The 18 Year Build-up of My Beater

[BeaterToyota]

So now that my SAS is nearly complete, I just thought I'd make a thread dedicated to the slowest truck progression/build-up ever. There really isn't a whole lotta tech info here, mostly just pictures at various stages.

I bought my junk in '92 for $6000. I got it from the original owner, with 49,000 miles and it didn't have a scratch on it. It had tiny little 225/75/15 tires and shiny paint. It's come a long way over 14 years.



Here it is in '93, when my friends and I were making fun of this dumb-ass at our high school who would always lean his head out the window of his Bronco on 38"s, and yell, "Check the traction." Old school stocker:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2011-01-12/1294875694_wheeling_078.jpg

Not much progress made to my junk throughout the '90s. Here is Guardrail Hill at Tellico in '98 with 31" mudders and a Lock-Right. Probably the last wheeling picture I have of it with a bed:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2011-01-12/1294875625_wheeling_056.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

Here is a post that I originally made two years ago on 4x4wire.com (http://www.4x4wire.com/forums/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=UBB11&Number=508273&Forum=,,All_Forums,,&Words=&Searchpage=1&Limit=25&Main=508230&Search=true&where=&Name=11885&daterange=&newerval=&newertype=&olderval=&oldertype=&bodyprev=#Post508273) about building my flatbed:


Here's some info on mine. I used 1.5" square tubing with 1/8" wall. So far it has held up just fine. It's been about a year since I started mine and all I have is the tube frame. I haven't ever gotten around to getting diamond plate or something to finish it. I cut a piece of plywood to fit for those occasions when I need to throw a cooler or tent back there. I used about 60' of tubing and my (unfinished) bed weighs about 135 lbs.

I built the top hoop first. It's about 5'x5', so it's about 1' shorter than the original bed:

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2004-04-23/1082759700_04350014.jpg

Then I built the bottom of the bed, and connected it to the top hoop with 6" vertical pieces. In this picture you can see my wooden prototype leaning against the left wall of the garage:

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2004-04-23/1082759451_04350013.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2003-11-11/1068600153_04350009.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2003-11-11/1068600057_04350006.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2003-11-11/1068599928_Paragon03.jpg

One step closer to being finished:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2004-04-23/1082760757_101_0135.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

I beat the shit outta my truck for the last three years. Once you put a spool in the rear and get dual t-cases, you can get a low-riding IFS truck into places it shouldn't go. This lead to the need for a SAS.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a53/whitfimb/P8270242.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-08/1144543380_rc_rocks5.jpg

Here's some tech to bring this thread back on topic. When you break your marker lights on trees (like in the picture above) go to Tractor Supply Co. and buy a $4 replacement light: :roll:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2005-01-13/1105681355_light0002.jpg



http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2005-04-06/1112837293_whompum.jpg



IFS rules!!
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-08/1144543616_whompum_backside.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

Fourteen years after buying it, Ted helps me cut off the IFS so I can stick a solid axle, Trail-Gear 3" springs, a Marlin Crawler spring hanger, and 36"s under it:

http://www.midatlanticttora.com/uploads/forums/sas0002-1.jpg

http://www.midatlanticttora.com/uploads/forums/sas0003-1.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-08/1144541270_sas0004_1.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-08/1144541369_sas0005_1.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-08/1144541471_sas0007_1.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-08/1144541578_sas0008_1.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

I'll have to let the front springs settle into place, and then lift the rear to match:

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-08/1144541682_sas0009_1.jpg

[hecull]

Not the average build-up, but nice to see.
I had no idea you'd had the truck so long.
Wish I was in the area to help out.
So the axle's mounted, (congrats, BTW) what's left to do other than steering and a front driveshaft?
Can't wait to see the *new* beater!
Kyle

[BeaterToyota]

So the axle's mounted, (congrats, BTW) what's left to do other than steering and a front driveshaft?

I need to:
*Rebuild the driver's side knuckle.
*Install the hi-steer.
*Let the springs settle and then mount the front shocks and shock hoops.
*Swap a couple of drive flanges around 'cause my square front driveshaft doesn't bolt up to my current t-case output flange.
*Lift the rear and remount the rear shocks.

[BeaterToyota]

Some more not-so-serious tech for this thread: 1" tubing used as a seat lift 'cause the little Japanese dudes who designed these trucks made the seats too low.

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2004-09-15/1095282182_seat_lift0001.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2004-09-15/1095282222_seat_lift0002.jpg

[Ted]

Looking good.

[KnuckleHead]

Here it is in '93, when my friends and I were making fun of this dumb-ass at our high school...


You were still in high school in '93? Fawking kids. :roll: :lol:

[BeaterToyota]

Nope, I'm old. I graduated in '92.

[plusdome]

Here it is in '93, when my friends and I were making fun of this dumb-ass at our high school...


You were still in high school in '93? Fawking kids. :roll: :lol:

'98 here
I wish I had pictures of my '87 yota when I was in high school. I beat the shit out of it and it never gave me problem I sold it when I bought my Taco...I should have kept it. I need a beater

Nice Build :smt023

[TiTRD]

Looks good Jason! Diggin the mutton chops back in '93 :lol:

[BeaterToyota]

Diggin the mutton chops back in '93 :lol:

You ain't seen nothing. I should do a write-up of all the whacked out beards and sideburns I've done over the years. I was just thinking today that if I didn't have to keep a job, I'd grow some big ass chops again.

What's left for your rig Rich? You gonna bob the bed or anything?

[TiTRD]

Diggin the mutton chops back in '93 :lol:

You ain't seen nothing. I should do a write-up of all the whacked out beards and sideburns I've done over the years. I was just thinking today that if I didn't have to keep a job, I'd grow some big ass chops again.

What's left for your rig Rich? You gonna bob the bed or anything?

I've got to get the IFS box mounted, shock hoops mounted, get the whole rear suspension done and then it will be wheelable. I may order the propane kit this week. I'm going to leave the bed as is for now and do a flat bed next year.

[Donkey]

Beater,You really need to do that write up on beards and sideburns.

[TiTRD]

Beater,You really need to do that write up on beards and sideburns.

haha I agree, that would be funny shit.

[BeaterToyota]

On Saturday I should be done (for now) with my junk and have some new truck pics.

Got a bit of work done today:
*some more grinding on the frame
*passenger side knuckle rebuilt
*front brakes installed
*inner fenders trimmed for the shock hoops
*braces welded to the shock hoops
*motor mounts boxed in where the IFS brackets were cut off.

