LX_pedition’s build thread (1 Viewer)

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A couple of weeks back I was hit on my right fender by someone speeding as I was pulling out of a parking spot. Timing couldn’t be worse with this virus and shops being closed. Luckily, a buddy of mine is still working and his body shop is open. I figured it would be a good opportunity to upgrade. So, I went and ordered an ARB bumper. Also, purchased a few others goodies that will be part my my next set of upgrades. I feel like I’m going down a rabbit hole (or money pit) of upgrades and repairs. Please, stop me.
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Hi everyone,
Back again with another addition to the lx. Today I added Roadsafe tow points and Gear America Brand D shackles. I’m loving the look and the products are solid and top notch! They are great additions to my Arb bumper which do not come with tow points.

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Tuffy flip up license plate holder was installed today. Also decided to remove the vibration dampener.
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The Owl Expedition Media mount and BT45 TOY install was scary at first, but I got through it! So l, followed the instructions for the Media Mount install provided by @owl_expedition. I ran into a few noobie issues removing the trim and screws. The right center console vent cracked more than it already was and I stripped a few of the soft black screws on the radio frame mount. Eventually, I was able to remove the radio to open it up. I removed the tape deck, secured the owl expedition media mount and installed the BT45 in the tape deck. This was by no means a perfect fit. I added double sided sticky tape to avoid any vibration sounds. I Drilled a super ugly hole to run the wire through the back of the radio. I stuck the mic and USB charger in the tape deck area. When I closed up the radio again it wouldn’t completely shut because of the thickness of the BT45. I closed it as much as I could and stuffed it in the center dash knowing it was still slightly opened. I tested the blue tooth out to see if it worked. The music is crisp and phone calls are clear. The mic didn’t seem to have trouble picking up my voice. However, I did notice that the music volume is a bit higher than the phone call volume. I closed up the center dash and screwed everything in place and voila. Media mount and BT45 were installed. Feel free to ask any questions as I could not find solutions online for the small problems I ran into.
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The Owl Expedition Media mount and BT45 TOY install was scary at first, but I got through it! So l, followed the instructions for the Media Mount install provided by @owl_expedition. I ran into a few noobie issues removing the trim and screws. The right center console vent cracked more than it already was and I stripped a few of the soft black screws on the radio frame mount. Eventually, I was able to remove the radio to open it up. I removed the tape deck, secured the owl expedition media mount and installed the BT45 in the tape deck. This was by no means a perfect fit. I added double sided sticky tape to avoid any vibration sounds. I Drilled a super ugly hole to run the wire through the back of the radio. I stuck the mic and USB charger in the tape deck area. When I closed up the radio again it wouldn’t completely shut because of the thickness of the BT45. I closed it as much as I could and stuffed it in the center dash knowing it was still slightly opened. I tested the blue tooth out to see if it worked. The music is crisp and phone calls are clear. The mic didn’t seem to have trouble picking up my voice. However, I did notice that the music volume is a bit higher than the phone call volume. I closed up the center dash and screwed everything in place and voila. Media mount and BT45 were installed. Feel free to ask any questions as I could not find solutions online for the small problems I ran into. View attachment 2407932View attachment 2407931View attachment 2407930View attachment 2407929
Would you think there would be a difference having the mic outside the tape player ?
 
Would you think there would be a difference having the mic outside the tape player ?
I saw someone do this and asked if about them clarity. After confirming he had no issues I tried the same and I have to say the clarity is superb. Big improvement

Also, I received the ram mount in the mail today. Loving it so far!
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The Owl Expedition Media mount and BT45 TOY install was scary at first, but I got through it! So l, followed the instructions for the Media Mount install provided by @owl_expedition. I ran into a few noobie issues removing the trim and screws. The right center console vent cracked more than it already was and I stripped a few of the soft black screws on the radio frame mount. Eventually, I was able to remove the radio to open it up. I removed the tape deck, secured the owl expedition media mount and installed the BT45 in the tape deck. This was by no means a perfect fit. I added double sided sticky tape to avoid any vibration sounds. I Drilled a super ugly hole to run the wire through the back of the radio. I stuck the mic and USB charger in the tape deck area. When I closed up the radio again it wouldn’t completely shut because of the thickness of the BT45. I closed it as much as I could and stuffed it in the center dash knowing it was still slightly opened. I tested the blue tooth out to see if it worked. The music is crisp and phone calls are clear. The mic didn’t seem to have trouble picking up my voice. However, I did notice that the music volume is a bit higher than the phone call volume. I closed up the center dash and screwed everything in place and voila. Media mount and BT45 were installed. Feel free to ask any questions as I could not find solutions online for the small problems I ran into. View attachment 2407932View attachment 2407931View attachment 2407930
That's a great idea on location. I wonder if the Vais unit will fit there?
 
Replaced the Rear drive shaft today after I busted it over the weekend. I paid the mechanic who did it in 15 minutes $50. Wish I had a lift! Had trouble getting leverage on the nut to break it loose.
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Today I was able to focus on a particular part of the frame that was driving me nuts. Knowing this rotting part of the frame was there I couldn’t rest until i found someone to fix it (since I know nothing about welding myself). Luckily, I found someone within a reasonable driving distance. I know it may not seem like much. But, it puts my mind at ease.

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So, I decided to keep my stock rims for now even though they are not in great condition. Seems they were poorly painted by the dealer and not exactly in top condition. However, I like the style and could opt to powder coat them in the future.
For now I’ve decided to add 275/70/18 BFG Ko2 A/T tires. They look pretty sweet if I must say.

Here they are on the truck.

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Look great. Before the new bumper did a full size 275/70/18 KO2 fit underneath?
 
Look great. Before the new bumper did a full size 275/70/18 KO2 fit underneath?

yes it did fit find. Actually experienced some rub once the bumper was added. Trail tailor body lift helped that.
 
Finally got around to some preventative rust treatment. I found a great shop called Garden State Undercoating in Saddlebrook New Jersey. They grinded, degreased, primed, painted and fluid filmed the whole under side. The pictures speak for themselves. Here’s some before and afters.

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Like where the build is going! That underbody treatment looks awesome. I live in Virginia and want to do something simular, how much did they charge you?
 
Finally got around to some preventative rust treatment. I found a great shop called Garden State Undercoating in Saddlebrook New Jersey. They grinded, degreased, primed, painted and fluid filmed the whole under side. The pictures speak for themselves. Here’s some before and afters.

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Wow! I would love to know what that set you back if you don’t mind. Looks awesome!
 

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