Offroading therad

[Element207]

I was just wondering if anyone has asked about getting an offroad thread put up ? Seems like the demand for 4x4 info is rising. Just thought I would bring the idea up.

[Gearhead2012]

Wouldn't be a bad idea...but this is an offroading thread. I think you mean like an offroading section. Could be right under like, street/strip, and car audio. Then again, we don't want to take too much away from the suspension section and all. I had wondered if the new 5.3 section would pull too much out of the old engine and driveline section before...but it seems ok so far. It could be interesting though...

[Element207]

Wouldn't be a bad idea...but this is an offroading thread. I think you mean like an offroading section. Could be right under like, street/strip, and car audio. Then again, we don't want to take too much away from the suspension section and all. I had wondered if the new 5.3 section would pull too much out of the old engine and driveline section before...but it seems ok so far. It could be interesting though...

yeah section. I think it would get a lot of use yet still not take away from other sections. That way if someone has a specific 4x4 question they can go to the section and find all the info instead of having to search around in threads. Just my 2 cents.

[the roadie]

An FAQ would be a good start, to point people to as a sticky. Guess I better get cracking and write one. Then the noobs can find info easier. Every spring it's the same thing. Two years ago I was the noob without a lift who got stuck in the mud like a goof.

[Element207]

An FAQ would be a good start, to point people to as a sticky. Guess I better get cracking and write one. Then the noobs can find info easier. Every spring it's the same thing. Two years ago I was the noob without a lift who got stuck in the mud like a goof.

that was me $1500 and a whole summers work ago... now im ready to take it on.

[the roadie]

that was me $1500 and a whole summers work ago... now im ready to take it on.Funny you should mention that feeling. Besides the mud, for me it was one specific trail - Coyote Canyon. Long-timers will remember me talking about that one. I first drove my AWD GMC Safari van through a couple of easy washes and streams to the bottom of the hard part six years ago. And I turned back. Wisely. Then I drove the stock Envoy to the same point, twice, and turned back. But with the Envoy I knew it could be made worthy, so I shook my fist at the trail and vowed in my best Arnold voice: "I'll be back!".

And I made it after a lot of mods.

http://www.roadie.org/collins6.jpg

http://www.stargazing.com/blog/DSCN4196.jpg

[Element207]

Funny you should mention that feeling. Besides the mud, for me it was one specific trail - Coyote Canyon. Long-timers will remember me talking about that one. I first drove my AWD GMC Safari van through a couple of easy washes and streams to the bottom of the hard part six years ago. And I turned back. Wisely. Then I drove the stock Envoy to the same point, twice, and turned back. But with the Envoy I knew it could be made worthy, so I shook my fist at the trail and vowed in my best Arnold voice: "I'll be back!".

And I made it after a lot of mods.

http://www.roadie.org/collins6.jpg

http://www.stargazing.com/blog/DSCN4196.jpg

man I want to try hitting up trails like that soooo bad. Im sick of Mud , well kinda, no never mind. But id still love to take a wack at desert driving. When do you think youll have the recent video up?

[the roadie]

man I want to try hitting up trails like that soooo bad. Im sick of Mud , well kinda, no never mind. But id still love to take a wack at desert driving.Har! first time Teebes got in touch with me and said he wanted to duplicate some of my mods, I took him on a few desert trails he had no idea that a stock TB could handle. Then we went to the bottom of Coyote Canyon, and I told him to park and ride shotgun with me. He helped spot rocks and stack with me and we made it to the top, had lunch (I fried up some hot dogs), and then back down to where his stock TB was waiting. I could almost hear him mutter: "I'll be back."

And he did it. Now I've got SDFullerC on the hook for the same, now I've put in his BDS lift with him.

I think we'll go back there next Saturday now Teebes has 33's and do it again.

[Element207]

Har! first time Teebes got in touch with me and said he wanted to duplicate some of my mods, I took him on a few desert trails he had no idea that a stock TB could handle. Then we went to the bottom of Coyote Canyon, and I told him to park and ride shotgun with me. He helped spot rocks and stack with me and we made it to the top, had lunch (I fried up some hot dogs), and then back down to where his stock TB was waiting. I could almost hear him mutter: "I'll be back."

And he did it. Now I've got SDFullerC on the hook for the same, now I've put in his BDS lift with him.

I think we'll go back there next Saturday now Teebes has 33's and do it again.
sounds awsome... maybe some time when I get out of high school ill take a road trip out there and take a run at the rocks. :undecided . I am getting so excited to install my BDS lift this weekend.:D :woot:

[unkljon]

Yeah, The day I got my lift installed, I went to PA and hit some trails

Next i need rock sliders, but will try to fab something with a shield and 3 cross supports so that it functions as a true rock slider :)))

http://gallery.trailvoy.com/data/506/medium/exhaust1.jpg

[jmlock]

Dang, I need to hit the trails after seeing those pics. Especially after seeing your pics and vids, Roadie. I've, I mean my wife, has had our TB for just under a year and it's only been on dirt roads. Don't get me wrong, I use to wheel a few years ago, but I just haven't had the time. But this summer will be different. This one is still completely stock though. It's sad, but I've been living my past through y'alls pics.

My poor driveway queen. :(

http://www.fordf150.net/photos/data/4002/DSC00014.JPG

[the roadie]

Next i need rock sliders, but will try to fab something with a shield and 3 cross supports so that it functions as a true rock slider :)))Just so we're on the same page, rock sliders are rocker panel protection and can act as a fulcrum to pivot you around a rock that would otherwise punch in your door. Skid plates are armor for your oil pan, transfer case and gas tank.

