Hey, first post here, I'm a NOOB to this site.

If you ride sleds, you likely know my wife & I, but I usually ride Downhill bikes in the summer, all 9 weeks of it here by the divide (feel more comfy with my hands on bars than a wheel:D).

I live less than 5 min from more trailheads than I can count, and there's hundreds of miles of trail up above me or on the other side of the canyon, I wanted a toy to go check out more of the areas around me.

I've been beating the hell out of my Cummins around here so I recently bought an H3, and looking for some basic ideas to make it more trail worthy.

Right now it's a stock base model, city boy rims w/ 33's, K&N intake, and dual exh. were on it when I bought it. I've got some basic steels & 35" guard dogs coming (been running treadwright tires for 250,000+ miles & way before they were called treadwright, not gonna stop now) and wanting to know some reasonably priced mods that can be done.

I'm not looking to do a build like Bebe's... a TOUCH outside my price range:eek:, and also impractical for me as I spend 9+ months of the year on sleds which I spend WAY too much money on as it is, I pretty much want to find a happy medium of solid performance for low cost. (can't say that such a thing exists in the sled world... so I'm probably barking up the wrong tree in this game too!! :D)

Any help is appreciated!

btw, a shot from Saxon mtn yesterday above town, already having a blast with this thing.


I live in the best place in the world IMO... needed to get a toy that could let me see more of it!
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/283976_1914358140725_1295088056_31700656_5242766_n .jpg

Nice first post!

If you have the base model it means you don't have the 4:1 low range case or lockers. No biggie for what you do.

The rear axle is an AAM 860 (the biggest of the corporate 10 bolts, same size as a Dana 44). The front is an AAM760 IFS and is Aluminum.

Must haves:

skid plate protection
Sliders
Torsion Bar lift
35's

Optional:

Limited slip rear (Detroit)
Lockers front and rear (ARB)

If you are going to start rock crawling:

4:1 case
Cast Iron front diff housing

Thanks for the reply Bebe, good info.

Got skids, forgot to mention. Rear diff isn't protected though, thinking I should get something for that?

Torsion lift is happening on Thursday, I do worry about visibility though, as the hood is already a tad high, easy enough to reverse though, if it is a bigger problem than expected.

Seeing how easy pulling the doors is, that will be happening before we go play next time, wish someone was making tube doors for them, though I don't feel they're "needed" I think they'd be nice to have. I'm only 5'8 & visibility was my ONLY complaint with going over Saxon yesterday.

Any recommendations for slider mfg?

I SAY that I just want a basic trail rig, but I do remember saying similar things about sledding years ago... and THAT turned out to be total BS:shaking:... so why would this be any different???(if you're a crackhead, you're a crackhead.. whatever sport it is!) Considering how many buggies I see go past my place, I don't think it will be too long before I want more, maybe it will be with this rig, maybe not, so far it seems very capable though.

Thanks for the reply Bebe, good info.

Got skids, forgot to mention. Rear diff isn't protected though, thinking I should get something for that?

Meh - not necessary.

Torsion lift is happening on Thursday, I do worry about visibility though, as the hood is already a tad high, easy enough to reverse though, if it is a bigger problem than expected.

Don't go over the 24.25" from center of hub to base of fender. You will get used to it, you just have to spot yourself a few feet further.

Most people end up somewhere between 23.25" and 23.75" don't forget to get an alignment.

Seeing how easy pulling the doors is, that will be happening before we go play next time, wish someone was making tube doors for them, though I don't feel they're "needed" I think they'd be nice to have. I'm only 5'8 & visibility was my ONLY complaint with going over Saxon yesterday.

tube doors - I'm looking but think I will end up with half doors. No one makes them that I know of.

Couple of other things:

Self recovery items if you are out there on your own

Wheeling IFS tips:

Drive on top of the rocks don't try to dodge them or sqeeze between them.
Do not try drive up a large rock with your wheels turned, always drive up the face with your wheels straight and THEN turn. (this will save your TRE's and 1/2 shafts)

Learn how to BTM (Brake Throttle Modulation) this will save your drivetrain.

Any recommendations for slider mfg?

Best beefy slider -
Ridgedemon.com

Budget step slider -
Rocky road

GM has an OEM that's a great slider, just not sure about availability. Do not use Manik, Real Wheels or anything else for that matter.


That's about as basic as I can get :D

Good call on the alignment, I actually should schedule that right away!

The IFS is gonna be different, never had anything with IFS offroad before, aside from some long travel subies.


I'm lucky enough to have good friends with some very serious machines & lots of time in, so hoping to pick their brains on best things to keep around for self recovery, I spend a lot of time in the Backcountry, and having what I need to get back OUT is a pretty big deal to me.

Wheel spin is a killer in these rigs...too heavy for the components to survive wheel spin. (full time 4wd is also different)

Don't let anyone tell you to bump it or hit it harder. It's not like wheeling an SA.

Crawl it - or strap it.

Trail spares:
16 mm Tie rod
Half Shaft - now available at NAPA

That's about it.

Tools
BIG Crescent wrench for Tie rods
35mm socket and breaker bar for 1/2 shafts

Have fun - post pics. :)

Have fun - post pics. :)

Well... if there's two things you can count on... those would be them!:D

In the winter I spend most of my time shooting footage of my wife,

this kind of thing...
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/69833_1642472551521_1528073247_31554978_4569475_n. jpg

So in the summer she can hop out & get some shots!!
So... you think I could take the H3 off any sweet jumps??????:shaking:

Thanks for the help!

