PDA

View Full Version : Ridgerunner97's XJ Build



ridgerunner97
07-13-2010, 06:49 PM
Well I've been a member here for a while so I figured it was time to create a build thread for my XJ. She ain't real impressive compared to what some of you guys are putting together but I figured i'd throw it up here anyway.

Started off with a 97 XJ 4.0L, AW4, NP231, Dana 30HP, and a Chrysler 8.25 29 spline rear. Took me a while to find one in my price range that I liked and wound up with this one after a few months.

This is how I picked her up, this is the first Saturday I had it and I took it up the mountains to try it out on some of the forest roads LOL, parked in front of my grandparents place.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v607/226/117/727056228/n727056228_1103513_896.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2227978&id=727056228)

So after that I got some new meats and took it out stock to Casparis in the snow :)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2069/226/117/727056228/n727056228_1375822_9552.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1636032&id=727056228)

After that I wheeled it for a while stock to get the feel for it.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2609/226/117/727056228/n727056228_1525736_4075.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1525687&id=727056228)

So got the itch and lifted it in July of last year. Went with a 3in Rough Country Lift.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs195.snc1/6572_103698391228_727056228_2170599_4844875_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2170608&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs175.snc1/6572_107401571228_727056228_2227978_3591919_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2170608&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs242.snc1/8928_136828601228_727056228_2600589_5126311_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2170608&id=727056228)

So that is where it still is height wise i'm really happy with the lift. I then acquired a set of Super Swamper LTB's off a member on here and a free set of factory steelies off of Josh1ofakindXJ (thanks bud :))

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs242.snc1/8928_142967081228_727056228_2649372_1159862_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2649372&id=727056228)

Wheeled it open diffs and the swampers for a while a few pics of that combo in action

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs242.snc1/8928_148851481228_727056228_2693551_7169174_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2695472&id=727056228)

This is my XJ, Tom's TJ, and Steve's Traveler @ Casparis in Dec.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs034.ash2/35064_404891216228_727056228_4538215_3206313_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3096805&id=727056228)

So I realized very quickly I needed Rocker protection and a locker in the ole XJ to take it to the next level Sooo I employed Brandon's skills to make me a set of sliders up for my Jeep

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs224.snc1/7118_154994366228_727056228_2746058_445879_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2853727&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs215.snc1/8232_156011791228_727056228_2755118_6704772_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2755119&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs235.snc1/8232_156010956228_727056228_2755116_4611759_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2755119&id=727056228)

Those sliders have taken some SERIOUS abuse and without them I honestly would have not been able to run some of the trails I have or do some of the maneuvers around trees and rocks that I have done because of them allowing me to pivot around them.

In March of this year I installed an Aussie Locker in the rear of my XJ with the help of Ragnorox, SuperScout and a big thank you to Ragnorox's buddy Dan for lettin me use his garage to do it inside. No real pics of the install to busy gettin it in and then drinkin beer :045: LOL

Some shots of what the Aussie has let me conquer without it I'd have had some serious trouble on these spots

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs461.snc3/25363_379234341228_727056228_3892929_1941903_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3892930&id=727056228)

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs461.snc3/25363_379233231228_727056228_3892908_6022448_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3892909&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs526.ash1/30915_387742021228_727056228_4077577_5882159_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4077580&id=727056228)

I also threw a set of JKS Discos on her courtesy of TJBlair and a front skid as well. It basically is sitting like this right now and also trimmed the front bumper end caps.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs020.ash2/34339_400392616228_727056228_4423582_3950531_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4423581&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs020.snc4/34339_400392601228_727056228_4423581_2705920_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4423581&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs020.ash2/34339_400392581228_727056228_4423580_1129784_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4423581&id=727056228)

So Today I ordered a set of Rusty's Flex Flares for the Jeep and am going to cut it way out to fit 33s and HOPEFULLY 34in LTB's. Also gotta pick up some Johnny Joints and bushings as well as tube adapters to put together a set of custom homeade lower control arms and it should be good to go for a while.

Dick.Breakey
07-13-2010, 07:24 PM
well thats good to know how you got there. i was curious. i didnt, however, even know it was lifted haha. my bad. maybe it was because of the meats you had. if you still had the stock stuff im sure i would have noticed more.

i cant wait to see it up 9"s more and on 37"s haha that would totally be you


j/k really, i dont wanna see that. but id like to see those 34"s tho

Dick.Breakey
07-13-2010, 07:25 PM
oh an good job ordering those flares. last time we were out that pass. front was doing its damndest to come all the way off

ridgerunner97
07-17-2010, 05:31 PM
Flares have arrived, i'm very happy with Rusty's, I didn't have any of the issues dealing with them that you read about all over the internet, maybe I got lucky idk. I got the Flex version of their rivet/screw on flares, they are made by a company in Australia for Rusty's. They are like a heavy rubber almost its hard to describe, maybe a rubbery urethane and I can literally twist the flares in a knot and they don't break :) However the quality as far as material thickness in the flange where the fasteners attach to the body is a little lower than I hoped for but still cosmetically fine and dandy. I plan on attaching with stainless Self Tappers for ease of replacement and speed in getting them on or off in the future. I'll post pics Tuesday after I hack her and install the flares.

Homeade Lower Control Arms, A/C Compressor Onboard Air Setup, JB Conversions SYE + Stock Front DS, and some rear quarter armor from OR-FAB coming up next, Stay tuned! :)

Sycotik Skier
07-18-2010, 10:20 PM
I really like the 34" ltb's on cherokees. I'm a big fan of the ltb itself and it seems to really excel on jeeps in the 34" flavor.

Deadman 94 xj
07-18-2010, 10:43 PM
Agreed. I love watching these threads!

ridgerunner97
08-19-2010, 08:37 PM
Lil update, tore the unibody under the drivers fender. Gotta weld it back up. Also cut the fenders out to put my Rusty's Flex Flares on.

Cuttin for the flares bein a dipshit

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs365.snc4/44817_416699356228_727056228_4846215_4169772_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4747766&id=727056228)

Finished fronts

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs257.snc4/40194_416702471228_727056228_4846227_5584569_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4846215&id=727056228)

Unibody Tore below the drivers rocker Sunday in a washout leveraged the slider downward climbing out of the washout since the Jeep was basically on the Drivers door. I basically tore behind the pinch weld and the inner rocker tore in two.

http://i983.photobucket.com/albums/ae318/dickbreakey/CIMG0176.jpg

http://i983.photobucket.com/albums/ae318/dickbreakey/CIMG0178.jpg

http://i983.photobucket.com/albums/ae318/dickbreakey/CIMG0179.jpg

The plan for before winter since i'm broke is to clean up the steel under there and using a combination of angle iron and flat sheet i'm going to stitch the ole girl back together, then in the spring its gonna get boatsided and frame stiffeners so nothing like this happens again and its gonna get a bit taller and some other lil tidbits here and there next summer.

Deadman 94 xj
08-19-2010, 08:49 PM
Those Rusty's flares look awesome!

