Barricade Jeep Rock Sliders Install

A Must Modification for Off-Roaders

My new rock sliders

The folks at ExtremeTerrain  sent me a pair of rock sliders -- the Barricade Rock Sliders -- to review.

Jeep Momma holding her new rock sliders

Barricade Off-Road Sliders

Barricade Front Bumper 

Jeep Body Mount Bolt

Step 1 

First step was to remove the factory plastic steps. I broke out the tools I needed and sat down to work. I attached the ratchet to the bolt and began to pull... and pull... and pull... and pull... I even swore a bunch of times. I was bound and determined to do this whole change by myself. I was turning the ratchet the wrong way. I got confused laying "upside down" everything is backwards. I was doing lefty loosy righty tighty the wrong way.

Jeep Momma removing the body mount bolt

Once I had that squared away it was a quick and easy removal.

Jeep Momma removing her factory side steps

Step 2

The removal of the body mount bolts. I took the advice of many online Jeepers and sprayed the body mounts with WD 40.

Jeep Momma's dirty hands

I don't think this actually made a difference for my Jeep. It's pretty new and there wasn't really a whole lot of rust. Actually there wasn't any rust but a lot of dirt and mud. I think this was a trick by everyone. The WD 40 created a muddy greasy mess. Or maybe WD 40 isn't really to help loosen things up but to make things messy just so it looks like you were working hard.

Jeep Momma wrenching on her Jeep

The body mount bolts didn't need a whole lot of muscle, with just a little force and lots of grunting they came loose. However, they kept spinning and spinning and spinning. I couldn't figure out what in the world was going on. So again -- I headed back to my computer. I emailed a fellow Jeeper and texted another. After some good tips I went back out and tried again. 

Jeep body mount bolts

With the use of my ratchet and some channel locks -the first bolt popped out. Those body mount bolts are pretty persnickety. They need a firm but gentle pull and out they come.

Body mount bolts and tools

Step 3 

Now it was time to install the Rock Sliders. 

Jeep Momma installing her new rock sliders

I looked around the garage for something to hold up the heavy steel sliders while I attached them to the Jeep. At the time I didn't have jack stands. These would make for a great investment. 

Check out these Jack Stands

It was quite hard since our garage is mostly made up of soccer balls and bikes. This is were the resourcefulness of a mom comes in handy.

Jeep Momma's new rock sliders

I grabbed the rolled up garden hose I bought a couple of weeks ago and an old paint bucket. I lined up the sliders to the body mounts on the Jeep and started the attachment process. 

Step 4

Before the attaching the body mount bolts and sliders to the Jeep the giant washers needed to be put in the sliders. 

Jeep Momma installing sliders

The body mount washers to drop into the round hole of the attachment point of the slider rail. UGH!! It was millimeters off.  It was suggested I use a hammer. BAM! BAM!

Jeep Momma tapping in the washers

It was more of a gentle tap and they were in. 

Close up of tapping in the washers

Step 5

Lining up the bolts. 

Jeep Momma wrenching

I was able to get the first bolt into place, and it started to tighten. Yeah Me!  It was working. Then came the next bolts.

Jeep Momma lining up the sliders

I slide my legs under the slider, and held it up with all my might and started turning the ratchet again. But then... the spinning and spinning and spinning started to happen again. Thank goodness the kids were still at school because you would have thought a pirate was working in our garage. 

Jeep Momma under her Jeep wrenching 

I double checked I had my rights and lefts correct, but it still was spinning and spinning. I headed into the house to get help . I was informed these kind of bolts in the body mount need weight pulling them down to be able to tighten.

Jeep Momma under her Jeep wrenching

Another new lesson working on my Jeep. 

Tightening up the bolts on the sliders

The rest was pretty simple -- a couple of turns of the ratchet and they were done.

Jeep Momma showing off her new sliders

Turns out this was probably the best modification I made to my Jeep. They have protected my Jeep many times as I slide up over and around rocks. 

For more of my modifications check out my Jeep Modifications and Accessories. 

Jeep Momma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn commissions by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. When you click on and/or make a purchase through a link to an Amazon Affiliate link placed on this website, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

  
 ExtremeTerrain provided the rock sliders for review. No additional compensation received.  All opinions are my own. 

Off-Roading Increase My Self-Esteem

Discovering the Joys of Jeeping

Off-roading in a Jeep is an exhilarating experience that never gets old. Each time I hit the trails, I'm amazed at the things I learn. The endless possibilities of off-roading experiences and Jeep modifications keep the adventure fresh and exciting.

Rausch Creek Off-Road Adventure

Learning and Growing on the Trails

I'm not just learning about my Jeep's capabilities; I'm also learning about mechanical aspects like differentials, gears, tires, suspension, and coils. These lessons have sparked an interest in me that I never knew I had. The interactions with fellow Jeep enthusiasts make the learning process even more enjoyable.

In addition to the technical education, I'm also learning a lot about myself. I'm rediscovering my confidence and realizing that I have natural instincts when it comes to driving in challenging conditions.

My Self-Esteem Grows with each Off-Road Adventure.

Natural Instincts and Confidence

Growing up in the Midwest, I learned to drive in harsh winter conditions, navigating snow-packed roads and icy streets. I believe this experience has contributed to my ability to handle challenging driving situations, but I also think some of us are simply born with a natural instinct for driving in difficult conditions.

