Project B2R- Not 56K friendly

[Maverick]

Some of you may remember that I started this build on the other board. The project had about six months of down time and then the old board was taken over and I lost my thread. The project is now on the chopping block once again. Here's a run down of the build and parts so far:

85 BII frame
87 Ranger body
3" wheelbase stretch
Refreshed 2.9 with 58MM TB and Pacesetter headers
Rebuilt/beefed C5 with shift kit and new torque converter
4.0 radiator with SPAL electric fan
D30 from 97 XJ, Ford radius arm suspension, 4.88's/Aussie locker, 760X joints w/ tacked caps
Explorer 8.8 with 4.88's/Eaton E-locker
Bronco Graveyard (Deaver) 3.5" superflex 190 lbs per inch coils
Trail Gear Toyota 3" 235 lbs per inch leafs
35" Procomp M/T's on 15X8 Cragar soft 8's
D.D. Machine doubler
Partsmike 1 ton steering

Here's a few pics of how it started:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/Copyof10.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/Copyof72906_030.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/Copyof72906_032.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_0031.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/DSCI0002.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_0036.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/CopyofIMG_0055.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/CopyofIMG_0056.jpg

Here's how it sits this afternoon, ready to start throwing the suspension under it:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/CopyofIMG_0595.jpg

Fan mounted on a shroud that my buddy fabbed up for me:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/CopyofIMG_0597.jpg

The new coils courtesy of Deaver :cool:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/CopyofIMG_0598.jpg

Progress should start next week. I'll keep y'all updated :icon_cheers:

[samsonitesamsonite]

let me know how those springs flex out

[rickcdewitt]

saw you're using a d30 from a cherokee and thought i'de suggest a warn lockout hub conversion kit like the one i just put on a buddys xj.it uses the ford style warn hubs and has sevicable bearings and seals.its easy to install in a day and will get you a couple mpg versus the unit bearing set up.it is 1200$ though but saving 8$ per fill up it pays for itself in a few years

[hairyboxnoogle]

Are you going to flat bed it or cut down the ranger bed? Btw, looks cool!

[danger88ranger]

Are you going to flat bed it or cut down the ranger bed? Btw, looks cool!

i was wondering the same thing, rig is lookin good :icon_thumby:

[PARKINGLOT]

looks good...real good actually...nice build!

[Maverick]

Are you going to flat bed it or cut down the ranger bed? Btw, looks cool!

I'll be using a cut down bed, wanna make it look like Ranger.

[Not All There]

nice progress, good luck with the rest of it.

[hifooy07]

looks good

[Maverick]

Some updates. I got the rear susension figured out. I bought a set of Trail-Gear (toyota) 3" springs. They basically bolt right in. It came out to about 6" of lift for the rear. For the price ($199), the apparent quatlity, and the spring rate (235) I felt I came out good. It did move the rear axle back even futher though, about another 1.5". I might have to massage the gas tank skid plate, maybe even the tank itself for clearance at full compression. Now that I know where the rear axle is gonna set, I can now start the bed bobbing process.

I f**ked up on installing the c-wedges on the front axle. Now I have to remove them and do some grinding and put them back on. Right now they're to far apart to get the radius arm to join together over them. Guess I shoulda checked that before welding them on :pissedoff:. It's coming along though. I get some pics up when I get something done thats pic worthy.

[Sunk]

Sweet, I've always liked the Ranger cab on Bronco frame conversions.

[Big Red Ranger]

thats sweet

[Maverick]

Ordered a doubler on thursday, got the engine bay buttoned up and almost ready to fire off :icon_hornsup:

[Maverick]

Some pics to keep things interesting. One things for sure, I dont see the need for extended arms or heims unless your're running some long coils.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_0814.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_0815.jpg

This old bumper jack sure has been handy for the swap.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_0817.jpg

[red85]

Nice project you have there. That looks like a really nice shop to work in. Is that at your house or is it somewhere else?

[Maverick]

Nice project you have there. That looks like a really nice shop to work in. Is that at your house or is it somewhere else?

