The Insane Asylum DCLB build and XJ insanity

Doing a little research I was able to utilize my 17" TRD Sport wheels (17x7.5+30) coupled w/ 1" spacers to achieve around a +4 offset. This resulted in an additional 11/16" clearance between sidewall and suspension when compared with the original 265/65r17 tires installed on the truck. We trimmed plastic, CMC'd and flattened the pinch weld. These were done to such a degree to accommodate future plans if so desired. However, this may not be the case for those considering this route due to a plethora of variables that would come into play. Furthermore, I am currently at the mercy of stock gearing, BUT that's not to say that I've noticed a dramatic change in performance. Yes, there is a considerable amount of increased rotating mass and yes, the rev/mile have decreased per the increased diameter of the tire when compared to the previous size installed. I took the liberty of reaching out to ECGS to determine what would be the ideal ratio when paired with these tires and it seems to be a 4.88. But, I believe to a certain degree end-user preference comes into play which is an entirely different bag of snakes. So, my my short n' dirty $0.02 is this, you're probably fine with stock gearing (like me ) for the time being without going balls to the wall buckaroo bansai on the trails. Once the opportunity presents itself though, I'd say 4.56 if you're primarily highway (+65mph) and 4.88 if you're a 50/50 split. Overall, time will tell as things are dialed in.

 

I am 6mt also which changes the variables. If it were just the truck itself I’d be ok with it in stock gears but I have to consider towing the camper in the mtns even if it only weighs about 1400 pounds

 

Exactly, the variables (i.e. circumstances, budgets, conditions, etc.) are the linchpin, no two are alike. Those variables are then compounded even further depending on far down the rabbit hole your willing to go, but I'm referring to more of a technical stand point.

 

You should have tried what I just went through. Rear suspension on the truck plus the SOS bumper. lift kit and switched to 17" wheels with larger tires for the camper. Try to figure out how to get them to balance out so the camper sits level. Is was an adventure you talk about variables

 

You just talk to Skip about suspension

 

Oh Lord knows I'm no genius about it especially all the off road stuff y'all do.

 

of course after I buy 4 brand new spidertrax spacers there are 2 posts in teh BST for half what I paid....

Good thing Amazon has a solid return policy LOL

 

Did you buy them???

 

The ones I ordered shipped out today...I'm trying to get one of these used sets though for a lot cheaper.

 

I know @EatSleepTacos was selling a pair and they sold already.

 

Dude, I even asked you the other day if you were trying to buy two I don’t remember if I said I was selling mine though.

 

You didn't say you were selling, you just asked if I wanted two

 

What we have here is a failure to communicate

 

Now if my damn wheels would hurry up and ship.

 

Hey Skip, does your SOS code work on the weld togethers? Pondering things.

 

Yes it does.

 

How difficult are those to actually assemble?

 

The hardest part is the center section which is already bent and welded together. All you have to do is weld the wings and hoops, if you want them, on. I would bolt the center section up to the truck tack all the wings on to make sure they are lined up with the body and everything. Then remove the bumper to final weld. I would get a piece of tube to tack across the wings to keep them from pulling in when welding. Then I would bolt the bumper back up and mock up the hoops and tack them on remove bumper again and final weld.

 

Little mod bringing the 05 into the 21st century with one of those soft open tailgate mods. The zipties are to guide the cable.

 

That is sort of what I was imagining. That is an excellent option for those with some welding skills that simply can't afford a full price assembled bumper or want to add their own flare.

It'd be a project for sure, but I think with care, could turn out pretty well.