Southern California Club Xterra
Southern California Club Xterra => SCCX Display Case => Topic started by: Ghost65 on November 18, 2011, 07:00:04 AM
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Joined SCCX: December 2009
Username: GhostX
Real Name: John
Year: 2005
Make: Nissan
Model: Xterra
Trim: S Model
Color: Avalanche
Mods:
- ARB rear locker with compressor
- ARB 50 QT. refrigerator/freezer
- ARB 2000 Roof Mounted Awning
- Re-geared to 3.36, front (Off Road R180) and rear (Frontier Gears from Rugged Rocks)
- Master rear axle rebuild performed by MIT Driveline in El Cajon, CA
- Titan Swap with PRG extended axles
-Radflo 2.5 coil overs with 1/2" spacers
- Bilstein 5100 shocks, rear
- OR Wheels
- BFG A/T KO's, 285/75/16
- Staun tire deflators
- Shrockworks front bumper
- Shrockworks rear bumper with tire carrier and Hi Lift mount
- Shrockworks radiator, engine, transmission, gas tank and transfer case skid plates
- K&N air filter
- VIAIR 400P portable compressor
- Kenwood TM-742a Tri-Band Ham Radio (mounted under driver's seat with detachable face mounted in coin tray)
- Xoskel custom roof rack
- 4 Hella 550 roof mounted lights
- 2 Hella 700 bumper mounted lights
- OTTRAW switches for everyone electrical!
Comments: A big thanks to all the friends (fellow SCCX'ers) who helped to make my truck what it is today.
Also, I just look forward to the next day of trail running and rock crawling with everyone.
Photos:
The GhostX, December 2009:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/Xterra2.jpg)
The GhostX, August 2012:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Titan%20Swap%20Day%20-%20GhostX/DSC_0021.jpg)
Rock crawling the Greasy Spoon Trail, Sedona, Arizona:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/CANVAZ%202011/DSC_0108.jpg)
Steel Bender trail, goneMOAB11:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Gone%20Moab%202012/steelbender.jpg)
Hell's Revenge ~ Tip Over Challenge Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPo9wnb6Gsk
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Looks good man! Moab looks fun! Hey I just started a build thread over on the new x which I will move over hear too, soon. No pics or build yet but a good list of parts and pieces I'm going with. Hopefully ill have it done before christmas
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Looks good man! Moab looks fun! Hey I just started a build thread over on the new x which I will move over hear too, soon. No pics or build yet but a good list of parts and pieces I'm going with. Hopefully ill have it done before christmas
I will check out your build thread (wish list) over on thenewx for sure.
We will be putting together a group to go to Moab in May of 2012, you should check it out. That should give you enough time to throw on some sliders, skids, and tires.
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Great build!! How can I get a hold of those sliders? Those are so simple and basic and exactly what I am looking for!
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Looks great John!
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Great build!! How can I get a hold of those sliders? Those are so simple and basic and exactly what I am looking for!
Thanks...those are original NXRocks solid sliders, not available anymore.
Remy Telaga (original owner of NXRocks before he sold it to Chris at Hefty Fabworks) made them for a short time. I have thought about replacing them with Shrockworks sliders, and if I do will let you know.
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Yeah that would be huge because I like these the best out of any others I have seen! Do you have enough space to stand on them and reach the roof??
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Yeah that would be huge because I like these the best out of any others I have seen! Do you have enough space to stand on them and reach the roof??
Yes, they work great for that. I will let you know.
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Look forward to it!
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Wow John great build. Love the picture of the Ghost laying on the boulder ;D
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Wow John great build. Love the picture of the Ghost laying on the boulder ;D
Thanks Terry!
Haha, yeah great story behind that photo. AZTed was running Greasy Spoon Trail behind me and mentioned a "posing rock" up ahead on the trail, and instead of driving "next to it" as instructed I "drove onto" it. A great day for sure.
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/CANVAZ%202011/DSC_0107.jpg)
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So who is that next to you in the picture
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I Like the pic of you and that sweet silver 1st gen in moab. What a great pic!! ;D
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So who is that next to you in the picture
Terry...that is AZ-Ted, Ted Dangler. Looks like he is attending the Rattlesnake Canyon run, so hopefully you can meet him then. Very cool dude.
I Like the pic of you and that sweet silver 1st gen in moab. What a great pic!! ;D
Yeah, it's a guy I used to know...in a galaxy far, far, away. What's up Danny, nice to see you still check the boards! Is the family or the Air Force keeping you busy these days?
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Great score! What size?
Any word on ordering up some new sliders yet so I can buy the NX Rocks ones off of you??
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thats a pretty big score!!!
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Great score! What size?
Any word on ordering up some new sliders yet so I can buy the NX Rocks ones off of you??
285/75/16's. 4 for $700.
Working on the Shrock sliders...but you knew that. ;D
thats a pretty big score!!!
Thanks Danny, now I need to get them mounted.
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Wish i had a tire machine!! If i did i would hook you up!!
by the way....Are you doing the Titan swap?
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I can mount them for you when you come down to help with the Titan swap ;D.
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Are you doing the Titan swap?
Not sure...actually thinking about locking a 3.36 R180 with the ARB...then using Pathfinder half axles to maintain stock width (so I can still do The Squeeze ;) ), get the Titan UCA's, LCA's, and new SAW coils...but plans are subject to change.
I can mount them for you when you come down to help with the Titan swap ;D.
Thanks for the offer Matt...is your TS a solid green light now?
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Not sure...actually thinking about locking a 3.36 R180 with the ARB...then using Pathfinder half axles to maintain stock width (so I can still do The Squeeze ;) ), get the Titan UCA's, LCA's, and new SAW coils...but plans are subject to change.
Thanks for the offer Matt...is your TS a solid green light now?
if you are going Titan CAs you wont be keeping stock width, you will be going to Titan width. The only reason you run Pathy axles is a Titan dif with Xterra CAs
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I'm ordering the parts on Monday. So.. hopefully I'll have everything in a few weeks. If you can wait that long to mount your tires we can do it then.
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285/75/16's. 4 for $700.
Wow that's a great deal. Where did you buy them?
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I'm ordering the parts on Monday. So.. hopefully I'll have everything in a few weeks. If you can wait that long to mount your tires we can do it then.
Thanks Matt, but my boys at Discount Tire hooked me up.
Wow that's a great deal. Where did you buy them?
Max...I was scanning Craig's List and found them in Hesperia. I was very happy.
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if you are going Titan CAs you wont be keeping stock width, you will be going to Titan width. The only reason you run Pathy axles is a Titan dif with Xterra CAs
Oh man...I stand corrected! Thanks Oz, I didn't realize that.
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Not sure...actually thinking about locking a 3.36 R180 with the ARB...then using Pathfinder half axles to maintain stock width (so I can still do The Squeeze ;) ), get the Titan UCA's, LCA's, and new SAW coils...but plans are subject to change.
Thanks for the offer Matt...is your TS a solid green light now?
Just wandered over here to check out this site since I rarely make it over here... gotta get this place in in my loop of forums to browse ...
but... I saw this and started to laugh... but soon I will not be able to do the famous Squeeze either... HAHAHA
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Well, swapped in my OR 3.36 geared front diff this weekend. Thanks to Arch'sX, hardrock, and GlamisDunesStar & Co. for all the help.
ARB rear locker and 3.36 gears on Thursday, so update again after I run the first "soft 500" miles and drain and fill the rear diff.
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Nothing like upgrades to make one smile.
