Sam Krahn 
American Expedition Vehicles knows a thing or two about making a great suspension kit for your off-road vehicle, and they’ve just introduced the newest product in their signature DualSport lineup. The AEV 2.5 inch DualSport RT Suspension kit is specifically made for the JL Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel, with different tuning than the diesel model than their gas offering. This kit is designed to deliver improved off-road performance, better ride comfort and handling on any surface, and increased load carrying capacity.
The kit pairs AEV’s frequency-tuned, triple-rate coil springs with 46mm Bilstein 5100 series shocks. The progressive springs provide 2.5 inches of additional ground clearance front and rear, and allow for increased load carrying without a drop in performance. The Bilstein dampers are tuned by AEV for a responsive and sporty ride and handling. But ride quality is overall improved thanks to greater wheel travel, which also helps bottom out control and off-road speed potential.
In addition, the AEV DualSport RT diesel Jeep Wrangler kit includes stamped control arm geometry correction brackets that further improve ride quality, and reduce nose dive while braking. There is also a new rear track bar tower extension to correct the rear roll center, providing better turn in response. Finally, new front and rear sway bar end links compensate for the added ride height, and new bump stop spacers improve bumper and axle contact under full articulation and jounce.
Dependent on the Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel trim level, AEV recommends different maximum tire sizes. Sport and Sahara models shouldn’t go above a 35 inch tire (35×12.50R17), while Rubicon models can bump that up to a 37 inch tire (37×12.50R17).
AEV also throws in a pedometer calibrator and jack stand, meaning you get a lot of equipment for the $1,479 asking price. Plus, AEV’s reputation for performance and quality is coupled with a full lifetime warranty. For diesel Jeep Wrangler owners looking for a suspension system with better off-road capability, load capacity, ride and handling, the AEV DualSport RT could be what they’re looking for. If not, there’s a JPP Mopar kit as well.
