Scott's Trooper Modification Forum

[expeditionswest]

Now that I have decided on the Trooper as my main expedition vehicle, I am starting a new topic to highlight the mods I perform, and get feedback from all of you gurus!

Vehicle:
1998 Isuzu Trooper S
Part-time 4wd
4.3 gears with factory LSD

Current Modifications:

1.1" Torsion Bar Lift
Yokohama Geolander AT+II 285/75 R16 tires (33 x 11.1")
Superwinch manual hubs
Hard mount GPS III with external antennea and serial connection routed to center console
Hella Map light
Old Man Emu 912 rear springs for 1.5" lift
ARB 42 Fridge/Freezer

Near Term Modifications (30-90 days):

Ball joint flip / bumpstop / shock mods: Completed this weekend! I gained nearly an inch of additional extension travel http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/suspension_travel/Trooper_front_suspension.html
ARB Locker (front)
Rocker panel protection
ARB front bumper and WARN M8000 winch
New GPS System with lots of memory or a hard mount computer system http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/headscratch.gif
Safari Snorkel
Storage system with fuel and water containers, and a flat load deck (I will likely remove one, or both back seats)

Long Term Modifications (90 days to 1 year):
ARB locker (rear)
Rear bumper
Pull carpet and interior panels and rhino line
Tera 3.0:1 t-case gears
Possible roof top tent / rack system

One benefit of using the Trooper is that it can sit, unless driven on a trip. I can just park it and keep driving the Jeep back and forth to the airport. The Land Rover or whatever we replace it with will be the family/daily driver. I want to keep the mileage down on the Trooper given the upcoming investment (It already has 70k+ miles). The Trooper has been a great vehicle so far, with NO repairs required to date (not even brakes, which just amazes me).

So, what does everyone think of the modification options...?

A video of the Trooper on Chiva Falls trail near Tucson (the Three Feathers Climb) http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2003/chiva_falls/chiva_trooper.wmv
Here are some pics.





</div>

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com


Post Edited (Scott Brady) : 1/13/2004 5:09:08 PM GMT

[BajaTaco]

Scott, that ball joint flip is pretty slick. How about some sway bar disconnects? I'll bet that would help a lot.

Have you added up the prospective weight of your planned mods to see what they will add in total? I really like the HP, gears, beefy rear diff,and disc brakes all around. Should be a pretty sweet setup you will have for the engine and drivetrain, esp. after lockers are added. You are really lucky to have t-case gears available to put in there! I wish I could do that with the Taco.

I noticed a roof rack in the CDD trip pics. What happened to it?

That video is awesome! I like the pause and then controlled exit from that nasty spot at the top - nice.
</div>


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

You are right on with the sway bar disconnects. The problem I am having is due to the shape of the bar. If you disconnect the bar and rotate it up, the weird bend will be in the way of the tire while turning. I am still trying to think about a solution (like having a way to lock the bar in place, but remove the links to the suspension. I will post some pictures later today for ideas. The other solution is to remove the bar completely, but I am a little hesitant because of the long distance driving we will be doing with it (fully loaded, with trailer). http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/headscratch.gif </div>
</div>
The weight of the mods is definitely a factor that I am fighting with. The <st1:country-region><st1:place>U.S. spec payload for the Trooper is only 1080 lbs., but after some research, I found that to be related to the spring rates. Australian (Holden) Troopers have over a 1,400 lbs. payload, with the same axles, chassis, etc.About a month ago, I started a database of my equipment and modifications, which includes weight (I will make it available to the group as a resource when finished). It is just amazing how fast the weight adds up. The front bumper and winch is the big killer (about 150 lbs.)</div>
</o:p></div>
I still have the rack from the El Camino Del Diablo trip. It is a Con-ferr unit similar in size to your rack. I am going to try to avoid a roof rack, unless I go the roof-top tent route. I wouldn’t mind the roof-tent, but I have reservations about the added height and weight. Our trailer works great but it does keep your speeds pretty low on rutted trails. It moves around a lot due to the narrow track. Watch it surf the sand ruts in Sonora. http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2003/El_Golfo_2003/golfo_rovertop.wmv(big filehttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/shocked.gif )</div>
</div>
</div>

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/lol.gif the sand surfing trailer looks a little scary! Is there any consideration of making a bed inside the cargo area? Or is that going to interfere with your gear setup? Is it too short? Or would you just plan on taking the trailer on all of the trips? I see your point about the roof rack.

