Project Cheap XJ

[Pinkyman]

Check out your power and ground cables before you do the starter. Even stock thy weren't all that great, and just a little corrosion inside the cable can make a huge difference.

I will be checking this this week. I need to figure it out especially since now it wont start :-(

Im also thinking ill be taking my pinion shims out, and getting my transfer case drop in this weekend, and see if that fixes my vibration or not...

[Pinkyman]

Well, I can almost pinpoint it being the starter now. My battery is definitely good, and now it just clicks down at the starter. I tapped it with a hammer, and it turned over so slow that it still wouldn't start.

The interior lights did not dim at all when the starter clicked.

I should be getting the new starter in tomorrow night.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160225_173901_zpsvcg2qgsa.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160225_173901_zpsvcg2qgsa.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I got the new starter in, so at least it's mobile again.


I pulled the front driveshaft, since it seemed like my yoke was a little loose, but that made no difference. Ugh, I just need to pull those shims out and get that transfer case drop in to get rid of this nasty vibration. I'm getting sick of not being able to drive this thing.

[Pinkyman]

I finally installed my t-case drop this morning. I was surprised that the bolts came out with only hand tools, and the stud came out fairly easily with some heat from the torch.

The vibration is still there at 65 or so, but it's barely even noticeable. It's a thousand times better now, and I think it will be 100% as soon as I remove those rear shims. But for now, I'm calling it good!


She's getting there, and I'm really happy with how it looks! I may go a notch down on the rear shackles though. She's got about 3/4" of rake.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160228_101106_zpsgwu5rqui.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160228_101106_zpsgwu5rqui.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160228_101057_zpsq7ivrxhr.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160228_101057_zpsq7ivrxhr.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Nice work! She's really coming together.

Didn't you go up on the shackles due to them hitting the body?

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

I did. But I may have jumped the gun. That was with 860 lbs of flooring in the back.

I really need to get the camper hooked up and see how it sits. If they don't hit the body with the camper loaded and hooked up, I will be happy.

[Pinkyman]

I scored big tonight! I picked up this thule roof basket (38x44) for $20! Now I need to come up with some mounts!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208777117134982_zps0cs5cmdb.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208777117134982_zps0cs5cmdb.jpeg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208777118255010_zpssfojpjnr.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208777118255010_zpssfojpjnr.jpeg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I also got it washed up this morning. It really needs a coat of wax or 10.... But it looks alright for what it is lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_074123_zpsakvuqhyq.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_074123_zpsakvuqhyq.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_074219_zpsqousew4f.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160301_074219_zpsqousew4f.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

For $200 I say it looks amazing! Looks like a $3k jeep now.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[blazer2]

That xj looks amazing

[Pinkyman]

That xj looks amazing

Thanks! It's taken alot of work to get it as far as its come.

I got my $20 roof basket! Now I have to defrost it so my cross bars move again, then I can get it all mounted up!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160301_181509_zpsfsrkf8cv.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160301_181509_zpsfsrkf8cv.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

This morning i got my cross bars to move. 2 of the buttons work, the other 2 i had to use a needle nose to move them. But once i get it where i like it, i shouldnt need to move it for a while, if ever.

Now i just need some small u-bolts to hold it down, and i should be set! I also may get some sort of bungee system to hold things down, and a spare tire mount for one of my Moab wheels.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160302_060144_zpsosy3maiz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160302_060144_zpsosy3maiz.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160302_060057_zpsdft5jgww.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160302_060057_zpsdft5jgww.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Nice score on that basket :thumbsup:

[Pinkyman]

So I took my pinion shims out tonight, now I just have the tcase drop, no change. The vibration is still there slightly at 30mph and very noticeable at 65 or so.

I think I may have found the issue. This sh*t is starting to get old.... This was taken while parked in the garage, with the wheels on the ground.

http://youtu.be/xm6lbSgkzDQ

[Mudderoy]

So I took my pinion shims out tonight, now I just have the tcase drop, no change. The vibration is still there slightly at 30mph and very noticeable at 65 or so.

I think I may have found the issue. This sh*t is starting to get old.... This was taken while parked in the garage, with the wheels on the ground.

http://youtu.be/xm6lbSgkzDQ (https://youtu.be/xm6lbSgkzDQ)

axle u-joints? Other than getting the wheel bearing off, it's a pretty easy job.

[Pinkyman]

I'm still not convinced that that's it, since it seems like it's coming from the rear still. Is it possible for a pinion bearing to cause a vibration?

I may need to pull the rear driveshaft and go for a spin and see what happens...

[GoneWithTheWind]

That's a nice little Blitz bike you got your son. I know a lot of people that would like to ride it down a steep hill! :) I'm sorry I can't help you with your Jeep problem.

[Pinkyman]

I took the Xj out behind my house today for some practice with the D90. They aren't great, but they are definitely getting better!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/DSC_0394_zpsxtupfhiy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/DSC_0394_zpsxtupfhiy.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0400_zpsjwykqsuz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0400_zpsjwykqsuz.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0414_zpsidreisju.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0414_zpsidreisju.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0390_zpseimqvugj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0390_zpseimqvugj.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0383_zpsq2ucpxas.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0383_zpsq2ucpxas.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0403_zpswergqo6g.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0403_zpswergqo6g.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I scored a few parts from a buddy of mine today. I got a new extended rear brake line, an adjustable track bar, and some 4" coil springs and 2" coil spacers. He went to a 6.5" long arm, so he is donating his old stuff to me. Now i just have to figure out how in going to raise the rear another couple of inches....

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10153570943313495_zpscms6wywh.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10153570943313495_zpscms6wywh.jpeg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10153690204198495_zpsezbwfkft.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10153690204198495_zpsezbwfkft.jpeg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I also have a guy that is supposed to come pick up my moab wheels and tires. Hes trading me some 31" Definity Dakota M/Ts plus cash. With the money ill more than likely be getting the IRO hack n tap, and new exhaust.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/received_1272547759429245_zpszcvwngje.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/received_1272547759429245_zpszcvwngje.jpeg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well I sold my Grizzly wheels, and had to put my moabs back on until I get my new set of wheels and tires.

I also signed up for the Crawl for the Cure today. It's a big MN event 3 hours North of me on the range. My wife and little man are coming with, and my wife is super excited! Now I just have to get this thing trail worthy, and make sure it'll make it 3 hours each way hauling the camper.

I will be working on the following shortly to get it ready for July:

Extended brake lines
More lift (an inch or so) at least to make it level
Cb radio
Fire extinguisher
Install my front tow points
New wheels and tires
Possibly cut and fold my fenders
Replace radiator/do coolant flush
Install hack n tap
Weld in frame reinforcements
Possibly quick disconnects for the front sway bar
Install my cargo basket
New cat back exhaust


There's also a big Jeep swap meet next weekend that I will be attending. I'm hoping I can pick up some much needed parts there.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160403_102339_zps99izojmx.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160403_102339_zps99izojmx.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Remember picking up this jeep for $200 and not knowing what you were gonna do with it... :D Come a long way!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

So i was curious about my overall lift height, so i took some measurements this morning.

Im at just about 20" Hub to fender on all 4 corners. Is it right that im only getting about 3" of lift in the front, and 2.5" in the rear??? Im at 35" FTG on all 4 corners.

My rear IRO leafs were 3.5"s, and i have a shackle on it that "should" gain me another inch. My current coils are 3.5", and I have some 4" coils, 2" coil spacers, and 1.25" coil spacers sitting at home. I just need to find out which ones i should install.

Its got some decent rake now, and i dont want to get a bunch of reverse rake where its taller in the front. I may need to find some longer shackles to try to get another inch out of the rear.


Picture of rake:

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160403_102136_zpscxfkiz8s.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160403_102136_zpscxfkiz8s.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

When it was new, it had a rake. They settle in the back over time. Are you wanting to level it?

[Pinkyman]

When it was new, it had a rake. They settle in the back over time. Are you wanting to level it?

According to my measurements, its level, but according to my eyes it is not lol.

I would like to level it, but i guess im just kind of bummed that my 3.5" coils are only netting me 2.5" of lift...... I would like to go another inch or two all around, but my rear leafs are basically new, and i dont want to have to replace them again :(

[4.3LXJ]

You are right, a wee bit short

[Pinkyman]

You are right, a wee bit short

Exactly. And im really bummed about these findings. I have shackles in the rear too, they are supposed to give me another inch.........

I may need to add a leaf to the rear or something. I would be happy with a couple more inches in the rear, and i can replace my front coils and get a couple more inches out of the front.

[4.3LXJ]

One thing to remember is that if you go over 4.5" in the front, it will ride like crap. I realize the bigger is better, but you might want to be thinking about some long arms in the front. I can sense the desire for altitude :D

[Pinkyman]

One thing to remember is that if you go over 4.5" in the front, it will ride like crap. I realize the bigger is better, but you might want to be thinking about some long arms in the front. I can sense the desire for altitude :D

Haha yes, the desire is there....... :D

I was thinking of either installing my 4.5" coil springs, or my 1.25" coil spacers in the front. But then i need a way to raise the rear another inch or so too.... I suppose i could use different shackles, or *couch*blocks*cough*.

[4.3LXJ]

If I could make a suggestion. Think about what kind of performance you want and then get some coils and a shackle relocation kit. Front coils come in different rates. I prefer a softer coil so it flexes better. However with softer springs, comes less cornering ability. Generally rear spring kits for XJs are a little stiff for my taste. But they are this way to increase cornering ability. Study some flex pics and look at front and rear flexing, and you will see what I mean. Bear in mind that stock spring rates are around 170# per inch. Also you are probably going to have to get some longer shocks. Shock rates also affect ride greatly. So do some studying and consider how you want it to perform long term before you proceed.

[Pinkyman]

I went to the mn4wd swap meet today, and scored a brand new IRO hack n tap for $25!! I just hope my np231 is a 27 spline. If not, it's only $25 lol.

I also got a new track bar, longer rear shackles, 2" coil spacers, and 4" front coils for free from a buddy of mine that went there with me.

I guess it's time to break out the spring compressor and take some measurements to figure out the right combination to use, and get to work!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160409_115016_zps6ksxti5g.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160409_115016_zps6ksxti5g.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160409_120221_zpsg36jfupr.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160409_120221_zpsg36jfupr.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Sweet! I wish we had 4wd swap meets. All the old hotrodders give me funny looks when I ask if they have anything for a jeep xj...

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[blazer2]

Great score

[Pinkyman]

Welp, im thinking ill pick up Jakes wheels and tires this weekend, and get rolling on the new lift components.

This looks like a lot more lift than i have, but thats the look i would like to achieve.

I may have to add a leaf to the rear or a block or something, because even with the longer shackles ill only be at 3.5" in the rear.... I guess we will see what happens when its all together this weekend (hopefully)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/DSC05496_zpsdqp5tukr.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/DSC05496_zpsdqp5tukr.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well I made the few hour drive yesterday, and finally got to meet Mr. Xj-Jake, and pick up those wheels and tires from him.

