Comanche Fun-Runner (LS, Coilovers, Beams...)

[ghetdjc320]

1 hour ago, Comanche SS said:

Been driving and enjoying the Comanche lately, there isn't really anywhere to take a 2wd jeep where I moved to, so it's going to be a street and show truck until I get the 4x4 going

 

 

And on that note, I guess my winter project is decided for me. 

 

Decided to bust out the TTB axles and start cleaning them up. Just wire brushed a printed for now. There will be a ton of fit up, off and on, and sliding along the ground until these are final mounted, at which time I'll finish in black of course.

IIRC Disney OK had some 2wd prerunner type stuff in some areas. Rush springs in Jane MO is also a great park and has a little bit of everything. Project is looking good 

[Comanche SS]

Just stopping in for an update...

Been driving the trucks on the weekends here and there while I can. Soon enough the snow will be here and itll be put away until after new years. 

It is a menace on the streets, first is useless, second is almost useless, third finally gets some traction.

But the 3.07 gearing needs to go, fourth gear will do 80MPH at 2200ish RPM. 5th isnt really achievable.

Planning to go with 4.56 gears as this truck will probably end up on 35s at least, if not 37s.

Have been dragging my feet, thinking I wouldnt be keeping the Dana 44 in the rear, but it is honestly doing just fine. Even the 250K mile LSD still locks both tires together with all 550+ HP.

It feels really good to have some miles on this truck, after years of it having issues with the LS, this engine in it now is strong and healthy. I would argue this much power is too much, I don't trust anyone to drive it, but it is a ton of fun lighting up 33's like its nothing. 

[Comanche SS]

Got my 35" beadlocks swapped onto the rig this weekend. 

 

Looks even better.

 

Still roasts them with ease in 1st and 2nd

[Comanche SS]

I'm sure it has to do with the 3.07:1 axle ratio, but also the fact these are newer, nicer quality tires....As I drive it more, the second gear pulls are getting more and more manageable to stay in throttle and not spin. Which is nice. First gear I fear will never hold traction.

I spent some time cleaning the truck in the hour of sunshine I had left on my last vacation day of 2024.

Was a good year for the Comanche, better than the last few for sure, it got some good road miles, a lot of quirks worked out, and definitely some fun.

2025 I want to get it 4x4 again, I have most of the parts, just need funds to come together (typical holidays) and that project will be underway. The 4x4 build will consist of:

-All new front suspension, links, crossmember, braces etc.
-All new steering links, swingers, mounts etc.
-Front TTB rebuild (bushings, seals, brakes, etc)
-Front TTB LSD Carrier (since its an NP242 rig, having a non locking front diff will be fun in the snow)
-Front TTB 4.56 Gears

I'm unsure about keeping the stock D44 Rear, its done fine so far, and with some beefing up it would likely live.
-Rear Selectable locker or Detroit locker
-Rear Chromoly axle shafts

-Rear Disc Brakes

-Rear 4.56 Gears

-Rear seals/bearings etc.

Its a costly next step, but is doable in 2025.

Also tossing the idea around of changing the color, perhaps going white.