PDA

View Full Version : Swapping Waggy 44's into my XJ



XJ_Sean
05-07-2011, 10:03 AM
so im about midway through my build, at the beginning of this winter i purchased a set of grand wagoneer axles. the front 44 and the rear was an AMC20, a few weeks later i found a waggy 44 rear for $150 and decided to go for it even though the FSJ AMC20 is not a bad axle by any means. just wanted a set of 44's i guess.

I do have a good bit of photos but i am having a little trouble figureing out how to post them on here. i read the FAQ section and still not very helpful

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1423354429698.59066.1407856194#!/photo.php?fbid=1793837331539&set=a.1423354429698.59066.1407856194&type=1&theater

88wd21
05-07-2011, 10:44 AM
try saving them to photobucket and copy/pasting the [img] codes into your posts. What I do anytime I want to post a pic anywhere. Works good and keeps space freed up on the site

XJ_Sean
05-07-2011, 10:50 AM
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/168494_1793837331539_1407856194_2008727_4324669_n. jpg
- here is what i started with
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/168101_1793835971505_1407856194_2008726_1753559_n. jpg

XJ_Sean
05-07-2011, 11:01 AM
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/208214_1948447356693_1407856194_2260230_8024854_n. jpg
So i bought some parts
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/216339_1948462157063_1407856194_2260268_4658773_n. jpg
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/156246_1716830766423_1407856194_1839037_7039923_n. jpg
then i bought some "other supplies"
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/229609_1994185980130_1407856194_2323678_4598592_n. jpg
Diff cover is RuffStuff made in America
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/223154_1996000745498_1407856194_2326172_7661296_n. jpg
Truss from T&T customs, very good customer service
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184361_1860410195819_1407856194_2130119_7972616_n. jpg

XJ_Sean
05-07-2011, 11:12 AM
I started with the front axle, stripping it down, cleaning it up and starting to fit the truss and the LCA mounts up.

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/227658_1991955804377_1407856194_2320641_2383035_n. jpg
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/229450_1991983405067_1407856194_2320689_3924735_n. jpg
I also cleaned up and painted the knuckles, then pressed new upper and lower ball joints in.
Lowers and Moog, advanced auto couldnt find me the correct uppers in moog for some reason so i went next door and uppers are AutoZone's "gold" idk they are pretty beefy and lifetime gaurentee. moogs were $56.00 each and the autozone's were $44.00 each
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/230854_1991964724600_1407856194_2320649_3480301_n. jpg

XJ_Sean
05-07-2011, 11:16 AM
the "plan" Right now is to do Dana ring and pinion sets in a 4.88:1 and Detroit Soft Lockers front and rear, but i have been kicking around the idea of putting a spool in the rear... maybe 8-)

joe_and_jeep
05-07-2011, 06:27 PM
Ditch the Brute Force u-joints, they absolutely suck. A stock D44 shaft isn't any stronger than a D30 and a Brute Force is weaker than a 44 shaft. If u want to go full.spool I have one I'd sell.

jeepxj3
05-07-2011, 07:52 PM
Ditch the Brute Force u-joints, they absolutely suck. A stock D44 shaft isn't any stronger than a D30 and a Brute Force is weaker than a 44 shaft. If u want to go full.spool I have one I'd sell.

I 2nd the brute force joints being garbage, keep them as trail spares, dont rely on them for off road use.

XJchris98
05-07-2011, 09:10 PM
I like the orange spray paint on the knuckles, makes them look alot like the REID ones.


haha...

XJ_Sean
05-07-2011, 10:12 PM
yea the universals that were in the shafts were shot and i just wanted to throw some cheap universals in to get me rolling asap, once i save some money up the plan is to do alloy shafts and rebuildable universals

--and joe, yes i would be interested in the spool you have for sale, will it fit in the waggy 44, if so what brand is it and what are you looking to get for it?

ridgerunner97
05-07-2011, 10:25 PM
I like the build so far, its looking good.

XJ_Sean
05-08-2011, 08:47 AM
i got my stainless steel braided brake lines and extended bump stops :-)
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/227815_2013259616959_1407856194_2350024_644789_n.j pg
-
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/222129_2013258896941_1407856194_2350022_1407649_n. jpg

XJ_Sean
05-08-2011, 08:53 AM
thanks ridgerunner!, Soo an issue i am running into right now, and its a small dumb issue is the breather on the front axle, the truss covers it , now there is a small access hole on the side but i am going to have a hell of a time getting in there with any kind of hose clamp or even zip tie
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/230820_2013258496931_1407856194_2350020_2883200_n. jpg
-
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/229450_1991983405067_1407856194_2320689_3924735_n. jpg

XJ_Sean
05-08-2011, 08:57 AM
I like the orange spray paint on the knuckles, makes them look alot like the REID ones.


haha...

