Actually doing Jeep stuff

[sukemecuke]

HATE the plastic bumpers on this thing. Even with them being ceramic coated I have to reapply every 6 months or else I'll start seeing the white/gray spots. So I got a new rear bumper for the time being. Front will be replaced soon-ish. Need my bank account to recover after all the boat parts and Christmas.

I went with a budget brand after reading all the good reviews. Only complaints were nicks from shipping. Which mine had a TINY one right on the ends. Touched it up with touch up paint and moving on,.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7891/32620351188_741a91d219_k.jpg
Hanging it from the ceiling from my hard top hoist to air brush the ceramic coating on prior to installation.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4820/45579886635_1d5d468bbd_k.jpg
Coating done.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7829/45579891565_db9e2665c9_k.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4816/46493027721_d0e2003aaa_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7851/46493027811_ac0bde6bf9_k.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4900/46441661872_5c33acb22c_k.jpg
It fit fvcking perfect! Heard some complaints of folks saying they had to tweak it around to get it to fit. Which were rare, and figured most of those people are just full of sh1t, or retarded.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4859/32620358458_ee8f035bcf_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7805/46493030911_3b4afaf95c_k.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4836/46441664602_0c5c0eb211_k.jpg

Installed this too. Not much to see and didn't take any pics of the install.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7804/32620352048_cddfe18590_z.jpg

Didn't wanna drill my bumper so drill through my license plate. Right now I'll manually fill up the bags through the schrader valve. Don't forsee me adjusting these much.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4808/44676168240_04c540ad42_k.jpg[

It's fun to watch the back end go up and down when you put air in or out. HAH!

[Cobound]

Saw that on FB, looks clean. Well purposed purchase, since you don’t wheel it...lil bulky for me otherwise.

The bumper I ordered for Nissa’s TJ had the same shipping issues, ends brushed and chipped...otherwise solid as they come, especially for the price!

Interesting to see the bags, I’ve seen more people doing that...especially those towing. Pretty easy?

Take those D-Rings off...ugh, the clanking drives me nuts! And you never use them...do you?

As always, nicely done.

[sukemecuke]

Saw that on FB, looks clean. Well purposed purchase, since you don’t wheel it...lil bulky for me otherwise.

The bumper I ordered for Nissa’s TJ had the same shipping issues, ends brushed and chipped...otherwise solid as they come, especially for the price!

Interesting to see the bags, I’ve seen more people doing that...especially those towing. Pretty easy?

Take those D-Rings off...ugh, the clanking drives me nuts! And you never use them...do you?

As always, nicely done.

They have rubber isolators. Don't hear a thing. :) Part of the reason I went with this bumper specifically. Yeah I wanted the bulk as I wanted it to follow the stock fenders and such.

Bags were super easy and will be fantastic for towing. Jack up the back end and let the suspension droop, roll up the bags, and slide them through the coils. Run the air lines and you're done. I went slow and it took me maybe an hour.

[Cobound]

Yeah, those rubber isolators can be bought separately...I’ll pass.

[sukemecuke]

Yeah, those rubber isolators can be bought separately...I’ll pass.

They can, but didn't wanna add yet another thing to order. Wanted to make it simple for the ole wife. :chug:

[Cobound]

I hear ya...they came w/ Nissa's TJ bumper as well...I took them off and tossed them in the corner, still all bright and shiny...they are for sale on the local CL and FB MP :lol:

[xj_man_646]

Nice! I like that bumper. I also didn't know you do / can airbrush the ceramic coating on.

When you apply those coatings, do you let it dry / cure and that is it? I recall you saying the application can be tricky...how do you remove the coating if you eff it up?

[sukemecuke]

Nice! I like that bumper. I also didn't know you do / can airbrush the ceramic coating on.

When you apply those coatings, do you let it dry / cure and that is it? I recall you saying the application can be tricky...how do you remove the coating if you eff it up?

Yup. It's easier for textured surfaces to get it in the nooks and crannies. If you eff it up the only way you're going to remove it is to polish it off. It chemically bonds to paint. I.E. becomes part of your clear coat. So to remove it you have to remove the layer of clear that is now part of the ceramic coating. The application is only tricky as it goes on completely clear and you have to have the eye to see when it has flashed and is ready to be buffed off. Which can be trained if you don't naturally have a keen eye for defects and things like that.

Only time I generally air brush coatings on is things like air dams/grilles that are a honeycomb type shaped or wheels that have a fvck ton of small areas to get sh1t into......or metals/plastics that are very textured.

[bbaCJ8]

Put a second one in and fill them independently... will be much nicer when towing the boat as the air won't be forced to the other bag when going around corners or over bumps.
I thought about that as well and did a little research before I put the same type of setup on my wife's Tahoe. It's a non-issue. Ours are rated at 30psi, so not crazy to begin with, and there's 4-5ft of 1/4" OD air line tying them together so there's plenty of restriction fighting any side-to-side flow during cornering. I put them on T'd together like Suke but brought all the parts along to separate them. 500+ miles towing a big asss 8k lb camper around hilly/curvy northern Michigan and zero complaints whatsoever about the setup. If/when I do a setup like this again I'll do it the same way. Besides the ease of filling simultaneously, I also like the peace of mind knowing that if there's a leak or blowout I won't end up with uneven loading and the potentially nasty handling that it could cause.

Before you come back with 6 paragraphs of why I'm wrong and flow calculations through the 1/8" ID air lines, know that I simply don't care. I did my own research, I tested it, and it works great with that setup. Maybe it's different towing 30k lb with a 1 ton dually, but it works with a 1/2 ton towing a camper and I'm confident it'll do just as well with a JK towing a jet boat.

[sukemecuke]

Put a second one in and fill them independently... will be much nicer when towing the boat as the air won't be forced to the other bag when going around corners or over bumps.
Thought about that, but the extra work wasn't worth the small benefit.
If/when I do a setup like this again I'll do it the same way. Besides the ease of filling simultaneously, I also like the peace of mind knowing that if there's a leak or blowout I won't end up with uneven loading and the potentially nasty handling that it could cause.

Maybe it's different towing 30k lb with a 1 ton dually, but it works with a 1/2 ton towing a camper and I'm confident it'll do just as well with a JK towing a jet boat.

And that as well

[Cobound]

:lol:

[Cobound]

There it is :roflmao:

[bbaCJ8]

It's almost too easy. The subject matter expert on all subjects has it covered once again.

Enjoy your deathtrap Suke, I'll leave the bickering out of it.

[sukemecuke]

It's almost too easy. The subject matter expert on all subjects has it covered once again.

Enjoy your deathtrap Suke, I'll leave the bickering out of it.

I will. ;):D:chug:

[sukemecuke]

So I bought a couple boxes of this kilmat stuff to do my engine bay on my boat as the factory stuff was getting brittle and crumbling.

Evidenced here
https://i.ibb.co/Tc9T9Zv/20190203-154732.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/Fwx8W0m/20190203-154440.jpg

Only took about a box to do the boat, so I thought hmmmmmm don't wanna deal with the hassle of shipping this back so figured I might as well do the jeep.

Love this thing, I could strip the interior out in under an hour.
https://i.ibb.co/7zkHT4H/20190222-092752.jpg

Cleaned it up and wiped it all down with alcohol.

Took about 3-4 hours to lay all this stuff down.
https://i.ibb.co/vsFbDP7/20190222-154617.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/5czF6ry/20190222-165432.jpg

Interior all back in.
https://i.ibb.co/GRwYtQB/20190222-201545.jpg

I didn't really have any expectations as to what it would do for road noise or whatever, but HOLY CRAP did it quiet it down significantly. I'd say it's ALMOST as quiet as our Civic, which is the quietest car I've ever owned. Can barely hear the hum of the tires at highway speed, which is nice for long trips. Also nice you can have a conversation at highway speeds without yelling at each other.

[Cobound]

I'd ask how it holds up to water...but not only did you put it in a boat, you'll never get the inside of your JK wet anyway :lol:

Nicely done! What would you estimate the cost of doing that to the Jeep?

I run mine ONLY in the late spring, all summer and into late fall...never w/ a top on it too long, so I can't really see me doing this, unless I went 100% overlanding build w/ the top on all the time and drove it more year round.

[sukemecuke]

I'd ask how it holds up to water...but not only did you put it in a boat, you'll never get the inside of your JK wet anyway :lol:

Nicely done! What would you estimate the cost of doing that to the Jeep?

I run mine ONLY in the late spring, all summer and into late fall...never w/ a top on it too long, so I can't really see me doing this, unless I went 100% overlanding build w/ the top on all the time and drove it more year round.

It's waterproof, which is why I put it in the boat. It was about $100. Bunch of people on the jetboat forums used it, so I thought hmmmm I'll give it a shot.

[sukemecuke]

So would you say Kilmat is as good as Dynamat xtreme? I tried Noico (garbage) and Hushmat (mediocre). Never got as far as trying Kilmat because I figured it if was way cheaper than Dynamat and wasn't made out of asphalt it was probably junk like Noico.

I have two 36 square foot packages of Dynamat Xtreme in my boat. Made a world of difference. Only thing preventing you from talking at speed is wind noise. Used to have to scream at people at idle.

No idea, but it costs 1/3 the price. Most of the noise comes up through the floor, that's why people complain when they put the headliner pads in the hardtop it doesn't so much. This made it a world of difference. I'll likely put this underneath when I eventually get the DEI boom mat stuff.

[Blue XJ]

I've been looking into the Kilmat for my hotrod as well, the price seems decent. I've bought cheaper stuff before and was less than impressed.

[sukemecuke]

I've been looking into the Kilmat for my hotrod as well, the price seems decent. I've bought cheaper stuff before and was less than impressed.

Yeah it's all about what your expectations are. I had none since it was left over from doing my boat. There are probably WAY better options, but at this price point it's hard to beat.

[Blue XJ]

I'm trying to quiet down and block some heat in my hotrod, the exhaust resonates a bit inside, looking to make it quieter since the kids ride in it more now. I don't expect it to get rid of all of it, but covering the firewall with something has to be better than the nothing that is currently there.

[sukemecuke]

I'm trying to quiet down and block some heat in my hotrod, the exhaust resonates a bit inside, looking to make it quieter since the kids ride in it more now. I don't expect it to get rid of all of it, but covering the firewall with something has to be better than the nothing that is currently there.

that was basically my thought. Something was better than nothing and wasn't willing to spend a ton.

[nblehm]

How think of kilmat did you use?