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Well, swapped in my OR 3.36 geared front diff this weekend. Thanks to Arch'sX, hardrock, and GlamisDunesStar & Co. for all the help.
ARB rear locker and 3.36 gears on Thursday, so update again after I run the first "soft 500" miles and drain and fill the rear diff.
Awesome! So is the front locked ?
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Not yet...just swapped in the OR diff to match the gears in the rear. Plan on locking one of my extra R180's soon and then swapping that in. Didn't have the time or funds before Moab.
Thanks Oz!
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hey john still love that X, haha also whos the guy that left rattlesnake to be with his wife on their anniversary? i believe you made the comment of him having the highest X. Still love your X :)
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Thanks Enrique....a labor of love for sure. Welcome to SCCX!
That is Oz Trad....owner of the "Tallest IFS X" in the world, and a really cool guy and Club member.
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Thanks Enrique....a labor of love for sure. Welcome to SCCX!
That is Oz Trad....owner of the "Tallest IFS X" in the world, and a really cool guy and Club member.
warm welcomes everywhere here at SCCX. who came up with the logo?
I cant wait to start my hours of love:)
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I believe it was Bobby Black...but really not sure. The Club logo has been around since 2000, and it has definitely stood the test of time.
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Thanks Enrique....a labor of love for sure. Welcome to SCCX!
That is Oz Trad....owner of the "Tallest IFS X" in the world, and a really cool guy and Club member.
Yours truly ... and than you John! The feeling is mutual
(http://i1196.photobucket.com/albums/aa409/usko99/cleghorn%2005-7-12/IMG_4028.jpg)
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Thats a good picture of your truck Oz. You dwarf everyone else's truck. :D
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Got this in finally:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/ab15d4d6.jpg)
Testing in Moab will commence on Wednesday. :D
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KM2's are installed as well:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/f865ac10.jpg)
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thats awesome John looks GREAT!
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Thanks Oz...one of these years you and Carrie have to come stay with us and run the trails in Moab.
Now THAT would be awesome!!
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Thanks Oz...one of these years you and Carrie have to come stay with us and run the trails in Moab.
Now THAT would be awesome!!
I agree, the reason we havent is she teaches and cant get that time off from the school year. Hey about that tire - can you save it for me? I am working out of town this week so I cant meet you Tuesday. Ill pay for it (pay pal) if you want the money sooner
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I agree, the reason we havent is she teaches and cant get that time off from the school year. Hey about that tire - can you save it for me? I am working out of town this week so I cant meet you Tuesday. Ill pay for it (pay pal) if you want the money sooner
When will you be back in town? I get back from Moab on the 28th of May. Or, give me your address and I can throw it over the fence on the way by...or something like that. Would that work?
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Steel Bender Trail, goneMOAB11:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Gone%20Moab%202012/steelbender.jpg)
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A couple of new pics posted up to the OP.
The locker and gears worked flawlessly in Moab, thanks to MIT Driveline in El Cajon. Driving on the highways with the new gears has given me back my overdrive, no more lugging! And the locker...well, let me just say it has given me a new found confidence in the rocks.
Tackled Tip Over Challenge on Hell's Revenge at goneMOAB, and would not have been able to pull that off with out the locker install.
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPo9wnb6Gsk
(http://www.semperx.com/images/gallery/ozlikes-k.png)
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thanks to MIT Driveline in El Cajon.
Is the owner of that shop named Jeff? I think I just had dinner with him down in Baja.
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Is the owner of that shop named Jeff? I think I just had dinner with him down in Baja.
I believe so. Nice guy. Saw your pics over on Expedition Portal from your trip, very cool.
The tech who did all my work was named Kenny. Jeff's wife's name is Karen I believe, and met her too. Very nice folks.
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(http://www.semperx.com/images/gallery/ozlikes-k.png)
Thank you sir!!!!
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I believe so. Nice guy. Saw your pics over on Expedition Portal from your trip, very cool.
The tech who did all my work was named Kenny. Jeff's wife's name is Karen I believe, and met her too. Very nice folks.
Yeah total coincidence. I was camping with a guy who knows a guy Jeff and Karen were camping with one bay over. They had us over for fresh caught Yellowtail. it was awesome.
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Well, I finally Titan Swapped. Tired tonight, but very happy.
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Titan%20Swap%20Day%20-%20GhostX/DSC_0015.jpg)
Thanks to all who pitched in...Matt, Marc, Hennie, Rick, and Steve...couldn't have done it without you.
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Very nice! Are ya keeping your sway bars on?
Where did you do the work at? That shop kinda looks familiar
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Very nice! Are ya keeping your sway bars on?
Where did you do the work at? That shop kinda looks familiar
Sway bars are long gone Jason. I removed the rear right after I bought the X, and took the front sway bar off when I upgraded to the Radflo 2.0 coilovers about a year ago.
I was able to rent a shop for a day, which really helped. It was through a friendly connection, definitely not a "group buy" option. :)
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That's insane John... I'm loving it..
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Sway bars are long gone Jason. I removed the rear right after I bought the X, and took the front sway bar off when I upgraded to the Radflo 2.0 coilovers about a year ago.
I was able to rent a shop for a day, which really helped. It was through a friendly connection, definitely not a "group buy" option. :)
Ah ok. lol guess i should have paid alittle closer attention
Yea I bet. No group buy option :( lol
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NICE! That rig is getting more and more beastly!
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NICE! That rig is getting more and more beastly!
Haha! I have to keep up with the Joneses...er, Archidiacono's/Sturrocks. :D
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Jeez - they grow up so fast. I remember when this thing was stock - not all that long ago.
Nice.
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Jeez - they grow up so fast. I remember when this thing was stock - not all that long ago.
Nice.
Thanks Frank...quite a journey.
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Thanks Frank...quite a journey.
A journey that I'm happily in the middle of, right now ;D
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Wow, looking good! Did they install the skids also?
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Getting my Radflo's back today and skids installed for BB.
Can't...wait.
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Woooo Whooooooooooooo Just in time John, congrats.
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Great John. Thats good news. BTW Thank you again for the intel on my truck.
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What a difference a rebuild makes.
Radflo customer service is spot on.
Dropped off on Monday, picked up on Thursday. Radflo rebuilt, cleaned, and replaced the top and bottom bushings. Just a shade over $200 for the rebuild.
The ride and dampening has improved 100%.
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Now you just need some Loctite to keep your tire beads on your wheel and you're good to go. Azusa pictures intentionally omitted. ;)
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Now you just need some Loctite to keep your tire beads on your wheel and you're good to go. Azusa pictures intentionally omitted. ;)
Hey...don't omit any pictures! :D
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What a difference a rebuild makes.
Radflo customer service is spot on.
Dropped off on Monday, picked up on Thursday. Radflo rebuilt, cleaned, and replaced the top and bottom bushings. Just a shade over $200 for the rebuild.
The ride and dampening has improved 100%.
Great news John. And that is a great price for "Brand new" coilovers. I would bet that they are probably better than new.
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Looking good bud.
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Hey...don't omit any pictures! :D
My bad. ;D
(http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-chxnDnR/0/XL/i-chxnDnR-XL.jpg)
(http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-5RwfbHG/0/XL/i-5RwfbHG-XL.jpg)
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My version of the "run flat." :P :P :P
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Ouch! What got ya?
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(http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j361/Sprinter7/bonehead_cover_detail_1.jpg)
He was wearing the honorary trail leader hat when he aired down to 5psi.
Finally some pictures other than me stuck on those rocks surface.
