Barricade Rock Sliders Installation (Long Arm Lift)

Barricade Rock Sliders Installation (Long Arm Lift)

January 8, 2016

Learn how to easily install Barricade Rock Sliders with modifications for long arm kits – a must for serious off-roaders!

Quick Look

Category
Mods, Off-Road, Maintenance
Brand
Barricade
Product
Rock Sliders
Use Case
Off-road protection and vehicle modification
Useful Links

Overview

The Barricade Rock Sliders installation is a prime example of a straightforward yet essential modification for Jeep enthusiasts who take their vehicles off the beaten path. Whether you’re crawling over boulders or navigating through tight trails, these rock sliders serve as a protective barrier for your Jeep's body and frame. This tutorial will guide you through the installation process, detailing necessary modifications and best practices to ensure you achieve a secure and functional fit.

What This Covers

In this article, we’ll explore:

  • The tools required for installation.
  • Step-by-step instructions for mounting the rock sliders.
  • Additional modifications needed for long-arm suspension kits.
  • Helpful tips to avoid common pitfalls during installation.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Installing the Barricade Rock Sliders can be completed in a few simple steps:

  1. Remove Body Mount Bolts: Start by safely lifting your Jeep and removing the body mount bolts. Be prepared; these bolts can be stubborn. Using a penetrating lubricant may help make this task easier. It’s important to take your time and avoid stripping the bolts.
  2. Install the Rock Sliders: Position the rock sliders under the vehicle and align them with the body mount points. Utilize a jack and a wooden block to support the sliders during the installation process. Be sure to check that nothing else obstructs the mount points.
  3. Secure Everything in Place: Reinsert the body mount bolts and ensure they are properly torqued. Note that there was some discrepancy in torque specifications — the recommended value for body mount bolts on a JK is often stated as 80 ft-lbs, but be sure to follow the provided instructions for your specific kit.

Modifications for Long Arm Kits

If your Jeep is equipped with a long-arm suspension, some modifications to the rock sliders will be necessary. The rear control arm bracket may conflict with the slider bracket, resulting in a fitment issue. In this case, you’ll need to:

  • Measure and mark the area on the slider bracket that needs to be modified.
  • Use a cutoff tool to trim the bracket while ensuring the cut is clean and provides sufficient space for movement when the suspension articulates.
  • Protect Against Rust: After any cutting, be sure to repaint exposed metal to guard against rust, as unprotected areas can lead to long-term deterioration.

Helpful Tips

Before you dive into the installation, here are a few tips to make the process smoother:

  • Have the Right Tools: Ensure you have a jack, socket set, cutting wheel, and thread locker on hand.
  • Check Fitment: Do a dry fit of the sliders before fully securing them to avoid any unnecessary rework.
  • Wear Protective Gear: Be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves, especially when using cutting tools.

Key Takeaways

The Barricade Rock Sliders are a solid addition to your Jeep, providing protection and utility for serious off-road adventures. The installation process is relatively simple but does require some attention to detail, particularly when modifications for long-arm kits come into play. Following these steps and tips should help you achieve a successful installation. Happy wheeling!