:flipoff2:

Well it has been three years since I really did anything to the jeep, but it is time.
The rig works really good, but there is always room for improvement.
Ideally I would sell the jeep and build a buggy, but after 7mos and no bites here on Pirate, I committed myself to working on it.

Plans:
Swap in an Automatic Tranny - done
Custom Motor Mounts - done
Custom Tranny Mount - done
Replace the bashed oilpan - done
Replace/relocate the downtube for the exhaust - done
Skin the grill - integrate with rad hoop - ditched the idea
Tubework - almost done
Cage - almost done
Corner guards - included with tubework
LED tailights (they will finally match each other)

Before:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/2hd.jpg

Teardown.

Pulled the fenders, grill, motor, tranny, and tcase.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00025.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00029.JPG

The main motivation - Automatic Tranny.

I have replaced the clutch twice this past year, so I have decided on the automatic. I guess I will have to learn to drive again, but there are some great reasons for this swap. The AW4 tranny that I decided upon, is a very dependable tranny. It bolts on to my motor and tcase, no adapters needed. It is electronically controlled by a standalone computer, but I found a way to bypass that. BrettM from here on the board (http://awshifting.com) has an electronic module that replaces the computer and allows manual control of the gears while in drive. There is a rotary knob that selects drive gears 1 thru 4 and a flip switch to control the torque converter lockup. It is a standalone control box for the electronics of this tranny. AWESOME PRODUCT. Check out his website as I have seen it evolve from scratch over the past year and a half. I will install a floor shifter to select park, reverse, neutral, and drive. Once in drive, i switch gears with the control module and the rotary knob.

So out goes the AX-15 (sold it :cool2: )

and got my hands on an AW4 out of a 96XJ with 74K mi
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00034.JPG

Progress:
Got my rear main seal replaced for the motor
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00038.JPG

Put the new oil pan on
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00036.JPG

I also got the auto bolted up to the motor but still need to bolt the torque converter to the flexplate when I can turn the motor.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00040.JPG

Created cardboard templates for the driver side motor mount. It will be overkill, but should work great. Dropped the templates off at HBRK to have them plasma the steel out to match my templates.

got the motor mount and shock tower ground off of the frame:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/grindframe.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/grindframe2.jpg

Began fabricating the new motor mount:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/MM1.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/MM2.jpg

:eek: Jeep tech in the Jeep forum? Hallelfawkinlujah!

Looks good :beer:

Seems like Jeep forum is for diagnosing rough idles and locating new soft tops, not everything but a lot of the posts anyways. I may even have to do some write ups this winter on what I've done. Nothing major but would be nice to see some things being BUILT :p

Keep us posted

This looks like a great project. I'm definitely going to keep tuned in. Thanks for sharing with everyone.

Nice looking project, that motor mount looks wicked! Can't wait to see more progress pics of it (well the whole project that is!)

Nice looking project, that motor mount looks wicked! Can't wait to see more progress pics of it (well the whole project that is!)


well here you go:

got the motor mount completed:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00021.JPG

got the tranny controller in the mail:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/DSC00023.JPG

I also pulled the steering apart to diagnose the slop. I found the plastic bushing in the column just outside the firewall was shattered, so the shaft was loose in the column. There was no slip allowed in the steering shaft, as it was frozen up, and the pitman arm is still located directly above the diff. I will cut out the round crossmember, tuck the steering box up into the frame, which will flatten the draglink and fix the stuff listed above.

nice looking truck.

That oilpan looks like it has a smaller sump than what's on a 4.0L. Is it a 4.2L pan?
Why did you change the mounts?

nice project! i definetly want too here how your tranny works with that manual shift. very nice tech!

That oilpan looks like it has a smaller sump than what's on a 4.0L. Is it a 4.2L pan?
Why did you change the mounts?

Yes, its an earlier 4.2 pan, smaller sump, with skid plate tacked on. My jeep has the 4.2, as it is a 90. The driver side mount has broken 4 times, mostly the grade 8 bolts snapping in the block. The leverage that these motors have against the mounts is WAY too much. I would have run the MORE mounts, but there is a broken easy out in one of the mount holes, that aint coming out. This design was my best 2nd choice. I plan to have a very similar crossmember for the tranny, a solid mount with sleeved bushings at the frame.

fun this weekend so far

Mounted the bender to the sidewalk :cool2:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/08-21-05/DSC00021.JPG

bent a tranny crossmember:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/08-21-05/DSC00023.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/08-21-05/DSC00028.JPG

bent a front hoop:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/08-21-05/DSC00027.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/08-21-05/DSC00025.JPG

Looks great! Nice place for the bender :flipoff2:

Damn man thats some pretty nice fabwork. I like that crossmember design a lot, man i need a bender

Looking good, keep up the good work. How exactly does that tranny controller work. Do they make one for a C-4?

Looking good, keep up the good work. How exactly does that tranny controller work. Do they make one for a C-4?


go manual valvebody, there just is not a manual valvebody out for the AW4

:smokin: weeknight progress:

WIRED THE TRANNY CONTROLLER. OMG that was easy. 15minutes Cool product BrettM. Very easy and should turn out great. Have not tested it of course, but the wiring part of the install took no time at all. I am constructing a console to mount my new shifter as well as the electronics, and the 4wd selector. I purchased a poly/plastic center console from an MJ at the junkyard this weekend, which even matches the interior color of my jeep (just a lucky coincidence i guess). I dont know if it will work but it gives me some ideas. I also ran the tranny cooler lines to the radiator. Now the motor tranny and tcase are ready to go..... THEN ........

I came across the deal of the century on some TERA 4to1s :smokin: :smokin: - so the jeep will have a little better crawl ratio when I am all done.

54.66 with the auto.

So far I am too tired to go out to the garage, so I will post some pics.

I routed and completed the exhaust yesterday:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/awfuldowntube.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/exhaust1.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/magnaflow.JPG


Then I fixed my steering column with a new retainer for the lower bearing:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/steeringcolumn.JPG

The steering shaft is cut so that I can sleeve it and extend it for the steering box relocation. I rotated the box up flat and used one existing hole for the box. Then I marked the frame for the other lower box hole. Drilled it to 1/2" on the inside and 3/4" on the outside. I used a leafspring sleeve to sleeve the frame, which gave me just enough clearance for a good thread into the box. Tacked the sleeve in place and now I just have to fab an upper mount for the remaining hole.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/steerboxrelo.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/steerboxreloprofile.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/steerboxreloside.JPG

Of course this meant cutting out the previous stock jeep crossmember:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/unfinishedtubecut.JPG

Then I spent two hours measuring, cutting, and mocking the grill into place over the steering box. Pics of that once I get out there today.

why not just a single 2x4 for the front cross member? that 2x2 looks kinda thin wall too....thats a huge project tho!! nice work so far.....the paper boy flip his bike on the angle mounted on the sidewalk yet? :laughing:

why not just a single 2x4 for the front cross member? that 2x2 looks kinda thin wall too....thats a huge project tho!! nice work so far.....the paper boy flip his bike on the angle mounted on the sidewalk yet? :laughing:

There is more resistance to bending with the extra/double wall in the middle. It is all in theory, but for some reason there was enough motivation for me to do it that way.

As far as the paperboy, the mounts are flush in the ground

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/sidewalkholes.JPG

But it still looks like a machine gun mount when I am using it. :flipoff2:

some cut grill pics:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/grillcut.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/grillcut2.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/grillcut3.JPG


I was not happy with how it turned out, but I am really losing interest in the details. I need this thing done asap.

