A LOOK AT JKS’S NEW 3” JSPEC JRATED SYSTEM FOR THE 2020 GLADIATOR JT
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The long awaited new Jeep truck is here and right out the gate it has an impressive sell sheet, class leading payload numbers, ample power numbers, offroad capability and unique features like the removable roof. It’s safe to say the new Gladiator is making waves in the offroad market and customers get it. While there are some similarities to the current Wrangler JL in the front suspension, the rear is all new with longer control arms and progressive rate coils that resemble more of the RAM 1500 rear suspension. The truck is capable right off the showroom floor, but its only a matter of time before the aftermarket gets their hands on it to up the ante, providing more performance, more capability, and all the other add-on accessories that come with owning a Jeep. With keys in hand we turned to our friends at JKS Manufacturing in Coldwater, MI to take a look at their newly released 3” Jspec suspension system to get the inside scoop on what it takes to lift the new Gladiator to fit 35-37” tires. JKS Mfg is no stranger to engineering parts for Jeep vehicles, they’ve been at this for 30 years designing solutions for Jeep vehicles.
1 The JT utilizes a similar front 4-link design to the current Wrangler JL. JKS has developed special dual rate coil spring options to maximize performance and capability. A set of FOX 2.0 performance series IFP gas shocks are paired to these coil springs for optimal performance and ride quality for on/off-road driving. The stock track bar is upgraded to a stout JKS heavy duty 1-1/2” OD x 3/8” thick adjustable track bar to properly recenter the front axle. JKS quicker sway bar disconnects are supplied for the front allowing strength, adjustment, and the ability to easily disconnect the sway bars. Billet aluminum CNC-machined bump stop extensions are supplied along with brake line brackets and J-Link lower control arms to improve strength and correct caster. This setup offers stellar performance on the trail while providing the comfort and handling owners expect.
2 The new JL/JT outperforms all previous Jeeps in so many ways, but there’s always room for improvement. In place of the factory lower control arms JKS supplies the J-Link arms, built from 2” OD x .250”-wall DOM tubing, formed inward for improved tire clearance and featuring Cleavite rubber bushings for quiet operation, long life and maintenance-free operation. The longer design corrects caster for up to 4.5” lift kits and the heavy wall design is built to take any abuse you can throw at it out on the trail.
3 The rear suspension features several new and unique features. The rear of this Jspec Jrated system includes dual rate coils to maintain ride quality without losing tow capacity. Adjustable sway bar end links, a heavy duty track bar bracket, brake line brackets, and a matching set of FOX 2.0 shocks round out the rear for a level stance that pairs perfectly with the front.