View Full Version : My exploration/back country rig
tmleadr03
05-11-2014, 20:47
This followed me home today.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140512_080310_zps36bd0820.jpg
Coming from an X5 let me say this is a tank. Drives like it, rides like it, accelerates like it. The road manners are less then refined. But it will go so many places my X5 can not go and I plan to find them.
Things I noticed on the drive that I didn't know before picking it up. Sunroof drain is probably clogged (rain snow here right now and some drips inside easy fix). Cruise control doesn't work. Headlight out. Slight missfire after the drive when I pulled up in front of my house, it hiccuped a couple of times.
Things I knew about. Rear locker not locking. Couple of oil leaks. Radio antenna is one of those power up and down ones... not it is not. Big one is the rear locker. Could be an easy fix, could be expensive.
First a Scout, now this. What's next? A Landrover? [Coffee]
tmleadr03
05-11-2014, 21:03
First a Scout, now this. What's next? A Landrover? [Coffee]
Want to buy a Scout?
No land rover.
Once you fix the locker, find out if you can do the Gray Wire mod on this model.
Colorado_Outback
05-11-2014, 21:16
Sweet Toyota.
Want to buy a Scout?
Sorry, no time or space for such a project. Wish I had the time and space for something.
Kewl, a Land Crusher. Is that a Series 80 or a 100, what year? Got an ARB front bumper and rock rails already so that's good. Slee Offroad has lots of good info on their website. IH8MUD forum is a good source for info too.
newracer
05-11-2014, 21:40
Nice!
tmleadr03
05-11-2014, 21:41
Kewl, a Land Crusher. Is that a Series 80 or a 100, what year? Got an ARB front bumper and rock rails already so that's good. Slee Offroad has lots of good info on their website. IH8MUD forum is a good source for info too.
I spend entirely too much time on Expo Forum.
1993 FZJ80. Thing is a tank. Hoping for a simple fix for the rear locker and then hit the trails as is.
Down the road I think i will move the spare to the rear bumper (have to get a rear bumper I guess) and put a second fuel tank there. 14 mpg on a good day is a bit hard to swallow.
Now you just need some portal axles.
I spend entirely too much time on Expo Forum.
1993 FZJ80. Thing is a tank. Hoping for a simple fix for the rear locker and then hit the trails as is.
Down the road I think i will move the spare to the rear bumper (have to get a rear bumper I guess) and put a second fuel tank there. 14 mpg on a good day is a bit hard to swallow.
Yup, a big, comfortable tank. Yeah, those rear bumpers with the tire mount are $$$ but they're a great thing to have. http://www.sleeoffroad.com/products/bumpers/sof_rear_80series_detail.htm
14 is great, my F250 V10 gets 12, and my 4Runner gets 18-22.
Good luck. I have seen several of those be very capable
Looks really straight. Like the front bumper, is there a winch in there somewhere?
hurley842002
05-12-2014, 06:06
Once you fix the locker, find out if you can do the Gray Wire mod on this model.
This ^^^ I did the gray wire mod the day after I bought my Taco, I think I use my locker more in 2wd then I do in 4wd.
This ^^^ I did the gray wire mod the day after I bought my Taco, I think I use my locker more in 2wd then I do in 4wd.
Me too! Then I rolled it doing supercharged, locked donughts.
tmleadr03
05-12-2014, 08:53
Looks really straight. Like the front bumper, is there a winch in there somewhere?
Nope, just the hole where it goes. May get one. Not certain yet. I haven't even seen mud with it yet.
tmleadr03
05-12-2014, 08:58
Once you fix the locker, find out if you can do the Gray Wire mod on this model.
Absolutely. I don't want to have to go to low to use the rear locker if I don't have to.
Me too! Then I rolled it doing supercharged, locked donughts.
Note to self: Don't do gray wire mod donuts. lol
funkymonkey1111
05-12-2014, 13:47
let me know if you want to do some overland trips!44675
looks like a great rig!
let me know if you want to do some overland trips!
As opposed to say a maritime voyage?
funkymonkey1111
05-12-2014, 14:03
As opposed to say a maritime voyage?
as opposed to rock crawling, mud, etc.
tmleadr03
05-12-2014, 19:07
let me know if you want to do some overland trips!44675
looks like a great rig!
Will do! I never got the rear locker figured out today. Too much else went on.
Today I got the plugs done, found a vacuum leak, adjusted timing, flushed the diffs, replaced the front pinion seal and changed the oil.
Front diff was NASTY!!!
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140512_135508_zpsdafb9f71.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140512_141749_zpsc687c8bf.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140512_140132_zps5c42e7ce.jpg
Pulled the fill plug and it was overfull, smelt burnt and had metal flakes in it. Looks like it got water contamination.
I will be doing the front diff again in a week. And possibly in another week after that. Yuck.
KevDen2005
05-12-2014, 19:46
14 mpg on a good day is a bit hard to swallow.
Giggity
KevDen2005
05-12-2014, 19:48
As opposed to say a maritime voyage?
LOL, Actually I am only interested in maritime voyages, that's why I live in Colorado.
Seriously, a lover of guns and sweet off road rigs....a man after my own heart...I might be tearing up a little.
spongejosh
05-12-2014, 21:59
It's a shitty job but with the front diff being that nasty I'd pull the knuckles and make sure they aren't contaminated too.
Will do! I never got the rear locker figured out today. Too much else went on.
Today I got the plugs done, found a vacuum leak, adjusted timing, flushed the diffs, replaced the front pinion seal and changed the oil.
Front diff was NASTY!!!
Pulled the fill plug and it was overfull, smelt burnt and had metal flakes in it. Looks like it got water contamination.
I will be doing the front diff again in a week. And possibly in another week after that. Yuck.
I don't know much past changing the oil or alternator or starter on a vehicle... but in exchange for sponging up your knowledge... Call me whenever you need someone to give you a third hand. Or sweeping up the mess.
I'll bring a beverage or two as well.
spqrzilla
05-12-2014, 23:00
Oops, that is a nasty set of diff fluid. Maybe water, check the vent tubes.
Those FZJ80's are solid rigs. I would be driving one if the owners didn't love 'em too much $$.
Oops, that is a nasty set of diff fluid. Maybe water, check the vent tubes.
Those FZJ80's are solid rigs. I would be driving one if the owners didn't love 'em too much $$.
Yeah, that's some bad fluid there, makes me wonder what else is messed up on the insides, did they change the motor oil?
The Land Cruiser is a top-of-the-line vehicle and they command that $$$$ because the value is there; provided of course the previous owners followed the maintenance schedule.
I was looking hard at buying a Land Crusher but my mechanics (who love Toyota) warned me off so I got a 4Runner instead. Part of their advice is that while people who buy these high-dollar vehicles might be able to afford the payment/insurance, they can't afford the maintenance so a number of these vehicles see very minimal maintenance.
tmleadr03
05-13-2014, 08:32
Yeah, that's some bad fluid there, makes me wonder what else is messed up on the insides, did they change the motor oil?
The Land Cruiser is a top-of-the-line vehicle and they command that $$$$ because the value is there; provided of course the previous owners followed the maintenance schedule.
I was looking hard at buying a Land Crusher but my mechanics (who love Toyota) warned me off so I got a 4Runner instead. Part of their advice is that while people who buy these high-dollar vehicles might be able to afford the payment/insurance, they can't afford the maintenance so a number of these vehicles see very minimal maintenance.
It was probably standard oil (not synthetic) and filled on the ground so overfilled. I am working my way through the fluids and taking care of some oil leaks as I go. I really want the rear diff locker working soon. And cruise control. Sadly I have work to do and can't play today.
