2005 Chevy Colorado Build Up

[Northern Explorer]

First Post

A short introduction…. I’ve always wanted to do some type of upgrades/customizing to my vehicle but I’ve never had a truck worth putting any money into. I usually drive my vehicles to the point that they are towed away to the big scrap heap in the sky.
I had the same final end point in mind with my 1994 Chevy S10 (2wd, four cylinder, manual). It had about 86,000 miles on it and was chugging along just fine.:smiley_drive: Just fine that is until an 84-year-old woman ran a red light and totaled my truck.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Picture045.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Picture046.jpg
Due to the unfortunate demise of my S10, I was now in the market for a new used truck. I already knew the basics of what I was looking for. I wanted four-wheel drive, more power, automatic transmission, and cruse control. After a very quick search I ended up getting a 2005 Chevy Colorado.

Vehicle Specs.
Z85 LS Model
4-wheel drive
Crew Cab
5’ 1” bed
5 Cylinder, 3.5-liter, 220 horse power
Four speed automatic
Stock tire size 235/75r15 (Diameter = 28.9”)
Anti lock breaks
Torsion bar suspension on front
Leaf under axel in back
Cruise Control
Power Windows
came with plastic bed liner

Now I have something to play with.
The only modification I had in mind initially was to get some Bushwacker fender flares to make it look a little more like the Z71 model (don’t ask why I didn’t just get a Z71 model truck in the first place). I ordered a set from ebay and installed them soon after they arrived. This simple modification set off a chain reaction that ultimately led me to the Expedition Portal web site. The fender flares looked great and were easy to install. The problem now was that my stock tires looked even smaller than they did before. I wanted to see what other people with similarly sized trucks have done to their rigs to get an idea of how big I waned to go. I knew I didn’t want to make my truck into a rock crawler or anything like that. My friend has a jeep that is one step away from being put on a trailer to get from location to location. I would rather take my four-wheeler down that type of road/trail. What’s a man to do…what’s a man to do…click…click…click.. Expedition Portal??? What’s this site about? This was the answer that I was looking for. Not 100% street, not 100% off road, but right in the middle. The ability to take you to some of the most remote locations, and still be a daily driver. (That’s the direction I’m going with anyway) Let the mods begin.
I will post some pics of all the goodies that I have accumulated over the winter. No garage, so most of them are sitting on my closet floor right now.

Plan of attack:
I plan on keeping this truck my daily driver. The whole reason for me getting a crew cab was to comfortably carry more then two people. So no taking out the back seat. I am somewhat going with the Wescott’s Weekend Warrior (http://www.turtleexpedition.com/vehicles/weekend.php) concept. I want this to be a multi use vehicle. I am defiantly new to all of this and will welcome any and all comments and suggestions.

More to come as time permits.

[Scott Brady]

Welcome to ExPo.

With 15" wheels, I would be very tempted to buy 31x10.5 tires, as they will not overtax the driveline or affect the DD performance too much.

Any pictures of the new truck?

[kcowyo]

I'd be interested in hearing your impressions of the 3.5ltr. I like the looks of the Colorado and Canyon, but I haven't had the opportunity to drive one with the 5 cylinder.

As our host mentioned, a tire upgrade is usually the best place to start. I like to follow that with some recovery gear (tow strap, shovel, place for cold beer) and some form of communication to call for help or stay in touch with others on the trail.

It's good to have some GM blood here. Welcome to the forum! :beer:

[Northern Explorer]

Modifications so far…

Last fall after one of the first snow falls of the year I wanted to test out the four-wheel drive. I went to a place fairly close to my house where I used to bow hunt when I was in high school. To make a long story short, I drove through an iced over puddle that was way deeper than I thought it was going to be. I ripped off half of the little air dam that hangs down from the front bumper and broke one of the hard plastic universal fit mud flaps that I just put on a month before.:oops: When I got home I removed (sawed off) the other half of the air dam, the mangled mud flap, and the one surviving mud flap on the passenger side. Luckily I only got around to putting them on the front. I had been thinking about removing the air dam all along to help a little with approach angle and general ground clearance. In the future I plan on installing the flexible rubber type universal fit mud flaps. You may not need them in the south, but around here they really help with keeping some of the salt and ice build up off the rocker panels. One of my worst fears is to build this truck up and then have it turn into a big chunk of iron oxide. I don’t know how many times I’ve gone to the do-it-yourself car wash this winter.

Back to the subject…

For my birthday, my wife bought me a Garmin GPS MAPS 60CS along with the City Select mapping software. I’ve just started to use the mapping software and have a lot to learn. My overall review of this product is that it is a great GPS. I currently have it mounted on my dash in the center, which sometimes makes it a little hard to see (small screen for handheld use). I plan on moving it closer to the drivers side as soon as I figure out an ideal mounting location. If you want a GPS for in vehicle use only, I would probably recommend something with a larger screen. For our use this one works out great because we plan on using it hiking as well.

For Xmas, my wife bought me a Jensen Multimedia Receiver. If you're keeping track, my wife has spent more on my truck so far then I have. This thing has everything…7 inch flip up touch screen that plays DVDs or television stations (so far all I can pick up is the Jesus channel), input for Ipod, SD card, XM ready, and navigation ready if I decide to not use my Garmin. You can also hook up an on board camera to it. The SD card is great. I have downloaded all of my choice songs from my entire cd collection to something the size of a postage stamp. I made one small modification to the unit. It has a safety feature that disables the screen if the vehicle is in motion. The parking break has to be on if you want to watch tv or play a DVD. I installed a pushbutton switch to bypass this safety feature so my wife can watch DVDs when we are on long trips.

Sorry these are the only pictures I could manage tonight. A blizzard kicked up out of nowhere and I don’t feel like running outside to take in dash pics right now.


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[Northern Explorer]

Thanks for the advice. The 5 cylinder really has a lot of kick to it. Keep in mind I have had 4 cylinder vehicles all my life so I guess it’s all relative.

I’m slightly farther along in my build up then I let on in my first two posts. I purchased a set of used H3 rims on ebay. They measure 16 X 7.5 with the same bolt pattern and about the same backspacing as the stock rims. They are made of some kind of alloy and are fairly light for their size. I also purchased a set of BF Goodrich All-Terrains that measure 265/75r16 (Diameter = 31.7” Width = 10.5”). Scott…If you're wondering how they work in the snow…:jump:

I had planned on putting on my 2-inch lift before mounting these but due in part to slow shipping I put them on with stock suspension. I haven’t noticed any rubbing with this configuration but I haven’t really flexed my suspension too much either. I had volunteered to drive a group of friends out to a camp a few weekends ago so the tires had to go on. I wanted to see if I could drive in the camp road that had not been plowed all winter (about ½ mile in length). This winter had so far been light on the snowfall (till this weekend), so I thought there was a good chance that I could make it in. Despite the bumper pushing snow in a few placed, and a fallen tree that had to be dragged out of the road with a tow strap, we made it in no problem. Wish I had taken pictures.

Tire info.
Stock tire size on the Z71 model Colorado = 265/75r15
BF Goodrich AT 265/75r16 Diameter 31.7”
On my truck Z85 stock tire size = 235/75r15 Diameter 28.9”
31.7” – 28.9” = 2.8” Divided by 2 = 1.4” of extra clearance over stock

Stock tire and rim weight = 47.5 pounds (measured on a bathroom scale)
H3 rim and new BF Goodrich AT weight = 73 pounds

Net gain of 25.5 pounds per tire

More to come later.


Tire comparison...Installed in friends' garage.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/IansCamp001.jpg

[BCJC]

welcome! i've had my 04 Canyon since new and am quite pleased with it. you should have no issues with the new tires, i had 31x10.50 at's on my z85 with no suspension mods and they had zero issues. i've since cranked my tb's about 1.5" up and run 33x10.50 bfg at's with only slight rubbing on the sway bar, no big deal. i would love to see pics of your truck, i'm curious about the fender flares. please keep us (me) up to date with your progress. cheers.

[Scott Brady]

265/75 is a great tire! one of my favorite sizes for smaller/midsize trucks.

Lets see some pics of them mounted up :)

[kcowyo]

The H3 rims and BFG AT's sound like a nice combo. Probably gives the truck a whole new look over the stock set up.

The Multimedia Receiver sounds like a fun upgrade too. I'd like to see and read more about that. Plus if it keeps the Mrs. happy, she'll be more inclined to buy you more cool stuff for the truck. Good thinking! :victory:

[Northern Explorer]

A couple of glamour shots

Photos with Bushwacker fender flares installed, stock rims and tires, and before installation of 2” lift.

I took the BF Goodrich tires off for a short road trip I will be taking in a couple of weeks. I will post pictures of the new tires installed with the lift sometime in mid April.

Additional minor upgrades
Mag Light Holder www.jestercustoms.com
Remote Starter
Bug Guard
Weathertech Floor Mats (front only)
Sun Glasses Holder…I did say minor

One problem I am running into with trying to upgrade this truck into an “expedition vehicle” is that there just isn’t that many aftermarket products out there for a Chevy Colorado. Nothing I’m looking for anyway. No rock sliders, No front or rear bumpers, and No skid plates. If I were to get any other vehicle it would be simply for the availability of additional after market parts and accessories.

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[calamaridog]

I'm sure you can find a reputable fabricator in your state that could whip up some sliders or bumpers for you. Sometimes it's slow and frustrating to build a truck that doesn't have a huge aftermarket.

[Northern Explorer]

I was undecided for several months on how I wanted to lift my Colorado. I narrowed it down to two choices. I was either going to go with the Skyjacker lift or a lift involving extended shackles and some kind of torsion bar adjustment.

Pros and Cons

Option 1
The Skyjacker lift system
Enables 4 inches of lift
No cutting, grinding or welding required
Excellent instructions with pictures in PDF format
1 to 2 days of installation time
Factory angles remain intact to prevent premature CV joint wear
Fairly expensive

Option 2
Shackles from Synergy Off Road www.synergyoffroad.com/
Torsion bar keys from ebay
Enables 2 inches of lift
No cutting, grinding or welding required
No instructions required for shackles
Torsion bar key instructions are extremely brief but I think it will all make sense when I look underneath
A few hours to install both
CV angle is increased slightly
Fairly cheap

In the end I decided on option 2. In addition to taking into account everything already mentioned, I had already purchased the H3 rims. These rims had too much back spacing for the Skyjacker lift to work. Furthermore, 2 inches of lift was more then enough to run the tire size that I wanted (265/75r16).

I purchased the torsion bar keys form ebay but they look just like the ones sold here www.truxxx.com

I will also be changing out my shocks when I install the lift. I chose Rancho 5000 series. Part # RS5190 on back RS5300 on front

Skyjacker info.
I talked to someone in tech support about tire sizing and rim measurements. He told me that their model Colorado was running 285/75r17 tires on 8-inch wide rims (33.8 x 11 to 11.5). He also told me that the recommended backspacing was 4.75” but 4.5” would also work on account that 4.75” backspaced rims are somewhat hard to find.

Hope this information is helpful
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/lift002.jpg

[kcowyo]

I think you picked the right set-up to start with.

The Rancho 5000's are a little stiff at first but they will break in and they're a great all around shock. Shackles and a slight T-bar lift are a good way to go to allow bigger than stock tires.

Here's a link to a great GM Trucks forum (http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/). I used to read and post there quite a bit a few years ago when they were first getting started. Tons of info and ideas over there. Might be a good place to check out for tech info and to find someone who can fab bumpers or sliders or whatever else you may want.

Love the red by the way! :beer:

[upcruiser]

Another yooper on board! Welcome! I haven't seen your truck around town but will start watching for it. Sounds like a cool project.

[Northern Explorer]

Calamaridog
I contacted Synergy Off Road by email. They said that they would probably have some rock sliders available sometime this year for the Chevy Colorado.

I also found someone in New York that has built a front bumper for his Colorado. He is starting to take orders for custom builds. It’s a nice looking bumper but I'm going to put this project on the back burner for a while.

Pic of his bumper
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/P1000441.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/P1000444.jpg

For now I just may end up ordering the front recovery hooks that come standard with the Z71 model.

Kcowyo
Thanks for the link to the GM web site. Another link that I have found useful is www.coloradofans.com This is where I found the above mentioned bumper and a lot of the information on the lift I’m doing. This web site isn’t off road specific so there are a lot of junk posts to read through.

Link for more bumper pictures
http://www.coloradofans.com/viewtopic.php?t=39664&highlight=bumper

upcruiser
I will keep my eyes open for your truck as well. It’s a small world.

Side Note
I just purchased a good jack (home use, not out on the trail) and a Makita electric impact wrench. If I’m going to be switching my tires out on a regular bases the bottle jack and lug wrench just wasn’t going to cut it.

[teotwaki]

.............. The problem now was that my stock tires looked even smaller than they did before. I wanted to see what other people with similarly sized trucks have done to their rigs to get an idea of how big I waned to go.

navigate to the EW home page and look for the white paper on tire sizes. Excellent paper and rare to see keen analysis rather than opinionated hype.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/research/white_papers/tire_selection_rev1.html

[upcruiser]

Calamaridog

upcruiser
I will keep my eyes open for your truck as well. It’s a small world.



Yeah, sounds good. Look for a silver crew cab Silverado with US Ski Team decals on the door. The cruiser won't be back on the road again till late April.

