Big Red XJ starting the "Overland" build
- Thread starter BigRedXJ
- Start date
BigRedXJ
Adventurer
Between having broken parts and other problems with the Jeep, not being able to get out at all is a bit of a bummer. So until I have cash to fix stuff I'll just be working on extra projects that I keep meaning to take care of. Still having problems uploading pictures of last weekend's work.
VanIsle_Greg
I think I need a bigger truck!
Dude... is it the curse of the Red XJ's? Mine has been pretty much sitting since September. I drive it every weekend, but just around town until I fix it. Ripped a shock off the rear, leafs are blown out, front is clunking (pretty sure it is upper control arm bushings on one side).
I have a PILE of new parts, and just need a weekend of dry or $500 to pay someone to put it all in and FIX IT.
Sigh, I feel your pain.
BigRedXJ
Adventurer
Haha right? With this week's paycheck I'll be getting some parts. Depending on how much I have I'll get a new driveshaft for the front.
vonguido
Adventurer
I feel ya with the list of things to replace. I need to replace the whole cooling system, new trackbar, new front axle shaft u-joints and wheel hubs plus ball joints while I'm at it. Lol this is after new fox shocks, Currie steering and 2 new tires lol. It never ends....I'm taking a paid week off from my fulltime job so I can work 7-12hr shifts in a row at my part time job to help take care of all this stuff lol.
BigRedXJ
Adventurer
Damn! Haha that's more work than I have to worry about for now. I'd suggest the Iron Rock OffRoad track bar, it's very well built. Check out www.rockauto.com for hubs. They've got the best price I've seen on Timken bearings.
BigRedXJ
Adventurer
Well, I had my brakes lock up on me the other day. Got all new calipers, pads, and rotors. In the process of changing it I discovered that one of the holes for the caliper bolts was borderline stripped out. So I posted up on the 4x4 club page that I run and located a spare knuckle. After picking it up I realized it was worse than the one I had. So my dad is taking it to the machine shop at work to repair it. So I ended up having to meet up with my fiance for a ride home and I hope to finish the work tonight. The driver's side went together with no issue. Also ordered a new front axle yoke and front driveshaft from Tom Woods. So hopefully by next weekend I'll be back in action with brand new front brakes and working 4 wheel drive. Still continuing research on next year's trip.
andysgreenxj
Observer
steering and axle
Sweet rig dude! I have a couple questions for you. What did you source the d44 front axle from? And looking at the pics of your rig on the RTI ramp, looks like you have a cross-over steering set going on...are you by any chance running WJ knuckles? And if so, how do you like the set-up?:drool: Also, what are you using for the tie-rods?
Sweet rig dude! I have a couple questions for you. What did you source the d44 front axle from? And looking at the pics of your rig on the RTI ramp, looks like you have a cross-over steering set going on...are you by any chance running WJ knuckles? And if so, how do you like the set-up?:drool: Also, what are you using for the tie-rods?
BigRedXJ
Adventurer
Thanks for the compliments! The front axle was built by G2, so no sourcing there. The knucles are the same as factory Dana 30/44 out of a YJ/XJ/TJ. As for the steering, it is a full crossover system using heim joints. I got the kit from RuffStuff Specialties and had to cut, bend, and weld it. It just comes as a basic builders kit. I really like how it steers, as there's no play in it while steering. Unfortunately I learned the hard way that you've got to pay a bit more attention to keeping the heims clean. I wore out one of the Teflon sleeves in the joint and there's a bit of play in just that joint.