Blog: The Dirt

Side Steps vs. Running Boards: Which Offers the Best Combination of Style, Functionality & Safety?

SUVs and trucks offer exceptional space for passengers and cargo; however, their size can also make getting in and out of your vehicle challenging. Many larger vehicles require a giant step up or down to get in and out. Fortunately, accessories like running boards and side steps can help with ...

The shovel is mightier than the sword. At least when it comes to getting unstuck! A dedicated snow shovel with a wide, square head moves the most snow with the least amount of shoveling. This is a lightweight, collapsible ski shovel. But a full-size snow shovel for clearing your driveway works just as well.

Smittybilt's camping chair is constructed from a lightweight aluminum frame and durable cordura fabric. It features a fold up table with an integrated coffee cup holder and removable, insulated cooler bag with padded grab handle. Padded armrests, seat base, and back rest ensure comfort after a long day on the trail.

Smittybilt's camping chair is constructed from a lightweight aluminum frame and durable cordura fabric. It features a fold up table with an integrated coffee cup holder and removable, insulated cooler bag with padded grab handle. Padded armrests, seat base, and back rest ensure comfort after a ...

Wheeling in the snow at night adds an entirely new dimension to an already dangerous hobby. Temperatures are lower at night, and it is easier to get disoriented. These are issues that can be overcome, but you need to be aware of them and adequately prepared with the right equipment. And whatever you do, don’t go alone.

When you feel resistance in the snow, your natural reaction may be to try to power forward. Often this results in digging holes and, if you spin too much, your tires can melt the top layer of snow. When this water re-freezes, it turns into ice and can halt you in your tracks. Instead, ease off the throttle

Rugged Radio's Jeep kit has everything you need for communications on the trail, including a 45-watt GMRS radio, coax cable, antenna, mounting bracket, and even a handheld radio for your spotter!

Rugged Radio's Jeep kit has everything you need for communications on the trail, including a 45-watt GMRS radio, coax cable, antenna, mounting bracket, and even a handheld radio for your spotter! Works with all GMRS and FRS radios operating on the same channels, including Rugged GMR45, GMR25, and ...

The WaterPort Weekender is ideal for on-the-go showers, cleaning and rinsing equipment, and any time you need pressurized water. Take it camping, fishing, to the beach, or anywhere your life meets the great outdoors!

The WaterPort Weekender is ideal for on-the-go showers, cleaning and rinsing equipment, and any time you need pressurized water. Take it camping, fishing, to the beach, or anywhere your life meets the great outdoors! With an eight-gallon capacity, you never have to worry about running out of water ...

Smittybilt's Recovery Utility Tool (RUT) is a fully functional collapsible military-style shovel. This modern rendition of the "e-tool" has an easy grip and light handle with a carbon steel blade that is heat treated and features double serrated edges for easy digging or cutting

Smittybilt's Recovery Utility Tool (RUT) is a fully functional collapsible military-style shovel. This modern rendition of the "e-tool" has an easy grip and light handle with a carbon steel blade that is heat treated and features double serrated edges for easy digging or cutting. The heavy-duty ...

Smittybilt's Gen2 Overlander tent uses 600d heavy-duty rip stop polyester material for a waterproof and polyurethane-impregnated top wrapped around anodized aluminum tent poles.

The durable, versatile Camp Chef Explorer Two-Burner cooking system packs enough power in its 30,000 BTU burners to boil water and cook your food in a hurry. Portability is no problem with the removable legs, and a three-sided windscreen makes outdoor cooking easy

The durable, versatile Camp Chef Explorer Two-Burner cooking system packs enough power in its 30,000 BTU burners to boil water and cook your food in a hurry. Portability is no problem with the removable legs, and a three-sided windscreen makes outdoor cooking easy. Being one of Camp Chef's 14" ...

Smittybilt's Rapid Air Deflator (RAD) operates by threading on to your valve stem and then removing the valve core from the stem and capturing it inside the brass housing. This makes it incredibly fast, and you never have to worry about losing the valve core

Smittybilt's Rapid Air Deflator (RAD) operates by threading on to your valve stem and then removing the valve core from the stem and capturing it inside the brass housing. This makes it incredibly fast, and you never have to worry about losing the valve core. This tool will give you the precise ...

Wheel Bearing Replacement Warning Signs & Cost

With regular wear and tear, even the most robust wheel bearings will eventually need to be replaced and swapped out with new ones. Thankfully, wheel bearings are not that expensive to replace, relatively speaking, especially compared to more serious repair jobs such as axles, rotors and pads, and ...

Everything You Wanted To Know About The Rubicon But Were Afraid To Ask

Photography: Harry Wagner The Rubicon. The very name conjures up images of Jeeps crawling over huge granite boulders in one of the most beautiful settings you can imagine, full of high alpine lakes, rocky mountain peaks, and pine trees as far as the eye can see. Crossing this trail for the first ...

The Dos & Don'ts of Running Board Installation

The Dirt Staff Say you decide to lift your truck to command the road and conquer any off-road obstacle in your way. With your vehicle lifted and looking the part, you choose to jump in and drive about, but then a problem emerges. Getting into your lifted truck proves to be a challenging task and ...

The Best All-Season Tires Preparing Warmer Weather

Summer will be coming very soon, and it's time to pop off those winter tires. You may question why this is necessary, after all, aren't tires just that, tires? The reason is, summer temperatures can be particularly hot, and blacktop soaks up heat, making things even hotter. The air temperature may ...

Solid Side Camper Shells - Things You Need to Know

The Dirt Staff If you're looking into buying a camper shell, truck topper, canopy or a truck cap there are a few things you need to know. First off, camper shells, truck toppers, canopies and truck caps are the same thing. Different words, but they're all describing the same thing. No, not the ...

All-New Ford Bronco Sets Sights On Rock Crawling Series

The DIRT Staff Photos: Courtesy of Ford The off-road racing world is always exciting but this year, Ford has really turned up the heat with the unveiling of the All-New 2021 Ford Bronco and they took it a step further by jumping into the world of Ultra4 Racing. While the All-New Bronco is slated ...

Protect The Nose Of Your Jeep Wrangler

Bigger tires and a lift are usually the first modifications to go on a Jeep. A more flexible suspension can make a world of difference in the dirt. The increase in traction, puncture resistance, and ground clearance that comes with bigger, better tires increases capability on the trail even more. ...

Blow The Doors Off Your Jeep JL Or Gladiator

Driving a Jeep with the doors and top on during summer is like non-alcoholic beer. It simply doesn't make any sense. Jeep designed the Wrangler so that the top and doors come off easily. It is the only four-door convertible in North America that you can quickly convert to a doorless convertible. ...

Where To Start With The Jeep JT

If you're looking to make upgrades to your 2020 Jeep Gladiator, you are in luck. The Gladiator JT platform is based on the current Jeep Wrangler JL. The JL just happens to be one of the easiest vehicles to modify rolling off the assembly line today. Not only will you enjoy the aftermarket parts ...

Snow Winching: Winter Winch Self-Recovery Technique

Winches are effective tools that help you free stuck vehicles by pulling them. A good winch helps vehicles get out of the water, mud, sand, snow, and even rocks. While the techniques for off-road winching and winter winching are different, the process is similar. The key difference is that you ...

Smittybilt Camping Chair with Cooler and Table Gray

Never buy ice again

Photography: Bryan Rogala If you're looking to upgrade your camp comfort game, one of best purchases you can make is an electric cooler or portable fridge/freezer . It's the first purchase I recommend to people who are looking to get into overlanding or just take their car camping setup to the ...

Adding Flex And A Better Ride To The Jeep Wrangler JL

Jeep hit a home run when they decided to ditch leaf springs and finally go with a coil-sprung suspension on the Wrangler. First introduced on the TJ, coil springs provide a much smoother ride than leaf springs. Axle wrap is also a thing of the past with control arms holding the axle in place. And, ...

After His Original Truck Was Stolen And Burned To The Ground, The Off-Road Community Comes Together To Build A Soldier His Dream Truck

Okay, thieves suck. Instead of having an actual job or doing remotely anything for society, they let you do all the hard work. Then they take the stuff you purchased with your hard-earned cash and sell it for profit or keep it for themselves. We have known about the suckery of thieves for a long ...

What You Need To Know Before You Buy The New Bronco

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner and courtesy of Ford The Ford Bronco is the most hotly anticipated new 4x4 on the market in years, and it is easy to see why. In addition to a name and look that harken back to the original Bronco of 1966-1977, Ford has loaded the new Bronco with features ...

Ultimate 2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X Off Road Review

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road and Chevy Silverado 1500 Z71 are arguably the two most popular off-road pickups currently on the market, but now there's a new kid on the block looking to prove himself. Nissan recently completely revamped the Frontier with a new look, an updated cabin, and upgraded ...

Learn From Our Mistakes

We have all made mistakes. As the saying goes, "to err is human." Try as we might, eventually we make a mistake somewhere along the line. It is just part of human nature. Anyone that denies ever making one is simply not dealing with reality. What matters the most is how we react to those ...

Baja 1000 is here and this year we're heading all the way down to La Paz!

The Dirt Staff "The Baja 1000 is by far, the most important race event in our sport. Every year thousands of teams, racers, and fans, along with industry & race personnel from SCORE, make the journey to Baja California in Mexico to organize and compete in this legendary race event. 4 Wheel ...

The Most Exhilarating and Enticing Wrangler—Ever

Ben Stewart For decades, Jeep fans have yearned for a factory-produced Wrangler loaded with a V8 under the hood. They have pleaded on message boards, begged Jeep on its social media accounts and even written letters to Jeep executives. The answer? It was always—"No". The last time a V8 was ...

Summer Off-Roading: Prepping for a Perfect Adventure

With summer in full swing and temperatures on the rise, it might be time to embark on your next thrilling adventure. Summer off-roading offers a very unique experience, allowing you to explore rugged terrains and picturesque landscapes when the weather is warm and pleasant instead of cold and ...

The Ins And Outs Of Camping In The Smittybilt Overlander Hard Shell Rooftop Tent

John Cappa Photography by John Cappa The Smittybilt Overlander hard shell rooftop tent is one of the newest sleeping solutions in the 4x4 and overland camping ecosystem. It comes with many of the same features that much more expensive rooftop tents have, yet the Smittybilt Overlander hard ...

Smittybilt Overlander Gen 1 vs 2 Rooftop Tent Review

The DIRT Staff Photography by Richard Giordano One of the great things about venturing off the paved roads and exploring the great outdoors in your truck or off-roader is that you can get really close to nature and breathtaking vistas, of course in a responsible manner. When you reach an ...

A Simple And Affordable Way To Clear Larger Tires

We have to admit that Jeep did a pretty damn good job with the new Gladiator. Sure, some people hate on it online. But those are usually the people who complain about almost everything. We even saw where one person said that the bed was too long and it didn't carry enough. Our math might not be ...

Off-Roading Trail Etiquette Guidelines for Beginners

Off-roading is one of the great joys in life. You take your trusty truck and a few essentials for survival and head out on the road less traveled. Maybe you've got some friends and a few things to warm up around a campfire. Life couldn't be better. But while off-roading is a surefire way to feel ...

Ultimate Linings vs. Line-X Linings vs. Rhino Linings

The Dirt Staff There are many different options for spray-on truck bedliners (also known as Spray-in bedliner or spray-on bedliner), and it can be challenging to identify which is the best fit for your vehicle. There are three main players in the spray-on liner market. All are sprayed on with ...

Bigger Tires And Attitude For Chevy's Latest Truck

The 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 generated plenty of controversy when it was unveiled. People went nuts about the new frontend with its squinty headlights and the looks of it. Forums went into an uproar, the Internet exploded, and some Chevy owners were seriously freaking out. It was a big deal and ...

Rooftop Comparison: Bikini, Soft Tops & Hard Tops

If you own a Jeep Wrangler, it's already a pretty special vehicle. Did you know you can enjoy an open-air experience with it at will? Of course, you may quickly tire of the factory top that comes with your Jeep Wrangler JL, and desire something a bit more versatile. This is where 4 Wheel Parts ...

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Improve Both Sound And Clearance On Your Wrangler

Almost every aspect of the Jeep JL has been improved, re-engineered, or evolved compared to the Jeep JK. It is not a massive leap forward, but the JL is definitely a nice evolution over the previous generation Wrangler. Jeep engineers spent a lot of time figuring out what could be improved upon ...

Images From A Spectacular Week Of Racing

Photography: Boyd Jaynes Maybe we are dating ourselves a bit, but we remember back when King Of The Hammers was nothing more than a couple dozen rock crawlers bouncing their way across the desert and over a bunch of rocks. What started out mostly as a group of friends in a loosely organized race ...

Winter Tires vs All Season: Which Work Better in Snow?

Most people don't think about their tires until they have a flat or experience very poor handling in bad conditions. The fact is that your tires are the only part of the car that contacts the road and so they are arguably the most important safety feature on your vehicle. They make huge ...

Why Your Jeep is Overheating & What to do About it

No matter how durable your car is, the engine temperature gauge needs to be monitored regularly. Jeep owners know how capable their vehicles are, but when it comes to overheating, the engines become sensitive and immediate action needs to be taken in order to preserve the engine's condition. In ...

Which are Better? Steel vs Aluminum Bumpers for Trucks

A bumper upgrade is one of the best things to bestow upon your truck if you're planning to take it off the beaten path. While an occasional off-road enthusiast venturing on mild trails can get by with the factory bumpers, purchasing a set of aftermarket metal bumpers for trucks is necessary if ...

What are the Four Types of Suspension Systems in Cars?

Sudden ups and downs are good fun at the amusement park. However, a smooth ride is always preferred in vehicles. Over time, great progress has been made in leveling and smoothing out roads and highways, but no road can ever be made perfectly flat. Small gradual waves and sharp bumps that have ...

The Coolest New Tech for Your Off Road Vehicle in 2023

Off road vehicles are extremely tough and capable, built to tackle the roughest of terrains, but even they could benefit from some modern gadgets. Winches and GPS units are all but too common in today's off-road market, so here are a few cool gadgets people with high tech off road vehicles should ...

