Any AZ Spring FSJ Runs? (Smiley Rock Trail, AZ)

[vintagetrks]

Any FSJ trail runs going on this spring in AZ?

I've been talking with Jaber and we are going to go scouting an old railway trail to Jerome (a little more difficult than last years run) maybe in the very near future. Wanted to see if there was any intrest in making this run and also see if anyone else was planning any other runs in the state.

[will e]

None planned but I would like to go.

With the recent rains we may have a shot at some spectacular wild flowers this year. If so, my spring plans will focus on where those can be found.

[vintagetrks]

None planned but I would like to go.

With the recent rains we may have a shot at some spectacular wild flowers this year. If so, my spring plans will focus on where those can be found.

I don't remember if you came up for last years run to Jerome, but Jaber and I have been talking about scouting out the old railroad trail to Jerome which is more difficult but should be alot more fun and should produce lots of beautiful scenery. The trail is supposed to be rated at a two and Jaber has been on part of it we just need to run it all the way through to make sure we know what we're getting into.

[will e]

I didn't go last year.

That area should get its share of wild flowers (if we have a good year).

I would be good with a trip like that.

[vintagetrks]

I didn't go last year.

That area should get its share of wild flowers (if we have a good year).

I would be good with a trip like that.

I need to get with Jaber probably this week and maybe get a time to go out there and scout it out and maybe come up with a date for a trail ride. I was thinking late April early May.

[will e]

April might be too late for flowers. Let me know when you go scouting, I might tag along.

[ArmAir1]

Let me know if any of you AZ guys get down to the Bullhead/Laughlin area. I'm from Vegas, but spend alot of time in the BH area. Some guy from my Vegas club (Vegas Valley 4 Wheelers) (VV4W.org) did the Sleeping Princess trail recently....looks pretty cool. Wish I could have made it. Let me know!

[vintagetrks]

April might be too late for flowers. Let me know when you go scouting, I might tag along.

I will. As soon as we get some days with some temps in the high 50's low sixties I want to start scouting.

[Josh D]

I'm hoping to have 'Ol Yeller back on the road and trail worthy around April. Otherwise It'll be another run in the little Jeep.

[will e]

PM me or send an email to AZFSJC list if you want to get more folks involved.

[Tad]

I'll probably do 1 more local area run weekend after next.
The wag will go down for surgry around mid Feb, I expect it to be down for about a month.

[vintagetrks]

Right now I'm waiting on a USGS topo map of the area. I also have to put my new HEI in my waggy cause my Cherokee is'nt up and running yet :banghead: . But I'm hoping to talk Jaber into going scouting the trail with me as soon as the map gets here.

[Tad]

Might be something in here you can find/use Randy.
http://libremap.org/data/

[akelts]

Any FSJ trail runs going on this spring in AZ?

I've been talking with Jaber and we are going to go scouting an old railway trail to Jerome (a little more difficult than last years run) maybe in the very near future. Wanted to see if there was any intrest in making this run and also see if anyone else was planning any other runs in the state.

Sounds like a good time. I will try to make it. Not sure if the gladiator will be back in one piece by then but I could take my "little jeep" (2000 Cherokee) if no one minds.

[vintagetrks]

Might be something in here you can find/use Randy.
http://libremap.org/data/

Thanks Tad. I'll give it a try and see if I can get the old railroad trail.

[jaber]

Last year we did it the weekend after moms day.
Wille- It dont get near as hot here so the flowers are still out in the mountains where we are talking...:thumbsup: Plus, the trail takes us into the forest. AWESOME trails wandering through a canopy of trees. I think the trail is rated more difficult then a 2, but I'm not good at guaging. I believe it takes us by a swimming hole also. With all the rains and snow in the hills, the trail followed parts of a major wash and should be interesting to check out.

Mothers day is May 9th this year. We could start planning for the 15-16th and start the planning here. It will be nicer up here at that time of the year.

Thoughts, comments....:D

[jaber]

Here is the trail I want to explore....

http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=XFT002-025

[Josh D]

I've been wanting to do smiley rock. Might as well save it for the j-truck.:drivin:

[Tad]

...Mothers day is May 9th this year. We could start planning for the 15-16th and start the planning here. It will be nicer up here at that time of the year.

Thoughts, comments....:D
I'd be up for something in mid May.
Camping?

[vintagetrks]

Sounds like a good time. I will try to make it. Not sure if the gladiator will be back in one piece by then but I could take my "little jeep" (2000 Cherokee) if no one minds.

You would most definitely be welcome. :thumbsup:

[jaber]

I'd be up for something in mid May.
Camping?

Lots of great places for that up here. From my yard to the National Forest.

[Tad]

Lots of great places for that up here. From my yard to the National Forest.
I meant does anyone want to camp overnight ;)
Sort of make an event out of it.

[Lambrewski]

I'd be up for taking the '78 out on a trail for the first time! :fsj:

[will e]

Camping sounds good to me. I like to unwind some more after a day of wheel'n

[vintagetrks]

I meant does anyone want to camp overnight ;)
Sort of make an event out of it.

If they had a camp ground here we could turn it into a mini Ouray type thing. :D

[jaber]

I believe there is a camp ground at the top of the hill. There is a trail on the opposite side of HWY89a that supposedly goes to either Cherry or down the hill into the Verde Valley.

[vintagetrks]

I believe there is a camp ground at the top of the hill. There is a trail on the opposite side of HWY89a that supposedly goes to either Cherry or down the hill into the Verde Valley.

Oh the one on top of Mingus? That could work out reall good thats a nice spot. We just need to come up with some T Shirts and make it the first annual Smiley Rock run.LOL I would be cool though to get an annual trail run going up here with the FSJ's.

[jaber]

If we can get this years together, it'll be the 2nd annual Bradshaw run....:thumbsup:

[vintagetrks]

If we can get this years together, it'll be the 2nd annual Bradshaw run....:thumbsup:

We just need a T shirt and it will be official LOL :D

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Northern Arizona boy here...

Make sure I'm on the notification list if you send out emails or put something together.

BTW, my older brother owns a custom T-shirt shop on Mill ave in Tempe...Making shirts for a reasonable price (around $20 a piece or so give or take) would be possible for any 'event' that people would want T-Shirts for.

Nathan.

[vintagetrks]

Northern Arizona boy here...

Make sure I'm on the notification list if you send out emails or put something together.

BTW, my older brother owns a custom T-shirt shop on Mill ave in Tempe...Making shirts for a reasonable price (around $20 a piece or so give or take) would be possible for any 'event' that people would want T-Shirts for.

Nathan.

Your in Prescott? Jaber and I are both here in Chino. So your not far from us. Will keep ya posted and keep checking the Events thread. We will probably get a list together on here of folks that will be attending and what trail were gonna run. But first we have to go scout it and make a trial run to see how difficult the trail is.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Your in Prescott? Jaber and I are both here in Chino. So your not far from us. Will keep ya posted and keep checking the Events thread. We will probably get a list together on here of folks that will be attending and what trail were gonna run. But first we have to go scout it and make a trial run to see how difficult the trail is.

My jeep is not currently in condition to make any trail runs, but soon hopefully...I have a few more parts to collect before I hammer the suspension.....
I have to slap some D44's under my 69 (have a set from a 77 waggy with 3.90's ready to build).

Mini Spooling front and rear, clean, paint, new seals, new ball joints, high steer with 35's SPOA on a rusty's 4in lift.

Then its install a radiator, fix a couple small leaks and Boom...trail ready.

I should have all my parts by next weekend (not this, but the next) but will have already started on the axles as I'll have my minispools here friday.

But anyways, I hope to make any local trail events, and I'll often be down for weekend trail runs with just a couple guys.

Take it easy.
Nathan.

[Gas Pumper]

Keep me in the loop, also. Old Cherry Rd Comes in at 169 and out at 169, or takes you out between camp verde and cottonwood. Old Cherry Rd (About 3 miles) is the only "technical" part of that road. Smiley Rock I did in my baby jeep (07 JK, 3" Lift & 33's), and I had a blast. However, a stocker FSJ might have a hard time getting hung-up or scraping trees in some of the parts in there. I would do it in my waggy in a heartbeat if it was lifted and had traction aids (minimum of sticky tires).

Let me know!

[vintagetrks]

Keep me in the loop, also. Old Cherry Rd Comes in at 169 and out at 169, or takes you out between camp verde and cottonwood. Old Cherry Rd (About 3 miles) is the only "technical" part of that road. Smiley Rock I did in my baby jeep (07 JK, 3" Lift & 33's), and I had a blast. However, a stocker FSJ might have a hard time getting hung-up or scraping trees in some of the parts in there. I would do it in my waggy in a heartbeat if it was lifted and had traction aids (minimum of sticky tires).

Let me know!

Are you intrested in perhaps going scouting the trail with Jaber and maybe me and another guy. I have never been on the smiley rock trail. If I still have my waggy when we go scouting the trail you would be more than welcome. Jaber and I have been thinking about swapping my 3.5in lift off the waggy on to my Cherokee though.

[Gas Pumper]

Are you intrested in perhaps going scouting the trail with Jaber and maybe me and another guy. I have never been on the smiley rock trail. If I still have my waggy when we go scouting the trail you would be more than welcome. Jaber and I have been thinking about swapping my 3.5in lift off the waggy on to my Cherokee though.

"Going down" Smiley rock is definetly easier than "going up." A stocker FSJ would probably won't have much trouble going down, but going up would be a troublesome. I would say 31's at a minimum. If you don't have a traction aid, like limited slip/locker, or self recovery, like a winch or at minimum come-a-long, bring a buddy otherwise you'd be in trouble!

Broken Arrow in Sedona is another awesome trail.

Here's some videos of Smiley Rock. Jeep TJ is my father-in-laws which was a 4 popper, 5 speed with open diffs and 33's.

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/1755436/5836257

This video shows the most technical part of the trail. I think its the "bottom-most" rock garden.

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/1755403/5836113

...and, for kicks, one of my baby jeep going up slick rock near Page, AZ (silver one, when it still had the baby tires)...

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/1685192/5659466

[vintagetrks]

Very cool Gas Pumper that section of the trail is supposed to be like 3 miles long and then the rest is supposed to be basically dirt road. Is there a road or trail that diverts around the tough section for those who may not want to do the rough stuff?

[Gas Pumper]

It may be 3 miles long, but the "rock gardens" aka technical parts are broken up. There are no bypasses, just "easier lines" and I put that into qoutes because it's all kinda tough. Like I said, it's definatly easier starting at the top of Mingus going down rather than starting at Perkinsville road going up.

