Green Trails @ Rausch Creek - What Do I Need to do to my 40?

[RWBeringer4x4]

Ok all, I'm sure this has been asked before but haven't found much by searching...

I'm getting to the point in my build where I can actually think about joining you guys for a wheeling excursion one of these months. I've still got a bit of work to do yet but the fact that my truck survived the drive to Lancaster this winter was encouraging. A couple of things working against me:

1. I have NEVER wheeled before - hoping I might be able to bum a ride as a passenger for a trip or two before I attempt anything.
2. Rausch Creek is 110 miles from my house and I don't have a way to tow my 40. Yes, this means I intend to drive a 44 year old FJ40 100 miles, wheel it, and then hopefully drive it home... Which means I'll likely stick to the "easy" stuff so there's less risk of breaking my ride home.

My first question - am I asking for trouble? I'm honestly not sure if I'm insane for contemplating this...

Second question - Assuming I'm not crazy for considering it - what, realistically, do I need to bring in terms of recovery gear, tools, etc. and what modifications are a "must" for a 40 in its natural habitat?

Some basics:

• My FJ40 is a 1975 with a 350 conversion; carbureted, running a Quadrajet. Stock Toyota 4-speed and T-case w/ T-case savers
• There's an Aussie (lunchbox) locker in the rear
• Stock Springs, mildly oversized shackles (maybe 1" lift) and (awful) load leveler shocks, slightly trimmed/flared rear quarters
• Saginaw Steering
• BFG KM3's (brand new) with full-size spare
• Knuckles/Fine-Spline birfields and steering components from a FJ62
• 4-wheel disk brakes
• Tube Bumpers front and rear

Most everything has been gone through at this point - new brake/fuel lines, solid mechanical baselining, fresh fluids. Rebuilt T-case, new clutch, new engine has ~1000mi on it. Only thing questionable is a bit of whine/"chugging" in neutral from the transmission input bearing - but I have no issues shifting.

Tools and Gear:

• Basic assortment of metric wrenches
• High lift jack (unsecured) with a winch kit

Some concerns:

• No winch; no D-rings
• No skid plate
• Not much lift
• No radio
• No tow chains/recovery straps
• No tow-rig/trailer
• 11mpg highway

This post is getting long - so I'll end it here and wait for some opinions/constructive criticisms. If the reasonable answer is seriously "do not attempt," I want to know it! If it's feasible - I want to make sure I'm prepared, at the very least, to tackle some green trails. I'm not made of money but I have saved a few pennies I could throw at this - so I'm hoping to get your input on what type of gear/modifications/etc. are critical out there. Essentially, the "wheeling starter kit," from those of you who have been there.

Most of you know the truck at this point - but here's the junk in question:

 

[g-man]

I guess you should say whether you plan to attend CMCC or just enter the park. Probably some different requirements. Posted below are the website for CMCC event and for Rausch Creek.

first, I'm not in the PA keystone cruisers so hope no one takes offense to me posting here. But I did attend CMCC at Rausch Creek last year. I was a total newbie to the offroad park scene. It was great fun although a bit nerve racking at times (esp. the first day) You'll need to join TLCA first and get a membership # if you plan on going to CMCC.(coal miners cruiser classic) held by gotham city cruiser and is a sanctioned TLCA event. If you are just going for a weekend excursion you'll need at least one other truck with you but I imagine 4 or 5 would be better. You can check out the park info here: Park Information | Rausch Creek Off-Road Park to see what you need to get into the park.

Also for CMCC Go to CMCC website: Coal Mine Cruiser Classic - Gotham City Land Cruisers and look at the check list for what you need to get have for that event They have a list of things you need to have as a minimum.. You can do the green trails in stock formation but a little lift certainly doesn't hurt. Remember everyone else on the trail in your group will also have all the recovery equipment too. So they will have more than enough to help you out. I was surprised at how tough some parts of the "green" trails are but you can get through unscathed with spotters in places and common sense. But hey if it wasn't a little challenging it wouldn't be fun. Try to arrange to meet up with other Land Cruiser on the ride there so if you break down you may have some assistance.

