Trucks Tv Xj build on Spike TV Sunday

[Stumpalump]

Hey guys,

Ryan from TRUCKS! TV here. I wanted to post and let people know that we are doing a Cherokee build on the show. The first of the shows will air this weekend (on Spike). Its nothing too hard core as we are going for a dual purpose XJ but its still going to be a tough DD/weekend wheeler. We are starting w/ an almost free, crashed out '88 and trying to spend money wisely (and avoid spending if we can). Just wanted let you :NAXJA: guys know. Thanks.

Ryan

[RangerRick]

I saw it. I liked the door hinge fix.

[Jeepm@n]

Nice job Stump. At least it wasn't totally erased. Someone post this to you tube yet? Satellite went down with the last storm I had. 10" of snow and ice:puke:

[89XJPIG]

Sweet! I'll be sure to set my DVR to record it.

[vegeta]

out of curiosity you guys replaced both fenders. what was wrong with the drivers side? It looked like it was in pretty good shape. I really liked the fact you guys are getting junkyard stuff to do your build instead of going with 3 or 4 thousand dollar axle setups. I really liked das bronco, rebuilding stock parts and making due with what you have and I hope this project goes in the same direction. Keep up the good work guys!

[poorboy_616]

This is one build that I am defintely going to learn from....

someone already rewelded the door hinge on the drivers door of my 87...

Should be fun to see what they do with it......

[tcm glx]

out of curiosity you guys replaced both fenders. what was wrong with the drivers side? It looked like it was in pretty good shape. I really liked the fact you guys are getting junkyard stuff to do your build instead of going with 3 or 4 thousand dollar axle setups. I really liked das bronco, rebuilding stock parts and making due with what you have and I hope this project goes in the same direction. Keep up the good work guys!


Well, just from the show....I saw a 97+ header panel.....so I am imagining the full front update is what they are after!

[MT Mike]

out of curiosity you guys replaced both fenders. what was wrong with the drivers side? It looked like it was in pretty good shape. I really liked the fact you guys are getting junkyard stuff to do your build instead of going with 3 or 4 thousand dollar axle setups. I really liked das bronco, rebuilding stock parts and making due with what you have and I hope this project goes in the same direction. Keep up the good work guys!

Just so you know, Stump isn't Ryan. He just posted a cut and paste of another thread here.

[WrenchMonkey]

We are starting w/ an almost free, crashed out '88 and trying to spend money wisely (and avoid spending if we can)

See, that got me excited. But I just watched my dvr, and I'm a little disappointed.

First, they rolled out the $2000 frame puller, complete with anchor points embedded in the shop floor. I said "Okay, so much for cheap, but I guess you gotta do what you gotta do..."

But then they threw two perfectly usable fenders in the trash, and slapped on a full, brand new 97+ doghouse. You can't possibly claim that was for anything but "pretty." And that's $300-400 (looking at q-tec, real quick). On a real-world budget, $400 is a sye and driveshaft, not a facelift.

Which made me realize, even though the premise of the project was a "Cheep Cherokee," they never even mentioned what they were spending, either on tools or on parts...

I guess it's par-for-the-course for TV, but it bugs me that they sold it as a "little-to-no-budget" project...

Maybe I'm too easily bugged...

Robert

Edit: The more I think about it, the less "necessary" the frame-straightening seems. It was only the first 4-6" that was crumpled, so the suspension mounts weren't affected. There had to be a cheap/free way to get the core support pulled away from the fan. You'd have to improvise a little when fabbing the bumper mounts, but that's the sort of "make-it-work" I was hoping for...

Oh well...

[xcm]

wheres the tech? if your gonna complain about someone elses build at least do it in off topic...

[WrenchMonkey]

wheres the tech? if your gonna complain about someone elses build at least do it in off topic...

Well, in off-topic they're debating the club politics of whether and where Ryan should have been able to post...

I was at least "complaining" about the project itself and the work being done. I was talking about where my priorities would be in a low-buck buildup, and about what will and won't work.

Robert

[poorboy_616]

I would have deemed the frame puller over-kill, unless it's a tool that was previously purchased, as it seems that one was....

Now as for the front clip, that was something that could have been left out....

Also the reasont they used the frame puller was to get the frame rail out of the tire. However they could have used a come-along (with hooks and what-not) and another anchor point to gently pull it out.

And, yes I have done that.....

[ABN82MP]

I had a similar problem with an XJ I bought recently as salvage. It was hit front right.

http://www.daveysjeeps.com/repairables/images/R208615/pic4.jpg

I just cut out the bad part to just behind the sqaure hole part in the inner fenderand straightened the rest with a Hi-Lift and hammer & dolly. Then I welded in a piece cut out of an XJ that was hit in the rear.

http://www.fototime.com/%7B3CFA8FCE-3AD2-4BB9-A379-75C09812CEDF%7D/picture.JPG

Now THAT is little to no budget! :D

[NCCherokee]

i was excited to see the show, until I realized how much time and money they used to basically BEGIN their build with an '88 cherokee with a pretty face. I understand a lot of people buy salvage jeeps, but most of them will either have a shop straighten it, or do like ABN82MP and already know how to do it themselves. Hence they wasted an entire episode on some cosmetic stuff. the whole time I was watching it, I kept saying they just cut the front clip off and rebuild the front end and core support with some square stock like the guy did in the advanced fab section. that would have been cheap.

[outlander]

Edit: The more I think about it, the less "necessary" the frame-straightening seems. It was only the first 4-6" that was crumpled, so the suspension mounts weren't affected. There had to be a cheap/free way to get the core support pulled away from the fan. You'd have to improvise a little when fabbing the bumper mounts, but that's the sort of "make-it-work" I was hoping for...

Oh well...

Well it Is Trucks TV......
I bet Stacey David wouldn't have been worried too much about the frame.He would've been itchin' to wheel it too much!!!

[Tate228]

im wonder how big a "dual purpose XJ" is. im guessing 6.5in with some 33's. I was really hoping for a bejing 2500 front clip, 8in long arms, and some big meats.

[xtimmax]

it reminds me of mine when i got it, a two door with busted hinges and front end damage. when i saw the 97+ front clip, it changed my mind about thinking how it was going to be a budget build.

[Stumpalump]

it reminds me of mine when i got it, a two door with busted hinges and front end damage. when i saw the 97+ front clip, it changed my mind about thinking how it was going to be a budget build.

Those guys are good. I was allways told to steer clear of an XJ with bad hing mount cracks but now I know better.

[jaxes88]

i saw the ep and it was ok but the whole buying another axle like its nothing is what i wasnt happy with (but i do live in eastern oregon where cars and car parts cost bout 1 and a half time what theyre worth)

[xtimmax]

Those guys are good. I was allways told to steer clear of an XJ with bad hing mount cracks but now I know better.


the way they fixed it was really cool. I just plated the area and then welded the hinges over it. The door opens and closes smoothly, but i wish i had known about that way before i did it.

[MT Mike]

...

[WrenchMonkey]

im guessing 6.5in with some 33's...

...and the 411s in their 8.8...

Robert

[92jeepxjOR]

are they continuing this build on next weeks show?

[C85D4x4]

They will probably end up using Rusty's Crap being that hes one of the sponsors

[kdailey4315]

Well it Is Trucks TV......
I bet Stacey David wouldn't have been worried too much about the frame.He would've been itchin' to wheel it too much!!!

Stacy David was the best. I miss watching the shoe with him. He was much better than these guys. Copper Head was his best build I think.

[xtimmax]

Stacy David was the best. I miss watching the shoe with him. He was much better than these guys. Copper Head was his best build I think.


I remember copper head. gotta love that truck

[BillBraski]

Stacy David was the best. I miss watching the shoe with him. He was much better than these guys. Copper Head was his best build I think.

Agreed. Lou Santiago was just as good IMO.

Even though I went to school for years to be were I'm at, I had learned a few things from Stacy David and Lou.
The only reason these shows are on TV is to sell performance aftermarket parts. Nothing wrong with that.

[5.2poweredxj]

You guys know that Stacy David still has a TV show? I watch every sat. morning at 8:00 am my time on the speed channel. The show is called Gearz.

http://www.gearztv.com/

[kdailey4315]

You guys know that Stacy David still has a TV show? I watch every sat. morning at 8:00 am my time on the speed channel. The show is called Gearz.

http://www.gearztv.com/

No I didn't thanks alot

[boomhauer]

You guys know that Stacy David still has a TV show? I watch every sat. morning at 8:00 am my time on the speed channel. The show is called Gearz.

http://www.gearztv.com/

Good info, Stacey knows how to beat on his junk...and other peoples too! lol
Lou was great too, i sent an email thanking him for the time spent laughing and wishing him the best.
On Trucks! i liked that monster of a fellow who could just as easily have been a UFC fighter or wrestler! lol That deep grizzled voice sounded like he was going to kill someone at any moment! lol

I think it's great if Trucks and/or Extreme4x4 post in the tech section to let us know of builds reguarding the XJ, it is tech info afterall, just via the idiot box.
Did extreme4x4 ever finish their JeepSpeed XJ? -B

[CrunchnMunch]

Yea,Stacey David is probably the coolest host ever. Remember how he just beat the crap out of everything? And how he showed you exactly how to fix things. Gearz is a pretty neat show,but it's a little different than trucks. But still good. Anybody ever check out the old dodge on 49's that stacey did? Now that thing was bad ass. But it seems like now all these new guys want to show is,how to fix a scratch in you brand new truck. And they even had an episode on how to wash your truck once. Good info,but just not for me.

[xtimmax]

Did extreme4x4 ever finish their JeepSpeed XJ? -B

Nope, rustys took over the project, I was kindof looking foward to seeing the end of that one. during the time we were involved with a jeepspeed team doing chase and pit support.

[Muad'Dib]

If anyone is interested in viewing these episodes, i have created a page to do so...

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185

[BIGSLVRXJ]

If anyone is interested in viewing these episodes, i have created a page to do so...

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185
Ahh shoot I missed you by like a day, I bought the first part via iTunes for $1.99. Oh well, atleast now I can watch it on the Pod. Thanks Muad'Dib.

[Muad'Dib]

Ahh shoot I missed you by like a day, I bought the first part via iTunes for $1.99. Oh well, atleast now I can watch it on the Pod. Thanks Muad'Dib.

Tomorrow i will be adding links on this page to download them in avi format using the xvid codec. Then if you want, you can re-encode them to the format of your choice... or just plainly save them for later

If you would like them in mp4 format (for your iPod), please contact me backchannel and ill see what i can do for you.

[mcraindog]

so what time is this coming on tomorrow? i missed the first one on t.v. but luckily caught it on here

[Muad'Dib]

Check your local listings on spike.

[DansGreyMj]

They didnt have the xj on today and xtreme 4x4 was a repeat like always.

[Muad'Dib]

Today?? I always thought new Trucks episodes came on, on Sundays...

[lancey3]

Today?? I always thought new Trucks episodes came on, on Sundays...

x2

[aparke4]

yah sunday for me

[DansGreyMj]

They changed it to where new ones play on saturday and they repeat them on sunday.

[Muad'Dib]

Hmm... its not like that around here ... its the other way around.

[JEFF]

They need to show about how to replace the floor pans, seems like there is a post every few weeks on here about someone finding a huge rust hole under there carpet.

