Post by: Flyin6 on November 05, 2022, 07:45:31 PM
2022 AEV modified Rubicon Gladiator
It has the JT370 package which I liked because it has nearly everything a serious off-roader would want...And its factory warrantied!
AEV JT370
AEV JL RX Front Bumper
AEV Non-Winch Cover Plate
AEV Front Skid Plate
AEV 7000 Series LED Off-Road Lights
AEV Light Cover Kit
AEV 2.5" DualSport RT Suspension System
AEV Front Geometry Correction Brackets
AEV ProCal SNAP Module
AEV Alloy Wheels
37” Mud-Terrain or All-Terrain Tires
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensors
AEV 4.56 Axle Ratio Upgrade
AEV Jack Base
AEV Branding Package
AEV IP Cluster
AEV Logo Headrests
AEV Vehicle Build Plaque
Pic is from the AEV website, but mine is the same color and the same package. Mine differs in that it has the big 5-hole AEV wheels with the 37" BFG KM3's
Post by: Flyin6 on November 05, 2022, 07:51:35 PM
The 4.56 gears work well with the 37s and I have thus observed it to have gotten 16.4 and 18.2 on two different half tanks of fuel. Power is not there, but this time I really don't care.
The subtle paint treatments are pretty cool. Things like a body matching dash painting, a black painted interior, and a textured black front grill to name a few. The instrument cluster says, "AEV" instead of "Jeep."
So far, I really love this thing.
I can also say that you can easily sell a Tesla for exactly what you have in it!
Goodbye T-car, hello Jeep!!!!!!!
Post by: dave945 on November 05, 2022, 08:15:42 PM
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Post by: Bob Smith on November 05, 2022, 08:24:10 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 05, 2022, 08:42:15 PM
Well, that was kinda unexpected. Does this mean the suburban project is on hold?More than that.
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The Suburban project is now concluded and the vehicle is redundant
It is for sale and will probably going to a new home soon
Post by: Flyin6 on November 05, 2022, 08:49:00 PM
Man, you traded the EV in for a Jeep. Who would have thunk it.I liked it, but I guess I didn't like it enough
A couple of things killed it for me
I went out for a cup of soup. Pulling out of the parking lot, I scratched the wheel and did $500 in damage
I talked to Tesla about it, they advised me to purchase a set of winter tires/wheels for $3500. They said if I didn't, I might break a wheel driving in the winter or pothole season.
I also do not like how you can't see vehicles coming up on you on either side, then suddenly they magically appear on the screen. If a car is coming up on you fast you check, signal then begin to pull over you can hit that car. I nearly did several times.
Finally, it screams at you when you approach a painted line on the side of the road. It will scare you out of your skin. It did that to me while I was driving over to look at this Jeep. I decided right there I would not drive that car home if that Jeep could be purchased
All that, and I am much, much more a lifted Jeep guy than a fast T-car guy
Post by: Flyin6 on November 05, 2022, 09:06:30 PM
1. No bed liner
2. No winch
#1 is easy enough to fix, I'll need a winch. The Dealer said they put 10K warn winches in these jeeps.
What winch would you recommend?
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 05, 2022, 09:08:06 PM
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Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 05, 2022, 09:56:48 PM
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Post by: wyorunner on November 05, 2022, 10:05:57 PM
Post by: stlaser on November 05, 2022, 10:59:51 PM
Warn, expensive unit so it’s not the cheap chinaman import
Or go find an older one and build it with upgraded parts.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 07:44:53 AM
Welp……Shawn, which one? I see a Warn for around $850 that's a 10K, and another for around $2200...Which one?
Warn, expensive unit so it’s not the cheap chinaman import
Or go find an older one and build it with upgraded parts.
https://www.morris4x4center.com/warn-vr-evo-10-s-winch.html?msclkid=e812102d45321c4f66ba734a4f34f05a&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SHOP_L_VND_%20CATCH-ALL&utm_term=4582627035553625&utm_content=CATCH-ALL
I can tell you now I will not opt for the $2200 one
And what do you think about that new HF 12K fully integrated unit? Thoughts?
https://www.morris4x4center.com/warn-vr-evo-10-s-winch.html?msclkid=e812102d45321c4f66ba734a4f34f05a&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SHOP_L_VND_%20CATCH-ALL&utm_term=4582627035553625&utm_content=CATCH-ALL
And finally, I do not like the nose down attitude which will get a bit worse with 80 lbs of winch. OK to add a spacer to push it up 1.5"?
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 07:49:56 AM
1. Does Anyone else want to take over? (Daves being excepted of course...) You deserve better!
2. I apologize for the total lack of maturity (But I'm lovin' it!)
3. I apologize for the lack of consistency (But, come to think of it, I'm kinda' diggin' that too!)
4. And finally, from the bottom of my heart (Which goes down there a pretty long ways) I love all of youses! (really do!)
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 07:56:14 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 07:57:33 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 07:59:47 AM
Just like the stock steelie, the side pieces are removeable
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 08:02:20 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 08:03:30 AM
Wow
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 08:04:30 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 08:09:18 AM
At this point, I am thinking about the first trip...One I may be able to do without a winch. I think I want to look at all 1000+ miles of the KAT (Kentucky Adventure trail)
So early in my acquisitions, I am hoping to find some terrain/GPS mapping app that will display on the in-vehicle screen and from which I can build a file to keep and share
Looking for a bed lining, perhaps this week, and possibly a winch, and maybe those front spacers...maybe
Later on, for sure, that AEV snorkel with the dust swirler. That will keep me safe from being chalk 3 in a convoy on a dirt road and should I tip it too deeply into a stream or pond...
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 08:59:36 AM
https://motrr.com/winches/badlands-apex-12000-winch-review/
https://ruggeddriving.com/badland-apex-synthetic-12000-lb-wireless-winch-review/
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Badland+12000+apex+winch+on+aev+jeep&&view=detail&mid=7E40DD898983FD4A02797E40DD898983FD4A0279&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DBadland%2B12000%2Bapex%2Bwinch%2Bon%2Baev%2Bjeep%26qs%3Dn%26form%3DQBVDMH%26sp%3D-1%26pq%3Dbadland%2B12000%2Bapex%2Bwinch%2Bon%2Baev%2Bjeep%26sc%3D0-36%26sk%3D%26cvid%3D277687FA90E643A394DE33C90004F668%26ghsh%3D0%26ghacc%3D0%26ghpl%3D
Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 06, 2022, 09:15:34 AM
https://www.rubitrux.com/wrangler-jl-gladiator-jt-6-2l-hellcat-srt-supercharged-hemi-conversion-swap.html
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Post by: stlaser on November 06, 2022, 09:35:07 AM
Welp……Shawn, which one? I see a Warn for around $850 that's a 10K, and another for around $2200...Which one?
Warn, expensive unit so it’s not the cheap chinaman import
Or go find an older one and build it with upgraded parts.
https://www.morris4x4center.com/warn-vr-evo-10-s-winch.html?msclkid=e812102d45321c4f66ba734a4f34f05a&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SHOP_L_VND_%20CATCH-ALL&utm_term=4582627035553625&utm_content=CATCH-ALL
I can tell you now I will not opt for the $2200 one
And what do you think about that new HF 12K fully integrated unit? Thoughts?
https://www.morris4x4center.com/warn-vr-evo-10-s-winch.html?msclkid=e812102d45321c4f66ba734a4f34f05a&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SHOP_L_VND_%20CATCH-ALL&utm_term=4582627035553625&utm_content=CATCH-ALL
And finally, I do not like the nose down attitude which will get a bit worse with 80 lbs of winch. OK to add a spacer to push it up 1.5"?
You already know, it’s the $2200 one. I agree I won’t pay that for one, so I’d try to find an older 9k and just rebuild it with better parts for a third of the overall price. I literally buy these older winches many times in working condition for sub $500, yes I’m a hoarder of old good winches. I have several 8274’s I’ve bought for $150, even have a cool old ramsey winch I’m rebuilding but it’s pto driven. Then you can say you built something on this too. Yes a spacer on front spring is good idea, recall Duane’s issue with that years ago and you need adjustable lower control arms to keep front caster at +6 degrees. :wink:
Please refrain from HF junk on this please…..
Post by: stlaser on November 06, 2022, 10:15:54 AM
Love you brother. All in good fun. Here’s some temptation.
https://www.rubitrux.com/wrangler-jl-gladiator-jt-6-2l-hellcat-srt-supercharged-hemi-conversion-swap.html
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Friend of mine did this on a newer Jeep truck.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 06, 2022, 10:19:48 AM
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Post by: stlaser on November 06, 2022, 10:28:55 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/c7e2a8ced21e57baaab7fd781356e738.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/2a99c220daa7b8e0dbd5fafd94372f4a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/e32fe9a8c7d1f27659b08f6b88126ed2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/ec10a03a726dcebbe45f9376cd35fc4a.jpg)
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 02:03:40 PM
All this winch talk. When was the last time you use the winch on the Duramax? (https://media1.giphy.com/media/10tQozotSMgnja/giphy.gif)Funny, but I have only used my truck winch to winch out other people's stuck mowers and tractors and things like that. It's an ancient Australian (Prob Chinese) T-Rex brand that I had mounted on a bunch of different vehicles. Still works fine, but if I get further along selling the Suburban, I may toss it on that truck and keep the Burb's 13K unit.
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 02:08:15 PM
Don, here is the old school light bar look I think this truck needs. My buddies jku, old school daylighters. I love it!That's crazy!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/c7e2a8ced21e57baaab7fd781356e738.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/2a99c220daa7b8e0dbd5fafd94372f4a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/e32fe9a8c7d1f27659b08f6b88126ed2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/ec10a03a726dcebbe45f9376cd35fc4a.jpg)
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!. Lotza amp draw there
2. Won't fit with the soon to come AEV snorkel
3. I like it!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 06, 2022, 03:55:25 PM
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Post by: stlaser on November 06, 2022, 04:09:09 PM
Don, here is the old school light bar look I think this truck needs. My buddies jku, old school daylighters. I love it!That's crazy!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/c7e2a8ced21e57baaab7fd781356e738.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/2a99c220daa7b8e0dbd5fafd94372f4a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/e32fe9a8c7d1f27659b08f6b88126ed2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221106/ec10a03a726dcebbe45f9376cd35fc4a.jpg)
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!. Lotza amp draw there
2. Won't fit with the soon to come AEV snorkel
3. I like it!
Nah, new technology they’re led version something something…..
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 05:51:43 PM
Better order some of them plastic traction pads tooI have two already!
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So this is interesting
On board mileage calculator indicated 16.3 when I topped up from half a tank
Fuel quantity is going to be a problem...Will need more
Actual math:
Miles traveled 125.6
Fuel added: 7.668
Actual mileage: 16.3
A perfect agreement, hard to believe!
So learning curve. For that half tank, I was using 69-70 mph as the cruise speed/highway. I felt the engine was struggling some because it dropped a gear fairly often. But the winds were terrible, and the jeep was taking regular tours of both lanes on the highway (Unexpectedly!)
Today I dropped the cruise speed to 65 mph and right now the same fuel calculator is saying 20.3. My guess is I can push the mileage up to 18's by staying at 65 or below. This thing has a lot of parasitic drag.
Post by: stlaser on November 06, 2022, 07:04:12 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2022, 08:18:31 PM
I also ordered the AEV Winch mounting plate, which my JT does not have. While we all wrestle with the winch selection, I know for sure that I need some way to mount it, so I checked that box. I could have fabbed up something myself, but with this Jeep, I think I'll access the aftermarket first. I'll bet there is more product development here than anywhere else on any other vehicle. Might as well take advantage of it
Early on, I noticed the fuel tank is not large enough. I drive to town twice and around a bit and it takes 1/2 a tank. That dog won't hunt running in low range for a day or two. I'd rather not carry a bunch of 5-gal tanks, although that is an option. Started reading about those Aussie long-range tanks that add another 17 gallons bringing the jeep up to around 40 gallons total. Starting prices are in and around $2200, so, ya, that's a tough pill as well to swallow.
What I think I need most of all is to meet up the local Jeep crowd and get on a weekend outing PDQ to see for myself what I may need to do to this thing
So far, I have to say. I Love this truck, really hit a home run with me so far!
Post by: stlaser on November 06, 2022, 08:23:59 PM
Post by: Bob Smith on November 06, 2022, 09:33:12 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 09:27:24 AM
Just wondering, my jeep trots around in the hills from before daylight till darn near dark and includes around 15 paved road miles getting up to them. I have never used more that 1/2 tank of gas with a tank about the same as yours. Are you sure you need to spend that much money for capacity you most likely won’t need.That's a good point, Bob.
You're right in pointing out that I may be thinking I need all this extra fuel thing when I really don't know.
Thinking about it, I could easily add a small additional tank, but first, I want to get this truck back into the Daniel Boone National forest for a full day and see what it looks like after that to get an idea.
I may have something going for the upcoming weekend if I can work it out...Get some better data.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 10:30:47 AM
Check motobilt and genright to see if they have a tankNo fuel tanks that fit, thanks for the suggestion
Those folks have a lot of stuff for sure, but not so sure I need very much of it. Like I said to Bob, I think I'll just get it out on the trail and see how it works like it is.
But, every truck I have owned for the past decade, I think has always worn GLO diff covers. Would be a shame to change up that winning strategy on this one! So whatcha got for the jeep, Shawn?
-Big smiley face emoji-
Post by: EL TATE on November 07, 2022, 11:28:25 AM
Very nice jeep BTW.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 01:47:41 PM
99% chance you are not geared correctly for the tires. for most gladiators with addons and 37+ rubber 4.88 is a minimum requirement. you're likely to get away without re-gearing since it's a rubicon, but the trans will thank you for the change if you do it. Automatic right? I'm betting you're not touching the overdrives in its current configuration.It's upshifting to OD, Tate. Pretty sure of it. And yes, an 8-speed auto.
Very nice jeep BTW.
Would never think of regearing, it is what it is and I personally think AEV did a pretty good job of it. Are they your customer? Am I using Yukon parts inside those tiny-looking axles.
That's the only thing that makes me nervous is seeing tiny little Dana 44's where a 14-bolt and a D60 front ought to be. But it has a warranty, and I am going to wheel it, so if stuff should break, I'll let Jeep worry about it.
I do get what you're saying though. Jeep's factory offering with 35" tires and a stick offers the truck with 4.88's
Post by: EL TATE on November 07, 2022, 02:36:11 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 06:48:02 PM
yeah, it's upshifting, but possibly not into 7 and 8. try manually shifting on the highway and see if the RPM answers the questions. the automatics are pretty nice since the TCM recalibrates for the tire size which is why they did the 8 spd in the 1st place.I think I was a couple hours ahead of ya, Tate.
Had a post-op Dr appointment to drive to today. I set the cruise to 65. It was climbing the hills all the way up into the low 3,000 rpm range, but on level ground, I could see it shift a couple more times and finally settle in just under 2,000 @ 65 indicated. The mileage is holding pretty strong now showing 18.7 for the first 1/4 tank since the last 87 octane fill-up.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 06:50:13 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 07:26:28 PM
I am thinking I can see a better rear bumper in this truck's future that tucks in better and wraps around to the rear of the wheel well. I can see adding a swing-away tire carrier to that bumper as well along with a jerry can holder.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 07:28:08 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 07:29:22 PM
Springs are definitely aftermarket
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 07:32:08 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2022, 07:34:08 PM
Post by: KensAuto on November 07, 2022, 07:42:39 PM
Oh, nice Jeep boss.
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Post by: Sammconn on November 07, 2022, 08:49:05 PM
What the heck? I leave for a few days and the super duper Tesla is gone?I’m with ya.
Oh, nice Jeep boss.
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This has escalated quickly…
Nice truck…and t-car gone, did you turn a profit?
Not that it really matters…
Look like huge tires for a poor little 44 to handle.
A word of caution.
I have to keep my spare under my truck.
The gravel eats the wiring instantly.
Now if you’re not running a lot of gravel may not matter.
Also if the wiring isn’t there not an issue either.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 08, 2022, 09:40:49 AM
What the heck? I leave for a few days and the super duper Tesla is gone?Thank ya!
Oh, nice Jeep boss.
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I know the feeling...I woke up one day and we were abandoning the people who risked their lives to help us in Afghanistan! A lot can change when you don't watch things for a few days...
Post by: Flyin6 on November 08, 2022, 09:52:54 AM
Good one Sam, didn't consider that. I do run gravel some but only on the access roads into the back country areas. I stopped looking to run over pruis and KIA cars, so no concern about them damaging anything under there.What the heck? I leave for a few days and the super duper Tesla is gone?I’m with ya.
Oh, nice Jeep boss.
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This has escalated quickly…
Nice truck…and t-car gone, did you turn a profit?
Not that it really matters…
Look like huge tires for a poor little 44 to handle.
A word of caution.
I have to keep my spare under my truck.
The gravel eats the wiring instantly.
Now if you’re not running a lot of gravel may not matter.
Also if the wiring isn’t there not an issue either.
I decided to just break even. So I added my costs then subtracted out my tax savings then literally set trade-in at that number. They haggled a little but agreed to my number. Isn't that crazy? Some poor guy is going to pay full price for a used Tesla plus my tax bill plus the profit wanted by the dealer!
So, yea, I'm with you on that 44. Thing is, Jeep now puts 35's on a factory-lifted jeep with those Rubicon D44's. And AEV is like the biggest off road commercial modifier of these vehicles, and they are the ones opting for a 37" tire.
I ran a front D44 in my supercharged Tundra and only broke the rear axle, TWICE!
I had D44s in something else and back around 2000 when I was hot into the SFA/SAS thing, D44s were all the rage. Finally, there's a west coast Canadian guy I watch constantly, Shawn who has a YouTube Channel called "The Story till now." He literally drives some adventure in the Canadian Rockies every single weekend. In fact last night I saw him say he had so far (when that vid was recorded), been out over 150 consecutive weekends. His jaunts are off the shelf. He beats his Gladiator, well, now the second one like a redheaded stepchild...And every single week. It runs 37's on Rubicon D44's.
I don't have the courage that man does, along with his buddies up there. They all bang around in similar vehicles, and you don't hear or see many failures.
For now, I'm going with it to see if I can gain confidence in the setup.
And not to forecast, but I was thinking I could fab up a fuel tank to take the place of that spare tire if I moved it to the bumper...
Post by: EL TATE on November 08, 2022, 12:40:23 PM
yeah, it's upshifting, but possibly not into 7 and 8. try manually shifting on the highway and see if the RPM answers the questions. the automatics are pretty nice since the TCM recalibrates for the tire size which is why they did the 8 spd in the 1st place.I think I was a couple hours ahead of ya, Tate.
Had a post-op Dr appointment to drive to today. I set the cruise to 65. It was climbing the hills all the way up into the low 3,000 rpm range, but on level ground, I could see it shift a couple more times and finally settle in just under 2,000 @ 65 indicated. The mileage is holding pretty strong now showing 18.7 for the first 1/4 tank since the last 87 octane fill-up.
good deal that'll increase as you drive it and break it in too.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 08, 2022, 10:14:39 PM
Hemi v8 swap!!!
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Post by: stlaser on November 08, 2022, 10:20:34 PM
Shawn always says you can run big tires as long as you are aware of the weak link. Axles!!!
Hemi v8 swap!!!
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Technically it’s more of a right foot issue to an extent
Post by: Flyin6 on November 09, 2022, 09:48:32 AM
From what I have learned/experienced, keeping the D44 alive is about keeping off the skinny pedal. The danger comes when you lift a tire which then gets to spinning, then is suddenly slammed back down. The resulting sudden stoppage breaks the axle.Shawn always says you can run big tires as long as you are aware of the weak link. Axles!!!
Hemi v8 swap!!!
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Technically it’s more of a right foot issue to an extent
I learned to drive doing BTM so it's sort of habitual not to throttle hard in the rocks. I usually only throttle hard in the mud to clean the thread.
Dave: Hemi...NO! (Now stop it!) ;-)
Maybe a supercharger after the warranty...Maybe
And I am just liking this thing more and more every day. This suspension is so well sorted. Our last JK, the thing I called the GJ (Girly Jeep) Was a hunk of driving junk compared to this AEV JT. It would roll all over and jerk and wallow around like a beached beluga whale. This JT is firm in the corners and feels very much in control. It has done nothing strange to make me frightened it is going to start shaking or skidding or rolling on its side. The old JK was bracket lifted (Bad idea) with stock springs and Ruby shocks. To be fair to the generation, I lifted it all wrong (Went cheap) so I never experienced a well-sorted suspension. Now that I am driving this JT, I feel like I want to drive something like this for the rest of my days.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 10, 2022, 12:43:07 PM
This time the mileage calculator in the vehicle showed 17.7
But
The calculator told the truth. For these most recent 150 miles, the math showed I got just 16.2MPG.
Seems as though the jeep is settling in around in the mid sixteens.
I now have 800 miles on the truck
Last night I played with those off-road lights. One word: WOW
With those, All I really need is some more hemispherical illum and I'm golden
Post by: Flyin6 on November 10, 2022, 12:49:32 PM
Over $600 with tax!
Is it just me thinking this is too expensive or have prices gone up that much?
At that price, I may just scuff it off and spray it myself
Opinions?
Post by: KensAuto on November 10, 2022, 02:00:27 PM
Won't regret it if they do it right. If they do it wrong, they'll do it again.
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Post by: Sammconn on November 10, 2022, 08:35:23 PM
Line-x.This. Buy once cry once.
Won't regret it if they do it right. If they do it wrong, they'll do it again.
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You’re not twenty something anymore and getting the prep perfect is key.
They screw up they make it right.
You’ll be a few hundo in to buy the kits and solvents.
Then your time…
Post by: Flyin6 on November 11, 2022, 12:07:10 PM
I'll make the appointment
Gunna hurt!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 12, 2022, 10:44:32 AM
That’s the same logic as tire rotation cost on a dually their boss man.
Speaker system upgrade?
Lighting maybe not with the factory deals.
Tires?
Roof rack?
Rear bumper?
Hood jack mount?
Yep I say go get the bed lined and smile at a job well completed in a painless manner as nothing else on the jeep will be that cheap
In the wisdom of Charles. Stoke the check
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Post by: JR on November 12, 2022, 10:52:40 PM
LOL OMG!!
Post by: Flyin6 on November 13, 2022, 09:51:11 AM
Buy a $60k jeep and is soured over one of the cheapest upgrades you’ll do on the thing.I wish that was a 60K jeep!
That’s the same logic as tire rotation cost on a dually their boss man.
Speaker system upgrade?
Lighting maybe not with the factory deals.
Tires?
Roof rack?
Rear bumper?
Hood jack mount?
Yep I say go get the bed lined and smile at a job well completed in a painless manner as nothing else on the jeep will be that cheap
In the wisdom of Charles. Stoke the check
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Yea, good to get opinions. I called to set up an appointment but they are now booked. I'll get Line-X to do the job
Mods, well I said I would wait until after I went wheeling with it
And yesterday I did. Really just planned to drive on good trails in the Daniel Boone National Forest, 2-hours south of where I live. I picked up my brother-in-law for a guide, so he and my sister, and my wife loaded up, and off we went. We mostly did easy trails but went way further than I was expecting. I'll post the trip over in the Adventure section. I think some of you may be surprised by what that jeep-truck TJ thing can do totally stock. I sit here amazed. It is very capable right out of the box!
Post by: Flyin6 on November 14, 2022, 12:37:28 PM
Now looking at these on the Jeep platform, I can see a tom of products that use the existing Rubicon pinch weld and body bolt holes, and I see the kind I am used to that weld or bolt up to the vehicle frame. I think I would be perfectly fine just building on the stock Rubicon thinking and not attaching to the frame.
