Voyage of The Black Gypsy

[GP NOIR]

Nice looking Axle.

Thanks! Truss was welded on by Harley at Twisted Off-road and sent out for sandblasting & powder coating.

 

[GP NOIR]

Installing the half doors was straightforward as I’d hope. Now I can drive to Moab with them on and easily pull them off before hitting the trails. Waiting for the upper doors to be shipped.




I know it doesn’t make sense to remove the hardtop and doors to be stored away for the upcoming winter but hey, I drive a Jeep!

 

[GP NOIR]

Got the upper doors today

They still need to be fitted. Ordered a fuel transfer pump to empty the gas tank so I can start installing the tank skid. When that’s in, I’ll start on the rear axle.

 

[GP NOIR]

After siphoning the gas from the tank, I was able to lower the rusted out skid and support the tank with a strap. There was enough dried mud and sand trapped by the skid and tank to almost fill a 5 gallon bucket


Now that the new skid is in

I can start installing the rear axle

 

[GP NOIR]

Got the rear located


Need to get the backing plates back from powder coat to install the brakes and axle shafts.

 

[GP NOIR]

Rear axle is assembled and, with the exception of torquing the control arms & track bar, installation is complete. Need to get new diff cover bolts to install the diff cover and service the diff with gear oil



Got the hydraulic hoses for the ram assist installed on the steering gearbox


Now I’ve got to get the front axle paid for so I can install it and get my Jeep back on the trail. It’s been too long!

 

[GP NOIR]

Front axle is ready for pickup! Installed the hydraulic ram I bought from @desertrunner awhile back. I’m excited to get Gypsy back on the trail!


Got it hung. The bolt to install the bump stops to the axle were more awkward to tighten than they had any right to be!
Tomorrow I’ll start by installing the springs