Project: "Rigor Mortis"

[Pookapotamus]

Hello all,



I thought I would start a thread detailing my new project. First a little back ground. I had my first XJ given to me, a 92 limited and started building it up and wheeling it, well it was pretty much rusted right out so I bought a 95 named Ginger, swapped all the leather and entire interior over and continued wheeling. well after a few trips following some of my friends with much bigger rigs Ginger was getting really worn out. So I started buying parts for a new build on a 2 door that I bought from Jenssen. Well this quickly got out of hand :rolleye0012:so here are the details:





body: 92 2 door laredo, I am a bigger guy @ 6'2" so I wanted a 2 door as it is much easier to get into than the 4 door. Here is Mortis on the day I brought him home parked beside Ginger.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/8e048b5dbe2dce28f04274ffd8e91fb0.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/381a40bdb78214318c72bb76c651c759.jpg



I happened to get a great deal on a 4.6 short block and I already had ordered a full Borla 2" stainless steel exhaust system, so now all I have to do is order a Hesco aluminum head and I have a great power plant for my build!



I did not like the OBD1 wiring in Mortis so I bought a 96 to steal the wiring harness from, also this will be a better system to run the stroker off of. also did not like the stock gas tank as after wheeling for 2 years it has been crushed and I could only fill it 3/4 full, so I ordered a Genright enduring tank.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/a244600dacccbb5de5ff9a4ff3ab3319.jpg



Now I have been drooling over a clayton lift kit ever since I got an XJ so naturally I had to have one! I ended up ordering the pro series 6.5" 3-link front with 4-link rear coil conversion. It was just so sexy.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/2229a2175b92b9ac11f1038780485089.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/119300a6d62c87b2bb3ab4e2986ce983.jpg

For boots I have chosen 33"x13.5x15" toyo open countries, I know lots of people that run them and they wear extreamly well. Heavy though! 1 toyo without the rim weighs more than 1 of my 31" dick cepek mud countries with the rim! I have decided to wrap the toyo's around a set of walker evens bead locks and they should be arriving before X-mas.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/e614ea6a18c88afd9a414422aad68e31.jpg

yes that is a pic of the tires in my living room! where else would you keep them?:rolleyes:

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170808/83fdd8dfa636e0e406c2ccc4a37fcbc4.jpg





lets see what else is going to be happening with mortis? oh ya! just ordered slightly over a grand in led lighting that will be attached via a custom light bar, have the old front winch bumper and rear winch bumper from ginger. I have to finish building the rear swing out, install all the power windows and locks, headlight loom upgrade, stereo install and a ton of other goodies that are going into mortis.



I will keep updating this post as I continue to finish. Please feel free to ask me questions about my build, or ask me to post up any pics that you would like to see.

[Pookapotamus]

So first thing was to strip Ginger and the 96 jeep for the wiring harness.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG00010-20111018-1741.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG00021-20111026-1723.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG00020-20111026-1718.jpg
not much left when i was done with the carcases.

Then Got to work stripping Mortis and making plans to cut out all the cancer that was present.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0688.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0687.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0712.jpg
And finally ready to start working on Mortis.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0699.jpg

[Pookapotamus]

The First parts to go back on were the frame stiffenerz, and Genright sliders.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0718.jpg

Then on to installing the clayton lift kit. Firstly the trackbar mount.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0717.jpg
Then rear spring buckets.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0719.jpg
pass rear shock relocation bracket.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0724.jpg
Front crossmember
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0723.jpg
Rear crossmember
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0721.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0722.jpg
and belly skid.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0726.jpg

[Pookapotamus]

So that is where i am at with my build at the moment.

here are a couple other goodies for you, the carpet was quite dirty and i decided to pick the french fry off and pressure wash the carpets.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0693.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0696.jpg

The floor pans were in very good condition considering the year of jeep and that it came from BC.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0685.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0689.jpg

[Pookapotamus]

Here are a couple of pics of Ginger and the bumpers that will be going on to Mortis.
this was when I added the front hoop.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/WheelingApril2211002.jpg
And when I added the front Riddler covers
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/WheelingApril2211006.jpg
This was Phase 1 of my rear bumper build.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0617.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0618Clean.jpg

[dagr8tim]

Looks good, can't wait to see the progress.

[Firemanray]

Yep, this is definately a "build"!! ('scribed):popcorn:

[4.3LXJ]

OOOOOOOO, a four link rear. ON my list of things to do. Thanks for those pics. Just gave me some ideas.

[cantab27]

nice ...will be watching ......

[bluedragon436]

That is a nice XJ collection you have!! The new XJ is taking shape nicely... can't wait to see it as it progresses!!

[BlueXJ]

MORE MORE I like what you have done. I always wanted a 2 door with a stick. I will be following your build.

[Pookapotamus]

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/Rollbar1.png
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/Rollbar2.png
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0732.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0733.jpg

Ok, got busy in the garage this weekend, designed a roll cage for Mortis, headed over to a friends place and bent up all the tube, and got it all installed. :)

[4.3LXJ]

Very nice work

[dagr8tim]

Looks great

[JENSSEN]

Any updates man??

I will be over to see the progress for myself soon!

[olds-cool]

Really like this build. Keep up the good work.

[Pookapotamus]

sorry no updates untill the new year, fickin holidays are getting in the way :bang:

[Pookapotamus]

finally got some more done!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0739.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0740.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0741.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0742.jpg

i hate body work!

[bluedragon436]

Looks like some good work you got going there..

[4.3LXJ]

It needs shoes Pook, shoes I say. :D

It will look good when done. Gonna stay green?

[Pookapotamus]

It needs shoes Pook, shoes I say. :D

It will look good when done. Gonna stay green?

Shoes have been sitting in my living room for two months, waiting on the walker evens beal locks i ordered to show up! hope to have them on by valentines day.

Not going to stay green, I have the color picked out and waiting to be sprayed on, you will find out what color when I post pics! :D

[bluedragon436]

NO GREEN = INSTANT BAN!!! LOL.. JK.. Look forward to the surprise!!

[4.3LXJ]

Shoes have been sitting in my living room for two months, waiting on the walker evens beal locks i ordered to show up! hope to have them on by valentines day.

Not going to stay green, I have the color picked out and waiting to be sprayed on, you will find out what color when I post pics! :D


going against the flow?:headbag:

That is OK, I will to when the time comes to shoot it.

[Pookapotamus]

yup I swim against the flow!

I just did not want to have the standard green or red XJ, like everybody else, although I am kind of regretting the decision to change color. I hate body work, and this is slowing me down soo much! just want to start bolting parts back on and actually see some progress, and reclaim my living room! :D


Soon, so very soon I can start getting all those shiny new Parts into something that resembles a jeep!

[4.3LXJ]

Dana, I know what you mean. Body work is not my strong point either, and neither is painting. But like you, I intend to go against the flow and be somewhat unique in color choice. Anyone can do green or red.

[panama red]

I am on my 2nd green 2 door. When I bought a white one I painted it od green. Now that I have a green one I want to paint it flat tan.

anyways great build man. cant wait to see it "built".

[Pookapotamus]

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0003.jpg
new goodies came today! H4 headlight conversions, light dot"s for the rear, and 3 10" led light bars that are crazy bright!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0005.jpghttp://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0004.jpg

also got all the metal work done on the body and managed to get the interior bedlined! as soon as i get it painted i can start assembling!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0009.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0012.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

I'm anxious to see what happens with the lights. There are becoming more and more options for LED now.

[bluedragon436]

Those are some nice goodies you got there.. I like that cage you got going there.. Would love to learn to fab and weld and build my own one day, that way I can hopefully keep my DD able to get me to work on Monday!!

[T3k]

looking really good i cant wait so start tearing mine down this is giving me great ideas keep it up i cant wait to see the final results

[Pookapotamus]

Got to work building custom light bars this weekend, really love these lights!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0746.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0748.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0750.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

Oh man, those look nice

[T3k]

dude those are wicked nice. are you going to bolt the light bar to the roof or weld it in? either way i like the hell out of that nice fab work

[Pookapotamus]

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0752.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0753.jpg

Finally got mortis primed! just need to sand and then i can paint!

[Pookapotamus]

And had my next project delivered today too! A Canadian M101 Trailer!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/M101/DSCN0754.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

Looks just like the US M416, probably made in the same factory

[JENSSEN]

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0752.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0753.jpg

Finally got mortis primed! just need to sand and then i can paint!

Holy hell man! That looks frigging awesome! I cannot believe its the same jeep!!

I am gone again next week to help my family out but the following week I AM coming over with a 6pk of tasty beverages to survey your successes!

Well done Sir!!!

[Pookapotamus]

You are welcome to stop by any time! with any luck there will be colour on it before the weekend!

:D

[XJ Wheeler]

Nice build! Those thing is gonna be so SWEET when you finish it.

And yeah, i want those lights.

[JENSSEN]

You are welcome to stop by any time! with any luck there will be colour on it before the weekend!

:D


I won't be back from vancouver until Sunday, have some family things that I had to attend to; did you pick a colour yet?

[vwfoolwhy]

Looking Good!

[bluedragon436]

The XJ is looking real good.. Can't wait to see it continue to progress!!

[Pookapotamus]

I won't be back from vancouver until Sunday, have some family things that I had to attend to; did you pick a colour yet?

colour is a secret until I paint it, :rolleye0012:

Thanks every one for your support!

My "Urge to wheel meter" is climbing into the red zone! :banana:

[Mudderoy]

Fun post to follow, thanks! :popcorn:

[Pookapotamus]

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0758.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0759.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0761.jpg

ok so the color is 2003 Mazda Sunburst Yellow! I will be shooting clear coat tomorrow.

[XJ Wheeler]

Oooow, nice and shiny. That's definitely not a mellow yellow, looks killer!:jumping0041:

[JENSSEN]

Nice build! Those thing is gonna be so SWEET when you finish it.

And yeah, i want those lights.


http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0758.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0759.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0761.jpg

ok so the color is 2003 Mazda Sunburst Yellow! I will be shooting clear coat tomorrow.

What does the green Jeep society think of this?


I love it

[4.3LXJ]

What does the green Jeep society think of this?


I love it

Green Jeeps hide in the woods. No hiding here :mock:

[Brasscatz]

Love it!!! I want a yellow xj now!

[Pookapotamus]

well i got lots done today!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0771.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0772.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0773.jpg
Feels good to have the jeep on its front axle again, now if only my bead locks would come in!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0774.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0775.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0776.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0777.jpg
even got the rear light bar and reverse lights on.

[4.3LXJ]

Very nice. You will like the three link. They steer so much better in the bumps than a y link

[LizardRunner]

Looking good !

[Pookapotamus]

thanks guys, bead locks should be here next week!

[bluedragon436]

The XJ is looking good.. I had a friend here in DE that had a Yellow XJ from the factory.. Actually a good looking color on the XJ's... I love the front arms..

[JENSSEN]

I hope to snap some spy pics Sunday afternoon!

[Pookapotamus]

Sorry everyone, been a little lax lately in updating pics, just been too freaking excited with how Mortis is coming together.

So here is an update:
Got the SYE installed and then bolted the tranny and tcase in.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0779.jpg
My Beadlocks finally showed up, and even though one was missing all the bolts they look sexy!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0781.jpg
Have been installing the 96 wiring harness and getting the interior back in, seats will be in before the weekend!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0786.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0788.jpg
Got the roof lights installed and wired, wow are these bright!!!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0787.jpg
and got the tires on!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0789.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0785.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0784.jpg

[Brasscatz]

VERY nice!! I like those wheels! It's looking real sharp!

[JENSSEN]

Holy crap! Pictures don't do it justice!!

http://i651.photobucket.com/albums/uu235/RACE4THECURE/2bda8756.jpg

Picked up my spare motor and tcase from Pook today!

http://i651.photobucket.com/albums/uu235/RACE4THECURE/f8c38ed1.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

unbelievable, an almost brand new XJ

[JENSSEN]

Poo has done an awesome job on this jeep! I must of said 50 times I can't believe this is my old green XJ!

It will be like a new XJ! Just better, alot of things they didn't do from factory he has done. It's magazine quality!

I told pook today he should submit the build to be printed!!

[gary63]

very very nice! like the wheels keep up the good work can't wait to see it done

[Apexer]

Wow. One of my first random clicks on this site. Friggin sweet.

