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ZUKIWORLD Discussion Forum => Suzuki 4x4 Forum => Topic started by: kreator on December 27, 2011, 10:39:53 AM

Title: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on December 27, 2011, 10:39:53 AM
All new front strut lift shocks have been developed and testing is about complete and production will start next week . The struts are fox coil air shock base that has been modified for the the front end .there is some mods required and all parts will be supplied .
The advantage of this design is that you have three ways of adjusting the struts for desired ride height and softness of the ride , 1 / nitrogen pressure , 2 / top coil spring and 3 / bottom coil spring . The shock/strut has the ability of valve adjusting for compression and rebound .
One more thing that makes nice is that they are REBUILDABLE .
PICS AND PRICES TO BE AVAILABLE SOON.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: DonD on December 27, 2011, 11:41:40 AM
Excellent !
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on December 27, 2011, 03:29:33 PM
Looking forward to seeing them. Alternitives to the Big 2  ( OME/Bilstein) are always a good thing.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on December 29, 2011, 02:30:22 PM
HERE ARE SOME PICS OF THE NEW LONG TRAVEL FRONT STRUTS
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: fordem on December 29, 2011, 05:09:16 PM
Is there a bearing in there somewhere or does the steering depend on the strut/shock piston rod rotating within the body of the strut/shock?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on December 29, 2011, 05:20:36 PM
the shocks have bushings in them and can turn freeley
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: swanson on December 29, 2011, 07:15:44 PM
wow these look awesome! how much will they run? i might have to get a set when you start selling them.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: BRD HNTR on December 30, 2011, 12:30:50 AM
Do we need to run the Brace from one strut to the other?  Further spec's and price would be nice. 

I hope these are available soon, because new struts are part of the plans for present upgrades.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on December 30, 2011, 04:33:02 AM
Do these eliminate the standard coils in favor of coil overs? If so I imagine various rates are available? I already have a strut brace, do we need to purchase yours as part of the kit? Price?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Jebers53 on December 30, 2011, 05:55:30 AM
Do we need to run the Brace from one strut to the other?  Further spec's and price would be nice. 

I hope these are available soon, because new struts are part of the plans for present upgrades.
X2
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on December 30, 2011, 09:48:33 AM
These are pics of Phase 1 and there is 2 more phases in test and then by spring the super off road system will be through testing .
 Yes you need to run either my strut brace or something to help the top strut mount to insure that they dont bend and the structure stays in place .
 Yes this system dose eliminate the stock upper spring mount and  some fabrication is required . With the ability to increase spring rate you can plan for the extra weight of the addition of a nice winch and bumper ,by having adjustabilty of the springs you can lower the ride height prior to adding the winch and bumper . It was time to make the the lift kits more user friendly and have rebuildable struts.
 For the Phase 1 kit the base price is as listed
 Front only $1225
 Rear only  $255
 total        $1480 plus shipping.
 And if you want to use a strut brace that you already have thats ok as long as long it is strong enough to support the strut towers and the price will change . thanks for looking ,happy wheeling .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Rhinoman on December 30, 2011, 03:10:21 PM
How much travel is there on the strut?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on December 30, 2011, 03:24:56 PM
I dont think that I measured it but I think its about 6 1/2" ? maybe more
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: 96sport on January 01, 2012, 10:32:43 PM
is the shaft bushing in the fox shock the same as a standard fox shock?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on January 02, 2012, 08:49:40 AM
I believe that they are the same that they put in the struts on the new Toyota 4x4
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Mikerpm4x4 on January 02, 2012, 11:20:07 AM
I believe that they are the same that they put in the struts on the new Toyota 4x4

 Toyota does not have a side load that Trackicks do. I dont see how this setup could hold up long term.  Be sure to get some real testing in before you start selling. What kind of warrantee will be on this product?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Mikerpm4x4 on January 02, 2012, 11:34:39 AM
Another think to keep in mind is the strut tower will need to be braced very well. It wasnt designed to support the weight of the vehicle.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on January 02, 2012, 01:04:21 PM
MY fOX SHOCK REP HAS SEEN THE TRACKER AND SAID IT WAS OVER KILL ON THE SHOCK AND HAD NOW PROBLEM WITH IT.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: ZookPower on January 03, 2012, 06:22:17 AM
This looks like it could be promising, without a upper control arm all of the braking force is transferred through the strut into the strut tower. Looking at the stock struts and what you have I don't see why this system couldn't take the abuse. 

