Matt's Garage

[Core XK]

Fact of the matter is you can screw up your diff a green trail there. The other skids you can get by without

Yeah that is very true

[Synthetic Advantage]

Been busy reading up on "Matt's Garage". It has come a long way and looks great! :)

[Matt]

Thanks Nick. Hey you should check out my "mini me" RC build. ;)

[Matt]

One's all painted and ready to go

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120815184347-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120815184409-1.jpg

[stites-xk]

Nice man are those the RRO ones?

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[Matt]

Yup, they're the RRO version.

[07JeepXK]

That turned out really nice! Do you think there is a difference between the way JBA mounts their ball joint and the way RRO mounts theirs in regards to them being rotated 180 degrees?

[Matt]

No I think it just depends on how the arms are designed. What's interesting is the JBA website shows the balljoints in the same orientation as the RRO arms..... what orientation are yours in??

Also notable is the control arm bushings are not the same as the OEM bushings. I'll have to check with RRO to see what pn they actually used.

[Matt]

Adam, found your pics. I bet he had to rotate them 180 degrees like that for the 4" lift where the control arms probably contact the coil, so he pushed the tube sections out further and had to rotate the balljoint to position the welds.

[07JeepXK]

Adam, found your pics. I bet he had to rotate them 180 degrees like that for the 4" lift where the control arms probably contact the coil, so he pushed the tube sections out further and had to rotate the balljoint to position the welds.

When you say this which set of UCA's were you referring to?

[Matt]

The JBA arms. Looked at the difference from the pictures on the JBA site and the ones from your build thread.

To keep the balljoint in the same position but move the arms out wider, it looks like he rotated the balljoint.

[Matt]

Been slowly accruing parts for my rebuild... My buddy and I are going to split a set of the JBA front discos.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120818120615-1.jpg

[Core XK]

They will look really good when you put em on....especially with the diff. guard :p

[07JeepXK]

If you only had a set of RCV cv axles in that pile of parts!!

[Matt]

If you only had a set of RCV cv axles in that pile of parts!!

I wish i had a set of 7100's or MX-6R shocks in that pile of parts! lol I can hold off on the RCV axles; I'll put the superlift on before those :cool:

[Matt]

I dont like wheeling without front tow points and it looks like the steel bumper is put off until at least next summer... so I pulled a "corey" and spontaneously made a purchase without telling my wife (fiance in his case). Putting the SXC4x4 shackle mounts on.

[Core XK]

I dont like wheeling without front tow points and it looks like the steel bumper is put off until at least next summer... so I pulled a "corey" and spontaneously made a purchase without telling my wife (fiance in his case). Putting the SXC4x4 shackle mounts on.

lmao

[Matt]

lol figured you would get a kick out of that

[Core XK]

lol figured you would get a kick out of that

lol Well she did say I don't need to tell her about EVERY purchase.....just the big ones; SO......what I consider big and what she considers big is far apart :)

[stites-xk]

lol Well she did say I don't need to tell her about EVERY purchase.....just the big ones; SO......what I consider big and what she considers big is far apart :)

Same here! When you getting married?

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[Core XK]

Same here! When you getting married?

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Were looking at May 2014 right now. How about you?

[stites-xk]

The 31 of this month. Then we leave for Ireland the 3rd of September.

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[Core XK]

The 31 of this month. Then we leave for Ireland the 3rd of September.

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Very nice! congratulations man

We are both very Irish so Ireland sounds pretty sweet

[Core XK]

Matt im pretty stoked for Saturday. Do you like Sam Adams Cherry Wheat? lol....I have an ice cold six pack sitting in the fridge

[Sal-XK]

Matt im pretty stoked for Saturday. Do you like Sam Adams Cherry Wheat? lol....I have an ice cold six pack sitting in the fridge

Really man! you going to put an umbrella in your beer to :p

[Matt]

Matt im pretty stoked for Saturday. Do you like Sam Adams Cherry Wheat? lol....I have an ice cold six pack sitting in the fridge

While i'm one to NEVER turn down a beer someone offers me. If you ask, that's one of the few beers I actually can't drink (but my wife loves lol). I can't drink any of those cherry, rasberry, etc flavored beers.

[Core XK]

While i'm one to NEVER turn down a beer someone offers me. If you ask, that's one of the few beers I actually can't drink (but my wife loves lol). I can't drink any of those cherry, rasberry, etc flavored beers.

Well I actually just tried it for the first time on vacation down the shore so I brought a six pack home. Whats your favorite beer? I pretty much drink any beer you can think of lol

[Core XK]

Really man! you going to put an umbrella in your beer to :p

LMAO

[Matt]

Don't really have a favorite. .. some of my preferred beers are

Boddingtons
Dos Equis Amber
Sam's Lager
Land Shark
Guinness
Yuengling
Killians
Sam's imperial white <-----AWESOME!!
.... and about 20 more

[Matt]

.....lol basically nothing with fruit flavor... :)

[Core XK]

lol Yeah I have to agree with that list

I presume you have beer but if you want me to grab some just let me know. My fiancee does not drink beer (yet)....I am constantly buying different beers for her to try.

