'79 G1 Lift Pics

[BigEd358]

After gathering all of the parts, this weekend I finally started installing the Jake's (6250) lift kit on my '79 G1. All went well until I starting installing the A arms. The front radius-Rod of the A arm did fit into the stock frame mounts. It needed another 1/4" space on the front of the mount for the A arm to fit and align. So, after a sleepless night of thinking how to fab a mount, the only solution was to cut out a portion of the front of the mounting tab and then to fabricate a mounting bracket. In order to retain the strength of the OEM mount, I created a "Surround" mounting bracket that I welded around the outside and inside. It gave me the clearance that I needed for the A arm to mount and move freely. Other than that, I LOVE how the cart sits (well, at least the rear for now) and how large the tires (22 - 11 - 10) rims look! Now, just waiting for two more washers before I can proceed with mounting the king pin's and front suspension.

Posts like this were so helpful when I thought about lifting this buggie. When working on these carts, you can never have too many mod posts.

I'll post more pics of when the spindles are mounted.

[Field6565]

Very nice rims and tires. Post some more pics when you get it all together.

[Jim77xlh]

Great beginnings. It looks like my neighbor's cart, and his came out great!

[BigEd358]

It's been a while since posting my progress, but the buggy has come a long way from a service cart to a Mini-Monster Cart. The old shocks are gone and I converted to the 400ex's. They sure do the trick! The front end no longer squats and recoils perfectly.

Next, I'll be fabricating a roof setup, installing the rear seat and fabricating the front seat mounts. (Got to get rid of the temporary 2x4 setup.... LOL).

While modifying a 79 G1 was not easy, it is very satisfying and I'm very pleased with the outcome. I want to thank everyone for answering my numerous and frequent questions! This forum is an invaluable resource for anyone with a buggy.

More pics to come.

[BigEd358]

This is how Franken-Cart started it's life. I think she's much happier these days. :)

[kcnaz]

Your gonna have to cut the fender out on the front. The front is now going to travel up and grab the fender. See my post as a guide for how much to cut. Without the rear articulating it is a must.

[kcnaz]

Your cart looks great by the way.

[BigEd358]

Originally Posted by kcnaz

Your cart looks great by the way.

Thanks Kcnaz! Your thread was instrumental with this build and I appreciate all of your help! So far I don't have any rubbing of the front wheels on the body or frame. Then again, I haven't carried 4 people yet. I'll definitely check out your thread for the body mod.

[slonomo]

Very nice build! Man did you make that front bumper? How much for you to make me one? LOL! That thing rocks!

[BigEd358]

Thanks Slonomo! Yes, I fab'd the bumper/grill guard. I had a blast designing it on the fly. I was lucky to find an excellent metal shop that carries all of the tube a Metal Maniac could wish for. :) I plan to insert some diamond plate in the lower area of the bumper and inset some LED running lights. I'll post more photos as I make progress. I appreciate all of your help and feedback!