d0nt_H8's XJ Rebuild - from bucket to beast (hopefully)

[d0nt_h8]

http://shookweb.us/indie_1.jpg
http://shookweb.us/indie_2.jpg

Ok, ok.. so she wasn't actually a 'bucket'... when I got 'Indie', she had been owned by a 17 yr old.. he basically was trying to do a JeepSpeed thing... only he absolutely JACKED the fenders when cutting.... (pix forthcoming) Other than that, this 1992 xj sport was is pretty decent shape... in having it smogged again recently, the mechanic offered to buy it from my wife if she was having it smogged to sell... the numbers were all very close to new.. at 199k! He told her he'd never seen a compression that high on this age of vehicle.. ;-) That made me happy!

So anyway, here is a pic of where the project was at as of this morning. It's coming along really nice :D

http://shookweb.us/Jeep Photos 007.jpg

What I'm doing in this phase:
-Full paint
-Liner treatment on roof, bumpers, flares and lower body panels
-replace both bumpers, rails
-add baja rack
-move existing lights plus add 4
-replace tj flares with bushwackers
-replace windshield (damn thing cracked RIGHT before starting!)
-New tail lights
-Paint rims (they're new, love the rims, hate the current finish)
-replacing all window rubber
-replacing grille
-replacing all lenses/light assemblys
-new tint all the way around
-full undercoat
-custom badges/emblems (not sure where yet)

There's more.. full ext. refurb basically... More pics to come. Tell me what u think.. /open to suggestions!

~C :coffee:

[Voldemort]

Should be cool. The stuff you have to do seems like what everyone has on there to-do lists.

[d0nt_h8]

Should be cool. The stuff you have to do seems like what everyone has on there to-do lists.

...I know...right? I know the Wrangler/CJ/Buggy thing is super-versatile for some, but I've got a wife and a dog that needs room.. plus all of my stuff... so it's XJ.. and that is great and I love XJ, but the lack of aftermarket items drives me nuts ;-0

That's why I'm out looking for some custom badges, and I'm open to suggestions.. I'm really trying to make a hybrid desert/mountain vehicle which I'll use to run trails, camp, and tow.. all out of the same rig.. My deal is that it's gotta be streetable.. it's an around - town driver, except for certain 'treat' days where I use it to commute to work.. but I need to be able to get to the trail.. capture some footage... get back... share with my students.. (I'm an inner-city teacher trying to expose today's youth to the wonders of earth, lol)... so I capture footage from my trips and put it into online projects for them to learn today's tech- everything from all of the MS apps to geo-nav software, GIS, and more.

My next phase is the interior, and my goal is to really tech it out and make it a geo-crawler... I imagine I'll start differentiating myself here, as I'm going to probably going to rebuild the entire dash & center console.. Adding nav unit, pc, sat access, and more.. If anyone has lower cost suggestions please.. let me know!

Long term, I'll obviously install a new engine.. I'll run this one out but lol at some point it's gonna have to go.. when I do that I'm going to do the entire electrical system as well, complete with dual batteries.. I'm already running hi-flow radiator, etc.. I'm going to install a 180 degree therm.. oversize & vented pumpkin... grant steering wheel removal system.. plus a bunch of interior solutions..

I'm also actively looking for a nice trailer which I can pair with it.. since I have summers off I plan on doing maybe an Alaska trek in summer of '11.. and possibly some nice cross-country stuff right here.. I've already done Shasta to Kingman... and I'm looking to do more!

~C

[Melissa]

I have a suggestion........................come practice on mine first :smiley-laughing021:

Just kidding........okay really I'm not..........:rotfl2:

can't wait to see the progress:thumbsup:

[d0nt_h8]

I have a suggestion........................come practice on mine first :smiley-laughing021:

Just kidding........okay really I'm not..........:rotfl2:

can't wait to see the progress:thumbsup:

...LoL... practice DOES make perfect! Hehe... :rotfl2:

[d0nt_h8]

LoL.. wife just said I have to finish our first before I go working on another, rofl! She also mentioned something about "We've got trails to get to"... LoL!

[Melissa]

LOL, man that always happens, I always get told no, its like I'm supposed to get it done myself :smiley-laughing021:

I really am looking forward to seeing your progress, so don't forget to snap pictures :camera:

[BlueXJ]

Your list covers most everyones desired XJ but the fact that you are really gonna do those things yourself make it a bit unique. Looking forward to watching your progress.
Blue

[d0nt_h8]

http://shookweb.us/8.jpghttp://shookweb.us/9.jpg

These are the rear wells. Nowhere near as jacked up as the front ones, I just had a pic or two... still gotta upload the front cuts...

BTW, I wish I could take all the credit but I can't- I'm not doing the paint. For that I called in a pro.. I don't even have close to enough room for all of THOSE tools, rofl!

[d0nt_h8]

Today was bittersweet: Ordered ALL of my parts. At once. HARD to swallow, but this is what it was saved for, lol!!

~C

[AJ99]

how much did it all run?

[d0nt_h8]

how much did it all run?


<cough, cough!> Almost 5k... but this was for everything.. bumpers, all replacement parts for the refurb, which is everything on the exterior except headlights plus several goodies- new hellas, rack, more. I get the parts on Monday.. then the real fun begins! This hurt tho. LoL!:sad0147:

[AJ99]

well do you recall how much it was for turn lenses, back lights, and are you replacing the plastic pieces that go around the head lights and turn signals?

[d0nt_h8]

well do you recall how much it was for turn lenses, back lights, and are you replacing the plastic pieces that go around the head lights and turn signals?

Yep... about $14.99 each for the signals and about $10.99 each through Quadratec. Rear tail lights I'm getting are aftermarket L.E.D. and they're $199.00/pr thru 4wheel drive hardware (4wd.com). I am replacing the headlight bezels (the plastic housing around the headlights), and those were $14.99/ea.

:driving:

[Melissa]

<cough, cough!> Almost 5k... but this was for everything.. bumpers, all replacement parts for the refurb, which is everything on the exterior except headlights plus several goodies- new hellas, rack, more. I get the parts on Monday.. then the real fun begins! This hurt tho. LoL!:sad0147:

At least you'll have something to show for 5K. I had big plans for my jeep including the nice paint job, then I blew up the motor, I spent over 3K and you would never know it, plus I am still throwing the money at it, and it is still stock and looks like crap paint wise :boohoo:

I want to see pics as soon as your parts arrive before they start getting put on, so I can drool and be jealous :D

[d0nt_h8]

Wow, THAT blows... sorry to hear it.. I have to say, I think my engine is holding up extremely well- recently had it smogged, and the tech asked if it was being sold- said he'd never seen a compression that high on a vehicle that old... so all the maintenance has really paid dividends.. I'm at just over 200k and she's a rock.. I'm very thankful too...

So yeah, I'm glad I can do this- it's an investment. I don't plan on ever getting rid of this vehicle, so I'm really trying to make sure all the details are correctly handled.
I know I'm gonna eventually have to do replace the engine, so I'm saving for THAT now, lol.. but it IS kinda cool to see how far it will go being completely babied in the maintenance dept.

After the exterior phase is complete, I'm tackling the interior.. The interior isn't at all bad as is, but hey- this is a rebuild! LoL.. I plan on replacing the dash, center console, front seats, and carpet. For that I'm giving most of my stuff to an interior guy, who is going to custom a dash piece so all of my damn gadgets, instruments & crap can be cleanly installed.

[d0nt_h8]

Hey-
Anyone know of a good source for in-car PCs? Looking to install a good system.

[Mudderoy]

Hey-
Anyone know of a good source for in-car PCs? Looking to install a good system.

Everything I have looked at is very expensive. I'm thinking about using a standard ATX motherboard and getting a mobile (12 volt) PC power supply. A notebook harddrive is already engineered to withstand huge "G" forces. The only issue might be the radio frequency noise that it will produce, of and where to mount it and keep it cool.

[d0nt_h8]

Everything I have looked at is very expensive. I'm thinking about using a standard ATX motherboard and getting a mobile (12 volt) PC power supply. A notebook harddrive is already engineered to withstand huge "G" forces. The only issue might be the radio frequency noise that it will produce, of and where to mount it and keep it cool.

Yeah, I'm finding that out! Places like Gizmosis (http://shop.gizmosis.com.au/productcart/pc/home.asp) I like, and they're setup is slick... but that cost.... I may just build my own.. It shouldn't be too much of an issue if I do my homework! :thumbsup:

[Mudderoy]

Yeah, I'm finding that out! Places like Gizmosis (http://shop.gizmosis.com.au/productcart/pc/home.asp) I like, and they're setup is slick... but that cost.... I may just build my own.. It shouldn't be too much of an issue if I do my homework! :thumbsup:

They used to make CPU heat sinks that do not require a fan. They are usually huge. I would look into one of those.

[d0nt_h8]

http://shookweb.us/92xjResized_001.jpghttp://shookweb.us/92xjResized_002.jpg
http://shookweb.us/92xjResized_003.jpg

Here are those pics I promised for those front bumper hacks... If you'll notice on the right, he went way to high, and they also cut out the inside support.... So I ended up tossing both, and finding two from a Cherokee at the local pick & pull..

I tried to save them.. but there was no place for the Bushwackers to attach...

[Mudderoy]

http://shookweb.us/92xjResized_001.jpghttp://shookweb.us/92xjResized_002.jpg
http://shookweb.us/92xjResized_003.jpg

Here are those pics I promised for those front bumper hacks... If you'll notice on the right, he went way to high, and they also cut out the inside support.... So I ended up tossing both, and finding two from a Cherokee at the local pick & pull..

I tried to save them.. but there was no place for the Bushwackers to attach...

Wow thats what a sawzall and 3 6 packs of beer can do! :shocker:

You made a good decision to replace.

[Voldemort]

Yea they are F'D!!!!!

[d0nt_h8]

I know.. I looked at em... then just went and made a call to pick & pull, lol... I didn't want to spend the cash, albeit cheaper than new... In the end it was just the right thing.. my bushwackers would probably have fallen right off if I didn't replace em, lol!

[AJ99]

are you reusing the bushwackers?

[d0nt_h8]

are you reusing the bushwackers?

...the previous flares were not bushwackers. They were some YJ/TJ flares. I think that's why the cuts were so jacked, lol..

..the new ones.. THOSE are the bushwackers. They, along with all of the bumpers have already gone to be treated with liner =-)

[TheWeiss]

I am impressed and envious of everything you've got going on. Please post as many pictures as you can to allow me to live vicariously through this impressive build!

[d0nt_h8]

Ok... so are are some more shots..

One/Two/Three: pics of the rear fenders being sealed :thumbsup:
http://shookweb.us/11-18 001_R.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11-18 010_R.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11-18 011_R.jpg
These show what we're doing in sealing those.. got a couple more spots to seal up, then we're good to go!

