M.O.R.E. Skid Plate Install

Modification Decisions

When I first bought my Jeep Wrangler, I didn't know where to start with the modifications. Many wise Jeepers told me I should start with recovery. So my first modification was a new Front Bumper and the necessary recovery tools.

I also needed to take into consideration how I was going to use my Jeep. Once I figured that out, I was able to make the right choices for me. My Jeep is my daily driver and I take her off-roading.

My Jeep off-road. 

As I upped my off-roading game hitting more difficult and rockier trails I realized I needed to protect the underbelly of my Jeep. I decided to start with the Engine Skid plate. There is just a crossmember bar near the engine and that just isn't enough protection.  

Factory Jeep underbody protection.

I decided to go with the M.O.R.E. Oil pan and Engine Skid plate. 

My Jeep on ramps. 

I enlisted the help of a friend with this installation. Luckily he is a wrencher and owns every tool known to man. 

Install Steps 

My crossmember bar scrapped from the rocks

First, we removed my banged-up, scraped-up cross member bar.

Removing bolts under the Jeep

We needed to loosen the motor mount bolts. This was the toughest part of the whole installation. They are hard to get at, and they are very tough to loosen. Fortunately, he had an impact drill. 

Dirk working under my Jeep

I panicked a little when we had trouble with one of the bolts. The thread was messed up a little. But Dirk to the rescue, no problem, he broke out his bolt re-threader kit and WAH-LAH -- good to go. 

Derek using his bolt threader tool. 

Derek shortening the bolt. 

Once that was fixed it was time to drill one hole, then insert in all the bolts and tighten. But wait... One of the bolts was a little too long, so we had to cut some off. We just needed to shorten one of the bolts and good to go! 

With the right tools and muscle power, this install is pretty simple and easy. Now my Jeep is ready for some more difficult trails. 

My new skid plate installed. 

If you bought or decide to buy this beefy skid plate check out the paper instruction guide 👉 Read Instructions Here

                       

Jeep Secrets Revealed

Hidden Gems in My Jeep Wrangler

As a Jeep Wrangler owner, discovering my vehicle’s clever hidden features has always brought extra joy to my off-roading adventures. Let me share some of my favorite hidden Jeep gems that enhance both functionality and fun!

Secret Center-Console Storage

My Jeep exploration began when I discovered hidden storage under my Rubicon’s center-console lid, perfect for pens, tire gauges, and small flashlights. It’s practical and keeps items neatly organized.

Underneath Center Console Lid

Jeep Easter Eggs

Jeep loves hiding Easter eggs—small symbols referencing Jeep history and off-roading culture. Some iconic spots:

• Windshield corners: Tiny Willys Jeep climbing a rocky trail.

• Fuel-door hinges: Hidden seven-slot grille logos.

• Seat-belt stitching: Miniature Jeep silhouette.

• Floor mats and storage compartments: Coordinates of famous trails like Moab’s Hell’s Revenge.

Discovering these Easter eggs connects Jeepers through shared appreciation for Jeep’s heritage.

Who would have thought that Jeep Easter Eggs would gain such immense popularity? About two years after my post on Jeep Easter Eggs, the trend really took off. Searching for Jeep Easter Eggs

Built-in Dog Bowl

Ever noticed your cup holder? Remove the liner, and instantly transform it into a handy dog water dish—perfect for adventures with your furry friends.

Hidden Seven Slot Grille

Jeep designers truly embrace the iconic seven-slot grille design, and they echoed this theme in the detailing. Look closely, and you'll find the seven-slot motif cleverly incorporated into the design of the top vent near the hood, a subtle nod to the Jeep's heritage.

7 Slot Grille on Cowl

Door Latch Bottle Opener

Wrangler doors feature silver latches that double as bottle openers—ideal for tailgating or campfire breaks.

Door latch as a bottle opener

Extendable Sun Visors

Wrangler visors conveniently slide out, blocking sun near the rearview mirror or along side windows, ensuring comfortable drives on sunny days.

Adjustable sunvisors

Floor Drain Plugs

Mud and dirt are unavoidable on Jeep trails. Thankfully, Wrangler models have removable floor drain plugs for easy cleanup after muddy adventures.