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Haha! :D :D :D
Great post Danny.
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Are you going to lock the front diff?
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Are you going to lock the front diff?
That is the plan. 2013.
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I'm saying my prayers for a M205 Locker. :)
and trying to be good so Santa Claus gets me one.
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Well...you might have to wait for the Easter Bunny to bring it to you at this rate.
Heard anything from ARB lately on the M205 project?
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Ordered extended Bilstein 5100's for the rear from ORW.
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thought you had radflos all the way around ???
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thought you had radflos all the way around ???
Just the coilovers...saved me $250 going with the Bilsteins. Maybe Radflo's in the future, but right now just want to get that extra inch out back and the current shocks are limiting.
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SteelBender
(http://i1292.photobucket.com/albums/b562/chrishaynesusa/miscellaneous/GhostSteelBender_blkWhite_zps5a966802.jpg)
(http://i1292.photobucket.com/albums/b562/chrishaynesusa/miscellaneous/GhostX_blkWhite_v2_zps72bba38d.jpg)
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Like the pics Chris...did someone get photoshop for Christmas?? ;)
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Did you get the off road warehouse to sponsor you/GoneMoab?
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(http://i1292.photobucket.com/albums/b562/chrishaynesusa/miscellaneous/GhostsXAnzaBorego_cartoon_zpse4a770f9.jpg)
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Did you get the off road warehouse to sponsor you/GoneMoab?
Haha...I spend a lot of my stimulus money there.
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Alcan rear springs ordered!
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Nice!!!! How much?
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Is this an early tax return well spent? Nice!
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Nice!!!! How much?
Budget $800, with new U-bolts and the right shims from Nisstec.
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/36384BBB-8C97-4EE8-9A32-AC78962643DB-4627-000004B90EF89D68.jpg)
Those guys rock...got my order in 3 days (springs are 4-5 weeks) and they threw in a t-shirt and stickers.
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Also picked up a PT-10 package, so time for a little trail scuba.
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/73637AF8-62F8-47DC-BC4C-BF3FA0532B17-4627-000004B9169518AA.jpg)
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Cool lots of nice stuff.
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Well a few updates to the Ghost.
Nice ARB fridge rack made by SCCX fabricator Toro:
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/03/14/4a2u8ejy.jpg)
And Shrockworks sliders:
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/03/14/pa2aha3e.jpg)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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sliders look too pretty.
needs some rock loving :):)
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Very nice all around, great work on the rack toro!
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sliders look too pretty.
needs some rock loving :):)
Oh John, they are really are too pretty... You better do something quick!!! Hey now that you have 4WD the options are limitless ;D
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How did you end up installing them? Used the old mounts or cut them off and welded the shrockworks on?
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Cut off the originals...and welded the Shrockworks on.
Wally/Jason/Justin (no, not THAT Justin ;)) at Off Road Warehouse in San Marcos took great care of me.
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Cut off the originals...and welded the Shrockworks on.
Wally/Jason/Justin (no, not THAT Justin ;)) at Off Road Warehouse in San Marcos took great care of me.
John did you buy the Shrocks through them or did you order and they installed?
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Nice ARB fridge rack made by SCCX fabricator Toro:
Has a nice ring to it ;)
Here's a pic of it out of the truck.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/03/14/gugyra6u.jpg)
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Cut off the originals...and welded the Shrockworks on.
Wally/Jason/Justin (no, not THAT Justin ;)) at Off Road Warehouse in San Marcos took great care of me.
Stoked for you man!! Get the poison out of your system ;)
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No poison...those sliders will live on another rig soon.
Just principle.
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Has a nice ring to it ;)
Here's a pic of it out of the truck.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/03/14/gugyra6u.jpg)
Geez Danny! That thing looks like it doubles as an articulation ramp. Sure you couldn't find any heavier steel. :D
Nice work on the welding. Hard to believe you could do that with those Harbor Freight tools of yours. ;) :D
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Now that you mention it Tim, I could probably use it to change my skid plates.
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Hard to believe you could do that with those Harbor Freight tools of yours. ;) :D
Na, I'm using that American company that copies Chinese products only cheaper.
Hobart Freight
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/03/18/jyre4uvy.jpg)
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^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
:D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D
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Realized I haven't posted many updates here on some of the "recent" mods...well early 2013.
Alcans:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/D722AD91-24DC-41FF-BF49-5B5B912129F8-5644-0000050E02979E61.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/D722AD91-24DC-41FF-BF49-5B5B912129F8-5644-0000050E02979E61.jpg.html)
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/8A59DF16-609F-47EF-AA2A-03156A1AFA74-5644-0000050DCE929BC3.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/8A59DF16-609F-47EF-AA2A-03156A1AFA74-5644-0000050DCE929BC3.jpg.html)
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/08E25FF0-D6E7-4978-884C-EAD74D05BC73-5644-0000050DC163D0FC.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/08E25FF0-D6E7-4978-884C-EAD74D05BC73-5644-0000050DC163D0FC.jpg.html)
Day after leaf install:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/521FB1A9-F2EB-4699-8402-61A77A73FF5C-5644-0000050D9AF70567.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/521FB1A9-F2EB-4699-8402-61A77A73FF5C-5644-0000050D9AF70567.jpg.html)
New Pioneer HU:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/8A78B062-0CDC-4EF8-BD50-4B605288EA67-4371-000003F8E6C9F56C.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/8A78B062-0CDC-4EF8-BD50-4B605288EA67-4371-000003F8E6C9F56C.jpg.html)
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Powertank PT-10 install...not perfectly happy with this location, so I am thinking of a mount to Toro's ARB Fridge Rack (patent pending ;)):
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/FADF0BD0-FCC5-4990-A705-1A9190B3939E-13362-00000E6CBFAE3348.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/FADF0BD0-FCC5-4990-A705-1A9190B3939E-13362-00000E6CBFAE3348.jpg.html)
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/53C3BE80-B477-49B2-9197-A353B0252927-13362-00000E6CC998AB27.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/53C3BE80-B477-49B2-9197-A353B0252927-13362-00000E6CC998AB27.jpg.html)
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/975B1174-0B21-4F8F-A72C-56D56430CD39-13362-00000E6CC38D5648.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/975B1174-0B21-4F8F-A72C-56D56430CD39-13362-00000E6CC38D5648.jpg.html)
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Sweet. What was the grinding/cutting for?
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And I can't recommend one of these units more strongly...Daphne and I filled this up running 3N16 in Big Bear the weekend of our first AAT trip. Amazing the crap/stuff people leave in the forest.
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/F7DA6198-9345-48E5-AA12-6FE3C1A76259-1051-0000016ACC939B23.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/F7DA6198-9345-48E5-AA12-6FE3C1A76259-1051-0000016ACC939B23.jpg.html)
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Big%20Bear%20AAT%20Feb%202013/C5B55203-9B75-4639-8422-DE7838682AEF-15198-0000100F459721F7.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/Big%20Bear%20AAT%20Feb%202013/C5B55203-9B75-4639-8422-DE7838682AEF-15198-0000100F459721F7.jpg.html)
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Big%20Bear%20AAT%20Feb%202013/57ACB040-4054-4358-967C-B22410FC230A-15198-0000100F4F17B617.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/Big%20Bear%20AAT%20Feb%202013/57ACB040-4054-4358-967C-B22410FC230A-15198-0000100F4F17B617.jpg.html)
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Sweet. What was the grinding/cutting for?
Hey Paul...the front leaf pack mounts were ground/pounded in, so with the bolts removed the leaf pack wouldn't come out.
