.... I quite like the trail in the JT. I didn't have to use a locker but hit my bed skids a few times and the hitch 6-7 times. Belly a couple of times (belly concerns me). I can totally see why
@Greg went to the 39" tires. I'm seriously considering swapping the "Jeep" tires to the JT and the JT tires to the"Jeep" before EJS. That should give me 3/4-1" of belly height which would be appreciated. Usually you can drive around the belly but there are times that's pretty dangerous to the sheet metal health. I am concerned about the D44 axles despite the internet lore about how bitchin they are
With a massive 137" wheelbase, a significant amount of overhang and plenty of important parts under the belly, 39-40's and 3-4" lift make the Gladiator much more capable. I still manage to drag the hitch every now and again, but the truck is so much easier to drive with big tires.
The wheelbase and breakover are a PITA on harder trails, but every now and again that massive wheelbase pays off and the JT will walk right up something you would have thought was impossible.
At this point, my stock axles are holding up... but I don't drive it on the throttle, I'm cautious getting it bound up, etc. I would like to upgrade to aftermarket ball joints, add steel knuckles, aftermarket u-joints and shafts as well as aftermarket tie rod and ends. IMO, the Artec truss was a good addition with the big tires.
Eric
