Steves JK [Archive] - Sydney Jeep Club Forum

Steve F

08-07-14, 10:16 AM

So, bite the bullet and decided to retire the XJ and get a newer Jeep. It was a tough decision as the 14 year old XJ is a beast and has served us well but it was time to move on and get something more modern. We originally thought a 4 door JK was what we needed but as a family we mostly head off in our other new car, a turbo diesel station wagon, so we decided to go for a 2 door fun machine and will get a roof rack for longer trips or take the tear drop camper along (which now needs a colour change ;) )

Anyway, we looked at one JK, and bought it, a 2 door 2009 Rubicon. Not what you would normally do but the price was good, the mileage fairly low (39k) and it is a Rubicon (so retiring the XJ wasn't quite so painful).

Apart from the stock Rubicon JK stuff it has a few other things as the original owner optioned it up a bit.

Mopar front bar, rear bar and rock rails. Safari snorkel, projecta dual battery management system with dual battery monitor, tow bar, spotlights, Mygig Nav and bluetooth.

First impressions is the interior is made out of the same stuff as some of my daughters plastic toys, sturdy, that's for sure but welcoming, not exactly ;) The XJ interior does not look 10 years older ;) The boot, if you can call it that, is very very small, but it will fit a 25lt fridge for day trips and there are numerous other place to store stuff, under the front seats is pretty roomy. I hate the way the passenger seat does not lock forward when it is slide to allow access to the back, a simple oversight by Jeep but a pain already on any slope. I hear this was fixed in 2011 updates.

On the plus side it is quiet on the road (for a Jeep), and feels pretty peppy (I wont say fast but off the line it's decent). The seating feels like my XJ on 35's, tall with a good view, must feel like a monster riding in any JK on 35's. I'm looking forward to summer and putting the soft top on.

And some pics. It'll stay like this for a few months at least and will then get 2" of lift and 285/70 on the 17's. Other plans include the usual like a UHF, tablet mount and swapping a couple of bits from the XJ like the LED light bar. There are already some Mopar front recovery hooks on the way and a mount for the light bar :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140708_094215_zps5na3w2j3.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140708_094408_zpsdm5exom8.jpg

Cheers
Steve

nitrobrent

08-07-14, 02:16 PM

Good stuff Steve.You will surprised what you can fit in a shortie.You saw what we fitted in our TJ last year at Camp Coffs.
Enjoy getting to know the new Jeep,Brent.

uncaged123

08-07-14, 04:59 PM

Looks good Steve. I say you're ready to tackle those trails.

Steve F

09-07-14, 08:05 PM

First mod :) Scored a NAV-TV ALLGIG form ebay, unused, in the box with required AV cable. These things unlock the in motion DVD on the My-GIG along with allowing you to enter an address in the nav while in motion. More importantly I can hook up a reverse camera (plus forward) and view on the My-Gig. Also allows me to add a rear monitor so Emily can watch a DVD in the back. All plug and play and usual close to $400, was the only bidder and got it for $100.

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTA2NlgxNjAw/z/0kUAAOSw91NTs7p4/$_57.JPG

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTA2NlgxNjAw/z/M7cAAOSwbqpTs7qH/$_57.JPG

Happy with that.

Cheers
Steve

MRGC

10-07-14, 04:14 AM

We'll done that's a bargain.

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Steve F

12-07-14, 02:43 PM

Took the lightbar off of the XJ and sorted some brackets for it to mount it on the front bar, either hanging underneath or on top. I think I will take the spotties off as I never used them on the XJ and mount the light bar hanging from the front hoop so it's out of the way a little.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/f8ea41f3-f566-4bbb-bde8-2a03f84fe16f_zpse30bba4f.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

13-07-14, 03:36 PM

Mounted and tested the light bar (it's been a while since it was switched on) using the battery out of Bec's motorbike ;) I went to wire it up to the switch and loom used for the spot lights but at some point the wiring had touched the exhaust manifold and shorted killing the existing switch. I've sorted the wiring and rerouted it, without so much of a spare loop in it, and will replace the switch when I wire up the reversing camera.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140713_143959_zpsbedii4sw.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

17-07-14, 07:22 AM

I've got coils for sale
3 inch and 4 inch

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Steve F

17-07-14, 08:19 AM

Tempting as they are 2-2.5" is the max this time around :) I've had my fill of bigger lifts, the XJ was a total of 8" with tyres ;) I'm even enjoying the JK stock at the moment, but then I haven't been offroad in it yet ;)

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

17-07-14, 08:57 AM

The 3 inch are the max flex progressive. Work real nice. My camper is nose heavy, that's why I changed. But a tear drop will work well with them. I've even had to put air bags in my current set up. Best thing I've ever done

And 3" is the max legal now

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Steve F

17-07-14, 03:52 PM

Got my Mopar hooks on, bought second hand from the US so quite cheap.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140717_124917_zpshngkrfqv.jpg

Ready to give it a test now :)

Cheers
Steve

Jeep11

18-07-14, 12:12 PM

Hey Steve, great looking unit it does take long to spending the cash LOL

Steve F

18-07-14, 12:33 PM

Hooked up the NAV-TV ALL-GIG to the MyGig and now I have a reverse camera, double click of the power button turns it on at anytime or just pop it in reverse :) Might also hook up a front cam for picking the perfect line ;) I can also enter addresses in the nav now while on the move and play DVD's while on the move.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140718_122006_zpse4tr2cgq.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

18-07-14, 12:49 PM

Steve F

22-07-14, 05:52 PM

Mounted the reversing camera properly, also swapped it out for another I have that didn't have inbuilt LED's as they were quite bright when they were on which made it hard to leave on all the time, especially at night. Just need a rubber grommet for the cable to pass through.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140722_172405_zpshj27stvt.jpg

Also put in a Mopar fuel flap, Bec really didn't like the exposed filler and thought it kinda looked like someone has ripped the door off, had to agree ;)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140722_172343_zpsnlzdsrmh.jpg

Also sorted a 2" set of coils for it, should get them next week sometime :)

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

22-07-14, 09:46 PM

Did you pick up the blue mopar/lovells coils that were floating on some forum or fb?

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Steve F

22-07-14, 10:26 PM

Did you pick up the blue mopar/lovells coils that were floating on some forum or fb?

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I didn't get those but I had another guy contact me with a set of coils so grabbed those.

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

23-07-14, 04:17 PM

Good stuff

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dobbo56

23-07-14, 08:25 PM

I have the Lovell's 2" lift out of a JKU which gives me about 3" of lift, but very stiff in the back end, although they are softening with use. Doggy....

redrubi

24-07-14, 06:24 PM

Welcome to the JK Jungle!!

2009 means you may be able to fit 16" rims (check to calipers)

Now start to make the Man Barbie List!!! LOL

Cheers

Andy:pirate:

Steve F

02-08-14, 12:36 PM

Done a few more little things, one very minor thing was to replace the stock radio antennae with a rubber shorty one, the stock one was tapping on the top of the snorkel at freeway speeds and in the wind and it was driving me nuts. I probably could have put some tape on it or a rubber sleeve but I decided to just replace it altogether. Amazing the difference a lack of "tap...tap.tap.......tap" makes to the driving experience :) Also hoping to get the lift in tomorrow :)

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

02-08-14, 01:59 PM

That's odd. I only get tapping when a branch connects with it and flicks it

Paul-JK

02-08-14, 06:46 PM

You removed the low car park warning sensor!

Similar to Wally I've never had any issue with mine hitting the snorkel other than when something else hits it.

Steve F

02-08-14, 07:06 PM

Probably the brand of snorkel then. The jk is low compared to the xj and know all to well what carparks I'll fit in ;)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

12-08-14, 12:13 PM

Bought a bike rack and picked this modular one. Looks like the welder will come out to make an additional top for it ;)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140812_115437_zpss1qwdzri.jpg

A nice esky rack for easy trips out for the day :) The below gives a bit of an idea.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140812_115331_zpsyounenps.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

13-08-14, 02:17 PM

Added the Daystar dash top today as I wanted somewhere to mount the tablet/gps but I don't like windscreen mounts and wanted it to be easily removed.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140813_125347_zps7sc136a5.jpg

Then I covered the upright with velcro, looks like carpet :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140813_125353_zpsmfbdxrps.jpg

A couple of pieces on the back of my tablet, which normally lives in a case so not noticeable when out of the Jeep, and I have a nice solid mount but easily removed.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140813_125525_zpsigwxfd8g.jpg

I'll hardwire a USB plug in to the jeep and have it more discrete so it doesn't run up the front of the dash.

Works well with 'Torque' as well.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140813_130223_zpsvp3csond.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

15-08-14, 01:39 PM

1.5 hours from getting the tools out and having them packed away again :) Nice to have stock springs that pretty much fall out once the swaybar links and shocks are unbolted from the axle :)

From this

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140812_115213_zps61arpl2t.jpg

to this

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140815_130255_zpslitwr01e.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Hunno

15-08-14, 05:28 PM

Yer, that looks better.

Steve F

16-08-14, 07:28 PM

TRBN8R

17-08-14, 08:59 AM

Finally have a temp gauge sorted for the transmission :) It's one gauge I always wanted on the XJ but could never be bothered putting a physical gauge in.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140816_123439_zps7vtxqvfc.jpg

Cheers
Steve
Hi Steve,

Is ur JK a 3.6 or 3.8..... I also have torque but cant read the trans twmp on my 2008 3.8 JKU Auto.....
Also gr8 idea with the daystar.. I also have an Asus tablet and will copy ur idea of the mount...

Cheers
Mani

Steve F

17-08-14, 12:49 PM

2009 3.8 you have to create a custom gauge to do it. I'll post up a screen shot of the settings.
Cheers
Steve

TRBN8R

17-08-14, 06:53 PM

2009 3.8 you have to create a custom gauge to do it. I'll post up a screen shot of the settings.
Cheers
Steve
That will be gr8 Steve..... ☺☺☺ ...

Steve F

17-08-14, 07:09 PM

Start torque and on the main screen go to settings and then Manage extra PIDs/Sensors. Here you need to "Add custom PID", there are two you need to add.

This first one wakes up the sensor, you need to add it to the screen on torque but make it tiny and send it to the back as you don't need to see it.

