Weekender expeditioner from colorado LJ Rubicon

[wardrow]

Hello all. my wife and I have been avid tent campers for years. since I have been at my new job for the last two years I have met a guy at work that introduced met to this web site and expedition travel. I have been lurking around in the visitor section for a while now. Long story short my wife and I have had it with sleeping on the ground. Recently I decided to purchase my friend at works maggiolina extreme Roof top tent and ezee-awn. I must say that this is luxury Jeep camping at is'ts best. I have attached pictures from our maiden voyage. :victory:
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[deadbeat son]

Nice setup! One thing concerns me with the idea of a RTT...how do you get the dog into the tent? I'm sure my husky won't climb the ladder, and I don't think she'll let me carry her either. I don't think the wife would be satisfied with the idea of leaving her in the truck...

[wardrow]

Nice setup! One thing concerns me with the idea of a RTT...how do you get the dog into the tent? I'm sure my husky won't climb the ladder, and I don't think she'll let me carry her either. I don't think the wife would be satisfied with the idea of leaving her in the truck...

Our two dogs (the bulldog in the pictures and a beagle) sleep in the Jeep without problems. Couldn't imagine lugging 55 pounds of bulldog up the ladder. :)

[shamus275]

The look on your bulldog's face is awesome!

[XJeeper]

Very nice setup. I always loved the LJs and that Fat Tire could come in handy too.

[TreeTopFlyer]

Nice rig, always liked the LJ. I like all the rack space too.

[jamm]

Nice setup!

Can you tell me more about your rear bumper? It looks like it latches with a regular automotive door striker. I like the way the gas cans are attached which lets the spare get closer to the rear of the jeep.

[Root Moose]

Sharp eye!

Yeah, info please.

:)

[97tjguzzy]

looks like the old jeeperman bumpers latch mechanism, but they have been out of business for a few years.

[97tjguzzy]

actually just found them, its a rockhard4x4, they started making a similar design right about when jeeperman went under

http://www.rockhard4x4parts.com/images/TJ-REAR/066_66.jpg

http://www.rockhard4x4parts.com/rearbumper.html

[86cj]

Welcome to the portal!!

I have wanted to see a Maggiolina Extreme on a LJ for a long time now. My measurements said it would be a perfect fit, but a pic says a thousand words...... Thanks for posting....................

Congrats on your choice of equipment, nicley done for sure....

[JIMBO]

:sombrero: Welcome, That looks like a very capable off-road setup

Evidentally, the rack supports you guys, OK ???

Have you driven that jeep during the summer, without engine/xmission temp. troubles???

I've never seen the storage of a jerry can right in front of the radiator, it wouldn't work in California/Nevada, where the ambiant temp can get to 115/120 deg

Kewl outfit-

:costumed-smiley-007:safari-rig::safari-rig: JIMBO

[Desert Dan]

Nice Jeep and RTT and side tent.

What kind of table is that?

[Momrocks]

Wow, great set up you've got there. My dog is so jealous of the luxury your's has. I think she want's to go back to the pound and roll the dice on another owner.

Since we're playing twenty questions with you, where did those slim, blue Rubbermaid (coolers?) come from. They look great for tucking into some of those almost usable spaces. My pack outs are tight, these look like they could give me some flexability...do tell more.

[ExpoMike]

Nice rig and setup. Welcome and thanks for sharing.

[whitecon]

Another question for you. What type of rack system is supporting your RTT?
BTW nice setup! I've beeen trying to find pics of that exact setup on an LJ.

[wardrow]

:sombrero: Welcome, That looks like a very capable off-road setup

Evidentally, the rack supports you guys, OK ???

Have you driven that jeep during the summer, without engine/xmission temp. troubles???

I've never seen the storage of a jerry can right in front of the radiator, it wouldn't work in California/Nevada, where the ambiant temp can get to 115/120 deg

Kewl outfit-

:costumed-smiley-007:safari-rig::safari-rig: JIMBO

The rack is a Kargo master Congo cage and has held up quite well.

