BajaNomad - Mision Santa Maria trip

Mision Santa Maria trip

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edm1 - 12-6-2009 at 05:04 PM

In Ken's 6th photo, is there any room to the left of the Jeep?

Ken Cooke - 12-6-2009 at 07:41 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BAJACAT
So Ken are up to do this ... one more time

I want to go next November or December.

Ken Cooke - 12-6-2009 at 07:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by edm1
In Ken's 6th photo, is there any room to the left of the Jeep?

Yes, there is room to the left - about 10". To the right, there is about 1 foot. Depending on how your van handle's camber will determine its ability on this trail. I have seen H2 Hummers, Land Rovers w/street-baised tires, an H3 - all make it out successfully - a YJ blew its drivetrain and was being dragged out by a Toyota Pickup, and they made it out. Lockers are an option, but are not a bad idea if they are available. My Rubicon makes it a walk in the park.

Steve&Debby - 12-6-2009 at 08:41 PM

Like Ken says, locked front and rear( rubicons are locked front and rear) and this trail is a piece of cake.I think with some good guideing the van could make it with no problem,I think he said he put a locker in the front. Hope I can make it if the trip is put together.

Ken Cooke - 12-6-2009 at 08:56 PM

Approach angles and turning radius are probably more important than having a front locker installed. Plus, are those Mud-Terrain tires you're running? The muddy swamp ate my All-Terrains for lunch, and nearly finished off my TrXus MT's when I nearly flopped on my side, and unable to engage 4lo due to being over confident on my way out last year. My AirRaid Intake was inches from sucking in the stinky swamp water and that swamp is 14 hours south of the USA/Mexico border, btw. :!:

BAJACAT - 12-6-2009 at 11:10 PM

YOU R SCARING ME kEN, just when i was making my mind in going if this trip happens by the next presidents day 2010...

Neal Johns - 12-7-2009 at 12:44 AM

The water in the swamp is usually not as deep as Ken found it.

Lockers: The first time I was there, we were in a Toyota PU with a shell but without lockers. I would not advise it without a rear locker.

Ken Cooke - 12-7-2009 at 01:04 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Neal Johns
The water in the swamp is usually not as deep as Ken found it.

Lockers: The first time I was there, we were in a Toyota PU with a shell but without lockers. I would not advise it without a rear locker.

This photo was taken right after nearly flopping my Rubicon into the swamp. The water level was just below the rear turn indicator light. :!:

Driver error contributed greatly to this situation. I was in 2WD and could not shift into 4WD because the clutch was under water (due to rain storms flooding the swamp).

This crazy guy tried winching himself to the pools! :lol:

Good luck! He plans on going there the next time he drives to Mission Impossible.

David K - 12-7-2009 at 09:02 AM

For the newbies: Engage 4WD at Rancho Santa Ynez and keep in in 4WD for the duration. Use low range for the steep grades (close to 25% of the 14.5 mile road is going up or down steep grades).

The first place where you might need 4WD is the sandy arroyo crossing 1/2 mile into the drive, and the first place where you WILL need 4WD is the deep gully crossing 1.8 miles from the ranch. After the gully, you have about a 7 mile drive that is not steep, but slow because of the rocky surface... if you just gotta, you could take it out of 4WD for that part.

It is a lot of fun, and quite a change from most Baja dirt roads today that are graded and best driven fast... This one is made for slow driven Jeeps (CJs and Wrangler Rubicons), Tacoma TRD Trucks, and others with at least 9" of min. ground clearance for minimal damage.

edm1 - 12-7-2009 at 06:05 PM

"The water level was just below the rear turn indicator light."

I'll definitely turn around if the water level is above 28 inches (my RV floor is at 30 inches) :-) And having a 146-inch WB, I don't have the turning radius . . . I think I need a long-travel airbag at the front, and another set of air-bag extensions at the rear - but they would take away the challenge won't they?

[Edited on 12-8-2009 by edm1]

David K - 12-7-2009 at 06:12 PM

It was wet in 1999 and 2003, dry in 2007... all trips in April or May. The wet was not any prioblem for my stock Tacoma or earlier when I was on a quad.

Ken has a way of getting his Jeep in awkward positions sometimes!

BAJACAT - 12-7-2009 at 08:12 PM

So is this trip is going to happen or what!, please somebody take over and run a poll to see who wants to do it. at least will know if a full size vehicle is not up to the challenge...

TMW - 12-8-2009 at 08:36 AM

I'm in. Bajacat you keep all the wannabes, maybes and well-ifs in line. This is your ball game and we will follow.

David K - 12-8-2009 at 08:43 AM

That's the spirit TW!

If I have jobs, and can take the time... it will be a great 'break-in' for the new Tacoma!