[vintagetrks]

It may be 3 miles long, but the "rock gardens" aka technical parts are broken up. There are no bypasses, just "easier lines" and I put that into qoutes because it's all kinda tough. Like I said, it's definatly easier starting at the top of Mingus going down rather than starting at Perkinsville road going up.

We may have to re think things then and consider starting at the top of Mingus. How do ya get on the trail from the top?

[jaber]

We may have to re think things then and consider starting at the top of Mingus. How do ya get on the trail from the top?

Whats the matter??? You guys scared????? :eek:

The top of mingus is where it starts. This is why I want to scout it. I have not been through this trail yet and would like to know what we are leading folks into. :eek:
I have all the recovery tools, that part dont worry me. :thumbsup:

[vintagetrks]

Whats the matter??? You guys scared????? :eek:

The top of mingus is where it starts. This is why I want to scout it. I have not been through this trail yet and would like to know what we are leading folks into. :eek:
I have all the recovery tools, that part dont worry me. :thumbsup:

Well as of today looks like I'm out. No running jeep just sitting in the driveway in my Cherk making jeep noises. :(

[CJ the noisemaker]

Can I be informed too? I will probably be moving back down to Phoenix at the end of May, or early June. And one thing I would like to do is meet up with some AZ FSJ'ers.

[jaber]

Well as of today looks like I'm out. No running jeep :(

Not to worry, I'll need a navigator. ;)

Can I be informed too? I will probably be moving back down to Phoenix at the end of May, or early June. And one thing I would like to do is meet up with some AZ FSJ'ers.

ANY and ALL jeepers are welcome!!!!:dancingbanana:
It would be great to meet another Jeeper. These baby Jeepers dont have the same "connection" that the Full Size crowd has. :cool:

[CJ the noisemaker]

Not to worry, I'll need a navigator. ;)
Navigator?
http://image.truckinweb.com/f/8118896/0604tr_02_z+1998_lincoln_navigator_custom+rear_ang le.jpg

[jaber]

Navigator?
http://image.truckinweb.com/f/8118896/0604tr_02_z+1998_lincoln_navigator_custom+rear_ang le.jpg

SURE!!! We'll take those UGLY steps off for ya....:D

[Josh D]

Bringing this back up! We're hitting the last stretch of our great weather and I finally have an FSJ ready for a trail! Late April, early May works best for me.

[vintagetrks]

Bringing this back up! We're hitting the last stretch of our great weather and I finally have an FSJ ready for a trail! Late April, early May works best for me.

You might want to PM Jaber and see if he's still planning on running the smiley rock trail. I'm probably out for the season my jeep is'nt in any shape to go anywhere other than on the back of a trailer. :( Might be able to get it in good enough shape to do some wheeling next spring though. :)

[Josh D]

Come on AZFSJ'ers! Don't make me go run with the little Jeeps!!:eek:

[Locked and Loaded]

There is someone planning a run on the Arizona Virtual Jeep Club forum For FSJ's.
http://www.virtualjeepclub.com/showthread.php?t=56143

[Tad]

Come on AZFSJ'ers! Don't make me go run with the little Jeeps!!:eek:
Yup, let's just go someplace and wheel, camp, whatever.
This weekend is out (Em's coming back from TDY) but I'm good for the most part through early May, in the middle of May I have to take a class 2 weekends in a row.

There is someone planning a run on the Arizona Virtual Jeep Club forum For FSJ's.
http://www.virtualjeepclub.com/showthread.php?t=56143
Easyover = Josh :thumbsup:

[Locked and Loaded]

Easyover = Josh :thumbsup:

OOPs. My Bad. It's a small world.

[CJ the noisemaker]

Come on AZFSJ'ers! Don't make me go run with the little Jeeps!!:eek:They'll just scurry away if they seen you pull up :D

[Josh D]

Yup, let's just go someplace and wheel, camp, whatever.
This weekend is out (Em's coming back from TDY) but I'm good for the most part through early May, in the middle of May I have to take a class 2 weekends in a row.


Easyover = Josh :thumbsup:

Yep, I have kids birthdays, my anniversery, and inlaws in town from middle to late May. Early would be best.

Tad, would you like to send a mailer out to the AZ list? Or you can send the list to me (I'm on it, but don't have it saved) and I can send out a trail idea/interest request.

[Tad]

I'm at work, don't have access to that email account.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I'm centrally located (like Jaber, VintgeTrks, etc) and i'm down...my jeep is on the road reliably (and insured as well)....decided to freshen up the little stuff and drive it while I'm building the axles for the swap.

I'm ready for a trail run, but I'm at stock height with open front and rear diffs.

I think Smiley Rock Trail might be the limit of my current capabilities, but I'm down to push the limits lol.

I'm not on any mailing lists or anything so someone hit me up with an email if you are going wheeling/camping/etc (i prefer to wheel and camp then wheel home personally)

Nathan

[vintagetrks]

I'd have to have one heck of a WOT in order to get mine on a trail this season. :(

[Gas Pumper]

I'd have to have one heck of a WOT in order to get mine on a trail this season. :(

LET'S DO IT!

I need some help with my carb/choke/timing as well to be "Trail Rated." :p

I'd say let's all figure out a time to do a "Vintagetrks Chero WOT." I need to meet all you guys, anyways.

-Rob

[jaber]

LET'S DO IT!

I need some help with my carb/choke/timing as well to be "Trail Rated." :p

I'd say let's all figure out a time to do a "Vintagetrks Chero WOT." I need to meet all you guys, anyways.

-Rob

I would be up for hosting such an event.
I have 95% of the tools here. I could get a trailer and haul his Cherk over here. As long as no one minds wrenchin in the dirt.


What do y'all think?
What weekend?

[Josh D]

I sent a trail invite out to the AZFSJ mailing list. I left the trail suggestion open, but also recommended the first suggestion of Mingus/Smiley Rock. I really like the idea of doing something in the Bradshaws.

I'll keep this thread updated on who's in and what the decided trail will be.

You central AZ guys get together and get your junk ready!! If we do something up there near Prescott, we'll need your help with putting together meeting locations and such!

[Heimeken]

You all figure out the date and I may be able to come out there...:)

[vintagetrks]

I would be up for hosting such an event.
I have 95% of the tools here. I could get a trailer and haul his Cherk over here. As long as no one minds wrenchin in the dirt.


What do y'all think?
What weekend?

I'd be down for that. Probably would'nt be able to do it till some time in May as I close on the new house next week and will be moving all my stuff to my new house for the next couple weeks. But I would definitely be into it after I get moved. I still gotta get a freeze plug for the old girl too. I have to go get a steering column from enigmaticengineer this week too.
We could have some fun though. Jeff is very knowledgable about all things Jeep and a very cool and helpful guy. Don't know that we could get my Cherk running in a day but I'd bet we could get a bunch of Jeeps in better shape.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Josh D. - To be technical, the Mingus Mountain Range isn't in the bradshaws as far as I'm aware, but I do know some Great trails in and around the Bradshaws...being an avid gold prospector, I'm very familiar with the Bradshaw Mtn. Range and a good portion of its roads/trails. But regardless, come on up and lets run some trails, do some camping/fishing/hunting, what ever... (mingus has a nice little 'lake' (((pond))) they stock with trout)

Gas Pumper - Since you are in PV, you are only around 15 mins from me. Let me know if you ever need a hand with anything on your Jeep. I have Many of the little tools that make working on these things much easier (ball joint remover/installer, 20 ton press, all the fidley little sockets our Dana's like, etc) I have a timing light handy so the timing shouldn't be a problem, and if your carb is giving you crap, i'm sure a couple taps with a hammer and a choke adjustment will get it ready for a day of trail running lol...unless your accelerator pump is bad, then its off to CSK or autozone for a replacement.

vintagetrks - I'm unaware of the problems your jeep is having, but you'd be amazed what 2-5 guys with wrenches can accomplish in a day (today, by myself, I tore down my stock dana 27's outers, replaced wheel seals, cleaned/packed wheel bearings, rebuilt Lockout Hubs, swapped 2 tires on rims (i do tires the old school way with Spoons and a rubber hammer lol) changed transfercase and front/rear diff oil, greased Everything with a Zirk fitting and made 2 trips into PV for randome little parts for my Jeep, and a Saturn SW2 I'm freshening up) I'm down to help you get your rig back to 'road worthy' status even if it needs an engine rebuild (little secret...ssshhhh, don't tell anyone...I have a sunnen 'boring bar'...sits on the cylinder deck, centers itself and I bore away...ie, i do my own engine machine work minus turning cranks/decking blocks...i even have a couple old valve grinders that could use a tune up themselves, but still work well ;) ) And if your jeep isn't workable into a trail run, you can ride with me...i have plenty of room lol.

Heimeken - If you can make it out from texas, i'm sure we'd all be glad to have you run some AZ trails with us.

Jaber - I have access to a nice 'rat tail' car trailer and a Big Block Chevy 4x4 to pull it with if there's any local trailering to do (gotta give me gas money, the 454 eats more fuel than I drink Vodka...and I drink a lot of vodka ;) lol )



No matter what, to quote Gas Pumper, 'LETS DO IT!' Lets set something up that works for everyone and polute the forest with our gas guzzling pigs ;)

Being unemployed, I probably have the most free schedule for what weekend we go trail running...you guys figure out what works best for the majority and I'm sure I can make it.

Nathan.

P.S. I have a couple friends, 1 with a Scout, 1 with a Wranger who might want to come...are we excluding the baby jeeps and wanna-be Jeeps? hehe or is all welcome on a FSJ trail run.

[jaber]

Josh D. - To be technical, the Mingus Mountain Range isn't in the bradshaws as far as I'm aware, but I do know some Great trails in and around the Bradshaws...being an avid gold prospector, I'm very familiar with the Bradshaw Mtn. Range and a good portion of its roads/trails. But regardless, come on up and lets run some trails, do some camping/fishing/hunting, what ever... (mingus has a nice little 'lake' (((pond))) they stock with trout)

Gas Pumper - Since you are in PV, you are only around 15 mins from me. Let me know if you ever need a hand with anything on your Jeep. I have Many of the little tools that make working on these things much easier (ball joint remover/installer, 20 ton press, all the fidley little sockets our Dana's like, etc) I have a timing light handy so the timing shouldn't be a problem, and if your carb is giving you crap, i'm sure a couple taps with a hammer and a choke adjustment will get it ready for a day of trail running lol...unless your accelerator pump is bad, then its off to CSK or autozone for a replacement.

vintagetrks - I'm unaware of the problems your jeep is having, but you'd be amazed what 2-5 guys with wrenches can accomplish in a day (today, by myself, I tore down my stock dana 27's outers, replaced wheel seals, cleaned/packed wheel bearings, rebuilt Lockout Hubs, swapped 2 tires on rims (i do tires the old school way with Spoons and a rubber hammer lol) changed transfercase and front/rear diff oil, greased Everything with a Zirk fitting and made 2 trips into PV for randome little parts for my Jeep, and a Saturn SW2 I'm freshening up) I'm down to help you get your rig back to 'road worthy' status even if it needs an engine rebuild (little secret...ssshhhh, don't tell anyone...I have a sunnen 'boring bar'...sits on the cylinder deck, centers itself and I bore away...ie, i do my own engine machine work minus turning cranks/decking blocks...i even have a couple old valve grinders that could use a tune up themselves, but still work well ;) ) And if your jeep isn't workable into a trail run, you can ride with me...i have plenty of room lol.