It's my dads auto/marine repair shop. We're actually in the process of building a bigger shop right now. Can't wait cause I get my own 20'X40' fabrication bay :yahoo:

[Maverick]

So I got the front suspension completely mocked up this last week. Now I just have to pull everything back out, finish welding the wedges on paint everything and put it back together. I also ordered and recieved my steering last week (partsmike, great guys and fast shipping). I need to order a reamer for the knuckles and pitman arm so I can get that on. Still trying to figure out how im gonna do my track bar set up. Im still waiting on the doubler. But hey, im still making progress. Needs to be finished for this summer :3gears:

[Maverick]

So I keep getting held up, one thing after another. I have yet to find a framerail harness that I need to make this thing run. I can't find a C5 dipstick. I have yet to recieve any info on when my doubler is going to be done and shipped. I let my dads buddy talk me into letting him ream the knuckles for me (he owns a machine shop) and he forgot and reamed them from the bottom side rendering them useless to me. So now I have to go buy another set of knuckles from the junkyard. The guy who was going to set up my 8.8 bailed on me so now I'm gonna just buy the tools and learn how to do it myself. I "was" making forward progress. :pissedoff:

[tubed98]

come on setting up an 8.8 is easy, i did mine after paying somebody to do my last one and it lasted way longer! the axles snapped in half before the gears ever thought of blowin up! :icon_rofl: i just bolted them in and guessed and it worked great i was close enough it worked!! :icon_hornsup: of course it wasn't in there very long either before i slammed the 9" in. i have faith in you man :scare:

[Dusty_Ranger]

ummmmm...... bump

[Branman]

Hey its good to see ya, before you start on the bed let me know and i can give you a few tips.

[Maverick]

Hey its good to see ya, before you start on the bed let me know and i can give you a few tips.

Thanks for the offer. Still waiting on parts. :pissedoff:

[Totalled]

I can't find a C5 dipstick.

Do you still need one of these?

[Maverick]

Do you still need one of these?

I sure do. Infact im still waiting on the all the rest of it too.

[Maverick]

A little update. I got my steering issues resolved. I picked up a parts BII for free so now I will have my framerail harness so I can get the dang thing running. I just got the boot off my ankle (broke it a while ago) so I can get back to work on it. The best news is that I finally got ahold of Duffy at D.D. machine, the 1350 kits are finished and my doubler is actually on it's way. I never thought this day would come, it's been 5 months in the making! :yahoo:
Updates to follow :headbang:

[Maverick]

Got my steering mocked up. Between flipping the tie rods and using a 4" drop pitman the draglink angle looks good. The springs obviously aren't in it but it's at static ride height.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1050.jpg

I'm also currently working on my doubler.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1049.jpg

Next order of business is ordering up some DOM and rod ends to make my trac bar. Ahhhh... progress! :icon_hornsup:

[sweetsride]

hay, nice build, i am stating one myself after flipping my b2.. what did you do for rear cab mounts, got any closser pics??

thanks
kris

[Maverick]

hay, nice build, i am stating one myself after flipping my b2.. what did you do for rear cab mounts, got any closser pics??

thanks
kris

For the rear cab mounts I just took the stock mount and welded it to a piece of 2X4X.250 wall box tubing and welded it to the top of the frame (I added a pic to the first page for you) . I'm actually in the process of re-engineering those though. I'm removing both body mounts and that crossmember and replacing it with a beefy 1 piece unit that will be welded in. The cage will poke through the floor and tie into it. I'll have it done soon and will post up some pics.

[mjonesjr]

Looks amazing. I like it!

MORE PICTURES!

[Dishtowel]

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/CopyofIMG_0595.jpg


(I dont know how the read thumbs down thing got up there, and I dont know how to get rid of it. Thumbs down is the exact opposite of my sentiments about this build)

Nice rims :thefinger: , this build looks pretty cleanclean so far. Good work man. Keep it up.

I dream of one day doing this with a extended cab onto my frame. What really helps my schemeing (and makes me unproductive at work) is a good, square with the world, side picture of B2R.

I want to 3 link the rear and push it back, this will interfere with the gas tank. Thus I would move it ahead of the axle and mount it UP abit. This will also allow a winch mounted between the frame rails at the rear. Just me dreaming.