Here are some pics of the flatter draglink that is out front of the dif now. :lol:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/pitmanarmlevel2.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/pitmanarmlevel.JPG

Nice work, I love the sidewalk mounted bender. if anyone asks WTF just blame it on the cable company. Thats what i'd do. I ended up pouring a special pad. What a dumbass I am. The side would have been great. Oh Well.

My bender has been on my sidewalk for a couple years now. The neighbors love me. Nice project, keep up the progress and pics.

Nice work, I love the sidewalk mounted bender. if anyone asks WTF just blame it on the cable company. Thats what i'd do. I ended up pouring a special pad. What a dumbass I am. The side would have been great. Oh Well.

Yeah if anyone asks, I just say I was trying to make a new mailbox stand. :flipoff2:

some more steering system pics:

Extension for steering shaft:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/steeringshaft.JPG

a little better idea of the clearance for the pitman arm:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/pitman.JPG

a much flatter draglink than before:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/draglink2.JPG

now when I said the deal of the century on some gears, i wasnt joking :flipoff2:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/freegears.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/teralow.JPG

I had a little problem after everything was bolted in and everything was connected.

See the sidebar here:

Swapping a cherokee AW4 automatic tranny into a YJ with a 4.2L (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=389689)


But I solved it and the sucker kicked over.
I have not bolted the torque converter to the flywheel, because I have not tracked down a dust sheild yet. Therefore I did not want the motor running, but I had to make sure the electrical connections would allow it to work. I pulled the t-case and the tranny out for two reasons. I put together the new tcase with the front half for the new tera gears; and I have the transmission out waiting for the dust shield.

Good old three day weekend. Two days of work and the momma is still happy, cause I sent her to get her hair done today.

I have been trying to solve my shifter dilemna in my head for about three weeks, and here is what I came up with. I liked ashmanjeepxj's (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4404162&postcount=387) thread, specifically about his shifter setup, but in the end, I just have the lowly np231 and a simple lever for the tcase is sufficient. I will also be using a stock AW4 shifter for the tranny.

So I fabbed this shifter bracket that will bolt to the tcase and tranny:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/tcaseshifterbracket1.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/tcaseshifterbracket2.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/tcaseshifterbracket3.JPG


Then i built a console to house the shifter for the tranny:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/console1.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/console2.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/console3.JPG

If you look close, there is a piece of stainless that I cut to cover the top. I will cut out a spot for the shifters to come up through. Then I plan to skin the sides too, perhaps put a little tunes from the console too.

LOOKING GOOD NATE!

Reminds me to get to work on my grill / rad / fenders up front :)

It`ll be nice to be LOW and with an auto eh ? :)

Keep us posted

I need to put a plug in here for EXCELLENT customer service. Neil at JW Autowreckers (http://www.jwjeep.com/) has been a great guy to deal with. I have gotten exactly what I needed from him for a great price and unbelievable service. Thanks a Bunch!

I got the AW4 from him along with a new oilpan and exhaust tubing. He provided the shifter and linkage and when I called back, he shipped out some simple additional parts as quick as anyone ever could. I cant say enough about this vendor, and I know he is on the Pirate Board, so shoot him some bidness.

I DROVE IT!

I took the jeep for a joyride on Saturday. Front wheel drive, full locker on the streets. It wasnt very joyful, but satisfying nonetheless. Drove to Shucks to buy a fuse for my transmission controller. I can change gears with the floor shifter even when the electronics do not work. Good back up in my opinion. I did not secure the top bolt for the steering box before this drive, so it broke a bolt and is loose from the frame. IDIOT - but I did escape the darwin awards. I am a lucky man. The bolt gave in the driveway when I got home. I was steering back and forth to purge bubbles from the steering system. Pop! WTF? OMG! So I left it alone yesterday.


Need to do still:

Shocks front - still need to buy
Shock mounts front
Tubing Front - no fenders yet
Rear driveshaft- hopefully it is done
Center console - fasten down and finish for looks
Tcase shifter - need to cut a larger hole in the floor for full movement
Cage - bought tubing today
Sliders - bought tubing today

I may have to take a day off of work for this weekend to get this done.

Is that two headed dragon in the first pic?


Is that Marks yota in the first pic? Tell Him I want my 30 minutes back!

That thing looks sweet! Lots of good work man!

Is that two headed dragon in the first pic?


Is that Marks yota in the first pic? Tell Him I want my 30 minutes back!

That thing looks sweet! Lots of good work man!


Dont know Mark, he just made it out for that trail that day, but yeah its 2HD.


Hoping to take the other head after this bout. :flipoff2:

Vid of that day:
http://webilt.com/video/hdo2hd.wmv

We drove an XJ up that side and got stuck just at the top in the smallest of holes...


almost lost a windshield from rocks falling as well but the exo saved it!

we are going to hit it this weakend I think.

Drove the rig onto the trailer and took it down to HBRK. I did some advertisement work for their shop, so they are returning the "labor" for me. Plans include 6pt cage, fenders and nose hoop, including a winch mount.
I could have done it myself, but it was fun to go to their shop, shoot the shit and get some badass fabbing done by the mastas of this town. Good guys.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/cage1.jpg

drove it for about 10 min in one spot

But here is the update:

Between Pepper and I we got the cage mostly finished:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/cage.JPG


Shane got the sliders done, for now:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/sliders.JPG

Should have made those years ago.

and Pepper finished up the nosehoop:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/nosehoopfinal2.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/nosehoopfinal.JPG

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/nosehoopfinal3.JPG

I really like your work. Good job.

JOSH

Driving it for real :flipoff2:

In total I have driven it less than 1mile so far.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/dscf0609.jpg

From that pic, I was high center and stuck between the factory skid and my traction bar x-member. I had to fab a new x-member, that one broke. Got the cage and tubework on the front painted for the season :flipoff2:

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/j5_498.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/j4_157.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/j10_105.jpg

The paint set it off perfect man!! Looks great...

I think Mark made it out to the trail with us, but I still dont know him :flipoff2:

I really dig the paint scheme.. I am thinking of doing the opposite on mine.. (White cage, orange jeep)
Scott

Nate, looking sweet!

Gui

Great fab work man. I dig it. It really did turn out nice :D

Looks good nate now ya just gotat tube the fenders

Yeah, I went nuts and bought LOTSA tube. I still have 3&3/4sticks of 1.75 to tube my front fenders and incorporate the shock mounts. They will be stout enough to support coilovers...someday, but why waste anytime and have to reengineer??? I like it, the cosmetic appearance is a bonus, I just wanted it functional, the cage turned out just how I imagined. (just one difference, but it was a design difference and I am happier with the final product than my idea) The front is a pepdaddy masterpiece in true peppdaddy style. He really impresses me with his ideas. Thanks for the compliments, now I hope to really wheel it and get to the level where I actually start to push the limits of this new rig.

The most important part to me is the drivetrain. The auto is SWEET. It runs flawlessly, and makes driving easy. I am converted. I also cannot say enough about the crawl ratio. The auto with the 4to1s is perfect. Yes it wants to creep outta the brakes but thats it, it wants to but just barely cant. I will continue to report about my usage and different terrain conditions, cause I have a feeling it is going to snow this winter :flipoff2:

I will take some pics of the details as I get a chance too. There is still alot of details to expand on.

Lookin' good Nate!