PID = 3e01
Long Name = Whatever you like. I used wakeup
Short Name = Whatever you like. I used wakeup
Equation = A

This one is the actual gauge and you can add it on the screen like any other gauge

PID= 22b010
Long Name = Whatever you like. I used trans
Short Name = Whatever you like. I used Trans
Unit type = C
Equation = A

That should do it :)

Cheers
Steve

TRBN8R

18-08-14, 01:53 PM

Thanx Steve....

Steve F

29-08-14, 02:56 PM

Got some DW after the lift to 3" so, after my experience with the XJ, went straight for the AEV caster correction brackets. That top right hand bolt is a real pain with the exhaust in the way but I managed to get it out by jacking up the right hand side of the engine a little and then levering the exhaust out of the way. Anyway, drives solid as a rock again now.

Here's a quick pic, from left to right, stock, lifted 3" and with occasional DW, 3" with AEV drop brackets and back to riding like stock (better actually)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/AEVCasterCorrection_zpsfbca5f8c.jpg

Cheers
Steve

TRBN8R

29-08-14, 05:42 PM

That top right hand bolt is a real pain with the exhaust in the way

I actually cut the bolt off and inserted a new bolt through the hole in the chassis....

Budget for a new driveshaft and longer swaybar links as well..... I have seen the sway bar links get inveeted on big lifts.... Dieselcon recently did it.....

Steve F

29-08-14, 05:55 PM

I was tempted to cut the bolt but was already in my overalls and didn't want to go buy a new one :) Swaybar links already organised, I'm hoping I can stick with the stock driveshaft for now :) Also guessing the lift will settle at 2.5"

Cheers
Steve

redrubi

30-08-14, 02:05 PM

Looking good Steve!

But for #@%* sake get some muddies on the Jeep!!! LOL:encouragement:

Cheers

Andy:pirate:

Steve F

30-08-14, 02:49 PM

Looking good Steve!

But for #@%* sake get some muddies on the Jeep!!! LOL:encouragement:

Cheers

Andy:pirate:

Need to wait until the funds build up, probably wont be this year.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

02-09-14, 09:35 AM

Need some diff protection and am tight on cash so went looking on ebay. Grabbed one of these for $111 delivered, order on the 27/08 turned up today on the 02/09 from Malaysia!

Now I've have a good look at it I'll be ordering one for the other end of the Rubi as soon as the cash is available.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140902_085556_zpszhshl8xv.jpg

Look familiar ;)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140902_085725_zpsdc5rcefk.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140902_085731_zpsmyxl4uwd.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Flatfender

02-09-14, 09:58 AM

Looks good Steve.
I like the bottom drain plug(inc. magnet?) and the high level filler plug with dip stick.
Makes for quick and easy oil changes.
Cheers
Ian W.

Steve F

02-09-14, 10:08 AM

Drain plug and filler dipstick both have magnets on them, I was quite surprised, it's quit an accurate copy of the ARB diff cover although it isn't powder coated like the ARB one ;)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

13-09-14, 02:35 PM

Finally fitted the diff cover. Fits well and no leaks :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20140913_132425_zpsxn7agc4k.jpg

Cheers
Steve

rupicon

14-09-14, 11:19 AM

But where's the bottle opener

Steve F

14-10-14, 04:10 PM

Fitted a tailgate strut, sick of holding the thing open.

Used three roofing screws at the body end as the self tappers weren't getting though the metal, double skinned I think.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141014_152151_zps1eca3e06.jpg

And closed

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141014_153204_zpscfc1a5e1.jpg

Took a little tweaking to make sure the strut was not stopping the tailgate before it hit the stops.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXzc3aPQFlY

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

15-10-14, 04:34 PM

That should have been the first mod, B4 the lift even

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redrubi

16-10-14, 05:11 PM

I just fitted one 3 weeks ago! Watch out opening it when the arse end is downhill and you forget you've fitted it!:hopelessness:

Catches you off guard!! LOL

Steve F

26-10-14, 10:52 PM

Raised the light bar up to the top of the front bar and took the Narva 175 lights (with HID conversion) off of the XJ and put them on to the JK :) Also took the rear LED work light off the XJ and will mount up as a reversing light on the JK once I get the roof rack (off to see Wooders tomorrow)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141026_183821_zpspkjryo23.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

31-10-14, 01:26 PM

Remembered why I was never a big fan of the HIDS (warm up time) so took them off and put on some LED spots in there place :)

5" spots from ebay, 45w and 10 degree spread as I wanted something that would push most of the light forward to compliment the flood light bar. Not looking to light up KM ahead just something to get a but more distance. Quality seems good with an aluminium housing and a stainless components with a decent waterproof grommet for the cables. The mounting system also makes it very easy to get them level.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_122117_zps58d1ci45.jpg

One of each, they sit further back and are more protected.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_123025_zpslfrvns8c.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_123043_zps0wzntrjw.jpg

On a "pain to look at directly" threshhold they are up there.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_124843_zpsair58yp4.jpg

Now to wire them up over the weekend :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_125415_zpssfugcpn8.jpg

Cheers
Steve

richhenning

31-10-14, 03:43 PM

Can you share an eBay link Steve?

rich

Steve F

31-10-14, 03:48 PM

Can you share an eBay link Steve?

rich

Here you go, I offered $119 and it was accepted so you might be able to go a bit lower. Bought on Wednesday arrived on Friday.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/161133048684?

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

31-10-14, 04:05 PM

Bec also ordered this for me (Ok, I ordered it but it's from her), the roof rack, the front mount is also a light bar, which I don't really need but it is nice and strong. It's a 10th wedding anniversary present :) I guess I better sort something for her, maybe some nice muddies ;)

http://www.ruggedridge.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/fd8c5a6f6ebeb6625e25f80c71c3c6f4/1/1/11703.01.jpg

Cheers
Steve

richhenning

31-10-14, 07:43 PM

Ha ha nice one

Rich

Teshie

31-10-14, 07:57 PM

Think that is a hint to get a roof top tent :)

Steve F

31-10-14, 09:41 PM

Think that is a hint to get a roof top tent :)

All ready got one, spent 21 nights in it straight when we did the cape :) Bec would be happy to never sleep in it again ;)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

31-10-14, 10:21 PM

Did a quick test, just wired one of the spots to the lightbar switch as it was easy to do :)

Low beam with Philips Xtreme +100 bulbs

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_215244_zps1skhejo5.jpg

High Beam

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_215253_zpsowh4dpfw.jpg

Low beam with Light bar (60w flood) and single 45W spot, the spot really adds to the distance, should be great with two and everything lined up properly.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141031_215305_zps9hfcb1al.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

01-11-14, 09:02 PM

Got the loom in and wired up, switched with the high beam through a second switch, just need to angle both spots to the passenger side a little as they a bit off. Really pleased with the total output though, this is with everything on, flood, spots and high beam.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141101_203303_zpslzgeuipn.jpg

Cheers
Steve

stevet

03-11-14, 03:18 PM

Quick unrelated question for you Steve.............. How do you find the difference from the ride of the XJ as to the short wheelbase JK, prior/after your changes to it??...... Finding even the standard TJ ride a bit frustrating lately.........

Steve F

03-11-14, 03:44 PM

To be honest even stock it was a lot less plush than the XJ, the longer wheelbase is a much smoother ride with less see-sawing. In saying that it isn't bad, just the XJ feels like a trophy truck in the rough stuff compared to the JK, no doubt some taller tyres and more sidewall will help off road (a lot does come down to the wheelbase though) but on road I think it is just the nature of the shorty ;) All in all I don't mind it but have noticed a difference.

Cheers
Steve

stevet

03-11-14, 03:57 PM

Steve F

03-11-14, 04:32 PM

More mods happening :)

When I bought the JK it had a dual battery setup, nicely put together with a dual voltage monitor and 100A breaker from the battery etc but it didn't have the second battery in it. It only had the cradle which was attached to the floor in the boot taking up precious luggage space. First thing I did was unbolt it and ditch it. Jumping forward I have my roof rack on order and also some 12v 12W LED work-lights, these will bolt to the roof rack at the rear (one in each corner) and will double as setup lights for camp and off-road reversing lights.

So I can leave them on for a while at night with no worries I've decided to put a second battery in the storage compartment under the floor in the back. It will only be used for running the lights and charging up phones and tablets overnight etc, no fridge or anything like that as there wont be any room for it anyway ;)

The battery I bought is a 22AH deep cycle, full sealed and fine to run in the cabin in any orientation. It'll run on it's side. It's the CBC12V22AH With this in the floor storage there is still room for my twin head 12v compressor and currie tyre deflator.

http://www.fusionagmbatteries.com.au/tabid/323/cid/2/Products/Cyclic.aspx

And the lights I'll be running, they are 8cmx8cmx8cm

http://www.flyledlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/12Watt-Square-led-work-light-cree-4x3w-side-big-e1385541799858.jpeg

I tested what I have at the moment to make sure the dual setup does actually work and isolate from the main battery.

Current Anderson plug from battery isolator, I knocked up a quick tail to connect to the new battery, this is just the battery out of my wifes motorbike (for testing). The current cable will be run to the storage compartment.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141103_160525_zpsnpl43mhf.jpg

The twin power point already there, one is AUX and the other MAIN, I have an old fluro work lamp plugged in to check the AUX keeps power when the batteries are isolated (it did), also tested the main to make sure it doesn't (it also worked as expected)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141103_160540_zpse9vez26r.jpg

Independant battery readout for each one, they are both the same as the engine is running in this pic.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141103_160720_zpsrmcxubzn.jpg

Anyway, that's it. Hopefully 22AH will be enough to be useful, I think it will be fine for many hours of LED lighting and charging each night :) More pics when the rest of the gear shows and I can set it all up.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

05-11-14, 03:09 PM

Put an ALL-GIG TV in my JK when I managed to snag one really cheap on ebay, it let me hook up a reversing cam (along with a bunch of other things) to the MY-GIG screen.

It has an input for a second camera as well so I thought I may as well use it :) I now have a front camera as well as a rear camera. The rear comes on when in reverse or can be turned on manually from the my-gig. The front can be turned on manually from the my-gig as well. The plan is to leave the front on when offroad as it will automatically switch to the reverse cam when in reverse and then switch back again :)

Anyway, pics.