[Cobound]

Speaking of doing Jeep stuff...did a few light projects myself -

Replaced the spindle in my AEV tire carrier - hoping that solves the small wobble it had, kept breaking the saddle blocks, we'll see. Feels more firm now, that tire looks HUGE back there now that it's back on :eek:

Made a rear license plate light bracket - got pulled over in Moab last year cuz it wasn't lit :rolleyes:

Installed my Trektop NX - turns out I love it :lol:

Packed up another Plano box for gear storage. I can fit two of them plus my RTIC cooler back there, under the Tuffy security box and still have room for other small items. Used to have all my tools in a backpack, now I fit my tools, both straps, plug kit, fluid recovery kit, and small odds and ends in a box, love it! Other box has camping gear and odds n ends for general anytime use. The box fits nicely on my tailgate table as well, love that thing!

Hmm...also got my ATP handles and some Molle rear door extensions installed several weeks ago. With the hard top off (if you have a hardtop and don't have a Harken Hoister, GET ONE) I'll have to get the holes drilled and Rhino Rack mounted...but I have time for that. Moab is right around the corner :rock:

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/55672292_986678288500_7483658944783581184_n.jpg?_n c_cat=105&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=31719476274b19d12e553303fefa8111&oe=5D18CC46

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/53454877_986678123830_4144083282415321088_n.jpg?_n c_cat=109&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=92a247c2df286ba200daf4130db401f0&oe=5D4C5E99

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/55726420_986678133810_533456670697717760_n.jpg?_nc _cat=108&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=da25a25a7175724e25be7b94fd2cfc2f&oe=5D04067E

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/55448450_986678313450_7558206498866724864_n.jpg?_n c_cat=109&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=36f24e5103daaa70070befa12d10ea5e&oe=5D01C16D

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/55576576_986678363350_5808343265203716096_n.jpg?_n c_cat=107&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=a3b369ede0d3918427601ee6606d7dd8&oe=5D0B8B0A

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/55726232_986678388300_4129545977759531008_n.jpg?_n c_cat=108&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=1cabd119487598246c2007f799fa9e86&oe=5D49D242

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/54525732_986678438200_1554709626358857728_n.jpg?_n c_cat=100&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=fe2c3ed410defab96d4bf0657d498f14&oe=5D487790

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/50229448_973954107860_1708622231837343744_n.jpg?_n c_cat=102&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=b4a8712339b4ebed43bf121a99d1e157&oe=5D4F8FDC

Anyone w/ a 4 door JK absolutely NEEDS these...especially if you have kids!! Before and after, the door opening is amazing!!

Before:
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/49848352_973922875450_803207533446561792_n.jpg?_nc _cat=107&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=a412a31df141af50b169b51c05cc9366&oe=5D162DC0

After:
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/49819285_973922975250_6666042242735538176_n.jpg?_n c_cat=103&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=d94a02a43f337d1eb9c86238a0133e37&oe=5D03E9A8

Factory vs. Molle
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/50201675_973923015170_2796657135767781376_n.jpg?_n c_cat=106&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=8ca14e5768f687e8b800b1f9f744bb97&oe=5D176BAE

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/49898397_973922910380_1628533963783929856_n.jpg?_n c_cat=107&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=a7561cb0d49217248f879f9467c3f43e&oe=5D4681ED

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/49761393_973922940320_407380242185846784_n.jpg?_nc _cat=104&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=e98707734410644483b1f5e46f24a7f6&oe=5D0AA8D2

For years I never installed the soft top cuz I had this, an easy on and off deal...but I'm running half doors and soft top for the trek out west, so this is such a great storage spot as well! Especially cuz I have very limited room otherwise :p
https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/53625607_986678413250_7833630004096270336_n.jpg?_n c_cat=103&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=28e4e26fc3b73df4562697a49cfa4410&oe=5D4997BB

Here's to working on some little things, finally!! :rock:

[6DoF]

hauling a full-size 40 as a spare seams kind of ridiculous ... only reason i have a full-size 37 is because it was free. if going out over-landing for an expedition i could see it, like in racing, it'll be needed for extended use (i guess you kind of do that stuff). but when off-road, just keep one on the trailer ... or if you really want one around town just use a 35. it'll get you home that ONE time you use it, and be soooooo much less intrusive every day.

[Kurt]

I like the rear door hinge extensions! I think Ill have to pick up a pair. Even with my small kids getting them in can be a pain.

[Cobound]

hauling a full-size 40 as a spare seams kind of ridiculous ... only reason i have a full-size 37 is because it was free. if going out over-landing for an expedition i could see it, like in racing, it'll be needed for extended use (i guess you kind of do that stuff). but when off-road, just keep one on the trailer ... or if you really want one around town just use a 35. it'll get you home that ONE time you use it, and be soooooo much less intrusive every day.

Well, it came w/ my Jeep...and I like having things match, to boot. Otherwise, I don't run it locally, only when I head out on a long haul. Like the upcoming 3k mile round trip I'm about to take to Moab - and I've been known to lose a sidewall on occasion when I'm on the trail ;)

I've talked to a lot of peeps about the spare...and they all say to take one when overlanding, period. So I will, I do.

I'm not going to store it inside either, that's valuable space waste!


I like the rear door hinge extensions! I think Ill have to pick up a pair. Even with my small kids getting them in can be a pain.

Word. My kids are both grown now, but even an adult needs more room to get in these things than those doors provide :lol:
Putting gear back there is what I do mostly now...and they are AWESOME!

[Kurt]

Hopefully I can start doing Jeep things when I get back from Moab. Supposed to be leaving Thursday morning, but my truck is torn apart at the moment. Going to be down to the wire as to whether or not I can leave on time. High pressure fuel pump sh!t the bed and sent metal shavings through the fuel system....needs new pump, injectors, fuel lines, regulators, filters, etc etc etc..... :james:

[Cobound]

Ha...my buddy Pat (SRT8) has his JK axles town out, doing a 1 ton swap, half doors...let’s just say, half doors came in yesterday from paint and he’ll be lucky to drive the Jeep next week. May even need to toss the 44’s back in if he can’t get it done :p

Ambitious efforts, I think he’ll make it. Ran into some snags, but when don’t you?!

[xj_man_646]

High pressure fuel pump sh!t the bed and sent metal shavings through the fuel system....needs new pump, injectors, fuel lines, regulators, filters, etc etc etc..... :james:

Just out of curiosity...what did all the parts run you for cost (if you don't mind)? I've heard it can be in the 20k+ repair range if done at a dealer.

[Kurt]

Just out of curiosity...what did all the parts run you for cost (if you don't mind)? I've heard it can be in the 20k+ repair range if done at a dealer.

At the dealer, $12,000 - $15,000. I have a buddy that has a Diesel performance and repair shop to do the work. Total cost in parts was $5,730 and that includes a couple extra things dealing with the DPF. He'll have about 30-35 hours into the whole job when done.

My truck is a 2012 with 52,000 miles. Out of the 5 year/100,000 mile warranty

[Cobound]

:eek:

WTF, how did that happen...and wow, that's pricey :eek:

I'd have to consider a Hemi swap at that point :lol:

[Kurt]

:eek:

WTF, how did that happen...and wow, that's pricey :eek:

I'd have to consider a Hemi swap at that point :lol:

Its the CP4 pump (High Pressure Fuel Pump) found in the Fords and Chevys. Bosch makes it. I've read several reasons why they break down, first is that they apparently doesnt do well with the ultra low sulfer diesel in the states, and it causes the pump to eat itself up with the lack of proper lubrication. The other is if the Flow Meter on the pump itself goes out and sticks open, it runs the pump at 100% duty cycle, 60,000 psi, and it eats itself up. Both send metal dust, shavings, or chunks through the entire fuel system....leading to you needing to replace everything; injectors, pump, fuel lines, regulators, filters, injector rails, etc etc.

They do sell a "catastrophe prevention kit" that is supposed to take those metal pieces directly back to the tank and bypass everything else. So you would just need to replace the pump instead of what Im having to do.

XDP catastrophe prevention kit (https://www.xtremediesel.com/xdp-67l-powerstroke-cp4-bypass-kit-xd281?gclid=CjwKCAjwvuzkBRAhEiwA9E3FUvg6AhLJn7K9jA Z_rFS1Qaw90o0E8hE1jrrVHreYl349X8hxVBMqexoCwWMQAvD_ BwE)

Unfortunately, thats what I was originally having my buddy install, but when he got in there to do the work, found it was too late. A $500 job before my trip turned into an $8,000 jobs real quick, and the truck is still not done, and Im supposed to be leaving in 20 hours.

[Cobound]

Ah, your truck...read that as your Jeep. Damn, that so blows! Especially considering the timing, not just you were going to do the damn upgrade but you're leaving.

Why would that be an upgrade anyway, it should be included w/ the factory purchase, that's terrible!

[xj_man_646]

:eek:.

That sucks!

This isn't the same pump that is in the 6.7 Cummins trucks? Its surprising that I don't read of issues nearly as much...if it has the same pump.

I have also heard water intrusion into the fuel on the Ford trucks is a major reason why warranty claims for these failures were being denied years ago.

[Kurt]

:eek:.

That sucks!

This isn't the same pump that is in the 6.7 Cummins trucks? Its surprising that I don't read of issues nearly as much...if it has the same pump.

I have also heard water intrusion into the fuel on the Ford trucks is a major reason why warranty claims for these failures were being denied years ago.

I believe its a different pump in the Cummins trucks. Between Chevy and Ford, fortunately Ford is less expensive of a repair than Chevy, so I've heard. I've been reading a lot on it, and I've seen instances where people have their trucks in at the Dealer getting the work done under warranty, but the Dealer prefaces the work with, "During tear down, if we find any evidence of water intrusion, the warranty claim is denied". So you're going into it thinking its all covered, but might end up with a 15K bill.


Sorry Suke, didnt mean to hi-jack your thread....

[6DoF]

but might end up with a 15K bill.

there is no reason for that kind of number beyond pure price gouging.

[xj_man_646]

there is no reason for that kind of number beyond pure price gouging.

When it takes 30 - 35 hour of labor...what do you expect? That is probably $4k in labor alone, at a stealership.

Also, see the term stealership.

[nblehm]

there is no reason for that kind of number beyond pure price gouging.

You don't own diesel trucks do you?

When it takes 30 - 35 hour of labor...what do you expect? That is probably $4k in labor alone, at a stealership.

Also, see the term stealership.

Our labor rate is like 150 a hour. Dealerships around here are 160-190.

[Blue XJ]

I know it was talked about in another thread, but those labor rates just blow my mind. Dealers around here are $130, which I still think is astronomical. With what new vehicles cost, the dealer should get a larger cut, so they can maintain operations and not have to gouge customers when they are fixing the $hitty overpriced vehicles that shouldn't need to be fixed in the first place.

