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Tech => Projects => Topic started by: rjtx667 on October 20, 2012, 02:11:43 PM

Title: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 20, 2012, 02:11:43 PM
Ok so this is my "what have I done" project. Found it on ebay for $600. It runs and drives, it needs help but its a good start.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 20, 2012, 02:12:31 PM
more pics
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on October 20, 2012, 02:39:46 PM
well she is not the prettiest thing but i think you still got a smoking deal and solid base to start with. it even looks like it has all the options. if i could have picked that up for $600 i would have. my 2wd ramcharger cost me $1000 and it don't have cruise or electric windows or lock and it probably in worse shape even though it looks nice on the outside.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: minionsram on October 20, 2012, 06:52:52 PM
Shit brother, for 600 clams you can't beat that. I payed 500 for one that has no title for parts   That is a steal of a deal.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 22, 2012, 08:58:30 PM
well more bad news. I was swapping radiators from the 91 ( it gets the brand new one from the 92 lol)

the water was horrible and looked a little oily(oil looks clean), so i figured I would  leave the hoses off the radiator and feed water from the water hose to flush it without getting the new radiator dirty.

while doing so I noticed exhaust coming from the lower hose.  :crybaby2:

looks like its at least 1 blown head. so looks like i have more work ahead of me. I will do a leakdown test soon to see how bad it is.

I did get the driver caliper replaced, went to do the pass and found a lug lock with no key :-(

guess i get to deal with that soon too
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: phillip637 on October 25, 2012, 08:44:47 AM
that a great rc to work with, you got a deal on that thing. good luck with that thing man. i feel your pain right now im fighting issues with both of my rc's
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 25, 2012, 08:47:31 AM
I put the radiator all back together and bleed the driver caliper. I drove it around some, its still shifting funny, no OD and no 3rd but it did ok. I still need to do a leak down test but its moveable right now.

I need to get a tool to remove the lock lug nuts so that I can work on the other caliper.

I don't have a lot of time to give to it now simply because I have to get the 91 going and will soon have the 2000 to wrap up as well.

But it will be fun when I get to it
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: 80W150 on October 26, 2012, 05:02:14 AM
Lock lugs,,, worst idea ever.

How many RC's you got man? 3, 4? Wish I had the room to do that. :crybaby2: Meh, I'm better off I don't have the room. I'd have a fleet of trucks and not enough cash to work on all of them. We've all seen hoarding shows............... :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 26, 2012, 02:06:40 PM
I have 3 right now, not that I have room for them all... I am still trying to figure out where to stash the 93. I am not sure I have the cash to work on them all either, but I am trying.

More than likely the 93 is going to get parked until I get the 2000 done and the 91 back to the body shop for paint.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: Dodgestrike on October 26, 2012, 09:36:29 PM
it sure looks good for $600 , I can't find one for that over here
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 01, 2012, 09:55:18 PM
well got to drive it a bit tonight, I picked up more ATF fluid this afternoon.

I drove it, checked... not even on the stick  :icon_scratch: I guess because I changed radiators, and the new one had an extra tranny cooler. I added 2 more quarters. Drove around again and checked. On the stick so looking better.

When I drove it the 2nd time I found that if I started in 2nd or drive it did not hit first, but put it in 1 and you were good. Then upshift and it would work its way there... and then I finally felt it hit 3rd  :laughing7:

No OD yet just because the power appears to be out to that, I still have a wire mess to deal with one of these days. But the fact I am hitting 1-3 gears is promising. I think another TV cable adjustment and some driving will help a lot.

I have a few things I need to do, then I am going to go for an inspection. One of the first things is figuring out how to get these locking lugs off that I don't have a key to  :angry4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: phillip637 on November 02, 2012, 06:07:13 AM
On my dads w250 his vehicle speed sensor was causing him not to have OD. Don't know if its your problem but I figured I'd share that info.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 02, 2012, 10:55:38 AM
well I think its something else, the OD button does not seem to have power. When I plugged my red brick up it did not register the change in OD status.

Someone  :angry4: installed a POS alarm system and jacked the wires to hell and back. The inst cluster has no lights, when the head lights are on the buzzer is on cut wires every etc etc. I have a lot of cleaning up to do.

Oh yeah the power windows don't work either  :icon_scratch: :dontknow:

I got the power lock to work, I say lock as only the passenger door has a lock right now. Did I mention the ignition key does not fit any other locks? I have to keep it unlocked right now, not like I am worried about someone stealing it lol.

I hope to work on it some tonight, and to test 4wd since I have yet to do that. Its missing the handle. I have a spare, just need to find and install it.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: phillip637 on November 02, 2012, 10:57:49 AM
Sounds like you got some work to do. Don't worry I've got plenty too.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 02, 2012, 11:12:09 AM
I am torn between working on the 91 and the 93. I want the 91 to run again so it can go to paint, but I also want the 93 better so I can get it inspected and set as a backup truck. owning older vehicles I find backups are very very nice lol.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: phillip637 on November 02, 2012, 04:42:28 PM
Back ups are nice. Now don't get me wrong I love my old dodges but you never know when something can go wrong
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: mopar_daddy on November 02, 2012, 08:13:40 PM
I've got a complete 93 RC under dash loom and hatch/door locks if your in need of those items.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 03, 2012, 10:30:46 PM
hmm how much for the harness? lol might be easier to replace it than trying to patch this mess together. Might need the engine one too  :dontknow:

I will take some pics of it maybe tomorrow when I get back from nascar  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 08, 2012, 10:37:45 PM
Well I had to move it into the garage so I had more driveway room for a bit.

I can say its been very helpful having a put together model to compare the 91 too  :laughing7:

I did get the 4wd shifter in place, but it was too late to start up and test. It went easily between 2wd and 4 high, but I did not get to roll it around or test 4 low.

Maybe next week I can pull it out and do some drive testing, though I will have to be careful. I got the title transfer done, but I do not have inspection or tags at this point. I have a few more things to do before I can do inspection, which I need for tags. The biggest of that is insurance but I am holding off on that until I get the 91 buick sold off. Hopefully that happens real soon.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 11, 2012, 09:09:19 PM
Since its suppose to be a low of 39 tonight I figured I should replace the pure water I had in the cooling system, I drained the radiator and then filled it back up with antifreeze and water. While doing so I noticed the radiator cap was in bad shape so I pulled the one off the 91. I let it run up to normal temp then turned it off, it was not doing the strange stuff it did before so maybe that was just a bad radiator cap... I still need to do a leakdown test, but that has to wait until the 91 is at the paint shop and the 2000 is back on the road again,

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 19, 2012, 09:14:38 AM
Since I did not want to drop a fuel tank I figured I would work on this rig this weekend. 1 step forward and 2 steps back... or so it seems.

I wanted to look at the wipers since I need that for inspection, I still have ambitions of getting it street legal at least to start with. Well the motor was good and had power, so next I opened up the area under the wipers and I found the wiper linage all laying on the bottom  :violent1:

I got lucky and Orielly had the bushings in stock, but that is where the luck ended. It took me about 3 hours to get it back in and setup like it needed to be. I have a new respect for wipers lol

I also got both power windows working and the power door locks, well mostly... the driver door lock trys hard but does not always make it all the way up/down. I figure that will work out over time.

I also had a small leak on the lower radiator hose, so I bought a new clamp and fixed that. As soon as it was fixed and I was re-filling the radiator I found a new bigger leak on the water pump  :angry5:

it was at this point I just put it back in the back yard and went inside for the rest of the day. I needed a break anyways
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on November 22, 2012, 06:21:29 AM
I have  number of door lock motors that I have saved over the years. I may have a replacement of needed.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 23, 2012, 11:49:59 PM
I have a few spare motors too, but I think its more of a grease, bind issue though I could be wrong.

I broke down and got the water pump today. I tore it all off, and have to say after getting it opened up I can't believe that sucker ran!!!!!

Man was it nasty in there. I broke down and got

new water pump
new bypass hose
new top radiator hose
new bypass hose nipple
new heater hose nipple
new thermostat
new thermostat water way

It seems to be doing ok, but it was too late to do a good test drive, have to do that tomorrow.

I did notice while I was waiting on it to warm up 2 things

1) the heater is not working  :icon_scratch:  I think its missing a vacuum line for it, will look tomororw
2) none of the message center is working... no parking brake, no gate, no ABS, etc

so that make me wonder if the dash section was pulled out and not connected back up... which if that is the case could explain why the od is not working... it might be unplugged. Once again we will find out tomorrow.


I keep thinking I might give up on this sucker and just got buy a used 5.2 to throw in it for the $250 or 300 they go for... could be easier than dealing with all this lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on November 24, 2012, 10:11:44 PM
Every once in a while the red truck leaks water from the water pump.  It has been making noise off and on for a while.  Sooner or later I am going to have to break down and put another water pump on it.

The last two water pumps that I have changed, one on my daughter's Jeep and another on an Intreped ended up not having enough vanes to possibly move any water.  I suspect that's what I will find on the red truck.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on November 24, 2012, 10:34:21 PM
that suck. it does not surprise me that the thermostat housing is rusted out. it does surprise me that there is as much rust there as you found. i guess you are suppose to check fluids and possibly flush them on used vehicles that you just bought for cheap.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on November 25, 2012, 05:10:21 PM
 :laughing4:

Heck Wilferd, I gots a can of that there WD40 you can use.   :icon_scratch:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 25, 2012, 06:56:22 PM
well changing fluids is one thing, checking rust and "yuck" on the water pump impellers is something different. :violent1:

Richard, you should REALLY get that radiator rod'd out and flushed before you try to use it  :laughing7:

I got the locking lug nuts off, was a bit creative with the vise grips and a hammer. Once I broke the center caps off it was easy enough to do. I was then able to get the passenger caliper and pads replaced. It appears I will soon get to dive into a front axle  :(
that passenger side has some bad well everything. The bearings being the most noticeable noise, but the movement was also not a good sign. I have never been into an axle so it should be an experience... good things its not a primary driver.

I did get into the dash too, yeah all the connectors were not plugged in. Interestingly there was only 1 good light bulb in the message center, but I found some spares. While I had it apart I also checked the instrument cluster, every single one of its lights were out, so being cheap I found my spare LED's I bought a while back and threw those in. They are a bit dim, but its better than no light at all. A quick drive and it did appear to hit 4th gear, but it still needs some tweaking on the tv cable.

My new issue is the steering shaft. I thought I would be a smartie and replace the rag joint shaft with my borgerson shaft out of the 91 since I have replaced that setup with what was in the 92. Well the shaft is "frozen" at the current length, it does not want to shrink or expand in length and its about 1" short from being right on this truck. I am trying to soak it with oil and see if I can free it up, but no luck yet.

I am trying to get this truck to a reliable place so I can possibly use it as a winter road truck if it gets ugly here. Beyond that with the 2000 still in the shop, I am ready to get rid of the durango and the buick to free up some cash and my insurance premiums. If I get rid of both then I will need this one to be drivable until the 2000 is back in action.

Looks like that will mean a good bit more work, but I am hoping it won't be too bad. But rebuilding (more or less) the whole front end is not going to be a quick thing I figure, especially since we leave for disney this thursday and don't get back till the 9th.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on November 25, 2012, 11:25:00 PM
I picked up another 383 for parts and there was coolant in the motor but when I removed the thermostat housing, it was full of hard green gunk on top of the thermostat.  Water had not passed through there in a while.  Stalagmites were growing in those water jackets.  It's gonna take some cleaning.   :brushteeth:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on December 15, 2012, 12:57:26 AM
Well I spent some time on the trail rig tonight after I got home.

I have both front sides tore apart.

The bearings are "eh" so I will replace them, the passenger side has a bad ball joint so I will replace both of those and the u joints and all seals. I also have a few studs that are damaged so I will get those while I am at it.

The axles and all bearing area's look to be ok, but it was clear that the axle had been abused and ignored. I was shocked that all the bolts came out easy. The passenger side 4wd nut was not even hand tight !!! makes me wonder if that was not some of the sound I was hearing.

I have to go get the parts tomorrow, after that I have to finish getting the u joints off... it was too late at night to make much noise and who can take u joints off without a lot of noise?  :tongue3:

once I get both sides back together I will try to get the steering shaft on and take it for a spin. I want to get it on insurance soon, I think I might get the durango sold this weekend so that will make it possible.

This has been easier (so far) than I thought, and gives me more confience for the 91... but when I do it I will replace EVERYTHING I can and with good stuff, not the cheap parts at the store that have a decent warranty lol.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on December 15, 2012, 07:29:36 AM
Bear in mind that I have been working with smaller Jeep u-joints, but the ball joint press that I bought makes changing u-joints much easier and no beating with a hammer is required.  I do suggest clamping the joint press in a vice though.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on December 15, 2012, 05:15:47 PM
Here's a video of the ball joint press in use, removing a u-joint from a Cherokee drive shaft.  I lost the audio in the resizing of the video but you didn't miss anything.

The ball joint press was very economical (translated:  Harbor Freight).

vimeo.com/55690996 (http://vimeo.com/55690996)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on December 15, 2012, 05:32:55 PM
Thanks,

I am doing pretty good.. I had to go buy a new vise.... the old one I had was very small and I had bent it a few times  :laughing7:

New ones is a 5" and is way heavy duty, should be good for a while  :13:

I have the u joints replaced, they were in decent shape but defiantly dry and looking for a replacement. After looking at the bearings more both inner bearings look good and are Timiken so I am going to keep them, but both outer bearings don't look good and I am going to replace them. The spindle needle bearings also looked ok, I added some grease to them and replaced both seals.

I forgot the lug nut bolts that I need, so I am running to the store to get those. My last issue I have is the passenger side had bad ball joints (I am sure the driver side could use replacement too but not just yet). I got the old out and the new in, but my issue is that the new ball joints don't seem to line up like the old ones and the axle is hitting the lower ball joint nut  :angry5:

I am not sure whats going on, there is clearly a gap where it looks like the knuckle could move higher but I can't get it to go.

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on December 16, 2012, 10:18:34 PM
well I messed up and it was the sleeve that I did not set right. Seems to be ok now, but that cheap lower ball joint is just too long, I am sure I will end up replacing it before too long.. would not hurt to do the other side as well I am sure.

I messed up the outer axle shaft spacer, so I have to track a new one of those down.

I got it back on 4 wheels and did a quick trip around the block and it seemed to do pretty good. I still need to get the tranny going better, but its going and hitting all gears with a little persuasion. Once I get it on insurance I will put some transtune in it and drive it around a bit see if that helps any on possible sticking valves.

the next few things I see going on with this truck:

fixing floor that driver seat is bolted to, some of the spot welds appear to have broke free.... which is strange as I don't recall the 91 or 92 having a spot welded section there under the driver seat I will have to take pics.

Fixing the heat - its "warm" but barely and it should be hot, so I don't know if a valve is closed or what but that is my guess.

swap bumpers... both bumpers are jacked and the ones off the 91 are better than that, they will have to do until I get around to trying to fab my own.

tires/ rims. The tires have decent tread but are serious dry rot. I also have the rims from the 92 I would like to put on it since these are just steel.

leak down test. The engines seems to be doing better, but I would like to know what kind of shape its in.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on December 27, 2012, 01:24:07 PM
Well I figured out the heater issue, not that its fixed yet.... the valve on the heater hose does not have a vacuum line connected to it. Someone apparently decided it did not need one and broke it off, so I now have to do a repair and see if I can get the old broken line out to fix it.

I did take it yesterday to get an inspection, it passed with flying colors... I was Shocked!!!

So I have all my paper work and managed to get it registered and new plates today. Not real sure about the plates yet lol

BJ***93   

it is funny though the 93 ramcharger plates end in 93 and the 91 ramcharger plates end in 91

Now if I can adjust the TV cable some more maybe the transmission will start acting right... get that and the heater fixed it won't be too bad.

I don't think I mentioned it, and I am not sure what is causing it yet, but it feels like riding on ballon tires on this thing... very very bouncy. I don't know if its shocks/ springs or tires or combo of both. I did noticed where the 33's are a little too wide for the wheel wheel right now, its rubbing every once in a while on a spot in the back but a little lift should fix that right up.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: minionsram on December 27, 2012, 02:00:55 PM
My 90 is bouncy as hell too. I had the springs re-arched with an AAL on it. It settled down some but still its bad.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on December 27, 2012, 02:09:07 PM
this is way worse than my 92 or 91 so who knows. I think the tires are part of the issue but time will tell as I get things replaced.

I am just happy it is now "road worthy" according to the state of TX. Ice and snow bring it on  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on January 14, 2013, 08:52:09 AM
So I was digging around again this weekend tinkering on the 93 a bit, wanted to try and work on the TV cable some more. I found something very very bad.... the TV bracket on the tranny was missing  :angry4:

No wonder it had issues. I have not had time to make it to the JY, so I just borrowed the bracket from the 91/92 (its not drivable yet anyways).

Got it put on read the book and attempted to adjust the TV cable, did not work real good so I eye'd it and got it better. It still seems to want to start in 2nd vs 1st, but otherwise its shifting better.

I will hook it upto the MT2500 sometime and see if I can figure anything else out, but I am not sure the MT2500 will tell me much as its not a 46RE. My guess is I might have to drop the tranny pan and clean a few things/ maybe replace a solenoid/ governor that could be clogged from sitting for so long. Supposedly this is a fairly recent rebuilt tranny, but it was parked just after it was rebuilt. The fact it was way low on fluid and missing the TV cable does not impress me.

But you know what... I can stick it in 1 and it sure the hell can go climb a hill  :dance:


I need to get some better tires for it (I like the 33's, these are just dry rot), fix the A/C (I like to crawl in style in the summer), and I want to try and fab some bumpers/ find a winch.

I may have to find a way to bribe Ron into coming up for a weekend, or me coming down to his place so that he can bestow on me some of his great fabing skills and get help for the bumpers.   :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on January 15, 2013, 02:40:58 AM
Just make sure you have some old electrical boxes and ocean scrap ready.   :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on January 15, 2013, 07:14:12 AM
Quote from: SixGun on January 15, 2013, 02:40:58 AM
Just make sure you have some old electrical boxes and ocean scrap ready.   :laughing7:

Don't forget the bathroom wall panels for the hood and doors and I did buy something new once.

:dontknow: (http://:dontknow:)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on January 15, 2013, 08:35:07 AM
Well it was snowing and cold today, so instead of driving the 2000 as planned I figured I would drive this as the roads may be bad. They were not, some spots on bridges but not bad(not that you would know it from the number of wrecks out there)>

Anyways I learned 2 very important things that are now at the top of the list for this.

1) the heater suxs
2) the driver door not closing correctly suxs


The transmission is still not liking first, so I have to research that but I need heat and warmth fast lol.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on January 15, 2013, 12:57:06 PM
you got snow down there? that must be were all the snow went. all the snow up here has almost melted but it was suppose to come back hopefully not too soon.

did you even flush the heater core when you replaced the water pump and thermostat. if the heater core is as bad as the water pump, thermostat or rad then it is no surprise you are getting no heat. the heater core is probably plugged up good with water pump rust bits.

your truck would not be the only one that hates first. my RC seems to take off in second gear a lot. you never normally notice it unless you stomp on it. i guess that is the price you pay for using a cable instead of mechanical kick down linkage. 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on January 15, 2013, 01:00:42 PM
Quote from: crazzywolfie on January 15, 2013, 12:57:06 PM
your truck would not be the only one that hates first. my RC seems to take off in second gear a lot. you never normally notice it unless you stomp on it. i guess that is the price you pay for using a cable instead of mechanical kick down linkage.