These are rock sliders:

http://www.roadie.org/slider1.jpg

[Element207]

Just so we're on the same page, rock sliders are rocker panel protection and can act as a fulcrum to pivot you around a rock that would otherwise punch in your door. Skid plates are armor for your oil pan, transfer case and gas tank.

These are rock sliders:

http://www.roadie.org/slider1.jpg

I love those rock sliders... were did you buy them, or did you have them fabricated for you?

[the roadie]

I love those rock sliders... were did you buy them, or did you have them fabricated for you?Nobody makes 'em standard. These were custom fabbed. Search and ye shall find: http://forums.trailvoy.com/showthread.php?t=13850

[Element207]

Nobody makes 'em standard. These were custom fabbed. Search and ye shall find: http://forums.trailvoy.com/showthread.php?t=13850

just checked out the thread... thanks for the link. Im gona see if I can get something kinda like it made up.

[Gearhead2012]

I just bought/installed the tubular side steps (that actually used to be on JamesDubs ride) which I know hinder performance a little, but I'll confess, I bought them just for looks. I thought about investing in some rock sliders...but we don't really have rocks around here.

[the roadie]

...I'll confess, I bought them just for looks.Blasphemy! Get thee over to the bling-bling spinny-rim forums! :nono: http://www.deuce-usa.com/media_gallery2/pics/customers/lilmaxso8.jpg
..but we don't really have rocks around here.Oh, OK, then. :D

[cgriffin_5139]

Just so we're on the same page, rock sliders are rocker panel protection and can act as a fulcrum to pivot you around a rock that would otherwise punch in your door. Skid plates are armor for your oil pan, transfer case and gas tank.

These are rock sliders:

http://www.roadie.org/slider1.jpg

Sweet sliders, has your truck been on the rubicon?

[Wut_is_pewter]

I agree there should be an offroading section. i acctually ahve 22" rims with a low pro tires but for you guys' it would be helpful and i miust confess i spend more time reading about lift kits than lowering kits and more time looking at muddy TV's than freshly polished TV's. i honestly love the way mine looks but yours are more interesting to erad about so get yourselves a section and keep the pics coming!:thumbsup:

[the roadie]

Sweet sliders, has your truck been on the rubicon?The sliders were one of the required items, but I called off my 2006 trip because I clearly wasn't armored well enough front and rear and bottom. This year, if my fabricator designs and gives me all the stuff I've contracted for, I'll be ready for a scheduled September trip to the easier eastern third of the trail. (From Tahoe to Observation Point and down Cadillac Hill and return to Tahoe.)

I've also got a plan to go with a professional Rubicon guide (http://www.4x4abc.com/4x4trips/first.html), using one of his Jeeps, and scout out the rest of the trail. Whatever I do, it's planned to NOT embarrass us in front of a lot of carnage-loving spectators.

The next thing I'll be posting about this week (hopefully) is CAD concepts for the custom front and rear bumpers. Stay tuned.

[cgriffin_5139]

I guess what i was asking is this why does your truck say rubicon on the side, if it has never been there?

[PROSPHOTO]

I guess what i was asking is this why does your truck say rubicon on the side, if it has never been there?

Easy man...That's about the only place he hasn't been!
But I'd bet he'll conquer it once he has some more armor; I don't think anyone on this forum would doubt it!

[the roadie]

I guess what i was asking is this why does your truck say rubicon on the side, if it has never been there?It's a fakey-fake wannabe sticker I had custom made - in the same spirit some folks slap Z71 emblems on their trucks even though GMC never had a Z71 option for GMT360s. A conversation starter as it were. I had an Autozone employee outside his store on a smoke break tell me that it couldn't be real and that only Jeep has a "Rubicon" edition. I said I knew, but that the fake sticker was a lot less dumb than the fake tape-on hood scoops they sold. :-)

After I've actually TOUCHED the Rubicon Trail, I get to wear THIS emblem:

http://www.rockytrail.com/ProductImages/rubicontrailsticker-1s.jpg

[teebes]

I think a 4x4 section would be absolutely great! Have been pondering this for sometime and think we are getting a decent amount of interested parties these days.

+1 :thumbsup:

[cgriffin_5139]

Easy man...That's about the only place he hasn't been!
But I'd bet he'll conquer it once he has some more armor; I don't think anyone on this forum would doubt it!

I don't doubt it either, that truck is nice. I guess what I'm saying is this; I wouldn’t put a sticker on my truck that says Rubicon. If I haven't been up it with my truck that’s all.:yes:

[the roadie]

I guess what I'm saying is this; I wouldn’t put a sticker on my truck that says Rubicon. If I haven't been up it with my truck that’s all.:yes:I respect that. I look on it as a mission statement - a goal. Rubicon or BUST.

But as I have quoted in other threads - my "why I offroad" motto is like this:

JFK:
We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win...

[cgriffin_5139]

I respect that. I look on it as a mission statement - a goal. Rubicon or BUST.

But as I have quoted in other threads - my "why I offroad" motto is like this:

JFK:
We choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win...

Cool, have you ever been to Truckhaven with it?

[the roadie]

Cool, have you ever been to Truckhaven with it?Been nearby, at Calcite Mine Trail and all around Ocotillo and Borrego, but not yet in Truckhaven. This years TDS Safari got moved to Ocotillo because of lawsuits, etc., but I don't enjoy crowded trails and hordes of folks anyway. I typically go the deserted places to commune with cactus and the sky. :yes: Yes, I know Rubicon isn't at all deserted, but it's a different sort of goal. Check out my Youtube videos for a few of the places I've been. Elliot Mine is some of the best scenery and hill climbing. Coyote Canyon for rocks.

[cgriffin_5139]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dc8K7EcC8o4
Here is my X and me at TH its the black and white one!