On the way home, I stopped at caribou, and sat in line for like 20 minutes. When I was sitting there, my temp gauge kept bouncing between 0 and 210 for some reason. As I left, I noticed clouds of smoke coming off the rear, and it got what looks to be oil or something all over my rear hatch....

My coolant is in dire need of a flush, and it looks like mud. So I'm hoping it was something to do with that.... I need to get it in the garage and work on the lift, and swap wheels and tires and flush the coolant and see what happens.

Here's her new shoes

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160423_083818_zpsahet4ayv.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160423_083818_zpsahet4ayv.jpg.html)


Here's the mess on my rear hatch....

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160423_101401_zpspanxvqyk.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160423_101401_zpspanxvqyk.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Could be the trans heated up setting there and spewed a bit. Had it happen on a twisty mountain pass before.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Could be the trans heated up setting there and spewed a bit. Had it happen on a twisty mountain pass before.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

I suppose that could be.

Is it possible that my cruddy coolant is not doing an adequate job of cooling the transmission fluid? (Thats probably the dumbest question youll see all day, lol). Either way, i need to get that crap flushed out and replace my radiator, that way it hopefully wont be an issue. Maybe i need to invest in a trans temp gauge too.

[Pinkyman]

Well, i got my new tires and wheels on last night. I love how they look, but i kind of wish they were a couple of inches bigger.... I will rock them for the time being though, i think they might grow on me.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160425_204856_zpsfhaux6lf.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160425_204856_zpsfhaux6lf.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160426_063123_zpsnn62ywhv.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160426_063123_zpsnn62ywhv.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160426_063105_zpseolfgdr8.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160426_063105_zpseolfgdr8.jpg.html)




I also crawled under it and saw that its got a major oil leak. Thats more than likely where my puff of smoke was coming from the other day. I still dont know if something got hot and leaked, or if i have something pouring out somewhere.....

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160425_200223_zps1bwvhqj2.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160425_200223_zps1bwvhqj2.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160425_200252_zpslgodqwz8.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160425_200252_zpslgodqwz8.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160425_200150_zps5mzvs3ff.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160425_200150_zps5mzvs3ff.jpg.html)








And im embarrassed to post this, but this is why my coolant neesd to be flushed asap....

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160425_200108_zpsuxbqmhpi.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160425_200108_zpsuxbqmhpi.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

I would doubt it would cause it but that oil is probably your cause anyways.

The tires look good. And you're not loosing so much of your drive-ability with not going bigger. Although I understand the desire. :D

My coolant still looks like that. And I've flushed/refilled it numerous times. Along with 2 radiators and a water pump change. Not AS BAD, but still brown. Thinking it would take a tank bath to clean it right. :rolleyes:

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Well that makes me feel slightly better....... That i more than likely just need to fix a major oil leak, and not a head gasket or something. I still need to replace my leaky radiator and flush the coolant anyways. But the oil leak is my main concern as of now.

Maybe i need to torque down all my bolts too. Considering the last trans pan leak i had, all the bolts were ready to fall out lol. I guess i need to degrease it, and maybe replace the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing adapter. I know for sure those are leaking.

[Pinkyman]

Well I think I can safely say I've found my leak.... I checked tonight, and the drivers rear corner looks to have alot of fresh oil coming out of it, and dripping down the block, and under it, dripping off my bell housing and right onto the exhaust. It has also coated my front driveshaft in oil.

I guess I know what I'll be doing this weekend.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160426_205155_zpslfyja6gk.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160426_205155_zpslfyja6gk.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160426_205047_zpsn6zrqscx.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160426_205047_zpsn6zrqscx.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160426_204555_zpsdynkk9hx.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160426_204555_zpsdynkk9hx.jpg.html)

[Pookapotamus]

Boo,urns! Silly little oil leak! Glad you found it!


Having 4WD means getting stuck in more inaccessible places!

[Pinkyman]

Well I got the valve cover off tonight. That thing must have been leaking forever! There's definitely a ton of oil leaking down the block from there. I'm going to get a new gasket set and a bunch of cleaner tomorrow, and goto town on it on Saturday.

With any luck, I'll be getting the lift in, and get the radiator replaced, and get the coolant flushed. And if I can find time, I'll be installing my rough country front tow points.

Here she is. It was leaking bad lol. It looks alright on the inside though.

Also, are my rockers supposed to have slight play to them, or should I snug them down?

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202018_zps4j2fgfow.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202018_zps4j2fgfow.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202057_zpsqqlscvhy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202057_zpsqqlscvhy.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202108_zpssr5o0bkt.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202108_zpssr5o0bkt.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160428_202206_zpsd3qnkhbe.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160428_202206_zpsd3qnkhbe.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Upon visual inspection, the gasket didn't look too bad. But it's pretty obvious it's been leaking for quite some time, and finally gave out.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202013_zpsqxshstrx.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202013_zpsqxshstrx.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202341_zpslg0xmkgb.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160428_202341_zpslg0xmkgb.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

There was only 1 casualty..... Hopefully I can find a new one tomorrow, otherwise some glue or gorilla tape will be in order.... I need to source new vent grommets anyways.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160428_203219_zpsnx6iczi9.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160428_203219_zpsnx6iczi9.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

This is the corner where it was leaking the worst.... If you look, it appears that it really wasn't sealing much at all.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160428_202108_zpsx2dz9aky.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160428_202108_zpsx2dz9aky.jpg.html)

[GoneWithTheWind]

There was only 1 casualty..... Hopefully I can find a new one tomorrow, otherwise some glue or gorilla tape will be in order.... I need to source new vent grommets anyways.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160428_203219_zpsnx6iczi9.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160428_203219_zpsnx6iczi9.jpg.html)

A few layers of shrink tube might get you by for a short term fix.

[Carves]

Is it possible that my cruddy coolant is not doing an adequate job of cooling the transmission fluid? (Thats probably the dumbest question youll see all day, lol)..............

Not so dumb ... lots of folks think the heat exchanger is a, "cooler".

Even good coolant wont do much to cool your tranny fluid. Radiator outlet coolant temps are generally higher - than the tranny oil operating temp, quoted in the factory manual.

Altho ... It can help bring higher/ spike, temps down ... at the risk of increasing the coolant temp somewhat.

As with most things on an XJ ... or a lot of other vehicles ... everything is designed to warm things up ... as quickly as possible.

In their fervour to get that scenario happening in an XJ ... The "experts", seem to have forgotten, to provide adequate safeguards - to prevent overheating in locations anywhere but the snowbound roadway, outside the the factory in Toledo Ohio .. :rolleyes:

So unless you need the warmup feature for spontaneous, short, trips to the mall ... or due to weather conditions ... then bypassing the rad and using a proper cooler is worth considering.



And im embarrassed to post this, but this is why my coolant neesd to be flushed asap....

Good onya for posting ... theres plenty out there that would think that looks good .. :D


My coolant still looks like that. And I've flushed/refilled it numerous times. Along with 2 radiators and a water pump change. Not AS BAD, but still brown. Thinking it would take a tank bath to clean it right. :rolleyes:


I'm beginning to wonder whether your "coolant" companies, actually put any anti-corrosive additives in the eth-gly that you blokes use ??

Since the weather is warming up, up there ... Try flushing everything and put it all back together with the heater core bypassed ... and see if it still gets as murky, in the same amount of time.

Considering how clean the internals were in mine the other day, despite the coolant being deliberately left in for an extra 3yrs past the service life ... as a test,

... there was still a coupla cups of coffee, hiding in the heater core ... and 97+, dont have the tap.

[XJ Wheeler]

I'm pretty sure mine has had some tap water run in it before from some hasty brat that didn't know better... but I was young and naive. [emoji14]

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Carves]

I'm pretty sure mine has had some tap water run in it before from some hasty brat that didn't know better... but I was young and naive. [emoji14]

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.


:smiley-laughing021:

[Pinkyman]

I got the valve cover all cleaned up and installed. So far no more leaks, from that at least.

My AC still seems to be working well also, so that's good that hopefully that is taken care of.

I also got my shackles installed in the rear, and my 1.75" coil spacers up front. So far I'm pretty happy with how it looks.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160501_114018_zpsnx4zfynb.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160501_114018_zpsnx4zfynb.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160501_114504_zpsznzurxbw.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160501_114504_zpsznzurxbw.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Looks like it means business

[blazer2]

Looking good

[Pinkyman]

I got a few coats of undercoating on my sliders last night. I may do a few more tonight in hopes that it lasts a little longer this time. Its just the cheap spray stuff, but it looks 100 times better.

I was thinking maybe ill tape it off and do from the door trim down.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160504_065047_zps3oyu2hfq.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160504_065047_zps3oyu2hfq.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160504_065109_zpscvcwo7jz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160504_065109_zpscvcwo7jz.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160504_065127_zpspad5lvry.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160504_065127_zpspad5lvry.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I got my new CB today, but the antenna, mount, and coax won't be here til tomorrow. I tried to hook it up to the old (circa late 70s) antenna I have, but I couldn't get it to do anything lol. I'll have to try again tomorrow when I get my firestik and everything.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160509_214402_zpsian9xj6g.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160509_214402_zpsian9xj6g.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I finally got my spare tire mounted where it should go.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160511_184458_zpsbewmi6ou.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160511_184458_zpsbewmi6ou.jpg.html)


I also may look into a new wheel and tire setup for next year. I like the height, but it could be a little taller.........and wider.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160509_181638_zpsrm1hgj8j.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160509_181638_zpsrm1hgj8j.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Last night i got my CB, firestik, and cargo basket installed. I need to find a more permanent way to mount the rack, but its getting there!

The only issue so far is that its really hard to read the display on my CB when its mounted where it is. I will have to address that.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160517_200653_zps3gomttff.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160517_200653_zps3gomttff.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160517_200714_zps6sy5whyy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160517_200714_zps6sy5whyy.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160517_200343_zpsam1yru5p.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160517_200343_zpsam1yru5p.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160517_200348_zpskxztjcbc.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160517_200348_zpskxztjcbc.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well this isnt what i was hoping for last night on my way home......

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Screenshot_20160518-175354_zpsigrltlzn.png (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Screenshot_20160518-175354_zpsigrltlzn.png.html)


My lower radiator hose gave out and was shooting coolant everywhere. I limped it home, and now shes parked for a while.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160518_175127_zpsklj3nfbw.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160518_175127_zpsklj3nfbw.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160518_202003_zpsdgymzenj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160518_202003_zpsdgymzenj.jpg.html)



I guess now would be a good time to replace my radiator finally, along with the upper and lower radiator hoses, and i will be replacing my electric fan that i got to work for 5 minutes a few months ago, but i think i need it now...

I also think i found out where my front end clunk is coming from.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160518_202118_zps0yumjxnt.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160518_202118_zps0yumjxnt.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

So i got started on replacing my radiator and hoses, and flushing the system yesterday. Everything went well until the cooler line froze, and i bent it to the point of no return. I ended up cutting it, and now i need to find a way to make this work again without replacing the whole line......