11 Affordable 4x4 Repair Tools You Should Be Adding To Your Toolbox

John Cappa Photography by John Cappa As a 4x4 and off-road enthusiast, you've probably dabbled with your share of garage-based automotive maintenance and repairs using common hand tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets, ratchets and so on. But what you might not know is that as a ...

Recovery Tips: Winching with Smittybilt Synthetic Rope

The Dirt Staff No matter how competent you consider yourself at off-roading, there comes a time when you'll get stuck and need winching out. Don't sweat it; getting stuck and needing winching out is a rite of passage that every off-roader goes through on their journey. Talk to the seasoned pros, ...

Off-Roading Techniques & Tips for Navigating Hills

One of the best ways to have fun is to take your four-wheel-drive vehicle off-road and explore the great outdoors. Navigating hills is an integral part of true off-roading. However, it can also be one of the most challenging parts too. Read on to learn techniques and tips to make navigating ...

Winches Explained: What is a Winch and How Do I Use it?

You've heard of a winch and the term ‘winching' when reading up or talking about off-roading. What is a winch, how do you use it, and how can you choose the best winch? In this article, we will take you through how to use a winch, recovery tips, and will provide you with a holistic outlook on the ...

Winch Pulling Power: A Guide to Winch Line Pull Ratings

Winches can be used for various applications, from off-road driving to industrial use. There are numerous types of winches available on the market, and understanding winch line pull ratings is essential if you're looking for an upgrade of your truck or SUV. In this winching guide , we'll cover ...

What's Better? Full or Mid-Size Truck Overlanding Setup

What is overlanding? You may have come across this term at some stage and wondered how it differs from off-roading. In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about overlanding. We will present two options for an overlanding truck setup: the full-size truck overlanding setup and ...

Testing Smittybilt's New XRC Gen3 Winch The Hard Way

The Diesel Brothers always go big whenever they do pretty much anything. Just one look at any of their builds will confirm that. The Brodozer, Mega Ramrunner, F-650 Super Truck, and others are not known for being bland, boring, or hard to find in a parking lot. They are large and in charge and ...

Yes, It's Possible With A Guided Tour Of The Sonora Rally

If you are anything like us, you have been watching the coverage of the epic Dakar Rally and drooling all over yourself. The epic scenery, the amazing racing, the cool machinery, and the massive challenge of taking on thousands of miles of tough terrain are just so damn appealing. We constantly ...

Ultimate Truck Accessories: Holiday Buying Guide [2022]

Truck lovers aren't always easy to shop for, especially if you're not a truck lover yourself. Many people believe that truck accessories are expensive, and while many parts are, there are also smaller gifts that cost less than $100. Unfortunately, finding truck accessories to give as gifts is ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Jeep Gladiator Tonneau Covers

Although Jeep is most commonly related to rugged SUVs, the Gladiator is actually Jeep's pickup truck. When you look at the Gladiator from the front, you'd think it's just another Jeep, but when you take a look from the side, you quickly realize that aside from a spacious cabin, there's a spacious ...

Single Exhaust vs. Dual Exhaust Systems. Which is Best?

The Dirt Staff The term "cat-back exhaust" has nothing whatsoever to do with what you may find in little Fluffy's litter box. No, a cat-back exhaust system is really an aftermarket exhaust system that replaces everything from your vehicle's catalytic converter all the way back to its exit at the ...

Body Armor's Toyota Tacoma HiLine and Pro Series Bumpers

The popularity of the Toyota Tacoma is well deserved. It has always been a rugged and reliable truck that is surprisingly capable in the dirt. The smaller dimensions of the Tacoma make it more agile, and it will go places full-size trucks simply can't fit. Toyota's mid-size truck has always been a ...

What's the Difference Between Loaded vs Unloaded Struts?

Your suspension system is responsible for more than just enabling a comfortable ride. The proper hardware can also improve handling and stability, allowing for an enjoyable and safer driving experience. When the time comes to replace the struts on your truck or SUV, you'll have the option of ...

Everything You Need To Know To Keep Your Cool In The Wild

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner and courtesy of the manufacturers If you are hitting the trail for more than a couple hours, you are going to want to bring something to eat and drink with you. Even if you are just planning a short jaunt on the trail, it isn't a bad idea to bring ...

Diana vs Goliath and the Little Suzuki that Took on the 4WP EMC Race

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner and courtesy of Amber Turner As the name implies, the 4WP Every Man Challenge (EMC) is the less expensive, slightly easier, slightly shorter version of King of the Hammers . Held the day before the unlimited main race, the EMC race consists of three ...

Can Ford's Heavy Duty Off-Road Package Whip the Power Wagon?

Ben Stewart Photography by Ford and Ben Stewart As if there was any question: Ford remains the undisputed sales leader in fullsize pickup trucks. It's a title the Blue Oval has had since 1977. That's fairly astonishing. Last year, Ford found homes for 896,526 of them. And somewhere between 40 and ...

Squeaky Suspension? Best Solutions to Stop the Squeaking

Your suspension components are designed to provide comfort, stability, and traction while you are driving. But when they become worn or damaged, squeaks and cause unwanted vibrations begin to appear. That squeaky sound typically means that one of your suspension components needs repair or ...

Routine Tire & Wheel Maintenance You Should Be Doing

Tires are the sole contact patch with the road. No matter how technologically advanced your vehicle's onboard systems may be or how much mechanical grip it packs, if your tires or wheels encounter a problem, you're going to be in a bit of a pickle, to put it mildly. Sadly, we've seen all too ...

Prep Your Jeep For Spring! [Post-Winter Jeep Care Guide]

With winter over and spring in full effect, it's the perfect time to take your Jeep out for a spin and allow it to stretch its legs. However, before you hit the road, it's important to prepare your Jeep following its winter-long hibernation. There are a few things you need to check before you ...

Off-Grid Camping: 5 Essentials to Every Overlanding Trip

What Is Overlanding? Whether you've seen those carefully crafted Instagram photos or vloggers documenting their experiences on YouTube, you've likely come across overlanding camping and didn't even know it. But there's no fault in asking, "What is overlanding?" as this concept of camping is a ...

What To Look For In A Wheel

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner and Richard Giordano When you buy a new set of wheels for your rig, often the most important factor is looks. That is ok, aesthetics is important to everyone and is an important factor, but it shouldn't be the only factor. Width, load rating, and offset ...

What Makes Bushwacker Fender Flares Better Than The Rest?

The Dirt Staff We'll start out by saying there are big differences in these top brands versus the cheap fender flares you can find at chain stores that also sell groceries. That should go without saying. But we'll say it anyway. Don't buy auto accessories at the same place you buy your milk and ...

What Are the Best Types of Protection for Your Truck Bed?

The Dirt Staff You say you just spent $40,000 on a new truck and you want to keep it looking great? Wonderful! The problem is, that new truck has to work just as hard it will play. Loading tools and supplies for the job site in and out of the bed every day is going to take its toll. Even if the ...

Signs of a Bad Leaf Spring Shackle & Replacement Tips

Having a well-functioning suspension system is crucial when it comes to off-roading and exploring the great outdoors. One component that plays a vital role in your vehicle's suspension is the leaf spring shackle. While often overlooked, these seemingly insignificant metal brackets hold the key to ...

Round Rigids Are Here

Rigid Industries has long been the leader in LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology. Curved light bars, pods, and adaptive light patterns are just a few of Rigid's innovations in the industry. All of their LED lights have been bars or cubes though. That is until now. Rigid's new 360-Series use the ...

A New Roof Rack For The Jeep JL And JK

The Jeep Wrangler does not exactly have a cavernous interior. Pack a JL or a JK for a long adventure and you quickly realize space is at a premium. Even with an extra set of doors, there still isn't a lot of room inside of a Wrangler. That lack of space gets even worse when hauling passengers and ...

What's New: Roof Options for Jeeps to Fit Your Summer Mood

The Dirt Staff Jeep is one of those manufacturers who know that their target market want something different from the run-of-the-mill SUV or off-roader. Why go for a regular vehicle with fixed doors and top when you can choose a soft top, or even customize the removable hardtop on certain Jeep ...

The Latest Jeep News: Can We Expect a Fully Electric Jeep?

In the world of automobiles, the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has been steadily growing, with consumers looking for greener and more sustainable transportation options. As the iconic Jeep brand continues to innovate, one question arises: Can we expect a fully electric Jeep? We will ...

How Capable is the New Bronco Sport and is the Badlands Worth the Extra Money?

Ben Stewart Story and Photos: Ben Stewart The wait is almost over. Ford's all-new, retro-inspired and highly capable "big" Bronco is nearly ready to hit the trail. Delays caused by the pandemic have pushed the start of Bronco production back to May. So this spring, Broncos will begin to roam the ...

Routine Tire & Wheel Maintenance You Should Be Doing 2

The Dirt Staff Tires are the sole contact patch with the road. No matter how technologically advanced your vehicle's onboard systems may be or how much mechanical grip it packs, if your tires or wheels encounter a problem, you're going to be in a bit of a pickle, to put it mildly. Sadly, we've ...

Upgrade Your Brakes For Better Stopping Power

Bigger, more aggressive tires add valuable ground clearance, increase traction, and boost puncture resistance. And there is no denying that they also look great. The right set of wheels and tires really completes a vehicle. All are big wins for anyone hitting the trail or those that want their rig ...

Wheel Buying Guide: Which Rims are Best for Heavier Trucks?

The Dirt Staff Your truck is a beast. It takes you anywhere you want to go, whether it's off-roading or on the highway. It's strong, reliable, and always up for a good time. But there's one thing that your truck could use: a new set of wheels. You might be thinking that any old set of wheels ...

UTV Lighting Upgrades: Brightening Your Off-Road Adventures

When it comes to off-roading, having the right equipment is the key to success. Of course, everyone looks at suspension upgrades, rock sliders, and bumpers, but even advanced off-road drivers often overlook light bars, despite them being absolute game-changers. A well-chosen light bar will enhance ...

Choose The Correct Wheel Backspacing For Your 4x4

John Cappa Photos: John Cappa and courtesy of the manufacturers Choosing the correct wheel backspacing can be absolutely critical when installing new aftermarket wheels and tires on a stock or lifted 4x4 truck, Jeep or other SUV. Sadly, the term wheel offset is often mistakenly and incorrectly ...

Which of Toyota's legendary off-roaders is best on the trail?

Ben Stewart Photography by Ben Stewart The Toyota 4Runner has long been a cornerstone of SUV capability since the very first one launched way back in 1984. That truck, with its incredibly reliable four-cylinder engine , solid axles and neat removable top made it one of the most popular 4X4s ...

Should You Lift Your 4Runner? Here are 8 Things To Consider

The Dirt Staff Toyota's 4Runner is a hugely popular mid-sized SUV in North America. The nameplate has been around for over 30 years and continues to maintain a cult following among Toyota off-road fans. The current generation is based on the hugely capable J150 Prado/Lexus GX platform, and brings ...

Enhance Your Vision In Adverse Conditions

Most people only think of giant light bars when it comes to upgrading their lights. The trail is a very dark place to be in the middle of the night. Adding a lot more lumens to help illuminate the way makes a lot of sense. Otherwise, you will just be stumbling around in the dark only guided by ...

AMP's Awesome Powered Running Boards For The Jeep JT

Installing a lift is usually the first mod anyone performs on a 4x4. The extra height helps clear larger tires and adds valuable ground clearance. Of course, a vehicle gets harder to get into as it gets taller. That fact is just fundamental physics, and there is no getting around it. Even the most ...

Tow, Haul, Daily Drive or Play with Larger Tires and a Low Center Of Gravity

When it comes to the first few mods on your newer truck, there's a level of excitement and enthusiasm we all experience attempting to personalize our new truck to do a multitude of jobs. Depending on your needs, you might just throw caution to the wind and dive right into a fully custom suspension, ...

Why Does My Steering Wheel Shake While Driving? How to Fix It

A shaking steering wheel is concerning, especially when you're driving at higher speeds or coming to a stop. In most cases, it's nothing severe and likely improper balance; things like low tire pressure or uneven treadwear on your tires. Still, sometimes a shaking steering wheel can be a symptom ...

UTV Lighting Upgrades: Brightening Your Off-Road Adventures 2

When it comes to off-roading, having the right equipment is the key to success. Of course, everyone looks at suspension upgrades , rock sliders , and bumpers , but even advanced off-road drivers often overlook light bars, despite them being absolute game-changers. A well-chosen light bar will ...

Remote Starts & Car Alarms: 1-Way vs. 2-Way Communication

The Dirt Staff There are, quite literally, dozens and dozens of remote car starter systems and keyless entry systems available for your vehicle. The market can be very confusing, especially if you are not sure whether you need a 1-way system or a 2-way remote start system. But what does that mean? ...

Potential Problems When Lifting A Jeep & Solutions To Try

Lifting your Jeep is an extremely popular mod. Whether you're doing it purely for looks, to fit new wheels, or enhance your Jeep or other off-roader's capability, a good lift kit can do wonders for all these aspects. However, fitting a lift kit isn't exactly an easy endeavor, and you may run into ...

Another 4WP Clean And Custom Build

The DIRT Staff You know 4 Wheel Parts customizes trucks all day every day and Jeremy "Twitch" Stenberg is certainly no stranger to the off-road world as you'll remember from our last look at his Clean And Custom Tundra Build (Link to original story: - ) so when Twitch hit us up and told us he ...

Why Does a Remote Start Need a Bypass Module (and what is it?)

The Dirt Staff Have you ever thought about how nice it would be to have a remote start system on your car or truck when you live in Kansas City? You know, its freezing cold outside, you're inside sipping the morning cup, you press a button on the remote starter and, outside in the driveway, your ...

When to Replace Your Tires: On-Road, Off-Road & All Terrain

Tires are the unsung heroes of our vehicles. They bear the weight, endure the roads, and keep us safe on our adventures. But how do you know when to bid farewell to your trusty tires and welcome a new set? We'll explore the importance of replacing worn tires, discuss when to determine the ...

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Which Jeep Hardtops are Best for Preventing Rain and Snow Leaks?

Many Jeep hardtops are built to be heavy-duty and protect your car's interior in various conditions. But many hardtops might become damaged and cause a leak. Often, you might not even know a leak is happening until it's too late and droplets of rain or snow are making their way into your vehicle. ...

