What are you doing to your VX this week? [Text View] - Page 3

Ldub

12/12/2010, 06:50 AM

Yeah, I read all the how to's THANKS! they were a huge help. I had problems with the flat band clamps that came with the boots. I even bought the pliers and never felt like I could get hem to tighten enough to seal. They are on with screw type clamps right now, I know that's not ideal but I had to finish it up last night! Any how to's on operating some flipping flat band clamp pliers?!?

There's a special tool for tightening those flat clamps...:_wrench:

http://www.bing.com/shopping/KD-Tools-CV-Joint-Boot-Clamp-Tightening-Wrench/search?q=cv%20band%20clamp%20tool&p1=%5bCommerceService+scenario%3d%22o%22+docid%3d% 22DB9251326BBCA25E6D3F%22%5d&wf=Commerce

Should be able to get your hands on one at most any auto parts store.

A screw type clamp will eventually wear through the boot.

It's the one that looks like a can opener, you put the "stop" against where the band goes through itself, then put the free end in the winder, tighten it down, bend & trim.
Then a few taps to flatten it out, & a few layers of electrical tape if ya wanna get really fancy.

Bob Barker

12/12/2010, 06:56 AM

Well that's not the pliers I bought at all.... I'm gonna have to go back and find the right things. Thanks dub

Ebenezr

01/01/2011, 05:49 AM

Marlin

01/01/2011, 09:17 AM

I am dropping my differential and installing a new rt side cv inner cup. Here are my tips for anyone else who wants to do this. First build a 24 by24 garage with a hydraulic bay in your backyard...heated if you live North. Then invest in 2000 in air tools, get a drill press, band saw, welder, grinder and all the other tools you may need. Then those fork like things that they sell to seperate ball joints and tie rod ends....give that to your neighbor for his grill or your wife for a speghetti claw...they are useless. As for me I did it while laying on top of acorns in my driveway. In total it took me about 8 hours to get the diff down onto the pavement. I am slow, 50 years old, achey, and tend to just stare at bolts for about 15 minutes before I actually put a wrench on them. It is New Year's day - I started this the night before New years Eve by pulling the front drive shaft. I allowed this 3 days off work to get it done and take my wife shopping like I am now. Good year everyone.! (8 hours just to get it down- another ? to reinstall)

You don't need all that for a diff drop...lol. For separating ball joints, just use a sledge hammer, whack em a few times, and they pop right out, I have done it literally dozens of times on my VX. All you need is a wrench set from Harbor Freight-15 bucks, jack stands and floor jack-40 bucks for the set or so, an extra bottle jack-9 bucks or so, I recommend an electric impact-50 bucks plus another 15 for the impact socket set, 3-5lb sledge-7 bucks, a 2x4-scrap piece-free, thats about it. Should be able to get it down in 2-3 hours tops. If you lived closer, I could help you out:)

Ebenezr

01/01/2011, 11:24 AM

Marlin

01/01/2011, 12:35 PM

Hey I shopped electric impact wrench and couldn't find any such animal. So they do have them...well I will look again. Part of my time crunch is modifying the brackets. Doing it myself and using a different method than others have used. I'm using a cheap harbor freight welder , welding for the first , and loving it.

Very strange, if you search impact wrench, it doesn't show up. I searched wrench, and filtered to power tools, and voila:
http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch/result/?&category=Power+Tools&CatPath=All+Products////UserSearch%3Dwrench////Power+Tools&ResultsPerPage=27&defsortcols=&q=wrench&mode=grid&RequestData=CA_CategoryExpand

You can get 25% coupons all over the place, sunday paper, popular science and so on. I broke my first one the first time I used it and decided to take it apart rather than take it back. That was a mistake...springs and bearings everywhere. They wouldn't take it back after that. Bought another one, I have beat the piss out of it, ran it so hard the grease started smoking, and it is still going strong.

Ebenezr

01/01/2011, 05:44 PM

Yes when you google electric impact wrench there are a million of them. Here is a picture of how I modified my brackets. dropped 1.25 ". Remember this is the first time I have ever welded so laugh if you will at my welds. :).

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/0451.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/0461.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/0481.JPG

Bob Barker

01/01/2011, 06:39 PM

Do you think that will be strong enough?

Ldub

01/01/2011, 06:50 PM

Do you think that will be strong enough?

Even if it drops out... most, if not all of the steering function should remain...maybe...:smilewink

Marlin

01/01/2011, 07:03 PM

Problem would be that the failure would result in the assembly landing on the center drag link. You are putting a lot of stress on that one point, and since it isn't centered, that is a lot of leverage. I hope it works out for you, but it isn't how I would have done it for the strongest application.

Ebenezr

01/01/2011, 08:06 PM

It was fast and relatively easy. I was driving for months, unknowingly with no nut on the bolt of the right frontmost bushing. It was supported by only 3 bolts. The whole pumpkin is not that heavy. I can easily lift it. As for it hitting the road yes my linkage would catch it........:o and actually I think the crossmember under the rear of the differential would catch it first.

Ldub

01/01/2011, 08:31 PM

It was supported by only 3 bolts. The whole pumpkin is not that heavy. I can easily lift it.

.torque might be another factor you may wish to examine.

Triathlete

01/01/2011, 09:14 PM

Yep, torque will is the problem if it breaks it will do a ton of damage. Do a search of suspension link breakage...that will be the same type of damage done. Plus if you are at speed on the highway when it let's go it may not only be the vx that gets damaged. I would haves picked something a bit less critical to start welding with. At a minimum I'd have someone who knows welding check your weld joints.

Mile High VX

01/02/2011, 11:03 AM

Installed in the front cladding...

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0317.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0318.JPG

Marlin

01/02/2011, 12:32 PM

Wow, those fit perfectly.

Ebenezr

01/02/2011, 03:27 PM

Nice grill. wish I could spend time on the exterior like that.

Ebenezr

01/02/2011, 05:57 PM

OK. The dropped differential is done and in place and working. BUT I did this because I was peeved at the tripod style cv joint on the passenger side. When I order half shafts I get the 6 ball bearing type sent. So I started this project to convert and ordered a new full shaft with inner cup. Ha ha ha. So you know in order to get it on I had to seperate the joint from the cup and toss the half shaft aside-cause I will finish that joint this week. What did I find?.....a tripod joint! may I swear? (I didn't but like Curly said on the three Stooges -"I know all the woyds" Instead I did a Costello and started laughing only to end up crying.). Well, so my question to you experienced VX'rs is- what type of joint do you have on yours? esp the passenger side.? PS My body is racked with pain.

Triathlete

01/02/2011, 06:08 PM

Are you replacing the entire shaft all the way to the punkin or just from the green cup outward?
If the latter and you are using your old cup the same part number as the drivers side. From the cup out they are the same.

Marlin

01/02/2011, 06:38 PM

Hmmm, I have only seen one tripod CV on all the Zus I have torn apart, or watched get torn apart. Definitely not a stock part.

Triathlete

01/02/2011, 06:41 PM

A lot of the aftermarket pass. side complete shafts are the tripod type including the Empi's (I have one sitting in my garage).

Ebenezr

01/03/2011, 04:16 AM

I replaced the entire shaft and the green cup and it ended up being tripod. I guess that is ok...I will just replace with tripod halfshafts if needed. I ebayed the entire full shaft ,with green cup for 54$.

Ebenezr

01/05/2011, 06:04 AM

You don't need all that for a diff drop...lol. For separating ball joints, just use a sledge hammer, whack em a few times, and they pop right out, I have done it literally dozens of times on my VX. All you need is a wrench set from Harbor Freight-15 bucks, jack stands and floor jack-40 bucks for the set or so, an extra bottle jack-9 bucks or so, I recommend an electric impact-50 bucks plus another 15 for the impact socket set, 3-5lb sledge-7 bucks, a 2x4-scrap piece-free, thats about it. Should be able to get it down in 2-3 hours tops. If you lived closer, I could help you out:)

Marlin How do you hit the joints in order to release them? do you broadside them? do you just hit the top joint or the bottom in order to slide a CV in.? Do you use a pickle fork separator?

Marlin

01/05/2011, 11:10 AM

Marlin How do you hit the joints in order to release them? do you broadside them? do you just hit the top joint or the bottom in order to slide a CV in.? Do you use a pickle fork separator?

Just hit the housing the balljoint taper sits in. You really gotta whack it though. Sometimes it will take two or three smacks. The guys at the ZU meet showed me that. NO PICKLE FORK!! That thing destroys the boots on the ball joints.

Triathlete

01/05/2011, 01:49 PM

Or you can just go to autozone or the likes and borrow a puller (u shaped with a bolt in the center). I beat the s#&@ out of my lower and it would not budge. Luckily I was replacing it because it would not have been reusable. Went and borrowed the puller from autozone and it took less than 3 minutes. When it "popped" it was like a firecracker went off...as a matter of fact I thought the tool had broke or something. It was in there good!:yesy:

pbkid

01/05/2011, 02:53 PM

ok I hate to be that guy because I loved my vx to the moon and back but this thread really makes me happy to have a toyota. Parts galore. I just tore one of my ball joint boots replacing my front end. $20 out of a junkyard.

Ebenezr

01/05/2011, 07:24 PM

Thanks. I will try that method. I have been removing the 4 lower ball joint bolts in its bracket then flip the whole assembly upward to remove cv's. I stripped a bolt when reattaching last week.

tom4bren

01/06/2011, 07:28 AM

The threaded shaft on the ball joint is fairly soft material. I booger'd mine slightly when I was trying to get mine to release. It was still useable though.

When I was working on CSTYLES later on, we completely destroyed his. Luckly he was able to locate a replacement Center Link. He later took it over to a buddy of his just to see what it would take to get it apart. After torching it & pounding on it with a 3lbs mallet ... still wouldn't budge. By this time, the shaft had been cut off flush with the flange. They were finally able to press it out with a large press.

The bottom line is that it's a poor design for maintenance. The shaft is actually conical ... that part's normal. But the angle on the cone is too shallow ... that's the design flaw. I saw this before on a bracket we were making to mount a Thermal Imager on the MK-19. If that angle is too shallow, it only takes a small amount of force to get it wedged in there permanent like.

After saying all that, I really only have 3 points to make:

1. Do NOT use a ball joint fork. That tool will only work when you really don't need it anyway (could've gotten it apart by other means). It WILL destroy the boot which is hard to replace. Isuzu only sells them as part of the center link.

2. If you are trying to break the ball joints, remove the cotter pin and the castle nut, then put the castle nut back on upside down & thread it on until the shaft is even with the base of the castle nut. This will protect the threads and the cotter pin hole. It will also give you a larger area for pressing/pounding.

3. If/when you get it apart, apply some anti-sieze to the shaft during reassembly. You can pick it up at hardware stores or at Radio Shack. It'll keep you from fighting that battle again if you need to break that ball joint again. If you can't find anti-sieze, lemme know. I've got a big bottle (6 lifetime supplies) at home & will happily send you a small amount.

Tom

Mile High VX

01/07/2011, 06:43 PM

Changed the oil, filter, and PCV valve. Lube the window tracks and top off all the fluids.

Got my blanks from Marlin and filled in the open space on the three switch bezel that houses my fog/driving light switch

Gave her a quick wash and replaced my 3.5L emblem that was wearing thin...:bwgy::smilewink:bgwo::bgwb:

Over the weekend I'll be working on adding a rear dome light to the VX...can't wait...more wiring!

VX KAT

01/07/2011, 06:49 PM

Changed the oil, filter, and PCV valve.

What brand of PCV valve are you using these days?

What other brands are you all using?

Don't have much confidence in Purolator 1061 any more since they changed the design, just a feeling, can't prove anything.

Mile High VX

01/07/2011, 07:06 PM

What brand of PCV valve are you using these days?

What other brands are you all using?

Don't have much confidence in Purolator 1061 any more since they changed the design, just a feeling, can't prove anything.

It's a Microguard brand. Part number is 384. I pick it up when I buy the Wix filter at my local O'Reilley's auto parts store. It's my second one and the one I pulled today rattled and sounded just the new one I put in. It's plastic and the base is blue and the upper portion is black/dark brown...hope that helps. I don't use any oil so I'm calling it good to use.

