Like @Rusty PW, I’ve had a 36k on stock rear driveshaft, with a Teraflex spacer, and wheeled heavily on 37’s with no problems. The axle was replaced only after ripping the rubber/plastic off the stock unit.
I just accomplished a cross country trip, totaling ~5700 miles, on 40’s and 4.56 gears. No trailer, but loaded down with Alu-Cab canopy, rooftop tent w/awning and Decked system. It performed well and I averaged 18.2 mpg going from sea level up to a hair over 13k ft.
The Gladiator moves out...
Finally have some time to catch up on my reporting of our adventure.
The Rubicon Trail: The scenery changing from the start, through the Gate Keeper and all the way to Buck Island Lake blew me away! The trails were challenging and there was a certain sense of peace being out there, both in...
I run Clayton’s 3.5” front and heavy duty rears to handle the extra weight of my overlanding setup, Alu-Cab canopy, rooftop tent with canopy, and Decked system. Just completed the Rubicon last month and quite frankly, the Clayton’s did their job!
The remainder of the group made it to Ice House late this afternoon. What a beautiful drive coming up into Lake Tahoe!
Tomorrow we kick off at 0800. More pics to come Because we’re exhausted after the 2800+ mile drive.
.
Part of the group departed Rawlings WY, after visiting @VA6489 ’s family.
We headed out on I80 through Utah and ended up near a beautiful campground near Wells, NV. Highly recommended (will post campgrounds name and location soon)!
Good looking out and helping someone out in need! It’s what makes this community so great.
Following! A group of us, along with @taintedsaint, will be doing a similar trip from Northern VA out to the Rubicon in early August.
I ran 4.10s (axles from a gas JTR) on my previous JTRD on MT 37s and towed a Patriot X3 camper all over. Mileage improved to low 20s towing and I had no problems maintaining speed. Unladen, I averaged 22-23.t mpg per tank, depending on speed.
Your 38s will likely measure out closer to...
I love Clayton’s diesel springs. While I haven’t experienced any lean, I would highly recommend switching to Clayton’s HD rear springs with the cap, rack, and all the stuff you’re loading in the bed. Will definitely get rid of that rake.