LOL yes my buddies gave me shit for that already too, actually i am spraying most of the bolt on's orange and gonna shoot the axles silver

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/221890_2013258296926_1407856194_2350019_60239_n.jp g

ridgerunner97
05-08-2011, 11:28 AM
You could always plug that breather hole and rill another one really. But it looks like that breather has a barbed fitting on it so you could probably just shove a tight fitting hose on it and call it good i'd imagine.

john00TJ
05-08-2011, 01:14 PM
put your breather hose on ,then feed the threw the truss an forget about it ..

joe_and_jeep
05-08-2011, 09:43 PM
Fancy paint colors... Wal-Mart Color Palace gloss black. 98 cents a can and call it good lol...

XJ_Sean
05-09-2011, 10:51 AM
Ive worked in a body shop all my life, walmart spray paint just aint my style, even though the first time out itll get destroyed lol its still gotta look like good.

"Different strokes for different folks"

gonecheenin
05-09-2011, 01:17 PM
you sure they couldn't find the right uppers in MOOG? The MOOG problem solver D44 upper balljoints look a little different than the ones you installed because MOOG came up with a way to grease the upper balljoint without removing the shaft - I won't run ANY other upper D44 balljoint from a parts store!!!!!


As for the Brute Force joints - listen to what their saying. Their not telling you to go alloys right away, their telling you to avoid that specific brand. Get some Precision 371's for it instead, or even better, pick up a set of Alloy USA X joints (their only 15 bucks more a joint than parts store joints and their a very nice stock style upgrade!)

Deadman 94 xj
05-09-2011, 01:35 PM
^^Agreed except the precision 371's are craptastic too. What's wrong with good old spicer joints until he can get the alloy usa or some other upgrade.

I agree with the brute force joints being bad, just to further press the issue ;). If you're locked up front, I'd put money on them not lasting the first trip out. Just my expereince.

Super Scout
05-09-2011, 02:11 PM
I like the color scheme on the axles. Plus it makes it A LOT easier to spot a leak lol.

XJchris98
05-09-2011, 02:29 PM
you sure they couldn't find the right uppers in MOOG? The MOOG problem solver D44 upper balljoints look a little different than the ones you installed because MOOG came up with a way to grease the upper balljoint without removing the shaft - I won't run ANY other upper D44 balljoint from a parts store!!!!!


Do you have any experience with the Spicer balljoints? I found a decent supplier for D44 parts that has rebuild "combos" that pretty much include everything I need to rebuild my HP44 at a good price. I would assume the Spicer ones are just as good as the MOOG ones, but this is my first go around with sourcing 44 parts.

XJ_Sean
05-12-2011, 03:09 PM
Thank you guys for the input, i am gonna rum them for right now and plan to swap in the moog uppers maybe when i swap in the new shafts, there is a small chance i will have the money for shafts and good universals before i do the install. hopefully and i will just keep these for spares.

The other question i have for you guys...... should i run a front sway bar or not , my XJ is not a daily driver but i drive it everywhere it goes. no trailering.... i already ditched the rear sway bar, and i do have the quick disconnects, but i think i might not even weld the sway bar mounts on the new axle......i dunno

gonecheenin
05-12-2011, 04:09 PM
^^Agreed except the precision 371's are craptastic too. What's wrong with good old spicer joints until he can get the alloy usa or some other upgrade.

I had bad luck with the Spicer 760's in my Bluggy AND my Jeep's D44 (Needle bearings were huge and they kept crushing allowing the joint to cock cracking the caps), the Precision 371's (I imagine the top shelf Spicer 297's woulda been equivalant) are the only parts store joints I could find that held up decently before I went with the full circle clipped Alloy X joints in my street Jeep's D30 and the Yukon Super Joints (Soon to be Nitro Excaliburs) in my big Jeep's Alloyed D44.

Incidently; I woulda still considered running the Spicer 760's if I had found a good source for caps with bushings pressed in them to eliminate the needle bearings - OR if Spicer had seen the error in their ways and redesigned the joint to use nice small needle bearings like Precision does.


Do you have any experience with the Spicer balljoints? I found a decent supplier for D44 parts that has rebuild "combos" that pretty much include everything I need to rebuild my HP44 at a good price. I would assume the Spicer ones are just as good as the MOOG ones, but this is my first go around with sourcing 44 parts.

Quality & strength wise I'd imagine the Spicer ball joints are right on par with the MOOG's. The reason I'll only run MOOG is because of the belled joint bottom shown below. This design allows an angled grease fitting to be installed solving the problem of bad upper ball joints on 44's due to them not seeing grease ever again after installation since you can only grease the flat bottom ones by pulling the shafts back out.

http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/images/apw_products/images/moog/K8194T.jpg?T9DVpR2


And if you install new balljoints in a 44, make SURE you adjust the threaded upper ball joint collar per instructions or the balljoints won't share the stress & will wear out prematurely!

Check out www.rockauto.com (http://www.rockauto.com) for good prices on MOOG (and just about any other parts your looking for!!!)



