So what else did we find underneath this Grand that allows it to crawl so easily, you ask? How about an NP242 transfer case running a 4.1 ratio with a Currie HD slip-yoke eliminator kit setup and custom 1310 drivelines installed by Drivelines Incorporated of Lake Forest, California. Not all Grand Cherokees would have made their way so easily through the rock quarry we found for this photo shoot, but we were quickly learning why Mike's had little trouble.
The parts list for under-the-hood modifications could take up an entire article in itself. This 5.2L V-8 engine is pushing 300 hp and over 325 lb-ft of torque. Making that happen are aluminum heads, a stroker crank, KRC Performance pistons, KRC H-Beam rods, an F&B billet throttle body, a plenum pan, and a Mopar ECU upgrade system. For exhaust, Mike chose a Car Sound catalytic converter and a custom MagnaFlow muffler setup installed by Welding Works. Keeping things cool are a high-flow aluminum FlowKooler water pump and a B&M SuperCooler transmission cooler. Odyssey PC 1200 batteries combined with Magnecor spark plug wires keep a lively spark throughout.
All that performance needs to make its way to the tires somehow, right? The stock transmission has been upgraded with an APS Performance submariner modification. This modification includes relocating the breather tubes and replacing the factory seals with watertight seals on all linkages - very handy for water crossings.
It took a lot of work to get enough clearance for the 35x12.50R16 Maxxis Creepy Crawler tires: Jeep Toys contoured and trimmed all four fender openings and wheelwells extensively to make sure they would fit. This also included relocating the vacuum canister into the engine bay. Four Moto Metal 951 black and chrome 16x9 wheels were chosen to add just a touch of bling to this project vehicle. Stopping power was increased using Power Slot rotors and Rock Krawler stainless steel brake lines.
The rear bumper and tire carrier are also TrailReady products, as are the rocker covers. Knowing the amount of scrapes and scratches that can accrue on the trail, Mike had both lower sides of his vehicle sprayed with TNT bedliner to provide plenty of protection and an aggressive off-road look.
Earlier we suggested that overpreparation can be a good thing. Open up the rear hatch of this Jeep and you will find an ARB air compressor, a CO2 tank, spare parts, plenty of tools, an ice chest, a tent, chairs, and first-aid supplies all safely tucked behind a Raingler safety net in case of a rollover.
Last, but definitely not least, we climbed into the cab and into a pair of APC racing seats and powered up the Kenwood Ez500 head unit that shoots tunes through Diamond Audio HEX speakers. Additionally, communication is provided by a Midland CB unit, and navigation duties are handled with a Garmin eTrex mobile handheld GPS unit.
Protection, safety, and peace...
Protection, safety, and peace of mind are all found on this Grand Cherokee's front end.
Mike is a true wheeler with synthetic oil running through his veins and a mind stuffed with its own set of gears and lockers, and only a mind like that could conceive of a Jeep like the one he's created. Keep an eye out for him on a trail or at an automotive extravaganza near you, and don't be surprised if his Jeep stops you dead in your tracks.