Get an exclusive look at the daily operations and elite projects currently moving through the Wide Open Design facility. From raw material machining to final assembly, this update showcases the "master-level" craftsmanship that goes into every build.
In the Machine Shop
The journey of a high-end build starts in our machining bay, where we utilize a Haas lathe and mill to create precision components. This week, we are turning custom aluminum weld pucks and machining raw Crane Axle castings to create our heavy-duty knuckles. We also maintain a full inventory of American-grade 7075 aluminum to ensure the fastest turnaround in the industry for custom suspension links.
Current Projects in Fabrication
- The "Ultimate Trail Machine": We are putting the final touches on a featured build for Don Ryan, heading to California. It features an LS engine, 14-bolt steering axles front and rear, and a dual-shock setup with Radflo coilovers and bypasses.
- Texas-Bound 4-Seater: Fresh back from powder coating, this Revolution 2.0 chassis is receiving its Mass Motorsports engine and Turbo 400 transmission. It’s designed as a premier family trail rig with full door options for comfort and safety.
- The Pro-Touring LJ: One of our most exciting current projects is a Jeep LJ build that integrates hardcore performance with luxury amenities. We’ve engineered this cage to allow the factory soft top and hard doors to function perfectly, while still accommodating a full-travel suspension and even a working A/C compressor.
- Modern Innovation: We also have a brand-new Jeep JL in the shop for a top-secret build—stay tuned for more on this "orange-themed" project.
Real-World Problem Solving
Even at a master level, we face the same challenges you do at home. We are currently troubleshooting a manufacturer-boxed transfer case issue on a nearly completed buggy. We pride ourselves on working through these technical hurdles with the same patience and precision we expect from our DIY community.
To help you navigate the Wide Open Design Shop Update, here are the key timestamps for the different builds and sections mentioned in the video:
- [00:00:24] – Machining & Parts: A look at the Haas lathe and mill where aluminum weld pucks and Crane Axle castings are machined.
- [00:01:10] – 7075 Aluminum Rack: An overview of the high-grade American aluminum used for custom suspension links.
- [00:01:41] – Jeep CJ Chassis: A completed chassis and cage setup designed to allow easy removal and replacement of a CJ body.
- [00:02:41] – Don Ryan’s "Ultimate Trail Machine": A detailed look at the California-bound buggy featuring four-wheel steering and bypass shocks.
- [00:03:14] – Texas 4-Seat Revolution 2.0: Final assembly of a family-style trail rig with a Mass Motorsports 416 and 14-bolt axles.
- [00:04:13] – The "Transfer Case Fight": A real-world look at the team troubleshooting a planetary range box issue on a current build.
- [00:05:03] – New Jeep JL Project: A brief glimpse at a brand-new orange Jeep JL fresh off the lot for a custom build.
- [00:06:03] – The Pro-Touring LJ Build: A deep dive into the Jeep LJ chassis designed to retain the factory top, doors, and A/C.