Is there another way to take off that I don't know about?  :icon_scratch:

I think its either a stuck valve or a bad sensor/ governor. I will prob have to drop the tranny pan and do an inspection.

I did not flush the heater core because I did not realize the valve was broke/ stuck. I got that kind of fixed, but now I need to take the heater hoses off and force some air/ water through it. You can feel it hot on one side and not on the other side lol.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on January 15, 2013, 01:10:13 PM
with the way the water pump looked i am guessing you are going to see a lot of nasty crap coming out of that heater core.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on January 15, 2013, 01:28:20 PM
I can only agree with that.  :hmh: :tard:

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on January 15, 2013, 07:52:44 PM
 ???  So when you talk about hot on one side and not on the other are you talking about the hoses going in and out of the heater core?  Check your diverter valve also.  I've seen quite a few break or get crudded up.  It won't cost anything to force some pressure through the heater core with a high pressure fitting on your water hose. 

I just fixed mine yesterday and oh boy is it nice and toasty in there now.  Slim chance of sleet or snow tommorrow morning.  Texans just don't know how to drive in snow - me included.  Just don't see enough of the stuff.  Did you get any pics of the 93 in the snow.  If not - shame on you.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on January 15, 2013, 08:10:54 PM
driving in snow is just like driving is kind of like driving in the rain or off-roading. take your time and go nice and easy and you will usually get were your going.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on January 15, 2013, 08:48:11 PM
well there was maybe 1/8" on the hood and grass, some on bridges and none on the roads... not really anything to take a picture of  :(

That and I was too cold to think about pics lol. I have some really great shots of the 2000 I have not been able to get uploaded yet, not happy with the forum software for that :angry4:

there were TONS of accidents today, mostly because you have 3 types of drivers...

1) the idiots that go 20 in the left hand lane of the highway thinking its all black ice and never once "test" the road to see how slick it is.
2) the idiots that think its just like driving on dry asphalt and do 70+ weaving in and out of all the other cars
3) those who know what is going on, they tested the condition and are being cautious but know its safe enough to do more than 20 and less than 70

its not a good combination to have all 3... #3 with any 1 of the other 2.... Maybe... Maybe it would be ok, but not all 3 lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on January 15, 2013, 10:08:11 PM
I remember my first experience with black ice.  It scared the bejeebus out of me.  I had just spent 30 minutes freezing my ass off thawing the locks to get in my truck at work.  Finally got up on the freeway, not closed yet, and as I crested the first overpass there were people on the other side stopped and pulling over.  I tried hitting my brakes and whoa nelly.  I got off on the next exit and drove all 25 miles home on the access road.  Took me a little over an hour to get home.  I avoid freeways when it's freezing and if I HAVE to go over an overpass, I go really slow and down the center lane so I don't hit either side if it happens again.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on January 15, 2013, 10:16:50 PM
oh now black ice is lots of fun  :headbang:

give you a quick lesson for driving on ice/ black ice.

Unless its really bad it will usually just be on bridges. If its all over the road its extra hard.

When on the ice/ black ice there is 1 rule. COAST!!!! Don't speed up, don't slow down. Take you foot off all pedals and stick her in Neutral.

I guess the other thing to say with that is don't turn either lol You want to not change anything and just coast. If your coasting 99.999% of the time you will continue in the direction you were going without an issue. Once your pasted the overpass throw it back in gear and gently go on your way.

A few years ago we had that big ice/ snow storm around christmas. We were attempting to drive from Dallas to Amarillo. We took 3 or 4 hours to make the 45 min trip to Decatur, found a room and stayed the night. While driving on the next day it was ice everywhere, and we were in the 2wd durango. Not my preferred vehicle at that point but it was what we had. it did really good. We had 1 incident where I had to try and swerve to avoid something int he road, yeah we spun and did like 2 360's and got stuck on ice. Slick ice no moving forward or backwards just spinning tires. My wife got in the driver seat and my and my friend got out and we were able to get it back on the "path" everyone was using". It took us a few minutes and stopped a few cars but we got it done. After that no more issues, once we hit Whichta Falls it started clearing up more.

The other thing it remember when it comes to ice... 4WD just means you can spin all 4 tires  :laughing7:   Sometimes that is helpful, but sometimes its not. I would prefer my 4WD anytime to a 2wd though.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on February 28, 2013, 09:10:06 PM
so I got the 93 out of the back yard today, swapped the tires off the 91 on to it.

The tires on the 93 are to say the least... horrible. besides the 91 won't be on the road for a while.

After I got that done I took a look at the heater core, I pulled the hoses off and did a reverse flush. That was some nasty water.

I also figured out the vacuum valve was toast, and probably the reason it was clogged. I replaced it with a pass through for now.

I will need to replace it and the hoses soon.

So I started it up and let it warm up, yeah it has heat now  :laughing7:

Also drove SO SO SO SOOOOOOO much better. Was a bit loud, but that would be because the front fenders for the 91 are in the back and making all the noise.

Now I just have to get the fenders out and fix the driver door and it will be more comfortable to drive more often.  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on February 28, 2013, 09:13:40 PM
forgot the pic
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on February 28, 2013, 10:27:28 PM
that valve looks pretty bad.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 02, 2013, 02:02:13 AM
Heater is ready just in time for summer.   :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2013, 11:29:30 PM
ya'll are such a bad influence. Everyone talking about winches and sales

I broke today  :evil6:

Bought the Harbor Freight 12k lb winch that was on sale. I bought the receiver hitch setup like Ron and will get my receiver hitch mounted in back and figure something out for up front.

I now need to figure how where and how Ron did the wiring, as I like that plan he used.

Now just to work out the camera's and I should be pretty good for April.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 04, 2013, 12:55:44 AM
Etrailer has some weld on front hitches that can be custom fabbed.  I originally thought about doing that.

http://accessories.etrailer.com/search?w=weld%20on%20receiver%20hitch
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 04, 2013, 07:50:26 AM
see what I'm talking about? Bad influences  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on March 05, 2013, 06:32:22 AM
I bought some winch plugs, exactly like you buy from Warn on-line.  I will look up the source tonight.  They were less than half of what you can buy elsewhere but exactly the same.

You need to buy two sets.  They come in pairs.  You put one on the winch, one on each bumper and the last one on a set of jumper cables.  Then you can use the winch on each end and also jump vehicles from both bumpers.  In my case, I put a second battery (from the red truck) to run the winch.  I put a battery isolator to keep it charged.  Since the batteries are not connected directly, I can only run down one at a time.  However, I can use the front plug and jumper cables to jump the truck from the second battery if I leave the radio on too long.

Big expense here is tying the front and back bumpers together with a cable big enough to run the winch...
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on March 05, 2013, 08:33:34 PM
Ryan the problem is that ur following the advise and thoughts for redneck dodge guys. LOL That's the first bad influence. The second is one of them is Ron Yoakum :dance: :039: :happy3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 05, 2013, 09:23:20 PM
Quote from: chicken-little78 on March 05, 2013, 08:33:34 PM
Ryan the problem is that ur following the advise and thoughts for redneck dodge guys. LOL That's the first bad influence. The second is one of them is Ron Yoakum :dance: :039: :happy3:

Well my Dodge ran good enough to make it through all the trails (minus some low hanging exhaust and a battery that was not tied down). It made it all the way home too  :13:

This year could be different, but I have a whole lot less in this one too  :laughing7:

I am interested to see how mistress does.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on March 05, 2013, 10:21:31 PM
Quote from: chicken-little78 on March 05, 2013, 08:33:34 PM
Ryan the problem is that ur following the advise and thoughts for redneck dodge guys. LOL That's the first bad influence. The second is one of them is Ron Yoakum :dance: :039: :happy3:

You want to use the axles from my red truck on the JEEP you plan on building, you better wash your mouth out. :brushteeth:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 05, 2013, 10:27:58 PM
Quote from: workgoats on March 05, 2013, 10:21:31 PM
You want to use the axles from my red truck on the JEEP you plan on building, you better wash your mouth out. :brushteeth:

you mean the axles from the 82? the red ones are going under the 82 for the gearing right?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on March 06, 2013, 05:58:06 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 05, 2013, 10:27:58 PM
you mean the axles from the 82? the red ones are going under the 82 for the gearing right?

I won't let him have them, but we may temporarily rig them on the truck so he can roll it around. The springs are not the right length. I think if he keeps it, the Chevy axles and springs would be an easier match.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 09, 2013, 09:03:23 PM
so I bought the camera's and screen and they came in.

Have not done anything with them besides mock up the screen, but I think it will work good.

I also worked on the driver door some today, got it shutting better... not great but better.

I now have to put the door and dash back together, I will throw in a new stereo while I am at it that I had in the garage.

I did notice a leak from the passenger front side that I need to look into more, I wanted to try and drive this starting wed or so but have to see.

I did decide I need to give up and do plug, wires, cap, rotor. Its sometimes hard to start and I am thinking its more spark than fuel related.... who knows how long those parts are. When I re-do the 2000 RC I will take the fuel injectors off it and put on here as I have no doubt new injectors would be a good thing (the 408 is going to need 30# injectors vs the stock 24#)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 14, 2013, 10:54:53 PM
Minor things today, been driving it all week "testing" it out.

I centered the steering wheel (somewhat)... its better than it was  :laughing7:

I worked on the driver door again... it was sticking and hard to close/ open. Its better now, but I have a huge gap at the top  :angry5:

I have another white door, think I am going to try swapping them if I can and see what that gets me.

I replaced the fan clutch as it was trying to overheat a bit today and I think it had a lot to do with it... we shall see

Last thing I did was swap batteries for a smaller one that allowed me to secure the battery (I learn my lessons lol ) and I also secured the "power" wire that someone rigged up. When it "pop'd" loose from the battery the computer and tried would die  :crybaby2:

it was interesting going 70 down the highway and it "bounce" on and off and take the engine with it  :laughing4:

not!!

all in all not too bad, this weekend I want to fix the driver seat, it rocks way too much.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 16, 2013, 07:10:23 PM
so my jy run found me a 89 ramcharger that had major front end damage.... but it had a good driver door that I grabbed for a good price.

it has a few other parts if anyone is looking for something let me know.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on March 16, 2013, 10:08:07 PM
If it has a mechanical speedometer, the sender is a little rare and someone will eventually need it.  I have one but it has seen a lot of wear.  It is not on a truck since the red truck is no longer.

Do you still have the driver side door window?  I still need to give one to the guy that loaned me the one that belonged in his truck.

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 16, 2013, 10:09:59 PM
I do have a driver side window... I will try and remember it for HF in april.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 22, 2013, 09:05:25 AM
So I was talking with my brother in law some this week, need to borrow his trailer for Hidden Falls and all.

While talking he mentions he made a bumper for his old 97 dodge truck he had, said I can have the bumper if I want it.

I thought it looked like a pretty good job to me.  :13:

It might be a bit lower than desired for trails, but that's why we are going testing   :evil6:


Going to go get it and the trailer on Sunday, see if I can get it cleaned up, painted, and installed sometime soon.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on March 22, 2013, 04:51:39 PM
We should have enough stuff to modify it if need be at Hidden Falls.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 22, 2013, 06:16:24 PM
thats if I can get it attached before hidden falls  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 22, 2013, 06:42:34 PM
I thought about picking up a rear bumper like that at the JY for the 76.  However, same as you, I wasn't sure if there would be clearance issues.  I thought about cutting the bottom off under the smooth bumper section and either welding a hitch attachment (don't know if it will need one) or just add some anchors for some tow hooks.  Those bumpers are pretty stout. 

For mine, I really would like a pipe bumper.  I picked up one at Danger Daves for the front already.  That thing weighs a ton.  Demolition Derby ready! 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 22, 2013, 07:00:59 PM
thats nice looking, I want something up front, but not sure yet.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 25, 2013, 08:40:00 PM
Well in my harbor freight run, the main reason I went was for this.

Was a decent price, and does not make me loose the AC compressor  :evil6:


had good reviews online, they said it was ok by itself, but better with a 5 gal tank... might have to pick one of those up soon.

I still need to get that website from Ron for the winch power cables so I can maybe get those wired up. Man I have a lot to do before end of April.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 26, 2013, 01:56:13 AM
Tell me about it, these last 4 months went by real fast.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on March 26, 2013, 10:18:18 PM
Hey Ryan don't worry ur ahead of me. My front axle is in a million pieces and still finding problems with it.  :violent1:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 01, 2013, 01:42:33 PM
got back in town and went to move the 93, no juice... at all not even a little.  :icon_scratch:

go look at hatch... yup not closed all the way and the window glass that was there is gone  :icon_scratch:

oh well, I got a charger on it now, should be good when I get home from work. Not naming names, just fun to give people a hard time.  :tongue3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on April 01, 2013, 05:58:10 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 01, 2013, 01:42:33 PM
got back in town and went to move the 93, no juice... at all not even a little.  :icon_scratch:

go look at hatch... yup not closed all the way and the window glass that was there is gone  :icon_scratch:

oh well, I got a charger on it now, should be good when I get home from work. Not naming names, just fun to give people a hard time.  :tongue3:

I am truly sorry.  But, you told me it was hard to open not hard to close.  I didn't see any light on when we picked up the window.  We went by around 10:30.  And, thanks for the window.  I'll bring you some fans and parts to make up for it...
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 01, 2013, 07:54:05 PM
theres not much easy on that rig just yet  :evil6:

but its mine  :laughing7:

I threw the charger on it and it was all done when I got home from work. Glad you got the window, should work for ya.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 02, 2013, 12:27:39 AM
Scared me, I thought at first that someone stole your battery.   ???
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 06, 2013, 09:52:22 PM
got some free time after work yesterday to play with the truck.

my door I got at the JY was not as great as I thought it was, someone had hacked on it a little but its still better than what I had. The door will now *mostly* close correctly. It does not scrap anywhere and hits 90% of the weather seal.  :13:

I had to grind off the old manual window parts to install the electric ones. I also tested one of my efans and it seems great, I am going to try and mount it soon. I figure just connect it to a toggle switch on the dash for now, and then I can control it as needed.

I also got the rear bumper off and got the new one up by it. It seems I need some fab work there as the current bumper mounts are 37 1/2" apart and the truck is 38 1/2" apart  :icon_scratch:

Still working on figuring out what to do there... it might get thrown on the back of the trailer for this go round, see what we can figure out there.

Now I need to measure and order the wire for the winch, finish putting the door back together, and most importantly try and fix the A/C  :laughing7:

I have to replace some boards on the trailer too they look really bad. ???
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on April 07, 2013, 04:03:23 AM
do you got a spare coolant overflow container off a 91- 81 ram? if not you might need one once you install the electric fans since the magnum ones are mounted on the fan shroud. i don't even under stand why they changed them but the old style should bolt to the rad support. otherwise if the fans you got are like the ones i used in my 81 you should just need some angle iron to bolt it to the rad support.

did you ever replace that heater control valve? the a/c in my ramcharger started working a lot better once i repaired a vacuum leak at my heater control valve. when there is no vacuum the valve stays open but when you turn the a/c on it applies vacuum to the valve to close it and prevent hot water from being pumped through the heater core.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 07, 2013, 09:21:11 PM
When I upgraded to the heavy duty radiator I moved to the other style cooling tank

I think I am going to put this fan in front of the radiator because there is room there and I want to keep the mechanical fan for now.

I did buy the control valve, but I have yet to install it... need to do that, of course I also need to see whats up with the A/C and if I can fix it soon here too... maybe this week.

I did break down and order the winch wire and quick connects from amazon... OUCH!!!! thats not cheap wire
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 09, 2013, 09:54:44 PM
I worked on the trailer today, replaced the 4 boards I wanted to... what a PITA  :angry5:

The new boards were apparently wider than the old, so then I had to remove another row of boards and trim off a 1/4 inch or so to make it all happy.

Good news is they are all in and good so now its safe to use it.

I had to haul a friends broken car saturday and that was 1 scary trip across town with the boards creaking.  :fucyc:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on April 09, 2013, 10:11:58 PM
Ron and I weren't so luck. Went to move the small forklift from our old place. Once I was on the trailer the left side fell through the floor. We strapped it down and headed down the road. lol :dance: :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 09, 2013, 10:22:56 PM
had to be a sight... where are the pics?  :laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on April 09, 2013, 10:27:36 PM
There on my phone. I have no idea how to load them onto here.   :laughing7: :laughing7:
Oh and the sight to see was the unloading of it. We stopped at a equipment rental place where it was going and finally convenced them to unload it for me with a big forklift. I don't think they ever came across a redneck mexican.... :laughing7: :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 10, 2013, 12:52:16 AM
Ernest, just click reply and then at the bottom of the screen click Attachments and other options. There will be a browse buttom where you can find your pic and attach it by double clicking.  I went ahead and posted your truck for you buddy.   :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on April 10, 2013, 11:18:47 AM
The trailer we plan on hauling the ferd to Hidden Falls has some broken boards on it too.  We will be working on that in the next few days.  We also have some modifications that we will be doing to that trailer to get it ready both for work and for us to use.

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on April 10, 2013, 09:53:56 PM
HAHA!!!! Richard :laughing4: :laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 10, 2013, 10:23:32 PM
You likey.... I think it's a Uhaulchevyrado.   :039:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 12, 2013, 11:42:18 PM
well tore into the front axle today  :crybaby2:

its the inner oil seal.... which means basically I got to take it all apart... the shafts the carrier the cad system all of it.

I got the shafts out and was working on the carrier but I got tired so called it a night.

I will try some more tomorrow, when I get to the seals I will go ahead and replace both so I don't have to worry about it again.

Really wish I could afford some new gears, would be a good time to give it a go  :tard:

I guess if I screw it up really bad then I will just swap axles and springs from the 91... at least I know the bolts are easy to get off on the 91  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 13, 2013, 03:32:20 PM
Well I have to say getting the carrier out is a PITA  :angry5:

I watched video's and searched the net for tricks, and some I tried and failed, others I was not willing to try (was not touching the pinion gear).

I finally had my light bulb go off.. I took my floor jack handle through a strap around the carrier. I placed it on the axle by the cad unit... then on the other end I placed a jack (like from a durango)... jacked away and it worked pretty good. Made my own press  :evil6:

once it was out the seal was a walk in the park. putting the carrier back in was not bad either.

it appears that someone was in there before because the driver side "base" has a chunk missing, and it was not in the dif. I put it back as is because there is nothing to be done about it right now.

I now have the passenger side all done, THe driver side I need to get the intermediate shaft in and the c clip in. after that I have to install the new seal in the cad unit then lock the cad setup and finally get the driver side done.

Hopefully I can do that tomorrow, going to nascar now.

I also got a few parts to get for the a/c but it is looking promising.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: taz_man440 on April 13, 2013, 06:55:33 PM
Im guessing your not gonna need the spacer with the new hubs?  I'll ship it monday if you do. Thats my first weekday off this week...
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 13, 2013, 08:06:57 PM
might get you to bring it to hidden falls just in case but I think what I got will work for now... maybe
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: taz_man440 on April 13, 2013, 09:32:18 PM
Will do....   I do believe I have these parts because I put a set of hubs on my old 85 rc. 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 16, 2013, 09:52:00 PM
So... after I get the right seal (driver side is intermediate axle shaft seal  :tard: )  it went together pretty good.

I had a piece of all thread a few washers and nuts. pressed it in and got the axle all back together. Then realized I only had LSD gear oil and thats for the 2000  :angry5:

Oh well have to go by the parts house tomorrow anyways for the A/C gasket set. I replaced a few parts while it was open and need a few gaskets.

