BajaNomad - Project Rebuilt FOUR Baja

Project Rebuilt FOUR Baja

Ken Cooke - 6-22-2010 at 04:49 PM

Seven years of dedicated BAJA trail service has been tough on my '03 1/2 Rubicon, and with an upcoming 4WD adventure just one week away, I decided to rebuild my Jeep for the rigors of Baja.

Traveling the endless rock-route of the Pole Line Road near Mexicali

First on my list of upgrade/replacements will be this Body Bushing Kit from Daystar. They will make my Jeep level and cushion it from blows while traveling off highway.

The body bushings located in the middle of the cab, just under the driver and passenger doors are in perfect shape as shown here.

The body bushings nearest the front wheels are both missing due to several years of hard use and eventual neglect.

My new Colombian bride has trouble getting into the Jeep, and plans to raise the Jeep a little higher to fit my next eventual set of tires underneath it will make her entry and exit next to impossible.

Plans are to install a stock pair of Mopar side steps for Leidys to get into the Jeep without extra help. That's Tijuana (the dog) in front of the Picacho Del Diablo and the Sea of Cortez! :bounce:

My TrXus MT tires have held up well over the past 20,000 miles. They will hold up another 12 months at the rate I drive my Rubicon. The sidewalls are standard Interco Super Swamper build in terms of reliability, but a problem is lurking just behind the sidewalls of these tires that has me concerned. :!:

On one of my trips through the backcountry, I BENT one of my Cast Aluminum wheels, making it difficult to balance as shown here.

After I install control arm bushings and hope for the best, I will take the Rubicon for a test drive. Chances are that the 40 m.p.h. wobble will not improve much if at all. If this is the case, Black Rock has a new set of 909 D-window wheels I would like to bolt on.

I will have everything installed within the next 24 hours and then I will report back as to how well the Jeep rides and glides down the street.

TMW - 6-23-2010 at 07:51 AM

Ken get to work and make it right, time is wasting.

Comments from the peanut gallery

Ken Cooke - 6-23-2010 at 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
Ken get to work and make it right, time is wasting.

For the return at the San Ysidro Point of Entry

Ken Cooke - 6-23-2010 at 11:21 AM

I ordered this nifty item.

License Plate Holder
If you’re state requires a front license plate, we have a solution for you. Instead of drilling holes in your bumper or risking not running a front plate, this easy to install license plate holder attaches to your winch roller fairlead. Simply bolt your license plate to the bracket and snap the holder in place. Your license plate is now securely mounted yet easily removable for winching.

Real fast update

Ken Cooke - 6-29-2010 at 07:14 AM

The running boards did not fit my particular Jeep frame. Tell will be sold on Ebay soon. :bounce:

The body mount installation served its purpose well - the Jeep sits higher and is now level. :bounce:

My wheels had to be replaced due to too much rock hopping in Baja. American Racing no longer produces the 'Slider' wheel, so they're going to a good home. Black Rock wheels are getting installed later today. :bounce:

[img]http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:9Rsp1UTXPW-kdM:http://login.eznettools.net/adaptivestrategies/SliderChrome.jpg[/img]

The KC Daylighers need wiring repair work. This along with installing the interior rack and radiator work are next on the agenda.

I found this funny picture on-line. :lol:

David K - 6-29-2010 at 07:19 AM

See you on the island! :cool:

Ken Cooke - 6-29-2010 at 07:29 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
See you on the island! :cool:

The Jeep will be ready. :biggrin:

Ken Cooke - 6-30-2010 at 04:21 PM

Bent rim moved to rear axle - wrong rims were ordered and will not arrive for 2 weeks.

Jeep is 80% ready for the rigors of Baja. :bounce:

New Black Rock wheels!

Ken Cooke - 8-29-2010 at 07:29 AM

After completely destroying the last set of wheels, creating a predictable 45 m.p.h. "Death Wobble" everytime I hit a pothole, I decided it was time for new rims.

