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CONTENTS
Moab Concepts Jeep rolled out six concept vehicles at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab ...pg 10
JEFFERSON:
BUMPERS:
SOLDIERS:
JEEP TOPS:
4x4’s at the Jefferson Car Show ...pg 32
Off-Road Soldiers from the past ...pg 36
Bumpers Buyers Guide ...pg 15
Jeep Tops Buyers Guide ... pg 30
True Gladiator
4x4 for Everyone
We finally got behind the wheel of the much-anticipated Jeep Gladiator ...pg 20
We preview the upcoming Land Rover Defender...pg 24
ALSO INSIDE:
Fresh Tracks------------------------------ 4 Road Test: Honda Ridgeline-----40 Gearing Up--------------------------------42 Winchin’ Out------------------------------46 JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE
FRESH TRACKS
Ford Reveals All-New Ranger Raptor in Europe
F
ord of Europe has recently pulled back the curtain on the all-new Ford Ranger Raptor which is, of course, designed with off-roading in mind. The truck features a bi-turbo version of Ford’s 2.0L EcoBlue diesel engine that delivers 210 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque and will be paired to a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The truck will feature a race-bred suspension which is designed to tackle gruelling terrain at high speeds with a wider track and higher ride height when compared with the Ranger XLT. FOX shock absorbers with Position Sensitive Damping are utilized to provide higher damping forces for unparalleled off-road performance and lower damping forces in more moderate conditions, and to provide a smooth ride on-road. A set of 33-in. BFGoodrich all-terrain tires are used and provide an aggressive off-road tread pattern that provides grip in wet, muddy, sandy or snowy conditions. The Ranger Raptor also boasts a Terrain Management System that allows drivers to select from six modes including Normal, Sport, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Sand, Rock and Baja mode. Although meant to do its best work in the rigorous environment of a desert, the truck still retains all of the creature comforts you’d expect including Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8-in. colour touchscreen and FordPass Connect. Finally, the biggest question is, will we see it in North America, and the answer is unknown right now. Given the success of the F-150 Raptor and the resurgence of mid-size trucks on our side of the world, it would make a ton of sense but as of this writing, there has been no indication from Ford either way. OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
Volume 3, Issue No. 3 June / July 2019
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Publisher: Dean Washington dean@rpmcanada.ca Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Distribution Manager: Brenda Washington brenda@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor: Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca
Volkswagen Shows Off Tarok Pickup Concept in New York Volkswagen recently showcased the Tarok mid-size pickup concept for the first time in North America at April’s New York International Auto Show. The truck was first seen at the Sao Paolo International Motor Show towards the end of 2018 and is expected to enter production for the South American market in the near future. While there are currently no plans in place to bring the truck to North America, Volkswagen used the opportunity to gauge the market reaction for the Tarok. The compact unibody pickup is
Advertising Sales: Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan John Gunnell Dan Heyman Spencer Whitney Benjamin Yong CONTACT INFORMATION
OFF-ROAD PLUS Magazine is published seven times per year by RPM Media Inc. MAILING ADDRESS: 2460 Kingsway Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada V3C 1T4 TELEPHONE: (604) 629-9669 FAX: (778) 285-2449 TOLL FREE: (888)-500-4591 EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca WEBSITE: www.rpmcanada.ca Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183
based on the MQB platform and is 193.5-in. long, yet has the ability to carry loads up to 73.2-in. long thanks to a new design that allows the pickup bed to extend into the cab. The truck’s look is highlighted by the C-pillar that looks like the bar on a Targa top with an aluminum frame extending from one side of the vehicle to the other. The truck sits on 16-in. aluminum alloy wheels fitted with 235/70 tires. Inside of the Tarok is a fully digital design for the instruments and climate system with a 9.2-in. Infotainment system and a configurable Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. The truck features 4Motion all-wheel drive with a 4Motion Active Control switch that controls the all-wheel drive function and associated driving modes. Finally, the concept is powered by a 1.4L four cylinder turbocharged engine that makes 147 horsepower and is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
Ram to Produce Mid-Size Pickup Truck Ram will soon be adding a mid-size pickup truck to compete in what is clearly a growing segment. In a discussion with Automotive News, FCA boss Mike Manley said that they will indeed be bringing a mid-size offering to the table soon and that it will properly compete with popular pickups like the all-new Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma and the Colorado/Canyon
Volume 3, Issue No. 3 June / July 2019
ADVERTISER INDEX
Anzo USA ------------------------------------ 2 Bright Source -------------------------------- 7 Formula Distributors - -------------------- 25 Husky Liners - --------------------------16,17 Ram/Dodge’s last mid-size pickup was the Dakota which was around from 1987-2011
HyperTech - ---------------------------------- 5 ICI ------------------------------------------- 29 Iron Cross Automotive ------------------- 35 Lordco Auto Parts ------------------------ 45 Mickey Thompson -------------------------- 9 Nitto Tires ---------------------------------- 39 Red Line Auto ----------------------------- 44 Rugged Ridge ----------------------------- 19 Steelcraft Automotive - ------------------- 48
GM twins. As you probably know, Jeep has already entered the mid-size pickup market; however, the Gladiator is almost in a class of its own and it appears FCA would like to add a more traditional truck to compete in that segment along with the Gladiator. Ram/Dodge has not been in the mid-size truck market for the better part of a decade after discontinuing the Dakota in 2011, and it will be interesting to see how the truck fares in what is a truly growing segment.
GMC Sierra CarbonPro Editions Beginning Production GMC has announced that the Sierra CarbonPro Editions will begin production in early June and will arrive at dealerships this summer. Available on the Sierra Denali 1500 and the Sierra AT4 1500, the CarbonPro bed is the first application of its kind for carbon fibre composite, delivering dent, scratch and corrosion resistance. In addition to the added durability, the carbon fibre bed also weighs 25 percent less than a traditional steel bed, while its grained surface eliminates the need for bed liners. The CarbonPro bed design
TrailFX -------------------------------------- 47 PICK UP LOCATIONS
also enables best-in-class cargo volume, and features indentations specifically designed for tires of dirt and street bikes, while two tie-down locations are installed at the front of the bed. The CarbonPro bed was rigorously tested to ensure durability and functionality with a number of tests including drop tests, corrosion test, extreme temperature testing and a generator test. The bed won’t be the only new feature available on the all-new 2020 GMC Sierra, with the additions of the available ProGrade Trailering System, Rear Camera Mirror and a Multicolour 15-in. Diagonal Head-Up display. OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
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Annual Tradition Jeep and Mopar once again roll out concept vehicles at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab
s has become an annual tradition, Jeep and Mopar once again joined forces to create six new, custom-built A vehicles for the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah which ran from April 13-21. Thousands of offroad enthusiasts travelled to one of the U.S’s off-road meccas to participate in a week of technical off-roading in one of the world’s most scenic venues and, as expected, the new Jeep Gladiator was front and centre. As Jeep said themselves in a press release, the Easter Jeep Safari provided the perfect opportunity to obtain feedback on their newest vehicle by knowledgeable, like-minded people involved in the off-road community. The concept vehicles themselves, which are based on the Gladiator, feature a vast selection of production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts which are developed by Mopar with legendary 4x4 capability in mind and provide a look into what’s to come with Jeep’s all-new pickup. With that said, here are the six concepts that Jeep rolled out.
Story by Jordan Allan, photos courtesy of FCA Canada
Jeep Flatbill The Jeep Flatbill is based on the all-new Gladiator and features an exterior design inspired by Motocross culture, with a vented carbon hood, high-clearance flares and a custom-designed shortened front bumper and skid plate. The truck’s bed is fitted with a pair of dirt bikes and allows for the removal of the tailgate to utilize dedicated wheel ramps that have been installed and slide out for easy access and loading. Dynatrac Pro-Rock 60 front and rear axles are featured, as is an OffRoad Evolution custom four-inch lift kit.