Nice Work I Like The Orange Cage And Front Tube Work. Wonder How A Similar Front Would Look Also Tied Into To My Tube Fenders ? Ideas Ideas :d

stay tuned, there will be fenders before the winter is over :idea:

Any plans for round head lights??? :flipoff2:

edit to add a link for the grill at PM request:
No plans for round headlights, but I have done the research and you can now buy a grill that bolts on from DC:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/55-right.jpg
http://www.trailquest.com/body-parts/yj.shtml


How is your YJ coming along Doug? Come out for our trailride on the 26th, running a bunch of Owyhee trails. It will be fun and the Jeep just might wander up the right hand side of the 2HD. :flipoff2: :flipoff2:
Redmist, you are more than invited too.

PM for details.

man saw the dc kit, looks fugly though!!

I had a fun day out rowing. Bent up some rear fenders, now I just have to figure out the mounts that I want to use. I also plan to get the fronts done(bent) tomorrow. We will see how the muscles feel tho :flipoff2:

:bender:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/rearfenders.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/rearfenders2.jpg

its about fawking time - got a digi camera and dont have to take still with my video camera.

Got the fenders bent and welded into place:

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/dscf0034_184.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/dscf0035_792.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/dscf0036_212.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/dscf0037_124.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/dscf0039_592.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/dscf0062_108.jpg

Looking good Nate.

Looking good Nate.


Thanks for the props fellas.
The fenders were a simple piece. The fronts were a 90 bend at the front and a perpindicular 60 bend down to the sliders. The rears were a 60 bend to flatten it above the tire, a 60 bend down behind the tire and an opposing 60 bend to flatten it out to the corner. The 90 bend around the back was to protect the corners and to follow the flow of the front. They came out pretty good, need to hone my tubing welding skills still. Lots of porous weld spots that need redone. I plan to build a tire carrier or a cooler rack between what I left for the rear.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/rear.jpg

Nate you got any extra room in your shop must be somethin in the air in that shop -- things are getting done and lookin good, mine went into the warehouse two months ago and I havnt touched it since, been collecting parts but not working on it, SO when you get a spot give me a call!!! :D :D :D

So about half of this thread was deleted about a month ago. :laughing: :laughing:

Update:
Got the fenders painted.

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/2006_0103image0001_208.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/2006_0103image0002_110.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/forum/files/2006_0103image0003_175.jpg

Sweet Job man! You gave me some new ideas for my YJ!

Nice looken Nate.

Since I missed ya last time you were in town be sure to call next time you are :flipoff2:

Damn that turned out great!

No time for wheelin right now... Shit I can't even clean up the spilled MtDew in my rig for lack of spare time.

Work is a bitch but it will pay off. I plan on stretching the TJ in Feb. some time if money goes right.

Nate,

very clean, any pics showing the full side of teh rig? I am starting to plan for my "light" exo tubing as well, and like your setup!

Gui

Any trouble with the motor mounts? Seems like putting the mounts further from the motor puts more torque on them. Other than that it looks awesome, keep it up.

Nice looken Nate.

Since I missed ya last time you were in town be sure to call next time you are :flipoff2:


Yeah I was bummed, then I got back and you got H8's old rig??? Keep me informed if you build that.

Any trouble with the motor mounts? Seems like putting the mounts further from the motor puts more torque on them. Other than that it looks awesome, keep it up.

No trouble with two runs. Truthfully, that is better performance than stock. I do have a concern about the tranny mounts, but time will tell for that.
Transmission crossmember discussion (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=404437)

very clean, any pics showing the full side of teh rig? I am starting to plan for my "light" exo tubing as well, and like your setup!

Not quite finished or ready for publication :flipoff2:

Dont worry though, they turned out great! Need to do some more trimming and painting still before they are finished. It is rainy here in Southern Idaho right now, so it is hit and miss for productive work.

Damn that turned out great!

No time for wheelin right now... Shit I can't even clean up the spilled MtDew in my rig for lack of spare time.

Work is a bitch but it will pay off. I plan on stretching the TJ in Feb. some time if money goes right.


Dude, you are welcome on a run anytime. This month is the same thing. Owyhees Jan 28th 900am at dans ferry.

I think there is still lots of coors light on the floor of my rig :flipoff2: :flipoff2:

Yeah I was bummed, then I got back and you got H8's old rig??? Keep me informed if you build that.

If..... it's more like WHEN :mad3: no time or room lately.
I have my front 60 torn apart awaiting new knuckls, shafts, and ctms.. once those are installed i`ll build the steering setup/brace and installl the POS double ended ram, and tie-rods. Once that's done, i`ll setup the panhard mount (hopefuly incorporate with stering brace/setup) and then setup link brackets on axle. Once all thats done install it and seutp brackets on frame.. LOL sounds so easy... now if I only had enough room (damn rain!).

yours is looking nice :) KNow anyone who wants my YJ heh :laughing:

Dude, you are welcome on a run anytime. This month is the same thing. Owyhees Jan 28th 900am at dans ferry....


Went out on the trail this weekend, the rig performed really well. I got into the right side of 2HD, but the rocks were too slick with the snow to do anything productive. The rear suspension got pretty stressed and I bent a leaf spring really good. That along with losing an inner bead on the front got me really lodged in there and I had to get winched out sideways so I could back out of it. Before I was off the obstacle, the leaf spring was flat again and the bead reseated and had 5lbs of air. It was weird, but awesome. Ran the rest of the day without problems, just scratched up the tube really good. Perfect spot for all of the tubing for the trails that I do. Pics later today, I hope...

pics:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/IMG_1460.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/IMG_1464.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/P1270015.jpg

As you can see in the pics, I got into the rear fenders pretty hard. I decided to add a support bar and clean up the unfinished paint job today:

So I took the driver side fender off today and skinned it bare with a wire wheel. The cheap paint on there is bubbling and peeling off if I try to paint over it. Probably half my fault for poor prep work and painting when it was in the 20's outside.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/driverearfender01.jpg

You can see the support that I made to tie in the top of the frame horn to the fender. It will be stout.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/driverearfender02.jpg

Mocked it up on the rig three times to check for clearance and trimming - then cut the tub some more:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/driverearfender03.jpg

I used a good primer this time and then shot the pumpkin orange on the fender while it was off the rig. You can see the support is not fully welded in this pic, just tacked. I wanted to keep it true on the frame, so I waited till it was tacked on the rig for final welding.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/driverearfender04.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/driverearfender05.jpg

Full profile pic for Gui:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/profile2-11-06.jpg

Great Post thank you - just curious about the bender your using - I see "pipe benders" at Harbour frieght that look very much like the one your using - always wondered if that would be adequate for making cross memebrs cage components etc.... Is that what you are using? Are you also heating the tubing w/ acetyline torch???? Very intersted in any commentary you may have regarding that benderand its utility.

Looking good Nate! Really using that thing now :grinpimp:

I haven't made much progress... waiten on my knuckles to setup the steering hten link it and be done :D

thats pretty. i coudnt have it any other way. good job and keep uo the good work

Great Post thank you - just curious about the bender your using - I see "pipe benders" at Harbour frieght that look very much like the one your using - always wondered if that would be adequate for making cross memebrs cage components etc.... Is that what you are using? Are you also heating the tubing w/ acetyline torch???? Very intersted in any commentary you may have regarding that benderand its utility.

It is not the HF bender, it is the JD2 manual bender. I have not bent pipe, just HREW, so I have never experienced what you are asking. I clean the tubing and mount it in the bender, then row.

Todd, what knuckles are you getting?

It is not the HF bender, it is the JD2 manual bender. I have not bent pipe, just HREW, so I have never experienced what you are asking. I clean the tubing and mount it in the bender, then row.

Todd, what knuckles are you getting?

Dedenbear knuckles (outer).

