Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
Yes, 1.5" Spidertrax
Do you have wheel spacers?
2010 Jeep WK Grand Cherokee Limited Build
- Thread starter Bubblegoose1
- Start date
bringbackpluto
Observer
Loved this thread, just read all of it while I'm debating what light-duty overland vehicle to go with. Considering the WK Jeep, the Commander, and some other SUV's like the 2005-2012 Pathfinder and maybe even a Hummer H3. Did you consider any other SUV's before choosing the WK?
Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
Thank you!!
I considered 4Runners of various model years. I found Commanders to be uncomfortable and sort of sterile-feeling inside. I am personally not a Nissan fan.
WK won because:
Comfort
Hemi!!
Classy rig
Unique
Able to easily flat-tow behind my camper.
bringbackpluto
Observer
Good points! I'm having a hard time finding a 2009/2010 WK GC. I had heard the 2009+ Hemi is more reliable which is why I was leaning towards an '09 or '10. I passed up on a 2011 WK2 GC a few weeks back that I am really regretting, mostly because of all the creature comforts it has
Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
You are correct. You want the newer VVT Hemi, mid 2009 to 2010. Much less reliability concerns and more powerful motor. I searched for 6 months to find a low mileage, untouched/non-abused 2010. With high flow exhaust, true cold air intake, and Diablosport tuner, I am near 400 HP and still average 13 to 15 MPG while traveling.
I don't have any experience with the WK2s, but they seem to be nice rigs. I do like the smaller, more aggressive body of the WK though.
leaveyourego
Member
Did you lose room to store an underside spare tire with the Wilco Hitchgate? I know the description indicates there needs to be 4.5" of space behind the receiver. I'm thinking of getting one, but my aim would be to add a second spare.
Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
Took a few pics for you. I had previously ground/cut the backside of the hitch receiver to accommodate my 32" spare underneath. So I gave you a measurement from the factory weld point as well: 3.5" of Wilco tube exposed through hitch receiver. This is with the Wilco pinned through the 2nd Hole, closest to the tailgate.
leaveyourego
Member
Awesome, that's perfect. Thanks for the effort. I see this as a way to get the second spare I'd like tucked away, but it's gonna involve buying the hitch and a receiver. These numbers will help me make the call on this. Great build!
Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
Looked at the diesels initially. Too many issues with them. I'll take my reliable high HP VVT HEMI anyday.Only thing that would make this perfect would have been a diesel engine....
SSF556
SE Expedition Society
Looked at the diesels initially. Too many issues with them. I'll take my reliable high HP VVT HEMI anyday.
Issues? Like 24-25 MPG fully loaded and over 400 torque? 110,000 miles on my diesel and no issues...knock on wood!
Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
Bubblegoose1
@PNWINFERNOPRO
There is no advantage to a diesel over a gas motor in a non-towing or non heavy load carrying rig. At the National Average of $.70/gallon more for diesel, MPG is a wash. So there is just a suspect 2000s Jeep diesel engine, with known problems.