[Cobound]

Yeah, I remember when labor rates were in the $50-70/hr range, and doubling them is more than asinine, hard to fathom, honestly!

Glad I have a local guy that can pop on things for me if needed...even then it's tough to stomach!

[Dennis]

I know it was talked about in another thread, but those labor rates just blow my mind. Dealers around here are $130, which I still think is astronomical. With what new vehicles cost, the dealer should get a larger cut, so they can maintain operations and not have to gouge customers when they are fixing the $hitty overpriced vehicles that shouldn't need to be fixed in the first place.

Yeah, I remember when labor rates were in the $50-70/hr range, and doubling them is more than asinine, hard to fathom, honestly!

Glad I have a local guy that can pop on things for me if needed...even then it's tough to stomach!It is ridiculous, but fewer kids becoming mechanics means more pay for those that are. Totally a supply and demand situation.

[champ]

We have a dealer in Canukistan that charges close to $300/hr and $3.50/km for the service trucks. It's not unheard of to have a $2000 TT&M bill before you even get to the machine diagnotics and repair.

To be fair, these are the more 'remote' locations where it's a resident tech who may not see the inside of their home-dealer for months on end. That type of skill does not come cheap, nor does anything else up there.

Most heavy equipment dealers down here aren't even $150 for the field rates. How car dealerships are pulling that off is insane.

[champ]

It is ridiculous, but fewer kids becoming mechanics means more pay for those that are. Totally a supply and demand situation.

Also this. Dealers and the end consumer will, absolutely, be hurting in about 10 years.

[Blue XJ]

Most heavy equipment dealers down here aren't even $150 for the field rates. How car dealerships are pulling that off is insane.


I can't find the receipt, but I just paid the Cat dealer to send a guy out to our facility to do some work on an engine, I think it was $85 an hour for the mobile tech to come.

[6DoF]

You don't own diesel trucks do you?



Our labor rate is like 150 a hour. Dealerships around here are 160-190.

Also, see the term stealership.

i stand by my previous statement of DEALER gouging, both parts and labor. though i bet you don't get nearly enough of that 150/hour either, and the dealer's newb is getting way less of their higher cost.

when was the last time you got a better part cheaper at the dealer vs ... oh ... anywhere else? same part, same manufacturer, 2-10x more money depending on source. then they say you aren't allowed to bring any parts in for them to install, so they make extra money selling bits to the captive audience.

[Cobound]

Capitalism at it's finest, eh!

I get making a buck, but raping those that can't do it themselves is ridic! Sure, you're paying for tools, overhead, training, etc...but sheesh!

[Dennis]

Capitalism at it's finest, eh!

I get making a buck, but raping those that can't do it themselves is ridic! Sure, you're paying for tools, overhead, training, etc...but sheesh!Need balance. Capitalists with a social conscience, Socialists with a capitalist mindset in getting things done.

Need to start wrenching some more myself, just to keep the skills up for the time I need to help someone or fix stuff in the middle of no where or last minute get to work fixes.

Hope to get a running YJ or TJ soon that I can work on with #1 kid to improve and teach him some skills.

Kids just don't have the time to take things apart that they shouldn't be taking apart anymore. Leaving crap around the house in different states of disassembly was a great joy in my youth, and taught me a ton.

[nblehm]

Talent pool is low. We are always hiring and a lot of guys who talk a big game don't pan out. We aren't fixing points and carbs anymore. Which means it's expensive to fix cars. I get it, it sucks to have to spend a ton of money on fixing cars, but with extra bells and whistles comes extra expense.

i stand by my previous statement of DEALER gouging, both parts and labor. though i bet you don't get nearly enough of that 150/hour either, and the dealer's newb is getting way less of their higher cost.

when was the last time you got a better part cheaper at the dealer vs ... oh ... anywhere else? same part, same manufacturer, 2-10x more money depending on source. then they say you aren't allowed to bring any parts in for them to install, so they make extra money selling bits to the captive audience.

We don't except customer parts in most cases because it just inviting problems. Not all but most people who bring in their own stuff will bring in the cheapest part they can get, then are the first to blame the shop for the part failing. No thanks

Aside from that on powerstrokes I will only use motorcraft parts. Most of the aftermarket doesn't stack up, especially when my shop offers a 4 year 48k warranty. Euro stuff also often require dealer parts.

[Cobound]

^^^yep.

[nblehm]

So back on topic, what mil kilmat did you use? Cherokee heater core is leaking so thinking about ordering some of it to put on the fire wall while I'm in there.

[Cobound]

Back on topic - Doing Jeep Stuff :lol:

Installed my Bestop NX last week, pretty simple and was impressed w/ it's fit and tightness. Much happier than I thought I would be.

Got my half doors on last night, installed the uppers (rears tinted)...looks pretty sweet, fits tight! Almost too tight, front doors have a bit of a spring out in them. Guessing cuz they are new, and it likely helps w/ the seal, but I'll have to look at them in the daylight to see if anything is actually hitting. Doesn't appear to be hitting in places it's not supposed to, and it fits properly...super quiet going down the road at 70 as well, which impresses me because I was used to the Scrambler and TJ tops :lol:

Guess I'll really find out in a couple weeks when I get to drive it 3k round trip :p

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/56296921_988113018290_166351135710380032_n.jpg?_nc _cat=100&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=3f7e0d465714c6a11756c19a359f9fa4&oe=5D02C380

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/56120061_988113053220_3736566099492208640_n.jpg?_n c_cat=105&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=80bc90a5df463a040a6da593c07f1237&oe=5D03BFBD

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/56427041_988113103120_2917616492998557696_n.jpg?_n c_cat=101&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=1ba845a9864f6c77f97c49a0f216838b&oe=5D095671


Windows zip so damn easy, new is so nice...plastic is as clear as day! We'll see how long that lasts after some dismounts and unzips while driving :lol: Which, actually isn't too bad...hit cruise, unzipped and pulled in at 70 and it was good.

11 days :rock:

[Dennis]

Are those factory half doors?

[Cobound]

Are those factory half doors?

Think we already took care of this via another 'non Jeep' thread :roflmao:

But, yes :rock:

[Dennis]

Think we already took care of this via another 'non Jeep' thread :roflmao:

But, yes :rock::chug::cool:

[Kurt]

B, I just got back from Moab on Saturday. Amazing time as always. We got more trails in this time around; Metal Masher, Steel Bender, Poison Spider, Cliffhanger (awesome)...and my parents came with us and my Dad rented a JL, we took him on fins n things and hells revenge for his first time.

I flew out to Atlanta Sunday and I’m here through Wednesday, going to a Masters practice round. Haven’t really unpacked from Moab or had a chance to look through pics. Will post some when I get back.

[Cobound]

LOL...my buddy Pat (SRT8) is out there right now drinking beers, been out there playing golf and watching practices since Saturday!! He's flying home on Thursday afternoon, hitting my place on Friday afternoon and we're headed out to Moab! No rest for the wicket!!

I've hit all those trails you mentioned several times, all great runs. That your dad rented a JL and hit Hell's Revenge is awesome...LOVE that trail!

Saw some of your pix on FB, looks like you had good weather. This late in the season for EJS is nice, should be more tolerable...hope it's not windy and cold, and most of all dry :p

[6DoF]

LOL...my buddy Pat (SRT8) is out there right now drinking beers, been out there playing golf and watching practices since Saturday!! He's flying home on Thursday afternoon, hitting my place on Friday afternoon and we're headed out to Moab! No rest for the wicket!!

I've hit all those trails you mentioned several times, all great runs. That your dad rented a JL and hit Hell's Revenge is awesome...LOVE that trail!

Saw some of your pix on FB, looks like you had good weather. This late in the season for EJS is nice, should be more tolerable...hope it's not windy and cold, and most of all dry :p

every time you talk about your buddy Pat (SRT8), you always give full clarification of who you are talking about. we know he's your only buddy outside of :jeepin:, so feel free to use "my buddy", "Pat", or "SRT8" individually from now on. and certainly not all 3! :roflmao:

[Blue XJ]

:roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:

[Cobound]

:lol: :roflmao:

I forget he comes on here more than he used to, not everyone knows "real names"...never know which to use so I get redundant...funny, point well made :lol:

For instance, you're NOT my buddy, Matt (6DoF), but I know your name...so many others I don't, or I simply never remember who is who :p

[6DoF]

For instance, you're NOT my buddy ...

at this point i was thinking "HEY!!" ... then kept reading :roflmao: :lol:

my problem is that i'm horrible with names from the get-go. now i have have a few of you in FB with real names and no link to the jeepin handle. i'm always thinking "who the fawk liked this" and have to follow the bread crumbs til i remember the screen name :roflmao:

:jeepin:

[Cobound]

Yeah, that's why I reference people as I do...it jars a memory for some, but sheesh...pick on a guy when he's trying to help ya dumb fux :roflmao:

[Blue XJ]

Nobody here knows my name, well, maybe only 1 or 2 do.

I like when I talk to people...... yeah, my buddy on jeepin (or any forum) did this cool thing.. Oh yeah, what's his name? I dunno lol

[xj_man_646]

I like when I talk to people...... yeah, my buddy on jeepin (or any forum) did this cool thing.. Oh yeah, what's his name? I dunno lol

Yeah, people look at me funny when I reference my friends Cobound or Wrekkr. Even funnier when they realize that its what I call them in person, not just on here. I don't know if I've ever called either of those two by their real names :lol:

[Cobound]

Yeah, people look at me funny when I reference my friends Cobound or Wrekkr. Even funnier when they realize that its what I call them in person, not just on here. I don't know if I've ever called either of those two by their real names :lol:

LOL...cuz it's become our nicknames, for more reasons than one :lol:

We've had them longer than this board has existed as well, which is part of it, also.

I have difficulty remembering names period, but you toss on a board name that usually doesn't make sense or can't even be pronounced...then I try to remember their real name, GTFO :banghead:

So...is what it is...like Bownut, he goes by different names to me in person, and no way do I call him Bownut - hard for me to even do it on here :lol:

I know quite a few peeps on here in person, but they all have real names or other nicknames, too :chug:

[6DoF]

...pick on a guy when he's trying to help ya dumb fux :roflmao:

:roflmao::roflmao:

:f2:

i've met a handful of this board in person, but there are probably more i should then have.

like at KOH2020, hopefully meet a lot of you nutz!

[Cobound]

KOH2020 :rock:

[bbaCJ8]

Nobody here knows my name, well, maybe only 1 or 2 do.