Some more trail time this weekend. Had a blast with the club running some scenic trails, then got down to business in Carnage Canyon. This trail did not have me get into any of the tubework, though I tried my hardest :flipoff2:

kevin entering the pit (http://4x4lizard.com/trailrides/ccfeb06/kevinfeb06.wmv)

nate taking the same line with 20" less wheelbase (http://4x4lizard.com/trailrides/ccfeb06/tirelift.wmv) :flipoff2:

Taking the buggy line (http://4x4lizard.com/trailrides/ccfeb06/highwallccnate.wmv)

Well, here's what happened the last time I wheeled:

http://4x4lizard.com/gallery/albums/2hdmarch2006/naterightheadbreaks.wmv

So here are the results.

Broken Ujoint:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/ujoint.jpg

Broken inner and outer short side shafts:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/44shaftsbroken.jpg

Bent Tie Rod:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/tierod.jpg

Bent leaf spring - front passenger side:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/bentwaggy.jpg

and a punched rear dif cover(again).

Well, the axle shafts are stock 80's waggy and so are the front leaf springs. What better way to get the parts that I need than buying a full 81 waggy?:flipoff2:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/waggyrear.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/waggyside.jpg

wheres that pic taken @ in the first part of the post?
tried finding that shop while i was cruizin boise, its actually located a block or 2 from a family members shop. hoping to bring a couple of my jeeps back up that way come summer time.. too damn cold there during the winter.

Thean

i thought yj springs were supposed to bend for that cirle track feel?

wheres that pic taken @ in the first part of the post?
tried finding that shop while i was cruizin boise, its actually located a block or 2 from a family members shop. hoping to bring a couple of my jeeps back up that way come summer time.. too damn cold there during the winter.

Thean

i thought yj springs were supposed to bend for that cirle track feel?

Shop is now moved west of Kuna, look for a "new" website in the near future. That trail is called 2HD - it has been referred to a couple of times here in this thread, but it is a great trail, and has fed me my own jeep for lunch twice now. Shoot a PM to me when you are in town and I can show you the general location of about four great trails, all within a couple miles of each other.

I got the waggy all stripped down and ready for the crusher. Took off the leaf springs, steering box, front 44 axle housing( and took out the shafts ) rear amc20, transmission and 219 tcase. It also had a rear hitch receiver that I am going to adapt to the rear of the YJ. I left the doors and hood on, but there is nothing left to this thing. Headed to the scrapper on Monday.
http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/waggydone.jpg

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/waggy/waggydone2.jpg

Also purchased some BBCS from PIG for the front of the YJ.
O:==============:--------:::::|O
|--------21"--------|--------|2.5"|2"|
The shock has a 2.5" + bumpstop built in, so looking at 25" compressed length and 36" extended length.

This will usually keep me out of the bumpstop unless I take a really good bounce, then I will hit the bumpstop for 1" and then the fenders. The shock will still be the limiting strap as far as I can tell.

Used the high tech bender on the sidewalk and started up some shock towers. Plan to just weld to the top of the frame. Eventually they will have a cross brace, but we will see.

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/shockhoopsraw.jpg

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/shockhoopsraw2.jpg

For reference here is what I had to start with on the shock towers. The airbox hanging by zip ties from the radiator strut :confused: :

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/shockstart.jpg

and the full inner fenders: ( note the return line for the power steering :shaking: )

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/shockstart2.jpg

I left the inner fenders, though I am not a huge fan, there is every now and then that you got to get the cobwebs out of the motor and throttle through some mud:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/shockstart3.jpg

I put the hoop flat on the top of the frame, angled out to the fender and had the tabs over the top of the fender:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/shockscompare.jpg


I will then tie the hoops to each other, over the engine compartment. Tube will be removable with tabs on each side.

The hoops will also serve as mounting points/surfaces for additional equipment destined for the engine compartment. The passenger side hoop will have an auxillary cooler mounted to it for the transmission. The driver side hoop will have a sturdy mount for the air cleaner.

Shocks go straight up and down, not angled forward or outwards to the mounts on the axle.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/bbcsmounted.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/bbcsmounted2.jpg

nice, I like how you did that keeping teh inner fenders and all.

yeah it's fun to throttle through some mud, about once a year.:D

Do you have any pictures of the finished box on the floor that holds the shifter?
Nice build, simple and effective.

Do you have any pictures of the finished box on the floor that holds the shifter?
Nice build, simple and effective.

Nope, its not finished, just getting rusty.

Got a trailride in and did some badass trails. Here is a clip of what they call topripper:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gallery/albums/topripper06/natetopripper.wmv

Then trying my luck on gatekeeper:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gallery/albums/topripper06/nategatekeeper.wmv



Broken inner, so i am going cromo.

Looking good Nate. I guess it's time for some chromo shafts or a 60, huh?

That trail ride must have been a couple of months ago. I think it's a little warm for long sleeves this time of year. I'm geussing that is the upper section of gate keeper? Where is top ripper? That trail looks like a lot of fun.

Looking good Nate. I guess it's time for some chromo shafts or a 60, huh?

That trail ride must have been a couple of months ago. I think it's a little warm for long sleeves this time of year. I'm geussing that is the upper section of gate keeper? Where is top ripper? That trail looks like a lot of fun.


DING DING DING

I had it with the effort and breakage, so I bought a cromo inner. As time and money allows, I will add a stub, then CTM, then work the long side too. I have decided to be very soft on the skinny pedal until I have a full set, then it will be go time. Also, that vid was indeed memorial weekend, when it was raining/sleeting on me.

Hey Nate, I remember when it looked like this:flipoff2: Very nice bulid up

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/robeod/nate.jpg

Nate,
Congrats on being famous...saw your rig in the latest Petersen's 4WOR rag
Sweet build, one of my favorites. :smokin:

Hey Nate, I remember when it looked like this:flipoff2: Very nice bulid up

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/robeod/nate.jpg


Nice. I remember when it looked like this:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/p411.jpg

Nate,
Congrats on being famous...saw your rig in the latest Petersen's 4WOR rag
Sweet build, one of my favorites. :smokin:

Yeah, that was pretty cool. I was sort of caught off guard, I knew there was a photographer there, but how often does that mean you will be in a magazine. I was stoked. It really fueled the land use fire here in Idaho, as this trail has not ever been designated by the BLM. It is obviously a trail, but the latest RMP does not have it listed.

http://www.4wheeloffroad.com/features/131_0704_owyhee_range_idaho_rock_crawling/

I will have some more updates here pretty quick too, as I have some progress, some carnage, and lots of trailrides to add.

Nate what's new w/the rig?

-Todd

Donor parts rig part two in full effect. I bought a 78 ford that is an F250, but its rockin a matching pair of 60s. Selling off these lighter duty axles for the hogs and going to run full width, 4link rear, 3link+panhard front. I have not decided on springs yet for the rear, but probably coils and my BBCS to dampen. I am going to run air shocks in the front, maybe it will be too much weight, but we will see. I am going to run the rockequipment airshocks so that if I need to throw some springs on em, I can later. I am also planning full hydro.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/2007_050878ford0026.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/2007_050878ford0027.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/2007_050878ford0028.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/2007_050878ford0030.jpg

Its not a bad truck, just needs some love. I am going to get a full width 44 and rear 60 to match and I will sell this truck as a full on running farm truck to recoup the funds spent to purchase it.

