Drove around a bit in the fresh snow here in Brooklyn...inadvertently tested out the TCS a time or two!

On the to-do list: get the front grille to sit where it ought to so that the hood will fully latch. Front end trim has all been a bit out of whack after installing a new steel bumper a few weeks ago.

 

Removed SVS from underside of ABS unit.

It tested bad. Totally open-circuit regardless of switch positions. There seemed to be a tiny trace of brake fluid, but much much less than "a drop".

Anyway, ordered new seals and a new SVS.

Also removed broken stud from exhaust manifold, chased out threads with a tap, installed new studs w/ antiseize- and reinstalled with new gaskets to head and y pipe.

So now, when a head gasket goes it'll be a piece of cake. 🎂

 

Installed a 12,000 lb Badlands winch

 

got out and actually found a trail that wasn't completely snow bound. I'm in desperate need of new springs before my trip to Moab next month. Going to go with RTE 3" once I can sell a few things to fund the spring and hopefully an extended watts link and adjustable front shock towers...

 

In an effort to chase down some gremlins I opted to install some new spark plugs today. I went with some NGK BKR6EGP 7092 will see how they go.

 

Pressure tested and found my coolant leak, new radiator here we go.

 

Since l twisted the front diff out of the 110...drove my wife's Dll and serviced it for her.

Oil change, dropped front shaft/greased cardan joint, lubed and exercises the hi/low shifter cable, repaired small anti-freeze leak at rad hose (clamp), removed blower motor to remove oak leaves, rotated tires and washed. Damn thing looks pretty good all cleaned up.

It was weird driving to work in 10° temps...and actually not feeling like it was 10° inside the vehicle...and what a difference in handling and ride...and quiet.

Brian.

 

pulled a 6x12 covered trailer from Chicago to St. Louis with my '04 that has the Crower Cam. overall not too bad but averaged roughly 8-9 mpg.

 

Mpg sounds really good with the trailer.

 

well, that's reassuring. wasn't sure what to expect. but figured with the trailer, tools and winter mix fuel it wouldn't be good.

it really did pull easily. i drove 70 mph or so the entire way.