Sal-XK's Garage

[superacerc]

Yeah it's tricky where you need that washer. Don't want the two touching. I always use my meter to make sure that I don't have a continuous circuit between the middle node (+) and the ground.

Sometimes it's just tough to get these guys working right. What kind of meter are you using?

I've got a pretty neat device that tells you where the antenna is resonant without hooking anything up. It's called a grid dip meter and has vacuum tubes in it. It is from 1958 i believe. Makes it much easier to find out where the antenna is at (freq. wise).

[Sal-XK]

I have a swr meter from radio shack. While tuning I only got out of the red briefly down to 2 then I lost that and went back to 3 :(

[superacerc]

Whoa... Those aren't known to be the most accurate. Maybe yours works better than the one someone gifted me but it's not easy to use or accurate in my opinion. I've got two seperate meters that measure forward vs reflected power (2 needles) and where they cross you can see what your SWR is. Wish I lived close by.

[Sal-XK]

I know it works or did before I started trimming anyways. What brand is good to get I can always return this one I got.

[superacerc]

Is yours the little small one with no adjustment knobs? If so it's not the same one i've got. It may be fine if you've tested it against others.
Nice ones are pricey. Heres a page with pretty much all reputable ones and their prices:
http://www.gigaparts.com/store.php?action=search&category=TEST-SWR&type=radio&showall=1

The jetstream ones should be a good bargain without breaking the bank. Daiwa and Diamond are great. If you do get one make sure it's range encompasses 26-27mhz. Most of these are either for 1-60MHZ range or 144+. You need the 1-60.

Again, yours might be ok. I'm just one of those picky antenna guys.

[Sal-XK]

Mine has one adjustment knob on it and few options for testing power and stuff like that. I'll try tuning my K40 tomorrow I hope it works because I paid like $40 for this thing.

[superacerc]

I hope everything works out. That site i sent you to has a good selection of stuff including CB stuff. Good luck, it's bed time cause i'm on duty tonight and i gotta work tomorrow.

[Sal-XK]

I couldn't tune my K40 either WTF! I got it down to 2 then it went back to three and I never got it back to two again. I've boxed this Radio Shack SWR meter up and I will be returning it tomorrow then I'll order one online and try again. It just makes me mad at $45 it wasn't a cheap buy and I may have destroyed my antenna because of it. I put my meter on everything and the ground is good to the mounting bracket and I have no shorts in any of the plugs or anything like that. I also pulled my spring off and tried that way as well no change doing that the meter is just garbage so people save your money and don't but buy one from radio shack.

[superacerc]

Try running another temp ground to one of the main chassis bolts under the bumper. Just for kicks. Some antennas require a meaty ground and just a regular one wont' do. A lot of ham radio guys doing 3mhz-50mhz antennas use a flat copper braid to obtain enough ground cause just one simple wire won't do it.

Or ....

It may be that meter.

[Sal-XK]

Try running another temp ground to one of the main chassis bolts under the bumper. Just for kicks. Some antennas require a meaty ground and just a regular one wont' do. A lot of ham radio guys doing 3mhz-50mhz antennas use a flat copper braid to obtain enough ground cause just one simple wire won't do it.

Or ....

It may be that meter.

Sounds like a plan thanks. I'll wait for my new meter I just need to order one LOL. The k40 is mounted to my XJ steel bumper so I'm assuming the ground is good there. Both radios sounded fine before I started tuning I'm scared to test them again LOL. I know the firestik come long so they can be trimmed to tune because you can't add to them makes sense I'm just hopping I didn't trim to much.

[Sal-XK]

I pulled my third row out finally!!! I wasn't ready for building a storage box so I just added some quick framing to keep stuff from sliding around and to get some anchor spots as well.

I also mounted my pioneer kit flash light and fire extinguisher.

Unitstrut I'm starting to love this stuff it's a universal mounting system for sure.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5320JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5316JPG-1.jpg

As you can see I have a case of MRE's the cooler is full of water and a few more survival items are in the Jeep :)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5321JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5322JPG-1.jpg

Also mounted my Multitool (gerber)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5324JPG-1.jpg

This is my hardware section where I get most my parts from

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5317JPG-1.jpg

Communication slash music center LMAO
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5318JPG-1.jpg

BEARS CORNER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/11/100_5319JPG-1.jpg

[Sal-XK]

Finally got around to finishing my paint Job that I started with painting the bumpers and wheel flares. The rocker and bottom of the door where planed the whole time I just haven't had time. I played with how much of the bottom I wanted to paint and finally figured out I needed to paint up the rocker inside the door a couple of inches which I will finish this week some time. But at least the XK is ready for the new armadillo sliders coming.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5341JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5343JPG-1.jpg

This line will have to be moved to at least the slots you see or higher so red don't show while the door is shut
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5348JPG-1.jpg

As you can see the two little red paint spots still showing up. I'll have to paint that area now because it's bugging me.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5351JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5353JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5354JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5356JPG-1.jpg

anyway at least all the areas that usually get messed up from wheeling are now painted.

[hoaxci5]

hrm.. you've got me wanting to copy this paint job.. My bumpers are banged up, my passenger side door has a ding down low that would be covered. I'll have to show the boss and see what she thinks :p

[Matt]

I'd consider taking the door molding off and going right up to the crease...

(Edit: it'll be more in line with the bumpers at that point as well)

[Sal-XK]

hrm.. you've got me wanting to copy this paint job.. My bumpers are banged up, my passenger side door has a ding down low that would be covered. I'll have to show the boss and see what she thinks :p

If you're going to wheel I think it's almost necessary. It looks better then scratches and dents right :)



I'd consider taking the door molding off and going right up to the crease...

(Edit: it'll be more in line with the bumpers at that point as well)

I thought about doing that but decided not to that's why I left that little strip of body color just below the molding.

[Matt]

It would be even cooler if you did take the molding off... put COMMANDER letters on the factory paint where it would be on the molding, paint it, then peel the letters off.

Sorry, ideas came too late lol

[Sal-XK]

It would be even cooler if you did take the molding off... put COMMANDER letters on the factory paint where it would be on the molding, paint it, then peel the letters off.

Sorry, ideas came too late lol

LOL great minds thing a like. My wife is going to hand paint the COMMANDER letters the color of the jeep when she has time :) We will see how that looks.

[Matt]

That's "love" right there man.....

[Sal-XK]

That's "love" right there man.....

It sure is now she just needs time to do it. We've both been crazy busy lately so hopefully she can get to it before spring.

[Sal-XK]

It would be even cooler if you did take the molding off... put COMMANDER letters on the factory paint where it would be on the molding, paint it, then peel the letters off.

Sorry, ideas came too late lol

Now the wife is thinking the line don't look right LOL Does anyone know whats under the molding? Is there going to be holes that need to filled if I pull it off?

[cico7]

I can post pics tomorrow......if someone else doesnt...

Now the wife is thinking the line don't look right LOL Does anyone know whats under the molding? Is there going to be holes that need to filled if I pull it off?

[Sal-XK]

I can post pics tomorrow......if someone else doesnt...

Cool thanks man!

[Sal-XK]

SA super sliders installed!
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5579JPG-1.jpg



https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5594JPG-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5597JPG-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5595JPG-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5598JPG-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5599JPG-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5600JPG-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5601JPG-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/100_5602JPG-1.jpg

finished product in action

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/DSC03918-2.jpg

[Matt]

Lookin good Sal!!