No problems with the jerry can here, but it is considerably cooler in CO. We would have a winch there, but our electric burned out earlier this year. SO...until we can afford a new winch, the can rides there.

[wardrow]

Nice Jeep and RTT and side tent.

What kind of table is that?

It's the REI camp kitchen in aluminum. It sells for $119 on their site. So far, it's awesome! Folds down fairly compact and has traveled well. :coffeedrink:

[wardrow]

Wow, great set up you've got there. My dog is so jealous of the luxury your's has. I think she want's to go back to the pound and roll the dice on another owner.

Since we're playing twenty questions with you, where did those slim, blue Rubbermaid (coolers?) come from. They look great for tucking into some of those almost usable spaces. My pack outs are tight, these look like they could give me some flexability...do tell more.

Bought the coolers at REI a couple of years ago for about $20 each. They hold up well and fit perfectly on the tire carrier rack. We have definitely outgrown them, and will soon be stepping up to an Engel 35 for our longer trips.

[Lumberjack]

Very nice! Question... How has the weight of the tent affected the trail handling?

Dennis

[Funrover]

Great setup, glad to see it being used!

[wardrow]

Very nice! Question... How has the weight of the tent affected the trail handling?

Dennis

We are running a stock suspension and the extra weight of the tent along with the rack and our heavy duty body armor has maxed it out. The next mod is a suspension upgrade.

[FourByLand]

What do you think you will go with?

[The Swiss]

Congrats, your Rubi looks great!

And welcome to the board!

[wardrow]

What do you think you will go with?

We've been looking at a Terra Flex Enduro LCG suspension with AEV progressive rate springs, Billstein 5100 shocks, Currie steering linkage upgrade, rear Currie anti-rock sway bar, front Terra Flex dual rate sway bar, and 255 85 R16 BFG KM2's.

[nwoods]

We've been looking at a Terra Flex Enduro LCG suspension with AEV progressive rate springs, Billstein 5100 shocks, Currie steering linkage upgrade, rear Currie anti-rock sway bar, front Terra Flex dual rate sway bar, and 255 85 R16 BFG KM2's.

That's a pretty significant upgrade. Seriously think about a tummy tuck while you're at it. I just recently upgraded to the AEV progressive springs in the rear of my LJ, and it's made a huge improvement.

[wardrow]

That's a pretty significant upgrade. Seriously think about a tummy tuck while you're at it. I just recently upgraded to the AEV progressive springs in the rear of my LJ, and it's made a huge improvement.
I for got to mention that I already have the terraflex belly up skid plate, and body lift, and motor mount lift. this cuts down on the price of the enduro lcg lift.

Thanks for all the replies, Great site here.

[Ford Prefect]

Very nice set up.

Just thought I would chime in here.

Most in Colorado know this already, but others may not.

Raingler Nets
Rockhard4x4
and
Jeeperman bumpers

They are all one company. Anyhow, as I understand it they eventually sold out and the new folks stopped selling under the jeeperman name, but still sell all the same stuff. You can still find it all online. Never seen a bolt in cage before or since, but I sure like the idea...

[ccarley]

We've been looking at a Terra Flex Enduro LCG suspension with AEV progressive rate springs, Billstein 5100 shocks, Currie steering linkage upgrade, rear Currie anti-rock sway bar, front Terra Flex dual rate sway bar, and 255 85 R16 BFG KM2's.

That sounds like a great suspension setup! I was hesitant about purchasing Bilstein 5125's for my Wagoneer, but I wouldn't go with anything else now.

That looks like an awesome overall setup you have. One of these days... I may get a RTT for my Wagoneer. I still don't mind sleeping on the ground, but my wife is wanting to "move up" to sleeping in the Jeep.

Good luck with your LJ, it looks great!

[Backwoods Rambler]

I think I've seen you on I-76 (near the hwy 85 exit) several times while heading into work from Brighton. If you had an lifted blue/purple XJ driving around you that was probably me checking out your setup. I gave you the thumbs up, but you were more focused on driving than me :snorkel:

QUESTION: Is having a RTT worth not being able to drop the top or flip up the "sunroof" ?