How much lift adjust ability are we talking on the "regular" set up ? 3-5" ?

I would be more concerned, (as others have pointed out) about the shock towers supporting the weight of the vehicle. 

How will these be sold ?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: talonxracer on January 03, 2012, 06:55:51 AM
Interesting setup, One of my concerns would be the lower mount that pushs the strut towards the frame away from the knuckle/strut centerline, that is alot of torque applied to the upper mount when the tires are turned full lock as the struts would no longer be verticle, the bottom of the strut will swing in fairly large arc.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on January 03, 2012, 09:05:20 AM
THE FIRST KIT IS A 3 INCH LIFT AND THE 2ND IS 4 1/2 INCH AND ITS BEING TESTED KNOW . I WILL BE OFFERING IT IN PHASES .
THE STRUT CENTER LINES HAVE NOT CHANGE FROM STOCK AT 1 3/4 CENTERS FROM CENTER OF SHAFT TO CENTER OF MOUNTING HOLES
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: 96sport on January 05, 2012, 05:37:30 PM
lets see some more pics! any action shots?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: redneck78 on January 07, 2012, 07:54:58 PM
Can't wait to see these in some action shots... I tried to hook up with a company to get new suspension and I won't say names but they basically they just gave me nothing took 7 days and I ended up canceling my order which might be good cause so far I like what u got... U guys offering a combo set front and rear?? What u doing about front axles?? Diff drop???
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on January 08, 2012, 11:57:27 AM
We have all the jigs made and are in fabrication ,we will be out wheeling some this next week end and will get some more pics . I am offering front and rear kits , diff drop brackets , front arms and soon custom front drive axles .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Tire Man on January 08, 2012, 09:45:16 PM
Looks good, lets get together and rough it up a bit... I need to get the parts goin for the Turbo-Kick. Glad to see you puttin this out there too... -KB-
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: heiney.5 on January 09, 2012, 01:10:46 PM
Looks like your one of the few who have actually proceeded to make something with this idea....kudos for that.




MY fOX SHOCK REP HAS SEEN THE TRACKER AND SAID IT WAS OVER KILL ON THE SHOCK AND HAD NOW PROBLEM WITH IT.

I'm sure the "shock" is strong enough and coil is plenty strong...but if this quote was directed at Hagen, I believe he wasnt questioning the shock.

Another think to keep in mind is the strut tower will need to be braced very well. It wasnt designed to support the weight of the vehicle.

This will definitely be something to consider, I say at the top of testing kinda thing....I have seen COUNTLESS trackers/sidekick develop extreme negative camber from the stress of just the Strut on the towers....Moving the coil springs will now add all of the weight of the vehicle on that thin original tower.


If your kit doesn't add braces to strengthen these towers, it should be something to think about. Let us know how the testing turns out.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: 96sport on January 16, 2012, 06:46:41 AM
PICS!
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: redneck78 on January 16, 2012, 07:08:30 PM
Wondering how the progress is going with the suspension I can't wait to see
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: zuksofhazzard on January 18, 2012, 10:01:34 AM
Quote
This will definitely be something to consider, I say at the top of testing kinda thing....I have seen COUNTLESS trackers/sidekick develop extreme negative camber from the stress of just the Strut on the towers....Moving the coil springs will now add all of the weight of the vehicle on that thin original tower.


Even more on a Tracker or Sidekick with a body lift. Once they seperate, there isn't too much strength in the strut tower.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Rhinoman on January 20, 2012, 03:40:20 PM
Even more on a Tracker or Sidekick with a body lift. Once they seperate, there isn't too much strength in the strut tower.

