My expedition build up of the 'Duke

[the dude]

I have a complete build over on mud if anybody is interested under ROTW. I thought I would just highlight what I am doing on the "expedition" side of things.

The truck is a 1988 HJ61 with lockers, PTO winch, built auto and 12H-T diesel. The boost is cranked and an intercooler has been installed. It is sprung over on OME heavies all around with custom bumpers/sliders. Bilstien shock, urethane body mounts and 2" body lift running on 38x14.5 Toyos.

First up was a set of new headlights. E code 100W low an 120W highs with upgrade headlight harness. Drawing courtesy Wayne Tangen A must do upgrade IMO. They have out performed any after market aux lights I have tried

Next was the install of the low tech drawers system. Two slide outs for tools and camp gear with recovery gear in the right cubby and electronics in the left

My truck is 24V, which I love, but it does limit you on some items so a Solar Converter 24V->12V converter was installed with a third battery and a charge regulator. It runs the permanently install 400W inverter and the 1000W removable, stereo, CB, shower pump ect.

 

[the dude]

I also installed a heat exchanger and 12V pump for a on board shower. I will have to get a better shot of the pump and exchanger. I plumbed the inlet and out let to my front bumper. I hope they don't get knocked off hanging out like they do.

Onto the tire rack and fuel storage. The problem with running big tires is that you need a big spare. I was running a set of Michelin XMLs prior to the Toyos and the best of the lot got spare tire duty, that's a 325/85R16. I stole the design from other bumpers I found on the net.

The fuel rack turned out well. Room for two scepter cans. i just need to incorporate a license plate holder and maybe a shovel/axe holder.

I was inspired by KMR from www.wagongear.com on his under wagon fuel storage using the AT fuel can holder and decided to build my own. Because of the body lift and no spare under the truck I have lots of room. i would love a long range fuel tank but trying to find one is a PITA and they are $$$$. I still need to do the mounting, I think it will be hinged at one end and bolted up on the bottom side of the rear bumper. So far:

 

[the dude]

For OBA air and recovery, thanks to Sierra Expeditions:

Next up on the list is installing this bad boy I got from Kurt at Cruiseroutfitters. I am just awaiting the slide lock.

We also have a CDN M101 that will get a complete make over this winter, hopefully with the addition of a RTT.

 

[ujoint]

Lookin good! You're ready for some trips now! I like the drawer system, great job.

 

[the dude]

Count down to our Alaska trip is 20 days!!!

we are head up to do some wheeling with Mark Whatley and the alaska cruiser crew. We can't wait.

 

[mike h]

wow - that is beautiful work! Glad you posted here - I'm on mud but rarely leave the 80 tech forum. Looks perfect for an Alaska trek!

 

[Green96D1]

Man I say man you know how to build a Toyotaunk03:

 

[CodyLX450]

Hehe, with the hi-roof the XML spare almost looks regular sized..

 

[adventureduo]

Wow, what a monster!!

i love it!

 

[KMR]

Because of the body lift and no spare under the truck I have lots of room. i would love a long range fuel tank but trying to find one is a PITA and they are $$$$. I still need to do the mounting, I think it will be hinged at one end and bolted up on the bottom side of the rear bumper. So far:

Thats gona be sweet Brad! I looked at putting two there, but without a body lift and lower springs I just couldn't safely clear them.
That fridge doesn't look like it hinges the right way yet though!?! :safari-rig:

Are those chair leg rubber caps on your quick disconnects? If so, that is a cool idea, if not, what are they?

 

[89s rule]

Your truck is my favorite 60 series of all time! Keep more details going! Post up some pics of the front bumper for these guys its a nice work of art!! WOW as usual!!!

Did you build the rear bumper or was it the same guy as the front bumper.

 

[the dude]

Thanks everyone.

Yup, the fridge still opens the wrong way, but I should have that fixed before our trip to Alaska! Thanks for the parts, did your speaker plates show up yet? The caps are rubber feet for chair legs. The seem to work OK and seal nicely. A couple buck at Home Depot.

The front bumper was built by a friend before I had a bender the rear bumper and swingouts where built by me.

Here's a better shot of the front bumper. My hilift is now residing on top of it. Not sure if I like it there but does stay out of the way.

 

[Starscream]

:drool: wow. Awesome work, that thing amazing. I don't know what I am more jealous of.... your truck or your trip to AK! Have fun.

-Matt

 

[kcowyo]

I was inspired by KMR from www.wagongear.com on his under wagon fuel storage using the AT fuel can holder and decided to build my own. Because of the body lift and no spare under the truck I have lots of room. i would love a long range fuel tank but trying to find one is a PITA and they are $$$$. I still need to do the mounting, I think it will be hinged at one end and bolted up on the bottom side of the rear bumper. So far:

Inspired indeed.

Don't forget to come back to this..... :lurk:

 

[the dude]

Well I fought and fought and fought and finally got the cross member and hinges for the fuel rack installed only to run into clearance issue with my bolt on receiver hitch...argh. it's always something.

the cross member with weld on slide hinges:

The rack hangs straight down for easy loading:

first can strapped in:

second can, I was too lazy to find a strap:

up it goes.

View from behind. It's not flush with bumper as it hangs down a couple inches, but I am not worried about it:

I will get better pictures of it on the street in the next couple of days..