Heimeken - If you can make it out from texas, i'm sure we'd all be glad to have you run some AZ trails with us.

Jaber - I have access to a nice 'rat tail' car trailer and a Big Block Chevy 4x4 to pull it with if there's any local trailering to do (gotta give me gas money, the 454 eats more fuel than I drink Vodka...and I drink a lot of vodka ;) lol )



No matter what, to quote Gas Pumper, 'LETS DO IT!' Lets set something up that works for everyone and polute the forest with our gas guzzling pigs ;)

Being unemployed, I probably have the most free schedule for what weekend we go trail running...you guys figure out what works best for the majority and I'm sure I can make it.

Nathan.

P.S. I have a couple friends, 1 with a Scout, 1 with a Wranger who might want to come...are we excluding the baby jeeps and wanna-be Jeeps? hehe or is all welcome on a FSJ trail run.
All are welcome to our runs. I'm not predigest, but be ready for some ribbin...:D

Nathan, I'm home all weekend if you want to come out. I am open to any weekend.
I'll start a separate thread...

Here. http://www.ifsja.org/forums/vb/showthread.php?p=1093254#post1093254

[Josh D]

Ok, so let's nail it down to Smiley Rock for the trail on 5/8 w/camping and returning 5/9.

Now we'll just need to nail down meeting time/place. I'm thinking Prescott area and then carrivan up to Jerome. Thoughts?

[Tad]

Ok, Smiley Rock, 5/8 and 5/9 looks clear for that weekend.
Looks to be about 5-6 hours to Prescott for me at the choptop speed.

Can we please plan on getting an early start?
Like meet in Prescott at crack-o-dawn?

[Josh D]

Ok, Smiley Rock, 5/8 and 5/9 looks clear for that weekend.
Looks to be about 5-6 hours to Prescott for me at the choptop speed.

Can we please plan on getting an early start?
Like meet in Prescott at crack-o-dawn?

That would mean you'll have to leave on 5/7!!

What time do you think you'll hit Chandler? We could carrivan from there.

[Tad]

I can hit Chandler Blvd at I-10 in about 2.5 hours from my house, Chandler proper depends where (I'm not that famialer with that area very well).

We can work out the details but I'm good with a caravan.

[Josh D]

I can hit Chandler Blvd at I-10 in about 2.5 hours from my house, Chandler proper depends where (I'm not that famialer with that area very well).

We can work out the details but I'm good with a caravan.

I-10 & Riggs Rd. It's about 5 miles before Chandler Blvd. I'm about 20 miles east of I-10 & Riggs.

[Tad]

Cool, I know where Riggs is.
I guess we can take our portion of this to PM/email and figure out the rest.

[jaber]

Ok, so let's nail it down to Smiley Rock for the trail on 5/8 w/camping and returning 5/9.

Now we'll just need to nail down meeting time/place. I'm thinking Prescott area and then carrivan up to Jerome. Thoughts?

:eek::eek: Crap, now I HAVE to fix the waggie....:eek::eek:

Sounds good on this end.
The trail starts in Chino and ends above Jerome. Smiley rock is not an easy trail. I believe it is ranked up there (dont know the rating system yet). My stock waggie was just barely getting over the mild stuff, and the friend that was with me was in a stock Cherk and wanted to turn around.
We started the trail from Chino here. I guess the question is do you want to scale up the mountain or slide down it?:D

[Locked and Loaded]

Sounds a little rough for my belly rubbin J10. I guess I'll have to catch the next one.:( Have a good time and take pics.

[Tad]

Just stuff:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0CSwW1-B-k
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2032
http://members.cox.net/mwest9/Photo/SmileyRock/SmileyRock-20070915.htm
http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott/recreation/camping-day-use-ohv/mingus-mountain-cg-and-day-use.shtml

And:
http://www.azfj.org/modules/coppermine/albums/userpics/10002/smileyrock2.jpg

[akelts]

Guess I will have to sit this one out....One of my friends at work chose that weekend to get married.

Was looking forward to wheeling with some of the big jeeps too. :)

[Josh D]

:eek::eek: Crap, now I HAVE to fix the waggie....:eek::eek:

Sounds good on this end.
The trail starts in Chino and ends above Jerome. Smiley rock is not an easy trail. I believe it is ranked up there (dont know the rating system yet). My stock waggie was just barely getting over the mild stuff, and the friend that was with me was in a stock Cherk and wanted to turn around.
We started the trail from Chino here. I guess the question is do you want to scale up the mountain or slide down it?:D

In the Wells book, he has it between Crown King and Sunflower Mine as far as difficulty. I'm very familiar with both those trails and is the level of difficulty that i'm looking for. From pictures that i've seen and the vid that Tad linked, it looks like there is some challenge for stock to mild build 4X4 without great risk for breakage, rollovers, etc. Rocker panels might be at risk if your low without rocker protection. I think a mild lift and 31" would get a waggy through with some spotting. The Wells book has it being ran from the Jerome side. If that is the way it is typically ran, that is the way i'd like to run it. I'd hate to run into another group going the opposite way down in that narrow canyon.

It also looks like there is plenty of camping opportunity in the area. Not to mention the Spirit Room in Jerome, where I plan to spend some time Saturday night!!:thumbsup:

[Tad]

...It also looks like there is plenty of camping opportunity in the area. Not to mention the Spirit Room in Jerome, where I plan to spend some time Saturday night!!:thumbsup:
SOLD!!!

[jaber]

The Wells book has it being ran from the Jerome side. If that is the way it is typically ran, that is the way i'd like to run it. I'd hate to run into another group going the opposite way down in that narrow canyon.

It also looks like there is plenty of camping opportunity in the area. Not to mention the Spirit Room in Jerome, where I plan to spend some time Saturday night!!:thumbsup:

The guys around here start from the "great western trail" in the Wells book. That leads you to the beginning of the rough stuff. It dont matter which way we start. Its all fun to me. I'm more excited about meeting fellow Jeepers then anything.:thumbsup:
As for the Jerome festivities, I'm going to have to pass. I will have the wife and kids with me.
Which leads to my question, how do you think a stock XJ would fair on this? My boy would LOVE to take his Jeep on its first run...:D

[Josh D]

The guys around here start from the "great western trail" in the Wells book. That leads you to the beginning of the rough stuff. It dont matter which way we start. Its all fun to me. I'm more excited about meeting fellow Jeepers then anything.:thumbsup:
As for the Jerome festivities, I'm going to have to pass. I will have the wife and kids with me.
Which leads to my question, how do you think a stock XJ would fair on this? My boy would LOVE to take his Jeep on its first run...:D

I think a stock XJ with good rubber would be fine. Disconnected swaybar will help. Are you and your family going to camp?

[Josh D]

Here's a link to a slideshow of a club doing the trail. This will give you a good idea of the difficulty.

http://hilltopcreepersjeepclub.webs.com/apps/photos/album?albumid=8694219

[Tad]

http://hilltopcreepersjeepclub.webs.com/photos/Smiley-Rock-6709/DSC03936.JPG

Might need a little help in spots like this but I'm sure we can make something happen for the lower rigs.

[Josh D]

crickets...............:rolleyes:

[jaber]

Dont know if I'm going to be ready. I wanted to be a lot farther along on things here. My DD is messing up on me and I have to focus on a work ride...:rolleyes:

I'm trying though....

[vintagetrks]

Looks Like a beautiful trail and a fun time. Hope I can make it. :)

[Josh D]

You C. AZ boys need to get a move on!! We're coming your way whether you're ready or not!!:drivin:

[Tad]

Yep, talked with rstep last night, he's thinking he can make the trip up also.

[Josh D]

Yep, talked with rstep last night, he's thinking he can make the trip up also.

Sweet!! I'm really looking forward to this!

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I'd Love to run the trail with you guys, but with 235/75r15's and No Lift, I'm not sure it would be so much a Trail run as a 'Help Nathan Get his Bone Stock 1969 Waggy over every significan't obstacle'

From the pics posted previously in this thread, I'm not convinced I can run this trail with everyone.

I will Not have my lift/37's installed by then.

Nathan.

[Josh D]

I'd Love to run the trail with you guys, but with 235/75r15's and No Lift, I'm not sure it would be so much a Trail run as a 'Help Nathan Get his Bone Stock 1969 Waggy over every significan't obstacle'

From the pics posted previously in this thread, I'm not convinced I can run this trail with everyone.

I will Not have my lift/37's installed by then.

Nathan.

Borrow some 33's and break out the sawzall!!:D

[vintagetrks]

I'd Love to run the trail with you guys, but with 235/75r15's and No Lift, I'm not sure it would be so much a Trail run as a 'Help Nathan Get his Bone Stock 1969 Waggy over every significan't obstacle'

From the pics posted previously in this thread, I'm not convinced I can run this trail with everyone.

I will Not have my lift/37's installed by then.

Nathan.

I've got a couple Goodyear wrangler MTR 35's if you can find a couple more that oughta get ya up hi enough.
Don't think my Cherk has enough clearance with the 31's I have either not to mention my rigs other issues, but hope fully by fall I'll have it running enough to do some wheeling.

[jaber]

Borrow some 33's and break out the sawzall!!:D
I have a set of 33s mounted and ready to bolt on if you want to use them.

Do any of you guys know where to find the tubes that attach to the BA10 slave cylinder on an XJ? Cant seem to find a replacement set for the kids Jeep.

We REALLY need to set up a WOT soon. I think Rob in PV might come out this weekend.


Even if I dont do the trail, I WILL be meeting up with y'all to meet you. I am VERY excited about this. My big day of the year....:D

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Thanks for the offers guys.