[Core XK]

.....lol basically nothing with fruit flavor... :)

lol I like my fruit flavored beers here and there....

Sal I will hold my beer and umbrella up high when fist pumping in the bar K!!!?

[Matt]

Only semi -fruit beer I like is the Summer Shandy.

Lol at least its not as bad as my buddy who once ordered a strawberry daccari (sp?)... even the bartender thought he was kidding.

[Matt]

cutting it close with the shackle mounts.... Fedex has estimated delivery on the 25th

[Matt]

Put my 1/2" lower spacer on today. Will put the other 1/2" upper spacer on when i swap out shocks.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120824160629-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120824161916-1.jpg

[Matt]

Also have to make sure the kids are riding in style!

[Matt]

Just got done:

New front sway bar links
New front sway bar bushings
Saguaro 4x4 Shackle mounts
Painted shackles (now me and mini-me match!)

.... uploading pics now

[Matt]

Quick review of the shackle mounts. They're well made and seem very sturdy. BUT, I didn't like how they mount to the frame rails with bolt/washer combo and NO reinforcement. So I took some of my left over 3/16" steel plate, cut out a few lengths, drilled the bolt holes and used them to reinforce the rails. Now the shackle will need to rip off my frame rail, not just pull through a few bolt heads (which is possible).

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120825164223-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120825164340-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120825185941-1.jpg

[Matt]

Now my shackles match :cool:

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120825193007-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/07/20120726222313-1.jpg


edit: ...... BUT i wish the shackles on the 1:1 were bigger! :p

[Sal-XK]

I had to do the same thing with my recovery hooks.

[Matt]

The other thing I didn't like about the shackle mounts is that they're tucked up too close to the bumper so the shackle pin interferes with the bumper and makes it a PITA to put on/take off. Luckily I have 2 more shackles so if I ever need to use these, I'll be using a second shackle to connect to the shackle thats already there.

Maybe they work better with the WK bumper... they definitely need to be ~1/2" lower for the XK.

[Matt]

Snapped a pic to show the issue:

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120826120514-1.jpg

[Core XK]

Blue was definitely a good last minute idea

[07JeepXK]

Umm why don't you just trim the bumper??

[Matt]

Umm why don't you just trim the bumper??

I'm going to. Just didn't want to pull my tools back out after working all day so forced them in.

[Sal-XK]

Yup no issue just opportunity to trim fat away :)

[Matt]

Actually now I'm thinking just leave it as is.... I have 2 more shackles the same size. So if I need to ill just go shackle to shackle. :)

[stites-xk]

Looks good! I dig the blue!

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[07JeepXK]

Actually now I'm thinking just leave it as is.... I have 2 more shackles the same size. So if I need to ill just go shackle to shackle. :)

That defeats the whole purpose of the shackle! Just trim the bumper.

[Matt]

It doesn't defeat the purpose at all. Now if I left them on and used a tow hook as the link, lol that would defeat the purpose.

[Holaday07 4.7]

Looks great man, I wish mine turned out as clean!

[Matt]

lol thanks man. funny thing is I haven't cleaned it since the last RC trip.... white just always looks clean in pictures!

[Matt]

I've been asked for these measurements so I'd figure i'd post them here.

Measured from center of hub up to bottom of fender flare:

Front (both sides) = 22"
Rear left = 22.5"
Rear right = 23"

Lift = OME HD + 1/4" strut spacers + F150 Load leveler shocks + custom 1/2" rear spring spacers
Notes = Full tank of gas, full line of skids/armor.

[AJeepZJ]

I've been asked for these measurements so I'd figure i'd post them here.

Measured from center of hub up to bottom of fender flare:

Front (both sides) = 22"
Rear left = 22.5"
Rear right = 23"

Lift = OME HD + 1/4" strut spacers + F150 Load leveler shocks + custom 1/2" rear spring spacers
Notes = Full tank of gas, full line of skids/armor.

Is that difference noticeable from the rear. I feel like a .5" is something i'd notice. But with a full tank of gas on the driver side it still makes sense.

[Matt]

Not at all. I actually went back and measured again just to be sure.

[Matt]

playing around.... what do you guys think?? (maybe swap the red for blue!)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/chrome_mo961_18x9_275_70_18_nttrg_001-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/9zwzub-1.jpg

[06JeepXKHEMI]

I like those wheels alot!!! Would like nice painted matte green on my XK!!

[Matt]

They come in 18x9 5.7" backspace which is a spec i've been eyeing up for the SL in the future. The 18" will mitigate the tie-rod issue and allow use of 5.7" backspace wheels, which makes 9" wide OK. Though 18x8.5 with 5.7" backspace would be ideal, i like these a lot.