It was probably standard oil (not synthetic) and filled on the ground so overfilled. I am working my way through the fluids and taking care of some oil leaks as I go. I really want the rear diff locker working soon. And cruise control. Sadly I have work to do and can't play today.
I know my mechanics always check my diffs with the truck in the air but I don't know why.
Doncha hate when gainful employment raises its ugly head and ruins our fun. :)
tmleadr03
05-13-2014, 10:10
I know my mechanics always check my diffs with the truck in the air but I don't know why.
Doncha hate when gainful employment raises its ugly head and ruins our fun. :)
I don't know if I would go that far. More of a tool addiction I am barely paying for.
I don't know if I would go that far. More of a tool addiction I am barely paying for.
I understand that - I've been buying american made hand tools like Snap On off Ebay lately. I don't use them regularly but I sure like having them when I need them.
tmleadr03
05-13-2014, 11:20
Try armstrong tools.
I understand that - I've been buying american made hand tools like Snap On off Ebay lately. I don't use them regularly but I sure like having them when I need them.
Try armstrong tools.
Excellent reputation for Armstrong, Wright, S-K, vintage Proto, Mac, and Matco, some are hard to find though. Snap On is far and away the easiest to get on Ebay and their older tools are excellent quality.
tmleadr03
05-13-2014, 12:45
Excellent reputation for Armstrong, Wright, S-K, vintage Proto, Mac, and Matco, some are hard to find though. Snap On is far and away the easiest to get on Ebay and their older tools are excellent quality.
I am less and less impressed with SnapOn.
Can you hear the electric motor on the diff engaging the locker? If you can chances are your you just need to massage it a little by slowly weaving back and forth under 5 mph. It took me long enough to get mine working that i caught the attention of a LEO and he made me do a field sobriety test once i got back on a public road so i would suggest doing it in a parking lot to avoid a careless driving ticket.
I think that has the same traction control system the 4 runner had so you may want to look into how to wire up a by pass because it is really intrusive and almost worthless off road.
tmleadr03
05-26-2014, 21:01
Went out and got a little mud on the tires today.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140526_180303_zps620e8971.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140526_172230_zps2d25f7f4.jpg
tmleadr03
05-26-2014, 21:02
Can you hear the electric motor on the diff engaging the locker? If you can chances are your you just need to massage it a little by slowly weaving back and forth under 5 mph. It took me long enough to get mine working that i caught the attention of a LEO and he made me do a field sobriety test once i got back on a public road so i would suggest doing it in a parking lot to avoid a careless driving ticket.
I think that has the same traction control system the 4 runner had so you may want to look into how to wire up a by pass because it is really intrusive and almost worthless off road.
I have tried that, got a bit car sick doing it and still just a flashing light on the dash. Going to backprobe it and make sure it is getting the correct signal soon.
KevDen2005
05-26-2014, 21:24
Went out and got a little mud on the tires today.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140526_180303_zps620e8971.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140526_172230_zps2d25f7f4.jpg
Awesome! Where at?
tmleadr03
05-26-2014, 21:38
Awesome! Where at?
Geneva Creek Trail. Didn't get all the way to the end, there was quite a bit of snow pack towards the top.
tmleadr03
05-31-2014, 18:15
Went and ran some trails today.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_100931_zpsc8a5326b.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_103451_zps09177d29.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_123055_zpsdde13526.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_124507_zps41a8b548.jpg
Pulled a stuck Jeep out of a snow packed trail.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_094913_zpscd5c4553.jpg
This was a fun part after that the trail was all wet.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_102458_zps0e2ba452.jpg
Decided not to try crossing this one and turned around.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_103040_zps635fd500.jpg
A lot of the trails looked like this only worse.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_132600_zps5e350c7d.jpg
End of the trail, and a shack.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_130432_zps92c6cdbc.jpg
On the way back down (had already split up from the Jeep I was running with at this point) took a wrong turn. It was very steep and muddy and narrow. Much more of a Jeep trail, then a tank (Land Cruiser) trail. Thankfully I have sliders, but it didn't completely save me.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_133419_zps77270d2c.jpg
Should have jumped out and got a pic from outside, this doenst do it justice. And I am not a rock crawler.
Here is the damage.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_133914_zps6c25d14b.jpg
Cleaned up.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_170917_zpsbe03f566.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_170923_zps536d7103.jpg
hurley842002
05-31-2014, 20:30
Pulled a stuck Jeep out of a snow packed trail.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140531_094913_zpscd5c4553.jpg
How unfortunate, is that a Rubicon? Pretty sure my single locker Taco has conquered deeper snow than that.
Disclaimer: I'm a rare breed of Jeep and Toyota lover, so not throwing any bias just observation.
tmleadr03
05-31-2014, 21:42
How unfortunate, is that a Rubicon? Pretty sure my single locker Taco has conquered deeper snow than that.
Disclaimer: I'm a rare breed of Jeep and Toyota lover, so not throwing any bias just observation.
It is. He was in 4Hi, and he did not have any lockers.
hurley842002
05-31-2014, 21:47
It is. He was in 4Hi, and he did not have any lockers.
Didn't have them (lockers) engaged or didn't have them at all?
tmleadr03
05-31-2014, 21:56
Didn't have them (lockers) engaged or didn't have them at all?
He said he didn't know. He may not know how to use it. It is a Wrangler Unlimited and according to the Jeep website if you get it in Rubicon it has locking diffs.
hurley842002
05-31-2014, 22:00
He said he didn't know. He may not know how to use it. It is a Wrangler Unlimited and according to the Jeep website if you get it in Rubicon it has locking diffs.
Perhaps my assumption on Rubicon owners being "yuppies" who don't know how to use their equipment isn't so far off after all.
tmleadr03
05-31-2014, 22:02
Perhaps my assumption on Rubicon owners being "yuppies" who don't know how to use their equipment isn't so far off after all.
LOL. He is a decent guy. Just learning. He is camping, which I am not doing. I came home for a shower and a comfortable bed.
hurley842002
05-31-2014, 22:41
LOL. He is a decent guy. Just learning. He is camping, which I am not doing. I came home for a shower and a comfortable bed.
I'm sure he probably is, I shouldn't paint them all the same.
Looks like he just bought the Jeep? That looks like there are dealership promos where the license plates should be.
He might want to dig into the owner's manual.
I have tried that, got a bit car sick doing it and still just a flashing light on the dash. Going to backprobe it and make sure it is getting the correct signal soon.
Sounds good, if there is a problem with the locker itself, less the motor and being sticky from non use, it is normally catastrophic so do not worry too much.
Keep the pictures coming. One day you will be changing the oil or something and see a "beauty mark" and say either that was a fun day or how the hell did i get out of that I.e. memorable non then less.
tmleadr03
06-01-2014, 12:05
So the biggest frustration I faced yesterday on the trails was the stupid flashing light saying my rear locker wasn't locking. And there was one trail I could have gotten up if the rear had locked. Wasn't technical, just snow pack killing the traction on the right side of the Cruiser. I had the front locked, but considering the angle the rear was doing most of the work and it was spinning the right RR tire, not grabbing with the LR where it had mud/dirt to grip.
So I fixed it today.
First thing I did was verify that it was actually getting actuated by the switch. Backprobe and read it out.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140601_102152_zps0277938a.jpg
Ok, that sucks. Electrical problem to the actuator has so much more potential for an easy fix. Ah well. I knew it before I did the test, just wanted to verify. I could hear it moving.
So now I wanted to see what exactly was going on inside there. So a couple of cover plates came off.
Not actuated:
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140601_103458_zps24048614.jpg
Actuated:
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140601_103520_zps22d02623.jpg
Huh, it looks like it is trying but no dice. It pushed the pin out but not with any force, I could still reach in and wiggle it. At this point I was thinking broken spring. That would be the suck.
