Building an "Adventure XJ"

[OverlandXJ]

Lets say you wanted to build an XJ for all around backcountry travel and exploration. What modifications and equipment would you consider absolute necessities and what would you consider just extra "stuff".

Not everyone will have the same idea of what a solid backcountry vehicle will consist of. For example, some may pass on lift and lockers in favor of a first aid kit lacking only lifeflight capabilities. Lets hear your personal preferences, how would you build YOUR perfect Cherokee.

Feel free to explain your opinions on gear and modifications to suit your personal preference of outdoor activity involving your Jeep Cherokee.

:repair:

[CROSBIKE]

On board air. selectable lockers
spare axle shafts front and rear and corresponding u joint spares
roof rack to just throw more stuff up on.
lots more im just tired

[xjwisconsin]

thought about taking out the front passenger seat and creating a platform deck to match the rear... just more space for you and your gear. or in the same mindset removing the rear seats to create a bunk area...

[MT Mike]

On board air. selectable lockers
spare axle shafts front and rear and corresponding u joint spares
roof rack to just throw more stuff up on.


3.5" RE lift w/ 31x10.50s (easiest to maintain), high quality 2 person tent, high quality sleeping bag, camp stove, chainsaw, good first aid kit, good tool set, inverter, RV style plug in fridge, water purification system, cookware, ammunition storage, shovel, axe, high lift jack. Enough to spend weeks in the back country with.

[mojojojo]

http://xxxpedition.com/aboutrig/rig2.html

[DrMoab]

Onboard hot water shower would be a must.

If I didn't have kids I thought the perfect vehicle for long haul expeditions would be a Commanche with D44s front and rear, Selectable lockers front and rear, a rooftop tent just above the pickup bed. Or one of these...

http://adventuretrailers.com/trucks.html

Then you wouldn't have a need for a trailer. Also it would have to have two spares.

[IntrepidXJ]

a winch, for sure.

[GSequoia]

a wench, for sure.

Fixed. :laugh3:

Clever storage is a must. For expidition purposes I'd drag my trailer along with so I could keep the cargo area relitively empty for those late night I just gotta sleep moment when I gotta curl up in the back.

[OverlandXJ]

Onboard hot water shower would be a must.

If I didn't have kids I thought the perfect vehicle for long haul expeditions would be a Commanche with D44s front and rear, Selectable lockers front and rear, a rooftop tent just above the pickup bed. Or one of these...

http://adventuretrailers.com/trucks.html

Then you wouldn't have a need for a trailer. Also it would have to have two spares.


I did some researching on an onboard shower setup, mostly at Pirate. Seems to me they can be a real PITA to fab up a heat exchanger with variable temp control that could be adustable once in a shower shelter etc. I opted for a Zodi unit and have been extremely happy with it. Look around and you can get a better deal via ebay, Wal-Mart etc vs their advertised online prices. John at Zodi routinely sells what he calls show demo units (unused) cheaper on ebay himself.

And i agree on the MJ! Mario at Adventure Trailer has a nice setup MJ and his trailer... killer combo.

[GSequoia]

A sun shower is good enough for me. If you have a roof rack just pop it up there for the day.

Granted it'd kinda suck on cloudy days ;)

[OverlandXJ]

A sun shower is good enough for me. If you have a roof rack just pop it up there for the day.

Granted it'd kinda suck on cloudy days ;)


BRRRR... 90% of my camping has been in temps where it never exceeds mid 70's.

:laugh:

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/HPIM1867.jpg

[Gerr]

I would do a 3 inch lift 30 or 31's and front no slip. a winch and good strap etc. I had this setup and it worked extreamly well and got me into places we use to have to hike to even thought the road went there. Its mild enough to even be a daily driver

[BIgDaddyChia]

Hey John B. Lets have a race to see who can make the coolest adventur style rig.

[Prepmech]

It would need one of these:
http://bumperdumper.com/art/road8.jpg

[OverlandXJ]

Hey John B. Lets have a race to see who can make the coolest adventur style rig.


Your on... :jester:

[Sting25]

I am thinking about taking the rear seat out of mine and adding a platfor so I store some extra stuff like tent and axle shafts etc..

I would add a HAM radio to your lists, the test is EASY and much better then a CB. I have communications from almost anywhere now..

