Welcome to the obsession! You will most likely not want to stop at just one!
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Welcome to the obsession! You will most likely not want to stop at just one!
Hi folks...wondering if I should use my real name or change it up a little....its
Jarvis....a name equally as odd and uncommon as this forums subject matter...so..........maybe in time I could do like..?..? ..jarvx..?.....ya....I think that'll work
Hope im not breaking any rules there ...well....at any rate my saga will start as follows....I saw it directly across the street from me....at a dodge dealership litterally across from my driveway.....the curiousity got me initially....for one , they hold very little used car inventory ...but number 2 there was something vaguely familiar about it....so...there it was, a 99 Kaiser silver...visually immaculate...like from a time capsule...but ...with a hundred thou on it....slightly over 196 mi or so.....well from all my research in the past two weeks I know that some shy away from the 99 model but........also read that I probably won't see another one for quite some time so.....not really sure either, of what the fixation was but...( do I need to even elaborate on that one ?lol )... ....long story short ...I pulled the trigger on it today...and I am nervous as a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs .......plus turned over a Chevy Blazer EXTREME to them...still owing $2,200 on it I figured that was money that would be better spent toward the VX....so with no further ado...I hope to gain A lot of insight into this intriguing little truck....should take possession tomorrow or Monday after I put the cash down their hand....b t w ...paying $6, 800 ....not that it would have really mattered....lol....but does that seem like somewhat of a reasonable price even if it is a 99....
Ps ...life is short andmI'm old so hoping to have an opurtunity to make it to moab one day....after I get to know folks and my new truck ..
.thx sincerly
Jarvis xxxxxx aka jarvx
Jarvx again....forgot something.....a question....when test driving for the second time ...last time was a week ago I guess....btw ...to be more clear on mileage it has around 100,196 on it....not bad for 15 yrs old....just hope it is a good sign and not a bad one. Anyway ...T O D seemed like it wanted to activate today on dry pavement when at a stop and the initial take off...but hesitated ...only slightly but felt almost like trans fluid was taking its time to exit torque converter if im saying that right....kinda like a sluggish stall converter.is this normal on the streets ? ...also how did i get my name on here ? i forgot...want to post a pic and edit name plus add vx number....thx
Welcome Jarvx.
Yah, the TOD is active alla time. You should see some of the bars lighting up whenever you start up from a dead stop or punch it. It's a pretty trick set up with sensors monitoring wheel slip & applied torque to determine how much electrical pulsing to send to the transfer case.
It's hard to tell from your description if the tranny is in good health. I feel that our torque converter has a fairly high stall speed (compared to a sports car anyway ... but nothing like on a Caddy). Isuzu probably chose that to try to keep the VX from beating itself to death on the trails with wheel slippage. You may see higher rev's when starting up from a dead stop than you may have in your old Chebbie.
Get the dealer to check the tranny fluid level before you sign the papers. If that's OK & the shifting is smooth, then you'll probably be OK.
I'll hafta look on the home page to see where the menu is to edit your profile to update your user name.
EDIT: Sorry, I couldn't figure out how to change your username. Mebbe send a PM to Moncha to have him change it for you. The rest of the stuff you want to do you can get to through 'edit user profile' from the quick links tab on home page.
I guess its about time I introduce myself...seeing as I joined the forum mid-December last year.
I primarily joined because I was obsessed with the VehiCross and was looking to buy one. OK...I am obsessed enough that I actually own 3 now! My first priority was to buy one for my 16 year old son to drive - figuring that these things are HFS (heck for stout - keeping it clean since there are ladies present) and any repairs necessary would give him a chance to learn a bit about maintaining a vehicle.
Talking the ex into the VX was actually easier than I had thought...she thought it was "cute". The first one I found (a Silver 2001) had the tranny removed and disassembled. The ex was far from interested in a vehicle that wouldn't even run. I decided I was up for the challenge and figured I'd just have to keep it for myself - especially since the price was right.
So the search for one for my son continued. I found an 1999 Ebony...the ex agreed to the price (read, agreed to pay half), so my son and I went and got it.