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160522_171530_zpsdjake0oc.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160522_171530_zpsdjake0oc.jpg.html)




I guess this is why my hose blew...... It was paper thin beyond all those cracks.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160522_185518_zpsudrfd0uz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160522_185518_zpsudrfd0uz.jpg.html)




This is what i thought of for a temporary fix, but ill probably get a brass elbow and run rubber line.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160522_190818_zpsjci97xit.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160522_190818_zpsjci97xit.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I also knew that my electric fan hasnt worked since i got the Jeep. I took the fan out and pulled it apart yesterday. I found that on 2 of the 4 brushes, the wire had disconnected from the brush. So i drilled a small hole in the brush itself, and ran a new wire, hooked it back up, and VOILA! I now have a working electric fan, and it kicks on with the AC on just like it should.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/communicatorII_zpskisckazc.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/communicatorII_zpskisckazc.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Shes back on the road again! I drove it in to work this morning, and so far (knock on wood) no transmission or coolant leaks.

This is the highest that the temp gauge went, even with the AC on, while sitting in traffic.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160525_072149_zpslxi4ghlp.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160525_072149_zpslxi4ghlp.jpg.html)


All buttoned up and getting tools put away.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160524_194256_zpsesrjecom.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160524_194256_zpsesrjecom.jpg.html)



Its a relief having a good 50/50 mixture of coolant, along with new hoses and all that. Ill have to test it out over the next few days.

[Pinkyman]

On my way home from work that day, I believe my transmission overheated and started blowing fluid everywhere, and smoking since it pouted on the exhaust. I found my transmission cooler lines were both kinked, you can see it in my other thread, so I got them cut out and replaced with some rubber transmission cooler line.

I also finally installed my rough country tow points (I still need a big bolt for the frame bracket) and trimmed up my front bumper caps.

I have a new tailpipe and electric cooling fan on order, so that will be next on the list.


Kinked cooler lines

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160529_145259_zpsklko9de5.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160529_145259_zpsklko9de5.jpg.html)



All better.... Hopefully.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160530_181158_zpsajdtzaan.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160530_181158_zpsajdtzaan.jpg.html)



New tow points installed

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160530_181144_zpsbw4jc4zi.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160530_181144_zpsbw4jc4zi.jpg.html)



And bumper caps trimmed

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160530_181225_zpsp2vdqrg2.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160530_181225_zpsp2vdqrg2.jpg.html)



I also secured my cargo basket and cleaned up my engine bay a little.

These ought to do the trick

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160530_092627_zpsrtdbjway.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160530_092627_zpsrtdbjway.jpg.html)


And believe it or not, this is way cleaner than it was, lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160530_093721_zpseddzhtu4.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160530_093721_zpseddzhtu4.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well i finally got it back on the road last night, and had the balls to drive it into work this morning. I guess on the way home ill see if the new (non collapsed and kinked) cooler lines make any sort of difference...

Oh and my new electric fan should be here tomorrow, so ill probably toss that in this weekend.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160601_195542_zpso0asmr7d.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160601_195542_zpso0asmr7d.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160601_195510_zpso2f63hbk.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160601_195510_zpso2f63hbk.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

How'd the drive home go?

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Copied from my other post.

So on my way home, I ran without the AC on. My temp didn't go over 200, and I didn't have fluid blow everywhere.

I did crawl under it when I got home..... I'm hoping this is just residual. I'll have to clean it up again and see what happens. It seemed to be confined to the crossmember and the upper part of the transfer case. The front by the Bell housing was pretty dry, so that's good.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160602_184302_zpskziosb9w.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160602_184302_zpskziosb9w.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160602_184433_zpsdurr8h2n.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160602_184433_zpsdurr8h2n.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160602_184444_zpsns74rgk8.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160602_184444_zpsns74rgk8.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160602_184236_zpsilku1pwp.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160602_184236_zpsilku1pwp.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I also need to replace my temp sensor.it bobled around at 0 for a bit, and then sat around 150 for a while. After I got home and shut it off, I turned it back on and it came up to about 200.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160602_183617_zps5rbzfq98.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160602_183617_zps5rbzfq98.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160602_183830_zps8i3hpg7x.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160602_183830_zps8i3hpg7x.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I finally replaced my electric cooling fan on saturday. I took it for a beat run, and everything seemed to work as it should, and it didnt overheat or anything. I just need to get my new coolant temp sensor in now, and i will hopefully be ready for the crawl next month.

Id be lying if i said i wasnt nervous about how shes going to do...... Performance wise, and running condition wise. Im just concerned im going to go through the trouble of hauling it there, along with my family and the camper, just to have it last an hour lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160604_123301_zpsbdpvvlfz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160604_123301_zpsbdpvvlfz.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

We all run that risk, as well as some with brand new rigs.

[Pinkyman]

We all run that risk, as well as some with brand new rigs.

Im just kind of afraid to drive it still, since the blowing smoke incident...... I need to get some miles on it before i bring it up there, but it didnt seem to do so well when its hot out.

I at least need to get my sensor replaced, or use my bluetooth OBDII tool to keep an eye on my temps.

[4.3LXJ]

Yes, some seat time is always good. I usually end up making a major mod the night before a long trip :D

[Pinkyman]

I dont trust mine enough to drive it 3.5 hours each way with my family in it, and hauling a camper lol.

It will be going up on my car hauler, and that way i know it will make it home, even if/when i break it lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160529_183653_zpscyifr0lr.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160529_183653_zpscyifr0lr.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well i fixed a couple of wires that got burned by my exhaust manifold, and now my temp gauge sits at a steady 170*F or so. I drove it all the way to and from work yesterday without a single issue, with the AC blasted ice cold the whole time. I think im getting close to getting this thing sorted (knock on wood) lol.

Thanks to Mr. Xj-Jake, ill be getting new window switches (so momma can put her window down at the crawl next month), exhaust, a front driveshaft, and some other misc bits.


I have 35 days until the Crawl for the Cure. And a short list of things to accomplish before then.

-Fix my hanging exhaust
-install frame bolt for front tow points
-install new window switches


Im hoping to get it done this weekend, since after this weekend, im out of town every weekend until the end of July.

[Pinkyman]

Well thanks to a local forum member, I scored a used exhaust, and a good front driveshaft yesterday for $20!

Now I need to get the old exhaust (and rattling cat) cut off, and get some hangers and clams for the new stuff, and I should be in good shape. I also have everything to install my hack n tap, but that will have to happen later down the road, in a week or two.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160612_141038_zpscc7nqle0.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160612_141038_zpscc7nqle0.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160612_145930_zpsbpqs7vff.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160612_145930_zpsbpqs7vff.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well i got the new (used) exhaust hung, and i figured out my power window/lock issue.

I took all my window switches apart and re-soldered the connections, and then i found a bad ground behind the kick panel. I got that all repaired, and now i have all 4 power windows from the driver switch, and individually, and my power locks and remote keyless entry works!


It looks way better without the exhaust dragging ass all over the place:

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160616_073441_zpsn9fny8jc.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160616_073441_zpsn9fny8jc.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160614_210751_zps2tedw0yi.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160614_210751_zps2tedw0yi.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160615_201019_zpsm2dx7i2c.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160615_201019_zpsm2dx7i2c.jpg.html)









So now i have a month until the Crawl, and my to-do list keeps getting shorter.

All i have left is:
-Install frame bracket bolts for the front tow points
-Bend my front brake lines to get a little more reach (and hope they dont snap)
-Hard wire my CB to get rid of the static and feedback



*Thats assuming i drive it for the next week or so without any other surprises lol

[Pinkyman]

I picked up some 33x12.5s on (I think) American Racing Baja wheels tonight, complete with matching MTRs and a matching spare wheel and tire. All for the dirty cheap price of trading him an adjustable track bar (I won't mention that I got the track bar for free....).

I can't wait to get these cleaned up and put on next weekend!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160617_213355_zpsm7yzircr.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160617_213355_zpsm7yzircr.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160617_213803_zpshlumwzre.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160617_213803_zpshlumwzre.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160617_213410_zpsmcwwea8o.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160617_213410_zpsmcwwea8o.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Those older mtr's are getting up in age so check them for rot. ;)

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Well after seeing all the big jeeps in colorado over the last week, I got ambitious when I got home....

I can't exactly turn, but it looks freaking awesome lol. I guess it's time to break out the cutting wheel although I really wanted to keep my flares :(

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160625_205807_zpsjacfl8xz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160625_205807_zpsjacfl8xz.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160625_205753_zpsoq4llh6a.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160625_205753_zpsoq4llh6a.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160625_205721_zpsezoysqs7.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160625_205721_zpsezoysqs7.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Lol, that is where they get ya! Just remember it's cool to have big tires but soooo much more costly. Does look good though! :D

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Looks like no more fender flares for this guy......

Now I just need to get the hack n tap installed so I can get rid of these nasty vibrations.

My wife wanted me to keep the bumper caps, so I just trimmed them too. I think it turned out ok.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160626_131424_zps5xaesnl4.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160626_131424_zps5xaesnl4.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160626_131304_zpstooexyvc.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160626_131304_zpstooexyvc.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160626_131239_zps79ldegx8.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160626_131239_zps79ldegx8.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

If you stuff those rear tires you will want to trim there too. Otherwise, looks good

[Pinkyman]

I'm planning on trimming the rears as well, I just didn't have time today lol

[Pinkyman]

Quoted for reference....... That escalated quickly, lol



Hey looking good Ryan! Most importantly, and I think everyone wants to know, what are your future plans for it?!?!




In the near future, my plans are:
Paint and clear the white panel/grille etc...
Repair the AC
Undercoat the tube rockers
Clean underneath and find whats leaking oil and trans fluid
Check the front end and brakes and make sure nothing is about to fall off
Change all of the fluids
Possibly new exhaust

I would like to freshen up the suspension with new shocks and springs, but with a little man due in 2 weeks, that may not happen for a while.


So im still trying to figure out what lift to go with. I just want a couple of inches without breaking the bank.

I was looking at the Fat Bobs 2" rear shackle and 2" front spacer lift for like $85. The only issue i have is that i think my rear leafs are going soft (almost flat from what i can see), and i currently have about a 1/2" reverse rake. I dont want to have to replace the springs AND get a lift, especially on a $200 Jeep.


The only other issue i see is...........

If i go more than 2", im going to need new shocks, along with whatever else i find while im in there lol. Then i go from spending $100 on a shackle lift (and replacing shocks in the spring), to spending $200-$300 on a giant lift, buying new shocks, and then needing new tires because id be too tall for my current shoes lol. Next think i know ill be $1000 into it.







I need to cut and fold the rear quarters, and then it may be time for another photo shoot in the back yard.



I thought it was fun to see where its been in the last 10 months....