[Sal-XK]

Did some more work on the storage yesterday


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/03/100_5681JPG-1.jpg




https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/03/100_5680JPG-1.jpg




https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/03/100_5676JPG-1.jpg




https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/03/100_5686JPG-1.jpg




https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/03/100_5685JPG-1.jpg

[Sal-XK]

Lookin good Sal!!

Thanks bro! I fixed my tow hooks today to. I added a piece of steel in there to stiffen it up and spread the load out I just forgot to take pictures.

[Matt]

It's been quiet here the past day or two.... i knew you must've been working on something lol

[cico7]

Sal - You need these!!
1130

DUST CAPS (http://www.ebay.com/itm/4x-Red-Car-Motorcycle-Bike-Metal-Grenade-Tire-Tyre-Valve-Dust-Caps-Cover-/250975724042?_trksid=p4012.m503&_trkparms=algo%3DRIC.CFNP%26its%3DI%26itu%3DUA%26o tn%3D8%26pmod%3D130632868824%26ps%3D63%26clkid%3D5 823420639872845145#ht_2453wt_936)

[Sal-XK]

Those are pretty cool!

[Holaday07 4.7]

Looks like someone is in need of some new tires...

[Sal-XK]

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/02/41bf748ad4161a6e-1.jpg removed my sway bar completely since I haven't had it connected for awhile. I weighed it as well it was 11LBS


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[Sal-XK]

Added a sticker and dropped my spare today to.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/02/41bf748ad570e3e6-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/02/41bf748ad58bcf01-1.jpg


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[criket]

So are you disconnected in front also? or just have the rear sway bar removed?

[Sal-XK]

So are you disconnected in front also? or just have the rear sway bar removed?

No I haven't done the front yet. I will at some point though try it out :)


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[Holaday07 4.7]

what did you get for your birthday?

[Sal-XK]

what did you get for your birthday? i replied in the other thread :)

[NeilSmith]

where you puttin the spare , up top ?

[Sal-XK]

where you puttin the spare , up top ?

Not sure yet!

[AJeepZJ]

I wouldnt recommend anywhere permanent - I saved one of my silent armors for ya.w

[Sal-XK]

I wouldnt recommend anywhere permanent - I saved one of my silent armors for ya.w

Sweet thanks bro!

[IamJEEP]

Tire Gate= Badass!

[Sal-XK]

Got my superchips flash pack installed today! I downloaded the software update program and updated the programmer with no problems. First thing I did was correct the tire size and install the mileage tune for better MPG's. First thing is the speedo is dead on at 40 but a couple off at 60 this was tested with a GPS. The trans is shifting real nice and not hunting for a gear every time I hit the gas or the road inclines the slightest bit. I really didn't get to drive to much on it but I took a detour and hit the reset button on the fuel button and hit a steady 19MPG which is a pretty good considering when I do this in the past I may get 15 at best but it don't stay there and makes it way back down pretty fast. I know some would be do to the tire size being corrected but considering it wasn't that far off most of it must be the tune I'll know more tomorrow. The other feature I'm testing out is monitoring the system while driving. The one thing I really wanted to have displayed is the trans temp which is not working for some reason. It can display 4 sensors at once which I like. I have it plugged in and mounted in the jeep right now after the XK is off it powers down after a while so shouldn't drain the battery. I'm going to hit the reset button again to get a base line for my normal route so I will be able to tell real results tomorrow.

[superacerc]

Since I only corrected my tire size with mine so far I went up to 15.3mpg after leaving your place and resetting it. So thats about 250 miles worth of fairly flat road running between 55-75. Haven't used the tune feature so I'll see what it ends up being next weekend on my drive back. I should note that last week after driving from VA to GA it was only at 13.4mpg without the correct tire size. My speedo is spot on at most all speeds that i've noticed since changing it.

[Sal-XK]

Ya 2 MPG's is what I was thinking I would get with the tire size so I'm hoping the other 5 I got is the program but we will see.

[AJeepZJ]

Thats good... Nothing like having aftermarket mods and gear, with OEM mpg's... Haha

[BonesWK]

Thats good... Nothing like having aftermarket mods and gear, with OEM mpg's... Haha

yup, Im a bit jealous.. though this one could be an easy sell to the wife lol

[Sal-XK]

Well I cleared 18MPG going this morning :) I've never come close to those numbers. That's an extra 5MPG from where I started.


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[Sal-XK]

If my math is good I was 7% off before the corrected tire size which means 1MPG just on that alone. Then maybe do to mode efficient operation in trans operation give that 1MPG this is just a guess by the way. Leaves me at least 3MPG gain from the mileage tune.


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[superacerc]

Just got mine to update properly and can't wait to try it out. I'm getting excited at those numbers. Didn't know it was possible.

[Sal-XK]

Just got mine to update properly and can't wait to try it out. I'm getting excited at those numbers. Didn't know it was possible.

Keep in mind I drive pretty slow


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[AJeepZJ]

Well I cleared 18MPG going this morning :) I've never come close to those numbers. That's an extra 5MPG from where I started.


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music to my ears. It's funny how we all obviously didn't buy our Jeeps for there fantastic MPG's... but when you can take your fun rig out and still get DECENT mileage... now that's a win.

[Sal-XK]

More numbers LOL I should say my normal route that gave me 18MPG today is mostly 60MPH kinda hilly not flat by any means but I only had 2 stop lights hit them both :( and 2 stop signs. So that's four 0-60 starts for me and I take my time doing it to LOL now today I went home a different route lots of stop lights speeds were fro
45-55 MPH the hole way. I did get caught by several lights :( but still got 16MPG oh and I mounted the programmer
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/02/41bf748af088a284-1.jpg


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[EvilJager]

Nice ive been thinking of using a cell phons holder to mount mine on that side too. But a
Thinking of getting a new programmer.

Do you leave yours plugged in all the time?

[Sal-XK]

Nice ive been thinking of using a cell phons holder to mount mine on that side too. But a
Thinking of getting a new programmer.

Do you leave yours plugged in all the time?

Right now I am leaving it plugged in it powers down after a few minuets once you shut the jeep off then just hit any button and it pops back on. I had gift card from the holidays still so went to bestbuy and picked that one up for $26 it was the only they had in there to.

[Sal-XK]

Added the LED tail lights to the rear bumper. Putting these in the XK is simple and straight forward no issues and pretty easy. Putting these in the WK is a giant PITA to say the least. The WK has some support pieces in the way behind the bumper that needed to be ground a way.

Pretty much straight forward just measure and cut. I recommend cutting slightly smaller and testing fitting and continue until you get a good tight fit.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/02/100_5736JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/02/100_5747JPG-1.jpg

Wiring is pretty straight forward you have a couple of options I guess I just tapped into tow package in back. For AJ I tapped in and extended his 4 prong trailer plug because he uses his. On mine I use the 7 prong so the 4 was just hanging behind my tow package so I just cut and tapped into that and all done.

[criket]

Looks good man and I'm sure it adds to the safety factor for other drivers. It matches your color scheme too.

[Matt]

I would like to do something like that, but instead of brake lights make more powerful reverse lights.... hmmm....

[Sal-XK]

I would like to do something like that, but instead of brake lights make more powerful reverse lights.... hmmm....

AJ had some LED reverse lights that I was pretty impressed with. Throw those on with the lights I have up top I think that would do it for me.