[Live 2B OffRoad]

looks really good

[Maverick]

Updating because I haven't in a while, but I'm actually working on it now. Here is the frame end trac-bar bracket I fabbed last weekend. It uses the steering box bolts to mount. I'll probably run another brace off it to the engine cross member. Haven't decided for sure yet though, it's pretty stout as it is.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1127.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1130.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1132.jpg

For the trac-bar itself, I'm using a 3/4 heim joint on the frame end and a Ballistic bushing on the housing end. A chunk of DOM tubing fill the gap between them.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/IMG_1075.jpg

I plan on getting the axle end trac-bar braket fabbed this weekend. After that, I'll pull the D30 back out, wire wheel it, paint it, install the Aussie locker, new diff cover and throw it back in. I did take a pic of it supporting its own weight the other day (the bumper jack is being held up by the C-clamps :thefinger:).

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1134.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1133.jpg

[Maverick]

Got a few things done on saturday. Pulled the carrier on the D30, installed the Aussie locker and then re-installed the carrier. My trac-bar is cut to length, welded up and finished. I fabbed up the lower trac-bar mount and tacked it on the axle. I'll probably finish burning it on after I pull the front end to paint it. I ended up reaming out my stock pitman arm and replacing the 4" drop I had on there because I wouldn't have been able to to get my trac-bar angle to match it with out a bunch of extra work.

Finished trac-bar.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/IMG_1143.jpg

Cute little guy isn't it?

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/IMG_1147.jpg

Stock arm re-installed.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/IMG_1149.jpg

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/IMG_1150.jpg

[mjonesjr]

Looks good!

[koda6966]

Can't wait to see a bed on it someday. I love BII/Rangers.

[countryboy111789]

I have been reading up on the D30 SAS and had thought of doing it to my 92 Ranger 4X2 I was wondering if you could give me the spec's on the steering and the trac bar. Thanks

[Maverick]

As of today, the 4.88's and the E-locker are installed in the 8.8. Now I just need to burn the new spring pads/shocks mounts on and paint it so I can install it.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1165.jpg

This past week I've been waiting for parts to show up so I did some cleaning and removed the big fawkin' boat behind my truck. Not only did I gain a bunch of room to work but I was also able to roll my truck back and put it on the lift.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1164.jpg

[rickcdewitt]

are those yota springs for the rear of the old solid axle yota's?

[Maverick]

Yes they are. Here's a link: http://www.trail-gear.com/leafsprings.html

[Branman]

Looks good, I like the sas your doing. I am going to do the same before to much longer.

[Hahnsb2]

Lookin good. Any particular reason for running radius arms over the y-link long arms since the axle was set up for that originally?

[rickcdewitt]

Yes they are. Here's a link: http://www.trail-gear.com/leafsprings.htmlnot that you have much bed but what are your impressions on flex and load cap. for those leaves?

Lookin good. Any particular reason for running radius arms over the y-link long arms since the axle was set up for that originally?you mean like the rubi express kit?the upper 4 link mounts sit too high,the regular rad bushings are a lot lower. every time i look at this truck i think about swapping in the 97 cherokee d30 in my scrap pile.

[Maverick]

Lookin good. Any particular reason for running radius arms over the y-link long arms since the axle was set up for that originally?

What rick said. The upper four link mounts are too high. I've seen people running that set up, but they must have limited up travel. With my current set up, I should be able to compress the coils till the wraps touch and not have any clearance issues. Plus, I got all the arms, brackets, buckets etc. for the radius arm set up for free.

not that you have much bed but what are your impressions on flex and load cap. for those leaves?



I've seen these springs in action on some yota's, the flex very well. They might actually be just a tad stiff for my application because of the light weight/short wheelbase. I might end up taking a leaf out, we'll just have to see how well they work first though. On a regular ranger or extended cab with a little more weight they would be perfect. I wasn't really worried about load rating for my rig because it's going to be primarily a wheeling rig. The most I could ever see hauling in the back would be 500-600lbs. max worth of camping gear, tools, and a spare. I definatley wouldn't be purchasing these springs if I ever intended on hauling 1000 lbs. or more. Atleast not without the addition of extended bump stops or something to limit down travel so as to not damage the springs.

[Hahnsb2]

What rick said. The upper four link mounts are too high. I've seen people running that set up, but they must have limited up travel. With my current set up, I should be able to compress the coils till the wraps touch and not have any clearance issues. Plus, I got all the arms, brackets, buckets etc. for the radius arm set up for free.

Makes sense now :icon_thumby:

[Maverick]

All torn apart again! Getting everything painted up and waiting on some u-bolts for the rear.