VX KAT

01/07/2011, 08:06 PM

It's a Microguard brand. Part number is 384. I pick it up when I buy the Wix filter at my local O'Reilley's auto parts store. It's my second one and the one I pulled today rattled and sounded just the new one I put in. It's plastic and the base is blue and the upper portion is black/dark brown...hope that helps. I don't use any oil so I'm calling it good to use.

The old Purolator PV1061 looked like this:
http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/1/1/540618-pcv-valve-by-purolator-part-pv1061.html

The revised Purolator is now blue/brown. This is a "Fram", but it looks just like the Purolator and it says it fits the VX...probably sourced from the same supplier/manufacturer.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Fram-FV384-PCV-Valve-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQfitsZMakeQ3aIsuzuQQhashZitem3f0 64962a9QQitemZ270688412329QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruc kQ5fPartsQ5fAccessories#ht_1475wt_931

Interesting....on the Purolator site, they ONLY show the older black style...wonder if they've gone back to it? :_thinking

I think I'll try a Microguard....my Purolators don't sound the same as new when I remove them. But I only use some oil when on prolonged/high rev highway driving 8+ hrs.

Triathlete

01/07/2011, 09:21 PM

I've replaced my pvc valve once in 80,000+ miles and still burn zero oil! :bwgy:
Maybe I'll splurge and replace it again...

...at 200,000!:rotate:

vt_maverick

01/08/2011, 07:00 AM

I've replaced my pvc valve once in 80,000+ miles and still burn zero oil! :bwgy:
Maybe I'll splurge and replace it again...

...at 200,000!:rotate:

+1, not as many miles though. Bought it at 24K and haven't replaced the PVC valve yet at 65K+ (unless the garage did it at one of the factory maintenance intervals). There's a lot to read on here about replacing it, but from my experience I just don't see what the big deal is. :confused:

Mile High VX

01/08/2011, 07:07 AM

+1, not as many miles though. Bought it at 24K and haven't replaced the PVC valve yet at 65K+ (unless the garage did it at one of the factory maintenance intervals). There's a lot to read on here about replacing it, but from my experience I just don't see what the big deal is. :confused:

This is my second one (hey second oil change for me) and I did it just from reading the post.

I'll not be replacing it with every oil change unless something happens to change my mind...like starting to use some oil.

VX KAT

01/08/2011, 08:23 AM

I'd read so many folks found that it had stuck open and allowed oil to be sucked out. It is intimidating when you remove the old one and it doesn't rattle much or at all...they say that means it's not functioning correctly. I guess I just look at it as cheap insurance. But then again, I wasn't using any oil when I removed malfunctioning ones....:confused: so maybe it's a hit or miss thing?

vt_maverick

01/08/2011, 06:22 PM

Doesn't a faulty PCV throw a CEL or engine code? Is leaking oil the only sign you'd ever get that your PCV had gone bad?

Mile High VX

01/08/2011, 08:38 PM

added to the cargo area of the VX...:bwgy::smilewink:bgwo::bgwb:

Just a little trimming to do tomorrow to make it square with the front one.

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN03281.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0327.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0326.JPG

Marlin

01/09/2011, 05:58 AM

Hey, that came out pretty good! What are you gonna do with the smaller light?

johnnyapollo

01/09/2011, 06:39 AM

Just got my center console arm rest re-covered and installed - images up in anohter post later today.

-- John

Mile High VX

01/09/2011, 09:26 AM

Hey, that came out pretty good! What are you gonna do with the smaller light?

Thought about making a underhood light from it but not sure it can stand the heat.

Any thoughts?

vt_maverick

01/09/2011, 08:59 PM

Nothing as adventurous as you guys, just changed the oil/filter in both the VX and Axiom. AutoZone was running a special on Pennzoil Platinum + K&N filters for $30, so I decided to try that combo out. Read a few reviews that said PP was better than Amsoil or Mobil 1 so I guess we'll see, as always consumption is my measuring stick.

:luck:

vt_maverick

01/25/2011, 08:27 AM

Installed LED fog lights last night, super easy, took about 20 minutes tops (mostly due to washing the grease off my hands before handling the LEDs). Also installed the new JAMAS rear door cargo box. :naughty: Will post pics this weekend after I make a few minor modifications...

mindaugas

02/05/2011, 06:36 PM

seafoamed, Mobil1 oil change, cleaned k&n filter, replaced pcv, cleaned headlights with 3m restore kit, replaced EGR gasket, cleaned EGR.

Ebenezr

02/06/2011, 04:52 AM

Replacing an out of balance driveshaft.

don moore

02/07/2011, 08:33 AM

just had my exaust .fixed.. the flang next to the pass/ manafold broke off .....had to be removes and re welded...they did a triple weld ...heard the problem was a design flaw.....it took a day .but im happy again..:work:

vt_maverick

02/07/2011, 01:35 PM

Finally got warm enough Sunday to do a proper hand wash. I didn't get a chance to do wax and tire black, but since I'm traveling all week I should be able to pull her back out of the garage Saturday to finish up. Contemplating doing another coat of TS-1 too since the snow/ice/salt eroded it a little faster than normal. I can't remember how long it's been since I applied it last, I'll have to check my post history to see if it lasted 2-3 months as advertised.

Mile High VX

02/10/2011, 09:51 AM

Lost my belt coming home from the airport last night. The blessing is that I was three blocks from home and it was 5 degrees, so no worries. Forgot how much fun oversize tires and rims can be with no power steering...ha!

Here is what the pulley looked like when I pulled it out.

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0345.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0346.JPG

The smaller piece is supposed to be inside the large piece and it rotates on ball bearings...those all used to be round like the few that are left.

$50 for a pulley and a belt and we're back on the road.

Mile High VX

02/12/2011, 02:42 PM

Installed and working...WooHoo.

Waiting on a OEM release button so using the supplied one for now. Working on hooking up to my compuSTAR alarm so it will work remotely.

I posted pics over in the Tips section.

MSHardeman

02/12/2011, 05:02 PM

Flip-flopped my seats. I figure if it took 100K miles for the first one to start showing signs of wear, then I should be good to go for a while with the "new" one.

No more tilt/slide on the passenger side, but I try not to put anyone in my back seat anyhow.

vt_maverick

02/13/2011, 06:09 PM

Pretty big weekend... replaced the fog lamps, "triangle" fender markers, and rear quarter panel markers with LEDs and put in a pair of Daystar coil spacers (and cranked the t-bars accordingly) for about a 1-1.5" lift. Couldn't have done it without help from Billy (yellowgizmo99) - and by "help" I mean "allowed me to hold the tools and grab lunch for him while he did almost everything." :o As he said though, there's value to trying something out on someone else's vehicle first. :p

I also put on my second application of TS-1 / Armordillo. The last time I applied it was mid-November, and that was really just a touch-up of my first application back in October. The cladding definitely needed to be done, but it was nowhere even close to what you'd expect for a daily-driver that hadn't been touched (other than automatic car washes between snows) for three months. Put on a nice thick coat of TS-1 this afternoon and it looks great, hopefully won't have to touch it until May!

Thanks again Billy!!! :D :thumbup:

vt_maverick

02/13/2011, 06:17 PM

Btw if you were wondering what the big deal was about installing a few LED bulbs, it was much more than that. Following my escapade of burning out fog light LEDs every few hours, I ordered what Autoillumination terms "LED protectors" this time around. (They're basically just resistors that you attach to the ground wire coming from each socket.) Rather than using the simple snap-together connectors, Billy insisted that we "do it right" and solder and heat-shrink wrap the connections instead. So that's two connections per bulb that have to be soldered, which adds up to a much longer installation process.

yellowgizmo99

02/19/2011, 03:00 PM

after doing Ashley's lift last weekend decided to do mine also, not bad for $40, still tring to work out the winch mount.

Mile High VX

03/02/2011, 12:59 PM

Installing the OEM Tailgate switch for my rear door popper and dong the rear door cover dowels (just as a preventative measure).

jmayer40

03/04/2011, 02:49 AM

Installed RS9000XL's, Treadwright 245/75/16 Warden's. Next frontend bearings and rotors.

WormGod

03/04/2011, 07:22 AM

Hunting for wounds that are leaking goblin blood. Recently been finding very small wet spots under the VX after driving it and letting it sit. They started to get a little larger and then notices the other night that when I opened the radiator, I could not see fluid at all now. Doesn't leak when it's been sitting for a while. Must only be leaking out at operating temps and stops when cool. First glance, seen nothing in the engine bay, only beneath. Let the hunt begin!

VXorado

03/13/2011, 04:07 PM

I'm finally finishing a ton of IFS/brake work this week. I added a 2" diff drop, brand new aftermarket CVs (inner&out), repacked the bearings, replaced the brake rotors & pads, painted the brake calipers, installed low profile front bump stops, installed new ball joints & replaced the ABS module. My VX has been in the garage for about two weeks, can't wait to get her on the road again!

Scott Larson

03/13/2011, 05:39 PM

God bless all my VX brothers and sisters slavin' away over their VX's whilst mine sits languishing in the garage 'cuz [I]IT'S TOO DAMN COLD TO WORK ON IT NOW!!! [I
Can't wait 'till things warm up a bit, or I get a heated garage...

mindaugas

03/13/2011, 06:30 PM

Put in a new stereo, cheap Pioneer DEH-1300 ($70 at BB) with aux stereo in. Install was really easy, harness and antenna extender were at Car Toys. All said and done, $116 for the stereo and parts, including crimps and a crimper.

VXjunky

03/13/2011, 08:20 PM

was watching "million dollar listing"....a mansion in hidden hills ca. had their doghouse modeled after the mansion (kids playhouse too)....both had heating and air....boy i wanna get off the potty in the morning and discover ive started pooping $100's!!!!!!!!!!!!

vt_maverick

03/14/2011, 09:13 AM

Does it count that I worked on someone else's VX this weekend? Well not exactly, I just worked on something for their VX. Either way it's more on topic than the above... :laughy:

Made a custom set of rail caps for Mile High to cover the unsightly cross bar mounts. Dremel's are awesome but it still takes forever - measure, mark, cut, test fit, recut, test fit, trim, test fit, paint, paint again, clean with 303... at least 8 hours total.

VXjunky

03/14/2011, 09:20 AM

sorry Mav....i tied my scattered thought into Scotts..about his non heated garage...but you knew that????????............a scattered thinking child of the sixties..john................. multi tasking the sixties way...for better or worse

vt_maverick

03/14/2011, 10:02 AM

I figured but it did take me three or four re-reads to come to that conclusion. Just joshin' you a bit. ;)

VX KAT

03/14/2011, 10:56 AM

~ Compounded then waxed all the paint with an orbital buffer.
~ Applied 2 coats of wax under magnetic bra
~ Trimmed leading edge of top vinyl layer of the magnetic bra- fits better under the edging material now
~ Applied 3rd coat of Showroom New to cladding- WAHOO!!
~ Touched up all crevices, jams, sills, and cladding screws with Showroom New
~ Sanded down flat part of front grill to get rid of the Restore/Refinish that couldn't be blasted off. Spray painted it matte black.
~ Polished both headlights to a sparkling clear (thanks Mike!)
~ Too chicken to apply the stick on headlight covers :goof:
~ Dave finished the ceiling hoist pulley system in garage
~ Tire pressure set to 40 psi x4
~ Had shop adjust hatch popper again (it gets jiggled loose again, takes 2-3 pushes to engage properly - shop advised against me putting loc-tite on it)
~ Replaced driver's inside door grab handle
~ Installed Trooper folding cup holder on back of center console (actually a few weeks ago)

vt_maverick

03/14/2011, 11:04 AM

Tell the truth Sue, you're just hoping I'll install the stick-on covers first. ;)

rowhard plates go on next weekend I assume?

VX KAT

03/14/2011, 11:25 AM

Tell the truth Sue, you're just hoping I'll install the stick-on covers first. ;)

rowhard plates go on next weekend I assume?

Absolutely right Ashley, can't wait to see yours on....first!

