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  #1  
Old 05-30-2015, 07:07 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Undrstm8ed's 93' Overlanding Truckumentry...

When I first made my purchase, she was a dirty 1993 Ford Ranger XLT with a standard cab, 4.0L Manual trans and 2WD. Virgin shy of the bunk audio gear the previous owner stuff in it. No armrest console, no OEM jack... SOLD as is




The short lived transformation of a street truck turned to a much better and more functional vehicle on several levels. As someone into camping a lot, new places to visit, fishing and firearms, the CA State Militia, a survivalist on an urban or open land aspect; it only made sense that a multi-purpose vehicle and overlanding/expeditionary hobbies would take root. As the project sits now...












Like what you see so far?
> Curious about the process and adventures I take this on?
> Have any questions in regards to the products I use?
> Subscribe to my threads, say hello and let's meet on the trails!



THE PRODUCTS I USE
I can add links to each so you can easily find out more information once I figure out how to create a hyperlink with the item names on here.







FRONT SUSPENSION:
Daystar 2" Leveling kit
Stock 2WD Coils
Bilstein 5100 Shocks



REAR SUSPENSION:
Universal Group HD Leaf Pack (1750lb)
Deaver 10" U-bolts
Bilstein 5100 shocks



ARMOR:
Warn Differential Skid Plate, 8.8 Diff


OVERLAND GEAR:
Flip-Pac shell with options
Shovel
Zippo 4‑in‑1 Woodsman Axe/saw



RECOVERY:
Max Trax Vehicle Extraction device (need a 2nd pair)
Hi-Lift Extreme Jack
Kinetic 30' @2
Kinetic 20' @2
Warn Snatch Blocks @2
Rugged Ridge D-Ring Shackles @4
ARB Quick deflater Air Gauge



WHEELS / TIRES:
17x8.0 02'-05' Ford Explorer AWD Takeoffs
LTS 265/70/17 Hancook Dynapro MT (32" 10 ply tires)
26oz of Ride-On Auto tire sealant/Balancing fluid ea. tire
Bronson 1.25" spacers (front/rear)
Hawk Brake Pads - Frt. LTS HB279Y.594



LIGHTING:
12° North, Ind. hood light kit
12° North, Ind. Camper Shell light kit



MISC:
BoltLock(s) (keeping my gear secure)
Hi Lift curved bumper attachment
Drivetrain fluids
Fire extinguisher (@2 - cab/shell top)
First aid kit
Four (4) NB Solar 240 watt solar panels



PERFORMANCE:
K&N OEM box style filter
Flow Master cat-back w/downturn before axle
NGK Wires Pt# FDZ036
NGK Iridium plugs Pt#TR55IX (or NGK 7164)



INTERIOR:
Samsung Galaxy Tab3 7.0 Flush mounted in dash
OHC (waiting on a Buggman red LED map light)
LED bulb dash white light upgrade (complete)
Q-Forms kick panels (empty)
Audio Control EQL
Phoenix Gold 4ch Amp (75wx4, 300 waats total)



MODS WAITING ON INSTALLATION:
ARB Breather kit (for axle and trans)
Performance Accessories 2" Body Lift Kit
Max Coupler Off-Road Hitch (boxed)



OTHER MODS I AM CONSIDERING:
GPS Equipment — Recommendations would be awesome!
Truck Vault Offset Drawer 6.5 foot Bed Magnum Height
Viair 2.5 gallon onboard air system
Rigid Industries RDS-Series curved 40" - (over windshield)
Rigid Industries 2x10 115° Scene Lights (alley lights)
Rigid Industries E 20" - Flood (above winch on grill hoop)
Rigid Industries SAE Compliant (Driving Light - Frt Bumper)
Rigid Industries SAE Compliant (Fog Light - Frt Bumper)
Rigid Industries Dually - Diffused flush mounted (replace reverse lights)
Rigid Industries Dually - Flood *red* Flush mounted (single dr side rear facing fog light)
TAG Multi-carrier bumper (Receiver hitch style, shackle mts.)
TAG Front bumper (full grill/light hoop, rubber push pads, shackle mounts, Winch mount)
Warn 8000-S
Factor 55 Flatlink and Fairlead
ARB Fridge Freezer 63Qt
Spyder Automotive LED tail lights (93-05 version Smoked, red-clear only, hardwired clears as turn signals with amber LED bulbs)
Finish audio system



NO LONGER RUNNING:
Falken RT-615k


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Last edited by Undrstm8ed; 07-20-2015 at 08:37 PM.
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  #2  
Old 05-30-2015, 07:20 PM
msparks msparks is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Looking good....
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Old 05-30-2015, 07:44 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

So here is the basics and some pics the day I got it and how I got it. I've had it for almost 2 years now:






Now I'm not going to get into the previous direction I was headed with my truck as it was short lived (8 mos as was the life of the Falken RT615K tires I purchased actually) and other priorities and thoughts came to mind along with the fact that even though the 4.0L with a manual trans is fun to play with in traffic, even lowered, high speeds in canyons is likely going to get me killed; I'll stick to the Yami for those days...

