First Time Gladiator Owner - Want your Mod Recommendations (will list mine)

[UTRocky]

I got a Sarge Green, love this thing so far put about 4k miles out it. It was a Pre Certed Owned, so I have 100k or till Feb 2031 bumper to bumper warranty, right now 19k total miles on it! (Also came with the factory Mudder Tires, Halogen Lights)

First thing, I cant decide which accent color, should I do bronze or the cluster instrument panel "safety orange". Otherwise this is my list of what I want to do:

1.) LED HeadLights all around - So I was leaning on AlphaRex over Dynamic because I dont have AUX switches to utilize Dynamics or I would.
2.) How could I install factory AUX switches, I dont want a TAZER so would I have to do it at a dealer, or what are alterntive AUX Switches?
3.) Second set of wheels and Tires that are better for PAVEMENT/Daily driving, vrs offroad Mudders that I have currently (thinking Bronze wheels, but what wheels/tires)
4.)Would like to upgrade anything Engine/PowerTrain/Steering/Shock - throw me your recommendations.
5.)Upgrade bumpers from the plastic factory to something that is stronger. (kind of like ArTec - think I could get them to color it or cheaper if I do it myself?)
6.) Would like to keep stock radio but upgrade speakers and probably throw in an Amp - do have the sub box. - Recommendations
7.) Do want a roll bar - basically like in the retro poster picture I threw, could I get that colord as well?
8.) I do want some lights, are KC good or....etc. But again I dont have aux switches =(

Lastly I do want some decals/graphics I was leaning on either retro stripping like in the poster, or I want to do some Mountains/Forests. My plan is to keep this Jeep till it dies/rest of my life. As its now my "Truck/Jeep". =)


**Added* - I plan to use the Rig more as a Truck (Its not daily commuter I have a Charger for that). So basically camping - and Road trips is my goal with the rig. But I probably will go to a Jeep show or outing - I like to be Flamboyant. I also have that "DINK" $.

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[professorkx]

First, how do you plan to use your new rig, mall crawler, commuter, off road warrior?

 

[VA6489]

Question back to you, what is you goal for you build? What do you want to do with you rig? Show rig? overlander? Daily Driver?

My philosophy is simple, Drive you rig. what does it do well? What needs help? modify that which needs help. In this way you build a rig that is uniquely you and tailored to your needs. In the end you have a capability at the best cost.

If you are blindly asking a forum you will get a wide spectrum of suggestions and all of them will be a need to do.

Cheers

 

[UTRocky]

First, how do you plan to use your new rig, mall crawler, commuter, off road warrior?

Edited my OG post. Good point out.

 

[UTRocky]

Question back to you, what is you goal for you build? What do you want to do with you rig? Show rig? overlander? Daily Driver?

My philosophy is simple, Drive you rig. what does it do well? What needs help? modify that which needs help. In this way you build a rig that is uniquely you and tailored to your needs. In the end you have a capability at the best cost.

If you are blindly asking a forum you will get a wide spectrum of suggestions and all of them will be a need to do.

Cheers

I guess its more upgrade for longer lasting - will be a raodtrip/show rig and the occasional JEEP - I do go to UP MI where the roads are dirt/sand....etc. And camp.

 

[Northridge4x4]

First thing, I cant decide which accent color, should I do bronze or the cluster instrument panel "safety orange". Otherwise this is my list of what I want to do:

1.) LED HeadLights all around - So I was leaning on AlphaRex over Dynamic because I dont have AUX switches to utilize Dynamics or I would.
2.) How could I install factory AUX switches, I dont want a TAZER so would I have to do it at a dealer, or what are alterntive AUX Switches?
3.) Second set of wheels and Tires that are better for PAVEMENT/Daily driving, vrs offroad Mudders that I have currently (thinking Bronze wheels, but what wheels/tires)
4.)Would like to upgrade anything Engine/PowerTrain/Steering/Shock - throw me your recommendations.
5.)Upgrade bumpers from the plastic factory to something that is stronger. (kind of like ArTec - think I could get them to color it or cheaper if I do it myself?)
6.) Would like to keep stock radio but upgrade speakers and probably throw in an Amp - do have the sub box. - Recommendations
7.) Do want a roll bar - basically like in the retro poster picture I threw, could I get that colord as well?
8.) I do want some lights, are KC good or....etc. But again I dont have aux switches =(

Lastly I do want some decals/graphics I was leaning on either retro stripping like in the poster, or I want to do some Mountains/Forests. My plan is to keep this Jeep till it dies/rest of my life. As its now my "Truck/Jeep". =)

Congrats on your first JT! That Sarge color is awesome.

