REAL MAN TRUCKWORKS & SURVIVAL
GENERAL TOPICS => Adventure => Topic started by: Flyin6 on July 17, 2023, 01:03:54 PM
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Up to this point, I have been reducing weight in a failed attempt to give me the illusion of more power.
So, I did get rid of a bunch of stuff I wouldn't use anyway and replaced those items with things that would work, while reducing weight.
But after some threads here and on my website, I'm tossing in the towel. I will not be able to get this JT to perform to what I deem as acceptable standards with this V6 engine no matter if I saw off the whole back end aft of the windshield. The little motor just doesn't have truck-like torque... period!
I have decided to just live with it for now.
Before I completely soak my crying towel, I decided to just start using the JT as is with respect to the power plant situation and get to exploring. So, from here on I will be adding weight and miles to the thing instead, and perhaps toss a hemi in there at some future date.
To see how it will do, I will be leaving on a short trip into the Appalachian Mountains in a week to do as many trails and nights as my better half will permit. First I promised her a week at Hilton Head where we can soak in the sun and get fat and become lazier, but then it's off to the hills.
For the fun part of the trip, I decided to add a rooftop tent and bed rack assembly for the wilderness overnights.
My selections were a FishBone full-size rack and a brand new IKamper 2.0 full-size tent. I placed paid for it today and will pick up tomorrow, then mount it all up on Wednesday.
We tried out the IKamper mini, a 2-person tent coming in at 125 lbs, but settled on the larger 4-person tent @ 160 lbs. Pictured is the mini. My full-size sky camp is on the bottom shelf.
IKamper is now building the 3.0 models at $4K+. High-Lift off-road still had several brand new 2.0's in stock and I was able to score one of them at a discounted price.
The one on the bottom is mine.
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Vehicle build thread is here:
http://real-man-truckworks-and-survival.com/index.php?topic=5198.0
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:popcorn:
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Before I drop on the RTT and the cage, I'll have to swap out the rear springs. I am running a Clayton 3.5" suspension made for the unladen vehicle. I was advised to switch to the heavier-duty springs when I added rooftop tents and cargo consistent with normal over-landing gear.
So that is shaping up to be the initial project here. I just so happen to have a brand-new set of heavy-duty rear springs made for the Gladiator that constantly carries additional loads in the bed. I guess I had better get after that.
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Here is the target area to test the tent, Pisgah National Forest near Ashville N.C.
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Prepped the truck this afternoon with the addition of slightly heavier-duty rear springs to carry the approximate 200 additional pounds the truck is about to get.
All total there should be another 100 or so pounds of cargo along with Kat to round things out. This first outing will be light while we sort of work into it so to speak to figure out what we may like to take along.
It developed a lot more nose-down attitude with the rear getting a bit taller than before.
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How the thing sets up/stows
Easy/fast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mpy9znXX48
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I picked up the new rack and IKamper yesterday
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The FishBone brand full-sized rack:
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FishBone manufacturing supplies robber pads for all contact points that self-adhere:
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The thing goes together quickly. You simply set in place the three uprights then toss on the two straps on the top and loosely bolt all that together.
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Next, you bolt on the two side rails which serve as anchor points for whatever you are thinking of adding.
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Once that is done all that remains is to attach the six two-bolt clamps that attach it to the bed rails and you're done
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That all completed the installation of the rack system.
It was here where my son and I lofted the 160 lb tent onto its new perch. I quickly discovered the rack positioned the tent so that it's mounting rails were touching the roof and required some spacer.
I decided on a short section of 2" X 4" steel tubing.
I will have to create a unique "T-Bolt" to slide into the tent's extrusion and fit through one of the myriad or holes in the top of the rack.
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Well if your wife will sleep in that count your blessings. When I wanted to camp with my wife the minimum acceptable equipment was…
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230720/58c0b9a88bf5674fbde5f72b01049373.jpg)
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Well if your wife will sleep in that count your blessings. When I wanted to camp with my wife the minimum acceptable equipment was…
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230720/58c0b9a88bf5674fbde5f72b01049373.jpg)
i remember that set up!!!
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Well if your wife will sleep in that count your blessings. When I wanted to camp with my wife the minimum acceptable equipment was…
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230720/58c0b9a88bf5674fbde5f72b01049373.jpg)
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Copy that.
Couple thoughts
First I am rolling (conceding) on buying the fiver. Caveat: Farm must first sell...
Second, psychology
There is always a gladiator-based adventure vid playing in the background
Learned that trick by studying the Koreans and their brainwashing techniques.
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Here's how I solved the roof-to-tent clearance issue:
I cut small sections of steel tubing, 2" X 3" instead of the 2" x 4", then using that as a spacer welded up some "T-bolts that perfectly fit the aluminum extrusions from a 1.5" wide steel strap.
I used six clamps instead of the provided 4 clamps that didn't fit anyway!
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It fits very securely and with that done, I repositioned the backbone straps on the cargo rack.
I'm happy with this for now.
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And just as predicted, it settled about 1" ish lower. It still has some nose-down attitude, but with some camping cargo and two people, it might get to being level.
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Next having observed the cargo floor flex a little in the middle when, Chester, our large male Bernese Mountain Dog was jumping in, I decided to reinforce it with a 1" aluminum angle.
That's probably going to be it as far as mods before we depart on the mountain adventure next week. I may fit a shovel, a jack, and an axe, I have to see. I am camping at an improved forestry service camp site so I probably won't need all that much pioneering equipment. Perhaps I'll trade it for some good DVD's and an I-pad for movie(s) night!!!!!
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Oh, and I ditched the cheapo plastic wheel caps.
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Take the measurement with an old armee pilot sitting in it.