John said he's shipping my plates back today. :thumbup:

Ebenezr

03/14/2011, 12:01 PM

If I ever buy another VX I think I will make an offer on VX KAT's. you put so much effort into keeping it up. :)

VXjunky

03/14/2011, 02:03 PM

Sue is definitely fighting "Father Time" tooth and nail

VX KAT

03/14/2011, 03:54 PM

If I ever buy another VX I think I will make an offer on VX KAT's. you put so much effort into keeping it up. :)
:mbrasd: :thanx:
.....and Jack (pbkid) has first dibs ;)

03/14/2011, 04:06 PM

~ Applied 2 coats of wax under magnetic bra

Wow Sue - your rack must look nice and shiny now!!!!:p;):smilewink:bgwo:

Yeah - I'm back from holidays.

Sorry - here let me do it for you.:slap::slap::slap:

PK

VX KAT

03/14/2011, 04:55 PM

Wow Sue - your rack must look nice and shiny now!!!!:p;):smilewink:bgwo:

Yeah - I'm back from holidays.

Sorry - here let me do it for you.:slap::slap::slap:

PK

http://www.pic4ever.com/images/25r30wi.gif
Gawd, I've missed you PK! ;)

Ldub

03/14/2011, 05:08 PM

Wow Sue - your rack must look nice and shiny now!!!!:p;):smilewink:bgwo:

Yeah - I'm back from holidays.

Sorry - here let me do it for you.:slap::slap::slap:

PK

:laughing:.:laughing:.:thumbup:

Nice work Suzee...:yesgray:

Good talk'n witcha...:bla:.:yes:

I mean that in the NICEST of all possible ways...:yesgray:

Triathlete

03/14/2011, 05:11 PM

So, Sue...when can I drop my VX off?:bwgy:

pbkid

03/14/2011, 06:24 PM

~ Too chicken to apply the stick on headlight covers :goof:

if you wanna bring em to moab, im sure you can find some help ;)

.....and Jack (pbkid) has first dibs ;)

ya buddy!!!

:thumbup:

Ebenezr

03/15/2011, 06:31 AM

This weekend I think I will remove my engine, trans, and axles and then have my VX compressed and compacted down into a little 2' by 3' square. I will place a glass top on it and put it in my living room next to the couch as an end table.

VXjunky

03/15/2011, 07:57 AM

then have kat restore it

Scott Larson

03/15/2011, 10:13 AM

And don't forget to turn the engine into a coffee table...

Ebenezr

03/15/2011, 11:32 AM

And don't forget to turn the engine into a coffee table...

I would prefer a 6 flavor coffee maker. :grino:

Mile High VX

03/18/2011, 07:14 AM

Bought a roof rack some time back without the "clamps", but since I have another rack mounted to my Thule 696 (as seen in the background) I didn't need them.

VT Maverick customized some rail caps for me (GREAT job sir!) and I mounted it all up today.

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0403.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0402.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0401.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0400.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0399.JPG

Looks great and I don't mind leaving it on now.

vt_maverick

03/18/2011, 07:17 AM

jmayer40

03/18/2011, 07:18 AM

I wired the Oscillation Overthruster to the Flux Capacitor, reversed the Inertial Dampers and have restored connectivity.

vt_maverick

03/18/2011, 07:39 AM

Pic with stickers removed for comparison. Sorry my pic is from so far away, I couldn't find anything else in my gallery that was closer up.

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3265/IMG00002-20100525-0732.jpg

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0403.JPG

Mile High VX

03/18/2011, 07:40 AM

Thanks for the compliments Earl, hopefully with another coat of 303 they'll darken up even more. Now it's time for you to remove the max load sticker from the brackets and they'll look REALLY good. :)

Hey, that's a better idea than covering them with black electrical tape...which is how I got rid of the blinking clock on my VCR (yeah, showing my age)...:bwgy::smilewink:bgwo::bgwb:

VXjunky

03/18/2011, 08:05 AM

anyone know where i can get a craig-bluelight, 4 track tapedeck

vt_maverick

03/18/2011, 08:22 AM

Hey, that's a better idea than covering them with black electrical tape...which is how I got rid of the blinking clock on my VCR (yeah, showing my age)...:bwgy::smilewink:bgwo::bgwb:

FYI they can be pretty difficult to remove. I think I had to soak them in warm water and dish soap 3x, then follow-up with GooGone to get rid of all of it. Others had an easier time though.

vt_maverick

03/18/2011, 08:23 AM

anyone know where i can get a craig-bluelight, 4 track tapedeck

In a separate WTB thread? ;)

VX KAT

03/18/2011, 09:08 AM

Thanks for the compliments Earl, hopefully with another coat of 303 they'll darken up even more. Now it's time for you to remove the max load sticker from the brackets and they'll look REALLY good. :)

Mine have a little desert dust, but here's a close up. Mine aren't quite seated correctly in these shots, but we'll be removing the Yakima basket now that our pulley system is done. Then I can adjust & dremel them a little.
Does take a lot of Goo Gone and some patience.

I'll bet the Showroom New would work on this plastic...could make the rails nice and dark....hmmmm......

vt_maverick

03/18/2011, 10:24 AM

An FYI for anyone thinking of doing this on their own...

The roof rack "feet" tend to walk a bit (maybe 1-2 mm) when the truck's in motion even if you have the screws tightened all the way down. What that means for this mod is that caps with tightly fitting openings will sometimes pop a tab loose while you're in motion. Unfortunately I didn't realize this when I made mine and Sue's, so we've had to Dremel them down a bit further. You can see in Mile High's pics that I made the opening about 1/4" wider on each side to allow for that play.

vt_maverick

03/18/2011, 10:29 AM

I'll bet the Showroom New would work on this plastic...could make the rails nice and dark....hmmmm......

Wouldn't hurt to give it a go but I'm pretty sure the rails and covers are just painted yellow plastic, so you'd essentially be trying to dye paint. I would try to find a used set before dying it. (Plus I hear your custom cap manufacturer will void your warranty if you dye the plastic. :p)

MeowMix

03/19/2011, 05:21 PM

YAY!!! My Alpine KCA-410c Versatile Link Terminal came in the mail today! That means I can install my Alpine CDA-9855 headunit with the KCA-100BT bluetooth module AND I can additionally hook up an aux for my iPod and my Droid! Plus, I have one more Ai-net and a second aux, in case I want sat radio or something later...there is much to do with her sound system, but by the time I'm done with her, the sound of baby proton will elicit feelings of pure bliss :heart:

...so this is my plan for the weekend! Anybody need an OEM headunit? Lol...I'll probably put it up here for sale once I dig it out of my dash. :winky:

Triathlete

03/19/2011, 07:13 PM

Now you just need to set that alpines gps to "Moab" and follow it in 8 weeks! ;)

MeowMix

03/20/2011, 11:40 PM

And in true cocky 12V installer fashion, I hooked everything up without paying a bit of mind to the wiring diagram (it's so obvious...who needs instructions, right?), ran all the Ai-net lines, the mic and the remote for the bluetooth module, etc...clicked everything in and went to test: no sound via the speakers from the bluetooth module when in-call. So I checked my head unit settings and connections again...nothing still. So finally I checked the manual, and I see that I need an Alpine PXA-H701 "Multimedia Manager" to get audio thru my speakers. WTF really? So I left my bluetooth module installed for later, though I chose aux as my one Ai-net input. You win again, Alpine...

/end rant

...I feel so defeated. :sady:

And triathlete, I'm surely going to try my darndest to get to Moab and say hello to everyone! All depends on school. I probably won't take my baby offroad though...too scared to get a scratch. :righty:

VX KAT

03/21/2011, 08:45 AM

Hey, ya finally got yer user name changed! Excellent!!

Gussie2000

03/21/2011, 10:39 AM

Yesterday was a perfect day to give some love to my toy.
After months i cleaned VX in & out.

I also change the oil and filter.My aftermarket air filter was dirty so i get it washed and is cleaned as new.

I went to the bronx to visit few friennd,but didn't wanna miss the chance and drove by one of our new fellow members, eddie ( nycpdnarco69 ) who just bought the black S/C'd ebony from richard payne in colorado nice looking rig for sure

In cue are few stuff to get done,my driver's side CV boot is busted so needs replacement ,the rim on that same side suffered an small dent on saturday afternoon by avoiding an crash thanks to an idiot swinging into my lane without notice and forcing me to fall hard and fast in one of the hundred and hundred of pot holes that became an pandemic issue in this city. ( thank you Mr. mike bloomberg )

Bob Barker

03/23/2011, 09:56 PM

I've got a 4 day weekend starting tomorrow morning and I want to try and get the differential drop done, completely... Is it doable? I dunno.

Any tips for a novice parts exchanger? I've printed the PDF file on the site here out linning the steps and is a big help, but for those that have done it, was that good enough or were there any steps or tips left out?
Also, what did you guys use to cut out the brackets? I don't want to mess up and remove too much material and not be able to weld them back together!

Mile High VX

03/24/2011, 12:58 PM

Bought a MagnaBra and got that on. Was easy following the directions and using the recomended heat application!

shinkson

03/24/2011, 05:59 PM

sent my supercharger in for a rebuild.

RabidPony

03/24/2011, 09:02 PM

Spent the afternoon freezing my rump off while I hunted down a leak in the back of the VX that was keeping my carpet wet. Thought it was from the CB antenna mount but turns out it was from the radio antenna. Was coming in, running along the roof to the trim, then dripping out of that piece of trim in the top center that has the slits in it. All fixed now. Cleaned it up and used black RTV to do a makeshift patch job on the cracked antenna gasket. Looks good and is working well thus far, had some hard rains today but not a drip. Now just to get that damn carpet dry.

rsteinmetz70112

03/24/2011, 09:51 PM

the CB antenna mount

Anyone still uses CB? That is so 70's

VX KAT

03/24/2011, 09:56 PM

the CB antenna mount

Anyone still uses CB? That is so 70's
Do you do any off-roading? We all use CBs there.:thumbup:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3260/DSC_2360.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3260/DSC_2247.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3260/DSC_2437.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3260/DSC_2398.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3260/DSC_2375.JPG

Grif

03/24/2011, 10:12 PM

I prefer mobile 2 meter radio, but CB is fine. One of these days gonna get my Kenwood TS-480 installed and run mobile all-band tranciever, but must choose my hobbies carfeully.

rsteinmetz70112

03/24/2011, 11:53 PM

I don't do off roading.

Back in the day I had a TR7 with a 6 ft CB antenna and a Volvo 265 with a CB.

I thought most people had moved to FRS or GMRS services.

VX KAT

03/25/2011, 07:50 AM

I don't do off roading.

Back in the day I had a TR7 with a 6 ft CB antenna and a Volvo 265 with a CB.

I thought most people had moved to FRS or GMRS services.
When I started off roading, I wondered why they weren't using FRS too. I have a nice pair of them. I think somebody gave me a good reason...I just can't recall it right now....:goof: Is it cuz they like having it on the highway while driving to/from Moab?

tom4bren

03/25/2011, 08:02 AM

No, it's because you can get pink CB antennas.

VX KAT

03/25/2011, 08:07 AM

No, it's because you can get pink CB antennas.

:mbrasd: Busted!

Triathlete

03/25/2011, 11:26 AM

Cb has a longer range for transmission (if properly tuned) than fsr. If you break on the trail this could be important...of course if you get reception there is also cell phones for emergency.

Mile High VX

03/27/2011, 10:55 AM

Pics of my magnabra and my reinstalled rock sliders. I went with a textured Dark Peweter on the sliders instead of Black. I really like the way they turned out.

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN04131.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0412.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN04141.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0411.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0410.JPG

VXjunky

03/27/2011, 11:20 AM

your rigs looking SHARP............i never noticed your fender mirror before...what kinda benefits ya notice it giving you....

Mile High VX

03/27/2011, 11:44 AM

your rigs looking SHARP............i never noticed your fender mirror before...what kinda benefits ya notice it giving you....

No benefits on the US model...just looks sharp IMHO.

I can get you one if you're interested...but it's pricey.

VXjunky

03/27/2011, 12:13 PM

i love it...but on your truck

Junster

04/04/2011, 06:51 PM

Oh man those pics with so many VX all in the same pics made me smile. What I did to mine was install a tow hitch receiver, buy new brighter headlight bulbs, brass battery clamps, a trick aluminum billet towing stinger, ordered window visors from that weather tech place and ordered showroom new from Kat's link.

