Jeep 4x4 Performance Handbook

The world of high-performance Jeeping can be a challenge. With the used Jeep market growing, new models appearing, and an aftermarket constantly offering new and better bolt-on parts and accessories, there have never been so many options for the off-road Jeep lover. Now in a new second edition, Jeep 4x4 Performance Handbook debunks the myths and eliminates the mystery of getting the most out of your Jeep through the thorough research and expertise of author and Jeep expert Jim Allen. He explains the bolt-on parts, swaps, and modifications that will give the most bang for the buck, whether you hit the trail in a CJ or a Wrangler (TJ and YJ), a Cherokee, or a Liberty, or one of the many classic and vintage Jeeps available. From bumper to bumper, this book covers it all, improving street performance and off-road toughness, towing ability and suspension, brakes and electrical systems, and the all-important safety equipment and modifications. Jeep 4x4 Performance Handbook will get you on the road and off without breaking the bank of wasting time in the garage.

In this fully updated third edition of Jeep 4x4 Performance Handbook, Jeep experts Jim Allen and James Weber give you all the information and expertise you need to build and drive your ultimate Jeep without breaking the bank.

The definitive, fully illustrated celebration of an auto manufacturer that paved its own way by going off-road is now updated to celebrate Jeep’s 80th anniversary. Few American vehicles, or vehicles made anywhere else in the world for that matter, are as universally iconic as the Jeep. From olive drab WWII military relics to the beloved Wrangler with its rear-mounted spare tire, open-air design, and telltale roll cage, the Jeep is a true classic. In Jeep: Eight Decades from Willys to Wrangler, automotive writer Patrick R. Foster chronicles Jeep vehicle design and production from the beginning of World War II to present. Beginning with the Jeep as a crucial component of the American war fleet, Foster expertly recounts the corporate shifts, financial struggles and successes, close calls, and, above all, the enduring machines that have carried Jeep from the early 1940s to its triumphant role as a modern-day embodiment of American perseverance. More than 200 color and black-and-white historical photos and period advertisements complement his expertly written narrative of Jeep's entire history, now updated to include five years of new model editions and prototypes, its return to the pickup market, and recent stunning marketplace successes. The resulting book reminds us that sometimes the road less traveled was just waiting for the right truck.

Adapted from a spartan military design, Jeep is today an integral part of the DaimlerChrysler family and a major player in the SUV market. This color history profiles Jeep's remarkable evolution, from the delivery of the first Willys Overland model to Allied military services in 1941, through its years as the bedrock of American Motors, and on to its acquisition by Chrysler. Striking color photography and evocative archival images of classic Jeeps from throughout the years depict such popular and collectible models as CJs, pickups, Jeepsters, Forward Control trucks, military Jeeps, Wagoneers, Cherokees, and Wranglers.

Since its release in 2007, the JK has become wildly popular and nearly 1 million units have been sold in North America. With a wider track and longer wheelbase, the Wrangler JK is roomier, more comfortable, and delivers better on-road performance than its predecessor. However, it needs serious chassis, suspension, and drivetrain upgrades to tackle demanding off-road terrain and rock crawling. A full complement of heavy-duty suspension, chassis, steering, drivetrain, and high-performance engine parts has been developed for this platform. Co-authors Don Alexander and Quinn Thomas offer comprehensive guidance for making key modifications and selecting the best parts to transform your JK into a superior off-road performer. Lift kits from 1.75 to 5 inches are available, so you can fit off-road wheels and tires for exceptional traction. Suspension springs, specially calibrated coil-over shocks, and sway bars must work in concert to provide the correct suspension articulation and ride quality to scale obstacles and negotiate terrain. To increase durability and essential reliability, pitman arms, drop links, driveline parts, steering boxes, and skid plates are examined. Because the drivetrain must be ready for off-road service, the authors cover the most rugged and reliable axle assemblies available. Exhaust, intake, and electronic engine mapping upgrades make the Jeep 3.6- and 3.8-liter V-6 engines much more potent. If you believe that paved roads are simply access-ways to the open range, you and your JK need this book. It contains the vital information to convert any mild-mannered street vehicle into an all-conquering off-road rig. Whether it’s lift kits, wheels, tires, drivetrain, or suspension and engine parts, this volume provides detailed information, insightful guidance, and installation instructions, so you build an off-road JK to handle the toughest terrain.

Jeepers rejoice! Bring new life to your classic Jeep YJ with this new guide to off-road performance. More than 685,000 YJs were built from 1986 to 1995. They featured heavier wider leaf springs, trackbars, and sway bars for improved handling. A massive range of parts are offered for these vehicles, which include lift kits, wheels up to 37 inches, larger brake rotors, high-performance aluminum remote reservoir shocks, stronger driveshafts and U-joints, and Dana 60 conversions. In Jeep Wrangler YJ 1987-1995: Advance Performance Modifications, veteran author Don Alexander covers the 4.0 engine, transmissions (automatic and manual), transfer cases, axles, differentials, and driveshafts, steering boxes, brake upgrades, shocks, springs and lift kits, chassis strengthening, and interior upgrades. Also, following recent market trends, this book includes a complete Cummins turbo diesel swap into the YJ platform. Whether you want to do some simple upgrades, such as a lift and tire combination, or want to go all out with a rock crawler-style suspension and an engine swap, this book will guide you through the process.

Learn your modification options for the most modern and exciting Jeeps! Going back to World War II, Jeeps have had a special place in America’s heart. The utility vehicle that helped win the war transitioned into the civilian Jeep, or CJ, and the Jeep brand has had several owners over the years. While still remaining wildly popular, it has evolved. The Wrangler version of the Jeep was transformed with the release of the JK for the 2007 model year. With a more practical 4-door version, this Wrangler became a popular vehicle for year-round use, which appealed to off-roaders as well as soccer moms. For the 2017 model year, Jeep seriously upgraded the Wrangler, which is now dubbed the JL, and added an exciting new model, the Gladiator, or JT, which is essentially a pickup version of the Wrangler. In Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT: Performance Modifications, Jeep experts Don Alexander and Quinn Thomas introduce you to these new models and walk you through the capabilities and options for all of the trim levels. Then, they examine how to make these things better, system by system. Suspension, steering, and brakes are covered, as they are the heart of any off-road rig. Also examined are modification options for axles, driveshafts, and differentials as well as bumpers, armor, and protection. Of course, off-roaders need a quality winch, recovery gear, and upgraded electrics, so options are explored here as well. Wheels and tires are also very important for those leaving paved roads, and upgrade options for all of the trim levels and lift levels are covered thoroughly. Whether you want to build a JL or JT to be a serious rock crawler or simply look like you are going off-road, all of your options are thoroughly explained in this book. Add a copy to your Jeep reference library.