2024 Gladiator Rubicon

Finally got the JT out on the trails for a shakedown run! Coming from a full build, this was a little different — but regardless of the Jeep’s size, it still performed amazingly. It handled the obstacles I threw at it like a champ and stayed pretty stable, even in some tricky situations.

However, this run gave me a clear idea of where I want to take the build and where to start. One main issue with the JT is the breakover — no big surprise there! The first major upgrade I want to tackle is improving ground clearance.

I’ve considered a few ways to do this, and one option is to start with highline fenders, wheels, and tires. From there, I can build the lift as needed. This approach would be the quickest way to get the job done, and realistically, the Rubicon suspension package already does a solid job. The extra clearance from bigger wheels should be enough for the trails I plan to run for now, and the highline fenders would provide the additional up-travel clearance needed to maintain articulation on the trails.

But hey, this is just the beginning! Building a stock Jeep offers so many possibilities that there’s really no wrong place to start. I’ve been in contact with a few companies whose products I’ve used on past builds and would love to incorporate them on this one. I’m very excited about the possibilities and can’t wait to share what’s coming next!

For now, this little blue Jeep can get the job done as-is — which means as it gets built out, the capability will be insane!

After wheeling the Gladiator stock for a bit, I finally got a clear vision of where I wanted to take this build. I started with a 3.5" Rock Jock 4x4 suspension, and man, it’s a total game-changer. It’s not just about the taller stance; it actually gives the truck the ground clearance and flex it needs to crawl through the rough stuff with way more confidence.

For the 'shoes,' I went with Milestar Patagonia MT-02s on Dirty Life beadlocks. This combo is solid—the tires grab onto just about anything, and the beadlocks let me air down way low so the rubber can really wrap around the rocks without me worrying about popping a bead. It’s a setup that performs great without making the rig feel like it's 'too much' for a daily driver.

The best part is just how much more 'planted' the Gladiator feels now. It’s sure-footed and ready to take on technical sections that used to feel a bit sketchy when I was stock.

But honestly? This is still just the foundation. I’ve got plenty of plans for armor, gearing, and lights, but I’m not in a rush. I’m a big believer that the best way to build a rig is to let the trails tell you what you need next. You can’t beat real seat time when it comes to figuring out your roadmap!

This stage of the build is all about field-testing and seeing what works. After a few trail runs, one thing is certain: the choices we’ve made so far are paying off. The Rock Jock 4x4 suspension articulates perfectly while maintaining a smooth ride. Our KC lighting setup has also been dialed in for every environment; the amber backlights provide excellent visibility in dust and rain without blinding oncoming traffic, while the white driving lights turn night into day off-road. We also added rock lights which were a breeze to install and make spotting trail obstacles much easier.

Based on our recent outings, I have a few new items on the list. First is under-body visibility. My previous rig had a 'rock cam' to monitor the front suspension and driveshaft; the Gladiator needs this even more due to its longer wheelbase and breakover angle. In tight spots, that extra viewpoint is the difference between clearing an obstacle and getting hung up.

I’m also looking at a new air-up system. My current compressor has been a workhorse for a decade, but it’s struggling to keep up with these 38s. I’m currently weighing the pros and cons of a CO2 tank versus a high-output onboard compressor. Beyond that, I’m considering adjustable shocks to fine-tune the ride quality for both highway and trail. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and there is no better way to plan the next phase than by getting more seat time. Get out there and explore! Until next time.