Quote:
taltyman previously said:
Ok, I've got some questions. First some background. I'm closing in on 60 and I've done things like replace transmissions, rear ends, clutches, pistons, rings, manifolds, brakes, axles and other various and assorted items BUT this was done to cars, trucks, tractors that were made in the 70's and before. I've never jacked with a CV joint, never heard of a tulip thingy or a beerfield one either. We only do what I'd call gentle off roading compared to what you guys do.
Ok, Ok the questions. What would be the approximate cost of buying all those extra parts?
Assuming that we don't tear up a cv joint what might be the next most breakable part when running the bunny slopes?
Are wussies like me in the vast minority here?
|
Well, with everything you've done, this should be a snap. A new CV is about $325-350 from FJCruiseroffraod.com (Toyota of Dallas)- reman'd ones are much less.
In all likelihood, you will not be screwing around with the joints, you will be simply swapping out an axle.
Other parts that are part of a good trail kit are:
CV boot kits
u-joints
water pump
alternator rebuild kit
air filter
upper ball joint
lower ball joints (side-specific)
tie-rods
belts
hoses
front & rear brake hoses
ignition wires
plugs
wheel studs
tire repair kit
Then think about what else you would need to perform any of these repairs on the trail: fluid recovery, fluid replacement, special tools (snap ring pliers, ball joint puller, JB weld, FIPG, brake cleaner, FSM) as well as basic tools.
Make sure you have a high-lift, as there are many situations that preclude the use of the little bottle jack, and make sure you have recovery points to attach it to. A highlift can be used on a slider (safer if you use a slider adaptor) or on a D ring. D rings can be attached to a bumper, or attached to a reciever that slides in the rear hitch. If you have the factory tupperware front bumper you are pretty much out of luck.
I also should mention ratchet straps- I have performed countless trail fixes using them in some manner.
As far as cost goes, I look at it like this: Let's say I have $1,000 in parts, fluids, tools and supplies.
What would it cost to get a wrecker out to God's country?
What would it cost to tow me to the nearest Toyota dealer?
If the dealer is out in the boonies, how long will I wait for parts?
If the dealer is out in the boonies, how will I know the tech is experienced?
What would I incur for a hotel if I am stuck?
What would I incur for a rental car if I have to leave?
What would it cost me in money & time to get my vehicle back from several hundred miles away?
Some people just get AAA and don't worry about it. While that's not a bad idea, it seems to me to be a partial solution- there are limitations to coverage and it still doesn't insure you will get off the trail without compounding (i.e. making more expensive) your problem.
