The First Upgrades for My Jeep Wrangler Willys

I've been waiting to get to work on my, new to me, 2015 Jeep Wrangler Willys. In this video I have several projects that I tackle by myself that are going to improve the look, the functionality and the performance.
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ℹ️ PRODUCTS IN THIS VIDEO ℹ️
✅ Vector Off-Road Bar: bit.ly/vectoroffroad-dock
✅ Tailgate Table: bit.ly/tailgate-table
✅ Hood Decal: amzn.to/3JasUKK
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0:00 Introduction
0:55 Vector Offroad E-Dock Dash Bar Jeep Wrangler JK
5:59 Jeep Wrangler Custom Hood Decal
8:47 Jeep Wrangler Fender Restoration
10:32 Jeep Wrangler Tailgate Table
13:19 Jeep Wrangler JK Air Filter Change
15:03 Jeep Wrangler JK Oil Change

[@BarelyMadeItCrew]

This feels like I found a video of trail recon 20 years ago lol awesome having the kids narrate and build their own rig.

[@leewinter28]

Great video Devin! Your father has built a very cool brand with Trail Recon. These videos help so many of us with our Jeeps and 4x4’s. Keep them coming!

[@dkowitz12]

Appreciate it!

[@leewinter28]

@@dkowitz12 Sorry about misspelling your name. Now I know. See Trail Recon is far more than just an off-road knowledge base. ;)

[@morgancook6481]

A few observations. First, I think it's super cool. TrailRecon has become a full on family affair! Second, The videos are still fresh, well thought out, and we'll produced. Third, it's crazy how much you favor your Dad lol. Even the mannerisms, it's great!

[@lovessummer3614]

Is it me or was that Brad with hair and a mustache? Great video and your mannerisms are just like “father”

[@hereto246]

WOW , looks so much like Brad!

[@TrailRecon]

Chip off the old block, just with less gray hair! LOL!

[@trailrunnah8886]

Nice work! I'm loving this project. The new decals look fantastic. I have a 4Runner, but I really enjoy Jeep content. It's been great to see this channel branch out into a family affair, and I have to say I laughed out loud when day two started and you were holding a coffee mug. The nut didn't fall far from the tree!

[@dkowitz12]

No it did not haha!

[@saginawtn8006]

Well, I think he’s a natural. I came years ago to the channel for the 4-wheeling and found the great dynamics of family and friends to be the real blessing. God bless

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@Stomper67]

Two things that came to me while watching the video. 1. Do the JL hood latch mod. My wife loves them on her ‘17 JKUR 2. Maybe paint over the silver JEEP lettering and “graphic” on the plastic engine cover with yellow to match the body color.

[@TaleOfTwoIdiots]

Your comfort level on camera is amazing. Nice job, kid.

[@ghoulie69]

I love that family is becoming more involved with the channel

[@dkowitz12]

Me too!

[@garygioia422]

Good thing you love and respect your dad, Devin .... Because you are soo much your father's son. Great beginnings!

[@norcoredneck]

Makin it yours. You boys share so many mannerisms with the old man. Enjoying the additions to the content.

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@OscarTheJT]

One of the things that a lot of us that have been tinkering with vehicles for a very long time forget is, not everybody has done that. It's good to see you so exited about learning and doing new things to your vehicle. Your dad is a great resource, and between the two of you, your Wrangler should turn into something you can be very proud to drive. Keep up the good work, and I hope your enthusiasm continues.

[@dkowitz12]

Thank you!

[@jsang9601]

Devon is a natural in front of the camera

[@dkowitz12]

I really appreciate that :)

[@RocklanderUSA]

Awesome job, Devin! It looks great as is; but if it were mine, I’d add an AEV Snorkel, Teraflex 2.5” lift, Bilstein 9500 shocks, Swarbar disconnects, Front LCA, Brake upgrades, BFG KM3 295/70 r17, Black Rhino Wheels, Bolt hood lock, Hood Struts, K&N Air Filter, H6 Yellowtop Optima battery, Yellow front grill, Cascadia4x4 solar hood, and Alpine DoubleDin radio with GPS-applle carplay, WD40 Rust Inhibitor for all frame rust, GRMS or CB, and new seats. To each there own, and build it for how you plan to use it 😊

[@dkowitz12]

I'm gonna have to take notes from you! Haha

[@christopherpike8269]

I felt like I was watching a flash back to a young Brads first KZbin vids. Way more polished and professional though without the newbie camera / editing struggles. Really trippy vid.

[@TrailRecon]

Oy ya, his first video is 1000x time better than my first several videos!

[@dkowitz12]

Luckily I have had an expert helping me through this process lol!