So, I had to put my purse down and use vice grips/pliers/pry bar to move the metal out, and then grind smooth so the Alcans would slide back in. I had the same problem with my lower shock mounts when I replaced my shocks with the extended Bilsteins. PITA...but necessary.
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I can see that with the lower shock mount. I've seen people put skid plates under there but I think beefier mounts is easier.
However, what happened with the front leaf mount? It's pretty high up. Did you hit it or just torqued it?
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And finally, a few shots from goneMOAB 2013
Sevenmile Rim Trail, traversing the Silver Crack
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/goneMOAB%202013/moabsilvercrack.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/goneMOAB%202013/moabsilvercrack.jpg.html)
Shenanigans
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/goneMOAB%202013/DSC_0074.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/goneMOAB%202013/DSC_0074.jpg.html)
Strike Ravine/AreaBFE group shot. Gentlemen in the orange shirt on the right is Olaf Kilthau...owner/operator of AreaBFE...great guy
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/goneMOAB%202013/AreaBFEStrikeRavinegroup2013.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/goneMOAB%202013/AreaBFEStrikeRavinegroup2013.jpg.html)
The Crystal Geyser, from the trail of the same name. Cold CO2 geyser that erupts at random times, we were lucky to catch it when it was bubbling. Trucks along with the GhostX are KUMA (green X) and NPGTech (black X).
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/goneMOAB%202013/DSC_0022.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/goneMOAB%202013/DSC_0022.jpg.html)
Mineral deposits from the Crystal Geyser that run right into the Green River. Pretty cool area...if you ran your hands into the fizzy/bubbly water, a few minutes later your skin would be silky smooth. Very soft, natural water.
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/goneMOAB%202013/DSC_0018.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/goneMOAB%202013/DSC_0018.jpg.html)
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I can see that with the lower shock mount. I've seen people put skid plates under there but I think beefier mounts is easier.
However, what happened with the front leaf mount? It's pretty high up. Did you hit it or just torqued it?
Hit it hard...both sides. Yeah, I was pretty amazed that rocks got up in there as well. Maybe I need to back off a bit.... :P
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Hit it hard...both sides. Yeah, I was pretty amazed that rocks got up in there as well. Maybe I need to back off a bit.... :P
Nah. Wheel like you stole it!
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John..you back off...Yeah...thats not gonna happen!!
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Want me to cut you guys some beefy rear shock mounts?
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Nah. Wheel like you stole it!
^^THIS^^
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Want me to cut you guys some beefy rear shock mounts?
The person I bought my rear shocks from actually ripped his top mount along with some of the frame. That probably needs to be beefier than the lower. But beefier mounts for the lower would be good so they don't bend so easily on rocks.
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Great pics, John. It sucks that some of the public isn't very concerned with jeeping the trails clean.
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I voted for you man! Sick pic!! Hope you win
http://www.thenewx.org/forum/showthread.php?t=65060
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Thanks Ray...a lot of cool trucks in there.
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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X2 Ray
Maybe we can get a So Cal Truck to win one of these things
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It would be easily done. These polls don't usually get too many votes
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is it bad that i didnt even look at the pics and just voted for john haha
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John, if you are in the fullerton area, we can beef it up for you.
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John, if you are in the fullerton area, we can beef it up for you.
Thanks Spencer...beef, it's what's for dinner.
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Guys... He's in a tie for first, let's get some more votes going! ;D
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I just voted for GhostX on thenewx.org
do I win something? ???
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One more vote for John here. He is now leading by one. ???
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Hey got mine in the tie breaker
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Thanks a lot guys. :)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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I just voted for GhostX on thenewx.org
do I win something? ???
You get a righteous hug from me next time I see you.
We won over at TNX for June 2013 TOTM...thank you everyone for all the support. Could not have pulled it off without the extra voting power of my friends here at SCCX. ;D
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Preparing for new roof rack install (finally, Xoskel delivers).
Removed the factory rack, using a solder iron and star wrench. The solder iron is a 250W Craftsman that I have owned for over 20 years, and it worked perfectly. Only had issues with one revnut/bolt, and ended up tearing a small hole in the roof removing the last bolt. Oh well.
Dirty roof with leaves etc. underneath the stock wet box
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0001.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0001.jpg.html)
Heating my nuts
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0005.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0005.jpg.html)
Slowly rotating the revbolt back and forth to loosen the warm thread lock
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0007.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0007.jpg.html)
Dirty little bastards
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0009.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0009.jpg.html)
Pulling the headliner down to get at the last nut with the vice grips...didn't work, but thanks for the tips Toro
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0020.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0020.jpg.html)
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0019.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0019.jpg.html)
Removed...finally
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0021.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0021.jpg.html)
One of these things is not like the other
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0011.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0011.jpg.html)
Accumulated dust/dirt/leaves/grime
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0012.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0012.jpg.html)
All done and topless. Looks kinda like a lifted station wagon! Off to Arizona tomorrow for the roof rack install on Saturday!
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0026.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/DSC_0026.jpg.html)
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Nice. I wanna compare racks when ya get back
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
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Nice. I wanna compare racks when ya get back
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
Sounds good Jason.
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Holy cow John, that's a lot more work than I thought. Well done! Well, almost done :P
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That thing is gonna be RAD! ;D
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So.. bald...
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So.. bald...
Aero-DYNAMIC!!
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Curious what you MPG will be this weekend.
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Curious what you MPG will be this weekend.
Ewww!!! You're not considering driving around topless, are you?!?!?!
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Curious what you MPG will be this weekend.
15 mpg from SD to Phoenix. Install this morning...pics to follow.
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Ewww!!! You're not considering driving around topless, are you?!?!?!
Not me...just Daphne. :p
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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15 mpg from SD to Phoenix.
Is that a bit of an increase?
It would be with my X.
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Did you wash and wax the top?
or better yet.....Bedliner........
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Is that a bit of an increase?
It would be with my X.
Correct. Usually 10-12.
First pic of the install:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/F389B13C-7F22-46E7-ACA6-51A21B88592D.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/F389B13C-7F22-46E7-ACA6-51A21B88592D.jpg.html)
Did you wash and wax the top?
or better yet.....Bedliner........
No wax...no bed liner...just cleaned.
Another shot:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/E4CAD657-5EF8-4411-BC41-1740EE4BFD72.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/E4CAD657-5EF8-4411-BC41-1740EE4BFD72.jpg.html)
Really happy with the results...even though it was a looooong wait.
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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That's awesome! How long was the wait?
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That is beautiful and functional too....
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Very nice buddy!
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So want one of these, almost traded my stocker for a baja rack.
Sent from my One using Tapatalk
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That's awesome! How long was the wait?
Well...4 months for the first rack (a looong story), and then another 9 months for this one. So, a little over a year. ::)
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Glad there was finally a product for you, really does suck arse about the time period though.
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Glad there was finally a product for you, really does suck arse about the time period though.
Black water under the bridge...thanks Nick, all good now.
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(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/11/ave9y9eh.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/11/y7ave9ug.jpg)
A coupla more roof rack shots.
And some bigger bumper lights...
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/11/py3azyde.jpg)
Still waiting on my 8 gauge wire to be delivered. Relays and gold connectors are in.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/11/4ynu3eja.jpg)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Looks like you'll have quiet a bit a daylight up there again. Looking great John!
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Looks like you'll have quiet a bit a daylight up there again. Looking great John!
Thanks Nick...wiring today!
