AMC Eagle Den Forum

The Shop => Project Cars => Topic started by: amarshall on September 07, 2016, 10:29:34 PM

Title: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on September 07, 2016, 10:29:34 PM
I've been lurking and soaking up the knowledge for a few months, so it's time to start a thread for my project.  I had been searching for a cheap Jeep Cherokee, but getting frustrated by the sad and rusty options available.  A little nudge from a buddy, and suddenly that 1988 AMC Eagle wagon on a certain auction site looked pretty good!

A few clicks later, and I'm winning the auction.  I tell my wife not to worry, there's no way I'll win with my lowball bid of $786. Less than 24 crazy hours later...uh honey? Guess what?  Luckily she has a great sense of humor and tons of patience for my projects.

Here is the Eagle as it was delivered a couple weeks later.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4705_zpsu8hed6vy.jpg~original)

Passenger side doors are strangely faded, perhaps some previous damage and a poor quality respray.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4708_zpslifm5sph.jpg~original)

Interior is grungy but very complete.  Driver's seat has some tears but nothing too bad.  A steam clean should do wonders.  you can't tell but of course the headliner is hanging down, only held in place by the dome light and side trim.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4702_zpsrjfuntnm.jpg~original)

Hey, check this out!  It's repaying me already!  I think we're down to $785.16 easily!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4711_zpsmvgv1nwq.jpg~original)

This cracks me up!  The company that hauled it was very careful to note any previous damage.  This looks like they were hauling a porcupine!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4727_zpss1ptnksk.jpg~original)

My wife's only request was "For goodness sake wash it before you put it in the garage" so I took it to a car wash near the house (no tag or registration yet) and they loved it.  One of the guys was rattling off the specs from memory.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4799_zpsx0sn9vda.jpg~original)

There was one casualty from the automated car wash.  The Eagle emblem came off the right front fender.  The driver's side was missing already.  Oh well, we can fix that!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4798_zpszm28yd4o.jpg~original)

All in all, a very solid car.  I've been slowly chipping away at maintenance for the past couple months.  Rockauto has become an addiction, and I'm having a blast working on the car.  It's so much easier to work on than most other things I've owned.  Very simple, other than the crazy vacuum lines under the hood.

I'll post more soon about the stuff I've done.  I've already been learning a lot from the forum, but I'm really looking forward to sharing the project.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on September 07, 2016, 11:33:46 PM
hi, welcome and congrats on the Eagle. The vac diagram should be on the cowl. Looks intimidating, but once you get it, you got it! good luck, gz  ps, post an engine pic
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on September 08, 2016, 11:51:55 AM
Congratulations on your new Eagle and a great price too!  I can tell you're have a ton of fun working on it!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on September 08, 2016, 12:29:58 PM
Thanks for the welcome, guys.  Here is an engine shot, as requested.  Many of the vacuum lines are rerouted, so I'm not really sure where to start.  Still has the Carter carb, but it runs pretty well.  I may not dig too deeply, as long as no problems arise.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4714_zps3urcsmx3.jpg~original)

The most obvious thing that needed attention was that radiator.  I took it out and the cooling fins literally crumbled to dust when I touched them.  I thought about doing a CJ7 radiator as I've read on the forum, but in the end I went with a more expensive bolt-in option to save myself some trouble.  But look how nice it is!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4883_zpslkxm71db.jpg~original)

While the radiator was out I put in a new thermostat, upper and lower hoses, and flushed the system.  Of course the car fought me a little, and now I know all about heater control valves.  The original one was frozen and I couldn't get it to work loose, so I ended up putting in one of the plastic versions from a Cherokee, I think.  The HVAC controls aren't sending vacuum to the valve when switched to cold air, so I'll have to figure that out eventually.  Being in South Florida, turning off the heat is a "must have".

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4843_zpsvhvp3jtz.jpg~original)

I also replaced all the belts - scored these at RockAuto for 1.58 each.  I can't believe their prices.  For about $150 I ordered everything I could think of and I'm slowly working my way through the big "Box o' Fun".  I've got all the suspension bushings, filters, gaskets, plugs, wires, etc that should get me set to go.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_4908_zpspl3ggkl4.jpg~original)

Now that I've spent time underneath the car, I'm amazed how solid it is coming from Pennsylvania.  The only rust I can find is on a body seam in the driver's footwell, and that's not bad enough to worry about.

The biggest thing I am worried about is the AC (need it in South Florida!) as the condenser looks as bad as the radiator was.  The system isn't working, though I have no idea why.  The HVAC controls are suspect, as well as the conpressor clutch.  And who knows if there's any pressure in the system after 28 years.  I really just need to find an AC shop and let them handle it.

Other than that, I think I can manage most of the work myself.  The goal is to build a reliable "overlanding" rig that will allow cross-country travel on forest service roads, etc.  I'm hoping to do a small lift, with slightly bigger tires.  Nothing too crazy, not going to go solid axle in front  or anything like that.  Of course, project cars are a slippery slope and things tend to get added along the way.  We'll see what time and budget permit with this one.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on September 08, 2016, 04:52:04 PM
Sounds like it should be an excellant cruiser when done.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on September 08, 2016, 06:23:20 PM
Killer deal man!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Nate Campbell on September 08, 2016, 09:03:35 PM
Great Eagle!!
Nate
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on September 12, 2016, 11:16:48 PM
I'm now working on the brakes, going through the whole thing for safety.  The park brake cables were all seized, and looks like somebody got frustrated because the linkage from the front cable to the rear was snapped.  Running new emergency brake cables wasn't too bad, though the service manual calls for a very specific adjustment tool which I don't have of course.  I got it pretty close and will test it out when I get back on the road.

The rear brakes aren't pretty, but seem fully functional.  I was pleased that the wheel cylinders were dry under the rubber boots, and there is plenty of material left in the shoes.  Lots of surface rust, but I'm just trying to get this functional and safe, not go into full restoration.  I'm sure that theme will repeat itself as I keep trying reminding myself that it doesn't need to be pretty.

Here are the rear brakes with the drums off.  I'm curious if anybody sees a problem that I missed.  I was tempted to dig into the axle seals and into the bearings, but I'm trying to keep it simple.  I don't have reason to suspect a problem with the bearings, other than age.  The car has about 114,000 miles.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_5063_zpszvesv1zh.jpg~original)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_5065_zpstojvsiep.jpg~original)

After getting my confidence up with the rear brakes, I dove into the fronts.  Which basically means I took the wheels off, hah.  Again, the pads appear to have lots of life, the rotors aren't scored, and the calipers are not frozen.  Beyond that, not much to say.  Again, i'm curious if anybody sees a mistake or something I overlooked.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_5457_zpsjhexah4r.jpg~original)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_5466_zpscs3mkesc.jpg~original)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_5459_zpsyt6iivjz.jpg~original)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/IMG_5465_zpsjkyxg4yy.jpg~original)

I did notice the soft brake lines are starting to crack, so I'll replace both front lines and the one center line in the back.  The system could use a good bleed also, because the fluid in the reservoir looks like weak brown tea.  But the master cylinder doesn't look original, so I'm hoping I got lucky there.

Typically I would repack the front wheel bearings, but I have read on this forum that the front hubs are a challenge and require a press.  I'll chicken out and wait until a problem arises.  The service manual is hilarious, says that the hubs are sealed and NEVER require any maintenance.  Yeah, right.  I wonder if there is a way to "feel" for problems with the bearings? I've spun them around but can't detect any slow spots or noise.

Thanks in advance for any advice you guys may have.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on September 12, 2016, 11:54:59 PM
hi, in the second picture of the rear brakes one of the shoes is not seated properly up top. Brakes will not work like that!  Also, check location, there is a leading shoe, and a trailing shoe. It'a good idea also, to loosen the rear hub nut, and retorque to 250-275 ft/lbs. You may need to borrow/rent/ beg, a big torque wrench for this. Fronts look good.
As for the front bearings, this really IS a big job. They are not bearings/races in the traditional sense, but in a hub assembly. They CAN be rebuilt, but it is a pretty big job involving 4 bearings two different size seals, and two O-rings, and a press. Perhaps another day. I believe Crown just brought new carriers to market. good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: AMC of Houston on September 13, 2016, 01:05:44 AM
In the first pic, it looks like someone has the primary shoe (the one with the shorter lining) on the rear instead of the front.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on September 13, 2016, 10:15:06 AM
Wow, you guys are fantastic!  Thanks!

hi, in the second picture of the rear brakes one of the shoes is not seated properly up top. Brakes will not work like that!
I'm giving myself a big dope slap to the head, mostly for posting that picture.  I've already put the drums back on, but they will be coming back off tonight to make sure the shoes are seated properly.  Wow, that looks bad.

In the first pic, it looks like someone has the primary shoe (the one with the shorter lining) on the rear instead of the front.
I'm impressed you can tell which way is front and which is back from that picture, but yes indeed they do look wrong.  If I'm reading you correctly, the primary shoe has smaller contact area, I'll have to think about that one for a bit.

It'a good idea also, to loosen the rear hub nut, and retorque to 250-275 ft/lbs.
I haven't heard about this, is it a known issue?  That's some serious torque!

And thanks amcfool1 for the info about the front hubs.  Hopefully leaving them alone is the right call. 

After the brakes, I still have some other work to do on the front end, including an upper ball joint on the passenger side.  I'll also replace the sway bar links and strut rod bushings while I'm in there, they look pretty worn out and they are cheap.  I'm planning for a 2" lift, so have been reading about all the different spring options and trying to understand them.  From what I'm seeing, the Napa springs seem the way to go.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: AMC of Houston on September 13, 2016, 10:30:29 AM
You are correct; the primary shoe has a smaller contact area, and goes to the front.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on September 13, 2016, 10:44:30 AM
You are correct; the primary shoe has a smaller contact area, and goes to the front.

I'll take your word for it, thanks again.  I'll double check but the drivers side looks wrong in the pic.  Rats, I thought I wasn't going to have to mess with those springs!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 12, 2016, 10:32:40 PM
After some time away from the project for family time and work travel, I'm back in the shop and working on the Eagle.  In the meantime I've rounded up some parts I was missing, and ordered some front springs from Napa that were recommended here on the forum.  I'm aiming for a 2" lift and trying to run 235/75/15's.

I checked the rear brakes to correct the issues you guys pointed out.  The right side brake shoes were seated fine after the picture was taken above.  I still need to rework the driver's side in the rear and flip the shoes to their correct positions.

In the meantime, I tried to replace the brake hoses but ran into trouble.  I can't get the old hoses off, the nuts on the front lines are rounding over without cracking free.  I'm out of ideas, unless you guys can suggest something.  I may have to take it to a real shop and make it their problem.  Ugh.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on October 13, 2016, 03:26:31 AM
Brakes are your friends so if you cannot do it well i cannot say that a GOOD locking pliers and heat is what will bust it free.  However its done do it right, besides the brake pedal or lack of one will tell the story.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on October 13, 2016, 08:56:40 AM
hi, on the brake lines, sometimes a very small pipe wrench works, good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 13, 2016, 05:09:10 PM
I haven't tried the pipe wrench or heat, hmmm.  Either way, one of the nuts are pretty well rounded as I was trying a vise grip.  Probably should have stopped and taken a few breaths. :banghead:

I 100% agree that it needs to be done right, for safety.  I think it will require cutting the steel line, adding a new nut, and re-flaring the line.  All things that are possible in my shop, but lack of time may mean it's better to ask a pro.  I really want this thing to keep moving along, and it's still driveable right now.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on October 13, 2016, 07:22:29 PM
Holy crap you mean those 8" pipe wrenches a=e useful. I probably seen smaller. Awesome tip
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 13, 2016, 08:19:55 PM
Success!  I had soaked everything with PB Blaster last night, and it's had a day to stew.  Not sure that made any difference, but what the heck.  I took a file to my vise grips and sharpened up the teeth, they were pretty beat up before.  I managed to get a good solid set with the vise grips, and whacked it a couple times with a hammer to get a sharp blow.  It busted loose finally.  All this with a 5 year old breathing down my neck asking "whatcha doing dad?"  Only one side left, but I feel good about it.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on October 13, 2016, 09:11:05 PM
That sounds like a picture of the quarter. Glad to here you got it. A sharp locking pliers is awesome.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: AMC1 on October 17, 2016, 11:06:00 AM
In one of those rear wheel pics I see that it is missing the automatic brake adjuster. You probably corrected that by now but I thought I'd just mention it.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on October 18, 2016, 10:36:29 PM
That might be the only eagle in south Florida.   ;D What part of south Florida, if I may ask? I spent my first 37 years in the Pompano Beach area. I don't miss it one bit.  8)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 20, 2016, 08:57:16 AM
In one of those rear wheel pics I see that it is missing the automatic brake adjuster. You probably corrected that by now but I thought I'd just mention it.

I feel like the brakes are the project that will never end! The adjuster levers are both in place, must have been a bad angle in that photo.  Thanks for raising the concern though, it made me double check everything and find that one of the adjuster wheels was frozen.

At this point I've replaced the front hoses, swapped the shoes in the rear so the primary shoes are forward, and rebuilt the parking brake system completely. All that's left is the rear rubber hose, and I'm eyeballing that connection on top of the axle.  It's pretty tight up in there, so I may wait on that hose until I raise the rear with an add-a leaf.  We'll see, but it's on my checklist so won't get forgotten.

In the meantime, I dropped the trans pan and replaced the filter.  Wow, I had forgotten what a mess that job is.  I'll be cleaning trans fluid out of my ears for weeks.  But the trans was leaking pretty heavily from the pan, so I'm hoping that is taken care of.

Thanks to everybody for your interest and encouragement.  Hopefully it gets a little more interesting for you guys soon.  I'm gearing up for the lift and some other fun stuff.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 20, 2016, 09:01:48 AM
That might be the only eagle in south Florida.   ;D What part of south Florida, if I may ask? I spent my first 37 years in the Pompano Beach area. I don't miss it one bit.  8)

I'm in Coral Springs, a stone's throw from Pompano Beach.  Yeah, not much call for these vehicles down here.  I'm used to wheeling in Georgia & North Carolina (mud), and down here is pretty flat and swampy.  I'm planning a cross country trip with a buddy, and the Eagle project is specifically for that "expedition".  SHould be a blast, if I ever get finished with the build!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on October 20, 2016, 12:50:48 PM
I know we are going off topic, but I had my honeymoon in Pompano Beach.

Marshall, the cross country trip sounds epic. Pics and videos when it happens!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on October 21, 2016, 09:39:56 PM
That might be the only eagle in south Florida.   ;D What part of south Florida, if I may ask? I spent my first 37 years in the Pompano Beach area. I don't miss it one bit.  8)

I'm in Coral Springs, a stone's throw from Pompano Beach.  Yeah, not much call for these vehicles down here.  I'm used to wheeling in Georgia & North Carolina (mud), and down here is pretty flat and swampy.  I'm planning a cross country trip with a buddy, and the Eagle project is specifically for that "expedition".  SHould be a blast, if I ever get finished with the build!
I used to work in Coral Springs and have a few friends that still live there. Do you already have the trip planned? Just curious of your destination(s).
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 22, 2016, 09:44:31 AM
We've been down here for almost 2 years, work brought us to Florida. It took some adjustment to get used to the heat but we're mostly ok now. Working in the garage is really nice this time of year, but tough in the summer.

The trip I'm hoping to do is called the Trans America Trail, and it's an off-road route from East Tennessee to the Pacific in Oregon. It's mostly farm roads and forest service trials. There is a very well produced Land Rover video on YouTube that shows their expedition in a bunch of LR4's. After a little liquid encouragement one day, my buddy convinced me that we should do the trail. I started looking for cheap Cherokees, but the Eagle caught my eye online and next thing you know I owned it! I think the Eagle will be capable of 99% of the trail, and the 1% should make for good stories.  Timing is still not set, but hopefully I'll be ready by the spring. We will probably need to tackle it in multiple sections for vacation purposes. It takes several weeks top do it all at once.

On a happy note I replaced that last brake hose in the rear. Had to take the u-bolts off the right side spring pack to get access. I was nervous they'd snap but they broke free fairly well. I need to find a cheap Cherokee add-a-leaf kit for the rear lift, looks like that job is getting closer.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on October 22, 2016, 11:18:57 AM
From what I understand you can take the main leaf from an XJ spring pack and replace it with the main leaf from the Eagle and keep the rest of the Eagle springs to get a lift in the back. Cheaper option if you can find someone parting out an XJ.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on October 23, 2016, 08:36:33 PM
Keep us posted on the trip. I no longer have an Eagle, but if you don't mind a tag along in an Isuzu Trooper and if the timing works out, I may be interested with the first leg.  I'm not inviting myself and my feelings won't be hurt if you just want to do the trip with your friend.  ;D I hope to have a winch bumper installed by Spring, but my "new" property is taking all my time and money.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v637/svoman2300/1988%20Isuzu%20Trooper/IMG_20160520_141951522_zpsahryp9dz.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/svoman2300/media/1988%20Isuzu%20Trooper/IMG_20160520_141951522_zpsahryp9dz.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 23, 2016, 09:43:27 PM
From what I understand you can take the main leaf from an XJ spring pack and replace it with the main leaf from the Eagle and keep the rest of the Eagle springs to get a lift in the back. Cheaper option if you can find someone parting out an XJ.

Good tip!  I'm looking locally for a yard with XJ's anyway.  I have a set of 4 XJ wheels, but would like one more for a spare.  On the springs, I'm reading online that new U-Bolts are really needed.  News to me, but I don't want things to come apart!  I've read your thread about mild lifts about 100 times (Thanks for that!), trying to let it all soak in.  Still trying to figure out some good/cheap/longer shocks for front and rear.

Keep us posted on the trip. I no longer have an Eagle, but if you don't mind a tag along in an Isuzu Trooper and if the timing works out, I may be interested with the first leg.

The more the merrier!  I've also got a couple buddies from Nashville who are talking about tagging along on their dual-sport motorcycles.  The trail was really designed for and by bikers anyway.  Not sure when we'll start, but watch this space! I may get crazy and try to put in a NP242 transfer case, would be happy of any advice - I see from your signature that you had an Eagle with one.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on October 24, 2016, 10:53:18 AM
  Not sure when we'll start, but watch this space! I may get crazy and try to put in a NP242 transfer case, would be happy of any advice - I see from your signature that you had an Eagle with one.

As far as I know, the only way to install a 242 is to install a later transmission like an AW4 auto or AX15 manual. An NP229 from a Grand Wagoneer is practically a bolt in. I had previously installed one behind my 998 and it worked just fine. I had 2 sitting in the garage, but I gave them away to another Eagle owner.
If you make a trip a little north, maybe this guy has a transfer case. Getting the low range shifter, also if he has it. http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/pts/5828543500.html
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on October 24, 2016, 10:55:43 AM
I've read your thread about mild lifts about 100 times (Thanks for that!), trying to let it all soak in.  Still trying to figure out some good/cheap/longer shocks for front and rear.

Oh my gosh, someone who actually searches and reads post about topics he's interested in instead of just asking the same question over and over again! Can we keep him, can we keep him! Please mommy!  :rotfl:
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on October 24, 2016, 12:52:15 PM
I've read your thread about mild lifts about 100 times (Thanks for that!), trying to let it all soak in.  Still trying to figure out some good/cheap/longer shocks for front and rear.

Oh my gosh, someone who actually searches and reads post about topics he's interested in instead of just asking the same question over and over again!   :rotfl:
You mean like on the Facebook page?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 25, 2016, 12:02:39 AM
  Not sure when we'll start, but watch this space! I may get crazy and try to put in a NP242 transfer case, would be happy of any advice - I see from your signature that you had an Eagle with one.

As far as I know, the only way to install a 242 is to install a later transmission like an AW4 auto or AX15 manual. An NP229 from a Grand Wagoneer is practically a bolt in.
If you make a trip a little north, maybe this guy has a transfer case. Getting the low range shifter, also if he has it. http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/pts/5828543500.html

Wow, thanks for the legwork on the Wagoneer listing.  My wife would kill me if I bought another vehicle right now though.  She's great, but there's such a thing as "too much" sometimes.  :)

I thought the NP242 was possible, could swear I've read some posts here about it, possibly by CaptSpillane?  Guess it's time to recheck. I thought donor XJ's would be easier to find in the junkyards.  I know the shifter is an issue, no matter what.  Does the Wagoneer linkage work on the Eagle also, or just the shifter?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 25, 2016, 12:06:06 AM
Oh my gosh, someone who actually searches and reads post about topics he's interested in

Glad to have brightened your day!  I'm one of the last people on earth not on Facebk so hopefully all the good info is here in the forum, hah.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on October 25, 2016, 01:56:45 PM
  Not sure when we'll start, but watch this space! I may get crazy and try to put in a NP242 transfer case, would be happy of any advice - I see from your signature that you had an Eagle with one.

As far as I know, the only way to install a 242 is to install a later transmission like an AW4 auto or AX15 manual. An NP229 from a Grand Wagoneer is practically a bolt in.
If you make a trip a little north, maybe this guy has a transfer case. Getting the low range shifter, also if he has it. http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/pts/5828543500.html

Wow, thanks for the legwork on the Wagoneer listing.  My wife would kill me if I bought another vehicle right now though.  She's great, but there's such a thing as "too much" sometimes.  :)

I thought the NP242 was possible, could swear I've read some posts here about it, possibly by CaptSpillane?  Guess it's time to recheck. I thought donor XJ's would be easier to find in the junkyards.  I know the shifter is an issue, no matter what.  Does the Wagoneer linkage work on the Eagle also, or just the shifter?
You"re right. I had to do some searching and it was bolting the 229 to the AW4 which would pose an issue. My buddy Paul has a 242 bolted to the back of his 242. The floor pan in the Eagle appears that it was made with the idea that the low range shifter from the 229 being used at some point. The 229 still uses the 2-4wd vacuum shifter and then a floor shifter to engage low range. I did adapt the 229 shifter to the 242, but it wasn't optimal. If it wasn't for the fact that I already had the floor shifter installed, I would have used an aftermarket shifter like from Novak. CaptSpillane did offer some great info, however there were a few times where is was incorrect, but seem to have a huge ego. He has since ripped some members off and disappeared.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 31, 2016, 10:59:47 PM
I'm still hopeful on the NP242, since XJ's are fairly easy to find in junkyards.  Fingers crossed, and when I get there I'll try to document it well.  Forums are great but sometimes you have to piece together hints and rumors to get the whole story.

I'm starting to get a little overwhelmed with all the things that are on the project list, but I had a good session over the weekend.  I thought the trans was still leaking, though I had just done the filter and used a lot of care on the pan gasket.  Turns out there was just so much mess from the job it was hard to tell.  I cleaned up the pan area and ran it for about 15 minutes and didn't see a leak from the trans.  The transfer case is pretty drippy, of course.  And there is oil coming out of the flywheel cover - maybe from the rear main seal?

I'm getting closer to doing the front end:  New springs, a ball joint, strut rod bushings, sway bar links, etc.  I'll probably drop the front axle at the same time since it doesn't look like it's ever been serviced.  I may be pretty close to dropping the oil pan at that point, with just a little more effort.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on November 10, 2016, 07:34:09 PM
II will be near several Pull-A-Part junkyards this weekend, and I'm hoping to get a Jeep transfer case.  I've been reading about NP242's on this site and others, and just can't seem to get all the details clear in my head.  If anybody can help with a couple of these questions before Saturday morning, it would be much appreciated!

What input shaft do I need?  I have an Eagle Wagon with an auto trans, the 998.  I know it's 23 splines, but I can't figure out how long the input shaft needs to be.  Apparently the Jeep Cherokee XJ's had several lengths of input shafts (appropriately named long, short, and very rarely medium).  Several posts here on the board make me suspect the Eagle would need the long input shaft version, but I can't find it said plainly anywhere.

Which Jeep Cherokees should I target?  I'm pretty focused on the NP242 for its versatility.  I know I may have to mess with front or rear driveshafts, the speedometer, and the shift linkage.  Best I can tell, I should look for a Cherokee with an AW4 auto to get a 23 spline version.  The junkyards may have vehicles as old as 1995, but this seems to mostly matter for the speedo - not other things.

I  know much of this has been covered before, but believe me I've read it.  I may be missing something, but I just can't find clear answers to these things.  If there's a source I've missed, please shoot me a link and I'll give myself a dope slap!  I'm really hoping not to take out more than one junkyard transfer case, just to check the input shaft.

Thanks for any help!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on January 04, 2017, 11:44:50 AM
...and we're back!  Work, family and holidays have slowed progress but the Eagle project has been moving along anyway.  While I was silent, I did a few odd jobs:


Latest project was a new upper ball joint on the passenger side.  Here's a shot after removing the old one, with zip ties holding the lower arm up.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZeD7tyUNUA065zm0fQ0iHZLTYauQ8rL0iCENkl5ZKHSGY6t1kcRZ8G9hvZ9OnESSsw0h3xFmgUouRsRDp9PClPE0g3o4igsd9k8i3S3dkrMXmx2ek7WN2HXXjQ2A25gZaCGZayLqDS_lA6NBOu6U3JCJrFsiXtwTsvK2SSNesy1FNKh0AmriWv0dNkVP-exsUR1J1J9zL_BTE6mJ8YC-FCZXphiRAnzX3rxaIOpWZkEDvOwjPMhiifV9EDWZ8mcauQeGbWIq7_NAb3XcNWGoIRXfT0FD5sGTMySrdxgkpwmR-yaNFone5PV2S7Gi9fJ0dFHLqMTVM01el9dPwipg197ZOoiggdzQGWfvIDGiq69k1ywIcKeB5rcLMafl3WY97T6qXXU8pNO3M9MBXhtbH9cQwBugj1EnTUMqxytrIRQ5vFdFFGyBn8tn7wxVfMypgbeghXxMyAiLdbjkOQ_eFzOIfzIMDp1p7-WWxKwXjHJc9Q77JGCWNkWWz6RWrB2qrRdZ-yqp55AeqYjNorcKseP7LlMDO78W15ETzotvdIMuXU-w5VkBJc9plrsfOyYNBYLEDhiPOdcwxZgKYRv_yv27xkcJy_LL3umw_Mn8VY7tSrmAbTR0JU-PSU3jvbX1a0eM_644Aq9torAn5SqqTzzyaN9Eaw1E8d6I=w603-h804-no)

And almost done in this picture...job wasn't as bad as I expected.  The castle nut came loose very easily.  It took a little more hammer than I thought to break the joint loose, but I was probably being a little timid as a first timer. I used a heat gun to slightly warm up the knuckle and that seemed to help.  My stepdad was telling me to use a torch but I didn't even want to think about metallurgy and possibly weakening the upright.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g79owIEuueymrOUefw3ZcgvLw8otWfxML4pr1BLAZXW-JMo8G6Yf0xHAouF1ZwT8pjbykjWKu8-QFanJxxsX1xFX6-l1b_DR6agOc4Y-eLdacBgfr6JuUNGHBMGLrZPBWG80OWOOR766-ev7N3ci9KCehpXFQo1sTHRpdELsnyX3S0l3AID-MyoQ8VpkbP_w6Hl8GnSK-Lc2s7Xv871Akm73LU4gD3Cnbh_ZTLvASo46-1VUuCMyyBislFH35ESNBmmgtIYPKMEf6LaJnT3_Q5JEat0R5PMEmBuVvN9tJL2h6zvtLcLUzqBx6XQvlTSfPfUDNbqYaLwY-ottGhWQLTPjelWeUmZg1KT8U5fj_1LvRdDZAaK4qnG9OXQlWeUtCOx_F3fORZcuHLzkgk1eUb_7mwZ4BY-HkGT8GM2TRY43iVAV2OHvODVmYTCaFLrHsOnivbSKbqY4YZ9FdBe5Aiun8ZwWk6I6kB5sOj-8dRBn25gvLrD0_JpSLcTYW9ak6I0RL1jwodM0GsjzgJbQkW_EyqnghdGi7fE5TGNMFQ0h0q42NvWiLAHy8ESiYF9d28fPJ--mO15hep1_z2VOm1zsvRhzZqHxrcdtFoqb5OQylcEOkpzTmTGzTSnv40bjLtSPTVWbHeeER_ke3LN3_xwoM69ArzbvceOq=w1072-h804-no)

I spent some time looking at the steering linkages.  Would have been easier without 30 years of built up grease and crud on the joints.  Here's a before and after of the grease as I worked through wiping things off.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ij_PweUUs9JUeFljgNK_Xt43NlhpfwPZ7ivY6ZP1ki64cqbvBRh7hrl2zpvIlLkFVXN3dUXyTM6JNq0fpQY9WIbW6HsfSvo6qL6TMroIsGLVGC-TFSnSumDf0gfrLu4ALI9PclXNW_W_zExqKuPLDZpBVGGYjj_OTxnzlI5eSVUk6v4kGFYY8ubv5kGxKncuB5Z_0yvAuDn68lm2REmoZ5wWdocRwQjycZH5fp4fUZWW8JNAh_BVOUJ2UOXDyQAAjbE_gYVwHPG6L-ZTZejWZGOXcrhD9fuVIe6KJGBSHgZV9H-wX58940sgoZ6teyCL2n_D3ax8BlAm9Haf2rS9DRRHkKAjF_JReM8oVJslVtYzLI3Nk_QrRNo8k7nPXkw-1bx4dBXlDKksv6nFIFBWDD_GbZRi2vDv7QHrl9NPWnHST7oQ5hNmf5iJ-d0ftb8p6-ZRHJ-h6iyPoFeCVJEaFwOLxGC1sQ0edocO5EgN7QYYawkwSiDXLN3UkFhjtJ1tBIQjd41kRmAban-_hDeT5h4AZUpj_UsvJHc7H9awyp6oVEiFvoQGJJO1FgDB-haUQ6ozWjNOA7c7RZzuE__VzEy0rZrr2aKNiGwyIgF8qPRNCkFd0AiyGFfS_lBN5ZPbou7KBgKkOvVVKayKPWz-0QdzeyVArjdur-i7=w1072-h804-no)

Question for anybody out there:  The idler arm and pitman arm don't have rubber boots on the joints.  Is that normal?  The tiny diagram in the factory manual doesn't show any rubber boots, but that seems strange. My idler arm doesn't even have a zerk fitting, though there is a hole on the top of the joint.  Maybe it broke off or was removed at some point?

Here's the top view of the idler arm on the passenger side:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xhSY8PsfS1NyEKlobEI44UUzsKVDzBRJXYwhzAYb7CzIdOT65DCqN21OixCJQwunFBedReCsYcW0Sh99wJ5oeAb2TRAcyy9aPmZrcydREvdTIng7odlTVPD5aawyEQDaqxwAE2dblZlDXBFxPNOOW-zwZKIa1dwCfymrjLItqoY4fge2M8QUk2v0d14PotOaVuVyGxiTK1jz-JHefnlnU3Uh6lhWgL5XmxGS0_K8ttiSmgkZPoVAfvT9HDlwW_rtF9bKSH58EkmI_LdyWhPL50GyjzKdwbl_uBqF1WokhX1kFNOnaHBnDy3Fq8bTz-wLSdl8PzzKvrNjcijSRk8OyowOLwEUHRao67OxuAaxykC8YSQe4hQGttggKSmkmNeKlEFECLU-yrKEbEAbXVMHQ5IjHtkzMrr1I1MBPpIO_cU21yrvot_ZC8JTa6W1H95oSwHx-1JG6rd24PQSXKM5eqc6VFd8AEoDxliyQFv9DaxeUTRQyElMx0c2v3PmiQvHjIwI7AlBib1Y8YbHcwCm6A3w_5h2auqdsdjPhn0sKxeVbX_tGACGSEUcFM_bNe_Mcl-D7Zx22qG-HjOoko4GKCm7X8smaoDAsF_QiPmcTv6pwr6HQ-Vs17Ulwz0zr3iCV1IIaXrBgtR-zqSFaaFQqPB2x3pzZN0ey-b=w1072-h804-no)

Here is the pitman arm, on the driver's side:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yeIa_Wnsjcsfp0vhEwxqB0JeFygWnFuS65YszPgqYL7ldnOWbD0UcuiSQWL2UWLC9eg92wAKSBQNkQcKnljI3jZwHbsgp-OtDHnkfdzGH7OiOusLdSpzYL7e61PWLbitthHUd7bq7-e-WRnH5TC-oEGD_bRo_ba1XOmcpWe1-wW3tdNEptK9BkLiflpdBM0QXSRgu2GmyhkLxoQwkrkd7rX3gYu2dxiXdhh3J6VWUCYAT-FRj0IVJtsBz0qHgt9Qs7YiBuhXCfvB9XIYFMBbIO3vT3oVwrUxMYfsejmrH2IMJlXU0E5JOUkQ_4uEdU9SDMFhRoVFeuhwvEFH299oXwFfqdoUz5uqTELYF4RRLN4oZtpAY-eBq-3dGNRudMd0X3H3bwwISWpFIehAoMYnPNPy3F-uElIeWsQr2vHfyAsg6d_rxFt745KsQkY0pCwWOgdt2LOC6fofsY7xid6Si48Hyh9iV12boJRWY1Unv_i2ZhA7mN2BXsffJFGun5SjZYoJBVvU-N7JvLAp8LTNc-L5WDxC6-YLXnaCHWWLahpXW96vBlQexrvGIn0MehQ_t_9fdoOu5pJaO1nJCdxC8hHqQv7lPv_jPyXpnZDlOu7gjj9E4hNoPnAWOyVMJxcg6uat8G9XQTiZwcnz-xhJJ9_ABZmgZF_Lx3b8=w1072-h804-no)

I'm really at the point of no return on this project.  It's still been driveable through everything so far, and I've been doing repairs and maintenance for the most part.  The next step is to tear down the suspension and do the lift, so there's really no going back from this point.  Time to stop thinking about it and just do it, I suppose!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on January 30, 2017, 04:14:45 PM
Here's what happened in January, or at least what I can remember:

New springs in front, what a project that was for a first-timer!  I finally got it all back together after some head scratching and cursing.  I went with the Napa springs that are (I think) supposed to be the same as the Moog 3156's.  I got a measured 2 1/4" lift in front at the wheels, with the driver's side sitting a little higher after it was all done.  I don't think I'll worry about the 1/2" difference from side to side.

Spring perch bushings were shot
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TcZP7fKgwDy6pxn-wf_QyGmrsQxdJJzC5g0fUb2hGpZVAbwJumptvbBuMrXeGMgkUHPTWXXNeyczr_BSUqHhHyAWNRKkrER2orDZ2KVhIapVaEsApiUN9mo_A4JGPlwDdSkYSAjoNj30M4ci3d-XjPKCaHBTc-cnJKumKMh5m2mKgqYBrmLDbTfogeBdwMWzlghyba46q-n62WpnOZ-Ld2zxMXJt80FPZWetqMtRLtkC8HGEH0U8ViVZw3nxIHAiMSTbw1Uwq7yuHZFlJdtdP0Y-gO3GKdl9Z3FN3XQpqhE0Hoc23JhPO12vaDR8CrQDGn1S4FVR4CP05cj0LWM_phNSzTYr95lCNLuBzNVn1ztMmdUmW6LDcHIKIJxztEuvQPTkHUx8_jbhmOQvEg1_u02oEqdlpl0Id7vILBEHIkh6COACyWHDzMD6l-R-SRUW8r-DK4zTg48pPgW28XWNH7eKhsH44iCMoWzW-Lu1Fnkg4m2CzR9BLJ6bD4Tve-4hFqpriPlgR86zYMisUdvRVQphJjzz59BXnjKPhV8TvP7NxsZLc_Y4nbOJ11C5S-XwSduPlcY1tmgrgRTSAqi3_Hi3mjdubrnmswNj9jYx7asKisUIWFx4VN0Ael-VhJJsQxGR9hA5mjAzow5csNMm0lUbBFkR5sQtX5ZF=w1072-h804-no)

I found a tip on another (the one other?) AMC forum about using poly bushings inthe spring perches, and found a kit on eBay.  Not too bad, just need a good vise.  Mine broke, so I ended up renting a ball joint press from Autozone.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ol72In-BjnPHSfkudjpcaiWqbSvD-1tItQYvMM3XsrpB-msCthY3gBQUZSgvNdwUtbwBsc6zCjDESOj9R7ISEd57BXxpmnEy21Se6ngyYnIga91uezNmPH94lAn8gibETg039xQ4fJo-oPaZAhqJe5ofhEmCB_FXVRPb2LxSr46WD2GVDrgwtxzKfg90r40Ag_K31woBo9Xac_VsADfnxhztsLud1Ar0v24DXxexZkyvALgnDk-mnxtZOQa-5-cYVdVTM2OJplyN8kNtBJpCket68uH7t4rct9-SyjcuGkqigkwpjNgenk5IQDhi0p0uXgreINd-dWiqXyWRSKMp8Sfro5yedeFs2unhedGynNfdXKk7AulaLLArLruAyzzbF6JwzLkWiZ5xwXmuLbTezohTJgxlusoPnu-ac1QOq22M_Go3gH_Ux1Uh3AFrrFL-6sn3QnAEqSj_wO7mqwypM277rft4Wn17DHh59G-2xZWsAU74yCp6qIn0Z-Ck_ifmxXpHk38O9MDsxp99w17FU8IuT3jee_ytOcA98aLNe-T92DsX82P-RQ-48W4xx3r2y3I6yAr56wXEaRWN22y2FB16FS1MTmQfbPwOoIafBr3hCunu3S15f7aZWw3VAPeRJEXWoy2zur_e0mLm-6XjdrPP3AzlnBic5zbO=w603-h804-no)

Spring in place!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/V1f8PYj-1C5qIRBXmoXJB5CMGXG2NHZ4igNcPtya8AgW_4Pcua0Adqnhr7f4jsYd1xpIX9hR5FEa-_GqjhPwMTxnN8SHJ2ldUKlbpLQLvvoblARHXMfVZ9zs3suct2JLKxt04CdM_DdhsoUaT3nrlPyHKrcKvzBEXX_gTmPD1JdxfJVVmBDI9p_lD9kacmC_ZBLwBZnGDoGH_YpZmNWjMRb5Q_kwDbwd6YIBurAVx5A7rLLMFzuog9fQ-YI3QpzF0TY96DNdz2Kf4idXrMNH3BjQ7j5Vp4SdLv1Mzp-AZ53Q_X9W81qvLV1jYp2y-htqMzWk4khvVqM35KQ7KswFmy3j81_WMBjlTh5MGD9AvtDE0MFxxg1RUmBi5F2OUtqG9rg2rJO00WFWma6e8hCVoo-KyU3VmgtClm6vWCa9ll-rs5lJBckLqJq2rkA72khM2BhazuCk_AnE68SRCvILKUKgFF3AhFracBZF1_77V6JL_d4X7U55jBBtXWgf9T3okuuWt5kT3ALWRdxSHJB9CH3fT8Jrwg1_eZS2j7u8bVREYIancgV65dhMw5gklT-tXsgK3ZQ-HmnYaISlqpKRHe6_XP9C9EcIzGOrS_IWKEZ9wqLa7NuiZsBDCDTD4i-ZYhuvkWG_V3PTr9zCh4RoRXMPSVIeEQ1tH62y=w603-h804-no)

Before and after the front springs:
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eRf_-kJQe3aS2nMUe6Qt_xqzzkKqmuqk4ngNZ2I4cnu-k97V6cdrX5hi_vftFPDOYt0OBI-xqODcUolwpuidSK2W13t2I9xG5XK_mF909Kv96mGUIFeE0KUA-sBg_NPUtEnbciwqBw5v9cvj48jjOQE2Rgrr0bKu48_Kq5K6NPR5r3bEdBaRQBftzOGF1Dg60Z5viEAN-uV1tWh9Vp8nHMrXg0IJ6pwhKG13lJE6MGGjmZVqTq-Tug1vxGzmA-2QSMQYRwlW8NrPnVhorhznGGdKOCgBNNOxCLfCnUKpYbK5taSMGxY4ys-kBB4bCiDoLMpcDpxJK5dOLwkqeOn6WQMtjdLQQcLzMjv04JMxv4kBSqC0x9RUeACF74QmG84YMbASvNtdDaP-Y6ASpmFjqlLvoBmPhZ3HLBvoKO-DVIcHbIF5mm6PPCGbL0fjmr3_MI_TnN9DjSvM-tFEfi9ULAA3lGiIY05Dkq-ooqvEhHgXi9DaP2RyUFd6qEy5JA7cADoIwNI1hufA-5iR930_g7NS_DuNw2XqSwdL3bPueRs4pHx6EnpIalPY_DxUuaWRfaCRLF8-yd8ahli7OPgGLAn8yV_jBsUkM745rrDR8oZ1IZOP-yL66LeYU1KWzE_RWbeR0SqLlCrFtt-srLHmN3HhzWX67saCeqUS=w1440-h483-no)

Measured for new front shocks, looks like they should be exactly 1 1/2" longer than the old ones at full extension.  I am thinking of using stock spec shocks and adding threaded extensions - more to make the search easier.