I have 2 35's right now, and potentially 2 more from Vintage if they have usable life left. (offered to give them to me, but I'm going to trade him a part he wants/needs if they will work for me)

I plan on trimming the rear fenders to the doors and the fronts to where ever necessary to clear 37's in the near future (when I get a little influx of cash and can finish my axles/lift...about $200 away) but I figure (hopefully) I could squeeze 33's or even 35's under it at stock height by trimming the max amount.

Do you guys think I can squeeze 35's under a stock height waggy by trimming the crap out of the fenders? Or should I press on to find 33's in the temporary. (I'm pretty much flat broke)

I'm pretty sure I could run smiley rock with some larger tires, even if I beat up the rocker panels, I plan on removing them in the near future to make room for sliders anyways.

Nathan.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

No luck at the U-Pick-It?

I've seen a couple xj's in there, not sure if they have the trans/clutch combo you are looking for the lines.

Nathan.

P.S. What does WOT stand for (total noob question, I know) I've always known WOT as Wide Open Throttle....but it seems to be in use as some kind of repair party? :D Which sounds fun to me.



I have a set of 33s mounted and ready to bolt on if you want to use them.

Do any of you guys know where to find the tubes that attach to the BA10 slave cylinder on an XJ? Cant seem to find a replacement set for the kids Jeep.

We REALLY need to set up a WOT soon. I think Rob in PV might come out this weekend.


Even if I dont do the trail, I WILL be meeting up with y'all to meet you. I am VERY excited about this. My big day of the year....:D

[Josh D]

Thanks for the offers guys.

I have 2 35's right now, and potentially 2 more from Vintage if they have usable life left. (offered to give them to me, but I'm going to trade him a part he wants/needs if they will work for me)

I plan on trimming the rear fenders to the doors and the fronts to where ever necessary to clear 37's in the near future (when I get a little influx of cash and can finish my axles/lift...about $200 away) but I figure (hopefully) I could squeeze 33's or even 35's under it at stock height by trimming the max amount.

Do you guys think I can squeeze 35's under a stock height waggy by trimming the crap out of the fenders? Or should I press on to find 33's in the temporary. (I'm pretty much flat broke)

I'm pretty sure I could run smiley rock with some larger tires, even if I beat up the rocker panels, I plan on removing them in the near future to make room for sliders anyways.

Nathan.

Honestly? I think if you can squeeze some 33's with fender trimming you'd be fine. That trail doesn't look that hard to me. I've wheeled with Ralph Rogers on Sunflower and Mud Springs and he had minimal lift (maybe 2") and 32" and he never had a problem. I did Sunflower in my GW on 33's, open/open with a 4" lift and had zero problems. I don't see this trail be any more difficult, actually it's probably easier than Sunflower. You will want tow points on the front and rear for if you do get hung up.

http://i906.photobucket.com/albums/ac264/easyover/DSC01522.jpg
http://i906.photobucket.com/albums/ac264/easyover/DSC01520.jpg

I don't think you can trim for 35's without a lift. I don't think I'd recommend 35's on stock '69 axles anyway.

Between the three of ya's, you ought to be able to get one rig to work and you can all pile in!!

[Tad]

...Do you guys think I can squeeze 35's under a stock height waggy by trimming the crap out of the fenders? Or should I press on to find 33's in the temporary. (I'm pretty much flat broke)...
http://www.bjsoffroad.com/cartgenie/pg_projwag.asp
I think you could get 33's on there with that much cutting.
If you're still runing the front D27 I'd probably just wait it out.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I am in fact still running the dana 27 front. I'm not familiar with the strength of the dana 27 comparitively speaking, but I am a gentle footed wheeler and have already done things with my waggy I thought had a strong chance of breaking a front axle/driveshaft. I know smiley rock has been done by a few friends with 35's and 37's on dana 30/35 combo's with v8's and manual trannys with no trouble.

Tad - If I trimmed to fit 33's do you think there is Too large of a chance of breaking the Dana 27 front on smiley rock? I'm an experienced wheeler (well over 10 years in the Bradshaw/Mingus ranges and beyond) and feel confident in knowing how to treat it nicely lol...I don't do the Spin/Hop/Dig type stuff with my waggy anyways...too old to take it lol.

If I can squeeze some 31's to 33's under it before the trip, I'm game to give it a go, I certainly won't be able to do it with 235/75r15's lol (if I Did make it, I'd probably destroy more than the rocker panels)

Nathan.

[Tad]

Nathan,
When I wheel close to home I get much braver than when it's a 2-300 mile tow ride home.
That being said I think patience and experience will take a rig further than big tires and a heavy foot.
I wheeled my '51 Willys D27 front (truck not CJ) with 33's, 35's and 36's for quite some time with a V8 on top of it. I got quite good a replacing kingpin bearing caps on the trail and spider gears when I got home.

So, I think you should go, do it on 235's if needed, just take it easy.
Make sure the low range and brakes work well, bring a spare kingpin cap, Both Josh and I are locked out back, carry straps and I am happy to winch if needed.

Worse case for you, it's a trail fix and you are close to home. Most of the folks coming are way better drivers and mechanics than myself but I've never left a rig behind.

[Josh D]

With it open, I think you'll be fine. Again, I think the key would be to make sure you have tow points. If you get hung up or can't get over something without "reasonable" effort, one of the other more capable rigs will just throw you a lifeline.

Now all of this is also contingent on the condition of the driveline, and the rig overall. If there are parts already close to failure due to lack of maintainence for example, this trail will probably find it.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I have the patience to stack a couple rocks/etc if necessary.

But on a more positive note, I have a set of 285/75r16's, basically 33's (32.8 calculated, all terrains) but NO rims to mount them on. Being a 69, I need to chase up a set of 16in rims, 5 on 5.5 lug pattern, 7-10in wide (closer to 7 the better) with around 3.5-4.5in backspacing.

If I can chase up a set of rims that fit the above description, I would feel a Lot more confident but like you said Tad, patience and a light foot will probably do the trick. It just looked like there was only a couple spots on the trail that would be a bit rough for a stock height/tire'd waggy, but they are probably manageable.

If anyone here in AZ has a set of rims that fit the above description,

Thanks again. Hopefully see you all on this Smiley Rock Run, will be a riot.

Nathan

[Josh D]

Yeah, what Tad said!:thumbsup:

[Tad]

We'll stack rocks if needed.
I just like to stick back and toss them to the side once through.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

With it open, I think you'll be fine. Again, I think the key would be to make sure you have tow points. If you get hung up or can't get over something without "reasonable" effort, one of the other more capable rigs will just throw you a lifeline.

Now all of this is also contingent on the condition of the driveline, and the rig overall. If there are parts already close to failure due to lack of maintainence for example, this trail will probably find it.

I regularly run a trail here that is pretty darn rough to get down to my gold claim. The entire rig still has shy of 50k original miles on it and I've done all the maintainence recently (diff oil, engine/trans oil, transfercase oil, greased all ujoints, etc) All the ujoints seem tight.

The only question I have is What Lube goes inside the closed knuckles of the Dana 27 (if any)? It seems it has fill/drain plugs on it but I'm absolutely unfamiliar with the Dana 27's internals.

Thanks again everyone.
Nathan

[Josh D]

I have a set of 33s mounted and ready to bolt on if you want to use them.



What bolt pattern?

[Josh D]

The only question I have is What Lube goes inside the closed knuckles of the Dana 27 (if any)? It seems it has fill/drain plugs on it but I'm absolutely unfamiliar with the Dana 27's internals.

Thanks again everyone.
Nathan

Axle/bearing grease and 140W mixed into a pudding consistency.

[Tad]

...The only question I have is What Lube goes inside the closed knuckles of the Dana 27 (if any)? ...
I always made my own muck, 1 part wheel bearing grease to 1 part 90wt gear oil. Anything too thin just oozes out past the seals on the ball.

[Josh D]

Tad this is getting spooky!! We'll be finishing each others sentences soon.......:eek:

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I will mix up some and check/change/and or fill.

What exactly is that lubing by the way...i assume there aren't U-Joints attaching the stub shafts to the axles?

Thanks again
Nathan

[Josh D]

There were three (if i remember correctly) type of joints in the closed knuckle. Your's, if stock, will be a standard u-joint style that basically doesn't have seals. The lube muck will lube the joint and the king pin bearings as well as keep out water and other contaminents.

[jaber]

What bolt pattern?

Unfortunately they are 6 lug. I guess this will not help. :banghead:

[Tad]

Tad this is getting spooky!! We'll be finishing each others sentences soon.......:eek: Yea kind of creepy.
Oh well, today is leaf spring day. Time to start repairing this:

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Wagoneer/FrontSpringRepair/wavyspring.jpg
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Wagoneer/FrontSpringRepair/crackedspring.jpg

That should keep me busy for a bit.

[jaber]

Do I need to know any tips on swapping the seals on a 208?

[Tad]

Do I need to know any tips on swapping the seals on a 208?Not that I recall Jeff.
Remove yokes (or in my case yoke/flange), pry out old seal, tap in new seal, reinstall yokes.
My front output seal leaks a bit but I'll ignore that for a bit longer I think.

EDIT:
I know there is a correct tool for holding the yoke but I just use a pipe wrench.

[Josh D]

Yea kind of creepy.
Oh well, today is leaf spring day. Time to start repairing this:

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Wagoneer/FrontSpringRepair/wavyspring.jpg
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Wagoneer/FrontSpringRepair/crackedspring.jpg

That should keep me busy for a bit.

Looks like something bumpstops would cure.

[Tad]

Looks like something bumpstops would cure.
Yea, it's been sitting low on the front right corner since before the last 'Cruces run, which is when I lowered the stops 2". I think it was July when I broke the F250 shock tower off bottoming out in Silver (fell off in my driveway thank goodness).

Our older springs are thinner also, that's the 3rd set I have trashed in some form or another and only have one more spare main spring.

I have the GM rear springs cut down to match already this morning, just need some cleaning and a bit of paint. Probably use 3-4 out of the middle of the packs.
Hopefully I'll get back some of the arch (those were rearched to 4" lift in 2002) and can dump the extended shackles up front, they sort of mess with my caster on the freeway.

[jaber]

If those shackles dont have a home yet, I might be interested.:D

[Tad]

If those shackles dont have a home yet, I might be interested.:D
We'll see what happens Sat Jeff, I'd prefer not to run them.

[jaber]

No luck at the U-Pick-It?

I've seen a couple xj's in there, not sure if they have the trans/clutch combo you are looking for the lines.

Nathan.

P.S. What does WOT stand for (total noob question, I know) I've always known WOT as Wide Open Throttle....but it seems to be in use as some kind of repair party? :D Which sounds fun to me.

