Ben Cadley: '95 Jeep Wrangler

I bought this Wrangler new in 1995, along with an extended guarantee. That guarantee did not last to long, because 3 days later I had my first lift under it. I started out with a 3" body lift, and 32x11.5 Super Swampers. I then added a 4" Superlift, 33x12.5 Super Swampers and Lock-Right lockers to the stock axles. This setup proved to be effective. I ran this for about a year and a half, wheeling this truck every weekend, while also using it as a daily driver. To say the least, I was not very nice to it, but this setup held up great.

This summer I decided to change the truck's suspension once again. I also decided to change the axles to Dana 44’s both front and rear. I started this swap, by finding a Dana 44 that would work in the Wrangler with out having it cut down. I found the perfect swap in a 1988 Grand Wagoneer. I set the front and rear Dana 44’s up with 4.88 gears, ARB air lockers, stainless brake lines, and all new bearings and seals.

I got rid of the 4" springs and went to the spring-over conversion. I used a Rubicon Express factory replacement spring pack that offers a little more flex. In the rear I added buggy springs (3/4 elliptical) to increase the truck's articulation. By adding the buggy springs, I also gained 3" more inches of lift in the rear. I also installed a JB conversion tailshaft conversion in the transfer case. I had Tom Wood make two custom C/V-jointed driveshafts with 8-inch slip splines. I also added a little wider tire by choosing to run the 35x14.5 Boggers on American Racing 15x10 steel rims.

Once the major drive-line components were done, I added a Warn 8000 winch that sits on a Currie Rock bumper. I also fabricated a custom external rollcage (which in part, is still in production). For an on-board air system, I use the ARB compressor, which feeds a 3-gallon holding tank.

Future alterations: This winter I’m preparing to do a V8 swap. (The old 4cyl, does not like pushing the 35’s on the road), and also I’m considering ¼ elliptical rear suspension set up.

This truck sees action all throughout New England, with many of our trail runs being in CT, Mass, and NH. If you are interested in trail riding, or you would like to see more pictures of this truck (and many more) check out www.4playoffroad.com. Hope to see you on the trails!

Find out more about Ben Cadley's Wrangler here