You should be in good shape with that tear since you still have the inner rocker. You'll be removing everything when you box it in anyway so it should be fine. I forgot to look around for some write up's so I'll post up when I find them.

jeepin ruby
08-19-2010, 08:57 PM
Bout time you put those damn flares on.... Looks good!!

fathersnsons
08-19-2010, 09:26 PM
The flares look good. nice job.
need more XJ's out and about

ridgerunner97
08-19-2010, 09:38 PM
Thanks guys. Its slowly comin together, I've realized that if i'm gonna wheel this grocery getter anymore, I need to beef the unibody up before I go any further. A strong recommendation to anyone running an XJ and is just gettin into it, If your going to actually wheel it, get Frame Stiffeners and good sliders ASAP!!!! :) I wish i'd have done stiffeners and boatsides first thing!

Mykal
08-20-2010, 12:15 AM
I told you so. I even found you a good deal on a set of TNT stiffeners not far from you. The guy probably still has them. Get it done hippy. Let me know if you need a hand

Jeepin'Jones
08-20-2010, 12:55 AM
Flares are looking good man. I can't complain about Rusty's either. I ordered a bumper off them and they said it would take two weeks for me to get, five days later it showed up.

Ragnorox
08-20-2010, 07:38 AM
I told you so. I even found you a good deal on a set of TNT stiffeners not far from you. The guy probably still has them. Get it done hippy. Let me know if you need a handjob

Fixed it for you Mykal!

ridgerunner97
08-20-2010, 01:03 PM
LMFAO you guys are ridiculous. Hippy? where the fawk did that come from? I'm about the total opposite, Merle Haggard was singin about me in Okie From Muskogee.

Mark totally wins the awesomeness award for his quote edit priceless. I can see this thread is goin to go to hell quickly, thanks guys I don't know what i'd do without you guys for comedic relief.

Super Scout
08-20-2010, 01:08 PM
logs

ridgerunner97
10-13-2010, 09:30 PM
Well quick update, haven't made much progress, picked up 5 soft 8s off Jeepinruby, picked up a 2in receiver off Mykal, got the material for my LCAs only need the weld in bushings and the johnny joints. Might be changing that plan though I found a good deal on some parts so we'll see where it goes, If I can scrape some money together. I'm havin the typical broke college student issues right now though LOL

village_idiot
10-13-2010, 11:16 PM
you ever fix your torn unitbody issues?

hyperbuzzin
10-14-2010, 04:38 AM
I'm havin the typical broke college student issues right now though LOL

I'm having that too..... and I'm not even in college!!!! LOL
Good luck with gettin' the parts.

Dick.Breakey
10-14-2010, 04:41 AM
you ever fix your torn unitbody issues?


how about you just go the fuuuuck away. not even the rev wants you here. so GTFO

hydro joe
10-14-2010, 12:37 PM
ridgerunner97 That Jeep looks good for a Jeep haha (http://www.pgh-offroad.com/forum/member.php?1706-ridgerunner97)

ridgerunner97
10-14-2010, 12:54 PM
Haha thanks Joe, its slowly coming together. Pretty sure I want to keep this thing very streetable but very capable at the same time, so far its workin out that way.

DMG
10-14-2010, 01:38 PM
I am always surprised at where that thing goes on 31s.

Dick.Breakey
10-14-2010, 03:29 PM
word^^

village_idiot
10-14-2010, 05:02 PM
how about you just go the fuuuuck away. not even the rev wants you here. so GTFO
how bout you put that dick back in your mouth. there is no reason why should should have any concern over what happened when i sold the jeep. the kid looked it over 5 times by himself and 3 times with both friends and family and decided it was it was what he wanted regardless of the problems. he didnt ask if it had any problems, let alone if it had frame problems. i saw it the other day, i have pictures, its even more hacked up now than when i had it. if you are so concerned about it, ill give you the kids address and you can take it up with him.its out of my hands, i dont really give a shit if you want me here or not, i have just as much right to be here as you do. if you have any problems with me, either ignore me or PM me.

Ragnorox
10-14-2010, 05:28 PM
Well I guess Gibblets balls finally dropped!:112:

ridgerunner97
10-14-2010, 05:58 PM
Get the Bullshit out of this thread, its a fawkin build thread.

Ragnorox
10-14-2010, 06:00 PM
:popcorn:

Doty152
10-14-2010, 06:18 PM
Get the Bullshit out of this thread, its a fawkin build thread.

x2 I don't have any beef with anyone on here. Or any real reason to add to it, I just think EVERYONE need to keep drama out of the threads...


On a side note, Jeeps lookin good, I can't wait to start my build

limegreentj
10-14-2010, 06:56 PM
i just wanted to say...jon, jeeps lookin good


oh and yeah...GTFO gibson, fuuckface asshole!

village_idiot
10-14-2010, 07:26 PM
Get the Bullshit out of this thread, its a fawkin build thread.
exactly why i put either ignore or PM me. the xj is lookin good though. you gotta teach freddy how to drive his ;)

ridgerunner97
10-14-2010, 08:00 PM
He did okay on the ride Sunday.

village_idiot
10-14-2010, 08:03 PM
He did okay on the ride Sunday.
im just going by what i heard. so im assuming you fixed your unibody, did you ever get to the mini boatsides?

ridgerunner97
10-14-2010, 08:06 PM
No haven't welded it, or done the boatsides, no money and other shit has come up.

Sloth_Fratelli
10-14-2010, 08:37 PM
how bout you put that dick back in your mouth. There is no reason why should should have any concern over what happened when i sold the jeep. The kid looked it over 5 times by himself and 3 times with both friends and family and decided it was it was what he wanted regardless of the problems. He didnt ask if it had any problems, let alone if it had frame problems. I saw it the other day, i have pictures, its even more hacked up now than when i had it. If you are so concerned about it, ill give you the kids address and you can take it up with him.its out of my hands, i dont really give a shit if you want me here or not, i have just as much right to be here as you do. If you have any problems with me, either ignore me or pm me.



ZING! :jeepxj3:

Dick.Breakey
10-14-2010, 10:14 PM
sorry Jon. i just hate everything about that kid. punk kid. ill be done and only pm him

Sloth_Fratelli
10-15-2010, 03:31 PM
exactly why i put either ignore or PM me. the xj is lookin good though. you gotta teach freddy how to drive his ;)

im not gonna lie, i aint the best at wheelin yet but im workin on it. that was the first pgh-or trip i went on and it blew all the other shit ive been doing out of the water lol. gettin rid of those tiny mall terrains will probably help alot tho

village_idiot
10-15-2010, 05:05 PM
im not gonna lie, i aint the best at wheelin yet but im workin on it. that was the first pgh-or trip i went on and it blew all the other shit ive been doing out of the water lol. gettin rid of those tiny mall terrains will probably help alot tho
31s FTW. look at the dried rocky creek bed that i could run down at creek falls and all the stuff john runs on 31s. with a little practice you could run the same stuff.

pittim
10-15-2010, 05:16 PM
31s FTW. look at the dried rocky creek bed that i could run down at creek falls and all the stuff john runs on 31s. with a little practice you could run the same stuff.

his problem wasn't getting hung up underneath, so bigger tars wouldn't have helped him. his tires looked like a HT/AT mix, not very aggressive at all. if he an aggressive AT or MTs he woulda been fine.

village_idiot
10-15-2010, 11:49 PM
his problem wasn't getting hung up underneath, so bigger tars wouldn't have helped him. his tires looked like a HT/AT mix, not very aggressive at all. if he an aggressive AT or MTs he woulda been fine.
i forgot he had those street tars, im thinkin he had a 225 bfg at for some reason. but even those would pack up around here in the spring and fall. even my old half bald 31s would do better.

pittim
10-15-2010, 11:56 PM
i forgot he had those street tars, im thinkin he had a 225 bfg at for some reason. but even those would pack up around here in the spring and fall. even my old half bald 31s would do better.

i really dont get the appeal of BFG ATs except for the fact that they last like 2x as long as any tire.