And now one of the goodies:
http://shookweb.us/11-18 012_R.jpg

Here is a pic of the replacement front fender after cutting:
http://shookweb.us/11-18 014_R.jpg
And today in for primer/paint:
http://shookweb.us/11-18 013_R.jpg

Now, it's time for something other than :coffee:

[AJ99]

man that looks like crap....:smiley-laughing021:






J/K looking good man

[Mudderoy]

Nice job. Those bushwackers are huge and will cover up a lot.

[Melissa]

I'm lovin the progress :thumbsup:

[d0nt_h8]

Ok, Painting has begun! Wooooo! LoL.. Here's a few shots:
http://shookweb.us/10.jpg
http://shookweb.us/12.jpg
http://shookweb.us/13.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11.jpg

The color is a non-metallic almost dark pencil grey... The blend has red, silver & green in it! Color looks off in pic 3 due to the flash :camera:

So far, all has gone smooth except for the whole fender cutting cluster**** lol, and I'm really trying to finish before Thanksgiving! I hope to go snow wheeling in the Sierras, or at least drive down the 1 on Thanksgiving day :driving:

[Melissa]

Ok, Painting has begun! Wooooo! LoL.. Here's a few shots:
http://shookweb.us/10.jpg
http://shookweb.us/12.jpg
http://shookweb.us/13.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11.jpg

The color is a non-metallic almost dark pencil grey... The blend has red, silver & green in it! Color looks off in pic 3 due to the flash :camera:

So far, all has gone smooth except for the whole fender cutting cluster**** lol, and I'm really trying to finish before Thanksgiving! I hope to go snow wheeling in the Sierras, or at least drive down the 1 on Thanksgiving day :driving:



oooohh......................:drool::drool:

[d0nt_h8]

Ok, All that is left on the drivers' side is to finish the sand job on the 'glass coating over the repaired wheel well.
http://shookweb.us/11-23_001R.jpg

For the passenger side, the holes are completely sealed, and there is just a touch more prep work before adding the glass coat over the welds.
http://shookweb.us/11-23_002R.jpghttp://shookweb.us/11-23_003R.jpg

...so I'm definitely NOT going to be done by Thanksgiving :mad0090: I haven't received all of the parts yet... and it's pushing back my finish date :mad: ...Quadratec said something about having to send my parts general freight, because I had so many they packed them on a pallet, ROFL

I have gotten some things:

Grant Steering Wheel, Removable Steering Wheel security system
New Black lugs & locks (to go with my new Mickey Sidebiter Wheels)
Bull Bar
http://shookweb.us/11-23_004R.jpg

This is my Top-Hat Rack. This bad-boy is getting put-together today!
http://shookweb.us/11-23_005R.jpg

My Winch
http://shookweb.us/11-23_006R.jpg

So, I'm looking to be driving this sucker in about 10 days. A disappointment not to drive on Thanksgiving, but I'd rather she be done right :rolleyes:

[Melissa]

Bull bar?? Is that a bumper guard that I call Elk pushers, or Moose pushers??

[d0nt_h8]

Bull bar?? Is that a bumper guard that I call Elk pushers, or Moose pushers??

LoL.. dunno, maybe... Mine will look something like this:
http://shookweb.us/rockjock.jpg

Also, here's a better pic of the true color with no light interference:
http://shookweb.us/11-23_007R.jpg

:D

[Melissa]

LoL.. dunno, maybe... Mine will look something like this:
http://shookweb.us/rockjock.jpg

Also, here's a better pic of the true color with no light interference:
http://shookweb.us/11-23_007R.jpg

:D


lol, yes, that is what I was thinking :D

I like the color :thumbsup:

[Mudderoy]

Keep those pictures coming.

[Primo]

The progress is looking good man I'm very happy your are undoing the crack hack job that had been performed on it!!!! It is going to be sickey! I want a two door. keep up the post and lots of pictures eh?

[d0nt_h8]

Keep those pictures coming.

Ok, just about ready to squirt with paint- I'll be doing that tomoorow. She's all ready, all that's left is a tiny bit of prep.. a final sand over the wells... look at the fender wells- they came out AWESOME!

Passenger Wheel well before-
http://shookweb.us/8.jpg

After-
http://shookweb.us/11-24_001R.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11-24_002R.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11-24_003R.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11-24_006R.jpg

I am so happy with the way these came out.. completely sealed- and better than factory =-)

...assembling the rack for fitting before paint =-)
http://shookweb.us/11-24_004R.jpg
http://shookweb.us/11-24_005R.jpg

Bull bar ready to weld to the new bumper:
http://shookweb.us/11-24_007R.jpg

Ok.. goal is final paint tomorrow on the thing.. everything else is painted except the hood- have to wait for my vents so I can do the cutting before it goes in... tracking numbers says the pallet o' parts should be in tomorrow... I wonder if they could take ANY LONGER? LoL!

Keep ur fingers crossed! :)

[Mudderoy]

I know it's a pain doing all that work and stopping to take pictures. Thanks for doing it!

[d0nt_h8]

Ok, my pallet o' parts showed up today :shocker: I was happy they arrived- I didn't expect 'em until Friday at the rate they had been traveling.. OH, technically I guess it's true- still waiting for 1 bumper. Got a solid arrival time of 10am Friday :rolleyes:

Primer went onto the main chassis today. Getting ready for Thanksgiving. I'll take pix soon :camera:

[d0nt_h8]

Ok, had a setback.. it was about to go to primer / paint, when we rechecked the fit of the flares because I didn't like the way the spacing looked.. it seemed a tad lower on one side.. checked the fit and sure enough, somehow due to the complete reconstruction of the fender openings, one side didn't fit quite right... redid today, and going in immediately... AAAAAAA I hate :pee: away time....

Pix soon!