Watch More Jeep Tips

For more Jeep discoveries, Jeeps Tips and Tricks  and how-to videos, subscribe to my JeepMomma YouTube channel and join our community!

❓ Jeep Hidden Gems FAQ

Q: What exactly are Jeep Easter Eggs? A: Fun, hidden designs or symbols Jeep places in vehicles, celebrating Jeep culture and off-road adventures.

Q: Where are common places to find Jeep Easter Eggs? A: Windshield edges, fuel doors, cowl vents, glove boxes, floor mats, and even seat belts!

Q: Do all Jeeps have Easter Eggs? A: Most newer models like Wranglers, Gladiators, and Renegades have them, varying by year and trim.

Q: What’s your favorite hidden Jeep feature? A: Definitely the hidden coordinates of iconic trails—it’s like Jeep’s way of encouraging adventure.

Evap Canister -- Relocate or Fortify?

Choosing the Right Off-Road Modifications for Your Jeep

When I first started off-roading with my Jeep Wrangler, deciding which modifications to prioritize was overwhelming. Through years of experience and many trail adventures, I've learned which upgrades truly matter—especially when tackling rocky terrain. Protecting your Jeep's undercarriage is essential to keeping your vehicle trail-ready and damage-free.

Last Updated: July 2025

Why Undercarriage Protection Matters for Your Jeep

ocky trails put your Jeep's underside at risk. Essential components like the engine, transmission, and differentials are vulnerable without adequate protection. Investing in robust undercarriage armor can prevent costly repairs.

Skid Plates: Essential Protection for Jeep Wranglers

Skid plates are your Jeep’s first line of defense, safeguarding critical com

ponents from rocks and debris. Early in my off-road journey, I installed:

• Engine & Transmission Skid Plate

• Heavy-Duty Differential Covers

• Rear Lower Control Arm Skids

Learn from my experience here: Engine Skid Plate Install 

Protecting the Evap Canister: Necessary or Not?

The evap canister (Evaporative Emission Control canister) is an essential part of your Jeep’s emissions system, but opinions vary on protecting it. I received advice on two popular options:

• Upgrading Factory Evap Canister Skid Plate: Replace the factory skid with a tougher aftermarket version.

• Relocating the Evap Canister: Move it above the rear axle to prevent contact with trail obstacles.

My trusted mechanic at Adams Jeep in Maryland recommended relocation, while other Jeepers suggested simply upgrading the skid plate.

However, after careful consideration—and advice from experienced off-roaders—I chose to leave mine stock.

Evap Canister Skid 

relocation place for evap canister

My Personal Experience:
A Decade Without Evap Canister Issues

After nearly ten years of wheeling—including challenging trails like the Rubicon Trail, Arizona’s rocky trails, and Pennsylvania’s Rausch Creek—I haven't experienced any issues with my evap canister in its original factory location.

My advice? Consider your specific wheeling style before making any modifications. If you're frequently tackling extreme rock crawling trails, relocation or enhanced protection might be beneficial. For moderate to advanced trails, the factory setup often suffices.

Check out my blog post What to Expect When You Lift Your Jeep

What Exactly is an Evap Canister?

The Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) canister captures and stores fuel vapors from your fuel system, preventing harmful emissions. It’s strategically placed near your fuel tank and gradually purges vapors to the engine, reducing environmental impact and ensuring compliance with emissions regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Jeep modifications should I prioritize first?

Prioritize skid plates, including engine, transmission, and differential protection, followed by upgraded tires and recovery gear.

Do I really need to relocate my evap canister?

It depends on your off-road style. Extreme rock crawling may warrant relocation, but most moderate trail driving rarely affects a factory-placed evap canister.

What is the purpose of skid plates?

Skid plates protect vital undercarriage components, preventing costly damage when off-roading, especially on rocky terrain.

Can I install skid plates myself?

Yes, skid plates can typically be installed by anyone with basic mechanical skills and common hand tools, though professional installation is also available if preferred.

What happens if my evap canister gets damaged?

Damage can lead to issues like reduced fuel economy, emissions test failure, and a check engine light. It’s advisable to inspect it regularly.

What’s the benefit of heavy-duty differential covers?

Heavy-duty differential covers provide stronger protection against impacts from rocks and trail debris, reducing the risk of fluid leaks or damage.