I hate looking at it like this, but it's the last time it will be apart (until I break or upgrade)

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1177.jpg

While the D30 was out I decided to add a truss. I had some 1/4"X5" flat bar laying around which worked out great. Making a template out of cardboard:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1173.jpg

After a little work with the plasma, grinder, and welder I ended up with this:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1174.jpg

I also added new brakes to the 8.8 and welded the tubes up on it. Didn't get much else done this weekend because I had people stopping by B.S.ing me.

[Hahnsb2]

Cool, I was about to say truss the 30 :icon_thumby:

[truckmanson]

Looks great, can't wait to see it done

[mjonesjr]

That looks awesome!

[rickcdewitt]

lookin good,are you going to add a gusset to the track bar mount?

i guess the unit bearings don't bother you.at least you can swap em and the axleshaft out in a hurry(lug nuts,caliper bolts and spindle bolts) and you don't need to ever service them after watercrossing,mud,etc.
my brother has replaced his once but considering the trucks mileage and his lack of concern for bearing maintenance i'de say its win-win except the mileage loss on highway from the lack of hubs.

[Maverick]

lookin good,are you going to add a gusset to the track bar mount?

In what way do you mean? It's pretty stout as it is, I'm not sure that it needs to be gusseted. The lower part of the mount is .250 wall 2"X2" square tube with the upper being 3/16" plate. As you can see the truss also ties into it from the side.

i guess the unit bearings don't bother you.at least you can swap em and the axleshaft out in a hurry(lug nuts,caliper bolts and spindle bolts) and you don't need to ever service them after watercrossing,mud,etc.
my brother has replaced his once but considering the trucks mileage and his lack of concern for bearing maintenance i'de say its win-win except the mileage loss on highway from the lack of hubs.

You nailed it on my thoughts of the unit bearings. As far as mileage is concerned, I'm not to worried about it. I've accepted the fact it will probably get poor mileage due to the lack of overdrive and low gearing. Between that, being soft sprung, rather tall, and having a short wheelbase I don't think it will see a whole lot of highway use.

[rickcdewitt]

In what way do you mean? It's pretty stout as it is, I'm not sure that it needs to be gusseted.your right the truss is half-way up the 2x2 stock and it does look pretty beefy.

but i was really thinking that those mounts are the only thing thats been an ongoing issue with my bro's tj and he doesn't drive near as hard as me.i might cut out a triangle to fit along like in the pic because the mount is kinda tall.sorry to knitpick:thefinger:
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff314/rickcdewitt/mod-1.jpg



You nailed it on my thoughts of the unit bearings. As far as mileage is concerned, I'm not to worried about it. yeah it doesn't matter on a trail rig,and is kinda nice and simple as far as spare parts.i don't even own a heep and i have two sets of axle shaft/unit bearings sitting in the garage ready to go:icon_confused:.makes me want to build a little trail rig that my 33" boggers would seem big on:icon_rofl:

[Maverick]

After a industrial size tub of turd polish:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/CopyofIMG_1200.jpg

[sluginxlt]

awsome project you got going. i was thinking about doin a d30 in my truck also with 79 radius arms, my question is, are the c bushing wedges regular steal or are the a casting? ive done a lot of mig welding and a little tig, but ive never done anything with a cast steal. can you mig it just as you would regular steal?

[sluginxlt]

also one more quick question? do the wedges have the correct contour or are the danna 44s a bigger tube? and if they are bigger what did you do to make them work?

[crawlin91]

wow. nice build so far, cant wait to see it progress

[Maverick]

awsome project you got going. i was thinking about doin a d30 in my truck also with 79 radius arms, my question is, are the c bushing wedges regular steal or are the a casting? ive done a lot of mig welding and a little tig, but ive never done anything with a cast steal. can you mig it just as you would regular steal?

They are a casting, but it's no big deal. You can weld cast steel just as easy as mild steel. Just preheat the weld area (around 500F, I use a digital heat gun) before welding and it melts like butter. I use a MIG for everything.

also one more quick question? do the wedges have the correct contour or are the danna 44s a bigger tube? and if they are bigger what did you do to make them work?

