Western Trek (July 2007) [Archive] - NAXJA Forums -::- North American XJ Association

IntrepidXJ

June 21st, 2007, 13:17

OK, I guess this new forum is as good of place as any to put up some info about my upcoming trip. First of all, I bought a 2000 XJ back in Feb, that I am now working my ass off to get it ready for this trip.....so I'm hoping it will be ready in time ;) I will be leaving from work on July 19th......so I better get my ass moving.

Anyways, you may look at the following trip and think I have scheduled way too much for the time I have.....and perhaps I have......but I am good at covering a lot of ground, plus I would rather over-plan for the trip and maybe not quite get everywhere if I do run short on time. Here's a brief overview of the areas I plan on hitting up......I have planned the route in more detail, but will leave those out.

Once I take the drive from Illinois to Colorado, I plan on keeping off the pavement as much as possible. The plan is to start out at the Sawatch Mountain Range, and hit up some of the more popular trails in that area for the first weekend. I'm supposed to meet up with DJ and Formatt that weekend. From there I will be meeting up with the Colorado Chapter in the San Juans for a few days at ColoradoFest. I won't be able to stay too long though, since I need to be in Grand Junction for a few days to attend the UFWDA Conference to represent NAXJA.

Even though I know it's going to be hot (at least I have working AC), I can't be that close to Moab and not stop by for a day or two. I'm planning on taking the back roads in from Gateway, CO through the La Sals. From there I'm going to shoot up the San Rafael Swell and 9 Mile Canyon area to the Unitas, where it should be a little cooler ;) (thanks to xjblue for some info on this area)

Then I plan on heading over to the Wind River Range in WY, over to check out Devil's Tower, and then exploring the Black Hills NF over to Deadwood.

Lastly, on my way back home, I'm going to drive through Badlands NP.

The trip is going to be about 2.5 weeks long. Unlike previous trips I have taken, I am not looking for hardcore rock-crawling, mostly just nice scenic drives and camping. Lots of photography, too :)

Anyways, like I said, I got my route pretty much down, but if any of you have any suggestions for me, I'm always open to ideas.....and if I don;t use them this trip, I'll definitely keep them listed for future trips :)

DaJudge

June 21st, 2007, 13:49

Sounds like a good plan to me! (I am one for driving like mad for days though!)

Look forward to hearing how your trip went!

IntrepidXJ

June 21st, 2007, 13:50

(I am one for driving like mad for days though!)

me too ;)

mingo

June 21st, 2007, 13:55

I need to be in Grand Junction for a few days to attend the UFWDA Conference to represent NAXJA.

Give me a call when your in GJ, I'll buy you a beer
970-270-5958 Tracy
:cheers:

IntrepidXJ

June 21st, 2007, 14:31

Give me a call when your in GJ, I'll buy you a beer
970-270-5958 Tracy
:cheers:

if i have time, i definately will.....i'm sure i'll be meeting up with Wally while I am there, too

OverlandXJ

June 21st, 2007, 14:46

Sounds like a blast! Too bad our dates wont allow us to meet up out west.

Have you been to the Badlands before? I could post some pics later if you'd like.

IntrepidXJ

June 21st, 2007, 14:54

Have you been to the Badlands before? I could post some pics later if you'd like.

no i haven't......and originally i wasn't planning on going their either......but it's right on my way home, so I would be stupid not to drive through at least.

pictures would be good :)

OverlandXJ

June 21st, 2007, 17:39

Badlands NP

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/Badlands%2005/HPIM1118.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/Badlands%2005/HPIM1121.jpg

Custer NP

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/Badlands%2005/HPIM1168.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/Badlands%2005/HPIM1164.jpg

Buffalo Gap NGL

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/Badlands%2005/HPIM1140.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/Badlands%2005/HPIM1139.jpg

And watch out for the hostiles...

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/Badlands%2005/HPIM1198.jpg

IntrepidXJ

June 21st, 2007, 18:01

great pics....thanks :)

HaleYes

June 21st, 2007, 21:55

Wow Randy!
You got me jelous for sure. I'd love to take a trip like that. Oh, to be single again......:D I really hope to get out there myself sometime.

I'd tell you to take lots of pics but, we all know that won't be necessary since you and your camera get along so well.

Very nice pics John!

Hale

XJ_ranger

June 22nd, 2007, 08:25

No more rubicon?

Here is a 6:00am sunrise in north eastern Wyoming from about 1 month ago... I snaped this shot on the way to the baja competition, because the sun was coming up, and we still hadnt stopped driving...
http://www.opiebennett.com/MiniBaja/CSUSMiniBajaCompetitionSDSM2007/stp81135.jpg

IntrepidXJ

June 22nd, 2007, 08:43

No more rubicon?

i wish....but it just didn't work out this year :(

if i could get a month off from work, then i would definately do it....but i can't afford that

Stumpalump

June 22nd, 2007, 12:42

The badlands has a great hiking trail called the Notch trail. Not long but you will need a strech after the driving. Devils Tower has a inner loop hiking trail which is about a mile around and an outer loop trail that is about 3 miles, hardly used and well worth it also. You can do everthing you need to do at devils tower in a couple of hours if you are planning a short stay. I'm sure you will include Mt.Rushmore. Take 16 south just out of the park till you get to the top. You will go thru some cool 1 lane tunnles and have great views of Mt. Rushmore. Watch out for toataly insane scateboarders comming down that road and remember to honk as you enter the short tunnles. Your gonna have a blast!

karstic

June 22nd, 2007, 13:42

IntrepidXJ

June 22nd, 2007, 13:58

I want a track log when you get back

don't worry, i'm planning on keeping one.....this will actually be my first long trip I'll be taking with a GPS :)

IntrepidXJ

June 26th, 2007, 19:52

final planning, so I can cover as much ground as possible ;)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/84269-1/IMG_4212.JPG

kndrewa

July 5th, 2007, 13:31

IntrepidXJ

July 5th, 2007, 13:35

you have to at least give us a glimpse of what youre doing for your build up.

this has been 'top secret' for way too long!

plus, its only like a week away, so i know your xj is getting close...

pictures please!!!

i haven't been keeping my build top secret.....just check out my website for updates ;) www.myxj.net

lots of pics there :)

.....and I'm supposed to leave 2 weeks from today.....hopefully my XJ will be ready in time!

