How much weight is TOO much weight?

[FastGlass]

So, of the people running fully built out Jeeps...unlimited in particular, once armor, racks, extra batteries, fridges, bumpers, RTTs etc are added, what are the running weights of your rigs? Over 3 tonnes? What issues, other than fuel economy are you noticing? Do your vehicles still perform as intended if you go and hit moderate to difficult terrain without issue?

 

[JIMBO]

:sombrero: My '08 JKUR weighs 5150 lbs-unloaded and with load close to 5900lbs (not that often), but I have had her that high and pulling trailer the GVW-combined is close to 7000lbs-

The jeep is highly modified so there's no noticeable difference in handling/power/mileage and the brakes are more than adequate !

:wings::costumed-smiley-007 JIMBO

 

[FastGlass]

:sombrero: My '08 JKUR weighs 5150 lbs-unloaded and with load close to 5900lbs (not that often), but I have had her that high and pulling trailer the GVW-combined is close to 7000lbs-

The jeep is highly modified so there's no noticeable difference in handling/power/mileage and the brakes are more than adequate !

:wings::costumed-smiley-007 JIMBO

Thanks Jimbo,
So, in my ignorance, let me ask you,
The poor payload capabilities of the JKUR or any stock configured jeep....is that a function primarily of what the stock axles can take safely? Or the suspension, or a combination of both, or something else entirely?
just not up to snuff on vehicle stuff.
The reason I'm asking is that, as I figured it out the other night, my Jeep, after the stuff I have coming is installed, will weigh in around 6100+lbs...without my two, 135 lb Shepherds, myself, our son or gas and water (this number does reflect an extensive tool bag and all the recovery gear).

 

[JIMBO]

:sombrero: I think the GVW is based on suspension/gear ratios and power-

Thanks Jimbo,
So, in my ignorance, let me ask you,
The poor payload capabilities of the JKUR or any stock coiffure jeep....is that a function primarily of what the stock axles can take safely? Or the suspension, or a combination of both, or something else entirely?
just not up to snuff on vehicle stuff.
The reason I'm asking is that, as I figured it out the other night, my Jeep, after the stuff I have coming is installed, will weigh in around 6100+lbs...without my two, 135 lb Shepherds, myself, our son or gas and water (this number does reflect an extensive tool bag and all the recovery gear).

What year/model jeep are you talking about and if it's a 4dr (JKU) than the basic weight is around 4300lbs/w hardtop -

You must be adding HEAVY bumpers/winch--remember when you add equip., you usually have to REMOVE equip also !

:costumed-smiley-007:wings: JIMBO

 

[FastGlass]

It's a 2015 JKUR. They ARE heavy. A Zeon 10-s and custom E1 bumpers...with additional grill guard. (Here's a pic pre powder)

The std E1 trail front is 105#...so figure 125~#
The rear w sway away tire is ~155#
There are pro rocks going on...60 rear and 44U up front. Rock monsters etc...the build is in my sig if your interested, but I've already done the math. I'm probably off give or take 150#
Good call on the removal thing...I guess I won't really know until it's done just how much more weight it's going to gain by replacing stock pieces, but really, I'm trying to figure out what kind of issues, if any, people are having when actually USING their Jeeps with these kind of weights.

 

[SSF556]

my fully loaded WK CRD, full tank of diesel, 2 humans and a dog weighs exactly 6100 pounds. That is roughly 200 pounds over the Jeep stated max weight. I have upgraded hp/torque, suspension and brakes. I would not go much over 6100 pounds for me.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[jdillard]

If you're swapping out axles, springs, etc. the listed weight ratings probably aren't relevant any more. Best bet is to ask Dynatrac for some guidance. I don't know how much stock I'd place on forum advice for this question - you'll always find someone who's loaded up their jeep 3 times over the weight rating without problems. That doesn't mean they can go around the world like that, or that they just haven't been lucky up to this point. There's lots of Questionable Jeep Advice™ out there.

My advice? I think trailers look good on Jeeps.

 

[FastGlass]

If you're swapping out axles, springs, etc. the listed weight ratings probably aren't relevant any more. Best bet is to ask Dynatrac for some guidance......

Im betting you are correct sir. I know a built axle...especially a PR60 (even though semi float) and the AEV tuned spring/shock combo will handle more weight over stock. Just curious about other issues like weight and height causing "tippiness" or blown transfer cases on moderate trails etc...

...There's lots of Questionable Jeep Advice™ out there....

Trade marked? Love it.

...My advice? I think trailers look good on Jeeps.

No trailers for this guy. I've seen em, and like the idea, but I'm really wanting this to be a pack grab and go type of setup...no extra thought than making sure I got the extra gas tanks filled, and the keys...

 

[JIMBO]

:sombrero: Total maybe 7000lbs GVW-

No problems

Now an additional 130lbs/w the RTT--will it ever end ?

:costumed-smiley-007:wings: JIMBO

 

[mrchips]

My 06 LJ unlimited Rubi weighs 5300 lbs with ProR 60/ PR 44, 37's, winch, bumpers, armor and recovery gear, add extra lbs when myself and wife hit the road, with 5.38 gears it does great puling a AT Chaser trailer, and I get around 14.5 mpg that is not too bad. Upgrading the axles added more weight, but I also got bigger disc brakes so it has no problem stopping, handles well and works great in the dirt/trails.
I feel I need to put her on a diet, as loaded for a trip I bet I am at the 6K mark Jeep alone.

