Yj 35s
The Jeep Wrangler YJ is a classic off-road vehicle that many outdoor enthusiasts prefer due to its unique military-inspired look and robust build. Due to the vehicle’s age, certain modifications can undoubtedly make it even more reliable and effective off-road. One such popular modification involves fitting a Jeep YJ with 35-inch tires. This upgrade often referred to as “YJ 35s”, provides a remarkable increase in the vehicle’s ground clearance, which significantly enhances its ability to tackle challenging terrains.
However, fitting Jeep YJ with 35-inch tires is not as straightforward as it may initially seem. Therefore, it is essential to ensure an informed understanding of the process. Additionally, this modification can lead to certain problems that may arise post-fitting – another crucial aspect one must be aware of before making the decision.
The Process of Fitting YJ with 35s
The process of fitting 35s on a Jeep YJ involves several critical steps. Each step must be carried out with precision and care to ensure the vehicle’s safety and performance. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you with the process:
Begin with the Suspension: The first thing to consider when fitting 35s on a YJ is the suspension. You will need a lift kit to raise your vehicle’s suspension. A lift of around 4 inches should provide ample room for your new tires.
Upgrade the Axles: Next, consider the axles. Most stock YJs come with Dana 30 front axles and Dana 35 rear ones. However, these are not strong enough to handle 35-inch tires consistently. Hence, an upgrade to Dana 44 or Ford 8.8 axles can be beneficial.
Check the Gearing: With larger tires, your vehicle’s stock gearing might not be up to par. You may need to re-gear your vehicle to ensure that it can handle the extra load efficiently.
Upgrade the Brakes: Last but not least, don’t forget about the brakes. With larger tires, your stopping distance will increase unless you upgrade the brakes. A disc brake conversion is highly recommended in this regard.
Possible Problems with Fitting YJ 35s and Solutions
While fitting your Jeep YJ with 35s can boost its off-road capabilities tremendously, it may also lead to some potential issues. Some common problems and possible solutions are:
Drive Shaft Angle Changes: Fitting 35s could change the drive shaft angle, leading to vibrations while driving. A drive shaft upgrade or an adjustment of the drive shaft angle can help mitigate this issue.
Increased Load on the Engine: Larger tires put more load on the vehicle’s engine, possibly leading to decreased performance. Re-gearing the vehicle can help balance out this additional load.
Lower Fuel Efficiency: Larger tires can also decrease the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. While there’s no direct solution to this problem, regular maintenance and prudent driving can help maximize fuel efficiency to some extent.
Frequently Asked Questions about YJ 35s
Many Jeep enthusiasts have some common queries when it comes to fitting YJ 35s.
Q1: Can I fit 35s without lifting my Jeep YJ?
A1: While it might be physically possible to fit 35s on a YJ without a lift, it will severely limit the vehicle’s mobility and may cause rubbing and damage to the tires and vehicle.
Q2: Will 35s affect my Jeep YJ’s speedometer reading?
A2: Yes, fitting 35s might cause your speedometer to display slower speeds than what the vehicle is actually doing due to the larger tire circumference.
Q3: Can I use my stock spare tire carrier for the new 35s?
A3: No, you would need to get a new spare tire carrier. The stock carrier might not be robust enough to handle the weight and size of a 35-inch tire.
Final Thoughts
Modifying a Jeep YJ with 35-inch tires can immensely enhance its off-roading capabilities. However, careful planning and implementation are essential to ensure that this modification leads to benefits, not issues. Always remember that while this upgrade can significantly bolster your Jeep’s off-road prowess, it might lead to potential challenges that you must be prepared to handle. Invest in the necessary upgrades and ensure appropriate maintenance to keep your modified Jeep YJ running smoothly and efficiently. Happy off-roading with your YJ 35s!