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Take the measurement with an old armee pilot sitting in it.
It be like saggin' to the ground, bro
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1st time open!
I waited until the Pre-Ranger's going away party, which was today. Tomorrow, he ships out to Ft. Benning to begin his Army career. Kat crawled up in there along with a bunch of the grandkids. It seems they all fit well.
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We sort of used it as a sun shelter, but the kids treated it more like a tree fort.
There is an abundance of room in there.
The next stop is a national forest at about 3,000 feet.
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Yeah, as long as the kids don’t snore….
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Or you get a foot in the face or headbutt
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I have seen it. It is a great looking capable rig.
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I have seen it. It is a great looking capable rig.
Thanks Matt!
I think the first time it was out on the trails was the approach to your house! Our GPS took us on a shortcut through almost four miles of forest on some hunting reserve and through a mud hole. So got a cherry there in Georgia.
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So, we just completed our first summer "Adventure in the Jeep,
Kentucky to Ashville for the Biltmore, then to Hilton Head for beach time, then to Savannah to visit Matt and Kathy. Then we returned to the vicinity of Ashville for camping and exploring in Pisgah National Forest, then over to Maggie Valley N.C. to visit more friends, then back to the Tuck.
Post operations review: In a few words, Surprisingly, it all went quite well!
The trip we just completed started with a 6+ hour drive at 63, then 65, then 68mph from Kentucky to Ashville where we toured the Biltmore estate. We had adequate power for the most part, and the mileage varied between 15.5 to 17.2.
The next leg was from Ashville to vcty Savannah then thereabouts for a week. That went well too, no worries, although mileage slipped to 15 with all the stop-and-go slow driving.
The next leg was from Savanah up to near Mount Pisgah in the forest where we camped and wheeled for a few more days.
The Jeep showed its colors there with great slow and at-speed dirt road/trail riding. We had it all the way up to 4,900 ft on dirt and later took a drive over to Mount Mitchell at 6,600 for some hiking. The jeep ran very well on the Blue Ridge Parkway. No real power issues, nor brake fade after going downhill for 5+ miles at a time.
We carried all the stuff two people would need to camp and vacation along with my Fishbone rack and IKamper Skycamp.
The final leg home netted us another 17+ mpg at 68-72 mph with most down at the lower number.
So, I am surprised to say, the heavy gladiator did just fine with the wee-wittle 6 cyl engine.
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Now we have one "Adventure in the books!
THe first outing with the tent proved to be a success. We covered five states and up to 6,600 feet in altitude. We were down in the humid deep south and well up into the mountains of North Carolina.
I consider this first outing as a test to see how the tent worked out, and to see what we needed to change/add/delete.
We identified the following items:
1. You definitely need a step ladder of some kind to more easily pack up the tent when tearing down camp. I had carried a 2- step, and I think a 3-step would fit the bill.
2. The IKamper factory mattress is unsat and needs an upgrade
3. The tent is hot above 70's farenheit.
4. You need shelter from the rain, we had none.
5. We did not cook food, so we will have to add that capability.
6. We started off with our existing mummy type sleeping bags. With all the room in the tent, a square bottom bag more generous in proportions would be nice.
7. Sleeping on an angle is no fun, so some leveling device is needed.
8. We started out with Coleman action packers, the ones I used in the Army, but the new ones are thinner and in the heat failed to keep their shape. I am now using them for hard items such as tools. Our other plastic bins, however did hold up.
9. We seemed to work off the tailgate a lot, so I think we will make that into a work station and build that out some.
10. We did not need heat, but our next big trip up to the Alpine Loop in Colorado is coming right up in September. Looking at forecasts at the 11,000 ft campsites, we will likely see 30F temps.
11. The Roto mold cooler we use for warm weather works great. Ice can hang around for 4 days!
12. The Apple GPS and SIRI are absolutely horrible. Using just the UCOMMECT factory jeep road nav is much better, but full of glitches.
A. The On-X off-road trail GPS nav software is really good. We will use that more.
13. We need some satellite communications for emergencies. The phone service in the mountains was nonexistent. I am thinking of purchasing the Garmin 67I nav/satellite test unit for safety and back-country hiking (Which we did).
So, it's off to solving for what we know we need and some of that is already done. So far, I picked up the 3-step ladder, some leveling blocks and a really cool 270-degree awning. I will post that stuff when it gets here.
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Sounds like you need to pull your camp trailer you build, heat, ac, shelter from rain, kitchen sink …
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I bring a small stool all the time if items are up top. Standing on a tire or similar never seems to work.
Angles are no good, I like air mattresses, light and you can get anything.
Unless you prechill, nice coolers dont' last much more than 2 days. I found blocks or 12v coolers work great. Had the 12v cooler in the container for a year plus now.
Regular GPS has taken me to foot bridges while driving, not fun.
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Sounds like you need to pull your camp trailer you build, heat, ac, shelter from rain, kitchen sink …
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As much as I'd like to the Gladiator can barely pull itself let alone a trailer of any kind. I will actually be removing the tow hitch from it soon.
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I bring a small stool all the time if items are up top. Standing on a tire or similar never seems to work.
Angles are no good, I like air mattresses, light and you can get anything.
Unless you prechill, nice coolers dont' last much more than 2 days. I found blocks or 12v coolers work great. Had the 12v cooler in the container for a year plus now.
Regular GPS has taken me to foot bridges while driving, not fun.
I found the Apple nav system would routinely route us through alleys and back streets instead of just going one more block to an intersection and a turn. I give it a solid "Fail" and unreliable for routine use.
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I use google maps which does an ok job unless on a goat trail…..
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I use google maps which does an ok job unless on a goat trail…..
