We had the opportunity and pleasure to chat with Jason, as he filled us in on his personal experience of growing the Demello Offroad brand.Read More →
The post Shop Talk With Demello Offroad: Navigating the Rough Trails of Small Off-Road Business appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Shop Talk With Demello Offroad: Navigating the Rough Trails of Small Off-Road Business appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>We had the opportunity to spend some time in the dirt with Jason to see what his solid axle swapped Tacoma was all about.Read More →
The post Dirt, Mud, Sand & Beyond: Demello OffRoad’s Solid Axle Swap 2005 Toyota Tacoma appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Dirt, Mud, Sand & Beyond: Demello OffRoad’s Solid Axle Swap 2005 Toyota Tacoma appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Adventures are best when shared with good company to experience the high times together and that is what XPDN4 is all about.Read More →
The post Milestar XPDN4 Cascadia: An Overland Trek Through Oregon’s Many Exciting Landscapes appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Adventures are best when shared with good company to experience the high times together and overcome any obstacles that may present themselves along the way as a solidified unit. Plus, what fun is cracking a celebratory cold one alone when setting up camp for the night? This is what Milestar Tire’s XPDN4 Cascadia overland event is all about. While, yes there is much celebration to be had while settling in at the campsite (with plenty of frosty beers to go around), this journey was mapped out to send the 10 participating vehicles through gorgeous central Oregon, over the Cascade mountains and finally onward to the serene coastline, which is quite a wide range of landscape and temperature changes.
XPDN4 officially kicked off on July 11, 2022 at Spoken Moto, a small café in Bend, Oregon. It was here where Martin Castro of Milestar Tires welcomed and briefed representatives from Torq-Masters, Turtle Back Trailers, Adventure Rack Systems, Van Compass, Modern Jeeper , Gambler 500, Sons of Smokey, Anderson Design Fabrication, Ready Rig 4×4 and MB Quart of the logistics covering the next few days on the trail. Up until this point, everyone was simply told to come prepared to camp and to be ready to encounter some cold weather. That’s all the information they had to go on up until the morning meet-up but once everyone chowed down and loaded up on caffeine, the caravan hit the road with confidence the trip was going to be a blast. The vehicle group was diverse as it was capable of the journey as it comprised of a Ford Transit van on 37’s, a diesel-swapped Chevy Colorado on 40’s and a 15-passenger van, a Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, and a pre-runner two-door 4Runner, a Jeep JL and two Gladiators, oh and a Subaru Wilderness too!
The drivers were first led through the Deschutes National Forest over dirt and winding forest service roads that took them past a crystal clear alpine lake and amazing views of the snow capped Three Sisters volcanoes, which are the prominent landmarks of the central Oregon Cascades. After crossing Highway 20 near the town of Sisters, the crew then headed northeast and soon left the pines behind with a high desert scenario in front of them. The crew then hopped onto a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) road that led them straight into a dead end comprised of barbed wire and boulders (thanks to the homeowner who lives just above the road), which forced them into a slightly different direction but were still able to locate their rendezvous for the evening—the South Perry Campground on Lake Billy Chinook.
After a long day behind the wheel, the weary group of adventure seekers were greeted with a catered dinner from El Sancho Loco Taqueria in Bend as well as refreshments from Deschutes Brewery—their very own beer sponsor in for the evening! The total number of miles covered for the day added up to 106, but it was an interesting 106 miles that was enough to tire the crew out while giving them a taste as to what was to come the next morning.
Waking up refreshed and ready to head towards the coast, the crew packed it all in and hopped back into their respective driver seats for a 218-mile stretch that would leave them sleeping in the dunes of the Pacific Ocean later that night. With some ground to cover, the caravan fueled up in Sisters as they embarked west on route 20 toward the Hoodoo ski area. The route led them past Big Lake and onto sections of the Santiam Pass wagon route—a 157-year-old trail carved into the steep hillsides and surrounded by massive pine trees.
As beautiful and majestic as the giant trees appear, however, they can also pose hazard to this route as the crew found out. Dozens of pines had fallen across the trail at some point, and while they were cut and moved by locals who maintain the trail, there was just room enough room to squeeze a UTV through. With full-size pickups, SUV’s and a passenger van needing to get by, the crew had to pull together to make their way through. The two-hour ordeal included plenty of cutting, winching and shoveling in order to clear the way, but they made it thanks to their combined variety of onboard tools and teamwork most of all.