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Wow John. Very impressive. What are they a couple million candlepower?
Hey they will come in handy at our little get together at the cove before TMR....
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Wow John. Very impressive. What are they a couple million candlepower?
Hey they will come in handy at our little get together at the cove before TMR....
Yes...and thanks Terry...220 watts, nothing crazy...more so I can extend time geocaching (just one more!!) in the desert.
Power line getting connected. Used 4 gauge wire with gold connectors, 60 amp fuse.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/14/e3y9aduh.jpg)
Positive side battery terminal....done.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/14/ra9e6upe.jpg)
Modified protective cover to accept new power line.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/14/yrusumuh.jpg)
Plumbing across engine compartment.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/14/ruhuqy7u.jpg)
Installer selfie...#YOLO ;D
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/14/avyta5up.jpg)
And...let there be light.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/14/a9enupes.jpg)
A nice xmas gift from Daphne
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/14/ybymy9a7.jpg)
Bumper lights tomorrow and a little more detailing on the roof wiring.
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Damn clean installation John.
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4ga for 4 55w lights? Overkill much haha. Nice.
Sent from my One using Tapatalk
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4ga for 4 55w lights? Overkill much haha. Nice.
Sent from my One using Tapatalk
6 - 55 watt lights, and the ham radio, and maybe other future electrical goodies. I like to plan for the future you know!
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Oh I didn't see that you ran that 4ga to a fuse box. Makes more sense now.
Sent from my One using Tapatalk
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8 ga from fuse box to relays...relays to switches...and switches to roof. 30 amp relays, one for each set of lights. set up to illuminate two outside/two inside lights separately.
Snapped a few pics during retrofit, will post later.
I had originally done this install with 16 ga and 14 ga wiring, but after studying a bit, and suffering a melted power line from the inline 60 amp fuse back to the fuse block mounted inside the firewall, and using 10 ga wire for the power source, this upgrade and over kill in wiring should keep things bright and "smoke free" at night. I also consulted the wiring How To section by Alikeli on thenewx.org.
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Fixed a few things on the X today
Before
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/28/a2ypedas.jpg)
After
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/28/he3ujypu.jpg)
Middle setting for TMR
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/28/me2e8y2e.jpg)
Thanks Jordan
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/28/ytasehe6.jpg)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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how did the splines look on that old halfshaft?
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how did the splines look on that old halfshaft?
Well, let's just say shiny and not so sharp. Scrap one PRG extended half axle. I think I damaged the internals of the diff, as the inner CV has significant play.
I ran around the neighborhood and found a dirt lot, put it into 4 HI and LO, and took it up a hill. Heard a slight clicking noise, I think coming from the diff. Who knows...I have a back up diff in the garage worst case scenario.
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Oh, "that" rattle...
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/12/hyzu7egy.jpg)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Haha nice rock catcher
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
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Just turn the stereo up !!
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Good for ripping
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It's not red anymore. ;)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Purple?.....
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Purple?.....
B-I-N-G-O
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/16/adaguzur.jpg)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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SHI!!!!!!!!
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OMG!
Tell me that's just the primer :o
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Pre-emtive strike. If he does it to himself.....He can sleep easy.
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really? Purple? Lmao .... well its your rig
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I agree with danny, he's just beating us to the punch. We will have to become more creative...muahahaha
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
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SHI!!!!!!!!
ROTFLMAO
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pink polka dots on purple while he sleeps in the desert :):)
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pink polka dots on purple while he sleeps in the desert :):)
pink polka dots. Now there is an idea Chris.
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I dont know, I am partial to sparkly unicorn stickers.
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I dont know, I am partial to sparkly unicorn stickers.
;D
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Daphne and I just want to say "thank you" to everyone...
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/SCCX%20Mojave%20Road%202014/DSC_0177.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/SCCX%20Mojave%20Road%202014/DSC_0177.jpg.html)
Sincerely appreciated, and we look forward to seeing everyone on the trail.
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Nice desert day. 80 geocaches.
Slim shady
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/04/mu3yhu2a.jpg)
Terminus
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/04/byna2y8y.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/04/nege9e6a.jpg)
Low bridge on historic highway 80.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/04/u4ydy5ug.jpg)
Bomb yard.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/04/byrunuty.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/04/upaju2y8.jpg)
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Next time you guys go please hit me up. The girlfriend and I would love to do something like that for the day. That is if your OK with other joining you.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
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Next time you guys go please hit me up. The girlfriend and I would love to do something like that for the day. That is if your OK with other joining you.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Will do...I know we meant to get together when I had the condo in Escotown and never did. I will PM you my info, and next time we head out give you a shout. Daphne and I kinda do these impromptu "mega-geocache" runs, so we see a lot but log a lot too. Unfortunately the desert season is pretty much done, as it was easily 102* on Saturday. Sunday was a little better, but it was very windy late in the afternoon.
Even with it being hot, it was a great time.
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My desert season starts when it gets above 100, you have it all to yourself :-)
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
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Moab is beautiful this time of year!!!!! ;) ;D
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I need some advice SCCX peeps -
My transmission is slipping and hard shifting from first to second gear under power, and then hard shifting from second to first on deceleration.
It has 204,xxx miles on it, and was drain and filled with new S Matic fluid about a year ago, all 12 quarts. Suffered from SMOD about 100 K ago.
I'm wondering if it is time to replace/repair this bad boy...OR?
Please discuss and give your recommendations. Thanks in advance. :)
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I need some advice SCCX peeps -
My transmission is slipping and hard shifting from first to second gear under power, and then hard shifting from second to first on deceleration.
It has 204,xxx miles on it, and was drain and filled with new S Matic fluid about a year ago, all 12 quarts. Suffered from SMOD about 100 K ago.
I'm wondering if it is time to replace/repair this bad boy...OR?
Please discuss and give your recommendations. Thanks in advance. :)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/09/vu5arymu.jpg)
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John,
Have you looked into the cost of a rebuilt transmission? I have heard some great things about them from the right shop, not AAMCO. Used tranny's look ridiculous in price.
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(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/09/vu5arymu.jpg)
I should shave my legs?
Unfortunately...a new PRO4X costs a little more than a rebuilt trans...but thanks Danny. :)
Thanks Terry, any recommendations on transmission shops for a rebuild?
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I wonder if your buddies at ORW could give you some references in your neck of the woods.
Wow looks like you have a plethora shops that claim to be the best. ;D
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http://www.autopartsfair.com/nissan-used_transmissions/xterra-2005-catalog.html?campaign=theautochannel
Got a grand laying around? We can even put it in...
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A grand? I didn't see one for less than 2200 on that web site, they think they are made of gold?
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A grand? I didn't see one for less than 2200 on that web site, they think they are made of gold?
There was 3 of them last night. I guess they're gone.
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http://www.autopartsfair.com/nissan-used_transmissions/xterra-2005-catalog.html?campaign=theautochannel
Got a grand laying around? We can even put it in...
Cool link...but the $957 trans was 4x2. All the others were around $2,500-$3K for the 4x4 model.
What do you guys know about rebuilds...ie: having a shop rebuild the existing?
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Rebuild is probably cheapest, just have to find a decent shop to do it, that's the hard part.
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I had a transmission on my Scion rebuilt at a shop here in town called Murrieta Transmission after it completely failed. It's an awesome little old-school shop, not a national chain of kids who don't know what they're doing. The owner, Harry Smith, is an old school mechanic who has rebuilt thousands of transmissions and he has a couple of great guys working for him. The drawback is - it wasn't cheap. By the time I was done, it was about $3500, but that included almost everything inside the transmission replaced and a new primary ECU for the car. So if you're looking for a great trustworthy shop that does outstanding work, I would 100% recommend them, but it's a bit of a drive for you and it won't be on the cheap side.
