It’s hard to know where to start with this rig. I spent an hour listening to the owner share his inspiring journey and the painstaking work that went into every aspect of this build. To fully appreciate this Jeep, it’s better to understand the final form as the culmination of a story rather than simply an amalgamation of premium parts. In other words, every single high-end component and accessory was intentional, carefully considered, and the result of extensive real-world overlanding. If this Wrangler looks familiar, that’s because it has appeared at various booths at Overland Expo and on several aftermarket websites. In fact, this was the Wrangler used to develop many of the products that Jeep owners know and love today. The owner Justin recognized the Wrangler’s shortfalls in the field and pitched solutions to companies to further optimize the platform for backcountry travel.
It’s a wonderful story, and I can almost guarantee that the first person to call Justin and discuss this vehicle will end up buying it (because heck, I nearly did from another continent). The foundation of this build is a 2018 Rubicon Recon (93,000 miles), which is the most rugged and backcountry-focused Wrangler you can buy from the factory. This desirable model takes the already impressive Rubicon and further uprates it with a beefier Dana 44 front axle with strengthened tubes, heavy-duty end forgings, and a cast cover. The 1/2-inch lift will accommodate 35-inch tires without any modifications. It was from this remarkable base that work began with a plethora of top-tier aftermarket parts and accessories (with a value of approximately $40,000, not including labor cost) from the likes of industry leaders AEV (American Expedition Vehicles). If you’re in the market to buy the ultimate Jeep Wrangler for weekend adventures or traveling the world, then look no further, this is it. I highly recommend checking out Justin’s Instagram, which documents the Wrangler’s story.
From the Seller:
“This vehicle is the culmination of owning and traveling in three Jeep Wranglers: a 2007, a 2013, and now this 2018. Along the way, I have moved parts off the previous models to enhance the new one. Over the years I have refined this Jeep to what you see now. I am one of the first 200 members of Expedition Portal and remember fond days of attending the Expedition Trophy. I remember when Scott Brady [Publisher and Chairman of Expedition Portal and the Overland Journal] said he was going to start a forum and when the Hansens said they wanted to launch Overland Expo.
The point is that I have an enormous passion for GEAR (hence the forum name) and have tried most products over the years. I have acquired a large following on Instagram (@pitcairnoverland), where over the years, I have helped others refine their own vehicles. I spent several months designing and building the Goose Gear Jeep JKU system for my own needs with the owner Brian Fulton. I have helped Force Protector Gear modify one of its existing products to better suit the needs of overlanders. This Jeep was designed for myself and my two sons. They would sleep up top in the Ursa Minor, and I would sleep below on the Goose Gear plate system. What I am trying to convey is that this is not simply a Jeep that has had parts thrown at it. This is a very capable weekend warrior vehicle for up to 3 adults. This is not a SEMA build, the parts on this Jeep were done for a reason. Whoever buys this Jeep will be getting a fully functional overland rig that I am proud of.”
2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon
The Jeep is fitted with a 3.6-liter V6 motor that produces 285 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 18 mpg. A dependable engine is matched with legendary capability thanks to a body-on-frame design, 4WD, high and low range, front and rear lockers, skid plates, snorkel, front sway bar disconnect, winch, and intelligent onboard systems such as Hill Descent Control. It’s worth noting that the “Recon” model takes all-terrain performance even further thanks to a stronger front axle, cast differential covers, a half-inch lift (since increased), and more. Inside, these rugged credentials are balanced with a well-equipped interior with driver comforts that include:
- Power steering, windows, locks, and mirrors
- Air conditioning
- Cruise control
- Heated leather seats
- Center console with cupholders
- Front camera and Total Vision backup camera
- Terra Acoustics front speaker upgrade
- 67 Designs JK mount and universal aluminum squeeze phone holder
- Steering wheel controls
- Carolina Metal Masher JK Grab Handle and RAM mount
- Yaesu FT8800 Ham Radio with remote mount and auxiliary speaker
Distinguishing Features
Below is a selection of notable features. Please see the original listing and speak to Justin for a full overview of the build:
- AEV Salta wheels with BFG A/T tires
- Ursa Minor J30 Camper with optional glass windows, power sockets (4), custom MAC tie-down rail system, and more
- AEV 3.5-inch Dual Sport Suspension kit with Old Man Emu BP-51 remote reservoir shocks
- Warn 9.5 TI winch with synthetic line and Factory 55 Fairlead
- AEV Tire Carrier
- Baja Designs lighting
- Genesis Offroad Dual Battery Kit and Merlin solar panel
- AEV bumpers and skid plate
- Dynatrac Big Brake Kit
- ARB compressor
- AEV snorkel
- Full Goose Gear build-out (see the original listing for specifics)
- Engel 45 refrigerator and Partner Steel Single Burner stove
- AEV Fuel Caddy
- Outback Adventure table
This 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon with an Ursa Minor Camper is listed for $55,000 OBO and is currently located in San Diego, California. The full vehicle specifications are available via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
Contact Information:
Email: justinpitcairn@gmail.com
Tel: 760-402-2251
Instagram: @pitcairnoverland
