The Jacuzzi-size box of parts was well-packed and arrived unscathed. We were pretty impressed that the new rear half of our Project TJ could fit in such a small container.
AEV indicates that the average build time for the entire Brute conversion is less than 60 hours. We'll attempt to linger near this average as we carry out the conversion on our Project TJ in time for the Moab Easter Jeep Safari. With just two weeks to tackle the job, we sought assistance from Mel Wade of Off Road Evolution in Fullerton, California. Along with his qualified crew, Mel dove into the build headfirst, accomplishing the very important conversion-preparation tasks that are paramount to achieving the finest finished product. Check out the photos and captions for further details on 4 WHEEL DRIVE & SPORT UTILITY's AEV Brute Conversion Project, and tune in next month as we chop our TJ Wrangler in half and begin the conversion process.
The Brute kit is well-thought-out and includes all of the items necessary for conversion. Shown here are the frame-extension brackets, CNC-bent fuel and brake lines, new rear body/bed mounts, and cab close-out assembly. | 
For us, the most impressive aspect of the redesign was the truck-bed assembly. Measuring 72x59x17 inches, the Brute bed assembly offers a 14-gauge stamped steel construction and includes a durable tailgate, new tailgate latches, new tailgate restraint cables, and an LED-lighted license-plate mount. There are also provisions to mount much of the factory equipment, such as taillamps and the fuel filler. The AEV bed assembly could also easily be used to build a custom Jeep trailer. | 
The AEV hardtop is shipped complete, with the exception of a few factory components, including a dome light, a third brake light, and windshield latches. All of these parts can either be transferred from the TJ being converted or sourced locally from a Jeep dealership or salvage yard. The AEV half-cab top is manufactured from injection-molded composite material and features dual overhead skylights and a large rear window. The top will also require paint. |
The rear frame extension offers an integral winch mount and also serves as a stout rear bumper. Along with the bed assembly, this will create a 15-inch overhang. | 
Before beginning the Brute conversion, it was necessary to take a number of measurements to ensure that our cuts and welds would be accurate, as well as to make sure the doors and windshield were aligned with the body. If anything isn't flush or aligned properly, we'll correct it before continuing. | 
With the measurements meeting our needs, we went on to remove the interior, including the seats, seatbelts, console, and carpet. The stock wiring harness was also removed from the body side and set on the front floor. |
The fuel tank was removed and set aside. The Brute kit is designed to accept the stock fuel tank. |  | 
We removed the FXD rocker guards in order to access the area of body to be cut. |