You got any cool trips planned for the upcoming season?

[Northern Explorer]

I got a little work done on my truck this weekend. In an earlier post I mentioned that I had a Garmin GPS Maps 60CS that I wanted to mount in a better location. When I first installed it, I used the Garmin dash mount bracket with the permanent adhesive disk and placed it on the center of my dashboard. There were several problems with this setup. It was just far enough away to make the small screen hard to read, and it vibrated over even small bumps making it even harder to read. To remedy this problem I purchased an angle brace from the hardware store and cut one end short and used a grinder to make the other end narrower. I salvaged the attachment clip from the original mount and bolted it right onto my dash in a location that’s closer to the driver’s side.

original mount
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/cf-md.jpg

Another problem with the original setup was that the power cord hung down and got in the way of the flip up TV screen on my radio. To solve this problem I installed a 12-volt outlet behind the dash. I then used a small file to make a hole so the wire would not get pinched. It was an easy fix and it looks a lot better.

custom mount showing power cord upgrade
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Dash8.jpg

Showing how new location of power cord does not get in the way of the flip up screen.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Dash7.jpg

My second instillation for the weekend was a CB that I purchased from radio shack. It’s a fairly basic unit but in addition to the 40 CB cannels it also has 7 weather channels. I chose a CB over a 2-meter radio for the simple reason that I don’t know that much about 2-meter radios and I don’t know anyone that has one. I will also be able to listen to truckers when I get bored listening to music on long trips. The antenna that I went with is the “Ultimate CB antenna System” from CFE Products. http://www.cfeproducts.com/ulcbansyscom.html I have yet to receive it in the mail. I like the mounting location because it leaves my roof clear for a roof rack if I decide to put one on. I’m a little concerned with how stiff it’s going to be. If it doesn’t work out I will buy one similar to what Baja Taco has.

Location of CB

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Dash5.jpg

[Northern Explorer]

I finally got around to installing my lift this weekend.:wings: Everything went fairly smoothly. I did the back end Saturday and the front today (Sunday). I will let the pictures speak for themselves. I have my truck parked next to a Colorado Z71 2wd for comparison.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p004.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p005.jpg

The only part of the installation that I had questions on was the torsion bar reindexing keys. The ones that I purchased look exactly like the ones that come stock on the truck. If anybody sees a difference please enlighten me. I think I could have gotten away with just turning the torsion bar adjuster bolts to achieve the same amount of lift (I could be wrong).

Black are new rusted are old

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p001.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p002.jpg

As for the lights…it doesn’t pay to go cheap. The ones I installed have 55-watt bulbs and I would probably classify them more as fog lights then “off road lights”. I didn’t even use the switch that they came with. It felt cheap and I wanted a different style.

Location of light switch

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p012.jpg

Overall it was a good weekend. I’ll post some off road pics as soon as I can. Time to make an appointment for a front-end alignment.

[calamaridog]

The truck looks very good:REOutArchery02:

[kcowyo]

The only part of the installation that I had questions on was the torsion bar reindexing keys. The ones that I purchased look exactly like the ones that come stock on the truck. If anybody sees a difference please enlighten me. I think I could have gotten away with just turning the torsion bar adjuster bolts to achieve the same amount of lift (I could be wrong).


You're right. They are the same. Generally GM torsion bars can be adjusted with a 18mm socket wrench IIRC.

The truck looks great and nice install on the light switch too. Nice progress so far. The flip up screen is a really nice touch.

[Northern Explorer]

Update: I no longer own the Fleetwood Neon. See here for details http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13848

I thought about this one for many months. There is a long list of pros and cons for every option out there. Putting a shell on the back for sleeping accommodations wasn’t going to do the job with a 5-foot truck bed. So I had to come up with something else.

This is what my ideal camping/sleeping setup would include:
1. I want more then a sleeping area. Yes I plan on being outside as much as possible but I would also like an indoor area that can be heated for those fall and spring trips. I also wanted an indoor area to be able to escape the swarms of black flies and mosquitoes that we have around here.
2. I want to have at least a partial solid roof. When it starts to rain I will feel a lot more confident.
3. I want the transformation from daily driver to expedition-ready to be quick and simple.


These were my choices.

Roof top tent…. This would include soft-top models like the Eezi-Awn and the hard shell models like the Maggiolia.
I really like these. I first saw one on the show Pimp my Ride (of all places). They pimped a VW Thing and put some type of hard shell tent on the top. If I just needed a place for sleeping, this is what I would get.
Leaves room for carrying a lot of additional gear.
Not that heavy.
Can be removed fairly easily by two people when not in use.
Can be stored in a fairly small location (shed or corner of garage).
Doesn’t affect drivability of the truck that much. (a little extra weight, a little higher center of gravity, a little less aerodynamic, maybe a blind spot or two depending on mounting location).

Flip-Pac-Camper
Another excellent choice, but not for me.
Can be used just like any other truck topper when it’s not in camping mode.
They make one to fit just about any size truck.
Allows you to customize the inside any way you want (water storage, cooking, cabinets, seating, whatever).
They are only sold in California (can’t see it before I buy it and shipping would cost a lot)

Truck Camper
If I had a 6-foot bed I may have gone with one of these. With my 5-foot bed my only options were the Four Wheel Campers Falcon model or the All Terrain Campers Puma model.
Both companies offer quality products that are much lighter than a traditional truck camper. I like the fact that they are well insulated and have a solid roof. The biggest problem for me was the size. I will be doing a good portion of my trips with my wife and there just isn’t much room inside of these models. If I was by myself it might be a different story. But either way, with shoes on my head would be scraping the ceiling. Six feet of headroom just isn’t enough.

I ended up driving to Pennsylvania Easter weekend to pick up a Fleetwood Neon. It is going to take some work to get it up to the standards of an off road camper. I plan on adding shocks and bigger tires to start. I will post camper mods in the Expedition Trailers area. I like the fact that I can have everything ready to go and stored on the camper, so when the time comes I can just back up the truck, hook it up and go. The biggest drawback that I can see to this type of setup is that I am going to be a lot less maneuverable on the trail. Fortunately, the trip that I am planning is mainly gravel roads so this shouldn’t be too much of a concern. As a backup plan I also have (thanks to another gift from my wife) a truck tent. More on that at another time.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/neon3.gif

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p009.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p020.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/p021.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/neon2.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/neon1.jpg

[toyrunner95]

i like your truck, i have tossed around the idea of buying a colorado, they look pretty stout but im waiting for some reviews.

if you give it time i bet there will be better bumpers out for the truck as well.

IMO that front bumpers looks too.... boxy, it doesnt really compliment the truck. ill do some quick research and see what i can find, if you think like it do your probably dont want a tube bumper, it will leave things too vulnerable like the radiator and oil cooler.

but of course thats just my opinion, nice truck btw, how much do those baseline for.

[kcowyo]

I ended up driving to Pennsylvania Easter weekend to pick up a Fleetwood Neon....

The biggest drawback that I can see to this type of setup is that I am going to be a lot less maneuverable on the trail.

Hey, great find! :jumping:

I've seen a couple of the Neon's and they look like a great solution. One ExPo member and kin to our host Scott Brady, uses one with his family including the cat (!!) There a couple of pics of it in this gallery from BajaTaco (http://www.bajataco.com/caminodeldiablo06/index.htm)during their trip on El Camino del Diablo. It might be more capable on the trail than you're giving it credit for.

I look forward to reading more about how it works out for you -

[upcruiser]

Northern Explorer, I saw your rig today for the first time. I was riding back into town from a mountain bike ride on the Mt Marquette loop and saw it parked in what must be your driveway. Looks good! I like the stance that lift gives your truck. Honestly, that is the first lifted Colorado that I've seen. Hope to bump into you sometime.

[Northern Explorer]

i like your truck, i have tossed around the idea of buying a colorado,.................how much do those baseline for.

Base price 2007 4x4
Regular Cab $18,170
Extended Cab $20,195
Crew Cab $24,495


Hey, great find!

I've seen a couple of the Neon's and they look like a great solution. One ExPo member and kin to our host Scott Brady, uses one with his family including the cat (!!) There a couple of pics of it in this gallery from BajaTaco during their trip on El Camino del Diablo. It might be more capable on the trail than you're giving it credit for.

I have seen a couple of other pictures of his Neon on another thread but it only showed it on the outside. I always wondered what the bunk bed looked like. I would still like to know the mechanics of how it is put into position.


Northern Explorer, I saw your rig today for the first time. I was riding back into town from a mountain bike ride on the Mt Marquette loop and saw it parked in what must be your driveway. Looks good! I like the stance that lift gives your truck. Honestly, that is the first lifted Colorado that I've seen. Hope to bump into you sometime.

Yep...that's my house. Stop by and introduce yourself if you see me out in the yard. BTW those are great trails.

[Northern Explorer]

The antenna that I went with is the “Ultimate CB antenna System” from CFE Products. http://www.cfeproducts.com/ulcbansyscom.html I have yet to receive it in the mail. I like the mounting location because it leaves my roof clear for a roof rack if I decide to put one on. I’m a little concerned with how stiff it’s going to be. If it doesn’t work out I will buy one similar to what Baja Taco has.


Due to me not filling out the order form properly, my order for the "Ultimate CB Antenna Systen" was never processed.:luxhello: Some things were just meant to be.

I have since ordered...

K40-SF300 3ft Superflex CB Whip Antenna
73177318

Firestik-SS174 Hood/Trunk, Stainless Steel, Channel Mount
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/SS174.jpg

Firestik MU8R9 2-piece 9ft "EZ-Install" Coax Cable
73197320

This time I recieved an email confirmation of my order.

Update: I have since broken two of the K40-SF300 3ft Superflex CB Whip Antennas. I have consequently switched to a Firestick Firefly 3 foot antenna. model FL3B

[Northern Explorer]

Small but necessary upgrade.

I just picked these up today from the Chevy dealer. They come standard on the Z71 model. I hope to install them tomorrow.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/recoveryhooks.jpg

[calamaridog]

I'm digging the Neon. I look forward to seeing what you do to beef it up.

[BCJC]

i have those recovery hooks on my truck, and you can actually lift up the front tire with a hi-lift jack under one. good choices so far, your truck is looking great!

[Northern Explorer]

Last week I had time to install the CB antenna and the recovery hooks.
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I may move the antenna back toward the cab in the future. I had to lean it out a little bit so that the bug guard would not hit it when raising and lowering the hood. It is a very tight fit. I had to add a small custom bend to the mount so that it wouldn’t rub.

This weekend was the big trail test. I definitely found out what my truck is and is not capable of. Overall I am very satisfied with the performance. The trail we went down was very rough. There were only a few problem areas.
1. The rear bumper dragged a few times on the bottom of steep hills, especially if the steep hill was immediately followed by an incline. The stock bumper has a fairly long overhang that limits departure angle. The Demello rear bumper, recently reviewed by mountainpete, would go a long ways in solving this problem. http://www.expeditionportal.com/equipment/equipment_reviews/demello_rear_bumper/demello_bumper.php Unfortunately, I’m fairly certain that one will never (never say never) be built for the Colorado and my only option would be to have one custom made. For now I will keep what I have.
2. The crew cab model has a 126-inch wheelbase. This is going to be a limiting factor for the breakover angle. There were a few good bashes on the lateral support beams (whatever they’re called) when I went over steep peaked hills. The fact that these lateral support beams hang down below the level of the frame doesn’t help much either.
3. The leaf under axel setup exposes a lot of the suspension to obstacles that the truck would otherwise clear. This was the only area where I had actual damage. The emergency break cable hanger that is mounted to the bottom of the leaf spring was ripped off. Not an expensive fix (I hope) and most importantly we weren’t stranded in the woods because of it.

broken (drivers side)
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still in one piece (passenger side)
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Speaking of the emergency break cables…. Ever since I got the truck I haven’t like the placement of the emergency break cables. They run right along the bottom of the frame on the drivers’ side. One good hit by a rock could take them out. In order to installed my lift, I needed to jack my truck up by the frame. The emergency break cables were right in the way of where I wanted to place the jack. I decided to unbolt the cable hanger so I could temporally move the cable out of the way. In the process of unscrewing the bolt I broke it off (should have used WD40). So now the cable is really hanging and I’m thinking about rerouting it above the frame. BCJC do you have any thoughts on this? I’ll let everyone know if this works out or not.
7515


Trail pics

Should I or shouldn't I?
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/april2820070012.jpg

On the way back
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/april2820070082.jpg

It got a little ugly. IH8MUD
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/april2820070052.jpg

[BCJC]

looks like a fun trip. i have very similar complaints about my truck's design, ie, the crossbrackets hanging down and the springs under the axles. i've added skid plates which have helped protects the underbelly, as well as help "slide" over obstacles rather than getting too hung up. the leaf springs, well, other than a SOA (spring over axle) conversion, i guess we'll just have to live with it. i havn't had a problem with my parking brake cables, but i'm curious abou your idea of rerouting. keep me informed if you figure something out! again, looking real good!

[Northern Explorer]

Keeping it simple (and cheap). This is the extent of my recovery equipment.

7882

Two 20-foot straps. One with looped ends and one with hook ends. One 4 ton come-along. The straps fit behind my back seat and the come-along fits like a glove under the back seat. Am I missing anything basic?