The story relative to #3 is actually pretty sad. In February, a propane leak in my basement led to my house blowing up. Yep, blew up! This subsequently caught my detached garage on fire, which ended up melting the front bumper, headlights, side mirrors, etc. off of his car because I didn't have keys and couldn't move it away from the garage. :( Also destroyed were a spare 3.5 engine, the 2001 tranny (which I had just finished re-building), and a lot of parts. I should also mention that my 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser that I was in the process of doing a frame-off restoration of was also lost. MAJOR bummer!
So the search for a "donor" VX began as soon as I found out how hard/impossible/expensive replacement parts are to find - buying a donor seemed quite reasonable by comparison. I found a listing for a White 1999 with a blown engine. Figuring this was a perfect match since I needed the cladding and more for my son's and the tranny for mine, I trekked half-way across the country and snagged it. What I didn't know until I got there was that this one was an Ironman and, to be honest, the best shape of the 3! My Silver 2001 became the donor. I pulled the necessary parts off and got my son's back on the road in fairly short order - luckily no mechanical damage like melted wiring harness, just the wires to the melted lights.
I swapped the engine from the 2001 into my Ironman (not knowing that it was actually good) and let out a HUGE wooop when it fired right up on first try on Father's Day. Been happily driving it since.
The 2001 will eventually get re-built (parts availability the main concern) - I am somewhat a diesel fanatic, so it will get a diesel engine in its new life. Long story short (if you overlook my tome...) this one-time drooler/ogler of this awesome vehicle has joined your proud ranks!
Hey all, I just bought my first vx! Its a black 99, ome 913 springs are in the mail, planning on a set of goodyear duratrac's 285/75/16. New rims will be 16x8.5 with a +18offset. I'm shooting for the tire to be just even with the fender or sticking slightly out(please tell me if I am wrong!) I've done a little research on here to find just what I needed. Thank you
I saw my first vx 2 years ago and thought it was a pretty cool little SUV. I figured I'd never see another one again until about a week ago. I was actually trying to buy a jeep at an auction and seen this little thing sitting there absolutely filthy inside and out, but I knew its potential! Lucky for me, I was the high bidder!
I'm happy to find a vx community that I can learn so much from.
Cheers!
Donn
Welcome to the obsession, Donn!!!
Hi Donn, I'm pretty new here, but recently went with 16" X 8" Ultra rims, black with machined spokes on my 99 Astral. The offset was +10, the standard being +38. I did not use OEM 913s with spacers nor did I crank the torsion bars to get that extra front end lift. (Moncha did a great write up here: http://www.vehicross.info/modules.ph...ewarticle&id=8 )Quote:
Originally Posted by Thatguy
For tires I used the General Grabber AT2 245/70 R 16. The Grabber has great traction, rain or dry and is great in snow and ice. The Grabber is the quietest on the highway and is really aggressive looking and also the best bang for the buck.
With the +10 offset and no lift, the tires were a 1/4" proud of the cladding at their widest point giving an aggressive look without appearing modified in any way. I also had to trim a tiny piece off the cladding bottom front of front wheel arch to allow clearance when turning.
With +18 offset (wheel sitting closer to the centreline of the vehicle than +10) and a 285/75 R 16 (wider tire) you should be sitting about the same, only with a slight lift, you won't be trimming any cladding!
Hope this helps. Jayd
I like the story ...how lucky an iron man edition....I feel a little better reading your post......I'm going to try to stay in the solution and not concentrate on the problem with my newly purchased VX.....maybe a turbo diesel down the road would be awesome with a 5 speed manual.....just kinda makes me feel in a way like just the body style is what a lot folks are in love with.......on the other hand I've read about mods concerning or oil circulation in the cylinders like drilling extra holes in the oil ring groove...adding extra trans coolers...etc.
I really like the idea of the 3.5 plus its alloy , so ....... (lightweight)....really would just like to take what's there and make as many improvements on it as I can and keep it as stock as possible with mild upgrades...at any rate I can see this is going to be an ongoing labor of love....
