Falken Tire Corporation's 2009 Jeep Rubicon Unlimited Wows Attendees at SEMA
- 20 Nov 2012
This was not the company's first rodeo, as they had been showcasing their work at SEMA events for many years. They were aware that it would be rewarding at the project's end, but the work and preparation involved could prove pain-staking. Contracting David Chappelle, with Chappelle Kustoms, of El Cajon, California, to make the build, Falken Tire Corporation had a vision of what the finished product should be. In fact, the rig was designed "to serve as an extreme rock crawler to prove the capability of the Falken WildPeak A/T Tires." Choosing a Jeep Rubicon with parts availability and marketing opportunities in mind, Falken opted to power the four-wheel-drive with a 3.8 liter, V6 engine. The electronic fuel injected fuel system was equipped with a K&N intake system, and a Dynomax exhaust allowed for an adequate flow of air at the combustion process' end.
An OE Rubicon, automatic transmission was bolted to the bell-housing and a Rubicon 4:1 transfer case would lend to an ability to conquer all terrains. The Dynatrac Pro Series 60 High-Pinion Front Axel would be asked to drive the front axels with a 5:38 gear ratio, while the rear-end sported a Dynatrac Pro Series 60 High-Pinion Semi-Float rear axel, sharing the same gear ratio as the front differential. A suspension capable of withstanding the rigors of maneuvering rugged and demanding obstacle courses is an essential element of the sport. With that said, Falken Tire Corporation had no intentions of doing anything less than depending upon top-notched equipment. They used Long Travel with King Coilovers (double Bypass) for the front suspension and opted for Cantilever Long Travel with King Coilovers (Double Bypass) on the back. They also utilized Billet long arms for additional suspension. The vehicle is managed with PSC Hydro Assist Steering, The steering assembly consists of a High Steer Kit Dana 60, sporting a Ram skid plate and a Ram Mount Custom tie-rod and custom drag-link.
The mechanical components of any high-performance rig is obviously of utmost importance, but in the world of building demos and show vehicles, esthetics also rank high on the list. Confident their Jeep Rubicon Unlimited was physically sound and ready for the sport, they also focused on the components that would be noticed by the spectators. They opted to paint the custom truck body, sporting a service tool box, a custom military Desert Tan color. The Truck-like Co. LED headlights, and sPOD AUX Switchboard PIAA Rock Lights added to the looks and performance of the vehicle's exterior.
Of course, wheels and tires would be the focal point, as Falken Tire Corporation was responsible for the execution of this impressive build. That being said, they went with 18"X9.5" Raceline RT Monster, forged aluminum Beadlock wheels and chose Falken WildPeak A/T 37"X13.5"OR18" tires, not only to accentuate the vehicle, but tackle any course separating them from success. With the project behind them, they were satisfied with the final result - a showy rig that was equally capable of performing. When asked why they chose a K&N intake system, Falken Tire Corporation, Off Road supervisor, Nestor Cabrera said, "Because it works. We first started using K&N products way back when Ken Johnson and Norm McDonald were making handle bars."
Other Jeeps at SEMA included AEV Conversions Jeep Wrangler JK, Rebeca Olavarrieta's 2011 Jeep Wrangler, the Project Rescue Rubicon 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, BDS Suspension Modified Jeep TJ and the award winning Jeep Wrangler JK Hemi with 4WD. Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world. |