[4Rescue]

Welcome welcome!!!! I Love those LJ's and it looks ike you've got a fine example of one. Enjoy the Expo mate, there's alot of resources here.

Cheers

Dave

[jeepmedic46]

That rig looks great, Very capable.:smiley_drive:

[BPage]

Outstanding setup! I am envious. Keep it up and look forward to stealling some ideas from you in the future! :bike_rider:

[wardrow]

I think I've seen you on I-76 (near the hwy 85 exit) several times while heading into work from Brighton. If you had an lifted blue/purple XJ driving around you that was probably me checking out your setup. I gave you the thumbs up, but you were more focused on driving than me :snorkel:

QUESTION: Is having a RTT worth not being able to drop the top or flip up the "sunroof" ?

Yes you have seen me. I work in Brighton. Do you have a rock frogs sticker?

I don't mind not dropping the soft top, in fact I am going to one of these later this winter after the suspension is done. :wings:

http://www.rallytops.com/jeep/unlimited.html

[cosmiccharlie]

Nice setup!

Now, send me some Fat Tire! (Can't get it here in AL) :friday:

[Backwoods Rambler]

Yes you have seen me. I work in Brighton. Do you have a rock frogs sticker?

I don't mind not dropping the soft top, in fact I am going to one of these later this winter after the suspension is done. :wings:

http://www.rallytops.com/jeep/unlimited.html

Yes, Rockfrogs, that was me :costumed-smiley-007

That Rally Top looks like a decent solution since it gives you a quick sunroof & and partially removable top like the new JK's. I like that.

I'm a huge fan of TJ Unlimited Rubicon's and I absolutely LOVE the Impact Orange! :drool:

I sent you a PM :ylsmoke:

[wardrow]

With many months of hard saving, we've FINALLY been able to start on some much needed upgrades. Unfortunately, I don't have a shop to do the work myself, so the guys at Rokmen are hard at work installing the following:
*AEV 3" progressive springs
*Acos rear adjustable spring spacers
*Billstein 5100's
*Heavy duty track bars, front and rear
*Set of 8 Rokmen control arms, double johnny-jointed
*Curry heavy duty stearing
*OME stearing stabilizer
*ORO Sway-lock manual lever
*Custom drive shaft
*Stainless steel brake lines
*Rokmen full coverage front bumper
*Rokmen rock sliders
*Rokmen custom fabrication of: strengthening of rear frame side control arm brackets and set of custom plates for the interface between the Acos spacer and AEV springs (FYI the Acos system will not work as sold from the factory with the AEV progressive rate springs), and rear spring perch relocation

Here are a couple of shop photos. Jeep should be done sometime next week :wings:
35442

35443

35444

Next up are a set of BFG KM2 255/85/R16's

[nwoods]

Sweet! I am not familar with the "ORO Sway-lock manual lever", but I have the ORO pneumatic sway bar disconnect system and it's terrific

[Backwoods Rambler]

Right on Wade! Looks good so far & it sounds like it will be a solid setup! :victory:

[wardrow]

Sweet! I am not familar with the "ORO Sway-lock manual lever", but I have the ORO pneumatic sway bar disconnect system and it's terrific


I was wondering how you like the adjustably of the oro?

[wardrow]

Right on Wade! Looks good so far & it sounds like it will be a solid setup! :victory:


Thanks, J.D. Hope to go and test it out soon. Maybe you want to go with?:smiley_drive:

[nwoods]

I was wondering how you like the adjustably of the oro?

Well, I don't know. At install, it was set for a desired range of motion, and its never moved since. However, I love pushing a switch inside the cabin and having it "whooshick" and tripling my articulation, all while on the fly.

[wardrow]

Thanks.:drool:

[Backwoods Rambler]

Is the manual version upgradable to the pneumatic version?

[Backwoods Rambler]

Thanks, J.D. Hope to go and test it out soon. Maybe you want to go with?:smiley_drive:

Definitely, if my Jeep is done.

I'll be working on it this weekend, if everything goes smoothly it will be driveable again, but I still need to get my TnT trac bar bracket before this round of upgrades is truely done.