I looked at a dozen or more sliders and settled on the JT units which I purchased in mild steel. They have a secondary bar standing several inches proud of the body that will serve as a good stopper against hard things that try to bend up the pretty blue doors and fenders. After coating, I'll add some anti-slip tape to the top surfaces so it can serve also as a step. That will solve both issues I hope.
Shipping was free and JT is currently offering a 15% discount. I paid $652, including tax.
Post by: Bob Smith on November 14, 2022, 01:14:44 PM
Post by: JR on November 14, 2022, 01:33:12 PM
You know, looking at milage and lighting putting gobs of big round lights up top will kill what aero you have. A light bar may be a better choice, way easier to wire and you keep some aero. Same going with my Tahoe, don't go real high, clean aero and watch the foot. With the 6sp, 70mph is 1750 rpm.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 14, 2022, 09:21:27 PM
And the fluid change begins.Well Shawn thinks I need a light bar, but the lights I have been working great for now. I haven't wheeled it at night at all, so I only have my country road night driving experience. I could see zero light deficiency using the factory LED lighting and the AEV 7000 series driving lights.
You know, looking at milage and lighting putting gobs of big round lights up top will kill what aero you have. A light bar may be a better choice, way easier to wire and you keep some aero. Same going with my Tahoe, don't go real high, clean aero and watch the foot. With the 6sp, 70mph is 1750 rpm.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 14, 2022, 11:33:43 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 15, 2022, 10:57:29 AM
Don forget the rock light for the wheel wells,Don, forget
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or
Don't forget??
Because I certainly want a "Scene illumination setup light that when switched on, illuminates all around the vehicle and in close for obstacle identification purposes.
Post by: KensAuto on November 15, 2022, 12:48:25 PM
If those things get to you soon enough have them sprayed when you do the bed liner.Good idea!
They did mine for free when I went back for a warranty redo. Color matched.
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Post by: stlaser on November 15, 2022, 10:50:34 PM
https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClARa8TpfwD/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 16, 2022, 08:41:42 PM
Shawn the link didn’t work for me
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 17, 2022, 11:07:44 AM
Don’t for get to get some of the KC rock lights!!JC rocklights: Check
Shawn the link didn’t work for me
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Link works on my laptop. Shows a JT with tracks in the snow. Pretty cool looking
Post by: Flyin6 on November 17, 2022, 11:09:04 AM
Next fuel mileage check just completed: 17.0 MPG normal driving 60% highway 30% in town 10% rural roads @ 50 mph.
Post by: Sammconn on November 17, 2022, 11:26:33 AM
I’ve had more than a few sticks come visit my body on the quad in swamps.
Go straight through the plastic.
The metal plate up front stops them.
My non truck opinion.
Post by: EL TATE on November 17, 2022, 01:56:54 PM
My guess flinging rock and sticks.
I’ve had more than a few sticks come visit my body on the quad in swamps.
Go straight through the plastic.
The metal plate up front stops them.
My non truck opinion.
This. big lug M/T tires can launch big rocks etc.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 17, 2022, 05:25:01 PM
But you'd think Jeep would know this and have done a lot of research keeping these off-road oriented vehicles out of the warranty claim department!
Post by: oklawall on November 17, 2022, 05:50:37 PM
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Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 17, 2022, 08:34:29 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 17, 2022, 10:18:55 PM
At the moment, I have taken the insurance off the burb and will soon take it to the farm for semi-permanent storage. I suppose it will be a wash. Who knows, a future barn find for some fortunate soul?
As for the camper. I am thinking about giving it a pull with the JT. I watched a vid this morning where someone pulled a 30-foot camper with a JT from the east out to Moab and back. With a 7K towing rating, everything I am reading says the JT can tow up to around 5,000 with relative ease but going north of that really taxes it. I think I am going to give it a test pull and see how it does.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 17, 2022, 10:27:49 PM
My list so far is:
Grab handle for ease of entry
Rock Slider (From my first deep hole/rocky trail experience
Some sort of scene illumination for crawling at night
App that permits me to display terrain map on the stock U-Connect screen
Winch
Bed liner
More fuel (larger or additional fuel tank)
Front leveling to get rid of the stock rake
Possibly another inch of lift. It currently has the AEV 2.5" and I think the 4" is about right
Bead lock wheels
Rear bumper (not impressed with the stocker)
Rear tire carrier on the bumper
Supercharger
Post by: JR on November 17, 2022, 10:30:16 PM
Or, do a givaway raffle with it and donate the $$ to good cause. Great tax write off.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 18, 2022, 11:44:51 AM
Keep the burb listed, it will go sooner or later. Getting a fair price will be the issue.Yea, good thinking on keeping it listed. I have not aggressively marketed this truck at all. I have only used Marketplace and its boost option. I recently removed the insurance coverage from it, so it will go into storage and no longer be legal for use. I had thought to keep it in reserve as an emergency go-to vehicle should the family have a need, but thinking about it, with it getting 9 mpg, it would really be a hinderance on the young families who now constitute the bulk of my family.
Or, do a givaway raffle with it and donate the $$ to good cause. Great tax write off.
Now I am wondering out loud what a Raffle might look like. I haven't considered it, but I could raffle it off and use the money for our Christmas fund and other needs looking into the future, like that not-so-pleasant $750 renewal fee for this site I pay some years...
Post by: Flyin6 on November 19, 2022, 07:49:26 AM
The reason is I do not trust airing down in standard wheels. It only takes one wrong bump, and that will be in the middle of nowhere, to get me marooned. So right up there with the winch, these wheels will be a requirement.
Oh and as I am planning out next year and perhaps beyond, I feel I will need a supercharger. My idea revolves around towing either a small flat trailer with our Honda Talon on it or actually pulling the off-road camper I built. Either will be fairly light for a real truck but in my view challenging for this JT. I contacted Ripp superchargers, a group that has more dyno time on this motor than anyone else and feels the centrifugal blower is right for this application. They have retailed over 7,000 kits already. But there is a problem. It seems in August of 2021, Jeep changed the computer in the newer model, and that computer is not supported at the present time. The Tipp sales manager told me they use Diablo Sport tuners to upload their tunes and the big problem is that Diablo currently does not have support for this vehicle. For that reason, no supercharger will work for lack of tuning. I subsequently contacted Diablo asking for support. My guess is prospective sales will drive development, so this is something in the future somewhere.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 19, 2022, 04:38:05 PM
https://www.methodracewheels.com/products/108-gloss-titanium
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 20, 2022, 08:42:22 AM
I really like those!
So, Dave, yesterday I spent the day with one of my best friends ever. You already know my boy lives down in St. George, right? Well, my friend Mike (look for the article I am writing about him in the Adventure section) just bought property outside St George in Washington, I believe.
Small world!
Post by: Bob Smith on November 20, 2022, 07:40:09 PM
Darn!!!!!!!!
I really like those!
So, Dave, yesterday I spent the day with one of my best friends ever. You already know my boy lives down in St. George, right? Well, my friend Mike (look for the article I am writing about him in the Adventure section) just bought property outside St George in Washington, I believe.
Small world!
Well, St. George is quite a ways out of Washington. But then who is counting miles. I thought your oldest son lived around Yakima Wa.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 20, 2022, 10:07:51 PM
Not that far. I'd say inside 10 miles...Darn!!!!!!!!
I really like those!
So, Dave, yesterday I spent the day with one of my best friends ever. You already know my boy lives down in St. George, right? Well, my friend Mike (look for the article I am writing about him in the Adventure section) just bought property outside St George in Washington, I believe.
Small world!
Well, St. George is quite a ways out of Washington. But then who is counting miles. I thought your oldest son lived around Yakima Wa.
He has several houses. His mini ranch is near Seattle, his fishing cabin is on the eastern side of the state, then there's the new place in UT. He owns all of them at this time.
Post by: Bob Smith on November 20, 2022, 10:44:28 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 21, 2022, 11:21:47 AM
And I stand corrected.No worries!
The important thing to note is that you are STANDING!
So on these Bead lock wheels, I am wondering how long I might get away with running non bead locks?
I have been watching a ton of videos of folks running the KAT and other trails in the Daniel Boone. There are two thoughts or broad areas of interest/appeal.
First, there are the off-road folks who build buggies and put 2.5-ton axles under side by sides and just way overbuild things that could crawl across the ocean floor unassisted and are used to rescue climbers from Mt Everest.
Next, there is the Overlanding crowd. These folks just want to get places and will bypass difficult spots if necessary but are still equipped to handle most obstacles. Based on what I have been seeing so far with my JT, that truck is super capable right out of the box, all aired up. I have noted that most of the overlanders I am seeing do not run Beadlock wheels but do air down to the upper-mid 20s.
I certainly have to consider the cost of five wheels that retail from the mid $ 500s to the low $ 700s, EACH. That's significant and I have to ask if they aren't a purchase, I might be able to do later on. Say, after the winch, after the rocker rail protection, and possibly the rear bumper with tire carrier. Also, looking at what I want to carry, I can see that a bed rack is starting to loom as a higher priority.
I can't help but notice that Jeep stuff is expensive. That rear bumper is going to come in between $2,500 and $3,000. The winch is around a grand to $2300. A rack would cost from a grand upward to $2,500, and If I decide on overnighting, a hard-shell rooftop tent is another $2500.
I'm already past $10K and haven't even thought about wheels.
So what do the experts out there say about the need the REAL need for bead locks?
Post by: cj7ox on November 21, 2022, 12:02:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 21, 2022, 12:15:42 PM
So, I spent a lot of time doing the south-east version of rockcrawling (rocks, with a bit of mud LOL) in my CJ. I run 36x13.50 swampers on 15x10" steely rims, no beadlocks. With those rims and tires, I usually air down to 7-10 PSI and have yet to bust a bead. They have stiff sidewalls, though. You can hardly tell they are that low by looking at them. I'd think you'd be okay down to 15 PSI.OK, noted
I haven't aired down yet. Running 29 and they are getting me into and out of some pretty ridiculous stuff
Post by: EL TATE on November 21, 2022, 12:51:39 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMI0QiRdr2o
Post by: JR on November 21, 2022, 01:27:44 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 21, 2022, 07:23:41 PM
Since we bought ICON some months ago, I have these in stock in satin black, bronze, and titanium finishes. 50 state DOT legal beadlock tech. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOhDB_J8yK8OK, Tate, those are very interesting. Listening to the YouTube informational videos, I noted the engineer saying conventional beadlock wheels will fatigue the bolts, and that those bolts need periodic replacement. These wheels seem to solve that problem. I could see a set of 17 X 9 in the correct offset on my JT. Would you have five of them in the titanium color? Perhaps a PM would be most appropriate...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMI0QiRdr2o
Post by: Flyin6 on November 21, 2022, 07:27:02 PM
That system is OnX Offroad
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSMZ29dPkkEo4fkTUuqpz_oF8DGFGtRnK
Post by: JR on November 21, 2022, 08:13:33 PM
Post by: Nate on November 21, 2022, 08:36:30 PM
Oh, and I seem to have found that off-road trail APP I was looking for. It actually came with the purchase of my jeep, at least a 6-month trial did. I downloaded it today and opened it to find a lot of the KAT and Daniel Boone trail system appears in the database
That system is OnX Offroad
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSMZ29dPkkEo4fkTUuqpz_oF8DGFGtRnK
That app also has a hunting version which shows you all public info like who owns it, the boundry lines, etc.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 21, 2022, 09:15:48 PM
I’ll bet you could get by for a long time with out a real need. A can of starter fluid might set a bead for $7 bucks vs the expense of wheels
But but but beadlocks looks fetching awesome!!!
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 21, 2022, 09:42:12 PM
That's included in the premium app. Also, lists who owns the land, whether you're on public or private land, and is kept pretty current.Oh, and I seem to have found that off-road trail APP I was looking for. It actually came with the purchase of my jeep, at least a 6-month trial did. I downloaded it today and opened it to find a lot of the KAT and Daniel Boone trail system appears in the database
That system is OnX Offroad
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSMZ29dPkkEo4fkTUuqpz_oF8DGFGtRnK
That app also has a hunting version which shows you all public info like who owns it, the boundry lines, etc.
Post by: JR on November 21, 2022, 09:43:03 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 21, 2022, 09:45:11 PM
Iv ran lots of trails in Moab, on 20psi and lots of side load on the trails. No bead locks, just good ol tire placement control.I used Breck hairspray instead. Why, you ask? Well, it's the same thing we use in our potato guns!
I’ll bet you could get by for a long time with out a real need. A can of starter fluid might set a bead for $7 bucks vs the expense of wheels
But but but beadlocks looks fetching awesome!!!
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I would only air down into the 20's. These are Load Range "D" so the sidewalls are gunna be a lot softer. Wouldn't want to damage such an expensive tire!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 21, 2022, 11:52:38 PM
Oh boy!
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 22, 2022, 10:46:11 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221122/a64b386504baa1e71c75e447e637d5e8.png)Oh NO!!!!!!
Oh boy!
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Satan...DO NOT TEMPT ME!!!!!!!!!
;-)
Post by: JR on November 22, 2022, 12:57:49 PM
An LS conversion would be cheaper than the blower to, bet is just bolt ons. 6.2, 6 or 8 speed tranny, NO towing isuues and all the power you want.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 22, 2022, 01:50:17 PM
I opened my big mouth and mentioned Beadlocks
Didn't really need them,
But
Now I won a set!
Tate offered a set at a stunning price, so I agreed and purchased a set of five to replace the AEV standard wheels.
I will be selling the AEV wheels to cover a lot of the purchase price of these new beadlocks
https://iconvehicledynamics.com/innerlock
Post by: Flyin6 on November 22, 2022, 01:52:31 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 22, 2022, 02:00:42 PM
Yukon Gear/Randy's Worldwide offers very special pricing to members of this website. Honestly, there is no way you can even come close to what they offer our membership here. I really appreciate what they are doing for us. They do it because they make money from sales generated by folks from all over viewing the builds you all write about here.
Contact Tate Hudson at 425 347-1188 ext 5573
To get special prices on anything under Randy's umbrella which now includes Icon Wheels and Carli Suspensions because Randy's recently acquired them you need to become a member here. After that, you need to post about your build in the fashion which you can find all over the site. Make a write-up, then post pics about what you are writing about. Do that and just like that, you can get a lot off your purchase price, and you can help so many people have successful projects of their own.
Post by: JR on November 22, 2022, 03:33:47 PM
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 22, 2022, 08:04:31 PM
They make killer products for sure. Nothing for Gm that I am aware of
but non the less. Icon makes some good lookin wheels for sure!
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Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 22, 2022, 08:09:56 PM
https://www.iconvehicledynamics.com/accessory/16063/icon%2Daccessories%2D20%2Dup%2Dgm%2D2500hd%2D3500%2D0%2D2%2Dstage%2D3%2Dsuspension%2Dsystem/
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Post by: EL TATE on November 23, 2022, 02:41:02 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 07:48:27 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 07:49:28 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 07:51:53 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 07:54:19 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 07:57:00 PM
You'll need a 12pt 7/16 socket
I'd recommend a 3/8" dr electric impact
5/32" allen head wrench
Torque Wrench
Some oil
Anti seize thread lubricant
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:00:25 PM
To properly install the tires, you'll need to back out the bead retention bolts until they are either flush or inset a little
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:04:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:05:40 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:06:54 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:08:48 PM
Post by: JR on November 29, 2022, 08:11:36 PM
Funny, when I went to the Ridge last weekend. I slept a little on the way and I woke there was a line a jeeps there. Everyone was hugging and excited (didn't see any ducks) and it almost weird, I left fast.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:16:55 PM
Driving home was unnerving! Ya, now I don't know why, but the Jeep started this "sine-wave" low-frequency shimmy. Not the crazy and violent steering wheel death wobble thing, but something coming from the rear end. I could not figure out what was causing it, but it came on unexpectedly many times. I ended up driving 45mph home where I started checking things.
Lug nuts were all tight
When shaking the rear wheels in and out I am getting a bunch of play. Is this something that the non-floating axles do? I'd say there is 1/4" to 3/8" in-out play on each side! I DO NOT LIKE THAT!
Next, I checked tire pressure and may have found the culprit. The rear tires were nearly 40psi and the fronts 37ish. I reset pressures at 33psi F and 35psi R as per the tire pressure sticker in my door jamb. I will drive it tomorrow to check. Hopefully, this will settle things out. Before going in, the tire pressures were 31 rear and 29 front, a big difference.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:18:03 PM
Stock wheels look alien. Jeep looks good, for a jeep,,,,,I haven't hugged any other jeepers yet. Maybe it's a Jeep thing, dunno...Shawn???
Funny, when I went to the Ridge last weekend. I slept a little on the way and I woke there was a line a jeeps there. Everyone was hugging and excited (didn't see any ducks) and it almost weird, I left fast.
Post by: JR on November 29, 2022, 08:22:06 PM
Post by: stlaser on November 29, 2022, 08:32:37 PM
Stock wheels look alien. Jeep looks good, for a jeep,,,,,I haven't hugged any other jeepers yet. Maybe it's a Jeep thing, dunno...Shawn???
Funny, when I went to the Ridge last weekend. I slept a little on the way and I woke there was a line a jeeps there. Everyone was hugging and excited (didn't see any ducks) and it almost weird, I left fast.
Maybe in Colorado? Idk, I’m not into hugging dudes, maybe ask Ken he seems to normally be a little more in touch with his feminine side. Guessing with H as the dominate figure in the relationship it’s what works for him?
Post by: stlaser on November 29, 2022, 08:33:17 PM
Does the 44 use axle clips or pressed bearings? Clips might give a little play, but not 1/4, bearings should be none.
Bearing retainer at axle tube end flange, 4 bolts
Post by: Flyin6 on November 29, 2022, 08:35:42 PM
I'll check that right away in the morning.Does the 44 use axle clips or pressed bearings? Clips might give a little play, but not 1/4, bearings should be none.
Bearing retainer at axle tube end flange, 4 bolts
I'm actually getting close to 1/2" so something has loosened up. But why did it manifest right when I had these new wheels installed?
Post by: JR on November 29, 2022, 08:56:36 PM
Are they hub centric or centered with studs/lugs?
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 29, 2022, 10:14:33 PM
I’ll bet the wobble is a loose bolt(s) it is after all a Fiat produced vehicle
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Post by: dave945 on November 29, 2022, 10:40:33 PM
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Post by: Bob Smith on November 29, 2022, 11:18:50 PM
Wish I had held out for a Rubicon model when I bought my Jeep. Running on the frozen snow going uphill would be so much easier with the front lockers.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 29, 2022, 11:31:28 PM
How low of a pressure does this style of wheel allow you to go?
Not sure if you have ever come across this stuff, I was introduced to it while assembling the antennas things for the military UAV’s at L3
Loctite 466864 442 Quickstix Silver Anti-Seize Lubricants, 20 g Stick, 0.705 fl. oz. https://a.co/d/2m6dCsj
Made for quick and easy application with out the mess of the paint brush
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Post by: stlaser on November 30, 2022, 12:35:44 AM
That is a very nice outfit, hate to see you damage it while out showing off the new wheels.
Wish I had held out for a Rubicon model when I bought my Jeep. Running on the frozen snow going uphill would be so much easier with the front lockers.
Adding a selectable up front wouldn’t be a huge undertaking……
Post by: oklawall on November 30, 2022, 08:56:53 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 30, 2022, 09:23:45 AM
Maybe it has to do with the lugs not pulling the wheel tight/flush, scary!!I think they are hub centric...
Are they hub centric or centered with studs/lugs?
I recall reading ICON designed the wheel specifically for newer Jeeps.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 30, 2022, 09:25:50 AM
Boss, I think you did the anti - seize wrong. The correct way to apply is a small amount on the bolt and the rest of the bottle should have been on you hands and the rimNo, I'm good. Most of the anti-seize was applied to multiple fingers, a T-shirt, a flannel shirt, a good flight jacket, and my jeans. Haven't looked yet, but probably applied some to the driver's seat as well
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We're good ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on November 30, 2022, 09:27:53 AM
OK, talk to me goose.That is a very nice outfit, hate to see you damage it while out showing off the new wheels.
Wish I had held out for a Rubicon model when I bought my Jeep. Running on the frozen snow going uphill would be so much easier with the front lockers.
Adding a selectable up front wouldn’t be a huge undertaking……
Why do I need selectable hubs? Thinking about it, I can't come up with a single reason. I toss it in 4WD Hi at any speed, then right back out again if necessary (I'm imagining...)
Post by: Flyin6 on November 30, 2022, 09:32:41 AM
All photos came through now. Looks good!!!According to what I have read, I believe the wheels will maintain bead integrity all the way to zero psi. My plan is to dial down to something in the low 20's upward to around 25psi and see how that runs. For extreme situations, I could go down to say 13-15 to get through, but with concerns about tire sidewall life and added heat, I can't see doing that for very long. Kinda like air down at the trailhead. Come up to a monster that I can't bypass, then air down for the record and get through it, then air back up to 20-something.
How low of a pressure does this style of wheel allow you to go?
Not sure if you have ever come across this stuff, I was introduced to it while assembling the antennas things for the military UAV’s at L3
Loctite 466864 442 Quickstix Silver Anti-Seize Lubricants, 20 g Stick, 0.705 fl. oz. https://a.co/d/2m6dCsj
Made for quick and easy application with out the mess of the paint brush
Now ya tell me!!!!!!
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I'm talking as if I know what I'm talking about. I'll know much more 6 months from now...
Post by: dave945 on November 30, 2022, 09:35:25 AM
I think he was talking to Bob about putting a selectable locker in the front of his Jeep. I could be wrong, but since I’m Air Force and you are Army, I’m almost assuredly right.OK, talk to me goose.That is a very nice outfit, hate to see you damage it while out showing off the new wheels.
Wish I had held out for a Rubicon model when I bought my Jeep. Running on the frozen snow going uphill would be so much easier with the front lockers.
Adding a selectable up front wouldn’t be a huge undertaking……
Why do I need selectable hubs? Thinking about it, I can't come up with a single reason. I toss it in 4WD Hi at any speed, then right back out again if necessary (I'm imagining...)
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Post by: EL TATE on November 30, 2022, 10:47:34 AM
I think he was talking to Bob about putting a selectable locker in the front of his Jeep. I could be wrong, but since I’m Air Force and you are Army, I’m almost assuredly right.OK, talk to me goose.That is a very nice outfit, hate to see you damage it while out showing off the new wheels.
Wish I had held out for a Rubicon model when I bought my Jeep. Running on the frozen snow going uphill would be so much easier with the front lockers.
Adding a selectable up front wouldn’t be a huge undertaking……
Why do I need selectable hubs? Thinking about it, I can't come up with a single reason. I toss it in 4WD Hi at any speed, then right back out again if necessary (I'm imagining...)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Hate to vouch for airforce, but he's right.
Post by: EL TATE on November 30, 2022, 10:49:17 AM
Does the 44 use axle clips or pressed bearings? Clips might give a little play, but not 1/4, bearings should be none.
Bearing retainer at axle tube end flange, 4 bolts
Unfortunately the Gladiator models and wide track wranglers have a history of rear axle bearing issues. like Shawn said, double check your retainer bolts and retorque the lug nuts which you should always do after 100 miles post new wheel install. end play like that on a bolt in shaft is NOT normal.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 30, 2022, 10:42:15 PM
I drove it on the highway with the tires set at the correct pressures. I got a couple wobbles, but it felt better.
Fortunately
I drove to the Jeep dealership.
Pulled in and shook the rear wheel. It was clearly shaking. The mechanic pointed out that the wheel was moving, but the lugnuts were not!!!
We grabbed each wheel and darned if all the wheels weren't loose as a goose.
He put a wrench on the lug nuts and they were all tight!
Wait for it...
But
They were too short and had bottomed out on the stud before even touching the wheel!!!!!!
The wheels were just free floating on the studs and not even touching the axle face if you can believe that
And here's how great the dealership was, Zimmer motors in Florence, KY, btw...