[mcraindog]

looked on spiketv.com and they showed trucks coming on tomorrow but not the xj episode

[my2monkeys]

Yeah, that damn "TRUCKS" is working on that fiberglass bodied rig this week. You ever watch "TWO GUYS GARAGE" on "Speed Channel"? That guy's pretty down to earth. I also like "Dream Car Garage". BTW, I guess Boyd Coddington passed away, so theres no more "American HotRod".

[90Blue_XJ]

So have we lost the chance to see the XJ build up on "Trucks"? I have new episodes coming on Sunday and last weeks repeats show on Saturday. Thank goodness for Tivo.

[Muad'Dib]

So have we lost the chance to see the XJ build up on "Trucks"? I have new episodes coming on Sunday and last weeks repeats show on Saturday. Thank goodness for Tivo.

http://www.naxja.org/forum/showpost.php?p=243862799&postcount=33

[WrenchMonkey]

Episode II: BLEAH!

Fresh paint on a "budget/beater" truck?

And BUSHWACKERS?!? $400 flares, again, on a "budget" truck? And pinch seam? We don' need no steekin pinch seam! Hack it to the belt line!

And best of all: Recovery shackles and a 2" receiver, all mounted on the stock six bolts?

Damn. Makes me appreciate everything I've learned here at NAXJA...

Robert

[mud1059]

I was thinking the same thing. Not to mention the CNC plasma cutter. Real Cheap! They only made the mounts for the bumper to the factory 3 bolts. If you're building a $300 bumper with a $10k plasma cutter, do it right.

Those MATCO guys only removed half the wheelwell to get those worthless BWhackers in there. Nice choice there gents. There is now a 3" wide open gap behind your plastic fenders.

Hey TRUCKS! If you need a consultant to not look like asses, gimme a call.

[poorboy_616]

From the sound of it, would it be worth even trying to record tommorow???

I will anyway, just so I can get the shock value.....

[WrenchMonkey]

Yeah, then you can join us in mocking their efforts, and feeling all superior... :moon:

Robert

[poorboy_616]

Yep....

I am going to set my VCR, YES VCR, no Tivo in my place (it sucks) and record the show, that way I can actually watch it when I get back from grocery shopping......

Ya, I got a 16MPG grocery getter...... I can still kick some asses in it though....

[NickThePyro]

Yeah I saw that today, not realy budget.

Budget: 3.5" AAL, major trimming, 33s, and presto, your done.

[rocknxj]

Episode II: BLEAH!

Fresh paint on a "budget/beater" truck?

And BUSHWACKERS?!? $400 flares, again, on a "budget" truck? And pinch seam? We don' need no steekin pinch seam! Hack it to the belt line!

And best of all: Recovery shackles and a 2" receiver, all mounted on the stock six bolts?

Damn. Makes me appreciate everything I've learned here at NAXJA...

Robert

My thoughts EXACTLY! I might be losing respect for that show...

[89Daytona]

Cheep must only refer to the purchase price of the jeep, because their "shoestring budget" is one fat shoestring.

I like how they are usong tools everyone has in their garage, yeah right.....
$435 JD2 tubing bender & stand
$2k frame puller
$10k torchmate cnc plamsa rig

They used that camera to go inside the valve cover and you could see all the sludge on the rockers, that was great.

[redXJlimited]

Mildly entertaining at best, but pretty bad tech info/execution. I couldnt believe they hacked out the rear with no mention of fixing the pinch seem.

[kdailey4315]

Cheep must only refer to the purchase price of the jeep, because their "shoestring budget" is one fat shoestring.

I like how they are usong tools everyone has in their garage, yeah right.....
$435 JD2 tubing bender & stand
$2k frame puller
$10k torchmate cnc plamsa rig

They used that camera to go inside the valve cover and you could see all the sludge on the rockers, that was great.

Why is everyone complaining about the tools. Who cares if they use tools that are expensive.

[xtimmax]

Why is everyone complaining about the tools. Who cares if they use tools that are expensive.



x2. at least they are building a cherokee. You dont see alot of those on the shows, Its mostly cjs and tjs. I'm thinking they caught the bug? doesnt everyone who starts to build one on a budget end up dumping way to much into it?

[alex22]

yep!

[poorboy_616]

What a waste!! I learn more about modding my XJ from you guys here than I do off the show!!!

It's nice to see an XJ getting some T.V. time, but I need more info than what is given.

I don't think their budget is exactly shoestring........(Kinda of a waste to me.....)

[89Daytona]

Why is everyone complaining about the tools. Who cares if they use tools that are expensive.
They are calling it a "cheep jeep" build but not many people are going to have those tools, so the build isn't cheap if you have to spend over $10k just on tooling, that is why everyone is "complaining" about the tools.

[poorboy_616]

THe other thing is, you can rent tools as well, If you noticed I am not bitching about the tools costs, I am only bitching about the $400 Bwacker flares..... and the new header panel and front end.....

I know tools aren't cheap, but once you have them, you don't need to spend the money on them.....

I still have most of my original $1500 Husky tool set from my Auto Tech class days. Yes, their are some new additions, but most of my old tools are still in use.....


Now, if you will excuse me, I have a CB to install.....

[Mr_Random]

They are calling it a "cheep jeep" build but not many people are going to have those tools, so the build isn't cheap if you have to spend over $10k just on tooling, that is why everyone is "complaining" about the tools.
They should have a disclaimer at the end of the last "Cheep Jeep" episode that says to visit NAXJA for the REAL information you need to build a "cheep jeep."

I was sitting next to my little brother saying "That bumper won't stay on the frame, those bushwackers are ugly and cost too much, they forgot the pinch seam!"

I actually loved the paint, that was the only BUDGET thing about it, I mean, I CAN ACTUALLY DO THAT! Just need to replace the stolen compressor...

What brand wheels/tires did they use? That was 1000 dollars well spent... not...

[poorboy_616]

I think the bumper gets ripped right off the first time they use the D rings.....

Once again, where's the body parts budget??

[NCCherokee]

that buildup is a joke, for all the reasons mentioned here. They throw a new front clip, a paint job, and crappy parts, using expensive tools.

The buy this wrecked jeep, using an expensive tool to straighten the frame, and the first thing they do is put a new clip on it. they build a substandard bumper, with crappy shackle mounts, crappy frame mounts, they cut the pinch seam without re-welding it, and install costly bushwackers. I'm sure the rear bumper is no better. They buy cheap ass paint, but then have a professional painter spray it on, cus that's cheap...when you have a resident painter on staff and it doesnt cost anything. Seriously, it is one of the worst builds i've ever seen, and they order a quadratech lift. I was half expecting them to build a longarm and mount the brackets to the stock x-member. What sucks, is if people who don't know better watch the show and try to do the same "upgrades", resulting in trashed unibodies everywhere; cutting the pinch seam, straightening a trashed unibody, and instead of plating it, which is actually cheap, they put a bumper on 3 bolts per a side. they'll be repairing that unibody pretty soon. again.

[kdailey4315]

They are calling it a "cheep jeep" build but not many people are going to have those tools, so the build isn't cheap if you have to spend over $10k just on tooling, that is why everyone is "complaining" about the tools.

Do you have the ability to go to a shop and have your frame fixed? Do you have the ability to go to a shop and get tubing bent if you need to? Why is it that people are bitching about the fact that they don't have to go somewhere else to get these things done. Everything that has been done to this Jeep is well wintin people's ability to have done somewhere if they don't have the "10K" in tools.

[kdailey4315]

I did think it was funny that the Jeep was painted blue then put on display at a Maco tool convention. The Maco blue was a very similar blue to the XJ paint color

[kdailey4315]

that buildup is a joke, for all the reasons mentioned here. They throw a new front clip, a paint job, and crappy parts, using expensive tools.

The buy this wrecked jeep, using an expensive tool to straighten the frame, and the first thing they do is put a new clip on it. they build a substandard bumper, with crappy shackle mounts, crappy frame mounts, they cut the pinch seam without re-welding it, and install costly bushwackers. I'm sure the rear bumper is no better. They buy cheap ass paint, but then have a professional painter spray it on, cus that's cheap...when you have a resident painter on staff and it doesnt cost anything. Seriously, it is one of the worst builds i've ever seen, and they order a quadratech lift. I was half expecting them to build a longarm and mount the brackets to the stock x-member. What sucks, is if people who don't know better watch the show and try to do the same "upgrades", resulting in trashed unibodies everywhere; cutting the pinch seam, straightening a trashed unibody, and instead of plating it, which is actually cheap, they put a bumper on 3 bolts per a side. they'll be repairing that unibody pretty soon. again.

Do you actually think that they show every single thing that is done to their projects? How do you know that they justr didn't show them welding the pinch seams. I do agree that bumper was crappy.

[89Daytona]

Do you have the ability to go to a shop and have your frame fixed? Do you have the ability to go to a shop and get tubing bent if you need to? Why is it that people are bitching about the fact that they don't have to go somewhere else to get these things done. Everything that has been done to this Jeep is well wintin people's ability to have done somewhere if they don't have the "10K" in tools.
If you have to go to a shop everytime you need something done the project won't be "on the cheep" like the show is trying to make it sound.

[tgoff]

Do you actually think that they show every single thing that is done to their projects? How do you know that they justr didn't show them welding the pinch seams. I do agree that bumper was crappy.

That would be a pretty major part to leave out because it takes quite a bit of time to do and is pretty critical. It should have been mentioned.

[88manche]

It should have. I watched that episode before going to work today. What a joke.

I'm sitting there with three girls, freaking out about how theyre f*cking up a perfectly (almost) good 2door Xj by not mounting the bumper right (among other things), pointing out how much stuff theyre doing costs and how i could do it for way less.They just sat there staring at me like some kind of alien.


They just don't understand.......

[rstrucks]

Tough crowd! Well, all I can say is thanks for watching. As far as the bumpers go - the build is supposed to be a mild one, not a hard core rig w/ heavy duty everything. We didn't have a chance to show it but the bumper did get reinforced a bit and it had been trail tested in the mean time. And yeah its still on the front of the Jeep. After I saw how much pressure it took to move the sheetmetal "frame" back into place maybe I over estimated how strong the mounting needed to be. On the BW flares - they were in process of being installed when I got there and from what I can tell they were installed per intruction from BW. Sounds like there is better way. Thats the good thing about forums like this. Me - I'll live and learn. The next show should be more "in depth" as we don't have to spend two segments at a tool convention. (just one at Midas getting our rotors turned:rolleyes: )

Oh yeah the budget. There is always a cheaper or better way to do things....always. That said I think this was a somewhat low budget considering its a TV build. Sometime in the next few days I am going to get a total together of what was spent. I'll let you know what I come up with.

Thanks for all the feedback - it will help us make a better show. BTW check out next weeks XJ build so you can rip that one too!

Ryan

[WrenchMonkey]

Hey, bravo for having the nuts to speak up in a (mildly!) hostile environ...

And, yeah, "low-buck" is a relative term...

I think that's what rubs some of us wrong: With all our "real" bills to pay, we know what a real low-buck budget is!

But thanks for the effort!

Robert

[rstrucks]

I'm in the same boat w/ "real" bills to pay. You ought to see the P'sOS that are in my garage. Everything I own has over 160K miles and nothing is worht more than 7 or 8K! Sometimes I want to give my home shipping address when I order parts for these projects!

[WrenchMonkey]

Yep, I imagine it could be hard sometimes, to translate that home-garage reality to the studio...

Robert

[jeepme]

Its great to here that you are on NAXJA to respond to all this. I watch the show with an open mind to maybe learn somne things that I can utilize on my own cherokee and other biulds. Keep up the great work and as you know you cant please everyone, but hey at least you are doing a cherokee build which I think is pretty cool.

