This journey has come to a close. There will be more, perhaps not as lengthy. In our haste we missed the South, and much of the East. They will be easier to visit should we have less time available. There is also much to see and do in our own backyard.
The Jeep limped into the driveway and I imagined it would then expire just as the Bluesmobile did to Jake and Elwood Blues. It did not and soldiers on, just a flesh wound, I suppose.
There’s lots I'd like to do to make future trips less taxing on the motor and the body.
1)Exhaust system; by design it sits much lower than it could. The catalytic converter and muffler could be raised as much as 4” keeping them less prone to damage.
2)Mechanical fan needs to be replaced with electric; lighter and less drag on engine.
3)Air box needs modification to allow the engine to breath better.
4)Splash protection added under engine, some creek fording in Colorado brought this point home as evidence of spray/splash was very high in the engine bay.
5)Idiot lights replaced with actual gauges. These lights only alert you to a problem that has already occurred.
6)Modest suspension lift of 1-2”
7)Fabricate winch mount to be hidden behind front bumper.
8)Hard wire on-board air system (currently portable)
9)Dual isolated batteries to allow running electrical accessories/charger without worry
10)Fabricate new rear bumper allowing for better departure angle and 2” receiver for towing.
11)Upgrade headlights. We didn't do much night driving but found driving in our own shadow due to cars behind with brighter lights harrowing.
I am sure there is more, but this is all that comes to mind this late at night. Budget rules the roost now that I am on a fixed income. I suppose I could get another job......nah not yet.
Stay tuned.......
