Extreme Recon Package Worth it for Me?

[treillw]

Hello,

I'm planning on purchasing a 2020 JLU Rubicon by factory order. I'm looking at their extreme recon package option. You're probably familiar with it, but the package includes the following:

• 110-MPH Vehicle Max Speed Calibration
• 17-Inch x 8.0-Inch Beadlock-Capable Wheel
• 35-Inch Tire Suspension
• 4.56 Rear Axle Ratio
• Anti-Lock 4-Wheel Disc Performance Brakes
• 3rd Generation Heavy-Duty Dana® 44 Front Axle
• GVW Rating - 6,100 Pounds
• LT315/70R17C 113/110S Tires
• Hinge-Gate Reinforcement by Mopar®
• Jack Spacer by Mopar®
• Tire Relocation Kit by Mopar®
• Wheel Flare Extensions

I mainly want some extra ground clearance for driving around in sketchy Montana mountain snow. I'd also like to explore more than your average person would to find some cool lakes, etc. I probably don't need the stronger axle; the standard Rubicon axles are probably already overkill for the level of off-roading that I'm going to do. I currently don't do any "jeep trails", just drive around all over on the forest service roads recreationally, but I'm sure I'll get into more "Jeepy roads and places" once I actually own one - just not crazy crazy stuff.

I'm reaching out to get your opinion on whether or not this package is worth it for me and see what other options I would have at what costs. I've been reading around here and read that the suspension on the lift in the package isn't the best - it's the just factory suspension with added spacers. Some people are saying the 2" Mopar lift with the fox shocks is a better way to go.

My end goal is 35" tires with enough clearance to use chains. What would you recommend?

Is there much demand for selling the stock Rubicon wheels and tires if I do not get the package?

Edit:
So the reason I want a Rubicon and big tires is for the locking axles and extra ground clearance for driving around in snow. I get into some very remote places with a lot of snow, by myself, in dark, with mostly no cell service, sometimes at 20 below temperatures. I've already unknowingly gone through snow drifts that had snow coming over the windshield in my Cherokee; everything looks the same in a fresh sea of white and you can't tell how deep the snow is until you're in it.

If I get stuck and can't get out, I could have a 10 mile walk to the nearest house. Getting a tow truck to my vehicle would present ridiculous costs. Going with a buddy is not an option; I don't share hunting spots!

I may be wrong, but in my mind big tires with more clearance and the added traction offered by dual locking axles is worth the peace of mind that I have a better chance of not having any unplanned misadventures.

Thanks!

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[rcadden]

For your described usage, you don't need it - the standard Rubicon (hell, even a Sport) would be more than capable to handle the type of usage that you're planning on doing.

However, if you plan to go to 35s at some point in the future, then IMO you might as well get them now, installed by the factory, under warranty, and with the proper "extras" (axles, gearing, etc).

You really probably don't need 35s for what you're saying you're likely to do, TBH.

 

[Cjanak21]

Sounds like the XR package isn't worth it for you in my opinion, yes it may be "cool" but not nessary. The Rubicon without the XR package is BEYOND capiable by its self! You would be better spending the $4k on a mopar lift and 35's aftermarket. But if you just want the ease of getting a small "ok" lift from factory and 35's just get the XR package. You can't go wrong either way... enjoy!

 

[jhackathorne]

FYI… you will not be able to order a 2020 Rubicon. They stopped making them over a year ago when they started making the 2021 models and have since stopped producing those in favor of 2022.

 

[treillw]

FYI… you will not be able to order a 2020 Rubicon. They stopped making them over a year ago when they started making the 2021 models and have since stopped producing those in favor of 2022.

That's what happens when I wake up early.... it's still 1992, right?

 

[treillw]

For your described usage, you don't need it - the standard Rubicon (hell, even a Sport) would be more than capable to handle the type of usage that you're planning on doing.