Chris

[IntrepidXJ]

Hey John B. Lets have a race to see who can make the coolest adventur style rig.

mine has to be as ready as i can get it in less than a month :)

[BIgDaddyChia]

mine has to be as ready as i can get it in less than a month :)

Its amazing who run into on one board from other boards.

[casm]

I would add a HAM radio to your lists, the test is EASY and much better then a CB. I have communications from almost anywhere now..

Agreed, but with a slight difference: have both the CB and ham rig.

Most ham radios won't let you get to the 11-metre band that CB operates in, but there are a lot of people out there with only CB radios. Given that you may not always be able to hit a repeater or other ham user, the CB's at least another option - and since most folks on the trails are still using CB, it makes sense to at least have it as a backup.

[karstic]

Lets say you wanted to build an XJ for all around backcountry travel and exploration. What modifications and equipment would you consider absolute necessities and what would you consider just extra "stuff".

Not everyone will have the same idea of what a solid backcountry vehicle will consist of. For example, some may pass on lift and lockers in favor of a first aid kit lacking only lifeflight capabilities. Lets hear your personal preferences, how would you build YOUR perfect Cherokee.

Feel free to explain your opinions on gear and modifications to suit your personal preference of outdoor activity involving your Jeep Cherokee.

:repair:

A lot of your build depends on where and how long your adventures will be. For example a trip to the local NF for the weekend is a lot different then a month long expedition down to Baja.

Either way your rig should be built to be one, reliable, two, safe and three, easy to repair with easily available parts (or carry spares for those one off parts you may have on your rig).

More later...off to do some schuplattling.

[Sting25]

Yes I agree totaly I forgot about the cb....I also carry FSR/GSM aradios they are crazy cheep and becoming more popular for 4x4ing and they are handy when the wife takes a hike while fixing something on the trail...



Agreed, but with a slight difference: have both the CB and ham rig.

Most ham radios won't let you get to the 11-metre band that CB operates in, but there are a lot of people out there with only CB radios. Given that you may not always be able to hit a repeater or other ham user, the CB's at least another option - and since most folks on the trails are still using CB, it makes sense to at least have it as a backup.

[casm]

Yes I agree totaly I forgot about the cb....I also carry FSR/GSM aradios they are crazy cheep and becoming more popular for 4x4ing and they are handy when the wife takes a hike while fixing something on the trail...

FRS and GMRS radios are great for short-range communication, but have a few drawbacks:

FRS radios are limited to a maximum of 500mW power at the key, and must have fixed antennas. Since you can't change the antenna (arguably the most important component of any radio), if the manufacturer cheaped out on it you'll lose a great deal of potential effectiveness. The relatively low power outputs can compound this problem, along with terrain. FRS is also becoming as much of a conversational cesspit as CB is given the ubiquity of the radios.

GMRS requires a licence. It's a no-test mail-in, usually included in the package, and IIRC it's around $80 for five years. Enforcement of non-licensed radios is pretty lax, but there have been a couple of cases where unlicensed operators have been prosecuted. This was typically after sustained abuse of licensed GMRS repeaters, however. Also bear in mind that the seven simplex GMRS channels are shared with FRS, so if you're using the radios anywhere near a concentration of FRS users your non-repeater channels are going to be crowded with the same traffic.

Note that I'm not knocking them - I think that creating these services is one of the few useful things the FCC has done in the last 30 years or so, and they're extremely useful things to be able to avail of.

One other option (but good luck finding radios that support it): MURS, the Multi-Use Radio Service. It's a five-channel, two-watt, simplex-only service running in about the 150MHz band. Despite being licence-free it never really caught on in any big way, so is generally pretty uncrowded - but your chances of finding someone to relay a message in an emergency are pretty small. The signals typically cope better in rough terrain than FRS, but don't penetrate buildings, etc. as well. You can, however, connect an external antenna to it in order to improve transmission and reception. For more info, there's a pretty good FAQ here (http://www.provide.net/~prsg/murs_faq.htm).

[Mike in NJ]

I am thinking about taking the rear seat out of mine and adding a platfor so I store some extra stuff like tent and axle shafts etc..


Just a quick comment on that suggestion - for a real simple, quick platform:

. . . a few years back before yet another cross country trip I hit a bone yard and snagged an extra rear seat back. Strip all the upholstery off of it and cut a thin piece of plywood to match the shape on the backside, screw it on the frame (and some polyurethane to seal it), add a wooden collar on the under side to match the hump (or a couple of small legs on each side) and fold down to have a perfect fitting, sturdy flat floor - rear hatch to front seats. Plus a neat little storage bin underneath. - held a couple of axle shafts and other odds and ends with ease.

