Suspension selection was the most difficult choice that I had to make. Everyone seem to be happy about what they have. I tried to get a
suspension roundup where different suspensions will get tested in a A/B/C type of test, but it never took off. Ultimately the All Pro Walker Evans were chosen because it's a name with a lot of history and I really like the adjustability of the shocks. There were a few hiccups (
How many clicks on the AP shocks?) and
Thursday Wheeling), but All Pro had really stepped up and helped-even though I didn't buy the shocks directly from them. I really like the fact that I can tailor the stiffness of the suspension base on load, type of terrain, or driving style.
The
Super Swamper LTBs were selected because I wanted a no holds barred type of off road tire. It would be a second set of tire/wheel so comfort and noise wasn't a consideration, but performance is. It's a 8 ply bias tire with 4 ply sidewall. It'll serve me well in the rock terrain. The compound is also very sticky. If you ever get the chance, try and pinch the different type of tires. Some have rock hard threads, while others might be too soft. I like how these feel. I went with 34X10.5X16 for increased ground clearance without sacrificing too much mileage or putting strain on the suspension. These are considered "pizza cutter" tires in that they are tall and skinny. I didn't need chop the mounts with these tires
. It's about 33.6 OD and lifted Genie another inch. See more detailed review below.
The plan was to make a set of custom
beadlocks. I would have chosen the Walker Evan beadlocks, but they only come in at 17. After looking at several companies (OMF, Champion, Allied, Trail Ready, Staz, etc.), I decided to give a small company called Beadlock Specialties a try. It was a bad mistake. I lost 4 months while trying to resolve issues. In the end, I did get my money back, but it was painful. Stay away from them. You can see my signature for the link to the ordeal. I'm still looking for beadlocks, but I'm testing the LTBs to see just how important or much will I need them. After a few outings, the LTBs were doing great even with 18lbs of air so the need for beadlocks gets pushed back a little.
All Pro front and rear bumpers hugs the line of the FJ really well and provided great ground clearance. It's one of the lightest bumpers yet has all the functionality that I need. I couldn't pass up on the deal either.
As it turned out the large light hoop was a perfect fit for my huge
Lightforce lights! Who wouldn't love a Genie with big headlights?
The unfortunate event in which I took a rock through the windshield has made me realize how special the forum has been to me. I received numerous phone calls and get will wishes. I was presented
Lightforce Blitz 240 lights with all the wiring harness and 2 filters. In addition, I received a 10lb
Powertank with some great accessories. FJoel also made a
custom battery clamp for Genie! All of those presents were things that I've really wanted but would not have purchased at the time due to cost and other priorities. I had no idea that the SoCal group was so in touch with what I wanted. The presents were a total surprise and all I can say is that "I'm not worthy"!
There are currently no plans for additional armor until more info is available for Marlin Crawler's new crawl goodies. Eventually I'll be getting more armor, but just not sure how the current offering will fit in with the MC stuff. Frankly I rarely hit anything besides the sliders and the front skid. Maybe I'm not wheeling hard enough...
Since this is my build up thread, it's fitting that I debut something original. So often have I gone out and find that I don't have a space to "work". The back is loaded with stuff and the ground is dirty. What to do? So here what I came up with...
It will withstand 15-20lbs without issue. It's nice to have out on the trail or camping. Folds down compact and locks into place.
Here are the reviews of the some of the gears that I've selected.
to be cont...
