2021 Mojave Overland Build…Almost there!

[drew0622]

Loving this build. Have you done anything with the front sway bar (disconnect)? Thanks.

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[Backcountry ADV]

Loving this build. Have you done anything with the front sway bar (disconnect)? Thanks.

Not yet but looking at a few options for when I pull the axles for the Artec Truss Kits & new RCV 300M front cv’s. I’ll also be adding a 2.5 ton steering kit or upgrade since it’ll be all apart. Stay tuned! Always something to do!

 

[drew0622]

Not yet but looking at a few options for when I pull the axles for the Artec Truss Kits & new RCV 300M front cv’s. I’ll also be adding a 2.5 ton steering kit or upgrade since it’ll be all apart. Stay tuned! Always something to do!

I just did the RPM 2.5 steering kit and very pleased with it. We added a front trail camera as well.

 

[Mojaveon40s]

Everything went on as expected. I went with the top mount, no drill, drank link and track bar relocation bracket and that improved the geometry of everything and eliminated the bump steer I was getting beforehand.

I still haven’t upgraded my gears. I’ve been a little too busy to get around to it. It’s still the plan though. Need to make some time and get it done.

I do think I’m about to add the smart cap to the back though.

 

[Backcountry ADV]

I just did the RPM 2.5 steering kit and very pleased with it. We added a front trail camera as well.

I've heard good things about that set up. I'm researching it and a few others. Fortunately, i haven't felt like it's something I absolutely need, but am looking forward to it. I'm only assuming it's one of those things that once you have it you realize why

 

[Bandit’s Lair]

Correct I added/upgraded to the Falcon 3.3 Fast Adjusts. On the suspension I have the Clayton Offroad 3.5" Overland Plus kit (Short Travel Version) and it's a tight fit on the 40's but clears. They (Clayton) have tested this kit with 40's on a few Gladiators already. In conversations with Lucas and they Team there at Clayton, they have noted they are currently testing 4.5" springs for this kit due to release mid year 2026. I'll be the first on the list unless I do the custom Deaver Springs in the meantime. I do want to note that Clayton has had hands down the absolute best customer service, before, during, and post sale for their kit and products. They are incredible.

Let me know if you have any other questions. (on a side note, check out the Artec Inner fenders as they have kits specifically desiged for the stock shocks or Falcon's with the cutout. I had mine Line-X coated in black and they look killer!)

Deaver Springs? I couldn’t find anything for the Gladiators. Tell me more!!

 

[drew0622]

I've heard good things about that set up. I'm researching it and a few others. Fortunately, i haven't felt like it's something I absolutely need, but am looking forward to it. I'm only assuming it's one of those things that once you have it you realize why

RPM had an after Christmas sale....20% off or something like that...went ahead a grabbed. Definitely fills more planted and makes the 37s easier to turn....real test is when I can finally get it offroad.

 

[Backcountry ADV]

Deaver Springs? I couldn’t find anything for the Gladiators. Tell me more!!

I called Deaver and they referred me out to the vendor they use to supply orders for the Gladiators Directly. Nice guys, I just need to get by a weight station and send some info to them for quotes.

Clayton Offroad on the other hand, is in testing phase with 4.5" Springs for their Overland Plus kits. I've currently been running their 3.5" kit and am looking to upgrade to their 4.5" springs when realease this spring/summer. If I get time I may look into the Deaver - 3rd party - options though as I would like to go slightly stiffer in the rear with all the gear.

However, my current Clayton Offroad 3.5" Springs have been perfect. No sag, compliant but decent off-road handling and perfectly fine on the tarmac. I just want a little bit more clearance for the new 40's. They were a huge step up from 37's and look incredible. I've been out a few times and although they clear, I'd like a bit more fender clearance for more extreme terrain, articulation, and of course the overall look/presence. I still find myself stopping to look back after parking this rig with the 40's. It's insane the difference!