The other question i have for you guys...... should i run a front sway bar or not , my XJ is not a daily driver but i drive it everywhere it goes. no trailering.... i already ditched the rear sway bar, and i do have the quick disconnects, but i think i might not even weld the sway bar mounts on the new axle......i dunno

You can get use to running around without a sway bar even with coils, but if you do ANY spirited driving or plan to get it inspected legally I'd leave the sway bar on and just purchase a nice set of JKS or Rubicon Express disconnects for it (even if you just leave it on the disconnect perchs most of the time)

Heck, I even still have the sway bar on my street YJ just for legality reasons, and a lifted leaf sprung rig definitely doesn't need a sway bar anymore IMHO. (It's been on the disconnect perchs so long now their probably stuck to it! LOL)

XJ_Sean
05-13-2011, 08:18 AM
[QUOTE=gonecheenin;250068]
Incidently; I woulda still considered running the Spicer 760's if I had found a good source for caps with bushings pressed in them to eliminate the needle bearings -

Yes , agreed , but all of these style u joints seem to be BIG $$$ , but i guess you pay for what ya get......

Quality & strength wise I'd imagine the Spicer ball joints are right on par with the MOOG's. The reason I'll only run MOOG is because of the belled joint bottom shown below. This design allows an angled grease fitting to be installed solving the problem of bad upper ball joints on 44's due to them not seeing grease ever again after installation since you can only grease the flat bottom ones by pulling the shafts back out.

http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/images/apw_products/images/moog/K8194T.jpg?T9DVpR2


^^^^^ wow didnt even think about that, probably gonna get the moog uppers, i really dont wanna pull shafts to grease the upper

XJ_Sean
05-13-2011, 08:28 AM
So i got all my angles and measurements finalized.
As per T&T's instructions i have the truss set 5 degrees forward of the top of the knuckle.

-also with the waggy 44 just under 2.5" of the diff housing (factory cast leaf spring perch) on the drivers side had to be removed for the LCA mount on that side.

Small, kinda dumb note: while cutting the cast metal away and being sure not to cut into the axle tubes....the sparks from a cut-off wheel on cast are dull orange, the second you start to cut axle tube the sparks turn bright white....i took my time and it actually wasnt that bad.
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/228502_2025487322644_1407856194_2365197_3472114_n. jpg
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/229493_2025490082713_1407856194_2365201_1612521_n. jpg

1999tjsport
05-14-2011, 04:51 PM
its about time you build the old girl up

gonecheenin
05-15-2011, 08:34 AM
I dig that T&T stuff.

cityslicker
05-26-2011, 12:41 PM
I love this.. I want this,,,, this is wonderful.,

dakota5605
05-26-2011, 12:50 PM
Hey, I'd scrap the XJ and go for a bright orange TJ with a 4.5" lift, that way there would be one less vehicle in the driveway and I would get the garage back

XJ_Sean
05-27-2011, 10:34 AM
Well, I bought a Yukon Spool for the rear........Hope I dont regret spooling the rear... 1 things for sure, both rear wheels are gonna spin , all the time :-)

jim91303
05-27-2011, 12:55 PM
as a daily driver ... you will probably regret the full spool. tire wear and in the winter mostly .. the back end will be loose. when i build my 93 xj DD i am going with a assie locker front and rear.

gonecheenin
05-27-2011, 01:35 PM
as a daily driver ... you will probably regret the full spool. tire wear and in the winter mostly .. the back end will be loose. when i build my 93 xj DD i am going with a assie locker front and rear.

They also handle like garbage on the street, takes all the fun outta driving it anywhere but in the dirt or dead straight!

XJ_Sean
05-27-2011, 03:21 PM
Yea, Agreed, wont be fun on the streets at all, but it is far from a daily driver, like i said i do drive it to most of the local trails...and the plan eventually is to buy a trailer.. i will just have to tough it out til then...

tjblair
05-27-2011, 03:36 PM
as a daily driver ... you will probably regret the full spool. tire wear and in the winter mostly .. the back end will be loose. when i build my 93 xj DD i am going with a assie locker front and rear.

An aussie locker will be just as "loose" in the winter. It is locked up just like a spool when ever you are in the gas. only difference is it will ratchet around turns so long as your not in the throttle, It will not ratchet if powering through turns.

XJ_Sean
05-31-2011, 10:06 PM
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/250989_2064246851608_1407856194_2412566_1048229_n. jpg:gear_lol2::gear_lol2::gear_lol2::gear_lol2::ge ar_lol2::gear_lol2:

jim91303
06-06-2011, 03:26 AM
An aussie locker will be just as "loose" in the winter. It is locked up just like a spool when ever you are in the gas. only difference is it will ratchet around turns so long as your not in the throttle, It will not ratchet if powering through turns.

i personaly dont mind the looseness in the winter ... lol, i like power sliding around turns ... it scares the crap out of the ol lady!

cityslicker
06-06-2011, 12:26 PM
i personaly dont mind the looseness in the winter ... lol, i like power sliding around turns ... it scares the crap out of the ol lady!

Halleluiah!!