So some of the first things it needed was to be cleaned up and shown some love. Previous owner was young with a family of 2 and just used it for a work commuter vehicle which never seen any attention unless something needed to be done.. like registration of tags or something menial. Guy never waxed it or vacuumed it out or nothing it seemed.

It also had an issue where the check engine light would come on any time on the FWY after 60 mph. A simple test and a change of some spark plug wires cured the check engine light issue. So in went the NGK wires and Iridium plugs.

I was pleased to see the truck outside of the audio was basically virgin which was a huge plus for me. So my attention turned to the OEM air filter and box and in went the K&N factory style filter with future mods put aside. CAI kits and others rarely work to do anything other than upset fuel mileage and make noise if not an actual loss of power across the entire power band so, I opted to stay with the OEM box which as I stated will come in handy with the addition of a true snorkel kit (later in the build). I think its actually do for a cleaning to be honest.




While working at the Ford dealer I worked at, I had found a decent deal for a literally like new solid back window on CL and I swapped it out on my lunch break.. okay, so it was an extended lunch break.



Not too long after that the plastic bed liner was for some reason driving me nuts, I think it was because everything from every tree I parked under would be collected in the grooves in the bottom always making the truck look filthier than it really was.. so out that came. Plus at the time Ford had been taking these large grommets in the beds of the F150-450's for running wires or whatever you wanted to use the pass through's for. PArt numbers in the pic for those wanting to attempt this themselves too.








Again... I get lucky and find a small tire shop in Montebello that had a set of 4 take offs from a 2002-2005 Ford Explorer AWD with some tires that should get about 3 more months out of. So I went from the 14" Deer Toe stockies...


To these...


Short while afterwards I had to add the AVS vent Visors too.


I needed to put the tires where they belong as we all know the explorer wheels have a different offset. So a business friend of mine makes any and all types of billet aluminum spacers in several sizes for just about anything. Courtesy of Bryce, I had a set of 1.25" spacers all around.


And surprisingly, it was fun to play in the dirt and trails... Dammmnnit !!

.

Then my attention was directed to the inside. I had yanked out the Alpine deck in favor of flush mounting a Galaxy S Tab3 7.0 in its place with a removable capability.





Now I can make calls from my Tablet and or Skype calls by tethering to my Note III for a WiFi signal. But overall all mapping, Climbmeter, Mobile topographer GPS, 64G card of music, IheartRadio, Pandora, Soundcloud, and even Youtube are all at my disposal. Even Gmail is quick access... Sorry, NONE of that evil FaceBook, twitter shit though. The KOA app for finding camp grounds would probably be more useful back East as Cali doesnt offer too many on the KOA lists for some reason.

Signal is picked up via bluetooth module I added that has an RCA output which go directly into my current Audio Control Processor and then out to my amplifier.



I've since blocked off the old drivers side upper vent, I used an old factory radio slide from the back of the radio and affixed a piece of ABS plastic for some new controls behind the Galaxy Tablet; One being the above Bluetooth for audio streaming from the tablet. and the other is a 12volt powered 7 way USB hub and a couple relays and connections.

Now this will allow me to integrate a laptop inside if need be for convenience of tapping all things. So in this I have a few things powered up on 12 volt accessory with the key;

- Power to the Bluetooth module
- Power to the Tablet
- Aux Power feed for my Note III
- Aux Power feed for the woman's Note III
- A External Passport 1TB HD
- 2 additional USB 2.0 ports (one for Laptop)
- 1 USB 1.1 port (laptop/Mobile printer connection)



All interconnects are Diamond cables from AudioQuest. The line up has changed a little since these cables are older but, the quality of solid silver wires vs cheapy cables has an audible difference.

I will still be using the 3 way Dynaudio setup with a 7" midbass driver in the door, a 3" and a 1" soft dome tweet in the kick panels for mids and highs.

The lower end will be rounded off by three ID8 8" Arc Audio subwoofers; same as their XDi 5 channel amplifier (XDi850.5 - all @ 4ohms its 85w x 4 / 400w x 1). All processed thru passive and active crossovers and an Audio Control unit to dial it in (since it already has a built in line driver and noise gate). Just other things are on the priority list before I start swiping the plastic for more audio gear so all of the new audio gear is on back burner.

I am hoping with the right tweaking and tuning without getting in the way of other electrical upgrades due to noise from extra lighting needs which are yet to come as well. That will be a huge concern.