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Rebuild is probably cheapest, just have to find a decent shop to do it, that's the hard part.
Cool, thanks Jordan. There is a transmission shop about two miles from the new house in Oceanside.
I had a transmission on my Scion rebuilt at a shop here in town called Murrieta Transmission after it completely failed. It's an awesome little old-school shop, not a national chain of kids who don't know what they're doing. The owner, Harry Smith, is an old school mechanic who has rebuilt thousands of transmissions and he has a couple of great guys working for him. The drawback is - it wasn't cheap. By the time I was done, it was about $3500, but that included almost everything inside the transmission replaced and a new primary ECU for the car. So if you're looking for a great trustworthy shop that does outstanding work, I would 100% recommend them, but it's a bit of a drive for you and it won't be on the cheap side.
I don't mind the drive, when I get ready to pull the trigger I will reach out to them for a quote. How long was your Scion down?
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He had it for about 10 days, but that's because he ran into some unexpected problems with the ECU. The transmission rebuild alone took about 5 or 6 days, then he discovered the computer was bad (which is what caused the transmission to fail in the first place). He ordered a computer from a dismantler which turned out to be bad, and he had to send it back and get another. So there were a few unnecessary days in there getting that all sorted out.
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He had it for about 10 days, but that's because he ran into some unexpected problems with the ECU. The transmission rebuild alone took about 5 or 6 days, then he discovered the computer was bad (which is what caused the transmission to fail in the first place). He ordered a computer from a dismantler which turned out to be bad, and he had to send it back and get another. So there were a few unnecessary days in there getting that all sorted out.
Got it...thanks JF.
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I would reccommend going to the shops personally. When you see, you canm get a vibe, or a feel, of how a shop operates. I've been to some cleam shops that did a poor job. And i've been to a dirty, dingy, hole-in-the-wall place that has given up the best tranny I've ever driven.
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I would reccommend going to the shops personally. When you see, you canm get a vibe, or a feel, of how a shop operates. I've been to some cleam shops that did a poor job. And i've been to a dirty, dingy, hole-in-the-wall place that has given up the best tranny I've ever driven.
What he said. For instance, do not repeat do not go to AAMCO. Had a friend who used to manage on of them. >:(
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What he said. For instance, do not repeat do not go to AAMCO. Had a friend who used to manage on of them. >:(
Copy that. Thanks guys. Almost finished moving and then will look at the trans project.
Sent from Planet Claire using Tapatalk
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Sorry to hear about the trans...
Where did you move this time? I thought you just moved?
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Sorry to hear about the trans...
Where did you move this time? I thought you just moved?
Lol Chris...we just "moved" to Oceanside. Had a bad property management company, so moved a little more west. Better rent and garage arrangement, with a local landlord.
Have you heard of any good transmission shops in/near Escondido?
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Hi John,
I emailed my wheeling friend that lives in Vista and inquired about tranny shops in the North County area. His reply:
Sorry, We had a crazy weekend. I didnt check my e-mails until this morning. The best tranny guy in S.D. area is Kirt at Tri-City Transmission in Vista on South Santa Fe Dr. Kirt is the owner of the small shop.
Hope this helps.
Terry
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John, if you want I can dress up like a woman and work on it...... ;p
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To update the transmission rebuild research...and thanks to all that have helped in my quest to the next 100K!
Contacted Steevo and he was able to source a solid lead for the transmission rebuild - Chino Hills Transmission, in Chino, CA.
I spoke to several owners/techs, and also several members both here and on thenewx who I trust and respect.
To review, at 206,xxx miles, my transmission started to slip in D on hills, and hard shifting (kicking) from first to second gear, mostly on start up. Once warmed up, things get a little better...but problems like this rarely get "better" with age.
I spoke with Dave at LEVEL10 Transmission in New Jersey, after a referral from BulldozerX on thenewx. He was a wealth of information and both confirmed and debunked much of the information I had gleaned from "The Internet." However, after absorbing all of the information from him, the ship time and cost (4-5 days, and an additional $500), this option wasn't viable for me living on The Left Coast.
Next up...I spoke with my new mechanic (who is going to install new timing chain guides soon), who recommended Eliminator Transmission in Oceanside, CA. After visiting with them, while the information I received was good, the $485 quote to remove and evaluate the issues, seemed a bit "open ended" for my taste.
Please keep in mind that all of these shops have 4 and 5 star reviews on Yelp, and in their own right seem to be great shops.
However, after working on/paying for many repairs on the Ghost...you get a feeling when you are talking with a vendor/shop owner...call it a rapport, that eventually builds to trust.
This is what I felt in my first phone call with Greg, the owner of Chino Hills Transmission. Keep in mind this was the sixth shop that I had spoken with about Nissan Xterra transmissions (I won't mention the other three, because those phone calls didn't last long based upon what I didn't hear), so at this point the initial questions were pretty standard. Also, this was a referral from Rugged Rocks owner Steven Lutz, who answered my call on the first ring, and was extremely helpful. People in the Nissan world need to understand how truly nice and professionally helpful Steven can be...he made some calls on my behalf which led to my phone call to Greg.
Greg is currently working on replacing the valve bodies of two Xterras that had suffered the unfortunate fate of the dreaded SMOD. Strawberry Milkshake of Death...for those of you new to the scene...aka the mixing of engine coolant into the trans forming that lovely frothy dipstick syndrome. We spoke for a good twenty minutes, about torque converters, Titan Swaps, gearing, annual transmission maintenance to stretch this build another 100K, types of trans fluids, effects of coolant on the valve body internals (nothing good), and how my first mechanic saved me $6,000 when I personally suffered my personal attack of the SMOD. Suffice to say, Greg knew his stuff, and was able to communicate a succinct plan and budget to rebuild the Ghost's transmission. He also mentioned that I would need to order the valve body from a dealer, and have my VIN # handy, because they code/program each valve body to your vehicle from the factory. Greg finished up by recommending that I drop the X off the night before so they could do a full cold start evaluation of the issues, and that they video the test drive which we could review together to refine the plan of attack.
I will be traveling to Dallas (to meet my new father in law) and plan on dropping the Ghost off before that trip, to coincide with my down time, early September.
I'll get more info on ballpark pricing and estimated down time for the Ghost in my next post, as well as the quotes to repair my timing chain issues and replacement of all of my catalytic converters...yes, again...so stay tuned.
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Good luck John. Glad you're sticking with it!
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Glad to hear so much progress John. If there is any help you might need let me know. I'm relatively close to Chino Hills.
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So happy to hear some progress has been made, my friend. Please let me know if you need any help ie. rides, etc.
Wooooooooohooooooo!
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Good luck John. Glad you're sticking with it!
Glad to hear so much progress John. If there is any help you might need let me know. I'm relatively close to Chino Hills.
So happy to hear some progress has been made, my friend. Please let me know if you need any help ie. rides, etc.
Wooooooooohooooooo!
Thanks guys...I'll let you know if we need help for sure.
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Wanted to update my friends here on SCCX on a few things.
I really miss being able to contribute to the weekend trips with the group as of late, but my career change has made it more difficult than anticipated with establishing tenure and schedules at THD. After 33 years in hospitality, the career change was needed, but I am starting from the bottom again.
Less stress, but I still need to work.
