WJ Armor Protection
 

I'm working on building my WJ into a very mildly built DD , weekend trail rider. I've got my XJ for the all the hard wheeling so I just want the WJ to be that "reliable" 4x4 for just trail riding.

I've put a 2" lift on it to get some ground clearance but want to know what armor it needs.

The steering seems beefy enough for the 31's but I don't like how the lower radiator seems unprotected behind the plastic trim. Any after market support you guys would recommend for that area?

Also, What sliders seems to be the best bang for the buck. I've built them in the past for my XJ but decided I just want to go bolt on for the WJ.

I've got the T-Case and Gas Tank Covered along with a Rear Hitch recovery point.

Anything else I should be considering as a week link on a WJ that needs protecting?

Depends on your location and the rust situation. I understand the protection of the radiator and plan on fabricating something for mine. I'm also going to fabricate sliders. The reason I said depends on the rust situation in your area, is the rear control arm mounts are weak, upper and lower, if rust is a issue. They eventually break off. Even if they're clean, I would likely have reinforced mine anyways... I did because they were rusty and broke.
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.che...9d09710cc8.jpg

WJ Love
 

Another WJ convert! Do you also feel less cool in the WJ compared to the XJ?

Try Goliath4x4. They make a skid with shackle tabs that covers and protects lower portion of front end. Not currently listed on their website but I have seen it and is very similar to this pictured one for the WK (link included). Second picture is my rig. I have Goliaths shackle tabs that mount in place of factory tow hooks. Good communication from them.
Sliders are $400 from JCR or Goliath.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jeep-Grand-C...gAAOSw9GhYmomj

Recall N47 (hitch)
 

Does your WJ have an aftermarket hitch that hangs below bumper? If so there is a recall that will install free an OEM hitch and $100 gift card for your trouble.
https://www.chrysler.com/universal/w...ce/pdf/N47.pdf

Here is my parts list i made https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f91/of...-zj-wj-226585/

Mines 99.99% rusty free, I've not found any anywhere.
It's super clean underneath.

I like that Goliath Skid a lot I'll have to look into it.
The hitch when I first looked into it a year ago I was told mine wasn't eligible for some reason so i bought an aftermarket hitch.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4313/...7eb11516_n.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4291/...3509e66a_n.jpg

Then you're very lucky. I've had to plate and box in my lower control arm mounts, and weld the upper on the passenger side back together then welded it to the lower to help support it. As I said, it's held up to the abuse I've been putting it through so at least there's that. If it wasn't so much work, I would swap everything to my parts jeep because that is a Colorado jeep and isn't nearly as rusty as my New York one is.

Luckily you're in NC.....I have family there and might be making the move as well. How's the wheeling situation there? Originally my family is from that area ( mother's side is Cherokee/Choctaw) but I have never been..

You can also shop the junk yards for one with the up-country package.

My 04 WJ is an Overland edition with that package and it came with full factory skid plates on it. It is mainly my DD but have off road it some on fire trails and old logging roads and have had the skid plates contact rocks, logs, etc. numerous times with nothing damaged.

If you can find a set of them it will save you a lot of money over aftermarket ones plus the fit is perfect.

Yeah, mine serves the same purpose.
DD but some occasional side roads and main trail loops at off road parks to get around.