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/2016-06-27_13.22.24_zpsixyd7v2a.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/2016-06-27_13.22.24_zpsixyd7v2a.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/2016-06-27_14.10.10_zpsdnxfzoov.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/2016-06-27_14.10.10_zpsdnxfzoov.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

You have changed that thing almost constantly. [emoji14] But well worth the work.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

I miss my fender flares.......... And my cut job looks like shit lol. I need to get some sort of edging on there asap, or i need to re-cut it an inch or so up and make it look better.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160629_075920_zpstjzpfx3x.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160629_075920_zpstjzpfx3x.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I cut my front fenders today, and put some of the u shaped door trim on. I must say, it looks more complete now.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160630_110524_zpsbmvd4dns.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160630_110524_zpsbmvd4dns.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Washed it, waxed it, installed my rugged Ridge tow points, cut my rear fenders, and put edging over the cuts on all 4 corners.

It's amazing what a difference a couple coats of wax makes on almost 20 year old paint!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_153812_zpsarlgbbft.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_153812_zpsarlgbbft.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_160505_zpsv1osioui.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_160505_zpsv1osioui.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_160727_zpsrzgrbt66.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_160727_zpsrzgrbt66.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_161832_zpsjxz0i0ox.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_161832_zpsjxz0i0ox.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_160750_zpsse9zwex3.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160630_160750_zpsse9zwex3.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I guess I can change the name of the Jeep to T-rex......

Going in this week! Hopefully this will help my rough ride...

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/adjlca2_zpskg5f3zyk.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/adjlca2_zpskg5f3zyk.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well im picking up my new control arms and some Bilstein 5100 shocks tomorrow. Hopefully that will make it ride better than the stock arms and entry level rough country shocks..... Lol

[MattybPDX]

Well im picking up my new control arms and some Bilstein 5100 shocks tomorrow. Hopefully that will make it ride better than the stock arms and entry level rough country shocks..... Lol
I just threw on the rough country n20's. Even if they are entry level they are sooo much better than my 22 year old stocks.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

I just threw on the rough country n20's. Even if they are entry level they are sooo much better than my 22 year old stocks.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

My rough country ones arent the N20s...... They are the standard white body shock, with red rough country stickers on them lol. And i got them used, so i have no idea how old they are.

[MattybPDX]

I didn't even they made those. The n20's come with the rough country stickers bit you have to put them on yourself.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

I got one of my new short arms installed tonight, the 2nd one has that dang bolt stuck in the sleeve, so I'll have to cut it out tomorrow. I also got some bilstein 5125s. I can't wait to get this all in and take it for a test drive. Hopefully it rides better than my white body rough country shocks and stock control arms....

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_200843_zpsqh84wjov.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_200843_zpsqh84wjov.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_201009_zpsnlb9jinz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_201009_zpsnlb9jinz.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_205301_zpsxbuvlm67.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_205301_zpsxbuvlm67.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_205347_zpsox7kagjd.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160706_205347_zpsox7kagjd.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well I got my other short arm in tonight, and got my bilsteins installed. Man, what a difference! It has a little wobble at 55, but wow, it's smooth!

And as I expected, my rough country shocks were smoked. I pulled them out, and the rod fell straight down into the shock, with no rebound whatsoever. And I ended up having to cut out my control arm bolt.

Now to recharge the AC again, and I should be good to go! (hopefully).


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160707_212452_zpspgstn0py.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160707_212452_zpspgstn0py.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160707_212412_zpsj4iqqgts.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160707_212412_zpsj4iqqgts.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160707_203336_zpsgjawy7u6.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160707_203336_zpsgjawy7u6.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well, to keep this thread updated, we went out to the Crawl for the Cure a couple of weeks ago, and had a great time! I got my new stainless extended brake lines in, and manages not to break anything lol.

Ive now pressure washed it 3 times, and i still cant get rid of the red Iron Range mud that worked its way into every single orifice :banghead:

Some pics from the crawl just to keep it in this thread.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_073002_zpsij9mujxw.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_073002_zpsij9mujxw.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0018-1_zpsaetxkq53.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0018-1_zpsaetxkq53.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_131626_zpsvqnrprur.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_131626_zpsvqnrprur.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0026_zps8upzogde.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0026_zps8upzogde.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0028_zpshgw0uugv.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0028_zpshgw0uugv.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0032_zpscfxdogz5.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0032_zpscfxdogz5.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_165141_zps7q3iueeb.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_165141_zps7q3iueeb.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_172930_zpsxtbjaz4p.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_172930_zpsxtbjaz4p.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_173433_zpsmihk8rbc.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_173433_zpsmihk8rbc.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/IMG_0539_zpsjave4lny.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/IMG_0539_zpsjave4lny.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_173744_zps4jnoe1k3.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_173744_zps4jnoe1k3.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_183919_zpsegpixh1k.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_183919_zpsegpixh1k.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_205644_zpstsk7mzs4.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160715_205644_zpstsk7mzs4.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_094109_zpsrn98huaf.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_094109_zpsrn98huaf.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_173335_zpsu3rilcm1.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_173335_zpsu3rilcm1.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_191344_zpsur56eibt.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_191344_zpsur56eibt.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_191856_zps4s4m54dy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_191856_zps4s4m54dy.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_195359_zpsngoffe6u.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160716_195359_zpsngoffe6u.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0045_zpsk2fs11na.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0045_zpsk2fs11na.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0075_zpsyclamjgy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0075_zpsyclamjgy.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0126_zpsbtxwsri6.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0126_zpsbtxwsri6.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0164_zpshkpxo9tm.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DSC_0164_zpshkpxo9tm.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

My next step, other than pressure washing it once a day for the next few weeks, is going to be possibly cutting and folding the rear fenders, and either welding some reinforcement on the frame where it is rotted, or getting frame stiffeners and welding them in.

I also need to add some r134 refrigerant with some UV dye, so i can track down my AC leak and finally repair that. Im tired of adding refrigerant every few weeks :(

Oh and my exhaust seems to have sprung a leak... So i may be replacing that coming up soon as well.




And it kind of makes me sad, that no matter how many times i wash it, it will probably never be that clean again lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/PicsArt_07-17-12.58.24_zps4yrukd3o.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/PicsArt_07-17-12.58.24_zps4yrukd3o.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I got my new (to me) quick disconnects today. I traded them for 200 rounds of .22..... Not too bad of a deal.

Now i need to get home and get my stud for the old links out, and get some new hardware and clips for these, and ill be in business.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160726_102647_zpsgs4bzmp9.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160726_102647_zpsgs4bzmp9.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

I got my new (to me) quick disconnects today. I traded them for 200 rounds of .22..... Not too bad of a deal.

Now i need to get home and get my stud for the old links out, and get some new hardware and clips for these, and ill be in business.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160726_102647_zpsgs4bzmp9.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160726_102647_zpsgs4bzmp9.jpg.html)
Jks quicker disconnects. I found a great deal on a used set a while back. The best you can get. Soooo much easier than my old rubicon express ones to disconnect and reconnect. Jks wants a arm and leg to ship any replacement parts though. My set was missing a rubber spacer that cost about a buck and was maybe a 1-1.5" around by about .5" thick... $15 to ship it! :rolleyes: Still need it but I'll figure something else out! Wouldn't trade them though. :D

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Jks quicker disconnects. I found a great deal on a used set a while back. The best you can get. Soooo much easier than my old rubicon express ones to disconnect and reconnect. Jks wants a arm and leg to ship any replacement parts though. My set was missing a rubber spacer that cost about a buck and was maybe a 1-1.5" around by about .5" thick... $15 to ship it! :rolleyes: Still need it but I'll figure something else out! Wouldn't trade them though. :D

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

Thanks! I had no idea what brand these were, but they looked like the JKS. I need a few parts, but mostly just 10mm bolts and nuts and lockwashers, and those i can get locally for super cheap.

[XJ Wheeler]

Thanks! I had no idea what brand these were, but they looked like the JKS. I need a few parts, but mostly just 10mm bolts and nuts and lockwashers, and those i can get locally for super cheap.
Anytime! Yeah, most of it can be had easily elsewhere but things sadly like the bottom pin and that spacer I need are more specific.

You'll love them though! Super easy to deal with. New they're $175 a set!

Here's the pdf instructions also.
http://4x4media.info/instructions/jks/JKS2001.pdf

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Anytime! Yeah, most of it can be had easily elsewhere but things sadly like the bottom pin and that spacer I need are more specific.

You'll love them though! Super easy to deal with. New they're $175 a set!

Here's the pdf instructions also.
http://4x4media.info/instructions/jks/JKS2001.pdf

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

Thanks again! That pdf will be a big help! The one thing I'm worried about is that I need the pin clip deals. I will probably stop at harbor freight or tractor supply tomorrow and a couple other places if need be, and try to find some cotter pins or something that will work.

I'm hoping to have them in, and to diagnose my AC leak this weekend.

[XJ Wheeler]

Thanks again! That pdf will be a big help! The one thing I'm worried about is that I need the pin clip deals. I will probably stop at harbor freight or tractor supply tomorrow and a couple other places if need be, and try to find some cotter pins or something that will work.

I'm hoping to have them in, and to diagnose my AC leak this weekend.
One of mine was bent too. You can get them at the hardware store. Can't remember if it was HD or lowes but either should have them. They're known as lynch pins.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Well here goes nothing lol. It only took me an hour to get this far. I've got a ways to go, but so far it's not horrible. I got stuck at the point where I needed the AC line disconnect tool deal. I'll have to pick one up in the next day or so.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160730_155632_zpsv6eiuwqi.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160730_155632_zpsv6eiuwqi.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160730_160333_zpsgxgs8lru.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160730_160333_zpsgxgs8lru.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

ain't pulling that dash fun :sign0055:

[Pinkyman]

ain't pulling that dash fun :sign0055:

It really didn't seem too bad. It was tedious, but didn't take too long. Granted I still have a ways to go. I figure it shouldn't take too terribly long. I'll be out looking for a new evap core and heater core tomorrow or Monday.

[Pinkyman]

Ok, so I agree with everyone else. This job blows lol.

I got everything out, and found my AC leak! I also found my heater core was pretty much rusted shut, so that may explain my low heat issue.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160731_124959_zpsjehgvncp.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160731_124959_zpsjehgvncp.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160731_124852_zpsqvkjzitl.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160731_124852_zpsqvkjzitl.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160731_123728_zpsmbyqavw5.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160731_123728_zpsmbyqavw5.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160731_124904_zpsxrfz7lrf.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160731_124904_zpsxrfz7lrf.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Yeah, it happens. Good that you can fix both and get the good HVAC

[Pinkyman]

I just ordered my new heater core, evap core, orifice tube, and blower motor. Got it on Amazon prime and should be here Tuesday. They had good prices on R134a, 6 cans for $24, but it wasn't prime, and I'm not waiting until next week to get it lol. I'll just grab some from the auto parts store this week.

Hopefully it will be done by the weekend!

[Pinkyman]

Well it's getting there. I'm glad I'm not in a hurry lol. The dash is in place, and the AC is charged and holding. Now I just need to figure out why my air bag light is on, my voltage and oil pressure gauges don't work, and my shift indicator and 4x4 lever lights won't shut off........