[wardrow]

Is the manual version upgradable to the pneumatic version?

as far as I know yes.

[wardrow]

Well, here she is after all the upgrades... :victory:
37140

37141

Look here for pictures of the storage system:
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=554936#post554936

[hey you]

Great looking LJ.

Did you have to make plates for both the front and rear springs? What height are your ACOS set at? Have you taken this off-road yet and how is it handling?

This is similar to the blueprint I have for my 06 LJ. Keep up the good work and I will be keeping a close eye on your build.

[wardrow]

Great looking LJ.

Did you have to make plates for both the front and rear springs? What height are your ACOS set at? Have you taken this off-road yet and how is it handling?

This is similar to the blueprint I have for my 06 LJ. Keep up the good work and I will be keeping a close eye on your build.

Thanks for the nice comments. Did not have to make plates for the front springs because there is no front spacer. My rear ACOS is barely adjusted (maybe 1/2") but having loaded down the Jeep, I'm considering raising it another 1/4". The only reason we put the ACOS on the rear was because the rear spring perch relocation had lost some of the factory height with the 3" AEV spring.

The Jeep is pretty much done being built with the exception of gears and cromo axles, a front winch, and a hot water shower. I just go back today from Utah near the Goblin Valley. I took it off road for a few hundred miles, but didn't get to do any hard-core wheeling to flex out the suspension. Believe it or not, just west of Goblin Valley, there's probably 1 foot of snow right now.:coffeedrink:

[-JD-]

Thanks for the nice comments. Did not have to make plates for the front springs because there is no front spacer. My rear ACOS is barely adjusted (maybe 1/2") but having loaded down the Jeep, I'm considering raising it another 1/4". The only reason we put the ACOS on the rear was because the rear spring perch relocation had lost some of the factory height with the 3" AEV spring.

The Jeep is pretty much done being built with the exception of gears and cromo axles, a front winch, and a hot water shower. I just go back today from Utah near the Goblin Valley. I took it off road for a few hundred miles, but didn't get to do any hard-core wheeling to flex out the suspension. Believe it or not, just west of Goblin Valley, there's probably 1 foot of snow right now.:coffeedrink:

Your rig looks like a great setup. I've got an LJ Rubi too, and am looking to do something similar - you're giving me lots of ideas.

I especially like the Jerry can holders - Great use of space, for LCG, and for weight distribution too. Did you mount them at that height for obstacle clearance or some other reason?

I was also considering the AEV spring with the ACOSs for the rear, but was unaware of the incompatibility. Taking it to Rockmen is not a realistic option (close to 2K each way). Pics of the adapter setup would be much appreciated sometime if you get around to it.

[Backwoods Rambler]

...

Hey that's my name :bigbossHL:

There aint room in this town for 2 of us... :PROFSheriffHL:

j/k :shakin:

[ddog45]

Hey Im up in longmont rokmen makes some sweet stuff and do great work. Let me know if you ever want to ever go glamping. I was just talking to Dave about your springs and acos Im in the same spot with suspension and trying to figure out what is best.

[wardrow]

Hey Im up in longmont rokmen makes some sweet stuff and do great work. Let me know if you ever want to ever go glamping. I was just talking to Dave about your springs and acos Im in the same spot with suspension and trying to figure out what is best.

I've been really happy with my set-up. Jeff originally recommended his OME set-up to me. Having followed all the forums for many months and seeing the sheer amount of people swapping out their OME set-ups for the AEV set-up, I decided to start out with the AEV and the Billstein shocks because my rig is frankly way heavier than the average. As far as Rokmen goes, their quality of work is superb and the craftsmanship is top-notch.

[wardrow]

Your rig looks like a great setup. I've got an LJ Rubi too, and am looking to do something similar - you're giving me lots of ideas.

I especially like the Jerry can holders - Great use of space, for LCG, and for weight distribution too. Did you mount them at that height for obstacle clearance or some other reason?

I was also considering the AEV spring with the ACOSs for the rear, but was unaware of the incompatibility. Taking it to Rockmen is not a realistic option (close to 2K each way). Pics of the adapter setup would be much appreciated sometime if you get around to it.