I like when I talk to people...... yeah, my buddy on jeepin (or any forum) did this cool thing.. Oh yeah, what's his name? I dunno lol
I've met you numerous times, I've wheeled with you at the dunes, and I'm still only like 74% confident that your name is Jeff. But to be fair, I'm horrible with names.

[myjeepsbigger]

Yeah, people look at me funny when I reference my friends Cobound or Wrekkr. Even funnier when they realize that its what I call them in person, not just on here. I don't know if I've ever called either of those two by their real names :lol:

This! :lol: My Dad even calls BJ "Wrekkr"....but he calls Cobound by his real name.

[Blue XJ]

I've met you numerous times, I've wheeled with you at the dunes, and I'm still only like 74% confident that your name is Jeff. But to be fair, I'm horrible with names.

You dragged me off of the dunes years ago when my Jeep wouldn't start! And I'll see you this afternoon again, and yes, you are correct on my name. :roflmao:

[Sir Sam]

You dragged me off of the dunes years ago when my Jeep wouldn't start! And I'll see you this afternoon again, and yes, you are correct on my name. :roflmao:


My rental house has 3 tenants, I know their names, I don't know who is who when I see them though.

[nblehm]

https://i.imgur.com/E9ZTdaE.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/ClsSpSt.jpg

Suke wasn't lying. This stuff works pretty good.

[Blue XJ]

What thickness did you get? And you notice a big improvement both in sound and heat?

[Cobound]

Look at that thing, it ain't moving yet to be able to answer those questions :lol:

[Blue XJ]

I kinda thought that too, but he said it works pretty good, so I thought maybe that was a picture from a while ago

[Cobound]

Install goes pretty good :dunno:

He could totally have us fooled, too, and be driving it as we type :lol:

[nblehm]

Yeah it's back together. I had to wait a week to really judge because the pinion bearings started making noise right before I did that. Took probably 6 or so hours. Took it out one night and put it all together the next day. Applying the kilmat took the longest. Still have the cargo area to do.

This is what I used. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0751CBXBT/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 I will need another box to do the back half.

[Blue XJ]

That's the one that's been in my cart for a few months now, along with the seam tape.

[nblehm]

I didn't use any tape, but make sure to get a roller. I didn't realize I needed one until I was ready to put it in. I made one out of a wood dowel I had and a paint roller.

[KIAKillerXJ]

And what would you say of the results?

[Cobound]

Man, ripped off a few small projects this weekend, feels good getting things done so I can enjoy using them the way I want.

Nothing major this week, but I put in a new driveshaft in my JK - lil snafu after Moab tweaked it.

Removed those stupid 2018 Dirt N Drive JP Mag stickers from my window! Swapped out the soft top for the hardtop, as I installed the brackets for the Rhino Rack I'll be using for my Roofnest RTT. Hope to camp in it next weekend :rock:

I put a Sunrider for Hardtop on my wife's JK, but she didn't like it as much as a full soft top so I snagged one on CL and installed that this weekend...she's super stoked about that!

All in all, pretty decent weekend of getting a few things done all while still getting the boy to his baseball tourney, and my mom coming up for a visit during MD weekend :rock:

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/60061780_995321462510_966483738860978176_n.jpg?_nc _cat=100&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=2970887d34d8531c65efca79c7d028d3&oe=5D6011E3

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/60017377_995276637340_4957278500315725824_n.jpg?_n c_cat=103&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=0a1c1a79e9ab35529b4a435858846891&oe=5D694A00

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/59989876_995301502510_460239542864052224_n.jpg?_nc _cat=110&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=f74865118e9a2ff9ce79ceaed5b0e167&oe=5D640426

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/60350381_995337794780_7037989438521081856_n.jpg?_n c_cat=106&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=2b67b0d7b5128f92f7aef910c7ec3dc3&oe=5D61CEBB

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/59183096_993889901370_3773326338031616000_n.jpg?_n c_cat=104&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=84aa02228cceaf40066960232bf55a6d&oe=5D6B5A98

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/59215964_993889936300_1143840921540886528_n.jpg?_n c_cat=109&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=e76615ce2453f51457dc6761f48f853f&oe=5D772132

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/60364446_995346232870_3712514243979902976_n.jpg?_n c_cat=109&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=8ce792935a0de3c6a0b630ccb33e7c01&oe=5D5A4177

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/60031773_995346197940_4218988074698276864_n.jpg?_n c_cat=100&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=adf9528c5f514d4770bcfd51ab6a2be9&oe=5D5C6F4E

And, no...we weren't having a party at our house...those are just all our vehicles taking up the block while I cleared out the driveway and garage to get some work done :lol:

https://www.facebook.com/brian.knutson34/videos/995322201030/

Made baseball slightly more tolerable...ugh, this coach is a dipshyt!!!

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/59924447_995126243730_8046197466107740160_n.jpg?_n c_cat=110&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=b09689ff5811acd45eb910eca74037b9&oe=5D59AC1B

[champ]

I did a Jeep thing, about a month ago. Not sure if I understand though.


https://i.imgur.com/p6VmJ5M.jpg

No plans for it, other than just driving and enjoying.

[Cobound]

:eek:

Congrats :rock:

I’m actually impressed w/ the 2 door...would I own one myself, no, but my wife loves it and I prefer driving it to the TJ :lol:

[nblehm]

Swapped leaf springs and perches in my truck Saturday. I was expecting a little more lift than the blocks and stock springs but got 3-4" than I already had so the truck is sitting all raked right now. Going to get longer shackles to lower it, and it needs them anyway. The springs were super sketch to get into the truck. Had the frame ratchet strapped to the lift arms and was using a pole Jack to flatten the springs enough to install. I was just waiting for strap to break and my truck to go flying off the lift. Truck already rides better so that's a plus.
Old set up (looking at pics, my truck is rusty under there:(
https://i.imgur.com/sGL2LaO.jpg
Old vs new
https://i.imgur.com/GaoYair.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/egqID0F.jpg
Finally found a use for this flex head angle grinder I bought a while ago. Worked awesome
https://i.imgur.com/bfuoQRd.jpg
New set up
https://i.imgur.com/dhrhRfp.jpg
And the drag race set up :james:
https://i.imgur.com/kWqjgtd.jpg

[Cobound]

Nice! :us:

[6DoF]

looking at pics, my truck is rusty under there:(
https://i.imgur.com/sGL2LaO.jpg


:mad::mad: :rolleyes:

fawk you, fawk your state, fawk all you ppl who think that is "rust". i would GLADLY pay you 3x the cost of shipping to get a truck THAT CLEAN!!

:f2:

edit ... this spring my bonus check has to go into the house again, but the next one is fair game to play with. the next one you get to find me a toy and i'll fly down to roadkill it home.

[xj_man_646]

Yeah...I spent the long weekend out in Montana. You mountain guys and your 'rust' :lol:

This was my 2005 GMC as of last week.

https://i.imgur.com/LPyauDZ.jpg

[Cobound]

:lol:

[nblehm]

:mad::mad: :rolleyes:

fawk you, fawk your state, fawk all you ppl who think that is "rust". i would GLADLY pay you 3x the cost of shipping to get a truck THAT CLEAN!!

:f2:

edit ... this spring my bonus check has to go into the house again, but the next one is fair game to play with. the next one you get to find me a toy and i'll fly down to roadkill it home.

Just let me know. :rock:

I really want to take a week off and buy and fix a cj2a and roadkill it home.

[bbaCJ8]

Only Jeep sh1t I've done in recent memory was for other people to buy. My TJ has been sitting at home completely neglected so far this year....I'm sure some of that is because the spring weather has sucked so I wouldn't have driven it much anyway. It at least made it back into the garage last week, but I need to put a new brake caliper on it and reconnect the stuff I bypassed during troubleshooting. Hopefully that fixes it, cuz I don't have time to dick with the thing, I just wanna drive it.

Taking a JT home tonight but that's boring in comparison.

[Cobound]

Only Jeep sh1t I've done in recent memory was for other people to buy. My TJ has been sitting at home completely neglected so far this year....I'm sure some of that is because the spring weather has sucked so I wouldn't have driven it much anyway. It at least made it back into the garage last week, but I need to put a new brake caliper on it and reconnect the stuff I bypassed during troubleshooting. Hopefully that fixes it, cuz I don't have time to dick with the thing, I just wanna drive it.

Taking a JT home tonight but that's boring in comparison.

You wanna put a Hemi in mine for me :lol:

JT. Home. Boring. Really? :squint:

[Kurt]

My Jeep is now at a buddies body shop getting the rear corners painted to match. I also ordered a full set of Mopar half doors, along with power mirrors and door locks. Once those get here they will be painted as well.

Waiting to get the Jeep back as Im in the middle of re-working my JK rear bumper design and adding a tire carrier for 40's, with hi-lift and Rotopax mounts. Also need to finish dialing in the ProRock60/80; bumpstops, pinion angle, etc.

Rubicon again in September.....

[xj_man_646]

JT. Home. Boring. Really? :squint:
Why is that hard to believe? It probably drives like a JL.

[Cobound]

My Jeep is now at a buddies body shop getting the rear corners painted to match. I also ordered a full set of Mopar half doors, along with power mirrors and door locks. Once those get here they will be painted as well.

Waiting to get the Jeep back as Im in the middle of re-working my JK rear bumper design and adding a tire carrier for 40's, with hi-lift and Rotopax mounts. Also need to finish dialing in the ProRock60/80; bumpstops, pinion angle, etc.

Rubicon again in September.....

Dude, you will LOVE those doors...but power mirrors and locks :lol:

Well, OK, I'd go that route too, if I had the coin and it was a show vehicle :p

I'm contemplating a Hemi install at the moment...like, seriously. Pulling the trigger on the deal next week if I get the right timeline to finish install and still make my trip possible in July w/ it done. :cotter:

Rubicon, still on my bucket list :chug:

Why is that hard to believe? It probably drives like a JL.

:rolleyes:

[bbaCJ8]

You wanna put a Hemi in mine for me :lol:
Sure, but I'll need to test drive it for 3-5 years to make sure the bugs are worked out.

JT. Home. Boring. Really? :squint:
I mean yeah, it's nice and it sure as hell is better than my beater DD, but it's a stock V6 truck. Once it's on 37s with the top off and needing some real evaluation I'll be much more excited.

[6DoF]

Once it's on 37s with the top off and needing some real evaluation I'll be much more excited.

:f2:

[Cobound]

Sure, but I'll need to test drive it for 3-5 years to make sure the bugs are worked out.

:roflmao:

I mean yeah, it's nice and it sure as hell is better than my beater DD, but it's a stock V6 truck. Once it's on 37s with the top off and needing some real evaluation I'll be much more excited.

