Jeep Tire Wear - Diagnostic Tips

Tips on Diagnosing Tire Issues

Tire Wear Issues

The wear on my front drivers side tire was very bad. I assumed it was a bad alignment but it was the wheel bearing. Turns out it’s a common failure for all Jeeps. It was getting so bad it was affecting the ABS system. 

A good way to diagnose what the problem could be...

• Unload the tire - get the weight off the tire by putting the Jeep on a jack stand or jacking it up.
• Then with your hands at the 12 and 6 o’clock position of the tire, push it back and forth
• If there is play in the tire, any movement at all, it’s the wheel bearing or ball joints. 
• When you put your hands at the 3 and 9 o’clock position and do the same thing it’s tie rod ends.

It cost me about $150 for the hub assembly, but I learned something new with this problem. Each set of problems I learn a little more about my Jeep and become more confident. Especially when I am right there when it’s getting fixed. 

This is also a good lesson for those wanting to add upgrades to your Jeep. It will always lead to failures somewhere else on your Jeep so be prepared to empty your pockets. Check out my What to Expect When You Lift Your Jeep for other issues that may arise. 

Jeep's Plastic Fender Restore Product Review

Lithium Trim Serum

Those plastic fenders on the Wranglers are hard to keep looking sharp. The sun's UV rays fade the plastic, and mud tends to stain them. For the past couple of years, I have been looking for a solution to keep them looking factory fresh. 

Jeep Momma's YouTube Video 👉 Fender Mythbusters or read more about Jeep Momma's Fender Mythbusters. 

Discount Code 20% Off JeepMomma20

Before applying the Trim Serum on my fenders. 

Lithium Auto Care reached out to me and asked if I would try their Trim Serum product on my fenders. I have tried peanut butter and erasers, so why not.

After Trim Serum on my fenders. 

Lithium’s Trim serum auto care product says:  Transforms weathered and oxidized trum - rubber and plastic - in seconds. 

Lithium Trim Serum YouTube Video 👉 Jeep Momma Review

Trim Serum on the rear fender of my Jeep

Out of all the products I have used, trim serum immediately makes my plastic fenders look amazing. Trim Serum is designed to penetrate and seal all the rubber & plastic trim surfaces to make them look new again. It also helps keep the rubber and plastic from drying out, cracking, and oxidizing.     

 

Trim Serum applied on my front fender.

How long will it last? 

There is no trim protectant product that will last forever. The question is which one will last the longest. Trim serum from the start made my plastic fenders look brand new. It is supposed to last for several months. The company says about 20 washes. However, as Jeep owners most don’t even wash their Jeep that much in a lifetime. 

Trim Serum can be used on the Jeep's door handles.

I plan on at least washing off my fenders weekly to check on how this product holds up. So far 2 weeks and they still look great. I used Trim Serum on all my plastic Jeep Parts - door handles, mirrors, dash, and the rubi rails.

Use a mircofiber cloth to apply Trim Serum

• Step 1 Wash the surface before applying the trim serum
• Step 2  Apply trim serum to the surface in a circular motion then let it remain on the surface for several minutes then buff dry.
• Step 3 Allow the trim serum to cure for 6 to 12 hours before getting wet.

Additional coats may be needed for severely damaged or faded plastic.

Below are pictures from 2 weeks and then 3 weeks after the first application of the product. At the time, I lived in the high desert of Colorado so it can be very windy and dusty. I needed to wash the fenders so you can see how the Trim Serum is holding up. 

Trim Serum after 2 weeks.

Trim Serum after 3 weeks.

Check out my other product reviews on my Jeep Momma Reviews Page. 

SPONSORED CONTENT DISCLOSURE

Occasionally Jeep Momma partners with brands and PR agencies to review products ono this website and promote them via my social media accounts for which I receive free products and /or compensation. All views and opinions are my own. Please know I only post about products I believe would be helpful and useful. 

Dislcosure

How To Wheel Responsibly

Tips to be a Responsible Off-roader

My Jeep on the Rubicon Trail. 

As responsible off-road enthusiasts, we want to do our best to minimize trail damage. Trail damage is one of the reasons we are getting our trails shut down. Sometimes off roaders may not be aware that certain types of wheeling is damaging our community, our trails and their own Jeeps.