There isn't any connection between the body and the strut tower anyway, there is a small gap - that prevents vibs from the chassis coming into the tub. Something would need to be done and I think that would have to involve welding so it wouldn't be a bolt on conversion.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on January 21, 2012, 05:07:27 AM
I would be interested in this as a replacement strut only, keeping the rest of the suspension. Another strut alternative is always a good thing. If it works as well as other Fox products I think it would be a great addition to an already modded front suspension.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: zuksofhazzard on January 21, 2012, 06:28:58 AM
Even more on a Tracker or Sidekick with a body lift. Once they seperate, there isn't too much strength in the strut tower.


There isn't any connection between the body and the strut tower anyway, there is a small gap - that prevents vibs from the chassis coming into the tub. Something would need to be done and I think that would have to involve welding so it wouldn't be a bolt on conversion.


I agree, but they are close enough that it limits the strut tower from moving too much.

Throw on a Body Lift, forget it. The Strut Towers need to be reinforced.

From my experience, when you drive into a tight section that you need to climb, Escalator in Moab, UT, it puts a lot of stress on the strut tower. It is weak, it needs to be strengthend.

Passenger side in the vid.

geo tracker on hell's revenge, escalator moab utah (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-6SRRxscrE#)
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on January 21, 2012, 10:19:57 AM
Yes I can offer just a strut package for 3" or 4 1/2 lifts. I started out with the strut tower brace on and to date i have not found any thing that has failed yet. I have not put lockers in yet to really trash on it . More up dates to come .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: 96sport on January 24, 2012, 10:29:14 PM
more pics!
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: ZookPower on January 25, 2012, 06:10:00 AM
I will also be very interested if you offer this as a strut only package w/ the strut bar you already have.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on February 04, 2012, 09:17:44 AM
Good morning ZW
I tried up loading new pics this morning but had an error come up will try again later , up date to come soon. :)
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on February 12, 2012, 11:59:32 AM
Here is the pics of the IFS and the front ARMS.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: 96sport on February 15, 2012, 06:52:20 AM
lets see some pics of kit installed
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on February 15, 2012, 02:38:52 PM
Nice looking control arms.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: talonxracer on February 15, 2012, 03:52:15 PM
Will this clear the engine/intake on a 16V ?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on February 15, 2012, 04:25:37 PM
Have not tested the cross bar on a 16v yet
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: redneck78 on February 16, 2012, 06:19:33 AM
How about some action shots videos of it's being abused? Would like to see it being pushed to the limits how do the across hold up to the abuse of angle..not bad with drop?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on February 28, 2012, 08:12:51 AM
Good morning ZW , Sorry I have not put new pics up we have moved into a new house out in the woods and been busy, as soon as I find the camera I will put up the pics that I have of the rest of the lift kit and some of the wheeling . My boys and I are going out this weekend and play in the snow so we will take some more pics.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: BRD HNTR on February 28, 2012, 08:27:03 AM
Here is the pics of the IFS and the front ARMS.