[Mudderoy]

Ok, had a setback.. it was about to go to primer / paint, when we rechecked the fit of the flares because I didn't like the way the spacing looked.. it seemed a tad lower on one side.. checked the fit and sure enough, somehow due to the complete reconstruction of the fender openings, one side didn't fit quite right... redid today, and going in immediately... AAAAAAA I hate :pee: away time....

Pix soon!

Better that you found it! Good eye!

[d0nt_h8]

http://shookweb.us/NwWhls_10.jpg

http://shookweb.us/NwWhls_11 http://shookweb.us/NwWhls_12

Alright, here are the fenders now that they're done. Taking a break for the weekend, and then going (finally :driving:) for paint. They look much better & I think will actually be sealed even better than before.

...Funny (ok, not SO funny) story about my rims.. the one pictured at the top is the freshly mounted Mickey Thomson Sidebiter, but it's also the ONLY rim I have at moment. Anyone ever have problems with UPS damaging their shipments? 3 of 4 rims came with chips, and one also had a huge gouge on the inner side. All blems were down to the metal. So we sent them back & filed a claim :mad:... called Quadratec & they are being cool- they immediately sent out the replacements.

It will be interesting to see if Monday rolls around and I don't find something else I can 'improve' on, ROFL..

[Mudderoy]

http://shookweb.us/NwWhls_10.jpg

http://shookweb.us/NwWhls_11 http://shookweb.us/NwWhls_12

Alright, here are the fenders now that they're done. Taking a break for the weekend, and then going (finally :driving:) for paint. They look much better & I think will actually be sealed even better than before.

...Funny (ok, not SO funny) story about my rims.. the one pictured at the top is the freshly mounted Mickey Thomson Sidebiter, but it's also the ONLY rim I have at moment. Anyone ever have problems with UPS damaging their shipments? 3 of 4 rims came with chips, and one also had a huge gouge on the inner side. All blems were down to the metal. So we sent them back & filed a claim :mad:... called Quadratec & they are being cool- they immediately sent out the replacements.

It will be interesting to see if Monday rolls around and I don't find something else I can 'improve' on, ROFL..

I was a little concerned when I was waiting for my bumper from detours. Mark told me that UPS had BENT one of them that he had sent to another customer. I mean how do you bend a bumper in shipment!?!?!

[4.3LXJ]

I was a little concerned when I was waiting for my bumper from detours. Mark told me that UPS had BENT one of them that he had sent to another customer. I mean how do you bend a bumper in shipment!?!?!

It is called fork lift. The drivers on the docks are paid to be fast and sometimes those forks damage things. I sent my 2.8L engine to Maine. When it arrived it had a big hole in the pan and starter was damaged. It happens.

[Mudderoy]

It is called fork lift. The drivers on the docks are paid to be fast and sometimes those forks damage things. I sent my 2.8L engine to Maine. When it arrived it had a big hole in the pan and starter was damaged. It happens.

Makes perfect sense. Never even thought about it. In my mind I saw hundreds of brown clad workers moving boxes around by hand. Ok ok, sometimes they are female super models in tight uniforms, but I digress...

[d0nt_h8]

It is called fork lift. The drivers on the docks are paid to be fast and sometimes those forks damage things. I sent my 2.8L engine to Maine. When it arrived it had a big hole in the pan and starter was damaged. It happens.

Yeah, that DOES make sense, but really? What kind of bumper car action is going on at those loading stations which would bend a bumper? Aftermarket bumpers are quite stout, lol.. <shudder :headshake: shudder> lol... that had to be a nice little accident. :stars:

I guess they're not paid to care, just load, lol... but hey I guess I can't complain too much at a simple delay. They are gonna look killer when on my rig!

[BlueXJ]

Yeah I bought some glass for my old car and UPS managed to break it but I had it insured so no out of pocket expense but they are getting harder to find. Parts for 70 year old cars are getting scarce.

[KennyB]

HOLY CRAP----The kid that had mine didn;t dick the fenders up that bad.... Wow and I thougth I had a BUCKET.... But the motor, trans, X-fer case and axels are still in good shape...But mine is gonna get beat anyhow,,,,

[d0nt_h8]

HOLY CRAP----The kid that had mine didn;t dick the fenders up that bad.... Wow and I thougth I had a BUCKET.... But the motor, trans, X-fer case and axels are still in good shape...But mine is gonna get beat anyhow,,,,

That was really what made me decide to pick this one up.. Other than the fenders, it was cared for very well. There were just too many good things about it to pass up. I'm not the type of guy who will go out and beat this type of vehicle.. for that I'd pick up a beater to create out of spare parts.. :cool:

This one is gonna be killer when finished tho... hoping to get a pic or two on the home page of XJT, ROFL <hint hint>

[d0nt_h8]

BTW, anyone know off hand if those black square JK racks will fit in the cargo area of an XJ? Just thinking of some ideas for that space...

[96xj]

YouTube- Forklift Accident *EPIC FAIL*

[d0nt_h8]

Alright, double coating of color and 4 coats of clear applied today to exterior- It's looking MONSTER! Can't wait to see it done. Tell me what u think!

Also, last pic is of vent placement. Bought a new hood for it. Went to do the cutting for the vents and found (ok, acknowledged, lol) out that the braces were separating more than I was comfortable with for the long term, so I went ahead & picked up a new one.

Also, decided that while the interior panels were off for paint, it would be a good idea to go ahead & replace it. I was going to anyway, so it was just cheaper & easier.