Dick.Breakey
10-16-2010, 02:41 PM
i really dont get the appeal of BFG ATs except for the fact that they last like 2x as long as any tire.


i think you just answered your own question haha.

and they handle decent in everything. so its a good tire for someone who sees a lot of street time and minimal off pavement time or at least little mud time.

Sloth_Fratelli
10-16-2010, 05:05 PM
31s FTW. look at the dried rocky creek bed that i could run down at creek falls and all the stuff john runs on 31s. with a little practice you could run the same stuff.

im debating either bumping up a few inches and cutting the fenders out to fit something like 35's, or just cutting the fenders where im at and getting 33's. either way those fenders are getting cut

ridgerunner97
01-05-2011, 01:41 PM
Okay bringin this back with some updates Ordered Clayton's Double Shear HD trackbar setup, its the tits got it on its pure beef.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs750.ash1/164183_471594646228_727056228_5810773_2674521_n.jp g (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5937844&id=727056228)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs043.snc6/167319_472556811228_727056228_5831851_4160710_n.jp g (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5937844&id=727056228)
http://l27.sphotos.l3.fbcdn.net/hphotos-l3-snc4/hs1236.snc4/156891_472557411228_727056228_5831868_8061935_n.jp g (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5937844&id=727056228)

Install was straightforward, only thing was that the frame side Johnny Joint was a hair wide to fit in the bracket, seemed like the bracket warped when they welded it at the factory. I took a angle grinder to the cast iron center piece in the JJ and took 1/16 off both sides and it went right in.

Also ordered these leafs from Iron Rock Offroad just got em today. They are beef. Weigh 55lb a pack. Top notch quality and customer service.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs749.ash1/164022_477852121228_727056228_5937854_334900_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5937844&id=727056228)

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs025.snc6/165541_477851016228_727056228_5937844_1683864_n.jp g (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5937844&id=727056228)

http://l10.sphotos.l3.fbcdn.net/hphotos-l3-snc6/hs005.snc6/165541_477850971228_727056228_5937843_7014567_n.jp g (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5937844&id=727056228)

Lifetime Guarantee and they are built right. Lets just hope they ride good and are as tall as advertised and not more or less haha :)

Next on the to do list, PORC SYE Kit install into my spare 231, might wide chain it and put a 6 pinion planetary in it while its apart. Order JKS Boomerang shackles and then its time to install everything and get some 33-35s whatever I can find used and cheap! ;)

After all that i'm still debating whether to make short arms for it, or just save my pennies and get a Clayton's 3 Link Kit for the front, also building a Dana 30 for it this summer just a little at a time, when I start on that i'm gonna catch all kinds of hell hehe

sethman15210
01-05-2011, 01:59 PM
what kinda lift are those leafs supposed to net? that trac-bar is nice...go see the powder coat guy.

ridgerunner97
01-05-2011, 02:05 PM
Its already powdercoated, and the leafs are supposed to be at 3.5in of lift out of the box, I think they'll be a bit taller than that tho till they settle down some, IF they settle some, I'm goin to take some free arch measurements and eye to eye measurements and compare them to some known springs see how they compare before I put em on.

Deadman 94 xj
01-05-2011, 02:13 PM
Nice. The springs look great and I'm lovin that trackbar set up. Definitely a good choice IMO.

village_idiot
01-05-2011, 05:45 PM
those parts a beef. that thing is gonna be a beast.

Sycotik Skier
01-05-2011, 11:35 PM
BFG at's have treated me surprisingly well on my cj, granted I'm locked front and rear and don't really like mud but I was out at Outback offroad park and they held their own.

Sleeper
01-05-2011, 11:51 PM
So what are you shooting for height wise? School speed bumps or Mall speed bumps? j/k man, if your going for 4.5 or under stick with some adj controls, not long arms. Save your money for other things. And as far as your t-case chain there is no need at this point unless you already bought it. The 231 is a strong case and internals as is...

Mykal
01-05-2011, 11:55 PM
if your going for 2.5 or under stick with some adj controls, not long arms. Save your money for other things.

Fixed that for you. I seriously felt that mine rode great on short arms at 3.5". Then I put the long arms on. Then I realized it rode like shit. My stock XJ does not feel as good as my trail xj.

ridgerunner97
01-05-2011, 11:59 PM
Sleeper I agree with ya, the wide chain and 6 pinion upgrade were just wispy thoughts, but I'd rather put that money into the Clayton's 3 Link :) It will be Long armed of some variety after driving mykals a limited amount it is totally night and day

ridgerunner97
01-06-2011, 12:07 AM
BTW Mykal I can't wait to go to King of the Hammers haha! I'm freakin jacked.

Deadman 94 xj
01-06-2011, 12:15 AM
Sleeper I agree with ya, the wide chain and 6 pinion upgrade were just wispy thoughts, but I'd rather put that money into the Clayton's 3 Link :) It will be Long armed of some variety after driving mykals a limited amount it is totally night and day

I'm guessing that Clayton 3-link is new? That would definitely be the route I'd take.

Sleeper
01-06-2011, 12:16 AM
I was < > close to going long arm but i could not pass up brand new lowers and slightly used uppers as well as DB's for under 300 so i did it. I have not had a problem as of yet hitting anything and was hesitant on running DB's but said **** it for the price i got it all for. A jeep will ride like a jeep...shitty,lol. One day either on this one or the next i will go long arm but i change jeeps more often then most change woman change their hair color!

Mykal
01-06-2011, 12:26 AM
I'm guessing that Clayton 3-link is new? That would definitely be the route I'd take.

Id agree if I could get them to come off some numbers for it.

ridgerunner97
01-06-2011, 12:36 AM
^ It is a bit expensive but so far a great option. Ever since I saw it i've pretty much wanted it. If I can find a lightly used set of TNT Radius Arms, or Clayton's Radius setup i'd go that route too. If I go with a new radius arm setup i'm really into the TNT one, there belly pan is awesome.

Sleeper
01-06-2011, 12:48 AM
But clayton is much nicer due to if you have to remove an arm you do not have to drop the x-member to do so....

ridgerunner97
01-06-2011, 12:52 AM
^ Agreed 100% but the whole lack of a serious belly pan under there kinda bugs me a bit. I guess I could make my own relatively flat skid to attach. weld angle onto the frame stifeners that will be on it at that point and drill and tap the angle to attach a plate to with recessed fasteners...God damn I hate thinking about stuff like that I get depressed it seems like it will take forever to get to that point LOL

Sleeper
01-06-2011, 12:57 AM
Honestly, you have "the itch" as i did, i had huge plans for my XJ but when i thought about it... it is a DD that sees wheeling (and decent wheeling) but in all honestly you prob will not be doing crazy wheeling/rock crawling with it so dont bother. Make it a decent DD rig with good off road capabilities. I stopped at 32's,6" lift and rear locker. Perfect for a DD and good weekend rig all the same. It all depends on what you want to get out of it, everybody including myself wants full skid, lockers, lift, 35's etc but actually sit down and think about what you will be doing and what "actually" you need to do to it to go on runs around here. I think in the outcome you will find your thinking exceeds your bank account and wants......

ridgerunner97
01-06-2011, 01:07 AM
Oh christ i've far exceeded my bank account numerous times haha. I am shooting for 4.5in of lift, i'm cut already, locked in the rear. Regear to 4.56, selectable locker in front, 33x10.50s on the road, 34x10.50 LTB's offroad. Frame stiffeners, gas tank skid, belly pan, oil pan skid, bumpers, done. Longarms in there too. I want the longarms because I do drive it so much. It will be driven its entire life, it will never be a non street legal wheeler. I like driving it so I want to build it so I can drive it to Moab and back if I want to, or anywhere else for that matter. Its just one piece at a time and that is the hardest thing, is to just take it one piece at a time.

