Metcalf
Expedition Leader
Sounds like it. This is more full body....but basically a buggy under the skins.
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/toyota-land-cruiser/1028518-project-goin-big-fj40.html
Tube crawler style buggy and Rtt thoughts.
- Thread starter 98dango
- Start date
Sounds like it. This is more full body....but basically a buggy under the skins.
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/toyota-land-cruiser/1028518-project-goin-big-fj40.html
Metcalf
Expedition Leader
The back of the tub is basically a tube frame with heavy duty thick armor skins. It looks like it would be pretty durable...
Metcalf
Expedition Leader
Is that just for simplicity and/or cost?
Metcalf
Expedition Leader
I can see that. I don't have any complaints with the leaf spring suspension I built on the flat fender.
You rarely see a leaf spring suspension with quality customs springs, great shocks, and good bumpstops. I would it could work just fantastic.
I'm really digging on the idea of using a factory FJ80 frame/link suspension with the Aqualu FJ40 stretch tub conversion. That looks like it could be a GREAT all around option.
For 'expo' type travel I think there is something to be said for being able to have a suspension that can take a LARGE weight change over the rear axle without getting the saggy butt thing going. Being able to change the load of the vehicle 1000+lbs and retain a quality and level stance could be challenging.
Metcalf
Expedition Leader
Custom springs aren't free, but suspension joints, link material, etc aren't free either!
I had an LJ idea I was working on a few years back. I basically settled on the idea that using air bag for the primary rear suspension could be an interesting way to go. They are pretty affordable. The weight on the REAR suspension always tends to change more than the front suspension. The air bags ( just on the rear ) could also be used for lifting the belly off things, making the rear end lower for loading things, making the vehicle level to sleep in, etc. Just an idea.
Metcalf
Expedition Leader
Yup, the easiest is probably going to be a Jeep CJ/YJ or a FJ40 style land cruiser.
Metcalf
Expedition Leader
I wouldn't worry too much about a title. Most states have good kit car laws.
I chose the CJ/YJ cowl because its easy to get in a replacement part and allows me to bolt on the hood, windshield, etc. The body sides are also pretty easy to get in the YJ/7 length.
I designed the chassis so it could be one unit and all the body panels could bolt on....and be replaced.
98dango
Expedition Leader
I have quite a few ideas going on in my head right now. I also came to the conclusion that my scout is going to have to get me on the trail before I start on this.
I definitely think a full frame built to suit the purpose is needed. I think a fj other yj is the way to go. I like the ls motor to th 400 magnum box and a 205 for tried and true strong. Full width is going to be a pain but worth it in the long run. Definitely need large back spacing on the wheels likely 17" or better to clear breaks and steering. I think a custom soft top is likely the best way to go. I think k a cj8 top would be to long but I would have to get mesurments. I also need alot more knowledge of coial.overs and proper link set up.
I definitely think a full frame built to suit the purpose is needed. I think a fj other yj is the way to go. I like the ls motor to th 400 magnum box and a 205 for tried and true strong. Full width is going to be a pain but worth it in the long run. Definitely need large back spacing on the wheels likely 17" or better to clear breaks and steering. I think a custom soft top is likely the best way to go. I think k a cj8 top would be to long but I would have to get mesurments. I also need alot more knowledge of coial.overs and proper link set up.