Author Topic: What do you do with a 2006, 115k DMax,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, (Read 14725 times)

JR · « **on:** July 10, 2015, 08:03:50 PM »

Well, you do a makeover of course!!

I bought this truck new in 2006 after the insurance paid off after a garage fire. I actually bought a 1500hd first with the 6ltr gas but it never had the power or mileage I desired. So I traded it in for 5k less than I bought it for, which I thought was a good. Finding the Dmax I wanted was no trouble, but getting the $$ I wanted for it was.

The 1500hd was the same color and trim but had the 9.5 rear. Best I ever got in mileage was 16 coming back from LA and driving like a baby.

You can see the result of the fire in the background. (I have a build thread here; http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=704660&highlight=garage

Then I added tires, wheels, exhaust and a tuner. You can see my 96 burb for sale back there to.

JR · « **Reply #1 on:** July 10, 2015, 08:24:40 PM »

I had put a shell on it, but can't find the picture. No biggy as it is on the DMax now! Here was the first stop, the tire store!!

And here is how it looked right after,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Dawg25385 · « **Reply #2 on:** July 10, 2015, 08:33:31 PM »

Oil/fluid change???

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JR · « **Reply #3 on:** July 10, 2015, 08:34:16 PM »

On both you may notice the truck is not stock height. I had added the Cognito UCA to the 1500 with Bilstien 5100's and they swapped right over to the DMax alone with 3 inch rear blocks.

Sure may you have cranked up the UCAs for a little more clearance which is OK for about 2 inches. After that you loose down travel and the "ride" of the vehicle. By adding after market UCAs arms you gain more travel both ways and it improves the geometry in the process.

JR · « **Reply #4 on:** July 10, 2015, 08:35:38 PM »

Quote from: Dawg25385 on July 10, 2015, 08:33:31 PM

Oil/fluid change???

Yep, but this is about 9 years in the making now. Just shy of BD fluid change.

Dawg25385 · « **Reply #5 on:** July 10, 2015, 08:54:45 PM »

Well I'm in, and will try to derail wherever possible ;)

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Flyin6 · « **Reply #6 on:** July 10, 2015, 10:18:46 PM »

I'm in too

TexasRedNeck · « **Reply #7 on:** July 10, 2015, 10:53:20 PM »

Dot army en masse.

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Sammconn · « **Reply #8 on:** July 10, 2015, 11:14:07 PM »

Hooah! We got us another place to hang out.

Nate · « **Reply #9 on:** July 10, 2015, 11:24:09 PM »

that's all we get for a night?!

for sale: 2006 gmc sierra 2500HD 4x4
pewter, leveled, aftermarket tires and rims, old man camper shell, never driven over 55MPH because I live in CA and im a little scared of all the power, water/meth tank in the bed. ill take 10K for it, first one to make an offer can get it for 9K.............any takers?

JR · « **Reply #10 on:** July 11, 2015, 01:40:11 AM »

Quote from: nmeyer414 on July 10, 2015, 11:24:09 PM

that's all we get for a night?!

Had to wait for you to go to bed, here is a little more.

Added 4 inch exhaust and lost the muffler. Don't need no stinking muffler with a turbo.

Added TTT mirrors as I didn't the GM towing mirrors, nor the Cipas.

Even some old man running boards so the little ones could climb in.

JR · « **Reply #11 on:** July 11, 2015, 01:48:23 AM »

Played with tuners starting with the Diablo that really worked good, but you always want more.

Next step was EFI live and I played with swapping and modding tunes a little. Still a little above my head but I turned off some of the "reporting" and trouble CEL lights. For instance the EGR was "fixed" and the PCV was rerouted.

I also installed a transgo jr kit and adjusted for the larger tires and top end speed. I think it is 125mph, but have never got that far, but well over 100 for sure.

JR · « **Reply #12 on:** July 11, 2015, 03:49:38 AM »

I was heavy into RC aircraft at this time and got a trailer I was going to build into a toy hauler/repair station. The sub had served well for this hobby but was just a 1/2 ton. It did however get me to San Diego a few times as well as LV, Grand Canyon and a couple trips up to Canada.

I added a nice shell that had been on the 1500hd and a Bedslider. Bedsliders are cool and just a lighter version of what you see in many emergency vehicles. You loose a tad of strorage but gain so much much versatilty!!!