[@ingelri2]

First! Hey, great to see the kids getting more involved in the channel. If you don't like the look of the applied products for your faded black fenders and bumpers, you can actually get specially designed trim paint that will make them look as good as new. Look for it at places that sell professional body repair products.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! I'm excited to have them be a bigger part of the channel. I wanted them to get the experience with these first videos of not only working on their vehicles solo, but also filming and editing the process... I'm very proud of how they did!

[@dkowitz12]

Hopefully we will just get bumpers/fenders that aren't plastic down the road

[@adampolselli597]

Crazy. Two months ago when this video came out, I had no clue how applicable it would be to me so soon. Yet, here I am, a proud first-time Jeep owner. And a Willys, no less! 😃

[@TrailRecon]

Congratulations!

[@adampolselli597]

@@TrailRecon Thank you! Between Regina's and now Devin's, I'm glad to be part of the 2-door crew!

[@larshamilton40]

hood struts are an easy, practical, upgrade... Jeep's lookin great!

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@braydenbreen9467]

We need more content on this jeep. I have a rhino 2dr Willys so this is perfect content for me.

[@wreckem7115]

I love how the channel has moved to integrate more "Jeep Family" videos. Well done and I look forward to more!

[@TrailRecon]

Thanks! I'm lucky that my family enjoys this too!

[@TPindellAuto]

After having my tailgate table for 6 months, its a must!!!

[@daisuke8872]

Man you look just like your dad and that's making this channel even more cooler

[@blairk9thor486]

So funny to see Brad in one of those suits that make him look decades younger. I kept waiting for him to peel it back like on Mission Impossible, revealing the real Brad underneath. Nice episode!

[@dkowitz12]

We're saving that for a late season plot-twist shhh

[@DonovanGoodwin]

If you get a long enough cable you can run the cable behind the dash and have it daylight right where the windshield meets the dash. There's a rubber flap there and it makes it perfect for cable management. That's how I have my radio mounted and wired.

[@Gravexero]

Recommendation: keep it a minimalist Jeep and run it with the top off all topless season! Use backpacking stuff to camp!

[@dkowitz12]

I pretty much use backpacking stuff to camp already! I definitely don't want to turn it into a monster rock-crawler that's for sure

[@davidbutler3787]

Great job. Brad's legacy! What a wonderful blessing. His mannerisms are just like his dad.

[@dkowitz12]

Monkey see monkey do

[@mrminer604]

The tailgate table is a game changer. I love the tailgater. A product I can't live without.

[@dkowitz12]

I'm so stoked to have it as a part of my rig

[@jonathanh8174]

Agree! Never had interest in a tailgate table until I went out with a friend who has one on his Jeep. Needless to say, it was amazing to have that bit of prep space for lunch and now I’ve got one on my JK.

[@moabwheeling1305]

Great video Devin ! You were very well spoken . Looking forward to more upgrade videos on your Jeep. Take care and catch you on your next video. P.S. The Trail Recon decals look great .. Way to go.

[@nativetexson]

Good job Devyn. Your dad must be psyched. TrailRecon puts out terrific videos that are both full of info and reminders. Cheers-

[@casemcdonald1187]

i highly recommend Shine Supply Clutch for the paint and fenders. it is ceramic based and it restores plastics for up to 6 months !

[@DestDroid]

Cracked up at the 2wd Jeeps not existing thought.

[@fnnnknorth]

Super cutie! Keep the stache 👨🏻. Impressive voice and presentation for someone who’s new. You have your fathers mannerisms.

[@wesliggett2454]

It’s just like watching your dad!! Awesome work!

[@dkowitz12]

Appreciate that!

[@arthurstoys7981]

Go Jeep!!! Nice to see a son saying nice things about his dad. Congratula for the family.

[@dkowitz12]

I say nice things about him once in a blue moon lol

[@charlesking9745]

I enjoyed your video! To make oil changes easier (or at least cleaner) install a fumoto drain valve. Then the next time you change oil all you do is connect a drain hose to the valve and direct the hose into the recycle container , then open the valve and all without a mess!

[@jeffreysmith4304]

Good Job Glad TrailRecon will have the Next Generation involved

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@victorlgcarvalho]

I'm enjoying very much the videos from the kids! Keep them coming guys!

[@dkowitz12]

Thank you!

[@UranSakura]

Inspirational…all the things i wanted to do on my Jeep. Feeling confident to tackle this on my own. Keep the videos coming.

[@earlsmithson4749]

Very nicely done young man. This video is a big help to those starting down the modification trail. I have a ‘21 Willys and really like that dash mount. Hope it comes in gecko green.