Did new sway bar links in front.  I've been telling my wife "Nascar performance, baby!" while she just rolls her eyes.  ::)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7SoKIbde2Z6-9kkjA5GFoplk2IX-qCIX0iwNw_Y16J6BzOzo7ajJfOD7u7fwAMiJ0Km7TngE-ZaUZ9kpjjP6oStm__XW99fMHt-aMFhyAHvofo1Ro_-cRgMsHEY39ZFSkxabS_JJh9oJdel4MszIQPCL6JZOPPNasEIHPSHKqLglENCAbTCwKvnV6tpUAo5vUEc7INl1MgSY2XUzyScl0otj2vi2yIy6FSVHCc7I3whYam4cqi1OurMlQzqk75wehcdeu6pzWrFLKG0_pocjgGYPqNV4POKuYrKmniFibEK81WIrl5dzGWKYXbFkRhalPUv_0rwb48xmDTlwlaldYR3gStfwgAHTfiJyjp8-WA9AXvpe_5QpRWbiID4Fxw2vtWKnMFoaQfV_KIpYXTpabQrdi18PoycAWjIIJBSUDNr34O54-N4PSGXISQ7_5vIt_Bg8Nsb75ctcTPna3SrgubBpXE523eTQbZD3ajPUO4mqXSnmeUmIN6APSrmNNTwb35H5ZVvBKbiWBniZN9ESPlP8kbtzTxA376ioMtoKevOEg1vLNg-2kMwxAuyezRdl_FqMLglrnth9GwUMPblUCUhAA-7WgV2vKoAEnoz3rDk61HGDVNfKKKRgSM_7mKi_clkmsOjYpaBLNOhSZoPBvStYZi19myICF6ds=w1072-h804-no)

Final item in the front is the strut rod bushings.  After removing the strut rods, I found that the metal sleeve in the old bushings had seized up with rust inside the rubber bushings.  Hammers, vise grips, etc finally got the old sleeves off in pieces.  I've ordered the 11/16-18 die needed, and am really hoping to clean up the threads enough to save the strut rods.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IwPV0uZ41f_gIUn9NWwC1ipj6FWQE0C0CFbVevJgwA8WEGkxz_otO9nZtUFaogUxNWDl-SLrXx6kfTcBUSNcqIIRE6pBhDoHxlm7rZS8mqFq7eDUHqbG9YqM6ur18T-kIlNM8HaCp98BH2tmHYwfmUNNZOS-7Jpdxveo7g1mN--e95s9hBQyj8KydJN3YjszNq8g7Nn8_svK1-kLJ-txIVt-W5pd83-c1XaQ92LqzDpRgnNTsCaYjkwtdUxCSZG7dJYLqqORGYOnD5A02VopHlzJUDsYI4j0TZj8re66m95byH2D4uXJCh9eM5S6Q40aUT9o_Hqw6RR8gNyKisHb-dSfM362euA1rrupA1t3pBMQXl38UkqwKPYPnTF2dwLUB19MOFAN98dzNdL_6DlrI7zVxcKua55GPJhMiFrpe_-OG7PbTyZq-Q890zsP3wh3CHh2whYwCzEoXlWtUBIcxaTq-aRxNhDFNyhLjJQCMul4MLpmZS0ccEypq8-_1T_V6DzVFIwxurvV5Afm69rfG6Uur78JdjJe6SKVAV_dexrvXcW4BHzy51T1IE0b_N_sH2obmDoJQM6NZWx9bC8ZHOu_pPbPcjjaTrsEjVTVu8ktXtZV21V4IQWwM52Z4QynudMfcsDe3bnppoImlIQDedbKPlCH9M7BzBhp=w603-h804-no)

Can these be saved?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/A7kEayH8mhDoYck8HZi0704F-KrtUdcbOD1BvfeUaOXDO-9j8U0pX8HJwBvMgvqS9Jz0B-b0Yf0ab9iChtBDv3LgJJgzCThmF0I2tLDGFWg7-n3wYblWco2eVlyQgHUZhOmiJmCqmtuGhhi23wk8O_nFSpPStmZFvay1SzaEGqS5FTAj5jbKt0pjU3kWfHLc9hmqnaa0hjxTc6rHW_SdwvLUqOsKKQpbqWroF4P92yaswn_U8VNndEWm8VAHcVVF6KppCF6rTBXnQOKH-bCB-NESG02DdUamOGKD2MajubaEQJJhcE1JNQuYKoecGlShdg4bGWlPkkOQWn0J9MbWpuHoRBoc9THJ7Q0iXk0Z3fCW3ywDoZG5AWuNB6iraj9Z21muDv-2uOnjanub2Q-s5HIjjcdcurU--PCC4xufGe8VwPNT-SfHRhExK1MFAP_Ykbsw_RIEmCbv69KQEMvbZHuqvSeW0zUUMo8vvqAEqIsGKLGH1OBrAcl7jTj7GGkwDDRFv5WUj7uXRZtCuv0zmOmbGz6SQz97LZhHfp-t-FlZta7FghAkLyDGZQJVOoUA8XRQFHDfGmMZyT7unU83SBf6dD3hXdw5n_iCD5m5Y3VNqKzbOsQoudA0KQSTpZJVonJMB-b87F-eTe_www5cElnGy4jYiZwyb6El=w603-h804-no)

Took the old carb out, getting ready for a Motorcraft upgrade I bought from GRONK. A little slow to ship, but looks like a good kit so far.  Hopefully it will go together and run great.

New valve cover gasket is almost done.  Saturday's session was all about cleaning off the valve cover, what a mess that was.  I need to seafoam the engine based on the deposits I found.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/H-7ZhgutAAzUAlxhEOupjyt40yryDXwKCYjvNPr5gjO1qbSD7iZr4nBamC5Le7MK-nLS53APDI44zzsHGMB5mDB_qhjpyD05hQsxFZ66dsyPfZ2JxYQPPua9zLHdJX2s2aGmjj5ZVYr2hHbuLO4oyV2VJOz2b49czJ0_Yr8xH_iMsSJUkvDOOPFi2ElCN_1xAPPGmcuNrC_Wz9jCAdfXxN_ghmlbmuPIGw4wJfhGb6ZQdX8juu5gJRNy2Aijsy1gsvm2vlJSc1VDFDAaI4auB-VcnU2n2UAWw8RmFgNB7ToyTlnZ7Qv6MYN0PokB2CdMEuZsTQXWgMMhBEJ7HCQmW1OWwMJkINMQ6c0-8dbxrRObqwL-u8Zv-gULdEN_NExHOE0BjBPjWhTQGRm4L8q5m1K2aYMRPnNTHKM6yiUE3y93Y_eOB5nNDFS0iLDkP4rmHvefwgoPdDBJ5lP4sL02vJ2XrbzMWq63EGmbcZ6sGa12XVxaKyJErBtg_MAtFObr5XgvIZAJyEasmDXOJ74qGFrpyln4tXtr2D8Is8LVUpytwk-Sdb6X8T9Yc8JIt11BuzEz9yfa1hQKv1Y0p8IUMHsx_4c1EnCE9XbjuNZ0ERmKF_hULBoHXAVJnF4boMnfa13kyZKu2_AKip9pUsRFSdIId6o9w7Efr5aX=s804-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on January 30, 2017, 06:46:46 PM
Wow, making some progress. I think of done the front springs 3 times and it doesn't get any easier. New cuss words are invented each time.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on January 30, 2017, 08:28:01 PM
Thanks, I'm trying to keep this moving.  Lots to do yet, but I'm still hoping to get on the road by late April, early May perhaps.

The springs were tough for sure.  I think the original style AMC spring tool would have helped, but I got through it finally with the one from Autozone, the internal style.  It took me a few tries to figure out the winning combination to get the taller springs back in.  Of course I was also compressing the spring with a socket - no air tools here.  I finally figured out what worked for me:  I had to put the compression tool in upside down with the nut at the bottom.  Had to release it with a standard open-ended wrench, one nudge at a time.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on January 30, 2017, 10:52:00 PM
Nice work man!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 03, 2017, 11:20:48 AM
Got the valve cover put back on.  That one bolt in the rear is a booger to reach!  I got the valve cover cleaned, but resisted the urge to paint it and lose the "patina".  Really, I'm lazy and this build is for trails - not for show.

I also got a lot done on the new carb setup, just need to do a couple more lines (fuel and PCV) and then I can try to start it.  This is the cleanest part of the car!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4F9OgPN3ZR286MpbbEhbybYlAqu1e36B3pyfda6Q5W9gkRU9rt0YnKuHVpWsOBrnAvdbht7_kgc_Nl6D9bKU_J5on3yLszUJzJiWjW-1m2ySDHmuKzYxH_1jztxMMvklSOsGWm24m-ZKaiWDwhVUHc9gu9g8IF5kcCMANsWmyiL-SfjD_MQmKbZOgyINDBvkeWcLGuzhyz17i--1ELnmkJEnNfgQkV2-FamRimCJgIWLSXF04ZMiUlahjUKHySZ5SMw2do8n2hOY4UYLbsEhuC5_RoYBQTOYZenzXbZlDH-EDhPSj5B5V_MEcJpCigXH81McRDBPtfyBwNBp0DNEbSXV7qB-bcSSBih6mCKIIPs6zyLo5XbSmPMo-GyVyK2Z6En1y1exLvLTJnLFOJvXwrNN3Oz7eeAPOcperMm9pMGcgP29_cSIOQMcivQY1stZdSArzgi7t6jTzIfiCW-8sw_Qw0kUtLryy1xU_4uZYkGB4ZAgSGvQ1P-OvoyGYF-DnapfX7YtDbgzfWJ5i2bTBrPjEwQLqZTCROsXE_NObApTi8A69rUXXuoEisuiJZwdIqdz22_Af5VPrT9EjMIIB6aviQ0ty48Y_ZvzdiojW9p_EOeH6YhQYMbBCwIFUG0ByMq0JUN_-qyMcOLtEcmBo_tMqSPcrmI6OgOl=w1072-h804-no)

As I dig in, I'm realizing that a lot of the smog equipment has been bypassed or went missing over the years.  There was no charcoal canister, the EGR was disconnected, and many of the vacuum lines were "creatively" bypassed or just hanging loose.  There was so much questionable stuff that the MCU/Carb can't have been fully functional so the whole thing was probably rigged up to run in one mode only.  I haven't driven it much, but stalling was common.  I kept adjusting the idle to keep it going but it wouldn't hold it for long.  I'm really hoping the new carb is as wonderful as everybody else has claimed.  I know it will be a lot simpler, and I can clean up the engine bay at least.

What should I do with this stuff?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WDYpiQvWuxwOU6vh-EjTZlXq66a6zQuBjJY8btfamjqT8ItGFIW7qtQ5kNDM0NyrCCfVT5nCr700knaSdjAn-C1C83zVNBL5hALO0xbZJbf22KxKU9G70oYFFPGRRshz_l1ur6xQg9CTxYmUFrB9G3uR_ukK5tqC2_zLdRGc7s02tD0rfRoMo1PquUx8SZaQBv6SoijvssFPmjwJdeXVo2njaOXyw-EcR69PzdxhUCFRfP932Vs-1F4c7ZUZaeK6C9nl4kvqUxp0CoIOg-bj64-KeIDxVOwxVaDGVRdHpMt1ZvyLRNh-GDnxhtms2ePh3xf9a5wu4rY31vGjkQJBpFF6qdwhW2FQPsyhZZZ4XNov9j5adQJo2aezRfRkIUMgSWrQM8HYHfNpR9KF5j34sChy7rI72NIN6LDuexibzjJgCC2cWy001ntx-VnjKpQ1sLGLw_Djk31BvpR9ArdvvQx4MguQF2UjT39ScaAaKJIAhyHYXc630PhoKO_egvwPhlEP9-wjgfrhAR2-spklm0qEoJ07B1jqnZ1aGmAv-5aXPLxmVjX5Jv7_nRts4TLp1Q-1YwVPqW19TxZ-0Zl2fUjHjR3hkQ4vDIGNQiTzSd6649cHprpq_kcjptH8-XS1EqtdTwH0ZnRa0AHmVAfniMyHpXw6wZ1BJwdg=w1072-h804-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on February 03, 2017, 11:26:35 AM
If you do have any of the smog stuff, it might be handy for anyone that lives in an area where they have emissions testing, even if its just to pass the visual test. 
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: carguy87 on February 03, 2017, 11:33:46 AM
The lift from those springs looks nice, you'll have to let us know how they ride.  I used the old horse shoe lift on mine in the front way back when I did it.  Those strut rods can definitely be save.  Mine were in worse condition and came out nice.  You'll be surprised what they will look like after running a die over them.

While you are doing the tune-up, did you get stock stuff or the Ford big cap upgrade?  Definitely worth it to do if you're running the AMC ignition system.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on February 03, 2017, 12:18:31 PM
hi. my 84 strut rods were in about the same shape. Cleaned up nicely with the die. New jam nuts can be bought from Speedway. good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 03, 2017, 04:22:05 PM
If you do have any of the smog stuff, it might be handy for anyone that lives in an area where they have emissions testing, even if its just to pass the visual test.

I'll be sure to post a final list of all the leftover parts when I'm done, in case anybody can use them.  Luckily Florida doesn't have emissions testing on something this old.

Those strut rods can definitely be save.  Mine were in worse condition and came out nice.  You'll be surprised what they will look like after running a die over them.
hi. my 84 strut rods were in about the same shape. Cleaned up nicely with the die. New jam nuts can be bought from Speedway. good luck, gz

That's good news, for sure!  The die arrived in the mail yesterday, just need to pick up some cutting fluid  - not taking any chances on these!

While you are doing the tune-up, did you get stock stuff or the Ford big cap upgrade?  Definitely worth it to do if you're running the AMC ignition system.

No, I just got stock replacements.  Those were ordered after I bought the car in May, before I knew about the upgrade.  I'll see how it goes with the stock system, maybe upgrade later.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 06, 2017, 01:54:32 PM
It's alive!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AI6BiMeJ5mICaMXwFWviCHHiODJ13E99w-QVOvqRc59tO7eITwy4n87S-8C6ZyLhGBamES7ZuILBYof5fpFl7MZPWtkJtJ3k-IVpR5tkPHfrShLWLfQIzGx4klQ8X-JV-VJTQnVJQLlDFnMi77aWO71Tfpk8AuYXrnpPwEnlAxoxDZXRKfJ7D3mvg1kEt42Obu4wVzH997yP_BvWVymTvURooMZ3_hte65mhzd9baULaz_39ocpGHZMZkISgX3zsr-1UrrYihrQg-hdlKxmty0i82AaZN5kbSGeW52MYUs_of-IrCByOrmjMl1vwl6wFtdpWC2Vee57PIluAgqj9bPPdhZ8PWByUxaoNY9ODzMFfyodIE5sFQDMJQpnGyEtvr8XDYkeUWPzdpBJtLqhYJVJVaLH965zw307qJ7nSrMLPxPr8I3dwE0U0mbB57z5I0i6S0y9n-xR69hhKZNlRy5uXuefRssq3rNY5rEJM4z2qc9vCHvZRtrsBCgPn0xhoMhyYd2yjhaiZKsbNHSMTGYBBDnM_RiHF-55guqK0yxKBeBh5zOuVwt5F0UQZUH3WZ1-oBiCR5H7EkIcxslktdBXJZ_nW6aZqHb84jrxPuQ7OqeAtOm7bzHVMJQxj7N1TOudF8UFRtvoYm2Daq571dRbo3VMVMKFlgVAC=w1072-h804-no)

The new carb is in, after running all over town to find fuel hose.  I also did the ECM Test Bypass, thanks to this post: http://forums.amceaglesden.com/index.php?topic=37491.msg305604#msg305604

Starts right up, no fuel or vacuum leaks (yet).  I set the idle to about 650, and it runs a little choppy BUT I haven't set the timing yet.  I only had enough time to throw the test light on there and figure out the base timing is at 4 degrees BTDC.  Then the kids needed some attention and I couldn't get back to it.

I'm hoping to get out there tonight and crank it to 8-9 degrees base timing.  I'm a whopping 15 feet above sea level, so that should be about right.  I really hope it smooths out the idle, I think it will.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on February 06, 2017, 04:26:29 PM
Congrats!  Nice to see your hard work pay off in a car that runs!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 06, 2017, 04:37:54 PM
I'll admit I was a little nervous as I yanked the old Carter carb out, thinking maybe I'd gotten in too deep.  But the new carb really was pretty straightforward.  I just needed a little info from others who have gone before me.  Thanks to everybody who has posted info on the forum, it ended up with a happy ending.

Of course, try explaining all this to my wife.  From her view, it ran before (with the old carb) and still runs now, so what's the benefit?  Thankfully she doesn't mind, and I'm having a lot of fun figuring the car out and making upgrades.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on February 07, 2017, 10:55:36 AM
If you didn't install a new balancer, they are known to slip over time and the timing marks won't be aligned properly. You could always try to get cylinder one at tdc and verify it's correct. I always time by ear. I advance it till it pings under a load like a steep hill which you don't have in FL, and then back it off a hair so it just ever so slightly pings under a heavy load. A vacuum gauge can work for adjusting timing also, if the marks are off.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 12, 2017, 10:50:39 PM
Finally got some shop time today, was going to set the timing  - but the battery was dead.   :banghead:  My iginition switch is "keyless" and turns freely so I accidentally left it with accessories powered last time I was out there.  Oh well.

So I went back to the front suspension work, which never ends.  I was able to clean the threads on the strut rods, not perfect but they will work.  They are a little rough in the middle of the threads, but just fine where the nuts will be.

Here's the condition "before":

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uCItwY4ABlRkH-4X4ma0z1e1fgYlP12KuEDabz5EA-LSN_MNDziNSTOWaoq9nEiCh9hpnwnL4pPeoJQzqP2aciPJq72ra-6b8xaoZq_GAZ1oCb0DZ9i-G6Z66MIZ7lHyV1-OSoUfB5uXoem7C7adNVsrU4KrvyJ20OJfA_muE5rDjVFyq2Z9aEpGet3HGtRmN1l7ge_HzaRHu6Q3AvutNS1noMOFgX6L1gCXp9-l7ARvMOVTZM2yeOcyh-WQL--SHl9NikE-RfFcL4Gya6n1SlhDCaTG5XCvdO7AFvaI_gpd7zabnQrE2iB4Gr48tXFtdfzFl7sAICxoLbgjDsHZAhSIb0kxMDIhhsmFYusq0f9B8VOLF3A3WK8Yy103HdqABRrX6cVkukBCjgLtIBDNFx2JsxGUEeK6KHkT1EbN-C6Kqvhpxi6pVdW04Ctip4P64mNQE0eZNPT1KUszZ6T67aQitqRR8D0dgwcNHRm7WM4WmO8MnWQdasUJk5yhlL--TnhvrUsgAABcyUf4tG3p0dLw5cNgVSFq_0h5M4ae5LhuF5FXYVyEyGznalJrfI_1r8r9W8ppJZx58PvnwHLVT9dH8qvLeT1y2HF55LAS8I2pQ-rGbUC2-Qmj4x8gXSPOeTeql3Fszc7G6dTRwLjidfC2yCa9j_UJG7S_=w1072-h804-no)

and the "after".  Much better!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RhxeXM1LfQUZUkvnBSrR_C8IWRoLXiQRRkidrekQG8bxtd9Wu2Pm4onzACgDsOV7n3gCDPxupsjSzNpwNPkHfPS3xjD2GMCmJ5VwM8EPenZimQYbyXz46WUW9SkAd28c1V2boPhzWPWsPRaohcOdz5asjYKTo3ACRuBSu1r1uHhk_ssTkBu6plbftBPMiAiax0IjMuAQz5NlDB0QDEErOPiouAnp58poTGVPd23uN3RbaY_7Z2T57CIDhJwQJ6vmYzFXaj6b5etMbhdOtftbXnfQgGURfe2Dd_xKIth6wFfqeZBw9gcOmMUqPU7Djp9dnKSeYC7zPCSpzhVHYxhH6dUDsXZijSaRRcYY_BjdSbAwubSWJtPa_ZsHeuy9nGd9hD6Dn_Un41VOXD3qj26jMbRBqCv2wo2GNv5-9zA6PW-2ntFyFTC1DGHHkr124ly6zxmDIHJEVZ6ZmO1yJYL0urAMcn-WdVO_I9V1zgdtS7KTvnzes-35KGF3_cRTzRXnC8ZVLy9dfYPzCWUsedMlzw-CZ5y-9c-JzJY_luYT6fmsVR3AUQYH9ZiTqhML_YuvjY1mWP80lyHbGe7VVSh89KqbnNGjCacfWyFCYWyR39vbnXPebhIq4OIUwKOxPqm0HKtEIWi6LN4fKTgGQZev0ezjDhIwO6i7iInA=w603-h804-no)

I used tons of anti-seize to make it easier for the next guy in 30 years.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HdI-aO73N6-xhplx_mxau0R77itH6qlsSK1voqJ8jqR6oJ7hBdC0coMXaei5l3ZBF5W59DXTSaNGUE5vdAWkRjvlptkgO-onqHEiU_JVBJAK4KMaatafeHNjaC0Ebl0-Dt3Z2XB9ixhRPEk-AKg8gP2B6UvDs_1gOBiiO9MCGS3hHbn8j-CwoO_rK900o7a2vplfzEHBgJAtTvgHPAJrySZVg-DNtWtYitOEamGJFffmOq-WpBkR_eq11J3XikhrPUhrFJ8PijqoLIue1wy03MtQFMZ100wAu8T6gtmiZLc4iHl50SbfUHMM6s94Jq5ENO_eH0fL-SAwsjQlopSB1hI6ka6Zd7WXHmhYpNWARUnbsdLd9FTNhszN4FPDo46DDjjbM7bYs6B4PStsp3jneTiOwH6frjVHVI0FNJXoWohr5_pUKCfn-9Xh5tDsaSRKedZhF0_Y3XhT4S6oy9kANWt58KL_-wLR2uiXYtGiZwFchXstOBMHyuG-It4UJWfSpy3--7QaCa7jJq_utx7oGUjkua3CCZ2UoYm5sTVPndx6GGXT--Cr3Ipu8b0KPbLOU9r83Vooxppq5Z2DZC17C8EYgZon-Yn6oj4ANiXb8oV-lbMIAlq_bmw2jbNJonazCORtcrNaU50-wueYlLQpaZyq4eNjiMIm4U1I=w1072-h804-no)

Wasn't too bad to get them in.  I used the floor jack under the rod to get the new rubber bushings lined up correctly.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7r88Bpkrw_39UenSFuTKcdAuBkSkH4exXST-o43o5hqLAev9V0iOduBtKFRKM9yioUaH8HOtyzXsIbJ2DfYuq7ELGOGTLXPyZPR3MhAI3zNZmxIjRpi3nIhcnrEnPfKxzX1np5HLsmApvC7VgtF_bKYaSxIGFfiAHLiiY0-vgUGSH4pYGtOuvl2RIg16Ff-MoOrhs5Nd8A2ZsdulYb21AtHwrU6U96ts7uII1A9W5g_SNra-svJ4UMnAjaHVWOqn4QBMD-g2PkzQU_BvvhPekit76l-Xi_YCXb0x03OCixovelf8DjtmXhY6Sv07c_Nup5w3KQUtfIJxCk91M55-uirl_c-jseArtiuSQVh5ApkJdAhib8zbe3jEVIwjLeqnGPBPjbtT_1RRpglbyhTjYGmpdnWmOUqAWlkrZKXvQj-TlnOsppCVZLUMN5oTBzY7NxjEnsgAbu6SNfL6TRASjCVqkP77imMrmOMp0jbguU6ImET1Z53JpAxebVrZHQYd4AZrI39dNsqwuAu3sU-NNzLpgBNZOrFa9kmyynbWrJdbtsLRoLb3IYgmWOc7oklUYkxq5eeKC3o3Yeia1oWIrthCY5oKk88JyruWzMoVNXthWHKMTZYM-tGKMs31ij1A7Wt22dqH1XtA4pYogcH4Bc3enhSrLiSfENA=w1072-h804-no)

Those with sharp eyes will notice that the CV/Half-shaft boot is wet in the picture above.  It got pinched when the suspension went to full droop, when I was putting in the new springs.  It's leaking something that appears to be gear oil, and a LOT of it.  What the heck??

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zImI9mbEnW_QbGX0mPuh2oV9GgA7qbh7gN-TM-JNGFC5-Jpd_m8Tp5rr9JUVzE0MTLaWfq5e7W8m484gDgm60qwsGmigWi5LkqsWQlFb5E4ph9WSnY3rRolEIciFss3Xe1NblDHVR8HOGCHXxKW1DKGyMj2Bl1ZFVonLT7CRsTvftOG8i7eFAEGrgO3IkBqvMNfk5ihY-CmaPNNZ1qAOG6oy8W02p_O1UpAdz0Kyty2WBX1QAz6mMV5KtSmNazzK2TrXqZ8v0WYOsnA9IES-HDujEalpUdlhqtGM9A21Eldms3ySueoPrBC_6Pq97rslqx4ys9RzIbs8QctEjf8sDZcYprZy0hBVBrXHc7hz2_ZAkOApTGBi-SITmFcy98hde6QbVwLCgMA_XKCPCMdLWV98LmjfoHqK5hQ0gDnmUpd4L-vNpMp4Yl58HUpo7DrX8xRoX3j7KSdMM2asmBHQWhKEESWOKXhEj2R_6t5U-M2SX1g2Hx6qQzwpi4jdmfktgffbYu9OagofVB8tS5rpgBiK_7JwATFJQ69nEtx0bQ3NxaPwPGnbT0HSvHcie-4KeMB7l4N68h854AhgB92mZogTKEUXkBTdeY2SdNLsKHfBUnxDvikmwJYEwlO6nsBEfchNg9LfCWH9yNlJoaxjjQY_cnqp_ajWQCn7=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Izhuf4dh13GzQ9xNg7fetY0blNOEQcH3LEDdShyuP0_oM804Xrps-dFrPj3bOL5wnTuSWyy3mcl7e6EL3TF95kftNiXSk6l9YEvGrwJbYLtNvcEcuFwUBrnThzhT9HfoieVlODcrwTbN6u_977jdhzS6bT495CSnaPMVlrvc76AErlMBmOQXp6JHy-9uY4EcjzDNwwd2eT6SLmIGOuwBnXkaa88iH9RnU6orMnPYUDE9L-Pe_Aq0XlO7e1L0ObVKwqmd0mdAJt_P1UUBdLN6MmCKY4-NaPnFX1ru6Mho3GlanvDdiRyZcWc0O7wCj8ciVCvWjTRCuQdpCNo21lD4rIFIIGKY7ZtQ19WzERLf3NS2rw0Q-5GJv4bBfkV0vKuN-hVW7_Y6WQFTrmSvS9lQyEfvMG_hdPNjXuyLWB4QeglA8Khsgkbtn8X1p07Mf63nRbhtK2c4kaI7hs1bQ5An3ZjJ8MOR08aZRB3o8abLTOrlgoAYZoFydI9FK1bpUgs6JkUijXlJ8zMtpCyyxXCuMiUYDbRIW-tZR_TKVYTVIFsL2P9P_541JHQQvhe6hUDHqAvDByzBx2IfehJG_le62zoyNQ8qNnZ1uxsvOIXE0A0o7AmAB97h67HJyjjI4Pa4-BQCvwmfLs5Mw7SMC0k1-SqoThsDryjSmUPm=w1072-h804-no)

I haven't looked at the diagrams of the axle yet, but my best guess is that an axle seal has failed and gear oil has filled the boot.  Does that sound right to you guys?  Or is there a way for fluid to escape the axle when the half shaft is over-extended?  It was at a pretty severe angle during the spring installation.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on February 13, 2017, 09:23:07 AM
It might be just on my end, but I can't see any pics. There is no way for the gear oil to get into the boot. The cv axle bolts to a flange and there is no way for gear oil to seep in via a seal. They put a lot of grease on the tripod joint and especially since you're in warm south FL, some of the grease can liquefy.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: carguy87 on February 13, 2017, 09:44:53 AM
I don't see any pictures either, I was definitely hoping to though!  +1 on grease, they load them up for sure, and age and mileage turns it to liquid.  You can get a universal boot repair kit with a fresh boot and new grease or go with a new CV shaft to repair it.  The new shaft is far easier than messing with tearing the joint apart, cleaning, repacking, and reassembling.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 13, 2017, 10:35:24 AM
Hmmm, not sure about the pictures.  Have you been able to see the others I've posted lately?  They are hosted on Google photos.  I made a change to the image links, please let me know if you still can't see the pics.

Thanks for the notes on the "goo", it's really liquid so I assumed it was gear oil.  I dug out my manual and can see what you are saying about the flange, eaglefreek.  I guess that's good news, that I don't have to worry about an axle seal.

I will likely replace the whole shaft assembly, thanks carguy87.  Doing just the boot sounds like a pain in the neck.  Maybe I can keep the old shaft as an emergency backup, if I can figure out a way to refill a little grease and plug the hole in the boot.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on February 13, 2017, 12:56:48 PM
Those with sharp eyes will also notice your strut rod washers are backwards. The way you have them is limiting the rubber movement. Also could be a harsher ride.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 13, 2017, 02:29:08 PM
Those with sharp eyes will also notice your strut rod washers are backwards. The way you have them is limiting the rubber movement. Also could be a harsher ride.

Thanks MudKicker!  Well, I guess that proves that the photos can be seen, at least!  :-\

Hmmm, now I'm really confused about the strut rod washers.  I'm confident I put it back the way it was before, but that's not always the right way.  Time for research!

A Google search didn't help me.  Looks like there are many examples out there of using the washers both ways across many other AMC cars.  I see that many use the washers with BOTH cups facing toward the rear of the car.

Let's look at the service manual! My MR251 has a three different diagrams of the strut rods.  Of course they don't all agree.  Ugh.  First two seem to show the washers installed with the cup toward the bushings.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z5JVKC2Z7zyRaEkVscjIkT0Tu6xLQFVwJfg5WICnS4Vi0SWsH09EM2Lb-ySoECj8OvFZhyXtU_Z91DXTsTP044DBlDGHsmL9TO8-oUUAWIiwjBy_Ahn9yydg8OIqDViSJ2j2-nTdu8glBjLNmEm6QAyNQkKoCOBQRmCSK6PVcB1AY2Jao_OK4VlKLGKtKmgRwjM-6vNxNTxxhfJW40Lr6m1T2R69XxWO2wqzlCBoiCV7SFuDqRdIfywvh57jhCM3Ufkl82Jf4_kTri-8Baxz4G8x5c0QF9liJ08f0mOE96YNyPIVEylCFQaWTtFiaf0EUkCP0tJ2uQChPr0GmfE2_n_i69FzoZ19btvgOno3ymd6Wh9ooleG-4EpGNaO119qylGPE9NKT-WRwLdohrZfPW792WWIoStie7YuQ09fiZoH1o6Dl0kTXCPZa9SZuGFW6NJazDdetsoiQ_A4kLUVV0YNG6SQ4WaJdiaY6n-GQGM5CpJxgRVGCZ6XxKfYUG8sMvIrVelZujuycxhqbUI1UCVlFHYlfbzfJ-oSfs8XasWG8pkrUq419Jiwy8IOCcJhhAeBY99wlKuZIzYtS-PfwDtmgiWgRGolNrgYShcCQVs=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VClkx_M4Rs0hHNTmKftwh7jbDEr6qfHp0L6GZHb1pC1aWG4y5QchwXxe8v_buX2MazZuhhYOy6yG6bzPr14p6NjwRwozh5r7p8P4SE0qdqiMFJWd6jRLSKbFxrwd3QftvPRRCIgAGhDm64DakTsRxzniyHbCJDlgVjJatESZtQY2UnuPJJBgBn6IjJl5vvOvy0xKsiaoKPHEvWwoqW8RXH037i53j1OEqbY2r3ziRS_V6mkehdYui1sxlDn4e4M5V0_vxgaM2mD_R9ZS2p7MNk6dRdXylAqwRvd0KJYEttRKhMU1uVdenwkRH6TeVNwIWF6ShOB6wM2XUL1h7l3ATNMTX_YQk7tDyDTFlXsrbZlbQ22DAo2i3LS3mwClIFJ6GWCG_iF8TZYfGbooLc957hPLgxcLCWT70TmAWDeZaEjW1cUE01U072XFNCTWUfcA5qc8I5ghb5658VagCAVAryu783nAtAaZlxDdnATBhRurb8u0EGhqFIkkjX5bAwHLaTxb4eFqrVDU7oveB7o25oa3YEMxHtj879XhR1Ka91Rd86vGtOEvew9ncBWpD8-NSXBK3j9KlRbhia2le8m45TdGe1yQ3jFfCFe6geo67EM=w461-h346-no)

The third diagram below seems to show a one-piece bushing with a cupped surface, and the washers with the cup facing the nuts. 

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/b7osRxguMnpZGKjDoB3sCCCInvQKvf86w_L13cgbXxv5iT4CKcKUy5VElp0YTKp-b2kU11emOyQlMVhyVc3lzqAgoGxSEYvmbymTfwr8sgjcmawrH2uJ1buSS0faBgMw0JKX2dIk6WYvY6-sh1NzlcTekvgSlTed3v_5BWV774m6zQfM_B7RJ3bgPyesouDco14WdVVwn6z8dgaHh0_9wAlaoW-JZnW15H3xFwYjP_4Ilk1AYXacZ9tgd1wCbgEeEwJWcmCGJ9rfzdwgHZMCnrf-85txJyCS9wFnNUzfn7vdneLHPRIjCpudBlnvmYR2-k4hAXDPAflXkEwIxZE_J_vM-L_-0rE2iCQ0ABQ4Eb0fWGMjYddMg-M6R4FFY5W6fcLVbTK_oOMXbf5uJqYNqf-p4Jk100Y7yhL5GnLVTek57XR3xfHQRX-OuZWrYprash_seEWA4nuIZYsfyGTTDkMGlesPGoa5yalfE-LBBcGm_bhoEUqHDJopfvyv-qfO8Xsedm--WrXWXIBktK3zOCw3ht6SFt3CBg4xD6YYHc4Wxa-l9ByqybBAFyNft8Kjzy7XXN9_VhltPFb4gJupqNdrma74XmIyCdrTnFndWuM=w1072-h804-no)

The AC Delco bushings I have are two piece, and look more like the first two above.  Finally, this link to the epedia shows only one side, but it does match the way I installed them. http://amceaglesden.com/guide/Strut_Rod_Bushings_Re_%26_RE

Looks like 3 out of 4 sources have them with cup toward the bushings, and the 4th seems to be a different one-piece bushing style.  I think I'll leave them alone and watch the bushings carefully to monitor for damage.  If I see any problems I can flip them later I guess.

Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on February 13, 2017, 03:07:11 PM
I'm not sure when suspension using strut rods came into existence, but they were used on many Fords and also there is a bit of confusion about the washers. If you scroll down, you'll read some info about Mustang strut rod bushing washers. http://www.thecoralsnake.com/SUSPENSION.HTML
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 17, 2017, 12:14:35 PM
I'm done with the Carb upgrade!  Yay!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gmSWNpM7-tnCtPVNOQkjJBmzeaut7hVD4Vq69nA2RKuZ5TiP5RpPPApSmhJ6-4DYPIctBzvehESov_WxliZsUXq-lXRZB8t2SleAojZGZPlLEgP0UN9yf6ODcapW0HPS1fefcUzR_Y2KeLAvh0hHhSWzNIGaKUp6NlQwhQwvZ3cXVyPJSbRvk1Uk5kqfVUBFiejVk6bzdzXIik4d_MN42hZQy9DdsovYKgZaF0pial_BEEByBbRy-pazN3g_CtlHiTRCWRNje25QiUQGluhtXQABMN628wxL8nvKZ7153za5bcetzVo69QLiKpyff-YUhPjagm9uAqUj2zX1Y-HQE--RPmkzH0IVZrsQ3ilbLtbmHpTRiwv_Uxvn9vs0XFv6i7Q8p7wTgBEQ92wuyZQfnWawNKqdN6wtLvslDVJVcyEo4lK9hSafGVJsz9xX0CwRcTl1crLF9cjXWVD2seG36iNJV9maS5PrnbDVzr15iZZpSaoy6EsRAGeSHkI9lpgjRhA3dgQadlME74Fm4RXlo98oEL-vwIGg2-1irAScSqqI2CNRomTeEmZ7F8In5m4_pvgjirqvf_-ITHSU-C2D0qXC5aDPauJwd6v6C452YOcSaRuh4LOOKi26DlKeZietJ9mUlzAmcNtNXrXLfQIJZsCCsgQ17sNXOX9r=w1072-h804-no)

Seems like every project on this car gets to about 95% done and then the last 5% takes forever!  But the carb is done.  I set the timing, confirmed that the mechanical and vacuum advance are working, and spent some time cleaning up the engine bay.  I took out all the obsolete vacuum lines and taped up the wiring that was abandoned from the Carter carb setup.

