RADO's Off Road Rig- Build Thread

[VXorado]

Project ZU Modifications
*Project ZU is just my fun way of saying, designed and built by me. Most of the projects take forever to finish because I'm usually figuring them as I go along.

Rear Tire Carrier
Description: Tailgate flattened and built to carry a 35" tire.
Working time: 6 months (on & off)
Link: Project ZU: Rear Tire Carrier


Headlights --- Now Owned by ND92
Description: LED Daytime Running Lights built into headlight bezel. Additionally, I installed Morimoto D2S projectors, 3five 35w ballasts, 5000k bulbs and blacked out reflector. Gun Smoked Lamin-x applied to lens.
Working time: 5 months- mostly design
Link: Early design thread

DRLs


Headlights On


Close-up


Hella 500 Driving Lights
Description: I wanted Hella Driving Lights embedded in the bumper for a clean look. I used a 4 foot piece of fiberglass unistrut as an internal light bracket because the unistrut fits perfectly between cladding turn signal & OEM round light. Next, I carefully cut out a shape for the driving lights and used a mounting bolt to secure the lights to the unistrut.
Working time: 4 hours



Hood Insert
Description: I wanted to add a functional heat extractor to the hood insert. I used a reverse hood scoop sold aftermarket for the Subaru WRX/STi. I fiberglassed the reverse hood scoop into the insert and had the insert professionally sprayed with Line-x
Working time: 8 Months (on & off) - first fiberglassing experience and I kept improving the quality over time.







Air Compressor
Description: My goal was to install a belt driven York air compressor to make an on-board air system capable of 10 CFM. I used a York A/C compressor from a 70s Ford that I picked up for $20. I wanted to mount the compressor on the engine but couldn't find the room. Instead, I moved the battery and made a mount for the compressor to attach to the alternator with a V-belt pulley. I ran the air hose back to a tank behind the rear seat. The tank has a pressure switch that will automatically cycle the compressor when necessary. Unfortunately, I can't run the system full time because the compressor causes vibration through the VX. I leave the belt off unless I'm using the compressor for filling tires or impact tools. I can fill one 35x12.50x15 tire 15 psi in 1:20 sec. Overall, a successful failure.
Working time: 2 months

Compressor & Relocated Battery

Air Tank with Hose