I’ve made several expeditions, all have been in NM, AZ, UT, and CO. Most of my expeditons have been between one - two weeks long. However; just to clarify, I haven’t made any trips in the KJ. Speaking from experience, here are some of the challenges that I think you could face. I have also listed random thoughts that came to me while thinking about the KJ.
Make sure your cooling system is up to par. Not in my own personal rig, but overheating is something I’ve seen on more than one occasion. Add extra transmission coolers, oil coolers, etc. as needed.
An oil by-pass system is overkill, but it does allow for better filtration while increasing your oil capacity. More oil could equate to more cooling potential.
Make sure the alternator is tested, battery is tested, and the serpentine belt is good.
If you have an automatic, then you might look into a temperature gauge for the transmission.
Change your PLUGS. It’s probably overkill, but I change mine every 25,000 miles.
Run a quick scan on the KJ just to make sure there aren’t any soft codes. This simple test may help you identify sub problems before they turn into big problems
I use top notch synthetic oil, gear lubes, and fluids for everything. (differentials, engine oil, transfer case, transmission, power steering, coolant, and brake fluid). It’s just a mental thing for me. I brainwash myself into believing that my vehicle is better protected when all fluids have been recently changed.
Make sure you have a good air filter that flows well but blocks out harmful particulates. I would suggest maybe adding the LTT true cold air intake. The LTT will still flow small amounts of cold air from the front grill even at low speeds. Most expeditons require low speed driving for great lengths of time.
I highly recommend installing backup lights on the KJ.
I highly recommend installing long range lights on the front of the KJ
I recommend aftermarket front and rear bumpers, but that is not a requirement. A front and rear bumper will increase approach angles and give you a place to put a winch and/or gas can carrier.
I’ve never had a locker but always wished I had one. So I’m adding front and rear lockers to my KJ. I know that lockers and winches are sometimes considered luxury items in the off-road business, but they are nice to have when nature demands it.
Onboard air is a must. Most would agree that a 5 lb - 10 lb CO2 bottle is plenty, but some may prefer a larger bottle (with appropriate regulator) to run power tools.
A sturdy roof rack (rails) and basket is a must if you plan to carry gear in that location. The factory roof rails are “vulnerable” to breakage when the KJ‘s unibody is under stress (such as flexing).
I would consider regearing if you’re going to run a 30.5” tire or taller. 4:10’s are available for the KJ and regearing will help bring you closer back to stock specifications.
Often neglected, but very important to change is the PCV valve. Some would say it’s overkill, but I change mine every 20,000 miles.
Most expeditions aren’t too technical. I’ve always had a basic 3” lift with 31” tires. Like mentioned before, make sure your suspension parts are in good working order. (Check for loose parts, warn parts, shocks, struts, CV’s, ball joints, etc)
Be sure that you carrying enough fuel. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to refill out on the trail, especially in the rural parts of America where gas stations are few, far, and in-between.
Make sure you have fairly new tires that are designed for your terrain, and in good condition.
Be prepared for weather. Downpours can stop travel pretty quickly. I’ve seen nice dirt roads turn into clay so quickly that wheel wells were stuffed in a matter of minutes.
I’ve never had a winch, but I sure could have used it on more than one occasion. I would feel much better with one. As a matter of fact, my KJ now has a winch.
I know skid plates seem to be a given, but I’m amazed by how many who don’t have them.
This might sound a little overboard, but make sure you have a good exhaust system. A good free flowing exhaust will help reduce engine temperatures, free up a little horsepower, and also keep your pipes a little cooler. I guess I’ve heard too many stories of grass fires that were ignited by hot exhaust parts.
And this can’t be stressed enough….but carry enough food and water.
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