Super Scout
01-06-2011, 08:50 AM
Hey Jon, buy a daily driver :) it will be the best mod you have done so far...

Powerguy37
01-06-2011, 09:02 AM
Hey Jon, buy a daily driver :) it will be the best mod you have done so far...
I agree 100%.

skeebs
01-06-2011, 09:22 AM
I agree 100%.

x3

It's nice to go in the woods and not have to be just a little paranoid each & every time about breaking something.

ridgerunner97
02-12-2011, 10:12 PM
Well contrary to the wishes of the three vaginas that posted above the ole XJ is still goin to be the primary driver as of right now. :)

Decided that I'm going with the Rough Country Longarms since I can get a real smokin deal on em and I'm yet to hear much negative feedback on the arm's themselves. They should be here in a few weeks. Pickin some 33s up on Tuesday for this season's wheeling, and also the crown jewel I scored some free Rough Country 2.2 shocks off a friend that are for a 4.5in lifted JK, should work well for my Longarm setup according to my measurements, and scored a good HP 30 to build for a whopping $25 bucks off a good friend. Going to take it one piece at a time building the front axle, will update as I go, feel free to flame away on my "Dirty Turd" build LOL

tjblair
02-12-2011, 10:19 PM
sweet!

ridgerunner97
02-12-2011, 10:33 PM
Yeah its sweet til I start putting it all together LOL

limegreentj
02-12-2011, 10:48 PM
im tellin ya, buy a cheap ass DD and then dump your money into your xj. you'll be glad you did it

ridgerunner97
02-12-2011, 11:34 PM
^ Your a vagina as well :flipoff2:

Super Scout
02-13-2011, 02:37 AM
^ yeah we are vaginas, keep telling yourself that. One day when you realize how right we were you will really be screwed :)

Deadman 94 xj
02-13-2011, 02:50 AM
Like the plan Jon. Looking forward to seeing it!

Deadman 94 xj
02-13-2011, 02:52 AM
im tellin ya, buy a cheap ass DD and then dump your money into your xj. you'll be glad you did it


Cheap ass DD's have their headaches as well.


^ yeah we are vaginas, keep telling yourself that. One day when you realize how right we were you will really be screwed :)

I never had a problem driving mine to the grociery store.... It's not like he's DD'ing a scout :082:

ridgerunner97
02-13-2011, 10:43 AM
^ HAHAHA my station wagon is a known quantity, i'm afraid of buying a little hooptie and having it go straight to hell and wind up having to triple my initial investment to just be able to sell the damned thing. I have shitty luck LOL

Super Scout
02-13-2011, 11:39 AM
Thats because you keep looking at stupid cars for a DD and you know it. You could get a reliable car 1000 beans all day long. And run it. Even if you have issues with it its still a second ride. I DD'd a Scout in college for 3 years and about 70,000 miles never had an issue. No battery draining issues, no locking and unlocking, no overheat issues. No problems :)

limegreentj
02-13-2011, 11:55 AM
buy another xj for a dd

Mykal
02-13-2011, 12:08 PM
buy another xj for a dd

Agreed. You wont regret that one bit.

Super Scout
02-13-2011, 12:13 PM
Thats a good idea, Cheap, you know how to work on them and you probably have a pile of parts already.

limegreentj
02-13-2011, 12:16 PM
thats why i own 4 jeeps total...lol

ridgerunner97
02-13-2011, 12:17 PM
Fixed the overheating months ago which was a faulty $6 thermostat, fixing the gremlin power locks causing my battery drain this week LOL other than that my XJ is one reliable mother****er, mine is ready to go all the time, and it is wheeled and my daily driver unlike soooomebody's Scout....:flipoff2: SuperScout: "ahh its runnin like shit, I don't know what's wrong with it..." 4 months pass, Ridgerunner: "Hey your Scout ready to go?" SuperScout: "No, It's still running like shit, I haven't done anything to it yet (cuz i'm to busy playing with my willy and sitting on the couch drinking beer)" :082:

Super Scout
02-13-2011, 12:20 PM
I like beer and my scout can sit for a decade because I have a reliable DD. If I didn't I would have too. But its cold outside and the scout can stay broken until its warmer. For all I know it might just be a loose wire I have yet to pop the hood and look :)

fmlyof4whlrs
02-13-2011, 05:51 PM
unless you have a crazy buggy that needs towed cause it won't pass a PA inspection I say build yourself a reliable double duty rig. Yeah drive your XJ to work and to the trail. Any daily driver is going to funds away from the toy. They will always need good tires, brakes, inspections, registration. Not saying have 2 cars is a bad thing but if you can't afford to keep the one going buying another isn't going to help.

gonecheenin
04-01-2011, 10:45 PM
Making her grow up a step at a time is the smart way to go - too many people go full blast at the begining then don't know how to drive the dang thing!

And if your not wheeling it too hard to keep it street, then don't take it off the road - it's PA, if your not road "legal" it opens up a whole nother can of frickin worms!!!

ridgerunner97
04-11-2011, 07:21 PM
Well, may as well update, water pump shit out, swapped that out to the tune of $35 and the heep is on jackstands in the driveway since all the parts that go on the front end decided to self destruct... Doing Balljoints, Ujoints, Wheel Bearings, Control Arm bushings. It needs inner axle seals but it has for 3yrs, i'm just gonna slap some outer axle seals from AlloyUSA in the tubes to keep excess slop from getting in the tubes and call it good :) Soooo the mountain of parts I have in the shed is going to find there way onto the Jeep while its crippled in the driveway List is...

Rear Leafs
New Ubolts
Set pinion angle to keep from vibing (bandaid for a month or so til I SYE)
4 Shocks
Upper/Lower Control Arms
Put my front skid back on

The goal is for this bad boy to be buttoned back up and ready to rock for the first weekend in May, which will be its first offroad debut this year and run it hard every weekend in May all over the tri state area to shake down/break it (hehe) until June when it will go under the knife again for its next lil bump in capability....stay tuned

ridgerunner97
04-16-2011, 09:43 PM
Had Commercial Spring in New Alex bend me up some custom ubolts which turned out fricken awesome and it only cost me $10 a ubolt and took 5min from when I walked in the door (Pics Later). Got the Leafs hung and the shocks off the rear, had to modify the JK rear shocks I got off of JKChick a bit to make them work by pressing out the steel sleeve in the bushing on the bottom shock mount that goes to the XJ axle mounts to fit onto them. Still a super snug fit, and am betting they will mush out pretty quick. I may use an endmill or something like that to open up the bushing a bit more. Balljoints got ordered and should be here by tuesday. I tried out a new manufacturer to me anyway called Mevotech who are a canadian company that makes all kinds of suspension parts, kinda like the Spicer or Moog of Canada LOL. More pics to come this week as I button this bitch up and give her a whirl by the house.

