Project: The Da Ros JC | Classic Soul, Modern Backbone
The Ultimate Frame-Up Evolution for the CJ/YJ Enthusiast.
Ron Da Ros didn’t want to lose the classic spirit of his Jeep, but he was ready to lose the limitations of a 30-year-old chassis. The answer was our Wide Open Design JC Chassis—a platform engineered to give the classic CJ/YJ body the strength and suspension travel of a modern rock crawler without losing its heritage.
The Power of Reliability:
Under the hood, we kept it "bulletproof simple" with a GM LS1 pushing a reliable 330 HP. This isn't about winning a drag race; it’s about having smooth, predictable torque when you’re halfway up a ledge. We backed it with the legendarily indestructible TH400/NP205 drivetrain combo and a custom S/S Flowmaster exhaust that gives it that signature American V8 growl.
Currie-Strength Foundation:
When it comes to the axles, Ron went with the best: Currie 9-inch housings front and rear. These axles offer the perfect balance of ground clearance and raw strength. Paired with Fox 2.0 Coilovers and our WOD Wilwood Brake Kit, the "Da Ros JC" stops as fast as it climbs and rides smoother than any leaf-sprung Jeep ever could.
The Driver’s Office:
Inside, this build is all about business. We installed a WOD Steering Column topped with a Longacre suede wheel for maximum grip, while Momo seats keep Ron planted through the off-camber sections. High-intensity HID lighting ensures that when the sun goes down in the mountains, the trail stays visible.
| Category | Component | Technical Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Chassis | WOD JC Chassis | Engineered for Jeep CJ/YJ Bodies |
| Engine | GM LS1 | 330 HP; Naturally Aspirated V8 |
| Exhaust | Stainless Steel | Integrated Flowmaster Muffler |
| Cooling | Custom Aluminum | High-Flow Radiator & Fan Setup |
| Transmission | TH400 | 3-Speed Auto with Winters Shifter |
| Transfer Case | NP205 | Heavy-Duty Gear Driven |
| Axles (F/R) | Currie 9" | High-Pinion Currie Housings |
| Suspension | Fox 2.0 Coilovers | Precision Tuned Long-Travel |
| Braking | WOD / Wilwood | Custom-fit Wilwood High-Output Kit |
| Fueling | WOD Aluminum | Custom Fabricated Fuel Cell |
| Steering | WOD / Longacre | WOD Column; 11.5" Suede Steering Wheel |
| Seating | Momo | Performance Racing Seats |
| Lighting | HID System | High-Intensity Interior/Exterior Package |
| Armor | 3/8" Aluminum | Full Belly Skid Plate |