 "How we wheel today affects how we can wheel tomorrow and how are children can wheel in the future."  ~Treadlightly.org

Like I always tell my kids, just because it's on TV or the internet doesn't make it right or true. 

Check out my video on YouTube Wheel Spin Destroys Trails 

There are many ways to destroy the trails and excessive wheel spin is just one. Excessive wheel spin is irresponsible wheeling.  Don’t Spin To Win. Not only does such behavior tear up the trails, but it gives off-roading a bad name that can be used against us when environmentalists and disapproving lawmakers make regulations restricting our activity.

What does Wheel Spin does... 

Wheel spin tears up soft terrain like mud and creates ruts. It also tears up rocks and gravel. Some rocks can be flaky and wheel spin tears up that rock and changes the terrain and eventually that trail will get worn down. This can change a difficult trail to an easy trail. It shoots all that gravel and rock from the tires. This can be very dangerous when people are on the trail watching Jeeps wheel through obstacle.  

The other part of this is excessive wheel spin puts your vehicle in harm’s way and can cause damage to your vehicle. As that rig bounces up in the air with the tires continually spinning… Once it comes down onto the ground it shock loads the suspension. That is not good. That is when axles and driveshafts break.

Wheel spinning: Ordinarily, wheel spinning is the result of one of two things: Driver error or having the wrong equipment. Either one throws rocks or mud on other vehicles or can cause ruts in the trail, making it an unpleasant experience for the next person. If you find yourself in a situation where you are spinning excessively, try another line or turn around.

Tips to Minimize Affects on the Trails

• Travel only in areas open to 4x4 vehicles

• Drive over not around obstacles

• Straddle ruts, gullies and washouts even if wider than Jeep

• Cross Streams only where the road crosses the stream

• When possible avoid mud. 

• In soft terrain go easy on the gas to avoid wheel spin as this can cause rutting.   

Learning to wheel on different terrains is essential to being a good steward of the

 land. 

Overland Adventure Planning & Ideas

Ultimate Guide to Your Next Adventure 

Overlanding has become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore remote destinations and push their limits. Whether you're a seasoned overlander or planning your first trip, proper preparation is key to a successful adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share expert tips for planning your overland trip and highlight some of the best 2-5 day destinations in the United States.

My Jeep overlooking the Sierra Nevadas, CA. 

Essential Tips for Planning Your Overland Trip

1. Choose the Right Vehicle

Selecting an appropriate vehicle is crucial for your overland journey. Consider factors such as:

• Ground clearance
• 4-wheel drive capability
• Fuel efficiency
• Storage capacity
• Reliability

Popular overland vehicles include Jeep Wranglers, Toyota 4Runners, and Land Rovers.

2. Plan Your Route Carefully

Research your intended route thoroughly:

• Use topographic maps and GPS devices
• Check road conditions and seasonal closures
• Identify potential campsites and fuel stops
• Plan for emergency detours

3. Pack Essential Gear

Ensure you have all necessary equipment:

• Recovery gear (winch, traction boards, tow straps)
• First aid kit
• Navigation tools (maps, compass, GPS)
• Communication devices (satellite phone or emergency beacon)
• Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies)

4. Prepare Your Vehicle

Before embarking on your journey:

• Perform a thorough vehicle inspection
• Check and replace fluids if necessary
• Inspect tires and carry a full-size spare
• Install any necessary upgrades (lift kit, skid plates, etc.)

5. Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Respect the environment and preserve nature for future adventurers:

• Pack out all trash
• Use established campsites and trails
• Minimize campfire impact
• Respect wildlife and local regulations

Top 2-5 Day Overland Destinations in the USA

1. Moab, Utah: Off-Road Paradise

Moab is often called the Mecca of off-roading, offering:

• Over 80 4x4 trails ranging from easy to extreme
• Stunning red rock landscapes
• Proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and Deadhorse State Park

Pro Tip: Plan your visit during spring or fall for milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Check out My First Moab Adventure for more insight. 

2. Mojave Road, California: A Journey Through Time

This historic 138-mile trail offers:

• Pristine desert landscapes
• Joshua tree forests
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities

Insider Advice: Allow 2-3 days to fully explore the route and its attractions.

Read more about my first time on Mojave Road. There is also a link to my YouTube video of my second adventure on this trail. 