[the roadie]

Here is my X and me at TH its the black and white one!SAS! Very nice. Why have a TB then if you have that? Or is it too squirrely on the road? I can't do a SAS on the Envoy until it's paid for in a couple of years. Then watch out.

[cgriffin_5139]

SAS! Very nice. Why have a TB then if you have that? Or is it too squirrely on the road? I can't do a SAS on the Envoy until it's paid for in a couple of years. Then watch out.

The Tb is my wifes she had it before we got married, its for trips and stuff. I also drive a 02 pete for work.

[Element207]

Just wondering if a mod could let us know if this is possible to get?

[the roadie]

Just wondering if a mod could let us know if this is possible to get?If WHAT is possible to get? You didn't quote any context. :cry:

[Element207]

If WHAT is possible to get? You didn't quote any context. :cry:
sorry my bad... just wondering if it was possible to get an offroading (4x4) catagory.

[the roadie]

sorry my bad... just wondering if it was possible to get an offroading (4x4) catagory.No problem. If the volume gets up there, the solution will be obvious. Until then, just subscribe to everything I post, along with the usual suspects, and you won't miss much. :p :laugh:

[TeamXtremeoffrd]

There's a street and strip catagory for the fast SS crew and low riders, so let's get an off road one for us who like to go slow and get dirty!:m2: :thx

[the roadie]

..so let's get an off road one for us who like to go slow and get dirty!:m2: :thxHar! Waiting for you to get the TB dirty and put THAT in your avatar instead of the Tahoe. :thumbsup: Then you'd be twice as worthy!

[TeamXtremeoffrd]

The TB's my wife's but it does get dirty. We use it for our weekend camping trips up in the mountains. I'm beginning to enjoy it more than my Tahoe.

[Gary UT]

There's a street and strip catagory for the fast SS crew and low riders, so let's get an off road one for us who like to go slow and get dirty!:m2: :thx
Is this dirty enough:

http://www.aros.net/~gary3985/misc/trailblazer.JPG

This was from our trip to Moab the week of Easter.

Gary

[the roadie]

Is this dirty enough:

http://www.aros.net/~gary3985/misc/trailblazer.JPG

This was from our trip to Moab the week of Easter.

GaryTRAIL PICS! We need TRAIL PICS! What trails did they "allow" you to go on? :eek: (I almost went - maybe next year.)

[Dacomputernerd]

Here's another vote for an offroading/4x4 section :)

[Gary UT]

TRAIL PICS! We need TRAIL PICS! What trails did they "allow" you to go on? :eek: (I almost went - maybe next year.)

We got to Moab the day the Jeep safari ended; we went four wheeling on our own. The area got an inch of rain the night before we went 4 wheeling. Being 300 miles from home and depending on the Trailblazer to tow the trailer back home limits the abuse I was willing to do to a stock vehicle with open differentials. We stuck to Schafer canyon and Long canyon. We also went out on white rim road as far as Musselman arch. On the steep downhill section of Long canyon at pucker pass, the gasoline all ran to the front of the tank and the truck would stall, that gets exciting when you are in 4 low and first gear holding the truck back.

Long Canyon:

http://www.aros.net/~gary3985/misc/Long%202.JPG

http://www.aros.net/~gary3985/misc/Long%201.JPG

The middle of Shafer canyon as seen from Dead Horse Point:
http://www.aros.net/~gary3985/misc/Shafer%201.JPG

Some of the switchbacks at the top of Shafer:
http://www.aros.net/~gary3985/misc/Shafer%202.JPG

Next time I will have to take more photos of the Trailblazer on the trails.

Gary

[the roadie]

On the steep downhill section of Long canyon at pucker pass, the gasoline all ran to the front of the tank and the truck would stall, that gets exciting when you are in 4 low and first gear holding the truck back.OUTSTANDING PICS!!! Thanks! Now I have no choice, even though Lion's Back is closed. Gotta do Moab. Always had a fantasy of doing Lion's Back (posted pics in another thread).

And thanks for the report about the gas tank. I'be been wondering about that. Having a tank that's longer front-to-back has that potential problem, but it's a tiny bit better that it stall going downhill than the alternative. Will remember to run with more fuel if possible for trails with steep downhills

[merenjay]

http://www.aros.net/%7Egary3985/misc/Long%201.JPG

Gary

I like this pic the best....looks like you do too seeing that it's your avatar :thumbsup:

Looks like a lot of fun, I only get to use my 4x4 in the snow :worried:

[sirjorge]

Gorgeus Pics!

[Blazernut]

Man that looks like fun. We need an off road section so we can off road with you via pics and vids (Way Cheaper) :thumbsup:

[Gearhead2012]

That's it...I'm moving out west...it's so flat here, and the beach and sand is fun, but even that gets old. I might take a road trip out that way sometime...maybe this summer, who knows?

[Element207]

open differentials
what do you mean? Sorry but im ready to learn some more :undecided :yes:

[Gary UT]

what do you mean? Sorry but im ready to learn some more :undecided :yes:

With a normal or open differential when one wheel has no traction the differential will not transfer power to the other wheel. A 4x4 with open differentials will get stuck if one front and one rear tire have no traction.

With a limited slip differential like the G80 when one tire has no traction and spins the differential will lock and transfer power to the other wheel.

This web page gives a basic discription of different types of differentials.

http://www.trucktestdigest.com/diffe...l%20basics.htm (http://www.trucktestdigest.com/differential%20basics.htm)

Gary

[Element207]

With a normal or open differential when one wheel has no traction the differential will not transfer power to the other wheel. A 4x4 with open differentials will get stuck if one front and one rear tire have no traction.

With a limited slip differential like the G80 when one tire has no traction and spins the differential will lock and transfer power to the other wheel.