BajaRoadrunner - 12-8-2009 at 10:16 AM

Please post the details of the trip. Date, how many days, estimated departure and arrival times...
That way some of us can confirm or chicken out. :lol:

It's most likely that my wife and I will go, also a friend of mine wants to celebrate his birthday there so it would be 2 not full size vehicles going down the widowmaker. :biggrin:

Just wish it was a little warmer time like May; anyway, I'll take my wetsuit

[Edited on 12-8-2009 by BajaRoadrunner]

David K - 12-8-2009 at 10:37 AM

Tijuana to Rancho Santa Ynez: 300 miles/ 7 hours

Rancho Santa Ynez to Mision Santa Maria: 14.5 miles/ 3 hours

Previous trips we either camped at San Quintin or stayed at El Rosario and went on to the mission the next day. If you don't mind night driving in Tijuana/ Ensenada... or a LONG day driving/ four wheeling: then cross the border by 5 am or sooner and get to the mission by 3 pm so you have time to set up camp (it gets dark early in the winter).

You can camp at Santa Ynez or use their bunk house... or stay at the Desert Inn or other place in Cataviña (1.5 miles away) if you arrive at Santa Ynez too worn out for the really tough mission road that day.

Stay at least one full day at the mission or in the mission valley to enjoy some of the Baja magic that is there... Drive out, and on home or elsewhere in Baja, the following day.

Longer stays allow you to explore... hike some of the El Camino Real or Indian Trail towards Gonzaga Bay, discover Indian sleeping circles or lost Spanish gold! see http://vivabaja.com/msm

bajalou - 12-8-2009 at 12:18 PM

Well, it sure is tempting me. Will have to see a little closer to the time, but it's real enticing.

David K - 12-8-2009 at 03:54 PM

That advancing pavement south of Puertecitos makes the decision even easier for you San Felipe Nomads, huh?

TMW - 12-8-2009 at 04:59 PM

Presidents day is Monday February 15th. I don't care what day we go in on. If we want to meet at Rancho Santa Ynez on Sunday that's OK, I'll take Tuesday off as an extra day. If we want to meet on Saturday I'll take Friday off for travel. I have a little longer to go but it makes no difference which day to meet. I usually add an extra day or two to the holiday weekends anyway.

My sleeping bag is warm, my ice chest will be full and I'll bring the pickled tongue and frog legs so everyone will have a snack.

David K - 12-8-2009 at 05:01 PM

Oh TW... You are the PARTY ANIMAL!

BAJACAT - 12-8-2009 at 08:12 PM

What about this, we leave Friday( Feb-12) at 5:00 am and drive all the way to Rancho Santa Ynez we make camp there. Saturday the 13th we tackle the trip to the Mission early in the morning, because i might have to pull some of the smaller trucks, right TW ( im kidding guys).we make camp #2 in the water oasis or the mission site,and fell free to fill in the rest any ideas for Sunday.

[Edited on 12-9-2009 by BAJACAT]

Ken Cooke - 12-8-2009 at 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by edm1
"The water level was just below the rear turn indicator light."

I'll definitely turn around if the water level is above 28 inches (my RV floor is at 30 inches) :-) And having a 146-inch WB, I don't have the turning radius . . . I think I need a long-travel airbag at the front, and another set of air-bag extensions at the rear - but they would take away the challenge won't they?

[Edited on 12-8-2009 by edm1]

The H2 Hummer I watched drive up the trail had no problems whatsoever. I'm sure you'll be fine. Just air down your tires to about 18 or 20 p.s.i. to gain better traction. The first sandy arroyo will tell you if you can make it through.

In 2007, our group came across a pair of surfers in a new FX4 F250 pickup, and because of the tight swaybars and stiff All-Terrain tires they were running, they barely made it through the first arroyo, and we had to help them turn their rig around. Oh, they had a heavy camper that was in it's "Down" position which added plenty of weight to the pickup. I'm not sure why this pickup had so much trouble on this particular trail (in 4WD), but you never know the capabilities of a vehicle before tackling a trail to see what you can do behind the wheel.

BAJACAT - 12-8-2009 at 08:22 PM

You are right Ken , thats exactly why i want to go to this trip I have never push my truck to it's limits this will be a perfect time to do that, hopefully the rain will not keep us from doing this if it happens...

BAJACAT - 12-8-2009 at 08:29 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajalou
Well, it sure is tempting me. Will have to see a little closer to the time, but it's real enticing.

come Lou it would be a pleassure having you in the this trip in progress, i do feel guilty for trading matomi for this.. But there is alot guys like me that want to do this trip in company of others..

TMW - 12-9-2009 at 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BAJACAT
What about this, we leave Friday( Feb-12) at 5:00 am and drive all the way to Rancho Santa Ynez we make camp there. Saturday the 13th we tackle the trip to the Mission early in the morning, because i might have to pull some of the smaller trucks, right TW ( im kidding guys).we make camp #2 in the water oasis or the mission site,and fell free to fill in the rest any ideas for Sunday.