[Pookapotamus]

Thanks all! It's been a big project, but a ton of fun! Working on getting the stroker ready to go in, and need to finish up the rest of the body work. Here is a a pick of the mocked up dash.

[4.3LXJ]

Lots of gauges. Ready for take off?

[Pookapotamus]

Lots of gauges. Ready for take off?

I did not like the factory gauge cluster for oil pressure and coolant temp so I figured I would add a couple aftermarket ones to keep a close eye on the stroker.

The gauge pod in the middle is from a path finder, with altimeter and attitude gauges, A bit cheesy but so am I. :D

The screen below the centre vent is for the rear view camera, I am 6' 2" so when I look to the right all i see is rear view mirror, this also gives me full visibility with the spare hanging in the rear window. this also allows me to mound an extra camera on the trailer and still have full visibility.

Yes I like gadgets!

[4.3LXJ]

You will have to let us know how the camera works. NAPA had one they were selling reasonably, but they did not hold up to vibration off road. I have the spare in the rear window too. I am thinking that when I go up in tire size, I will flatten it on top. Looks cheesy, but I like seeing out that window.

[Pookapotamus]

The camera works great! had it on the last Jeep, did not like it in the rear window, got too much glare from the tinted window. this time the camera will be mounted in the centre of the spare tire, this should cut all the glare and let its night vision work properly. will post up once I get it on the road with some pics.

[4.3LXJ]

Will you have a problem with the lens getting dirty. The back of my Jeep is always covered in dust and road grime.

[Pookapotamus]

yes i will probably have to clean the lens regularly, should not be too bad as it will be recessed into the centre of the spare tire. will just have to see.

[Pookapotamus]

Well its been a while, haven't worked on Mortis for a couple of months, but yesterday I had Mortis moved to his newly built home!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0178.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0194.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0205.jpg
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0210.jpg

Now i just have to finish building the ceiling in the new garage, get some good lighting up there and the work can begin again! so excited!:D

[4.3LXJ]

Doing that around the Jeep. What a pain. My shop didn't get finished because I was forced to move into it before the sheetrock was done. Maybe I just need to build another LOL

[dagr8tim]

What kind of paint did you use?

[Brasscatz]

Not paint.... he had Big Bird come over and rub all over it :D

Looking great buddy!

[Pookapotamus]

Not paint.... he had Big Bird come over and rub all over it :D

Looking great buddy!

do you have any idea how much it costs to have a muppet come over and fondle your jeep!:rolleye0012:

i think i used dupont, cant really remember, was expensive, but looks great!

[Mudderoy]

do you have any idea how much it costs to have a muppet come over and fondle your jeep!:rolleye0012:

i think i used dupont, cant really remember, was expensive, but looks great!

Free if you take pictures of them doing it.

[Pookapotamus]

Free if you take pictures of them doing it.

eeewwww!

[Brasscatz]

do you have any idea how much it costs to have a muppet come over and fondle your jeep!:rolleye0012:

i think i used dupont, cant really remember, was expensive, but looks great!

The good thing about muppets is that you can pay them in Monopoly money or cookies! I really do love the color though. Yellow is on my list of possible color choices for my next Jeep.

[4.3LXJ]

If he paid in cookies, wouldn't he end up with cookie monster blue?

[Pookapotamus]

Well Finally an update:

Finished the interior of the garage last night,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0248.jpg

Still a few things to finish, like converting the sink in the corner into a parts washer, building an attic hatch and sound proofing the air compressor. After that the work can continue on the jeep! soo excited!

Pook

[4.3LXJ]

Oh man, too clean. It wouldn't last in my shop. Too much grinding and such.

[NW99XJ]

Well Finally an update:

Finished the interior of the garage last night,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0248.jpg

SOOOOOOOO Jealous!!!!!
Nice garage man! -Well done!

[XJ Wheeler]

Man, that looks GOOD. Better than most kitchens i've seen, actually come to think of it that looks like a kitchen. Either way, i'd be proud to have it.

[Brasscatz]

I now officially hate you in the friendliest way! NICE shop, Pook!

[Pookapotamus]

I now officially hate you in the friendliest way! NICE shop, Pook!

Holey crap Jim :timeout: At least your xj runs! At the end of November it will be 1 year since I started building Mortis. I am still looking at months before it is finished! :cry:

My urge to wheel meter has been maxed out for months!

Thanks guys, really happy the way the garage has turned out, cant wait to start ordering parts for the jeep again!

[bluedragon436]

That is a nice looking garage... Don't think the conversion on the sink will be too hard to accomplish..

[dagr8tim]

Man, that's nicer than my kitchen.

[Brasscatz]

Holey crap Jim :timeout: At least your xj runs! At the end of November it will be 1 year since I started building Mortis. I am still looking at months before it is finished! :cry:

My urge to wheel meter has been maxed out for months!

Thanks guys, really happy the way the garage has turned out, cant wait to start ordering parts for the jeep again!

Just giving you a hard time, buddy :D I'm extremely impressed with your garage, AND your build!

[4.3LXJ]

C'mon Pook, where is the fridge? I have one in the back of my Jeep. Pics to prove it.

[Pookapotamus]

@ Jim, I know you're just kidding but I am so jealous I really want to wheel! major withdrawal symptoms! Perhaps when I am done I will take a trip down to your neck of the woods, got a friend down there and would love to do some wheeling in the states.

@Steve, fridge is coming, just don't know where to put it yet. Working on getting internet and cable out to the garage at the moment.

Pook

[4.3LXJ]

Don't forget the bed. Then you can sleep there when you are in trouble with her.

[Pookapotamus]

That's what the camping trailer is for!:D

[4.3LXJ]

Slept in my air conditioned shop once when the AC went out in the house

[Pookapotamus]

Been doing dome work on the rear swing out, just have to figure out the latching mechanism, then the whole back can be disassembled, finish welded, painted and can go back on the jeep!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0315.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0313.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0311.jpg

[Mudderoy]

I'm interested in seeing the tail lights once you are done.

