Fred the Van. The More We Explore's Adventure Van Build Thread

[Every Miles A Memory]

http://www.summitracing.com/search/part-type/firewall-grommets

Looks like you'll have to order your own grommet and drill the hole according to the size you order

 

[DzlToy]

Amphenol or a firewall connector like this:

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-g1431-red/overview/

 

[sixstringsteve]

Interesting. I'd prefer to go through an existing plug in the firewall. I'm hoping there's one or two that I just haven't seen, and some of the van owners out there can point me to where they are. I can always drill and make my own later down the road if needed.

 

[peppy]

If you haven't decide yet between the 35's and 37's, I'd highly recommend going with 35's. I've put about 1500 miles on my 6” lift with 4:10's and 35's. I've got a 2000 7.3l which I know differs from your 97. I'm at 2049rpm at 70mph. I don't tow, but my van weighs 11k lbs. I'd definitely want 4.56's with 37's. BFG Ko2's are awesome BTW. Only issue I have with them is the like to pick up entire gravel roads and redistribute them, lol.

 

[sixstringsteve]

Thanks for the feedback peppy. I'm 99% sure I'll go with 35s. I'm torn between the KO2s and the Cooper St Maxx. I had the Maxx on my last rig, and they were the most amazing tires. I loved them in every condition, and they're beefy. I hear the new KO2s are amazing as well.

 

[sixstringsteve]

Finally! Episode 1 of our video build series.

 

[sixstringsteve]

I'm having the toughest time finding wheels I like. I like a simple 5 or 6 spoke black wheel without any plastic chrome fake nuts/bolts on it.

What's the verdict on backspacing? I'm thinking 17x9 with 4.5" bs and 35s. Does that sound about right?

 

[bknudtsen]

I wouldn't go narrower than 17x8" with 35/12.50's. Mine were 17x9" with -12mm offset. 4.5" BS is perfect.

 

[bknudtsen]

These are nice and simple.

http://m.summitracing.com/parts/brw-908b788145

 

[sixstringsteve]

i realized it was a typo. I meant to type 17x9. Thanks.

Those are clean. The price is right too. I dig these ones as well, but I'm not sure what the backspacking is, or if they come in 8x170. http://www.ultrawheel.com/ultra-wheel.cfm?id=19297&cat=1140

 

[bknudtsen]

i realized it was a typo. I meant to type 17x9. Thanks.

Those are clean. The price is right too. I dig these ones as well, but I'm not sure what the backspacking is, or if they come in 8x170. http://www.ultrawheel.com/ultra-wheel.cfm?id=19297&cat=1140

264-7987SB+12 Satin Black with Satin Clear Coat 17.0 9.0 8x170 125.20 +12offset A89-9782SB 3640lbs 33.00lbs Acorn

 

[sixstringsteve]

Dangit. Go figure the one wheel I like has the wrong backspacking. +12 offset is not good. I'd imagine a 5.6" backspacking would make the tires rub the frame.

 

[bknudtsen]

With the 17x9's and 4.5" BS, the Toyo MT's rubbed the leaf on VANdiana.

 

[sixstringsteve]

Interesting. Did they rub a lot, or only at full lock? That's a bummer, I was hoping I could be rub-free.

 

[ujoint]

Great video! 35/12.50's with 4.5 BS should be perfect. If it rubs a bit you can drill & tap the steering stops on the knuckles for a 1/4" bolt and adjust it. Won't take much to keep the tires of the springs.