TC's FJC

[TCao]

uphill previously said:

Are you anticipating any last minute mods before the Kokopelli Trail run in two weeks? I finally caved in and bought an X-Jack because if I have a trail repair and it's super muddy, the Hi-Lift just jacks itself into the ooooze while the FJ remains stationary. The last time I dealt with that, I ended up using rocks and a 2x4 I found about 100 ft. away, and propped rocks under the fj and after a while there were enough rocks, the lever (2x4) and eventually I go the Hi-Lift to lift-hi. But what a pain in the neck!

I'm waiting on the front bumper from Jason so I can re-install the winch. Just finished installing the Engel slide for the ARB fridge Sunday afternoon before the smoke and ash from the Witch Creek fire in Ramona made it nearly impossible to be outside; I'll post up photos later. Other than that, I'm pretty much ready. You'll like the X-Jack; it's safer to use compared to the Hi-Lift.

[TCao]

Storage box/sleeping platform version 1.5

I finally had a chance to modify the rear section of the storage box to accommodate the Engel slide for the ARB MT-45 fridge (as mentioned earlier, the ball bearings in the heavy duty slides and the Engel slide-lock both squeak quite a bit on rough roads). The Engel slide is of all-steel construction and is made in South Africa. I ordered mine from Expedition Exchange ($240) and the slide was shipped directly from the Engel distribution center in FL. The slide is securely attached to the storage box and can be extended for improved access to the ARB fridge/freezer.

Engel slide in the stowed position. Note that the new brackets mounted under the fridge handles which do not require cutting of the insulation bag.



The slide fully extended. The slide is solidly locked in either the stowed or fully-extended position.



I was able to finish this installation right before the ash and smoke from the Witch Creek fire in nearby Ramona made it nearly impossible to be outdoors. I did take the FJC out for a very short drive and the new fridge slide is quiet.

[Fjamming]

That fridge is a sweet setup. Nice work on integrating it all together. I see you're ready for a trip just about anytime! Keeps safe in SD Thong.

[TCao]

Fjamming previously said:

That fridge is a sweet setup. Nice work on integrating it all together. I see you're ready for a trip just about anytime! Keeps safe in SD Thong.

Thanks Tony. My neighborhood has been spared so far but others are not as lucky.

OK. Another inexpensive mod: rear window strap. I used a keychain I received from the WC FJCTT and added a carabiner/bottle opener. Thanks NCFJ for the idea.

[TIT-CRUISER]

Thong, Your buildup is very impressive. I have learned a lot from your posts and your detailed answers to questions that others ask. It is obvious that you have done a lot of research and you really know your sh!t. I am also impressed with all of the work that you did with your own two hands. You have skills my friend. I will strive to build up my rig with the same attention to detail. As it has been said before, thanks for being such an asset to this forum. I am looking forward to living vicariously through the posts of your next expedition. Keep up the good work.

[FJMAX]

Thong, How did you fasten down your Engel slide. Did you have to drill 4 holes to mount it? Looks great.

Randy

[Fjamming]

Looks like the tray had been detached from the slider?

[TCao]

TIT-CRUISER previously said:

Thong, Your buildup is very impressive. I have learned a lot from your posts and your detailed answers to questions that others ask. It is obvious that you have done a lot of research and you really know your sh!t. I am also impressed with all of the work that you did with your own two hands. You have skills my friend. I will strive to build up my rig with the same attention to detail. As it has been said before, thanks for being such an asset to this forum. I am looking forward to living vicariously through the posts of your next expedition. Keep up the good work.

Thank you John for the kind words. Let me know if you'll ever need help with installing with any of your mods. We can do a tech day at Scott's.

FJMAX previously said:

Thong, How did you fasten down your Engel slide. Did you have to drill 4 holes to mount it? Looks great.

Randy

I was able to attach the Engel slide to the rear section of the storage box so I did not see a need to drill holes through the cargo floor. I'll post up more detailed photos later today. Thanks again, Randy.

[TCao]

Engel Slide Installation for an ARB MT-45 fridge

The Engel slide's overall size is 28.25"L x 19.5"W x 2.25" H and weighs 24 lbs. There are six mounting holes for this slide.
For my installation, I use two 3/8 x 1-1/2 fender washers and 3/8-16 bolts to hold the slide to the front storage section.



In front, the rear storage section (which is bolted to the front section by two 3/8-16 bolts also) clamps the front of the Engel slide to the cargo floor.



There is sufficient room to access the 110V AC outlet.



Detail of the slide latch which locks the fridge tray in either the stowed or extended position.



Just enough room for the DC power plug.



I haven't had to chance to really test this installation on rough roads yet. If need to, I'll drill a few holes through the cargo floor and bolt the slide down.

[uphill]

So will you share a tiny bit of space for my ingredients for the Kokopelli Iron Chef night in your fancy refrigerator? I fear that once you swing into action with the cleaver and cutting board, my modest contribution will be put to shame.