[4.3LXJ]

Pook, that latch is always the hardest part for me. It is a challenge to get one that doesn't rattle

[Pookapotamus]

Pook, that latch is always the hardest part for me. It is a challenge to get one that doesn't rattle

Well considering I am making it lockable with the power locks, and having a status light on the dash for it, I am making it more complicated for myself!I think I have it all figured out, just need to start building. still have to figure out the rear camera as well.

Muddy, the rear tail lights are going to be led light dots.

so much to do!!!:stars:

[4.3LXJ]

And all this fun stuff takes time

[XJ Wheeler]

Lookin GOOD! And that idea of the lock on the latch working with the door locks completely astonishes me.

[Pookapotamus]

Lookin GOOD! And that idea of the lock on the latch working with the door locks completely astonishes me.

Thanks Jake, we will see if I can actually make my idea work, I will post picks as it happens.

[Pookapotamus]

Well I have been working on the rear bumper, all finish welded and painted and installed on the jeep again, my power locking idea will work and is mostly installed, have to wire up the lights and finish the swing out then the install the winch. also got the new long range tank test fitted!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0338.jpg

Found out that this tank does not really fit a 92 shell, but a little modification and it will go right in tonight! also noticed that I have to move my rear axel forward 1.5" so it can clear the tank.

the fun never ends!

Pook

[4.3LXJ]

How many gallons Pook?

[Pookapotamus]

30.5 gallons!

[4.3LXJ]

Almost the same size as mine. I like the long trip option, which has come in handy a couple of times.

[XJ Wheeler]

Is that the Gen-Right tank?

[Carves]

Well considering I am making it lockable with the power locks, and having a status light on the dash for it, I am making it more complicated for myself!I think I have it all figured out, just need to start building. still have to figure out the rear camera as well.

Muddy, the rear tail lights are going to be led light dots.

so much to do!!!:stars:


You recycling a pair of XJ door or tailgate locks ... or using aftermarket ??

[Pookapotamus]

@ Jake, yes it is a gen-right tank, and it is all installed, fit great after adding some holes in the frame to drop some bolts down, re installing the filler was a pain but finally went in.

@ Carves, neither, I have fabricated up a complete custom locking mechanism, single handle that turns two separate locks with a pin that locks the whole mechanism once its closed. hard to explain but I will post pics soon.

Pook

[XJ Wheeler]

Awesome, Pook. You are really doing this jeep up NICE. Great build, keep em coming.

[JENSSEN]

Bad ass hard to believe its humble life before,....

[bluedragon436]

The XJ is looking good... wish I had half the fab and welding skills you do... Can't wait to see some more!!

[Pookapotamus]

@ Jenssen, thanks buddy you need to come by the new place and have a look!

@ James, it only looks great from a distance, get close and not so much! But every piece you make you get a little better! ;)

Got the light dots working last night with the help of an old 4 wire to 3 wire trailer harness, Need to wire in a trailer plug then work can start on something else. :)

[NW99XJ]

30.5 gallons!
Yea i want more details on this tank too!


You recycling a pair of XJ door or tailgate locks ... or using aftermarket ??
And this whole power lockable rear tire swingout thing has me super intrigued.... can you elaborate a little on what you've done?

[Pookapotamus]

@ Josh, I don't know what else I can say about the tank, its just fricken awsome! fit like a glove in the stock location, holds lots of go juice, has a very skookum skid plate, tastes great and less filling.

As for the locking mechanism, I should have it finished soon, will post pics!

[NW99XJ]

Thanks Pook! ...I'll definitely be looking forward to those pics.
Whats that tank out of? -is that a Dakota tank? Or is that some sort of aftermarket thing? (sorry if you've already covered this)

[Pookapotamus]

its an after market genright enduro tank

http://www.genright.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=GST3003

check it out!

[Pookapotamus]

wow! Time for an update!!!!:happy:

So my last update was just after getting the tank installed, been busy on Mortis since then.

Well I have done a lot of work on the garage lately and Santa was very good to me, I got the parts washer/kitchen sink to work, installed a sandblasting cabinet, new 60 gal compressor, battery charger, bench vice, and bench grinder.

then the work could continue on Mort...


Firstly: I found a pic of how I tied the rear bumper into the roll cage for those of you who were curious.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0829_zps16910337.jpg

the whole rear bumper has been finished painted and installed complete with power locks and rear camera.

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0835_zps0201c318.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0840_zps9156fe63.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0841_zps81202956.jpg

camera mounted in the spare tire

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0839_zps37ea1417.jpg

And the view on the screen!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0838_zps14a49e57.jpg

[Pookapotamus]

then I decided it was time for brake lines, and decided to make them all up myself so that I could run them where I wanted. Ended up pulling the rear axel to make it easier on me and finished some undercoating and installed a new tranny mount while I was under there.

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0837_zps9b2e0bee.jpg

redid the pinion and seal too.

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0832_zpsb52354d0.jpg

and got the new flexible line in.

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0833_zps17c0fe6b.jpg

Then I took a look at the rear windows to see if i could do anything about the rusted out hinges, ended up fabing new ones and all went well with installing these!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0830_zpsbb13d617.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0834_zpsa0694bf2.jpg

Also got the front bumper and winch on, now i just have to relocate the solenoid box.

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0831_zps59f601e6.jpg

I know that I have missed things that I have done, I really need to get better at taking pictures! :rolleye0012: But work is progressing and i am actually looking forward to starting the last stage of body work! I will try to update more often!

[4.3LXJ]

Nice job Pook. How is it you have this spotless shop when fabbing stuff up. I always end up with a mess.

The camera is cool

[Pookapotamus]

I clean as I go, kinda anal that way! I hate having to look all over the shop for a tool!

[4.3LXJ]

I know where to find mine. If you don't see it after a long search, it is in my pocket

[Pookapotamus]

:tmi:

[Jeep31"]

Well Finally an update:

Finished the interior of the garage last night,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0248.jpg

Still a few things to finish, like converting the sink in the corner into a parts washer, building an attic hatch and sound proofing the air compressor. After that the work can continue on the jeep! soo excited!

Pook

Can´t find any words.....you have build a dream garage:D and your jeep super cool build.
The best Nicke

[Pookapotamus]

thanks nick!