Of your concern list, one thing I think you really need is a radio. Many are buying the cheap chinese hand help boefung..something they work good and you can listen in on the channel. (they'll assign a frequency to your group) The only caveate is the ham licensing requirement. talking on it w/out a license is a no no and technically you could get busted. what I witnessed most didn't seem to care, I didn't really hear a lot of chit chat and what i did hear no-one or at least very few used there call sign. (which they are supposed to).

The most critical thing for me was great leadership. I was lucky enough to have Gary Shumaker (shmukster) lead the way. He was calm, professional an always helpful. He knew the trails, where to go and what sections he needed to jump out of his truck and hand guide us through the difficult sections. I did see a few exhaust pipes get smashed on the rear bumpers but that was it for the carnage. I could easily see someone rubbing a tree or breaking a side mirror where the trails lean an the trees get tight. You can see scars on the trees in these spots.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

Thanks @g-man,

I didn't have a specific event in mind - more just tagging along on the monthly wheeling trips though CMCC looks like a good time, for sure. My question is just more, in general - what I'm missing that would be absolutely critical.

I would expect most folks have recovery gear but that doesn't necessarily mean they want to add wear and tear to them to pull me out. Plus, it would be valuable to know what I should have, for recoveries, in general - let's say in the off chance I'm up there without a bunch of cruiser-heads.

 

[76FJ40]

A good introduction to wheeling would be to attend the Relic Run next month sponsored by Old North State Cruisers. The location is Uwharrie, NC. Several members from Keystone Cruisers and CLCC are attending so you should be able to catch a ride.

As far as what you're missing that's critical, that would be recovery points front and rear.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

As far as what you're missing that's critical, that would be recovery points front and rear.

Any advice there? Technically, the holes in the bracing on my rear bumper are supposed to serve as recovery points - but that's putting quite a lot of faith in the bolts holding that bumper to the cross member. In front - I'm guessing the stock hooks probably don't count - but beyond a completely different bumper (not out of the question) are there alternatives?

 

[76FJ40]

The stock hooks on the front frame rails work ok. I can't comment on your rear bumper without seeing it. There should be holes on the rear of your frame rails that will accommodate hooks.

You'll also need a radio. Keystone and CLCC use primarily GMRS radios with a few lower life forms still using CBs. CLCC has loaner radios and Keystone may also have some available.

 

[g-man]

You'll need at least one other truck with you in order to enter the park. The more the merrier. Everyone had some recovery gear. Make sure when you buy recovery gear that you understand the load ratings. Many advertise the (MBS) minimum breaking strength. This IS the point at which the gear can fail and not the (SWL) safe working load or the WWL working load limit...which is really what you want to go by. I was really unhappy when I bought this Warn winch kit off Amazon:
Amazon.com: WARN 88900 Medium Duty Winching Accessory Kit: Automotive

I bought it based on the 14000 lb rated capacity they advertised. But when I got the items... the SWL on the straps is 4800lbs. Granted there is built in 3 to 1 error here but would have been nice to know since my truck loaded is probably closer to 6500lbs. I ended up going into a local Tractor Supply store and found straps over 10,000 SWL for much less money. The Warn bag is very nice though.

I bought Trail Tailor tow points and mounted them up front.
I only had the stock tow hook on the rear bumper, but did get a hitch mounted D ring in case I needed it. You'll need a first aid kit. My friend failed to bring this, so we ended up buying a cheap one at the local truck stop. Nothing fancy just some band aids and alcohol wipes, tape and gauze.

 

[dci blair]

Greens at rausch are easy-peasy. Some can be more challenging than others, but for the most part nothing crazy and a great introduction. Perhaps seeing if some other new members would like to join a green only run would be a good way to get some of the tires dirty for the new guys. Myself and Garry have taken a group out on a green only run, and eventually hit a blue or two once everyone’s confidence is up. I’d be down to lead a group of greens again. Sometimes it’s nice to hit some trails without your b-hole puckered most of the day.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

The stock hooks on the front frame rails work ok. I can't comment on your rear bumper without seeing it. There should be holes on the rear of your frame rails that will accommodate hooks.