Nice to check this off the list!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 20, 2017, 01:47:47 PM
Well, shoot.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vJUQaFtxV1wKcbYXzcssqhkpTvy0bXYXLfrzyaiIrvdpjB3tk-gVuto7pf5AIgIcC4zdv4xV8f8eDpFYpNfPfwvMMVnKdotMZqWGHXZR91ruBK0tcuDMWp6mjUCtu7uFe5FrRQlP0kPvsZ09PiGEDJgzt4zW2P-cEjIHVSCohA8iyhCMjGamucH7bqlDdx1OShfcHPQoYNLDAK5sMkILgYdnjN7wN5kjV_7SghgQcp7JBba3a18BinPSoGrYDGeC3AenWro8OQuDpBjTyyLPVMwUnFbdgXNevu0CjwKLMO1VEjm-DhUoiI4rh2uKPmYjixCPOzLCfU04czyGzU_RPJteJwv87hWwQaZmOncri7YROrCH3OWW60QnOjjdkOz27U4XPZ6GUH4toCORGMOS284mGV3eQ1ZERgKy20skUUcngqlJTVGZSNBVAAzVeQtwPqBE9706mCEzzTlgPzTn0FRpH5LDvfnYOGQsxN8Xhs9zW-E01mB4A2Mzz9lDXV5h76CGAdkHKmpaJMMmr4pfqrZBeLyZ1r6995C9RWP2M6OHUDkIcl745ADtZqyFIDahYo54IocY8lclVBr4fk2UJVakDSW8eV_RjRb-SV_9QHEkSMMElVOazy_XZK9SIifU-cJ02HTKHn0zRTlAfomadq2NV9q4Jrpcni0U=w1072-h804-no)

The plan for a 2" rear lift was to put in a Jeep XJ add-a-leaf.  I took it apart over the weekend and found that the right side was busted at the bushing.  I'm surprised it didn't come out!  Maybe this explains why the rear flare on that side is all chewed up - maybe the axle has wandered in the past.

Looks like I'll need to get new spring packs.  I hear ESPO has them, anybody got a better idea?

I also broke a bolt on each of the rear shackles, so I'll need to source those also.  Fun!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on February 20, 2017, 02:35:19 PM
hi, I recommend www.stengelbros.com, in PA. they sell different gauges. get the extra heavy duty springs, they will lift up the rear end nicely. good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 20, 2017, 04:54:04 PM
hi, I recommend www.stengelbros.com, in PA. they sell different gauges. get the extra heavy duty springs, they will lift up the rear end nicely. good luck, gz

Thanks, just talked to them and got a quote.  They didn't have shackles, so I'll need to find those somewhere else.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on February 20, 2017, 05:59:09 PM
hi, the stock Eagle shackles are unobtainium, may have to rework a Jeep set, do a search for shackles from TEagle here, to get an idea what can be done. good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mo.eagles on February 20, 2017, 07:46:12 PM
I had some made at a local spring fab shop . But that was last century , in '94 I think. Or do like amcfool1 suggests.  RockAuto has the springs and bushings in stock .
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 20, 2017, 10:15:05 PM
Well I made the mistake of looking on the forum for other options for rear leafs, just to get another price.  I found a thread from 2008-2010 with a bunch of folks saying that they had bought leafs from ESPO, KCSPrings, McVeigh that had all quickly flattened out.  Ugh.  This is old info, but I hate to risk it.

Looks like the Stengel Bros may be the best bet.  I'm also on the trail of some CJ7 shackles, it looks like they might work.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Draekon on February 20, 2017, 10:18:39 PM
I got new shackles from ESPO. They didn't have the stock length but had compatible ones that were 1 inch or so longer which results in about a half inch lift

I got my leaf springs from Stengelbros. It's been about 4 years and they've held up (not many miles in those 4 years though)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 20, 2017, 10:31:09 PM
I got new shackles from ESPO. They didn't have the stock length but had compatible ones that were 1 inch or so longer which results in about a half inch lift

I got my leaf springs from Stengelbros. It's been about 4 years and they've held up (not many miles in those 4 years though)

I really appreciate that feedback.  Always good to hear from somebody who has actually been there.  If you have 4 years without sagging, that's great.  I wouldn't think mileage would matter too much, anyway.  Most cars sit for 23 hours a day anyway.  Beating them up on a trail is another level of abuse, but I think I can deal with that risk.

Between new leafs, different shackles, and the set of add-a-leafs I bought before I knew my springs were busted - this math is getting too complicated!  I may end up doing some experiments once I have all the parts on hand. At least there are options!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 22, 2017, 02:02:01 PM
There is a big Jeep parts store about 20 minutes from me, down here in Florida.  I went over yesterday and made their counter guy show me every shackle and hanger they had in stock.  Walked out with some Jeep CJ parts that should work on my wagon.  The counter guy was laughing, saying "I really didn't think you were going to find anything when you walked in."  Nice!

Here are the old hangers and shackles.  The top bolt on both shackles sheared off when I took them apart.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/C1XxYSoi0judE93CzhF0A4bTMi0Mw5iKAFfYfoxiHS0uelJXIAyL8BMIb8Wp4V8oZZq3OG2QMsCRmwNeFhe1RTZ2wtkK484J6yofo84MoJ1mx85aV1Z7BLIsUu8uUYHim5xaqLOhV992UGqwXsP1QFSoqVbK2GxHUisvsoeAKW9hX7jOfzHgAiNEfHHG9kTeK_L52f3UMWn9Hiqi6zgQbfYeYs-cZffoh3MFkfSp9i2EK2wzcEYTkaqGkGnRLsVSbTh9G5TUetBkG_lZAsK2L75A-TT6cZB5Us-O-LSpVtIrPewrs7-xJW-0tX2iMgnnwWcqjLVwzOx-30CQolSeT71MfqV3se3gVpHPbNkOu4GXYKojrUll9pU3L0f8NliUjP2AjDyEduhSgdilkkqtqkIiIZB3mTyY-CUAvzgUqwhIHK9G8Ntle9sM8bs1uzu-wL3vdNkX-8F7phcc9jxLqIvWh_5x-37qIAgPYXXeClUfm0NE4_NCN5EBSMSJ-8tY-Vqt-e_9z2M-MKYmlEDf37ZtpRI1SMpWBvrnXgpU53vUKanmckSn-PbJ83AHA1ZEhMVMlTMd0K5_8lJuD1yf8LqbCX1cPta8rBYJ__Xo2X6nCQu7mYwmaq4hHeUBiajBxnEZ4SrZPTmfLJYp3rIwMc5cMlgOmyXjxTGP=w1072-h804-no)

Here are all the Jeep CJ7 parts, my Frankenstein solution.  UPDATE:  These shackles didn't work for me.  Read the next post to find out why.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jx1YojdvV0kRxC16kajUBfH-jIKCuEdfCwtjpM4HbnZJZyWs10NeNKX83uLZ5zBo-Fu5SgEcetHfkVgg4HJ1SvG8RqFGTKPOC1d_5JxNZWLl7DmFzzbuBozktziDEu0Fw8mpc0XzUDuIMglmgJytSlDobEClSgEgXtB5qW4p6_55xVKSVBTQc29-Vdo8o8cpPnroYwWRJoUqm0TA6sf3STHmhjJT6ES5MyQxVyAJxU_NWxvS9ZZCA-rM8ytIKRiwWywnpDSVYmLvMqGAUdZiTYWLbvFDG5_3_EQCtNy92wsAGTUW1JEyuQwddocJ-SqyReSzbsATVyk4zo4WoS69oilulE4qUw-jdJPEma1uSUL8h9EQY2ttzCbqc4lWBRzidUacbqX2dE6nf4ZJnST-w9iawD7k8F_e1zU6110PMe2ilj2O4CF4Xq7XhNedu0ozKtavxM_QI0j1tpNamYEsuRX8uo8xF6LMV3YcsAQPNWiGg5tyn8rPXgu81TAkMfVVCH-k-yxIu30aUplhpe4tc5XplZWTKjhWxfyjyBBYxQHZpaJOfxchSAmLBaULKHLhrpXNEtjm2HNQEQDjlVw87DCnqGjcZ1czZu92b9ZhITHme0f7fHtenoMsqcVd0HA2JOKiExV6VWVCw5dlYn7BxhcKveDeqcAMM4DT=w1072-h804-no)

Stock CJ shackles are 3" between shafts, and Eagle wagon is 3 1/2".  These CJ shackles are advertised to raise a CJ7 by 3/8", and they are 3 3/4" between the shafts.  That's the closest I could find for the Eagle.  UPDATE:  These shackles didn't work for me.  Read the next post to find out why.

The Eagle shackles are narrower at the top (why, AMC, just why?!?!) but the Jeep CJ versions are straight.  So I got a CJ hanger bracket also.  The hole pattern is different but it can be redrilled to the Eagle pattern, there is plenty of material.  Should bolt in place.

All the bushings are stock Eagle specs, and I confirmed on RockAuto that the uppers are shared with CJ7's.

The shackles were $36 for the pair, and the hangers were $16 each.  That's $70 I didn't want to spend but the new stuff is a lot heavier so I will be happy in the long run I think.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 23, 2017, 03:33:59 PM
Good news:  The CJ shackle hangers worked after I redrilled some new holes in an Eagle pattern.

Bad news:  The huge CJ shackles I found (above) won't work.  There isn't a lot of clearance between the hanger and the channel where the rear bumper mounts.  The new hanger is wider too, which makes it even tighter.

Here is a mock-up with the stock Eagle shackle installed upside down.  My thumb is covering the busted bolt which started this whole thing.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qwTwh_AUi7GC1IkH6M7OSskogbXu1hZsfIXkGz4GlJupqWcxGEm8dG3SBPC-hvbtPIxLONQpfxQxeyd97NoFfqA4LxFGJ3DtHmURLMNpXPIKazE4iJFX5pnS4LBCrl6sznQF4bA29moR_eFlrN1H41ruj1JrCPZICr8JyD8QS1QsgZ1kJONncc0hR2aRN3P2s5-PPUR4ZvctWqC1J269XM4oHJYZcTuAD1q_41RPxiTMuJZspdQGlfA1AKChSU6uEl1VxxGOQ5hbn9nNSAj7y3GnlKFSFyyyn-CCT4rpwLqYAV60rA3OW4cP8se0d194Y-Y1U_0_RvnaDQrM4XZCqbjNXFea1Uadz5wibKiJXjs3jNYe218K5cyMQS3APKqCbcjFND0rQrmARb0bCFKNYn5-FtVAk1C16w9IN-liaUCnHodqhUCWvCkrPQUl4eY6_iw3QjbrOze_rGxWoPfL8oq5Br0nGjrV1hhAugsv9h8KC-VuhZs3_wGvx450jRMASEH1EBVPskaOcFfpncvTyTK4C-2u-AzKbaoDq23ogJSLWrP9LxzZF-g-hyBWJnM4sYjRLTHNkid7Djvxb0HXRiYh5I0LJMYRaNTvBtekUmuePmxq4Qpvuie4XB6PYrMl0HwNVhgN9_UZ9TO7SiJFi4Y-qVNteKhq0oCo=w1072-h804-no)

Only a stock style shackle with a pressed in pin will fit without surgery.  In fact, the shackle rubs a little so I'll need to take a BFH and create some space in that little area of the body.  Even 1/8" should do it.

I went back to the parts store today and swapped out the fancy shackles for a bone stock CJ7 shackle.  It's 3" between pins, so it's shorter than the stock Eagle shackle by 1/2".  This should create a 1/4" drop for the Eagle, but that's as close as I can get without doing some custom fabrication.

I ordered a set of springs from Stengel, and I still have the Jeep XJ add-a-leaf kit too.  I would return it but the shipping charges would be more than I spent on it!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on February 23, 2017, 06:56:16 PM
I'm having trouble seeing the first picture in your post two times ago and then also the picture in the last post you made. It's just a big circle minus sign but looks like there should be an image showing.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 23, 2017, 08:48:44 PM
I'm having trouble seeing the first picture in your post two times ago and then also the picture in the last post you made. It's just a big circle minus sign but looks like there should be an image showing.

Argh, they are fixed I think.  Strange, I swear I'm using the same process every time.  Thanks for the heads up!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on February 24, 2017, 07:53:08 AM
It's weird for me. Sometimes certain ones show up and others don't or they all show. I use different devices and it happens on all of them.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: ChickenFarmer3 on February 24, 2017, 08:34:35 PM
I'm about to do new leaf springs.  I am hoping my shackles are in good shape.  Good luck on your replacement.  I will be following.  An Egg for you!!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 25, 2017, 02:48:19 PM
Looks like I have my shackle problem solved. I ended up using bone stock Jeep CJ7 shackles and hangers.  Hangers had to be re-drilled in an Eagle bolt pattern.  Shackles were about $12 per side, and included bushings too.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dpb8w8RLc7DDuvM5M8n6YeMG8doxCr4SQ9n_8yKg8NGWoasuXUW4kFnVX4uhGtlG_0Loi7i6ek26uOUPn0aFfviOpjEJAUzqaogEbTIZPt8xz74q2Y1vB7fg58RDgRBkTlVL37bo1goiZTnhOwKhacO-GrnN0g5davjmNTViH9GWW1jDSU0i4ObiofPZMUrBL-dZ_nzFP_sI2RANrUkhn-XnpOZ3S4BVkoFQNDda70Ma5e9SjrYjINEqGf2P8QZMVm2_p4GzaeE8bSdj0Iq5Z-P20ma5KwYQk52m6IVGWY2IijoSM_R3idcCfpvRhfYM_FeoDxSwe8dkNYzvRZZQhkH7M-50WaNM5Qa4BQeqJJ2VVPxzi7RxcVLG6qNnxlfgqhRMU4pEkjCjSZrQVsj3DsOUDidJzvadJ9MCgV2RxVErkjy61LhC3Rh6Ecrq23ehpFMC3IpXpIvdy20m_yYd8FK9lXJvo-BQMryCMF5i6w8HNcubHrXnd8zZTaEhOrJIVpk0RKKa0ym2NfMIqc-wiZJi8Ipz5yFVuRhLxbRYjzbEMpryHzGfqBuseM17xLVy0SvpT9PK1nl7LRUfhO7MS98YwR6q32okHJvs8RFx1nOlf3W6K_9ZAqmvsh-PMh4XLbwwXCYiysxwagw0VTFldDqskFvjA67h_rlI=w603-h804-no)

The CJ7 hangers and shackles are wider than the Eagle, so I had to create some clearance.  I tried a large hammer, but access is tight and that channel is pretty strong.  I ended up using a grinder to get in there and cut out a square roughly 1.25" in size, just enough for the head of the shackle pin.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EQvhG857i6nMl-RhLny6L6OzFlFxUKFVDcU5mstbjTU5QcxkJzC7Y3zrfb99mIVTFTRARt-5ht3UWNdkA9bD36u_860fJ48pf9aGDCC-NAf0IOrsoct9yFd5bX9QxJ46afAzUTWJr13N49TEaXzuAaPSshQCTadH4d_yfRD-4lXnwAjFzhEPqF_GXIF8GbhB3H7jRYv0mRGd3ZSoR0kownHTrQnmEH68GWORgNh6ybP2nA6nVR6Y6KD37Uv7wI8mVNWbaedZTWy_a9wBwCZjTbC70pWOJcppKy4E2CMtwVtzNsiYPYLAWyVAgPlN0llD6H3fdROq7KBA-xwYzcixyn_WegM1xzKKFWHC1XfPrjyzdv5vqo2GvO83Ykf8QVKAwIkojEjaAjBcIvLGbRK98s8eCY3pVan6MajZdPcPxkAKaK4PulWTQNAWvOAZAKV6b_-_9e80LtDcp0_qaQoKG6aYv161S5lA4RJmhWRuWSQFS8W1DBRvp9tQNM66BLIAO57YzYup0O9mxtbdSi9FxRJxmsJOeOUXBhBcwwtzRztZmmc4KqT9ZHXaRwULeGMEzjPbfkM4YnnMmyv1lqHAop4kcMG86v2IXGt7ZhiyJeLOCrcCgvvbTQ-pI1pHQ2xopDaIPELQA8FpDJGwHAUEvy2-2j0QebbHEIgG=w1072-h804-no)

That tube inside the channel is the rear bumper support.  Amazing how clean it was in there.  I hit the area with some paint, trying to keep the rust away.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/t59waJ7oe3bPPjzhIZrvt8t-8GU7P-zY4lnTNVw2T4bNjkdbg9_Ul7X5Gl6_z-AoXymr7OqYCIu5A2jEHqRTUQZY-q4Mknem9T_iWWEOUlLbx6T0XZIP6W88xLBS5FgAuTPLq92IyW0B6PTc9EfYPjokBGWm-FILetL1HegO8wAgrLLOaKcfM8u0JSGnxGRsjoJ3N-SV-5GThj2yI8EdOQ1OkGrckHk_Zmo75W-lMBBC82vSFjnmMq7RG35_xua2l2p_phAg9cz0fsbdDF3BAMK5RqPPbw0k_Mn1T72HI9-gQ2kkWQuKzBgpY_AWWhHU0ls7JimpvJXPUIm79Zv3FaLv6xU9I-BWefuEyOgDbRyJEhKgvIoZ_nf6wD02uVJuKW3ap-TtGZRO1m_rmeiK9uU4l514SGMaXwPFqh6k-8-NAjLdazIOyM8n4NQ4jczLcZfdJkwJayStzAsSrlAkHtjGYQVodtr3WCNMdPy8RpT1HJ58CCmwK_-P6dwRekBj4fmrwjjsapdpOwG8fH8e-sXv92Pv8fweJiri20DOL78mcJzvOdg-UtHLDsWYRdT3Klh3gc9jYG6peddwVstXrqpVVb7LsX49Nq2vBwn8S1FAaAf1uGo49QWqixvRnPOWWYLR1c5TyY5Jv41uMa3Xg-7ju6q_RND8V51B=w1072-h804-no)

 Not my best work ever, but it will be fine.  Waiting for my new springs to arrive, and then I can bolt it all back together.

In the meantime, I removed my Class II Hitch and hit with a wire wheel to clean it up.  The original paint was falling off in sheets.  A quick coat of epoxy paint and it looks much better.  Of course I had to cut a couple bolts to get it off, so I'll need to get some new hardware.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FPRaxMNMQ3TqLFcGUqvR0APhtRzvbOk1bNOPethCt3qrZNUoGlnPl-TsJ7CIJAHBj6BvU_THM-BnHhagb3jBKdiwTH2GgZOh1UBAJ_ZnuIA7EtardL6Gv9fuOvLDV-VXXgf3oG-4_Dq1h0GWuodfK3VU2DhFVbdh8m_UZkbnU9ypskQPUCRDAj0VSw1t77AE3zqRq_RDbwERYv3UTQH8WgWvU3M0Wua1sV2LCj-5kM1G1YLH9I9ng9VZz4CK4rRphd2RRQIxn1qzd28e7EQ_GKyaPlBRlImejX0BvKsabl9g5aIuiYLoxIbikEX3FHdXzZd0lO5iZXr9RfzO80cz8ks7fgKIDyq-wNLfLx1IxmBmTfKY_xN_eA5kk6PMk4XDxA2lHSmYOJCOGilwABjNeDFef095bmgYZe8V9OqpZ0cx9PXCNdO6zhQ3bi9ATHA0ANoodPx_MNBl8KMW87HaWXBorxa7TtD1-1_Lg7ZgtNtFyJi1PL6YpH-V8q6ZKjSvVNHV-5PNyXacXEdSR9dxTKXVGgRV3fnzTiJupCCyJDkMQJ3HiOTS9sgK8cTKd9hwRxkN0-rOPR4TJ2LRNG62Ak3o4xXlyLsKkVpcaO6NK50nsvTNHS_X9MB_VjGRkNj5PEUZzYe9_4aXXyITTh3d6bJ8c2dOfSE0TZqz=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yG4Z1yBo1tdoiHGuvNvW1qv7ErXaxYpXZbFD0iJM2gu7YS7eM7zwS0EbAEg2ofWwp8iZGnmCg_VrEeWPRSNBGZsK6A-iNrrGYYBIzqw4DNDch1WPN3ClH4GdrUq-axq_gzGO8O2luuWngCQm_c3avLVdG2zMThk343vpW0TjOb644vmBQVgUWz4nIJ9agClhMjrQrwDu1FFdidg5Au88SkOYA8Hx4iaavH47fmrE5IoboXaHYyzvPQAqfprUG0vRji8lRg3apX8YkiL5HVaqQ1vsrkVsEBbAGEoTGNWLbki-qhUg56mNP0G_enuxdbT1vnqyiJUaFplxpVbNutcoxMSUCR1_ybBMD8M_7TdY21EaE6sxtRcOrgLMjjeKE6a3GxN7RXwHRgVqJYNqbCHbu98Zv6vj_S6Eaxe9NVvjyGrxzKYEFoh4p7zyjEJjJYjkOBxly93eOBqwG6ooYSc68k-MaRoQoIrsTrJr0qyWLRj1ETsda4h60AtbsEFEykamZkFmalpl6RTCZuxITG7Tr5Ha781qBZYtjFTy6XIqKFyrdQCfWmSkc-UBFtoRnqFRi0Gf_WsznzRfigIMdUoWzcoNE473uxAxaqDMB5GENQdk9TpKlLjfUIt4MOu7uiNMRjtNe_KFH7RagZ_cM2BVBqInsQ1IERl5Ykns=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iIMzG9eLwxvqq67pMBjBCwwB5fKcOyaCRQVphssK1bO_Ktwlz5KDRqPMNneGxdfQBUuDOSSUNEtuI-FamAlxRLxehePSIlSTUEis7DksSTUgD9LPj_z5MxwieyIqBr4g82L5KVBnIXuogqQ_uOsUlwQRH9kqDbpqporHMNjGBGxrdxcEIEWb-tp5ljmYEZw7M5c8P1rGvEkjfO7KLupnVCeD-e7ibiXVik9bTUSwsYeF6Qf9VdZPlDw2uqiYVsXOYQ96Ek7mTVoW7wVKYMF78Za641gVyFKugB7XKEBtOk5rU45hHirtMhxV3CB7iC760IFmnQWdUgu5gPmPQMOsDYSo_XMXFYV_5CLAqv2Dko6CJibZILpb8ukiDMVhJ3HAW_dZ8feKL_sOLaBCXaM7uElJ7hCljf-VtfLZBaCKYdwYTmkv_Q2LW-RvfMT2kVfr6Vr5iWv3mLmkZC4L6xXLda60llsySsuntwuzftUae4k0xZ0Tq7WgVRHjZzfQ40Icuoiam5OejSr5l3XiUlnUheDM_XdnE4ejX5TT97X3GRw92Iv8yo7-EBEqSqn19VncmMPJvdHA3CA7kjDMTKYVNPatdrlCb3EuBz3t32EiH63-Ke5zT4NY6hB6Z-Jy0cHRB8NiJNrQD284N7sYuuIxocSJo5J7yaag2kxT=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QFCSa2QsVDWXbTB1Yb8wE9n_nj34GiWTRGhtpt88RpofdmPqNsyQjHzw4OBhlTCyrYe_JioRdtCugUvoBDu3IUKy6fF0RmyRRzUydSH5Ug8DBOWCFJL7sa2N2j09uQYn2tS4KZm75mH2vJpmwXEYTZVrMleExs2nSLFAOC28dvtinH_KpGf0rP67JoBIZ4qJ7IKHTxX3HqaOKJ_QE3aaGj5xM0Gdf9kWO7FIjKj4BLJyIQgAVUOXjaiZOu3W1Z7wqb9cXH35M8nbuBxHDug1LfJ3rTsYqbq0oig2k99HGmSBNs5V34lPBgS3Y0fqOxo3iNwkgiODyXvP_DcxCVvurFt91utHXFa1e0WKWfSBdBbqWOLRiGp0YdzBoLx33tz8wn8P4-t06TdVbABiAYYmoMgitQ5ao9wLlL_5tgOxQUQFM3s81uRjAVZO0RNL1I5_5i37GdSRn9zgVhyqpfxTsJ-LdGoReTI9v28EXyzX-NXgqoc0nFE-j5zmW6DAzNlzzypmpV9ZuNc5q5GMt3IbDHBPvjWj8wuaK2Lr9ltcidCcQVU7O3juW22Q0FCSX5hCG4SIKxO_TLuzI-ezrHnDXExrDRSPKc_qZCeXzfsMZvC5jSOKgaxD9dDG6mONRKEub1HFtt-2jriumopkqi8R005O1dbX5TN-PzOY=w1072-h804-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on February 25, 2017, 03:24:10 PM
First 3 and last 1 photo not showing! :) Hey, at least I'm following the thread! Would love to get my hands on a hitch!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 25, 2017, 03:44:47 PM
First 3 and last 1 photo not showing! :) Hey, at least I'm following the thread! Would love to get my hands on a hitch!

What the heck?  I even checked them from another computer, they looked good to me.  I edited, let me know if they still aren't showing for you.  Really don't know what else to try.

They are hosted at Google photos, and I've made sure they are in a shared album so there shouldn't be any permission issues.  I have checked on another computer which is not signed into my Google account and they show up.

Only thing I can think of now is my habit of hitting "preview".  I notice that the image code gets modified slightly when I post, but not sure why.  Maybe the forum software is doing some filtering or "simplifying" the HTML of the link?

Anyway, thanks for letting me know, Prafeston.  :occasion14:
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 25, 2017, 03:48:32 PM
It's weird for me. Sometimes certain ones show up and others don't or they all show. I use different devices and it happens on all of them.

I'm re-reading this with a different angle today.  I had thought you were saying that you have also had trouble with your posts, but maybe you are talking specifically about problems with my images?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on February 25, 2017, 03:50:49 PM
Images are showing now. Bummer you had to trim that square section out to make room. Glad you found a solution though!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on February 25, 2017, 04:50:44 PM
Yes, some of your images sometimes don't show. But, it's random.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 25, 2017, 06:16:57 PM
Bummer you had to trim that square section out to make room. Glad you found a solution though!

Another solution popped into my head:  Since the hangers need to be re-drilled anyway to match the Eagle bolt pattern, I could have drilled the new holes off center and "cheated" the bracket outboard a bit.  It would only have taken 1/8" or 3/16" max to get enough clearance.  I had already drilled the holes before I found the interference, so I didn't get to do it that way.

I was also nervous about messing with the alignment of the hanger bracket, in case that little bit made the leaf crooked.  Also, the hanger bracket bolts would be slightly off to one side, and I don't know if the forces involved would be a problem.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on February 25, 2017, 07:44:26 PM
hi check out TEagles build here. he did the Jeep shackle and reinforcement route. btw, that rear shackle mounting  point is possibly THE weakest piece of engineering on our Eagles. It's essentially a piece of stamped steel welded to another piece of stamped steel (the trunk floor) This creates a perfect little steel "bowl", which is ok as long as NO water ever gets there, but, eventually, water gets everywhere, and once it does, it's game over. Since it will rust from the inside out, you will not know it until you hit a nice bump/pothole, and the rear shackle/spring rip up through your trunk floor. Yes, been there, seen that, fixed that. Not fun. this is one area to really pay attention to, and reinforce if possible. good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 25, 2017, 11:09:57 PM
Thanks, I went looking for TEagle's version when you suggested it earlier.  It looks very solid, and I can see that it would be much stronger.  I just don't have the skils yet to do that kind of fabrication.  My wagon seems very solid in the rear, but I will keep an eye on the mounts to watch for signs of decay.

At some point I just try to remind myself that this Eagle isn't supposed to compete in the Baja 1000.  It just needs to cruise easily on forest service roads and the occasional easy trail.  Of course, it's a slippery slope and it's good to know you guys are out there, and many have done this stuff before.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on February 26, 2017, 01:33:38 PM
hi, on my 82 sedan, years ago, I saw some rust bubbling on the trunk floor in that area. had a roughly 1' square piece of 1/8" steel welded in. not the best, but kept car alive for about another 10 years. My 84 has stock set up, still good. btw, if you get those extra heavy duty Stengel springs, and have them arched another 1/2" or so, they will give you about 1-1 1/2" lift over stock, or seem to me anyway. I put in new FRONT coils from Espo, and they lifted up the front over 1", (this was unintentional), so car was nose high with old, tired leafs. did not look good!  The new leafs really picked up the rear, car looks good, folks always asking me if it's "lifted", it's not, just new front coils, and EHD rear leafs.  In AWD, thing will climb a tree! :)
You are correct, Eagles are not designed to be rock crawlers. They are ROAD cars!, that can on occasion handle some really rough  roads, but still ROADS! I understand that a man's car is his to do with as he likes, all good, but that is a personal peeve of mine,( please,I don't mean any disrespect here!)  If one wants a Jeep, get a !@#$%! Jeep! Eagles are ROAD cars! This eternal quest to turn Eagles into Jeeps has me a bit baffled, really, Jeep offroad parts are so easily available, and Jeeps are so easily available, why try to mess up a great road car to go offroad! Eagles and Eagle parts are NOT so easily available!
Anyway, good luck, I think you will really like those new leafs! gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 15, 2017, 11:47:11 AM
Had some delay due to travel, but I was back in the shop last night and got the rear springs in.  I was nervous about all the pieces coming together, but in the end I got a solid 2" lift in the rear from where it originally sat.

Here is my recipe, for anybody else out there that wants it:
1. Jeep CJ rear shackles and hangers.  3" shackles are shorter than stock Eagle, so this drops the rear about 1/4".
2. New rear leafs from StengelBros, bone stock option.  They were a little flatter than the springs in my wagon, by maybe 1".
3.  A full length add-a-leaf from Iron Rock Offroad, advertised as a 2" Jeep Cherokee kit.  Also got new u-bolts from them.

StengelBros offers different spring options (heavy duty, more arch, etc) but I had already bought the add-a-leaf kit.  I was hoping to use it with my original springs but found that one eye was snapped when I took them out.  Return shipping on the add-a-leaf was too high to bother, so I used the kit with stock springs.

I bought some "stock" rear shocks, the KYB 343149 Excel-G.  They are about 1-1/2" too short after the lift, and I intend to use some shock extensions to stretch them.  I just didn't feel like making a wild search for a different shock option.

The 2" lift is really about the max possible in the rear without changing to a longer brake line or e-brake cable.  At full axle drop, the brake line is almost too short.

Finally, at full drop in the rear the driveshaft is hitting my exhaust.  I think the car would have to be flying for this to really matter, but come on AMC!  Why did they run the exhaust under the driveshaft in the first place? Looks like there is plenty of space to run the exhaust on the passenger side alongside the driveshaft.

