When you own a factory desert runner, adding aftermarket gear requires a careful balance. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave arrives with high-performance Fox 2.5 internal bypass shocks, hydraulic jounce bumpers, and a reinforced frame. Slap generic lift kits or heavy steel armor on it without thinking, and you ruin the high-speed ride quality that makes this trim special. Upgrading this truck means protecting its desert DNA while fixing factory compromises like bed utility and interior storage.
The most successful builds start by targeting weak points: vulnerable underbody components, insecure bed cargo, and sparse cab organization. Whether you use your truck for high-speed washboard trails or weekly hardware store runs, choosing gear tailored specifically to the Mojave platform prevents clearance issues and wasted cash.
Protecting the Desert Chassis
The Mojave comes armored from the factory with skid plates, but high-speed sand, gravel, and rock impacts still expose vulnerable spots. Upgrading your protection starts underneath without adding excessive dead weight that ruins the suspension tuning.
Heavy-Duty Rock Sliders and Steps
Factory steps on some trims act as cosmetic pieces, but the Mojave needs functional rock protection that doubles as a step for shorter passengers. Look for frame-mounted sliders that tuck tight against the body.
- Avoid pinch-weld mounted bars that bend into your rocker panels upon impact.
- Choose powder-coated steel with textured anti-slip surfaces for muddy or snowy boots.
- Ensure the slider design accommodates the unique frame reinforcements found on the Mojave chassis.
Differential Covers and Skid Upgrades
Factory diff covers are prone to scraping on jagged rocks if you air down for rough terrain. Heavy-duty nodular iron differential covers deflect impacts and protect your ring and pinion gears. Pair these with a reinforced transfer case skid plate to keep your drivetrain safe during high-speed whoops.
Optimizing Bed Utility and Cargo Management
The Gladiator bed gives you utility, but an open 5-foot box leaves gear exposed to weather and thieves. Managing that space effectively transforms your truck into an efficient camp or work rig.
Tonneau Covers and Racks
A low-profile hard folding tonneau cover keeps cargo secure while maintaining fuel efficiency on the highway. If you plan to mount a rooftop tent or carry long items like kayaks, choose a rail-integrated rack system that sits above the tonneau cover. This lets you keep your bed contents locked and dry while stacking gear vertically.
Bed Mats and Tailgate Protection
Factory plastic bed liners are slick, causing coolers and toolboxes to slide around on every turn. Drop in a heavy rubber bed mat to keep cargo anchored. Additionally, install a tailgate reinforcement bracket if you run heavy all-terrain spare tires or stand on the tailgate frequently.
Enhancing Cab Organization and Electronics
The interior of the 2020 model is comfortable, but small item storage remains limited. Cab upgrades solve daily annoyances without requiring permanent modifications to the dash or trim.
Secure Dash Mounts and Power Management
- Rigid Device Mounts: Replace flimsy suction-cup phone holders with bolt-in dash rails that secure your phone or GPS unit during violent washboard vibrations.
- Auxiliary Switch Panels: Clean up wiring for auxiliary lights or air compressors by installing a factory-style switch bank in the center console.
- Under-Seat Storage: Utilize lockable steel storage boxes under the rear bench seat to keep recovery gear, tow straps, and tools out of sight.
Maintaining the Ride Quality
The defining trait of the Mojave is its suspension. If you want more ground clearance for larger tires, resist the urge to install cheap spacer lifts. Spacer lifts upset factory shock geometry and ruin compression travel.
Instead, look at specialized suspension correction components or 1-inch to 1.5-inch leveling springs designed specifically for the Mojave. These maintain your factory Fox shock performance while giving you the clearance needed for true 35-inch tires without rubbing your inner fenders during articulation.
For official specifications on towing limits and gross vehicle weight ratings before adding heavy accessories, check the Jeep Official Site. To explore specialized off-road lighting layouts and mounting configurations, reference resources like Car and Driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install standard Jeep Gladiator Rubicon lift kits on a Mojave?
You should avoid standard Rubicon lifts. The Mojave has unique front suspension geometry, a slightly different ride height, and internal bypass shocks designed for high-speed desert running rather than low-speed rock crawling. Using standard kits can cause harsh bottoming out or damage your expensive Fox shocks.
What is the largest tire size I can fit on a stock Mojave?
You can comfortably fit 33-inch tires from the factory. With a proper 1-inch leveling kit or specific high-clearance inner fender liners, many owners successfully run 35-inch tires without major rubbing issues.
Do aftermarket steel bumpers affect the Mojave suspension?
Yes. Heavy front steel bumpers add significant weight over the front axle, which can compress the front suspension and reduce your high-speed desert damping performance. If you add a heavy bumper or winch, consider matching front coil springs rated for the extra weight.
