JT Rubicon build for camping and the trail

very impressive Ken!

Quote: Originally posted by mtgoat666

Cute car, ken! Looks like a Tonka toy miniature monster truck! How you gonna taxi your momma around? Do you lift her in/out of the car?

Quote: Originally posted by David K

Quote: Originally posted by chippy   Very nice! Now go get it dirty! Agree, as soon as you can! Use LOW RANGE and test the lockers... Because it is untested, go with a companion vehicle (have a tow strap). Maybe I can go out along with you on a run? Show me what's nearby in Mojave Desert to four wheel at. As soon as you know how it all works and get the bugs out, TAKE IT TO BAJA!

Some Jeep!

ready for KOH in February??

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

This Jeep is going to need steps, because you now have to climb in and jump out!

Quote: Originally posted by Maderita

That's a badburro build!

Shakedown run

On Saturday, I took my Jeep truck out for a shakedown run. The only hiccup was the new hardware holding my swaybar rattled off during along a washboard road later in the day. Replacement hardware was sourced at Home Depot yesterday, and my trucks handling is back to being solid, firm.

Greeting all of the Jeep, Toyota and Gladiator Owners!


Airing our tires down for better traction, cut resistance. Leidys happily awaiting our trip into Joshua Tree.


Berdoo Canyon Road leads from Desert Hot Springs into Joshua Tree. Passenger cars are not encouraged to travel this route, although a 2wd pickup or SUV can make the trip.



A 20 year old Cherokee blew its radiator hose. Without a spare, we towed the SUV into the park where a new hose awaited us.

Two Tacomas joined us, and their performance was impressive. This stock Tacoma went exactly everywhere our modified Jeeps went - just like David K and Mtn Goat said they would!



Once the two Cherokees left the group and 1/2 of our group departed, we traveled across Old Dale Road to Gold Crown Road for a night run!

At the end of the run, I was happy to say the Gladiator allowed my wife and I to carry all of our necessities comfortably - water, fridge/freezer, overnight suitcase, canned foods (in case of emergency), tools, recovery gear, air compressor, CO2 tank, everything fit without any compromises in our comfort.

Here is a small mud hole along Gold Crown road

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

The only hiccup was the new hardware holding my swaybar rattled off during along a washboard road later in the day. Replacement hardware was sourced at Home Depot yesterday, and my trucks handling is back to being solid, firm.

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   The only hiccup was the new hardware holding my swaybar rattled off during along a washboard road later in the day. Replacement hardware was sourced at Home Depot yesterday, and my trucks handling is back to being solid, firm. Blue Loctite. Or, Red, if you're manly. John [Edited on 1-20-2020 by John Harper]

I believe that I used blue. This time, I will use red and some zip ties.

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper   Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   The only hiccup was the new hardware holding my swaybar rattled off during along a washboard road later in the day. Replacement hardware was sourced at Home Depot yesterday, and my trucks handling is back to being solid, firm. Blue Loctite. Or, Red, if you're manly. John [Edited on 1-20-2020 by John Harper] I believe that I used blue. This time, I will use red and some zip ties.

Brand new jeep and the suspension is already falling apart, and loose parts being held on with zip ties!

I once had a jeep Cherokee. At the 95,000 mile mark the car still ran great, but all of the trim and switches started breaking off...

I recommend you travel with an assortment of zip ties, duct tape, hose clamps and super glue.

Maybe your mom can buy you a AAA membership so you got a reliable fixed-cost tow service! And for backcountry, get your mom to buy you a sat phone!

I do recommend you continue to travel in caravans, as that jeep don’t sound reliable enough to venture offroad solo!







[Edited on 1-21-2020 by mtgoat666]

Quote: Originally posted by Mr. Bills

Seriously Dude, get a life.

In my circles, it's called, "JEEP ENVY"



[Edited on 1-22-2020 by Ken Cooke]

Quote: Originally posted by mtgoat666

I recommend you travel with an assortment of zip ties, duct tape, hose clamps and super glue.

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Part two will likely be in early April up in Big Bear, CA as a Gladiator-only event!

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   Part two will likely be in early April up in Big Bear, CA as a Gladiator-only event! My buddy has a place a Green Valley Lake and rides all the trails up there. What route are you taking in April? Or, if you have any trails you're interested in knowing about, I can ask my bud. John

Quote: Originally posted by David K

Hope to see your Jeep Gladiator in Baja, soon!

Well, for one trip you don't need an annual policy. Having so much cargo room for a Baja trip is why I like having a truck bed behind the 4-door cab. Baby steps, but get that beautiful Jeep truck south of the border and away from paved roads!

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote: Originally posted by David K   Hope to see your Jeep Gladiator in Baja, soon! When insurance is less than $1,000/year annual for full coverage. Until then, my 2003 will do just fine.

Good news Pacifico

Quote: Originally posted by Pacifico

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   Quote: Originally posted by David K   Hope to see your Jeep Gladiator in Baja, soon! When insurance is less than $1,000/year annual for full coverage. Until then, my 2003 will do just fine. Have you checked the prices on Discover Baja's site? They have a policy that is good for 120 days of travel in an annual policy. Good for most people that do several trips throughout the year, but don't live there. Check it out... I did a quote based on 40K value and it was about $500. The carriers are HDI and CHUBB. From their website: Annual Club Rate - BEST ANNUAL RATE ON THE MARKET This Annual Policy is good for any 120 days within the 12 month policy period - perfect for multiple trips to Mexico throughout the year. This special Club Rate is designed for people who drive to Mexico multiple times throughout the year, but do not leave the vehicle in Mexico for the entire year. As long as the vehicle is in Mexico for less than a total of 121 days (4 months) throughout the year, this is the best product for you! If your vehicle will be in Mexico for a total of more than 120 days within the annual policy period, you will need to purchase our discounted Annual 365 Day Policy.

Quote: Originally posted by John M

Thanks for the heads up and posting some sort of price guide. We've used Baja Bound for a good number of years but I think those prices you posted are considerably more favorable. And, it'll be time to renew soon as travel opens up. John M

Quote: Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote: Originally posted by Pacifico   Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   Quote: Originally posted by David K   Hope to see your Jeep Gladiator in Baja, soon! When insurance is less than $1,000/year annual for full coverage. Until then, my 2003 will do just fine. Have you checked the prices on Discover Baja's site? They have a policy that is good for 120 days of travel in an annual policy. Good for most people that do several trips throughout the year, but don't live there. Check it out... I did a quote based on 40K value and it was about $500. The carriers are HDI and CHUBB. From their website: Annual Club Rate - BEST ANNUAL RATE ON THE MARKET This Annual Policy is good for any 120 days within the 12 month policy period - perfect for multiple trips to Mexico throughout the year. This special Club Rate is designed for people who drive to Mexico multiple times throughout the year, but do not leave the vehicle in Mexico for the entire year. As long as the vehicle is in Mexico for less than a total of 121 days (4 months) throughout the year, this is the best product for you! If your vehicle will be in Mexico for a total of more than 120 days within the annual policy period, you will need to purchase our discounted Annual 365 Day Policy. nice price. how do you add utility trailer if you only tow a trailer on occasional trips, not all trips?

Quote: Originally posted by David K

Guys, Baja Bound and Discover Baja sell for the same Mexican companies (last I heard). I get a 90 days per year policy and is cheaper than a daily policy for just 30 days coverage. I have bought the same 90 days per year policy from Discover Baja, too. The 120 day policy must be new?

I'm not sure about a 90 day annual, but they do offer a 120 day annual...

Leidys and I have been taking the Gladiator out every weekend, getting accustomed to its capabilities and comfort factor. We travel solo due to our health issues. The Gladiator has exceeded my expectations and then some.





The approximately 6" of front suspension lift provide enough room for the 38" Patagonia MTs to droop and stuff without fender interference.



Pleasant Valley - Joshua Tree National Park

Quote: Originally posted by AKgringo

Ken, did you notice the graffiti on the rock in your second photo? Your Jeep is literally on LSD!

Quote: Originally posted by bajatrailrider

Ken your off road toy assume I hope to join you on next Baja run

Quote: Originally posted by bajatrailrider

I'm with you Ken my area in baja is open and beach. it is as safe as it gets simple no people. Going to Ensenada shopping now that is scary.

The era of sleeping on the ground is coming to a close

Lots of good camping in Baja with this tent, but a roof top tent will be much better and increase day camping and outback camping possibilities.

Joshua Tree National Park - Brooklyn Mine Jeep Trail


Breakfast with NOBODY AROUND

John has some good points, but I have never felt an air mattress was cold...
The roof mounted tents have one issue, perhaps for older folks: The late night pee... Falling, missing a step on the ladder, etc. would be a concern.
My Instant Tent from Coleman has been nothing short of amazing for the past 9 years in Baja, so it will work a bit longer, I think?

Shell Island, 2015:


[Edited on 9-16-2020 by David K]

Quote: Originally posted by David K

John has some good points, but I have never felt an air mattress was cold...

I used my Klymit Static V Lite insulated backpacking pad on my cot for a
short while. It's always worked great on the ground. But, I found I was getting cold at night, and realized body heat was just going out from the bottom of the cot. So, I went back to my Thermarest Camper XL pad, which is like sleeping on a bed, and being cold no longer an issue.


Eastern Sierra, July 2020 (Thermarest and 30* bag)

Wyoming, July 2019 (note Klymit pad and 15* bag!)

Good point about the need to pee at night, too. Nothing like being able to just get up and put your feet on the ground, a cot is the way to go IMO.


John


[Edited on 9-16-2020 by John Harper]

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper

The only issue I see with the Upper Decker is the same as with any regular camper shell. And, if you're going to remove the truck top tent and store it, how much time are you really saving versus the 15 minutes to set up your regular tent? How much space does that take up to store, versus a tent and mattresses? Also, how heavy is that truck tent when putting it back on? I see it's listed as weighing 154 pounds? And, do you also have to buy a rack for your truck to mount it? I'm looking forward to a report on how this new configuration works out. Good luck! John [Edited on 9-17-2020 by John Harper]

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Air mattresses lose inflation in the middle of the night - no matter how new they are.

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper   The only issue I see with the Upper Decker is the same as with any regular camper shell. And, if you're going to remove the truck top tent and store it, how much time are you really saving versus the 15 minutes to set up your regular tent? How much space does that take up to store, versus a tent and mattresses? Also, how heavy is that truck tent when putting it back on? I see it's listed as weighing 154 pounds? And, do you also have to buy a rack for your truck to mount it? I'm looking forward to a report on how this new configuration works out. Good luck! John [Edited on 9-17-2020 by John Harper] After camping with four wheelers with roof top tents, I always asked myself why I put up with so much unnecessary work. I don't like my gear always covered in dust from the trail. Rain would be much more bothersome. Air mattresses lose inflation in the middle of the night - no matter how new they are. With all of the work that I do, I feel as if I deserve something better.

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   Air mattresses lose inflation in the middle of the night - no matter how new they are. I've never sprung a leak...im obviously not doing something right!

Don't just take my word..listen to what Kevin has to say

Quote: Originally posted by Don Pisto

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper   Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   Air mattresses lose inflation in the middle of the night - no matter how new they are. I've never sprung a leak...im obviously not doing something right! I often leak in the middle of the night, but it doesn't smell like mattress air. John [Edited on 9-18-2020 by John Harper]

Peer pressure - now, I'm considering a lifted camp trailer!

New (hidden) parts

Most of the time, its the parts that you don't see that are better than ones you can see.

- DeeZee pickup bed liner
- K&N Cabin Air Filter (rechargeable 10 yrs/1,000,000 miles)
- Ice Caps (black) lug nut covers

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To answer the question - "Why does your truck need 38" tires?"

Before:



After (same rock/different angle):

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

New (hidden) parts Most of the time, its the parts that you don't see that are better than ones you can see. - DeeZee pickup bed liner - K&N Cabin Air Filter (rechargeable 10 yrs/1,000,000 miles) - Ice Caps (black) lug nut covers --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To answer the question - "Why does your truck need 38" tires?" Before: After (same rock/different angle):

It looks like there is plenty of space and smooth ground to drive around that rock. I have found that my truck experiences less wear/tear when I drive around the rock instead of over the rock

P.s. both times your truck got stuck on top of the rock? Wassup with that?

Quote: Originally posted by mtgoat666

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To answer the question - "Why does your truck need 38" tires?" It looks like there is plenty of space and smooth ground to drive around that rock. I have found that my truck experiences less wear/tear when I drive around the rock instead of over the rock P.s. both times your truck got stuck on top of the rock? Wassup with that?

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke

A cot? Really?? What happens when the wife gets cold at night? I know.. Grab the electric blanket!

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   A cot? Really?? What happens when the wife gets cold at night? I know.. Grab the electric blanket! They do make two person cots and pads. Try it, you might like it. https://kamprite.com/shop/sleep/cots/kamp-rite-double-kwik-c... John [Edited on 10-13-2020 by John Harper]

Quote: Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote: Originally posted by John Harper   Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke   A cot? Really?? What happens when the wife gets cold at night? I know.. Grab the electric blanket! They do make two person cots and pads. Try it, you might like it. https://kamprite.com/shop/sleep/cots/kamp-rite-double-kwik-c... John [Edited on 10-13-2020 by John Harper] For car camping with tent, Get a queen size air bed. They come with 12v air pump to inflate or deflate. For sleeping under the stars, get one of the good thermarest pads (more like a matteess than a pad)