Here are a bunch of random pics from the latest project.  Fingers crossed that you guys can see them this time.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wfoWGMoNzTZi9Rj_X7FT-EsTtEvTnyTNw_2jMKBSqjnOITv5I9LxkwOcIMuctNFTWOXbK42KyTo1wX3RH0WskHDNLLaoQ82oaCcFxXYTtvLldAzYKJ7J79Ln-zFkkDCd8YujtuNhOo2e_sovyvxI_6JYi1k2ClUJnuFK6X4Y6xJzphlXFmZma7Jissn679XC9Dk52NjetVhmG4kx1EEb-sLTBu9Z0tqVLlfZLQVW8RmXG4VccWAuYRzYvsbkS4Ju5Ix6YhuhlrIOr8SK4zAMQ_ufYr8mvLiLVeQ5TYYvc3YY5MvPfKiC16QaXdfGX6mgvIOLfSLfMcYch8dWseZWy6Vj-FHjRSqBLJup9umWgfhp9PT1uodEuHdJtUSWdokuvSnrLmBI-PhhnZVqjFTojYcqPO_zTpaddG6qk47Tv8xKaDF1wiD9hx3BlJoku7b3AtOdfpTC0nfRdA6FHvLepdHZVHnfMm7ZpPtm2hcLXA2fstkKhqGtWqJni38m1jGXno0UI_0IM4fJPquObmB31SzAi7O8vmgby2G69Ft7v4cf2opfd50_s751Rx6bD2r_-UlYxS4j_pVqftSe_o0eVp2IwhvwolkyeCc4kcLA9h_QQKAz1RKf07uyciWKSaU6CVZIcOUzO1NJtZwtULC4R1S9C4TGl53XtIBa=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/GFaVcmdYvOjZomfXZhuatBxy25qyPFC7iKNchZUGtepUTI5KKIan4Uhg3cQgp4vwLsfdTBTr9WQRnG_UhM3xxggSN0O-nA2emQD7HiFhE7a8Rz1j6Utjbiy_bJazIeFXOfPjRmlkxjW-bH82b9hfh1DWIox3bs0RZdEqU1GGVEOjOXhhDjQRjklZGhVr_Xg4CYhcU5bSCygwu2qTlVutWCvWHGAka7ZakFCE1gmUJvSxNpnJqu3XwmlDQExHMX8GoOxP2jK3mvb4DMdTwJZupITijG5XmKB1ZjvnVvfwLD6Q4HvkGEccyB9iH2x_uFx4Ul2aGGuXeuXotsjsaTZBE1aSfOYv7JaoPN87z3286NsD82EqJgTbzaq7FL2BGuKLZRhxF4VpXKMZnw4o5SkztuGojOLCQuEIYyS8kvLM8uTK0aIP7nHftJMRmR9CHJlvgoYv89HEMRuzIrGtpMLFXs3gBDxEK_CDB9WZEyCvugj8l21zIce6yQnUSJ3hTBSPnYKvFzClkbqLv4QvBLwEoTVGShOuNbpEsZ-yexJVzyGLWiJkPFFvFuYnJeCljYKIbhfYkuEvhrrEkw5nM9gzWOkO6Qb9ggjrgIORHNe-N_XhazymBcVmElyOLIzSr9E5gzFlcAMJrDtAvhE4PQq9o0X61gQq1UclyG35=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Jc686TYMUuGbE7O9_PzAWNgkaD2W0ab41Keil6WuK8HR1_-E71GlDCesSGP-ApC-lcBUqy6I-IciOHayaRvtPwxQc3fgXr_ZomYl-E8Q7dlJiiOSS0ibYGw9XJbMInwLHa0R7f6JGQOelAzckjDId0Yge6ut5HCuOQusndcGRV2imyzhg4pdN5w372Q3dSzy3DmsFupZ6Gh0u2bK_d8g2n8mzqPbK18dsekMyEfxz0tteQeDlv5x-YzX42jGuEaaFiWDr958x0ojgG0W86MyxuYYJBKBhWIcC6zj2TQC51_ruU-kOr2Ob6sflC27xCmegGD4PGVltdbf6li8fBV1oXLkuIgIgeAc5Dm0Xuw8X9w-zibFeGkXLuwWa6GhiSD-tmXIihRyLe0poBlefZDORzNUgBd-5kTHsc2J0fVAc0YG6GJA9dt0kRhfKmYfJecRjrKqc1HWGYmRBq4nS5kk9_wa2-N30zterR6lP8U7tuCFbAjyy4S5aTd8mGYrpOBzro0vmXmRHnaDgI9ULI_ETWKsl-9p1253BbWjzZOVaAo71akGrCD0H1JSGB09ujj0MLRjN1VFm2a1eWzKsE59okJQxFjJFiXK_SEnlkVN25oPuLLYzifnBzNv9DGunBx4ixJtto8U7rWDfgAs6eFRqkmRULtBF1KSSlpH=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VkztQ7csG2VIbMyWDQhXeB476d2rWNdZN_0muHdClihzQxiwKAmiGpKdWganQ5mmjZszJvXoq5O0d7hxdbPUMNwBZCzJR0eY1Dzhr2kvm1_QvJNU0jJGZuIOzfVJjUcUv4emdiwoPzm3JlyzZiIdslk2UdTIp3-kiKYwwdTcylAEwgS3wNUQgxilB1cXwMfYmXRGq8gg2YFuk6g5Z_GcktuBoTS0uJJ1RUr_fpSlKJKYV7FTXLPsIPrTJO6R83IRA9KFCBWxSnb5v70vFFglPTxgU2HETMQ7OfGEHFjUvIMW5oFP8vlP0VDR6u8_CK_9MshAviDl1naf-4JsLu3ycq0LZnfED1Sm1J-hismB7QaaRE34vb67AaIL9movJ20a92OinioPFk1Looy3w0t3lNa-Vj4A6w1SjRNBnZA4ywZyNsEAVrHY9-zRUN6ZMyxdpJacgzO8d-lQdki3h0PBTj-3ymTAeue8yRE2bDLZjnM-49ULhp1XI1BGAQoCQ2IQ1OQMN3UcO6SKe9T4kN0MVdpyTGP7VnED_ix6i-rTclcP8RNzQRBe-al6iUukhM370_VOCZTzbDJEPXzq45YFJAwP6qdt3-5phNnXNRBqnjKY3YC2ELaubTL-t6iXzhhrHF0x18UVVKuYY4vCAk9JG_5lC7wOpYaRIj2F=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vOPScnfO_tPInqyhDyu84StcJOYXfpX_5BFSoQ7u8fgLB2AXIuJGJPUEE0zBIeIARQpGxtzcUZzBO1Ig1HqQOZzHzYF9-YisGhKnJqRJi0l5sTN0DsujZLhIBp8RexEG4W2zJoDZYGzIf74EXKmMHTaWrTTJe-nXVMVrrsKukIsgKQ8UZyEqf8zPGZF4ILV3Iy23ZBMHTOCW9iEJhjoGU8E4N2y9f5P3dVzFqqaxPDgK1kUQpuopviCoa4kuyjUC3ckTYg6x3WhrZ2jvfrIiYCBonC8LkHCHFBFTmC7xqzYQpLi7mKbO6C0StNHxrc2SGWCmy0XIbb0UurSy-eZ4o4V2vbJ53YSX7fHotD-YYndo7LXW9q4WOshZAt1JVunl_UDvhBMH8vIide-Keg9-Tn2jXPIDYrCSfsjWhAUm0FsAr_EFtTeiSWB7zZX0WylQLYuop9XzbJc_OD4lPUSWF_uT886uZHiEeuSNzajlr2TsBziU5jxu14qA9Efgtx-S41zhZsrHj8NxTjF9iHIASIwx8Kqy3gVvXpyGlPv2j98xS-EI8gPOLERX02NzZXvEd4623iq57SgRqu7crujKGt8T34BPyOaj-xMv-Lrgiu2MRG-dgf4fc_kRGZr2CcPE5mW1rzrJCaMuYATK34gw8JYgcKuH6KAkpij9=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vXKQji1b1Yhix0QMCpoG-xNz14OoUdMXnrCVjoiC9UG_6Xwj2V1Qf4U3yXijc6kM5l_5OYEi51KJDqPFJpheUaIRH7tOXG-lyEgSOuU2vEFhT-62zaxeifE7Mda44Yj40-0W12nUqKxd0EAGGMiXJE4cIgqKgNss9_vH9yutAgbvqBDr6yOD3bQOiqv1dlJ1TL_FYjCc_8L-AMDHE5OaAi-bCmNxp2Cb8mAtcIlwaIp84LGpFCXEFdwc7HyEs4IjUBH9ayxE5Yosr3fucGOcuPLIj29XCxUJ0XYtOjEIEfyO5kX5rwfCKVp5wdpHab81AtA5opM24Dnno9zHZ17JUfBpWIVhvt1_8U1GQUghMhL6TkP3j1SakybZgaWTH4Kb-G1spyr6HSukWiiJzHbUg9y_5JqnVWMVwyeqLcYmEnna7ERq42ADX6W8hfppqbM_8X-I6USg2mJ8ubM_pdHMP9opKuzOyBB4UvKkmOMkMqB7mDraWxyHhDvWabwTRKpS63w-2KOYPApddvRs18m4RIxIWHpu897ShI55x5dbA8uyPD72B5lPAIRPbxJ102g9bVlcFCr1CGQ4X7v41Qq6KPge_NykZKeUWGal2qbs4Be9FRGcJZDCJkU65f45L5ZcSdR05TV-Xk8K18GVQ6v7rEif2TlPv9Wq_XUS=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Zuhw4Rtmbztnl5HdvSznz_rwirC8RYjF8OgsKqycaRaJaSdFAR6o2mEl3OBsF3cin5DUCNschnsYyQXThO97qfTor8DxmdEwuel_P1C4OKEKNwCoqCSCiiUsp2cVhlPYXQ6X9xUhrzyXQNTyHdZG1XJdXGhiMS_SygWfmCFXi6rFj43_pgkgwtlDry1gC3qUGO7PVbfF4-OfoIrVFJS4nxKbLz-KgmpRuRM990agX6ZTnbN-I2Wq56G6okwdbuywfhPmiIWAmGeuTcdEGDLhc2mMnB90mInaNWOhjoQ74yoPOWerZsVoYkw14qvmlb75ssUikEMJ0SNPqAAen4ZQD5iRkaCYwfIT_A1hdyXGn4seilAYtAJOPUpZjGAykpshguE9m8K7JHba23veAqXKqq6pvmoFdNi-pZOrZwVryr-RaspbKTZMpCYbmKGGU9kHvVxGqTJEltxmc8juv8DbqTVQtYsRnygMuMiqVwErn5qJqllz_zXIQLIUZQoDHr_QIkBrIImHO1_KLLssQS_vndsyLI8--TBv2J-GHsn59MgwgSNCiYcJ1Dt2GXyNzCnSc2IZxAVPguLXQMStJbIuK0sVbXW9qBwkNzYkZGnhNZLKnK6d0LZSlqc_63O3tw7T0H1sDQIxS-hhEIIs_u5rVfpLprZkQQ6hSsEA=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TTHFwuZEP3InWO3BplvD9m4o7zp1R9_0_xTKdYk6e2PWU_Nvr8bIY87Suxi8HRXiumvJz2L-6wdtbwbbEj6LoO0uEJJ0Jw0YOSrB7W8kb5abT4Is6cEedME6gaOBbd-VsehwoYWMgXIUpJLBmzRd0adQ1bxUyu0G5JoYpm5rOfllTjtzGfOd3wnMRlTZOmlErsWEa01DaMxP-wR1tv6NhDTZseIKbUxY8pzu6jGD7Kah3T-rDLjpkgIaqPTI6LTNHniaPisiAH9NPUi3IgHLxsz3PgoifBe5UmBaGpi4RDqKMckfYRek0omcA81p00v6wE1iLu_nDqxZ_PnOIODihfwmPVAH_-fKygLfKXfYPzFzkksxuKc98txK2z5rGhzSNR7ZnEXKy62iVv_IxvTBCuraj8Yft4UaAn-R5dCtWOXQLpzr8pb6I1nxjgz3SSafOhNJb-lhQ2PFDH4kLiMeSpIWAiOHTo6QKLvoWC1oVPHqXweCR221BPuifi2bQbUVJZ17NLqkNw4wnvXk0d4cQqDmlLnaYIxLIZnfPEMu4R2396v94WQoGZ5O_tLH8_doLh5VJUvxAoy1a08w1uobq1q-2UGLgDSRFVacbcYqlubbPbkdLPTwhm7Zo5K3mPhMkjQ7eksKY3JVRWROSadCx71lMZjZUBKTJ9Sa=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MPwX6ku5bBeUM-jIjUipxC2GNnnTGqthOApBlxIpYmRuc_k_Uhd0s036yAbo12HVC9z8VwfpYIwiAc6J0Y4IN7ecG95G8U5pYwYtED63AiICrJ4yn5mPgTHTbMfJdbp5AyJ09FWIP8UNdPOkm7Rm-4HxcMZg0_VcieRArkCQzHDb1Mt4aNCkNAN13WMXCuSWxks7LA-rBm2BIJMCDuUtaquwSDX5NGyzP2AhwqlU4c1MeN6fVC6h4KX0_EVAdo0Cj9iM41_8iXmePSAv4wnuL_lVZHhiJ-rm2YOKCtfgnFnVFNVzWcrQY7OyhCuqjg7qkqHYC8Tb1bArGqmjZkcVSnVlx5OCYTsBm-Gqpq4L_hHLCvi84XBEkxPaH86cRk6nKnVkmQx3-khiBfHphuRqWu57kqVS4duoENEh58tMJRO9qouiylWxpp-l6U0Jk7L10Q_1_bBXAYOjNcYSUGt1itgkVAVxcr6pOoXi8j4g1UM0tA_HUsq6zV1n5PDDS7I39aHCzvdZyg3ZGpDJ2PChqYjdEgT2rjAiF0e9lYiClWb5zjNGBwZk1ElCAi3v7qVn9ptpyuVHuniOr6GYlajL8YqrgYgvASjpRmGp6UtoOKd_lnct-642brG_2xAV4l8XodwhhtZsX1k2pnsw8SPOhehQ5yefOOhszCzW=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TqmYHd60nxF_Okj8tdvTwW63s9zn0gzKN_3K-QrfPRgg8iJdeaSw-7oe4Fkn9hxOSQcJH3FdKReFifYr73vckmblcj31IeVLsBOaR5-lOhYZknnoyeIKpeRjqvjzcZyYCsn2g_ZG7huansWPrxZqC_H19wNy59SlVBrtLC4Q7Q55qO6pTHw44y9fLn6zSbBuhyc_f8FBc774kv3-DSZ4rwChlmJUxSb87URXGSCotyMXn3QV-M9TuhpdBQ-jp4Ghkoy-pSmh1hAWUjFhFeGBN90nENGf_067z6DdORZoF-MxeQ9ph3hrWHER4ID9dtgU221CeCem2tleG9rHuTlx9t2hGzBrqJxnUkgmRGiB9QUpPpkalzCK1Us16W-WZzHeP59ubOMy0y7yM_-dlQMyF1DwUsUmbYHRdpDgh4xmQABXV6HiCitxjqKNpkxu6kx7Drvx0hzrm2S8Kow9_QUuCZV4RdTcSnZa5OmR9tCX4pZCd17XE9aermTee7ETsZdBH85br-6gbVmnsDvrgb8NPP-HmYuSBhaQMdLENtgtTk0ywjAhyiMEoV605yILwUOnc_PS3NURl8h0J7_J0XcaFc9KoJdWaChcbXMXCBxdve8R8VdkUol_9YZwG9q1F3WzCsF68XY1vpQTBShfAM76e83e3399pS7Qw3ep=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/595RNdwlLCYgtSCGzW3vBHLoMjQEOcwHwoYguEsZ_dRM68uhke-Cqz7PjVOzCX7bT4_D99LSGJFS1lqTXPCi5LBf3vdnjHpbJNqhm0DatNJfDuz2nd8KbSWFWfBC1_FemUKkRga-5bF2VXaRGjf92T1xTzeIqdXUR9G5UWTmsiY-Z4AsHcpWc-Eni8EDMJpyXN6-9BklFpNAZLbMGnWvvRAVkRDNtlA69wVw_pgHlUWlZt8tHd6x9L9MRiYGol6W9Th2_2fga5UQfy2gv-5dFWlXZS0AkeX9hnNaCKXOMjnOOCDmSxqTHYWlTW1DwTVSdSnPk_iGTVFG3pQ680EgXjkotyev3xNZMfYjVFiK768tn0u5hueBgZmtwDM83qdGbdgnTPoEPOVdFszteMZWuZxWuCJRw2oKoywwb6QG_dUP3zD9Yei93Er2FkON-QksVsQwK6P9GyIk2jJqngFat0yrOYlgyU8Y8p4svY53vsrpisE6ry_TnhnehQ2DbKNIU477szp6FCd73tqUrjgZj4eISL4xWy0MPIKqJzua41z2QLlz2kxg5Nr7yszp64XjcAcaQHgnLXGgsSh9u2d-wTUOHxTrsoOcvEqNY-3DGmP_1-liV6xZjgtHqm0jKziNBxRLEpWx3DwwpVTgVYhjn106orb5_5_uS9UB=w1072-h804-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on March 15, 2017, 02:30:45 PM
All pics are viewable! Springs look good man! Well done!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 20, 2017, 10:13:04 AM
Spent lots of time in the shop over the weekend, but it was one of those times where you don't have a lot to show for it.  I was finishing up little bits of the rear spring installation, torquing bolts, reconnecting the park brake, etc.

I put in the new rear shocks with an extension to handle the 2" rear lift.  I made sure to check them at ride height, they have about 5" of compression available.  Old ones were pretty crusty.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8CtKAQkWl6BuxKHHQe9lYtwrxtwz1FQXRHszceFCB9Iar9jzKr2GO3bAsur5vXVfLyL7zro3S7Z37XmNNJGc90fq0xOZ9KmpRJflzaZWZucsY7Zcq13I5k6NGie3zBazQ83lammzywClBdc4inEFJDAko4j5lsuNHjYxOi72q4g5-p9i-L3xP6_nV3O4kmwdtF8R6KpNxB4QLIYF7IFwhS4YUP5LK_o3J--708qd4SzFjIjbk2FCZlL23E1QApiohzvCwmjxZXRhEWJLxBJb2B8kOY9H7xWcTuZwrzb8WEzJtumNPHzm7xzytCKesRkCLOJUX-ZJX3fApiHxsz6sfbv2z0vn5mTEIzj5ZjEVmrQrdIxXdIRgP1RZLNwVDur9RRPSxDefCAdlL8s0Q03-InN79tbNMW_-I9x1gMWX301QdRdhlxsy-bPr4ezmjM6J23jikEu3r3WnZyJxC7HCIvNcJwv4rzPi2PpIiqae2hwx1pOohCtpJr2Gj3mXuL3Rb6iyfsycBwKDq-AJjIV4GaghJQCz1cTiWvVE9HExbHy5j9HAt9_CtJhficCGSDhHhqd7nUdXQda0K_frqdN4pkEmAxMknqNzFkFjThwrCJMkpWF83vtf27Xig1GaUpRXohQJvuLu8J0XepEoWV2xw8pzR6Lc2ewQgclP=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/m9vQ7_KnBCQZkpkSsdfPBVmiyg-e6ODml-UGJBoHO7qRDlXz6NSdJOQ6SUeXMJ2BnA-X9tCrq6bjVkGCC9hr9yJnZlL_XymFD8KZ4ZLyfMxVsmzcOPvjcp7RjihjzBT2m2BRank9TH8trh389BWDE7liMjG4opveHc4x4u3_hG9g-QDYX3NDMVoqbXS4qEgXl6b8_jcECsWxmu81Vg-YRTajx6cXO_YOT5hnObWWSATCI4cBpBUU83Kb_zQdKyR_HT26zMe6YfLKGwaB5FUdZcSfN4nciMt8FKPX8NRPSgZWl5Ls39pJqOtfZZCeYv3hN2A4ZO1VT3RbjaT1uBqt2bSRt8lQ2iXQHhT855ahHQKORkT0CqamoLo1491ghlC1blEpirmhr-LBRpDIz3aQ-N54-olxynR-PRwBsCrgfllSi0DJfLXh6jJh_BFDNo8VEfB7g7z_8KWdoLzlsH3dO4VuOcQiVyqF5igk8ENrE-OJCTcmc28L4JNBWQU5CoTzv5lTrqp_tU6mxUPFfsRPAkcnONeP7uy7vKSiXoXtLuWGkB7LFXKNx-yUT_CUNzWd2vlOdVmEJ-svljy-HiQ8DzaRZ7JCwJ3LsKgq0RUNRRrjaB8PA-iqoQYu3InqHuPX7yvRgpwsr9XsR52Ha0vAohxEmCtgpzFz9CLf=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iYo4e4n30yFGvGFoL4H0jdTuiW1B6GTScpyhTo9Caet9zYxGpGPilSxfc6KdAnKz3o2vAnDtT5olKIroWw1QcOp9vRmHTZrM--k1QyB3EX5BInhrx94h3F5rnRpQouZeHpufzQhih58eLRdi4jYwAO4-hcAZR8B9IGybM7t6Qwm22tdDdTiMpnyZJ51cA1fYxhkukeueWtU_bfPSoBZkjc-FOU2eTRxkaKNpQmPmFRbQHv3huZET6KWAby5qrsfYgUJvkAmIUYnOMEoBUBKEx2fzDwJ3qoVnsBkzilKTyYysvXJ7bgpoA8q_xPFjQeqSVcS0QewfqW2g9WyxKugNF6ocvoX7zS3GvVeo0m4-5UPHlyTAtxnJEWN6CrK6C3qzjSya4MM0ScKx5i305YcZyA92cT_iYKkZZVSUpK8sZ2TFa4o7lJK5J_SAnhm7LQBI8DKAQgJV7P8EiDMN7k5gGvCTnkQzuXNEBXji48Iq86-6ZA7lelXKa1zO-EH5YLvtULsQiQUiGV5gO6kFba-3rILViQ_Z-49QUvRUy-V7NT4STTbeupE6GVFyCmi8mZzSNxNEhZitEokMDSwgYwgZYr8dfOiPJ2DeuDCdpq0l2ESKIgL_JaY7cWfus6hwDg0iuXDmcrkwGzrRYFZNg61t3Tzboyf7Gv-zUPJN=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1NahI32rzMtPGuWrA2Mmah_RyhP6tVIl1JTMGLL-0_v8S4WcuOG6nNvttiEYkXdpRNc8c1KV8ITNE_-C1WsIN-hPAc28nFFe-jwKwfIq-oOP8QrnwuLIAiQdq0jeWVE_AJbc2_4omFZsPtlFOUHmxxP_mEzQbo0jTi6yKLyt0mj4RkmJhYXDNhUMiWM6lyrN77UcYsCdygJLyMVOfwKHY2QifQjXTXD-my0f7RiA5BOg9DWomgSxTPADi2ATQf-HELanQpPKH0YZbVw9rbeN6GxzXwYLdlKAcOUmQIKPq0Be0I0cGL7mzdOKF1iagMp-LURdx1vYk3qQ-00XEDd7ePO3corVKpcmsS1B3jc0Of6PsjBOM5rtcftjkdsMzx9PI0UsgjfLaEYWfw_cAeDuwTUCZyvtQQZLyEHc-dTotR-nZsYZzDFVzWMMxVIodgMuY2VC6ENWl7qGcoH03AHqgGnjykp13cY5owC1_qiruZP7s57MdODedeJJKhz55Rblz9ZpEb4mXDAI0uMVRHxMkN5nBwh76DTCcjV-kgAxqMGDCshQjzHxBa1-6cWAy_yZ4EE_TuPBJnsfEl_S4AHoDAJgEWElXiSJZyaUiUrTAFxfA4a6H0E0SI3DUIizV7C5qG8Op7NxOW1LXeqeTbT_0MT2MQoOrUm2JSxw=w603-h804-no)

I almost got the front shocks installed, but one of the lower studs snapped off.  Not sure why, since the torque spec is only 20 Ft-lbs and I wasn't even close.  I'll have to get another shock.  Length on these replacements is about 1-1/4" longer than my old ones, so I did not put extensions onto the front shock.  This way the shock is still the limiting factor and acts as a stop before the upper A-Arm pinches on the subframe, when the tire is at full droop.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_0SId5o9yNo276RdJx-hIxHZypytXDaGAmGH6VxgPgB43L627dVa5SfhoNhExiHBr20G9jDTLgJExmhNR9zjmhZbQ9McwUvi5PVdM-ROspS02Ws_96e1CBO-agwDwqgMIhqUlNq_DYZy0OzxXmm7z8LayMveTdljGwNxEv8Ak7lN5pt1tWOCOGIuViAzPjs9pXgNHru0VeTL7c1xWuEVcux_Oa8bO8XSDQDA1xYDNcUIU2Oqq-fAHos68S7B-34LACILmVVfBMKFxr11Wu4cX1Ysyw7OaHp8_BB73VgCtobSgsBYHjTeQi4hNwDcOy8pAHHb7i3LYDEB47JTeWnGf4l3krKkWjujOxGA63um1-L5Sj2jBXa5FZgWBdsSIyyfttE4HTGieJuwS-MaJypXmMfnuGLNmZP3-p3iK2GKWUXCz1kLiS965E16wfXtCaxGjTYSfj16DqHUdw1XPLLLRMQgPY8jIZVnB_puNr1mjMJmuNJXAu8j68yr3AEL_VE2x56zOWNpJxAhyIGKq0UciuZ2wnx90aodZpQZf2pHWZRkTICeAztmdIMhXPJFgzXvs4oX3RchkHlXKRmvOO1LvB7ITn8_vlLZtxCkSze1Q-OxafVhfdjHVfoye4gbW2ji7_jVzHCrVkJ9wDnYe8KFg9Y4ipN2g8T1BswF=w603-h804-no)

I also wrestled the hitch back into place and bolted it up with new Grade 8 hardware.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dGCY2WA0SFuGUWETb0FppgcgFgv0mdDhX433BYBrtvzLxklXa-2QJ19iJ_WXxnL4Xi31Kmcl4Ck9ZZhtpDfbGGgmb9uRqQ_xkXy1Opuf5pJh-iYl7kQ2c5wD4JN8_8uZQejOfVz3Y4riYJVhfnvy3WgxODNzqd6LtDpEL2QQYYa-bgLzKS7xqRFUmPO58paUSEu0bY7H6C_5chgz0WJQBZfDr98I3_MPBluwkcH9ouCzTrnXv-OVxeZIpQCvx0HP1sqTIsUuPhpkDOSkYbO8Shx-LQEwKLSF5fqlMwQo8STZf8GhhPOjLjV796Gj6QXrX5_8hhJeIFigfEd-VJQJtZ2uxiKfweyew4u4H5ti8pFZU6zR9Zz6A0yJtbKqcNC-Epl2X-SaEsbr4B1DnuBfvIHrea9nd90DC4tUyAksgFGCrF5x75nyI41IuswC4OjiZyy4ZX6ZpdXaQVKhX0g80UAgimR4kepkmJhy0USyhVpIzbsnb5IiIBVQ6-HCzHTWgDwivsyoTLW_B12Xs0sduw5lXXGUQJ_xdmQ3fnKa-Xz0gZGcp_Bv750eme7w5HWXfk2vv_7Z_NHkHcxWk732ZnsJLa4VKFlfsObBgnT28tiD5c7nWTCoSvVaWbrbI-i5k3400C-0DYVcsmS0vfDpt4Ft-80ZoU3l1gxK=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oqIRlWRDz37q86CpFwBxje6Yb1ebY_lo8MeWoEOHeP8AXvAEsWmEo97GjzFEu7Yf1hyRjWZmydT32A4gp-_GnyMrdaqvVVL-U1EM9PUrCihECS0OiTtpm3cVg7ryAOdtNpc7vBudQc6iFqkgsQCX7PM94CDHWgCbOiakB3VvigNoPRMSFd8oDMll_9gsRjl4PBhHKH1s6aoRQ0kKLiZji-PQamVGwkwCltV2FYQ8HTAE4VT4hhE6zb8FEg6aE5aHoAY45l8MONJaY4RGurN4eNCDhYhX_UqOebxnFVNLTa-xsmd0eB4V_OIMYajms4J4Hoa6daLrCNOF67NcHukKSqjK5C31xv2NgxPLQTQGulV0AJTtW7xz5glG24pH6XPjChSkEh-m61B9FzMXHg5Jn5pjprEHUkC4TwAUFZTb0sNunKOqVFvoFZniFHQ1upt9xOpYIxA4V256zOfHFJkQQCOEwSgj2WyksE4UwB1m60V88E17O0TRbEqHyR25CnSo91PkCuduyPiBku_BJfCMMSfbJS7ts2I5WXxR9qkx_Y2NCjJUML1xXKNt7ehA0W2GUws1CHwEaEbOPHbhanESyqAGGpvwZXwP_AgsToyEv9bag4hZNOSrbZ4uGj2n-9Yr4ixh5Ptg3oFwhcAQCPlZP6ONEG8jy6UDs9Zb=w1072-h804-no)

I'm almost done with the lift, so close I can taste it!  Or maybe that's just all the dirt and grime that's fallen into my mouth working under the Eagle, hah!  I'm a little nervous that the front is maybe 1/2" higher, but I need to take it out of the packed garage and step back a few feet to tell for sure.  I also need to load it up with some weight and see which end sags more.  If the rear needs to come up a little more, I will have to find longer shackles or maybe modify the Jeep CJ versions I used.

Not sure what's next but wheels and tires are getting closer!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 20, 2017, 03:34:25 PM
The front will probably settle a little once you get a few miles on it.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on March 20, 2017, 05:06:59 PM
Second photo and last two not showing.

So you bought some different shocks to try to better match your 2" lift? I'll be following to see how well they work out.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 20, 2017, 05:56:24 PM
Second photo and last two not showing.

So you bought some different shocks to try to better match your 2" lift? I'll be following to see how well they work out.

Man, I really appreciate you checking my pics all the time.  Wish I could figure out why some don't show.

The shocks I bought are all listed as stock replacements on RockAuto.  They ended up being a little longer than the ones I took off, but who knows what those crusty things were.  The KYB's were long enough in front, but in the rear I added some extensions that made them about 2-1/2" longer at full extension.  Didn't need all that, but they were the cheapest extensions I could find.

The front will probably settle a little once you get a few miles on it.

That would be good, I'll see how it goes.  I'm also hoping to sneak a winch onto the front somehow so maybe that will help balance things.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on March 20, 2017, 11:18:49 PM
Weird now none of them are showing
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 21, 2017, 09:51:19 AM
Weird now none of them are showing
For me, none were and still aren't showing since the last post with pics was posted.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 21, 2017, 11:54:29 AM
Weird now none of them are showing

For me, none were and still aren't showing since the last post with pics was posted.

Arrrgh!  Just edited, hopefully that fixes it.  Really getting fed up with Google, I swear the "edit" process is just delete the old link, copy and paste the exact same thing again.  Not like I'm really changing anything.  Thanks guys.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 21, 2017, 01:51:42 PM
I can see them now. That's weird you needed shock extenders for the rear. I added 3 leaves on each side to my rear springs which lifted it a bit and didn't have any issues with stock replacement Monroes fitting.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 21, 2017, 01:57:59 PM
The rear shocks probably would have been OK at ride height, or even within normal driving ranges.  They were only too short when I let the rear axle hang at maximum drop, and then only by 1-1/2" or so. The extensions were longer than that but they were the shortest I could find.

Thanks for feedback on the pics.  My theory is that there is a delay after the pics are uploaded to Google, when they "process" the image somehow.  I seem to have better luck if I wait a while before grabbing the link.  I'm using the same process to "fix" the posts, and by then all the images have been up there for at least a couple hours.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 24, 2017, 02:38:28 PM
I was able to patch my torn axle boot.  It was in good shape, but got pinched during the front suspension lift somehow.  Added grease, and wiped down with denatured alchohol.  Shoe goo is a very strong contact cement, a couple layers sealed it up.  Added a small patch from a used bike tire, should be fine.  I have a spare axle assembly on hand, just in case.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/A52C8D8D-BB6A-49A6-96A9-2D9BF3BB110A_zpsnufczcis.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/A52C8D8D-BB6A-49A6-96A9-2D9BF3BB110A_zpsnufczcis.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/C0E3B23F-9EC2-49EA-9671-98D89173BE94_zpsvnfliasa.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/C0E3B23F-9EC2-49EA-9671-98D89173BE94_zpsvnfliasa.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/D7185FCA-1CE0-4A26-96AD-E593E8BFFA1F_zpsrnmfdx5h.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/D7185FCA-1CE0-4A26-96AD-E593E8BFFA1F_zpsrnmfdx5h.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/81F83E48-6025-4271-A632-231F02829DD3_zpslun7qusu.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/81F83E48-6025-4271-A632-231F02829DD3_zpslun7qusu.jpg.html)

I unbolted the half-shaft from the axle flange to get the boot into a better shape for the patch.  After that I kept going and took out the axle.  I've got a big leak near the rear main seal, maybe the oil pan or maybe the seal.  It drips right on the exhaust and send up clouds of smoke.  Time to fix that, I guess.

Getting the two top bolts on the axle was a puzzle.  I ended up with a bunch of extensions, sneaking down through the intake/exhaust manifolds for one of the bolts.  Crazy!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/EEEEB63C-2EE5-4150-A3AA-17F593755914_zpsrugxrs14.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/EEEEB63C-2EE5-4150-A3AA-17F593755914_zpsrugxrs14.jpg.html)

But in the end I got the axle out.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/267ABBAE-10B7-4D80-95B1-DB5E884D637B_zpsctbreyhf.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/267ABBAE-10B7-4D80-95B1-DB5E884D637B_zpsctbreyhf.jpg.html)

I'll drop the starter next, hopefully that will get enough clearance for the oil pan.  The manual sure makes this sound simple!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 24, 2017, 07:28:23 PM
If I were going to remove the oil pan, I would just pull the engine. It's not an easy job to remove the pan while in the car. And yes, those top two diff bolts are fun.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 24, 2017, 10:14:45 PM
If I were going to remove the oil pan, I would just pull the engine. It's not an easy job to remove the pan while in the car.

I don't have a hoist, or frankly the ambition to pull the engine.  :)  If it comes to that I'll just trail smoke all the way across country, or find a shop that will do it for me.

So, is it possible to remove the oil pan from below?  I've got the starter out and also removed the flywheel cover, but there sure doesn't look like a lot of room.  Before I unbolt the pan I'd like to know that it won't be hopelessly blocked in there.

Time for more research!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on March 25, 2017, 12:27:46 AM
None of the photos are showing
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 25, 2017, 09:59:28 AM
Typical on the pics. Screw it, I'm switching to photobucket.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on March 25, 2017, 12:39:53 PM
You can pull the oil pan without removing the engine.  However, you have to drop the front differential and steeringto make it happen.  I believe this method is described in the TSM, and I think they also suggest laying a piece of channel iron across the engine bay and strap the engine to it for additional support.   
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 25, 2017, 01:46:05 PM
Typical on the pics. Screw it, I'm switching to photobucket.
When Photobucket first came out it was much more user friendly and reliable. If it weren't for the fact that I have tons of pictures already hosted there, I would consider a different hosting option.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mo.eagles on March 25, 2017, 03:48:30 PM
Mine was leaking trans oil and dripping onto the exhaust pipe . I was the guy rolling smoke out the back!!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 25, 2017, 06:38:24 PM
I talked to Paul aka Strike Eagle today and he changed an oil pump years ago without pulling the engine, so I asked him how. He said he disconnected the front and rear driveshafts. Removed the transmission crossmember, dropped the front axle, disconnected engine mounts, lifted the engine a little and let the transmission droop down. He said you need to have it on that angle to remove the pan.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 26, 2017, 09:31:39 AM
Alrighty.  Pics fixed above for hopefully the last time.  From now on I'm using photobucket, though I agree that it's king of cumbersome.

Thanks for the advice, especially vangremlin and eaglefreek.  I have the front axle and starter out, and I've read the procedures from the TSM, Clymer, and Chilton.  I had a little time yesterday, and I must have laid under that thing for half an hour trying to make a plan.  Yesterday I was feeling pretty lousy about it, that I was in over my head.  I REALLY don't want to drop the frame crossmember, just looks like a big job.

Luckily I haven't touched the oil pan bolts yet, so I can still put it back together.  I'm pretty sure the leak is the rear main.  The valve cover was leaking but that has been fixed.  I took off the plate that covers the flywheel, and most of the oil crud was on the outside of the cover.  Seems like the rear main is the most likely source, but I also read something about the trans output shaft seal so now I'm worried about that too.

The procedure eaglefreek mentioned seems possible to me, I would feel OK about taking out the trans crossmember and letting the trans and engine sag a bit.  But I wonder about the transfer case - that would have to sag also, correct? Or maybe just take it out, hmmm.

I've done a lot on this car, but maybe I need to find a shop to bail me out on a couple big items.  I'll keep you guys posted.  Thanks again for the support!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on March 26, 2017, 12:54:22 PM
hi, while you have the front axle out, change the fluid in it! it is a real PITA doing this with axle on the car. good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 26, 2017, 01:13:55 PM
The transfer case would be still connected to the transmission. Just make sure you support it with a jack so you can adjust the angle. At that point, you're about 80%-90% of the way there to remove the engine. :)  If the transmission input seal was leaking, you would see  a lot of fluid inside the bell housing after you removed the torque converter inspection cover. Also, make sure you take a good look at your oil pressure sender and make sure it's not leaking.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 26, 2017, 03:16:13 PM
Darn it.  My oil pressure sender is dry.  You got me excited for second!

Yeah amcfool1, I'm with you on the fluid change.  That's part of the reason I went this far, along with the torn half-shaft boot.  All that stacked up to at least take out the front axle.  I opened up the axle and it looked good to me, no obvious problems. Fluid wasn't that bad, and no metal bits anywhere.  Whew.

Eaglefreek, is the "torque converter inspection cover" the same as the little flywheel cover panel?  Just to make sure I'm looking the right place.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on March 26, 2017, 03:51:57 PM
You are looking at the same thing.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on March 26, 2017, 03:55:56 PM
Another thought is the 4.0l oil pan gasket is a better gasket. Its a rubber 1 peice gasket from felpro.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on March 26, 2017, 05:27:25 PM
x2 on the one piece gasket, #fel-OS34308R, just put one on my last rebuild, good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 29, 2017, 03:26:51 PM
I unbolted the engine mounts and was able to jack the engine up a little bit.  I've got some wood blocks shoved into the gap in the motor mount, holding the engine up.  This gave me the confidence to finally unbolt the oil pan, but it's stuck on there pretty good.  I ran out of energy last night, but I'll attack again with a putty knife and hope to get it out.  Haven't touched the trans crossmember yet, but that will be my backup plan if the oil pan still won't come out.

Oh, and I managed to break the head off one of the oil pan bolts. Luckily I think it's one where the hole goes all the way through the block so I should be able to drill it and re-tap the threads.  Fun!

I also scored a cargo basket for the roof today on C-List.  It's an aluminum Surco Safari basket, which came with cross bars and gutter mounts.  Sweet!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 29, 2017, 11:20:28 PM
I finally got the oil pan pried loose, thanks to a very firm putty knife.  I can absolutely confirm that it will NOT come out, even after jacking the engine up about 1-1/4".  I will need to drop the trans cross member, just like Strike Eagle reported.

This is not enough.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4D620C09-F686-4A73-8D72-4691602D66A4_zpsigm3c6gf.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4D620C09-F686-4A73-8D72-4691602D66A4_zpsigm3c6gf.jpg.html)

Here's the roof basket I found used.  I may cut it down a little, it's actually pretty wide.  50" wide x 60" long.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/7B764AF5-C8EE-408C-9488-EF9BBB96C772_zpstfxwyaeo.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/7B764AF5-C8EE-408C-9488-EF9BBB96C772_zpstfxwyaeo.jpg.html)

I sat it in place to get it out of the way.  I will slide it back when doing the final installation.  I will try to use the two gutter mounts in the front, and then reinstall the stock roof rack and slide those crossbars to the rear.  This should give me 4 crossbars to spread the weight.  There will be a spare mounted up there.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/2B930A14-963F-494E-8382-5FDCCA9A538C_zpsvlgu9qin.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/2B930A14-963F-494E-8382-5FDCCA9A538C_zpsvlgu9qin.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 30, 2017, 08:06:58 AM
Nice. Good luck with the oil pan job. It's not going to be easy getting the new gasket in there. You might want to get some high tack gasket spray or something similar and attach the gasket to the oil pan before reinstalling.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 06, 2017, 10:47:51 AM
Success!  Geez, what a pain that was!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/5FD9E9D8-790B-4CF5-8321-A082A9BDFFE8_zpsykuhoxtk.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/5FD9E9D8-790B-4CF5-8321-A082A9BDFFE8_zpsykuhoxtk.jpg.html)

In the end, I had to lower the transmission and raise the front of the engine quite a bit.  If I had a hoist, I would have used it.  The engine mounts have 2-1/2" thick wood blocks in them - but they are on a diagonal so the engine has come up way more than that..  Here is the final position of the engine, you can tell how high it is from the fan.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/FF2616AC-7D3D-43D9-AC41-319F21BD219A_zpsi8qtolkz.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/FF2616AC-7D3D-43D9-AC41-319F21BD219A_zpsi8qtolkz.jpg.html)

So now I have a bunch of cleanup to do.  I bought one of the fancy Fel-Pro gaskets, thank goodness I won't have to mess with RTV when squeezing the pan back in there.

I'm debating whether to do the rear main seal while I've got it open, any advice would be welcome.  I'm pretty sure the rear of the oil pan was leaking, because I didn't find any gasket material and it was really oily.  So maybe just the pan was leaking, but I'd hate to get it back together and find out the rear main is also leaking.

Here are some shots of the underside, if you see a problem speak now or forever hold your peace!!  Thanks guys!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/340F878A-771A-455E-94B9-5C431266E660_zpsagcw8ddj.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/340F878A-771A-455E-94B9-5C431266E660_zpsagcw8ddj.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/236BC65A-EE2B-4045-BA59-6AA0435A6146_zpsir9zzvwo.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/236BC65A-EE2B-4045-BA59-6AA0435A6146_zpsir9zzvwo.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/57DB1417-60CE-4175-89C5-D4D147EB79DE_zpshnt8kuuj.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/57DB1417-60CE-4175-89C5-D4D147EB79DE_zpshnt8kuuj.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on April 06, 2017, 01:13:25 PM
good job! DEFINITELY replace rear main seal at this time! good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eagleman on April 06, 2017, 04:40:55 PM
Would be a pity now that you have went this far and not replacing the rear main seal. If you don't you'll end up wishing you would have.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on April 06, 2017, 05:59:32 PM
Yep, replace the rear main seal, you've done 95% of the work already.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on April 06, 2017, 09:29:51 PM
Just use lots of caution putting it in to not tear it. Plus dip it in gladiator oil (motor oil lol)  before carefully pushing it in. Sorry bad puns there, but good advice.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 06, 2017, 09:34:44 PM
Thanks everybody for the encouragement!

Yeah, I guess I knew all along I'd be doing the rear main seal. That little voice in my head was insisting.  Plus, there is no way I'm going to go through all this again later!  I was able to do the seal pretty quickly, which surprised me.  Getting access was a battle, but the seal wasn't bad at all.  The old seal was pretty crunchy, and the edge where it seals against the crank was pretty worn.  So I feel pretty good about it.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/350101DB-BA9C-4E94-ACDB-29695475DCC0_zpsqv6rycke.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/350101DB-BA9C-4E94-ACDB-29695475DCC0_zpsqv6rycke.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/182C23D6-7F96-4418-9D26-C081D3611D6F_zpszjfsn6sn.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/182C23D6-7F96-4418-9D26-C081D3611D6F_zpszjfsn6sn.jpg.html)

I broke one of the oil pan bolts, so I had to drill and retap the hole.  Not too bad, luckily it was one that passes all the way through the block.  Then did a little work with the grinder and some black paint, and the oil pan was ready to go back in. 

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/E694F422-016F-48DC-A22B-9CE9E608CEFC_zpsbegcaql9.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/E694F422-016F-48DC-A22B-9CE9E608CEFC_zpsbegcaql9.jpg.html)

I like the Fel-Pro gasket, but I did add a skim coat of RTV along the rear edge.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/EFBEDD77-3972-4FBA-978B-555BEEE92A52_zps7ijplh0w.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/EFBEDD77-3972-4FBA-978B-555BEEE92A52_zps7ijplh0w.jpg.html)

The little clips that came with the gasket worked pretty well to hold the gasket in place on the block.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/A85E84A6-A108-4BAC-AE9D-4A3549079BF2_zpsnly1eoqi.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/A85E84A6-A108-4BAC-AE9D-4A3549079BF2_zpsnly1eoqi.jpg.html)

After all that work, it would be nice to have a good picture of something.  This was the best I could get.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/372A7DB6-6826-42F1-8D75-A484CECF3D5D_zpsu8u8bryv.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/372A7DB6-6826-42F1-8D75-A484CECF3D5D_zpsu8u8bryv.jpg.html)

Now all that's left is to put it all back together:  Lower the engine onto the mounts, raise the transmission and put back the crossmember, reconnect front and rear driveshafts, rehang the exhaust, put in the starter, connect radiator hoses and add fluid, connect the fuel line, oh and put back the front axle, connect the half shafts, and surely I'm forgetting something. You know, all the easy stuff.

Vangremlin, you said I was 95% done.  That last 5% gets me every time!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on April 06, 2017, 09:48:23 PM
The last 1 percent is the most wowwiesome. Thats the part where you turn the key crawl under and go ...................
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on April 07, 2017, 09:39:44 PM
Yep, that last bit gets us all.  Awesome job, and thanks for the photos!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 08, 2017, 12:40:07 AM
Thanks for that, something else to worry about!  :o  I really wasn't thinking that far ahead, but if it's still leaking I think I'll have to invent new cuss words.   :banghead:

I have to travel for work this week, so I won't get to put it back together until at least next weekend.  We can all suffer together!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 15, 2017, 09:57:29 AM
Wow, putting this thing back together is tough! It was a struggle to get the engine back down onto the mounts cleanly. It was raised about 6 inches, and wandered a lot sideways. It also wanted to tip over to one side, since I just had a floor jack under the oil pan. I kept at it and threw a couple ratchet straps on the engine to keep it upright, pulling toward the fenders.  Finally got it in the right spot and ran bolts through the mounts.

It's almost ready, just need to put the starter back on and I can test fire it. Fingers crossed! If all looks good, I can put the front axle back in and reconnect the driveshafts.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on April 15, 2017, 10:47:15 AM
Glad to hear you finally wrestled that beast into place.  Sounds like you were doing it just by yourself, that is quite a job for one person! 

I have no doubt you'll have a successful start up, then you'll be so eager to get back on the road everything will come together quickly!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 17, 2017, 12:28:06 AM
Good news, it still starts and runs!  I had a scare with a small leak from one of the oil pan bolts on the drivers side, right in the middle.  Best I can tell is that the gasket was "sqooshed" a bit when I lowered the engine - since I was using a floor jack and a 2x6 right under the pan.  I went back and re-torqued the bolts. Found 5 or 6 pan bolts on the driver's side were loose, and the leak stopped after they were tightened.  Whew!  Rear main seal appears to be leak free also, though I'm still pretty nervous.

Slowly putting everything else back together.  Yes vangremlin it's just me, and I'm just in a home garage with jack stands and a floor jack.  There is a lot of up and down to get tools, and laying under the car just planning the next step.  I really don't want to forget a step and have to take something back out - so I feel like I'm jumping around to random things and not staying on one task.

