So, it's been six years since I built the Patrol and it's time for a "refresher"
Here is the build thread (from 2002), I finished the truck on 3-4-2003... http://tamor.org/forums/showthread.p...ghlight=patrol
Here are the build pictures:
http://offroadrepublic.com/gallery2/...2_itemId=20758
Since I built it the only major change that I did was the rear suspension 4-link geometry and set up.
What have I broken?
I've had plenty of steering issues: I started off with ram assist, then thought that it would work with just the ram, then broke the ram, then broke several iterations of ram mounts etc... It's been working pretty good since I fixed it at a shop in CO after breaking it on the Independence Trail in Penrose.
On the front axle, I broke one inner shaft (stock) and then switched to 4340 stuff. I also broke the "Lincoln" locker in the front third once
On the rear axle, I've broken at least 3 R&P's, two welded spider gears, and the "Lincoln" lock welds once.
I've broken about three rear driveshafts (the CV) and I broke the weld on the front once. I've always carried spare shafts so not a big deal.
I've also broken one T-Case rear output shaft (replaced back with stock)
The Goals:
1) change rear axle to something stronger (Ford 9)
2) Spend as little money as possible
3) lighten the rig
4) plan for bigger tires
How will I meet these goals?
1) change the rear axle to a Ford 9 Spidertrax housing.
2) lose weight by cutting off rear frame and switching to air shocks from coils, shocks, and frame
3) change the rear to some type of "skins"
4) possibly drop the front hood-line for better vision - do something with front fenders (the driver side looks like crap)
We'll start with "Before" pictures