(http://www.zukiworld.com/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=34189.0;attach=24304;image)
More information on these would be nice.  Any modifications to A arms?  Are diff brackets drop?  How much drop?  How much $?
Thanks for the work on this.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on February 28, 2012, 08:54:07 AM
The front arms are modified,they would be the equivalent to moving the rear mounting hole out one inch and the spindle one inch forward. The arms in the pic is for my lift kit and they are available for use with coil springs . the IFS mounts are two inch longer and the the other mount not shown is also in the kit. Front arms $275 , IFS $120 .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on February 29, 2012, 06:18:56 PM
When would you be ready to sell a det of those arms and how is the coil located to the arm if I go that way? Thanks
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on March 01, 2012, 08:10:27 AM
the spring perch is in a round tube with spiral  plate base . parts are about a week out , they are at the powder coater . New pics will  be posted when I get them back ;D
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Bigzook on March 01, 2012, 07:54:22 PM
Finally got to see Bob's kit in person. Very nice looking kit. I know if I ever get a kick I will be purchasing the full kit. The coilover struts are very cool. No more spacers and more travel, hell yeah.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: fordem on March 02, 2012, 06:32:42 AM
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on March 02, 2012, 08:23:20 AM
Yes that is at the strut it self.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: fordem on March 02, 2012, 08:38:17 AM
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Bigzook on March 02, 2012, 03:42:18 PM
I may have mis stated that. Bob and I were talking about all kinds of crazy setups.  :P
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on March 03, 2012, 10:18:06 AM
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on March 03, 2012, 10:25:51 AM
On the shorter lift of 3" I had to drop the bottom mount down to limit the travel of the shock so that it would not break cvs, the strut has 8" of travel. The 4 1/2" lift kit has the full travel of the shock . I am tiring to make the front strut mounts to fit both lifts kits.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: fordem on March 03, 2012, 10:46:15 AM
Understood - thanks.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on March 03, 2012, 11:07:24 AM
The best is that there is no spacer at the top of the strut , I hope we can find the camera this week end so I can show the rest of the pics of the kit . MOVING SUCKS !
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Bigzook on March 03, 2012, 09:43:28 PM
Thanks for clearing that up Bob. Feel free to stop by if you want me to take pics for ya. Or gimme a call and I can come down to the shop. I need to talk to you about a future purchase anyway, although you know why I have been so busy lately.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: zukimarine on March 04, 2012, 05:29:27 PM
Bought a Kit from Bob.... Mines next!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on March 04, 2012, 05:38:02 PM
Her is the pics of the rear assembly 1" longer
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: ZookPower on April 13, 2012, 08:44:37 AM
Looks good so far, any updates ? I am still very interested in purchasing the coil-over assembly to use the shocks in place of the stock struts w/ strut bar while leaving the spring to compress on the frame. 

Have you run across any issues while testing ? Ive been checking your website for updated pricing as well.

Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Bigzook on April 15, 2012, 06:31:55 AM
Bob is making a kit for me right now. I am going to keep the struts for now and add the coilovers later. Ill report back as soon as I install it.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on April 15, 2012, 11:49:31 AM
I am offering Fox struts that replace the stock strut but you cant run the the stock coils and coil struts at the same time . I have not had any issues yet with the struts yet and they have almost 8000 mi on them now . You can use the coil strut without the springs so if you are going to up grade later you can and not purchase shocks twice.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: ZookPower on April 16, 2012, 07:17:30 AM
"Fox struts that replace the stock strut" This is what I was trying to say.

Will the strut bar clear the 16 valve ? I could be the test subject  :D

Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on April 16, 2012, 08:58:19 AM
I still have not tried it on a 16v engine yet, they have all been 8v or v6s and soon to be a Audio  kick.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: BRD HNTR on April 16, 2012, 11:16:44 PM
You have them in a V6?  Is it running strut brace/crossover?  Any photo's?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on April 17, 2012, 07:58:53 AM
No I just made the brace for a v6 side kick he is building for his wife. But will have pics.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: blacktrack99 on April 17, 2012, 05:27:27 PM
A Gen II application would be sweet...
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on April 17, 2012, 05:51:55 PM
Have the pieces on the floor to start maken the jigs, there coming
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Bigzook on April 18, 2012, 04:22:22 PM
Hey bob, feel free to call me if you need measurements from the race kick for the strut bar. Also, what we talked about yesterday looks like it's gonna happen. So, we need to talk about spring rates and such.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on April 18, 2012, 07:22:55 PM
I have one to test on it already , I have the jig made that should work for fit up  8)
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on May 31, 2012, 07:45:28 AM
Well after a weekend of some hard and heavy wheeling I broke my first part in 10 months. I took my first 3" kit and streched to 4 1/2 to see what would happen , well I found the week link , where the eyelet screws into the shock shaft at the end of the treads it broke . What I did was to see if some one had one of my 3 " kits and also modified it for more height what would happen and by removing 1 1/2" shaft support and now I now what will happen . Pics to come soon .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: redneck78 on June 20, 2012, 07:37:32 PM
Can't wait to see pic.. And wondering if u ever put a video together of ur set up to the test yet?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Slapdash on June 21, 2012, 07:53:06 AM
Would love to see some pics of the full setup, front and back!  ;D
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: nerby149 on June 21, 2012, 08:05:28 AM
Can you run your front a-arm set up with calmini struts, what would the price be for a-arms and the rear setup.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: nerby149 on June 21, 2012, 08:09:14 AM
sorry meant old man emu struts
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on June 21, 2012, 09:25:41 AM
Can't wait to see pic.. And wondering if u ever put a video together of ur set up to the test yet?
Ya I had my go pro mounted and got it knocked off and drove over it, just got a new go pro for the next wheeling trip.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on June 21, 2012, 09:29:30 AM
sorry meant old man emu struts

