2018 JLU Sport S - Fireball - A Mild Weekend Warrior build

[AA_Jeeper]

Hey all,

I'm here introducing my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JLU Sport S that I purchased recently. I'm hoping to use this to document my process and get tips/input, and just maybe this will help others.

We don't have a name yet but my kids are trying to convince me to call it "Fireball." This will be a weekend warrior build used for fun trips, greens and blues, and maybe some light overlanding/camping with my family.

Details:

• 2018 JLU Sport S, Firecracker Red
• 3.6 V6, 8 speed auto
• Rubicon takeoff wheels with new 285/70R17 tires
• No lift currently
• Came with both hard top and aftermarket Bestop slantback softop

History:
I bought this in December 2025 as a 3rd vehicle meant for fun, light to moderate offroading, fun family adventures, and because, frankly, I've always wanted a Jeep. I've grown up working on old cars and tractors, and my previous fun vehicle was a 1978 Dodge D100 Custom. I bought for $100 when I was 15, and then did a frame off restoration over 2 years. After owning and caring for it for 20+ years, I decided to sell it for a few reasons: I didn't drive it nearly enough, it was becoming a chore to drive as, with most older vehicles, there's always something to fix, it was only a single cab so we could not take it anywhere as a family, and because of the 3rd pedal (and the excessive engine that I built for it) my wife was not keen on driving it. After years of hemming and hawing, I finally decided to sell it and we agreed to look for a Jeep.

Then the JL popped up. It had 106,500 miles on it, and was priced at $17k. It has all service records showing consistent oil changes every 3-5k miles, oil cooler already replaced, valve cover and intake gaskets all done, and all maintenance done on time. I had them pull it into the showroom and climbed all over it- it's very clean everywhere and I suspect was garage kept as there's not a spot of rust to be found. The test drive was smooth, cold start was quiet with no ticking, highway driving was stable (can take my hand off the steering wheel and it tracks straight), and after the 20 mile test drive we made a deal.

My plans:
Overall, I want this to be a mild build capable of greens and blues, while also perfectly suited to highway trips and driving. On road stability is very important to me as we will be taking trips with the family. I also want to keep most of the appearance close to stock and tasteful as I like the styling of the JLs. I want to make memories with my family in this- trails, camping, etc.

So with all that, thinking I want:

• Mild spring lift 1.5-2.5 inch range – Trying to decide between the JKS 1.5, JKS 2.5, and Mopar 2". Big thanks to @Wabujitsu for some pics of his JKS lift setups, and I'm sure I'll be canvassing for more
• Eventual 35s (though with all my research, will probably go narrower than 12.5" and try to stay lighter in weight)
• Rubicon style bumper – I like the look and the ability to tuck away a winch
• Upgrade lights to LEDs eventually
• Some upgraded trail armor? Would like to protect a few more areas, but not sure yet.
• Wheels- contrary to most, I would like to keep the Rubicon takeoffs. I like how they look- they have a bit of a retro-yet-modern feel to me.

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[AA_Jeeper]

Mod 1 (not a mod) - I found a Mopar twill top on Facebook marketplace, new in the box a really great price.

I like the look of the squared off soft-top, and couldn't pass it up. Thus I'll have a decent condition Bestop up for sale this spring to thin out the garage.

Buying this right before Christmas, one of our first family adventures was driving the neighborhoods looking at lights, and going to our local "Lights in the Parkway." My daughters wanted a Rudolph nose, so we have that on hand now.

I also got my first duck in the first week of driving around. My kids love it. I've come to an agreement that we aren't going to stuff all of them onto the dash, but they can pick 1 per month to put up there. The "duck of the month" club if you will. I've seen the duck controversies- being a guy who's gone to car shows for my entire life, and having owned show cars, it's a great feeling for someone to say they like your work. In the Jeep world, that's a duck.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Small mod Saturday. Covering a few things I've done over the past few weeks. Some barely enough to be called a mod, but alas, I'll document things here anyways. Most of these are from Amazon, so I'll drop links and quasi reviews:

1. Shorty Antenna - 13"

Link: Amazon.com: RYDONAIR Antenna Compatible with Jeep Wrangler All Models 2007-2026 & Jeep Gladiator 2020-2026, Internal Copper Coil for Enhanced Reception, 13 inches Flexible Rubber Antenna Replacement : Electronics

Overall, I was trying to maintain some height for reception, but wanted something much shorty than the whip antenna that was on it. Install was dead simple, but there is an adapter (that comes in the kit) that goes in between the antenna and the Jeep. Reception is... okay... fine most times, but you do get some stations dropping in volume on certain roads. Nothing horrible, but more reason to use phone music/bluetooth/Android auto.

