Dirtco's Adventure Thread
- Thread starter Dirtco
- Start date
psraff
New member
Man..... Ok, there are very few builds that I'm speechless over. Yes, there are tons on here that are great, but between this and your trailer... I just sit here and actually have a smile on my face when I see what you have done.
Amazing work Sir! You're a different breed for sure! LOL
Amazing work Sir! You're a different breed for sure! LOL
Dirtco
New member
I think the excitement will set in once I take it wheeling, at this point I’m just focusing on getting it to the point where I can drive it. Thanks for the words of encouragement, its been a huge project but should be worth it once it’s done!
Thank you! I’m really looking forward to seeing how it does too!
Thanks!
I wouldn’t say that, but I think I did okay for my first link suspension. There is a lot more involved than I ever thought, specially getting everything to fit together and not interfere with each other. The true test will be once I get it out on the road, and the trail!
Well thank you! That’s why I take the time to post this stuff, I learned most the stuff I know from reading other peoples build threads back when I first started getting into the hobby. I feel it’s only right to continue the tradition. I would have posted more on the SAS but it was so involved and specific to my truck that it really would have been more effort that it’s worth.
Dirtco
New member
It’s time to crank this project into high gear! I’ve had a trip planned for several months and it’s only a few weeks away, so I need to get this thing drivable ASAP!
In order to use the Tundra brakes you have to run IFS wheel hubs off a 86’-95’ pick-up/4Runner, and they have to be turned down a little so the the brake rotors can slip over them. [MENTION=63986]Volcom[/MENTION] helped me out and found a set at a junkyard, and turned them down at his Uncle’s shop, thanks again Aaron!
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/42648440085/in/dateposted-public/" title="fdJG74crTQeGXcidKagnsg"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/858/42648440085_5c98ef0dbe_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fdJG74crTQeGXcidKagnsg"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/42648433605/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_419"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/856/42648433605_662928b6b9_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_419"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43506606992/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41a"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/936/43506606992_e95a3cb42a_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_41a"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/28666036377/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41b"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/930/28666036377_4d73756bdf_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_41b"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
In order to use the Tundra brakes you have to run IFS wheel hubs off a 86’-95’ pick-up/4Runner, and they have to be turned down a little so the the brake rotors can slip over them. [MENTION=63986]Volcom[/MENTION] helped me out and found a set at a junkyard, and turned them down at his Uncle’s shop, thanks again Aaron!
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/42648440085/in/dateposted-public/" title="fdJG74crTQeGXcidKagnsg"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/858/42648440085_5c98ef0dbe_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fdJG74crTQeGXcidKagnsg"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/42648433605/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_419"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/856/42648433605_662928b6b9_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_419"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43506606992/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41a"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/936/43506606992_e95a3cb42a_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_41a"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/28666036377/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41b"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/930/28666036377_4d73756bdf_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_41b"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Dirtco
New member
Driver side is done!
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43506835752/in/dateposted-public/" title="MbkKJ4r3Q0m8Jw9iTlIa9Q"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/936/43506835752_42f706d074_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="MbkKJ4r3Q0m8Jw9iTlIa9Q"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43506830262/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41c"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/850/43506830262_cbff8186dd_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_41c"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43553944431/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41d"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/851/43553944431_b8f84f05e3_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_41d"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43506835752/in/dateposted-public/" title="MbkKJ4r3Q0m8Jw9iTlIa9Q"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/936/43506835752_42f706d074_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="MbkKJ4r3Q0m8Jw9iTlIa9Q"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43506830262/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41c"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/850/43506830262_cbff8186dd_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_41c"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43553944431/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41d"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/851/43553944431_b8f84f05e3_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_41d"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Dirtco
New member
I guess it's time to get everyone up to speed on the build...
Transfer cases are in! Everything took a little more work than it should, but I expected that with the automatic transmission. I followed Trail-Gear's directions on installing the adapters and crawl box. They are very detailed at first, but then just tapper off into nothing. The coupler between the transmission and crawl box would not fit, there was a support bearing that was in the way. There was no mention of this in the directions but it was very clear that it had to be removed.
I didn't take many pictures but you can see the bearing after I pressed it out.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/44003181761/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4266"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1834/44003181761_1ddef38b26_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="IMG_4266"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43284503234/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41f"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/933/43284503234_94a730f2d1_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_41f"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Next was the shifters, I ordered the Radesign's Triple shifter kit for a Tacoma. But, with the automatic transmission the shifter hole is several inches forward of the shifter on the transfer case. I ended up just building a new shifter base that the levers attach to further forward. I also had to lower the mounting location of the shifters to clear the floor.