What are the Off-Road Trucking Industry Trends to Follow in 2023

2023 is a great year for trucks, off-roading, and even electric vehicles. The rapid advancement in technology has made it possible for new vehicles to hit the streets. Reports from Experian and the International Energy Agency show that EV sales are on the rise for all vehicle types, including ...

Protect Your Jeep's Hood With Bushwacker's Trail Armor

When navigating through tight trails, it isn't uncommon for branches and limbs to scrape and scratch your paint into oblivion. Fortunately, Bushwacker has you covered with their new Trail Armor Hood Stone Guard for the Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT. Bushwacker's Hood Stone Guard is a ...

What's New: Pro Comp LED Light Products That You Weren't Aware Of

The DIRT Staff Lighting is a critical element of any road-legal vehicle, so much so that it's mandated on all road-legal vehicles, not just in North America but every country in the world. After all, if you can't see where you're going in the dark, you aren't going to get very far unscathed. While ...

The Impact of Suspension on Off-Road Performance & Capability

In the exciting world of off-roading, the thrill of conquering rugged terrain is closer than you think. 4 Wheel Parts understands that to truly dominate off-road trails, more than just horsepower and a daring spirit is needed. That's where off-road suspension comes into play. Yes, we're talking ...

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Pro Comp & Rubicon Express Guide: Truck Lift Kit Installation

The DIRT Staff A lift kit can open up your off-roader to a whole world of possibilities. Suddenly, your ground clearance, approach, and departure angles are enhanced, allowing you to tackle more demanding terrain and trails that were previously off-limits to your stock ride height. Your vehicle ...

Powertrain vs Drivetrain vs. Driveline Breaking Down the Differences

Let's delve into three terms that people tend to use interchangeably but incorrectly. You may have heard about powertrains, drivetrains, and drivelines, especially in off-roading circles. They are all critical components without which your vehicle will not be able to move an inch (unless by an ...

What Are Bead Lock Wheels?: Comparison to Icon Alloy's Innerlock Tech

Bead lock tires have become a staple for off roading enthusiasts and those with more involved or treacherous commutes. Their technology can reinforce a driver's stability — especially for those with larger vehicles, like the Chevrolet Silverado. However, they are not without their faults. ...

Steel Versus Aluminum Wheels - Which Wheel Material Is Right For You?

Understanding the Differences Between Metric & Standard Tire Sizes

When it comes to tires, understanding the differences between metric and standard sizes is crucial for making informed buying decisions. With different terms like diameter, radius, and width, thrown around all the time, as well as different measurements for all of them, it can sometimes get ...

A Serious Upgrade For The Jeep JL And Gladiator

Building upon their excellent unit for the Jeep JK, Alpine has brought to market a new direct-fit solution for the Jeep JL and Gladiator. The large, 9-inch screen touch screen has a graphical swipe interface that is optimized for an in-vehicle smartphone. It works regardless of whether you are an ...

What is a Battery Management System and How to Optimize for Overlanding

Batteries are often the underappreciated heroes of overlanding. Everyone knows that batteries are important, of course, but sometimes people don't realize just how important a proper battery management system is until it's a little bit too late. Batteries are a crucial part of overlanding ...

Signs Your Shock Absorbers Need Replacing & The Best Buying Options

The DIRT Staff Have you ever wondered why your vehicle has shock absorbers ? What's their purpose, and why do some off-roaders have massive ones with chunky springs wrapped around them, showing off their structure in bright colors. Most importantly, you may be wondering how to tell if you need ...

Reversible Offroading Mods For Your Jeep [Customizing Your Leased Jeep]

The Dirt Staff Can you modify a leased car? That's a question that comes to many off-road enthusiasts, including Jeepers. Not everyone can afford to pay outright for a brand new or pre-owned Jeep, and many may choose the leasing route. What can you do with a leased Jeep in terms of mods? In this ...

Upgrading Your Truck: How to Improve Your Interior & What's Involved

While the exterior of your truck is what everyone else sees, you spend the most time in the interior. So what is more important for you: the outside or the inside? Many truck owners will tell you that they would prefer the place that they spend time in to be as comfortable and capable as possible. ...

Control Your Air Springs With The Tap Of A Finger

Air springs are a great addition for anyone that tows or hauls heavy loads. Without them, your rig's rear suspension can do some serious sagging. This can cause your headlights to blind other drivers at night. Even worse, it can make your vehicle's handling a handful and seemed unbalanced when ...

The Guide For 4 Wheeling - 10 Things To Be Aware When Entering 4 Wheeling

The DIRT Staff Four-wheeling is one of those great things in life that, once you've been bitten by the bug, you can't get enough of. Exploring the great outdoors with your vehicle, being one with nature, and conquering obstacles that you never thought you would brings on a thrilling adrenalin rush. ...

Raising Awareness For Breast Cancer Research

The DIRT Staff Photos: Courtesy of Smittybilt By now you've probably already seen Smittybilt's Aluminum Winch Shackle that allows you to replace the conventional winch hook on the front of your winch with a closed system winch shackle to allow you to make safe and secure pulls with steel ...

Which Rugged GMRS radio is right for you?

Photos courtesy of the manufacturer Rugged GMRS radios are ideal for Jeeps, 4x4s, overlanding, UTVs, hiking, adventure, emergencies, and many other off-grid communication needs. The radios have become extremely popular for recreational communications, and for good reason. GMRS radios are easy ...

What Jeep Wrangler Parts & Accessories are Compatible with a Gladiator?

Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT are both exquisite off-roaders with capabilities far exceeding both the skill and courage of most drivers. To Jeep novices, these two models might be difficult to differentiate because they look very similar from most angles. In fact, you wouldn't be able to tell ...

Why Custom Headlights Get Moisture In Them (Spoiler - They Aren't Defective)

Which Are Ideal For Rain & Snow? The Dirt Staff When you've got some awesome looking custom headlights, the last thing you want to see when you walk to the front end of your vehicle to check them out is moisture inside the lens. It might look like a foggy cloud from the sky was sucked into ...

What Can Cause a Drivetrain to Malfunction? What to Know & How to Fix It

Whether it's a small component or a major part of the engine, it's always a pain when part of your vehicle stops working properly. And when that happens, it becomes integral to understand the part of your car that failed. What does it do? What caused it to malfunction? How important is a repair? ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Dodge RAM Offroad Wheels and Tires: What Fits Best?

Have you got a Dodge Ram? If so, you know that this full-size pickup truck is a formidable beast, on and off road. In fact, it's so formidable that in 2010, Ram was spun off as a separate brand, dealing in – you guessed it – potent pickup trucks. We at 4 Wheel Parts have a bucket ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Ford Raptor Offroad Wheels and Tires: What Fits Best?

At 4 Wheel Parts, we see a wide range of off-roaders and trucks come our way, and our team of experts is always glad to provide the best possible advice to owners on upgrades. Here we're going to be talking about the Ford Raptor. Ford's high-performance variant of its popular pickup trucks and ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Ford F-150 Offroad Wheels & Tires: What Fits Best?

?? The Ford F-150 is seen as one of the standard-bearers of pick-up trucks. It's known for its durability and reliability. However, if you want to take full advantage of the Ford F-150's off roading capabilities and handling, then it may be time to upgrade your Ford F-150 off road wheels and tires. ...

Rough Country Lift Kit Review: Cost, Quality & What to Expect from the Brand

The vast majority of us have heard of Baja, Mexico. The land south of the border brings up romantic visions of rugged landscapes, remote beaches, and vast expanses of wild, untouched beauty. Of course, there is also the undeniable attraction of refreshing cerveza, legit tacos, fresh shrimp, and ...

Repair or Replace: Navigating Pros & Cons of Car Bumper Repair vs Replacement

Bumpers protect your engine from sustaining damage in accidents. Many bumpers also crumple on impact to keep the driver safe. Every vehicle has a front and rear bumper and when you get into an accident the bumper is the first part of the vehicle that makes contact. Whether it's a fender bender or ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Jeep Gladiator Offroad Wheels and Tires: What Fits Best?

Set aside light bars and winches, because the single most important upgrade you can make to your Jeep Gladiator is better wheels and tires. If you can only budget for one modification and one modification only, start with grippier off-road tires and matching wheels. Not only do they look cool, ...

Seat Covers for Pet Owners: Protecting Your Seats from Fur, Scratches & Stains

As every pet owner knows, there's nothing better than being able to take your adorable companion everywhere with you. An adventure isn't a proper adventure unless you have your sidekick beside you at all times. Car rides are much more enjoyable if you have your pet with you, but as great as that ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for GMC Hummer EV Offroad Wheels & Tires: What Fits Best?

The Dirt Staff Once known as one of the biggest gas guzzlers, the Hummer brand is making a comeback with an all-electric SUV. The GMC Hummer EV is a capable off-road vehicle that's as powerful as it looks. It has huge tires and wheels that give it plenty of ground clearance and make it capable to ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Chevy Silverado Offroad Wheels and Tires: What Fits Best?

Are you ready to put that Chevy Silverado to work on those mountainous roads? Before you plan that next off-roading session, you must ensure you have the best off-road tires for your Chevy Silverado. This also goes for the corresponding wheels. There are so many options out there that it can feel ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Toyota 4Runner Offroad Wheels & Tires: What Fits Best?

Are you looking for wheels for your Toyota 4Runner? Do you want the best off-road tires for Toyota 4Runner? If you are, 4 Wheel Parts has a wide range of wheels and tires for you to consider, not just for Toyota 4Runners, but almost any off-roader or truck. When looking for Toyota 4Runner ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Toyota Tacoma TRD Offroad Wheels and Tires: What Fits Best?

Toyota Tacomas are known for their versatility and reliability. This is why they are one of the best mid-sized pick-up trucks to take out for off-roading — whether for work or leisure. Nevertheless, before you begin your driving adventure, investing in the right Toyota Tacoma off-road wheels ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Jeep Wrangler JK Offroad Wheels & Tires: What Fits Best?

Jeep Wrangler JKs are the third generation of off-road Jeep Wranglers and were in production from 2006 to 2018. Jeep Wrangler JKs were among the best-selling off-road vehicles in its class during its production time. What made the JK successful was its customizable options, powerful 4-wheel drive, ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Jeep Wrangler JL Off-Road Wheels & Tires: What Fits Best?

The Jeep Wrangler JL began production in November of 2017 and it's been a hit since it hit the market. While it's similar to older models, this new generation of Jeep Wrangler can benefit from different wheels and tires for upgrade purposes. Jeep Wrangler JLs come with many options and trim ...

Revitalizing Your Jeep: A Guide to Choosing & Installing the Best Replacement Parts

Is your Jeep starting to feel a bit long in the tooth? Perhaps it no longer drives as smoothly as it used to. Maybe it tends to stutter or get stuck across trails that it once breezed across. Jeeps, like any other vehicle, need regular maintenance to consistently perform at their best. If you've ...

Retro Review: 2015 Ford F-250 Super Duty-Is The Original Super Duty A Super Deal Today?

Ben Stewart In the 1990s, it became clear to engineers deep within Ford that one fullsize pickup platform simply couldn't serve both light and heavy-duty truck buyers. First, the company launched the radical 1997 F-150, an agile light-duty pickup that had smooth lines and drove with an ease that ...

Ultimate Buying Guide for Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Offroad Wheels & Tires What Fits Best

The Chevy Colorado is a solid mid-size pickup truck, and when equipped with the factory ZR2 package, becomes a fine off-road machine as well. Powered by a range of gasoline and diesel engines, it's got ample space, comfort, and carrying capacity to be your perfect family vehicle. Of course, once ...

Note that snow wheeling is entirely different than driving on icy roads. On icy roads, you want a narrow tire with a lot of siping and even studs for traction. In contrast, deep snow is best conquered with wide tires that have flexible sidewalls and tread that is open, but not too aggressive.

Is a Jeep Wrangler Soft Top a Bad Idea During Winter?

Jeep Wrangler tops are made with fiberglass, like in the case of a hardtop, or a combination of 4-ply or 2-ply composites and fabrics like polyester and cotton. Hardtops are more durable but more expensive, while soft tops are more flexible and affordable. Depending on your needs, both tops are ...

Innovative Top Features: Integrated Roof Racks, Sunroofs & Storage Solutions

When you think about your car, what areas do you focus on when thinking about upgrades? You might think of the interior , like seating or the infotainment center. You might also think about under the hood, like your engine and such. However, it might be easy to forget the top of your car. Your ...

How Upgraded Fog Lights Can Enhance Truck Safety & Performance in Challenging Weather Conditions

When it comes to improving vehicle exterior lighting, one of the questions many folks ask is what lights to use in fog conditions. Anyone who has spent time driving in foggy, snowy, or other inclement conditions knows the value of a good set of fog lights, and how they can dramatically improve ...

How to Upgrade the Exterior & Interior Lighting in Your Truck this Winter

Customizing your truck is a great way to show your personality, but there are also many practical add-ons that you can use to enhance the character and usability of your ride. Upgrading your exterior truck lights not only looks great but also provides so many practical gains that it's a great ...

How to Safely Remove Ice & Snow from Your Truck

Waking up to a fresh coat of the white stuff is an incredible sight. Everything looks clean and serene. The only problem is that snow and ice can become a real headache when it piles up on your truck. That's why knowing how to safely remove ice and snow from your truck before you hit the road is ...

It's A Great Excuse To Get New Parts!

If there is one thing television has taught us over the years, it is that the zombie apocalypse is coming. Whether it is the slow and dim-witted walkers of the increasingly boring The Walking Dead , the more athletic and angry ragers of World War Z , or the hybrid zombies of Netflix's excellent ...

What You Need To Know Before Buying Your Next Set Of Tires

Tires are the single-most-important item that you can buy for your truck, Jeep, 4X4, or SUV. You can add all the armor, bumpers, lockers, and light bars that you want. But tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the ground. The wrong tires struggling for grip can make all your other ...

How to Maximize Performance & Safety on the Road with Wheels & Tires

Your vehicle's wheels and tires play a crucial role when it comes to road safety and performance. Together, they provide the necessary traction needed when accelerating, braking, and steering, but they also help to absorb road vibrations and shocks, thus providing a smoother ride. Choosing the ...