They did not sell me that jeep, as they are not an AEV dealership. But they took me right in and simply would not allow me to leave driving that jeep. THe GM told me to take his demo and come back when I found the correct lugnuts, that they did not have. I found some 1.7 miles away and they tossed them on. Now, that right there is customer service!
I purchased our 2016 Rubicon from them, and dearly wanted to buy the JT there, but no Bueno on the AEV thing, but they are my servicing dealership of choice.
I think ICON Wheels should include Lugnuts with wheels to prevent something like this from happening in the future. Imagine if I'd have broken a wheel off in traffic...
Post by: Flyin6 on November 30, 2022, 11:34:36 PM
And
It's not a Warn...
Post by: stlaser on November 30, 2022, 11:48:16 PM
Shawn's gonna hate me but I purchased a winch
And
It's not a Warn...
Blasphemy
Post by: Bigdave_185 on November 30, 2022, 11:50:26 PM
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Post by: stlaser on December 01, 2022, 12:01:02 AM
More curious what your super tire shop guy says.
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Meh, I’m more curious what Randy’s ring and pinions official response is…….. :popcorn:
Post by: EL TATE on December 01, 2022, 10:02:39 AM
More curious what your super tire shop guy says.
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Meh, I’m more curious what Randy’s ring and pinions official response is…….. :popcorn:
Well aren't you a daisy, lol. Checked in with the ICON fellas on this, and the working theory is that the AEV mods included longer than stock wheel studs for the thicker AEV wheels and possibly a different style lugnut as well, but it's just a theory as lack of complaints does not negate the existence of an issue. Glad you got it solved before you lost a wheel or worse!
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 01, 2022, 10:08:11 AM
In the end I would put the responsibility on the tire shop for not ensuring the proper installation
Had something bad happened it would have legally attached to them and their liability policy b
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Post by: JR on December 01, 2022, 11:13:41 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 01, 2022, 11:23:31 AM
I tried to repent, but in the end, I must admit, I am but a lowly sinner...Shawn's gonna hate me but I purchased a winch
And
It's not a Warn...
Blasphemy
;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on December 01, 2022, 12:06:48 PM
More curious what your super tire shop guy says.He is very apologetic. Refunding me the $$$$
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 01, 2022, 12:09:26 PM
My sole interest in this is to prevent anything from happening to anyone else. Dunno what the response should be, not my lane, but a correct pitch, open-end lug nut would solve for all...More curious what your super tire shop guy says.
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Meh, I’m more curious what Randy’s ring and pinions official response is…….. :popcorn:
Well aren't you a daisy, lol. Checked in with the ICON fellas on this, and the working theory is that the AEV mods included longer than stock wheel studs for the thicker AEV wheels and possibly a different style lugnut as well, but it's just a theory as lack of complaints does not negate the existence of an issue. Glad you got it solved before you lost a wheel or worse!
Post by: Flyin6 on December 01, 2022, 12:10:56 PM
129JR is hereby recognized as the only person who got this right!
You are awarded a "get out of being fired" credit
But just one!
Post by: EL TATE on December 01, 2022, 12:45:39 PM
My sole interest in this is to prevent anything from happening to anyone else. Dunno what the response should be, not my lane, but a correct pitch, open-end lug nut would solve for all...More curious what your super tire shop guy says.
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Meh, I’m more curious what Randy’s ring and pinions official response is…….. :popcorn:
Well aren't you a daisy, lol. Checked in with the ICON fellas on this, and the working theory is that the AEV mods included longer than stock wheel studs for the thicker AEV wheels and possibly a different style lugnut as well, but it's just a theory as lack of complaints does not negate the existence of an issue. Glad you got it solved before you lost a wheel or worse!
Well, I just got off the phone with the "right" person. Turns out we failed to upload notes to the wheel part numbers indicating the necessity of lug nuts for most applications. Fixed now, and even the greenest of salespeople won't be able to ignore the bright red flashing note in our system, thanks to you. Sorry for the headache, and glad nothing was damaged.
Post by: stlaser on December 01, 2022, 01:14:23 PM
My sole interest in this is to prevent anything from happening to anyone else. Dunno what the response should be, not my lane, but a correct pitch, open-end lug nut would solve for all...More curious what your super tire shop guy says.
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Meh, I’m more curious what Randy’s ring and pinions official response is…….. :popcorn:
Well aren't you a daisy, lol. Checked in with the ICON fellas on this, and the working theory is that the AEV mods included longer than stock wheel studs for the thicker AEV wheels and possibly a different style lugnut as well, but it's just a theory as lack of complaints does not negate the existence of an issue. Glad you got it solved before you lost a wheel or worse!
Well, I just got off the phone with the "right" person. Turns out we failed to upload notes to the wheel part numbers indicating the necessity of lug nuts for most applications. Fixed now, and even the greenest of salespeople won't be able to ignore the bright red flashing note in our system, thanks to you. Sorry for the headache, and glad nothing was damaged.
And there you have it, after all the name calling :tongue: we get a very exceptional response which is what we have come to expect from Randy’s ring and pinion. No excuses, just figure out it’s a potential issue and fix it going forward. :likebutton:
Post by: KensAuto on December 01, 2022, 01:47:30 PM
Definitely not a icon problem.
It's a tire shop problem.
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Post by: stlaser on December 01, 2022, 02:38:32 PM
Yeah, wheels don't come with nuts, and a huge number of them require spline style.
Definitely not a icon problem.
It's a tire shop problem.
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As someone who has bought a few sets of wheels over the years from various places. I’d agree it’s not Tate’s issue with the improper install. However, I always get the option of proper lugnuts with wheels and if you don’t offer it then you’re going to have unhappy customers. Randy’s typically does a great job of including things that may be needed.
Post by: Sammconn on December 01, 2022, 03:05:01 PM
Seems I missed something here.129JR is hereby recognized as the only person who got this right!
You are awarded a "get out of being fired" credit
But just one!
Good on ya for the get of fired card Fred…lol
What is the significance of 129 that we all else missed?
Don edit: He called the wrong lug nut as a possible issue way back on post #129
Post by: JR on December 01, 2022, 03:14:59 PM
Glad it was resolved with no damage or injury. I would inspect the wheels though. Could be some damage with that much play.
Post by: wyorunner on December 01, 2022, 03:36:35 PM
Kinda like where i worked before. one atta boy vs all the other things.This was my thought, but I’ll also run broken things soo, maybe not the best judge…. Or lost threads on the studs?
Glad it was resolved with no damage or injury. I would inspect the wheels though. Could be some damage with that much play.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 01, 2022, 06:08:08 PM
Not Randy's or ICON's fault
Blame fell on the tire shop, who refunded my money and apologized. They will give new wheel installations a good shake in the future.
I'm happy, sounds like future buyers will get the information so it's all good, was handled properly, and life goes on. Fred still keeps the "get outta gettin' fired (again)" card!
Post by: Sammconn on December 01, 2022, 06:59:35 PM
Now I’m up to speed and anyone else like me who was having a duuu moment.
Glad it’s fixed and made right.
Could have been all kinds of bad.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 04, 2022, 10:49:47 AM
I have been assembling a spreadsheet on campers that bolt onto the top of the bed rails.
The Alu-Cab is my favorite so far. Here's a great build-out of one that would approximate what I might do.
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=2020+Jeep+Gladiator+Bed+Camper&&view=detail&mid=B7A7057CB792E461EC9DB7A7057CB792E461EC9D&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3D2020%2BJeep%2BGladiator%2BBed%2BCamper%26FORM%3DVDMHRS
Post by: halsey on December 04, 2022, 11:50:18 AM
So, looking out ahead some, I am thinking about the overland build on this JT
I have been assembling a spreadsheet on campers that bolt onto the top of the bed rails.
The Alu-Cab is my favorite so far. Here's a great build-out of one that would approximate what I might do.
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=2020+Jeep+Gladiator+Bed+Camper&&view=detail&mid=B7A7057CB792E461EC9DB7A7057CB792E461EC9D&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3D2020%2BJeep%2BGladiator%2BBed%2BCamper%26FORM%3DVDMHRS
Nice rig.. have you looked at A/T Overland, Mario Donovans company in Prescott AZ? Mario is a first class guy and a true real man.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 04, 2022, 12:16:29 PM
AT is on the list as is a total of five manufacturers at the moment.So, looking out ahead some, I am thinking about the overland build on this JT
I have been assembling a spreadsheet on campers that bolt onto the top of the bed rails.
The Alu-Cab is my favorite so far. Here's a great build-out of one that would approximate what I might do.
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=2020+Jeep+Gladiator+Bed+Camper&&view=detail&mid=B7A7057CB792E461EC9DB7A7057CB792E461EC9D&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3D2020%2BJeep%2BGladiator%2BBed%2BCamper%26FORM%3DVDMHRS
Nice rig.. gave you looked at A/T Overland, Mario Donovans company in Prescott AZ? Mario is a first class guy and a true real man.
This brings up a great point, or a bunch of good points for discussion:
One huge consideration, though is that almost all of the US manufacturers and one CA manufacturer is located 1,500 or more miles away. This AT camper for example is a pacific time zone operation. What that means to me is very little exposure to guys like me in the Midwest. Alu-Cab, by contrast has an installer two hours away. There are several Alu-Cab-equipped vehicles in Cincinnati!
Another consideration is that anything manufactured and sold left of the Mississippi just costs more. I don't know why, but you can buy anything a lot cheaper here than in CA or NV or AZ, especially CA.
Finally, I'd have to drive 3,500-4,000 miles to pick up that A/T camper. There are the costs for hotels out and back and all that expensive gas. That would add another $1000-$1,500 to the cost. Ship it here you say? Well, that's around $1700 and again added to a very inflated west coast price for a unit I'd have to buy sight unseen.
I'm doing what I can to educate myself through YouTube, but to be honest all the US manufacturers are losing out because of the reasons I have made note of.
Next, I have to ask myself, who is going to support me with service and parts when, essentially, there is a continent in-between us?
And the final point I have to consider is that almost all of the US and Canadian manufacturers are new kids on the block. Alu-Cab has been building that product in South Africa for more than two decades primarily for the African adventure market, but also for the rest of the world.
Now I'd like to buy US first, but that's a tall ask, all things considered.
Post by: halsey on December 04, 2022, 12:34:29 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 04, 2022, 02:11:25 PM
All good points for Alucab. Having known Mario for more than 20 years he started his company around 2000. He spent many years in Africa including 3 times to the top of Kilamanjaro. Stands by everything he does. But yeah it's far from you so extra hassle and expense.So it sounds like you know the owner quite well...
Maybe you mention me to him and what I'm looking for. Maybe he has some ideas. I'll be spending a lot of time in the Daniel Boone, with trips over to Arkansas. I will someday venture out to at least Utah.
I'm not ruling out a west coast manufacturer, just saying it adds cost, complication, and a very long drive (X2) to the prospect.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 04, 2022, 02:16:26 PM
I sold the AEV wheels today to a university professor, a great guy! He had a gladiator
He heads up their graphics design department/program.
(I hope he joins the site!)
Check out the design he came up with for his JT:
Post by: JR on December 04, 2022, 02:32:52 PM
Post by: stlaser on December 04, 2022, 02:38:27 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 04, 2022, 02:52:47 PM
Don, you need one that says mall mulchbed ratedI told him the story while he looked over the Suburban. We both laughed!
So as I refine my model, I am now thinking I may not opt for placing the spare tire on the rear bumper.
Here's a couple of reasons:
First, the vehicle was designed to carry the tire there.
Next, now having removed it once and replaced it while upgrading wheels, I found it to be pretty easy to do.
If I add in a rear topper/rooftop tent unit like the Aluma-Cab, then I'll always have to open and swing away the rear tire first, instead of simply climbing in.
The center of gravity will be lower compared to moving it up three feet.
There is no added cost to just keeping things the way they are now.
Finally, it is well-fitted the way it is now
Having now researched five well-built bed shells/clamshell campers, none of them support an integral spare tire carrier. Only Alu-Cap can be fitted with a spare tire carrier, but that can only accommodate up to a 33" diameter tire.
Good, I think I can comfortably accept this decision and move on...
Post by: Flyin6 on December 10, 2022, 12:12:54 PM
What do ya know!
Yea, from the recent back surgery, my surgeon says the nerve that motors my leg seems to be extra irritated so that has the effect of causing pain and I can deal with that, but I can't lift up my leg from the hip as easily as I used to be able to.
Why do I even mention this?
Well, did anyone notice just how tall that JT of mine is?
Ya, I'm having trouble getting into and out of the thing
That just drove a couple of decisions about this build
First, I canceled the order for my JT rock sliders which would have kicked out a bar a few inches making me have to step over that which may prove pretty challenging.
and
I discovered Rough Country is now building its own line of Electric truck steps. They make a special heavy-duty one for JL and JT jeeps which has three mount/hinge points in lieu of the traditional two that AMP Research uses.
The guy I ordered the steps from, Andrew at Extreme Jeeps said I needed to order the AMP Research steps, but those cost $1000 more than the Rough Country steps. And here's my rub with Amp. When I purchased the set for my D-Max truck, those AMP steps I bolted on that truck had a lifetime warranty. Well, when the step twisted up from use, they DID NOT warranty the step, claiming my truck twisted, and I had been lubing the folding mechanism with WD-40 instead of a dry film lubricant.
I checked my pins and sure enough, they are all nice and tight, so I did not cause any wear, I only gave them an excuse to avoid having to fix their bendy product.
Anyway, I bought the things and will bolt them on when they get here...soon, I hope
https://www.roughcountry.com/rc-jeep-electric-running-board-steps-psb42022.html?find=2022-jeep-gladiator-jt-4wd-856061&sid=MURZVV34Xg
Post by: JR on December 10, 2022, 03:40:01 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 10, 2022, 06:43:17 PM
The truth is a lot of them don't have any idea what they are talking about
So
Do not call and ask a sales guy to give you advice, as it will likely be bad
Mine tried to steer me toward the AMP Research steps. So I asked him why. He said everyone wanted them. Me: Everyone like all the 21-year-old mall crawlers?
Him: Silence
Me: you said AMP stands behind their product, but when I went back to them for a warped board on my truck they refused to honor the claim and said my truck cab/frame was bent.
Him: Oh really? I have never heard a complaint on AMP
Me: You said the Rough Country wasn't as good, why are you saying that?
Him: Not many people order them
Me: Could that be because no one has ever heard about Rough Country running boards? Amp has been around 15 years and Rough Country 18 months, do you think that has something to do with it?
Him: yes, I guess so, but AMP is strong.
ME: I am looking at the Rough Country boards. They have three hinges and three attachment points, whereas the AMP has two. Which do you think is stronger?
And so it went, and I ordered the RC units.
Post by: stlaser on December 11, 2022, 12:38:01 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 11, 2022, 08:45:02 AM
Don, I hope RC steps are better than 99% of everything else they build…..Ya, me too, and I know about RC quality.
THing is, right now @$2K + for the AMP steps I would have had to do without altogether. Perhaps I'll have some good news and they will 1. Work well, and 2. Last as long as the AMP steps do.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 11, 2022, 08:58:31 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 11, 2022, 10:23:39 AM
I’ve had amp steps on the Bus for 8 years without (knock wood) issue.Got cha beat, 10 years for the D-max
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Note that you paid something like a grand then, and now they are $2K and the warranty has rolled back from lifetime to 60,000 miles
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 11, 2022, 10:35:43 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 11, 2022, 05:12:04 PM
How much lift is on the jeep?AEV uses around 3". The stock Rubicon has 33" tires, the JT370 AEV uses 37", so 4"/2=2" additional lift for a total of 5" suspension and tire
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 13, 2022, 05:51:13 PM
Both were for approximately a 1/2 tank fill-up
I do not like to run my fuel tanks below 1/2 tank on any vehicle
1st fill-up: 15.5 There's a lot of in-town driving in there. In vehicle, indicator showed 16.8*
2nd fill-up: 17.5 This is a good balance of urban/rural/highway. In vehicle, computer showed 16.9*
* Fuel mileage calculator computes the fuel economy for the preceding 50 miles, hence the delta that is showing up a lot of the time.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 14, 2022, 04:17:16 PM
Bring this older post forward.99% chance you are not geared correctly for the tires. for most gladiators with addons and 37+ rubber 4.88 is a minimum requirement. you're likely to get away without re-gearing since it's a rubicon, but the trans will thank you for the change if you do it. Automatic right? I'm betting you're not touching the overdrives in its current configuration.It's upshifting to OD, Tate. Pretty sure of it. And yes, an 8-speed auto.
Very nice jeep BTW.
Would never think of regearing, it is what it is and I personally think AEV did a pretty good job of it. Are they your customer? Am I using Yukon parts inside those tiny-looking axles.
That's the only thing that makes me nervous is seeing tiny little Dana 44's where a 14-bolt and a D60 front ought to be. But it has a warranty, and I am going to wheel it, so if stuff should break, I'll let Jeep worry about it.
I do get what you're saying though. Jeep's factory offering with 35" tires and a stick offers the truck with 4.88's
Credit is given where credit is due
Tate is correct, this Jeep is under-geared with 4.56 and 37" tires
Today I made a 150-mile run to/from Lexington on Highway 75. To see if Tate was correct, I shifted it into manual shift mode quite a lot. Doing so immediately displays on the dash which gear the transmission is in. Almost never on any upgrade, regardless of how slight, did I see the number 8. I saw 7 a lot of the time, and the number 6 quite a bit as well. I even saw #5 once!
I was trying to maintain 70 mph and the gas mileage fell from nearly 17 down to the low 15s.
Next, I increased the speed from 70 to 74. The result was nearly the same and increasing the speed anymore beyond that it just stayed in a lower gear with the engine howling.
This engine for sure is underpowered in my opinion. It is always working at the top of its power curve with very little if any reserve.
I can concur with Tate's initial statement that in lieu of adding a bunch of engine power, the gearing will have to be changed. We had a conversation yesterday about this and settled in on a consensus that pointed to regearing to 5.13.
This actually has a profound effect on the planned modifications I was looking into for my JT. I had been researching canopies with rooftop tents and kitting out the back end with everything I'd need for an overnight or two in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
But now, I am certain I need to address this low-power situation this Jeep is suffering from. It is inconvenient now, but I could certainly live with it. But, my fear is that if I added 800 pounds and some more wind resistance, the poor motor would have zero chance of keeping up and my mileage would suffer as a result.
No absolute plans at the moment, but after Christmas, I think I will be hunting a gear change.
Post by: JR on December 14, 2022, 04:42:12 PM
Both you and I have the Dmax geared at 4.56 with 35 tires. Even that torquey thing likes around 2k (70mph).
Post by: EL TATE on December 14, 2022, 05:15:13 PM
I think I heard that many are going to 5.33 for the larger tires. You have a smallish V6 engine and the power is higher. Thats just 4% lower.
Both you and I have the Dmax geared at 4.56 with 35 tires. Even that torquey thing likes around 2k (70mph).
we went through all the numbers, and if it's a dedicated moab rock bouncer 5.38 would be ideal, but for his general use and not living at 6000 ft like some hippies, 5.13 will give him a small break on fuel mileage and still get him into overdrive when it should.
Post by: wilsonphil on December 14, 2022, 06:12:09 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 14, 2022, 06:33:45 PM
I think jeeps logic on this was you will normally never see 8th. A couple people I know that have the Rubicon in stock form said the same thing it rarely goes into 8th. Just jeeps way of of getting the MPG up so CAFE/EPA doesn't come knockingThat's an interesting theory.
But
If
It
has
the 8th gear, why not take advantage of it?
So, Tater, since you know as much as I do about shops in my A.O....Who do you recommend I go to for the transformation?
Post by: Flyin6 on December 14, 2022, 06:34:56 PM
The estimate for that Alu-Cab came in at $19,035!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Flyin6 on December 14, 2022, 06:35:42 PM
Don't bother saying it
"Stroke the check..."
Post by: EL TATE on December 14, 2022, 06:46:50 PM
I think jeeps logic on this was you will normally never see 8th. A couple people I know that have the Rubicon in stock form said the same thing it rarely goes into 8th. Just jeeps way of of getting the MPG up so CAFE/EPA doesn't come knockingThat's an interesting theory.
But
If
It
has
the 8th gear, why not take advantage of it?
So, Tater, since you know as much as I do about shops in my A.O....Who do you recommend I go to for the transformation?
Cincinnati driveilne or whoever put the LML together, they did a great job.
in KY proper, Peck's customs in Wickliff does a lot of these but they are 4.5 hrs away. next up would be the V3 Jeep Shop in Louisvile.
Post by: wilsonphil on December 14, 2022, 06:58:13 PM
I think jeeps logic on this was you will normally never see 8th. A couple people I know that have the Rubicon in stock form said the same thing it rarely goes into 8th. Just jeeps way of of getting the MPG up so CAFE/EPA doesn't come knockingThat's an interesting theory.
But
If
It
has
the 8th gear, why not take advantage of it?
So, Tater, since you know as much as I do about shops in my A.O....Who do you recommend I go to for the transformation?
Thats easy, so it doesn't break.
Post by: JR on December 14, 2022, 09:02:36 PM
Neighbor has a rubicon, said he drives in manual to keep it in 7th. Just jumps all over otherwise.
Maybe a little tune would help and just delete 8th?
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 14, 2022, 10:06:01 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 14, 2022, 11:06:37 PM
Having said that, I was looking at the dyno tests Rippie did on their new ignition coil replacements.
It's pretty amazing, but they found 45 ft/lbs in the lower RPM band over the stockers. 45 is a bunch.
So I was thinking that the regear and addition of these new coils might be a quick cure to get me back on track to adding some weight and retaining stock performance. Do that and see what that does.
Post by: kampfitt on December 15, 2022, 10:17:49 AM
Post by: JR on December 15, 2022, 11:06:08 AM
Those are nice options there for the camper. I think Don has his PC set for "find the highest price".
Just got new wires and plugs for the Tahoe. Has 135K now and think all that is stock. Never heard of coil packs helping that much on the LS, wish I could find info.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 15, 2022, 11:27:49 AM
https://www.truckcamperadventure.com/6-best-truck-topper-campers-for-the-jeep-gladiator/?utm_source=mailpoet&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=truck-camper-news_129That is an excellent source for the JT platform. I'll no doubt spend a couple of hours poring over these. I will say, I have already thoroughly investigated the Go-Fast2 unit, and it's great!
Post by: Flyin6 on December 15, 2022, 11:32:24 AM
Pretty good for just coils. Heck that and a regear?Yea, I am thinking that I should get into a re-gear PDQ and toss in those coils. I now have several sources that show just how effective those coils are.
Those are nice options there for the camper. I think Don has his PC set for "find the highest price".
Just got new wires and plugs for the Tahoe. Has 135K now and think all that is stock. Never heard of coil packs helping that much on the LS, wish I could find info.
Has to do with the design of the cylinder head and how at low speeds that motor can only deliver incomplete combustion. Turning up the temp of the ignition apparently burns all the crap the Catalytic converters were having to burn. Take a look at the vid. 45 ft/lbs at 1500-2000RPM is crazy good, almost like a low-boost supercharger.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeS3_liE99c
So let's evaluate these changes and proceed from there
But, wait, there's more!
One thing I have noticed is a lot of heavy steel bash/skid plates hanging all over.
Ever see the use of HDPE plastic sheets as skid plates? Like 1/4th the weight of steel and pretty darned strong. So, Don was thinking of putting the Jeep on a big-time diet. Remove everything it doesn't need. That and re-engineer it to be lighter. Replacing those steel skid plates with plastic ones that are really good at sliding over rocks to see if I can get a few hundred pounds off of it.
Post by: JR on December 15, 2022, 11:54:05 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 15, 2022, 08:56:13 PM
You can see it does not like higher speeds.
I just got an estimate from High-Lift a Jeep store and modification shop in the Cincinnati vicinity for the installation of 5.13 gears.
