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.