IntrepidXJ

July 10th, 2007, 08:54

well, it's getting closer to being ready for the trip.....few bugs to work out and a few misc items to install still.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d65/rlngstrt/2000JeepCherokeeSport001-1.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d65/rlngstrt/2000JeepCherokeeSport004-1.jpg

....sure hope it's ready.....

DaJudge

July 10th, 2007, 09:29

Randy,

Can you give us some specs? I am interested in the lift you chose axles, tire size, etc. Just wondering what you picked for the 'epedition' rig.

Glen

IntrepidXJ

July 10th, 2007, 09:34

Can you give us some specs? I am interested in the lift you chose axles, tire size, etc. Just wondering what you picked for the 'epedition' rig.

As far as specs....it ended up turning out a little taller than I originally planned (I tried to use the stock shackles, but that didn't work out......I will probably drop it down another 3/4" or 1" in the near future).

32x11.5x15 Maxxis Bighorns
Approx 5" lift (RE springs, JKS arms)
HP D30 Swapped in with 4.56 and an Aussie
8.25 with 4.56, a NoSlip and ZJ Discs
Kevin's Trackbar Conversion
SYE & 2Lo
Alloy USA Shafts
Currie Steering
OME Shocks
C4x4 Rear Bumper/Tire Carrier
Protofab Bumper
Warn M8000

etc ..... etc ......

I had quite a few of those parts laying around from my 92 XJ.......so I didn't have to buy all of that stuff at once ;)

DaJudge

July 10th, 2007, 09:47

That is very similar to mine.

I ended up with about 5" of lift as well. It was a compromise because I really wanted to use BOR's leafs and the shortest ones he sells are 4", combined with the TNT shackles I ended up with 5". So far it has worked well.

Are you going to scrap the '92 or keep it for the rocks?

EDIT: It looks good by the way!

IntrepidXJ

July 10th, 2007, 09:49

Are you going to scrap the '92 or keep it for the rocks?

keeping it for the rocks and more extreme trails :D

kndrewa

July 10th, 2007, 11:18

randy, your rig looks great.
i will post a recent picture of my 'expedition rig'

...what you have done in the past few months with your rig is pretty much the lifetime goal for mine, with a few differences here and there...

kndrewa

July 10th, 2007, 11:20

p.s. any pictures of the swing out?

and what rear leafs are they in particular?

thanks!

IntrepidXJ

July 10th, 2007, 11:38

p.s. any pictures of the swing out?

and what rear leafs are they in particular?

same c4x4 I used to have on my 92 before I took it off....here's a pic with my old tires

http://myxj.net/g2/d/60021-2/IMG_3287.JPG

anything in particular you wanted to see about it?

RE 4.5" leafs. planned on using the stock shackles, but that didn't work out, so I stole the RE shackles off my 92 for now. gonna change those out to MJ shackles once they get here. since I know I'm going to be carrying a lot of gear, I did want the back to sit a little higher than the front, too.

kndrewa

July 10th, 2007, 13:32

you set me up with what i wanted to see, or at least an approximation...

...i run 32" bfg mud terrains, and will probably run them again when these die.

i pretended i thought i could make a swing out carrier, but after researching, i think i had better just buy one. i am a beginer fabricator.. ..but consider myself mechanically inclined.

i wanted to see how much rear window real estate was taken by your carrier.

also:

i am curious why you couldnt run your stock shackles.. ..they were just too short to reach the rear spring eye?

thanks!

IntrepidXJ

July 10th, 2007, 13:33

i am curious why you couldnt run your stock shackles.. ..they were just too short to reach the rear spring eye?

yes, that was my initial problem....but then I realized they just wouldn;t allow the movement I was looking for. the MJ shackles should work out for me, though

kndrewa

July 10th, 2007, 13:56

city life = parking tickets
http://www.kndrewa.com/jeep/tix.jpg
green acres = no parking tickets
http://www.kndrewa.com/jeep/blueflowers.jpg

i am satisfied with my height and the capabilities that come along with it; i am about as high as i can go without a SYE..

..but i would sure love to get rid of the 1.5 " blocks in the back, so thats why I asked about your springs/shackle situation.

as it is, I have aal from a pro comp 3 " lift.

as much as people downplay the lift, i have found the front control arms and coils provide a nice ride.

I have considered acos and 4 " springs to get a bit more height, but im not sure what that would do to me in terms of dw, which i have none of now.

my stock gears 3.55 are nice at highway speeds, as i am in the low end of my gear cruising at 70/75, and a drop of the pedal gives me the passing rpms i need; and still low enough for my 32s on the trail

kndrewa

July 10th, 2007, 15:53

my stock gears 3.55 are nice at highway speeds ... and still low enough for my 32s on the trail

my point is that i think you have done what i want to do, and i wanted to show you that im on my way.. ; )

..was not to try to show off or steal your thread, i cant wait for the trip reports!

Prepmech

July 10th, 2007, 20:11

Looks awesome Randy, cant wait to see pics from the trip!

Are you going to be sleeping in the XJ, camping, or hotels?

How about navigation?

I love everything you've done with the new rig and like your idea of not always trying to run the most extreme trails, and actually enjoy the sights when you wheel. It would be nice to put some local weekend "adventures" together that are less wheeling and more hiking, camping, maybe even geocaching. There are tons of neat places to go nearby, it may give those who can't make the trip to the offroad parks a chance to get more involved in NAXJA.

IntrepidXJ

July 10th, 2007, 20:56

Are you going to be sleeping in the XJ, camping, or hotels?

How about navigation?

Will be sleeping in the XJ and tent camping mostly.

Got my GPS and tons of maps and books for the trip :thumbup:

IntrepidXJ

July 10th, 2007, 20:57

I love everything you've done with the new rig and like your idea of not always trying to run the most extreme trails, and actually enjoy the sights when you wheel. It would be nice to put some local weekend "adventures" together that are less wheeling and more hiking, camping, maybe even geocaching. There are tons of neat places to go nearby, it may give those who can't make the trip to the offroad parks a chance to get more involved in NAXJA.