The conversation there with Rob showed them to be very knowledgeable. They actually just pushed a 5.13 gear change Rubicon out of the shop. It's looking like an early Jan swap date
He is trying to talk me into a truss kit for the front axle. He said he has seen a couple of broken axles, as in axle tubes breaking all the way around. It was like $169.99 + 4 hours of welding. I suppose it would be the right time to do it since all the gears/bearings/oil would be out of the housing.
Thinking I'll sign up for the whole shebang.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 15, 2022, 11:03:17 PM
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Post by: JR on December 15, 2022, 11:36:05 PM
So its coils and gears first?
Post by: stlaser on December 16, 2022, 08:45:31 AM
Another fuel consumption check complete. This time while driving at 70-73 on the highway, mostly one way then @ 65-67 on the return leg it yielded 16.1 MPG
You can see it does not like higher speeds.
I just got an estimate from High-Lift a Jeep store and modification shop in the Cincinnati vicinity for the installation of 5.13 gears.
The conversation there with Rob showed them to be very knowledgeable. They actually just pushed a 5.13 gear change Rubicon out of the shop. It's looking like an early Jan swap date
He is trying to talk me into a truss kit for the front axle. He said he has seen a couple of broken axles, as in axle tubes breaking all the way around. It was like $169.99 + 4 hours of welding. I suppose it would be the right time to do it since all the gears/bearings/oil would be out of the housing.
Thinking I'll sign up for the whole shebang.
I’d run that truss part past Tate, I’m not hearing of them breaking. Pretty sure they make tube sleeve kits too.
My vote is for Tons…..
Post by: Flyin6 on December 16, 2022, 02:12:32 PM
You would... ;-)Another fuel consumption check complete. This time while driving at 70-73 on the highway, mostly one way then @ 65-67 on the return leg it yielded 16.1 MPG
You can see it does not like higher speeds.
I just got an estimate from High-Lift a Jeep store and modification shop in the Cincinnati vicinity for the installation of 5.13 gears.
The conversation there with Rob showed them to be very knowledgeable. They actually just pushed a 5.13 gear change Rubicon out of the shop. It's looking like an early Jan swap date
He is trying to talk me into a truss kit for the front axle. He said he has seen a couple of broken axles, as in axle tubes breaking all the way around. It was like $169.99 + 4 hours of welding. I suppose it would be the right time to do it since all the gears/bearings/oil would be out of the housing.
Thinking I'll sign up for the whole shebang.
I’d run that truss part past Tate, I’m not hearing of them breaking. Pretty sure they make tube sleeve kits too.
My vote is for Tons…..
Post by: Flyin6 on December 16, 2022, 02:13:55 PM
What do you say about the truss kit for the front axle on my JT?
Seeing all that welding, it no doubt is going to put a bunch of heat into those tubes...Good idea or snake oil?
Post by: Flyin6 on December 16, 2022, 02:17:30 PM
JR: Rear truss too hugh?
Trying to keep the weight down. I don't want insurance if I don't need insurance. I'm gonna add some weight, but not going to beat it
and
That would certainly kill my warranty
and
I
want
Jeep
to fix stuff for awhile
So
Maybe
I
Just answered my own question...Just do the gear swap, and yes, JR, maybe change out the front springs to get it level, and I was thinking some airbags to stuff inside the rear springs to use when I load it up for the big expedition to the mall over in Cincinnati.
Post by: wilsonphil on December 17, 2022, 08:36:08 AM
All the engineering is done you just have to buy the parts, it will end up being much less in the long run and be 100% more dependable.
and if I had to bet the MPG wont be much different.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 17, 2022, 09:09:19 AM
simplifies the process and as stated it’s a mass production swap. No guessing no makin your own stuff. It just works Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Flyin6 on December 17, 2022, 12:12:23 PM
Just put the Hemi in it and call it a day!Ya, I may. Let me dig into it some more. The JL can be ordered with a 6.4, so everything has to be there.
All the engineering is done you just have to buy the parts, it will end up being much less in the long run and be 100% more dependable.
and if I had to bet the MPG wont be much different.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 17, 2022, 05:05:57 PM
5,520 total weight (3/4 fuel tank + 253 for driver)
2440 Rear axle
3080 front axle
This will be the baseline I will strive to remain close to. Modifications are about, to begin with the addition of the electric steps and the winch
I am somewhat surprised the JT hardtop edition with F/R steel bumpers and way big 37" tires weigh so little. Take my lardiness away and it's under 5,300! Not bad for a 1/2-ton truck
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 17, 2022, 10:24:51 PM
Just put the Hemi in it and call it a day!Not to steal your thunder but I believe I suggested that on day one….
All the engineering is done you just have to buy the parts, it will end up being much less in the long run and be 100% more dependable.
and if I had to bet the MPG wont be much different.
Or….
https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1122801_the-hellephant-in-the-room-hemi-crate-engine-delivers-1-000-horsepower-for-29-995
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Post by: JR on December 18, 2022, 02:29:17 AM
LS, LS, LS, way more support.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:00:19 PM
Ya, it's been darned hard to lift my leg up to where it is nearly kicked straight out, which is the angle required to enter the high-sill Gladiator. That leg is not coming back as fast as I would have expected. So I got most of the install done today
The steps are well boxed and I would say dome in at somewhere around 50 pounds
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:02:32 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:04:04 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:04:56 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:06:49 PM
I did not realize they were so heavy. I'd say it is close to an even tradeoff in weight between the new and the stock stuff.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:08:29 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:10:05 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:12:54 PM
Before I took out the seats, I pulled out the plastic storage bin that is located beneath the rear seats. I will not be reusing it but converting it to a flat floor to haul Bernese Mountain dogs from one site of mischief to another.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:15:00 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 18, 2022, 06:20:42 PM
Right behind the glove box is a bus for the door switches that must be accessed to attach the "Signal" leg of the harness.
And that's where things got ugly.
First of all the leg of the harness was not labeled "Signal" as is clearly depicted in the installation manual. So I had to do the process of elimination to actually find it. Then routing it under the dash, behind the center console, up and behind a ton of stuff to the glove box, was no fun.
It has the tiniest of connectors that plugs into the factory buss, and right off, I broke it!
After hooking up the ground and hot leads and hooking up the motors to the harness, I had nada...
The fit is not good, and my eyesight is not all that great in a dark garage. So for now I have walked away from it replete with a massive headache. I'll get back on it in the morning.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 18, 2022, 06:45:21 PM
I did in grandmas garage today
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20221218/091bed0cb750b8e63ee26b525826c6d4.jpg)
Of course Amazon short shipped me enough connecting wires to hook them all up but they will be here soon
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Post by: JR on December 18, 2022, 06:53:19 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 19, 2022, 08:57:14 AM
So you have the Amped on your DMax, right? Am I seeing this right is they swing front down from the side vs up/down liked the amped version?Yes and yes
Swing down from the up and stored position. Pretty cool, but I am of course used to the AMP research steps which I have on both the Truck and the Suburban (Which I still own)
Post by: EL TATE on December 19, 2022, 12:04:00 PM
Tate, you on this thread?
What do you say about the truss kit for the front axle on my JT?
Seeing all that welding, it no doubt is going to put a bunch of heat into those tubes...Good idea or snake oil?
Real deal on this one; not so much breaking as it is bending ever so slightly and putting strain against inner axle seals and having seal failure lead to axle failure. trussing is a good idea in this guy's book, but sleeving works too. i do not sell components for either job however.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 19, 2022, 04:26:15 PM
I put a call into Rough Country tech and had a couple of helpful calls with a gentleman named Marty. He said another customer had a similiar issue this week!
The problem seems to be either the control module and or wiring harness in my truck is no good, or the bus providing the signal for the module to extend is not supplying a sufficient signal. Yea, that's a real thing. With the preceding customer, he had plugged the harness into the bus and nada. He moved it around into one of the seven other available slots and finally, he found one with enough voltage to send a decent signal to the controller.
Unfortunately for me, I had busted the delicate connector early on and no longer had that option. I tried using some audio style wire splices, but none of the three locations I chose worked either. So I must have something else going on.
Rough Country is sending me out a replacement controller and wiring harness which I will install when it gets here. For now, my goose is cooked, and I am back to driving my truck!
Post by: Flyin6 on December 19, 2022, 04:59:47 PM
The subject is the upcoming 5.13 gear change.
First of all, it is scheduled for either the first week in Jan (short fall) or second week in Jan (for sure). Tate: They price-matched your offer to direct sell to me, so I'll just do that. You get the sale in any event. Without too much fanfare, that should all happen, and I'll get the Jeep properly geared.
As for the axle truss, I engaged my dealership to get their feelings about the non-stock jeep stuff vs the factory warranty. This ignited quite the discussion when a writer stated anything, not of factory manufacturer found on the vehicle voids the factory warranty. Welp, that's a no-go, so I pushed back a bit, "Anything not manufactured by Mopar and I lose my warranty?" I asked. So I continued asking, what if I use non-factory wax or non-factory oil or filters for the engine?
That caused a moment of silence. My point is, I insisted, that some things are certainly permitted, so since my Jeep is already a highly modified AEV creation, what about that? Well, they went tilt and the conversation ended up at Mopar headquarters. They started a case file and pushed it back down to the regional representative. Apparently, he is the guy (or she is the gal) who makes such determinations. I will get my moment to be heard.
I was not asking to install the 5.13 gears, that is on me, and AEV already has the axles. What this was about was the axle truss High-Lift Jeep wanted to install. I wanted to do that, but am not willing to toss the factory warranty at the moment.
I can see some peripheral issues coming up halfway between here and Moab where I need Jeep support.
More to come on this issue...
Post by: JR on December 19, 2022, 05:21:12 PM
Post by: stlaser on December 19, 2022, 06:15:06 PM
Post by: JR on December 19, 2022, 08:17:11 PM
Other logic here is that the add on may void the axle assembly warranty, however that’s now on the modifier shop imo. Worst case scenario you go one tons which should have been the first direction anyhow…. :popcorn:
Skip all the upgrades and go here, just $$$ and you know its solid.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 19, 2022, 10:30:12 PM
1-ton axles in a vehicle whose engine makes 40 BHP! :knucklehead:
And you just added 600 lbs in weight to!
Psycho :facepalm:
Post by: stlaser on December 19, 2022, 11:17:20 PM
You people are psycho!
1-ton axles in a vehicle whose engine makes 40 BHP! :knucklehead:
And you just added 600 lbs in weight to!
Psycho :facepalm:
Just drop to a lower ratio, rpms will make up the difference! :tongue:
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 20, 2022, 07:30:37 AM
https://lloydsautomotive.net/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-magnuson-moss-act/
Don, legally they cannot void your warranty unless they can prove the aftermarket part caused the failure.
If you have an axle failure after trussing or sleeving, it’s not a stretch for them to blame either your gears or the truss/sleeves, but an engine failure would be hard to tie back to an axle modification.
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 10:36:45 AM
Stock:
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 10:40:21 AM
I was quite surprised.
AEV manufacturers highly engineered parts. Everything overlaps the adjacent parts and completely integrates. They must have reviewed the ankle bone is connected to the elbow bone before designing this thing.
The dissembly and discovery process begins:
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 10:42:42 AM
The winch mount plate is heavy as well. but when carrying the load for a 10K-12K winch, it needs to be
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 10:46:23 AM
The wings are also captured by the front cover (Yes the bumper actually has a hot-stamped boron-steel front cover. All that is to save weight while being uber-strong. Suffice it to say there is considerable disassembly required and it is not a 2-hour job...BY FAR!
So the disassembly continues:
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 10:48:42 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 10:53:14 AM
No, I did not choose a $2300 Warn winch but picked up a Black Friday discounted Harbor Freight 12 K winch, the really good one.
After reading the reviews, I can see that this is one of those pieces HF will throw a bunch of money into just to get their name out there. I watched a vid where a JT owner winched up several other vehicles on this steep incline in BC. He made the comment that he could just not kill this winch.
Just look at the beef of that hook!
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 10:54:45 AM
The second photo shows an area of interference that had to be removed so I could release the clutch for free wheeling.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 11:13:22 AM
I'll coat the bare metal edges later
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 11:14:32 AM
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 21, 2022, 12:04:30 PM
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Post by: JR on December 21, 2022, 12:45:02 PM
Just don't bump any trailer hitches.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 02:21:23 PM
I hear nothing but good about the HF winches. Was one bad review from the wranglestar dude who bolted it to an alum bumper, then broke the housing.I'll be on the look out ;-)
Just don't bump any trailer hitches.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 09:19:16 PM
I could have finished it, but I like to work slowly and put a lot of thought into every step that adds a lot of work time.
I started off wiring the thing. First, I went to the attached cable and quickly noticed there was only one attached cable, the positive side.
I routed it away from moving things in that cramped engine compartment up to a supplied battery shutoff then to the battery. I had to create a mount for the switch which I made from 1.5" aluminum angle.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 09:19:55 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 09:25:41 PM
And wouldn't ya know it, it was hidden from view, so I had to pull the sway bar to get access. Next, I dropped the nut inside the case of the winch and lost that. Luckily, HF supplies a very complete accessories packet that had some brass stud extenders. I attached that and routed the black cable to it, then directly to the battery.
A quick check showed I had power to the winch so I gave it a quick test. It sounds very well-built and powerful.
Note that to get the power you move the switch to what would normally be the cutoff position!
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2022, 09:29:36 PM
That process is very much two steps forward and then one step back. It is like fitting a puzzle together. And sometimes you get to do the same thing a couple/several times before you figure out the exact hardware stack up and order of reassembly.
One thing I did notice is that the AEV monster lights will not fit now! If they did, I think I'd opt to leave them out or reposition them because the radiator is starting to get crowded and all that stuff has to be affecting/limiting airflow.
I'll give it some thought, but expect something to change here
Post by: stlaser on December 21, 2022, 10:03:48 PM
Post by: JR on December 21, 2022, 10:09:23 PM
I think Yankem ropes make a fairlead that captures the loop on the line vs having the big hook on there. Kinda a tossup on that as the hook is handy, but soft shackles are way safer.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 22, 2022, 12:05:14 AM
Looks good but wouldn't it had been easier trim the handle a little vs cutting a chunk from the bumper?I'll look into it JR
I think Yankem ropes make a fairlead that captures the loop on the line vs having the big hook on there. Kinda a tossup on that as the hook is handy, but soft shackles are way safer.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 22, 2022, 12:08:03 AM
I agree I wouldn’t pay $2300 for a new warn winch either. In fact I have yet to pay over $500 for any of the older warn units I own. Most sub $200 and then refurb as needed. Best of luck to ya on the HF winch :likebutton:I tell ya S, for a HF, this is really top-of-the-line. I had their older 12K winch and it looked cheap and sounded different too. This one looks like a Warn Xenon in every way. I think it even has a faster line speed than the Warn unit.
Dunno, won't know for sure until I get a couple of good pulls on it, but with the trails around in the Daniel Boone, winch time won't be long in coming.
Post by: JR on December 22, 2022, 12:27:13 AM
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 22, 2022, 01:23:08 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 22, 2022, 12:57:54 PM
If someone can break it or test it, you can. Find some mulch and go for it!!I'll try a test run on the Rubicon before venturing into deep, fresh mulch! Who knows what the depth of that stuff could be? And what if there is a curb covered up in there somewhere that I could hit?
Seriously, what were you thinkin'?
;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on December 22, 2022, 04:50:57 PM
To the credit of Rough Country. You may recall a couple of days ago I broke a 5-cent electrical connector, trying to move it from one place in the factory Jeep Bus to another. I did not know then, that this particular bus organic to the Jeep is notorious for not providing an adequate signal from all of its available ports to drive something you want to work when a door is opened or closed.
You may recall I spoke to a technician at Rough Country. He offered to send me a whole new box, and a chipping credit to get the old one back to him. or the parts I needed. I opted for the second option, saying to just send me that leg of the wiring harness and a new controller.
Today a FedEx truck delivered me a complete kit! He sent me the whole thing, new!
That is standing behind your product and moved RC up a couple of notches in my book. I'll visit them again!
With this major winter storm descending on us in a few hours with below zero temps, I will probably not be working on the Jeep again until after Christmas...
Post by: JR on December 22, 2022, 06:27:38 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 26, 2022, 03:28:16 PM
I was researching the suspension and made some discoveries.
It is equipped with the "normal weight/light load" springset. What this means is when I start adding more than 300 pounds I will start to get big sag.
Bummer
That means the suspension will need some upgrades. I sent AEV a note asking them about it. They apparently also manufacture a set of "Over-landing" springs that have a 3" ride height vs the 2.5" and will carry 700-800 additional pounds.
I will need to change the springs, so I'll make this option number 1.
But I also want to raise it another inch or two. My thinking is that 4.5" or less is a mild lift, but the 2" will get those running boards more ground clearance.
So looking into more lift, well, the control arms will no longer work, so I'd be looking at 60% of a whole new lift. Dunno, but more to come on this...
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 26, 2022, 07:58:54 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 27, 2022, 11:32:19 AM
Metalcloak make good stuffDang, Dave
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You're right! Wow, that stuff is a generation better than anything I am currently looking at. Gunna make a phone call!!!!!!!!
Now here is where it is hard for me to exercise self-control. One side of me says go full tilt, long travel, and on and on. The other side is telling me I plan to overland this with a top-heavy tent, and I just need some lift and good stuff. Really what I will be mostly doing is highway miles to wonderful off-road sites and camp areas, so that needs to be a large part of choosing parts for the suspension.
In any event, it looks like I'm gonna have 4.56 used gears and a used AEV RT suspension system for sale...
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 27, 2022, 02:28:38 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on December 27, 2022, 04:25:15 PM
Call them up and speak with them about your intent. They have a very knowledgeable group there.I left them a message. We'll see if they call me back.
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I spent some time reading about their stuff. That is the longest travel suspension lift kit sold! And did you see those 6-pack shocks? I've never seen anything like that. Not what I need in my truck but that technology is all new.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 28, 2022, 06:09:34 PM
Dave, you were very right about them, they are good people in more ways than one. I would very much like to work with them.
We talked over some ideas and my specific requirements and tossed around a few ideas. I think I will be working with them in the end, but they currently only offer a 3.5" lift but may be interested in doing a 4.5" kit. I would install that kit should we be able to make it all work out.
I just sent a message back to Chris detailing my requirements.
Post by: Flyin6 on December 28, 2022, 06:11:31 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 28, 2022, 06:15:25 PM
Rough Country had sent me a completely new electric running board kit from which I robbed the ECM and the wiring harness. I reinstalled that into the chassis.
With just a minimum of work, I had fully functioning electric folding steps
Post by: Flyin6 on December 28, 2022, 06:16:33 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 28, 2022, 06:19:27 PM
This is my only concern, that being the components of these steps are somewhat exposed to trail hazards. Well, time will tell if these things can survive.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 28, 2022, 07:10:09 PM
So the jeep sits two inches taller then stock?
You struggle getting into the jeep now and want to go another 2.5” ?
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Post by: stlaser on December 28, 2022, 07:28:19 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on December 28, 2022, 07:32:44 PM
Good lookin front end ya got there!Jeep is 2.5" lift now
So the jeep sits two inches taller then stock?
You struggle getting into the jeep now and want to go another 2.5” ?
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The electric running boards just made getting in a breeze.
No struggle with them
Want to go higher to keep those boards away from rocks
Make sense?
Post by: JR on December 28, 2022, 07:49:43 PM
Post by: stlaser on December 28, 2022, 08:09:52 PM
Good lookin front end ya got there!Jeep is 2.5" lift now
So the jeep sits two inches taller then stock?
You struggle getting into the jeep now and want to go another 2.5” ?
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The electric running boards just made getting in a breeze.
No struggle with them
Want to go higher to keep those boards away from rocks
Make sense?
Not really, need tons now and bigger tires….. :popcorn:
Post by: Flyin6 on December 31, 2022, 05:52:15 PM
Dyno proved 40-45 ft/lbs. way down low, 1500-2000RPM.
I see that I will have to remove the upper half of the intake to install it, so a bit of a job
Also found a company making seat track extenders that will get me an additional 5" rear seat travel. Everything is way too tight in there. Driving over two hours gets to be a big ask, this should help.
Electric steps are working well. Kat loves them!
Post by: Flyin6 on January 02, 2023, 07:31:08 PM
I established the truck came with the lighter-duty AEV 2.5" springs which will not work with the Overlanding additions which will be coming. Here is the response I just got back from AEV concerning my inquiry about upgrading their suspension:
Comments from AEV Tech Support:
Hello Donald,
Sorry for the delayed reply, our offices were closed over the holiday break.
The tallest coil spring that we offer as an option on our 2.5" DualSport kit, is our 3" High Capacity spring. We do not recommend adding a coil spacer. Anything over a 3" lift height will require steering componentry upgrades. Our Bilstein 5100 shocks and shock mounts are made to fit up to a 3" lift, so anything taller, will compromise the shock.
If you have any further questions, please give us a call at 248-926-0256.
Have a great day, David
Good people to be sure. But I do not see AEV as an alternative for my suspension needs.
So far I have been evaluating various suspension systems. I really want a bit taller than 3.5" but admittedly, on/off-road manners and the ability to carry some additional weight on occasion will be the determining factors.
I looked at several 4" and 4.5" suspension systems. Some of them have rubber joints and some have Johnny-style joints.
Either has its good or bad points. The rubber joints are maintenance-free, but can really limit suspension flex/Clevite bushings used in the stock Jeep arms have a max deflection of around 8 degrees.
Next up is the metal Johnny joint which can flex up to around double what the rubber joints can do. But those joints wear out and must be greased frequently, and they squeak. I have experienced this myself with some of my builds.
Thanks to Dave suggesting Metal-Cloak a Sacramento company I discovered that they have created a new joint made from rubber bushings that require zero maintenance and can flex to just over 22 degrees. That is huge. It allows this JT of mine to flex out 37" if I use their 3.5" kit!
I have made no decision yet, but the two best I can see are going to be Clayton engineering and Metal Cloak. If I had to choose today, it would be the latter. They have two shock options that will get you to the crazy flex so that's that for now.
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=metal+cloak+bushings&&view=detail&mid=B9454168684DF393000DB9454168684DF393000D&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dmetal%2Bcloak%2Bbushings%26FORM%3DHDRSC3
Post by: Flyin6 on January 02, 2023, 07:32:36 PM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 02, 2023, 10:04:53 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 02, 2023, 11:44:35 PM
Have they got mulch beds that deep at the mall?Haven't checked
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But
The holes I've been in in the DBNF can be thought-provoking
With weight or towing something like that crazee kamper of mine, I'm gonna want some flex.
With the electric steps, I want more lift
And with all things I own, I can't stand to leave it alone...
My psychiatrist cannot explain this yet.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 03, 2023, 08:07:45 AM
And that’s the bottom line , lolHave they got mulch beds that deep at the mall?And with all things I own, I can't stand to leave it alone...
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My psychiatrist cannot explain this yet.
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 01:45:05 PM
So
I went out this morning and ripped the top of the motor off in anticipation.
You'll see, but I sawed off the noise-canceling chambers in the stock intake tube too!
Pics coming...
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:32:39 PM
So as always, here is the start shot:
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:34:13 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:35:55 PM
I'll get back to the modification in a moment
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:42:55 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:44:28 PM
I taped over the ports to prevent the nuts I dropped in there from escaping ;-)
Three coils circled are the reason I had to pull the upper manifold. They are hidden beneath the mani.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:47:04 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:50:39 PM
This pipe was flat-out easy. I filled one hole, then 10 min later the second, then in 10 more minutes, finished with a blend application. I used about 1/3rd of the available epoxy
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:51:42 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:53:26 PM
Here is a comparo of the stock to Ripp. They are identical except for the color and what is going on inside.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 05:57:07 PM
There was a bunch of added space gained by the removal by that air tube sound chamber assembly. I would like to think there is now added space for cooling air to flow around the motor.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 06:01:19 PM
And although I could easily discount it to the psychological aspect of wanting to experience a change, I have to say the engine feels a wee bit more, eager to rev.
