AEV

[Nate]

Looks like AEV released the 2" spacer lift today....

https://www.aev-conversions.com/product/2-spacer-lift-gladiator/

Maybe things will start trickling out faster.

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[sass JT]

Eh...

 

[Billet Wilson]

Really disappointed in this. AEV stated in a video that they were shocked with multiple design choices made by the Jeep engineers. They said the stock suspension is very lacking, too soft, and caused thumping in the cabin that should not be happening. They then turnaround and release this with nothing but talking points on why they kept the stock springs, shocks, and control arms smh. Half baked effort at best.

 

[Gren71]

I have an AEV lift on my JKU and loved it. Id be interested in this if they didnt include their calibration tool. Maybe theyll offer a lift only option.

 

[Nate]

Really disappointed in this. AEV stated in a video that they were shocked with multiple design choices made by the Jeep engineers. They said the stock suspension is very lacking, too soft, and caused thumping in the cabin that should not be happening. They then turnaround and release this with nothing but talking points on why they kept the stock springs, shocks, and control arms smh. Half baked effort at best.

I too am a bit shocked they went this route. Then again historically the launch of their lift kits has always been marked with the release of a budget boost first. If I were to read between the lines a bit I think they are throwing an option out in hopes to detract from the wait while they get production rolling. I think they are starting to get the idea people are tired of waiting and they need to shit or get off the pot. Just hope whatever main dish is served it lives up to the standard they had in the JK.

 

[WhatExit?]

Really disappointed in this. AEV stated in a video that they were shocked with multiple design choices made by the Jeep engineers. They said the stock suspension is very lacking, too soft, and caused thumping in the cabin that should not be happening. They then turnaround and release this with nothing but talking points on why they kept the stock springs, shocks, and control arms smh. Half baked effort at best.

I understand AEV has a long and close relationship with FCA. That may have some bearing on their approach to Jeeps

 

[Billet Wilson]

I understand AEV has a long and close relationship with FCA. That may have some bearing on their approach to Jeeps

I always thought this too. Dave corrected this misconception and said they don't have a close relationship with FCA like everyone seems to think. There is a past Chrysler engineer that works for him but that was many years ago.

 

[Billet Wilson]

Based on this walk around I'd say this is a stop gap until they release a complete suspension setup.

 

[Doolin64]

With the Procal this seems like a great price/deal to me.

 

[Mac]

With the Procal this seems like a great price/deal to me.

Agreed, looks like a good option for those interested in a spacer lift, seems very complete.

 

[Hootbro]

I always thought this too. Dave corrected this misconception and said they don't have a close relationship with FCA like everyone seems to think. There is a past Chrysler engineer that works for him but that was many years ago.

Interesting, pre Gladiator and JL when Dave/AEV were selling their Brute truck JK conversions for a premium, they sure made it look like they were chummy with FCA and had a close relationship. When the Gladiator debuted, he did not hold back how he felt FCA slighted him on the Gladiator and basically inferred FCA did not give him credit or acknowledge their design inspirations from the Brute.

At the Gladiator launch and the various press junkets immediately afterwards that showed other fab companies concept design vehicles, AEV was lacking in attendance for specific Gladiator mods other than what AEV JL stuff they could bolt on. Seemed pretty evident AEV had some butt hurt but like any company of their stature, they eventually came around that they could not ignore Gladiator market but are begrudgingly slow about coming out with Gladiator specific items.

 

[Nate]

FCA in some ways owes gratitude to Dave in growing the Jeep brand. While there we some companies selling parts Dave had a vision to make turn key vehicles that customers could walk in, drop bank and drive out. If you look at Mopar this is exactly what they did with the JL launch after witnessing the success in the aftermarket.

One a side note. The LJ is/was rumored to be a bet between Dave and the then Jeep management that the market would be receptive to a longer wheelbase Wrangler product. To date it’s one of the rarest and most coveted for collectors because of limited production. The original “Unlimited” which paved the way to increased sales to soccer moms.

Personally I’d be pissed with FCA if I started a market for a truck based on the Brute. At least give nod to AEV for the idea even though FCA screwed up not putting at least a 5.7 HEMI.

 

[jurfie]

Good stop gap for those who don't want to completely upgrade their suspension. I'd consider this for a couple-few years until after the wallet recovers from the initial JT purchase, then upgrade to a full system down the road (and after I've stopped caring about trail damage) for all the flexy goodness that comes with it.

I'd trust an AEV spacer lift over some of the others out there.

 

[Mac]

Looks very well engineered, interesting that is has a carrier bearing spacer, have not seen that on other lifts.

 

[txjeepers]

Looks very well engineered, interesting that is has a carrier bearing spacer, have not seen that on other lifts.

EVO has them and already has a full line of suspension options. I've run both EVO and AEV products over the years. Both are top shelf. EVO rides great on the street and has fantastic flex offroad. Why wait on vendors focused on other vehicles?
http://evomfg.com/EVO-MFG-Products/Jeep-Gladiator-JT/Suspension Systems

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