Only a two-hour scenic cruise on pavement was left to reach the coast, which everybody did safely around 8PM. Again, the crew was greeted with a wonderful catered dinner, this time from Bill & Tim’s Barbeque & Tap House in Eugene. BBQ at the beach; what could be better?
Well, the late start in the morning was definitely nice. The extra time allowed everyone to have a relaxing breakfast, as well as rip around a bit in the sand before making their way back to historic highway 101. The easy 2.5-hour scenic cruise to north to Pacific City would lead the crew to a lunch stop on the shore. This stretch of the Oregon coast is drop dead gorgeous, which is why their route was designed around spending so much time looking at it.
There was still one more stop to make before XPDN4 was to conclude. Old 47 Estate winery in Gaston, Oregon sits two hours east from the coast through the picturesque Willamette Valley. Upon arrival, Benjamin Martin, a veteran and co-owner of Dauntless Wine Company, showed them around and caught them up to speed on his company’s mission statement. Along with two other veterans, Benjamin (who just happens to be an ex-off-road industry worker) found his true calling in winemaking, as well as giving back to warriors in need through charitable donations. In fact, 100% of Dauntless’ net profits benefit many veteran-oriented charities. Of course, Benjamin did run through the importance of the local geography and the types of grape varietals they are able to grow.
Tasting different wine examples proved to be the most ideal wind down from a 3-day off-road excursion throughout the region. After a fun-filled potluck style dinner, the crew laughed and told stories about their personal takes throughout the trek through Oregon. Even though the trip seemed to flash by, the crew covered some amazing ground through land that is not often traveled. While the good times vastly outweighed any delays the crew experienced along the way, being able to settle in together after hours of driving remained the best part of each day’s itinerary. Fellowship is the glue that holds this specialized industry together, and Milestar Tires will once again drive that point home in the next XPDN installment to come.
The post Milestar XPDN4 Cascadia: An Overland Trek Through Oregon’s Many Exciting Landscapes appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>With an estimated +300 billion dollars being spent in the light truck/SUV aftermarket, choosing the right suspension upgrades can be daunting.Read More →
The post Lifting Your Rig 101: What to Consider appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Lifting Your Rig 101: What to Consider appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Known for creating works of art from forgotten classic work trucks, Hodson Motors unveiled their latest piece - the 1968 Dodge W300 Crew Cab.Read More →
The post Hodson’s Dodge W300 Is an Art Masterpiece! appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Hodson’s Dodge W300 Is an Art Masterpiece! appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Brian sold his K5 in March 2021 and he didn't’ wait long or spend much time debating what his next vehicle would be - a Jeep Wrangler JLU.Read More →
The post Brian Jacobson’s Jeep Wrangler JLU Monster appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Guess who’s back? Back again. It’s Brian Jacobson and this time he’s created a JLU Monster.
You may recall the recent State of Speed feature of Brian Jacobson’s 1969 Chevy K5 Blazer. If not, then spoiler alert, Brian sold the K5 shortly after it was completed. He had his reasons, of course, and when asked it was more than just the ridiculous amount of money he was offered. “I had a bit of an epiphany on a trip to Parker, Arizona.” Said Jacobson. He continued, “On this trip my family struggled getting in and out of the Blazer. It wasn’t easy dealing with the roll cage, strapping into the harnesses, etc. Then they rode in a friend’s new Jeep JLU…” The rest is history. Jacobson immediately started building out his next project in his mind, and after selling the K5 he told himself, ‘It feels so empty without a Jeep.’
Jacobson isn’t a stranger to Jeeps. In fact, prior to the Blazer he built out an impressive Jeep Wrangler TJ Unlimited, AKA Jeep LJ. The irony here is that the LJ was intended to be his daughter’s vehicle to drive to school. After a few years he planned to inherit the LJ from her and eventually start to build it out. But as things often do, the LJ build got started early, and went a bit overboard for a teenager’s daily driver. Before long it wasn’t Brian’s daughter’s Jeep any longer, but his own.
Brian sold the K5 in March of 2021 and he didn’t’ wait long or spend much time debating what his next vehicle would be. Literally, the day after the Blazer was sold, he began a search for a Jeep Wrangler JLU. After scouring private party ads, and dealer inventories, Brian found the Jeep that would become the basis for his next project. Most Jeep enthusiasts might seek out a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, the ultimate factory-built off-roader. However, Brian already had his Jeep build planned out in advance and his plans far exceeded everything a factory Rubicon is built with/for. So why spend the extra money on a top-of-the-line Wrangler?