I should get the shock mounts welded on Saturday morning, then I'll bolt in the drag link and tie rod, and the front end is basically done.

I still haven't determined what I'll do for rear springs.

[BeaterToyota]

A few pics:



http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-24/1145925029_sas_flex0001.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-24/1145925360_sas_flex0004.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-24/1145925590_sas_flex0005.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-24/1145925781_sas_flex0007.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-24/1145926031_sas_flex0008.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-24/1145926360_sas_flex0009.jpg

[Ted]

Poser!!!

Looks good. Does it sit level?

[BeaterToyota]

Nope, it sits like a motor boat, with the ass end way lower than the front. I want to let the front springs break in before I lift the rear.

Is your junk done yet, Ted?

[Ted]

not yet.......you going to big dogs this weekend?

[Ted]

The weekend after big dogs is going to be the final push.

[BeaterToyota]

I might go, I haven't decided yet. Are you going?

[Ted]

If I can find someone to ride with.

[BeaterToyota]

The weekend after big dogs is going to be the final push.

Fawk Big Dogs. Finish your junk this weekend instead, and go to Crozet with me the following weekend, 5/6 - 5/7

[Eric_N]

Looks good. I cant wait to start on my '92 pickup.

[hecull]

Congrats Jason! Looks great.
KO

[ccannon222]

Beater,

Lookin' good.

ccannon

[cbabywolf02]

Yea, mad flex! it's awesome looking looks like a shit load of fun.

[BeaterToyota]

Well, I think I have a 3500 lb lawn ornament for a while. I'm pretty sure the head gasket is blown.

I've been losing coolant (without any visible leaks) and I've been overheating lately. I checked cylinder compression several weeks ago, and everything was good, but something just isn't right.

I started it up yesterday and let it run for a little while before I loaded it up with trash to take to the dump. The exaust looked a little steamy, like the coolant was getting shot out the tailpipe.

Before I tear into it, I'm gonna take it to a shop to a radiator test or whatever it is so see if they can determine for sure that's what the problem is.

[Donkey]

I have 3 motors at my pad. If you want one to rebuild you can have one.

[KnuckleHead]

Damn dude, that sucks.

[BeaterToyota]

I got the alternator replaced tonight 'cause after 19 years the original was beat.

And I threw a new thermostat in just to be sure that wasn't my overheating problem.

The truck seemed to run fine, and I drove about 25 minutes and it didn't even get above 1/4 on the temp guage. But when I got home and shut if off I heard some gurgling. The radiator overflow was completely full. I must have a clog somewhere in a hose or the radiator. I'm gonna flush it and see what happens. Hopefully that's the problem, and not a blown head gasket. We'll see.

[Ted]

Jason..I have an old radiator from an 85 that you can use for testing.

[BeaterToyota]

Word. I'll give it a shot. Mine is from 1-800-RADIATOR or something. It's not too old, but it was pretty freakin' cheap.

[Ted]

I'll save it for you.

[BeaterToyota]

Your truck on the road yet? You're slower than me.

[Ted]

Your truck on the road yet? You're slower than me.

I am slow. I need to put the interior back together, and fix the broken wire to the fuel pump, and it's ready to go.

[BeaterToyota]

I just did some internet searching, and my truck's symptoms are very consistent with an exhaust side head gasket leak. Great.

[Ted]

I just did some internet searching, and my truck's symptoms are very consistent with an exhaust side head gasket leak. Great.

Not good.

[KnuckleHead]

Just man up and replace the head gasket already.

[BeaterToyota]

Yeah, yeah. I know.

But then I won't have an excuse to not go wheeling.

[KnuckleHead]

Just SAS the DD already. :twisted:

[BeaterToyota]

I should sell the DD and make Cronus's F-toy my DD. :lol:

[mtnyota]

that would be a little cold for winter, but fawken cool for a dd.

[KnuckleHead]

I should sell the DD and make Cronus's F-toy my DD. :lol:

Sell that POS **** before you sell the truck. :wink:

[Mike]

Sorry, F-toy is pretty much sold. Guy is coming for it on the 16th.

Smart Mike says save the cash. Smarter Mike says buy a bender and new tires/rims.

[94krawler]

Jason fix that scraper and do some winter wheeling this year. Hell Cronus wheeled with me last year in the snow and he better again this year :P

[BeaterToyota]

Sell that POS *&^% before you sell the truck. :wink:
This coming from a guy who drives a minivan. :roll: :flipoff2:

[BeaterToyota]

Jason fix that scraper and do some winter wheeling this year. Hell Cronus wheeled with me last year in the snow and he better again this year :P

Yeah, it'll get fixed soon. Maybe.

[fourwd1]

... Hell Cronus wheeled...


UFB

[Mike]

Jason fix that scraper and do some winter wheeling this year. Hell Cronus wheeled with me last year in the snow and he better again this year :P

:flipoff2:

I don't know about snow wheeling. I'm picking up some more steel tomorrow and need to do my flatbed.

[BeaterToyota]

I just ordered a new radiator for my junk. After months of not really trying to figure out what's wrong with my junk, I think that I've finally ruled out the head gasket and determined that my radiator is shot. It should be here on Wednesday, so I *might* try to make it to Paragon on Feb. 3.

[BeaterToyota]

Alright, after 5 months of sitting on my ass, and symptom after symptom pointing to a blown head gasket, I swapped in a new 3 core radiator tonight and everything seems good. Freakin' lazy ass I am.

[BeaterToyota]

Since Ted painted his junk almost the same color as mine..

Mine:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2006-04-24/1145926031_sas_flex0008.jpg
His:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2007-03-09/1173495965_img_0793.jpg



I decided to steal his license plate idea and get a new one for my junk:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2007-03-17/1174141033_tail_lights_002.jpg

[Ted]

Nice!!!!!!

[BeaterToyota]

I borrowed a tool from a friend to test for exhaust gases in the radiator. Suspicions were confirmed; my head gasket is blown. One of these days I'll get it fixed. Knowing the way I get things done I'll be bolting it all back together the night before EC4RJ.

[94krawler]

I borrowed a tool from a friend to test for exhaust gases in the radiator. Suspicions were confirmed; my head gasket is blown. One of these days I'll get it fixed. Knowing the way I get things done I'll be bolting it all back together the night before EC4RJ.