:chug:

[nblehm]

Dude, you will LOVE those doors...but power mirrors and locks :lol:

Well, OK, I'd go that route too, if I had the coin and it was a show vehicle :p

I'm contemplating a Hemi install at the moment...like, seriously. Pulling the trigger on the deal next week if I get the right timeline to finish install and still make my trip possible in July w/ it done. :cotter:

Rubicon, still on my bucket list :chug:



:rolleyes:


So what will you be driving in Colorado in July :f2: :lol:

[Cobound]

:lol: :squint:

[Blue XJ]

I'm contemplating a Hemi install at the moment...like, seriously. Pulling the trigger on the deal next week if I get the right timeline to finish install and still make my trip possible in July w/ it done. :cotter:








This guy has a 6.4 non MDS motor with AEV swap kit, 545RFE and an Atlas for ya... :D


https://www.greatlakes4x4.com/showthread.php?t=457940

[Cobound]

This guy has a 6.4 non MDS motor with AEV swap kit, 545RFE and an Atlas for ya... :D


https://www.greatlakes4x4.com/showthread.php?t=457940

I can get the America's Most Wanted 4x4 full kit for $8,044...so he's not gonna get far w/ that price.

https://www.hemijk.com/p-71-2012-2018-jeep-jk-64l-hemi-conversion-package-by-amw-4x4.aspx

[Kurt]

Dude, you will LOVE those doors...but power mirrors and locks :lol:

Well, OK, I'd go that route too, if I had the coin and it was a show vehicle :p


:f2: Come on...ever been wheeling, or driving somewhere and needed to adjust that passenger side mirror without having power mirrors? :D



I'm contemplating a Hemi install at the moment...like, seriously. Pulling the trigger on the deal next week if I get the right timeline to finish install and still make my trip possible in July w/ it done. :cotter:

Rubicon, still on my bucket list :chug:

:rolleyes:

Why not an LS?

[Cobound]

LOL...yes, my doors shut hard enough I need to adjust them just for that reason...not opposed to them, just ribbing ya :lol:

LS, well...cuz there's just something about a Hemi in a Jeep. And, cuz I know a guy that does Hemi swaps and not a guy that does LS swaps :lol:

Still working things out...

[nblehm]

So it's 8gs plus the drivetrain?

[Cobound]

Yep, for a 6.4...And install :(

I’m leaning 5.7, after much discussion w/ several peeps in the biz, about what works best. I’m not paying national shop to do this...

[Kurt]

Got the Genright corners back from paint and installed.

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/JKU/IMG_8674.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/JKU/IMG_8679.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/JKU/IMG_8677.jpg

[Cobound]

:brows:

[Blue XJ]

I can get the America's Most Wanted 4x4 full kit for $8,044...so he's not gonna get far w/ that price.

https://www.hemijk.com/p-71-2012-2018-jeep-jk-64l-hemi-conversion-package-by-amw-4x4.aspx

I'm not following your math. You'll pay $8,044 for the parts to install an engine from America's Most Wanted, or you can buy the comparable AEV kit from that guy for $6400.

And you'd buy the crate engine from the dealer for $9700 or a complete engine from him for $8350?


I have no dog in the fight, just not seeing how it's cheaper to buy it new, than at a discounted price.

[Cobound]

Ah, I must've read it wrong...I saw his prices as being higher that what they are new. And, no...I'm not buying a 6.4, going 5.7 if it all pans out.

Guy that I'm working through can get all the 6.4 stuff for less than this guy is asking...and it'll come w/ all warranties. I don't want the 6.4, not from what I've talked to people about, but this still isn't the greatest deal. Might do someone well that is in his neighborhood...but it's still too much ask for me.

[nblehm]

Just curious what you don't like about the 6.4 vs the 5.7?

[Cobound]

From what I've been told, the 5.7 has plenty of power, a workhorse, lighter, better fuel mileage...no need to use high octane, can burn 87.

This thing isn't a racecar, I just need some pulling power and better highway, driving power.

[Cobound]

I'm not following your math. You'll pay $8,044 for the parts to install an engine from America's Most Wanted, or you can buy the comparable AEV kit from that guy for $6400.

And you'd buy the crate engine from the dealer for $9700 or a complete engine from him for $8350?


I have no dog in the fight, just not seeing how it's cheaper to buy it new, than at a discounted price.

Well, did some serious research, talked to a couple guys...that kit he has wouldn't work for mine, and his pricing is rather high.

Long story short - the wiring harness is pinned to your VIN, so it won't just work w/ any vehicle. That aside, it's a 2009 kit, I need something for a 2012-2018...lot of little things you don't think of w/ the wiring changes, etc.

So, I'm still learning, digging, finding out what this will all entail if I actually pull the trigger.

thanks for sharing the link tho ;)

[Blue XJ]

Put a carb or Aftermarket EFI on it, just need the motor and a FiTech or Sniper kit and done.

[nblehm]

Put a carb or Aftermarket EFI on it, just need the motor and a FiTech or Sniper kit and done.

:james:

[Blue XJ]

:james:

:roflmao::roflmao:

I was going to mention a better aftermarket multiport EFI kit, but it didn't seem to be in his budget, if the factory setup wasn't.

[Cobound]

:rolleyes:

[bbaCJ8]

Don't forget to swap in some nice leaf springs while you're at it.

[Cobound]

:lol:

[nblehm]

From what I've been told, the 5.7 has plenty of power, a workhorse, lighter, better fuel mileage...no need to use high octane, can burn 87.

This thing isn't a racecar, I just need some pulling power and better highway, driving power.

Pretty sure the new ram i pulled that tj I just bought with is a 5.7. Those new hemis scoot. Don't blame you at all there. The 6.0 in my j10 drinks 85 octane and gets 13 mpg. The old hopped up 360 had to have 91 and it got like 9. So the cost benefit there is great.

[Blue XJ]

Pretty sure the new ram i pulled that tj I just bought with is a 5.7. Those new hemis scoot. Don't blame you at all there. The 6.0 in my j10 drinks 85 octane and gets 13 mpg. The old hopped up 360 had to have 91 and it got like 9. So the cost benefit there is great.

It has a lot to do with the new 8 speed trans too. My old Ram had a 5 speed auto and 3.55 gears, my current one is an 8 speed with 3.21's and it is way faster out of the hole than the old one, and better all around. Also feels much stronger when towing my camper compared to the old one as well, even though its the same engine in it.

[Cobound]

Yeah, my '13 Ram 5.7 has the 8 speed, LOVE IT. Which is why I'm still in it...I could've easily had another vehicle 3 years ago :lol:

That said, the new JL and JT have the 8 speed as well, which helps big time. Of course, if I do the Hemi in the JK it'll have the 5 speed...time is coming down to the wire tho, it's not looking like deadlines can be met :banghead:

[Blue XJ]

Just do it. You could have it back from a shop next week if you write them a nice check for it.

[Cobound]

It's not the shop, it's the shipping...at best it'll be here June 28. At worst that next week is July 4th holiday, and I leave July 12th for my trip. Gives my guy no wiggle room, and me no time to do a shakedown.

So, it's not looking good.

[6DoF]

excuses excuses ...

[6DoF]

nothing ventured, nothing gained!

[6DoF]

http://www.quickmeme.com/img/fb/fb1c27c6526385d0904dca7e3862f7b97ec85ef10f5cb446f7 1503c3d96ad113.jpg

[6DoF]

http://www.quickmeme.com/img/32/3228c2fc4c0aa7d348c4c8bd6fd40eb4062fe10748aff1971d ac7a47135875bc.jpg

[MBood82]

http://www.quickmeme.com/img/5e/5ed2acd5f364920e93b6daeac6b41be0a1db228658c3271bda 29d01869e3d481.jpg

[nblehm]

:lol: he's going to have his rtt strapped to his wife's 2 door for the Colorado trip.

[Cobound]

:lol: he's going to have his rtt strapped to his wife's 2 door for the Colorado trip.

:roflmao:

Not that I couldn't, I wouldn't :lol:

Dude, those 2 doors have ZERO room...I'm struggling just taking it to an out of town baseball tourney this weekend w/ just 3 of us!! Seriously, I really like driving it, it's snappy, comfy...but there is absolutely NO room for people much less bags and a small cooler :banghead:

Meh, I'll run the COBDR trip w/ my Jeep as it's set up. That decision is all but made whether I was contemplating this swap or not. One last resort is reaching out to the supplier to see if I'm able to pick up the kit myself...that's a 20-24 hour round trip, but I'd do it to get it here and give us time to get it done for COBDR.

That said, I may also have it shipped and do the swap between CO trips. I get back July 21, leave again Aug 3. So, 2 weeks to tear down and install...that might be an option, and a more needed w/ the power gain I'm looking to have to tow my trailer than it is to run just my RTT.

Or go to plan D and just leave it as is and buy a Gladiator :roflmao:

[nblehm]

Even an experienced shop with hemi swaps I'd have to imagine 2 weeks is majorly pushing it.

[Cobound]

Yeah, I’m still questioning that. He’s an experienced shop...used to be the install guy at Burnsville Off Road, prior to them moving to Dakota Customs.

[nblehm]

https://i.imgur.com/rt11fjD.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/GCyFQ7m.jpg

[Cobound]

Looks clean. Deets?

[nblehm]

Looks clean. Deets?

99 (I think) 168k miles. Bought it from Nick. May drive it, may sell it. Head gasket was blown. Head was warped .009. Sent it to the machine shop today, hopefully they can just cut it.

[Cobound]

Nice...does look really clean, as much as I can tell from the pic.

[nblehm]

Well cylinder head is smoked. .022 warpage and some cracking. Picking up a motor tomorrow.

[Cobound]

Time for a V8 :cotter:

[nblehm]

Time for a V8 :cotter:

Do have spare ls sitting around... :lol:

[Cobound]

No :(

[6DoF]

Yes!!

[nblehm]

Jeep head number 2 fail :lol: :cry:

https://i.imgur.com/Gyjrxe1.jpg

[6DoF]

Jeep head number 2 fail :lol: :cry:

Time for a V8 :cotter:

:f2:

[Cobound]

:lol:

My 6 is still running fine and it's time for a V8 :roflmao:

[6DoF]

:lol:

My 6 is still running fine and it's time for a V8 :roflmao:

... wrong 6 :roflmao:

[Cobound]

Hahahaaaaaahahahaaaaaaaaaaaa! :p

[nblehm]

https://i.imgur.com/RCtPpSp.jpg

I did it! Only took 3 different cylinder heads :james:

[6DoF]

https://media.tenor.com/images/46c9c1ac2d73668880d4ead82d35cf57/tenor.gif

[Blue XJ]

I went through a few building my stroker, the final one was cracked, they drilled it out, plugged it and milled it. Ran it for a decade with no issues.

