project dirt cheep

[BIGBEN]

some of you know my jeep but here are some older pics of where it started.

me wheeling stock in alaska.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/img005.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/img006.jpg

then i got bored and painted it camo.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/img003.jpg

up to this point i had done the following

2" budget lift
31" tires on 15x8 steels
flat fender (due to tree)
front and rear bumpers
gutted the carpet and rear seat
borla cat back

fast forward a few more years and this is as it sits now.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0513081946.jpg

another repaint to solid tan
new used hard top
rocker guards
still 31" tires but steels painted to match body
safari snorkel
new front bumper and grill guard
replace front springs with cherokee springs to level the body
tuffy center console
tuffy rear security drawer

also up to this point
rebuilt the trans twice
blown the rear carrier
two radiators
front axle yoke blown
overheated and warped/cracked head


now for this years plans.

4" long arm lift
35" BFG muds
8K winch
new front bumper w/ grill hoop
tube front fenders
rock rails
new rear bumper
sye and novak shift kit for 231
waggy 44 w/ 79 ford f150 outers and 4.10s w/aussie
ford explorer 8.8 rear w/4.10s and LS
on board air w/ electric pump
replace snorkel with homemade design
tire carrier to handle the 35s

i will take pics when i remember to show my progress.

[pre4runner]

Good luck! i'll be waiting for pics

[Beefy]

:woot: Go ben!

[xj97sport]

the camo was sweet

[LuckyCharm4x4]

hmm... sounds like it will be a pretty nice tire carrier!

~Bry

[Deuce]

I liked the look when it was camo

[BIGBEN]

here are a few pics of my parts collection.

axles and OBA compressor (thanks again rover). also the axle shafts and tubes for control arms are behind the axles.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0630081918.jpg

winch, ford axle parts, and tube for rock rails and steering.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0630081919a.jpg

CJ tire carrier (thanks again bry), more tube for rock rails and control arms, and one BFG with sidewall gash (might tube it for a trail spare). the blue tub has a spare steering gear box which i am going to tap for hydro assist.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0630082043.jpg

the four good BFGs, OBA tank, and the rest of my brake parts for front and rear axles. also my half door frames waiting to be skinned with sheet steel.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0630082045b.jpg


the tube for the control arms is 2" DOM with a .25 wall thickness. i am planning johnny joints at both ends. three link front and four link rear. i am planning to use 1.5" DOM with a .25 wall on both the front and rear track bars. also using johnny joints at both ends.

steering will be made of the same 1.5" tube as the track bars, but using heim joints instead of tie rod ends.

[BIGBEN]

the camo was sweet

I liked the look when it was camo

the camo may be coming back. i haven't decided yet.

[KennyOffroad]

Nice build. :thumb:

:popcorn:

[Bronco4-Play]

Building new fun into a trusted rig. It don't get much better than that.

[Mclovin]

dirt cheap is a fictional term.. often used in build plans but never fully executed..

jeeps looking good !

[Evil Queen]

you rock Ben! Can't wait to see you.:woot:

[Rover]

ben, bring all them parts ,your jeep and yourself to sams imediatly, if not sooner :D

o yeah, i found that valve and fittings for the oba in my rover, reminde me about them so i can give them to ya

[Mongo]

the camo may be coming back. i haven't decided yet.

No

[pre4runner]

Sweet looking piles of parts

[sglide]

still waiting for you to start this:poke:

[BIGBEN]

still waiting for you to start this:poke:

i am working on a new DD right now. once i have that you and rover better be ready to work. :hehe:

[SBC YJ]

the camo may be coming back. i haven't decided yet.

YES

[Rover]

i am working on a new DD right now. once i have that you and rover better be ready to work. :hehe:

whats this "work" thing you talk about, aint nothing like having the beer fridge next to my tool box

[BIGBEN]

whats this "work" thing you talk about, aint nothing like having the beer fridge next to my tool box

work being a figure of speech. it is always fun fixing vehicles with you two.


and i am getting mixed responses about the camo, so you will just have to wait and see what happens. :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

well, other than cutting off some brackets on the axles, i have made no progress so far. :fryingpan:

i will have more to show once i can afford another dd. :cry:

[LuckyCharm4x4]

well you better get to work!

~Bry

[BIGBEN]

well, finished removing the brackets from both axles. also removed the abs sensor protection ribs from the top of the center section of the 8.8. now i just need to make a plate to cover the hole better. also going to move the axle vent to that plate because the vent tube is going to be covered by the truss i am planning.

[Evil Queen]

and the monkey would be.......where?

[BIGBEN]

and the monkey would be.......where?

i haven't found a good spot for him yet. but i am working on it. :thumb:

[BIGBEN]

got the on board air installed. i'll get pics when it is light out again.

also did a little bit of wiring. got the first of my night wheeling lights working.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0917082216.jpg

and the view from the drivers seat.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0917082241.jpg

[LuckyCharm4x4]

looks good Ben, I got to use my trail lights at the pig gig, they worked out awesome, I could see what was around me alot better. It being pitch black out would help if I broke something too, so I wouldn't have to hold a flashlight in my mouth anymore!

~Bry

[Evil Queen]

Great Job Ben!

[pre4runner]

i like how your night light is in a usable place for the driver.

[BIGBEN]

that location is perfect for putting light on the left front tire. that way i can see where that tire is and what it is doing.

[thrca]

When are we wheelin next? I need to come to Big Rapids next weekend or so anyways. Do you know if the trails at the end of west ave. are legal trails? I used to wheel there all the time.

[pre4runner]

and not a shadow from the light behind the tire. makes sence to me

[BIGBEN]

as promised, pics of my on board air install.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0918081701.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0918081700b.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0918081700.jpg

the tank is about a six gallon tank that was salvaged from an old garage compressor. i have the pressure switch set up to work from 80psi to 120 psi. with a 140 psi safety valve i shouldn't ever blow the tank. right now i only have the air chuck in the back. i still need to install a pressure gauge and when i do that i will be running a line up under the hood with a second air chuck.

