. I'm located in San Diego, can you recommend a competent alignment shop? Thanks and keep up the great videos!

[@mykal302]

Great video! I was wondering why you didn't use the dust boots on the shocks. Not necessary or personal preference?

[@TrailRecon]

So I had an old set of dust boots that got all dirty/muddy inside and they kept slipping off, so I just prefer to run without them.... personal choice.

[@MasonCanner]

It looks awesome 👍🏻

[@bradfilman]

Are you running 35's on stock wheels? What spacers are you using? I have 2015 Willys and want to lift it, but want to keep the original wheels for now. Great video!

[@TrailRecon]

They are Cooper 315's and I'm running 1.25" spacers. Thanks!

[@waltmasterson1585]

Great job! You guys work as if you've done this before. LOL! You all work like a well oiled machine!

[@TrailRecon]

It's a great bunch of folks to be in the garage with. We've had many a garage party as someones Jeep always has something to be done to it.

[@rebelfarms3825]

Hey Brad, I just bought the Rock Krawler 2.5 Max travel lift kit with ranch shocks. Any thoughts on it?

[@tonyBR549]

Hey Brad, I see you have recently moved to coil overs (I think I have that right), but after installing this kit were you a bit surprised/disappointed it only provided a 1/2" lift ib front versus the advertised 2 1/2"? I was thinking about buying this kit, but now I am not so sure. I have a two door jk with a stubby bumper and winch installed. Second question, what would you recommend? Okay, I'm done. Have fun at the Easter Jeep Safari!! Thanks!!

[@advrider7777]

nice jeep jk, i miss mine but keep the dream alive ,one day i will hav a big rig again,ps love the vids

[@johngray4107]

I have a question for you on the overland kit. does it ride a little rougher? Bounce or kick up in the rear when you hit a bump? I have a motorcycle rack I put on the back of my jeep and thought it would be an option for me but I don't always have it on. Thanks! Great videos!!!

[@TrailRecon]

I do notice it's a little rough when I don't have any gear in the back on the trail, but when I've got the tent on and all my gear in the back, it's seems to ride great on and off-road.

[@EmiratiAuto]

hi great video one question : only the overland kit have back spring higher than the front ? or all rock krawler 2.5 kits have the same setup for the wrangler ? (like for example the X-Factor kit)

[@TrailRecon]

Just the Overland lift and I have recently upgraded my front springs to 3.5, so its now leveled out.

[@rebelfarms3825]

Hey Brad, I recently installed the Rock Krawler Max flex 2.5 inch kit and my rear sway bar is now squeaking like no other. Did you have this issue too and did you relocate the sway bar brackets back an inch?

[@JS-zz3wt]

I love your videos! I was wondering since converting from the budget boost to the RK Overland Lift and having the 35" tires have you regeared from the stock 4.11 on the JKU Rubi? I've been following you for sometime and don't recall if you have mentioned that mod if you did. If you haven't regeared how does your daily driver perform (hwy vs trail)?

[@TrailRecon]

The Jeep drives okay with the stock gears, but a regear is in my future, it will help with accelerating onto the freeway and up hills. Thanks!

[@nexromancer]

How is it handling now and what size tires are you running. This is the exact lift kit I plan to use so any info would be great.

[@TrailRecon]

Diego Santos After a week of commuting to work, I am very happy with the ride. Tires are Cooper STT Pros 315's

[@zxrmuzzy]

Good job guys

[@orlandofierro8598]

I bought the same suspension beacuse of this video! Thanks.. do you have/know any tips or even any hands that can help me out? (its my first putting one on)

[@TrailRecon]

Having an extra set of hands is really helpful. Don't tighten your control arms down completely until the Jeep is back on the ground, and be sure to double check all your bolts before you hit the road. Honestly, the install is straight forward, just time consuming.... I'd have a whole weekend set aside if you are doing it by yourself.

[@lukenieckar8067]

I am looking at this kit for my 2016 jku backcountry, Besides the Kit itself, were there any other parts needed? Like exhaust spacers for example?

[@asperbergers7136]

You look like a Master Chief. Haha YAH!

[@davidgagne4373]

Any update/further review of your Cooper STT Pros coming? If you don't mind me asking, how many miles have you put on them so far since the last review?

[@TrailRecon]

Got a little over 30k on them and still lot's of life left in them... very happy with these tires!

[@davidgagne4373]

Thank you for the update and helpful review. I have heard good things about these tires, but it really hits home to hear it from someone running the same size on the same rig with a similar setup.

[@aikitkd]

great video just wondering if you can get that in a 3.5 lift?