Got a friend telling me I'll be too under powered with 35's without the lower gears around here.

Keep in mind we live at 9k & wheel at 9-13k around here... do you think I should be more worried about that? It felt great with 33's as long as I was in low, but not sure how big a difference that 3% really makes in how it feels.

It's an absolute turd on the road driving to work (tunnel is at 11k) but it felt pretty good off road.


If I were too underpowered, what kind of money would I need to dump to get gears back in line?

Bebe has you pretty much covered on everything up to the last post and she is right on the money with everything. As far as 35s and power, maybe I missed it but what year do you have. You will notice a difference when going to 35s but there are a lot of people running around that have the I-5 running 35s that won't look back. You are already at the max (4.56) as far as gearing for the front diff so you don't really have any options (apart from more serious mods) for a gear change. Probably the best investment power wise you can do is probably the PCM4Less tune. Not sure but they might even be able to tweak the tune for your elevation as well.

Probably the best investment power wise you can do is probably the PCM4Less tune. Not sure but they might even be able to tweak the tune for your elevation as well.

Or Wayne Hartwig on this board, thanks Mark - I didn't even think about the 35' in the elevation. Definitely going to make a difference, especially with out the low range case.

I have been over the pass a few times in my H3 when I was running 35 in my 3.5 I5. I was in second and third just trying to keep up. But it did it!!

A tune is the only option you have, a gear change in the front would require a Dana 44 like mine. Wayne will do a great custom tune for you, and he's quick, and close (Spokane).

Here is Wayne's Thread:

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=924402

I'm an 07, I'll have to check out those guys, power is definitely an issue, but not that big a deal, never hurts to have more though!

If they can make it work better up here, that would be ideal.

I just hesitate a bit when local guys are telling me to hold off... but they're driving a very different vehicle.

Guess I can always sell them & go back if I needed to.

As for gears... it doesn't go over the pass often, so not TOO worried about the highway side of things. If you think it will be good enough in 4L... I'll be ok. The only gear change I'd want to do is change the transfer case gearing to 4.10 instead of the 2.64.

I'll shoot Wayne a message, I'd like to see how it would compare. Just did the math, and at the top of the areas around here I'm sitting at 153 hp... OUCH! I think I see a hairdryer under the hood on this thing soon! :D

07 makes you a 3.7 liter? Mark? You had one before your Alpha?

07 makes you a 3.7 liter? Mark? You had one before your Alpha?
I had an '06 like yours but never ran 35s on it. As I recall there was a noticeable different when I would drive an '07 as a dealer loaner. Has Neo ever said anything to you about how it seems on his trips to CO? You should also be a pretty good judge based on years of running 35s on yours before the big build.

I just hesitate a bit when local guys are telling me to hold off... but they're driving a very different vehicle.
I wouldn't worry too much about what people say that have never driven one. They are probably just basing it on what they have read online about the H3 being under powered.

If you think it will be good enough in 4L... I'll be ok.
You will have no issues what so ever in 4 Lo.

He can definitely get your HP up, and change the shift points. Mine runs like glass up Donner Summit - it's about a 7000 ft climb from Auburn to Truckee.

With Wayne's tune, 5:13's and 38's, I spend time in second when I need it, but it doesn't hunt at all anymore.

Good to hear, and you had me nervous about the 2nd gear comment... but you mean auto, I'm a 5 spd, so I've got "custom shift points" right now :D and yes, the 3.7, 239 hp claimed.


Understood about the people without seat time, it's easy to speculate when you don't own one & have never driven one. That's why forums are great, the ability to find people who REALLY have done what you're looking to do!(ok, and a bunch of BS as well too usually... seen a few threads on here over the years, looks to be a lively place!)

Found a set of pro comp 98's (4 of the 5) 1/2 hr away, and ordering tires tomorrow.

Stoked to see how this feels with more rubber & lower PSI. I didn't air down the other day, just to see how it would feel stock.

You mentioned that it's a base model but has 33s. Are you sure it's a base model, they came with 32s. Of course the previous owner could have gone up in tire size but with what did you call them, city boy rims :D or something like that going up in tire size would seem counter productive. Do you have a rear locker? Button to the right of the transfer case controls which would have a symbol of the front and rear axles with an X over the rear did.

Yeah,city boy rims:p, the fake bead lockers just don't do it for me.

I've taken enough harassment for just buying a hummer, I've got to tone down the "bling" a tad... cause I'm NOT :mr-t: (although that IS what all the kinds at my wife's school do call me (wife is Mrs T)... hmmm...)

This is what I've got:
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/283462_1908526154929_1295088056_31691949_6442231_n .jpg

and getting replaced with:

http://www.procompusa.com/aux_incl/images.ashx?i=%2fimages%2fproducts%2fPCW%2fRockCra wler98series.jpg&w=400

covered in:

https://www.treadwright.com/images/Product/medium/79.jpg

The stock 32 with stock rim is on back (it'll be for sale in a couple days... you know you want one! :D)... and, sadly for me, no lockers.