[pre4runner]

how much did you pick the compressor up for?

[BIGBEN]

When are we wheelin next? I need to come to Big Rapids next weekend or so anyways. Do you know if the trails at the end of west ave. are legal trails? I used to wheel there all the time.

i haven't done any wheeling around here yet. still need to get my four wheel drive working again. :hehe:

and not a shadow from the light behind the tire. makes sence to me

the only thing i am worried about is that the light can be damaged easy. for that reason i used a cheap light that i don't care about. easy and cheap to replace. :thumb:

[BIGBEN]

how much did you pick the compressor up for?

got the compressor, a 2 gallon tank, and some misc fittings from rover for 2 hundred. the 2 gallon tank is going to be modified to go under evil queens jeep when i finish her OBA.

[thrca]

I believe those trails (going from the end of West Ave to 19Mile are considered seasonal roads, at least thats what the sign on the 19mi entrance says.) so my assumption was that if you felt like driving on them in a season when they werent maintained (which, for those ones, is all seasons) it was up to you.

[BIGBEN]

I believe those trails (going from the end of West Ave to 19Mile are considered seasonal roads, at least thats what the sign on the 19mi entrance says.) so my assumption was that if you felt like driving on them in a season when they werent maintained (which, for those ones, is all seasons) it was up to you.

sounds cool. :thumb:

[Rover]

I think ive been on those trails before. I got lost riding around next to 19mile for a good half day

O yeah, looks good ben :hehe:

[thrca]

got the compressor, a 2 gallon tank, and some misc fittings from rover for 2 hundred. the 2 gallon tank is going to be modified to go under evil queens jeep when i finish her OBA.

Hrmm, I got a new 3gal tank, fittings, oiler, de-oiler, manifold, braided stainless hose, 150psi relief valve, check valve with unloader, stock ac compressor, pressure guages...
All I need is the 20 bucks for the pressure switch and a dash switch and relay and I am good to go. Will be doing this down in Big Rapids in the next couple weekends.. Want to get drunk and help?

[thrca]

I think ive been on those trails before. I got lost riding around next to 19mile for a good half day

O yeah, looks good ben :hehe:

I used to have every one of them memorized, but its been a long time since I rode there.

[BIGBEN]

Hrmm, I got a new 3gal tank, fittings, oiler, de-oiler, manifold, braided stainless hose, 150psi relief valve, check valve with unloader, stock ac compressor, pressure guages...
All I need is the 20 bucks for the pressure switch and a dash switch and relay and I am good to go. Will be doing this down in Big Rapids in the next couple weekends.. Want to get drunk and help?

yeah, that would be cool. where you doing the work at.

[thrca]

Umm.... Your garage?

Seriously, was going to do it my dads in the suburbs of Rodney, but might be convinced otherwise.

[Rover]

let me know when your comming down. Ill give ya a hand too.

[BIGBEN]

well, got ambitious today. i have been looking at a box on my bench for a couple days and decided to do something with it.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0930082035a.jpg

that is a powertrax no-slip installed in my 8.8 rear. :woot:

i decided that the limited slip that was in the 8.8 wasn't enough even before i got the axle in the jeep.


i also got the rear corner armor in and can start work on modifying and mounting the swing away tire carrier.

[pre4runner]

i decided that the limited slip that was in the 8.8 wasn't enough even before i got the axle in the jeep.

Thats a smart fellow there

[KennyOffroad]

Nice looking air system and the locker will be alot better then the L/S. :thumb:

[BIGBEN]

well, the brown truck dropped off a present today. didn't waste any time on the install.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/1007081753.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/1007081754.jpg

i just need to make a plate to go over the A to Z fab on the step part.

[Evil Queen]

Very nice Ben!!!

[BIGBEN]

Thats a smart fellow there

Nice looking air system and the locker will be alot better then the L/S. :thumb:

thanks guys. trying to get this thing done as quick as i can while still doing it right. :thumb:

[BIGBEN]

Very nice Ben!!!

damn, that was fast!!! :eek:

i didn't even have my quotes done yet.

[Evil Queen]

damn, that was fast!!! :eek:

.

not my fault

[Beefy]

Sweet

[LuckyCharm4x4]

i just need to make a plate to go over the A to Z fab on the step part.

haha, you don't like the AZ Fab plate? :poke:

~Bry

[BIGBEN]

haha, you don't like the AZ Fab plate? :poke:

~Bry

not really. i think a little diamond plate there would be better. maybe paint it and spread some sand so it has grip also. that way you don't slip on the step. :thumb:

[Rover]

you should paint the top of the plate with that extra herculiner i have

[BIGBEN]

you should paint the top of the plate with that extra herculiner i have

bring it over. we will put it to good use. :thumb:

[miffy]

Very nice work on your rig Ben.:thumb:

[Rover]

bring it over. we will put it to good use. :thumb:

Well do it when the weather clears up a bit. I want to the the tops of my bumpers and rock rails with it too. I have enough left to do the inside of a jeep.

[BIGBEN]

Very nice work on your rig Ben.:thumb:

thanks miffy :hug:





more presents came today

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/1008081204.jpg

now the rear is at about 62" wms to wms and 5x5.5 bolt pattern. once i finish assembling the front axle we will see how close the widths are. .

[Rover]

Thats one nice axle stand :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

yes, i am actually working on this.

i got the front springs i am going to use. they are some brand of 3in lift springs. can't tell you what brand. i plan to use the front cherokee springs i am currently running as my new rear springs. i also got the driveshafts i am going to cut down to use with my sye.

the big thing i did today was to open up the dana 44 and start swapping the gears (actually, rover will be setting up my gears). it seems a little water got into the housing while i had the shafts out for a year or so. i have a little cleaning to do. it is a good thing i wasn't planning to reuse the old carrier because it was wasted due to the rust. sorry, no pics of the rust.