[@robwestfall8280]

Good stuff MCPO !! MA2 here

[@jesse2edgar]

Are you still loving this lift? you have done alot of trips since the install.

[@jeffhuschitt5654]

currently running Teraflex 2.5" coils on 2018 JLUR with 37's and Falcon 2.1 JL shocks, seems to be a rough ride on the dirt / gravel trails. was thinking of using RK 3.5" triple rate coils in stead, also looking at Metalcloak 3.5" Dual rate coils, whats your opinion on the triple rate ?

[@NHWilderness]

I just bought the 3.5 pd in full installation may 10th (2023) estimated 1500 to 1800 for labor on top of the lift but rock crawler is supposed 2 be the best so buy once 😢 once as they say

[@Vodafone16v]

Ey Brad! Any reason why you removed the boots from the Bilshsteeeins? I had them on my '14 mated to 2.5" Teraflex coil lift... And now looking into RK 3.5" or Metalcloak 3.5" lift kits... and RK is winning due to pricing and the good rep!

[@TrailRecon]

The boots always got full of dirt and mud, seemed counter productive, so I don't use them. My Fox 2.0's didn't even come with them.

[@slowcountryboy476]

Always use the box end of the wrench as much as possible to prevent rounding the fastener head. Auto shop 101...

[@bradkoehler8531]

@ trail recon, this may be a dumb question but, does installing a lift void the Jeep's warranty? I keep hearing so many different things.

[@matthewchandler2470]

I like your channel, but would love to see more xjs professionally done like your sons or the trail walk arounds

[@volcer]

I see this is discontinued on northridge website i wonder why.?

[@Morris4x4Center]

Great job!

[@WKShooter]

I’ve been looking at lift kits for my 2018 Rubicon JKU. Regarding the gained measurements measured at front, middle and rear. What was gained by such small increases in height? Is this kit just for more articulation?

[@accidentaljester]

Hey Brad, great video. I have a full set of Skid Plates I need to install on my stock 16' Willys. Any interest in doing a video? I could sure use your tools and know how

[@rod5040]

@trailrecon aloha it's been awhile now since you had your RK suspension how do you like it on road and off road and would you add or change anything with the suspension

[@TrailRecon]

The lift performed extremely well on the Rubicon Trail this last week... couldn't be happier!

[@SmokeytheJeep]

After some time, are you still liking the RK kit, Brad?

[@rmtalias3907]

I bought the 2.5 springs front and rear for my 2 door, the driver side springs ended up 2 inches higher than the passenger. Was very disappointing, I only hear good things about RK

[@davidfreches2243]

Au must say "BILCHTEIN ".That is correct.

[@JoseRamirez-ku1ig]

Im looking to do a 3.5 life on my Jeep and a guy from 4WP recommended Rubicon express. Is that kit good?

[@alejandroalgarra9912]

How is the lift holding up? I'm looking at exactly the same lift, do you have enough flex?

[@alejandroalgarra9912]

Btw nice videos, keep up the good work and TIA

[@TrailRecon]

I really like the lift. Great quality and yes, lots of flex. This was the first off-road wheeling with it I did: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qondnaywq5J8qLs

[@strongkuntryboywhorespects14]

When are you installing the xrc bumper on the xj?? I'm thinking about buying the same one this sunmee

[@strongkuntryboywhorespects14]

**summer

[@TrailRecon]

Strong Kuntry boy Who respects women Soon, just not enough hours in my week.

[@strongkuntryboywhorespects14]

TrailRecon sounds good! Love the videos!

[@robertluttrell1111]

Which Teraflex lift did you have before replacing it with RC?

[@ar_razorback2337]

Hi there! I'm a recent subscriber, so far really liking your channel. I have a 16 Rubicon JKU. I have been looking quite seriously at the Rock Krawler 4 in. lift. I work 1000 miles from where I live so was curious as to to the on road ride capabilities>

[@TrailRecon]

Well I can't speak for the 4" lift, but if the ride quality is as good as the Overland lift I installed, you can't go wrong.

[@state48overland]

Well now that's done-are we voting for a name now? Not sure if your rig has got one, if not we'll need to put it to a vote.

[@TrailRecon]

AZ TACO I've been calling him Chief for a while... sorry no vote this time.

[@davidcolinstillman5585]

I KEPT WATCHING THE TOP OF THE GARAGE DOOR CHECKING TO SEE IF THE TOP OF THE JEEP WOULDN'T HIT GOING OUT OR IN!

[@RobertKohut]

Nice!! Made it the door... :-)