I'm planning on a fall colors run down to Shawnee NF at the end of Oct or beginning of Nov.

Prepmech

July 10th, 2007, 21:24

I'm planning on a fall colors run down to Shawnee NF at the end of Oct or beginning of Nov.

Awesome! I went to school down there, lots of cool stuff to see. Count me in!

HaleYes

July 10th, 2007, 21:36

Awesome! I went to school down there, lots of cool stuff to see. Count me in!

Fer shure.

I'd love to make that run.

The SIJA guys had a run down there last weekend. Looks like a great time. Nothing really super difficult and some beautiful scenery.

Hale

IntrepidXJ

July 12th, 2007, 08:26

leaving 1 week from today!

DaJudge

July 12th, 2007, 08:30

leaving 1 week from today!

How's the prep coming? Xj done to your satisfaction?

IntrepidXJ

July 12th, 2007, 08:33

How's the prep coming? Xj done to your satisfaction?

Prep is coming along.....of course it feels like everything has been left until the last minute, though :laugh:

XJ is working pretty well for me......there's a few more things I need to finish over the next couple nights and this weekend, but I should have no problems getting them done

IntrepidXJ

July 17th, 2007, 15:06

leaving in 2 days.....should be ready :)

jmaxj

July 17th, 2007, 15:16

hey randy when you get into town we should hook up get food drink say hi something

IntrepidXJ

July 17th, 2007, 15:17

hey randy when you get into town we should hook up get food drink say hi something

i was planning on hitting the Brewery one night :)

jmaxj

July 17th, 2007, 15:19

i was planning on hitting the Brewery one night :)
definentally sounds good to me.

IntrepidXJ

July 17th, 2007, 15:21

definentally sounds good to me.

cool....i got your pm....looks like i sent you one at the same time

OverlandXJ

July 19th, 2007, 06:51

Have a great time dude! I'll be awaiting pics...

IntrepidXJ

July 19th, 2007, 07:44

Have a great time dude! I'll be awaiting pics...

thanks.....my Jeep is all loaded up sitting in the parking lot here at work.....ready to leave this afternoon when I decide to sneak out of here ;)

DaJudge

July 19th, 2007, 09:00

Randy,

Have fun! Look forward to hearing how your trip went!

Glen

IntrepidXJ

July 19th, 2007, 09:06

BTW- for anyone interested, I'm going to try to post some updates and pictures from the road.......if I do have a chance, they are probably only going to get posted on my website.....so make sure to check it out here: http://myxj.net/blog/

DrMoab

July 19th, 2007, 10:04

Have fun Randy, you won't be far from us, you should swing in and say hi.

IntrepidXJ

July 19th, 2007, 10:05

Have fun Randy, you won't be far from us, you should swing in and say hi.

If I have time, I'll see about it. I got your number :p

DrMoab

July 19th, 2007, 10:08

If I have time, I'll see about it. I got your number :p
I'll buy you a nice dinner.

kndrewa

July 19th, 2007, 10:55

a glimpse of the rig fully loaded before you depart?

best of luck, be safe, and have a great time!

-andy

IntrepidXJ

July 19th, 2007, 11:39

a glimpse of the rig fully loaded before you depart?

best of luck, be safe, and have a great time!

-andy

pics on my camera in the Jeep.....so it will have to wait for later. sorry!

IntrepidXJ

July 19th, 2007, 12:21

off to a meeting and then i am out of here.....see you guys next month!

XJ_ranger

July 19th, 2007, 13:58

Drive safe man. Gimme a call if you need anything...:callme:

IntrepidXJ

July 20th, 2007, 22:33

Why was it almost not? Well, when I got close to the Nebraska border, not only was my Jeep running very warn and almost overheating, but my transmission wasn't shifting properly.......

I decided to stop and get dinner at Country Kitchen and then turn around and head home. Luckily after dinner I scanned my check engine codes and was able to clear it causing the shifting problem to go away. Then I decided to make it to Denver by morning in order to fix the overheating problem. During the night I was able to drive with no issues since it was cool out, but as soon as it warmed up, I had to turn the heat on to keep the vehicle cool enough. I ended up only sleeping 1.5 hours last night (as still haven;t got any more than that), making it to Denver by 9am and replacing my whole cooling system (with a big help from Mark) by around 3pm. I was still able to stop at Sonic for dinner and make it to the Sawatch Range by 5pm so I could run a trail or two and keep on schedule!

What a day!

Anyways, here I am getting ready to head to bed at Chalk Creek campground in Nathrop.....so I can explore some more tomorrow (plus make up for my lack of sleep last night). It feels great to be back in Colorado again!

But I will leave you with a couple of pictures I have taken so far. Enjoy :)

Fixing my Jeep in Denver:

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85292-1/IMG_4765.JPG

Sevenmile Road:

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85114-1/IMG_4786.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85148-1/IMG_4803.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85167-1/IMG_4813.JPG

Now I am off to bed.....goodnight!

OverlandXJ

July 20th, 2007, 22:39

WOW...when you said "turn around and head home" my heart stopped!

Glad your able to fix and keep running west. Love the pic of sevenmile. If you get anywhere near Telluride airport and have a few hours hit last dollar hwy...nice scenic run.

Edit;..Nighty Night..

kndrewa

July 20th, 2007, 23:38

nothing like a little excitement to get you started..
..glad you got her fixed, and glad you are in the mountains.

a single nights rest in that fresh air will cure any ailment.
in my book, one night sleeping in the mountains is more peaceful and rejuvinating than a weeks worth of city sleep.

awesome!

keep up the good work.

IntrepidXJ

July 21st, 2007, 19:34

Day 3.....just some pics for now.

St Elmo
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85355-1/IMG_4873.JPG

Hancock Pass
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85358-1/IMG_4889.JPG

Hancock Lake Rd
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85360-1/IMG_4946.JPG

Alpine Tunnel Road
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85362-1/IMG_4990.JPG

Alpine Tunnel
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85364-1/IMG_5033.JPG

Cumberland Pass
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85366-1/IMG_5073.JPG

Tincup
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85368-1/IMG_5097.JPG

Mary Murphy Mine
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85370-1/IMG_5162.JPG

Pomeroy Lake
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85372-1/IMG_5193.JPG

Iron Chest
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85374-1/IMG_5209.JPG

Tomorrow I make my way to Silverton.