I did take a few pics of my hubs before the MM were installed. As you can see ( I think? ) you can see the spacer of my concerns. It is pushed back far enough to be in the bearings area and not the hub area. I left the spacers in on both sides and the hubs installed just fine.

A sad note, the hubs stick out to far to allow me to put the center caps back on now.  :angry4:   I guess I can live with that, these wheels won't be on there for all that long. Still trying to decide if I should put the older simi dry rot 33's back on it for the trip or keep the new 31's.


I also got the e-fan installed, but not connected yet. Its not a great install, just a few zip ties and a through condenser clip but it will hold. And I can say that sucker pushes some air.

This has been an experience getting in the front axle, and sadly I will have to do it to the 91 at some point soon.

Oh forgot to mention I did the CAD lockout as well since it was out.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2013, 09:10:47 PM
So today I finally got to put the gear oil back in the dif. Took it for a test drive and it did not leak, I did not engage the 4wd since I was on pavement, but I will try that once this week to verify that is working.

I also worked on the A/C. I out a new dryer on, replaced a hose with one I had a spare of. I tried to replace the expansion valve, but the new one would not fight  :angry5:

I also replaced all the gaskets on all seals, those things are a pain to get sealed. I am not sure if it is the old hoses with rust on parts or not. I broke down and borrowed a nitrogen bottle from my friend to help me pin point the leaks, they were both around the dryer. Finally got that done and it all sealed up. I left the nitrogen in there at 150 psi for about 30 min, no leak. I then pulled a vacuum on it for about an hour, got it to neg 29 PSI (I think, maybe its something besides PSI but it was neg 29 which is what its suppose to be) After that I got the oil in and the better part of 3 cans. It was blowing cold while I was messing with it, not that today was a hot day but its progress.  :13:

While I was waiting on the A/C I wired in the electric fan with a switch to the dash, nothing fancy but it works. It did seem to help, but not enough because its still trying to overheat. I got the MT 2500 out and saw it get to about 217* I can rev it up to 1600 rpm and it cools back down. I think its the non factory fan shroud that is causing issues so I will be trying to find another tomorrow.

I also worked on the rear bumper a bit and cleaned up the old mounts, ran out of time and did not see how it fit now that the old mounts were cleared out.

Oh the last thing I did, that still needs work was I got some white spray paint on the roof

:laughing4:

It looks bad, but its better than it was.  :13:

Will, did you want me to bring my driver axle seal installer? Its home made but works pretty good. You can borrow all of it except the part that goes in my ball joint kit, never know when you will need that tool.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2013, 09:24:51 PM
Forgot to mention I mostly fixed the driver seat. The floor under it had broke some spot welds, so I drilled 2 holes and screwed bolts in there  :laughing7:

My welder does not have a long enough cord to get over to weld it just now, but maybe later. It's a lot better than it was  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on April 20, 2013, 11:04:13 PM
Well ur much further than me for now. If we can get the roll bar finished and tool boxes painted and a few lil things. I'm calling it good on the FERD. It has been more of a headache than I was anticipating.  :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2013, 11:11:47 PM
if there is anything to do that is not cosmetic, then it's going to be a bigger pain than expected, espically this close to the date

your parking brake looked good

:13: :laughing4: :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on April 20, 2013, 11:14:51 PM
 :laughing4: :laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2013, 11:16:58 PM
I am going to guess your rear bumper is attached.... that's more than I can say. heck I don't even have my winch all put together yet  :confused2:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on April 20, 2013, 11:27:30 PM
My front and rear bumper are done. I used Ron's Front bumper off old red on the rear. Hoping it will help weight distribution. I built a new one for the front. Not to happy with it. It looks OK bur it warped from the heat. Good thing is that it bowed inward so maybe it will handle the pressure of winching Ron up the hill. LOL!! I haven't pulled the winch out of the box yet nor have I finished the mounting plate. I haven't run the wires yet either. I did build the battery holder today thought. Hope to get done tomorrow. Ron is wore out and I'm right behind him. We look like zombies walking around. 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: taz_man440 on April 21, 2013, 12:43:37 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 20, 2013, 09:10:47 PM


Will, did you want me to bring my driver axle seal installer? Its home made but works pretty good. You can borrow all of it except the part that goes in my ball joint kit, never know when you will need that tool.

Don't worry about it, ill fix it some day, it's not leakin enough to bother me.... not like it gets driven every day...
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 21, 2013, 09:35:01 PM
Well I cleaned up the new rear bumper yesterday, by removing parts of the old bracket and grinding down what was to stay.

Today I finally got time to put it up there and see how it looked. I am shocked it looks a lot better than I thought it would.

If I can massage it I think I can get 2 bolt holes to line up, I figure do that and some welding and I should be good. I did buy some spacer material at Home Depot today and I will probably need it, but its not near as much as I first thought.

I also bought some stuff to see if I can rig up a front mount at least for this trip. We will see what I can get done before friday. Worst case I bought a hook to put up front, and should have the hitch in the back.  :13:

Sadly after this I am going to have to put the RC's on hold for a bit... I have a patio and a storage building to build. Wife say's those will come first real quick lol  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 24, 2013, 09:28:40 AM
Well got some butane for the little butane torch I got at Harbor Freight... that thing is sweet  :13:

Got my ends soldered onto the wire for the winch, which let me get my winch assembled finally.

Tonight or tomorrow I will try to run the wire and secure it to the frame for the back mount, then depending on how much wire is left I will make the connectors for the front.

I cleaned up the bumper a bit more, then found out I was out of gas for the mig  :angry5:  I did get a little done but its not great without gas. I am going to try and pick up some gas tonight and maybe make an extension cord for it as it is a very short reach right now.

I started drilling the bolt holes, but man that was slow going.... going to need to try and get a new drill bit to do that or something  :dontknow:

At this point the things I still need to do, which I am sure they won't all get done:

Install rear winch wire
Install front winch wire
Secure rear bumper - weld and bolt
fabricate front mount for hitch
Install camera's and display

Man I need like the rest of the week off, and even with that I don't think I would be ready  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on May 02, 2013, 09:54:04 AM
Well I did not get hardly anything done.

I figured out how to mount the front hitch for the winch/ recovery d ring... I removed the front bumper and it sits on the frame nicely. When you put the bumper back on it you can't see the hitch.

I have not run the wire for the winch yet, maybe someday.

I did spend $10 at the car wash getting dirt off it  :confused2:  I am sure there is still some somewhere

I get to drive it as a daily driver for a few days now while the 2000 is in surgery.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on May 02, 2013, 11:32:04 AM
It was pouring rain the night I drove back into town so it did most of the dirty work on the outside.   The rest got a high pressure bath in the driveway.  What a muddy mess.  Yolanda told me I should have put it in the yard first.  Duh.... maybe next time.   :brushteeth:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on May 06, 2013, 01:40:14 PM
seems my gas gauge is bad or way off... filled up after driving to work last week... 12 gallons while the gauge showed almost empty  :evil6:

well rather that than the fact that I used 30 gallons of fun in less than 100 miles of tooling around  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on May 20, 2013, 11:53:37 AM
today just suxs. Been driving this as the dd since the 2000 is still getting tweaked and adjusted.


well the fuel pump decided to start going bad and leave me at home today.

I am glad I have a spare pump but suxs I have to install it today
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on May 20, 2013, 12:56:07 PM
Dropping the tank always bites.  Too bad it's not a pickup and just slide the bed over.  Hope all goes well.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on May 20, 2013, 03:18:13 PM
at least it didn't leave you stranded on the side of the road. plus this also gives you a chance to check the sending unit and possibly see what is up with the gas gauge.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on May 20, 2013, 03:20:05 PM
oh I will replace the whole setup... maybe tonight not sure, I went for the easier fix of the 2 and put exhaust manifolds on the 2000 while I wait for new headers
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 10, 2013, 05:25:36 PM
dropped the tank and replaced the pump in apx 3 hrs. skid plate is not back on yet, neither rear bumper. I will keep them off till I get the axle swap done.

on a side note, the gas skid plate had what appears to be new bumps in it  :icon_scratch:  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on June 10, 2013, 05:37:44 PM
so did you get to test the gas gauge/sending unit when you had the tank down?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 10, 2013, 05:42:36 PM
replaced the whole sending unit.... turned key on and it went from empty to 1/2 a tank. and I can say it was a heavy sob to deal with lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on June 10, 2013, 05:47:04 PM
 :13: sounds like fun. i am going to have to drop mine soon and am not looking forward to it. i almost want to install a skid plate just so i don't have to replace the straps.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on June 10, 2013, 06:04:28 PM
Quote from: crazzywolfie on June 10, 2013, 05:37:44 PM
so did you get to test the gas gauge/sending unit when you had the tank down?

Is this an "Advance Auto" sort of available item?  Because I'm pretty sure the float is stuck in MY tank.  Dropped it, replaced the fuel pump, and ALL the fuel line (went with stainless from Inline in MI), but my needle stuck just UNDER a half a tank, even after I'd filled it up completely.

We're not dropping the tank again until it's MUCH closer to empty, but it's something we're gonna HAFTA do for the long run.  :confused2:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 10, 2013, 06:10:12 PM
yeah you can buy the complete sending unit rock auto or what not... but I cheated since I scrapped the 92 I had, I put the 92's sending unit (that had been replaced) into the 91 when I dropped its tank to fix it. So then I also noticed that the 91 sending unit had also been replaced, but longer ago than the 92, so I kept the 91 sending it.. which I used to replace the 93 which had never been replaced.

So all I was out was 3 hours of labor and some spilled gas. I did not replace the lines as they still look decent, Texas heat is not as bad as northern salt.  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 10, 2013, 08:00:29 PM
CARTER Part # P74655M   $139.79

BOSCH Part # 67612   $252.79

I have the carter in both of mine
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 17, 2013, 09:26:20 AM
Finally started the leaf spring swap. I decided against the axle swap as I would have to re-do the front cad stuff, and I recalled there is a difference in u joints I did not want to deal with.

The 93 was SO much easier to get the bolts out, I was amazed. The 91 took me like 2 weekends just to get the bolts out.

So I now have the rear leafs done. The 91 looks ok right now, a little funny but not bad. The 93 looks like a want to be dragster with the back jacked way up and the front down low  :evil6:

I took some pics but they did not turn out well so I have to try to get some more.

I spent about 3 hrs moving the 91 around because I need to get some parts for the drive shaft so ended up having to push it around and back into the garage :-(

I should get the front swap done this week as well then finish up a few other little things.

Once the springs are done I need to get my winch wired up and a 2nd battery, then a locker. After that I will call it good for ram jam.  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on June 17, 2013, 10:34:12 AM
Can't wait for the pics. 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 24, 2013, 11:43:22 PM
Well been buys with personal issues and not had much time to play but made enough time to get things going.


Lift is done, 27" give or take to inside floorboard height.

I have the wire ran for my winch, I need to bolt the connects into place so they are secure.

I have the dual battery setup done, its "redneck'd" for now but it should help and work. I did notice that my alt is shot, so I think I am going to get a new 120 amp once since they don't cost that much more.

What else? I bought a front bench seat out of a 1998 ram that was in decent shape, but its going to be work to get it to fit so that is not happening this go round.

yeah like I said not a lot done but the few things were a pita lol. I still have to go back and put Jim's front spring rear mounts on there... just not enough time to grind and drill.

and yes, I know I need some bigger tires, but these 31's are very new so they get used first  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 26, 2013, 10:57:34 AM
So I was testing things after the dual battery setup... yeah the alt was putting out 16.4v with the batteries charged, turn the a/c on and it went down to like 13.8.

My tester said alt is bad, and I would agree   :laughing7:

Oreilly had a 120amp alt that was almost reasonable, so I picked it up. I am going to get it installed tonight and check on a few more things. I guess I also need to verify the wire from the alt to the batteries is big enough to handle 120amp alt, but I would bet its not so I will have to look at that as well.

after that its mostly minor things to clean up. I am picking up the trailer wed or thurs to get it all loaded up. Curious to see how the 2000 does pulling the load now that it has more power  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on August 26, 2013, 12:42:28 PM
 :great:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on August 26, 2013, 05:43:48 PM
i would almost be wondering if you have an electrical issue if it was putting out 16.4v and then dropping when you turn the a/c on. i think even if you didn't get the bigger alternator it would have still been a good idea to upgrade the wire that runs to the battery. after i upgraded the wires on my 81 i think voltage at the battery dropped about 0.25v when it was running. 

the RC still looks good. just need to fix the trim. looks a bit funny
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 26, 2013, 11:24:55 PM
it was a ground I messed up lol. got that fixed and its acting all sorts of better.

Took the old alt in and had them test it before I returned it, it averaged 8.3v output so yeah it was bad.

new 120amp one installed, not sure how to upgrade the wire for the alt yet, its all "connected' with the little wires so I have to look at the FSM to see what to do.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on August 26, 2013, 11:32:07 PM
it is hard to say which way is the right way to to upgrade the wire. probably the easiest way is just to add another wire on top of the stock one.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 26, 2013, 11:33:51 PM
that sounds about right lol

and run it to the 2nd battery  :great:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on August 26, 2013, 11:39:48 PM
Years ago I had bought a kit from summit for a trunk mounted battery.  They may still carry it.  It was fairly cheap with the long heavy gauge wire and a battery box.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on August 27, 2013, 12:14:58 AM
you can usually get welding wire fairly cheap. don't forget about getting a  battery isolator.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 27, 2013, 07:56:04 AM
yeah the wire I bought for the winch was not cheap, but its bigger than I need for this I think.

I plan to get the battery isolator after RJ just no time or $$ right now.

So I drove it around last night for a bit... never had a truck with "new" leaf springs... and I mean the fronts have less than 500 miles and the back had 0 miles.

Those back springs were like riding a bronco for a few miles  :laughing7:

it seems to have settled down some, but it is a little bouncy still. I plan to weigh down the back some more to see if that helps some.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 01:01:39 AM
so minus a few little things it did great this weekend. My oldest has decided thy name shall be Tristan.

Tristan ended up having to drive home from Waco because of a trailer tire issue  :angry4:

I did not go to work tuesday, then wed I drive him because I needed to get the driveshaft in the 2000 fixed.

Well on my way home Tristan's driver front caliper decided it wanted a rest, so it locked up. I just replaced both of them in November? Not really happy about that, maybe I can fix it Sunday. I had to leave it at my folk's town house.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on September 06, 2013, 08:10:44 AM
when you have bad luck you really have bad luck. hopefully it is not too hard to fix.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 08:39:54 AM
lol yeah I have noticed... did I mention a friend was suppose to by my 2003 durango... well 9 mo later he had not given me a dime so I said I wanted it back. He said fine but it stopped running today, went and picked it up... yeah he blew both head gaskets.  :angry4:

Calipers are easy, already did it once, thats the worst part is these are not 20 year old calipers... they are less than a year!!! but swap out put together, bleed and done. should be less than an hour.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on September 06, 2013, 08:45:11 AM
that suck. i would not have let the vehicle leave the driveway unless cash was in my hand
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 08:56:15 AM
well a 13 year old friend.... thought he was trustworthy.

he has said he will pay for parts... funny parts are the cheap part
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on September 06, 2013, 09:02:09 AM
parts are cheap. it is all the labor that is expensive or time consuming. hopefully it is not too hard to fix. 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 09:05:03 AM
Its clear you have not taken a head off a 4.7 over head cam v-8 before  :evil6:

getting all the timing marks to line up, without their "special tool" it's a real PITA

I have done it 2x before, I will do it again.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on September 06, 2013, 09:09:13 AM
nope. never taken the heads off anything. never needed to yet. hopefully everything goes nice and smooth for you.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 09:13:14 AM
its an experience. not bad though... and yeah I hope it goes good too.

it will take 2 weekends as I want the heads checked for cracks.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on September 06, 2013, 09:25:36 AM
ya. it is probably a good idea to get the heads checked and try to figure out why the gaskets started leaking. i have heard that some of those .7 engines tend to drop valve seats when they have been overheated.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 09:34:34 AM
yeah I had it torn down once for a blown head gasket, but not this bad. So I have no clue how hot they must have gotten it to do this.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 06, 2013, 01:32:17 PM
My brother-in-law has a Ram with the 4.7 motor.  I changed out the water pump and there was a trick to doing it.  Good thing I read about it online before getting stuck in the middle of the job.  Way he drives, I should pay attention for when he blows that sucker.   :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 01:37:20 PM
trick to the water pump?  :icon_scratch: I have replaced it before, and took it out for the heads before I don't recall any trick?  :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 06, 2013, 01:50:01 PM
It was more so the fan removal from the water pump.  The video I saw suggested a pipe wrench with cheater bar.  Made it smooth as butter.  Any job with a pipe wrench is great.  It's my favorite tool.  LOL
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 06, 2013, 01:53:23 PM
ah yeah the fan removal suxs because of the pulley on the water pump.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on February 01, 2014, 05:40:44 PM
So what's the latest and greatest?:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on February 01, 2014, 05:57:08 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on November 02, 2012, 10:55:38 AMSomeone  :angry4: installed a POS alarm system and jacked the wires to hell and back.

I'm starting to think this came "standard" on Magnum Ramchargers.  Mine has one of those two.   ::)

I'm gonna have my stereo done professionally, and let them also re-do the alarm, along with remote locks and starter.  Probably means another month in a shop somewhere - BEFORE it hits the road  :confused2: , but I'd rather have the POS alarm OUT, and a decent one in, before I leave it parked in my 'hood.  :o
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on February 01, 2014, 07:10:03 PM
It's scary easy to open them with a coat hanger made into a slim Jim.  Took me less than a minute without knowing what I'm doing.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on February 01, 2014, 08:49:48 PM
funny enough last sunday one of the drivers where i work locked his keys in his car with the car running. the guy in the office asked me if i had a slim jim. like i am going to carry one of those. i told them they could probably use a coat hanger since we had lots of those at work but they decided to call a tow truck instead.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on February 03, 2014, 12:12:04 PM
I don't even have locks installed on the 93, I just leave it unlocked  :laughing7:

I need to find me a new driver door, then I can worry about locking it.


The one thing I want to do next, and maybe soon... Re-key EVERYTHING.

I want the 91, 93, and 2000 to all share the same key so I don't have 500 keys floating around lol.

Of course I have it better than most RC guys since the 91-93 had the same key for door/ ignition/ and hatch.

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on February 03, 2014, 05:05:00 PM
can you actually get something like that done? get 3 sets of locks that work with 1 key. that would be so cool. i know i almost need to do something like that for my vehicles. both my 81 and 93 require 2 keys each. my 91 was the only truck i had the required 1 key.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on February 04, 2014, 08:13:21 AM
Quote from: crazzywolfie on February 03, 2014, 05:05:00 PM
can you actually get something like that done? get 3 sets of locks that work with 1 key. that would be so cool. i know i almost need to do something like that for my vehicles. both my 81 and 93 require 2 keys each. my 91 was the only truck i had the required 1 key.

I'd never thought about it, but my '92 RC is a one-key truck, too!  And so is my '07 Commander & '08 Caravan!  :o
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on February 07, 2014, 08:30:27 AM
why not get it done? they can re-key locks... just take them out and have them re-key'ed all the same.

Talked to a good locksmith around here who said they could do it no issue.

