this sucks. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Ummm, not quite.



You just can't get the wheel base long enough on the 2 doors. We thought about dragging the axle forward, but it just wouldn't be enough with where I want to wheel.

I just don't think the Raider frame would hold up to the towing torture I want to put it through either. I'll need a 23' trailer to get my wife out to the property I want to homestead on if I want her to get out at all. I don't want to be "camping" by myself for the rest of my life once the kid leaves! I also can't have a dedicated tow rig.

Anyway, I'm going to be happy with what I've got going. Keep going on yours. It's a cool deal!

Curtis, I'm sorry, man. This actually means a lot coming from you. I think you'll be happy with the replacement, though. It was made in the year I was born, and I'm excited about it!

Here's the new canvas. After this pic, the thread probably deserves to get axed, but I hope it stays for a bit...

I approve!!

Jon,

I had advice from a buddy once that you should concentrate on one truck. I really tried to follow his mantra, he had a really cool Commando. I noticed that as he aged, now he has a Commando, a honkin' Suburban, and a weekend warrior trailer. Therefore, I returned to my original goals.

I think many folks on this board understand about design limitations. I've made my red Raider into a mini-service truck, complete now with running water, storage boxes, and a beefy tow hitch. However, when tasked with hauling about 1500 pounds of rock or aggregate samples, is my Raider the right vehicle? No. Inadequate brakes, lack of oomph! Kills the suspension, and is outside the original intent of the vehicle. So, I bought a 1-ton service truck. Something designed for the work. The Mitsus weren't supposed to be V8 powered super-duper 40" equipped monsters.

I like the FJ 40, definitely a good choice for a canvas switch. Despite my fondness of the Mitsu products, if Toyota offered the 70-series pickup, ala Australia DM, I would likely sell off everything to get the 4.5L 32-valve diesel V8, 5-speed trans, and a 1-ton rating in a vehicle the size of a Gen II Montero. Plus, I'd have the BIG axles, 4W disc brakes, etc. The LC70 would have enough power for 35-37"ers, and a small service bed.
Toyota LC70

Or, an extremely fixed up '03/'04 Ford Ranger FX4 Level II with Dixon Bros front suspension, lots of wheel travel, and the aforementioned service body, and some wild white/forestry truck green paint scheme.
Dixon Bros. Ranger

Look out!

Cheers,
Russell <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />