Since I bought my TJ in the summer of 1996 it has gone through many changes. And so have my goals and needs. When I first bought it, I thought I needed something to get further out for backpacking trips. A couple of quick trips to Hollister Hills taught me that venturing down forest roads may be more perilous than I thought.

So I bought a winch. And a small lift kit. And ordered a new rear axle with an ARB. And then a bigger lift. And bigger tires. And a new front axle. And then the first roll cage. And then an even bigger lift and bigger tires... You see where this is going.

Along the way I convinced myself that in order to take the Jeep anywhere I needed to be equipped for everywhere. My goal shifted: I wanted to build a Jeep that I could take to Baja and live comfortably for weeks. I added on-board air, a welder, and an on-board shower; lockers at both ends and low gears with big tires.

I tested it every weekend on the Rubicon, Fordyce, Dusy and other trails. At one point I thought I'd build it into a competition Jeep. But in reality? I've never used it to go to remote backpacking trailheads. I never took it to Baja. And I decided that the competition 4x4 world wasn't for me. I realized that what I enjoy most is the ability to take it to remote places and hang out with friends.

It's been my daily driver for over 10 years. And it serves as my work truck, ski rig and toy.

On occasion I'v thought about selling it, but I've put too much energy into making it work as well as it does. And through it (and the hobby/sport) I've met many many friends.

This site documents the journey.