Common Jeep JL/JT Myths and Misconceptions!
Whether you're new to Jeeps or are a seasoned off-roader, you've likely heard plenty of questionable things about Jeeps that have left you scratching your head. There are plenty of myths and misconceptions surrounding the Jeep Wrangler and JT Gladiator —let’s take a look at a few to see if they hold up under scrutiny or are simply false.
Myth 1: Steering Stabilizers can Fix Death Wobble
Starting off with probably the most common myth for just about any solid axle Jeep, "steering stabilizers can fix death wobble". While this won't be the last time its said, its still important to say FALSE! A new steering stabilizer can't fix death wobble. Death wobble is typically caused by worn out, loose steering components such as track bar bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends.
A steering stabilizer is simply a shock that helps reduce movement and minor vibrations in the steering wheel caused from rough or uneven terrain. It can't be used as a fix for worn out front end steering components and won't prevent death wobble. An upgraded Stabilizer can however, help increase steering reponsiveness and help reduce road vibrations while smoothing out your steering feel.
Myth 2: Lift Kits Make your Jeep Ride Like Crap
False. While it is true that improperly lifting your Jeep can cause it to be less responsive and ride rougher than stock, Lift kits do not inherently cause your Jeep to ride like crap and in many cases can improve ride quality. Northridge4x4's selection of high-quality lift kits is your best bet for high-quality, smooth riding suspension lift kits!
Poor ride quality symptoms such as vague, sloppy steering and bump steer are a symptom of an incomplete lift kit. To fix this, necessary components for your lift kit include adjustable control arms to get your Jeeps geometry aligned back to stock, adjustable track bars to re-center the axles and high-quality shocks. In most cases, Jeep owners who complain about poor ride quality and sloppy steering after lifting their vehicle are running setups without these components, leading to suspension and steering geometry that’s far from factory spec. Checkout our blog breaking down the most common components that go into a lift kit!
Myth 3: 2 Door Jeeps are Better Off-Road than 4 Door Jeeps
This is one of the most hotly debated topics between Jeep Wrangler owners: which is better off-road, the 2-door or the 4-door? The truth is, there’s no definitive winner in every scenario—each has its own strengths and trade-offs. For example the 2-door excels in tight, technical rock crawling situations thanks to its shorter wheelbase and smaller turning radius, making it easier to maneuver through narrow trails. On the other hand, the 4-door offers greater stability on steep climbs and descents due to its longer wheelbase, which helps it stay planted on uneven terrain.
Ultimately, the most important factor is seat time, developing your skills and getting to know your own rig will make the biggest difference in off-road performance.
Myth 4: Lockers are Only for Hardcore Off-roaders
False. Many will claim that lockers are only needed once you start doing the most difficult trails imaginable. While lockers are certainly great for hardcore off-roading, they are still a great upgrade to have on trails of all levels. Lockers are especially great for snowy trails, sand, loose dirt trails and steep hill climbs. Lockers are useful just about any time there is a need for additional traction, which can happen on all kinds of terrain and types of trails.
Myth 5: Snorkels are Only for Deep Water Crossings
Many believe a snorkel intake is only for deep water crossings, this simply isn't true. While a snorkel does indeed raise your engine intake which helps when crossing deep water, it has more use than just that. The raised intake of a snorkel helps your Jeep breather cleaner, cooler air from higher up. This is especially helpful on dusty trails, helping your Jeep avoid intaking as much of the trail dust.
Myth 6: You Don't Need to Modify Your Jeep to Go Off-road
Out of the box, Jeeps are capable off-roaders and you don’t always need to load up your Jeep with dozens of modifications to hit easy trails, however, certain upgrades are necessary to enhance both safety and capability. Even if you’re not aiming to build a hardcore off-roader, essentials like a recovery winch, fire extinguisher, and first aid kit are crucial for a safe trip into the wilderness.
As you gain more off-road experience and begin tackling tougher trails, it’s a good idea to create a build plan to outline the modifications your Jeep will need to handle tougher terrain and look its best, such as a lift kit and bigger tires.
Myth 7: The Jeep Gladiator Shares Fitment with All Jeep JL Aftermarket Parts
Partly true, while the Gladiator shares a massive amount of parts with the Wrangler, it should be noted there is still a good amount of aftermarket and OEM parts that wont fit across the JT and JL. Aftermarket parts such as rear bumpers, certain suspension upgrades, taillights and more will not fit.
For a more comprehensive list of shared aftermarket and OEM fitment, checkout our JL/JT fitment and trim guide.