Alec one google maps,
What’s the tow capacity of that jeap?
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I use google maps which does an ok job unless on a goat trail…..
Alec one google maps,
What’s the tow capacity of that jeap?
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Well that is somewhat confusing. I believe the gasser can tow up to around 7,000 lbs.
So, in my opinion, that motor would do a darned poor job pulling that much weight. Secondly, with a family of four and camping gear, the Gladiator is already at or over MGWT. Maybe if you pull the roof and doors off, leave everyone home, depart with 1 gallon of gas in the tank and dump a couple of quarts of radiator fluid you just might get near the 7K, but that would be in a Willeys model without all the add-ons found in a Rubicon.
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Did you ever scale the pop up trailer?
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Did you ever scale the pop up trailer?
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Scale??
You mean sell?
I have not sold the pop up camper. I play around with it from time to time.
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Think he’s referring to the weight of the trailer boss.
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Think he’s referring to the weight of the trailer boss.
Did you scale the trailer?
Drive over a truck scale and get a final build weight?
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Think he’s referring to the weight of the trailer boss.
Did you scale the trailer?
Drive over a truck scale and get a final build weight?
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Oh, my bad!
No, I never did...not yet.
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It would be interesting to see real world numbers. You pulled it with the burb which was a boat anchor in its own right.
Not sure if ya pulled it with your 12’ Duramax. Which would make that trailer all but non existent
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13. We need some satellite communications for emergencies. The phone service in the mountains was nonexistent. I am thinking of purchasing the Garmin 67I nav/satellite test unit for safety and back-country hiking (Which we did).
Emergency Comms:
Garmin Inreach mini 2
Nav:
Garmin Foretrex 801
Unless you have forewarning of trips, then map and compass as backup.
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13. We need some satellite communications for emergencies. The phone service in the mountains was nonexistent. I am thinking of purchasing the Garmin 67I nav/satellite test unit for safety and back-country hiking (Which we did).
Emergency Comms:
Garmin Inreach mini 2
Nav:
Garmin Foretrex 801
Unless you have forewarning of trips, then map and compass as backup.
I’ll second the In reach.
They work well. Everywhere.
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Mountain House single serve packs and a MSR Reactor backpack stove is all you need for food. Light and doesnt take up space.
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I use a single burner butane stove you can get about anywhere. Works great and about 1/2 the size of a coleman, used to be $20.
I have a couple tubs of that mountain house, not bad really but gotten way $$$
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Good suggestions, thanks!
We went Blackstone shopping this morning and crap canned the whole idea. Staying with the 2-burner Eureka and 16" fry/grill plate I already have.
Working on aux lighting at the moment. Utilizing some under-vehicle light kit Kat found for a couple of bucks used, I am repurposing those LED strips. One for the bed, one for inside the tent, and another for beneath the tailgate for some camp mood lighting. The cool part is they are color adjustable so we can run a red, insect-defeating illumination outside to see where we are stepping while avoiding hoards of skitters.
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For the backcountry hiking/camping my wife and I do we have a Jetboil. One person carries the small fuel cans, one person carries the JetBoil. It's lightweight and does all we need it to do but we also plan out meals for each day and meal and individually pack the meals.
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For the backcountry hiking/camping my wife and I do we have a Jetboil. One person carries the small fuel cans, one person carries the JetBoil. It's lightweight and does all we need it to do but we also plan out meals for each day and meal and individually pack the meals.
I have heard of those. If we get up to doing Cirque de towers in Wyoming next year, I'll need that bc it is all packing on foot.
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Mileage and performance report for the trip:
Number of days: 11
States visited: Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia
Total miles: 1751.4
Fuel used: (Reg unleaded w/methanol) 109.59 Gal
Average mileage for the entire trip: 15.98 mpg
Worst tank full: 13.02 mpg
Best mileage: 17.22 mpg
Cruising speed: 63mph-69mph
Altitude encountered: 584 AMSL- 6,640 AMSL
Notes: With a light overland load (No food prep and a minimalist approach, but also with normal vacation baggage for a 5-day beach stay) the vehicle performance was satisfactory. Using the stated parameters as a baseline, I conclude there is no need to upgrade the powertrain to a V8. The cruising speed was low but comfortable. I was the slowest thing on the highway, roughly approximating the freight/semi-traffic. With a more top-heavy and less aerodynamic vehicle that does not have an abundance of power, I found it uncomfortable to loiter in the left lane where traffic would approach quickly. The slow march speed resulted in the need for an additional stop or two to use facilities or stretch out and therefore made for a couple longer than anticipated driving days.
All in all, the trip showed the Gladiator to be a great platform to take a regular or an overlanding trip in. Speaking of the overland portion. We spent several days in Pisque national forest camping and exploring. I did use 4WD a little but did not even air down so if anything, I would say we only did light obstacles. Most of the wilder access trails were blocked off by the US Forest Service so that in itself prevented us from really testing this higher CG configuration with our IKamper roof tent.
The next trip is already planned and set with some minor outings in between to test out new things as I add them.
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Sounds like a good trip. I would bet the tire size costs you some mileage. They look great but lots of drag, regeared or not.
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Sounds like a good trip. I would bet the tire size costs you some mileage. They look great but lots of drag, regeared or not.
I agree.
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I am looking at the same for my Tahoe. I get a little rubbing and want a narrower smaller tire, like 32/11.5.
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I am looking at the same for my Tahoe. I get a little rubbing and want a narrower smaller tire, like 32/11.5.
Did you view the study on narrow vs wide tires I posted up a little while ago? In the tires/wheels section.
I will stay narrow on the jeep and when I do upgrade tires on the Ram will go with a metric/narrower profile vs those stupidly wide 13.50 gas burners.
