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2017 Jeep JK | Synergy Stage 3 with Dynatrac ProRock Axles

No doubt, the Wrangler JK is one of the most easily modifiable platforms yet released the general public. It has revolutionized the way we think about modifying Jeeps, elevated the standard of comfort and convenience we can expect in a trail rig, and combined modern drivetrain reliability with traditional solid axle prowess off road. A whole bumper crop of accessories exploded around it, and a decade after it was introduced, it’s never been easier to customize one exactly to your individual taste and needs.

Whether there are plans to lift your Jeep, or keep it stock, many owners still like to add accessories. The factory headlights are woefully inadequate. While the aftermarket does offer some upgrades for the factory headlights and fog lights, many of us need more light in more places. A-pillar mounted or ‘Ditch lights’ are very helpful for avoiding ditches hiding in your peripheral vision in the dark, and seeing around tight corners. Spot lights on the front will pierce the darkness on long dark roads, rock lights will help you immensely on the inevitable night-time expeditions, and ‘scene’ lighting is helpful for anyone looking to brighten their campsite. KC Flex LED lights were chosen, to mate with their windshield brackets to help lighten the mood for this build. 2 other super important upgrades were added to this build. Since we all know tire air pressure is one of the single most important variable in how well a vehicle performs off road, we are big advocates of on board air sources. An ARB CKMA12 compressor was mounted under-hood on the Synergy 4034 bracket, with ARB’s Pump Up Kit adding the necessary hose and fittings to use the compressor for tire re-inflation. When the situation eventually overwhelms your aired down tires, lockers and upgraded axles and suspension there is simply no replacement for a winch. Warn’s VR series offers a great combination of power and value, from one of the most trusted names in off roading. Their VR10000-S is more than capable of recovering this JK whenever the driver runs out of talent or equipment, while leaving some room in the budget for gas money and a Factor55 Flat Link.

If, like our customer, you choose to check off a lot of upgrade boxes at once, there is a good chance you’ll be adding aftermarket lockers to a non-Rubicon model, or upgrading to heavier duty lockers from Eaton or ARB that are independently selectable, un-like the Rubicon units. To control all of these accessories, we’re definitely going to need a device capable of cleanly and efficiently route power, through fused relays, to both an in-cab controller, and to the accessories we’re attempting to control. Enter sPod! They are the industry original, creator of the pre-packaged accessory power distribution and switching system. Using widely accepted standard parts (like bladed fuses, ‘Bosch’ relays, and ‘Carling’ rocker switches), mated with their advanced circuitry, the customer receives a cleanly packaged unit capable of handling a myriad of duties. With pre-made mounting brackets and wiring harnesses, they take most of the guesswork out of electrical distribution; simply install the sPod per their directions, and you can begin routing your accessories to it!

 

Ironically, this whole journey started with yet another JK axle swap. It only took a couple trips wheeling with a low-end lift and 37’s for our customer to realize that an axle and suspension upgrade were going to be vital additions. For this build, our customer chose Dynatrac’s Serious Performance 44/60 axle pack, fitted with Eaton E-lockers and 5.13 gears. Dynatrac retains the 5 x 5” JK factory wheel bolt pattern, which was a deciding factor as this customer had already purchased a set of bead locks. The ProRock 44 front axle features all the typical upgrades, and includes Dynatrac’s ProSteer rebuildable ball joints. A ProGrip brake upgrade was also installed at this time, which uses larger rotors and caliper brackets to increase braking performance without requiring a master cylinder or caliper swap.

For the suspension setup, a 3” lift Synergy Stage 3 kit with Fox 2.0 Performance CD Adjuster shocks is our preferred choice for a JK on 37’s. A Currie Anti-Rock sway bar replaced the factory piece, and allows much better articulation while still keeping road manners in check. The lighter front sway bar helps match articulation with the rear and introduces a little more oversteer behavior on the street, as opposed to the factory spec’d understeer tendency. With all these upgrades thrown down, this Jeep is ready for smashing zombies and stomping trail. Call us today so we can help you with your own transformation!

(805) 783-2060

870 Industrial Way
San Luis Obispo, California 93401