XJ_Sean
07-02-2011, 10:25 AM
Got my Gears!!! 4.88:1 Yukon Gears http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/261767_2186069537099_1407856194_2532393_7173552_n. jpg

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/270397_2186072497173_1407856194_2532404_2490259_n. jpg

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/269932_2186075337244_1407856194_2532410_2920295_n. jpg

Sloth_Fratelli
07-02-2011, 07:17 PM
tom woods gold cap u-joints have done good by me

*edit* diddnt see there was a page 2 lol *edit*

XJ_Sean
07-11-2011, 08:06 AM
Well...... Time to fire up the sawzall.... I got 37x12.50 MTR's

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/270722_2201524323459_1407856194_2555561_2137636_n. jpg

XJ_Sean
08-27-2011, 10:19 PM
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/307213_2332446196424_1407856194_2737902_4773271_n. jpg

Cleaned out the garage today, the XJ is goin in and getting torn down tomorrow ...

XJ_Sean
08-27-2011, 10:25 PM
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/313113_2330103537859_1407856194_2734537_6837733_n. jpg

Ordered my wheels and DIY BeadLocks.... Cant wait for them to get here...

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/320030_147406478679725_100002311211609_253794_1857 604_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=250633&id=100002311211609)

DIY Star's (just a picture from their website) and Pro Comp Series 52 Steelies

Sycotik Skier
08-28-2011, 10:21 PM
I like the way those look

DixieJeeper
08-31-2011, 11:55 PM
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/307213_2332446196424_1407856194_2737902_4773271_n. jpg

Cleaned out the garage today, the XJ is goin in and getting torn down tomorrow ...

I thought I was the only one whose driveway looked like sanford and sons! looking good.. Spools are great for the strip or the trail. even driving them a short distance to local trails is major suckage... but I understand where you are going.. just landed me a FREE trailer a month ago off of CL (18ft).. so keep looking even if you don't have the cash... I have $500 tied up in mine and thats new tires mainly, paint and wiring.

XJ_Sean
09-01-2011, 03:56 PM
I thought I was the only one whose driveway looked like sanford and sons! looking good.. Spools are great for the strip or the trail. even driving them a short distance to local trails is major suckage... but I understand where you are going.. just landed me a FREE trailer a month ago off of CL (18ft).. so keep looking even if you don't have the cash... I have $500 tied up in mine and thats new tires mainly, paint and wiring.

Thanks for the sanford and sons compliment LOL... and yea that is the plan, keepin an eye on craigslist for a nice rebuildable trailer.... yours sounds pretty decent!! With any luck by spring thaw i will be ready to roll out all professional lookin (jeep and trailer)

dakota5605
09-01-2011, 04:29 PM
Thanks for the sanford and sons compliment LOL... and yea that is the plan, keepin an eye on craigslist for a nice rebuildable trailer.... yours sounds pretty decent!! With any luck by spring thaw i will be ready to roll out all professional lookin (jeep and trailer)

Spring Thaw????????? What about the other jeep project in the family

john00TJ
09-01-2011, 04:59 PM
lets see some damn progress

XJ_Sean
09-06-2011, 04:34 PM
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293566_2359137623693_1407856194_2775415_1761432_n. jpg
....Slow Progress

DuffsTJ
09-13-2011, 10:45 PM
Get movin!

XJ_Sean
11-24-2011, 10:06 PM
So its been a little while since ive done any updating on here. i have the next week off of work so im hoping to make some decent progress.

-Here is what ive done recently, And i know it has nothing to do with my (Axle Swap thread Title) but youguys may wanna see it.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/390875_2592618260563_1407856194_2970446_588510521_ n.jpg
Crew Cab Comanche
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296356_2592444656223_1407856194_2970149_1480127939 _n.jpg always wear Proper Protective Equiptment (like aviators for saftey glasses)
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/299953_2593136793526_1407856194_2970931_1915288845 _n.jpg
After cutting the hatch in half
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/308731_2624230850858_1407856194_2987508_919283892_ n.jpg
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/383722_2629326338242_1407856194_2990862_71995795_n .jpg
And some of the sheet metal work, I built a tube steel frame inside the sheetmetal bulkhead. ill have more pictures of that soon.

john00TJ
11-26-2011, 12:27 PM
these pictures are soo last week ...get moving

joe_and_jeep
11-26-2011, 02:00 PM
Keeping the lift at 6"? I skimmed thru... lol. I'm running 38.5s on 4.5" and trimming. No bumpstops, but I'm adding some.

XJ_Sean
11-27-2011, 08:23 PM
yea ill probably keep it at 6, i got extended poly bump stops. the only way ill lower it back down is if i save up for coilovers for the front, then id do 4.5.

RalphDogg
11-27-2011, 10:02 PM
so where is all of the welding pics? it looks like a lot of iron that needs mated together.

XJ_Sean
11-28-2011, 08:29 PM
Twister Steel and Sex Appeal ...... lol
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/377448_2729163114099_1407856194_3032448_1695210981 _n.jpg
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/374617_2729160194026_1407856194_3032446_833087555_ n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/385920_2729157713964_1407856194_3032444_80158855_n .jpg

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387497_2729155233902_1407856194_3032443_57711910_n .jpg

weld weld weld all day long... weld weld weld while i sing this song :nod:

XJ_Sean
12-01-2011, 06:50 PM
bed rail is about fab'd up
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/376470_2741371499301_1407856194_3036885_1192441697 _n.jpg

XJ_Sean
12-01-2011, 06:53 PM
I also purchased my Detroit soft Locker for the front, and (2) master install kits. this week. time to slam it all together.

cityslicker
12-03-2011, 09:25 PM
I always wanted to do that, chop the back end.. I read a build thread on Pirate, that a guy chopped the back and made it removable, it's ****ing sick.. Yours is going to be real cool man. I love the way xjs look with the trunk chopped out. you going to build like a cover for the back or leave it open like a picup? I think the cover would be tight, with a place to mount the spare right there... nice build though man. real cool .