[Evil Queen]

Go to it Ben, you need to be out there with us!!!


and I may be rusty, but I'm not wasted :hehe:

[jsawduste]

well, got ambitious today. i have been looking at a box on my bench for a couple days and decided to do something with it.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/0930082035a.jpg

that is a powertrax no-slip installed in my 8.8 rear. :woot:

i decided that the limited slip that was in the 8.8 wasn't enough even before i got the axle in the jeep.


i also got the rear corner armor in and can start work on modifying and mounting the swing away tire carrier.

Hey Ben, did you weld the tubes on the 8.8 in ?

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=719978&highlight=

[BIGBEN]

Hey Ben, did you weld the tubes on the 8.8 in ?

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=719978&highlight=

not yet, but i also haven't finished welding the brackets either.

what do you think about drilling and tapping the tubes to the center section?

[jsawduste]

not yet, but i also haven't finished welding the brackets either.

what do you think about drilling and tapping the tubes to the center section?

While the tubes are plenty big in dia. they are not all that thick. Honestly I do not like drilling into the housing and MAYBE creating a stress riser from the hole

With the capabilites you and Rover have I`d just weld `em with some hi nickel rod. Add a simple truss that ties the outboard ends of the tubes to the housing will help to stiffen it up as well as help keep the tubes from spinning.

IMHO the 8.8 can me made dang near bullet proof for the typical wheeling we do out here. There are plenty of 8 second drag race cars running the 8.8 with great results.

Only reason I want to change is to straighten the DS out.

[BIGBEN]

While the tubes are plenty big in dia. they are not all that thick. Honestly I do not like drilling into the housing and MAYBE creating a stress riser from the hole

With the capabilites you and Rover have I`d just weld `em with some hi nickel rod. Add a simple truss that ties the outboard ends of the tubes to the housing will help to stiffen it up as well as help keep the tubes from spinning.

with all the suspension crap (upper control arms and coil springs) in the way i can't do a truss all the way to the outer ends of the tubes. i am thinking of making a small truss between the upper control arm mounts and bracing that to the diff cover and the housing by the pinion. i can then continue the truss from the control arm mounts to the spring pads.

[jsawduste]

with all the suspension crap (upper control arms and coil springs) in the way i can't do a truss all the way to the outer ends of the tubes. i am thinking of making a small truss between the upper control arm mounts and bracing that to the diff cover and the housing by the pinion. i can then continue the truss from the control arm mounts to the spring pads.

:thumb:

[Rover]

I wanted to make a truss like this but Ben wouldent let me http://128.83.80.193/scarysteering/scary136.jpg

[Beefy]

I wanted to make a truss like this but Ben wouldent let me http://128.83.80.193/scarysteering/scary136.jpg

Pittman arm steering :eek:

And them are the same lights that I have on my plow :lol:

[BIGBEN]

sorry, that is a little overkill on the truss.

[BIGBEN]

oh yeah, did a little more cleaning on the 44 today. also started to clearance the rear axle brackets so they will fit on the 8.8


the big thing i did today was arrange for me to have a heated garage with air tools and a welder to work in over the next couple of months. now i won't freeze my butt of in my non heated garage. it is looking good for me to get this thing together by spring. maybe even try it out at the spring fling. we shall see.

[Beefy]

Should be a 1 day project :poke:

[BIGBEN]

Should be a 1 day project :poke:

ok, what day is good for you to come and finish it up then. :hehe:

[pre4runner]

one day project for all of us if we each take a bolt.

[Beefy]

I'll change the oil :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

I'll change the oil :hehe:

just no amsoil :hehe:

[Rover]

so are we working in a heated garage tomorrow?

[BIGBEN]

so are we working in a heated garage tomorrow?

nope :sadpanda:

the 44 is still in mine. it is next week that i will start moving my operation down the street to the heat.

[Rover]

if its cold your gona see my fat ass rolling that axle cart over there tomorrow :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

well, it wasn't too cold for rover and i to finish setting up the gears in the 44. now they match with 4.10 gears front and rear. :woot:

the only problem being getting the correct inner axle seals for my axle. :pissed:

[Evil Queen]

Bring what you can and work on it up here...in the heat :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

Bring what you can and work on it up here...in the heat :hehe:

the plan is to only work on your jeep tomorrow. that way there is more time to party. :dance:

not going to waste time with you by working on my jeep.

[Evil Queen]

a good home cooked meal like you'd get from your mom...(I'm actually a good cook outside the restaurant)

phase 10 and some beers and laughs. That'll rip this sadness out of me :woot:

[BIGBEN]

well, it wasn't too cold for rover and i to finish setting up the gears in the 44. now they match with 4.10 gears front and rear. :woot:

the only problem being getting the correct inner axle seals for my axle. :pissed:

went and picked up the correct seals, reinstalled the carrier, and buttoned up the diff cover. :woot:

now that i have the cover back on, i see there is a lot of metal to remove off the lower lip of the 44. time to grind. :thumb:

[BIGBEN]

well, i took the grinder to the lip on the 44. took off about 3/8" so far and i may go back at it. at most i will take about 1/2" off the lower lip. not much but a half inch is a half inch.

pics tomorrow when i do more work on it. :thumb:

[pre4runner]

I plan on shaving as much as possible off of my diffs as well.

[BIGBEN]

ok, i lied about the pics. forgot to take them before i put the cover on.


but, i now have an aussie locker in the 44. :woot:

very nice construction and very easy to install, other than i had to pull the carrier back out and remove the ring gear to do the install. no big deal.

and after removing the cover and looking how much material i had left to grind on the bottom, i will leave it at 3/8". i don't want to sacrifice strength around the diff cover bolts for a little extra clearance under the pig. the front now has an inch extra clearance over the rear 8.8 so i will spend my time seeing what i can do with that instead.

tomorrow i have some axle shaft u-joints to replace as well as some spindle bearings. it is starting to come together.

[BIGBEN]

well, started to put the axle shafts together today. it seems the ford stub shafts i bought off someone aren't ford stubs at all. they are the same dimensions as the waggy ones i am replacing. they are too long. :pissed:

my neighbor down the street says he may have some so i will wait and see. if he doesn't i will have to find another set. not very happy but what can you do. :shrug:

[Evil Queen]

that sucks!!!