Jeep Flatbill
The Flatbill boasts large rear bypass shocks along with 20-in. wheels fitted with 40-in. tires while the inside features bright, bed-lined floors plus custom-trimmed seats to create a sporty appearance. Under the hood of the truck is the 3.6L Pentastar V6 with the 8-speed auto. Jeep Wayout The Jeep Wayout takes advantage of the all-new Gladiator’s class-leading payload and showcases a full roof-top tent and custom, large sprawling canopy. The body-armoured exterior of the Wayout features a new Gator Green colour that will be available on production Gladiator models and also boasts a custom bed rack with an integrated ladder to the roof-top tent and amber LED task lighting on the 270-degree awning. For even more convenience, the Wayout features two custom-fit auxiliary fuel tanks integrated into the bedsides, as well as an ARB on-board air system with a body-mounted quick-disconnect air supply line. To enhance capability, a Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit increases ground clearance, while the 17-in. steel wheels wrapped in 37-in. mud-terrain tires provide a distinct retro feeling. Finally, the concept vehicle is powered by the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine that is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Wayout 12 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter
Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter The Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter is a seamless blend of vintage and modern components and uses the term ‘Five-Quarter’ as a historical nod to Jeep trucks of the past that were one-and-one-quarter tons or five-quarters. The concept started with a 1968 M-715 and features the original front sheet metal removed with a full carbon fibre front end taking its place. The Gladiator-based military vehicle features a new bobbed 6-foot custom-fabricated aluminum bed that has been perforated and re-imaged using a mix of water jet cut panels and wood slats. The headlights have been replaced with new HID lights
with LED auxiliary lights, while rearward LED halo lights have also been installed in the original taillight buckets. The off-road capability of the M-715 Five-Quarter has been enhanced by reinforcing the original frame and replacing the leaf springs with a heavy-duty link/coil suspension system. The front axle has been pulled forward two-inches and replaced with a Dynatrac Pro-rock 60 front axle and Dynatrac Pro-rock 80 axle in the rear. The concept features 40-in off-road tires and a 6.2L supercharged Hellcrate HEMI V8 engine that produces more than 700 horsepower. Jeep J6
Jeep J6 The Jeep J6 concept mixes the classic Jeep truck styling of the late 1970s with prototype and production Jeep Performance Parts from Mopar. The J6 is a Rubicon that has a customized two-door configuration which maximizes cargo space with a large, six-foot bed that is 12-inches longer than the standard Gladiator bed. The upsized bed area is guarded by a prototype body-colour matching spray-in bedliner and a sturdy, two-and-a-quarter-inch steel prototype sport/roll bar that features LED lights. Prototype 17-in. beadlock
wheels are featured with a deep dish design and are wrapped with aggressive 37-in. Tires. Other modifications for the J6 concept are a prototype two-inch steel stinger bar that bolts to the front bumper and rock rails that are customized with two-inch steel tubes welded to the standard Gladiator wheels. Under the hood is the 3.6L Pentastar while inside features instrument panel inserts that match the body colour plus Katzkin leather seats and armrests. JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 13
Jeep JT Scrambler
Jeep JT Scrambler Next is the Jeep JT Scrambler concept which is a heritage-inspired remix and carries the throwback colour palette and graphics of the iconic CJ Scrambler crossed with a combination of new parts. The bed is customized with a spray-in bedliner and a two-inch steel, prototype tube sport/roll bar that is painted body-colour white. The truck is based on the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon and uses many Mopar parts including four, five-inch LED lights sitting atop the sport/roll bar and two on the A-pillars. 17-inch slot wheels are customized in a concept bronze to tie in with the exterior colour theme while a two-inch lift kit helps clear room for the large, 37-in. tires and tough rock rails that feature a non-slip grip. Under the hood is the trusty 3.6L Pentastar V6, and inside features the same Scrambler colour theme with Katzkin Amaretto Brown leather seats bordered in orange thread with the Jeep grille logo embroidered in a light Tungsten on the seatbacks. Jeep Gladiator Gravity
Jeep Gladiator Gravity Last but not least, is the Jeep Gladiator Gravity concept that boasts a Punk’N Metallic Orange colour to grab attention, which it certainly does. The bed area features Mopar cross rails that work with a cargo carrier basket to deliver storage space for rock-climbing gear such as ropes, helmets or shoes. The rock-climber themed concept provides open-air potential with two-inch round steel tube doors and a mesh sunbonnet that provides cover while keeping the top-down feel and tie-down straps that secure the windshield when lowered. A two-inch lift kit is featured and sits on 17-in. gear wheels with 35-in. tires, while heavy-gauge steel rock rails are thicker and wider and utilize the same powdercoating as Ram Truck bed liners to provide a non-slip finish. The truck features a cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust system to enhance horsepower and torque, while the interior features additional Mopar accessories including grab handles, MOLLE bags and all-weather floor mats.
14 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
PRODUCTS: BUMPERS
BUYERS’ GUIDE ARIES Jeep Tube Bumpers
Description: ARIES’ Jeep Tube bumper features a double-stacked layout for a classic appearance, and boasts a protective welded brush guard. The bumper uses pre-existing factory mounting points for easy installation and is available for both the front and rear, with the rear bumper featuring a cutout to fit with the Jeep’s spare tire. Specifications: Features 3-in. diameter, heavy-wall tube design. Applications: For Jeep Wranglers prior to the JK. Website: www.ariesautomotive.com ARB Bondi Stubby Bumper Description: ARB’s Bondi Stubby Bumper for the Wrangler JL is inspired by their own TJ bumper styling and features a new single-piece, press-formed centre pan that is complemented by a bash plate along the base. A low-slung forward-facing main hoop and upright tubes provide excellent protection to your Jeep’s front end. Specifications: Features integrated recovery points that are certified to carry over 8 tonnes. Applications: Available for the 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler JL. Website: www.arbusa.com Body Armor Full Width Front Bumper for Wrangler JL Description: Body Armor’s Full Width Front Bumper lines up perfectly with the Wrangler JL’s factory fender flares and fits the factory fog lights or LED cube lights. It features a two-stage light texture finish in black and comes complete with two welded D-Ring mounts and a 12,000 lb. winch capacity. Specifications: Optional grille guards and skid plate available. 3/16-in. steel plate construction. Applications: Available for the 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler JL. Website: www.body-armor4x4.com Dee Zee K-Series Front and Rear Bumpers Description: Dee Zee’s new K-Series Bumpers are the ultimate line of defence for your off-road truck - like armour for your truck! Heavy-duty one-piece steel construction provides serious strength. Models for Heavy Duty trucks available with additional winch plate and 1-in.-thick shackle mounts capable. Cutouts provided for standardized LED lighting plus up to a 20-in. light bar in the Front Bumper. Specifications: Material: Heavy-duty steel; Finish: Two-stage finish of E-Coated and then Texture Black NRT™to inhibit corrosion; Winch Plate Weight Rating: up to 16,500 lb. winch Applications: Most models of Ford, Chevy, GMC, and Dodge/Ram Website: www.deezee.com Enthuze Front and Rear Jeep Bumper Description: With Enthuze Modular Bumpers, you can customize your Jeep Wrangler to be as unique as you are. Optional components can be configured to create nine different designs for the front and one for the rear. The all-aluminum construction, carbide black powder coat and E-coat finish make them highly durable bumper options for your off-road ride. Specifications: Features cutouts and mounting tabs for OE lights and aftermarket LEDs. Applications: Available for the Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.enthuze.ca Go Industries Baja Bumper II Description: Go Industries’ Baja Bumper for the Ford F-150 Raptor is laser-cut, formed and welded together for a one-piece conforming design with ¼-in. brackets that are framemounted so it does not require any cutting or drilling. The bumper allows visibility for the OEM camera and features cut-outs for 3-in. cube lights which are not included. Specifications: Offered in two finishes; UA Coating or Powder Coat. Applications: For the 2017-2018 Ford F-150 Raptor. Website: www.goindustries.com JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 15
Go Rhino Jeep JK and JL Trailline Front Bumpers Description: Go Rhino’s Trailline front winch bumper is available in three distinct styles including the stubby bumper which is the most aggressive style and made for maximum tire clearance, the straight bumper which is more like the classic Wrangler look and the full bumper that fills out the front end and lines up with the stock fenders. Specifications: Available with an override centre hoop for additional light mounting above the winch. Applications: Available for the Jeep Wrangler JK and JL. Website: www.gorhino.com