RalphDogg
04-16-2011, 10:10 PM
$10 a u bolt is a smokin deal i will have to remember that.

Mykal
04-16-2011, 10:33 PM
$10 a piece? I think I paid $3 a piece to have them bent up at Uniontown Spring.

justin'sbig7
04-16-2011, 10:45 PM
$10 a piece? I think I paid $3 a piece to have them bent up at Uniontown Spring.

If they still make them for 3 bucks a piece(and they are quality made) then stockpile them. $10 is the going rate it seems

Mykal
04-16-2011, 10:55 PM
Damn. Granted that was about two years ago now that I think about it. They were quality. Amazing, the price of such simple things sometimes.

ridgerunner97
04-16-2011, 11:01 PM
Yeah I called around, and $10 was a smoking deal. My dad was like "I used to get them for a buck or two at Uniontown Spring" LOL Leaf Spring shops are dying out a bit around here it seems or the demand isn't nearly as high as it used to be. Commercial is right on Rt. 22 and do lots of gas field and semi truck work as well as custom heavy duty stuff so i'd imagine that is the reason their prices are better than anywhere else is due to volume possibly.

Sloth_Fratelli
04-17-2011, 12:52 AM
i think the ones i got at hovis in zelie were $6, but they gave me gigantic ones and i diddnt even realize till i went to put em on

ridgerunner97
05-01-2011, 01:40 PM
Well got the entire stupid thing put together yesterday, goes down the road pretty good except for the shot control arm bushings that will get addressed later, I was just sick of not driving it so those can wait a bit. Driveline vibes are minimal and i'm sitting at a hair over 4in of lift. I'm still planning on an SYE but i've got other things that need addressing so i'm gonna shim the rearend up a bit to get the vibes down even more for the short term. Its lookin okay, i've got some pics from when it was apart, nothing special...

My awesome garage (the cone is for when I come home drunk I don't miss my parkin spot and go over the retaining wall :) )

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/205426_10150142285281229_727056228_6577354_397345_ n.jpg

Stripped and ready to yank the knucks

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/205426_10150142285326229_727056228_6577355_3736915 _n.jpg

New Leafs with a killer pinion angle :029:

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/223501_10150159460346229_727056228_6730990_7478424 _n.jpg

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/222662_10150159462311229_727056228_6731048_2114721 _n.jpg

This shot is at ride height with the weight of the Jeep and 32's :nod:

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/222662_10150159462341229_727056228_6731050_6236536 _n.jpg

I'll get a poser shot later today of the finished product!

ComChewy
05-01-2011, 05:14 PM
Jon, did you get those mesurement's that I asked you about on the rear springs, you're starting to get like Cheeks now........

:028:


:icon_weed:

ridgerunner97
08-21-2011, 08:19 AM
Wow I let this thread go for a while. Stock piled some more parts and wheeled the shit out of it a few times this summer, not nearly as much as I wanted, life got in the way.

Some more pics of this summer's wheelin

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/252045_10150192184461229_727056228_7000854_261_n.j pg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/251458_640973192928_50705078_34130273_6858678_n.jp g

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/284520_640973267778_50705078_34130276_5092076_n.jp g


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xc7V4t7Wf2s

I've also got a rear bumper off mykal and a tire carrier that needs modified to fit, picked up some 16x7 silver soft 8's for my DD'n tires, and a set of HD Offroad Engineering Frame Stiffeners for it. The Gen-Right replacement rocker kit is getting ordered this week coming and then its time to install all that junk. Pics of the parts and installs to follow...

ridgerunner97
10-11-2011, 01:26 PM
Well don't think I ever posted this, but I got a Steering box spacer plate from JCR Offroad when I swapped my steering box after the cluster**** memorial day weekend in WV. Plate is nice, could've made it myself but didn't have any suitable scrap laying around and time was short so I bought it

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/253620_10150199711251229_727056228_7072720_453922_ n.jpg

https://s-hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/253620_10150199711271229_727056228_7072721_1388594 _n.jpg

Wound up gettin a different roof basket off JeepinRuby, and wound up getting the bumper of Mykal's on the Jeep.

Had to redo the exhaust due to the studs the 97-01 XJ's have for the rear exhaust hanger that interfere with the nutstrips that the bumper is tied into, couldn't get it to work so I did this, 9 bucks and a chop saw later I had a turndown and a good hanger

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/319276_10150305763161229_727056228_7945174_1045010 076_n.jpg

I just self tappered the heat shield back on to the frame rail since it was mangled good, just temporary til I get a skid for the fuel tank.

I'll get some pics of the bumper and the frame stiffeners here soon to post up as well as the new to me Daily Driving Shoes, and the wheelin shoes :)

ridgerunner97
10-11-2011, 10:43 PM
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/305130_10150321626406229_727056228_8038121_8708791 36_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/305130_10150321626336229_727056228_8038120_3380011 51_n.jpg

Thats the bumper I'm going to be adding a tire carrier to that I picked up off of TJBlair.

Without the help of some good friends i've met along the way, finding/getting good deals on stuff, and the help of my dad occassionally, my Jeep wouldn't be half the vehicle it is.

village_idiot
10-11-2011, 10:51 PM
john, how do you wheel so damn hard and keep your xj in one piece?

tjblair
10-12-2011, 07:19 AM
looks good jon.

Super Scout
10-12-2011, 07:50 AM
john, how do you wheel so damn hard and keep your xj in one piece?
Because Jon is proactive rather than reactive.

ridgerunner97
10-12-2011, 02:58 PM
I really don't think I wheel hard at all...

96greenxjjeep
10-12-2011, 07:41 PM
x2

ridgerunner97
11-06-2011, 08:14 PM
What do ya guys think LII slider boxes or Shackle Relocater's?

Relocator's

http://www.liquidironindustries.com/product.php?productid=18231&cat=351&page=1

Slider boxes

http://www.liquidironindustries.com/product.php?productid=18222&cat=351&page=1

Almost a $100 difference in price between them. What do you guys think?

Mykal
11-06-2011, 08:17 PM
Relocators in your instance.

Mykal
11-06-2011, 08:19 PM
http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=1066198

http://pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?p=13528533

ridgerunner97
11-06-2011, 08:28 PM
Interesting never saw those threads, when I search for stuff I never find what i'm looking for LOL the search's hate me...

ridgerunner97
11-09-2011, 04:44 PM
Just ordered a set of these for the rig

http://www.jcroffroad.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=XJTLHSG97&Category_Code=CLST

jeepin ruby
11-09-2011, 09:42 PM
Sweet! Whats your plans for reverse lights with those?

joshs1ofakindxj
11-09-2011, 10:44 PM
Now I won't be the only one with trailer/truck lights on the block. Lame!

joshs1ofakindxj
11-09-2011, 10:45 PM
Remember if you run LEDs you have to throw resistors in so your flashers work or do like I did and pull the stock wiring into the body and leave the old lights plugged in for the necessary resistance.