At the end of the day, Brian ended up with a base model Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport. “I knew I was going to cut it up, and I immediately started ordering parts,” said Jacobson. In April of 2021 Jacobson dropped the freshly acquired JLU off with his friends at Rock Bottom Offroad to get the build started. “I was going to keep it fairly simple at first, with bolt on suspension, etc.” said Jacobson. He added, “But the guys at Rock Bottom Offroad called me up and said, ‘Guess what we’re doing?”. Essentially his JLU build was Hijacked and the folks at Rock Bottom Offroad took this build to eleven.
The shop immediately began to dig into the JLU, stripping it down, and getting it ready to conquer everything from the Hammers to the Rubicon trail. One of the most important components in any crawler build is the axles, and for this reason Brian and crew went with a set of Fusion 4×4 Elite Kingpin 60/Elite 80 – 40 spline axles. Suspending those beefy axles is a custom rear trailing arms, and three-link front suspension built by Rock Bottom Offroad.
Providing the damping at all four corners are Radflo 2.5 coilovers and bypasses. Steering left and right is handled by 2-½ ton Fusion steering aided by Red Neck Ram hydro assist from the folks at West Texas Off-Road. “The cool thing about West Texas Off-road is you turn your wheels left and right, take measurements, and send your measurements over to them. They build the hydro assist to your specs, not the other way around,” said Jacobson. They also took the heavy-duty steering box that Jacobson purchased and, in addition to porting the box, modified it to meet the flow requirements of a hydro-assist system.
Even with a quick walk ‘round the outside of Jacobson’s Jeep, it’s obvious that these axles and custom suspension weren’t bolted on for looks. They were selected to maximize travel and the suspension is complemented by custom wheel tubs at all four corners. Even with a set of 40” Milestar Patagonia M/Ts, Brian’s Jeep managed a Metalcloak Corner Travel Index (CTI) of 1050. For those unfamiliar with a CTI score, a custom trailer is used to measure a vehicle’s maximum axle/wheel articulation, commonly referred to as flex, at all four corners of the vehicle. To give perspective, Metalcloak has performed a CTI test on a stock JLU Rubicon and achieved a CTI of 636 with the front swaybar disconnected.
Now this might spark a little controversy, but Jacobson said, “with 5.38:1 gears, and this 8-speed transmission, the JLU Sport’s stock transfer case is perfect. In fact, many people say the Rubicon’s 4:1 transfer case is just too low.” To raise a few more eyebrows, Jacobson’s JLU is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo! Jacobson told us, “I know someone who has their turbo JL tuned to 400 horsepower.” He continued, “I’ve got a S&B air intake, and Magnaflow exhaust on mine and it turns those 40” tires without issue.” He did say that he plans to increase performance with a tune in the future once the 42” Milestar Patagonia M/Ts have been released.
Besides axles, any other factory parts are not up to the task of dealing with this kind of articulation, turning tires far beyond the stock 31” diameter units, and not to mention bringing it all to a standstill. As such, those weak points needed to be replaced with aftermarket units. Adam’s Driveshafts, 1350 rear and 1310 front, ensure the power coming out of the transfer case makes it to the differentials. Additionally, Brian’s JLU is sporting the big brake kit that comes with Fusion 4×4 axles to slow down the custom candy blue powdercoated Raceline Monster beadlocks wrapped in tires taller than most young kids.
Although Brian’s Jeep is incredibly capable, it was also built to be comfortable and functional both on and off-road. PRP seats and harness were utilized for comfort and safety. Also, seeing how the roll cage in his K5 became an inconvenience, Brian opted for a Rock Hard 4×4 bolt-in roll cage to compliment the JLU’s factory roll cage. “The factory cage is pretty thin,” said Jacobson. “But it’s made of hardened steel, and the Rock Hard 4×4 cage helps improve what came from the factory.” The stock JLU’s top is sufficient but a bit cumbersome when outfitted with a hardtop. So, for increased style, and ease of going topless, Jacobson added a Bestop Fastback softtop.
To make sure passengers, and passersby, can hear the Jeep coming, Brian added an Audison car audio system powered by a Stinger Electronics head unit. With seeing, and being seen, in mind, factory lighting was swapped for Oracle Lighting products with off-road lighting being handled by units from Rigid Industries. To look good, while being functional, Nemesis Industries fenders, inner fenders, sliders, and bumpers were used. A Warn Industries winch provides tugging power (most likely to recover others), while Artec Industries skid plates modified by Rock Bottom Offroad protect the underside from catastrophe.
