I'm really behind on my project updates. I had the Long-Tube Headers installed early this year, and have added a Body Armor Roof Rack and rear bumber with tire carrier. Need to add pics. I have also installed two transmission oil temp gauges, one from the hot (out) line and one from the cool (in) line. Need to get a set of benchmark readings. I have seen the hot temp as high as 285 (ouch!). I have already purchased a B&M Auxiliary Transmission Cooler and the Rock Krawler deep sump puncture proof transmission oil pan. Those both will be going on in the near future.

Upcoming Mods ---

• Possible GEN2 Upgrade to Super Charger from RIPPMODS
• AEV nth Degree 3.5 inch Premium Lift
• 35 inch tires (Goodyear Wrangler MT/R) and new wheels (AEV?)
• 5.13 Gears
• B&M Automatic Transmission Cooler w/Temp Gauge Kit
• AEM Oil Temp and Pressure Gauges

Oh, I almost forgot to mention that I have also added a Warn PowerPlant Dual Force HP winch on top of a Rugged Ridge winch mount XHD modular system with tips and brush guard. I also added a Rugged Ridge front skid plate. I will have to add new pics when I get the chance.

Recent Updates to my JK-Project

I thought it was time to update my blog. Since I last posted I have had to deal with my stock catalytic converters failing and plugging the exhaust system. Damm thing couldn't breath anymore. Well, since I needed new cats, I just decided to purchase the new Long Tube Headers w/after market cats exhaust kit from RIPPMODs to go along with my RIPP SC and my catback off-road peformance exhaust.

Man, this setup really breaths and sounds great now!

Its time to show the final results of the SDS install. Here are some wrap-up photos of the completed build...

The set-up includes a switchable

fuel map between regular (87/89)

and premium (91+) gas...

The final component is the Water / Methanol Boost intercooler control to cool down the air charge under boost...

SDS Install is Nearly Complete

I have completed installing the Supercharger and it is working perfectly. The only component not yet installed is the Methanol / Water intercooler that is still back ordered. I have a few pictures of the final sequences.

Battery Box before cut-out of side facing the engine.

Looking down to reveal the cut-out. The cut-out mod of the battery box makes room for the Vortech V3 and High Flow Air filter.

Battery relocated to where the air-box used to be.

New Granatelli MPG Zero resistance Spark Plug wires and NGK IX Iridium Plugs

Fuel line splice and tee for the added fueler rail

This is the new High-Flow Air Filter into the SDS

I'll have some final pictures and a wrap-up of how it "drives" in my next post.

SDS Install Final Stages

It has been a couple weeks since my last update, but I have not been idle when it comes to my JK project. My MBRP Performance Off-Road exhaust came in, so I decided to get that installed as part of the overall performance gain I expect to get from my SDS. The hardest part of removing the stock exhaust was trying to get the mounts out of the rubber retainers. After a lot of lubricant and some significant prying with my large flat-bladed screw drivers, I finally managed to the get the stock system out. It is two pieces, a long connector pipe and the muffler. The muffler is the biggest reason for the swap, it hangs back there like a big garbage can, where any large rock will crush it, as noted in many Jeep forums.

The new exhaust comes in four pieces, a connector pipe, a performance muffler, an extension pipe (from the muffler), and a tail pipe (over axle). It all connects up to the same rubber retainers. The main difference is that the smaller muffler is mounted under the frame in line with the rest of the exhaust.

One thing of note, MBRP highly recommends relocation of the EVAP canisterr due to the proximity of the new muffler (heat) to the unit. It is also a good idea to move it out of harms way as it is easy to catch on rocks and brush. I opted for the Die-Tech relocation kit that mounts over the rear axle (passenger side).

This provides added protection due to location and a steel plate that protects it from stray rocks and debris. The EVAP canister relocation provided plenty of room for the muffler underneath and still cleared the tail pipe over the axle (driver side).