Sucks to hear Jason. Bite the bullet and get it done. Its not hard and it would suck to do it last minute and find a bad head...

Dont drag you junk out like I do :lol:

[larc68]

Depending on if you head is bad..I have a junker 4runner that threw a rod if you need the head. I think it has about 250k but it ran good till the kid suck up a gallon of water

[Ted]

I borrowed a tool from a friend to test for exhaust gases in the radiator. Suspicions were confirmed; my head gasket is blown. One of these days I'll get it fixed. Knowing the way I get things done I'll be bolting it all back together the night before EC4RJ.


Time to pull the head.

[BeaterToyota]

I finally got off my lazy ass and pulled the head today. Took about 5 hours or so. I labeled all the hoses and wires as I went, and that took up a lot of time. I still have to remove the manifolds from the head. Once they're off (maybe by Wednesday night), I'll drop it at a machine shop and hope for the best.

I still have one head bolt that I couldn't remove. The center one on the exhaust side came all the way out of the block, but it won't come out of the head. As a result, I can't remove the rocker assembly yet. That made the whole thing that much heavier when pulling it out.

I'm glad I have tall shocks and cut out fenders. I had to crawl up into the engine compartment and stand on one of the shock mounts to lift the head out.

Here's what I started with:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2007-05-28/1180399234_head_gasket_005.jpg

And here is where I ended:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2007-05-28/1180399486_head_gasket_014.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2007-05-28/1180399551_head_gasket_015.jpg

[Ted]

I wish you had said something, I would have dropped by.

[BeaterToyota]

I said something last night at Ace's. Oh yeah, you weren't there. :flipoff2:

[Ted]

I had a great time writing a paper :(

[Boheefus]

huh, head job/?? is it gonna be done by month's end??

[Eric_N]

That head bolt is probably just being held in by a bunch of crud. It took a 4 foot breaker bar with a pipe on the end to get the same bolt out of my block, and it was a pain to get out of the head too. My engine had roughly 209,xxx when I pulled it apart.

[BeaterToyota]

huh, head job/?? is it gonna be done by month's end??

Yep. I'll drop the head at a machine shop this week and then get it reinstalled as soon as I get it back. I also just bought a complete 3rd member with 5.29 gears for the front, so that'll match the spooled one I just installed in the rear. Still no front locker though 'cause I don't have the $$ for Longs yet.

[BeaterToyota]

That head bolt is probably just being held in by a bunch of crud.

Yeah, that's what Eric (rocktoy or 94toy or whatever the hell his name is on this board) said. I haven't gone back to look at it today. The wife is pretty sick so I'm takin' care of her and watchin' the dog. Hopefully I'll get it figured out tomorrow and can drop the head off on Thursday.

[Eric_N]

Yea, it shouldnt be to hard to get out. I think we used an impact gun to spin the bolt and pryed it up with a pry bar, but I think spraying some brake clean down into the hole that the bolt is stuck in should help out a little bit.

[locknload]

Where did you end up gettin' the third from?

[BeaterToyota]

A dude on pirate is selling two 5.29 diffs: one open, and one welded. I bought the open one. I figured gears and bearing are gonna run $250, minimum. He was selling complete third members with 5.29s for $300. Plus, I think I found a buyer for my stock, spooled, third member, so I am making up most of what I'm spending.

Jenn has been really sick this week, so I haven't made any progress on the head. I did find a shop near my office though, so I'll try to drop the head there tomorrow and pick it up on Monday.

[BeaterToyota]

I finally got the last head bolt out. I pried up on it with a wrench and hit it with the inpact gun. Still, it took some work to get it out.

I got the manifolds off and got the head cleaned up a little. I broke one of the intake manifold bolts trying to get it out, so I'll have to figure that out and find a replacement.

Talked to the machine shop today. I'll drop off the head after work tomorrow and pick it up on Monday or Tuesday. I guess that since I'll be at a standstill until then, maybe I'll get my sliders welded on this weekend.

[BeaterToyota]

Finally got my POS running again. Big thanks to mtnyota for helping me drop the head in place earlier this morning.

It seems to run okay. Sounds a little loud and rattles a bit, despite adjusting the valves. But it has always rattled. I took it for about a 6 mile trip. I'll try to mess with it a bit tomorrow and see if the idle/timing/distributor adjustments are all good.



This was the first time I had driven it since I sold my stock rear diff, and replaced it with a 5.29 diff. WOW! I can use all 5 gears, and I don't need to have the pedal to the metal. Too bad I'm gonna have to swap my 4.10s back for the EC4RJ. :roll:

[BeaterToyota]

After wheeling my junk with 2"x4"X3/16" angle iron rocker protection for the last 3 or 4 years, I figured it was time to get some sliders. Got 'em from Trail Gear about a year ago, and finally welded them on a couple weeks ago:

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2007-06-04/1180991898_sliders_001.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2007-06-04/1180992120_sliders_002.jpg

[Ted]

Maybe someone could you loan you a diff with 5.29's for the weekend.

[BeaterToyota]

05TuRDTACO offered to loan me his entire front axle: 5.29, Aussie, 30 splines. That would actually be way easier than swapping out just a diff.

Donkey said that Jamison has one I could probably use. But again, it's kinda not worth the hassle 'cause it's in the front axle and it's a bit more work.

Donnie hooked me up with a stock open diff. I'm just gonna weld it up tomorrow and stick it in the rear.

[Ted]

I got some spare stock birfs if you want to borrow that 5.29 from someone.

[BeaterToyota]

BTW Ted, nice post count pussy. :flipoff2:

[fourwd1]

After wheeling my junk with 2"x4"X3/16" angle iron rocker protection for the last 3 or 4 years, I figured it was time to get some sliders. Got 'em from Trail Gear about a year ago, and finally welded them on a couple weeks ago:


Jason, forever to SAS your rig, fix the HG, put on the sliders, maybe you should be known as the slowest MF on earth :smt003 :flipoff2:



But at least you wheel it no matter what :port:

[Ted]

Your gasket is fixed, you need a new tag under your name.

[BeaterToyota]

"World's Slowest Kitchen Remodel" should work. But Broderick's suggestion is good too.




EDIT: You already got it done. Nice.

[Ted]

BTW Ted, nice post count pussy. :flipoff2:

Time for me to post whore again.

[Ted]

"World's Slowest Kitchen Remodel" should work. But Broderick's suggestion is good too.