They have even re-key'd the rear hatch lock for me once... I had been told that was impossible to do but they did.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on February 08, 2014, 08:23:05 AM
The locks on the two sided keys only use one side.  In a lot of the Mopar keys you can key one side to one vehicle and the other side to another.  You cam notch one side of the back of the key so you can identify which way to use it in each car.  Only works on a few years but should work on the 91 and 93. 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: taz_man440 on February 12, 2014, 09:38:59 PM
I once took the door lock cylinders out of my 82 ramcharger I had.. Took the cover off the cylinder, dumped out all the lil pins & springs, put it back together then ANY key worked...LOL  how many people try their car key in somebody else's door....   
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on February 12, 2014, 10:17:09 PM
Quote from: taz_man440 on February 12, 2014, 09:38:59 PM
I once took the door lock cylinders out of my 82 ramcharger I had.. Took the cover off the cylinder, dumped out all the lil pins & springs, put it back together then ANY key worked...LOL  how many people try their car key in somebody else's door....   

I do every time I feel like getting arrested. :breakcomp: :sign0135:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on February 12, 2014, 10:56:48 PM
i had considered modifying the pins in my 81's door lock cylinder to match the ignition key. would be so easy. haven't looked at the door lock cylinders on the newer trucks to see if they can be modified.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2014, 08:06:06 PM
I am updating the Hidden Falls Spring 14 trip with the details, but to say the least... its messed up.

Broken rear driveshaft front u joint.
Broken outer driver axle shaft
broken driver cad axle stub shaft
broken driver axle u joint.


The good news... the springs held.

I think I have a few new dents in the body as well.

I got the broken bolt out of the u joint mount, I just need to get a replacement u joint and I will be back to 2wd mode.

I now have to figure out if I want to fix what I have or try to upgrade to 1 ton axles.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 20, 2014, 08:25:01 PM
Holy crap Ryan!  What happened? ???
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2014, 08:27:31 PM
http://ramcharger.net/index.php/topic,340.30.html

basically I think you could sum it up by saying "taking a 31" tire truck where no 31" tire truck should try to go"

:laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2014, 08:51:31 PM
forgot to mention that Noah was right... I was able to unscrew the broken bolt in the transfer case with the help if a little screw driver.

Now I just need to replace that u joint and it will be moving under its own power again.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on April 20, 2014, 09:22:14 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 20, 2014, 08:51:31 PM
forgot to mention that Noah was right... I was able to unscrew the broken bolt in the transfer case with the help if a little screw driver.

Now I just need to replace that u joint and it will be moving under its own power again.

Be sure to buy new bolts and straps for the U-jionts. Its cheap security .
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 20, 2014, 09:25:36 PM
I don't have much of a choice this go round since I am missing bolts, but I plan to.

I will also have spare straps, bolts, and u joints for it.

The mexico ram charger has 2 spares in its glovebox at all times now.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on April 20, 2014, 09:27:47 PM
Hang tight - I'll be ready to sell YOU a completely refurbished driveshaft, by late next week!  ;D
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on April 21, 2014, 06:58:03 PM
i can't believe you broke so much in one go. didn't you pretty much rebuild the front axle not that long ago?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 21, 2014, 07:05:38 PM
Ryan is working on so many vehicles at once, I can't keep track myself. :icon_scratch:

But I think that was the other truck - 91 RC.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 21, 2014, 07:14:47 PM
no it was this one, replaced all axle seals and both u joints in the axle. but you notice the axles broke not the u joints  :violent1:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on April 22, 2014, 10:05:02 AM
i just figured if something was going to fail you should have seen something when you had it all apart.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 22, 2014, 11:54:42 AM
So I've been thinking about your damage to the axle.  Do you think you smacked a rock at speed causing the break.  You mentioned bigger tires could have prevented this.   Do you think the axle was hit or the strike to the tire. Clearance issues being the main problem or cushioning the blow to the tire?   I wonder if the broken axle preceded the driveshaft break. Unable to roll forward under pressure, the driveshaft snaps the joint.

I just think you were going full throttle into a rock there Reckless Ryan in true Dukes of Hazard fashion.  Yeeeehaaaaw!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 22, 2014, 08:02:31 PM
I am not real sure, but I do know that lockers and 37's made it easy (er) for Eric than for me. That was all weekend long.

The tire height is going to make it easier to climb taller steps.

I don't think the rear u joint had anything to do it with, because it was able to be pulled by rope and winch before we thought enough to unlock the front hubs and be able to pull it up easily.

The axle shafts were both in good looking shape when I worked on the axle, but I am sure the force of spinning at some unknown speed then slamming into rock stopping the movement along with the added weight was not good.

It could be a simple fact that since I did that last go round in Sept, and did it all this go round it was a stress over time break that just got me at that moment in time.

Apparently, from what Eric says, I tend to come up the hills full speed ahead and he is always careful to get out of the way quick enough. There were a few times he tried to grab the go pro to film me and he was not fast enough.

I do have the rear u joint fixed, I am going to grab another as a spare along with spare straps. I should prob get a new lower u joint but after Noah and Eric talking, I think that is going to be a custom jobber there.

I also think that since they mentioned the driveshaft has been re-worked that could explain why I had no issues with the lift I put on it?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 22, 2014, 09:01:17 PM
I've been holding off on getting driveshaft ujoints.  Been looking at the combination joints.  I'm just wondering the benefit of that.  1350's are the rave but is it because they are stronger or able to get more angle?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on April 22, 2014, 11:35:05 PM
Quote from: SixGun on April 22, 2014, 09:01:17 PM
I've been holding off on getting driveshaft ujoints.  Been looking at the combination joints.  I'm just wondering the benefit of that.  1350's are the rave but is it because they are stronger or able to get more angle?

YES.  Double cardon gets the angle and 1350 gets the strength!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on April 23, 2014, 07:39:15 AM
Quote from: SixGun on April 22, 2014, 09:01:17 PM
I've been holding off on getting driveshaft ujoints.  Been looking at the combination joints.  I'm just wondering the benefit of that.  1350's are the rave but is it because they are stronger or able to get more angle?

I went with the Tom Woods BAMF Front Drive Shaft and 1410 Rear :)



Ryan If you would give me 1 minute to get out of my truck I could have filmed all your adventures!!! HAHA
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on April 23, 2014, 09:42:09 AM
Quote from: ProjectM880 on April 23, 2014, 07:39:15 AM
I went with the Tom Woods BAMF Front Drive Shaft and 1410 Rear :)


I JUST learned of the existence of such a thing yesterday.  Pictures and an explanation of YOURS would be awesome!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on April 23, 2014, 11:57:10 AM
Quote from: The War Wagon on April 23, 2014, 09:42:09 AM

I JUST learned of the existence of such a thing yesterday.  Pictures and an explanation of YOURS would be awesome!

Not trying to Highjack your thread Ryan, But here are my driveshafts compared to stock.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 23, 2014, 12:00:01 PM
no worries... some beefy stuff there.

I would have never thought a wore out 318 could break the u joint like I did  :icon_scratch:  :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on April 23, 2014, 02:25:13 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 23, 2014, 12:00:01 PMI would have never thought a wore out 318 could break the u joint like I did  :icon_scratch: :dontknow:

If you've revved the engine, with the wheels off the ground, then YES - it WILL snap on impact.  :confused2:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 23, 2014, 03:49:28 PM
Quote from: ProjectM880 on April 23, 2014, 07:39:15 AM

Ryan If you would give me 1 minute to get out of my truck I could have filmed all your adventures!!! HAHA

:laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 24, 2014, 07:44:17 AM
Quote from: The War Wagon on April 23, 2014, 02:25:13 PM
If you've revved the engine, with the wheels off the ground, then YES - it WILL snap on impact.  :confused2:

yep!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 24, 2014, 04:43:44 PM
Bo & Luke never had a problem.  :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 24, 2014, 04:58:06 PM
Quote from: SixGun on April 24, 2014, 04:43:44 PM
Bo & Luke never had a problem.  :dontknow:

then you never watched it in slow motion  :tongue3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: The War Wagon on April 24, 2014, 05:08:40 PM
Hey - WATCH that chase scene in "Marked for Death," when Steven Seagal & David Keith are chasing the Jamaican Voodoo Posse in the BMW 535.  When they make that leap out of the park, the rear axle on the BMW clearly breaks - you can see the right rear tire seriously canted inwards at the top.

Seagal & Keith make the leap in the RC, and it DOESN'T break!!!  It BOUNCES, but it don't break!  ;D
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 24, 2014, 05:21:39 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 24, 2014, 04:58:06 PM
then you never watched it in slow motion  :tongue3:

Bo & Luke never had a problem but maybe Warner Bros did. 

http://m.mentalfloss.com/article.php?id=30999

Check out the bonus link.  I posted several like this in the YouTube thread.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 24, 2014, 05:36:53 PM
Truly a Dukes of Hazard junkyard:

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m5j2gzD6Cu1qflydqo1_1280.jpg
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 26, 2014, 09:51:34 PM
 :icon_scratch:  I might be going crazy here

I found some 3/4 ton axles 3.73 gears for 850.

Only issue? the front is coil spring from a 95.  that means I have to put new perch's on front and back and move shock mounts.  :icon_scratch:

I did that for the Mexico charger, I don't see why that would be a huge deal here.

Any opinions on this before I let go of the cash?  Of course this will just open the can from there... then I need new rims and that will also mean new tires. and I won't have lockers, but it will be a start. Also have to figure out the driveshaft u joints.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 26, 2014, 10:03:07 PM
someone help me here... but looking more I think dodge changed the driveshaft drop from passenger to driver side on the newer body style trucks?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on April 26, 2014, 10:28:11 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 26, 2014, 10:03:07 PM
someone help me here... but looking more I think dodge changed the driveshaft drop from passenger to driver side on the newer body style trucks?

You are correct, I believe the later model dodges are driver side. Im not positive though.

I think going to late model dodge axles would be more work then its worth except on the rear. Rear axles are easy. Front axles can become a pain in the butt. I will keep a look out but $850 seems a little high if its a Dana 44 front. Again Im not familiar with the later model dodge axles.

I have My old M880 Axles that need some work, But Im willing to part with them if your interested.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 26, 2014, 10:37:38 PM
yeah I recall you saying that, I just don't know how much work or $$ is involved to make them usable.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 26, 2014, 10:49:31 PM
well found a set of dana 60's pass drop, 4.10 gears and it says lockers for $800... bad part? they are in the middle of OK!!!!!!!!!!

not sure I can make a trip that far north any time soon. not to mention the time and gas to do so.

Maybe I need to call Dave and see what he has in stock?  :icon_scratch:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on April 26, 2014, 10:59:21 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 26, 2014, 10:49:31 PM
well found a set of dana 60's pass drop, 4.10 gears and it says lockers for $800... bad part? they are in the middle of OK!!!!!!!!!!

not sure I can make a trip that far north any time soon. not to mention the time and gas to do so.

Maybe I need to call Dave and see what he has in stock?  :icon_scratch:

A stock pair of Dana 60's for $1000 or less is a good deal. anything over that there should be some work done to them to increase the value. there is a dana 60 in houston stock late 70's external hubs that he want $1500. He is nuts. Horrible price te axle is only worth 700-800 maybe.

I will keep looking. But yes the axles I have need a lot of love. But the price would be cheap to reflect the work needed.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 27, 2014, 03:58:06 PM
He could hand them off to the Dodge Whisperer and you could pick them up when you do your Sea World trip.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ernestgonzales78@gmail.com on April 27, 2014, 07:59:50 PM
Y'all are having way to much fun. Ryan I break my axle shafts and u joints just able every time I go out. Lol
And I have 35"
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 27, 2014, 08:40:15 PM
yeah but that's on a Fix Or Repair Daily, so it's expected  :laughing4:

I don't mind replacing the shafts and keep going, but if I am going to do that I need spare parts and I am not putting an open carrier back in (seals leaking so that means I have to replace seals again) so if I am going to spend that much $$ might as well check out all the options

I do want to go to 35" so I won't have to depend on the skinny pedal so much  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 27, 2014, 09:06:17 PM
Didn't that truck have bigger tires when you bought it?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 27, 2014, 09:19:06 PM
at one point they were bigger, but balled 33's are not a lot to look at  :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 27, 2014, 09:30:47 PM
What size rims do you have?  I have 15x8's with my 33's.  That's minimum size for them.  Most guys use 15x10. Some plain steel wheels only run about $50-60 a pc.

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 27, 2014, 09:36:10 PM
not sure, the factory al I am running right now are prob 15x7, I have no clue what the steel wheels that it had are.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 30, 2014, 10:16:24 AM
decisions decisions.

Eric found a 86 3/4 ton that is in need of being parted out with good axes. its 1k

I found a pair of 44hd/ 60 axles with 4.10 gears and lockers from a 71 international for 800.

The 71 has drums all around so that would have to be fixed, but not sure which would be the better choice.

the 86 would be easier to swap, but not the better gears and lockers.

It sounded like the lockers were from the factory, so I don't know if thats bad for them being so old?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 30, 2014, 11:28:20 AM
if it didn't come off a 75-93 dodge you don't want 'em....and even then some of those are questionable too  :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 30, 2014, 11:33:11 AM
ah good to know.

check your pm and give me a call  :dance:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ryan on May 01, 2014, 03:28:02 PM
testing
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on July 11, 2014, 08:34:47 PM
Hey Ryan, can you post some pics on how you did your front receiver hitch.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 14, 2014, 09:52:40 AM
I can, but I have been told I did it wrong lol.

I just drilled 4 holes in the crossmember between the frame. It needs a bit more support so it does not bent or twist the cross member.

The new axles came with a new front bumper... it has a spot for a winch but I like my cradle, so I guess I will just move that mount onto the bumper if possible.

If not then I guess I will fix my mount sell the bumper and leave it as is.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 04, 2014, 09:20:27 PM
Looks like I am getting a weekend scheduled to play at Noah's.

Hopefully that will get me mostly in order for the run in Oct.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on September 12, 2014, 12:00:59 PM
Did you come up with a plan with Noah to Knock out the axles? OCT is quickly approaching!

FYI- The 36 Tires and Wheels that are currently on the donor truck are Mine  ;D  ! Noah stole them for rollers  ::)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 13, 2014, 08:14:11 AM
last weeknd in Sept I am heading up for a 4 day weekend/ work my ass off

so far I have :

axles
front frame bushing mounts from Jungle
tires
front bumper

I think that should be enough to get us going lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on September 13, 2014, 09:17:26 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on September 13, 2014, 08:14:11 AM
last weeknd in Sept I am heading up for a 4 day weekend/ work my ass off

so far I have :

axles
front frame bushing mounts from Jungle
tires
front bumper

I think that should be enough to get us going lol

:thumbsup: Should be a cool ride!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 21, 2014, 06:19:40 PM
Noah just confirmed the doner has a 4.09 front axle !!!!!

better axles and gears, this is good

only bad news is I was told I need to leave at 4 am to miss the bad traffic lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on September 21, 2014, 06:45:43 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on September 21, 2014, 06:19:40 PM
Noah just confirmed the doner has a 4.09 front axle !!!!!

better axles and gears, this is good

only bad news is I was told I need to leave at 4 am to miss the bad traffic lol

That will help those big tires!  :steeringwheel: :steeringwheel: :steeringwheel: :steeringwheel:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 21, 2014, 08:19:40 PM
What size tires is Ryan going to run? :017:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 21, 2014, 11:59:53 PM
33" .... 2 almost new and 2 eh.... all 4 with rim were free
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 22, 2014, 05:03:10 AM
Looking at Eric and Noah's tires, I thought maybe you were going the same....huge!  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 22, 2014, 06:41:00 AM
maybe someday, but right now going the free route lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on September 22, 2014, 06:55:53 AM
Quote from: SixGun on September 22, 2014, 05:03:10 AM
Looking at Eric and Noah's tires, I thought maybe you were going the same....huge!  :laughing7:

I'm only running 37" Tires.......... Maybe I should make the 44" off the M880 Fit on the RC  :icon_scratch:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 22, 2014, 03:41:22 PM
Looks like they would fit easily with a little trimming.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on September 22, 2014, 04:26:34 PM
Quote from: SixGun on September 22, 2014, 03:41:22 PM
Looks like they would fit easily with a little trimming.

Hell in that case maybe I should just take the Axles , Wheels, Tires, and 440 out of the M880 and put it into the RC  ::)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 22, 2014, 04:36:32 PM
Just build both. :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 22, 2014, 04:40:08 PM
I found Eric a running 400 big block.. thats perfect to slide into his truck.  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on September 22, 2014, 04:53:33 PM
I think I'm going to stick with the ole 318 for a awhile, Its easier on the ole drivetrain.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 22, 2014, 05:01:31 PM
and suspension  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 22, 2014, 08:16:15 PM
Thing I like about a 318 is they run forever and are a dime a dozen.  Run it till it dies and then throw another one in. Perfect scenario for a trail rig.  Should have done that with the 76 RC and prolly been running by now.  Just too far in to go back now. But... I know I'll be a happy sumbich when its all said and done though.   :headbang:

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 24, 2014, 09:59:51 AM
Truck is on the trailer and tools are mostly packed and ready to load.

I need to work on the trailer brakes a bit more.. always nice to be able to stop  :laughing7:

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 25, 2014, 10:35:18 PM
Well, Ryan invited me along for his Lil trip to Troxell land.  Its Dodgimania in there.

I got to Noah's shop late in the day and they already had the HD 44 taken out and apart from the donor truck. It was from an 85 W250.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 25, 2014, 11:08:19 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/25/f3775bd8c6ea5bd6fc57c83a4395eeac.jpg)

work has begun
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 26, 2014, 10:20:19 PM
well slow progress today.

got the old axle out and got the new axle all torn down to clean up and inspect. tomorrow I will change u joints and put it back together. I also want to work on installing Jungle's frame bushings for the front
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 26, 2014, 10:20:37 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/26/b49acd22f945d4525a8926147a58cb61.jpg)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 26, 2014, 11:35:27 PM
 :laughing4:  poof....where'd it go?

We took a little trip to pick up not 1, not 2, but 3 D60's from a super nice guy Codi near Pipe Creek. He had a crew cab and poptop TD.  I think he had a 203 hatchery cause they were sprouting all over the place and he was trying to give them away. Lol

It was dark and raining when we got there so no pics yet.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 27, 2014, 08:03:23 PM
Ryan getting after the 44HD front.  Long 3 days but the is nearly done.  One more day to get the back done.

Noah supervising the build.   :laughing7:

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on September 27, 2014, 08:28:23 PM
that thing looks good. so clean looking compared to what we have up here. i went to check out 4x4KLOWN's newest purchase today and i think here over spent to get a truck and didn't quite thoroughly inspect the rust damage to the cab just because he wanted to get back into a first gen so badly. i hate the rust we have to deal with up here.

someone has to supervise. this guy is usually my supervisor lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 27, 2014, 09:07:42 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/27/28318b451de5264b3714469ef9ef80c5.jpg)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 27, 2014, 11:18:17 PM
so long day but the front is back together. we have all the parts and the rear should go much faster. the axle u joints were a major PITA... I think it took almost an hour just to remove the c clips lol

the rear we are using has some broken spider gears so we are just going to weld it all up until I have funds for a real locker.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 28, 2014, 09:31:32 PM
Long productive weekend at Troxell automotive. Ryan's 8 lug axles are in and drive able.  Still needs a few things to make it 100% but it did drive out and load itself under its own power. Heck, Eric and I swapped in a front factory Warn bumper for him and Noah welded a receiver under it. Ryan didn't like the chrome but everyone there seemed to really like it. Since he is going to use a cradle mount winch, the factory winch cradle will become the recovery gear storage. 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on September 29, 2014, 09:36:35 AM
Excellent work this weekend  :great: 
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on September 29, 2014, 09:58:38 AM
was a very long weekend... got home about midnight, but made it home safe.

now a lot more work to do still.

