Essential Rig Modifications and Gear
Larry's off-roading journey has underscored the importance of meticulous preparation. Before embarking on their annual trek, Larry and his crew thoroughly inspect and upgrade their rigs. Techniques such as marking inspected bolts with paint for easy looseness identification and pre-trip vehicle articulation tests can prevent surprises on the trail.
Firstly, Larry insists on the necessity of a high-quality suspension system and reliable tires.
"Granite up there can break with sharp edges like a knife," Larry recalls, stressing the advantage of BFGoodrich tires in difficult situations: "You pull up with a good set of BFGs, you've already got a step ahead — and that's going to get you home or it's going to get him home." – Larry Madrid
He also recommends investing in skid plates and rock sliders to protect your vehicle against the trail's relentless obstacles. The Rubicon Trail Foundation notes that while a stock Jeep Wrangler can navigate the trail using bypasses, avoiding damage requires larger tires (33”), a lift kit (3”), body protection (rocker guards), and a locking or limited-slip differential.
"I also carry a welder, spare parts, alternators, starters, fan belts, stuff like that." Larry's list of what to bring has expanded over the years, but he concludes that for a fault-free trip, you'll need your buddies' rigs to be stocked too. "If somebody breaks, nobody's standing around looking. Tools are coming out of every Jeep. Oh, I've got an extra one of those — I've got a brake line — I've got brake fluid! There isn't one guy that can carry everything. That's impossible."