Those wedges are designed for 2.75" axle tubes (D44) but the truth is they fit a 3.25" tube about perfect. The contour runs big. I used some 3/16" plate steel strips top and bottom of the wedges to fill the gap. I tacked the wedges on, stuffed in the filler plate, welded that to the housing, and then burned it all together. It's pretty simple and rather self explanatory when you have it all sitting in front of you to look at.

[Roger]

Just curious where this project stands.

[Maverick]

Currently Im trying to locate a manual 1354 t-case. Once I do that I can assemble and install the doubler, which will allow me to find and set the correct pinion angle for my rear end. Besides that I've just been doing a bunch of unexciting BS work that needs to get done. The last time my front axle was in I found some clearance issues with my steering and trac-bar. I went ahead and solved the problems once the axle was out. I took about 2" off the front of the engine crossmember and then added a chunk of flatbar to cap it off.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1228.jpg

For the trac-bar I just notched out the center of the crossmember.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1229.jpg

[Maverick]

Got the front end back in today, for good. The only things left to do up front now are mount the shock towers, run the brake lines, and come up with some bumpstops.

Finished trac-bar mount, added an extra bolt for insurance.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1250.jpg

A few pics to give you and idea of how close everything gets at full compression, and the reason I need bumpstops.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1243.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1244.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1245.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1246.jpg

And a few pics assembled

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1249.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1247.jpg

The rear Toyota springs were basically a bolt in affair. The only changes that were made was enlarging the front hanger bolts to 5/8", and using a big 5/8" flat washer on each side of the bushing to make it a tight fit (2.25" wide vs. the Ranger 2.5" wide springs).

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1254.jpg

[96RedRanger]

this build is awesome. I wish my dad would let me do this lol........

[Sunk]

:icon_thumby: Sweet....

What's with the angled coils?

[Maverick]

:icon_thumby: Sweet....

What's with the angled coils?

The coils will both be angled in a little bit, thats just the way it turned out. The lower springs buckets are as far apart as I could get them on the axle. Had I been able to spread them apart another 1" or so there probably wouldnt be any angle to them. Im not worried about a little angle anyhow. I've seen other rigs with more angle than im running and they work just fine. In the pic the passenger side is way angled in because the suspension is for the most part unloaded and the axle is shifted to the driverside. Once its down at ride height it wont be near as bad, and the steering and trac-bar angles wont be as severe. Im sure I also have some adjusting to do my trac-bar.

[Sunk]

The coils will both be angled in a little bit, thats just the way it turned out. The lower springs buckets are as far apart as I could get them on the axle. Had I been able to spread them apart another 1" or so there probably wouldnt be any angle to them. Im not worried about a little angle anyhow. I've seen other rigs with more angle than im running and they work just fine. In the pic the passenger side is way angled in because the suspension is for the most part unloaded and the axle is shifted to the driverside. Once its down at ride height it wont be near as bad, and the steering and trac-bar angles wont be as severe. Im sure I also have some adjusting to do my trac-bar.

Ahh ok, I kinda noticed there wasn't much room on the knuckle side of the coils. But if it works, it works. Looking good, I like it. :icon_thumby:

[Roger]

I'm liking a lot of this build. Specifically, I like the trackbar mount. Very nice work on that. Also, the cutdown engine crossmember, When I slip the D30 under my Ranger I'm going to see if I need to clearance that crossmember. I also like the simple plate truss on the axle. Since I'm using a CAD HP D30, I'm wondering if a single 1/4" piece of plate will be best or if I could use a piece of 1.5" DOM tube between the diff housing and the CAD housing to support the upper control arm mounts...

What Toyota springs are you using? Or, did I miss that?

[Maverick]

I'm liking a lot of this build. Specifically, I like the trackbar mount. Very nice work on that. Also, the cutdown engine crossmember, When I slip the D30 under my Ranger I'm going to see if I need to clearance that crossmember. I also like the simple plate truss on the axle. Since I'm using a CAD HP D30, I'm wondering if a single 1/4" piece of plate will be best or if I could use a piece of 1.5" DOM tube between the diff housing and the CAD housing to support the upper control arm mounts...

What Toyota springs are you using? Or, did I miss that?

Thanks for the compliments :icon_thumby: I almost ran a piece of tube for a truss myself but decided the 1/4 plate would be the stronger set up. Any truss is better than none though, so it's up to you. The Yota springs are Trail Gear 3" rears.

