Scottie,

One thing you probably have noticed, jeep-guys don't typically get very excited about dana35 axles, lockers, any another short-comings of our Wranglers someone may want to point out . . . we've been complaining about this stuff for years. It just doesn't matter! Most stock Jeeps are upgraded for the trails we intend to do; part of the fun is building the Jeep! That's why most Jeep-guys are called gear-heads. Jeep Wranglers are made for offroad, and are not very good on the highway. Most people understand that point. Most mitsu owners never see a difficult trail, but are totally brand loyal. Most Jeep owners never see a difficult trail, but are brand loyal! It just doesn't matter. Most guys that frequently go offroad are interested in all 4x4's, and brand loyality isn't very important.

But, to continue the game . . . <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

Offroader wrote an interesting review of the "mitsibitsi":

Cons
- Aftermarket support is very limited.
- Current models are more soccer mom than I'd like to see due to limited tire size fitment w/out serious custom fab work.
- Nobody knows didly about the drivetrain and mitsu's not very forthcoming with details on who makes what (diff, axles, tranny, xcase, etc.)
- Lack of general knowledge about them pushes them deeper into the soccer mom category (actually I don't mind. Keeps virgin rigs available on ebay/auto-trader).
- Lack of trailworthness in the US allows us who do take them off road to discover their weaknesses.

Fixes needed before wheeling...
- Gen I rear trailer arm must be reinforced or breakage will ensue if you wheel it regularly.

Other issues...
- Valve guide seals need replacement every 60-100k (minor)
- Gen I rear Axle housings likely to break after/if training arms go. (minor if preventative actions taken w/ trailing arms)



FWIW, I do think that jeep have been a MAJOR influencer in bringing the 4x4 market to where it's at today and I do like the rubicon