1. I mounted the water can holders near the front for weight distribution, and frankly couldn't find another place to mount them.

2. I stand corrected, my acos are not cranked up at all, here are some pics

[nwoods]

Having followed all the forums for many months and seeing the sheer amount of people swapping out their OME set-ups for the AEV set-up, I decided to start out with the AEV

I'm one of them. Very happy with my 4.5" AEV progressive springs and rear spring relocation brackets.

[wardrow]

I have been driving the Jeep around with the new suspension for about a year now. I am very happy with the suspension durability. However, the SHEER WEIGHT of the vehicle is taking its toll on the AEV 3" progressive springs. I bottom out most of the time off-road and the on road drive-ability is horrible. Even a slight cross-breeze makes you feel like you'll be blown off the road. We tried the Air Lift rear air springs which greatly improved the ride quality. However, the product is not very durable. I severed two air lines with the lines wrapped in looming within two weeks of buying the system. This was just with 10 days in Death Valley on washboards, no heavy wheeling. I couldn't rely on this for any extended expedition travels.

Now, we are to the point of having custom springs fabricated. It seems that there really is nothing out there for these very heavy rigs that provides good drive-ability and off-road performance. I contacted Robert at National Spring and the very first words out of his mouth were "weigh the vehicle". We plan to put everything we can think of that would be needed for an extended trip into the vehicle and have it weighed. This will provide the accurate weight for him to build custom springs. Costs are $325-$425 per set and they take about 4 weeks to manufacture. We'll keep you posted regarding performance, service, etc. I am just doing the rear springs, the front AEV springs keep the front rock solid.

[Bigjerm]

Your LJ looks awesome. I drive an LJ as well (non Rubi) and mine is being built towards the offroad part more than the expo but still wanting some expo in it. I am sitting at a crossroads right now with the build and maybe you can help. Given your weight issues now do you think if you could go back to the start of your build would you have sprung for an offroad trailer? Maybe not an $8k setup with kitchen and RTT but like a Pikes Peak trailer to carry a lot of the gear?

[wardrow]

I would not change a thing, I love the mobility and off road prowess I have with the LJ set up completely self sufficient.

[Doin_It]

I see you were just on.........what happened to some of the original pics, I see you took them off. Do your dogs know they aren't on the web anymore? Do you still have the pics and willing to post them back on? Thanks.

[wardrow]

I don't know what happened to the original pics. I just went back and re-posted some on page one. Is there anything else you want to see?

[86cj]

I would not change a thing, I love the mobility and off road prowess I have with the LJ set up completely self sufficient.

I agree the LJ can be comfortable enough to handle thousands of miles in a few days on the freeway, I have went 850 and 1000 miles only stopping for gas and food.

Our LJ will carry enough gear for two people to stay in the woods for 3-5 days on average with no cumbersome trailer. The most I have spent is 17 days in a row living out of ours.

I run BDS 3" springs now with rear Air lift bags, I have a set of AEV 3" springs ready to install. I am going to put the bags in the springs again, unless some Air Bumps get welded on.

I have really been considering a new rear axle and wonder if I should look into a Leaf spring set up and ditch the links and coils in the rear. I am always loaded so empty ride is not a concern, I would go spring under just like a J8. The LJ frame length after the gas tank could keep the shackle from sticking out past the bumper. I like the coil spring ride but hate the rear steer wiggle, it feels un-refined to say the least.

A custom leaf set up could be just what Expo LJ's need out back.............

[ccarm]

I also have logged some terribly long trips in my LJ...1000, 1200 miles in a day or two. They're comfortable, for a jeep wrangler, and have more than enough room for two people's stuff. Love the maggiolina RTT, it fits perfectly. Also, the jerry can design looks like something transplanted from the willys jeeps in WWII. Well done.

[Haggis]

Thanks for the update wardrow. I've always liked the way you've set up your LJ. I'm probably gonna have to swap rear springs on our LJ soon and was thinking of using the AEV 3 inchers. Now I don't have nearly as heavy a rig as yours appears, so do you think the AEVs would hold fine on a lesser weight LJ?