:shocker:
http://shookweb.us/12-07-009-1.jpghttp://shookweb.us/12-07-009-2.jpg
http://shookweb.us/12-07-009-3.jpghttp://shookweb.us/12-07-09-4.jpg

[BlueXJ]

Very professional looking. JEALOUS!!!

[KennyB]

WOW----That thing looks really BAD!! I think it needs to be in my gargae for like----3 years so I can figure out excatly what is wrong with it!!! :):):) Kiddin man!! Bitchin!!! I can;t wait to see it finished!!! I love the idea of bringin back buckets to life instead of CASH FOR CLUNKERIN it and it hittin the crusher....or gettin a new one...

[d0nt_h8]

YouTube- Forklift Accident *EPIC FAIL* (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=na3Bzrmljd0)

LoL wow seeing that makes me happy I even got MOST of my parts intact:smiley-gen165: I realize that's not each day, but I'll bet the insurance claim on that was amazing, lol..

I'm still waiting on my 3 rims, lol... we'll see if they can do it on the second try. :rotfl2:

[d0nt_h8]

WOW----That thing looks really BAD!! I think it needs to be in my gargae for like----3 years so I can figure out excatly what is wrong with it!!! :):):) Kiddin man!! Bitchin!!! I can;t wait to see it finished!!! I love the idea of bringin back buckets to life instead of CASH FOR CLUNKERIN it and it hittin the crusher....or gettin a new one...

LoL... that's like the 3rd time I've been asked that :) Thank you for the compliment... she IS gonna be a Bad B***h! I saved for a couple of years to do this refurb, so I'm happy to have it almost complete... pics of the finished product will be posted by next week! :camera:

[Mudderoy]

Yes, I'm really enjoying this thread as well. I thought it looked good in the before pictures. Of course those weren't close up and I couldn't really tell the tubs where floating. lol

I guess you weren't concerned about getting paint on your tires. It will be interesting seeing the after pictures.

[d0nt_h8]

Yes, I'm really enjoying this thread as well. I thought it looked good in the before pictures. Of course those weren't close up and I couldn't really tell the tubs where floating. lol

I guess you weren't concerned about getting paint on your tires. It will be interesting seeing the after pictures.

I can understand how it looks like paint... Actually, that's fiberglass dust from sanding.. if you'll notice, it's not on any of the other tires. Yeah that's the fender that got redone because it sat a tad lower than the driver side rear. I found it as I was rolling it in for primer, immediately backed it up and started working on it..:yack: didn't even remove the tire.. lol :rolleyes:

[TheWeiss]

What did you use for the vents?

[d0nt_h8]

What did you use for the vents?

Those are made by a company called 'Run cool'. Clicky (http://www.raceace.com/)

[d0nt_h8]

Ok, here we go... these will be the last pics before she's complete.. the rig will have line-x on both bumpers, the roof, and the lower panels all the way around.

This is the rig getting ready to exit the garage for line-x treatment
http://shookweb.us/12-10-009-1.jpg

http://shookweb.us/12-10-009-2.jpg
I'll be using the all black wheels you see in the front

http://shookweb.us/12-10-009-3.jpg
The difference in color is due to the color-sanding stage of the process

http://shookweb.us/12-10-009-4.jpg
And finally some more goodies.. new aftermarket tail lights.. I love em!

After Line-x it's back for assembly with all the new parts & extras. I'll take a couple of pix when done, then on to the first trip in the rig over NYE!:D:driving:

[Silly Willy]

Very nice looking XJ. I must say Im a big fan of the 4 door ones though.

[d0nt_h8]

Thanks- I decided on the 2-door for something different.. I haven't seen many modded ones over the years, so I thought I'd give it a try!

[Silly Willy]

Thanks- I decided on the 2-door for something different.. I haven't seen many modded ones over the years, so I thought I'd give it a try!

What other mods are you planning? Also if you don't mind me asking whats the "something different..."?

[d0nt_h8]

What other mods are you planning? Also if you don't mind me asking whats the "something different..."?

See page 1. After that, I'd need you to be more specific in order to answer your question. I'd say that most people do not own this type of vehicle.. I don't think.:thumbsup:

[d0nt_h8]

...I couldn't resist putting up a sneek peak of the rig.:camera:

She's coming together- Paint is on, waiting for line-x treatment. Gotta wait 2 days until rain situation
clears. Nice front side view tho:
http://shookweb.us/12-12-009-sneekpeak.jpg
http://shookweb.us/12-12-009-01.jpghttp://shookweb.us/12-12-009-02.jpghttp://shookweb.us/12-12-009-04.jpg
Finally received the other 3 rims- flawless! It does have the wrong tail lights.. gotta switch those out for black. Damn mix up!

[4.3LXJ]

Nice paint job. Looks real good. Paint mine next?

[d0nt_h8]

LoL, I can't help but post my progress.. but wanted to give u an update- having to repaint a door....

