We will start with the engine.  By swapping in a V-8 powerplant, we will then have adequate power to turn the heavy duty drivetrain and monster meats.  From there, we will swap in a granny-geared transmission, either an NP435 or an NV4500.  Hopefully, we will be able to get our grubby little hands on an Atlas II transfer case with the 4.3:1 extreme crawl ratio also. The fun really begins when we get to the axles.  Hopefully, if all goes according to plans, we will be swapping in Dana 60 front and Dana 70 rear axles.  If we are really lucky, we might even get ARB lockers installed in them.  Now you might think that this is just a bit of overkill, but that is the name of the project isn't it?  Strapped to the axles will be 35" tires that will help us achieve the ground clearance that we will lose by using such heavy duty axles.  As for now, we haven't quite decided what axle ratio we want to go with yet.  It will either be 4.10 or 4.56.  Of course, there will be other various drivetrain upgrades also, such as Centerforce clutch, heavy duty u-joints, etc.

The suspension is an undertaking in its own.  We are going to need some serious lift to achieve our goals here, but we can't get to crazy or the Jeep will topple over on the trail.  Hopefully, Project Overkill will be trying out the newest version of the Skyjacker Monoleaf system.  The new version hasn't been released yet, but it is specially designed to provide adequate flex and articulation for serious off-roading. 

Of course there will be a multitude of other accessories that will help make this YJ a little more functional, practical, and hopefully more comfortable.  We already have a 9000 pound winch to adorn the front of the rig, and we will also be adding rock crusher bumpers front and rear.  To protect from protruding boulders, Overkill will have corner guards and rocker panel guards also.

To address the safety issue, a custom roll cage will have to be installed.  Whether you're mudding, rock crawling, or playing in the sand box, you could always use a good roll cage.  We will be installed 5 point safety harnesses to keep us in our seats when the going gets rough.  There will also be a fire extinguisher to help alleviate any hot spots we might have.

As always, we would really like to hear your opinions/comments on this project, so please e-mail us.

If you have any suggestions or comments about this project, please e-mail the Jeep Section Editor at harbaugh@off-road.com .

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