SirFuego
11-09-2011, 10:51 PM
Remember if you run LEDs you have to throw resistors in so your flashers work or do like I did and pull the stock wiring into the body and leave the old lights plugged in for the necessary resistance.

Couldn't you also just buy an electronic flasher to replace the stock thermal flasher?

joshs1ofakindxj
11-09-2011, 10:56 PM
Couldn't you also just buy an electronic flasher to replace the stock thermal flasher?

You're crazy.

Mykal
11-09-2011, 10:57 PM
Couldn't you also just buy an electronic flasher to replace the stock thermal flasher?

That just remedies the flashing rate.

I used Tow Ready - #119130 (http://www.etrailer.com/Wiring/Tow-Ready/119130.html) when I wired my LED's. Made it simple.
I originally bought a harness from NAPA. It did NOT work.

Heres a writeup. (http://naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=980571)

Ragnorox
11-09-2011, 11:07 PM
Couldn't you also just buy an electronic flasher to replace the stock thermal flasher?

tried that, worked for the back light, not the front.....go figure!

ridgerunner97
11-09-2011, 11:22 PM
Yup yup thanks guys, sorry i'm stealin your thunder Josh your still the cool kid on the block cuz you got a big ole deuce though.

Thanks for postin up those write-ups saved me a thread! Will get pics as soon as they arrive, still haven't decided what i'm doin for lights yet.

Mykal
11-09-2011, 11:31 PM
Run Aurora lights in the gate.

ridgerunner97
11-09-2011, 11:32 PM
Thats not what I meant, but yeah that is the plan for reverse lights haha even though mine don't work cuz the nss is junk

joshs1ofakindxj
11-10-2011, 07:52 AM
I put a switch for my reverse lights on the dash by running a hot wire to the switch then to the fuse in the fuse block for the reverse lights so I just throw power to the factory circuit when I need them for hooking up a trailer, or in your case any time you go backwards.

ezman
11-12-2011, 08:43 PM
just go with the wiring harness that mykal mentioned. my tail lights were a nightmare to get working properly. that harness makes everything super easy and cleans up all the unnecessary wiring. though in my case i cut all the stock wiring out from the front seats back.

ridgerunner97
11-12-2011, 10:22 PM
They showed up yesterday...shazaam!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/390932_10150361508196229_727056228_8256433_6494484 8_n.jpg

ridgerunner97
11-12-2011, 10:24 PM
I also have a Ruffstuff Diff Cover for the turdy to put on, countersunk fasteners, and drain plug option. Going to do something a little different with a finish on it i'll see how I like it and you guys can judge the result. I'll have a pic sometime this week of that little mini project.

ridgerunner97
12-07-2011, 12:25 AM
This is the Ruffstuff cover. I tried just clear enamel and didn't like how it looked so I did silver metallic enamel from rustoleum with their clear enamel over it. I'll get a pic of it on the Jeep this one is before the clear was on it, it took the sheen off it but left the flake pop a bit.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/374214_10150386664411229_727056228_8347613_1955538 573_n.jpg

cityslicker
12-07-2011, 03:10 PM
Looking good buuuudy. I dig those kind of tail light setups.

DixieJeeper
12-07-2011, 11:24 PM
I want those JCR full rear fender quaters and lights for the XJ. Looking good...

when you are done do you want to work on my XJ and make it less dodgey in the steering department? :)

ridgerunner97
01-13-2012, 03:00 PM
^ Haha I'll bust out the sawsall and cut the fenders to hell and then ditch 4 inches of altitude that should straighten it up right quick!

ridgerunner97
01-13-2012, 03:07 PM
Also I've been buying parts like a heroin addict buys stamp bags LOL I've got JKS boomerang shackles, the LII shackle relocators, Gen-Right rocker replacement kit, and the HD Offroad Engineering Stiffeners to put on the XJ and probably forgettin some things, too many parts and no garage to work in!

DixieJeeper
01-13-2012, 10:29 PM
Also I've been buying parts like a heroin addict buys stamp bags......

And tossing old parts aside like they go through spoons and rubber bands? :) If my kid gets stuck by an errant XJ shackle on the playground I am going to be pissed.

yotaneck13
01-16-2012, 09:55 PM
looks good well have ta meet up and wheel together at scrubgrass next time i should have my 81 toyota if i get the carb rebuilt

ridgerunner97
04-18-2012, 10:15 PM
Gettin ready to kick some ass on this piece of junk. Painted one of the taillight boxes tonight been busy with other stupid shit. Only things left I need before the big push in the next few weeks are the LED's for the boxes, front coils, and either find a yoke in the junkyard or order a yoke for my hack n tap sye. I have everything else I need to go to the next step. Updates and pictures to come...

joshs1ofakindxj
04-19-2012, 09:49 AM
You're not doing the RE flange on the hack n tap? Are you going with the corvette yoke?

RalphDogg
04-19-2012, 05:02 PM
wohoo, rip that baby apart!

ridgerunner97
04-19-2012, 06:51 PM
You're not doing the RE flange on the hack n tap? Are you going with the corvette yoke?

No stupid ass flange for me. Cost is prohibitive because when you buy the flange, you have to buy an adapter to bolt the driveshaft to the flange. One of the dumbest things i've ever seen produced, and I honestly can't believe they still manufacture it. I'm either going with the turbo 350 flange if I can find the right one in the junkyard or i'm going to be ripping into early 80's buicks and cadillacs with the 200r4 I think it was because they have the correct yoke I'm told. If I can't find one in the junkyard I'll just order a yoke.

joshs1ofakindxj
04-19-2012, 07:01 PM
Well I'm guess I'm a sucker for a flange haha that is what I have on the camo jeep. I don't think I ever even needed it.

I found a guy on Naxja using a corvette yoke too. Bolts up right to the XJ front shaft and bolts on the case output once it's cut down.

ridgerunner97
04-19-2012, 07:52 PM
Idk, I just never liked the flange. Shit, when you did the camo jeep that's probably when that thing was hot shit on Jeepforum and options weren't big out there :flipoff2:

I saw the vette write ups, I think those are the one's with the turbo 350. I'm goin to make a junkyard run sometime soon I think just to rummage around and see what I can find.

Deadman 94 xj
04-19-2012, 11:29 PM
....and take pics! Let me know if you need a hand with anything.

ridgerunner97
08-19-2012, 08:29 PM
Whelp, I've decided after some drunken shenanigans this weekend with the cherokee that I'm going to take it off the road for a while since I've got the cavalier now to drive and can borrow my dad's trucks whenever I need them. My steering is absolutely shot, every tie rod end is junk, driver's knuckle taper may or may not be wobbled out of spec, it needs front pads, axle seals, control arm bushings etc. Only good things in the front end are the balljoints, ujoints, and clayton's track bar. I'm seriously contemplating taking this build a bit of a different direction and have decided to take some time off from the sport for a while until I figure this out. I'm working on the 30x40 garage with my dad we're building and soon an addition to the house. The Cherokee is going leafs up front possibly and still trying to figure out what i'm doing for axles...I'll update when I figure out what the hell i'm doing, expect some parts to go up for sale, locked 8.25, the whole front end for whatever it will bring and so on.