How to Get the Most Out of Your Bestop Jeep Soft Top

Bestop is the number one manufacturer worldwide for premium soft tops for the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep CJ models. A Bestop soft top is one of the simple yet functional purchases you can make for your Jeep. It provides comfort, saves cost compared to a hard top, and protects you from the elements ...

How to Fix Windshield Chips and Cracks from Off-Roading & Freeway Driving

It's happened to nearly everyone who drives a vehicle regularly. You're driving at freeway speed or on the trails, and you hear a sharp crack. The next thing you know, there's a ding or chip in your windshield. It's enough to unnerve even the most seasoned off-roader or experienced road driver. ...

Improve Fuel Economy, Tire Life, Traction And Vehicle Ride With Proper Tire Pressure

John Cappa Correctly inflated tires can increase fuel economy and tire tread life, improve traction off-road and offer better overall on and off-road ride quality for your 4x4. No other modification can match the performance and economy gains of tires that are properly inflated for the task at ...

How to Find the Correct Tire Pressure for Your Car

Most people don't bother regularly checking their tire pressures, but some would argue that tire pressure is just as important as making sure you have enough oil and coolant in the engine. Overinflated or underinflated tires have a severe impact on how your car drives and behaves, as well as ...

A Super Swamper Buyer's Guide

John Cappa Photos: John Cappa and courtesy of the manufacturer The Interco Super Swamper tire product line includes some of the most aggressive and recognizable street-legal mud tires ever offered. The company is well known for its legendary Three Stage Lug (TSL) tread pattern, which helps ...

Airing Down Is Important But What Is The Right Air Pressure?

If you have visited The Dirt before, you have likely heard us extoll the virtues of airing your tires down for increased traction on the trail. But how do you know how much pressure to run? Some people air down to 25 psi, while others may air down to 5 psi. And honestly, both pressures can be ...

How to Change the Cabin Air Filter in a Jeep Wrangler JL or Jeep Gladiator JT

The DIRT Staff What is a cabin air filter ? As the name suggests, it's a filter that filters the air in your vehicle's cabin. Like how your engine's air filter cleans the air entering the combustion chamber, the cabin air filter performs the same job on the air entering the interior and, ...

How Much Does it Cost to Replace Truck or Jeep Brakes?

Brakes are essential components of any vehicle, and it's of the utmost importance to regularly check them and do preventive maintenance. The two components in a vehicle's braking system that need to be replaced most often include brake discs and brake pads. How often they need to be replaced ...

How Lift Kits Impact Driving Performance: Gas Mileage, Towing Capacity & Speed

One of the best parts about owning a truck is being able to customize, personalize, and modify it. Trucks are the ultimate vehicle for customization, in part because there are so many different options for modification. Some of those options improve the truck's performance, some of them increase ...

How Do You Use a Trailer Break Controller? We've Got Answers

The Dirt Staff We know you probably weren't paying attention in high school physics when they covered Sir Isaac Newton's Laws of Motion. Newton wasn't the guy who invented those fig cookies, although he was a pretty smart cookie himself. No, Newton was the first guy to figure out that; "Every ...

Hiking, Biking, or Four-Wheeling: Which One is for You?

Fresh air, mountain views, and freedom from the hustle and bustle are just a few benefits of exploring nature. Whether you take a weekend trip to a remote forest or check out a nature preserve less than an hour from the city, enjoying the natural world can be an excellent way to recharge. There ...

Guide to Head Gasket Leaks & Repairs [Identification & Cost to Fix]

Head gaskets are a critical component of any internal combustion engine, and when they go wrong, they can cause major issues, with four or even five-figure repair bills as the end result. You don't want that, especially if you're out on the trails and away from civilization. There are two major ...

Grille Guards vs Bull Bars - What's The Difference & Which is Best?

When venturing off-road, you need proper protection for your SUV, off-roader, or truck. While a mild trail is easily tackled by your vehicle in stock form, you'll want to upgrade protection across a variety of areas as you venture into the truly rough stuff and gain confidence at off-roading. ...

Getting the Ultimate Off-Roading Experience with Snow Tires & Chains

When the snow falls, the fun starts. That's a motto that many of us live by. The fluffy, white stuff shouldn't get in the way of putting a smile on your face. Regarding off-roading during winter, 4 Wheel Parts provides several solutions to get the most traction and grip in all conditions. The ...

Functional Jeep Mods to Make Now: What Really Makes a Difference?

The Dirt Staff A stock Jeep is like a blank canvas waiting to be personalized and taken to the next level. There are endless possibilities when it comes to the interior, lighting, and other functional mods that can make your Jeep stand out from the rest. But with so many options available, it can ...

Fullsize vs Midsize: Which Pickup Truck Is Best For You?

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner Decades ago, there was a clear distinction between fullsize trucks and "mini trucks". Fullsize trucks were built by the Big Three (Ford, GM, and Dodge) and came with V8 engines . Foreign manufacturers like Toyota and Nissan built mini trucks with fuel ...

A 4WP Clean And Custom Build

Jeremy "Twitch" Stenberg spends plenty of time in the dirt. During his career, he has racked up an impressive 17 X Games medals in freestyle motocross. After lots of time on dirt bikes, Twitch switched to a cage and continues to rack up the wins in LOORRS short-course truck racing. No stranger ...

Better Jeep Gladiator Suspension With Fox Adjustable Remote Reservoir Shocks

John Cappa Photos: John Cappa and courtesy of the manufacturer Very few vehicles are as versatile as the Jeep Gladiator JT pickup truck. That versatility results in a variety of cargo loads and driving conditions that challenge the factory shock absorbers and require more damping. The good news ...

Ford F-150 vs. Toyota Tacoma: Which is the Better Truck?

Pitting cars against each other is a tale as old as time. Whether you're a car enthusiast comparing 0-to-60 times, or simply a consumer trying to find the right vehicle for your needs, there's a long history of taking two cars and putting them head-to-head. This is especially true with trucks. ...

Folding vs Retractable - Which Tonneau Cover Protects Your Truck Bed Best?

A tonneau cover is a section of fabric, fiberglass, or aluminum that covers the bed of your pickup truck and protects it from the elements as well as prying eyes and thieves. Not only will a tonneau cover protect any valuables you place in your truck bed from theft, but it'll also slightly ...

Floor Mats vs. Floor Liners - What's The Difference & Why Fitment Matters

It may be easy to forget about your car's floors. This area is less prominent than the parts of your vehicle that are easily seen by others. Yet, keeping your car's floors clean is crucial to your car's overall look and health. There are ways to protect your car's floors from dirt and grime. ...

First Look at 4WP Factory's 2022 Jeep Wrangler JL Products

The DIRT Staff Jeep's latest Wrangler JL is the fourth generation of the automaker's popular off-roader that's loved by many. It's great whether you appreciate that it sports a removable roof and doors, allowing you to truly enjoy the great outdoors, or love the fact it can play the role of a ...

Lift & Leveling Kits, Bumpers, Fender Flare Delete and more Coming Soon to 4WP

The DIRT Staff By now you've probably seen some cool photos making the rounds showing off the awesome Bronco that 4 Wheel Parts put together for Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. It's no surprise that the all-new 2021 Ford Bronco is a big hit with enthusiasts, and many are no doubt are drooling ...

Find Your Jeep Wrangler Towing Capacity: Chart & Towing Tips

When it comes to the adventurous world of off-roading, the Jeep Wrangler is undoubtedly a top contender. Its rugged build, capable suspension, and iconic design make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're planning a camping trip or hauling your gear to the next trail, knowing your ...

Find the Differences Between Soft-Roll Up and Soft Tri-Fold Truck Bed Covers

The Dirt Staff So you want a soft truck bed cover but aren't quite sure what type you need? The two most popular soft covers are roll-up and tri-fold tonneau covers. There are snap covers, but those are kind of a pain compared to these other two. Walking around the whole truck bed snapping or ...

Find Out Why Wheel Size Matters and What You Need to Know

The Dirt Staff Wheel Size Does size really matter? Of course it does! Plus sizing wheels. Even though we aren't supposed to judge you from your appearance, we all do it. The size of your rims can say a lot about you and your style. When shopping for new rims, you're gonna want the right ...

Adding Protection And Style

When you leave the pavement to head off-road, you likely think about the potential damage that rocks and other trail debris can do to your 4x4's paint. Wider off-road tires can kick up a considerable amount of gravel, rocks, mud, and other debris. If you want to safeguard your machine's paint and ...

Fender Basics: Do Fender Flares Improve Performance?

Here's one topic that's hotly debated: fender flares. It's commonly asked, do fender flares actually improve performance? Are they just for show? Does your Jeep really need them? Fender flares are some of the most accessible and most affordable mods available to an SUV or truck owner. Not only ...

Reinforce Your Ford Bronco With The Latest Offerings From Fab Fours

John Cappa Photos: Courtesy of the manufacturer Fab Fours now offers a full line of new Bronco bumpers , rocker guards and other accessories. Of course the company is well known for its polarizing Grumper line, which is available to defend the front end of many popular 4x4s including the new ...

Extreme Camping Buyer's Guide: 4 Accessories You Need

The Dirt Staff The camping season is fast arriving and having been gripped in the throes of a nasty global pandemic for the past two years, it's only natural to crave the great outdoors once again. The thrill of traveling to destinations unknown, conquering off-road trails, and camping in the wild, ...

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Exhaust Manifold Leaks & Repairs [Identification & Cost to Fix]

An exhaust manifold leak is a serious issue, as it means that spent combustion gases from your engine are directly escaping into the atmosphere. This isn't a desirable situation, and may deem your vehicle unroadworthy as well. That's why it's crucial to identify and repair such leaks at the ...

How Big Is it, What's It Made Of, And What's Available for It

The new Jeep Gladiator JT is finally among us. It has landed at dealers and is now available to the public. Yes, some of those dealers are charging huge markups to take advantage of those eager to get their hands on one. But that shady practice should hopefully fade away as supply increases. Once ...

Avoid Hydroplaning And Keep Your 4x4 On The Road

John Cappa Photos: John Cappa and courtesy of the manufacturers Contrary to what you might think, your lifted off-road capable 4x4 rolling on big knobby tires may not perform as well as a stock 4x4 on rain soaked highways and streets. Wet weather driving in any vehicle can be tricky, but a ...

The Simplest Suspension Is More Complicated Than You Think

While new Jeeps and SUVs these days typically come with coil springs, leaf springs still exist on the rear of most pickup trucks (Ram 1500s and 2500s being the exception). Leaf springs are the most simplistic and inexpensive suspension system for your 4x4. The basic technology has been around ...

Photography by Harry Wagner and courtesy of the manufacturers

Often times we are drawn to make modifications to our vehicles that set it apart from the masses and make a visual impact. These include light bars , bumpers , and lift kits , for example. Some upgrades are just as functional, but make less of a visual impact. Examples would be lower axle ...

Everything to Know from the 57th Annual Easter Jeep Safari

Each year, Jeep enthusiasts make their way to Moab, Utah, to check out the latest Jeep concept cars while testing the off-roading features of various Jeep models. The Jeep easter event celebrates what Jeep offers and provides a look at what the future may hold for the brand. This year, 20,000 ...

EV Trucks - What's Next For Electric Powered Trucks in 2023? 2

The DIRT Staff It seems that the electric vehicle market has been kicked into overdrive. Suddenly, manufacturers who didn't plan on having an EV in their lineups are talking about plans to go all-electric within a few years. In fact, some manufacturers have pledged to totally phase out internal ...

EV Trucks - What's Next For Electric Powered Trucks in 2023?

It seems that the electric vehicle market has been kicked into overdrive. Suddenly, manufacturers who didn't plan on having an EV in their lineups are talking about plans to go all-electric within a few years. In fact, some manufacturers have pledged to totally phase out internal combustion ...

Engine Oil Recycling: How to Dispose of Used Motor Oil

In most cars, engine oil needs to be replaced at least once per year, and usually more often. Some owners change the engine oil ourselves, while many people take their car to a certified mechanic to do it for them. One thing most people don't think about is where does the engine oil end? Does it ...

Cutting Edge Performance From The Maxxis RAZR AT and MT Tires

Harry Wagner Photos by Harry Wagner and courtesy of the manufacturer Maxxis is a legendary brand in the rockcrawling, mountain biking, and drift car communities, but did you know that they make tires for your 4x4 as well? The Maxxis RAZR AT and Maxxis RAZR MT are perfectly suited to Jeeps, ...

Cold Weather Camping [How to Prepare & What to Know]

Glove boxes are small compartments built into the passenger side dashboard. These boxes are commonly used for storing miscellaneous items like a vehicle's owner's manual. Some glove boxes also lock, which makes them great storage for your valuables when you leave your vehicle. While you can put ...

Choosing Fender Flares: How to Measure, Styles & Features

The automotive aftermarket is full of exciting and high-quality accessories that can stylize your car or truck, but also add the required protection to the vehicle. Some of the most popular exterior accessories for trucks are fender flares. They come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, but ...

Cheapest Overlanding Must-Haves - Starting at $10!

The DIRT Staff Think of overland gear and accessories, and the big stuff typically comes to mind: comprehensive aftermarket upgrades for your truck or off-roader that make it tougher, stronger, and more capable in the rough stuff. Naturally, you'll think of wheels, tires , suspension , bumpers , ...

Catching up with Jason Scherer after 2023 King of the Hammers 1

Can You Drive a Car with a Damaged Suspension? What to do & How to Fix it

Whether on the trails or the freeway, suspension damage is never good. Knowing what causes suspension damage is essential so you can be proactive in preventing and recognizing it if it occurs. When off-roading, common suspension damage happens when a tire, suspension link, or trailing arm hits ...

Camping 101: Jeep Models that Can be Flat Towed Behind an RV

With the camping season fast approaching, it's time to start planning your next adventure. If you own a class A or class C motorhome, bringing your Jeep along for the ride is possible. Flat towing is one of the best ways to transport your Jeep safely and securely behind an RV. When it comes to ...

The Rematch: Which four-door trail machine is the top dog?

Ben Stewart Back in October, we rounded up the two-door versions of the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler equipped with the most capable options we could get our hands on. Ford sent along a Bronco Wildtrak. The Wrangler? It was Jeep's classic Rubicon model. Both were fairly well matched for this ...