[Pookapotamus]

Well once again I Haven't taken as many pics as I should. :rolleyes:
Lots has happened to Mort in the past few weeks, I took a week off at the end of march to finish up all the painting and get him mostly assembled, then my first day back to work I got laid off! so now I got tonnes of time to work on him!
So here is what I have accomplished lately:

I started with Gingers old hood,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0845_zps42816e65.jpg

Did some design work,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0846_zps8311a261.jpg

And came up with a pattern that I liked,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0847_zps95d9e0c0.jpg

Fired up the plasma and began cutting,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0848_zps3ee02d85.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0856_zpsde6071c5.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0855_zps31186823.jpg

Got everything finish sanded and ready for paint, then played dress up with Mort,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/DSCN0850_zps186a84ad.jpg

Also cleaned the hatch up and got it ready for paint,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0416_zps7bb47a41.jpg

Then played Dexter and made a kill room in the garage, and started painting,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0425_zps91fc7c2e.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0427_zps700dad4a.jpg

And finally started re assembling the finished pieces,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0435_zps7b90fbab.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0430_zpsa5efbcdc.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0428_zps2620687f.jpg

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0434_zpsa62b43ef.jpg

Even got some interior work done!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0436_zpsca7a4f18.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

Looking good there Dana. Close to done?

[Brasscatz]

Sorry to hear you got laid off... But that hood is looking sweet! I like the design you came up with

[XJ Wheeler]

Wow, bud. When i saw the more finished pics my mouth literally fell open. :eek:

[JENSSEN]

You sure that's the same Jeep I sold you???

[Pookapotamus]

@ Steve, Slowly getting closer, lots to do now that the painting is finished, lots of wiring and parts to order!

@ Jim, getting laid of was a blessing in disguise! Had an interview half an hour after i was laid off, and while i was in the interview got another call from the same company to come in for an interview for a different position! :P

@ jenssen, well some of it is the same jeep you sold me! ;)

and thanks to everyone who likes it!

[Pookapotamus]

well been getting lots done, this not having a job thing is kinda awesome, the not having a paycheck thing blows though!:P

Power windows and locks are all back in , wired and working.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0448_zpsa33d7bf3.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0448_zpsa33d7bf3.jpg.html)

my extreme triple threat fan kit from ffdynamics came in, very nice kit, but i had to go with a stock rad for now, a full aluminum one would have cost me $700 bones, and with no job i figured this was the way to go.

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0449_zps03060176.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0449_zps03060176.jpg.html)

and finished assembling the front end, made new wiring harneses for the driving lights, head lights and started rewiring the front winch.

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0451_zps44499594.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0451_zps44499594.jpg.html)

so thats pretty much what Mortis will look like when he is finally done, minus a new coat of paint on the front bumper and sliders. just have a few parts to order and he can be finished! Which include, push rods, drive shafts, winch line for front and rear, starter, injectors, radio, alarm, plugs and wires and probably a ton of stuff that I am forgetting.

[Brasscatz]

Nice work! Looks amazing! Was there a particular aluminum radiator that you were going for? American Eagle makes one you can get for about $200 U.S. I think it's the one Tony has too.

[XJ Wheeler]

I'll just keep it simple. Just plain AWESOME!

[JENSSEN]

Let me be your injector doc ;) 703's stat!!!

[Pookapotamus]

@ lil' jim, i have been looking for a full aluminum one for a while, jb power quoted me $700 for one, but this was from a guy who figured i could just swap in any old rad and fan kit, kept saying i could just trim out the front to fit. wanted me to trim out the front cross member. he said he was a Cherokee owner too but did not really seam to understand that there is very little room to modify the rad supports, and that doing so would severely compromise the front end.

so i figured with all the venting and the triple fan kit i would see how a stock rad did, and if it did not work i can source out a better option later, just want to get Mort running and do some wheeling again!

[Pookapotamus]

Let me be your injector doc ;) 703's stat!!!

Nurse Jenssen, kinda has a nice ring to it!

Nurse Jenssen! 300cc's of scotch stat!!!!





have you ordered a set of 703's? if so where from and how much?

[Pookapotamus]

Time for a little update...


Absolutely no luck finding a job yet, so lots of time to work on mort! :D

got the front winch all wired up,
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0469_zps8c1d9a4c.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0469_zps8c1d9a4c.jpg.html)

all the under hood wiring is all complete, and a set of 703 injectors installed, rebuild a starter and installed it, just need push-rods, reinstall the rest of the A/C, an o2 sim and plugs and its ready to start!
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0468_zps4e33bbab.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0468_zps4e33bbab.jpg.html)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0470_zps9192c5f2.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0470_zps9192c5f2.jpg.html)


Re-keyed the steering column to the new door locks, and finished most of the under dash wiring.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0463_zpsa10c3257.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0463_zpsa10c3257.jpg.html)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0466_zpsa3d222b7.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0466_zpsa3d222b7.jpg.html)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0467_zpsd82955a2.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0467_zpsd82955a2.jpg.html)

And re installed the trim pieces in the back.
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0465_zpsc4483c42.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0465_zpsc4483c42.jpg.html)
http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0464_zps1c325a5f.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0464_zps1c325a5f.jpg.html)

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0452_zps221ec8f5.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0452_zps221ec8f5.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

When ya start it, rev it up good so I can hear it from here :D

[Pookapotamus]

will do!!!

[Brasscatz]

Very impressive!!!

[Pookapotamus]

When ya start it, rev it up good so I can hear it from here :D

Well steve? did ya hear it???

Started Mort for the first time Saturday, rolled over once and fired right up, no leaks or anything! Does have some valve train noise, not sure if the pushrods are a little too short, or possibly too long, but still sounds really good! drive shafts should be in Friday, so i just might be able to take him for a drive on the weekend!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0624_zpsbf10731c.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0624_zpsbf10731c.jpg.html)

[4.3LXJ]

Well steve? did ya hear it???

Started Mort for the first time Saturday, rolled over once and fired right up, no leaks or anything! Does have some valve train noise, not sure if the pushrods are a little too short, or possibly too long, but still sounds really good! drive shafts should be in Friday, so i just might be able to take him for a drive on the weekend!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0624_zpsbf10731c.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0624_zpsbf10731c.jpg.html)

And I thought that was the earthquake all this time :D

[Pookapotamus]

Had another thought about the valve train noise, I have a bigger cam in it and some really good valve springs, possibly the valves are slapping???
Any thoughts??? Anyone?