...(it'll be for sale in a couple days... you know you want one! :D)...
I got enough stock H3 rims laying around I don't need anymore plus an extra set of dual headlocks :p :D

You mentioned running without the doors, we have a member on our forum in Denver that just posted picks of his black H3 without doors, will be heading up into the mountains this weekend that way :smokin:

You have "x-tra" Hutchinsons???? :flipoff2:

I need a spare!

You have "x-tra" Hutchinsons???? :flipoff2:

I need a spare!
Sorry, I have a long list of people that won't them. I know as soon as I let one or all of them go I will need them :eek:

Ahhh OK, just thought I'd ask :smokin:

Of course if I decide to let any go you will be the first person I call...but don't let anybody know that :D

Cool :smokin:

Hey BCL - I'm sure you are on top of it, but be very careful using a non OEM wheel. Make sure you have the right offset so you don't eat up unit bearings. Too wide puts too much force on the bearings.

This is what I was planning on using, any reason that won't fly?

http://www.procompusa.com/prodDetail.aspx?partNo=PCW98-7873F&catID=11&subCat=209&ptID=100021&plID=101830

These have 4.25 backspacing, I slapped a tape on the current rims & if anything they look deeper (they are wider also), but of course it's tough to get a clean measure on the truck.

We have had a number of discussions on the back spacing of the stock rim but it always slips my mind. Don't put too much faith on what your current rims BS is as the previous owner might not have worried about it.

Backspace on the H3 is supposed to be 5.75" max, not sure how much tire choice comes into play here, but I"m running 315/70/17's, which will stick past the fender a ways by the look of it...

The more important measurement is the 0" offset.

If they are 5.25" backspace and 7.5 " width, you'll be close. I ran OEM wheels with 315 75/R16's and now 365 75/R16's on the OEM Hutchinsons.

They're an 8" rim with 4.25 backspace (pro comp doesn't give offset figures)... so if anything I'd think I'd be out more than I'd prefer (around here narrow is important) but I'd still be narrower than those 365's!

I was just thinking about this, wouldn't required offset change with the width of rims & also the tire width?

Trying to stay as narrow as possible, but just freakin clueless about how far out I need to stay. I hear a number of people say that 315/70/17 should be fine, but thinking about it, that would be subjective to rim choice also.

I was just thinking about this, wouldn't required offset change with the width of rims & also the tire width?

Trying to stay as narrow as possible, but just freakin clueless about how far out I need to stay. I hear a number of people say that 315/70/17 should be fine, but thinking about it, that would be subjective to rim choice also.

Eggggsactly :grinpimp: Offset is affected by both rim width and tire width.

Thanks for the help! Sold the other vehicle last night, so wheels & tires are getting ordered today. (promised I wouldn't spend more on the toy before we sold the other one!)

To give an idea where I play...

Bebe... you said "take pics":D never my weak suit, my wife & I are both photographers.

Yesterday

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293425_2277703151889_1528073247_32445917_6250613_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/185528_2277626389970_1528073247_32445768_6052739_n .jpg

13,000 foot traffic jam.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/295688_1927425427399_1295088056_31716068_2667171_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/292336_2277700671827_1528073247_32445910_4977758_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263283_1927422547327_1295088056_31716059_6118038_n .jpg

One of the reasons it's fun to have a toy... to get to places like this to shoot
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/295648_1927417267195_1295088056_31716043_5954593_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/292058_1927414387123_1295088056_31716035_5484534_n .jpg

Today wasn't the most photogenic day, but this is where we stopped to have breakfast. 5 14000+ ft peaks in the background from Lincoln on left to Quandry on right.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/185552_1927422747332_1295088056_31716060_1232498_n .jpg

So far it's treating us well... I love my back yard... and being able to see more of it in the summer!!

Just thought I'd say Hi. Nice to see some fellow Snowest PW on here.

Just thought I'd say Hi. Nice to see some fellow Snowest PW on here.

Good to see you here... I know there's a few of us on here... figured I'd run across some of y'all eventually!

If I was willing to spend what I do on my sled... on my H3... I'd have a pretty sweet toy!!

You definitely need to come to Black Sheep Week in October! We wiil be in Moab for an entire week October 8-15th.

October... I think MAYBE I could handle the temps in Moab by October!!! (MAYBE)

As long as we're not sledding again by then (a week into October is borderline, some years we're riding good snow near here ) I think we'll head over that way, sounds like fun.

Looks like I should get some sliders by then!! (good excuse right???:D)

hey, once you lose the TPMS, do you need to do some reprogram to get the sensor to shut off? Didn't even notice it had it until I aired down & got the warning... and not sure what happens when you get rid of it all together.

hey, once you lose the TPMS, do you need to do some reprogram to get the sensor to shut off? Didn't even notice it had it until I aired down & got the warning... and not sure what happens when you get rid of it all together.

No way to do it. I hit the ODO button once when I start the truck and that shuts it up. But you have to do it every time.

No way to do it. I hit the ODO button once when I start the truck and that shuts it up. But you have to do it every time.
I don't even bother and have learned to ignore it. Of course every once in a while I am concerned that something is wrong because the sensors are actually reading an no error message :D

Do your's ever work Bebe?

Not since I put the Hutchinson on. When we put the 38's on I just tossed them, they were trashed.

Cool... I'm fine with 4 less silly gadgets on ANY machine!!!!

