Ask a Jeep fan about unibody vs body-on-frame (BOF) construction and you’re setting yourself up for a long chat. In general, most serious off-roaders swear by body-on-frame because it‘s considered to be the superior option when the going gets really tough.
But to really understand what makes it the preferred choice we need to get a bit technical. So, in this blog we compare both options and discuss their pros and cons.
What Is Body On Frame?
Body-on-frame, also called ladder frame construction, is a building method where the vehicle body is mounted on a separate frame. This frame is what the engine, suspension and transmission are bolted to.
Pros
- Modular design
- Strong and durable
- Great off-road performance
- More secure winch and bumper mounting
Cons
- Heavy
- On-road performance
Having the ability to separate the vehicle body from the frame allows for easier modifications and repairs. This means that fitting bigger tires and suspension lifts are much easier with a body-on-frame design. When it comes to traversing rugged terrain, body-on-frame designs allow for better wheel articulation, helping keep the wheels in contact with the ground even at extreme angles.
If the frame gets damaged or bent, you can replace it with a new one. Not something you can do with a unibody vehicle. The fact that it weighs more than a unibody design can be a benefit when it comes to towing and winching. And the added strength of the frame also allows for a higher payload.
Perhaps the biggest benefit is that a frame provides very strong places to mount bumpers and winches.
What Is Unibody?
Unibody or monocoque construction is a more modern way of building a vehicle. The entire structure is a single unit, so the chassis and body are connected.
Pros
- Lighter weight
- Improved crash protection
- Smoother ride
Cons
- Lower towing capacity
- Expensive to repair
- Not as capable off-road
Unibody construction is the preferred option for vehicles that aren’t designed primarily for off-road use. It’s lighter and offers a smoother ride than an equivalent body-on-frame vehicle. It also provides better occupant protection in the event of an accident.
But it isn’t quite as capable when it comes to towing, and body repairs can be expensive. Body and chassis mods aren’t as easy to do, either. So, you have limited options when it comes to larger wheels. And you won’t find body lift kits for unibody vehicles.
That is why all Jeep Wranglers have body-on-frame construction. Jeep also makes vehicles that don’t, such as the Cherokee and Liberty. They have a unibody construction, but being Jeeps, they are still designed to be able to tackle tough terrain.
TDK Jeep Frames
Whether you are looking to replace a cracked or broken frame or want to build a next-level Jeep off-roader, Throttle Down Kustoms has a selection of rugged frames for you. They are built to be sturdier and more reliable than OEM frames with thicker metal. Check out some of our most popular Jeep frames:
- 1976-1983 CJ5 Jeep Frame
- 1976-1986 CJ7 Jeep Frame
- 1997-2006 TJ Wrangler Jeep Frame
- 2004-2006 LJ Wrangler Jeep Frame
Throttle Down Kustoms Has The Perfect Frame For Your Jeep
Throttle Down Kustoms has been making quality bumpers since 2004. Certified professionals hand-weld each bumper, frame, skid plate, or accessory. Looking to repair or upgrade your Jeep? We build a wide range of Jeep frames that surpass OE standards.
They are designed and built right here in the USA with the highest-quality materials. We also do custom fabrication and offer a lifetime warranty on our products. Contact us here for more information on our high-quality Jeep frames.