[Beefy]

If it makes you feel any better I tore down my "new" engine and found a crap load of stuff wrong with it. (Big chunks of crap in the oil pan :cry:

[Evil Queen]

If it makes you feel any better I tore down my "new" engine and found a crap load of stuff wrong with it. (Big chunks of crap in the oil pan :cry:

that sucks too!!!

[BIGBEN]

If it makes you feel any better I tore down my "new" engine and found a crap load of stuff wrong with it. (Big chunks of crap in the oil pan :cry:

:eek: damn buddy, that does suck. i now am sad for you.

[Beefy]

Oh well.. Nothing I can do but rebuild it. Isn't this YOUR build thread :hehe: I did order all the parts for mine including a high volume oil pump today tho should be here tomorrow :woot:

[BIGBEN]

Oh well.. Nothing I can do but rebuild it. Isn't this YOUR build thread :hehe: I did order all the parts for mine including a high volume oil pump today tho should be here tomorrow :woot:

cool :thumb:


i only have a few more parts to get for the front axle. for some reason i keep forgetting to order my bracket kit. :fryingpan:

[pre4runner]

no snags here, sucks you have the wrong parts, i know where i can find some ford stubs if you don't have any luck

[BIGBEN]

no snags here, sucks you have the wrong parts, i know where i can find some ford stubs if you don't have any luck

i am constantly looking for shafts so i can get a spare set together.

[BIGBEN]

well, other than ordering front track bar, steering parts, the rest of the seals and axles for the 44, and brake lines i really haven't gotten much done lately. i keep forgetting to order the front bracket kit so i haven't gotten that installed yet. :fryingpan: haven't done any more work on the 8.8 brackets either so i am showing my laziness this last week. :poke:

about the only thing i did succeed in was rebuilding and installing my front driveshaft. :woot:

now when the snow hits i have four wheel drive.

[BIGBEN]

well, we have almost finished my roommates jeep so i am going to get back on mine. got more presents from the brown man today. :woot:

also found the stub shafts i need and a kilby gas tank skid. going to be getting them over the thanksgiving break. :dance:

i am finally going to get on grinding the rear axle brackets to fit the 8.8. then i will start welding them and building the truss. i have a few cool ideas on how to do it all, i will get pics when it is done. gonna be one damn strong axle when i am done. :thumb:

[BIGBEN]

steering parts came in today :woot:

7/8 rod ends with spacers to step them down for 3/4 bolts. 1.5 inch .25 wall DOM tubing. i shouldn't be able to break this while i am cruising the mall parking lots. :hehe:

also ordered my front axle brackets from rubicon express today. :dance:

[Mongo]

Done by next week?

[BIGBEN]

Done by next week?

:lol: thats a good joke.

[Mongo]

I have faith.

[BIGBEN]

I have faith.

at least one of us does. :hehe:

[Captain Ledd]

I shouldn't be able to break this while i am cruising the mall parking lots. :hehe:

I don't know man, that stretch of road between the house and campus can be treacherous. All those stop lights and deer :yikes:

[pre4runner]

steering parts came in today :woot:

7/8 rod ends with spacers to step them down for 3/4 bolts. 1.5 inch .25 wall DOM tubing. i shouldn't be able to break this while i am cruising the mall parking lots. :hehe:

also ordered my front axle brackets from rubicon express today. :dance:

See thats why this is taking so long, you just keep ordering parts

[Mongo]

:hehe:

[BIGBEN]

See thats why this is taking so long, you just keep ordering parts

i thought about building my own brackets, but the rubicon express kit is just too nice.

[pre4runner]

ill agree they do make some nice stuff, most of the time. A buddy just bent the hell out of his LCA's though, but it is questionable on what caused them to bend.

[BIGBEN]

i never liked the looks of their control arms. they use kinda thin wall tube to me.

i am still deciding between making my own control arms and buying some.

[Mongo]

i thought about building my own brackets, but the rubicon express kit is just too nice.Did you order through Chop? He gets a discounted price.

[BIGBEN]

Did you order through Chop? He gets a discounted price.

nope.

[Mongo]

Check with him in da future. He got me my upper control arm mounts for my leaf springs.















































:hehe:

[pre4runner]

i never liked the looks of their control arms. they use kinda thin wall tube to me.

i am still deciding between making my own control arms and buying some.

same here, i thought they where small when i installed them... turns out they are.

I say make them, its easy and cheaper

[BIGBEN]

i have some 2in .25 wall tubing laying around that would make great lowers.

i should even have some 1.5in .25 wall left over from my steering for the uppers.

[Blackjackbender]

i have some 2in .25 wall tubing laying around that would make great lowers.

i should even have some 1.5in .25 wall left over from my steering for the uppers.



1.5" 1/4" for steering :woot::woot:

[BIGBEN]

well, i am cross state so i am not going to get anything done to the jeep this weekend.

but i did manage to pick up a few things while i was here. i now have a kilby gas tank skidplate and a complete 231 w/ sye to swap in. i have 97 percent of the parrts needed to complete this project. now i just need to get off my lazy but and do it. :hehe:

[Evil Queen]

Ben, do you want that carpet? If not, I'm putting it in the free section. If so, I'll just keep it here.

[BIGBEN]

nah, no one in BR needs it right now. but thanks for asking :thumb:

someone else should be able to put it to goods use.

[BIGBEN]

well, instead of doing anything to the jeep axles over my christmas break, i have the fun project of ripping the dash out and fixing my heat. lets just say having no heat is getting old quick.

[BIGBEN]

well, i haven't done crap to the jeep since last year (damn broken ankle :hehe:)


but i have gotten some more ideas on what i want to do for bumpers on the heep. and seeing i still have access to the weld lab at school, i am going to do some more fab work.

i am planning something based off of this for the front.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/SFW-30016-113_LRG.jpg

http://www.sniperfab.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=21&products_id=229

i may put some form of tube work on it. i haven't decided yet.

as for the rear bumper, i like this idea

http://www.genright.com/images/products/RBB1001_MULTI_md.jpg

http://www.genright.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=RBB1001

i would weld some d-ring mounts directly to the new rear crossmember/bumper.

