One of the things that keeps life interesting at Wide Open Design is that no two projects are ever exactly alike. On any given day, we may be machining axle components, building a tube chassis Jeep, finishing a race buggy, or preparing multiple chassis kits for shipment across the country.
In this shop update, we're taking a walk through the shop to show some of the exciting projects currently under construction and give everyone a look behind the scenes at what our team has been building.
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The Return of the "Blower Buggy"
Long-time followers of Wide Open Design may recognize this buggy.
Originally built for Dr. Adam, this rig was known around the shop as the "Blower Buggy." While the supercharger is no longer part of the package, the buggy now runs an LS3 engine and remains one of our favorite builds from years past.
The vehicle is currently back in the shop for some cleanup, tuning, and final preparation before heading to its next owner.
Magnum Knuckle Production in Full Swing
Behind every finished vehicle is a mountain of machining work. Our machine shop has been busy producing components for Crane Axle Magnum Knuckle assemblies, including heat-treated 40-spline spindles used in our heavy-duty front axle packages.
The process starts with rough machining, followed by heat treating, and then final finish machining to achieve the precision and strength required for demanding off-road applications.
Popular applications include:
- Rock Crawlers
- Rock Bouncers
- Ultra4 Cars
- Jeep Builds
- Pre-runners
Hubert Rowland's RZR Buggy 2.0
After successfully racing the original Rzr Buggy at King of the Hammers, Hubert Rowland returned for Version 2.0.
While the original vehicle focused heavily on race performance, this new build is aimed more toward trail riding and recreational wheeling.
Updates include:
- Front-mounted radiator
- Swinging doors
- Refined chassis layout
- Improved usability
- Additional trail-focused features
Before final fabrication began, the chassis was fully mocked up with suspension, wheels, and tires to verify steering clearance, suspension travel, and CV angles.
The "Moab to Mexico" Jeep LJ
One of the most unique projects in the shop continues to be the custom Jeep LJ built around a Wide Open Design chassis and Aqualu aluminum tub.
Designed to handle everything from East Coast rock crawling to desert pre-running in Mexico, this build blends trail capability with high-speed performance.
Key Features
- WOD LJ Chassis
- Aqualu Aluminum LJ Tub
- Crane Axle 14-Bolt Axles
- Crane Magnum Knuckles
- Radflo 3.0 Bypass Shocks
- WOD 7075 Aluminum Trailing Arms
- WOD 7075 Link Bars
- LS Engine
- TH400 Transmission
- Atlas Transfer Case
- 40-Gallon Fuel System
One of the coolest parts of the build is the custom rear body modification. To get the suspension travel we wanted, the factory LJ tub was reshaped with a raised and rolled rear flare section that provides additional tire and suspension clearance while creating a one-of-a-kind appearance.
Additional features include:
- Adjustable actuator-controlled light bar
- Removable roof rack
- Lockable tool storage
- Hand-built aluminum interior
- RacePak instrumentation
This Jeep was designed to be equally comfortable exploring Moab, running East Coast trails, or spending time in the deserts of Mexico.
The First Tube Chassis Jeep JL
Some projects push boundaries. Scott Grove's Jeep JL is one of those projects. Built as what we believe to be one of the first tube chassis JL ever constructed, this vehicle combines modern Jeep styling with serious off-road performance.
Build Highlights
- Tube Chassis Construction
- V8 Power
- Crane Magnum Knuckles
- 40-Spline Front Axle
- 14-Bolt Rear Axle
- Coilovers
- Bypass Shocks
- Heavy-Duty Braking System
Recently returned from powder coat, the chassis is finished in an awesome Speedway Black metallic finish that looks great with the bright orange JL body.
As final assembly continues, this build continues to attract attention from Jeep enthusiasts and off-road builders alike.
Rock Bouncer X Chassis Ready to Ship
Several Rock Bouncer X chassis are currently heading out to customers across the country. The latest version incorporates numerous refinements over the original platform, including:
- Narrower firewall design
- Improved rear body structure
- Enhanced laser-cut brackets
- Cleaner fabrication details
- Improved packaging and fitment
As with all of our chassis, the goal is to create a strong foundation that allows customers to build exactly what they want.
Custom Builds for Every Customer
The final projects in today's update shows what makes custom fabrication so rewarding. One customer is taking delivery of a California-bound Rock Bouncer X built around modern components and proven suspension geometry.
Another customer from Kentucky is building a more traditional-style buggy powered by a Small Block Chevy, TH350 transmission, and NP205 transfer case.
While the components may differ, the goal remains the same: Build a vehicle that matches the owner's vision.
Whether that means fuel injection or a carburetor, a Magnum Knuckle front axle or a Dana 60, a Grizzly Locker or a spool, our team works to deliver a finished vehicle that fits the customer's needs and driving style. We're incredibly grateful for the customers who trust us with their builds and allow us to do what we love every day.
Questions or Comments?
We'd love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions.