Tag NAPA

TuffStuff Alternator & NAPA Belt Tensioner Install

I’ve lost faith in my OEM Alternator. It hasn’t given me an signs that it’s on the way out, but it’s nearly 200,000 KM old and I don’t want it to fail at the worst possible time; while I’m soloing on some obscure trail for example.

While I’m swapping the Alternator out I’m also doing the belt tensioner. I’ve noticed some noisier cold starts than usual as of late and the bearing definitely feels a bit notchy. The pulley on the tensioner is often overlooked and in wet or muddy conditions it tends to take a beating!

It could just be me, but I want just a little bit of peace of mind out on the trails.

Read More
Yukon Rear Axle-Shaft Upgrade & Park Brake Install

My stock axle shafts were in fine condition, with the exception of a very slow axle seal leak. Regardless, I wanted piece of mind out on the trails that Chromoly Axle-shafts give. So I installed a set of Yukon Gear 4340 Chromoly Axle-Shafts. While there I replaced my parking brake shoes and hardware.

Read More
Jeep Wrangler Mud Bogging & Idler Pulley Replacement

Like most Jeep owners that actually wheel, I like getting my Jeep nice and muddy. But mud is actually pretty hard on your Jeep. Specifically your Belt Tensioner, the Idler Pulleys and your Alternator. The pulley on the tensioner as well as the idler pulley can seize up. If this happens, the belt will melt. Because the belt on many models drives the power steering pump, the power brakes, alternator and most importantly the water pump will stop functioning.

I’ve found this out the hard way a couple times.

Read More
Jeep Wrangler Front Axle Seal Replacement, Hub Installation & TeraFlex 3304100/3304000 Axle Upgrade

My 2012 Jeep Rubicon now has 171,000 KM on her and I felt it was time to replace the front axle seals. They weren’t leaking which I am told is a rarity in a Jeep Rubi’s age. The black-book estimate on this job is 4.9 hours, so while I was there I decided some more upgrades were in order.

Read More