Krod
12-03-2011, 11:46 PM
Way to have the balls required to cut off the back of a perfectly functional vehicle. Thumbs up bud. :nod:

joe_and_jeep
12-04-2011, 10:41 AM
Your gonna want to do some reinforcing in the rear. I know when I did mine it flexed a lot. I just did some quick reinforments and it fixed the flexing but you can tell it definately stresses the areas I reinforced.

XJ_Sean
12-06-2011, 12:30 AM
Thank You guys ! its coming along nicely but its a heck of alot more metal work than i thought i would be, lol

Anyways i plan to exocage the whole thing, but i also fabbed up some supports inside the bulkhead behind the back seat. (pictured below)
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/381085_2780763564078_1407856194_3052841_1679400489 _n.jpg

XJ_Sean
12-10-2011, 10:36 PM
finished a little of the sheet metal work on the right side today, Also got the gears and lockers in the axles, and built a little truss for the rear axle...
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/390186_2816745943615_1407856194_3065408_21796245_n .jpg

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/393723_2815150543731_1407856194_3064610_103043748_ n.jpg
rear axle with the Yukon Spool and my homemade truss :)
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/387383_2808182609537_1407856194_3061798_257638343_ n.jpg
Nice contact patch
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/388225_2808145968621_1407856194_3061797_1179373070 _n.jpg
Detroit Locker and 4.88:1 Yukon ring and pinion
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387664_2815155863864_1407856194_3064614_571609541_ n.jpg
then i got both axles in primer, ready for paint!!
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/383843_2815155303850_1407856194_3064613_212619565_ n.jpg

XJ_Sean
12-21-2011, 04:44 PM
where does everyone get their tubing for roll cage, ie: 1 5/8 .120 wall DOM ? Especially in or near westmorland county

thanks guys and Have a Merry Christmas!

Super Scout
12-21-2011, 04:55 PM
I am not certain but you could try giving multi metals a call. They are off 66 by delmont.

BUZZINHALFDOZZEN
12-21-2011, 05:50 PM
Try Jeanette steel too

XJ_Sean
12-23-2011, 10:00 AM
Cool, Thanks Scout, Thanks Buzz

DuffsTJ
12-23-2011, 02:50 PM
Call Wheaton and sons, they should give you a good deal.

john00TJ
12-23-2011, 04:29 PM
Call Wheaton and sons, they should give you a good deal.

id never use them ..their prices are too cheap ,the always have stuff on stock an the dude that runs that place is way to nice an eager to help ..**** them

XJ_Sean
12-27-2011, 09:42 AM
lol

John,
Lets buy some tubing soon! i need 60 or so feet to start with. lets place an order

XJ_Sean
12-30-2011, 12:13 PM
commanchero :nod:

XJ_Sean
01-25-2012, 10:17 PM
What can i say, im a picture kinda guy.... anyways my drop trac bar mount and adjustable trac bar showed up from Rusty's Offroad :nod: and i bought myself what is going to end up being a traction bar for the rear axle (tractor supply) so looks like i have somemore brackets to make.
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/406457_3093026530457_1407856194_3208451_1452973733 _n.jpg

I also did a little more welding on the sheetmetal in the rear, almost complete and ready for bodywork and paint....
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/394621_3069359058785_1407856194_3195884_1486578454 _n.jpg
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/404808_3068331153088_1407856194_3195490_337395401_ n.jpg

XJ_Sean
01-25-2012, 10:20 PM
ohh yea... and this little goodie showed up in the mail too....VR10,000
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/394468_2988959088836_1407856194_3160382_1733624537 _n.jpg

XJ_Sean
02-19-2012, 08:22 PM
So i got the old front axle out, and the new one almost is in..........after getting the D44 in, i think im going to need the Rough Country control arm drop bracket.
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/421570_3348075466521_87669757_n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/421870_3356135308012_1407856194_3311386_421573546_ n.jpg

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/396226_3356385394264_1407856194_3311458_2056572235 _n.jpg http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/432015_3357158373588_1407856194_3311719_343498808_ n.jpg

XJ_Sean
02-28-2012, 12:04 AM
Got the rear 44 in! drive shaft angle is not bad at all, fabbin up a double sheer traction bar and shackle setup for it next weekend
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/417056_3406051115876_1407856194_3333975_358160233_ n.jpg