[Matt]

Where'd you the the lights from?

I'd probably throw a little pushbutton switch on the shifter that way i could control the reverse lights separately, but make it somewhat intuitive while im shifting in/out of reverse. This will have to be my next mod. It'll really come in hand for my OBX trip this summer too.

[Sal-XK]

Where'd you the the lights from?

I'd probably throw a little pushbutton switch on the shifter that way i could control the reverse lights separately, but make it somewhat intuitive while im shifting in/out of reverse. This will have to be my next mod. It'll really come in hand for my OBX trip this summer too.

Your going to have AJ that he supplied the lights for me!

[Matt]

man i just started googling LED backup lights... so many options!!
What are the dimensions of yours? I'd like to use that as a reference point then try to find the brightest ones i can at a reasonable price that are about the same size.

[Sal-XK]

man i just started googling LED backup lights... so many options!!
What are the dimensions of yours? I'd like to use that as a reference point then try to find the brightest ones i can at a reasonable price that are about the same size.

I think there 7x3 but I'd have to go out and confirm that.

[AJeepZJ]

This little project turned out to be pretty awesome. Really sets off the look of the XK's to me. Actually, I had originally only got these for Sal, for helping me with so much in the past. They are 20$ a piece (40$ total). I got mine from O'reily's. Make sure you get the tail lights that fit inside of the rubber housing. This will protect the LED from water, and provides a great finish for the bumper as well. I was so impressed with these, that I ended up buying myself a pair, lol. I remembered someone posting this mod on another forum, and Sal and I jumped all over it.

[Matt]

like these?
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/VAL0/30818.oap?pt=N2154&ppt=C0335

[Sal-XK]

like these?
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/VAL0/30818.oap?pt=N2154&ppt=C0335

That looks like them to me.

[Matt]

That looks like them to me.

"Not available" in my area or for order online :(
Will continue here so i dont threadjack: http://www.theultimatejeep.com/showthread.php/1725-High-powered-reverse-lights-in-rear-bumper

[EvilJager]

Nice addition... and smart thinking making aj do all the work haha... its nice having friends close that can always lend a helping hand.
Ive got a friend 2 mins away but would be cooler if he had a wk/xk lol

[AJeepZJ]

Nice addition... and smart thinking making aj do all the work haha... its nice having friends close that can always lend a helping hand.
Ive got a friend 2 mins away but would be cooler if he had a wk/xk lol

It was such a big difference working on Sal's versus mine.... took an entire hour less (at least).
LOL if Sal asked me to do anything for'm I'd do it without hesitation.

[EvilJager]

Yea us wk's have more junk in da trunk haha

[Sal-XK]

Ok I now have 285/70/17 installed and no wheel wells or flares LOL I also deleted my rear heat as well and will have to do the AC before I wheel I think. I also did the pinch weld mod I had no choice obviously. For the heat a $5 heat hose coupler did the trick for now I needed my jeep for work tomorrow. For the lines under the jeep there still there I just went underneath and cut and crimped the lines shut. When I get the AC lines done I'll pull all those lines out.


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[AJeepZJ]

Ummm... Where are your pictures....

[Sal-XK]

Ummm... Where are your pictures....

I'll get some tomorrow I just finished way to dark for pics and I was rushing to get the jeep back on the road I have one of the tire and pinch weld I did
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/IMAGE_3B9BEC0C606A44FF9134F430493687A2JP-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/IMAGE_CEBAD41EBA4742E2B196489DEED86EB9JP-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/IMAGE_3327897C8FFB4F51A73317732B159D79JP-1.jpg

[07JeepXK]

Got any pics of the rear?

[Sal-XK]

Got any pics of the rear?

No I'll get some tomorrow I promise :) its a tight fit for sure bro but I gained 1"+ of ground clearance measured at the rock rails :) which will help off road I'm sure.

[Omelet]

Nice Sal! Looks sharp! I will own those tires eventually, they are pretty awesome.

[Sal-XK]

Nice Sal! Looks sharp! I will own those tires eventually, they are pretty awesome.

Thanks man!


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[BonesWK]

looks great man.

While you are taking photo requests :) could you get us a good picture of the tread?

And for some reason I am digging the no fender look.. but I like that on TJs as well.

[Sal-XK]

looks great man.

While you are taking photo requests :) could you get us a good picture of the tread?

And for some reason I am digging the no fender look.. but I like that on TJs as well.

As soon as I get home today I'll snap a bunch of pictures. I was kinda digging the look of it with out the fenders myself :) Right now I'm just considering putting the wheel flare back on not the wheel well. I looked briefly at it and it looks like the two separate pretty easily. I'll finish the front today I hope and then move onto the rear which I'm pretty sure at full flex they will rub pretty good.

[stites-xk]

looks mean. i like it

[pjmjr508]

Looks great Sal

[criket]

I like the looks of it soo far!!! :D

Can't wait to see the rest!

[criket]

Sal, you should get flat fenders!!!

[Sal-XK]

I'm about done modding for the season. The rest of my budget will be for traveling and going wheeling :)


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[AJeepZJ]

I'm about done modding for the season. The rest of my budget will be for traveling and going wheeling :)


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Yeah you and me both, lol. (Kinda) I still need to get a track bar.

[cico7]

Sal, you are going to put wheel wells back in though...right? Phunkey and a few others hydrolocked because they didnt have the well covers or there was a hole that aloowed water in.

[Sal-XK]

I don't have a CAI anymore though. The stock box is water tight so I still need to suck water from the front so I should be good. Either way I'm going to check out that rubber stuff Toby was talking abut and maybe use that to close the gaps.


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[criket]

I don't have a CAI anymore though. The stock box is water tight so I still need to suck water from the front so I should be good. Either way I'm going to check out that rubber stuff Toby was talking abut and maybe use that to close the gaps.


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That rubber stuff should work. It'll at least keep it cleaner inside the engine bay. You know, you could get some short stainless steel bolts and drill holes in the metal part of your fender well and mount the rubber pieces. You can also cut the rubber in smaller pieces and hook them together with the bolts. Add some big washers so the bolts don't rub a hole through the rubber.

[AJeepZJ]

There's never really enough water at Uwharrie to hydrlock the engine. It's so hilly, and they do a good job of run-off/erosion management there. Most of the water will run off into nearby creaks. then they lay logs parallel with the stream to allow water follow and also allow vehicles to cross the creek without disrupting the flow so much. There's always been very little water to worry about, the mud was just slippery as hell when it rains.

[07JeepXK]

Sal, you are going to put wheel wells back in though...right? Phunkey and a few others hydrolocked because they didnt have the well covers or there was a hole that aloowed water in.

When did phunkey hydrolock his XK? I have a snorkel so I'm not worried....I just don't want all the mud going in my engine compartment.

[Sal-XK]

Ok I snapped a bunch of pics while I was waiting to leave for dinner so if I promised a shot and missed it let me know.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5869JPG-1.jpg https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5853JPG-1.jpg Pinch weld and removed rear heater hose https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5851JPG-1.jpg https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5854JPG-1.jpg https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5855JPG-1.jpg https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5857JPG-1.jpg https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5859JPG-1.jpg That's a penny it almost disappears in the tread not sure why it came out blurry but I was in a rush. https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5862JPG-1.jpg https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5863JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5864JPG-1.jpg

[Sal-XK]

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5865JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/101_5872JPG-1.jpg

[Matt]

The craziness has just begun!