So, with all this work done to the Jeep JLU, State of Speed felt obligated to ask Brian if he accomplished his goal of having a capable off-roader, while keeping his family comfortable? To which Jacobson replied, “Absolutely! While they were all sad to see the K5 go. They’re happier now.” Which of course required us to ask Brian if he was happy with the build? “For sure! The family is comfortable. I’m happy, and I’m planning to keep it.” Only time will tell if Brian really does stick with the JLU. Sometimes building a vehicle is as much, or more, fun than using it. So, if that’s the case, State of Speed is excited to see what’s next for Jacobson!
The post Brian Jacobson’s Jeep Wrangler JLU Monster appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Pat met with Verne at the Lucas Oils Off Road Expo. It was that exact moment that solidified his decision to build a 1956 Jeep Willys.Read More →
The post Evil 1956 Jeep Willys: The Ultimate Off-Road Adventurer appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Evil 1956 Jeep Willys: The Ultimate Off-Road Adventurer appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Rebadged the CJ2A, the civilian Jeep and its military counterpart would give birth to an entire industry that still exists to this day.Read More →
The post The Birth of An Industry: ’46 Jeep Willys appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The Birth of An Industry: ’46 Jeep Willys appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>For Brian Jacobson's build, he wanted something old and fast. So, Brian came to the conclusion that Old + Fast = K5.Read More →
The post This 1969 Chevy K5 Blazer Proves That if You Can’t Find It, Build It appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Let’s do a little time traveling, the year is 2018 and after selling a highly sought-after Jeep Wrangler TJ Unlimited (more commonly called the LJ) Brian Jacobson is on the lookout for his next project. His criteria are that he wanted to get back to playing in the desert and his next build needed to be old and fast. So, after digging out an old high school algebra book Brian began to crunch numbers and came to the conclusion that Old + Fast = K5.
Again, let’s fire up the DeLoreon’s Flux Capacitor and travel back to the late 1960’s. Jeep’s CJ had carved out a new market segment, International Harvester had released the Scout in 1961 and Ford came out swinging with the Bronco by 1965. At this point General Motors had not only been late to the Pony Car craze, but now they were several years behind in the emerging SUV market.
But GM took a different approach than its competition from Detroit. Instead of producing an all-new smallish competitor to Jeep’s CJ, some bean counters determined it would be a lot cheaper and easier to shorten an existing K-Series pickup platform. In doing so GM created a full-size SUV to which the other auto makers would soon follow. So, in 1969 (often mistakenly called the Summer of Love), Chevrolet released the full-size K5 Blazer.
Speeding forward at 88 MPH, we once again find ourselves in 2018. Brian Jacobson is having a hard time finding the right K5 Blazer for his project. Even before today’s high inflation, the cost of a clean K5 had skyrocketed and since Brian knew he was going to beat on this truck, he decided he would pick up something rough and build it out his way. As is often the case, this K5 project quickly snowballed into a one-of-a-kind build worthy of being on display at car shows.
Upon tearing into his newly acquired K5, Brian said he became of the mindset, that “If I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it right.” After that, the truck quickly became torn down. Everything got sandblasted, and with a nearly 50-year-old off-road vehicle, rust and abuse had taken its toll on the body panels. “We replaced every panel but the hood and tailgate,” said Jacobson. He continued, “It was a horrible rust bucket. We even welded in new rockers and a cowl.”
Brian did a lot of the work himself but gives credit to his good friends from Rock Bottom Off-Road in Riverside, California for the build. While Brian is a contractor, running heavy equipment, he helps Rock Bottom Off-Road with sales and publicity. “They’re good friends of mine. Plus, they had previously built my LJ,” said Jacobson. So, the K5 was transported to Rock Bottom for the build, and 1.21 gigawatts…err eighteen months later, the truck was finished.
And that’s brings us Back to the Future. When it was all said and done, the original desert beater concept was thrown out the window and the end result was a build worthy of the most elite car shows. “Yes, I took it to any show around,” said Jacobson, “but I also mobbed it through the desert, including KOH. I built it to use it.” Which is no understatement when you start to look at this truck’s build sheet.