IntrepidXJ

July 24th, 2007, 20:55

Day 4 in Pictures

Headed from Monarch, CO over to Silverton almost never hitting pavement on Sunday.

Old Monarch Pass
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85376-1/IMG_5263.JPG

Middle Quartz Creek
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85378-1/IMG_5304.JPG

Pitkin
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85380-1/IMG_5318.JPG

Traffic on Los Pinos Pass
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85382-1/IMG_5358.JPG

Los Pinos Pass
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85384-1/IMG_5381.JPG

Cunningham Gulch
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85386-1/IMG_5480.JPG

Stony Pass
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85388-1/IMG_5574.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85390-1/IMG_5584.JPG

Silverton
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85392-1/IMG_5614.JPG

jmaxj

July 24th, 2007, 21:24

nice pics randy, looks like your getting closer

IntrepidXJ

July 24th, 2007, 21:39

nice pics randy, looks like your getting closer

In Grand Junction right now :)

IntrepidXJ

July 24th, 2007, 21:39

Wow! That's all I can say about the San Juans......I have seen thousands of pictures opf the area over the years, and none of them do this place any justice....not even any I took. You really have to go there to get the full experience......the scenery is just amazing! Anyways, I will leave you with a few pictures from Monday now.

From Engineer Pass

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85395-1/IMG_5770.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85398-1/IMG_5782.JPG

Whitmore Falls

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85400-1/IMG_5830.JPG

Carson City along Wager Gulch

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85402-1/IMG_5890.JPG

From Cinnamon Pass

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85404-1/IMG_5951.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85406-1/IMG_5983.JPG

Animas Forks

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85408-1/IMG_6010.JPG

Placer Gulch

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85410-1/IMG_6065.JPG

Lake Como from California Pass

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85412-1/IMG_6116.JPG

Corkscrew Pass

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85414-1/IMG_6180.JPG

jmaxj

July 24th, 2007, 21:43

now your really making me want to go back there havn't been up there in years

IntrepidXJ

July 24th, 2007, 22:09

Well, my original plan for today was to take Ophir Pass over to Telluride and then take Imogene back into Ouray before heading up to Grand Junction......unfortunately a big storm in Telluride changed my plans last night. When I got to the top of Ophir, I found a road closed sign, so I headed over to Black Bear....again, another road closed sign. Finally I headed over to Imogene from Ouray and found a ranger putting up another road closed sign.......apparently they had some bad storms and a few mudslides that closed the trails on the Telluride side. I did take Imogene to the top and back, though.

After getting out of Ouray I headed up to Grand Junction over the Uncompahgre Plateau.

Here's some pics from the day.

Ophir Pass
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85417-1/IMG_6236.JPG

Yankee Boy
http://myxj.net/g2/d/85420-1/IMG_6275.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85422-1/IMG_6281.JPG

What I found at Imogene

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85430-1/IMG_6394.JPG

Imogene

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85424-1/IMG_6331.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85426-1/IMG_6339.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85428-1/IMG_6357.JPG

Back to some red rocks near Montrose

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85432-1/IMG_6416.JPG

Heading down into Jack's Canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85434-1/IMG_6527.JPG

Now I'm going to be in Grand Junction for a few days attending the UFWDA annual meeting....so I'm not sure if I'll be able to get on any trails again until Friday.....but I'm going to try ;)

DrMoab

July 24th, 2007, 22:53

Hey Randy, How is the fear of heights thing going?

Nanette just brought it up. Are you hanging in there ok?

IntrepidXJ

July 25th, 2007, 10:31

Hey Randy, How is the fear of heights thing going?

Nanette just brought it up. Are you hanging in there ok?

It's really weird......nothing has bothered me this trip?? It's like my fear went away.....

That's good for me :)

jmaxj

July 25th, 2007, 11:07

Hey Randy, How is the fear of heights thing going?

Nanette just brought it up. Are you hanging in there ok?
i've noticed that in most his pictures the cliff is on the passenger side.

IntrepidXJ

July 25th, 2007, 14:37

i've noticed that in most his pictures the cliff is on the passenger side.

i had the cliffs on my driver's side, too! :D

i was actually ready to do Black Bear, but it was closed. If I have time in Moab, I may attempt Moab Rim again ;)

DrMoab

July 25th, 2007, 20:51

IntrepidXJ

July 25th, 2007, 21:52

Thats great to hear Randy.

In our sport I would imagine it would really suck to have a fear like that.

I will never forget Kane Creek

Me---"Randy if you look off the side there you can see an old jeep"

Randy---" I'm NOT LOOKING DOWN!!!!"

yeah, it's really weird that it just kinda went away :huh: but i'm not complaining

:party:

IntrepidXJ

July 25th, 2007, 21:59

Well, day 7 has come and gone. Unfortunately, I was stuck in a UFWDA meeting most of the day. However, this evening, I did manage to get out to the Grand Junction desert and get a few pics of the Book Cliffs.

Book Cliffs in the background with a nasty storm rolling in

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85437-1/IMG_6555.JPG

At the end of 27.25 road

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85440-1/IMG_6578.JPG

Sun is setting, storm is rolling in and high winds are kicking up some dust

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85442-1/IMG_6593.JPG

More meeting tomorrow....

jmaxj

July 26th, 2007, 01:03

Thats great to hear Randy.

In our sport I would imagine it would really suck to have a fear like that.

I will never forget Kane Creek

Me---"Randy if you look off the side there you can see an old jeep"

Randy---" I'm NOT LOOKING DOWN!!!!"
ya know i remember a similar thing

me---wanna back down and yank bryon off the rock

randy---it's ok you can do it!!!

CanMan

July 26th, 2007, 01:16

Wow! Great pics Randy. Thanks for sharing, and Im looking foward to more!

IntrepidXJ

July 26th, 2007, 21:53

Day 8

Again, I had a meeting that lasted most of the day, but was still able to squeeze in a little bit of wheeling afterwards.

Today I ended up heading out to Bangs Canyon (which is right by Billings canyon). After that, I quickly ran out to 21 Road and ran the easier section Wally and I skipped last year. Here's some pics:

Looking back towards Junction

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85445-1/IMG_6606.JPG

Heading down into Bangs canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85448-1/IMG_6671.JPG

Posing rock at the top of the other side of the canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85450-1/IMG_6714.JPG

Looking back at the ridge that took me down into the canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85452-1/IMG_6718.JPG

Storm rolling in

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85454-1/IMG_6729.JPG

21 Road into the Book Cliffs

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85456-1/IMG_6745.JPG

A little crawling on 21 Road

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85458-1/IMG_6758.JPG

Tomorrow I head back into Silverton for the final day of COfest.

IntrepidXJ

July 28th, 2007, 21:49

Started out the day with a little drive through the CO National Monument to get to Rattlesnake Canyon

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85461-1/IMG_6787.JPG

Looking down into Rattlesnake Canyon

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85464-1/IMG_6851.JPG

Then I headed over to Cimarron and took Owl Creek pass back towards Ouray

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85466-1/IMG_6887.JPG

Chimney Rock

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85468-1/IMG_6915.JPG

Black Bear was still closed and the fact that it rained all night didn't help either. So I guess I will have to run it another time.

IntrepidXJ

July 28th, 2007, 21:49

BTW- Derek.....I left you a voicemail earlier today.

kndrewa

July 29th, 2007, 07:41

great imagery..

..making me homesick for wyoming!

IntrepidXJ

July 29th, 2007, 15:46

Well, I had been in Colorado for over a week, so it was time to head out. Yesterday I left Silverton and headed over Ophir pass (and was able to get all the way across this time).

The side of Ophir I missed the first time

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85471-1/IMG_6964.JPG

After making it across, I headed for Gateway, CO where I entered John Brown Canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85474-1/IMG_6991.JPG

From there I took the Castleton-Gateway Road towards Castleton......back side of the La Sals (If you consider the front side from Moab)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85476-1/IMG_7017.JPG

View from the top of Polar Mesa (much better in person)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85478-1/IMG_7048.JPG

Then I took Thompson Canyon to Onion Creek

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85480-1/IMG_7115.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85482-1/IMG_7136.JPG

Took the short side trip to Fisher Towers

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85484-1/IMG_7159.JPG

Gassede up in Moab and hit La Sal Pass. It was pretty tight until you got over the pass. There was also this talus slope

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85486-1/IMG_7204.JPG

Mt Peale at the pass

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85488-1/IMG_7210.JPG

Looped around and took Geyser Pass back....view from the top

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85490-1/IMG_7231.JPG

Finally, I went up and down the first section of Moab Rim

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85492-1/IMG_7246.JPG

IntrepidXJ

July 29th, 2007, 16:33

Shorter day today for me. Have a few things I need to take care of on the Jeep once it cools down.

Anyways, I started the day heading over Hurrah Pass

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85496-1/IMG_7284.JPG

Then went out to Chicken Corners

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85499-1/IMG_7331.JPG

From there I headed over to Lockhard Basin, which is very difficult to find the start of. Once I found it, I headed up a few miles into the canyon, but decided to turn around as I decided I really didn;t want to run a trail that long today.

So instead, I headed over to Shafer trail. Overlooking the Colorado

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85501-1/IMG_7413.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85503-1/IMG_7424.JPG

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85505-1/IMG_7438.JPG

Looking back at the trail (and switchbacks)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85507-1/IMG_7457.JPG

DrMoab

July 29th, 2007, 16:58

Its a good thing you changed your mind on Lockheart basin. Its crazy to try that trail alone, in the heat. Besides its a trail that really should be run in two days. It's a lot longer in person then it looks on a map.

IntrepidXJ

July 29th, 2007, 17:08

kndrewa

July 29th, 2007, 21:23

the pictures are great... ..too much for one trip?

you really have created a monster...

; )

JoesXJ

July 29th, 2007, 22:17

how much you want to charge to be a guide someday!! LOL j/k

Great pics!

IntrepidXJ

July 30th, 2007, 09:30

Little snag. The brand new waterpump I installed last Friday with Mark is now leaking from the weap hole!

Taking care of that this morning....

OverlandXJ

July 30th, 2007, 09:35

Awesome updates Randy.

IntrepidXJ

July 30th, 2007, 09:38

..too much for one trip?

i thought it might have been when i made my original plans.....but what I am finding out is that even with my cooling system snags, I have still been able to do more than I planned.

87manche

July 30th, 2007, 10:51

Thats great to hear Randy.

In our sport I would imagine it would really suck to have a fear like that.

I will never forget Kane Creek

Me---"Randy if you look off the side there you can see an old jeep"

Randy---" I'm NOT LOOKING DOWN!!!!"

it is a bit weird, I'm incredibly afraid of heights, doing the bypass on guardrail was interesting.

IntrepidXJ

July 30th, 2007, 20:05

Well, today I started out by finding out that the water pump that I installed last Friday has gone bad already.......was leaking from the weep hole pretty badly. So I got a later start today becuase I had to take care of that.

Started out on Spring Canyon Bottom....nice overhang on the shelf road here

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85510-1/IMG_7502.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85513-1/IMG_7512.JPG

Then I headed down Hey Joe Canyon......but it was taking me too long and I needed to get to Green River, so I did not finish it this time.

A little overgrown

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85515-1/IMG_7525.JPG

Where are those limb risers when you need them!

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85517-1/IMG_7545.JPG

After heading back out, I went to check out the Dellenbaugh Tunnel......unfortunately, I could not find it (The tunnel that is, I went to the end of the trail)....and I was in a hurry......so I'll have to look again next time.

Tombstone Rock

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85519-1/IMG_7574.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85521-1/IMG_7592.JPG

On my way back from the tunnel, I managed to find a nice rock that wanted to dent my wheel pretty badly....