Yes I have built the jig to keep the spring in the correct place on the bottom and still moves it out and forward. Are you 3" lift or 4 1/2" ?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on June 21, 2012, 09:40:15 AM
Would love to see some pics of the full setup, front and back!  ;D
I will have full pics of 2 builds soon ,I am doing 1 with 3" lift and fox strut and FOA springs front and rear and  4 1/2 with the complete kit and  video with pics.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: serv on June 21, 2012, 03:56:22 PM
I will wait for your pics bro. 
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on June 29, 2012, 03:36:09 PM
Here is some pics of my 3" strut kit and my 4 1/2" complete lift kits . Pics to be posted tomorrow of kit installations
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on June 29, 2012, 05:36:40 PM
Stuff looks great.  ;D
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: TrakJD on June 30, 2012, 12:24:22 PM
Another think to keep in mind is the strut tower will need to be braced very well. It wasnt designed to support the weight of the vehicle.

Mike,

I see what you mean, but I looked at Trail Tough's slayer kit for trackicks, apparently brent is using the Strut tower as the main position to bolt the shocks to.  I know its a different suspension set up, but would it almost be similar?  I know that if Brent feels that its not safe, he would not go this route.  And I have not heard of a single strut tower collasping using Trail Slayer's kit. 

Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: ROPADOPA on June 30, 2012, 07:50:51 PM
Here is some pics of my 3" strut kit and my 4 1/2" complete lift kits . Pics to be posted tomorrow of kit installations

awesome cant weight for pricing?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on July 02, 2012, 05:37:05 PM
Here is a few updated pics from the build this weekend
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on July 03, 2012, 11:08:09 AM
Here are the high lites of phase II build
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: TrakJD on July 03, 2012, 11:34:45 AM
Nice work!  Im interested in the front kit.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: heiney.5 on July 03, 2012, 11:40:14 AM
....
And I have not heard of a single strut tower collasping using Trail Slayer's kit. 

Shocks and struts are different, and "coil-overs" are even more different. If you look at the trail slayer kit it does not mount a "coil" on the original strut tower, it actually uses the original coil location. The strut tower wasnt originally designed to hold the weight of the vehicle which a coilover will put on it.

A strut brace will help the "horizontal" shifting of the strut towers, but it will not provide additional "strength" to it. If anyone wheels their trackicks hard you will often see the Camber issues that develop from these strut towers bending inward. I have seen it on many....I have added strut braces which slow it down and help, but ultimately these things were not built for hardcore offroading. (hasnt stopped me ;))


From the pictures, I would be very leery to run coil-overs on the original strut towers. Actually I personally would not do so, or let any friends/family, with out further trussing or plating for strength.



I commend kreator for creating and working on this lift kit....we definitely need more vendor support for these rigs.....Hopefully the work continues and adjustments/refinements are made.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Drone637 on July 03, 2012, 02:54:33 PM
While it is a different kit, the Calimini straight axle conversion uses the strut towers to hold a coil over as well.  They also include a strut brace across the engine compartment but then add an internal brace similar to what we did on Project Trouble and the White Rabbit.  Any thoughts of building a brace that slips inside the strut tower?

What did you end up doing for the movement of the lower ball joint on the a-arm?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Shadow on July 03, 2012, 02:58:06 PM
I want some lower arms for my Grand Vitara that will move the axle forward, any plans?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on July 03, 2012, 04:14:02 PM
....
And I have not heard of a single strut tower collasping using Trail Slayer's kit. 

Shocks and struts are different, and "coil-overs" are even more different. If you look at the trail slayer kit it does not mount a "coil" on the original strut tower, it actually uses the original coil location. The strut tower wasnt originally designed to hold the weight of the vehicle which a coilover will put on it.