Nope. I pulled the second cover off and did some more digging. The gear was rotating to where it should but wasn't putting pressure on the spring to push the pin in. There was so little tension I could remove the gear assembly while it was actuated. Which I did, sorry forgot to snap pics of that. So I played with it a bit, actuated and retracted it using a power probe. And it clicked. I needed to reclock it. The springs were intact, but it looked like the pin gearing had just jumped a tooth. I couldn't see any damage, so I actuated it, pulled the gearing out, pushed the pin in till it locked the diff, put the gearing back in, retracted it. It worked. It pulled the pin out. So I actuated it, it pushed it in and locked the diff. And now it was under tension to the point I couldn't pull it out at both ends of the spectrum.
Not Actuated:
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140601_112323_zpsfcf2c659.jpg
Actuated:
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140601_112019_zps7fb20c74.jpg
Now to put the cover plates back on, hope the oring is still good and go try it on the dirt next weekend.
That would be pretty cool if that fixes it, but something allowed the problem to occur in the first place.
tmleadr03
06-01-2014, 12:35
That would be pretty cool if that fixes it, but something allowed the problem to occur in the first place.
True. It basically jumped a tooth or two. No visible damage so I am crossing my fingers. And really I am no worse off then I was before.
SamuraiCO
06-01-2014, 13:04
I really want one of the older diesel Land Cruisers. They have to be 25 years old to get around emission import rules. More are showing up for sale but still a pretty penny for them between 25k to 40k depending on how much work needed and extras you want on them.
tmleadr03
06-01-2014, 13:12
I really want one of the older diesel Land Cruisers. They have to be 25 years old to get around emission import rules. More are showing up for sale but still a pretty penny for them between 25k to 40k depending on how much work needed and extras you want on them.
This one has 271k on the clock. I think the engine might be starting to get a little tired. I haven't done a leak down and compression test yet, mostly because I don't want to know yet. But when it does finally die I am going to do a V8 or a 4BT swap. I know the more common one is the 6BT swap, but I am getting used to the lack of power, I want better fuel economy...
SamuraiCO
06-01-2014, 13:16
My buddy that is hosting my bees in Elizabeth picked up a 2000 Land Cruiser. He had Slee do front and rear bumpers with external wheel and fuel can holders that swing out for access to back. I have some serious jelly issues with his rig.
tmleadr03
06-01-2014, 13:37
My buddy that is hosting my bees in Elizabeth picked up a 2000 Land Cruiser. He had Slee do front and rear bumpers with external wheel and fuel can holders that swing out for access to back. I have some serious jelly issues with his rig.
One of the mods I am going to do is the rear bumper and move the spare to that location. Then a second fuel tank where the spare was.
tmleadr03
06-01-2014, 13:37
jd3DwR4HR-4
Parts and labor that is a 25-30k vehicle.
That's like a years worth of maintenance on an FJ.
tmleadr03
06-08-2014, 10:49
First of, rear locker worked! Woot! Not as quickly as the front so it is most likely going to be replaced in the next 10-20k miles.
Second, want to know how you can tell you live in one of the best states in the Union? When this is the view on the hardball, an hour before you get to the dirt.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140607_084705_zps620a57ef.jpg
Made it to the dirt and it only got better.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140607_121928_zpscce31f72.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140607_101742_zps8b48f5f5.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140607_095019_zps0b49d828.jpg
Two weekends running I have had to pull a Jeep out.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140607_123711_zps1a81abfb.jpg
Found a camping site, nothing much just a place to park. The view that night was a bit meh.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140607_182921_zpsf62d9fb6.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140607_174525_zpse5834536.jpg
But waking up the next morning was glorious!
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140608_061435_zps27a5e3cb.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140608_061448_zpse86d0561.jpg
I really do need to take a day off on the weekend trips and actually rebuild my front end. The birfs are on their way out and there is entirely too much play in the gearing. Full day. Sigh. I would much rather be out cruising the mountains then working on it.
Those guys in the Jeep looked pretty prepared for inclement weather.
tmleadr03
06-08-2014, 16:16
Those guys in the Jeep looked pretty prepared for inclement weather.
In their defense I was driving around in shorts and a TShirt as well. Of course I had warm clothing in the back, oh shit gear (my strap I am using there), sleeping bag and enough food and beer to last at least 24 hours with out assistance. If it really got bad I could have started drinking water.
I really want one of the older diesel Land Cruisers. They have to be 25 years old to get around emission import rules. More are showing up for sale but still a pretty penny for them between 25k to 40k depending on how much work needed and extras you want on them.
Got a buddy that has a 1973 4 5 or so that just got delivered from AZ, 100% restoration, not sure how much he wants..
Also has 2 Uni Mogs, we are going to be building things for just arrived from Germany.
tml you need a Bug Out trailer.
tmleadr03
06-09-2014, 11:16
tml you need a Bug Out trailer.
Considering it, but right now with just me there is no way I need that type of additional space in this cruiser. Not to mention I don't like the idea of having to back down a trail with one. But I have had some ideas for one for longer trips in back country. Can't find much of that type of thing around this state. Great trails, but you are never more then a few miles from civilization.
brianakell
06-09-2014, 14:52
If you are in an emissions area forget the 4 or 6bt swap, not a legal swap. Look at 5.7 or 5.3 would be my suggestion, though the diesel would be great, and makes sense, just a no-no according to EPA/state.
tmleadr03
06-13-2014, 19:28
Spent a bit working on it today.
One of these is not like the others...
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140613_122808_zps13cab590.jpg
The rear wheel seal was leaking so I figured (especially since it was actually making the abs kick in from oiling my brakes) it was time to take care of that before heading out to the woods again.
Old and busted.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140612_154453_zps164c7ddc.jpg
Very badly soaked.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140612_155001_zpsde0c4565.jpg
Getting cleaned up.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140613_115816_zps12866399.jpg
Shiny!
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140613_161608_zps804f7d40.jpg
This is the back side of that wet rotor.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140613_162358_zpsf746e081.jpg
And it looks like another project is on the horizon.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140613_161615_zps4c79a87b.jpg
Colorado_Outback
06-13-2014, 20:24
Drum parking brake on the inside of the rotor?
Looks good. I need to do brakes on my Cherokee soon.
tmleadr03
06-13-2014, 21:59
Drum parking brake on the inside of the rotor?
Looks good. I need to do brakes on my Cherokee soon.
Exactly. Drum in rotor.
tmleadr03
07-13-2014, 22:06
Haven't done a great deal of work on the Tank recently. Went 4x4ing last weekend and had the brakes go to shit when they got hot. Flushed the fluid this last week (huh, should have done that much sooner clearly old) and this weekend didn't have an issue all weekend. Also did a rear pinion seal.
Fluid difference:
Before
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140711_144422_zps7i16qcts.jpg
After
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140711_144807_zpsmgzrml0d.jpg
Some pics from last weekend hanging out with some Jeeps.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/Mobile%20Uploads/20140705_145734_zpswb6bfiqz.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/Mobile%20Uploads/20140705_132341_zpsrlrue0ih.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/Mobile%20Uploads/20140705_142632_zpsxhbmzlum.jpg
This weekend I spent in the San Isabel National Forest area and had a wonderful time. Close to the water was a bit buggy, as in as soon as you stopped you were swarmed by mosquitos. They would just hover over everywhere you had bug spray wanting to land.