[Cobound]

Nate, that is F'n AWESOME!!!! Don't let the Mrs make you sell it :p

Welcome back to the fold, dude!!!

I swapped out my pipe/converter on my 3.6 on Sunday, much easier than I anticipate...all quiet now.

Went in from the fender liner, man that made things easy!!

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65305672_10100102248197450_5335823268379099136_n.j pg?_nc_cat=107&_nc_oc=AQmkAnJih5lxzYRXwBK-7OWNAZ44IdnW_k5pJZ6aiGOvSk2mEZx2nUVuh-yYQQ3wePc&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=949ea44edff439e2cf699a3c8e61f4cd&oe=5DB8F07A

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65309163_10100102248077690_1164329466026000384_n.j pg?_nc_cat=101&_nc_oc=AQlJoL9RmL9QKD6EdZSB307y0NTOxXRaOmluWwBfbVh xcPcR_gsJO3nvBtC2NZv6j9Y&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=af0da89d00db1cf7da612cd2064ff309&oe=5DC13B35

This is a terrible design, comes right off the block, bent the flange, but alls good, it's quiet again and feels like I have some power gain back. Damn things are $500-1k...luckily I had a buddy that had one from an engine swap and he is letting me use it til we figure out the Hemi swap, so I didn't have to buy one!

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/64974877_10100102248107630_8272299589839618048_n.j pg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=AQkgCBIXCGIl8Ap0ykvk9jqVRXnm6j0WpplzlTlxS7v iUEdeSJPOZbo_Jcet_lZHjdM&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=4a3b2500f2d58fcd160e6b8dfec654a8&oe=5D8A6C9D

My door hinge bolts came loose...so when I put my uppers back in over the previous weekend the door slid down, wouldn't shut level, you can see just a small slide down (white line, original paint color) and that affected my door level by nearly 1/8"! Super easy fix, set them back up, tightened them. Went around the entire Jeep, they were all loose :squint:

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65145241_10100102248147550_281992902521913344_n.jp g?_nc_cat=106&_nc_oc=AQnUExP1SCXAPgjfBM8oz6l8TjcyL7hv--N9iNymleFuVWvA_C2vAAnphzVWvLH2HTk&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=4d7e3a901ffbec7fd1f3dd7dd7c57c97&oe=5DC6FCCC

Next up, trying to figure out if I'm going to remove the rear passenger seat and put down a false floor for my ARB to sit level, or strap it down to the seat w/ a 2x2 under it to level it so I can use it for my upcoming July CO trip :dunno:

So far just looking at it this way in case I want to slide it out easy, putting it in front to back may be an option later...

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65023754_10100102248262320_5336583821187874816_n.j pg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=AQnuXBcJC5ph_hJMYq5NfGOE1XnN91hHd5Rnwj0F9s4 LxJLPKcZh-LGN2eE-Cq3sOvs&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=314c20c8a0dcf82ce15140eb8945f366&oe=5D7B3E22


Can easily access it (https://www.facebook.com/brian.knutson34/videos/10100102248252340/), so I could use as-is if all came down to it. Not that it'd have to be level either, but it'd just look better. Need to see how to strap it if I go this route.

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65123240_10100102248536770_2620587369534849024_n.j pg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=AQkTtyP9cB2h2_8VLv0PbtWLC6uEtx0pw0iKdZsf_Wo oheI9IFz0A1CIWssxcbPe2TM&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=565f89798431e857e7bfd18c9f0e9d1e&oe=5D80A430

And I have tons of space for other stuff as well! If all else fails, I could easily slide a board OVER the back seat, level it w/ a 2x2 towards the back and eyebolt it to the board, the board could rest under the folded headrest...that'd be super simple, but a bit ghetto.

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65120443_10100102248431980_3945926810071465984_n.j pg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_oc=AQnotEkBDTOmY2KZ9tzQxkARRZVcVW5tc_bOAGRME7q fWCAxfy3U9wP0cyIvMWqaNvc&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=8cd72dfe5cb6f1f86a8c81941f530bf5&oe=5DB7DC3F

This is a custom made, bent floor panel, super pimp...but it eliminates both seats, I just want the 60 side out, leave the 40 so I could still haul a 3rd passenger if needed. Can't figure out why someone doesn't make these and sell them...this is super clean!!

Install a slider and it'd be extra pimp! I have extended door strap hooks so my doors open extra wide, love them!

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65801480_10100102248606630_6433877660996206592_n.j pg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=AQkKXrqcjSI-KmrsA8Aso3nHKyL5MqL7P6BmPbYO8HuS1p0gjffrfikinSsWYN H5nDg&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=f8c8ac1fdd38af4b4e02dbea7f54bdcc&oe=5D8C7ED6

Once my seat is out I'll cut some cardboard to template it and see what I think...but this is not w/in my timeframe, patience or skill level at the moment :p

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65220333_10100102248656530_3866115575998578688_n.j pg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_oc=AQlrN0mSZLQgw_fHjOCStKkCcineChH4QX1W7-fEy84SfdkQcr4PAvYdJJK-NG0-NNQ&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=9efa1f44f4849a0c76db6fcaf637a1b2&oe=5DB9710B

Of course, the companies that do this type of stuff charge a hot potato penny, so there's that, too :squint:

Picked up my 40 Nittos today, so that's the next swap.

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65072867_10100102243881100_3896551445129854976_n.j pg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_oc=AQnl7Hqy3ScdXB_-kJQ5GSvnMd4K6Ik_F6w-P9T9VryJJGRHQLWzXH4iowAcxPx3MYk&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=287e3eb3484b04d4e230b3fbe18da8ff&oe=5D7F9213

[Nefarious]

https://i.imgur.com/RCtPpSp.jpg

I did it! Only took 3 different cylinder heads :james:

https://www.reactiongifs.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/well-done.gif

[6DoF]

Next up, trying to figure out if I'm going to remove the rear passenger seat and put down a false floor for my ARB to sit level ...

wouldn't have this problem if you had bought a 2dr, they are flat under the back seat :p

:f2:

[Cobound]

wouldn't have this problem if you had bought a 2dr, they are flat under the back seat :p

:f2:

:roflmao: And no room for any goddamn thing else :f2:

Hell, if I were able to snag a Gladiator w/ all the options and color I wanted I'd swap my shyt over to that and roll out...but that's a pipe dream :lol:

So, likely going to keep it simple and just put the fridge on the folded seat behind the driver - that way I can still use the passenger side, much more space, for other stuff, and in an emergency still carry two people back there. Need to run some wire back there so I can use more than one plug in area...

Passenger side fits well front to back, leaves small driver side available for emergency passenger -

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65289225_10100102880679950_8074316045764001792_n.j pg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_oc=AQnwFsYmmO5aVqFadIBkMsQD9r_HRKwEDmefufPc9PS PY2XAjD_QZtaUa_yzvNh06ws&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=9f15b9eeb8650709b6c698b2d84ac016&oe=5DB80D5A

Driver side tho, look at all that space!!

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65309851_10100102880739830_4290754719061639168_n.j pg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_oc=AQlhOOwpTKLajXfuiSU4BsC7w-Qy9pVTYRH3YZH4DWpHUODwq6iBotWGxiEEp6u17Ww&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=8a30a74cfa933801d8ceacd839677be3&oe=5DBFE342

Can still haul passengers if needed

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65285070_10100102880764780_651587177783754752_n.jp g?_nc_cat=103&_nc_oc=AQnjZkG4pVoExBcKfdCkuek5Epp9BSttfGHTLQBP2pP mt5dqFErmmEFlJ9uJ_hOo5xw&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=23b4bdfa9cf9ac5c47f60de355389644&oe=5D8A7018

And the lid opens up high, and can be removed if needed...sits relatively flat, w/o having to do a bunch of seat removal or making a floor...

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65386038_10100102880799710_1433456720998301696_n.j pg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_oc=AQkrqqXSLRit82s1znFZTI9T_LVake_oixLLtoFI7ry gXM4Cgo-C47hXgdY4yx1i_VE&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=f27b79da0c7ea3b37a0c693b94bfbdc5&oe=5DC4B442

When all is said and done, don't really even think I'll need to strap it down tight, if at all, either. They are all pretty tame roads overlanding, unless of course we hit something like Holy Cross...then I could strap it tight, but not sure that's gonna happen.

[6DoF]

i don't like it ... too easy, too much extra functionality.

[Cobound]

i don't like it ... too easy, too much extra functionality.

:roflmao:

Too easy, I know...man, I really want to remove the seats and put in a floor, but I'm lazy and just want to put it in and go :p

[Kurt]

Getting the half doors on and hinges set before paint: (Ignore the quick release mudflaps...had to get them to make the local popo happy)

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/JKU/halfdoors.jpg

[Cobound]

Beast!

[6DoF]

i don't know man ... i think i like em black on that rig.

and that suuuuxxxx about the flaps, wtf are they even helping??!?

[Cobound]

Nah, half doors take these to another level, color match adds one more notch!!

Flaps, quick disco, he needs them to be "legal" in his state. Lame, so glad I'm good on that front here in MN.

[Blue XJ]

We went out to Paragon years back to go wheelin, everyone who's tires stuck out beyond the edge of the flare got pulled over and ticketed. Not sure if it was legal, since its a requirement in that state, but ours were registered out of state, but it was cheaper and easier to just pay the man for the ticket.


And I agree, I like the look of them black.

[Cobound]

Speaking of legal...I got pulled over in Moab a couple years ago cuz my license plate didn't have a light on it :rolleyes:

It was in my hitch, so I added a light to it when I got back. Well, got tired of running it in the hitch, especially when I had to tow something, I had to move my plate to the back of the trailer. Lame. But, all the brackets are spendy, not much to them, and I just dealt with it...until now, I got tired of it, so I snagged a bracket and swapped it.

