Video Interview: Avid Four-Wheeler Overcame Multiple Spinal Surgeries!
October 2020 Update: Jake Munoz, courageous friend, husband and father, passed away on October 2nd. At the time of our interview years ago, Jake had endured seven major spinal surgeries yet remained committed to an outdoor lifestyle. As an avid four-wheeler, Jake Munoz dramatically modified both his family life and approach to four-wheeling. A devoted father and husband, he set an example for his kids, other family members and the four-wheeling community…In this interview, Jake explains his adaptation to major back and cervical surgery challenges. He reached out to encourage others going through similar medical procedures and recoveries.
Jake Munoz shares the family history around this 1951 CJ3A flat-fender Jeep 4×4 and all of the modifications he has made. Many of the modifications have accommodated Jake’s spinal surgeries and help offset the risk of re-injuring his spine. His family’s safety a priority, Jake has built his 4×4 for hard trail use.
Jake’s heavily modified flat-fender Jeep 4×4 is equipped for challenges like the Rubicon Trail. Through seven major spinal surgeries, Jake Munoz has maintained his passion for family recreational four-wheeling. In this HD video, Jake takes us on a tour of of his flat-fender Jeep 4×4!
Jake climbs into the cab, an effort for anyone with the radical lift kit and oversized tires! Once in the cab and racing bucket seats, occupants strap on four-point harnesses. An effective way to protect occupants from lateral jarring, these seat belts are part of the safety equipment on this Jeep.
This roll cage will handle the most severe trail challenges and threats. Tubes run in several directions and have been tested with calculated roll-overs on the worst trails. This rig has seen the Rubicon Trail and many other notorious outlets. Powered by a Chevy V-8, necessary for toting all of this mass around! Coil-over shock/springs have made the ride quality managable. This suspension helps Jake continue to four-wheel despite his seven spinal surgeries. Jake is proactive about making the best of his back and neck issues. He does everything his medical team will approval, keeping active, strong and healthy!
Mose Ludel’s Note: I rode with Jake when filming the inaugural 2014 Wheelers for the Wounded Super Rubicon Event for Nevada drivers. His family meant everything, and he lived and breathed outdoor activity and four-wheeling. Travel with Jake Munoz and see his passion for Vets and ‘wheeling on the trail:
