Heep 3.0 build

[Logan]

Starting this thread for my new Heep build. Just got my long arm brackets done. Now to set the drivetrain in and work on wiring it up. Going with a 4L and AW4 from an XJ. New frame and tube I bought from out west so minimal rust, and what rust is there is surface. Hoping to be done in a few months, but we will see.
This build is getting a custom long arm setup. 3 link front, single triangulated rear 4 link.
4L to AW4 auto to NWF doubler to D300
All the goodies (axles, suspension, bumpers...

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[Logan]

 

[dougiet]

Did you get this frame with the 4 link mounts welded in from the picture above?

" AW4 auto to NWF doubler to D300"
I am going to learn how this setup works! Seems less expensive than an Atlas T/C
It can also work as a 231 to D300?

I don't know if you need to install an SYE also. The stretch with a custom gas tank is smart.

 

[Kunker]

NWF doubler is effectively the planetary gearset from a 231/241 in a machined housing in front of the 300/205/whatever. No need for an SYE on the 300 as there isn't a slip yoke in the first place I think. Plus side - 4 gears, with the Eco version (you source and press in the gears yourself), it's much cheaper. It does put more stress on the input shaft into the 300, though, which is (in theory, although Bill may disagree) accounted for in the Atlas 4 speed from the get go.

 

[Logan]

4 link set up is a bolt on part. I did it this way so it spreads the load over a larger area. Hoping to not have the same issues as Heep 2.0 with the frame cracking.
Kunker put it well for the doubler.
It is a much cheaper option when you can find a D300. But you do risk breaking the input shaft from the extra torque. I try to only use double low if I really need it. Otherwise I only have the D300 in low. Eventually ill go 4:1 gears and upgraded shafts in the D300.

 

[Logan]

Got my XJ drivetrain set in the frame. An issue I was hoping to not have was the alternator hits the frame. Because of the offset mechanical fan on the XJ's, I now have to get a TJ A/C & alternator bracket from a 1999-2000. Luckily I found one and should have it by the end of the week.
I also am not doing the typical TJ trans mount and skid plate. I will be doing 3 separate cross members. One tot the transmission, one for the D300 and another to mount the trans skid plate to. I also will have to make a hybrid harness from a TJ harness I picked up a few years ago with the XJ harness to make the AW4 work. Yes it would be easier to shove an AX15 back in, but this way the wife can drive it. lol

 

[dougiet]

Yes it would be easier to shove an AX15 back in, but this way the wife can drive it. lol

Happy Wife, Happy Life.

 

[Kunker]

Web wheeler question - any concerns about having too many mounts in the drivetrain that way and twisting the the trans apart? I keep seeing comments about drivetrain twist and damaging components depending on where and how many mounts are used.

Likely me (and others) overthinking stuff again, but figured I'd ask.

 

[Logan]

As long as you don't use different materials, you should be fine. When people use say, poly engine mounts and rubber trans, you can break the housing. If all is either solid, poly or rubber, you should be fine. I'm doing engine, trans and final tcase mounts. The only reason I am doing a tcase mount is the weight and the fact its going to be so far away from the trans. Basically the same way I ran Heep 2.0.

 

[Logan]

Got the tcase's pulled and drive shafts. This weekend I'm hoping to get the axles pulled and start cleaning off the rear to weld on new mounts.

 

[Logan]

Got a few parts in the mail today.