Not since I put the Hutchinson on.
Even with the Hutchinsons mine read from time to time. Have actually gone a couple of days straight without any warnings before. Am surprised your never worked with the Hutchinsons since until you went to 38s we had the same wheel/tire combo. I won't bother with them when it's time for new tires.

October... I think MAYBE I could handle the temps in Moab by October!!! (MAYBE)

Dood - your Hummer has an A/C button :p

Dood - your Hummer has an A/C button :p

But I still need to breathe AFTER I get out!!! I max out at about 88 or so... can't do much hotter than that!!

Plus... next time I go out, the doors are coming off. Visibility is my biggest issue with this thing, and that will help a ton!!

Half Shaft - now available at NAPA



No NAPA in the Portland area can even order these :( They have them listed in the their system with no availability (or even backorder). Suck!

Beautiful country! I'll gladly drive out and deliver you some bumpers in person if you give me a tour of your back yard...

www.THORparts.com

Beautiful country! I'll gladly drive out and deliver you some bumpers in person if you give me a tour of your back yard...

www.THORparts.com

I think I might have to take you up on that!! Gonna be needing one soon!!



So, went to put the wheels on today, according to everything I could find I should have been fine, I've got proper offset, less than max backspacing, and they won't fit past the rotors.

so... got 5 useless rims here, only way to make them work is spacers... and not too fond of that idea.

Pretty crappy that there's not a better resource for what REALLY is compatible with this thing... I couldn't find anything that told me they wouldn't work... crap.

so how bad are wheel spacers anyhow? is it worth going through the hassle of returning them & getting different rims? The wheels aren't mounted, we checked first.

Are you sure they sent you the right size wheel? Are they 16"s?

17"x8" 6 bolt, 5.5, 4.5 backspace. 20mm offset. pro comp series 98

I can't tell what to use that will actually work...

THey also make a different version in 3.75 & 2.5" backspacing, but I REALLY don't want a wider stance if I can avoid it. Not looking for a race car, If I could get narrower than I am right now I already would, so I'm really hesitant to go with one of these others.

Where is it hitting? Rotor? Caliper? Center Bore?

my tire guy is saying it's hitting the rotor, but I'm betting he means the top of caliper. I went to get it back last night, but the wheels were locked up inside (no safe place to leave them outside after they closed) so I'll have to see if I can pick them up this AM & get a feel for where I need to be. If it's 1/4-1/2" perhaps a slip over spacer would be doable, but any more & I'd need bolt on types & I'd prefer to avoid them.

I found it odd that the rotors that fit inside a 16" wheel were hitting on a 17... but the build of alloys & steels of course is different in inside shape, so I shouldn't have been so surprised. Only issue is I just don't know what to look for now, as obviously the basic requirements aren't my only limitation, and every company that sells h3 wheels that I can find, that guarantees fit, only sells alloys which I do not want.

I can return them to 4 wheel parts in Denver (ugh... driving to the city:flipoff2:) but I want to know what to try to find when I go down there!

they do have this unit http://www.4wheelparts.com/Wheels/Series-98-Rock-Crawler-Gloss-Black-Monster-Mod-Wheel-by-Pro-Comp.aspx?t_c=11&t_s=209&t_pt=100021&t_pl=100348&t_pn=PCW98-7983MS3.5 with less backspacing by 1", but it's a 17x9... and I'd prefer to stick with 8", but not the end of the world.

Dont have any help, but those pics are awesome. Makes me hate florida even more

Dont have any help, but those pics are awesome. Makes me hate florida even more

Well... I had to wear a jacket this morning... does that make you feel ANY better?

Of course, I went above 12k twice today, drove about 1/2 mile down a creek, and got the "new" off of the H3 FOR GOOD!! So much for selling these rims though... they're beat to heck now!

another horrible day in CO...

Spent about 1/2 mile in a creek today... crazy trail.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/305122_2296419139777_1528073247_32470654_5211067_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/309547_2296419859795_1528073247_32470655_3236491_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/310603_2296427139977_1528073247_32470663_7393465_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/299360_2296500421809_1528073247_32470750_1396707_n .jpg


Too busy trying not to beat the body up too much in the harder stuff to get pics, sorry!!


treeline, about 15-20 feet of snow in the middle of that patch...
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/320809_2296417779743_1528073247_32470653_7424582_n .jpg

A lake one ridgeline behind my place, never been here in the summer before.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/291914_2296416219704_1528073247_32470650_4922300_n .jpg

Is that Bill Moore Lake?

The one in the last pic is Loch Lomond, if you panned to the left Bill Moore would be a ridge over. I live in the drainage of Bill Moore lake.

The creek coming out of BM is Mill creek, I live up that creek about a mile from the confluence with Clear Creek.

http://www.traildamage.com/trails/red_elephant_hill/maps/map_big.gif

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/21940_1211854698578_1295088056_30504229_1837359_n. jpg

My place with Mill creek drainage in the background, about 3.5 miles down from BM lake.

The worst thing... not knowing where to go each weekend... we sat at the table after breakfast trying to figure out where, out of the 10 different places we wanted to go, to hit today. I think we chose well! Some stress today, some of the harder sections were a tad beefy for us & the stockish Cherokee we went with, but it was a great day & I only left a small amount of Aluminum & steel on the trail!!:D

I've done the trail to Bill Moore Lake and I've done Red Cone. I just wish I could find the pics :shaking:

I love Colorado :)

I've done the trail to Bill Moore Lake and I've done Red Cone. I just wish I could find the pics :shaking:

I love Colorado :)

well... next time you're around my yard, shoot me a PM! I won't be rockin a machine anything near as capable as yours, but I'll gladly show you what I can!