:sad0147:This is what happens when you rush to pull off the tape:
http://shookweb.us/12-16-09-001.jpg

Other than that, all else is good... aside from the door, I'm reassembling now.. here's a shot at some stuff- New Warn bumper, completely sprayed with liner, and my new winch assembled & almost completely installed:
http://shookweb.us/12-16-09-002.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

tough break

[KennyB]

We like it in GA!!! But we got too many TREES here and the PURTY NEW Paint would take a BEATIN in them thar woods....but I think it looks bitchin man!! Good job...What ya got in it now, IF ya don;t mind...was thinkin of reworkin one myself for a Gro Getter and such,,,Rather re-work an old one, than spend 30,000.00 grand on a new one!!! Already have a new JK 4 door,,,,

[d0nt_h8]

We like it in GA!!! But we got too many TREES here and the PURTY NEW Paint would take a BEATIN in them thar woods....but I think it looks bitchin man!! Good job...What ya got in it now, IF ya don;t mind...was thinkin of reworkin one myself for a Gro Getter and such,,,Rather re-work an old one, than spend 30,000.00 grand on a new one!!! Already have a new JK 4 door,,,,

LoL.. well it's not going to be a complete 'streeter'.. It's for trails, mountains & desert.. we do have a good share of timber up here in NorCal, so between all that different type of terrain I'm sure scratches & stuff will happen, lol.. No way I'm doing all this to drive exclusively on the street :driving:

Door's done now.. just waiting for the paint to cure & then I'll be putting it back on.. right now, mounting the other three wheels, finishing the winch, and putting on the roof rack! After that, gonna finish the wiring.... :stars:

[d0nt_h8]

We like it in GA!!! But we got too many TREES here and the PURTY NEW Paint would take a BEATIN in them thar woods....but I think it looks bitchin man!! Good job...What ya got in it now, IF ya don;t mind...was thinkin of reworkin one myself for a Gro Getter and such,,,Rather re-work an old one, than spend 30,000.00 grand on a new one!!! Already have a new JK 4 door,,,,

LoL.. and to answer your question, I've got about $4k worth of parts into it. Big ticket items were bumpers (replaced both, both were shot), rack and such... but you'd be amazed at how much smaller things like a new set of door rubber cost (about $800 bucks wholesale..) so what you would think are 'little' things actually end up costing a metric a$$load to replace.. and those things were actually needed.. this is meant to be a full refurb.. and one which will equip the rig for international travel.. by now all of the weather/exposure heavy pieces were about thru.. she is 17, and was in need of some TLC... so everything exterior was replaced from bumper to bumper with the exception of the side & rear windows/hatch glass, and the front headlights.

The next step is to refresh my suspension parts, then start on the interior. That's where I'm adding the tech.. I plan on doing some treks to both Canada and Alaska, so I'm going to rework the interior.. :thumbsup:

[d0nt_h8]

Wow, it's been a long hard trip but she's done. Finished. Complete. Ok, well I don't think I'll ever be finished working on her, lol..

Pics to come very very (did I say Very?) soon. LoL the delay came in that we had to paint the passenger side door a THIRD (yes, that's 3) time. This happened because when installing the side mirror, it dropped- and when I went to hopefully deflect the mirror with my knee, all I did was catch it between my knee and the door, scraping the damn thing..

So, I'm taking her out this afternoon.. I'll be putting up pics before the weekend is thru =-)

:driving:

[Mudderoy]

Wow, it's been a long hard trip but she's done. Finished. Complete. Ok, well I don't think I'll ever be finished working on her, lol..

Pics to come very very (did I say Very?) soon. LoL the delay came in that we had to paint the passenger side door a THIRD (yes, that's 3) time. This happened because when installing the side mirror, it dropped- and when I went to hopefully deflect the mirror with my knee, all I did was catch it between my knee and the door, scraping the damn thing..

So, I'm taking her out this afternoon.. I'll be putting up pics before the weekend is thru =-)

:driving:

I know your happy to be done. Looking forward to the pics. :patriot:

[d0nt_h8]

I know your happy to be done. Looking forward to the pics. :patriot:

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have the 1st pics of the completely finished rig:
http://shookweb.us/01-09-10-1.jpg

More to come but
http://shookweb.us/01-09-10-2.jpg

not too bad for some first shots
http://shookweb.us/01-09-10-3.jpg

Pics taken in Marysville, CA at a riverbed..

[Mudderoy]

Nicely done. Thanks for the pictures. The paint job looks very professional.

[d0nt_h8]

Nicely done. Thanks for the pictures. The paint job looks very professional.

Yep, like I commented earlier that's because it IS professional.. I wanted to do my own, but living in the city I don't have the equipment :mad: My buddy did a great job tho, and I'm only pleased with the results!

Now it's time to refresh the front end stabilizers, shocks & suspension before doing a real trail run. Even tho I'll run some small trails here and there, the first real test will be spring.. doing an Arizona run. After that comes the next level- I'm planning a 5-state trek to Yellowstone. What I'd like to do is OR trails the entire way, but I'm not sure that's possible... anyone know of a resource for planning something like that? :coffee:

[KennyB]

Man oh Man----I REALLY Like it!!! Turned out great, and as long as you guys are happy with it,,,all the better....Now that is WAY cooler than going out and throwin 30,000 grand at something ys still have to invest in to make capable.... GOOD JOB!!! :patriot::patriot::patriot:

[d0nt_h8]

Hey everyone, ok mas pics of the Rig. Ran a couple of trails near Auburn, CA
http://shookweb.us/1-9-10_3.JPG
http://shookweb.us/1-9-10_4.JPG

Ah... nice side view.. Gonna give the front another 1.5" of lift with some coil overs. That freekin' passenger door was painted a total of 4 times, lol.. it was like it didn't WANT any paint..
http://shookweb.us/1-9-10_6.JPG

Decided on Rhino-Lining for lower sides, flares & bumpers as well as roof.
http://shookweb.us/1-9-10_7.JPG
http://shookweb.us/1-9-10_8.JPG

More shots in Marysville
http://shookweb.us/1-9-10_9.JPG

My dog Syd negotiating a rocky patch, lol
http://shookweb.us/1-9-10_11.JPG

[Mudderoy]

Everything is spot on but the tail lights. If you like them though...

Great pictures, thanks for sharing. Lots of work on the rig and it shows.

[Silly Willy]

Everything is spot on but the tail lights. If you like them though...

