Jack of all Trades Avalanche Build Thread
- Thread starter HostileJava
- Start date
Stryder106
Explorer
Hi - nice looking rig. I like your idea of the 12V USB socket in the rear for the kids - I HATE the cords running from the front of my area to the back on trips. I need to do that.
To your note about the snorkel build - I have the snorkel (Safari SS81HF) but have not yet started the build. I also have the sealed airbox from S&B. So - it's now a matter of getting the time to start figuring how (and if) this snorkel will fit on my rig. I will post update pics in this thread for you.
I also need to add a steering stabilizer - and I know my leveling has een chewing through balljoints - I can feel my front end getting goofy - again - and they're relatively new. Really need to expedite a true lift to get my angles back how they are supposed to be. Will keep you posted.
To your note about the snorkel build - I have the snorkel (Safari SS81HF) but have not yet started the build. I also have the sealed airbox from S&B. So - it's now a matter of getting the time to start figuring how (and if) this snorkel will fit on my rig. I will post update pics in this thread for you.
I also need to add a steering stabilizer - and I know my leveling has een chewing through balljoints - I can feel my front end getting goofy - again - and they're relatively new. Really need to expedite a true lift to get my angles back how they are supposed to be. Will keep you posted.
HostileJava
Observer
Please keep me updated on your progress. Sorry for the late replies, for some reason I don't get notifications when people respond.
Minor update as I haven't had much time to work on the truck. I installed a torsion bar on the tailgate. You can close and open it now with two fingers instead of having to use both hands.
Also picked up a portable compressor
And a new frame strengthening hitch rated at 10k lbs without WD and 12k with WD, I haven't had time to install it yet as I want to pick up a hole saw and adapter to relocate the trailer plug into the bumper.
and a few random shots....
HostileJava
Observer
I have thought about the torsion bar for the tailgate. Where did you get yours and how much $$?
My only reservation would be that I swap tailgates when hauling the bikes:
Would it make swapping gates a hassle?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CMHVJO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The gate swap will turn into a two person job or a very awkward one person job. You have to remove one side, pull the bar out of the bottom of the gate and then pull the other side out. You could probably do it with one person, but two makes it a lot easier.
Where did you get that other gate from? I think I'd like that for the summer when I'm running with the midgate down and no covers.
HostileJava
Observer
Some other little work this weekend. Installed a new frame strengthening hitch, relocated the tow electric connection from the hitch to the bumper on the left of the plate and acquired a hitch mount winch that I test fit and am working on installing.
Bear in NM
Adventurer
Thank you for the idea and links to the tailgate assist spring. Might have to try that one out on my Av.
I did the upgraded hitch point earlier this summer, but went with the Curt. I relocated my 7-pin to the same spot you show. It's nice having the hitch tucked up higher.
I installed a curt receiver on the front, and it looks from you picture to be about where you show yours. The receiver extends just at the very bottom edge of the cladding. I am still undecided about this location. I have seen the "flipped" install which locates the receiver behind the license plate area. As we do not have front plates in my state, this seems like a better location. But, with the curt receiver right at the lower edge of the cladding, running one of the angled skid plate inserts, I get a metal protection point for the cladding. Basically, if something is close enough to rub the skid, it is within an inch or two of the cladding, and really requires a looksee. Been debating a receiver winch (cradle) like you show, but with the receiver so low, this pretty much kills any approach/departure angle on my Av. Decisions, decisions.....
Craig
I did the upgraded hitch point earlier this summer, but went with the Curt. I relocated my 7-pin to the same spot you show. It's nice having the hitch tucked up higher.
I installed a curt receiver on the front, and it looks from you picture to be about where you show yours. The receiver extends just at the very bottom edge of the cladding. I am still undecided about this location. I have seen the "flipped" install which locates the receiver behind the license plate area. As we do not have front plates in my state, this seems like a better location. But, with the curt receiver right at the lower edge of the cladding, running one of the angled skid plate inserts, I get a metal protection point for the cladding. Basically, if something is close enough to rub the skid, it is within an inch or two of the cladding, and really requires a looksee. Been debating a receiver winch (cradle) like you show, but with the receiver so low, this pretty much kills any approach/departure angle on my Av. Decisions, decisions.....
Craig
Stryder106
Explorer
This is how I did mine - no receiver hitch - winch is mounted to a plate that is welded between the frame rails and hidden behind the bumper tubes which are also welded to the frames rails. This style coupled with the 2" leveling and 285/70-17 tires drastically improved my approach angle.
HostileJava
Observer
I may eventually go with the flipped hitch and actually remove the bottom part of the bumper. I've been contemplating it. As far as the winch right now it's a smaller winch that I'm going to keep mounted to the hitch plate so I can swap it between my Blazer and the Avalanche. I hope to eventually get a 12k lb winch that I can permanently mount to the Avalanche.
Bear in NM
Adventurer
Yep, contemplation here as well. I like the winch idea, but having had one on my Jeep that never got used, I am not sure I want to cut up the front end to accommodate one. My Av is newer to me, and have not decided whether I want to go full on expo/baja with it. I actually really like the cladding, but I need to see a little more winter/offroad time with mine to decide. I think next spring I am going to pull off the lower front cladding, and see about flipping the front receiver.
Craig
Craig
HostileJava
Observer
Here she is on the maiden Voyage home with our Brand new 2017 Rockwood Roo 21DK Hybrid
chilliwak
Expedition Leader
Nice looking :Wow1:rig Java. I was wondering if you might go over to completely replacing the front bumper with something made for the Avalanche? That way you could get a winch set-up that really suits your needs and did not sit down so low in the front. I am curious to know if thats what you are looking for or if its of no matter to you. Cheers, chilli..
HostileJava
Observer
Thanks!Nice looking :Wow1:rig Java. I was wondering if you might go over to completely replacing the front bumper with something made for the Avalanche? That way you could get a winch set-up that really suits your needs and did not sit down so low in the front. I am curious to know if thats what you are looking for or if its of no matter to you. Cheers, chilli..
I've also had my eye on the Move Bumper kits. At this point I'm still undecided.