Then I can button it up and get those quick disconnects in.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160803_214030_zps3myuuiai.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160803_214030_zps3myuuiai.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

It's starting to look like a Jeep again! And I'm a moron.... My ground issue with my tach not working and everything, ends up that you need the dash bolted in so that it's grounded.... Long story short, everything works as designed now lol.

A few more hours of putting it back together, and I can move on to getting my quick disconnects in.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160804_210350_zps1izce0qq.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160804_210350_zps1izce0qq.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I took a break from the dashboard to get my sway bar back in today. I got my QD's in, but there's an issue.

On both sides, if I tighten up the top nut (above the sway bar link, the link sits at an angle. It makes it so that if I pull the pin, the bottom of the link shoots off the slide that it mounts to, and I can't get it to connect again without loosening the top nut again. What am I doing wrong??

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160807_195341_zpslpvkkimf.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160807_195341_zpslpvkkimf.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160807_195359_zpshlx2rvqi.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160807_195359_zpshlx2rvqi.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Nothing really. the stocker is off set and you have a straight link. All I think you need to do is grease rubber and drive it a little to break them in. i have the same type of joint on mine. They loosen up with use

[Pinkyman]

Nothing really. the stocker is off set and you have a straight link. All I think you need to do is grease rubber and drive it a little to break them in. i have the same type of joint on mine. They loosen up with use

Thats good to know, thanks!

Mine are used, so i was thinking they are broke in already. But ill tighten them up and roll with them and see what happens, maybe mine is at a different angle or something and it needs to break in that way.

[Pinkyman]

On a brighter note, my freon is holding strong! Its been sitting since Wednesday, and has been started a few times and ran up to temp here and there. It hasnt lost any pressure yet!

I set the arrow right on the needle on Wed. I know its not the most advanced test, but its the best ive got lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160808_065431_zpscrai8kwm.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160808_065431_zpscrai8kwm.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well it's all back together and back on the road finally! The AC is working great, and I think I have almost got all of the mud from the crawl off the outside, and cleaned out the inside. Now I just need to figure out my low speed wobble.... I may need to look into new tires.

And I finally relocated my switch for my light bar. I think it will work alright there.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_102316_zpsoibyob4s.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_102316_zpsoibyob4s.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_100352_zpslo1asnol.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_100352_zpslo1asnol.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_100257_zpsjqexnkmr.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_100257_zpsjqexnkmr.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_103207_zpshpe2eeuh.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_103207_zpshpe2eeuh.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

So i havent driven my Xj in about a month. I started it up yesterday and let it run up to temp, and just to make sure my AC and everything is still working.

My CEL has been on since i got it, and since i found my scan tool, i decided to run it.... I dont know whats wrong, but it seems to be transmission related? Its still running and driving fine.

The good news is, i dont have a code for the o2 sensors anymore, so thats good at least!!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Screenshot_20160818-141921_zpstvvexfs2.png (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Screenshot_20160818-141921_zpstvvexfs2.png.html)

[4.3LXJ]

That is an improvement

[IntrepidCherokee]

Well it's all back together and back on the road finally! The AC is working great, and I think I have almost got all of the mud from the crawl off the outside, and cleaned out the inside. Now I just need to figure out my low speed wobble.... I may need to look into new tires.

And I finally relocated my switch for my light bar. I think it will work alright there.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_102316_zpsoibyob4s.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_102316_zpsoibyob4s.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_100352_zpslo1asnol.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_100352_zpslo1asnol.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_100257_zpsjqexnkmr.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_100257_zpsjqexnkmr.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160813_103207_zpshpe2eeuh.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160813_103207_zpshpe2eeuh.jpg.html)



Where do you have your amp placed for your speakers or are you running them straight from the head unit?


1994 Cherokee XJ
Slow but steady Build

[Pinkyman]

Where do you have your amp placed for your speakers or are you running them straight from the head unit?


1994 Cherokee XJ
Slow but steady Build

All my door speakers are aftermarket, and they are ran off my deck. My subwoofer is powered by an amp that is under my back seat, but my tow straps and stuff. There's a picture of it a ways back in this thread. Sorry I don't remember what page lol

Edit: it's on page 7

[IntrepidCherokee]

All my door speakers are aftermarket, and they are ran off my deck. My subwoofer is powered by an amp that is under my back seat, but my tow straps and stuff. There's a picture of it a ways back in this thread. Sorry I don't remember what page lol

Edit: it's on page 7



Killer! I'll be putting in mine next week with some component speakers up front. No sub yet. We'll see if I'm satisfied the way it is, which I never am ;)


1994 Cherokee XJ
Slow but steady Build

[Pinkyman]

So im thinking about picking these up for my Xj, to replace the almost 17 year old tires that i currently have on it. I have the feeling that may be part of my vibration issue. They also arent stained orange like my current 33x12.5s.

Hes going to check the date on these tonight, and if they are less than 17 years old, ill probably grab them this weekend.

They are 33x10.5x15s.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895522359_zpslf5anpcz.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895522359_zpslf5anpcz.jpeg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895562360_zpsiqhvcnwn.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895562360_zpsiqhvcnwn.jpeg.html)

[MattybPDX]

So im thinking about picking these up for my Xj, to replace the almost 17 year old tires that i currently have on it. I have the feeling that may be part of my vibration issue. They also arent stained orange like my current 33x12.5s.

Hes going to check the date on these tonight, and if they are less than 17 years old, ill probably grab them this weekend.

They are 33x10.5x15s.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895522359_zpslf5anpcz.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895522359_zpslf5anpcz.jpeg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895562360_zpsiqhvcnwn.jpeg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/received_10208830895562360_zpsiqhvcnwn.jpeg.html)
They look A LOT better than my tires which are only 6 years old.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

He said they are weather checked, so im going to wait on the DOT numbers and see. I may just end up ordering new ones.... I think i like my current wheels better anyways lol.

If i do end up getting these, i may swap the wheels and tires so i can keep my old wheels with the matching spare.

[4.3LXJ]

They haven't made that tread pattern in a while now, so watch the checking. Excellent tires though

[XJ Wheeler]

Yeah, I'd say it's been about 10 years since the km was made. Still got them on my mom's zj and we got those about 14 years ago, but it's not driven.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[jonb8]

They haven't made those for a long time but there a great tire, I've run several sets bald and wish they still made them.

[Pinkyman]

Well that guy sold them to someone that offered more than me... I guess I don't blame him.

I'm definitely chalking it up to the tires being my vibration.

I just rotated them, and replaced my bacon shaped front rotors, and the vibration/wobble moved to the seat/rear cargo area. It's weird because it does it when I'm braking, but it also does it when I let off the gas, so I don't think it's the rear drums....

Knock on wood..... But I think it's about ready for deer season!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160830_210314_zpsr3sq9y2k.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160830_210314_zpsr3sq9y2k.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160830_204813_zps08eot1ey.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160830_204813_zps08eot1ey.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I found a set of 35x12.50 KM2s on 15x10 Soft 8s for stupid cheap.............. Like i would be dumb not to buy them even if they dont fit, cheap.......

Debating......... Debating......... Debating...........


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/00Q0Q_lbgLGs4FXsd_600x450_zpsvo4zwqyo.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/00Q0Q_lbgLGs4FXsd_600x450_zpsvo4zwqyo.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Do it! Was my dream tire for a long time. Lots of tread it looks like too. Just trim a bit more. :D

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

I want to so bad, but wider wheels, and 35s, on stock gears........... I may be asking for self inflicted failure at that point lol

[abebehrmann]

DO IT! DO IT! DO IT!

Worst case scenario you have to sell them again, probably at a profit.

[Pinkyman]

DO IT! DO IT! DO IT!

Worst case scenario you have to sell them again, probably at a profit.

I hate you guys.............. But, i love you guys.............

I just replied to the seller. Woof. But youre right, if I cant make them fit, i can sell them. At least the tires are 10 years newer than the ones i currently have on lol

[XJ Wheeler]

Now you're on track! [emoji14]

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Well I took the ol girl for a 30 mile trip tonight, with the AC ice cold the whole time. When I got home, I saw it was leaking water, no big deal, but a half hour later it was still leaking..... Coming from up by the shroud. This is my first venture with working AC, but is it normal for it to get that much condensation built up?

I'm sure it was water, as I pooled it up in my hand to make sure.

Also, it really rides nice since I rotated the tires and replaced the rotors. I'm happy with where it's at.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160901_195805_zpsypctqjwj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160901_195805_zpsypctqjwj.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Yes, the cold coil pulls water out of the air

[bluedragon436]

Yeah I was able to get rid of the vibrations I was having by replacing the rotors... which for me sucked cause I did the rotors and pads when I did the lift install... But had caliper failure, so that caused them to warp... But now I have all new brakes front and rear... only thing I got left to fix is the parking brake adjuster, then it'll all be new and working properly... I would say pick up the 35's either way, especially if you plan to have the ability for them to fit, you'll already have the expensive portion of the purchase there waiting to be installed... Have been looking on CL lately for a set of 33x12.5 or even 35's, as I'll need larger tires to fill in the gap that'll be left once I finally get the cutout steel flares I'm looking at.

[Pinkyman]

So that guy emailed me back on the 35s....... He asked if i could pick them up this weekend. Unfortunately my wife is going back to school for her doctorate, so my fun money that i had stashed went to books :(

Im thinking of starting a Go Fund Me account.... Now accepting donations to go 35s hahahaha

[MattybPDX]

So that guy emailed me back on the 35s....... He asked if i could pick them up this weekend. Unfortunately my wife is going back to school for her doctorate, so my fun money that i had stashed went to books :(

Im thinking of starting a Go Fund Me account.... Now accepting donations to go 35s hahahaha
I've seen a much worse gifundmes!

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

I finally drove it to work today for the first time in a couple of months. It seems to be running and driving pretty well. I did notice that my RR brake is sticking, so i may have to take that apart and make sure i didnt lose an axle seal or anything....

Oh, and my speedometer is off by a liiiiitle bit at 70mph lol.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Screenshot_20160909-070516_zpsj8voja6u.png (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Screenshot_20160909-070516_zpsj8voja6u.png.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160909_075227_zpsbqrm4t9e.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160909_075227_zpsbqrm4t9e.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160909_075217_zpsoki88loj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160909_075217_zpsoki88loj.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Quoted for posterity from 1 year ago today when the Jeep became a possibility :)


Jeeeeeeep
Inbox


Emily <[email protected]>
Attachments9/12/15

to me:
Hey! How ya doin? It's been a million years!!! I hope the new job is treating you well! Are you almost a daddy yet??!!

So here's the thing. I don't know if you were serious about wanting the jeep, but we're about to buy another car, and if you want it, you can have it for $200 (I paid $500). The right front headlight is busted, it's got 251,000 miles on it, and there's a crack in the windshield. Plus it's super old and god knows what else is wrong with it. But it runs, and is fun to drive!

I took some pics of it for you! Lemme know what you think!

4 Attachments

[Pinkyman]

Well i ended up swapping a different sub box in this morning. The one i built is super small, and sounds like poo. It sounds 1000 times better in the bigger box, but i hate how much room it takes up.