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Update: Another weekend camping trip in the bag. Went over to Clifty Falls, IN for some hiking. I wanted to try out the new air mattresses.
DNR: State Parks: Clifty Falls State Park (in.gov)
I purchased the large and dual and the single Qomotop self-inflatable mattresses.
For the purpose of this trip, we just tossed them on top of the existing IKamper mattresses. That was a big step up in comfort and made for a good night's sleep.
I did not upgrade to lighting or fans at this point and both of those were sorely missed. I suppose they are next in Queue. No bears this time, just some noisy bikers and a bunch of kids. I ride and I love kids, so it's all good!
Last night I ordered a 5lb Propane bottle, a mount, and a six-foot hose. For the upcoming Colorado trip, I will be using my 2-burner Eureka stove with a rectangular grill plate. So that is coming.
The Awning is in and I should have that installed within the week.
So, question time:
I will need an electrical power source for the lights and the fans if used, and I will be adding a diesel heater and a 50 qt sized 12VDC frig. for the Alpine loop trip. So, I will obviously be adding a secondary electrical power source.
My thoughts go to something like the Jackery 1000 or possibly 1500 along with some sort of management panel/bus system and necessary wiring.
My questions are:
What is working for current overlanders with a similar setup?
How much reserve power do I need?
Should I charge it off of the Jeep's alternator or an independent solar system?
Buy a Red Arc system or put together my own?
What am I missing?
*I will ultimately select the lightest system that fits my minuscule power demands.
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My 12v fridge works great. It has an ice tray too but I rarely use it, just a hassle but it works fine. You hear it running when it kicks on and has an Eco and max mode. I leave it on eco and it keeps a bunch of drinks about 35 with no problem. It was running on a 100amp agm, charging that off 200 watts solar. Never went down. Now its on 800amp lithium, way over kill but hey.
I have had 2 (returned) and looking at a 3rd power station. Jackery is not cheap and uses regular lithium. I am looking at an Acemo 1350 unit, about $600. I'm not looking at name brand but good reviews and warranty. Unless you plan on packing it around, get a 1500 sized (about 30lb) and be sure it has lifePO cells. I would look at one or two, 100 watt flexible panels and charge when parked. Charge when you drive too but this way you don't need to start the jeep.
Everyone seems to to love those little diesel heaters, I just have a little buddy propane unit. I have a dewalt 20v fan, but got a little 12v cieling fan for camping
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No time to dilly-dally here.
100Ah LIPO battery/charge controller/cables and a 175W flexible panel on order
Also ordered a 50 qt 12VDC fridge.
Need advice on which diesel heater to pick up? 5K or 8K?
The thing is we launch on the 20th of Sep, so have to get everything here so I can mount/sort everything before leaving.
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Ordered the diesel heater, I think I mentioned the frig, a 5-lb propane bottle/mount/line for cooking.
The concept of the operation is to get everything in and start to see how it might all fit in the Jeep bed. I'll get everything mounted and where I like it, then I'll create an electrical box that is waterproof and start bringing all this home.
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From what research I have read on the china heaters: the 5k vs 8k are one n the same unit.
Check your Facebook and I’ll send you a link there to a Chinese diesel heater group with lots of info and purchase info
Can you mount a hard panel to the roof of that tent deal?
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Lipo, not Lifepo4? Lipos are the ones that can burn but not common. Lifepo have a much better life but 100amp might be OK.
50 qt is huge!, think Im around 25 but keep more drinks than food in it (normally get food for the trip. About 1/3rd of mine is motor, no separate freezer. I actually got a little icemaker if I want ice, 110v. The fridge will freeze but then you can turn back up (bluetooth)
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From what research I have read on the china heaters: the 5k vs 8k are one n the same unit.
Check your Facebook and I’ll send you a link there to a Chinese diesel heater group with lots of info and purchase info
Can you mount a hard panel to the roof of that tent deal?
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Thanks Dave. I just ordered a diesel heater that the Overland group folks use with great success...Only $199!
I am going to mount a flexy 175-watt solar panel to the roof with double-sided trim tape. That's what others do. The panel has been ordered, a Renology 175W flexible panel at 6.2 pounds...Still being weight conscious!
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Lipo, not Lifepo4? Lipos are the ones that can burn but not common. Lifepo have a much better life but 100amp might be OK.
50 qt is huge!, think Im around 25 but keep more drinks than food in it (normally get food for the trip. About 1/3rd of mine is motor, no separate freezer. I actually got a little icemaker if I want ice, 110v. The fridge will freeze but then you can turn back up (bluetooth)
LiPO4
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084DB36KW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
Yea, 50 is a good size. I am thinking of all the food for a 3 day trip.
I have a 75 qt ICECO, and a 75 qt rotomolded. I also have a 25 qt rotomolded that I have been using but takes Ice every 3-4 days. But no more of that nonsense!!!!
Oh and check out that battery. Light weight mini. I am keeping a sharp eye on the weight budget.
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Have inbounds from multiple sources.
Let's discuss arranging all this stuff if we can so I can solicit ideas from the smart folks (Aviators are daring, but not smart...But we do get all the pretty girls ;-)
OK, I think the 5 lb. propane tank goes aft on the driver's side way up high.
I am feeling the frig is mounted on a slide-out tray on the right side and pushed aft as much as possible.
Right in front of that, I am envisioning a sturdy hard plastic waterproof shipping case for the battery and electrical components which I think should be mounted off the floor to free up space but also keep it out of standing/puddling water. I would like to keep the floor cleared for cargo if possible. So a bedside/rear hoop mounting. I think I would like to at least set the heater in a fixture held down by a strap that I could remove seasonally. The rest of the bed is a couple of action packers for stuff, a table and chairs and whatever else pops up.