[pre4runner]

i like those ideas

[BIGBEN]

i think they will work pretty good.

i am tossing the idea of just welding the bumper right to the front frame horns. i also haven't decided if i want to put a grill hoop or a stinger (penis extension) on it.

and i don't know if i am going to get fancy and write anything in the front face. :hehe:

[pre4runner]

on a TJ i would weld it right to the frame, especially that style. with "BIG" cut into it

[BIGBEN]

http://www.purejeep.com/prodimages/DSCN0021_medium.JPG

hhhmmmmmmmmmmm.

[jsawduste]

http://www.purejeep.com/prodimages/DSCN0021_medium.JPG

hhhmmmmmmmmmmm.

Do it, do it, you deserve it after all the ankle business.

[LuckyCharm4x4]

Here are some that I started for Barbie, but then I decided to make her a front hoop instead and I had to put her Jeep back together before she got home from New Orleans :hehe:

http://bryan.luckyoffroad.com/LuckyCharm/Ali%27s%20Jeep/2009/2-24%20Fenders/100_1278.JPG

http://bryan.luckyoffroad.com/LuckyCharm/Ali%27s%20Jeep/2009/2-24%20Fenders/100_1277.JPG

http://bryan.luckyoffroad.com/LuckyCharm/Ali%27s%20Jeep/2009/2-24%20Fenders/100_1271.JPG

http://bryan.luckyoffroad.com/LuckyCharm/Ali%27s%20Jeep/2009/2-24%20Fenders/100_1286.JPG

~Bry

[rzmod]

i think they will work pretty good.

i am tossing the idea of just welding the bumper right to the front frame horns. i also haven't decided if i want to put a grill hoop or a stinger (penis extension) on it.

and i don't know if i am going to get fancy and write anything in the front face. :hehe:

i made a stubby bumper and welded it right to the frame....

[rzmod]

well, i haven't done crap to the jeep since last year (damn broken ankle :hehe:)


but i have gotten some more ideas on what i want to do for bumpers on the heep. and seeing i still have access to the weld lab at school, i am going to do some more fab work.

i am planning something based off of this for the front.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/SFW-30016-113_LRG.jpg

http://www.sniperfab.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=21&products_id=229

i may put some form of tube work on it. i haven't decided yet.

as for the rear bumper, i like this idea


http://www.genright.com/images/products/RBB1001_MULTI_md.jpg

http://www.genright.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=RBB1001

i would weld some d-ring mounts directly to the new rear crossmember/bumper.

they wanted 60.00 to ship this to weirs...!! i had some 3/16 bent and just made my own..... i have about 75.00 in it... ill take some pics,rz

[BIGBEN]

they wanted 60.00 to ship this to weirs...!! i had some 3/16 bent and just made my own..... i have about 75.00 in it... ill take some pics,rz

i was just using those pics for examples. in the fall i will have full access to a fab shop (at ferris state) and plan on making everything for the front and rear bumpers. the only thing i may buy is some pre-bent tubes for the front bumper. haven't decided if i am going to add any tubework.

[BIGBEN]

well, now that i can get back to work on it, i figured i would start with the not fun project of fixing my heater. i found out this last winter that i had no heat at all (except what found its way through the floor from the exhaust :hehe:)

so now i am out to the garage to pull the dash and find out just how easy an 03 heater fits in a 99. :ha:

[jsawduste]

Hey Ben, if you need some help just let out a holler.

[BIGBEN]

well, i have heat again. :dance:

and for future reference. yes the 03 heater fit with only one mod. due to the orientation of the blower motor you have to cover a hole in the firewall. and a 99 heater wouldn't fit a newer jeep due to this needed hole.

sorry, i didn't take any pics before i put everything back together. but next time you see me i can show you the hole i had to patch. :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

after doing a little bit of measuring this weekend i have had a few ideas.

i have been wanting to put the air filter in place of the battery to work with the snorkel that i am planning. i also want to do a dual battery set-up.

so the problem i have had is where to put the batteries. i had thought about putting them in the back but really don't want power cables that long. but then it hit me, and i am not meaning that bowling ball. :hehe:

i can move the original battery up and forward a bit so it is in front of the computer. that should leave enough room underneath it for a box to be built to house the new air filter. the second battery i have an even more interesting plan for. a ffew years ago i modified the seat brackets to move both seats back about 4 inches so i can fit more comfortably. this leaves a lot of floor space on the passenger side. it looks like i can make a box/bracket to mount the new battery on the floor under the heater unit. and it looks like there is still plenty of leg room on that side even with the battery mounted there.

so once i get back to school this fall i will have to start working on these. pics as soon as i can.

[BIGBEN]

well, it sucks having most of your parts across state, but i did have a few more things i could finish here.

i mounted the remote speaker for my CB. it won't help that i usually can't hear things. :hehe:


i also took the new knuckles for the front axle to a shop i worked for. they let me use one of thier machines to take the tie rod hole and bore it out to 3/4". now i just need to weld a brace to the knuckle so that the rod ends will be in double shear.

[BIGBEN]

ok, i am sure you are tired of reading nonsense with no pictures, but oh well. :hehe:

i washed it today and realized something. after looking at the amount of paint that flaked off i definitely need to repaint the jeep. i will plan it for next summer, that will give me enough time to figure out what color i am going to go with this time. :ha:

i think i will also do a better job this time so it lasts a little longer :lol:

[Beefy]

Bring it to the Sault... I'll make it ummm fun :dirty:

[BIGBEN]

:thumb:

[Mongo]

Will this jeep end up making dirty bird noises.

[BIGBEN]

Will this jeep end up making dirty bird noises.

:wtf:

[Mongo]

The title says dirt cheep. Birds sing "cheep, cheep, cheep". Did you mean Cheap?

