Skunkworks Grand Canyon WK

[Scott Brady]

While at the Easter Jeep Safari, I had the opportunity to drive and test the "Grand Canyon" Skunkworks WK Grand Cherokee on a few trails, including Kane Creek and Fins and Things. Honestly, the WK had never even raised an eyebrow for me before this test, and it was impressive to see the performance of the platform with a few sensible modifications. I even found myself searching Autotrader for used 3.0 CRD models - just for a moment. . .

FULL ARTICLE HERE:

 

[Scott Brady]

I would be curious if anyone else on ExPo has a WK with the Superlift suspension fitted. Anyone? Thoughts and impressions?

 

[modelbuilder]

I have a WK with a budget boost (half of the superlift) and the V8. I have driven a superlifted WK as well. I love it. It will def. be my next rig when I trade up in a few years.

Here is a similar super lifted WK in action...Quadra Drive II in action...pretty much fully automatic lockers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlaHUN8j_dM

Here is my WK on a trail run a few months ago...

From my blog....

 

[getlost4x4]

i have not driven the superlift kit.

i have used a budget kit and it was alright.

i upgraded to the OME kit and it was awesome. it rode very well and was much better off road. i actually got about 3 inches of lift with my OEM kit. the spring rates are perfect for off-road and on.

 

[Scott Brady]

Great image

 

[modelbuilder]

Great image

Thanks!

Put it on the front page? =)



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[KSJeep]

I'm running a 05 WK and it's a really great platform even with just the 2" lift and larger tires. I could only imagine the Superlift would be that much better.

 

[zigsrig]

Scott,
I just went up from the 2.25" puck style lift to the Superlift on my Grand. It is perfect IMO.

If you want some more info on CRD Grands, and learn some more about outfitting one, Talk to Russ at 4xGuard.

Here is his CRD Grand from EJS:

He makes the armor of choice for grand cherokee's (Its what they used on the skunkworks Jeep).

Gobi now makes a rack for it (here is mine before the superlift):

A very cool and capable rig to outfit!

 

[BIGdaddy]

very cool. I like the WK with a few choice bits and pieces. I drove one for about a week while up in Napa for a wedding. Very nice rig to blast around town in, and very comfy on the highway.

We were running late to the wedding and as such I had to rally the Grand on a few gravel roads. Got a thumbs up from me!

-B

 

[Ryanmb21]

Very cool article and photos! This would make an interesting comparison with a late model 4runner with similar mods and size tires. Vehicle looks great with those mods. Scott, how would compare the the superlift suspension on the Jeep to a 4runner with OME?

 

[Scott Brady]

I did spend some time talking with Russ' wife at EJS. They had done a nice job on many of the products.

I liked this front skid in particular. Powdercoat it black - done.

The front bumper on the other hand - not a fan, design wise.

Rear tow hook/slider was bomber.

Just powdercoat that rear skid too.

 

[realdeal]

Freaking awesome...

 

[modelbuilder]

That was a fun day =)

 

[haven]

I'm happy to see a project like the Grand Canyon get thumbs up from forum members. :victory:

There's a place in ExPo for vehicles capable of moderate off-road escapades, and that still can serve as daily drivers. Not all of us want to roll to the supermarket in a vehicle that looks like a Rally-Raid competition truck.

In this spirit, I think I'd equip the Grand Canyon with A/T tires.

Here's an example of the diesel Grand Cherokee Scott was thinking about (no doubt he was thinking "ExPo White")
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=u&car_id=280452737
2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
3.0L diesel engine, 5 speed automatic trans, 4x4
red exterior, grey leather interior
20K miles, $25,000
This vehicle cost about $45K new.

The Grand Cherokee diesel had a 36 month, 36,000 mile warranty. So it might make sense to look for a low mileage 2008 model like this one

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=p&car_id=280232228
2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
3.0L diesel engine, 5 speed auto trans, 4x4
light grey exterior, grey leather interior
16,200 miles, $31,900

 

[modelbuilder]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlaHUN8j_dM

Not Moderate!!!


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