As for the emergency break cable hanger. It’s never a good thing when you hear the parts guy at the Chevy dealership saying on the phone “well that’s a bad design” to the person on the other end. The only way I could get the part I needed was to purchase a new leaf spring. The cable hanger is riveted to the bottom leaf and is not sold separately. I didn’t bother to ask how much and I am going with plan B. Fortunately for me I have a brother that owns a body shop. He is going to bend the broken piece back into shape and weld it back into place. At the same time he is going to drill and tap the broken bolt from my other break cable mishap.

[eugene]

It’s never a good thing when you hear the parts guy at the Chevy dealership saying on the phone “well that’s a bad design” to the person on the other end.

Thats why he designs the parts instead of working in counter, ohh wait :)

How does the door on that trailer work, it looks like its one solid piece so where does it go when the top is down?

[Northern Explorer]

Thats why he designs the parts instead of working in counter, ohh wait :)

How does the door on that trailer work, it looks like its one solid piece so where does it go when the top is down?

lol

The door and door frame slide up and attach to the ceiling. It's a clever design. All pop up campers that I have ever seen have the same design. The ridged door frame adds a lot of stability to the structure of the camper when it is in the raised up position.

[jim65wagon]

Keeping it simple (and cheap). This is the extent of my recovery equipment.

7882

Two 20-foot straps. One with looped ends and one with hook ends. One 4 ton come-along. The straps fit behind my back seat and the come-along fits like a glove under the back seat. Am I missing anything basic?

.
How does the dog work the come-along without opposable thumbs?

I've got a three foot pipe that slides over the handle of my come-along to alleviate some of the inevitable muscle strain.

[Northern Explorer]

How does the dog work the come-along without opposable thumbs?



The wife works the come-along. The dog is for traction under the tires. We usually pick up a half dozen from the pound before we head out. I sit in the drives seat and give orders. I don't like to get mud on my Italian leather boots......Just Kidding

[Northern Explorer]

I’m posting this here instead of the trailer section because what I am doing with my camper doesn’t warrant a thread of it’s own.:(

My original plan with my Fleetwood Neon was to install my old tires and rims in order to lift the camper up to the height of my bumper mounted ball hitch. By not installing a receiver hitch under the bumper I would be able to retain as much departure angle as possible. My bumper is rated to 2000 pounds for towing with 200 pounds of tongue weight. The Neon weights only 950 pounds and has a tongue weight of only 90 pounds. So there would have been plenty of capacity. In addition to the departure angle issue I thought it would be a good idea if all of my truck and camper tires were interchangeable for the purpose needing to carry just one sized spare tire.

I ran into a few problems with this idea. First of all the bolt pattern wasn’t interchangeable. This could have been corrected by installing new hubs on the camper. The second problem was that my truck tires wouldn’t fit under the fenders. This probably could have been corrected but I would have had to hack saw off the fender mounts that attach to the frame and then have new ones fabricated and welded on. The third problem (and the nail in the coffin) was the fact that the truck rims had way too much backspacing. The tires would have been right up against the side of the camper and even then the lug nuts wouldn’t have been able to be tightened all the way.

I thought about doing a spring over axle conversion but that wouldn’t have done anything for axle clearance anyways. So in the end I just broke down and ordered a receiver hitch. Side note…The camper comes with 205/65-10 sized tires. 20.5 inch diameter.

sitting level with new hitch
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/truck20and20camper.jpg

showing the height difference between the bumper hitch and new hitch
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/hitch20close20up.jpg

I still need to install the seven lead connecter with the break controller.

[Northern Explorer]

I installed my high beam kit tonight. I purchased it from www.highbeamkits.com A fairly easy installation. For those that don't know...the high beam kit enables both the low beam and high beam to be on at the same time when you have the brights on. The components of the kit consist basically of a relay and some wiring harnesses. It's well put together and it's a really cheap upgrade.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/april20282C20200720006.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/april20282C20200720008.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/april20282C20200720009.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/april20282C20200720010.jpg

[BCJC]

setting a good pace there! just thought i'd let you know that i swapped out my shackles for a skyjacker AAL and am very pleased. i have approx. 350-400 lbs in the rear at all times, plus more on trips, and didn't like the stock leaf springs. the AAL feels firm but not harsh, doesn't sag under weight, and still flexes well. just thought you might be interested in my findings.:)

[Northern Explorer]

setting a good pace there! just thought i'd let you know that i swapped out my shackles for a skyjacker AAL and am very pleased. i have approx. 350-400 lbs in the rear at all times, plus more on trips, and didn't like the stock leaf springs. the AAL feels firm but not harsh, doesn't sag under weight, and still flexes well. just thought you might be interested in my findings.:)

Sounds like a really good alternative if you are going to be carrying a lot of weight. Was the installation very difficult? I read someones' posting on Coloradofans.com who did the same thing just because they didn't like how the extended shackles hung down.

By the way...Did you make your skid plates yourself. I just ordered the front skid plate from a guy in Canada last week. I will let you know what they look like.

[Northern Explorer]

This one took F.O.R.E.V.E.R. I installed a Black and Decker 750 watt inverter. More then enough power to charge things like my digital camera and laptop. I also wanted enough reserve power to run my electric impact wrench or anything else that may need that much power. Since I am not running a duel battery setup, I will be keeping the truck running during most inverter uses. I used 4-gauge wire and installed a 100-amp, dc, waterproof circuit breaker right next to the battery. I also made sure to solder all wire connectors. I still need to upgrade my main ground wire, from the battery to the frame, with 4-gauge wire. I also need to replace a few of the cheap wire connectors with the better ones that I ended up using as soon as they are in stock.

Started with this
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/blackanddeckerinverter.jpg

Showing circuit breaker
8324

I painted it black to make it look a little better. Located on back of center counsel.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/liftbags009.jpg
8325
8326

[kcowyo]

The wife works the come-along. The dog is for traction under the tires. We usually pick up a half dozen from the pound before we head out.

Ok, I'm not the biggest dog fan in the world, so this had me rolling in hysterics. I'm not a big fan of wives either, but I'm sure yours is great.

Nice updates and upgrades - :beer:

[upcruiser]

The truck is coming along nicely. I ride by your house practically every day on my bike and I'm yet to catch you outside by your truck. We should do a trail run one of these days though. I've got the cruiser back in action on the road and my schedule is completely flexible for most of the month.

[Northern Explorer]

I will post this in the Planned Expeditions: North America section but I wanted to post it here first.

Date: June 23, 2007 through July 1, 2007
Location: James Bay Road and as much of the Trans-Taiga Road that time will allow
Things to do: Take a guided tour of the hydroelectric generating plant, Kayak in James Bay (if we get our Kayaks in time), drive, drive, drive, and then finally drive. I’m sure there will be some hiking involved too.
These are the web sites that I found most helpful

http://jamesbayroad.com/
Scroll down to where you see “A REMOTE WILD LAND OF EXTREME DISTANCES…” and click on the two links there. This web site has just about all the information you would need for a trip up there.

http://www.davidrose.us/DavidWebPage/MINICooperS/HudsonsBay/JamesBayTrip.html
David and Jay’s Excellent Adventure These two guys did the James Bay Road part of the trip in a Mini Cooper. I don’t think there will be too much technical driving involved. My truck should be ok.

And finally from our own Expedition Portal
http://www.purplelizard.com/james%20bay.htm
Lots of great pictures and information. And they did it in the winter!!!:bowdown:

This is my route.

Mileage involved
Marquette, Michigan (home) to Matagami 722 miles
Matagami to Radisson 384 miles
Radisson to James Bay/Chisasibi 66 miles
James Bay/Chisasibi to Radisson 66 miles
Radisson to Caniapiscau 461 miles
Caniapiscau to Radisson 461 miles
Radisson to Matagami 384 miles
Matagami to Marquette, Michigan (home) 722 miles

Total miles = 3266:truck:

My map (not all locations shown)
8469

Trip Report Thread http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6599

[Northern Explorer]

When I first drove my camper home from Pennsylvania I only had the break and tail lights working on the camper. It was Easter weekend and the roads were still very icy in spots. In fact, all six lanes of highway 23 near Fenton Michigan were being routed around a major pileup. I could definitely feel the camper pushing me when I had to apply the breaks on the snow-covered roads.

Today I installed the break controller along with the 7-way plug. I don’t like how I see a lot of people installing the plug on a bracket hanging down from the bumper. Based on how much my bumper dragged on my last outing, the plug would surely be ripped off. I used a 2 1/8 inch hole saw to cut/drill a hole in my bumper so I could mount the plug flush without it hanging down.

8484

I then mounted the break controller in an easy to reach but out of the way spot.

8485

[upcruiser]

Whoo hoo! Exciting trip. I've been wanting to do this excact one for some time. Whenever I get around to it though, I ned up going west instead since the mileage ends up working out to be the same. Still though, I really want to get up to James Bay. As far as the kayaking goes, I remember reading somewhere back awhile ago that the tide is pretty gnarly there. For that reason, alot of people who paddle to the Hudson Bay via rivers from the south usually avoid leaving the river's mouth. I'll be interested to hear how it all goes though and see your pictures.

Good meeting you the other day and don't forget the bug spray and head nets!

[BCJC]

you'll enjoy those skid plates, i have the same ones. i got the whole set (3 plates) and am glad i did! the install on the AAL was pretty straight forward, just a little time consuming (took me about 6 hours) you'll need new u bolts too. good luck on your trip!

[FourByLand]

Cool truck and I like the look of the H3 rims, it definatley sets it apart!

[Northern Explorer]

The skid plate came in the mail today. It took all of 5 minutes to put on. I ordered it from a guy that goes by the name Bubaloo on the Coloradofans web site. He makes a set of three. Judging by the quality I very well might order the other two.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/frontskidplate.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/frontskidplate2.jpg

8691
8692
8693

[upcruiser]

Looks nice. Is that aluminum or stainless?

[Northern Explorer]

Looks nice. Is that aluminum or stainless?


aluminum

[Northern Explorer]

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=85918#post85918

[Red Zebra]

Anything new? :Mechanic:

Have always liked the Colorado trucks. What was your MPG before and after the lift? Just curious. The window stickers suggest those trucks are fairly thrifty.

[eugene]

This one took F.O.R.E.V.E.R. I installed a Black and Decker 750 watt inverter. More then enough power to charge things like my digital camera and laptop.

Why not get 12v adapters for your laptop and camera, consumer inverters are very inefficient so your wasting a lot of power and having to idle the truck a lot.

I use a MAHA C401FS battery charger for my camera because it has the 12v in adapter so it runs straight from the 12v system.

[Northern Explorer]

12 volt adapters are a great idea for laptops and cameras. I just wanted to to be able to run other things as well. Also, I do all of my charging while I'm driving so I'm not really running the engine just for charging purposes.

[Northern Explorer]

Anything new? :Mechanic:

Have always liked the Colorado trucks. What was your MPG before and after the lift? Just curious. The window stickers suggest those trucks are fairly thrifty.

I know my gas milage did go down but I haven't yet figured it out for normal driving conditions. The main reason I haven't figured it out yet is because my odometer is off with the larger tire size. I just need to sit down one day and do the math....or remember to turn my gps on everytime I drive in order to correctly log the miles.

I do have all the data I need to figure out gas milage from my James Bay trip(soon to be posted in completed expeditions) but this was with my truck loaded to the max with two Kayaks on top sometimes driving 70 mph. Not exactly normal driving conditions.

[Northern Explorer]

Two recent minor updates to my truck.

New Antenna
I broke my CB antenna on a recent drive with upcruiser. We were on the same two-rut road where I broke my emergency break cable hanger earlier in the year. This time I don't need to go back. We made it in far enough to find out that the road came to a dead end at private property. I liked the antenna in terms of looks and reception so I decided to buy the same one again but this time I also purchased a stainless steel spring for the base.

9727
9728

$1.56 Differential Drop:Mechanic:
This one I got from the Coloradofans web site.
In an effort to prolong the life of my cv joints I decided to lower my differential 1/2 inch. I used 1/2 inch zinc flat washers that I purchased from Menards (sku# 232-1172).
9729

Stacking five together gives me 1/2 inch
9730

The factory bolts were plenty long enough for the extra 1/2 inch. I retightened the bolts to 112 foot pounds using a torque wrench.

Showing washers installed
9731

Angle before
9732

Angle after
9733

It's hard to see the difference because I didn't hold the camera in the same place at the same angle for both pictures.


Nonrelevant pictures of truck flexing.
9734
9735

[Northern Explorer]

Eaton G80 Automatic Locker
Comes standard on the Z71 Colorado. It only engages at speeds below 20 mph and only when it senses a 100-RPM difference from one wheel to the other. I know according to the poll (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7418)that this isn't the most popular choice out there. But I think it will work just fine for my needs.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/g8020locker20006.jpg

I hope to have it installed in the next couple of weeks. :Mechanic:

Videos comparing the G80 to open and limited slip.

Video 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8nAbg5suFw&mode=related&search=)

Video 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGlacQlBGcQ&mode=related&search=)

Video 3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfufXbYKvMg)

[upcruiser]

Nice upgrades. If that auto locker works anywhere like the one on my Silverado did, you'll dig it. Although I didn't wheel the Silverado, the diff was pretty seamless in locking engagement and it was quite effective. Next time you want to go out and break more stuff let me know. ha ha I'd really like to connect that trail that runs from Harlow Lake out to CR480. I leave for Chile on the 10th and am pretty flexible anytime prior to that.