I filled the tank and reset the odometer to measure the distance. I am hoping to see a bit better fuel consumption numbers in a couple of hundred miles. The last tank delivered 16.14 MPG, so that is the baseline from which we will compare future measurements.
Post by: wyorunner on January 04, 2023, 06:42:07 PM
Good work chief!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 04, 2023, 07:02:25 PM
What aftermarket air systems are available? I know there is some water in that MT range you keep talkin about. Do you need to fab a snorkel or buy a off the shelf system? Utah is out of water so I think it would be a waste in this area but I still see many Tacomas and jeep and 4Runner’s with roof top tents that never open, snorkels that will never ford water, expensive fuel can systems that have never been filled.
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Post by: JR on January 04, 2023, 07:14:22 PM
I have to turn my VPN off to see the pics, what a pain. Nice job thought. Can't find anything like that for my LS, but they say wires and good plugs help.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 04, 2023, 09:27:05 PM
JR, I'll look at that plumber's tape, like the Gorilla tape. I actually have some of the latter.
Dave, I see that stuff all the time as well. But I'm as guilty as they are. Have a camper that has not been on a trip (yet). Have an Overland Suburban which has only been off-road a couple of times, but no adventures like I intended when I built it.
With this Jeep, you all may recall that I went wheeling the first weekend I owned it. With this one, I plan to break out of the building and not using thing.(I hope)
As for the snorkel, it's funny that everyone always goes straight to deep water fording. In the Stan, everything had a snorkel and there was almost zero water anywhere over there. I'd use the snorkel to try and pull from the freshest air for the motor. Secondary to that, should I find myself in deeper water than I thought (Due to a major miscalculation) then maybe it would save me from a hydro-locked motor, but I suspect the engine would have shorted out well before that.
I'm looking at the AEV snorkel, the Mopar unit, and one from Australia. Each of them requires a half-moon cut into the side of the hood to access the stock air box. And yes, I plan on keeping the stock air box.
Post by: stlaser on January 05, 2023, 10:50:11 AM
Sorry Boss, ran across this and I had too……
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Post by: EL TATE on January 05, 2023, 11:38:26 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230105/a8920d94ce8a464182f95f2c4e9018c6.jpg)
Sorry Boss, ran across this and I had too……
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Never apologize for your artwork Shawn
Post by: cj7ox on January 05, 2023, 12:54:46 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 05, 2023, 05:53:24 PM
Inexcusable!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230105/a8920d94ce8a464182f95f2c4e9018c6.jpg)
Sorry Boss, ran across this and I had too……
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Never apologize for your artwork Shawn
Both you and Shawn are fired
But, Shawn has a "get outta gettin fired again card"
Which means
He remains seated
Whereas
You are fired! or banned, or sanctioned, or something like that ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on January 05, 2023, 06:03:35 PM
Next item, as I close in on the suspension system I will ultimately install, the offerings from Rock Krawler have come into focus. The thing that is unique to them is that they add a triangulation bracket to the rear control arms which eliminates the rear track bar. That is cool because the track bars can bind with the control arms since they run in different planes. Speaking with Bob Cochran at Rock Krawler, he states the ride is much better. And all the tail wagging is a thing of the past when doing things like crossing RR tracks. They have a 3.0" and a 4.5" system. Either will require I install a new driveshaft.
Tate, does Randy's offer front drive shafts for the lifted JLs and JTs?
Post by: wyorunner on January 06, 2023, 02:13:19 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230105/a8920d94ce8a464182f95f2c4e9018c6.jpg)This is hilarious! Especially down here, locals build em tall because it looks cool, nothing more. Even the 2wd rigs get 6-8” lifts. Not my cup o tea, but comical all the same. So this image fits very very well!
Sorry Boss, ran across this and I had too……
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Post by: EL TATE on January 06, 2023, 11:51:43 AM
I've been driving all over creation today, stopping by the shop where the 5.13 Yukon gears get installed starting on Monday. There is more pep in it I think. Here's another thing. The mileage computer always seemed to settle in around 16.5 give or take. But after all the driving today, which consumed about half a tank of fuel, it is sitting at 18.5. That is meaningless at the moment but the top-up in a day or so will tell the real numbers. Wouldn't it be nice if the mileage actually increases? According to Ripp, the biggest torque numbers occur down low in the revs where the vehicle stays during normal driving.
Next item, as I close in on the suspension system I will ultimately install, the offerings from Rock Krawler have come into focus. The thing that is unique to them is that they add a triangulation bracket to the rear control arms which eliminates the rear track bar. That is cool because the track bars can bind with the control arms since they run in different planes. Speaking with Bob Cochran at Rock Krawler, he states the ride is much better. And all the tail wagging is a thing of the past when doing things like crossing RR tracks. They have a 3.0" and a 4.5" system. Either will require I install a new driveshaft.
Tate, does Randy's offer front drive shafts for the lifted JLs and JTs?
I have front but no rear. built by JE Reel for us. YDS055 2018+ JL RUBICON & JT GLADIATOR (GAS) FRONT DRIVESHAFT, 1350 HD, 2DR & 4DR, A/T oversized u/joint comes with yokes. fits up to 4.5" of lift.
Post by: JR on January 06, 2023, 01:09:32 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 06, 2023, 01:23:02 PM
Got it, thanksI've been driving all over creation today, stopping by the shop where the 5.13 Yukon gears get installed starting on Monday. There is more pep in it I think. Here's another thing. The mileage computer always seemed to settle in around 16.5 give or take. But after all the driving today, which consumed about half a tank of fuel, it is sitting at 18.5. That is meaningless at the moment but the top-up in a day or so will tell the real numbers. Wouldn't it be nice if the mileage actually increases? According to Ripp, the biggest torque numbers occur down low in the revs where the vehicle stays during normal driving.
Next item, as I close in on the suspension system I will ultimately install, the offerings from Rock Krawler have come into focus. The thing that is unique to them is that they add a triangulation bracket to the rear control arms which eliminates the rear track bar. That is cool because the track bars can bind with the control arms since they run in different planes. Speaking with Bob Cochran at Rock Krawler, he states the ride is much better. And all the tail wagging is a thing of the past when doing things like crossing RR tracks. They have a 3.0" and a 4.5" system. Either will require I install a new driveshaft.
Tate, does Randy's offer front drive shafts for the lifted JLs and JTs?
I have front but no rear. built by JE Reel for us. YDS055 2018+ JL RUBICON & JT GLADIATOR (GAS) FRONT DRIVESHAFT, 1350 HD, 2DR & 4DR, A/T oversized u/joint comes with yokes. fits up to 4.5" of lift.
Post by: Bob Smith on January 07, 2023, 12:05:46 PM
Post by: JR on January 07, 2023, 02:12:00 PM
LT,LT,LT !!!
FIFY
Post by: Flyin6 on January 07, 2023, 06:42:35 PM
So before you cut the hood for the snorkel, shoe horn a HP Chevy motor/tranny in there and set up as large as possible wheels and tires and you won’t even need the snorkel. Once you get all that in there, make up a hitch and you can pull that fancy home built trailer and not have to setup a camper or tent on top. It’s a jeep, might as well build the baddest around.I do like the way you think!
So, ya, me knowin' me, I'd say some other much bigger motor is in the future if I keep it a few years.
But
I'm gonna try and pull that camper I built with the JT.
Yep, and I'm making the prep for that starting tomorrow.
Tomorrow, we drop it off at High-Lift, a local Jeep modification company to get Randy's 5.13 gears installed.
With those new cogs, it should have all the power I'll need to pull a sub-4K camper
But, then again, we'll see!
Post by: JR on January 07, 2023, 06:55:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 07, 2023, 07:03:06 PM
6.2, 6L90, its only money.If I do it, 5.3 or 6.2 LT with a 10-speed!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 07, 2023, 08:23:59 PM
Pull that motor out of the useless driveway savor and put it in the jeep!!
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 08, 2023, 11:06:14 AM
Now I might have missed but wasn’t this jeep OEM could have had a diesel ten speed?Jes the Jeep could have been a diesel 8-speed
Pull that motor out of the useless driveway savor and put it in the jeep!!
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but
Costs 6K more
and
the 3.0 eco diesel is proving to be very unreliable. So much so that Jeep is thinking of pulling it as an offering.
Tons of warranty claims on this motor
Now to be fair, the warranty issues are mostly related to things that faulty emissions or fuel injection are creating from what I can see.
A couple/few years from now, I might consider installing either the 6.4 Hemi or a chevy 5.3 or 6.2 LT motor. LT chevies differ from LS in that they have a direct injection into the combustion chamber as the diesel does. Much better motor in all ways than the Mopar.
Ya, I would like one of those. Double the HP and torque and mid 20's mileage in a package that is smooth and reliable.
Chevy for the win!
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 08, 2023, 10:57:47 PM
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Post by: JR on January 09, 2023, 02:45:21 AM
Drive what you have and be happy. Take that money and buy you a full auto HK33
Plus another 20K
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 10:56:01 AM
After the 5.13 gear install, I'll be looking toward the suspension system. I am getting close to executing that decision. I have three very good companies, Metal Cloak, Rock Krawler, and Clayton to pick from. I have now had conversations with each of the manufacturers. I can say they all present as really nice folks, and each sells some great products. This morning I spoke with Adam, part owner of Clayton Off-Road. He is a great guy who is full of knowledge and represents his company well. I would say they are top contenders for my little suspension selection process.
Hopefully, I will be able to make that selection in the coming days and get that happening.
For now, we wait out the gear swap using Randy's Worldwide Yukon gears supplied by none other than our own Tate Hudson.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 10:56:49 AM
Drive what you have and be happy. Take that money and buy you a full auto HK33Solid advice
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But
Remember who you're giving that advice to ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:04:27 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:12:09 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:12:58 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:15:47 PM
But to my surprise, my truck was already nearly ripped down to bare axles!
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:17:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:20:53 PM
Rob explained he was shooting for a Wednesday to Thursday completion and delivery back to me. He said they put 50 miles minimum on the gears with three hot-to-cold heat cycles and that takes time
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:39:14 PM
Which just happened to have four as in 4, Hemi conversions going on. Three of them were with the 900HP demon engine and one with the 6.4 Hemi 500 hp engine.
Each of them had this super cool fender trim modification. You see, the stock jeep has plastic fenders with another plastic fender lower half and fender liner which also becomes the engine shroud. The Rubicon has special fenders which are raised two inches over the sport, willy's, Mojave and other trim levels. The Ruby is intended to be a focused hard-core off-roader. Now, this trim mod cuts away the inner fender liner yielding a bunch more tire clearance then utilizes an aftermarket kit to re-support the fender. You must then purchase someone's inner fender liner to protect the engine.
I really like that particular mod and think I am a candidate for it. Here are some pics of the modded front and rear fenders:
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:41:34 PM
You can see the cool fender trim mod on this one too.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 04:42:51 PM
Post by: JR on January 09, 2023, 04:50:59 PM
Post by: Nate on January 09, 2023, 07:17:30 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 09, 2023, 09:21:00 PM
Stroke the checkYou related to Tex?
Post by: wyorunner on January 09, 2023, 09:53:14 PM
Stroke the checkWise words from a senior enlisted!
Don Edit:
There, I FIFY
(Who likes to watch the chief spend his money)
Post by: Flyin6 on January 11, 2023, 05:50:08 PM
I poured over everything I could find about Metal Cloak, Rock Crawler, and Clayton off-road.
Although I liked all three, at the end I went with Clayton Off-Road. You just can't find anyone with anything negative to say about their suspension. I think that the Metal Cloak will droop out a bit further, and Rock Crawler eliminates the rear track bar, but for me, the Clayton suspension featuring its nearly indestructible construction is tops. The vid in the link is of an otherwise rather stock Rubicon Gladiator on a day ride into the George Washington national forest. I think you can agree, this Clayton suspension is just a robust, tough, great running suspension.
https://youtu.be/4ZbOX_poL5k
Post by: Flyin6 on January 11, 2023, 05:53:01 PM
It includes a transfer case yoke to convert that from that CV joint business it currently has from the factory
(I'm thinking I may replace the stock two-piece rear driveshaft with a single piece with the double Cardan as well.)
Post by: EL TATE on January 12, 2023, 04:19:24 PM
the new JL/JT design gears, (2018+) have been engineered for less parasitic drag for the ever popular EPA requirements. what does this mean to you? Glad you asked; the break in procedure that has stood the test of time for decades needs to be tweaked for larger tires, as the contact pattern on the new design gears is very focused, i.e. smaller, with more pressure.
INITIAL BREAK IN DRIVE:
- in town speeds, no hwy 15-20 min w/ a 30 min cool down period.
- repeat 2-3 times
(highlift is doing this for you)
INITIAL FREEWAY DRIVE:
- general hwy speeds OK, no more than 15 miles at a time with 20-30 min cool down in between for the 1st 45 miles.
- if you can't hold your meat hooks on the diff housing for more than 2-3 seconds it's too hot, wait longer
REMAINDER OF 500 MILE BREAK IN:
-continue to drive normally, no heavy acceleration or braking or towing for 500 miles total.
-CHANGE YOUR DIFF FLUID!!!
- Synthetics are OK at this time if you follow that crowd
INITIAL TOWING BREAK IN:
- follow steps 1 and 2
- after 45 miles on hwy are complete, you may resume normal abusive, i mean, normal driving patterns.
fluid change/maintenance intervals should be followed as prescribed in the owners manual, but i recommend following the fleet or HD version if they show one. typically shorter mileage between fluid changes.
the new gear cut and larger and larger tires have been creating a "towing" scenario on unloaded vehicles and demands greater attention to the process.
thank you for taking the time to read yukon tech tips with Tate.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 12, 2023, 04:33:05 PM
So, I just returned from the shop with the new 5.13s installed. Rob and Matt up there were very informative. They had me sign a warranty paper, saying, "This is for Tate!" I guess our favorite gear guy is well-known.
The mechanic who installed the gears did the first two heat cycles on the gears, and last night Rob took the Jeep home with him. So the first part is done. And I saw the patterns, and they were very good. Centered an a bit to the outside, I think... Anyway, the tech, Matt said they came in perfectly, and he does a ton of Yukon gears. Not many of the 5.13s though. They want feedback on how the JT performs with them.
Driving home on the highway, I was in a traffic jam that was creeping along at 30ish. I did have to go up a long hill at 50. That was likely the hardest I pushed it. Once out of the literal Ohio River valley, it was a 62-mph cruise home for 15 more minutes. The whole commute was 32 miles. Then I parked it and am currently letting it cool all the way down to ambient.
I do not have much of an initial driving impression other than to say:
1. The gears are absolutely silent. The AEV 4.56 gears made a little bit of noise, these are quiet.
2. Only using maybe 1/3-1/2 throttle, it feels peppier if that is any indication at all.
3. I filled up near the shop and started a fuel check, resetting the computer. It is currently sitting at 16.5. Normal is right there at 16.4.
4. I checked what gear the transmission was in several times. I think for the first time ever I saw "8" while on an incline!
In other news, the new front driveshaft from Adams in Las Vegas has shipped.
Post by: EL TATE on January 12, 2023, 06:44:08 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 12, 2023, 08:30:14 PM
Great to hear! And while several of our items have definitely humbled us, (Phil's hubs, cough cough), we are the only aftermarket manufacturer that builds the gears for JL/JT to factory specs. And if it makes anyone feel any better, we are actively moving as much production OUT of China as possible. South Korea, the Philippines, India, and yes, the US. It will take a while to get this cancer cut out, but it's happening.Thats big for a US company.
and
We here will continue to support Randy's!
Oh and I think I need a quote on the front and rear diff covers. Unfortunately, Shawn is not making them for these new (Non-Dana 44) Rubicon axles.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:08:24 PM
Driveshaft is inbound.
3.5" Clayton Lift kit set to be shipped first of the week.
I made a decision on which shock I was going to run. I like the Billsteins 5100s but they are pretty much top of the entry-level shock department. Although I think I would be very happy with a longer set of those for the new lift, I think I ought to get mostly done with the suspension all at once. So instead of staying entry level, I am upgrading to something short of the 2.5" or 3" bypass shocks which run #1200 ea or more. For around $2K, these Falcon shocks have 2.25" bodies, remote gas reservoirs, are rebuildable, and are adjustable.
The added cylinder is the reservoir for the Nitrogen which also has its own piston that keeps the gas and hydraulic oil separated so foaming can never take place. The knob has two settings: Soft and hard. The knob then provides a wide range within the main selection to fine-tune it in 10 more steps.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 13, 2023, 06:13:14 PM
https://www.iconvehicledynamics.com/accessory/17706/icon%2Daccessories%2D20%2Dup%2Djt%2D15%2Drear%2D25%2Dvs%2Dpb%2Dcdev%2Dpair/
Tate?
I may have missed something
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:13:28 PM
Later I got after installing the Misch seat extenders for the driver's seat. That Jeep seat is way too close to the steering wheel and anyone who is six feet tall or better is just smashed in there. Misch off-road makes steel brackets that bolt to the Jeep floor pan which extends the aft travel of the seat 6". In addition to that, the device slightly raises and tilts the seat aft. I noticed better forward visibility right away.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:14:51 PM
Just thought but does Tate’s new icon company do shocks that are replicas of the falcon shock. Better lookThey are good, but only for 2.5" lift. They have nothing for the 3.5" lift, and Clayton told me their lift was really 4".
https://www.iconvehicledynamics.com/accessory/17706/icon%2Daccessories%2D20%2Dup%2Djt%2D15%2Drear%2D25%2Dvs%2Dpb%2Dcdev%2Dpair/
Tate?
I may have missed something
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Yes, Icon are good, but, no, they do not fit.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:16:09 PM
Call it 12.5" from the dash to the front of the seat cushion
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:18:17 PM
Then I prepped the Misch adapters and taped the carriage bolts to the extenders:
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:18:42 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:21:22 PM
Measuring the seat showed that placing it all the way forward was nearly where it had been all the way back. The new aft position offers 18.5" clearance, a full 6" more room for your knobby knees..
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:22:51 PM
Shown with door open and closed
Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 06:25:41 PM
All in all, this is a terrific modification. It really gets to the spirit of customizing the Jeep to fit you and make it your comfortable go-anywhere vehicle. I am liking it more all the time.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 13, 2023, 06:43:40 PM
What about gun mounts for this rig?
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 13, 2023, 08:57:58 PM
Ah the dogs don’t need floor space anyway!!Pistol, but long gun mounts in that camper I never used but is lookin' like I'm gonna!
What about gun mounts for this rig?
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Tate was talking about a second iteration of gear break-in for towing. Guess what I'm going to use to tow?
The dog/rear seat thing works out like this: With the long seat folded it takes up so much room there is very little room for the dog to do anything but stand. I'll add 18" of space by removing it.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 15, 2023, 11:22:03 AM
I will use the following table to try to track incremental changes I am making
5,520 Starting weight inc me
5,260 Vehicle only
-3 Removal of winch plates from the bumper, est.
+59 Badland 12k winch
-50 Removal of stock rock sliders
+60 Electric running boards
+0 Ring and pinion swap
- 3 Removal of rear under-seat bin
-1 Air tube sound chamber removal
5,330 + 8 Seat track extenders est. weight
Ordered the Mopar trailer brake controller.
Post by: Flyin6 on January 16, 2023, 06:54:33 PM
On that count, I have inbound tracking on all of the Clayton off-road suspension stuff. It shows arrival Wednesday or Thursday. I have to pick up the pace on this minor garage remodel.
Post by: EL TATE on January 18, 2023, 11:08:33 AM
Just thought but does Tate’s new icon company do shocks that are replicas of the falcon shock. Better lookThey are good, but only for 2.5" lift. They have nothing for the 3.5" lift, and Clayton told me their lift was really 4".
https://www.iconvehicledynamics.com/accessory/17706/icon%2Daccessories%2D20%2Dup%2Djt%2D15%2Drear%2D25%2Dvs%2Dpb%2Dcdev%2Dpair/
Tate?
I may have missed something
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Yes, Icon are good, but, no, they do not fit.
concurred
Post by: Flyin6 on January 18, 2023, 07:18:01 PM
Tate was correct. The motor was laboring with the 4.56 gears and never or seldom saw the 8th gear and locked converter and it usually returned 16.14. But this tank which covered 256 miles returned an average of 17.53 mpg. That's a solid almost 1.5 mpg increase.
The gear change made sense. Soon now after I change the fluid I will do some acceleration checks, but for now, I am still keeping the speed down to no more than 65mph. That is actually about how I drove it before!
Parts are trickling in. I am in receipt of the Adams driveshaft so far.
Post by: EL TATE on January 19, 2023, 09:55:47 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on January 19, 2023, 07:02:24 PM
That would be a complete Clayton Off Road Overlanding suspension system. Essentially nothing stock will remain after the installation. The big box contains some wild-looking Falcon 3.3 adjustable shocks and rounding it all out is the new Adams 1350 Double Cardan driveshaft that will allow the front to droop to the max, far more than stock or AEV.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 02, 2023, 10:22:07 PM
I've been doing a minor garage makeover since it's getting old and cluttered in there, and I'm now looking at a whole new host of modifications on this Jeep.
In the meantime I am busy stacking up the boxes
Just added this to the growing pile:
Post by: Flyin6 on February 02, 2023, 10:23:18 PM
Post by: JR on February 04, 2023, 03:24:17 AM
Same on my Tahoe. Better sound, muffler is 1/3 the size.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 04, 2023, 10:57:10 AM
Loosing weight is HP, long as not added back on elsewhere.Yea, as I outlined way back near the beginning of the thread, I plan to agressively lose weight all over the Jeep. This was easy and allows me to hear where the engine is in the RPM band...Hard to hear now.
Same on my Tahoe. Better sound, muffler is 1/3 the size.
Other things:
Remove 70% of the rear seat.
Switch to a lithium Ion primary battery
Aluminum rear bumper
Possibly aluminum stubby front bumper
and...I've lost over 10 pounds the past two weeks!
On the negative side:
I think the clayton suspension I will be adding shortly weighs more than the stock pieces
Post by: Bob Smith on February 04, 2023, 01:55:04 PM
“On the negative side:
I think the clayton suspension I will be adding shortly weighs more than the stock pieces”
Yes but it will allow much more movement before something breaks
Post by: JR on February 04, 2023, 05:53:17 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 04, 2023, 08:20:37 PM
Lithium Ion and poly go poof. Lithium Lifo do not.
Lithium Ion and poly go poof. Lithium Lifo do not.It's made of the safe chemistry structure
Post by: Flyin6 on February 11, 2023, 10:14:41 PM
There was the normal metallic "Scheen" from the gears wearing in, but nothing surprising.
I used Lucas 85W-140 for the refill. I also installed one of Yukon's thick ductile iron differential covers. I reused the stock gasket which is a multi-use rubber embossed steel core type. Randy's supplied allen headed hardware which I torqued into place. I understand the Yukon covers allow more fluid to be added than is normal for a factory configuration.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 11, 2023, 10:17:03 PM
It is positioned EXACTLY beneath a close-fitting rear sway bar. TO properly install, you really need to pull the rear sway bar as I ended up doing. Otherwise, it's a crap shoot whether or not you can even get the plug started into its threads.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 13, 2023, 05:33:23 PM
Here is that MBRP exhaust ai spoke about a few posts back.
It's the cheapo, aluminized system. I decided this was plenty good enough and didn't want to bolt on anything expensive in case I later opt for a hemi conversion.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 13, 2023, 05:35:07 PM
The stock system comes off easily in about 5 minutes.
Since I will never reuse it, I sawed it in half above the rear axle to make removal super easy.