Im half tempted to try selling my current setup to throw these on (and get some cost effective AT's to run until the SL goes on)

[Core XK]

I actually like your current wheels more then the motos :P

[Matt]

want to buy em?

[06JeepXKHEMI]

I thought these wouldnt fit cause they would rub with the OME???

[Core XK]

want to buy em?

I would but I can't swing it after all these skids ;p

[Matt]

I thought these wouldnt fit cause they would rub with the OME???

The 5.7" backspace is what helps them fit. BUT brings them close to the balljoint bolt so gotta be careful what width tire is run. I was thinking 265/65/18 or 265/70/18 (So i can catch up to Adam in diameter)


I would but I can't swing it after all these skids ;p

Wait till you get my bill

[Core XK]

The hard part is dealing with the headache from the fiance :)

[Matt]

Fiance needs to start hanging out with Serena...

[Matt]

FYI Serena wants me to order these wheels with Mickey Thompson ATZ's ($$$) right now. Im the one who has to remind her what our bank account look like :p

[Core XK]

Tell me about it...

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Well this changes alot from what I was thinking.. We can run wheels this size with a 265/70/18 and not have any rubbing??? HHMMMM

[07JeepXK]

Well this changes alot from what I was thinking.. We can run wheels this size with a 265/70/18 and not have any rubbing??? HHMMMM

That's a 33 inch tall tire Andrew. You would have lots of rubbing. But it would be perfect with a superlift.

[Matt]

Well this changes alot from what I was thinking.. We can run wheels this size with a 265/70/18 and not have any rubbing??? HHMMMM

No, i did not say that!

Must remove rear HVAC lines and will still rub. I was thinking of that size a "temp" until i have the SL+ and get some "real" tires on there. If I was planning on running this setup for the long term, 265/65/18 would be needed.

Edit: and also the 1/4" spacer in addition to the OME HD. Can't forget that!

[Core XK]

FYI Serena wants me to order these wheels with Mickey Thompson ATZ's ($$$) right now. Im the one who has to remind her what our bank account look like :p

Why don't you just let her take the XK to RC in October....i'm sure she'll let you ride along :)

[Matt]

Why don't you just let her take the XK to RC in October....i'm sure she'll let you ride along :)

Depending on weather.... she MIGHT be coming for at least one of the days. Thinking of having her drive there with my dad and wheel with us from lunch till close, then head home.

[Core XK]

That would be cool!

[Matt]

Think i've found the winning wheel for when i put on the SL...

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/FuelThrottle1-1.jpg

Having a friend photoshop them for me.

..... decided im not going to install the new control arms right now. No reason to tear apart the entire front suspension now if I'm seriously considering the SL in ~6 months from now. Might as well do it all at once.

[07JeepXK]

Your going to need them after this next trip to RC bwhahahaha

[Matt]

Your going to need them after this next trip to RC bwhahahaha

,,,,i hope so!

[07JeepXK]

I was referring to the control arms....

[Matt]

me too! lol

edit: gives me an excuse to order something earlier than planned

[Core XK]

I like those wheels better. Awww I was looking forward to ripping apart a front suspension for my 2nd time!! Lol

[Matt]

Yeah i think those wheels will fit my XK styling quite well. Can't wait to see the photoshop!

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/FuelThrottle2-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120819143019-1.jpg


Depending how much the superlift is going for.... maybe a tearing out a suspension sooner than later. :p

[07JeepXK]

You just want to have a 4 inch lift before me! Lol

[Matt]

You just want to have a 4 inch lift before me! Lol

Not going to lie.... that's a MAJOR reason why i'd get the kit earlier than "affordable" lol. Yes, i said it, i'm willing to go in debt just to spite you! hahaha

[07JeepXK]

Haha but you know as soon as you pull the trigger that will force me to do the same. So it will come down to who can get it installed faster. Haha

[Matt]

Once mine is confirmed as shipped, i'll have the XK in the garage and torn apart awaiting the pallet to arrive :p

[07JeepXK]

Same here with crossmember modification already done and RCV axles waiting patiently for the lift to arrive. Bwhahaha

[Matt]

Too bad you dont have QDII so i could grab your oem CVs as spares!

[07JeepXK]

Yea but I'm getting the QD II RCV axles because the front is getting the QD II differential.

[Core XK]

You just want to have a 4 inch lift before me! Lol


Not going to lie.... that's a MAJOR reason why i'd get the kit earlier than "affordable" lol. Yes, i said it, i'm willing to go in debt just to spite you! hahaha

lmao you guys are too funny

[Core XK]

Did you ever grab more of those black rivets for the wheel wall?

I am seriously thinking of removing the plastic rock rails and spraying the trim black until I get sliders :mad:

[07JeepXK]

Do it!!!!