Here are a few pics from that area.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140712_171159_zpsteqysjfb.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140712_103341_zpsezev5a8g.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140712_102535_zpslgp9j5to.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140712_102046_zpsqyskj8qf.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140712_095944_zpsohcknq84.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140712_080847_zpskrswnpiq.jpg
HoneyBadger
07-14-2014, 13:13
^ Looks like an awesome time! What trail is that?
tmleadr03
07-14-2014, 15:46
Most of the pics from this last weekend were taken around these GPS co-ordinates: 38.672082,-106.290261
KevDen2005
07-14-2014, 17:20
If you do any Sunday trips let me know, I would be interested
tmleadr03
07-14-2014, 17:54
If you do any Sunday trips let me know, I would be interested
Will do!
buckeye4rnr
07-16-2014, 22:08
So does this mean you're going to be taking on more Toyota work, like say a 2013 4Runner TE?
tmleadr03
07-18-2014, 08:02
So does this mean you're going to be taking on more Toyota work, like say a 2013 4Runner TE?
Yes and no. I am a German car shop and that is where my education lies. Many things cross over. But somethings dont. There are a ton on specialty tools in my shop, but not for a toyota.
drift_g35
07-18-2014, 10:39
So does this mean you're going to be taking on more Toyota work, like say a 2013 4Runner TE?
I just got a 2014 sr5 4runner. 100% stock but ive been going on a few easier trails. We should all go out soon!
ruthabagah
07-18-2014, 11:53
I just got a 2014 sr5 4runner. 100% stock but ive been going on a few easier trails. We should all go out soon!
Advice from a former 5th gen 4runner owner (2010 Limited): Stay on the easy trails.... Long wheelbase and poor turn radius are a handicap on more technical trails.
tmleadr03
07-18-2014, 12:19
Advice from a former 5th gen 4runner owner (2010 Limited): Stay on the easy trails.... Long wheelbase and poor turn radius are a handicap on more technical trails.
It can make it challenging with the boat I have. But not impossible.
kawiracer14
07-21-2014, 12:16
Advice from a former 5th gen 4runner owner (2010 Limited): Stay on the easy trails.... Long wheelbase and poor turn radius are a handicap on more technical trails.
I got down Black Bear Pass in a Crewmax Tundra on Thursday... I say have some fun! [Beer]
RonMexico
07-21-2014, 18:36
I love the Buena Vista area; bye,nice photos,stay safe and try tincup pass if you are around that area again.
tmleadr03
07-25-2014, 10:55
Last weekend. Did a pass, found some abandoned stuff.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140720_103343_zpspqq0flgv.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140720_103019_zpsapdymcyu.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140719_131748_zpsmcayqmfz.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140719_131127_zpsltq317uf.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140719_124841_zps0dl69jxf.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140719_124947_zps8jct6fv6.jpg
dirtrulz
07-25-2014, 12:52
Generally long wheelbase makes everything but tight corners an really peaked hills easier. Like moab for instance. It seems that almost every obstacle has the exact spacing to make it very hard for stock wheelbase jeeps. Usually a toyota can drive up a lot of stuff jeeps have trouble with.
tmleadr03
07-25-2014, 14:16
Generally long wheelbase makes everything but tight corners an really peaked hills easier. Like moab for instance. It seems that almost every obstacle has the exact spacing to make it very hard for stock wheelbase jeeps. Usually a toyota can drive up a lot of stuff jeeps have trouble with.
This was my first mountain pass on dirt. I have to say a bump that I don't even notice on flat level surface will cause me to raise a welt on the seat on that trail. Espeically when it tilts the vehicle to the outside.
tmleadr03
08-18-2014, 07:43
Got to try out my new Fox 2.0 shocks! They are fantastic! Even loaded heavier then I was before I got them. I did some 25-30 mph driving through pretty rough terrain and it was easier to control, and incredibly smoother to drive. Would highly recommend.
Old and Busted:
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140725_163805_zps5gptmje4.jpg
New:
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140725_164610_zpscmltdspz.jpg
Now here is why it was heavier. This showed up in the mail this last week. Got a Kukenam Sky I ordered from Box Rocket (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/members/493-Box-Rocket). Incredibly easy to do business with. Got the tent to me with in a week of ordering. If I decide to get any more I will absolutely be calling him.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140814_111315_zpssapat0j0.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140814_112243_zpsbcfu6yzk.jpg
I went with Thule bars to mount it. I don't know how long I want to keep doing it as a roof top tent. Eventually I want to do a trailer top tent. The other reason for the Thule is there is less weight higher up. Boy am I glad I did that! More on that later.
This weekend I took my daughter camping in it. We stepped out friday night hoping to make it to the Crested Butte area before we stopped that night. Didn't make it, ended up just outside of Buena Vista. The San Isabel National Forest is on both sides and we were in the East side. I typically try to never hit the same trail twice but I had made a camp at this spot last time I was in the area and decided to hit it this night since it had already gotten dark out and the munchkin was knocked out already. Not to mention I was tired. So the first time I set up this Kukanam Sky was that night other them flipping it open in my shop. In the dark, doing it for the first time I got it set up in about 10 minutes. Note to everyone, the holes for the awnings still have some burs in them, don't feel around for them in the dark.
Next morning loaded up and headed back towards Crested Butte. Only we went via Cottenwood Pass. Added some time but the views were pretty good.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140816_092119_zps8zj2qlsy.jpg
Our goal was Pearl Pass. I wanted to find a good camping spot on the Crested Butte side of the top. That place has some absolutely lovely trails towards the bottom. Starts to get just a little technical as you get higher.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140816_122348_zps8vyzk4zp.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140816_130546_zpshdpm8fki.jpg
Some orthodontist is gonna make a decent month off my little girl... lol
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140816_131021_zpstoqpedhr.jpg
This is how easy the tent is the set up. The munchkin was getting cranky and it was nap time. Flat spot and less then 5 min later she was taking a nap. Ok, so was I...
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140816_133909_zpsy7oguesv.jpg
We found a camp site below the tree line and set up.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140816_173044_zpsnfcrgin1.jpg
Got dinner going.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140816_161035_zpspataz5ux.jpg
Even had a deer swing by after we were in the tent hiding from the mosquitoes. Kiddo was absolutely thrilled.
tmleadr03
08-18-2014, 07:43
Next morning packed up after some breakfast and headed to the top. The Crested Butte side has a couple of shelf roads but nothing major. The Cruiser felt a little more tippy, but that could be me. I am finding I don't like shelf roads much.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140817_083635_zpshkki4ptx.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140817_084456_zpsbger3z96.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140817_092617_zpsze2qnhhy.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140817_092635_zpsmavfik6o.jpg
I don't really have any pics of the part right after the pass. That is the hairy part. The shelf road is slightly washed out in a couple of spots. I was creeping along and I have to say, perhaps I am just a big wimp but when the cruiser leans away from the wall and over the edge I clench. Even when in my head I know it is barely any lean at all. Until it is. One of the washes I picked the best line I could see from the cab, really should have gotten out of the truck and walked it. I definitely did from here on out. Anyways the right front wheel went lower then I expected and the truck really felt tippy. So I opened the door up, stood up on the running board and looked back. At my rear tire hanging at full droop. I got the kid out. When I had her out I slowly stepped off the running board and onto the trail and the wheel came up a bit. That was... not fun. I pushed on it a bit and it didn't seem to be going anywhere so I got back in gingerly and made it through with my kid a few feet down the trail and one hand on the door handle. Sorry, no pics. It just wasn't a top priority at that point.
Rest of the way down was less exciting, though there is one section that I could have used a spotter for. I ended up getting out about 6 times to check my lines going through it and still managed to bang and bend up my trailer hitch.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140817_093626_zps7gnfqlk9.jpg
Just out of the technical part mentioned.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140817_103027_zpspn9lb8lg.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140817_103039_zpswhx4k2s3.jpg
It never looks as hard in pictures. But there are some nice drops for your wheels in there to get your lodged high center if you goof.