Regarding the winch bumper - how about a custom tube bumper with a receiver(s). And use a multi-mount winch that could be stored inside the cargo area, and used from the back of the vehicle as well?

Go ahead and post some pics of the sway bar - there has to be a way we can figure out.

Also, for near-term mods, you mentioned fuel storage. Are you going to be able to get/fab something that will fit under the body?


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

Here are some pictures of the swaybar. The swabar follows the profile of the lower control arm. When the swaybar is attached to the control arm there is plenty of clearance for the tire, but if you rotate it up, the tire will now hit the bar. It cant be rotated down for the same reason, and it would hit the ground. </div>
http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/idea.gifWhat I am considering is drilling a hole in the bar and the front crossmember. Then I would be able to pin the bar in a neutral position, as if the end links were still connected. Then I would remove the endlinks that connect to the control arms and everything should work. The problem would be the time necessary to get the end links disconnected and intall the pins through the swaybar to the crossmember. Kind of a pain in the butt.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/banghead.gif </div>
I might also modify the bar (cut off the weird bend), crush the tube at the end and make a new link hole. The end links wouldconnect to the arms closer to the priximal end. The anti-sway properties of the bar would be less effective, but the suspension would have more cross-travel (articulation) too. It would be a compromise solution that would never have to be disconnected.</div>
Thanks for the help...</div>





Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

Scott, without having actually seen your front suspension cycle, I am trying to imagine - does the end of the sway bar need to move with the lower arm? If it stays in a static position like shown in the pics, will either the upper or lower arm, tie rod, or brake linehit it when the suspension cycles? If not, then I have a couple of ideas to add to yours.

To keep the bar stationary, maybe you could work up some kind of clamp that would be really easy to slide onto the bar at the base of each side where the rubber mounts are. The clamp would have 2 "stops" on each side that would fit up against the mount so that rotational movement would be prevented in either direction. The clamp could be held in place by drilling a small hole or depression in the bar, and using a set-screw, or just using a hose-clamp type of setup that workswith friction by tightening the clamp. Kind of hard to explain in writing.

For the links - maybe you could take the existing links, and cut a piece out of the center. Then, using any number of methods, where you cut the center section out, make each piece threaded. These two threaded ends could then be connected or disconnected with a turn-buckle fitting or threaded coupling of some sort.
</div>


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

good ideas!

If the swaybar is held stationary at the 'static' load height of the suspension, clearance is good to both the UCA and LCA. I measured the distance and cycled the suspension through its travel range (as best I could without removing the torsion bars). All looks ok.

I like the 'stops' idea with a screw or pin. I think that will work. Cutting the stock links is a great idea too. Just weld a sleeve on one side and drill a hole through the rod and sleeve. Great no cost solution...

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

Just thought of something better yet - just drill a hole through the mount and rubber itself, and use a set screw or a thru-bolt to hold the bar in place http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/wink.gif

Uh oh - just thought about the stock links though - if you leave the upper and lower parts attached, but disconnected, they will likely flop around...
</div>


http://www.bajataco.com


Post Edited (BajaTaco) : 1/14/2004 12:02:25 AM GMT

[BajaTaco]

On a seperate note, how about some stinky links (http://www.4x4wire.com/news/stinkyfab/links/index.htm) for your trooper?


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

You must be telepathic... I was JUST at the stinky fab site looking at the rocker panel guards.

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[WhiteThaiGer]

Scott Brady said...
You must be telepathic... I was JUST at the stinky fab site looking at the rocker panel guards.
</div>When you said rocker panels I went to the site, since I am looking for sliders for the 4Runner. Looks like they are Izuzu people, they talk about customthough. May be I should stop by there over lunch...Turns out these guys are just a couple of miles from my house http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif


***************************************
http://www.confluence.org
http://www.usgo.org

[BajaTaco]

hehehe - we are all on the same wavelength... http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/cool.gif


http://www.bajataco.com

[JackSilb]

> Scott, that ball joint flip is pretty slick. How about some sway bar disconnects? I'll bet that would help a lot.