[Core XK]

Wondering how it will look with some black paint or plasti-dip

[Matt]

Did you ever grab more of those black rivets for the wheel wall?

I am seriously thinking of removing the plastic rock rails and spraying the trim black until I get sliders :mad:

I didn't..... I can try ordering them now, maybe they'll get here in time

[Matt]

Wondering how it will look with some black paint or plasti-dip

Get yer own garage-thread :p

[Core XK]

Get yer own garage-thread :p

But I like being in your garage.....drinking your beer....sitting on your chair.....watching you take your front bumper off LOL

[Matt]

But I like being in your garage.....drinking your beer....sitting on your chair.....watching you take your front bumper off LOL

....and helping me up after i throw out my back.....

[Core XK]

Damn! I forgot to add that

[07JeepXK]

Wondering how it will look with some black paint or plasti-dip

Mine are painted with bedliner.....

[Core XK]

Mine are painted with bedliner.....

I'll see how it looks being silver but if the covering the holes makes it look odd maybe some black paint will blend with the other black components on the XK :P

[Core XK]

Think i've found the winning wheel for when i put on the SL...

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/FuelThrottle1-1.jpg

Having a friend photoshop them for me.

..... decided im not going to install the new control arms right now. No reason to tear apart the entire front suspension now if I'm seriously considering the SL in ~6 months from now. Might as well do it all at once.

I keep looking at these lol I can't wait to see them on your xk in person :p

[Matt]

lol i'm itchin really bad to see the photoshop!

The SL will have to be on long before those though. I'll be running around "tiny" tires for quite some time if I rush and try to beat Adam to the SL...

[Core XK]

Well with what others are saying the SL is on back back order? I'd hate to wait months for a lift.

I like your current wheels and these new ones because besides the sick design...it makes you not have to use spacers ;)

[Matt]

It's been on backorder since last April from what I can tell. So until I have more info, I'd have to think the kits should be ready soon. Regardless backorder isn't bad for me; as long as they dont charge my CC till it ships :p

[Core XK]

It's been on backorder since last April from what I can tell. So until I have more info, I'd have to think the kits should be ready soon. Regardless backorder isn't bad for me; as long as they dont charge my CC till it ships :p

Yeah....well hopefully it works out and you and Adam can get SL's!

Are the "rings" on your current wheels removable?

[Matt]

Are the "rings" on your current wheels removable?

Nope. BUT i've been planning on hitting them with a surface prep disc and plastidipping them! lol

[Core XK]

lol because there getting all roughed up from the trails?

[Matt]

They've taken their fair share of hits lol

[Core XK]

They've taken their fair share of hits lol

lol I bet

So whats our list this weekend!

[Matt]

lol I bet

So whats our list this weekend!

Our list? Jacob's spider gears and the installation of all the parts you had shipped to my house to hide them from your fiance! Might as well rip those plastic panels off too..... did you want to do your brakes?

[Core XK]

Our list? Jacob's spider gears and the installation of all the parts you had shipped to my house to hide them from your fiance! Might as well rip those plastic panels off too..... did you want to do your brakes?

That sounds good. I can't wait to see Jacob's new rig :P

I don't think I can swing new rotors/pads this weekend

[07JeepXK]

lol i'm itchin really bad to see the photoshop!

The SL will have to be on long before those though. I'll be running around "tiny" tires for quite some time if I rush and try to beat Adam to the SL...

Good thing I'm already running 33's so they will look awesome with the superlift. Well until I order 34 inch MT/Rs

[07JeepXK]

It's been on backorder since last April from what I can tell. So until I have more info, I'd have to think the kits should be ready soon. Regardless backorder isn't bad for me; as long as they dont charge my CC till it ships :p

They will charge your credit card as soon as you place the order. Then you will wait FOREVER!

[Core XK]

If Jacob's gears and the skids don't take too long maybe we can Plasti-Dip some Wheels? :D

[Matt]

Well Jacobs doing his own gears.... under my direction. I can work on your gas tank skid while you plastidip your wheels. Make sure your tank is almost empty!!

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Well Jacobs doing his own gears.... under my direction. I can work on your gas tank skid while you plastidip your wheels. Make sure your tank is almost empty!!

Yea dont be like me and have over 3/4s tank!!!

[Matt]

Lol I did mine by myself with over half a tank too. Just because it was a bit unplanned

[Core XK]

Well Jacobs doing his own gears.... under my direction. I can work on your gas tank skid while you plastidip your wheels. Make sure your tank is almost empty!!

lol Yeah It is almost empty now and I'll only put a little in to get me through the remainder of the week and to your house

lol @ Andrew

[Core XK]

We should still do a "How to" for the sunroof leakage :)

[Matt]

Did you write up a How-to for your tape method of temp repair? Lol

[Core XK]

Did you write up a How-to for your tape method of temp repair? Lol

With the sticky side up so the rain catches it? yeah I did..........................