Man, these tires ain't light :banghead:

Anyway, spent the bucks, even tho I knew it wouldn't fit and needed to adjust it some...cut down some of the top corners, primed and painted it, ran my wire over and up...bam, now it's out of the way and legal. Camera is even placed a bit farther out, which is nice. Light on the left side is real dull, I'll need to replace those cheapies now, but that's nothing to do...I'm at least legal. Well, as legal as I can be...if they wanted to be real assholes they could pull me over for having one light brighter than the other :rolleyes:

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/66421971_10100104142151950_1983263748076339200_n.j pg?_nc_cat=106&_nc_eui2=AeEVq7-AIthL9Iy6weRuskRtEBWv74azBwydA1c8sGGYgYBUdq5oVTzP0 HCUr9tMf7EFokWZWdAAAY331SmrDpsZEKNwu0nv7YIAzFOX8pQ XBw&_nc_oc=AQmkgObQSfpbWzVxZ5LFCvQce8oFsuTc0r_PeC-mt75vjZfKALOfEt4-imxWZujZkn0&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=45295a5b5af7cd4d281c1a2957c7da91&oe=5DB2F27F

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65430924_10100104142321610_8996652571703640064_n.j pg?_nc_cat=100&_nc_eui2=AeEmJ31z0VfOpfpOfms7BUNJRA7chuUZ0UxqKRJ4U oUs0egivhqkiY36X8ZVL1_ukHxu3XYHuCaLDUnTg8P9WCrPESo qAnU34grT27Il1N3x9g&_nc_oc=AQk23JwyJr4dL73TYsVMseZcwKTPNWFdcdXegukQRQm _WUERyZjRzk1HcZeQrQ7xsfc&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=cff570e801576536f4f1041e7ed11f0b&oe=5DBEC8F3

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65487129_10100104142381490_7369667471910895616_n.j pg?_nc_cat=100&_nc_eui2=AeG51TOe-2PIkSnnBEEh3V9wXXIneKRg7OhVdRMIzIVuV12XQ-sZNCk-Kk5PTqtTvZ3wm-FxEbuVG_RLwsgmnFM1Z2F75MpcdliC8eBAApuv-g&_nc_oc=AQkwBaBR2NRGx1f7wh6nbpCCX88LPNbpJQVdmDKc4j1 6autEdY5e5G4b187MIU6gexM&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=f921cbe57eadc6a54a11673b27ae8607&oe=5DC4EC68

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65565756_10100104142586080_4827025761569341440_n.j pg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_eui2=AeELivfib_pOy0l7OTWzDspOzcgZDUZT4lfeS-oIsFCX7sK6gXLd1fHFSu91bxvKHzOnqHHd3Synhprw1U-QkNNHDdh9bVpa1gmJiZtbbujLSw&_nc_oc=AQnJqpV5pIFTl0D41G_-B8FFoD5-fQ0PQ4O_WKTffe4oQsr1VAMctRn1QpQWf01wxJQ&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=3f26d750abf48b8e9be42733d7fc3d72&oe=5D870784

Little things, just little things...but they are getting done.

Wired the fridge line to my back seat as well...so that's done for the trip. Firdge in in the back driver side seat now, cooling down and running...so damn stoked. I decided to just fold the seat down and not pull it to put in a floor, just easier. 40% side floor may be another project down the road, would be nice to have, as I don't need space for 5, but the added space for people otherwise would be nice...and the 60% side folded down leaves lots of storage space...then I could leave the fridge back there semi-permanently.

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65285070_10100102880764780_651587177783754752_n.jp g?_nc_cat=103&_nc_eui2=AeFA8M1J77rU3m2Ujb69W_-blF_bSAG91Az5SXwUCxQADg3YPHxdef58wNkDNKlr-SS_yBiElg26_gQTB5enNYPOkp1uwjP1HzwtWGuCcr-1ew&_nc_oc=AQmEgWeQjc2pjaINOTSDGZRKArbtmnhUCOflpbXB5Sp ifIW_rCizxn7LLg2dEGRocps&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=facf6c6ea6ce8c44d9f5521a784c9af8&oe=5DB1FD18

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/65309851_10100102880739830_4290754719061639168_n.j pg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_eui2=AeFNdKEUuol-MvgGL10YrglE3DxXkxQx7hMbWqSHndfqNQy_79McjrfW7R391P-JtgPD2ORXQYxXuNDnKfxgON5uN4wPfRq3ED0JBLSTeHfv5A&_nc_oc=AQn-f0ZWUfcek_Igm1Tn_ToItHkSUeMWC6FG1AFAQU7aupOFCvIVgj XRVa9ZEoyWoNQ&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=2ac7e7dcfbf818aa410050c958c58ec0&oe=5DBFE342

[6DoF]

i've go the TJ's plate in the middle of the tire like that with the bracket that came with the KD bumper. such a win!

the camera is an interesting idea though ... but i really don't want a screen in the TJ ...

[Cobound]

Love, LOVE the camera...couldn't be without it now. My last few vehicles have had them, but those aside, the JK w/ a 40 back there is brutal :lol:

Hell, my wife has a 2 door JK and I miss the camera when I drive that...I find the stereo cheap enough I'll run one in hers too ;)

Again, that plate, so simple...but man what a difference! I never should've put it in the hitch, never!

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/29356583_1721855761195854_4738967717841731584_n.jp g?_nc_cat=101&_nc_oc=AQmH_wkU-3I2wc8pgrMSKQ31-xzL_V4Rd2OZO5tA2OgwGsIo-76BowUYkr23bQ_kJNI&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=26cc1ad807a3c893b9c72a0d06a58e3a&oe=5DBAD784

[Cobound]

Just got the tires rotated...honestly, looking at them now, they have some wear left and the damn fronts just had some poor alignment issues...hoping the alignment fixed it. I'll know soon, leaving next Friday for a 3k mile round trip...they will show if I still have something messed up in the front!

[Kurt]

i've go the TJ's plate in the middle of the tire like that with the bracket that came with the KD bumper. such a win!

the camera is an interesting idea though ... but i really don't want a screen in the TJ ...

I’ve got a camera mounted on mine... :D

[6DoF]

I’ve got a camera mounted on mine... :D

well thanks for sharing :f2:

i feel like i would use a wireless one that i could view on my phone for hitching trailers to the GMC. but probably faster to just take my time n back up in the TJ.

[Cobound]

well thanks for sharing :f2:

i feel like i would use a wireless one that i could view on my phone for hitching trailers to the GMC. but probably faster to just take my time n back up in the TJ.

Yeah, w/ time it takes mine to connect to BT for music, I'd imagine it would just be faster getting out and checking after a careful backup :lol:

Honestly, tho, really love my big screen (factory) and my aftermarket camera!

[Cobound]

Just picked up an ORO SwayLOC for my JK. My Rubi had the electric unit removed for clearance, and stock one in place (or a more likely reason, they busted it!). It was a pain to unbolt it, didn't really want a quick disco as they just leave the bar in the way to flop unless you had a nice connection bracket...figured by that time I might as well get a nicer style.

This company is local, they are just down the road, well reviewed. After I decided I DIDN'T want one a couple years ago cuz of some road manners and other feedback, saw them in Moab again, read some updates, decided it was time. They gave me a special Moab price when I was out there but didn't want to pull the trigger...got home, saw they had their display model for sale on FB Mkp - "used", so I inquired...they had sold it already but had another one...they LOADED it up w/ all brand new stuff, only "used" part is the bar and hub arms, $300 less than retail :rock:

So, that's what I'll be putting together this 4th, or this weekend, more likely.

https://offroadonly.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/19CAE9E5-32DB-4026-9FC7-4D6FACDF1697-e1550203113574.jpeg

[6DoF]

i'd love to get a dual rate bar like that for the TJ ... could never come close to justifying the money

[Cobound]

I hear ya!!! Full cost ain’t cheap!! Borderline ridiculous, actually! I had a hard time stomaching this as well...but after 3 trips of wrenching my bars off, and seeing what just a set of discos ran, I said fuggit. Never would I pay full price for this setup, but a good local no shipping deal...I’ll give it a shot.

Kinda decided this is my long term Jeep now...so I’m not skimping on it. To some degree anyway, I'm still a cheap fuk :lol:

[nblehm]

Sway bars are for women :f2:

[Cobound]

It was a bigger bitch than it should’ve been...but it’s done, and slick.

[Blue XJ]

So is that like an Anti-Rock that completely disconnects? I loved my Anti-Rock on the MJ, worked perfect and never noticed it was there.

[Cobound]

Yep, it doesn't completely disengage, but let's loose w/ a flick and goes pretty open.

[Blue XJ]

let's loose w/ a flick and goes pretty open.


I used to date a girl like that, I wonder whatever happened to her

[Cobound]

:lol:

[Cobound]

Followup to the swaybar...LOVE IT :rock:

Totally tell a difference on the road, super tight and responsive. After my RTT is installed, so much less sway, corners well. Actually pretty surprised how much I like it.

Off road, well, it's SUPER EASY to disengage, and it lets loose nicely on rough roads, which is what I drove on mostly in CO across the Alpine Loop. So, until I get to do some actual crawling, I'll leave it at that.

https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/67100560_10100107064146250_1142910189242941440_n.j pg?_nc_cat=102&_nc_oc=AQlybxmFOM6-q0QSkqDAMHXapC0lhGm1NQta198Yx1IYMlUb3sDlQgq9KDYv_m Fm37U&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&oh=43b1ccab7dbc2ebcb455fb38ab9bb2c9&oe=5DB747CD

[6DoF]

i wanna play

[Cobound]

Always welcome, dude. Always welcome. Already know I'll be out to KOH in Feb and Moab in April 2020, so...

[6DoF]

KOH i'll be there full week ... April Moab would be tough unless you don't have anyone riding shotty

[Cobound]

See you in KOH then :thumbsup:

Touch base near Moab timeframe, I almost never have a bitch with...so seat should be available ;)

[6DoF]

See you in KOH then :thumbsup:

Touch base near Moab timeframe, I almost never have a bitch with...so seat should be available ;)

dude, i'm a good winch-wench!

[Cobound]

I honestly haven't used one out there in over a decade :lol:

But that could change :p

[bbaCJ8]

Sway bars are for women :f2:
And leaf springs are for dumptrucks:f2:

[Cobound]

:lol:

[nblehm]

And leaf springs are for dumptrucks:f2:

You could describe my truck as a dump :dunno:

[Kurt]

Well, got the doors painted and assembled. Turned out great I think. Jeep is all prepped for our Rubicon trip as we leave 1 week from tomorrow to head down to Cali.

Disregard the mudflaps, I need them to drive in Oregon.

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/JKU/IMG_9320.jpg

[HotSEXJ]

Kurt, that thing looks great!

[6DoF]

fawkin hell man, that's just proper gearhead pretty ... now go get it scratched!! :rock:

[xj_man_646]

Yeah that is a beautiful rig. Nice work.

[Cobound]

Holy hellz yes!! Dude, I'm telling you, those half doors are next F'n level, AMIRIGHT?!