[Trucks are for girls!]

hahhahaa

[BIGBEN]

the license plate on the jeep is DRTJEEP. it means dirt jeep. this has nothing to do with it being dirty or for offroad, it is a variaton of the phrase dirt cheap. i am refering to the fact that i am making the mods to this jeep as cheaply as possible.

so it is a jeep that will be made as dirt cheap as possible. to simplify all of that, i have changed the spelling of cheap to be cheep, because jeep has EE instead of EA

so, the name of the project is Dirt Cheep. :thumb:

which you will now understand has nothing to do with birds. :junk:

[Beefy]

Dirt Peep

[Nate4d]

pretty sure this drtjeep is never going to start any sort of build up, and its already at 4 pages

[Beefy]

x2

[BIGBEN]

ha ha, very funny.

you just have to give me a month or so.

[BIGBEN]

plus i will need to get working on it if i am going to make it on a december run. :thumb:

[Trucks are for girls!]

plus i will need to get working on it if i am going to make it on a december run. :thumb:

git-r-done!!! :hehe:

[86BlackedoutBronco]

lookin good

[Nate4d]

ha ha, very funny.

you just have to give me a month or so.
the thread started 6/30/08

a month or so? hahaa

[Beefy]

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[BIGBEN]

:flip:

[Beefy]

Go to bank..

Walk to counter with uggliest girl

Explain to her why they call you "Big Ben"

Then walk out with said ugly girl and $20,000

[BIGBEN]

:lol:

[BIGBEN]

so, i figured i would get back on this with a nice easy project. replacing the steering gearbox.

nice and easy my butt.

the spare i have also leaks around the pitman arm. i had the new seal for it, just hadn't taken the time to install it. so when i go looking for the new seal, i can't find it. :angry:

so now in the morning i will be going to find if i can get another new seal.

i also am going to drill and tap both of the steering boxes for hydro assist. that way i am ready for when i add that.

but seeing this jeep isn't going to be done until 2017 why am i even bothering with it. :hehe:

[Evil Queen]

You MUST finish it sooner. But if you don't....I always have a free seat for you :hug:

I've never come closer to throwing tools that when I tried to get the pitman arm off my steering box. Your buddy on facebook mentioned the Durango box, I wish I'd gone that route.

[Mongo]

Benny, Let me know if you want me to gawk through the Flint yards for a new box. I never turn down a reason to go.

[BIGBEN]

got two boxes right now. just need to make one of them not leak. :hehe:

but i might be giving you a shopping list off other things.

[BIGBEN]

well, i did get the new seal.

and i did get the first box drilled and ported for the hydro assist.

i used the following for most of my reference as to where to drill.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/HydroAssistTap/index.html

http://www.jpmagazine.com/techarticles/154_0406_ram_assist_steering/index.html

now i just need to get the pitman arm off and replace the seal. but it is not coming off easy. :pissed:

[Mongo]

Angle grinder with a cutting disc and buy a new pitman arm. Don't hit the shaft. Not the cheapest way, but sometimes the only way.

[BIGBEN]

nope, a little pb blaster and a pitman arm puller did the trick. :thumb:

since i was doing it i replace both seals on the sector shaft. it didn't make sense to do only the outer seal.

[BIGBEN]

well, i finally did get the steering box swapped around. on to the next item.



which is the front bumper. i dug the steel i have for it out of a corner and i am going to start measuring and designing it. that way as soon as i can get into the weld lab at the end of the month i will fab up all the parts i need and get it put on the jeep.

[Beefy]

Holy crap somethings being done :hehe:

[Beefy]

Ben you really should of just came up to my house when you broke your ankle. It would of been down by now :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

Holy crap somethings being done :hehe:

i told you guys, once i get back to BR, the work will start. not that i mind riding with people, but i want to actualy wheel my own jeep.

[Mongo]

not that i mind riding with people

Even if we roll........................on dry pavement?:hehe:

[BIGBEN]

Even if we roll........................on dry pavement?:hehe:

yep, even then. but of course we didn't roll so it is all good. :ha:

[86BlackedoutBronco]

:eek::cry: too much info..

[Beefy]

:idance:

[BIGBEN]

so, got everything ready for the front bumper. next week i will start taking parts up to school to weld them together.

also got the kilby gas tank skid painted and ready. now i am just waiting to burn the gas out of the tank so i can install that. the skid is heavy enough without having to lift a full tank of gas. :hehe:

[Beefy]

:popcorn:

[BIGBEN]

so yep, today was steering rebuild v2.0

my freshly rebuilt gearbox started leaking so i had to rebuild it. again. :fryingpan:

but it is in and we will see how this one holds up.

[BIGBEN]

couple of teaser shots for those who think i don't do work on my jeep. crappy cell camera = crappy pics. sorry.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/0911091800.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/0911091801.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/0911091801a.jpg

[jsawduste]

Needs more triangulation...........:old:

[BIGBEN]

Needs more triangulation...........:old:

i think i should weld it to the frame first. :hehe:

just doing a little test fitting of the pieces.

[BIGBEN]

i hate rust. :pissed:

[joe_jeep]

you can rebuild a jeep box all you want. it will leak not long after you do. they are garbage. add a locker and real tires your in real trouble.
jeep looks good!

[BIGBEN]

i hate rust. :pissed:

i was going to swap the kilby skid plate into the jeep, but the gas tank straps were not going to be reusable due to michigan rust. so i had to wait a couple days before i got the news straps.

so i not only swapped in the kilby skid, but i had found a used 19 gallon tank and fuel pump/sending unit to replace my 15 gallon.

one more thing off the list.

[BIGBEN]

you can rebuild a jeep box all you want. it will leak not long after you do. they are garbage. add a locker and real tires your in real trouble.
jeep looks good!

as it turns out, when i initially rebuilt the box, i had damaged the new seal during reassembly. :fryingpan:

and i am going to keep the stock steering box but i am going to run hydro assist. hopefully that will be done when i swap the axle. but i will run it without the assist if the budget doesn't allow for it at the time.

[BIGBEN]

well, after christmas things are going to get really fun.

i have a 9 hour a week, 15 week lab class in the spring that i have to do a welding project for. my instructor is letting me work on my axles among other jeep projects for that class.

so the definite projects for that class are:

1). finish tire carrier and corner guards

2). weld all brackets on front axle w/ over axle truss.