Here's the old/heavy system.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 13, 2023, 05:37:01 PM
Here it is going back on starting at the front.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 13, 2023, 05:46:11 PM
Another positive about this system is how it tucks up well inside the frame. The factory system hangs much lower and below the frame rails. This MBRP is way better than the earlier setup
Post by: Flyin6 on February 13, 2023, 05:53:29 PM
It's simple, cost-effective, easy to install and it makes for a pretty quiet mellow tone. I'm happy!
Post by: Atkinsmatt on February 13, 2023, 06:01:42 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 13, 2023, 06:32:57 PM
Looks good too.Thanks, and I agree.
The last tank of gas was much different only scoring 14.6 mpg. I am trying different driving styles so I can establish planning numbers. This new exhaust should put me to the high 30's mpg, but if it doesn't, well, I'll just continue to test. Currently, I changed up the highway driving to a 75mph cruise. The trip computer is showing 15.7 at the moment.
Post by: JR on February 13, 2023, 07:57:54 PM
Cool you can keep the spare down there too. They don't fall off and need to get "bought back".
Post by: Flyin6 on February 14, 2023, 09:50:38 AM
Loved how my MBRP went in also. They make nice stuff.I HOPE it doesn't fall off!
Cool you can keep the spare down there too. They don't fall off and need to get "bought back".
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 06:41:25 PM
To refresh your memories, I have selected the Clayton 3.5" overland suspension system that replaces just about everything that flexes and I will be running the Falcon series 3.3 adjustable shocks.
Oh, the tailgate got its identifying decal. Found that one while looking for tax documents yesterday. It was still good, so today, it is proudly displayed.
I started by measuring the height from the top of the aluminum wheel to the bottom of the fender lip and from the ground to the fender lip. I can gage overall height changes as well as changes in clearance before and after.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 06:44:26 PM
For the record, I am starting out with the Falcon rear shocks set to firm, position 4 on the big selector, and to the mildest setting within that range on the small micro adjustment inner knob.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 06:47:33 PM
The bump stops will work with these new extensions for the smash pad. Just look at how well this stuff is built!
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 06:51:22 PM
Next, I set the control arms to the specified length which Clayton provides. I used a 1/2" bolt in the bushings to make sure either side was identical lengths.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 06:53:27 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 06:55:49 PM
Here is a comparo between the stockers and the Clayton pieces which are longer
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 06:58:37 PM
At this point with everything really hanging, I removed the factory-stretched brake lines and installed the new and longer Clayton lines.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 07:02:33 PM
Post by: JR on February 23, 2023, 07:05:04 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 07:05:16 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 23, 2023, 07:08:31 PM
Nice looking stuff. Bet the "stock" parts will fetch a good price from someone with a really stock J.I won't charge much, but I'll bet you're right!
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2023, 07:27:08 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2023, 07:28:45 PM
There is a warning that accompanies the shocks which states the user MUST install longer brake lines because these shocks allow the axle to droop out further than it did in the past
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2023, 07:32:31 PM
Ya
So, I removed them and turned them both around so they would actually work when things got tight in there.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2023, 07:34:43 PM
Ouch
I snapped a shot of the axle build tag that had been covered by the AEV bump stop
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2023, 07:36:09 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2023, 07:39:23 PM
I fitted either end to full depth and, by golly, it seemed to come out to be about the correct direction. I know the sway bar ends should be just a litle up from parallel to the ground, and that is about where the bar rests.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2023, 07:44:11 PM
I cannot comment on that just yet, but I can say the attention to detail given to this bar as illustrated in the photos is striking! No one else puts a bend in the bar to clear the stock location spare tire, and in fact, many people find it impossible to fit a 37" spare against a stock-like straight bar. This one is both bent and twisted to clear everything and work in its arc of travel without touching anything. Well done Clayton!
Post by: stlaser on February 24, 2023, 10:38:55 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 25, 2023, 07:01:25 PM
I am not so good with that strange-looking joint on that odd-looking driveshaft. I am thinking a standard one-piece double-cardan shaft with 1350 joints would be better.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 25, 2023, 07:02:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 25, 2023, 07:04:45 PM
It shows up as a shiny spot in some photos.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 25, 2023, 07:07:52 PM
I checked it against my pre-install measurements and I am showing 5/8" to 1.24" additional height clearance. Those are preliminary measurements that will be retaken once I finish the front and test drive it.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 25, 2023, 07:08:53 PM
Post by: JR on February 26, 2023, 01:57:48 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 10:06:35 AM
Dang, about as much work as a regular ifs lift.Having done both several times, this one is not difficult, but it does take some work. If I had that lift I wanted...The one that turned into a 2.02-carat diamond...that one. Well, if I had that lift the job would be infinitely easier.
It's like a good core workout as one constantly is lying down on the creeper, then balancing while getting back up. In the old lemons into lemonade adage, I just look at it as some abdominal conditioning. And wouldn't you know it, just before I get busy doing hard work farmside.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:20:15 PM
All jacked up and ready to start shedding parts:
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:23:05 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:25:49 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:26:53 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:29:03 PM
I greased all the areas where the control arm bushings will seat.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:32:58 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:33:46 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:35:53 PM
On the front, these Falcon shocks do not just slide into place. Because of the big precharge chamber. on the driver's side one needs to cut a hole into the inner fender liner. They supply a template to do that
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 06:37:52 PM
Post by: stlaser on February 26, 2023, 07:42:22 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 09:28:25 PM
During the gear swap would have been ideal time to swap the driveshafts.Yep!
And I just figured out that when I jack the thing up and allow the rear suspension to droop, it falls so far now that the springs come out of the buckets that hold them. Found out also, that Teraflex makes a kit to positively retain the rear spring in the bucket. Would have been nice to have that here now as well
What's that they say about hind sight???
Post by: stlaser on February 26, 2023, 09:33:27 PM
During the gear swap would have been ideal time to swap the driveshafts.Yep!
And I just figured out that when I jack the thing up and allow the rear suspension to droop, it falls so far now that the springs come out of the buckets that hold them. Found out also, that Teraflex makes a kit to positively retain the rear spring in the bucket. Would have been nice to have that here now as well
What's that they say about hind sight???
Limit straps….
Post by: Nate on February 26, 2023, 09:38:03 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 09:52:17 PM
Are you sure a set sidnt come in the kit somewhere?No, and never heard of any such thing from them.
We have a new member, whom I just met over on a Gladiator forum. He suggested the Teraflex stuff that I'm going to take a look at. He also had some interesting ideas about the rear sway bar.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 26, 2023, 09:53:07 PM
Is that what you are using on your JK?During the gear swap would have been ideal time to swap the driveshafts.Yep!
And I just figured out that when I jack the thing up and allow the rear suspension to droop, it falls so far now that the springs come out of the buckets that hold them. Found out also, that Teraflex makes a kit to positively retain the rear spring in the bucket. Would have been nice to have that here now as well
What's that they say about hind sight???
Limit straps….
Post by: stlaser on February 26, 2023, 10:11:25 PM
Is that what you are using on your JK?During the gear swap would have been ideal time to swap the driveshafts.Yep!
And I just figured out that when I jack the thing up and allow the rear suspension to droop, it falls so far now that the springs come out of the buckets that hold them. Found out also, that Teraflex makes a kit to positively retain the rear spring in the bucket. Would have been nice to have that here now as well
What's that they say about hind sight???
Limit straps….
Sold the JKU about a year ago. Some brewery in Florida bought it, but yes I used limit straps on it and do often to keep suspensions from destroying parts on full droop.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 28, 2023, 07:37:40 PM
Today the goal was to complete the installation of the front suspension.
That started where I left off, installing the remaining front shock. Same-same as before, you need to modify the inner wheel well liner to fit the gas chamber of the shock. Falcon includes templates for the various models. Apparently, the Ruby fender/liners differ from other versions as evidenced by the multiple cutout templates available to the installer.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 28, 2023, 07:39:52 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 28, 2023, 07:41:09 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on February 28, 2023, 07:43:58 PM
To measure correctly, I mounted the end links onto their respective mounts, then marked the threaded rod, then cut that to length.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 28, 2023, 07:47:35 PM
This guy never seems far away.
His signature pose is when he crosses his front legs. I've never seen a dog do that naturally...
Post by: Flyin6 on February 28, 2023, 07:50:43 PM
With the end links installed, I went about tightening all the bolts and nuts everywhere and just like that I was done installing the Clayton suspension system, but, not done with the front end.
Post by: Flyin6 on February 28, 2023, 07:53:37 PM
Oh and of course, I added the decals to increase horsepower, reduce weight, and lower my tax rate!
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:27:44 PM
First I removed the numerous torx #50 bolts from the transfer case flange. I used a bunch of extensions and a 3/8" impact. That worked for all but one stubborn bolt.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:29:37 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:30:28 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:33:01 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:34:47 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:36:40 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:37:43 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:40:16 PM
After removing the nut I taped it lightly with the brass drift and out it came.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:43:26 PM
Note: The impact did not achieve the full 166.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:46:33 PM
Then just like that the driveshaft installation was complete.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:50:20 PM
After filling with Lucas 85-140 I tossed on the wheels. I rotated all the tires during the install and even gave the whole vehicle a coat of that hydro ceramic wax stuff.
Sorry, forgot to snap the installed cover but it shows in the Hollywood shots coming up next.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:51:55 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:57:51 PM
Well, it's a gonner. Will be saying bye-bye pretty soon.
Almost feel guilty wearing the AEV badging
Removed: AEV 4.56 gears
AEV Wheels
AEV 2.5" lift kit
AEV Bilstein 5100 shocks
Still have the cool stripes, badging, that front bumper thing, a painted dash, painted interior panels, and AEV instrument cluster decals.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:58:25 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 03:59:16 PM
Post by: JR on March 01, 2023, 06:38:39 PM
Post by: Atkinsmatt on March 01, 2023, 07:27:59 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 07:32:47 PM
Lots of work but it looks great.Tomorrow or the next day I'll find out how it rides
Alignment first
Post by: JR on March 01, 2023, 08:35:00 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2023, 08:38:04 PM
Bet you drove it right away, but still have to feel it out some.I didn't
Finished it then pulled it outside without first bleeding the brakes. Waited for the kid to come home to help with that. Was 5ish by then and I was tired. Raining tomorrow, so maybe not then :-(
Post by: Bob Smith on March 01, 2023, 08:48:46 PM
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 01, 2023, 10:16:00 PM
Looks good better find some mall mulch beds to take some photos in. Around here you could use a snow bank
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 09:54:37 AM
Now the new Ram...That one, like your sweet 3500, is going to be a princess.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 09:55:02 AM
You going to let a bit of rain stop you? If it isn’t raining, give it a few minutes.It cleared...Off to the alignment shop we go!
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 02:14:33 PM
Next, I will likely be carting a big hairy/messy dog, and he needs some space.
Then there's the weight savings. After removing those seats, I'm going to say before weighing them I just knocked off from 70-100 pounds. Man, they were heavy! Remember I have about as much horsepower as your lawn mower, so weight savings = horsepower.
Before I started:
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 02:15:19 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 02:15:55 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 02:16:36 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 02:17:46 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 02:18:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 02, 2023, 02:20:23 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:12:25 PM
I weighed stuff on a new electronic scale I just picked up.
Jack 8.7 It remains
rear seat small 35.2
Rear seat lg 54.1
small kit for top 12 oz
Seat bolts 1.0
Floor mats 4.1
Total weight savings = 95.2 lbs
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:13:20 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:14:44 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:16:16 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:17:57 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:19:07 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:21:12 PM
Next, I built up the two driver's side mounts from angle aluminum, riveting successive pieces together.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:23:28 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:24:35 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:26:44 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 04:32:48 PM
The 4 x 4, 1/2" thick Baltic birch panel I selected was a bit too short. So after a bunch of measuring and fitting, I added a short section to the side to bring it out to full size.
With that done, I called it a day. Time to get ready for date night with a really pretty girl!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 04, 2023, 05:13:18 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 04, 2023, 08:51:36 PM
Did the Duramax sell?Not yet
Post by: Flyin6 on March 05, 2023, 04:52:11 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 05, 2023, 04:53:11 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 05, 2023, 04:55:32 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 05, 2023, 04:56:46 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 05, 2023, 04:58:16 PM
Post by: JR on March 05, 2023, 05:38:28 PM
That storage will come in handy. What about a jump seat back there just in case?
Post by: Flyin6 on March 05, 2023, 08:06:19 PM
Back at it again, great. I even got notified of the new post!So, you're saying tap talk is now working for you?
That storage will come in handy. What about a jump seat back there just in case?
We made some changes to help improve TT functionality already.
Post by: JR on March 05, 2023, 08:09:35 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 05, 2023, 10:23:16 PM
TT seems to be linking me up OK, was referring to regular site.Changes were made today. I need more input to see if we can home in on where the problem may be. I think it's in security. You have to run it at a higher level because of all the spam attacks these days, like over a thousand a day just here!
Post by: cj7ox on March 06, 2023, 11:37:06 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 06, 2023, 01:35:18 PM
So, you saved 95lbs by removing stuff. How much does all the wood and aluminum you're installing weigh? :popcorn:I haven't weighed it all yet, but I think it is going to come in-between 5 to 10 lbs.
Edit after finishing the project: Wow was I wrong...
Post by: Flyin6 on March 06, 2023, 05:34:21 PM
Out of the glue clamping, the parts looked good
Post by: Flyin6 on March 06, 2023, 05:35:49 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 06, 2023, 05:37:01 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 06, 2023, 05:39:10 PM
And the cause for all this is just laying around wondering why all the fuss.
Post by: JR on March 06, 2023, 06:14:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 06, 2023, 09:37:15 PM
Will you carpet it for the dogs?No...Dirt magnet.
When I carry dogs, I will install one of those dog hammock/isolation barrier things then toss a dog bed on top of that
Post by: Flyin6 on March 07, 2023, 05:00:41 PM
That hardware was 1.4 for t tie-downs X 4 = 5.6
The dynamat was right at 6 lbs.
so the total weight for the cargo floor and sound deadening is 31.2 lbs
so I actually removed 63.8 lbs. from the truck. Not what I had hoped for, but I'll take it.
The truth will come in at the scales. I can now weigh it to see where it sits as a shell, mission-ready W/O cargo.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 07, 2023, 05:02:24 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 07, 2023, 05:03:32 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 07, 2023, 05:04:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 07, 2023, 05:06:00 PM
Poor guy looks like I am taking him to the vet. He does not like going there!
Post by: JR on March 08, 2023, 01:02:32 AM
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 08, 2023, 07:35:58 AM
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Post by: oklawall on March 08, 2023, 09:20:32 AM
Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 09:24:11 AM
He just needs something to lay on.Yes...
I used these isolation carriers in the past, so one of those plus a dog bed on top.
Dogs want to stand up and look around a lot. But I have found that they can fall over easily and that could lead to injuries. I like them to lay down and just poke their heads out when going through the Micky-D's drive-through when I get quoffee. Funny but all the curvy roads around here tend to make them sick, so they end up laying down anyway!
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 09:24:52 AM
One of our two if you even start walking in the direction of my truck he runs over and sits by the door so he can go for a rideSame-same here...With all three!
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:38:11 PM
This JT is rated to tow up to and over (in some cases) 7,000 lbs. That's double what the JL or JLU can tow, so this thing is a contender!
Well, sort of...If it only had some power...
The box is full of stuff. It's a straight-up install if you are factory equipped to tow. If not, I'd just avoid this mod. If you weren't factory equipped you are going to be running wires all the way to the back end and cutting into the factory harness.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:45:44 PM
It just snaps out so with gentle prying with the nylon prybars I had it out in 10 seconds.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:48:29 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:50:16 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:51:28 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:53:23 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:54:49 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 04:58:23 PM
So pretty much by experimentation and a bunch of test fitting I finally had my new switch mounted.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 05:00:17 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 05:01:20 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 05:02:45 PM
You will be working in a difficult-to-see area that is pretty crowded.
The next job is mounting the new controller.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 05:06:17 PM
But mounting that module is very difficult.
It mounts in the area I circled.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 05:07:53 PM
Here is mine mounted. The large arrow points to the center of mass of the module and the small arrow indicate the single stud I was able to put a not onto.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 05:09:37 PM
Now when I mash the brakes, my window washer activates and the radio tunes to my favorite country station where Brooks and Dunn are always singing, "My Maria."...Really!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 08, 2023, 08:37:58 PM
And you now have two lol
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 08, 2023, 08:54:22 PM
To be fair it is a Mopar. Lots of them guys can only read picture books anyway. They are just playing to their user base.Well, from what I can see so far, the thing is very well-built. And the interior puts the GM's I was looking at to shame.
And you now have two lol
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Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 08, 2023, 11:49:04 PM
To be fair it is a Mopar. Lots of them guys can only read picture books anyway. They are just playing to their user base.Well, from what I can see so far, the thing is very well-built. And the interior puts the GM's I was looking at to shame.
And you now have two lol
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now your tellin jokes!! No one will buy a fiat was put together better then an gm or ford vehicle.
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 09, 2023, 08:51:46 AM
I would disagree my friend.To be fair it is a Mopar. Lots of them guys can only read picture books anyway. They are just playing to their user base.Well, from what I can see so far, the thing is very well-built. And the interior puts the GM's I was looking at to shame.
And you now have two lol
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No one will buy a fiat was put together better then an gm or ford vehicle.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Car manufacturers ebb and flow. They will rise, riding a wave of growing successes, most stemming from quality improvements. Then once they get those sales numbers up, they oftentimes fail to maintain quality, or another manufacturer ups their hand. It's all cyclical. Everyone currently has a good product.
The Italians are the leaders in interior design followed by the Germans. We Americans are far, far behind. Look at the Ram/Chrysler product after Fiat purchased them. The interiors improved greatly. Now you get stitching in the dash, several different types of leather in your seat, good padding and gone are the GM and Ford great expanses of plastic.
I realize we were discussing a jeep, but things in my Ram look better than in the AT4 I had it parked beside. In the end, for me, the decision came down to one of the two of those trucks. But with the AT4 coming at almost $14,000 more for the same truck, it was not a hard decision.
The Cummins powerplant is legendary. The Chrysler transmissions, once wrought with issues have come around and now carry very long warranties.
No sir, I disagree, GM is not what many of us think it is. But more to the point, not one of the big three has an offering that really trails the others. They all seem to be good trucks.
The 6-cyl Ram does seem to have better fuel economy numbers than the rest. The Duramax sadly seems to be way off from what it was. I routinely get 17-18 mpg from my deleted D-max, but I hear the new 3500s are more like 12-13 mpg. I am currently getting in the 19's. Hard to argue that and with all the grunt this truck offers.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:42:33 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:45:19 PM
I did not complete step one, and therefore had to repeat steps 2-3-4-5.
The first thing you add is the foam backing strips that fit into the recesses in your roof panels. It makes for a flatter surface to later apply the final thick headliner panel on top of.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:46:52 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:49:06 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:50:32 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:51:48 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:53:52 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 02:55:05 PM
Post by: JR on March 11, 2023, 04:07:59 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 11, 2023, 04:32:00 PM
Looks good, should quiet it down nice.So, yes it did!
I took it for a test ride and I have to say I am surprised by the result of this addition. The Jeep is for sure quieter than it was before. Gone is the "Tinny" sound the exhaust note seemed to resonate in the cabin. It now sounds like a respectful swarm of bumble-bees as it should. Yes, I do like how this turned out.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 17, 2023, 03:00:46 PM
The bumper is gonna go bye-bye
This new one saves around 50 lbs!
Post by: JR on March 19, 2023, 04:55:48 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 19, 2023, 08:48:30 AM
But is it strong enough for mall mulch??That remains to be seen...Probably ought to add a rear bumper winch before attempting something like that ;-)
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 19, 2023, 09:46:27 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 19, 2023, 06:09:12 PM
That begs the question. Would you have been better off buying the non AEV and doing what youre doing?Without a question, YES.
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But I started with an AEV just thinking it was fine as is and I'd use it once in awhile.
When I took it off roading the first time I was hooked again, and I could see stuff I didn't like.
I think I would have been $15K ahead if I would have just started with a stocker.
But then again, this one had been sitting at AEV for a good 6 months and then there was another few months to get the ordered unit from Chrysler. In that time Jeep had a bunch of price increases, so I actually purchased the AEV for a lot less than I could have that day starting all over.
I'll sell some of the stuff, I am doing that now, and this AEV stuff fetches a lot of $$$
Example: The stubby bumper cost me $670 delivered. I can sell the AEV RX bumper for $1200...already have a fella looking. The lights retail for nearly a grand. I purchased the amber replacement lights last night for $150. I'll sell the AEV units for $500-$600, hopefully, and on and on.
So yes, I would have been better off, but I would still have had to spray the whole interior, spray the grill, and other cool things which I like that make it look better. But it would have just been a Rubicon, whereas I do own a serial-numbered and registered JT-370 AEV truck. It will always fetch more than a stocker.
Bottom line, I suppose is I like it, I enjoy doing the mods, I can afford it, and it makes me happy.
Post by: JR on March 19, 2023, 06:17:59 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 06:06:08 PM
I did weigh everything that came off that Jeep, so now I finally know just how much weight it was heaving around up front.
But first, I finished my "I love me" ceiling. THere are some, but not all of the unit patches of outfits I served in up there.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 06:07:50 PM
A 10-pound savings just by switching lights...crazy
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 06:10:22 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 06:12:24 PM
The clevis mounts were 11.72
and the plastic bezels came out at 1-pound
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 06:14:13 PM
and the hoop trim pieces weighed 2.26
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 06:16:11 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 06:20:56 PM
So the AEV RX modular light weight bumper is not lightweight at all unless you are considering a loaded dump truck to compare it to.
The bumper without a winch or lights weighs 102.42 lbs
With the winch plate, it weighs 121.84
Add their bowling ball lights and you have 136.12 pounds upfront.
Now let me see if I can whittle that number down some with this new bumper...
Post by: JR on March 20, 2023, 07:41:52 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 08:54:15 PM
Your stopping there?No, tomorrow I'll start installing the new stubby bumper, or a railroad cross tie, whichever I think may be lighter ;-)
Post by: JR on March 20, 2023, 08:59:29 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2023, 09:40:14 PM
If you can lift a RR tie, bolt it on!They come with winches, right? ;-)
Or is that, "wenches?"
(Oh no!)
Post by: JR on March 20, 2023, 09:42:43 PM
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 20, 2023, 10:00:42 PM
It’s a strange emotional attachment that I can’t explain logically.
CM sir. You are on a roll.
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Post by: JR on March 21, 2023, 01:15:56 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 09:46:23 AM
Besides the $$$ in, replacement is crazy. Didn't you just get a new Sub?No new Suburban, not sure where you're getting that from.
I recently purchased a new Ram 3500 diesel 4X4
Still have the old D-max (Hasn't sold yet)
I have the 02 Suburban which I rather fancy keeping
and I have the Gladiator which is a good platform for a V8 transplant some years from now.
Other vehicles, She drives a 2022 Cadillac XT6 AWD, the pre-ranger drives a BMW 335I, and I still have the Kawasaki KLR-650...Oh and the tractor and SVL-97...and a mower, and a...
No new Suburban
Post by: JR on March 21, 2023, 11:11:08 AM
Still trying to see you driving a Ram, but you did have the old 50k Dodge at one time.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 04:50:48 PM
I was reffering to TRN. You kept the bikes, sool.In the past I had several W150's, all square fender, and a Ramcharger with a built 360. I have had other Mopar products. I favor them over Ford with Chevy being my favorite brand.
Still trying to see you driving a Ram, but you did have the old 50k Dodge at one time.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 04:51:37 PM
Here's the bumper stuff:
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 04:54:33 PM
I'd classify it as a medium quality, say a solid 6-7 that is priced right and accomplished the primary goals I set out to achieve.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 04:57:00 PM
Speaking of weight, the first thing to add is the winch plate which comes in at 22.1 lbs
It went in very easily with only two bolts initially. That's where you permanently install the winch which was a five-minute job for me.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 04:58:39 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 05:00:43 PM
That is 1" thick steel!