[gigage]

I've read most of the post here, and know what you mean about realism. They can only do so much when they have a 30 minute show, and the advertising takes up more time than the actual Tech part of the show. That advertising is what pays for all those nice tools, but at the cost of viewers.

[Rob Mayercik]

Its great to here that you are on NAXJA to respond to all this. I watch the show with an open mind to maybe learn somne things that I can utilize on my own cherokee and other biulds. Keep up the great work and as you know you cant please everyone, but hey at least you are doing a cherokee build which I think is pretty cool.

I'm with this guy - even if I end up not always agreeing with everything done on the show, it's good to see an XJ getting some camera time. Haven't seen part two yet (forgot to set the VCR), but will catch the replay next Saturday.

And thanks for dropping in on the thread.

[drifto77]

I like the show, watch it whenever I can.
I get LOTS of ideas from the show, just no money to do them.
You wanna save $$$ on the expensive tools like the one to get the frame straight???
Find a cheep Cherokee that aint wrecked.
Ya know... things like that.
If they ever need a 4-dr to build up...
Hey... They can come get mine ANYTIME.

[Muad'Dib]

Part two was disappointing, but still informative nonetheless..

If you missed it and want to watch it, or just plainly want to download it, i have added it to Part 1 on the page i made for these episodes:

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185

[poorboy_616]

Thank you!! I was waiting to be abel to download it!!! It may be un-realistic, but there are some good ideas to be had....

[89Daytona]

BTW check out next weeks XJ build so you can rip that one too!
Are you going to show a way to get rid of all the sludge/build up on the valvetrain that you showed using the fiberoptic scope at the tool show, maybe using ATF, Auto-Rx or someother method?

Are you going to change the rear shocks and break the bolts like almost everyone does, then show a fix?

[stephenspann27]

I saw it. I liked the door hinge fix.

I missed the episode, how did they fix them?

[magimerlin]

I missed the episode, how did they fix them?

look at post 81 it has the link to watch them

[88manche]

Are you going to show a way to get rid of all the sludge/build up on the valvetrain that you showed using the fiberoptic scope at the tool show, maybe using ATF, Auto-Rx or someother method? Change oil, Replace a quart or two of oil with a quart or two of diesel, run the engine for 20 mins, then change oil again. Worked great on my 1968 F-250.:patriot:

[Stallacrew]

Any one used the kind of one stage paint they did? it looks good on camera and I have mine due in for some next paint this summer so I was leaning toward the $70 paint job.

Sorry if it's off subject.

[poorboy_616]

Not off subject for this thread....

I think they said it was a PPG industrial coating.....

[joe_gold]

Im with you on the paint. It did look really good. The XJ was so smooth under it that had to be HOURS of skilled body work. When the time comes I think Im going to shoot mine without pullung the dents. Its gonna get trashed anyway.


Cool to see how they fixed the body under the bumper. Using that clamp they used with a winch or come along may come in handy one day.

[hot_rod_hooligans]

Any one used the kind of one stage paint they did? it looks good on camera and I have mine due in for some next paint this summer so I was leaning toward the $70 paint job.

Sorry if it's off subject.
Single stage

[Maverickj1]

What a waste of time. When I read this thread, I figured you guys were just being to hard on the show. Now that I've seen it, I wish I had just believed you. The only thing they did cheap was the paint. Who spends the time and money to straighten the frame on an '88 XJ if they don't already own the tools and know how to do it? I know who, someone who's purpose is to sell a frame straightener. This show is not about building a cheap XJ, it's about selling tools that you don't actually need.

:spam:

[aparke4]

bumper ugly and not strong nuff for a good pull
bushwaker flares... more than the xj itself
paint - cool find for under 75$
cnc machine and frame puller? yeah i have em sitting next to the laser cutter...
wheels are new meats? more than the xj again!

i wish they would stick to a budget... it was good until this episode and they did not put the fitch fuel catalyst on the xj?!!!!! oh well

[stephenspann27]

They need to show about how to replace the floor pans, seems like there is a post every few weeks on here about someone finding a huge rust hole under there carpet.

I have one big enough to throw a cat through behind the passenger seat..

[stephenspann27]

Yeah, that damn "TRUCKS" is working on that fiberglass bodied rig this week. You ever watch "TWO GUYS GARAGE" on "Speed Channel"? That guy's pretty down to earth. I also like "Dream Car Garage". BTW, I guess Boyd Coddington passed away, so theres no more "American HotRod".
I bet they will air at least what they have recorded so far of American Hotrod. I'm sure they will want to cash in on the drama of him passing away.. probably interview his workers that kind of thing..

[WrenchMonkey]

...the bumper did get reinforced a bit...

I sure hope so, since you guys hung a winch on it in Episode III...

Oh yeah the budget. There is always a cheaper or better way to do things....always. That said I think this was a somewhat low budget considering its a TV build. Sometime in the next few days I am going to get a total together of what was spent. I'll let you know what I come up with...

Ryan

I'm looking forward to that, I'm doing the same thing in my head, but you'll have access to the actual numbers.

As for the rest of Episode III:

Big "Bravos" on explaining the benefits of a full leaf pack (that's one area where I agree you need to drop a (very) little coin over blocks.) and the 297 ujoint axle upgrade (a good, cheap upgrade) and the steel-grey paint on the wheels (which just looks way cool with the LEGO-blue paint)

But "boos" on the high-dollar wheel spacers, the super-high-dollar Ected, and the complete gloss-over on the supposedly low-budget buckets.

And a HUGE boo on the five minute Midas commercial in the middle of the show, for a service you admit they don't even offer! Besides, who the hell turns rotors anymore? You can buy new ones for twenty bucks...

But again, Ryan (if you're still reading this!) thanks for stickin your neck out and taking our grief. We're only so crotchety because we love our rigs, and take your high-profile buildup personally!

Robert

[xtimmax]

I am really liking this build. I really like your spare tire holder idea. I have a 2 dr aswell with some hunsaker seats that dont fold foward to access the rear seat. Although you guys put on some expensive parts like the bushwhackers and the ECTED I still think it is a very capable rig build on a budget.


Good show.

[MG2000XJ]

I enjoyed the show for the sole fact that it was an xj. It definitely wasnt a budget build but then again look at half the jeeps on the site, they arent budget builds either. That being said the other half are budget builds. Even if they did some expensive and unecessary things (frame, wackers etc..) they also did some cool things like the spare carrier, and cheap paint. Imo it was a good show and I enjoyed it for sure.

[WrenchMonkey]

I enjoyed the show for the sole fact that it was an xj. It definitely wasnt a budget build but then again look at half the jeeps on the site, they arent budget builds either...

But, they don't claim to be...

Anyway. Off the top of my head, and using quadratec's prices, I figure they've got about $4500 in their Cheep Cherokee, not including the frame-pulling, junkyard 8.8, or the steel for the bumpers, rollbar, rockerguards, and tire mount. Or the fancy Midas brake job... :rolleyes:

But $4500 into it, they're still running stock (355?) gears, driveshaft and slipyoke, and no skids.

I do like to see the XJ featured. I'm just saying my priorities were a little different...

Robert

[in2fords]

$4500 is not really a budget build. I was planning on being on a budget, Im into mine at $4500 +/- a few dollars. They have a nicer rig I think, we went different ways though. I have a 89 2dr and I am also at 4.5 inch, used C.A. drop brackets and new springs. all new: brakes, brake lines hard and soft, all sensors on engine, rebuilt motor with a 30 over, rebuilt XJ D44, rebuilt HP D30 non-disco, rebuilt np435/205 and stock 3.55 gears. custom grill/round light conversion, aluminum "race"dash with all aftermarket gauges used and new, scored a set of used stock gas/steering skid plates and a rear hitch, all new steering/TRE's and links, cut and welded way past the pinch weld to fit 35's and am spraying the paint myself.

I think their XJ is good looking but I am hoping my XJ is a much more reliable and capable rig both on and off the trail.

[Mudderoy]

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep/cheepjeep.htm

[NickThePyro]

Today's epposide wasnt to bad IMO. Its nice to see a XJ on the tube every now and then :)

[MG2000XJ]

The "claim" changes many peoples opinion, never really thought about that.

[srimes]

Y'all bitch too much. Thanks Ryan for responding on the board.

1st: it's budget for TV. Most of the "mild" rigs on there probably cost 3x as much. And it's gotta be pretty to be on TV. Hell, on tv even the ugly girls are pretty hot.

2nd: yeah, they got some tech wrong, and it's good to point that out. But I don't have a ton of experience, and it's great to learn details here, but seeing video is helpful too.

3rd: quit bitching about the tools. they show what can be done, and it doesn't all have to be done the same way or with your own tools. And w/ the torchmate they even showed how to do it manually.

I like the show even if I don't agree with everying I see. I get to watch it with my boy, who's 3, and thanks to trucks and the other powerblock shows probably knows more about cars and trucks than most kids 3 times his age.

If you want to really lean read a book, or naxja. If you want to get an idea of what it's like watch a tv show.

[MG2000XJ]

Exactly^

[Markvic]

I enjoyed the show today. I am glad they showed the 8.8 conversion since I am starting mine soon.

[Mudderoy]

I want that computer controled plasma cutter they made the front bumper with. Man oh man. I'd just have to move the bed out of the bed room!

Did anyone see a back bumper? I saw him make the front. I need to go back and watch them again.

Also I think I would have gone with a black on that bumper.

It's GREAT to see someone do something with an XJ on TV for a change.

[440swepty]

But $4500 into it, they're still running stock (355?) gears, driveshaft and slipyoke, and no skids.
Robert

I think the 8.8 had 4.10's with a limited slip and they upgraded the front when they did the locker. Kevin

[WrenchMonkey]

I think the 8.8 had 4.10's with a limited slip and they upgraded the front when they did the locker. Kevin

Now that you mention it, the 410s in the 8.8 sounds familiar, from week one.

I'll have to watch #3 again, see if I missed regearing the D30 to match...

Robert

[Maverickj1]

When will #3 be posted online for us to watch? I have been checking that website all day and it still says it hasn't aired yet.

[poorboy_616]

I have it on tape, yes tape. No DVR at my place.....

I didn't really gain anything from the show today.....

[Muad'Dib]

When will #3 be posted online for us to watch? I have been checking that website all day and it still says it hasn't aired yet.

As i have stated from the begining, it usually takes me 24 hours to get the episodes on the web for you guys.

With that being said, i should have episode 3 ready by mid-day tomorrow.

[Maverickj1]

Great, thanks! I wasn't trying to rush you, I was just wondering.

[BIGSLVRXJ]

I really enjoyed Episode 1 and 3. #2 somewhat lost my interest just because it wasn't solely about the XJ. The welding tips were very helpful to me since I plan on getting into it very shortly. I like a lot of the ideas used on the show, I think some are very original. I think it was great of Ryan to show interest in the build and to join this board.

[Kiefer316]

i really think they should mention NAXJA on the tube just cause alot of people that watch that stuff dont know about naxja one thing i think could also be done to the xj is a rear bumper and roof rack just for looks i really like the spare idea it was a neat place to put it and those seats were pretty cool lookin

[HaleYes]

i really think they should mention NAXJA on the tube just cause alot of people that watch that stuff dont know about naxja one thing i think could also be done to the xj is a rear bumper and roof rack just for looks i really like the spare idea it was a neat place to put it and those seats were pretty cool lookinKeep watching, NAXJA gets a few plugs. In the mean time, study punctuation.