[Matt]

Hahahahaha.
And get it right man.... its the sticky side up so IT catches the rain. ;)

[Core XK]

lmao

[07JeepXK]

Yea dont be like me and have over 3/4s tank!!!

Yeah that wasn't fun. Lol it's a lot easier when your almost on E.

[hoaxci5]

So it's a Saturday wrenching party huh? Beer requests? :p

[Matt]

So it's a Saturday wrenching party huh? Beer requests? :p

That it is! lol my vehicles the only one not getting worked on i guess....

Anything non-fruity :o

[hoaxci5]

If thats true we're going to get along just fine. :D

I don't love wheat beers, but just about anything else is great. I'm really missing having a house, I've been homebrewing for a few years, so once we settle in you guys will have to swing over to our place for some home brew.

[Matt]

..... will have to swing over to our place for some home brew.

Oh man, we're going to get along GREAT!!!!!!

[Core XK]

haha home brew really sounds good :P better then my umbrella beers.

Matt you know we COULD! rip apart your front suspension :)))

[Matt]

Matt you know we COULD! rip apart your front suspension :)))

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/smileyconfused013-1.gif

[Core XK]

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/smileyconfused013-1.gif

Don't treat your apprentice like that.

[Matt]

lol good times!

[Core XK]

lol good times!

Comical times....your basically doing a "mechanic for dummies" with me.....its GREAT! lol

[Matt]

Hey now dont go getting ahead of yourself.... I'll let you know when you're upgraded to "dummy" status! :p

[Core XK]

Hey now dont go getting ahead of yourself.... I'll let you know when you're upgraded to "dummy" status! :p

Remember this dummy will be holding your tools and will be near your XK.....I tend to get "shaky" hands ;)

[pjmjr508]

Remember this dummy will be holding your tools and will be near your XK.....I tend to get "shaky" hands ;)

:D

[Matt]

lol....that damn "dummy mafia" talk again. My rear grab handles are still there!!

[Core XK]

Waiting for the right moment...

[Core XK]

Whenever you get a chance can you let me know what/where the Airiad MIT Intake Tube Part # is? I am thinking of grabbing that soon since its not too much $$

[Matt]

Whenever you get a chance can you let me know what/where the Airiad MIT Intake Tube Part # is? I am thinking of grabbing that soon since its not too much $$

Its P/N 310-970

[Core XK]

Thanks. Both skids shipped today just a heads up :)

[Core XK]

How did everything go with Jacob and the XJ?

EDIT: P.S. did you notice my upgraded signature?? :eek:

[Matt]

Still had issues flat towing... looks like its an alignment issue. So I still have a toy Jeep to play with

[Core XK]

Damn that sucks.....jacob put a lot of work into that!

[Matt]

Yeah I know. Its still better than it was (sort of) and will drive around town better especially in s snow, and lockrights are a known issue for flat towing..... sooo it wasn't wasted work. Plus he knows how to tear apart his axle now.... but it was disappointing that he couldn't bring it home. :(

On the bright side it means we get to hang out again! And the next time he comes up we'll be dropping it off at a shop for an alignment so we'll plan something more fun to do with the families. :) (maybe 6 flags....)

[Core XK]

Yeah it will eventually be home with him lol and thats cool!

[hoaxci5]

Yea you guys were busy playing pretty pretty princess in pink, and I'm elbow deep in grease and diff oil. ;)

One day it will be "home" with me and I'll get to post a picture of the Jeep towing the Jeep.

[Matt]

Yea you guys were busy playing pretty pretty princess in pink, and I'm elbow deep in grease and diff oil. ;)


Hey now.... i didn't know you were practicing to be a politician!!!! LMAO I believe every time I tried to pick up a tool to help you, I got growled at and scolded lol

[Matt]

I need a sign for above my garage: "Matt's Mod Shop"

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/20120908162841-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/20120908142506-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/08/20120825114526-1.jpg

[Core XK]

X2 on the sign :p

[07JeepXK]

You guys didn't take the carrier out on the front end of Jacobs jeep did you??

[Matt]

You guys didn't take the carrier out on the front end of Jacobs jeep did you??

Yeah, took the lockright out and put standard spiders in. Needed to be done regardless and isn't hard to put back in if/when he wants to.

[07JeepXK]

So you just took out the lock right correct. Not the actual carrier it's self correct?

[Matt]

Your question has me perplexed...

We replaced lunchbox locker with spider gears. Hence, yes there is still a carrier in the case. You can't remove the carrier from a D30 since it acts as the support for the half shaft (ie the carrier bearings are the half shaft bearings). Without the carrier, the shafts would just flop around and break stuff.