[Edited on 12-9-2009 by BAJACAT]

That sounds like a plan to me. I'll take off Friday and leave Bako Thursday evening to get a headstart.

TMW - 12-9-2009 at 08:58 AM

We need to get the squarecircle and his friend Phil (motorcycle guy) to come too.

BajaRoadrunner - 12-9-2009 at 10:06 AM

I'm in. Unless it rains.

David K - 12-9-2009 at 04:33 PM

I'm in, unless I'm broke! Gee... rain in Baja? I guess... but usually that area gets rain in the late summer.

If that's the case (rain), you guys want to go to the 'lost mission' and Bahia las Animas as a back up plan?

A half day exploring the mesa and walls/ dams/ sleeping circles... and then camping on the beach, 2 miles away. That's 143 miles from Santa Ynez, and will take about the same time or a touch more than the drive to Mision Santa Maria from Santa Ynez, but no 4 wheeling needed until the beach.

In January, Bahia las Animas looking south at the mesa and you can see the wall on it from there:

Approaching the mysterious walls on the mesa:

Looking towards the bay, from the long wall:

Sleeping circles on top, 1966 vs. 2009 photos:

Another option would be to go to SAN BORJA and do some exploring arond there with Jose and family!

The San Juan Mines would be a great four wheeling challenge! That's where this machine came from:

[Edited on 12-10-2009 by David K]

Ken Cooke - 12-9-2009 at 08:14 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaRoadrunner
I'm in. Unless it rains.

I went in 2008 when it rained, and because you will be so close to the Sea of Cortez, your chances of getting soaked are minimal. In Nov. 2008, it rained in El Arco, El Rosario, Ensenada, etc. But the desert remained dry. The Mission is not far from Gonzaga Bay.

View of Punta Final/Gonzaga Bay from Mission Impossible Trail:

Leaving San Francisquito heading towards El Arco:

Airing up our tires in El Arco at Hwy 1:

Guerrero Negro was soaked:

But, the next day in Rancho Santa Ines - the clouds were sparse where the rest of Baja Norte was still receiving a pounding of rain and wind:

fishbuck - 12-9-2009 at 08:20 PM

Rain is good! It keeps the dust down. :coolup:

David K - 12-10-2009 at 08:29 AM

The reason Mision Santa Maria remains better preserved than any of the other adobe missions is due to the lack of rain there (and the remote location).

The mission (Santa Maria de los Angeles) was founded by the Jesuits and was their last mission in the new world. The king of Spain had them replaced by the Franciscans (ordered in 1767, carried out in 1768).

It was the Franciscans who built the adobe church and other rooms at Santa Maria in 1768. The next year, Junipero Serra stayed there on his long walk from Loreto to San Francisco, Alta California in 1769. Serra's first mission (he founded) was San Fernando Velicata (between Santa Maria and El Rosario) and being a superior location caused the Santa Maria mission to be reduced in status to a 'visita' in 1769.

BajaRoadrunner - 12-10-2009 at 11:05 AM

Good, no rain, I'm in. :cool:

I have a trip to San Pedro Martir two weeks before MSM. A friend of mine from Mexicali organizes it every year. Driving trough Mikes Sky ranch and "las truchas". :tumble:

XRPhlang - 12-11-2009 at 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
We need to get the squarecircle and his friend Phil (motorcycle guy) to come too.

This trip looks really good to me, only one problem. Prez day weekend falls right in front of Fat Tuesday, one of the busiest days at my Cajun Restaurant. How crazy would it be to drive out from the mission on Sunday afternoon and travel back to San Luis Obispo on Monday?

BAJACAT - 12-11-2009 at 12:23 PM

For how many will be a problem to meet at the San Ysidro-TJ border on Feb-12(friday) to caravan from there or how many would like to meet us in Rancho Santa Ynez...
The dates untill now are.
Leave on Feb-12 , be on the Mission site by Feb-13, possibly leave the mission site on Feb-14(Sunday), if everything goes to plan.Drive to El Rosario to stay for the night, and then on Monday we can have breakfast and do a quick trip to Las Pintas... or maybe La Lobera... If you guys have any ideas that will be great too...

David K - 12-11-2009 at 12:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by XRPhlang

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
We need to get the squarecircle and his friend Phil (motorcycle guy) to come too.

Not so crazy... if you don't mind driving every day...

The reason I suggest spending one full day in the mission valley: The 'Baja Feeling' will be better if you can just chill a bit and maybe spend Sunday resting or hiking or exploring the ruins, aqueduct, springs, oasis, El Camino Real, bulldozed grade where the road building effort to Gonzaga was abandoned, petroglyphs, Indian Trail to the canyon... etc.

BAJACAT, if we can go, we will meet you at Rancho Santa Ynez Friday afternoon or evening...

