10. Next, the factory bumpstop...
10. Next, the factory bumpstop was installed to the new upper track-bar bracket.
11. We then attached cantilever...
11. We then attached cantilever end links to the axlehousing and torqued them to spec. Another interesting note about the Evo Lever is that it uses a self-lubricating bushing design on the cantilever arms for ease of maintenance.
12. The Evo Lever can either...
12. The Evo Lever can either use a stock or aftermarket adjustable track bar. In this case we reinstalled the stock track bar.
13. Next up, the 8-inch-travel...
13. Next up, the 8-inch-travel 2-inch Kings were given a home between the subframe and the cantilever arms.
14. After tightening down...
14. After tightening down the shocks, the stock sway bar was reinstalled. For those wanting better high-speed stability, a performance sway bar is available.
15. We then attached the limit...
15. We then attached the limit straps to the axle.
16. With the shocks installed,...
16. With the shocks installed, reservoir mounts were welded to the frame and the reservoirs were secured.
17. The last order of business...
17. The last order of business was to install the optional skidplate to the subframe.
While we were at the shop,...
While we were at the shop, another JK was undergoing the Double Throw Down upgrade with triple bypass shocks, so we took this picture for you really curious Jeepers out there.
How Does It Work?
This JK Unlimited was equipped with factory upper arms, adjustable lower short arms, and 37-inch tires with Off Road Evolution's Evo coilover system on the front. On Off Road Evolution's 30-degree ramp, the complete Evo system proved to be highly flexible, achieving a score of 681. That equates to an RTI score of 995 on a 20-degree ramp. For comparison we ramped a stock '07 JK at 706. We ramped this rig straight on with street pressure in the tires, and while RTI is only one measurement of a suspension performance, we were impressed with the articulation this JK ended up with.
While we didn't get to take the kit on the trail, we did get some seat time on the pavement, hitting dips at speed and maybe even abusing a curb or two in the process. We can report that the ride is very comfortable in controlled situations, and the Off Road Evolution suspension system felt very stable at speed, breathing nicely over undulations and soaking up minor and major road imperfections with ease, transferring limited impact to the passenger compartment. We are looking forward to trying out the Evo Lever in the dirt at the first opportunity.