----------


Quote:
Originally Posted by msparks View Post
Looking good....
Thanks.. Ill be happier getting the Autocross tires off and something that allows me to run over small trees and peel gods creatures from between the tread blocks.. LMAO

.
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Last edited by Undrstm8ed; 06-11-2015 at 10:39 AM.
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  #4  
Old 05-30-2015, 08:37 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

I have in the interior added other things such as the coveted OHC. Still havent mounted the thermostat piece outside where it belongs. Honestly because I had planned on using it in a amp rack to tell me the temp of the amps for fan control in a OEM location. I thought it would be not only effective but pretty trick. The headliner needs replacing badly.. I'm sure I seen it on Rock Auto pretty cheap compared to a rewrapped one here...





Headliner also retains the original Dome lamp as well as the OHC making the interior WELL lit. May have to contact Buggman for a red LED piece for that map lighting tho... Be better for the night vision and less obvious while out on the trails or road at night.

I think the only thing wrong with the original dome light is its lack of light or shadow light on the floor board areas but other than that. I can see everything i need absolutely fine and I haven't done the LED upgrades in there yet. Just the lower dash functions, ash tray (rattling coin holder), and glove box...



Rather than cut and paste already existing thread info into another post, Ill provide the link for the heavy duty RLS swap.

Heavy Duty Leaf Spring Swap From Stock 93/97 Rangers...

The day after that I did the front leveling kit. To be honest I didnt really want a huge lift for my needs. So the leveling kit in the front, HD springs in the rear, 2" body lift which I have yet to install until next week.





BTW, the springs on the right are brand new, but they are NOT for a 4.0L Ranger in fact they were shorter. The Ones I R&R'd were at 14 5/16" and the new ones came in at 13 7/8" and the coils do look differently loaded. Anyone that can identify them for their proper application the info would be appreciated. Meanwhile since they are not for my application. They are up for sale if someone needs/wants a set of new springs.




The LT 265/70/17 Hankook Dynapro MT, which just came in today from my tire source. I'll have the clearance I need. If I feel it necessary to increase it, well like all things I guess I'll use the new information and change my thoughts and plans to another system design.










Hopefully by that time I will have collected all the things necessary for a complete SAS swap up front anyways and of course that will change a few things as well.

-----------------------

I do seem to keep finding great opportunities however...

$200 steal on a 93 4.0L OHC with 103K on the clock from a Craigslist ad... I threw the guy an extra $50 bones to take the ad down immediately until I could arrange a time to come pick it up from him. More on this topic later as I will likely add the build thread into a separate thread and just link it to here.






Even picked up a set of Hedman headers..



As of now, tearing down the engine to bare block. I will likely have to do all I can with chemical cleaning and wire/tooth brushes as I seem to recall reading media blasting these blocks doesnt fair well and I forget why that was said. But I am almost positive I picked up that tid-bit from Tom Morano racing page.

SO I'll take the safe route and go through and chase all holes and studs to make sure all threads are intact. Still want to clean up some of the Water/Oil galleys to make sure there is always good flow. Keeping the engine at an optimum temperature at all times and not having to worry about any oil or coolant issues is a paramount concern.

The overall outcome of the engine will be mostly kept stock for simplicity, ease of parts, and reliability conditions. If for whatever reason I had to pull it into a Ford dealership or a shop anywhere out on the road. I dont want something such as a oddball part making it difficult to repair or costly either. Another reason why I've made some of the choices I have in this build.


My biggest expense has been the Flip-Pac.. Here is a flip open tent that has many possibilities. Depending on the need I can sleep as many as 6 in my truck if I needed too. A general combo of 4 adults and two kids or 5 adults, 2 adults and a kid, or as it will usually be; Just enough room for a player and a freak... Ok, I thought it be funny.

Fine just me and the woman most likely..

The cool factor is its set up in 30 seconds.. NO lie. (see video)





Also Added my Hi-Lift jack in a place I felt would benefit me the most despite the weird looks I get now. Jeep owners eyes get about the size of Buick hubcaps staring at my hood mount. Again, no sense double posting so I'll share my write up on that here:

Hi lift Jack Placement: random hole drilling NOT for the Squeemish! Pic heavy


.
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Last edited by Undrstm8ed; 06-11-2015 at 10:45 AM.
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Old 05-30-2015, 09:17 PM
shawn_house102 shawn_house102 is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Subbed!!
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Old 05-30-2015, 11:08 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Quote:
Originally Posted by shawn_house102 View Post
Subbed!!
Thanks for following along
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Old 05-30-2015, 11:12 PM
shawn_house102 shawn_house102 is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

What did you have to do to get them explorer rims to fit?
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Old 05-30-2015, 11:29 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Truthfully the front wheel bearing cap protruded through the center cap area and for a couple weeks I rolled without center caps up front.