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@mrderek800]

If you & your brother are looking for more of a mild build then I would highly suggest going with the smallest long arm suspension lift to keep the drivability for commuting but also keeping the Jeep & Tacoma very off-road worthy. Plus a long arm lift kit should give a smoother ride when compared to a short arm lift kit.

[@f1rstclass366]

I've always preferred the Coup Jeeps.

[@supwell]

Nice video man! Taking after your dad, you're a natural in front of the camera - keep 'em coming

[@dkowitz12]

Appreciate it man!

[@abnpthfdr2934]

100% with you on that "4 WHEEL DRIVE" sticker!!!🤙🏻

[@dkowitz12]

Right!

[@FOUO88]

Love this! It’s like going back in time to see Brad as a young man haha. As a fellow 2 door driver I can’t wait to see this jeep transform.

[@tomsfunband]

Great video! Thanks for bringing us along....and I LOVE your watch!

[@Earlywinters09]

Love this project, and not just because I have a 2016 Willys JKU. I love the factory decals, but totally respect the choice to remove them. They remind me of the 50s vintage Jeeps I thought were cool as a kid... back in the day

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@overland_dadsfl]

Hey Brad,the leave won't fall far from the tree....👍👍👍 Devin is a natural .

[@rpliegos]

I built my 2015 JK Sport Wrangler following your Dad's product recommendations, so it will be a lot of fun to follow your Jeep's build! I installed the Teraflex ST2 suspension with the falcon 3.3 shocks on my 2 door Wrangler, and I absolutely love how the Jeep drives!

[@JP-ic1fi]

Another quality product from the TrailRecon Team. Looking forward to seeing what else the boy's come up with.

[@lloydrage]

I love that the family is getting involved with the channel. Another great video!

[@TrailRecon]

Me too!

[@dadams5040]

I’m with you on the Willy’s and 4 wheel drive logo I removed both from my 23 Willy’s!! It cleaned it up so much!!

[@av8orAH64]

Great job Devin. Good for you. Nothing quite like doing it yourself. The pride of ownership comes through getting under the hood and in your Jeep to make it your own. VR, Gary

[@Fixitall-ACE]

Let’s Go!!! Love the new videos from your sons!!! Can’t wait to see more!

[@joewagoner8724]

Good job. There’s nothing better than a Son showing the same interest in mechanical projects.

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@incog74]

Nice. Been watching your dad for a while. Fun to see your riffs. Like your comments on the "4 wheel drive" sticker. Fully agree! Keep them coming!

[@jendrarambharos4379]

Great video! Good job getting your hands dirty, i'm sure your dad is super proud of you! A couple of things, I've scratched a few nice watches, or gotten oil on them, from forgetting to take it off. So I'd recommend taking it off before doing things like oil changes or things where you're sticking your hand into the engine bay around a lot of metal parts. Also, i've tried both black plastic restorers, and while they work in the short term, the only longer term fix i've found was Cerakote Ceramic Trim Coat. It's lasted the longest, and looks great! It's held up to a lot of washes, mud, sand, dust, etc. Again, great job and look forward to seeing your Jeep on the channel!

[@junomas_7327]

Your Jeep is awesome! The best Channel and family on KZbin hands down! Thanks Trail recon.. absolutely inspiring

[@dkowitz12]

Shucks, thank you man!

[@kassenklein]

The Vector bar looks great! Nice job, Devin.

[@chadprice5718]

Can't wait to see your vision unfold ,I got my jeep about the same time .I'm not a car guy either, but your dad has in inspired to push my comfort zone during my build do most my self can't wait for your next one since we are on similar paths.

[@dkowitz12]

Glad he was able to inspire both of us, lol!

[@connornewton2831]

Great video excited for the next steps in this build!

[@cliffrockadventures]

Great job, Devin. Love the build!

[@jasonwilson7998]

Awesome episode! Excellent job explaining everything!

[@dkowitz12]

Thank you!

[@timraley]

Great video as always. Can't wait to follow this build. His instructions are very easy to follow (for us that aren't so mechanically inclined). Keep up the good work and welcome to the channel.

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@tonyk1amt806]

Good job Devyn! Upgrades are a personal touch, and not everyone is going to like everything, the thing that matters is that you like it. The changes look good to me. I’ll be building a table for my next jeep, as my current one won’t be with us much longer.

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@andrewsharman4419]

Another excellent video. Great to see the guys adding to the brand!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@IntoTheWildernessWeGo]

Nice work! Love seeing you guys on the channel. A nice family channel!

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! It's great having the boys get involved!