I am curious as to how our "lincoln locker" is going to work out.

Thanks for everyones help.  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on September 29, 2014, 10:12:13 AM
I believe it actually was a Miller locker. :laughing7:

You need to post a pic of those HUGE rear drums.  They were awesome!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 07, 2014, 09:10:23 PM
Found some rims that will fit with 285/75/16's already on them.... $275 for all 4, I figured that was decent enough
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 07, 2014, 09:10:53 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/07/e0c4629a070437bd8032082227f34767.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/07/b089472a4c40278bbc407b5251f0bd72.jpg)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 07, 2014, 09:55:35 PM
Those will work well and keep your axles happy  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 07, 2014, 10:18:29 PM
the fact they fit the axles is a big plus lol, only down side is now I have

4x Chevy 8 lug that don't fit a d60 with mix tires
4x dodge al 5 lug with 31's
1x 16.5 from Eric
2x 16 from white 85 (1 will be a spare tire)
1x dodge 5 lug spare
4 x dodge al wheels no tires

and I have to store all these things some where... my garage is not that big!!!!! lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 07, 2014, 10:25:46 PM
Just throw that 16.5 in the back of the RC and I will get it back from you at hidden falls. I'm pretty sure that tire on it was made in the late 70's early 80's  :o


The Green machine might get a few more miles out of it :lol_hitting:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on October 08, 2014, 03:33:48 PM
I've got a set of 31" tires with a whole Lotta tread that are dry rotted to hell that need destroying.  I might take them to HF.  Too much tread to throw away and too dry rotted to be safe on highway. They came off the 76 RC.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 08, 2014, 04:19:10 PM
Plan to put the new rubber under the truck tonight and work on the brakes to finish those up.

The drive shaft finally made it to the shop today, it should be ready tomorrow  :13:

They asked me if I wanted it balanced  :icon_scratch:  um yeah I would like to be able to use it to drive with.  :headband:

Curious to see how it does with the rear going and good tires.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 08, 2014, 08:35:24 PM
Quote from: SixGun on October 08, 2014, 03:33:48 PM
I've got a set of 31" tires with a whole Lotta tread that are dry rotted to hell that need destroying.  I might take them to HF.  Too much tread to throw away and too dry rotted to be safe on highway. They came off the 76 RC.

If you don't want them and just want them to be destroyed, ask lance if he wants them. Im sure he would be more then happy to burn them up and actually have 4 matching tires on his RC  :laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 08:49:25 PM
Well I went and did it now  :crybaby2:

The wheels and tires I bought were suppose to be Dodge wheels... after trying and they did not fit I looked... FORD!!!!!  :angry5:

I went back today and was trying to find something that would work.

Well I found something but can't say that they will work right now lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 08:51:31 PM
so I now own a set of H2 wheels with 35" micky thompson's on them. the tires are in really good shape for the price I paid.


I figure I will have to run with the wheels I already had (started working to make them fit the rear axle) this go round. Then I will start working on clearance issues for the 35's. I don't care to hack it all up, so I might try to play/ learn more on welding and stretch the fenders  :headband:

If the pic of it rolled up next to the truck shows anything... it should look awesome!!! My friend tells me I need to paint it flat black now lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 09, 2014, 09:01:44 PM
H2 Hummer Wheels are very popular and give you the opportunity to run a 17" tires which are offering a much better selection then 16.5 and 16.

I've always like the looks of those rims and remind me of a modern version of Hurricane wheels. Plus they are much much much lighter then H1 Hummer Bead Locks. You will have good luck with those for sure.

I say run them and let the trail clearance the fenders for you, or we can have a SawSall Party at the Camp Site  :laughing4:

Just wait till you see how much I cut off my fenders  ;D
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 09:03:15 PM
lol I am going to put them on and see what it looks like before I decide.

I can always trailer down both sets. I can say 1 thing.. these babies will sing a song on the high way... I can't imagine doing 70 with them lol.

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 09, 2014, 09:06:11 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 09:03:15 PM
lol I am going to put them on and see what it looks like before I decide.

I can always trailer down both sets. I can say 1 thing.. these babies will sing a song on the high way... I can't imagine doing 70 with them lol.

So How many Set of tires have you bought for this thing now?  :laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 09:10:44 PM
that I currently have? 1 (i returned/traded the others)

but I also was given a set with 2 good / 2 bad tires on them.


and you asked the wrong question... its more like how many u joints have I bought for this thing... as that is what started this whole mess anyways... if I had not done that I would still be doing 5 lug and saying  well the 31's are small but they are new and gonna get used before I replace them. lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 09, 2014, 09:14:12 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 09:10:44 PM
that I currently have? 1 (i returned/traded the others)

but I also was given a set with 2 good / 2 bad tires on them.


and you asked the wrong question... its more like how many u joints have I bought for this thing... as that is what started this whole mess anyways... if I had not done that I would still be doing 5 lug and saying  well the 31's are small but they are new and gonna get used before I replace them. lol

Just Blame Noah, He is a bad influence.......
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 09:17:43 PM
hard to blame him on the 35's since he told me multiple times to not get 35's lol

I figure he already started a pool on how long it will take me to break this d44hd with 35's on it  :laughing7:


but its gonna look way cool when its done... I have to say that for sure  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 09, 2014, 09:24:32 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 09:17:43 PM
hard to blame him on the 35's since he told me multiple times to not get 35's lol

I figure he already started a pool on how long it will take me to break this d44hd with 35's on it  :laughing7:


but its gonna look way cool when its done... I have to say that for sure  :13:

With a locked rear end and being easy on the pedal, you should be ok.......... Just be "Easy" on the Pedal  :tongue3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 09, 2014, 09:30:19 PM
well thats the hope, with bigger and better axles and tires I can be easy on the skinny pedal  :dance:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on October 09, 2014, 10:56:13 PM
Do Hummer wheels require spacers?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 09, 2014, 11:49:48 PM
Quote from: SixGun on October 09, 2014, 10:56:13 PM
Do Hummer wheels require spacers?

H1 Military Hummer Beadlocks do require spacers or recenters
H2 Civilian Hummer Rims do not
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on October 11, 2014, 10:56:56 PM
the h1 rims look so mean tho. 4x4klown on RCC had them on his old truck with 37's.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 12, 2014, 02:30:33 AM
Wow in that picture he is running re-centered 12-bolt hummer rims in the front and Not re-centered 24 bolt Hummer rims in the rear....
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on October 12, 2014, 11:39:43 AM
i never really notice till you mentioned it. both styles still look pretty good and mean to me
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 13, 2014, 02:32:38 PM
So here is what it looks like. thats with me standing on the trailer looking down. I need to get another straight one.


(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/13/7e019d57c9c06c1a543522d7c209f0f1.jpg)

The fenders just barely clear now, so when its stressed it will rub. I plan to cut the front a bit and see what the back looks like.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/13/39792c2fb95a4bdb28b578e7108ebc66.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/13/b91d69bf9cf4a3a2497368f848572053.jpg)

Major issues with the pitman arm  :crybaby2:  ordered some spacers from rough country and hoping that does the trick.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/13/d9e4fa12bd84645603b6e9eb2ecd4ff4.jpg)

here is the huge drum Richard was talking about... its crazy.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/13/e325962e4446e4de9ee91dc5d15e16a5.jpg)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 14, 2014, 03:06:09 PM
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 15, 2014, 06:37:44 PM
got the rear driveshaft all together and in. took it for a slow drive. something is making noise on the passenger side. ran out of time but I will have to jack it up and rotate the wheels see if I can duplicate it.

wheel spacers came in too, but waiting on the new lugs now

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/15/9121f1625c65f06310de987ab810187b.jpg)
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 16, 2014, 06:01:57 AM
Did you notice a difference with the gears and locker?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on October 16, 2014, 08:06:33 AM
Those wheels look great. Good score  :great:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 16, 2014, 08:22:58 AM
it was making a bad noise so I did not get to try it out much. it was more of an idle drive.... trying to practice not giving it gas  :evil6:

the locker chirps like crazy lol  granted the front axle is locked too so that did not help any.

I need to figure out what was making the sound on the back driver side now. Hopefully more time tonight to play.

I made my to do list, and its crazy long
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 16, 2014, 08:35:05 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 16, 2014, 08:22:58 AM
it was making a bad noise so I did not get to try it out much. it was more of an idle drive.... trying to practice not giving it gas  :evil6:

the locker chirps like crazy lol  granted the front axle is locked too so that did not help any.

I need to figure out what was making the sound on the back driver side now. Hopefully more time tonight to play.

I made my to do list, and its crazy long

Whats the noise sound like? Brakes? Axle?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 16, 2014, 11:03:00 AM
sounded like an axle, but it could be a drum brake issue.

it was from the passenger side and only happened every once in a while, like during a rotation of the shaft.

I am going to double check the ujoints and straps tonight and see if I can figure anything out.

Called rough country and they are overnighting the correct ubolts for the rear axle so I will have them tomorrow.

I don't think it was / is the ubolts but they do need to get fixed. The springs are seated correctly and good.


I told Noah I am a little worried about the short drive shaft. I had to stretch it out to install it, but I am hoping its just from the driveshaft shop compressing it before putting the dust cover on it. Think I might get ubolts for the other driveshaft and bring it just in case  :laughing7:

I still need to do wheel spacers and some more work on the front bumper... on and I have decided I need to replace my hatch. not sure it will happen this trip but that hatch is crazy heavy (like made of lead) and I thought something was wrong. I moved the hatch off the 92 I parted out the other day... way lighter. I figure some spray paint to go from green to white should work  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 17, 2014, 02:30:11 PM
Did you figure out the noise yet?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 17, 2014, 03:53:51 PM
no I played with the winch and my new synthetic rope  :headbang:

I had to fix my battery setup and what not... have that case battery going it was low on water but got it going.

I plan to have a day of wheel spacers, brakes, and noises tomorrow.

I will keep you posted on what I figure out.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 17, 2014, 11:38:28 PM
So worked on it some. Jacked up the rear and threw it in N.... turned the wheels and did not hear any sounds?  :icon_scratch:

While it was up I threw the spacers on the back wheels. The lugnuts came in today.

The spacers are nice and I think make it look good. I could not resist myself and grabbed some paint to clean up the hubs a bit.

I Also got the ubolts in from Rough Country and have those installed. It was too late to test so that will be in the AM.

I also got my winch rope installed and manually spooled back up. I will need to "pre-tension" it as I think its called with the synthetic rope.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 05:54:42 AM
Those rims sure do look good  :thumbsup:

What size spacer did you end up going with?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 07:07:29 AM
2" spacers. and yeah I like how they look. hopefully all the bugs get out and it works as desired
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 07:45:52 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 07:07:29 AM
2" spacers. and yeah I like how they look. hopefully all the bugs get out and it works as desired

I'm Pretty sure the majority of us will be taking it easy at first to work out any bugs on the trail, So I wouldn't worry.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 07:47:39 AM
"take it easy" what is this phrase you speak of ???? lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 07:58:36 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 07:47:39 AM
"take it easy" what is this phrase you speak of ???? lol

Its a strange idea of being lite on the pedal, Slow on the trail, Cautious with your rig, and aware of the sounds its making. Its a very difficult process to use but I think we will manage.

By "We" I mean..... Me.... Because I think we've all proven that you and Noah don;t understand being lite on the pedal.  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on October 18, 2014, 09:00:25 AM
Its the Danger Dave syndrome. Its catching on. 

That's how legends are born.   :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 09:37:41 AM
Quote from: SixGun on October 18, 2014, 09:00:25 AM
Its the Danger Dave syndrome. Its catching on. 

That's how legends are born.   :headbang:
Reckless Ryan!!  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 10:24:56 AM
Noah is who keeps yelling at me to use the skinny pedal  :violent1:

I have all the wheel spacers in and trimmed the front  part of the fender, I think the rear is going to have to be trimmed shortly. Testing the clearing issues now.

Also got the rear ubolts in... those shackles/ shock mounts had 1/2" holes so I had to drill them out but all good now  :13:

Also checked my ubolts again and they are good. So about to do a test drive.

My list is still way too long, but its getting shorter.

I wonder if some of the noise I was hearing was because the front axles were locked in, even though it was not in 4wd? its unlocked now so we will see.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 10:55:34 AM
well at the store getting gas. definitely need more clearance for turns... need to straighten my steering wheel too

I need to check the air pressure because man it's like riding a bucking bronco lol

and definitely feel the bump steer
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 11:52:18 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 10:55:34 AM
well at the store getting gas. definitely need more clearance for turns... need to straighten my steering wheel too

I need to check the air pressure because man it's like riding a bucking bronco lol

and definitely feel the bump steer

What about the Noise? Figure it out?

The locked rear end will also affect your ability to steer.

I would run your tires anywhere from 20-30 PSI, That seems to be a good non-bead lock pressure. Hell  I run that on my bead-locks because I have cut down the inserts yet!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 11:54:06 AM
I don't know what the noise was, but it's gone now and I did several things so one of them fixed it.

yeah I noticed the rear locker a lot while turning. but I heard the rubbing as well lol

that and I need to find my old steering stabilizer or buy s new one
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 11:58:32 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 11:54:06 AM
I don't know what the noise was, but it's gone now and I did several things so one of them fixed it.

yeah I noticed the rear locker a lot while turning. but I heard the rubbing as well lol

that and I need to find my old steering stabilizer or buy s new one

FYI- If the steering is really bad all a steering stabilizer is, is a band aid to a larger problem. I would go through all the steering components first to make sure everything is good and tight.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 12:03:24 PM
good and tight? it's all oem 1985 parts lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 12:29:49 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 12:03:24 PM
it's all oem 1985 parts lol

There is your first problem......... A stabilizer isn't going to fix that, but rather cover it up until its worse.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 12:55:45 PM
don't look at me...Noah said it was good... or was that good enough? lol

I have some good tie rod ends I will swap over later today and see how that does. not touching ball joints and unsure about the pitman arm
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 01:07:04 PM
A Steering Stabilizer may help out the issue of larger tires, but if there is actually something wrong with the steering then it will simply cover it up. I don;t think you have anything to worry about since its a trail truck and a bad weather truck.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 01:23:59 PM
we will find out... I would not want to do 70 mph in it anymore lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 01:33:31 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 01:23:59 PM
we will find out... I would not want to do 70 mph in it anymore lol

How is the clearance on the front tire now?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 18, 2014, 05:54:50 PM
the front is fine after a small tweak, the back is gonna need some work.

the pitman arm is great with the spacers
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on October 19, 2014, 09:04:59 AM
Quote from: ProjectM880 on October 18, 2014, 11:58:32 AM
FYI- If the steering is really bad all a steering stabilizer is, is a band aid to a larger problem. I would go through all the steering components first to make sure everything is good and tight.

It needs 2 steering stabilizers.... maybe .....  :tard:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on October 19, 2014, 09:08:23 AM
Quote from: ProjectPW on October 19, 2014, 09:04:59 AM
It needs 2 steering stabilizers.... maybe .....  :tard:

And this is the guy I pay to work on my my rig ladies and gentlemen..........  :breakcomp:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 19, 2014, 05:06:01 PM
well he is smarter than you think... he said don't worry because he knew it would be a pita to get the old tie rods off.... I will let you know if I get it done before the trip.

the pins broke off so I guess I have to try and drill it out
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 22, 2014, 10:29:44 PM
got the pins drilled out and after a lot of elbow grease the old bolts off.

I bit more work and the old tie rods finally gave way and came out.

Here I thought I would be cleaver... just swap out the whole complete unit from the 91 that is already aligned and has almost brand new problem solver tie rods.... done it before between the 92 and 91 and it worked great.  :violent1:

Guess what... there is a difference between either 44 and 44hd or a 85 dana 44 and a 90's dana 44. the 85 bar is a good 1-2" shorter.

Yeah that does not work at all. I had to then break everything loose, swap tie rod ends and put it back together.

Now I know my toe is all jacked up, but figure I will get some help and get it close when we arrive onsite.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on October 23, 2014, 09:04:32 AM
Who would have guessed?   :icon_scratch:

At least you got it back together.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 23, 2014, 09:05:49 AM
I still need to clearance the rear of the front fender, and tighten the front bumper... but other than that I think I am ready.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on October 27, 2014, 12:15:02 PM
We were talking about mounting plates for spare tires at HF.  Here's a link to RuffStuff.  HD hardware.  Nice armored diff covers too.  IF you do go with the diff cover, I suggest spending a few bucks more for recessed bolts.  Worth the few extra bucks imo.

http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/BUMPER.html

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on January 09, 2015, 07:03:06 PM
Whats the Latest on the trail Rig??

Whats next on the list of modifications ?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on January 11, 2015, 08:48:18 PM
Well just today it finally made it back to the house. It has been sitting out at my friends farm near stephenville. It took a few tries to get fuel loaded, but once it did it started right up. I was happy since it has sat for 2-3 mo without much going on and the batteries were still going (one of them being the case battery from the parts truck).

So now its sitting in the driveway, I have to figure out if it can even still fit in the garage... if not I guess I will pull heads outside, but thats not preferred.

Since it has been raining I had to drive the truck out to the road then load it on the trailer. Dirt road to farm was bad. I was all over the road and almost got stuck once. Then getting it on the trailer I could not do it, back tires were spinning and front did nothing, I went from 4H to 4L and tada walked right up. So apparently I need to look into my 4H on the transfer case?

So list right now is:

Front bumper - finish bolting and paint
rear  bumper - finish welding and paint
engine - new cam and heads - new radiator
Find new driver door and replace
also need to get a few parts from Jungle and do some more suspension mods.

I also would like to try to work on the steering, so if  :laughing4: if I have some extra cash I found a place to get a better steering gearbox and pump to try and help, along with new ball joints etc etc. I don't think I have room from x-over steering yet.

I think thats more than enough of a list.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on January 11, 2015, 09:07:28 PM
You've got a big list ahead of you!

That's half the fun  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 02, 2015, 09:18:53 AM
Well I ordered parts for the engine this weekend.

New gaskets and seals, new bolts. New Timing chain set. Already have the new cam. I will "borrow" the radiator from the 91, as it does not need it right now.

If I can get the weather to cooperate just a little I will pull it out of the back yard and get into it soon.

I figure it will be a 2 weekend job just because of having to get the heads rebuilt.

Now to figure out the 4wd issue  :icon_scratch:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 08:29:23 AM
Parts are inbound, I have a top end gasket set, and a few other small things. The rest will show up in the next few days.  :dance:

I was talking to Jungle about getting the front drop hanger that would let me use some cheby springs in the future and give me another 2" lift which I need with the 35's... he had to go show me his new bumper he is making that has the drop hanger/ winch mount/ recover points all mixed into 1 nice looking bumper.

I already have a bumper, and I use a cradle winch... but man its tempting because it looks so dang good  :icon_scratch:

I have not decided yet, I know I should not do it because I don't need to spend the money... but it would look sooo cool  :13:

Been trying to figure if I could get 150 - 200 out of my bumper I have?