[Northern Explorer]

Someone (The Wolf!) on the Colorado Fans website recently did this and gave me the motivation to finally do it to my own truck.:Mechanic:

Before: Hanging down and running along the bottom of the frame waiting to be ripped apart by a rock.
1106711068

I sprayed all of the bolts with WD40 and measured the length of the tension adjuster bolt before I started.
11069

After: Tucked up out of harms way.
Showing passenger side e break cable routed over drive shaft and exhaust pipe (plenty of clearance).
1107011179
11071

[Haggis]

You went about that all wrong. You're supposed to wait until you rip them out and then spend a bunch of money and time replacing them while try to figure out how everything goes back together.

Good preventative mod there.

[Funrover]

Sweet build... that is the first I have seen!!! Way to go!

[BCJC]

great job! that is something i will definitely tackle in the near future.

[Schattenjager]

I just found your post and have really enjoyed reading it - very detailed and well thought out mods! Thanks for taking the time to let us know what your doing to your rig!
:Mechanic:

[BCJC]

did the parking brake re-routing, great mod: easy, free, and effective...makes you wonder why it was made like that???

[Northern Explorer]

Put this on today.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Skidplate0015.jpg

It's the transfer case skid plate. As you can see, it attaches to two of the cross members. The hardest part of the instillation was drilling two, half inch holes through a thick, fully boxed cross member, with there only being a 1/4 inch of clearance between the ground and the drill. My arm was about to fall off at the end. Fortunately the other two bolt holes were already there.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Skidplate005.jpg

[Northern Explorer]

You went about that all wrong. You're supposed to wait until you rip them out and then spend a bunch of money and time replacing them while try to figure out how everything goes back together.

Good preventative mod there.

I decided to use your break it, spend money fixing it, spend money preventing it from happening again philosophy on my latest mod.

Step One: Crush rocker panel.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/RockSliders005.jpg

Step Two: After having looked for the 100th time, I finally found some Colorado rock sliders on the internet.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/RockSliders003.jpg

Step Three: Repair damaged rocker panel and have rock sliders welded on.
(Still working on this step.)

Yep....I had a little "mishap" due to 100% driver error. That night I got on the computer and thanks to the ColoradoFans website I found a place out in Washington that is just starting to make rock sliders for the Colorado. I think I have the second set ever made. The company is called BigRocks Offroad http://bigrocksoffroad.com/index.html. They specialize in aftermarket Toyota parts. The Colorado rock sliders are a new product and are not yet listed on their web site.

Specifications:
1.75" diameter tubing
.120" wall thickness
about 34 pounds each
They come with the legs not attached so they can be custome angled. I plan on having them angled up so they just miss my open door by about 3/4 of an inch.

Unfortunately I have to wait about a month to get them put on. Rocker panel still needs to be fixed.:(

[Northern Explorer]

XM Radio

Ok…this may not be a necessity to expedition travel but it sure would have been nice on our James Bay Road trip last summer. There were no radio stations in range. The last station that faded out as we headed north was a French speaking station. We had a good supply of cd’s and music on the iPod but nothing comes close to the variety on XM radio. It’s one of those things that I wouldn’t have bought myself but my wife gave me the subscription as a gift. Now that I have it I will probably renew the subscription when it runs out. I get spoiled way to easy.

My Jensen Multimedia Receiver came XM ready. This means that I can operate the XM controls through the receiver and I don’t need an extra controller sitting on my dash. All I needed to get was the tuner and the antenna.

I found a place to hide the tuner behind my dash to the right of the glove box.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/xmradio0061.jpg

I just ran the antenna wire behind the weather stripping.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/xmradio0011.jpg

[BCJC]

have you got those sliders on yet? any pics of the cap?

[kcowyo]

XM Radio

Ok…this may not be a necessity to expedition travel.......

I strongly disagree.....:violent-smiley-031:


Another great modification NE. Your truck is truly unique and a testament to your smart planning.

:beer:

[Scott Brady]

It's the transfer case skid plate.

That is a really nice piece of gear... Your truck is coming along very nice. :jumping:

[ujoint]

It's cool that someone is making some aftermarket stuff like that for that chassis. Has anyone tried any H3 parts / skidplates? Do the H3's even have any decent skidplates under them?

[evldave]

It's cool that someone is making some aftermarket stuff like that for that chassis. Has anyone tried any H3 parts / skidplates? Do the H3's even have any decent skidplates under them?

Factory UCP is available but expensive ($400 for parts I think). I think maybe 2 other aftermarket UCPs out there. Colorado UCPs don't fit the H3 (more frame supports on the H3). There is a stock skid plate, but pretty small. I haven't measured it yet, but know of a couple H3ers who basically just bolted up a 3/16" steel plate to the frame rails. Other than potential heat issues in the xmission/xfer case, that's just about the cheapest way to go...

[dennisuello]

Showing washers installed
9731

Did you use liberal mounts of thread locker on the bolts? It's better to buy a correct size tube and cut spacers instead of using stacked washers.

[Northern Explorer]

have you got those sliders on yet? any pics of the cap?

No and No. I get the topper this saturday. I will try to post a picture before I head to lower Michigan for the long Xmas weekend. As for the sliders, I am still waiting to have my damaged rocker panel fixed. We had a huge hail storm on June 20th and my brothers body shop is still somewhat backlogged from that. I told him to get to me when he could.

[Northern Explorer]

Your truck is truly unique and a testament to your smart planning.
:beer:

Not so much a smart plan as it is feeding my addiction. :Mechanic:

[Northern Explorer]

Your truck is coming along very nice. :jumping:

Thanks, I still have a long way to go.:safari-rig:

[Northern Explorer]

Did you use liberal mounts of thread locker on the bolts? It's better to buy a correct size tube and cut spacers instead of using stacked washers.

I agree. There would be less of an issue with things coming loose with a solid spacer. Someone on the ColoradoFans web site has put together a kit that includes the spacers (I think one inch), longer bolts and other necessary hardware. I think they are still offering it but I haven't checked in a while.

I'm going to keep what I have for now. In the spring I plan on putting on a 4 inch lift (probably Skyjacker...this truck desperately needs a better breakover angle). This lift kit includes a solid differential drop bracket that I will use in place of the washers.

[upcruiser]

Looking good. That's something I'd like to install on my own truck. Can't wait to see your truck with the new lift. That's going to be tough. Good stuff.

[Northern Explorer]

Leer 100XL Topper

It fits great and looks really good too. They did a good job matching the color.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Newtopper0031.jpg

Thanks again to MountainPete for the decals. I plan on taking the Leer branding off as soon as I can.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Newtopper0041.jpg

Damage from the plastic bed liner that came with the truck.:( It's like this in all four corners. I plan on applying Herculiner to the bed this summer.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Newtopper0151.jpg

Random picture with topper.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Newtopper0121.jpg

[BCJC]

looks great! any plans for a roof rack? can't wait to see the sliders too.

[Northern Explorer]

looks great! any plans for a roof rack? can't wait to see the sliders too.

No plans for a roof rack now. Things may change but as for now I have plenty of room inside for storage, I still keep my spare tire underneath, no plan to add overhead lights and I like the fact that the truck is a little more aerodynamic without one. Although I do like how yours looks.

The sliders or 4:10 gears are next.

Did you see what I got for Xmas http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10299&page=4 :)

[BCJC]

sweet, will you be using the rado? i agree about the aerodynamics, i needed a place for a spare (33" doesn't fit stock position), but i did notice some noise increase and mpg decrease... the sliders will be great, what is your current r&p ratio? also, i'm hoping to do a trial removal of my sway bar at some point when i get a good chance to really get a feel for it, i'll keep you posted.

[Northern Explorer]

sweet, will you be using the rado? i agree about the aerodynamics, i needed a place for a spare (33" doesn't fit stock position), but i did notice some noise increase and mpg decrease... the sliders will be great, what is your current r&p ratio? also, i'm hoping to do a trial removal of my sway bar at some point when i get a good chance to really get a feel for it, i'll keep you posted.

Yes, I would like to use my Colorado for the training. My wife said that I could use his vehicle but I would rather learn everything in my own truck anyway. I'm sure he would be accommodating no matter what kind of truck somebody showed up in. The only specification was that the truck has to have front and back frame mounted recovery points.

My ratio right now is 3.43:1 I’ve been keeping track of gas mileage at each stage of modification (so far just stock and then with larger tires). My mileage took a hit with the larger tires. It will be interesting to see the affect of the 4.10 gears. I'm assuming it will be for the better. I’ll do a right up on this when I have more data.

I'm disappointed to hear that a spare 33 doesn't fit in the stock location. For my 2009 trip I would like to take two spares and I was counting on putting one in the stock location. What's in the way? Can anything be cut or moved?

I have a lot of work to do before next summer. Right now I’m looking at possibly buying a winter daily driver in order to prolong the life of my Colorado.

[Northern Explorer]

Just received my Scanguage II in the mail and spent the last hour in my truck reading the manual and playing with all the functions. I had wanted to get a simple volt meter for my truck but after doing a little research (mostly on this site) I decided to order a Scanguage II. I think it was well worth the money considering all that it does.

My only question now is where to mount it. I found a few options at the Coloradofans website. Each with pros and cons.

option 1
15077
Pros: Easy to read location, removable, easy to mount (no custom cutting)
Cons: In direct sunlight (could exceed max operating temp.), accessible only to driver

option 2
15078
Pros: Factory look (if you do a good job), accessible by both driver and passenger.
Cons: Permanent installation (could only be used on my truck), tv screen would cover display when flipped up

option 3
15079
Pros: Easy to read location, removable, easy to mount
Cons: Covers up factory odometer, accessible only to driver

option 4
1508015081
Pros: Somewhat of a factory look, accessible by both driver and passenger, some cutting involved but only to the "radio frame" and I can get a new one at Walmart if I mess up.
Cons: Permanent installation, not easy to read while driving

I am leaning toward option 3 or 4, mostly 4

Any input would be appreciated.

[NorCalBronco]

I think I would go with option 4, seems to be the best compromise of fit, ease of use, and ease of install.

[DaveInDenver]

Option 4 looks nicest, but 2 could be good, too. I'm not a fan of random gadgets all over, so I like when things don't look cluttered and disorganized. But my decision would be which of the two is easiest to see (so safest!) during operation. I'm assuming a ScanGauge is something you mess with while driving?

[kcowyo]

Depending how high you sit vs. how low it would be in the center stack, I think a position similar to option #3 will serve you best.

It will be harder to read at a severe angle. The more you can keep it in your line of sight without raising or lowering your head to see it, the better. At night it won't be so bad, depending on the background colors your choose. But during the day it seems to get washed out fairly easy.

I keep mine attached under the top edge of my dash. It's out of direct sunlight yet easy to read. It would also be easy from here to pull it and swap over to another vehicle, although I haven't done that and doubt I will. Pushing the buttons to change readings is also easier at driving eye level.

http://s170537965.onlinehome.us/KcoWyo/gallery2/d/3305-1/scangauge+2_001.jpg

[Northern Explorer]

I ended up going with option #3. I really liked how option #4 looked but it was just to hard to read in that position. I may tweek it a bit later but this is good for now.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/scanguageIImytruck008b.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/scanguageIImytruck009b.jpg

[Canyon2006]

I mounted mine just like option #1. It has been there for about 6 months without ever getting too hot. I like it in the place i have mine, as well as where you put yours. Looks good man

[opie]

I wasnt epxecting to find another Colorado on an expedition forum!! Much less to be in MI too.

Good job on your truck, it looks good. Ive got a 2005 Z85 as well. I had those Bubaloo shackles for about 2 years and 7 turns on the TB's. Just recently I returned the suspension to stock but went with some 31 10.5 15 tires on the stock Z85 wheels.

No big plans to lift the truck anytime soon...maybe someday though.

I saw you got the indexing keeys for the torsion bars...I dont think the ones you got are the same as the stock ones...What they should have accomplished was change the resting point of the suspension without having to crank the adjusters. Say if you kept the stock keys and turned the bolts 5 complete turns...the indexed keys should accomplish the same lift without touching the adjustment bolts.

A friend an I are heading up to Mounds ORV park tomorrow, last weekend before thye close until May. We should be able to get some pics and should be decent weather.

[Canyon2006]

I was thinking the same thing as you ^^^^^ I didn't expect to find one on here either. I have a 2006 Canyon Z85. 2 Inch springtech spring up front and airbag helper springs in the back. 30x9.5 BFG At's. I don't want to lift it much more either....not yet....Next tires will be 31's for sure though!

[opie]

I was thinking the same thing as you ^^^^^ I didn't expect to find one on here either. I have a 2006 Canyon Z85. 2 Inch springtech spring up front and airbag helper springs in the back. 30x9.5 BFG At's. I don't want to lift it much more either....not yet....Next tires will be 31's for sure though!

The 31's (which is the equivalent to the 265/75/15 that come stock on the Z71) do look better. Much better footprint too.

I dont want to go crazy with lift...2" all around I was happy with. With 2" of lift Ive seen guys get 33's on their Colorado and Canyon.

[T.Low]

Excellent post. I have just read your entire years worth of fun with the truck, and may I say you've done a great job. Its the best looking Colorado I've seen. The H wheels look better on your rig than on the H.

