I have just about decided to turn a rolling running chassis into a light utility vehicle, and 1st on the list is to increase ground clearance. What's the cheapest easiest way to accomplish this--and no--appearance doesn't matter.
You can remove the front cross member and install blocks. The rear is a little more difficult but you could make some shackles for the front and install blocks in the back. You will also have to install blocks on top of the struts and figure out something for the dog bone.
If you never plan on having it back apart you could just weld everything back in after you put the blocks in.
Anyone notice that the Jalapeno has the same front end as the new Jeep they unveiled at the auto show in Philly yesterday? It would be neat to take a 4wd jeep drive train and flip it in reverse for the Jalapeno...Who wants to spend 60k on a new jeep when you can build one for 15k
[This message has been edited by Xerces_Blackthorne (edited 02-01-2009).]
I think PISA used to make an Off Road Kit / forget the name / but maybe they have a "lift kit" left on the shelf.
quote
http://pisafierohq.com/rebody_kits/jalapeno/ Lift Kit The lift kit for the Jalapeno conversion of the Pontiac Fiero performs its function by spacering the front crossmember and the engine cradle from the chassis.
The front lift is 2 inches and is accomplished with aluminum and steel spacers for the crossmember and all related suspension components. The steering shaft is also extended by cutting a solid section of the shaft and welding in a (supplied) spacer. This retains all of the built-in safety features of the shaft, and only slightly changes the working angle on the universal joints. These are low velocity joints and still well within their operating range.
The cradle lift is 2-1/2 inches and uses solid aluminum donuts at the rear mounting points and steel weldments at the front. The struts are extended on the lower mount by welding on the supplied parts. An extension for the dogbone mount is also included. Coolant hoses need to be modified slightly, but all wiring and brake lines can be used as is with minor relocation of mounting points.
Blocks and extensions can be made from steel Don probably has on his scrap pile.
Well if your not concerned about handling and not going to be abusing it at high speeds you could probably get away with just installing some spring spacers and larger tires.
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02:01 PM
Feb 2nd, 2009
Fierosmith Member
Posts: 568 From: East Texas, USA Registered: Jun 2007
Originally posted by maryjane: Might be easier and cheaper to find a beat up old jeep in this endeavor.
I'm thinking you're on the right track with the Jeep idea. I've owned a few Jeeps, though most were rusted, dented and leaked, they were just great for getting around in the back woods, hauling and towing. If you go this route, I have always believe the straight six, manual tranny and lock out hubs to be the most reliable and take the most abuse.