ICI Magnum Front Stubby Winch-Ready Bumper for Jeep Wrangler JL Description: ICI’s RT-Series Magnum Stubby Winch-Ready front bumper for the Jeep Wrangler JL is able to accept up to a 12,500 lb. winch and is made from a heavy-duty coldrolled steel and boasts an OEM fit. The inner bumper and mounting brackets are made from ¼-in. steel while the exterior shell is manufactured from 1/8-in. steel for the ultimate durability. Specifications: Features a 3-piece assembly and offers the option to use a single, 4-in. round fog light or to utilize the factory lights. Applications: For the 2018-19 Jeep Wrangler JL. Website: www.icionline.com
Iron Cross JL Full Width Front Bumper Description: Available with or without a bar, the new full-width bumper combines wide coverage while maintaining a sleek, low profile design. Paired with Iron Cross’ new JL headlight, this combo can’t be beat! Applications: 2018-Current Jeep JL Website: www.ironcrossautomotive.com
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N-Fab M-RDS Prerunner Front Bumper Description: N-Fab’s M-RDS Prerunner front bumper follows the line of your truck to create an extremely clean and truly pre-runner look. The new Multi-Mount system allows you to mount various combinations of LED lights, and the bumper itself bolts onto the factory bumper mounts for an easy installation. Specifications: Features a fully 1-piece welded design using 1.75-in., .095 wall tubing. Applications: Available for select Chevrolet, Ford, Nissan and Toyota. Website: www.n-fab.com
Road Armor Stealth Front Winch Bumper Description: Road Armor’s Stealth Front Winch Bumper for the 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler features 3/16-in. heavy-duty steel construction and ¼-in. gusseting and internal bracketry. The bumper is CNC laser-cut and precision brake-formed and will not only provide you with an appearance upgrade but will also provide better protection for your vital front end components. Specifications: Features recessed light ports for auxiliary lighting and offers a direct, bolt-on design. Applications: 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler Website: www.roadarmor.com
Rugged Ridge Arcus Front Bumper with winch tray & tow hooks Description: The Rugged Ridge Arcus Front Bumper represents a daring design departure from the typical, with an alluring stamped-steel body and a patented design that utilizes a high-strength 11-gauge steel shell surrounding a ¼-inch thick steel winch plate, capable of holding most model winches up to a 12.5k lb. rating. Each hook is dual cross-drilled so they accept both 7/8 and ¾-inch D-rings. Clever recesses in the bumper offer direct frame access for effective lifting of the Jeep with a hi-lift jack. Built-in fog light pockets accept both factory Sport & Sahara fog light assemblies with no modification. Specifications: 11-gauge stamped steel shell / 1/4-in.-thick steel winch plate Applications: 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler JL / JLU Website: www.ruggedridge.com
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Rugged Ridge HD Series Bumpers Wranlger JL/JLU Description: Rugged Ridge HD Series Bumpers are trail-tested, proven designs that pack a serious punch. Whether you prefer the narrow, agile angles of the HD Stubby Front Bumper, or the burly look of the Full-Width, you will love the aggressive off-road presence they provide. Engineered to mount most any aftermarket winch for greater versatility, and well-equipped to perform in the clutch with built-in jack lifting points at every corner and massive recovery hooks, each one is dual-drilled to work with both ¾ and 7/8-inch shackles (shackles not included). Specifications: Fold & weld steel construction Applications: 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler JL / JLU Website: www.ruggedridge.com Smittybilt SRC Carbine Bumper Description: Smittybilt’s new SRC Carbine Bumper for Jeep features a removable 1.75-in. over-rider with light mounting tabs, and its new mid-width open top-and-side design fits almost all winches up to 12,000 lbs. They offer the ability to retain the factory fog lights, and raised corners for better off-road entries and exits in extreme conditions. Additionally, the unique triangulation anchor fastens to the frame in multiple locations. Specifications: Made from 3/16-in. cold-rolled steel. Applications: For Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.smittybilt.com Steelcraft Wrangler Stubby Bumper Description: Steelcraft’s new Wrangler Stubby Bumper was designed for those who want minimal bumpers but also want to keep a rugged and functional look. The bumper is fully winch-ready, has a spot to mount a 20-in. LED light bar and shackle ready. It has the ability to allow you to keep your factory fog lights and is E-coated and powder coated for maximum rust protection. Specifications: Features a one-piece design and is fully E-coated and powder coated. Applications: Available for the Jeep Wrangler JK and JL. Website: www.steelcraftautomotive.com TrailFX Front and Rear Bumpers for Wrangler JL Description: Trail FX’s new front and rear bumpers for the 2018-19 Jeep Wrangler JL are manufactured from heavy-duty, fully-welded, laser-cut steel with a textured black powder coat finish that matches other TrailFX Jeep products. The front bumper features cutouts for a 20-in. LED single row light bar as well as two 3-in. cube lights on either end. Specifications: Bumper comes with ¾-in. D-rings. Textured black powder coat finish for appearance and protection. Application: 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler JL. Website: www.TrailFX.com Warn Elite Series Full Width Bumper Description: Warn Industries’ Elite Series bumpers for the Jeep Wrangler JL are fully certified to withstand 12,000 lbs. of pulling force without deformation, and position the winch to deliver maximum airflow to the engine bay. It clears 37-in. tires with only a 2-in. lift and offers a built-in light port to mount either OE or aftermarket fog lights. Specifications: Features a durable flat black powder-coated finish with a five-stage pretreat process, integrated off-road jack and lifting points and shackle mounting tabs. Applications: Made for the Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU. Website: www.warn.com Westin Automotive WJ2 Full-Width Front Bumper Description: Westin Automotive’s WJ2 Full-Width Front Bumper allows you to fit your winch inside the bumper to allow for maximum airflow to your vehicle’s radiator, and is designed to allow winch installation with your bumper already installed. It is designed to utilize both styles of factory fog lights or round post lights and features rock light mount points on the lower bumper corners, holes to hide light harness wires and two front off-road jack points. Specifications: Bumper offers recovery hooks with a recovery shackle mount point to allow easy tow strap attachment. Comes with bumper, mounting hardware and installation instructions. Applications: For the Jeep Wrangler JK and JL. Website: www.westinautomotive.com 18 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
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FIRST DRIVE: 2020 JEEP GLADIATOR
Official Debut
We finally got some seat time in the all-new Jeep Gladiator mid-size pickup Story and photos by Dan Heyman
I
magine yourself in the boardroom at FCA five or so years ago. The plans for the Jeep Wrangler redesign have just been finalized, and it’s time to see what can be done to add even more cachet to one of the most beloved and well-recognized vehicles available today, and that’s before we even consider its historical significance. So, what to do, then? Well, as more and more households go the one-vehicle route, more and more car and truck buyers are asking for more from their vehicles. So it goes that a pickup truck today can get pretty far from the workaday roots they once had. It’s taken some time, but it’s to the point now that manufacturers are actually touting the lifestyle aspects of their pickups as opposed to their rock-moving, equipment-towing, crew-hauling aspects; see the Toyota Tacoma or new Ford Ranger. I would imagine, then, that the folks in that FCA boardroom probably saw this coming and so it was decided to ensure that Jeep – and parent brand FCA – wouldn’t be without an entrant in this burgeoning segment. So it goes that it was time to add a pickup bed – a proper pickup bed – to the Wrangler, and the Gladiator was born. We were dispatched to Sacramento, CA to find out what it was all about. Of course, “proper” is a subjective term; the Gladiator is offered with just a single, five-foot bed option (and four-door cab), so right away you can see how Jeep was positioning the Gladiator not to haul wood, perhaps, but dirt bikes or downhill bikes instead; there are even some “tread marks” punched into the back of the box. That would make it so much easier to haul dirt bikes, you see. In a nod to the wood-movers, however, they have made it so you can lock the rear tailgate at a 45-degree angle, allowing for easier fitment of longer objects. 20 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
important caveat: the Gladiator gets Dana 44 front and rear axles on all three trims (Sport S: $45,495, Overland: $49,495, Rubicon: $52,496), whereas the Wrangler only gets these on the Rubicon trim. Jeep says that in order for the Gladiator to perform like a proper pickup, the Danas were required at all levels. It also has the track bar and steel control arms from the Ram 1500. The result is a best-in-class tow rating of 3,470 kg and best-in-class 760 kg payload rating. These figures drop a little when you move to the Rubicon but if we’re honest, that’s not really what the Rubicon’s all about.