The rest of the way down at that point was smooth. The shocks are solid. The Tank handles completely different and better. I am really glad I didn't get a roof rack to put the tent on. Though I am going to do some research on what feet I can get that are a bit shorter.
ETA: Here is the camping spot I was at. I don't do the same trail twice so I wont be hording this one. It was a nice spot but the view was only ok. Slightly before and after the view was much better, but no fire pit.
38.96267,-106.83314
ruthabagah
08-18-2014, 09:22
Nice one. Thank you for sharing.
tmleadr03
08-26-2014, 16:23
Got a check engine on last weekends trip. O2 sensor number 2. Wiring diagrams call them left and right, not one and two. So lets just do both.
The nuts were all sorts of corroded. Ended up using a combination of vice grips and air hammer to get them off.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140826_160440_zpsoila34zo.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140826_160257_zpsiz4hfmln.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140826_160304_zpsvugwkaaj.jpg
Tune in next week to see what else needs fixin' on this gem...
tmleadr03
08-26-2014, 19:02
Tune in next week to see what else needs fixin' on this gem...
It only has 276K on it.
It's barely broken in. :D
Tune in next week to see what else needs fixin' on this gem...
It only has 276K on it.
Sounds like an Odometer swap is next.
Jeffrey Lebowski
08-26-2014, 20:15
That kind of sight seeing is the 4x4'ing I miss.
tmleadr03
08-26-2014, 20:48
Sounds like an Odometer swap is next.
If I can find a TRD supercharger for it that is the next swap. I will then track down a lower mileage engine, rebuild that one, slap the supercharger on it and swap it with the engine I have in there now. Perfection.
Sadly, those superchargers can't be had for love nor money.
hghclsswhitetrsh
08-26-2014, 20:52
This is a neat thread. I always come back when you do updates. Nice work!
hurley842002
08-26-2014, 21:02
This is a neat thread. I always come back when you do updates. Nice work!
Agreed
If I can find a TRD supercharger for it that is the next swap. I will then track down a lower mileage engine, rebuild that one, slap the supercharger on it and swap it with the engine I have in there now. Perfection.
Sick of double digit mpg already?
This is a neat thread. I always come back when you do updates. Nice work!
Agreed
+1
Sick of double digit mpg already?
+1
I get high teens. Worth it.
So did I, in a Tacoma. He might not even get high teens now.
tmleadr03
08-27-2014, 05:40
So did I, in a Tacoma. He might not even get high teens now.
With the addition of the tent? 12.6 mpg on my last trip. I actually think it would be the same or slightly better with a supercharger. At least on road trips. I typically get to speed and hit the cruise control and currently this engine struggles so much in the mountains it is only in overdrive a third of the time.
The other option is a chevy v8 swap. 5.3 or 6.0. But i am less then excited by gm products. I could get the toyota v8 i suppose.
I've seen someone put a Dodge diesel in one, but he stretched the game for the 6 cylinder.
tmleadr03
08-27-2014, 06:55
I've seen someone put a Dodge diesel in one, but he stretched the game for the 6 cylinder.
Even the 4bt requires a minimum of a 4 inch lift, which reqires alignment work since that changes the camber/caster too much. And over 3 in lift and you need driveline work or it will start to bind up. All in all even with a 4bt it is a 15-20k job to do it right. Just not gonna do that.
hurley842002
08-27-2014, 07:12
I like the fresh factory engine with supercharger idea. That's likely what I'll do with my Taco 3.4 once I get up there in miles. I'm sure an SC for my Taco is much easier to find than yours tho.
tmleadr03
08-27-2014, 07:50
I like the fresh factory engine with supercharger idea. That's likely what I'll do with my Taco 3.4 once I get up there in miles. I'm sure an SC for my Taco is much easier to find than yours tho.
TRD supercharger doesnt void a toyota warranty.
hurley842002
08-27-2014, 09:26
TRD supercharger doesnt void a toyota warranty.
Yeah TRD is the only SC I'd go with. I'm sure there are better performing units out there, but I'm a stickler for factory reliability.
I can tell you first-hand that my 4.0L supercharged Tacoma handles the increase in elevation better than my buddy's similar non-Supercharged truck does. His is constantly downshifting to the point where I thought maybe something was wrong with it but it was just that it was underpowered in all the wrong places for mountain driving. My truck doesn't break a sweat pulling trailers, up and down hills or both.
tmleadr03
08-27-2014, 10:39
I can tell you first-hand that my 4.0L supercharged Tacoma handles the increase in elevation better than my buddy's similar non-Supercharged truck does. His is constantly downshifting to the point where I thought maybe something was wrong with it but it was just that it was underpowered in all the wrong places for mountain driving. My truck doesn't break a sweat pulling trailers, up and down hills or both.
Which is the main reason I want to do it. Really it needs more air. At altitude it just can't get enough air to do anything. So it is a 2 gear at 45 mph going up 285.
tmleadr03
09-01-2014, 19:25
Decide that a three day weekend was going to do nothing but make the mountains crazy. So I went the other direction.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140901_095241_zpsd8kjedzu.jpg
Found a one horse town, and that horse was old and tired. Most of the shops were closed for good on main street, and all of them were closed on Sunday.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140831_113050_zpskffqsweu.jpg
Ended up here.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140831_133559_zpsga9ozyeb.jpg
Camped at Minatare Lake.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140831_173908_zpsqd8tghco.jpg
Had one small issue with the tent. Nuts.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140901_071058_zpscyjrf5co.jpg
Even Nebraska has hills.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140901_093852_zpsrkdsqx1q.jpg
Scottsbluff Nebraska... that's my old stomping grounds there.
BTW, those 'hills' are the Wildcats. That picture is taken on the south end after you cone back down out if them on highway 71 facing South. About 15min down the road towards Kimball just before the turn-off to Harrisburg is where I cut a deer in half on my motorcycle doing 120mph. Good times.
tmleadr03
09-01-2014, 19:49
Scottsbluff Nebraska... that's my old stomping grounds there.
BTW, those 'hills' are the Wildcats. That picture is taken on the south end after you cone back down out if them on highway 71 facing South. About 15min down the road towards Kimball just before the turn-off to Harrisburg is where I cut a deer in half on my motorcycle doing 120mph. Good times.
You must have stomped pretty hard, not much left out there.
You must have stomped pretty hard, not much left out there.
lol
Yeah... you got to see all if Scottsbluff alright.
hurley842002
09-01-2014, 20:11
Saw this little gem at the gym (no pun). Between your thread and seeing set up Land Cruiser's here and there, I'm really starting to want one.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/01/774cd802e09d8566bc6e4f342e27d171.jpg
What are we looking at in the picture about the issue with the tent?
tmleadr03
09-01-2014, 20:20
What are we looking at in the picture about the issue with the tent?
Missing nut. It busted off in the night and when I went to climb down the next morning the ladder swung under me. I hoped the rest of the way down and found the washer but the nut was no where. Rigged it long enough to button up the tent. I will redo that tomorrow.
Ahh, I see it now. Glad no issues while you were driving.
tmleadr03
09-01-2014, 21:43
Ahh, I see it now. Glad no issues while you were driving.
Except the fuel economy? Nope. Would be nice for the engine to at least have some power if it is going to suck that much fuel.
ruthabagah
09-02-2014, 06:02
Except the fuel economy? Nope. Would be nice for the engine to at least have some power if it is going to suck that much fuel.
I had the same problem with my last toyota! Get a lr4!
tmleadr03
09-07-2014, 16:13
So I explored how to get pulled out at 2 in the morning now. But lets start at the beginning.