Check it out.

[94krawler]

Your gasket is fixed, you need a new tag under your name.


So I'm taking it it runs like a brand new truck now right :lol: As long as that fawker dont overheat 8)

[locknload]

Post

[locknload]

whore

[locknload]

, what does

[locknload]

that mean?

[Eric_N]

How did the j-b weld and makeshift stud work for you?

[BeaterToyota]

How did the j-b weld and makeshift stud work for you?

It works great. I actually went and got a 17/64 drill bit and drilled the hole one more time. Then I tapped it for an 8mm bolt. The bolt was a bit too loose since the outer 3/8" of the hole was wallowed out, and the inner 1/4" or so was okay. So I just dabbed some JB Weld onto the stud and threaded it in. Cranked the nut onto it to 14 ft lbs with no problems. Should hold up just fine.

[Eric_N]

Thats good. Sure beat taking it to the machine shop again.

[BeaterToyota]

Well, I've had my junk for over 15 years now, and here is what I did today...

I had a 40" piece of square tube sitting around. Cut in half, the two peices were exactly long enough to make a "bumper" when welded to my Trail Mart winch plate. I still need to pull the whole thing off of the truck, so I can weld the back side of the tubes where they meet the winch plate, and so I can paint the whole thing...

http://www.midatlantictoyotacrawlers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=18&d=1199067629

http://www.midatlantictoyotacrawlers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=19&d=1199067650

[Rover]

I like it, are you going to do any any supports naer the turn signals?

[BeaterToyota]

Nope. I do have some ideas for more bracing though, just didn't feel like doing it tonight...

[BeaterToyota]

Not any major tech here, but I finally got some sort of tire mount done so I don't have to use ratchet straps anymore...

I had a Yakima roof rack tire mount sitting around. It's basically a plate with a u bolt welded to it, and a j-bolt that hooks into it with a spinner to keep the tire in place. I welded the plate to my bed, and now the tire is held down securely.

(I even made sure that there's enough space towards the "tailgate" so that I can fit a 38" tire when my 36"s are worn out.)

http://www.midatlantictoyotacrawlers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20&stc=1&d=1199068814
http://www.midatlantictoyotacrawlers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21&stc=1&d=1199068814
http://www.midatlantictoyotacrawlers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=22&stc=1&d=1199068814
http://www.midatlantictoyotacrawlers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=23&stc=1&d=1199068814

[BeaterToyota]

Nothing new to report, except that I updated this thread title 'cause I've had my trash about 16.5 years now. :cool:

I broke both rear springs wheeling a month ago yesterday, and my truck hasn't moved from its spot in the driveway since then. :mad:

[BeaterToyota]

I started this thread three years ago now, and then freakin' Montypics (where I had all my pics hosted) upgraded their server and lost all my freakin' pics. I have them all on CD or hard drive, but don't have them hosted anywhere anymore. Oh well...

[locknload]

Ouch, go to PhotoBucket, easy to use and organize.

[BeaterToyota]

So, after 2 1/2 months of having a broken truck, I started ripping the rear suspension out tonight so I can get the new springs installed this weekend...

I marked the center of the shackle mount on the frame and measured back 2" so I can use that as a guide for mounting the new shackle hanger. The silver lines on back of the frame...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-04-23/1240542804_truck_001.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-04-23/1240542889_truck_002.jpg

Broken springs:

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-04-23/1240542938_truck_003.jpg

[1stgenrnrdude]

yeah that looked like a bit of a problem haha hope everything goes smoothly this weekend...post pics:D

[BeaterToyota]

I picked up 5 "new-to-me" 37" MT/Rs today. One is brand new, and the other 4 have some rock rash, but plenty of tread. I think I'm gonna buy new rims, and sell my old tires with the rims they're on. For some reason, I got to thinking about getting white rims. A throwback to the '80s I guess.

Here is a mock up done in MS Paint, and another blue flatbed truck I found online. I think I might do it...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-17/1242617247_white_wheels_1.jpg

http://www.brian894x4.com/images/scott_hilux_02.jpg

[Eric_N]

So im assuming you didnt get the leafs in yet then? Hurry up man.

[BeaterToyota]

Nope. Went to church with Jenn (didn't wear the Slayer shoes though) and then I drove up near Harrisburg, PA to get the tires. Took all day. The dude hadn't dismounted them yet, but his neighbor has a tire changing machine in his shop. Still, it took a while to get all five dismounted. I totally want a tire machine now.


How about chrome wagon wheels, like I rocked in the early '90s?
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-17/1242617978_beater_001.jpg

[locknload]

I think the white would look cool with black rim stiffeners.
http://copperheadfab.com/index.php?action=catview&cat=Rim%20Stiffeners

ALSO! Since you're getting new rims, re-drill your valve stem holes further inboard and weld up the old ones. Unless that is, you buy rim stiffeners.

[BeaterToyota]

I think the white would look cool with black rim stiffeners.

Nothing black and stiff is going near my rim. :perv:

[94krawler]

OMG

http://www.midatlantictoyotacrawlers.com/image.php?u=28&dateline=1242699215


Powell Peralta??? Thats some OG shit for sure....

[BeaterToyota]

So, after 2 1/2 months of having a broken truck, I started ripping the rear suspension out tonight so I can get the new springs installed this weekend...

I marked the center of the shackle mount on the frame and measured back 2" so I can use that as a guide for mounting the new shackle hanger. The silver lines on back of the frame...


I finally got it all put back together this weekend. I don't know if I have the ideal shackle angle or not, but everything seems to sit right, the truck is level, etc., etc.

Also got my 37" MT/Rs mounted on my old rims. They ride sooooo much better on the road, and I can actually drive on the road again...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-25/1243289158_truck_004.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-25/1243289243_truck_005.jpg

[94krawler]

Looks good Jason.

The rear shackle angle isnt to bad once the springs break in it might be ideal. Your rig is light for those springs, alot of guys running them in lighter rigs and F-toys pull 2 leafs.

[Eric_N]

Those are my old leafs, I would say there broken in. I would move the front srping hanger back a tad.

[BeaterToyota]

Those are my old leafs, I would say there broken in. I would move the front srping hanger back a tad.
I didn't want to stretch the wheelbase anymore. My rear driveshaft is already too short.