At the heart of it all is a LS3 Crate engine rated at 500HP. The LS3 is connected to a 4L80E automatic transmission, and a NP205 Twin Stick transfer case. From there the driveline connects to a kingpin Dana 60 front end, out of an ‘84 Chevy truck, and a 14-bolt rear end out of a ‘04 Suburban. Inside the axle housings are ARB air lockers and 5.13:1 ring & pinion gears. Both the front and rear axles already had disc brakes from their donor vehicles, but Jacobson took it a few steps further with Powerstop Brakes 6-piston calipers at all four corners combined with a Wilwood master cylinder & hydro boost power assist. Steering is handled by PSC hydro assist with ram assist to make steering those 38” Milestar Patagonia M/Ts easy when aired down super low thanks to KMC Machete beadlock wheels.
Yeah, it’s true the truck makes a lot of horsepower thanks to the tuning provided by CBM motorsports, and even has the braking power to slow it down. But is it fast when the going gets rough? You better believe it! Jacobson ditched the original front/rear leaf spring suspension in favor of a much more responsive Off-Road Designs 4-link setup with damping provided by King coilover shocks. To add rigidity to the frame, while also increasing safety, Jacobson had the roll cage tied to the frame. Also, with safety in mind, Jacobson went with PRP highback seats and safety harnesses.
What makes this truck show worthy? Everything else about it of course! This truck is just as much form as it is function. As a favor, this build brought two old school body guys out of retirement and was then treated to a what would approximately be a $20,000 paint job in Toyota’s TRD Pro Calvary Blue. Bumpers are functional, yet highly aesthetic units originally from Chassis Unlimited Bumpers. Though Jacobson said, “Those bumpers were discontinued, but Rock Bottom Off-road is making them now. Same with the cage and center console.”
In addition to the PRP seats inside, the interior got a full custom treatment from a local Riverside, CA interior shop called Barajas Upholstery. Atop the N8Z Fab console is a classic B&M shifter along with NP205 twin sticks allowing for all kinds of weird combinations like front only two low/high, rear only low range and of course the more usual 4 high/low combinations. Covering the gorgeous interior is a Softopper softtop replacing the original hardtop unit. And for those Southern California days when it’s too hot to go topless, Jacobson had a Vintage Air A/C unit added.
Often erroneously overlooked in a vehicle this age is the electrical system. Sure, copper wire remains copper wire. But the wire’s insulation becomes hard and brittle over time. Even the smallest vibrations can reveal weaknesses in the wiring harness in the way of electrical shorts. With that in mind, Brian made sure his K5 got a full Painless Performance wiring harness combined with new LED lighting. Replacing those worn out, and potentially inaccurate gauges, are all-new units from Autometer. Adorning the K5 are massive KC lights putting out all the needed lumens for nighttime romps through the desert which are controlled by a 4×4 sPod unit for simplicity and added functionality.
At the end of the interview State of Speed candidly asked Brian if he was happy with the build. Jacobson responded, “To be transparent. I’ve sold the K5.” As the old saying goes, everything is for sale if the price is right. “I had someone offer me an absurd amount of money, and couldn’t say no,” said Jacobson. When asked if he regretted selling it, he said “Yes, I miss it. But I don’t regret selling it. I’m enjoying my new JL build even more.” This JLU build he speaks of is a 2020 Wrangler Unlimited Sport that the guys at Rock Bottom Off-Road gave the full treatment, and State of Speed will cover in an upcoming article. So stay tuned!