I found some replacement fuel tubing at Napa with the ends on it that I need. I'll just have to bend to shape and flair for fittings. :thumbsup:

"WOT" = Wrench-O-Thon...:D

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I like it, let me know when everyone else is gonna set it up and I'll try to be there.

I have a job interview today with an Aerospace Machine Shop I used to work for, hopefully things go well and I'll have a better source of income to actually Finish my jeep project (as if their ever done lol)


Nathan.

[Tad]

Two weeks to go, the ball is rolling, let's get a list up of who is actually going to run this thing.

[vintagetrks]

Two weeks to go, the ball is rolling, let's get a list up of who is actually going to run this thing. Hit Jaber up. He organized the run up here last year. Don't know if he's done any scouting up there yet as we just got rain and snow up here today. It should be good for wild flowers though. My heep is close to running but I probably won't make it.

[jaber]

I am trying to get mine going. I have to convert the trashed 229 to a 208. I dont have a clue what condition the 208 is in internally. I knoiw its a crap shot, but at this point, I'm running out of options.
I think I have what I need to get the kids XJ running.

I'm trying, just not sure if this will play out. Arent we always pushing these things to the last minute???:rolleyes:

[Josh D]

Two weeks to go, the ball is rolling, let's get a list up of who is actually going to run this thing.

Josh
Tad
Rstep
Nathan
Mike Adams (?)
Jeff/Jaber (?)
Vintagetrks (?)

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Yes.

Most likely yes.

I'm at stock height. with 235's. If I can chase up a set of 16in 5 on 5.5 rims before the run, I'll have 33in all terrains on it. (Will do some quick trimming to ensure fitment)

If I can come up with 2 16in rims 5 on 5.5, I can run 35's with a LOT of trimming (need some info on shackle flipping Post Mount rear Springs, easiest method to reverse them IE removing the rear mount and flipping shackle or can I just use a crow bar and some force to flip them...)

Regardless, even if I'm still on my 235/75r15's I'll give it a go and should be fine (even if I beat up the rockers, they are coming off anyways to make room for sliders)

(Pardon all the Paranthesis ;) )

Nathan.

P.S. Tad, if you read this, could you shoot me a PM with the easiest method to flip the rear shackles on my 1969 post mount waggy? I have a feeling its something you've done before :D Thanks in advance.

EDIT P.S.S. Vintagetrks, you are more than welcome to ride with me if you like...seems we are going to head out of Chino anyways?

[Tad]

(need some info on shackle flipping Post Mount rear Springs, easiest method to reverse them IE removing the rear mount and flipping shackle or can I just use a crow bar and some force to flip them...)

You'll need to jack up the rig by the bumper/frame to the point of least resistance on the shackle, not too little/not too much. pull the 9/16" bolt out of the spring and shackle, then flip the shackle. You have to take it off and turn it so the web will not hit the spring end.
Hopefully they are not frozen on there, it took an air hammer to get mine off.

Be careful, use a lot of jack stands/supports. I battled mine for several hours the first time around.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

You'll need to jack up the rig by the bumper/frame to the point of least resistance on the shackle, not too little/not too much. pull the 9/16" bolt out of the spring and shackle, then flip the shackle. You have to take it off and turn it so the web will not hit the spring end.
Hopefully they are not frozen on there, it took an air hammer to get mine off.

Be careful, use a lot of jack stands/supports. I battled mine for several hours the first time around.

Thank you Very much.

I hope to at a minimum to flip the rear shackles and install my front lift springs (they are 2 to 4 inch springs, I'm not exactly sure) but should bolt right on.

How much lift does flipping rear post mounts usually give (and will it be enough to worry about drive shaft length?)

Thanks for your Wealth of knowledge Tad.
Nathan

[Tad]

You should be fine on the drifeshaft length since the flip on a post mount will actually pull the rear wheel forward a little bit.
On really good springs some folks claim a good 4", with a bit of age and sag they will pobably settle in around 2-3".
Nice thing about the flip on a rear post mount is you can reverse it back to normal very quickly.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

You should be fine on the drifeshaft length since the flip on a post mount will actually pull the rear wheel forward a little bit.
On really good springs some folks claim a good 4", with a bit of age and sag they will pobably settle in around 2-3".
Nice thing about the flip on a rear post mount is you can reverse it back to normal very quickly.

That sounds perfect for what I need until I get my axle's done for the swap.

Lifting the front 3 inches give or take, will I have to worry about driveshaft length and/or Brake line length? It seems, to the eye, that I should be ok but I haven't broken out a tape measure yet.

Thanks again for your knowledge and quick responses. I know that people in my shoes (not being super familiar with FSJ's) can spend a few hours researching things like this, but it is Great to have someone with Personal experience to help out with the information.

Nathan.

[Tad]

Lifting the front 3 inches give or take, will I have to worry about driveshaft length and/or Brake line length? It seems, to the eye, that I should be ok but I haven't broken out a tape measure yet.
ACK!
Somethings I thought of in the last couple of hours.
Front brake lines stock are rather short. Unlike the newer rigs the bracket is welded to the frame, on the newer rigs they can unbolt it and drop it down enough to get by.
I may still have the 4" lift lines I bought years ago at the house. If so I can send them up to you. No $$ needed, we'll work it out over a beer or two. I'll look tonight when I get home.

The rear on my '70 came with this wonderful thing called a ball & trunion joint, you might have one if it's still stock, they do not tolerate any lift at all really. Hop under there and look, if you have a ujoint at the transfer case you will probably be good. Back then I had to get a yoke and start from scratch.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I do not have a u joint at the transfer case....its an odd looking setup (probably a 'ball and trunion') as you call it...won't even tolerate a shackle flip?

The brake lines would be awesome, I'll gladly bring beer of your choice.

I am leaving 5 minutes ago to chaperone a fieldtrip with my daughter to a D-Backs game in PHX right now and will have to settle the rest of this stuff over the weekend/monday-tuesday...

Thanks so much for the info, I will figure it all out before the run (might just have to wing it with no lift and 235's :D

Nathan.

[jaber]

P.S. Tad, if you read this, could you shoot me a PM with the easiest method to flip the rear shackles on my 1969 post mount waggy? I have a feeling its something you've done before :D Thanks in advance.

I was looking at the rear of my '75 wondering the same thing...

[Tad]

Nathan,
I have not found the brake lines yet but I'm not a real organized storage person (people that have seen my house tend to find it scary) a few more places to look. At the very worst I have the part numbers, it could be I sent them to someone already.

Ball & Trunion:
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/TechPics/ballandtrunion.jpg
If that's it just stop, they will not tolerate hardly any lift. If you go through that link in my sig "early wag lift search" you'll see it mentioned several times.

Jeff,
Same concept, you could try it and see what happens. I never tried it on a J20 but would assume the tire movement forward will be more noticable due to the higher/sturdier spring rate out back.
Pretty sure that even with the J20's that 74-75 is the odd change over years but that they do use the longer rear springs and not the 52" ones like the J2000's did.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Can I squeeze 33's by trimming fenders until I can fab up a rear shaft? (not that I have any 33's I can use at the moment, I'm having trouble locating some 16in rims 5 on 5.5) When I do I have a Very nice set of 33in all terrains ready to mount.

I don't have the money to order a rear tcase Yoke (unless you know of a substitute that will work, I have a 203, 241d, and potentially a couple other transfercases sitting around if one of those would work...or even yokes off of rear differentials..i have LOTS of different diff's sitting around)

No worries on the brake lines...that would probably be the easiest thing for me to fab up some extensions.

Hmm....I really wanna go on this run with everyone, but I would feel Much more confident if I at least had some larger tires.

Another question for ya Tad...the round yoke that the ball/trunion mounts to, are there any known driveshafts that have that same diameter/bolt pattern? I live on a virtual junk yard of misc parts and 4x4 equipment...I might have a shaft lying around I could whip up.

Thanks again,
Nathan

[Tad]

I don't think I would try to pull the trimming off with time so short, well, at least for me free time is combined to the weekends.
Trimming to the doors in the rear for 33's takes out a decent chunk of the rear inner fender wells, some folks do it by cutting slots and folding it in. That method allows you to get it sealed up faster You don't want all those fumes coming in from the rear.
Search for that, there have been a lot of fender trimming threads over the years.

Return of the Ball and Trunion Flange:
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/TechPics/BandTyoke.jpg
It is recesed about 1/8", the diameter of the shaft piece that mates up is 3 5/8"
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/TechPics/BandTpattern.jpg
Hole pattern looks symetrical at about 2 7/8"
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/TechPics/dana20shaft.jpg
Standard 10 spline D20 shaft.
I'm not really a tech guy so I'm measuring the OD of the shaft at what looks to be 1 1/8". Something tells me that's the same as a QT rear yoke, or front yoke, something like that, but I could be wrong.

It's been a long time but I have sold several of those ball and trunion flanges to folks (like $10) they were building custom shafts or something like that.

[Tad]

Oh, on a side note:
I'm going for a ride on my now super stiff front springs :eek:

[EnigmaticEngineer]

It seems I'll just have to wing it the way I'm running now.

In the pictures of the trunion flange, it does appear the bolt pattern is off set a little (if I turn my head 45deg to the side it appears that two of the 4 are closer to each other on each side than if you turn 45 the other way, hard to tell for sure in the pics)

Does anyone know if any Other transfercases/rear diffs/came with a 10 spline yoke that would bolt to the back of a D20? I have a few I could borrow one from.

Anyways, I should be seeing everyone for the Smiley Rock run (i'll bring a strap for quick rescue should I get high centered/hung up)

Thanks to all for the information, always greatly appreciated.
Nathan

[Tad]

Sorry Nathan, you are correct.
They are not symetrical at all. 1 7/8" going one way and 2 3/16" the other.

Might be something in here:
http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/PDFs/Spicer_End_Yokes.pdf
I'm coming up with 2-4-2851X as the part number.

[vintagetrks]

I will definetley won't be able to go now. My jeep is fighting me the whole way and I now have to yank the motor to get to yet another blown freeze plug. :banghead: The jeep gods are not cooperating with me.:(

[EnigmaticEngineer]

It seems that Many Scout II's came with dana 20's and they have yokes on the rear (according to my friend who's a scout nut) I might be able to hit up the local junkyard and if the spline count/size/etc are the same get a yoke for $11 bucks. Whipping up a driveshaft of proper length shouldn't be an issue for me if I can chase up a yoke so all hope is not lost yet :D I have the driveshaft from the rear of a 1977 Wagoneer with a Th400/qtrac that seems REALLY close to the proper length if the ball and trunion was removed and replaced with a standard yoke.