2. Front Seat Riser

Link - Amazon.com: Front Seat Riser Spacer Lift compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL JLU 2018-UP,Gladiator JT 2020-UP,fixed 3/4" Blocks Jackers Recline, More Comfort for Tall People(1 seat) : Automotive

After a few trips, I did notice the lack of support under my legs, and they'd feel a little tired. Expecting to take a few 5+ hour trips in this, I thought it would be good to get this done now. I'm 5'6" and opted for the 3/4" riser which ended up feeling great. I was wondering if I'd want the 1-1/2" risers, but after trying these, I'm happy. Install was simple but annoying to reach into the tight areas and have almost no room to swing a ratchet.

3. Dead Pedal

Link: Amazon.com: SHEAM Dead Pedal Foot Rest Pad - Left Side Kick Panel Anti-Slip Thickened Compatible with 2007-2025 Jeep Wrangler JK JL JLU 4xe Gladiator JT Adjustable No Drilling Black : Automotive

I noticed the lack of place to set your foot right away when driving the Jeep. After exploring a bit, I picked this dead pedal as it was one of the few that captures a few bolts on the firewall to prevent twisting/rotation towards the brakes, and because it has a few holes for adjustment. Install was easy- assemble the pedal outside the jeep, then bolt onto 3 existing studs on the firewall. Some bodily contortions required, but not too bad.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

With the snow moving through the area, I got out a few times to play. First storm was 6" of packing snow with some slush underneath. I exercised the 4 Hi and 4 Low on some of the unplowed roads and was impressed with the traction. Not much of a challenge, but it gives me some confidence in the new no-name-brand All-Terrain tires that came on this thing from the dealer.

A few weeks later we had a much more formiddable 12-14 of powdery snow with sleet on top. Luckily for us, the township adjacent to us was behind on plowing, so we got to actually challenge the Jeep a bit on unplowed roads. It did great wading through the snow and pushing through the mounds from the plows that were 2-3 feet high. The family and I had fun playing around and delivering an air mattress to the guys manning my fire station for the storm.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Bulletpoint with a Twist

It seems like there's almost nowhere for your phone other than the one spot in the cup holders. Seeing everyone using these Bulletpoint Rubigrid mounts, I drank the Koolaid and bought one. I must admit it's pretty sturdy and nice, though pricey.

Install was, again, pretty easy, using the existing holes/screws in the dash. I did NOT use the adhesive supplied with the kit as I want this to be reversible and so far it's plenty sturdy. You definitely need to use their shorty screwdriver supplied with the kit as the screws are #1 Philips and there's not a lot of room between the windshield and the dash to get a screwdriver.

Note- the standard length arms that the kit comes with are 7cm and little long for my taste because it got too close to the steering wheel and turn signal stalk. I ordered a shorter 4cm arm for the driver's side which is much more appropriate. The passenger side has the longer 7cm mount which will be fine for that side.




Here's where my duck-of-the-month idea meets the road. When we got the Jeep, the duck agreement with my girls is that they can pick one duck per month to display on the dash (I don't mind the ducks, it gets my kids involved and having fun, but also don't want to cover my dash with loose ducks).

I get to decide the first duck though- and with my 3D printer, I present the Eagle Duck lol.

There's a 1/4-20 threaded hole right in the center of the Bulletpoint panel, so threading a bolt up from the bottom gives me a nice stud to secure the ducks.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Radio Mounts

In preparation for trails, I wanted to get a nice mounting point for a radio. I already have some portable GMRS radios from some previous offroad adventures with my Grand Cherokee. I'm not sure that I ever want to do a permanent-mount radio as I don't see the need for this build.

So after thinking it over for a bit, I decided to make another purchase from Bulletpoint and ordered their ball mount for the front grab handle. Probably the easiest install ever and it's not too obtrusive.

