Rubi Kunsch Built & Raced Her Own KOH Jeep

Rubi Kunsch is an Ultra4 racer competing in the 4600 class with her self-built 1997 Jeep TJ, race number 808. She finished 19th at King of the Hammers in 2026 after completing one lap before breaking on the second. An AWS certified welder, fabricator, and instructor based in St. George, Utah, she runs Send It Nation while sharing builds, races, and shop work. The conversation covers her path from fashion blogger and contractor to full-time Ultra4 competitor, the real costs of racing, and why she builds her own car.

Timestamps

• 00:00 – Ruby Kooch: 808, Ultra4 Racer, Hawaii Roots
• 02:43 – Ruby's Name, Machining Roots, and Red Jeep Passion
• 06:01 – From Boston to Hawaii: Living History & Local Off‑Road Spots
• 07:37 – Life Across States & Rock‑Type Differences in Off‑Roading
• 11:12 – Launching Ultra4 Career During COVID and Building a Brand
• 13:55 – Monetizing Off‑Road Content: Sponsorships, Social Media Income
• 16:33 – Racing Costs, Fundraising, and Financial Challenges
• 21:20 – Maintaining Humility and Ethical Partnerships in Sponsorships
• 23:35 – Navigating OnlyFans Concerns and Online Reputation
• 27:24 – Sustainable Brand Support Through Visibility and Performance
• 28:32 – Clutch Work, Hand Throttle, and Drivetrain Upgrades
• 33:14 – Team Dynamics, Self‑Built Jeep, and Learning Mechanics
• 36:00 – Learning Welding and Automotive Skills via Mentors and Media
• 40:17 – Using Catheters in Ultra4 Races: Design and Practical Issues
• 44:02 – Ruby's Health Challenges and Medical Support
• 47:10 – Building Dedicated Ultra4 Race Jeep vs. Everyday Jeeps
• 50:11 – Closing Remarks and Future Interview Plans
• 50:51 – Promoting Send It Nation: Social Media, Community, Education
• 52:54 – Upcoming Events: SEMA, PRI, and Racing Calendar
• 54:58 – Travel Food Favorites and Dietary Choices
• 57:04 – Sponsorships, Food Talk, and Road Trip Highlights
• 58:11 – Show Disclaimer and Closing Statement

Key Highlights

• Built her own 1997 TJ (T-Rex) for the 4600 stock class with a 4.0L, AX15, and JK Rubicon transfer case
• Finished 19th at King of the Hammers 2026 but broke on the second lap
• Race number 808 comes from the Hawaii area code; she fought to keep it
• AWS certified welder who teaches free classes and fabricates her own race car
• Low-budget program racing against half-million-dollar factory cars while still placing ninth nationally

If you build or race a TJ, what part would you never touch on a 4600-class car? Drop it in the comments. Subscribe for more real Jeep builds and trail talk, and check out more episodes at jeeptalkshow.com.

Support the Show & Shop Jeep Gear Thank you for watching and listening! If you enjoyed the conversation with Rubi Kunsch, consider checking out some of the great products and upgrades we discussed.

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