I mounted the camera in an aluminium box I got from Jaycar, couple of bucks, I painted it satin black and used double sided tape to mount it to the bar.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141105_143113_zpseidxc3sr.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141105_143108_zpst7rmkbty.jpg

Here's the best view I could get out the window.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141105_143735_zpsxdmbghnc.jpg

and the cam

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141105_143744_zpslhwlgr4n.jpg

And one more example, testing on the neighbors car ;)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141105_144027_zpsda7xfncl.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

06-11-14, 09:52 AM

Steve F

09-11-14, 06:08 PM

Waved good by to the XJ today :( On the plus side the credit card got a healthy injection of cash so ordered a few more bits for the JK :)

Been wanting a new compressor as the old one has got slower and less efficient recently so after some looking around found this, on special at the moment if you're looking for one.

http://www.4wdsupacentre.com.au/products/air-compressors/thumper-air-compressor-1.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LT5-geOXtmI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=av3PrFQ81vw

Also order a spiderweb shade top

http://www.spiderwebshade.com/jeep-products/jk-2-door/jk-2d/

Pretty much down to tyres now :)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

20-11-14, 01:57 PM

A few little things this week, firstly got sick of not being able to hear the GPS with the top open or windows open, I could have plugged the tablet into the MyGIG input but then I wouldn't be able to play music off of the MyGIG HDD. The solution was to get a Bluetooth speaker and put it on the dash behind the tablet mount (will use velcro to hold it down).

It's way louder than the tablet alone and there will be no problems hearing it on the road even with the top down, it's purely for voice directions on the GPS but the music is a good test, might come in handy when camping as well for a little background music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kz3POmA_M8

It's behind the tablet but looks like this and is waterproof, dust proof and cheap :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141120_130017_zpsde296ae9.jpg

Also mounted the UHF Antennae on a UNEEK bracket and ran the cable, just need to find the time to wire in the UHF.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141120_091247_zpsd4jxlpgt.jpg

Also wired up the second battery, the UHF will be wired to this along with some LED lights, it's hooked up to the dual battery isolator that was in the Jeep when I bought it so took me 10 minutes to do :) Just need to strap it down.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141120_091403_zpsetllfyp2.jpg

Cheers
Steve

DanD

22-11-14, 03:51 PM

Gday Steve,

What tablet have you got? Saw it at the last Jambo meeting and meant to ask as it was a neat size

Steve F

22-11-14, 07:43 PM

Gday Steve,

What tablet have you got? Saw it at the last Jambo meeting and meant to ask as it was a neat size

It's a Google Nexus 7 2013, fast little tablet and being a Google Android tablet one of the first for any updates, it got pushed the Android Lollipop update last week :)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

22-11-14, 07:49 PM

Dieselcon

22-11-14, 08:57 PM

Very nice.

redrubi

22-11-14, 09:12 PM

Fitted a Spiderweb shade today, ready for tomorrows heat.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141122_180257_zpspbcla3a0.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141122_180338_zpsjghyk0li.jpg

Cheers
Steve
Looks good Steve! Check out the side windows, they cut down heaps of sunlight + added security (deters them)

Steve F

23-11-14, 08:47 PM

Stripped the Jeep down today so I could load it up with folding tables etc for my daughters 6h birthday party, gave the 22AH second battery a test running the Waeco 40lt fridge in freezer mode (full of ice blocks) did a sterling job at keeping them frozen for the 4 hours needed with the battery dropping just below 12V (this was with an ambient temp in the 40's), looks like it might even do a night running the fridge with no problems :)

Cheers
Steve

glend

24-11-14, 10:27 AM

Steve I ran my Waeco 35 on a 55ah second battery on the Cape trip, and found it really struggled in the heat of the September Cape. I was charging it off my rooftop mounted solar panel but it would often drop below the Waeco cutoff voltage before morning. I suspect it was due to heat build up inside the KJ at night. I have seen a number of vehicles that leave the rear door open all night to avoid this heat load but obviously its a security issue in some places. At Seisia I just plugged the fridge into the camp kitchen AC and then it was fine. What I am suggesting is that 22ah might be too small for that 40l fridge/freezer , you don't want to have the voltage drop below about 12.4v over-night for long term life of the battery - even if deep cycle.

Steve F

24-11-14, 10:34 AM

No problem if it's too small, I didn't really plan to have it run the fridge on trips as the 40lt Waeco wont fit in the JK with 3 of us on board anyway ;) More to use it on day trips where it is just me and to keep the fridge running at stops rather than overnight, the battery was really intended to run LED lighting whilst setting up camp etc. Was interesting to see it run on freezer mode for as long as it did (in 43c heat) with no issues though :) For the bigger family trips the camper will come with a 100AH battery and 230W solar panel.

Cheers
Steve

AV8

24-11-14, 03:15 PM

No problem if it's too small, I didn't really plan to have it run the fridge on trips as the 40lt Waeco wont fit in the JK with 3 of us on board anyway More to use it on day trips where it is just me and to keep the fridge running at stops rather than overnight, the battery was really intended to run LED lighting whilst setting up camp etc. Was interesting to see it run on freezer mode for as long as it did (in 43c heat) with no issues though For the bigger family trips the camper will come with a 100AH battery and 230W solar panel.

Hi Steve, sounds like you got it sorted as you always do. I scratched my head for a bit learning some about batteries, solar panel etc. Anyway, whilst we are on the subject, I hope you wouldn't mind me chiming in some of personal calculation and understanding/misunderstanding. Please feel free to correct

From my limited understanding batteries are best kept >50% charged.

Just some rough calculation here, an overestimate:

Fridge/Freezer uses roughly 40A/24Hrs at 75% duty cycle
LED lts, movie,coffee machine, all uses about 10A/24 hrs
Keep Battery above 50% charge, say 50A/24hrs
Extra margin 20%= 20A/24hrs
TOTAL= 120 AH/24hrs.
Get battery>120AH for use.

Store DCDC and AUX BATT in cool env, ie; in cab.,under the dash,

Charge and maintain, also use solar to charge.

In this case, 70A/8hr solar charge x 1.5 (Safety Margin)x 18 Vmp (Average Solar Output Volts) = 236.25 W Panel ie; 240W say?

When not in use keep battery 100% charged and maintain it (alternator-DCDC/Solar).

This is for major trips obviously.

Steve F

28-11-14, 09:12 PM

Picked up my roof rack from Wooders today, fitted the windscreen hoop this evening but need to get some longer bolts for the snorkel and some spacers to push it out a bit. I'll mount the rest tomorrow and get some pics.

Cheers
Steve

Nixolus

28-11-14, 09:20 PM

Ooh! What kind did you get?

Steve F

28-11-14, 09:36 PM

Got the rugged ridge sherpa rack, mostly because it was at the cheaper end of the scale and also because the main hoop over the windscreen mounts very solidly, some of them flex too much and can hit the windscreen frame, I cant see that happening.

Here's a couple of pics off the web. All the tube is 2"

http://cdn.mkimg.carview.co.jp/minkara/note/000/002/831/305/2831305/p2.jpg?ct=3ff1d8ccc3f8

http://cdn.mkimg.carview.co.jp/minkara/note/000/002/831/305/2831305/p3.jpg?ct=3ff1d8ccc3f8

Cheers
Steve

Nixolus

28-11-14, 09:47 PM

Cool,
I have my heart set on a Uneek roof rack, but its a bit Pricey $$$

Steve F

28-11-14, 09:52 PM

Cool,
I have my heart set on a Uneek roof rack, but its a bit Pricey $$$

Yep $2500 for the Uneek with chassis brackets and shipping!!!! this was well under half that, well under, and the front hoop has light mounts as well :) With a 140kg load (on the move offroad) it will work just fine for me as mostly it will just take either my canoe or roof basket and roof bag.

Cheers
Steve

Nixolus

28-11-14, 10:07 PM

Nice, I'm thinking of swapping my kayak for a canoe.

I have a big arse jet tent that weighs a fair bit and is pretty long, Since I am struggling to put the seat down with two child seats, I think I need a rood rack to load it and the camp chairs and stuff that we need to go camping now that we are married.

Remember the days when you just needed a tarpaulin, a sleeping bag and a can of aero guard to go camping, and yes it was horrendously uncomfortable, but that didn't matter until the next morning. You certainly didn't think about it in the planning stages.

I have had orders to lux up our camping a bit since the fateful Fraser island trip when we had to spend a night in the Rocsta, me in an upright seat, and my wife curled up on top of the big blue esky.

Steve F

28-11-14, 10:15 PM

I have this if we need a lot of space :) Can sleep 7

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/IMG_4625.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/IMG_4583.jpg

Cheers
Steve

DanD

29-11-14, 08:38 AM

Steve F

29-11-14, 11:30 AM

Rack is fitted, didn't take long at all ad fits quite easily, just need the crossbar adapters and crossbars to help stiffen it up a little and mae mounting the canoe easier. At the moment it will take my roof basket easily though :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141129_110506_zpsxgzxpruw.jpg

Cable holds it up, very easy to open and light.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141129_093653_zpsvvpjr8xm.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Nixolus

29-11-14, 09:31 PM

Amazingly compact

AV8

30-11-14, 07:37 AM

All it needs now is a 6.4 Supercharged Hemi SRT conversion. :D

Steve F

02-12-14, 11:39 AM

Mounted my 12w flood lights to the roof rack, just need to wire them up now. That means drilling one hole in the rack, the hole for the wires to exit is already there.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141202_103303_zpsebce1i9w.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141202_103316_zpss7cu9viy.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141202_103336_zpsu8pinerm.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

04-12-14, 02:07 PM

Did some little things. I didn't want the clamps for my roof basket to scratch my new rack so I got some glue lined heat shrink and covered the clamps with it, was a bit of a pain getting the bottom piece on as it goes a little way up the side of each 'U' and then a smaller piece covering the join and down each side. The glued filled stuff is great for this sort of thing as it is double walled and tough, I've even used it in multiple layers to cover the foot shifter on my motorbike.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141204_124343_zpsh5qrsrcd.jpg

Also grabbed a pic of my Thumper compressor, I cut the battery clamps off of it and put on an Anderson plug instead, and then put another Anderson plug on the tail of the clamps. Now I can plug it directly into the external power I have on the JK or connect it to the battery if preferred, I rather not work under a hot bonnet after a day of wheelin though hence the Anderson plug instead.