XJ_Sean
03-05-2012, 01:08 AM
well like i said, i fabbed up a traction bar today. its comprised of some spare parts i had laying around. i sleeved the butt weld on the main tube with solid core stock. and did some plug welds to keep the sleeve in place. i also made the shackle out of some flat stock and grade 8 collars i had. pretty simple design, should work well. let me know what ya guys think so far! any and all feedback is appreciated!
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/420233_3456708542280_1407856194_3353933_677911263_ n.jpg
i amgoing to rework the upper shackle mount so it is 'double sheer' and also still need to make some double sheer mounts for the upper and lower on the axle.
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/427759_3457075791461_1407856194_3354512_689144892_ n.jpg

XJ_Sean
03-16-2012, 12:26 AM
got my double sheer upper and lower traction bar mounts fabbed up and stuck on tonight.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/423105_3540874326372_1407856194_3385220_1726403742 _n.jpg

Azzy
03-16-2012, 08:36 AM
Is that just to counter any axle wrap that would happen from the change in gearing? Im likeing the build!

80glasscj
03-16-2012, 12:10 PM
got my double sheer upper and lower traction bar mounts fabbed up and stuck on tonight.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/423105_3540874326372_1407856194_3385220_1726403742 _n.jpg

I would rethink that mount underneath the axle. Looks like it will drag over a lot of stuff, and get you hung up. Just my opinion

80glasscj
03-16-2012, 12:12 PM
got my double sheer upper and lower traction bar mounts fabbed up and stuck on tonight.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/423105_3540874326372_1407856194_3385220_1726403742 _n.jpg

I would rethink that mount underneath the axle. Looks like it would get hung up on a lot of stuff. Just my opinion.

joshs1ofakindxj
03-16-2012, 12:27 PM
I would just round a few edges on the bracket. Backing up it will dick you, but who backs up? Going forward the link will just slide over things.

XJ_Sean
03-16-2012, 02:39 PM
AZZY, yes cause of the gearing, being spooled, big tires and lift blocks. kind of a recipe for axle wrap lol. but yea i'll grind the lower down a little. make it more streamline

XJ_Sean
03-22-2012, 07:34 PM
ok Question: what does everyone prefer as far as DIY roll on bedliners go? ie: herculiner, Dupont, ect?????

im going to be finishing up the sheet metal work inside the bed this weekend and i want to seal it up with some bedliner

ridgerunner97
03-22-2012, 09:32 PM
We've been using the Bed Armor with Kevlar at work on our equipment floor boards and it's been holding up GREAT.

XJ_Sean
03-25-2012, 10:38 PM
finished up some of the sheetmetal work in the bed, finally starting to look like a bed!!!! a little more Welding & Grinding and i will seam seal everything then bedliner it.
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/529094_3605360298481_1407856194_3416798_1113010598 _n.jpg
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/545566_3605357338407_1407856194_3416795_1192803426 _n.jpg
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/539771_3605355058350_1407856194_3416792_1441811791 _n.jpg

XJ_Sean
03-27-2012, 09:49 PM
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/528902_3620484236570_1407856194_3425673_1229879131 _n.jpg

jim91303
03-28-2012, 01:07 PM
where does everyone get their tubing for roll cage, ie: 1 5/8 .120 wall DOM ? Especially in or near westmorland county

thanks guys and Have a Merry Christmas!

not sure of westmoreland but there is a shop 2 mile down the road from me .... choice metals .... 724.592.6125 i just picked up a 22' stick if 1.75 .120 wall for about $120
its going for around $6.25 a foot. they have to order it they dont have it in stock but usually in next day.

jim91303
03-28-2012, 01:15 PM
looking good sean. you better hurry up and finish so you can take it to rock run next time i go !
my xj just went back in the shop too ! when your done you can chop mine ! lol

LOOKS GOOD !

XJ_Sean
03-28-2012, 08:49 PM
Thanks Jim, Yea we all gotta do rock run again! that was a blast...

jim91303
04-01-2012, 02:40 PM
I would definately go with moog joints.

As for the breather..... Extend it. Take a peice of stainless steel brake line that will slide over it and and braze it in place or use JB weld to attach it. Then double flair the end and there you go! Slide hose on and clamp it

XJ_Sean
04-02-2012, 02:01 PM
Got the rear disc brake conversion just about done. got Stainless steel braided hose to go to the divider block, then regular brake line and hose to run out to each caliper. still need to run the tubing, but the hard work is done. It was a lot of fitting,tacking,testing, and adjusting but all in all it wasnt a bad conversion and only cost about $150.00 in parts :)
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/564700_3657099071918_1407856194_3442982_2041945815 _n.jpg
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/527037_3657104832062_1407856194_3442983_1301809753 _n.jpg

Azzy
04-02-2012, 03:52 PM
Monstaliner seems to always be running some sort of sale, picked up a few gallons of their chassisaver product on black friday for both our jeeps.

Another quicky question, why blocks instead of shackles or taller leafs?

XJ_Sean
04-02-2012, 04:41 PM
i have 1.5" shackles and 4" RC springs already on it, I guess lift blocks because of cost. I know people in the offroad cummunity frown on blocks, I have never had a problem with them (if done right and not to huge) .. with the traction bar in place i am really hoping to not have issues. Im hoping for minimal trimming on 37" tires so i definitely needed the height.