The cab itself gets a few added practicality pieces as well; the rear seats either fold flat or flip-up, stadium style, to allow for a little more space. There are also lockable storage areas beneath the seats for valuables (or wet items), but no flat load floor so you’ll have to get a little creative there. Otherwise, inside it’s all Wrangler – the dash is a direct lift, as are the climate controls, vents and so forth. Essentially, from the B-pillar forward, the Gladiator is all Wrangler Unlimited except for one
Indeed, the Rubicon is called as such because it’s built to conquer the famous 4x4 trail of the same name in California; it’s a trim meant to excel in all things off-road, and all things off-road we would try during the test. There was the scramble up and down jagged rock faces made completely greasy by recent rain in the area. Or the rutted grass trail that wasn’t even a trail until we showed up in our Gladiators. Or the sharp-as-shale dirt roads we had to take in order to get to the ranch where we sampled all of that other stuff. Turns out Jeep probably couldn’t have asked for better conditions in which to launch the Gladiator. While I thought that longer wheelbase (+ 480 mm on the Wrangler Unlimited) and longer overall length (+ 752 mm) would make it almost impossible to judge my progress
JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 21
over these slick, narrow roads, the beauty of the Gladiator – like so many Jeeps before it – is its squared-off corners. This makes it so much easier to pace in narrow spots even if you do have extra length, which I can’t say I really felt. Instead, I engaged 4L, off-road + mode (this automatically adjusts throttle and traction control to better suit the conditions) and felt the Gladiator scratch and claw (it’s got either rear-locking or full-locking mechanical diffs, activated by a toggle switch at the base of the centre stack) to a blemish-free traverse over all of this. While the diffs do their mechanical work, bigger 33-in. tires (35-in. items would also fit) do the physical work, spewing mud to the heavens and squelching over sharp rocks like a good pair of hiking boots. This is off-roading at its finest, the Gladiator’s added hauling capabilities not affecting its overlanding capabilities one iota. Oh, it can also crawl through up to 30 inches of water, and while we didn’t get to test this, I have little reason to doubt it. Power at this juncture comes from a single engine choice: a 3.6L Pentastar V6 good for 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque; a 442 lb-ft turbodiesel 6 is also on the way, but we won’t be getting the gas turbo-four found in the Wrangler. The capabilities required by the Gladiator simply wouldn’t allow for it. Transmission duties are handled by a six-speed manual at all levels; upgrading to an 8-speed auto like our tester had will cost an additional $1,595 regardless of trim. The Pentastar has worked well in most any application in which it’s been used, and it continues to do the yeoman’s job here – pleasant enough while cruising, but with good low-end torque when climbing or splashing through gripless, muddy fields. Unlike FCA’s 9-speed auto that has gotten many a nose out of joint, the 8-speed here works in unison with the V6 to provide ample forward progress. It gets a little loud, but some would say “that’s a Jeep thing” 22 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
and in this case, I agree with them. I want a little bit of a growl from my truck, which is a feeling I felt when I sampled the new Ford Ranger, as well. It just provides an added layer of immersion that I think any truck manufacturer with an entry in this segment would be loathe to miss out on. Of course, one of the places you’ll really hear that powertrain make its feelings felt is when towing; we were given the opportunity to put that towing capacity to work by towing a boat and trailer weighing about 2,300 kilos. Indeed, it was a rather loud experience that had me switching to manual mode for a spell just to make my forward progress that much smoother. Once up to speed, everything is kept in check, but since the Gladiator lacks a trailer blind spot monitor or trailer brake as standard (a trailer brake control will soon be made available), I’m not sure if towing loads like this are the right fit. I’d say a trailer with an ATV or maybe some Sea Doos would be better, which is fine considering those are the kind of lifestyle loads people that Jeep’s aiming at would want. Then again, the same could probably be said for most trucks at this level. Once out on the open road and free of said trailer, the Gladiator drives, sounds and feels pretty much exactly like a Wrangler. That is to say it’s not really what you’d call “civilized,” but a step in the right direction away from what it’s traditionally been thanks to certain subtle changes such as the grille and body panels shaped to decrease drag, that eight-speed transmission and extensive use of aluminum to save weight, putting less stress on the engine and making for quieter progress.
This makes it a little easier to enjoy the creature comforts the Gladiator has; yes, you can still take off the doors and either fold a soft top or remove hard top panels, but you’ve also got two levels of Uconnect infotainment (a 7-in. or 8.4-in. screen), optional leather seating (but you’ve got to pay on top of that to get heated seats, and only on Rubicon trims), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support and even a built-in WiFi hotspot. “WiFi hotspot”? “CarPlay”? Not really things you’d normally associate with anything based on a Wrangler, but there you go. The Jeep reps kept separating the Gladiator from the Wrangler during the launch; a bit of a strange paradox, but one you can understand if you see that the pickup game is very different than whichever game the Wrangler is in. The Gladiator has to walk the line a little, here, but it’s surely got the shoes for it.
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PREVIEW: LAND ROVER DEFENDER
Unmatched History
The upcoming Defender is of the utmost importance for Jaguar Land Rover
Story by Spencer Whitney, photos courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover
Audi and even Lexus - whose parent company Toyota produces more vehicles in a month than JLR does in a whole year.
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Thankfully, the marketing department at Land Rover has an unmatched 70-plus-year history of off-road prowess to tap in to when sales need a boost. Ever since their introduction in the late 1940s, Land Rover vehicles have carried with them an aura of unmatched technical performance thanks to simple but effective design. That same basic model (designated until 1989 simply by wheelbase length) carried on right through until 2016 when production of the Defender series ended amid increasing emission and safety standards (it was never offered with airbags or any kind of consideration for crash safety innovations like crumple zones or pedestrian collisions.)
aguar Land Rover is, despite the off-road heritage it carries, stuck in the mud right now. The company has just posted a massive loss of $6 billion, due to sales shortfalls in Asia and high costs associated with production infrastructure. This is all despite reporting record sales in Canada and the USA, and a growing luxury product line in our continually luxury-focused world. However, it doesn’t help that JLR competes with the likes of BMW,
Almost as soon as production ended, Land Rover purists immediately began asking “what next?” Indeed, there was a large gap left in the product line, especially for commercial customers who had come to rely on the versatility of a platform that offered more than competing brands despite the Defender’s utilitarian nature - toward the end of its life, they were offered in no fewer than 13 different body and chassis configurations. So what did Land Rover plan to do for the future of its most basic and most capable vehicle? JLR recently released some “spy” shot images of the upcoming Defender. 24 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
The new Defender has been in development for many years, and until recently had been kept completely under wraps. Official “spy”
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shots began to appear earlier this year, keeping in line with an old promise to fully reveal the new vehicle by the end of 2019. As the months have gone on we have seen more of this new 4x4’s camouflage disappear, and watched as it was tested in winter conditions, with off road equipment, and even on trails shared with built-up Jeeps in Moab. But can it continue the tradition set by the seven-decade-long life of its predecessor? Indeed Land Rover’s future depends on this new model. The Defender has always sat firmly in the entry level of the product line, and was once only preferred by farmers, arborists and tradespeople before it was refined in the late ‘00s. Any replacement should, hopefully, reinstate that entry level position - especially if JLR wants to re-invigorate enthusiasm for the brand by offering something of a competitor to light utility vehicles sold by Toyota, Mitsubishi and others. In fact, Ford UK is capitalizing on the void left by the Defender, and on the success of its utility vehicles, by declaring its commercial product line the “Backbone of Britain” in a new ad campaign. What might a new Defender offer? It’s likely to be offered with a choice of powerful and efficient gas and diesel engines from the manufacturer’s “Ingenium” design, and possibly even as a hybrid or full-on electric vehicle. It’s been spotted in both two-door “90” and four-door “110” configurations, with what appears to be independent ad-
The last of the original Defenders rolls off the line at a special event back in 2016, marking the official end of production
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justable air suspension similar to what comes in the Discovery series. The added fact that production is slated to take place in Slovakia alongside the Discovery all but confirms that the new model will be based heavily on the existing platform, and not a body-on-frame with solid axles. A small bit of irony, since the original Discovery (which turns 30 this year) used a drivetrain borrowed straight from the Defender 90 to save on design and production costs. That original Discovery was wildly successful and has been credited with being the vehicle that saved Land Rover from extinction, since it provided a rugged but somewhat refined alternative to the Defender at a competitive price - and it wowed discerning North Americans, paving the way for newer models of the upmarket Range Rover, which is now ubiquitous in affluent parts of Canada and the USA.