This thing is huge compared to my previous twin head compressor and wont fit in the storage under the floor in the boot :( Ah well, strap and stuff can go in there now.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141204_131817_zpsmzbq4vbc.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

05-12-14, 02:04 PM

Ran the wiring for the work/camp lights through the roof rack, tomorrow I'll wire it up to a switch, I was considering wiring them up to reverse as well (switchable) but don't need all that light when reversing. I can always put in a DPDT switch to handle that later anyway.

Here they are testing the cabling on a motorbike battery in the back.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141205_120557_zpsa9383e2c.jpg

Wiring at the lights going into the roof rack, I drilled two 8mm holes, one for each.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141205_115335_zps4e05ac75.jpg

And coming out at the base of the rack near the pivot, from here it runs under the Jeep and into the back to connect up to a switch in the rear off of the second battery.

Still need to add the split pipe over the cable to protect it.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141205_120616_zpsecbb54b5.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

06-12-14, 12:39 PM

Finished the work lights, I used a missile switch cover to make sure they couldn't get knocked on while driving if anything moves in the back.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141206_121531_zps2618844b.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/steveff/media/JK/20141206_121531_zps2618844b.jpg.html)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141206_121544_zps17fe3c1a.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/steveff/media/JK/20141206_121544_zps17fe3c1a.jpg.html)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

11-12-14, 07:25 PM

Finally fitted the UHF, ran the antenna cable ages ago, ran power to the second battery when I did the work lights and a couple of days ago mounted the main unit (tiny thing) to the side of the center console down the side of the drivers seat. I put it here as I can hear the speaker in it and it's tucked out of the way (up under my dash is pretty packed already).

I mounted the handset hanger where there were previously some screw holes in the panel, the handset can be unplugged from it's extension cable and locked in the glovebox when the top is down :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141211_141756_zps768252ed.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/steveff/media/JK/20141211_141756_zps768252ed.jpg.html)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

16-12-14, 03:52 PM

Ready for a couple of weeks away at Christmas now. The only way we can fit 3 in and take all the stuff Bec and Emily "need" to take ;)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141216_151439_zpsbac89db5.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/steveff/media/JK/20141216_151439_zpsbac89db5.jpg.html)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141216_151355_zpse77f18ff.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/steveff/media/JK/20141216_151355_zpse77f18ff.jpg.html)

Also means I can take a tent to the Rydal camping weekend and wont need to drag the trailer out for one night :)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

21-12-14, 07:27 AM

Planning on running doorless over the holidays while I'm up the coast and exploring the beaches and bush around Crowdy Head/Harrington so have some Harley mirrors on the way to slot in to the upper door mount like this.

http://i842.photobucket.com/albums/zz346/powerlineguy1/2011-07-10190050.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

22-01-15, 01:56 PM

Ordered my new tyres today :) Should arrive and get fitted tomorrow....

After the great run I had with the KM2s on the XJ I went with the same, getting a local price on them not much more than a set of Achilles Desert Hawk XMT's or Summit MudHogs helped the decision too.

So tomorrow I'll be running on 285/70 17s, thought of going bigger but after how it performs even with the stock tyres I decided to stick to my original plan of keeping it legal as much as possible and limit any issues down the track :)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

23-01-15, 04:08 PM

And on :) That's the JK pretty much finished now :) Nice to have something 100% legal but capable.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150123_153457_zpsshr07mxe.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150123_153352_zpsswvbp9v3.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150123_153515_zpszxpn8iz0.jpg

Cheers
Steve

TRBN8R

24-01-15, 08:35 PM

U will still find things to play with..... Knowing you I dont think it is 100% there yet...☺☺☺....

redrubi

24-01-15, 10:43 PM

Now, That looks better!! LOL:encouragement:

Steve F

04-02-15, 12:31 PM

Was going to move the evap canister but decided to leave it where it is and put a skid on it. It was the quickest mod I've done, 10 mins tops and that includes opening the box, getting the tools out and packing away :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150204_121006_zpspvwzr54m.jpg

Cheers
Steve

redrubi

04-02-15, 04:56 PM

Steve F

04-02-15, 10:51 PM

One more mod, a fridge for the weekend and day trips, a Waeco CF25 (25lt), fits in the back nicely.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/WaecoFridge_zps991e587b.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/steveff/media/WaecoFridge_zps991e587b.jpg.html)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/WaecoFridge1_zpse23fb825.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/steveff/media/WaecoFridge1_zpse23fb825.jpg.html)

Cheers
Steve

redrubi

05-02-15, 10:36 PM

Just one more mod!!! SURE hahahahahahahaha!!!!:highly_amused:

Steve F

06-02-15, 12:52 AM

Got my second battery (22AH deep cycle), it's a perfect fit :) Now I can have light at the camp site all night if needed or plenty of light on the trail for repairs/recoveries. Should easily run a 1A (12w LED flood light) for 10hrs with plenty of power to spare.

Next step, bolt it down and wire it into the existing rear isolated loom.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141106_092416_zpshaqugelr.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20141106_092434_zpsz9i7ndru.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Got a second one of these batteries and will wire them in parallel to get 44AH at 12v. Mostly decided to do this as the space under the floor is a bit redundant, with the fridge on the top, and I am really happy with the first battery (ran the big Waeco overnight at Rydal when we went up there, that was from around 5:00pm to 9:00am, and was still good in the morning, should run the smaller fridge for longer) and doubling the AH rating is a good thing, realistically I could fit three for 66AH but I think this will be plenty for now and will see it ready for keep the beer and steak cold at Camp Coffs.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

09-02-15, 02:43 PM

Done, 44AH of deep cycle battery and 560CCA. Thinking of one more, since it'll fit, for the 66AH and 840CCA. Also only weigh 6kg each so happy with that :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150209_141908_zpsvzk30ny7.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

09-02-15, 05:07 PM

For fridge or winch use??

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Steve F

09-02-15, 06:35 PM

Fridge and led lighting, no plans for a winch and the wiring isnt up to a big draw of power in one hit.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

16-02-15, 03:00 PM

Swapped out the front factory shocks for some Bilstein 5100 to suit the lift, these are only a little longer when compressed but a couple of inches longer when extended. Just need to do the rears now.

Gotta also say it rides real nice even with just the front done so looking forward to putting the rears in.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150216_135834_zpsq0kds23u.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150216_135844_zpszlipeahn.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

18-02-15, 02:24 PM

Got the shocks in the rear along with a smaller spacer to level it again :) More droop at the back now with no change in compression.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150218_135439_zpsbmewerfv.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150218_140102_zps0nrxfypu.jpg

Done for Coffs now, and maybe even Jambo :)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

27-02-15, 01:55 PM

Ok, I lied, not done for Coffs, I wanted more power for the fridge and lighting at night when in camp.

Decided the space under the floor was useless as soon as the Jeep is loaded up so added a third battery to the bank to make a 66AH battery bank. Runs the fridge for an estimated 38hrs at 32c, so longer in real life (with cooler nights), and this is without really drawing down the batteries too much. Just need to replace the leather gloves between each battery ;) with some rubber sheet to stop one battery damaging another. I had to cut the carpet to get them to sit nice and flat as it arched and held them like a sling initially. Real happy with it and have the fridge running now so I can check the voltage in 18 hours or so.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150227_131732_zpsenk9ojjj.jpg

And why I didn't bother trying to use the space for anything else.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150227_131849_zpsoxzw4xpl.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

07-03-15, 04:58 PM

Replaced the cigarette lighter with a USB socket (rather than having a plug in one that keeps coming loose offroad) also wired in a 12V to 5V (3A) converter to run the tablet on top of the dash from the back of the new USB socket. Now I have no more wires running up te front of the dash and two solidly mounted reliable USB ports

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150307_143615_zpsmieqeq0t.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150307_143704_zpsltwnaard.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150307_143636_zpspoaaun2y.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/5V-3A_zpsaxroedpa.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

18-03-15, 01:11 PM

With LED light bars getting cheaper I decided to swap out my 3 year old 60w light bar for a 120w one.

Before

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150123_153440_zpss4procfr.jpg

After

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150318_121327_zpsqwcfvmoq.jpg

Compared

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150318_120754_zpsh5bwhnly.jpg

Now for it to get dark so I can align it.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

19-04-15, 12:54 PM

With 3 of us in the JK and the fridge in the back there is no room for camp chairs, a necessity on a day trip :) So I built a simple fridge slide and will put a shelf above it for the chairs to lay on (which is why the fridge has to pull out). The slot at the bottom of the slide is so I can put a second slide with a small pull out table that extends from the fridge slide. It secures by slotting under the back seat and bolting to the two lower sub bolts. Now for the shelf and to carpet the lot.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150419_122240_zpsdsxkuaj6.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150419_122311_zpsjcgf4mpm.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Dave

19-04-15, 04:46 PM

Amazing work Steve! Wish I had a quarter of your skill! Can't help but notice that you still have the subwoofer next to the fridge. Know a few people have pulled them out to make more space (don't know if you then need new speakers / stereo...)

Reckon you'd find a use for the space!

Dave

Steve F

19-04-15, 05:35 PM

If I was desperate for the space I'd remove the sub but to be honest when things start to get so tight that it makes a difference I'll load up the roof rack ;) As an aside no need for any stereo changes, just unplug it and continue as before. Really all I'm after is room for day trip stuff, anymore than that means the roof rack anyway.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

22-04-15, 04:54 PM

Almost finished my Fridge slide with pullout table, just need to put a table top on the lower slides and tidy it up :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150422_160036_zpsnfjmf0ee.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150422_160025_zpsjygrqjdz.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150422_160016_zpscrqgcbzg.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

23-04-15, 12:25 PM

Pretty much done, just need to sand it, cover it (carpet and wood stain) and then bolt it down.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150423_111224_zps2d7kpcpg.jpg

Table is a push to open, I still need to epoxy it to the runners

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150423_111313_zpscbpu8rik.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150423_111349_zpsqxxc74lb.jpg

http://youtu.be/DW1M-IjJSDE

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

13-08-15, 11:15 AM

Got my dash cam in the post this morning and installed it. I also have a hard wiring kit but will put that in next weekend.

Here's some pics.

