Rear Suspension, Wheels, and Tires

Last month, we tackled the front suspension on our 2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon with a full Skyjacker setup. This time, we’re heading to the rear to wrap things up and bolt on some new wheels and rubber. If you’ve worked on Jeeps before, you know the back half is just as important when it comes to getting things level, stable, and ready for real-world action. The dual-rate coil springs and Black MAX shocks from Skyjacker are built to handle everything from backroads to towing on the street, and they delivered just what we were hoping for—control without killing the ride quality.

With the suspension handled, we turned our attention to wheels and tires. We picked a set of 17×9 Dirty Life Canyon Race Beadlocks. True beadlocks—not just for looks. These wheels are made for drivers who actually use their rides, not just park them at shows. We wrapped them in 35×11.50×17 Toyo Open Country R/Ts. These tires strike a great balance as they offer a solid grip off-road, are stable on the highway, and don’t drone on the street like a mud tire.

Once everything was bolted up, we took the Jeep out for a shakedown run. The difference was immediate. The rear end tracked better, the ride was smoother, and the whole truck felt more connected. It’s the kind of upgrade that makes you want to drive more, not just stand around and stare at it.

Next up, we’ll be adding some exterior upgrades, lighting, and other finishing touches. But for now, the Gladiator sits right, rolls clean, and feels way more capable—just the way we like it.

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SOURCES

Skyjacker Suspensions
318-388-0816
https://skyjacker.com

Dirty Life Wheels
800-526-7638
https://www.thewheelgroup.com

Toyo Tires
800-442-8696
https://www.toyotires.com

If you’ve worked on Jeeps before, you know the back half is just as important when it comes to getting things level, stable, and ready for real-world action.

…the Gladiator sits right, rolls clean, and feels way more capableÑjust the way we like it.