Powerguy37
08-19-2012, 08:54 PM
You guys all need to get your shit together. Ralph sold his stuff, Tom's is selling his Jeep, you're taking a break. WTF???

tjblair
08-19-2012, 09:20 PM
Tom is selling his pile????????????

ridgerunner97
08-19-2012, 09:26 PM
You don't think it slightly bothers me to park this thing? I've wheeled the shit out of it and somehow it's held together fairly well. I'm not going anywhere, I'm still here, drinking beer and plotting :) Just don't go selling your junk like Mykal sold his. I'll always have the Jeep, I just need to quit being a dipshit and do what I've always wanted to do and just sit down and quit afro engineering it all together everytime it breaks. Leaf Sprung fun coming to a trail near you :023:

Powerguy37
08-19-2012, 09:36 PM
Tom is selling his pile????????????


http://pgh-offroad.com/forum/showthread.php?19808-1998-Wrangler-4.0L

Ragnorox
08-20-2012, 12:30 AM
never fear Dana.......i am not selling my shit......AND I am so ready to wheel!

RalphDogg
08-20-2012, 08:44 AM
hey hey, i'll be back and more fun than ever.

joshs1ofakindxj
08-20-2012, 10:38 AM
Nothing wrong with taking a break to re-engineer.

My beater XJ is in need of a major revamp also. Parts are stacked up, I just need to find the time.

Deadman 94 xj
08-20-2012, 11:29 AM
Tom is selling his pile????????????

Thanks Jeff, I didn't realize you cared... :icon_syda::050::055:

:081:

Don't worry, I'll be tormenting you on the trails all next summer.


Jon, get your self setup so you can work on your junk comfortably and take your time. There is no shame in taking a year off to overhall the jeep when you're in it for the long haul as long as its something you truely enjoy. I get just as much enjoyment out of working in the garage as I do being on the trails and sometimes just as much of a rush.

ridgerunner97
09-03-2012, 09:41 PM
Did some more reevaluating and am just pushing forward with my original plan of keeping my axles now and running 35's. I change my mind more than a woman. I've genuinely gotta mechanical ADD. Expect updates starting this week since i'm starting on the rear end. Hopefully knock this thing out by October 1st pending no serious hang ups.

Revamp deadline Oct. 1st includes:

Install LII shackle relocators
Install JKS boomer shackles
Install stiffeners
Install Genright mini boatside kit
Do Dirtbound HnT SYE
Set rear pinion angle
Install Ruffstuff Steering
Order Shocks
Order Coils


Take shakedown run around the house and hope it holds together to make it to Jersey and back. Tall order but hoping to attempt to pull it off.

Post Oct. Plans:

Get my LED's/Converter installed in my armor boxes out back
Build Mid Arm 3 link setup.
Order JJ insert for top of Dana 30 pumpkin UCA mounting point.
Regear to 4.56/4.88
Aussie Front
Cromo front shafts
Wheel the ever loving piss out of it next summer since it's not a DD and I've missed a whole summer of wheeling this year which was LAAAAAAAAAAAAAAME.

tceraso
09-04-2012, 06:11 AM
I just thought you gave it up. LOL

ridgerunner97
09-04-2012, 07:38 AM
Never Tom, Never.

Super Scout
09-04-2012, 08:12 AM
Never Tom, Never.

Lol, atleast once a month you have some insane plan about selling the XJ and building a FSJ/YJ/Ramcharger/ etc.... lol

ridgerunner97
09-04-2012, 09:47 PM
^ Maybe true, BUT, I will NEVER quit wheeling in some form or the other.

joshs1ofakindxj
09-04-2012, 09:51 PM
Riding that fat chick in the mud doesnt count.

ridgerunner97
09-04-2012, 09:52 PM
Haha your right Josh but that made for some interesting entertainment

ridgerunner97
09-25-2012, 10:20 PM
Still sticking to the original plan. Some mock up pics, this thing is going to have full on retard rear travel. Gotta measure for shocks still, paint the bracketry, bolt it in and weld em.




https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/271059_10151073829726229_224890391_n.jpg

ridgerunner97
09-25-2012, 10:22 PM
The pesky upper shackle bolts were seized in the bushing sleeves, just cut em off with the sawsall and turned the 1/2in stub left in the nut out with channel locks.

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/558641_10151076751411229_631640185_n.jpg

Powerguy37
09-25-2012, 10:25 PM
Is it going to be done in time RC?

ridgerunner97
09-25-2012, 10:26 PM
Then proceeded to put the LII shackle relocators in place with a bolt that fit holding them in place temporarily, then machined down the bushings in the JKS shackles to fit the width of the boxes. Turned out great and has mad amounts of wheel travel and I haven't even really cycled it fully yet with weight to set the shackles where they need to be initially. Just a quick shot of full droop, shows my killer Iron Rock leafs as well.

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/548431_10151076754116229_900973007_n.jpg

ridgerunner97
09-25-2012, 10:28 PM
Is it going to be done in time RC?

I have no idea, i'm not rushing it at all. It is what it is. I'm done pressuring myself to get shit done to do this or do that, I have enough pressure at work lately don't want it at home too LOL. I still have to figure out what i'm doing with the front end.

ridgerunner97
09-25-2012, 10:30 PM
Pros and Cons to mid arm wristed 3 link anybody? Basically mid arms, with an upper radius arm on the drivers side and just a lower link on the passenger....a clayton's radius kit basically with the one upper missing on passenger....trying to evaluate options/cost etc. etc.

joshs1ofakindxj
09-26-2012, 07:22 PM
con - if you break that one upper you're done. pro - should flex easier, but if you're already flexing to the bump stops with maxed out droop then why bother.

Mykal
09-26-2012, 07:28 PM
Pros - You wont twist off the passenger side upper mount off the pumpkin under heavy use. Thats one of the major draw backs with radius arms on a small axle setup. D30, D44.

Cons. - If you break the very small bolt holding the driver side upper at the pumpkin you will destroy your pinion, drive shaft, mid arms, etc. At speed you may even die.

Its just as easy to leave the passenger side upper lock nuts loose to allow a bit of twisting when flexing or remove it at the trail head and put it back after wards.
Flex isnt really limited by the passenger upper at all. I never thought to my self man I wish I didnt have that on there. I could almost get my axle vertical with radius arms.

Just buy my damn Claytons and be done with it.

Super Scout
09-26-2012, 09:33 PM
^That would involve spending money and we all know Jon wouldn't pay a nickle to watch a cripple crawl :)

ridgerunner97
09-26-2012, 10:14 PM
Just buy my damn Claytons and be done with it.

I was going to call you tonight but got occupied with other stuff. I'll call you tomorrow at some point.

ridgerunner97
09-26-2012, 10:15 PM
^That would involve spending money and we all know Jon wouldn't pay a nickle to watch a cripple crawl :)

I could just hit you with a bat and watch you crawl, that would be free, so I'd be down with it! :) LOL

jopickens
09-27-2012, 09:24 PM
I have some really nice Clayton stuff in my shop that I know doesn't fit an Audi - I'll make u a good deal Jon - another quart of shine? 8-)

Hey really tho - hijacking for a moment - got any rear dodge 1/2 ton truck or ramcharger leaf springs lying about? I want...