The post This 1969 Chevy K5 Blazer Proves That if You Can’t Find It, Build It appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The legendary father/son combo Derrick and Riley Hodson have developed what they now affectionately call the Jeep J60Read More →
The post Hodson Motor’s 1965 Jeep J60 Dually: One of a Kind, One at a Time appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Hodson Motor’s 1965 Jeep J60 Dually: One of a Kind, One at a Time appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>What started as a "beer bet" between friends on a dry lakebed in Johnson Valley nearly 15 years ago has grown to one of the biggest weeks of off-road racing in the world: the Ultra 4 King of the Hammers (KOH).Read More →
The post 2022 King of the Hammers appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post 2022 King of the Hammers appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Shocks are both simple and complicated. Their function and parts are simple, but it’s their configuration that makes such a huge difference.Read More →
The post Off-Road Suspension Tech: Shock Reservoirs and Bypass Valves appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Off-Road Suspension Tech: Shock Reservoirs and Bypass Valves appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>There isn’t one system out there that can meet the demand of every driver for all conditons, but this article should help shed some light.Read More →
The post The Differential Difference appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The Differential Difference appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Even simple tasks can become impossible if you don’t have the right tools. So what do you need as an off-roader? Read More →
The post Top 10 Tools Every Off-Roader Should Carry appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Top 10 Tools Every Off-Roader Should Carry appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>After a couple decades, a few car chases and a whole lot of horsing around, the Ford Bronco is back! Well, its been back for a minute now, but after a year we’re all trying to forget, we’ll call SEMA 2021 the official year of the new Bronco. Read More →
The post Best New Ford Bronco Performance Parts at the SEMA Show appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Best New Ford Bronco Performance Parts at the SEMA Show appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>What makes the midsize truck marketplace so exciting? Well, automakers are looking to deliver the most bang for your buck in this category. Read More →
The post Don’t Call It a Comeback: The Resurgence of the Compact Truck appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Don’t Call It a Comeback: The Resurgence of the Compact Truck appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>$10k is the right sum of money that can be stretched a very long way when spent correctly on parts from reputable aftermarket manufacturers.Read More →
The post Build an Off-Road Truck With a $10K Budget appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Build an Off-Road Truck With a $10K Budget appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Today we’re talking about the debate between mid and long travel truck suspension systems, and what it really means to build and drive them. Read More →
The post Mid Travel vs. Long Travel Off-Road Suspension appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Mid Travel vs. Long Travel Off-Road Suspension appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Depending on your vehicle, 35’s could be a simple bolt on process, or entail several modifications in order to make them fit.Read More →
The post Are 35 Inch Tires Right for Your Rig? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Are 35 Inch Tires Right for Your Rig? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Relic Run is a get together of vintage 4x4’s from all makes and models, designed to celebrate the mechanized great outdoors.Read More →
The post Relic Run 2021: Rally at the Reservoir appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Relic Run 2021: Rally at the Reservoir appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Powering the Hodson Motors Ford F250 is a Lincoln 460 big block with a Sniper EFI self-tuning fuel injection system, and a C6 transmission.Read More →
The post Hodson Motors’ Forest Service Ford F-250 Restomod appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Hodson Motors’ Forest Service Ford F-250 Restomod appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>With an engine swap already in the stars for the Jeep, the guys narrowed the running down to a Viper SRT-10 engine. Read More →
The post Hodson Motors’ Viper-Powered Jeep JRT10 appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Hodson Motors’ Viper-Powered Jeep JRT10 appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Jeff Godbold admits that his time owning this ’75 Ford Bronco surely hasn’t been the most exciting era the truck has ever seen.Read More →
The post The Cleanest ’75 Ford Bronco On Dirt appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The Cleanest ’75 Ford Bronco On Dirt appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Your tires might provide the appearance you’re after, but they are also vitally important to how your vehicle performs.Read More →
The post A Definitive Guide To 37, 38, And 40 Inch Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post A Definitive Guide To 37, 38, And 40 Inch Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>XPDN is a series of overland expedition events hosted by Milestar Tires and designed to challenge even the most capable of rigs.Read More →
The post Milestar XPDN1: A Mojave Overland Adventure appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Milestar XPDN1: A Mojave Overland Adventure appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Able to take a hit far better, tires like the Patagonia M/T feature a 3-ply sidewall that provides added strength and impact protection.Read More →
The post All-Terrain Tires vs. Mud-Terrain Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post All-Terrain Tires vs. Mud-Terrain Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Adding to its increasing lineup of off-road capable vehicles, Ford is introducing the all-new F-150 Tremor; a bridge between work and play.Read More →
The post Entry Level Ford Raptor? Ford Announces the F-150 Tremor appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Entry Level Ford Raptor? Ford Announces the F-150 Tremor appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The history of the American Jeep is well known. Used by soldiers in World War II, it earned a reputation for toughness that endures today. Many will be surprised to learn that the Toyota Land Cruiser has a similar pedigree...Read More →
The post Toyota Land Cruiser: Born From War appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Toyota Land Cruiser: Born From War appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>I can tell you from first-hand experience that the rubber compound used is just as important as any other component of a tire. Read More →