1. You don't need AUX switches for Diode Dynamic. It comes with a toggle you can add in the dash if you get the Elite Max headlights.
2. You can add AUX switches to your JT, just order up a kit and install it:
   https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/switch-panels/82215190af-mopar-aux-switch-bank-black
   As far as an alternative to AUX switches, it's hard to beat sPOD. They are very easy to wire in and make adding accessories very simple and clutter free:
   https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/...-bantamx-8-circuit-touchscreen-control-system
   
3. Have you thought about a Hybrid tire, something between a mud tire and a A/T?
   We've ran several sets of the Milestar Pat XTs and have been very happy with their all around performance:
   
4. Out of that list, start with the steering. First thing we'd do is a steering sector shaft brace:
   https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/...-track-bar-bracket-aluminum-steering-box-only
5. There are lots of great bumpers out there. Artec, Motobilt, LoD and Warn to name a few.
   Artec doesn't do custom colors. Contact local to you powder coaters or auto paint shops (depending on what you want).
6. Make it loud and clear!
7. That would be cool
8. KC makes some great lights, so does Diode Dynamics, Rigid, Baja Design and Nacho. BUT KC has the classic smiley face, so if retro is what you want, you gotta go KC: https://www.northridge4x4.com/brand/kc-hilites

For custom graphics, check with your local graphics shop they should be able to match those graphics pretty well. We've used Decal Mob up here in Silverdale WA. We send Chappie the design and he prints it out and will even install it for us if we are tight for time.

 

[VA6489]

When adding things like bumpers and skids, etc, be mindful of weight. Adding a 100# bumper adds over 100# of dynamic weight to the front or rear suspension. Also the more weight you put on the harder the power train works to maintain speed on the highway.

Aluminum is a good choice to keep weight in check and it can be powder coated in any color you want. AT tires are great for mileage and wear. many work well in off road conditions. if you are going to the outback solo, a winch at some point would be a good investment. Doesn't take much to get stuck and be walking a long way for help.

 

[UTRocky]

When adding things like bumpers and skids, etc, be mindful of weight. Adding a 100# bumper adds over 100# of dynamic weight to the front or rear suspension. Also the more weight you put on the harder the power train works to maintain speed on the highway.

Aluminum is a good choice to keep weight in check and it can be powder coated in any color you want. AT tires are great for mileage and wear. many work well in off road conditions. if you are going to the outback solo, a winch at some point would be a good investment. Doesn't take much to get stuck and be walking a long way for help.

So if Im not going to be doing "ROUGH" off roading, my Plastics should be fine? Just get a winch? Or would the Artec's bumpers for front and back add both styling, and function and not put more strain on the powertrain?

 

[UTRocky]

Congrats on your first JT! That Sarge color is awesome.

1. You don't need AUX switches for Diode Dynamic. It comes with a toggle you can add in the dash if you get the Elite Max headlights.
2. You can add AUX switches to your JT, just order up a kit and install it:
   https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/switch-panels/82215190af-mopar-aux-switch-bank-black
   As far as an alternative to AUX switches, it's hard to beat sPOD. They are very easy to wire in and make adding accessories very simple and clutter free:
   https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/...-bantamx-8-circuit-touchscreen-control-system
   
3. Have you thought about a Hybrid tire, something between a mud tire and a A/T?
   We've ran several sets of the Milestar Pat XTs and have been very happy with their all around performance:
   
