TheOtherSide
Observer
Hello Zuki Folks!
I've had the gas guzzling V8 beasts over the years...
My Grand Cherokee
My Suburban
I wanted something that will not break the bank every time I head down the road to do some exploring. So I tried to go small...
My Sidekick 2dr...
But the 2dr Sidekick was just too small to start on the project... seeing as I have 3 sons... need something larger.
So... to the point of this thread. I'm looking for the right year of 4DR Sidekick (Tracker) as a starting point. I'd daily drive it and start collecting parts to build it into a nice and simple yet enjoyable Overland Exploration rig. I know the 2dr sidekicks have a rot problem at the rear seatbelt anchors... trying to avoid that. Looking for a solid body that will drive for now.
The plans:
4dr Sidekick... painted flat Sahara Sand
31-33" tires... depending on how things go... but likely 31's and an obvious lift to support the tire size.
Stock axles and manual transmission.
T-case is up in the air if you can double these ones... but far from a priority at this point.
Will be yanking the engine and replace with a VW 1.9L Turbo Diesel... the fully mechanical injection... not the newer TDI.
Snorkel and higher exit exhaust in case it needs to go swimming.
Winch & tougher bumpers
Manual hubs... unless they come with them.
So that's the plan... but now to find the starting truck. So if anyone has any pointers on what years to stay away from or which ones are good etc... I'm all ears... and appreciate any info.
Thx!
I've had the gas guzzling V8 beasts over the years...
My Grand Cherokee
My Suburban
I wanted something that will not break the bank every time I head down the road to do some exploring. So I tried to go small...
My Sidekick 2dr...
But the 2dr Sidekick was just too small to start on the project... seeing as I have 3 sons... need something larger.
So... to the point of this thread. I'm looking for the right year of 4DR Sidekick (Tracker) as a starting point. I'd daily drive it and start collecting parts to build it into a nice and simple yet enjoyable Overland Exploration rig. I know the 2dr sidekicks have a rot problem at the rear seatbelt anchors... trying to avoid that. Looking for a solid body that will drive for now.
The plans:
4dr Sidekick... painted flat Sahara Sand
31-33" tires... depending on how things go... but likely 31's and an obvious lift to support the tire size.
Stock axles and manual transmission.
T-case is up in the air if you can double these ones... but far from a priority at this point.
Will be yanking the engine and replace with a VW 1.9L Turbo Diesel... the fully mechanical injection... not the newer TDI.
Snorkel and higher exit exhaust in case it needs to go swimming.
Winch & tougher bumpers
Manual hubs... unless they come with them.
So that's the plan... but now to find the starting truck. So if anyone has any pointers on what years to stay away from or which ones are good etc... I'm all ears... and appreciate any info.
Thx!