Can't put the flares back on without hitting them?

[Sal-XK]

The craziness has just begun!

Can't put the flares back on without hitting them?

Not sure yet I barely got it to where I could drive it without risking my new tires then went to bed. I think the actual flare will clear but I just haven't had time to do anymore testing.

[Carn75]

I'm diggin' the new shoes Sal. I almost bought them instead of my Grabbers,but at the time they were going for too much and I got a pretty good deal on the AT2s.I think I'm starting to like the missing flare look too. :)

[cico7]

not too long before he sold it....he had to replace the engine...
When did phunkey hydrolock his XK? I have a snorkel so I'm not worried....I just don't want all the mud going in my engine compartment.

[AJeepZJ]

Looks really good sal, lol. Your Approach angle just shot through the roof!

[pjmjr508]

Looking great Sal

[LWM]

Now you need a set of the Steel Armadillo tube fenders :)

[Sal-XK]

Now you need a set of the Steel Armadillo tube fenders :)

I likey!


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[Sal-XK]

It's been a crazy week between work and the wife has me working in the back yard I've had no time for the XK. I did manage to separate the flares from the liner and got the flares back on. I'm going to trim them down there to big and I'll rip them off wheeling. Oh and me sneaking off to go fishing :)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/41bf748a4ea8d5c4-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/41bf748a4eba6943-1.jpg

Some of the projects keeping busy.

Putting a fence in and yes we were drinking LOL
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/41bf748a4f5cc492-1.jpg

We got a new grill because the old one was done so we took apart and made a out door table out of it.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/41bf748a4fbd16c9-1.jpg
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/41bf748a500ec7ca-1.jpg

We're also getting are patio extended and already fired The concrete guy LOL we have another one coming out now.

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[AJeepZJ]

This is the work you were telling me the Father in law does... You are right, he's good.

[Sal-XK]

This is the work you were telling me the Father in law does... You are right, he's good.

Ya you think I'm OCD he's just as bad if not worse LOL


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[AJeepZJ]

lol - I would agree with you IF you were stitching a winter sweater together, or planting flowers in the yard. But you are putting an outdoor table together from scratch to enjoy food off a badass grill.... There is no such thing as OCD in these situations; only perfection.

[Sal-XK]

I trimmed my flares today and trimmed the AC line plastic cover.

Before
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/IMAGE_A9A6A80CB0DB46C489083A131476CDE5JP-1.jpg

After
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/IMAGE_4CC4D15AA0A54D8790F8CBFA1FBE314CJP-1.jpg

And the AC line cover since I had the bandsaw out I used it on this as well
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/IMAGE_F2391CDCE516444FA699014A6CBCF57CJP-1.jpg

The driver side
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/03/IMAGE_1AF195270A174A1EB9A318CAA4872FBBJP-1.jpg

I haven't got to the rear yet but I'm getting there soon I hope what ya guys think?

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[Ross]

What did you use to cut the fenders?

[Sal-XK]

What did you use to cut the fenders?

I took them off and used my bandsaw.


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[AJeepZJ]

Yeah, you of all people could def benefit from some new aftermarket fenderflares... You should talk to Nathan Ramos. Will you be matching the rear to the finished fronts?

[Sal-XK]

Yeah, you of all people could def benefit from some new aftermarket fenderflares... You should talk to Nathan Ramos. Will you be matching the rear to the finished fronts?

Half my rear flare is attached to the rear door so not sure what I'm going to do back there. Nathan why?


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[AJeepZJ]

He custom made some pretty sexy fender flares. The way the XK is designed it would be a lot easier to fab some up and bolt on.

[criket]

I like it. It reminds me of when TJ guys trim the plastic flares on thier fenders. I didn't realize that the flares cover up that much visually.

[07JeepXK]

Again, you beat me to it. You shouldn't have any rubbing up front now.

[Sal-XK]

He custom made some pretty sexy fender flares. The way the XK is designed it would be a lot easier to fab some up and bolt on.

Oh ok, If I don't make my own some day I'll probably buy the SA ones.

[Sal-XK]

Again, you beat me to it. You shouldn't have any rubbing up front now.

I hope this takes care of it but I'll know for sure Saturday. I went fishing today and got flexed out, I think I heard the rear tire rubbing a bit.

[Matt]

Dude.... high five.

[Sal-XK]

Dude.... high five.

Thanks bro! I'm in my thinking phase for trimming the rear bumper :) and in the lost phase as how to handle the rear flare :(

[AJeepZJ]

Oh ok, If I don't make my own some day I'll probably buy the SA ones.

Oh, nice! Ok.

[Matt]

Thanks bro! I'm in my thinking phase for trimming the rear bumper :) and in the lost phase as how to handle the rear flare :(

Some of the best ideas are generated when there's no clear path on how to proceed. https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png

[Sal-XK]

Some of the best ideas are generated when there's no clear path on how to proceed. https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png

I agree and a lot of inspiration from the guys around here as well. :)

[Sal-XK]

Here is the repot.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_29D4152C871D4D9CA36038E74B6F1BA2JP-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_A8E6861DC80A4E4DA3C87842426C2EA8JP-1.jpg


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[AJeepZJ]

Did this resolve your contact issue you had with your pinchweld? How is she driving? It's good that all you needed was a BJ... but yeah.. for 300$ you could spend 50 bones more and buy a PAIR of UCA's and install them yourself. I would have laughed at the guys face too, dude. lol.

[DetroitMarauder]

It's good that all you needed was a BJ...

LOL!

[AJeepZJ]

LOL!

Hmmm yeah, that doesn't read off very well at all, lol. You guys have some of the most atrocious minds! BALL JOINT LMAO!

[07JeepXK]

300 bones for a BJ dammm.

[Sal-XK]

They want $88 for the ball joint and $188 for labor I knew it was coming I sat there and listened to all of them call up every person that had a car there and tell them they needed something all of them needed tires and wiper blades for some reason LOL it was full court sales in that place or everyone had a POS.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_D35BEC0C486E4C9E95CFDC877D77803EJP-1.jpg


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[AJeepZJ]

lol I assume when they say ball joint 'going up and down' they mean there is 'PLAY' in the balljoint when there shouldn't be. But you should be impressed, Sal! The way you describe the impact you took on that rock. The fact that all you really needed to do is get new balljoings after your 6K LB XK going 15 mph coming to an immediate HALT from impact on an IFS tire... means either you got lucky, or the IFS system is stronger than I thought. And that's not the first time you've banged an IFS component and walked away with just a couple scratches. (or gouge in some cases) lol.

[Sal-XK]

lol I assume when they say ball joint 'going up and down' they mean there is 'PLAY' in the balljoint when there shouldn't be. But you should be impressed, Sal! The way you describe the impact you took on that rock. The fact that all you really needed to do is get new balljoings after your 6K LB XK going 15 mph coming to an immediate HALT from impact on an IFS tire... means either you got lucky, or the IFS system is stronger than I thought. And that's not the first time you've banged an IFS component and walked away with just a couple scratches. (or gouge in some cases) lol.

Oh ya bro I'm very happy and the ball joint has 82k on it as well. If that's all that's wrong most impressed bro. When I think of all the other hits I took this IFS system is tough as nails man.