Lucky!!

we've run the 2.0 fox and SAW shocks on the front of a few rigs now with good results. you'll like the adjustability of them. initially tuning them always sucked for me though, trying to figure out the correct pressure and oil amounts to get the ride you height and stiffness you want. rig looks sweet. congrats on the 60's find

Awesome build! I am wondering if you could supply contact info, and a picture of how you mounted the rotary shifter for the aw4? I would like to ditch my 727 someday for one, but am unsure if I would like the manual shifting?? My junk is an on/off road rig, also used for sand drag's.

Thanks Alot

The AW4 tranny that I decided upon, is a very dependable tranny. It bolts on to my motor and tcase, no adapters needed. It is electronically controlled by a standalone computer, but I found a way to bypass that. BrettM from here on the board (http://awshifting.com) has an electronic module that replaces the computer and allows manual control of the gears while in drive. There is a rotary knob that selects drive gears 1 thru 4 and a flip switch to control the torque converter lockup. It is a standalone control box for the electronics of this tranny. AWESOME PRODUCT. Check out his website as I have seen it evolve from scratch over the past year and a half. I will install a floor shifter to select park, reverse, neutral, and drive. Once in drive, i switch gears with the control module and the rotary knob.

Sharpmachine- From post#3
http://awshifting.com/
Or search for posts by BrettM


Nate,
Nice STEAL D60/D60 from the F250, you suck! :flipoff2:

Awesome build! I am wondering if you could supply contact info, and a picture of how you mounted the rotary shifter for the aw4? I would like to ditch my 727 someday for one, but am unsure if I would like the manual shifting?? My junk is an on/off road rig, also used for sand drag's.

Thanks Alot

I am actually embarrased to show the shifter, as I just mounted it to a piece of stainless that I had in my garage and it floats around in the cab with the wires getting caught on everything. It is a really bad install. Sorry.

This controller once again has no automatic shifting, it is fully manual control. It is ideal for off road, questionable for day to day, but easy none-the-less.

Sharpmachine- From post#3
http://awshifting.com/
Or search for posts by BrettM


Nate,
Nice STEAL D60/D60 from the F250, you suck! :flipoff2:


So I really wish that I was this handy at finding parts six years ago. I came across a 79 f250 and nabbed the front and rear axles out of it to replace the 60s in the snowfighter. So I picked up a HPD44 with 8 lug monster outers:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/8lug44.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/8lug44-2.jpg

And the matching gear ratio rear end ( 3.54s as far as I can tell ):

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/60rear.jpg

Also got a grill for the missing teef:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/78f250.jpg

And a new steering column to replace this beauty ( maybe I can start using my vise-grips again ) :flipoff2: :

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/78f250steeringcolumn.jpg

2 years in the making :laughing: (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=383709)

Well the parts swap v2 is coming along. Baby boy in June (3rd kid in three years) is slowing stuff down, but making surprising progress regardless.

Tore all the halfton stuff out from under the jeep and sent it packing to a PBBer in Sacto. He looks to have a mean build coming up this fall. I hope you dont get done before me Clif.:flipoff2:

front axle out:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/jackstandsfrontaxle.jpg

rear axle out:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/jackstandsrearaxle.jpg

Jeep is ready for its new legs:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/jackstands.jpg

Went for a built 14bolt instead of the 60 rear:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/14boltunderjeep.jpg

60 set under the jeep:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/60frontunderjeep.jpg

Its raw and ready for all the goodies:
http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/60frontunderjeep2.jpg

Got some 15" rims so that I could just run the 38SX for now and upsize later when funds allow. Yellow rims off old Texas Crawler:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/texascrawler.jpg

Lookin swanky man!

Got the gas tank pulled today:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/nogastank.jpg

Cut all the tubing off the outside since I will be too low for it to work:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/tubingontrailer.jpg

And mocked the wheelbase and width up at the end of the day:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/cutprofile.jpg

Super slow progress, but some work regardless.

Got the brakes clearenced for my 15" rims. These rims have 2.5-2.75" backspacing, so I really only ground 1/4" off of 1/2" inch of the caliper.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/brakeclearance.jpg

Ever seen this pattern before on trailreadys???

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/trailreadys.jpg

Great Build....excited To See More... I Plan On Doing The 14 Bolt And 60 Front Soon So Very Interesting Thread For Me.....keep It Up:)

The wheels dont look like they have taken much abuse. I like the build. Keep it coming.

The wheels dont look like they have taken much abuse. I like the build. Keep it coming.

Yeah, that was the spare, they have some use. Got the 38s slipped onto the rims yesterday but still need to bolt on the rings.

More progress-

Ruffstuff Specialties tabs and link brackets:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/tabs.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/tabs2.jpg

and my link joints:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/rejoint.jpg

I have to wait to go 3 link for now, just because I could not settle on the air shock vs Coilover debate. I kept finding really reasonable priced COs, but of course not reasonable enough for my cheap ass. I think that is the route I will go next build, but the leaf springs will stay for now.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/frontsusp2.jpg

I got the wheels and tires mounted:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/wheelsmounted.jpg

and cut the corners off the tub of the jeep.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/compcut.jpg

I put the gastank inside the tub

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/gastanklocation.jpg

and put my old parts bin in behind that. Nothing is mounted yet, I may need to cut up the floor a bit for my suspension still.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/partsbin.jpg


I started fabbing up the links

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/linkmock.jpg

Here is a little detail: 1.75"dom .25"wall, 1.25"allthread, RE threaded collars, and RE Joints

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/linkdetail.jpg

Looken good Nate!

That jeeps going through transformation after transformation.

Looks Good Nate!

Can't wait to see this thing on the trail. Scored on the F250!!

If you need any help, just give me a call. I am always willing to help. As you know, I just completed my rebuild. It came out sweet and the 4-link with coilovers changed the whole experience. I went with RaceRunner C/O's in the rear and left BDS springs in front. It works Excellent!! I am hearing little voices whispering something about linking the front next... Little bastards.

Here is a couple of pics for inspiration! One is shot 10 minutes after getting it fired up following a 4 month garagefest. The other is Rattlesnake Alley.

http://www.idaho4x4.com/Jeep_Project_2007/MaidenVoyage_2.jpg

http://www.idaho4x4.com/Jeep_Project_2007/Avatar.jpg

MidnightBurn
A.K.A. GPNROKS
Johnny K Rides On!!

wow this is a great thread, and great job on the build im looking forward to seeing more pics

Looks Good Nate!

Thanks!

Can't wait to see this thing on the trail.

....The other is Rattlesnake Alley.

http://www.idaho4x4.com/Jeep_Project_2007/Avatar.jpg


I need you to go with me on that one, I know the whereabouts, but I have never been.

still working on this :flipoff2:

Link design again just for details:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/links.jpg

Eye to Eye will be 39.5" uppers and lowers.

Diff cover all welded up for the 60:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/60cover.jpg

I had some help and wired my garage for my welder.

Breaker box was pretty tapped out, but we made room:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/breakerbox.jpg

Now I have a reliable consistent method of running the welder, so I am hoping the weekend will be productive.

Rubicon this summer eh Nate :D

nice thread!

Rubicon this summer eh Nate :D

:D I am hoping to make the disabled sports run, but we will see.

figured out my angles and separation for the rear and started fabbing up the crossmember. I drew a map on the ground so that I could check everthings' fit. The crossmember is STOUT - 2"x3"x.25"

I notched the joint mounts at an angle to suck down onto the crossmember to gain 3/4" clearance and increase the surface area for my welds. ( I am not the best welder and dont intend on opening that up for discussion ). :mr-t:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2007_1216axleswap0001s.jpg

That looks great man! Are you going to still do Airshocks or what?