The post Does Tire Compound Even Matter? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Does Tire Compound Even Matter? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>I’ll cut to the chase, there is no “winner” when it comes to the debate over short wheelbase or long; they are like apples and oranges.Read More →
The post Long Wheelbase and Short, The Pros, and Cons. appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Long Wheelbase and Short, The Pros, and Cons. appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>While no Porsche snob in their right mind would get their prized 911 muddy, there were those who were quite successful competing in the dirt...Read More →
The post Safari 911: Are Porsche’s More Fun Off-Road? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Safari 911: Are Porsche’s More Fun Off-Road? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The 2021 Ford Bronco has finally been revealed! Will the Ford Bronco have what it takes to take on the Jeep lineup?Read More →
The post Ford Finally Unleashes the All-New 2021 Ford Bronco appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Ford Finally Unleashes the All-New 2021 Ford Bronco appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Ford is poised to take a run at the Wrangler with the 2021 Ford Bronco. Can it really go toe-to-toe with Jeep’s flagship?Read More →
The post The 2021 Ford Bronco: What to Expect appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The 2021 Ford Bronco: What to Expect appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>I’ve put together a list of my top ten off-road vehicles as a starting point for a “do most everything” vehicle that factors in cost, aftermarket support, usability and a little bit of cool-factor.Read More →
The post Top 10 Best Off-Road Vehicles appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Top 10 Best Off-Road Vehicles appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>There are thousands, maybe even millions of different ways to build and accessorize the Jeep JK Wrangler. There are so many aftermarket parts available, where do you start?Read More →
The post A Badass Jeep JK Build for 10K? Here’s Your Guide! appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post A Badass Jeep JK Build for 10K? Here’s Your Guide! appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>With an independent suspension, both sides work independently from each other. IFS was designed in part to provide a smoother ride, but like everything else on a vehicle; it has its strengths, and weaknesses; we’ll explore both.Read More →
The post Understanding Independent Front Suspension (IFS) appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Understanding Independent Front Suspension (IFS) appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The two models look so similar, it is easy to question what the difference between them really is. We are going to explore those differences here.Read More →
The post What’s the Big Difference Between a Jeep JK and a Jeep JL? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post What’s the Big Difference Between a Jeep JK and a Jeep JL? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>This is where Jeep stepped in and created a custom version of their 2020 Jeep Wrangler JPP (Jeep Performance Parts) 20 to debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Read More →
The post 2020 Jeep Wrangler JPP 20 Flaunts MOPAR’s All-New Jeep Performance Parts appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post 2020 Jeep Wrangler JPP 20 Flaunts MOPAR’s All-New Jeep Performance Parts appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Both leaf springs and suspension links have their strengths, and weaknesses. Depending on several factors, either design might be right for you, so we’ll take a look at both. Read More →
The post Leaf Springs vs Suspension Links appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Leaf Springs vs Suspension Links appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Despite SEMA 2019 being called “The Year of the Supra”, the show had an abundance of other fantastic builds that deserve some love.Read More →
The post SEMA 2019: Impressions appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post SEMA 2019: Impressions appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Many Historians agree that the wheel was invented in 3500 BC. What doesn’t get mentioned is that a wheel needs an axle in order to carry any weight. That means the straight axle has been around for just as long.Read More →
The post Understanding Straight Axles appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Understanding Straight Axles appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>These 5 off-road mods might not make you a hero at the mall, but will help you to have a safe enjoyable trip off-road. Read More →
The post The Top 5 Underrated Off-Road Mods appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The Top 5 Underrated Off-Road Mods appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>You might have heard the term beadlock used or seen the unique wheels on an offroad vehicle, but what are beadlocks, and what do they do? Read More →
The post What Are Beadlocks? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post What Are Beadlocks? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Whether you are conquering challenging terrain, or travelling to remote locations, offroad travel has major benefits. It also comes with some responsibilitiesRead More →
The post 10 Things to Know Before Going Four Wheeling appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post 10 Things to Know Before Going Four Wheeling appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>In the end, there’s only one vehicle that truly deserves the title of “The Most American Car Ever”.Read More →
The post The Jeep: From Willys to Wrangler appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The Jeep: From Willys to Wrangler appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The many spectators and other racers who merely made it to the finish might just say that the 2019 Mint 400 was the greatest damn thing ever...Read More →
The post Can the Mint 400 Really Be the Greatest Damn Thing Ever Seen? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Can the Mint 400 Really Be the Greatest Damn Thing Ever Seen? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The 2019 Lasernut Western Series kicked off this past weekend with the MetalCloak Stampede at Prairie City SVRA.Read More →
The post 2019 Metalcloak Stampede Race Recap appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post 2019 Metalcloak Stampede Race Recap appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Going off-roading means you need 40-inch tires, right? There are things you need to take into consideration before going oversizedRead More →