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85523-1/IMG_7597.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85525-1/IMG_7603.JPG

Nothing like changing a tire in the middle of the desert with no shade ;)

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85527-1/IMG_7604.JPG

I did manage to pound out the dent and fill the tire with air...and it seems to be holding. It should work OK as a spare for now, until I can replace the wheel when I get home

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85529-1/IMG_7608.JPG

After that setback, I headed up Rainbow Terrace

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85531-1/IMG_7616.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85533-1/IMG_7619.JPG

Finally, I was originally planning on taking the Crystal Geyser trail into Green River, but because of my delays and because I was worried about my fuel level, I decided to head out on Ruby Ranch Road and hit up I-70 to take to Green River.....which looked a lot like this

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85535-1/IMG_7651.JPG

ILLXJ

July 30th, 2007, 21:23

I-70 sure has changed since I was out there last.:rof::doh: Very nice pics. JIM.

jmaxj

July 30th, 2007, 22:34

randy, did you see the antelope herd that has been hanging out in that area, there is a few nice bucks in there.

btw: great to see you again and have a bite with ya hope you ride back home goes good

IntrepidXJ

July 31st, 2007, 06:13

randy, did you see the antelope herd that has been hanging out in that area, there is a few nice bucks in there.

no i didn;t see the herd.......but i did see a lot of tracks in the area

IntrepidXJ

July 31st, 2007, 18:55

Started out today heading into the San Rafael Swell via I-70.

Coming up on the reef with the moon above (it's there if you look closely)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85538-1/IMG_7665.JPG

Made my way to Eagle Canyon......going under I-70....just enough room ;)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85541-1/IMG_7676.JPG

Under I-70 again....this time in the canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85543-1/IMG_7719.JPG

Then I swung by Swasey's Cabin

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85545-1/IMG_7765.JPG

Good place to fuel up again

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85547-1/IMG_7770.JPG

Bottleneck Peak

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85549-1/IMG_7886.JPG

Old suspension bridge over the San Rafael river

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85551-1/IMG_7898.JPG

Stopped and saw some pictographs

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85553-1/IMG_7909.JPG

Utah's Little Grand Canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85555-1/IMG_7936.JPG

A section of the old Spanish Trail

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85557-1/IMG_7957.JPG

Finally, I made my way across the Green River Cutoff to US-6 and headed to Price

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85559-1/IMG_7985.JPG

OverlandXJ

July 31st, 2007, 19:11

Awesome pics as expected Randy! How much time do you have left?

Shaeffer Trail...is that the trail which leads to White Rim? One of these days i would love to see Utah.

IntrepidXJ

July 31st, 2007, 19:30

Awesome pics as expected Randy! How much time do you have left?

Shaeffer Trail...is that the trail which leads to White Rim? One of these days i would love to see Utah.

Well, I have to be at work again next Tuesday (August 7th)...so I have until the 6th to make it home.

Yep, Shafer trail leads to White Rim

kndrewa

July 31st, 2007, 19:41

one word.

epic

this is a great and inspiring adventure, randy.

and the updates make it fun!

good work on beating that wheel back into shape, bravo

i am headed to jasper alberta canada tomorrow - 2000 miles one way.

i wont be able to update like you, but when i return on the 15th, you can expect a nice little adventure forum thread.

cheers, and be safe out there.

andy

IntrepidXJ

August 1st, 2007, 22:37

Left Price this morning and headed up through Nine Mile Canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85562-1/IMG_8018.JPG

Balance Rock

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85565-1/IMG_8031.JPG

One of the many old structures along the way

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85567-1/IMG_8045.JPG

Shot up Cottonwood Canyon and saw some petroglyphs

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85569-1/IMG_8061.JPG

Entering Franks Canyon

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85571-1/IMG_8090.JPG

In Franks Canyon, you are in the wash the whole time

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85573-1/IMG_8093.JPG

Along the Green River

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85575-1/IMG_8135.JPG

After making it to US 40, I gassed up in Duchense and headed up Current Creek in Uinta National Forest.......Current Resevoir

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85577-1/IMG_8163.JPG

Out of the desert and into the mountains again

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85579-1/IMG_8177.JPG

Then I headed out on Mill Hollow as it strated to rain

http://myxj.net/g2/d/85581-1/IMG_8188.JPG

jmaxj

August 2nd, 2007, 06:27

how did you like the currant creek road? gotta love them washboards.

JoesXJ

August 2nd, 2007, 12:37

Wow, these pictures of yours are awsome!! Makes me really want to head over to CO. Anyone know of any Chemist positions in Coloroado?? HAHA

IntrepidXJ

August 3rd, 2007, 20:26

Day 15

Started out the day leaving from Ryan's house and heading to Northern Utah. Ended up in Lander, WY for the night.

Shot up into Idaho on a little loop trail.....weather wasn't the greatest...

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85584-1/IMG_8216.JPG

Then down into Strawberry Valley

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85587-1/IMG_8272.JPG

Ephraims Grave

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85589-1/IMG_8303.JPG

Peter Sinks Trail

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85591-1/IMG_8324.JPG

Heading down Temple Canyon towards Bear Lake in the distance

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85593-1/IMG_8346.JPG

Driving somewhere in WY

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85595-1/IMG_8384.JPG

IntrepidXJ

August 3rd, 2007, 21:02

Day 16

Started out by checking out part of the Wind River Range in the Shoshone National Forest. Here's a few pics from there.

Fiddlers Lake

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85598-1/IMG_8406.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85601-1/IMG_8411.JPG

Little Popo Agie River

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85603-1/IMG_8422.JPG

Louis Lake

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85605-1/IMG_8432.JPG

Got the moon again

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85607-1/IMG_8446.JPG

South Pass City

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85609-1/IMG_8463.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85611-1/IMG_8466.JPG

In Red Canyon

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85613-1/IMG_8500.JPG

Even though this was paved, it was a nice drive through Ten Sleep Canyon and Bighorn National Forest

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85615-1/IMG_8533.JPG

The sky didn't cooperate with me here, as it had just rained and the sun was out, so it was kinda hazy......but I did stop by Devils Tower

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85617-1/IMG_8590.JPG

CanMan

August 3rd, 2007, 21:39

Awesome pics once again Randy.