Brian Deegan Flies His Off-Road Race Truck To Victory On DOT Tires

Photography: HighRev Photo Short-course off-road racing has always been one of the greatest tests of parts there is. There are not the static loads of going around on a paved track. Rather, trucks pound their way through whoops, fly high off of jumps, and, sometimes, they even fly into each ...

Breaking Down Summer Truck Tires vs. All-Season Tires

The Dirt Staff Tires are the unsung heroes of the road. They provide the all-important contact between your truck and the road, and they work hard to keep you moving forward no matter the weather conditions. But with so many options, choosing the right one for your rig can be daunting. 4 Wheel ...

Body Lift vs Suspension Lift: What's the Difference?

Lifting your truck or SUV is a popular mod for those who want increased ground clearance, a different stance, bigger wheels and tires, or to stand out from the crowd. The two most popular methods to do this are a body lift or a suspension lift. Both can be achieved by the use of lift kits. So, ...

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Bilstein 5100 vs Fox 2.0 Performance Shocks [Features Breakdown]

If you're looking to improve the off-road prowess, comfort, or handling of your 4x4, a suspension replacement is one of the best ways to do so. The Bilstein 5100 and Fox 2.0 Performance series options are some of the most popular performance shock absorbers you can get for your off-road ...

Bilstein 5100 vs Bilstein 4600: Shocks Comparison Guide

Choosing the right suspension components significantly affects the ride quality and performance capabilities of any vehicle, both on and off the road. In this article, we'll be covering the Bilstein 5100 and Bilstein 4600 shocks. We'll compare these two shock absorbers, their advantages, and ...

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Best Tires for a Jeep Wrangler Daily Driver In 2022

The Dirt Staff Your workhorse. Your grocery getter. Your school bus. Your daily driver. Whatever you call it, your Jeep needs tires that can take a beating and keep on going. That's why 4 Wheel Parts has put together a list of the best tires for Jeep Wrangler to help you find the perfect match ...

Correct 4x4 Tire Pressure in Any Situation

Photos: John Cappa The easiest, least expensive and most effective modification you can make to any 4x4 to improve off-road performance is to air down the tires . Airing down the tires of your 4x4 increases traction and flotation, reduces ride harshness and can help minimize drivetrain stress. Of ...

Improve Winter Road Traction With Snow Rated Tires And Tire Chains

John Cappa Photography by John Cappa and courtesy of the manufacturers Driving in your car, truck or SUV in winter conditions dictates the need to consider tires that are rated for winter conditions, snow specific tires or tire chains . Which of these you need depends on your vehicle, where you ...

Give The Gift Your Favorite 4x4 And Off-Road Enthusiast Really Wants

John Cappa Photography by Courtesy of the manufacturers If you have a 4x4 and off-road enthusiast in your house we can absolutely guarantee you that they are not hoping for more underwear, socks, a tie or an ugly holiday sweater. Of course it's not easy to shop for these types of people because ...

Best Jeep Wrangler Hard Tops & Hard Top Storage

Jeep's Wrangler debuted in 1986 and brought something cool to the off-roading scene. That is, a removable top. Yes, you can remove the top on a Wrangler, and enjoy a true open-air motoring experience at will. The current JL generation continues this trend. Can you name another vehicle, other than ...

Best Jeep Wrangler Audio & Speaker System Products in 2023

If you've ever owned or driven a Jeep Wrangler, you know what a joy it is, both on and off the road. No matter what you use your Jeep Wrangler for, having the best audio and speaker system will improve your experience every time you sit behind the wheel. In this article, we'll talk about what to ...

Best Aftermarket Parts in 2023 for the Ford Bronco

The iconic Ford Bronco moniker was resurrected in 2021 and has since slowly filled the large shoes left behind by the original. The compact SUV offers a capable off-road package that's lived up to expectations set by off-road enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. However, as with any vehicle, ...

Choose The Best 4x4 Off-Road Overland Camp Solution

Photos: John Cappa Camping off-road in your 4x4 was around long before the overlanding term was coined. Early on, many cool desolate locations, hunting spots and fishing holes required four-wheel drive to get to them, so there certainly wasn't a hotel you could shack up in. You camped with what ...

Beginner's Guide to Suspension: Components & Configuration Options

Whether you're a dedicated off-roader, an experienced racer, or just getting into the basics of four-wheeling, suspension tuning is essential to enhancing your ride and experience. Whether it's improving handling and stability in tight turns or adding extra ground clearance for difficult, rocky ...

Beginner's Guide to Mud Bogging: What Is It & What You Need

Mud bogging is a popular motorsport in the United States and Canada. It involves driving a vehicle through the mud on a race track or course. While mud bogging is a fun activity, getting started isn't always easy. The good news is that 4 Wheel Parts has everything you need to start mud ...

ARB's Portable Air Compressor: Battery-Mounted, Lightweight, and Durable with a One-Gallon Air Tank, Inflation Accessories, and a Convenient Carry Case. Designed with High-Strength Materials for Quiet Operation and Long-Lasting Performance Across Multiple Vehicles

ARB's portable air compressor mounts to your battery with alligator clips, allowing you to easily move it from vehicle to vehicle. The portable kit with a one-gallon air tank and inflation accessories in a durable and convenient carry case. ARB's twin air compressors are constructed of lightweight, ...

ARB Twin Motor High Performance Portable 12 Volt Air Compressor Kit

An Intro to Car Winches: Understanding Types, Capacities & Uses for Off-Road Adventures

No matter how powerful your engine may be, how high your off-roader or truck sits off the ground, and how grippy and knobby your tires are, there comes a time when you can and will get stuck. Getting stuck while on the trails or off them is part and parcel of off-roading. You can bet that every ...

Alternator vs Battery Problems: How to Spot the Difference

Alternators and car batteries work together to start your engine and power your vehicle's accessories. The key difference is that the battery is what powers your vehicle when the engine is not running, whereas the alternator charges the battery and powers the vehicle while it's running. Because ...

Our Project Toyota Tacoma Gets An Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309TCM And PSU-300TCM Subwoofer

Photography: Craig Perronne Third-generation Toyota Tacoma owners have three options when it comes to audio. There is Entune Audio, Entune Audio Plus, or Entune Premium Audio with 6.1- or 8-inch touchscreens. For our Project Taco Truck Tacoma, we made sure to order the TRD Off-Road package. It ...

All Weather Vs All Season Tires - What To Consider 2

The Dirt Staff Tires aren't just those rubbery round rings that you have to top up with air periodically and swear at whenever they go flat. They are what connect your vehicle to the road, and enable it to accelerate, brake, and steer. The best electronics and most competent driver in the world ...

All Weather Vs All Season Tires - What To Consider

Tires aren't just those rubbery round rings that you have to top up with air periodically and swear at whenever they go flat. They are what connect your vehicle to the road and enable it to accelerate, brake, and steer. The best electronics and most competent driver in the world can't manage much ...

The Best Bang For The Buck To Get Out And Explore

Harry Wagner Photography courtesy of the manufacturers Overlanding is the hottest thing in the 4x4 market, and it is easy to see why. You don't need a dedicated off-road vehicle or worry about breaking axle shafts and smashing sheetmetal when you go overlanding; it can easily be done in your ...

Airing down your tires to increase the contact patch is the best thing you can do to improve your vehicle’s prowess in deep snow. We typically run single-digit air pressure on tires like these that have a lot of sidewall and are mounted on beadlock wheels. Airing down not only makes the tire wider but also lengthens the contact patch front-to-back

After The Off-Road Adventure - Vehicle Maintenance Tips

You'll find topics about how to enhance and upgrade various aspects of your vehicle to help it perform better off the beaten track. There are so many areas on off-road vehicles that can be enhanced that it's a veritable rabbit hole to venture down. However, once you've had your fun on the ...

After Off-Roading Guide to Cleaning Your Truck Interior

That weekend off-roading trip may have been a blast. However, are you noticing that the adventure left behind more than good memories? It's no secret that an off-roading experience can lead to dirt, grime, and moisture entering your truck. Fortunately, those stains don't have to be permanent ...

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Which Yokohama Geolandar Tire Is Right For You?

John Cappa Photos: Courtesy of the manufacturers Yokohama offers a full line up of off-road worthy 4x4 tires in the Geolandar family of tires. With four very different Geolandar tires to choose from you can select a tread that fits the exact off-road terrain you and your 4x4 frequent most, or ...

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Winter Tire Buying Guide

Which Are Ideal For Rain & Snow? Photography by Harry Wagner When you think of driving in the snow it may conjure up images in your mind of blasting through huge drifts, but the truth is that most winter driving takes place on icy and snowy roads. The floatation that is necessary in deep ...

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Winching Techniques: Beginners to Advanced Users

Winches turn your off-road vehicle into a rig that conquers even the most dangerous situations. Whether you're off-roading or helping someone who's hit the ditch, winches allow you to pull your vehicle and other vehicles out of hazards. Winches shine in situations where vehicles are stuck in the ...

Will Your Big Tires Rub?

So you want an aggressive off-road look with the biggest tires you can possibly stuff in your fender wells, but you don't want your tires rubbing when you turn. Nothing's worse than a badass looking truck with huge tires sitting still, but can't move because the tires eat away at the inner ...

Will My Lifted Truck Fit In My Garage?

The Dirt Staff It's a glorious day when you finally get that new lift kit, wheels and tires installed on your truck or SUV. You saved your hard earned cash for the good stuff and now you get to reap the benefits of being the coolest guy on the block. To keep that title, make sure you don't wreck ...

Eight Great Reasons To Never Be Stuck Without A Winch

Photography: Harry Wagner If you go off-road, you are going to get stuck. It is not a matter of if, but when, and it doesn't matter if your terrain of choice is rocks, mud, snow, or sand. Front and rear recovery points and a good snatch strap should be your first purchases before you go ...

What Makes Easter Jeep Safari A Must-Attend

The Rubicon Trail. Black Bear Pass. Mojave Road. These are iconic 4x4 destinations and for good reasons. They have it all, from challenging terrain to breathtaking scenery. Moab is no different in this regard. Every year, thousands of Jeep owners gather in Moab, UT for the annual Easter Jeep ...

Why is Torque Important in Off-Roading?

The Dirt Staff Browse through the engine specifications of any vehicle, and you will find two metrics that are a measure of how strong, powerful, potent, amazing, great, competent, you-name-it, an engine is. These two measures are power and torque. Power is typically measured in Horsepower (hp) or ...

Why Are They Called Tonneau Covers?

The word tonneau is French, meaning 'cask' or a large barrel like container made of wood, metal, or plastic, used for storing liquids, typically alcoholic drinks. A tonneau (US: /t??no?/ or UK: /?t?no?/) - that is how it is spelled - is traditionally an auto term for the area of a truck or car ...

The Right Recovery Winch For Your Truck or Jeep

John Cappa Photography by John Cappa and Courtesy of the manufacturers Adding a recovery winch to your 4x4 is one of the best ways to increase the likelihood that you can extract yourself or others from a sticky situation and make it back home as planned. Simply having a recovery winch available ...

Which Trucks Have the Best Gas Mileage?

The DIRT Staff Gas mileage matters to everyone, and it's a common fact that trucks aren't always the best fuel sippers around. In fact, their distinctly un-aerodynamic shape, tall and wide profile, and open bed can all create drag and turbulence, making them the opposite of the sleekest sports ...

Which Jeep Bikini Tops are Best?

If you own a Jeep Wrangler, one of its coolest features is the way it keeps its top on and allows you to take it off at will. Only the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Bronco can boast of proper removable tops, as well as doors, allowing you to enjoy an unmatched open-air experience at will. Truly a ...

The Pros And Cons Of LED Light Mounting Locations

As the days get shorter, the need for some extra illumination on your vehicle becomes obvious. The further you get away from the light pollution of civilization, the darker the nights get. Travel on a deserted road in the backcountry and it is easy to see that your headlights suck. Because of a ...

Wheel Spacers Can Solve Tire Rubbing Issues

John Cappa Photography by John Cappa Installing wheel spacers on your 4x4 is an inexpensive upgrade that can help keep larger than stock tires from rubbing on your 4x4 Jeep, truck or other SUV. They can also help increase vehicle stability through a wider stance. Wheel spacers are generally ...

Is It Better To Start From Scratch

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner How many parts can you replace on your vehicle before it isn't the same vehicle anymore? When does it lose its soul? Do 4x4s even have souls??? These were the questions that kept me awake recently when thinking about my father's 1967 FJ40 Land Cruiser ...

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Read This Before Buying Your Next Set Of Wheels

Two of the most widely misunderstood, misused and incorrectly interchanged terms in the aftermarket 4x4 wheel world are wheel backspacing and wheel offset. They both relate to the location of a factory or aftermarket wheel on the wheel mounting surface of your 4x4, but as a 4x4 enthusiast only one ...

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What's New: Best Off-Road Winches for 2023 2

Harry Wagner Photography by Richard Giordano In just over a decade, King of the Hammers has exploded into the biggest off-road event on the planet. In fact, the only larger event held on BLM land is Burning Man. And the two have more in common than you might think, from the city-on-a-lakebed ...

What's New: Best Off-Road Winches for 2023

A winch is your guardian angel when you're in trouble on the trails, having got yourself into a sticky situation after some over-enthusiastic off-roading or showboating. An essential piece of equipment for every off-roader, regardless of whether you're a casual, weekend trail cruiser, or a ...

10 Things To Know About The Off-Road Icon

Photography: Craig Perronne Moab holds an almost mythical status among four-wheelers. Like Valhalla or Shangri-La, it seems almost too good to be true. The difference between Moab and those places of lore is that it is indeed real. You can actually go there and don't have to die in a Viking ...

The Basics Of Buying Wheels

One of the most popular modifications for any SUV, truck, or Jeep is a new set of tires and wheels. Even if the rest of the vehicle remains bone stock, the vast majority of us put on some new tires wrapped around swanky new wheels. Better tires provide more traction and puncture resistance, while ...

What You Need to Know About Mass Air Sensors

First of all, what IS a mass air sensor, you ask? The simple definition is it's a small, electronic computer module that sits inside the air tube between your air filter and your engine. It tells your engine's computer how much air is being fed to the engine. The best way to describe ...

