From South Africa and got a 2003 KJ recently. I would to make it suitable to camping and what not. Considering putting in a drawer system and roof rack in the future. But I would like to know what are the first modifications you all would recommend and what parts would you recommend being replaced or being serviced since its so old. Thank you guys. P.S. Please give amy measurements in metric if possible.
Hi Ronan
Some suggestions/recommendations:
1) Upgrade of suspension - I use Ironman suspension with EFS shocks - a cost effective solution. Select the medium suspension load setting otherwise the ride is far too harsh and bumpy.
2) Fit a nudge bar (with a led light bar) in stead of a bull bar that is far to bulky and heavy
3) Retain the 16 inch steel wheel rims, but fit 2457016T All Terrain tyres. Steel rims are much more durable that chrome wheels. No need for larger than 16 inch rims/tyres, as it is more costly and wider wheels results in the vehicle getting bogged down in sand and mud.
4) Fit a medium size roof rack with a weight capacity of no more than 75kg, because the max payload capacity of of the window/door pillars and roof rack slide rails is about 70 kg.
5) Use a LED replacement light bulbs for the headlights (I think it is H7 or H9)
6) No need for a diff-lock unless you participate in extreme 4x4 off-road trails on a regular basis. It`s also expensive to maintain
7) Fit rock sliders
8) No need for an air snorkel unless you travel (dusty) gravel roads on a a regular basis
9) Obtain a quality towbar from a reputable dealer
10) General maintenance tips - Replace (i) engine oil & filter every 10 000km (Owners manual indicate evey 20 000km) and (ii) cambelt & water pump every 100 000km; (iii) have the cooling tested every 50 000km to determine whether the radiator is damaged, blocked and/or rusted in which case the water temp at the top will differ from the temp at the bottom, resluting in overheating, engine failure and a major repair bill!
Live without limits!
John