This will work for a week or so, but i really need to get started on building a legit box to go in the cubby in the right rear. Something that maybe has a ledge on it with like twice the air space. Gotta have good sounding tunes, and its got to be loud enough to go over all the noise the Xj makes hahaha

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160915_074624_zpssdagt7de.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160915_074624_zpssdagt7de.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I decided to do a tune up today... Needless to say, the plugs I took out were at almost .090!! Wowza, so I replaced them with some champion coppers, gapped at .035, started it up and all went well, and it ran smooth as butter......

I then went to clean the IAC valve, and I ended up breaking it :( Now it won't idle, and won't start unless I give it gas. Even then once it starts, it dies. Ugh, I guess s I'll be picking up a new iac tomorrow.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160918_093216_zps9krhpx5i.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160918_093216_zps9krhpx5i.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160918_093159_zpsniu9eoj6.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160918_093159_zpsniu9eoj6.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20160918_104352_zpsjlymtofh.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20160918_104352_zpsjlymtofh.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well, I disconnected my battery and held the 2 cable ends together for 30 seconds, and now she starts and runs like a champ! I guess a good tune up and cleaning was a good 1 year anniversary gift for the ol girl :D

[WillCherokee]

You bought a new IAC and it runs like a champ?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

You bought a new IAC and it runs like a champ?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

Nope, I didn't get a new one. It was working fine before I cleaned it, and after all the research I did today, I figured I would try disconnecting the battery and seeing if that did the trick before I dropped $80 on a new one. And it worked!

[WillCherokee]

Nope, I didn't get a new one. It was working fine before I cleaned it, and after all the research I did today, I figured I would try disconnecting the battery and seeing if that did the trick before I dropped $80 on a new one. And it worked!
Oh ok. My problem must be my TPS then.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

Well i think im picking these up this weekend. 33x15.5x15 Duratracs. They have a DOT of 4213, so they are 13 years newer than my current tires. They have 12.7mm (about 14/32nds from my math), and they guy wants $500 for all 5. Im just debating if i need the 5th since i already have a full size spare. Might be nice to have a matching one though.

I just need something that will get me through the MN winters, and deal with the ice on the road, since i lack ABS, but i also want something that will get me through the trails. The Duratracs seem like a nice compromise.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/01111_5NvWtGdWC5F_600x450_zpsfucnivoq.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/01111_5NvWtGdWC5F_600x450_zpsfucnivoq.jpg.html)



Tread with a quarter:
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/IMG_66641_2_zpsoptdke2q.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/IMG_66641_2_zpsoptdke2q.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Looks like a good deal. I searched for a deal like that for months and finally had to buy new. Checked them good though. I looked at some used 33 duratracs and found a sidewall puncture. Seems to be common with them.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

I've heard about the weak sidewalls on these too. It makes me feel better that he had them on a stock Tj, and he just had them dismounted today. So I should be good as far as punctures and all.

[XJ Wheeler]

I've heard about the weak sidewalls on these too. It makes me feel better that he had them on a stock Tj, and he just had them dismounted today. So I should be good as far as punctures and all.
Good to hear. Always best if they've been driving on them, instead of setting.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

I just picked up my new shoes!! Man i cant wait to get these on, hopefully its a night and day difference.

The DOT is 4213, and they are a 4PLY, Load Range C.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132604_zpszhilrc6x.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132604_zpszhilrc6x.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132710_zpssloab4nv.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132710_zpssloab4nv.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132700_zpsmryqgk2v.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132700_zpsmryqgk2v.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132626_zpsq972xp2w.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20160926_132626_zpsq972xp2w.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I got my new duratracs on today, and WOW! I never thought I could enjoy driving the Jeep this much! It's smooth as silk, and no more super loud howling down the road. Man it's incredible what a new set of tires will do for ride comfort, it's a night and day difference!! I replaced all the lugnuts with 1 piece chrome ones also. No more fighting 18 and 19mm due to those dang cap nuts.

And no more orange tires!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161004_100623_zpsroayp2ud.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161004_100623_zpsroayp2ud.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161004_101745_zpsd9490htd.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161004_101745_zpsd9490htd.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161004_103425_zpsnlpthoqj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161004_103425_zpsnlpthoqj.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I also fixed my temperature control knob. I must have ran the cable in the wrong spot when I did the heater and evap core, so I couldn't turn the knob to full hot or full cold. I re-routed the cable, and now I have a fully functional temperature control. Boom!

[MattybPDX]

I got my new duratracs on today, and WOW! I never thought I could enjoy driving the Jeep this much! It's smooth as silk, and no more super loud howling down the road. Man it's incredible what a new set of tires will do for ride comfort, it's a night and day difference!! I replaced all the lugnuts with 1 piece chrome ones also. No more fighting 18 and 19mm due to those dang cap nuts.

And no more orange tires!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161004_100623_zpsroayp2ud.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161004_100623_zpsroayp2ud.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161004_101745_zpsd9490htd.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161004_101745_zpsd9490htd.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161004_103425_zpsnlpthoqj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161004_103425_zpsnlpthoqj.jpg.html)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161005/0141da30d3481d540aedf272662df2cd.jpg
I think I may need some new tires soon.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

I got my Xj all washed and waxed, and we went to the Jeep show for Eppilepsy. They had some nice rigs there, along with the guys from Iron Rock and Dirt bound. Momma and little man and I had a great time!

I found a deal on a bumper that I couldn't pass up.... The guys from dirt bound said I could have this DIY bumper that was already tacked together for a whopping $200! We decided it was too good to pass up, so tomorrow and during the week, I'll be finishing up the welds, and bending a stinger for it.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161007_214200_zpsnbj4i93m.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161007_214200_zpsnbj4i93m.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/PicsArt_10-08-08.06.35_zpsabhxrqlj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/PicsArt_10-08-08.06.35_zpsabhxrqlj.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161008_154040_zps0tdjhwai.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161008_154040_zps0tdjhwai.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161008_141528_zpse6gkxcot.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161008_141528_zpse6gkxcot.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161008_172142_zpsiwpn2dcf.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161008_172142_zpsiwpn2dcf.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I started on my new bumper today. I came to the conclusion that I suck at welding, but I'm good with a grinder lol. I got it all welded up, and got the welds ground down. Now I just have to figure out what bedliner I'm going to use.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161009_110020_zpslw74vacj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161009_110020_zpslw74vacj.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161009_123611_zpswoukh1hy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161009_123611_zpswoukh1hy.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161009_101541_zpshbubtnec.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161009_101541_zpshbubtnec.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161009_120523_zpsiptq3ldh.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161009_120523_zpsiptq3ldh.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Something I thought worked out well is the POR 15 frame paint. You can brush it on and it comes out nice

[Pinkyman]

Well thanks to the help of Brent (Choogala) we got my stinger bent up yesterday. I still need to mess with the angles, but im pretty happy with how it turned out!

Now I just need to trim it up and get the angle i want, and get it welded on. I also need to drill and tap holes for the light bar mounts, and drill a couple of holes so i can run the wires through it.

*This is just mocked up. I will be moving the light bar further back on the stinger.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161016_193814_zpsklnw7ij7.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161016_193814_zpsklnw7ij7.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161016_194032_zpsc7pwdkuw.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161016_194032_zpsc7pwdkuw.jpg.html)

[choogala]

o boy that looks nice!!!

[Pinkyman]

I just got word from the guys at work. They are going to polyurea coat my bumper for me on November 4th. I guess that gives me a couple of weeks to get it all welded and put together.

This is what they are coating it with, only in black.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAsoTOxwAGI

[4.3LXJ]

Hmmmm That looks promising. Looks much better than bed liner

[Pinkyman]

Hmmmm That looks promising. Looks much better than bed liner

Im thinking so. It gets sprayed out of a $20k machine... Its a 2 part system that dries fully in less than 1 minute. Needless to say, they wont let me take it home and do my whole Jeep in it hahaha.

Heres another fun one. It gets good at about 4:00. The best part is where the guy literally wipes off the sledgehammer marks at 6:10.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVtgmm0cnoI

[abebehrmann]

Something I thought worked out well is the POR 15 frame paint. You can brush it on and it comes out nice

Thanks for mentioning this Steve! I've got a pint of that in the garage that I forgot about and I was just thinking my front bumper is looking a bit worse for the wear after a few years of use and abuse.

[4.3LXJ]

Just got a quart myself Abe

[Pinkyman]

I got a few more pictures from the crawl from a friend of mine...

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477483469242_zpsd68pfcxu.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477483469242_zpsd68pfcxu.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477485350491_zps80kv51rz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477485350491_zps80kv51rz.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477487264936_zpsgtyfz8vz.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477487264936_zpsgtyfz8vz.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477483489821_zpslyjsuhgl.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/FB_IMG_1477483489821_zpslyjsuhgl.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Im also going to get going on my bumper this weekend. I need to drill and tap some holes for the light bar mount, and make some holes to run the wires, then weld on the stinger.

Then hopefully a week from Friday it will be getting coated!

[Pinkyman]

Well i started working on my fenders last night. I only got 1 done, and i taped the rear one in place. I also still have some trimming to do, but man, im really glad they are going back on, 1, to help with rain and snow flying everywhere, and 2, to cover up the rust on the rear lol. All together it raised the front almost an inch and a half, so hopefully that eliminates any rubbing. The rear i cant move much higher, but im ok with that.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161026_203733_zps77eicgn9.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161026_203733_zps77eicgn9.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20161026_204322_zps8qvq7eo0.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161026_204322_zps8qvq7eo0.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Mobile%20Uploads/20161026_204848_zpstwgdwuvb.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20161026_204848_zpstwgdwuvb.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I finally got my fender flares just about finished, just needs a little more trimming. Now hopefully i dont rip them off next weekend lol.

Next will be the bumper!! Im welding the stinger on and finishing it up on Sunday, then Friday it will be coated. Hopefully i can get it installed Friday night, and still be up early enough for deer opener on Saturday, then wheeling in the afternoon!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161027_212406_zpsgdvdqisy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161027_212406_zpsgdvdqisy.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161027_212440_zpsny3cqwzm.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161027_212440_zpsny3cqwzm.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161027_212509_zpsd2okvswj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161027_212509_zpsd2okvswj.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well I finally got my bumper done. I like how it turned out, although I wish the stinger were a little higher up, so I could put the light bar on the bottom. The way it sits now, the light bar would interfere with the fairlead.... I may drill and tap a couple more holes, but the light would need to sit way far forward if the stinger.....