3. Rubicon Trail, California: The Ultimate 4x4 Challenge

Known for its ruggedness, the Rubicon Trail features:

• Challenging rock crawling sections
• Breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains
• Rich off-roading history

Safety Tip: This trail requires extensive preparation and experience. Consider joining a guided group for your first attempt.

Check out the story of My Rubicon Trail dream come true adventure. 

4. Colorado Mountain Passes: High-Altitude Adventure

Explore multiple scenic passes within hours of each other:

• Black Bear Pass: Infamous for its steep switchbacks and views of Telluride
• Engineer Pass: Part of the Alpine Loop with stunning mountain vistas

You can get a glimpse of the shelf roads of Engineer pass in my video on YouTube. 

Weather Alert: Many high-altitude passes are only open for a few weeks in late summer and early fall.

5. Northern Rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona: Remote Wilderness

Experience some of the most isolated terrain in the United States:

• Spectacular views of the Grand Canyon
• Diverse ecosystems from desert to pine forests
• Opportunities for true backcountry camping

Check out more about this amazing Overland Adventure in Arizona. 

Planning Essential: Fuel stations are scarce, so carry extra fuel and supplies.

By following these tips and exploring these incredible destinations, you'll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable overland adventure. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect the environment, and embrace the journey as much as the destination. Happy trails!

6. Hole in the Rock Trail, Utah

This trail isn't to be taken lightly, and needs a lot of preparation and research.

• in a remote region of Southern, Utah
• Jeep Badge of Honor Trail
• Same route the Mormons took

Check out more about this My Hole in the Rock Adventure 

Planning Essential: Fuel stations are scarce, so carry extra fuel and supplies.

Why Colby Valve is a Must-Have for Off-Roaders

Colby Valve Review: The Best Emergency Tire Valve for Off-Road Recovery

Colby Valve Emergency Tire Valve System

When you're off-roading, your tires take a beating. A popped bead or torn valve stem can leave you stranded in the middle of a trail. That’s where the Colby Valve comes in—a game-changer for emergency tire repairs.

I learned this the hard way during one of my adventures. Now, I never hit the trails without a Colby Valve in my recovery kit—and here’s why you shouldn’t either.

Exclusive Jeep Momma Discount Code
Get your own Colby Valve at www.ColbyValve.com
Use code: JEEPMOMMA for a discount!

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My Trail Mishap: The Lesson I Learned the Hard Way

Trying to repair my popped bead. 

During my Fall 2019 adventure on the Homecourt Trail in Kingman, Arizona, I tore a valve stem while crawling up a rock. My tire went flat, popping the bead in a precarious spot.

The Problem:

• My Jeep was stuck on the rocks with a flat tire.
• The position made a traditional tire change dangerous.
• A torn valve stem meant I couldn’t just air up and go.

Luckily, a fellow Jeeper had a Colby Valve, which saved the day.

Off-road mishap when I popped my bead of my tire

Watch my real-time trail repair:
⏩ See how I fixed my torn valv stem at about tht 22 minute mark of this video 

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What is the Colby Valve, and How Does It Work?

A Colby Valve is an emergency tire valve replacement that lets you fix a broken valve stem without removing the tire from the wheel. Unlike traditional valve stems, which require dismounting the tire, the Colby Valve installs in seconds.

Why It’s a Game-Changer:

✔ No need to remove the tire – Just screw it in and air up.
✔ Durable brass construction – Stronger than standard rubber valve stems.
✔ Reusability – You can remove and reinstall it as needed.

✔ Works with all off-road tire pressures – No need to worry about leaks.

Quick Install Steps:

1️⃣ Remove the damaged valve stem.
2️⃣ Screw in the Colby Valve by hand.
3️⃣ Tighten with a socket wrench (12-16 ft-lbs torque).
4️⃣ Air up your tire and hit the trail!

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Why Tire Placement Matters: Avoiding Valve Stem Damage

Wheeling in Arizona - Homecourt Trail.

Since tearing my first valve stem, I’ve learned that watching your tire placement is critical when rock crawling.

Pro Tip: Adjust your side mirrors downward so you can see your rear tires. This helps prevent valve stem damage when navigating rocks.

Use your mirrors to watch your rear tires.

My Experience:

Three valve stem mishaps over the years.
Installed Colby Valve Permanent Stems after my Rubicon Trail trip.
Learned the importance of torquing valve stems properly—don't overtighten!

