Quote:
Originally Posted by sperry
Nice box!
Skip the exo cage. Sure, they're functional, but damn they ruin the look of anything. If you really need that sort of functionality, just build a tube frame rig from scratch.
Also, I never noticed there are long and short versions of the Montero. Are the non-sport versions just rare, or am I just totally non observant?
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The 1st gens were boxy, weren't they? There are a lot of 1st gen SWB's running around, some of them are labeled as Dodge Raiders.
Actually, I'm not envisioning a complete exo cage, but because there will be side sliders below the doors and solid f&r bumpers there is no reason to not run tubing along the quarter panels. Because I want a full-length top tray, there is also no reason to not run smaller-diameter tubing up the A, C, and D pillars to the rack frame. That will increase stiffness and protection by a LOT, because we will weld tab bolt points to the body itself. It also allows for additional mounting points for gear in the rear if done correctly. It would be done in a modular fashion, allowing the upper portion to be removed separately, etc etc.
I took a look at a full tube-frame rig that they are finishing in the shop right now, it looks sick and bombproof. However, I still want a vehicle that I would travel a long way in, not just a Mad Max assault machine.
This is very close to my concept, actually, I found it in the Expedition Rigs thread on Pirate:
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showp...60&postcount=5