Need your real rear seat again? Just pull the locking lever, take out the platform and slot in the original seat back and cushions. Going on a trip? reverse the procedure. Easy, quick, and convenient.

Mike in NJ :patriot:

[IntrepidXJ]

excellent idea mike.....I have an extra rear back seat laying around, too!

[kndrewa]

yeah, thats a great idea for the swappable storage platform, thanks

[MrSimon]

Again, I apologize for reviving a dead thread, but its incredibly ironic that I ran across this thread tonight.

I spent the entire 45 minute ride to work this morning thinking about how cool it would be to turn my 87 MJ into an adventure rig. Here is the list I came up with.

Rebuilt 4.0 HO in place of the Renix
D44/30 with selectable ARB lockers
OBA with a tank large enough to run tools
4" lift with 32 M/Ts 4.56 gears
Heavy duty winch bumper and winch / heavy duty rear bumper with swing out tire carrier.(maybe rear winch too)
Rock sliders
Some good roof top and bumper mount lights
Heavy duty alternator
CB, GPS, and sat. radio for tunes
Gas and water cans mounted to the sides or rear.

And I'd have a bed cover similar to this:
http://www.lighttruckbiz.com/images/article/1186598071355_p1_15.jpg

All the tools/gear/parts/supplies could go in boxes and compartments underneath.

Then, maybe something like this could go on top of the cover to make a tent like shelter for sleeping.
http://www.autoenhance.com/Black_softopperup.jpg

http://www.autoenhance.com/black_softopper_down.jpg


Hey, I can always dream, right:yelclap:

[OverlandXJ]

Man, one trip out wheeling and you got the bug bad... :yelclap:

I like your plans, i considered an MJ before redoing my XJ awhile back.

You have a shortbed right? Might be a tad tight using the bed area as a sleeping quarters. Theres a product called a flippac that you might find interesting. www.flippac.com This is the same product used in the Earthromer XV-JP.

Another option could be a can-back, like in your second pic.

www.adventuretrailers.com There are some cool pics of Mario's MJ here, take a look.

[bigalpha]

www.adventuretrailers.com (http://www.adventuretrailers.com) There are some cool pics of Mario's MJ here, take a look.

I couldn't find the pics of his MJ. I"ve briefly seen it on other sites, it's pretty amazing.

[Big Bear]

Check out www.expeditionportal.com I have been learning alot from this site.

[Big Bear]

Check out www.expeditionportal.com I have been learning alot from this site.

Sorry Overland I know you are allready on the expedition portal alot. I just posted it up for others that a getting curious about building more of an expedition type vehicle and planning trips. I actually just found the Portal myself last week. I am currently in process of toning my Xj down a bit and making set up better for expedition runs. It will still be a more than capable crawler though. In fact I just ordered the last one peice design Hannibal Xj rack in the US. I just wanted to say how cool it is to see some XJ's being built for this purpose. Give some of those Toyota and Land cruiser guys something to think about. Sorry for hi-jacking your thread. I will go back to lurking now.

[OverlandXJ]

Sorry Overland I know you are allready on the expedition portal alot. I just posted it up for others that a getting curious about building more of an expedition type vehicle and planning trips. I actually just found the Portal myself last week. I am currently in process of toning my Xj down a bit and making set up better for expedition runs. It will still be a more than capable crawler though. In fact I just ordered the last one peice design Hannibal Xj rack in the US. I just wanted to say how cool it is to see some XJ's being built for this purpose. Give some of those Toyota and Land cruiser guys something to think about. Sorry for hi-jacking your thread. I will go back to lurking now.


Nothing wrong with mentioning EXPO, great site with some very experienced people.

Those Hannibal racks sure are nice, you'll have to post up one you get it mounted.

Please post as often as you like, no need to lurk. I'd like to see this board get a bit more active. I'll finally be camping (Thanksgiving) with my XJ for the 1st time in 1.5 years, looking forward to it and trying out some new stuff.

[Big Bear]

LOL, my Xj has sat in the garage of my new house for two years now. I am finally to a point now that I can get a front axle back under it. In the process I have decided to drop her down a bit and put 33's back on and make it a little more streetabe rig as well as focusing more on expidition type runs. With 33's, Dana 44's, hydro assist, and a Atlas 3.8:1 it will be a little over built. But there is nothing wrong with that.