Thoughts?
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Are you mounting water and fuel on the side racks?
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Are you mounting water and fuel on the side racks?
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I think I will carry 1 gal of diesel for the heater, 2.5 gal of gas just in case, and a standard NATO 5-gal water jug
Build starts tomorrow
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Why not this?
https://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/models/eu1000i
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From what research I have read on the china heaters: the 5k vs 8k are one n the same unit.
Check your Facebook and I’ll send you a link there to a Chinese diesel heater group with lots of info and purchase info
Can you mount a hard panel to the roof of that tent deal?
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Thanks Dave. I just ordered a diesel heater that the Overland group folks use with great success...Only $199!
I am going to mount a flexy 175-watt solar panel to the roof with double-sided trim tape. That's what others do. The panel has been ordered, a Renology 175W flexible panel at 6.2 pounds...Still being weight conscious!
Well what is it?
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Why not this?
https://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/models/eu1000i
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I went with the lithium battery solution. Water over the dam...
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From what research I have read on the china heaters: the 5k vs 8k are one n the same unit.
Check your Facebook and I’ll send you a link there to a Chinese diesel heater group with lots of info and purchase info
Can you mount a hard panel to the roof of that tent deal?
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Thanks Dave. I just ordered a diesel heater that the Overland group folks use with great success...Only $199!
I am going to mount a flexy 175-watt solar panel to the roof with double-sided trim tape. That's what others do. The panel has been ordered, a Renology 175W flexible panel at 6.2 pounds...Still being weight conscious!
Well what is it?
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I have purchased the following items and will be installing:
Lithium battery
solar panel
Solar charge regulator
5 lb propane tank/lines/mount
LED light strips
Fans
Diesel heater
50 qt 12VDC fridge
Fridge slide
The stuff is piling up now.
Once I get the big things I want to lay them out in the bed to see the fit/function.
I will create some smart electrical control panel/box
Then I need to mount something like the stackable work boxes...I have some Bosch laying around to carry everything else
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All your problems solved
https://bruderx.com/exp-7/
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All your problems solved
https://bruderx.com/exp-7/
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Gonna get fired agsin Charles…
But they nice!
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All your problems solved
https://bruderx.com/exp-7/
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Those Aussies build some incredible stuff!
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So I got after the Overland hardening of the back end of the Gladiator in preparation for the Colorado trip which is coming right up. Parts are rolling in 2X daily
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Did I mention that I hate iPhones, and actually, most things Apple...Except for an actual apple. I like those.
OK so I have not the energy to fix another set of sideways pics that will detail the beginning of the awning installation.
I used some heavy wall Aluminum angle to extend the fishbone rack and give me a good flat to work off of.
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The Awning was chosen because of its strength and lightness. This one does not require legs unless it is deployed in gusty winds. I am not sure I concur with that assessment having done many nights in the California desert where we saw wind speeds of 70 mph.
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Although I had installed nutserts into the 3/16" aluminum angle, when I tightened the bolts, the nutserts pulled through (Learning experience there) so I ended up going with 5/16" bolts
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I positioned that to pull up close to the rear of the tent.
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With that done, I unboxed the battery and looked that over. I think I will be creating a project box for it.
It, too was fairly light at just over 21 and a half pounds. I noted it was heavier than the same rated power Braille battery I used earlier.
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And in this set, you can see the difference in the mattress heights. The factory IKamper is nearly 2" each and has low density that allows your hip bone to get straight into the hard floor with ease.
The new Motop air inflatable/self-inflating is shorter in height.
I chose these because, I wanted/needed more comfort, I wanted better insulation, and finally, with the reduced storage height, I can possibly close the top with a sleeping bag still up there.
You are looking at one mattress on top of another and all that comes in a bit more than half the original height. When inflated, each air mattress increases to 4" in height.
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Next, I started installing the LED waterproof light bars. So far, one in the overhead channel of the Fishbone rack, and a second on the bottom of one of the awning legs. That design layout is going to evolve.
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Sorting through the electrical (stand-alone) system at the moment
Battery/electrical box construction in progress
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New 50-Qt frig
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That awning looks nice.
I think those are the same batteries I have, but 200AH. So far they have been great.
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That awning looks nice.
I think those are the same batteries I have, but 200AH. So far they have been great.
Good to hear!
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Haven't worked on anything for over a week due to some significant healt issues.
I think I am ahead of it for a time, so I'm back in it.
I have a lot of little projects to pull together to get the rig assembled enough for the western trip. Launch time is coming right up later on in September.
I have to mount a solar panel and create an electrical distribution and power center. Mount a slide for the fridge, mount a gas bottle, and figure out the new pack-out arrangement. Additionally, I want to take Kat and visit REI or a similar store to pick up the warm stuff we will need.
Now this trip is a strange one, kind of like the last one. We begin with a 3+ day visit to Grapevine, TX (Dallas vcty) for a reunion of an Army aviation unit I once flew for. We are all family and I would not miss that. But it will be 100 degrees hot, and we will be hanging out, eating, taking in the sights. So the dress there is casual/shorts, "T's" and sandals. Leaving there it takes a two-day drive to get to Taos where we should fall way back to the 70's and chilly evenings. That means hoodies/jeans/shoes. (People in Kentucky do not always wear shoes ;-) But from there we will be in Silverton/Lake City/Ouray/Telluride, CO., and way up high above 12,000 feet where we may see a snow flurry or two. We will be living out of the Jeep. That's why I bought the diesel heater for the tent and why I think I am opting for two stuffable parkas and maybe even a down comforter + the sleeping bags.