As an example, it has always been tough to find neutral - and to get to drive I have had to go to first, then back up to Drive.  Once the trans was dropped a bit and I could see better, I figured out that the selector lever had come loose on the trans shaft. I was able to get back on tight which is great but it was a detour from the rear main seal job.

So far I've done everything myself.  At one point last week my wife said "maybe you should get some professional help".  I'm 95% sure she was talking about the car, not a psychiatrist!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on April 17, 2017, 10:00:59 AM
  At one point last week my wife said "maybe you should get some professional help".  I'm 95% sure she was talking about the car, not a psychiatrist!

 ;D
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 20, 2017, 08:34:58 AM
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/0AA998A4-00DD-461F-942C-5676C9F2455C_zpskrweh062.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/0AA998A4-00DD-461F-942C-5676C9F2455C_zpskrweh062.jpg.html)

 :hello2: :hello2: :hello2:
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on April 20, 2017, 12:58:12 PM
 :occasion14:   :blob1:
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 20, 2017, 10:38:01 PM
I was feeling pretty good last night, that's for sure!  ;D  Got the Eagle back together and took it out of the garage for a victory lap off the neighborhood at about 11pm.  First time on the road since the new carb, 2" lift and suspension rebuild, and rear main seal/oil pan job.  It was a good ride, only one thing fell off!  One of the lug nuts had separated in two and the chrome cover fell off.  I'll take that.

All tucked back in for the night.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/C2762E91-C6F9-4020-A760-FFF216E4E937_zpsf4dts9vu.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/C2762E91-C6F9-4020-A760-FFF216E4E937_zpsf4dts9vu.jpg.html)

And then...I glanced under it today and the oil pan/rear main looks clean, but the dang fill plug on the front axle is leaking.  :banghead:  Anybody got a vote about this?  To tight or too loose?

I ordered some tires online and they came today, and that's probably what kept me from drinking after finding the leak!  Can't wait to see them installed.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4C3CEE61-A319-42F8-9B37-C5EDF13318F3_zpseg7gurgc.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4C3CEE61-A319-42F8-9B37-C5EDF13318F3_zpseg7gurgc.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/B5CC83D5-FA25-47B8-B85C-B7B5E8CABD9E_zpsz1zay0wi.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/B5CC83D5-FA25-47B8-B85C-B7B5E8CABD9E_zpsz1zay0wi.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on April 21, 2017, 11:34:07 AM
Dang, them's some beefy tires!  They will look great on your car!

I vote too loose on the fill plug.  I figure I have a 50/50 chance of being right  ;)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 21, 2017, 01:19:49 PM
I got kind of silly with the tires, I suppose.  They are 235/75/15 mud tires.  I'm planning on taking this across country on mostly dirt, and don't want mud to stop me.  I got the tires from a "recapper" place and shipped to me for $88 per tire.  What could possibly go wrong?  I have some Cherokee wheels, just need to clean them up and get the tires mounted.  I'll probably need to do some work on the front wheel wells for clearance, of course.

The list of mechanical tasks is getting pretty short (except for that stupid axle plug!) and I am really looking forward to working on the fun stuff to pretty this thing up.  It's been a lot of work this year, with very little visible to show.  Maaco is advertising a $299 sale in my area, and I'm hoping to prep it and let them spray it.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: djohnston89 on April 22, 2017, 09:41:10 AM
I'm quite interested to see how those tires perform, I'm pretty sure I was looking at the same re-capper's site. $88 a tire is a pretty solid deal, and they are gonna look awesome on your eagle!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 27, 2017, 03:27:44 PM
No news on the tires, haven't had a chance to get the wheels cleaned up yet.  But I did look at the front axle drain plug.  I took it out and was surprised to find that it's got pipe threads. I grabbed some teflon tape and put the plug back in.  No leaks so far, fingers crossed.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 05, 2017, 02:31:58 PM
Progress has been very slow the past couple weeks, just normal family stuff has gotten in the way.  I have a bunch of pictures but seems like I can't report that anything is complete.  Just trying to nibble away at it when I get an hour here and there.

Note to self:  NEVER mess with an oil pan again!  I've been chasing a couple small tiny leaks, fingers crossed that I got them all.  Now that I've actually driven the car a couple times, the very front of the pan is seeping a tiny bit.  I had used a little RTV with the fancy Fel-Pro gasket, but only on the block side and only across the front and back.  Maybe this was a bad idea.  I went under there, loosened the bolt in the front section and tried to jam RTV into the seam.  Then torqued all the bolts again - I've got the specs memorized now.  7 and 11 Ft-lbs, got it!

Let's see, got the wheels painted white (old school 4x4 style) and tires mounted.  The wheels came from a Cherokee and are 15x7.  I did some work on the passenger front fender, needed a little trim to clear the 235/75-15 tires.  So I've got 3 tires mounted right now, looks kind of funny.  But it's sitting nice and high - there is 9" clearance to the rear axle pumpkin and the next lowest thing is the exhaust at 11".

A buddy came to town and we started prep for paint.  Looks pretty rough right now, with a lot of rattle can primer.  And I've got all the flares and small bits off the car for painting.  Thank goodness the flares will cover my lousy fender work.

Big news is I went to the DMV and got a tag!  They insist on looking at the VIN in person down here, so I drove over.  It was nice to drive it finally, haven't been able to do that since late last year.  The lady took one look at the car and just shook her head, hah!  They were very confused about AMC, and almost issued the title as a Jeep.  I talked them through it and they finally found "American Motors Corp" in their system.

Enough chit chat, here are the pics you guys want!

Set of Cherokee wheels, scored off Craigslist.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/1BD89B22-AD31-417B-96DE-5052FE63C467_zpsnwnvygqm.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/1BD89B22-AD31-417B-96DE-5052FE63C467_zpsnwnvygqm.jpg.html)

I'm going with old school white wheels.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/2D7B1324-2036-4D9D-9255-55D3121B0478_zpsem01h3ds.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/2D7B1324-2036-4D9D-9255-55D3121B0478_zpsem01h3ds.jpg.html)

Looking good for the DMV!
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/EC1D9572-5CDC-4E8D-B44D-60B75A679D7D_zpskcck0wi7.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/EC1D9572-5CDC-4E8D-B44D-60B75A679D7D_zpskcck0wi7.jpg.html)

Disassembled front end
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/81B63F2C-71CB-4B2D-A5CB-C3B15773207F_zpssrcnhfan.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/81B63F2C-71CB-4B2D-A5CB-C3B15773207F_zpssrcnhfan.jpg.html)

Needs paint!
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/B9C5942C-FC20-421E-8CE8-A90B846F98EF_zpsjneqtkjh.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/B9C5942C-FC20-421E-8CE8-A90B846F98EF_zpsjneqtkjh.jpg.html)

Found some dirt in the rocker covers
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/B4CAA29E-E54B-4EEF-9620-98CB82E2C2CA_zpskpvoxnl4.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/B4CAA29E-E54B-4EEF-9620-98CB82E2C2CA_zpskpvoxnl4.jpg.html)

Paint prep
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/C4096C23-A632-4D31-B402-74C97AD199B3_zpsnsnlkbxr.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/C4096C23-A632-4D31-B402-74C97AD199B3_zpsnsnlkbxr.jpg.html)

Front fender modifications - will be hidden by the flares
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/78288918-1384-4408-B6B7-B37E86EE7210_zpsrgtxtjkl.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/78288918-1384-4408-B6B7-B37E86EE7210_zpsrgtxtjkl.jpg.html)

Plenty of room now.  Apologies to the purists.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/242F5D8B-64B8-46DF-8D43-E61F99408368_zpswhiadugd.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/242F5D8B-64B8-46DF-8D43-E61F99408368_zpswhiadugd.jpg.html)

A hint of what's to come...
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/FDB85E59-F7BE-4CD9-AFE8-55858A1BB164_zpsljywiqnr.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/FDB85E59-F7BE-4CD9-AFE8-55858A1BB164_zpsljywiqnr.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: djohnston89 on May 05, 2017, 11:05:11 PM
I love the white Cherokee wheels, reminds me of wagon wheels. Did you paint those yourself?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 06, 2017, 12:01:03 AM
Yep, a little scrubbing and sanding and 3 coats of Duplicolor wheel paint.  They came out pretty nice.  Cleanest thing on the whole car right now!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Still Pat on May 06, 2017, 12:21:59 PM
Definitely liking the wheels! I'll have to keep that in mind.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 17, 2017, 01:31:07 PM
Slow progress on the project, feels like I'm in that last 5% that takes 80% of the time.  Working on multiple fronts, and now trying to hit a mid-June launch date. 

I got the tires all mounted, and modified the fenders enough to clear the tires - I hope! We'll see if they rub, I guess.  I had some trouble finding a shop to do an alignment - most of them wouldn't touch it if it wasn't in their computer.  I called one last place, and the owner said he used to have an Eagle!  Hope it's in good hands, I just dropped it off at lunch today.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/406DDA8C-A3EB-4EE4-A922-2C926A680A1E_zps6becqep0.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/406DDA8C-A3EB-4EE4-A922-2C926A680A1E_zps6becqep0.jpg.html)

I worked up a design to mount a winch.  I think I can just squeeze it behind the factory bumper with some modifications.  I drew up some plans and sent them off to a fabrication shop, we'll see if it works!  I also mocked up a skid plate that's very close to the original AMC design.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/593C143E-EEF1-4B6E-A516-F4389EDE5E12_zps8iqndbsx.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/593C143E-EEF1-4B6E-A516-F4389EDE5E12_zps8iqndbsx.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/338E200D-B0A1-4D97-B38E-BBDFA69A2CB2_zpsbtvfjfma.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/338E200D-B0A1-4D97-B38E-BBDFA69A2CB2_zpsbtvfjfma.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/56E24A73-F33E-44ED-9BE6-B166C70E1AC6_zpsdpuwib1m.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/56E24A73-F33E-44ED-9BE6-B166C70E1AC6_zpsdpuwib1m.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/Eagle%20Winch%20Bumper%20V2_zpsm73zliob.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/Eagle%20Winch%20Bumper%20V2_zpsm73zliob.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/Front%20Skid%20Plate_zpscyqghs1i.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/Front%20Skid%20Plate_zpscyqghs1i.jpg.html)

I still need to finish prepping for paint, and take it to Maaco.  Hopefully next week!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: rmick on May 17, 2017, 10:58:35 PM
I would be interested in a skid plate if you mad an extra.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on May 18, 2017, 03:57:12 AM
I have a spare stock skid plate. I know it would cost a bit to ship, but I'd let it go for sure.

The winch setup looks nice...someone has some computer skills! :)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 18, 2017, 07:00:30 AM
I have a spare stock skid plate. I know it would cost a bit to ship, but I'd let it go for sure.

Wow, really? That would be great! I'll PM you.

I would be interested in a skid plate if you mad an extra.

I will at least get the quote from the fab shop and share that info here. If my designs work for the winch setup or the skid plate, I'll be happy to share dimensions here. They are still unproven, but I feel pretty confident they will fit. There is a risk that I only measured MY car, but I don't see any evidence of front end damage so I think it should be standard.

The winch setup looks nice...someone has some computer skills! :)

Hah, it only took me 2 months to figure out how to post pictures! Not so sure about my skills some days!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 19, 2017, 12:48:47 PM
Well, bad news from the shop the other day about the alignment.  The pitman arm is worn out, and there is some play in the right front wheel bearing/hub assembly.  :banghead:  I found out the other day and have been pretty frustrated ever since.  I thought I was coming to the end of the mechanical stuff, seems like it will never end some days.

Since the parts are not too expensive, I have ordered everything to rebuild the steering: pitman arm, idler arm, tie rods ends and sleeves.  Also got the bearings and seals to rebuild both front hubs.  I'm thinking to just go ahead and do it all so I know it's good - not just replace one or two parts and wait for the next problem to pop up.

So far I've done everything myself but I'm thinking of just having the shop do the steering and hubs.  I'm tired and :censored: off, and there is plenty of other stuff for me to do still.  I really don't have the equipment to do the hubs anyway, that would take a hydraulic press.

Sorry for the bad attitude, I'm just scrambling to get it all done in the next month.  I have a road trip lined up for June 23rd with some buddies and can't miss that deadline.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: djohnston89 on May 21, 2017, 11:29:46 PM
Deadlines suck, but they sure put the fire under your butt to get stuff done don't they?

So I'm curious, whatchya doin' for paint? Single stage? Base/Clear? Factory color, or something entirely different?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 22, 2017, 12:27:36 PM
Yeah, nothing fun about a deadline.  At least I'm not moving across country at the same time!

My wife and kids have been very supportive, so I'm out in the garage as much as possible.  I was going to do a cheap home paint job, but I think I need to let someone else help me.  I've got a couple leads on local shops, and of course there is always Maaco.  This is really going to be a trail runner, not a show car.  So I am planning for a single stage enamel, nothing fancy.

There was SOOooo much maroon/burgundy on this car inside and out, and I want to change the paint color.  I don't want to re-do the interior color, so I settled on white paint to go with the red interior.  I am also planning to add some AMC "flair" and have a little fun.  Here are some inspiration pics I found online, they hint at my crazy plan.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/F2A955A4-B2B6-4F3A-9FBC-DA850BF43ADC_zpsui32ai2l.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/F2A955A4-B2B6-4F3A-9FBC-DA850BF43ADC_zpsui32ai2l.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/1AB889F7-031B-449C-86D0-D487F335AC66_zpsvxwjzn82.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/1AB889F7-031B-449C-86D0-D487F335AC66_zpsvxwjzn82.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/9CC7372E-74D7-44F7-9650-BEF4C0DB9ECD_zpsuygbp9bf.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/9CC7372E-74D7-44F7-9650-BEF4C0DB9ECD_zpsuygbp9bf.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/A29A7617-E688-483D-8BEE-0296CE1EA9DA_zps6ome3vgv.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/A29A7617-E688-483D-8BEE-0296CE1EA9DA_zps6ome3vgv.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/719C6069-3280-462E-81AB-F3813BD01559_zpskfbqx2mx.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/719C6069-3280-462E-81AB-F3813BD01559_zpskfbqx2mx.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: djohnston89 on May 22, 2017, 12:57:24 PM
Oooh I especially like those last two! Have you considered going the rustoleum route? That's how I did my van; I used the "high performance enamel" in safety blue, thinned with mineral spirits and shot from a harbor freight hvlp gun. I also added Valspar Enamel hardener. Still looks good three years later and I've washed it maybe once and never bothered to wax or polish it. The best part though is that you can get rattle cans in the same colors for touch up paint  at pretty much any hardware store for about five dollars, which would be perfect for a trail runner  ;)

(http://i1374.photobucket.com/albums/ag439/djohnston89/00303_9fkWIIj46IJ_600x450_zps4qmebtmw.jpg)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on May 22, 2017, 01:16:49 PM
I painted a Ford Festiva with tractor paint from Tractor Supply. It looked fantastic for one month and then faded quickly. I guess I should have tried Rustoleom.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v637/svoman2300/photobucket-6541-1354553088321.jpg)


Here's another one for inspiration. That is John Deere Blitz Black on the bottom side.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v637/svoman2300/IMAG0088_zps25c159b2.jpg)

Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 22, 2017, 03:57:27 PM
Have you considered going the rustoleum route?

Actually, I was planning to go with Rustoleum and have done way too much research.  I was planning to roll it, there are some who say that works and I don't have a great place to spray.  In the end, I did all the prep work myself and will have somebody else shoot it.  I've got it fully taken apart, sanded and spot primed where needed.  There really shouldn't be much work left, so I'm hoping it will be cheap and save me some time.

I want to copy the scheme on the last two also - red, white and blue.  Blue power bulge on the hood, red stripes high on the side, and blue down on the rockers.  I will have the shop do the white only, and then I plan to do the red and blue with Rustoleum spray cans.  I'm also planning to run black flares and rocker covers, that will just be black bumper paint I think.  I'll keep most of the trim natural, not go crazy with blacking it out.  I want it to look like a throwback to the late 70's, even though it's an 88.

Here's another one for inspiration. That is John Deere Blitz Black on the bottom side.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v637/svoman2300/IMAG0088_zps25c159b2.jpg~original)

I'm not too sure about that Festiva, but I applaud the effort!  Your "big" wagon is another one on my list.  It looks great, especially after you did the sides in black. Really good graphics also with the "Eagle X".

On another note, i had some good news today about the AC.  I dropped it at a shop and they checked it out.  Looks like there is a wiring problem, so no power is getting to the compressor.  They were able to run power it directly manually and get cold air, probably for the first time in 15 years.  I suspected something wrong with the dash controls, as the vacuum is not being shunted to the heater bypass valve when in cold modes.  There's no vacuum leak in the engine bay, so something must be wrong under the hood.  But at least I won't need a compressor.  I guess it will need to get switched to R-134.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on May 22, 2017, 07:44:17 PM
I would do everything possible to keep R12 in it. R134a works mediocre in an Eagle and the A/C would be almost worthless in South Florida.

That Festiva is long gone but I have another one I just recently put another engine into. It's my daily driver since I have a 64 mile round trip commute to work. I bought it for the 40 mpg, but they are very fun cars to drive.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 22, 2017, 08:52:59 PM
I would do everything possible to keep R12 in it. R134a works mediocre in an Eagle and the A/C would be almost worthless in South Florida.

Understood.  This time of year it's starting to get crazy hot.  The rest of the year is just regular hot, of course.  The AC in my Jeep can barely keep up.  If there is still R12 in the system I will try to keep it, but I don't know if its got a full charge yet.

Do you know what the limiting factor is on performance with R134?  I would suspect the condenser first, probably.  I think new ones are parallel flow so they don't get gummed up so easily.  Compressor and all that would be the same, I think.  My condenser is pretty sketchy, the top couple of rows of fins are loose.  I haven't found a replacement but maybe there's a universal unit out there that would work, and be better in case R134 is used?  Hmmm...
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on May 22, 2017, 09:04:13 PM
hi, as for your dash controls for the AC, here is what it (probably) is: the switching is controlled by vacuum, and there is a vacuum connector that connects to the ac switch. This was made out of some weird rubbery, opaque, material, and after 30+ years, more or less disintegrates. This piece is unobtainium, so just replace it regular vacuum line. that switch can also be adjusted. may be all you need. look at a diagram of the heater/ac controls.  good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 23, 2017, 09:51:24 AM
I got an update on the AC from the shop this morning.  Looks like the HVAC head unit has problems.  They said it looks like somebody was in there playing with wiring, and the AC controls are beyond repair.  Luckily the fan speed still works.  They added a new toggle switch and ran it to the "pressure switch" and everything came to life.  I may try to find a new control unit, but for now I can manually turn on the AC.  Looks like all the expensive parts are fine, that's good news for sure.

This is the first outside shop to work on the Eagle, and I really don't like it!  I hate not seeing the details of the repair, and i'm having to just trust that they are doing the right thing.  I have control issues, I guess!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 24, 2017, 01:01:22 PM
While the car is out at the shop, I cleaned up the garage and started to prep a bunch of parts for paint.  This is the stuff I'll do myself with rattle cans.  The bumper caps and flares will be black.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4C295775-07E8-49B7-B93A-930A23D8AA67_zpsoxrwlyj7.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4C295775-07E8-49B7-B93A-930A23D8AA67_zpsoxrwlyj7.jpg.html)

I took the two long interior panels from the cargo area, just to get access to take the tail lights out for paint.  While they are out, I'm scrubbing and hitting with some Duplicolor Fabric and Trim paint, burgundy. The top panel shown below has already been sprayed with a light coat.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/18FECE23-26B8-4698-A6DB-80F9ECA51DEB_zpsnvq26ssx.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/18FECE23-26B8-4698-A6DB-80F9ECA51DEB_zpsnvq26ssx.jpg.html)

Here is an "after" shot on one of the panels (left side of pic) compared to an original kick panel that has not been painted.  Color is not perfect, but close enough for me.  Looks a lot better than it did, for sure.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/445C445A-0562-45D1-838D-BE16D6CFE25F_zpsnl72f89m.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/445C445A-0562-45D1-838D-BE16D6CFE25F_zpsnl72f89m.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 30, 2017, 10:00:29 PM
Some good news, and some frustrating news:  The shop has fixed the AC, though they were unable to repair the original HVAC control unit and had to wire a toggle switch for the AC.  But it blows cold and seems to be holding it's charge.  They did have to convert to R134, but I've felt the temp personally and it seems ok, even at idle.  I might look into a small pusher fan to hang in front of the condenser if it isn't cold enough later.  Also, somebody PM'd me and had an HVAC control head, so it's on the way now.  Thanks bud, you know who you are!

The frustrating part is that they kept finding stuff that isn't quite right in the front end.  I'm out of time (have a trip planned with buddies late June) and still lots to do, so I am having the shop replace the steering including pitman arm, idler arm, tie rod ands and adjusters.  They also rebuilt the front wheel bearing hubs, and called today to report that the old bearings were very damaged.  There was a low hum in the car,so hopefully that's the cause.  They have held the parts so I can inspect - probably not much chance that they have another old set of Eagle bearings laying around and are pulling a quick swap con on me!

While they are in there, they talked me into an upper ball joint (I had already done one side that was obviously bad), and new rotors and pads since they were already taking the old ones off.  Still not happy that so much was needed after almost a year of my effort, but this thing is jacked up 2" on big mud tires and at least now everything will be tight and fresh for offroad use.

In the meantime, I'm drowning my sorrows in black paint.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/0C4A29B6-691B-4492-90F3-2981CCA239EB_zps15362e0p.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/0C4A29B6-691B-4492-90F3-2981CCA239EB_zps15362e0p.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4FE14C92-0BAE-4CA4-B2DC-D3F2E3F711A8_zps6yzmthjk.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4FE14C92-0BAE-4CA4-B2DC-D3F2E3F711A8_zps6yzmthjk.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/5E3A0032-2E9C-426A-9004-B9A7935E2B27_zps4q4rbyi2.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/5E3A0032-2E9C-426A-9004-B9A7935E2B27_zps4q4rbyi2.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/AE92A919-D6E1-46F9-9C2F-6916547F3A49_zpshdzrapbe.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/AE92A919-D6E1-46F9-9C2F-6916547F3A49_zpshdzrapbe.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on May 30, 2017, 10:31:24 PM
Hey, your paint job looks really good!  Too bad that so much was needed on your car but its good that you have a shop that will work on it, and that way your car will be ready for the road.  Can't wait to see pictures of the trip!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 07, 2017, 01:40:04 PM
Not much progress to show.  I sprung my Eagle from the shop (ouch $$$) and had a quick session with it this past weekend to do some odds and ends.  I tried to attack the headliner with thumbtacks, but they were falling out as fast as I could put them in.  I did amuse myself by making some fun shapes, but in the end I pulled the headliner and will fix it the right way - new fabric is on the way.

Lots of little screws to take out the headliner! Hopefully I will still be able to make sense of my notes when re-installation comes around.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/DF0E3AEA-3C82-46D9-B8C8-6E719EF73C71_zpsrgsn87z5.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/DF0E3AEA-3C82-46D9-B8C8-6E719EF73C71_zpsrgsn87z5.jpg.html)

I dropped it off on Monday at the paint shop, and hoping to get it back this Friday or Saturday.  Nothing fancy, just a one-stage enamel job to clean it up a bit.  I asked them to do it in AMC's "Frost White" found on everything in the late 60's and early 70's.

While the car is gone, I'm digging through my parts bin and trying to clean everything up.  Not much time left until my deadline hits, and there is a lot of stuff to re-install after the paint is done.

The center cap on my steering wheel was pretty beat up.  The fake woodgrain was mostly gone, so I mounted it in the drill press and hit it with some sandpaper.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/34CB48D9-0081-4AE2-96EE-FACAD9295454_zpsmht37306.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/34CB48D9-0081-4AE2-96EE-FACAD9295454_zpsmht37306.jpg.html)

This is probably a good idea...just trying to find a place to mount it.
(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/04B13E2C-DDA0-42E9-A8DD-C4F3678678B7_zpsr5ogldke.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/04B13E2C-DDA0-42E9-A8DD-C4F3678678B7_zpsr5ogldke.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 09, 2017, 10:33:07 PM
Yay, got my wagon back from the paint shop!  Looks pretty good, though man the overspray is everywhere.  Got what I paid for though, and they threw in a can of flat back spray paint for me to hit the wheel wells, hah!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/6B706DF6-7F91-426B-BB5A-31E71E96AFA0_zpsc5fh3gmn.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/6B706DF6-7F91-426B-BB5A-31E71E96AFA0_zpsc5fh3gmn.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/8F02426A-5EC1-4C88-942F-144AAF192E16_zps5hllivuz.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/8F02426A-5EC1-4C88-942F-144AAF192E16_zps5hllivuz.jpg.html)

I guess it's time to start putting all this stuff back on!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/29B75CE5-DD23-4518-8735-DC9159AC1CDF_zpsxsqng3bh.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/29B75CE5-DD23-4518-8735-DC9159AC1CDF_zpsxsqng3bh.jpg.html)

And time to get some new fabric on the headliner too - so it stays off my eyebrows!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/0DA307E8-5BCC-4D35-9449-82E5DDD3F4B8_zps0vhm1uno.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/0DA307E8-5BCC-4D35-9449-82E5DDD3F4B8_zps0vhm1uno.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on June 09, 2017, 10:48:53 PM
That's coming along great.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on June 09, 2017, 11:55:38 PM
hi, i just redid my 84, and putting all the trim back on was a piece of work! More trim on the Eagle than your standard gingerbread house! good luck, gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 10, 2017, 12:22:58 AM
I'm excited to get it back into my garage, but man there is a lot still to do.  I have a hard deadline and need to leave for a trip on June 23rd, so I am going down the to-do list trying to decide what can be skipped.  I doubt I'll be able to swap the transfer case at this point.   >:(

We'll see how fast it all goes back together, wish me luck!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on June 10, 2017, 11:43:32 AM
Looking good!  And good luck, I'm sure you'll get done what you need to get done for your road trip.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: djohnston89 on June 10, 2017, 09:06:26 PM
Lookin good!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 14, 2017, 11:19:54 AM
I'm making some progress getting this all back together.  The big pile of parts is getting a little smaller, day by day.

I got new fabric on the headliner, not quite the same color as original but it will do fine.  At least it won't be hanging down.  Plus, if I flip over this is a good color to hide the blood.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4AF9BFF1-FFD9-4CC2-82C3-55973642C030_zps983gxhh5.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4AF9BFF1-FFD9-4CC2-82C3-55973642C030_zps983gxhh5.jpg.html)

I started on the top and I'm working my way down!  Got the roof trim back on after modifying some clips and drilling larger holes for the trim.  I snuck some silicone under there too, so I hope it's water tight.  There's a hole in the very front where a CB antenna used to be.  I'm going to use the same hole to run power to the roof for a couple lights, and maybe an external trail camera.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/A9BF7C45-0950-4062-BE5F-4A025530421D_zpsg9ieazy3.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/A9BF7C45-0950-4062-BE5F-4A025530421D_zpsg9ieazy3.jpg.html)

I got my second-hand cargo basket mounted.  I'm using the factory roof rails in the back, and using gutter mounts in the front.  So there are 4 cross bars, hopefully that will be plenty.  I need to get some U-Bolts for the rear bars still.  I had to clean up the threads on the factory rail locks, they were pretty rusty.  They are left hand thread though, so I couldn't use a tap - just soaked in PBlaster for a while.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/736E30C1-0FAD-40E9-9171-9F5077A74E68_zpsuhnqd7sz.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/736E30C1-0FAD-40E9-9171-9F5077A74E68_zpsuhnqd7sz.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4CE6DA7F-01D3-4D63-A8EA-8B2D2925D106_zpstytktlne.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4CE6DA7F-01D3-4D63-A8EA-8B2D2925D106_zpstytktlne.jpg.html)

Close up of the gutter mounts.

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/55AD747E-0C80-4815-BA99-944E3EFF2B48_zps2kisxwqh.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/55AD747E-0C80-4815-BA99-944E3EFF2B48_zps2kisxwqh.jpg.html)

I also got this picture from my fab shop.  Looks like the winch bumper will be here by the weekend.  I hope I can get it mounted in time!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/CB626E82-3BBB-4C78-83B7-694C7F50B391_zpsbyaggf9p.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/CB626E82-3BBB-4C78-83B7-694C7F50B391_zpsbyaggf9p.jpg.html)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on June 14, 2017, 12:07:57 PM
Good job with the headliner. I used 3 factory crossbars to hold my cargo rack and it held a bit of weight. You could hold more than you need there with the 4 bars you have. The winch mount looks great. I hope it fits as well as it looks.
  Seeing your garage door reminded me of when I used to install garage doors in FL. After hurricane Andrew, the building codes got really strict and those large struts were a way one manufacturer got their doors to meet the wind load requirements. You have 4" struts. Doors installed near the coast had 6" struts. I installed a couple doors where the homeowner could no longer fit their car in the garage because the struts stuck out too far. They weren't too happy.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 16, 2017, 10:00:25 AM
Thanks eaglefreek, I'm hoping the winch setup fits too!  It should be here today so I can find out for sure.  That's funny about the garage doors, there certainly is something different about Florida.  I'm still getting used to a few things about the way houses are built, etc.

In fact, here's one: Water gets everywhere and does not go away!  I noticed my hi-beams were starting to fog up inside, and now they are swimming.  This is after being in my (mostly) dry garage for a year.  It's very humid here, but come on!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/32FA717D-067E-40FC-A5C4-E56254808C48_zpschttlvki.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/32FA717D-067E-40FC-A5C4-E56254808C48_zpschttlvki.jpg.html)

Things are coming together, lots of little things happening.  My pile of parts is getting smaller.  Bear with me for a few pics!

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/1F3FE6BF-20BB-4FB6-B2DF-F471FED10C03_zpshsuohob7.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/1F3FE6BF-20BB-4FB6-B2DF-F471FED10C03_zpshsuohob7.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/1CBDA16F-EF43-4C88-9B4F-FE3DE3CFA372_zpsqwy281bp.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/1CBDA16F-EF43-4C88-9B4F-FE3DE3CFA372_zpsqwy281bp.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4CF71528-6358-4762-B9D4-E2285441B647_zps3ngfa3im.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4CF71528-6358-4762-B9D4-E2285441B647_zps3ngfa3im.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/4C4BEDA1-5384-4371-A4BE-DC38CE47DD41_zpsxa3fbhoc.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/4C4BEDA1-5384-4371-A4BE-DC38CE47DD41_zpsxa3fbhoc.jpg.html)

I was working on wiring up some LED lights late last night.  Got to finish that before the headliner can go back in.  There was a hole for a CB antenna, so I used that for the wiring.


(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/21C22E90-6EA1-480D-A517-1105852033F6_zps9sfyja45.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/21C22E90-6EA1-480D-A517-1105852033F6_zps9sfyja45.jpg.html)

(http://i318.photobucket.com/albums/mm404/amarshallpics/AMC%20Eagle/B5C3F28B-E897-4DEB-8417-6C435673C102_zpsgeizfh5w.jpg~original) (http://s318.photobucket.com/user/amarshallpics/media/AMC%20Eagle/B5C3F28B-E897-4DEB-8417-6C435673C102_zpsgeizfh5w.jpg.html)

I'm hoping to get some more time this weekend to play with the winch.  Getting close now!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on June 16, 2017, 11:52:16 AM
Looking really sharp!  Gonna be a really nice Eagle when its all back together!!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: TEagle85 on June 16, 2017, 01:52:27 PM
Awesome!!!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mo.eagles on June 16, 2017, 05:39:17 PM
Great work ! Where  did you find a mirror that's not pitted ?  My head lights have filled up like that here in Mo. One had about an inch of water and you could see it in the beams shining on the road ahead of you .
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on June 16, 2017, 08:22:42 PM
Where  did you find a mirror that's not pitted ? 

That only happens in the rust belt where they put salt on the road. I got some hatch hinges from a member, who is no longer here and when I received them, they looked like they were sitting on the bottom of the ocean for a few years. The ones that broke on mine looked like brand new.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 16, 2017, 08:43:29 PM
The mirrors aren't perfect for sure. That picture makes them look much better than they really are. I took some Simichrome and steel wool and hit all the trim and chrome while it was off. It's very shiny but still has some pitting.

Biggest problem with the mirrors is that they are loose. The control cables stretched so bad that they both just wobble around. I looked at fixing the cables but it was pretty tough. My quick fix will be to squeeze some foM weatherstripping around the mirror to hold it in place, but still allow adjustment.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on June 18, 2017, 02:14:44 PM
Wow, it sure is coming together!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on June 26, 2017, 12:09:16 PM
I assume Aaron will start a thread of his adventure when he has some down time, but I thought I'd share a few pics. In my Isuzu Trooper, I met Aaron in NC on Saturday afternoon at the start of his Trans America Trail adventure. He had a buddy who was a codriver and two more buddies on dual sports. We put on some miles on Saturday and started again Sunday morning. They hooked up with more guys on bikes at the lodge Saturday night.  It involves as much unpaved roads as possible. I thought I would be the one to possibly help Aaron since he got his Eagle together just in time to get on the road. However, I finished my journey in a tow truck. I think it's the fuel pump.
(http://i.imgur.com/hrfDsY2.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Sz9tRdY.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/rpCt1Jj.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/78jkJ3L.jpg)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on July 07, 2017, 07:02:39 PM
Very cool! Sucks about the Troopy though!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 08, 2017, 10:27:45 PM
I'm back in Florida after a crazy week with the Eagle.  I got home in time for the 4th of July fun, barely.  Since then I've been in recovery mode, the preparation and the trip wore me out!

We had a great 8 day trip, as Rick hinted above.  We ended up doing about 900 miles off road, from Andrews NC to Tupelo MS.  With the mileage out of Florida and off the trail I figure I did about 2200 for the week.  The tally for the week includes a snapped front axle shaft, two stitches in my hand, a broken and floppy driver's door handle.  The Eagle hung in there pretty well, but you could tell I barely got it back together for the trip.  At the last minute there was a bunch of stuff I couldn't get to. Front flares are still off, the winch is complete except for the actual cable, etc etc. I had boxes of parts in the back, and I'd try to do a little more each night but keeping up with 100% critical stuff was the focus.

Clearance for the tires was a consistent problem, as we loaded way too much gear into it.  We stopped on day 1 to borrow a grinder and make some clearance in the back fenders.  The plastic flares are on in the back but rubbed pretty good on big corners or whoop-dee-doos.  The big fat 235/75-15 tires are probably a little too big but they were the smallest mud tires I could find and I think that was the right choice.  Traction was never an issue, but man those tires are LOUD.  I thought I had a rear end problem for sure, and even took it to a shop for rear wheel bearings.  They drove it and laughed, but confirmed that the crazy hum was the tires and not a rear end problem.

Another consistent concern was the transmission temp.  There was a lot of long uphills, and the coolant temp gauge would spike to the top of the "safe" level.  We talked about a stuck thermostat and some other ideas, but in the end we decided it was the trans fluid heating up the radiator and then the engine.  Coasting downhill even for a little bit had an immediate cooling effect, so eventually we just learned to manage it.  Rick and I made a run to a parts store and got an external trans cooler, but I never managed to get it onto the car during the trip.

Breaking the front axle shaft on Day 4 was no fun, but I'm pretty proud of the response.  I was coming across a washout and probably gave it a little too much gas while turned pretty hard right in 4WD.  Maybe not 100% avoidable, but I'm confident I will change my driving style in the future.  I'm used to Jeeps and the trip really taught me how the Eagle is different.  Anyway, the axle snapped and started flopping around.  I had it secured to the strut rod with some zip ties and we were rolling again in 2WD before our motorcycle buddies noticed we were gone and came back to find us.  The look on their faces when we pulled up and said "we busted an axle" was priceless - they couldn't quite figure that one out.  The shaft that broke was only about a week old, since I had a torn boot on the passenger side.  Luckily I stashed the old axle in the trunk, and we found a shop willing to put it in.  An hour later and we were back on the road, with a plastic bag "diaper" around the boot to keep the grease from splashing.

The worst problem was on the last trail day, thankfully.  We came through a puddle (hiding a pit) and took a pretty big hit to the front left.  The strut rod bushings burst, and by the time I got off the trail and back to a hotel there was tons of play in the right strut rod - about 3/4".  I think the nuts worked themselves loose since the threads are OK.  The left front tire was pushed back about an inch, eating into the fender.  I'm pretty sure something is bent, as the alignment went crazy and I had to make some field adjustments to limp back to Nashville.  It's probably the lower control arm on the left, but may be more.

I'm shipping the car back to Florida, since there is so much left to do and the front end is messed up.  Rick (Eaglefreek)  kindly offered to help but there is just so much it wouldn't be fair.  But it was great meeting him in real life, and I sure will benefit from his experience!  The plan is to pick up the trail in Tupelo later this year and keep going west.  Eventually the trail (and hopefully the Eagle) will make it to the Pacific Ocean in Oregon.

I have a bunch of pictures, but with Photobucket's recent change I want to find a better way to post them.  Bear with me!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amcfool1 on July 09, 2017, 03:39:18 AM
hi, glad you made the trip there and back, but, remember, the Eagle was never designed as an off road vehicle. next time, take a @#$%%^ Jeep!  :) gz
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 09, 2017, 08:29:47 AM
hi, glad you made the trip there and back, but, remember, the Eagle was never designed as an off road vehicle. next time, take a @#$%%^ Jeep!  :) gz

I deserved that one!  Hah!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on July 09, 2017, 08:52:45 AM
I figured you'd be totally drained when you made it home, so that's why I didn't bug you. The Eagle does fine moderately offroad, you just have to know it's limitations and not drive it like your racing the Baja 1000.  ;D I don't think you need those large mud tires and smaller all terrains will work anywhere the Eagle can go. I never struggled with traction with my all terrains on my Eagle and I drove that in different terrains in many states. Since the Isuzu Trooper is IFS, also,  I've seen on Isuzu forum where new Chinese axle shafts snap in a very short time. The guys on that forum try to find OEM ones in junkayrds instead of buying new ones.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 10, 2017, 10:30:25 AM
Hey Rick!  I was beat for sure, that week wore me out!  Dawn to dark on the move, and camping every night tend to wear you out.  I agree with you on the driving style.  You met my co-driver, who thinks he's Mario Andretti.  I'll need to slow it down next time.

The tires are overkill, but I've seen too many videos of miles-long mud patches in the Ozarks and didn't want to get stuck.  Plus, they look so darn cool!  I will either need to work on the rear fenders some more, or maybe look for a slightly longer rear leaf shackle.  I have a 3" Jeep CJ shackle in the rear now, and the stock ones are 3-1/2".  I did find some 4" offset shackles that would let me go back to the stock hangers (I think) and would give me another 1/2" lift.  Plus, I need to lighten the load next time by about half!

I had heard that replacement axles were lower quality too.  I will try to find a boot kit for my old axle, and maybe look around for some salvage axles in fair shape.