I still have not decided, I want c/o's but that is out of price range right now. May still go threaded tonyk airshox and then add springs later. Dont know yet.

I did add the upper mounts to the crossmember:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2007_1229axleswap0005.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2007_1229axleswap0007.jpg

Then I hung it on the frame with some clamps to setup the geometry. I knew that I wanted 5" separation at the frame side. I knew that I wanted my lowers on top of the axle tube and almost perfectly flat with the ground.

Notched my axle mounts and fabbed the truss tube:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2007_1229axleswap0003.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2007_1229axleswap0002.jpg

here is the layout in the 4 link calc:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/4linkgeometry.gif

The higher the belly ends up, the higher my anti-squat, anywhere above 60% is ok and anything less than 100% is okay for me too.

Besides that, I think everything else makes sense. If you have some way to improve this setup please feel free to chime in.

we've run the 2.0 fox and SAW shocks on the front of a few rigs now with good results. you'll like the adjustability of them. initially tuning them always sucked for me though, trying to figure out the correct pressure and oil amounts to get the ride you height and stiffness you want. rig looks sweet. congrats on the 60's find

Looks like I just got these for the rear. SAW 2.0 Airshox.

Here is the crossmember getting bolted and finalized before I burn in the link lengths:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/01072008kidsjeep%20046s.jpg

Links are welded together for final fit:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%20003s.jpg

Got the rear standing on its own just so that I can move it from one garage to another:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%20005s.jpg

Rear is ready to move, bought a new house and the jeep is craving the larger garage:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%20010s.jpg

Got the front bolted onto the suspension, just need to get the outers bolted on:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%20008s.jpg

Now it is rolling with the TMAX power:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%200031s.jpg

I am pretty stoked today, big step to get it rolling after the jackstand stint for 7 months:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%200051s.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%200101s.jpg

Lets See Pics Of Said Larger Garage.... Nice Work Everything Looks Great Makes Me Wanna Rip Mine Apart Again:d

Got the rear standing on its own just so that I can move it from one garage to another:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/axleswap%20005s.jpg

What is the vertical separation between your upper and lower links on the axle end?

Looks good Nate, nice rear on that thihng ;)

Congrats on the new garage... PICS :D

What is the vertical separation between your upper and lower links on the axle end?

x2 I'm far from a pro but those look too close. If I were a gambling man, I put money on you having wrap issues

Im very new to using the four link calc. So am i reading this right the rear uppers are 37" and the lowers are 36"?

What is the vertical separation between your upper and lower links on the axle end?

6 inches

Im very new to using the four link calc. So am i reading this right the rear uppers are 37" and the lowers are 36"?

they are triangulated, so the links are longer - 39.5, but they attach 36 and 37 inches away from the other mount, does that make sense? If you open up the 4link calc, the red arrows at the top of those boxes will explain that for you

x2 I'm far from a pro but those look too close. If I were a gambling man, I put money on you having wrap issues

They may be too close, but it will break instead of wrap. I doubt it will be too big an issue unless I get some big HP in the form of a motor swap. There is always room for improvement, but I am gambling on this setup working for me. I will certainly report back any breakage.

Swanky!!

Whats left in the build?

Swanky!!

Whats left in the build?

before it works:
gear the 14bolt to 5.38s
plumb the gas tank
install the high steer arm
fab my draglink
fab my airshock mounts for the rear
cut holes in my floor for the uppers - they hit the tub at the truss
and where the tub steps from the driver floor to the rear floor.

Before this stage is "done" (relative)
cut all of the old sliders off
fab new sliders that will likely boatside the tub
tie the cage to the frame
tie the seats into the cage
fab new front fender tubing
fab new rear fender tubing

Before summer is over:
get some 42s and taller rims
lower it 2 inches
link the front with c/os

6 inches

I guess I could have looked at the link calc picture... :shaking: :p
I like how the lowers are mounted up and out of the way.
6" is more than it looked like, and like you said it might work out alright as long as HP and tires size doesn't get out of control. I want to do something similar with the lower mounts, but am concerned that my uppers will have to end up being sky high.

You build has progressed very well. Best of luck!

Starting to take shape Nate. Looks great! More pics and more progress. Let me know if you need a hand with anything. I'm always willing go come by and screw something up for ya!:homer:

they are triangulated, so the links are longer - 39.5, but they attach 36 and 37 inches away from the other mount, does that make sense? If you open up the 4link calc, the red arrows at the top of those boxes will explain that for you

That makes sence I appreciate it!

new garage - lots of work moving :confused:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/garage01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/garage02.jpg

filled up the garage pretty easy:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/garage03.jpg

got the jeep off of the trailer and in the new garage, time to get back at it.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/fullwidth01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/fullwidth02.jpg

couple more parts to get it finalized

60 arm from TonyK:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/60arm01.jpg

14" Sway-A-Way airshox, used....but never used :grinpimp:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/saw01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/saw02.jpg

What an awesome post! Thanks for keeping me entertained and educating me. I will keep my eyes on this one for more progress.

Looken good Nate!

I hope to get my c/o dialed in here within the next week or so.. You planning to visit for a trip this year?

-Todd

got back at this again, droop will need limiting straps for sure:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/fulldrooop.jpg

getting the front all buttoned up:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/60paint01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/60paint02.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/60paint04.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/pass60loaded.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/driver60loaded.jpg

mike at summit machine provided some serious goodies, but I have still not figured out who makes these highsteer arms:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/pass60steer.jpg

Flexed the rear up a lot to figure out clearance for airshock mounts:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/flexmock01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/flexmock02.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/flexmock03.jpg

Making it final:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airshoxmt1.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airshoxmt2.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airshoxmt3.jpg

I will be able to run the tie rod up high behind the axle. I am excited about this, but have to monitor the knuckles really close:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/tierod.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/tierod2.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/tierod3.jpg

My rear is mounted with the lower arms almost 1 inch above axle centerline and I have just under 7 inches verticle sep at the axle.

I cannot feel the wrap, but I can see the damage of it on the driveshaft and the yoke at the rear axle.

I firmly believe that you need to have your lower arms below the axle centerline to "lock" the axle in place from rotation under power transfer. Not trying to rain on your cool looking work. You might want to change those lower arms a bit, just to avoid having any issues. Take it from someone who did something similar, and has felt the effect$.

Jeep looks great though. :)

haha so my wife is your friend from back in the day :D I just got this link from your myspace. small f-ing world :D

jeep's looking good man!

haha so my wife is your friend from back in the day :D I just got this link from your myspace. small f-ing world :D

jeep's looking good man!

Yep, the womens will have to talk. Funny stuff. Sarah is good people. :grinpimp:

My rear is mounted with the lower arms almost 1 inch above axle centerline and I have just under 7 inches verticle sep at the axle.

I cannot feel the wrap, but I can see the damage of it on the driveshaft and the yoke at the rear axle.

I firmly believe that you need to have your lower arms below the axle centerline to "lock" the axle in place from rotation under power transfer. Not trying to rain on your cool looking work. You might want to change those lower arms a bit, just to avoid having any issues. Take it from someone who did something similar, and has felt the effect$.

Jeep looks great though. :)

I know, I will monitor it really close and have the parts ready and layout figured out. I stole this design from my buddy who is running 126to1 behind a tbi 350 and has not broken yet. Risky, but testing my luck I guess. You can all say I told you so when I destroy my junk, 'cause I wont hide the pics :flipoff2:

here is the rear all painted and ready for the brake lines. I got the dshaft in yesterday too.