Waiting at San Ysidro to caravan might be fine if these were Baja newbies affraid to drive in Mexico solo, but this is a Baja Nomad group and already should be doing trips solo (nomad style). We all might have different driving speeds or stop needs... Going 300 miles in a caravan is a ways. Nothing wrong with that if that's what you want or need to do.

However, going 15 miles over rough roads slowly with frequent stops for photos, beer and laughs is more our style!

See http://vivabaja.com/705 for a Nomad 4WD caravan near El Rosario in July, 2005. Fun times and the big rig driven by Hook did fine!

[Edited on 12-11-2009 by David K]

BAJACAT - 12-11-2009 at 02:52 PM

DK my last post on this thread was meant to be in the other thread not this one but it's ok I already copy and pasted it to the other thread. And yes thats a good idea if it's better we can all meet in Santa Ynez, or if somebody wan'ts to caravan I don't mind ither, I will drive at anybodies speed, Im sort of lead foot.. you know..
That could be the plan , meeting place- Rancho Santa ynez, show up at anytime will be waiting for you guys...

[Edited on 12-11-2009 by BAJACAT]

TMW - 12-11-2009 at 07:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by XRPhlang

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
We need to get the squarecircle and his friend Phil (motorcycle guy) to come too.

Phil, that's not a problem. You could leave at noon or shortly after and probably stay in El Rosario or San Quintin Sunday night. I don't remember what it takes to get out from the mission to hwy 1 but I thought DK said it takes about three hours. So you could be on the hwy around 3 or 4pm. Are you planning on bringing your MC in your truck or trailer and leave them at Santa Ynez? If your riding your MC in we can take your camping stuff in for you.

XRPhlang - 12-11-2009 at 09:52 PM

Thanks Tom, If things work out and I can go and if I can convince the wife to go, I'll take my Tacoma 4x4. When I was there before on my bike I had to leave it at the top of the so called widowmaker and walk the rest of the way to the mission. The bike is too tall and heavy for me to get through those loose rocks without falling down a bunch. I'm not much of a 4-wheeler either, but don't tell my wife that. Leaving on Sunday afternoon and making it to San Quintin would make a 10-11 hours home. No problem.

Ken Cooke - 12-12-2009 at 08:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BAJACAT
DK my last post on this thread was meant to be in the other thread not this one but it's ok I already copy and pasted it to the other thread. And yes thats a good idea if it's better we can all meet in Santa Ynez, or if somebody wan'ts to caravan I don't mind ither, I will drive at anybodies speed, Im sort of lead foot.. you know..
That could be the plan , meeting place- Rancho Santa ynez, show up at anytime will be waiting for you guys...

[Edited on 12-11-2009 by BAJACAT]

That is a great idea on your part, because the people who will be there, will arrive at Santa Ynez, and you are at the beginning of that great trail with everyone ready for fun.

TMW - 12-12-2009 at 10:22 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by XRPhlang
Thanks Tom, If things work out and I can go and if I can convince the wife to go, I'll take my Tacoma 4x4. When I was there before on my bike I had to leave it at the top of the so called widowmaker and walk the rest of the way to the mission. The bike is too tall and heavy for me to get through those loose rocks without falling down a bunch. I'm not much of a 4-wheeler either, but don't tell my wife that. Leaving on Sunday afternoon and making it to San Quintin would make a 10-11 hours home. No problem.

That's great between you and DK there will be at least two Tacoma 4x4s to help if there are problems. I feel safe already. Have you talked to the squarecircle lately? Maybe we can get him in on this. Sounds like we're going to have a nice big group. I'll bring extra fire wood.

David K - 12-12-2009 at 10:31 AM

I left a message on Roy's machine... The 3 hour time did include photo and beer stops... You may be able to get out in 2 (that would be an average of 7.5 mph... mind boggeling speed on that road)! :rolleyes:

The effort is worth it...

[Edited on 12-12-2009 by David K]

TMW - 12-12-2009 at 10:54 AM

David is the 7.5 mph for that jeep? If so his Tocoma should be able to do 8 or 8.5 mph. Maybe Ken should bring his Jeep in with us to compare if he's not off to Colombia.

No Baja Until 2010!

Ken Cooke - 12-12-2009 at 04:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
David is the 7.5 mph for that jeep? If so his Tocoma should be able to do 8 or 8.5 mph. Maybe Ken should bring his Jeep in with us to compare if he's not off to Colombia.

I like to take my time on trails - especially ones that are picturesque as this one. Speeding through Baja isn't as fun as taking your time and soaking it all in.

Colombia is here in Riverside w/me, so no International travels - at least until the Green Card arrives in Summer/Fall 2010.

[Edited on 12-12-2009 by Ken Cooke]

David K - 12-12-2009 at 05:17 PM

Colombia (in Riverside) looks very good, Ken... When will you bring her to Oceanside?