JR · « **Reply #13 on:** July 13, 2015, 01:27:17 PM »

Ran the Nitto's for some time then ran the Yokahamo Geolanders. I really liked those tires but they had a funny harmonics at around 65-70. Best tire I ever drove in snow. Drove Got threw the roadblocks on I 80 during snow storm and drove the 75 miles with hardly a hitch. I even tried to break em loose in the snow and they were solid!

Went to Toyo Open Countrys with new rims and got $1000 for the Yokos!

moto123 · « **Reply #14 on:** July 13, 2015, 01:45:00 PM »

I am confused... I see three different wheel sets and three different side mirrors sets. I know you said you did this over 9 years, but where are we in the build progress so far? Did you get it new and it now has 115K and you are thinking of doing another change? Or is this a summary of changes from the past? Either way it looks awesome!

JR · « **Reply #15 on:** July 13, 2015, 02:01:40 PM »

1st truck is the 1500HD I had for 6 months and traded for the 2500HD. 1500 had tow mirrors I never liked so I got the HD with stock mirrors and upgraded to the TTT mirrors.

JR · « **Reply #16 on:** July 17, 2015, 12:43:40 AM »

In keeping with my model plane hobby. I wanted a trailer to build for shows and repairs (I was/am really big into this). So I ordered up a custom trailer and went to Las Vegas to pick it up (any excuse will do, right!!)

It was 20ftx8.5ft with HD axels and led lighting. I took it to a few shows and was about to make it a real TH. But family took over little and I sold it for what I paid. I had added a nice alum box up front with 2 deep cycle batteries, roof AC, awning, a 3000 watt generator, Fridge and 2000watt inverter.

For repairs I had 2 Craftsman benches, mini lathe and mill with tools and supply's for anything!!

JR · « **Reply #17 on:** July 17, 2015, 01:05:36 AM »

A little out of place, but this is how much I used to be into Models Plans. I was a rep for a Model helicopter company for a while and beta tested for many more.

My trips took me to San Diego and Canada, with many in between. Many fly or drive all over the country(s).

Right after 911 I went up to Chilliwack, BC in Canada for a fun fly. This is how I set up and this is what I saw on the way home, Memorial weekend.

Flyin6 · « **Reply #18 on:** July 17, 2015, 12:52:51 PM »

Sweet!

JR · « **Reply #19 on:** July 18, 2015, 12:58:02 AM »

Thx BD, it was fun while it lasted. The trailer that is, still play with the toys.

When I sold that I rolled it right over to this;

Flyin6 · « **Reply #20 on:** July 18, 2015, 08:52:01 AM »

Yea...

I want something more in that size range say 21-25 feet, no bigger

Been lookin' at that big Lance. I think a trailer that size needs a foldout, then call it good!

Something an air conditioner could actually cool and something that discourages grand kids and their parents from jumpin' in! :)

cudakidd53 · « **Reply #21 on:** July 18, 2015, 10:16:31 AM »

LOL- two foot-itus hits a saturation point and then reverses flow! That's why parents sell their home and "down size" so the birds can't re occupy the nest!

We have a 28' with a slide- very comfortable for the three of us and room for a guest of our daughters or two; beyond that, you gotta REALLY like someone to cram any more in it! Water discipline usually keeps that at bay, as most don't realize they're not at home where a running faucet is a non-issue!

JR · « **Reply #22 on:** July 18, 2015, 04:57:04 PM »

Thats a 23fst above, no slides. While we 5 can sleep in there easy, there is room for more, but it can get crowded.

We don't live in it, we sleep in it and the kids enjoy a movie now and then. Separate bedroom up front is nice. This is not a lightweight either, DMax does just fine.

I think a 23-35ft with a slide, lightweight would be just right. For pulling alot a 5th is the way to go.

JR · « **Reply #23 on:** July 31, 2015, 02:42:56 PM »

Spent thursday at Ice House lake right near the entrance to the rubicon. Kids had a blast in their kayaks, caught a few little fish and beat the 108 heat down in the valley.

Darn cat would even go outside!!

Heard a rattle on the front of the dmax going up, so when the kids played I jacked up the left side. Found another bad upper ball joint (heard it last week at Lassen). This is the second one in 2 years. Called Napa and got a couple Spicers for it vs the Moogs that just don't seem to last.

Oh wait, the mail is here, guess what showed up!!!!

Oh, and this is what my ankles look like at the end of a day,,,,,,,,,

KensAuto · « **Reply #24 on:** July 31, 2015, 05:25:48 PM »

They don't look so good. Better kick back and watch some telly today.

...oh, nice barrel!

cudakidd53 · « **Reply #25 on:** July 31, 2015, 06:42:37 PM »

OUCH those don't look very good there JR, have you tried compression sox?

Nate · « **Reply #26 on:** July 31, 2015, 07:08:10 PM »

what meds are you taking that you are retaining water like that?

JR · « **Reply #27 on:** July 31, 2015, 07:19:04 PM »

Quote from: KensAuto on July 31, 2015, 05:25:48 PM

They don't look so good. Better kick back and watch some telly today.

...oh, nice barrel!

Thats how they look everyday, don't feel that good either.

Yes it is!!!

JR · « **Reply #28 on:** July 31, 2015, 07:33:19 PM »

Quote from: nmeyer414 on July 31, 2015, 07:08:10 PM

what meds are you taking that you are retaining water like that?

PMS, oh no!!!!

That is how they get after walking a little, sitting a lot. A full day on them and I am in agony and motrin or aleeve does nothing!

JR · « **Reply #29 on:** July 31, 2015, 07:42:50 PM »

Anywho, have to address the upper ball joints. Just came back from Napa with some spicer/napa units that are supposed to be better. Have a new idler and cognito peices too.

Flyin6 · « **Reply #30 on:** July 31, 2015, 10:23:19 PM »

JR,

I think you probably know thin, but are you getting enough aerobic exercise? A cardiologist friend of mine makes me do 45 min a day. I cheat, but get 4 days a week done.

The reason I mention it is when the pump starts to lose efficiency, it first manifests in the ankles, as in swelling. Weaker heart can't move fluids as well and they begin to collect in the lower extremities.

By no means get alarmed or anything, just want to cover the bases, that's all.

Sammconn · « **Reply #31 on:** July 31, 2015, 11:16:55 PM »

That sucks with the ankles.

Question for you, back on the makeover topic.
Have you done the pump run fix yet, or are you like me, on borrowed time?
I ask because I'm approaching 200k without doing it yet. I believe it is due to my miles coming in very large chunks as opposed to city stop and go.
I have the kit sitting on my bench, for about 50k now. Lol. I really need to get at it I suppose.

Nate · « **Reply #32 on:** August 01, 2015, 12:38:33 AM »

Would you rather spend a few hours doing the fix or would you rather spend lots of $k on a new case half and then doing the upgrade.......?

Truthfully guys, i did it like 3.5 hrs.....just make sure you have a good set of snap ring pliers and a 15mm stubby wrench for the very top bolt on the case where it mates to the tranny.

JR · « **Reply #33 on:** August 01, 2015, 04:11:09 AM »

I am on borrowed time on the case pump. I did a quick fix and it is holding. It will get done with the rest of this thread during the lift and several little other things.

On my pump Don. There is some anemia I'm sure, but actual cardio is out. It swells around and above the ankles, not all the way up.
Just moving around the pool makes em hurt, but that is playing with the kids. You can see blood pooling above the heals, there is some real damage in there.

My bike is the best bet right now. I have dropped 25+ so far, but have a good 30 to go, but working on it. Even on the camping trips, I can keep up with the kids cept for the ankle/foot pain. Not to say I am in great shape, but I don't fall on my face either. They said I need it scoped now and the tech was on vaca until 8-1, so its time.

Flyin6 · « **Reply #34 on:** August 01, 2015, 10:07:55 AM »

Dag-gone JR, I don't like hearing that

Are you seeing anyone about that?

You ever heard of Nathan Morris?

Goggle him...perhaps make it to one of his healing services. I worked the one at my church. I was right beside him for hundreds of these healing prayers...unbelievable!

JR · « **Reply #35 on:** August 01, 2015, 01:15:02 PM »

Xrays showed chips and rips hat pulled bone off the tibia. Had an MRI and now they want a scope before surgery.

As I said, good days and bad days, need to get this done.

JR · « **Reply #36 on:** August 02, 2015, 05:34:01 AM »

Been under the max all afternoon and into the wee hours now. Called it quits after midnight. Need to use tools that make noise but not bug the neighbors, too much,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

New upper ball joints, cognito steering braces, sway bar spacers, new idler and up the injection to the 530ml nozzle. Will finish and post tomorrow.

JR · « **Reply #37 on:** August 03, 2015, 01:34:57 AM »

So here is the story on the Dmax.

Heard a little clicking under the front last week at camp with the boys. For some reason I just didn't think of looking into it until I heard again up Ice House (near the Rubicon) I check it quick up there and find the upper left ball joint is sloppy, again! I had replaced it 2 years ago after a Shasta trip >:(

SO pull it down and say what the heck and do them both, but used spicer instead of moog this time. Also decided to do the idler and add the Cognito steering brace I have had a for a couple years ::)

JR · « **Reply #38 on:** August 03, 2015, 01:47:27 AM »

I also find this rip in the HD Cognito tie rod boot as it rubbed on the sway bar. Now I have the Cognito sway bar kit which is supposed to address this, but it is still a little to close. The easy fix here a stack of washers under the mount, and we are good!

JR · « **Reply #39 on:** August 03, 2015, 01:56:03 AM »

Then I get to the ball joints. These are spicer units sold by Napa. I have never used the included bolts as a 5/16 fits in there just fine vs the 1/4 crap. Torque em to 30ft lbs and you are ready to go. The lower bolt gets 90ft lbs.

JR · « **Reply #40 on:** August 03, 2015, 02:00:07 AM »

Then I replaced the stock Idler with a new Moog unit with a cool little grease fitting. It is cast iron, vs the stock alum unit.

The fitting is nice if you have ever tried to grease the circled zerk.

JR · « **Reply #41 on:** August 03, 2015, 02:02:55 AM »

The idler is now greased form here;

Sammconn · « **Reply #42 on:** August 03, 2015, 08:25:36 AM »

That remote grease zerk is the answer!
I really hate getting my big paws and the grease line up in there.

Looks good there JR.

TexasRedNeck · « **Reply #43 on:** August 03, 2015, 09:55:51 AM »

Did that zero come with the part or is it available separately?

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rasimmo · « **Reply #44 on:** August 03, 2015, 10:28:47 AM »

Quote from: TexasRedNeck on August 03, 2015, 09:55:51 AM

Did that zero come with the part or is it available separately?

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I had the same question. With the power of Google I found the part number. K6714

PDF of the complete idler that lists the part number.
http://www.moogproblemsolver.com/_pdf_En/MOOG_PS_Bulletin_27027_K6714_En.pdf
Edit: This does not list newer than 07, but I think the grease fitting should be the same.

Google search for that part number.
https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#q=moog+k6714

JR · « **Reply #45 on:** August 03, 2015, 12:26:52 PM »

Yes it is a sweet upgrade, but think you could make it up.

I think the 2 zerks on the top of the center link need 90 zerks too. Trying to get the gun on them is a bare. You have to crank the wheel to either side to get your mugs up there.

JR · « **Reply #46 on:** August 03, 2015, 12:31:48 PM »

So next with all the parts on I lowered it down and drove it around the block. It felt better but I hear lots of tire noise. Looking down both sides it looked like I had toe out, a lot!!

So jacked her up and put a line around each tire with a grease pen then set it back down (not good to check jacked up)

I found I had 3 inches of toe out! Nothing like dragging miles of use off the tires. I guess I really did need a few parts down there.

JR · « **Reply #47 on:** August 03, 2015, 12:37:18 PM »

Now I am no alignment guru but I had to clean this up to get it down to the shop.

So after about 10 minutes and 3 adjustment I got I felt was about 1/8 toe in, but it still has some serious camber to address.

It will be cool to see the spec sheet on how far off I am, was. I was getting some good pocketing on the old Toyos when I took them off.

Flyin6 · « **Reply #48 on:** August 03, 2015, 01:51:38 PM »

Nice little trick with that zerk extension, JR

cudakidd53 · « **Reply #49 on:** August 03, 2015, 05:26:29 PM »

Home made tool for checking toe: piece of scrap electical conduit and weld 12" - 18" long 1" wide thin sheet metal thick enough to hold itself straight but thin enough to bend by hand. You keep the pipe flat on the floor and use the flat stock to check the toe front and back at spindle height on tire. You cut the pipe to a length that suits your needs, or you can rig up an adjustable length one.