Description
The RH4x4 Jeep bolt-in Sport Cage is the cornerstone of Rock Hard 4x4 products. Developed first for the Jeep Wrangler TJ and proven after years and years of trail use and abuse - the RH4x4 bolt-in Sports Cage has become one of the most popular safety upgrades in the Jeep aftermarket industry.
Please Note: Test fitting is required prior to powder coating / paint. While we make every effort to insure the highest quality parts arrive for install, Rock Hard 4x4 cannot be held liable for any coating expenses on cage components.
The Why - Factory Design Complications
The Wrangler JL almost didn't come to market with solid axles. Weight was a major factor in determining if the Wrangler would sacrifice off road capability for fuel mileage standards. In the end, and what we have today, is a Wrangler attempting to both satisfy regulations and maintain its heritage. To save weight, and save solid axles, the JL engineers installed a very light weight, very thin wall (14 gauge), very body-integrated cage system.
To strengthen this lighter cage, the engineers produced an extremely hardened, odd shaped tubular design. In developing our Cage Brace System, we broke virtually every drill bit in our building. The tubing is unlike any material Jeep has ever used, certainly in the occupant safety realm. The shape requires a new way to install a Cage Brace System, and a back to the drawing board approach for us. After a fully year of research and development, we're proud to release our innovative design.
Installation
We promised we'd innovate a no-weld design, and we've done it. Our Cage Brace System strengthens the weak/vulnerable points in the OEM JL cage plus adds functionality. Our System does require some special tools, but does not require welding.
Drilling - The new factory cage material, while only 14 gauge, is hardened. It takes a very slow (300 RPM ideal, 500 RPM max) drill process and a special hardened cobalt drill bit to penetrate. Your big box store drill bits will not work. The die grinder tree will help you remove burs and finish out the holes. You aren't required to purchase, but may very well need, an additional Drill Bit Pack.
The Design
The RH4x4 JL C-Pillar Cage Brace System strengthens the JL rear cage in critical areas.
FAQ:
Why bolt-in?
There is nothing wrong with a race ready, NHRA/JeepSpeed/NASCAR/WRC/F1 approved, sonic tested, x-ray verified, high velocity impact tested, fully welded cage custom designed for your individual race vehicle. Except of course, the unaffordable price, massive vehicle disassembly, user unfriendly nature, and it goes without saying - non DIY install requirements. Those are just a few of the reasons we prefer our bolt-in method. Our RH4x4 bolt-in ready cage eliminates the headaches of a fully welded in cage for the wheeler from all walks of life yet provides an unbelievably strong, proven cage design.
Why not replace the entire vehicle cage?
The answer is simple: crumple zones. The section of OEM cage that runs along the top of your doors from front to back has factory designed and DOT approved crumple zones that are designed to absorb impact during a roll over or collision. Without theses absorption sections your cage would "sheer" and not provide any protection. If we were to replace those with solid steel tubes, removing any absorption during roll over, your safety would be compromised. By retaining those crumple zones we can maximize their attributes and provide a more secure and safe system.
Is any welding required?
No.
What finish is available?
Our cage systems ship in a raw, bare metal finish. This prevents potential shipping damage but more importantly allows you the freedom to select your own color locally. Continue a color theme into your cabin for a more unique, your Jeep look!
Where is this made?
This product, like all RH4x4 parts, was designed, developed, tested, manufactured, and if applicable, powder coated, and shipped in the USA. And we don't mean the 75% legal standard to be able to say Made in USA. We are 100% Made in the United States of America!
All products sold by Rock Hard 4x4 are sold for off road use only. Any other use or application is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or user.
- No Welding Required
- Fits Factory Soft/Hard Top
- 100% Made in USA
- Lifetime Warranty