[Muad'Dib]

Im sorry for the delay getting the latest episode live for you guys.. i have been busy moving.

With that being said, Episode 3 is now available on the video page:
http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185

Enjoy!

[WrenchMonkey]

I think the 8.8 had 4.10's with a limited slip and they upgraded the front when they did the locker. Kevin

Kevin was right. Just watched em again, the 8.8 was 410, and they did regear the 30 when they put in the Ected.

(I was too busy having a conniption fit over a $600 locker to notice!)

Robert

[mcraindog]

so are they going to wheel it? and show us?

[h2opete987]

anyone else notice how when they were talking about axle wrap and leaf springs, their animation had a cherokee, but it was SUA?

[alex22]

SUA?
please explain

The axle wrap animation was pretty cool thought, will come in handy next time somebody asks about using blocks.

~Alex

[srimes]

anyone else notice how when they were talking about axle wrap and leaf springs, their animation had a cherokee, but it was SUA?

Hey I didn't notice but now that you mention it I remember. Good eye, and the block shown would lower the truck. The concept still applies both ways though.

[h2opete987]

SUA? please explain
SUA = Spring Under Axle, like a commanche (i believe) or a wrangler.
the XJ is SOA, or Spring Over Axle, meaning that the leaf spring mounts over the axle tube.

[juniorXJ]

i noticed after i watched it on the DVR deal 3 days later.

[Dave41079]

Evidently I'm a functional retard, because I can't get the videos to play. I try the direct links and it gets about halfway through and just stops. I tried downloading it and it said that media player didn't have the proper codecs, so I clicked the link on the page that I thought would install the proper codecs, but all it did was add some Xvid program that I have no idea what it does or how it operates. A little help here? I'd at least like to see what all the fuss is about.

[Muad'Dib]

Evidently I'm a functional retard, because I can't get the videos to play. I try the direct links and it gets about halfway through and just stops. I tried downloading it and it said that media player didn't have the proper codecs, so I clicked the link on the page that I thought would install the proper codecs, but all it did was add some Xvid program that I have no idea what it does or how it operates. A little help here? I'd at least like to see what all the fuss is about.

Have you updated flash player like it says to do? That could be why they are not working for you.

The download section is where you can download the files to your computer to keep them. XVID is the codec i used to encode them. So the XVID thing you speak of basically allows you to view any video encoded with XVID.

For quicker responses and support, please contact me via my website.

[in2fords]

After its all said and done, Its a cools XJ and shows what can be done to one fairly easily. For those of us that know what we're doing (atleast I tell myself that) then we know where to take the short cuts, BB flairs/different lockers and where to use better parts, better design bumper and better quality lift. For the average Joe that will build one close to their's that is fine, they wont be getting into heavy offroading or will just be starting and will learn sooner then later on the building process.

[ricot83]

ya te animation was def SUA I was like WTF is that

[Dave41079]

I finally was able to watch all three episodes. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be from reading the things here. For a TV show it was an extremely low budget, and as has been stated before, you have to plug your sponsors, even on a "low buck build." The only things that I saw that seemed over the top were the ECTED and the BW flares. Throw in a lunchbox locker and some TJ flares and you just saved a heap of money. You don't have to buy a frame puller or CAD plasma to do what they did, they were just showing how the stuff works. The only thing I saw they should change completely was the front bumper mounts. Especially if they plan on putting a winch on there. Will it work with 3 bolts per side...probably...but why not do it a little better especially if you're making it yourself? And as far as the animation about axle wrap...who cares if it was spring over or under? It was showing you why things break and why you should go with a full pack instead of blocks or AALs.

[WrenchMonkey]

The only things that I saw that seemed over the top were the ECTED and the BW flares...

...and the $600 facelift, just to look pretty...

I admit I love to nitpick, but those three things are like $1600 in waste.

But yeah, that was the worst of it...

Robert

[Dave41079]

...and the $600 facelift, just to look pretty...

I admit I love to nitpick, but those three things are like $1600 in waste.

But yeah, that was the worst of it...

Robert

Yeah I forgot about that part. Of course if all those parts were sourced from a pick and pull instead of new, there likely wouldn't have been a difference in price of new style vs. old style. Yeah they could have saved cash here and there, but there was actually quite a bit of good tech, and some insight on how to get things done. It could have been better, but what else do we have to choose from really? It's nice to get some attention, especially considering the show chose to do an XJ instead of anything else they could have done on a budget.

[Mudderoy]

Maybe I mentioned this already, but buying replacement axles and u-joints from the junk yard is cheaper than buying two new u-joints?!?!? My concern would be what condition the junk yard u-joints were in even if they were cheaper.

[Dave41079]

They did that(as far as I can gather) to get rid of the disconnect axle, and to upgrade from 260 ujoints to 297 ujoints which are quite a bit larger.

[ricot83]

ya a lot of the places they are cutting corners do not make sense, but the junkyard ujoints were already in the non disconnect axle shafts as state above so that is why they did that.

all the body work and stuff like that that they did i think was a waste, the ford 8.8 idea was a great one to show on TV and it is an amazing upgrade, but they could have easily kept it as a junkyard/cheap build and got an 8.25 29 spline and just bolted it right in instead.

To each his own. The plus about getting an 8.8 is the disk brakes and ease of finding parts i suppose. that is the only reason i got one for mine

[xjcruiser90]

Hey, Muad'Dib

Thanks for posting the vids, I missed them when they were on.

--------
xjcruiser90
http://xjcruiser.com/

[xjcruiser90]

--------
xjcruiser90
http://xjcruiser.com/

[kj139]

I just freaked out when I saw Ryan as Stumpalump. I was thinking, "Man, I love the TV show, but I can't believe this is the same guy that caused so much BS on Naxja."

Glad to see they are not one and the same. Thanks for the clarification!

[MT Mike]

I just saw this over on JF. Thought I'd pass it on to all of you who have been watching the series.


Check out the show in the AM if you have time. Its a positive wheeling message and we "pay off " our XJ project. Let me know what you think. Thanks.
Ryan

Taken from this thread:

http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=564807

Hopefully Muad'Dib will put this show in his site also.

http://www.slicky.net/smilies/beer.gif

[HaleYes]

Watch for a mention of NAXJA and the giveaway XJ as well!;)

[markw]

Sounds cool. Cheep Cherokee disappointed me a bit. The bumper fab was cool, but the mounts will pull out. They tossed the stock tow brackets. :( The bumper needed to tie into the frame like the stock brackets did. The first good hit (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2wwPiLGtzg) on those rails is going to put nice dents in the rocker. :) The 8.8 is the easy way to go if you can't find a 44. Tivo is set on record since I'll be doing a steering box rebuild in the morning for Youtube. Durango box $100, kit $20, strength to rip out the frame rail, priceless. :)

[poorboy_616]

If it airs tommorow, I will have it on tape....

No DVR in my house.....

[DrMoab]

Maybe I mentioned this already, but buying replacement axles and u-joints from the junk yard is cheaper than buying two new u-joints?!?!? My concern would be what condition the junk yard u-joints were in even if they were cheaper.
They went from the small 260 sized joint to the larger and much stronger 297 joint.

One of the best upgrades you can do on a Turdy.

[mud1059]

$6200 was what they aired. So many things to say...

At least they promoted Tread Lightly and getting involved. That was the useful bit of the build.

[WrenchMonkey]

Ha! They ripped off a fancy-ass Bu$hwhacker!

$4500 is not really a budget build...

And neither is $6200... hasta

I've probably got about $6k in mine, and that's pretty much everything I could afford over five years of building it up... And I know mine would walk away from theirs... :D

But I do have to give em props for even admitting the budget, most shows gloss right over it...

Robert

[Muad'Dib]

Im in the middle of watching it right now... did anyone else notice the NAXJA sticker on the rear hatch!! ;)
I should have this episode live on my site on monday!


**EDIT**

I think i also just saw one in the middle of the windshield!

[srimes]

I liked it, and I liked how they popped off the fenders a couple times.

BTW, I have a '99 without ABS. Does this mean I have the 260 or 297 u-joints?

[440swepty]

I liked it, and I liked how they popped off the fenders a couple times.

BTW, I have a '99 without ABS. Does this mean I have the 260 or 297 u-joints?

From my experience most '95-up have the 297's. With or without ABS. Kevin

[WrenchMonkey]

BTW, I have a '99 without ABS. Does this mean I have the 260 or 297 u-joints?

Non-Disconnect, RS:

This axle first made it’s appearance in early XJs with the advent of the Select-Trac t-case. It does not use a disconnect, so the front driveshaft spins even in 2wd. The early axles came with 260 u-joints or an interesting CV design that tends to be somehwhat fragile. Sometime in the mid-90’s, the switch was made to 297/760 joints.

Robert

[srimes]

thanks guys

[NickThePyro]

I woke up just before noon so I missed it :(

[JeepFreak21]

I woke up just before noon so I missed it :(

The early bird gets the worm ;)

:D Billy

[srimes]

The early bird gets the worm ;)

:D Billy

either that or the bird with the right technology gets the worm. I was out wheeling this morning :sunshine: but my DVR got it. It's the only way to roll, er, sit.:greensmok

[kttrucks]

Hey Guys, KT from Trucks here. We'll I've read through this entire thread and I have to say.... holy crap! To quote Ryan... "Tough Crowd" Thanks for watchng the shows, and giving your opinions. I'll try not to come on here and defend what we did or showed to you guys... you know what you like and you know these vehicles better than me for sure ( although ryan's been wheelin them for alota years) Here's my perspective:

I grew up around Musclecars, vintage trucks, snowmobiles, dirtbikes and bodyshops, and I've never owned an XJ, or any Jeep for that matter. For a newbie to Jeeps, this XJ blew me away... I used to look at them when they rolled into shops that I worked at with eyes rolling back so far in my head that I got a headache... I've fixed more XJ hinge pillars that I can remember, and for a body tech these vehicles are a real pain to fix. HOWEVER! This (relatively) stock Jeep kicked ass on the trails, pulled like a V8, and never even hickupped at any stage of our build or payofff. (BTW... fenders =$67.00 ea. Header = $99.00 Keystone online store...... for me, It's not worth it to do another layer of repair on shit parts that are going to fit like A$$ and fall apart again anyway, time = money and low budget sometimes means time well spent. JMHO :) )

As far as the tools, while you guys slamming us for the high dollar tools we used ( CNC cutter, frame machine, etc...) we were talking (yes, I know, talking instead of showing... there's just so much time in a 30 minute show) about alternate ways to do things that dont cost much. I talked on one show about the frame repair being about 4 anda half hours in a qualified frame shop.... at the labor rates around us thats about a $250 dollar repair, not so bad since it includes fitting sheet metal.... yes the Mighty pull cost about $1800.00..... a comealong cost about 50.00.... I've seen pulling chains break, ( let alone a wound steel cable) anybody that's worked in frame repair or bodyshops thats reading this probably has too.... I've seen a full size X-cab truck get launched off a frame rack when a chain broke and all that tension was released, it's violent and dangerous and almost took off the head and shoulders off one of my good friends.... I dont advocate pulling with improper equipment... period. call me a pussy, I like my limbs intact! (and I say all of this with no venom... honestly).... Bottom line we wanted a safe repair too, and we have an obligation to NOT show you how to use an oak tree frame rack.... of which I've done also.. when I was young and stupid..