[4.3LXJ]

New lifters? How is the oil pressure?

[Pookapotamus]

Yup new lifters, match the extreme 4x4 cam. Oil pressure is great! Me thinks it might just be the aggressive cam.

[4.3LXJ]

Might be. The valves have enough travel in the springs and piston tops?

[LizardRunner]

I'm in agreement with Steve, be sure you aren't hitting the piston top and that there is enough travel in the springs. If those are good then it Sounds like the lash might be off. I have built 3 V-8's with huge cams and it was normal to have to go to roller rockers, girdles and different length push rods then adjust the lash two to three times to get everything just right.

[XJ Wheeler]

Well steve? did ya hear it???

Started Mort for the first time Saturday, rolled over once and fired right up, no leaks or anything! Does have some valve train noise, not sure if the pushrods are a little too short, or possibly too long, but still sounds really good! drive shafts should be in Friday, so i just might be able to take him for a drive on the weekend!

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0624_zpsbf10731c.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0624_zpsbf10731c.jpg.html)

I'll pm you my address so you can come by and give me the keys. :D

[JENSSEN]

Chatting today with pook ,... I feel that a "race" cam may be spooking him out, recommended Dana talking to Bennie at Heaco racing engines. A jeep god he is, knows more about 4L performance than the mopar guys

If you have the chance (anyone) call him for build advice!!!!


I can't stress this enough!

[Mudderoy]

I'm trying to remember, seems Matt and I went through some discussions with Crane cam about their lifters and noise. Something like in a daily driver it might drive you nuts but if you're screaming across the desert no so much. Actually I think it was the guy at Titan Engines that was telling us about the Crane lifter noise.

[JENSSEN]

Well think with that lift and lack of seperation ,... There is a reason it revs like a mofo

[msmoorenburg]

On Tony's cam they sold him anti pump up lifters the first go around (it sounded like a old school tractor and would be quite embarrassing at a light) We did follow the break in process and found the lifters to be bad. After we pulled them and replaced with melling lifters I found this.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y299/msmoorenburg/2012-09-03_12-58-42_124_zps24cbd167.jpg (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/msmoorenburg/media/2012-09-03_12-58-42_124_zps24cbd167.jpg.html)

VERY FRONT LIFTER WAS OUT OF A STOCK 4.0 (NOTICE THE DIFFERENCE IN HEIGHT)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y299/msmoorenburg/2012-09-03_12-58-24_148_zps47794036.jpg (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/msmoorenburg/media/2012-09-03_12-58-24_148_zps47794036.jpg.html)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y299/msmoorenburg/2012-09-03_12-58-14_587_zpsa7fd0d50.jpg (http://s7.photobucket.com/user/msmoorenburg/media/2012-09-03_12-58-14_587_zpsa7fd0d50.jpg.html)

So lesson learned I will check all lifters for height from now on. These were in a sealed box so hints why I had doubt they would be bad.

Also did you use the bridge kit? (washers that adjust back lash) This by far was the biggest pain in his motor build. Oh the reason why we went back to the melling lifter was due to Titan engine, Ttating the anti pump up lifters caused too many issues with customers (the noise). He will only install them in race 4.0 motors on a request basis only.

[Pookapotamus]

finished up the under dash wiring,

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0628_zps9e6321cf.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0628_zps9e6321cf.jpg.html)

got the new drive shafts in,

http://i264.photobucket.com/albums/ii191/pookapotamus/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0630_zps8b90cca8.jpg (http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0630_zps8b90cca8.jpg.html)

remeasured all the push rods, 3 were .040 short and 5 were .020 short, got them ordered up, changing out all fluids and the belly skid can go back on tonight.

getting very excited!!! might be able to go for a drive this weekend!

[Mudderoy]

I wonder if your cam messed up some lifters. I checked with Matt and he said all my lifter shims were the same width.

[Brasscatz]

That thing is just beautiful, Pook

[4.3LXJ]

The awards for the purdiest are all going to Canada :D

[Pookapotamus]

2699

Well I have been giddier than a school girl for the last few days, been driving my jeep around! Everything's going great! First time filling him up got asked if he was for sale! Go's in Friday for his alignment. And will be hitting the trail for the first time on the 13th! Can't wait. More pics coming soon!

[4.3LXJ]

Congrats Pook. Definitely looking hungry for the trail

[Brasscatz]

I'm definitely jealous!

[XJ Wheeler]

A beast to be proud of!

[Jeeplover88]

I'll pm you my address so you can come by and give me the keys. :D

What / how did you get the vents on the hood? They look effective and aesthetically clean.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Pookapotamus]

What / how did you get the vents on the hood? They look effective and aesthetically clean.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I modeled the hood in 3d with inventor, came up with a pattern that I liked, then made a template and laid out the pattern on the hood. Fired up the plasma cutter and cut the pattern out, and used a die grinder to clean every thing up. After the hood was painted I got some expanded aluminum and glued it to the under side of the hood. So far this seems to work great and keep the engine nice and cool.

[Jeeplover88]

^^^ nice work! I use Revit and AutoCAD 12 at the office: I bet I could design some vents for mine there...hmmm

Thanks!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Pookapotamus]

Good luck, be sure to show us what you come up with.

[Pookapotamus]

Well yesterday was our show and shine, mort brought home a couple of trophies! Best off road rig and people's choice!

2988

I will upload more pics later when I get time to sit at the computer.

[4.3LXJ]

Congrats Pook. Nice flex there too

[Pookapotamus]

Thanks Steve! Here is my new desktop!

2989

[4.3LXJ]

That is a lot of flex on that rear suspension. Refresh my memory with what you are running. I am slowly gathering parts myself to link the rear

[Pookapotamus]

I am running a 6.5 Clayton rear spring conversion with the 3 link front. Handles great off and on road.

[4.3LXJ]

What is the length of the rear spring uncompressed?

[Pookapotamus]

What is the length of the rear spring uncompressed?

um.....

I will have to get back to you on that one Steve!