My son, Harris, is now 22 and he has dreamed about owning a VX since age nine. I'm now 52 and his fantasies dragged me in to this deal. Saw this VX on Ebay two weeks ago and won the bidding war. Drove from south Alabama to Virginia to get it and now it's mine. Harris WILL get it in a few years, but I wanted to have fun first.
My name is Mark McKinney and I live in Jackson, Alabama. I am new to VX's, with only Virginia to Alabama driving experience - and I love it already!
Awesome! Welcome Mark! Good for you and Harris!
Well, after lurking around for a little while. I decided to join this weird corner of the motoring world. I've always thought the VehiCross was an exceptional vehicle (I tend to have a soft spot for underrated vehicles*) and told myself that if I ever had the opportunity to buy a good one at a good price I would. Today I did. 2001, White. But, it doesn't have the "Ironman" designations on it. Did they do white non-Ironmans or did a previous owner just remove the badging? Either way, I don't care. This thing is bitchin' (sorry, I was born in the 60's).
*a small sampling of the other "underrated collectables" I've owned;
- 1970 Porsche 914/6 w/2.7
- Saab 99 Turbo
- Dodge Dakota Shelby Convertible (Custom built by me, the only one in the world)
- Plus an odd assortment of bikes, mostly BMW's from the 80's.
This is the Pearl White from AZ. Congrats on a great purchase!
Congrats and welcome :)
T.
I figured id take the time to introduce myself to the board. My name is Craig, 28 and from the Austin TX ( Central Texas ) area. I bought my first VX last weekend down in Houston and absolutely love it. But man is it a challenge or what to find parts for it.
https://scontent-a-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/...34192873_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.n...58636605_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.n...1eea9cb7e12f39
Used to be one01proof's ride.Quote:
Originally Posted by TEXAGGIE-VX-01
He had oil consumption issues with it so be sure to check your oil often and fill as needed.
will do
Quote:
Originally Posted by TEXAGGIE-VX-01
Welcome! We have a large number of VXs in this area. If you're like, drop me your email address and we'll add you to our mailing list.
Hi, in in the DFW area. I've had my vx for about 8 years but just recently started doing mods.
I'm currently trying to figure out the best way to lift 3 inches in the front and rear without losing cornering ability. I've got my RANCHO 9000XL'S ready for install when I get the info I need on the right springs and spacers to go with. I'd appreciate any advice.
$40 on Amazon.Daystar KC09103BK Comfort Ride 1.5" Front Coil Spring Spacer Kit. Also, I got some rear springs out the junkyard for $20 (pair) off of a 99 trooper 4x4. $60 not bad for a lift. I bought some 912's from http://www.rocky-road.com/isuzu.html
that are still NIB if you're interested.
Hello to all,
so im not sure were to began. i have wanted a VX sense they came out. the more rare they get i knew the chances were slimming... however about a month ago i found one with a blown motor on C.L. for $2500. after talking the guy down to $1500 i purchased it and started working on rebuilding the motor.
this was an easy rebuild sense the 3.5 is a non-interference motor. after i got the engine going i started everything else. here is a huge list that im sure will surprise some, remember this has all happen in about a month.
deep breath.... :bgwo: 2 inch diff drop, 3 inch suspension lift, 3 inch body lift, custom toggle switch from a mini cooper, L.E.D Lights ALL the way AROUND, 15 inch rims sitting on 35" tires, Hella off road lights in front bumper with custom brackets, custom under vehicle air compressor, custom exhaust, 3K CFM electric Fan, custom 6.5 speakers in the back with tweeter, new 6.5 speakers in the front, 10" sub in back off to the left side were the jack used to be, custom Hidden Hitch made by ME... 3 inch gas tank lift. EXHALE>>>>>:winky: i own an automotive shop and on my down time on weekends and while the wife had girl nights this is what i was working on. this week i plan on putting 4.56s in it. LOL... now that i put it all down on here it does not seem like a lot...
oh and just this past fri i bought an 99 Iron Man. not sure if im fixing it, use as a doner or selling it for parts. i have a guy that wants one like mine so maybe i can build it up and keep another one on the road.