Here is the bumper - though I hesitate to use it. I know at least one of the bolts holding it on is stripped - which makes me question the rest of the old welded nuts. Frame holes seem like a good alternative.

You'll also need a radio. Keystone and CLCC use primarily GMRS radios with a few lower life forms still using CBs. CLCC has loaner radios and Keystone may also have some available.

I noticed that radios are often required - Looks like it's fairly straightforward to get a GMRS license. I'm sure discussions of brands/antennas/etc. would be a discussion for a whole separate thread.

You'll need at least one other truck with you in order to enter the park. The more the merrier. Everyone had some recovery gear.

Yeah I could see "borrowing" recovery gear at a big cruiser meeting if it was needed. However, I'd rather be prepared as opposed to relying on the kindness of others! I know nobody here would leave me hanging but it can't hurt to be self-sufficient. Further, I've got a buddy with a TJ I may occasionally wheel with - but he's as green as I am so between the two of us, it would be good to be equipped to recover if we're out as a pair.

I only had the stock tow hook on the rear bumper, but did get a hitch mounted D ring in case I needed it.

Yeah - trying to avoid pulling by the bumper - I know I have at least one stripped bolt holding it to the rear cross member so if there are frame recovery points - those are more ideal until I get some new welded nuts on the bumper mounts.

You'll need a first aid kit.

Check

Greens at rausch are easy-peasy. Some can be more challenging than others, but for the most part nothing crazy and a great introduction. Perhaps seeing if some other new members would like to join a green only run would be a good way to get some of the tires dirty for the new guys. Myself and Garry have taken a group out on a green only run, and eventually hit a blue or two once everyone’s confidence is up. I’d be down to lead a group of greens again. Sometimes it’s nice to hit some trails without your b-hole puckered most of the day.

Driving a relatively untested FJ40 200 miles round trip and wheeling in the middle is a b-hole puckering event to me as it is - but I'd welcome a "green day" with some folks who know what they're doing when the time comes.

As for the green trails - Are they fire roads/passable in a stock rig or are lifts/lockers recommended?

 

[Crusha]

As for the green trails - Are they fire roads/passable in a stock rig or are lifts/lockers recommended?

Your truck, as it sits, will eat any green trail at Rausch, and have a few blue trails for desert.

You'll be shocked at what it can do.

Just you wait!

 

[shmukster]

Thanks @g-man,

I didn't have a specific event in mind - more just tagging along on the monthly wheeling trips though CMCC looks like a good time, for sure. My question is just more, in general - what I'm missing that would be absolutely critical.

I would expect most folks have recovery gear but that doesn't necessarily mean they want to add wear and tear to them to pull me out. Plus, it would be valuable to know what I should have, for recoveries, in general - let's say in the off chance I'm up there without a bunch of cruiser-heads.

Rick- showing up and riding along with some of the club guys some Saturday would be a great way for you to see what we do. If you bring your truck and want to run green trails someone will run them with you- I've led lots of trail rides for beginners over the years and enjoy doing it quite a bit. And when it comes to recovery gear- there are days when everybody's gear is out and being used and returning everything to the rightful owner is never a problem. Don't ever worry about anyone not wanting to sue their recovery gear most guys enjoy having an opportunity to do so. The last several times we've wheeled we've put a lot of winches through a lot of exercise!!!! After tomorrow the next scheduled club wheeling day is April 13. And I would say if a few newcomers would want to get together on a day other than the regular club dates that I'd be willing to show up and guide. Yeah Crusha is right you'll be shocked at what your 40 can do.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

Rick- showing up and riding along with some of the club guys some Saturday would be a great way for you to see what we do. If you bring your truck and want to run green trails someone will run them with you- I've led lots of trail rides for beginners over the years and enjoy doing it quite a bit. And when it comes to recovery gear- there are days when everybody's gear is out and being used and returning everything to the rightful owner is never a problem. Don't ever worry about anyone not wanting to sue their recovery gear most guys enjoy having an opportunity to do so. The last several times we've wheeled we've put a lot of winches through a lot of exercise!!!! After tomorrow the next scheduled club wheeling day is April 13. And I would say if a few newcomers would want to get together on a day other than the regular club dates that I'd be willing to show up and guide. Yeah Crusha is right you'll be shocked at what your 40 can do.