You can just see it here installed behind the review mirror, you cant see it from the drivers or passengers seat and it's harder to spot from outside against the black of the mirror so less of a target for theft.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Dash%20Cam/20150813_103454_zpsuck985nk.jpg

The base sticks to the windscreen and has two ports on it for power, they are also passthru ports so I will power it from the top and then use the bottom to run power out for my sony action cam when it is on it's windscreen bracket, a neat solution I think. The base is also the GPS receiver. Here I have power coming in from the bottom while I test.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Dash%20Cam/20150813_103747_zps9vgcntpv.jpg

And here it is with the mirror in place and the camera on the base.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Dash%20Cam/20150813_103509_zpsxsdmbgjp.jpg

And with the mirror out of the way, the screen turns off after a set time (in the menus) so it's quite discrete when running.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Dash%20Cam/20150813_103526_zpsbcy1pscr.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Dash%20Cam/20150813_103557_zpseayyufkf.jpg

And a screenshot of the video and gps data from a free app called RegistratorViewer

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Dash%20Cam/ScreenShot_zpsyybjrzud.jpg

I'll be using this along with my action cam for track footage and logging for Jambo :) Video is excellent and I have a polarizing filter on the lens to reduce glare and reflections. Tracks can be uploaded into google earth as well and saved as KMZ files.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

22-08-15, 02:43 PM

Queued but it was worth it for $79 :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150822_082835_zpstbcqsheo.jpg

No noise at all from it on the freeway, the wire roof basket was so loud I you couldn't talk over it, which is why we got this.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150822_090825_zpsn3iautb1.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150822_130250_zps1cduoel5.jpg

Cheers
Steve

redrubi

22-08-15, 05:38 PM

Is ALDI one of our sponsors?? LOL

Steve F

27-08-15, 01:23 PM

Made a simple yet very solid tablet mount, I was using velcro to attach my tablet to the daystar dash top but in the heat it would come off and was getting a bit loose and scrappy. I went and grabbed a few bucks of J profile aluminium (gutter profile in bunnings), cut three sections, used double sided tape (for now) to attach to the dash and called it done. If it holds up I'll take it off, paint it black and epoxy it to the dash top.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150827_123116_zpsnqxq6pm5.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150827_123342_zps3uko4xx9.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150827_123347_zpsyqjn9czi.jpg

Cheers
Steve

SteveC

01-09-15, 05:48 PM

Eh Steve. . Are you happy wit the clone diff covers you bought a while back? I see. many on eBay but??? I'm thinking before Jambo.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Steve F

01-09-15, 05:50 PM

Yep, nice and solid and no leaks etc, I only have one on the back, also thinking of picking one up for the front before Jambo.

Cheers
Steve

SteveC

01-09-15, 05:51 PM

So better value than the real ones? I see them for just $110-120

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Steve F

01-09-15, 06:08 PM

Way better :) And exactly the same as far a I can tell.

Cheers
Steve

SteveC

01-09-15, 06:10 PM

;)

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Steve F

05-09-15, 01:03 PM

Fitted the bonnet latches, easy job 30 mins tops, and decided it is soft top time again :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150905_112118_zpsf9wcfwru.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20150905_123529_zpsbxchnxtk.jpg

Cheers
Steve

SteveC

05-09-15, 01:12 PM

They'd be one of my best "investments" too. Good choice SteveF.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

redrubi

05-09-15, 02:08 PM

How Much? $$$

Steve F

05-09-15, 03:15 PM

How Much? $$$

Just looked and they are around $150, when I ordered there were about $20 less though :( That was on amazon.

Cheers
Steve

SteveC

07-09-15, 02:34 PM

Thanks for the advice re diff cover. I ended up ordering for the Dana 30 like yours.. 44 new time when cashed up

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

DanD

10-01-16, 04:39 PM

Steve F

11-03-16, 01:20 PM

Finally added a front end to my tablet that works well in the Jeep, has some options to keep the screen alive whilst on power, nice big buttons so easy to select, changes the home button to go back to this front page and has other things like goes to night colours at sunset (from GPS time) and that sort of thing. A swipe to the right brings up a second page of less used apps I've added, all configurable. Also has a phone dialer and music controls etc but I don't need any of that so removed it from the views.

Really liking it so far.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160311_090323_zpslnhl1uv7.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

16-03-16, 12:19 PM

Solar setup ready to go, just need to add an external plug for my lights in camp (in tent as well) and so I can run the fridge out of the Jeep if I want.

With a break in the clouds today I plugged the 80W folding panel in.

Below shows main battery and aux deep cycle batteries with the panel plugged in. They charge from the Jeep but always nice to keep them topped up when it's parked for the day.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160316_111045_zpsrohm27oh.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160316_111157_zpsiquoknkz.jpg

Plugs into the existing Anderson plug that I use for running the compressor etc.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160316_111211_zpszi2pb6vw.jpg

Cheers
Steve

darksidecustoms

16-03-16, 08:29 PM

Nice. So the panel has the MPPT charger built in?
I've got the option on my CTEK D250S Dual, good idea with the Anderson plug ;-)

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Steve F

16-03-16, 08:57 PM

Nice. So the panel has the MPPT charger built in?
I've got the option on my CTEK D250S Dual, good idea with the Anderson plug ;-)

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yep, MPPT controller is mounted on the back of the panel on the legs, to be honest though I don;t know if MPPT does much good when the panel max's out at around 18V ;) A decent PWM would do the job just as well.

I also have an Anderson to alligator clips in-case I need to top up the starting battery for some reason, or another battery pack.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

19-03-16, 10:33 AM

Another job sorted before Coffs, fitted a fused 10A marine socket to the rear bar for running power to the tent or running lights etc.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160319_100117_zpswdfbhgli.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160319_100144_zpsmq1e94pt.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160319_100156_zpsnv31jnn8.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

31-03-16, 07:44 PM

How to fit all the gear in a 2 door ;) Grabbed one from Bunnings and was a lot cheaper than expected, so grabbed the only other one there so one grey and one blue. They weren't on the website so maybe running out? Anyway, just for light stuff to go on the roof racks, 9lt gas bottle in for an example of sizing.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160331_184737_zpshayho0n2.jpg

Cheers
Steve

dobbo56

31-03-16, 09:38 PM

Ive had one of these for a few years now, cheap enough all right, the top warped a bit on mine but that's Ok because its inside all the time, I use it for my recovery gear, compressor, spares and tools, I fasten it to the seat mounting loops with turnbuckles, probably why the lid warped. Doggy..

Steve F

31-03-16, 10:55 PM

They have a 3yr warranty now so not too concerned about warping and for some reason they cost $80 each :) (around $250 from the manufacturer) Probably why there are none left now ;)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

03-04-16, 12:14 PM

So decided I need a flat rack for the JK, all the ones on the market are expensive or are generic and I want one that fits the roof perfectly and mounts to the existing crossbar adapters I have for my Sherpa rack. The adapters take a 1 1/4" round cross tube so that's the size of tube I'm going to use.

http://www.quadratec.com/Assets/Images/182847/182847-lg.jpg

Also decided it needs to be 1400mm long and 1200mm wide (roughly, will end up a little wider than this, closer to 1250mm)

Steel all sorted just need to fire the order off on Monday and get it delivered :) Wide enough to fit a box either side and the jettent up the middle and long enough to have the two boxes end to end if preferred.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/jk%20rack%20with%20Jeep_zpsjc1trr3l.jpg

Cheers
Steve

dobbo56

03-04-16, 04:49 PM

But your cars black...

Steve F

03-04-16, 05:40 PM

There you go

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/jk%20rack%20with%20Jeepv1_zps9xyh6anh.jpg

Cheers
Steve

dobbo56

03-04-16, 09:46 PM

Thankyou, much better. And clever too.

Steve F

07-04-16, 09:42 AM

Roof rack kit has arrived :) Looks like my next free weekend will be spent welding

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160407_081221_zpsbkxocbqv.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Dru

11-04-16, 06:24 PM

Steve

We need to talk. ;-) too many good ideas. Roof top boxes mounting system, rear bar power plug. Good. Very good.

Actually, you need to talk with Kerry, I'm all thumbs but I'm easily directed. :fat:

Steve F

12-04-16, 02:19 PM

Used the solar setup over the last 3 days :) Parked the Jeep and it didn't move after that. It ran my 50lt Waeco, charged tablets and ipads, ran lights etc, all from the 66AH battery array and the 80W solar panel. The battery was fully charged when the sun went down so had no problems running stuff overnight when it was cool and the extra oomph during the day meant I could crank the fridge up in the low 30's heat so the beers got icy cold quicker than I drank them. Without the solar I would have had to run the Jeep a couple of times to give the batteries a boost.

Having the power point on the rear bar also meant the internal one that the fridge is on while driving was free for other stuff and the fridge could be kept in the shade.

Really happy with the setup so far. I've also decided to mod the roof rack design a little so I can slide in my spare 20w panel so the batteries get a little top up all the time or for those times I can't pull the panels out and want to crank the fridge up a bit.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

16-04-16, 01:47 PM

2 hours from a pile of steel to the roof rack, all pressed together at the moment but I'll weld it later today and add some tabs for the solar panel etc :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160407_081221_zpsln1fjvxg.jpg

Cross bars under way, I just had to get the flapper disc on the ends of the bars to add a small taper and then smack them together with a rubber mallet. Will drill and plug weld these I think.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160416_103546_zps4b9kxbim.jpg

Once the cross bars were done I used the drop saw to split them.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160416_113621_zpstgvvhynw.jpg

And then smacked them on to the main bars with a rubber mallet, I'll weld the split and treat it like a plug weld to attach them to the main bars.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160416_113547_zpsqbzkatwj.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160416_113553_zps595f2wve.jpg

Then I split the end pieces, used a wedge to spread them slightly and pressed them on to the end bars and side bars.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160416_114854_zpsza3x7csc.jpg

All done, it mounts to my rack frame the using the current cross bar mounts and will replace the bars and basket. The gap at the back is wider to fit a solar panel.

