The X-Files

Ian begins assembly of a custom LJ chassis and builds a full Jeep out of a pile of metal tubs. Then he adds front and rear axles with cut-to-length control arms, and finishes off the build with coil-over suspension.

The custom Jeep JL gets a drivetrain after Ian finds a junkyard LS engine to install. He also fabricates his own exhaust.

The chassis on the Jeep JL are powder coated before Ian bolts everything in place and fabricates the body panels.

Larger tires on an off-road rig usually mean broken axles. A 1989 Dodge Ram Charger is in the shop, and Ian shows how to swap out a semi-float axle for the more desirable full-float axle.

The buggy is nearly finished. It’s back from paint and all that remains is wiring, plumbing, body panel installation and the interior. When Ian’s done, he's ready to hit the trails in a custom Jeep LJ.

A Polaris XP 900 is in the garage and it needs some TLC. Ian's not going to fix it, because he wants to turn it into a completely different rig. He decides to stretch the side by side and add longer suspension for more travel. And that's just the beginning.

With the drivetrain and suspension done, it's now time to focus on what the Polaris will need to stay safe on the trails. Ian customizes a roll cage, installs the driver's seat and adds some tunes.

An '80s Ramcharger is back in the shop for an engine swap. The owner wants a gas-powered Hemi, so Ian swaps the old, tired engine for one from a local junkyard.

Ian moves weight around on a Samurai to get more squat in the rear end. He shifts the radiator and fuel cell and changes the rear end suspension geometry to help this rig better handle the rocks.

Ian goes on an adventure with some of his buddies. They hit a few off-road parks nearby, make some roadside repairs, and end the trip with some Tennessee whiskey.