RADO's Off Road Rig- Build Thread

[nfpgasmask]

This build is lookin good. Keep up the good work. Nothing like a stand out VX build.

Bart

[VXorado]

want.... want..... WANT!!!!!

Well you'll probably get your chance.

Bigmeat came up with an awesome idea that was only on sale for a short while. Many Isuzu owners (including me) were really disappointed they wouldn't have the opportunity to buy SFIFS. A year ago, I contacted Bigmeat to request a unit. He wasn't interested in building any more unit but offered to sell me the remaining parts. I'm not looking into taking over production but rather open up one last opportunity.

I'm also working on a couple improvements for the pull pin which at times can be nearly impossible to pull/push . I'm also trying to design a push button system from the cab.

Updates will follow (with pics).

This build is lookin good. Keep up the good work. Nothing like a stand out VX build.

Bart

Thanks Bart.

I thoroughly enjoy reading your build threads on the planet. VX inspiration since day one ownership and the best looking Trooper I've ever seen.

[tribalvx]

how do you like your LED bar? im still waiting for my roof rack to be built so i can install my 40 rigid industries on

[VXorado]

The LED bar is awesome. I can't say I've used it much but I know there will be plenty of opportunity next summer. A 40" Rigid should be bright as the sun... maybe a little wide for the roof though. I measured the roof width 38".

I did have to lower the bar from it's first mounted position. The wind was catching under it and causing noise. I also blacked out the reflector for a sleeker look.

Blacked out reflector


LED bar mounted lower so there's no gap between the basket and light.

[Ldub]

You're my hero Ferris VX'r...

[Nigel Caffiene]

Do you have a close picture of the back-up camera? I was thinking of doing something similar.

[VXorado]

Do you have a close picture of the back-up camera? I was thinking of doing something similar.

I'm reworking the backup camera. I actually have it off right now because I'm upgrading to a CCD camera at some point. I mounted the screen in the lower ashtray console a couple years ago. I plan to make a fiberglass mount tilted upward when I get the new improved setup. Before the spare tire carrier, I mounted the camera in the half moon. Definitely the best location to mount the camera.

Old picture


Screen location


I'm sure the new camera setup will make it to this build page at some point. It's just hard to find time for all of these projects.

[VXorado]

It slumbers...


I installed the SFIFS kit on Sunday and did a quick test last night for suspension flex. I lifted the front passenger side tire until the rear passenger tire started lifting from the ground. I also did the same test on the rear tire and measured height in each scenario.

Results:
Front tire lift with SFIFS off: 24.2"
Front tire lift with SFIFS on: 26.5"

Rear tire with SFIFS off: 27.2"
Rear tire with SFIFS on: 28.8"

I'm happy with the results. I have 2.5" of down travel left in the IFS and the SFIFS used all of it to level out the VX when I lifted the front tire. Less lift or spacers on the upper control arm would add to the articulation. I bet a stock height VX/Trooper would get 5-6" in the same test because of the increased down travel.

Here are a few pics of the suspension in action.
SFIFS off

SFIFS on

Crosslink off center with lifted tire


I now know first hand how much of a pain the pin is to deal with. I have plans for a new pin design that i'll be testing soon. After that, I'll be making one production run for the new kits. There will be a thread before production to take orders.

[evillecutter]

i like your fire extinguisher

[VXorado]

i like your fire extinguisher

Me too. Hopefully I never have to use it.

[Mile High VX]

Me too. Hopefully I never have to use it.

Unless it's to help out a motorist in need...

[VXorado]

Unless it's to help out a motorist in need...

Good call, I'll fix it.

Hopefully I'll never have to use it... on a Vehicross.

[whiplash]

I am stoked for the SFIFS kits! It's taking all i have to patiently wait

[VXorado]

I am stoked for the SFIFS kits! It's taking all i have to patiently wait

Most of the interest in SFIFS is on the planet, good to know there's someone here that wants a kit. I'm just finalizing a new design to make the pin more accessible. I'm also working on an pnuematic setup for the pin with a cab push button. If the pneumatic system works, it will be an order option. I should have some pricing information from the machine shop in 2-3 weeks.

This will likely be a one time deal.

[Etfren]

Cool to see the SFIFS in action on your rig and glad someone got some scientific numbers. That pin is a total pain so I can't wait for your solution to it. Glad I could have a small part in helping out the Isuzu community with the kit.

Keep up the good work!