Overall inteded message..... I'm now a huge fan of Jeep and XJ platforms since having the opportunity to work on them on this show.... that's one more guy in your corner.

Keep the comments coming! critisizm is how we learn... all of us..... we dont take if personally when the comments are heated up... that just shows us thay you guys are passionate about these vehicles and that you've been down these roads before. Besides, if you werent throwing rocks, how would we know that you're still watching? Even Stacey would agree with that.

BTW, thanks for the compliments on Copperhead, I did the paint & body for Stacey on that one.


Thanks guys....

Kevin Tetz
Co-Host, Technical Poducer
TRUCKS! TV.

[DrMoab]

You have to understand that NAXJA members are the cheapest bastards on the planet. And they all think they can do better then someone else. :D

Personally, I liked the episodes...It was a good refresher from the normal $100K builds you see on the Saturday morning shows.

[kttrucks]

Thanks! Seriously, no ill will here.... sincere thanks for watching!

KT.

[kj139]

I would like a little more info on the paint. I know it was $70, but what was it, how much prep went into getting it to look that good, etc. I'm getting ready to paint mine and could certainly use the info.

[kttrucks]

OK, here's the skinny on the paintjob..... I prepped it with a 6 in D/A loaded with 320 dry and a red scuffing pad for the corners.... as you know there's alot of them on these Jeeps. I removed NOTHING masked everything and did what I call a "scuff -N-Shoot" on it. It took about 2 and a half hours to prep, and if ya look close it shows.... kinda lumpy. It looks better on TV than in person, but still not bad up close. The paint is PPG's light industrial coating factory packaged color. You can pick it up at any jobber that carries PPG. Kirker is another MFG of inexpensive paint, Eastwood now has their own line as well, but the PPG stuff was the cheapest. It's Acrylic Alkyd Enamel, the cheapest automotive paint known to man with a catylist... basically trailer paint but the good part is that it has fantastic gloss holdout, and its VERY easy to shoot. I used a gravity fed HVLP gun with a 1.3 fluid tip. I hammered (yes, hammered) three coats on it , first a tac coat (half coat with large overlap) then two fat wet coats for color coverage and gloss. I had a full quart left over after I was finished, but I added the catylist to the gallon so it went to puddin' after a few days.

Enamel stinks.... the overspray gets on EVERYTHING so make sure you're in a booth and have a shoot suit of some kind, or really do alot of prep to your garage so you dont have to rub overspary off your tools for weeks and weeks.

Hope this helps!

Thaks for watching.


KT.

[Hammered]

Speaking of hammered... its gonna be on out here in PA today... I'll tune in. I want to see some LeBaron hood vents go on this thing HAHAHA.

These shows (Power Block) are usually using lifts and stuff us Garage guys dont have... and or Parts / accessories Mr. Average Joe cant afford.

But I'll check it out. THEY NEED TO MAKE A REAL WORLD 4x4 / Junkyard Upgrade show.

[Dave41079]

DuPont's Imron is a pretty good choice too. It's cheap, ends up glossy, and is a single stage epoxy paint. Just remember, you get what you pay for. Most of a paint job is prep and finish work, and quality of materials.

[kttrucks]

Dave, I respecfully disagree with you about Imron. Last time I used it it cost me almost $300.00 for all the components (there are three) for a gallon setup and I've still got some loft over, but I'm out of hardner.... so to use it again I've gott a buy even more stuff. One of my big complaints about Dupont has been that it's expensive to use, because you have to buy large qualtities of the different components and it ends up costing lots to get everything you need regardless of how much you have to spray.

For an offroad rig it GREAT paint because its so freakin strong! I used to paint desert buggies for a guy who wouldnt put anything else on his cars. He claimed he could roll over and not even scratch the paint. Imron dries diamond-hard, which is why Peterbilt uses it on their paint lines for their open road trucks, but it's also the highest concentration of polyicicyanates (sp?) in any paint I know about... which makes it a tad more dangerous to use. If you use IMRON please make sure you use a fresh air supply to paint in. It's nasty stuff.

KT.

[Dave41079]

Dave, I respecfully disagree with you about Imron. Last time I used it it cost me almost $300.00 for all the components (there are three) for a gallon setup and I've still got some loft over, but I'm out of hardner.... so to use it again I've gott a buy even more stuff. One of my big complaints about Dupont has been that it's expensive to use, because you have to buy large qualtities of the different components and it ends up costing lots to get everything you need regardless of how much you have to spray.

For an offroad rig it GREAT paint because its so freakin strong! I used to paint desert buggies for a guy who wouldnt put anything else on his cars. He claimed he could roll over and not even scratch the paint. Imron dries diamond-hard, which is why Peterbilt uses it on their paint lines for their open road trucks, but it's also the highest concentration of polyicicyanates (sp?) in any paint I know about... which makes it a tad more dangerous to use. If you use IMRON please make sure you use a fresh air supply to paint in. It's nasty stuff.

KT.

Good point. I guess my view is a bit skewed as a close friend of mine does a lot of custom painting. I was comparing cost of materials to primer/base/gloss of a normal quality paint job. Then again...I sprayed 3/4 of my jeep with Duplicolor bed liner in a spray can. I'm one of those super cheap NAXJA guys. ;) I do agree though, the stuff is nearly indestructible.

[kttrucks]

That DUplicolor bedliner stuff is fantastic! Ian used it on an exocage he built and it barely scratched when he rubbed rocks and a tree. Kind of a cool look to it as well, we've used it alot for frame brackets and underbody stuff as well as the tub of our Fullsize Bronco last year. I wanna do a whole body with it sometime..... I bet it would be kinda "rat-Rod" looking.

KT

[Jes]

Thanks for mentioning Tread Lightly and responsable OHV usage on your show. Organizations like that, Blue Ribbon, United, etc. should be mentioned more often in shows geared towards OHV usage.

BTW, I liked the Jeep, reminds me of how mine was back in 2001. Now mine is not very streetable and I have more money in just my drivetrain than you guys put into that whole Jeep. I kinda miss driving the thing to the trails then driving it home... well, sometimes. :D

[Hammered]

So no hood vents. I'm offended. heh

[IllianaXJ]

Just watched the show for the second time today, the Jeep turned out nice. I also really appreciated the segments on public land use, it is nice to see an area like LBL showcased instead of a private hardcore park. It can be difficult to change the public's outlook on state land, hopefully the show clued in a few people. We have been fighting that at Redbird, and people are starting to come around.

[WrenchMonkey]

You have to understand that NAXJA members are the cheapest bastards on the planet. And they all think they can do better then someone else. :D

Amen! And I don't think that's a coincidence: We cheap bastards gravitate to the XJ because the trucks themselves have gotten so affordable, and (as your show did illustrate) it really doesn't much to build a really capable little rig...

I just got my nose bruised after you started the build promising that:

We're gonna call it our Cheep Cherokee, and continue that trend. We're gonna scrape together, beg borrow and steal parts, only spending money when we absolutely have to...

I do think you might have oversold it a bit. Like the good Doctor said, around here we know cheap!

Great build though, I really like that you didn't go crazy-tall with it: 33's on 3" is great.

And that did look like a NAXJA sticker on the tailgate... Thanks!

Keep making good TV, and we'll keep nitpicking the hell out of it!

Robert

[rstrucks]

Keep making good TV, and we'll keep nitpicking the hell out of it!

Robert

Deal!

Robert, thanks for the constructive critisizm. I've actully enjoyed it.

Ryan

[Clean Racing]

Thanks to Kevin and Ryan at trucks for the Tread lightly info... Now if we could spread that message over at Pirate... Keep up the good work guys..

[markw]

Kevin is one of my favorite hosts. I still kick myself for not taking autobody in high school when instead I took shop. My shop teacher was a friend of my dad's and he gave me crap for 3 years for taking shop when I knew the stuff already. :) Dad was an ASE mechanic, and I grew up in the garage helping him.
I like the body tips, and plan on a cheap paint job on the XJ.

As for the Cheep Cherokee, I'm glad they didn't use Rusty's. The socal guys have broken a ton of that stuff. Most everyone out here runs RE, since it's Hammer tested (Johnson Valley Hammers).

Those rock rails are going to lever right into the rocker on a good hit. They may be fine back east but again, we have rocks.

The bumper looked liked it used the stock mounts, which will pull out if you give a good tug on it. Tie the bumpers into the frame rails like those factory hooks you tossed. The factory tow hooks on the XJ are a very nice piece, and I'd be willing to bet you could airlift a cherokee with them. Highly desireable for guys with stock bumpers as recovery points are pretty much required on runs out here.

Overall though, great build, and I'm sure it will get more people into the XJ fold. If you want to see what we do with them out west, search for user kevin3151 on youtube. He's put up some great vids from trails around socal.

Oh, and if you weren't aware, Richard Gauthier (sp?) aka goatman took 7th in a Cherokee at the King Of The Hammers race this year. Budget rig against some of the highest buck rock crawlers in the country.

http://naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=944867

Keep up the good work!

[Muad'Dib]

Thanks Kevin and Ryan for joining this board, and talking to us about your projects. It definetly gives me a new found respect for you. You definetly care about the work you do and it shows.



As always everyone, you can view / download the episodes at the link below:

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185

I dont quite have the latest episode (Episode 4) ready yet, but i should have it on there tomorrow!

Thanks!

[NickThePyro]

Just got done watching it, great show guys! Nice to see NAXJA stickers on the boobtube :) Also good job promoting tread lightly.

[markw]

Same here, good job. Actually got it on a little rock pile. :) I noticed the thing on the leaks. I got mine dirt cheap thanks to the rear main seal. :)

Anyway, you mentioned the steering input shaft. Here's an idea for a future episode. Upgrade to a Durango or J20 steering gear box, showing a rebuild of a junkyard box without special tools. Use a crok or similar re-enforcement plate. Cheap upgrade to the steering for < $200.

If you keep going over rock piles you will bend the stock tie rod, show an upgrade to the ZJ parts or a generic aftermarket using 1 ton ends.

Again, excellent episode, good to see more cherokee stuff. It's a cheap way to get the family on the trail. Wife and kids love it. Oh, one question, does that $70 paint come in OD? :)

[poorboy_616]

I just watched that this morning, nice finish to the project.

I noticed TWO :NAXJA: Stickers on the XJ, one on the hatch, one top center of the windshield.

Also, the underside shot, I dont think was their XJ, the driveline and pumpkin are on the wrong sides....(Unless the used a mirror to get the angle right).....

Anyway, good pay off.

NOW, I want go and make mine a Dual purpose rig.....

[Mudderoy]

http://muckleroy.com/images/cheep_xj.jpg

http://muckleroy.com/images/cheep_xj1.jpg

http://muckleroy.com/images/cheep_xj2.jpg

[slcpunk74]

I watched the better part of the last episode and I give it good reviews. I will say the bushwackers were not my thing and I would have liked to have seen some bumpstops to keep the bw in check, but hey its tv. Good job on actually showing a real world xj. (I swear every poser thinks you need a long arm 8" lift to clear 33s on an xj.)

Keep the real world builds coming and the tech on tap guys.

[Hammered]

I guess you saw the buchwacker get knocked loose... I think pulled the bolt through,

[scottmcneal]

I guess you saw the buchwacker get knocked loose... I think pulled the bolt through,

What size bump stops did they use on that lift with 33s

[Mudderoy]

What size bump stops did they use on that lift with 33s

I'll have to go back and watch parts 1 - 3. I don't remember them saying anything about adding bumpstops.