Btw... any ideas on the rims? I'm friggin lost on where to go here! (and losing aluminum fast!!!:shaking:)

Yep - get something other than ProComp. They work on a lot of different types of rigs, they just don't seem to work on Hummers.

Check w/4WP and see if they have a reference of wheels that they sell with the Rancho lift kit.

That might help.

It's funny you mention aluminum, I know a bunch of folks who are getting rid of steel in favor of.

They do sell wheel/rim rings to protect the bead edge. Steel is heavy and it bends. There are pro's and con's to both.

Allied make an awesome beadlock with protection - they also make a steel version.

Check out the Rock monster site.

Makes me hate florida even more
You and me both :(

It's funny you mention aluminum, I know a bunch of folks who are getting rid of steel in favor of.

They do sell wheel/rim rings to protect the bead edge. Steel is heavy and it bends. There are pro's and con's to both.

Allied make an awesome beadlock with protection - they also make a steel version.

Check out the Rock monster site.

Holy cow... I may live in the mtns... but this isn't my 2nd home!!! I'm a broke barstid... no $200+ rims for me, it costs a fortune to live here & we don't make SQUAT!!!

The $90 was a BIG factor as to why I wanted them, but it looks like I can get the H3T ones for $115, so that's an option, and would keep me narrower as well. (just checked them out... after shipping... no way, over 140 each)

I know I'll end up trashing wheels, already beat the heck out of these, so the cheaper replacement cost, and the ability to bend steel back out if you dent it is a factor for me as well.


How big a factor is the weight though? Is it something that would be noticeable on road or trail?

The only thing that notices is your unit bearing - Aluminum s definitely lighter.

ok... not sure how the HE!! I lived without wheeling...

We were doing to go climbing this evening, but it was pretty hot (81) so we went up to our rental, tossed in a dishwasher & some other repairs we needed to do for new renters, then went up a trail by the condo.

Bard Creek, outside of Empire (Mt democrat & republican in background)
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/302723_1946883273833_1295088056_31737797_4950771_n .jpg

Hwy 40, just above the condo, heading up to Berthoud pass (radio building on top of peak is above the pass)
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/307403_1946883473838_1295088056_31737798_6261324_n .jpg

This is looking over at N. Empire, the trail that takes you to Bill Moore Lake
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/296638_1946883073828_1295088056_31737796_862628_n. jpg

Saxon Mtn trail (trail in my profile pic)
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/301123_1946885513889_1295088056_31737810_2643575_n .jpg

Cool place on the way up.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/311603_1946886793921_1295088056_31737815_8162336_n .jpg

Cool chitter.... cause they aren't HIGH enough being at 11k or so that they had to put it up a couple more feet!!!
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/301728_1946887113929_1295088056_31737816_1462251_n .jpg

so, got the 35's on, seems like I need to do the torsion lift ASAP to avoid downhill wheel rub.

Needed 1/4" slip on spacers to make the pro comps work, on the front only. Should I put them on the rear to "even" it out even though I don't need them?

I only gained 1/8" in width from the XD rims on the back (with 285's), which is pretty cool , gained 3/8 in front.

I feel much better driving it now, it looks SLIGHTLY more redneck....:shaking:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/321115_1966024152343_1295088056_31760415_916869_n. jpg

I like it! 2" lift coming next week I think, working on the mount for the hi lift tomorrow, thinking of putting it on the roof, attached to the rack rails, see any issues with that? Could I run it up one side, or would I need to go across the back from side to side?

Hitting some bigger terrain on sunday... we'll see what I break!!! (found out I have a warranty... sweet!)

Yep just crank your t-bars - you don't need anything else. Send it back or cancel it.

hi-lift on the luggage bars are fine.

As long as you don't feel any "scrub" when you turn - 1/8 is fine - you don't need to put spacers on the rear (the front is typically wider anyway OEM)

Looks GREAT!!

Brought the front up 3/4", mounted the lift on the rack, then went out with a buddy by his house, good times!!!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/310320_1968221807283_1295088056_31762620_4617712_n .jpg

btw, to mount the jack to the roof rail, a 1/2" 3.5 long carriage bolt, 5 1/2" nuts, one 5/8 washer, and two 1/2" washers worked great, and it comes off using the 4 way lug wrench.

unfortunately, THIS

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/308884_1968222287295_1295088056_31762622_1417895_n .jpg

Didn't go so well!

there was a little bit of this...
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/319941_1968222887310_1295088056_31762624_6110770_n .jpg

then some of this... (didn't expect to get to use the jack the first day!)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/292856_1968223767332_1295088056_31762626_1866411_n .jpg

he slipped off his front driveshaft splines.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/321265_1968224367347_1295088056_31762628_8205396_n .jpg

and out a pretty nasty dent in his driveshaft

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/316870_1968224807358_1295088056_31762629_1317273_n .jpg
It was WAY out of true anyhow, so this was just a reminder to get a new one welded up.