Great pictures, thanks for sharing. Lots of work on the rig and it shows.

X2 Looks very clean, go play in the mud, then take a few more for us. ;)

[alwaysxj]

looks good but i don't know about the tail lights.

[d0nt_h8]

ROFL.. yep.. like I mentioned in an earlier post, the tail lights have GOT to go.. I ordered black, and got THOSE. Wanting to drive it, I left em on... ordering a different set after the 1st! They totally don't match, LoL

[96xj]

i love your rig so much so bad @$$ , but those tail lights just dont work for me just my 2 cents that is the only thing that i would change :rolleyes::thumbsup:

[Mudderoy]

ROFL.. yep.. like I mentioned in an earlier post, the tail lights have GOT to go.. I ordered black, and got THOSE. Wanting to drive it, I left em on... ordering a different set after the 1st! They totally don't match, LoL

You are right, I forgot all about that. Thanks. I feel better now.

Did you give any thought to the off road LED lights? Like the one's in the JCR posts? Those would really fit the hard core off road look you have.

I know people will argue how hard core can it be with bushwackers...

[d0nt_h8]

You are right, I forgot all about that. Thanks. I feel better now.

Did you give any thought to the off road LED lights? Like the one's in the JCR posts? Those would really fit the hard core off road look you have.

I know people will argue how hard core can it be with bushwackers...



I've been looking high & low for some decent, different tail lights.. you mentioned JCR has them- gonna look tonight! Thanks!:thumbsup:

[d0nt_h8]

You are right, I forgot all about that. Thanks. I feel better now.

Did you give any thought to the off road LED lights? Like the one's in the JCR posts? Those would really fit the hard core off road look you have.

I know people will argue how hard core can it be with bushwackers...

Hey Mudd-
I was looking on the JCR site... I love those lights.. but I'm looking for a pair of those tail light boxes WITHOUT the side panel protector... know of anyone who does em that way? Thanks!

[Mudderoy]

Hey Mudd-
I was looking on the JCR site... I love those lights.. but I'm looking for a pair of those tail light boxes WITHOUT the side panel protector... know of anyone who does em that way? Thanks!

Did you see these?

:link: (http://www.xjtalk.com/showthread.php?t=1817)

[d0nt_h8]

Did you see these?

:link: (http://www.xjtalk.com/showthread.php?t=1817)

Nope... and I thought I looked at all of the pages, lol... those ones without the attached armor are the ones... I'm gonna contact them... thanks again!!

[Mudderoy]

Nope... and I thought I looked at all of the pages, lol... those ones without the attached armor are the ones... I'm gonna contact them... thanks again!!

That is a link from xjtalk. JCROffroad is a member here and they posted those, so they may not be on their site. I think those would be perfect for your rig.

Oh, make sure you tell them you are from xjtalk (a member)!

[d0nt_h8]

Man oh Man----I REALLY Like it!!! Turned out great, and as long as you guys are happy with it,,,all the better....Now that is WAY cooler than going out and throwin 30,000 grand at something ys still have to invest in to make capable.... GOOD JOB!!! :patriot::patriot::patriot:

Thanks much... it was a killer project... and so much fun.. With the exception of the tail lights, it is exactly what I set out to do. I have to admit, I did get frustrated with the having to repaint the door 4 times thing.. but I guess each project has it's challenges.. overall it was great, and now I have a capable, costing-much-less-than-new vehicle which looks great, runs great, and will be a solid performer probably for as long as I can drive, lol.. I'll break things, scratch things, and dent things, but the refurb was needed, and turned out great!

Also, I heard a saying a while back that rings true: "Take your best cost & time estimates and double them." While I estimated the costs spot-on, my time estimates were exactly doubled. I credit the accuracy in the cost estimate to be due to the fact that I knew exactly what I wanted. So to everyone planning those projects, get a clear vision of what you want down to the last nut & bolt. It was a fun challenge, which is going to continue as I refurb both the interior and the suspension next..

All in all, the following was spent (allegedly, lol:rolleye0012:):

Vehicle: $4k
Refurb Parts: $3.5k (parts only, any refurb labor is on you or a mechanic, lol)
Paint: $3k (Friend & I did work because I had neither space nor equip, but obviously had to pay for at least some time) I realize many of you out there do all of the work yourself- and for that I salute you. I am such a gearhead at heart, but dammit Scotty, I can't do.. it.. all! LoL :boohoo:

I suppose I approached the project much like some of the 4x4 or Jeep 'zines do: find a solid fixer, and do the damn thang taking into careful consideration knowing exactly what you can do, and what you can't. What you can't personally do, farm out as much as you can afford. For example, I wanted my bumpers and lower panels all treated with liner. I do lots of desert stuff which has tons of brush, etc.. I also do mountain stuff which has timber.. so I needed an Liner which was much more robust than the stuff you do yourself (I'm sorry, even in multiple coats, this stuff is thicker than a home-job). I chose a guy who did Rhino-lining, and I'm very happy with it. The job turned out great, and for what I do personally, it's gonna last me for a very long time!

As I upgrade the interior, suspension and eventually, the engine, I'll keep everyone posted. As I mentioned originally, I'm actually creating a 'trek' vehicle.. which is much more than just a 4x4, lol.. I plan on having everything done with the same quality and attention to detail as on the exterior.. Also, is there anyone out there who has ever, ever considered doing a bio-diesel Cherokee conversion project? If so, contact me.. Yes, It's a very 'California' thing to do, I know.. :smiley-whacky097:

[4.3LXJ]

. After that comes the next level- I'm planning a 5-state trek to Yellowstone. What I'd like to do is OR trails the entire way, but I'm not sure that's possible... anyone know of a resource for planning something like that? :coffee:

Do a google search for off road trails. there are a couple of companies that have a good list. Then instead of buying the book you can search trails individually. There is getting to be lots of information on them. If you check the CA trails here, that is how I did the list.

