The Top 5: If you're building a 4x4, then these should be the first items on your list

I was listening to my buddies Verne Simons and Trent McGee on a podcast the other day, and one of the hosts asked them, “What’s the best off-road upgrade you’ve made to a 4x4?” I won’t divulge their answers because, in my opinionated opinion, only one of them answered correctly.

- CHRISTIAN HAZEL

Since I started in this business over 20 years ago, I’ve built more than two dozen of my own 4x4s, and that’s not counting the full-bore magazine or video projects I’ve been involved with. So, when it comes to what gets you the biggest offroad bang for your buck, I’ve definitely curated a formula that at least works for me, and more than likely will for you, too. Here, in something of the running order, are my top five off-road upgrades for your 4x4.

Rear Locker

Open diffs are often frustrating off-road. A limited-slip is better, but it’s got the word “limited” right in the description. If you’re used to wheeling your rig with open diffs and want a “can’t believe the night-and-day difference” upgrade in your off-road capability, adding a rear locker or spool will blow your mind. If you can only afford one, do the rear first and then add the front when and if you can.

Good Tires and/or Beadlocks