Finally finished detailing the engine compartment after about 3 months worth of work. I've even got the engine block back down to the original black paint.

Now, if I can only figure out how to paint the axles without getting overspray on everything else, I'll have this project at 97% completion of my goal.

 

That is one fine looking engine bay!

 

Took her our for her first REAL stretch under my ownership. Good mix of off-camber washouts, light two tracks, intermediate to heavy trails, mud, hill climbs, and an awesome I-beam bridge over another trail. Really cool park in southern Michigan.

I got to use my winch for the first time, and did about half of their top level trails.

 

pulling the front drive shaft did nothing for my vibes, no idea whats causing it. pinion angles are all good

 

Thanks, it's getting there. Not driving it much anymore helps alot though. Lol!

 

Had the wife wash it.

 

What?! How did you manage that? If I ever mention that to my wife, she just looks at me as if I told her the world is square.

 

Drop the axle. It really is pretty simple. Replace control arm bushings and track bar bushings while you are at it.

 

That looks incredible.

 

I've only had it a few weeks so I've been doing all the fun stuff.

 

'preciate it Van Homan. We all have different goals in mind with our rigs and restoring, along with refining all the major systems, this particular XJ were my two goals. Enjoy your journey.

p.s.

The two most invaluable cleaning/detailing products I use are Meguiar's APC (All Purpose Cleaner) and Meguiar's Hyper-Dressing. Excellent products with diverse uses and neither will damage any metal surfaces like most other harsh cleaners.

 

Replaced my upper radiator hose that was dry, cracked, and pouring out coolant. Order IRO adjustable LCAs to replace my wore out bushings and hopefully cure my death wobble.

 

Just had to do a rad hose the other day.. well, tstat return line.. And I was just about to pull the trigger on some LCA's and springs for the front.. Just couldnt risk being too low on finances for the week... I'm jealous..

 

Attempted to recharge the battery in the Heep. Gave it about 22 hours on the charger and no go starting. Just picked up a new Mega-Tron II group 34 battery. Battery book said 58 but it had a 34 in it, and the other XJ uses a 34, so I decided to keep them common.

 

Replaced the AC Dryer accumulator, compressor, seals, idler pulley and serpentine belt. Blows cool now in this 100F+ weather.