[07JeepXK]

I understand that. I was asking if you took the carrier completely out to remove the lock right, and then put the carrier back in with the spider gears. From your responses it sound like the answer is no. The carrier it's self never came out. Just the guts inside i.e. (the lock right locker). I was asking because I know the carrier doesn't need to completely come out but thought a seen parts in the picture which led me to believe you took it out.

[Matt]

Ooooooohhhh....

Well then, that's different lol. YES the carrier had to be taken out because the ring gear was in the way of the king pin. One of the issues with these smaller diffs; simple jobs get a tad bit more complicated.

[07JeepXK]

So I take it you had to take the ring gear off the carrier to slide out the king pin to get the lock right out?

[Matt]

Exactly.

[07JeepXK]

Tracking!! I bet that was fun. So is Jacob bringing the Cherokee to RC?

[Matt]

Hopefully.... i bet its a beast on the trails!

[Matt]

Thinking of getting the ATZ's again after i put on a bigger lift.... I had them on my sierra and loved them:

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/512010018-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/33s002-1.jpg

^^Those were 305/55/20s. But they measured a lot bigger than their nominal size.

Just gotta find out what size this guy was running:

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/XK-1.jpg

[Core XK]

Nice man! I'll take your current wheels off you now :)

[Matt]

Looking at wheel options too.... i'm going with an 18" so I can run ~5.5" backspace and not have to worry about tie rod interference. Ideally i'd like 8.5" wide with 5.5" backspace to help run wider tires (keep them a bit further from the firewall).

Ultra Crusher: 18x8.5 with either 5.2" (+10mm) or 5.75" (+25mm) backspace

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/Ultra195CruserMachined-1.gif

Fuel Throttle: 18x9 with either 5.5" (+14mm) or 5.75" (+20mm) backspace

https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png

[Core XK]

I like Fuel Throttle better.

[07JeepXK]

Same here. Fuel Throttle

[Matt]

I like the "simpleness" of the Ultras... but the styling of the Fuels (minus the center cap).

Will continue searching...

[Matt]

Gear Alloy Dominator: 18x9 5.4" backspace (+10mm)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/17564-1.jpg

[Core XK]

I like your choices of wheels. All the silver will go awesome with my XK lol thats why I like your current ones with the silver ring

[T1RKaZz]

Gear Alloy Dominator: 18x9 5.4" backspace (+10mm)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/17564-1.jpg

I really like these where did you find them I think they would look pretty good with the silver areas painted the same red as the jeep

Sent from my HTC Sensation using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

found them at rimzoneonline.com

[Matt]

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/20120928175708-1.jpg

[pjmjr508]

Very clean looking sir

[Core XK]

NICE! now I won't be embaressed to park next to you at Englishtown tomorrow :)

[Matt]

lol you jerk.

I'm definitely getting the yakima tire mount and leaving that tire up there!

[pjmjr508]

I'm definitely getting the yakima tire mount and leaving that tire up there!

I have it & love it. It does not move at all.

[Matt]

glad to hear! How's the lock work?

[pjmjr508]

On top of the rim is a plate with a loop on it & the large wing nut that tightens tire has a loop as well. Run a lock thru both loops. It does double duty keeps it from coming loose & someone taking it.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/20120928175708-1.jpg

Looks awesome! Do you have any rubbing? Id like to see more pics

[Matt]

A bit of rubbing on the front fenderwell but that can be trimmed with a utility knife. Pinch weld area is good.... ~.25" clearance. Glad I got the 5.7 bs

[cabledog25]

They look really good Matt!

[Core XK]

How have you been liking the tires and wheels? any compliments?

[TrialByFire]

Looks great! I really like the touch of red.
Is the tie rod clearance ok?

[07JeepXK]

Looks great! I really like the touch of red.
Is the tie rod clearance ok?

You really can't compare his tie rod clearance to yours. Matt has oem steering knuckles. You have the superlift steering knuckles which raises the attachment point for the outer tie rod.

[Matt]

How have you been liking the tires and wheels? any compliments?

Like them a lot. We'll see how the tires handle wheeling at the end of the month. Not a lot of compliments because I don't drive the XK much during the week.


Looks great! I really like the touch of red.
Is the tie rod clearance ok?

Thanks!
Not sure how the tie rod clearance will be with the superlift but I expect it should be good based off your pictures... another 1/2" of clearance beyond what you had should be plenty

[Matt]

Put the Yakima tire mount on today. The bars must be a larger diameter than the yakima bars; although properly spaced, the hardware wasn't long enough. I drilled out the holes and used some 1/4-20 fasteners instead.

Just need to get a padlock now. Not that someone is likely to steal this thing.... but theres no reason not to put it on.

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/10/20121005165016-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/10/20121005165010-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/10/20121005165801-1.jpg

[pjmjr508]

Looks great, you will like how stable it is. When I was going thru the rock gardens not long ago the tire did not move at all. I am surprised that you had to replace the hardware. Mine fit just fine.

