Builds 76 Fj40 Face Lift

[Chungas Revenge]

Bodi Werk(z)…

 

[White Stripe]

Is the time frame going about how you expected thus far for the new tub? Or did you think it would go a bit slower or faster?

 

[Chungas Revenge]

Is the time frame going about how you expected thus far for the new tub? Or did you think it would go a bit slower or faster?

Edit:*

*It is going faster than I anticipated.

That’s even taking into consideration some of the nuances with the AQ tub/cowl/ windshield. The work through on the HT design fitment and the execution took some time. Getting the gaps just right was the end state And that required some mods. I don’t want to steal to much of the thunder from the guys at the shop Ref: the HT fitment. But, that hard top is “custom fit” to my LC with the “full Aluminum” setup. If you check out the high $$$ builds its hard if not impossible to find an HT build. @Jdc1 has some really good notes/ideas on putting together a lessons learned from some of the solutions.

We also had a couple of operational pauses through the hunting season/holiday season that we planned on.

In reality, I held them up inadvertently with the rear crossmember and decision to go with the stock tire carrier.
Not just because I know these guys, they have honestly gone full tilt boogie. You and I have both seen shops that will let a project languish getting moved down the priority list. Not so here…The enthusiasm is contagious..

Funny thing is I was kicking the idea of an aluminum tub around eight years ago. I drew a lot of that decision out of your thread..

 

[Chungas Revenge]

Skim coat on last PM and baking nicely under the UV light…

@White Stripe when I read your question last PM I was less than 24hrs out of Gallbladder surgery. I juxtaposed the question in my head, had to go back and edit my response. I want to make sure I rectify any misconception I may have caused now that the cobwebs have cleared up.

The team at RCLC is ahead of the power curve. If you’ve noticed, it’s been steady as she goes throughout the entire process. Couldn’t be happier with their effort. I’m the 1st “official 40 series” in the door under the RCLC banner. Talking w/ @Jdc1 last PM, if the wind is right there may be a touch of color sooonly…...

 

[knuckle47]

So… you painted it sand again? Sorry, couldn’t resist

 

[Jdc1]

So… you painted it sand again? Sorry, couldn’t resist

Definitely alot of sanding going on.

 

[Chungas Revenge]

UV primer went on Friday. Curing under the UV Light(s).

 

[Chungas Revenge]

Sanding is sexy.

I’ve been somewhat out of the net the past few days. Stopped in the Hospital for a Gallbladder removal and walked out with a free Virus. Meh, it’s probably buried in the bill somewhere .

Caught up with the trail boss this AM. We‘re somewhere mid voyage on the spray-sand-repeat process TBD. Probably make a trip up I77N next week for a reality check and hopefully pick up the seats (all) for drop off at the local upholstery shop. Something in a marine grade vinyl in the hue of brown. Undecided on the door cards. I like the idea of Non-OE black. Sticking with an OE-ish headliner for some contrast. Still have time before hitting that decision point(s).

Probably taking a scheduled “operational pause” till mid/late FEB (Mark on the wall). I’ll need some time to prep the Barbie garage..


The digital translation doesn’t do either of the samples justice.

Edit: vinyl interior swatch against the custom Mule Brown paint sample.

 

[rkymtnflyfisher]

Stopped in the Hospital for a Gallbladder removal and walked out with a free Virus.

They have to keep you hooked somehow!

 

[Chungas Revenge]

They have to keep you hooked somehow!

I’ve definitely been flop’en on the bank.

My 1st personal experience with the system. Had a guy in a lab coat poke his head in the door. Asked how I was feeling, did I need anything etc etc. showed up on my bill as a $150 consultation. Took less than 2 minutes give or take.

”Denso”..

 

[Chungas Revenge]

On deck for round II.

 

[Green Bean]

I'm very impressed with the amount of blocking and preparation that @Jdc1 and his crew are putting Mule v.II through. There is no doubt that the end result will be amazing.

 

[Jdc1]

I'm very impressed with the amount of blocking and preparation that @Jdc1 and his crew are putting Mule v.II through. There is no doubt that the end result will be amazing.

Thanks, @Green Bean . We are really happy with getting to work with all new metal. Time is able to be saved on the floor and firewall not having to fill or block. Goal is to see color this month.

 

[Chungas Revenge]

I'm very impressed with the amount of blocking and preparation that @Jdc1 and his crew are putting Mule v.II through. There is no doubt that the end result will be amazing.

Thanks, @Green Bean . We are really happy with getting to work with all new metal. Time is able to be saved on the floor and firewall not having to fill or block. Goal is to see color this month.

Their work is top shelf…

The Mule, in all its diamond plated glory, was a humble beast by any standard. 2.0 is going to be a Mule of a different color.

This is not a resto, this is not a resto, this is not a resto…OK, maybe just a wee bit of a resto...

 

[Chungas Revenge]

Better shot of the Tub/Cowl waiting in the bull pen for Round II.

 

[OlYellr]

Nothing like the Major Leagues… great work @Jdc1 + team.

 

[Chungas Revenge]

Round II is in the History Books. (Tub)

Take a bow ”Dan-O’”. Victory Pose. Pretty sure Wilson was a Viking in another life..

 

[70fj40]

Mule 2.0 it going next level, it may never see a bird field again. It will take its rightful place among Muds Elite. Relegated to the trap range and Sunday brunches, it will definitely fit in with the well heeled crowd.

 

[rkymtnflyfisher]

Mule 2.0 it going next level, it may never see a bird field again. It will take its rightful place among Muds Elite. Relegated to the trap range and Sunday brunches, it will definitely fit in with the well heeled crowd.

Not without rust!

 

[Jdc1]

Mule 2.0 it going next level, it may never see a bird field again. It will take its rightful place among Muds Elite. Relegated to the trap range and Sunday brunches, it will definitely fit in with the well heeled crowd.

It does have sliders on it….