I opted to get the radio mounts from Amazon (links below) and did a magnetic mount for the handset. A mini ball-mount keeps everything tucked nice and close to the dash, and I can reach over and just pull the hand-mic off the magnet to speak, and putting it back doesn't even require looking as the magnet just sucks it back when you're close. Actually the magnet is a little on the too-strong side, but I suppose that's better.

Best of all, when we're done with the trails, one thumb screw lets me remove everything and store it away.

Links:
Amazon.com: HYS 2-in-1 Truck Phone and Two-Way Radio Holder for Car Dash - Heavy Duty Aluminum CB Mic Mount with 1" Ball, for Oversized iPhone Android Phones, Expands to 3.54" : Cell Phones & Accessories

Amazon.com: BaoFeng Walkie Talkie Speaker Mic Microphone, Remote Shoulder Police Mic for Baofeng UV-5R Mini BF-F8HP Pro 5RM DM21 UV32 UV-21R K5PLUS GM-15 Pro UV-5G PlusAR-152 GM-5RH UV-17R Quansheng UV-K5 8 : Electronics

Amazon.com: HYSHIKRA Walkie-Talkie CB Mic Adapter 1/4" Standard Screw Mount Holder Clamp, Universal Radio Bracket Clip Attachment for BaoFeng Kenwood Yaesu Midland Motorola Quansheng HT : Electronics

Amazon.com: Magnetic Mic : Musical Instruments

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Some Trunk Storage

So starting on the storage for the Jeep, I've been looking at the saddle bags that fill the space between the rear seat and roll bar. I wanted something that has a lid for when the top is down, and also that had molle straps so I could attach my med kit.

After some searching, I settled on these. Amazon.com: YOCTM Wheel Well Storage Bin, Rear Trunk Organizer, Cargo Storage Tray compatible with 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU 4-Door, Interior Storage Expansion Accessories, Right Left Side, Black : Automotive

The install was simple- they use one of the hard top bolts, then wrap around the roll bar. A little piece of adhesive-backed velcro attaches to the roll bar to keep the strap in place, and so far, they're actually pretty sturdy.

The Molle loops are a bit tight, but I was able to get my quick break-away med kit installed. The med kit is a breakaway velcro style which let's you just pull to remove it and take it where you need it.

While back there, I also installed a fire extinguisher roll-bar mount that I had laying around. It has Velcro straps that wrap the bar and is pretty secure. I'm hoping there's enough room for the soft-top to pass, but it can swing down if needed. I also installed a smaller molle bag to the passenger side that I had laying around. So far, with the exception of the med kit, all the bags are empty. I'm sure they'll fill soon enough.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Trying a Tailgate Table

We take trips up to our mountain land a few times a year. On top of that, I want to use this Jeep for some camping trips, the drive in theater, and other fun adventures with the family. So what better than a tailgate table?

I searched around and settled on the Amazon link below because I like the pull-out extension/cutting board.

Amazon.com: E-cowlboy Drop Down Tailgate Table for 2007-2024 Jeep Wrangler JK JKU JL JLU Unlimited Sports Freedom Sahara Rubicon Rear Door Foldable Table Cargo Shelf Storage Cargo Luggage Holder Carrier : Automotive

This was also the first project my daughter helped me with. One of my other goals with this Jeep was to get my kids working on things with me. I grew up working on cars, so I'm hoping some of it rubs off. At the very least, they need to know how to use some tools.

The installation was simple, though the instructions were horrible. Youtube was my friend. Holes had to be drilled through the plastic tailgate cover, and the center of the holes is all marked on the plastic already. The bolts that secure the table go into the studs that are built into the Jeep. The only issue I had was one of the holes on the table didn't have enough slot, and I had to elongate it a bit to get all the bolts in. After that it was easy.

The table has adjustable rubber feet that keep it from rattling when closed which is nice. The finish of the cutting board could have been better, but my other hobby is woodworking, so I rounded over the edges, sanded to 400 grit, and applied a coat of wood-wax; MUCH better.

I also had to trim the rear cargo mat to allow the tailgate to close. It was unexpected, but not a big deal with a straight-edge and a box cutter.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Some small creature comforts

First up- roll bar handles. They're okay- 3 thick velcro straps wrap the roll bar, and they're attached just fine for me to pull on. When you pull, though, the ends tend to pull together a bit, and they are lower than I'd like. But they were cheap and help my kids get in the back especially.