[Matt]

That is weird...maybe I got a pack with the wrong sized bolts.... wasn't a huge problem, 3 minutes with the drill and I was good.

If the superlift isn't available soon ill be going with the SA rear bumper so I don't expect it to be up there too long. I really need that room for cargo on family trips.

[NCCommander]

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/09/20120928175708-1.jpg

How did i miss this? Looks great! Out of curiosity....what did you do with your ATX wheels?

[Matt]

Thanks!

The ATXs went on one of my friend's commanders.

[NCCommander]

Thanks!

The ATXs went on one of my friend's commanders.

Ah word. What was the cause for the wheel/tire change out of curiosity?

[Matt]

Ah word. What was the cause for the wheel/tire change out of curiosity?

Long story short, prepping for the superlift. "Need" the 18s to run enough backspace for biggest tires possible and prevent rubbing on firewall

[NCCommander]

Long story short, prepping for the superlift. "Need" the 18s to run enough backspace for biggest tires possible and prevent rubbing on firewall

Sweet, cant wait to see it with the superlift.

[Matt]

Sweet, cant wait to see it with the superlift.

Me neither! Keeping my fingers crossed to see if/when they're available again.

[07JeepXK]

Me neither! Keeping my fingers crossed to see if/when they're available again.

Have you called lately to see what the word is on when it will be ready for purchase?

[Matt]

Have you called lately to see what the word is on when it will be ready for purchase?

Negative. I don't trust what they tell "consumers" so im waiting to hear from Jon (distributor) for availability. Not holding my breath though.

[07JeepXK]

That's why I always call before ordering online and say if its not ready to ship the same day I'm not ordering.

[Matt]

BAM, Commander's paid off!

Modding is also complete for the time being (other than rebuilding the front suspension, maybe next weekend, and putting on the RRO arms)... though I may need (yes, "need") a rear tire carrier to get the cargo space on top back. That'll depend on if I sell my Liberty, or if I trade it in on a bigger vehicle for the family.

[cabledog25]

Congrats man.

[07JeepXK]

Congrats.

[Matt]

Santa showed me one of my gifts early :) (for the rear, putting the rear sway bar back on)

https://theultimatejeep.com/notfound.png

[07JeepXK]

Nice. I love mine.

[Synthetic Advantage]

Well aren't you special Matt! :)

[Matt]

Well aren't you special Matt! :)

I have a direct link to the North Pole :cool:

[pjmjr508]

Nice

Enjoy them, I need to get a set for mine as well.

[Matt]

Just ordered some black polyethylene to make a new wind deflector for my Rola Rack. Never was a fan of how the standard deflector doesn't cover the full width.

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Nice, the roof racks are growing on me and I did some measurements looks like I could still fit in the garage with one.. Just not completely sold on it yet..

[pjmjr508]

Nice I want to the replace the deflector on my rola as well.

[Matt]

Well I ordered the stuff I needed yesterday and it showed up today! I'll probably take the rack off today after my sons doctor apt and make the new deflector tonight/tomorrow.

Might end up rebuilding my front end on Monday too now that I have more fender rivets (they were part of my order)

[Sal-XK]

I made mine out of metal so when I hit it again it bends vs shattering LOL

[Matt]

Im making mine out of 1/8" thick plastic. It only spans about 3" since the front bars on the Rola are so thick, so it'd have to take one hell of a hit to shatter it!

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2011/12/20111214182445-1.jpg

[Matt]

Another mod in the books.

LINK HERE:
http://www.theultimatejeep.com/showthread.php?2209-New-Rola-Rack-wind-deflector

[Matt]

Time to put the new UCA and LCA's on...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DS0UgqKrAuk&feature=share&list=UUbRk80zT91PQZLEAwtMrV2w

[07JeepXK]

Yeah id say so!

[Matt]

Fully loaded commander today! Bringing my sons jeep to my parents and dropping off my in-laws Christmas present (44" fire pit)

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/12/20121223_105526-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/12/20121223_105541-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2012/12/20121223_105617-1.jpg

[DetroitMarauder]

A Jeep on a Jeep. It's like art, or something.

Hope you don't have to go under any low bridges!

[Matt]

Lol I got some good looks on the highway

[Matt]

Decided my skids needed to be cleaned..... then saw the fresh paint sitting on the shelf in the garage and couldn't help myself lol

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2013/01/20130111111731_zps035c354b-1.jpg

[Matt]

As long as my front end noise doesn't come back, I'll be able to get a good flex shot of the skids at RC next month!

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2013/01/20130111152414_zps9e35952d-1.jpg

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2013/01/20130111152442_zpsdcd1ec09-1.jpg

[pjmjr508]

Nice
BTW it looks like those skids need to be used, no dents or carnage. Yes I know you just painted them but looks like they are new.