A Look Ahead At A Decade In The Dirt

In the constant rush that is life, a lot of things can get lost in the mix. Add in the holidays and things get even worse. Keeping your focus on the future can be hard when you are trying to figure out gifts for social-media dependent teenagers and trying to avoid certain relatives. The almost ...

What Trailer Wire Controls What?

Let there be light. And there was wiring and connectors and bulbs and it was good. Yes kiddies, this time we're going to talk all about trailer wiring and electrical stuff. I know some of you will go running screaming from the room at the mere mention of the word electrical, but trust us it really ...

Adding Onboard Air To Your 4x4

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner Onboard air is one of the most useful accessories you can add to your 4x4. You can buy a new Jeep or truck with locking differentials and all-terrain tires, but no vehicle currently comes from the factory with onboard air. That's ok though because the ...

What You Need To Know Before Buying A Winch

So you've read our story on why you need a winch and are convinced that this is the next big purchase for your 4x4. Picking the right one can be a daunting process though. You can start by first determining what size winch you need. A good rule of thumb is to select a winch with a rating one and ...

The Features That Matter Most For Truck Bumpers

Most factory bumpers are pretty flimsy affairs nowadays. With truck manufacturers obsessed with getting the most gas mileage possible out of their vehicles, many are as lightweight as possible. Crash tests and crumple zones also play a role in making bumpers expendable items. That might be fine ...

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What To Look For In A Shock

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner and courtesy of the manufacturers When you shop for a new suspension , your primary considerations are likely how much lift it provides and how big of a tire you can fit. But what about the ride quality? Shock absorbers damp the effects of dips and ...

Everything You Need To Know Before You Buy A Bumper For Your Jeep

Owning a Jeep Wrangler can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, there is an abundance of aftermarket support for the JK (and increasingly the JL and Gladiator as well) for everything from suspension lifts to engine swaps. On the other hand, all of those options can be a bit ...

Rubicon Express Jeep Wrangler TJ Upgrades

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner The four-link coil suspension introduced on the Jeep TJ Wrangler in 1997 (five links if you include the track bar) was a dramatic improvement over the leaf springs used on the YJ Wrangler. This same suspension is found on ZJ Grand Cherokees and the ...

Knowledge Before Altitude

Lifting a truck, Jeep, SUV, El Camino, or whatever you own is one of the most common modifications there is. Some do it to fit larger tires for better ground clearance and performance on the trail. Others just want to look good cruising down the street in their brand new ride rolling on some ...

Do You Know What Should Be In Your Vehicle For Winter?

Whether you are commuting, taking a holiday road trip, or going off-road, there are a few things you should have packed in your 4x4 for winter. Some of these items should be in your 4x4 year-round, while others are winter exclusive or specific to what you have planned. There is no way of knowing ...

What to Expect from the 2024 Jeep Wrangler

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe allows Jeep to continue pushing boundaries regarding functionality and the blend of off-roading and electrification. Jeep has seemed to include some promising features in this iteration. According to Stellantis , the Jeep Wrangler 4xe has become the nation's ...

Inspect Your Rig Before You Break It

Photography: Richard Giordano and Harry Wagner As the weather warms up and much of the country thaws out, many people start to think about spending time out exploring and camping. That might mean that your 4x4 comes out of hibernation in the garage, or perhaps you have been using it as your ...

And How To Carry It

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner Figuring out what to bring with you on the trail can be a challenge. Pack too light and you might go hungry or be freezing when the sun drops behind the mountains. Pack too heavy though and you run out of space, must dig through everything you brought to ...

How Much Lift You Need To Run Bigger Tires

It's been universally accepted that the 2018-current Jeep JL is a better Wrangler than the 2017-18 JK Wrangler. Beyond the swanky new interior, one of the most notable improvements is the suspension and steering. Much like the rest of the JL, these components are more refined versions of what is ...

How Much Lift You Need To Run Bigger Tires On Jeep's New Truck

If you've got a 2020 Jeep Gladiator, you're likely already itching to lift it and install larger tires. The Jeep JT pickup is built with modifications in mind and it has rather smallish tires from the factory. Don't get us wrong. It's not that the tires are small by OE standards. But instead, the ...

What Jeeps Can Be Flat Towed?

The Dirt Staff With summer just around the corner, the season of road trips is fast approaching. What's a great way to take a road trip? In an RV, of course. You don't need to worry about carrying and setting up camping equipment, or booking hotels and motels along the way, as you literally take ...

Five Upgrades You Need To Have

Photography by Harry Wagner Big tires are awesome. It doesn't matter if they are on a Samurai or a one-ton truck, we love the look of big, aggressive meats on our 4x4s. In order for them to work as good as they look though, you need to make some upgrades to your vehicle. Those include not only ...

The 2019 Rebelle Rally Is Like No Other

Photography: Nicole Dreon, Paolo Baraldi, Tim Calver, and Richard Giordano During most off-road racing in North America, from Baja to King of the Hammers, navigators heavily rely on GPS units. They not only direct the driver as to where to go, but also alert them to any approaching dangerous ...

One Of The Best Off-Road Performance Mods You Can Make Explained

Despite the term four-wheel drive, most vehicles with transfer cases don't actually transfer power to all four tires. Differentials sit where the drive shafts mate to the axles. As the name implies, differentials allow for the tires to rotate at different speeds. This difference is necessary as an ...

Everything You Need To Keep Your Cool

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner They say that the human body is 60% fluid. Your 4x4 doesn't have that much fluid in it, but the host of fluids are still vital to ensure that your vehicle functions properly. While we don't expect you to carry a full oil change with you on the trail, spare ...

Keeping Your Jeep Steered Straight

Death Wobble. The name alone strikes fear into the heart of even the most grizzled, hardcore Jeeper. The introduction of four-link suspensions used on Jeep Cherokees starting in 1984 and Wranglers beginning in 1997 provided a better ride, along with far more articulation and wheel travel, than the ...

What Are The Different Types Of Hitches 2

The Dirt Staff If you're going to be towing something, especially a trailer, you'll definitely need a tow hitch or trailer hitch to attach it to. In this article, we'll take you through the five most common types of hitch, how they are mounted to your vehicle, and any considerations you should ...

What are the Different Types of Hitches

If you're going to be towing something, especially a trailer, you'll definitely need a tow hitch or trailer hitch to attach it to. In this article, we'll take you through the five most common types of hitch, how they are mounted to your vehicle, and any considerations you should take. Of course, ...

It's Official: The Dirt Is Live!

Welcome to The Dirt! We are now officially launched and live on the World Wide Web. So, just what exactly is The Dirt? Some like to refer to it as a content portal. Others call it a website within a website. Truthfully, none of that really matters much as our mission is the same regardless. We are ...

WaterPORT Weekender 8 Gallon Kit

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A JT with a Wish List Full of Parts

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner When Jeep introduced the four-door JK Wrangler with its 116-inch wheelbase some purists scoffed that it was way too long for serious trail use, but we see ten four door JKs for every two-door out on the trail. The same was said about the Gladiator and ...

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Battery Tech And More

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner and courtesy of the manufacturers Your 4x4 likely came off the assembly line with a single lead acid battery and a single alternator that generates around 90 amps. For the average driver who sticks to paved roads, this is perfectly adequate. Start ...

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Types of Off-Roading Terrains

Whether you're someone who likes to go for a light off-roading adventure on the weekends or you're an avid off-road enthusiast, there's nothing better than taking your off-roader out in the wilderness to just unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. That being said, off-roading terrains come in all ...

Types of Jeep Wrangler Tops How to Care for Each

The Jeep Wrangler is an amazing vehicle for the outdoorsy lifestyle because it offers something that no other vehicle could do — that is, until Ford unveiled its Bronco revival. What are we talking about? The ability to remove the roof and doors and experience a fantastic open-air motoring ...

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Making The Ultimate Family Jeep

Photography: Craig Perronne If you are into Jeeps, you're probably familiar with Currie Enterprises. Founded by family patriarch Frank Currie in 1959, the then-fledgling company started by working out of Frank's garage. In the late 1970s, Frank's three sons Charlie, John and Ray entered into the ...

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Truck Racks: Why Are They Called Headache Racks?

Racks (the kind for vehicles, that is) are indispensable accessories to fit to any truck or off-roader if you're planning to enhance its versatility and aesthetic. But did you know that a certain kind of truck rack, known as the headache rack, can benefit the safety of your truck's occupants as ...

Which is Best for You?

You may already own a 4x4 truck or Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with the intention of modifying it to make it more capable on the trails and stand out from the crowd. Or maybe you are looking to purchase your next 4WD vehicle and want to consider all of your options. Either way, we are going to ...

Truck Heating Common Problems & Solutions

The heater is an invaluable system for any vehicle that's used in chilly areas. While those who are in warmer climes may never turn the temperature dial towards the red side, those living further up north rely on it immensely. In fact, your heater can be considered a life-saver in your truck, as ...

Who Will Come Out On Top?

By now, everyone in the galaxy has heard about the new Jeep JL. The advent of the latest generation Wrangler has generated a huge amount of media attention - and for good reasons. Purists and off-road enthusiasts wanted to make sure that Jeep didn't take away any of its capability in the dirt. ...

The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

Photography: Craig Perronne In our minds, we are all rugged individualists. We forge our own path and do our own thing. We don't follow trends or care about the latest craze. Part of the appeal of hitting the trail and owning a 4x4 is that not everyone does it. People can drive around in their ...

What To Avoid With Your Suspension

We have all made mistakes. Whether it that annoying third wife, a particular night in Vegas that nobody speaks of in public, or that tribal tattoo you thought would make you so cool, all of us have done things that we regret. Making mistakes is just part of life. If you haven't made a few, you ...

Are All-Terrain Tires Better Than Mud-Terrains For You?

All-terrains tires are not as flashy or sexy as their mud-terrain brethren. They don't have the super-aggressive tread patterns with large voids and big lugs that so many desire. But how a tire looks is only one of the many factors that need consideration before making a purchase. Actually, looks ...

Learn From Our Mistakes Before Making Them

We are not here to bash on newbies or rookies at all. That is in no way the intent of this article. Sure, some might enjoy to poking fun at the inexperienced. But all of us were once (or even still are) fairly new to spending any time in the dirt. Getting made fun of for simply being new to ...

Making Your Truck Bed Even More Versatile

A truck's bed is about as simple as it gets. Basically, it is a big metal box with no lid that you put stuff in. Some manufacturers, like Toyota, have experimented with different materials to construct them. Others, like Ram with its innovative RamBox, have tried to put a slightly different spin ...

Checking Out The Diesel Brothers' Latest Build

The Diesel Brothers are known for doing big things and building even bigger trucks. Builds like the Mega Ram Runner, the BroDozer, the F-650 Super Truck, and the Kodiak Monster all turn heads wherever they go. When the Diesel Brothers teamed up with 4WP, we knew that big things would be on the ...

Sara Price's Journey To The Mint 400

Even though she is just 26 years old and may seem like a fresh face to some, Sara Price's journey to The Mint 400 has been a long one. It began 18 years ago when she first swung a leg over a dirt bike. Ever since then, racing in the dirt has played a significant role in her life. She claimed 19 ...

The donor Jeep JK was a 2008 with a 3.8L V6 under its hood. The engine is widely regarded as underpowered, but the Daystar crew didn’t want to go through the hassle of swapping out the entire drivetrain. Instead of yanking it, they woke it up with a Sprintex supercharger. Also visible under the hood is an Odyssey battery and an sPod The Source syst

Travis Ball's 1979 F-150

Photography by Harry Wagner Decades ago, the mighty Ford Bronco was a standard sight on the trail, along with Jeep CJs and Toyota Land Cruisers. These vehicles were the first of their kind to offer coil sprung front ends, optional V8 engines, and the legendary Ford 9" rear end. The first ...

The Most Reliable Jeep Engines in 2023

Jeep has made plenty of engines during its long and colorful history. Some are spectacularly engineered powertrains that can go the distance, while Jeep does also have a few less-than-stellar efforts. Let's forget about those for now, and concentrate on the five best Jeep engines as of 2023. This ...

An Aggressive Mud-Terrain That Can Still Live On The Street

Photography: Craig Perronne Maxxis makes a huge range of tires for everything from motorcycles to mountain bikes. When it comes to off-road tires, Maxxis is probably best known for producing extremely aggressive tires like the Trepador, and Creepy Crawler. Built for all-out performance, they can ...

Fab Fours Builds One Insane Chevy Colorado

Challenges are something we all face in life. Whether it is work-related, personal, or something else, life has a funny way of throwing obstacles into our paths. When that happens, there are usually two options. One is to roll over, admit defeat, and fall back to a comfortable, known place in life. ...

The Guide For All-Terrain Jeep Tires

The DIRT Staff There's a popular saying that goes "all the software, electronics, and hardware in the world can't take you as far as the right set of tires can". This rings true one hundred percent because your tires are the contact patch between your vehicle and the ground. No matter how much ...

A Versatile Mud-Terrain

The original General Grabber quickly became known for its survivability in the desert. Used by multiple race teams in both the SCORE and Best in the Desert racing series, the Grabber was adept at resisting punctures, providing traction, and handling being spun by lots of horsepower. It propelled ...

The Five Fundamentals of Truck Tire Wear

The Dirt Staff Just like any other auto part, your truck tires will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. But when it comes time to get your tires replaced, do you really know what you're looking for? If not, don't worry – 4 Wheel Parts has you covered. Here are the five ...

The Difference between Rock Sliders vs Side Steps

Off-road vehicle owners rarely leave their vehicles in stock condition. The market is full of accessories that improve off-road vehicle protection, functionality, and practicality. The majority of these accessories are designed for the exterior of the vehicle, and for good reason. SUVs, trucks, ...

Our Favorite Overland and Camping 4x4s At The Show

John Cappa We jumped at the chance to spend the day ogling the 4x4s, campers, adventure trailers and other vehicles and gear at the first annual Four Wheeler Adventure Expo in Costa Mesa, California, at the OC Fair & Event Center. What was once known as off-road adventuring and camping is ...

The Complete Guide to Airing Down Off-Road Tires

The Dirt Staff The very notion of airing down your tires may seem counterproductive in the broader scope of driving. We've heard many stories of poor fuel economy, reduced handling dynamics, increased tire wear, and even blowouts caused by driving on under-inflated tires. However, all these ...