[scottmcneal]

You think thats why he tore the flair?

[in2fords]

I just watched the last one, I like the way they gave a breakdown on cost. The way tehy did it shows people there are cheaper options. instead of BW flares I am using TJ flares, I went a little higher on the lift and cut the body in extreme to fit the 35's, went with a XJ D44 instead of a 8.8 and have stock front/gas skids/ tow hooks on cheapo bumpers were the things I did similar. I did a non disco D30 in front without the larger shafts and Im open front & rear on 3.55 gear's for the things they did better. I completely stripped and bedlined the interior, made a custom dash with all after market gauges, swapped in a np435/205 and have all the things waiting for me to build my 203 crawl box that will replace the stock trans-tcase adapter and keep the mounts and shafts in the same place so it wont cost anymore.
Im at 2/3rds their budget, after I do the crawl box I will have better gearing and once I swap in the lockers I feel mine will be a better dual purpose rig and we will be at about the same price.
They only took a couple months at most to build, Im still wrenching on mine after a year and a half.
Its TV, they dont have the time to invest into research as deep as we do, they can get away with a larger budget where we cant.
all in all, good show to get someone started in looking at a XJ as a build platform.

Jeremy

[Mudderoy]

Even though I did some 4x4'ing years ago I am learning more now by far. I was thinking that before I could do some serious off roading I would need to trim my fenders. Before I do that I want the bushwacker flares. So what I have now is a nice rig with good lift for basically high water on paved roads.
Not bad for Houston.

I hear you guys talking about bump stops and I am wonder if I can use bump stops to get my tires off my fenders. I think the answer is yes.

My next upgrade is the 4.56 gears. I have that lined up (parts on the way and mechanic lined up) so now I'm going to look into bump stops.

It would be great to be able to get off road before I have to spend another bucket of money.

[markw]

Even though I did some 4x4'ing years ago I am learning more now by far. I was thinking that before I could do some serious off roading I would need to trim my fenders. Before I do that I want the bushwacker flares. So what I have now is a nice rig with good lift for basically high water on paved roads.
Not bad for Houston.

I hear you guys talking about bump stops and I am wonder if I can use bump stops to get my tires off my fenders. I think the answer is yes.

My next upgrade is the 4.56 gears. I have that lined up (parts on the way and mechanic lined up) so now I'm going to look into bump stops.

It would be great to be able to get off road before I have to spend another bucket of money.

We refer to them as bushcrackers out here. The tend to get broken, and cost a good chunk of change. TJ's are an alternative, or just trace a line on your stock flares, and cut there, then raise them. Re-attach with some 1/4-20 bolts and lock washers and your done. RE 5.5 lift with just raised/trimmed stock flares, no issues.

Almost forgot and this is for the Cheep Cherokee too. Once you go to 33's, the tire can hit the brake line and rip it off. Move the brakline closer to the center of the axle. I've got mine almost behind the shock now.

[Jester99]

Well after watching closely and being skeptical at first you guys did a great job on the XJ. Big props for the Naxja stickers too! And Kevin...I have to agree in all areas about the Imron, but you do get what you pay for. My father has a paint store which I have worked on and off in for the last 5 years and we have never received a complaint about the Imron stuff. I got stuck mixing 10 gallons of that stuff one day and only made it through 5 before getting sick and having to go home, and that was wearing a respirator :gag:.

What are the plans for the XJ now? If you guys part it out or something I would very much like to buy that bumper. That thing is sick.

BTW what does it take to get a DuPont product like Standox used on a project for Powerblock!? All I ever see is PPG and HoK! The Hot Hues on that truck looked killer though...

[rocknxj]

Hey Kevin and Ryan, thanks for an outstanding show and special thanks for focusing on the beloved XJ. You guys did a fantastic job on the project and I for one am grateful that another Cherokee has been resurrected from the dead and is alive to roam the trails once again.

We here on the forum are fanatics about the XJ so we will be a tad more harsh when it comes to opinions about the venerable Cherokee. For most of us, when we are not wheeling our Jeep, we are dreaming about wheeling our Jeep. When we are not under our Jeep, we are thinking about mods to put on our Jeep. We are fanatical about our Cherokees, which just means we are right in the middle of stupid and crazy.

Long live the XJ.

[mcraindog]

i unfortionatly missed on tv...when will it be posted here...http://www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep/cheepjeep.htm

[w_howey]

First... Kevin and Ryan... A HUGE thank you for having the courage to come one here with the crazy obsessed group here and hear what we had to say.

Second... Thank you for making the show watchable again. There were a couple of seasons there that were just wrong...

I guess I run a little bit different than some of the comments you guys are getting. I don't consider $6200 to be too bad of a price for a build from a drag home to a wheeler. Yes, there were places you could have cut some corners. But we do realize that you have advertising contracts to meet so that has to figure into a TV build.

I don't consider spending money on good tools to be a waste. Buying something like your Mighty-Pull might be $1800 up-front but how many times over the next 20 years might I have a use for something like that???

But once again, Thanks alot for making the Cherokee episodes. I certainly appreciated them.

[BIGSLVRXJ]

Kevin and Ryan-you two are awesome and make a great team. I appreciate all you guys did and especially for taking the initiative to come on here. Because of how you conduct the show, I will probably download the rest of the Trucks! episodes through iTunes just so I can watch them (it seems I'm never inside on the weekend). I like the way the whole thing is setup and the ideas you have. Thanks again fellas you really helped us out.
-Collin

[kttrucks]

Wow! Thanks for the kind words!..... where are all the guys that were hackin on us? LOL! I agree, there was about a season and a half that we were sorting things out...( diplomatic statement #223) Thanks for hanging in with us. I think Ryan should market that bumper design..... aparently it added structural rigidity to those frame rails, because it didnt pull off the unibody even once.... I'm not disagreeing that those mounts may be a weak point, it's just that we never intended on hard-corring a basically stock rig, so it's all about dose-and-duration and the whole scope of the build didnt call for the added weight of a multi point mounting system. The way they're made it would be very easy to attach some supports and tie it into the frame.... maybe a future episode? Thanks for the tip on the brakelines as well... out back it was a non- issue with the new rear axel, we locked them well out of the way.... out front we didnt have any issues, even with the wheel stuffed, but it's something to consider regardless.... no brakes = no brakes = not fun wheelin.

Now I have a question........ what's the cheapest XJ that anyone here has built? Tell the truth!, add up all the trips to the parts counter, every little added on part..... let us know what a dirt cheap budged build is over here.... This is an honest question not a counterpoint.... wew know we could have been a little cheaper without a winch and high lift jack.... off road lights, E-locker blah blah blah.... but tell us your story.



KT.

[Mudderoy]

Keep the comments coming! critisizm is how we learn... all of us..... we dont take if personally when the comments are heated up... that just shows us thay you guys are passionate about these vehicles and that you've been down these roads before. Besides, if you werent throwing rocks, how would we know that you're still watching? Even Stacey would agree with that.



Thanks for taking the time to come by and post. Needless to say, I was very interested in your 4 part XJ series and I made sure I saw each one of them. It was great seeing it out on the trail to.

And yes, we are cheap bastards! lol

[XJ Stryker]

Now I have a question........ what's the cheapest XJ that anyone here has built? Tell the truth!, add up all the trips to the parts counter, every little added on part..... let us know what a dirt cheap budged build is over here....



KT.


So far Mine is 1500. I have tow points all around 3 in lift. And a good running motor.

http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=951490


The Black one was the Cheeper build. Not too Rugged yet but it is coming around.

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg274/robbymac27/Black%20Jeep/DSC03254.jpg

[Mudderoy]

Now I have a question........ what's the cheapest XJ that anyone here has built? Tell the truth!, add up all the trips to the parts counter, every little added on part..... let us know what a dirt cheap budged build is over here.... This is an honest question not a counterpoint.... wew know we could have been a little cheaper without a winch and high lift jack.... off road lights, E-locker blah blah blah.... but tell us your story

Ok lets see...

1) 98 Jeep XJ $24,000 with Up Country package
2) RC 4.5" lift $595
3) BFG 32x11.5x15 tires (x5) $835
4) American Racing Baja 15x10 alloy wheels $500
5) Replacement NP242J drive chain $110
6) 4.56 gears for HP Dana30, C 8.25 master kits, and carrier $520
7) New speedo gear $25
8) Being able to drive around traffic during next hurricane evacuation ---- priceless

So I have about $2595 (minus the $24k for the Jeep) in it now.

I figure that after the 4.56 gears are installed I still have the following...

1) Bushwacker flares - $400
2) Rock sliders with weld points - $440
3) Powertrax auto locker for the rear - $420
4) Rear bumper with tire carrier - $750
----------- This is where my wife leaves ---------
5) Front bumper with winch mount point - $850
6) Winch - $500
7) Selectable locker for Dana 30 - $1000 (locker and air compressor)
8) Snorkle - $400

The day after I get everything installed, the transmission will quit! :laugh:

Oh and I still need upper control arms, disconnects, adjustable trackbar, blah blah blah. The more I read and learn on NAXJA the more I have to spend :thumbup:

http://muckleroy.com/images/jeep_lift19.jpg

[slcpunk74]

Not exaxtly what you were looking for but...

AS IT SITS(jeepspeed build in early stages)
1994 4 door auto 4.0 2wd!!! $400 (minor front end damage)
new hood, front grill/header panel, and a good used rad $200
rubicon express 4.5" leafs and coils (good/ used) $250
rubicon express lowers and drop brackets (good/used/need new bushings) $150
Running total $1000

If this were ment for wheeling and it were 4wd you could add some junkyard brake lines,hack the fenders, find some uppers, get some welding rod(for the rear), and have yourself a wheeler... Well for the most part

My friend and I are splitting this build right down the middle on cost so we plan to be into it on the cheap side of 2-3k each( plan :rof: )

[Boghog1]

1988 Jeep Cherokee $1500
Repair front end after wife crashed it $500
Replace AC condenser $200
OME Lift $600
Ford 8.8 and newer Dana 30 with 4.88 $700
33" TrXus $650
33" Swamper Radials with AR Black Steelies $400
99 Grand Brake Booster and Master $70
TJ Flares $50
Trailer Hitch $50
Paint job $100
Misc parts for repairs $100
so far $4920 but I have owned it since 1999 so over the course of 10 years it is not too bad

[poorboy_616]

I will say this, now that I have seen the whole series, you won't hear anymore complaints from me about the show.

My 87 XJ may be stock for now, but the tips and tricks as well as ideas from your show will be used when I finally start my build up.

Again, thanks for the great show, AND the pay off was worth the wait.

[Muad'Dib]

Ok, the payoff episode aka Episode 4, is now available on the video page...

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185 (http://www.jeepstrokers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=185)


Enjoy!!

[HaleYes]

Thanks Maud'Dib!

I'm usually busy on the weekend and don't get to watch.
I wouldnt' have seen any of the Cheep Jeep stuff if not for you.

The best part? No commercials!!

Thank you!:thumbup:

[MT Mike]

Thanks Maud'Dib!

I'm usually busy on the weekend and don't get to watch.
I wouldnt' have seen any of the Cheep Jeep stuff if not for you.

The best part? No commercials!!

Thank you!:thumbup:

x's 2! :yelclap:

[Muad'Dib]

No problem fella's, glad i could be of assistance.

Its also nice to have them permanently for future reference. Makes it easier when your doing something and you ask yourself "how did they do that again?".