On a side note, these rims were ordered before my trip to Shell Island - they were purchased and ordered in June, but because of a backorder situation with 4WheelParts Wholesalers, my retailer could not get them until late July.

Now, my tires run more true, the "Death Wobble" is gone, and the Jeep has a new look. I'M COMPLETELY REBUILT FOUR BAJA! :bounce:

wessongroup - 8-29-2010 at 07:55 AM

Ken, thanks for sharing...

Your ride is looking pretty "stout" with those new rims...

You look ready to go anywhere...

Be careful, and take lots of pictures... really enjoy your reports .. along with your wife's just "striking" smile...

Can relate to the height thing.. my wife is 5'2" and getting into a "stock" Bronco is hard for her and her shopping pard.. "noproblemo" ... both want me to put steps on it so they can get in and out ... a little easier... what ya going to do.. will check ebay and see if yours might work..

Happy trails...

One question, that jack... you have... on the back.. what advantage to do you find over a hydraulic ? I'm pretty sure I could not rise a vehicle using a beastie like that ... now days..

[Edited on 8-29-2010 by wessongroup]

Ken Cooke - 8-29-2010 at 08:01 AM

We were driving through Newport Beach yesterday at dusk, and alongside us was a lifted TJ Sport with the Mopar steps that I plan to have tack-welded to the frame of my Jeep. I never sold the steps, and I plan to add them within the next month.

My next set of tires will either be 34" or 35", so these will be helpful for her ingress/regress. I don't see a need to go any taller. This is more of a want than a need. :spingrin:

Ken Cooke - 8-29-2010 at 08:12 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by wessongroup
One question, that jack... you have... on the back.. what advantage to do you find over a hydraulic ? I'm pretty sure I could not rise a vehicle using a beastie like that ... now days..

[Edited on 8-29-2010 by wessongroup]

My Hi-Lift Jack also comes with a base to use in sand or soft dirt to stabilize the jack. It does take some motivating to get the Jeep in the air, and to change tires. But, that's a good justification for traveling in groups as opposed to exploring the backcountry alone. :!:

David K - 8-29-2010 at 11:34 AM

Wheels look great Ken!

Good choice... thanks for the update... Hope we can go four wheeling with you again, soon!

We had fun last month!...

Ken Cooke - 8-29-2010 at 01:47 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Wheels look great Ken!

Good choice... thanks for the update... Hope we can go four wheeling with you again, soon!

We had fun last month!...

I had a great time as well. Thanks for the additional food, use of the coffee pot, propane, and beverages. :yes:

Barry A. - 8-29-2010 at 02:48 PM

That's a great rig, Ken. I am envious!!!!

Barry

wessongroup - 8-29-2010 at 02:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by fishabductor
Wesson. The jack can lift to 48" it can be used as a winch, or as a spreader in the case you bend something and need to be straightened out. A hi lift jack is a necessity in off roading. With a hydraulic, and big tires you'd need to bring lots of wood blocks just to reach the axle to change the tire.

Ok.. your right about the height.. it is a "big guy".. had not thought about using as another tool.. but, can see how one could..

Just not this old guy... see that it has a 36" handle.. one could get some leverage with that.. it certainly is another tool..

Thanks, it all helps...

Ken Cooke - 9-10-2010 at 05:48 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
That's a great rig, Ken. I am envious!!!!

Barry

Thanks, Barry. No, I didn't sell the Rubicon for a "dedicated rock crawler" (as I alluded to in the other thread). I'm just looking at changing the tires soon since the tread is getting low, and the road noise is getting on the loud side.

Step

Steve&Debby - 9-18-2010 at 09:04 PM

Ken ,I would think twice about haveing a step welded to the frame if I were you.Any thing that hangs down will be something to hang up on a rock.I have 38 inch tires on my Jeep ,My wife wanted a step to get in the Jeep.I made one that she can put in place to get in and then she can reach down and remove it so it won't get hung up on anything.
Just a thought.

bajalou - 9-18-2010 at 09:42 PM

Some make a hanging step from some chain welded on to the jeep.

Ken Cooke - 9-19-2010 at 07:16 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Steve&ebby
Ken ,I would think twice about haveing a step welded to the frame if I were you.Any thing that hangs down will be something to hang up on a rock.I have 38 inch tires on my Jeep ,My wife wanted a step to get in the Jeep.I made one that she can put in place to get in and then she can reach down and remove it so it won't get hung up on anything.
Just a thought.

I completely agree about the step equation. Here is an example of my more extreme conditions I travel in Baja.

My steps mounted will be up high enough to be out of the way of most trail obstacles...I hope.

Steps mounted to Jeep w/33" Tires (w/longer wheelbase LJ Model)

Mounted up high (w/longer wheelbase LJ Model)

(w/longer wheelbase LJ - Charleu Gap, AZ)

I don't think the steps will hang too low.
(again, w/longer wheelbase LJ)

Russ - 9-19-2010 at 07:30 AM

A perfect potty step :light:

bajalou - 9-19-2010 at 07:38 AM

What you're showing us in these pictures is a more of a running board than a step. And running boards leave pretty good clearance.

Ken Cooke - 9-19-2010 at 07:42 AM

You're right, Lou. This running board has much higher clearance that your typical low-hanging nerf-bar/step.

bajamedic - 9-19-2010 at 08:42 AM

Ken, you might look into an electric swing down step; I had a Kodiak SideWinder Automatic Step installed on my Dodge PU. It drops down approximately 6-7 inches when the door is opened; it swings up within 1” when the door is closed. The step is one addition I would do again. JH

wessongroup - 9-19-2010 at 10:41 AM

Thanks to all on the input on "steps" .... it all helps...

YosarianRem - 9-26-2010 at 12:43 AM

Turn away from the dark side.....FJ 60 with OME Heavy Springs, ARB Lockers front and back and you're done.

Ken Cooke - 9-26-2010 at 01:06 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by YosarianRem
Turn away from the dark side.....FJ 60 with OME Heavy Springs, ARB Lockers front and back and you're done.

Personally, I feel that Toyota's don't have very much personality. I had one challenge me on the trail in Joshua Tree almost a year ago, and it was a draw - he was running 35" tires and had better underside clearance, too.

TMW - 9-26-2010 at 09:26 AM

Toyota's are better known for their quality. Over their lifetime which is very long they require less maintenance in their stock form. The Tacoma has a proven track record that no other mini or mid size truck can match. Until they came out with the 4 liter engine in 2005 my complaint was they were under powered with an automatic transmission. While I also take issue with some of the interior egonomics they are an excellent truck. I also think the camry meets similar standards for cars. The older Tundra truck seems to have been better than the new model Tundra but I don't have a lot of experience with either.

I don't want to stir a hornet's nest...

Ken Cooke - 9-26-2010 at 01:05 PM

The price it would cost to take a new Tacoma and make it similar to a Jeep Rubicon would be an extra $15,000.00 That is a lot of money, imo.

Dynatrack Dana 44 Straight Axle Installed by All-Pro - $8,000.00
4:1 T/C Reduction (Marlin Crawler or Inch Worm) - $3,000.00
Longer Differential Breather Tubes - $300.00
ARB Air Lockers w/Compressor Installed to 4.56:1 - $3,000.00

The outcome would be completely trick, but for the price, an Unlimited Rubicon would get me across Baja and beyond for a better price point. Plus, I could take the top off and work on the vehicle myself. So, $30,000.00 or $45,000.00??

TMW - 9-27-2010 at 10:28 AM

I wouldn't try to make a Tacoma like a Rubicon, I'd use a Toyota FJ Cruiser for that kind of project. There has been a lot of after market stuff for it shown at the Off Road Expo the past couple of years.

For a Tacoma I would add a leveling kit so LT285/75R16 tires will fit and a positration to the rear. Maybe different shocks using an external nitrogen can. That would cost under $3,000 excluding shocks at Performance Off Road in Bakersfield. I'm not a rock crawler like you and your Jeep buddies.