 

[brianjwilson]

Thanks Jimbo,
So, in my ignorance, let me ask you,
The poor payload capabilities of the JKUR or any stock configured jeep....is that a function primarily of what the stock axles can take safely? Or the suspension, or a combination of both, or something else entirely?
just not up to snuff on vehicle stuff.
The reason I'm asking is that, as I figured it out the other night, my Jeep, after the stuff I have coming is installed, will weigh in around 6100+lbs...without my two, 135 lb Shepherds, myself, our son or gas and water (this number does reflect an extensive tool bag and all the recovery gear).

Everything on the factory jk is weak regarding suspension, axles, steering etc. In my opinion. My JKRU weighed 5500lbs with myself in the seat, full tank of gas and one tool bag. On many trips I'd say I was well over 6k lbs. Some trips with four adults and the rear stacked to the roof with gear (and a hitch rack with cooler etc), and a 5 week trip with my wife and I, lots of gear, thousand of miles, hundreds off road. The AEV suspension made a huge difference in handling, off road and on. I also put a ton of money into steering components, all upgraded ball joints, tie rod, drag link, track bars etc. The front axle was trussed and gusseted. D rated 35" tires. Eventually upgraded control arms, drive shafts, teraflex HD 44 front axle. On and on. Because the factory pieces were quickly wearing out under my use. I also re-geared the axles, some configurations are very poorly geared.

When all was said and done it handled very well, even fully loaded. But it took a lot to get it there and make me feel good about using it hard in remote places.

 

[FastGlass]

Everything on the factory jk is weak regarding suspension, axles, steering etc. In my opinion. My JKRU weighed 5500lbs with myself in the seat, full tank of gas and one tool bag. On many trips I'd say I was well over 6k lbs. Some trips with four adults and the rear stacked to the roof with gear (and a hitch rack with cooler etc), and a 5 week trip with my wife and I, lots of gear, thousand of miles, hundreds off road. The AEV suspension made a huge difference in handling, off road and on. I also put a ton of money into steering components, all upgraded ball joints, tie rod, drag link, track bars etc. The front axle was trussed and gusseted. D rated 35" tires. Eventually upgraded control arms, drive shafts, teraflex HD 44 front axle. On and on. Because the factory pieces were quickly wearing out under my use. I also re-geared the axles, some configurations are very poorly geared.

When all was said and done it handled very well, even fully loaded. But it took a lot to get it there and make me feel good about using it hard in remote places.

Brian, got any more pics of the jeep from the front or angled?
Your build and mine are pretty similar as far as some of your more noticible choices. Here's a quick list of what should be here by weeks end:
JE Reel 1350 CV front drive shaft (here)
JE Reel 1350 CV rear drive shaft (here)
Dynatrac ProRock 44 unlimited front axle (4.88)
ARB 35 spline locker
RCV Ultimate axles
Reid Racing knuckles
Dynatrac pro steer ball joints
Dynatrac ProRock 60 rear axle (4.88)
ARB 35 spline locker
Hutchinson Rock Monster Beadlocks-black (here)
37" BFG KM2s
Synergy track bar relocation brackets, welded...both axles.
Synergy HD tie rod
Synergy Sector Shaft brace kit
Synergy HD Draglink w flip kit
Metalcloak HD adjustable track bars...front and rear
Expedition One trail series front bumper (customized)
Expedition One Rubi E-Disco skid
Expedition One trail series rear bumper (awaiting the gen 3 revision to ship these three)
Warn Zeon 10-s Platinum (here)

The lift itself is sort of a frankenlift:
AEV 4.5" RS Tuned Bilstein 5160 reservoir shocks (here)
AEV 4.5" progressive Springs (here)
Clayton long arm kit custom made with MetalCloak DF joints
Clayton HD crossmember, welded in.
Clayton trans/oil skid...might do the other two as well.
Clayton LCA skids

Probably going to look a lot like your rig from the front!
As far as the weight issue, it seems like the general consensus is that issues regarding payload are directly addressed with upgraded suspension components, lower gearing and axle/axle end reinforcement or upgrades? If so, than I'm going to call it a day and say no worries...

 

[Coby65]

With all the armor and various accessories that can be put on the JKU it's no wonder Currie came out with the Dana70 Rock Jock.

 

[Vinman]

Wow, sure are some havy rigs here.
I expect my LJ Rubicon with JK 44's, 35" MTR's and an LS swap to come in under 4,400 lbs.

 

[brianjwilson]

Yeah, click on the "sold" link in the signature. Tons of pics there.
FYI, you may have clearance issues with the synergy sector shaft brace and the metalcloak track bar. Maybe not too. But the synergy bar is bent specifically for more clearance at the frame end. Just FYI.

Looks like a fun build. Yes it seems everyone is just beefing up suspension and drivetrain (brakes are a good consideration too) and dealing with it. The frame seems plenty stiff and strong.