Venture4WD's Chris Schontz is constantly traversing North America's diverse terrains in his customized Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon. His passion for vehicle-supported adventures, exploring stunning backcountry destinations, and nomadic lifestyle is captured in his weekly YouTube videos.
His journey is facilitated by his trusty 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, a powerhouse right from the factory. Its larger wheelbase accommodates extra storage, perfect for his equipment. The most noteworthy modification is the Ursa Minor J30 Camper, a replacement hard top that adds versatility to his off-road explorations.
Chris Schontz has equipped his Venture4WD Jeep with a Sunflare 105W Flexible Solar Panel, attached to the Ursa Minor J30's exterior. A Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/15 Charge Controller manages the power. He has detailed the benefits of this solar panel in a dedicated video.
The Jeep also boasts a Genesis Dual Battery Kit with two Optima Yellow Tops, complete with a Main and Auxiliary battery. In a thorough explanation, Shane from Genesis Off-Road discusses this kit and dual battery system in a video. Additionally, a Blue Sea ST Blade 12 Fuse Block is installed.
For added protection, a Kargo Master Safari Windshield Hoop is featured around the windshield, along with integrated handles for easy accessibility. The Safari Hinge Steps facilitate easy access to the roof-rack.
In the realm of suspension, Chris' Jeep is equipped with an AEV 3.5" Suspension System, using Bilstein 5100's. Accommodating the weight of the Ursa Minor J30 and cargo, Old Man Emu Front Trim Packers and Teraflex 1" Rear Coil Spacers have been installed. Furthermore, a Teraflex 9550 Steering Stabilizer and a JKS Adjustable Track Bar ensure stability.
For optimal traction, 315/70R17C BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2's have been fitted. These require Teraflex 1.25" Wheel Spacers for adequate clearance. Accompanying this, a Teraflex HD Hinge Spare Tire Carrier and GP-Factor HD Hinge Accessory Mount are installed.
Chris has considered fuel economy with the addition of a Long Range America Auxiliary Gas Tank, alleviating fuel concerns during remote travels. He shares insights about the tank in a video.
To enhance safety during solitary travel, a Come-Up Winch Seal Gen2 9.5si has been mounted on a WARN Winch Mounting Plate.
Camping amenities include an ARB 2200 Awning with a deluxe room, enhancing protection against the elements. Night travel is secured with Truck-Lite LED Headlights and Baja Designs Squadron Pro Fog Lights, replacing the default Wrangler JK headlights.
Inside, the Vector Off-Road JKE-Dock aids in navigation, supporting Chris's iPad and Garmin inReach Explorer GPS. To manage storage, Goose Gear Platform Kit and 3/4 Seat Delete are used, along with Blue Ridge Overland Gear's storage bags and XG Cargo Gama Storage Bags.
Preservation of food and beverages is ensured with an ARB MT35 12V Freezer/Fridge, mounted with the Engel Transit Slide-Lock. Meals are prepared on an EZOverland Tailgate Table, while Husky Liner Classic Style Floor Mats keep the interior clean.
Though Venture4WD focuses less on the vehicle and more on the journey, the gear is integral to the experience. Venture4WD and Chris Schontz have shared a comprehensive list of vehicle modifications and products used for Chris's adventures.
BUILD SHEET
SUSPENSION
- AEV 3.5" DualSport SC Suspension Kit
- Old Man Emu Trim Packers (Front)
- TeraFlex 1" Coil Spring Spacers (Rear)
- Teraflex 9550 Steering Stabilizer
- JKS Rear Adjustable Trackbar
WHEELS AND TIRES
- OE Rubicon 17" Wheels
- Teraflex 1.25" Wheel Spacers
- 315/70R17C BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2
- Teraflex HD Hinge Spare Tire Carrier
LIGHTING
- Truck-Lite LED Headlights
- Baja Designs Squadron Pro Fog Lights
ELECTRICAL
- Sunflare 105W Flexible Solar Panel
- Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/15 Charge Controller
- Genesis Dual Battery Kit
- x2 Optima Yellow Top
- Blue Sea ST Blade 12 Fuse Block
NAVIGATION
- Vector Off-Road JKE-Dock
- 67 Designs Phone/GPS Mount
- Garmin inReach Explorer GPS
- iPad Mini 4 with GaiaGPS
FUEL
- Long Range America Auxiliary Fuel Tank
RECOVERY GEAR
- COMEUP SEAL Gen2 9.5si Winch
- WARN Winch Mounting Plate
- Bubba Rope Recovery Gear
- 4x Maxtrax Safety Orange Recovery Board
- GP Factor HD Hinge Accessory Mount
- GP Factor Trax Latch Kit
CARGO MANAGEMENT
- Goose Gear Platform Kit with 3/4 Seat Delete
- Blue Ridge Overland Gear Storage Bags
- XG Cargo Gama Storage Bags
CAMP AND KITCHEN
- Ursa Minor J30 Camper
- ARB MT35 12V Fridge/Freezer (Discontinued)
- Engle Transit Slide-Lock
- ARB 2200 Awning (Discontinued)
- ARB 2200 Deluxe Awning Room (Discontinued)
- Coleman 2 Burner Stove
- EZOverland Tailgate Table
- Wal-Mart Camp Chair
- Mountain Summit Gear HD Roll-Top Table
OTHER
- ARB CKMTA12 Twin Air Compressor
- Kargo Master Safari Windshield Hoop
- Kargo Master Safari Hinge Steps
- HuskyLiners Classic Style Floor Mats
- Bihlerflex Perfect Bungee (assorted)
- Cleanwaste Portable Toilet