I just bought my rig two months ago so your thread is hepful and timely.

When I was younger and lived in Michigan, I too mapped out a trip to James Bay but never went. I'll enjoy your trip report.

BTW, congrats on beating OSU in the playoffs. Say hello to #83 Matt Butcher, he's a great kid and Bellingham is proud of him.

[Northern Explorer]

Thanks for the complements. I plan on restarting work on my truck in April when the snow is out of my driveway.

T. Low... I updated post #44 with a link to my James Bay trip thread if you couldn't find it.

[PNWColorado]

Holy Cow!!! I never thought I would see another Colorado either. I bought mine to haul my ATV... nothing more really. Then I took it in the snow a few times and got bit by the bug to turn it more into a capable and reliable expedition vehicle wich I could rely on for personal recovery when I am going solo. That and digging and such to get out of the snow was not too fun last winter. Also courious where you found the rocksliders. I have a guy doing all my fab work off of my designs. Yours is looking pretty good.Here are the mods to my truck so far.

2004 Z71 inline 5 cylinder

Front light bar with winch stinger mount and shackle recovery
Rock sliders
Onboard air
Recovery kit... 2 30foot straps, tree saver, snatch block, 4 3/4 pin shacles, Chocker chain.
24" bar chainsaw
8000 pound winch with synthetic rope... will mount of front or rear of truck
32" full size spare
33x12.5 tires
4" Sky Jacker lift with torsion bars cranked for 1" more and 1" shacles in rear.

Next is the rear bumper with shacle recovery points and auxilary lighting, roof rack with more lights,

The G80 works really well. I have broken one already and replaced the complete axel. Unfortunately there is no other dif. avail. for the odd axle our trucks have. I will post another thread here for you guys to look over my build of my truck.

As for the parts being fabbed up. I had a guy doing stuff for me but has recently stopped doing it. I have another guy who is going to copy my bar and sliders and do the rear bumper for me so that I can start selling these items to fellow Colorado/Canyon enthusiasts.

[BCJC]

i'm pretty sure you guys have the same sliders, just from watching coloradofans.com and on here.

pnwcolorado (or is it sneaky?), looking forward to your build thread, and i'm in the market for a rear bumper as well, would love to hear your ideas.

[Northern Explorer]

PNWColorado

Yep....we have the same rock sliders. I followed your posts over at Coloradofans.com I should have them mounted in a few weeks. Nice truck by the way. You found a great web site.

[opie]

Holy Cow!!! I never thought I would see another Colorado either. I bought mine to haul my ATV... nothing more really. Then I took it in the snow a few times and got bit by the bug to turn it more into a capable and reliable expedition vehicle wich I could rely on for personal recovery when I am going solo. That and digging and such to get out of the snow was not too fun last winter. Also courious where you found the rocksliders. I have a guy doing all my fab work off of my designs. Yours is looking pretty good.Here are the mods to my truck so far.

2004 Z71 inline 5 cylinder

Front light bar with winch stinger mount and shackle recovery
Rock sliders
Onboard air
Recovery kit... 2 30foot straps, tree saver, snatch block, 4 3/4 pin shacles, Chocker chain.
24" bar chainsaw
8000 pound winch with synthetic rope... will mount of front or rear of truck
32" full size spare
33x12.5 tires
4" Sky Jacker lift with torsion bars cranked for 1" more and 1" shacles in rear.

Next is the rear bumper with shacle recovery points and auxilary lighting, roof rack with more lights,

The G80 works really well. I have broken one already and replaced the complete axel. Unfortunately there is no other dif. avail. for the odd axle our trucks have. I will post another thread here for you guys to look over my build of my truck.

As for the parts being fabbed up. I had a guy doing stuff for me but has recently stopped doing it. I have another guy who is going to copy my bar and sliders and do the rear bumper for me so that I can start selling these items to fellow Colorado/Canyon enthusiasts.

Ive got an itch under my skin right now to fab something. Its been awhile since I sat down with the welder. Last project was my 5x12 tandem trailer.

Ive got a good idea on how I want to build some rocker protection, with some scrap steel left over from my trailer project.

Next would be front and rear bumpers. Id like to mimic the stock bumpers as closely as possible, but tie them into the frame better with some dedicated recovery points. Id also like to build the rear hitch into the rear bumper. The stock one hangs so low...

Nice to see another Rado owner...

[PNWColorado]

that is the idea of the rear bumper for me. My reciever will be behind the plate. The plate will be on a stinger for removal. The tire will be moved as well so my rear departure angle will be greatly enhanced.

Never thought there woulds be so many guys here with these trucks. I always liked the Colorado/Canyon but thought it was looked at by most as a black sheep, such as most aftermarket companies. What's cool though is that things do have to be fabbed and it gives more oportunity for our trucks to be uniqe and not look like another truck to be coppied.

[opie]

that is the idea of the rear bumper for me. My reciever will be behind the plate. The plate will be on a stinger for removal. The tire will be moved as well so my rear departure angle will be greatly enhanced.

Never thought there woulds be so many guys here with these trucks. I always liked the Colorado/Canyon but thought it was looked at by most as a black sheep, such as most aftermarket companies. What's cool though is that things do have to be fabbed and it gives more oportunity for our trucks to be uniqe and not look like another truck to be coppied.

I agree.

Its bad for the tinkerers wife though!

I like how you worked your front recovery points/hitch into the existing tow hooks mounts. Ingenious.

[T.Low]

that is the idea of the rear bumper for me. My reciever will be behind the plate. The plate will be on a stinger for removal. The tire will be moved as well so my rear departure angle will be greatly enhanced.

Never thought there woulds be so many guys here with these trucks. I always liked the Colorado/Canyon but thought it was looked at by most as a black sheep, such as most aftermarket companies. What's cool though is that things do have to be fabbed and it gives more oportunity for our trucks to be uniqe and not look like another truck to be coppied.


Ahh, no, don't know what you mean at all...Black Sheep? Fabbed? Hmm. (ha ha)

Just incase sarcasm doesn't traverse the internet too well, yeah, I know exactly what you mean. My new full size spare, at only 30", barely fits underneath. I want to mount it on the rear for a few reasons, one of which is to put a water tank underneath in that same location for an exterior shower, but talk about fab, sheash.

Your trucks are looking good.

[Northern Explorer]

I got my truck back from the body shop today. They fixed the hail damage from the hail storm last June 20th, the rocker panel that I crushed on a big iron pipe that was hidden in the tall ferns, and touched up the scuff marks from the plastic bed liner that I removed when I got the topper.

Tomorrow I will be calling the local off road shop to set up an appointment to have the 4.10 gears installed, color match rhino line the rocker panels/lower door/fender area, and have the rock sliders welded on. I may have the rock sliders rhino lined black as well.

For the last several days I have been driving my Dad's GMC Canyon (crew cab, red, off road package). It felt like a low rider compared to my truck. It's amazing how only a few inches make such a big difference. This truck was equipped with the newer 3.7 liter engine and being stock, it was properly geared (3.73:1 ???) for the tire size. The power difference between his truck and my truck was definitely noticeable. I can't wait till I get the 4.10 gears in my truck.

[Northern Explorer]

One more thing to add to my to-do list.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Skyjackeraddaleaf.jpg

I will be taking the 2 inch lift shackles off and installing the Skyjacker add-a-leaf along with the oem shackles. The Skyjacker add-a-leafs will lift the back end by about 2 to 2.5 inches over stock. They should also help significantly with payload. I'm hoping this will be the only suspension modification I will need to make in order to carry my new camper (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13848)!:gunt: Summit Racing forgot to send me the longer center pins that are needed with the thicker leaf pack. Not sure if that was Summit's fault or Skyjacker's fault.

The truck goes in Monday (April 28th) for the gears and rock sliders.

[opie]

One more thing to add to my to-do list.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Skyjackeraddaleaf.jpg

I will be taking the 2 inch lift shackles off and installing the Skyjacker add-a-leaf along with the oem shackles. The Skyjacker add-a-leafs will lift the back end by about 2 to 2.5 inches over stock. They should also help significantly with payload. I'm hoping this will be the only suspension modification I will need to make in order to carry my new camper (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13848)!:gunt: Summit Racing forgot to send me the longer center pins that are needed with the thicker leaf pack. Not sure if that was Summit's fault or Skyjacker's fault.

The truck goes in Monday (April 28th) for the gears and rock sliders.

I did the AAL thing about a month ago...Very nice. Not to stiff...

Here it is after install. Its settled in a little bit...

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=18315&stc=1&d=1209262335

Here it is with about 2.5 yds of wet compost...

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=18316&stc=1&d=1209262335

[Northern Explorer]

Opie,
Thanks for the reference pictures. I'm guessing my camper won't weigh as much as the compost but with my crew cab truck and the overhang of the camper we'll just have to see what the affect will be.

[Northern Explorer]

The “empty wallet” mod has been successfully executed.

I’m really happy with the results and that’s all that should matter. In addition to all the work I had planned, my truck also needed new break pads and axel seals.

4.11:1 Yukon Gears

I’ve wanted to do this ever since I put the 265/75 16 tires on.
This is my math.
Stock gears = 3.42
Stock tires = 28.9 inches in diameter
New tires = 31.7 inches in diameter

31.7/28.9 = 1.097
So if my math is correct, with the new tires I was geared 9.7% to high. This lead to a lot of downshifting on small hills and a reduction in fuel economy.

More math.
3.42/4.11 = 28.9/x cross multiply and divide gives me 34.73

So in other words, with the new gears, I could (in theory) put 34.73-inch diameter tires on my truck and have a stock tire size to gear ratio.

31.7/34.73 = .91275554
100% - 91.275554% = 8.7%
So this makes my gearing 8.7% lower then stock. Just on the short drive home I can tell that being geared 8.7% to low is 100% better then being geared 9.7% to high.

Being geared to low also gives me the ability to size up to 33-inch (32.7”) tires in the future and still have a little low end left.

Rhino Lining and rock sliders

I will let the pictures speak for themselves. Color matched on truck and black on sliders.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/rocksliders001.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/rocksliders002.jpg
The color looks goofy in this picture but the match is good.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/rocksliders004.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/rocksliders008.jpg

I also had the shop make some spacers for the differential. No more washers.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/rocksliders0091.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/rocksliders014.jpg

[02TahoeMD]

I would have to say that project " Empty Wallet " was a resounding success! Looks good....REAL good. Where did you get your rock sliders from?

[opie]

Looks real nice.

I just scored a full set of H3 wheels, all 5, for $300. I was wondering what the BFG in 265 75 looked like on them..now I know. Thats the direction Ill be heading.

Everything else looks good. Real nice. I think Im going to look into dropping my rack much the same way you dropped the front diff. Way to much variance in toe with and without load due to such an angle of the tie rods.

[Northern Explorer]

I would have to say that project " Empty Wallet " was a resounding success! Looks good....REAL good. Where did you get your rock sliders from?

Thanks, I got my sliders from a shop called BigRocks Offroad. http://bigrocksoffroad.com/index.html Unfortunately they are going out of business. I think they made a good product.



Looks real nice.

I just scored a full set of H3 wheels, all 5, for $300. I was wondering what the BFG in 265 75 looked like on them..now I know. Thats the direction Ill be heading.


I think you will be happy with those rims.

[02TahoeMD]

Thanks, I got my sliders from a shop called BigRocks Offroad. http://bigrocksoffroad.com/index.html Unfortunately they are going out of business.


Typical of my luck. Oh well, I may have my local welding shop make some up for me, I have been there three times already and think they could do the job.

T. Low, you may want to check out Kennesaw Mountain Accessories, they may have something to fit your truck. I have one of their bumpers on my Tahoe, really like it.

Pics in the Cardomain link in my sig....

[Northern Explorer]

I finally got the last of the three skid plates installed. This is the front differential skid plate. One problematic bolt made this project take about two hours.

Mandy gives her approval
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/SkidPlate0051.jpg

Showing all three
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/SkidPlate0101.jpg

[opie]

Looks good NE. Are those Bubba plates?

[Northern Explorer]

Looks good NE. Are those Bubba plates?
Yes, he makes a really good product.

[BCJC]

unfortuneatley i believe now it's "made", as he no longer makes these. i've had the full set for a year or so, and and very glad i do. looking good NE, i guess the good thing about a small aftermarket, is it makes the choice easy;) are you still thinking about the skyjacker kit?

[Northern Explorer]

I think I am now going to pass on the 4" lift. That is one reason I had the shop make me a set of custom differential drop spacers. I didn't want to keep the washer spacers that I made and without getting a 4" lift I would no longer be able to install the differential spacer that comes with the lift. In addition, there were just to many things that I already paid for and took the time to install that are not compatible with the 4" lift. These being; the H3 rims, 2" lift shackles (soon to be add-a-leaf), stock rims (that I now plan on putting a set of 33's on), shocks, and at least one of the skid plates.

[t0mills]

Nice looking truck! You're doing a great job.

I've got a 2002 ZR2, and I can definitely see a few things that GM improved upon when they started making the Colorados.

It looks like they didn't stagger the rear shocks like they did on my truck (your shocks both attach to the rear side of the axle). I'm thinking about relocating mine.

Does your truck have a rear panhard bar?

It's also VERY nice that you were able to make spacers for your differential. CV angles are a big problem for these trucks!

