MetalCloak — sPod mount and vacuum pump relocation kit, Jeep Wrangler JK 2012–2018

From the 2012 model year, the JK's brake vacuum pump sits on the front frame rail — exactly where the Frame-Built bumper base goes and where a low-mounted winch needs to sit.

This bracket moves the pump into the engine bay and provides an sPod mount at the same time. The manufacturer combined the two because the earlier stand-alone relocation bracket could foul the sPod mount.

? Not an accessory — a prerequisite

The manufacturer states it plainly: “Relocating the vacuum pump is a necessary project to allow fitment of the MetalCloak JK Frame-Built Bumper System or any other bumper that allows your winch to sit low between the frame rails."

If you have a 2012–2018 JK and are fitting a Frame-Built bumper, this kit is mandatory.

Is moving the pump safe?

The manufacturer addresses it directly: “According to «sources» the reason Jeep moved the canister from the engine compartment down to the frame rails is that it makes a slight pumping sound and they wanted that sound as far away from the driver as possible. Moving the canister does not compromise any of your Jeep's systems."

To be straight about it: that is the manufacturer's explanation, not FCA's position. In practice it means the pump will be slightly more audible after relocation, because it ends up closer to the cabin. Worth knowing before you fit it.

Construction

• 1/8in steel bracket, CAD formed and laser cut
• Gold zinc finish — zinc bonds molecularly to the steel and keeps protecting it after a knock, unlike paint
• “M" logo cutout
• Factory mounting locations — no drilling
• All hardware included

The sPod mount

sPod is a popular switching system for auxiliary lighting and electrical accessories. This bracket carries a ready mount for its module — the sPod itself is not included.

Specifications

• Fits: Jeep Wrangler JK 2012–2018 (2- and 4-door)
• Manufacturer part number: 3151
• Material: 1/8in steel, CAD formed, laser cut
• Finish: gold zinc
• Functions: vacuum pump relocation plus sPod mount
• Mounting: factory locations, hardware included
• Shipping weight: about 1.2 kg (our estimate — the manufacturer does not publish one)
• Made in the USA
• Manufacturer lead time: 3–5 days

Reviews

Manufacturer rating: 95% of 100 from 26 reviews — one of the more-reviewed items in the catalogue, which says a lot about how many people end up buying it alongside a bumper.

FAQ

I have a 2010 JK — do I need this?

No. The issue affects 2012–2018. On earlier years the pump is already in the engine bay.

Do I need an sPod?

No. The bracket does both jobs; the sPod mount can simply go unused.

Is it only for MetalCloak bumpers?

No. The relocation is needed with any bumper that puts the winch low between the frame rails.

Any drilling?

No — the bracket uses the factory mounting points.