Saturday, March 30, 2024

How To Protect Our Public Lands from Closure

Tips for Off-Roaders get Involveded

As off-road enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of our land and ensure that our favorite trails remain open for future generations to enjoy. For the most part we all abide by the Tread Lightly Principals but what more can we do to protect our lands from closure.

 

Blue Ribbon Coalition


Support the Blue Ribbon Coalition

The Blue Ribbon Coalition is a national non-profit organization dedicated to preserving access to public lands for off-road enthusiasts. By supporting the Blue Ribbon Coalition, you can help fund their efforts to protect our rights and advocate for responsible off-roading policies.


Educate yourself and others about land use policies

It's essential to stay informed about land use policies and regulations that affect off-roading in your area. By educating yourself and others, you can help ensure that we are all following the rules and doing our part to protect public lands. More ways to Help Stop Trail Closures

Educating yourself about current issues enables you to help take action steps needed to protect our public lands from being closed. The Blue Ribbon Coalition lays out 5 action steps you can take to defend out public lands. 

Read More ➤➤  Current Issues


Practice the Tread Lightly! principles

As responsible off-roaders, it's important to follow the Tread Lightly! principles, which include staying on designated trails, respecting the rights of others, and leaving no trace. By adhering to these guidelines, we can minimize our impact on the environment and demonstrate that we are responsible users of public lands.


Get involved in trail maintenance and clean-up efforts

Many off-road clubs and organizations organize trail maintenance and clean-up events, which provide an excellent opportunity for us to give back to the off-roading community and help preserve our public lands. 


Join a local off-road club or organization

There's strength in numbers, and joining a local off-road club or organization like Blue Ribbon Coalition can help amplify our voices when it comes to advocating for our rights to access public lands. These groups often work with land managers and government agencies to develop responsible off-roading policies and practices.

Tips to Protect our Public Lands

How To Stop BLM - One Man Did in Arizona



Cool Jeep Mod

Under the Sun Grille Inserts

Jeepers are always looking to modify their Jeeps. Some want modifications for better performance others want to make their Jeep look unique. 


My Jeep Grille with the Compass and Mountain grille insert.
Grille Insert with mountains and compass.

15% Discount Code: Jeep Momma

There are so many ways to make your Jeep look unique. My favorite is the grille inserts from UndertheSunInserts

  • Easy Installation
  • No Drilling
  • Aluminum - 100% Rustproof
  • Made in the USA
  • Two Different Designs in One 

Check out my YouTube video Under the Sun Grille Insert install


My front grille with the purple American Flag.
Purple flag grille insert. 

The whole process took at the most five minutes. Much easier than some of the homemade, DIY, ideas you find on the internet. These aluminum inserts are durable and strong. Easy to clean up with a spray of your garden hose.

You can watch My Step-by-Step Guide How to Remove Your Jeep Grille
or read about how to Remove Your Jeep Grille


The best part... they are like a t-shirt for your Jeep. You could get one for every season. Choose from their many styles or get one custom-made. 


Saturday, March 23, 2024

Jeep's Plastic Side Steps

Take Them Off for Off-Roading

The Jeep Wrangler's plastic side steps, usually on the Sahara model, serve a practical purpose in daily use. They offer a step for easier entry and exit. However, when it comes to off-roading, they can be more of a hindrance than a help. 

The Jeep owners manual throws a curveball for off-roading enthusiasts: it advises removing these side steps before hitting the trails. Despite their utility in everyday situations, they become vulnerable in the unpredictable and often harsh environments encountered off-road.


Jeep Owners manual stating to take side steps off for off-roading
Jeep manual - side step removal

Jeep's manual is clear on this point: before you venture off the beaten path, it's wise to remove these steps. The reason is twofold. First, the plastic material, while durable under normal conditions, is not designed to withstand the impacts and abrasions from rocks, branches, and other off-road obstacles. Damage to the steps is not just a cosmetic issue; it can also lead to costly repairs and replacements.

Second, and perhaps more crucially, the side steps reduce the Wrangler's ground clearance and breakover angle. This reduction can make the difference between smoothly navigating over obstacles and getting caught or damaged midway. For serious off-roaders, preserving every inch of clearance is paramount to maintaining the Wrangler's legendary capability.