[Handlebars]

I have done 27 days worth of Jeep touring this year. So far. My advice is to keep it simple and bring less stuff. This is as loaded down as my Cherokee ever gets, camping two up in unimproved backcountry sites:
http://www.fototime.com/3A5C189A72FD8C2/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/3A888F3E3331D1E/orig.jpg

Having a drawer helps things stay organized though.
http://www.fototime.com/CFADC109CDE4649/orig.jpg

When I am by myself it gets really easy. I just sleep in my hammock or on the ground if the weather is nice. If it is blowing or raining I sleep in the back.

[Big Bear]

I have done 27 days worth of Jeep touring this year. So far. My advice is to keep it simple and bring less stuff. This is as loaded down as my Cherokee ever gets, camping two up in unimproved backcountry sites:
http://www.fototime.com/3A5C189A72FD8C2/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/3A888F3E3331D1E/orig.jpg

Having a drawer helps things stay organized though.
http://www.fototime.com/CFADC109CDE4649/orig.jpg

When I am by myself it gets really easy. I just sleep in my hammock or on the ground if the weather is nice. If it is blowing or raining I sleep in the back.

Yeah I am not very good at keeping it simple though. I know the resoning, but I can't help wanting to build up a trailer and mounting roof top tent on it. What drawer set up is that ? It looks real nice.

[bigalpha]

I think a locker would be necessary for an adventure rig. Moreso than a lift.

[Big Bear]

I think a locker would be necessary for an adventure rig. Moreso than a lift.

Yes lockers I would say are a must. I would recomend selectable lockers. I currently have a Detroit in the rear and just ordered an ARB for the front. I will evetually be replacing the rear with an ARB as well. Selectable is a very good option for very slick conditions.

[bigalpha]

A 4" lift does you no good if your tire comes off the ground and you are running open/open

[rocknxj]

There are some good responses here so far. I like the idea of going moderate with the 31" tires, but I might opt for 33"s and MTs for those hard to reach places.

Other than that, I'd make room for a good woman and some decent red wine.

[bigalpha]

I'm running 31's with 4.5" lift. I know a lot of people have an obsession with filling up the space with a bigger tire, but my 31's really tuck up with no trimming.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3011/2912748185_9ffd203070.jpg

[Handlebars]

I'll cut you guys some slack because the thread title is "Building an Adventure XJ", not "How to Have an Adventure with my XJ". You can take years spending money and building your Jeep. You can debate till the end of time what works better for an "Adventure XJ". Or you can go and do some backcountry exploration yourselves and figure out what shortcomings your Cherokee has that needs to be addressed for your kind of exploring.

Check out the ultimate "Adventure XJ". Jared has explored more backcountry roads on 31's and open diffs than most of us will in a lifetime. Much of the time he is by himself.
http://www.fototime.com/01A72EAF1617458/orig.jpg

If your goal is to have adventures I would suggest to save your money, make sure your Jeep has all maintenance issues addressed and go out and do it. A stock Cherokee will take you to most of the places in America worth driving to.

An Adventure XJ becomes one thanks to the places it has taken you. It is not a garage bound money pit that keeps you too broke to actually take a vacation.

[Boatwrench]

I'll cut you guys some slack because the thread title is "Building an Adventure XJ", not "How to Have an Adventure with my XJ". You can take years spending money and building your Jeep. You can debate till the end of time what works better for an "Adventure XJ". Or you can go and do some backcountry exploration yourselves and figure out what shortcomings your Cherokee has that needs to be addressed for your kind of exploring.

Check out the ultimate "Adventure XJ". Jared has explored more backcountry roads on 31's and open diffs than most of us will in a lifetime. Much of the time he is by himself.
http://www.fototime.com/01A72EAF1617458/orig.jpg

If your goal is to have adventures I would suggest to save your money, make sure your Jeep has all maintenance issues addressed and go out and do it. A stock Cherokee will take you to most of the places in America worth driving to.

An Adventure XJ becomes one thanks to the places it has taken you. It is not a garage bound money pit that keeps you too broke to actually take a vacation.

Well said Alex.

[n1ywb]

My buddy has a Canvass Back on his Tacoma, he loves it.