 

[JTdiRtyD]

I really dig how you did the awning mount. I might have to look into something similar. My tent has channels in the shell, so I had some hinge brackets made that mount to the shell, but I lose a little bit of awning height when the tent is open.

https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/...ports-and-bs-thread.89017/page-5#post-1611899

 

[Backcountry ADV]

I really dig how you did the awning mount. I might have to look into something similar. My tent has channels in the shell, so I had some hinge brackets made that mount to the shell, but I lose a little bit of awning height when the tent is open.

https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/...ports-and-bs-thread.89017/page-5#post-1611899

Dude,
you're pretty clever with that mount! I had a similar dilema in that none of the manufacturers that make these style tents have solved the problem for mounting their awnings either. I had to start from scratch and design/build this set up with a local shop that does all my builds. Here's a couple before and after pics of the set up.

Happy to assist if you need anything.

P.S. sicko pics of the canyons on your post. Do you have a channel or anything? I'm under BackCountry ADV on IG and BackCountry Expeditions and Overlanding on YouTube/FB. Still building the website but at least I'm capturing content for the memories to share.

 

[JTdiRtyD]

P.S. sicko pics of the canyons on your post. Do you have a channel or anything? I'm under BackCountry ADV on IG and BackCountry Expeditions and Overlanding on YouTube/FB. Still building the website but at least I'm capturing content for the memories to share.

A buddy and I started a podcast back in June. Links are in my signature. We want to start a youtube channel, nothing big, just videos from our trips really, but we haven't really focused on that yet.

I'll be giving you a follow on IG and YT!

 

[Bandit’s Lair]

The 40s do look good on there. I think I’ll end up on 38” and stop there. Just have to be realistic with myself. I’d love to be able to wheel enough to justify them but right now I can’t. Maybe when I offload some kids onto society.

 

[Backcountry ADV]

A buddy and I started a podcast back in June. Links are in my signature. We want to start a youtube channel, nothing big, just videos from our trips really, but we haven't really focused on that yet.

I'll be giving you a follow on IG and YT!

That's awesome and congrats! Hardest thing is starting right?! I'll check out the podcast and lookout for the channel. Love the logo too. I designed something similar for the brands I'm launching. Love the space and the people have been incredible at all the events, expos, and trails. Good luck with your build too. Thank you for your service as well. Cheers!

You might want to check out BillyBars. They have the ability to do these custom logo tailgate covers. I sent them artwork and picked a topo design. Came out awesome and is so much better than the factory Line-X Coating, especially on the knees when climbing around the bed. It's made from Marine Grade Foam so it's non-slip and has a bit of cushion to it. Cool but functional upgrade!

 

[Backcountry ADV]

The 40s do look good on there. I think I’ll end up on 38” and stop there. Just have to be realistic with myself. I’d love to be able to wheel enough to justify them but right now I can’t. Maybe when I offload some kids onto society.

I was in the same boat when I started. I opted for the most logical build spec and sourced 37's. When I was looking at replacing the tires, mainly from age not tread, I sold the 37's and just had to do 40's ! I couldn't be happier with the overall outcome. The added ground clearance and circumference make a huge difference in our local terrain. Now I just need more time to get out and explore. I'm sure 38's would be awesome as well pending on your lift/setup. Good luck with the build!

 

[drew0622]

Dude,
you're pretty clever with that mount! I had a similar dilema in that none of the manufacturers that make these style tents have solved the problem for mounting their awnings either. I had to start from scratch and design/build this set up with a local shop that does all my builds. Here's a couple before and after pics of the set up.

Happy to assist if you need anything.

P.S. sicko pics of the canyons on your post. Do you have a channel or anything? I'm under BackCountry ADV on IG and BackCountry Expeditions and Overlanding on YouTube/FB. Still building the website but at least I'm capturing content for the memories to share.

Finally pulled the trigger....Clayton 3.5 prem kit, falcon 3.3.......not to be a copy a cat, but dig your setup. I'll post pics, once installed. Are those rock slider steps? Can you post a pic with them down? My wife is 4' nothing, lol, and she will need those. thanks again.

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