What do you guys check just before an outing?

[iamgeer]

I have less than a month to go before Jeep Jamboree. I don't have much free time before we leave so I would like your advice and suggestions on what I should check to minimize the possibity of something going sideways? I have been driving the Jeep around town (Calgary) for a couple of days. The first time it has been driven in about 15 years. All the fluids were changed recently, and after 10 hours of driving there are no leaks, well serious ones anyway - it is a Jeep after all. Also, what spare parts/tools/emergency items would you suggest I bring along?

Karl

[jpflat2a]

I check my Jeep like the pilot of a plane does his plane.
I crawl around underneath, looking for problems/potential problems.
steering, suspension, clutch linkage, brakes, wheels, all get a looksee
oil leaks, oil levels, hoses, belts,
grease all the tie rods, u-joints (never seen one wear out from too much grease)
I probably spend about 1 hour checking things over
As far as parts, only carry what you can afford or are capable of repairing yourself. (I carry a lot of parts: experiences as to what breaks are the key here)
I like to think that my four wheels are my vehicles life blood. If something catastrophic happens in the drivetrain, (engine, trans, transfer case, axles) I know that at least I can tow it back to camp, tow it home, store it somewhere, push it, pull it, whatever has to be done can be done later, but I have to have those four wheels to get it somewhere. I carry knuckles, spindles, wheel hubs, locking hubs, and wheel bearings. ( I am running full float in the rear)
I have been known to carry axles with the bearings already pressed on in my tapered axle days.
Sounds like a lot but not really. Most of it stays in camp; camp is closer for repairs than your hometown.
the more you drive your Jeep and wheel it, the more you get to know it better.
I don't like to see someones weekend ruined because of parts that are sitting at home.
Take them with you, you won't need them in the driveway!
I could go on and on, sorry so long, coming up for air now

[timgr]

I'd go over the Jeep like Jim suggests, but carrying a lot of drivetrain parts seems a bit far down the list, at least for a first outing. I'd start with the simple things that can obviously strand you - gas, spark, and tires... ie fuel pump, coil, can of flat sealer, that kind of stuff.

[DanStew]

I would do all of that, but make sure to check the wheel bearings. I have had so many go out because of the water down here, and nothing is more disheartening that hearing the groan of a wheel bearing going. Then it is more fun when the wheel bearing totally locks up :(

[Boyink]

Don't forget your "human" parts...make sure to carry a first-aid kit and fire extinguisher.

[lynn]

The rules for the Jamboree, as I recall, include a requirement for a mounted full size spare tire. Be sure it is the same diameter as your other tires, best if it is a match in size and pattern. You'll need tools to change the tire, so lug wrench and hi-lift jack (with appropriate base) are important. Also take a tire air pressure gage. You will probably air down for the trail, then air up later.
You also need front and rear recovery points. Tow hooks, or 2" receivers with pins if your bumpers are so equipped. Be sure these are mounted securely. A 2"x30 ft tow strap (with loops, NOT hooks!) rated at 20,000 lbs is a good thing to have. Work gloves, and a 18" long piece of broom handle should be carried with the strap (to connect 2 straps; they will show you how at the first meeting :) )

A CB radio is a good item to have. It keeps you in touch with the group.

As far as parts, I agree with most of the above. Check the bearings before you go, replace any if you aren't sure of their condition. Carry other spare items and tools to fix the items that can strand you and you know how to fix yourself. Tune-up items, some WD-40 or other water-displacement spray for electrical use, maybe a spare ujoint and the tools to remove/replace

Oh, Karl, one more thing...
.
.
.
A good Camera!! We want pics!! R)
Have a blast, we're looking forward to a fully illustrated report! :D

[duke54]

Let's see cooler , ice , :beer: :beer: R) R) R)

[timgr]

Oh, any AMC V8 should have a spare coolant bypass hose.

[iamgeer]

Thanks for your input guys. There are some good suggestions here. How big should a fir extinguisher be? I have a good 5lb, is that enough? I already have a complete ognotion set up (save a distributor). I am going to go get a couple of u joints and a replacement hose and return hose, and a couple of wheel bearings. I already have tow points at all corners and will pick up a tow strap this weekend. We have a Jeep show and shine here in Calgary this weekend hosted by the Calgary Jeep Association ( www.calgaryjeep.com). I am bringing the Jeep to it. I dont expect to win anything, but its a shiny no rust nearly stock '74 so who knows.

BTW, we are bringing a good camera along and I promise to post some pics.

Karl

[lynn]

5 lb extinguisher should be plenty. I carry a 5-pounder; I think many guys carry a smaller one.
I have my bracket bolted to my roll cage. To keep the unit secure to the bracket while maintaining QUICK access for an emergency was always a problem, until a friend and fellow e-jeeper solved it for me:

Secure the bottle to the bracket/roll bar with a dog collar that has a plastic quick-release buckle.
Tighten the collar around the bottle/bracket and roll bar to prevent rattles or accidental knocking the bottle off the bracket (the mount is usually flimsy, escecially on the heavy 5-pounder). The quick-release buckle assures QUICK access if needed.

HTH Karl. Best of luck in the show, looking forward to the show and Jamboree pics!

[72_CJ5_MUD]

The most important things I have always carried are "DUCT TAPE" and FLASHLIGHT with extra batteries!
The General (wife type person, one each) always brings her tool set and other spare parts as required for either a short or longer mission.
FOR GODS SAKE :NEVER FORGET THE DUCT TAPE!
Gunner (USMC, MGySgt. ret)

[mb82]

To make sure my ride is still going:oops: R)

[Strider380]

In my experience, zip ties beat out duct tape any day. but I carry both. And make sure you've got that special "key" to get the 5th lug nut off your tire. Geeze, I can't imagine forgeting that thing. I always have a couple lengths of wire. U joints and a vise on your front bumper is a great thing too.

[Executioner]

Since you already said you have ignition parts, how about a simple carb rebuilb kit. I've rebuilt my carb at the side of the road on my Diplomat cause the float kept sticking for some reason...6 yrs later the roadside rebuild is still holding, maybe spare fluids? and a battery jumper pack isn't a bad idea either.

[sagegoat]

I take a gamble everytime I start mine.