[@kebob2150]

Nice job on the video. Remember to keep the old air filter and use it for trail runs on dusty trails until it is past its service life.

[@kenpoultonjr]

So cool the whole family is involved. I’ve watched every video since the XJ days, keep up the great work everyone!

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks! I do miss the XJ even though it wasn't mine lol

[@shawntoohey5728]

WOOT WOOT WAY TO GO! GREAT JOB!

[@GATORADDAM]

The family business is fantastic!!

[@matsherwood6277]

Really enjoyable video to watch. Well done.

[@Donnut123]

Lovin' this Trail Recon 2.0! I just hope my son and daughter will someday follow in my footsteps with an off-road vehicle, or become "car people" of some sort. Can't wait to see what else you do to this Jeep Devyn!!

[@dkowitz12]

Thank you!

[@RodManson-gi6jl]

This one is a beautiful Wrangler ,and you are doing great to this iconic 2 door Jeep .your decision not to go with extreme lift & Tires would keep the Willys even more in the tradition , best wishes !

[@jeepinwithjulia]

I love seeing both of you on this channel. I love that table too. This is going to be a fun build to watch.

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks Julia :)

[@roadramroverland]

Awesome :) loving the DIY 😉 cant wait to see more of your projects

[@dkowitz12]

Thanks!

[@purleybaker]

Hey Devin-great video. The Jeep looks much better with the Trail Recon decal. I'm looking forward to seeing the future changes you make.

[@scubad3170]

You can run your phone cable between the windshield and the dash. There is a channel that runs from the left pillar all the way to the right. Then you can run your cable down behind the dash and no one will ever see it. Install your USB charger behind the dash, splice it into the rear of power port near the AC controls. :)

[@TrailNewbie]

LOVE seeing the whole family getting into the channel! Well done Devon!

[@dkowitz12]

Thank you :)

[@TrailNewbie]

@@dkowitz12 and correcting the spelling here Devyn. 😁😁

[@wheelzwheela]

Thanks for not picking horrible music.

[@juleesadventures7925]

This is a Brilliant video same as all the TrailRecon videos. More please ❤🇬🇧

[@dkowitz12]

As you command!

[@boondocksaint7212]

Bro! That dash bar looks good, but you're gonna hate how when you're driving, you're going to get a constant bright yellow reflection in your windshield. Good luck with your build!

[@Carlosmanmanman]

This was amazing!

[@1sam110]

I just bought a 2021 wrangler Willy’s sport in hellayella and I love it.

[@John-uo1qf]

It's Brad with piercings 😂

[@TrailRecon]

LOL! Dad may or may not have had his ear pierced in high school.... Hair Metal era!

[@dkowitz12]

LOL!

[@mithrandir1313]

Great start!

[@ndafarachaitezvi1139]

Great content as always

[@bluelinearcheology2427]

Great Video... Looked like an Ole Veteran with your comfort level in front of the camera!!

[@thomasvrieze527]

It does look better, totally agree

[@SquawkCode]

This is great! Looking forward to more updates on your Willys er uh TrailRecon Jeep.

[@dkowitz12]

Thank you!

[@johnmiller8592]

Super job Devin! You asked for suggestions so next time you might take that fine looking watch off before you change the oil just in case 😅👌🏼

[@louiskudlak2256]

Good start buddy 👍🏿

[@MaximusWilliams]

Looking forward to more videos, Devin!

[@shaftermike]

Whoa---at first I thought you were your Dad with a serious facelift, hair dye job and new mustache---crazy! But nice video!

[@nixx.1021]

Yayyy have been waiting for willys content 😁

[@dkowitz12]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@geraldkarl642]

Thanks for sharing, great video....

[@TheOriginalFunnyguy]

You may be too young, but back in the 90’s, the The Nashville Network (TNN) channel used to air some great car mechanic shows like Shadetree Mechanic, Truckin’ USA, Trucks!…it was a great time time for automotive television. Your cool and calm demeanor and presentation style would have fit in perfectly with the greats that hosted those shows. Keep up the great work.

[@dkowitz12]

That's rad! Thank you for the compliment :)

[@caifan444]

Heck yeah keep it coming guys like seeing you help pops out with the Channel!

[@dkowitz12]

Thank you!

[@dentman67]

There's no mistaking who's son you are. Remarkable!

[@dkowitz12]

Definitely not haha!

[@Christri]

Used cerakote trim restore a year ago and still looks great.

[@mikeu.s.n.9099]

Your videos are good for people like me. I have a 2018 2 door jk with 20k miles I just purchased and I am new to these jeeps like yourself. Hope to see more videos soon.

[@dkowitz12]

More will be coming for sure!