Baja, do you know where can I get these for the 4Runner 1996?

Thanks,
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[BajaTaco]

What, the disconnects? You are in the wrong forum http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/nono.gif This question should be asked in the "Jack's mod forum" section http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/joker1.gif . And yes, I think you definitely need some. Go check at yotatech and do a search for "disconnects". I think a guy over there named "Lars" is making them.


http://www.bajataco.com

[GoodTimes]

You guys are going at the sway bar problem all wrong. Think outside the box. OK, let GM think outside the box, and then steal their idea.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/lol.gif </div>



Here's the deal. They (GM) have been working on a electric sway bar disconnect for the Yukon's and Suburbans. It is a soliniod operated divice located in the middle of the sway bar. Push a button, it moves a cam which basically seperates 2 halves of the sway bar. The end links stay connected, the movement is in the middle of the bar. </div>



This modification is on the list of things I am working on for the jeep.</div>


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[expeditionswest]

You need to change your screen name from Goodtimes to Goodideas http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/lol.gif </div>
When I used to work in Automotive manufacturing (machining), one of our customers was Addco. We made a bunch of prototypes for their hydraulic anti sway bar system. It was going to be used by Jeep and GM. It varied hydraulic pressure to eliminate, and actually counter sway, or it could disconnect off-road. One of my favorite projects... I wonder if this is the system. </div>
Actually you have a very good idea... and it got me thinking. I could cut the sway bar in the middle and build a sleeve system with a hole. I could then attach a hard cable with a pin at the end. Engage the pin and the swaybar locks, disengage the pin, and articulation heaven... like this http://www.matkinsextreme.com/Jeeps/Bro3.htm</div>
Interesting idea: http://home.earthlink.net/~rockjaw/tech/sbdisconnect.html</div>
I do like to keep things really simple and bullet-proofthough (at least with vehicles http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/devil.gif ). I would hate to have one of those systems fail on the trail, or worse while in the middle of an emergency lane change! But it is still worth some consideration.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/headscratch.gif </div>




Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

Way cool. I like the in-cab operated cable idea.


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

Ok, this is the basic idea that I am going for...</div>
http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/Image08-me.jpg</div>


Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

Nice. That color matched bumper looks sharp. We need to photochop in some sliders http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif


http://www.bajataco.com

[GoodTimes]

Well, like you, I am slightly concerned about the thing failing during a emergency maneuver. It could be designed as a "fail safe" system (remove power, swaybar locks together), but my concern is more with the joint where I would have to cut/weld the locking mechanism to the swaybar. One of my thoughts is to get a Currie Anti-rock system made with 2 short bars, with the hex cast into them. Would be safer that way.

The system they are looking at is purely electro-mechanical. I have a "internet friend" who is on the "inside" of GM (design engineer). I hope to pick his brain sometime about this system, and the adaptability of it using GM parts (like buying the GM solinoid actuator and retrofitting it into the jeep). Like I said, it is on the "to do" list, but will likely take a few months to get to.

I like what Matkins has done, I don't like how much they are charging for it though.


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[expeditionswest]

Since this forum is about my Trooper; why not know a little more about me...
After my wife (of coursehttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/devil.gif) these are the most important things to me.... my dogs http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/hop.gif
Stephanie took this picture today, while we had the dogs out for a Mtn. Bike ride ( I am huffing in the background ). The white Alaskan Malamute is named Yukon, and he is 140 lbs (now you know why we have SUV's http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif ). The little guys name is Everest. We found him abandoned in the desert, so we saved him. He is a really happy guy now.
I figure this information will help my new friends know me better and help me make better choices accordingly. You will be more likely to http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/smashfreakb.gif or http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/yeah.gif intead of http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/notme.gif .
That's it for now (unless there is anything else someone wants to know)...
http://www.expeditionswest.com/about_us/1-15_bike%20003.jpg
</div>

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[YukonBob]

You have to love somebody named Yukonhttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/turn.gif

[GoodTimes]

140 pounds?!?http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/freaked.gif Yikes, that is a big dog. How much food do you feed 'em? My pup (lab/pit mix) is still only eating about 5 cups a day, and I cant seem to keep food around! I also am trying to figure out how she can eat 5 cups of food a day, and crap about 10 pounds.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/headscratch.gif My god! I have never seen a dog crap so much. I'm glad she is only about 35 pounds......I can't even fathom 140 pounds.

