Thread: I am at a crossroads, need advice

I agree with all your comments, Jazzman. I don't intend to spend $14k straight up, its just where I would like the car will eventually end up, and if it happens to over 5-7 years so be it.

The maintenance and repair works I'm doing now will ensure that I get another 5-7 years if not more out of this car, and I will have a lot of fun doing it...hopefully....until I get bored and need a new challenge

Spending $$$ on a hobby like a 4wd is just a sunk cost really, there is no way you can ever get back what you've put in, but as Slunnie and co have mentioned it's the experiences you have where the vehicle takes you that are priceless.

Hendrick, I've ordered CW&P, HD axles, CVs and front diff lock from Ashcroft for under $4k landed (inc taxes). No way will you need to spend $12k on your beast.

The tyre size will really determine what you need to do in terms of gearing etc. Running 32s you can get away with standard running gear (although not ideal) and no need to fit flares and such.

Reliability work is always a good thing. A CDL, rear locker and a good set of 32s with a 2" lift will have you able to get most places you want to go, certainly if you're looking at touring. A bar and winch added to that starting package will set you pretty right. Spend some of that $ on setting up the Disco with things like drawers, dual battery etc.

Peter, thanks for the comments.

I already have a 2in lift, dual battery, front winch bar sliders and rear bar etc. I've had 32's on it before but it was a struggle to drive due to the gearing, that was before I had the ECU remap however. But i'd still like to get 4.11 CWP's and do a rear diff lock with HD axles as a minimum.

I took the head off this weekend and completed the overhaul, and will do a few other things such as the engine mounts, oil cooler, water pump and alternator (if $$$ permit, as there is nothing wrong with the alternator but it is old and caked in oil from a huge rocker cover leak) that are now much easier to access, before putting the head back on.

As far as suspension is concerned, I'd like to correct the front caster with caster correction plates as my front lower shock bushes keeps flogging out due to the angle and possibly fit longer travel shocks.

A 2" lift shouldn't require castor correction, I'd suggest that the shock mount rubbers aren't up to scratch.

4.12 diff ratios are spot on for 33s and there's a jump in what you need to do to fit them such as flares and offset rims. 3.75 ratios would be a better bet for the 32s.

The Bilstein 994/995 combo is great with a 2" lift, I run those with Dobinsons and they are spot on.

I think I will go with the 4.12's and 33's, which will help if I ever want to get silly and run 35's. I'll check the Bilstein's out, I am running Lovell shocks and Dobinson springs at the moment.

Got any pics of your rig Peter?