I noticed this frame bracket took a real beating off-road and was actually the reason for needing a winch pull.
After a little research it is called a “Tire Deflector Bracket” and was added to prevent the tire from going under the frame in a crash and rolling over the Jeep. I am all for safety, but it was just too much of an issue. They must have bolted it on before they mounted the body, so there was no way to get it off without chopping it up.
So much cleaner without it!
Next stage of my build is beginning! Just received the Gen 2 74Weld Portals and have some 38x13.5 Nitto Trail Grapplers mounted on some 17" Raceline Ryno Beadlocks coming in the next few weeks.
Stoked to take the Jeep to the next level, and join some forum friends on a few Rubicon trips!
Finally had a chance to install the portals. Was a pretty basic install, although with all the little things it ended up taking about 12 hours total. So far I am super impressed as it drive like stock on 38s and the diff clearance is mind blowing.
Some serious billet goodness.
Friends garage (not my benz in the back)
Plenty of ground clearance!
My friends girlfriend said “Ohhh your wheels are bejewled” 
Can’t wait to get it on some rocks to test things out!
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SICK!!! This thing is badass!
Jeep looks great, man. Looking forward to your long term thoughts on the portals.
That Mercedes in the background needs a superlight 