Now to weld and paint (or powder coat)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160416_123722_zpsvitkb7bb.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

19-04-16, 05:18 PM

Roof rack painted and 40W of solar ready to mount on it as well. Gives me a total of 120W of solar with 40W always on and always connected to the dual battery setup. Means when I can't get the 80w panels out, such as truck stops or arked in my driveway, I can keep the fridge running.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160419_155439_zps2jgtanjr.jpg

Two of these panels going in the bottom section of the rack, will still leave room to mount stuff over the top but will provide some power when parked in camp for the day. They will total around 1080mm in length (rack ia 1200mm between side bars) and pretty much fill between the bars front to back.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20w%20Solar%20Panel_zpsgpk0agje.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

21-04-16, 06:11 PM

Roofrack done and back on :) Frame still fits so I must have welded the rack nice and square.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160421_132021_zpsvng9ck7a.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160421_140611_zpsjiutxoot.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160421_140715_zpslpufno8k.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

22-04-16, 01:54 PM

Added one 20W solar panel, one more to go and then wire them up :) Box just up there so I could check the panel was low enough to not have anything rest on it, basically needed it below the bars, ideally right between them to protect it from branches etc. I also plan to keep the rear section of the rack as clear as possible with just long items, like the tent pole bags etc going across it.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160422_132228_zpsyxur3pyt.jpg

Nicely tucked out of the way

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160422_132431_zps3ct6l4gn.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160422_132410_zpsbxwlq5xj.jpg

Mounted with some homemade style rubber mounts, allows a little bit of movement and flex.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160422_132145_zpsbmoj4uv8.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

25-04-16, 08:12 PM

Both panels mounted, so with these (not wired in yet) and the 80w folding panels I have 120w, these wired to the second battery setup and the 80w portable able to go to main or second battery. In theory I just need a few hours sun each day to get the 66AH up to full charge after a night running the fridge with 120w. Perfect for extended camping when the Jeep isn't driven.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Roof%20Rack/20160425_170622_zpsnisvrile.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

27-04-16, 07:49 PM

More bits on the way, already had some mounts that fit the rack, 4 of them.

http://www.chinyunlights.com/image/cache/data/brackets/lamp-stay-07-500x500.jpg

So order a few quick fists to mount to these so I can easily mount a shovel etc to the rack, now looking at a way to mount the MaxTraxs

https://www.expeditionexchange.com/quickfist/quickfist003%20028.jpg

Slowly having less dependence on the inside of the Jeep for travel :)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

29-04-16, 12:24 PM

Wiring all done for the solar, seems to work very well so far. I mounted the regulator on standoff cross pieces to below the solar panel so it got good airflow, it's also done so I can just see the indicator LED's when I go to the drivers door, piece of mind that it is working as it should be. The regulator is fully sealed in epoxy and is IP68 rated (6 means no ingress of dust 8 means powerful jets of water and is one below submerged).

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160429_115555_zpsngafoyvu.jpg

From the front

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160429_115538_zps3wxc1lva.jpg

With no load has the battery at 13.2v (overcast as well today)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160428_153740_zpsv9grxg9p.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

07-05-16, 11:06 AM

Not really related but shot out to Clarke Rubber this morning and grabbed one of their swag mattresses (on special at the moment), now my swag has 10cm of mattress, this one goes under the egg crate mattress in it already, and is very comfy, all ready for the June long weekend away. Still fits the straps around it when rolled up as well.

http://www.clarkrubber.com.au/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/430x360/f52de4c6a920ff791b3405f08441510b/2/9/29522.jpg

http://www.clarkrubber.com.au/mattress-swag-comfort-deluxe-32mmx750mmx2000mm.html

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

12-05-16, 03:22 PM

More parts on the way, ordered a Flex-A-Lite transmission cooler in preparation for Fraser Island over the New Year.

Plan to use this as a guide for fitment, I was going to buy a kit for the JK but at over twice the price and with a smaller cooler this seemed better value :)

http://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/transmission-drivetrain/154-1107-jeep-wrangler-jk-transmission-cooler/

Cheers
Steve

Wallyd

12-05-16, 03:51 PM

I bought mine from super cheap I think. Made up a bracket so as to not fit it straight onto the condenser .
Straight forward install. You'll need about an extra litre of oil

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Steve F

12-05-16, 04:47 PM

Yep, I'll be mounting on straps like this.

http://image.fourwheeler.com/f/36785259+q80+re0+cr1+ar0/154_1107_08%2banti_auto_bake%2bfinal_mounting_loca tion

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

17-05-16, 01:27 PM

Fitted a mesh behind the grill in preparation for the cooler, not sure if the stick on cable tie holders will stay there (although the ones mounted to the underside of the solar panels are doing fine) but if they don't I'll silicon it on when I do the cooler :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160517_120628_zps7h2ftt5t.jpg

Also, my tablet would go flat after a few days if I didn't turn it off. So I now have a folding 20W panel to keep it topped up when the Jeep is parked for a few days so the tablet is always ready to go. Testing at the moment.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160517_121515_zpsu4sszzbi.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

18-05-16, 03:01 PM

The awning arrived today, even has a black cover which is handy. Now to work out how to mount it to the rack, I think I'll make some custom brackets for it as I want it to sit below the rack and up tight against it, still plenty high enough and won't reduce clearance.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160518_141959_zpsnkd8dqcw.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160518_142057_zps1lnqwwny.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

19-05-16, 11:37 AM

Made a mid morning cuppa on my wood gasification stove, works great, doesn't need much wood and small twigs and sticks do the job :) Packs small and fits in the nested pots I have so all good with a 2 door.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160519_102139_zpsiuvidylz.jpg

Drop it in, light from the top, used a magnesium rod to light some lint and then chucked on some leaves and blew on it, worked a treat.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160519_102554_zpso7k14s9u.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160519_103948_zpscdilnvi0.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

23-05-16, 06:12 PM

Fitted the awning on the weekend

Brackets mounted using a pair of light mount brackets, really solid and tidy as well.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160523_163156_zpsipclcd0c.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160523_163202_zpsgowau5xg.jpg

Sits just below the rack so no change in clearance.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160523_164830_zpsmmoqnvrd.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160523_164928_zps72hjx1hk.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

24-05-16, 11:58 AM

Tested out the awning.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160524_111705_zpsmmnflagp.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160524_111637_zpsuyhk0ufd.jpg

Has a sail track edge so I can extend it with a tarp I already have or use my tarp as a wall when camped under the awning.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160524_111816_zpstw83jr6l.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

25-05-16, 03:43 PM

Added a couple of quickfist clamps to the other side of the rack.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160525_132400_zpsg4hbpout.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160525_132408_zpsosmb1nar.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

26-05-16, 02:40 PM

Grabbed a 4 Gallon (15lt) Rotopax for the roof, I like the low profile and the fact I can strap other light stuff over it as they are very strong.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160526_141159_zpsletls7zi.jpg

Also easily fits on the boot floor, which is handy for transporting empty. May get a water carrying one for the rear floor.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160526_141101_zpsvkcjh9r7.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Dru

29-05-16, 08:21 AM

Geez, you find some good stuff! Have you looked at the Rotopax mounting brackets?

Steve F

29-05-16, 09:35 AM

Geez, you find some good stuff! Have you looked at the Rotopax mounting brackets?

I may still get a mounting bracket but they are pretty expensive and I don't really need the quick release so will probably make one that attaches it to the rack with wing nuts.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

09-06-16, 12:09 PM

Decided to get the rotopax mounting plate and deluxe mounts. Had it all on the Jeep in 10 minutes ready for this weekends gold country trip. Later on I will get the mount extensions and another 15lt rotopax for a total of 30lt of extra fuel.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160609_105505_zpscwhq17n2.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160609_105635_zpspb7jffy6.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

13-06-16, 10:27 AM

All worked well in camp :) Did forget to take the plug out of the spout when I tried to empty the Jerry into it, luckily Dave pointed out my mistake :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/13432270_10153693330508170_3755571926719603037_n_z psfewuoskt.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

22-06-16, 04:21 PM

Picked up a trailer, cheap and will do the Cape and Fraser with no problem :) Will probably put shocks on it and loose a leaf or two from the spring packs but that's about it. At some point I'll change the pintle ring to hitch type that doesn't make any noise.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/Trailer2_zpsbkxea1v1.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/Trailer3_zpsacet1xsm.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/Trailer1_zpsquzr1w5z.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

16-07-16, 06:50 PM

Replaced the military loom with it's huge 12 pin NATO plug with a standard 7 pin flat plug loom, wiring was a bit of a guess but I only got the brake and taillight the wrong way around the first time. 30 mins from no light to this :)

https://youtu.be/whRFqZ1jnmc

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

17-07-16, 11:44 AM

Next job, fit the two adjustable panhards that I picked up today. Second hand but only on the Jeep for two weeks so like new. Also means I'll final fit the correct size bolts I picked up ages ago.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160717/c51ac6cf0a363f78884610f504bf3538.jpg

Steve F

20-07-16, 10:03 PM

Couldn't help myself, grabbed a couple of badges ;)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/1941Emlem_zpstroxxqd0.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

21-07-16, 01:53 PM

More stuff ordered.

I have a Mchitch on the way, I got the box trailer mount type as I will need to make a bolt on adapter for the trailer and want to keep it as short as possible, the box trailer bolt on type is rated to 2t and has a shorter mounting plate compared to the larger (unnecessary for a 750kg trailer) 3.5t type. It mounts with 3 studs, two at the front and 1 at the back.

http://www.murrayfab.com.au/images/stories/virtuemart/product/McHitch-BT2.jpg

Saturday I'll pick up some 200mmx200mmx16mm angle and make something like this (only thicker)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/IMG_1295_zps3a0tpyns.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

23-07-16, 04:53 PM

Put my adjustable panhards in, the wheels are now sitting in the same spots in the guards and the Jeep is so much quieter on the road as nothing rubs or binds anymore, feels like a new one, which surprised my a bit.

Just an easy hour to do both ends.

Also replaced the bolts in the front with the correct sized ones and nyloc nuts and not a moment too soon as I could already see a little wear on the mounting holes where the thread of the stock (slightly too small ones) had cut it away.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160723_164335_zpsnvkoqw0e.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160723_164246_zpsnjkrkddb.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

24-07-16, 03:26 PM

Realigned the steering and fitted the Stebel Nautilus airhorn that I originally bought for the motorbike, pretty easy fit in the stock location.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Do3tOUt7PtY

Cheers
Steve

Milky

25-07-16, 05:00 PM

Nice looking adjustable panhards Steve :smile-new:
Curious which brand you went with as I've been tossing up whether to go Teraflex or JKS myself.
What were your thoughts on panhards with heim joints vs stock or similar to stock bushings?