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/14boltpaint01.jpg

This is within 1.5"s of full stuff, I had to cut out the rear crossmember to get full stuff:

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/squatter.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/squatter2.jpg

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/squatter3.jpg

Sweet!

Are you going to tie the cage into the frame at the rear? Or is it already done and I can't see it?

One thing I noticed on my rig is that the holes I cut in my hood were cut tight to the tubwork and shock. as the body flexes on drops and such it beats the living fuck out of the hood and shock.

I don't have my cage tied in though.

What is up with a front cover with no fill hole?

Correction, the rear cover.
Great multiple builds. Really liked the tube work!

Nate,

Are you going to have that thing done for the Rally?

Rattle Snake Canyon would be a great place to test it out!!!

Keep the shit coming...probably one of the best threads i've seen that relate to my rig.

Correction, the rear cover.
Great multiple builds. Really liked the tube work!


Funny you should ask with 14b in your sig. The fill is on the pass side of the housing.

Nate,

Are you going to have that thing done for the Rally?

Rattle Snake Canyon would be a great place to test it out!!!

I am in. I need my brake lines tonight and my exhaust the next couple nights, but I should be done this weekend.

nice biuld ,i am starting to do the same :smokin:

Whats..


"The RAlly" ??

http://id4x4a.com

Sweet!

Are you going to tie the cage into the frame at the rear? Or is it already done and I can't see it?

One thing I noticed on my rig is that the holes I cut in my hood were cut tight to the tubwork and shock. as the body flexes on drops and such it beats the living fuck out of the hood and shock.

I don't have my cage tied in though.



I absolutely had to tie the cage in to make the airshock mounts worthwhile. The cage is tied in at the A and C pillars.
http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/cagetiein01.jpg

The sliders tie in the front.
http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/cagetiein02.jpg

I made the sliders to step on and bounce the body over and square up the tire on the rocks as I slide over them. They work beyond great. (more pics coming)

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/sliders01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/sliders02.jpg

The gas tank is ratchet strapped to the floor with some cheap straps and a mudflap to keep it from moving or springing a leak. I cut slots in the floorboard for one side of the ratchet straps and bolted down some cable clamps for the other. Booty fabulous.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/gastank01.jpg

I really put in work the last two weeks to get the pile out for the annual Idaho Rally. Here are photos of the jeep on the trailer at 4 in the morning the day of the rally... just barely finished the corners, lights, rear tow points. etc...

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/rally08-01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/rally08-02.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/rally08-03.jpg

I made it out to the event and made it home. :flipoff2: :laughing:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeep6-15-08.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/sittingontrailer01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/sittingontrailer02.jpg

this thing was a beast on the trails

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2008_018.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2008_127.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/HPIM1835.JPG

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/HPIM1871.JPG

I even did the hard stuff

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/HPIM1803.JPG

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/2008_181.jpg

I needed to add hydro assist to the steering, so I dug into that project and then came across a set of 42s.

I decided to swap the tires and while they were apart to orange-up the rims:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/orangerim.jpg

The tires were in desperate need of grooving:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/groovy1.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/groovy.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/groovy2.jpg

I see she`s still growing :smokin:

Checking out the droop:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/droop.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/droop02.jpg

Checking out the stuff:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/fullbump01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/fullbump02.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/fullbump03.jpg

maybe you noticed already, but you can see the bump cans:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/fullbump04.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airbumps01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airbumps02.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airbumps01.jpg

Mean looking at full bump! :smokin:

...but pleeeease trim that front bump can mounting gusset so its flush with the top-o-the can.

Did you make those corners? They turned out super clean.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airbumps01.jpg

Mean looking at full bump! :smokin:

Very!

I may have missed it but what springs are you running up front? Any wheelbase adjustment?

I may have missed it but what springs are you running up front? Any wheelbase adjustment?

yes, they are waggy leafs and they have been pushed 8" forward. WB is at 108"

That is a really nasty angle for the pic on the airbump can. I will knock it down some though, thanks for the input.

Did you make those corners? They turned out super clean.

Corners were made here in Boise by Idaho Custom Iron Works, and I think they are the best. The style of his corners matched the trim job that I had done almost identical and we never discussed or measured a thing. Great minds think alike.

http://www.icironworks.com/
Reed has a white YJ too.

steering project involved a j20 box tapped for assist -

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/J20-01.jpg

larger piston -

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/J20-03.jpg

the differences between boxes took some work

adapted the inverted flare fittings and had to swap input shafts to match my steering shaft -

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/J20-02.jpg

My opinion is its not worth the effort to track down the mythical j20 box. Just use a standard box. I have read mixed reviews about the effects of the larger piston on ram assist, I will report back my experience.

Anything new over the winter?

this thread was so steady until it came to a screeching halt. updates!

this thread was so steady until it came to a screeching halt. updates!

Good call, here we go:


I got the 42s and the hydro assist installed. I started her up to purge the air from the steering system and after 15 minutes it shut off. I looked under the hood and found the wiring to my crank positioning sensor had melted to the header.
I sautered the connection back together but no go on getting the jeep started. I attacked a couple of other bad connections, but could not get it to kick over. The jeep sat dormant for 8 months.

While it sat not working, I tinkered with wires here and there but never really dug in hard. One day I painted the thing:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/paint-009.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/paint-011.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/paint-013.jpg

Two weeks ago I threw in the towell and had a local shop (which I strongly reccommend) help with my pathetic wiring.

It's alive, so I took it out to flex for clearance around the steering and the rear shocks with 42s:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeep-009.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeep-015.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeep-024.jpg

Frame to shock clearance was not good:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airshox-bend01.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/airshox-bend02.jpg

jeeps looking good. Definitely need to do something with the rear shocks. Is it just me or is it bending around the frame in that last pic?

Looks like it to me!

Yep that looks bent. that sucks

Shock was bending from clearance issues with the bump can mounts. I cut the cans back off the frame and I am working on a new setup for the bump cans. I took it to a local rock course and broke immediately.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/trussbreakage-009.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/trussbreakage-003.jpg

I have asked for help from a more competent welder and it is all back together.

Tie your truss into the pinion bolts.Will help keep it from twisting.

Good god!!!

You let Shane weld that huh!!! :flipoff2:

Good god!!!

You let Shane weld that huh!!! :flipoff2:

:laughing::laughing:
No, this was all me.
:laughing::laughing:

Spent $16 to paint the top:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeeptop-001.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeeptop-002.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeeptop-005.jpg

I will no longer look like the worlds biggest BSU fan, but I think that will be acceptable :flipoff2:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeeptop-006.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeeptop-008.jpg

I have a fairly unique steering setup, so I thought I would post some pics:

I mounted the ram off the diff cover to the driver high steer arm

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeepsteering-003.jpg


http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeepsteering-002.jpg

I really like the steering arms that I found, but have no idea who makes them. I got them used, so not aware of the vendor. I have my tierod behind the axle, above my pinion. I will watch the knuckles to keep my eye on any knuckle breakage from this setup.
http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/jeepsteering-001.jpg

They're nice looking arms,but usually that cap goes under the arm, and the tapers on the lugnuts fit into tapers on the arms,.

I will watch the knuckles to keep my eye on any knuckle breakage from this setup.


Good idea, my setup was a little different but similar enough to say keep an eye on it. I had the ram going to the high steer arm, and the tie rod in the stock location. It took a couple of years, but a crack formed. I ended up moving the ram to the tie rod and getting a new knuckle.

They're nice looking arms,but usually that cap goes under the arm, and the tapers on the lugnuts fit into tapers on the arms,.