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[superacerc]

I just replaced my driver side ball joint cause mine was "going up and down" too. Also had my tie rods replaced and a new balance and alignment (which was the original reason I took it to my friend's shop while I was back home). Noticed i was getting alot more of that popping when turning the steering wheel. Now she steers real nice and tight and the ball joint's not "going up and down anymore" without the UCA attached firmly. Looks like your's lasted a tad longer than mine. i'm at 76k.

[Sal-XK]

I just replaced my driver side ball joint cause mine was "going up and down" too. Also had my tie rods replaced and a new balance and alignment (which was the original reason I took it to my friend's shop while I was back home). Noticed i was getting alot more of that popping when turning the steering wheel. Now she steers real nice and tight and the ball joint's not "going up and down anymore" without the UCA attached firmly. Looks like your's lasted a tad longer than mine. i'm at 76k.

Mine would of last even longer if I didn't hit the giant rock!


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[Sal-XK]

After uwharrie I started rubbing my left front on the pinch weld even after the alignment. It helped but still rubbing. So I decided to cut and grind down the area I'm rubbing in and hopefully after my ball joint goes in and another alignment all will be good.

First thing I had to do was bend it back so I could cut it. It was packed with mud behind there as well
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_82CBEB69358A4EB0B7A1A47DAC614057JP-1.jpg

Then I cut them off leaving some meat for grinding.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_39BA43CECBE84B19B12F4FDD063AE03EJP-1.jpg

Then I kept grinding till it was smooth. Not sure if I need to run a weld on the seem or not? I was thinking maybe yes.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_19919AD57D2F46D4BE5B535B9CEB62F2JP-1.jpg

All painted up again
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_8E7FFDF5FADE47A294D1C99F89ABAA2DJP-1.jpg

It's still close and rubs at certain points still so I'll order the parts but hopefully this will save tire while I wait.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_3BC30F38ADD9414691F7CFD28CC0D972JP-1.jpg

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[NeilSmith]

if you wanna run a bead down it,it wouldnt hurt. be sure to pull back the carpet and padding so not to torch the whole thing. sounds like common knowledge but ive seen experianced guys burn stuff that shouldnt be burned. :)

[Sal-XK]

if you wanna run a bead down it,it wouldnt hurt. be sure to pull back the carpet and padding so not to torch the whole thing. sounds like common knowledge but ive seen experianced guys burn stuff that shouldnt be burned. :)

Is it necessary or just a precaution? Just curious be a day or two till I call and borrow a welder.


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[07JeepXK]

if you wanna run a bead down it,it wouldnt hurt. be sure to pull back the carpet and padding so not to torch the whole thing. sounds like common knowledge but ive seen experianced guys burn stuff that shouldnt be burned. :)

Yeah my buddy Jay started the inside of his WK on fire when he was welding in his new plate after he cut out the entire pinch weld area. He's lucky that I was there, I noticed the insde carpet on fire. lol

[Sal-XK]

To show the level a distraction I'm at right now yesterday I used the impact just to snug the lugs before dropping the jeep and forgot to torque them down after I lowered the jeep :eek: I realized my mistake at about 3am while staring at my ceiling not being able to sleep LOL anyways that may have been why I still had some rubbing because I fixed it before I left and didn't rub yet. I want to wait till my heads clear to weld the seam and replace the ball joint but I don't want to ruin a new tire either..... Oh well, what ya going to do!

[Sal-XK]

The tire still rubs a bit but I ordered my part from rock auto and the sucker shipped with in the hour :D you can't beat that. I have a 4 day this weekend I just found out LOL so I'll go at the jeep and see if I can't solve all my rubbing issues. I looked at the rear a little bit and really not sure how with keeping it looking good I'm going to clear more room at the same time.

My weekend project list

1 Replace lower ball joint
2 get new alignment (FREE :D)
3 grind down more pinch weld
4 weld pinch weld
5 weld in plate over pinch weld
6 Do rear pinch weld work
7 Make more room for rear tires

OR drink beer and go fishing :cool:

I added another pad to my back yard so hanging out at home really isn't all that bad. I got the outdoor speakers all hooked and everything.

Pic of the new pad
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMG_0545JPG-1.jpg

Its starting to take shape
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMG_0548JPG-1.jpg

This is how I ate my dinner last night :) and yes I know the fence isn't done its been to windy to finish staining it.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMG_0551JPG-1.jpg

[AJeepZJ]

Just get the jacuzzi done, install the pool, and build another room over the garage and I'll be ready to come down. Looks nice dude. And stop posting food on here. If i find out there's bacon in that, i'm going to get pissed.

[Sal-XK]

Just get the jacuzzi done, install the pool, and build another room over the garage and I'll be ready to come down. Looks nice dude. And stop posting food on here. If i find out there's bacon in that, i'm going to get pissed.

Actually it calls for pancetta but we didn't have any so the wife used bacon instead! :p mmmmmmmm Bacon!

[criket]

Party pad looks good Sal. I wish I had a spot like that!

Keep us informed on the ball joint. Curious to the outcome.

[Sal-XK]

Party pad looks good Sal. I wish I had a spot like that!

Keep us informed on the ball joint. Curious to the outcome.

I will I might be going to the beach this weekend now LOL

[AJeepZJ]

I will I might be going to the beach this weekend now LOL

No, you had too much fun last weekend. MOAR WORK, LESS PLAI.

[Sal-XK]

No, you had too much fun last weekend. MOAR WORK, LESS PLAI.

Now we're going to pigeon forge :) Until something else catches her fancy LOL


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[criket]

Now we're going to pigeon forge :) Until something else catches her fancy LOL


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You may be going by my house if you go towards pigeon forge. Bring your parts and we'll do the ball joint, lol

[Sal-XK]

You may be going by my house if you go towards pigeon forge. Bring your parts and we'll do the ball joint, lol

Yes and you can watch the kids and deal with the wife LOL


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[criket]

Yes and you can watch the kids and deal with the wife LOL


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HAHahah...........no thanks. I get enough practice as it is.....

[Sal-XK]

HAHahah...........no thanks. I get enough practice as it is.....

Ya that's what I thought :)


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[Sal-XK]

Well lets see progress on the XK 0% LOL progress on my other two hobbies fishing and drinking all good LOL shot over to Gatlinburg for a few days the family went to dollywood and the old man an I grabbed a bass boat and hit the lake for the day then hit the pub after that all an all a good weekend.

We fished a flooded canyon an man this thing was deep I saw 100' on the sonar a lot.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/photo2012028229JPG-1.jpg

We fished these cliffs that had points and ledges had a blast
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/photo252042520252822529JPG-1.jpg

The views were awesome and I didn't take many pics I was just caught up in the day.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/photo252032520252822529JPG-1.jpg

Then ran into town to wait for the women for dinner and hit a pub over looking the strip.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/photo252052520252822529JPG-1.jpg

[Lt_JWS]

well i just missed ya Sal... im heading to Gatlinburg the 21st.

[Sal-XK]

well i just missed ya Sal... im heading to Gatlinburg the 21st.

Have fun man I forgot how crowded that place was LOL


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[BonesWK]

Have fun man I forgot how crowded that place was LOL




Pigeon Forge = Myrtle Beach of the Mountains lol

[Sal-XK]

Pigeon Forge = Myrtle Beach of the Mountains lol

Yes it is but except for food and drink Saturday I avoided the tourist LOL


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[Sal-XK]

Time laps Video of that JK I was helping with last month.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5m7XCxzm84E&feature=youtube_gdata_player


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[Sal-XK]

Took the front left side apart to replace the ball joint what a PITA the tool don't work all the way with our LCA design and stuff the replacement ball joint is then to long to get back in by like 1/16" dremmel cured that. I popped the cv out not on purpose :( never messed with them before so I was not happy. I got the ball joint and cv back in now just need to reassemble the rest and see what I messed up. I added some grease to the cv because wrestling it back in my hands were covered in grease messed with it for about an hour before I realized cutting the bottom of the bolt solved all my problems.

