Search and Rescue H3 Alpha build

[Cowboy]

Just came across this build thread. Outstanding job! I really like that your humble enough to say "well, that didn't work". Thanks for all the pictures and web links as well. It really makes it easier for us to reproduce some great ideas.

Seriously, thanks for all the extra work to create this build thread. I got some great ideas and have some questions.

Suggestions; roof top tent < I put a quick disconnect harness and installed a in line lamp switch to a sticky back LED strip (west marine). Now I've got tent lighting

I would like to know more about the 4 link idea for the rear. I have an H3T and I do pull a trailer a lot. But it sounds like a doable upgrade. Your thoughts?

Mitch


Can't make it through the day? Back up, and get a run at it!

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

I bounced around a lot on the idea of roof-top-power, in the end batteries were simply easier. On that vein, I've sold the RTT and I'm building an offroad trailer to tow behind the rigs in the family photo.

I think copy the rear suspension from a 67-72 Chevrolet pickup. I think it would ride a lot better and handle better. by way of comparison, drive a Chevy pickup of that vintage and drive anything newer.... it's pretty amazing how much better the old truck rides. Add to that the desert racers long-travel suspension is, effectively, the same suspension. I think the only real decision would be whether a triangulated 4 link or a panhard bar. With the panhard bar, the axle moves side-to-side in the arc of the track rod and that could create some interesting feelings inside on a long-travel suspension. That said, the desert guys have solutions to that which you may wish to copy. The benefit of long-arm vs. 4 link is you can get longer-travel without the wheelbase issue you get from a 4 link..... that is, a linked suspension shortens and lengthens the suspension as you turn thus inducing rear-steer. On race cars, that's actually a huge advantage, on a short-wheelbase, long-travel 4x4 that can make you feel it's unstable because as you turn, the inside wheelbase shortens and the outside wheelbase lengthens....

and a secondary suspension trick for the long-arm suspension is a watts linkage.... but it has its own challenges as well.

 

[4speedfunk]

4-linking an H3 rear suspension? Never. Hell, it's the only thing on the H3 that GM got right! -lol
A 4-link rear is not really "tow-friendly" plus the fuel tank is totally in the way....with no real option to relocate it. The words "long-travel" and "tow" don't belong in the same conversation.
You should beef the stock leaf rig. I did a SAS/SOA on a T last year and I got up close and personal with an airbag system. This is a great solution to improving the towing characteristics. The bags used Daystar cradles so they were not directly connected to the axle, and this allows them to disconnect at full droop. Coupled with disco sway bar links...they give you all the travel you need without giving up towing prowess.

 

[Cowboy]

I bounced around a lot on the idea of roof-top-power, in the end batteries were simply easier. On that vein, I've sold the RTT and I'm building an offroad trailer to tow behind the rigs in the family photo.

I think copy the rear suspension from a 67-72 Chevrolet pickup. I think it would ride a lot better and handle better. by way of comparison, drive a Chevy pickup of that vintage and drive anything newer.... it's pretty amazing how much better the old truck rides. Add to that the desert racers long-travel suspension is, effectively, the same suspension. I think the only real decision would be whether a triangulated 4 link or a panhard bar. With the panhard bar, the axle moves side-to-side in the arc of the track rod and that could create some interesting feelings inside on a long-travel suspension. That said, the desert guys have solutions to that which you may wish to copy. The benefit of long-arm vs. 4 link is you can get longer-travel without the wheelbase issue you get from a 4 link..... that is, a linked suspension shortens and lengthens the suspension as you turn thus inducing rear-steer. On race cars, that's actually a huge advantage, on a short-wheelbase, long-travel 4x4 that can make you feel it's unstable because as you turn, the inside wheelbase shortens and the outside wheelbase lengthens....

and a secondary suspension trick for the long-arm suspension is a watts linkage.... but it has its own challenges as well.

Because of the T, I was able to build a rack that slide into tie down channel. I put a 4 pin trailer harness on my roof and was able to put a cigarette lighter port in the back (for fridge), a cargo light tied into bed light, a third brake light and lighting for the tent.

Dude is right about fuel cell. Would have to build three link style. I don't think it's gonna work with a trailer. Love the idea though.

I am building an off road trailer now. The roof top tent rack will slide into top of trailer. I am interested in your trailer ideas. FYI, I found a 30 gallon fresh water tank that is 6" tall and 24" wide and 54" long. It keeps the weight low in build. http://www.vintagetrailersupply.com/Airstream-30-Gallon-Flat-Water-Tank-1968-71-p/vts-1004.htm




Can't make it through the day? Back up, and get a run at it!

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

I think 4speed has valid points - however, I've hauled an awful lot with my 72 Chevy pickup and I honestly think it tows better then leaf springs - best of all you don't get the axle wrap issue with higher hp builds.