Plus it would be another long weekend at Noah's to install... if he allowed. :laughing7:

here is the pic
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 03, 2015, 10:25:55 AM
Jim's bumper is a sweet setup. Your current setup is cool too.  Some of that gator liner or whatever the heck Noah put on his would give it a meaner look than chrome. Still like the tool box idea you had also for the cradle.  More of a classic look. Of course you wouldn't have the stinger but.....???

How was the ride in your RC on the trails.  Too stiff or too soft?  Original springs or the rough country?  I forget which is which with so many builds going on.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 11:21:16 AM
yeah that's the hard part, I have a decent setup now.

I have NOS Rod Hall springs up front that gave me about a 2" lift but they are stiff

rear has 6" rough country and they do pretty good

now on the road it feels a little funny, but think that's more the tires :evil6: :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 03, 2015, 11:34:18 AM
I asked because you mentioned wanting to add 2" of lift to the front.  I have some add-a-leaf springs Rancho RS50212 for the front that I never used.  I wouldnt add it to a lifted pack though.  I think with your truck, you're on that fine line of breaking from street and going completely offroad. Even more reason to finish the other Ramcharger for street use.  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 03, 2015, 12:16:27 PM
Quote from: SixGun on March 03, 2015, 11:34:18 AM
I asked because you mentioned wanting to add 2" of lift to the front.  I have some add-a-leaf springs Rancho RS50212 for the front that I never used.  I wouldnt add it to a lifted pack though.  I think with your truck, you're on that fine line of breaking from street and going completely offroad. Even more reason to finish the other Ramcharger for street use.  :13:

That is what happens.... at some point you have to decide you want to drive it on the street or the trail.... I have essentially lost hope in driving mine on the street extensively  :017:c
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 02:49:44 PM
that would be why its sitting in the back yard with expired tags, inspection, and no insurance  :crybaby2:

It would have been nice to have with the bad weather, but then again... the rear locker would prob been interesting on the ice.  :confused2:

Its good as it is, just need to keep tweaking it and making it a better trail truck. someday I will get me another 4x4 for street use, right now I have too many 2wd's for that purpose.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 03, 2015, 03:34:53 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 02:49:44 PM
, right now I have too many 2wd's for that purpose.

I think you just answered your own question.  Lol
What about the other 4x4 Ramcharger for street use.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 08:57:57 PM
once its finished like I want? no way in Hell its going on the street in bad weather  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 03, 2015, 09:23:57 PM
Awwww...now that's no fun.   :tongue3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 09:30:03 PM
What I need to do is take a page from your book. I need "street tires and wheels" and off road tires and wheels.

That would go a long ways towards solving some of the issues. Then get a real locker.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 03, 2015, 09:37:15 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 09:30:03 PM
What I need to do is take a page from your book. I need "street tires and wheels" and off road tires and wheels.

That would go a long ways towards solving some of the issues. Then get a real locker.

Getting that canyon sport in your signature up and running would solve all your "on road" 4x4 issues  :tongue3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 09:43:30 PM
that goes back to Richard's question... and if I get it restored nice like I want... its not going to see ice and snow lol

It will have too much $$ sunk into it to do that. Guess that just means I need to buy another sometime soon  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 03, 2015, 09:47:02 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 09:43:30 PM
that goes back to Richard's question... and if I get it restored nice like I want... its not going to see ice and snow lol

It will have too much $$ sunk into it to do that. Guess that just means I need to buy another sometime soon  :evil6:

$$ not a good excuse... I bet it will be less than I have in the Top Hand  :steeringwheel: .... drive it like you have to fix it... i should do that  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 09:51:33 PM
it's not a great excuse but it's my excuse. It is a good excuse to buy another truck though  :laughing7:

would have been nice for the cummins to be 4x4, but at some point I will sell the 2003 and use that as an excuse to get another 4x4
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 03, 2015, 09:57:05 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 09:51:33 PM
it's not a great excuse but it's my excuse. It is a good excuse to buy another truck though  :laughing7:

would have been nice for the cummins to be 4x4, but at some point I will sell the 2003 and use that as an excuse to get another 4x4

The circle of Dodge life goes on  :035:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 03, 2015, 10:18:39 PM
what's that old saying? can't have too much of a good thing?

sounds about right. all mine have clean titles, so that's a good thing I. my book
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 10, 2015, 10:33:10 AM
Well if it will stop raining long enough to let the ground dry up some I need to pull it out of the back yard and into the garage so I can rip the heads off and take them to the machine shop for a rebuild.

I have everything else I need in I believe. Well I did not get new lifters or push rods yet... so I might order those.

Hopefully next week I can get it pulled into the garage. Should not take long to get the heads out, if I can do that wed... then maybe I can put it back together that weekend?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 16, 2015, 08:26:22 AM
Got back from out of town, back yard is still wet but no longer a swamp so I guess thats progress. Hoping to be able to get the truck out tuesday night so I can tear the heads down wed.

I realized last night I missed a few parts, so I also ordered new push rods and lifters, some spark plugs, wires, cap n rotor.

That should do everything I need.

I think I have about decided I am going to steal the headers and dual exhaust off the 91 while I am stealing the radiator  :laughing7:

The exhaust on the 93 is getting worse and actually broke some last outing. If I can get this one setup and welded good it should help a lot. Hoping the new cam and valves wake the truck up... it should sound a good bit better.

I also get to play with degreeing a cam, I have the tools just never done it yet.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 16, 2015, 08:40:53 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 16, 2015, 08:26:22 AM
Got back from out of town, back yard is still wet but no longer a swamp so I guess thats progress. Hoping to be able to get the truck out tuesday night so I can tear the heads down wed.

I realized last night I missed a few parts, so I also ordered new push rods and lifters, some spark plugs, wires, cap n rotor.

That should do everything I need.

I think I have about decided I am going to steal the headers and dual exhaust off the 91 while I am stealing the radiator  :laughing7:

The exhaust on the 93 is getting worse and actually broke some last outing. If I can get this one setup and welded good it should help a lot. Hoping the new cam and valves wake the truck up... it should sound a good bit better.

I also get to play with degreeing a cam, I have the tools just never done it yet.

Have you considered the fact that your heads will probably be cracked... just saying.. maybe not. but it is not uncommon on magnum's especially early ones  :violent1:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/DODGE-DAKOTA-JEEP-MOPAR-MAGNUM-WAGONEER-5-2-5-9-OHV-318-360-CYLINDER-HEADS-REMAN-/161085129018?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item25816c013a&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-NEW-DODGE-JEEP-MAGNUM-MOPAR-DURANGO-5-2-5-9-OHV-318-360-CYLINDER-HEADS-92-04-/171027563637?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27d2098475&vxp=mtr

I have bought from those guys before.... might cost a touch more than machine work but they are ready to go..... take your old heads off, put them in the box, put new heads on, give box of old heads to UPS man.... thats how I roll  :great:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 16, 2015, 08:43:43 AM
oh I have no doubt they are trash. A local machine shop will swap out with good heads using my valves and springs for $300.

I don't think I have found a set of heads I have taken off a magnum that have not been cracked.  :violent1:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 16, 2015, 09:01:34 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 16, 2015, 08:43:43 AM
oh I have no doubt they are trash. A local machine shop will swap out with good heads using my valves and springs for $300.

I don't think I have found a set of heads I have taken off a magnum that have not been cracked.  :violent1:

ok... sounds like you have a plan  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 16, 2015, 09:04:30 AM
If the magnum heads are prone to being cracked, what makes the new ones better? Or will it just be a continual cycle of problems.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 16, 2015, 09:10:22 AM
they normally crack between valves, and its worse in early years, but all years have issues.

I believe its just an ongoing problem, but if the head is repaired then I think it can last better? maybe?

Thats why the Mexico Ramcharger has aftermarket EQ heads. They don't have the same cracking issue, and are suppose to flow better. Not flow like aluminum heads, but man those things are not cheap.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 16, 2015, 09:24:36 AM
Quote from: SixGun on March 16, 2015, 09:04:30 AM
If the magnum heads are prone to being cracked, what makes the new ones better? Or will it just be a continual cycle of problems.

Any head will crack if given the opportunity... things like thermostats,water pumps, and radiators all should be replaced during a cylinder head replacement operation to prevent the same issue causing trouble again...  edit: FAN CLUTCH too!

The replacement new castings available for the Magnums supposedly have thicker decks around the valve seats
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 16, 2015, 09:47:19 AM
for the record, I already replaced the tstat and water pump and fan clutch... I will be replacing the radiator as well.

but yeah if I am going into the engine, I am going to replace a lot of stuff to avoid going back in.

as I mentioned:

double roller timing chain and gear set
upgraded cam
rebuild heads
new push rods
new lifters
new plenum gasket
new injectors - upgraded bosch 4 hole design
New intake bolts
new head bolts
new radiator
hooker headers
hooker dual exhaust kit with cats and glass packs


I think thats it, but thats more than enough to deal with.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 17, 2015, 08:37:07 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 16, 2015, 09:47:19 AM
for the record, I already replaced the tstat and water pump and fan clutch... I will be replacing the radiator as well.

but yeah if I am going into the engine, I am going to replace a lot of stuff to avoid going back in.

as I mentioned:

double roller timing chain and gear set
upgraded cam
rebuild heads
new push rods
new lifters
new plenum gasket
new injectors - upgraded bosch 4 hole design
New intake bolts
new head bolts
new radiator
hooker headers
hooker dual exhaust kit with cats and glass packs


I think thats it, but thats more than enough to deal with.

gonna be done in time? ... sounds like some serious surgery  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 17, 2015, 08:43:24 AM
I hope to have it all done this weekend... it's serious work but not too bad.

worst part will be the exhaust and welding... you know me and my welding skills lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on March 17, 2015, 12:15:05 PM
The trick to welding with a small welder or not having very much practice welding, is to just make lots of spot welds. It might not be real pretty but it will keep you from burning through the pipe.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 17, 2015, 12:33:40 PM
yeah burning through has never been my problem... I think the welder I have is too small. It might have to be a future upgrade.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 17, 2015, 12:36:10 PM
Practice practice practice ;)

What size welder do you have?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on March 17, 2015, 12:37:13 PM
just get some scrap pipe and practice on it. most of the time even the small welders work pretty good for basic stuff like exhausts. i used mine patch some exhaust just the other day. the welds were not pretty but they should hold for a while.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 17, 2015, 12:38:37 PM
not sure, its a small 208/220v harbor freight welder my dad let me borrow.

it has a knob for wire speed, and then 1/2 for power and a high/low for power.

Not a lot of configuration settings.

Granted I think if I had anyone give me a 5 min tutorial about how to weld it might make a difference lol

I am going to go youtube some here in a bit. maybe it will help.  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on March 17, 2015, 12:57:55 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 17, 2015, 12:38:37 PM
not sure, its a small 208/220v harbor freight welder my dad let me borrow.

it has a knob for wire speed, and then 1/2 for power and a high/low for power.

Not a lot of configuration settings.

Granted I think if I had anyone give me a 5 min tutorial about how to weld it might make a difference lol

I am going to go youtube some here in a bit. maybe it will help.  :13:

the problem may be you don't have the wire speed and heat set correctly. To much speed and the wire wont burn fast enough, to much heat and the wire will burn to fast.

If the arc is pulsing then your speed is to slow and not enough heat. If the arc is Popping alot then you have to much heat.

Play with it on some scrap metal. You want to be able to hold the mig gun about 1/2 inch from the metal and move at a stead pace with a solid arc.

Try making circle or half circle patterns while welding.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 17, 2015, 01:01:04 PM
It usually pops... so too much heat... I have some scrap metal to play with.  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on March 17, 2015, 01:06:05 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 17, 2015, 01:01:04 PM
It usually pops... so too much heat... I have some scrap metal to play with.  :13:

It think that's right, I'm so use to Arc Welding I forget on Mig. Noah is the Mig Master so he would be able to tell you for sure.

I usually just mess with the machine until it weld right  :tongue3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on March 17, 2015, 04:54:46 PM
is there a chart on it somewhere with recommended setting for certain thickness's of metal? i know mine has a chart and if you actually follow it the welder does seem to work fairly good. also try to avoid welding rust. make sure the area you plan on welding is fairly clean.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 17, 2015, 09:01:20 PM
well rain coming tomorrow and a hot day today, I figured  the ground was about as dry as it was getting. Still a few wet spots but not bad.

Got it out of the back yard, the batteries were a little unhappy but got it started up. I will need to charge them while its in the garage.

Now getting it into the garage, that was a trick, that locker does not like tight turns at all  :steering wheel:

I have marks all over the driveway now, but I got it in there. Hopefully tomorrow I can start tearing it down and get the heads to the shop. If they are not busy they can do a turn around and get them back to me sometime Saturday.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: taz_man440 on March 17, 2015, 10:55:06 PM
Anytime I do exhaust, I oxy-acetylene weld em.. All I have is an ac/dc stick machine.... haven't perfected thin yet... i can sure do the gorilla weld...
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 18, 2015, 08:33:29 AM
Yeah I always use some gas with the mig to help it out.

I am really glad I moved the truck last night... its raining here today. But with it in the garage I can start tearing it down soon.  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 19, 2015, 08:17:32 PM
well I thought I posted this the other night, but apparently it did not go through.

Last night I spent about 3.5 hrs working on breaking stuff down. Got the heads off and all that fun stuff.

I will stick with my side note that I HATE idiots. Idiots like someone that does not use exhuast bolts when they put an exhaust on and you have to fight to get a wrench up on top to get the bolts off the collectors.

So yeah heads are off now and at the machine shop to get fixed.

I had 2 blown head gaskets, and bad signs that say someone used some liquid sealer on it at some point in its past life.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 19, 2015, 08:25:22 PM
so today I worked a bit more, took the radiator out, moved the condenser  out of the way... took the fan off then the timing cover.

Timing cover is way dirty, going to be buying a parts cleaner tomorrow to help that out.

The inside is way dirty, and this thing had oil leaks all over the place.

The cap and rotor were not great looking, but could be worse. The inside of the dizzy needs some cleaning as well.

Where it gets interesting is the cam... I don't have all the lifters out yet, those are a huge PITA to remove... but yeah the cam is hurting.

I have to say, these old Dodges amaze me... 2 blown head gaskets... water passages with almost zero flow, and a cam that looks like that. Yet the truck idled good, ran around and did what it needed to do. I don't know many engines that could do that like these old Dodges.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 19, 2015, 08:26:14 PM
Here are the cam pics
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 19, 2015, 08:27:05 PM
the cylinders look decent I think
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 20, 2015, 08:33:16 AM
good progress...  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on March 21, 2015, 06:58:54 PM
that makes me never want to take apart my engine unless i blow it up. never know what you might find. at least i know i am driving a vehicle with a solid engine :laughing7:.

so do you think the heads will be cracked?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 22, 2015, 09:12:03 PM
Both heads were cracked... 1 had 1 crack, the other had 2 cracks.

They got backed up and did not get it all done, so should be ready monday.

I have been working to clean parts up and prep to get stuff back together.

I don't know how I lived before... I bought a parts washers and wow  life is SOOOOOO much better lol

It cleaned lots of the parts easily and quickly.

I also bought some new attachments for my air cutoff tool to help finish cleaning up gasket surfaces.

I recall the hours I have spent before cleaning up surfaces, and I have to say jobs are so much better when you have the right tools
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 22, 2015, 09:13:32 PM
So all the parts are now clean for starting to put it back together. I need to clean up the surfaces on the block then get started.

I also need to learn how to degree a cam lol

I have all the tools, just never done it so it shall be interesting.

I had wanted to get it all done and going this weekend, but other stuff (as always) came up and kept me busy but I still got some done.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 01, 2015, 12:38:49 PM
Man this has been harder than it needs to be lol.


Could not get the intermediate shaft out for the dizzy. ended up having to take the passenger head back off so I had room to pry it out.

It had a bunch of caked on junk. Parts washer make quick work of it though.  :13:

So now both heads are on, cam in, timing chain and cover on, all that good stuff.

Intake is ready to go in expect 1 small issue. I am trying to delete the EGR and I have not found a plug that fits the hole yet. Found a kit online but its 40 bux and who knows when it would get here. I might just run to a junk yard and try to pull one real quick. If they don't charge too much for it.

After the intake is back on it should go pretty good. But re-doing the exhaust will be a PITA... its always a PITA dealing with headers lol.

Hoping to figure something out to get the intake back on tonight. If I can get the intake on I should be able to get it buttoned up ready ton start minus the headers.

Then its just doing the fuel sync. Hope my old snap on tool is still up for the challenge.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 01, 2015, 05:52:07 PM
I just bought a new intake without egr, mine was missing the threads and extremely wallowed out, plus the aluminum intake is like 40 lbs lighter and makes more low end power.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 02, 2015, 08:54:32 AM
The magnums all have the "beer keg" aluminum intake already. I just grabbed one that was from 96 and newer and no egr. It was also missing a port for a water temp sensor, but I should be able to work around that.


I have the timing set, set the distributor, spark plugs and wires in and valve covers on.

Intake is clean and on. I finished cleaning the throttle body last night but I need to put to all back together. I installed the new injectors, reconnected most of the wires.

I have to finish re-attaching the accessory bracket, put the accessories on, some heater and radiator hoses, the radiator harmonic balancer and the headers.

It really slowed down on me at the end of this project, lots of little gotcha's but its coming together.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 02, 2015, 06:35:44 PM
Keep forgetting you have the magnum, cant wait to see it all finished. You bringin it to hidden falls?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 02, 2015, 06:38:09 PM
yeah it will be there one way or another  :laughing7:

so will the Mexico Ramcharger
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 02, 2015, 08:28:50 PM
Im interested in seein the mexico ramcharger too, just cuz ive never seen one. Im trying to put together a list of what spare parts i should bring just in case. You driving or towing?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 02, 2015, 08:54:40 PM
Heres a guide that might help.

http://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/4x4-trail-gear-camping-checklist/
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 02, 2015, 09:01:50 PM
Cool, thanks
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 02, 2015, 10:51:15 PM
Quote from: bullboy0852 on April 02, 2015, 08:28:50 PM
Im interested in seein the mexico ramcharger too, just cuz ive never seen one. Im trying to put together a list of what spare parts i should bring just in case. You driving or towing?

The mexico ramcharger will tow the 93, the 93 is long past what I would consider sane for a drive of that length to go off roading  :laughing7:

And the way we start playing out there.. if you play hard, you don't want to have to drive your truck back lol... but there are some like Richard that do.

And while you will get to see a mexico ramcharger, you cannot by any stretch of the imagination call it a typical mexico ramcharger. I have high customized and modified this one to my likings.  :13:  If there is time maybe we can do a ride. Most of the guys have seen and heard it (you can hear it quite a ways away), but not many have rode or drove it. When they do... its always fun to see their faces. Just imagine a 5300 lb truck doing 0-60 in 6 seconds and 1/4 mile in 14.2 ish. Then you can guess why  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 02, 2015, 11:06:43 PM
Lol awesome
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 03, 2015, 04:34:58 AM
Definately sounds like a hotrod.   :great:

I can't wait till he's tired of that motor and sells it to me.   :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 03, 2015, 07:59:08 AM
Quote from: SixGun on April 03, 2015, 04:34:58 AM
Definately sounds like a hotrod.   :great:

I can't wait till he's tired of that motor and sells it to me.   :laughing7:


Supercharger...   :035:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 03, 2015, 08:20:33 AM
the engine is built to take one, did that on purpose... but question is do I really need one?