WOW, you have been busy
NICE!!!!
Mark down Moab in May next year...
...and come wheel !
Jo
That is something worth putting on the calendar. I'll be there. Now I just have to learn how to... Lol... Just getting into it. Anyone in colorado that wants to take a beginner wheeling let me know.
Lots of people start off as beginners in Moab. We take good care of you :) Lots of experienced guys there that are happy and willing to help out when you encounter a rough spot.
Oh, and by the way...WE WANT PICTURES! :D
Hey New to the community. Have loved the Vehicross since they came out and finally had the opportunity to buy one. Absolutely love it but I think I just blew the motor coming back from Oklahoma. I was just wondering if it is the motor can they be rebuilt or do you have to a used motor? Incase anyone has a clue, I was coming up a hill the engine got loud and stop pulling and then shut off as I coasted to a stop. The engine oil all came out the bottom. Any advice is appreciated?
Hi kirushi-
Welcome to the forum, sorry to hear about your VX.
I compiled a list of threads on the issue. You'll want to spend some time reading all of them.
It covers threads on oil consumption, engine failure, polls, experience, etc....
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthr...E+FAILURE+POLL
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthr...E+FAILURE+POLL
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthr...ngine+oil+poll
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthr...184#post166184
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...light=axiom+DI
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...light=axiom+DI
http://vehicross.info/forums/showthr...ght=iamironman
Here's the thread from Iamironman...
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...ght=built+2000
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...ine+swap+axiom
Several theories on Isuzu design defect in rings that causes oil consumption:
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...rand+pcv+valve
There's a ton of threads and much discussion about the oil consumption issue in many VXs.
Here's a list of many threads I put together where it's discussed:
What is your oil consumption? - lots of discussion:
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...lla#post247376
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...&postcount=163
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...threadid=22034
*****INDEPTH info from Isuzu Master Mechanic on oil holes, oil viscosities - Jerry Lemond's opinion, uses Rotella (**SEE POST #20, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 printed below**)
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
Mobil1
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
What type oil should I use?
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
What is your preferred oil? From 2010 Rotella, Mobil1, Eneos (post #30, #39
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
Finally had to add a bit of oil- talks alot about filters also
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
High mileage vs. synthetic oil - (etlsport 2009)
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...ghlight=M1-105
LittleBeast blown engine- ***good references on Isuzu issue, oil function, Rotella -see post #20
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
Marvel Mystery Oil - discusses detergent effect
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
Marvel Mystery Oil website:
http://www.marvelmysteryoil.com/index.php/site/about/
Rotella T15w40
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...&postcount=297
Rotella
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
Rotella- post #24 by "Buffy"
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
Isuzu bulletin confirms oil use 1 qt /1000 miles
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...hlight=rotella
pbkid describing how his engine oil caused blown engine:
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...&postcount=175
Hello,
I invite you to my new blog: www.vehicross.pl (or www.vehicross-poland.blogspot.com).
I am writing in Polish, but the google translator tool (which is available on my website) easily translates into English or any other language in the world.
I get pictures loaded, I'm going to the pit rally race this weekend, they are going to be hitting speeds over 200mph on public road...oh yea, I have a booth there going to showcase the VX hope to bring in some business. after it slows I will start uploading pics.
...and I'm from South Africa. I was standing at attention during that bit :p
Came across this site through Google, and haven't really had time to browse around a lot. Three posts up must have the longest list of usefull links I've seen in years. That's going to take me a while to work through.
Haven't got a Vehicross yet. The import control measures here make it almost impossible to bring it in legally. One or two of them around here, all on bordering country plates.
I'm currently busy (again) trying to buy one from Japan. We're RHD, and can't roadworthy anything LHD.... Already got the proforma invoice. Waiting for the approval, based on the vehicle being collectable. That's the only chance I've got. Should know by this time next week.