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 05:02:57 PM
It weighed a paltry 15.91lbs
Oh, the fog light mounts are only 2.27 for the pair.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 21, 2023, 05:03:49 PM
Besides the $$$ in, replacement is crazy. Didn't you just get a new Sub?Yes, but the Yukon XL Denali. We don’t want to talk about what those are going for nowadays.
Here’s a random thought. Don’t has a penchant for taking brand new vehicles and modifying them in a very thoughtful and appealing way.
If he had a contract with a local dealer to modify factory new vehicles and put them back on the dealer lot for sale there might be some money in that. Kids willing to finance all their mods in with the new truck are in plentiful supply.
I could see it now. Instead of an AEV it would the RMTW Edition….it could work.
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 05:07:32 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 05:08:56 PM
Tell you what, my friend, you finance it and I'll get it going...gotta do something with my spare time.Besides the $$$ in, replacement is crazy. Didn't you just get a new Sub?Yes, but the Yukon XL Denali. We don’t want to talk about what those are going for nowadays.
Here’s a random thought. Don’t has a penchant for taking brand new vehicles and modifying them in a very thoughtful and appealing way.
If he had a contract with a local dealer to modify factory new vehicles and put them back on the dealer lot for sale there might be some money in that. Kids willing to finance all their mods in with the new truck are in plentiful supply.
I could see it now. Instead of an AEV it would the RMTW Edition….it could work.
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 05:10:39 PM
I am glad I got it done, but when that last nut came up to torque, I was ready to walk away. I'll get the lights tomorrow!
Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 05:14:39 PM
I was shooting for 50-pound weight savings.
The bumper and lights I removed weighed in at 136 and change.
The new Arcus bumper and lights (when I install them) weigh a total of 69.9 lbs.
I am very satisfied to have just shed over 66 pounds from the front end of the Jeep.
Additionally, I really opened up those front tires to the terrain. No bumper to get in the way any longer. This is about what a Jeep needs for what I intend to do with it.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 21, 2023, 05:17:38 PM
So now for the numbers.Im going to internet jail for this one….
I was shooting for 50-pound weight savings.
The bumper and lights I removed weighed in at 136 and change.
The new Arcus bumper and lights (when I install them) weigh a total of 69.9 lbs.
I am very satisfied to have just shed over 66 pounds from the front end of the Jeep.
Additionally, I really opened up those front tires to the terrain. No bumper to get in the way any longer. This is about what a Jeep needs for what I intend to do with it.
So 70lbs….just about the weight of a supercharger kit……
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 21, 2023, 05:28:31 PM
You have a free pass, remember? Well, you just used it! ;-)So now for the numbers.Im going to internet jail for this one….
I was shooting for 50-pound weight savings.
The bumper and lights I removed weighed in at 136 and change.
The new Arcus bumper and lights (when I install them) weigh a total of 69.9 lbs.
I am very satisfied to have just shed over 66 pounds from the front end of the Jeep.
Additionally, I really opened up those front tires to the terrain. No bumper to get in the way any longer. This is about what a Jeep needs for what I intend to do with it.
So 70lbs….just about the weight of a supercharger kit……
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Also, you may recall that my generation of Jeep (Post mid-year 2021) has a new computer system and no superchargers or anything else is available.
Post by: dave945 on March 21, 2023, 06:52:38 PM
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Post by: JR on March 21, 2023, 07:28:00 PM
Preference, but I kinda like the tires protected with a bumper some.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 22, 2023, 07:28:48 PM
It was so simple, almost a plug-and-play. I could not believe it, but the AEV harness plugged directly into the new lights. No cutting or splicing of wires required.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 22, 2023, 07:30:14 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 22, 2023, 07:31:36 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 22, 2023, 07:36:26 PM
Post by: JR on March 22, 2023, 10:32:44 PM
When I was into HP off road driving in my youth, I preferred night driving as you concentrated on what you could see, and the shadows showed holes and ruts better.
Post by: oklawall on March 23, 2023, 07:26:52 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 23, 2023, 09:39:05 AM
Did the dogs approve? LOLYa, I think so...The big one was all up under my feet while I worked on that bumper... ;-)
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:01:49 PM
Ever heard of Bullit point phone and device mounts?
Way over the top in quality and performance.
Here's mine:
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:04:45 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:05:46 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:08:40 PM
I picked a GoPro camera base and an arm to hold my cell phone.
Not sure if you can opt for a maple leaf if you live near Sam.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:11:02 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:13:27 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:14:15 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:15:41 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:17:07 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:19:25 PM
Post by: JR on March 27, 2023, 05:23:34 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 27, 2023, 05:33:57 PM
The ducks look happy.Never asked, but I think I can accept your assessment! ;-)
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 28, 2023, 04:15:33 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230328/00c7c5e2f8f33dd1fe655124bbf7d654.jpg)
Had mine since truck was new, switched the phone mount out recently to the mag base and wireless charge option.
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Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 28, 2023, 08:05:19 PM
You will like it. Well planned design. Ok customer service, Iv had better elsewhere.
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Post by: Flyin6 on March 29, 2023, 10:33:28 AM
Mag charging phone base...Was thinking about that.
Currently have a quad-lock cover bc of bike requirements
But
Wife
Just
suddenly
announced
she hates me ridin' cause another
person she knows was just killed on one
Suggested something about my never riding again
Now, I spent all those "Risk-taker" dollars with her already
She had to endure all those years I was in Afghanistan and Iraq. So I can't do risky things without her pulling the flag and sometimes tossing it.
So maybe my love of riding my fav KLR are coming to a close
In which case the ONLY bright spot other than freeing up $7K-$8K is that I can change my phone case and use a mag charger again...
Post by: Flyin6 on March 29, 2023, 10:51:38 AM
I was researching lithium batteries and posting suggestions on the Jeep gladiator forum. Guys there say no-go to the only battery being a Lithium. They can't stand up to long high amp pulls like a lead acid of AGM.
That generated an interesting conversation.
Then a gentleman who races Porches suggested the Braille battery. OK, fine, I sent them an email. They claim they have a battery, lithium-based, but different somehow that can take sustained winching and produces like 1000 CCA and it weighs under 10 pounds. It's Lithium, of course.
So we are now discussing possibly putting one in the Gladiator. I think the factory battery which actually produces around 1000CCA and is an AGM weighs in around 50 or more pounds.
And I did not know this, but Jeep actually buries a secondary battery below the primary one. They have that hated start-stop system and run the aux battery to maintain constant voltage for the sensitive electronics while doing all these engine starts.
So my initial plan is to remove the aux battery and disable the ESS system. That will also save me another 10 pounds. Replacing the main with their fancy Li unit would yield a significant weight saving AGAIN!
Let's see how the conversation turns out and see if I can test one of these cool new Braille products.
Post by: JR on March 29, 2023, 11:13:51 AM
They can give incredible amps with no issues and are just getting better.
Stay away from polymer based is all (fire issue too) and the newer Lifo based are rated for at least 3000 full cycles. Thats a full discharge, which we rarely do.
Post by: Flyin6 on March 29, 2023, 06:02:28 PM
Lithium has come a long way from 10 years ago. All these power units, EV cars, military and RC stuff has made lithium main stream.Looking at these folks to see if we can make some magic...
They can give incredible amps with no issues and are just getting better.
Stay away from polymer based is all (fire issue too) and the newer Lifo based are rated for at least 3000 full cycles. Thats a full discharge, which we rarely do.
https://braillebattery.com/
Post by: JR on March 29, 2023, 06:10:35 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on March 29, 2023, 09:56:21 PM
Now if the price would come down a little. I remember when the RC batteries were crazy expensive, now they are in line with the old nimh and nicad round cells.The economic princilal is called, "Economies of scale."
All these higher priced batteries will gradually come down as production ramps up, unless the supply of raw materials is interrupted.
On that, Most of those raw materials come from the DRC. I know a little about that place... The Chinese are moving in there as fast as they can build roads and rail roads. I would say we have lost to them in Africa based on their rapid rate of expansion.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 03:51:25 PM
It (spare battery) becomes unnecessary and just added weight when the ESS system is no longer used. I have the option of turning off the system via a dash-mounted button, and that's what I do now. That means there is some weight that can be cut with no side effect on overall vehicle performance.
Here is the picture of the stock setup:
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 03:53:19 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 03:54:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 03:55:38 PM
Wow, that's a bunch of weight I am carrying around. I am now hoping more and more I can make something happen with the Braille battery folks to cut that number down some.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 03:57:45 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:03:42 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:12:04 PM
Four E10 or 4mm bolts hold the plugs to the fuse board
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:13:27 PM
I secured everything out of the way with masking tape.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:15:40 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:17:44 PM
and five more Oz for the fabric battery covers.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:18:43 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:20:07 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 04:23:00 PM
I started and ran the vehicle and noted no abnormalities nor dash lights illuminated. I'll call this one done for now!
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 01, 2023, 06:17:07 PM
Best $99 you’ll ever spend. Put one on the denali and I love it..
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Post by: Flyin6 on April 01, 2023, 08:00:49 PM
https://www.autostopeliminator.com/collections/jeep/products/2020-jeep-gladiator-autostop-eliminatorGood lead, Tex
Best $99 you’ll ever spend. Put one on the denali and I love it..
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Ordered!
Post by: Sammconn on April 02, 2023, 12:53:43 AM
CM chief! Lookin good.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 02, 2023, 11:14:38 AM
I found one for mamas Equinox. Glad to have that crap gone forever.Thank you, sir!
CM chief! Lookin good.
Post by: JR on April 02, 2023, 01:09:47 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 02, 2023, 10:08:46 PM
Dang, wonder what the dealer would charge for a battery swap. Funny you unplug it when removing the fuse panel, not sure I like that design. I like the plugs to be a stand alone thing.I don't think anyone likes the way that fuse panel fits into those 4 big plugs...
Post by: Flyin6 on April 05, 2023, 04:17:56 PM
The battery I will likely be testing is their high-end F34 unit weighing in at a paltry 20 lbs. If any of you may be interested, contact me because I will be managing traffic and gauging interest for this upcoming test and possible battery sale.
https://braillebattery.com/products/f34-group-34-lithium-starting-power-supply-battery
Post by: JR on April 05, 2023, 04:24:25 PM
Post by: wilsonphil on April 05, 2023, 05:32:30 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 05, 2023, 07:25:15 PM
Post by: JR on April 05, 2023, 08:29:59 PM
Depending on size/cost I may go with 2.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 05, 2023, 09:30:41 PM
Yup, by the way I want a single battery to replace two with great cranking amps.Did you look at that F34 we are talking about? CCA 1950!!!!!!! One of these batteries is around the same output or slightly more than two AGM units. Two AGM's weigh in around 110 lbs vs 20. Another aspect is that the LiPo4 battery can be discharged down to I think Oliver said 1.2 volts and brought back to a full charge, thousands of times! Try that on a lead acid or AGM battery. You'll get 3-4 cycles like that then it's off to the battery store.
Depending on size/cost I may go with 2.
Two of these lithium would simply not be necessary.
Now they also make a line of performance AGM batteries that are top performers and they worked on the weight as well. Their H7 group 48 which I think is the size of the Jeeper bat is a few pounds lighter but boasts a lot more power.
Performance Specs:
Voltage
12 Full Voltage Charge 13.8
Cranking Amps (CA) 1950 Amp Hour (AH) 60
Reverse Capacity (RC) 145 min Life Cycle (50%DOD) 6000+
Post by: JR on April 05, 2023, 11:35:53 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 06, 2023, 11:34:58 AM
I did look at the site, but didn't recall the #s. Think that is what I looked at, but $1200!! CCAs are great.Looks like I am going to be able to help with the pricing.
I now have an agreement with Braille Battery to test and evaluate one of their batteries. As a part of that discussion, I should have a link here where you can place an order and get an immediate discount. I do not know exactly how much that discount will be, and I will post up exact numbers when they come available to me. That is in the works. Click to order and it's sitting in your mailbox in 10 minutes...or something like that! ;-)
Post by: Sammconn on April 06, 2023, 10:39:29 PM
I’m a tad embarrassed to say this.
I ran from engine swap to this summer on one battery.
I totally missed the cable loop on the passenger battery.
Discovered that when I changed my batteries as it seemed weak.
Weak at -30…
Post by: Flyin6 on April 06, 2023, 11:19:40 PM
For all you duramax guys.So are you saying you're in on one of these Braille batteries? ;-)
I’m a tad embarrassed to say this.
I ran from engine swap to this summer on one battery.
I totally missed the cable loop on the passenger battery.
Discovered that when I changed my batteries as it seemed weak.
Weak at -30…
Post by: Sammconn on April 07, 2023, 09:44:09 AM
I’d need to know more about it.
Short answer if they had some sort of -40 useable power I might be.
It was more for JR wanting to drop a battery.
All things being “right” one good battery will surprise you.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 07, 2023, 10:57:28 AM
Honestly I’m scared of a lot of the new tech in the cold.Copy that
I’d need to know more about it.
Short answer if they had some sort of -40 useable power I might be.
It was more for JR wanting to drop a battery.
All things being “right” one good battery will surprise you.
Lithium batteries can lose significant power at -10 and below. That's why they use some of their power to warm themselves. A tesla car when navigating to a charging station will actually warm up the battery pack so it can take a faster charge!
But this technology is evolving rapidly. The chemistry now differs greatly from first/second gen Li batteries. Now they no longer explode. Now they last much longer, and deep cycle. That deep cycle thing was unheard of when the first Model S rolled off the production line. These Braille batteries have moved the bar with respect to massive, long deep pulls like as with winching. They gobble it up and spit it out. Why? Design and chemistry.
What is true today about Lithium batteries will be history in six months. Big money is behind this. A Lithium battery-powered electric airplane? Coming... but not yet. We need lighter batteries that make a lot more power and have deep-deep cycle capability.
I'm tickled to give this Braille F34 a test to see if it does indeed measure up. Clear the hype with a winch up a mountainside somewhere. If it can do that and still power stuff, it will have my vote.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 08, 2023, 04:41:20 PM
Note: I top up when I start to get below 1/2 tank.
Old Armee tactical considerations are hard to shake...
Post by: cj7ox on April 11, 2023, 02:24:33 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 11, 2023, 06:51:25 PM
My big reason for not going lithium, is I don't want to put money in China's pockets. LOLYea, me either
However, how does one work around the choice of so many companies to manufacture in the China?
Post by: cj7ox on April 12, 2023, 09:45:55 AM
Yea, me either
However, how does one work around the choice of so many companies to manufacture in the China?
I research, and if I can find something suitable made in the USA, I go that route. Of course, I've never been that concerned about weight of a battery. LOL!
Post by: Flyin6 on April 12, 2023, 09:40:07 PM
I followed up with Tex's recommendation and ordered the auto stop/start eliminator. It showed up within a week.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 12, 2023, 09:41:04 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 12, 2023, 09:41:52 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 12, 2023, 09:43:23 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 12, 2023, 09:44:10 PM
Keep looking...
Post by: Flyin6 on April 12, 2023, 09:45:56 PM
It worked as advertised.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 12, 2023, 10:24:23 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on April 13, 2023, 07:57:30 PM
Good deal! You can still activate it with the dash button if you like and it remembers the last selected position.It is good right where it is.
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So, today, we went on a 200+ mile trip, 100 up then back to a cool park where we did some hiking. The Jeep scored an impressive (for it) 18.8 MPG. I set the cruise at 65 mph and drove the country roads 45-55. I'm happy with that and no funny business from the installation of the auto stop eliminator.
Post by: Dustoff35 on April 14, 2023, 06:49:34 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 14, 2023, 08:52:34 AM
What cruise speed and engine rpm seems to deliver the best fuel economy?It l does not like to lug around. But push it just a little too hard and it wants to drop down a gear then fuel mileage drops drastically. Really, about 64 mph seems to work for most conditions. If I pushed it to 70 or beyond, I'm guessing it would struggle to get 15 mpg.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:01:53 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:03:35 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:04:44 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:06:31 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:08:36 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:09:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:11:21 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:13:19 PM
Braille did it right! They also sent me one of their 6 amp quick chargers.
Let's unbox that:
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:15:23 PM
When you plug it into the wall, you get a red and a green light
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:17:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 05:18:59 PM
Post by: JR on April 19, 2023, 06:19:30 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 19, 2023, 06:28:34 PM
So does that need to be wired into the jeeps system?No
The Jeep charges the battery for now on
But if I were to leave the thing parked for a week with something left on and the battery discharged, this is a special charger made to bring back a completely dead battery.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:00:38 PM
Not as straight forward as I thought, but very pleased with the result
Starting point:
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:01:42 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:05:41 PM
The F34 Braille Battery has the terminals on the opposite side of the battery from where the H7 Jeep battery places them
But just for grins I slid it down in the proper alignment position and discovered our stock terminals would not fit the physical space.
It doesn't matter, but I was thinking that if they had a battery with the posts on the opposite side, would it just drop in?
The answer seems to be no.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:08:50 PM
Since the posts just screw off. I did just that
Then I removed the factory battery post clamps parts from the cable loom
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:09:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:10:57 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:14:19 PM
So, using the studs, I simply ran a short terminal-ended cable from the stud (battery) to the loom and attached it to an existing stud.
And, just like that, I was done!
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 02:22:19 PM
Everything is working fine with no additional warning lights.
It may be just me, but I'd have to say, the Jeep is feeling a bit more "Sprightly" and eager in the acceleration department.
So far I have lost 66 pounds from the front bumper. I lost nearly 100 from the rear seat delete. I lost around 20 from the exhaust swap. I lost another 20-something from removal of the heavy AEV lights. I just tossed another 30-odd pounds with the battery swap. All total I'm down from 230-250 pounds so far.
I likely picked up some weight from the new suspension, but the electric running boards were a 1 to 1 swap from losing the Rubicon rock rails.
I am not sure if the Icon wheels are any heavier or lighter, I'd have to check that but it's looking like.
But driving it, well, it just responds better. I am happy with this most recent change
Post by: JR on April 20, 2023, 05:12:04 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 20, 2023, 07:44:27 PM
As long as you like it. Now do the LS.LT, you meant to say LT... ya know all the electronic wizardry it does over the Hemi plus having 10 gears to be thinkin' about while driving up mountainsides.
Post by: JR on April 20, 2023, 08:12:39 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 21, 2023, 01:09:53 PM
But is it worth it?
Well, I can say for everything I'd like to do, yes. I feel the Jeep Gladiator is the best off-road adventure platform made in the world. 1/2 ton chassis, and solid axles. I have electric lockers, a disconnecting sway bar, and decent axles. The approach/departure angles are great although breakover is a tad lacking, but with a V8, I could then tow my overland camper and have a complete package. With the V6 the power to pull 4K just isn't there unless I want to be running down two gears and getting 12 mpg all the time...I don't.
I am considering a big change to how we live, and if I do that, then the door opens to create a Chevy V8 Gladiator.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 21, 2023, 01:11:06 PM
Post by: JR on April 21, 2023, 02:28:03 PM
LS is way easier and cheaper.
Post by: cj7ox on April 21, 2023, 04:35:48 PM
Thats good news for the battery swap.
LS is way easier and cheaper.
Hemi would be easier than LT ot LS. Probably plug and play since they already offer it. Be aware that those axles may not hold up to V8 horsepower. ;-)
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 21, 2023, 04:42:20 PM
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Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 21, 2023, 04:43:17 PM
Love you brother. All in good fun. Here’s some temptation.Proof
https://www.rubitrux.com/wrangler-jl-gladiator-jt-6-2l-hellcat-srt-supercharged-hemi-conversion-swap.html
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And there is a much cheaper 37k option with a 505hp 6.4 with warranty….
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Post by: Flyin6 on April 21, 2023, 06:00:27 PM
I've done some checkingThats good news for the battery swap.
LS is way easier and cheaper.
Hemi would be easier than LT ot LS. Probably plug and play since they already offer it. Be aware that those axles may not hold up to V8 horsepower. ;-)
The stock axle assemblies with upgraded forged axles are all that is required for the base 6.4 505 hp hemi swap. For anything north of that, they replace the rear with a 60.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 21, 2023, 06:03:04 PM
Ya you did...Love you brother. All in good fun. Here’s some temptation.Proof
https://www.rubitrux.com/wrangler-jl-gladiator-jt-6-2l-hellcat-srt-supercharged-hemi-conversion-swap.html
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And there is a much cheaper 37k option with a 505hp 6.4 with warranty….
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That hemi swap here is right at $30K
I think the swap into the 6.2 LS3 is a little less than that if you bolt the Mopar trans onto the LS.
I think the whole system comes to life with that 10-speed, and that requires an LT engine.
The installation looks stock. Everything is where it should be.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 21, 2023, 07:06:35 PM
In my humble opinion, as the guy who is not writing the check, I would stick with Mopar. Everything just fits together and works and resale value will probably be higher.
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Post by: Bigdave_185 on April 21, 2023, 07:40:42 PM
Psy-ops. It’s working.Well we can assume the resale of this jeep will be? Six-eight-twelve months?
In my humble opinion, as the guy who is not writing the check, I would stick with Mopar. Everything just fits together and works and resale value will probably be higher.
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Post by: stlaser on April 21, 2023, 09:30:51 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 21, 2023, 10:40:22 PM
Don, let’s just save you the time & headache. Sell this gladiator and I’ll set you up with my good friend JB who happens to have a new gladiator with dynatrac axles and a helephant engine installed by Dakota customs. It’s supposed to go across block at mecum Indy shortly w/ a reserve but I’m sure you two can come to an agreement and by pass mecum. It has every option available and hardly any miles since swap.Well, I can't
I just glued all my unit patches to the ceiling of mine...Have to keep it now.
Post by: dave945 on April 21, 2023, 10:42:45 PM
I thought it was all supposed to be velcroed on so it could be sanitized on short notice for such an occasion as this…. ;)Don, let’s just save you the time & headache. Sell this gladiator and I’ll set you up with my good friend JB who happens to have a new gladiator with dynatrac axles and a helephant engine installed by Dakota customs. It’s supposed to go across block at mecum Indy shortly w/ a reserve but I’m sure you two can come to an agreement and by pass mecum. It has every option available and hardly any miles since swap.Well, I can't
I just glued all my unit patches to the ceiling of mine...Have to keep it now.
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Post by: JR on April 22, 2023, 12:30:41 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 22, 2023, 10:06:32 AM
Velcro wasn't stickin'!I thought it was all supposed to be velcroed on so it could be sanitized on short notice for such an occasion as this…. ;)Don, let’s just save you the time & headache. Sell this gladiator and I’ll set you up with my good friend JB who happens to have a new gladiator with dynatrac axles and a helephant engine installed by Dakota customs. It’s supposed to go across block at mecum Indy shortly w/ a reserve but I’m sure you two can come to an agreement and by pass mecum. It has every option available and hardly any miles since swap.Well, I can't
I just glued all my unit patches to the ceiling of mine...Have to keep it now.
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Yesterday I walked into family's restaurant in Walton to have B-fast with an Armee friend.
He pointed out there was something stuck to my hiking boots
...
It was one of the leather nametags that I had worn for years and had been "Velcro'd to the ceiling of the jeep
spray glue
Problem solved ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on April 22, 2023, 03:45:28 PM
Operations are still normal after the Braille battery swap to Lithium.