A strut brace will help the "horizontal" shifting of the strut towers, but it will not provide additional "strength" to it. If anyone wheels their trackicks hard you will often see the Camber issues that develop from these strut towers bending inward. I have seen it on many....I have added strut braces which slow it down and help, but ultimately these things were not built for hardcore offroading. (hasnt stopped me ;))


From the pictures, I would be very leery to run coil-overs on the original strut towers. Actually I personally would not do so, or let any friends/family, with out further trussing or plating for strength.



I commend kreator for creating and working on this lift kit....we definitely need more vendor support for these rigs.....Hopefully the work continues and adjustments/refinements are made.

I have been wheeling this now for over 8 months and not found and flex in the towers . I like in put that helps me make my kit better , the thing that I have found the most is that the towers are differant height and that makes a big differance, and that the engine mounts are differant height between years and changes the cross brace.  I have coil shocked several rigs and not had any more strength in the fabbed towers than the ones in the track/kick. If towers are bending they must be bottoming out real hard. I here all the woes about the struts going bad and it is not the struts fault its the set up and its bottoming out or its topping out and blowing seals.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on July 03, 2012, 04:17:48 PM
While it is a different kit, the Calimini straight axle conversion uses the strut towers to hold a coil over as well.  They also include a strut brace across the engine compartment but then add an internal brace similar to what we did on Project Trouble and the White Rabbit.  Any thoughts of building a brace that slips inside the strut tower?

What did you end up doing for the movement of the lower ball joint on the a-arm?
I moved out and forward and I will be looking at what you had done on project Trouble and White rabbit
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on July 03, 2012, 04:20:26 PM
I want some lower arms for my Grand Vitara that will move the axle forward, any plans?

I have started building the fixtures to do just that , pics will be coming soon .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: TrakJD on July 03, 2012, 07:02:11 PM
....
And I have not heard of a single strut tower collasping using Trail Slayer's kit. 

Shocks and struts are different, and "coil-overs" are even more different. If you look at the trail slayer kit it does not mount a "coil" on the original strut tower, it actually uses the original coil location. The strut tower wasnt originally designed to hold the weight of the vehicle which a coilover will put on it.


I know that the strut towers tends to push back when wheeled hard.  Im just saying that since Brent uses this route for the Trail Slayer's shocks.   And Kreator comes out with a kit that includes Strut brace bar.  I dont see how it can collapse if reinforced with the brace. 

"apparently brent is using the Strut tower as the main position to bolt the shocks to."
This is what I said.  I said didnt say anything about COIL.  :) 
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: heiney.5 on July 04, 2012, 07:51:38 AM
I have been wheeling this now for over 8 months and not found and flex in the towers . I like in put that helps me make my kit better , the thing that I have found the most is that the towers are differant height and that makes a big differance, and that the engine mounts are differant height between years and changes the cross brace. 


That difference is interesting....I never realized this or recognized it....I'm sure it makes a "universal" kit hard to "sell."


...... If towers are bending they must be bottoming out real hard. I here all the woes about the struts going bad and it is not the struts fault its the set up and its bottoming out or its topping out and blowing seals.


I agree with this to an extend. The factory coil has a bumpstop at the frame. So this will prevent the strut tower from getting the full force of a bottoming out.... However there are not limiting straps on the drop side, so alot of times the strut will blow due to it "holding" all the force on droop.....

I think the "main" killer on the towers is the "side-loads." The macpherson strut holds not only upward force but side forces also.... So when you are riding on your side, or when you are climbing an "obstacle" with one front tire all the forces are tranfered to that wheel and that strut tower. In my opinion that is were I see it taking the most abuse with "factory" setup.




I know that the strut towers tends to push back when wheeled hard.  Im just saying that since Brent uses this route for the Trail Slayer's shocks.   And Kreator comes out with a kit that includes Strut brace bar.  I dont see how it can collapse if reinforced with the brace. 

"apparently brent is using the Strut tower as the main position to bolt the shocks to."
This is what I said.  I said didnt say anything about COIL.  :) 


I guess maybe I confused your initial statement.... sorry. I will see if I can clarify my statement.