Mile High VX

04/08/2011, 08:00 PM

Rancho 9000XLs installed and added some cut down rear bump stops.

Ride is much more to my liking for what I do on a daily basis.

VX KAT

04/08/2011, 08:27 PM

Rancho 9000XLs installed and added some cut down rear bump stops.

Ride is much more to my liking for what I do on a daily basis.

toldya!:bgwo:

MeowMix

04/08/2011, 09:32 PM

Finally got that window regulator installed today...I can roll down my driver's side window now, yay! Baby VX is almost all fixed up ;Dy;

VXjunky

04/08/2011, 09:56 PM

oh sure Meow...love us then leave us

MeowMix

04/08/2011, 10:21 PM

oh sure Meow...love us then leave us

:sady:

...but I had two anatomy & physiology exams, an organic chemistry exam, an A&P quiz, and two O chem quizzes in the last couple weeks. That's in addition to the usual homework, papers, journal entries, and there are a couple presentations I'm working on too. I didn't leave...it's just coming down to the last few weeks of spring term and things are busy busy! Without amazing grades, I won't make it into the best nursing school in the state; I'm scared of anything less than a 3.5GPA :eek:

Excuses, excuses...I know, lol. :righty:

VX KAT

04/08/2011, 11:23 PM

Finally got that window regulator installed today...I can roll down my driver's side window now, yay! Baby VX is almost all fixed up ;Dy;

You know about the SBC brackets for the windows? They almost always fix the window problems. If you just replaced a regulator, I'm guessing you have the typical window problems.

MeowMix

04/09/2011, 12:06 AM

You know about the SBC brackets for the windows? They almost always fix the window problems. If you just replaced a regulator, I'm guessing you have the typical window problems.

Indeed I do not know of such things...though I'll have to do a forum search and educate myself, because I don't feel like going through that whole process again later. Replacing that regulator wasn't awful, but it was kind of a pain in my butt; and the kicker is: the passenger side one is on it's way out too. The window doesn't quite bind up and get stuck in the open position like the driver side did, though it won't stay on it's track, and it likes to try to eat the rubber moulding on the B pillar when you roll it back up from the full down position ;py;

...thanks for the tip Sue! ;Dy;

vt_maverick

04/09/2011, 05:19 PM

I'll throw on one more tip, the SBC brackets don't always fix the problem by themselves, you may need to also lube and straighten the tracks while you're there.

VX KAT

04/09/2011, 05:39 PM

I'll throw on one more tip, the SBC brackets don't always fix the problem by themselves, you may need to also lube and straighten the tracks while you're there.

Yup, that's why I said "almost".

Meowmix- Here's a large list of threads pertaining to the window problems, with fixes and all kinds of good ideas. I've widened my forward metal tracks, got the SBC brackets, and lubricate the rubber tracks with silicone spray at least quarterly....keeps them working perfect. Some have found they need to change the angle of the glass a bit such that the upper part tilts inward more, bottom tilts outward more. Some have done this by installing a stack of metal washers at the base, to serve as a spacers to keep the bottom of the glass angled as described. The jumping out of the track etc has often caused the rubber track to get eaten, so once you get the 1st fixed, you can replace the rubber track.
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=14739&highlight=window+binding
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=16083&highlight=window+binding+fix
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=8043&highlight=widen+track+window
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=11541&highlight=window+binding
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=93758&postcount=4
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=5604&highlight=window+binding+fix
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?threadid=10278
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=66217&postcount=26
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=66280&postcount=27
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=73547&postcount=31
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=100318&postcount=38
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=4374&highlight=window+binding+track
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=5845&highlight=window+track
http://www.antiquecaterpillar.org/vx/Technical/Window.asp
http://www.antiquecaterpillar.org/vx/Technical/Window_Bert.asp

RickOKC

04/10/2011, 05:06 PM

Yesterday I painted the hood insert using samneil2000's awesome guide (http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=17352). The faded insert's color was a few shades lighter than any other trim pieces and was uneven, mottled and filled with tiny black specs. I tried to take photos of it before I started, but what looked so bad in person came out as nothing more than a gray blob. Due to Sam's post, I didn't use a 3M pad to scuff the insert. Instead, I wet sanded with 800 grit.

I've never been happy with my attempts at painting, but for once I can say I did a good job with the prep. I had some dry spots during painting that make it look a little uneven as the light hits it from an angle. I'll give it some time and then go over it with polish & wax. In one of my first posts, I wondered if it would be possible to wrap the insert in the same vinyl that's used for putting stripes on cars. I think it's funny that it looks exactly like that. It's definitely black, but maybe it won't look "too dark" once I wash off that heavy layer of gravel dust and treat the cladding. The color seems to perfectly match the washer nozzles and the smooth black plastic of the grille. All that may sound bad (I'm very critical of my own work), but I think with a little more effort the end result will make me very happy.

I'll take some photos once I give it a good wash & dress up. :)

While I was in the neighborhood, I also repainted my wiper arms. This time my prep work sucked. :( Oh well, at least they are both solid black again instead of a mix of paint & bare metal. They look much better (from a distance) but I'll be starting over and trying again soon.

VX KAT

04/16/2011, 10:58 PM

Polished my headlights again. They looked great, but still had some fine swirls I could see in a certain light and angle.....and I wanted them to be gleaming!

Had used the 3M headlight restoration kit, then lots of 3M rubbing compound, 3M Plast-X, and Meguiar's Scratch-X. But still had some faint swirls.

Found a 3M Professional Formula "Plastic Polish" at an auto paint store. Around $10-$12.
Instructions only listed applying by hand, so I did that a few times. Could see nice crisp improvement.

Then used it with a polishing pad on my drill 3 or 4 times, then applied PLEXUS.
:freek: Almost all the swirls are gone, and they're now freakin' gleaming like diamonds! :freek:

This stuff is the perfect final product for doing this! OK Ashley, I'm ready to apply my stongard covers.....might even give it a go tomorrow....

This is what my bottle looks like, but I think it's been changed since the 2nd and 3rd pic have the same SKU#39010
http://www.adamsonindustries.com/product_images/d/791/3m_polish__42898_zoom.jpg

http://images.oreillyauto.com/parts/img/large/mmm/39010.jpg
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/MMM0/39010.oap?partType=N0468&parentPartType=C0209

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41fKqArq3tL._SS500_.jpg
http://www.amazon.com/3M-Plastic-Polish-39010-Bottle/dp/B0002U268M

VX KAT

04/16/2011, 11:44 PM

Got my 3 button panel installed this week. I like the nice clean look to it.
Had to relocate my CB mic a little.
Also had to find a new spot for my purple VX....I velcro'd him to the dash. Nothin' says class like velcro on the dash!
I've also got to get rid of some serious desert dust.
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF3980.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF3985.JPG

rowhard

04/17/2011, 09:07 AM

Well, I washed and drove it yesterday.

On a note of the Gatorback product. Have been interested, but not wanting to spend that kind of money on something else to try.Well, My new Kia optima has the splash guards in black plastic that I know will fade so I ordered one rattle can of the stuff to try out. Spend 20 bucks instead of 200 to check it out.

vt_maverick

04/17/2011, 10:56 AM

VX KAT

04/17/2011, 11:57 AM

Sue - The guys on my old sports car board highly recommended the 3M Plastic Polish, but there's also a pre-treater called 3M Plastic Cleaner that they recommend you use first. Did you skip that step or was it not needed because of the 3M kit you already used? I think I'm going to call the headlight repair guy I met a few weeks ago and ask him what he does. 3M advertises the above product as their professional solution, so maybe he uses the same.
They did have that too, but the guy came out and looked at my lenses, and because I'd used the 3M kit and rubbing/plas-X/Scratch-X and PLEXUS (which cleans) so recently, he didn't think there'd be any benefit to using the cleaner first.
I was really surprised how well it worked just by hand.....MY wimpy hands.

I'm going to look for "professional" products now, when applicable.

v8vehiboss

04/17/2011, 02:18 PM

im dropping a 2000 dodge 318, nv3500(5 speed) and half ton dodge axles and giving it a 3 to 4 inch lift at the same time. coming along ok so far

vt_maverick

04/17/2011, 02:24 PM

They did have that too, but the guy came out and looked at my lenses, and because I'd used the 3M kit and rubbing/plas-X/Scratch-X and PLEXUS (which cleans) so recently, he didn't think there'd be any benefit to using the cleaner first.
I was really surprised how well it worked just by hand.....MY wimpy hands.

I'm going to look for "professional" products now, when applicable.

I should have mentioned this before, but this product wears off pretty quickly. I think I had to reapply it at least every 6 months or the yellow/haze would come right back. I did NOT sand them however, so hopefully that will make a difference for you.

Mile High VX

04/17/2011, 02:27 PM

im dropping a 2000 dodge 318, nv3500(5 speed) and half ton dodge axles and giving it a 3 to 4 inch lift at the same time. coming along ok so far

Please start a thread on your build under the VX Modifications section under the Build thread.

Sounds awesome!

VXjunky

04/17/2011, 05:20 PM

more pink vx...damn you chip foose

VX KAT

04/17/2011, 06:09 PM

more pink vx...damn you chip foose
:confused:

Bob Barker

04/18/2011, 08:04 PM

im dropping a 2000 dodge 318, nv3500(5 speed) and half ton dodge axles and giving it a 3 to 4 inch lift at the same time. coming along ok so far

Yeah everyone here would be VERY interested in you getting this finished. There are/were a few drive line swaps that sorta ended "in progress". Last one I heard of the guy got a little mad that everyone was dissin' his builder!

Bob Barker

04/24/2011, 06:24 PM

So I took a razor blade to the VX tonight on a whild hair and peeled off all the badges on both sides and the back door. I think on an Ebony it looks 1000x's better. I'm still debatind painting the stock wheels black, or getting an aftermarket wheel that is black. Wife says painting my wheels black would look dumb, but she doesn't want me to spend money on new black wheels... and then says that black wheels would look good on the truck! I don't understand her.

I also moved the cross overs from the door speakers to inside the door frames so the handle would sit in it's spot correctly. Don't know why I waited so long to do that... laziness probably! Tomorro when it's daylight again I'm gonna use a little rubbing compound on the areas where the badges were to remove/blend the outlines.

RamAirZ

04/24/2011, 07:13 PM

I'm a fan of badgeless as well. I have some black wheels I could sell ya :)

Bob Barker

04/24/2011, 07:20 PM

Details :D

Junster

04/25/2011, 04:54 PM

Here's what mine looks like with blacked out stock 16's.
1428

etlsport

04/25/2011, 05:50 PM

got my V-LED Spider Lights installed. They are super super super bright and fill out the assembly wonderfully. They have 54 rear facing LEDs and 40 side facing.

the spider effect is sort of played down because of all the side facing leds, but it stands out a little better when you hit the brakes. all in all im happy though

Realized my license plate lights were out, but like so many others the screws holding them in were... screwed. but the assembly it self is in great shape. I mounted LED strips in there and adapted the LEDs to plug into the factory light sockets. turned out nice too... $15 mod

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/medium/220867_799765346776_10501646_39704910_3473749_o.jp g (http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=20639)

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/medium/200835_799765301866_10501646_39704909_3166670_o.jp g (http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=20638)

Bob Barker

04/25/2011, 06:51 PM

Here's what mine looks like with blacked out stock 16's.
1428

I saw that in your thread about getting your truck back from the body shop and that's what got me thinking about doing mine black. I actually showed the pic to my wife and said those were black painted from the factory, she believed me and said when the factory did them they look nice, but when someone paints them at home they look trash...

I guess I win this round!:smilewink

Gussie2000

04/26/2011, 03:25 PM

[quote=Bob Barker;227399] Wife says painting my wheels black would look dumb, but she doesn't want me to spend money on new black wheels... and then says that black wheels would look good on the truck! I don't understand her.

Don't worry man,you aren't alone :p

RamAirZ

04/26/2011, 07:34 PM

That's funny john. So I take it your gonna paint yours now :)

jmayer40

04/27/2011, 04:12 AM

Powder coat them ... Looks pro then!!!