Also, timing and financial constraints with jobs/veterinary responsibilities/teenage school obligations/aged parental care have limited our ability to get the X fixed as quickly as I liked, BUT it will happen.
Flirting with Land Cruisers is fun, but I know Nissans, and to make that change doesn't make sense.
We enjoy this group, the people in it, and will continue to do so as we roll with life's changes.
Sorry for committing to...and then backing out of a few of the last planned runs...it just hasn't worked with everything going on.
Thanks for reading...and hopefully understanding. :)
If not...well you know what to do. ;D
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If not...well you know what to do. ;D
Ummm....are we talking.....long walk, short pier kind of things?
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Ummm....are we talking.....long walk, short pier kind of things?
PM sent.
Didn't want to raise the ire of The Duffman.
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I miss you :(
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Driving home from a quick grocery run...and BAM!
No 1st or 2nd gears.
No more procrastination, the Ghost will head to Chino tomorrow morning for a little orange jumpsuit correction...of the trans rebuild variety. ;)
Thought I could wait til' the New Year...obvi the Xterra had other ideas.
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You got transportation home? Or are you waiting? ;)
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Let me know if you need transportation, if you can drive manual, I've got a spare car if you need
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I've seen Jordan's other car, it's orange, 450HP with #38 on the door drifter ;D
Or behind door #2, I have a KLR650 with a K9 basket on the back if you want it.
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Let me know if you need transportation, if you can drive manual, I've got a spare car if you need
Baller!
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Haha hardly baller, it is an 02 Infiniti g20 that I bought for less than 3k. It gets awesome gas mileage for work
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You guys are awesome. Seriously.
I'll text you if there are any transport issues...going to be interesting without 1st and 2nd gear, going to Chino.
Second car issues are solved, thanks again guys. The Mini/lovely wife will cover my week of down time.
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Dropped off...more info on Monday.
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/A61AFB90-0588-461D-A1DE-5CA279D0892F.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/A61AFB90-0588-461D-A1DE-5CA279D0892F.jpg.html)
Merry Christmas all!!
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Haha hardly baller, it is an 02 Infiniti g20 that I bought for less than 3k. It gets awesome gas mileage for work
Doesn't come close to my 93 Accord bucket. 3 different colors and hasn't passed legit smog in a decade.
....allegedly.......
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yea i guess i am ballin compared to your hoopty haha
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yea i guess i am ballin compared to your hoopty haha
WHAT? That coming from a 14 out of 15 kind of guy? ;D
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Yea I'm good at tests, but in real life ima retard :)
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Yea I'm good at tests, but in real life ima retard :)
Right ;)
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Ghost is back in motion.
Full trans re-build is complete...dropped off 12/23, returned 1/13.
$3,380.19 for the whole enchilada (with rice and beans!)
It's weird to drive a normally shifty vehicle.
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Hey congrats John. I'm so happy the GhostX is back on/off the road.
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WOO! Congrats John!
If I squirrel away a few pennies every paycheck I could probably afford a transmission rebuild once my truck reaches 200k+ miles like yours!
I'm super happy that you decided to stick with the X and the X community! It would of been a real bummer to lose you to those silly Land Cruiser dudes.
The Ghost is back in business!
(http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/800x600q90/901/u9xpXV.jpg) (https://imageshack.com/i/p1u9xpXVj)
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Ghost is back in motion.
Full trans re-build is complete...dropped off 12/23, returned 1/13.
$3,380.19 for the whole enchilada (with rice and beans!)
It's weird to drive a normally shifty vehicle.
Really good news!!!! Congrats and let's go get her muddy!!
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A big thanks to The Duffman for helping retrieve...as well as Steven Lutz for the great referral.
Thanks guys.....see you all soon.
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Great to hear you're back in operation.
Really good news!!!! Congrats and let's go get her muddy!!
I'm always down for mud.
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I'm always down for mud.
Boy is that a understatement. :D
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In other noteworthy news...
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Funny%20Photos/ghosthumper.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/Funny%20Photos/ghosthumper.jpg.html)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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;D ;D :o
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I just farted...take that!
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In other noteworthy news...
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Funny%20Photos/ghosthumper.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/Funny%20Photos/ghosthumper.jpg.html)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
That's what Daphne says :o :o :o
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^^^^ beer demerit.
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Steel Bender Trail, goneMOAB11:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/Gone%20Moab%202012/steelbender.jpg)
Awesome pic ,looking forward to hitting the trails with you
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Thanks Jay...it will be a fun weekend coming up.
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Broke my tri-band ham antenna...so surfing over to AES to see what kind of NMO mount I can grab before Bradshaw. ;D
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Broke my tri-band ham antenna...so surfing over to AES to see what kind of NMO mount I can grab before Bradshaw. ;D
How did you break it?
Which antennas are you looking at?
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What bands do you have? If you want a diamond antenna, don't order anything not in stock, they've been backordered for a while. http://www.diamondantenna.net/
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How did you break it?
Which antennas are you looking at?
Backed up to the garage and swung my tire carrier right into the top o' the door...snap. Or should I say...oh snap!
Jordan...I have 220mhz/2meter/70cm on my Kenwood TM 742. Although, I usually only transmit on 2M.
Damn on those wait times...
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What bands do you have? If you want a diamond antenna, don't order anything not in stock, they've been backordered for a while. http://www.diamondantenna.net/
Looks like I'm getting lucky...www.aesham.com has both Diamond and Comet multi band fold over antennas...in stock at their Las Vegas outlet.
$79.95 + shipping. Boom!
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FAIL:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/ABD339F4-62F1-48E9-8BB0-5042228140E8.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/The%20GhostX/GhostX%20Mods/ABD339F4-62F1-48E9-8BB0-5042228140E8.jpg.html)
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i use a nr770hnmo on my ftm-350ar, its a dual band but works pretty decent on 220, my radio only does 1w on 220 though.
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Nice to know someone else is on 220... I love that band. AES Vegas is great to order from. I always get my stuff the next day in the high desert.
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i didnt know anyone else had 220 either, now we can have an open freqency when terry and john are hogging the 2m :D
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:D
Uh oh, I got Terry interested in 220 at King of the Hammers... He may be hogging it before we know it.
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Nice to know someone else is on 220... I love that band. AES Vegas is great to order from. I always get my stuff the next day in the high desert.
Thanks Tom!
AES rocks! I ordered yesterday around noon time, and my antenna shipped from Las Vegas last night at 7:45pm, delivered to Ontario this morning, then San Marcos @ 6:15am....then my door this morning. Pretty impressive service.
i didnt know anyone else had 220 either, now we can have an open freqency when terry and john are hogging the 2m :D
Hogging...hams. I see what you did there... ;D ;D ;D
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Hogging...hams. I see what you did there... ;D ;D ;D
(http://fc02.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2014/105/a/0/rambo_likes_by_electrolizei0-d7ej6ak.jpg)
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No drips, noises, errors, slips, falls, or beats skipped.
Engine and trans worked like champs over the weekend! Solid! ;D
Time to sell the Ghost...
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Time to sell the Ghost...
wat.
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wat.
Yeah, wat?
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I'm guessing he means that Bradshaw was the first "real test" since the trans rebuild and timing belt replacement?
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So this happened:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/2003%20Tacoma%204x4%20DC/DSC_0043.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/2003%20Tacoma%204x4%20DC/DSC_0043.jpg.html)
;D ;D ;D
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Congrats man....end to an era, but the beginning of a new one!!