This web page gives a basic discription of different types of differentials.

http://www.trucktestdigest.com/diffe...l%20basics.htm (http://www.trucktestdigest.com/differential%20basics.htm)

Gary
Oh cool thanks for the link and info... how would I tell which I have?

[Sparty]

:duh: oops:duh:

[Sparty]

That's it...I'm moving out west...it's so flat here, and the beach and sand is fun, but even that gets old. I might take a road trip out that way sometime...maybe this summer, who knows?
I thought there was a mountain range about a 150 miles WNW of you??:undecided

Oh cool thanks for the link and info... how would I tell which I have?
Check your glove box sticker to see if it has "G80" listed among the codes, if it does you have the locker, if not you don't.

[Element207]

I thought there was a mountain range about a 150 miles WNW of you??:undecided


Check your glove box sticker to see if it has "G80" listed among the codes, if it does you have the locker, if not you don't.

Cool thanks, ill have to check it once my car gets back from getting the new tranny. Is it possible to get the G80 locker if I dont have it, because from the way it sounds it seems really helpful and will help me get through some deeper mud. :thx

[the roadie]

Is it possible to get the G80 locker if I dont have it, because from the way it sounds it seems really helpful and will help me get through some deeper mud. :thxYes. Please read up on existing threads that mention G80. I posted a Craigslist ad that offered one for $100. Normally they're $500 and an extra $150-300 for installation. So if you have $800 saved up, and the trails are worth that much to you, live it up. I consider it an absolute necessity offroad and would cancel any planned trips if mine breaks, until I got it fixed. It's that critical.

[unkljon]

Is this dirty enough:

http://www.aros.net/~gary3985/misc/trailblazer.JPG

This was from our trip to Moab the week of Easter.

Gary

Thats muddy and I heard that Red mud/clay is hard to wash off, is that true...

Check this pic out,,,, This was muddy.:D

http://gallery.trailvoy.com/data/506/exhaust1.jpg

[Element207]

Thats muddy and I heard that Red mud/clay is hard to wash off, is that true...

Check this pic out,,,, This was muddy.:D

http://gallery.trailvoy.com/data/506/exhaust1.jpg

Yup shes just a little muddy:D NICE WORK!:thumbsup:

[Element207]

unkljon I was just looking through your Photo G. you got some really nice pics! The one where the whole front of the truck is in a mud whole, did you get out? or did you need a pull?

[sirjorge]

Count me as another vote for the new thread. It would be a good place to share locations and tips, plus a place to find wheelin buddies. I know that I am at a loss as to where to find trails that my 2wd can handle in my area, and it would be nice to have a forum where I can get that information.

However, if we get this thread for the "liftys", do we need a forum about where to drive slow and sideways over speedbumps while blaring hip hop music for the dropped sect? :laugh: Half kidding...

[merenjay]

Check this pic out,,,, This was muddy.:D

http://gallery.trailvoy.com/data/506/exhaust1.jpg

:thumbsup: Nice.....good choice of color too :cool:

[unkljon]

:thumbsup: Nice.....good choice of color too :cool:

Greens my favorite color, well at least before I had the scratches in my paint from trees and rocks :(:(

[unkljon]

unkljon I was just looking through your Photo G. you got some really nice pics! The one where the whole front of the truck is in a mud whole, did you get out? or did you need a pull?

hey,
Thanks for the compliment.
Yes, That was fun, and with some good spotting, I can honestly say I made it out own my own. I went along with two other lifted jeeps running 33"s and 37"s to rausch creek for a few days. I was able to hang with them both without getting yanked out once. Until they started black/red trails at which point I said, I would like to keep my tranny,axle, suspension, etc...

[merenjay]

Greens my favorite color, well at least before I had the scratches in my paint from trees and rocks :(:(

I have scratches too....mine aren't from a day of fun tho....unless having a futon scraped against your rear bumper and a gate slamming into the front one are considered fun :no: :crazy: :suicide:

How much fun did ya have cleaning all that mud off :laugh:

[the roadie]

..at least before I had the scratches in my paint from trees and rocks :(:(Ahhhh, that'll buff right out. And if it doesn't, it's character.

[Gearhead2012]

I thought there was a mountain range about a 150 miles WNW of you??:undecided.

it is kinda, about 200 or so. actually my parents have some land about 220 miles away that has some pretty cool trails on it. It's just that it's like 3 or 4 hours away, and the beach is only an hour, maybe 2 depending on where you go. Plus, we don't have mountains here like they have out there...the ones they've got outwest dwarf ours here in VA. Although, I've read that the Appalachains were once taller than the Rockies or the Himilayas ever were.

I'll be out there some this summer (the appalachains, not the himalayas:D ) and I'll post some pics and all. It is pretty out there, just in a different way than out west...we have trees.

[Element207]

it is kinda, about 200 or so. actually my parents have some land about 220 miles away that has some pretty cool trails on it. It's just that it's like 3 or 4 hours away, and the beach is only an hour, maybe 2 depending on where you go. Plus, we don't have mountains here like they have out there...the ones they've got outwest dwarf ours here in VA. Although, I've read that the Appalachains were once taller than the Rockies or the Himilayas ever were.

I'll be out there some this summer (the appalachains, not the himalayas:D ) and I'll post some pics and all. It is pretty out there, just in a different way than out west...we have trees.

already pumped to see the pics... :D :thumbsup:

[teebes]

So back on topic...



What's the word on getting a new section for off-roading!?!?!

Bueler?? Mods?? :thumbsup:

[ghoster]

So back on topic...



What's the word on getting a new section for off-roading!?!?!

Bueler?? Mods?? :thumbsup:

I'm just here as the forum plice. I would suggest you post a request in the proper section for Tommy to look at.


http://forums.trailvoy.com/forumdisplay.php?f=4

[teebes]

Ah! Thanks for the link. Putting in a request now :-)

Ok, opened a thread here: http://forums.trailvoy.com/showthread.php?t=24915

Be sure to bump it up, up, up... :-)

[PAblzr]

If I park my shiny TB on the grass at the mall* (technically off - road) will I be allowed to post pictures of it in the new Off Road forum?:laugh: :laugh:
* Of course I will use ramps instead of driving over the curb.:dielaugh:


Off topic to Mr roadie;

Where are those 1st draft plans for your soon to be widely copied super "impact bars"?

[Wut_is_pewter]

haha no way would i ever let the grass rub the tire shine off my TB!:laugh:

but i would still vote for an offroad section i love seen those crazy pics of flexinb suspensions and such!

[the roadie]

Where are those 1st draft plans for your soon to be widely copied super "impact bars"?My guy, Al, has been spending the last three weeks on everybody's projects except mine. I'd be angrier except they contracted him first, so I'm just waiting my turn.

But HERE are the first two renderings he threw me just an hour ago as a bone: the template of the frame and above that, the beginning of the "keep out" area of the headlights. He measured me all up, and has to model the frame area first, then design the bumper outside surface artistically, then design the internal frame to mount the two together.

So there's FINALLY some progress, even if it isn't a bumper yet! I told him 12,000 people were watching.

http://www.roadie.org/view1-1.jpg

http://www.roadie.org/view2-1.jpg

[Gearhead2012]

Sweet, it's gonna be very nice when you get it all done. Glad to see you're getting closer to having some bumpers, and some added functionality.

[Element207]

The Roadie: that looks awsome! Keep us updated on the progress. Anyway sense this has kinda turned into a "anything offroad" thread i thought id ask this question instead of creating a whole new thread as Im pretty sure the people with the answers come here anyway.

My question is what am I missing on my to do list?

My list:
Have Done
* 2" BDS susspension lift (in my bedroom ready to be installed)
* 32" Mickey Thompson MTZ's (just need to get to the shop to order them)

Future Mods
* HD Bilestines (front)
* Hi-Lift
* Fog Lights to be put on the front reinforcement (anyone have suggestions?)

What else should I do to keep the car in good shape while hitting the trails? Anything you find useful? Iv been looking into an exaust to give it more of a "hey look at me, im a trailblazer with an attitude" kinda sound. :)

[Gearhead2012]

As far as things to keep in the truck with you...I keep a good set of jumper cables, and a little crafstman tool box that was like 30 bucks, and fits perfectly under out little compartment in the rear. I also keep one of those tire plug kits in the side compartments in the rear. A jump box wouldnt be a bad idea either, if you wheel alone, and listen to the radio withthe car off like i've done, and catch yourself offgaurd. I'd like to look into a wench, but they're just so much money. And, really you can kinda use a hilift as a short wench, which is also on my "to buy list". I'm sure someone will chime in with rock sliders, but I'd only say that if you plan on running over rocky terrain...I'd look into a pair, but rocks aren't common around here. Also, a decent first aid kit isn't a bad idea.

As far as exhaust goes, I've got the 40 series flowmaster, and I love it...despite the dreaded "drone" everyone yells about. A little louder than some might be looking for...and honestly, louder than I was initially looking for, but now that it's on, I wouldnt' trade it for anything else.

[unkljon]

The Roadie: that looks awsome! Keep us updated on the progress. Anyway sense this has kinda turned into a "anything offroad" thread i thought id ask this question instead of creating a whole new thread as Im pretty sure the people with the answers come here anyway.

My question is what am I missing on my to do list?

My list:
Have Done
* 2" BDS susspension lift (in my bedroom ready to be installed)
* 32" Mickey Thompson MTZ's (just need to get to the shop to order them)

Future Mods
* HD Bilestines (front)
* Hi-Lift
* Fog Lights to be put on the front reinforcement (anyone have suggestions?)

What else should I do to keep the car in good shape while hitting the trails? Anything you find useful? Iv been looking into an exaust to give it more of a "hey look at me, im a trailblazer with an attitude" kinda sound. :)

How about exhaust work. I know that when i threw the bds lift in, my weak links were the spare tire and the muffler. I previously installed a JBA exhaust which i love, but that rear part (As most aftercat setups) are not designed with you lifting the Trailblazer. I took it to a shop, they heated it, cut the rear tip off and customer bent and welded a straight tip on which exits right out the back. Since then, I have only scrapped it a little on the bottom, but i guarantee you it would have been toast if i didnt take care of it beforehand...

Not a big deal, but just some feedback

[Element207]

Cool thanks to the suggestions and info on the exaust from both of you. I forgot about a first aid kit (shoulda been the first thing right?) ill make sure I get one ASAP and I was also thinking about a small boat fire extinguisher that could possibly mount in the back.

[Gary UT]

What else should I do to keep the car in good shape while hitting the trails? Anything you find useful? Iv been looking into an exaust to give it more of a "hey look at me, im a trailblazer with an attitude" kinda sound. :)

Dont forget tow straps and a short chain. You also need a reciever shackle to hook the tow strap to the rear of the Trailblazer.

http://www.cabelas.com/prod-1/0006915520417a.shtml

If you go off-road in a remote location bring drinking water and basic survival gear in case you get stranded.

Gary

[petge]

very nice picture and a very nice country for off road
we dont have this in switzerland
petge

[Element207]

Dont forget tow straps and a short chain. You also need a reciever shackle to hook the tow strap to the rear of the Trailblazer.

http://www.cabelas.com/prod-1/0006915520417a.shtml

If you go off-road in a remote location bring drinking water and basic survival gear in case you get stranded.

Gary

thanks for the link! Iv been looking around for one for a while but couldnt find them.

