Sema Builds: 2022 Ram TRX Redeye & 2023 Jeep Gladiator Willys

Terry Payne

2022 Ram TRX REDEYE

2023 JEEP GLADIATOR WILLYS

Instagram: @rdmbuilds

By Photographer/Author:

Donnie Rochin
Instagram: @r0cean11

Facebook: r0cean11 Photography
Website: r0cean11.com

“You're only as good as you think you are or will allow yourself to be, but others can make you great!” ~ Unknown US Veteran

A Life Built Around Cars

At 62 years old, I live in Scurry, Texas, with my wife Shelly and our two dogs. Our small town of just 732 people may seem unassuming, but our passion for cars is anything but. Together, we own three Mopar vehicles, but today, I’ll focus on two: my 2022 Ram TRX Redeye and 2023 Jeep Gladiator Willys Edition.

2022 Ram TRX Redeye: A Rare Beast

This truck isn’t just rare—it’s exceptional. Only three were ever made, and mine is now one of one, as the other two have unfortunately been totaled. Powered by a factory 802-hp 27z Redeye motor, this TRX is a masterpiece of power and precision.

Performance and Modifications

My TRX Redeye is more than just a factory marvel. It’s been tuned to unleash 902 hp, thanks to a Stage 1 upgrade. Additional enhancements include:

• Suspension: @GeiserOffroad springs and @HellwigSuspension sway bars for stability.

• Exterior: A @mountaintop.usa bed cover, @Yakima roof rack and bed rack, @dropracks on top of both (the first ever on a TRX).

• Lighting: @DiodeDynamics SS3 and SS5 lights.

• Wheels & Tires: @TIS Wheels 20x10-544C wrapped in @HerculesTires 37x12.50x20.

• Interior: Custom @Katzkin leather by @TexasSeats.

• Additional Details: A military-themed wrap honors my twin boys, both Army Honor Guards, as well as veterans of all branches, featuring names from the Vietnam Memorial Wall.

Why Mopar?

Growing up, my family was all about Chevys and Fords. I was the black sheep, gravitating toward Mopars after building my first 1972 Duster with a 360 engine. The turning point came when I outran my uncle in that very car. From that moment, Mopars had my heart.

2023 Jeep Gladiator Willys Edition: Built for Comfort and Competition

This Gladiator made its debut in the @SEMAPro Cup Challenge at SEMA, where, despite not winning, we gained valuable industry insights and forged lifelong friendships.

Post-SEMA Transformation

When we returned home, my wife encouraged me to make the Gladiator her ultimate comfort vehicle. Here’s what we did:

• Suspension: A 4-inch lift from @Belltech.

• Wheels & Tires: @TIS Wheels 563BZ 20x10 wrapped in @HerculesTires 37x12.50x20.

• Exterior: Updates from @AirDesignUSA and @VenturousTruckTops.

• Lighting: Cutting-edge lighting from @DiodeDynamics.

• Braking System: Upgraded with @R1Concepts brakes and @MGPCaliper covers.

• Interior: Customized with distressed leather from @Alealeather.

• Additional Features: Accessories from @Ironman4x4America, @CaliberProducts, and @Kuat, with assembly help from my friend Rob Moore at @NTXAllTerrain.

The Road to 31 Builds

Since 2019, I’ve built 31 vehicles—30 Mopars and one Ford Bronco. It all began with my first Jeep build, which I showcased at SEMA. Over the years, I’ve had incredible support from my wife, family, and industry allies like @742marketing’s Jeff Maldonado and photographers such as Donnie Rochin.

This journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Honest feedback, whether from judges or spectators, has been vital. As one particularly tough judge, Merv, once taught me: if you can’t handle criticism, don’t ask for it.

Dreaming Big

Despite all I’ve accomplished, my dream car remains the same: a 1969 Roadrunner with a 440 Six-Pack. While I’ve been offered opportunities to build this car for others, I’ve always turned them down—I want this build to be mine.

Closing Thoughts

The car community has taught me the value of collaboration, constructive criticism, and continual learning. Whether it’s an 8-year-old spotting something I missed or a 98-year-old veteran offering wisdom, every interaction has shaped my journey.

If you’re passionate about cars, I encourage you to share your story. Let’s keep the community alive and thriving.

Call to Action

Got a unique build or a story to tell? Share it with Stance Auto Magazine! Contact us today and inspire others with your automotive journey.