BDS Project KJ Update 2: Tear Down & Build Prep
If you’re just checking out the Project KJ build, the guys down at BDS R&D brought a plain jane ’05 Jeep Liberty (KJ) CRD into the shop to transform it into a low-slung trail rig to take on the 2013 Ultimate Adventure. To get up to speed on the project, check out the last post at (Project KJ, From Soccer Mom to Trail Rig).
In the week or so since we’ve had this Jeep in the shop, the crew has dismantled a perfectly functioning KJ into a massive pile of parts, some of which will be reused, some to be modified, and a lot to be scrapped . At this point we’re trying to figure out what modifications will need to be done to get our desired results. The interior is removed to prep for a custom rollcage, body panels are pulled to see what mods need to be made, front suspension is junked and the rear axle is being used to counter weight the 2.8L CRD up front. We’ve got axles on the way so we can start mocking up the stance. We plan to stretch the stock 104” wheelbase to around 112-114” giving us near vertical approach and departure angles. Stay tuned for more on this project as we continue to transform this KJ into a capable trail rig.
Follow along and join the discussion on Facebook, YouTube, BDS Blog, LostJeeps Forum, and JeepKJ Forum.
This is great to see a major player finally build up a KJ. With so many mildly modified ones rolling around, and quite a few SAS conversions showing up offroad, not to mention the readily available platform I don’t think people have seen the end of one of the Jeeps that JP magazine itself hates so much.