Thanks Gary - I’ll definitely be doing a ride along or two to get a feel for how it’s done before I commit my 40 to it. April 13 is probably a no go - I’m planning to be at the Eastwood event on the 6th and two weekends out in a row is a tough negotiation right now (new baby). Hopefully May/June for sure. If all goes well, I’ll hopefully have the truck up there shortly after.

 

[jamarquardt22]

Oh, where to begin.

In my opinion your 40 is easily capable of Blue trails in its current form. I didnt see a tire size though. I'm assuming at least 31's
The biggest limitation I can see is you. Thats not a insult either. We were all virgins once. Most people have no idea what it is we do. They think we just go and drive on fire roads. Or the unpaved roads people take to get to hunting cabins. The truth is that this is low speed technical presision driving. Some times 1" makes the difference. As we take our senic drive through the woods we are ascessing and adjusting the ever changing situation. Do I climb that rock, do I go around it, do i try and stradle it. You will be picking the line to try and negotiate the obsticle in front of you. Hopefully you suciede, somtimes you wont. Stay calm at all times. Panic will help no one. Wear you seat belt at all times. You may find youself upside down unexpectedly. I did as a passanger once. And if you do this long enough everyone will take the ride of shame. On the back of a flat bed or a trailer of some type. Not a fun bill to pay but like they say you have to pay to play. Ive done it 3 times. I think @Pacer did it 3 times in a year! AAA is my plan B for getting home. Their Plus membership provides 3 100 mile tows per year, over that and you start to pay. They offer a premeire membership that has the 3 100 mile tows and 1 200 mile tow. The 200 mile one you must wait 10 days to use after activating your membership.

Id use that bumper as a tow point. Looks stout to me.

Radios: Keystone is encouraging the use of ham and GMRS radios, some like my self still have a CB too but the little hand held Beofungs seem to be the way to go. We have a ongoing thread. "trail communications for the club" with a lot of info in it. Crusha also has some club radios we loan out at get togeathers, including the monthly trail rides. We dont require a radio but rules change depending on the event and club hosting it.

First aid kit: Get what you thing you need.

Fire extinguisher: It sucks watching your truck burn to the ground. I know people who have. They even had fire extinguishers.

Recovery gear: most basic some shackles, a tow strap and high lift. We mostly use who's stuff is easiest to get to.

Tools you need: carry what you need to fix things you are willing and able to work on in the woods or park. You wont want to rebuild a t case in the park. Same goes for parts. What are you willing and able to fix in the park?

Im sure there is more but its dinner time.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

Your truck, as it sits, will eat any green trail at Rausch, and have a few blue trails for desert.

You'll be shocked at what it can do.

Just you wait!

I sure hope so!

In my opinion your 40 is easily capable of Blue trails in its current form. I didnt see a tire size though. I'm assuming at least 31's
The biggest limitation I can see is you. Thats not a insult either. We were all virgins once.

No offense taken - that is the exact reason I'm asking these questions. And the tires are 7.5R16 - somewhere around 32x8

Most people have no idea what it is we do. They think we just go and drive on fire roads. Or the unpaved roads people take to get to hunting cabins. The truth is that this is low speed technical presision driving. Some times 1" makes the difference. As we take our senic drive through the woods we are ascessing and adjusting the ever changing situation. Do I climb that rock, do I go around it, do i try and stradle it. You will be picking the line to try and negotiate the obsticle in front of you. Hopefully you suciede, somtimes you wont. Stay calm at all times. Panic will help no one. Wear you seat belt at all times. You may find youself upside down unexpectedly. I did as a passanger once.

I've been on this forum enough to know that fire-roads/camping are not crawling - at least conceptually - just never actually done the "real thing."

Regarding seat belts and rollovers - I recently upgraded to shoulder harnesses. I'm assuming the likelihood of rolling is fairly low on green trails but this brings up a valid question - I know the stock rollbar is essentially useless in any "real" rollover. At what level do cross-harnesses and full cages come into play?