By understanding the terrain you frequent and carefully selecting modifications, you’ll ensure your Jeep remains durable and reliable through every adventure.

Disconnected Off Road Adventure

Taking My Jeep Adventure to the Next Level

My Jeep on a tree stump

"Your Jeep Can Handle It!"

Ever had someone tell you your ride can do wonders you've never even dreamed of? Yeah, I get that a lot with my Jeep Rubicon. And guess what? They're absolutely right. This weekend, I decided to put that to the test and headed over to Rausch Creek Off Road Park for some trail action. And oh boy, was it a ride to remember!

Taking My Jeep Wheeling on the Next Level Trails 👉Blue Trails at Rausch Creek

A Rookie Among Pros 

I kicked off my journey bright and early on Friday, itching to tackle the trails by 1pm. Joined forces with the awesome crew from Disconnected Off Road, hailing all the way from New Jersey. Meeting them in person for the first time had me a tad on edge, but there was no need for any of that.

Jeeps in the side mirror

These folks were nothing short of amazing, embracing me and my stock Jeep into their group of lifted beasts. They're Jeep aficionados through and through, and they were keen to show me the ropes. Spoiler alert: my Jeep didn't just survive; it thrived.

Upgrading My Skills on the Blue

We wasted no time and dove straight into the mix, hitting a blue trail and not stopping till we reached the more daunting black and red trails. Nervous? Sure. Excited? Even more so. One of the guys stepped up as my spotter, guiding me through the tricky parts like a pro.

Turns out, all I needed was a bit of confidence. With the right spotter, conquering those rocky trails felt like a breeze. Big shoutout to all the spotters who made my day smooth sailing. Though, I think they deserve a medal for "Surviving Wheeling with Jeep Momma" for putting up with my cautious driving style.

More Than Just Driving - An Off-Roading Experience

This adventure was far from just sitting behind the wheel. It was a full-on immersive experience. I became a spectator on the Black and Red trails. Watching those lifted Jeeps tackle steep rocky terrains up close was nothing short of thrilling. At one point, we even had to winch a Jeep over a particularly stubborn rock - a testament to the fact that off-roading is as much about teamwork and strategy as it is about driving.

Jeep being winched up an obstable

Jeeps on a rocky obstacle

Jeepers watching a Jeep on the obstacle

Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Adventure

Hanging out with Disconnected Off Road was on of many highlights that weekend. They're a fantastic bunch, always ready to welcome another Jeeper into the fold. The weekend wasn't just about pushing my Jeep to its limits; it was about discovering a whole new level of adventure and camaraderie. Here's to many more thrilling rides and unforgettable memories on the trails!  

              

My Wild Ride at Women's Wheeling Day

 🚙💨 The Day I Got to Drive a Monster Jeep!

The 2015 Women's Wheeling Day was off the charts, with over 100 fierce ladies signing up to take on the trails in Jeeps. Picture this: me, getting the keys to the Clayton Off Road Jeep. Yes, the beastly, red, lifted Jeep! It's like winning the lottery for a Jeep enthusiast – we're talking a 4.5 inch lift, 37 inch tires, and all the trimmings. You bet I was on cloud nine!

Watch Here 👉 Jeep Momma Drives the Clayton Off-Road Jeep

Jeep Momma driving the Clayton's Jeep 

The Clayton Jeep Crew

🤔 A Slight Letdown... But Not for Long!

So, there we were, lining up our Jeeps, buzzing with excitement, when I found out the Clayton Jeep was assigned guide duties on the beginner trails. A tad disappointing, sure, because I was itching to tackle some serious rocks. But hey, driving this behemoth on any trail was still a thrill!

Clayton Off-road Jeep

Driving shifts were shared among us three lucky ladies, with Clayton Walters himself (the wizard behind Clayton Off Road) coaching from the backseat. Despite only having driven my stock Rubicon before, which is basically a baby toy compared to this monster, I tried not to baby the Clayton Jeep too much on the easy trails. Clayton, a saint of patience, endured our newbie antics, guided us, and even laughed off my "Jeep Momma" moments.

