Falken had a quite impressive display at the SEMA 2012
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Although the 2012 SEMA was nine months down the road, the Falken Tire Corporation was aware that the project in front of them would prove time consuming. That in mind, they embarked upon the first steps of a process that would eventually transform a stock, 2009 Jeep Rubicon Unlimited into a piece of custom work that would leave auto enthusiasts' mouths watering.
This was not the company's first rodeo, as they had been showcasing their work at SEMA events for many years. They were aware that it would be rewarding at the project's end, but the work and preparation involved could prove pain-staking.
Contracting David Chappelle, with Chappelle Kustoms, of El Cajon, California, to make the build, Falken Tire Corporation had a vision of what the finished product should be. In fact, the rig was designed "to serve as an extreme rock crawler to prove the capability of the Falken WildPeak A/T Tires."
Choosing a Jeep Rubicon with parts availability and marketing opportunities in mind, Falken opted to power the four-wheel-drive with a 3.8 liter, V6 engine. The electronic fuel injected fuel system was equipped with a K&N intake system, and a Dynomax exhaust allowed for an adequate flow of air at the combustion process' end.
SEMA 2012 - The Falken Jeep has all the right modificaitons one could hope for when it comes to functionality
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An OE Rubicon, automatic transmission was bolted to the bell-housing and a Rubicon 4:1 transfer case would lend to an ability to conquer all terrains. The Dynatrac Pro Series 60 High-Pinion Front Axel would be asked to drive the front axels with a 5:38 gear ratio, while the rear-end sported a Dynatrac Pro Series 60 High-Pinion Semi-Float rear axel, sharing the same gear ratio as the front differential.
A suspension capable of withstanding the rigors of maneuvering rugged and demanding obstacle courses is an essential element of the sport. With that said, Falken Tire Corporation had no intentions of doing anything less than depending upon top-notched equipment.
They used Long Travel with King Coilovers (double Bypass) for the front suspension and opted for Cantilever Long Travel with King Coilovers (Double Bypass) on the back. They also utilized Billet long arms for additional suspension.
The vehicle is managed with PSC Hydro Assist Steering, The steering assembly consists of a High Steer Kit Dana 60, sporting a Ram skid plate and a Ram Mount Custom tie-rod and custom drag-link.
SEMA is all about displaying your product to draw a crowd and this Wrangler meets the task
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ASFIR 4X4 skid plates, and Chappelle Kustom Sliders were attached underneath to avoid any bumps and bruises as the rig is maneuvered over a plethora of boulders and other obstacles.
SEMA 2012 - This hardcore Jeep sports a K&N intake system which is designed to increase the vehicle's horsepower
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A Warn 10,000 winch connected to a 1/4-pounder bumper and stinger was considered more than adequate to assist in muscling the Jeep through the most rugged of terrain. In the event of a roll-over the driver would find comfort in knowing that they were secured in a MasterCraft Baja RS seat with a MasterCraft four-point harness system.
The mechanical components of any high-performance rig is obviously of utmost importance, but in the world of building demos and show vehicles, esthetics also rank high on the list. Confident their Jeep Rubicon Unlimited was physically sound and ready for the sport, they also focused on the components that would be noticed by the spectators.
They opted to paint the custom truck body, sporting a service tool box, a custom military Desert Tan color. The Truck-like Co. LED headlights, and sPOD AUX Switchboard PIAA Rock Lights added to the looks and performance of the vehicle's exterior.
SEMA 2012 - Tires are a crucial part of any vehicle and Falken has you covered when it comes to offroad use
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Those checking out the interior of the Jeep will be impressed upon seeing a Cobra CB radio and a Lowrance GPS on board, both powered by the Optima Yellow Top battery that lurks under the hood. And those knowing the importance of keeping one's valuables under key will appreciate the lock boxes manufactured by Tuffy Security Accessories.
Of course, wheels and tires would be the focal point, as Falken Tire Corporation was responsible for the execution of this impressive build. That being said, they went with 18"X9.5" Raceline RT Monster, forged aluminum Beadlock wheels and chose Falken WildPeak A/T 37"X13.5"OR18" tires, not only to accentuate the vehicle, but tackle any course separating them from success.
With the project behind them, they were satisfied with the final result - a showy rig that was equally capable of performing. When asked why they chose a K&N intake system, Falken Tire Corporation, Off Road supervisor, Nestor Cabrera said, "Because it works. We first started using K&N products way back when Ken Johnson and Norm McDonald were making handle bars."
SEMA 2012 - The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic offroad machine that demands to get out on the trails
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When asked if the 2009 Jeep Rubicon had earned any recognition, Cabrera shared that photos had been taken for Recoil magazine and the custom 4X4 will be featured in Falken Tire commercials. In closing, off road supervisor said, "We will put a lot of miles on the JK, attending off road events all over the country." That in mind, keep an eye out for this 2009 Jeep Rubicon Unlimited at a town near you.
Other Jeeps at SEMA included AEV Conversions Jeep Wrangler JK, Rebeca Olavarrieta's 2011 Jeep Wrangler, the Project Rescue Rubicon 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, BDS Suspension Modified Jeep TJ and the award winning Jeep Wrangler JK Hemi with 4WD.
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