Bob Barker

04/27/2011, 04:13 AM

Probably not. I'm not too good at paint. Still weighing some options, including yours!

vt_maverick

05/02/2011, 08:51 AM

Junster

05/02/2011, 01:59 PM

Key to getting a deal on powder coating is to do any prep they need for them. Then ask when they will be doing a run in the color you want. They already have the equipment running black so there is no setup time or switching for them to do.

etlsport

05/02/2011, 02:06 PM

Eric - Got part #'s?

here is the link to where I got them from

http://www.v-leds.com/Exterior-LED/Brake-Light-LED/Red-LED/V-LEDS-RED-V-STAR-M-SMT-p6472898-1-2.html

vt_maverick

05/02/2011, 02:08 PM

Thanks!

etlsport

05/02/2011, 03:35 PM

just finished making a light rack to work with my new (factory) crossrails and loadwarrior. my last one was built to work with yakima round bars

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/227329_802060726816_10501646_39738113_6461609_n.jp g

RamAirZ

05/02/2011, 03:44 PM

looks good etl!

Gussie2000

05/02/2011, 03:54 PM

Yesterday i had front brake pads replaced,i also changed engine oil.

Today i done wheel balance and alignment.

My fender is gonna be repair this weekend

Last task to take care of is the CV boot :)

VX KAT

05/03/2011, 10:36 PM

~ I was impatient (there's a newsflash) so got both VXC skid plates properly installed by my off-road shop. They were able to get them installed in the intended holes using 50mm bolts in the rear skid, 45mm up front.

He used a vice grip looking thing with each gripper thing being shaped like half a square, forming a square when they're pinched together. He used them to reach up under the rear cladding and pull the cladding and skid together at the same time, then locked that tool and installed the screws.

So I won't be taking these off and on while on the trail...well, off maybe...but will never get them back on.

My "rack" is currently undergoing cleaning & restoration so it's not in view here....:goof:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6646.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF4020.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF4018.JPG

~ Also upgraded to the 24" black powdercoat sparebumper.com. Looks nice and beefy. Interestingly, we couldn't get the 24" superbumper in my receiver...:_thinking...tried dremeling it but that was way too lightweight...I needed a grinder! So we took it to the off road shop for some grinding! Both the inside of my receiver AND all 4 sides of the superbumper had to be ground down...goodbye powdercoat! Will have to spray both a little to prevent rust.

Thinking of using the 18" as a sacrificial lamb off road.....thoughts on that? I could argue either way....it sticks out so it will catch more things, but it will also protect the rear skid/cladding.....

18" sparebumper.com....and Teddy catching some breeze! Truck is covered with AZ desert dust....but my cladding is still nice and dark under all that dust!
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6735.JPG

24" sparebumper.com
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6742.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6741.JPG

~ Next, had to get the 2nd hole in my receiver shaved down some in order to get a pin through with the skid installed. It was just a shade low, and at a slight angle, but Brandon fixed me all up, AND ...finally......I got a nice locking pin through! YAH!!! I found a model that's a bit shorter than many others locking pins, it's solid stainless, with a more aggressive security design than most. I really like how it looks!
It's made by "Lifelong locks", but the one I bought at HomeDepot was branded a "Reese" and has a really unique key shape.
http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-202255022/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

I found Lifelong had the same model on clearance for $9.99 with a more common "round" key.
http://shop.lifelonglocks.com/Stainless-Steel-Class-III-IV-Receiver-Hitch-Lock-Round-Key-100R.htm

~ Next up.....I got a wild hair and upgraded my front round marker lights (from the small LED towers) to some mega bright LEDs by Vision-X.
http://www.visionxusa.com/LED-Solstice_Prime/c1_106/index.html?osCsid=6f34d4f06e4be95ad2eae0014f11fed8
They're very much like the ones yellowgizmo just installed (http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=226072&postcount=1)
They're 2" round, with 40 degree beam pattern. About the same size as the Hella Micro DEs, but are 10W LEDs, lifetime warranty, mega bright. My stereo shop built brackets for them and used the OEM lens cover (although cut down), real clean install. Had them wired to my new OEM Rodeo fog switch on the 3 button panel. These pics don't even do them justice!

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF39801.JPG

HID LOW beam only:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6680.JPG

HID LOW beam and new LEDs:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6672.JPG

HID HIGH beam only:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6683.JPG

HID HIGH beam and new LEDs:
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/CSC_6684.JPG

~ Used my dremel to cut down my rail caps a bit since the cross members tend to walk a little when installed, and the edges of the metal brackets were hitting the caps.
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF4039.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF4034.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCF4031.JPG

oh, forgot....got the oil changed, and then I changed the PCV valve.

Phewwwwww, I've been bizzy bizzy bizzy! Moab here I come!!! :thumbup:

rsteinmetz70112

05/03/2011, 10:39 PM

Great Photos

vt_maverick

05/04/2011, 08:00 AM

VX KAT

05/04/2011, 08:28 AM

Skids look great Sue, although I gotta say the super bumper really detracts from the appearance of your rear. (LOL) New fog lamp LEDs look sharp too! I wish there was a way to get more light in there without having to fabricate housings - I wonder if V-LEDs' spider lights come in a smaller diameter? I think they're like 3" across, whereas you'd probably need less than 1.5-2" to fit.

I agree, the superbumper ain't da purdiest thing back there.....
These Vision-X "Solstice Solo Prime" lights are 2" wide and they don't fill it up. They added some gasket material and they're snug.
These suckers put out 860 lumen! :freek:...like I said, the pics don't do them justice.
http://www.visionxusa.com/images/new_solo_main_331.jpg

yellowgizmo99

05/04/2011, 08:31 AM

Were they $149 a piece or for two. The ones I got were about that for two and put out 1600 lumen total.

VX KAT

05/04/2011, 08:38 AM

Were they $149 a piece or for two. The ones I got were about that for two and put out 1600 lumen total.
$150 each light....ouch.....but I got a lifetime warranty from the local stereo shop, which is valuable to me. I see now yours were 2 for around $150.
But I got sucked in when he demo'd them for me, and when I saw that NASA, Trophy Trucks and the Border Patrol use them...

samneil2000

05/04/2011, 08:44 AM

Is the LED lifetime warrantied? I was wondering how long they're supposed to last with that level of output...

VX KAT

05/04/2011, 08:56 AM

Is the LED lifetime warrantied? I was wondering how long they're supposed to last with that level of output...

Website mentions 50,000 hrs life and they have an Electronic Thermal management built in to monitor heat. Plus they have the multi blade design that provides the most surface space for heat dissipation ....although they don't get near hot enough to melt the plastic housing...I made sure to ask about that. There's also dimmable if I get a separate controller.

I thought I was going to get flashed by oncoming traffic...but I drove 25 miles at night on highway w/o a single flash. I selected the 40 degree beam (vs. the 20 degree) cuz it would suit my needs better on the dark dirt roads around here. He said the 40 degree beam would also be much less likely to annoy oncoming traffic, vs. the 20 degree beam.

I did discuss the vibration they'd get in my circumstances, and he said that's why the Border Patrol etc...use them and lifetime warranty.
They consider bulbs "consumables" in the warranty for "Off road" lights, but these don't fall under that category per their product listing, so I think they may be covered.
http://www.visionxusa.com/p31/Warranty/pages.html

Ala5ka

05/04/2011, 09:04 AM

PittVXr

05/04/2011, 09:04 AM

Got new front door speakers installed yesterday. Went with Alpine SPS-600c components. I was surprised at how much the foam surrounds on the stock speakers had deteriorated. I guess that explains why they were crackling. Reviews online said that the Alpines were very good at reproducing highs and mid range and I have to agree with them. I guess the next step will be a sub of some sort to add some bass.

tom4bren

05/05/2011, 03:47 AM

Skids look great Sue, although I gotta say the super bumper really detracts from the appearance

:slap:

That SuperBumper looks great Sue. 'Course it's the same as I'm running so rekin I'm biased.

VX KAT

05/05/2011, 09:24 AM

Just a debadge for me, wondering how to cover Isuzu on the hubs? VXKAT is there a link to your build? I really like the tow rings, and the stance of your VX. And where do the new front emblems come from? Once mine is off then there will be a nasty dead spot on my grill :(

Thanks!

1) tow rings (aka shackles, D-rings, Clevis hooks):
This thread covers my shackles: thread:http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=17190&highlight=moab+shackles

2) Stance:
I'm not lifted at all, no TB turns. Tires are 285/60-18s on OEM 18" rims, which raised it about 1" - 1 1/4".
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=15787&highlight=cooper+zeon

3) Emblem:
Mine's made of titanium, a member (autox-racer) here used to make them for $60. Last year a thread got started to ask him to revive making these...he required min of 10 to do it, we never got to 10. May try reviving the thread again and see if you can get 10. There's a bunch of new owners, so maybe. The thread from last yr is gone, but you could contact him thru email and see if he's still willing to do the 10, then start a thread on it.

Second solution...another member in Tucson (Dayle) makes them in a variety of materials, from faux carbon fiber, to faux brushed stainless steel, and also various vinyl type, some puffy letters, (like Mile High VX has) some sharp edges like mine. He has more finishes than listed on his website, so contact him.
I HAD the faux brushed s.s. from Dayle and it looked like the real thing....well worth the $20 or so.....but when a titanium set came up for sale from a member that bought them long ago, but never applied them, I grabbed them.
http://svx-motorsport-accessories.stores.yahoo.net/veac.html

JoFotoz

05/05/2011, 11:14 AM

This weekend I will be cleaning out the dust from last years Moab......

.....so that I can make room for more dust this year!

:_steering:jump::_steering

Oh..and painting the new sliders, and a new CV boot too!

jo

MeowMix

05/05/2011, 01:59 PM

wondering how to cover Isuzu on the hubs?

...and this (http://www.401graphics.com/vehicross.htm) is the link to where to get the center cap replacements. I haven't done it yet, but it's on my to do list as well. :happyface

jmayer40

05/05/2011, 06:24 PM

Hopefully, installing OME VX3's from Inde.4X....installing 2 meter antenna for for dualband radio. maybe front caliper clean and paint ..

VX KAT

05/07/2011, 12:26 AM

Yah! Watch me lift my rack!
Got the pulley/hoist system finished up and in operation today! Thanks again to engineer Tom! :thumbup:

How many Nystroms does it take to lift a roof rack with spare tire, get it in place, line up the metal brackets and clear the custom rail caps, bring it down and mount it? More than we had today apparently.....:rollo::laugho:

Here's just a teaser of the "fun" we had today, check out the rest of the pics in the picasweb album:
https://picasaweb.google.com/114757442466168457700/PULLEYSYSTEMFORROOFRACKSPARETIRE?authkey=Gv1sRgCNf 4qpqO-Mf9Uw&feat=directlink
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSC_6888.JPG

MeowMix

05/07/2011, 12:47 AM

Looks to be quite the endeavor Sue...though I'm glad your rack is back in it's rightful place, lol. ;Dy; Your day appears to have been far more challenging than mine.

This week's task for me was to remove all of my badges other than the 3.5L, 4WD, and center caps on the rims...all while drinking a martini or three. The finish was peeling off of the side and rear badges; they looked awful and thus needed to go. Not that the sunfaded spots where the badges used to be doesn't look awful, but hey...lesser of two evils. It'll blend in time. Nobody will probably notice but me anyway, lol. Methinks I'm far too anal sometimes. :righty:

Mile High VX

05/07/2011, 06:59 AM

VX KAT

05/07/2011, 09:04 AM

Looks great Sue!

When I do mine solo (but without the tire so it may not work for you) I use a huge beach towel double folded on the roof, put the rack/basket down and gently slide it into place. No scratches and easy to move around and get lined up.

Just a thought.

Pffft! no tire, that's a piece of cake! :laugho:
~roof rack/basket - 29lbs
~spare tire/rim/metal holder -83 lbs
~combo - no, not priceless! %$#*&%

Tom....us weaklings couldn't lift this &%$#@ thing more than 3 ft off the ground just pulling on the rope (even with the double pulley).....so we had to abandon the 3rd pulley and was time to call in the horses! And the superbumper , now that 's priceless!

Actually since it was our first run-through, it was a little more complicated....won't be hard next time.

vt_maverick

05/07/2011, 06:05 PM

Looks great Sue!