I think I'm gonna mess with pulling leaves, front and rear, this weekend. The whole rig is too tall. Only problem is that I'll have no up travel in the front if I lower it too much. Only have about 3" up travel in the front as it is.

I'm also thinking of going to my 5" shackles in the rear (those are 6" in the pics). Then, maybe take my 6" ones and redrill them to about 4" and use them up front. Not sure if there's enough metal to redrill them and use them that way, but I'm gonna check.

[94krawler]

I'd do the shackels first...

[BeaterToyota]

I decided I can't really lower the front unless I switch to 12" shocks. I use every inch of up travel with 14", and I'll be riding on bump stops if I lower it.

But I did lower the rear today. I switched from 6" to 5" shackles, which is how I had mocked it up in the first place.

I also "fixed" my broken marker light:

$4 Tractor Supply light:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-31/1243808762_corner_light_001.jpg

Light socket removed ('cause the stock bulb still works):
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-31/1243808820_corner_light_002.jpg

Drilled out the center:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-31/1243808863_corner_light_004.jpg

Broke away the rest of the stock lens, as much as I could:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-31/1243808900_corner_light_003.jpg

Mounted new light over existing bulb:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-31/1243808947_corner_light_006.jpg

Good as new:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-31/1243808992_corner_light_008.jpg

A little black paint to cover up the shiny-ness of the stock reflector surface:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-05-31/1243809032_corner_light_009.jpg

[locknload]

How much did the shackle drop it, 1/2"? Is it noticeable? I'm gonna re-drill my shackles.

[BeaterToyota]

It's barely noticeable. Yeah, probably 1/2". But I know in my mind it's lower, so that's all that really matters.

Good luck finding an 18mm drill bit (or 23/32") to redrill your shackles. I was planning on using 3/4" bolts, but decided not to worry about the front end for now...

[locknload]

I'll find one somewhere then we can do yours too. It'll be a breeze on my Mill.

[BeaterToyota]

I happened to notice once my new springs were installed that my rear drive shaft looked a bit short. It has a ton of compression available, but it only has about 2" of extension before it will pull apart. I decided I needed a spare in case I break this one. I've gone through a few in the last couple years, so I don't doubt that this one will get beat at some point.

So, on to building the spare...

Red broke his at last year's Jambo, so I gave him my spare and brought home his broken one:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243995577_drive_shaft_001.jpg

Then I cut out the really bent/twisted/broken section:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243995681_drive_shaft_002.jpg

I did some measuring (cruising around Lowes with my digital caliper) and found that the ID of my shaft was just a freakin' hair bigger than the OD of 2" rigid conduit, so I picked up 10' of conduit for like $34:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243995808_drive_shaft_003.jpg

I decided how long I needed my shaft to be and I cut the conduit to length, and slipped it in:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243995865_drive_shaft_004.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243995945_drive_shaft_005.jpg

The broken shaft is about .050" wall, and the conduit is about .150" (kinda hard to tell the real difference 'cause I didn't file the conduit clean inside after cutting it with the chop saw). Where the new shaft is sleeved, it's nearly .25" thick:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243996037_drive_shaft_006.jpg

I drilled some holes so that I could plug weld the sleeves together:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243996530_drive_shaft_008.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243996191_drive_shaft_009.jpg

Since the conduit is galvanized, I ground it all off in the weld area:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243996257_drive_shaft_011.jpg

Then I clamped it up in a homemade jig, using my bed rail and some 3/16" angle iron, so I could align the yokes as closely as possible:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243996328_drive_shaft_014.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243996412_drive_shaft_015.jpg

Once clamped up and as straight as possible, I tacked it in place, checked it again, and fully (booger) welded it. Sure it's not balanced, but it'll get me off the trail and/or get me home. I didn't get a fully welded pic, but it pretty much looks like this...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243996467_drive_shaft_012.jpg

[Red]

Red broke his at last year's Jambo, so I gave him my spare and brought home his broken one:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-06-02/1243995577_drive_shaft_001.jpg


I'm saving that to my collection of carnage shots. :Hillbilly:

[locknload]

Nice job dude :Pimp1:.

[Eric_N]

Nice. I usually just eyeball them to see if there straight. :Hillbilly:

[PrezidentRedz]

Damm not bad looking.

[BeaterToyota]

Well, in about a week I'll have owned my pile of trash for 17 years. I figured it's time for another update.
(One of these days I'll have to go back through this thread and replace the pics that got deleted when my host "upgraded" their server and lost my pics.)

For starters, I cut some 6" shackles down to 4". I had been running 5" shackles up front, and going to 4" has really helped eliminate the death wobble I had, and it lowered the front end about 1/2".

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-10-07/1254968284_truck.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-10-08/1255053058_truck_014.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

A while back I had welded a Yakima roof rack tire carrier to the bed to hold my spare in place. Because it was just welded to the bed floor, which is maybe 16 gauge plate, it still vibrated and shook around...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-10-10/1255230643_bumper_006.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-10-10/1255230783_bumper_008.jpg


http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-10-10/1255230817_bumper_010.jpg


I had wanted to pull the bed off and add some support underneath. I just never felt messing with it. Finally I got motivated. I had some scrap steel in the garage, so I cut a piece of angle iron to fit across left-to-right, and then I used a scrap of square tube to tie that in front-to-back. Should really keep the tire mounted securely and stop the wobbling around...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-10-10/1255230283_flatbed_001.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-10-10/1255230597_flatbed_004.jpg

[1stgenrnrdude]

nice work! lookin good!

[BeaterToyota]

When Dopple parted out his '85 truck he hooked me up with his rear shock hoop. I've been running shocks that are way too short, so with this shock hoop I've finally been able to get my 14" travel ones mounted...

I cut 3.5" holes through the bed, and welded the hoop directly to the bed...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-07/1268009679_truck_015.jpg


I'm not a big fan of having the tire up so high (it blocks my view out the back) but what are ya gonna do? I used a length of chain to extend my Yakima roof rack spare tire tie down.
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-07/1268009844_truck_016.jpg


My old shocks were mounted with the bolt parallel to the axle. With the shock hoop set how it is I needed to cut off the old lower mounts and weld the new ones on rotated 90*...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-07/1268009962_truck_017.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-07/1268010052_truck_018.jpg


Again, I really don't like the spare up like this, but it's the only way to fit it...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-07/1268010096_truck_019.jpg

[kajo]

Could you put a couple bars between the front of the bed mount where the hi-lift is to the shock mounts and than a bar between them to mount the tire flat on up towards the cab? If the tire sat flat and was up close to the cab it would not block you view as much. You would also still have space underneath the spare tire for storage.