Selfie in the passenger seat

😂 Goofy Moments and Learning Curves

Yes, I was that person asking if the tires were straight a million times, wondering about the tires under the hood latches, and fumbling with the CB radio. But Clayton? Cool as a cucumber, a true champ at handling our learning curves and endless questions with grace.

Clayton Walters 

🚀 My First Dive into Serious Rock Crawling

Jeep Momma's First Difficult Trail

Outer Limits in Claytons Jeep

Jeep Momma on Outer Limits

Then came the moment of truth – Clayton guiding me on my first hardcore rock crawling adventure. The trail, known as Outer Limits, looked more like a rocky cliff than a path. My heart was racing, fearing I'd accidentally run over Clayton. But after a quick reshuffle, with him safely out of my potential crash path, I got down to business. You can catch this adrenaline-pumping moment on my YouTube channel – it's a hoot!

Jeep Momma in Claytons Jeep 👉 Outer Limits Trail

Despite the initial hiccup of being on the easier trails, Clayton found us a challenging path, giving us a taste of real off-roading excitement. The experience was so exhilarating that one of the guys actually kissed the ground after surviving the trail.

Jeep Momma in the driver's seat

🌟 Closing Thoughts: Grateful but Hungry for More

Even though we didn't spend all day on the hardcore trails, I'm beyond thankful for the experience. Driving the Clayton Jeep, sharing laughs, and learning from one of the off-roading rock stars was a blast. It's tough thinking about going back to my standard Rubicon after this. I'm already dreaming about lifts and bigger tires for my own ride. Maybe not exactly a 4.5 lift and 37's... but who knows? The sky's the limit now!

Check out my other Jeep Adventures! 

Selfie with Clayton's Jeep

Properly Putting Down Your Jeep Soft Top

Mastering the Perfect Jeep “W”

Going topless is one of the best parts of owning a Jeep Wrangler, offering unparalleled freedom and adventure. However, properly folding your soft top is critical to extending its lifespan. After years of enjoying open-air Jeep rides and traveling across the U.S., I've learned exactly how to fold a soft top correctly—protecting the fabric, hardware, and ensuring smooth functionality.

Last Updated: July 2025

The Perfect Jeep W

Jeep Soft Top Positions Explained

Your Jeep Wrangler soft top has two primary positions:

• Sunrider Position: Soft top partially open, folded back just above the passenger seats. Ideal for quick, open-air driving.

• Fully Open Position: Soft top fully folded down, resting neatly along the Jeep’s tailgate.

Properly folding your soft top into either position ensures it remains damage-free and functional.

What is the Jeep “W” and Why is it Important?

The Jeep "W" refers to the correct method of folding back your Jeep’s soft top, ensuring fabric longevity and proper alignment of the hardware. When folded correctly, your soft top should form a clear "W" shape in the Sunrider position.

Watch the demonstration here: The Jeep "W" 

Common Jeep Soft Top Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Folding of the Soft Top Arms

Incorrectly folded tops (arms pointing upwards or sideways) risk damaging hinges, fabric, and support structures. Arms should always lie parallel and flat along the Jeep’s body.

2. Fabric Bunching in the Sunrider Position

When folding your soft top into the Sunrider position, always pull and smooth the fabric out from between the support bars. Bunched or pinched fabric can cause premature wear, tearing, or damage to the soft top structure.

The Wrong Way

Step-by-Step: Correctly Folding Your Jeep Soft Top into the Jeep “W”

1. Release Header Latches: Unclip and release the latches at the windshield.

2. Lift and Fold Back Carefully: Gently fold the soft top toward the rear, stopping just above the passenger seats.

3. Smooth Fabric: Make sure the fabric isn’t pinched or bunched. It should form a smooth “W” shape between the support bars.

4. Secure Soft Top Arms: Ensure the arms and bows rest parallel to the Jeep’s body.

5. Final Check: Confirm fabric is clear, smooth, and not under tension.

The Soft top all the way down

Jeep Momma putting her top down

Soft Top Care & Maintenance Essentials

Your soft top is your protection against weather and elements. Keep it in great shape with these quick care tips:

• Regularly clean with products designed specifically for soft tops.

• Apply UV protectant to prevent fading, cracking, and deterioration (e.g., Bestop Soft Top Protectant).