Steve F

25-07-16, 06:38 PM

These are the Roadsafe ones, got them for $200 for the pair second hand but you can get them new for around $220 each on ebay etc. The later ones (which these are) use a factory sized rubber bush which was important to me as it means the bush will be easy to get. I think with the size tyres I'm running etc this is a big enough boost in strength without going overboard in price.

With the way they mount I would stick with the rubber bush, it doesn't limit flex since the bolt goes front to back and it is very quiet and feels solid on the road, feels much better than my stocker did but that could just be because the bolts are the right size now and the bushes are new or possible the increased rigidity of the panhard itself (or all 3 combined)

I like the Teraflex one because it can be adjusted on the Jeep but couldn't justify the cost really and this took me about 1/2hr each end with a mate to remove the old, adjust and fit the new and I won;t need to adjust again unless I lift further.

Cheers
Steve

Dieselcon

25-07-16, 09:32 PM

Yeah in running the Roadsafe parnard on Rampage and seems pretty sturdy.. Bushes are easy to get.

Steve F

02-08-16, 04:00 PM

I have just bought this cooler and guard, actually bought the cooler first and then recently bought the guard, plan to install in the next few weeks.

Flex-a-lite 4118 and guard, I really only got the guard as it makes it easier to mount and I don't like those mounts that go through the fins. I'll mount it off of the holes used to mount the guard to cooler.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160802_154400_zpsii444rwd.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20160802_154418_zpsywvhmoa3.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

09-08-16, 09:01 PM

Grabbed a new dashcam, a DDPAI M6+, really liking it so far, takes some awesome footage but also has a really good app (Android and IOS). The app lets you get a real time view from the camera (meaning the camera has no screen so it compact), it also lets you edit the video and download straight to the phone/tablet from the camera after editing etc. Also has a separate remote button that you mount in easy reach to force it to take 10 seconds of video and a still which are then automatically downloaded to the paired device.

Anyway, thought I'd post up since it is such a great little camera just need to hook it up to my second battery so I can turn on the parking mode etc. Here's a short video from it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8wS45_olQU

And a review.

http://www.techmoan.com/blog/2016/6/23/dashcam-review-ddpai-m6-is-the-best-mini-cam-ive-used.html (http://www.techmoan.com/blog/2016/6/23/dashcam-review-ddpai-m6-is-the-best-mini-cam-ive-used.html)

Cheers
Steve

Mohawk

12-08-16, 09:11 PM

Steve F

12-08-16, 10:37 PM

That looks awesome. Dash cams have come a long way in the 3 years since we last looked for one.

Really impressed with the mounting system. I'd love to get your thoughts on it after some extended use.

Really liking it so far, used the button to grab some night videos. This one had no lighting other than headlights and then my lightbar and spotties.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPo9CAUP3Fk

And this one coming into Chatswood last night.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DceqFiR_rHA

And one last daylight test, underground carpark to outside to driving into the morning sun, you can hear wwhen it gets a GPS lock, only a few seconds after seeing the sky.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Welw5-HMZyk

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

07-10-16, 04:57 PM

Next job, going to turn the ammo box into a big bluetooth speaker with 9ah battery and port to charge with solar or from the Jeep. Will also add a couple of phone charging ports etc. Should be a fun project.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161007/d8a5e9939fff1451866f1ff66f4c4daf.jpg

Current speaker to show the scale. This will have two 4" or 5" speakers.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161007/b9e64ece67a6d2ea31dc4d6b46f4c286.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

21-10-16, 03:06 PM

Got back on to the speaker. Cut some holes (which I'll tidy up) and cut a piece of MDF to fit inside the ammo can so the speakers are not mounted to a piece of vibrating tin :) The speaker on the top is just my current bluetooth speaker and being used to hold it all in there.

The AMP is running at 12V and 2A from a wall plug in this test but will run from a 12V battery and switch to the wall plug if it is plugged in. Thinking I might up it to 24V and 3A if I want it louder but this was at 50% and as painful this close :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlIfhu5TEI8

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

01-11-16, 01:14 PM

All wired up and topping up the battery for a longevity test :) Did an hour with no drop in battery voltage after I turned it off and let the battery settle, it was still on 13v. Doing longer now.... should get at least 6 hours, probably more unless it's really cranked up.

CTEK charger doubles as charger and power supply when needed.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20161101_124706_zps2ialbrxk.jpg

Just needs the grills on the speakers and a 3.5mm audio input so I don't have to rely on bluetooth.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20161029_213415_zpsaspvglvm.jpg

Inside layout before wiring, Amp is mounted to the inside of the lid. Speakers and battery are mounted to a seperate wooden piece for better sound and a solid mount.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20161029_161942_zpsqakyp1qn.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20161029_134707_zpsudjarmfz.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

01-11-16, 05:03 PM

Realised I had some mesh left over from adding it behind the JK grill, slotted straight in :) I like the unfinished look on the holes, kinda suits the project so they are going to stay this way.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20161101_165731_zpsq3yecxbd.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

30-11-16, 01:47 PM

Picked up some spares for the trailer, now I have a spare wheel for the fraser trip as well as hubs etc.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161130/0c63a8d3edf0660e9c863eb359edae90.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

02-12-16, 03:34 PM

Add a portable washer (for the trailer), it's certainly not high pressure but will be great for cleaning radiators and windows, washing mud off before the trip home and with the addition of a PWM controller (few bucks on ebay) It will double as a camp shower (turn pump speed down to reduce the pressure and water usage and adjust hand piece to shower spray).

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161202/1be09f09e23cb754ab5f147ae21b9678.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161202/ee45098fdf7b5bdd6bf861eaddb8f97d.jpg

Steve F

05-12-16, 09:23 AM

Slowly getting ready for Fraser over the New Year. Added a transmission cooler, if you have been thinking about it do it, especially if you tow or 4WD ;)

It has dropped the temp of the transmission fluid about 25c to 30c in everyday driving, just feeling the hose going into the cooler and then coming out it is quite easy to tell. The most notable thing though is when I push it hard up hill the temp will climb but it comes down a lot quicker, as soon as the load is off, much more like the water temp does. Previously it would go up and then take a long time to slowly come back down again. This is possibly the best mod I have done in regards to general drive-ability and peace of mind.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/15203113_10154112375143170_765333180257096437_n_zp shkql3lkq.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/15171258_10154112375178170_6792376748593381897_n_z pscoveqsat.jpg

I didn't take any pics of it plumbed in but it's not much different, just imagine hoses on there :)

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

05-12-16, 03:40 PM

Flatfender

05-12-16, 04:24 PM

Steve, does your engine coolant now get hotter because of the hot/restricted air coming through the transmission cooler before the main radiator?
Cheers
Ian W.

Steve F

05-12-16, 05:13 PM

Steve, does your engine coolant now get hotter because of the hot/restricted air coming through the transmission cooler before the main radiator?
Cheers
Ian W.

Doesn't seem to make a difference, I'm wondering if it actually runs a bit cooler as stock the trans fluid goes through the radiator to cool it, mine still does but at a much lower temperature now.

Cheers
Steve

Hunno

06-12-16, 05:45 PM

37 degrees out and went for a 40 minute drive including some steepish winding stuff. Look at the intake temp when I stopped to take the pic ;) (shot up with no airflow). Auto climbed no higher than 6c above ambient temps maxing at 43, previously this would put it in the 80s.

Red dots on the gauges show the max yellow the minimum.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161205/dcf1e06b6ee4e05e5805c2eb021c772e.jpg
Cheers
Steve

Your transmission temps are half the normal operating temp of my grand.
I have to run it up to 80 degrees(normal operating temp) to check the levels.

However, my coolant normal operating temp is 80.

Steve F

06-12-16, 06:43 PM

Your transmission temps are half the normal operating temp of my grand.
I have to run it up to 80 degrees(normal operating temp) to check the levels.

However, my coolant normal operating temp is 80.

The JK Hot oil warning comes on at 115c, I have had it once offroad. The transmission goes into normal shifting mode at 25c (locks the torque converter over this temp). My transmission seems to run at between 35 and 45 all the time now :) Today it was low 20's when I went to work and trans temps were the same as yesterday. I think this was a great result as it is up to temp in a minute or so, no longer than before, but runs nice and cool all the time.

Engine temps on JKs are always pretty high 90 to 105 is pretty normal, mine is usually around the 95 mark. Consensus on the US forums is under 80c is good for the trans :) Totally different trans to your though.

Also remember the JK trans overheating was a huge issue when first released, the fix was the warning light/message and then stopping and idling while it cools down, when it should have been a trans cooler. 80c is listed as normal in the JK manual as well, although it does say how to check levels when cold as well, I think it's only listed as normal as this is what it runs at. After cooking a trans in the XJ I ain't going to do it again :)

Cheers
Steve

MRGC

13-01-17, 10:34 AM

Trans temp is way low 40deg mine has the cooler, I believe there is a thread created about this, cooler installed most JK owners were getting 70-80 deg on average.

You can make the engine cooler by installing the correct molar coolant and severe clutch fan.

It will sit around 80deg.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Steve F

13-01-17, 04:15 PM

All I know is it doesn't overheat (the trans) now and reads around 40 degrees lower than it did with no issues. Was great on Fraser even towing in the soft sand.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

23-01-17, 03:35 PM

Made a spare tyre carrier for the trailer, the tyre takes up too much room in the tub so made this. Welded to the draw bar and bolted to the tub (as the tub is removable)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170123_143521_zpsa2govqhg.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170123_144620_zpspmldblj2.jpg

Sits low enough.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170123_144643_zpshsc7egnx.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

27-01-17, 05:49 PM

Added an awning mount, took about half a day too make it once I had all the bits I needed.

Locked down

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170127_160223_zpsnmrli75d.jpg

Locked up

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170127_160326_zpscqescyxq.jpg

Awning out :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170127_155748_zpseomehksc.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

02-02-17, 01:25 PM

Added some aluminium sailtrack to the back of the awning so I can run one over the trailer to shade the fridge etc without having to leave the canvas cover on it all the time.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170129_170141_zpsv7eflyqp.jpg

I will either add some poles or just peg it out.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170202_120407_zpsy2dxtmg4.jpg

Vinyl awning covers makes the join water proof, just folds over backwards to fill the gap

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170202_120350_zpszmu4lm5f.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

06-02-17, 01:06 PM

All set for Camp Coffs now.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170206_103404_zpsyu5vzopy.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170206_103711_zpse1xi20ma.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

05-03-17, 01:28 PM

Added a simple external table for tea and lunch making etc.