This were I sit now taking a break and having a beer
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/4bbefbd43293bb52-1.jpg

I have a lot of cleaning before I continue it looks like I was rolling around in grease and it's on everything. Here is a link to the thread I used as a guide
http://www.jeepcommander.com/forums/showthread.php?t=16216&highlight=Lower+ball+joint


Update: I got it all put back together added some grease to the CV because it lost some while messing with it. The ball joint is in and as stated in the thread I had to grind down the LCA some so the C clip would seat all the way in. Not sure why but my tire isn't hitting the pinch weld area now but the inside of the tire is still rubbing the frame rail up front. I'm bringing it back in for another alignment today and I'll see if its all back to normal after that. I have some miles on it now and I feel hear and see no problems so I'm guessing I got the half shaft seated in the cage properly. I did try to release the arm from the upper ball joint which would of allowed me to install the lower ball joint without cutting it down but it wouldn't come free easily so I left it because ordering UCA right now would flip the wife out LOL. I didn't see anything bent at all so I'm hoping this gets me back to where I was before I smacked things out of whack.

[AJeepZJ]

Sounds like the replacement was a success. I may have missed it in your post, but did you replace the balljoint with an OEM or Aftermarket?

[Sal-XK]

I ordered the moog from rockauto shipped the same day


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[Matt]

Sal, you need some UCAs? Shoot me a text, ill hook you up with the Dormans I have.

[Sal-XK]

Been waiting for this to come in and it finally did I'm so excited or maybe drunk or both what ever I love it.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/4bbefbd4df1b26a0-1.jpg






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[Chapman89]

The XK is now officially complete...for now!

[AJeepZJ]

thats looks pretty cool, man...

[Sal-XK]

Ya I'm pretty happy with it :D


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[pjmjr508]

Nice

[Sal-XK]

And it begins!!
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/4bbefbd4d286a723-1.jpg




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[NeilSmith]

no brakes ! Ahhhhh ! Is that gonna be your latest badass mod ? :)

[Sal-XK]

That would be one scary mod LOL I got distracted my wife emailed me a craigs list add from work I might own a bass boat now LOL I told the guy I'll take it but that he had to meet me at the DMV for the paper work so if it's all legal with no issues I'll have it Monday!!


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[criket]

Flame on!!!!!

Good luck man.

[LWM]

Photos of the Bass boat in your garage, I sold mine a long time ago.

[Sal-XK]

It's all back together and test drive complete. The grinding noise is gone I think the rubbing is gone as well. I did tight turns in a parking lot and all the fresh paint is still there so here is hoping. I'll try do get an alignment tomorrow if I have time.

[Sal-XK]

Some pics of the damage to my spindle and axle nut someone was beating on this with a hammer :( only one shop has touched this jeep since I owned it and from what I've seen it was probably them.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_4437B55A7C7044C2AC265CE45357D82EJP-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_88669BD4A2CE4BFDAB845D2D77E98D13JP-1.jpg

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[07JeepXK]

Sal, can you do me a huge favor and take a picture of how much clearance you have between your tires and the upper ball joint/spindle. I was looking at my XK tonight and was thinking that with the 285s i just ordered it might be close. The wheel I bought have 4.5 inches of back spacing which would be the same as you running stock wheels with 1.5 inch wheel spacers. When I say the same im referring to the clearance between the tire and the spindle/ball joint. Thanks

[Sal-XK]

You always ask when it's dark out LOL hope these work for ya let me know.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_C2106FC076A04742A06849AA65098D01JP-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_13D6D78961ED41DDB0C9A94C0EEBBBC2JP-1.jpg

[07JeepXK]

Perfect. If I have that same amount of clearance i'll be set. I was a little worried today when I was looking at my Jeep.

[Sal-XK]

Perfect. If I have that same amount of clearance i'll be set. I was a little worried today when I was looking at my Jeep.

Ya with that back space or spacers there is lots of room. I still haven't solved the clearance issues in the back what do you have planned?

[07JeepXK]

Ya with that back space or spacers there is lots of room. I still haven't solved the clearance issues in the back what do you have planned?

Well I just got (2) 1 inch performance accessories body lift spacers from the local off road shop that I'm going to use as bump stop spacers. The 4 inch BDS lift uses them in the rear but uses 2 inch spacers. I'll probably install them Friday night. Once that's done ill be cutting 1/2 inch off the flare all the way around. That should fix any issues in the rear. For the front I'm going to do what u did but only take off an inch all the way around. The tires and wheels will be on this weekend so ill post pictures by Saturday night.

[Sal-XK]

My work entertainment station in my garage I wrench in style. LOL :D

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/4bbefbd4c28eaaac-1.jpg


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[Sal-XK]

Got the trim off so I can repaint them
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png

Looking better
https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png


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[Sal-XK]

This was a test but I like it so took it back down to plastic and I'm going to have the wife paint the letters for me

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/photo204JPG-1.jpg\

Also working of the rear end issue with the rubbing as well
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/photo205JPG-1.jpg

[Sal-XK]

Modding the jeep is a family event :)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_9B12381003174D658233ABD4EB99E020JP-1.jpg

One down one to go
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_0CBC742E1B404EEBA874DD8FFD6F5C22JP-1.jpg

[pjmjr508]

Nice I like it

[Sal-XK]

I have one side done and installed! What do you guys think?
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_0980DD6667AD4D0E812BBFBC46416911JP-1.jpg

Also reprinted the black trim
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/IMAGE_54186BAF26EB4202BB45B8A1F4ADAEBEJP-1.jpg

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[LWM]

I like it, the more people personalize their rigs the better.

[Sal-XK]

I'm all done I got all bumpers and stuff repainted as well as removed the molding and repainted them with plastic trim paint. The wife did an awesome job on the lettering for me.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5949JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5948JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5950JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/04/100_5951JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5952JPG-1.jpg

[pjmjr508]

Looking great

[Sal-XK]

Looking great

Thank's man with buffing the thing out and repainting everything it took me about 2 1/2 days to get it all done but it was worth it :)

[Sal-XK]

Spent the day giving my new ride a workout! :D
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMAGE_B33107C1FA5D43A98C0E21743AFA9517JP-1.jpg


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[pjmjr508]

Spent the day giving my new ride a workout! :D
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMAGE_B33107C1FA5D43A98C0E21743AFA9517JP-1.jpg


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that looks like so much fun, enjoy it

[stites-xk]

That would be so much fun

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[Sal-XK]

It was a lot of fun I have a fish finder for it as well I just need to install it.


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[stites-xk]

That's awesome man I would love to get one. Any luck? Do you bait or lure fish?

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[Sal-XK]

That's awesome man I would love to get one. Any luck? Do you bait or lure fish?

