During "off-roading 101", as I like to call it, I was able to experience the capabilities of the Rubicon in a not-so-urban environment. I had a chance to try out the Tru-Lok front and rear Dana 44 locking axles when stuck in a rut behind some impertinent rocks. Overcoming the barrier was effortless, almost anticlimactic. While crawling down the vertical topography, I barely touched the brakes. I was told to let the Jeep "run on compression," and let it run I did. I know the brakes were rejoicing when the statement was made, otherwise they would have needed to work overtime. Little braking was needed during the steep and rocky descent. I was baffled.
During the brief lesson I went up and down hilly terrain, traveled over a myriad of obstacles, and overall, built up a new respect for the powerhouse machine at my command. I would not have been able to comprehend just what the Rubicon was able to do if it wasn't for the help of an experienced professional, Willie. But even with the lesson and the TJ's modifications, I wouldn't trust myself alone in the bushes just yet. It's a whole new ballgame when you leave the streets and set off into the wilderness, especially when not well acquainted or experienced with 4x4ing.