[4.3LXJ]

Just curious. I have some JY springs that I got cheap that measure 19" extended and easy to install, so I am kind of looking at what I will end up with

[Pookapotamus]

well its been a long time since i've been on here, still have not found work. and have not got much done to mort, been driving him around fairly often now and he is great in the snow! only had him to the trails twice, been lots going on in my life and fighting the depression of not having a job. He now has 2500 kms on him now and i have been getting around 11 mpg. stroker is doing fine with longer pushrods in it and the only issue I had was the clutch master leaking.

hopefully i will be around more often and get some fresh pics up soon.

Pook

[Brasscatz]

Thanks for the update Dana. Will be saying some prayers that you'll find work soon.

[vincer20]

Beautiful build man. Good luck finding a gig.

[Pookapotamus]

Thanks guys

Here are 2 vids of mort crossing a creek that was cut deeper due to the recent flooding here in the spring, hope they work.

http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0223_zpsc8d89168.mp4.html

http://s264.photobucket.com/user/pookapotamus/media/Rigor%20Mortis/IMG_0224_zps4a828886.mp4.html

[4.3LXJ]

Hey Pook, it has been awhile

[Pookapotamus]

Hey Pook, it has been awhile

Sure has, whats new?

[4.3LXJ]

Sure has, whats new?

As far as Jeeps go, getting ready to pull mine down for awhile for some repairs and link the rear. My son is looking for a V8 for his TJ and then the real fun begins with the sawsall

[Pookapotamus]

Mortis did not have the heater diverter under the heater box so I fabbed up a better version today. And also took 10 mins and added a 3/4" spacer to level up the back end. http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/01/22/6umy2uqe.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/01/22/abemepuj.jpg

[bluedragon436]

Would def say that is a better version of any stock item!!

[4.3LXJ]

Did you put that inside the heater box?

[Pookapotamus]

Underneath the heater box where the air comes out and on top of the transmission tunnel, there is a plastic part that does the same thing, but it's just a box, this actually directs the air.

[4.3LXJ]

Mine has always not been very good at flowing air. It needs help. I will keep this in the back of my mind for sure

[Pookapotamus]

So after driving the last few months on the overly salted roads, Mortis is having surface rust issues on his bumpers even the rear that I por-15'd. The front I understand, it was all scratched and just had some generic tremclad on it. So I am planning on pulling both bumpers to clean them up, but I am not sure how I want to coat them this time.

I have a bunch of gloss black car paint left over from when I painted a buddy's land cruiser but not sure if that's a good idea. Don't really want to bed line them as it's hard to modify or fix them when they get scratched in the future.

Won't be using por-15 ever again, it just peeled off no matter what prepping I did. And it's rusting all over the place!


Any suggestions? Will the black paint I have be durable enough???

[4.3LXJ]

I have heard that from others about POR 15. They claim prep is the key. But sounds kind of iffy even then

[NW99XJ]

Any suggestions? Will the black paint I have be durable enough???

The prep work IS the key to any coating. I know that doesnt really help now, and is just so much armchair quarterbacking, but what MAY help in your case is a good couple coats of self etching primer. This will give you a good base to lay down whatever new coat you throw on next.

[Pookapotamus]

The prep work IS the key to any coating. I know that doesnt really help now, and is just so much armchair quarterbacking, but what MAY help in your case is a good couple coats of self etching primer. This will give you a good base to lay down whatever new coat you throw on next.




Agreed, thought I got the prep right, this time I will be going with good paint, with a good primer, no easy cover coatings.

[bluedragon436]

XJ is still looking good Dana!! I think when I get around to doing another XJ build I'll be going with the cheap can of spray on bed liner, as that is what a few friends have used on their bumpers, sliders, and have been able to just spray over it again after it gets nicked up... the few times they have done that on rocks and such...

[Pookapotamus]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/10/2uvaga5e.jpg
Well it turned out pretty good. Just having a problem with the winch now

[bluedragon436]

Feel free to ship it to me.. I'll figure out the issue with the winch for ya!!

[Pookapotamus]

Lol! Somehow I missed your post blue.


So apparently I have destroyed my release bearing, only has 3000 kms on it? Can any one recommend a good brand to get, something that can take a beating? Last one was in the clutch kit from luk.

[cantab27]

what kinda winch ya running

[Pookapotamus]

Tabor 9k with M8000 gearbox on the front and a m8000 on the rear

[JENSSEN]

Lol! Somehow I missed your post blue.


So apparently I have destroyed my release bearing, only has 3000 kms on it? Can any one recommend a good brand to get, something that can take a beating? Last one was in the clutch kit from luk.

PM me

[Pookapotamus]

Well Mortis is going into my shop today to get another round of upgrades, going to pull both axles for some lower control arm upgrading, shock relocating and other little things, drop tranny for a new release bearing, cut a hole in the floor to get access to the fuel pump, serif I can fix the fuel gage issue, and fix whatever else I find while I have him apart.

[Pookapotamus]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/22/nesugetu.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

What? No bath before pulling it in the shop?

Mine is in pieces too for correction of little stuff

[Pookapotamus]

He does not deserve a bath! Eating a release bearing in 3000 kms.

[Pookapotamus]

Ok so I fixed the tabor 9k that I have on the front, but I don't think I can run synthetic on it because of the brake, when running it heats the drum a lot might be too hot for synthetic, any one run into this?

[4.3LXJ]

Drums can get hot. Warn has a different kind of line on the first wrap and some other brands I cannot remember have a sleeve on the first wrap

[Pookapotamus]

Well I could easily swap the m8000 to the front, is it worth it?

[4.3LXJ]

One thing that might be a good deal for you is to get a short length of the different material and splice it in. It is not supposed to be too hard. Just like on three strand rope with more threads. Supposedly can be done in the field in case of breakage. If I get braided line, I will learn this myself. A Warn can get hot too on hard pulls from motor heat migrating into the drum

[Pookapotamus]

The tabor gets really hot on the drum at the brake with no load at all, too hot to touch

[4.3LXJ]

Not sure what to tell you on that. You might have to go back to steel line

[Pookapotamus]

Is rather use that as an excuse to buy a new winch! Been wondering about the ratings, is an 8000lbs enough for a 5000 lbs xj?

[Pookapotamus]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/22/8yse5ada.jpg

[NW99XJ]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/22/8yse5ada.jpg
Hmmmm... something appears to be missing.... just cant quite put my finger on it...

[Pookapotamus]

I'm doing a hover conversion!