[sluginxlt]

coming along great. im gonna be doin my d30 swap soon. was wondering if the stock front drive shaft will work... are they the same size u-joint as the d30 pinion yolk? and how about the length.

[Maverick]

was wondering if the stock front drive shaft will work... are they the same size u-joint as the d30 pinion yolk? and how about the length.

Don't know, havent gotten to that point yet. I'll be sure to post what I end up using though.




On a side note, I ordered 100' of tubing today :D The man in the brown truck will be dropping off a Joint Jigger along with exhaust parts and bumpstops tomorrow, and I'm building a stand for my model 3 bender this weekend :headbang:

[sluginxlt]

thanks alot man, i was gonna originally go with leafs but i got a set of radius arms and brackets for a 79 , dont mean to jock your style lol but i think coils will be the better way to go? where did you get your c wedges i know duff and bronco graveyard has them but 85 bux seems a little pricey for what they are.

[Maverick]

thanks alot man, i was gonna originally go with leafs but i got a set of radius arms and brackets for a 79 , dont mean to jock your style lol but i think coils will be the better way to go? where did you get your c wedges i know duff and bronco graveyard has them but 85 bux seems a little pricey for what they are.

I prefer coils over leaf springs. I bought my wedges from Duff, yeah I think they cost about twice as much as they're worth at $85, but whatcha gonna do :dunno:

[Maverick]

Built my bumpstops. I used studded universal polyurethane bumpstops from energy suspension and some one inch schedule 40 pipe. Capped off one end and drilled/tapped a whole for the stud. Attached them to my stock coil spring retainers. Worked out pretty well, now I have about 3/4" before any metal to metal contact with it resting on the bumpstops.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1259-1.jpg

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1266.jpg

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1267.jpg

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1268.jpg

[Maverick]

I finally got around to assembling the doubler and installing the cases in the truck. Now I need to fab up a tranny crossmember. I can also set the pinion angle on the rear now and burn the pads on.

I dont have a TIG yet (nor do I know how to use one) so I had a guy burn in the block off plates for the doubler case for me.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1166-1.jpg

In the truck.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1277.jpg

I dug through my stack of RBV driveshafts and found both a front rear that bolted right in. I was fawkin stoked! That was short lived though because at full droop they were both just a little to short and the front just barely binds. I might be able to get away with clearancing the stock yoke. The splines were still engaged on both but not enough for me to feel comfortable with. I really wanted to use the rear one because it was already a beefy custom made 1310 CV shaft that I scored out of a free BII. Oh well, might be giving Tom Woods a call.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1278.jpg

[pickuptrucker]

good looking build, just get that rear one extened a couple inches

[Maverick]

good looking build, just get that rear one extened a couple inches

Local driveshaft shop wants $180 to lengthen it. Then if I put all new joints in it, I'd have about $225 into a used shaft. I can get a Tom Woods shaft for about $270 and have their kick ass warranty. I think that would be the smarter way to go.

[pickuptrucker]

oh that makes sense. i remembered it being cheaper when i got a few worked on. i learned tig on aluminium this week, not quite as well as that yet though

[Maverick]

Had a friend stop by today and help with some stuff. Started building my sliders, which eventually will tie into the cage.

First order of business was chopping the rocker panels:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1319.jpg

Mocking up:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1323.jpg
Installation:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1327.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1328.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1331.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1329.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1330.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1334.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1336.jpg

I plan on throwing some gussets on there but just didnt get around to it today. I plated the frame with 1/4", the 2X2 is 3/16" and the 2X4 is 1/8". I'm going to plate the bottom of the 2X4 with 1/8"x4" flat bar. That way I'll have a good solid piece of steel to slide on without the weight of 1/4" wall 2X4.

[Bray D]

Good work on the sliders. I was gonna say you're gonna dent the hell outta the 1/8" stock but then I read you're gonna plate the bottom - good idea. Excellent craftsmanship, keep it up.