[4.3LXJ]

One more thing. I understand there i some good challenging wheeling around the outside of Yellowstone crater. It is on my list of things to do also. What states are you considering?

[d0nt_h8]

One more thing. I understand there i some good challenging wheeling around the outside of Yellowstone crater. It is on my list of things to do also. What states are you considering?

We want to go Cali-Coastal all the way to Seattle, then across Idaho to Montana, then finally down into Wyoming... on the return trip we'll be coming thru Utah and Nevada. There is some primo wheeling in these states I know.. so I'd love to do some of the great, less populated ones!:driving:

[d0nt_h8]

Hey, anyone know of a source where i can get a NEW replacement dash? I'm looking everywhere online.. but can't seem to locate any..

[4.3LXJ]

We want to go Cali-Coastal all the way to Seattle, then across Idaho to Montana, then finally down into Wyoming... on the return trip we'll be coming thru Utah and Nevada. There is some primo wheeling in these states I know.. so I'd love to do some of the great, less populated ones!:driving:

Most of the really good wheeling is in the Sierras. You might want to consider the Rubicon, about three hours drive away is the Fordyce Creek trail and associated trails around it. Two hours from there near where I live there is High Lakes which is really good also. One place that is high on my list is the Oregon dunes at Coos Bay. In OR you need to visit Tillamook State Forest. Down I 84 is the Naches Trail. I don't know what is in Idaho.

[d0nt_h8]

Most of the really good wheeling is in the Sierras. You might want to consider the Rubicon, about three hours drive away is the Fordyce Creek trail and associated trails around it. Two hours from there near where I live there is High Lakes which is really good also. One place that is high on my list is the Oregon dunes at Coos Bay. In OR you need to visit Tillamook State Forest. Down I 84 is the Naches Trail. I don't know what is in Idaho.

Here's my to do list so far. Goal is to do at least one good trail (preferably more) in each state:

*Cali: Humboldt/Trinity
*Oregon: Mt. Hood & Tillamook
*Washington: Olympic Nat'l park
*Idaho: Coer D' Alene Nat'l forest
*Montana: Flathead Nat'l forest
*Wyoming: Yellowstone
*Utah: Moab
*Nevada: Fordyce

If anyone has suggestions.. give em up! I have all summer off! I plan on taking at least 25-30 hours of video footage, but in reality it will probably be much more.. I have some hood/roof mount camera pods I'll be using for trails. I plan on planting geocaches at certain points on the route. If I do things right I'll be able to create a new thread & post our progress as we go. Should make for some great real time views!

Also, if anyone has tips for preparation of a trip of this sort by all means let me know. I'll be quite prepared I'm sure, but I'm always open to a better way to do something, lol!

[BlueXJ]

Good list. I would be proud to do even half that list.

[rguignard]

VERY NICE xj what do you plan on for the suspension ? :thumbsup:

[d0nt_h8]

VERY NICE xj what do you plan on for the suspension ? :thumbsup:

What it has now: 5.5" RE Lift, SYE, sway-bar disconnects, regeared to 4:56

What it's getting:
*Dual Steering stabilizers. Still drifts a little on the fwy due to the 35s..
*Fresh shocks all around. Probably Bilstiens.
*Adjustable coil-over spacers. Still need a touch more clearance (to make me comfortable) when it's under flex. This will add immediate 1.5". Adjustable to more.

Side Note: I'll also be adding more power at this time to my electrical system. Going with a dual-Optima setup to accompany my hi-output alternator, since I still have gear to add which will draw on the system. Anyone have a setup they like for this?

PS- I'm still looking for a source for a new dash for the rig. Any info or options would be appreciated. Is there a custom dash kit out there maybe?

[4.3LXJ]

What it has now: 5.5" RE Lift, SYE, sway-bar disconnects, regeared to 4:56

What it's getting:
*Dual Steering stabilizers. Still drifts a little on the fwy due to the 35s..
*Fresh shocks all around. Probably Bilstiens.
*Adjustable coil-over spacers. Still need a touch more clearance (to make me comfortable) when it's under flex. This will add immediate 1.5". Adjustable to more.

Side Note: I'll also be adding more power at this time to my electrical system. Going with a dual-Optima setup to accompany my hi-output alternator, since I still have gear to add which will draw on the system. Anyone have a setup they like for this?

PS- I'm still looking for a source for a new dash for the rig. Any info or options would be appreciated. Is there a custom dash kit out there maybe?


Here is a wiring diagram.

http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu215/warriorsuspension/WiringDiagram008.jpg

Solenoid in the center is a 250 amp continuous duty. These batteries are isolated with the key off.

[d0nt_h8]

Here is a wiring diagram.

http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu215/warriorsuspension/WiringDiagram008.jpg

Solenoid in the center is a 250 amp continuous duty. These batteries are isolated with the key off.

You SO rock right now. Thanks!

[KennyB]

OK OK....NOW THAT YOUR DONE WITH THAT ONE- I got one in Ga that you can can do up.....:driving::driving:

[d0nt_h8]

OK OK....NOW THAT YOUR DONE WITH THAT ONE- I got one in Ga that you can can do up.....:driving::driving:

Sure, lol... now if you can arrange to fill in for my at my day job, I'll drive out next week, ROFL...:D