• Use zipper lubricant regularly to maintain zipper functionality and prevent jams (e.g., Jeep Soft Top Zipper Lubricant).

For more tips, see my detailed guide: Soft Top and Zipper Care tips.

Bestop Soft Top Protectant

Jeep Soft Top Zipper Lubricant 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Jeep W?
The Jeep W is the correct method of folding the Jeep Wrangler soft top into the Sunrider position, ensuring proper fabric care and avoiding structural damage.

Why is correct soft top folding important?
Correct folding prevents fabric damage, hardware bending, and premature wear, significantly prolonging the soft top’s lifespan.

Can I fold my Jeep soft top by myself?
Yes, putting your Jeep soft top into the Sunrider position is a one-person task, but fully opening it is easier with two people to prevent damage.

What’s the difference between Sunrider and fully open positions?
The Sunrider position is partially open (front area), while fully open means the soft top rests completely down along the tailgate.

How often should I maintain my Jeep’s soft top?
Regularly inspect your soft top, clean it monthly, and apply protective treatments quarterly to keep it in great shape.

What happens if I fold my Jeep soft top incorrectly?
Incorrect folding can lead to permanent creases, tears, broken hardware, and leaks, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.

Properly folding and maintaining your Jeep Wrangler’s soft top ensures you'll enjoy years of safe, hassle-free open-air adventures.

Jeep Momma contains Amazon affiliate links. I receive commissions for purchases made through those links, at no cost to you. I recommend products and services because I think they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something.

Introduction to Off-Road Adventures

Monthly Guided Trail Ride 

Off-roading is an exciting way to explore and feel free. If you've got a Jeep Wrangler, you know that the call of adventure is something you just can't ignore. The place where my love for off-roading began and grew was Rausch Creek Off Road Park in Pennsylvania. It's 3,000 acres of off-roading fun for all skill levels. It's not just a place to visit, it's a must-do for anyone who loves off-roading.

For newcomers in the off-road community, exploring new trails can be a bit scary especially if you haven't found friends to wheel with. Rausch Creek gave me that chance to explore and meet new Jeep friends with guided trail rides. They offered expert guidance, a safe space to learn, and a chance to meet other off-roaders. 

Selfie on the trails

The Benefit of Guided Trail Rides for New Jeepers

The guided rides are an opportunity to learn from an experienced off-roader who knows the trails. The guided ride served as a practical classroom, where every turn teaches a lesson and every obstacle offers a chance to grow. As a new Jeeper, the guided ride boosted my confidence, and deepen my appreciation for the off-roading culture. It was a chance to meet other off-roaders with the same passion.  

My Jeep

My Guided Adventure at Rausch Creek

My first guided trail ride at Rausch Creek, I joined a group of like-minded Jeepers for a day on the green trails. The experience was nothing short of exhilarating. As we navigated through a kaleidoscope of terrains—from muddy water holes and rocky roads to rutted paths and steep inclines—I felt the adrenaline rush that comes with conquering each new challenge. It was a day of firsts for me, tackling trails and obstacles I had previously bypassed, including a daring attempt at the notorious big rock obstacle. Although my four-door's longer wheelbase meant I couldn't go over the rock, the attempt itself was a thrill.

👉 My Jeep Climbing Up a Rock Obstacle

Jeep Momma climbing a rock obstacle

The Joy of Overcoming: Embracing Every Obstacle

One of the most liberating realizations on this journey was understanding that scrapes on the undercarriage or rock sliders aren't failures; they're badges of honor. They signify that you've pushed your limits and lived to tell the tale. This shift in perspective transformed how I approach obstacles, turning apprehension into anticipation.

Jeep Momma YouTube Video 👉 Fall Guided Ride at Rausch Creek

My Jeep on a hill

A Symphony of Sounds and Sights

The trail isn't just about the challenges; it's about the stories we bring back. From the cacophony of sounds on the trail to the visual spectacle of conquering a water hole,. Each moment is a snapshot of the thrill that defines off-roading. Sharing these experiences with each other during the breaks or even after the day of wheeling at a campfire is just as memorable. 