[91rokkrawler]

Looking awesone... did you use the stock ford wedges for the axle? (i didn't read the thread just skimmed)

[rickcdewitt]

how do you feel about being illegally high(the frame height,lol).i'm in the middle of getting this truck down to earth and finished off for a friend who's allergic to fab work.he got a ticket for it being too high up when he first bought it.the chp said his nitestick has to touch the bottom of the frame rail(about 24"s)
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff314/rickcdewitt/yota/KIF_0644.jpg

[Maverick]

how do you feel about being illegally high(the frame height,lol).i'm in the middle of getting this truck down to earth and finished off for a friend who's allergic to fab work.he got a ticket for it being too high up when he first bought it.the chp said his nitestick has to touch the bottom of the frame rail(about 24"s)


I'm not worried about it. The cops up here are pretty lienant when it comes to vehicle mods. Besides, if they ever started busting people for (overly) lifted rigs, they would be busy for years before they ever got to me.

[kemicalburns]

how do you feel about being illegally high(the frame height,lol).i'm in the middle of getting this truck down to earth and finished off for a friend who's allergic to fab work.he got a ticket for it being too high up when he first bought it.the chp said his nitestick has to touch the bottom of the frame rail(about 24"s)
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff314/rickcdewitt/yota/KIF_0644.jpg


i think the CHP was jerken him around. ive seen plenty of Superduty fords running 8+ lifts with 37-40 tires from CA how would they be able to if that was illegal?

[pickuptrucker]

if its brand new trucks with rich middle age dudes the police are going to care alot less than if it is some teen age "punk" in an old wheelin rig. especially if it is a rich yuppy town.

[rickcdewitt]

I'm not worried about it. The cops up here are pretty lienant when it comes to vehicle mods. Besides, if they ever started busting people for (overly) lifted rigs, they would be busy for years before they ever got to me.so long as you have mud flaps you're usually fine,my main concern is a tall truck with stockish track width likes to flop

[Maverick]

so long as you have mud flaps you're usually fine,my main concern is a tall truck with stockish track width likes to flop

That's what the cage is for :thefinger:

[rickcdewitt]

yep.

jeez look at all the (super)mods popping up.i just noticed:thefinger:

[JohnnyU]

That's what the cage is for :thefinger:
Sounds like you could use a set of training wheels....:thefinger:

[Maverick]

Sounds like you could use a set of training wheels....:thefinger:

Coming from the guy who has to put 31's on his truck to fit in the garage... or did the bodylift delete take care of that problem :thefinger:

[JohnnyU]

It's about 5" lower than before. Had to trim the fenders a bit, but no big deal.
http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j47/Junes84/Truck%20Build/IMG_1723.jpg

Ok, thread-jack over. :thefinger:

[Maverick]

Ordered and received my shocks last week. Mmmmmm... Bilstein goodness.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1416.jpg

Ended up plating the bottom side of the sliders with 3/16"x3.5" flatbar. I think I'll have to work pretty hard to dent them now.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1429.jpg

Torched out the old stamped steel cab crossmember and built a new one that incorporated the cab mounts. While I was there I also boxed in a small section of frame. My cage will start from this point so I wanted a little extra rigidity. I will also being adding a diagonal gusset from the bottom of the frame there to the underside of the new cab crossmember.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1390.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1407.jpg

I also ran another brace into the frame on the rear of the sliders. It stiffened the sliders up tremendously, I'm going to do the same of the front of the sliders.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1430.jpg

After three years of owning a bender, it finally got it mounted after drilling some holes in the concrete. Time to start the fun stuff :D

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1421.jpg

Just a couple teasers, much more to come :headbang:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1425.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1424.jpg

[bmxryder]

some quality work there.:icon_thumby:

i just jumped into this thread so i haven't read everything, but what are you doing for the back? mod a bed, or make a full cage... or somethin?

[Maverick]

some quality work there.:icon_thumby:

i just jumped into this thread so i haven't read everything, but what are you doing for the back? mod a bed, or make a full cage... or somethin?

I'll be rockin a modified bed, or at least besides. Everybody does the flatbed/tubebed thing. I want this to look like a Ranger.

On a side note I picked up this pile for free today. Going to gut it and send it to crusher this weekend. It's got some of the odds and ends I need to finish this thing up. I'll also be keeping the doors, hood, fenders, tranny, and t-case for spares.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1434.jpg

[mjonesjr]

Looks good Mav.

I wish I could score a decent '90 for free!

