ExpeditionWest,
I have several questions you may be able to answer:
1.) In your opinion, what is the limiting factor in the Patriot. In other words, what is the first thing to fail on the trails? Lack of torque, lack of ground clearance, traction, etc?
Gearing. Either adding a helical LSD in the rear or deeper CVT gearing (or both) would be the next step for the platform. Anything else and it would create a cascading series of compromises, like reduced economy, poor handling, etc.
Even though it is best in class, it is still a 4cyl powered cross-over SUV. For what it is, I am very impressed with the overall balance of trail performance, economy and handling.
2.) Is it possible to add a lift to this vehicle, even though it has already been lifted 1"? If so, how much do you think this would have increased its performance? If it had a 2.5 - 3" lift would it have made it through the snow covered course that required a winch?
-- It has struts on all corners. Adding new (longer) springs would be easy to do, but remember the limits of IFS. As you gain height, you are only increasing compression travel at the cost of extension travel. Fortunately, the Patriot suspension design does have good travel numbers, so another 1" of lift would be a good fit, especially if the spring rate was consistent with the load you carried.
-- Additional lift would not have affected the winch recovery. The hill was at the limits of traction with the snow. It was safer for the vehicle to pull cable and with the falling snow, I knew there was still miles of terrain to cover.
3.) Compare this vehicle to the current Liberty. Also, Grand Vitara...?
-- The liberty has a V6 and true low-range, but no better maneuverability or dimensions. Liberty has good aftermarket support. The Liberty has a slight trail advantage, but much less economy and road performance.
-- I like the new Grand Vitara, but it has none of the skid plates and over 1" less ground clearance. The engine and drivetrain really push it into a different classification (lower fuel economy too).
-- The Patriot's competition is in the economy, cross-over segment, which includes the CRV, RAV4, Tucson, Escape, etc.
4.) Is this vehicle worth modifying? Lift kit, bigger tires, new fender (approach angle/winch), K&N air filter...etc?
-- Sure! If I had one, I would add light duty rock sliders, a rack, front and rear (exhaust) skid plates and slightly larger tires. Maybe a 1" lift. I would keep the modifications simple and just enjoy the high-speed dirt performance and economy.
5.) Lastly, would this vehicle work with an ARB locker?
-- A helical LSD would be a better choice IMHO and allow for some mechanical advantage to the traction control. I use ARB's in all of my vehicles, but the modification market will be too small for ARB to play here. Helical diff's and traction control is a sweet combo.