When I do mine solo (but without the tire so it may not work for you) I use a huge beach towel double folded on the roof, put the rack/basket down and gently slide it into place. No scratches and easy to move around and get lined up.

Just a thought.

This is my process also - put on the rack, then lift and mount the tire. Course that doesn't help Sue since I'm sure 54 lbs. Is just as bad as 83.

Sue - what's your end goal here? Are you trying to drive "topless" except when you're planning an offroad excursion? Or are you just trying to reduce weight / drag? If the latter maybe you could leave the rack (and covers) in place all the time and use the lift only for the tire? That 29 lb. delta might make it easier for you to work your pulley system, and dropping a tire on a large rack (lol) is much easier than maneuvering the crossbar feet into the rails.

Triathlete

05/07/2011, 07:48 PM

Today I started my pre-Moab to-do list...
http://i370.photobucket.com/albums/oo150/Triathlete/DSC_0162.jpg

Today I removed my Asin hubs (drivers side is in need of rebuild) and put my stock slugs back on. Changed oil and filter. Topped off all fluids. Greased drive shaft zerks. While greasing my shaft (get your eyes out of the gutter) I discovered that apparently some time ago my rear sway bar has snapped in half! Break doesn't look fresh, so no clue how long it has been this way.
Still to do this week is tranny and transfer case fluid change and AC charge.:yesy:

VX KAT

05/07/2011, 08:12 PM

This is my process also - put on the rack, then lift and mount the tire. Course that doesn't help Sue since I'm sure 54 lbs. Is just as bad as 83.

Sue - what's your end goal here? Are you trying to drive "topless" except when you're planning an offroad excursion? Or are you just trying to reduce weight / drag? If the latter maybe you could leave the rack (and covers) in place all the time and use the lift only for the tire? That 29 lb. delta might make it easier for you to work your pulley system, and dropping a tire on a large rack (lol) is much easier than maneuvering the crossbar feet into the rails....you can say THAT again!

Goal was to never have to lift/heave the tire/rim up to or down from the roof rack......the ole' work smarter not harder idea. But wanted to make sure we had a system that could handle the full weight of tire/basket/holder/cross members....thus the test. Also wanted it so we can lift jerry can/s on the FJ.

Had the basket & tire on for the past full year, might have seen 1/2 MPG lower...surprised it wasn't more pronounced. I'm thinking of leaving the spare off now, except when off-road. I have hubby and AAA if I get a flat.

VX KAT

05/07/2011, 08:30 PM

Today I started my pre-Moab to-do list...
http://i370.photobucket.com/albums/oo150/Triathlete/DSC_0162.jpg

Hey Billy, see that Lucas brand in the auto stores all the time....what's that bottle say "Power Steering Stop Leak". I think some of the Lucas stuff I've seen in the stores is an engine treatment product, like Seafoam. Anybody use the different Lucas products?

Triathlete

05/07/2011, 08:34 PM

That is power steering fluid/stop leak. Yes, mine leaks a bit. Lucas makes various fluids. Injecter cleaners, oil treatmeants, transmission treatment etc. They make good stuff.

eblank

05/07/2011, 10:50 PM

2x^^ I use lucas and seafoam on a somewhat regular basis in my vehicles. I've been happy with both and have heard lots of good about them. From what I understand they are the best on the market (at least that's affordable).

mhill

05/10/2011, 08:56 PM

vt_maverick

05/11/2011, 11:56 AM

Goal was to never have to lift/heave the tire/rim up to or down from the roof rack......the ole' work smarter not harder idea.

It's a wonder someone hasn't come up with something like this for a tire:

http://www.shopbmwusa.com/productdetail.aspx?categorytype=accessories&productId=71

http://www.shopbmwusa.com/Assets/images/detail/X3BikeLift_71.jpg

tom4bren

05/11/2011, 02:03 PM

This would be more like it:

http://rhinolift.com/

VX KAT

05/11/2011, 02:33 PM

This would be more like it:

http://rhinolift.com/

Saw a lift system similar to the Rhino system, except it was on steroids, at the first Overland Journal Expo in Prescott....think the huge vehicle was called an Earth Roamer. Had a monster tire on the back and the lift system was absolutely necessary of it would kill a person coming down.

Ldub

05/11/2011, 07:58 PM

In the last few days I did some stuff to get reddy 4 MOAB!...:dance:

As always, there is SO much that's NOT gonna get done...gearing/rear aussie locker, new tires & wheels, insane bullet proof head & taillight protectors, wiring up all the non functional illumination (like I need moar), wash/wax/interior cleaning...:(

Butcha know what?...I'm gonna go & have fun anyway...:dance:.:dan_ban:.:_beer:.:dan_ban:. :dance:

:yesgray:

Zu4two

05/11/2011, 11:25 PM

Getting ready for Moab. The last two weeks I have done the timing belt, tensioner, water pump, all four cv boots, cleaned and repacked the bearings and had Ford F350 tow hooks put up front. The guy who welded it up for me said I could hang the VX up to dry by those hooks! Nice replacement for the little Isuzu hook that was on there. I also had a 4x4 shop weld a spacer in the tow point "hole" on the passenger side rear. This makes the clevis or d-ring a more solid and rattle free fit.
I also scored all three Trooper skid plates at junk yard. Sanded primed painted all ready to scratch them up in Moab!:yesy:

Mike, did you do the timing belt and other mechanicals yourself? If not, can I ask where you took it? That's crazy you painted your skid plates! But I guess with how high your lift is, you have half a chance of someone looking under there.

Ah, I remember when I cared about how my truck looked. Now I'll be lucky if I wash it before heading to Moab.

vt_maverick

05/12/2011, 08:28 AM

...insane bullet proof head & taillight protectors

Whatcha workin' on there Dub?

mhill

05/12/2011, 09:41 AM

Hey Kirk glad to here you are goin to Moab.
I did all the work in my garage. I used the write up on here for the timing belt and had no problems. I printed out about 40 of the 50 pages if you want them (no parts pictures). Timing belts can be intimidating so I was "just gonna get it started" takin it nice and slow. If I had tried I could have finished the whole thing in a day. Just know you need a special tool or impact to get the big pully off. And an impact may not put it back on tight enough. Some have made their own tool for this, the write up tells you how. If you want to put it off till after Moab maybe we can schedule a time we can tackle it together.
I love breakin.. I mean fixin stuff! :smilewink

Ldub

05/12/2011, 10:34 AM

Whatcha workin' on there Dub?

:naughty:

It'll be later in the summer before I get around tuit.

Think heavy gauge perforated stainless sheet...:yesgray:

Won't cover the whole headlight, just the top part that's crazed & dull looking.
The headlight "horns" will protrude through the cover.
Will cover the whole taillight.

Already have the mounting worked out, the templates made, & the material in hand.

It's as much, if not more, about appearance as it is about protection..

All I need now is some ambition...:_confused

Scott Harness

05/12/2011, 11:27 AM

In the last few days I did some stuff to get reddy 4 MOAB!...:dance:

there is SO much that's NOT gonna get done... wash/wax/interior cleaning...:(

Butcha know what?...I'm gonna go & have fun anyway...:dance:.:dan_ban:.:_beer:.:dan_ban:. :dance:

:yesgray:

X2

tom4bren

05/13/2011, 04:04 AM

etlsport

05/13/2011, 04:26 AM

Good luck at the show! I had really good attention at a show when I took my vx half covered in mud and half polished up to showroom quality. See my gallery for some photos

tom4bren

05/13/2011, 04:31 AM

Good luck at the show! I had really good attention at a show when I took my vx half covered in mud and half polished up to showroom quality. See my gallery for some photos

I remember. Haven't you had it in 2 Hooters car shows ... & placed both times.

etlsport

05/13/2011, 08:00 AM

I remember. Haven't you had it in 2 Hooters car shows ... & placed both times.

yeppers, I placed at both hooters shows last year. Had the VX squeaky clean for both of them though

Gussie2000

05/14/2011, 10:06 AM

Just went to pick up my horse from the body shop :dance:

The guy did a great job.

Now is time to clean & wash,my horse looks homeless,nasty & dusty

Next tasks to do :

Steering stabilizer job and anti rust treatment.

Cobrajet

05/14/2011, 01:20 PM

Boy & I washed & waxed the VX last night, polished the rims, polished the hazed headlights, applied tire shine (Yuk), added fresh B2B, ... Still gotta paint the wiper arms.

He is entering it into a car show on Saturday for Children's Miracle Network. He prolly won't win anything tho since he's got to pull out early for Prom. Unfortunately I can't go since I'll be in Lynchburg for Daughter's graduation.
Not to be outdone by Tom, I detailed my VX today.

http://home.comcast.net/~gregg.north/VX_20110514.jpg

1) Vacuum the interior and wipe dust off all panels.
2) Polish and wax exterior with Meguiar's orbital polisher, #6 Swirl Remover, and #26 Hit-Tech Yellow Wax.
3) Turtle Wax Ice on all cladding and hood insert.
4) 303 Protectant on the tires.
5) Rain-X on windshield.
6) Silicon spray on window channels.
7) Even checked the tire pressures (35psi) and oil level (perfect.)

No car show, and it's a nasty day outside, so I don't even get to show it off before driving to work in the rain on Monday. :(

tom4bren

05/16/2011, 03:36 AM

...and it's a nasty day outside, so I don't even get to show it off before driving to work in the rain on Monday. :(

I thought you worked from home in your jammies.

or

is this the 'once every other month' day in the office?

Boy got a trophie for entering but had to pull out before the judging.

Parts are all in for the half shafts. Gotta get it in for the re-build so's I can have 4WD again.

WormGod

05/16/2011, 07:00 AM

My VX got a good break this weekend. Saturday, the STi got a much needed tune and I just couldn't stop driving it afterwards with all that fresh new torque and hp. Enabled launch control in Sport# mode and flat foot shifting. Heck, and I still have more mods coming for it.... the poor VX might very well end up just getting a cover put on it in the garage very soon, heh.

LittleBeast

05/16/2011, 07:31 AM

I had a busy week with the VX. I took off the bumper, took out the headlights, rewired my hell micro de hid projector fog lights so that now I have a relay per bulb, seems to be working better. Also rewired all my non stock grounds to a better location and cleaned up the install.

Then I stuck the headlights in the oven to loosen the glue, separated the different parts, painted them all black (including the chrome housing), then I installed the new projector headlights and wired everything up with a new harness.

Then I installed a new a/c blower motor.

Then I removed the AEM dry flow 3" filter and cleaned it to like new with the k&n dry synthetic filter cleaner. Worked great it looks new.

Marlin

05/16/2011, 08:04 AM

vt_maverick

05/16/2011, 08:15 AM

Then I stuck the headlights in the oven to loosen the glue, separated the different parts, painted them all black (including the chrome housing), then I installed the new projector headlights and wired everything up with a new harness.

Then I installed a new a/c blower motor.

Then I removed the AEM dry flow 3" filter and cleaned it to like new with the k&n dry synthetic filter cleaner. Worked great it looks new.

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSGqgusRf0AqprkCkDUkIoVBWYZ8sYRq bTFhHGRQWVQDCrCOuIlLw

And thennnnnnnnnn... I took pictures of my projector headlights. Hint hint. :p

LittleBeast

05/16/2011, 09:34 AM

Place headlights on a cookie sheet with a DAMP towel on top of the cookie sheet. You do not want the headlight touching metal when hot.

200 degrees for 5-6 minutes, remove and slowly start working your way around prying the headlight apart. I wore gloves during this whole process and used a screwdriver being careful not to scratch the plastic that would be seen.

On the first headlight I had to return it to the oven once more for another 3 minutes to get it totally loose, on the second one it just took the original 5 minutes. To get all the nasty old glue out I used Goo Gone pro power from home depot. It was the only adhesive remover I could find that was safe for plastics and it is not runny but more of a gel so i just let it sit in the grooves for 10 mins and then scraped out with screwdriver came out great. On the clear lens I used the goo gone as well but just sprayed on one section at a time let soak for a few seconds and then used a hand towel to wipe it clean. Got everything off the housings this way. Sealed them back up with the right stuff gasket maker.