4. Out of that list, start with the steering. First thing we'd do is a steering sector shaft brace:
   https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/...-track-bar-bracket-aluminum-steering-box-only
5. There are lots of great bumpers out there. Artec, Motobilt, LoD and Warn to name a few.
   Artec doesn't do custom colors. Contact local to you powder coaters or auto paint shops (depending on what you want).
6. Make it loud and clear!
7. That would be cool
8. KC makes some great lights, so does Diode Dynamics, Rigid, Baja Design and Nacho. BUT KC has the classic smiley face, so if retro is what you want, you gotta go KC: https://www.northridge4x4.com/brand/kc-hilites

For custom graphics, check with your local graphics shop they should be able to match those graphics pretty well. We've used Decal Mob up here in Silverdale WA. We send Chappie the design and he prints it out and will even install it for us if we are tight for time.

ty for all of this! - I guess I misunderstood the videos I watched then (For Dynamic), but I want a more OEM type look of Aux switches. I dont care for another screen and I like buttons. I mean if there could be "switch like physical butons". Im down for that. I thought I saw one but it was Bluetooth, and dont know I didnt trust it I wanted hardwire and something more OEM looking. I like the switches you linked in terms of what you are doing in Engine Bay, but I dont like the control screen. I dont want another screen just simple OEM like looking switches/buttons.


I did think about Hybrid Tire, but Im also down to just have another set of wheels, idk Iook further into it, I got another month or two before I changing tires still ice and snow in MI ahah.

Good tips about local paint shops I didnt think about that. -- Chappie can I send a design on AutoCAD?

 

[Northridge4x4]

ty for all of this! - I guess I misunderstood the videos I watched then (For Dynamic), but I want a more OEM type look of Aux switches. I dont care for another screen and I like buttons. I mean if there could be "switch like physical butons". Im down for that. I thought I saw one but it was Bluetooth, and dont know I didnt trust it I wanted hardwire and something more OEM looking. I like the switches you linked in terms of what you are doing in Engine Bay, but I dont like the control screen. I dont want another screen just simple OEM like looking switches/buttons.


I did think about Hybrid Tire, but Im also down to just have another set of wheels, idk Iook further into it, I got another month or two before I changing tires still ice and snow in MI ahah.

Good tips about local paint shops I didnt think about that. -- Chappie can I send a design on AutoCAD?

sPOD also has a button type control pad, still not 100% OE looking though:
https://www.northridge4x4.com/part/switch-panels/870025-spod-bantamx-hd-8-circuit-control-system

I'll check with Chappie to see what his backlog is.

 

[UTRocky]

Thanks ya no immediate Rush, not worried about graphics till for sure next summer. but may get to them this summer. More focused this year on the Aux Switches, LED Lights, Roll Bar and Speakers. (n tires/wheels)

That's cool with the sPOD - Im trying to find buttons like this. I wonder if I can custom order from someone - also I forgot what about interior lighting for jeep. Kind of like the Dodge RaceTrack interior light tubes?

 

[Dweisman429]

Here's my suggestions for you...

1) lighting-you could probably search for some takeoff oem led stuff. Either source from the parts department or salvage yard or possibly find on for sale forum here. If you go this route, the computer will need to be changed to accept the different hardware. You can have that done at the dealer if you didn't want to use a tazer or jscan.

Also could do aftermarket stuff. I've not looked for any of that...mine had the led factory. At least with this way you likely won't require the flash

2) aux switches - I put the factory switch kit in my JT. It's nice...it fits great and matches, but it was expensive and you will need to have the computer flashed to turn them on.

Other switch sets would include Voswitch and Lasfit...several options out there or could go custom possibly.

3)tires-easy to find a set of take off stockers with street tread on marketplace. Those BFGs you have there are good tires though. They just wear faster.

4)upgrades- depends on how far you are wanting to go and what your desired end use will be. Lift, lockers, axles, real rollcage...engine swap. The list goes on as long as your credit card will support it.

5)bumpers-lots of options out there. Pick what style suits you. As mentioned before, almost anything can be powdercoated to whatever color you like.

There really isn't anything necessarily wrong with the plastic stock bumper. You can still add a winch even with that bumper.