Love it, dude, sick clean build. Wish mine was still that freakin clean..damn CO/NE salt spray :mad:

I'm doing a thing as well...should have some updates soon, but let's just say, I'm pretty damn excited to drive it again soon :p

[Kurt]

fawkin hell man, that's just proper gearhead pretty ... now go get it scratched!! :rock:

Ha...and you suggested keeping the doors black! :p

[Kurt]

Holy hellz yes!! Dude, I'm telling you, those half doors are next F'n level, AMIRIGHT?!

Love it, dude, sick clean build. Wish mine was still that freakin clean..damn CO/NE salt spray :mad:

I'm doing a thing as well...should have some updates soon, but let's just say, I'm pretty damn excited to drive it again soon :p


I LOVE the doors. Putting some miles on the 60/80 gears before the trip, so I've been driving around town and on the freeway. The doors are perfect height for an armrest, just like the TJ was. I didnt realize how much I missed half doors!

Im guessing your thing you're doing involves more HP? :D

[6DoF]

Ha...and you suggested keeping the doors black! :p

i'm just not as classy :chug:

[6DoF]

I LOVE the doors. Putting some miles on the 60/80 gears before the trip, so I've been driving around town and on the freeway. The doors are perfect height for an armrest, just like the TJ was. I didnt realize how much I missed half doors!

i always loved the half doors on my YJ when it was a DD ... but i've been converted by full soft. if the upper is coming off, so is the entire door. it all folds up nice behind even the TJ rear seat, or nice n flat with the seat out.

[Cobound]

I haven't driven it w/o 1/2 doors since they went on...just love them!!

HP :dunno: :cotter:

[Kurt]

Another thing I did was install a Slipstream rear cargo cover. This thing is pretty damn cool. A bit expensive, but knowing all of the work that goes into creating something like that, its a quality piece. Ill have my ARB fridge strapped down on top of it along with the camp chairs. Underneath in the cargo area will be all of the other heavy stuff; tools, welder, portable Traeger :D

Diabolical Inc Slipstream (https://shop.diabolicalinc.com/)

[Cobound]

Teasers -

https://scontent-den4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/69617789_10100116199468990_756374016050069504_n.jp g?_nc_cat=102&_nc_eui2=AeESjCsYSaKPnKgdbbaT10-T5PCC506psBu57uD-BQoACrX_GjZ_HJUZTg0CzBMpOVwxFmG6HUgVnaUkcvGWJL8UbY pCle57KwQRQ_WvFzRuBw&_nc_oc=AQmFn6psyFHBmRRUJT0bK0Uem0SYuvhBfaIKChp9Vva 35zAdOVU0NJTia7IPHwck1vQ&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-den4-1.xx&oh=21e9164b486622d0d7fcd4e902208fe4&oe=5DC95941

https://scontent-den4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/70047591_10100116199923080_8569937855630016512_n.j pg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_eui2=AeFum0P1nlenm_FoQEDMsK-8-2UwSfbRwotzGBuUZ7dQ8G5dxn0c5PKquh75B6rvQsFHzLWJ6Zd 6Z2zS7aSJEcVzMjQodwkgI-GDdjdMYdDF0w&_nc_oc=AQmaaZFRH1KOGputp6etkZiDbxB_ec81ep9MXA2B4WW qNyx5pGNVr3rvCM6tKNLtXGo&_nc_pt=1&_nc_ht=scontent-den4-1.xx&oh=e61cc7214f7c156b60c4e00af0d10d2c&oe=5E13FC09

One of these things is not like the other....

[Cobound]

Another thing I did was install a Slipstream rear cargo cover. This thing is pretty damn cool. A bit expensive, but knowing all of the work that goes into creating something like that, its a quality piece. Ill have my ARB fridge strapped down on top of it along with the camp chairs. Underneath in the cargo area will be all of the other heavy stuff; tools, welder, portable Traeger :D

Diabolical Inc Slipstream (https://shop.diabolicalinc.com/)

I have the Tuffy security storage unit...LOVE IT. However, my Coleman cooler nor ARB 50Qt will fit under it...but that's all good...it's much needed security otherwise!

Pix of your setup?

[Kurt]

I have the Tuffy security storage unit...LOVE IT. However, my Coleman cooler nor ARB 50Qt will fit under it...but that's all good...it's much needed security otherwise!

Pix of your setup?

Ill get some pictures once Im all loaded up. Planning on getting packed for the most part this weekend.

[Cobound]

Sounds good. I see it flips back, that's a cool feature. Other than that, looks as low as the Tuffy. The opening from the rear seats is cool, but is it really usable, perhaps. There are a LOT more bolts, and it attaches to the tub vs. down the side of the rear...seems like it would make a bit more noise than the Tuffy...and hot damn, it's a couple hundo more.

I saw it out in Moab a couple years ago, but already had my Tuffy either way.


Both have their advantages, I guess. Pretty happy w/ mine as you'll be w/ yours. Curious how you like grabbing stuff from the fridge sitting that high? I store my upper half doors on it when I remove them, strap them down w/ long bungies, or toss two Plano boxes up there if the lower section is already full - works great!

[Kurt]

So I've been off the Rubicon for about a week, had to get caught up with stuff. The trip was awesome. Weather was perfect. 70 or so during the day, 40's at night. The last night dipped into the 30's as a cold front was moving in, so we got out just in time before it turned. On our way down we hit a lot of thunder storms, made us question whether or not we were going to take the tops off or not, but in the end we did and the weather cleared up.

The TJ in our group had a front U-joint lose its retaining clip, and the cap started to back out. So I tack welded that in place at camp the first night. White JK had minor steering issues with the tie rod rotating downward...simple fix with loosening everything and re-tightening once back in place. Not bad at all for this trip, I'll take easy fixes like that any day.

Camp at Loon Lake Campground to start:

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_9456.jpg

Hit the trail Friday morning:

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_9458.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_2210.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_9482.jpg

[Kurt]

The Group:

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_2217.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_2219.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_2222.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_9487.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_9491.jpg

[Kurt]

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_9511.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_9516.jpg

https://kdfabworks.3dcartstores.com/assets/images/photos/rubicon2019/IMG_0804.jpg

[Cobound]

LOVE IT!! So on my bucket list!!

[Kurt]

LOVE IT!! So on my bucket list!!

:chug:

This is the third time I've ran it in as many years (1st time I was a passenger) and I can't get over this trail; the scenery, the weather, how it changes from year to year. The trail this year was a bit more challenging as certain obstacles seemed to be more dug out.

We also had more traffic on the trail this year than years past. Same weekend last year, we only saw a handful of other vehicles. This year, we caught up with a group of Toyotas (newer FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, etc) that were holding up two groups in front of us, and 3 more behind us. Probably 35-40 rigs stacked up behind. This group thought they had too little air in their tires, and decided to air up in the middle of the trail, NOT pulling over! At the time, they were too far ahead for us to get to them to tell them to move off unfortunately. We were finally able to get around all of the groups by taking a bypass around Little Sluice and it was smooth sailing until the final day on Cadillac Hill.

On Cadillac Hill we caught up with a group of nearly stock JL's from Illinois....it was their first time wheeling. They were towing and winching one of the JL's up Cadillac Hill, and mentioned that "Something happened and the rear pinion pointed straight up, so we cut the driveline out" Not really sure what that meant.

Overall, awesome trip.

[Cobound]

That’s a lot of rigs :eek:

Kinda how I’ve been to Moab longer than my youngest has been alive (he’s in high school now) :lol:

Some day...I need to hit it before I’m unable to jump into my Jeep w/o a step :p

[Kurt]

That’s a lot of rigs :eek:

Kinda how I’ve been to Moab longer than my youngest has been alive (he’s in high school now) :lol:

Some day...I need to hit it before I’m unable to jump into my Jeep w/o a step :p

:roflmao: Let me know when you want to head there, I'll try to make it as well!

[Cobound]

:thumbsup:

[KIAKillerXJ]

I'll ride along! Almost quite literally in my back yard, but these days Jeep-less minus the DD WK :lol:

[Kurt]

I'll ride along! Almost quite literally in my back yard, but these days Jeep-less minus the DD WK :lol:

How close are you to the trail? Where in that area are you from? We drop our trucks and trailers off at a cabin in Truckee, but thats not always guaranteed we can do that. Might be nice to know someone else in that area...hint hint... :brows:

[KIAKillerXJ]

How close are you to the trail? Where in that area are you from? We drop our trucks and trailers off at a cabin in Truckee, but thats not always guaranteed we can do that. Might be nice to know someone else in that area...hint hint... :brows:

Tahoe City.

[Kurt]

Tahoe City.

Seriously?? Man, that would be way better, assuming you have space and would allow a truck/trailer to park at your place :roflmao:

We ate at that little pizza place in Tahoe City, the one across from the Shell. Huge slices.

[KIAKillerXJ]

Like I said, in my back yard practically :lol: and no Jeep to go out in. Been like 6 years since I ran it last.

Can't make any long-term promises, but look me up before you come out again.

[myjeepsbigger]

On Cadillac Hill we caught up with a group of nearly stock JL's from Illinois....it was their first time wheeling. They were towing and winching one of the JL's up Cadillac Hill, and mentioned that "Something happened and the rear pinion pointed straight up, so we cut the driveline out" Not really sure what that meant.



Damn Illinois people! :lol: :cotter:

[Cobound]

:lol:

[6DoF]

On Cadillac Hill we caught up with a group of nearly stock JL's from Illinois....it was their first time wheeling. They were towing and winching one of the JL's up Cadillac Hill, and mentioned that "Something happened and the rear pinion pointed straight up, so we cut the driveline out" Not really sure what that meant.

http://www.quickmeme.com/img/ae/ae782cde84e1336cf561db35dae4088ba98a84dd892f2545d4 e1a9339521b574.jpg

[nblehm]

Rubicon is on my list for sure. Looks awesome.

[Cobound]

Rubicon is on my list for sure. Looks awesome.

Dude, understatement!

[nblehm]

Dude, understatement!

Ua004 ;)

[Cobound]

Ua004 ;)

That's what we talked about!! May be another 2 year plan. That said, likely won't talk about it in depth until KOH or EJS this spring. Of course, from there it could be just the 12 months we're looking for...so we'll see.

But, yes, UA004 :rock:

[Kurt]

That's what we talked about!! May be another 2 year plan. That said, likely won't talk about it in depth until KOH or EJS this spring. Of course, from there it could be just the 12 months we're looking for...so we'll see.

But, yes, UA004 :rock:

We typically do the Rubicon, or similar trip in September. Next September, the talk now is to go a bit further South and do the Dusy Ershim Trail.

[Cobound]

We usually run UA sometime between July - Sept. we’ll have to see what comes after this spring, cuz nobody is gonna have enough vaca to do KOH, EJS and UA...except maybe Pat :p and he has Epic Willys as well.