Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler JK engine mounts

Hi all

Albertc80

New Member
Joined
Apr 7, 2026
Messages
4
Location
Los Angeles
Hello,

I just picked up my new to me JK a couple of weeks back. 2012 Sport 2dr. 6 speed manual w 106k miles. I purchased it from a Toyota dealership here in Southern California. The jeep comes with what I csn only guess is a 3- 3.5 inch lift, and some 35s. Pretty happy with it overall, in my 300 miles of driving it, but I thought I'd point out a few things and get your guy's feedback. Initially the dealership had pinned these Nitto TG2s with 37psi, and boy it was bouncing all over the place. After I got it home, I went down to 25psi much better, then finally settled on 27.5psi. I was able to get the dealership to knock down 300 because the parking brake wasn't working, it would click off when you engaged it at the highest point. I took care of that issue myself yesterday, after watching a YouTube video. The winch was also not working, but I cleaned the connector pins and voila, all better.

It came to me with a Rough Country lift, and N2.0 shocks which are a lil leaky (according to dealer report, and my visual inspection) but csr does not rebound/pogo on bumps. Wondering what you guys would recommend for a softer plush ride... I've heard good things about the Bilsteins 5100, but my understanding is that it's on the firmer side. I'll be wheeling this thing maybe 5-10% of it's life, so I don't need anything crazy. Here are some photos, let me know what you guys recommend... upgrades I'd like are: smoother susp. BFG ATs, rear bumper w swing out tire carrier, and exhaust.

Also, anyone know a good shop or mechanic that knows jeeps here in L.A? I can do basic stuff myself, but for bigger things, Id appreciate a recommendation. I was able to get the jeep for 9600 + tax btw. Here are some pics.

Thx all!
 
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Bright Silver Jeeps unit!! (though mine is a 4 door)

The 5100's are great for on-road driving and moderate trails. They have faster valving than others, favoring a more planted on-road driving experience at the expense of softness off-road. That said, they are still quite good for off-roading.

One thing you might want to check on is your pitman arm. I can't tell from these photos, but it looks like your drag link is mounted in the OEM locations. However, you're running a "dropped" Rough Country arm. This will put the draglink and track bar at different operating angles, and thus, different arcs during travel, causing bump steer and potential bind.
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler JK engine mounts