The Cruiser Build

[robertf03]

do most aftermarket sliders mount to the frame? those flares look like they stick out pretty far and to make it look right that might be more than the door sill is up to holding.

[Shaggy]

pinon creek

[96beast]

do most aftermarket sliders mount to the frame? those flares look like they stick out pretty far and to make it look right that might be more than the door sill is up to holding.

The stock plastic running boards are attached to the door sill/body and yes, all aftermarket sliders attach to the frame. Everything black in the picture comes off when the running boards are removed. Here's an example of what sliders look like on these rigs... first one I came across.

[Seth]

Tires probably net the biggest increase in off-road performance.

I'd have to disagree, lockers can get you places (and out) with smaller tires.

[BroncoJo]

I'd have to disagree, lockers can get you places (and out) with smaller tires.

I did not necessarily mean bigger tires, but also something with stronger side-walls and more cut/puncture resistant. Granted front and rear lockers will definitely be a bigger improvement over swapping in same size all terrains.

[96beast]

So I've got a little bit of cash right now and was wanting to move forward with building some under-body protection.

Check out this thread for various designs: http://forum.ih8mud.com/80-series-te...s-sliders.html

And I think these are the best candidates. Solid design, relatively easy to build, and cheap. Also a great write-up on how they were made. http://forum.ih8mud.com/80-series-te...d-w-picks.html

What do you guys think? Does anyone have a cutter/tube-bender/welder and would be willing to help me with this? Keep in mind that manufactured or custom fabbed sliders run $800-1000 while the materials to make my own would be about $300 (thats a lot of beer...). The other thing I need is a good skid plate but that should be easier to make and cheaper than the sliders.

Once I get these two things out of the way I'll be figuring out the lift/tires (and maybe rear bumper). I think a reasonable goal is to have this thing rock-ready by TCC. Thoughts?

[Sharpe]

Do you have any metal fabrication experience?

[bcolman]

your time table sounds doable, if you can find someone who has the tools in town to help you out

[96beast]

I have plenty of experience with wood and even glass but never worked with metal. I guess one of the things I'd like some of the more experienced members to answer is whether or not I should even attempt something like this with zero experience or if I should just save and go with a proven bolt on option. I'd definitely be willing to learn if anybody was willing to help. For the sliders the hardest part will definitely be measuring and making sure they mate up right, especially around the cats.

[colman]

do it your self. the only way to learn is to do it yourself. i'm shure if you provide enough lubrication (ky or beer depending on which resident). the dexter people will be able to find some time to help you.... I always enjoy offering other peoples time.

[Sparling]

do it your self. the only way to learn is to do it yourself. i'm shure if you provide enough lubrication (ky or beer depending on which resident). the dexter people will be able to find some time to help you.... I always enjoy offering other peoples time.

You can leave out the ky, tommy isn't technically a resident.

[DRAGOONRANCH]

for the 500 bones difference, find you a good 110 stick welder on CL, a HF angle grinder w/ some (dewalt) cut off and grinding wheels and pay someone to cut out the plate for you. Not only will you get experience, you will have some tools to boot.

[Shaggy]

build it yourself. shouldnt take but a weekend

[breckboarder55]

for the 500 bones difference, find you a good 110 stick welder on CL, a HF angle grinder w/ some (dewalt) cut off and grinding wheels and pay someone to cut out the plate for you. Not only will you get experience, you will have some tools to boot.

Don't forget that the average student does not have a garage, a place to keep tools, or an extra $500 to throw around.

But I get your point, and if I had a place to keep/hook up a welder I would purchase one.

[96beast]

Don't forget that the average student does not have a garage, a place to keep tools, or an extra $500 to throw around.

But I get your point, and if I had a place to keep/hook up a welder I would purchase one.

This is what I was just going to say. I really like the idea of investing in that equipment but I don't have a garage or work place or even room at my place to store that kind of stuff. I'm also a senior and will be relocating after I graduate this May so I'd like to keep the amount of stuff I move to a minimum before I settle in somewhere else.