That must be the "chore" that goes to the bad kid. I can hear it now....

"you failed your math test again?!? THATS IT!!!!! Go clean up all the dog crap in the back yard!"

"But dad! I promise to do better! Please don't make me clean up the yard! You know the front end loader is broken!"

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/baja_rofl.gif








Ok...so I am a little off today. It was a long night at work.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/notme.gif


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[WhiteThaiGer]

We should do some mountain bike stuff. Dave rides too.</div>
Goodtimes, your kids will be math geniuses with that kind of punishment!</div>



***************************************
http://www.confluence.org
http://www.usgo.org

[expeditionswest]

They eat (1) 55 lb bag of dry food and (30+) 22oz wet cans a month. Money well spent :)

I am always up for Mtn. Biking, Hiking, Photography, Mtn. Climbing, and good food! Travel and fourwheeling too, but you already knew that...

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

Gorgeous dogs. LMAO at the front loader comment http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/rofl.gif

OK, that's it. We all need to decide to live in the same town. We could do more hiking, photography, biking, climbing, paddling, 4 wheeling and EATING together. So you all better start looking at houses in my neighborhood... I'll send you some real estate info http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif


http://www.bajataco.com

[JackSilb]

Hey,

Please make sure you don't feed your dogs some bones before a trip. With 140 pounds, I can just imagine the size of the !@@#$$ that will happen.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[JackSilb]

Scott,

I like the Trooper. I wish I could find the same kind of roof rack for the 4Runner. While back when I was getting mine, I called ARB they did not have one. I am not sure why.

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[GoodTimes]

Real estate info is fine, it is the J-O-B info that we all need. I need a fairly large town in order to have a customer base big enough to support manufacturing. Unless one of you gives up the winning lottery numbers, then to hell with manufacturing, I'm gonna retire!


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[expeditionswest]

I did some more work on the Trooper to improve articulation. I lowered the front suspension by about 10mm, removed the front swaybar,and then took the truck out for some articulation tests and measurements. The front moves so much better now, stuffing the tire all the way into the wheel well. The front suspension is so much more compliant that I actually get more neutral handling (less understeer) at speed on dirt. I didnt really notice any major loss in on-road handling, but I dont drive this vehicle very fast anyway. I think I will leave the sway bar off for now... (not that I would recommend any of you do that http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/eyes.gif ). The vehicle stays more level through crossed axle terrain, as the rear suspension doesn't have to do all of the work now.

The tire are 285/75 R16's or about 33" in diameter. The Trooper can fit this size without a lift, and I did not have to lower any of the bump stops. Even 1" more in diameter wouldnt fit without fender trimming. They are in there "like a glove"http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/ok-kewl.gif

Here are the results:

Front:
Compression Travel: 5" (127 mm)
Extension Travel: 3.25" (82.5 mm)
Total Travel: 8.25" (209.5 mm)

Rear:

Compression Travel: 7.75" (197 mm)
Extension Travel: 10.75" (273 mm)
Total Travel: 18.5" (470 mm)

The rear is the most impressivehttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/yeah.gif , and the measurements are with the sway bar attached. The shocks are the limiting factor in the rear. Here are some pictures.

</div>

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com


Post Edited (Scott Brady) : 1/26/2004 3:22:26 AM GMT

[BajaTaco]

This is proving to be a very fun thread. Looks like you gave your IFS quite a makeover since you started tinkering with it! I am curious, how did you lower the front susp. by 10mm? 8.25" is quite nice! The pics tell the story well. Good job.


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

I should have been more specific. I only lowered the static ride height of the Trooper 10mm by reducing the preload on the torsion bars. The truck sat tail low (slightly) without a load, so I wanted to lower the front a bit. I have dialed it in to about 1" of lift in the front. I have OME heavy rear springs that have about 1.5" lift stock (new), after 40,000 miles, the heavier spare tire and usual gear it sits about 1" now. I am going to install a 1" spacer in the rear, so when the truck is loaded for trips the vehicle is level.

Now, I am working on the fridge mounting. I have removed the 60 of the 60/40 split rear seat. Pictures to come!
</div>

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

Ahhh, okay - I see what you mean now. That makes sense that the ridefeels better now that the springs can move more. Fridge mounting? WOOOHOOO!! I'm looking forward to the next report.