Ken Cooke - 12-12-2009 at 05:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Colombia (in Riverside) looks very good, Ken... When will you bring her to Oceanside?

Look for us this Spring. I am also working on my Master's Degree, and I'm in a time-crucnch as a result. So, the Jeep sits parked most days, now.

jeremias - 12-12-2009 at 09:13 PM

That is some serious 4xing. My Ranger would get destroyed.

jeremias - 12-12-2009 at 09:18 PM

That is some serious 4xing. My Ranger would get destroyed.

Ken Cooke - 12-13-2009 at 08:03 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by jeremias
That is some serious 4xing. My Ranger would get destroyed.

Does your Ranger run at least a 31" tire? Your vehicle would be fine. What would destroy your vehicle is trying to tackle it too fast. The slower you travel on the rocky sections of trail, the better your vehicle would perform, and less likely have drivetrain problems.

One issue is if you don't have a rear locking differential, you will have problems making it out of the trail. There are several rock-crawling sections where traction will be an issue.

[Edited on 12-13-2009 by Ken Cooke]

BAJACAT - 12-13-2009 at 09:31 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Originally posted by jeremias
That is some serious 4xing. My Ranger would get destroyed.

Ken in your opinion, besides the Widowmaker in how many more(and where), places you will need a locker, Im still looking for mine with no success..

I don't believe that the big Bronco had a locker - maybe, a limited slip.

Ken Cooke - 12-13-2009 at 11:51 AM

1 section that requires a little care:

Just returning from the Swamp, you have this outcropping of rocks that needs to be negotiated. All that is needed is a tow strap, and you are fine:

Going down this same section is much easier (of course):

With 1 vehicle bringing a tow strap, you will get the rest through. Be sure to air down your tires, so that you can get that little bit of extra traction and you will be okay. Also, add a little tension to the Emergency Brake if you have an open differential, and you will also get out.

David K - 12-13-2009 at 12:25 PM

Jose: Perhaps 3 places the locking rear or limited slip would be VERY helpful.

They are all in the final 3 miles to the mission... and maybe that gully 1.8 miles from Santa Ynez... which is great place to gauge if your vehicle should go further.

BAJACAT - 12-13-2009 at 12:55 PM

Thanks DK and Ken, I have limited slip on the rear and open in the front running 3.55 gears..

Sharksbaja - 12-13-2009 at 01:11 PM

Me too 'cept I have 3.73s. If you are experienced w/limited slip differentials and how to power brake effectively you'll be fine. Hell, the trips to Manache Meadows or Malirrimo 60s' were every bit as challenging as this trip.

You should have no problem navigating that trip. Take it easy.

Both my Dodge trucks have limited slip. I can tell both rears axels are working when slipping in mud.

Burned out the clutches in my Power Wagon one time. The rear end still operated and only discovered the prob when I broke a rear axle showing off one time. Never try to light up 38" tires in low range!!! :lol:

edm1 - 12-13-2009 at 02:19 PM

Ken, that Jeep shot you have there, assuming the camera shot was level, requires as much as 27-degrees off-camber. Do you think a high-CG vehicle could maintain its balance to keep it from overturning? In otherwords, are there worse off-camber sits, say 30, 35-degrees in the entire course?

[Edited on 12-13-2009 by edm1]

edm1 - 12-13-2009 at 02:32 PM

Jose,

"Im still looking for mine with no success."

I, too, had some trouble finding the ARB locker that I need in stock, until I posted at Pirate4x4 and asked all axle/drivetrain vendors who has one in stock ready to ship. The ARB locker for my front is due for delivery this Wednesday.

Art

BAJACAT - 12-13-2009 at 05:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Me too 'cept I have 3.73s. If you are experienced w/limited slip differentials and how to power brake effectively you'll be fine. Hell, the trips to Manache Meadows or Malirrimo 60s' were every bit as challenging as this trip.

You should have no problem navigating that trip. Take it easy.

Both my Dodge trucks have limited slip. I can tell both rears axels are working when slipping in mud.

Burned out the clutches in my Power Wagon one time. The rear end still operated and only discovered the prob when I broke a rear axle showing off one time. Never try to light up 38" tires in low range!!! :lol:

Sharks how do you power brake?

BAJACAT - 12-13-2009 at 05:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by edm1
Jose,

"Im still looking for mine with no success."

I, too, had some trouble finding the ARB locker that I need in stock, until I posted at Pirate4x4 and asked all axle/drivetrain vendors who has one in stock ready to ship. The ARB locker for my front is due for delivery this Wednesday.

Art

Art ARB doesn't carry one for my crysler 9.25 dif, Im looking into Detroit lockers now..

Ken Cooke - 12-13-2009 at 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by edm1
Ken, that Jeep shot you have there, assuming the camera shot was level, requires as much as 27-degrees off-camber. Do you think a high-CG vehicle could maintain its balance to keep it from overturning? In otherwords, are there worse off-camber sits, say 30, 35-degrees in the entire course?

