writer: Sean P. Holman
photographer: Ken Brubaker, Sean P. Holman
Jay's TJ
Jay Albrecht built his Jeep to handle extreme terrain while still maintaining its streetability. He's hoping this combination will work at Top Truck. We're glad you voted him in - not only because his rig is cool, but also because he says he brings Hooter's girls when applicable.
The highlights of the TJ's many modifications include 5 inches added to the frame to create a longer wheelbase and make more room for the big 46-inch tires. The rear bumper and the rocker panel protection are by Creative Engineering, and the front stinger/bumper/winch mount is a collection of Currie and Creative Engineering components. Gone are the factory windshield and rollcage.
The custom coil/four-link front suspension has 8 inches of lift and a full complement of Johnny Joints and spherical rod ends to ensure flexibility. The steering system includes a custom high-steer kit and AGR hydraulic assist. The front axle is a beefy Texas Auto Gear-built Ford 9-inch with Detroit Locker and Wagoner Machine Shop-built chromoly 35-spline axleshafts.
A massive Wagoner Machine Shop-built 14-bolt resides out back, and it features a Detroit Locker, disc brakes and 35-spline axleshafts. Sandwiched between the axle and the frame is a custom three-link suspension that sports Johnny Joints, spherical rod ends, and Skyjacker coils.
It may be overkill, but ya gotta love the 375hp and 425-lb-ft of torque 383ci V-8 engine under the hood. Power is routed through a Turbo 400 transmission with a B&M cooler. Two transfer cases - a Klune V 4:1 and Atlas II 3.8 - allow super low gearing.
The cabin area is devoid of carpet and sports Mastercraft seats and the twin-stick shifter for the transfer cases. Behind the driver is a securely mounted Power Tank, Hi-Lift jack, and fuel cell.
SPECIFICATIONS
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Owner/city:
| Jay Albrecht/Tomball, Texas
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Vehicle:
| 2000 Jeep Wrangler
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What he does when not 'wheeling:
| Oil and gas management
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Engine/aspiration:
| Chevy OHV 383ci V-8/
Holley intake manifold, Holley Stealth Ram MPFI, ceramic-coated headers, 2.5-inch exhaust, el-cheapo muffler
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Transmission:
| Turbo 400, B&M cooler
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Transfer case(s):
| Klune V 4:1, Atlas II 3.8
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Suspension (f/r):
| Custom four-link with 8-inch Skyjacker coils, Pro Comp MX6 shocks, Currie Anti Rock antiroll bar, TKS sliders/
custom three-link with 8-inch Skyjacker coils, Pro Comp MX6 shocks
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Axles (f/r):
| Ford 9-inch, Detroit Locker, 35-spline chromoly axleshafts, Skyjacker pitman arm, AGR hydraulic assist steering/
14-bolt, Detroit Locker, 35-spline axleshafts, disc brakes
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Axle ratio:
| 4.88:1
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Wheels:
| 15x14 TrailReady bead locks
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Tires:
| 46x19.5-15 Mickey Thompson Baja Claw
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