After camping last weekend I cleaned out the cruiser. All the gear was dusty and dirty so into the garage waiting for some tlc from me. Yesterday I woke up, went to breakfast and decided "Hey, its a lovely day, lets go 4wheeling." So after we ate breakfast my daughter and I jumped in the cruiser and headed into the mountains. Figured I would run a couple of easy trails. Headed up to do Waldorf Mine and Argentine Pass. Beautiful day for it. Not what didn't get done? Reload the vehicle.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_105621_zpswbfenuw8.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_110654_zpscrqlj0gt.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_110759_zps7bymn2ts.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_115132_zpsrzptxeeq.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_120959_zpsoz3gf00l.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_121148_zpsj5timssd.jpg
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_121325_zpsmierufwf.jpg
On the way back I took the lower road and came to a T in the road with a water crossing. I checked my topo map (US Forest from 2013 and it showed a trail that ran the other side all the way back to the entrance of the valley) and hung a right and went for it. Entrance to the trail: https://goo.gl/maps/NWc3m If you click on that and turn on google earth you can see the switchbacks going up, then the trail following the valley and switch backs heading back down. The trail goes away shortly after here: https://goo.gl/maps/oe65t Some might say it was pretty well gone a few feet behind that location, since that is where I started to slide off the trail.
While it was still good.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_133948_zpsl91adaqg.jpg
And here is where the cruiser said nope. Or perhaps me. Whatever.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_143750_zpsyygxphdk.jpg
This is right when I started to slide. So I spent an hour trying to build a road under the left to decrease that slide long enough to back back up on to the trail. I put rocks, backed up onto the rocks a little, put rocks in front went forward a little then with that added under the tires I started building up behind and slowly going back. And I made it about 6 inches back and this far further down the side.
http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag113/bruunauto/20140906_154525_zps5ckcwwec.jpg
The cruiser was stable at this point. I could rock it and it wouldnt go anywhere so it wasnt leaning or rolling enough to be an issue. But I went sideways about two feet and the next slide to the left was going to drop that side another 3 to 5 in. Still not enough to roll it, but would have made the night even more uncomfortable sleeping in it if I had to. Also would have made getting out more and more difficult. I figured this point was a good time to say nope. By myself with my daughter I didn't want to play anymore stupid games. The ROI just wasnt worth it. With there still being light and someone else with me I would have kept trying to back out or something like that. Tires were at 16 psi.
Having a 6 year old with you complicates things. It was about 3 when I realized I was not going anywhere. Plenty of daylight. By myself I could have made the main trail in an hour. Humped down to Georgetown in 3 or 4 so right at twilight. This type of thing doesnt happen with a 6 year old. So I called for help. Lucky I had signal. Actually my phone had signal everywhere in this valley. I was texting at the top of the pass.
Blackford volunteered to come get me. Thank you! Get me your vin I will get you a mirror. His cell was not as robust as mine and he had signal at the entrance and every once and a while inside. My GPS co-ordinates didn't really translate to his GPS. This made things... difficult. Thankfully he met some Jeepers at the entrance to the valley who were about to air up. When they heard they said they would not let anyone be stuck overnight so they turned right around and came in to get me. They were very close about 10, but we couldn't hear or see each others signals. And they turned around and back tracked to check other trails. Eventually they found me at about 1 am.
They hooked up a winch to me, a snatch block to a tree up the hill a bit and pulled me up and out. We turned around about 100 ft down the trail and headed out. Once they found me it was easy money.
Things I learned.
1) Dont be a dumbass
2) If you are going to be a dumbass, bring a friend. That way if nothing else you have someone there to make fun of you right on the spot.
3) Need more gear. And good stuff. Winch wouldn't have gotten me out of that, but if I hadn't emptied the cruiser and not loaded back up I would have been much better off. Things to add after this mess; At least one more strap, I only have one. An official bracket to mount the highlift on so it doesn't get removed from the vehicle. A tree saver. Winch. LIGHTS!!!! Front light bar, back up lights, side lights. All of the light stuff is cheap and easy. Would have been nice. Comm gear. Perhaps a combination CB/HAM.
4) Probably more stuff to be added as I think about it more.
Bailey Guns
09-07-2014, 17:07
It must be deceptively steep in those last two photos because it doesn't look nearly as bad as it obviously was. Looking closely at the angle of the ground vs trees it looks steeper...45 deg maybe?
Zundfolge
09-07-2014, 17:12
Things I learned.
1) Dont be a dumbass
2) If you are going to be a dumbass, bring a friend. That way if nothing else you have someone there to make fun of you right on the spot.
3) Need more gear. And good stuff. Winch wouldn't have gotten me out of that, but if I hadn't emptied the cruiser and not loaded back up I would have been much better off. Things to add after this mess; At least one more strap, I only have one. An official bracket to mount the highlift on so it doesn't get removed from the vehicle. A tree saver. Winch. LIGHTS!!!! Front light bar, back up lights, side lights. All of the light stuff is cheap and easy. Would have been nice. Comm gear. Perhaps a combination CB/HAM.
4) Probably more stuff to be added as I think about it more.
You should enjoy these guy's videos then https://www.youtube.com/user/ExpeditionOverland Teamwork is the name of the game and your lesson #2 is an important one.
tmleadr03
09-07-2014, 19:01
It must be deceptively steep in those last two photos because it doesn't look nearly as bad as it obviously was. Looking closely at the angle of the ground vs trees it looks steeper...45 deg maybe?
I don't think the pics did it justice. But then I don't think pics ever do for steepness. But really it wasnt' super steep, it just kept moving further towards the left instead of back.
Did you have everything locked up? That might have been a case where you should not have been using a locker on the axle that was slipping. Then the wheel that isn't spinning, will help anchor the vehicle from side to side movement. That's just arm chair quarterbacking of course. I'm certainly no off-road guru.
Good call on playing it safe. Better that happened then you have your daughter get out while you try to get it back on the trail only to roll the vehicle or something bad. Glad you are both okay and made it back safely
HoneyBadger
09-07-2014, 20:45
How exactly were you stuck? I can't tell from the pictures.
tmleadr03
09-07-2014, 20:57
How exactly were you stuck? I can't tell from the pictures.
For every 6 inchs I moved back I was dropping 1 ft or more to the driver side. For every foot I dropped to the driver side I tilted another 10 degrees, which I think was increasing the slide as more weight was shifting to those tires. This was with me piling rocks under the tires trying to slow this and it was not exactly being successful. Both of those wheels were on a bit of a lip when I stopped trying, next was a quick 3-5 in drop if I slid that way anymore. Wouldn't have rolled the vehicle. Unless that sudden shift of weight cause more slide. It got steadily steeper the further towards that side you went.
blackford76
09-07-2014, 21:54
You can't see in the pics how sharply if drops off about a foot away from the downhill tires. Out in the boonies with his daughter, certainly the right call by waiting for help.
Great-Kazoo
09-07-2014, 22:00
You can't see in the pics how sharply if drops off about a foot away from the downhill tires. Out in the boonies with his daughter, certainly the right call by waiting for help.
Exactly. If he decided to go for it , rolled his vehicle and harm would have come to his daughter. The arm chair QB's would be screaming for his head. WHY DIDN'T YOU WAIT ????
HoneyBadger
09-07-2014, 22:31
Exactly. If he decided to go for it , rolled his vehicle and harm would have come to his daughter. The arm chair QB's would be screaming for his head. WHY DIDN'T YOU WAIT ????
Haha very true.