YouTube Videos 👉 My Noisy Jeep on the Trail

👉 Muddy Water Ride

Grille shot with Jeeps in the background

The Next Adventure Awaits

As I look forward to my next visit to Rausch Creek—especially for the Women's Wheelin' Day—I'm reminded of why I fell in love with off-roading. It's more than just a hobby; it's a journey of discovery, a test of resilience, and most importantly, a celebration of the spirit of adventure that drives us all.

Selfie with a line of Jeeps

          

Jeep Wrangler Noises!

A Guide to Fixing D-Ring Clanging

“Did you hear that?” My mom asked me as we cruised down the street in my Jeep Wrangler. I had just installed a new rear bumper, and at first, I couldn’t pinpoint the noise she was referring to. It turns out it was the d-rings (shackles) clanging against the rear bumper. Once she pointed it out, I started hearing it everywhere—especially when bouncing over speed bumps in my neighborhood. And let me tell you, that clanging noise drove me nuts!

DayStar Isolator kit Collage

Gift Ideas for the Jeeper - Under $100

Identifying the Issue: Clanging D-Rings

If you own a Jeep Wrangler and have installed aftermarket bumpers, you might have noticed the clanging sound coming from your shackles (d-rings) hitting the bumper. It's an all-too-common problem that Jeepers face, especially after installing new parts. These shackles can sometimes rattle against the bumper, creating an annoying and distracting noise that can take away from your off-road adventures or even just a casual drive around the neighborhood.

As Jeep owners, we love our vehicles' ruggedness and the sound of the trail, but we don’t want unnecessary noise that can drive us crazy.

The Solution: Daystar D-Ring Isolator Kit

I wanted to solve this problem once and for all, so I went looking for a product that would quiet those noisy shackles. That's when I came across the Daystar Isolator Kit.  This kit promises to eliminate rattling by cushioning the shackles, and it also helps protect the finish of your bumper from wear and tear caused by metal-on-metal contact.

Product Features:

• Material: The isolator kit is made of durable polyurethane, designed to withstand the elements and the wear-and-tear of off-roading.

• Noise Reduction: The isolators are engineered to prevent the clanging sound caused by shackles rattling against the bumper, ensuring a quieter ride.

• Protection: It also protects your bumper's finish from scratches or dents that could be caused by the shackles.

• Easy Installation: The kit includes a black isolator and two washers that easily snap onto the d-ring and slip between the recovery point and the shackle, making installation straightforward and quick.

Isolator Kit 

Step-by-Step Installation: How I Did It

Installing the Daystar D-Ring Isolator Kit is a breeze. Here's a quick breakdown of how I did it:

1. Step 1: Remove the d-rings (shackles) from the rear bumper.

2. Step 2: Place the rubber isolator onto the d-ring. The isolator fits snugly onto the shackle, providing a cushioned layer to reduce rattling.

3. Step 3: Slip the rubber washers between the recovery point and the shackle to further prevent metal-on-metal contact.

4. Step 4: Reinstall the d-rings with the isolator and washers in place.

It’s a quick and easy installation that you can do yourself with minimal tools—no need for professional help unless you're more comfortable with it.

Jeep Momma Installing the Isolator Kit

Putting It to the Test: Results After Installation

Once the isolators were installed, it was time to take my Jeep Wrangler out for a test drive. I drove through my neighborhood, intentionally cruising over several speed bumps, hoping to hear that familiar clanging noise. To my relief, the noise was gone. The isolators did exactly what they were designed to do—prevent the shackles from rattling against the bumper.

With the top down, I was able to listen closely for any remaining noises. There was no clanging at all. It was like night and day compared to before. The Daystar D-Ring Isolator Kit worked as advertised, and I could finally enjoy a quieter ride without that annoying distraction.

Why You Should Consider This Fix

If you’re dealing with the same rattling noise from your shackles or looking for an easy way to improve the driving experience in your Jeep, the Daystar D-Ring Isolator Kit is a solid choice. It’s affordable, effective, and super easy to install. Plus, it provides added protection for your bumper, which is always a win when you’re out on the trails.

Whether you're tackling rough terrain or just cruising around town, this small upgrade can make a big difference in the overall noise level and comfort of your ride.

 AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

Jeep Momma contains Amazon affiliate links. I receive commissions for purchases made through those links, at no cost to you. I recommend products and services because I think they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something.