Yup, read that one more than once. Going on UA this year in the flat fender really gave me some perspective on where I think I am going in this sport, what you need, what you don't need, etc.
In the end I decided to build this....
Which is my version of this....
It is basically a 'buggy' that is skinned in CJ7 panels. That will let me use a CJ windshield, wipers, defrost, doors, tops, etc. Rough specs are going to be...
-4.8 or 5.3 LS truck engine. I made sure to design the chassis to be able to use the truck pan, truck intake, truck accessories, and truck exhaust manifolds to save money.
-TF904/999 Trans. I picked it up cheap, it is the GM bell /D300 version. I got the LS flex plate, converter, fully built and has a RMVB.
-Some kind of 2.72 geared crawler box. I'm not 100% sure on what version yet, probably the ORD magnum.
-Ford NP205 transfer case. Traded for it. It will get modded for twin stick control.
-2003+ AAM dodge 9.25" front, 3.73 gears, auto locker hopefully.
-2003+ AAM dodge 10.5" rear, 3.73 gears, powerwagon locker.
-2003+ dodge 2500 wheels, 17x8", 6" BS, aluminum, hopefully the 'polished' forged version
-42x14.5x17 MTR Kevlars
-3-link + panhard front, steering box with hydro assist, 4-link rear suspension.
-12" shocks set 50/50
-109" wheelbase, no body stretch, front axle pushed about 6", rear axle pushed about 8". ~82" wide.
I'm going to play around using 2 low in the np205 as an underdrive and keeping the 3.73 gears in the axles.
Body panels are inbound now. I have a bit of measuring of the panels to do, some shop cleaning, and then building should start soon.
This kinda thing really isn't an 'expo' vehicle in the traditional sense even though I tend to use all my crazy vehicles that way. I don't know if I will stick a thread up here or not.