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I built that battery box to the point of needing a coating, and that's when I reassessed and canned it.
Simply put, it weighs too much. I'd place it at between 25-30 pounds.
Instead, I will procure a stout toolbox and create the power center. I would still like to mount it above the bed rail to keep everything open.
Additionally, if I can source a couple of pieces of "C" channel aluminum, I think I can get the step ladder securely held on the underside of the top of the rack.
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Why not a dewalt or Milwaukee pack out type box? Should be fairly easy to waterproof it if it isn’t already and with Milwaukee I’m pretty sure they have mounts for them too.
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Why not a dewalt or Milwaukee pack out type box? Should be fairly easy to waterproof it if it isn’t already and with Milwaukee I’m pretty sure they have mounts for them too.
I'm using the Menards brand box...It's about 50% complete at the moment
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Glad you better Don, just had my turn too.
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Glad you better Don, just had my turn too.
Well, as it turns out, not quite through the storm...Ever heard of Rheumatoid Arthritis? I am being tested for it and have it or not, I can say it is a real B_tch. The all-over body pain is one thing but having lost now about 75% of my muscle strength and the sore joints is really interfering with my work. I am getting maybe 2 hours a day max on the Jeep. Looks like I am going to be departing for the trip in an incomplete state. But I have been getting some things done.
Just the hand I have been dealt but my choice about how to play that hand. I choose to push ahead.
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So I have set things up, then changed it up, then redone that yet again.
I was wrestling with the huge amount of space the frig slide was taking up in the bed, just witness the sheep of plywood representative of the thing's footprint. Additionally, that darned IronMan off-road slide must weigh every bit of 40 pounds. It just seems like dumb weight to me, and although I paid a pretty penny for it, I hated infusing it into the overall design.
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I was discussing it with Kat at breakfast and she suggested we just put it in the back seat so we can access it while going down the road like we did with the existing cooler.
And just like that, I saw the simple brilliance of her suggestion. No complicated/permanent/heavy mount. I place the cooler in the back seat for the trip, then pull it out and store it when not overlanding...That was easy!
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That Renogy 175-watt roof panel is only about 1/4" thick and weighs in under five pounds. Mounting it was super easy. I have successfully used that industrial Gorilla tape for permanent repairs in the past. I went to it to fasten everything down with the solar panel. I ran two overlapping seams on the sides and three on the ends. The panel naturally laid over the crown of the roof. I did use some 3/4" foam strip from where the center ridge drops away to fill the gap.
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Here is that Menards toolbox I changed into the battery box and electrical control and distribution center.
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I am keeping everything as simple and as light as I can. I decided to just build some retainer blocks that drop into the box that secures the battery. Since the interior of the box has all these prominent raised ridges, I just placed saw cuts into the base pieces to lock them into position.
With this system, the battery can barely move at all.
I later used urethane bed liner to seal them.
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After drilling some holes between the adjacent "Cells" in the lid, I used expanding gorilla glue to secure them in place. The solar controller, ground bus, and fuse panel attach to the lid:
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While waiting on all that to cure and set up, I mounted the 5-lb propane bottle
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And more battery box build-out:
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Didn't you have 2 batteries?
RA, that sucks. I still feel tipsy, balance is off.
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Didn't you have 2 batteries?
RA, that sucks. I still feel tipsy, balance is off.
Should only need 1
Heater during the night time, and fridge which is already sitting in some low temps during the day.
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Sorry to hear about the RA. There are several good meds nowadays. Remicade is one. Every 8 week infusion but works wonders.
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Sorry to hear about the RA. There are several good meds nowadays. Remicade is one. Every 8 week infusion but works wonders.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
I am waiting to get in at the moment. Not sure if that's what I have but acting like that.
I started eating clean a month ago and am approaching 20 pounds lost and my blood chemistry is perfect. Exercising every day, even if it hurts. BP tonight was 118/66 and that's typical. I may be hurting, but I am getting much healthier!
Getting the Jeep more and more prepped every day. Have a date in Texas on the 20th with a bunch of old friends, so have to be ready for that and the mountain adventure right afterward
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I use one 100ah agm for a couple years on 200watt panel setup. I think it pushed it but never shut down. My cooler is smaller. Lithium works better and 2 are lighter than the one, but space?
Hope you feel better. I am working on myself some also after my latest wake up. I had lost 20+, more coming.
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I use one 100ah agm for a couple years on 200watt panel setup. I think it pushed it but never shut down. My cooler is smaller. Lithium works better and 2 are lighter than the one, but space?
Hope you feel better. I am working on myself some also after my latest wake up. I had lost 20+, more coming.
Good for you!!!
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Well, still working at a snail's pace, but working nonetheless.
Man, mobility is the key to everything...
I was able to route the wires to bring Lithium battery power into the rear of the cabin. Now that supplies power to the fridge.
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Then I tried generation 1 of the tie-down straps and afterwards was completely under-impressed.
So I changed to a better option:
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I am already using that thing to cool my water bottles!
Next, I finalized the Lithium battery location. I had to drill a couple of holes in the bed, into which, I inserted Nutserts fittings that are permanent.
I removed the factory tie down as it will not be reused.
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The electrical system is now up and running and seems to be working as advertised.
I dropped another toolbox onto the top of the battery business that currently is filled with recovery gear. I am not sure if that is where I am going to keep it as it will be difficult to access when I need it.
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I removed the Roto pack 2-gallon water can because I will be carrying 5-gal NATO water cans. In its place I tossed on a 3-gal gas tank, and a smaller 1-gal fuel can on the other side I will clearly mark, "Diesel." That will be extra fuel for the heater.
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I needed a spot for awning poles and my fishing rod, so I suspended a 4" piece of PVC.