A Preview Of BFG's Latest Tire

There is an influx of questionable new tires on the market. Many are from manufacturers we've never heard of before. Most are overseas tires that any company can just put their name on. "Development" of those tires basically consists of picking whatever tread pattern looks best and coming up with ...

A Versatile And Premium Top For The Jeep Wrangler JK

Soft tops and Jeeps go together like peanut butter and jelly. The whole point of owning a Jeep is to take the top off and enjoy warmer weather and the great outdoors. But going completely topless can leave you a bit too exposed to the elements. The sun constantly beating down on you eventually ...

The Best Winches from WARN in 2023

Choosing the right winch is critical for your off-road adventures. Even if you don't venture far off the beaten trail, the right winch can offer assistance to a fellow off-roader when they are in dire straits. Needless to say, a winch is one of the most basic pieces of equipment for upgrading your ...

Easy Ways To Add Extra Lumens To Your Jeep

If you've been behind the wheel of a 2007-18 Jeep Wrangler JK on a blacked out night with the factory halogen headlights, then you likely know they rival the dull yellow lumen output of a candle-powered miners helmet from the 1800s. Of course, some lucky JK buyers were able to opt for the factory ...

What To Get For Those That Hit The Trail

The holidays are a magical time filled with family, friends, eggnog, weird relatives, and pure joy. Or they are a living nightmare filled with harsh weather, scrambling for last-minute gifts, fighting grown men over Dora The Explorer dolls, tons of traffic, and weird relatives. Some people enjoy ...

The Parts You Need To Get Your Jeep Dirty

Congratulations! If you are reading this article chances are that you have a shiny new Jeep Wrangler JL sitting in your drive. Or, maybe you are like us and are just dreaming of getting one. Either way, the Jeep JL is a solid choice for anyone looking to hit the dirt. Like its predecessor, the JK, ...

What You Need To Know About Batteries

Most of us focus on upgrading our 4x4s to avoid being stranded. When venturing far from help, it's worthwhile to invest in fending off breakage. If axles can't be adequately strengthened, they are swapped for even stouter ones. Weak factory tires are replaced with ones that can take a beating ...

Is This The Best Jack For The Trail?

For decades the handyman jack has been a staple on the trail, but now ARB has built a better mousetrap. Handyman jacks, or trail jacks , are relatively inexpensive, tough as nails, and simple. So is the ARB JACK (while confusing, it is actually called JACK) a product looking for a solution to a ...

North To The Last Great Frontier

For as long as I can remember traveling to Alaska, the last frontier, and being able to experience its endless forests, snowcapped mountains, and plentiful wildlife has been on my bucket list. Visiting Alaska and wheeling some of the trails? That was just a dream. So, when I got the phone call ...

Where To Go, Who To Watch, And Who Will Win

The Baja 500 is a great race to go check out in person. Always run in a loop, it is a lot easier to take in the action compared to the Baja 1000. Unlike the peninsula runs of the Baja 1000, you don't have to travel vast distances to see the race. And, since it is "only" 500 miles, most of it takes ...

Off-Road Capability Straight From The Factory

This is the golden age for off-road capability. At no other time in our history have we been able to plunk down our hard-earned cash on such a skilled group of new 4X4s. Locking differentials, increased wheel travel, and potent engines are the norm when it comes to off-road packages on new 4X4s. ...

How To Tell The Difference in Fox Shocks.

Kathryn Reinhardt Photos: Courtesy of Fox and 4WP Do you remember riding in a school bus as a kid? If you sat in the back of the bus with the cool kids like we did, then you know that ride was rough. School buses aren't known for their superior suspension and handling, but what about our ...

We Put Mickey Thompson's Latest Mud-Terrain Tire To The Test

Mickey Thompson Tires have long been at the forefront of the off-road tire market. Two decades ago, Mickey Thompson extended the tread down the sidewall with its Sidebiters. Now, almost every new tire does the same. While tires continue to get larger, Mickey Thompson introduced their ...

Can Ford's New Ranger Out-Muscle the Mid-Size Competition?

The original Ranger debuted in 1983 and was Ford's first domestically designed, engineered, and produced compact pickup truck. Until then, if Blue Oval fans wanted a small truck they were forced to buy a re-badged version of a Mazda called the Courier. And that pickup never came from the factory ...

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Does The Reigning Midsize Off-Road Champ Retain The Crown?

No other truck manufacturer has had a long-standing commitment to small pickup off-road capability like Toyota. It all started in 1979 when the company launched the world's first compact 4WD pickup. Thanks to backcountry and Baja race experience, Toyota's trucks remained the most capable in their ...

Still America's Best Off-Road Truck

When Ford ended production of the last-generation Raptor back in 2015 it left a hole, a Grand Canyon-sized chasm in the 4WD market. That's because no other 4X4 sold in North America had the Raptor's unique blend of talents. The beefy Ford offered fullsize pickup utility perfectly blended with ...

Ram's Most Off-Road Capable Truck

The late 1970s may have been a bad time for horsepower and torque, but the disco decade produced some incredibly wild special edition trucks. Some of these sticker packages were a little strange and more than a few could be classified as downright lame, but, a handful of them qualify as awesome. ...

Diesel vs. Gas - Is The EcoDiesel V6 A Better Off Roader?

Ben Stewart Photography by Ram Truck and Ben Stewart It's no surprise to truck enthusiasts that the Ram brand is a certified heavy hitter when it comes to building off-road packages. For the last fifteen years, FCA's truck people have given us the insanely capable and comfortable Power Wagon. It's ...

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Suspension Lift Versus Body Lift

Photos: John Cappa and Courtesy of the Manufacturers Most 4x4 enthusiasts are absolutely itching to make their first modification on a new truck or SUV. One of the most popular aftermarket modifications around is the installation of a lift kit with larger tires and wheels . A suspension lift ...

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Thin Air In The Sweetwater Range

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner Spanning over 400 miles, the Sierra Nevada Range is the most famous mountain range on the west coast. It includes three national parks, twenty wilderness areas, and two national monuments. It is also home to the largest alpine lake in North America (Lake ...

Tips For Wheeling With A Manual Transmission

Photography by Harry Wagner We have heard manual transmissions referred to as "millennial theft prevention" since they are becoming so rare. In fact, only about one percent of new vehicles sold in 2022 have manual transmissions. The good news is, several of the best 4x4 options on the market are ...

Steel Vs Alloy Wheels - Which Are Better?

The Dirt Staff If you're in the market for new wheels, you may be wondering whether alloy or steel wheels are the better options. From the everyday driver to the off-road-focused enthusiast, 4WP has the info wheels you need to take your Jeep to new heights. Of course, everyone has different ...

Which Wheel Material Is Right For You?

Photos: John Cappa and Courtesy of the Manufacturers There are hundreds of different wheel companies that offer thousands of distinctive wheel designs in a multitude of dimensions and lug patterns. Let's forget the common wheel selection considerations and focus solely on materials, though. ...

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Experience Mexico's Gran Desierto de Altar with the Sonora Rally Adventure Raid

If you've dreamed of exploring the land of missions, padres, tacos, and beaches, the 2023 Adventure Raid is your ticket to ride. This year's Raid begins in Hermosillo, joining in the festivities at the start of the Sonora Rally. From there you will thread a path north, exploring the heart of Old ...

Adventure in Mexico's Gran Desierto de Altar

The DIRT Staff If you've been dreaming of exploring Mexico's Gran Desierto Altar—and the pandemic has you pining for a south-of-the-border experience—the Sonora Rally Adventure Raid might be your escape to a world of missions, sand dunes, and tacos. As a Dakar-style venue, the ...

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How To Hook It Up

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner If you go off-road, sooner or later you are going to get stuck. If you are by yourself and don't have the skills and equipment to remedy the situation, this can be a big deal. However, if you carry the appropriate recovery equipment with you and possess ...

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Winter Fun Festival 2022

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner Each year in January, the California Association of 4WD Clubs holds an event in Grass Valley dubbed Winter Fun Festival. Volunteers get permits from the Forest Service, rent out the Grass Valley Fairgrounds, collect entries, cook meals, and lead a host of ...

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Affordable, Reliable, And Packed With Features

Most people don't think they need a winch until they really do. Stuck up to your doors in mud or stranded out in the middle of nowhere is not the time to realize you should have bought a winch. By then it is a bit too late to make any difference. Hopefully, you have a stout tow strap and a friend ...

A Cost-Effective Tonneau Cover For Your Truck

After buying a new truck, one thing you quickly realize is how the exposed bed is completely naked to the sticky hands of thieves. Anybody who walks by can grab whatever they want out of it. And nowadays, there seems to be more people willing to disregard both laws and morals to do just that. ...

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The 411 on Gen3

Harry Wagner Prices seem to be going through the roof for everything these days, but fortunately there are still some things that are a good value. Things like the new Smittybilt Gen3 X20 winch . Note that we didn't say "cheap", which has negative connotations associated with questionable ...

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Smittybilt GEN2 Overlander Roof Top Tent Review

When you're rooftop tent camping, you want to ensure your tent is reliable and heavy-duty. There are a lot of options to choose from. So, we decided to look at one of the top products on the market: the Smittybilt GEN2 Overlander Roof Top Tent . The Smittybilt rooftop tent is a solid ...

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The Jeep Concepts Are Finally Let Loose In Their Natural Environment

Moab and Jeeps go together like peanut butter and jelly. Even the largest off-road event in town, the Easter Jeep Safari, has Jeep in its title. Seven slots have been exploring the rugged and beautiful terrain around Moab even before EJS started way back in 1967. Jeeps helped put Moab on the map ...

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Should You Upgrade Your Brake Pads & Rotors?

The DIRT Staff As you step on the brake pedal and your off-roader comes to a steady halt, have you ever thought about how the brake system works? You may have heard about the pads and rotors, but do you really know what's involved in bringing several thousand pounds of metal, plastic, rubber, and ...

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Which Jeep Wrangler Is Right For You

There has never been a better time to buy a four-door Jeep Wrangler. The new JeepWrangler JL is available at dealerships all over the country, and there is an abundance of used 2007-17 Wrangler JKs on the market too. Both the JK and the JL feature solid axles, coil suspension, and removable tops. ...

Choosing The Right 4x4 Tire Size Is More Than Just Picking What Fits

John Cappa Photos: John Cappa and courtesy of the manufacturers It's universally accepted that 4x4 and off-road enthusiasts want larger tires than what their 4x4 came with stock. So it's understandable that the most common first modification made by a 4x4 and off-road fan is the installation of ...

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Taking On The Toughest Race On The Planet

Photography: Daniel Schenkelberg At just 26 years of age, Sara Price is already an accomplished racer. Starting on two wheels at eight years old, she racked up an impressive 19 amateur titles in motocross. She still holds the record as the most winning female amateur to date. On top of that, ...

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A Simple And Stout Way To Carry A Full-Size Spare On Your Jeep Wrangler

One of the first mods for any Jeep Wrangler owner is a lift and bigger tires . That eventually brings up the dilemma of where to mount a full-size spare tire. The most obvious choice is to put it right where the factory spare was. The problem is that mount wasn't designed to handle the ...

Get Ready For Summer With New Tube Doors For The Jeep JL

Summer is the perfect time to own a Jeep. Actually, all year is but summer is great for blowing the doors off your Jeep and taking off the top. The weather is warm and the days are long. It is time to get out of the cubicle farm and enjoy the great outdoors. And, there is no better vehicle to do ...

A Clean, Modern Bumper For The Jeep JL

The Jeep Wrangler JL is hard to beat. Straight from the factory, it is comfortable, capable, and a more refined version of its predecessor. If we had to pick a vehicle to drive to Moab, take on almost any trail, and then drive back home, the Jeep JL would be the one. There are very few vehicles ...

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More Altitude For The Jeep Gladiator

One of the most hyped vehicles of 2020 is, without a doubt, the Jeep Gladiator. Thankfully, the new Gladiator has lived up to every bit of the hype. Jeep has done a great job of merging a pickup bed with a JL chassis. And, you can still blow the doors off of it and go topless just like you can ...

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The Hoonigan Long Beach takeover

The Dirt Staff Photography by Daniel Schenkelberg Well, if you haven't seen it yet, RJ is back! Bigger, better and in a completely new unreleased as of yet Polaris RZR PRO R. The world hasn't felt quite the same without RJ Anderson taking a RZR up and down lines that would make Evil Knievel ...

A Clean And Custom Build

Most people know RJ Anderson as the madman behind the wheel of the Polaris RZR in the insane XP1K video series. He is also a professional off-road short-course racer that has over 100 career podiums and 5 championships to his name. It might surprise some, but RJ is also just a regular guy that has ...

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RJ37 Off Road Takes Over An Out Of This World Dirt Playground

The DIRT Staff Photos: Daniel Schenkelberg Video: Bryant Lambert, Walker and BelieveCam Off-road racing phenom RJ Anderson and his brother Ronnie Anderson are back with a whole new edit and this time, it's out of this world! You might remember seeing XP1K years ago as RJ set a new bar for ...

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Which JK is Right For You?

Ben Stewart Photos by Ben Stewart and Jeep The JK is easily the most popular and successful Wrangler of all time. These Jeeps were sold from the 2007 model year up until 2018 when they wore a "JK Wrangler" decal on their fenders and were offered alongside the all-new JL. In the U.S., Jeep moved ...

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A Clean, Modern Looking Aluminum Step

Trucks, SUVs, and 4x4s sit higher than almost every car out there (lifted El Caminos being the obvious exception). Just like the sun sets in the west, it is a fact that there is no getting around. This increase in height can make getting into a modern 4x4 or truck challenging for some. Throw a ...

Stylish Steps And Protection For The JT

It is no secret that we are fans of the Jeep Gladiator. Adding a truck bed to the Jeep Wrangler platform seems so right. Of course, the Gladiator has it haters just like the four-door Wrangler Unlimited did when it first came out. But the decision to add more doors to the Wrangler was the right ...

A Slim Fitting Winch Bumper For Late-Model Trucks

Modern trucks are entirely different from their predecessors. Gone are the rough and rugged work trucks of the past with bench seats, three-speed automatics, and the ride quality of a Sherman tank. Trucks that are incredibly luxurious, very comfortable, and still plenty capable have replaced them. ...