I hope to replace my IFS with a D44 and coil springs one day. I had a friend give me his D44 and suspension setup out of his 2000 1500 Ram. He went to a D60. I know everyone doesn't like the D44's in the Rams because of the Central Axle Disconnect and the unit bearings, but for a light truck and 35's, I don't think it will be an issue. Plus, the axle is already setup for a 4 link, and the mounts are spaced 35" apart, which perfectly lines up with the frame rails on my truck.

Anyway, sorry to get off topic.

Truck looks good!

:sombrero:

-Tim

[Northern Explorer]

Nice looking truck! You're doing a great job.

I've got a 2002 ZR2, and I can definitely see a few things that GM improved upon when they started making the Colorados.

It looks like they didn't stagger the rear shocks like they did on my truck (your shocks both attach to the rear side of the axle). I'm thinking about relocating mine.

Does your truck have a rear panhard bar?

It's also VERY nice that you were able to make spacers for your differential. CV angles are a big problem for these trucks!

I hope to replace my IFS with a D44 and coil springs one day. I had a friend give me his D44 and suspension setup out of his 2000 1500 Ram. He went to a D60. I know everyone doesn't like the D44's in the Rams because of the Central Axle Disconnect and the unit bearings, but for a light truck and 35's, I don't think it will be an issue. Plus, the axle is already setup for a 4 link, and the mounts are spaced 35" apart, which perfectly lines up with the frame rails on my truck.

Anyway, sorry to get off topic.

Truck looks good!

:sombrero:

-Tim

Sounds like you have a good plan for your truck. After looking up panhard bar (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panhard_rod) on wikipedia I can say that I don't have one.

[Northern Explorer]

Edit: I ended up putting the anti sway bar back on before my summer of 2010 trip through Labrador. Although it significantly improved off road handling, the combination of adding a camper and knowing that I travel 99% on road (paved and gravel) made replacing it the best choice.

The great weather and the arrival of Overland Journal gave me the motivation to work on my truck. Time to take the anti-sway bar off. I’ve wanted to do this for a while. BCJC removed his about a month ago with good trail results. I wanted to do the same but in the process take some precise measurements along with some before and after pictures. This is what I did.

I used a set of ramps that were about 6 inches high. I put one behind my passenger side rear wheel and one behind my driver’s side front wheel. I did this so that I could simultaneously look at and measure compression (drivers side) and extension (passenger side) in the front. Basically seeing how level the front of the truck was before and after removal of sway bar. I also wanted to look at something that caught my eye in the back.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/uponramp60.jpg

Measurements taken from ground to fender flare at center line of tire.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Measurement60.jpg

Here are the results:
With anti-sway bar
Drivers side (tire up on ramp) 42.25 inches
Passenger side (tire on ground) 38.5 inches
A difference of 3.75 inches

Without anti-sway bar
Driver’s side 41.5 inches
Passenger side 39.25 inches
A difference of 2.25 inches

Somebody check my math but I believe this means the trucks front end is sitting 40% more level without the anti-sway bar. (2.25 being 40% less then 3.75)

Before anti-sway bar removal
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Swaybar009before70.jpg
After anti-sway bar removal
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Swaybar018after70.jpg
I'll be doing some trail, highway and mall testing in the morning but the "driveway test" makes it look like it was worth the effort.

This is what caught my eye in the back.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/tirescuff60.jpg
picture taken on drivers side but both sides are the same

Notice the tire scuff on the plastic. I can live with that but the red metal flange sticking out will need to be ground down about .25 to .5 inches. I can tell it has made contact at some point because the paint is rubbed off.

This is what it looks like stuffed from underneath on the passenger side. Notice the leaf spring isn't up to the bump stop yet.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/tirestuffgap60.jpg

There is very little room between the tire and the flange. You can just see a sliver of light passing through. I'll save this project for another day.

[BCJC]

right on, i'm sure you'll be pleased. if nothing else, the ride is much smoother on rough backroads. well done with the scientific comparisons too!

[opie]

Hey NE...you got that AAL put in, right?

I need to do this as well...But I think we gotta extend our bumpstops to compensate for the extra 2" of travel. Both front and rear....What do you think?

Looks good with the sway bar removed. Hows it handle on the asphalt now?

[Northern Explorer]

Hey NE...you got that AAL put in, right?

I need to do this as well...But I think we gotta extend our bumpstops to compensate for the extra 2" of travel. Both front and rear....What do you think?

Looks good with the sway bar removed. Hows it handle on the asphalt now?


I just have the 2 inch lift shackle in the back now. The AAL will be put in soon. When I put the AAL in I will go back to stock shackles. No need for bump stop lengthening in front. The range of motion is the same. Just the resting position is changed with the torsion bar adjustment. I also have stock bump stops in the back.

[opie]

I just have the 2 inch lift shackle in the back now. The AAL will be put in soon. When I put the AAL in I will go back to stock shackles. No need for bump stop lengthening in front. The range of motion is the same. Just the resting position is changed with the torsion bar adjustment. I also have stock bump stops in the back.

Regarding the front...

I was thinking about that the other day, and you are right, to a point.

Even though all we have done is change the resting point, we have also increased downward travel on the torsions. Im not good at explaining things..so bear with me.

Take the stock height of the Colorado on the front with torsion bars. How much travel down is there until you hit the stops? ( I really dont know.) Now...crank the bars up 8 turns like I have mine...Ive gained 2" in height. Ive also moved my rest point how ever much farther away from the stop. So in order to hit the stop on the front, more pressure will need to be exerted on the torsion bars to hit the stops. I can see this either wearing out the keys, or the torsion bars prematurely.

What do you think? I dont think its a major issue, but one I may address. Especially with the back.

[Northern Explorer]

Regarding the front...

I was thinking about that the other day, and you are right, to a point.

Even though all we have done is change the resting point, we have also increased downward travel on the torsions. Im not good at explaining things..so bear with me.

Take the stock height of the Colorado on the front with torsion bars. How much travel down is there until you hit the stops? ( I really dont know.) Now...crank the bars up 8 turns like I have mine...Ive gained 2" in height. Ive also moved my rest point how ever much farther away from the stop. So in order to hit the stop on the front, more pressure will need to be exerted on the torsion bars to hit the stops. I can see this either wearing out the keys, or the torsion bars prematurely.

What do you think? I dont think its a major issue, but one I may address. Especially with the back.

Sounds like you need to do some testing and get back to us. :) I'm going to keep as much articulation as I can get.

[Northern Explorer]

The add-a-leaf is in. Took way longer then is should have. About 6.5 hours. The trouble area was on the reassembly. The passenger side went together just fine but on the driver’s side I had a really hard time lining up the center pin of the leaf spring with the center pin hole on the axle. I finally got it using a ratchet strap to pull everything into alignment.

Work in progress
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/addaleaf003.jpg

A couple of pictures trying to show the differences in the arch of the springs with and without aal.

top with bottom without
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/addaleaf006.jpg

forground without background with
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/addaleaf004.jpg

with 2 inch shackle hanging down
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/addaleaf002.jpg

with 2.5 inch add-a-leaf
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/addaleaf008.jpg

The firmness of the tightened torsion bars and the add-a-leaf seems to be somewhat offset by the softness of not having a sway bar.

Sunday June 1st is my tentative pickup day for my Four Wheel Camper.:ar15:

[opie]

Youll enjoy the AAL much better than the shackles. Especially when it settles in a bit.

[BCJC]

The firmness of the tightened torsion bars and the add-a-leaf seems to be somewhat offset by the softness of not having a sway bar.


i agree, as well as carrying somewhat of a load. i removed my canopy, rack, spare, tool box etc, and found the aals surprisingly more jarring. i measured before and after and lost .5" with approx 350-400 lbs, but the ride was again softer and smoother. good job NE, i also couldn't stand the low 2" shackles.

[ujoint]

Looks better, now you don't have that shackle hangin low! You could have saved the hard work by doing one spring at a time, the axle usually stays in line easier that way.

[Northern Explorer]

You could have saved the hard work by doing one spring at a time, the axle usually stays in line easier that way.


I figured that. It even said to do one side at a time in the instructions I was following. The reason I did them both together is I wanted to compare the arch of the spring before and after aal install. Curiosity kills the cat.

[DH2002]

good looking truck simple yet functional looks sweet

[opie]

I figured that. It even said to do one side at a time in the instructions I was following. The reason I did them both together is I wanted to compare the arch of the spring before and after aal install. Curiosity kills the cat.

I ended up doing one side without removing the pack. It wasnt by choice. We couldnt get the forward bolt out of the hanger.

It was alot easier though. Only took as 30 minutes for that side as opposed to 2.5 hours for the first side.

[Northern Explorer]

Just add Four Wheel Camper

It was a long drive there and back to pick it up so here is just a teaser pic for now.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper005.jpg

Innocent casualty of the trip
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper003.jpg

[BCJC]

very nice! what comfort. any specs on the weight of the camper? like to see some more side shots. congrats.

[kcowyo]

I've been waiting for this.... :lurk:

[upcruiser]

Thanks for swinging by last night with it. Now I just have to see it with the top up before the drool factor takes full effect!

[kcowyo]

Almost 24 hours later and that damned pigeon has still seen more of your new Finch than we have.


This is cruel.....:mixed-smiley-030:

[Northern Explorer]

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper006.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper007.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper008.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper009.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper012.jpg
Bed pulled out in sleeping position
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper013.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper016.jpg
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/triptogetcamper017.jpg

I'm not one to leave well enough alone. There are a few small things that I will be tweeking on the camper. I'll save that for another post in the camper section. Overall I am very pleased with the quality of the camper and I can't wait to spend my first night in it. One thing that I need to do tomorrow is put more air in my back tires. I will start out with 10 extra psi and see how that looks. I will also be putting my sway bar back on. It was great not having it without the camper but with the camper there is just too much lean around the corners. I wish I could have an electronic swaybar disconnect like the Earthroamer Jeep.

[upcruiser]

Ha ha, I even rode by his house today on my bike hoping to catch a look at the camper up.

[opie]

NE..that looks nice! Do you know what it weighs?

On a side note...how did you like the handling of your truck, empty, with the sway bar removed?

[Northern Explorer]

very nice! what comfort. any specs on the weight of the camper?



NE..that looks nice! Do you know what it weighs?


http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/camper005.jpg

I think the 660 pounds is dry weight. The 75 amp hour AGM battery, 12 gallons of water, 20 pounds of propane, and 35 pounds of ice are all extra.

At this time I am looking into getting some air bags. The add a leafs helped but the weight of the camper (dry) sunk the back end down about two inches. I'm still glad that I put the add a leafs on because even without the camper my truck is several hundred pounds heavier then stock (rock sliders 80#, 3 skid plates ??#, truck topper ??#).

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/camper003.jpg

[TheRoadie]

...I wish I could have an electronic swaybar disconnect like the Earthroamer Jeep.You made me look into this a bit. The unit is an AAM Smartbar, an option on the JK Rubicon and the Dodge Power Wagon. Big bucks option.

But there's one for sale looks like cheap for the Jeep on Ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110260708148

Didn't sell for %500 minimum bid or $550 Buyitnow, so he relisted it at $350 minimum. The bar might not fit, but somebody should buy this got the gadget value, and make it work for them.

[Northern Explorer]

You made me look into this a bit. The unit is an AAM Smartbar, an option on the JK Rubicon and the Dodge Power Wagon. Big bucks option.

But there's one for sale looks like cheap for the Jeep on Ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110260708148

Didn't sell for %500 minimum bid or $550 Buyitnow, so he relisted it at $350 minimum. The bar might not fit, but somebody should buy this got the gadget value, and make it work for them.

So that's how it works. Looks like it would only fit a rig with a solid front axle. At very least my skid plate would get in the way.
19735
I'm guessing someone likes budweiser.

[Northern Explorer]

Firestone Ride-Rite air bags (http://www.firestoneindustrial.com/pdfs/RR/installationmanuals/RideRite_Kits/RR%202384/rrin2384.pdf)

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/liftbags005.jpg

Along with the Lock-N-Lift 2 inch universal spacer kit (http://www.airliftcompany.com/Lock-N-Lift.html) made by Air Lift

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/liftbags002.jpg

It looks like it will be fairly easy to install.:Mechanic:

[opie]

Are you skipping the AAL or adding this to it?

[Northern Explorer]

Are you skipping the AAL or adding this to it?

The add-a-leaf will stay on. It just wasn't enough for the weight of the camper The center of gravity sits about a foot behind the rear axle. But it was great with the extra weight of my topper, rock sliders, skid plates and other cargo that I had when the camper was off. This way I can just pump up the air bags (psi yet to be determined) when the camper is on and then deflate them (minimum recommended psi is 5) when I pull the camper off. Some of the people you see on here have upgraded to super heavy-duty spring in order to support the load that they carry. That's probably the way to go if you are going to have your truck loaded all the time. My camper will be off my truck 8 months of the year. A selectable suspension setup fit the bill for me.

I think the air bags will also increase stability enough that I will be able to leave my anti sway bar off. And that's a good thing.

[opie]

The add-a-leaf will stay on. It just wasn't enough for the weight of the camper The center of gravity sits about a foot behind the rear axle. But it was great with the extra weight of my topper, rock sliders, skid plates and other cargo that I had when the camper was off. This way I can just pump up the air bags (psi yet to be determined) when the camper is on and then deflate them (minimum recommended psi is 5) when I pull the camper off. Some of the people you see on here have upgraded to super heavy-duty spring in order to support the load that they carry. That's probably the way to go if you are going to have your truck loaded all the time. My camper will be off my truck 8 months of the year. A selectable suspension setup fit the bill for me.