Stock Radesigns shifter location
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/44003154891/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4274"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1834/44003154891_e882762201_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="IMG_4274"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
My shifter base
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43954538422/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_428"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1819/43954538422_61b076c32b_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_428"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/29065728557/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_426"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1840/29065728557_e595ef5b2d_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_426"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
Transfer cases are in! Everything took a little more work than it should, but I expected that with the automatic transmission. I followed Trail-Gear's directions on installing the adapters and crawl box. They are very detailed at first, but then just tapper off into nothing. The coupler between the transmission and crawl box would not fit, there was a support bearing that was in the way. There was no mention of this in the directions but it was very clear that it had to be removed.
I didn't take many pictures but you can see the bearing after I pressed it out.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/44003181761/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4266"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1834/44003181761_1ddef38b26_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="IMG_4266"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43284503234/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_41f"><img src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/933/43284503234_94a730f2d1_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_41f"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Next was the shifters, I ordered the Radesign's Triple shifter kit for a Tacoma. But, with the automatic transmission the shifter hole is several inches forward of the shifter on the transfer case. I ended up just building a new shifter base that the levers attach to further forward. I also had to lower the mounting location of the shifters to clear the floor.
Stock Radesigns shifter location
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/44003154891/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4274"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1834/44003154891_e882762201_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="IMG_4274"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
My shifter base
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43954538422/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_428"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1819/43954538422_61b076c32b_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_428"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/29065728557/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_426"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1840/29065728557_e595ef5b2d_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_426"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
Dirtco
New member
I also had to extend the shifter linkage to reach the new shifter location.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/29065734527/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_424"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1795/29065734527_901406e801_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_424"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/29065734527/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_424"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1795/29065734527_901406e801_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_424"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
Dirtco
New member
Interior shifter placement
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/30148167848/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_435"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1794/30148167848_a125473450_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_435"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43109601435/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_434"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1832/43109601435_68f2b67304_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_434"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/30148167848/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_435"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1794/30148167848_a125473450_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_435"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43109601435/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_434"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1832/43109601435_68f2b67304_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_434"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Dirtco
New member
I used a Front Range Off-Road transfer case crossmember, this allowed me to get the drivetrain as high as possible. I had to trim the crossmember to clear the floor and bend one side to clear the rear heater.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/42208206750/in/dateposted-public/" title="kvlU12irSZCjLVv%Oa+lgQ"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1771/42208206750_dac06810cb_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="kvlU12irSZCjLVv%Oa+lgQ"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8”></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43114341975/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_438"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1772/43114341975_ecea82f3aa_b.jpg" width="888" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_438"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/42208206750/in/dateposted-public/" title="kvlU12irSZCjLVv%Oa+lgQ"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1771/42208206750_dac06810cb_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="kvlU12irSZCjLVv%Oa+lgQ"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset=“utf-8”></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43114341975/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_438"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1772/43114341975_ecea82f3aa_b.jpg" width="888" height="1024" alt="fullsizeoutput_438"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Last edited:
Dirtco
New member
After I got the transfer cases in I was able to measure for the rear driveshaft and have mine shortened. Mine was already retubed with heavy wall steel, so they went through it and then cut it down. With the driveshaft reinstalled it was time to take it for a short test drive!
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43301640414/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_42f"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1799/43301640414_dabdbcb9ef_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_42f"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/156493849@N03/43301640414/in/dateposted-public/" title="fullsizeoutput_42f"><img src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1799/43301640414_dabdbcb9ef_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="fullsizeoutput_42f"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
theesotericone
New member
Yep. The info's all there spread across about 20 sources. I've been meaning to write it up for the dual case thread but haven't had the time yet.
Is that the full time location for your SPOT? I have to say that's a very good place for it.
.
Last edited:
Black798
New member
With the driveshaft reinstalled it was time to take it for a short test drive!
It's been a long time coming but I bet the feeling of finally driving the truck was awesome! I can't wait to see it out in the dirt/snow finally.
fourfive
Senior Member
it was time to take it for a short test drive!
Incredible work! Cool to see the progression all the way to the end result.
I don't remember if I asked you this before or if you already mentioned it but what welder do you use?
quicksilvr
New member
:slow clap:
Wow, great work, that is one hell of a 3rd gen now. I'm really glad you stuck with it and turned it into this. Amazing project and beautifully done!
Wow, great work, that is one hell of a 3rd gen now. I'm really glad you stuck with it and turned it into this. Amazing project and beautifully done!
Tyler James Inc
Senior Member
Freaking incredible. The finished product looks absolutely gorgeous. Your work blows me away. The shot of the drivers side shows off how beautiful your tub job is, and even a nice clean little fender bracket. I love it. I love it so much [emoji1360]