6)radio-i cant help you much. Im pretty happy with my factory stuff, but im not really into that. I did replace the dash speakers but thats probably as far as I will go. Take a look over at the audio section here and see some of the builds. There are plenty of suggestions and ideas there.


7)roll bar - thats not a roll bar...I'd go with light bar or bed bar or show bar...but not really going to do much in the event of an actual rollover. That said, I do like the lines of this one from soflo customs

Plenty of other bed mounted light bars available...ebay or amazon hasall that stuff

And all of it can be painted or powdercoated to suit you.

8)lights-as mentioned before...KC is good, baja designs, rigid...on and on.

The big question is what do you want them to do? Where do you plan to mount them?

If you plan to put them on a bumper or bed bar, make sure there is a place to mount them BEFORE you get it painted

9)graphics-sky is the limit with vinyl anymore. You can get the entire thing wrapped to change color...or a custom wrap made up too. That's how nascar is done...not paint. If you are looking more for just stripes then check out www undergroundgraphics.com. I have not bought from them but a buddy did and was very happy with them. Or look up a local sign shop that does vinyl. Most are able to design and cut whatever you want.

Good luck with making your JT yours

 

[Dweisman429]

https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/...s-trigger-controller-has-you-covered-🔥.91946/

Funny enough this post just popped up for auxiliary switches...you may be interested in them

 

[UTRocky]

Thanks, ya I saw the Trigger switches, I would be more inclined if they were hardwired. I think Im going to go OEM switches, but we see. Another random question is there like a bimini soft top for the bed, or cargo net I guess and you hook it to the loops or a cargo rack? I ask this as if I get a roll/light bar that means I can get a tonneau cover anymore right?

 

[WILDHOBO]

I got a Sarge Green, love this thing so far put about 4k miles out it. It was a Pre Certed Owned, so I have 100k or till Feb 2031 bumper to bumper warranty, right now 19k total miles on it! (Also came with the factory Mudder Tires, Halogen Lights)

First thing, I cant decide which accent color, should I do bronze or the cluster instrument panel "safety orange". Otherwise this is my list of what I want to do:

1.) LED HeadLights all around - So I was leaning on AlphaRex over Dynamic because I dont have AUX switches to utilize Dynamics or I would.
2.) How could I install factory AUX switches, I dont want a TAZER so would I have to do it at a dealer, or what are alterntive AUX Switches?
3.) Second set of wheels and Tires that are better for PAVEMENT/Daily driving, vrs offroad Mudders that I have currently (thinking Bronze wheels, but what wheels/tires)
4.)Would like to upgrade anything Engine/PowerTrain/Steering/Shock - throw me your recommendations.
5.)Upgrade bumpers from the plastic factory to something that is stronger. (kind of like ArTec - think I could get them to color it or cheaper if I do it myself?)
6.) Would like to keep stock radio but upgrade speakers and probably throw in an Amp - do have the sub box. - Recommendations
7.) Do want a roll bar - basically like in the retro poster picture I threw, could I get that colord as well?
8.) I do want some lights, are KC good or....etc. But again I dont have aux switches =(

Lastly I do want some decals/graphics I was leaning on either retro stripping like in the poster, or I want to do some Mountains/Forests. My plan is to keep this Jeep till it dies/rest of my life. As its now my "Truck/Jeep". =)


**Added* - I plan to use the Rig more as a Truck (Its not daily commuter I have a Charger for that). So basically camping - and Road trips is my goal with the rig. But I probably will go to a Jeep show or outing - I like to be Flamboyant. I also have that "DINK" $.

Congrats on the new ride. I can, and will happily help with 6 and 8, including switches. Switches are a quick easy recommendation. I’d go Voswitch all day long. You won’t look back. I have the JL400 grab handle setup, but I was adding to my existing 4 auxiliary switches, so you might consider the 800 with more switches. As for audio, I’ve been down that road and could not be happier with my results. Send me a pm and I’ll share my cell number. We can talk it out verbally to see what your goals are, but I didn’t overspend, it looks factory, doesn’t use up lots of storage space, and sounds amazing. -Dan.

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