3). modify steering knuckles for double sheer mount and build steering linkage

4). weld all brackets on rear axle w/ over axle truss.

5). shave and plate bottom of 8.8 rear axle and build custom diff cover.

[BIGBEN]

ok, progress on the new front bumper. don't complain about the crappy pics. :ha:

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1114091556.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1114091557.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1114091558b.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1114091557a.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1114091558.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1114091558a.jpg

[Evil Queen]

:thumb:

[Trucks are for girls!]

looking good

[Beefy]

How thick is the top plate? Looks good but the pic's make the plate look a lil thin

[BIGBEN]

top plate is .25"

you can't see them but there is also .375" reinforcement strips welded to the bottom of that plate.

the front plates are made of .1875" and there is still one more plate to go on the bottom that will be .125"

[BIGBEN]

got the last parts today for the front bumper. :dance:

hope to have it fully welded this weekend. :woot:

[BIGBEN]

one last teaser pic before i weld it on and paint it. then i will get a better camera and better pics.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1204091436a.jpg

[BigBird]

Looking good... and so's the avatar...

Jamie

[BIGBEN]

Looking good... and so's the avatar...

Jamie

thanks. for my first real fab project it is turning out better than i ever thought it would.

[BIGBEN]

so, i went and picked up my body lift today. :hehe:

http://tsa.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/p5157805reg.jpg

just gotta drill holes and get new bolts.

[LuckyCharm4x4]

If you're going with hockey pucks at least do yourself a favor and use a metal sleeve that goes through the puck and body mount.

~Bry

[BIGBEN]

If you're going with hockey pucks at least do yourself a favor and use a metal sleeve that goes through the puck and body mount.

~Bry

i have some 7/8 tube with a 1/2 ID that i had planned to use for this. :thumb:

the puck is just to stabilize everything. and eventually i am going to cut the mount brackets off the frame and move them up an inch to remove the puck altogether. but that is a later project.

[Alter Ego]

Ending your stinger right by the clevis' makes it look like a giant D-ring.


http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/1204091436a.jpg

[Evil Queen]

All looking great Ben...:nate:

[jimbo]

that stinger looks sick! (not like stomach flu sick...but good sick)

[BIGBEN]

thanks jimbo, i really like the way it turned out.

[BIGBEN]

buy hockey pucks----done

drill hole in pucks----done

cut tube for sleeve in pucks----done

buy longer bolts----done


looks like i am putting a body lift on this weekend. :woot:

[Beefy]

Have you built the axles yet? Or are you waiting to buy mine? :hehe:

[Evil Queen]

wooooot

[BIGBEN]

Have you built the axles yet? Or are you waiting to buy mine? :hehe:

i am starting work on the tire carrier tomorrow and should have that done next week (as long as my new taillights come in).

the front knuckles go into the lab next to get a little bit of welding work, then the front axle goes in for its brackets.

then the rear axle.

then the rear bumper needs some modification.

then pam is getting a new bumper/tire carrier.


and no, i don't want full width for this jeep. :hehe:

[Beefy]

http://imway2fat.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/happy-chicken.jpg

[Evil Queen]

i am starting work on the tire carrier tomorrow and should have that done next week (as long as my new taillights come in).

the front knuckles go into the lab next to get a little bit of welding work, then the front axle goes in for its brackets.

then the rear axle.

then the rear bumper needs some modification.

then pam is getting a new bumper/tire carrier.

and no, i don't want full width for this jeep. :hehe:

Me love you longtime

but take care of your jeep before you even think about anything for mine :hug:

[BIGBEN]

http://imway2fat.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/happy-chicken.jpg

:flip: :flip: :flip: :flip:

when are yours coming out? i am planning to have mine done and under the jeep this summer. will yours be out before then?

[BIGBEN]

Me love you longtime

but take care of your jeep before you even think about anything for mine :hug:

:hug:

i told you i am building a new bumper for you, but there is a reason its last on the list. i want to get my stuff done. :hehe:

[Beefy]

:flip: :flip: :flip: :flip:

when are yours coming out? i am planning to have mine done and under the jeep this summer. will yours be out before then?

Nah mine will be waiting till next season I'm going to go a different rout with the dakota :hehe:

lookin like air shocks instead of coil overs tho.

[BIGBEN]

Nah mine will be waiting till next season I'm going to go a different rout with the dakota :hehe:

lookin like air shocks instead of coil overs tho.

linked front and rear with one tons?

[Beefy]

:thumb:

[BIGBEN]

well, i keep forgetting to take pics, but i have been working on this at school.

i have been working on the rear tub corners/ tire carrier mounts.

the front axle gets hauled up next week to get started on the brackets.

and i will try to remember to take some pictures friday.

[Rover]

get some pics buddie, its been awhile since we did the axles in your garage. I miss br

[Evil Queen]

I do believe you owe me a pic of you and the contents of a certain envelope?

[BIGBEN]

well, my roommate is selling his grand cherokee. we decided there is no reason to sell it with the optima battery that is in it. so he is trading me the optima for a normal battery.

now i have to work on my dual battery tray. :hehe:

[BIGBEN]

as promised, here are some pictures.

these are of my tub corners with the mounts for the tire carrier welded on.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0004.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0005.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0006.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0007.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0008.jpg

and these are my new front knuckles. i am welding an extra arm onto them to put the rod ends in double shear. just a little overkill for a 44 front. :hehe:

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0015-1.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0016.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0020.jpg

[BIGBEN]

i also got my new taillights and backup lights for teh jeep. i am going to get the corners painted this week and next weekend will be installing them. :woot:

then i can measure up for the new tire carrier.

[Evil Queen]

Nice Ben!!

[MuddyPaws 3.0]

Ben has a Jeep?

[pre4runner]

i want finished picks already

[BIGBEN]

i want finished picks already

you and me both brother, you and me both.

