During a recent four-wheel adventure, we ran into Ralph Peterson Jr. and his '03 Jeep Wrangler off-roading in the backwoods of Manhattan, Kansas. Over the past years, this lifetime machinist has been spending more and more time appreciating the local hills and fire roads not far from his home. All those years working with tools and other metal-working fabrication-type equipment has lead to the construction of his new off-road adventure vehicle. We enjoyed spending time with Ralph and his wife Brenda so much that we had to share our experience.
Our ride through the woods was great and we thank both Ralph and Brenda for showing us a good time and what their Jeep was capable of. They informed us that the future of this Jeep includes engine modifications, custom interior components, advanced safety equipment, and many more parts that will soon be along for their next adventure.
| SPECIFICATIONS |
| Year/make/model: | '03 Jeep Wrangler |
| Owner/hometown: | Ralph D. Peterson Jr./ |
| Wichita, Kansas |
| Engine: | 4.0L six-cylinder |
| Transmission: | five-speed manual |
| Transfer case: | Atlas II 4.3:1 with H/D |
| output shaft |
| Suspension: | Rubicon Express 4-inch |
| long-arm |
| Axles: | TeraFlex CRD 60 axles |
| Ring-and-pinion: | 4.88 |
| Tires/wheels: | 36x14.5x15 TSL radials/ |
| Marsh Racing bead locks |