Started my first build

[rbullock]

Thank you DS53652, I’m an amateur trying to do it as best that I can without killing my bank account. I’m hoping to get it all done before July, that’s my goal. Think I will have this half done in a week. Then start on the body. The engine bay needs cleaning and painting. And still thinking about a paint job. We’ll see on that one since it’s something I can’t do. And well she told me to get a hobby!!!

 

[rbullock]

The exhaust manifold came today along with super high temp paint. So I painted it! I did wash It throughly first... I asked her if I could put it in the oven to cure it faster. She said no! Go figure.

 

[rbullock]

Hoping to install the last of this stuff this weekend then move on to the body. We’ll see...! Oh also got my adjustable front track bar today.

 

[rbullock]

I take my hat off to someone that has to replace the exhaust manifold, it was a pain in the butt even with the body off. Chalk it up to just having a bad day...

 

[rbullock]

Okay, I’m calling it done! I have done all that I can with the frame, suspension and motor. Gonna cover it and bring the body over to work on next. Also go and have my tires mounted. Thinking maybe I should put the bumpers on before putting the body back on it. Either way I got time. As long as it’s done by July.

 

[bobthetj03]

Now i understand your track bar choice.

 

[rbullock]

Now i understand your track bar choice.

Really new to the Jeep world. Steinjager products look strong and solid. And apparently I like Red...

 

[rbullock]

Started early this morning. Got Toby Keith blasting to keep me going!

 

[rbullock]

Had to drill or cut all of these bolts out, guess Chrysler never heard of anti- seize?

 

[rbullock]

So I had a frame bolt that had broke. When I cut open the body above the bolt it was obvious it was rusted and needing replacement. I cut the bad spot out and will weld in a new plate.

 

[rbullock]

Made the plate and welded it in, wasn’t difficult. I will drill it out and weld the nut onto it once I know for sure the exact spot! Also cleaned the engine bay as best I could. Fresh mud will cover any spots I missed!

 

[MaloStapalo]

Now i understand your track bar choice.

I had never even heard of that company before. I did laugh at the "trick out package" they have for sale.

https://steinjager.com/shop/Wrangle...vel-Kit-Included-Manual-Transmission-J0030847

 

[rbullock]

I had never even heard of that company before. I did laugh at the "trick out package" they have for sale.

https://steinjager.com/shop/Wrangle...vel-Kit-Included-Manual-Transmission-J0030847

I’m not sure about their “tricked out package” l just looked at it and I get why you laughed. But the steering linkage and trackbars are very heavy duty with quality welds and paint. I hope I made a good choice.

 

[S.McArthur]

I had never even heard of that company before. I did laugh at the "trick out package" they have for sale.
https://steinjager.com/shop/Wrangle...el- Kit-Included-Manual-Transmission-J0030847

(1) beer can holder (fits in the door hinge)
Dude, that's the best additional item they anyone can include in a lift kit. They thought of everything.


@rbullock your jeep is looking awesome. I wish I had the time to tear mine done like that. Keep up the good work!

 

[rbullock]

Malostapalo; thanks for the encouraging comments... think I might have to slow down just a little bit, GF is making comments about lack of time with her......! A man has to set his priorities, I'm sure all of you know what I mean...

 

[rbullock]

So I have decided to do the body in Raptor liner. I have washed and sanded the whole body. Next tape it off and spray it. It’s $150 bucks for the kit and I like how it looks. Thinking a med grey. Everything else is black except the rims.

 

[rbullock]

Well it was a lot of work to prep for paint or I should say Raptor liner. But its ready. Also touch up the fenders, they both had a rust spot the size of a quarter in the same spot. Not to bad for my first time. Guess I should wait and see how it turns out before I brag....

 

[rbullock]

Ok, I got the first coat on. I’m as nervous as an expecting father. Just don’t want to screw it up

 

[DetroitTJ]

Looks great. Is that the Raptorliner brand?

Eventually I’m planning to do the same. Is there any problem with painting the hinges? I’d appreciate any wisdom when it comes to Raptorliner coating your Jeep? I wish my build was moving along as quickly as yours.

 

[rbullock]

DetroitTJ. It is the Raptor brand. I tried to do all the hard spots first like hinges and corners. Force yourself to stay at the same pace, I started rushing and it got streaky. And never stop moving the gun while you are spraying, it will puddle and look different.