I'll be hard and heavy checking all this out in the coming week because if the yoke thing works out, I can squeeze another 3-4 inches of lift without doing much (shackle flip the rear post mount #$@#%^@ shackles and install my 'somewhere around 3"' front lift springs. Should only have to deal with the front brake lines and then I won't worry so much about being on 235's for Smiley Rock. (although I recently talked with a few friends who ran smiley rock in Stock XJ's and a Stock Wrangler with no issues so I'm stressing it less no matter what)

Thanks again, talk to you all again sometime tomorrow.

Thanks a Billion for your time, efforts and info Tad. You are more than helpful.

Nathan.

[Tad]

I will definetley won't be able to go now. My jeep is fighting me the whole way and I now have to yank the motor to get to yet another blown freeze plug. :banghead: The jeep gods are not cooperating with me.:(
Well, then just show up at camp, it will all be good.
We'll all have a good time reguardless of who drives what to where.
It's about us, FSJ folks.
Heck, 2nd time to 'Cruces I showed up in a 2WD Nissan truck.
No one cared, it was about thepeople, not the rig.

[jaber]

Well, then just show up at camp, it will all be good.
We'll all have a good time reguardless of who drives what to where.
It's about us, FSJ folks.
Heck, 2nd time to 'Cruces I showed up in a 2WD Nissan truck.
No one cared, it was about the people, not the rig.

WELL said!!!

Nathan, I just happen to have a Scout 20 here. I put it into project overkill and the rear out put bearing is chattering perty bad. I'm going to swap it out with the other one I have in hopes it is better. You are welcome to come pull this yoke and see if it'll work for you.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

It will have to be later this week, but I will take you up on that offer. If it will work for me, I will chase down a replacement so you aren't left with a transfercase and no rear output yoke.

Mucho Appreciado. (I know, not really spanish lol)

Nathan.

[Locked and Loaded]

Are you guys planning on camping in a campsite, or on the trail?

[Tad]

Are you guys planning on camping in a campsite, or on the trail? I don't thnk the trail is that long so probably at the Potato Patch or Mingus Mt. campgrounds, it looks like most of this is on the edge of a wilderness area and I'm not sure of the rules for that area.
Plus, Josh and I intend to spend some tavern time in Jerome after the trail :thumbsup:

[Tad]

I'm thinking about bringing my trailer, small 4' x 6' thing.
Any place close and convienent I can drop it for the trail ride and grab it quickly once we are done?
Maybe drop it at the campground?

It makes life so much easier to not have all that crap inside the rig for the whole trip.

[Josh D]

I suppose we could locate the camp spot first and then run the trail. If we ran it in the direction that Jeff recommended we'd end up in Jerome after finishing the trail. What do you think?

[Tad]

Would that be going up the creek bed?
I prefer to go up but it doesn't really matter.

There may be the possibility of getting Friday off and heading up there early to scout around.

[Josh D]

Would that be going up the creek bed?
I prefer to go up but it doesn't really matter.

There may be the possibility of getting Friday off and heading up there early to scout around.

Not sure which way is up.......

Either way, I don't think Jerome is far from either the trail entrance, exit, or campground.

I'm pretty much locked in to a Sat morning departure.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

that that the Up direction would be leaving from Chino Valley and then heading Up the trail which ends close to or in Jerome.

Tad. If you bring a trailer, I'm not sure where you could leave it without a Long journey back around...if we are camping at the top of Minugs and you were to drop the trailer off there, you'd have to drive about an hour back down and around to Chino (i'm assuming we are going to be taking off from Chino Valley at or near Jeff's?) That is if we are going to run the trail in the Climbing direction, which I also prefer.

There are still many ?'s on the exact plan considering the trail we are running, where it starts and stops, where we camp, and how easily we can get to and from The Spirit Room. If we camp on mingus after the trail run, it makes the most sense to run the trail in the Climbing direction so we can end Close to camp. If we run the trial in the decending direction, ie leaving From mingus and heading down, we would have to camp somewhere at the base of the mountains which is a good distance from Jerome.

Decisions Decision (and I'm not making them, i'm along for the ride :D )

Nathan

[Tad]

I'm pretty much locked in to a Sat morning departure.
I know, Em's parents live in Prescott. If we can both get the day off she would like to spend a little time with them. That would free me up to head over and take a peek at things

..Tad. If you bring a trailer, I'm not sure where you could leave it without a Long journey back around...
I'll figure it out, heck I could probably drop it almost anyplace and just pay someone to watch it for a few hours.

From the Wells book and what I have been web learning the standard way in starts in Jerome which puts the hard part at the end/going down coming right out by the Potato Patch campground.
Potato Patch has one spot for 4 vehicles, if (might be a big if) we/I grabbed that early Friday or Saturday morning it would make a lot of sense I think to run it backwards, have the majority of stuff at camp already, come out in Jerome and have a little fun there, then head to camp.

It also has the benifit that the hard stuff would be early on and if something happens it leaves lots of time to work through it.

[Josh D]

From the Wells book and what I have been web learning the standard way in starts in Jerome which puts the hard part at the end/going down coming right out by the Potato Patch campground.
Potato Patch has one spot for 4 vehicles, if (might be a big if) we/I grabbed that early Friday or Saturday morning it would make a lot of sense I think to run it backwards, have the majority of stuff at camp already, come out in Jerome and have a little fun there, then head to camp.

It also has the benifit that the hard stuff would be early on and if something happens it leaves lots of time to work through it.

My thoughts as well. Potato Patch would be a good meeting spot Saturday morning as well. Not sure I'm up for going all the way out to Chino Valley to back track back to the trail. I'll have to study the map to find the shortest route from I-17.

[Tad]

Cool,
I have a few maps from downloads and scans I can upload when I get home tonight (can't do squat from work).

[jaber]

My thoughts as well. Potato Patch would be a good meeting spot Saturday morning as well. Not sure I'm up for going all the way out to Chino Valley to back track back to the trail. I'll have to study the map to find the shortest route from I-17.

When I went into the part I was on, it was the "Great Western Trail" that we were following. My understanding was that it would lead us to Smiley rock. Is your book showing it starting of the Perkinsville/ Jerome road? If so I could just fly out that way and it would be quicker for me.

[Gas Pumper]

After scouring the web, some great chap uploaded GPS coordinates along the Smiley Rock trail. I'm working on an upload here for use with Google Earth. This guy started at the top in Jerome and came out at the top of Mingus Mountain.

I'll try to get this Google Earth file on here.

Update: File with GPS coordinates (.KML file, you need Google Earth). Uploaded to Rapidshare.
http://rapidshare.com/files/380647668/Smiley_Rock_Trail_FSJ.kml

Waypoint 6 has a picture uploaded by someone that shows a small chunk of the trail.

Also, remember there is a 6000' altitude difference between Phoenix and the top of Mingus Mountain. Don't know if that means anything to you Phoenix guys.

[Tad]

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Trails/SmileyRockMay2010/smileyrock1.jpg
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Trails/SmileyRockMay2010/smileyrock2.jpg
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Trails/SmileyRockMay2010/smileyrock3.jpg

Not sure how bad photobucket reduced those.
Working on a version from the 4 USGS maps that cover that area.

[jaber]

Great maps Tad.
It does look like the same trail. They just come in from Jerome, top of the hill. That map brings you down to the Chino valley where the trail starts into the base of the hills.
This should be great.

[Tad]

Here's a link going in from the PP side (might have been posted before).
http://www.roadrunner4wheelers.org/2008-9-20%20Smiley%20Rock/index.htm

[Josh D]

Good link Tad. Now if it were me, knowing a Liberty was able to get through unscathed, I would eagerly accept the challenge to get a stock/stockish Waggy through there!!

Ok, it's set. Meeting time and place will be the Potato Patch Campground @ 9 am on 5/8. Departure time TBD, based on if we are waiting on anybody.

Should be a good time!!

[Tad]

Some more stuff:
http://www.azbackcountry.com/gpsmaps/smileyrock.gif

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I have been on the majority of the loop it seems we will be traveling and Most of the route is accessable by 2wd with any decent clearance. I have never been on the Smiley Rock Trail part of this loop.

Tad - You can easily leave your trailer in Potato Patch. It is only 6 or 7 miles from Jerome to Potato Patch and its all paved.

Josh D. - If you haven't come up with a route yet, I would suggest I-17 North to HWY 69 towards Prescott. About 20 miles on Hwy 69, turn right on Fain Rd. Around 7 miles on Fain Rd you would turn Right onto 89a and then its another 8-10 miles to Potato Patch. All roads have 55-65mph speed limits and it would help you avoid coming in on Hwy 260 out of camp verde (which isn't a bad drive, just very twisty and slow and in my opinion, not much fun in a wagoneer)

Josh D. 2 - I don't think I'll have any troubles even though I'm definately no higher than that liberty was. This isn't my first rodeo for rough trails in under-equiped vehicles and it should be fun. I can say that even though it looks like we are running an approx 20 mile loop, only 3 miles of it are considerably rough and even then probably only a couple spots that will require a spotter (I should have a couple with me)

Sounds Like a plan.

Nathan.

P.S. Jeff, I am not going to try to get that yoke from you before the run. I'm just bringing two spare tires, some spare parts, some spare fuel, and a spare set of testicular objects lolz...If a liberty can make it, i'm pretty confident in my Bone Stock Wag-Sag'd Waggy.

[Josh D]

Glad to have you aboard on this run Nathan. Should be a hoot!

Thanks for the route tip. I saw the crossover from 69 to 89a on a map, but it was called something else. Roberts Rd I think. It went through PV.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Glad to have you aboard on this run Nathan. Should be a hoot!

Thanks for the route tip. I saw the crossover from 69 to 89a on a map, but it was called something else. Roberts Rd I think. It went through PV.

Robert road is PV's main st (basically) and it does run north and south between hwy 69 and 89a. Fain Road circumnavigates PV on the east side (the Mingus side) and has a speed limit of 65, Robert Rd is 25mph as it is a city street. Either way will get you there, but if you don't need to head into PV, taking Fain Rd will be quicker by about 25 minutes (estimate) and get you to the same point (technically, Fain Rd ends where Robert Rd Meets 89a) and you'd turn Right to head towards minugs on 89a. Being a local resident, when they paved Fain Rd it made a World of difference for traveling around here.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=prescott+valley,+az&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=51.04407,78.662109&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Prescott+Valley,+Yavapai,+Arizona&ll=34.658063,-112.239075&spn=0.208979,0.307274&z=12

There is a google maps link with nothing special other than showing how Fain Rd circles around PV and you can see jerome in the upper right corner. If you zoom in on the junction of 89a and Fain RD, you will see where Robert rd comes in.