[BeaterToyota]

Yeah, I was kinda thinking something like that John. I threw the tire around in a couple different spots trying to find the best spot for it right now. One problem with moving forward is that I usually have a cooler on the trail with me, and if I move that to the back it will probably block just as much view...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2009-08-15/1250376427_img_0622.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

On second thought, maybe having the cooler at the back would work okay.

[toyotanuts]

looking good. glad to see you still have it. Hope to see you on the trail this summer.

[BeaterToyota]

looking good. glad to see you still have it. Hope to see you on the trail this summer.
You still have your Trekker Jeremy? I'm heading to Crozet this coming Saturday, 3/13...

[locknload]

I'd keep the tire as far back as possible for better weight distro. Just cut out just enough of the rear of your bed's wall and extend it. The tire should lie flat between the hoop and the new back of your bed. It should be an easy mod.

[BeaterToyota]

I'd keep the tire as far back as possible for better weight distro. Just cut out just enough of the rear of your bed's wall and extend it. The tire should lie flat between the hoop and the new back of your bed. It should be an easy mod.
I looked at it. If I cut out the "tailgate" bar and lay the tire down flat, it would extend 11" past the back of the bed. I don't want it hanging back that far. I'm still thinking of other options. Perhaps the best would be that Jenn finds a job and I get a tow rig and trailer and can leave the spare on the trailer...

[BeaterToyota]

I pulled out the driver side motor mount yesterday to replace it with one from Dave'z Offroad. As I suspected, the stock mount was separating pretty badly, hence the crazy amount of movement in my shifters. I propped it open with a nut so I could get a picture...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-11/1268362405_motor_mount_003.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-11/1268363674_motor_mount_004.jpg


Here's the new one...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-09/1268176415_img_2591.jpg

Getting it installed. Bolts aren't tightened down yet...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-11/1268363978_motor_mount_005.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-11/1268364077_motor_mount_006.jpg


The front frame-to-mount bolt hole doesn't line up. It's like 1/16" off and I can't get the bolt through. It's too much hassle to pull the whole thing out and drill it and put it back. I'm gonna try to run a drill through it in place, or possibly hit it with a file. It's so freakin' close, but the bolt won't go through. For that reason alone, I would recommend Trail-Gear mounts to anybody looking to replace their stock ones. The T-G plates are slotted, so getting them aligned shouldn't be an issue...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-03-11/1268364182_motor_mount_007.jpg

[locknload]

Looks good. TG says you have to drill out the block side of their mount from 12mm to 1/2". Did you have to with Davez? It seems like it would be a bitch getting a drill all the way in the to open it up, less work to mod Davez?

[94krawler]

I have the Tg one's and the bracket is cake to remove and drill on "most" trucks. I'd bet with a angle drill and a short step bit it could be done in the truck.

[BeaterToyota]

I pulled the bracket all the way out and drilled it on the bench. Not too hard, and at 1/2" you're just barely opening up the hole, so it drills really easy. the bitch was that one of the four bolts going into the block did not want to fawking go back. I literally spent 45 or 50 minutes fumbling with that one bolt and every socket/wrench/extension combo I had trying to get it in. Finally got it. It wanted to get itself all cross-threaded and was a pain in the ass. But, yeah, pulling the bracket and drilling it is easy.

[BeaterToyota]

I have the Tg one's and the bracket is cake to remove and drill on "most" trucks. I'd bet with a angle drill and a short step bit it could be done in the truck.
That's what I'm gonna try on the one bolt hole that doesn't line up. I don't have an angle drill, but I saw one at Jenn's mom's basement the other night. I'll give it a shot.

[BeaterToyota]

A couple of years ago I picked up some doors from Redneck Eric. His (former) father in law had an old 2wd truck rotting in the woods, so I harvested the doors and a power steering idler pulley/bearing. Finally, after having them sit in my crawlspace for the last couple years I started building a set of 1/2 doors tonight...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-02/1275538318_doors_005.jpg

I marked it all out with painters tape, and I made the horizontal cut 4" above where I wanted the sill to be, and then I folded it over....
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-02/1275538547_doors_004.jpg

Junk pile from gutting one of the doors...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-02/1275538692_doors_007.jpg

[99SR5]

nice! cant wait to see how they turn out. i've really been thinking up a few ideas for my doors....

[BeaterToyota]

I won't be able to finish them up until next week sometime, but here is how they look...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-03/1275612214_doors_010.jpg

[94krawler]

I love my half doors, awesome mod. Dont foget to add a cupholder middle finger

[BeaterToyota]

Yeah, they're nice to have. Way better than door-less, too. I used to have some hand-me-downs that I got from Ted, and I think he got them from Kajo. I'll probably skip the cup holders because, 1) I'm too lazy to add them, and 2) I already have two between the seats behind the rear shifter.

Here are the old ones, that I think Donnie ended up with, and then I guess he got rid of them when he got rid of the "85 JUNK" truck...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-03/1275619525_img_0528.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

BTW, I miss Paragon. ^^^^^^^^ :(

[94krawler]

BTW, I miss Paragon. ^^^^^^^^ :(

Me to:(

[larc68]

Here are the old ones, that I think Donnie ended up with, and then I guess he got rid of them when he got rid of the "85 JUNK" truck...


I think you still have them since I didnt come and got them from you. I know I didnt have any with the truck.

[jtaco1]

I won't be able to finish them up until next week sometime, but here is how they look...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-03/1275612214_doors_010.jpg

Those look kinda familiar :)
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y4/jtgraup/DSCN2074.jpg

Also, definately put cup holders in, it only takes 10 minutes to do with a 3" holesaw and a piece of 3" exhaust. Cut the hole then weld the slug from the cut to teh bottom of the exhaust and weld into the door.

[BeaterToyota]

Those look kinda familiar :)
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y4/jtgraup/DSCN2074.jpg



That's the best caged, rolled, hacked up, sitting on 37"s, IFS truck I've seen in a while. Looks good. :)

[jtaco1]

Thanks, I hope I get it all done for EC4RJ, look forward to seeing your truck there if you can make it to get some ideas.

[99SR5]

I LOVE THAT 4RUNNER! holy crap i need to get to work on my truck, i need a cage and half doors.... :( so much work, so little time and money.

