[tiger3]

I have ordered the Metalcloak Overline system for 2 dr JK. I recieved the rockers and the rocker exoskin, but because of the size and weight, the fenders were shipped by slow boat to me. I am anxious to install the parts I have, but I am concerned about the alignment with the rear exoskin and the rocker exoskin if I install it first while waiting for the other parts. I have searched for more detailed instrutions and pictures but have not found any on the alignment of the rocker exoskin. The rocker exoskin does not use any existing holes so I am worried if I install it now it will not line up correctly with the rear exoskin if I am off any.

Anyone have pictures of the rocker exoskin or experience with this install. Thanks!!!

 

[Zenman323]

Interesting timing as a buddy of mine and I are installing it on his Jeep now and will hopefully finish tomorrow. The rocker exoskin doesn't really have much room for play since it conforms around the door so I don't see how you could go wrong, but there is a ton of drilling so if you are at all concerned there is never a problem with waiting.

I'll get some pics tomorrow.

 

[jagerhelix]

Comes with a thin metal template right? Mine did, and it made alignment a non issue.

 

[tiger3]

Comes with a thin metal template right? Mine did, and it made alignment a non issue.

The rear does, but the one for the rocker as far as I know does not.

 

[tiger3]

I managed to install the rockers, but not the exoskin. My drill is too small for the large bit, so I will have to get a better drill. I used the 2 stock bolts on the underside and for the 3rd one you need to drill it for the rivet nut. I discovered that my drill will not hold the bit because it is too small.

 

[Zenman323]

You will need to remove the rocker to install the exoskin underneath. Take great care when aligning the holes for the rocker exoskin as we spen a lot of time having to deal with misaligned holes and enlarging the holes in the actual plate.

Clamp it down really well and use a centering punch or the riv-nuts will not line up.

Also ensure that you follow the instructions and step up in the bits or you will tear the sheet metal up.

The rear exoskin is MUCH easier to line up due to the template.

Take your time; it's an awesome kit, but it's quite an install.

 

[tiger3]

You will need to remove the rocker to install the exoskin underneath. ....

:thumb: That was in the plan, since I could not install it, at least those holes are done now. I asked Metalcloak on the phone about the install and they recommended installing the rear exoskin first so that there is no question about alignment on everything else.

So for now I have rockers on (temp install) and inner fenders done except for the fender insert which I could not figure out which hole to use/drill. Once the front fender is on I can drill the hole for that.

Fenders still in the mail..... Come on post office where are my fenders!

Zenman, where are those pics...? at least I could be looking at some jeep porn while I wait. :drool:

 

[Zenman323]

:thumb: That was in the plan, since I could not install it, at least those holes are done now. I asked Metalcloak on the phone about the install and they recommended installing the rear exoskin first so that there is no question about alignment on everything else.

So for now I have rockers on (temp install) and inner fenders done except for the fender insert which I could not figure out which hole to use/drill. Once the front fender is on I can drill the hole for that.

Fenders still in the mail..... Come on post office where are my fenders!

Zenman, where are those pics...? at least I could be looking at some jeep porn while I wait. :drool:

Ha! I totally understand.

Here are some pics; we are not done yet and these are not the best pics since it was dark, but here you go:

 

[tiger3]

Thanks!!!! That looks awesome! Nice job! :awesome:

 

[tiger3]

Post office finally delivered! :dance: Now the work begins...

 

[JKGoob]

:thumb:Nice! I installed the 2 door Overline system a couple weeks ago. You'll be glad you waited for the rears as alignment would have been a problem otherwise. Zenman's experience with the rocker exo-skin matches mine. It gave me the most trouble due to the contours of the tub and difficulty getting it all clamped down tight to the body. The front and rear fenders were a piece of cake in comparison. Besides alignment there were several places that required the drilling of an outer and inner layer of sheet metal with a void in between... this makes it even more difficult to drill without binding the bit and tearing the sheet metal (quality step bits were well worth the $$$)
It's all well worth it once it's done! Don't forget to post up some photos :beerdrinking:

 

[tiger3]

Thanks for the great advise! I will post pics for sure.

 

[tiger3]

One weekend and this is as far as I can get. That rocker exoskin was a real pain. Funny how all holes line up when marked, but after drilling and nut zerks installed, some holes were off. I ended up making the holes on the exoskin sligntly larger so it all fits. I did not have that problem with the rear exskin because of the template it came with. Front flares will have to wait until next weekend.

I still don't get how my wife looks at it and asks me, "What changed?" Seriously...

 

[JKGoob]

Looks great! Sounds as though you had the same difficulty with the rocker exo-skin as I did, same solution too! I found the fronts were the easiest, and didn't use a single nut-sert! Just good old fashion nuts and bolts. You're almost there!

 

[Zenman323]

Yep looks awesome! It's a time consuming beast, but just looks dead sexy and is incredibly solid. We are one Rocker away (and inner flare trimming) from finishing friends build, but he is out of town till next weekend.

If I order the same kit we have learned a ton of valuable lessons so should be able to get it done in about half the time.

We considered starting a professional Zerk nut installation company .

Nice Job on that install man!

 

[Noahzark]

I know that the side steps can come off, the way that most have pictured and then one that it looks like a step? Anyone got a picture of that? Apparently, their website says it is super easy to do and wondered if any did that? Here is a picture of what I am talking about. I guess it would be the high-clearance position?

 

[JKGoob]

Those are actually different than the rockers in the Overline kit... The Overline rockers do not have a reversable/removable step, they are more of a deflection rocker than a step... I think those are part of their OverLAND series.

 

[tiger3]

Metalcloaked! I finally got it all finished this weekend.

 

[ElectricJay]

Congratulations! Looks great. Job well done.

 

[rsed780]

Looks real nice. Now I just need to save up the money to buy my set.