I think the air bags will also increase stability enough that I will be able to leave my anti sway bar off. And that's a good thing.

I forget youve got the crew cab and most of the bed sits behind the rear axle!

Be interesting so see what your truck weighs with all your additions.

[kcowyo]

A selectable suspension setup fit the bill for me.

My feelings exactly. I think you'll be happy with riding on air.

FWIW, with the Airlift airbags, I run with @ 50PSI on the pavement, and up to 85PSI on the trail. When I take the camper off, I still run about 20PSI in the bags. They help keep my empty bed from bouncing around too much.

The camper looks great. I love the new interior colors over the old blues. Congrats on getting one step closer to where you're going, wherever that may be.

:beer:

[Northern Explorer]

I decided on the Firestone air bags over the Airlift air bags because I like how the firestone air bags sit centered on the leaf pack (and centered on the axle). The Airlift brand places the airbags a couple of inches behind the center of the leaf pack. My one concern with the Firestone airbag placement is that the jounce stops are completely removed. Hopefully they are tough enough in the event that bottoming out occurs. I’m sure that there are thousands of both style of airbags on the market and my concerns are unwarranted.

Took 5 hours. Yes, I’m the slowest mechanic on earth.

The first thing that needed to be done was to remove the “locating tabs” on the flat side of the Lock-N-Lift spacers. One set (one set = two spacers) of Lock-N-Lift spacers adds 2 inches to the length of the air bag system for vehicles with 2 inches of lift over stock. The tabs that need to be removed are only used if 2 or 3 kits are put together for vehicles with 4 or 6 inches of lift. The instructions say to use a hammer to knock off the tabs but I felt that a small saw would give me a smother finish.

with tabs
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled010.jpg

tabs removed
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled008.jpg

Showing the inside surface that gets locked to the inside surface of a second spacer.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled006.jpg

I did need to make one run to the hardware store. A new longer bolt was required to attach the air bag to the lower bracket. The bolt that came with the air bag kit wasn’t long enough to fit through the thickness of the Lock-N-Lift spacer and the bolt that came with the Lock-N-Lift spacer didn’t have the right shaped head to be used with the lower bracket of the air bag kit. The closest thing I could find to what I needed is called a plow bolt. 3/8 inch x 1 ¼ inch did the trick.

Left: Bolt that came with air bag kit
Middle: Bolt that came with spacer kit
Right: Plow bolt
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled011.jpg

Showing how new bolt sits in bottom bracket
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled014.jpg

Showing how it looked stock. The jounce bumper needs to be removed.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled015.jpg

Assembly completed
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled016.jpg

Now all I needed to do was run the air lines. I positioned the Schrader valves in the location of the license plate bolt holes.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled024.jpg

30 psi raised the back end up 1 ½ inches to get it back to the height is was at before the camper was put on. I used my mountain bike shock pump to fill up the air bags. 350 pumps each to get to 30 psi. I will probably use my compressor next time.

The stability has improved significantly. Enough so that I will be able to leave the anti sway bar off.

Thanks to kcowyo for his insight on this project.

[kcowyo]

I used my mountain bike shock pump to fill up the air bags. 350 pumps each to get to 30 psi. I will probably use my compressor next time.

Wow, what a masochist. I'd have given up at 300 pumps. ;)

Nicely detailed install. Enjoy the ride -

:campfire:

[opie]

Good job NE. Im interested to see your turck first hand.

[Northern Explorer]

I picked up an external GPS antenna to help get better reception on narrow tree covered roads. In most situations the built in antenna was working just fine but there were those occasions when I would loose the signal. Cloud cover would also contribute to loss of signal.

I put the Antenna in the same spot I have the XM antenna but on the drivers side. I ran the wire behind the dash in the same way I have the power cord set up.

Model GA 25MCX (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=1326)Came with 8 feet of cable
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/gps001.jpg

Tree covered road without external antenna plugged in.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/gps005.jpg

Same place with external antenna plugged in
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/gps009.jpg

[ChrisInVT]

You've got a bunch of work done to that thing.

I'm going to keep following this, as our trucks share a similar platform.

[Prybry]

I decided on the Firestone air bags over the Airlift air bags because I like how the firestone air bags sit centered on the leaf pack (and centered on the axle). The Airlift brand places the airbags a couple of inches behind the center of the leaf pack. My one concern with the Firestone airbag placement is that the jounce stops are completely removed. Hopefully they are tough enough in the event that bottoming out occurs. I’m sure that there are thousands of both style of airbags on the market and my concerns are unwarranted.

Took 5 hours. Yes, I’m the slowest mechanic on earth.

The first thing that needed to be done was to remove the “locating tabs” on the flat side of the Lock-N-Lift spacers. One set (one set = two spacers) of Lock-N-Lift spacers adds 2 inches to the length of the air bag system for vehicles with 2 inches of lift over stock. The tabs that need to be removed are only used if 2 or 3 kits are put together for vehicles with 4 or 6 inches of lift. The instructions say to use a hammer to knock off the tabs but I felt that a small saw would give me a smother finish.

with tabs
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled010.jpg

tabs removed
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled008.jpg

Showing the inside surface that gets locked to the inside surface of a second spacer.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled006.jpg

I did need to make one run to the hardware store. A new longer bolt was required to attach the air bag to the lower bracket. The bolt that came with the air bag kit wasn’t long enough to fit through the thickness of the Lock-N-Lift spacer and the bolt that came with the Lock-N-Lift spacer didn’t have the right shaped head to be used with the lower bracket of the air bag kit. The closest thing I could find to what I needed is called a plow bolt. 3/8 inch x 1 ¼ inch did the trick.

Left: Bolt that came with air bag kit
Middle: Bolt that came with spacer kit
Right: Plow bolt
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled011.jpg

Showing how new bolt sits in bottom bracket
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled014.jpg

Showing how it looked stock. The jounce bumper needs to be removed.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled015.jpg

Assembly completed
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled016.jpg

Now all I needed to do was run the air lines. I positioned the Schrader valves in the location of the license plate bolt holes.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/Airliftandled024.jpg

30 psi raised the back end up 1 ½ inches to get it back to the height is was at before the camper was put on. I used my mountain bike shock pump to fill up the air bags. 350 pumps each to get to 30 psi. I will probably use my compressor next time.

The stability has improved significantly. Enough so that I will be able to leave the anti sway bar off.

Thanks to kcowyo for his insight on this project.

I'm looking to fix the rear sag on my Power Wagon using Airlift air bags...
Just wondering how your setup held up on the trails we went on during the UP trip... had I known about this thread before the trip I'd have gotten a better look during the trip.
Ran a search on air bags and your build up came up!

I'm worried about over extending the bags during full droop... the PW has 10.9" of axle travel in the rear. The bags according to AirLift can handle 9.5" of extension, so by adding a 2" spacer (same ones you used) I'm hoping to make it work.

One other question, when you used the spacers did you need longer mounting bolts? I'm assuming you did.

thanks,

[Northern Explorer]

I'm looking to fix the rear sag on my Power Wagon using Airlift air bags...
Just wondering how your setup held up on the trails we went on during the UP trip... had I known about this thread before the trip I'd have gotten a better look during the trip.
Ran a search on air bags and your build up came up!

I'm worried about over extending the bags during full droop... the PW has 10.9" of axle travel in the rear. The bags according to AirLift can handle 9.5" of extension, so by adding a 2" spacer (same ones you used) I'm hoping to make it work.

One other question, when you used the spacers did you need longer mounting bolts? I'm assuming you did.

thanks,


My setup worked out great. I’ve been really happy with it. It only takes 30 psi to lift the back end up to where it was before the camper was put on. Without the air bags I noticed some minor porpoising at highway speeds if the bumps in the road were at just the right frequency.

I usually run about 45 psi on the road to keep the feel stiff and then off road I lower the psi to about 30 to allow more compression of the airbags and subsequently more travel in the rear. That’s my theory anyway. Kcowyo runs more pressure off road then he does on road so who knows. Whatever works for you I guess.

I’m not sure how the Airlift setup is on a Power Wagon. I choose the Firestone brand because I like how the airbags sit centered on the leaf spring.

The two-inch spacer should take care of any concerns you have with overextending the bags with your truck.

I did need to buy new bolts (plow bolts in picture) but they aren’t as long as you might think. The way the spacers snap together allows you to put nuts on the inside of the spacer (that will make more sense when you get your kit).

You wouldn’t have been able to see my setup anyway. Taking off the tire is the only way to really see it.

[Prybry]

My setup worked out great. I’ve been really happy with it. It only takes 30 psi to lift the back end up to where it was before the camper was put on. Without the air bags I noticed some minor porpoising at highway speeds if the bumps in the road were at just the right frequency.

I usually run about 45 psi on the road to keep the feel stiff and then off road I lower the psi to about 30 to allow more compression of the airbags and subsequently more travel in the rear. That’s my theory anyway. Kcowyo runs more pressure off road then he does on road so who knows. Whatever works for you I guess.

I’m not sure how the Airlift setup is on a Power Wagon. I choose the Firestone brand because I like how the airbags sit centered on the leaf spring.

The two-inch spacer should take care of any concerns you have with overextending the bags with your truck.

I did need to buy new bolts (plow bolts in picture) but they aren’t as long as you might think. The way the spacers snap together allows you to put nuts on the inside of the spacer (that will make more sense when you get your kit).

You wouldn’t have been able to see my setup anyway. Taking off the tire is the only way to really see it.

Based on the instructions I down loaded the bag ends up centered over the axle just like the firestone system. I'm now wondering if it would be better to put a spacer above and below rather than both on one end of the bags? What did the instructions for the spacer say about mounting?

As for axle travel... any idea how much range your setup has? I know the Firestone system says not to lift the truck by the frame to avoid damage to the bags... the Airlift says it's OK to lift the truck that way if the bags are deflated and then only for a short duration... I'm hoping the few seconds my axle is twisted up on the trail will be OK.

One thought I had was running the air line between the bags and using a single line to fill both bags... this would allow the air to move back and forth between the bags when the axel is twisted. Probably wouldn't flow fast enough to let the bags match the trail though. That seems like it would take a much larger air line. Not sure how this would carry the camper... on level road I'm sure it would be fine but it might cause sway on a curve... inducing body roll as the load transfered to the outside. Might be a wild ride.

Maybe an in dash control is a better answer... it would get a workout on the type of trails we were on.

[opie]

Based on the instructions I down loaded the bag ends up centered over the axle just like the firestone system. I'm now wondering if it would be better to put a spacer above and below rather than both on one end of the bags? What did the instructions for the spacer say about mounting?

As for axle travel... any idea how much range your setup has? I know the Firestone system says not to lift the truck by the frame to avoid damage to the bags... the Airlift says it's OK to lift the truck that way if the bags are deflated and then only for a short duration... I'm hoping the few seconds my axle is twisted up on the trail will be OK.

One thought I had was running the air line between the bags and using a single line to fill both bags... this would allow the air to move back and forth between the bags when the axel is twisted. Probably wouldn't flow fast enough to let the bags match the trail though. That seems like it would take a much larger air line. Not sure how this would carry the camper... on level road I'm sure it would be fine but it might cause sway on a curve... inducing body roll as the load transfered to the outside. Might be a wild ride.

Maybe an in dash control is a better answer... it would get a workout on the type of trails we were on.

THought on connecting the bags with 1 line.

Throw a valve in your connecting line. Open it for offroad and close it for onroad. Just need to make sure its open when you are adjusting psi in the bags.

[Prybry]

THought on connecting the bags with 1 line.

Throw a valve in your connecting line. Open it for offroad and close it for onroad. Just need to make sure its open when you are adjusting psi in the bags.

Thinking about it is starting to make my head hurt...

If the axle is pressed up on one side by the trail, the opposite (unloaded) bag would see a increase in pressure and thus try to press that side down rather than fall by gravity (droop) so now the extension of the pressurized bag comes into question...

Does a airbag have more extension fully deflated or fully inflated?
My guess is that the low pressure bag will stretch more than the high pressure stiffend one.

This is starting to sound like I'm moving in the opposite direction...

Guess I will put them on as intended and see what happens...

[opie]

Thinking about it is starting to make my head hurt...

If the axle is pressed up on one side by the trail, the opposite (unloaded) bag would see a increase in pressure and thus try to press that side down rather than fall by gravity (droop) so now the extension of the pressurized bag comes into question...

Does a airbag have more extension fully deflated or fully inflated?
My guess is that the low pressure bag will stretch more than the high pressure stiffend one.

This is starting to sound like I'm moving in the opposite direction...

Guess I will put them on as intended and see what happens...

DISCLAIMER! Im by no means an engineer!!

I think you would have to worry about the pressure moving from one to another in such a manner as to cause a problem if you were relying solely on the bags for your suspension. You still have the leaves so I dont think youll see the abrupt, major psi swings you are thinking about.

[Northern Explorer]

Based on the instructions I down loaded the bag ends up centered over the axle just like the firestone system. I'm now wondering if it would be better to put a spacer above and below rather than both on one end of the bags? What did the instructions for the spacer say about mounting?