Remember when the mod on the Toyota off-road forum got drunk and drove his girlfriend's Tacoma off the side of Lion's Ridge or whatever? They went straight down into the ground from like 50 feet up. When I rolled my truck, everyone called me a retard for the rest of my time there. He puts him and his girlfriend nearly through the windshield from 50' up in the air and everyone was all, "OMG, we're so glad you're okay."
HoneyBadger
09-07-2014, 22:39
The internet is a funny place. [Dunno]
Good on Rob to go save your ass!
Great-Kazoo
09-07-2014, 22:46
The internet is a funny place. [Dunno]
Funny, how funny. Like a clown funny.
tmleadr03
09-07-2014, 22:56
Funny, how funny. Like a clown funny.
What? Are we fucking here for your amusment?
USMC88-93
09-07-2014, 23:12
At least you were not this guy, I would be interested to see pictures of the recovery of this one back up to the roadway.
http://www.colorado4x4.org/vbb/showthread.php?214045-Black-Bear-Pass-Roll-Off
kawiracer14
09-08-2014, 09:09
Do you think MaxTrax would have helped here with getting traction?
Sent from my fancy pants mobile device
Alf Tanner
09-08-2014, 10:21
Glad you got out alright. Any pics of the winching operation?
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
tmleadr03
09-08-2014, 10:27
Glad you got out alright. Any pics of the winching operation?
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Sorry no. It was very dark by 1 am when they got there. I think someone from the group snapped a pic of my rig before they started yanking me. But not during.
Any comment on whether you had the axles locked or not, and if you think it would have made a difference now that you are out of there?
spqrzilla
09-08-2014, 12:40
Good report guy. Its funny but sometimes the worse stucks are in places that don't look that challenging. Often that's the trap, something subtle like loose gravel perfectly located at an angled spot.
Glad everyone got out uninjured. Hope that your daughter was not too scared, just a little scare adds to the adventure. ;-)
tmleadr03
09-08-2014, 12:56
Any comment on whether you had the axles locked or not, and if you think it would have made a difference now that you are out of there?
I rolled into that with unlocked axles. I typically travel unlocked unless the trail looks steep or more technical since it takes a bit for the rear to lock. I can get the front locked in just a few feet but the rear can take a significantly longer time. The experienced jeepers who showed up didn't actually want me locked since if I lost traction it would cause both sides to lose traction in that condition.
tmleadr03
09-08-2014, 13:14
Do you think MaxTrax would have helped here with getting traction?
Sent from my fancy pants mobile device
Nope. Those would have kept me from sinking in something but this wasn't a sinking feeling I was getting.
newracer
09-08-2014, 14:52
Any comment on whether you had the axles locked or not, and if you think it would have made a difference now that you are out of there?
I rolled into that with unlocked axles. I typically travel unlocked unless the trail looks steep or more technical since it takes a bit for the rear to lock. I can get the front locked in just a few feet but the rear can take a significantly longer time. The experienced jeepers who showed up didn't actually want me locked since if I lost traction it would cause both sides to lose traction in that condition.
Exactly, locked axles are not good when it is very slippery on a side hill.
A winch and a snatch block would have gotten you out on your own.
tmleadr03
09-08-2014, 15:04
Exactly, locked axles are not good when it is very slippery on a side hill.
A winch and a snatch block would have gotten you out on your own.
Wasn't much in front to grab. And If I went forward I would have still had to come back on that section. I have been thinking and a come along to the rear bumper, put the vehicle in neutral and walk it back slowly.
Currently on my list of things to get is another strap. A kinetic strap. A chain. A come along. A winch. Lots of lights. Second battery to run the lights independently from the vehicle running. I am going to build a short shelf in the back to make room for all that to live in the cruiser all the time.
newracer
09-08-2014, 15:21
You might consider a winch on a mount that will go into a receiver hitch. Then you could use it on the front or rear.
rockhound
09-08-2014, 15:23
i disagree with your assertion that a winch would not have helped, a winch would have easily rescued that truck, self recovery is one of the beautiful things they can accomplish. they can do way more than just pull you forward..
set up with the right combinations of snatch blocks, and not only would your winch have pulled you forward but also to the right, slowly and safely, with some experience winching you can do almost anything. feeling like you are out of control and improperly equipped you did the right thing. most importantly to get home safely, getting hurt in the back country with others who you are responsible for would be bad,
before you buy any other piece of equipment get yourself a winch, several snatch blocks, a good tree saver, gloves, and 2 or three d rings,
the winches are so cheap these days $299.00 its all the winch you need,,, http://www.4wheelparts.com/Winches-Winch-Accessories/LP8500-Winch.aspx?t_c=18&t_s=300&t_pt=100702&t_pn=SWI1585202
even has the winch rope, a nice upgrade, already on it....
KevDen2005
09-08-2014, 17:20
Heard about what happened too late. Didn't see the thread. I'm glad you're good man, would have come up for you. And everyone is an internet tough guy, you do one little thing (not necessarily a mistake) that causes something bad and you're always labeled an idiot. There are other factors usually involved.
Harbor Freight: http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/small_image/160x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_23566.jpg (http://www.harborfreight.com/9000-lb-off-road-vehicle-electric-winch-with-automatic-load-holding-brake-61325.html)9000 Lb. Off-Road Vehicle Electric Winch With Automatic Load-Holding Brake (http://www.harborfreight.com/9000-lb-off-road-vehicle-electric-winch-with-automatic-load-holding-brake-61325.html)
Item #61325 Only: $399.99 Sale: $299.99
rockhound
09-08-2014, 18:03
for the same money get the name brand,
HoneyBadger
09-08-2014, 18:04
Heard about what happened too late. Didn't see the thread. I'm glad you're good man, would have come up for you. And everyone is an internet tough guy, you do one little thing (not necessarily a mistake) that causes something bad and you're always labeled an idiot. There are other factors usually involved.
Meh. Everyone makes mistakes. I'm glad this one turned out okay. It gets mighty cold up in those mountains at night!
tmleadr03
09-08-2014, 19:07
How about this one? I figure with the heavy pig I am rocking 10k would be better.
http://www.4wheelparts.com/Winches-Winch-Accessories/X2O-10K-Waterproof-Synthetic-Rope-Wireless-Winch-Gen2-with-Fairlead.aspx?t_c=18&t_s=300&t_pt=100702&t_pn=S%2fB98510
rockhound
09-08-2014, 19:48
whatever floats your boat, except that would be over kill,,,,
i run a smitty 10,000k on my 3/4 ton crew cab. do not forget that the pull rating on a winch can be doubled just by properly adding a snatch block
Used properly, the multi-purpose snatch block can double the pulling power of any winch, or change your pulling direction without damaging the wire rope. They also help to reduce heat build up and amp draw.
winching basics.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCQQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.warn.com%2Fcorporate%2Fimages %2F90%2FTechGuide_PN62885-A2.pdf&ei=NFwOVKCQMsG2ogSZ4YHICw&usg=AFQjCNFzrJPddh8a3tRoRTxb7EyQLY0DJw
rockhound
09-08-2014, 19:53
stock cub weight on your landcruiser should be about 5700 lbs,
all my jeeps have had an 8,000 lbd rated winch, usually smitty builts, i feel they have a better line speed and allow more control than warn winches, it has been a while since i used one, they used to have a high line speed, when doing delicate work i felt they were a bit out of control. JMHO dont get in a twist anybody.
i have used the 8,000 lb winches to recover everything from a honda in a snowy ditch to 3/4 ton crew cabs buried in the mud. and all manner of rocky trail mayhem.
imho, the 8500 is a cost effective tool with plenty of power to do what you need to do. the $200 you save on the winch will outfit the rest of your recovery gear.
newracer
09-08-2014, 20:04
I have always heard you want at least double the curb weight.