[Maverick]

Havent had much time to work on the rig in the last couple weeks, been busy as hell. I did manage to put the finishing touches on the sliders the other weekend. Probably would have done more but ran out of gas for the welder :annoyed:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1438.jpg

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1435.jpg

I used schd. 80 1" pipe for the bars. Pipe tends to be a little more rigid than tube and thus more resistant to dents. The above pic is the 1" pipe in comparison to 1.75"X.120" wall tube. I think I'll be able to pivot the entire weight of the truck off the sliders :D

[Bray D]

I used 1" schd 80 for my sliders as well. Mine deflect a little, but have definitely saved my rockers. Yours will be much more rigid than mine though, by design.

[91rokkrawler]

any updates?

[Maverick]

Not much really, been pretty busy. I just finally got around to stripping that BII and brought it out to junkyard yesterday. I'm building extended radius arms now. Decided I'd rather not have the wristed arm set up. I just want something that works (flex) without fawking with it. One less thing to fail the way I look at it. I'll be basically copying what Bray D did in the build of his arms. I ordered the materials for it already, should be here this week. I'll probably hammer them out next weekend. I've also been messing with the cage a little bit. A teaser, dont mind my buddy posing:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1454.jpg

[TS6034]

Is that Larry the cable guy?

[Maverick]

Yep. When he's not touring the U.S. doing comedy shows he works at a fab shop and rolls tube for me :thefinger:

[odie1969]

Yep. When he's not touring the U.S. doing comedy shows he works at a fab shop and rolls tube for me :thefinger:

Git-R-Done

[Maverick]

Well I keep moving backwards. On top of building new radius arms I stumbled across a manual 1354, which is what I wanted from the beginning. So now I've got the doubler assembly back out of the truck and spread across the work bench once again. I should have it back together in the next few days. It looks like I'll be able to use a stock front driveshaft from a sploder now which will save me some $$. Ballistic fab is dragging ass on getting my parts to me for the radius arms. This is the second not so great experience I've had with them, it may just be the last.

[sluginxlt]

looks like its coming along good man. im getting close to finishing my d30 swap. i eneded up goin with waggy leafs though. im very interested in the rear 3" toyota leafs, how much lift did that give you? if possible next time your workin on it could you get a measurement from the bottom of the frame down to the ubolt spring plate.

[Maverick]

Been a long time since the last update. Haven't worked on it quite a while for a variety of different reasons but now I'm back at it. Since the last update I've got the doubler cases put back together and reinstalled. I have my extended arms built, minus the rod ends being installed. Right now I'm working on the new crossmember that serve as both an attachment point for the new arms and a support for the rear-most case. Everybody loves pics so here ya go.

New arms (2"x0.250" DOM) welded up and boxed in
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1478.jpg

Mocking up new arms
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1668.jpg

Finished the new rear cab crossmember off with some bracing
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1665.jpg

The new radius arm/rear case support crossmember
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1663.jpg

Counter sunk bolts for a flush mount
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1662.jpg

Some goodies that showed up yesterday :D
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1660.jpg

[Bray D]

Nice clean work Mav. Good to see you back at it again :icon_thumby:

[Chance]

Hmmm... when your rigs done (hopefully mine too) we should have a state of jefferson wheelin meet

[86 slo-vo]

looks good...quality work

[GOODOLEBOY84]

I wondered what happen with this build!

[motorbill87]

Looks good! I like the sliders. Wish I had the luxury of working on my rig in a shop like you. Keep up the good work

[Maverick]

Thanks for the comments guys, it's good to be back at it again.

Chance, I'm definately up for any sort of wheeling adventure once my rig is done.

[Downey]

when is it going to be done i want to see this thing

[Maverick]

Poor little D30 is screaming and it hasnt even left the shop yet :icon_rofl:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1816.jpg

Sold the 35" Pro Comps and picked up some 36" TSL's. They run tall for a 36", a full 1.5" taller than those Pro Comps when aired up. There's some serious clearance under that diff now.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/Outlawz4X4/Project%20B2R/IMG_1815.jpg

[Maverick]

After much procrastination, I started bobbing the bed tonight. I hate bobbing dual walled beds, early toyotas are so much easier. I'll be honest in that the few (B2R style) beds I've seen done and mounted, I haven't liked how they turn out. Makes the truck look weird IMO. I'm doing mine a bit different though so we'll see. If nothing else I'll throw the bed away and tube it.

[84_Nor*Cal_Ranger]

nice.... finally an update. :yahoo: