Thanks all! The kick helps me be creative, there are a number of things that I refuse to change or alter, so I get to really focus on the things I'm willing to change. That being said, maybe I should tell you all the plan or goal for this project. First and foremost it will be a DD/ family camping rig, so reliability and capability have to go fairly hand in hand. Not like that's a new concept LMAO.
So here we go, list of things I am hoping to leave untouched.
Body panels, I want to retain as much of the stock body as I can with the exception of my rockers lol
Interior, it is very clean and the option of 4 seats and space for the pup is great. Carpet and cardboard panels will both be removed but otherwise it stays stock.
Engine, tranny, and tcase all stock. Possible clutch upgrades or t-case gears in the distant future but all kick.
Frame rails will go untouched, other then adding hoops and brackets etc.
235/75/r15 is as big as I am willing to go, it's a DD after all.
ABSOLUTELY NO BODY LIFT! lol
Now the list of whats changing.
Bumpers front and rear.
Rear suspension, want more travel longer links, and more droop. Likely 3 link/panhard.
Overall lift of 3-4" all suspension.
But most importantly
Macpherson strut IFS is GONE!! But it's not an SAS. There is a lot work going into the front end of this project, new fabricated steel diff housing(narrowed), full cradle for diff and long arm IFS system, the addition of upper arms, and everything else that goes with it. Gain travel, strength, reliability, stability, tunability among other things.
I've had the IFS itch for years, I've designed 15-20 different setups and have put them into functioning cad models with success, bout time I build one. Updates coming, and input is welcome.