______________

The phase one kit kreator shows is similar to other kits on the market....and utilize existing coil bucket, and I would trust this to tried and trued... the coil is braced from the factory directly to the frame and has a bumpstop....the picture shown above but also here:
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/heiney5/Misc/phaseone014-sm.jpg)

______________

The trail tough kit does use the strut tower for a shock mount. but also uses the factory coil location to support the weight of the vehicle like the phase one kit kreator shows.
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/heiney5/Misc/trailtough-slayer.jpg)

_____________
The phase two kit changes the whole front layout and is the one I would question the most. I'm not trying to be mean, just it should be realized that alot of force are on the towers ....Not just up/down force but forward/backward/ and left/right.... that and the factory bumpstop is gone so when you do bottom out all the up/down is transferred to the strut tower also, not directly to the frame like the factory. Pictured below, and shown in above posts.

(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff317/heiney5/Misc/phasetwo016-1.jpg)

__________

(at)TrakJD- so if your were talking about the phase one kit....sorry.

The phase two kit is where I question the strength the most.  I would highly suggest ppl to truss and plate the towers if they run this kit.




Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Drone637 on July 04, 2012, 08:13:11 AM
What did you end up doing for the movement of the lower ball joint on the a-arm?
I moved out and forward and I will be looking at what you had done on project Trouble and White rabbit

How far did you end up moving it out on the finished product?  We did 3/4" out and 1.5" forward but I believe you weren't going to go quite that far originally.

Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on July 04, 2012, 09:21:33 AM
What did you end up doing for the movement of the lower ball joint on the a-arm?
I moved out and forward and I will be looking at what you had done on project Trouble and White rabbit

How far did you end up moving it out on the finished product?  We did 3/4" out and 1.5" forward but I believe you weren't going to go quite that far originally.


I moved them like if you moved your rear out 1" and 1" forward .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: TrakJD on July 04, 2012, 10:10:34 AM
Heiny.5-  No you're right.  I didnt realize we were talking about the coilovers.  I was under the impression that we were talking about the stage one where it doesnt eliminate the bumpstop.  Im sure there's a solution by adding bumpstop.  On my old tracker, When i did SAS, I added fishplate on the frame then welded a shock tower.  When you wheel hard, there tends to be couple cracks around where steering box bolts to.  Thats what happened to me.  

For the stage two, fishplates and new strut towers or some serious bracings (kind of like Mike Hagan's rockstar where he used tube from tower to frame.) is in order......  Calmini's SAS kit comes with new strut towers I believe.  

Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: zukimarine on September 10, 2012, 05:37:37 PM
I finally get a chance to drive my sexy bitch zuki to the coast and before I can even leave town the timing chain breaks. good thing it happened before I left town  ;D :o. However....
the ride is so much smoother than in Bob's tracker. I love the way it handles and cant wait till I can drive it around topless next summer  ;D ;D ;D :P :-[ >:D :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: zukimarine on October 08, 2012, 06:09:26 PM
Ok, so after not making it out of town to the coast because of electrical errors..... :'( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( :'( The sexy bitch is up and running again and I love the new suspension.... what a smooth ride... can't wait to get started on the bumpers and exo cage.  ;D Thanks Bob !!!!!!!!!!!!! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Joe Llamahead on October 08, 2012, 07:01:30 PM
Ok, so after not making it out of town to the coast because of electrical errors..... :'( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( :'( The sexy bitch is up and running again and I love the new suspension.... what a smooth ride... can't wait to get started on the bumpers and exo cage.  ;D Thanks Bob !!!!!!!!!!!!! ;D ;D ;D
[/I

Sorry if i missed what you put the kit on ....... Can you post up some pics of your rig?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: zukimarine on October 10, 2012, 09:06:10 PM
Ok, so after not making it out of town to the coast because of electrical errors..... :'( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( :'( The sexy bitch is up and running again and I love the new suspension.... what a smooth ride... can't wait to get started on the bumpers and exo cage.  ;D Thanks Bob !!!!!!!!!!!!! ;D ;D ;D
[/I