The post Going Big: A General Guide to 40-Inch Off-Road Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Going Big: A General Guide to 40-Inch Off-Road Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>It’s not often when something comes along that is an entirely new concept, especially in motorsports. The King of the Hammers race has done just that.Read More →
The post 2019 King of the Hammers appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post 2019 King of the Hammers appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>What does an owner do when they want more than their 37’s, but can’t afford or justify the required upgrades for 40’s? Enter the Milestar Patagonia 38".Read More →
The post 38 Inch Special: A Guide to 38 Inch Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post 38 Inch Special: A Guide to 38 Inch Tires appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>KOH is the off-road experience you can’t miss out on, but there is a need to qualify for it. Fortunately, there's the Every Man Challenge.Read More →
The post What Is the Every Man Challenge? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post What Is the Every Man Challenge? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>When it comes to a balance of performance and looks, Dan Fresh and OC Motorsports may have hit the target dead center.Read More →
The post Is Dan Fresh’s JL Wrangler the Perfect Combination of Form and Function? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Is Dan Fresh’s JL Wrangler the Perfect Combination of Form and Function? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The Best in the Desert series Laughlin Desert Classic race compels participants to throw caution to the wind and run wide open.Read More →
The post Racers Run Wide Open at Laughlin Desert Classic appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Racers Run Wide Open at Laughlin Desert Classic appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The Milestar Can-Am UTV of Cora & Erik Jokinen was originally built for an impossible task.Read More →
The post The Milestar CAN-AM UTV of Cora and Erik Jokinen appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The Milestar CAN-AM UTV of Cora and Erik Jokinen appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>When you think of the ultimate off-road machine, you probably imagine it having Mud Terrain – or MT – tires. What makes an MT such a specific tire?Read More →
The post Max Traction – What Is a Mud Terrain Tire? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Max Traction – What Is a Mud Terrain Tire? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>What Are LED Lights? If you want bright but don’t want lights the size of Texas, you didn’t have much choice but to buy HID lights for your specific needs.Read More →
The post What Are LED Lights? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post What Are LED Lights? appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>When it comes to the aftermarket, there is only one trade show that has it all.Read More →
The post The SEMA 2018 Show appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post The SEMA 2018 Show appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>On the surface, they seem similar, but what is the difference between rock crawling and rock racing?Read More →
The post Rock Racing vs. Rock Crawling appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Rock Racing vs. Rock Crawling appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Sometimes you have to take “the road less traveled,” as they say and, so far, that journey seems to be paying off for Devin - owner and founder of Hoodbilt Co.Read More →
The post Hoodbilt appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Hoodbilt appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Every year, the Best in the Desert series holds their Vegas to Reno race in some of the most desolate terrains in the West.Read More →
The post Vegas to Reno Is the Big One! appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Vegas to Reno Is the Big One! appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>A truly “World Class” race, the UTV World Championships had a long list of events that attracted a wide range of enthusiasts.Read More →
The post UTV World Championship appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post UTV World Championship appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>When it comes to rock crawling, it’s not power that should be your focus as you build.Read More →
The post Crawlin’ With the Jeep Wrangler TJ appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Crawlin’ With the Jeep Wrangler TJ appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Take a peak behind the curtains of Currie Enterprises, one of the biggest names in automotive powersports.Read More →
The post Behind the Scenes at Currie Enterprises appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Behind the Scenes at Currie Enterprises appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The Jump Champs have hit their stride as even heavy rains were not enough to dampen the enthusiasm of the many fans and competitors who showed up.Read More →
The post Jump Champs 3.0 appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Jump Champs 3.0 appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The Silver State 300 showed that no matter how fierce the competition, or how many hours are spent in preparation, the desert still provides the greatest challenge to offroad racers.Read More →
The post 2018 Silver State 300 appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post 2018 Silver State 300 appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Reid Nordin’s 2006 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited LJ is loaded with custom features to enhance its offroad capabilities, and to provide comfort for its occupants.Read More →
The post This Jeep Wrangler LJ Is Loaded to the Gills appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post This Jeep Wrangler LJ Is Loaded to the Gills appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>Bert Heck's Jeep JKU Wrangler.Read More →
The post Four Doors Are Better Than Two: Jeep JKU Wrangler appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Four Doors Are Better Than Two: Jeep JKU Wrangler appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The Ultra4 series King of the Hammers race is touted as the toughest single day offroad race in the world.Read More →
The post No Tougher Test Than KOH, King of the Hammers appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post No Tougher Test Than KOH, King of the Hammers appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The Mint 400 offroad race was a huge spectacle, even for Las Vegas.Read More →
The post Mint 400 Takes Over Las Vegas appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
]]>The post Mint 400 Takes Over Las Vegas appeared first on STATE OF SPEED.
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