I barely stay out of trouble as it is  :evil6:


What is also fun to think about... putting that engine into my little dakota that has 4.10 gears. 1/2 the weight, lower to the ground... that could be a lot of fun.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 03, 2015, 08:34:28 AM
Ah cmon, who doesnt need more horsepower?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 03, 2015, 08:22:11 PM
Quote from: bullboy0852 on April 03, 2015, 08:34:28 AM
Ah cmon, who doesnt need more horsepower?

MOPAR = More Power  :035:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 04, 2015, 12:10:24 AM
man it was a long day after work.

Had to start off by mixing and pouring a little cement for my storage building... it needed a ramp.

Then I started in on this sucker again.... sort of. I had to go over to the 91 and wrench a bit.

I first fixed the front axle which has been on stands since, well since whenever I stole the front springs for the 93.   :violent1:   the springs and axle is finally reattached as it should be.  :dance:

I then removed the radiator, exhaust, and headers.

I also cleaned up under the truck a bit. It was a side project but all in all it went good and I am happy with how it looks. It is very strange to see a "stock height" ramcharger with 31" tires vs the monster that is the 93  :evil6:

Once that was done I got to start on the 93. I first had to remove the old exhaust, which was a mess. I cut it in a few pieces and set it aside.

I got the headers on (stolen from the 91) and then got the main exhaust parts on. I have to put on the tail pipes... but first I have to get those out of the attic. That is not a high priority but would be nice.

And don't forget, with the hooker headers you have to remove the starter to get the driver side on.  :tard:

Once that was done I finished attaching the accessory bracket, heater hoses, radiator, condenser, tensioner pulley, etc.

I had a temp sensor break on me, so I have to fix that then I can put the alternator on and the belt. I am going to hold off on putting the fan on until I verify everything looks good and no leaks.

I have to fix a few vacuum lines and a few odds and ends and it should be ready to start after an oil change and some antifreeze.

I am happy I am a lot closer to finished on this as there are other things I need/ want to do before the trip.

I want to get the transfer case skid plate on, the old exhaust did not allow it to be installed (truck did not come with one) and so now i will be able to do so.

I need to fix the winch wires and battery setup... I had to borrow the front winch wires and have not fixed those back yet.

I would like to look at the transfer case, but not real hopeful on fixing that quickly.

I also have a new radio to install and hopefully the speakers will do ok.

now its bed time  :tongue3:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 04, 2015, 06:33:49 AM
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 04, 2015, 07:10:55 AM
and yes if the tail pipes make it on, they will be welded  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 08:44:44 AM
well I was making good progress.

Had the dizzy set and it was running. The fuel sync was giving me issues, but it was running.

then all of the sudden it would not start.... would not turn over. I got under it and worked it by hand, would not go... moved it back the other way... moved a little then stopped.  :icon_scratch:

played with it some, no progress. Took the spark plugs out and could not find anything, took the valve covers off. all looked normal. but I knew something was bad.. started taking rockers off... then I found this

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 08:54:33 AM
The #1 cylinder dropped a valve head.

Not sure how or why, but its gone. you can't pull the stem out all the way, so its either bent or still has some of it on... but something is bad in there. And I am betting the block is toast because it won't rotate all the way now.  :violent1:

I set the timing per FSM, and rotated the engine several times when it was assembled and did not hear any clearance issues. The cam only does .458/.467 lift... so its nothing radical. The cam is made it work with factory springs, but I wonder if the springs were weaker than spec and allowed valve float? just not sure.

So now I have 1.5 weeks to pull the engine out of the 91 and slam it into the 93. When it rains it pours.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 06, 2015, 09:17:56 AM
Ah man, sorry to hear that. Like you said prolly floated the valve. I wouldn't be certain til you pop the head but the block should be fine, prolly toasted the piston crown though and most likely roughed up the combustion chamber. But ive seen guys drop valves all the time on the dirt track, new piston, rod, bearings, valve setup, deburr and maybe rework the combustion chamber, worst case bore the cylinder. After that you should be good to go. If it stalled under high revs itll be worse obviously. What kinda material are your valves?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 10:11:51 AM
Just stock valves, stock everything.

called the machine shop, they said bring the head in and they will fix that, he was going to talk to his boss about if they could help with anything else.

Guess I will pull a head tonight and see how bad it is. but I am 99% sure it will nee bottom end work now.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 06, 2015, 10:32:15 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 10:11:51 AM
Just stock valves, stock everything.

called the machine shop, they said bring the head in and they will fix that, he was going to talk to his boss about if they could help with anything else.

Guess I will pull a head tonight and see how bad it is. but I am 99% sure it will nee bottom end work now.

Maybe not... you said it ran for 20 minutes and would not restart after you turned it off.... it may not be that bad.... I suspect the valve stuck open when you turned it off and it was due to incorrect fitment in the valve guide (got hot from being too tight).... When you went to restart the valve remained open it likely only caused minimal damage to the head, piston and block.... If it doesn't look that bad I would let the machine shop fix the head and run it  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 10:35:09 AM
your so positive with this engine and negative with the cummins.. how about we swap that around  :laughing7:

The head won't take 30 min to take off (give or take) so we will know tonight.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 06, 2015, 11:30:36 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 10:35:09 AM
your so positive with this engine and negative with the cummins.. how about we swap that around  :laughing7:

The head won't take 30 min to take off (give or take) so we will know tonight.

Well we already know the severe ramifications of interference in a combustion chamber... whether it be from hydro-locking or actual mechanical interference the consequences can be dire... I will condone reassembly of more or less easy to deal with worn out engines... those which are a royal PIA get the "treatment"  :035:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 11:39:04 AM
yeah the 5.2 is a lot simpler and easier engine.

I got a feeling I have a lot of engines that will be getting "the treatment" here soon. Unless I find that there is no damage to the cylinders this engine has to be pulled and gone through. 

I want to open it up just to see what it looks like at this point, I have already resigned to the fact that the engine is going to get swapped out.

Thursday will prove to be a long day swapping engines. The only saving grace is the 91 is already a good bit headed in that direction, no fenders or hood, no exhaust, no radiator. That means about 8-10 bolts I think and it should come right on out.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 06, 2015, 12:34:28 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 11:39:04 AM
yeah the 5.2 is a lot simpler and easier engine.

I got a feeling I have a lot of engines that will be getting "the treatment" here soon. Unless I find that there is no damage to the cylinders this engine has to be pulled and gone through. 

I want to open it up just to see what it looks like at this point, I have already resigned to the fact that the engine is going to get swapped out.

Thursday will prove to be a long day swapping engines. The only saving grace is the 91 is already a good bit headed in that direction, no fenders or hood, no exhaust, no radiator. That means about 8-10 bolts I think and it should come right on out.

That certainly helps to have the donor taken apart... keep it simple... bolt that puppy in and turn the key
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 06, 2015, 01:34:19 PM
simple is the plan  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 07, 2015, 08:03:11 AM
Most likely just bearings in the bottom, shouldnt even need to turn the crank
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 09, 2015, 09:11:39 AM
Well Tuesday I spent about 5 hours swapping motors. It was in, but not ready to crank.

Yesterday I spent a few more hours finishing stuff up. Took a few times to get it to start (silly little things like the ecu wanting a cam sync signal  :dontknow:). Its running and purring very nice... not like a kitten, a little too loud for that.. but not as loud as the mexico ramcharger.  :laughing7:

I have a few more details to work on with it, need to fix the transmission dip tube leak (new seal ordered), install the transfer case skid plate now that the exhaust is out of the way. And I have to finish attaching and securing the exhaust. I cleaned up the inspection plate for the tranny (way way dirty) so I have to put that back on too.


Whoever had worked on the tranny last time did a bad job, it was missing about 1/2 the bolts to the engine  :confused2:

and 1 engine mount was toast the other was not far off, so all that has been repaired as well.


Then I really need to take all the wheels off and double check the 2" spacers.

I think my main battery is toast (its from 2009) so I have to buy a new battery as well.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 09, 2015, 09:15:14 AM
had a few minutes and tore the driver side head off the other engine.

Block looks ok and turns freely now.

Pistons are all shot, especially #1


Not sure what happened or how, but something got screwed up with the timing apparently. Will look into it more later.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 09, 2015, 11:22:30 AM
Is that a hole in the piston? ???
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 09, 2015, 11:37:42 AM
it would be   :tard:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 09, 2015, 03:01:43 PM
I guess you could call that a "Hole in one." Piston no. 1 that is.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: bullboy0852 on April 09, 2015, 05:53:46 PM
Crap that sucks, was hopin it just got the one. How bad does the head look?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 09, 2015, 05:56:50 PM
head was not bad, needs all new valves and probably springs as well. next question is to figure out if it was valve float or bad timing
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 12, 2015, 06:56:04 PM
So its all back together and running good. got a few leaks fixed up and the inspection plate on.

Today I spent the day on the trailer. Good progress. Heck its even loaded and ready to throw the rest of the gear in and go. I just need a new battery now.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 12, 2015, 06:57:31 PM
pic
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 12, 2015, 09:49:45 PM
When are you planning to be at HF?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 12, 2015, 10:01:31 PM
leaving sometime Thursday

I have to say goodbye to a close friend this week, so it will be a good change of scenery
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 21, 2015, 09:16:24 AM
Well it was a fun weekend with some damage, but nothing too bad.

as Eric was saying this weekend we all made out some with trees at HF.

My front driver fender is a little worse for wear, and a few other little kisses from rocks.

Bronco Buster was pretty tight to get through but we all did good.

I managed to take a chunk of out my H2 wheels. but from what I can tell it is fixable so I will just have to get that done.

The other thing I broke is the crazy one... the bolt that holds the spring pack together... sheered right off  :confused2:

Not really sure when or how, but it did. So the driver side of the rear axle is moving around a lot. Makes it hard to drive it much. I caught it pretty quick and drove it back to camp and parked it for the remainder of the trip.

After we finished I headed up to Noah's place and dropped him there so its all ready for work when I get the chance.

I have decided to do the following upgrades (why fix the small issue that takes 2 hours or so to fix, when you can upgrade lots of stuff over 3-4 days lol)

Jungle front springs, front mount point with 2" lift
Jungle front springs, frame bushing upgrade with 2" lift
52" chevy front springs

Jungle rear shackle flip

I will also need to replace a good bit of bushings in the springs... Noah and Mr Troxell mentioned some new bushings they were eyeing... so we might go that route.

Once the lift is done I will probably have to get new shocks too... I will just have to measure and see what that looks like.

I will possibly have to do something with driveshafts as well. When we did the work with the d60 last time I had to shorten the factory shaft like 2"... with this lift I will probably need that back, but I have another driveshaft I can use so just swap it out  :headbang:

The front drive shaft will be the challenge. The saving grace is I have the 46RH with the overdrive unit which helps make the front driveshaft longer and have a better angle. I got a feeling I might have to get some upgraded flanges for the rear axle though.... its going to start getting some bad angles I bet.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 21, 2015, 09:16:48 AM
pics
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on May 05, 2015, 09:21:56 PM
Talking with Jungle to get the parts on their way.

Will be a major suspension upgrade.  :13:

Also will fix the rubbing issues and remove the front sway bar for better angles.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 01, 2015, 09:31:37 PM
Upgrades have arrived.

The springs will be in on the 12th.

I need to order new ubolts... I am sure there is something else.

Noah what tools/ tool parts do I need to bring? I am guessing cutting wheel's and grinder?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on June 01, 2015, 09:43:18 PM
For removing rivets and bushings, an air chisel works well.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 01, 2015, 09:48:23 PM
I need a better air chisel than what I got... and definitely need Noah's compressor. Mine would die if it had to do any more rivets lol.

I have done way too many on ball joints.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on June 02, 2015, 08:16:57 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on June 01, 2015, 09:48:23 PM
I need a better air chisel than what I got... and definitely need Noah's compressor. Mine would die if it had to do any more rivets lol.

I have done way too many on ball joints.

Actually my air hammer is about dead too... need a new one for this shenanigan for sure
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 02, 2015, 08:57:20 AM
http://www.amazon.com/Ingersoll-Rand-122MAXK-Barrel-Hammer/dp/B005MVB4SY/

something like that work? or you have another one in mind?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on June 02, 2015, 10:17:02 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on June 01, 2015, 09:31:37 PM
Upgrades have arrived.

The springs will be in on the 12th.

I need to order new ubolts... I am sure there is something else.

Noah what tools/ tool parts do I need to bring? I am guessing cutting wheel's and grinder?
looks like a bunch of great parts  :thumbsup:
Going to be lots of work!!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on June 02, 2015, 10:21:55 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on June 02, 2015, 08:57:20 AM
http://www.amazon.com/Ingersoll-Rand-122MAXK-Barrel-Hammer/dp/B005MVB4SY/

something like that work? or you have another one in mind?

I think i am going to go for the 118max model actually... I like the longer barrel... but it looks like the 122 may have a bit more violence dialed in @ 3500BPM vs @2500BPM .... In reality both are the best on the market  :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on June 02, 2015, 10:30:42 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on June 01, 2015, 09:31:37 PM
Upgrades have arrived.

The springs will be in on the 12th.

I need to order new ubolts... I am sure there is something else.

Noah what tools/ tool parts do I need to bring? I am guessing cutting wheel's and grinder?

ubolts: http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/U-BOLTS.html or http://offroaddesign.com/catalog/u-bolts.htm


What springs did you end up getting?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on June 02, 2015, 10:37:10 AM
Ernest says he has some new chevy front springs he is giving me. going to look those over.

I am open to suggestions on the rear springs, and maybe the front after I see what Ernest has. I am not 100% sure we will even get to do the rear setup... but I am hoping so.

let me know if you want the 118 or 122... my treat for help and shop loaning.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on June 02, 2015, 02:02:17 PM
these are the springs I used in the rear:

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/exp-13511/overview/make/chevrolet

I removed the overload spring and I had to play with different length shackles to get the ride height correct... I would also recommend ordering poly bushings from jungle to fit these as they are made for 9/16 through bolts not 5/8... I love taking a torch to brand new parts to make new parts work better (burning rubber bushings out)  :tongue3:

Front Springs:

http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1463

I am pretty sure these are the same as what Eric is running... We would remove the overload spring for sure and again burn out the bushings and replace with poly to fit the 5/8 grease bolts

These could be another option for the front but would probably be rougher on the trail:

http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=7344

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on June 02, 2015, 03:21:59 PM
Ok just rechecked Erics front springs they are these:

http://www.sdtrucksprings.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=7721

We removed the overload and added a spring from his old spring pack to make it a 5 leaf pack... voodoo is involved with the front spring selection   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 07, 2015, 09:58:35 PM
well springs and other misc parts are being drop shipped to Noah's and I head there tomorrow after work. going to see what damage can be done (besides to my wallet).

hopefully we get all of my jungle hardware adapted and on it. maybe then I can modify these springs to reuse on the 91. it needs some help
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 09, 2015, 08:43:01 AM
It begins  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 09, 2015, 09:08:11 AM
Let the sparks fly!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 09, 2015, 11:20:05 AM
Making progress!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 09, 2015, 02:05:43 PM
Jungle front rear hanger!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on July 09, 2015, 02:28:55 PM
Nice hat!!

Are you guys gonna bolt the hanger as well as weld it?

Those hangers a major PITA to remove from what I remember. Those rivets don't like to come out easily.  How did the new air hammer work? Or did you burn the rivets out?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 09, 2015, 02:44:12 PM
new air hammer is amazing!!!


put an x in them and it's like cutting hard butter  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 09, 2015, 02:45:09 PM
Quote from: SixGun on July 09, 2015, 02:28:55 PM
Nice hat!!

Are you guys gonna bolt the hanger as well as weld it?

Those hangers a major PITA to remove from what I remember. Those rivets don't like to come out easily.  How did the new air hammer work? Or did you burn the rivets out?

Nothing is a bolt on. They are welding them on. The air chisel is a beast and made short work on the rivets . :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 10, 2015, 04:10:15 PM
More progress
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 10, 2015, 04:11:21 PM
Progress  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: taz_man440 on July 11, 2015, 07:40:17 PM
So there are adjustment holes to run different springs??  Nice setup..
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 13, 2015, 11:56:34 AM
It was a long hard weekend with lots of rivet cutting.

I had 30 rivets I cut off, and Noah had to attack 8 on Keystone himself.

We got a lot done, but a lot left to do. It starts again (removed the gas tank) and it now has a better parking brake than before... but the brakes need to be bleed and the driveshafts no workie... way to short and not good angles.

Noah believes we might have to put new spring perches on the rear driveshaft to help the angle... and that is on top of needing a Cardon joint front and back... both 1350's for better angles.

it also appears we are going to have to clearance the transmission mount/ brace.

I found a site talking about shims for the cardon joint, anywhere upto 8" but suggested no more than 5".

http://www.driveshaftsuperstore.com/LARGE%20CV%20TUTORIAL.htm

seems interesting, but worry about the stress that puts on the transfer case.


On the way home I started thinking about this whole deal... and yeah we have issues here at rc.net

here is more or less how it went:

oh you broke your spring pack bolt. that stinks.

Yeah not good, I think I might do a few upgrades.


(it took about 10 minutes to fix the broken spring pack bolt, those springs are now on keystone). and it would have been done and fixed.

so now we spent probably close to 40 hours (lets say at least 75 man hours) doing this upgrade, and its not done. but it was a good weekend because "we made good progress" even though it can't move under its own power?  :icon_scratch: :dontknow:

:tongue3:

its some messed up fun. Had a great time and we did make good progress. but so much of what we did is new because ... well lets face it no one really wheels or hacks on the newer ram chargers so its all uncharted territory.

I appreciate all the help I got, and will need a lot more to get it driving again. But once it does... it should be fund and interesting.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 13, 2015, 12:01:02 PM
Oh so one thing I don't think was mentioned... and is very awsome is I made a deal with Eric. Not sure who got the better end of the deal but we are both happy in the end.

I gave Eric the seats out of the ramcharger in exchange for helping mount new seats in. Eric did some great work and I now have a 20/40/20 bench seat out of a  99 ram 1500.

its a bit funny to look at, because of the angles it makes you think the seat is at the wrong angle and won't be comfortable, but it is anything but! It is at a good height and a very comfortable seat.


not sure why it turned them sideways, and not sure how to fix that.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 13, 2015, 12:03:11 PM
here are a few more pics


you can see how far off the front driveshaft is now at full droop.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 13, 2015, 12:07:40 PM
so at this point what needs to be done is:


bleed brakes
get new 1350 yokes for both axles
get flange plate for rear output of transfer case
measure for driveshafts

Oh... yeah we had to order a 2" drop pitman arm... we got it on and noticed that we suddenly had no left turn ability (or hardly any)... Noah was quick to figure out that the drag link was now too long. So I either need an adjustable drag link or I need to do cross over steering.


The last thing that happened is that Eric also donated a driver door off his 91 cummins truck he did not need. It was blue, but a little spray paint and its much better. It got hung with the help of Mr Troxell and it shuts probably better than brand new !!!. thats good because with the lift on it now, you can't get leverage to lift to open the door like it was.  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 13, 2015, 12:10:22 PM
Quote from: taz_man440 on July 11, 2015, 07:40:17 PM
So there are adjustment holes to run different springs??  Nice setup..


Noah said its to run different springs, 46" stock, I guess maybe 48" rear's then 52" chevys.

a bit of adjustments to play with, but we just put them in the front and it seems to work good. won't really know until its out on the trail.


