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Post by BigSwede on Nov 17, 2003 13:59:27 GMT -5
Having tried several different armor mods, during several trips to Moab, here is what I would spend the $ in order if I had to do it again: 1. Rocker panel sliders (boulder bars, whatever you want to call them). Wonderful peace of mind, puts an end to cringing over every rock, if you bang on the sliders you just  cause that's what they are there for. 2. Calmini rear bumper with integrated hitch receiver. Enormous improvement in departure angle. Hopefully Calmini will make more of them sometime. 3. Some sort of front bumper that improves approach angle. |
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Post by Zaphod on Nov 19, 2003 18:59:20 GMT -5
Just how beat up do bumper bars and rear bumpers get during REASONABLE off-roading?
I ask because I've seen some NICE Troops with factory bumpers doing stuff that I never thought I'd ever do...
At what point do you switch bumpers?
Frankly, I'll probably get them anyway, just because I believe in "be prepared" and because I'm vain enough to worry about looks! Color-matched in white, thanks! ;D
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IsuzuRS
Full Member
"Your not really 4wheelin unless you get it stuck."
Posts: 70
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Post by IsuzuRS on Nov 19, 2003 19:23:32 GMT -5
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Post by BigSwede on Nov 19, 2003 19:40:10 GMT -5
That, of course, is a judgement call. Yes, stock Troopers can do a LOT off road. A few years ago a guy rented a Trooper in Denver, drove to Moab and did a bunch of fairly difficult trails (up to 3.5 rating) without a scratch.
My first two trips to Moab I had stock bumpers and a Hidden Hitch receiver hitch on back. I had 1.5" lift via OME springs.
REAR: I dragged off of a lot of ledges, although the hitch saved my stock bumper from damage.
The Calmini rear bumper with the integrated hitch I got last year raised the lowest point on the rear bumper by maybe 8" (the tow hook is the only thing that drags now). On my 3rd trip to Moab, I was vastly improved in departure angle, RARELY touched in back. Of course, I am more adventurous now, so I still have managed to scrape a little on the corners of the bumper. For example I was able to run Ken's Climb, which I shied away from previously due to a dip at the base that causes long overhang vehicles serious problems.
FRONT: My plastic bumper got scratched up coming off of steep ledges. I went to the ARB this year and did have improved angles in front. Ultimately I took the ARB off because it is really made for a winch and I am not interested in getting a winch. I am going to look for something lighter that offers improved approach angle and doesn't stick out as far in front, maybe from StinkyFab.
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Post by ilikelegs on Nov 20, 2003 13:55:55 GMT -5
Did you go to Poison Spider Mesa Trail in Moab ? Those are bad ass trails. Here are some shots I found the other night on the web of that area.    I am planning to go to Utah over Christmas with the wife. We eill be in the Canyonlands though. Not this place. |
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Post by BigSwede on Nov 20, 2003 14:32:45 GMT -5
Canyonlands is not far from Moab at all. I have run a couple of trails there, including Elephant Hill (highly recommended!).
Yes I did Poison Spider Mesa this year, I have also done:
Steelbender (several times, I was trail leader this year)
Fins n Things (several times)
Kane Creek
Porcupine Rim
Gold Bar Rim (several times)
Hells Revenge
Lions Back
And probably a few others I can't remember
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cause that's what they are there for.
93TrooperRS 130K, Pioneer CD, 4x4(duh) 31" A/Ts, 5spd, 3.2L DOHC 