Lots still to do, but I'm eager to jump in when I get the Eagle back home.  Last I heard the carrier was supposed to pick it up this week.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 11, 2017, 04:45:53 PM
Just got word that my Eagle is on the back of a truck!  I feel sorry for that Mercedes below it, hah!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gVYHw0Y9cEKLF-7Bt5LcLZJbjfidWgvKCEYcCXs22Z16HrzmY2rzZKcTQ5ZQGHn4eN_bL9GUzWcjnJ1y-pYLlFC3Wae_85Gb3MPNl4LoJ_rtryluBco0ypQNGIt9VRTFU7W-C4J9KA=s804-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 21, 2017, 09:53:20 AM
Time for an update, and hopefully I've got the pictures figured out.  First, a little more info about my recent road trip.  I did a lot of mileage, and recorded my path with a GPS app.  Each day is a different color, and some days we only managed 80 miles off road.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xT5u-QlDRik7cyWHKVsvuRcWkhIqYYt4CnS0Fh4U6in6ct_5EODiRZfFYhuR14OsdVqVRTrrrkSb6KjYtJJDe5xVu-9-k2GufyNlUKt7mDS6iQTtJ3KKFREc9uc_JMeEDIuxCmh3XQ=w453-h804-no)

Started off nice and clean, didn't stay that way for long!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nhVnybPyvyo1SYhNq5wamKnztaHNkpLhKt7frMnEu7EJfAGYZnNiO6hX0s-37prpQPk3qXJOtgDAuWHziwuold6vK16BqMg7gUrn9vX-qZLOm-144vZNiOnbbhlLIcNI3SbFrvBsSA=w1072-h804-no)

After I picked up my co-driver in Atlanta the extra weight made the rear fenders rub the tires.  A little "field modification" was needed.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/GSR8U6j9zwKqhgyMdJeona3rGPDyvc3h6KSAcwGCKuWtjNHlDy8Sup6TWAxBKsKz3YaBDJe08uw-q-dZzZyG6-OiMbgq9ND6-YFx9YWz2uz6diP-H8JiA5kygsgfmlTlP_B2NNGbbg=w603-h804-no)

We hung with Rick/eaglefreek for a couple days, but the rest of the week it was just the Eagle and two guys on bikes.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vjZyKfK4R7K33YJURaprgTbdX9hQdiKsiZVBxSXTzK3jwQSJ1b3bvHXcw1nBPY-K_aspEN8GcEsSJhBmRx4LQaOUVSrGqTxuty7H1i2b980LKXSg0SaDRM5Ig0phKtrEbWrOnHfOFw=s804-no)

We camped most nights and found some great spots.  This was near Pickwick Dam in TN.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OaXOwUIFZdXGaLQzUFaRfoibgltzDxIACSHBGevmkChbsYXCc85PxylCBNwvfL_YkmHWQTbmSuSkbRgVZpuyFyOGvEEBEx-FLTtSe_-bYj8Rq_XuOfwExtFph-lG5-4WTNxtL0fDOA=w1072-h804-no)

So now some pics of the Eagle "after".  It held together pretty well, considering we did almost 1000 miles off road.

Who had the idea to paint the wheels white?? I should have made them brown!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/C8H0RLM3VUa6sp6T_52qt1m8xT6aZPCis-M-9ecVV3YKktgeCEzCTjFJiXdfDRSdoWf_R4ID7sVdobXuS5nWpcxflLvwB1D6hSazk9N_OAms8ZMjnWBHq3S0pUWk_ypl-TgSP_BPbw=w1072-h804-no)

After we broke an axle I replaced it with an old one but the boot was torn.  We used a plastic bag to make a temporary diaper.  I bought a boot kit, but don't have any special "stretchy" tools so that should be interesting.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yzs-lz6XzOIvuyyVwLFiWz37I5Wtx3NsI3W6kgno5NqdoBe7vbteYaVYNt0hGyMwCzsHJisyR2NOwdmu7Fyr9TyWAvA-vcD8hCl6Atncsspm9BldROQg3uV3xEu-g7l5xzJkENGExQ=w1072-h804-no)

Hit a big puddle (hiding a pit) on the last day and messed up the front end.  Both strut rod bushings split.  They were brand new rubber bushings, so I'm planning to use polyurethane bushings this time.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EhBRzOOottOD-gAQeBlo0aojGhMInXwNxv8gzwacsIeY7f2vY0TDItBIxmqUwX3yP-fs53YVYTXAeG7hD-DbF-4GtgzWxsr-n5yOvVCRcucZkZEJoENg38Sh0Wfw8FSC0Wg3ZEIUKw=w1072-h804-no)

The good news is that I've looked at the front end and nothing obvious is bent.  I think the impact killed the lower control arm bushings, and the control arms are both pushed way to the back in their mounts.  I can get a whole finger in the gap on the front side, and there is zero clearance in the rear.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mcjQGQrtfyxxncEgRhb762ZvleY5FVG8ipuyp89uQxZ7Ct6rwGufHAQ_KZJzLdHcWBBJ2Re5RYHpVBSAZOM3YL_T9I7reDprqzYdqpjQhe_bwZWwhXLeIWWBVyMmYH8eWbnVjVcrTQ=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DM4C3dUTQ5NLrwHS91t8RoNMC7ruue6cDB59Fy9yelgSMqcJKRJtC63x3khe6au1Bf4562SRzgYDrc0VhlhTqlFyh13AkiuaOdDgdfo4I5ivsqV9ZWYGmdtQme-nfCXEDHp8N_1WIw=w1072-h804-no)

I never replaced the control arm bushings, guess I should have done that.  I will do the uppers also.  I'm hoping that new bushings will "fix" the front end.  I've already done almost everything else in the front end, so nothing is left anyway.

The trans is leaking a little, and it looks like it's coming from above the pan.  Maybe I will chase that...

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/B6a1dkyidqM_8A9udPniaNYFk8TePw_MLOkaDsIvDR0fcEC9OJV-0jl57mpS6cmy0bPOLqxtm2Bu44AhEgmg08OxTSFQt8txllHthlvnwM8HBWtnhAToJl9IfcKIC2-vPgFs-xIXww=w1072-h804-no)

I've got a bunch of pics from the last few weeks before the trip.  There was a lot of activity, but very little time.  I'll try to get some stuff posted soon.  I'm proud of the winch setup in particular.

I want to thank Rick for joining our trip and offering help and advice.  You guys are great too, and I'm glad I found this forum.  I wouldn't want to try this stuff all by myself!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on July 21, 2017, 03:16:18 PM
Sounds like it was a fun trip til the end!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 21, 2017, 03:21:39 PM
It was fun for sure, but also a lot of work.  Every day was a struggle to keep the car healthy and moving, and I didn't want to slow down the bikes.  For the second leg I will get it dialed in better before the trip, and hopefully have an easier time.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on July 21, 2017, 09:32:49 PM
i just read this whole thing from the beginning and dude you have done a lot to your Eagle. I like what you've done so far and I can't wait to see what you do next. As for some of the pictures from photobucket I can't see them but I was particularly curious about the ones concerning the paint job ideas you had as they sound like some I had mocked up in paint with a drawing I found on here.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: trucker79005 on July 21, 2017, 11:07:08 PM
hi, glad you made the trip there and back, but, remember, the Eagle was never designed as an off road vehicle. next time, take a @#$%%^ Jeep!  :) gz

Was just reading a little about the trip. Hoping i didn't make a mistake in thinking an Eagle would get me in and out of my house when it rains..... some time the ruts are way worse than the pics show. there is two miles of this and at its worst its taken 30-40 minutes to make the two miles in the pickups. How sorry am I going to be???? :-\
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 22, 2017, 12:28:44 AM
i just read this whole thing from the beginning and dude you have done a lot to your Eagle. I like what you've done so far and I can't wait to see what you do next. As for some of the pictures from photobucket I can't see them but I was particularly curious about the ones concerning the paint job ideas you had as they sound like some I had mocked up in paint with a drawing I found on here.

I think I've figured out a reliable way to get photos to show from Google instead of Photobucket, so I need to find some time to go back and fix the images.  I'll look for the paint stuff first.  It's currently white, but I really want to add some red and blue accents.  It's too subtle for me now!

Hoping i didn't make a mistake in thinking an Eagle would get me in and out of my house when it rains..... some time the ruts are way worse than the pics show. there is two miles of this and at its worst its taken 30-40 minutes to make the two miles in the pickups. How sorry am I going to be???? :-\

I really think you will be OK.  What a great drive home!  The Eagle does great at creating traction, which is what you'll need for that mud.  You will probably want to get mud tires instead of all terrains if that mud is typical.  I had absolutely no problems with traction, and probably could have run the whole 900+ miles in 2WD.  Where I got into trouble was on very bumpy or rocky stuff, and of course we were ALWAYS going too fast so we were beating up the car pretty badly.  I need to slow it down next time.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on July 22, 2017, 06:43:43 PM
cool dude. By the way is this one of the pictures you found?
(https://i44.servimg.com/u/f44/14/94/93/40/th/amx_ea14.png) (https://servimg.com/view/14949340/222)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 22, 2017, 07:46:57 PM
I've seen that one, but the red top looks like too much work for me.  Hah!  I went looking for old AMC cars, and I found a couple that I liked.  The Gremlin X was cool, and there is a Rebel model called "The Machine" that I liked too.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on July 22, 2017, 07:53:09 PM
yeah those both have some pretty cool paint schemes for them.  As for the picture I posted that's kind of what I would like to do with a sport Eagle be it wagon or not but the car that gets it will be a very wild build. >:D
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 22, 2017, 08:17:07 PM
I went back and fixed all the photobucket links, see if you can see them now maddog.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on July 22, 2017, 08:49:37 PM
yes I can see them now thank you. I just remembered reading in one of your posts that you broke a door handle. Do you have a spare one if not you can get a new one on Amazon but you'll have to look under jeep wrangler half doors, they come in both black and chrome and lots of different prices. I had to buy four of them myself and I've had them for about three or four years and the only complaint I've had with them is that the clips that came with mine didn't fit the rod to the latch very snugly so I had to zip tie the one on my driver door down other than that I've had no issues with them.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: trucker79005 on July 22, 2017, 11:34:52 PM
I really think you will be OK.  What a great drive home!  The Eagle does great at creating traction, which is what you'll need for that mud.  You will probably want to get mud tires instead of all terrains if that mud is typical.  I had absolutely no problems with traction, and probably could have run the whole 900+ miles in 2WD.  Where I got into trouble was on very bumpy or rocky stuff, and of course we were ALWAYS going too fast so we were beating up the car pretty badly.  I need to slow it down next time.

I've been in the areas that you went through and even the highways are interesting sometimes. I bet that offroad really was something...Mine is a great drive home if you're well rested, on your game, and not in a hurry:) Unfortunately mud is not typical in the texas panhandle but it is unpredictable. You can leave home in the morning with the 2 wd and think you're ok but by afternoon you wouldn't be able to get home without 4WD. appreciate the input! trying to sort out the tire deal.... I'll enjoy looking though that thread too if you get pics back in it.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 24, 2017, 04:25:21 PM
Thanks for the info on the door handles, maddog.  I've ordered a chrome pair online, figure I may as well do the front passenger door too before it breaks.  I'll take my chances on the rear doors.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on July 24, 2017, 04:46:29 PM
Before I jump into the front end rebuild (again, ugh) I am ticking some things off the list that never got done before the first leg of the cross-country trail.  I now have some very bright LED lights on my Eagle.  There are two spots on the front bumper for fog lights, and there is a pair of floods on the front and rear of the roof rack.  I ran power to the roof through a hole that already existed. Some PO had put a CB antenna up front on the roof.

I made a little switch panel out of some aluminum angle and wired up some red switches.  I figure the inside of this thing needs more stuff that is red.  I hung the panel under the 2WD/4WD switch.  I think it came out pretty good.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LUzd3dqNzi9nxX5HS1EeWBEKY4qj54983CP1PAFvmn-kqGQJvuTLVccrtfdHihFAI6A8FNIR4Zv0CHzoYpV_7tGjCl61Rsg3bZzSEXyaE6fghGIkPp45BsLqAnf9Sm9a74mcz0z_Gg=s804-no)

Here is a shot in a dark garage with all the lights on.  The picture doesn't do it justice, they are nice and bright.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y9pC4XwRke7Z7UFLag8zHEmlWoBwcB8MBqKPVhgtwE1J2xraXsftEi_B2hxnOY2yWIyR_SPfQJlmZXv-2hXFzs9VBy88CNfk5Mxuri5eKSFiH6PLnw2LvBlNrv2oDUP-DDa0BZ9azw=w1072-h804-no)

Each light pod is supposed to draw 18W and give off 1200 lumens, so it's pretty bright.  With all 6 lamps turned on, it's still only pulling 9 amps so I ran everything through a 10A fuse.  Each switch is only handling 3A, so I didn't bother with relays either.  I'll keep an eye on the wiring, just in case.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on July 24, 2017, 09:33:34 PM
i think it looks good dude. I have a couple of LEDs on Eagle Eyes and I blinded one of my neighbors in broad daylight with them and that was before I installed a relay (mine are also 1200 lumens), so I know just how bright those things can be. I also like the braket you came up with for your switches.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on August 27, 2017, 04:34:31 PM
Wow, a month has passed since I updated this thread!  Sorry for the five of you that are following along!  We took some vacation, kids started school, etc, etc.

I had a chance to wash the car and get most of the mud out from underneath.  There was probably 10 lbs of red clay, dirt, and muck from my recent off road trip.  My driveway took a hit, and the Florida neighbors were scratching their head trying to figure out why the dirt was red!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/phxOfO68xJWchWN-VXI1VVIR7xCSxswL2fOhrQJyICQLA6TBPTgVLxJm_Gjb0fdGrT4BfoHYi2Vg6SSzZcC0VAhWp8nHvC8voGewvwTj-ASo9Aznzum_dc6RWOE4nsz9APVmbtZA9g=w1072-h804-no)

I played around with some side mirrors, and finally landed on the black ones recommended by vangremlin in another thread. My original mirrors were flopping around like crazy due to stretched cables.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q7W4-AQzOfFSgo1-LSgo0iBQ8QuZmLP6nzTIhVUAe7w9XO7cF-0u-LHvdlCnEGMQtkxHsSa5M1bLmSqPisQNSo9goOHg6fCjQ_AZKKcn4MyD8cZcXcJ2wGsWBQ7fV9Z4V0mjSvCPoQ=w1072-h804-no)

This week I reluctantly dove into the rebuild of my front end.  I had done everything except the control arm bushings before my trip, and of course they disintegrated after 900+ miles off road.  The brand new strut rod donut bushings cracked and popped out of the joint, not great for camber!  Luckily nothing seems bent, so a full rebuild should fix it up for round 2 on the trails.

This is how it sits as of today:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/J3DlatadCQmgUzSI_hAhlfgaeOGxNmkTMiLl4p4y_XYwfGj-lrqItVmhmWUHopYcL3JjtGse2Cq17QKm2kAEf-FdVsr146UNeAxGxE4NYS7MypH3Sd9Hs09SH59jdz5l6e1vwG2j5A=w1072-h804-no)

I hope I can remember where all this stuff goes!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/khwH_q7LP0wAAHV7gjN1O-yKdRKT5--8248mr8ll-6YJiS5L7mrApQe0mz7mOk1nQKeB53WKsQ_NNeMdKSsyTICCMFPEazjB9Eo2Zb4rpqH_niKPiPZjLE9my_srzIHF3KTWKb7vyg=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XSBONh8r2YaoFYzzpYNLMCu5xHp4MBRxKI7gNSBEAha52uWDgbrw0tfg3Rrq4fTZv3Buhp9T8z67taqUhHrKJKZ8lJeg1Wj1AW9nTu8V36NruyPPGCP9jn2N-pMREwNkwxTZe1lIiA=w603-h804-no)

I broke a front axle on the trip, and I had a chance to compare an original Eagle axle with the brand new replacement.  The original axles are much stronger, there is simply no comparison.  For a spare for the next trail segment, I was able to talk forum member RALLYX-SX/4 into sending me an original axle off his burned parts car - thanks buddy!

Here are some side-by-side shots of the old and new axles.  New style are smaller diameter and much weaker.  Also, the original ones have a thick flange where my finger is pointing in the second picture.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hOT_SA5VgKzT2nccCsY7mCEN3aAeH4T0Fwp4fmlZL4EhONbGHkLxnLzr77sqNtnsQ-sMyuq8OkE4rPZBMdUxfJfsT-LTFlJ0Uwxp4qNRtrc8mKy6LGbC8kwARW2bHj2ku5AaOB40Iw=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_SqkmCVNDnW9vD9FHZe-5WvqGsGNt_A3LjIrp3-gkoWxJRLMex_D4cFRQttnEkvU7mf18RFid0nD7gjXfrh8JjWzFpPQF8MeRe5d8P73yfleVV8KG5rVf5ZCCKLnkqjXweJTJPdLVQ=w1072-h804-no)

I still have a leaky oil pan (ARGH!) and my motor mounts are worn out.  While I've got the front suspension out, my current plan is to remove the front crossmember and do the oil pan gasket again.  I'll also sneak the new motor mounts in from below.  Compared to the way I did the oil pan before, the amount of effort is probably about the same - both are a lot of work.  But I'm doing suspension anyway so a lot of the work is needed.  Plus, I should be able to start and run the engine before I put the suspension back in, so I can find any leaks before putting it all back together.

The next segment of our cross-country off road adventure has been scheduled for early November.  It seems like plenty of time to get ready, but you all know how that goes!  Wish me luck!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on August 27, 2017, 05:26:28 PM
Good work. Btw i follow all threads.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on August 27, 2017, 05:27:49 PM
Thanks for the update!  I'm sure you'll get it all done - with plenty of time to spare  ;)

Those new mirrors look really nice!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on August 28, 2017, 02:07:56 PM
I reluctantly need to do my front end too. Not looking forward to it!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on August 28, 2017, 03:15:24 PM
At the risk of eating my words later, so far it's going pretty smooth.  It's a big job of course, but not as bad as I had feared before starting.  It will be nice to have it 100% done, and all back together.  This is not a true restoration project, so I will clean things up and maybe hit them lightly with some paint but nothing too crazy.  I won't be scrubbing everything with a toothbrush, since it's just going back onto trails and will get mud caked again.

Of course, if something breaks again I will know for sure that it's my driving.   :banghead:
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on August 29, 2017, 06:53:16 PM


Of course, if something breaks again I will know for sure that it's my driving.   :banghead:
Or Thom's driving.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on August 29, 2017, 09:23:14 PM
Or Thom's driving.

Well, I didn't want to blame my co-driver for all the rough miles on the first trip.  But he's good for half at least, hah!  I broke the front axle, but he found the hidden puddle pit that took out the control arm bushings.  I'd say it's about even.

Although, when they invented the phrase "beat it like a rented mule" they were thinking of Thom's driving.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on August 31, 2017, 12:26:48 AM
good luck on the rebuild dude, by the way what are those mirrors off of.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on August 31, 2017, 09:11:27 AM
good luck on the rebuild dude, by the way what are those mirrors off of.

Vangremlin posted about these mirrors in another thread:  http://forums.amceaglesden.com/index.php?topic=46151.0

I got them on Amazon:  http://a.co/abGK8Jr

Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on September 01, 2017, 02:22:50 AM
as soon as I get the chance I'm going to see if the mirrors from a late 80's grand marquis will work on an Eagle or not.  One of the yards here have several of them but they have a serious weed and sunflower not to mention hornets and snakes. So until I can actually get close enough to the cars to get the mirrors off one I ain't the chance of getting bit or stung.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on September 28, 2017, 12:36:08 AM
I'm still alive, though Hurricane Irma came way too close for comfort.  We are on the East coast and the forecast track was heading right over my house at one point.  We boarded up the house and ran for the hills on Thursday, went to Atlanta with the kids.  Didn't really feel the need to ride it out in Florida since we had a place to go.  In the end we got very lucky and the path went to the West coast, so there was only minor damage to the house.  Yard debris was the worst, everybody still is waiting for the city to collect all the branches and stuff.  We've got a car-sized pile on every curb int he neighborhood.  But like I said we got really lucky, there were others who are still suffering.

Anyway, that slowed down the Eagle project for a couple weeks.  But I got back at it this past weekend and finished taking out the front suspension.  No more springs (thanks Rick for that compression tool!), upper control arms, sway bar, or steering linkages.  I got cheeky and rigged up a couple 2x4's across the top of the engine and bolted down through the beams into one of the head bolts.  With this holding the engine up, I was able to unbolt the cross member and take it out too.  I guarantee that thing hasn't been out of the car since Kenosha in 1987!  The bolts were a little tough to crack , but in the end they came out without snapping or messing up the permanent frame nuts.

I'm now free to do the oil pan (again!).  I started working on the control arm bushings with a ball joint press but it's tough to get the right adaptors.  The press is a loaner from Autozone, and it only has abut a 9 inch span - too small for the job really.  I messed up one of the upper bushings, so I stopped.  I'll take the arms to a real shop with a big press and have them do the bushings, and hopefully this will speed things up too.  There is still plenty of re-assembly to do, even if I hire out the control arm rebuilds.

About the only thing that won't be new are the lower ball joints.  The only ones I can find are about $80 each from Rare Parts.  Moog and AC Delco versions are not in stock anywhere, I think they have been discontinued.  My old ball joints were fine, so I'll leave them alone until they show signs of wear.  We will see if that was the right choice after my next trail ride, I suppose.

I'll try to get some pictures soon, but right now I'm on the road for work.  Not much time left before the second leg of the journey, gotta keep moving on this stuff!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on September 28, 2017, 08:56:57 AM
Thanks for the update!  Glad to hear you escaped the hurricane with minimal damage. 

You're going to have a brand new Eagle by the time you're done!!

Have you checked with some of the AMC suppliers on those lower ball joints?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on September 28, 2017, 02:06:33 PM
Yeah, there isn't much I haven't touched on the Eagle. Probably not making a great financial decision, but at least it's completely sensible to drive it cross country off road.  Oh...wait.  Well, at least it's fun!

I just checked the normal spots like RockAuto and the big parts stores for the ball joints.  Rare Parts has them but they are spendy.  I will just stick with the old ones until they give me trouble, and THEN pay too much.

If I find the $30 Moog ones still in stock somewhere I may change my mind though.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on September 30, 2017, 01:41:30 AM
i just checked on Autozone and they show a lower ball joint under their duralast line to be available. I also checked Advance auto and one of the stores here in Colorado has a Moog one in stock.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 02, 2017, 03:25:27 PM
Finally had a chance to upload some recent pictures.  I took out the front springs, upper control arms, differential, starter - but no pics of that stuff of course.

I am going after the oil pan (again) and want to take out the cross member and replace the motor mounts too.  There is currently a 7/16 rod and a couple 2x4's holding up my engine.  Crazy, but the factory service manual actually describes this procedure.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vyTWXgMxkhEbty8lxV9lZCuUS2lSg5v7itM5OlghEoWFgqqoIu93ASmjkcyY3wj4HUzhWYPlm1c-iqW-v0qOK4YUV4O7ckWkFG8J9wVIOWMLQROrRj_4TLQT1Mw9Z7XWAzcG_wgSVA=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lHE7ZlMc6R4uP9ml0JoGgS9ublF1UYNkXptq19YxPh1HCWzcZoRzQQqY5I_abDFpKF7epSB20DJwD-Kn4UQfsen4Alh85alQJ5-sjUXpVI_fHALT_0WN3pMaf7E0amN8Cu2DD_n5sg=w603-h804-no)

With the engine supported from above, I could take out the cross member.  Some dude in Kenosha put this thing in 30 years ago, guaranteed!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gM7qB4gvXt45Sl4iH3fmYgC5TexQsyWfRyO5vnLWNSlPbbJJIT8DGuVggKJCykV5Bfxk2z56Acf0dNX66bmTcIzlOuPd-9f8r1apCAw4hPyncMAiiP3IP0xpdEQCqJ3MBSBS7sFNSA=w1072-h804-no)

Motor mounts are worn, you can see cracks from the side view.  Luckily they are shared with some Jeeps so they are available and pretty cheap.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g1SH3xXF2t0mWNdOMjdi81gWiTMx92QKlXeikdpq1KAynwh80Ov_Oc5UWMUN0ntpOWboHflc_7QXoOnKWfGjP_R08Ve9uoSTqnlWQi5Vo4Vg-eptrxKWrH00BWyb8VceV-Q_NjyB-g=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/T3iVHlt6LO1mKb5LoXSe_55SHioT2pCPglMXK3u281z80hsJsxdF5kahCIfh4T0GO17FCk0vD6SNsc69tARC-pZKxTsMlIoGH-CywCeXE8C1zg3qwr6oEpYXMUVKE4vraWblYACDbg=w1072-h804-no)

Finally got the steering linkages and oil pan out.  Pink bike is my backup vehicle.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zmIA_Jz8n0sAhSKRuv9AKvdyXVI_-C1phF2rnBd7FzUqOYeCoK5fHWSYUS41Z4e_n9TMwUl1YIrXipARFOkgwWdG_qkfvsxANDLk_E5IpkKiD70hYg9etBnJKeKlIdjWlrtzYjPIkw=w1072-h804-no)

I just saw the underside of my engine in the spring. Here it is again!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ewDMCWKQBzAXUy29wknL-SXqvooY7P7uF4Zk74g0ZN7dw1Z2nYq42QBceUBxDaVggGxL9cXdpDAXdvTmqpMQblaWHWKnK2hJrI3Ar8FG-DgcZcWmOvcIL0Bz6gilzN5daC5La_vb2g=w1072-h804-no)

The oil pan was leaking at the very front, I think because I put RTV across the whole front the first time.  I've read elsewhere that these fancy modern gaskets work best when they are put in dry, with no RTV.  That's how I'm going with the second attempt.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/f39EL65p6A3RafAIbnCIK6_5UYwoyHVmJNwrkFsVaKno8EfnwHO6iktrp7fKzVayEfyyd8utVhMU5afOiyJxUITPc7jgS9i1WG_hE79Dh1vCQiygHy2kwolUrbb-9QXabyA9AAUnfQ=w1072-h804-no)

So far, so good!  I highly recommend doing the oil pan this way, taking out the front suspension.  This way the engine stays in place, and can be started to check for leaks.  I've done a couple cycles so far with no leaks yet.  The first time I raised the engine a crazy amount until the oil pan cleared the cross member.  It wasn't worth it.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gd-NazTmm0lgSBT44AuZoZxjzskndsBK6HcKb2xglnNd1fvnD8x5yH50rKV2N7wR-v0z87tSsNU_YyjUbgHlkY_OdAbvVd8jTr417YQZyYDdBbf1m5kXn7PHPVj-xV58I2y4jL6zqQ=w1072-h804-no)

I took my control arms to a local shop to get the new bushings pressed in.  I started working on them with a ball joint press, but it was really not the right tool and I managed to mess up one of the new bushings.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1Dy8vi0TInOMdBvPFLEEP3nIKr23_0VY9x_PMCgR3K-ff7gUlOddU2gVy_6zkKDHGIO0GVOyB6ITWrOwJ7bsPMkqM1PMfTAk2XTzZuhFIYhVb7-vxrCPaCANq60XerxP0zZ3dkPYBA=w1072-h804-no)

Old bushings versus new - on the uppers.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_vyCY9-IAAdCmY6q9dliCU-5xWDxLkdGi-y5hy9-owiabs338M2x36z_3i6syuWVKY8S3j8EXR3-lfYiYmbDTdxApxobn75WM0AxD0qJBWa__ou-pTXLCy7DEPbXZAM2TeeQQjJwcg=w1072-h804-no)

I'm at "peak disassembled" on the Eagle right now.  From here on out the parts pile should be getting smaller, not bigger.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on October 02, 2017, 05:24:32 PM
Thanks for the update and the pictures.  Sounds like things are going relatively smooth, I don't detect a sense of "I hate this car, I hate this car, I hate this car" in your writeup lol.

What is 7/16" rod tied into at the bottom end to hold up the engine?  I can't really tell from the pictures.

Love the backup vehicle, although it looks like you have another one in the background of the 9th picture that looks pretty sharp.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 02, 2017, 05:55:29 PM
Hah, I don't hate it yet.  I knew it was going to be a project.  If it was my daily driver, I'd really be upset by now!  I can't say my wife thinks too fondly of the Eagle though...

For the engine support, there are a couple threaded studs coming up through the head, just outside the valve cover.  I assume these are holding the head onto the block.  I used a 7/16" coupling nut and then the threaded shaft up through the 2x4's.  Here is a closer pic, maybe that will help.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/s1K0_o-xJPK1qxc-IC-Qg8ldEzkFoHbxxnxNr2xRvyKi6Wjo0KKSYVEli-cvfxYVoqDRb_y-sAlrq-i5N8zLpCSRApDYVX2XsFQVL-GsF05N3jlcE_PNE2LqATVkWtlp5Udp68E2XQ=w603-h804-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on October 02, 2017, 06:35:04 PM
Thanks for the pic.  I'd seen that setup in the AMC TSM but never looked close enough to see how it mated with the engine.  If it was me crawling under the engine, I'd probably be a little more comfortable with some additional attachments securing the engine.  Not sure what that would look like exactly but I'm not sure I'd trust that I'd do it right the first (and possibly only) time lol. 
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 03, 2017, 09:52:24 AM
Yeah, there is a strong "pucker factor" with the engine just hanging by the one rod.  I've started the engine a few times to make sure there are no leaks on the oil pan.  I figured out quickly that I don't need to rev up the engine - it jumps around too much.

I took a break from suspension work last night and put in an external trans cooler.  On my first trail trip, I was seeing some pretty high temps.  Rick helped me figure out that the trans was heating up and cooking the radiator, so the engine temp was going up.  There were a lot of long uphill sections, and that was really tough.  Of course, the 2.35 gears and big mud tires probably aren't helping.

Cooler, looking nice and shiny.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q_NWRSZGyazGqVZDRXsVUW5eXUzW-Qr_olJEv73gGL10uBaptVdETSfkxSrfoaxSiDCLqq7En94AHY94bpjEk2VZABFbAY5fhGoPSmBtqtOIm0en6m9ASJP4jVtLvxBXa1EU2BJ_IA=w1072-h804-no)

The cooler barely squeezed in, attached to the front of the AC condenser.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lml35KihIV6LCxhfMgzAGrkXtTIWfhOaYoZ9ETG8FhBPyyjT1n8AEG7oMNHTmEIjm5T5M985IJ-0gdy6s68riMW_CoEoAPTdQ4xwwSXT2weDEtMGiN9Dz_M8pZhSAqgzPbu4_08_Tw=w1072-h804-no)

Plumbing is getting a little tight.  I've got the wiring for the winch going through this same area.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cbSWT13O2b6SyXF8pcTrRhKacFpGI7TQbD2Y6EfN_UjDilLPJB8wfR58EmYOHXER9zJjFZLlyPrV8rcvi0LLRE6J6IX9Or0NTpgoqEYicmSPrhJZ3GJIIgYJn7azMZEZbW0qJYw2CQ=w603-h804-no)

The new cooler is plumbed into the original lines at the radiator.  So the stock radiator cooler is still in the system, as a pre-cooler.  Then the external cooler is next, and finally back into the line to the trans.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/x62VwZOPSobnz_rJ0fnsuG4Q3KuZ568sQvnGvGEFwlWSC4DyPm1jn_zuLE-4RKaf_ZjKI_-TZ8LpYKJFjIYyuqdxeYS2WDa1doesKSm3sebaMh-D7g0CcPmEwY46QGcb1IBnbGXrOw=w1072-h804-no)

Seems like there is a bunch of debate about the plumbing options.  Some folks like to bypass the stock radiator cooler, and some would put the external cooler first to avoid cooking the radiator.  I decided to put it into the stock radiator first then go to the external cooler, and the instructions with the kit recommended this too.  I will still get some feedback from the engine coolant temp gauge since the systems are still joined.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mudkicker715 on October 03, 2017, 05:04:02 PM
Just me but if i put a  external cooler in for a slush box, it would first go through the radiator. Its more oem that aways. I mean it would cool maybe and than reheat the other way potentially.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 03, 2017, 05:09:35 PM
Just me but if i put a  external cooler in for a slush box, it would first go through the radiator. Its more oem that aways. I mean it would cool maybe and than reheat the other way potentially.

That's how I did it, but I see that my post was confusing.  I edited for clarity.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on October 03, 2017, 05:15:28 PM
Man that thing is really starting to come together. I have a similar transmission cooler on Eagle Eyes and it definitely made an improvement on keeping the transmission cool. The only thing is I didn't run any lines through the radiator because I don't want to go through the hassle of removing the lines the next time I have to replace my radiator. (I'm on radiator number six or seven right now because my local Autozone seems to have a nasty habit of dropping radiators).
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 13, 2017, 12:48:21 PM
Not much progress, I've been on the road for work.  Still trying to get back on the road for a Nov 2 trip.  The motorcycle guys I am riding with must be nervous I won't make it.  They are both coming down to my place for the weekend and doing an "Eagle intervention".  They offered to work all weekend with me, so between the 3 of us we should get a lot done.  And beer.

I picked up some fittings to put a temperature gauge in the transmission cooler lines.  I'll put this stuff in the "hot" side so I can see the worst case.  The sender came with the gauge but I had to scrounge at Home Depot for the rest.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/B7VSc2Bp9Jm1NOl6oWmkOmkf3rnL6rGQ65xFKCrB3VPfW2EzDOgYDItV_fRbfXNK4D4DJXPgLdFjHg9G6bMl8UOo-Ey-IztAHHXh79rQbFM2guiuzMn9orlVZ-ONYmPTz3QWQhGwqQ=w603-h804-no)

My engine isn't hanging by a 2x4 any more, and good news is that the oil pan still looks dry (fingers crossed).  New motor mounts are going in.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7V3enq5bv54PsTCgula4WNnpiF1EIjbpGkdndYO2_o1rxV42ObXOF--UFgJXAiZFStyMied7Tp8DUrlNPpgW3X-wN_ya_1q29FrvlNuvTaB8EgiQJ3m_2LXI9e6JFj_k7Hb3ZDhGbQ=w1072-h804-no)

I got the cross member back in and the engine secure again.  Now I just need to put back the entire front suspension, no big deal.  This is still my vote for the best way to do the oil pan.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g3v25N3X75zgiwi-vCmYlbwnmziyPbT33x5AzTqcm6Sk7XcS3dkaojYoAHWI-8ur5KXfW3sYhlt-rxkuI-ADQNBnPOeZbPHWlNGSs-JkpXvs0Sg-v9g_i35w0z6NgC6q281GzDvhug=w1072-h804-no)

I took the driver's seat out, it needs some help.  A local upholstery shop gave me a quote for $325 with labor only, that's not going to work for my budget.  I'm going to try patching it up on the cheap.  And man it needs a good cleaning!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pJj6BJlKgYi_6mAsliR6yxQO1bMxVrwElE7rjUU5TYWfQoeuA0V8pthjCBj8-KcYM6yQlPS32cKzxPrOWkZskjmrHk0kJ7xmetK1_LCXoq8BTyoe-E87TpaH5RFvgVSsZ2iy407gIA=w603-h804-no)

Speaking of cleaning, with the seat out I found 30 years of crud.  Oh, and another $67 cents in spare change - sweet!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/atnYA_NJESjXs2mKwkmemIhlIPVgJQne64w8TimV0V9j9nTeU6QOpCSvkhMeWbao_BMDmcKarIhnzkn70kaCgOmMaDLIYTU2QfZlQa_pDCYChJvK5pShlm7NgWmXx_EwGsMTIwMByQ=w1072-h804-no)

Should be a very busy weekend.  I can't wait!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on October 13, 2017, 01:40:13 PM
i have the same exact seats in my Eagle. One bit of advice I can give you is to put some tint on your windows because if your Eagle sits in the sun with direct sunlight hitting those buttons for too long you may end up with a brand on your leg because them things get scorching hot and I have been burned through my jeans before on a hot day.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: trooper5707 on October 13, 2017, 09:36:16 PM
Just an amazing thread! Certainly can't wait to see more! Great work.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on October 30, 2017, 06:08:39 PM
Last couple weeks have been a whirlwind, with lots of work travel and many late shop nights when I am home.  My motorcycle buddies came down and we spent a weekend in the shop.  We got the front suspension back in, but very few pictures since we were just focused on the work.  I'm glad I had another set of hands, since the upper control arms were a 2 person job (at least).  At this point the entire front end has been done, including all control arm bushings, strut rod bushings, sway bar links, camber bolts, all 4 ball joints, brakes, and on and on.  I even upgraded the shocks (again) to KYB Gas-A-Just versions.

Since then I've been working on other odds and ends.  The next segment of the cross country trail is scheduled for Nov 9th, and I am meeting the guys in Mississippi where we left off last time.  There is a lot still to do, but nothing that will keep me off the trail.

Here are some pics.