Ultimately, buyers will get to decide whether it becomes popular enough to be highly regarded in its own right. Currently, the fullsize Discovery is the most capable Land Rover on offer, but a properly equipped model with two-speed transfer case will set you back over $70,000. That’s no small change for most buyers, and that kind of price will either deter buyers to a Wrangler Rubicon, or to the multitude of other vehicles in that price range. If Jaguar Land Rover can produce a real alternative that tops today’s off-road leaders, they just might be able to recoup some of those losses. We’re in an era where classic Defenders are more popular than ever, and SUV is considered a bad word. Now more than ever, Land Rover needs to carry on its off-road heritage with a truly capable “4x4 for everyone.”
But can the new Defender be the successful vehicle that JLR desperately needs it to be right now? Purists will disagree that it deserves the name, and will say it should have been presented more like a classic 4x4 - Mercedes and Suzuki seem to have been able to make older designs work in the G-class and Jimmy, respectively. Sales for both models have been very strong indeed. It is possible that the return of the Defender to North American showrooms after more than 20 years will be JLR’s saving grace, if they can price it as a real competitor to the top-trim models of the seemingly undefeatable Jeep Wrangler lineup (which today looks suspiciously similar to Defender models available in the last 30 years of its life.) JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 27
HISTORY: 1997 JEEP DAKAR CONCEPT
Double-Take The Jeep Dakar turned some heads at the 1997 North American auto shows
Story by John Gunnell, photos courtesy of FCA Canada
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here were a lot of strained necks at 1997 auto shows across North America as Jeep fans tried to get a glimpse of the Jeep Dakar concept vehicle. Jeep designers said that they were confident that outdoor enthusiasts would stop to do a double-take at the Dakar—a dream machine that was essentially a four-door Jeep Wrangler. It was first revealed at the 1997 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Mich.
“People will definitely look twice when they see the Dakar,” said Chrysler’s vice president of product design John E. Herlitz. “Compared to the 1997 Jeep Wrangler, the Dakar comes complete with twice as many doors and is prepared for twice the adventure.” Jeep designers made room for the two additional doors by stretching the Wrangler wheelbase to 108.5 inches, adding almost 15 inches to the overall length of the vehicle. With the lengthened wheelbase, it was possible to offer additional interior room for passengers and their gear. Chrysler design director Trevor M. Creed pointed out that the extra length also improved the ride since it positioned rear-seat passengers in front of the rear axle, instead of directly on top of it. To enhance the sense of being outdoors and further build on the adventuresome spirit of the Jeep Wrangler, the show car—we mean show Jeep—was given a windshield that was distinct from that of the Wrangler. It also had different side glass and an all-new steel roof. The unique Dakar roof offered a variety of exciting features including a full-length built-in tubular roof rack, a manual sliding canvas sun roof, a front-of-the-roof-mounted rally lamp package, rooftop spare tire storage and strategically-placed access hand rails that ran the entire length of the D-pillar. The spare tire was clamped on the roof bars and featured a special sliding mechanism that allowed for easy, quick, hassle-free removal.
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Other multi-purpose features of the Dakar included a folding shovel integrated into the vehicle’s front fender, jerry cans built onto the tailgate and an adventure module, designed to fit inside the rear door, that features a night-vision scope, a pair of binoculars, a flashlight and a compass. “With the Dakar, you’ll always be prepared,” Creed advised. “The concept Jeep is thought out so you’ll never know where the Dakar’s spirit of adventure may take you.” The Dakar concept’s earth-toned interior shared the same rugged characteristics offered in the 1997 Jeep Wrangler, but also featured wood trim, woven leather seats and Berber carpeting. “We utilized
SPECIFICATIONS: Overall length.......................................................166.5 inches Overall width . ........................................................72.0 inches Overall height.........................................................75.0 inches Wheelbase ...........................................................108.5 inches Front track ............................................................65.4 inches Rear track................................................................62.0 inches Wheels.................................................................Cast Aluminum Front........................................................ 31 x 10.5 Wrangler A/T Rear......................................................... 31 x 10.5 Wrangler A/T Engine.................................................................. 4.0L, In-line six Drivetrain.................................................Four-speed automatic Body...................................... Four-door; All-steel body on frame Front suspension.............................Front carryover Wrangler Rear suspension.............................. Rear carryover Wrangler Brakes.................................................................................. ABS Front...................................................................................... Disc Rear......................................................................................Drum Exterior colour..................................................... Desert Sand Interior trim.... Saddle tan interior with woven leather seat inserts
Whether the show goer looking at the Dakar dreamed of being on a safari, at the beach or even just stargazing, the combination of the new four-door Wrangler body and thoughtful features made the Jeep Dakar a winner on the show circuit. wood and leather to give the interior of the vehicle more of a civilized, European-style flavour,” said Creed. At a time when many sport utility vehicles shared the same look, the Dakar was in a class by itself. No one would mistake it for something else, because it had an authentic, instantly recognizable design execution that opened up new styling opportunities for one of the world’s most recognized brands.
The Dakar concept led to Jeep marketing a long-wheelbase twodoor Wrangler and then the four-door Wrangler. Beginning in 2004 and through 2006, the long-wheelbase Wrangler Unlimited with two doors was offered. This style was available only with automatic transmission in 2004, but a six-speed manual option was added for 2005 and 2006. In 2007, the long-wheelbase Wranglers became four-door only models that looked much like the Dakar in a basic sense. They had 20 inches more length. By mid 2017, four-door models represented three quarters of all new Wranglers sold.
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PRODUCTS: JEEP TOPS
BUYERS’ GUIDE Bedrug Jeep Headliner
Description: Bedrug’s Jeep Headliner kit is a 100% waterproof, fully custom die-cut headliner kit that installs quickly and does not require you to remove your hard top. The individual pieces can be quickly installed by removing the specially-designed tape and pressing firmly into place. The material resists all harsh chemicals and will not stain, stink, mold or mildew, while the ½-in. polypropylene foam will insulate your interior from road noise and heat. Specifications: Material resists hard chemicals and will not stain, stink, mold or mildew. Applications: Now available for the Jeep Wrangler JL. Website: www.bedrug.com
Bestop TrekTop Soft Top for Wrangler JL Description: Bestop’s new TrekTop premium soft top for the Jeep Wrangler JL 2-door can be run fully enclosed as an all-season soft top or simply remove the sides and rear window and enjoy as a bikini top. The top can be easily opened from inside the Jeep and now features new and improved easy to open latches. The fastback design gives your Jeep a customized look and the top itself comes with its own hardware and does not require drilling for installation. Specifications: Currently available in Black Twill and Black Diamond fabrics. Applications: Available for the 2018-19 Jeep Wrangler JL. Website: www.bestop.com
Bestop Sunrider for Hardtop Descriptions: Bestop’s Sunrider for Hardtop is an all-weather, all-purpose solution to the stock bulky freedom panels, and allow you to experience an open-air driving experience without having to have a full soft top. The ready-to install Sunrider requires no drilling or modifications and includes pre-installed fabric-on-frame assembly, door rails and instructions. Specifications: Choose between 30-oz Black Twill acrylic fabric or 28-oz. Black Diamond fabric. Applications: Available for the Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU and 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Website: www.bestop.com
Bushwacker Trail Armor Soft Top Description: Bushwacker’s Trail Armor Soft Top is offered as a flat back or fastback top, both of which feature a frameless design and an easy, one-handed fold-back sunroof operation with fold-forward sunroof option for rear passengers. The tops are made from a twill material that provides a quiet ride when closed and both feature pressed, polished and tinted windows. Specifications: Made of premium 30 oz. triple-layered twill material for a quiet ride. Features heavy-duty zippered pockets for window and cell phone storage. Applications: Available for the Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.bushwacker.com
DV8 Off Road Fastback Hardtop Description: DV8 Off Road’s Fastback hard tops are made using high quality seals, fibreglass and advanced aerodynamics in order to remain quiet when driving. The tops are a two-piece design which allows the part over the front seats to lift off like a targa top while also featuring a carpeted interior and tinted windows. Specifications: Uses OEM mounting system and OEM seal placement. Applications: 2018+ Jeep Wrangler JL. Website: www.dv8offroad.com 30 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