[the roadie]

...a small boat fire extinguisher ...I carry a small one within reach from the driver's seat, and a biggie in the back. Never know when you'll need one within reach, and you might use up a big one on somebody else's fire.

I'll have to post my checklist soon. As a quick response, it also includes gloves, toilet paper, a little spade for burying your poop, outdoor antiseptic wet-towels, flares, emergency D-cell powered strobe light, survival knife, space blankets, magnesium/flint fire starter, a couple of duraflame logs, six flashlights, oil, ATF, serpentine belt, couple of whistles, signalling mirror, GMRS/FRS radios, a dozen spare batteries of each size, aircraft band transceiver so I could talk to jets overhead in an emergency (I didn't have this last Saturday, but I'm a pilot, so I own one for flying emergencies), paper maps of every possible description, USGS Topo maps on the tablet PC, etc. etc. etc.

Oh, and Gearhead - it's winch, not wench. This is a wench with a wrench.

http://www.winkieworld.homestead.com/files/WRENCH_WENCH.JPG

[enjoy]

I carry a small one within reach from the driver's seat, and a biggie in the back. Never know when you'll need one within reach, and you might use up a big one on somebody else's fire.

I'll have to post my checklist soon. As a quick response, it also includes gloves, toilet paper, a little spade for burying your poop, outdoor antiseptic wet-towels, flares, emergency D-cell powered strobe light, survival knife, space blankets, magnesium/flint fire starter, a couple of duraflame logs, six flashlights, oil, ATF, serpentine belt, couple of whistles, signalling mirror, GMRS/FRS radios, a dozen spare batteries of each size, aircraft band transceiver so I could talk to jets overhead in an emergency (I didn't have this last Saturday, but I'm a pilot, so I own one for flying emergencies), paper maps of every possible description, USGS Topo maps on the tablet PC, etc. etc. etc.

Oh, and Gearhead - it's winch, not wench. This is a wench with a wrench.

http://www.winkieworld.homestead.com/files/WRENCH_WENCH.JPG
i dont think she would be much help...

[PAblzr]

If you go off-road in a remote location bring drinking water and basic survival gear in case you get stranded.

Gary
One more bottle of wine and I think the wrench wench would be quite a bit of help providing for your basic needs while waiting for help to arrive.

[the roadie]

One more bottle of wine and I think the wrench wench would be quite a bit of help providing for your basic needs while waiting for help to arrive.But much higher maintenance than the inflatable party sheep, Love Ewe. http://www.muttonbone.com You want your emergency supplies to not take up a lot of room, or to consume part of your emergency supplies. I think that particular wrench wench is a two-bottle proposition.

[Gearhead2012]

hahahahahaha...where do you dig up these photo's?

Roadie, I'll say that (even for an 'off the top of my head' list) is one of the most extensive gear lists I've ever seen. I bet it all comes in handy...I learned a long time ago that having the right tools for the job makes it a lot quicker, and less painful.

[the roadie]

hahahahahaha...where do you dig up these photo's?I just figure out a good joke or pun, anticipate that there's an image out there somewhere to fit the need, and just run a search on images.google.com

[Gearhead2012]

I just figure out a good joke or pun, anticipate that there's an image out there somewhere to fit the need, and just run a search on images.google.com

haha, you just wouldn't think that so many of those images actually existed, lol. I'm gonna try my hand at this video editing thing...if I can figure out how to use the windows program thing. Speaking of winches though...how would one mount to our trucks? I know you use one of those mounts that go into the hitch, but if one were to be mounted from the front, how would that mount up without a hitch up there? That's another couple hundred dollars of investment I can't do for a while, but eventually, it would be nice. Really though, a hilift can be used as enough of a winch to at least pull you into enough of a better position to get out. Or, at least just jack the truck up enough to get out anyway.

[Element207]

haha, you just wouldn't think that so many of those images actually existed, lol. I'm gonna try my hand at this video editing thing...if I can figure out how to use the windows program thing. Speaking of winches though...how would one mount to our trucks? I know you use one of those mounts that go into the hitch, but if one were to be mounted from the front, how would that mount up without a hitch up there? That's another couple hundred dollars of investment I can't do for a while, but eventually, it would be nice. Really though, a hilift can be used as enough of a winch to at least pull you into enough of a better position to get out. Or, at least just jack the truck up enough to get out anyway.

Im not sure you could use a winch just on your front bumper... ou might be able to get it on your reinforcment with some work but I think the best way to go would be to get a brush guard with the winch mount.

[the roadie]

Speaking of winches though...how would one mount to our trucks? I know you use one of those mounts that go into the hitch, but if one were to be mounted from the front, how would that mount up without a hitch up there? That's another couple hundred dollars of investment I can't do for a while, but eventually, it would be nice. Really though, a hilift can be used as enough of a winch to at least pull you into enough of a better position to get out. Or, at least just jack the truck up enough to get out anyway.Going down the winch route is a deep and expensive rathole. Mounting to the existing bumper reinforcing bar is not good. Not designed for that sort of stress. Most brush guards are wussy as well. AlekG went to a lot of trouble and expense to get his reinforced and bracketed up properly. My (former) Curt 31055 receiver was designed to take the force right to the frame in existing holes, not through the bumper at all. My new bumper will have a receiver, and LOTS of CAD-analyzed reinforcement behind the outer surface to spread the force properly.

And realistically, unless you're mudding or rock crawling, alone (which is semi-nuts), you'll never be in a position to use a winch. And if you are crazy like me and sometimes go alone, you also need a host of accessories - tree strap (if you're using a tree as a winch point), snatch block (pulley) if you need to pull at an angle, clevis hooks, a pull-pal winch anchor (if you're in a spot wit no rocks, trees or boulders to pull against). And the maintenance on a winch is a possible issue if you don't use it regularly.

