Help with 3-link on '99 4-Runner (9 Viewers)

[JLHEEPETR]

I was able to get some testing done on the front end tonight. Despite my reservations it looks as though this thing is going to flex nicey.

I ran both sides up to full stuff and cycled the steering both ways without finding any binding or contact issues. Almost ready to start burning it all in!

 

[Roams001]

Awesome job! Any thoughts on winches to suck down the front or back when needed?

 

[JLHEEPETR]

Thanks Tim! I'm seriously considering building a tab to suck the front end down. I'm going to wait until the hydro assist is in and everything else is in place as to not have to do it twice though. I'd really like to go to a synthetic rope as well. All in good time I guess. I've been checking on 120 for more posts of your rig. Can't wait to see it in person!

 

[JLHEEPETR]

Here's the front axle with brackets burned in and paint. I Hoping to get it re-installed tonight or tomorrow.

 

[dragr1]

Wow, this is looking really good! Your work is immaculate!

 

[JLHEEPETR]

Thanks dragr1! Here's a picture of the axle back in place. Now if I could just afford those coilovers.

 

[JLHEEPETR]

I need some opinions from you guys. I'm trying to get all the fuel system stuff worked out and am wondering which way to go. I've found a RCI fuel cell to use in the back and am wondering if I should just run the inline pump or if I should run a small pump to a fuel sump before the main pump to eliminate any fuel starving issues? What have others done? Do you guys think the cheaper summit pumps are as reliable as the name brands?

 

[dragr1]

I need some opinions from you guys. I'm trying to get all the fuel system stuff worked out and am wondering which way to to. I've found a RCI fuel cell to use in the back and am wondering if I should just run the inline pump or if I should run a small pump to a fuel sump before the main pump to eliminate any fuel starving issues? What have others done? Do you guys think the cheaper summit pumps are as reliable as the name brands?

Don't have an answer for your question, but I might consider running something that can be commonly found at any parts store just in case it should die on you. What that might be I dunno, just a thought I had.

 

[JLHEEPETR]

Thanks for letting me know someone is out there dragr1! Here's what I had in mind after talking to the guys at summit...I'm already pretty much set on running the RCI fuel cell because I found one with all the needed hookups that will fit between the frame rail where the factory spare used to sit. From there I am thinking of running a small "wuss" pump (like 42 gph @ 4psi) to a fuel sump where the regulator return line will also run (both lines in from the sides). From the top of the sump I'll run a return line to the tank and from the bottum of the sump I'll run the fuel line to the Summit or Mallory or whatever pump and on to the regulator. This should prevent any fuel starvation issues at any angle. Any other thoughts on this???

 

[dragr1]

If you were near me I'd be over there with the Auburn crew helping out.

 

[JLHEEPETR]

I was able to get the steering figured out this weekend. The shaft is 3/4" 4140 and the box/pin style joint is from LoveJoy. Its nice to finally have the tires turning from the steering wheel.

 

[JLHEEPETR]

I'm trying to get the hydro assist stuff figured out and get the rest of the parts ordered but I'm confused about the rams' stroke length. I put the wheels at full turn and marked the tie rod using a square from the axle. Then turned the wheels all the way the other way and made another mark. Between the two marks is 5.25". From talking to PSC they tell me I should be able to use a 6" ram with the mini truck knuckles. The steering stops are only out about 3/16". Am I measuring wrong?

 

[JLHEEPETR]

Almost 100 views since my last post/question and no one can help. Starting to wonder why even post it up?

 

[dragr1]

Almost 100 views since my last post/question and no one can help. Starting to wonder why even post it up?

Well, you know I like it, but your fab skills are way beyond mine, so all I can offer is that it looks really really good.

My best suggestion would be to put the thread on pirate-I think you'll get a lot more responses.

 

[mrqtipp]

I think your math is good

I run a 6" ram on my diamonds and I have plenty of ram

The 6" ram has several inches of adjustment past the ram length (heim threads)

Just my 2 cents

 

[JLHEEPETR]

Thanks to you both for the responces. Qtipp could you elaborate a little. I have no experience with hydro assist. Even with the heim adjustment the stroke will always be 6" correct? How far in/out are your steering stops? Are you running mini truck knuckles? Are your rock rings smashed in or have you clearanced them? When you say you have plenty of ram does that mean too much? I'm concerned that having 6" of stroke may lead to broken TREs, steering arms, or worse. I know I can get a ram any lenght I want but I'm trying to get it right the first time. Thanks again guys.

 

[mrqtipp]

Yes the stroke will always be approx 6"

I had some difficulties with location but I think your application is wide open.

My steering stops are out aprox aprox .250 give or take

I am running mini truck knuckles but I modified them to a 6 shooter

Rock rings clear

The ram has just enough in both directions and moves beyond the bump stops but of course the bump stops do there job

I think you are running the FJ80 or 1 ton stuff? Regardless I wouldnt worry about breaking a TRE.

Here is a link to my set up. Not the best location but it works


IH8MUD.com - View Single Post - rocks and rolls

Thanks to you both for the responces. Qtipp could you elaborate a little. I have no experience with hydro assist. Even with the heim adjustment the stroke will always be 6" correct? How far in/out are your steering stops? Are you running mini truck knuckles? Are your rock rings smashed in or have you clearanced them? When you say you have plenty of ram does that mean too much? I'm concerned that having 6" of stroke may lead to broken TREs, steering arms, or worse. I know I can get a ram any lenght I want but I'm trying to get it right the first time. Thanks again guys.

 

[JLHEEPETR]

Thanks for the advice Qtipp. Have you moved your steering stops since the picture on your link (it looks as though the stops are all the way out)? When you say the ram moves beyond the stops...Are your stops what's limiting the stroke of the ram? I was under the impression the ram would have enough force to break them. Sorry about the 20 question thing. Thanks again.

 

[JLHEEPETR]

I started working on the front bump stops tonight. I made my own out of some SBR rubber left over from an expansion joint I made for a bridge. If it proves to be too hard I'll be able to swap in some urethane ones from Energy. I wish I could afford air bumps but at this point they are out of the question. These will weld to the frame and the plates will weld on to the lower links close to the axle.

 

[mrqtipp]

I have moved the steering stops around alot in the past weeks.

I was getting more steering to one direction then the other and had to adjust the tierod amongst other things

Trying to idal everything in

The ram has the potential to push past the limits of your steering box and stops (depending on your set up). In my case my steering stops are what stops my steering and you can feel it. I dont try to go past that point. On my diamonds they welded a piece of solid angled steel to the tube as a steering stop and there is no way the ram will break them. I think a ram could destroy OEM stops but not yours

my 2 cents

by the way your rig is coming along nicely

Great documentation.

.

Thanks for the advice Qtipp. Have you moved your steering stops since the picture on your link (it looks as though the stops are all the way out)? When you say the ram moves beyond the stops...Are your stops what's limiting the stroke of the ram? I was under the impression the ram would have enough force to break them. Sorry about the 20 question thing. Thanks again.