Rampage Mesh Shade Top Description: Rampage Products has a new addition to its extensive line of Jeep soft tops with the introduction of the new Mesh Shade Top. The top will provide protection from harsh UV rays and the heat while still allowing a fresh, cool breeze to flow throughout the vehicle. Installation of the top is easy and it fits under existing hard or soft tops, making it easy to enjoy whenever you’d like. Specifications: Constructed from a durable nylon mesh fabric. Applications: For owners of 2007-17 Jeep JK and JKU. Website: www.rampageproducts.com Rugged Ridge Black Diamond Bowless Top Description: Rugged Ridge’s black diamond bowless top features a fully enclosed design that quickly converts from a full top to a Savannah top without the need for the bulky OE soft top frame. The top has been engineered to fit over the factory sports bar and whisper bars are supplied which dramatically reduce wind and road noise. Also featured are zippered mesh corner pockets for extra and convenient storage. Specifications: Available only for the 2-door model. Applications: Made for the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.ruggedridge.com Rugged Ridge Exo-Top Description: Innovative design combines a full soft top with a sturdy roof rack, allowing for an open-roof driving experience without the need to remove the roof rack to retract the roof. The patent-pending design gives you the best of both worlds in one comprehensive package. Great for the outdoor enthusiast who needs to haul loads of gear without giving up the sky view that Jeeps are known for. The 300-pound-capacity roof rack serves as the frame for the advanced suspension soft top for a simple bolt-on installation on both 2- and 4-door JK models. Specifications: 1.25-in. diameter steel tube rack with black textured powder coat finish. 28 oz. Black Diamond OEM Grade Soft Top. 30 mil pressed optically clear windows with 31% tint Applications: 2007-Present Jeep Wrangler JK 2-door and JKU 4-door models. Website: www.ruggedridge.com Smittybilt Safari Hard Top Descriptions: Smittybilt’s Safari Hard top is a one-piece top that features a unique overland look and provides you with 14.25 cubic feet of extra interior space. The dual rear windows utilize hydraulic lift struts while the military-spec mildew-free carpeted headliner will not retain moisture or chemicals. The DOT-approved safety glass features a 31-percent tint while the textured grain of the top complements the look of the Wrangler. Specifications: Manufactured from honeycomb, hand-laid fibreglass for extra strength. Applications: For 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.smittybilt.com Smittybilt Slant Hard Top Description: Smittybilt’s Slant Hard Top features a two-piece design with a removable targa top front section for a moon roof effect and features a mildew-resistant carpeted interior. The top has a rear window defroster and offers better sound protection than the Jeep’s stock hard top. In addition, the top provides increased departure angles when used with slanted tire carriers to allow you to go into even more extreme off-road situations. Specifications: Features a hand-laid, honeycomb fibreglass construction for extra strength and rigidity. Applications: Available for the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.smittybilt.com
Westin Automotive Wade Skytop Descriptions: Westin Automotive’s Wade Skytop is a translucent Jeep top that provides an open feel while still providing protection from the elements. The high glass smoke reduces heat and glare, and the products have a computer-aided design to ensure a perfect fit. It features a quick-and-easy installation that requires no drilling. Specifications: Manufactured from high-gloss smoke impact acrylic. Applications: Available for 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler JK. Website: www.westinautomotive.com JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 31
FEATURE: JEFFERSON SHOW & SWAP
Early Barometer Jefferson’s car show is always a good sign of what’s to come in the summer months
Story and photos by John Gunnell Wisconsin’s Spring Jefferson Car Show and Swap Meet is one of the first events of the year. “Jefferson” is located centrally in the southern part of the state, about halfway between Milwaukee and Madison. Its location is also convenient to Corvette hobbyists from Indiana, Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota, and Canada is not that far away, either.
Since it happens so early in the season, Jefferson is considered a barometer for what’s coming up for enthusiasts in the sunny summer. Speaking of weather and seasons, Spring Jefferson 2019 was supposed to get hit with 5-8 inches of snow on Saturday April 27. Like many other attendees, Off-Road Plus went to the event on Friday and the Jefferson County Fairgrounds was packed with vehicles and hopping with people. A big attraction at Jefferson is the event’s large Car Corral and we like to check out the 4x4s for sale to gauge how that market niche looks and where some asking prices for off-road trucks are at. In line with modern trends, there seemed to be more Jeeps, SUVs and 4x4 trucks at the show this spring. They ranged from 1950s to 2000s models. One interesting offering was a two-tone redand-white 1961 Willys-Jeep station wagon that was owned by the seller “for many years.” It had 67,000 original miles and featured new brakes, new brake drums, a fresh paint job, a very nicelooking new interior, new tires and new wheel rims. Most importantly, it had the trademark Willys “4-WheelDrive” emblems on the rear corners of the hood. It was in No. 3 (very good but not mint) condition, with the exception of three cracks, caused by bullets or pellets, that caused “spider web” type cracks in the passenger side door window. The vent window was OK.
This ’59 Willys 4-WheelDrive pickup was sold at Jefferson. 32 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
The owner had the Willys wagon tagged at $13,800 (USD) or best offer. The 2019 Collector
value” at $11,550. Unfortunately, the new owner had removed any price signs, so we have no idea what the pickup changed hands for. “Xtreme Abuse” was the name lettered on a heavily hot-rodded and roughed-up Jeep Cherokee that had obviously seen its share of off-road racing and/or mud bogging. Someone stuffed
With a big 460 and five-speed, this hefty California Ford could haul. Car Price Guide (www.oldcarsbookstore.com) says $9,230 for a No. 3 (Very Good) car like this one and $13,650 for a one-stepup No. 2 (Fine) car, so the asking price on the Willys seemed a tad high, but remember, the owner was willing to take offers. While the red-and-white wagon was a nice rig, a 1959 WillysJeep 4-WheelDrive 1/2-ton pickup done in a turquoise greenand-white two-tone combination was even nicer. But this one sold quickly. The show opened at 10 am and “sold” was chalked on the windshield by 10:30 or 11. This one was in at least No. 2 condition, which would put the Collector Car Price Guide “book
CJ5 from 1980 was hopped up with Rugged Ridge goodies. a 4.7-litre stroker engine into it and set it up for a nitrous oxide boost. The asking price on this puppy was $3,500 and no price guide provides book values for such a heavily modified Jeep wagon. When it comes to off-road racers, it is what it is.
“Xtreme Abuse” was a Jeep Cherokee set up for off-roading events. JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 33
Imagine yourself humming along the highway in this luxurious H2 Hummer.
Parked right next to Extreme Abuse was a 1988 Ford F350 4x4 dualie crew cab pickup that was similarly performance-modified. It was powered by a Ford 460-cid V8 backed up by a five-speed tranny, a new clutch and a rebuilt Dana 60 rear axle. A window sign said that it was a California truck and had 25,000 miles on the motor and transmission. It also had new brakes, new shocks, new tires and a $6,000 asking price. For those on a tighter budget, parked on a nearby trailer was a 1978 GMC 4x4 pickup nicknamed “The Eliminator.” This was a rougherbut-savable truck in an attractive gold colour with a windsplitter on the back of the cab. It was a “Big Dooley”-style GM product with the rear fenders flared out. The asking price was $2,000 and the owner was willing to part the truck out. Hopefully it gets rescued from the scrap heap and rebuilt into something cool. Getting back to Jeeps (which seem incredibly popular today), another one for sale at Jefferson was a 1980 CJ5 with 107,000 miles and a $4,900 price tag. It featured flat black finish, a chrome grille and a hefty black-painted front grille guard. The Rugged Ridge decal on the windshield hinted that this 4x4 had some upgrading done to it. Totally stock, this one would book out at about the No. 4 price ($3,530) in the Collector Car Price Guide, but considering the Rugged Ridge add-ons, $4,900 seemed like a plausible estimate. Other 4x4s we spotted at Jefferson ranged from a really nice spruced up Hummer H2 Luxury SUV to a 2007 Chevy Silverado 2500 H-D pickup in No. 2 condition. The 2019 Collector Car Price Guide says the Chevy would book for $8,680 plus 20 percent for four-wheel drive or $10,416 total. The Hummer H2 Luxury isn’t listed in that book, but the National Automobile Dealer Assoc. (NADA) online price guide puts high retail value for a unit like this one at $13,950. To be honest, collectors and high-end dealers are asking more like $15,000 to $25,000 for this model in good shape. Based on these observations we made at Jefferson, it seems like 2019 might be a good year to invest in a vintage or special-interest 34 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
Jeep, SUV or 4x4 truck as long as it’s not a “barn find” condition car that will take lots of money to restore. By 2022, about 84 percent of the new vehicles GM sells will be some kind of truck or SUV. Ford’s ratio of domestic SUV and truck sales will hit 90 percent; Fiat Chrysler’s will be a huge 97 percent. The popularity of older trucks and SUVs is following the same trend line. Vintage off-road vehicles are on track to become even hotter collectibles and great investments.
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Growing Trend Restoring off-road military vehicles gaining popularity
Story and photos by John Gunnell
T
he restoration of “Off-Road Soldiers from the Past” (vintage military vehicles) is growing these days. Steve Kavanaugh of Retired Warhorses (www.RetiredWarhorses.com) in Brentwood, Calif., runs a full-service restoration shop for Hummer H1 and HMMWV vehicles and does movie, commercial and photography background work. Kavanaugh told Off-Road Plus more owners are restoring “soldiers.” John Bizal of Midwest Military Parts (www.midwestmilitary.net) in Prior Lake, Minn. noted that the hobby “has changed from people
Willys-Overland built the M38A Jeep from 1950-1957. working on their own military vehicles to a younger generation that wants turn-key trucks they can buy and drive.” Large companies like Omix-ADA (www.omix-ada.com), which sells Jeep parts and products, realize that the military vehicle market exists and generates good business. The nearly 40-year-old Military Vehicle Preservation Assoc. (www.mvpa.org) has 8,000 members and is an international organization for those interested in the acquisition, restoration, preservation, safe operation and public education of historic military transport. This ¼-ton frontline ambulance was built in 1953-1958 and 1962-1967. 36 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
Bizal believes that there could be up to 30,000 owners of historic military vehicles across the country. Hank van Dongren,
marketing manager for Omix-ADA, said that he has no really good indication of how big the overall military vehicle niche is because “The market stretches beyond the WillysJeep and Jeep brands that we deal with, but year-to-year sales of our products are very stable. As far as Jeeps are concerned, we see most restorations done by individuals who are backyard mechanics.” The sizes of companies that sell military vehicle parts vary. Kavanaugh runs a one-man operation from a 3,000 sq. ft. shop. Midwest Military is a one-man hobby turned business. Bazil used to have five employees, but has cut back. Omix-ADA has over 300,000 sq. ft. with warehouses in Georgia and Kansas. It employs over 100 full-time workers and has an in-house engineering department for exclusive product development. Charles Talbert of M Series Rebuild LLC (www.mseriesrebuild.com) in Norwood, N.C. rebuilds M-series military trucks and equipment and civilian Dodge Power Wagons. The company has mechanical work, rebuilding and assembly going on in one large building. Another location houses teardown, fabrication, bodywork and paint. A paint booth is located in the second building. It is isolated from other work areas for cleanliness. A typical 132-page issue of Military Vehicles (www.militaryvehiclesmagazine.com) has 134 ads, of which 39 are full-pages. The advertisers range from Coker Tire with NDT and NDCC military-spec tires to the U.S. Government (www.govplanet.com) selling used Department of Defense rolling stock. Specialists such as D & L Bensinger (www.dlbensinger.com) of Narvon, Pa., sell reproduction Jeep bodies and parts. According to Steve Kavanaugh, the largest military vehicle event is the semi-annual show at Camp Delta in Tower Park, due west of Stockton Calif. This show is organized by the California Military Vehicle Collectors Club (www.mvccnews.net), an MVPA chapter.
Kaiser-Jeep 1-1/4-ton M715 cargo truck. Henk van Dongen says most of the consumers Omix-ADA reaches are amateur restorers who are slightly older than 40 years-old. Their wants and shopping habits vary depending on what they are working on at the moment. For some, price is the main driver, but for others who are looking for a particular part, quality is more important. Kavanaugh of Retired Warhorses noted, “There are customers who like the mechanical aspect of restoring a military vehicle and a very large percentage are ex-military personnel. They tend to like whatever they drove during their military careers. Kavanaugh said the international market is strong. “A lot falls under Lend Lease,” he explained. “Collecting American military vehicles is especially strong in countries like France and Belgium. They have some stuff over there that’s incredible.” Professional military vehicle restorers have different views of market segments. While Talbert says the primary interest is in
A Korean War era M-38 Jeep.
Willys-Overland made the M38 ¼ton 4x4 Jeep from 1950-1952.
1967-1969 style Kaiser 1-1/4-ton M725 4x4 military ambulance. JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 37
“What I see in the military vehicle market is that vehicles in really good condition are harder and harder to find,” Charles Talbert explained. “With people acquiring vehicles that need more attention, the cost of a top-notch restoration goes up. What I’ve seen over the last 3-4 years is a definite decline in the affordability of a nicely restored truck.” M Series Rebuild provides restored vehicles built to better-than-new condition. “Bear in mind that “restoration” means many things to different people,” Talbert said. “At M Series, it means nothing at all is left unturned; we go down to the bare frame rails and back up to the complete rebuild of every component.” One of the earliest military 4x4s is this 1919 FWD Model B Ammunitions carrier. WWII equipment, Bizel specializes in models made between 1940 and 1965. Army Jeep of Levittown, Pa., (www.armyjeepparts.net) sells parts for about 16 types of Jeeps, as well as trailers and other military vehicles. “As far as the newer M Series trucks that are popular on the East Coast and in the Midwest, I think it has to do with the availability of surplus DRMO (Defense Reutilization and Marketing Offices) units,” said Kavanaugh. “About 150 DRMO offices are located at military installations in 43 states and overseas. They receive and screen turned-in military property. If property cannot be re-utilized within the Department of Defense, it is further screened for transfer or donation to federal or state agencies or other qualified organizations. Only property that can’t be reused is sold as surplus.”
Talbert said each individual body piece is blasted, etched and repaired using the best old school methods, (not loaded up with body filler, etc.). Each part is epoxy primed with high-build primer then painted with a urethane base coat and a clear coat. “If a client wants less, we can reduce quality a little,” he noted. “But not to the point where problems will arise because of cutting corners.” Tom Zat of Alfa Heaven in Anawa, Wis., (www.alfaheaven.com) sells many camo-decorated, reconditioned military vehicles to hunters, fishermen and outdoors types. When he found out it was illegal to sell them in Wisconsin, he fought the state law and got it changed. Now, his restored K-5 Blazers and other trucks are sold in 50 states. All of the experts interviewed agreed that the military niche is only part of the story. Henk van Dongen of Omix-ADA pointed out, “While we supply WWII military Jeep parts to collectors, our real strength is the number of parts we sell to off-road enthusiasts.”
1994 AM General M998A1 military Humvee. 38 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
NO PROBLEMO.
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ROAD TEST: 2019 HONDA RIDGELINE
Truly Different
Honda’s Ridgeline is unlike any other mid-size truck Story by Benjamin Yong, photos courtesy of Honda Canada
I
’ve said it in the past and I’ll say it again — the second generation Honda Ridgeline is the perfect truck for people who don’t need a truck. What do I mean by my statement? The folks at the Japanese manufacturer have made the perfect blend of car and pickup, not seen since the glory days of the ‘80s and ‘90s when mini trucking was king. Released two years ago, this mid-size vehicle vastly improved on the outgoing model wearing a handsome front end looking very similar to the one on the contemporary Pilot SUV, and that’s because both — along with the brand new Passport — are built on the company’s Global Light Truck platform at the Alabama production facility. Front and centre is the signature flying wing grille featuring a chrome bar extending out overtop of the optional LED headlamps like a pair of
eyebrows. Below the grille, a rugged black garnish protects the lower part of the bumper and extends over the wheel arches, along the bottom of the doors and wraps around underneath the bed. Although the bed measuring 1,626 millimetres in length is shorter than those offered on modern competitors (the upside being the pickup can fit in places most others can’t), it’s 100 millimetres longer and 140 millimetres wider than before and can accommodate up to four-footwide items in-between the wheel wells. Thanks to high-strength glass fibre-reinforced SMC composite construction, a liner is not required as would be on conventional steel examples. Other highlights not usually seen include a unique Dual-Action Tailgate that not only opens down, capable of supporting a maximum 300 pounds in this position, but also out to the side when space is tight or to access an innovative integrated lockable trunk able to squeeze in 207 litres of cargo. Hint: perfect for an ice cooler. Honda calls the Ridgeline the “ultimate tailgate vehicle” and it’s hard to argue with them considering the above, and a world-first Truck Bed Audio System. Six “exciters” are strategically embedded to dole out 540watts of sound, perfect for those summertime open-air cookouts. The special stereo hardware is controlled via the eight-inch Display Audio infotainment home screen, or through the HondaLink smartphone app. While the brand brought the rotary volume knob back to life on several current products, users have to rely on touch commands or steering wheel buttons for now. There’s a hint of lag when navigating through the various menus, although response is nowhere near as slow as the software found in Acuras, for example the 2019 RDX I recently tested. Sitting inside, one would hardly know they were in a truck, the cabin of our Black Edition trim boasting contrast-red-stitched leather upholstery, red ambient lighting and ample room for five passengers. Aesthetically,
40 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
the interior appears a tad dated, particularly the bulky plain-looking plastic shifter. The rear seat cushions can flip up — similar to the Magic Seats in the Fit hatchback — to carry awkwardly-shaped items such as a flat-screen TV or bicycle. All Ridgelines are powered by a naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Output is rated at 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, an improvement of 30 and 15, respectively, compared to previously. And when duty calls, the pickup can haul quite a bit, advertising a 5,000-pound payload capacity and Trailer Stability Assist, which detects and counters oscillations from improper loading, excessive speed, adverse road conditions, crosswinds or emergency-avoidance manoeuvres. One of the vehicle’s best attributes is driving feel. The unibody, rather than conventional body-on-frame, design is ultra-rigid, constructed using lightweight high-strength steel, aluminum and magnesium. Combined with fully-independent suspension, adaptive electric power steering and an always-on all-wheel drive system, handling is sharper than anything else I’ve experienced in the segment.