However, if you plan to go to 35s at some point in the future, then IMO you might as well get them now, installed by the factory, under warranty, and with the proper "extras" (axles, gearing, etc).

You really probably don't need 35s for what you're saying you're likely to do, TBH.

So the reason I want a Rubicon and big tires is for the locking axles and extra ground clearance for driving around in snow. I get into some very remote places with a lot of snow, by myself, in dark, with mostly no cell service, sometimes at 20 below temperatures. I've already unknowingly gone through snow drifts that had snow coming over the windshield in my Cherokee; everything looks the same in a fresh sea of white and you can't tell how deep the snow is until you're in it.

If I get stuck and can't get out, I could have a 10 mile walk to the nearest house. Getting a tow truck to my vehicle would present ridiculous costs. Going with a buddy is not an option; I don't share hunting spots!

I may be wrong, but in my mind big tires with more clearance and the added traction offered by dual locking axles is worth the peace of mind that I have a better chance of not having any unplanned misadventures.

 

[rcadden]

So the reason I want a Rubicon and big tires is for the locking axles and extra ground clearance for driving around in snow. I get into some very remote places with a lot of snow, by myself, in dark, with mostly no cell service, sometimes at 20 below temperatures. I've already unknowingly gone through snow drifts that had snow coming over the windshield in my Cherokee; everything looks the same in a fresh sea of white and you can't tell how deep the snow is until you're in it.

If I get stuck and can't get out, I could have a 10 mile walk to the nearest house. Getting a tow truck to my vehicle would present ridiculous costs. Going with a buddy is not an option; I don't share hunting spots!

I may be wrong, but in my mind big tires with more clearance and the added traction offered by dual locking axles is worth the peace of mind that I have a better chance of not having any unplanned misadventures.

TBH what's likely to help you more than clearance and bigger tires is a solid bumper with a good winch. For the front that's ~$2-3K, depending on what you choose. That's more likely to get you out of situations like you described than anything else.

 

[treillw]

TBH what's likely to help you more than clearance and bigger tires is a solid bumper with a good winch. For the front that's ~$2-3K, depending on what you choose. That's more likely to get you out of situations like you described than anything else.

Very often there is nothing to winch off of. Nothing but fence posts (if you're lucky) and sage brush out on the prairie.

 

[blueweb]

Big tires and chains can only get you so far in the snow. It almost sounds like you are better doing this to your Jeep.

https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/forum/threads/sane-or-insane-with-my-jl-on-snow-tracks.62926/

 

[Krondor]

Going wheeling alone is not wise, but a lot of us do it.

Get the winch and good recovery gear. Traction aids like the Maxtrax boards, a bag of sand/litter, shovel, and the like will be a must to get yourself unstuck. Remember to air down for traction.

Also keep water, food, blankets, med kit, etc in the Jeep.

The factory 35's and 4.56 gears would be nice, but I think you will be quite happy with a standard Rubicon for your needs. IMHO

 

[treillw]

Big tires and chains can only get you so far in the snow. It almost sounds like you are better doing this to your Jeep.

https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/forum/threads/sane-or-insane-with-my-jl-on-snow-tracks.62926/

Would be awesome, but doesn't help me on the 1.5 hour drive to said secluded area.

 

[treillw]

Can the factory install the 2" mopar lift?

If you install it yourself (or at local shop) does it alter the warranty?

Thanks!

 

[Krondor]

Can the factory install the 2" mopar lift?

If you install it yourself (or at local shop) does it alter the warranty?

Thanks!

Yes.
No.

 

[viper88]

Can the factory install the 2" mopar lift?

If you install it yourself (or at local shop) does it alter the warranty?

Thanks!

Get the XR if it is not a matter of cost and want peace of mine everything will be under warranty.

 

[treillw]

Regardless of whether or not I "need" the lift and 35s, I want it

If my snow adventures are my excuse for that, so be it I guess.

That being said, which route is better? Cost is a concern to the level of wanting the best deal.

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