Aluminium strip attached above the guard and painted black to blend in a bit.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170305_121637_zpsjyp5xrwm.jpg

Other half of the extrusion on a piece of flat pack do it yourself kitchen from bunnings, also stuck some rubber on the underside to stop it from sliding in the track and to take up the little bit of space the extrusion needs.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170305_120057_zpsq9kya9bm.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170305_115914_zpsvkxuovik.jpg

Done

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170305_120135_zpsbjzbbkz5.jpg

Takes up very little room in the trailer and is perfect for small jobs like making lunch etc. The table sits on top of the fridge when in transit.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

21-03-17, 06:08 PM

Next addition to the camping setup is a 600W generator, its a 1982 Yamaha EF600. Couple of good things about it, first it was cheap, second it's a Yamaha so spares are readily available (ordered a gasket and bits and pieces to fix a small leak when I turn it off) thirdly it is quiet and finally it's mechanically great and runs really nicely. It's big enough to run my 18A battery charger so perfect for camping when the solar can't keep up, an hour on this and the battery will be ready for another day or so of no sun.

Undecided on paint, either going to leave it as it is or do it military style to match the trailer.

https://youtu.be/ptYcN5daWYg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

21-03-17, 06:26 PM

Also finally updated torque so the gauges look more like the Jeep ones, I have a night and day setting that switches based on sunset from the GPS with day having a lighter background so the gauges stand out :)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/JK/20170316_193717_zps8tfqmo6m.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

08-04-17, 09:55 PM

Fixed the fuel leak in the generator and now have a wet weather charging option for Easter, the Yamaha and an 18A battery charger. This and solar should get me through all weather conditions :) All ready for Camp Coffs.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc200/steveff/Trailer/20170408_153254_zpsutqukpdc.jpg

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

23-11-17, 03:09 PM

Picked up my new trailer :) Need to put some airbags in the back of the Jeep to level it as my springs are soft but it tows great as it is and has plenty of storage with the flip over boat rack with basket on it. Weight wise it is 100% legal with the shorty, one of the few forward folds that is :)

Has a large double bed and a lounge area with table that converts to another bed for our daughter. Also includes 100AH battery, 100lt water tank, independent suspension etc etc :) Can't wait to test it out.

https://bqilrg.dm2301.livefilestore.com/y4ma8q5iNmvQC5q6guzl04xMClW-QgwFSTa1QCDpuBhQq8vS8QITdYHBYpkZrg9_AqlQeL-Yxk5O6Ldn3xVmrllQQjDWD3QaIuej89A-0SNkmaxBkwMH-KSPSqucxBqZtwCG5hEl54f5ujUjTbiZYM2X5Ke_6yxs8W9oZhY mzd9XRJ1AjYgX49nnO2yesrM4AfDIJ0l2mwDL6cHXGEA87FRYw ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none

https://bqiurg.dm2301.livefilestore.com/y4mdui9ZdiUkOiY3towiC6qReK7QUPMpdYPlnslZ4C5YgDwVdT QSffKqTzMjOCmyVtu3UP5EB-WRhpqNFp1PuhNQruIooNF6K41wrokTTJSS4MzEWv-LNPJpzasO8RDVkE0lji-KL2fK1P8o7ckDse57P3LIteutvsIE3_erpwwCc9KTfkN1Di8vA 87fLnHvQ_i_yAg1d_8kovPTde7K7_5ZA?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none

https://bqiwrg.dm2301.livefilestore.com/y4mkSw3kxaFrOxX2EiJrOtOy2Nf3r6S0gnKqMnRQ3WSz47glOC M4X-7232cHS98etDHHvPvviHADp9MG3BWzyd0PYm696xh_DTY7Zzfg hjwD2PGvEkvgDSBXYTaw1LsEpElh9fU0shaP9d_OlTTouf2k8B SzMeiUMkeb_GE1OqhLhk8KttL-5fqLdZVwZMsbEFzAqnLPGuu8hObDQav6QCmWA?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none

And what it looks like up (without the awning walls and floor on it)

http://www.ezytrailcampertrailers.com.au/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/950x583/0dc2d03fe217f8c83829496872af24a0/2/_/2_5_2_1.jpg

Cheers
Steve

SnakeDoctor

24-11-17, 02:11 PM

Nice trailer! Good to hear that it tows well, i've been keen to give ours a go behind the JKU.

Steve F

18-12-17, 08:19 PM

Airbags in, 40psi sees a decent lift in the rear for the trailer, should work well :)

https://aqlkcw.dm2301.livefilestore.com/y4mA4kDgEvhWRg--5MzzBlAg1UUedbpH0en3ocrxYfvpVQz0j2zB06Cauve-aRKjK-nv521rwGgUkf9LICdmLkFZFOJWU3axtSlPsGP9wercEniZIp3l u2hcR4132rsVZGzIMHYx2z0a9jIDVWGw1tasc7SOr_A-tpveEQ-hAJtgBw02DU7Ww_C-klI6p88Ao6v46KqVnTNzM_3eP1R94sKjQ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

30-12-17, 06:52 PM

Fully loaded trailer, with gas bottles etc, and drives great with the airbags. Set a bit lower than the pic abovem just enough to level it. Got a bit warm coming up Victoria Pass in 35C heat but temp dropped on the little flat half way up and then back to normal within a few 100m of the crest :)

https://aalxfq.dm2301.livefilestore.com/y4mSIPrlnlhHJRcIU7kWcY7W-VlDpof5dHMd2UBezpdfvqWHt6EtSdvTns7owSRulsfiqUVAK20 rkU7rei3uz1rzKv0YFl-sI3vyXfRAhbuY_cIpadBgFwFEXjMxOQAvoP2VWH3-x7UUWXwhHspRtNHLIjubV_mUTC1Fhw7LWWRKievhYh8Q4xhAFq-__WuMOVTvgKF85ZD7KfPCH7SABid7A?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none

Cheers
Steve

Jeep11

30-12-17, 07:40 PM

Looking good Steve, very nice set up

Steve F

30-12-17, 08:06 PM

First 3 nights in the camper have been great, we should have got one earlier :)

https://calwfq.dm2301.livefilestore.com/y4mxeEbuJIu9Jj9DIvdc-PBQOWi8lRpwUsc1fAl4xhgR8rpBC7WAl5w-nfWIEPTp1wOyr4jIGiK9ZOIZmqly6Rd-xwJSLtAOi8gm9u_mnX2iu1tXu8uvhQBbYCT6SndI9XzpHpnA1E RjapR7aNSKIal1tR9jfWump442v209tfIlPwH1DSfyXecYqRj-PQ3Ly2bmTzFsOPc5sWKR1HKpfM9cA?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

26-11-18, 03:05 PM

15 years of Muddies and I finally went back to AT's, like driving on glass!!! Looking forward to the Hwy miles now :)

https://bxd0xq.dm.files.1drv.com/y4m02TuWW1JS3L8EZ98yYwuzNdreA2Xm5deJ2gN7Z1k_kezu8k dXqVPJ40ySgM-r2jyfwdVFyAicUddMdpKLNFwfxZPTBrrlI-wfQN65yRGFlIQO_vwubfK1FGIEidgEyqWf1Oaf-_8S6EHZJ3wggGENV8N-o3nBBjsWzjo05nEeOmlTlDRRhKiVxn3QetmJNwoTiW7zw7En0X CyJPiOVs2QQ?width=1024&height=576&cropmode=none

Cheers
Steve

Jeep11

26-11-18, 04:25 PM

so does this mean no more off-roading Steve ???? watch out Dave and the touring brigade LOL

Steve F

26-11-18, 04:31 PM

so does this mean no more off-roading Steve ???? watch out Dave and the touring brigade LOL

There's still about twice as much tread as there was on the old muddies ;) But man, I didn;t know a Jeep could be so quiet on the road!!!

Cheers
Steve

Mohawk

28-11-18, 11:23 AM

There's still about twice as much tread as there was on the old muddies ;) But man, I didn;t know a Jeep could be so quiet on the road!!!

Glad you like ‘em! Hope the Toyo’s perform off road too.

We switched from 35” KM2 muddies to 35” KO2 all-terrains for our trip. The steering feels lighter and gas mileage has certainly improved so I’m happy with them for now, but road noise seems comparable and traction is worse in all conditions save dry bitumen. When we’re back I’d happily sport muddies again.

Cheers,
Nick

SnakeDoctor

28-11-18, 11:40 AM

There's still about twice as much tread as there was on the old muddies ;) But man, I didn;t know a Jeep could be so quiet on the road!!!

Cheers
Steve

Solid choice on the Toyo AT2 on paper - it's not easy to find an AT tyre in that size with a reasonable weight / construction balance.

73db noise too, or roughly half as loud as the KM2 in the same size (Euro db ratings).

Steve F

29-11-18, 10:07 PM

So done around 100km this week, same as any other week except full usage has dropped by almost 2lt's per 100!!! Need to try them offroad but the smoothness and quietness on road and the improved economy has me won over as long as they are decent offroad :) Thumbs up for the Toyos so far.

Cheers
Steve

Steve F

09-08-20, 05:27 PM

So the 3x22AH AGM batteries mounted under the floor in the back are well and truly dead. Rather than go down the same route again (with plans to finally order the JLU before Christmas) I decided to grab a 25AH portable lithium pack from ITECHWORLD. It has a built in MPPT charger for solar, 12V from the car or wall charging, a 300W inverter, numerous USB out, wireless charging pad and 5.5mm and 12V out sockets.

Decided it will sit in the back of the Jeep when on the move charging from the 12V socket with the fridge plugged in to the pack, turn off the Jeep and the fridge will run of the battery pack. Get in camp and I can run the projector, charge phones and drone etc without having to run cables from the camper. Perfect for day trips etc with a 100W solar blanket.

Anyway, 6 hours running the fridge so far and looking good, anticipating 20hours with the fridge empty and sitting at 1C. Not the cheapest option but very convenient :) EDIT *** After 20 hours I stopped the test, battery was at 60% and was obviously doing it's job, figured no need to draw it down unnecessarily :) guessing under these condition 35 hrs is around the safe maximum EDIT***

3211