[Edited on 12-13-2009 by edm1]

Art,

Yes, the camera was held level during the photograph. Perhaps a clinometer $20 installed in one of the vehicles will give you a ballpark of the angles here.

This one spot was the most tippy place along with the angle where you see the Bronco skidding its way to the top. Those two places are the most difficult on the entire trail.

Saludos,

-Ken

BajaRoadrunner - 12-15-2009 at 03:53 PM

With a wide vehicle is imposible to avoid the rock that makes you get so off-camber (the one just in front of the JK's passenger side tire in Ken's picture). The first time I drove there (in a jeep TJ), one of my rear tires catch some big air by going over that rock with the front one. Now I go around it in my Jeep XJ.

In this video you can see how off-camber a FJ40 gets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9D52_Pe4Kc

Bajacat:
After the latest mods, I only feel completely safe driving my Cherokee @70MPH or less in MEX 1. My friend drives around 60mph or less so I think we will meet you at S. Ines, that way you can let your leadfoot drop al the way to the floor.

[Edited on 12-15-2009 by BajaRoadrunner]

Ken Cooke - 12-15-2009 at 06:39 PM

Quote:

You have to watch your m.p.h. - Did your TJ have swaybar disconnects? On that rock you mention, I never lifted a tire. The slower you go on sections like this, the safer and better controlled your vehicle will be.

In a high COG vehicle, a group of guys with a tug rope will be necessary.

BAJACAT - 12-15-2009 at 10:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaRoadrunner
With a wide vehicle is imposible to avoid the rock that makes you get so off-camber (the one just in front of the JK's passenger side tire in Ken's picture). The first time I drove there (in a jeep TJ), one of my rear tires catch some big air by going over that rock with the front one. Now I go around it in my Jeep XJ.

In this video you can see how off-camber a FJ40 gets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9D52_Pe4Kc

Bajacat:
After the latest mods, I only feel completely safe driving my Cherokee @70MPH or less in MEX 1. My friend drives around 60mph or less so I think we will meet you at S. Ines, that way you can let your leadfoot drop al the way to the floor.

[Edited on 12-15-2009 by BajaRoadrunner]

The leadfoot was a joke is impossible to drive that fast in Baja, I will be looking for you guys in Mex 1, just look for big red truck driving with the lights on...

[Edited on 12-16-2009 by BAJACAT]

BajaRoadrunner - 12-16-2009 at 10:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Mi TJ didn't have disconnects and I was lazy enough to not remove the links, after all, I wasn't going to drive down the widowmaker on that trip.
My XJ has disconnects which make a huge difference but I did not mention this because the trucks in the coming trip don't have them for sure.
I'm thinkin' more like a stiff suspension parade, tires in the air and full throttle fun, haha. I'm taking mi camera. :lol:

TMW - 12-16-2009 at 07:50 PM

Your not off roading if you got all 4 tires on the ground. This trip is really about whether a Tacoma has to pull a full size truck out or does the full size push the Tacoma out. People want to know.

Ken Cooke - 12-16-2009 at 09:45 PM

Tal Winograd has both a Dodge Ram and an XJ, and he said his Dodge Ram would make it through on that trail without any problems. Just air the tires down, take it slowly and enjoy the trail.

BAJACAT - 12-17-2009 at 07:14 PM

For sure will find out if this trip is full size friendly trail or not...
I have 2 straps and Im hoping not to used them..

edm1 - 12-17-2009 at 08:04 PM

"This trip is really about whether a Tacoma has to pull a full size truck out or does the full size push the Tacoma out."

I think it'd just be the big ones pulling the smaller ones. The converse is not just possible. :lol:

Of course the guys with smaller things may just have the last lough!

Ken Cooke - 12-17-2009 at 08:45 PM

TW's Toyota Pickup is very capable on the trail, but so are the full-size rigs that compete each year for the Top Truck Challenge.

TMW - 12-19-2009 at 09:22 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke
TW's Toyota Pickup is very capable on the trail, but so are the full-size rigs that compete each year for the Top Truck Challenge.

That Toyota was a great off road vehicle in Baja. After I wrecked it in Dec 2007 I took the payoff from the insurance company. When I retire next March I'm going to look into another small vehicle to explore Baja in. My daughter has an older Jeep she is giving me so I'll see what's wrong with it and maybe that will be my Baja Explorer.

TMW - 12-19-2009 at 09:27 AM

Ken at some point we need to get you and your jeep friends to do the Turquesa mine trail that the squarecircle did last year. Maybe do a write up in an off-road magizine with pictures. Jeep World or something. Needs to be short wheelbase for two places unless the trail has changed from rains etc.

It should be mid-April or earlier or late October or later. There are these little bugs that swarm around your head that almost drove us crasy on that trip during the day.