[4.3LXJ]

Is rather use that as an excuse to buy a new winch! Been wondering about the ratings, is an 8000lbs enough for a 5000 lbs xj?

Rule of thumb is double the vehicle weight

[4.3LXJ]

I'm doing a hover conversion!

Might need a fan upgrade for that one :D

[Pookapotamus]

Rule of thumb is double the vehicle weight


Double I might be able to do, I thought it was triple.

[4.3LXJ]

Double I might be able to do, I thought it was triple.

So you are doing winch comps with cantab?

Double is good enough. So 10K would be your target I think

[Pookapotamus]

So you are doing winch comps with cantab?



Double is good enough. So 10K would be your target I think


Agreed, I will start planning to switch up to a 10k.

[4.3LXJ]

A 9.5 would work too

[Pookapotamus]

A 9.5 would work too


I did a bad thing! I went to warn's website! That zeon 10s sure would look good on the front of mort! Now if I could just sell my M101 I could afford it!

[4.3LXJ]

You betcha. Nice looking winch and yellow on black is a great combo. Like indestructible Tonka Toys. :D

[Pookapotamus]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/26/ema5u2y8.jpg

Now to post this in my build thread!

Added a small truss and new LCA's

[Pookapotamus]

Pulled the tranny today to replace the release bearing, it did not seem worn out at all, changed it anyway, only thing I found wrong in there was the fork clip. http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/27/y7y9y8um.jpg

[4.3LXJ]

That could cause you some problems too

[Pookapotamus]

We will find out in a few days.

[4.3LXJ]

Lots of work for one little clip :D

[Pookapotamus]

It's fun work though, and in a way is relaxing.

[4.3LXJ]

Yes, one of my great joys in life is working on the Jeep

[Pookapotamus]

Just read through my entire build thread, thanks again all for your words of encouragement through the build and all the likes Mortis has gotten!


Steve do you still need the rear spring length measurement?

Pook

[4.3LXJ]

Not now Dana. I have found some I am going to try for the rear I got from the wrecking yard. These are progressive rate 19" in length and should be at about 12" with weight on them which I think will work out nicely. But thanks for the thoughts. If these don't work out I will bother you again :D

[Pookapotamus]

Ok the transmission is back in, front axle is back in, pulled mort out and turned him around so I can start working on the back end, then do some more mods to the interior.

[4.3LXJ]

One thing then another eh Dana. Same here. Had to pull mine out to pull the WJ in and pull the engine.

[Pookapotamus]

Yup always something to improve, I have noticed that when you build a vehicle like this from scratch it takes a lot to work all the bugs out, for instance: I improved my flex in the front end and now the front axle pumpkin can rub on the oil pan if I let it, time for bumpstops!

[4.3LXJ]

I know what you mean. The stuff I build works, but I always end up doing it again and maybe a third time before I am happy with it

[jimmixj]

Just finished viewing your build....frikkin sweeeeet! Nicely done all around!

[Pookapotamus]

Thanks a lot Jim!

[Pookapotamus]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/09/e5apuvus.jpg
Took my old screen out
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/09/y5eramu6.jpg
Found this inside of it
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/09/saquvuzy.jpg
Did a little rewiring and testing
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/09/6a7ery9y.jpg
Then reinstalled it, much more visible and no more glare from the glass that it was behind.

[Pookapotamus]

Ok so I need some help diagnosing the noise mort is making, I thought it was the release bearing but after changing it out he still make said noise.

So with the engine running, clutch in, the is a rhythmic rattle, sound like from the bell housing.
Also when reversing slowly sometimes it sounds like a lot of rattling from the tranny area, hard to pin down where from cause mort is not exactly the quietest jeep.
Also today at a stop light clutch out in Neutral, it sounded like something spinning on a shaft that was not really connected to the shaft, that kind of spinning rattling vibration of something going terribly wrong.

Me thinks maybe tranny as the one that is in mort I don't really know the history of.

What do you guys think???

[4.3LXJ]

You might be on the right track there on the tranny if it makes the noise in neutral.

[Pookapotamus]

Need the time do do more testing, block him up and get under and have a listen.

[4.3LXJ]

Yeah noises like that are hardtop find sometimes

[Pookapotamus]

Dosent somebody make a ax-15 6 speed???

[4.3LXJ]

As far as I know the 6 speed is not an AX15. It is a different tranny found in the JKs

[Pookapotamus]

Well a little update, just ran out for a Rutherford dip from this great little country kitchen down the street, and was able to get mort to make the sound consistently.

With the clutch in, and rev it a little it makes this noise, kinda like the starter motor gear is still engaged but not hooked to the starter, now with the clutch in, the tranny should not be turning at all, but can't figure out what's making to noise??? It's defiantly in the drive line as you can feel it through the stick.

Confused!!!

[4.3LXJ]

Dana, even when the clutch is in, there is enough friction to turn the gears in neutral. Does it do it with the clutch out?

[Pookapotamus]

No noise goes away. Dammit sounding more like a new tranny all the time.

[4.3LXJ]

Might be

[Pookapotamus]

Pilot bearing/bushing???

[4.3LXJ]

Noise only with clutch in? Any vibes at speed with the engine?

[Pookapotamus]

Yup only with clutch in.

[4.3LXJ]

you might have a pilot bushing problem then. Did you check it when you had the tranny out? Also could be a clutch arm out of adjustment

[Pookapotamus]

No! 😢

Pretty sure it's pilot bushing, have to fine one that will work with the 4.2 crank and 96 ax-15.

Also looking into a rebuild kit for the ax-15, as mine is on it's way out anyway. has anyone rebuild one before?

[4.3LXJ]

I haven't rebuilt one, but it doesn't look hard. When you cannot find the right pilot bushing, you can have one bored to the size you want. I have done it a few times

[Pookapotamus]

Well the pilot bushing has been quiet for a week now, not sure if it has worn completely away or just found a spot it likes, finally hitting the trails this weekend, will see how it holds up!

[4.3LXJ]

All you have to do is threaten it with repair. Makes them straighten right up :D

[Pookapotamus]

Well it was a fun day, about 2 feet of fresh powder out in the mountains made it real interesting! Need to get some garage time and do some upgrading! Mort needs a front locker for days like today!