As for axle travel... any idea how much range your setup has? I know the Firestone system says not to lift the truck by the frame to avoid damage to the bags... the Airlift says it's OK to lift the truck that way if the bags are deflated and then only for a short duration... I'm hoping the few seconds my axle is twisted up on the trail will be OK.

One thought I had was running the air line between the bags and using a single line to fill both bags... this would allow the air to move back and forth between the bags when the axel is twisted. Probably wouldn't flow fast enough to let the bags match the trail though. That seems like it would take a much larger air line. Not sure how this would carry the camper... on level road I'm sure it would be fine but it might cause sway on a curve... inducing body roll as the load transfered to the outside. Might be a wild ride.

Maybe an in dash control is a better answer... it would get a workout on the type of trails we were on.

The way the two inch spacers are made, each of the one inch spacer sections needs to be snaped together in order to mount them. I don't think you will be able to mount one on each side.

I don't know how much axle travel I have right now so I can't help you there.

In dash controls would be great. I just went with simplicity (easy installation) on my truck.

[hikingff77]

I got to ask, where's the antenna bracket from? I want to get one for a scanner and a CB.

[hikingff77]

BTW, where'd this camper come from?

[Northern Explorer]

Here you go.


I got to ask, where's the antenna bracket from? I want to get one for a scanner and a CB.

Firestik SS174-Hood Mount (http://www.walcottcb.com/firestik-ss174-hoodtrunk-channel-mount-p-312.html)


BTW, where'd this camper come from?

I drove to Eagle WI and picked it up at Go Anywhere (http://www.go-anywhere.us/). The owner of Go Anywhere is a member of ExPo.

[nmatcek]

Great job on your truck. I just joined this forum but have been on coloradofans and 355nation for some time. I also have a Colorado and I was wondering if the company that made your rock sliders is still in business? Would LOVE to find a set like that!

[opie]

Great job on your truck. I just joined this forum but have been on coloradofans and 355nation for some time. I also have a Colorado and I was wondering if the company that made your rock sliders is still in business? Would LOVE to find a set like that!

I dont believe they are.

[Northern Explorer]

New tires....again.

I replaced my BFG AT 265/75 16's with a set of BFG KM2's this summer. The KM2's have worked great and I would highly recommend them. Now that winter is just around the corner I wanted to put my AT's back on. They have been wearing well and still have a lot of life left in them.

I decided to go a slightly different direction. Instead of paying to have my tires remounted every spring and then again every fall I decided to just get a brand new set of BFG AT's and have them mounted on my original Chevy Colorado rims. I decided to go with 33x9.5 on my Chevy 15x6.5 rims. They are slightly taller and this setup weights 12 pounds less per tire. I'm hoping this will help with gas milage.

The old AT's will be saved for my wife's Xterra.

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/BFGAT33x95onrim004.jpg

Looking a bit naked without the camper or topper.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/BFGAT33x95onrim008.jpg

http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/BFGAT33x95onrim011.jpg

[Cacher]

U gotta love the Hummer rims-nice personal touch.

[evan]

Cool truck and I like the skinnies in the last pictures. I've heard skinny tires work well for winter conditions, how have they been for you?

You mentioned you were hoping for an improvement in gas mileage when you had the 4.11's installed. Did you notice a difference?

[Token]

Another I-5 3.5 Cool looking rig.. I think we need to put our heads together and talk about some of these mods.. I've got an H3 and a lot of the stuff should cross over pretty easily.. Like those Senergy Shackles you went for.. The front YJ +1.5 shackles give you just under 2 inches of lift in back for about $25 if you shop smart. I've got a good source in some skids to go under all that crap that hangs under the rear axle to keep from banging stuff up.. Extended Bump stops for the front end, etc, etc..

Biggest question I've got is about that diff drop deal.. First I've heard of it.. Not sure if it'd be worth the hassle for and extra half inch or not.. I've (most folks wheeling H3s) had more problems with the rear suspension.. I'd turned my torsion bars up a bit up front to level things out.. Gained about 2 inches over stock which made a world of difference in getting over stuff.. Was elvel for a while, but the rear springs started sagging.. Did the shackles in back and gained almost 2" (maybe 1" over what it was before the sagging springs.. Of course two years later, the rear has once again sagged below OEM New.. Guessing my next stop will be an axle flip.. Get the rear end back up higher and get rid of all the crap under the axle that keeps dragging and catching on rocks.

Anyroads...

[Northern Explorer]

I need to read my own thread more often.


U gotta love the Hummer rims-nice personal touch.

They have worked out well. I originally went with them simply because I needed 16 inch rims to run the 265/75 16 inch tires. In the beginning I didn't know too much about rim sizing so I didn't know what would fit. I saw a few other Colorado owners go with the hummer rims so I knew they would work.


Cool truck and I like the skinnies in the last pictures. I've heard skinny tires work well for winter conditions, how have they been for you?

You mentioned you were hoping for an improvement in gas mileage when you had the 4.11's installed. Did you notice a difference?

My 33 x 9.5 inch BFG AT's have worked great over this past winter. I am really happy with them.

I have made too many changes to the truck to figure out what mods have helped or hurt the gas mileage. The main consideration is the weight and with this being heavier the gas mileage has gone down.


Another I-5 3.5 Cool looking rig.. I think we need to put our heads together and talk about some of these mods.. I've got an H3 and a lot of the stuff should cross over pretty easily.. Like those Senergy Shackles you went for.. The front YJ +1.5 shackles give you just under 2 inches of lift in back for about $25 if you shop smart. I've got a good source in some skids to go under all that crap that hangs under the rear axle to keep from banging stuff up.. Extended Bump stops for the front end, etc, etc..

Biggest question I've got is about that diff drop deal.. First I've heard of it.. Not sure if it'd be worth the hassle for and extra half inch or not.. I've (most folks wheeling H3s) had more problems with the rear suspension.. I'd turned my torsion bars up a bit up front to level things out.. Gained about 2 inches over stock which made a world of difference in getting over stuff.. Was elvel for a while, but the rear springs started sagging.. Did the shackles in back and gained almost 2" (maybe 1" over what it was before the sagging springs.. Of course two years later, the rear has once again sagged below OEM New.. Guessing my next stop will be an axle flip.. Get the rear end back up higher and get rid of all the crap under the axle that keeps dragging and catching on rocks.

Anyroads...

Some good ideas there. First off the diff drop was a really easy mod. I have no idea if it's helping anything but for how cheap and easy it was I figured what the heck. As far as the back end goes, my airbags let me fine tune to any road or load conditions that I may encounter. They don't work for all applications but they have been good for me.

[gmcpimpin]

Cool truck, I have a canyon. Have you thought about getting a shackle bar from Tedge?

[Northern Explorer]

Cool truck, I have a canyon. Have you thought about getting a shackle bar from Tedge?

I've considered it but I'm really trying to minimize any extra weight at this point.

[Regcabguy]

Earlier this week the wife and I were in Anza Borrego wheeling. Off in the distance I saw a truck making good time. To my surprise appeared a stock Chevy Colorado crewcab with seven occupants. The truck's ride was controlled and succeeded in not launching the three guys riding in the bed! Pretty impressive for a bone stock truck. It didn't have any emblems or stickers indicating an upgraded suspension. Kudos to Chevy!

[Northern Explorer]

I made a couple of changes in preparation for my three week Newfoundland / Labrador trip that I will be leaving on July 3rd.

Full size spare
I ordered a fifth H3 rim from ebay and just barely squeezed my 265/75 16 E rated BFG AT into the stock spare tire location.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC02986.jpg

Shelving unit
I also removed my back seat and constructed a basic (very basic) shelving unit in order to be able to carry all of the gear I will need.

Passenger side
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC02984.jpg
Seven extra gallons of water will come in handy.

Drivers side
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC02985.jpg
I made a place for my original donut spare tire. I figure I can limp back to civilization on this if all else fails.

[Northern Explorer]

Truck is at the stealership getting the transmission taken out to diagnose an "internal problem". This is going to hurt.$$$:Mechanic:$$$

[Mr. D]

nice build interior and exterior of your truck

[gmcpimpin]

So what did the problem end up being?

[BrodyAzure]

if your driving around at night, a good investment would be some HID's. I know theyre mostly used on litte tuners, but they are a hell of alot brighter better. i just had 6k pure white installed for my low beam and 3k yellow for my high beam, and i have the relay for high beams too! and its made a HUGE difference

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a363/Brody_Fuk/DSCF2492.jpg

[Northern Explorer]

nice build interior and exterior of your truck

Thank you



So what did the problem end up being?

I think the guy said a tooth had snapped off or something like that. Anyway, I had them put one in with a factory warranty so I should be good to go for a while. Just a side note, it happened after I had already taken the camper off for the season so I don't think it had anything to do with extra weight.


if your driving around at night, a good investment would be some HID's. I know theyre mostly used on litte tuners, but they are a hell of alot brighter better. i just had 6k pure white installed for my low beam and 3k yellow for my high beam, and i have the relay for high beams too! and its made a HUGE difference


I have my eyes on some Lightforce 170 Striker HID's. These will be a huge step up from what I have now.

[Northern Explorer]

That didn't take long:). I just ordered a set of Lightforce 170 Striker HID's from here (http://www.4wheelparts.com/Lighting-and-Lighting-Accessories/Lightforce-170-Striker-HID-Driving-Lights.aspx?t_c=14&t_s=448&t_pt=101014&t_pl=101650). Best price I could find $387.89 with free shipping. What sold me on these is that they won't rust. Carbon composite construction and stainless steel mounting hardware.

[Rock]

That's a bummer dude. Sierra Expedition has them for $217.99, http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index.php?l=product_list&c=66. Return those before they ship and check out this site.

[evan]

That's a bummer dude. Sierra Expedition has them for $217.99, http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index.php?l=product_list&c=66. Return those before they ship and check out this site.
The ones he bought are HID.

[Northern Explorer]

That's a bummer dude. Sierra Expedition has them for $217.99, http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index.php?l=product_list&c=66. Return those before they ship and check out this site.

I don't believe those are the HID versions.

[Northern Explorer]

Finally got the Lightforce Striker 170 HID's installed:wings:http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC03452.jpg

location of ballasts
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC03456.jpg

Comparison photos:
low beams
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC03408.jpg
low beams + high beams (using a high beam kit post # 38 of this thread)
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC03409.jpg
low beam + high beam + Lightforce Striker 170 HID
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC03410.jpg
Considering a monkey sitting on my bumper holding a cigarette lighter and a piece of tin foil would have given off more light then my old off road lights, these are a huge improvement.

I also decided to relocate my scanguage. I didn't like how I had it set up in front of my odometer. I drilled a small hole in the A piller cover to run the wire through.
http://i251.photobucket.com/albums/gg284/NorthernExplorer/DSC03454.jpg

[Jeremysp1993]

Nice Colorado you have there. I kinda wanted one of them, but instead i got a 05 Dakota. I chose the dakota cuz its a bit bigger, and its a half ton. What kind of mileage do you get with your 3.5?

[roostercruiser]

pretty neat colorado. whats the scangauge?

[Northern Explorer]

Nice Colorado you have there. I kinda wanted one of them, but instead i got a 05 Dakota. I chose the dakota cuz its a bit bigger, and its a half ton. What kind of mileage do you get with your 3.5?

Best ever highway milage in 100% stock condition = 26mpg

Full on expedition mode with all my gear and modifications = 13 to 16 average mpg


pretty neat colorado. whats the scangauge?

Code reader. Check it out here (http://www.scangauge.com/).

[wyojoe]

I found this thread a couple days ago, and finally just finished reading it. You've given me quite a few ideas about what to do with my Colorado.
I have a Z71 4x4 Crew Cab that I bought new, and it's still basically stock. I have considered lifting it, and probably will do the TB crank/Add-a-leaf lift.
I'm not too crazy about spending a ton of money on a 4" lift kit just to have to buy new wheels too! I may also do a small body lift, and see if I can get 33" tires on it.

I like the rock sliders, and believe that the ones Trailgear sells can be made to work. They look a lot like the ones you have. I will probably be getting a set and figuring out how to make them work.

Some of the other modifications were simple to implement, but quite useful, so I'll probably copy them on my rig. The scangauge and parking brake cable modification are two things I'm considering at the moment. I also like the CB antenna mount. I am currently using a magnet mount on top of the cab, but I don't care too much for the cable coming in through the rear door. Your mount looks clean, and appears to work well.

[Northern Explorer]

Happy I could give you some ideas. Those magnet mounts will scratch the hell out of your paint if you leave them on long enough.

[nmatcek]

Really liking your rig man. Check out my 'rado build. http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/63879-2008-Chevrolet-Colorado-build I'd love to get some feedback.

[scsykes]

I stumbled upon your thread today for the first time today, nice work on getting your Colorado to where it is today. I have a 2007 Chevy Colorado Z-71 Crew Cab automatic. It has been surprisingly capable off road, however the down hill engine braking is lacking even when shifting into lower gears, in 4 low and in 4 high. There just isn't the compression holdback that I'm used to with my 1999 2door Tahoe.

Has anyone else experienced this issue and if so, what was/is the resolution?

Thanks, I will be putting some photos of my Tahoe and Colorado in the near future.

[Northern Explorer]

When I put the 4.11 Yukon gears in it helped a lot with engine breaking.