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We were just bass fishing so some soft bait and crank stuff we were at a lake we never had much or any luck in but caught one bass about 12" which was are first bass out of that lake and largest fish as well LOL

[stites-xk]

We were just bass fishing so some soft bait and crank stuff we were at a lake we never had much or any luck in but caught one bass about 12" which was are first bass out of that lake and largest fish as well LOL

That's cool. You ever try fly fishing? I love it its a great rush when you hook a 20" trout on a 9' pole

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[Sal-XK]

That's cool. You ever try fly fishing? I love it its a great rush when you hook a 20" trout on a 9' pole

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No never fly fished I surf fish though I like that a lot too and cat fish those suckers are huge down here. It will be awhile before I ever attempt fly fishing I need to get better at what I'm fishing now LOL


My garage (http://www.theultimatejeep.com/showthread.php/73-Sal-XK-s-Garage)

[IamJEEP]

I'm all done I got all bumpers and stuff repainted as well as removed the molding and repainted them with plastic trim paint. The wife did an awesome job on the lettering for me.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5949JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5948JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5950JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/04/100_5951JPG-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/04/100_5952JPG-1.jpg


Gay ^^^^^^^^

[Sal-XK]

Crawl back in you box and play with your little guns!


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[IamJEEP]

Crawl back in you box and play with your little guns!


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Lol....looks good bro. I like the red on the Commander letters, good thinking.

[Sal-XK]

Lol....looks good bro. I like the red on the Commander letters, good thinking.

AJ mentioned having the wife paint the letters in the dash on the passenger side so I might do that to match next time the dash is off.

[IamJEEP]

AJ mentioned having the wife paint the letters in the dash on the passenger side so I might do that to match next time the dash is off.

How much red is on the interior? It might look "out of place" if its the only red in there.

[1USMC]

You and your wife did a Great job.!. I think the lettering job looks good on your rig !

[superacerc]

Well, I've been busy for a bit with my attention drawn by other things i've been doing and haven't kept up with your garage. Love the new tires! How are the sidewalls on those? Pretty tough? Also just realized that your front fender wells are a bit thinner. That'll be done over here by the end of the week. Looks awesome! The fishing looks pretty sweet also. Enjoy your free time and the lesser responsibility that goes with it.

[Sal-XK]

Thanks guys! I haven't had a chance to test the side walls yet so I can't comment on that yet the side walls are not as stiff as my last set on road though they have a little more roll running the same psi.

[Sal-XK]

We finally got are yak's all modded up will its a start anyway. We started out with the ascend 12FS we've added a garmin echo 200 sonar in hull transducer mounted. Also added an anchor pulley system as well it allows you to set the point were the anchor holds the yak very easily. We added are batteries to the back using pretty big deep cycle marine batteries we can run our sonar for weeks off these things on like me find a way to add some lights off road light of course LOL

Garmin all wired up
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMAGE_A6294DA0D11E4D3F8CE35D87A821EDBAJP-1.jpg

We used a host at the end to help protect the wires from the gear thats in the crate with the battery.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMAGE_CE3AEC77DE614708A99344145A51EB89JP-1.jpg

A side by side shot we set them up pretty much the same there are small differences his sonar is set way further up then mine
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMAGE_82B30E2E3A8640A581A57BA3797C18E2JP-1.jpg

The green one is mine and the other is the wifes dad's AKA the old man. Now we weren't sure if yaks needed to be christened and named like normal boats. So we decided on our last test trip the boats were ready and needed to be named LOL so we reached into our coolers and pulled out two yuengling s I went first I hear by name this boat Disco Ball LMAO crack goes the other can and before I could say anything he pours his beer and says Canna Catch **** the first word canna is Scottish slang for can't LMAO so I canna do that you guys get it now. No hes searching for a way to put the names on the yaks OMG I'm guessing were going to have some weird conversations this summer when people read that.

The old man out having some fun on our maiden voyage
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMAGE_468EFD3D8FBA4F18A59A13876E2FC5B7JP-1.jpg


My maiden voyage pit stop literally I had to take a piss LOL

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/05/IMAGE_B33107C1FA5D43A98C0E21743AFA9517JP-2.jpg

Its going to be a very productive fishing season this year I hop. We have already landed 4 bass out of lake we shore fished a hole bunch and never really got anything never any bass anyway

[LWM]

Cool story, enjoy the ride. I still have not put mine in the water.

[pjmjr508]

I love the painted lettering

[Trax95008]

hey sal , does the front skid make it a pita to change the oil? it looks like it would at least block access to the oil filter

[Sal-XK]

hey sal , does the front skid make it a pita to change the oil? it looks like it would at least block access to the oil filter

No not really but I've chopped half the bumper off to so I have more room to get to it. For off road that skid is a must and it looks good to :)

[AJeepZJ]

Dont know about the XK's but on Wks the frontskid is in the way of the drain. The filter can be accessed from the engine bay. Unless you have a drain tube, you've gotta remove the guard. But I decided it was bettwe to unbolt three of the four bolts and swing the guard out and suppport the other end under somethin to relieve stress off the remaning bolt.

[superacerc]

Depends on which engine you have. The 4.7 is no issue. You dont need to remove the guard or un bolt it at all. Just reach an arm up there and undo the filter. I believe the 5.7 has to have the guard removed to access the filter. I know nothing about the v6.

Also on the 4.7 there is a catch basin for the oil filter drippings so they follow a channel down and come out a spout between the 4xguard front and engine skid plate. Very easy job ob the 4.7.

[AJeepZJ]

the 3.7L also has this basin... but the oil will run eerily close to the guard. But it's still a very easy job that is not worth taking to any dealer... (not even for free).

[Trax95008]

yeah i think its engine dependent. looking up under my 5.7 i can see that the skid would be in the way. in the event of an oil change, how much time would it take to remove and replace the skid? can anyone take a pic of the skid and where it mounts?

[Sal-XK]

yeah i think its engine dependent. looking up under my 5.7 i can see that the skid would be in the way. in the event of an oil change, how much time would it take to remove and replace the skid? can anyone take a pic of the skid and where it mounts?

The best pic I have I think its bolted to two brackets you install. As you can see really its just four bolts with my battery impact I can take it off in less then a minuet which I do from time to time to clean the back side an inspect the skid.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/100_4039JPG-1.jpg

[Trax95008]

yeah that looks like i could zip it off with an impact real quick

[superacerc]

I usually throw afloor jack underneath to support it and impact it off. Maybe 3 mins max.

[JustinS]

Gotta say, your XK and your willing to go outside the norm and not accept a cookie cutter Jeep is what brought me to this site. Keep up the good work Sal!

[Sal-XK]

Gotta say, your XK and your willing to go outside the norm and not accept a cookie cutter Jeep is what brought me to this site. Keep up the good work Sal!

Thanks man I appreciate it :)


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[Matt]

I joined here after sal took his doors off...

[Sal-XK]

I joined here after sal took his doors off...