Snow Driving Tips 👉Read More

While some drivers never seem to master the art of driving in rain or snow, even after living in the north their whole lives, I've found that off-roading in my Jeep has helped me unlock my innate driving abilities and boosted my confidence in the process.

Confidence in the Snow! 

My 2nd Off Road Adventure

Overwhelming Adventures: A Weekend Recap

Embarking on a journey filled with thrilling stories and exciting adventures, I find myself overwhelmed with so many tales from this past weekend. Let me take you through a series of mini-stories that unfolded during my time away.

Off-Road Consulting Driving Class Jeep Tips 👉 Jeep Tips

Jeep Momma driving selfie

Off-Road Excursion: Advanced Driving Course 201

Yesterday marked my second off-road driving class, Advanced Driving Course 201 at Rausch Creek, just outside Tremont, Pennsylvania. I was eager to hit the road bright and early. Setting my alarm for 5 am, I anticipated the two-and-a-half-hour drive. Yet, my excitement had me wide awake by 4:30 am.

Jeep in my rearview mirror

On the Road to Adventure

As I embarked on the journey, I was greeted by a convoy of Jeeps filling the roads. Each passing Jeep brought a smile to my face, including one that later joined me in the driving course. Interestingly, its occupants were exchange students from overseas, sharing the universal love for Jeeps.

A Day at Rausch Creek

Upon arrival at Rausch Creek, I joined other Jeeps for the 201 course. With the driving instructor, we formed a group of seven. Among them, my 4-door stock Jeep stood out, offering the least clearance among the vehicles. Despite the challenges, we prepared to tackle the trails ahead. There were some intense moments for me. 

Jeep lined up ready for a trail ride

Conquering the Trails

After adjusting tire pressure and gearing up, we ventured onto the greens and blues, the less challenging trails at Rausch Creek. Accompanied by my newfound friend Amanda, an avid Jeep enthusiast, I felt confident navigating through the rocky terrain.

Kyle airing down my tires

The Importance of a Co-Pilot

Amanda's presence as my co-pilot proved invaluable. She skillfully guided me through the obstacles, capturing moments and ensuring our safety throughout the journey. Her unwavering support and the yummy sandwiches she brought along added to the experience.

Amanda and myself

Overcoming Challenges

Navigating through the rocky and muddy trails presented its share of challenges, especially for a relatively inexperienced driver like myself. However, under the guidance of our knowledgeable instructor Kyle, I pushed my Jeep beyond its limits, overcoming obstacles and embracing the adrenaline rush that followed.

Jeep Momma watching a Jeep on an obstacle

Reflecting on the Experience

Despite encountering minor trail damage along the way, the thrill of conquering each obstacle left me craving for more. The intensity of the trails surpassed what photographs and videos could capture, evoking a sense of exhilaration with every bounce and clang.

My Jeep on some rocks

Every time we completed an obstacle I kept wanting more and more. The adrenaline rush you get when you make it through the obstacle is addicting - a good kind of addiction.  And the clanging noises --- and scrapping sounds --- coming from underneath the Jeep --- can scare the Ba-jeezuz our of you.

My Jeep going down a hill

Looking Ahead

As I reminisce about the adventures of the weekend, I'm filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. Little did I know at the time a great adventure and many life changes lie ahead for me. I wouldn't change any of it. The amazing people I have met over the years since this day have been life changing. 

The front of my Jeep

It was a great day and I look forward to more trail riding, Jeep friend making and lots of Jeep transformations and modifications! The best thing was the new friends I made! I can't wait to join them again out on the trails.

A group picture of the Jeeps and their owners

Spray Paint vs. Plasti Dip

Comparison Test

My favorite color is purple and decided to add purple accessories to my black Jeep. I planned on turning the silver D-Rings purple. Before I made it permanent I decided to test the color out on some smaller D-rings to see what it would look like. I decided to compare using spray paint versus plasti-dip. Plasti-dip came highly recommended on the internet. 

My shackle before spraying primer

I started with the spray paint first. 

Dupli-Color Automotive Self-Etching Primer 

A can Valspar Premium Finish Spray Paint  

I sanded down the D-ring, washed it off, let it dry and proceeded to use the self-etching paint. After a couple of coats and letting it dry thoroughly it was ready for the purple paint. 

Spray painting my d-ring

The second D-Ring I used Performix Plastic Dip - purple. This did not take as long. I just hung up the d-ring and sprayed. I used about 4 coats per the suggestion on the can. It was a quick and easy process.

Spraying plasti-dip on my d-ring

So after letting them both dry completely, I put them on my Jeep just to see how the purple would look. Now I know these D-rings are smaller than the ones that came with the my bumper, I was getting a feel how the purple would work. 

I felt the spray painted d-ring had a better more professional look then the plasti dip D-ring. I know the plasti dip can be peeled off and it's right back to silver -- the original look. The plastic dip process was a lot less time consuming. 

Purple d-rings

The plasti dip D-ring also feels sticky and looks like it will get marked up quicker. All in all I like the look of the spray painted D-ring vs the plasti dip D-ring.

For more tips on how to add color to your Jeep check out my Step-by-Step Guide.