[BIGBEN]

got the knuckles welded up today. :woot:

the front axle goes in monday morning. :woot:

[thrca]

Looks good Ben.. You going to come out and wheel this summer? :D

[BIGBEN]

Looks good Ben.. You going to come out and wheel this summer? :D

if i can get the axles under it and find some new shoes for it. :thumb:

started prepping the bracket kit to fit the axle. i have a few holes to open up and the shock mounts need to be modified. but otherwise i am really happy with how nice and easy they are to work with. i will take a pic of it friday when i hope to tack all the brackets on the housing.

[BIGBEN]

got shafted today. :eek:

i was missing the stub shafts for the front axle and finally figured i should find some. so i bought a set of alloy shafts from Jeffs Bronco Graveyard. i also needed a few more parts to get the front end together and the budget allowed for me to get it all. :woot:

if you want i can get pics of my shafts. :dirty: :hehe:

[thrca]

So you didnt answer my call today.. Lucky thinks your rear corners are bought, I am wagering that you made them.. So what is it?

[LuckyCharm4x4]

Bought, and altered!

~Bry

[BIGBEN]

they were bought and altered. :D

i had already bought the corners before i knew i was building all this at the school.

if i could have done it over, i would have made them at school.

[BIGBEN]

and i was in class when you called. of course i still haven't listened to your message. :hehe:

[Mongo]

Ben has a Jeep?:wtf:

[BIGBEN]

Ben has a Jeep?:wtf:

yes, i have a jeep. :fryingpan: :fryingpan: :fryingpan: :fryingpan: :fryingpan:

[LuckyCharm4x4]

they were bought and altered. :D

i had already bought the corners before i knew i was building all this at the school.

if i could have done it over, i would have made them at school.

YES!!!! hahahaha THRCA!!!! I win!

How would you have made the bend in them?

~Bry

[thrca]

Dammit.

[thrca]

I still think its do-able without any type of break or anything.. A couple molds, warm it up to cherry red, and bend away.

[BIGBEN]

we have a hydraulic press brake. small bend every .25 inch would have done it. or heat it up and bend it over a form. either would work.

we are a fab shop, of sorts. we can do anything. :D

[Evil Queen]

they were bought and altered. :D

i had already bought the corners before i knew i was building all this at the school.

if i could have done it over, i would have made them at school.

build your own and sell me those

I love it when you fit your parts to mine :nate:

[BIGBEN]

build your own and sell me those

I love it when you fit your parts to mine :nate:

we could do that. you would also get a new tire carrier and new taillights/backup lights. :D

i have another idea for mine. :D

[Evil Queen]

do they fit the led lights?

do you really think i need a new tire carrier? :wtf: bwhahahahahhahahahahahha

[BIGBEN]

i wasn't planning the LEDS, but they could be put in.

and yeah, that carrier needs to go.

[MuddyPaws 3.0]

Cool stuff ben

[BIGBEN]

more work done today.

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0044.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0066.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0067.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0068.jpg

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll157/BIGBEN68/jeep%20stuff/100_0064.jpg

[BIGBEN]

also plans have changed a little. the tire carrier and corners i have been working on are now going on pams jeep.

the plan is now to raise the storage trunk in the back of the jeep up 14 inches so the spare tire can fit under it. i also am buying a used set of these to armor the rear of teh jeep. :D

http://www.sniperfab.com/images/large/SFW-30014_LRG.JPG

[jsawduste]

also plans have changed a little. the tire carrier and corners i have been working on are now going on pams jeep.

the plan is now to raise the storage trunk in the back of the jeep up 14 inches so the spare tire can fit under it. i also am buying a used set of these to armor the rear of teh jeep. :D

http://www.sniperfab.com/images/large/SFW-30014_LRG.JPG

Ben,
good idea on the spare under the trunk. Lower CG and you can see behind ya a heck of a lot better.

[BIGBEN]

Ben,
good idea on the spare under the trunk. Lower CG and you can see behind ya a heck of a lot better.

that is one of the things i realized. my visibility behind me is already pretty bad and the tire would make it worse.

[BIGBEN]

damn, the tire will not be able to work under the trunk. but i think i will be able to make it work on top of the trunk. i have been meaning to reorganize the back of the jeep anyways so this will all work out.

[BIGBEN]

http://www.swagoffroad.com/files/P2150304-1.JPG
http://www.swagoffroad.com/files/P2150303-1.JPG

soon, very soon.

[Evil Queen]

I LOVE that tailgate setup Ben!!!!! And those are the same tailights I want to get. Looking good!!!!!

[BIGBEN]

ok, this whole tire in the back of the jeep concept has been driving me insane. i am trying to fit five pounds of shit in a five pound bag. i need to put everything in a perfect place to make it all work.

but i finally figured it out. the tire can still be put under the storage trunk like originally planned. but to make that possible i will have to deflate the tire to 5 to 10 psi. just enough to keep the beads from popping. then it will be able to slide through the tailgate opening and under the trunk. everything else will mount on top of the trunk like before. and seeing i have an OBA system in the jeep i can re-inflate the spare when needed. it should all work perfectly. now i just need to start bolting it all in. :hehe:

[Evil Queen]

awesome, but mostly I have the visual of you putting 5lbs of shit into a bag ......"get this visual out of my head"

[BIGBEN]

well, i got the brackets made for the storage trunk. i also have most of the parts to finish the flip down tailgate. one more piece to make in weld lab tomorrow.

the rest of the stuff is downstairs right now being painted, so this should be a fun weekend of working on the jeeps ass end.

pics when it is all together.

[BIGBEN]

trunk is back in. i am going to have to rework how my air tank mounts seeing the trunk is 14 inches higher than it was. :hehe:

[thrca]

Hey Ben, I see you have practiced building a truss now.. Want to build one for my 8.8? :D

[BIGBEN]

Hey Ben, I see you have practiced building a truss now.. Want to build one for my 8.8? :D

the bridge on the 44 was bought not built. :hehe: it is from a rubicon express kit.

but if you want a truss built, i could make you one. i am making one out of 2X4 box steel for my 8.8.