David K - 9-27-2010 at 11:12 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
I wouldn't try to make a Tacoma like a Rubicon, I'd use a Toyota FJ Cruiser for that kind of project. There has been a lot of after market stuff for it shown at the Off Road Expo the past couple of years.

For a Tacoma I would add a leveling kit so LT285/75R16 tires will fit and a positration to the rear. Maybe different shocks using an external nitrogen can. That would cost under $3,000 excluding shocks at Performance Off Road in Bakersfield. I'm not a rock crawler like you and your Jeep buddies.

The 2009 and newer Tacomas have TRAC (with engine output regulation) and AUTO LSD (no engine regulation for a 'posi traction' effect on the rear). Uses the brake system instead of differential cluthces or gears, to slow free spinning wheel and transfer torque to traction wheel. Replacing brakes is a normal maintenance and a lot cheaper than rebuilding a differential!

If the Tacoma has the Off Road TRD package, then it also has a locking rear differential.

If the Tacoma is a 4WD, then it has TRAC in 4WD High Range (limited slip front and rear, no enigine regulation), like posi-traction front and rear.

If the Tacoma is a 4WD Off Road TRD then in addition to the above, it has Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) a system in Low Range that matches tire rotation across the axle to provide the traction benefits of front and rear lockers, without the steering issues lockers have. It is amazing!

With only one tire having traction... even one front tire... the A-TRAC will pull your truck out. :bounce:

Ken Cooke - 9-27-2010 at 10:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David KWith only one tire having traction... even one front tire... the A-TRAC will pull your truck out. :bounce:

I'll believe it when I see it. You up for a demonstration?

TMW - 9-28-2010 at 06:26 AM

The use of a braking system to control wheel spin is OK on rain and ice and snow and to a certain extend in the sand. I have that on my GMC called auto 4WD. But it's not good if you are trying to rock your vehicle back and forth. To me it's kind of like the ABS system. Great for pavement driving but not worth much in the dirt. And yes I know DK has tested his system and they work as prescribed. I guess I'm getting too old to have to think about what system I want to engage or I'm just set in my ways.

Also the locking rear only works in 4WD low range, unless they changed it in the newer models.

I like the positraction (which I had in my Toyota) because there are no vaccum lines or wires etc to turn it on and off, it's locked all the time. The only drawback is that going around a corner on pavement you don't want to step on the gas unless you want to impress your friends with the wheel spin. But a positraction is not much different in that reguard than the locking differential that comes in a GM 4x4 truck. It's locked below 25 mph and unlocks above. They went to that system due to spin outs and accidents with ambulences on ice. One wheel on ice the other on dry pavement caused problems.

[Edited on 9-28-2010 by TW]

David K - 9-28-2010 at 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TW
The use of a braking system to control wheel spin is OK on rain and ice and snow and to a certain extend in the sand. I have that on my GMC called auto 4WD. But it's not good if you are trying to rock your vehicle back and forth. To me it's kind of like the ABS system. Great for pavement driving but not worth much in the dirt. And yes I know DK has tested his system and they work as prescribed. I guess I'm getting too old to have to think about what system I want to engage or I'm just set in my ways.

Also the locking rear only works in 4WD low range, unless they changed it in the newer models.

I like the positraction (which I had in my Toyota) because there are no vaccum lines or wires etc to turn it on and off, it's locked all the time. The only drawback is that going around a corner on pavement you don't want to step on the gas unless you want to impress your friends with the wheel spin. But a positraction is not much different in that reguard than the locking differential that comes in a GM 4x4 truck. It's locked below 25 mph and unlocks above. They went to that system due to spin outs and accidents with ambulences on ice. One wheel on ice the other on dry pavement caused problems.

[Edited on 9-28-2010 by TW]

Well, it works... went in and out of Mision Santa Maria without using the rear locker... just the A-TRAC... including the deep water, steep rock grades, etc. It works! When I (on purpose) stuck my truck at Bahia Santa Maria with open differentials (VSC Off Mode) on the beach... I engaged the A-TRAC and it drove my truck out of the stuck, without deflating tires or clearing away sand.

Here is what we have for drive choices (4WD Off Road TRD, '09 and newer):

2010 TRD OFF-ROAD 4WD with Hydraulic Brake Booster and 9 drive modes:

1) 2WD: VSC and TRAC active, engine regulated ('Limited Slip Lite').
2) 2WD: 'AUTO LSD' ('TRAC OFF MODE'). No engine regulation for 'strong' limited slip.
3) 2WD: 'VSC OFF MODE' (TRAC is off for 'open differential').

4) 4WD-Hi: VSC and TRAC active. No engine regulation for 'strong' limited slip.
5) 4WD-Hi: 'VSC OFF MODE' (TRAC is off for 'open differentials').

6) 4WD-Lo: VSC and TRAC are both off in L4 ('open differentials').
7) 4WD-Lo: 'A-TRAC' on gives a 'locker-like, super strong' limited slip, front and rear.
8) 4WD-Lo: Rear Differential Locked and open front differential (A-TRAC off).
9) 4WD-Lo: RR DIFF LOCK + A-TRAC on, 3 MPH limit.

You can choose how you want to wheel... open diffs, or limited slip...

wessongroup - 9-28-2010 at 09:32 AM

Must admit DK.. .... that is some kind of transmission and/or control over your vehicles wheels when getting the hp to the ground....

Thanks for telling what it is.. had not had it explained so well.... my, my... those folks from Japan.... very interesting....

David K - 9-28-2010 at 09:42 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Originally posted by David KWith only one tire having traction... even one front tire... the A-TRAC will pull your truck out. :bounce:

I'll believe it when I see it. You up for a demonstration?

Okay, open your eyes!

Note, 3 tires on rollers, one tire on the ground, but is also blocked... !

In deep sand, 32 psi, all four wheels turning just as if he had front and rear lockers:

A-TRAC demo showing front tire in air nearly 'locked' to opposite tire with traction:

[Edited on 9-29-2010 by David K]

David K - 9-28-2010 at 09:51 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by wessongroup
Must admit DK.. .... that is some kind of transmission and/or control over your vehicles wheels when getting the hp to the ground....

Thanks for telling what it is.. had not had it explained so well.... my, my... those folks from Japan.... very interesting....

Stuff like this is a thrill to have and use in Baja or off road, anywhere.

I can take a Tacoma from the dealer and go to places like Mision Santa Maria without ANY aftermarket modifications... pure stock, stock tires... no extra $$$. That (to me) makes it a superior investment to other 4WD vehicles... and I use the truck in my daily work, at home... as well as any other driving needs, just like a four door 5 passenger sedan. The added benefit is that Toyotas are made so strong and well... they just don't fail you out there... at least never failed me in 10 years of driving them!

wessongroup - 9-28-2010 at 10:03 AM

Ken, DK is making a pretty good case... plus your a family man.. or may be, I would imagine...

Old Grandpa DK is making that nice riding four door look pretty good.. plus that extra room for the little Ken's.. plus room for the food.. too..

But, me I'm way too old, plus way to cheap to spend that amount on just about any vehicle... don't need ... and wants were something I started taking under advisement a long while back....

But, you guys enjoy.. you both appear to be having a great time.. and that is what it is really all about...

Thanks to all... keep learning more every day... it's all good...

[Edited on 9-28-2010 by wessongroup]

David K - 9-28-2010 at 09:30 PM

We do have fun... and Ken and I kid each other about Jeeps vs. Toyota, etc.

Here are both our rigs on Shell Island, last July 4th...

Even Art (edm1) was driving with ease in his motorhome, once the air pressure in the tires was lowered enough!

It was scary for Art however, when he arrived on the island and even with the front and rear ARB lockers activated, he was buried with high tide coming closer!

We spotted Art, two miles up the beach and Ken and I hoped into my Tacoma and went to help!

Ken got to work on the shovel while I poured buckets of sea water in front of the tires, as Art was under clearing away the differential and lowering the air pressure!

Art was sure happy to achieve floatation!

NOMADS: Friends helping friends!

TMW - 10-2-2010 at 09:59 AM

I know three places DK has never been in his Toyota.

David K - 10-2-2010 at 10:01 AM

At least!

Ken still has not responded to the A-TRAC demo I posted above... !!

wessongroup - 10-2-2010 at 10:07 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
At least!

Ken still has not responded to the A-TRAC demo I posted above... !!

Don't be too hard on him....

His wife may have seen it... she may be "thinking" too...

Not that impressed

Ken Cooke - 10-2-2010 at 12:10 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Originally posted by David KWith only one tire having traction... even one front tire... the A-TRAC will pull your truck out. :bounce:

I'll believe it when I see it. You up for a demonstration?

Okay, open your eyes!

A-TRAC demo showing front tire in air nearly 'locked' to opposite tire with traction:

My Rubicon operates virtually the same as the Toyota A-TRAC does w/o having to toggle switches. The Rubicon Dana 44 rear axle comes with a limited slip that is 'always active.' Have you noticed that I never locked my differentials in the sand on Shell Island? I just got in and drove. Using a locking differential on the sand would increase my turning radius causing me to turn the steering wheel, but continue traveling in a straight line.

I think for the casual traveler of rutted dirt roads, the FJ/Tacoma works fantastic.

Don't bring my wife into this...

Ken Cooke - 10-2-2010 at 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by wessongroup
His wife may have seen it... she may be "thinking" too...

With all of the hoopla over Toyota quality recently, she is afraid of the brand and their legacy over quality issues. She told me she wouldn't ride in a Toyota vehicle for fear of loss of life, etc.

With the Jeep brand...it's an entirely different story. :dudette:

Anza-Borrego w/Baja Grande art designer&son, and "Mad" Mike

Berdoo Canyon Road - Joshua Tree National Park
[The wife of this driver was egging me on for having a Jeep, that I couldn't go where their Toyota could go with 35" BFG KM2s, etc. I climbed the same loose hillclimb in the same number of tries, and showed them that my Rubicon was more capable w/33" Interco TrXus MTs, a shorter wheelbase, AND a DROPPED CENTER SKIDPLATE!) Go Jeep!

Mrs. Cooke was proud of her husband for defending the "Jeep Honor" - "Mad" Mike walking to his Unlimited Rubicon in the background.

Parked alongside Berdoo Canyon Road/Geology Tour Road

Mormon Rocks - Cajon Pass

[Edited on 10-2-2010 by Ken Cooke]

wessongroup - 10-2-2010 at 12:50 PM

Your a good sport Ken... thanks..

And thanks also for your pictures.... really appreciate your sharing...

Really glad you guys get out and enjoy your vehicle, what ever it may be ......... I don't have a preference... its all about getting out and going.... to most of us

Getting to be able to do things together which both enjoy is special ..... good for you

Keep it on the wheels ...... and keep us posted on your adventures...

TMW - 10-2-2010 at 03:42 PM

Ken you're funny. I think your wife was saying she won't ride in a Toyota because she needs to be with you so she can instruct you on how to drive off road to keep from tearing up your Jeep. Remember all the parts that need replaced or repaired.

David K - 10-2-2010 at 04:04 PM

Ken those Toyota issues were intirely invented by GM... if Nissan where the top U.S. seller, than they would have made it up on Nissan. It was perverted what this government did. The terrible Santee accident happened because two floor mats were used instead of one in a loaner Lexus. The other issues were no greater than those found on Fords or other makes.

When Jeeps roll... is that Jeep's fault or driver error.. taking the Jeep beyond its abilty?

I don't push any buttons either... just go into 4WD Hi on the beach and TRAC is automatic. A-TRAC is automatic when you go into Low Range once the button is pushed one time after buying your truck. That allows people to de-activate the limited slip/ locker action when they want open differentials... and some do prefer it that way... Toyota gives you the option.

Here are our choices... but the standard modes work fine if you don't want to push a button...