Sorry if i missed what you put the kit on ....... Can you post up some pics of your rig?

so posted  :D the pic of the zuki itself is before the lift was put on... will post some of it lifted when I get some taken.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 16, 2012, 08:52:54 PM
what size of shaft is on your shocks aka struts. and on the strut tower bracing and bending. i also thing what is bending towers in is the bumpstops transferring load up through because on stock bump stops they are fully bottomed out way before strut is out of travel.  i`ve bent the bump stop area on control arms numerous times and towers were bending in. i installed hyd bump stops in same location with even more up travel and problem seemed to disappear and i use every bit of travel the stock struts have. just a thought.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on October 17, 2012, 01:57:30 PM
1 1/4" they are modified coil air shocks
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 17, 2012, 07:00:18 PM
thanks, i also tried something similar to this with a different company. they said a 7/8 shaft would work, wrong all i did was bend shafts 
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 17, 2012, 07:31:28 PM
is your setup for sale? if so what all comes with it and how much
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on October 18, 2012, 08:55:02 AM
what lift do you want ,3 or 4 1/2 ? there 3 differant kits available and you can buy any piece you want . so let me know what would you like to start, what year rig do you have ?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 18, 2012, 06:32:56 PM
no more than 3 it is whats left of a 1991 sidekick 4 door lots of mods. lots of pics and videos on my facebook page
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 20, 2012, 12:46:28 PM
what are the different options that are available along with travel and $$.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 20, 2012, 01:11:07 PM
here`s a link to show what i do broke rear axle around the pylon 099 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65L94DQH3O8#ws) 
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: vit down under on October 20, 2012, 03:54:28 PM
u could make a bumpstop  that goes on the close out plate where u cut out the coil seat
i think u need to supply limit straps as well to protect ur nice coilovers
i think u really need to make a brace for the towers. would there be room to go from the strut brace down to the frame rail on the inside and have a ubolt type clamp that goes around the rail. might get away from the tower differences
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on October 20, 2012, 05:47:22 PM
here`s a link to show what i do broke rear axle around the pylon 099 ([url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65L94DQH3O8#ws[/url]) 


That looks like wicked fun, thanks for sharing. Your rig seems to run great and look particularly " airy " meaning pretty much stripped of anything remotely dedicated to comfort  ;D Engine sounds really healthy too, obviously not stock. It lights up them rear tires seemingly at will. Is it 2wd only?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 21, 2012, 03:49:00 AM
no it`s 4wd broke a rear axle going around pylon on that there run only thing of comfort inside is a beard suspension seat (worth it`s weight in gold) it puts out about 320 hp to the wheels. just need more front suspension .has hyd. bump stops at every corner and is an automatic everything moved back about 2 feet( motor transmission and transfercase).

Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on October 21, 2012, 04:10:20 AM
Got any pics of the engine and drive train to post up?
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 21, 2012, 12:43:42 PM
see what i can do where do i post them sort of a topic jump don`t want to do that
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: bentparts on October 21, 2012, 02:14:49 PM
Just start a new thread in " Mods / Performance." Mighty polite of you  ;)
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 22, 2012, 01:11:13 PM
okay i did that any questions just shoot
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 22, 2012, 02:51:31 PM
Kreator
 what are the 3 different kits that you have along with details
thanks
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Bigzook on October 22, 2012, 04:08:24 PM
That rig looks like a handfull, but alot of fun. I can see why you roke an axle. I broke one in my race kick with a stock motor and 30" tires.
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: plumcrazy2 on October 22, 2012, 04:15:04 PM
thanks. not real bad most of time but after that axle broke (2nd one in 5 years) it was a real workout. was some glad to have my quick steer then.but it was a real handful
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: zukimarine on November 05, 2012, 02:19:27 PM
Had a great time at Browns camp with the guys and Bree from MVC. Definently not missing out again !!!!!
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: kreator on July 11, 2015, 11:40:52 AM
Just a refresher , still working on new lifts .
Title: Re: NEW FRONT STRUTS TRACKER/SIDEKICK
Post by: Ridjobradi on July 11, 2015, 08:14:36 PM
I am still interested in the Sport setup.

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