drew303

The original frame was in awesome condition, like no rust and i found it on the side of a barn haha

I cleaned it up (wire brush, sanding and sand blasting). and kept as much of the original paint as possible which was like 90% of it =) .. then primered with rustoleum and then put like 3 coats of semi gloss black rustoleum. 2 yrs later frame looks good as new.

drew303

this thing kicks ass, i cruise in town at 2000rpm 4th gear, save on gas there! and 5th gear on the highway yields me a comfortable 70mph and im not pinning the peddle, i can climb mild hills to, no problem. nisqually hill i gotta put 'er in 4th but thats just to keep 70.

5.29's for the win!

drew303

I really should just start a build thread, but im to lazy to recap all of the trucks history, that's like a million stories and pictures. ha to much to list


Update: 10 - 9 - 09

I did some thinking and decided with the availablity of a spare vehicle (oh cant complain about using a Lexus SC300) coming up at the end of the month... that and I still need to install 5.29's in the FRONT axle so I have 4wd and can wheel this beast.

That... To save myself some serious time and labor, which working full time, swing shift doesnt allow much "time" cuz im definetly NOT a morning guy. I would utilize the front third and stock Dif Case to install an Aussie Locker, with NEW pinion/carrier bearings.. Install this Third into my REAR axle. And put the Detroit Truetrac with old bearings and (.205 of shims) in the front axle where it will be better off.

So these parts are on the road to me now. I'll start the project towards the end of October when i have more free-time.

In the meantime, I'm starting the fabrication of my new rear bumper tomorrow evening. If my order gets filled for the steel.

So...

the point of this to you guys following this particular thread (I think i will start a build thread, the truck deserves it) ... i will be running all new gear in the rear third member. Hopefully using less shims! ha

drew303

I got to flex my stuff out (max flex) to see where the tires would rub. I dont have to trim in the rear AT ALL. Tire stuffs perfectly. The front stuffs but rubs when the wheel is turned out. So I gotta cut my slider back and cut the fender (more than just tubbing) .. no big deal. I like cutting metal!

drew303

this is the only pic I got of the "test flex" ... on my old phone



Lil trimming and the tires will stuff and turn, lock to lock without rubbing. Nothing I'm to concerned with ! Less modding than i expected!

SpecialScottie

Great looking truck

drew303

I should just make a build thread. would be to much work

anyway, latest update

I cut the front fenders, cut the sliders, and installed the proper bump "stops" finally. It's offroadable at last! .. I'm excited, can't wait to wheel it.

I still have some more slider metal work and inner fender tubbing to do.... but only a tiny bit, ill do that tomorrow.. It crawls like a dream!

5.29 gears have since been installed, Aussie Locker Rear and Detroit Truetrac in the front.

love it =)