I put the guys to work.  At the end of the day they both threw their clothes away.  Guess you can't get the Eagle out, no matter how much you wash.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1HzM1eEQauDKevaT42CSr-TtEyJFQlyusOSSJ5zarUIuuN0QhwR2mv8Ljk8C37xytBB7JIOUPHopB9eD1bSw1_Ct0kauiJmOkUcqB62f8eRXEq_eEXJQGmLUXcKmr_hcKW3AH2cwFQ=w1072-h804-no)

New shocks.  The dirty one only has 2200 miles on it.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XUTLe8g9X_9zOjiyFVaJ4H6JVaMKP4yHKWjpAyNLT7I8bBQyYjLOWu7-N9NXN81_0ZMbbcPNuP9GOPSCH9oqcJl-a7pWq_2u1qOBO2XA_VajF5sGvJOckXbYH_L-F-YQ0UJVkUQE6A=w1072-h804-no)

Eagle has been running rich.  My buddy Dan was in charge of electrical stuff and he installed an AFR gauge onto the stock O2 sensor, which is a narrow band type.  I took the carb apart to see what jets are in there.  Looks like they are both 48's.  I've ordered a bunch of new smaller jets and a few gaskets, hoping to lower the fuel delivery as I go across country.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwyXZU7_UQ-IJ1n2pgskW9CUVrE1TD0SJrhnrfFezMEkAU1jpwdEseiaOC2WWva2vjofY0CIb6FYrxvrj8kexDKpbEt2N9QVOFBfIElyQtQ5nja8ozIx9WwP6Tnz5DSWeKgbro6EKg=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/v8LRitMEumGcaljgVriHd5vdf0is6RHoWZUP--5Bx7bZhuNmEXOL8cS8_D42uj6qPZZDBtvX1DLlb1rNHq6dJVHAICMcuXI2uHozsyJM0ZBX-AyJBC1OWS3-cgVVtEnEeZKK79gCdA=w453-h804-no)

This was the driver's seat, and I took it out to work on stabilizing the upholstery.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SmD47qI6w5kvsaOH9sXmD_AqpEmCHXXkujVbUzMKn0HkB4ZZduI45qrCCODKgPVnjnG7Pn0Uf8jFuRR2Ry9cM5z4T3FJQlP-P0ddRzYhG5fHiuuK_YF37OMdhMxMuxWFlPcujxG7cQ=w603-h804-no)

I took the headrests off both seats and I had my mom (thanks mom!) harvest the fabric from the headrests - to use for patches.  She was able to find some dark red vinyl and rebuilt the headrests from that.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8kpqtEcnmGJGPnNJ_Ow7uBrsMr0ExpYwifKbX4TYKR84S6DyzQFeMxQU-veh33uh6Jw5-geOVoohYceOPKc2KhpoEGMZCciIolhlfmwgXMmhhk_Wnx7brDvXR_IWJ3thAGKGdh9lAg=w1072-h804-no)

I put in some new foam, and used the headrest material to make some patches on the seat.  Not 100% great but much better than they were.  Good enough to sit on without tearing up, anyway.  I also got some vinyl filler compound and patched up the tears in the vinyl.  Finally, hit the vinyl patches with some Duplicolor fabric  paint and some shoe polish to get a close color match.  Good enough. Last step will be cleaning the seats, possibly with a little rental carpet cleaner.  I think they will look lots better than before.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pJzgkQRtubjBGIcQi96PbX2lC6oVqczqvizduadFyv88LCB7KU7-OY1_ZxOqIuCJgIwItEUHJGP9AZpZmnrlkpyNHUrGFQuSrs86Q5LxidSD-aho-ERAPIUzBhdD_hMEV7i973AYLA=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WF5Em45y2vvwVCl3Ltse9AiypHI54zon8c62CEsK7tZMXw-eYSoUUVjMigsHexOanCDDreFshxWqLda9qfqyWhb6gMZE4xkHaQo2m5MxIJvceny1mrALQaTgfMltaGdFZQL_b0dcHw=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QRZVRfYORou8DsvWS1pKxwj8oUvkyrwhGZj7SIemNznelFpPx1bZjIVLlqbsQzbhiXDsJRhPyL7DyA8czLFZS3D-iDDsGA2asapgaTJfPmbufpBWzG3arblLpygKxsDi2cNwOdj2iw=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/v20EdUrcAnQJrRgioUrlmLwe5aqMtNXjui_dgrmNjDbM7aC7oKCZLDcM5G6P09WjfdlRFletLMQPC6ODcQCbEnG9IPA1CfxHhjxXXZzkWZhrE2-TVOqg1jcjY75UlNAqLN1WNVIrSw=w1072-h804-no)

Some other stuff to do before the trip, but I'm moving pretty fast to get ready!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on October 31, 2017, 12:32:26 AM
dude I am seriously impressed with how fast you are getting things done on your Eagle. If I ever get the chance to redo the seats in my Eagle I may just have to send you the fabric that's on them now because I have the same seats you do.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on November 01, 2017, 04:13:05 PM
dude I am seriously impressed with how fast you are getting things done on your Eagle

Thanks!  It seems really slow to me, but I am fighting a deadline again.  I only get time after the kids go to sleep at night, and maybe a half day on the weekends so it's tough to keep it all moving.  Still having fun though!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on November 01, 2017, 09:22:47 PM
Thanks!  It seems really slow to me, but I am fighting a deadline again.  I only get time after the kids go to sleep at night, and maybe a half day on the weekends so it's tough to keep it all moving.  Still having fun though!
hey at least you have a garage to work in. I'm stuck stuck working out in the elements which means I can  only work on my Eagle when it's fairly calm outside and not to wet either.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on November 06, 2017, 03:11:43 PM
I'm supposed to hit the road again this Wednesday, and hook up with my buddies in Mississippi on Thursday.  The past couple weeks have been a blur, but I've been getting lots of little odds and ends completed.  Didn't stop to take very many pictures though.

It was finally time to put on my front flares.  Some trimming and stretching was required because of my big mud tires, but I think this will work.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ffsdllhp-sDR6K6EE8jA2NgpIpd2LJ8hIKz_8sVFFTgizCUrMIu-v7Gq644Z70uJQDBxCUusJhmjIcQu3coOrVmgqgFmyF2Lku0QPw-ozIjMEGK9RUPfQNy5RYpEi0CVJ02a2FfD3Q=s804-no)

Got all my emblems put back on for the first time since my paint job.  Should make it easier for strangers to figure out what it is.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/x5ccL7EgneyjoM20S0okl9yFkfasnlFboIXuPVGPHWf_m3QDST7VBIDKD8L92QFvxTytf5OIECILlvsP2oQAd9LER39pkCWp6J6M2YT4vHaT8u9ag4N0ImjjwL4YjnVl9kWooT1k_w=w1072-h804-no)

And then things got really crazy.  I've always wanted to add some striping to the Eagle, in the style of some of the AMC/Jeep factory racers from the late 70's.  Think Gremlin X, AMC Rebel "The Machine", or Jeep CJ "SuperJeep".  I decided that it needed to be a red/white/blue theme.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9YOkogOe29TQuHay5eg6is7G7m6VzKu9xd5c1MEB7HIGhMZ-JqsthyZt14uSnQYjr3F2G_0J8Epm2KvKjyy6emK8geYHZiOpoaw3AeOy-sjdjBK_bxYU47ruWo8IDOC4b6jFGvZeWw=w603-h804-no)

Bear with me here, lots of pictures.  But I haven't been able to stop grinning, this turned out better than I had hoped!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZNIVEx6lCCfMROdca7eoFsTFJsS1trv-ktleHfl8-A3FayT3M518u1g4bZYVwTK7RdLUyN5FgJkYF1xJU8gwO7wrGTBIGO4UkbEECqC1vEOfj5dBhqShesm5ACYwWVyjik93L1V-AA=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TpX9eSGImqyJUEU3PeO-KI39XINal1Vqx1GHOS2em0lPr0bM9lkmtbnCKIlOmUpDmA9NlEuAEa3zlcKFZDgD4fh9EPzM3sXPQa5jQzOxe4C5W9-vTa_F1oHcxhNNMj3qc90DLFL6JQ=w603-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DXI6nJcbBZ5EePfr1wY_iQ6slLuXsoY4mxz4X3tUGXD3ySodXXU_AgTuLWZv_0m4DX-iIa437tgWPBrXmTwrztiGxhkCpnclATNvKpUrW7jAECFTLHnLjeUeaZx_kxEgXwL6sBfjMQ=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ve46B7G48pYp09fxYLq8fTTogjxXzR9E5G8uimc1c_zSyqpT14tEY-OqZVylysi7RmRZ2R27IZkuciy3XXNitCypbDZWFLcIjAadWFOPRChnA-UpBXg-VWALIY-APSKsA6-sw1tYIA=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/JN0joE2B-voDlIFJZFonOkB22IX1R3XIa9Mr7hLjEwNO7sON9NHRw-tahEqdUPzclU46611f4zZiNHzk3wVQVXaS7a6voVGh83a0RkCXoBt2YfJSgBQcSYnYTOGYDRU4j1s9201rFA=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vS2GuxsZYbObKhhi10Ufctd6TEJuIKNW9E5gZqzaKDIKYfJ8u9yWlX-4iTLA4hr6UtcaFUR3O5z96OdYdmg2I_zY0Y_G33bQ5gyp4Cl7Pi-prgOSRge5cygE06Pt7cdSraG5epC8Dg=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/v5sGvQPOzm2cDEg4yow84jUYXHJctBfU5MQCYUdOIEKMT3EURvrZyVz7xMy-d6UF5Txe_OEBHhAvc5H79jvqX6KkpYTnZaOYSTuR4APcVp3YCJuK-ioMOMrDGCI6mGEa0HZkKO23lw=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/THQ_8Wrv9DgeN_PCz5SvniAdWG32qmr64Xj128S0SOnBeCDKI_dUePggCoI7LXsJef22jS3bjdNdbW6xSKuCIEN7ESdrZW8P3dR7YeETvdHzAtU5E3_cX6pJ9ROeBj6sYZzAzopVDA=w1072-h804-no)

I picked up some "Trail Rated" emblems from a modern Jeep, just to add some more "What the heck?"
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/NPr3H-X-mxTjwGl1XbhPwsrkSiE_bkTpwOjXuqqoU8_uzc3YKDvjZ_KPgy_KwYbYkcQ7D0kKk2GZ3eH2pAC2XR7UBeA0DaRc0hB0Ezap9plIaw8iIMuF1X28To7n1jwofywxZhEQ5w=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mTkMdJRqBcuN3lL0YWGQ8vXPpEk3QXLFo9tTvBXdahLS22mjud8J2iXPoh_0J6KazYQBB4SVMV5yrnIfJij0VUio5kugT2nfNvHMGcJvrP_e3cNNvG1WKw9k0j3aFCJHwZeXhIM83Q=w1072-h804-no)

Here are the final shots.  I would feel good about my chances for Eagle of the Month, especially compared to where I started!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OgfkWEZRXMhvI6zHMPiTmzp88tRNK9uZpt9ufe5g-Ie6jQpq3FtrLUSUC3FYnVP8ssYZhKvAZtB5dtQK_nNZW0T6MjnM1cuhsyd5C23DuNm-4WmDtC7xv7Q0uzi1vrTsNSBXHoAw0A=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tYfSu-jCzbPW5iCJfGkp_onnP57hqD65_pYoA6ooyyAVV-BpQ6MDEGaf30KXlqhW37d8kY4OSB_cy3nE3o3IqwdJ8tKs1SIKT6h0-2W4evDJNdB9te177F-TnfV17oBNIBDZW9r6ug=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/69o7Lb0ephrSG_W-dUDdN6-9719zFfp9ZWiIzYmidQQXfUM3xFHHDVdGUkOd1gQuHuzjP_r8yq0KqvneBF3PjKKMDCs842IH5Qp-kWm8HT-59HCV1Noc7Seflv5Iv07fXuLWYeQH-Q=w1072-h804-no)

Fingers crossed, I should be in Oklahoma by this time next week.   :hello2:
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on November 06, 2017, 03:40:58 PM
Looks pretty awesome!  Great job, way to make it your own!!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eagleman on November 06, 2017, 04:15:53 PM
Think with the white wheels with black center caps you pulled off the paint work. Looks way cool!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: mo.eagles on November 06, 2017, 06:21:36 PM
OUTSTANDING!! :amc:
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on November 07, 2017, 12:59:39 AM
i couldn't find a drooling emoji so these will have to do. :notworthy: :notworthy: those stripes look awesome dude.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on November 07, 2017, 08:04:40 AM
Wow, when you texted me those pics, I didn't realize you did it yourself with spray paint. I think it looks fantastic.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on November 07, 2017, 09:34:51 AM
Thanks everybody!  I like how it turned out.  There was never anything subtle about this car, might as well go for it.  Normally I wouldn't use spray paint on a car, but the white paint job was only $500 anyway.  None of it is perfect, but I think it looks a million times better than when I first got it.

This was the first time I saw it in person.  Never buy a car online, hah!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I8OhjEOavWDp_Y6FC8_0_P1NRy8oLNOrsL7seSXgsjKZR5LIsBIFmomWy3kvx2Pt3sfeJ0PyVoU7OnqT_t84GtvTYgHd76zolCnwI1cO6E6QfiDDGR8M_CEUd-2kEPopiiR253I6=w1072-h804-no)

I think this was the low point...
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g9PBeQC_LiIKScQVrT4fq1VzOybQWpH82xKsoJbhIjbSJhmZlq8Tsl6LmHNkAqbnK-oxEFQOvPVQKTvioP-E-Obkq4zH6OQh4SbuSSBsk_Mj36e8xsj0RChiRtqJFiqwK3KTIY1LLQ=w1072-h804-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Prafeston on November 09, 2017, 04:45:35 PM
Love the paint job. Well done!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: trooper5707 on November 09, 2017, 07:24:15 PM
Just awesome work!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on November 09, 2017, 11:06:09 PM
Thanks again for all the compliments!  I got to Mississippi today, lots of fuel stops but otherwise easy. My rear axle bearings are growling pretty loudly, but I have the parts with me and there is a local shop that can get me in first thing in the morning. My motorcycle buddies are going to be waiting so I hope they work quickly and there are no surprises.

If all goes well I will be on the trails until Monday.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on November 10, 2017, 07:41:14 AM
Good luck!  Looking forward to seeing pictures of this adventure!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on November 21, 2017, 03:54:32 PM
Well, I'm back from my big trip.  The Eagle did pretty well, but of course I did manage to get it broken once or twice.  On the way up from Florida, my rear axle bearings started growling pretty badly.  I had the parts with me and found a shop in Mississippi willing to tackle the job.

After scratching their heads a little, the shop owner jumped in and figured it out.  He claimed this was just like old Jeeps he had seen.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yESs-73BW-qvA-2376sjM-PIs0ojFOchO0hgVYmewkBSP4VzTSFuXl7LUrY3P-dCm3CudLhsflkcMKlKiD0irZBUQgQn9emkrnEwmg-NTE9o5_PQpLX-3mI4WiJFakrbDszyaVud2A=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LCY0EFbWmh-95cJOGa88uBRLOeX0k0MJ1wPuwKMmnBNyWR1vWBuMfGkg6HnEflMNRwPToe6zOX24caKfQmv8fuzxUZkqTrlczToCB8eIRBKWMCYG_RH4AtmYtyVMkmGl6jGCo_kIow=w1072-h804-no)

He had all the "special tools" that his young employees didn't know how to use.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9kCJeSxlvb1u4Fm71hEMXMWufg2R5QZPqTRNSEc5qdMzEHOX_b6lUM4k2kexz3YnVwOgtW80Cx38hfI9VCSz1tabsou5uBZnulEPpTBU7wisvgMZqfi5SFVl6GUJAd-EuQ7xCJMN2w=w1072-h804-no)

They got my bearings replaced but in the process bent the right hub.  I don't blame them, I was right there and it was seized up badly.  They had to beat it like a rented mule to get it out.  They put it on a press and got it flat - but not perfectly in line with the axle.  The rear wheel wobbles about 3/4 of an inch side to side at the tread, which is probably only 1/16" of deflection at the hub.  I was able to run the rest of the trip with it, but it will need to be fixed eventually.

I met up with my motorcycle buddies and we loaded up the Eagle with gear.  It was never this clean again.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/s8JqkQQog1QCy9JQK6Cs7kdOsI64LHlPhRlECS82Sm2o6Vbd1nDH6oPs5-GdhtPa5KuX9A1afeipwjL_gJc-0-X1_eRW79kyZ0GID1LRairAvpWLQmVMrxlO8lpDJNwHudrZVLeVMw=w1072-h804-no)

I managed to find some good mud.  The Eagle does fantastic where traction is needed, as long as I can stay away from the big bumps.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ju-V4sn4gGz81Gf8g3y1Cst08qu_Rr7E4jolBmS7SCYv_CGUnjAYKK_Zptbvxaxciv8WnXmAQ23EQcgpTpr_VwTlRAusoCothRyBX0yO6WEc940WpzKSHRYJKrbdQeyjOyUKFKdYrg=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jwGu1vdi34NaR7PpuKaXhN8SgmddqZ2E9N-Yq2riM0QZVOUwdqiLvZEIj2YAXrqyKI4GD3WJnvwE7ZZ0JtoyOF9313m7wIjFmjIM6njJ50xvaGRqkPelF8hxQiUjUwkMetT1aPvATg=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iYcEBcrR4aft0ciYTrlTHDiws1ho2fqFKyBTkEcRd5OjNsXcAKwv3RvE8BvB-UAiUJG94hVw-9biEhJpNf6A0-WIIwAyujJwTtdwMcu1PjtVGXt8ruQZxUMOsjyKjqY71tHVO-m1wQ=w1072-h804-no)

We put up the flag on Veteran's day, nothing subtle about this ride!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nx3ORuFM4WffBckvnmQC-mDgmUkRZcMFzgsELmrB7is8F0vW94lwaL9_2mhMtp1ucp2EWPHu5OccYeadxb-CzF-s7KhVAjdVFGgLDN5pMcZIoHVTPDq0-RlEORjUSp5KhS1pboG0Xw=w1072-h804-no)

Got some great shots of the Eagle.  The days were very short so one day we ran past sundown and ended up seeing an amazing sunset.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TqBeBdmXGBcxvPNgKKh0XH7nlw3q7sWFnwt1hTaK7F0zmt6EMJCHIqYSvikq5Repfk2KCgiIPysH49Z_0mM25rArbRtiCT_uK41DeP48iWpfa6y8zaKEIrGeIvgmqsGopixi0OEdBw=w1072-h804-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/znFySHqpYXgW-ULCyQmQ1yYKblS83i4twjyhR4k7u39WwlfY5jxy4JZ5TEOY35IzEglc4qgxSnfFUN4ra5DbyQrAFZWkY-R84mp73qpSwqLWUER9C7KDIwG2t6hzpAoB0CFcVqZIRQ=w1072-h804-no)

The Trans America Trail (TAT) is getting better known.  We stopped in Arkansas to talk with Percy Kale who runs a "welcome center" for TAT riders.  HE said we were the 276th group to pass this year, and we'd probably be the last for the season.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LYUGxaU8NhgYoV615Csk2wEpKJ8TUqnLevzdYz7vh4j8gKerRB9M_-y2SkHbS--TZexugJ5puKgVjHkt1YUwtD1OnyL_uw7Hc-dpw4exPpG2TzVoC48vkqEHCqPdVqdqqB6eY7pOhQ=w1072-h804-no)

On the 3rd day, the Eagle kept gradually losing power.  Eventually, it wouldn't even run.  There was a LOT of very fine dust in Arkansas, and I was letting the bikes go first most of the time. The air filter plugged up so badly it wouldn't even move 5 feet.  Changed the plugs (very fouled), which was a little better but I didn't figure it out until I took off the air filter and like magic it started up again.  It could have been something much worse so in the end I'm OK with that.

We had a fun trip, but too short.  The 3rd leg will be sometime May/June of 2018.  We almost made it to Oklahoma, just 12 miles from the border.  That's where we'll pick up next time.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9sTaX9qpFg71Yf9G-8iFfsvvBoDWumjSk5tCxqybcEKZFHQDg7gChszIv7YV_YEWEjzGhwhsiQVsnxL5XiQ0WJo7Jt8I6o6TtwLKuP2CKM2JrIeR15_A62-Hrwxld-5XPK1mwxo9ew=w1072-h804-no)

We towed the bikes back to Nashville with the Eagle.  Not the best idea I ever had, but we made it.  Stayed in 2nd gear most of the way, 60 mph at about 2600rpm.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UCJeBlIG5PXPm5yI9WfG5cfRfFaU0JDZpmgZzD2HGSMHUiMpIxXSPldgYqowC8xg7RdwU7wu5gHoRa-_K8sci9Wz9rCIr9op_Wfj-BsWJ0IIcgVw0-Ck4a0KnSUpKc0OcF0GOlHb5A=w1072-h804-no)

Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: maddog on November 22, 2017, 07:29:06 AM
Sorry to hear about the hub getting bent dude, but I'm glad to hear that the rest of your trip went well.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: trooper5707 on November 30, 2017, 11:01:26 PM
I live in Nashville! Could have bought you a beer! Great story!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on November 30, 2017, 11:15:29 PM
Not sure I could have handled a beer by the time we got to Nashville.  We were on the road for about 10 hours and finally pulled into my buddies neighborhood at about 2am.  We were running on fumes and ran out of gas 1/4 mile from his house!!  Argh!  I finally had to use the fuel in my 5 gallon can, right in the middle of the road.  If it hadn't been so late and pitiful it would have been funny!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: DAVE on January 31, 2018, 11:03:13 AM
if your still looking for a 3.07:1 front differential check the 80' eagles they were all 3.08/07:1
ratios
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 23, 2018, 09:23:16 AM
if your still looking for a 3.07:1 front differential check the 80' eagles they were all 3.08/07:1
ratios

Good tip!  Thanks for the info.  I've been casually looking online, and found a couple front diffs in wrecking yards across the country, but nothing close to me.  And nothing cheap.  Replacing the axles is probably a pipe dream at this point.  I'd get more use out of a low-range transfer case I think.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 23, 2018, 09:29:20 AM
I'm still around, but I'm having withdrawal from my Eagle!  It's sitting up near Nashville, parked for the winter.  The next leg of our cross-county off road adventure is scheduled for late May.  It's been a crazy winter, and we've decided to move out of Florida and back to Atlanta.  We've got a moving truck scheduled for March 1, which is coming up fast!

After we get back to Atlanta, I'm planning to go get the Eagle and bring it home for some maintenance before Trip #3 on the Trans-America Trail.  It was driven hard and put up wet last time.  I need to get her ready for going across muddy Oklahoma and into Colorado on the next journey.

I really miss working on the car, and driving it even more.  Can't wait to get my hands back on it again!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: SparkyB on February 23, 2018, 06:17:31 PM
I’ll be on the lookout for ya when you come thru Colorado. Looking thru this thread has just motivated me to go down into the garage and wrench on the Eagle. Thanks
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 24, 2018, 12:38:41 AM
I’ll be on the lookout for ya when you come thru Colorado. Looking thru this thread has just motivated me to go down into the garage and wrench on the Eagle. Thanks

Glad I could help, hah!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on February 24, 2018, 05:46:05 PM
Gee, I wonder where your Eagle is hiding?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on February 24, 2018, 06:02:39 PM
Gee, I wonder where your Eagle is hiding?

Looks like it's behind that tree!  Hah, I didn't want to "out" you as my Tennessee Eagle storage facility, but I really do appreciate the help.  Thanks Rick!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on February 25, 2018, 10:43:08 AM
I’ll be on the lookout for ya when you come thru Colorado. Looking thru this thread has just motivated me to go down into the garage and wrench on the Eagle. Thanks

Hey SparkyB, where are you at in Colorado?  I'm near Denver.  When amarshall arrives, we could have a good old Eagle reunion, everybody can meet up at the Rambler Ranch!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: SparkyB on February 25, 2018, 09:05:31 PM
I’ll be on the lookout for ya when you come thru Colorado. Looking thru this thread has just motivated me to go down into the garage and wrench on the Eagle. Thanks

Hey SparkyB, where are you at in Colorado?  I'm near Denver.  When amarshall arrives, we could have a good old Eagle reunion, everybody can meet up at the Rambler Ranch!

I’m down in Pagosa Springs
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on March 03, 2018, 01:45:26 PM

I’m down in Pagosa Springs

Not exactly down the street from me lol but good to know there is another active member from Colorado!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 17, 2018, 09:45:52 PM
I'm near Denver.  When amarshall arrives, we could have a good old Eagle reunion, everybody can meet up at the Rambler Ranch!

I had a chance to Google the Rambler Ranch, looks like a very cool place!  I floated the idea of an "Eagle Meetup" to my motorcycle buddies, and they gave it a big thumbs up.  Is there anybody here that could connect me with Terry that owns the place?  I thought I'd give him a call and ask a few questions.

We are planning two trips this year on the Trans America Trail.  First trip in May goes through Oklahoma, New Mexico, and ends up somewhere in Southern Colorado (we hope).  Then we need to park the vehicles until summer, waiting for the high mountain passes to thaw and our vacation days to recover.  We will restart in late July or maybe August, and go through Colorado into Utah.

It's pretty hard to predict when we will reach certain places, so if we arrange a meetup it might be best to kick off the July/August trip in Colorado at the Rambler Ranch.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: rmick on March 18, 2018, 12:33:43 AM
Terry is a member of the forum I think he goes by nashkid
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 18, 2018, 06:17:08 PM
I'm near Denver.  When amarshall arrives, we could have a good old Eagle reunion, everybody can meet up at the Rambler Ranch!

I had a chance to Google the Rambler Ranch, looks like a very cool place!  I floated the idea of an "Eagle Meetup" to my motorcycle buddies, and they gave it a big thumbs up.  Is there anybody here that could connect me with Terry that owns the place?  I thought I'd give him a call and ask a few questions.

We are planning two trips this year on the Trans America Trail.  First trip in May goes through Oklahoma, New Mexico, and ends up somewhere in Southern Colorado (we hope).  Then we need to park the vehicles until summer, waiting for the high mountain passes to thaw and our vacation days to recover.  We will restart in late July or maybe August, and go through Colorado into Utah.

It's pretty hard to predict when we will reach certain places, so if we arrange a meetup it might be best to kick off the July/August trip in Colorado at the Rambler Ranch.

I'll text you his number.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on April 23, 2018, 03:57:14 PM
Just a quick update, no real news.  We moved back to Atlanta in March and I've been been crazy busy since then.  For some reason my wife wants me to unpack boxes rather than play with cars!  Go figure.

I was able to go retrieve my Eagle from storage in Tennessee.  Thanks again, Rick.  I knew the instant i arrived it had been well cared for!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wSz8qkO3cZXe_HoTQgsKfcjcD6V0NmpT4PlwJW32A2aDAVWpeon4xMIAtP0tWScmYanmL2n9b3SsUuPKgHmyIgQ2ukkbA9WQJga5PRo432QgLI7Ln96nOBLMFfXX7ftCWc3-XKHdi1a6Ostdao_GppF3JM9ainUO3YTEchxzNAHU1RNhcd46lr9HxCf4Pq3d8H2ojAE18ZHbrBfNQ9AZI_rjs4JMhyn2nmeisS8gBFc_ruFyNcHLgNNNCsKH_ziD-Lta5BCAmIcEgMSrCI0PmKkvZ2yQnpu7p9ebW4QIZOCRxAiBkB-EqFRxGMuSMIzOGwtt8uEU5v0y8llumu_7C0kE3FmflcVSgZ9WJm-1EA17m1Tm80rod86nif8_zHpnhnH99Gtpq6vDCPt-_IF_VqpHof7TmYqInPKWvLkmiHLRk18soEsiLwiF837NK5aTvtCkN8Lc4lgJUQcgoVWFeABm0QNjlPDoMBbfXJnW-5FLAtX9_w9jJRN2XjfJtqE_2aiSIH7EEd6ELKZCf-ugT_twG9tdDUwEIUXGFcQlz3DhLhq-9-yGqutUC8eq_FEXdTZ6NmVmJnSf1xmUE2EPv1ZsJx0YJLP8On7nWqgj5WfftINm8618njGqUgK_20s_cp7DH2P2a4nV3N5LRbNDi_09EpQ=w1072-h804-no)

Got it back home without much trouble, and it rejoined the fleet.  No garage in Atlanta, so I put everything in the back yard to keep the neighbors from getting too jealous.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hCQkMmKGgOlu_DM3eeguMrpqsNgBzj1iIZLwACRzrXEYLQQFoZj91eDLh1RfOgW31ebW2-B_B8gfk2gmCPa1Pcqfj4RapEtQErfS5K04E4nT_qUwccWqDYimfLHT3LMIZ1saOhS7Ir6qyYMM6xs8HyJk2IM1HmtBziOUBbWdqF5m4DI5IgzVaqOVxVnTzb7jo-KN5hy57-WqWOPDm5UFduUqKGTytPnSVCkan36CyndL9lwglz1LNcgti5qc3dDRCk0ZnHpmJMvGAu_xJGbNUCwLOapWH5T6CnO2SlVt5rbNepDN7j8eIDevwNW4j9dbAWT1xBqraJoiVLYpDMXfNRRp1xtbMB2w-L9amyH6J5T15Q5mlQ4mrCFHTBBa__Q2I1QTki3jg-VwVZbAyBjh7MAg93_CrPsH-FxPptXIrroECWR_nDMd8C6St9t2DVWTCmOcXBoB7WVY1iHAFuR-N373_JwVy8Nu8CGzfLoWlMKFB-vhBGTuthwqiSLFwHi_6q7tovvhP6JPGCbb3JougJ3KeU_LUfzOqbsBQzRcbCZ92VWaKjFQln7asqym_DaRGrU4WOTXG_rLaZwaU6dF6XlyTdnQbqoAbD2sfapv3OgsZXvlDZvEYUaIhI48C4t_4zVbjdVrOxr-1MUmCY9UrWLBJec=w1072-h804-no)

I'm now planning on a bunch of maintenance - and maybe a couple more upgrades.  My trip has been delayed until August, and we are hoping to do two weeks back-to-back.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Still Pat on May 26, 2018, 01:38:36 PM
Haven't been on in a while & just reread this whole thing (couldn't recall where I was when I was here last time). That's amazing!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on May 27, 2018, 12:58:15 AM
Thanks Pat!  I'm still having a blast with it.  My buddies have started to joke that I will be buried in the Eagle, and my wife just shakes her head.  I know that a stock Jeep Cherokee would have been a more sensible trail rig, but every time somebody asks me about the car I know I made the right choice.  Not a smart choice, but the right one for me!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: trucker79005 on June 14, 2018, 04:13:30 PM
If you coming to colorado in august it would be fun to try to meet. I may be about in the route you would take.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 15, 2018, 09:24:28 AM
This is the route we plan to take in August. 

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/NFWE7PGSeGqihEziu5XmWnYy1CuuRoqa5z63VtNezY5j7e-RC9O9ief3J5iip2qjxlFmu6Je1A2IjkGAl_aVe8uRrCB2jW942nXip3WMPCgd85l1wmKuq-M8SjNwx-9Lsk7L_cz-s-WWWPYd9t_n_hkYUIbdWIOjwCCR69GUsRXHSo_Skdsk2ClCPTEuM6Nf0P18YW7Zc6ISU99-Y9m2jp48B_dIXn0czafVdfT7FggR_zGvmVveachCoBDYoPR24OQjzfhdvkc57Bv6POYIaKBJTomRNLgx6s1EmyyeYKx1O-8y7jvNTlmMZdN55Zpqvj6Zn33LPgtHWS80ayeP0XXOEVTzM_4gQ2luXTSa5mDaRijKXOifpvVOXr9u_1LmdFVy-mqA9BaIPFpWZc72Y8s3xMLXOdqJ9LeZU7UHLeetjfoNetWq9gm-qhleaeCziBRk1f-3k0PyZhGWSdFjt77I5WYoyEzhAjCpy1jf0Ob2JVysk9mzMam_44AF-0BVHb60jigo3geFmIqnEIlKsnepuPOzYUR2v4BDC9wpU6ILC93pdXtE4swD6g0OZxTzJrv4FQqh0LlyDP_y9OkeEXBNNHyd1_JlFRQXkYteEq5PD9igO9lDfzHO8hMiL6Uty6RuyHzgNe_6ytdKn9KXVLjTzu0=w1072-h804-no)

We start at the Arkansas/Oklahoma state line and head West.  We have two weeks so we expect to get into Utah, fingers crossed.  I will be riding with two buddies on motorcycles the whole way.  A fourth guy is flying out to meet us for the 2nd week. I am picking him up at the Colorado Springs airport Friday night, August 17.  That's really the only thing that's locked in, so a meet & greet might be best on Saturday morning the 18th - since I know roughly where we will be.

Other than that, Laura if you are along the route let me know where and we'll drop in for a quick "howdy" as we go past.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: trucker79005 on June 15, 2018, 07:15:38 PM
You'll be within 30 miles or so of us when you get about half way across the Oklahoma panhandle. It's always fun to put a face to the forum name. Will have to get a way to contact and try to catch you for the quick howdy. Riding across here in the middle of august should make you ready for an ice water stop!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 16, 2018, 12:20:51 PM
Yes, August will be hot for sure but some of the places we are going in Colorado are only open from late July to September.  We need to go through there when the snow is gone.  At least I have A/C in the Eagle - my buddies on the bikes will be cooking in all their gear.  From what we hear about the trail in Oklahoma, it's either deep sand or deep mud, depending on the rainfall.

Laura, I'll PM you and we can trade info for a possible drive-by.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Ace2600 on March 20, 2019, 10:02:37 AM
I know this thread is dead? but whatever happened to the eagle? Did you get the trip done?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on March 21, 2019, 07:31:54 PM
I'll answer for him. It's sitting in a storage unit in Utah waiting for the next, maybe last, leg of the trip this summer.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 21, 2019, 11:18:37 PM
I've been having problems posting the past couple days, not sure what is going on.  I have a bunch of pictures, but that will have to come later.
 I've been meaning to give a trip report from last August for a while.  We spent 2 weeks on the Trans-America Trail and got from Arkansas to Salt Lake City.  About 2000 miles on dirt, and much of it some pretty hairy stuff through Colorado and Utah.  Oklahoma was muddy - my two buddies on motorcycles couldn't stay up on some of the slick stuff.  At least I wasn't going to fall over in the Eagle!

Before the trip I had another round of mad thrashing.  I changed both my differentials to get to 3.07 gears.  Found an Eagle front axle in 3.07, and had it shipped to me thanks to VanGremlin!!  Then I found a Jeep Cherokee rear axle in a matching ratio, it's a Chrysler 8-1/4" so a little stronger.  The higher gearing really helped with my big mud tires, and brought the engine back into it's power range.  Third was really almost useless before.  Still not fast - it's an Eagle - but much better!

I also swapped the transfer case for a NP242 from a Cherokee, adding a full locked 4Lo.  Driveshaft from a Jeep Grand Cherokee was about the right length, just needed a different style slip joint.  Getting the 4wd shifter in was last minute, so I still need to clean up the boot and carpet.  But that was the only reason I was able to tackle the mountain passes in Colorado.  The Eagle is now like a billy goat, just keeps on crawling up the mountains.  On some of the passes near Silverton CO, there were plenty of very fancy Jeeps and side-by-sides, and we got a lot of funny looks showing up in the Eagle.  We were coming down off Ophir Pass and the road was nothing but 10" boulders for about a mile.  One guy in a very nice Jeep CJ said he hadn't seen an Eagle in years, and I joked that we had been stuck at the top of the pass since the 90's!

-to be continued
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Blip Downshift on March 22, 2019, 08:05:04 AM
I just found this thread and read the entire thing.   I'm not usually a Eagle wagon guy (although I've owned one) but yours has to be among my favorites (Eagles in general not just wagons).  Keep up the good work and I look forward to reading the update from last years journey.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 22, 2019, 08:19:16 AM
I just found this thread and read the entire thing.   I'm not usually a Eagle wagon guy (although I've owned one) but yours has to be among my favorites (Eagles in general not just wagons).  Keep up the good work and I look forward to reading the update from last years journey.

Thanks!  I originally bought the "Eagle Knievel" just for this trip as I knew it would take multiple trips.  I told my wife I'd sell it when I got to Oregon.  But all my buddies swear I'm going to be buried in it, and they just may be right!  I love this thing.

Still having trouble posting, but I'll put bits and pieces from last year's trail.  There are tons of amazing pictures, the scenery was unbelievable.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Taylor on March 22, 2019, 08:44:25 AM
Have you been able to upload the photos and links you were attempting to load the last few days?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 22, 2019, 09:54:20 AM
Have you been able to upload the photos and links you were attempting to load the last few days?

No, not yet.  It seems to be related to the length of the post also.  I wrote this huge update, and I'm having to post it in chunks.  If I try to post too much at once, I get that error message I sent you and then I can't reload the site for a while.  After an hour or so it resets and I can try again.  Maybe I'm tripping some spam protection mechanism?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 22, 2019, 09:55:14 AM
Anyway...to continue:

I've lost track of all the stuff I've done to the "Eagle Knievel" at this point.  I'm getting really good at spark plugs, rejetting the carb, setting the timing for different altitudes.  And also fixing door handles - the first round of repairs didn't last in my front doors, but I've got it figured out now I think.  Had a new catalytic converter put in, a bit of a hack job but it's ok for now.  Had a problem with overheating (again) and finally replaced the fan clutch at a campsite (thanks to EagleFreek for the phone support!) and bingo - that was the problem I've been chasing for two years I think.  Coming down out of Colorado into Green River, Utah one of the rear brake lines failed.  I had moved the old Eagle lines over to the Cherokee axle, and the corrosion and vibration finally won.  Found a local shop to run a new line and we were back on the road!  I told the shop owner I'd tell all my Eagle buddies about his shop, and he said "Please don't. I get an Eagle in here every couple years, that's plenty."  Hah!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 22, 2019, 09:56:02 AM
We stored the Eagle and the two motorcycles in Salt Lake City, and we will finish the Trans-America Trail this year.  We are planning a week in July from SLC to Boise ID, and then a second week in August to get from Boise to the Pacific Ocean.

Every time we turned around there was something new and amazing scenery.  These pics don't do it justice, but here are some random pictures of the 2018 leg.