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Great progress. Much improved since I saw it.
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Then with some flexibility created through morning walks, Tylenol, and a ton of painful stretching, I got after adding airbags to the rear springs.
Even though I am using the Clayton "Overland" springs, I am still seeing some settling.
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The instructions tell you to stuff them into the spring through an opening in the coils. They must have had Hercules as the test fitter because there was no way I could make that happen.
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I preheated them by laying them out in the sun on my son's ugly BMW and I flattened the air out of them, but after one miserably difficult failed attempt, I tossed the towel in and pulled both rear springs and mounted them easily.
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I cycled the suspension some and it all seems to fit, although the air bags are not tall enough to touch at each end.
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Take a look at the brake line that has been touching the sidewall of the tire! I placed too loose loops of zip-ties to hold that extended brake line away from the tire. Should fix it.
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Great progress. Much improved since I saw it.
:likebutton:
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Lots of good little upgrades. I am still not 100% either, that infection drained me!
Funny, I have been looking for coil air bag for the tahoe. Just for a little extra when needed.
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Lots of good little upgrades. I am still not 100% either, that infection drained me!
Funny, I have been looking for coil air bag for the tahoe. Just for a little extra when needed.
Either Air Lift or Firestone. I like the supplied airlines for the Firestone bags best, hence my decision.
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Did the Firestone from summit. Had $100 credit from the 6BT adapter and firestone makes most big rig bags.
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I found Amazon a cheap place to order Dog tags, I then ordered a few “Mixed” “diesel”, “clear” tags then used some small 1/8” wire and cable crimps to permanently attach to my gas cans for the atv, dirtbikes, mowers. It made for an easy way to identify what’s in what, kids can read what’s on each can and I don’t mix or cross cans when using them for three different machines all using different fuel
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:likebutton:
Did the Firestone from summit. Had $100 credit from the 6BT adapter and firestone makes most big rig bags.
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I found Amazon a cheap place to order Dog tags, I then ordered a few “Mixed” “diesel”, “clear” tags then used some small 1/8” wire and cable crimps to permanently attach to my gas cans for the atv, dirtbikes, mowers. It made for an easy way to identify what’s in what, kids can read what’s on each can and I don’t mix or cross cans when using them for three different machines all using different fuel
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Thats an interesting idea!
I was going to just buy a paint pen, but that little 1-gal is the only one I own now, so easy to distinguish. Having said that, labeling of some sort is in order.
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I found Amazon a cheap place to order Dog tags, I then ordered a few “Mixed” “diesel”, “clear” tags then used some small 1/8” wire and cable crimps to permanently attach to my gas cans for the atv, dirtbikes, mowers. It made for an easy way to identify what’s in what, kids can read what’s on each can and I don’t mix or cross cans when using them for three different machines all using different fuel
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Thats an interesting idea!
I was going to just buy a paint pen, but that little 1-gal is the only one I own now, so easy to distinguish. Having said that, labeling of some sort is in order.
Paint it OD green, and be done. Easy! ;-)
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Air bags are in and working as advertised. Firestone makes good stuff!
Air valves located either side of the license plate
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I also installed the 3" aluminum C-channel that is the travel location for the 3-step ladder/stool.
Trying to set up the bed with specific spots for everything. Concept of the operation is:
1. Secured for travel
2. Easy visual check for inventory purposes
3. Quick setup/teardown
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I found Amazon a cheap place to order Dog tags, I then ordered a few “Mixed” “diesel”, “clear” tags then used some small 1/8” wire and cable crimps to permanently attach to my gas cans for the atv, dirtbikes, mowers. It made for an easy way to identify what’s in what, kids can read what’s on each can and I don’t mix or cross cans when using them for three different machines all using different fuel
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Thats an interesting idea!
I was going to just buy a paint pen, but that little 1-gal is the only one I own now, so easy to distinguish. Having said that, labeling of some sort is in order.
Paint it OD green, and be done. Easy! ;-)
I like OD green :cool:
and
you know that! :evil:
Possible violation of good camper rules :police:
Attempting to tempt/sway Big D :police: :police:
Be careful!
;-)
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Seperate air valves for a reason?
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Seperate air valves for a reason?
Yes. I am going to do mission weight/ride height measurements using the original ride height measurements
Left side: Driver, two action packers, awning, 3 gal fuel, air pump, 2-5gal NATO water cans
Right side: Fuel tank, possible passenger, mission box action packer, battery box, sleeping gear
Evenly distributed: RTT, ladder, recovery gear bag, Fridge, heater
During the last off-road trip, I ended up with a right-side droop. No clue as to why, but it was 3/4" lower on the right side. The airbags are my attempt to level things despite load configuration or even spring deterioration which seems to be a common thing in the JT
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My f250 I setup with seperate valves and prefer this method when not running a compressor system. Shorter lines, less connections, KISS principle (especially on a truck that may, notice I said may see something more severe that the standard mulch bed). I ran mine into pinch weld in the wheel well as there was a hole already punched in not being used.
Looking good Don :likebutton:
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Here's the twin-cylinder air pump I selected. Its a bit heavy, but the old single-cyl HF unit takes forever to air anything up. This one is SO MUCH BETTER!
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I tested it to see how long it would take to air up from a mild trail pressure of 20psi up to the 37 I run in the tire on the highway.
The old unit would take around 6-7 min, which is alot when considering you have to air up three more tires when you're done.
This thing did it in just under 1 min and 30 seconds!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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After testing the lug wrench, I discovered it was a bit too large, so I added a good wrench and called that done. I will not be lugging around a Hi-lift jack and rely, instead, on the stocker.