Also - "killer Iron Rock leafs as well" what is a 'Killer rock leaf'

Hope all is well up there - maybe see u guys soon...
Josh

Super Scout
09-27-2012, 09:35 PM
Holy hell, he does exist.

ridgerunner97
09-27-2012, 10:25 PM
I have some really nice Clayton stuff in my shop that I know doesn't fit an Audi - I'll make u a good deal Jon - another quart of shine? 8-)

Josh

Haha i'll give you a gallon of even better than what I had last time for that old dodge you have :) On the topic of leafs my neighbor is a horder and doesn't want to sell any of the junk dodges, if we wind up scrapping them i'll pull whatever I can/you want. I keep offering to cut them up for him but he just blows it off. But i'll check with Ryan if he has anything sitting around, he was my buddy with the Dak at wellsville, PM me your cell and i'll give ya a call.

tow hook
09-29-2012, 10:26 PM
Pros and Cons to mid arm wristed 3 link anybody? Basically mid arms, with an upper radius arm on the drivers side and just a lower link on the passenger....a clayton's radius kit basically with the one upper missing on passenger....trying to evaluate options/cost etc. etc.

are ya gonna come up to vist me and measure my set up ??? oh john just spend the $$$ you will feel better after it's spent. lol

asicsingy
12-13-2012, 11:27 PM
Ugg Italia (http://www.uggitaliai.it/)The most important characteristic for a good blog web hosting service provider is to give perfect support for software. This differs from one provider to other so, should be taken good care of.
Abercrombie Berlin (http://www.abercrombieberlin.com.de/)

ridgerunner97
01-01-2013, 11:32 AM
Whelp, I half ass put the XJ back together to drive while I rebuild the engine in my cavillac. Rear suspension is done for now, shocks should show up shortly. I have the RE coils for the front, Clayton's Longarms blah blah blah. Trying to buy a Scout 44 for the rear. Ordered a front bumper from JCR the list continues to grow, this thing should be a bad mother when I get it together....Plan is a Scout 44 rear and a Dana 34 Jeep/IH front axle with reid knuckles. Working on getting some pics of the parts and the finished stance for the rear, has room for 35's especially after I put the Scout rear in with a small stretch in wheelbase

Azzy
01-01-2013, 11:46 AM
I love the suspension travel that the relocation brackets gave me, but I did run into 2 hiccups with them. First... shock travel. Second, If you load it up too much, it does stress the shackle box a good bit. Its not too hard to do when you have a bunch of heavier frieds and a spare and tools in the back.

ridgerunner97
01-01-2013, 12:10 PM
Mine bolt into the uniframe as well where the trailer hitch and my homeade rear bumper attach as well. I'm not worried about it, just my leafs getting mangled up because of the extra leverage. Shocks are no problem for me, I measured up and ordered a set of Doetsch Tech DT8000's for the back and will properly bumpstop. I'm planning on running limit straps up front with the claytons if I run into any problems with too much droop. Bilstein discontinued the 5150 so I'm trying to figure out what I want to do for front shocks still

ridgerunner97
11-03-2013, 10:29 AM
Oh my this thread is old... Locked the front, added cromoly's up front, just finished the ruffstuff heim joint steering setup this weekend. Got the winch on and front bumper, Doetsch Tech 8k shocks up front....doing the boatsides and 34in LTB's this week. Wheelin it Sunday and then tearing it back apart to truss and gear the front axle to 4.56 and install the clayton's long arms.

ridgerunner97
11-03-2013, 11:01 AM
https://scontent-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/970069_10151657122674039_931971057_n.jpg

hyperbuzzin
11-03-2013, 01:59 PM
Lookin' pretty nice there!!

ridgerunner97
11-12-2013, 09:51 PM
Some more pics of the progress...

I laid most of this out and I measured and prepped for the steering setup. All he did was the welding and some minor fitment. If anyone is interested in welding or fab work get a hold of me via PM and i'll get you in contact with my brother he is good and reasonable.

https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/943362_181719178684131_1632031133_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1465265_181719225350793_1398058538_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1426572_181719292017453_1725519135_n.jpg

https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1455095_181719315350784_1630275021_n.jpg

ridgerunner97
11-12-2013, 09:52 PM
https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1452038_181719338684115_699736086_n.jpg

https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1392016_181719362017446_343843494_n.jpg

https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1456727_181719392017443_569856168_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/545963_181719428684106_871477673_n.jpg

ridgerunner97
11-12-2013, 09:57 PM
https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1394375_991084067928_147544040_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1390495_991083084898_356813630_n.jpg

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1383753_991083369328_1460795173_n.jpg

ridgerunner97
11-12-2013, 10:03 PM
https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1452134_4904166580389_1514856494_n.jpg

gonecheenin
11-12-2013, 11:22 PM
Lookin good!

ridgerunner97
11-26-2013, 08:53 PM
Thanks Jay! I hope to get out to a ride and hit the trails with you again. Watching you run the YJ is a good time!

Deadman 94 xj
01-13-2014, 10:08 AM
I never thought I'd see the day you fixed those rockers! Looks great Jon. Can't wait to get out again.

ridgerunner97
08-31-2014, 06:01 PM
Well, time for an update. I traded my XJ off on another Jeep. The new owner will take very good care of it, and finish it into the perfect rig it should have been, when it's done i'll update a pic into this thread to offer closure to what I shouldn't have been lazy and done all along. I have changed directions, may god have mercy on my soul hehe new thread /and so it begins!!!

ridgerunner97
01-04-2017, 09:31 PM
Long ass story but I got my wagon back. I should have never traded it to begin with but being in the YJ buggy was a blast, I'll have another buggy one of these days just built a lot differently.

Now what everyone wants to see, the wonder wagon is back and better than ever...

https://scontent.fagc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15825865_10154282814641229_5490954882565640260_n.j pg?oh=fa348e08a19c9f62f2304009a2ac692a&oe=58D93D53

tow hook
01-05-2017, 04:10 PM
Long ass story but I got my wagon back. I should have never traded it to begin with but being in the YJ buggy was a blast, I'll have another buggy one of these days just built a lot differently.

Now what everyone wants to see, the wonder wagon is back and better than ever...

https://scontent.fagc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/15825865_10154282814641229_5490954882565640260_n.j pg?oh=fa348e08a19c9f62f2304009a2ac692a&oe=58D93D53

about time

The_War_Wagon
01-05-2017, 08:34 PM
No truer love, than your FIRST love. :icon_syda:

ridgerunner97
07-24-2022, 10:17 PM
So final closure on this thread, wheeled every black trail and a red or two at Rausch and AOAA with the XJ on 35s. Worked perfectly. Snagged a 78 CJ7 to build for my girlfriend a while back, wasn't using the XJ at all anymore and decided to get rid of her. Had more rot in her than was t be dealt with so sent her down the road to someone in Altoona. It was a fun 11 or 12yrs with it.

DMG
07-25-2022, 11:32 AM
Nice. Better update your sig. and sell me your spare front shafts.

RoelandVerhoeven
03-26-2023, 08:48 AM
It sounds like you had a great time wheeling your XJ on 35s at Rausch and AOAA, and it's always exciting to add a new project to the garage like the 78 CJ7 for your girlfriend. It's understandable that after 11 or 12 years with the XJ, it was time to move on, especially if it had significant rust issues that needed to be addressed. I'm glad to hear that you were able to find a new owner for the XJ and hopefully, it will continue to bring joy to its new owner.