There are lots of different arms out there and some do have it how you describe. These dont have that design, so I have to watch for them backing off. I used longer studs and a flush mount similar to the stock cap on the pass side, but with 1" spacer. I used the tapered nuts upside down, cause they came with the arp studs from Parts Mike.

I got the rear truss all welded back in place and added another gusset for good measure.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/trussweld-001.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/trussweld-002.jpg

I decided to increase the separation at the axle to help combat the leverage that the 42s have compared to the 38s, so got new lower brackets for the axle:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/linkparts-003.jpg

Welded the lower mounts to the tubes:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/4linkredo-002.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/4linkredo-004.jpg

Mocking up the frame end changed the degree of the link so much, that i had to move the frame brackets further apart:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/4linkredo-001.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/4linkredo-003.jpg

I pulled four late night wrench/fab fest evenings to get this loaded and ready for the trailride. Success!!!

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/DR_2030.jpg

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/60s/DR_2056.jpg

The jeep has been waiting for the right opportunity to show its head again. We have our annual Turkey run coming up in November and my goal is to get a shakedown run in prior to the 20th. Since my last outing, i have replaced the AW4 and installed an Atlas 4.3to1. I realllly wanted the options with the front axle and look forward to a couple of new tricks to include with my driving style.

TurkeyRunPoster2010.pdf (19 Megs) (http://natedavidson.com/images/TurkeyRunPoster2010.pdf)

Looks great Nate that Jeep has come a long way!!!!
Im working on a new YJ project should be done by spring -- maybe this time we can get together and do some wheelin!!!!!

had another trip out to run in the snow and found lots of heat gremlins. Trans overheated, motor overheated, moved trans cooler in front of the grill and wired an electric fan in order to keep playing.

Burnt the trans so bad, its time for yet another aw4. This is the last one.

Im positioning for a 6.0 and 4l60/400... next winter.

So, been dormant and wanted to bring this back.

note: I have a YJ with an AW4 in it from a 90's XJ.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/aw4_rlq.jpg

I have the electronically shifted kit to control which gear it is in and really love to use it in the rocks.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/brettmshifter.JPG

My jeep also has had really low tcase ratio at 4.0 to 1 or 4.3 to 1

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/tcaseshifterbracket1.JPG


I dont have a go fast gear in my jeep, its street speed or crawl speed, so I always wander in the High RPM's low tcase or Low RPMs high tcase and never really find the right gear for snow, mud sand. I am searching for the right combo for a future swap, but in the meantime I need to keep that transmission from cooking every trip out.

Last time out was a fire drill, literally

I got an auxillary electric fan mounted out front of the grill and moved the trans cooler out to the front of the grill to get by last trip, but it was ghetto fab and not a permanent fix.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/elec-fan.jpg

I also got a smaller electric fan to cool the trans cooler specifically and even got another plate cooler for my steering. The electric fan is a great match to both plate coolers.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/aux-fan.jpg


Big need for change here is where do I mount that big setup and still get air to it to cool it?

ruffstuff sale made me order a battery holder (among other things :shocked: ) so that I could move my battery and mount this cooler back underneath the battery.

http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/graphics/00000001/Battery%20box%205.jpg

So, time to redo the fender section at the firewall since they have been unfinished for about ten years.

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/dscf0609.jpg

Looking to increase clearance for the 42s and decided to make my own style of highline fenders.

Tape represents the guidelines:
http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/highline00.jpg

Had a piece of 1.5" in my garage for many years for this purpose, but never got around to it till friday night. This is sitting high:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/highline01.jpg

Got a little twist on the end to attach to the existing tube work:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/highline03.jpg

The final install will be welded to the front grillguard, angled the same as the hood and follow the taper of the hood. If all goes as planned, I'll be cutting the shape out of the hood that I taped off in the beginning:

http://highdesertoff-road.com/gripguru/photos/highline02.jpg

Cut the old fenders apart. Going to re-use the section that bolts to the fire wall and try to salvage the inner fender too.

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline05.jpg

Then got the rest of everything else out of the way:

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline04.jpg

Progress:

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline06.jpg

Making a solid place for the coolers, meh

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline08.jpg

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline07.jpg

more pics:

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline10.jpg

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline09.jpg

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline11.jpg

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline14.jpg

http://www.4x4lizard.com/gripguru/photos/highline15.jpg

Got the pass side all welded in and hood cut up

http://www.natedavidson.com/images/photos/highline17.jpg

http://www.natedavidson.com/images/photos/highline19.jpg

http://www.natedavidson.com/images/photos/highline20.jpg

Driver side is bent up too, just finishing layout for the support:

http://www.natedavidson.com/images/photos/highline16.jpg

http://www.natedavidson.com/images/photos/highline18.jpg

:D
http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/11.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/12.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/13.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/14.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/15.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/16.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/17.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/18.jpg

http://i1083.photobucket.com/albums/j391/cochraneric/30May11-Meat%20Grinder/19.jpg

Mine on my yj have exact same pattern
Ever seen this pattern before on trailreadys???

http://4x4lizard.com/gripguru/60s/trailreadys.jpg[/QUOTE]

And nice build looks good

And nice build looks good

Looks sweet. I like it. Kinda similar to mine, cept for the cj/yj part. How do you like the Meridian/Kuna area? My uncle lives just outside Kuna. Runs Gem State Oil Recovery. White tanker trucks with yellow and green? Anyways, keep it up. Sweet build.

himarker

The pics from above were memorial day, here is the video:

http://youtu.be/Gr40dUUIATA

and some more from the top of that trail:

http://youtu.be/Eqad3oacVd0

Played a little this weekend:

http://natedavidson.com/images/photos/DSC01676A.jpg

http://natedavidson.com/images/photos/DSC01641A.jpg

http://natedavidson.com/images/photos/DSC01667A.jpg

http://natedavidson.com/images/photos/DSC01669A.jpg

Best part of the day, my 7 y/o loved it:

http://natedavidson.com/images/photos/DSC01678A.jpg

My God those waggys flex like crazy. I can't tell, but how many leafs are they?

very nice work. gave me some great ideas for my project. just wondering if you would have changed anything on the rear suspension if you did it again?

My God those waggys flex like crazy. I can't tell, but how many leafs are they?

I run whatever set I can get my hands on, junkyards and classifieds, I bend the main leafs every trip out. This last set, I put a couple of clamps on both sides to let them spread about an inch, but no farther. They survived that day with minimal damage, so I will recommend that to anyone. (i'll get a pic up too)

very nice work. gave me some great ideas for my project. just wondering if you would have changed anything on the rear suspension if you did it again?

The only difference I need to finish is getting the airbumps down further to keep the tires off the body.

I run whatever set I can get my hands on, junkyards and classifieds, I bend the main leafs every trip out. This last set, I put a couple of clamps on both sides to let them spread about an inch, but no farther. They survived that day with minimal damage, so I will recommend that to anyone. (i'll get a pic up too)

Danke Schon. Trying to find some used, or deciding to buy 44044's.

My God those waggys flex like crazy. I can't tell, but how many leafs are they?

http://natedavidson.com/images/photos/DSC01665A.jpg

http://natedavidson.com/images/photos/DSC01664A.jpg

I use the full 16" travel on the FOA shocks

My God those waggys flex like crazy. I can't tell, but how many leafs are they?

got some pics for you!

:flipoff2:

http://natedavidson.com/images/60s/leaftaco.jpg

got some pics for you!

:flipoff2:


My XJ spring did that like 2nd trip out :D I had to put my hi-lift ontop of another guys spare tire to get up high enough to flip the shackle back around.