Much better that you have proper recovery straps, not the kind with the hooks, a HiLift, and so forth. Winches for us should be LAST on the list of possible accessories. Teebes doesn't need one most times as long as he's wheeling with me. After we both get new bumpers, I can loan him mine if he's going out without me. Or find a group to wheel with and as long as there's ONE winch in the group, you're all a little bit safer.

And a good winch is $400 (used) to $900 (new). A couple of hundred dollars to mount it properly, plus $200-500 in accessories, is a serious statement of "I intend to get stuck." For that much, you could find a well-equipped Jeep buddy and PAY HIS GAS if he'll go out with you as a wingman a few times, to see if you enjoy trails and conditions that might require the use of a winch.

[PAblzr]

.....GMRS/FRS radios, a dozen spare batteries of each size, aircraft band transceiver so I could talk to jets overhead in an emergency (I didn't have this last Saturday, but I'm a pilot, so I own one for flying emergencies).....


:hijacked

roadie,

Breitling sells a watch they call the "Emergency Mission" that in addition to all the bells and whistles one expects in a pilot's watch also has a built in ELT! I think one of these would be the hot ticket for break downs in the boonies. Just activate the ELT and let the Civil Air Patrol come find your sorry a$$. At a mere $5500+ retail I am considering getting one for each wrist. Can you put a price on the life and health of you and your loved ones?

[the roadie]

:hijackedAt a mere $5500+ retail I am considering getting one for each wrist. Can you put a price on the life and health of you and your loved ones?Ummmmm, yes. :rolleyes: $1000 used to be the sticker shock point for PLBs (personal locator beacons) and sat phones for me. (And my wife is hardly ever with me because she hates the bouncing.) But the technology has advanced a LOT since I looked at them last year. Now, (not in a watch size) but a bit larger, you can get a GPS-enabled PLB for under $500!

http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/3382

http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/pics/products/3382.jpg

Hmmmm, you can rent 'em for $59 a week. BUT, I just got a coupon in the mail for 20% off anything at REI (an outdoor sports store) and that makes it highly interesting. Darn trailvoy. Every day I visit here costs me money. :rolleyes:

[teebes]

Ummmmm, yes. :rolleyes: $1000 used to be the sticker shock point for PLBs (personal locator beacons) and sat phones for me. (And my wife is hardly ever with me because she hates the bouncing.) But the technology has advanced a LOT since I looked at them last year. Now, (not in a watch size) but a bit larger, you can get a GPS-enabled PLB for under $500!

http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/3382

http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/pics/products/3382.jpg

Hmmmm, you can rent 'em for $59 a week. BUT, I just got a coupon in the mail for 20% off anything at REI (an outdoor sports store) and that makes it highly interesting. Darn trailvoy. Every day I visit here costs me money. :rolleyes:

Ahhkk.. That takes all the fun of doing stoopid stuff in 100+ degree heat. Wonder if those are useful in Mexico - Think anyone down there checks for those things?

Also, how much do the rescuers typically charge for their time if you make it out alive?

[the roadie]

Ahhkk.. That takes all the fun of doing stoopid stuff in 100+ degree heat. Wonder if those are useful in Mexico - Think anyone down there checks for those things?It's a sat-based technology, with LEO sats at 99 degree orbital inclination plus geosynchronous sats as well. 100% global coverage with the LEOs -

Q: Are there any limitations as to where I can use a PLB?

Geographically, a PLB may be used anywhere on the globe, there are no physical or legal restrictions in that regard. PLB activation is prohibited anywhere that radio transmissions are prohibited, including on commercial airlines in flight, in explosives storage and blasting areas, etc.

http://www.sarsat.noaa.gov/New_C-S_System_Overview.jpg

http://www.sarsat.noaa.gov/new.html

Also, how much do the rescuers typically charge for their time if you make it out alive?Government resources in the US are free. I couldn't find enough about non-US countries in a short search. In Mexico I bet the government resources would rescue you, then hold you hostage for ransom. :duh:

[Gearhead2012]

That's a lot of money to plan for getting lost...I suppose if you went on hikes to uncharted places a lot, it could be handy. Isn't ONStar suposed to be kinda like that, only for you car?

I suppose you're right about the winch...it is a lot of money to get into. It wasn't anything I thought of doing anytime soon, just a thought. I used to have this old Toyota Truck, I've eluded to before, that I'd take everywhere. Trouble is, I was usually the only one with 4 wheel drive, so I'd end up being the only truck back on the trails. On the beach, there really aren't many winch points, which would require the winch anchor thing. Yeah, lots to get into...and nothing I need soon. I think I'll shell out a couple hundred bucks for the HiLift, and a few accesories, and throw those in a kit I've got building that already has a couple good tow ropes, and some shovels.

[the roadie]

That's a lot of money to plan for getting lost...I suppose if you went on hikes to uncharted places a lot, it could be handy. Isn't ONStar suposed to be kinda like that, only for you car?Yes, but Onstar uses Verizon cell technology to make the call. The canyons and valleys we go into have zero cell coverage. That's why the real serious offroaders carry amateur band radio (HF or UHF), which might be able to hit a repeater, or Satphones, which always have coverage. And the PLBs also use satellites. Hope you weren't under the misconception (a common one) that Onstar uses satellites. And the cost of the PLB is like insurance. It's worth whatever it's worth in proportion to the value you put on what you're protecting. Everybody's equations are different.

[unkljon]

Off topic??
:offtopic: :offtopic:

But

Had to share the news
I have a guy fabbing me up a set of rock sliders.... Im using Round instead of the Square tubing (NO OFFENSE ROADIE/I STILL LOVE YOURS) But less surface area = better sliding.