On a side note I got a little moisture in the headlights when the seals on the back were not covered well. I think back then I just used some gorilla tape to cover the opening behind the headlight on the rubber seal. Seemed to work back then. Now I have a rubber grommet shoved in there for a pretty good fit.

Pictures are on their way..... I still am going to drop the front diff replace all axle seals, replace power steering pump, replace the starter, replace alternator, the passenger upper ball joint and steering link and then reinstall both cv's and front driveshaft, and then start on the interior remodel in the next week or so, so pictures will come when I am done.

I guess I could upload some pictures of just the new headlights after I clean the Little Beast up. I have them all on my phone and texted Lisa(VXCrazy) some already, but it is dirty so I won't upload those ;-). I did take pictures during the whole process if anyone else wants to do the mod i will probably do a how to shortly. It does look really mean now, and I think they match the Hella Micro DE projector fogs perfectly! I like this kit because it uses the factory alignment so no adjustments are necessary to line up the beams, they were perfect as soon as I installed them.

Cobrajet

05/17/2011, 10:08 AM

No car show, and it's a nasty day outside, so I don't even get to show it off before driving to work in the rain on Monday. :(

I thought you worked from home in your jammies.

or

is this the 'once every other month' day in the office?
Some suit is in town, so my boss called a team meeting. Lucky for me, I was a week off, so I don't go in til NEXT week, and hopefully it will be dry. I did have one opportunity to show off on Sunday before the rains came through. Best looking VX in the whole parking lot!!

"once every other month" - I think it's been longer than that. I haven't bought gas for the VX since early February!

LittleBeast

05/17/2011, 11:03 PM

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSGqgusRf0AqprkCkDUkIoVBWYZ8sYRq bTFhHGRQWVQDCrCOuIlLw

And thennnnnnnnnn... I took pictures of my projector headlights. Hint hint. :p

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_1039.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_1031.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_1077.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_10921.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_1096.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_1098.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_11591.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_12031.JPG
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/3286/IMG_1205.JPG

Hey sorry I haven't taken any photos of the Little Beast clean with them installed yet. I am trying to get everything done under the hood and with the drivetrain before I detail the VX :-)

RamAirZ

05/17/2011, 11:10 PM

Awesome work!!! That's how they should have came! I worked on.... well crap :( I don't have a VX anymore

Bob Barker

05/18/2011, 12:27 AM

Ha!

and I'm jealous of your headlights little beast!

vt_maverick

05/18/2011, 11:33 AM

Looks great! Thanks for pics!

Etfren

05/20/2011, 10:52 PM

New lights look great, nice work.

Spent today detailing my friends VX. Full wash, clay, polish and wax and cladding treatment. Used Meguiar's trim detailer for anyone who's curious. I know its not the best stuff and wont last long, but its all I had on hand and it looks great for now. Didn't have time to today but I'll be taking some pictures of it tomorrow and I'll put some in my gallery. Still gotta clean the engine bay and fix the loose steering on it tomorrow.

Also, he had a new windshield put in it this week and the glass shop told him that the windshields are very hard to come by now. There were only 2 on the west coast, and the next closest was one in Nebraska and another in Texas.

VXobsession

05/22/2011, 12:44 PM

Well, my "Lilith" got a new fan clutch this weekend and a new sound system also. I've only had her a month and the previous owner blew all the original speakers and never replaced them. So now we've got new speakers in the front door, new ones in the back sides, and two 12" speakers in the back. With my freshly blacked out windows, I feel like a sexy beast in my loud VX. I live in northern Arkansas and NO ONE around here has even seen a VX. A state trooper pulled me over last week just to look at it. He's a big time off-roader with his Jeep and told me he's only ever seen one VX....it was in Texas, pulling out every single "off-road vehicle" that got stuck in the same swamp it had just plowed through. This cop was literally on his back under my VX looking at the suspension. I told him the next time he wanted to violate my VX he'd have to take me to dinner first. Gosh, I sure do love being the center of attention in this tiny country town.....

Mile High VX

05/23/2011, 02:50 PM

Gosh, I sure do love being the center of attention in this tiny country town.....

I hear ya'...I'd love to take mine back to Beebe, AR just to see the reaction in that small town of 4200...:bwgy::smilewink:bgwo::bgwb:

Mile High VX

05/23/2011, 03:49 PM

Changed front and rear diff fluids with Royal Purple 75W-140.

Change the aftermarket light switch from the Hella Optilux 20/20 to OEM switches...now all of my electical mods have OEM switches...:bwgy::smilewink:bgwo::bgwb:

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0426.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN04271.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0396.JPG

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/DSCN0428.JPG

tom4bren

05/24/2011, 03:48 AM

I removed the passenger side half shaft (shop needed it to rebuild my spare set).

Installed Warn hubs.

Removed front axle breather tube and installed a bellows. Y'all who have installed the super flexy IFS kit may want to think about doing this. IIRC, the bellows was $30 (over priced but that's the law of supply & demand - I could only find one source) and it takes about 5 min to install. I'll try to snap a pic tonight.

Removed rear cladding so Welder Guy could get measurements for upgraded hidden hitch (more tongue weight capacity). Ended up removing the rear tube bumper & gave it to him as well so that he can replicate the lower cladding bolt features (the hitch will replace the tube bumper in the final product). We may end up losing the assembly line hoop thinggy on the passenger side too but he's going to try to retain that. Since you can get a receiver mounted Mr. Scary hook, I didn't think that would be too serious.

Did a little grinding on the hitch so that the cladding fits better.

Tried adjusting the rear door that is sagging - made it worse.:)

RickOKC

05/27/2011, 05:30 PM

Today was battery day.

Yesterday I armed the alarm but couldn't turn it off. Luckily I knew about turning the key on-off-on because of this forum. :) (1) fob battery. I think it had been weak since I got the VX - never noticed the red LED on the fob before. :o

Today I switched cars during lunch. It started on the first try, but seemed to drag a bit. I barely had enough power to start after work. ScanGauge II said I was charging between 13.5v (stopped with AC on) & 13.9v - 14.1v while driving with AC off. Got home and the battery read 12.4v until I tried to crank it for a couple seconds and then it read 10.2v. (1) Duralast Gold (they were out of Victory White :p) from Autozone to replace the 3-year-old Bosch Platinum that came with it.

I also put on my new weatherstripping. The old pieces on the cargo door and the rain channel on the body around the driver's door had split. The rain channel really bugged me. A previous owner had used some yellow glue to try and put it back together so every time I opened the door I was greeted with something that looked like someone with a really bad cold had blown their nose on it. Eww. Plus, it was still split and fluttered annoyingly in the wind as I drove.

Next up... test out a speedometer calibrator and swap the springs on the back to see if the low side is a bad spring or if I have something else going on. Hopefully I can do that Sun & Mon if I'm not sore from helping a friend clean up her tornado damage. (Destroyed her house. :()

Ldub

05/27/2011, 06:36 PM

Tried adjusting the rear door that is sagging - made it worse.:)

Sheet metal shims? :_wrench:

Grif

05/28/2011, 10:06 PM

Installed Westin Bull Bar with Tones' (RIP) brackets. Fixed minor cladding mount issues.

Oh, and this is the first pic on the forum I've posted with the "Showroom New" cladding dye job, new "VX" badge and windows stripped and re-tinted.

http://1dl.us/kpw-l.jpg

Bob Barker

05/29/2011, 12:28 PM

I didn't do it, but I paid for it to be done...

bought some new tarz!!!
This is how it came to me when I first bought it
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p127/jonbradley_photos/VehiCROSS/012.jpg
and this is how it looks today.
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p127/jonbradley_photos/IMAG0079.jpg

I'm still debating fitting the 3" body lift from indy4x4, but won't decide on that until we see if the up and coming cv's and half shafts are going to be as bulletproof as we hope. Then I could fit some nice big 'ole knobbies on there!

Bob Barker

05/29/2011, 12:50 PM

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p127/jonbradley_photos/VehiCROSS/007.jpg
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p127/jonbradley_photos/VehiCROSS/IMAG0078.jpg

vt_maverick

05/31/2011, 07:04 AM

Thanks to Billy I now have the DDM Tuning HID kit installed (5K Bi-Xenon). No blue look whatsoever, and SO much brighter than before!

With any luck we'll get the brake light, reverse light, and turn signal LEDs done tonight... :D

Ldub

06/19/2011, 08:43 PM

http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l515/Ldubvx/DSC01399.jpg

RamAirZ

06/19/2011, 08:47 PM

Looks great Dub!

tom4bren

06/20/2011, 05:05 AM

Sheet metal shims? :_wrench:

Good idea, I think I'll give that idea a try this weekend.

Maybe whilst I'm putzin around in the driveway, I'll also finally fab up that license plate mount for the SuperBumper.

http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l515/Ldubvx/DSC01399.jpg

Too much red for my taste Lbud (opinions are like AHs I rekin ... everyone has one). Nicely done though - dang near perfesh-nal lookin.

Ldub

06/20/2011, 06:11 AM

Looks great Dub!

Nicely done though - dang near perfesh-nal lookin.

Thanx Guys ...:thanx:

"Too much red for my taste Lbud "

Says the man who drives a self described "obnoxious Proton"...:rotate:.:laughing:

tom4bren

06/20/2011, 06:54 AM

:):):)I was quoting Meow.:):):)

Maybe it's time to replace/paint everything grey on my VX interior with YELLOW

... NOT!!!

Vendetta

06/23/2011, 04:46 PM

VX KAT

06/23/2011, 05:33 PM

Mile High, I love the OEM finished look. Can you point me in the right direction of what parts/vehicles you picked at? I'd love to do the same.

Last week for me were the three bike racks and general cleanup, this week the Thule 38" fairing went on, and I've ordered some easy aftermarket cosmetics like the WeatherTech wind deflectors and front and rear mats. I've ALSO ordered a set of OME913s to prep for the lift I'll be doing in July, along with bigger rims and tires. Shout out to Rickshaw for the detailed instructions in his thread and also the encouraging PM - thanks bud!

I may have taken her off the road for a few years, sure, but now that I've got her back, I'm going all out. She don't owe me a dime.

Cheers!
-V

I did the 3 button mod around the same time. My bezel came from a '96 Rodeo., '97 Rodeo is same.
There's some slight differences in the footprint of the buttons, some are rocker switches which are slightly smaller footprint, instead of thes bulbous style push buttons.

Also, note, there's differences in the SWITCH and PIGTAIL you might find for the fog or rear gate release.
http://vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=226564&postcount=624
These pics show the difference in the shape for the pigtail.
http://vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=226543&postcount=3

http://vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=20073&highlight=pigtail+fog

tom4bren

06/24/2011, 02:00 AM

Hoping to get the quick disconnect drive shaft installed (FINALLY). Wasn't procrastinating this time ... wanted to wait till shop was finished with axles.

I'm thinking about pulling the trigger on this as well since I went with the minimal approach on the tow bar:

http://www.readybrake.com/brake-systems.html

Ldub

06/25/2011, 08:22 PM

http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l515/Ldubvx/DSC01423.jpg

http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l515/Ldubvx/DSC01418.jpg

http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l515/Ldubvx/DSC01414.jpg

http://i1121.photobucket.com/albums/l515/Ldubvx/DSC01402.jpg

This is becoming a giant snowball of a project. It started with a new steering wheel, then I decided to paint the door panels, that made the seats look old...&, not RED enough.

Now I'm thinking of re upholstering the arm rest in perforated leather to match the seat inserts...:rolleyesg

Help me Obi-Wan Kenobi ...:laughing:

Marlin

06/26/2011, 01:19 PM

LittleBeast

07/20/2011, 08:32 AM

I have replaced the inner axle seals on the inside of the front diff and then I replaced the cv green cups with some OE one's in much better shape and painted them red. Then I rebuilt and installed some much better OE cv shafts after painting them red and filling with new grease and boots. Then I replaced the upper ball joints and steering tie rod ends, and replaced the alternator, and am halfway done replacing the steering pump. I also had a new front cross member modified to fit with the dropped diff and painted red. I then replaced my old worn out front driveshaft with a nicer OE shaft, i replaced the old grease in the newer front driveshaft and painted red. I refilled the front diff with synthetic gear oil after reinstalling.