Messing around by his house...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/317587_1968218327196_1295088056_31762611_6010959_n .jpg

Good day all in all, truck did GREAT, same climb I did last friday was way easier, I just need more articulation now, seems like finding swaybar disconnects for these is about as easy as tube doors... WTF happened to offroad escape? Looks like they made some great products!!!


Btw, why not do a lift? I'm not wanting to be sky high, but I thought that an extra 2" (already don't like the loss of the rake) would be a nice addition?

Another killer day out there!!!

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/302783_1970137335170_1295088056_31764549_608481_n. jpg

Then we ran across some kids with mom's burban WAY up top with a flat.

No biggie... till they spun the stud! couldn't get the wheel off, had tu run it on the flat... which got REAL interesting!!

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/310288_1970135455123_1295088056_31764541_3815305_n .jpg

by this point the tire had fallen off.... rim only.

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/320978_1970138975211_1295088056_31764557_451365_n. jpg

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/307853_1970139295219_1295088056_31764559_3858199_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/313413_1970140175241_1295088056_31764563_479552_n. jpg

(sorry, wife shooting my camera...got a bit blurry)
https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296428_1970141375271_1295088056_31764569_293164_n. jpg


they left a track all the way down... it was great!!!
https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/298858_1970142175291_1295088056_31764573_5127928_n .jpg

got a small O-A torch at home, maybe I'll make a point of bringing it from now on.

Btw, why not do a lift? I'm not wanting to be sky high, but I thought that an extra 2" (already don't like the loss of the rake) would be a nice addition?

Typically a 2" lift is a torsion key lift. The aftermarket keys are pretty cheap and there is a lot of debate as to whether or not they are needed. Often you can simply adjust the torsion keys that far.

Typically a 2" lift is a torsion key lift. The aftermarket keys are pretty cheap and there is a lot of debate as to whether or not they are needed. Often you can simply adjust the torsion keys that far.

but if I did an add a leaf in the back (even assuming I left the front off), I'd get my rake back & have better visibility again... or am I off on that?

"seems like finding swaybar disconnects for these is about as easy as tube doors..."

JKS-QUICKER DISCONNECTS FOR WJ #3100 fit right out of the box...

http://i180.photobucket.com/albums/x183/trailerpup/IMG_1150.jpg

TP... thanks, saw those in another thread, they look like a good answer, I assume that the ABS line extensions that offroad escape had in their kit weren't really needed as long as you just disconnect them from the fenderwell?

I'm gonna pull off the swaybar links in the AM (and pop those off), hoping that I'm issue free. Gonna tie them up with a bungee cord for the day, should work I hope! Hitting some bigger stuff tomorrow, hoping some more articulation will help me out a bit!

but if I did an add a leaf in the back (even assuming I left the front off), I'd get my rake back & have better visibility again... or am I off on that?

Just an FYI, an aal is typically detrimental to flex. I'd think about a rear shackle first.

wow... could have used more of SOMETHING today!!! took a frikin BEEETIN.

did spring creek trail (rating 8/10) and took 90% of the main lines, I spent way too much time on my skidplates either high centered or slamming my front leaf spring mount points. (saw some skids for them... that's the next item on the list). I left metal all the way up all the hard features!!

I was definitely the lowest vehicle there, no question. Most of them had 6" minimum on me!

Had a blast, but found out how much harder some of the stuff by me can get (this is the hardest trail for a ways around here) good times!

As to the shackles/ aal... I feel like it's a bit soft as it is, I was thinking that the AAL would be a help. I'm not as worried about flex as I am, simply being able to get up stuff that's bigger. Some of the ledges/ rocks today were 2' or so, and I kept hanging my suspension on them when I was on line, where nobody else was. (I WAS the most stock machine that kept going after the 2nd obstacle) Traction isn't as big an issue for me as simple clearance, most of what I'm on is rock, very little dirt.

You should check out Bebe's spring over mod in the back. Those front leaf spring mounting points are a major PITA. Hunner makes some great skids for them and believe he just did another run. Got a set myself sitting in the garage, just need to get them welded on.

You should check out Bebe's spring over mod in the back. Those front leaf spring mounting points are a major PITA. Hunner makes some great skids for them and believe he just did another run. Got a set myself sitting in the garage, just need to get them welded on.

Those are the ones I was thinking of, looks like a VERY needed add to me!!! Thanks Mark.

I saw the ones that you mention, but also saw another one he makes & didn't catch what it was for.

Need a better one for my t-case... bent the current peice of tin foil up good!!!


Looking to switch to the lower ratio also, looks like you can find the adv. model t-case on ebay for about 650, but I can't find gears anywhere... would it just be a direct swap to put the 4.1 version in instead of swapping gears?

The higher gear ratio was a significant issue this weekend... man, this is gonna be my typical situation... gonna take it easy, yeah right.:shaking:

The gears are in the case. Swap the case, swap the gears.

You may have to reprogram the ecu depending on how the abs, speed sensor and traction control work.

The gears are in the case. Swap the case, swap the gears.

You may have to reprogram the ecu depending on how the abs, speed sensor and traction control work.

oh yeah, was just wondering if it made more sense to swap the WHOLE case (buy another one) or if there's a decent source for JUST gears to slap in my case. Got a buddy that just did his yota for $200... so was hoping I could find gears instead of the whole case. (also never quite know how an ebay deal is gonna go)

Also noticing the ones on ebay are ALL 06 versions, which I think were a 3.75? If I'm gonna do it, might as well go to the lowest I can, I can always use a higher gear! Seems like new gears make the most sense, I just can't find them.