Added 1.25" wheel spacers, fit perfect and the center caps were placed in their home. Rears fit great shy of the original offset. Explorers have wider axles.
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Old 05-31-2015, 04:02 AM
msparks msparks is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Keep them coming, I'll be watching...Nice write up...
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Old 05-31-2015, 08:31 AM
shawn_house102 shawn_house102 is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Quote:
Originally Posted by Undrstm8ed View Post
Truthfully the front wheel bearing cap protruded through the center cap area and for a couple weeks I rolled without center caps up front.

Added 1.25" wheel spacers, fit perfect and the center caps were placed in their home. Rears fit great shy of the original offset. Explorers have wider axles.
So there pretty much direct bolt on?
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Old 05-31-2015, 08:47 AM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Yes, same bolt pattern just the offset is different.. 4x4 will have a larger hubcentric ring and hub but for 2WD.. works good. Same with JEEP wheels.
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Old 06-01-2015, 03:06 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

The 10 FlipPac Freedoms:

* FREEDOM to ignore vacation hotel worries - and bills
* FREEDOM to live comfortably and easily on the road or at the end of the hardest technical trail
* FREEDOM to decide and then go - straight away - for a day, a week, or a month+
* FREEDOM to drive without tiresome towing or technical trail restrictions
* FREEDOM to tour - from the beach or the desert to the mountains and lands abroad - and take all the comforts of home with you
* FREEDOM to take advantage of those spare moments - like those crisp, clear winter days or hot sticky thermometer pushing ones - when owners of other trucks stay at home
* FREEDOM to eat what you like, when you like and cooked how you like it
* FREEDOM to sleep - comfortable and secure up high - at the end of an exciting day
* FREEDOM to enjoy outdoor interests - fishing, shooting, climbing, hiking, relaxing - or just exploring that old road to see where it goes and camp when you get there!
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Last edited by Undrstm8ed; 06-11-2015 at 10:57 AM.
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Old 06-04-2015, 10:04 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

Made some changes to the original post... Long tired day, I'll re-proof read it tomorrow and make any necessary corrections.. lol

Meanwhile, new rubbers are on... More pics this weekend in between FTX

teaser: 32"

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Old 06-07-2015, 04:47 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

So since the OEM spare tire is at this point useless to me, and I am still awaiting a pair of the stock rims to come in that I ordered (out of 4 new rims), for the ability to have a full sized spare.

On the TAG multi-carrier rear bumper, for both the truck and on the extra Ranger bed trailer project (coming soon) also will have a TAG Multi carrier rear bumper to match. Also along with matching wheels & tires on the trailer itself (Hancook 32" Dynapros). So today the spare was ejected...

The spare tire area is roughly about 25" fully in diameter. I have noticed that with some creative calculations this is where I am going to make my watertight steel enclosure to house two additional group 65 Exide AGM batteries. This will have its own venting system so battery gasses don't build up inside and create an unwanted incident on the trail or the road. The two additional batteries are to handle the power demands of winching and added lighting demands. Considering a second winch for the rear, this will be a much needed thing if I should ever require using both at the same time.

The addition in the near future of an ARB refrigerator (cause of its adequate size and ridiculous minimal draw rates), some extra interior needs of the Flip-Pac, and If I do some colder climate camping I can plug in the electric blanket too. With a draw rate of just under 3 amps, i could easily run the blanket, both sides well over 9 hrs and still start the truck the next day and not notice the drain at all.. Of course the lil woman will be all up for that kind of a feature.

As you can see by the following photos, the 110lbs of extra weight will be evenly distributed and maintaining the tilt feature for access still. Again this will be a separate write up I will add (here).








1/0 wire routing is not my favorite thing to do either but it will certainly compliment the 300 amp Alternator addition too. That isnt a cost factor you should read standing up BTW.. ouch
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Last edited by Undrstm8ed; 06-11-2015 at 11:27 AM.
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Old 06-07-2015, 05:12 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Undrstm8ed's 93' XLT Overlanding build...

This will make the ease of routing for the power station needs of the DC/AC Inverter for many things.




Still need to find the upgrades for the Flip-Pac lighting housings. This offers a replacement housing that has a white and red LED bulb set up in both fixtures and because the housings are larger as you can see in this photo.


You can never have too many power options, especially for charging phones and tablets. I'll be able to add two lighter plug outlets in each fixture, one of which I'll swap out with a dual USB charger plug piece in each fixture with a switch for turning this plug off as it has its own draw to it.
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Last edited by Undrstm8ed; 06-11-2015 at 10:30 AM.
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