Since the topic is at hand, I’m wondering if you guys could name a threshold build level below which frame stiffeners aren’t really essential and above which they are. Let’s say for typically easy/moderate wheeling with the occasional challenge of say, a Poison Spider Mesa. The reason I ask is that I am on 31’s with a front frame mounted rigid aftermarket bumper, class 3 trailer hitch (frame mounted) in back, and AJ’s sliders, and I feel pretty solid and see no tell-tale signs of a problem like poor door fitment. I don’t really want to grind off the paint and undercoat from my frame rails if I don’t have to, not to mention my complete lack of welding skills and equipment.
Also, I already have a CROK reinforcement for the frame rail where the steering box attaches. I’m assuming I’d have to take that off to get one of the manufactured front braces like the HD Offroad on (yes/no?).
I’ve read were the use lockers would add stress to the framerails, but I’m having a hard time wrapping my brains around that idea. Any opinions there?
Good question... Everyone probaby had different experience... I've wheeled my XJ for seven years with 4-1/2" lift, rear Detroit and front ARB. Lockers do add more stress simply because when you hang up, it keeps pulling rather than just spin a single tire..
I'm not hard core, but do moderate - extreme trails in this area. I've been to Moab, and Hell's Revenge is not unlike what we do around here from a difficulty level. I try to wheel about 6 or more times a year, and some years are definately more. I have had NO cracking issues anywhere. The ONLY issue was the front of the rear leaf hangers trying to come up through the floor... My "reinforcements" were similar to yours up until I added an exo cage last year.. I'm sure all the rust hasn't helped either (rust belt).
Since I went up to about 7" with one tons and 37s so reinforcement was decided on.
A good friend gave me 1/8" stampings that were about 4x4 angles with three holes. Other than taking lots of wire to attach, these worked awesome. For the flat areas, simply hammered them flat, then overlaid so they went under the rail. Thus regions are 1/4" thick. Should be fine.
On the driver side around the gas fill, simply tied in some square tube. Tied everything to the trailer hitch. (the tin around the hoses is just a spatter gard).
Same for front..
For the center, did a single layer of stampings, then tied this to the rockers that are welded to the pinch seam every 6". This was all plated with 3/16". Main reason is that I didn't want center of the frame to be crush zone in the event of an accident.
I've yet to wheel it, but have done couple hundred miles of road (not done with build yet). It's definately much stiffer.
Keep in mind, I have NO fancy tools. Everything has been done in my back yard (yup) with hand tools. All you need is imagination and will power. I'm also an old coot, so you young wipper-snappers have no excuse at all!