Thats how I roll! LOL ;)

[Sal-XK]

I finally got around to making a new wind deflector for my basket. I had a sheet of metal laying around so we cut out a shape hammered it flat put some holes in it and a little paint and it's all done. I just need to test it on the road now to see if the metal was thick enough. I used bolts six of them to secure it I'll get pics of that when I can.
https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/P04433800-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/P04434201-1.jpg

[Sal-XK]

So I stopped at the truck stop for coffee this morning come out to start the jeep and something didn't seem right. I didn't think anything of it but went to leave today and the jeep struggled to get started :eek: So after a very long day I had to stop to get a new battery:( First stop I made and I knew better but did it anyway and pulled into an auto-zone. Now I did forget yellow top don't list our jeep but I told the guy I need a yellow top for my jeep. No problem and he takes off LOL comes back and starts ringing up this huge black battery and yes it has some yellow on top of it hahahahah I said wait what is this I said yellow top he says ya OMG dude Optima bro Oh he says I thought you meant our brand OMG. I said listen bro yellow top is an optima brand just because you have some yellow on top of yours you can't be calling it a yellow top man. So genius looks at the computer and says well they don't make one for your Jeep DoH my bad quick holster pull on the phone fire up tapatalk and bam dude give me a d34 or d35 crazy look on dudes face LOL Yes I have one ok great oh wait your going to be mad he says. The only one I have is marked sept 2011 hahaahahahah ah man my day is going great. I calmly say no big deal man and walk out go down the street to the O Riley's were I should of stop at in the first place and got hooked up. Auto-zone always busy long lines not great customer service rarely friendly. O Riley's clean stores great customer service and usually knowledgeable people. Well at least I have yellow top bringing my jeep to life now :D

[Matt]

I said listen bro yellow top is an optima brand just because you have some yellow on top of yours you can't be calling it a yellow top man.

Almost spit out my drink when i read this. lol nice!!!

[Sal-XK]

Almost spit out my drink when i read this. lol nice!!!

Ya I was a little insulted when he pulled that move bro. If I didn't know what I was talking about he would of ripped me off and sold some duralast junk giant 200lb POS!

[06JeepXKHEMI]

I dont like these auto-parts store people either, 99% of them have no idea about cars, hell I called for a bump stop and the guy goes whats that?!? And got to love when buying some detail supplies and they try instructing you how to use the completely wrong way.. Worthless

[Matt]

I dont like these auto-parts store people either, 99% of them have no idea about cars, hell I called for a bump stop and the guy goes whats that?!? And got to love when buying some detail supplies and they try instructing you how to use the completely wrong way.. Worthless

I can top that..... I've had idiots argue with me about stuff and their claim to fame for the reason they are "right" is because "hey man, i work at autozone".... hahahahahaha, yeah buddy, good luck with that

[T1RKaZz]

You think auto zone would give a crap about how it makes them look and teach them the basics or at least teach them to shut up and listen

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[Matt]

It's all about ambition. Every once in a while you'll find a diamond in the rough at any of those parts stores.... a worker who actually loves vehicles and knows what they're talking about. Unfortunately, 99% of employees are kids who wanted to get their neon windshield wipers for a discount so they got a job there.

[Sal-XK]

Well I'm installing one of those boxing gloves on a coil spring like in the cartoons, and if my tires ever hit an autozone parking lot it will go off and knock me LOL I figured that would be less painful then actually going in LOL I still can't believe he said " I thought you meant one of ours" LMAO

[Matt]

So Sal... being you're {off topic} garage thread.... what's next for "big red"? :cool:

[Sal-XK]

So Sal... being you're {off topic} garage thread.... what's next for "big red"? :cool:

LOL I don't have any current plans right now I'm in the thinking phase mostly at this point. My Jeep gets me everywhere I want it to go and still drives well on the road so not sure. I know I want and will get the SA steel bumpers. But after that I might turn my attention to the inside of the jeep. I have thoughts on the inside as far as gadgets and entertainment goes.

[Matt]

Cool man. Some SA bumpers seems like the next logical step

[Sal-XK]

Ya I want to do some more suspension mods but OME is what half the SL so I was thinking of getting the SL. But the SL is getting up there on my way to a SFA LOL so I'm stalled on that. I might start with a new sound system so the next time some idiot shakes my windows with there gangster crap I can turn mine on and shake his whole car out of the lane.

[Matt]

Ah man the SFA is way beyond the SL. So much customization is needed let alone getting around the computer issues....
I say bumpers now, SL after. :)

[Sal-XK]

Ya I know but LOL

[AJeepZJ]

That was a funny battery story - lol.

[Matt]

Pics or it didnt happen

[criket]

And by pics Matt means go back to Auto Zone (or wherever it was) and get a pic of you and the duffass holding the "yellow" top battery and post back up here. That would be CLASSIC!!!!

[Sal-XK]

And by pics Matt means go back to Auto Zone (or wherever it was) and get a pic of you and the duffass holding the "yellow" top battery and post back up here. That would be CLASSIC!!!!

I would but my Jeep has been fitted with an automatic self destruct system that goes off if any of my tires make contact with an autozone parking lot! :D

[Matt]

Is that the same system that destroyed Adams t-case?

[AJeepZJ]

I would but my Jeep has been fitted with an automatic self destruct system that goes off if any of my tires make contact with an autozone parking lot! :D


Ooops... Sal... remember that ONE time you let me drive ur Jeep =/

[07JeepXK]

Is that the same system that destroyed Adams t-case?


Hey now...be nice

[Matt]

Lol I was thinking maybe I cought you in a lie and you didn't blow the case up a climb at rausch.... it was a actually while turning into autozone hahaha

[07JeepXK]

Lol I was thinking maybe I cought you in a lie and you didn't blow the case up a climb at rausch.... it was a actually while turning into autozone hahaha

Haha does this hill climb look familiar??? Keep in mind the tire came off the bead when I got winched from an angle because I was only running 15 psi.


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/10/55-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/09/downsized_0919001130-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/10/95-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/10/74-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/10/66-1.jpg



https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/10/83-1.jpg



https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/10/104-1.jpg



https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/09/0922000319-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/09/0922000148-1.jpg


https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2010/09/0922000031-1.jpg

[Sal-XK]

Ok you two love birds get a room in another thread LMFAO :D

[Matt]

Just bumping you to the top of the list buddy! :)

[06JeepXKHEMI]

this kind of made me laugh a bit hahaha dont know why i could just hear you saying "damn it I wish I had QDII"

[Core XK]

this kind of made me laugh a bit hahaha dont know why i could just hear you saying "damn it I wish I had QDII"

lol He will soon enough

[07JeepXK]

lol He will soon enough

Not quite. Refer to thread I'm about to make....

[Core XK]

Sal,

How do you like NC? my fiance and I vacationed there once and loved it

She is an RN and we always talk about relocating ;p

[Sal-XK]

Sal,

How do you like NC? my fiance and I vacationed there once and loved it

She is an RN and we always talk about relocating ;p

Beat place I ever lived! We have the beach, mountains and everything in between.

[Core XK]

Beat place I ever lived! We have the beach, mountains and everything in between.

Yeah we really want too as it is not TOO far away from family. I am finishing school and intend to apply for the police academy in Philly, Delaware, or NC ;p I just need to convince her 150%

[AJeepZJ]

I love NC... only one other place i'd live if not NC, and that'd be Texas.

[Core XK]

I love NC... only one other place i'd live if not NC, and that'd be Texas.

Didn't realize you were in NC as well....yeah I hope I can convince her after school ;p

[AJeepZJ]

Didn't realize you were in NC as well....yeah I hope I can convince her after school ;p


There are 4 or 5 active folks in here from Carolina.

[Matt]

Hey Sal, how have those Falken tires been treating ya?

[Sal-XK]

Hey Sal, how have those Falken tires been treating ya?

Doing good wearing evenly I've been putting a lot of highway miles on them. There real quit so that's a plus for sure and they did pretty good in the mud and sand as well so no complaints so far. I haven't really beaten them up on the rocks yet but sidewalls did good aired down to 12PSI.