SMKYTXN's Build

Thanks bud. It took me quite a while to get it all buttoned up. I've spent at least three weekends working on it. Probably 20 hours. In terms of time spent I didn't save any money, but I wanted to build this myself.

 

Most of the time DIY project you don't really save that much money.

I think most of the time it is self gratification if any thing .

 

and a better design than just about anything out there. the flat plate ones with turned up edges lack the strength to take a center hit without risk of major bending. all pro's transfer case skid does a slightly better job, but is still doesn't have the strength of something like this.

Don't know how many hours Nathan has in the finish welding and UHMW work, but it took us an entire day just to get the initial frame cut and tacked up.

 

who did the pipe relocate?

 

I had a local muffler shop relocate it. We ended up using the stock y-pipe and welded in two new runners. I picked up the header blanket off of Amazon.

 

what did they charge you for the work?

 

$75

 

Initial layout, cutting, and tacking - 8hrs
Cutting of infill pieces and drilling holes - 4 hours
Final welding - 4 hours
UHMW shaping and painting - 6 hours

This thing is tough. I lifted the truck nearly off the ground using only one bar.

If I were to build it again I would have a plate bent for the center section instead of cutting small individual pieces. It would be nice to tuck it up higher but with the use of pipe you can't go any higher without contacting the transfer case.

 

Usually about $75 -$100.

 

Been daydreaming about building a hauler for the truck, but I think this is the better option. Think the chinook has the range to get me to Moab?

 

that would be bad ass. I but i dont think you can carry your truck like that .

 

I'll just build some lift points into the exo cage. No worries!

 

well then you are good to go.

 

Probably need a few refueling stops. Noisy ass things anyway.

 

Very cool picture.

 

hope you washed underneath your truck after the dip in the ocean.

 

First stop we made after airing back up was a DIY pressure wash.

 

The last thing I wanted to do was drive in salt water, but there wasn't any other way to get down there this time. We did hit the trucks with the pressure washer as soon as we came off the beach.

I plan to get under the truck again when I get to my uncles. I'm headed to Fayetteville AR for the fourth. We're going to run a section of the Trans American Trail while I'm up there. Should be fun.