I guess to answer your question directly , my reason is cost... lol my build is over budget and im running out of the green stuff quicker than i make it :)

Azzy
04-02-2012, 11:58 PM
Im familiar with that :)

XJ_Sean
04-06-2012, 09:28 AM
rear disc are done! Plumbed in and all. left upper and lower shockmounts done. right ones i'll do today
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/544812_3679374108780_1407856194_3451899_1897879990 _n.jpg

XJ_Sean
04-06-2012, 09:39 AM
question time again !?!?!? Has anyone "deleted" their ABS system in their cherokee or other jeep? Is it as simple as disconnnecting it off of the master cylinder and running some new brake line? also i heard that i may need a proportioning valve now that i switched from drums to disc's in the rear? and knowledge and info would be greatly appreciated. thanks guys!

1999tjsport
04-06-2012, 10:14 AM
i know drum brake valves hold 10psi on the piston when your foots off the pedal to offset the springs, a disk brake valve holds 2psi on the piston, not that it would make enough of a difference for your pads to wear prematurely from rubbing, as far as proportioning valves everything i've found says yes swap it out but wont make a huge diffrence

ridgerunner97
04-06-2012, 09:38 PM
Pull the fuse, abs pump or module whatever it is went bad in our 96 dodge, just yanked the fuse and no abs now, left everything else alone.

XJ_Sean
04-07-2012, 10:23 PM
got the rear tires mounted up today, she's sittin tall!
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/554458_3690008454632_1407856194_3457989_301621647_ n.jpg

Also fabbed up a stinger bumper out of some left over tube.
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/522686_3691870821190_1407856194_3459185_100069055_ n.jpg
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/528469_3692032985244_1407856194_3459286_873319948_ n.jpg

XJ_Sean
04-23-2012, 08:58 AM
BedLiner Done, Kinda thin.... i think im gonna buy another quart and do a second coat.
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/522777_3813151893141_1407856194_3506918_951389054_ n.jpg

I also think i made my stinger a little too big. I'm debating cutting it down a little, IDK yet
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/536822_3750488006583_1407856194_3489049_719907446_ n.jpg

XJ_Sean
05-02-2012, 09:19 AM
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/544845_3894246200448_1407856194_3542430_73810825_n .jpg
the rear is completely buttoned up. I welded up a quick and simple diff gaurd out of some solid core stock. turned out OK

XJ_Sean
05-04-2012, 04:27 PM
got my new shocks,
made some lower shock mounts ,
gotta make some sort of adjustable base for the bump stops to land on.
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/543267_3930904516883_1407856194_3548461_915084341_ n.jpg

john00TJ
05-04-2012, 07:51 PM
you need to clean up that mess ..lol..looks good dude

ridgerunner97
05-04-2012, 09:46 PM
Hockey pucks a bolt and some rtv work very well for bumpstop extensions. Did that on my XJ

dakota5605
05-07-2012, 07:49 AM
you need to clean up that mess ..lol..looks good dude

I agree with John, "you need to clean up that mess" and make room for the next project!!! Can't wait to see the finished product out on the trail!!!!

XJ_Sean
05-07-2012, 08:03 AM
Hockey pucks a bolt and some rtv work very well for bumpstop extensions. Did that on my XJ

Awesome idea, Thanks Dude!!!

XJ_Sean
05-13-2012, 10:18 PM
Moved under its own power today!! very exciting. Still alot of things to do but this is definitely a big step in the right direction!
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/540447_3997435140107_1407856194_3580534_1018950782 _n.jpg

PaMountianbiker
05-13-2012, 10:28 PM
Looks fricking awsome !!!!!

cityslicker
05-14-2012, 10:10 AM
I love the stance on that man... looks unstoppable.. though I can see your tires eating your fenders...

XJ_Sean
05-20-2012, 04:19 PM
Tied up alot of loose ends, took it for a spin today, Goes down the road straight and smooth at 65mph. 4wd and everything seems to work well... next weekend ill do a good shake down run to crick hills.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/538898_4042538147654_1407856194_3601630_842762906_ n.jpg
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/574754_4042537307633_1407856194_3601629_1746302684 _n.jpg
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/380201_4042536427611_1407856194_3601628_1742553072 _n.jpg

XJ_Sean
05-20-2012, 04:23 PM
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/540371_4043137762644_1407856194_3602068_891177407_ n.jpg
my little brothers xj and my dads CJs
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/317939_4043143002775_1407856194_3602069_672926510_ n.jpg
Like A Boss ^

XJ_Sean
05-26-2012, 12:09 AM
Took it for some mild wheelin tonight, man do I love this jeep!!!!
Crawled like it is it's Job! Totally Happy with everything so far!

XJ_Sean
05-29-2012, 10:28 AM
Well i took the jeep out yesterday and really put it through its paces. did really well for as hard as i was on it.

only major problem was i got bouncing on a pretty big rock and snapped my traction bar in half (my welds didnt break :038: the bar itself snapped)
and then at the end of the day i got off camber and the rear driveshaft pulled out, when it pulled out it bound up on the body and snapped the rear universal straps. :disgust:

so im going to completely sleeve the traction bar with solid core stock, and as for the rear drive shaft, i ordered the SYE Kit from rustys that comes with the tom woods drive shaft.....


finding the weak points 1 snap at a time

gonecheenin
05-29-2012, 08:20 PM
only major problem was i got bouncing on a pretty big rock and snapped my traction bar in half (my welds didnt break :038: the bar itself snapped)
and then at the end of the day i got off camber and the rear driveshaft pulled out, when it pulled out it bound up on the body and snapped the rear universal straps. :disgust:

so im going to completely sleeve the traction bar with solid core stock, and as for the rear drive shaft, i ordered the SYE Kit from rustys that comes with the tom woods drive shaft.....


finding the weak points 1 snap at a time

If you don't mind, What was your traction bar originally made out of?

I'm about to extend mine (to move my instant center forward for less anti-squat) & plan to use .250 wall DOM approx 48" long with a triangular contact point @ 35"s.

This is on my red YJ too, so I'm going to be VERY violent on this thing with 38.5x15.50 Boggers.

XJ_Sean
05-29-2012, 10:11 PM
I made it out of some scrap tube I had laying around, thinner than I woulda preferred, I'm not a 100% sure of its deminsions but I believe it's .120 wall dom.

My intentions are to sleeve the whole thing with solid core stock and plug weld along it. If that doesnt work I'll probably rebuild it out of some seriously thick tube, I was amazed at how much stress those things see. My buddy John00TJ actually blew his traction bar in half in a similar manner about a month ago,, they take a beating

XJ_Sean
05-29-2012, 10:16 PM
Can I ask you a question, is a longer traction bar better? I probably have room that I could extend my front upper mount forward and lengthen my traction bar.

ridgerunner97
05-29-2012, 11:23 PM
^ Most XJ's running traction bars that i've seen have mounted the front point of the bar to the rear of the transmission crossmember or bellypan if they are running a longarm setup. Do some hunting in the modified tech section of NAXJA, a good many of the guys in the NAC it seems have larger XJ's with traction bars and other homeade suspension goody's. I plan to run one attached to the clayton's crossmember of the 3 link. I'm hoping I can get by for a little while without wrapping the springs up until I have the time to do it.

john00TJ
05-30-2012, 09:51 PM
mine was 1.5x.120 wall DOM an it snapped ..ill have to say when it snapped i was beating on the jeep soo hard that something was going to break an it ended up being the traction bar ..i weld in a piece of solid round stock an plug welds down the shaft an havent had another issued ..

gonecheenin
06-01-2012, 06:58 PM
Hmm - sounds like mine done how I plan could definitely hold up then.


Can I ask you a question, is a longer traction bar better? I probably have room that I could extend my front upper mount forward and lengthen my traction bar.

Length is all about suspension reaction. Some guys will tell you that you can only dial in your suspension with a 3 or 4 link, and their very wrong. Instant center is all about the point at which your traction acts on your chassis, that point can be moved by a 4/3 links suspension link seperation OR in my case, by the mounting point of my traction/anti-wrap bar.

Right now my Jeep wheel hops pretty bad on big hills @ full throttle with the Boggers. The current bar's shackle is attached at the rear of the belly skid which is causing really high anti-squat numbers. Sooooo, I'm moving that point (& therefore the instant center) forward 15"s which should drastically bring down my anti-squat numbers & significantly calm this thing down when attempting the sick hill climbs.

Barillms
06-28-2012, 09:09 PM
Are those blocks aluminum? if so, I'd go with steel & tack them onto the axle.

Stack Hockey picks inside your coil, drill a hole thru the center and bolt them down
For a lower bumps top to limit your uptravel.
If you have say... 8" of shock travel, most people set up their bump stops for around 3.5" uptravel, and 4.5" downtravel.

Looks good. That looks like a lot of body work to deal with.

XJ_Sean
07-01-2012, 10:53 PM
Awesome, Thanks.. Where can i find steel blocks, or is it just buying like heavy wall 2x4 box tube? and i love the hockey puck idea. I definitely will do that.

XJ_Sean
07-11-2012, 09:41 PM
Fenders Got trimmed
http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/409710_4294742852614_420330729_n.jpg

XJ_Sean
07-15-2012, 09:07 PM
new (smaller) stinger lol :045:
http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/563301_4345024469623_913441763_n.jpg

ridgerunner97
07-15-2012, 09:25 PM
Saw this rig today, thing is a beast. Sean my brother is pumped to get the tires mounted up for his tracker, him and Cole will be making some appearances at events this year should be fun to get them guys out into the sport.

XJ_Sean
07-15-2012, 09:27 PM
Awesome Brother, glad I could help

XJ_Sean
09-04-2012, 02:26 PM
http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/375930_3324449123988_1695000042_n.jpg
http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/s720x720/644200_4582756052764_1113720940_n.jpg
http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/293007_3324450444021_745595756_n.jpg
http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/421688_3324451924058_1735003586_n.jpg