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Thought about starting it there, but it's a jumble of builds. I wanted to stay in the D II relevant section because all the other DII owners can easily view and add their input.
Usually go to the build section and rarely check in here. This section is normally folks looking for repair issues. Most of the builders, check out that section and offer ideas there.
Thx Brian! I am considering this a 'repair' just happens to be a repair of everything....
Thx OverRover for the tips about the Euro vendors. those are nice! I really wanted a set because they have 6 degree fronts too. The terra firma bars rub inside of 33's on a tight turn, but are made well. I did not get a chance to compare them the the OE and measure the true degree change....
After getting the rear end all tightened up, time for front end. Wayyyy too much steering play to be safe (almost 200000 miles! on original unit). So, replaced steering box with NOS unit, all new ball joints, new steering lower shaft. Have a terrafirma RTC steering strut for defender. I modified the male end with a female heavy duty M10x1.25 ball joint end, see pic. Need to install it next weekend. Did not feel like welding on a poly shock end, but if it is too harsh, I might.
Finally, with the new steering parts and new suspension bushings, I feel safe driving her down the road. No more wandering all over......
Just wanted to stop by and say thank you for the 3D print models! I'll definitely be printing the gauge cluster retainers when I get some time at work.
Great build thread, keep it up!
Thx for comments! Finally got a set of Adrenaline 4x4 front caster links 6 degrees(make sure to check the stamp on the end of the links for a '6'). Super easy to deal with this company via email, and had them to me in less than 2 weeks. The steering is probably as good as it will get now, on the road. Can do one finger turns, where before, it was a struggle to get back to center with oem links, and moderately better with 3 degree terrafirma links.. These went 'right in' without any issues(advert facing engine block). The OEM rear bushing pressed right in. The fronts have split poly bushings, also fit no issue. Of note, the adrenaline 4x4 links are solid , with a pipe down the middle. I suspect that with enough force, they would bend more easily than the terrafirma version, and both more easily than the forged OEM links. But on positive note, no more nasty tire rub on tight turns.....
also installed new cats from summit racing (magnaflow) not sure why summit has different prices for each one, when I was in the store, they only had one part number. Anyway, they fit right on no issues. I did not like the way that they neck down right after the header mounting flange, but the headers are narrow too... Sound definitely has a touch more bass.... And four new o2 sensors. Be careful of the cheap amazon kit, it only comes with rear sensors, packed 4 into a box, and sold as a complete kit!
had my AC recharged w/ 1 lb, ice cold, no leaks ....
Have the left over set of terrafirma 3 degree caster links if anyone interested...... pm me
Have some interior upgrades to do yet, and the electrical, and the welding of patch passenger foot-well...plenty to keep me busy....
