End of the Gladiator?
Don’t miss Thursday’s Flagship II episode of the Jeep Talk Show with Natalie and Tony! Is the Gladiator dead? We discuss what Jeep offers versus what enthusiasts really want. Plus, CMM products in our must-have gear spotlight and a deep dive into whether JeeTops leak. Subscribe now and join the conversation!
Jeep is resorting to ever-more-desperate measures in its quest to keep Gladiator sales out of complete free-fall. The midsize pickup hit its sales peak during the height of the pandemic and has been in steep decline ever since, with both inventories and incentives swelling in 2024. Now, according to Automotive News, Jeep has decided to cut production, seemingly leaving the possibility of a second-generation model in limbo.
Starting in January, Stellantis will cut a shift from its Toledo South Assembly Plant, resulting in layoffs of more than 1,000 workers. The local UAW president told AN that adding the hybrid 4xe to the lineup would likely be a boon for interest and sales, but the electrified model has not yet entered production. Union members told The Detroit News that the mounting layoffs have begun to impact morale.
Lights before Lockers
You may hear words that you don’t understand. Lockers for example. We had lockers in school but with Jeeps, mostly it’s different.
Jeep wheels
Some are big, some are small. You may be confused as to why. It’s all about the ratio of the wheel to the tire that has the largest effect.
Correcting the speedometer! Adding larger tires, what you learn is your speedometer doesn’t match your Google Maps speed!
Jeep Talk Show Gladiator Update
I recently updated a video of reactions to people looking at Jeetops. If you don’t remember, Jeetops are modified freedom tops with a clear insert. It lets you see outside but still keeps your cab sealed to the elements.
We posted the updated video on social media and someone asked, does it leak?
This is a valid concern. If you’ve had a leaking JK, freedom tops from the factory, you know how irritating this is.
Chris, from JeeTops, goes over this in one of the interviews we’ve done.
You might wonder why we talk about Jeetops so often, well it’s my fault. I wasn’t keen on the product at the beginning, but after talking to Chris and seeing the product firsthand, loaners to take on the trip to EJS 2024, I’m a believer. My wife really likes them as well.
Chris provided me with a set of my very own Jeetops, but frankly, I wouldn’t have let them cut up my very expensive factory freedom tops if I didn’t believe in the product.
Leaks? No none, but I think if you look into the JK top leaks it has to do with the seal, or not taking care of the seals on the freedom tops. We recently went through a hurricane and NO LEAKS!
Must-Have Stuff for Your Jeep!
Carolina Metal Masters….better known as CMM
-Engineered solutions designed and manufactured without compromise. Versatile, Efficient & Functional. Easy installation and finishes that are as fine as our designs.
-pillar side mirrors
-grab handles
-phone mounts
-front end complaints
-Mirrors and handle bundle for JK/JKU $297.29
https://highliftoffroad.com/collections/cmm-offroad/products/jk-jku-handles-mirrors-bundle