Currie Enterprises' all-out Wrangler

The Jeep 4x4 YJ/Wrangler's popularity continues to rise, and Currie Enterprises has taken serious stock of the truck's potential. An avid family of off-roaders, the Curries have applied their high-performance engineering prowess to a series of Jeep-oriented components.

Frank Currie focused on an '88 Wrangler as a test bed for new product development. The 4.2L six gave way to a Rodec 350 Chevy block with a potent 383 stroker kit. Brodix heads and a '90 Corvette TPI induction system keep the truck motivated, while on serious trails, custom cooling by Y.L. Radiator takes the heat.

Art Carr built a 700R-4 automatic overdrive to harness the horsepower and transmit it to the stock transfer case. From the transfer case outward, the Currie Enterprises, success formula takes shape.

Gone is the Wrangler's OEM semi-floating front wheel-bearing system and lighter axle. The new Currie Enterprises front axle is a Ford 9-inch unit with a 4.11 gearset, Detroit Locker assembly and aluminum gearcase housing. The Curries fitted '86 CJ steering knuckles, hubs and disc brake rotors and added Superwinch locking hubs.

A 9-inch Ford axle also prevails at the rear, with a Detroit Locker doubling up the traction. The weight-saving aluminum gearcase and heavy-duty housing take the stresses of desert pounding and trail running. Forged alloy 31-spline axles and a Lincoln disc brake conversion bear the mark of Currie stamina and fine craftsmanship.

Unitrax built the driveshafts, while suspension relies on Rancho RS5000 shocks. Greaseable shackles by Currie Enterprises and custom spring plates by Frank Currie add durability. Re-arched stock leaf springs (three-inch lift front/two-inch rear with a torque leaf added at the rear) are the handiwork of Vehicle Spring Service.

ALWAYS ROOM FOR ACCESSORIES

For utility, the '88 Wrangler benefits from a Warn winch and Tank Tough fuel tank. The Curries carry HI-Lift jacks, and final traction comes from BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires mounted on Center Line wheels.

At the custom-built rear bumper, the Curries included a receiver mount. A stainless steel bumper enhances the front view of the Wrangler's bold styling. The custom paint work by Miracle Design gives the truck its show-winning looks.

Like other areas of the truck, the engine bay furnishes a test ground for new concepts. The aircompressor assembly is a Currie prototype. After thorough testing in the real world, the compressor will become a "kit" in the Currie Enterprises product line.

TRICKLE-DOWN EFFECT

The Currie Enterprises' Wrangler is a welcome concept. Since 1987, the Wrangler has been a great truck in need of specialty equipment. As a successor the CJ, Wranglers now have support from quality aftermarket suppliers and equipment manufacturers like Currie Enterprises.

Currie Enterprises has many years of experience with high-performance axle design. As a producer of rugged, race-proven axle hardware, the Curries know machinery. Their interest and research about the Jeep Wrangler provide a real service to consumers.

Wranglers have the looks, frame, body style and comfort that make an off-pavement winner. Currie Enterprises can now provide the rest. Thanks, Curries, for your personal interest in off-roading and commitment to improving our trucks!