[klaykrusher]

I've been using the AEV 3" for a while. I don't carry near the weight of wardrow, and mine are holding up fine. I would definitely recommend them over a non-progressive for the LJ.

[wardrow]

Hey guys, I loved my AEV springs for about the first 6 months! The problem I am having and many of you will also is that the "PROGRESSIVE" wound part of the spring completely collapses and the rear of the jeep feels like your driving on noodles. I would love to have a rear leaf spring set up, but I have already got reinforced control arm mounts with a full rokmen control arm system with johnny joints ready for Dana 60's. If I had any idea my jeep was going to end up so heavy, I would have gone the route of rear leaf springs. If any of you foresee a fridge, RTT, gerry cans, safari tank, or armor in your future, I would stay away from mass produced coils made buy anybody and jump strait to custom or a leaf swap!

just my experience. :smiley_drive:

[AEV Conversions]

U guys do know we make a "B" rate rear spring specifically for heavy unlimited's and Brutes? They are made in both 3.0" and 4.5".

dh

[Jim K in PA]

Hey guys, I loved my AEV springs for about the first 6 months! The problem I am having and many of you will also is that the "PROGRESSIVE" wound part of the spring completely collapses and the rear of the jeep feels like your driving on noodles. I would love to have a rear leaf spring set up, but I have already got reinforced control arm mounts with a full rokmen control arm system with johnny joints ready for Dana 60's. If I had any idea my jeep was going to end up so heavy, I would have gone the route of rear leaf springs. If any of you foresee a fridge, RTT, gerry cans, safari tank, or armor in your future, I would stay away from mass produced coils made buy anybody and jump strait to custom or a leaf swap!

just my experience. :smiley_drive:

Wardrow - great write up and build up. I was considering the AEV progressives until I calculated my total trip weight. I am looking at something around 6000# when I am fully loaded. Did you ever weigh your rig?

I am seriously considering a set of air springs for my LJ Rubicon. I do not want the automatic leveling setup that ORO sells, just a 4-channel pressure based system. I think the Firestone bags are up to the task, but have to get the specs for them. My rig is also my DD, so I would like to be able to ramp the rate up/down as needed.

[Jim K in PA]

U guys do know we make a "B" rate rear spring specifically for heavy unlimited's and Brutes? They are made in both 3.0" and 4.5".

dh

Could you post the springs rates for the "standard" progessive 3" springs and the "B"rated springs?

[-JD-]

1. I mounted the water can holders near the front for weight distribution, and frankly couldn't find another place to mount them.

2. I stand corrected, my acos are not cranked up at all, here are some pics
Wardrow, belated thanks for the pics! Suspension work starts in March.

[-JD-]

U guys do know we make a "B" rate rear spring specifically for heavy unlimited's and Brutes? They are made in both 3.0" and 4.5".

dh
Ok, is that the
TJ Unlimited (103.4") Rear 3.0" that I ordered from the dropdown, or are the "B" rates a special order item?

[wardrow]

U guys do know we make a "B" rate rear spring specifically for heavy unlimited's and Brutes? They are made in both 3.0" and 4.5".

dh

I have the "B" rate springs! I did get my Jeep weighed, 5,800 LBS, Before Gerry cans, Wife, Dogs and food in the Engel 45, and a weight of 3,700 rear axle. The "B" rate springs can handle this weight only if its for short periods of time, but you will squat and your Jeep handle like crap. If I didn't have a base weight of 5,800 LBS I am quit sure my "B" rate springs would do just fine. My custom coils are on order and I will let everyone know how they work.

[wardrow]

Wardrow - great write up and build up. I was considering the AEV progressives until I calculated my total trip weight. I am looking at something around 6000# when I am fully loaded. Did you ever weigh your rig?

I am seriously considering a set of air springs for my LJ Rubicon. I do not want the automatic leveling setup that ORO sells, just a 4-channel pressure based system. I think the Firestone bags are up to the task, but have to get the specs for them. My rig is also my DD, so I would like to be able to ramp the rate up/down as needed.

I tried a set of 'inside spring air bags'. I took the Jeep to Death Valley and let me tell how nicely it improved the ride on the way down their from Montana! But, the wash board roads and mild trails of Death Vally caused my air lines to split wide open, leaving the bags worthless! The inside spring air bags call for you to drill a 3/4" hole in the base spring perch, I drilled my out to 1" and I even wrapped the air line in 1/4" electric looming and still tore up the lines.

The problem with this application is that the bags are made to stay on the bottom wounds of the spring and under a semi constant load. The failure of the springs comes in when you "FLEX" your suspension, causing the spring to "HOLD ON TO THE AIR BAG" and in essence it puts a strong pull on the air lines, causing them to weaken. I flexed my jeep out to max during my install so I could compensate for airbag travel and allowed for adequate excess air line, but the lines still broke. I think the airbags are a great idea but just not for off-road use. Personally, I would stay away from anything AIR related for the suspension in an expedition rig.

[Jim K in PA]

I tried a set of 'inside spring air bags'. I took the Jeep to Death Valley and let me tell how nicely it improved the ride on the way down their from Montana! But, the wash board roads and mild trails of Death Vally caused my air lines to split wide open, leaving the bags worthless! The inside spring air bags call for you to drill a 3/4" hole in the base spring perch, I drilled my out to 1" and I even wrapped the air line in 1/4" electric looming and still tore up the lines.

The problem with this application is that the bags are made to stay on the bottom wounds of the spring and under a semi constant load. The failure of the springs comes in when you "FLEX" your suspension, causing the spring to "HOLD ON TO THE AIR BAG" and in essence it puts a strong pull on the air lines, causing them to weaken. I flexed my jeep out to max during my install so I could compensate for airbag travel and allowed for adequate excess air line, but the lines still broke. I think the airbags are a great idea but just not for off-road use. Personally, I would stay away from anything AIR related for the suspension in an expedition rig.

I was referring to a complete air spring like ORO's AirRock setup. I agree that a "inside the coil spring" air bag is not the hot ticket for a long travel suspension. A street car is fine, but not a Jeep.

I have actually researched a Goodyear air spring for the back that has all the capacity I need. As to off-road/expedition type use, I do not think the industrial/commercial air springs are too vulnerable to punctures or cutting. However, I have heard of sharp pebbles getting trapped between the bladder and the lower lobe causing failures. The lines are under much less stress with the full air spring, and can be routed to avoid trail damage. However, I am following your custom spring thread with interest, because that would certainly be the best, least complex means of adding capacity.

[86cj]

I will be really interested how your custom springs work, sometimes it's best to just get what you need. I know I am on a path to a better rear suspension in the coming years, thanks for sharing.

I have had better luck with my air bags, sounds like you gave it a good try. I did use fuel line to cover my air lines though. I might not have the droop you do so mine do OK. I don't think the Air Lift bags are the best solution they do work off road...

[nwoods]

Costs are $325-$425 per set and they take about 4 weeks to manufacture. We'll keep you posted regarding performance, service, etc. I am just doing the rear springs, the front AEV springs keep the front rock solid.

You are getting 3 springs right? One for spare?

[demonslaer]

Well, here she is after all the upgrades... :victory:
37140

37141

Look here for pictures of the storage system:
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=554936#post554936

how did you mount your jerrycan holders ? did you put plates between holder & body,fender or behind body& or fender i have 4 holders 2gas& 2water

[wardrow]

Can holders were mounted with two holes in the body and two holes in the fender, split the seam. The holders have 4 large rubber fender washers between them and the body/fender. Large like 1 1/2'' - 2'' fender washers were used on the back side. More than stout enough for a full jerry can. Warning, Warning, Warning!!!!!! God sake find something else to use for holding down your jerry can than the stock cheep strap that comes with these. If you are doing something similar to me, a ratchet strap to the radiator support rods offers an ideal local for securing. If you go this route do not. I repeat do not ratchet it all the way against your body or you will feel like a tool! keep about an 1/8 to a 1/4 inch space for can expansion and to prevent paint where.