I have now driven the Jeep numerous times. I have driven all manner of roads from slow zones at 20mph, up to 70mph highway runs. I did a couple full throttle blasts and a fair share of idling. Nothing is any different from what it was before I was Lithium-ized. ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on April 22, 2023, 04:01:53 PM
Dave, Proof:I thought it was all supposed to be velcroed on so it could be sanitized on short notice for such an occasion as this…. ;)Don, let’s just save you the time & headache. Sell this gladiator and I’ll set you up with my good friend JB who happens to have a new gladiator with dynatrac axles and a helephant engine installed by Dakota customs. It’s supposed to go across block at mecum Indy shortly w/ a reserve but I’m sure you two can come to an agreement and by pass mecum. It has every option available and hardly any miles since swap.Well, I can't
I just glued all my unit patches to the ceiling of mine...Have to keep it now.
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and
Can you see anything "different" in the pix????
So, we used to do "Party jackets" like the Navee guys wear. You would purchase an A2 bomber jacket, then over the years sew all your patches all over it. My old one had my son looking like a clown, so I cut the patches off and glued them up there and to the ceiling of my Ram 3500.
Post by: dave945 on April 22, 2023, 07:18:15 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on April 22, 2023, 10:16:47 PM
Why’s the Green Hornets badge upside down in relation to the others?Good Eyes!
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No kidding...
Because it's the only Air Force patch up there!
When I was driving MH-47's for the regiment, our sister unit was the 20th SOS, 15th Air Force at Hurlburt.
They gave me that patch
So I have it a bit opposite from all the other Armee patches... ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on April 25, 2023, 04:13:35 PM
Again, I look to refuel at the best opportunity (Costco) after it drops below 1/2 tank.
Post by: Flyin6 on April 27, 2023, 01:25:04 PM
Hi Don,
Hope all is well and you're F34 experiment is going smoothly! I've been following your write ups and it seems like it's a success so far.
I'm currently out of the country traveling at the moment, but Oliver gave me a ring this morning and asked me to take a moment to respond to an email you sent last week. Sorry for the late response!
The main worry with using an improper charging profile on lithium batteries relates to the heat generation inside the cells themselves during charging. Many lithium chemistries struggle with handling heat buildup, but Braille Battery cells use lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), which is a much more thermally stable chemistry. We also use cells that are designed for power applications rather than energy storage, which allow them higher charging and discharging rates with less heat generation.
Hope this helps clear things up! Feel free to send me any more technical questions you have, and I'll do my best to get back to you ASAP.
Regards,
Sean
Post by: JR on April 27, 2023, 07:36:34 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on April 27, 2023, 08:26:00 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on May 02, 2023, 03:12:30 PM
It has come down because I am driving it a bit faster. I'm tired of being passed by everything, and by the bird strikes (They keep running into the tailgate while I'm on the highway ;-)
Post by: Flyin6 on May 08, 2023, 10:52:58 AM
This motor continues to underwhelm me. Just had the first oil change at around 5,000ish miles. Had the 4th tire rotation. They did a 5-wheel rotation which was pretty cool. All this is a part of the "Jeep-Wave" program which is free for a total of three oil changes and tire rotations.
Post by: wilsonphil on May 08, 2023, 05:12:45 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on May 08, 2023, 08:31:41 PM
HEMI be the man feel the power and I bet you get pretty close to the same MPGSez the Mopar man!
Post by: JR on May 08, 2023, 08:41:30 PM
Post by: wyorunner on May 09, 2023, 03:13:05 PM
Isn’t the hemi an option in this thing? Or is it just the aftermarket kit that one can bolt in?HEMI be the man feel the power and I bet you get pretty close to the same MPGSez the Mopar man!
Post by: Flyin6 on May 09, 2023, 03:37:47 PM
There is a JL 392 hemi option, but not for the JTIsn’t the hemi an option in this thing? Or is it just the aftermarket kit that one can bolt in?HEMI be the man feel the power and I bet you get pretty close to the same MPGSez the Mopar man!
Post by: cj7ox on May 10, 2023, 10:51:34 AM
Post by: Flyin6 on May 10, 2023, 06:56:55 PM
Should be plug and play, though, with the hemi.That is the biggest advantage of doing a HEMI
BTW, had a surprise today. After driving to/from the farm a couple of times, I actually just got 20.12 mpg for the last tank, and post oil change from a fresh fill.
Post by: Flyin6 on June 07, 2023, 06:03:06 PM
The battery failed!
Came right out of the blue, and I do not know what caused it, but here's how it happened:
I took the truck to Zimmer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for a recall. All they were supposed to do was to reflash the computer, which they did. It was only at the dealer for about 1.5 hours. We picked it up, then drove it around some, then parked it for the night. The next morning the thing was completely dead. There is no jumping or starting charge for lithium like with a standard battery, so I ended up charging it all day long. At the end of the day, it still was not showing a full charge using the supplied Braille Lithium battery charger, but the engine started and everything operated normally.
We drove it to go out to eat, then parked it, Saturday night. I got up for the early Sunday church service and it was completely dead again. After church, I applied the battery charger once again and after charging it all day, it would not accept a charge and remained dead.
So now I have to wonder what happened? Did the Jeep people turn something on in my Jeep that is draining the battery? Did they hook up a conventional charger to the thing? Did someone cross some wires damaging a cell or two? Or did the battery just die of unnatural causes?
Well, there is a bigger issue in sharp focus here. You see, whatever killed the thing, the elephant in the room is the fact that the Jeep failed to start. So, suppose I was 50 miles up inside the Daniel Boone National Forest and woke up to this? The battery although feather light failed to be reliable. Now, we will investigate the thing to see if we can determine what happened, but in my view at the moment, it has failed the reliability test. That means it may well be too fragile for automotive day-to-day service. I am not completely sure about that, but I sure can point to a dead Jeep in my driveway! What does that mean you ask?
well, despite my stated parameters of reducing weight in the JT, I must first and always have reliability. That means I cannot simply replace the Braille battery with another Lithium unit. It means I will have to call this test a failure for reasons unknown and switch back to an AGM battery. I am disappointed, but it is what it is I suppose.
Post by: Atkinsmatt on June 07, 2023, 06:28:45 PM
Post by: JR on June 07, 2023, 06:32:09 PM
It was pricy, about double that of a standard battery but it has double the cranking amps.
Post by: Bigdave_185 on June 07, 2023, 08:27:22 PM
Jr using a solar charger for his battery is not a good idea.
Lipo batteries do best when “Balance” charged not just charged. The high end chargers with charge the cells to all match.
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Post by: JR on June 07, 2023, 08:55:33 PM
Don, what does the company say?
Post by: Flyin6 on June 08, 2023, 09:09:51 AM
Its a cheapo 60w panel. I have been using 200 watts on my 200 amp hour Lifo at the ridge. 30 amp charger and the batteries have a BMS.Oliver, their sales director is keen to get it back. I will be shipping it to their Sarasota location for an analysis of what happened.
Don, what does the company say?
Post by: Flyin6 on June 08, 2023, 09:45:44 PM
Optima red top is in the low-mid 40's
Optima yellow top is like 38 lbs., so some weight savings over the stocker.
What else?
Has to be lightweight...
Post by: JR on June 08, 2023, 10:21:27 PM
Looked at oddesy?
Post by: TexasRedNeck on June 08, 2023, 11:11:58 PM
My humble opinion, sir.
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Post by: Flyin6 on June 09, 2023, 09:35:19 AM
So this is not the starter battery, just one that keeps all the electronics happy, right?No, I only have one battery. Deleted the small one some time ago. I have only been using the one for everything.
Looked at oddesy?
Post by: Flyin6 on June 09, 2023, 09:48:41 AM
I think you are being ounce wise and pound foolish. Save weight somewhere else. Get a good battery and put the second OEM one back in too. It was designed that way for a reason.Appreciate the feedback, but two batteries are not necessary for my setup.
My humble opinion, sir.
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With the start/stop feature and heavy city driving with lots of those ESS events the main battery becomes depleted. Jeep actually installed a 1000 CCA AGM in there just for that reason. When the voltage is being pulled down, the semi-isolated second battery keeps the voltage stable for the myriad of electronics. By simply deleting the second battery, there is no need for either an auxiliary battery nor a massive diesel-sized main battery. Real-world requirements for the V6 are around 750 CCA and a 60-75 minutes reserve amp...
The Jeep also has a very large alternator for faster recharges, so again it harkens to a far smaller/less capable battery for normal operations. Now in my case with deleted ESS, but with a voltage-sucking 12,000 lb. winch, my needs point to something with decent CCA but pretty big reserves. The Braille F34 Lithium fits those needs with truly massive CCA and acceptable reserve power, but Lithium can't stay around as long as regular batteries.
A lithium battery is considered 100% discharged right below 10 volts. Lead acid and AGM are not dead at 10 volts. They will still click a starter or run a radio of wind in a winch cable at 10 volts. I think that is the principal reason I need to switch back to a good AGM.
So, although I agree with your statement in context, the devil is in the details, and what Jeep engineers designed is no longer exactly what I am operating.
Post by: JR on June 09, 2023, 01:11:01 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on June 09, 2023, 04:45:00 PM
So now I'm all back in it and having to review my "Battery 101" notes. I drew those notes with crayons on aged tree bark, so it has been a while!
I know I need somewhere around 700 ish CCA (Cold cranking amps). But reviewing technical battery specifications that number can differ greatly from what the battery can actually provide for 5 seconds. A typical performance AGM battery with 750 CCA can also provide somewhere in the neighborhood of 1200-1300 amps for 5 seconds.
So, I'll say 750 is a good CCA number to hold onto.
Another number I feel is important is the number of times the thing can be almost fully discharged and still recover. I want that number to be a big one. I am finding that Odyssey batteries will cycle some 400+ times. That is fully charged to below 10 volts.
I also think Reserve capacity measured in minutes is important. My notes tell me that is the time (expressed in minutes a battery can maintain a 25 amp draw and remain above 10.5 volts. Most of the "gooder" batteries will all rate something past 2 hours. Again, the Odyssey is coming out on top.
Finally, weight is a concern. Well, they are all heavy, so that consideration is one that will have to move to the back row in lieu of performance.
Now, I discovered something else of concern. That is the metallurgy of the thing. Almost all AGM and lead/acid batteries use lead alloy. But this Odyssey stands alone (Almost) in that it uses pure lead plates. So why does that matter you wonder???
Well, a thinner plate of the pure stuff will make the same juice as a thicker lead alloy plate. So, you can have fewer thin plates and less weight to make the same power as the alloy batteries, or you can have more plates and generate more electrons at the same weight, a bunch more.
So now that I have moved from early in the investigative process to a place where I went from stupid, through "Just plain dumb," and have arrived at, "having a clue." There is danger here as a small mistake will make one "clueless," and I don't wanna be that poster child...
So I'll still investigate but for now, the Odyssey AGM48 H6 is a good choice @ around $310ish from a couple of places after a search.
Post by: JR on June 09, 2023, 07:51:16 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on June 09, 2023, 08:24:05 PM
Many Lifo batteries have a BCM, which saves the battery from over charging and discharging, plus you get the weight savings you want. Was you other battery a Lipo or Lifo with BCM?Lithium iron chemistry (Non-explosive) and I am not sure what if any BCM it had internal to it.
Post by: JR on June 09, 2023, 10:32:41 PM
Batteries at the ridge are Lifo. Been charging em on a cheapo 12v-30amp controller. 2x12v x 100 watt panels. So far so good in heat and cold.
Post by: Flyin6 on June 10, 2023, 11:35:07 AM
Better ones are now Lithium Phosphate. Just as light, no fire issues.Yes, Lithium Iron Phosphate. That's what this battery I had was. The issue was either some internal failure of the battery, some cell perhaps, or it may not have had a BCM unit. I am not sure Braille actually builds the batteries with an internal BCM.
Batteries at the ridge are Lifo. Been charging em on a cheapo 12v-30amp controller. 2x12v x 100-watt panels. So far so good in heat and cold.
Any spike in voltage is potentially damaging to any lithium battery without some circuit breaker sort of mechanism that intercepts then prevents the surge.
Edit: I may be behind the times. LiFePo is what I had, but doing a quick search yielded this:
A lithium polymer battery, or more correctly lithium-ion polymer battery (abbreviated as LiPo, LIP, Li-poly, lithium-poly and others), is a rechargeable battery of lithium-ion technology using a polymer electrolyte instead of a liquid electrolyte. High conductivity semisolid (gel) polymers form this electrolyte. These batteries provide higher specific energy than other lithium battery types and are used in applications where weight is a critical feature, such as mobile devices, radio-controlled aircraft and some electric vehicles.[2]
Post by: JR on June 10, 2023, 03:07:39 PM
Little off topic, but I have a history with lithium batteries.
Yes, we use LIPOs in RC planes, have for about 20 years now. In fact I think I flew the first heli with a commercial built battery (San Diego electric funfly with a Thunder Power 3s4p)
Lipos has really progressed since then as we had to parallel the packs to get the amperage from them, new batteries are way better so just series is needed. Rated as "C" for discharge based off capacity. 20C is very common now, so a 2000ma battery can put out 40 amps. We use fast chargers at the field and balance them when a fast charge is not needed. They have no BMS, but the speed controllers have a low voltage cutoff and max amp draw, but several HP is very easy now (1hp=746 watts). For longevity the need to stored at about 3.7v per cell.
2 issues is the fire hazard and over discharge. If punchered or ovecharged they burn like a book of matches, over discharged and they swell up and never really work as well.
I left a pack charging unattended once and it overcharged, burst into flames and I burned my garage down about 90%. It was traced to a bad charger (german made) and an owner who charged a pack unattended on flamable surface (what a dumbcrap) I was part of the fire investigation by the way.
Here is the full thread on the fire; https://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?463115-Be-Carefull%21%21
Post by: Flyin6 on June 15, 2023, 04:27:15 PM
I have noted the alternator will charge the battery anywhere from 13.7 volts, up to 14.5 volts. That has me wondering if the charge rate or voltage is too much for the LIPO battery???
Speaking of which, The lithium battery sat for a week uncharged. I pulled it and just for grins, placed the Braille charger on it. Before it would not charge the battery fully. After all night of charging it would not turn over the engine! Now for some reason, it shows to be fully charged! Like, as in, nothing wrong here...???
Not going to reinstall it until (if) I get some good answers as to why it failed twice in the first place.
Post by: Flyin6 on June 17, 2023, 08:25:00 PM
17.87 mpg
Post by: Bigdave_185 on July 04, 2023, 01:28:22 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on July 17, 2023, 01:08:17 PM
http://real-man-truckworks-and-survival.com/index.php?topic=5332.0
Post by: Flyin6 on July 17, 2023, 07:28:57 PM
The truck sits a bit taller than it did before the installation, but the weight it is about to have added will put things right back where they were I think
Post by: Flyin6 on July 19, 2023, 09:42:20 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on July 19, 2023, 09:43:29 PM
Post by: JR on July 19, 2023, 09:47:10 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on July 19, 2023, 10:04:14 PM
Looks like a Kali rig now. They are verywhere!I'll bet
You folks have outdoor adventure areas just about everywhere!
Post by: Bigdave_185 on July 19, 2023, 10:30:53 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on July 21, 2023, 10:10:08 AM
Where is the snorkelDave, I don't have one (Yet)
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two thoughts
It is not dusty enough to need one
And
Should I opt for a Hemi, the air intake is on the opposite side (I think)
Post by: wyorunner on July 21, 2023, 02:18:14 PM
Then you just run dual snorkels! It’s a jeep, I’m sure there’s a kit for itWhere is the snorkelDave, I don't have one (Yet)
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two thoughts
It is not dusty enough to need one
And
Should I opt for a Hemi, the air intake is on the opposite side (I think)
Post by: Flyin6 on July 21, 2023, 06:38:31 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on October 20, 2023, 03:03:35 PM
After returning, I addressed a couple of problems I encountered. First, I had trouble airing down the RR tire. I swapped out the valve and got some relief.
Learning from having to air up four big tires after a day of trail riding around 20 psi, I discovered a cool device that airs up/down all four tires at the same time. It is made by a company called "Speed Flate" and really works great!
https://www.speedflate.com/
I ordered the one with the orange-coiled, 4-tire system. It has a master open/close valve that allows one to bleed or inflate simultaneously.
Testing it with my 2-cylinder air pump, I could bleed the tires or inflate them quickly. Checking afterward showed all tires within 1-psi of the magic 37psi I use on the highway.
Post by: Flyin6 on October 20, 2023, 03:09:25 PM
The new system replaces that with a system with an anti-drain back valve and a normal cartridge-type filter.
That is on order.
Next, I see through research that the little V6 likes to suck oil up into the intake manifold. So, I ordered a canister oil vent tank to resolve and keep the intake system clean. Both of those items will be going on in a week or so.
Looking down the road, I am looking at chopping off the front frame extensions, removing the rear tow bar/hitch assembly, and replacing the electric side steps with some HD sliders.
Post by: JR on October 22, 2023, 01:15:49 PM
Air system, "made with love in Ca"?
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:21:14 PM
The factory oil filter configuration which sits on top of the engine will drain its oil back into the pan after 20-30 minutes causing the engine to be dry-started many times during its lifespan.
Baxter Performance offers a device that replaces the oil filter with an assembly that allows for the installation of a standard cartridge filter with an anti-drain back valve that keeps the filter charged so no more dry-starts.
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:23:46 PM
In went 5 quarts of Castrol GTX full synthetic 0W-20
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:26:27 PM
So there is a wee bit of trickiness with the installation, but it is easy.
Now I am protected against that design problem
So on to addressing another design error with the Pentastar engine
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:28:45 PM
Enter a Morimoto Catch can. Ya a bit pricey, but engineered perfectly for an easy 1-hour install that fit great.
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:30:00 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:35:07 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:36:32 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:38:59 PM
I did find one control arm end lock nut backed off which I locktited and re-secured.
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 01:41:14 PM
Here is the finish of the install:
Post by: JR on October 28, 2023, 02:40:04 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 03:56:56 PM
Cool upgrades, that is a funky place for a filter.The factory one is about 2" lower but in the same place...
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 28, 2023, 06:36:57 PM
It sure made oil changes easier (the normal kind).
A top sider oil vacuum and a probe to insert in the dipstick and you changed the oil without ever getting underneath or really getting dirty.
The catch can is cool. I may put one in the denali since its DI there is nothing to clean the backside of the intake valve.
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Post by: Flyin6 on October 28, 2023, 09:17:37 PM
That may have been a solution in search of a problem. Mercedes Benz has used that top engine cartridge design for decades without issue.May not be apples to apples. The Mopar design DOES NOT contain an anti-drain-back issue. I have to think that is an oversight. Coupled with the fact that the Pentastar, now something like 13 million strong suffers from camshaft/rocker arm failures due to galling. Seems reasonable to assume a constant supply of oil may prevent that.
It sure made oil changes easier (the normal kind).
A top sider oil vacuum and a probe to insert in the dipstick and you changed the oil without ever getting underneath or really getting dirty.
The catch can is cool. I may put one in the denali since its DI there is nothing to clean the backside of the intake valve.
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Does the Merc design contain an anti-drainback feature? I would certainly hope so.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 01, 2023, 08:49:17 PM
I ordered and received some butyl rubber tape, so I removed all the gorilla tape from the top of the IKamper, and then cleaned the surface with thinner. The butyl tape made for a much more positive connection I feel. This should be the last of my problems with the panel coming loose.
Cleaning the motor was in prep for an upcoming project. I noted a lot of dust on the motor and in the air filter system. Running the intake system low like Jeep keeps it in the dust zone, so I have decided to install a snorkel system.
I already ordered it and the thing is sitting here in a huge box. I will be using the Flowmaster system, the best/most cost-effective system out there. I got the snorkel, a new air box with a huge filter, and a new air inlet tube. The new tube is 4" in diameter vs the 3" in diameter for the stocker. All this will not only help with the dust issue but make way for a bigger TB and some intake manifold porting which I may be doing around mid-winter.
I figure someone will crack the code to program our newer computers soon. I also know tuners were getting big torque gains, like over 50 on the same old computer engine. Anyway, I will be getting into this pdq.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 02, 2023, 05:19:40 PM
It looks much better now and the tape is not lifting at all in 24 hours.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 02, 2023, 05:20:47 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 05:55:18 PM
First thing you have to rip out the stick induction system, the whole thing!
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 05:56:53 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 05:57:41 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 05:58:22 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 05:59:30 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 06:00:50 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 06:02:14 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 06:04:00 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 06:05:44 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 06, 2023, 06:07:30 PM
Post by: JR on November 06, 2023, 07:42:48 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2023, 06:24:18 PM
Cutting that hole, which was about the only thing left to do took several hours. Essentially, you have to "sneak up" on the correct size. From wherever you start, I'm betting you have a half dozen or more cuts remaining and a goodly amount of filing as well.
I marked the approximate position, then taped the business up.
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2023, 06:25:40 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2023, 06:26:59 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2023, 06:30:08 PM
So I cut it larger and larger, and at least 6 times. I filed each time and checked the trim ring, then adjusted the cut some more...And so it went for about two hours.
At this point I noticed the trim ring was sitting 9/16" low, so guess what I had to do again, and again, and two more times!!!!!
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2023, 06:31:47 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2023, 06:36:50 PM
And here comes the surprising part. I went for my test drive and discovered the joy of induction sound that had been mostly missing.
and
No doubt about it, it has better acceleration than before. The factory system must have had some restriction that is now absent because it just feels peppier. I was able to accelerate right up to 72 mph and lock it in there, and it cruised with more ease than it did before. It felt like it was struggling some before, but now it seems to be more willing to run at that speed. I tested it on a highway loop and netted 16.2 mpg. The previous tankful negged 15.9, so the increase is really within the margin of error.
Post by: Atkinsmatt on November 07, 2023, 06:53:02 PM
Post by: JR on November 07, 2023, 07:30:10 PM
Post by: Flyin6 on November 07, 2023, 10:00:17 PM
Yep, looks good. Wheres the "Real-Man" logo?Good catch JR
Don't have one on this truck...Think I ought to put one on there?
Post by: oklawall on November 08, 2023, 10:35:11 AM
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Post by: Flyin6 on November 08, 2023, 07:07:10 PM
Looks greatThank you!
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 29, 2024, 04:51:28 PM
As usual, I am questioning everything.
One thing I did not like so much was the sag of the rear springs. You may recall that first I installed the standard Overland spring, and that seemed to droop under the weight of all the overland stuff. I swapped in the HD overland rear spring and oddly enough, it sagged a little too. I had installed a rear Firestone airbag, and that is sort of a band-aid. It prevents the rear springs from really flexing so although I can again carry a bunch of weight, I am limiting rear flexibility. You always need to run air in the bag since it is made to shove itself out between the coils. If you let the air all out, then the spring chaffs against the poly bag and damages it.
So, I am scrutinizing all of that. The search for a solution led me to Metal Cloak once again. When last I upgraded to Clayton suspension components, Metal Cloak was the contender. In the end, I got a wonderful deal from Clayton and so I went with them.
Well all that is up in the air again, so today I called Metal Cloak again and talked to Will, a 12-year veteran of MC. He is one of the smart guys and is a wealth pool of information about many areas of Jeeping, suspensions, and overlanding.
He recommends I install their overlanding kit with a 4.5" rear spring and a 3.5" front spring along with their new Rock Sport black 2.5" adjustable shocks.
I am currently running the Falcon 3,3 series Big Shock and they are really good. But they are made for super soft springs, and Clayton springs are not. Being somewhat firmer, I have gone full soft in my adjustment to get a livable ride. Apparently, according to Will, the Metal Cloak springs are firmer, and therefore their shocks are tuned along those lines. The bottom line is they would be a much better match.
So for now all of this including a full suspension change is in the zone of consideration for the upcoming Wyoming adventure.
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 29, 2024, 07:50:58 PM
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Post by: Flyin6 on January 30, 2024, 09:58:19 AM
Nice job on the hood stack cutting. It’s always a pucker moment when cutting a painted surfaceConcur
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I made many cuts, sneaking up on the final profile.
Saving grace: The trim piece,
and,
The fact that the hood is aluminum.