[larc68]

I LOVE THAT 4RUNNER! holy crap i need to get to work on my truck, i need a cage and half doors.... :( so much work, so little time and money.

And only one leg!!:thump:

[99SR5]

And only one leg!!:thump:
yeah thanks for that middle fingernut kick i almost forgot.... but that too

[BeaterToyota]

I started building a set of 1/2 doors tonight...

I almost got them finished today...
http://www.youdrivewhat.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/car72Unknown.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

It's about time I build some sort of roll bar/cage for my trash. I'm not going with a full exo 'cause I just don't like them and I still drive my trash on the road and I think it would just be silly. I'm not going internal 'cause there just isn't enough room. I don't really care if I roll it and trash the cab; I just don't want to die or bust my melon.

So here's what I think I'm gonna build... I'll tie the main hoop into my sliders and the frame. I'll also cut out the vertical pieces at the front corners of my bed and have the vertical pieces of the roll bar replace them and tie the bed and cage together. Thoughts?

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-08/1276027921_cage_design_2.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-08/1276028162_cage_design.jpg

[locknload]

The back looks good but to save your head I'd still do at least a partial. make your rear hoop a bit taller then run a tube forward along the cab (tight), down your A pillar and into your fender. Run it down under your fender then tie it into the frame/slider. Since you're not worried about paint or the sheetmetal, keep it tight.


My work is done here :Pimp1:.

[BeaterToyota]

Word. Probably the best one out there...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-08/1276030799_vhlvhli.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-08/1276030852_lgufil.jpg

[94krawler]

The back looks good but to save your head I'd still do at least a partial. make your rear hoop a bit taller then run a tube forward along the cab (tight), down your A pillar and into your fender. Run it down under your fender then tie it into the frame/slider. Since you're not worried about paint or the sheetmetal, keep it tight.


My work is done here :Pimp1:.

This although cool if driven on the road will drive you nuts. Everything moves and shifts. I have rub marks and dents all over from my exo hitting the cab. Imagine the sound of a peice of tube rubbing against the cab everytime you hit a bump in the road. Once you realize you can put the tube into a tree and not tear the cab to shreds the cage will become a slider.


Unless your doing good material those 2 legs and halo wont do shit in a serious roll anyways. Dont get me wrong it will add strenght to the cage but the front legs will crush on a good impact, probly just continue to bend at the spots they were bent at origially.

[locknload]

What if he ran a straight tube from the lower bend you're talking about across the truck (either over or under the bed) to the other bend?

[94krawler]

What if he ran a straight tube from the lower bend you're talking about across the truck (either over or under the bed) to the other bend?

I dont know WTF your talking about. I'm just saying a A pillar with several bends wont support very much if no other tube ties into it. Theres nothing tieing them together side to side or keeping them from bending front or back on impact.

[locknload]

Well of course there would be a windshield and cowl tube, you'd have to have those. I thought you were talking about the lower bends on just the rear hoop with no forward tube work.

[94krawler]

Well of course there would be a windshield and cowl tube, you'd have to have those. I thought you were talking about the lower bends on just the rear hoop with no forward tube work.

You said nothing of a windshield bar only a A-pillar.

[locknload]

You said nothing of a windshield bar only a A-pillar.

I figured that was implied. I've never seen a partial without one.

[94krawler]

I've seen so much ghetto junk on the trails nothing is assumed.

[BeaterToyota]

yadda, yadda, yadda

blah, blah, blah

yadda, yadda, yadda

blah, blah, blah



So I was trying to figure out the door latch setup. There's a zillion ways to do it. I ended up going with the type that you just push down on and the doors pop open...

First, I tacked the locking mechanism so it can't get accidentally locked.
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-09/1276123669_doors_016.jpg

This will be the lever/button/latch mechanism that will stick up out of the top. Just push it down to open.
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-09/1276123876_doors_012.jpg

I welded a little piece of flat stock across the notch on the piece above so that it is permanently attached to the whole lock assembly
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-09/1276124025_doors_017.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-09/1276124183_doors_018.jpg

With it in place...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-09/1276127090_doors_021.jpg


http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-09/1276125490_doors_020.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

I got the driver side completed. Still have some more welding to do on the passenger side.

I didn't worry about making it pretty with Bondo or finding a matching paint color 'cause they'll probably get trashed in the first couple trips.

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-12/1276384576_doors_022.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-18/1276916293_doors_023.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-06-18/1276916828_doors_024.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

Well, the old beater is almost 23 years old (it's an '88 but it was built in Oct '87). It's starting to show its age: the frame is getting a little bit rusty, and it needs some major attention before it hits the trails again. I've beat the crap out of it for the last eight years and it's catching up with me now.

At EC4RJ I broke the front of the frame. I finally got around to pulling the winch mount off tonight to take a look. It's worse than I thought...

I tapped it with the 3 lb hammer and it caved in:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-07-23/1279939585_broken_frame_002.jpg

It's not totally clear in the pic, but the front cross member is cracked all the way from the front to the back, right where it welds to the frame rail:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-07-23/1279939933_broken_frame_003.jpg

The back side isn't any better (yeah, my steering box leaks):
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-07-23/1279940179_broken_frame_009.jpg

I got to poking around with a pry bar and opened up the hole a bit. The cross member is like 1/16" metal, but it was so rusted it was thinner than the body's sheet metal:
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-07-23/1279940264_broken_frame_010.jpg


My original plan was to weld up the cracks and then plate the cross member on three sides: front, top, and back. After pulling the winch and really getting a look at it my only option is to cut it out and replace the whole cross member. I'll build a new one out of 2.5" square tube, once I get off my ass and source some.

[dtrailtaco]

i think i have some 2.5" tube 1/4 wall you could have a peice man ill check that might be the inside measurement though.

[94krawler]

Brace the frame and the steering box up really good now and you wont have to worry about it again.

[BeaterToyota]

i think i have some 2.5" tube 1/4 wall you could have a peice man ill check that might be the inside measurement though.
Thanks JD. I might have to take you up on the offer if you have some. I need about 30".

Brace the frame and the steering box up really good now and you wont have to worry about it again.
Yep. Jenn bought the TG steering mount kit from Kajo for my birthday. Once I get the crossmember replaced I'll put a shit ton of gussets and braces in the corners, etc.