----

Hauling 2 motorcycles from Nashville to Arkansas - what could go wrong?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TsQHwUuaha84kL0v4uKzNtXwyD0KlU8yKZ9perQJ7hjairKxXJhW3vqpG782Auw0EtEPrubkZIZg-WkS6BflsSrnq117Lb8I-dYkwhDD84f8TcN5avNjYcuL7ilROHpfSbTjf51CIKxKGEFu9f8-pt2w6-kOv89O6yJqzf_denMg0naK7_XsMjgiCDg5Kf6umTOZpjBO6JNmsCUjT7FHci5UdnYpIWn59QLBRvQoYnj26Dx_cgbqxprQ02Y0v558jdUI896ULreohOV_fwI21BmyNRue1BxrwYC8m8wFzB0sp5Dfv6mLbwoNY_2jUmyrNPSwWzAuuMVtnQ2xg3jghI_yo_GtsA8r8_qr4lhbNDilXXkhl_YAtKNiQWlxrK009gUcoEqiQvEsdYhIxkQaf8ic4QoYytkBy1RCGMi8gOprX75vcroCHsFXo2lYgx5oJtrOA3YIj4ehG05VkMA6t8aMkIJ1ZDsrnhOoGryQEsOZKEQKwqgqYS0IykLmSk2Q9XNO95EN5vLjGvpCAhIhqNcXYvu9-OjJwMazuD58EsrjzFf25T93DVCHF7iEsiI7bqYaKw3FikORmF7ZQx71Uwk5GzDauBYYjs9VkdtIQwr0nlxyFBUJWSOZGZKNKnmqFXX1MJ2CbnUXEpG4If0wVQojNYlQJCJRW2b9DK-qs8TLHXAFt2skvA9ONeS_iILqg_9ZlME4K5wguUjLNDI=w1066-h800-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on March 22, 2019, 09:56:45 AM
New shifter for 4wd.  Not pretty, but it works fantastic!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oUsJ7M3BA5cy9naL1GIxw4awSjxP2uJTb4rR2q9RJSmK28dnVlGY7sKD1qAzrwdzfd69IlIWIg_sYkClGJrBbqxqLcjROYMm6mSGFrQzY0YGPzArUJC6enxgZl3d61jF90pwLzHjZgG8aj4ZFllIDw-pLy3UeM71dE5ropdqsf_N_ryE9kRxjC1kdRGMWSScMwnQBPjYF_sW15lGDtsWhhe0Ucz3F8BfZZPs41QYAlmLIsX-c0eIJj5Ey71vLA1AkBcVZPkUMTcrU6yoNCWBQTThAkHykWyqwg94uxoWaIcLOwn2iyHeHYc9t0Awa0c0uVKPxVeSpcviLS9jzwML1TSCfYE9SdG9VK7oRz5bghR_0v1u1TGqWm3YEaV4SGNHAnIkJk649Jz_Nsg-pWIZC9jclU-o5TzptDnYdeJSNBtZymYhgHGHb3bjIfVdsIQjpz6oFas3uToHB99pXCTt8ewJJ11NIEPP5C5AqP87jHIIxOlykDtZRdpIB73r4_8ZB5DLORkgCpvfON8BkWF_qeLaBN47tq2GsAcXIuyRyeMtbXnVgxuLlCMYeYmrEXThGViVcMwoZo16-RaN5PaXDuvIo5VqKPPyYTrCypwXBWrvmL-lmgXnQIq0vhcpNxWsUvalvHPxJW0BfGl-bhZ2NXJHVMtu3g29Tg9ZKcoHhGIEYtci63Y3-KMfXwLDROJIKWj3RaIIfT5l3q_vGBg=w600-h799-no)


Chasing a motorcycle in Oklahoma, very flat and those clouds turned to mud.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IPwuhn0gJtn34fDNZOujreRV5kO90_wEQ9OZubatA0ToZ8GtOLAclKmN-rJYzR0_Xr-OWWjmWl2QyELZg7prBbhdWabNHz0p0XusyiZ0rz3tpzgnMYURjxEXyx5aWJFQgM1nNpKXhpvMlLlaFlUq15ldiHiXaBxr6le1q73IIKLFDHwzXjsp5-oo0Jkrdkzavp5lT0rHIej6oZvqt012ZAY9kRRQvIhGVXOk3ntvyWx8PLdMMDkFczzZBxExDBqG2ql4eFvQI4-mvGiqUEyak4DtJ6HaFuG5nuR_e3hd2HbuW_Opg3w8lo8VxwAz-XIFHGQBFImy8b1C_ijZnn5owRM4t2_a3KOf4pfQYOeT4Bm7z41wnZ-3juXuM0aH6nKXDjhHtXdzCXPv4-dutmmQUtQvlVe91wV6VsktH2tSBiodM3bfVsoWMnJsjr17G-UDWccqpma2M_UcON-pUNRVpTp4iZJQEiEeixJ4nXCbGd4fjBlhDGl-0a3bLL_rwSsFNOgzsyvEyj4CFA4J-v9xw49MbXjYeqvP90stEEZL20ZmhalRdUzyAiyURt05KiYnr2YYGIbHwZFbI6iFpen5wQ80WZmsVSwycAZ_RhLf_hBgV0UvZ-0nM_RS0Pv4gpdE5FNuOmCqS8djFBOBCJU8KQdgUv0cVH59EXAE0AfAdecl7g-_3RY6icpR4fncxBXLyaZ5iczuD9HxZTTwDPI=w1066-h800-no)

This is somewhere in Colorado, rest break.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TC2e_6KWLxKbTlKqBxVgbv3AgeJ8JZF1utyklYGnY-L6ry3eKJMzm8Mw7aFn3B44RKM_UX7MQ_7TT9ZwiY6Xv0Y70Maerhx-dHD5v7ZzPlu9cdMqCtnn5UbJ8p6PE4IS2dTdg7GiDiIJm3BQ_84XXBXQh0IqNvyBEGsaMHknT5KcYOcvt9SfFyADY06rCxKINL2XvF_R1F8hT74_6TZSlotMKY_jBzX0v4dwKFVeif73QER8u3xLSrTYM7icPeOhnLus6yhhB0I92tnZN5kuPaZko8_xUCP2qfIBOOfULJPX0Kv8iBzFEiVJ71PZ1FrnPBV8FsgKaEKlzq4Rj5suN1fgy6JGmgT18J8vYVuO64N8xGZPiSSxlr0P0bxbS21PezyzEl38zVGKHCCIxQtKy3F40uSKkuRdB3u4xYyo71eiAPAGvS_7ifHvSrYzVttjmow7JW3V1dGgeumDYOwKVQZfJE5mba-6yyqz3xH0CjHpoWKgT1UCPX1RBCXJdqMLsrH4MuKJpS-AS5mNjbLYBTibG8TaY6LYXgRhMnKQup40YeXydVklwvI7O4MJ8qoYPJE0569hMIrY7qy8PFIc1Cf3SgfaLJDy8xEysDCcSeRPlx9cemoY6cKRWwIiAHHJWuLhsjhQ0-ieig41jJ8WQb6o3dA4Mh4Z4hH4wgYpQCGYRkpBxhGsXHAs-NRA6JOwAcxLWdaQYL1XZwl_3b8=w1440-h331-no)

Tweaking the timing became a daily chore.  Up to 12,000ft then back down to about 6,000 the next minute.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pYi3EnGy3XA9u0F_kwnenQ5UEt_3Ay2L3BQMm7tob6sL-gywLlT0ZMfI7hOIzI_6QZ8JsyAy-LFOaYSwVYKUZLPPQbb-yhSnkElZhehkkhfJa59ijk4FaVuYwrfuN4jZbiecB3hzlTfQmPjJ09REvezWzqnzZNHpRAMzmTDQVYKRRgVvaleQDC2Wllr1uTYn1ose7sywbEfBkXW-w8iY3_tNIhs8ommbQZbwrY2WDd8xgYnIQHCLuxjYEpsb1t5pgTAZJgAvosO4t0I6FWetvz57gAnMiDOKNxT0IM0p8reeA0o0-eQGdIrUbdFa9yqYCaVGaRqOSNW5T-_OnZdYd7kU8RVDYINZCc4VD46Z2T88cbw_Lm4OmpIoPsa378OYgRbxgf6Ryc_J-Iz9hQOaYk4fjlxXD-7e6alFXSsjdpiHxSpwADKhtv2UKDW-W_Wcl3y0Kma6xmvEahR020aIobRPv_sxVoEIQedZ_-I7Z2t5R1by4b8l2qk0idVm_8_MPgFKDLwS3bjbchT67yPGORO7CDNsJ1l3pUTaIJdKz-2eQacYk7snsbtJR7LmuurSNI73BeeZbiGD8L2Lg1zGLtBK1JowGxjoVCJymYZdzrQsj0QKzyf3xVp_-LBqGL0OpOcGAY5QQ9xmINHIIhlTTOaQ8Td1GMXv-2KlWJtn_r0kjL8lCzv3RhJLKyRG1qBXr8ezcLBbanmrPtTRu4c=w1066-h800-no)

I can't even remember what the problem was here, but my buddies love to take these pictures.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2JEfL0qLn_Df5P-bcm5bOFB4YWw6Mib0dcGp4JVAB4nNwFnQnRY4DR4iYf1Pqng4h1m2-kRxBcPBbS3RYnuJybypBwfKVnJ8KUfyEoIjC6vnV1Ywn6hDPd8ExSAIGsKlhEReqB4UAjt48Z6Wb7axXjGI_Y13ery8AuNrKyswQK_MBzi2qpqHzO_l4cRzVNJBUmpjR5tJMhnYAsYLUapYUgvcaU-LMguZMsIfHaKW5tz2efXGWv535rakfu-D9SYj94Nbo0A_cUns8jigiFh608gVKdTNCdva4zoJ-xiMPTWAao9v2uzTRafw4AnRx5jtwT6NzSAWSnXzmKErUVh0pVAagMM-u4V5glITOuPGLzguFixFAubpGTJCjrt4o4bj2UhyJlV-Jcm8toI5Hp6kwx_AKLeAnwa43VCHnjtlf1lVcaHpVnP6_rwTO5PvykpgBrLSM_bdBErI-KCkOy8Jn6YQA603_uDn9rs0l95HZ7XB9BREWShoE_3wyIepIQOley1hZybQMuma-GAqM6encvk-Ip_FUXMyvUxiihgY7cj48YpqBgIdaUzIohhexn1F3BITocGSlBKTHSeJyuJAPzMMUvsXULIwALTANJmcY4hyqYrHfyn_sA9h0Wx1D2SP7G29M9Ws5EQtufRIA6eOIxz6uPgOszRQQ6_UrfbLsU5SaESHiCGmCgJPna9i8CP0B4PIc64fiTav1lx8oOI=w1066-h800-no)

Holy cow, look at this scenery!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OAgTaa9nfYz4sJNAo9DlHY9q3TB67p6dPcRKZAtEXA1477rZBfP6WLq6vqX81PNjCoIzA8goTjPF7jBBpXMHkk2U96xq1ZyPwfQ5WYcwYsdhOCqn8eJrXyNs69gbGGhsifIImwDhO7NTLmp3bwj6t12LJJGhUtmg3h2GNnFtnCft8FMy2GL_3V-ObFQY1PZkzmZHrG3WklwpEvzc3eUzr6rX2j3_keSoYG7gpgR0QCP-18yqW_wta7kAYY3B5TE7gMy-bGi7SyLrbTVFYu1mlFwfTYF92fKvat3wroMpOCXVHF3JSxzoSHK-v5OBht7NBh5qVEQJFh8Fzg8vUrEJ4C_-78Oo1cv7V4oxMX501j_cjUzMTE_eDIqb9JZ9f7nBgSlutixCrqA_sGS3v89rsPuNLW6LaJGOsto8afS0DDSQim3guxvMZu1nKYBma2IQsVkP3IKK8ZwKCI0pA0pN6A4UL4_Fscd07CQrLPFsmJJtrZbeLmBq1LhYjvLgXFcKUgtyy1JjLYGs4HpYOKN5oct9mLsQLHLkr_r2CDcDm5Ky0ycG2yLuKQY9quzdMgTw6z70yVQKIRpYXyrQW20chxNd2jL4HdooUVHS_uD2sLEA1keJ8NO2ZpzMGRUJD7fkl2tW68Is9lMRlwKbr4NF7QIW-WzfH3w5CmxOYt225j9L7VQVnXLaT258f7jmKyXnScndReNJp7h-6z_ZGoY=w1066-h800-no)

Made it to the top of the world!  I think this is Cinnamon Pass, Colorado.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qXFzuc8tJma25JMZRrYwCHHpFFrbzXA-FMUBmA-UBeAQO5wVRp7s4a1akzwkrO4i7TJp2onODhocyWPS4P8UQafhJxg6pbY6dNY4MxSkMCAF_qW-ZpB699NCxSknkuV2bJCu0vMG5Fml3bEFytJvGSjCV-EKbATzJjjeXjOWeFO1P3QWRhg0hJRZe7qp5gHB4GJCllblupdxgW7d9sXeC5KMYHJyFRT0pFxDSwPAQLJkwGetjx1wTg-Mbij3GqAG3lUp9_clBq8qBs-Hl3jWA_n11YJNY2FwzVxsv4G5BciDT3BLeXKB4i-0x8hEc2M8DaPXc4BHpRiv8VB_A716nCXJBtzlSgIaDQYQ5htvILfoBWeayzR-3XFLV9X0xqt_L2ecSb5HB0JBuOFlRraqcOxFld3V9ajrgBPyDKOt03zaV_HEDz6F-PZtchfhjMl5EhDwe30ClDevyb57li59-n0D4438IUuJ1l3n37SiikLsPrdQnXDTuUUVSyh4dvpn_AkrDyXC-JfUMknHChpKlYBPydP1H8wW73HYXeXfUJ-QDa29aikz2uFDtUUwrBfDJOptBPbsV_VSVnfWQsvFE9kxY2sjqRAKBgYNTyCnTPNDhmgqB8f-1thPJvXfttUEfsAQqaaHAwbt5Xd504gur-NabsO-tvS_73pAw6Jd9uWeMB_yXNEJAiH74Xv6vQlwFSj9izzlBe2rhpvfHog=w1066-h800-no)

The bikes had a hard time staying vertical.  The Eagle never tipped over, thank god.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LwXkvgxc_nZ_Gr-1gKTjwHOZ3MZqphp3mh9PU0xoIY1yQl6n9rse5HgGLvfHgLbxeXbTtytplbh2i_X9s6hEWyXZbJfy2u0WSaKQkJJsa0xjWhVjFkn5f_DqjGoQFajs-KnqWs6QITZQmfxcKSjvadxgOH3AiX_OWMPB0acAellaO8BoOANPMRCe3YB8CbavKHxW0yK50zkwboW9G_Yrh1iCVjwjrB4faEEKM0mDMBkBYbIubc9Q8-6ssda1STbuc-41p5gQWFB8TB3pHyURmoiYcDW1yx62HGFcWM6HyciYxMrpkF9mdO5UhysP2aolc23d9b_i1w4Ylls7lwblmC78A0ycTLS7mnDqcaoCnmmhrEpp2ZhEVAwDZHWw-8D7qv-LA9PFW2zIuheOvF6BLRXmKufwnVldn7W9twH8lVsk235LCqH9o1KzJPygjKe-Rd4q93uhIxjhvc4OJIylYw0b5AQ_wc576-BkgeyBVNlVg4JGLY3pCimp4oW600p7u0ERUkEoh7J_oFb3R1nl_ojb3qoFupG0ek03VbOJIvAY2Nq4BP2WnPq7k-yIbmt_PRL8ZpoRmxvxFq2DrYyvVlgyl2iwZGCpdFk_0rmuiGEH9aKTPcVa1CH6UsEbJ3hI1NQpBMqDmbys1N4STJGfGsLcXox-_HkKCsaj8PNHLTW8PIJGDyldsKdWMCgfpcMiinRk1ENqqKhRAOT592g=w1066-h800-no)

Try doing this for 2000 miles!  We rode these vehicles HARD.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UJPmBVDDJuhPJSmbeoKt1CwIZ56AVrlTkneOlZjuTjnDjkz3zDZzbtMUufXlKHhsJOcdD2g_5PZDmS_PImEy9Qt2NmPn0-tSLcV5mddLnekuhRhJSEwm4ROd1uauMYKh2wLfRHUt-EYhNvWBj09Snf_wNVnux3A13kGoVdxyJ61dd6wyWNPhbHq0cnyKzNsBexhM5plmIVhphHI_-raHaWxUzWJd6AqFgS8Tlb9l1qP9Wj74DLOvketfcEJ6GhRZX_xQuxm_Mc4wK0-irC65viM2NCYiX-uOpEpgqYeoauXaJ2tiLrnAEQ8MbZHhP-PVQ9JPEVLj92wIsr84tNzYhGA5scqEdBTd7hr6Lvhnov1d9-C7VnoWLFWvUw5tFxy5U_kY7z58N1JmdiNbirgQ7QoDiFiFHPyBaITOo684vH8fjwtq0h0EulvnkEeZeM_ZmQxpMRppTnhM71wENpzEwjv32-HlJuB7XMbTPO-IRxsdW_1W3TeWG_6lKljHwyaZT_Mpchnmfe9fnC4utFNAnjDySIruAgeOTS4vBMvcepmphMGKUY1CNb4E00mKidE151JZkEStAoHt7xMty1uM6bILfqMYH3OH6_dZUxTQMhzTkjLRGWXOK-Qv2Yu3JXLklblyoBa2VgLE6vUuzT19wfjqzL2n1etHF_zv0u_EO15EsO1YC5tD93uQnZ1BIvtWWbgROBaWK5N_2UDkNa4=w1066-h800-no)


This is my favorite shot, seems like we are on another planet.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bgW0-SM9gsXzpb01bmwQQY53EQrygkyZoXrnZhuYrM9alfiJfNUOfmq3KP_qR7JNFUIkKao0S6o87ebFy5kv44PM0e5rha48Fr3gIJwqHxcWAm57DQpqdqqcqAzkny4b_4HMS-hEjZCOGDxYY8H8N6pRretARllJdDnnKIvnIi7smX-Q-hPLpCMjoQS3mbkV_64k4qMG_WFn7EUqDdhDjBHmpMJuPg539187U4lZwYmnv5PxuLW68YDGSRlIQsxZzqcS3SDHKirICsrlRDVNxfDxTw7zJXjIgiOQfk3UzfWxR84tmGHGVHS0RrqLnv2Jlf3FkrwGtOz0E9HfmyxZ6S_ThDZQxcWPyUuSPBiCzuLpOn1uoCOpdPcufadMSKk0-IEUPu4hdBjYQkRErB9s8Z_A1aA-N5TY-5jNi4kYQWx5tG5Rd9HzizEgZdqXsC0VqauTL8XoFWQXBX4wmdqU_Q2wSQNBXZ1nKSe511fjKylGQ9Db8A2GgceOEocdS0-o7vfAxUna12PW6xBT7qLpXO9MDBpHnUplmaHQIVm7swda0YRZforfaFZEM72fu2rQpRzDTGp1bYd95uXgv2_JwNMW6NmHpkwIF8Tf5EUVBD64xVjJ9DRb4xtKsOoTTkLXUfBHDcAdLM7i46VR5kA8k51qGUhkVCD4xe2pkGJc2Av8QzCOiMcYEQFNHGrZcuEKVcVbJ4GSkbP9J2x-b7Y=w1066-h800-no)

A new sticker for every state we finished.  2019 will be Utah, Idaho, and Oregon.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4p5Fx3rAWe44GIl6Qi2tlIci4-KogQxgA3ZhUl3-Tee_hyC3QguadvMMIcIPC4UEnwlJLYJdgvVKZ87UKEp9ABaiJSNmz8HLKPOhTm9P3SxcDRh_hfGagY1wrfIXpDY1xxNZ_ieOFpDbHXFAJYZemHhQfw5IoHV9xKJ35iNoV1Xfz7uIuwoJyzlcgAv4FIufXbfsy8QYk53vqO1eo-P1XY7jX4YiSILIBUctWuBfH3RQ06Ra5A2cPj7hHMgrt0_6a1rt8gGUyb5nDaR7Qr5348uEmd-JOqgHfzymQgncWx-G9f7mzU070eyKcihldkMz-h4rRRAgnUTZrNL6iyZ3mYzy3opbJW_NcRihQpncfHXidl_0vgSViVnVv-IZyOSnQioJblmZeR9FN6bAHwPEMyGyVufSNKte8YC93RgGETRwuFZ7322ogLKlPncH36a1MaA-tUuKca_vv8OvnPChe1uLjf3igQzo7KPfEFL5OkSJdjb3p9k8tNSMOus1OB3uWZDztpMd5CY3krfqwdnhtuSoSbRJHC90d0L2Fr2-uULMgw26oTWEvElELbo5Y-ZI1yob146h0f8LWFC3y5TXys0wKfXfYqMM3ZQ2s_nOq6v0khefXhfVWrJrhNJi26Fyi97x3jDDi505fRq1b32yX_63L98U3gOrGWwNiT-r6NodD-v8a6VgajqbHZ6j2dQ0NrZTkdlIoxKnMrPVHiM=w1066-h800-no)

The Eagle ended up being the pack mule for the group, we had to get all the extra weight off the bikes to help the riders endure.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ney4sAReuqgcmcOSVhv1eFqE8DcBB95DjGOV4DDLu1fgSasZCiP1BKSIZhHI00RqIRCOuC_v0bZ9fCLf-g5z-f3UHUFZvJq8BwSg64loXw3t7sSt-gZUZhdJxwgwH_r_P9HT5O6WpboxFofZ8CpCcoKfwTPaVLsERaTh8WbVE29fdSJY5ahawGAb9uBBusGrV5HG1k-HmBZ_Ggaqo1-Rjh6mOwRihZULdTiGnYeMUjMr0eqO5fnR3A4omn352yVOtbNVNVlE-oLtr2eGuZG_KSzG5uImWEf1NmPygJVue9qAOP05o_yU3s9HuVXLsrr4z9DpYztswjv899aBVWQXA37EA4bX7dF_iYTAbMQr23110-TwKbuy8KPzYtlVrz9FzPob6KS7K1uWY5x9yxnUcXsrBBhK56numyb5NXJ9YpF9VU6kECh_NCHXyR2VhGG5MY-Lb7wYTbMu5vXaR4_tDcpFkjEhJklXvXmgk93OJ4EDr23JJqnRWuPiTNSR4-j-8XmA_g_jeqOXYfotRfb_i92DVg4dg36aRKZ0Cdsp1WcfCrJ8cgVyvCsL0ia3dW5AQqMkdhzSPUlnIZOcJXklBfn0iyMcOnpBvDd0OxY730cpPUfCvMLlP5WuHY8nrtzq-IO7CZQquChSrtHbc31sUoBKdUel68MMeHSMj1l6_tNo3nrCqpMxia4O6iH0Tqiw9ZOqj5YFyVbn-QjxOCg=w1066-h800-no)

All stored and ready for the big finish in 2019!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yp2WOdqbLTzsUtxW4IHXJZOsKG0rYBe7za418rRyByN8YZlenSSuGAYHlhZsgA6bdqYAznXtviGdlSrerrIiUUiD2K2Osekjx8YAMRoDwVoo8NAjO8JBPF80q0hogUpfiPoOBTbguKoyEmGz3jFlFfCDJwhHJlROv2ztbhpVCA7gHfUpSa5BuAw1NWCPzPcVJFu8quuGy2DoO3qhCH6WwjsNzVdam7ao-6wyk9FpR-XwBs_r7t1sMov7u95vr-skKJXI5k1D9S0a9hKMF7GL8TPKEnnb_D385uQ1V4ysp7vfIll35TxLeBHYkRxu8OoBmIxvGTbYxK4pDELrTa26K3eoYcaQ0D9BhP5wHVtOF_MF9jRI2OPjKELTUpUgMB1H3AhWD7bjgmyklNNWIEM6yq8H4_3a9KcBk9QymZ-w9zeXsLsjfI7nHNpI-QbeEUZ37kyHL4nAHYpQxSHZryvlsRYpDsjzkgTWbGeiBN4QnVM_rhwFCDnGgxmXuqO17U2s6Updb9GyuFl5wV7LejGIuvGrqXP3kOW9fNxkD6o4pqziHwLmbkPT6tOcmk3FNGKvQSzJlW6O1AKWcyr_ELi0g__C6wJYijTu7OV-VQqTpxaCcct5ZC1PVfPlSoPQFPJjXKwGwoTsLERHam6VYqI3BwMxss_eKSrB2qTl05dGIjAAnZExNjeYMH1nuOvsN4pv4_2RMSZ7rO1rTx_3BmM=w1066-h800-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Ace2600 on March 22, 2019, 11:20:09 AM
MAN, That is a good looking eagle. Consider me jealous!!
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: Taylor on March 23, 2019, 11:49:30 AM
Thanks for the thread. Lots of great pictures.
On the trouble posting. I know there is a size limit for photos. 5MB, No limit with overall data. I just haven’t found it yet. I need a 36hr day for everything I need to do, including work on My Eagle.
Did you travel the Trans America Trail?
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: RallyEagle on March 23, 2019, 02:31:53 PM
Awesome read.  Similar to what my buddy and I were going to do in CO next year.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 12, 2019, 09:26:12 AM
Been a while but the "Eagle Knievel" is still going strong.  I have it stored in Salt Lake City, getting ready for two trips this year that should have us at the Pacific.  In July we will go from Salt Lake to Boise, then come back in August and go from Boise to a beach in Port Orford, Oregon.  This is all on dirt, following the Trans-America Trail with two motorcycles.  I had no idea when we started that it would take 3 years to finish, hah!

I needed to do some repairs and maintenance, so I snuck out to Salt Lake recently.  Felt good to get ready for the trip this year well in advance - seems like I am always last minute.  No big upgrades this year - yet!  I did find a local UT shop to run a new exhaust.  Mine was sagging down after I had the CAT replaced last year, they hacked it together.  Now I have a high and tight exhaust, and it's very shiny!  For now anyway, the shop couldn't believe the mud under the Eagle from last year's trail ride.

While I was in UT, one of my motorcycle buddies (Dan) joined.  We went down to Moab and had some fun there.  He rented a RZR side-by-side and we ran a couple trails together with the Eagle.  We ran Fins and Things and also He-l-l's Revenge.  The Eagle did great, but the trails were really pretty technical.  I think I have that worked out of my system - the Eagle is more of an Overlander than a rock crawler.  One more thing I learned about the Eagle - once you are heading down a 45 degree incline, the oil light will come on until you level out again!

We got tons of attention in Moab, everybody was grinning at the Eagle and lots of thumbs up.  Most couldn't believe we were on the trails without 35 inch tires and a huge rig.

Pictures!

This is me picking up my buddy at the airport - better than Uber!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/d-Ae8SHCVPbQFx-llCD3lX4f5jnXTfaAotZ9BQusl5QiDgb6MS4F0xpVvp6j1SRpKvxwHQFPa9_dR2M_vItSJVlzEhYS58T18fiWWVT2HKZ9cWLBrKuFFMirgHYHF-XJtOJYh9Fox_8G9EEibkDvzj2pOrYKk0fjviwm0UMKFiUqfndJGQakfd9cv5OUwRbiqbuxramA-uZkwfXkINZW0-rFxrdQ5QycnoUD0hVbV3iUMCLdCH4KM2hOl2Y35RJu4lpNdHxPMFjfbd6KW0lUtVwhjkd4GF2fTW8tfjdMJOaNtBZOd3PoW9A9pbYQgxL-EW__MgOMUNvXz-eHOTDQ4lhQGrFSBqwjj8ugbsjncBqp4yN8vEyNykY9Fn7L4JDeEdo8x4qacbvWMsKVRG_db-6Zi3F5G0rluftkuIQMcjKWCq9kWQjfk-RHlM3u-uZsFKW53AAm2edTNfKEiT4YhzFzTU2nfdrB_DHPDPjChUj20Cwe_ofxX1gFzgEBRVwlXoIpc-I5YtFSEBi2IUkQnmNGtkDjhZ-TgdJ-Xo_lBGQWoZ1aOC1sDtm_3J_MT9R5Fc4KICNdqBv2iUIST-7BxFAkLZWL2r1FrNhjg_77Lder1J9UL9D3DLTzpB98KFb3AwHQHvElO_Hf24vnm1Lqfia3_EN1XrJBn6sbGw83YfRImmTHNacIvVf9B2-H1JhaA6W9333Zpd-f9Xt3bP3i=w727-h969-no)

We headed to Moab and the scenery was amazing.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Y9X03vsGxnB8d4or2QWx-QM3AQLMwUAVaFc4s9uA8D4ow_t3Vz2pPBMGKLq68EKT7-sjrVLc9qhMh687PMoYgGxxY3GVDO4ArDmZG6si7kI4xsiog-ut2PzU9W3Jpvh7zzxi7IOvx45mK6bGWv2yt-4jQS4msQtydNK3oWfNim9QVHZOLWsQLoNIu8-ZMUd2OmtX4bOJFb0nW4G7qKLb0p0AxxYkmWSd6CNl2TU189pHVgGJOliD-cmAJXz-_M3NNnnreG_Q5wfl-RA1n76bpHmZ2rThdnd0hPUVP00PM_znrN0KFBB4brR47cjqKPpu-ka0rX1oS6P579ybkWNLHu0iTjQV0GwnSeAJEI9XSRw1GKcRCheEmeLuezlwPvcZzsPLcLezy-QfWgxPkZxctCJv-jWJruVowpmdn_3-hhzS0XW35ggO9jiUkXvG6UAGDqlWTuNaKxPqqNAliP2iD1fzWH7PMQ_673bePGxsgpAlTaeMRAzjT5p0GEPHwiPN5Osb3oVsOeEnVmEcOZrLgyaDWk0LDEIdc79Q3SxlyCvxbVW8krQoWovtcTomqESyMqvWEat2xMZgahUSVVMixGqLkJpg28joa6Z7EgG2hVke7gRQ1lGPf1Pn3XFKOLnOvv3At8ql45FrSAr8jO7upXjWRsrLPzw0Mp66-AOyVPpzwdhp3SFSSSe238tUxGjRepkEfxn5cfTAvST7aFWU=w958-h719-no)

This is inside Arches National Park
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YMHqyJojTlBAYT4q2VHwvimRKMkzIfNIdcOgU7_A3BoSPuAd_NM29jP_KFjG1K9lEMODUNZz3aISyNOkWSRD69Ol0XCAARLJoo8t8bjyuphqNHcEOneWdelZr47TBIzYlHsX-m2MkO-YAfSxDDk3zMsXvFvDtwfF73k4ykKFARtEMWLsXxj6CipDQACTZY10CwiG8Q0PCa5hqiZjY4M_PK47aID7htw-BqNawMA12mOc7ZbkH6oezSZl0w4qoB2MZ0HfzLy6uYEtXg_xL1GrAPhHjHVnhYJZ92Vkqthw3KS8SusyHstWSzaF8EMMn35we1sgE8cVmzJ6-IiKjLu-L9smLYe65eKB1NeMqEIPHl05UhJI8epTN3ZZFt44hj5D1L6Apx7iPuVee1ewuzKTxUC3PS-nMUz4pzRZXoFbf62mfTQWbVuk3Rdc0owxSAfrI5XZCdkxa_NTfBjWRgn_sZBIyXcphNVAo8ZbNzkdpf_DI-qxxO5vG7GRsoZhmd1jByTa10-7LSDMqoH_M4lgTe5_x2ZpT1m_Ygz3fHc45MDVBfrFD6gcD9HstpJKn_BC31DV9eHimF23xr4njEY1rB6QU5ZCV6dfk5ZBqXrao07FnN4c7-HmROgGvq5CKlv8O2MwV39nW5pR5Tw62oIXIi_Yi2you6-CacdRLg8S5pazKPF61r0TPZFLLRVqyosBWehMJrhyo5O7ZGjln0vB=w727-h969-no)

We found some trails inside Arches Park.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TIFSrE-uezzFtHMiBf3HgxE6afplJcPD1KfB0uwPNeWjOuC4QYk2b6ZZVZEzVQJ7ktu2IFYA9Z003Yin-VKdI-930RbHTk6ZchWfLooJn5bomLFWmsBDcp1nNEnLwEl-Y-_HgUufxuFcr6crdFfiaEoqHbONpSDhu429rorjrGKjpvRc_QX1YAeeNNa0BS-DCe-1fXkD6wc9Sb9mEElIFqPdHkgKbXTsXWmkWZP4teeQLWXxECG_Qu24k6faYRDUfcf5-3WRhHfjqTqTjWNwBEDwXvSKKd_dQnOvtpfHjToQX-mNRCVRz-uf4kS-Fg0TAU6zw0LVEA1u8sZzBw7SfEm_xbntBsw726utj_Fkj4NiVhMh03JcWkFks-WU8fKk77z2HiUXgh9c7KPcmtPJLMyNeWKM9jP5zrMTq2KbUmQ3D5F7ELOT5qTb4ieFdgzQOHeErjN2ItDB-3_bA_czToAPjKVQMXcKNJspSCKFGzbyd_XCAZxt2qP17KE2eZeRRj8V2NyYy8m8MIowAS4REfcO8N53wqBSR8SWLGLrDDkVuK5FSpCeuJyqBjJHNCveNfi88n1TVGsTy3XhKLvhKTFFk7ZDTdnzjSzBFohkq20TxgB2ZAUJFgg4RXL0Qn0IAZe7f1Ok4QpbWuGUdESMUR-2kjcoNO8VnmmTwRCXG_htUjAu1D6GibczZV_IkiI0beHC9Iy7znqzyhabmd-B=w958-h719-no)

Rented one of these...made a funny pair with the Eagle!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OGRxXD1QDpkuO169aN4J-5HH13NI--IEIXYEJLLMYa7vivZ6xbXMaHDjPKxUUR9k6TxuQvptZnZhhPosNJX5yrvvNKtDP87hXVrY0mDUkW3I7vcgMb7y7wtS6XhHXhhkrRx0c4TMfiE3AI14pNjMgzykf_HSsMwbMVdkQFlS9r2_AYgHvnrtUWs1thqh3oKTuWk98u9242bXHPTXeLvjLQatsdrksg1QXrRSKWmCRGdIYS2zIqsbqYmsSPRViaEr6KD50uvD8QpMLF_p1fD-9NA6amWewnY12NLz3R9DoFFjHsrkvyvXXyBaDD83TKIgpcqlRXuo9zuhlyv8jp9sPLondpPRdGeSi_8iQUpz9iggwkjbV2qNWdSWmFYHySDp6CR2THPuuk9XZU0coCqMF54PzTRnmvxVifqDfviJMugG3kXHVnRgOQr2pO3CmyyfcP5PC5wr9_G_y5Po8-40YHYUWtA7pRCWLBXa7rwhlnH1knQiLeABMa72Dyw0AZUWyWwkVYdbV5HwPpYAjNyI8egLaM8EH1UTJRIIbi86eDYHLakqmGkcCDzCMumRZ25FHBWp7IrQby7BImdX14ELjThg-F1yMvNEMwcnb8XOtcXZqpxshXF20S84AVWYsQq1HpJj3IdKATR4Q_vcOIIn6Xx6pF_co_X6mYs2Xz53RNvPGDE2JUs7QEBGOvR5jwoVZrt0Y2nYYn9b6GYZG4I6=w958-h718-no)

Lots of steep stuff, but traction wasn't a problem.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8loGyaRtAdqE9ejtuTJzKtC6QFobHCi63qKZ8AlVH7C_TL4XUS-9uf83N4JQJ6PH_DGdOWnaSqkK66FNmfNgdqBnWgbdk51dwlEoqAh7O8yG0O83EK1DUnvAOYD5SG1Jp3WeZIfZFGUpDIBJW1akdEtmTpfYwHPLacuTfIm-vza1tumkVFgmIe8F9CueL_gfvGZgMWJ-uRzy5RZINETyOoMrlu7OOYb2ud7Jb84DXdhWuuTEPc-zAPzlpC7qddz8GGsdlsxdln0fGbg25QMiCo8pXBvzK7fFQaKaKTDT7GVUVYG19iFw36HXpfcBP6SC5BvDd1kUp8J5p03VEGqFtudgIhMkwa5Q-yCQry15XwzaeFfcT2KididoFpqdZ4-LNI-owRiTp3qeZAx4LvLMxOLWHqGLNtn-UTT5t_T-15DV3U5cEmYaJtyH-QjXd2YvVVxrdjdk9oTnSCWr00ERt-hNGAulvQ7LH7RptVW4KfEFjJBqD7kMfp2qgE3-yJ7y6MMgxOAqHY0tNMqrnPuVqwubSJkNXE18kgzp4LLnk2O2ZvzHlH1GSNrOo9f69hCgn85Mczamg83PwoUhiP2MZfrTM80EgINmNEPs3FHI-Ox43HKyEvJHsnHEjEOvhZzpt498zA-3nXgx5s52gcYhBRm2QvcNHo9XJwdX9CctW09khjUJiRv137rvW98QRTRGMdVOr7568MvziTKUVEcX=w958-h539-k-no)

On top of the world!  This is on H-e-l-l's Revenge trail.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1_Bwyyo740OO7mgrTzwdUHhMcgtfu7papRQkaqrEqXbC4HcmHSkV2cafPmTWp-X4snPIQmEbweCILlol6yBeq6W8bY2PtzkifsGw2E4UUlFF_oPKNaVQxRT-xq_G4xVg7Au4SpJoo1km2wquipjeMCeUp6xMW86uXYPQ6_yIDLaFw33-5Nc9nVR73xQGPjKRPIdD4t3XyBac88iS_b6xeJRd9sBsAv2DT0FWjz-lWNUlBqyYbML_xJI5fqUsO4QKpitAoGkKow7Vn4KuRoFx51PYUt3rW8rowjV0tGROZEkLJkid6E-XPaTOt0uBbYJLHz9CHIsw0ITH1Ml9wPIj421E0H0WJCbNNXl1TTcT_wNx4Q6uG8GVFqjDoJtvWNkxRqAQAV-XuMbSEg9HIIboyhzfiL1Z7f9L8XE7DrP_dNRvvR88-tk-2b1CpUlu9Ia31-oSN6njphtap9CdUjLae9XSr-MVZmqjef1Wm72ot6Z5NdCULOFXmIa5_XDy--2TTiJazzA0sbo_QmDSDzK3czCb-nHDA4XoAlVgkSHJWwa2m4QniWMUp5TJdF32uK0mrwDsgRKDFy05bYYrK6DK7i9pxxWNpPPlzcGIaYjkKsVvGH05NG7BlFVWYPzR44IUFrcCxewUDWxp-cDQN8K7rtMbVeNQv61nvhTL5imWo8ROIwb7KD3kKsTCp5gHn4_3TKE89YH5StMZ_jMb3M0=w958-h719-no)

Up and over!

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZwolyYC5W8A0ZBWaqpJiyTaB5HLXTIxrqW8nboUqjSWE0ZC3sc5BgfCRCyZYKvBXN3fg7TQvNQWhTZavdKBFxQnwTqiVDhh1pW7jZ4_aQJNK6dAJTF822p7q_Kvo28Sm-YOwj1RIX2W-eHjdVW7Yzq4rQnrCt3I1Yze6npqsNmHccAWSojkWR12MX0AUFul36Bc_nHQWzBLowdgxsiiJYzLJJJvqyIv2-49758Fk9MGC7q7U2hKy5TY7Az9v_0J9hA3az_4X4LEF1nwgadL4lNAuWNNQ207gakx7jHo0xJzsWWfRezZ4I8hh6fAvItH24oqNgmU27tGz9D1Hb04odU1L_UPD2vU_hXAd-K-Avzv1Mhi7NHBi-bf0sNmw55JHAvVo0DIbW4XP-61mQ_aqYRE9foC8DVDz0Jp4I6yrTjBoWK_pJfocMN826N4UD_xeKBNZi8TWfL7FKhWxWIisdZGfc-5dGnpnpdcts8N9AASdA7hBRFhn_8007IbFNSMS0BvOmChwMMuTQPwx2pKE09PyvmZcQ6v2iPMft4ch5RVnLF-P4oWRnMB9TP89vBfq2xuBJE9Mz6wBZE4yu_M028gGf933piuJcYkA8ZskrTp4pdUIdh4asA-yRyzJhUCWYSrG43j1X06WiLEmdCs9P5uxwYlL0-orhzdLCj_GRk7e4lyh76RnIvf1dKxff5INkvANWwV0ztkbqJApEs__=w958-h539-k-no)
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on June 13, 2019, 10:22:16 PM
Awesome. I think everyone should visit Moab at least once. It's truly breath taking.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: vangremlin on June 14, 2019, 10:07:03 AM
Awesome. I think everyone should visit Moab at least once. It's truly breath taking.

I agree, you see scenery there you won't see anyplace else on earth.  I've done some of the trails on the area on a two-wheeled, pedal powered vehicle and had a whole lot of fun!  Even if you never get off the main roads there is so much to see.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: eaglefreek on June 14, 2019, 11:12:15 PM
I've been there in my old 86 Eagle, on a dirt bike and with my Isuzu Trooper. Dirt bike was definitely the most fun, but all were a great experience.
Title: Re: You bought what?? 88 Eagle Wagon - Overlander Build
Post by: amarshall on June 15, 2019, 03:13:14 PM
We went though Moab last year, and I am glad I took the chance to sneak back down there while the Eagle was stored fairly nearby in Salt Lake City.  Last year we didn’t do any of the trails, just passed through.  I had been wondering how the Eagle would do at the more technical stuff.  I can honestly say I have it worked out of my system, hah!  The trails were amazing and the Eagle did well enough, but I’d have been much less worried in a big Jeep with 35” tires.  It was a little nerve wracking at times!

We start the next leg of our Trans America Trail journey on July 6.  It will be good to get back to the “safety” of the dirt roads again.  The distances are much longer and it’s still tough on the vehicles, but there is very little that is a real challenge for the Eagle.