And I may weld a flat piece of metal along the bottom so that it actually slides a bit better, but I'll wait and see..

SO
I'm taking my rocker molding off this weekend, getting measurements to him, and then I will take supports and slider up a shop, have them jack stand it, and then weld it to the underside frame...

Oh yeah///

I loved the way roadies looked, Honestly, I love the look of the rock slider on the trailvoys, It takes that truck and makes it looks bad a$$. And the herculiner spray you did on the lip also looks awesome...

more to come :woot:

[the roadie]

..But less surface area = better sliding....Very glad you're joining the RS club, but I actually thought about that a little. It may be the reason many rock sliders are powdercoated instead of being Herculined, but powder coating gives a very slippery footing surface when you use the sliders as a step to get to the roof rack. Herculiner on the top only might be optimum, but the powder coating is going to get bashed anyway, and is harder to replace. Then you're left with rattle can paint to refurb the coating.

Anyway, back to the round versus square - on granite rock, which you have more of out east, the rock won't crumble and round tube might slide better. The desert rock I see more of is almost all sedimentary sandstone, which crumbles under the weight of a car, some rocks more than others. So the choice came down to strength, and the square frame mounting tubes would weld up better to the square main rail tube. That's what decided me on the square main rail. The square tube is also at a 30 degree angle, so if it was a flat horizontal rock it could be sliding on its pointy edge instead of a flat edge. But rocks never cooperate and present their flattest face, and most often, you just have to power through and git 'er done.

http://www.roadie.org/rock3.jpg

http://www.roadie.org/rock4.jpg

[unkljon]

I think I'm going to use a square reimforced mounting plate trusset....

http://www.trail-gear.com/images/rockslidergusset2-600.jpg

[Element207]

roadie... not sure if you already posted it but how much did it cost you to get those sliders fabed?

[topprolmc]

Yes, but Onstar uses Verizon cell technology to make the call. The canyons and valleys we go into have zero cell coverage.

Really?

I have had Onstar working with no issue where people that have verizon get no signal at all....

[Gearhead2012]

I personally don't have onstar, but have heard from dealers that it is in fact satelite based...liars. They just make me sick, they'll say anything if it's what you want to hear. I've heard that it does have really good reception...like the operator is rigt next to you...although I've heard the same about verizon in general. I have sprint, and I hate them...although I have the "free phone"...which I'm sure makes all the difference in the world.

[the roadie]

roadie... not sure if you already posted it but how much did it cost you to get those sliders fabed?$350 designed, fabbed, and installed. The going price for such work is really $450 or so, especially in high cost areas like SoCal. It really took Dallas about 8 hours start to finish.
Really? I have had Onstar working with no issue where people that have verizon get no signal at all....I'm a Verizon customer, and the car hands-free cell phone works in fringe areas when my Treo doesn't. I've heard it attributed to the optimum antenna design on a large ground plane (the roof) *PLUS* for transmit power the Onstar box runs 3 Watts RF while handheld cell phones are only 600mW.
I personally don't have onstar, but have heard from dealers that it is in fact satelite based...liars. They just make me sick, they'll say anything if it's what you want to hear. The sales people are liars and/or technologically confused. The GPS section of the Onstar system is indeed satellite based. It's the only way the GPS system can work. But the communications section has absolutely zippo to do with satellites. Real sat phones cost $1-2 a minute (Globalstar or Iridium) and have larger antennas to transmit UP to orbit. GPS is a receive-only technology and can use tiny flat antennas. This is a typical sat phone:

http://www.satellitephonesdirect.com/images/iridium_9505.jpg

[Gearhead2012]

The picture didn't really work there, but I think I have an idea of what you're talkign about. I know this is a little :offtopic: but what recomendations do you have for cell phone manufacturers? It's not really so offtopic...if you think about it, people go wheeling in obscure places, and it's nice to have service, expecially when you get stuck. I've had some samsungs that really sucked...like my current one, and I had a Motorolla that I really liked. I don't know enough about the inner workings to know which company is better...and I know they all have their cheaper phones, and their quality phones, but I was just wondering your insight to this, as you seemd pretty knowledgable about antenea's and whatnot. And now back to your regularly scheduled programming.

[the roadie]

I know this is a little :offtopic: but what recomendations do you have for cell phone manufacturers?All cell phones have the same problem with low power and small antennas. I have no special data on handhelds except my first Samsung had problems, Nokias have been good, and my current Palm Treo is great.

RV'ers in the boondocks have similar challenges, and the solution most of them have locked onto is a separate external antenna - power booster. Most popular brand is Wilson, sold all over, but especially at truck stops. Search Ebay for "wilson cell" and you can find more. Does the same thing for cell phones that the Onstar system does - better external antenna for listening and 3W boosted transmit power to be able to hit a cell tower farther away. Couple hundred bucks, but you can reuse it with multiple phones or vehicles.

No I haven't bought one yet, but it's on the list. Already did the research.

[unkljon]

what about a good old fashion CB ??

[the roadie]

That, too. (Actually I carry two of 'em) Plus whistles, signalling mirrors, FRS/GMRS radios, and flares. CB in canyons is pretty much line of sight, and if you're 10 miles offroad, no guarantee anybody will be monitoring CH9 within range. I think the Cessna patrol plane the CA state parks dept uses over Borrego monitors CH9, but I usually only see them twice a day when I'm out.

[Gearhead2012]

Cool...I was just wondering if anyone happened to know any hidden secrets, lol. I think a lot of it just comes down to the old saying..."you get what you pay for". I didn't know if maybe one brand had a better antenea or something...just a random thought at 3 am. I'm getting ready to invest in a new phone...one that's worth more than the box it came in...so I figured I'd ask.