Replacing my valve stems with Colby Valves. 

Adding the Colby Valve to my tires. 

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Colby Valve Permanent vs. Emergency: Which One is Right for You?

Colby makes two main types of valve stems:

🔹 Emergency Colby Valve – Great for quick trail repairs. Keep one in your recovery kit!
🔹 Permanent Colby Valve – A long-term solution that’s stronger than OEM valve stems.

Ultimate Tire Valve System

My Setup: After tearing another valve stem on the Rubicon Trail, I upgraded to Colby Permanent Valve Stems when I got back to Colorado.

Should You Get the Ultimate Extra Short Version?

If you do a lot of rock crawling, the Ultimate Valve (Extra Short) might be a better option—it’s designed to be less exposed to rock damage. I’m now considering switching to these.

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Final Thoughts: Is Colby Valve Worth It?

Absolutely! The Colby Valve has saved me multiple times on the trail, and now I won’t wheel without one in my recovery kit. If you’re an off-roader, overlander, or even just an everyday Jeeper, this is a must-have piece of gear.

 Check out my Product Review Page

 Best Off-Road Recovery Gear You Need

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Have You Ever Torn a Valve Stem on the Trail?

Drop a comment below! Let’s share our off-road lessons and keep each other prepared.

Wheeling the Rubicon Trail

Rubicon Trail Dream Achieved

Six years ago. I discovered the Rubicon Trail from videos on YouTube. I had no idea there was even such a trail. It looked amazing and difficult. A fellow Jeeper told me, with practice, one day I would be able to wheel the trail. 

The time was finally here, my chance to take my Jeep off-road on the Rubicon Trail. Not only was I going to get to wheel the Rubicon Trail, I was going to get to do it with my two sons.

 

Ben & I on the way to the Rubicon Trail. 

Rubicon Trail YouTube Videos 👉 Day One

👉 Day Two

👉 Day Three

👉 Day Four

👉 Day Five

Family Time

I picked my kids up at the Denver airport on Thursday night and Friday morning we were off to the Rubicon Trail.  We took our time getting from Colorado to California where we were meeting the rest of the Jeep crew that were going to wheel the Rubicon Trail with us. 

Primitive Camping with my boys

Spending time on the road with my kids was amazing. I was able to show them the amazing beauty of the west. The first night we found dispersed camping in the Manti-La Sal National Forest. 

Selfie with my kids camping. 

Their first experience at dispersed camping. They liked the fact we were the only ones for miles and out in the middle of nowhere with just nature. 

Making Awesome Memories 

It was a great time and an awesome memory. We took a little hike just me and my kids then came back and Michael got the fire started. Then we ate dinner and hung around the campfire. A moment in my life I will cherish forever.  

On the Road to the Rubicon Trail

Those three days on the road with my boys are ones I will never forget. Jeeping across the West showing them the amazing remote beauty. 

Crossing the Colorado River. 

 

One of the most amazing parts were the views along Highway 95 in Utah between Blanding, Utah and Hanksville, Utah. It's one of America's Scenic By-ways. The views were absolutely breathtaking.  

We pulled into South Lake Tahoe Sunday afternoon and meet the fellow Jeepers at the hotel. That ride into South Lake Tahoe coming over the mountain and seeing the lake was spectacular and scary. I created a traffic jam because I was so freaked out at the heights. I wish I had pictures but I couldn't take my hands off the wheel and Ben was secretly recording me freaking out. 

Selfie at the entrance to the Rubicon Trail. It's a Jeep Thing! 

Surreal Moment

The next morning it was off to the Rubicon Trail. It started with Ben, my youngest son,

asking me, "Why are you so excited for being on the Rubicon Trail?" Ben said, "It's fun but why are you so excited?" Unless you are an off roader it can be hard to understand the excitement.  

IT'S A JEEP THING, YOU WOULDN'T UNDERSTAND!

Our first camping spot on the Rubicon Trail. 

We set up camp that first night on top of the obstacle Whale Bones. My boys, Dixie our dog, and I in the tent. Michael eventually slept in my Jeep. 

One of the Rubicon Obstacles. 

I made it up the obstacle with no winching, however my winch was put to good use getting some of the other Jeeps up the rocky incline. Thanks to Quadratec for my winch. I was selected to be the proud owner of the new winch during a giveaway at a Women's Wheeling Event I attended at Rausch Creek in 2019. 