Regarding the front suspension, here is one more idea for you... One of the latest "tricks" with the Tacoma crowd is to do a "diff drop" mod, whereby the front differential is actually lowered a little bit by installing spacers on the mounts. This effectively lowers the connection point of the CV axles, reducing the angle of the CV joints. The possible downside is that this will also change the angle of the front d-shaft, and you also can potentially lose some ground clearance (although depending on the skid plate, this may not be an issue). I personally have not bothered with this mod because my CV joints/boots have lasted just fine and I don't care to expiriment with the angle or possible stress on the front d-shaft and I like all of the ground clearance I can get. But, if you ever have issues with CV angles, this could maybe be a possible remedy - I don't know.


http://www.bajataco.com

[JackSilb]

Scott,

Time to change your AVATAR.
Tropper ...

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[expeditionswest]

I have completed the fridge mount for the Trooper. We can access the fridge from the passenger seat, and it leaves the back for all of our other stuff.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/fridge_mo/Trooper_fridge.html

http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/fridge_mo/images/fridge%20021_jpg.jpg

http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/fridge_mo/images/fridge%20022_jpg.jpg

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

It keeps getting better http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/ok-kewl.gif I can't wait to see this over the weekend. Very slick idea with the shrink tubing. You are really good about keeping your website updated... I should take a cue http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/smashfreakb.gif


http://www.bajataco.com

[JackSilb]

I can see lots of space. It looks huge.
Dogs, food, and gear.

You, Baja, and SteveS can open a business of field ice-cream.

Lets get that 2m radio and or a multiband.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[BajaTaco]

I like the way that extra seat slides and flips and gets around in there - that's cool! (see his write-up on his webpage to see what I'm talking about). I am not that familiar with the Trooper, so the little details catch my attention.


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

Ok, lots of new goodies to report on. http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/supercool.gif </div>
I picked up a Viair 400h compressor, which runs at 2.54 CFM @ 0psi. Big improvement over my ARB comp. @ .9 CFM It is rated to fill a 33x12.5x15 from 15 to 30 psi in 2.5 minutes. Not bad.</div>
I picked up a cool 12v digital thermometer for the fridge. Not quite as cool as baja's, but it has inside/ouside temp. volt meter, alarms, memory, and a backlight. </div>
And I bought a VHF radio. The Yaesu FT-2800m 65w</div>
Here are a few pictures. I will detail the install tomorrow. It is still to early in the week to go full Brazilian yet http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/eyes.gif </div>




Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[JackSilb]

Way to go baby.
I will probably get one of these thermometer too.

What was the rational on the radio brand and antenna?

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[BajaTaco]

WoohOO!! I can't wait to see the night shots tomorrow... http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/lol.gif Don't forget to use the flash!
That thermo looks cool - very nice design. You already have the antenna installed?? http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/shocked.gif


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

I wish that I had an elegant answer for the antenna selection, but it came down to simplicity and cost. I liked the diamond mount the best, but it was 3! times more $$, and had more moving parts. The antenna was the same price for both. The store manager I was working with indicated that there was no real measurable benefit of one over the other (diamond vs. larson). I think he was being honest, because he could have made another $50 on me if he wanted to.

The radio brand came down to simplicity. The ICOM V8000 had a fan (noise and more moving parts), and looked a little less solid than the Yeasu. They were basically the same price. I also liked the button layout on the Yeasu better, it was more logical (to me).

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[WhiteThaiGer]

Will that compressor work with an ARB locker? If so I need to get the details (size, price, etc)from you.</div>



***************************************
http://www.confluence.org
http://www.usgo.org

[expeditionswest]

Uwe,

This compressor will work great with the ARB (you need a compressor that can supply a minimum of 125 psi regulated). I will bring the info on the compressor this weekend, and you can check it out :)

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[transalper]

The 400 looks like a nice unit. I went with the 450 because it is 100% duty cycle, but doesn't put out as much air as the 400.

To run the ARBs with any non-ARB compressor, you will need to buy a pressure switch (viar has a nice one for $30 - http://www.tellico4x4.com/catalog/images/viair/via-90108.jpg), dash switch (I bought one from ARB for $12), relay, wiring, 1/8BPT-1/4NPT fitting, and misc air fittings. The solenoid comes with the locker.