Here is what we have for drive choices (4WD Off Road TRD, '09 and newer):

2010 TRD OFF-ROAD 4WD with Hydraulic Brake Booster and 9 drive modes:

1) 2WD: VSC and TRAC active, engine regulated ('Limited Slip Lite').
2) 2WD: 'AUTO LSD' ('TRAC OFF MODE'). No engine regulation for 'strong' limited slip.
3) 2WD: 'VSC OFF MODE' (TRAC is off for 'open differential').

4) 4WD-Hi: VSC and TRAC active. No engine regulation for 'strong' limited slip.
5) 4WD-Hi: 'VSC OFF MODE' (TRAC is off for 'open differentials').

6) 4WD-Lo: VSC and TRAC are both off in L4 ('open differentials').
7) 4WD-Lo: 'A-TRAC' on gives a 'locker-like, super strong' limited slip, front and rear.
8) 4WD-Lo: Rear Differential Locked and open front differential (A-TRAC off).
9) 4WD-Lo: RR DIFF LOCK + A-TRAC on, 3 MPH limit.

You can choose how you want to wheel... open diffs, or limited slip...

YOU SEE, FREEDOM is having choices... and not needing to pay more with aftermarket additions. You can buy a Tacoma and take it straight to Mision Santa Maria or Shell Island, without needing to buy anything else!!! My Tacomas have never broken down or been unable to take me 4 wheeling because they were waiting for some part to be replaced on them.

[Edited on 10-2-2010 by David K]

FEATURES: Tacoma/FJ/Unlimited Rubicon 2011 MSRPs

Ken Cooke - 10-2-2010 at 10:00 PM

The Tacoma V6 has a rear locking differential, Bilstein shocks and fog lamps retailing for $27,000.00

The FJ Cruiser V6 for $$26,680 is more 4x4 intensive w/a frame based off of the Land Cruiser Prado w/32" Tires, 3.90:1 Differential gears (manual), 4:1 Transfer Case gearing (just like the Rubicon), TORSEN limited slip system & Electronic REAR (only) Locking Differential, A-TRAC, BFG-ATs, Bilstein shocks, and LEV emissions.

The Unlimited Rubicon retails at $28,775 and comes standard with...are you ready?

- 32" BFG Rubicon-edition Mud-Terrains
- Tru-Lock FRONT AND REAR Electric-locking differentials
- Dana 44 Front and Rear Straight axles! :bounce:

- 4.10:1 Differential Gearing :bounce:

- ELECTRIC SWAY BAR DISCONNECT :bounce:

- Mopar Rock Rails
- Steel underbody armor
- Low Speed Tuneable Monotube Mopar shocks

The Toyota is more expensive when you add the decal packages, MP3 systems, etc. But, the Rubicon is built rock-ready. I think it depends on what someone wants.

David K - 10-2-2010 at 10:13 PM

Front lockers make trail steering near impossible... The guys with it on the Mision Santa Maria run complained that they couldn't maneuver with the front locked... A-TRAC has no interference with steering, but provides the traction of lockers.

Anyway Ken, all I did was provide you with the evidence YOU asked for (that A-TRAC could pull a truck from a stuck with only one tire, a front tire in the demo, having traction, and it was blocked as well...) It is as effective as front and rear lockers without hindering steering. It is just new technology (well about 10 years old, and on Tacomas for 3) that other car owners don't understand or don't want to believe in.

In the end both our vehicles can get to Mision Santa Maria and back... they just do it differently... and while a ladder isn't needed to get into my truck, at least your bumper didn't catch on a ledge and get pulled, like mine! :light:

Not true

Ken Cooke - 10-2-2010 at 10:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K

Anyway Ken, all I did was provide you with the evidence YOU asked for (that A-TRAC could pull a truck from a stuck with only one tire, a front tire in the demo, having traction, and it was blocked as well...) It is as effective as front and rear lockers without hindering steering. It is just new technology (well about 10 years old, and on Tacomas for 3) that other car owners don't understand or don't want to believe in.