Im very much a visual learner...

[homebrew]

Im about 4 grand into mine including the original purchase price of 800 bucks.

Another big thanks for the show and for representing us here on naxja

O yeah I love the cherry bomb exhaust upgrade, I like it because it takes away the flat edge that you would have with a normal muffler, less to get caught on the rocks, and cheap to replace got mine for 20 bucks at the local pepboys

[shelbyluvv]

Now I have a question........ what's the cheapest XJ that anyone here has built? Tell the truth!, add up all the trips to the parts counter, every little added on part..... let us know what a dirt cheap budged build is over here.... This is an honest question not a counterpoint.... wew know we could have been a little cheaper without a winch and high lift jack.... off road lights, E-locker blah blah blah.... but tell us your story.



KT.

Great show fellas. Glad to see our little XJs have made believers out of somemore people!

As to your question on who has built the cheapest XJ. I am building a SUPER low buck rig as wee speak.

It is a 94 2 door with a 2.5, 4x4, HP30, 8 1/4 rear, stolen rear shocks, and it already has a 2" BB!
So far,
I bought it for $300
$100 on a used engine
$150 for 2" wheel adapters
$30 shipped on a t-case skid
$20 for the paint job (10 cans of wallyworld white spray paint, tape, 300 grit sand paper, rubbing alcohol as a degreaser, and old newspapers)
was given a set of wheels from a JK, free set of 265/75/16s, and some MJ rear shocks

I am almost ready for the trails, I need a few more parts to finish it. Which are a tank skid, rear hitch, front tow points, and cheap lockers.

My total budget is $1000 and not a penny more.

I spent over $11K on my last XJ build and promised myself I will build a low buck beater that can be driven to and from the trails.

I will meet my goal and budget. I just need to wait for the "deal" to come around.

[poorboy_616]

Clarifiication on my 87....

2dr, White Bonestock.

Used to belong to the US National Park service in Oregon.

I so far have put in about $800 including the cost of the vehicle ($600)
Brake Master Cylinder ($30)
Found out it WAS a 5spd (pukegoat), now an AW4 :clap:
Full tune-up ($60)
New(er) seats from an 89 2dr.($40)
Transfered my Sony head unit from my old Mazda p/u (free)
Made a cargo shelf from scraps from our remodel project (free)
Removed the carpet, and subsequent rust, then pained the floor in prep for herculiner $15.00 for paint and supplies)
double checked EVERY fastener under the thing, just to be sure of no surprises
Replacement speedocable ($45)
Replacement bulbs ($20.00)


Future plans:
2" RE Budget Boost (cause it matches the wheeling I intend to do)
30x9.50 BFG All Terrains
Possible disc brake conversion (though the D44 brakes should be fine)
Possible master/booster swap so I can gain more affective braking power
Winch and bumpers
Aux. Lighting

[rifle6]

i missed the episode and have not seen it come up again.
i really wanted to see the door hinge fix.
does anyone have link or pics that show the fix in detail?

[Smittty9785]

did anyone get it on tape or tivo?? Id like to see it. Maybe post it up on you tube

[HaleYes]

did anyone get it on tape or tivo?? Id like to see it. Maybe post it up on you tube

See post 194 of this very thread.
:rolleyes:

[XJ Stryker]

did anyone get it on tape or tivo?? Id like to see it. Maybe post it up on you tube


or you can just check here


http://www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep/

[Muad'Dib]

I guess some people dont read :P

[AlabamaDan]

Well I enjoyed it and even more knowing the guys came on here to post. I know they spent more money that we'd have to, but hey they were probably given a budget of 10K and do you see most of the stuff they build!

I like the Bushwacker flares. Ok, to let leave them off but at the prices KT paid why not. Nothing wrong with having a dent free truck for a few more hundred.

BTW, I had DuPont's Imron on my 1973 Ford Torino Sport and that's great paint! It looked good even after having been broadsided into a telephone pole. Probably looked good sitting in a junkyard for years afterwards. That's what I'm going to use on my XJ if I ever get through the drivetrain and stop that stupid leak!

[AlabamaDan]

AND, did you notice that Ryan even chimed in on a couple of tech threads. Good for him!

[Tito_73*]

Wow what a long thread, it's been quite sometime since my last post. I just finished reading this informative thread. First of all kudos to Kevin & Ryan for posting. I watched all 4 episodes & I have to say I really liked the way project cheep jeep turned out. I am pretty new to the wheeling scene. I bought my 89 Laredo 4 door in July of 2005. I thought I didn't need 4X4 so I bought it. Okay so I underwent a 4X4 conversion. It cost me around $350 for the drivetrain parts, ( h.p. Dana 30, np231, AW4). I've also installed a skyjacker 3" lift kit with leaf springs. Procomp extreme polished alluminum wheels 16", Yokohama LT265/75R16's, rebuilt my Dana 35 (mistake I know), & the best upgrade I think rebuilt my 4.0 & stroked it using a comp cams camshaft and sealed power pistons, & blah blah blah now I'm just ranting sorry. My 2 cents is if you really want to be cheap, be cheap. I think as long as you feel that your money was well spent and your rig performs the way you want it to then that is what counts. I do want to thank everyone on this forum as your advice is great when I need it. I know now to check naxja when planning something else for my XJ. Oh yeah one last thing Trucks! Has gotten better since Stacey left. My totals, over 5K not so cheap but she's a gold digger!

[hollywood32]

Now I have a question........ what's the cheapest XJ that anyone here has built? Tell the truth!, add up all the trips to the parts counter, every little added on part..... let us know what a dirt cheap budged build is over here.... This is an honest question not a counterpoint.... wew know we could have been a little cheaper without a winch and high lift jack.... off road lights, E-locker blah blah blah.... but tell us your story.



KT.

Okay mine is pretty close to yours except not a daily driver but is still street legal as long as they don't look to closely. I will say that if mine was a daily driver I would spend the extra 300 bucks for a selectable front locker as you did. Price seems pretty close I did fab some stuff that you bought and you fabed some stuff that I bought so it should was out.



93 XJ 4.0L 4x4 country 4 door invovled in minor wreck $350.00 4.5 lift w/h 33" tires & Wheels + Brake lines+ lower arms + adjustable track bar $1,200.00 12 cans of PB blaster $50.00 Front Aussie locker $250.00 Custom Cage $500.00 AJ's Front Bumper $350.00 Home fabbed Rear bumper and gas tank skid $75.00 AJ's Rock Rails $250.00 Mile Marker 8000lb Winch $400.00 Synthetic Winch line $125.00 CB + Antenna $80.00 Hunsacker suspension seats $250.00 Paint (Not done yet but supplies are purchased) $135.00 MISC… Nuts, bolts, spray paint, etc… $200.00 Power steering cooler $30.00 Junk yard rear dana 44 (planned but not purchased yet $350.00 Junk yard front axle shafts upgrade $125.00 PRP rear suspension bench $325.00 4 Crow 5 point Harnesses - Good deal on expired racing straps. $200.00 NAXJA membership (essential for my fabrication plagiarism) $35.00
$4,930.00
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v383/thomashaze/ClegFlexPic.jpg

[redkling]

where can I find a parts list of the parts used?

[rstrucks]

where can I find a parts list of the parts used?

If you go to PowerblockTV.com and look under "TRUCKS!" and "episodes" it will list all the parts used in that show. Just click on the episode you want to find parts info on.

Ryan

[Rob Mayercik]

Downloaded and viewed all four episodes the other night - saw the first on TV a while back, the rest were new to me.

Honestly I thought the build came out great. I'd agree that for winching/recovery that probably the front bumper mounts should have followed the design of the OEM tow hook brackets you pulled off, but that was really the only thing I think I'd disagree with from a technical standpoint.

I do have a question about the door hinge repair - I like the idea of putting a thicker piece of metal and bolting the body-side hinge plate down, but by welding that thicker plate to the existing unibody, haven't you just created a new version of the same stress point that originally failed in the first place? I'll admit that I've never welded a thing and probably wouldn't know which end of the welder to hold, but if the weight of the door is enough to crack the factory welds, why wouldn't it crack the welds joining the reinforcement plate and the body pillar? Does mounting the plate flush with the body make the plate more "integral" after burning in and therefore stronger than the original attachment scheme?

Finally, it was cool to hear that Kevin had something of an XJ "awakening" - these so-called "grocery getters" never seem to fail to surprise folks when they show their mettle on the trail. I'm starting to think that in offroad terms, the XJ's practically a sleeper vehicle in stock to slightly modified form.

Rob

[dave92cherokee]

Tieing the plate into the unibody for the hinges will stop the hinge problem. The hinge problem arises because the factory welds the top, bottom, and front but not the back of the hinge to the unibody. So when the door swings out to hard it starts cracking the welds from the back where it isn't welded and pushes the front in.

[markw]

Finally, it was cool to hear that Kevin had something of an XJ "awakening" - these so-called "grocery getters" never seem to fail to surprise folks when they show their mettle on the trail. I'm starting to think that in offroad terms, the XJ's practically a sleeper vehicle in stock to slightly modified form.

Rob

Heh, that's why there's http://www.gotgroceries.net :)

[markw]

Wow! Thanks for the kind words!..... where are all the guys that were hackin on us? LOL! I agree, there was about a season and a half that we were sorting things out...( diplomatic statement #223) Thanks for hanging in with us. I think Ryan should market that bumper design..... aparently it added structural rigidity to those frame rails, because it didnt pull off the unibody even once.... I'm not disagreeing that those mounts may be a weak point, it's just that we never intended on hard-corring a basically stock rig, so it's all about dose-and-duration and the whole scope of the build didnt call for the added weight of a multi point mounting system. The way they're made it would be very easy to attach some supports and tie it into the frame.... maybe a future episode? Thanks for the tip on the brakelines as well... out back it was a non- issue with the new rear axel, we locked them well out of the way.... out front we didnt have any issues, even with the wheel stuffed, but it's something to consider regardless.... no brakes = no brakes = not fun wheelin.

Now I have a question........ what's the cheapest XJ that anyone here has built? Tell the truth!, add up all the trips to the parts counter, every little added on part..... let us know what a dirt cheap budged build is over here.... This is an honest question not a counterpoint.... wew know we could have been a little cheaper without a winch and high lift jack.... off road lights, E-locker blah blah blah.... but tell us your story.


KT.

The brakelines I'm refering to are the front ones. I almost ripped a set off, and I've watched them get ripped off. No brakes are not a good thing.

Mine's somewhere around yours in price. Built it over a couple years. Sat on the lift kit until I had axles and SYE.

Bushwhackers in socal are usually not seen as we have rocks, and more rocks. $500 on a set of flares that will break on your first trip to Johnson Valley isn't money well spent.

There are a ton of socalxj guys and guys in the naxja socal forum who haven't found socalxj yet that wheel these things on 33's and 35's on some of the toughest trails around with hardly any damage.

Maybe they should have some sort of cheap jeep challenge. The wrangler guys would get their rears handed to them from the XJ crowd. Now I need to go back and research the $70 paint job and sign up for the autobody class at the adult center this summer to get use of their booth. :)

[92XJT]

Mine seems to be a lot cheaper then a few on here, did get some good deals on it. I still have the XJ episodes on my DVR - overall a pretty good build.