Since we are camping at Potato Patch, I would recommend this route to anyone heading up this way from the Phoenix Metro area (unless supplies from PV are needed in which case Robert Rd and/or Glassford Hill Rd will do the same thing.

Either way, I would personally avoid going the I-17 to 260 and up to Jerome Route...Very scenic drive, but will add significant time to anyones journey from the valley.

Nathan.

[Tad]

Yup, Fain is the cutoff for us also.
We'll dip into PV to see Em's parents early Friday but there is little point in going further north and coming in on 260.

[Locked and Loaded]

Is everyone campin? Since I don't want to take the J10 on the trail. I might be there with my CJ5. Not sure about campin yet.

[Josh D]

Is everyone campin? Since I don't want to take the J10 on the trail. I might be there with my CJ5. Not sure about campin yet.

Tad, Nathan and I are, not sure about the others. Come on up in the 5.

[Tad]

Yup, bring the CJ and come camping Jeff, be good to see you again (pretty sure last time was box canyon).

Busy week for me next week with meetings mon, wed and thurs after work so I'm packing this weekend.
Jaber needs the Jtruck fuel filler stuff, check-ready to go.

I got junk to clean out so if someone needs something speak up, if I got it I'll bring it, but I don't want to haul stuff up and not have it go away.

Anyone need a 219 (might be a 229, need to look) core?
Shifter is wired shut so I've ignored it.
Or a 228?
Running pull from an 86GW w/100K (I'd like to at least get a sixpack out of that).

[jaber]

The way things are giong for me, I am going to try to make the meeting, but am not sure if the Jeep will be ready for the trail. Just not getting as far as I need to be.

I need a couple of clones of myself around here....:rolleyes:

[vintagetrks]

You guys please be sure to post up picks after the run. I wanna see what I'm missing out on. Gotta move next weekend and the Jeep is giving me grief.:banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

[Locked and Loaded]

Looks like my wife Shauna and I will be there. And will be campin. We are going to be in a CJ5. Just so you know it's pretty much stock. No lift. No lockers. 31 inch tires. I've had it since 1988. Been through some gnarly stuff over the years. Shes never let me down. So we should be OK. Can't wait till next weekend.

[Locked and Loaded]

Are we planing on setting up camp before we hit the trail?

[Tad]

Are we planing on siting up camp before we hit the trail?
Jeff,
Emily and I are going up Thursday morning, probably get there about noonish. There is one area at Potato Patch that they say has spots for 4 rigs and we are going to try to grab that for everyone.
So, we'll be setup and if we can get that area there should be plenty of room for folks to drop stuff, setup camp, chain stuff to my trailer or whatever we can or need to work out.

[Locked and Loaded]

Tad,
That would be cool. I'd like to drop some stuff off if we can. CJs don't have much room.

[Gas Pumper]

Well, looks like a no-go for me. I got dragged in for work Sat. May try to make it up to the campsite just to hang out and talk Jeep that evening. Enjoy the run! Plenty of pics!

[Locked and Loaded]

WE will be going through Wickenburg. Taking 89 and 89a. Anybody know the best place to top off the old gas tank before we hit the campgrounds?

[jaber]

WE will be going through Wickenburg. Taking 89 and 89a. Anybody know the best place to top off the old gas tank before we hit the campgrounds?

Costco or the AM/PM right next door are the cheapest places in the area. They are on Hwy 69 between Prescott and Prescott Valley.The detour would be Hwy 89 to Hwy 69, AM/PM, Hwy 69 to Glassford Hill Rd, to Hwy 89A.
For the folks coming up I-17, theres a new Maveric gas at the Fain rd turn which bypasses PV to 89A.
Hope thats not too confusing...:rolleyes: :D

[EnigmaticEngineer]

My daughter is going to be with me for this trip (she is 9). I am just curious if anyone also has any youngins coming along for the ride.

Nathan.

[jaber]

If I go, I'll at least have my 10 yo, and possibly my 15 yo boys.
I might have a couple of days to get things ready, we'll see how it goes.

[Locked and Loaded]

Keep at it Jeff. You and 8 donor vehicles should be able to get one ready for the trail.:D

[Tad]

...I am just curious if anyone also has any youngins coming along for the ride...
I feel so barren :D
(I'm actually not smart enough to be responsible for children)

[Josh D]

I'm not bringing any kiddos. Grandma will be in town.

Been awhile since I've tent camped. Trying to decide what to bring for just an overnighter. I've got plenty of room in the pickup bed if anyone from the valley needs me to haul stuff.

[Tad]

Mid 40's to high 60's, this is looking real good.

[Josh D]

Yep, weather is going to be great! Good luck on your trip up tomorrow Tad and we'll see you on Sat morning!

[EnigmaticEngineer]

No worries on my daughter being the only youngin. She's low maintainence.

I'm looking foreward to this a lot, going to be a lot of fun.

My daughter and I pulled the front seat out of my jeep yesterday and we pulled up the old carpeting and I found, to my dismay, our 4 letter enemy...Rust.

It isn't all the way through but its Severely pitted...my daughter was able to poke a couple holes using a puddy knife scraping up the scale so I will eventually be replacing the floorboards. I am going to wire wheel it in a few minutes and see if I have to use some 3/8th's OSB as temporary floor boards for this run. If anyone knows the best thread on this forum for showing a good method for patching floorboards back together after cutting out the rust I'd appreciate it...I tried using Google to search the site with no luck. Is there anyone that offers Floor Board sections aftermarket?

Anyways, I'm not going to let some rust and some minor leaks stop me from this run :D

Nathan.

P.S. Is anyone camping up at potato patch Friday night also?

[Josh D]

I think Tad is camping Friday night.

And this run will be good for shaking all that scaly rust loose. Then instead of picking at it piece by piece, all you'll need to do is suck it up with a shop vac:thumbsup:

[EnigmaticEngineer]

LOL.

I must say I was VERY disappointed to find rust on the floorboards being an original arizona jeep And having 50k original on the whole thing. The Entire vehicle is covered with a coating of surface rust but Nothing cancerous (other than the cargo area tubs behind the wheel wells which are being removed anyways) so it was a bit of a downer...

But Thats life with anything that says Jeep on it ;)

Nathan

[jaber]

BJ's has replacement sections. The carpet kits are what kills the floors out here. Wish they had spray in bed liner back then...:rolleyes:

Got new seals into the 208 and found the d-shaft, tomorrow I'm throughing it in. If all goes well enough, I might try the rear disc conversion, as I have a leaking rear brake cyl. Good brakes are a must, and I dont trust them this way.:cool:

Tad, if you get bored just call and I'll give you directions. I'm in North Chino...

[Locked and Loaded]

From what I'm reading. These campsites have grills. So I shouldn't have to bring one right? Whats everyone doing for grub?

[Tad]

...Tad, if you get bored just call and I'll give you directions. I'm in North Chino... Will do, leaving Friday morning.
Going to visit Em's parents most likely and scope out the trail if time permits.

From what I'm reading. These campsites have grills. So I shouldn't have to bring one right? Whats everyone doing for grub? I saw that too Jeff, never been there so I can't verify that.
I figure samwich stuff on the trail and some good ole' eggs and stuff for B'fast, haven't put that much thought into it like we do for 'Cruces or Ouray, it's not like we are 50 miles from no place. We can deal with it.

EDIT:
Just looked at what Em stocked it the fridge for this run, 2 flats of eggs (48), don't bring any eggs, I think we are good there.
If someone has a big ole' skillet that would help, mine is sort of small.

[jaber]

And for dinner, Jerome has some AWESOME restaurants...:thumbsup:

[Josh D]

And for dinner, Jerome has some AWESOME restaurants...:thumbsup:

That's probably what I plan to do since we end the trail in Jerome anyway.

[Tad]

Dinner in Jerome sounds good to us.
There is a band playing 2 sets at the Spirit Room Satuday, first set starts at 2pm (I forget who it is).
Plenty of after dinner munchies in my dry box for later that night.

[Josh D]

The times that i've been to the Spirit room the bands have been pretty good, playing covers of classic rock and blues. I imagine it will fill up on a Sat night. Should be a good time!

[EnigmaticEngineer]

What is the exact plan for the trip guys? I was a space cadet and forgot that Sunday was Mothers day and my daughter is supposed to be with her mom for sunday.

Heres what I know so far and please correct me if I'm wrong.

We are meeting up in Potato Patch camp ground area by 9am Saturday the 8th.

Are we running the trail Saturday then Dinner in Jerome/Camping/Spirit Room/etc?

Thanks...I have to adjust my original plans no matter what...
Nathan.

[Locked and Loaded]

We plan on leavin here about 6:00 AM. Wheeling Saturday. We will probably be to tired, dusty, and stinky to eat in Jerome. So we are bringing a couple steaks to grill Saturday evening. We will eat lite on the trail. Saturday night kick back at camp. I'm alcohol challenged so I won't be drinking. Can't speak for my wife.:rolleyes:
Sunday morning we plan on getting up early packin up and leavin. Thats our plans. But anything can change.
Nathan you live close enough the get your daughter up early Sunday for Mothers Day.

[jaber]

I got the 208 in today and when I put it into 4 High, it was binding up hard and scratching tires. Luckily I waited until I was in my dirt drive to try it. Sounds like I'm doing a front axle swap in the morning. That would explain why every time she put her truck into 4wd it would blow something. At this point, the body and frame are the only things I havent changed on this poor girl.:rolleyes:
I thought about just doing the truck, but it needs a t-case swap and front d-shaft. Plus it would only hold 3 of the 4 of us...:banghead:

I'm trying, I'm trying....:rolleyes:

[Tad]

We don't have to eat in Jerome and we love a good steak on a grill.
We are more than happy with a camp site, a camp chair, a minimal amount of broken parts, a few beers, a reasonably close bathroom and FSJ people.
No one needs to drink if they don't want to and everything will be just fine no matter what happens.
Packed and ready :thumbsup: (although for some reason I keep tossing tools in the trailer) habit I guess.

[jaber]

NASA, WE HAVE A GO!!!!!

Got the front swapped and all is well in 4x land again. My fam-damily will be there. :dancingbanana:

Nathan, what time are you heading up, we can caravan....

[amc79j10]

Looks Like I can be there for the run as well, see you sat around 9.
I will not be camping I have other plans for sat night.