Base price (MSRP): ....................................................$49,990 Type: . .......................................................................Pickup truck Layout: ........................................... front engine, all-wheel drive Engine: ........................................................................... 3.5L V6 Transmission: .............................................6-speed automatic Power: ....................................................... 280 hp @ 6,000 rpm Torque: .................................................... 262 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm Brakes: ..................................................front/rear disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy): ..................12.8 / 9.5 As is the case across the rest of the portfolio, the award-winning Honda Sensing suite of driver assist technologies is available, like collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning and keep assist, radar cruise control, blind spot information and rear cross traffic alert. The 2019 Ridgeline is sold in four grades: Sport, starting at MSRP $40,990, EX-L ($43,990), Touring ($48,490) and the aforementioned top-of-the-line Black Edition ($49,990).
JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 41
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
GEARING UP
Dick Cepek Adds Additional Sizes to Trail Country EXP Tire Line
Steelcraft’s Rocker Armor Steps for Jeep Wrangler JL Steelcraft’s Rocker Armor steps feature strong 2-inch tube structure, and are designed to maintain high ground clearance for off-road vehicles, specifically 2018-19 Jeep Wrangler JL’s. The steps also include a reverse punch plate surface for maximum step traction which is perfect for getting safely in and out of your vehicle, especially lifted applications as many Jeeps are. The steps install to the OE mounting locations and are E-coat and powder coat black finished for a seamless look.
Dick Cepek’s Trail Country EXP tire features a hybrid design that sits between a mud-terrain and an all-terrain for the best combination of a smooth ride and great traction. The silica-reinforced compound improves cut and chip resistance and also wet traction, while the large, deep tread elements provide excellent on- and off-road capability and wear. The high-tensile body ply cord enhances the sidewall strength while also reducing ride harshness and weight. Eight new sizes are available including all the way up to 37x13.50R22LT. For complete sizing listings, please visit the Dick Cepek website. For more information please go to www.dickcepek.com
For more information please go to www.steelcraftautomotive.com
Bright Source’s New ECO 2 Series Light Bars Holley Releases iNTECH’s Line of Cold Air Intakes for Jeep Bright Source’s new ECO 2 Series Light Bars feature a slimmer housing, so installation is easy on truck bumpers behind the grill. In addition, the ECO 2 Light Bars have both a side-mount option and a sliding base-mount option to provide a greater range of installation choices. The light output of the bars has also been boosted by 10 percent and they are available in 8-, 12-, 22- and 32-in. models with curved bars becoming available in the Fall of this year.
Holley has recently announced the expansion of iNTECH’s line of cold-air intakes for the 2018-19 3.6L V6 Jeep Wrangler JLs. The intakes create as much as 24 horsepower and 22 lb-ft of torque over the factory air intake system and do it across a wide RPM brand. The filter media features an inner and outer aluminum mesh which eliminates filter deformation and rust. The vertical filter position aids in helping filters shed dust while off-road, while the intake itself is closer to the intake vents and the reusable and washable high-flow four-layer dry-air filter eliminates the need for filter oils.
For more information please go to www.brightsource.ca
For more information please go to www.holley.com
42 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
ARB Releases Updated Fridge Freezer with New Features ARB has given its current Classic Fridge Freezer series an upgrade by introducing the Classic Fridge Freezer Series II that incorporates a new modern colour scheme and some added features. The new Fridge Freezer has a dimmable, backlit touchpad for easy night-time operation and 12V power input readout for simple voltage monitoring on the display. A transmitter allows remote display and control with a new app which is available for download onto smart devices or ARB’s LINX unit. This allows the user to turn the fridge on/off and manually adjust the target temperature plus alert when the lid is left open. For more information please go to www.arbusa.com
Superlift’s 4-In. Dual-Rate Coil Kit for Wrangler JL Superlift’s all-new Dual Rate Coil Springs 4-inch lift kit for the 2018 Wrangler JL Unlimited is the first 4-inch lift kit on the market with replacement dual-rate coil springs that are location-specific. Through specialized testing, Superlift’s engineers determined that the same coil spring rate cannot be used side-to-side. These new dual-rate coil springs will provide excellent ride quality on-road while allowing more extension for off-road use. They will also provide an even stance and long-lasting durability, and they come with shock extension brackets or FOX Shocks. For more information please go to www.superlift.com
Superchips Flashcal and Amp’D Kits Superchips Flashcal + Amp’D kits offer the most popular tire/gear calibration features along with six throttle sensitivity settings that can be switched on the fly. This performance bundle is designed
to impress and will provide instant results by doing things such as correcting your speedometer for tire upgrades and gear and axle swaps, reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes and improving the throttle sensitivity that reduces the pedal lag that can often be experienced. The bundle is available for 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. For more information please go to www.superchips.com
Rugged Ridge JL Tube Doors Rugged Ridge is proud to offer an all-new Front Tube Door for the Wrangler JL models. Utilizing a continuous-tube styling on the door’s perimeter and a contoured latch plate, the Rugged Ridge Tube Doors for JL add a classic off-road element to what is already one of the most capable Jeeps ever. Constructed from trail-proven 2-inch OD steel tubing and fully welded for rugged, rattle-free performance whether you are on or off-road. Each door comes fully assembled with a secure rotary latching mechanism and factory-style hinge pins for a fast & easy installation. Available in pairs for front & rear. For more information please go to www.ruggedridge.com
JUNE/JULY 2019 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE 43
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
Grid Offroad GD12 Wheels
BDS Dual Steering Stabilizers for Wrangler JL
Grid Offroad’s GD12 wheels are available in two different finishes, including a double dark tint with a matte black lip and a gloss black plus milled finish, which allow you to choose the style best suited to your ride. They are available for a number of different applications in 5-, 6- and 8-lug fitments and in 18x9, 20x9, 20x10, 22x12 and 24x14 sizes.
BDS Suspension is now offering dual steering stabilizer kits for the 2018+ Jeep Wrangler JL, designed to improve overall drivability with oversized tires installed. Available with a choice of NXT or FOX 2.0 cylinders, the BDS-branded dual steering stabilizer kits will improve the look and performance of the new Wrangler JL. The mounts are built from strong 3/8-in. steel and finished in a durable textured black powder coat.
For more information please go to www.grid-offroad.com
For more information please go to www.bds-suspension.com
44 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019
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WINCHIN’ OUT First rule of getting stuck, pose for the picture.
Sponsored by:
®
He was so close to home!
Can’t tell if they’re stuck or just posing for the photo.
Easy for us to say, but this mud pit looks obviously deep.
This is one of the most stuck we’ve seen in a while.
It’s always important to bring friends on the trail.
We’re sure that most of you have had the misfortune of getting stuck while out on a weekend adventure. So send us your photos of your adventure to stucktrucks@rpmcanada.ca and if we use your photos we’ll send you a cool RPM Media hat! 46 OFF-ROAD Plus MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2019