Great-Kazoo
09-08-2014, 20:12
whatever floats your boat, except that would be over kill,,,,
i run a smitty 10,000k on my 3/4 ton crew cab. do not forget that the pull rating on a winch can be doubled just by properly adding a snatch block
Used properly, the multi-purpose snatch block can double the pulling power of any winch, or change your pulling direction without damaging the wire rope. They also help to reduce heat build up and amp draw.
winching basics.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCQQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.warn.com%2Fcorporate%2Fimages %2F90%2FTechGuide_PN62885-A2.pdf&ei=NFwOVKCQMsG2ogSZ4YHICw&usg=AFQjCNFzrJPddh8a3tRoRTxb7EyQLY0DJw
I don't off road or have a winch, however that is good info to have on hand.
... you do one little thing (not necessarily a mistake) that causes something bad and you're always labeled an idiot. There are other factors usually involved.
I get labelled an idiot all the time, no public disclosure of mistakes required...
I get labelled an idiot all the time, no public disclosure of mistakes required...
Aaahhh...a married man, for sure.
rockhound
09-08-2014, 21:02
I have always heard you want at least double the curb weight.
four wheeler.com says 30% over gvw: To figure how much winch your vehicle needs, add at least 30 percent to the working GVW
From: http://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/129-0502-4x4-winching-guide-winch-selection/#ixzz3CmemZan4
tmleadr03
09-09-2014, 08:33
Eventually I want to move the tent to a off-road trailer. Which would increase the amount of weight I would need to pull potentially. Though the intention with the trailer is to drop it in a central location and go explore.
rockhound
09-09-2014, 09:11
choose the winch you desire for sure, as long as your are better prepared that is the goal overall
KevDen2005
09-09-2014, 09:58
Aaahhh...a married man, for sure.
Well Played
henpecked
09-09-2014, 10:07
http://www.frontrange4x4.com/forums/showthread.php?22092-Argentine-Pass-McClelland-9-6-14
http://www.frontrange4x4.com/forums/showthread.php?22092-Argentine-Pass-McClelland-9-6-14
Outed. [Tooth]
Always liked the off roading community's willingness to help others.
Kudos to those that were able to help. [Beer]
Never heard of FR4x4. Looks interesting. Gave up on one of the big local off road sites years ago.
henpecked
09-09-2014, 10:36
Nice bunch of guys, no BS like colorado 4x4
I would steer clear of the Harbor Freight winches (whoeever it was that suggested one). I had one on my YJ and it never worked right when I needed it most (remote issues, leaks, etc.). My TJ had a Superwinch and I never had an issue with it. I have also used Warn and Smittybuilt and they are great as well.
I am glad you all made it out ok. I bet you will never leave hom without your gear again! I did once when I was young and spent the night with a friend in some deep mud in the middle of nowhere in Idaho. And don't let poeple make you feel like an idiot, wheelers learn the hard way sometimes, and every single one of us makes a mistake! What matters is you learned from it, and you handled it well.
HoneyBadger
09-09-2014, 11:21
Outed. [Tooth]
Always liked the off roading community's willingness to help others.
Tmleadr, you gotta register over there and say thanks to those guys!
tmleadr03
09-09-2014, 12:37
Tmleadr, you gotta register over there and say thanks to those guys!
I was actually planning on it yesterday but didn't get around to it. Heading over there now.
ETA: Just registered and now I have to wait for an admin to contact me to confirm my admission to that site.
Jeffrey Lebowski
09-09-2014, 13:31
I had one on my YJ and it never worked right when I needed it most (remote issues, leaks, etc.). My TJ had a Superwinch and I never had an issue with it. I have also used Warn and Smittybuilt and they are great as well.
I'd never heard of Smittybuilt winches until this thread.
I had Warn M8000s on my YJ and same on my ZJ in an ARB bumper. They were awesome and I miss both. The warns sure never failed me and I used the hell out of the one in the YJ.
As mentioned, I liked the 1/3 above rule of thumb (or more), so even though I have the bumper for my truck, I'm thinking I'd want at least a 10,000 if not 12. Was hoping to save by going with Superwinch, but even that is $$$.
So, I don't really 4x4 much anymore. Not that a 1-ton diesel truck is ideal anyway.
rockhound
09-09-2014, 15:52
i keep a winch on my 3/4 ton because it is a tool not because i wheel it. i have not had to rescue myself yet, but several times a year i will pull someone out of a snow bank and if i need it for myself its there. when i commute it is over 285 through park county, harsh weather is always a game changer out there.
Nice bunch of guys, no BS like colorado 4x4
How did you know who I was talking about? [LOL]
Big Wall
09-10-2014, 18:38
Check this trip out Chris. I ran it last weekend with my family. They all had a great time. The link to sign up for the tour with the Forest Service is in Trail Damage's write up.
http://www.traildamage.com/trails/index.php?id=436
Outed. [Tooth]
Always liked the off roading community's willingness to help others.
Kudos to those that were able to help. [Beer]
Never heard of FR4x4. Looks interesting. Gave up on one of the big local off road sites years ago.
Agreed, never really got "in" to the other forum. Just registered at FR4x4...
gnihcraes
09-10-2014, 20:01
You would have paid good money to have a winch. Go ahead and pay for a good one just in case there is a next time.
tmleadr03
09-10-2014, 20:04
You would have paid good money to have a winch. Go ahead and pay for a good one just in case there is a next time.
I have bought everything but the lights. I am waiting on a aux fuse panel and then I will wire up some toggle switches, lots of lights and be totally ready for a night "Oh Shit!".
Nice bunch of guys, no BS like colorado 4x4
How did you know who I was talking about? [LOL]
They are pretty dead over there now, some of the old timers still around but the place got really plagued with the "clicks" and saw many newbies and mainstays leave and never come back. I still love my NAXJA boys though. Front range I never really got on, not out of wheeling just haven't played in awhile due to cost of operating and running trails.
Always liked the off roading community's willingness to help others.
Even outside of the Toy, Jeep, Chevy, Ford inner rivalries most off-roaders help each other or anyone for that matter. I have spent many delayed afternoons helping get someone get off the trail or back down the hill to get help.
..............there are a few jerks as in any community though, I have had my fair share of them as well.
rockhound
09-10-2014, 21:28
i have been running the smitty builts for years on several different rigs, the only reason i got rid of any of them is cause i sold the truck it was on. I would trust them beyond a doubt. they have performed flawlessly time and time again. i have used them to do everything from rescues trucks to securely fell a leaning tree.
hurley842002
09-10-2014, 21:36
Check this trip out Chris. I ran it last weekend with my family. They all had a great time. The link to sign up for the tour with the Forest Service is in Trail Damage's write up.
http://www.traildamage.com/trails/index.php?id=436
That's where I grew up, lots of cool stuff to see down that way.
..............there are a few jerks as in any community though
Well, except this community, right?
Right?
;)
tmleadr03
09-11-2014, 07:40
Well, except this community, right?
Right?
;)
I hear the OP is a bit of a jackass...
Well, except this community, right?
Right?
;)
Yes Brian, this community has been a good positive experience. In all seriousness everyone on here so far has been a bunch of good people. [Beer]
Except for that abrasive guy who is worse than some who has been playing in the sand all day with a speedo on...................
I hear the OP is a bit of a jackass...
[Coffee]
Great-Kazoo
09-11-2014, 21:19
I hear the OP is a bit of a jackass...
So would that be a 1/2 ass ? You touch bases with my nephew amid everything else.
tmleadr03
09-11-2014, 21:40
So would that be a 1/2 ass ? You touch bases with my nephew amid everything else.
Been a bit distracted. I will.
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