[07JeepXK]

They look a little bent. I can assure you that they have been used! Lol

[Matt]

lol yeah they're in a lot worse shape than what the pictures show.

The front suspension skid is bent so far upwards I had to pry it down so it stopped making contact with the differential. The belly guard is all sorts of beat up and if you look closely you can see where the main section is bashed inwards. Not to mention some serious gauges. The transmission skid is basically like i springboard and is also bent upwards. Made it hard to get the holes to line back up... but again its a thin skid that I was able to bend back close enough.

[pjmjr508]

lol I was kidding lol, I understand; should see mine.

[Core XK]

Skids look great man!! Good move on painting them

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

All cleaned up... finally!

https://theultimatejeep.com/images/imported/2013/02/20130215115807_zpsdf308e36-1.jpg

[lekmedm]

Very nice, but she looks a bit nekkid out front without the extra lights. :D

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

That's true :(

But someday it'll have the SA front bumper/winch to fix that :cool:

[lekmedm]

Yeah, that'll look slick...!

[cabledog25]

Yeah, cant wait to see that thing with SA bumpers Matt

[stites-xk]

X2!

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[mrnavy2]

Matt, those painted skids look great painted.

[Matt]

Thanks Steve :cool:

By the way... when are we putting your brakes on? I'm ready when you are, and even got a new brake bleed kit so we can change out your fluid easier too :)

[lekmedm]

Oooohhh... Which bleed kit did you get? I've been eyeing the Motives Products kit. Do you have any first-hand experience with any kit?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

I used to work with an awesome air powered version at work... but that thing would be overkill for the "every once in a while" i'll be bleeding brakes at home. Been pleased with mityvac products so I got the Mityvac MV8000 kit. Figured i'll test it out on Steve's XK when I do his brakes.

[mrnavy2]

Matt how about the weekend after next? Saturday or Sunday? Up to u Brother. How of much fluid u want me to get and what kind?

[Matt]

I'm actually pretty busy that weekend... I'm good next weekend or the 9th/10th.

[mrnavy2]

I'm actually pretty busy that weekend... I'm good next weekend or the 9th/10th.
Roger that, we can do the 9th. Ok?

[Matt]

Roger that, we can do the 9th. Ok?

Sounds good brother. And you don't need to bring anything... I'll get the fluid.

[mrnavy2]

Sounds good brother. And you don't need to bring anything... I'll get the fluid.

Roger that. See u then.

[Core XK]

Hey man!

How are you and the family??

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

Doing good man. Been busy as hell but you know how it goes!

Hows the wedding planning?

[Core XK]

Doing good man. Been busy as hell but you know how it goes!

Hows the wedding planning?

Good man we just booked the hall and the church last week. Now it's all in her hands for the fine details.

Crazy busy with school and what not but hoping to join you guys soon for a trip!!!!!! (of greens) lol

[Matt]

Lol I hear ya about the business!

You'll have to come over to help me put my shocks on when they come in. :)

[T1RKaZz]

Sent from my HTC Sensation using Tapatalk 2

Off topic of the shocks but I just got the same Rola rack as you how would you in all of you engineering cleverness mount some light on the front of it

[Matt]

What kind of lights are you going for?

[T1RKaZz]

I got 4 of these http://tuffledlights.com/products/led-work-lamp-flood-light-10-30v-27w-square/ but I picked them up for 60 bucks for all 4 they're floods but they're pretty bright gonna pick up 2 spot lights from ridged for the middle was planning on cutting the fareing to cover the outside of the rack and throwing 2 floods on the outside the 2 spots in the middle and 2 floods on the back of the rack I live in the desert so drilling the rack isn't a problem cause nothing rusts out here and I'd still rust treat and bed line the area cause kc mounts are 20 a pop and I'm not gonna cash out 80 bucks for mounts cause I see no logic on spending more than the lights are worth for mounts

Sent from my HTC Sensation using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

man for something like those i'd probably just get longer bolts and drill straight through the tubes. use some RTV or silicone to seal up the hole when you mount it and you're set.

[T1RKaZz]

Lol that's exactly what I did

Sent from my HTC Sensation using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

Lol that's exactly what I did

Sent from my HTC Sensation using Tapatalk 2

Lol right on man! Sometimes "less" is "more" ;)

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Matt, What's up with your shocks man?!?

Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2

[Matt]

I sent FOX an email yesterday asking for an ETA. I was told that custom built usually take 2-3 weeks. We're in week 3. Hoping I have them by next week

[06JeepXKHEMI]

Nice, Im impatient haha I couldnt deal with that long of a wait!! I flexed mine yesterday again, definitely need to get those rear sway discos on, I had a couple inches to go before the compressed side was fully compressed and the other side tire was off the ground..

[Matt]

I also ordered new shock bolts that have cut threads instead of rolled threads. These will eliminate the need for tape since the shoulder is a full 12mm diameter