Here's my build price / specs:
92 XJ sport 2 dr, 4.5" lift - $1300
sold spare items: -$310
5 - 33x14x15 boggers - $600
4 new rims - $142
8.25 rear axle with 4.56 gears and locker - $350
extra 8.25 shafts - $30
D30 4.56 gears - $100
Gear install + axle seals, and pinion yoke - $300
Master install kit - $150
Herculiner - $60
O-ring oil filter kit - $4.95
1.75" blocks - $5
Rear bumper with tire carrier - $200
CB - $50 with antenae mount
winch - freebee from my old truck when I traded it in
Rusty's winch bumper - $200
Rear storage deck - $50
D30 shafts - $50

3281.95 for a total current build. Now if you want to get technical, I have two more parts I bought but haven't installed:

1 - metal tail light housings with lenses - $90
2 - 4.5" lift upper control arms - $125

So grand total for everything would be - 3496.95

http://s5.photobucket.com/albums/y198/Off_Road_Ram_01/Badlands%20May%2024th%202008/?action=view&current=100_2246.jpg

[92XJT]

Okay let's try the pic thing again - lol, sorry

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y198/Off_Road_Ram_01/Badlands%20May%2024th%202008/100_2246.jpg

[aparke4]

yeah that build is way better than the one on trucks because it really is budget built - i mean their total was over 6k right?shoot you can get a great rig already built for that... i wish they had scrounged more in the yards but it came out pretty clean

[markw]

I T-boned a 98 Dakota and totaled it, had the factory tow hooks and front receiver hitch. Minimal damage, bent bumper, broken factory fogs, cracked 1 rib on the grill, broke a clip for the headlight. I recovered $1400 out of them and spent $900 on an AJ bumper and summit AW-9000 winch, so my total budget spent decreased by $500 right?? :) Same with my D44, found it and an 8.8 in the JY, got the 8.8 for $75 and the 44 for 150, sold the 8.8 for 300, so I started with negative 75 in the D44, still spent a grand on locker and shafts and gears. (Yes you can snap a stock shaft with 33's.) Building them completly from junkyard parts can be done, but carry spares. We frequent places like Johnson Valley a lot, and break stuff you guys back east would never break. :)

[cherokee chuck]

my son bought a wrecked 95 for $400. with the same type of front end damage only on the drivers side. We used a my 10 ton porta power to straighten the frame & square up the inner structure,straightened the bent axle{since replaced} straightened the fender, used J.B.weld to repair the header panel & replaced the tie rod with an $18.50 pull-a-part used one,set the toe in.centered the steering wheel and he was driving it,A set of wrecking yard wheels and tires {$100.}quadratec budget lift{$112.95} and we had a cheap presentable Jeep for less than you guys had in your ford 8.8 .He now has real suspension w/alcas & procomp rear leafs & Maxis bighorns.It;s now a real trail rig and sharp looking too, for about $2,000 total investment. Now that is a cheap Jeep.But being a retired body and fender tech did help.Don't get me wrong, I watch your show every weekend & love your not so cheap Jeep.Wanna trade?

[WrenchMonkey]

Now that is a cheap Jeep.

:yelclap: :yelclap: :yelclap:

Robert

[Spanky88]

they brought the xj back for a rebuild of the engine

[philagony94xj]

Yeah i'm watching it right now. Can you believe it only made 35 HP in 4wd!!!! Now thats a shot engine! And once they get the engine torn down you can definetly see why.

[WrenchMonkey]

they brought the xj back for a rebuild of the engine

Then stopped in the middle for a ten-minute commercial for their new robotic plasma cutter...

So they could make a really fancy license plate. With their name on it.

:banghead:

Robert

[Muad'Dib]

I just woke up so i havent had a chance to check my DVR. If they are doing another episode about the Cherokee ill make another online video page for it... (unless they are making it part of the cheep jeep build which i doubt).

Here is the original page:

www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep

[black_771]

Wow, this is a tough crowd. I for one loved the segment and don't mind the use of tools I will never use because its the right way to do something. A lot of flack for using a tool (the frame puller) that most of us don't even need. If you don't have a bent up XJ, just wait for the part that applies to you. I'm really just happy that the XJ made the show! i have it on DVR and watch the wheelin' part over and over. Looks like a ton of fun!

I was very interested in the $70 paint job and quite frankly, I will say it again, I liked that they did an affordable truck rather then the outrageous stuff like Extreme does. Couldn't care less about a $50k "truggy" with a huge stereo. Lame!

I have DVR'd this weeks show and am curious to see it now that I hear the XJ is back! Sweet!

[FlexdXJ]

I just woke up so i havent had a chance to check my DVR. If they are doing another episode about the Cherokee ill make another online video page for it... (unless they are making it part of the cheep jeep build which i doubt).

Here is the original page:

www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep (http://www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep)

Yes please do i missed it because they had some stupid UFC crap on yesterday instead of powerblock! Then i had to go run some errands today! I saw that they were building it into a stroker motor! :clap:

[Spanky88]

yeah they just tore it down today. determined the crank was $h!t and sent the block out and checked the head for cracks. i think theyre keeping the renix head. couldnt they use a ho head for better flow?

[tbburg]

I saw that they were building it into a stroker motor! :clap: Wow! A wopping 36Hp on the dyno at the end!
I really love the way the rod could visibly move up and down on the crank journal:eek:

Man that thing was close to dead!

[FlexdXJ]

Wow! A wopping 36Hp on the dyno at the end!
I really love the way the rod could visibly move up and down on the crank journal:eek:

Man that thing was close to dead!

Ouch! I would like to see it!

[tbburg]

...,theyre keeping the renix head. couldnt they use a ho head for better flow?Nope! they went with the early HO head.

[Muad'Dib]

Nope! they went with the early HO head.

It sounds like that answer should have been no they are not going with the RENIX head.. they are going with a early HO head. With the HO head (hopefully the 7120) they will have a better flowing head to use.

Now with that out of the way, i still havent watched the video .. but its on my DVR. Im hoping by the end of the day tomorrow ill have it online for everyone. Ill post here again when its done.

Also keep an eye out on the JeepStrokers site for more info!


Thanks!

[winterbeater]

It's cool to see the Cherokee stuff on TV. They didn't go for the Dana 60's and the quadra link fancy shit.

[Muad'Dib]

To give you guys an update, i now have the latest episode available online for your viewing pleasure:

Cheep Jeep Part 5 "Budget Stroker"

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep/

Enjoy!

[BPB]

After seeing that I am afraid to put my mj on a dyno!!

[FlexdXJ]

To give you guys an update, i now have the latest episode available online for your viewing pleasure:

Cheep Jeep Part 5 "Budget Stroker"

http://www.jeepstrokers.com/cheepjeep/

Enjoy!

Thanks man! That was informative for sure now i think when i get a Garage I may have to stroke the motor in the 97! :D

[LilRedDakota]

They found the same slug that was in the first show, I'm shocked, can you say:fuse: one or two more dyno runs and :puke: no need for a tear down from the looks of things:laugh3:

[igotanxj]

Did anybody else notice that they said the stock crank throw was 3.4 inches? And the 4.2 crank throw was 3.9 inches? That would make a stroke of 7 and 8 inches!!

[c17load83]

I'm gonna have to make time to watch it now. Its great to the cherokee getting a little tv love.

[tbburg]

After seeing that I am afraid to put my mj on a dyno!!A dynometer run is about the hardest thing you can do to an engine. Even drag racing won't put as much stress on the motor/powertrain. I know they were doing it for TV, but putting a 100K-mile motor with a knock on a chassis dyno is kind of stupid.

[sharq]

A dynometer run is about the hardest thing you can do to an engine. Even drag racing won't put as much stress on the motor/powertrain. I know they were doing it for TV, but putting a 100K-mile motor with a knock on a chassis dyno is kind of stupid.

what difference does it make? they were planning on rebuilding the motor anyway.

[chedisme]

whats so hard on it? not getting cool air flow? sorry if its a dumb question, im sure I could find it if i spent some time on google. but im feeling lazy this one time.

[sharq]

whats so hard on it? not getting cool air flow? sorry if its a dumb question, im sure I could find it if i spent some time on google. but im feeling lazy this one time.

i imagine its the numerous wide open throttle runs used to get their baseline numbers.

[tbburg]

whats so hard on it?It wouldn't surprise me if most of the cars on the road have never seen 100% power. Auto industry's dirty little secret: The engines are not designed to put out 100% power. Most of them are designed for 15-20% continuous or less.

If you really romp on your jeep on the street, or off road, how long do you keep it floorboarded? How much of that time is the motor producing max power?(answer; if you're still accelerating, in any gear, at any speed, the motors probably not producing max power for that engine speed :D)

To pull a dynamometer run, you start at what ever RPM the test starts at, then load the engine until it can't speed up at WOT. 'Take your reading, then start speeding up. Through the whole run, the engine is operating at maximum power. The motor(any street motor) can't take that for long.

[igotanxj]

It wouldn't surprise me if most of the cars on the road have never seen 100% power. Auto industry's dirty little secret: The engines are not designed to put out 100% power. Most of them are designed for 15-20% continuous or less.

If you really romp on your jeep on the street, or off road, how long do you keep it floorboarded? How much of that time is the motor producing max power?(answer; if you're still accelerating, in any gear, at any speed, the motors probably not producing max power for that engine speed :D)

To pull a dynamometer run, you start at what ever RPM the test starts at, then load the engine until it can't speed up at WOT. 'Take your reading, then start speeding up. Through the whole run, the engine is operating at maximum power. The motor(any street motor) can't take that for long.

Hmm thats not how I've seen it done in my personal experience. Back in my UTI days in Hot Rod U I personally drove a Ford Lightning on a chassis dynamometer. I basically drove the car up to speed to get it through all gears, then hold that speed as if you were cruising at around 40-50mph or so, then they said GO! and i floored it, the trans downshifted and it pulled through the RPM range from about 3000 rpm all the way to 6000 rpm or so at which time I let off the gas. While I was in the cab, it literally felt no different than flooring it on an onramp till you get up to 90mph or so. There was no lugging or anything abnormal. About a minute later the intructor posted up the Hp and Tq number up on the screen.

Before that, I took my mustang to a chassis dyno and stood by it while the guy put it through its paces. My mustang was a manual tranny, but otherwise the process was no different. He brought it up to speed and cruised in 4th gear, then pushed a button and floored it and took it to 6000rpm. As I was watching it, it also seemed no different than if i were to do the same thing on the freeway- no extra lugging or extra time at a certain RPM.

[tbburg]

Well, that was disappointing. Apparently they finished the motor, but didn't cover the re-install or dyno the result(yet). 'Would have liked to see what if any tuning was needed to get it running.

'Got a long arm kit though! ( ? )

Maybe I missed an episode?

[scottmcneal]

Just go to the site, they have each episode..I think..

[tbburg]

Well, I just went and looked. Episode 6 was engine reassembly and paint the engine compartment, episode 7 is driving it around. 'Didn't miss anything. Maybe they'll cover tuning when they dyno it. 'Hope we don't have to wait 4 months for the next installment.

[Wayne Sihler]

I just ordered the two episodes ,6&7 to see what I missed, the thrill is gone now--
Wayne

[tcm glx]

Well, that was disappointing. Apparently they finished the motor, but didn't cover the re-install or dyno the result(yet). 'Would have liked to see what if any tuning was needed to get it running.

'Got a long arm kit though! ( ? )

Maybe I missed an episode?

Hey guys, I just watched the episode, and at the very beginning, they state that they are not planning to dyno it until it has broken in. They talk about potential tuning as well. I think we can expect to see it eventually. :thumbup: