What could be the possible modifications you can make on your Jeep Cherokee?
In this article, we give you brilliant ideas on what they can be to help you turn your typical daily ride into an off-road force meant to be reckoned.
ARE THERE ANY GOOD MODS FOR A JEEP CHEROKEE?
Yes, there are. In terms of modifying your Jeep Cherokee, the following parts should be given top priority to maximize vehicle function on harsh environments:
- Suspension lift kits
- 4×4 tires
- 4×4 snorkel kits
- Differential lockers
- Bumpers and winches
WHAT ARE SUSPENSION LIFT KITS USED FOR?
Suspension lift kits are used for raising your ride’s height to increase ground clearance when going over huge obstacles. Unlike body lift kits which only increase the driver and passenger areas of your vehicle, suspension lift kits increase the entire undercarriage affecting the driver, passenger, and engine frames to get them out of any hurdle’s way. And because the height is improved, you’re easily warned of incoming obstacles due to a better view.
WHAT ARE 4X4 TIRES USED FOR?
4×4 tires is a general term used to refer to a set of tires meant for special or specific terrains where ordinary tires won’t be able to go over. Some of them are:
- Rock tires – have reinforced sidewalls for durability and “hugging” surfaces that adjust to the shape of boulders to easily climb over them.
- Snow tires – have three key features, studs, deeper tread patterns, and three-peak mountain snowflake seal. They “bite” on snow for traction.
- All-terrain tires – have block tread patterns to prevent water buildups with close lug patterns for a comfortable ride.
WHAT ARE 4X4 SNORKEL KITS USED FOR?
4×4 snorkel kits are important because they reduce stress on your engine during extreme off-roading conditions. This is because they raise your air intake’s position to a higher level to prevent mud, dust, and water ingestion, as well as improve airflow passage into your engine via the valve that comes with them. Other benefits of snorkel kits include:
- Reduced fuel consumption.
- Less maintenance.
- Reduced engine clogs.
WHAT ARE DIFFERENTIAL LOCKERS USED FOR?
Differential lockers are mechanisms that bind your tires to spin at the same speed, in similar direction, at the same time, to ensure that proper traction on uneven surfaces is maintained. This is very crucial in 4x4ing because if the tires move in different speeds and directions, the following can happen:
- Traction is reduced.
- Getting unstuck is difficult due to lack of movement.
WHAT ARE BUMPERS USED FOR?
As the name suggests, bumpers are used for damage reduction on both the vehicle and the rider. This is because upon collision, bumpers slightly recoil, absorbing a portion of the force of impact that could come from wild animals or fellow 4x4ers. They’re also known to reduce stress on tow points and increase 4WDs’ towing capability.
WHAT ARE 4X4 WINCHES USED FOR?
4×4 winches are powerful devices that help pull you out when suddenly stuck in a tight or sticky spot. Of course, when choosing the 4×4 winches for your 4WDs, you have to bear in mind if you prefer synthetic ropes over wire cables or vise versa. The former is 15x stronger than wire cables, but the latter is easier to maintain than synthetic ropes.
Then, there’s also the pulling capacity which’s dependent on your 4WD’s weight. It should always be at least 1.5x of your vehicle’s total weight, whether it’s a jeep, pickup truck, or SUV.
CONCLUSION
Modifying your Jeep Cherokee isn’t just a matter of purely looking good in front of others. It’s a matter of readiness when you find yourself in the face of the unknown and resiliency when you’re suddenly in Mother Nature’s mercy. Do you have other modification ideas for your Jeep Cherokee? Share them with us through your comments.
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