Vendetta

07/30/2011, 07:48 AM

Just had my OEM muffler swapped out for an Aero Turbine 2525XL.

It's gonna take some getting used to, in a good way though - it sounds amazing!

Next up: brakes, wheels and tires.

housertl

07/30/2011, 04:58 PM

My girlfriend and I just finished applying the second coat of Monstaliner onto my cladding. I will start up a new thread in the Mods section with pics detailing the process. Unfortunately, I also found my next project....my bumper bar is NONEXISTENT, and will need to be replaced pronto. Anyone know a good source for them?

JAMAS

07/30/2011, 05:02 PM

This is becoming a giant snowball of a project. It started with a new steering wheel, then I decided to paint the door panels, that made the seats look old...&, not RED enough.

Now I'm thinking of re upholstering the arm rest in perforated leather to match the seat inserts...:rolleyesg

Help me Obi-Wan Kenobi ...:laughing:

Sounds like, "if you give a mouse a cookie"....if you're familiar with the book.

VX KAT

08/08/2011, 10:23 AM

1) Well I went from "tempted" to "Buy It Now" and bought those grey/black seats on ebay. Used Greyhound to ship them from PA to AZ. Treated them a few times with the Zymol "Treat" leather conditioner....came out BE-U-TE-FULL! Soaked up that stuff over and over.
I also treated the old seats, really soaked it up, & came out nice. They're FOR SALE now.

Next, studied the workshop manual to figure out how to remove them, took several pics for reference, especially on the passenger seat with that cable.....and I jumped in! :_wrench::_wrench:

Took 2 days, cuz it's 96 degrees and I'm very S-L-O-W...but I could do almost everything from a seated position. :thumbup:
It went smoothly....I figured out exactly what part of the base I needed to transfer from old to new, even figured out the cable thing on the pass side after playing with it for a while.

And incredibly, I even figured out I had to loosen that one bolt on the track, to push it out of the way a little to get to the bolt behind it, holding the base to the seat! :_wrench: OK, if that's not what had to be done, don't tell me and burst my bubble.....let me think I problem-solved it, OK?

AND I had to improvise......I have a 3' pipe for extra leverage to break the threads on the floor bolts, but on the rear inner floor bolt, it was too long to fit. So....I had to improvise.....I have some carbon fiber trekking poles that are supposed to be super strong. So I took one apart and used the top tube as my breaker bar, my ratchet handle fit inside just fine, and the pole JUST fit, just rubbing the inside wall where the seatbelt hangs....
Was a little nervous as I was pulling on it, kept looking for deformation, but all was OK, didn't bend or tweak it at all and of course, broke the blue threadlock on the bolt. :_wrench:

........hmmmmm......:_thinking....none of my projects go smoothly......wonder what I left out, did backwards or messed up in general?.....

AND..

2) While the seats were out I removed both center consoles and installed the shifterplate covers I got from Ron, and Rowhard painted for me. That took a while to get centered and positioned with the little clips, but I finally got it. :clap:

Overall, I only needed Dave's help on a few items...lifting the seats out then in for one...and an extra hand here and there to hold something.....and one phone call to Dub for encouragement and an explanation of the cable, but other than that I did it all myself.....and they both work correctly!! :_wrench: :dan_ban:
I'm so proud....:mbrasd:

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8742.jpg

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8741.jpg

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8752.jpg

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8759.jpg

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8780.jpg

NOTICE ANYTHING UNIQUE HERE???? :goof:
http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8775.jpg

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8777.jpg

AND THE MADWOMAN'S WORK STATION/AREA......SHEESH, NOW I UNDERSTAND WHY YOU GUYS HAVE SOOOOOO MANY TOOLS! I CAN'T BELIEVE HOW MANY DIFFERENT ONES I NEEDED!

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8749.jpg

http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8746.jpg

Marlin

08/08/2011, 11:00 AM

VX KAT

08/08/2011, 11:20 AM

Awesome Sue! I remember doing my seats, not a whole lot of room in there. Doesn't it feel awesome when you do your own work!!!!? Even though it takes 10 times the amount of time a mechanic could do it in, I always feel better doing it myself.

I am curious about this leather treatment you speak of?

Thanks! :mbrasd: It IS really rewarding!

Here's the thread about leather care, looks like there's several really good leather care products, Zaino bros, Lexol, Zymol, Connolly, Meguiar's, mink oil: I bought the Zymol "Treat" conditioner in the white bottle, 8.5 oz. Like all Zymol products, it smells awesome, like banana coconut...sometimes I didn't know whether to apply it to the truck or eat it....:laugho:
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=17919&highlight=leather

vt_maverick

08/08/2011, 11:22 AM

Nice work Sue! But when you mentioned paintwork by rowhard I thought for sure we'd see some purple on those shift plates! :p

Marlin

08/08/2011, 11:25 AM

Thanks! :mbrasd: It IS really rewarding!

Here's the thread about leather care, looks like there's several really good leather care products, Zaino bros, Lexol, Zymol, Connolly, Meguiar's, mink oil: I bought the Zymol "Treat" conditioner in the white bottle, 8.5 oz. Like all Zymol products, it smells awesome, like banana coconut...sometimes I didn't know whether to apply it to the truck or eat it....:laugho:
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=17919&highlight=leather

When my oldest was 2, he ate an entire tube of superglue, poison control said it was harmless, as long as he didn't glue his mouth shut or anything.
I never would have guessed....Zymol, he would probably try making a shake out of it....lol.

VX KAT

08/08/2011, 11:28 AM

Nice work Sue! But when you mentioned paintwork by rowhard I thought for sure we'd see some purple on those shift plates! :p

I restrained myself......but don't think I wasn't thinking about it..;)

RickOKC

08/08/2011, 11:57 AM

NOTICE ANYTHING UNIQUE HERE???? :goof:Yep.... right off the bat! :yesgray: Didn't know they made 'em in that color!

So what prompted the seat replacement & surgery?

VX KAT

08/08/2011, 01:21 PM

Yep.... right off the bat! :yesgray: Didn't know they made 'em in that color! YUP, they do....Harbor Freight bulk pack. I've even got pink ones too ;)

So what prompted the seat replacement & surgery?

YOU
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
well, you .....and me seeing numerous pics recently where the leather was looking so good...:drool2:....and they just happened to be there on ebay.....and....and ...and...well, I just couldn't resist!

Marlin

08/08/2011, 01:27 PM

Yep.... right off the bat! :yesgray: Didn't know they made 'em in that color!

So what prompted the seat replacement & surgery?

Shew,I was thinking she couldn't be talkin about the ziptie, and thought perhaps I had fallen behind on our under seat anatomy. Didn't want to be the one with pie in his eye for asking about it....:smack:

Like they say, "There are no stupid questions, only stupid people."

VX KAT

08/08/2011, 01:32 PM

Shew,I was thinking she couldn't be talkin about the ziptie, and thought perhaps I had fallen behind on our under seat anatomy. Didn't want to be the one with pie in his eye for asking about it....:smack:

Like they say, "There are no stupid questions, only stupid people."

Guess it's possible that Isuzu had OEM purple zip ties on hand....:rolleyes:...:p

And thanks everybody here for giving me info and encouragement to take on this stuff! :heart::heart:

Triathlete

08/08/2011, 02:28 PM

Nice work Sue...we will make a mechanic out of you yet. I have used the Zymol polish back when I cleaned up and entered my VX in a car show (yes, it has been clean and all perdee'd up)....great products and they have a huge following in the car show guys.

Marlin...doesn't surprise me that super glue was harmless. It was developed for the medical field as a replacement for stitches.

Golfindoc

08/08/2011, 02:45 PM

VT, sounds good, BTW my VIN is 0562.
Alan

RickOKC

08/08/2011, 06:34 PM

YOU
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
well, you .....and me seeing numerous pics recently where the leather was looking so good...:drool2:....and they just happened to be there on ebay.....and....and ...and...well, I just couldn't resist!
Awwww! I'm glad I could "help"(?!?!?!) It's just too bad you didn't follow my lead and get the right color - MARTIAN RED (yeah, like that wouldn't look awful with Foxfire)! :laughgray Seriously, though, it sounded like you had to Frankenstein together your old and new seats. Is that right - if so, for what reason?

Shew,I was thinking she couldn't be talkin about the ziptie, and thought perhaps I had fallen behind on our under seat anatomy. Didn't want to be the one with pie in his eye for asking about it....:smack:

Like they say, "There are no stupid questions, only stupid people."
Around here they say, "There are no stupid questions, only stupid people".... and then glance in my direction. They try not to, but it happens. :_crying:

VX KAT

08/08/2011, 07:26 PM

Awwww! I'm glad I could "help"(?!?!?!) It's just too bad you didn't follow my lead and get the right color - MARTIAN RED (yeah, like that wouldn't look awful with Foxfire)! :laughgray Seriously, though, it sounded like you had to Frankenstein together your old and new seats. Is that right - if so, for what reason?

It wasn't really Frankensteining them, just had to re-use the metal base & tracks from the old, pop 'em on the new.

I say "pop 'em on the new" like that was an easy thing...after all, it's ONLY 4 bolts, but some rocket scientist placed 2 of the 4 inside the black metal spacer box/base...and they have a little peep hole cut out so you've got to TRY to get your socket extension down 3" or so, get the bolt to hit the hole, and then catch the threads....at an angle....all in total darkeness as the black metal base has very limited openings for light :mado:

The passenger side rear inner bolt hole was more offset from the "peephole", making it at an angle more so than the other side....(due to being handmade perhaps?) making it extremely frustrating trying to get the bolt threads to catch....I had earthquake putty holding the bolt in my socket, (after retrieving the bolt twice with tweezers...:rollo:) taped my socket extensions together and it was still over an hour before I got it.....:_brickwal,....hey I said I was slow....

RickOKC

08/08/2011, 07:45 PM

VX KAT

08/08/2011, 08:07 PM

Oh wow... what was wrong with the bases? You're talking about the bottom slider rails, right? Did something seize up or become hard to move back 'n forth?

"Congrats & good job" to you, by the way - especially considering the heat!

No problem with them, just that new seats didn't come with that part.
So I had to take the bottom slider rails and base from MY seats and put them on the new. Have you put your new ones in yet? Did yours come with the metal base and slider rails?

My new ones came just like this:
http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8741.jpg

RickOKC

08/08/2011, 08:41 PM

Ah ha - I finally understand! :rotate: Yep, my replacement seats came with everything. If it wasn't for needing to spend a lot of time cleaning the "new" seats and fitting the extended sliders on the passenger side, the entire process would have been simply "Remove old / install new - 4 bolts each seat." :yesgray:

Triathlete

08/08/2011, 09:36 PM

Ah ha - I finally understand! :rotate:

And we thought Sue was slow!:bwgy::laughy::laughy::laughy::laughy:

vt_maverick

08/09/2011, 08:10 AM

I...all in total darkeness as the black metal base has very limited openings for light :mado:

Sue do you have an LED head-mounted light, or safety goggles with LEDs on them? I picked up a pair of goggles about a year ago, takes watch batteries but they last forever. Amazing how much easier it is to work with them on.

Just a tip in case you don't have a set.

VX KAT

08/09/2011, 11:05 AM

Sue do you have an LED head-mounted light, or safety goggles with LEDs on them? I picked up a pair of goggles about a year ago, takes watch batteries but they last forever. Amazing how much easier it is to work with them on.

Just a tip in case you don't have a set.
Thanks. I have an LED headlamp and that may have helped a little. The access hole is pretty small, but I might have been able to get a little light in from the headlamp (without gluing it to my nose :laugho:)....but it was 96+ degrees and I sure didn't think of putting the headlight headband on.

I found this one pic that shows a little of the access hole in the metal base/slider/rails. I tweaked the contrast etc to make it more visible.
See the bronze colored bolt head? That's the one I had to remove to push the rails upward a little on this one end to gain FULL access to the access hole. I used a rubber mallet to tap it upward a bit.

You can see the access hole about 2-3" to the left of the bronze bolt, then down about 1".
It's immediately above the white towel, it's a black half moon shape.
The bolt itself that mounts this base to the seat is about 3" behind the access hole. Fun! :goof:
http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g386/photokat4/DSC_8774-1-1.jpg