Isuzu is a very well supported make in South Africa. For years it's been one of the top selling Light Trucks.
I've got an Isuzu Frontier, you guys call it a Wizard? or Frontera? One mean offroader. I've cut out the independant front suspension and fitted a solid front axle while fitting the rear diff (Dana44 clone) under the leafs. If you Google "+Sakkie +Isuzu" you'll find her. She's just plain mean.
You guys have the 3.5 VX, in Japan it was the 3.2. We've got those 3.2 engines running in light trucks. many of them around here. Also some 3.5s, but they are rare. Isuzu diesels are more popular here than petrols.
When I hear about my purchase authorisation, I'll be back.
That looks like a great adventure you had...:thumbup:
Enjoyed reading about it & seeing the pics.
Oh, nice rig, that's a Rodeo here in the states.
http://i1100.photobucket.com/albums/...e_P1070076.jpg
Beautiful !
http://i1100.photobucket.com/albums/...e_P1070369.jpg
And this is BRILL !!!
http://i1100.photobucket.com/albums/...B_IMG_4482.jpg
Wow, Sakkie, that is some beautiful countryside there.
And you guys are not afraid to push your vehicles either.
Good luck with getting your VX.
PK
Thanks guys. That little Rodeo kicks serious butt....and takes names.
On youtube check out Jeep vs Fortuner. Obs 3 was the real tester. The Suz had to show that it is in fact doable......
Ill keep you guys updated on my VX progress....hold thumbs please.
Hi members: My name is Laurie and I'm a newbie to this type of thing so please excuse me if I am not posting correctly. I just inherited a Vcross which I believe is a year 2000? It belonged to my friend who was a paraplegic and had hand controls installed. Unfortunately the controls got stuck and he hit a telephone pole to stop the vehicle from going into on coming traffic. The Vcross has 5600 original miles on it if I recall correctly and I was told about four years ago that with a new battery it would start. Not sure how to post photos here but I took a bunch and wondered if anyone had advice to me as to how to best sell this vehicle now that my friend has passed away. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Laurie
Hi Laurie
Sorry to hear you inherited this from losing a good friend.
There are a couple of options depending on the amount of damage to the car.
Possibly fix, or part out for spares... and parting out is a BIG job....
...both in actual dismantle time, and packaging/sending etc.
Was the car written off, so a salvage title..or simply damaged and no insurance involved?
Do you have an idea of price you want..as it stands.
As for pics.. if you care to send me some showing damage and general condition..
... I may be interested, and I'll also happily post them up here for you
so others can look and give input too.
Send to:- JoFotoz@san.rr.com
Thanks
Jo
Great minds Jo! :yeso:Quote:
Originally Posted by JoFotoz
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...threadid=19721
Got the 00 Vehicross on the cheap and am bringing it back to life.
Not the original motor, I was informed it was replaced by the previous owner. Talked to the shop who installed it and could not get much information on the age or mileage. They did tell me they installed a new timing belt, so that is a plus. Motor sounds good, no leaks under vehicle.
So far I flushed the motor and filled with synthetic mobile 1 5w30.
All fluids are full and seem good for now.
Installed new Serpentine belt and pvc valve.
Got windshield washer fluid and driver side window working.
CV boots are torn, parts are on order.
A smoker owned the car, had to bombed the inside of the vehicle a couple times, seems to be smelling neutral again.
The Cladding needs attention and I am getting quotes on a paint job. I will put this off until last when I feel confident about the vehicle. I doubt I will stick with yellow but maybe.
Inside of Rims in flaking. For now I will wire brush and spray a high temp paint. New tires on order.
Running sea foam in fuel tank for a bit, after I will replace fuel filter.
I will be taking it to Crestone Needle in the Sangre de Cristo Range in a couple weeks. This should tell me more about the vehicle.
That is my Vehicross experience so far, love the forum...
Rick,
My Proton was 12 in front of yours on the production line.:)
Welcome to the family.
Tom
AWESOME! Very intrigued.
Frame off restoration, or are you looking to sell the rolling frame?