Mike A and little joe the wrangler

[vintagetrks]

You guys have a great time:thumbsup:

[jaber]

T- minus 2 hours and counting.....:D

I'm so giddy I cant sleep.....:rolleyes:

[vintagetrks]

Don't forget to take lots of picks please Jeff. Tad says he might have a 360 for my Cherk. I'm gonna try to make it up to the Camp ground to meet everyone (no Promisses) but got alot of moving to do today. You guys be safe and have alot of fun I'll be thinking about you all. :thumbsup:

[EnigmaticEngineer]

The run was a blast. I couldn't camp tonight so I met up with Tad last night, had a good time, woke up, everyone showed up in a timely fashion, and no one broke down (I did run out of gas with my Trusty gas gauge showing 1/4 tank on the way out of jerome.....fun stuff)

An excellent time...still amazed that with minor rocker damage, 235/75r15's, and only getting hung up on a rock Once, the stock saggy waggy made it. (Pics to follow I'm sure, I believe everyone else got better pics than I did, I was too busy watching where I was driving lol)

Thank you very much Tad-n-Emily for setting up the camp for everyone, thanks to Tad and LockednLoaded for checking on me when I ran out of fuel, thanks to everyone who came, it was a great time and thanks to the AAA guy who brought me 5 gallons of fuel.

We WILL have to do this again soon.
Nathan

[vintagetrks]

The run was a blast. I couldn't camp tonight so I met up with Tad last night, had a good time, woke up, everyone showed up in a timely fashion, and no one broke down (I did run out of gas with my Trusty gas gauge showing 1/4 tank on the way out of jerome.....fun stuff)

An excellent time...still amazed that with minor rocker damage, 235/75r15's, and only getting hung up on a rock Once, the stock saggy waggy made it. (Pics to follow I'm sure, I believe everyone else got better pics than I did, I was too busy watching where I was driving lol)

Thank you very much Tad-n-Emily for setting up the camp for everyone, thanks to Tad and LockednLoaded for checking on me when I ran out of fuel, thanks to everyone who came, it was a great time and thanks to the AAA guy who brought me 5 gallons of fuel.

We WILL have to do this again soon.
Nathan

Glad you had a great time Nathan. Wish I could have made it up there. I wanted to meet everyone. Hope you guys post up the pics soon. I'm on the hunt for a running rig so I can wheel while I wrench on the cherokee so I can go wheeling this year.

[jaber]

My pics are here...

http://s252.photobucket.com/albums/hh14/jeffaber/Smiley%20Rock/

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh14/jeffaber/Smiley%20Rock/100_1620.jpg

[vintagetrks]

That yellow J truck is very cool. I also like Tads rig you don't see to many with that crew cab look also very cool. Awesome picks Jeff thanks for posting the link to them. :thumbsup:

[Gas Pumper]

I wanted to make it soooo bad. I got suckered (forced) to work today. Retail sucks. Anyways, I hope we can arrange another get together again. Hopefully the wag will still be running. :) Anyways, looks like it was fun!

[Tad]

Back, safe tired and dirty.
Need to catch up on some stuff.
Great trip, great folks.

[will e]

great pics jaber.

I wish I could have made it.

Looks like the group spent some time getting that one rig through that spot. Reminds me of the first time I took out my rig to box canyon! We had a great time trying to get my rig through the trail. What a blast. Really got me on the wheeln' bug.

[Tad]

...Looks like the group spent some time getting that one rig through that spot... Nathan managed to get his xmember on a good sized rock, sort of ala Flint at 'Cruces, one of those things where it's hard to picture getting on it without hitting it first.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Trails/SmileyRockMay2010/th_DCP_2858.jpg (http://s149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Trails/SmileyRockMay2010/?action=view&current=DCP_2858.flv)

I got to say Nathan was a trooper taking a stock '69 Wag out and the rig did great.
I have not even gone through all my pic's yet but I have about 20 of Josh's tailgate and at least 10 of either my dash or the wing window.
I ran hot all the way back (215*), fuel injection issues (again), but made it from PV to Tuccson in 4 hours and 15 min.
Still blowing dirt out of my noze.

[Josh D]

Good trail and a great group! Good times for sure!

I especially enjoyed watching Nathan pilot that old bone stock '69 through there. Having seen pics of a Liberty conquer the trail, we let it be known to Nathan that his driving skills would be called into question if he failed to properly represent the FSJ contingency! Well, suffice it say say, Nathan's a good driver and his waggy quite the old soldier.

Jeff's waggy could be heard a mile away after ripping off the exhaust! I'm sure that's probably why we didn't see any wildlife (other than Jeff, of course)! Great wheelin' with ya bro and glad your tenacity in getting it ready for the trail paid off!

Tad, what else can I say, I always look forward to the campfire conversation with you and the Blue Moons at the Spirit Room were mighty tasty while watching the eye candy dancing around to Tramps and Thieves!!

The baby Jeeps were represented well with Mike's very nice and capable JK Rubicon and it's always a treat to see a mostly stock CJ5 work a trail and Jeff's '83 is a nice original one and ran flawlessly.

Aside from cutting the sidewall on a Dunlap Mud Rover with less the 1K miles on it (%*$@#), my pickup ran flawlessly. I couldn't be more happy with it's performance since dropping in the new engine and the other upgrades I did. She's definetely a keeper!:drivin:

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Nice video Tad. I didn't know anyone clicked more than a few pictures. Thanks to everyone who spotted and threw a couple rocks down so I could back up off that beast of a rock.

Will E - Yea, I was that 'one rig' lol and I held everyone up for 6-8 minutes after that rock rolled up under me but with everyone's help spotting, was able to get out without pulling a cable.

I look foreward to getting together to do something like that again, hopefully soon, and this time I'll be able to camp with everyone on the Set night.

Nathan

[Tad]

...I look foreward to getting together to do something like that again, hopefully soon...Nathan
I really liked that area and the upper elevation camping was nice.
It looks like there are a lot of other trails out there well worth exploring too.
Besides running Smiley the other way I'd like to do something right about the same time next year up there, let's just pay more attention to the calandar and avoid any holiday type weekends.

[fulsizjeep]

Nathan managed to get his xmember on a good sized rock, sort of ala Flint at 'Cruces, one of those things where it's hard to picture getting on it without hitting it first.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Trails/SmileyRockMay2010/th_DCP_2858.jpg (http://s149.photobucket.com/albums/s80/tadsal/Trails/SmileyRockMay2010/?action=view&current=DCP_2858.flv)

I got to say Nathan was a trooper taking a stock '69 Wag out and the rig did great.
I have not even gone through all my pic's yet but I have about 20 of Josh's tailgate and at least 10 of either my dash or the wing window.
I ran hot all the way back (215*), fuel injection issues (again), but made it from PV to Tuccson in 4 hours and 15 min.
Still blowing dirt out of my noze.WHO YAH! Smoke 'em if ya got 'em! Good to see another old timer out on the trails. :thumbsup:

[Locked and Loaded]

Had a great time this weekend. Would like to do it again sometime. We had a nice variety of Jeeps. And no one had a major breakdown. Awesome. Here are my pics. Always amazes me on how big that Jk looks.


http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas011.jpg
http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas001.jpg
http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas002.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas003.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas004.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas005.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas006.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas007.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas008.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas009.jpg

http://i673.photobucket.com/albums/vv97/Dorscher/011109school2eas010.jpg

[vintagetrks]

Those are awesome pics. I sure hated to miss this one. I'm trying to get another running waggy so I can do some wheeling this season. Would love to be able to take my wife to Ouray. Maybe we can get another run going up here when it gets to hot down in the valley. Has anyone ever run smiley rock at night?

[Tad]

...Maybe we can get another run going up here when it gets to hot down in the valley. Has anyone ever run smiley rock at night?
It's hot already Randy :(
I'm pretty much done with across the desert driving until October and 'Cruces, I'll probably do a few Silver City runs but I leave at like 2am for those.
I think it's doable at night but my rig is electrically challenged.

***
I need to move this over to the Regional SW section so we are not treading on some of the more current events coming up.

[vintagetrks]

It's hot already Randy :(
I'm pretty much done with across the desert driving until October and 'Cruces, I'll probably do a few Silver City runs but I leave at like 2am for those.
I think it's doable at night but my rig is electrically challenged.

***
I need to move this over to the Regional SW section so we are not treading on some of the more current events coming up.

I have'nt been to Tucson in a long while. I'm thinking of going to Ouray this year if the wife and I can swing it. Maybe we can get a fall run going up here or even a run up Flagstaff way. I've heard of a place called the cinders that sounds pretty cool.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

I'm back to work finally. A position at a small aerospace shop opened up and the owner called me immediately. I'll soon have the cash I need to buy seals/bearings/etc to finish my axles and install my lift!

Plus, I'll have access to multiple pieces of modern manufacturing equipment (from Mandrel Tubing Benders to CNC Mills and CNC Lathes) all of which, I am Very familiar with programming/setting up and operating. (I've also done extensive grind shop/hone work but sadly, no crankshaft grinding/rod resizing at this shop :( )

Anyways, I was just feeling happy about employment and felt this the most appropriate place for me to post it as I've met many of the people on this thread in person and I figure that this post is only appropriate to the FSJ'ers I have talked with personally.

Time to load up the pockets and then unload them on jeep parts/mods lol.

Nathan.

[Locked and Loaded]

Congrats Nathan. Now go get some rock sliders and a full tank of gas.:D

[Tad]

Congrats Nathan. Now go get some rock sliders and a full tank of gas.:D
LMAO :thumbsup:
Glad to hear you picked up some steady work Nathan.

[Josh D]

Congrats Nathan!:thumbsup:

I still got dibs on those wheels when you throw big axles under the waggy!!

[vintagetrks]

Congrats Nathan. Bet it feels good to be back to work. :D

[jaber]

Congrats Nathan. Bet it feels good to be back to work. :D

X2, it was nice to get the type of paycheck I WAS getting.
Congrats Nathan. Glad to hear things are looking up for you as well.

[EnigmaticEngineer]

Congrats Nathan. Now go get some rock sliders and a full tank of gas.:D

Awesome joke....but in my defense, I've run the gas gauge down to the E before without running out and I was at Half a tank on the gauge when I put 25bucks in before the run. As far as rock sliders, thats in the works now that I have a little extra cash. At least backing a mile down the mountain outside of jerome while an officer runs lights for me makes an interesting story around the next campfire.

Josh D - No worries, when I get the 6 lug axles under it i'll make you a deal...or you can trade me a firearm or ammo ;) *hint hint*

I'm excited to be back to work. 4 10hr days and 3 days off is pretty cool too. Thanks to everyone for the congrats.

I hope we make another run sometime in the near future, it was a blasty blast.
Nathan