How many miles have you logged thus far?

OverlandXJ

August 4th, 2007, 08:05

Love the Wyoming shots...cant wait to see the area soon. I didnt quite get west far enough to see Devils Tower in 05, got into the Black Hills and Rushmore..no further. This trip i'll bag it.

Assume your heading into the Badlands today, you'll love it. It's a totally different type of Terrain you'v been seeing the last few weeks.

Thanks for the pics and updates Randy.

DrMoab

August 4th, 2007, 08:23

OverlandXJ

August 4th, 2007, 09:18

I leave Sept 14th. The Teton/Yellowstone thread below.

Boatwrench

August 4th, 2007, 23:37

Two words.....

I'm Jealous!

Great trip, thanks for sharing Randy.

Tom

IntrepidXJ

August 5th, 2007, 14:43

well, after 5206 miles, I am finally home. A day earlier than I planned, but that's OK, because I'm exhausted and need a day of sleep and recovery before I head back to work on Tuesday.

I'll get my pics from the Badlands up later tonight.

jmaxj

August 5th, 2007, 16:07

DrMoab

August 5th, 2007, 19:01

Glad you made it in one piece.

Those memories will last a lifetime.

IntrepidXJ

August 6th, 2007, 10:23

Day 17.....the final day.

Took a drive though Badlands NP on my way home. It was kinda gloomy, but here's a couple of pics anyways

Saw a bunch of these guys

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85620-1/IMG_8652.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85623-1/IMG_8680.JPG

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85625-1/IMG_8698.JPG

....and that's it for this trip. I'm going to work on uploading all of my pics to my website along with a more detailed trip report.....so watch for that.

It was definitely an experience I will never forget!

DaJudge

August 6th, 2007, 11:28

Glad you made it home safe! Great trip and thanks for the updates!

DrMoab

August 6th, 2007, 15:32

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85620-1/IMG_8652.JPG

Those look way better either through a scope on a rifle or blown into a million pieces all over the ground.

slider

August 7th, 2007, 07:31

http://www.myxj.net/g2/d/85620-1/IMG_8652.JPG

Those look way better either through a scope on a rifle or blown into a million pieces all over the ground.

a big X2 on the vaporization of the "SOD POODLES".

IntrepidXJ

August 7th, 2007, 19:57

ok....since i was curious, I added up my fuel cost from the trip.....

...and the grand total is.........

$1322.86

:wow:

....but WELL worth it!

jmaxj

August 7th, 2007, 20:05

ok....since i was curious, I added up my fuel cost from the trip.....

...and the grand total is.........

$1322.86

:wow:

....but WELL worth it!
your motel cost probably would have beat it if you didn't sleep in your jeep so much:D

HaleYes

August 7th, 2007, 20:05

How many miles?

IntrepidXJ

August 7th, 2007, 20:07

How many miles?

5206 miles

HaleYes

August 7th, 2007, 20:12

So it cost you a little over a quarter for every mile driven.
That dosen't make it sound so bad.

Hale

OverlandXJ

August 7th, 2007, 20:12

5206 miles

Average MPG?

IntrepidXJ

August 7th, 2007, 20:19

Average MPG?

don't have that number........didn't keep track of gallons

i did check a few random tanks during the trip, and I was anywhere between 12-15 mpg

Boatwrench

August 7th, 2007, 22:10

Randy,

Write a book. A travel book, describe the preparations, research of the trails, mods to the Jeep etc. Than begin the journey, use your photos as a photo essay, describe where there was pavement, graded road and 4wd necessary, include waypoints. Finish up with what mods were worth it, which were necessary, which were overkill (for this trip).

Some of the over the counter 4wd books are dated, especially with the generic mods and what to carry on the trail. This would be a fresh product.

Recoup some of your costs, heck maybe some tax saavy guy can tell you if the trip would then be a write off.

Then..........

Do another adventure next year.

Tom

IntrepidXJ

August 8th, 2007, 06:19

It's funny.....I have actually considered this......just didn't know where to start.

Plus, I'm not really great at writing....

Randy,

Write a book. A travel book, describe the preparations, research of the trails, mods to the Jeep etc. Than begin the journey, use your photos as a photo essay, describe where there was pavement, graded road and 4wd necessary, include waypoints. Finish up with what mods were worth it, which were necessary, which were overkill (for this trip).

Some of the over the counter 4wd books are dated, especially with the generic mods and what to carry on the trail. This would be a fresh product.

Recoup some of your costs, heck maybe some tax saavy guy can tell you if the trip would then be a write off.

Then..........

Do another adventure next year.

Tom

jmaxj

August 8th, 2007, 06:59

It's funny.....I have actually considered this......just didn't know where to start.

i think in your driveway:)

karstic

August 8th, 2007, 15:15

Awesome...Awesome ...Awesome

Do you have GPS tracks of your route?

IntrepidXJ

August 8th, 2007, 15:16

Do you have GPS tracks of your route?

i should.....but i haven't work on getting them up yet.......hopefully soon

jmaxj

August 8th, 2007, 16:11

i should.....but i haven't work on getting them up yet.......hopefully soon
put them all on google earth and kmz files :)

Handlebars

August 8th, 2007, 16:51

I really enjoyed following along with you at home, what a great trip! That is exactly what the Cherokee was made for.

BTW, thanks for representing the club!

IntrepidXJ

August 8th, 2007, 17:31

I really enjoyed following along with you at home, what a great trip! That is exactly what the Cherokee was made for.

BTW, thanks for representing the club!

I'm really glad you enjoyed it....because, to be honest, it has been your trips that have really inspired me to get out and do a trip like this.....and I plan to do many more in the future

:thumbup:

So much out there to see!

fxdlrider

August 8th, 2007, 19:14

ditto on the book and gps. I took a trip out to colorado last year, but it sucked because I wanted to travel as much off road as we could, but I didn't know the trails well enough to get around without using the blacktop. I know the colorado back roads and 4-wheel drive trails series is very popular, but it doesn't tell you how to get from one area to the other without getting back on a main road again. I would also be interested in the areas you camped and what kind of facilities they had (if any). Thanks again for the trip.