Love your enthusiasm. Nice looking H3 I dnt post much here. I am on Hummer4x4Offroad alot but wanted to compliment your rig. As for the rear you can do shackles or spring over. Add a leaf is an option too but id rather do a shackle. Other then that your onto a rancho lift. H3s are very capable in stockish form. I run with jeeps that are locked front and rear 6in lift 35s or more and I can run with them on just a tbar crank which is amazing but clearance is my biggest issue. Id like to do what Bebe does but don't have the skill yet but id keep wheeling if height is still an issue look for a rancho lift. Seeing your not an adv package. I would look for an extra case so you have a spare. The BW cases are tough but its always nice to have one in the garage so you dnt have down time if something breaks

Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk

The other skids he makes that you saw were for the rear shocks and definitely help there as well. I went with a different set but they are few and far between so not likely to find any and Hunner's are great.

I would suspect that you will have to reprogram if you swap the t-case. Not sure about finding the gears to do a swap but guessing they have to be out there somewhere. As far as the units on ebay being from '06, not an issue other than they are now 5 or 6 years old. As far as I am aware there have been no changes to the t-case through the model years. They only gearing change that I am aware for is the fact that Alphas come with 4.10 gears in the axles versus 4.56 in all other models.

The H3 actually shocks a lot of people in what it can do in stock form. I have a lot of mods on my truck but most are protection or accessories such as winch and Gobi rack. The only mod that truly helps get me where a bone stock H3 can't go are running 35s, no lift, so I consider mind stockish. That being said I wheel with everything from completely stock rigs to some all out build rigs. Of course I am not going to be able to follow the all out built rigs but running with the average wheeling rig they are normally surprised what the H3 can do and the only things that usually prevent me from doing everything they can do is clearance and just plain not willing to risk the damage. More often than not they are obstacles that the truck can actually do but I don't attempt due to the risks. As time goes by that will change though :D

Can't find the spring over mod that you mention, tried here & alcova, and get nothing (well, don't get what I assume I'm looking for)

Not understanding how the t-case would be an issue for the ECU, the primary running gears are the same (right?), the only place where it would be different would be in 4L... and no stabilization in 4L... also I'm a manual, so no tranny issues.

Planning on sending it (ECU) to wayne hartwig, so it wouldn't be the end of the world though.

btw, some shots from spring creek... (no good shots of me getting my arse handed to me though, sorry!!)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/316808_1974726569898_1295088056_31770943_3434189_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/311248_1974731130012_1295088056_31770964_1167767_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311803_1974729529972_1295088056_31770954_4119949_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293578_1974737690176_1295088056_31770976_7697595_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/293213_1974738970208_1295088056_31770978_5958918_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293593_1974743410319_1295088056_31770988_3988543_n .jpg

First high center.

Bent the t-case tin foil... gotta replace that with something decent.
https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/298373_1974746450395_1295088056_31770994_2650341_n .jpg
(started the day with 2 doors off, but gained 2 passengers when my buddy's yota had issues, so pulled one back door since you can't roll other windows down once the driver door is gone)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/317278_1974750890506_1295088056_31771005_8109790_n .jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/298803_1974751810529_1295088056_31771007_8338764_n .jpg

this was the only other guy along who was somewhat close to stock.

https://fbcdn-photos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296373_1974735650125_1295088056_31770972_5191448_n .jpg

Can't find the spring over mod that you mention, tried here & alcova, and get nothing (well, don't get what I assume I'm looking for)
OMG Elcova, that's where a lot of us originally met years ago. Didn't know it was still around.

Bebe has a very long thread (but well worth the read) over on HXC about it. Search SOA Conversion with Author HummBebe and it should come right up.

Not understanding how the t-case would be an issue for the ECU, the primary running gears are the same (right?), the only place where it would be different would be in 4L... and no stabilization in 4L... also I'm a manual, so no tranny issues.

It might not but with all the info the computer collects to control everything I wouldn't be surprised if it does need programming.

I have it here too:

H3 Spring over (http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=759279)

TP... thanks, saw those in another thread, they look like a good answer, I assume that the ABS line extensions that offroad escape had in their kit weren't really needed as long as you just disconnect them from the fenderwell?

I'm gonna pull off the swaybar links in the AM (and pop those off), hoping that I'm issue free. Gonna tie them up with a bungee cord for the day, should work I hope! Hitting some bigger stuff tomorrow, hoping some more articulation will help me out a bit!


The ABS line is mounted with a clip to the frame - to lengthen, rotate the clip 1/4 turn counter clockwise and gently pull some line through. It will give about 2-3 more inches of line but be very careful!

Can't find the spring over mod that you mention, tried here & alcova, and get nothing (well, don't get what I assume I'm looking for)

Not understanding how the t-case would be an issue for the ECU, the primary running gears are the same (right?), the only place where it would be different would be in 4L... and no stabilization in 4L... also I'm a manual, so no tranny issues.

Planning on sending it (ECU) to wayne hartwig, so it wouldn't be the end of the world though.