[Edited on 12-19-2009 by TW]

BAJACAT - 12-19-2009 at 09:33 AM

To bad Ken can joing us on this trip ha TW, that would be a blast. But he will be in spirit i will be wearing my BAJA GRANDE T-SHIRT.

PS. KEN I reply Chirs's e-mail and never got a responce.So I don't know if he wants to go or not.

David K - 12-19-2009 at 11:03 AM

It will be fun!

RoyMSM 013r.JPG - 41kB

Ken Cooke - 12-20-2009 at 02:22 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BAJACAT
To bad Ken can joing us on this trip ha TW, that would be a blast. But he will be in spirit i will be wearing my BAJA GRANDE T-SHIRT.

PS. KEN I reply Chirs's e-mail and never got a responce.So I don't know if he wants to go or not.

No se, amigo. Sea posible que esta preparando por las Navidades con su familia o no se. Mi prometida quiere conocer San Diego...vamos a ver las posibilidades para visitarles circa del primero? David tambien. No puedo salir por el otro lado hasta la tarjeta verde se llega.

wessongroup - 12-20-2009 at 05:11 AM

You folks have some really nice equipment for getting around down in the Baja.. have fun, it looks like a blast..

Ken Cooke - 12-20-2009 at 11:43 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by wessongroup
You folks have some really nice equipment for getting around down in the Baja.. have fun, it looks like a blast..

Tecate/La Rumorosa:

would my jeep make it to Mision Santa Maria?

fernando - 12-22-2009 at 03:29 PM

Hi I was reading some posts about the Mision Santa Maria. I want to make this trip but dont know if my car would make it. Its a Jeep comander sport (the 4WD is automatic and dont have low)

Thanks

[Edited on 12-22-2009 by fernando]

[Edited on 12-22-2009 by fernando]

BajaRoadrunner - 12-22-2009 at 05:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by fernando
Hi I was reading some posts about the Mision Santa Maria. I want to make this trip but dont know if my car would make it. Its a Jeep comander sport (the 4WD is automatic and dont have low)

Thanks

[Edited on 12-22-2009 by fernando]

[Edited on 12-22-2009 by fernando]

Check your U2U's.

BAJACAT - 12-22-2009 at 06:10 PM

come on guys let make it happen, save the dates PRESIDENTS DAY 2010 FEB 12-15 OR MAYBE TILL THE 16TH

[Edited on 12-23-2009 by BAJACAT]

TMW - 12-22-2009 at 07:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Originally posted by wessongroup
You folks have some really nice equipment for getting around down in the Baja.. have fun, it looks like a blast..

Tecate/La Rumorosa:

This looks like the cooler is overloaded.

TMW - 12-22-2009 at 07:39 PM

Quote:

Don't worry there will be plenty of tow straps.

David K - 12-22-2009 at 11:11 PM

I would think low range is essential... and locking rear differential highly recommended.

I thought just the Jeep Compass and Patriot had only high range... I am really surprised a Jeep Commander doesn't have a 2 speed transfer case!?

Double check the owners manual... :yes:

BajaRoadrunner - 12-23-2009 at 10:19 AM

I was also surprised about the Jeep commander having only full time 4wd so I investigated and it actually does have a single speed full time transfer case (I think NV140 or something like that).
They have the option for a 2 speed.

I wouldn't try it without 4low.

Hey Jose, there you go, this guy posted in my youtube channel that he made it to the mission in his full size 4x4 FORD truck with smaller tires than your truck. It's all driver now :lol:

[Edited on 12-23-2009 by BajaRoadrunner]

BAJACAT - 12-23-2009 at 07:50 PM

Hey ,dont say that now, if I don't make it the guys will make fun of me, but never the less Im ready.. lets gooo

fernando - 12-23-2009 at 11:01 PM

there is ywo types of Comander the sport (the one I have) and the trail rated one which does have low range...I think Ill pass on taking it all the way to La Mision. Its good to know as I was thinking of doing this trip on it.

Neal Johns - 12-23-2009 at 11:03 PM

Gentlemen,
Beat this:
I plan to be the first man to be driven to Mision Santa Maria by his wife for our 20th Wedding Anniversary! Feb 14, Valentine's Day. (In a camper!) :lol:

David K - 12-24-2009 at 08:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Neal Johns
Gentlemen,
Beat this:
I plan to be the first man to be driven to Mision Santa Maria by his wife for our 20th Wedding Anniversary! Feb 14, Valentine's Day. (In a camper!) :lol:

HOO RAY!!!! :bounce:

Maybe, just maybe Baja Angel should drive the new Tacoma in and I will just kick back like Neal!

Seriously, she has driven the Rubicon in CJ-5s many times!

TMW - 12-24-2009 at 08:29 AM

Quote:

Great. We need cake and ice cream. I'll bring the champagne.

