Project B2R

[Maverick]

So I'm scrapping the bobbed bed idea. I got the bed cut down and tacked together, through it on the back of the truck for a quick look. It doesn't clear the gas tank. I would have to cut out a good size section of the floor, and in doing so would lose two of the main supports in the floor. Without a good amount of work it would be a just flimsy bed for nothing more than looks. It could it be done, but its more work than I want to do just to drag it down the side of a rock.

 

[NMB2]

Firstly, awesome build. I like it alot and keep up the good work

secondly,

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.

the first thing I would recommend is to move your shackle hanger forward on the frame to get your angle in check better, its much too verticle. If you do that, this is what you will have:

WAY old pic... but the only one i have handy to illustrate what im looking for

3" TG leafs.

and this is sitting static:

the compression tire will bottom the shock out.

 

[Maverick]

The funny thing is, I had my shackle hanger moved forward, and just moved it farther back. The reason behind doing so was because TG recommends the shackle angle to be around 20-25 degrees. With my shackle hanger moved forward it was around 45 degrees, much like the way yours looks. That was with and empty fuel tank, no bed, no spare, nothing. So I figured with all that added stuff the angle was going to be way extreme. Right now it's right at what TG recommends. I'll get it all together, beat on it a bit, see what happens. If I don't like it, I still have the holes for the foward position and it'll be a quick change.

 

[NMB2]

TG doesnt know what they're talking about. They stole all of their designs anyways. The shackle needs to face like mine.

 

[Maverick]

Wow... I didn't realize it's been this long since I've worked on this thing. Been busy with life and a new puppy, but enough excuses already. I ditched the rear most crossmember and built my own that incorporated heavy duty tow points. I also scrapped the BII fuel tank because it's just too big and odd shaped. A friend of mine built me an aluminum fuel tank this weekend out 0.125 5051. I did lose about 5 gallons of capacity but it no longer sticks above the frame or nearly as low below the frame as the stock one, plus I gained much needed full compression axle clearance. I'll should have some pics up by tomorrow.

 

[Hahnsb2]

Since you're losing the bed why not just throw the tank up on the frame?

 

[Maverick]

Since you're losing the bed why not just throw the tank up on the frame?

I still want some what of a functional bed, enough room to haul a spare, tools and some camping gear. The factory tank up on the frame looks ridiculous and takes up too much room.

Here's some pics of the progress. The crossmember is 0.180 wall 2"x4" with dual shield welded 1" plate for clevis mounts.

Not sure where the tank is going to go. I'm thinking of moving it forward of the axle now. The factory sending unit is being shortened and reused. The tank holds 17.5 gallons.

 

[86 slo-vo]

nice, who made the tank?

 

[Maverick]

A buddy of mine who works at a fab shop. He has access to all the right equipment (press break, tig welder) to get the job done.

 

[Bray D]

Very nice. I would move it forward if clearance allows. I've got the ranger auxilliary tank behind the axle and I put a decent dent in it last summer. I skid plate should take care of my problems, but if you can fix it now, I would. A hole in a gas tank could really ruin a trip.

 

[Bennybooster]

Mebbe next summer wheeling trip???, My sas should be completed by late july

 

[Maverick]

If I ever get this thing finished, I'll be up for a wheeling trip anytime, anywhere. I'm not afraid to travel

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

If I ever get this thing finished, I'll be up for a wheeling trip anytime, anywhere. I'm not afraid to travel

Reeeeallly?

 

[Maverick]

Really really.

 

[compaqeo]

Nothing new on this? im fabbing my rear body mount crossmember on mine like you did yours