The year 2008 brought with it much innovation for the 4x4 community. So much, in fact, that it was difficult for us to squeeze the best of 'em in the following pages. It doesn't matter what type of rig you sport-chances are you either want to purchase, or already possess, something from this list. If not, take note because we've been salivating over them all year, and now it's your turn to see what products made the cut for Four Wheeler's annual year-end best list.
Drivetrain
What is it: Atlas 4SP
Why it's Cool: This stout reworking of the awesome Atlas 2 adds two additional gear ratios, thanks to a planetary gearset mounted prior to the input shaft. They come ready to install and are available in your choice of ratios: 5.4:1 or the incredibly low 10.3:1.
Where to get it: 800/350-2223, www.advanceadapters.com
What is it: Dynaloc Hubs
Why it's Cool: These redesigned locking hubs are three times stronger than traditional hubs, and feature a "fail to lock" feature that won't leave you stranded on the trail.
Where to get it: 714/596-4461, www.dynatrac.com
What is it: Gear Vendors Double OD
Why it's Cool: Double overdrive allows significant fuel savings, thanks to lower engine rpm. On Duramax applications, this product is said to add up to 4 mpg while cruising at highway speeds.
Where to get it: 800/999-9555, www.gearvendors.com
What is it: Ultra Seal U-Joints
Why it's Cool: These inexpensive U-joints are much stronger than traditional-style joints while incorporating a nifty internal seal that keeps water and mud from reaching the bearings.
Where to get it: 888/452-7979, www.qualitygear.com
What is it: Solid Axle JK SpynTec
Why it's Cool: The SpynTec hub conversion allows owners to add the functionality of locking hubs to the popular Jeep JK. With hubs unlocked, steering is easier, the front drivetrain is preserved, and increased mpg can be observed.
Where to get it: 330/538-9791, www.solidaxle.com
What is it: Stak Replace-A-Case
Why it's Cool: This trick aluminum Dana 300 housing allows owners to clock the transfer case, adding valuable ground clearance under a rig's belly. This product is also very handy for switching from right-hand to left-hand front output drops.
Where to get it: 915/584-2400, www.stak4x4.com
What is it: Eaton E-Locker for Dana 30
Why it's Cool: This heavy-duty selectable locker was designed especially for the newer Dana 30 axles with 27 or 31 splines. This locker is said to be the strongest locker available for the Dana 30 axle.
Where to get it: www.eaton.com
What is it: Stage 8 Locking Spindle Nuts
Why it's Cool: Dana 44/60 owners rejoice because these locking fasteners are guaranteed to stay tight, no matter what abuse you throw at them. Manufactured from chromoly steel, each part features a precision fit that provides significant strength over traditional-style spindle-nut arrangements.
Where to get it: 800/843-7836, www.stage8.com
Wheels
What is it: Walker Evans 20-Inch Wheels
Why it's Cool: When you combine more than 50 years of desert racing experience with the desire to have the lightest and strongest wheel available, you get Walker Evans wheels. Now mix that with the desire to run plus-size rubber (40 to 54 inches) and the Walker Evans 20-inch wheels are hard to beat. Made from cast-aluminum featuring triangulated design elements, this wheel is awesome at dispersing energy spikes while remaining super-lightweight. The valve stems are tucked in out of harm's way as well.
Where to get it: 951/784-7223, www.walkerevansracing.com
What is it: Poison Spyder Customs Spyder Lock Wheels
Why it's Cool: Poison Spyder Customs set out to build a super-stout Jeep/buggy wheel, and ended up with a unique look that can survive a thrashing. The beadlock ring stiffens the face of the wheel, protecting both the hub and valve stem from carnage, while little grooves clamp against the tire to prevent slippage. Flush-mounted Grade-8 hardware ensures serviceability while steel inserts imbedded in the aluminum engage as the wear surface for long thread life.
Where to get it: 303/777-4820, www.spydercustoms.com
What is it: AEV Beadlock Wheels
Why it's Cool: AEV has some of the coolest Jeep add-ons available, and these beadlocked wheels are no exception. Featuring recessed valve stems to protect against the rigors of hard-core trail abuse, these wheels offer individualistic style designed to survive. We also like the fact that these wheels are hubcentric and DOT-compliant, thanks to a toothed-positive locking ring design.
Where to get it: 406/251-2100, www.aev-conversions.com
What is it: Mamba M4 Wheels
Why it's Cool: Mamba Off-Road Alloys M4 wheels are unique in design and offer a tough and rugged look. Each feature a diamond-cut, clearcoated finish with forged 6061 aluminum trim bolts, studs, and nuts. Included are two-piece, die-cast aluminum center caps with stainless steel hardware. They're available in 17- to 22-inch sizes and with offsets for stock height and lifted trucks.
Where to get it: 800/735-2822, www.mambawheels.com