My '00 build thred, w/questions

[cdawall]

Two reasons: 1) I didn't know such an axle existed outside the 8.8 and 2) my neighbour runs a machine shop and works for packs if cokes and pastries.

Yup the 1999 E350 D60 in mine has the exact connector that the 8.8" had. The machine shop however seems like one hell of a deal.

 

[cmequestionu]

Beware the clockspring!

I recently found out about this part in the steering wheel called a clock spring. It connects the steering wheel buttons (horn, cruise control, airbag) to the rest of the truck via a wound up wire. If that wire gets wound too much in one direction by, oh say, disconnecting the steering linkage because you are doing an axle swap and moving the steering wheel too much in the wrong direction then it will bind, break, and stop working. So a word of warning to anyone doing an axle swap: keep the steering wheel straight and beware the clock spring!

 

[cmequestionu]

New Grille

I finally got around to creating a new grille for the truck. I really like the styling of the years I have been getting my parts from (73-79 F-150) So I decided to take some styling cues from those years. My favorite parts are the front and the back when FORD was written in big letters not just in a tiny blue oval. I hope to get to the tailgate sooner or later.

To criticise my own work I need to find a way to distiquish the bottom of the grille from the bumper. If anyone has any ideas let me know.

 

[cmequestionu]

https://picasaweb.google.com/106052837427599874258/Saxon4x4081912?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCPrqk-z8q5jUuwE&feat=directlink
Went out to Saxton trail just outside Georgetown, CO. Came accross a wash out where the rocks came down on the trail. It was either go over or go back...there was no going back. (the last three are videos)

 

[Ford78]

Looked like it was a good time. Truck looks really good

 

[cmequestionu]

Thanks. Just in case your wondering the holes in the bumper are for some Piaa lights I picked up for cheap. I was halfway thru modifing the bumper when my grinder brushes went out. I ordered more and will be able to get to it shortly.

 

[Ford78]

How do u like your smittybilt winch? Thinking of getting one and the price is really good.

 

[cmequestionu]

You know, I havent had a chance to use it. I did get a really good deal and heard great things about it so I would recommend it based on that but whenever I go out I havent pushed it enough to need it and the guys I go out with each have their own. I bought it right after winter and its the snow treks that get me so hopefully I will have a better review then.

 

[1freaky1]

Looks like you did good up there. I have not run Saxon going down just up from that side. Rock slide area looks a bit more intense than it used to especially with nothing on the outer edge but air going down.

As for the Smittybuilt winches I have one on each end of the truck and they do pull good just slow at best with high amp draws. I definitely need a higher amp output alternator. But for the money they work good.

 

[cmequestionu]

It was fun though. Hey I went to the KBPI car show yesterday and there were no Rangers representing out there. Next year we need to go and show them up!

 

[1freaky1]

I wanted to go but I was in the middle of tearing my D44 down for new seals and the 9" for new seals and bearings. Yeah we'll have to get there next year for it.

 

[Ford78]

Any updates?