JL/JT APEX Front Axle Truss - A NEW ERA HAS BEGUN WITH THE
ARRIVAL OF THE APEX TRUSS! Artec Industries is proud to announce the next
generation of PATENT PENDING axle trusses. This series of trusses not only
builds on our experience as the world leader in axle truss design, it brings it
to a whole new level of cost savings, strength, weight savings, simplicity of
installation, precision fitment, and complete axle protection never before seen
in the industry. The key feature that sets the APEX truss apart is its unique
peaked shape top which provides extra rigidity to the whole truss while
allowing both a reduction in weight (vs using a thicker material top) and
eliminating long weld seams. Previous version with long weld seams which can be
lead to extra weld warping of the axle, longer install times and can be inconsistent.
This peaked structure not only applies to the axle tube between the coil
perches but extends underneath the coil perches as well, forming a complete
truss from end to end of axle, an industry first in an OEM axle application.
The JL APEX Front Axle Truss is based off of a JK APEX Truss that was secretly
tested for over a year proving that even though the truss is lighter weight,
the peaked structure of the truss holds up to both extreme applications and
daily driving. The new JL APEX Front Axle Truss is the epitome of low cost,
easy and quick to weld, simple, strong, and complete solutions for making your
factory Jeep axle take more abuse than originally intended. You want easy
insurance for your axle? The JL APEX Truss provides it.
JL/JT Front LCA Skids - These heavy duty skids are designed
to take serious abuse and reinforce your JL front axle lower control arm
brackets. The 1/4" thick precision cut and formed components of this setup
mean they'll install easily and protect your brackets and lower control arms.
JL/JT Inner C Gussets - These heavy duty inner C gussets are
designed to take serious abuse and reinforce your front Dana 30 or 44 JL or JT
Inner C's. The 3/16" thick precision cut and formed components precisely
contour and wrap around your inner c and add rigidity.
(Optional) JL Shield - The NEW JEEP JL front axle now
includes a new Center Axle Disconnect (CAD or Front Axle Disconnect FAD) system
for improved fuel efficiency. This new inclusion on the axle features a very
thin sheetmetal skid plate from the factory which is prone to bending and
denting, not to mention being a rock magnet itself. Artec Industries is the
FIRST COMPANY TO ADDRESS THIS VULNERABLE PART. Our new JL SHIELD is constructed
from HEAVY DUTY 1/4" thick steel...twice the thickness of the OEM skid
plate. The new design also uses countersunk flat head bolts for improved
smoothness on the bottom...meaning you'll have less edges to catch on rocks. To
improve the smoothness, we've eliminated unnecessary edges and extended the leading
edge to the front of the axle and included an angled flange to protect the axle
and allow rocks to glide under. The JL SHIELD is fully welded and hard
powdercoated for direct bolt-on installation and a long life.
Features include:
- PATENT PENDING APEX truss peaked top design provides more
rigidity than a flat top truss design
- Truss is CNC Precision Laser cut in-house from 1/8"
mild steel for a lightweight yet strong solution...only 6 lbs
- Truss is CNC Precision Bent in-house for a great fitment.
Literally drop the truss in place on the axle and it's ready to weld. No puzzle
piece assembling*
- Designed used 3D models directly from Dana Corp and Jeep for
not only an amazing fit but clearances with surrounding components
- 70% less welding needed than previous truss designs means
less warping, faster turnaround, and lower costs
- All long seams are bent so you don't need to spend time
welding them together
- APEX design continues under the OEM coil buckets for
complete end-to-end axle reinforcement...an industry first
- Dimpled holes provide not only weight reduction but rigidity
and strength
- Contours both the cast steel differential and FAD (front
axle disconnect) and can be welded with normal MIG welder and moderate
pre-heating and post-heating
- Provides worry-free wheeling of up to 40 inch tires on stock
JL axles**
- Bridges the Front Axle Disconnect (FAD/CAD) which has shown
to be one of the weakest sections of the front axle
- Low Profile Design doesn't go over differential and allows
usage in vehicles with only slight lift***
- Front LCA Skids and Optional JL Shield made from 1/4"
steel
- Inner C Gussets made from 3/16" steel
NOTE: Jeep offers many different variations on which axle
housings and inner c's are offered on their vehicles. Please refer to the
following diagram for details on which version to choose. If you have one model
of a vehicle but have swapped in axles from another model, choose the model
that the axles were originally in.
NOTE: This kit requires general welding and fabrication
skills including welding to the cast center section and cast inner c's. Welding
should only be done by a competent welder. Artec Industries implies no
guarantees or warranties and is not liable for improper installation.
*Some grinding and fitment may be required when installing
this kit. Every axle varies slightly and some fabrication may be required.
** In rare and
extreme cases, the truss may come into contact with oil pan. Prior to operating
the vehicle, remove the coil springs, cycle the suspension including full
compression of both sides simultaneously and add bumpstop extensions to prevent
damage to oil pan.