Ditto CB + Ham. Actually I would strongly suggest getting your General ham license so you can get on HF. Then you really can reach somebody pretty much 24/7 no matter where in the heck you are. Or get a sat phone, although you'll be stuck if society crumbles while your out. Also a high-gain cell phone antenna isn't a bad idea, it can dramatically improve your coverage. As long as we're talking about comms, a signal mirror is also a really good idea. EPIRBs are illegal to use on-shore, but lots of people use them anyway. If you are dying in the wilderness it's better to get picked up and fined than left to die.

Focus on emergency situations first. First aid, survival, rescue.

As far as suspension and driveline its pretty much up to you and what kind of roads you want to tackle. I would avoid any mod that might decrease reliability.

I have a custom roof basket that runs almost the whole length and width of the roof, I can fit a ton of crap up there, and it's so strong I can jump on it.

If money were no object I'd get some kind of custom shaped stainless steel water tank and purification system. And I'd def pull out the back seats and convert that space into some sort of storage compartment.

I've seen oversized gas tanks for XJs, a 30 gal tank would really increase your range.

Check out what the Aussies do, they go long distances over hostile but not extraordinarily rugged terrain.

[bigalpha]

Speaking of increasing your fuel tank size, Go Jeep has a write-up about raising the fill tube and increasing the size of the tank.

[Big Bear]

I'll cut you guys some slack because the thread title is "Building an Adventure XJ", not "How to Have an Adventure with my XJ". You can take years spending money and building your Jeep. You can debate till the end of time what works better for an "Adventure XJ". Or you can go and do some backcountry exploration yourselves and figure out what shortcomings your Cherokee has that needs to be addressed for your kind of exploring.

Check out the ultimate "Adventure XJ". Jared has explored more backcountry roads on 31's and open diffs than most of us will in a lifetime. Much of the time he is by himself.
http://www.fototime.com/01A72EAF1617458/orig.jpg

If your goal is to have adventures I would suggest to save your money, make sure your Jeep has all maintenance issues addressed and go out and do it. A stock Cherokee will take you to most of the places in America worth driving to.

An Adventure XJ becomes one thanks to the places it has taken you. It is not a garage bound money pit that keeps you too broke to actually take a vacation.

I agree completely, I wasn't trying to turn this into a tech thread. I do enjoy modding my Jeep as well as using it. That being said there are few trails I have been on where I did not encounter or been with a completely stock 4x4. It really is all about getting out and having fun.

[bigalpha]

I agree completely, I wasn't trying to turn this into a tech thread. I do enjoy modding my Jeep as well as using it. That being said there are few trails I have been on where I did not encounter or been with a completely stock 4x4. It really is all about getting out and having fun.

Wait, isn't the idea of this thread to talk about mods and tech related to building an "adventure xj"?

[Big Bear]

Yes after reading the first post again I believe it is. The difference for me is I am not building a "Adventure XJ" from stock. I am trying to turn my existing crawler in to one. So I guess what I was really trying to say is that alot of the mods done on my rig are not ones that I would say are absolutely nessasary or even things I would do again. But I don't think having an over built drive train and a whole lot of armor is a bad thing. Personally if I where starting over I would focus more on safty provisions and modding the weak points on a stock Xj. No dout I would eventually install a quality lift with 31 to 33" tires and I would set up some kind of winching system, on board air, selectable lockers and GPS. I am sure of couse I would do other mods as time went on. I believe what Handlebars was trying to say is the best "Adventure XJ" is one that is being used and I think we can all agree on that. As far as "having a garage bound money pit that keeps you too broke to actually take a vacation". Well thats just stupid to assume to know so much about someone you don't know anything about.

[beakie]

As far as "having a garage bound money pit that keeps you too broke to actually take a vacation". Well thats just stupid to assume to know so much about someone you don't know anything about.

I don't think he was talking about anyone in specific, just seeing as some have XJ's sitting around much of the tie awaiting repair or modification... its a general assumption.

that being said, last year I took my XJ out for a winter camping session on my own to a site I found while out fishing with a buddy earlier in the year. Almost 2' of snow, without a locker/33's I wouldn't have made it, but getting there and not being able to get back safely makes no sense.

if your going somewhere and you need this vehicle to get there, ensure others know where your going, and can get to you "just in case". and give them a time to come looking for you if your not in contact with them by. the expedition is one thing, getting back safe and sound is another.

wheel what you have for now, learn what you need while your out there.
worry about crossing a bit of water = snorkel as next mod
worried about going into some mud = better tires or winch or lockers
no room in the back = roof rack or tire carrier or better storage solution inside

I learned on my trip that my XJ was great, but you go winter camping and you expect -5C... still pack for -30C cause it sucks when it dips that low and your wearing cold wet weather boots instead of mukluks!

[besthaticouldo]

this is pretty much exactly what im building my XJ for.

current i have a 3.5 rubicon express super ride with new leafs
bfg a/ts 31x10.50x15
HID conversion in headlights
hella 500s on front bumper
oem rear tire carrier
tow hooks
front skid
and a few other small mods


next on my list of things to do are:
aussie front locker
4.10s
auburn LSD with 29 spline conversion in rear to maintain daily driveability
a bit more protection (oem skid plates)
ajs bumpers and winch


i am doing research on tents and sleeping bags and etc and which ones to get.

for now i have only done day trips as i am not 100% comfortable being out over night with no CB or HAM or anything like that. but i will soon get there.

[bigalpha]

Sounds like you are going to have a pretty solid setup. I'd say for an Adventure rig, that's probably about as much as you'll need. Any more than that, and I think you'll just be adding weight w/o any real Adventure "improvement".

Hows that OEM tire carrier holding up to a 31" tire?

[besthaticouldo]

im running a 30 on it, because that the size spare i have. i intend on putting a 31 on it, idk how well it'll hold up. its heavy with the 30 and its a PITA to swing, and honestly im not 100% happy with it.

but i think i might switch to the AJs rear bumper with the gerry can on it.

[bigalpha]

Is is a PITA because it swings open, or because of the OEM design?

[besthaticouldo]

Is is a PITA because it swings open, or because of the OEM design?

oem design. it feels incredibly heavy. i mean i haven't ever seen or opened a different one in person. but this thing is a heavy mother to swing open.

and closing it it makes a whole bunch of noise. there has to be a better solution.

[bigalpha]

The custom bumper+tire carriers must be much nicer. I've never heard of anyone complain of those symptoms with aftermarket.

Is it all lubed up, or are the internals just clankety?

[besthaticouldo]

i havent really tried to lube it up. thats a good idea. maybe ill hit it with some when i get home.

its more when it latches its all clankety and loud. its also really heavy for my wife. she wont even swing it open.

the aftermarket ones have to be better.

[bigalpha]

Maybe when you get a good quality lube thrown on it, it'll swing easier and close nicer.

[besthaticouldo]

i was thinking that. i was also thinking about putting a washer or two on there to help it stay level. that might be something that could help.

i was told with a bigger tire to use washers to cause it to level out.

[bigalpha]

I heard that an OEM tire carrier can support at tire up to 31" with no problems.

However, having it level never hurts.

[besthaticouldo]

yea thats my thought.

i really wanna get the gears done cuz i imagine that will help with climbing mountains and stuff.

[bigalpha]

I think unless you are doing hard rock crawling, regearing may not be that big of a deal if you have lockers. I'm sure they'd help some, but may only be a minimal increase. May wanna ask around some and see what the consensus is. You sure would save a ton of $$ to put into other mods.

Oh, see if Kelty has any tents that suit your needs. I have a Kelty and it's badass.

[besthaticouldo]

I think unless you are doing hard rock crawling, regearing may not be that big of a deal if you have lockers. I'm sure they'd help some, but may only be a minimal increase. May wanna ask around some and see what the consensus is. You sure would save a ton of $$ to put into other mods.

Oh, see if Kelty has any tents that suit your needs. I have a Kelty and it's badass.


well i already have the rear gears, im just saving for lockers so i can do it all at once.

and thanks for kelty...thats the brand name i was looking for. lolz

[bigalpha]

Do you plan on going bigger tires, and doing rock crawling? If not, then bigger gears may be overkill. Just my .02.

Yeah, our Kelty is incredible. Would buy from again A+++++

[GSequoia]

Okay, so I got lazy and didn't read the whole thing...

Besty - The OEM carrier isn't really more trouble than at least a Custom 4x4. While the 4x4 can swing easier the OEM carrier has a MUCH easier latch. I'd just rock the OEM carrier if you're going to 31's, even 33's if the clearance doesn't bother you. Just take the hinges apart (big TORX screw acts as the pin), clean the up and lube them well, then use a fat washer on the outside to beef them up (search, it's out there).

[besthaticouldo]

Do you plan on going bigger tires, and doing rock crawling? If not, then bigger gears may be overkill. Just my .02.

Yeah, our Kelty is incredible. Would buy from again A+++++


well its hurting my mileage big time. i noticed it huge. im hoping gears will help with that.

i may go up to 32s and do a bit of trimming. thats partially why i want gears.

Okay, so I got lazy and didn't read the whole thing...

Besty - The OEM carrier isn't really more trouble than at least a Custom 4x4. While the 4x4 can swing easier the OEM carrier has a MUCH easier latch. I'd just rock the OEM carrier if you're going to 31's, even 33's if the clearance doesn't bother you. Just take the hinges apart (big TORX screw acts as the pin), clean the up and lube them well, then use a fat washer on the outside to beef them up (search, it's out there).

thanks G. thats what i had read. i think thats what ill do. hopefully itll make the latch a lot quieter. i need to make a bumpstop for the hatch so it doesnt ruin it.

[GSequoia]

thanks G. thats what i had read. i think thats what ill do. hopefully itll make the latch a lot quieter. i need to make a bumpstop for the hatch so it doesnt ruin it.

For the bumper check the yard, they were equipped with approximately 1" x 2" bumpers from the factory (that mated with the stud that should have a rubber bumper on it on the tire carrier).

As for the latch being noisy I never slammed it, I'd always close it by pulling the latch. I mainly did this because mine was noisy due to being a bit out of alignment, I just dealt with it as it didn't make much difference to me.

[besthaticouldo]

For the bumper check the yard, they were equipped with approximately 1" x 2" bumpers from the factory (that mated with the stud that should have a rubber bumper on it on the tire carrier).

As for the latch being noisy I never slammed it, I'd always close it by pulling the latch. I mainly did this because mine was noisy due to being a bit out of alignment, I just dealt with it as it didn't make much difference to me.

yea i think mine is a bit out of alignment.

i looked last time we were there, to no avail. i will have to look again when i go. but i think that i should be able to conjur something up to work.

[GSequoia]

i looked last time we were there, to no avail.

Make sure to look at Jeeps that don't have tire carriers. I've seen a lot of early XJs that originally had tire carriers that were missing them (either plucked or had fallen off somewhere in the years) that still had rubber bumpers.

[besthaticouldo]

Make sure to look at Jeeps that don't have tire carriers. I've seen a lot of early XJs that originally had tire carriers that were missing them (either plucked or had fallen off somewhere in the years) that still had rubber bumpers.


will do.

thanks bro!

i tried to find a gas tank skid but they pulled em all off.

[GSequoia]

They don't pull the skids in the Wilmington yards, they'll usually just puncture the tanks through the holes in the skids. I've also been seeing more and more skid equipped XJs in yards (but been too lazy to pull them and sell 'em!)

[besthaticouldo]

They don't pull the skids in the Wilmington yards, they'll usually just puncture the tanks through the holes in the skids. I've also been seeing more and more skid equipped XJs in yards (but been too lazy to pull them and sell 'em!)

we only went to the ecology here. there was nothing.

before you go next time could you send me a PM and maybe you pick up a gas skid and t-case skid, ill pay you for them and for your time. let me know if thats an option.


i think stock skids will be more then sufficient for what i wanna do. i already have tow hooks and the front and it did help when i went into the santa ana mountains...

[dick.breakey]

i love reviving old threads. well not really. but this is the purpose of my heep. so i thought id bring it back. ill be at 33" km2's, 3.5 re, locked rear. and thats prolly it. wont ever wheel/camp alone. so i dont feet a winch is necessary for a while. though it will be nice one day. the amenities will be different. kinda. gas cooker, tent cot, 0 degree mummy bag, food, emergency kit, first aid kit, couple changes of clothes, thermals. and some other odds and ends. ill also be running with no rear seat. i have no need for it. so ill be all storage in back. ill figure out if i want a roof rack sometime in the next couple months. just depends. but i love this thread, happens to be my favorite

[Sniggs]

Get ready to do some hacking on those fenders running 33s on a 3.5. You will also need to regear. I've been running 31's on a RE 3.5 inch lift for a few years now. Finally regeared to 4.10s and put ARB lockers front and rear - drives ENTIRELY different.

I too have the KM2s in 31s. Best tire I have owned yet for multiple surfaces.

[dick.breakey]

i plan on cuttin it up, dont worry about that. but im pretty sure for the wheelin i do(semi mild but frequent) the 3.55's will do just fine. eventually ill be doing a doubler though. just cause i can :)

[OverlandXJ]

Interesting re-reading through this thread... thought i'd bring it back for updated opinions and possibly new info.

Me personally, i'm about to start the teardown on my XJ and start a new project.. but it wont be an XJ. :o

[DrMoab]

Me personally, i'm about to start the teardown on my XJ and start a new project.. but it wont be an XJ. :o

Me too.

The Chrysler CEO announced that the 2012 JK's will have a 295 HP V6.

Soon as they will take orders I will be putting mine in for a desert tan, six speed Sahara.

[jakeWI]

Hey John, I hope you continue this thread with updates of your new build.

[OverlandXJ]

Me too.

The Chrysler CEO announced that the 2012 JK's will have a 295 HP V6.

Soon as they will take orders I will be putting mine in for a desert tan, six speed Sahara.

I thought you were waiting on the diesel? Cool either way, any plans for an AT Habitat?.. so sweet.

Hey John, I hope you continue this thread with updates of your new build.

I'll do a build thread...

[NW-ZJ-SCOTT]

Me too.

The Chrysler CEO announced that the 2012 JK's will have a 295 HP V6.

Soon as they will take orders I will be putting mine in for a desert tan, six speed Sahara.
your rig is so beautiful. please dont tear it apart.

infact.. name a price.. sometimes dreams come true:thumbup:

[DrMoab]

I thought you were waiting on the diesel? Cool either way, any plans for an AT Habitat?.. so sweet.

yeah that A/T habitat is cool as hell however I think we are about done sleeping in enclosures with soft sides. For some reason we can't go anywhere without the wind blowing 50 mph. I don't know if God hates me or if it's Global warming or maybe that God hates that I don't believe in global warming but I think we are going to sell the trailer and buy a teardrop.

[OverlandXJ]

You gonna have enough sleeping acreage for the family in a teardrop? Or maybe your considering the prototype shown at Expo?

Perhaps a hardsided offroad popup? I like some of the builds that have been seen lately. I think Stump mentioned he may be going that direction this time around.

[OverlandXJ]

infact.. name a price.. sometimes dreams come true:thumbup:


Fish on! :D

[DrMoab]

You gonna have enough sleeping acreage for the family in a teardrop? Or maybe your considering the prototype shown at Expo?

Perhaps a hardsided offroad popup? I like some of the builds that have been seen lately. I think Stump mentioned he may be going that direction this time around.

I'll be putting my tent on the roof. If the weather is good...no worries. If it's bad, at least we have a shelter out of the weather, even if we are on top of each other.

[Fish'nCarz]

Don't know if this has already been discussed, but it would be a cool way to call work and tell them I'll be delayed due to car trouble!

http://shop.delorme.com/OA_HTML/DELibeCCtdItemDetail.jsp?item=30786&section=10741

[GSequoia]

The Spot COnnect does interest me and I may break down and get one eventually. Until then I get by wiht my old Spot v. 1. It may not have many bells and whistles but it works.

[DrMoab]

The Spot COnnect does interest me and I may break down and get one eventually. Until then I get by wiht my old Spot v. 1. It may not have many bells and whistles but it works.

After using mine for a few weeks I have to say the difference is night and day and so so so worth the money.

The acquisition times are almost instantaneous. The message send times are almost instantaneous and as I've said before, the fact that you can type a message out saying "Im here and I need three lug nuts" or "I'm here and I need a lower radiator hose" makes the whole thing worth it.

[Fish'nCarz]

This is an old Toyota FJ55, but still cool and full of ideas!

http://www.vintageoffroad.com/viewvehicle.cfm?id=445

[flingshot]

This is an old Toyota FJ55, but still cool and full of ideas!

http://www.vintageoffroad.com/viewvehicle.cfm?id=445

I'm sorry, did you say something? I was looking at your avatar.

[OverlandXJ]

http://www.vintageoffroad.com/viewvehicle.cfm?id=445


Buyer beware... this guy has a VERY bad reputation within the Land Cruiser community.

[Fish'nCarz]

Oh Hell, I can't afford his prices! I'm just pulling ideas.

[GSequoia]

This is an old Toyota FJ55, but still cool and full of ideas!

http://www.vintageoffroad.com/viewvehicle.cfm?id=445

Neat looking but it looks like a POS with a bunch of stuff bolted to it to make it look dependable. Something about it just strikes me wrong.