[dtrailtaco]

yeah i have plenty checked it today its 2.5" outside with 1/4 wall. i can cut you a piece one evening. i leave for california next sat night though, how soon you need it. i could meet up one night this week though after work if you want. you not to far up the road.

[BeaterToyota]

Thanks for the offer JD, but I picked some up after work tonight. About $10 for 4 feet of 2.5"x2.5" 1/8" thick.

[BeaterToyota]

After a late start today, I finally got around to breaking out the sawzall and doing some work. Got everything cut out. Now I need to cut the new piece to fit and get it welded in...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-14/1281822020_broken_frame_011.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-14/1281822192_broken_frame_012.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-14/1281822353_broken_frame_013.jpg

[locknload]

Needs more triangulation.

[BeaterToyota]

Nah. I'm gonna stick with rectangulation.

[BeaterToyota]

Got the new cross member cut up tonight. In case you couldn't tell, it's 2.5"x2.5"x1/8"...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-14/1281838173_broken_frame_018.jpg

It pretty much fits. Once I'm totally happy with the fit, and before I weld it in place, I'll get it set up to bolt the Trail Gear winch plate on...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-14/1281838327_broken_frame_015.jpg

Just needs a little massaging with the grinder tomorrow so it fits squarely and snugly...
http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-14/1281838459_broken_frame_016.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-14/1281838590_broken_frame_017.jpg

[94krawler]

Isnt your bumper mounted to that peice?

[BeaterToyota]

Isnt your bumper mounted to that peice?



It pretty much fits. Once I'm totally happy with the fit, and before I weld it in place, I'll get it set up to bolt the Trail Gear winch plate on...


:flipoff:

[94krawler]

Dammit, I should read the post's sometimes...

[BeaterToyota]

I still haven't welded it in place, but I got the winch mounting taken care of. The bottom four holes have captured nuts welded from behind. The top two are the stock brackets being reused. I'm thinking that I might add two more top mounts for the winch before I weld it all in place...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-15/1281893489_broken_frame_019.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-15/1281893666_broken_frame_022.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-15/1281893788_broken_frame_023.jpg

[BeaterToyota]

I got the two extra mounting points added on tonight. They're made of 1.5"x1.5"x1/8" square tube. Like the other six bolt holes, these two have captured nuts welded from behind. I was always a little hesitant with doing hard winch pulls (for good reason considering the condition of my frame) but now I ain't too worried about it. Had to drill two extra holes in the winch plate to bolt up to these additional points.

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2010-08-17/1282098899_broken_frame_025.jpg

[slow91fj90]

Looking good.

[Littletoy]

Looks good.

You might want to reseal those calipers or axle seals. :D

[BeaterToyota]

Yeah, it's the knuckles. One of these days...

[BeaterToyota]

Figured I'd put some links to some youtube vids of my pile in this thread...

Rock Garden at Iron Pig
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J67tneo65xE

Walk in the Park at Rausch Creek
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp1HjzDSWEA&feature=related

Comp course at Rausch Creek
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5o4qXMmMeEs&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGoPJ_-2mmY&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDUqauiCuws&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ebeUe5v1rI&feature=related

[1stgenrnrdude]

those give me inspiration.

[94krawler]

Good times there :cool:

[stump jumper]

nice videos

[BeaterToyota]

Looks good.

You might want to reseal those calipers or axle seals. :D

Yeah, it's the knuckles. One of these days...

I finally got around to it. Chris Cannon hooked me up with some new seals and new felts, and I bought some Trail Gear rock rings. They're way thicker than the stock metal plates. I didn't feel like pulling the whole thing apart, and the rubber seals were in good shape, so I just pulled the old plates and felts, made a cut at the top of the new felts, and replaced them without pulling the knuckles. Kinda lame way to do it, but whatever.

Also, on the bottom side I replaced the stock bolts with round allen head bolts. One of the problems I had is that the lower two bolts on the passenger side sheared off on a rock. The round ones are lower profile and should hold up better.

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2011-02-27/1298847356_img_2854.jpg

[99SR5]

Nice! So its all ready for crozet?

[ccannon222]

I finally got around to it. Chris Cannon hooked me up with some new seals and new felts, and I bought some Trail Gear rock rings. They're way thicker than the stock metal plates. I didn't feel like pulling the whole thing apart, and the rubber seals were in good shape, so I just pulled the old plates and felts, made a cut at the top of the new felts, and replaced them without pulling the knuckles. Kinda lame way to do it, but whatever.

Also, on the bottom side I replaced the stock bolts with round allen head bolts. One of the problems I had is that the lower two bolts on the passenger side sheared off on a rock. The round ones are lower profile and should hold up better.

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2011-02-27/1298847356_img_2854.jpg

Where did you get those round head screws? Hardware store? That looks like a great idea. I've rounded the heads on the lower ones on my PU.

Chris

[BeaterToyota]

Yeah, got them from the local mom-and-pop True Value (Rankin's) in Warrenton.

[BeaterToyota]

Nice! So its all ready for crozet?

Sort of -ish.

[ccannon222]

Yeah, got them from the local mom-and-pop True Value (Rankin's) in Warrenton.

Cool. Rankin's owes the True Value by my house. I'll have to hit them up soon.

Thanks

Chris

[99SR5]

Sort of -ish.
haha sounds good enough.

[BeaterToyota]

I got one of my seats mounted today.
No rocket science or anything. Just a bracket that bolts to the seat and bolts to the factory seat mounts in the cab.
The big rusty piece was just tacked in place to keep it square while I made the tabs that are the actual mounting point to the cab...

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2012-01-14/1326591292_dscn1727.jpg

http://pics.montypics.com/beatertoyota/2012-01-14/1326591471_dscn1730.jpg

[94krawler]

Looks good in gray, mine were black and looked filthy all the time.


How do you fit in there? Looks tight but your a good bit shorter than me.

[BeaterToyota]

It's kinda tight fitting in around the steering wheel, but once I'm in it's good. I took the rig for a 15 min drive and it seemed pretty good. I might have the seat laid back a bit too much. We'll see how it goes on the trails. Can always make some adjustments if needed.

[BeaterToyota]

Also, it looks really far forward 'cause the passenger side is all the way back, with the back straight up.

[94krawler]

drive it to work and see if its comfy when driving

[mtnyota]

Looks good dude

[kajo]

Looks good. I just took mine out and replaced with buckets. They were to much of a hassle to get in and out of for daily driving.