Squall Line's Frontier build

[Squall Line]

Here are the pictures from the work prior to the trip. I got the aux battery and charging system in, as well as installed an inverter for charging up the cameras and laptops.

basic layout

drilled holes for the rivnuts and through bolts

basic charging circuit

A closeup of the crimps. I used a vice and a $17 hammer type lug crimper. I am happy with the result.

clearance on the fridge

pretty much a mess. This was an all-nighter 2 days before the trip.

rails for the inverter

 

[Squall Line]

here is the finished product. I still need to make a cover for the back wall.

highlift installed with the tent rack

as with everything else on this truck- a close fit

Here is some more information regarding the dual batteries: I wanted to be able to put all accessories on one circuit, but not be tied to having the second battery in place at all times. This simple marine switch allows me to: Run the accessories off only the 2nd deepcycle, run the accessories off only the main, or combine them for emergency winching/ starting. The switch inline with the vsr allows safe removal of the second battery (no hot lead hanging in the toolbox). I have not done much research on how people are doing their batteries, but being able to run accessories off the main battery was a feature I decided to work in (haven't seen any specific examples of this same setup). My second battery is an exide orbital mounted in the tool box. I use this same battery for the trolling motor on my boat, and wanted the ability to remove it for around town driving...

Eric

 

[IceCap4runnerORP]

Very nice install, this is great stuff!

I would love to have an aux battery for my Xterra, having little mechanical ability I'm thinking about a configured package like the National Luna Portable Power Pack.

 

[mcm4090]

What do you have the axle mounted in?

 

[Steel_City_X]

Okay,
I missed the source of the hinge assembly for you truck. Any link would be appreciated.

I've seen lots of spindles, but not liking the connection below the arm. You have support above and below the arm - taking both tension and compression forces. I've seen some gate hinges that are also very beefy.

I have an Xterra and want a rack off back for fuel, water, generator. The design of the hinge is very appealing for my purposes.

 

[Squall Line]

mcm4090: the axe is held by a quick fist on top (sierra expeditions has them), and the packaging that came with the axe at the bottom. This is in an existing hole, and I am not sure if it is permanent.

Steel City: There is no origin of the hinge other than a bearing supply store. It is simply two tapped-base pillow blocks. I have two 3/4 inch bearings with a 3/4" grade 8 bolt spanning them. I have not seen this design before, and was a product of chance that the idea worked out so well. It should be easy enough to piece together something of your own.

-Eric

 

[Something]

who makes your gas can holder?

I saw AT...who's that?

 

[bigdog]

who makes your gas can holder?

I saw AT...who's that?

AT = Adventure Trailers - Off Road Trailers & Overland Equipment

 

[Something]

AT = Adventure Trailers - Off Road Trailers & Overland Equipment

thank you sir

they're out of stock....bummer...

 

[Trogdor]

Your Fronty has to be one of the coolest I have seen in a long time! I am wanting to do the same to my truck which is a full size Dodge. Man your truck looks awesome! Keep up the good work.