Amazon.com: Savadicar 4 x Roll Bar Grab Handles Grip Handle for Jeep Wrangler CJ YJ TJ JK JKU JL JLU & Gladiator JT 1955-2023, Interior Accessories, Black & Red : Automotive

Next- sunglasses holder for the roll bar. Same attachment style; velcro around the roll bar. It's pretty nice, plenty of space, but again, hangs a bit low. I spun it up closer to the freedom top so I don't bump my head on it every time and it's stayed put since I sinched it tight.

Amazon.com: FSYHKJ Roll Bar Sunglasses Holder Fit for Wrangler TJ JK JL JT 2007-2025 Roll Bar Grab Handle Sunglasses Holder Storage Bag Car Glasses Storage Bag : Automotive

Third- a softer console cover. I like this the most; it feels really good on my elbow. The straps, however, do tend to interfere with the console latch, so you have to make sure it's adjusted right before closing the console. Not a huge deal, but annoying and worth it for the cushy cover.

Amazon.com: NICTSEPO Center Console Cover Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-2025, Armrest Cover with Pockets for Jeep Gladiator JT 2020-2025, armrest Cushion for Wrangler JL JLU&Gladiator JT Accessories : Automotive

 

[Ed Pursell]

Keep busy Adam! At least you have a “warm” area to do your mods!
I’m a 1/2 mile from LVI Airport Neighbor! Stay warm Bro!
-Ed-

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Keep busy Adam! At least you have a “warm” area to do your mods!
I’m a 1/2 mile from LVI Airport Neighbor! Stay warm Bro!
-Ed-

Nice to meet you online! Are you in the local Jeep club?

 

[HHGadget]

3. Dead Pedal

Link: Amazon.com: SHEAM Dead Pedal Foot Rest Pad - Left Side Kick Panel Anti-Slip Thickened Compatible with 2007-2025 Jeep Wrangler JK JL JLU 4xe Gladiator JT Adjustable No Drilling Black : Automotive

I noticed the lack of place to set your foot right away when driving the Jeep. After exploring a bit, I picked this dead pedal as it was one of the few that captures a few bolts on the firewall to prevent twisting/rotation towards the brakes, and because it has a few holes for adjustment. Install was easy- assemble the pedal outside the jeep, then bolt onto 3 existing studs on the firewall. Some bodily contortions required, but not too bad.

Thanks for the recommendation.
Just did the same. The Sheam seems to be a solid product with too many parts and poor instructions but…. Nothing an average guy like myself couldn’t figure out.
20 minute install, most of which was re-reading the directions and figuring out which nuts and screws go where.
Overall a solid product for a reasonable price.
Being a short person it is nice to finally have a dead pedal.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Thanks for the recommendation.
Just did the same. The Sheam seems to be a solid product with too many parts and poor instructions but…. Nothing an average guy like myself couldn’t figure out.
20 minute install, most of which was re-reading the directions and figuring out which nuts and screws go where.
Overall a solid product for a reasonable price.
Being a short person it is nice to finally have a dead pedal.

Glad it worked out for you. Yes, instructions aren't great.

 

[AA_Jeeper]

Thanks for the recommendation.
Just did the same. The Sheam seems to be a solid product with too many parts and poor instructions but…. Nothing an average guy like myself couldn’t figure out.
20 minute install, most of which was re-reading the directions and figuring out which nuts and screws go where.
Overall a solid product for a reasonable price.
Being a short person it is nice to finally have a dead pedal.

@HHGadget I have your ebay bumper on my saved list of "to-do" mods. Great pics and writeup. I want to get my lift done first in March, then bumper and winch (probably next year due to the $$ spent this year).

 

[HHGadget]

@HHGadget I have your ebay bumper on my saved list of "to-do" mods. Great pics and writeup. I want to get my lift done first in March, then bumper and winch (probably next year due to the $$ spent this year).

I keep it clean but it is still rust free. Always loved the steel bumpers but the price from Mopar is just too much for primarily an aesthetic in my book.
And thankfully the Chinese one i got didn't have the Dolly Parton sized crash can covers

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