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161030_140134_zps03l65log.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161030_140134_zps03l65log.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161030_133858_zpsiz0cqjff.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161030_133858_zpsiz0cqjff.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161030_140142_zpszvb1z0up.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161030_140142_zpszvb1z0up.jpg.html)

[MattybPDX]

I like how out looks. As helpful as stingers are they must be a total pain if you have to do any motor work.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

Well i relocated my light bar last night, and modified my bracket. This looks SO much better IMO, and i shouldnt have any clearance issues with the fairlead.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161030_211326_zpsbtqyhrrl.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161030_211326_zpsbtqyhrrl.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161030_211342_zpsv35zu5cx.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161030_211342_zpsv35zu5cx.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161030_211158_zpswweri8yw.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161030_211158_zpswweri8yw.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Looks better

[Pinkyman]

I just brought my bumper back for coating. They got the base coat on the top side done already. He is going to let it sit for a bit, and im going to go observe him spraying the rest of it. Im hoping to get a video or at least some pictures!

[Pinkyman]

Getting closer....................... 2 or 3 more coats to go.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B57HBU38rAM

[Pinkyman]

It dries black, but i took this just after the 1st coat was applied.

http://i.imgur.com/VtSGmsl.jpg (http://imgur.com/VtSGmsl)

[Pinkyman]

Finally done!! Woopwoop! I cant wait to get home and get this thing mounted :D :D :D

http://i.imgur.com/PS579vE.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/5MbxJ03.jpg

[Pinkyman]

Well I got my bumper installed over the last couple of days. One of my steering box bolts broke, and my steering box spacer was not about 10 pieces. Brent from iron rock was nice enough to meet me there so I could get a new one, then I was able to get the steering box and frame tie in installed.

As of now it's all finished up, and I couldn't be happier with how it looks! Now I just need to figure out what to do with my license plate.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161106_080757_zpsqnkquazu.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161106_080757_zpsqnkquazu.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161106_080739_zpsxmgxecae.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161106_080739_zpsxmgxecae.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161105_173348_zpstsvnacez.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161105_173348_zpstsvnacez.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

That does look nice :thumbsup:

[XJ Wheeler]

That came out real sweet! Nice texture on that coating too. Making me want to get to building a bumper... if I EVER get done with this rocker project!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

So i had everything tied up, and i drove it into work this morning...... Getting off the highway, my brake pedal went down lower than normal, and my (Brake) light on my dash came on.

I got to work and looked under my jeep, and saw this on the drivers rear..

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161107_072816_zpstjxmjoc5.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161107_072816_zpstjxmjoc5.jpg.html)


Now i get to try to find a way to either replace the rusted line with a pre-flared line in the parking lot, or just bend it up and fill it with fluid and hope i make it home.. Ugh

[4.3LXJ]

Yuk, I don't envy you dealing with that rust.

[Pinkyman]

Well it cost me $21 and 45 minutes, but its good enough for a repair in a parking lot in North Minneapolis on my lunch break lol.

The pedal is soft because i couldnt bleed it, but it doesnt leak...... As far as i know lol. Ill have the wife help me bleed it when i get home. Its way too low for my liking.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161107_131411_zpsocmfcw2r.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161107_131411_zpsocmfcw2r.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well I got my brakes bled with the help of my wife tonight. Ass is well with the world again, and my Xj is all ready for deer hunting this weekend!

[Pinkyman]

I took the Xj deer hunting over the weekend. Put about 150 miles on it. And i drove it out to the pasture to see if there were any good spots for a stand next year. I was pretty impressed with the duratracs, and only had to use my 4WD for like 20 feet.

I also found out that im getting about 12MPG......... Lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/IMG_20161115_093242_zpsjkciktfs.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/IMG_20161115_093242_zpsjkciktfs.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well I got my brakes bled with the help of my wife tonight. All is well with the world again, and my Xj is all ready for deer hunting this weekend!

[Pinkyman]

I replaced my cap and rotor and plug wires yesterday...... I would say they were LONG overdue.. Im not even sure how it was running lol. It starts and runs and idles smooth as it ever has now :D

And maybe that will help my 12MPG that ive been getting lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Screenshot_20161121-075633_zpstbrbt457.png (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Screenshot_20161121-075633_zpstbrbt457.png.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Screenshot_20161121-075604_zpsqdrk3zrh.png (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Screenshot_20161121-075604_zpsqdrk3zrh.png.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well i think from looking at it, my transmission is overfull. I was on my way into work this morning, and once again, it started spewing transmission fluid onto the exhaust and letting off a smoke screen down the highway.... Needless to say, ill be draining the fluid and adding new fluid and getting it to the correct level when i get home, and maybe thats why im getting codes for the TC lockup, and my TC definitely isnt locking up. That and my fluid doesnt smell the greatest.

[4.3LXJ]

Are you checking the level when the tranny is hot or cold? You are supposed to check it hot. It expands and will go up the stick about half a quart. Also, and this will be a pain in the ass, your vent on the top might be plugged up

[Pinkyman]

I will have to check that at some point. When i checked the fluid this morning, it was hot, and over full. Who knows what happened between the previous owner, and the fluid ive lost and added every time this happens and the fluid blows out.

The guys at work whipped this up for me, so im going to go drain out a quart and see where im at. At least that way i can get a base line and get it to the correct level. Then ill probably drain and fill it this weekend.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161122_091950_zpsj8jsu6ci.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161122_091950_zpsj8jsu6ci.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Well i drained out just over a quart of transmission fluid. Im assuming that and what i added the other day, and what burned off, i was about 1.5 quarts over filled. I drove it for about 20 minutes, and checked the fluid level again, and its just over the center between the "ok" and "max" line, so at least now i know i have the right amount of fluid in it.

These are the old codes, and now i only have the P0700. My fluid was nasty brown though, so i will have to drain and fill that this weekend for sure.

I got it up to 60/65 on the highway on lunch, and i still have no TC lockup.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/PicsArt_11-22-12.28.17_zpsbvnv6mzl.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/PicsArt_11-22-12.28.17_zpsbvnv6mzl.jpg.html)

[TeXJ]

Is your speedo off?

[Pinkyman]

Is your speedo off?

Yes....... By quite a bit. Upper right is GPS, the rest is realtime from the PCM.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Screenshot_20160909-070516_zpsj8voja6u.png (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Screenshot_20160909-070516_zpsj8voja6u.png.html)

[TeXJ]

get the correct speedo gear, and your issue will be solved. exact same issue i had. I had a mechanic friend tell me to do it and it fixed my issue. Im no mechanic but the relationship between your speed and your perceived speed are different causing the computer controlled tranny to not work properly.

[Pinkyman]

get the correct speedo gear, and your issue will be solved. exact same issue i had. I had a mechanic friend tell me to do it and it fixed my issue. Im no mechanic but the relationship between your speed and your perceived speed are different causing the computer controlled tranny to not work properly.

I see the theory, and it sounds like that could definitely be the issue.

Did you have a CEL due to this?

[TeXJ]

yes, same exact thing.

They are like ~$10 and I thought it couldn't hurt plus my speedo would finally be correct. After that the CELs went away and never came back. I think I got mine from amazon.

[Pinkyman]

Well i drove it home last night, and drove it to work this morning, and (knock on wood) didnt blow any transmission fluid everywhere. Booyah!!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161123_073227_zps3ghi9fno.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161123_073227_zps3ghi9fno.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Next on my list..........

Frame stiffeners (Iron Rocks black Friday sale) for $110
New exhaust
New turn signal switch (both rears flash on with the left signal)
Trans cooler
Transmission drain and fill

[Pinkyman]

Well I did some work on the Xj tonight.....

I noticed my exhaust was getting louder, so I crawled under it, nd my exhaust clamp had wiggled loose! I tightened her up, and now she's quiet as a mouse!

I also chased down a clunk that I've been looking for for 9 months or so... I got almost one full turn out of my passenger side front leaf spring bolt, now the clunk is gone!

This thing is almost scary how quiet everything is now!

I also checked my trans fluid again.... Still overfull. So I drained out almost another quart, and NOW she's in the "OK" range.

The fluid is dirty as shit, but the matter at hand is that it was over 2 quarts over full!

The pop can is for reference..

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161123_210102_zpsa42083fq.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161123_210102_zpsa42083fq.jpg.html)



Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

[XJ Wheeler]

Man, that trans is gonna be happy now!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[TeXJ]

"pop" facepalm

:D

[Pinkyman]

"pop" facepalm

:D

Hey now lol. Its soda on some days, and pop on other days... It must have been an off day :D

[xj-jake]

Soda, pop, cola, tonic, it's all the same just depends on what part of the country you're in!

[Pinkyman]

I took the xj to the tree farm with the family again yesterday. It was really muddy with all the rain weve got, and all the melting snow, but the Jeep handled it well. There was a guy that got his big Buick SUV stuck in the mud, so i pulled right up to him and grabbed my tow strap. Then my brother in law walked over and said, "We can just push him out." So 3 guys and 10 minutes of pushing later, he was out, and i still didnt get to use my Jeep to extract them :(

What a difference a year makes.... They grow up so fast :D

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161127_101915_zps4fokn7ry.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161127_101915_zps4fokn7ry.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/PicsArt_11-27-03.47.33_zpsgmfxyzea.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/PicsArt_11-27-03.47.33_zpsgmfxyzea.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/PicsArt_11-28-08.37.48_zpssju4frie.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/PicsArt_11-28-08.37.48_zpssju4frie.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

Also, the little man got to drive the Xj for the first time. I just wanted to be able to say that the first vehicle he drove was his dads Xj :D

*This was filmed on a closed course on private land in Mexico..... So no need to call CPS hahaha

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_V78LfqRCU

[TeXJ]

HAHA

[denverd1]

Thats awesome!

are you still on 30s?? look like 35s almost, maybe because your fenders are still in tact, mine had a run-in with a grinder and cut off wheel.

The boy and Jeep's come a long way in a year!

[Pinkyman]

Thats awesome!

are you still on 30s?? look like 35s almost, maybe because your fenders are still in tact, mine had a run-in with a grinder and cut off wheel.

The boy and Jeep's come a long way in a year!

Thanks! They are 33x12.50 Goodyear Duratracs. I just got them mounted a few months ago, and i relocated my stock fender flares, so that i dont rip them off :thumbsup:

[Pinkyman]

Booyah! Merry Christmas to me :D

Frame stiffeners will be going on some time in January. Along with patching in a spot where my unibody is super crusty......

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/502743373_zpsgox7v5qy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/502743373_zpsgox7v5qy.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I finally got around to replacing my turn signal switch, so no more both rears flashing with my left turn signal. It also stays on until I'm all the way through my turn now. I love it!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161216_115220_zpscvq7d2gx.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161216_115220_zpscvq7d2gx.jpg.html)

[bluedragon436]

Looks good Ryan!! Came along nicely in the years time... I had to change my turn signal switch the day after going through inspection, because the night I went through inspection my turn signals went crazy, and my brights had already gone crazy prior to going through inspection... (good thing for me I thought to run through a light check before I headed to the inspection, so I knew to just slightly pull back and hold the brights to keep them on for inspection... lol).. unfortunately I had to change the switch out when it was uber cold and raining out...

[Pinkyman]

I went out and started the ol girl today. -14F and she still fired up!

https://youtu.be/LqYGoOFqS6o

[TeXJ]

did ya fix the squeaky noise in the steering?