I decided to go with aftermarket sliders when I started doing more off-roadingJeep Momma's Barricade Rock Slider Install

Lesson Learned                             

I learned this lesson the hard way. It could have been a very expensive lesson but I got lucky. After being guided through some larger rock, I headed over with the other Jeeps to wait for the rest to finish. I relaxed a little which is a big mistake. Never ever let your guard down. I should have been scanning the trail continually. Well, I went over a rock and there was a large noise that even concerned the other drivers. I drove my step rail, yes those plastic stock step rails, right over a large rock. The rock pushed the drivers side rail up slightly into the fender and popped out the fender.


Kyle with off-road consulting fixing my plastic factory slider after I knocked it off on a rock.
Kyle fixing my side step


Luckily, Kyle, my guide,  knew exactly what to do. He got up on the step rail and jumped on it to push it back into place. Then with his hands he popped the fender back into place.


Making the Choice: To Remove or Not to Remove?

The decision to remove the plastic side steps before off-roading boils down to the type of adventure you're embarking on. If your journey involves light trails with minimal obstacles, the steps might not pose a significant risk. However, for more challenging terrains, taking Jeep's advice could save you from a headache down the line.

Jeep Manual page showing how to remove side step
Jeep manual 0 side step removal


Removing the steps is a simple, straightforward process, one you can do with basic tools. The added peace of mind and confidence in your vehicle's capability are well worth this prep step. Moreover, it opens up the opportunity to explore alternative solutions, such as aftermarket metal rock sliders, which offer superior protection and durability for off-road enthusiasts.


Friday, March 1, 2024

It's a Jeep Thing

More Than Just a Phrase


In the automotive culture, certain phrases and slogans become emblematic of an entire community. Among them, "It's a Jeep Thing" stands out as more than just a catchy tagline; it embodies a way of life, a philosophy, and a deep-rooted connection among Jeep enthusiasts worldwide. 

What exactly does this seemingly simple phrase mean, and why does it resonate so profoundly with those who live and breathe the Jeep lifestyle?


Selfie driving in my Jeep with the top down.
Jeep Momma topless Jeep driving



Laying the Foundation

At first glance, "It's a Jeep Thing" may appear enigmatic, even cryptic, to those unfamiliar with the intricacies of Jeep culture. To decode its meaning, one must delve into the rich history of the Jeep brand. Born out of military necessity during World War II, Jeeps were designed as rugged, utilitarian vehicles capable of traversing the most challenging terrains with ease. Their durability, versatility, and adventurous spirit captured the hearts of soldiers and civilians alike, laying the foundation for a passionate community that endures to this day.


Core Meaning


"It's a Jeep Thing" encapsulates a sense of camaraderie, shared experiences, and mutual understanding among Jeep owners. It signifies an appreciation for exploration, adventure, and the freedom to roam wherever the trail may lead. It's about embracing the unbridled spirit of adventure and forging lasting connections with like-minded individuals who share a love for the great outdoors and off-road exploration.

Check out my interpretation in this video ➤➤ It's a Jeep Thing


Selfie with my Jeep in the snowy Rocky Mountains.
Jeep Momma and her Jeep in the Rocky Mountains


A Way of Life

For Jeep enthusiasts, "It's a Jeep Thing" represents more than just a vehicle; it's a way of life—a mindset characterized by resilience, independence, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. It's about tackling challenges head-on, whether on the trail or in everyday life, with the same determination and grit that defines the Jeep brand itself.


Community Bonding

Moreover, "It's a Jeep Thing" fosters a sense of community that transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Jeep owners form tight-knit bonds through meetups, off-road excursions, and online forums, where they exchange tips, tricks, and stories of their adventures on and off the beaten path. There is even a special Jeep Wave shared among enthusiasts. In this community, age, background, and occupation take a back seat to the shared passion for exploration and the undeniable allure of the Jeep lifestyle.

"It's a Jeep Thing" transcends mere words; it's a feeling, a mindset, and a shared experience that unites Jeep enthusiasts around the globe. It's a reminder that life is an adventure best enjoyed with the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to chart your own course. So the next time you see that iconic phrase emblazoned on a bumper sticker or hear it uttered with a knowing nod, remember: it's more than just a saying—it's a way of life.

OAT vs. HOAT Coolant

What You Need to Know As a Jeep Wrangler owner, understanding the differences between OAT and HOAT coolants is crucial for maintaining your ...