Ken Cooke - 12-24-2009 at 11:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Originally posted by wessongroup
You folks have some really nice equipment for getting around down in the Baja.. have fun, it looks like a blast..

Tecate/La Rumorosa:

This looks like the cooler is overloaded.

It wasn't overloaded at all. Short control arms at angle caused the front end to lift onto 3 wheels. The front and rear were locked so I didn't lose traction.

David K - 12-25-2009 at 09:48 AM

TW, it's a 'Jeep thing'...

You should have seen these guys when we came to a boulder at the base of El Mano Canyon during a day trip south of Guadalupe Canyon! :lol:

TMW - 12-26-2009 at 10:06 AM

I remember a certain jeep being pulled by a large rock on the way up basketball hill two years ago on the pole line road run. Or maybe it was a jeep pushing the rock with it's winch cable, I forget which.

POLE LINE ROAD

David K - 12-26-2009 at 11:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
I remember a certain jeep being pulled by a large rock on the way up basketball hill two years ago on the pole line road run. Or maybe it was a jeep pushing the rock with it's winch cable, I forget which.

Built in World War II to install and maintain a telephone line from Ensenada to San Felipe (where we had a radar station)...

One of the telephone poles (and Ken Cooke):

The cobblestone road from 1943:

'Basketball Hill' so named because that is the size of the rocks on this grade:

Toyota Tacoma driven by Marian Johns up Basketball Hill!:

BAJACAT - 12-27-2009 at 02:29 PM

THIS is looking better every day.. i wish alot nomads get on the Santa maria wagon...

TMW - 1-8-2010 at 03:42 PM

I just purchased a new 4 inch wide 30 foot tow strap to help the Toyotas out.

[Edited on 1-8-2010 by TW]

David K - 1-8-2010 at 04:22 PM

Careful there TW... Both my last two Tacomas did the Widowmaker just fine.

(I know you have a Toyota, too) :spingrin:

Are you bringing the Chevy? That WOULD be a good reason for a tow strap! :light:

BAJACAT - 1-8-2010 at 11:06 PM

Hey DK I got 30k miles on my tires, they are rated to be 50k, do you think that would be a problem. I hate to buy new ones at this point. I will be taking 2 spares...

GMC

TMW - 1-9-2010 at 11:56 AM

I'll be in my Silver 2004 GMC Z71

[Edited on 1-9-2010 by TW]

TWST-14.jpg - 31kB

BAJACAT - 1-9-2010 at 01:31 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
I'll be in my Silver 2004 GMC Z71

[Edited on 1-9-2010 by TW]

Hey TW your truck is the same year as my RAM, I got 112000 miles on it and no problems so far.(knock on Wood).

PS. I hope the misses gets better..

TMW - 1-10-2010 at 10:48 AM

She (wife) is getting better everyday and looks forward to the mission trip.

I've got 95,000 miles on the GMC. I had lots of problems the first 35,000 all under warranty, thank god, reprogrammed the sofware for the 4 wheel dr. twice replaced the instrument cluster, fuel pump once, twice the gas charcoal filter and relay. Only problem since was the water pump at 90,000 started to leak a little so I had it and all the hoses replaced. I had a 2inch leveling kit installed a couple of years ago, included new torsion bar keys and add a leaf in the rear and they added 2 inches to the front shocks bottom by welding a 2 inch U shape addition. When they were doing this they found that the passenger side torsion bar cross member was broke, so they fixed that. I had heard a sqeaky type rattle after a trip to Mikes Sky Ranch but could never pin point it. No wonder the place it broke was way up inside and hard to see. They caught it while removing the torsion bar key. I run LT285/75R16 tires, stock was the LT265.

David K - 1-10-2010 at 11:02 AM

Wow... all those problems and you are brave enough to take it to Mision Santa Maria? I guess as long as there is one Toyota with a tow strap for every other brand, it will be... wait, some of those sections you can't be pulling another truck through... uggh!

TW, can you use that Tacoma that the TV station bought? :rolleyes:

TMW - 1-10-2010 at 11:19 AM

Maybe but I'm counting on you if needed.

I will say this about the company Toyota Tacoma. It's an 07 leased in Dec of 06. It has over 40,000 miles and has never been in for any repairs only tires and oil change. It pulls a 4000 lb snowcat on a trailer up a 7500 ft mountain and back down a couple of times per year, no problem. I had to add a rear leaf because the springs were too soft and bottomed badly when we had 4 people in it.

David K - 1-10-2010 at 11:23 AM

Well, if I am there and you need help... you got it!

Yup, Toyotas are just amazing in the quality and strength! The soft rear spring issue has been fixed... My new truck with 4 adults four wheeling south of the sulfur mine on the Baja 1000 and San Felipe 250 courses never bottomed out!

Now, I have to decide if I put my air bags on the new truck... I bought for my '05?

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