Tellico 4x4 has a bunch of cool compressor stuff: www.tellico4x4.com/air/index.htm (http://www.tellico4x4.com/air/index.htm) The compressor prices here aren't great - I ended snaggin one on ebay.

</div>

Jay - 97 4Runner
www.geocities.com/transalper/4runner (http://www.geocities.com/transalper/4runner)

Post Edited (transalper) : 2/11/2004 5:04:36 PM GMT

[expeditionswest]

Thanks Jay! I like that pressure switch. The ARB unit can vibrate the blade connectors off over time. This one could be crimped and soldered. Cool!

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[JackSilb]

> The radio brand came down to simplicity. The ICOM V8000 had a fan (noise and more moving parts), and looked a little less
>solid than the Yeasu. They were basically the same price. I also liked the button layout on the Yeasu better, it was more logical
> (to me).

I am with you 100%!
Just needed you to make your ming looking at the rigs. I am glad you listened and asked to see both.
You did good on your setup. Lets put it together.

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[expeditionswest]

Here are my pictures from todays modifications. </div>
I installed a new fuse block for the "always on" accessories</div>
12v outlet for FRS radio, and mount radio</div>
Mount the HF radio in the 2nd din location (I am really happy with how this worked out)</div>
Mount the mic's</div>
Mount the thermometer</div>
I will do a full story for the website later.</div>





Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[expeditionswest]

I have been quiet on this forum because I have been wrenchinghttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/cool.gif </div>
Here is one of the latest additions... Rack install with Thule Hull-a-Port Kayak mounts. And my new Wilderness 13.5' tandem Kayak! http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/hop.gif
The write-up on the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/rack/rack.html">install is here
</A>http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/rack/images/3-1%20018_jpg.jpg</div>

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

Oh man, that is way cool. Guess what my new desktop wallpaper is? That Thule equipment looks NICE.

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/ok-kewl.gif


Looks like it's time for you to make a trip up here - we have 4 lakes within a short drive of my house. Let's paddle!


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

Steph and I are soooo ready for that. The pictures from Watson Lake looked so great...

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[JackSilb]

Aha,

I knew you had something cooking.
Adding the roof rack make a difference on the cargo area and on the look.
I am not sure what, but the Isuzu was looking too stock. Maybe the wheel type.

-JACK
</div>


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net


Post Edited (JackSilb) : 3/6/2004 2:21:06 AM GMT

[expeditionswest]

I agree, I think it needs some cool black steel wheels, and a front bumper. I am in the middle of the compressor install. More to come...http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/smilewinkgrin.gif </div>


Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

I dunno - I think the stock wheels look kinda cool. Then again, I have been wanting to change my stock wheels to custom for about 6 years now... http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif but somehow I always find other mods to spend the money on...


http://www.bajataco.com

[expeditionswest]

I finally got around to doing the article on the compressor installation in the Trooper. I am happy with the resultshttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif , and the performance of the compressor is great!</div>
Check out the install (http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/compressor/compressor.html)</div>
http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/trooper/compressor/images/comp_04%20027_jpg.jpg



Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[expeditionswest]

I also installed a pair of maglites on the side of the passenger and drivers seats. Very convenient spot.
</div>





Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

CLEAN!!! Very professional install http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/ok-kewl.gif

Man, I am surprised you got that thing to stand up on end in there! Pretty neat. I must say, your air-up time is impressive too. And the air chuck isslick - 007 will be proud of you.Nice job Scott.


http://www.bajataco.com

[JackSilb]

Very clean install.
You just make the feel bad.

I need to start cleaning my installs. They got a kind of out of hand.
After the battery bracket I will clean things up.

Good job.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[expeditionswest]

With all of the Tacoma activity, I haven't forgotten about my favorite Trooper! I just mounted a nice aluminum TJM bumper with winch frame. Not a real easy install as far as bumpers go, but it turned out pretty nice. About 40 lbs lighter than the steel unit.


I am still on the fence about the raw aluminum finish, as I usually like the all blacked out look... http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/headscratch.gif


http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/Isuzu_Trooper/flex_side_main.jpg




Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[JackSilb]

Now we are talking. So much nicer!