Replace Your Squishy Suspension Bushings With Polyurethane

Life off-road can be pretty hard on parts. Axles snap, tires get flattened, and sheet metal can get smashed. There is a lot that can break or get destroyed on the trail. And, there are a lot of parts that can simply wear out over time. Off-road use definitely accelerates wear and tear, but this ...

Adding Protection And Style To Your Truck

There is nothing worse than hearing a rock bounce off the paint of your brand new truck. That horrible pinging sound usually means at least a chip in the paint. In a worst-case scenario there can even be a small dent. Throw a lift and some larger tires on and this dinging can become a regular ...

Extra Large PowerSteps For Extra Tall Rigs

Amp Research's patented PowerSteps are the original powered, retractable running boards. They have come as OEM factory options on high-end trucks and SUVs since 2003. Not wanting to rest on their laurels though, Amp Research upped their game with the PowerStep XL. It is perfectly suited for ...

Easy Access To Your Bed's Contents

You know the advantages of installing a lift kit on your truck. A lift makes room for bigger tires, adds clearance, and gives aggressive looks. The downside is that it is more difficult to access the contents of your pickup's bed. You need a lift kit for yourself! Enter AMP Research and their ...

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We Put Pro Comp's All-Terrain To The Test

Photography: Craig Perronne Life would be much easier for tire companies if we only wanted maximum puncture-resistance and traction. They could easily fill those needs by designing extremely aggressive tires with huge voids, sticky compounds, and lots of sidewall plies. While that might be great ...

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We've Got You Covered (And Your Truck Also)

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner and courtesy of the manufacturers The bed is the defining feature that makes a pickup truck a truck. They can be filled with everything from a load of firewood to motorcycles and even help your friends move (friends always seem to call the guy with the ...

Which Roof Rack Or Bed Rack Is Right For You?

John Cappa Photography by Courtesy of the manufacturers It's no secret that vehicle roof racks and pickup truck overland bed racks have become more popular than ever. The recent mainstream addiction to overlanding and general 4x4 camping has led to the need for even more cargo space and ...

4WP Can Help You Make The Most Of Your Summer!

John Cappa Photography by Courtesy of the manufacturers If you're like most Americans, you're more than likely tired of being cooped up in 2020! You're probably just itching to get outdoors this summer. Your open-air adventure is certainly simplified with access to a 4x4, but 4WP can make your ...

Build Your Truck Better

If you're reading this, you likely own a truck. Congratulations on owning one of the most versatile vehicles ever made. Trucks have come a long way from the stripped down, rough-riding utilitarian vehicles they once were. Today's modern truck is an extremely comfortable place to spend time. ...

Stock Up On The Best Winter Performance Parts

John Cappa Photos: John Cappa and courtesy of the manufacturers Even though it may seem like winter is almost over, many areas see the most snowfall in the months of February and March. All through winter you're probably glad you've had a 4x4 in these locations, but it will be especially true ...

Cool and Crazy Customs From The City Of Sin

Every year companies do their best to grab attention at the SEMA Show. With 100,000 people and seemingly almost as many vehicles, getting attention at the annual show held in Las Vegas can be difficult. The attention-seeking can take the form of chromed-out show trucks, hot rods, concept vehicles, ...

The Recovery Gear That We Always Carry

There is an old adage that goes, "If you aren't getting stuck, you aren't trying hard enough." Part of the appeal of going out into remote environments far from Starbucks and cell phone service is the confidence of knowing that you can handle whatever is in front of you. This sense of ...

An Epic Week Of Racing In Sin City

Photography: HighRev Photo And Mint 400 Usually, we roll our eyes when someone wants to share their photos with us from a trip to Las Vegas. We have already seen plenty of photographs of all the crappy clubs, overpriced drinks, swanky hotel rooms, skanky outfits, and how much you ate at the ...

Keeping It Clean And Mean

While it may seem simple, building a vehicle can be surprisingly difficult. We aren't just talking about the amount of effort it takes to install a suspension or other parts. Sure, all of that takes time. But what can be even more difficult is knowing when to stop. Slap way too many parts on a ...

Fab Fours Builds A Monster

Photography: Craig Perronne Jeeps and Moab go together like peanut butter and jelly. This is for a good reason as Moab has plenty of steep ledges, climbs, and drop offs that make the tidy trail dimensions of a Jeep ideal. The larger rear overhang that a fullsize pickup bed brings usually means ...

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Is Vintage Iron Or Modern Convenience Right For You?

Photography: Harry Wagner Vintage is all the rage right now, from using distressed wood in home-building to growing a beard and dressing like a lumberjack. Of course, to complete the look you need a retro 4x4, like an Early Bronco, FJ40 Land Cruiser, or Jeep Grand Wagoneer. All these vehicles have ...

Top Trail Tools You Need To To Fix Your Rig

John Cappa Photography by Agustin Jimenez What are the right tools to pack in your rig? That's a good question but what exactly do you need and why should you bring it along? Regardless of if you're going for ride up your favorite trail, hitting the highway for summer vacation or just making your ...

Aftermarket Parts That Keep Thieves Away From Your 4x4 Truck Or SUV

John Cappa Photos: John Cappa and Courtesy of the manufacturers Once you've invested time and money to modify your 4x4 truck or SUV, the last thing you want is for thieves to make off with your new parts. There are also several aftermarket upgrades that can help keep tools, camping equipment ...

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Is the Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Cover Right For You?

If you're reading this then it's safe to assume you are trying to find out what the best hard tonneau cover is for your truck bed and for your needs. We'll try to help you out. We've been selling and installing truck bed covers for over 27 years and we've tried almost every brand in the USA at ...

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Increasing Your Truck's Towing Capacity

The Dirt Staff So you got a truck and now you want to pull some stuff around with it. Do you know your truck's towing capacity? If not, you need to find out. It's kind of like the first thing you need to know before attaching anything to your hitch. If your truck is rated to tow 8,000lbs. and ...

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Which Is Best For You?

Photography by Harry Wagner Which is better, independent front suspension (IFS) or a solid front axle ? It is a debate as old as time itself, and it may never be resolved, but that doesn't mean that we won't try. The truth is that both have their advantages, and their disadvantages, depending ...

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Put Your Tax Return Cash To Work On Your 4x4

Photos: John Cappa and Courtesy of the Manufacturers It's tax time, and fortunately that means tax refunds for many of us. The average tax refund for the 2022 tax year is said to be 3,039 dollars. That's up 7.5 percent from 2021, which means you'll have more tax refund money than ever to ...

Which Are The Best 2021 Bronco Options And Why

John Cappa Photos: Courtesy of the manufacturers The introduction of the 2021 Ford Bronco has added another new midsize SUV option to the off-road and 4x4 enthusiast serving platter. For years Jeep and Toyota have hoarded the market. Of course Ford fans rejoiced at the return of the Bronco, but ...

What Options Are Worth It And What Would We Skip?

The all-new Jeep Gladiator is easily the hottest new truck to hit the market this year. The nearly $63,000 Launch Edition sold out in less than twenty-four hours. Demand is so robust for the Gladiator that some dealers across the country are marking up these trucks by thousands of dollars. That's ...

Tactics For Taking On The Sticky Stuff

Photography: Harry Wagner Mud can easily be one of the most treacherous types of terrain you encounter and is definitely the messiest. We would not advise traveling through anything but the shallowest of mud puddles in a stock vehicle, especially if it is shod with all-season tires. Doing so ...

Selecting And Safely Using The Most Popular Piece Of Recovery Gear

We often talk about the benefits of adding a winch to your vehicle. They are a valuable piece of equipment that can get you out of situations where nothing else will help. For most recovery situations, a quality snatch strap will get the job done. Straps are not only less expensive, but they also ...

What You Need To Know About Winching.

A winch is arguably the best addition you can make to your vehicle to get you out of trouble. Locking differentials will get you further down the trail, big tires provide a lot of traction, but when both of those fail you, a winch can keep you moving. Despite this power, many people on the ...

The Best And Safest Ways To Use An Essential Off-Road Tool

There are few tools for your 4x4 that are as tough, versatile, and inexpensive as the ubiquitous Hi-Lift jack. The basic design by Bloomfield Manufacturing dates back over 100 years. Cast steel construction and a 7,000-lb. capacity means that the Hi-Lift you buy could last you the next 100 years. ...

Everything You Need To Know About Snow Wheeling

Photography by Harry Wagner Old man winter has arrived with a vengeance in most parts of the country. But that doesn't mean that you have to store your 4x4 in the garage until spring. On the contrary, wheeling in the snow can be a whole lot of fun in everything from a stock truck to a fully ...

The Best Ways To Protect Your Investment

Photography: Craig Perronne We get a lot of questions about tires. It makes a lot of sense; tires are a major purchase. More than likely, you are going to be spending at least $1,000 when it comes time to replace your tires. That is some pretty big coin for any of us. As the only part of our ...

How to Store Tires and Wheels Between Seasons

The Dirt Staff Swapping out your winter setup for a summer one, or vice versa? Here's how to store your tires and wheels so they're in tip-top shape when you need them again. If you're like most people, you probably don't give much thought to how you store your tires and wheels between seasons. ...

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Decoding The Information On Your Tire's Sidewall

When you are looking for new tires for your 4x4, the first thing you are drawn to is likely just how big and aggressive a tire is. Tires vary in more than just size and tread pattern, though. There are many different factors that make up a tire. Each and every one will affect how well it works ...

How To Plug A Tire - Repair Your Overland Vehicle

The Dirt Staff In current years, overlanding has become increasingly popular. This is in part due to the rise of social media, as well as the popularity of off-road vehicles. Because of this, there are now more people than ever who are looking for information on how to repair their own overland ...

Fixing A Tire On The Trail Is Easier Than You Think

Whether you drive over road debris or go wheeling in sharp rocks like shale, flat tires happen even to the best tires . That doesn't mean that you need to hide in the corner at home though or have AAA on speed dial. Like nearly any situation, the difference between success and failure comes down ...

Camp Essentials For Your First Dirt Adventure

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner You have the 4x4, the lift kit , big tires and the roof rack . But how do you take that first step into getting out and using all of this gear? Don't worry, keep reading for valuable tips on how to plan your first overland trip, ensure that it is a ...

How to Plan Truck Camping Trips: What You'll Need

If baseball is the all-American pastime, then camping must be a close second. Nothing is as relaxing as a campfire, and living with the bare necessities makes you feel alive and independent. One of the most convenient ways to camp is by loading all your gear and supplies into a truck that has ...

The Basics Of Shock Selection

Without shock absorbers on our suspension systems, our 4x4s would be unmanageable handfuls on the road and nearly undrivable at any speed off-road. The job of a shock absorber is to manage and control suspension movement. All modern shock absorbers feature a tubular shock body filled with oil, a ...

What To Look For When Selecting LED Lights

If you've driven off-road at night, or even down a poorly-lit road with only your headlights, then it's very likely that you understand the need for aftermarket off-road lights. It's also likely that the aftermarket lights you've considered include LED lights. LED off-road lights will help you see ...

What To Know Before Buying All-Terrain Tires

No other tire is as universally successful and as accepted both on and off the road as an all-terrain. It is the daily-driver go-to workhorse option among 4x4 and off-road enthusiasts. You'll find all-terrain tires on Jeeps, 1/2-ton pickups, 1-ton tow rigs, full-size SUVs, overland campers, ...

Which Tonneau Cover Will Work Best For You

The best selling vehicle in America for over 35 years is the Ford F-Series truck. Right behind it is the Chevrolet Silverado followed by the Ram. It is easy to see that Americans love their trucks and for good reasons. The modern truck is about as versatile as a vehicle as you can get. It can haul ...

how to perform a recovery 2

How to Perform a Recovery

Tis the season! Not just for eggnog and mistletoe, but for snow, sleet, and icy road conditions. Off-roaders are often stereotyped as being lawless and running over anything in their path, but you have the opportunity to give the general public a good impression of off-roaders by helping someone ...

Tips To Keep You Alive And In One Piece On The Trail

As if trying to keep alive every day while living at least a halfway exciting life isn't hard enough, adding off-roading to your adventure activities certainly won't increase your chances of keeping your boots above ground. Most of us plan to live long fruitful lives, become a grandparent, retire ...

What You Will Need To Run Big Tires On Your Jeep JK

It's no secret, the Jeep JK is the darling of the aftermarket. Bypass shocks, loads of suspension travel, tons of armor, lights, bumpers and whatever else you can think of can be bolted to Jeep JK without much effort. Anything from basic to completely ballistic is available for the JK. If ...

How to Lift Your Truck on a Budget

Lifting your truck is one of the best ways to have it sitting higher, more imposing, and an avenue towards fitting a larger set of wheels and tires for that butch look. We've all seen lifted trucks and wondered how to get about it. What's the truck lift cost involved? How much does it cost to ...

Suspension Options For Your Taco

Harry Wagner Photography by Harry Wagner The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most popular platforms for off-road use, but let's be honest here: they come with pretty puny tires. New 4x4 Tacoma's come from the factory with wimpy P-Metric tires that are only 30.5-inches tall, making it easy to confuse ...

How To Install Your Tire & Wheel Package

The DIRT Staff One of the most common upgrades on an off-roader is a set of new tires and wheels. The right set of tires and wheels can enhance the outlook of your vehicle, as well as improve its off-road capabilities. There's a popular saying that goes, "All the electronics and performance ...

How to Install Bushwacker Fender Flares

Bushwacker fender flares are pretty easy to install. Why? One reason is because they fit so good. A lot of aftermarket fender flares just don't line up. You'll spend hours trying to figure out why they just won't line up with the bolt holes. It's because they're cheap. You get what you pay for. ...

How to Install a Jeep Wrangler Soft Top

Since 1986, the Jeep Wrangler has been an iconic model of America's most prolific off-road machine maker. Currently on the fourth generation, known as the JL, the Wrangler offers a fantastic feature that few can match: a removable soft top. The soft top on a Wrangler is arguably its finest ...

How To Improve Your 4x4's Fuel Economy 2

Most of us find the idea of a compact car owner complaining about the price of fuel absurd. A typical compact car has a 12 to 17-gallon fuel tank, which could cost as little as $30 to fill. By comparison, many modern gas and diesel 4x4s feature fuel tanks that are double that size and cost more ...