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So this happened:
(http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae195/DzrtX/2003%20Tacoma%204x4%20DC/DSC_0043.jpg) (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/DzrtX/media/2003%20Tacoma%204x4%20DC/DSC_0043.jpg.html)
;D ;D ;D
Nice. You can probably even drive the Mini Cooper up a ramp and into the bed if you needed to.
Does this supplement or replace the Xterra?
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Replacement. The Ghost is going to a very good home.
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Nice. You can probably even drive the Mini Cooper up a ramp and into the bed if you needed to.
Good one Frank...lol
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Better find a Yota forum....its going to take some time to get your 3146 posts back........well least its not a Queep
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I call BS.
We caught him today in his new ride.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/30628b14506cd617fdc474442efba3a2.jpg)
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Maybe like this?
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-s7taNk24SL0/UpKu8fUj40I/AAAAAAAABUs/9YMde5XgSEk/w942-h588-no/2013-11-24+at+13-58-45.jpg)
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That's a great looking Tacoma. WOW.
I just want to know where the Ghost went? Has to be a friend of a friend or somebodies kid or something like that.
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Better find a Yota forum....its going to take some time to get your 3146 posts back........well least its not a Queep
I'm not going anywhere.
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I call BS.
We caught him today in his new ride.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/30628b14506cd617fdc474442efba3a2.jpg)
Discovered...dammit.
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Maybe like this?
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-s7taNk24SL0/UpKu8fUj40I/AAAAAAAABUs/9YMde5XgSEk/w942-h588-no/2013-11-24+at+13-58-45.jpg)
That is a sweet ride.
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That's a great looking Tacoma. WOW.
I just want to know where the Ghost went? Has to be a friend of a friend or somebodies kid or something like that.
Soon...
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is Alex old enough to drive?
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is Alex old enough to drive?
Soon X2....lol.
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I really like those Tacoma trucks, especially the 4-door ones like that. I know a few people who have them, and they are all really happy with them. Nice color choice too. What year is it?
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I like this too.
(http://images.freshnessmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Toyota-Tacoma-Polar-Expedition-Truck-0.jpg)
or this
(http://tuningsuv.com/albums/userpics/10001/Toyota_Tacoma_Custom_9985.jpg)
or this
(http://www.autoguide.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/toyota-2013-sema-dc-tacoma.jpg)
or this
(http://www.cbioffroadfab.com/wp-content/gallery/tacoma-off-road-bumper/tacoma-rear-orr-road-bumper.jpg)
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I really like those Tacoma trucks, especially the 4-door ones like that. I know a few people who have them, and they are all really happy with them. Nice color choice too. What year is it?
Thanks Frank. It's a 2003.
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I like this too.
(http://images.freshnessmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Toyota-Tacoma-Polar-Expedition-Truck-0.jpg)
or this
(http://tuningsuv.com/albums/userpics/10001/Toyota_Tacoma_Custom_9985.jpg)
or this
(http://www.autoguide.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/toyota-2013-sema-dc-tacoma.jpg)
or this
(http://www.cbioffroadfab.com/wp-content/gallery/tacoma-off-road-bumper/tacoma-rear-orr-road-bumper.jpg)
Those are all nice rigs Chris!
The plan is to build an expedition vehicle that is reliable and capable...but more camping inspired than a rock crawler.
The Taco does have a factory locker though...which is nice. Geared at 4.10 stock too.
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Any info on the bed cover for the OD green taco?
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Well, "officially" sold the GhostX last night.
A bit of mixed emotions for sure, but excited about the new project (Taco) and all that lies ahead. The Xterra is finding an excellent new home, and its owner will surely use it as a platform for research and development to hopefully help others in the Nissan world.
The last six years have been both educational and inspirational. I loved the Xterra and all that it meant to me...the places we traveled, but most importantly, the friends we made.
I also completed the relationship tri-fecta in the Ghost...divorced, single, and married!! All in one vehicle...100,000 miles!! :)
For what it all truly means to me though...the most important part...is the friends I have made, and will keep.
Off-roading, camping, enjoying and exploring the outdoors...to me it is not about a brand, or a nameplate...or screen name that which defines us.
It is the shared experiences and laughter echoing over a campfire. The wrenching and smiles after a completed mod project...and cupcakes! :D
Daphne and I look forward to many more memories with everyone here in this non-club of a website that just happens to have an Xterra bias. ;)
Looking forward to seeing everyone at The Mojave Road Xcursion and for many more to come...
John/Geosense
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Who is this Geosense guy?
and what have you done with John? :)
how about "TacoLover"
Or "El Taco"
Or "GeoTaco"
Or "TacoCaching"
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GhostTaco
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GhostTaco
THis^^^^^
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Well, "officially" sold the GhostX last night.
A bit of mixed emotions for sure, but excited about the new project (Taco) and all that lies ahead. The Xterra is finding an excellent new home, and its owner will surely use it as a platform for research and development to hopefully help others in the Nissan world.
The last six years have been both educational and inspirational. I loved the Xterra and all that it meant to me...the places we traveled, but most importantly, the friends we made.
I also completed the relationship tri-fecta in the Ghost...divorced, single, and married!! All in one vehicle...100,000 miles!! :)
For what it all truly means to me though...the most important part...is the friends I have made, and will keep.
Off-roading, camping, enjoying and exploring the outdoors...to me it is not about a brand, or a nameplate...or screen name that which defines us.
It is the shared experiences and laughter echoing over a campfire. The wrenching and smiles after a completed mod project...and cupcakes! :D
Daphne and I look forward to many more memories with everyone here in this non-club of a website that just happens to have an Xterra bias. ;)
Looking forward to seeing everyone at The Mojave Road Xcursion and for many more to come...
John/Geosense
Amen Brother
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Who is this Geosense guy?
and what have you done with John? :)
how about "TacoLover"
Or "El Taco"
Or "GeoTaco"
Or "TacoCaching"
Well...in breaking from tradition...Geosense is more of a metaphysical thing. It is not an "it..." It just is. You either have it...or you don't.
As far as that John guy...he's still around.
I suppose I deserve a little isht from you...seeing as how that whole Dark Knight thing didn't really fit you as well as CHUSA...so I'll take it.
Geosense is my profile name on all the other forums...so conversion was easy for me. It will be okay...I promise. ;)
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Man after reading this I'm just completely cornfused.................
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I am scared....
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"GhostTaco"
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TheDarkTaco
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The Dusty Taco.
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Not sure if you guys are interested...but this happened today:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/24/65715ff7451abaede262d5299c499d79.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/24/863c837ed750ee6612eef8b90498255b.jpg)
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Always interested in what you're up to. Like you said, it's less about the make and model, and more about the clowns that own, mod and wheel them.
I knew once we let the Frontiers get a foot in the door, something like this was bound to happen ;)
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Looks awesome, John.
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Those soft shells for the cargo bed seem like a nice idea. How well sealed are they?
Looks like you got some new tires too.
You should bring this, along with my t-shirts, to the next 3rd Thursday Food Trucks.
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Not sure if you guys are interested...but this happened today:
Whoa. I'm gonna stop you right there.
If anyone ISN'T interested about news coming from you about your Taquito, there are plenty of other threads for them to peruse.
You keep posting updates of what you're doing and how it's going, dammit. That's an order. Don't make me get mad.
You wouldn't like me when I'm angry....
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Looks good John! Will that soft shell allow you to run the ARB Awning?
Also, with the soft shell, does that mean you truly do own a soft taco now? ;D
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Lol...thanks guys.
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