David, Rewatch the video, and notice toward the end of the video how the driver had to power through the mogul with his REAR TIRES. I'm not sold on the A-TRAC system. The front suspension doesn't help, either. With straight axles and a disconnect system, the FJ would be unstoppable, but the I.F.S. and no front lockers make it not work nearly as well. But, I doubt the I.F.S. would hold up under constant load. :!:

David K - 10-2-2010 at 11:12 PM

The video I am talking about ("How A-TRAC Works") is what I described... 3 of 4 tires are on rollers and the last tire (front right) has a block in front.

Normal 4WD or even rear lockers on wouldn't help, but with the A-TRAC activated and a bit of gas for the sensors to detect the three wheels without traction, torque was transfered to the only tire on firm ground... and it pulled the TUNDRA full size truck (not an FJ) over the block and off the rollers... The video was not professionally done and the narrator mis identified what was on when he was describing... but the effect was perfect.

The other two video I included were showing with traction poor on all 4 tires (sugar sand test), you do get true four wheel drive with A-TRAC. The 3 rd video is a close up of the tires so you could see the locking action of the tire in air, which again transfers torque to the opposite tire.

Ken, I love Jeeps too... but I wanted you to see how my truck works as you didn't understand it by what you posted earlier...

One thing Jeeps are better at!!!

David K - 10-2-2010 at 11:17 PM

Getting you back in touch with Nature and the Great Outdoors! :lol:

(thanks to Nomad 'Dezert Mag' for the photo link)

Ken Cooke - 10-2-2010 at 11:21 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
The video I am talking about ("How A-TRAC Works") is what I described... 3 of 4 tires are on rollers and the last tire (front right) has a block in front.

My friend Kenny was over visiting - Although he is a Ford guy, he is an impartial 3rd party. When he saw that this test was on asphalt and not hard-packed dirt, he simply laughed.

David K - 10-2-2010 at 11:24 PM

The test was on rollers where the tires would spin and the truck not move, without A-Trac or a front locker on... what difference does it make what the rollers were placed on.

mtgoat666 - 10-2-2010 at 11:29 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
those Toyota issues were intirely invented by GM... if Nissan where the top U.S. seller, than they would have made it up on Nissan. It was perverted what this government did. The terrible Santee accident happened because two floor mats were used instead of one in a loaner Lexus. The other issues were no greater than those found on Fords or other makes.

some of the toyota computers are faulty, some their designs are crap, and it is clear that toyota and feds buried evidence of defects

dk: wake up! your obsession with toyota has blinded you, toyota is not your family, toyota is a corporation without a soul.

Ken Cooke - 10-2-2010 at 11:30 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
The test was on rollers where the tires would spin and the truck not move, without A-Trac or a front locker on... what difference does it make what the rollers were placed on.

The bed of the Tundra was unladen, but at least the front axle had some pull to it.

David K - 10-3-2010 at 12:03 AM

Yes... and traction improves on pickups with weight in the bed... forces the back tires to bite... all the better demonstartion when the bed is empty. Anyway... as I said way above, days ago... The A-TRAC will move you with only one tire having traction... and you can keep it on all the time you are in Low Range... no matter how twisty the trail. :bounce:

...the last time I needed my front locker

Ken Cooke - 10-3-2010 at 12:12 AM

I was in Big Bear 3 weeks ago, and the stairstep I traveled was terribly off-camber and had it not been for the FRONT locking differential, my Jeep would not have made it up Gold Mountain.

David K - 10-3-2010 at 07:52 AM

Next time you go there, let us know!

David K - 10-3-2010 at 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

You go to bed reading Karl Marx and Lenin every night?

mtgoat666 - 10-3-2010 at 09:05 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

You go to bed reading Karl Marx and Lenin every night?

dk:
you are a fool to place so much trust in toyota. they care more about bottom line than they care about you.
it makes perfect sense for you to say stupid things, but how do you link criticism of toyota to writings of marx or lenin,.... what goes on in the brain of DK?

TMW - 10-3-2010 at 11:23 AM

Goat go back to Off Topic. This is the Off Roading section.