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Next up, I added some new stuff to the recovery kit. I tossed the old tree strap and picked up a really hefty HF 4" x 8' strap. I still carry an anemic 2" tug strap, and also added a flex shackle. That leaves me with three shackles total, which gets the job done.
Those gloves have been in there since 2012!
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Although I tossed that stuff into a hard case, I later returned it to the soft bag it came in.
Looking at the tool kit, I scrutinized everything> I had some parts for a Suburban in there and tools I had never used. The goal was to get all that lighter if I could while still being useable. I did manage to drop a few pounds. I then picked up another Menards hard box and made that the new toolbox. That mounts on top of the battery box and is held down by a newly installed strap system.
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That is nice and compact.
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Here is a view of the new tent diesel heater all assembled.
The plan is to create a mound that temporarily slides into the fishbone rack which holds the heater somewhere beneath the folded-out tent.
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Today, I tossed the old camp stove and purchased a single-burner BlackStone unit. It attaches directly to the bottle and line I already have. I positioned it on the tailgate. but liked it much better on the folding table.
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Next, I fabed up that mount for the heater and then adapted a dryer vent hose to supply the heated air up and through a window into the tent.
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Looks like your building a space ship.
Straps are nice as well as soft shackles, but look at a kinetic rope. I got mine from Tater.
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Looks like your building a space ship.
Straps are nice as well as soft shackles, but look at a kinetic rope. I got mine from Tater.
Concur!
I like the one Tater sells
Here's my thinking: Those things are mostly for pulling out other people, not me, so, sure, I checked the block, but it's not as high a priority.
When I get into off-road western country, I plan to stop by some 4WD/outfitter shops along the way. Looking to possibly pick up a rope and a good set of deflators, and maybe an axe. Heck, there is a bunch of stuff that I have which is only marginal. Toilet facilities being one. I want to get out there amongst other adventurers and see what they are using. Most of the evenings in and around the San Juan mountains and Moab will be spent in the wild, possibly around others...
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To pull you out, maybe for others. Way less stress when pulling as you take the shock out of it. I still have my tree straps too. Got a similar setup for the Tahoe, one nice recovery bag.
Compressor I got was the Slime, dual like yours. Nice hard case. I had/have a couple of the HF singles, they are a chore but work.
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Looking squared away there, Chief. I’m probably paranoid, but with any heater running on fossil fuel it might be a good idea to add a CO monitor in the tent in case there is a crack in the exchanger.
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And fire extinguisher.
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Coming along nicely, I approve and agree with the last few comments / critiques. :likebutton:
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Looking squared away there, Chief. I’m probably paranoid, but with any heater running on fossil fuel it might be a good idea to add a CO monitor in the tent in case there is a crack in the exchanger.
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Not a bad idea.
With this one, you keep two windows partially open. Even then it is said to sometimes be uncomfortably warm. The concept there is a good exchange of air and also the removal of normal moisture from breathing.
Dunno, just a test dummy at this point, but in about two weeks I will be much more knowledgeable about these things.
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And fire extinguisher.
Fire extinguisher showing up today/tomorrow.
I am in a punchout process that I feel is somewhat logical. This morning we cleaned the truck from top to bottom and began loading it. The back seat will have the fridge, of course, and then all our sleeping gear in compression sacks. hose was "compressed this morning, save for one bag which I decided to launder.
BTW, I use Wiggys sleeping bags. He is the sole manufacturer of bags for ejection seats and Special operations folks. I actually have two well-used bags from those days. Great company
https://www.wiggys.com/sleeping-bags/
Also in the back will be a "cold wx clothing bag for overflow, the vehicle jack, air compressor, Winch handle/control, a dry goods food bag, and her pillow. Everything else is finding its way into the back.
I decided to bring the simple standard folding aluminum chairs with flip-up tables in lieu of the fancy stuff. Reason: It's lighter and stores well.
Continuing to fit out that space. Launch is zero dark early Wednesday morning. Destination is as far as I can get en route to GrapeVine Texas (Dallas).
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Don, don’t put too much trust into the simple basic chairs and or tables. Doesn’t take much off center movement to end up with a pile of bent up aluminum parts and pieces with some webbing that has pulled from the pop rivet that held it in place.
Enjoy your trip and meeting up with old friends. I agree, it is past time you and your wife need to spend some time doing whatever it is you been putting off for too long.
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Don, don’t put too much trust into the simple basic chairs and or tables. Doesn’t take much off center movement to end up with a pile of bent up aluminum parts and pieces with some webbing that has pulled from the pop rivet that held it in place.
Enjoy your trip and meeting up with old friends. I agree, it is past time you and your wife need to spend some time doing whatever it is you been putting off for too long.
Rog!
If they fail, we'll pick up something else.
About ready to go!
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Looking for one of these:
https://www.rei.com/product/182925/lifesaver-jerrycan-20000uf-water-purifier-185-liters
Thinking I was going to find one locally, I tricked myself. Now its too late to wait on an order...
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I'm a little concerned about the heater hanging outside the tent rack doomahicky. I'd be afraid of catching it on a rock or tree while negotiating an obstacle/narrow trail. It is outboard of the passenger side rails, isn't it?
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I'm a little concerned about the heater hanging outside the tent rack doomahicky. I'd be afraid of catching it on a rock or tree while negotiating an obstacle/narrow trail. It is outboard of the passenger side rails, isn't it?
Hmmm, seems I never answered you Sean
All of that gets packed up for the movement phase and installed for the RON locations where there is no vehicular movement.
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All of that gets packed up for the movement phase and installed for the RON locations where there is no vehicular movement.
Gotcha!
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The drawer system construction is underway:
http://real-man-truckworks-and-survival.com/index.php?topic=5477.new#new