As for the tank - there's a huge spot where the muffler and charcoal canister live that would be a great place for a fuel tank. With all that said, I have several builds before I ever do anything with my H3 - and on top of this Carl Janz (of Super Jeep fame) is really leading a cheer that would see 2 1/2 ton portal axles and something in a moderate 60" tire under it.... there is a LONG outside chance that I get to do the build and go to Iceland with it.... we'll see, I think I've better odds at winning the megabux and funding it myself - but those who are behind this seem to think it's going to happen. If so, I'm sure I'll post on here as it goes along. If that's the case, it'll be leaf sprung on both ends.

My trailer is going to be an offroad, but one you stay inside. I'm using parts from an old camper I own to put it together (sink, heater, etc) and it has a water tank that I'll reuse. The dimensions are going to be around 6'x12' and fully self contained...

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

http://www.rakuten.com/prod/oem-259...r&adid=29963&gclid=CKa1zLP9jc8CFQqGfgodK0gAig

the radiator.... $145, it actually is running cooler. Before it'd go up about 1 needle width more then centered at 100* with the a/c on in traffic (a bit more on the trail, but apples to apples this isn't that) - now it's about 1 needle width lower. Should I really need to get on cooling, I'd run an oil cooler... but at this point, there's no point.

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

this gives me ideas

carry on

 

[scoreh3]

That would make a bad ass H3 bumper .

 

[4speedfunk]

Tell me about it....

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[SuperBuickGuy]

yeah, that but with holes....

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

Heart says "mud tires" brain says "all terrains" ... wallet says never again Kuhmo. 30k miles and they're done. I'd like something that wears like iron but in a mud terrain... cooper, dunlop, kelly...

 

[amrg]

I have the Cooper AT3 and have 65K miles on them. Probably have another 30K left but will probably change them next winter as the tires would be 5 1/2 years old and they started to show signs of drying

 

[GreatDaneHummer]

I am a fan of the new Pitbull PBX A/T Hardcore LT Radials. I have sold 2 sets of them now and I will actually switch over to them after my Pitbull Rockers are dead. I don't sell the new Cooper SST Pro tires but I am also a huge fan of them.

 

[edlavallee]

So, what'd ya get?

Heart says "mud tires" brain says "all terrains" ... wallet says never again Kuhmo. 30k miles and they're done. I'd like something that wears like iron but in a mud terrain... cooper, dunlop, kelly...

Thanks for this entire thread... it's great reading and inspirational for this Hummer owner.

Curious what you ended up getting as replacements... Also, what wheels do you have? I've been combing the thread for that but I was not able to find it.

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

Haven't yet

the wheels are Racelines - I don't think they make the specific one anymore

 

[Panzer07]

MTRZ wranglers for the win

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[RamRod]

MTRZ wranglers for the win

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I HATED mine, so happy once I got my KO2's mounted never going with a mud tire again

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[SuperBuickGuy]

I tried on my chains that are supposed to fit up to a 33x12 tire and they fit on my 35s (well, 34.3x12.5).... I'm going with all-terrain tires in a 35 and if it gets deep, I'll put the chains on.... plus, at this point, the H3 is more likely to be hauling the 4x4 then being the 4x4.

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

So I finally decided on tires. BFG KO AT. I hated the thought of AT tires, but I think the increased comfort, load carrying capability and (hopefully) better fuel economy will make the pill a bit less bitter. It also helped that I paid about what I paid for my Kuhmos (900 out the door) for a tire that will last 50% longer. This also fits within my long term plan to really make a monster out of this once it's no longer my DD (54s, duramax diesel, one-tons) at 200k - it's at 143k now.

 

[jbrand11]

So I finally decided on tires. BFG KO AT. I hated the thought of AT tires, but I think the increased comfort, load carrying capability and (hopefully) better fuel economy will make the pill a bit less bitter. It also helped that I paid about what I paid for my Kuhmos (900 out the door) for a tire that will last 50% longer. This also fits within my long term plan to really make a monster out of this once it's no longer my DD (54s, duramax diesel, one-tons) at 200k - it's at 143k now.

You're a mad man but I love your builds!

 

[Peep]

How is the ride and noise from the Pitbull PBX A/T?

 

[RamRod]

Original K/O's or the new K/O 2's

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[GreatDaneHummer]

I am used to driving with super swampers in the past and now Pitbull Rockers so when I ran a set of the A/T's they where so low on noise I noticed more rattles in my truck. The ride is smooth without the vibration you get from more aggressive tire combos. I like them alot; my only complaint is they only come in 35" tires. I wish they came in 33's for other vehicles.

How is the ride and noise from the Pitbull PBX A/T?

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

Ko 2

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

minor update.... new reverse lights... car wash knocked one off - as it was already rusting (the bracket) to dust, I upgraded