And if you do this long enough everyone will take the ride of shame. On the back of a flat bed or a trailer of some type. Not a fun bill to pay but like they say you have to pay to play. Ive done it 3 times. I think @Pacer did it 3 times in a year! AAA is my plan B for getting home. Their Plus membership provides 3 100 mile tows per year, over that and you start to pay. They offer a premeire membership that has the 3 100 mile tows and 1 200 mile tow. The 200 mile one you must wait 10 days to use after activating your membership.

I was shopping AAA today, as a matter of fact...seems like a no brainer if I don't have a tow rig to get me home...

Id use that bumper as a tow point. Looks stout to me.

It is - and I thought about that but wasn't sure you could literally wrap a strap around a bumper and pull...On the rear bumper there's at least one (maybe 2) stripped bolt(s) anchoring it to the crossmember - so my concern isn't the bumper failing but the nuts.

Fire extinguisher: It sucks watching your truck burn to the ground. I know people who have. They even had fire extinguishers.

This is a major concern, especially with a carburetor and an open element filter. I have a little 2lb Fire extinguisher that lives in the truck but from my reading it sounds like a 2lbr is about as usefull as trying to piss on the fire to put it out. Are most folks carying 5lb extinguishers?

Recovery gear: most basic some shackles, a tow strap and high lift. We mostly use who's stuff is easiest to get to.

Clearly I need to do some reading on vehicle recovery...

Tools you need: carry what you need to fix things you are willing and able to work on in the woods or park. You wont want to rebuild a t case in the park. Same goes for parts. What are you willing and able to fix in the park?

Probably another topic for another thread - and I know I've seen these lists kicking around over on the 40-forum - but do folks really roll in with like...spare alternators and brake master cylinders kicking around or is the focus usually more on extra birfields?

 

[BlueMarblePA]

I am in the same boat as you @RWBeringer4x4. I bought a 1974 FJ40 in September 2018, and I live 60 miles from rausch. I rented a uhaul auto transport and bought some straps as the 33" tires were too large for the regulation uhaul. I towed the fj40 to Rausch and went on greens with some friends and a guide.

No problem for the fj40.

I carry a tow strap and basic tools but have not used them yet, but I also have not left easy green and light blue trails yet.

 

[TrapperHunt]

My stock 40 had no issues on the blues at Rausch last year at CMCC. With power steering, disc brakes and a locker you’re better set up then me.

I’d enjoy a green/blue run this spring for all of us newbs, especially if Gary’s leading I’m sure we’ll have fun.

 

[jtaco1]

Pack some recovery and safety gear as others have mentioned and join a run. You can ride along many times, but until you get behind the wheel, you will realize that your FJ40 is capable of more than you think, you are it’s limitation in the beginning.

You have a great club to back you up and they won’t leave you hanging. Come up join a in and have some fun. I would be more than happy to ride shotgun and help out wherever and whenever. Could be as simple as suggesting a line to stacking a few rocks to get you over an obsticle. Your FJ40 will handle greens at Rausch with no problem, as well as many blues.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

When you guys talk recovery gear/straps - are we generally referring to the flat/webbing tow straps or the elastic snatch straps?

 

[jamarquardt22]

Yes. Both. Either.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

Yes. Both. Either.

When it comes to kinetic ropes - do folks generally follow the “2-3x vehicle weight” guideline to determine rope size? Or is bigger generally better? ie: is something with a 15,000lb -20,00lb rating what everyone’s running or are folks running the 7/8-1” or thicker ropes with 30k+ ratings?

Seems like the goal here is to size it so the rope is strong enough to pull your truck but breaks before your shackles do and become missiles.

I’ve seen a lot of different schools of thought here - from folks saying “go bigger” because once the rope is muddy the stretch/strength reduces, and others saying go smaller to make sure the rope is what breaks.

Seems like at 19,000lbs a 3/4 rope is more than enough based on the “3x vehicle weight” rule of thumb - but curious what you guys have found from real world experience.