If you do get the 4:1 transfer Case - you will need to program your PCM/TCM. I believe the 06-07 has a combined PCM/TCM there is also a TCCM (transfer case control module).:grinpimp:


Most everything you need to know about the 3 can be found here:

H3 Manual (http://achim1000.bplaced.net/hummerforum/)

Holy cow... that's a lot more work than I'm up for. I'm sticking with bolt on's for now!!!!


The ext shackles look like an easy choice though...an extra 3/4" would help a lot. Each of my bottom outs last weekend were VERY close to passing.

I think the AAL or maybe just NEW leafs (not sure if that's reasonable price wise?) would help a ton too, it feels rather spongy. (maybe just new shocks?)

Just need a 10" lift & a set of 44's... then it'll be PERFECT:D

If you were to buy a set of Deavers or Alcan's it would cost you the same as a spring over.

If you were to buy a set of Deavers or Alcan's it would cost you the same as a spring over.

well... not sure what those are, but pretty sure they're out of the budget as well!!!!:D

so, any reason NOT to get a set of shackles? I'd really like to get that rake back, and gain a bit more clearance in the rear.





Funny, brought it to get an alignment... and they LOWERED the front to bring it back into alignment!!!! ARRRGGGH!!! It was free, but now I need to crank it right back up... killing me!

well... not sure what those are, but pretty sure they're out of the budget as well!!!!:D

A new Leaf spring pack


so, any reason NOT to get a set of shackles? I'd really like to get that rake back, and gain a bit more clearance in the rear.

No - I had them for a couple of years before I did the SOA. I would recommend Samco fabrications over others.


Funny, brought it to get an alignment... and they LOWERED the front to bring it back into alignment!!!! ARRRGGGH!!! It was free, but now I need to crank it right back up... killing me!

That is Lame - need a different shop!

My SOA cost about $300.00 in parts - if you have a friend who can weld and measure - it's stupid easy.

The driveshaft was a little more - but you could take yours to a shop and have it lengthened for a hundred bucks.

So worth it and you can get your rake back.

My SOA cost about $300.00 in parts - if you have a friend who can weld and measure - it's stupid easy.


whoa, whoa, WHOA... that's asking for a lot isn't it????:D

I know how to use a tape (I'm an estimator for a construction company) and I can put some SERIOUSLY NICE pigeon SH**... I'm all over it!!:shaking::shaking:

With how cheap shackles are, I think I'll try them first, and see how they do... then go from there.

Small changes with the ability to change back if needed are where I'm at for now (yeah... for now) I'm not 100% that I'll stay with this machine, I may be looking at picking something else up eventually mostly due to the lack of power, and the fact that I've got to dump a decent amount of money to get it to locked & better low range. An alpha with the nr6 package would be more ideal, just not sure if I want to dump that kind of money either.

Low commitment, low $$... for now!

:laughing:

Went up to Bill Moore lake today... place was EMPTY, it was great! Little cool though!!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/312011_2012035582600_1295088056_31802153_773170848 _n.jpg

got some new fresh up high... almost sled season!!!
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/308008_2012036662627_1295088056_31802156_153955061 4_n.jpg



N empire trail time lapse from a Canon G9 on a ball head bolted to the Hi lift on the roof, batteries died JUST before the lake!

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2011728374920

Tried Red elephant first, and our friends with a Cherokee put their upper trailing arm through their tranny line (any idea why this is possible on that thing???) so they had to turn around, which was interesting, had to back down a decent ways!

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2012011982010

another great day today! boy, having the doors off sure does make for a bunch of cleanup later though!!

got a little mini xmas today...

Got shackles & a set of adjustable deflators... SUCH a handy thing!!!

got to slap the shackles on before the weekend, looking forward to a that extra little bit!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/299069_2021377376139_1295088056_31810022_193076773 6_n.jpg

Oh yeah, went wheeling across from the house on a road I found this evening, this is looking at the valley I live in. (phone picture... sorry!)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/301141_2021318614670_1295088056_31810007_405009185 _n.jpg

Cranked the front back up (23.75) and went out with a buddy today, found some connectors to a popular trail, good times.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/302593_2048609616928_1295088056_31832538_803547948 _n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s320x320/296385_2048607456874_1295088056_31832534_117497173 7_n.jpg

found a mining cabin off a road I go down all the time...
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/297060_2048611456974_1295088056_31832543_490452618 _n.jpg

Checked out the mine... but it was caved in a little ways in

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/316806_2048612056989_1295088056_31832546_196497189 0_n.jpg

Wheeling... just too much fun!!:D:D

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311820_2048608856909_1295088056_31832537_165459628 8_n.jpg


Haven't slapped on the shackles, got to get them on & get another alignment before we head to moab for the last 2 days of Black sheep!

hey backcountry.. what shackles are those?

also how do u like those guard dog 315's... im about to call treadwright for a set 2morrow..

Very happy with the guard dogs, for offroad use though I'd avoid the kedge grip.
I use it on my Cummins, and they do very well, but on the guard dogs, It softens it a bit too much imo. My rears have taken some chips off from me driving like a moron & spinning too much... other TW guys have said that getting rid of the kedge will help that.


As for the shackles, I found a set that was built from one piece on ebay. I don't see a reason to have a welded unit when it can be done with a one piece construction. They were about $45.

what brand are they? i wanted to get a little more lift in the rear to counter the thor bumper i mounted on the front