A pit stop on the Rubicon Trail. 

. 

We left Whale Bones that morning with our bellies full. Angela brought breakfast burritos for all. The first half of the Rubicon Trail is through the Loon Lake interior and is mild to moderate. We were making pretty good time

My Jeep posing on the Rubicon Trail. 

To wheel the Rubicon Trail was a dream of mine from the moment I discovered it. That was back in 2014, and I never in a million years thought I would have the skills to tackle this iconic trail.

Buck Island Camp spot. 

We finally made it to Buck Island Lake and found some really amazing campsites. It was a needed break for everyone.

Buck Island Lake. 

 The lake cooled off some.

Rock Firepit at Buck Island camp spot. 

Other enjoyed the fireside chats. 

Ben exploring the rocks. 

Ben even did a little exploring. 

Buck Island Lake. 

Our last day on the iconic 4x4 trail. Early that morning we left the coolest camping spot on Buck Island Lake.

My Jeep crawling over the obstacles. 

Leaving the area was a sign of what was to come on the trail. The most difficult obstacles were ahead.  Big Sluice, Saw Toot, Scout Hole, Squeeze Rock and Cadillac Hill. ;

Overlooking part of the Sierra Nevadas. 

There were some very intense moments for all of us. It was an amazing day for me as I traversed a lot of those obstacles on my own. I have come such a long ways from those first days at Rausch Creek Off Road Park in Pennsylvania.    

The Steel Bridge

It was so cool to see those places you always would hear about. 

Rubicon Springs

Rubicon Springs

Some took a swim in the frigid waters. My boys and I opted not too. 

Part of the crew waiting for the rest

The trip up Cadillac Hill to Observation Hill was intense. It was just me and my boys. They were awesome giving me the courage I needed to keep moving forward. Once off the trail we found a place to eat. It was nice to all be together to celebrate our accomplishment. 

Tips: Places to Take Your Jeep

Jeeps can Go Anywhere, Do Anything!

I have videos of all the places I have wheeled my Jeep on my YouTube Channel "Jeep Life with Jeep Momma". There are some videos that always seem to get those negative comments “That’s Not a Real Trail”. That doesn't matter because you do what you enjoy. You can still see some amazing things on those Not a trail places. Check out my YouTube video Where to Wheel Your Jeep

On the trails in the Mojave Desert

Off-road trails don't always have to be extreme with difficult rock obstacles on it to be a trail. It is completely okay if you only like to wheel those easy trails. We all have different likes and dislikes.

Driving out West

I have found I really enjoy those “Not Real” trails. I still like those adrenaline pumping trails, but to be out in my Jeep checking out the natural beauty of nature does wonders for my soul even if it’s on the black top. You can still find adventure in small towns - My top 10 Must Visit Small Towns

Off road Insiders Podcast: Finding Trails

Jeep Momma Tips to Finding "Not Trails"

1. Google Scenic By-ways to find some really great black top road trips. There is one in Moab that parallels the Colorado river. It is absolutely amazing. Hwy 95 from Blanding, Utah to Hanksville, Utah is most spectacular.

2. Change Map Settings if you aren’t in a hurry. If you use Google Maps to get to your location, go into your settings and click the avoid toll roads and highways. 

3. TrailsOffRoad.com This website is cataloging trails all over the US. It will give you information such as length, difficulty, location, elevation, duration, plus a map with way points that has directions and mileage.

4. Black Canyon National Park a black top ride outside of Gunnison, Colorado on Hwy 92 through the Black Canyon National Park. If you are afraid of heights or ledges it’s a pretty intense Ride.

5. Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is another one. It’s said to be one of the most scenic drives. 

6. Backroads Books - Search Amazon.com for Backroads and 4 Wheel drive trails. There are guides for Colorado, Arizona, California and Moab. These guides have tons of photos that show the scenery as well as trouble spots. There are tips and advice from local experts to help get you through the trails. The trails are BLM approve and are legal routes.
  
7. TAT Trail - The founder Sam has been mapping public back roads and forest roads all over the United States for decades. He is still mapping. When he originally mapped the roads back in the 80’s all were gravel, but now some have been paved over time. This trail was originally designed for motorcyclists but Jeepers have begun to use these trails. It’s a great way to get away from big cities and get a look at America’s country Roads.