[Pinkyman]

did ya fix the squeaky noise in the steering?

I pulled the covers off the column when i replaced the turn signal switch, and I used some PB blaster white lithium grease on all the surfaces that i could get to. I also lubed up the rubber grommet where the steering goes through the firewall. So far so good, but time will tell.

[TeXJ]

interesting. thanks for the update!

[Pinkyman]

Best Christmas gift ever! Booyah! My Xj is on its way to not having a rotted away unibody :D

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161225_122852_zpswf0evdaf.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161225_122852_zpswf0evdaf.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I also got a new Jeep hauler. My father in law upgraded trucks, so we bought his old one for the dirty cheap lol. Its an 03 that he bought brand new in 04, and has all the maintenance records from new, and he even put new tires on it right before hunting season this year!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/Screenshot_20161216-123352_zpsz6hwcs1c.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/Screenshot_20161216-123352_zpsz6hwcs1c.jpg.html)



This one is his retirement gift to himself....... Id be lying if i said i wasnt a little jealous. Its a 2015 3/4 ton, with an aftermarket Magnusen supercharger. We took it for a drive on Christmas Eve, and man that thing is sweet.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161224_090305_zpsjlkxdszn.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161224_090305_zpsjlkxdszn.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I also got a 3-ring binder full of everything that has been done to the truck since the day he bought it new. From wipers, to brakes and tires, to the Gibson exhaust, and alternator and new exhaust manifolds, literally everything.

I also found this in the glove box. Kind of cool its been sitting there for so long, and its still in 1 piece lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161227_204532_zpsipjg0ewg.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161227_204532_zpsipjg0ewg.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

So, was it really built Ford tough?

[Pinkyman]

So, was it really built Ford tough?

Seems like it so far lol. Its been babied for so long that i guess im not sure. But i know it pulls the jeep and the skidloader, so........ Maybe? :D

[TeXJ]

did he buy the truck with the magnusun(sp) already installed?

That would be a sweet truck. Is it a 6.0?

[Pinkyman]

did he buy the truck with the magnusun(sp) already installed?

That would be a sweet truck. Is it a 6.0?

His new truck is the 6.0. He bought it from his boss, and he got a sweet deal as it was his retirement gift from him. The magnuson supercharger was an aftermarket add on that the original owner had installed.

[XJ Wheeler]

Nice, on both. I've thought fondly of the looks on the 97-04 f150 crew! And I can attest to the 6.0l chevys. Had two so far, first (07 3500) was traded at 316k and this one ('10 3500) has 278k and going strong. Did replace the trans in both though, one needed it but the other was a dealer mistake. But the engines has performed great. The later vvt engines with the 6 speed are much better on acceleration. I can't imagine how much nicer a 2500 with the supercharger is!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[TeXJ]

aww sweet. I was thinking he had bought it brand new.

[Pinkyman]

Not too much new lately. Im going to get started on my frame stiffeners after vacation next week.

I did take it for a spin last night after i plowed the driveway. I kind of miss driving that thing..... I should probably take it out more lol

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170110_190219_zpsp5wo0lqj.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170110_190219_zpsp5wo0lqj.jpg.html)

[XJ Wheeler]

Sure sounds like "vacation" could be used for jeep mods! :D

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Sure sounds like "vacation" could be used for jeep mods! :D

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

This vacation is in Florida, and time for no pants and flip flops :D

I'll work on the Jeep again once I'm home next week. It will be nice to get going on it.

[XJ Wheeler]

This vacation is in Florida, and time for no pants and flip flops :D

I'll work on the Jeep again once I'm home next week. It will be nice to get going on it.
Sounds like you seek what we have! Whole forecast is in 70s or upper 60s for highs. On the flip side though, I want cold and snow!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[Pinkyman]

Sounds like you seek what we have! Whole forecast is in 70s or upper 60s for highs. On the flip side though, I want cold and snow!

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

If you want snow and cold, you're more than welcome to come visit :D

I'm liking the weather in Florida currently, and I'm not looking forward to the cold at home.

[Pinkyman]

Well Brent from Iron Rock is coming up on Saturday. Were going to cut, grind and box in my unibody where it rusted through, then we will be welding in my frame stiffeners. Were also going to cut and patch the rear where there is a small rust hole forming. Should be a good time, and ill try to get some progress pictures :thumbsup:

[Pinkyman]

Well Saturday Brent and I spent some time with the grinder and welder. We were able to cut out the rust, and then we welded in a piece of 10 gauge in where the rust was. After that we got the rails stripped down, and got the unibody stiffeners welded in. A quick coat of undercoating and it was all finished up!

The only issue i has was one of the weld nuts for the crossmember stripped out, so i tapped it to a 7/16s, and used a 7/16s bolt, and it was good as new :thumbsup:


Heres the before and after:

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/PicsArt_01-21-11.02.47_zpsf3ieplez.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/PicsArt_01-21-11.02.47_zpsf3ieplez.jpg.html)




http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170121_090011_zpssy0nen5g.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170121_090011_zpssy0nen5g.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170121_095152_zpsnsnzqyh0.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170121_095152_zpsnsnzqyh0.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170121_103952_zpsfmdg6lo8.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170121_103952_zpsfmdg6lo8.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170121_115722_zpsxrnxwrng.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170121_115722_zpsxrnxwrng.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170121_141049_zpshwgnrgbg.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170121_141049_zpshwgnrgbg.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170121_141129_zpsqmlyl59j.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170121_141129_zpsqmlyl59j.jpg.html)

[TeXJ]

what kind of welder and welding were you using?

[Pinkyman]

what kind of welder and welding were you using?

Its a Miller something or another. This is the only picture that i have of it. It took some getting used to as my father in law welds only with CO2. Thats just the way hes always done it.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161009_101541_zpshbubtnec.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161009_101541_zpshbubtnec.jpg.html)

[TeXJ]

aww cool. I have Hobart 140 that I just use flux with for now. It's a 115v welder.

[Pinkyman]

aww cool. I have Hobart 140 that I just use flux with for now. It's a 115v welder.

I was looking into something like that, but i figure with my father in law having this beast like 15 minutes away, i should spend my money elsewhere lol

[TeXJ]

Yeah i would probably do the same. I just wanted to learn how to weld and my friends that weld are a little bit away from me or really busy.

[bluedragon436]

Yeah i would probably do the same. I just wanted to learn how to weld and my friends that weld are a little bit away from me or really busy.

Yeah that is pretty much where I am too... I know a few folks that have big welders, or quite a few different welders... just live too far away... so have been looking to find decent "cheapish" welder to learn myself on...

[TeXJ]

Yeah that is pretty much where I am too... I know a few folks that have big welders, or quite a few different welders... just live too far away... so have been looking to find decent "cheapish" welder to learn myself on...
I really like my HH 140.

[4.3LXJ]

Its a Miller something or another. This is the only picture that i have of it. It took some getting used to as my father in law welds only with CO2. Thats just the way hes always done it.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20161009_101541_zpshbubtnec.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20161009_101541_zpshbubtnec.jpg.html)

I use Argon/CO2 mix. It is what they recommend at the welding supply

[bluedragon436]

I really like my HH 140.

I think that was one of the ones I had looked at before... Doesn't seem like a bad deal... Going to contact the local tech school and see what kind of equipment they use.. that way I can try and use the same stuff... or something similar... as I'm sure theirs will probably be a much nicer setup than I can afford... Trying to find out when their next classes will be starting, as they are currently already in a program until April. Unfortunately they don't offer the same class that they offer to the high school, to the adult education folks... cause it is a fairly decent fabrication/welding course... I'd pay decent money for that, if it's as good as it seems that it is...

[TeXJ]

So wish the local community college had a welding/fab class here.

[4.3LXJ]

So wish the local community college had a welding/fab class here.

I learned a lot in the classes I took at night

[bluedragon436]

So wish the local community college had a welding/fab class here.

Yeah, you and me both... they only offer the welding unfortunately.. wish they would offer the welding/fab class to us college folks like they do the HS folks.. especially seeing as how we pay more than the kids do to be there..


I learned a lot in the classes I took at night

Yeah that is what I'm hoping to do is to get into a welding class, if I can't find a welding/fab class... and learn as much as I possibly can...

[abebehrmann]

So wish the local community college had a welding/fab class here.

Dallas County Community College offers a few welding classes/certification courses that I've been looking at, I think it's something like $59/credit hour. I thought that Collin College would too, but it looks like they may have gotten rid of them in the last few years.

[TeXJ]

Dallas County Community College offers a few welding classes/certification courses that I've been looking at, I think it's something like $59/credit hour. I thought that Collin College would too, but it looks like they may have gotten rid of them in the last few years.

I've been checking with Collin College for about 10+ years and they've never had a welding class. Unless they had it for like a year and then took it off again.

[MattybPDX]

If my schedule permits next term I'm thinking of picking up a welding class.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

[Pinkyman]

Back on the topic of my Xj...... Lol. I may be purchasing an aux transmission cooler and installing it this weekend. Im really tired of having to worry about my trans overheating and blowing fluid everywhere again. Hopefully that will help, or at least i wont have to worry as much.

[MattybPDX]

Back on the topic of my Xj...... Lol. I may be purchasing an aux transmission cooler and installing it this weekend. Im really tired of having to worry about my trans overheating and blowing fluid everywhere again. Hopefully that will help, or at least i wont have to worry as much.
They're a pretty cheap insurance for your trans and easy to put in.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

[TeXJ]

I need to add a tranny cooler.

What parts are you going to be using and which write up? Sensor in the return line or the outgoing line from the tranny?

[Pinkyman]

I need to add a tranny cooler.

What parts are you going to be using and which write up? Sensor in the return line or the outgoing line from the tranny?

I was just going to install the cooler.... I havent really thought about installing a trans temp gauge yet. Ill wait and see if it gives me any problems after the cooler is installed.

[Pinkyman]

I did pick up a hitch rack for the Xj so i can haul my bike around. Ill have to get the adapter for the receiver, but i think it will work out well.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170130_063351_zpstmtrwjgv.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170130_063351_zpstmtrwjgv.jpg.html)


I also got some rock lights from Brent. They are just the small 9w eagle eye dual LEDs, but i think with the 12 that i got, it should light it up nicely. I hooked a few up last night, and they are surprisingly bright! Im going to see if i can 3D print some brackets for them so that i dont have to drill a hole for each one.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170130_063503_zpstn1nkfez.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170130_063503_zpstn1nkfez.jpg.html)

[Pinkyman]

I installed my auxiliary trans cooler last night. Hopefully this will alleviate the issue of the trans overheating and blowing fluid out of the vent. It hasnt happened since i drained out the 3 quarts of fluid that it was overfilled, but im still somewhat leary. Im going to take it for a run this weekend and see how it goes.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170209_200907_zps0umevsem.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170209_200907_zps0umevsem.jpg.html)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/Rocketryan1/20170209_204329_zpssrkqvljy.jpg (http://s38.photobucket.com/user/Rocketryan1/media/20170209_204329_zpssrkqvljy.jpg.html)