The rear axle got pushed back 1" and the front forward 1"... give or take.

the rear I just went ahead and cut some sheet metal to help with the rub issue, I will do the same in the front.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 16, 2015, 07:41:28 PM
This ramcharger is going to be mean on the trail! Plus have a comfy seat and air conditioning!! Wait....... I'm jealous :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 16, 2015, 08:48:34 PM
I am going to keep an eye on it, I can just see me showing up next time and my engine and ac being gone. be harder to sneak the seats by me.

I love the mpfi and how it starts even after months of sitting!!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 17, 2015, 09:10:35 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on July 16, 2015, 08:48:34 PM
I am going to keep an eye on it, I can just see me showing up next time and my engine and ac being gone. be harder to sneak the seats by me.

I love the mpfi and how it starts even after months of sitting!!
Don't worry your engine and a.c. are safe........ Now I may steal your window motors so you can't put your Windows up. That way you can suffer like the rest of us ha ha
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 17, 2015, 09:23:16 AM
Quote from: ProjectM880 on July 17, 2015, 09:10:35 AM
Don't worry your engine and a.c. are safe........ Now I may steal your window motors so you can't put your Windows up. That way you can suffer like the rest of us ha ha

:laughing4:

your funny if you think I don't have 4 of those as spares as my house.  :laughing7:

besides... you would have to put the new motor in, roll it down, then put the old motor back in. thats a lot of work
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 17, 2015, 11:17:56 AM
Quote from: rjtx667 on July 17, 2015, 09:23:16 AM
:laughing4:

your funny if you think I don't have 4 of those as spares as my house.  :laughing7:

besides... you would have to put the new motor in, roll it down, then put the old motor back in. thats a lot of work
Good point I should just cut the top off!! Convertible!!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 17, 2015, 11:55:05 AM
how many pieces did you want that dash to arrive in?  :evil6:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on July 17, 2015, 04:44:51 PM
Good point....... I did put you shifter boot back on  :great:

This morning Noah found another snake on the vw bug when it was on the lift!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on July 18, 2015, 09:02:27 AM
Quote from: ProjectM880 on July 17, 2015, 04:44:51 PM
Good point....... I did put you shifter boot back on  :great:

This morning Noah found another snake on the vw bug when it was on the lift!

i am fairly sure it was the same damn snake  :confused2:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 18, 2015, 09:20:01 AM
well I guess that means if he does it again you need to terminate him... or at least brand him so you can know for sure.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on July 18, 2015, 12:34:42 PM
What kind of snake? :violent-smiley-007:

Got pics?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on July 18, 2015, 02:13:16 PM
Quote from: SixGun on July 18, 2015, 12:34:42 PM
What kind of snake? :violent-smiley-007:

Got pics?

http://www.texassnakes.net/texasrat.htm
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on July 18, 2015, 05:27:03 PM
They are good to have around but I bet it scared the shit outta you at first.   :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on July 27, 2015, 05:16:02 PM
well I made the scary call to Tom Woods today.

I got the price for the first round of parts. I guess I will order that here soon so I can make a trip out there and put parts on and get some measurements.

The next part will be what really hurts. Plus we still have to modify the transmission brace. Thats going to be a challenge I think.  :icon_scratch: :dontknow:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 14, 2015, 10:10:46 AM
Parts are ordered from Tom Wood's so I can make a trip next weekend to measure for at least the rear driveshaft.

Hope to maybe find a bigger radiator that will work between now and then too.

Other than that the last think I want to do next weekend is take the passenger front hub off so I can get it drilled and tapped for crossover steering.

If I can get all that done, then next go round I will at least be able to drive it under its own power. Its just a question of how hard its going to be to get clearance for the front driveshaft.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 14, 2015, 05:24:55 PM
well I be broke now.. ordered the crossover steering from ORD. its good stuff, and they are proud of it  :evil6:


Now just hope it all goes together like it should.  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 24, 2015, 10:56:42 AM
We made good progress this weekend.

We got the new yokes and flags on. Measured the rear driveshaft and got it order, we were able to go with a standard driveshaft with 1350's on each end. It is right at the edge of being able to not need a double cardon but we should be good since it won't go fast.

we measured the front, and well.. we are still working on a plan for that.

Got the steering knuckle swapped out with a temp one so it can be cleaned and machined.

beyond that I got the driver window fixed in the new door. I also used an "eraser" that removed the old molding adhesive and trimmed some of the fenders for the tire clearance.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 27, 2015, 02:22:33 PM
Rear driveshaft is now at Noah's with the truck.

The cross over steering is shipping out this week, they don't have the 3" block yet... but I will work around that if they keep not being able to get it in stock.

Once the steering arm is here I will get the knuckle machined and then plan a time to head back down and get stuff put together and hopefully measure the front driveshaft.

It will be great to get to drive it again here soon  :13:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on August 27, 2015, 07:25:32 PM
Since its not driveable right now, we borrowed a piece to get the AC running.   :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 27, 2015, 07:27:23 PM
it's drivable, if Noah or Eric put the driveshaft in... and as long as it was just the condenser and you sealed the system back up... that's ok


besides you left before me  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on August 27, 2015, 07:31:55 PM
Thought that would get your attention pretty quick.   :039:

Just kidding :laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on October 05, 2015, 09:58:40 AM
Been busy and have not really had a chance to update this.


So the truck is now back home, and I have 2 driveshafts back on it  :dance:

Bad news is that it has a real bad lean to the front driver side. We thought this meant the front driver spring was bad, but after swapping it out the lean is still there.

Next I am going to try replacing the front passenger spring. Its just a big game of musical springs.


I have the shocks on order, but they are not all here yet. After that its a small list of little touch up things, and I also need to go through and check all the bolts again. and again. and again.


Ernest also brought me a used 3 core radiator that I think will drop right in nicely, going to see if this upgrade helps my heating issues.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on October 05, 2015, 04:50:00 PM
Keep at it you will find the magic combination of spring voodoo... The radiator upgrade will likely help. Just make sure you get the fan shroud on  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: workgoats on October 27, 2015, 10:14:12 AM
Is this what the spacer was for?  And, did it work?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 01, 2015, 04:43:58 PM
Spacer was for the front transfer case to front axle. Worked great. Just got it all bolted up.

I think I am done playing musical springs for now, but we shall see.

I now have 5 spare h2 wheels!!! lol I found some for a song. I also found some old but decent tires to mount  on 3 of them. So I now have a decent spare.

I got a new radiator from Ernest and its installed and looking good. Hopefully that helps on the over heat issues.

I still have a long list of things to do to be ready to go, but rain killed my movement this weekend :-(

that and needing to work on the cummins.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on November 01, 2015, 09:04:14 PM
Awesome :thumbsup:

Now I need to get working on mine!!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 09, 2015, 11:20:18 AM
all shocks are in and the rear drive shaft has been clearanced.

My battery tool arrives tomorrow to finish the relocate. I am getting close.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on November 16, 2015, 09:20:50 AM
Well the truck did great, road like a cadillac  :evil6:

smooth and nice comfy ride. most of it was the suspension, but the seats helped too.

The new center seat came in handy as well... though I do need to put in a grab handle for the center seat.


The bad news is my transfer case still acts up (no 4 high), and I lost 2nd gear, had 1st all the time and sometimes had 3rd.

Then the fuel line decided to break, so had to fix that... then Ernest, Noah, Lance, and Eric (while Ernest drove mine because he demolished his rear axle) decided to let all the magic out of my computer. They blame a bad wiring harness, but I think they truly wanted to see the magic inside and just could not get it all back in when they were done looking.  :laughing7: :evil6:

So he is now parked out back of Ernest's shop and sometime soon I will take the transmission and transfer case from the 91 up there to be installed. The ones from the 93 will be rebuilt to go in the 91 as a fresh rebuild with its fresh engine.

I now have to either find a engine and dash harness, or talk Noah out of his.  :icon_scratch:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on February 22, 2016, 09:42:00 AM
So I had a free weekend and headed out to college station with some wire harness's.

First I found an issue with the engine bay harness that had a bare wire. So I pulled that out and swapped it.

I thought I would be smart and try to see if the old computer would stop smoking with the new harness. After testing... no it would just smoke. One of the large capacitors went bad, did not blow but it did break free from the board.

So then I removed the engine harness, which was a pain as apparently in 93 the engine and transmission harness were all 1. On my 92 they are separate harness's.

So I looked it over and found 1 spot where a joint was bare. I got that cleaned up and also re-wrapped the wires around the engine that were open.

After that got it all put back together and started right up  :13:

Left it there so Ernest can get the valve body in the transmission looked at. Also going to get 4 high rebuilt in the tcase since its dead.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on February 22, 2016, 09:47:34 AM
Awesome  :thumbsup: ... there is hope  :steeringwheel:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on February 22, 2016, 09:52:22 AM
I had another thought this weekend I am considering trying.

I put 1.5" spacers all around when I added the h2 wheels.

The front needed them because it would hit the drop pitman arm for the steering... well now I have crossover steering and that is no longer the case. So I want to see what it would do without the spacers up front? It would make it narrower and easier to get on the trailer between the fenders.

The back has to keep it to avoid rubbing the wheel well. The front might be the same situation, but I figure its worth looking into.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 02, 2016, 09:59:37 AM
I have to stop looking on craigslist  :violent1:

I found a nice trailer for a price that was too good to pass up.

So now Tristian has a new way to travel.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 02, 2016, 11:21:52 AM
 :laughing4:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: crazzywolfie on March 02, 2016, 04:16:19 PM
yup that is the way it is some days. really hard to pass up a good deal. too bad you didn't live closer. i know someone that was trying to sell a tri axle trailer that they had. it almost seemed like he was giving it away at $1500 or $1300 but up here it is kind of a bad time of year to sell vehicles and trailers since a lot of people don't have room to store stuff for the winter. i would almost consider buying it if i really had a use for it.

Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 02, 2016, 09:08:52 PM
I saw some 3 axle trailers... I just did not want them because then you have to buy 6 tires instead of 4  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: 79goat on March 04, 2016, 12:25:17 AM
I have a good 318 magnum I'll sell you cheap
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 04, 2016, 07:42:32 AM
I have 2 spares of those as it is... I am trying to build up some 360's now.

junk yards sell them for about 400 around DFW on craigslist.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 04, 2016, 07:44:53 AM
Ernest had a chance to look at my transmission... its not good. He said they found parts of clutch material on the dip stick.

So looks like I will be pulling the transmission and tcase from the 91 to put in the 93 and rebuilding the 93's to go back into the 91.

The good news is that the 91 will have a new engine, transmission, and tcase when it gets going again. :violent1:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 04, 2016, 08:17:46 AM
Robbing Peter to pay Paul eventually catches up to you.  :violent1:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 04, 2016, 08:22:42 AM
well this will be the 3rd ramcharger that this engine/ transmission/ tcase has been in  :confused2:

so basically when I stole the engine last April I should have just moved it all instead of just the engine.

it always catches up with you, but I rather have brand new in the show truck when its finished.

Funny enough I actually came out ahead this week. Back when I had the 92 ramcharger I bought some rear quarter panels from a junk yard to do the body work it needed. Well the frame was shot so I scrapped the ramcharger. I had someone storing the panels and I thought he trashed them years ago. Monday he called and said can you come get your stuff? So wed I went and picked up 2 quarter panels, a lift gate, and a new hood.

The hood was a cheap new one, but its still decent enough. The quarters are still in good shape over all. and the gate is nice and not cracked.

Now I have to figure out what to do with them, besides having them stacked in my back yard. Maybe post here and on RCC see if someone wants to deal with shipping them around.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 08, 2016, 09:00:28 PM
well the transmission and transfer case are out and ready for the road trip to Ernest to re-install.

That was fun... but only took about an hour.  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on March 09, 2016, 12:52:08 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on March 08, 2016, 09:00:28 PM
well the transmission and transfer case are out and ready for the road trip to Ernest to re-install.

That was fun... but only took about an hour.  :headbang:

Awesome it should be like a new truck  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 09, 2016, 01:03:11 PM
its already a new truck... it will just now be a new truck that can go faster than 30mph and have 4high lol.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 12, 2016, 08:04:37 PM
So it was a long day today but got it done  :13:

The old transmission was very ugly in the pan.

Lots of clutch material and metal flakes. Heck it even had a leaf inside the pan stuck to the filter!!!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 12, 2016, 08:07:32 PM
Since doing the upgrade we had to replace the output seal on the rear of the transfer case because of the flange adapter.

That new seal apparently is not a stock item for any parts store around... so we did the next best thing, we swapped out the whole output housing.

The rear driveshaft angle is still a bit steep when its on a lift but its all done and back together now.

I need to replace the passenger caliper which is sticking, have a check engine light, and the speedometer apparently did not get re-connected.

Otherwise it drove good and shifted as it should and 4wd high worked.

:headbang:

few more little tweaks and it will be ready for the fun times we have planned.  :dance:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 12, 2016, 09:38:40 PM
Cool beans!!    :thumbsup:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 14, 2016, 08:52:26 AM
well the drive home yesterday was NOT fun!!!  :tard:

about 60 miles outside of Waco heading back to the farm where I store my stuff I have a trailer tire blow!

I get out and start looking... find out my lug nut tool for the truck does not fit the trailer and I forgot to pack any other tools  :violent1:

So After some calls insurance has a wrecker service on its say but it will take over an hour to get here and my brother in law is already headed out.

We get it change, but the spare I have does not look great.

I try to take it slow, but we got maybe 11-12 miles down the road and that spare throws its tread.  :violent1:

we make it to a parking lot this time. After talking a bit we decide to put my truck spare on it. It barely fits because its wider but we managed to get it on there.

After that we made it to the farm and I made it back home, but a 4 hour trip too me 7 hours.

It was a long day. And now I get to make up a trail tool box and buy some new tires.  :violent1:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 14, 2016, 12:13:30 PM
Wow...it could have been worse.  That's what gets me by when bad luck strikes.

Murphy's at it again.   :violent-smiley-007:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: KeystoneSmooth on March 21, 2016, 03:31:03 PM
Progress?
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 21, 2016, 05:36:17 PM
well its sitting at the farm (off the trailer) waiting for a brake caliper to be replaced in 2 weekends.

Besides that he is ready to go and have some fun  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 29, 2016, 10:31:44 AM
Getting my stuff gathered up for my work this weekend.

Going to get new tires on the trailer and get the brake caliper replaced on the truck.

Also going to get the driver seatbelt fixed so I won't bounce around quite so much  :steeringwheel:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 18, 2016, 08:08:31 AM
Well I got the caliper replaced this weekend and also removed the front wheel spacers.

I need to add a bit more brake fluid but it looks all good to go now.


I did notice my front driver tire had a leaking valve stem, so I swapped it out with a spare so I can get it fixed. The driver rear had the same problem... I am thinking I hit them both on something?

I am trying to figure out if there is a better valve stem to use on them or if I can build a plate to protect them.

I am going to research it some, won't have time for this trip but I have a plan for protector plates that I think could work.

Now if we can get the weather to cooperate and back off on the rain  :laughing7:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 18, 2016, 08:24:24 AM
http://www.amazon.com/VTR-Inner-Mount-Valve-Stems/dp/B00MS7RH4A


not what I had planned on, but I think it will work and is easier.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: KeystoneSmooth on April 19, 2016, 08:38:31 AM
For the short term it probably will. I would bring a few extra stems especially if it is wet and we are sliding around a bit out there.

Some rim rash guards may be in order. When I replace my tires, I will probably go with a new wheel as well, but in comparing the weight difference between mine and those on Noah's or Erics....good lord. It seriously may be 60 lbs on each tire. Maybe more. Considerable un-sprung weight.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 19, 2016, 06:37:15 PM
Yeah I hit something last time as both driver sides were leaking.

I am going to start with these then build some guards to put in. I saw a plasma cutter that was not a lot of $$.

and it and a pipe bender would be great for building a spare tire carrier and roll cage.

Those are projects for next time I make it to Troxell Automotive  :headbang:
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 20, 2017, 01:22:01 PM
So got the truck back to the house, it had been stored at my brother in laws farm.

Got it cleaned up (yuck mice/ rats) and going.

Noticed power did not look right, yeah it had a bad alternator. Under warranty so that was nice.

I am trying to get it cleaned up for Moab and make some tweaks.

I ordered the roll cage setup from jegs, but will prob just use it as a roll bar.

I have not decided if I want just the back roll bar or do more of a 1/2 cage (meaning the front post by the dash, then the back post).

I also got a pair of yellow top optima's and re-did my battery setup. The last one did not work great. I ordered a new circuit breaker off amazon to use on the winch instead of the cheap one that came with it.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 20, 2017, 01:22:34 PM
battery box. I welded it up and painted it.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on March 20, 2017, 01:23:27 PM
finished box. not too bad for a newbie of a welder


took it out sunday and it did good, but the passenger front caliper is locking up (again). so I ordered a new one from amazon.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on March 20, 2017, 03:26:20 PM
So are the 2 batteries going in the winch bumper?  Thats cool !!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on March 21, 2017, 06:58:55 AM
Looks great!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 03, 2017, 10:15:38 PM
Beake caliper is changed and i found time to straighten the steering wheel.

Still have a list of things to do before moab

Fix wipers
Install roll bar/cage
Build tire carrier
Install driving cameras
Look into front suspension binding
Insulate floor and roof
Look into transmission pan leak
Get valve stems replaced on spare tires

I felt like i was makinf peogress until i saw the list
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 04, 2017, 04:59:00 PM
Ha ha....I did a list for Carter once and got depressed.

What is going on with your wipers?  I thought it was my wiper motor after going through 2 wiper switches.  Turns out it was only mud in the connector at the wiper motor.  Brake cleaner and a brush took care of it.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 04, 2017, 05:02:56 PM
They dont work lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 04, 2017, 06:07:34 PM
No kidding Lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 04, 2017, 09:13:41 PM
what else do you want? thats as far as I got! I turned the switch and they don't turn on.

they are on the list to fix lol
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectPW on April 06, 2017, 03:14:03 PM
mine dont work either.... but we are going to the desert ... sooo may not be that important
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: SixGun on April 06, 2017, 09:11:32 PM
Take RainX
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on April 18, 2017, 12:18:19 PM
Had a busy and productive weekend at Troxell Automotive.

We got a roll cage built and installed and even fixed a few other little issues.

The spare tire carrier made great progress but without all the parts in it was not able to be finished.

Getting close to being ready for MOAB!!!

Thanks for all the help
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 20, 2019, 11:47:48 AM
So figured out that the front axle was a 3.55 not a 4.11 like we thought.

Currently its now a "full custom 2wd" truck, as we did not have all the parts required to get the new carrier and gears installed.

will be going back down in a few weeks to get it all back together and hope to have the spare tire carrier finished as well.
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on August 20, 2019, 06:24:46 PM
Quote from: rjtx667 on August 20, 2019, 11:47:48 AMSo figured out that the front axle was a 3.55 not a 4.11 like we thought.

I won't say I told you so.........

Quote from: rjtx667 on August 20, 2019, 11:47:48 AMCurrently its now a "full custom 2wd" truck, as we did not have all the parts required to get the new carrier and gears installed.

will be going back down in a few weeks to get it all back together and hope to have the spare tire carrier finished as well.

Plus you have a flat tire........

Step 1- Install new parts
Step 2 - Go to hidden falls and break old parts!!!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: rjtx667 on August 21, 2019, 03:01:43 PM
How about we skip step 2? I don't care to break more parts right now.

We can break parts on your truck !!!!
Title: Re: 93 RC Trail Rig
Post by: ProjectM880 on August 24, 2019, 04:06:22 PM
My RC is broke enough already! I say we all try to stay in one piece