What is the cost difference between aluminum and steal TJMs? 30%, 50% or more?

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[JackSilb]

I like the lights too. Someone at ORW told me that they would not fit on my TJM. http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/hitting.gif
-JACK





So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[expeditionswest]

The aluminum bumper is ~30% more than the steel, and retails for just over a grand. I havent mounted the winch yet, so the ride quality hasnt changed at all, which was nice. As soon as I decide on how I like the appearance (raw aluminum or paint it black), then I will mount the Warn 8000lb winch sitting on the garage floor.





Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[BajaTaco]

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/eek2.gif

Amazing what a difference that makes in the look of the vehicle. NICE!!!

IMO, the aluminum looks great considering the color of the Trooper. Black is fine too, but I think the aluminum looks just as good (if not better, with the silver paint going on). I always love the shots you take when you do new mods.

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/ok-kewl.gif


BAJATACO.COM (http://bajataco.com)

[expeditionswest]

I think I am warming up to the raw aluminum look too. It will be very expensive to paint due to the etching and priming process, etc.


I love my test rock. It is in the front of my house, and perfect for testing suspensions....


Here is a video of me climbing the rock yesterday...http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/devil.gif


http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/Isuzu_Trooper/Trooper_rock1.wmv


Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[JackSilb]

Scott,

Were people looking at you as you were crazy? Or at this point they are already used to you?

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[expeditionswest]

That is so funny that you mention that. At first people think that I have been in an accident and ran into the rock. Next they realize that I have done it on purpose and look at me like I am on crack! ; )

The old people are the best. They almost break their necks looking at my truck, with thier eyes wide and mouth half open. Hee hee hee to much fun...

Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[JackSilb]

I am glad they did not call the police.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[BajaTaco]

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/lol.gif "I think someone has stolen an SUV and is trying to break it!"

Cool video. We need to get GT to do this too.


BAJATACO.COM (http://bajataco.com)

[expeditionswest]

A few flex pics, and the new logo on the Trooper


http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/Isuzu_Trooper/7-23_logo/


Edit:


Here are some flex videos


http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/Isuzu_Trooper/7-23_logo/DSCF2798_0001.jpg (http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/Isuzu_Trooper/trooper_front_flex.wmv)
Front Flex (2.5mb)


http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/Isuzu_Trooper/7-23_logo/DSCF2799_0001.jpg (http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/Isuzu_Trooper/trooper_rear_flex.wmv)
Rear Flex (2.5mb)









Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

Post Edited (Scott Brady) : 7/23/2004 11:04:16 PM (GMT-8)

[Ramdough]

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/bounce2.gif Geese Scott.

I am having enough trouble keeping up with you on Tacomods. Now you put a Trooper in the mix...unfair http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/rofl.gif

Looks nice.

Is the aluminum clear coated or clear anodized? My aluminum roof rack turned chalky after one trip to the beach. I would hate to have that TJM work of art turn spotty/chalky.

If you really wanted to drop some cash, you could get it black hard anodized.

[BajaTaco]

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/bounce2.gif I really dig that Trooper. Looks awesome!


BAJATACO.COM (http://bajataco.com)

[blupaddler]

Very nice...


I like the rock, we just ripped the grass, errrr, weeds out of our front yard. I might have to put a decorative/test rock in my front yard too.


http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif





The sign in the fore-corner, you guys aren't selling your house are you?

WHERE 2 NEXT</font>




robb

[expeditionswest]

Robb,


Nope, not selling the house. Our lot is on the corner of the culdesac so I let a neighbor put up their realestate sign there to draw traffic. it does get in the way of my rock though http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/smilewinkgrin.gif


On the property front though, Stephanie and I did put in an offer on a piece of paradise.... I will let you guys know moreif the offer is accepted.







Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[blupaddler]

Good news...keep us posted





Cat and I have been looking at places up in Big Bear...still unsure though


WHERE 2 NEXT</font>




robb

[expeditionswest]

Ramdough,


It is just a naked finish that has been buffed. I like that hard black anodized idea, sweet! Actually the aluminum finish has kind of grown on my, and works ok with the silver paint of the truck.


I am going to install some rock rails next, and be done for a while... Oh, and a snorkel too


Scott Brady
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com