OverlandXJ

August 10th, 2007, 14:05

IntrepidXJ

August 10th, 2007, 14:22

Randy, was checking out your pics in scenic wheeling thread. I may have missed it earlier but what resource did you use for the trails you ran? Well's book?

Also, whats the restrictions on camping along some of those routes? Noticed the tent in one pic.

Used a combination of books and maps to plan the trip :)

http://myxj.net/g2/d/84269-1/IMG_4212.JPG

I did have 3 Well's books with me. Both Colorado ones (the older versions.....I haven't bought the new ones yet), and the Moab one.

I also had these 2 books, which I would also recommend checking out:

http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/515X90QY17L._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_OU01_AA240_SH20_.jpghttp://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/51DQ2WTKAFL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_OU01_AA240_SH20_.jpg

For the San Rafael Swell, Clint actually sent me some very nice maps of the area put out by Emery county.....and to be honest......they were some of the nicest maps I have ever come across for an area, plus they do an excellent job signing the trails in the Swell.

For northern Utah, not only did I have the Backcountry adventures book to help, but I got some trail information from xjblue and DrMoab

For Wyoming I used this book:

http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/515THN2WZCL._BO2,204,203,200_PIlitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_OU01_AA240_SH20_.jpg

Also had each state's Atlas & Gazetteer

As for camping, there were different restrictions all over the places that I was at. Not to mention that I passed by numerous designated National Forest campgrounds throughout the trip. The picture I posted with my tent, was actually at the campground where Coloradofest was held this year right outside of Silverton

Hope that helps :)

karstic

August 14th, 2007, 23:27

Write up an article for Overland Journal. A trip right here in the good ole US of A.

How many off-road miles were covered?

Gerr

August 21st, 2007, 12:44

Man reading about your trip has given me the itch to go do some exploring again. Thanks my wife will now have some one else to blame for my wandering :)

Rob D

August 22nd, 2007, 09:38

Thanks for sharing your trip with us, they are amazing. I would love to explore those trails someday, but.....

rokclimbertx

August 22nd, 2007, 11:21

i'd be interested in those GPS routes as well should you decide to go to the trouble...

great photos on your website too!

IntrepidXJ

August 22nd, 2007, 12:59

i guess i never posted a link to my full photo album in this thread.....so here it is:

http://myxj.net/g2/v/2007_Trips/intrepidxpedition07/

JTBOSCO

August 24th, 2007, 10:42

That was incedible!!! Very cool. Makes me want to plan a trip as well.
Thanks

kndrewa

August 24th, 2007, 11:25

my full photo album:

http://myxj.net/g2/v/2007_Trips/intrepidxpedition07/

awesome! there are some GREAT shots in there that aren't in this thread.

this was an amazing trip you took, and i am envious of the amount of off highway time you had. i had my own similar long distance adventure, but it was more along the lines of two 17 hr solo driving days on interstates to get to canada and then the backpacking.

next time im doing it the intrepid way...

; )

p.s. hope you dont mind i stole your front plate mounting location

IntrepidXJ

August 24th, 2007, 12:01

awesome! there are some GREAT shots in there that aren't in this thread.

p.s. hope you dont mind i stole your front plate mounting location

yeah, it's hard to pick out the best ones on the road....i did the best i could ;)

no, i don't mind about the plate.....nothing i could do even if i did :)

btw- we really need to hook up and do some wheeling or something sometime. looks like I'm actually taking a last minute trip to Silver Lake tomorrow

kndrewa

August 29th, 2007, 15:43

i would be up for a trip to the cliffs (never been) or the badlands in the not too distant future. again, maybe before the snow flies? or maybe after, for fun-factor. ; )

wheres winterfest this year?

IntrepidXJ

August 29th, 2007, 17:18

winterfest hasn't been decided on yet as far as a location goes.....it won't be until Feb/March of next year anyways.

I don't know when, but I'm sure I'll be making another trip to The Badlands in the next few months sometime

Fish'nCarz

August 31st, 2007, 20:03

Maybe I missed it, but what mods have you done to your XJ?

IntrepidXJ

September 1st, 2007, 10:23

Maybe I missed it, but what mods have you done to your XJ?

Well, let me start off by saying, that this XJ is still a work in progress, because it's not quite modified the way I want. I bought it in February, and in order to get it ready for this trip, I ended up using a lot of parts that I had laying around the garage in order to get it ready in time (for example, I'm planning on a T&T front suspension, better leaf spring i the rear and better shocks for high speed stuff).

But, right now, here's where it's at....

Suspension
-----------

- RE 4.5" coils and leaf springs
- MJ shackles in the rear with an added stock coil isolater in the front to level it out
- JKS upper and lower contol arms
- OME long travel shocks
- Kevins Trackbar Conversion

Tires / Wheels
-------------

- 32x11.5x15 Maxxis Bighorns
- 15x7 Steel Wheels with 4.25 BackSpacing

Bumpers & Armor
----------------

- Front Protofab4x4 bumper
- Rear Custom4x4fabrication bumper with tire carrier
- Skid Row Gas Tank Skid
- Warn TC skid
- AJ's Super Rails

Driveline
--------

- Swapped in a HP D30 and added 4.56 gears, Aussie locker & Alloy USA shafts
- Rear 8.25 with 4.56 gears, No-Slip and disc brakes
- Tom Woods Rear Driveshaft
- PORC SYE
- Tera 2Lo

Misc
----

- Warn M8000 winch
- Surco Roof Rack
- PIAA lights
- Optima Red Top

...that's all I can remember right now. If you have any more specific questions about the build, feel free to ask :)

MrSimon

November 11th, 2008, 19:14

I know its bad etiquette to bump a really old thread, but .....

I sat down tonight to watch a movie, but like usual, decided to check NAXJA real quick and ran across this thread.

Needless to say, I didn't watch my movie tonight. I read through this whole thread and I can honestly say its one of the best I've ever seen. Fantastic job! Thanks so much for taking the time to detail everything out and take such great pictures.

Like others have said, this is truly an inspiration. But more than that, it lets the rest of us feel, even if just a little bit, like we were able to go on a trip like this.