Re: Rock Rails for 4x4

From: Killerdak@aol.com
Date: Sun Jul 18 1999 - 13:24:59 EDT


In a message dated 7/16/99 7:50:36 PM, jbleazard@home.com writes:

<< Hey Dave,

I like the sound of those rock rails. Be sure to let us know how they turn
out and any tips for duplicating them if they're as good as they sound.

Thanks. >>

Yep, a buddy of mine in the Central NC 4x4 club is fabricating (welding
together) some really heavy-duty rock rails for my Dak out of square-tubular
3/8" thick steel bars, this is one helluva heavy nerf bar on steroids!! The
idea actually came from another club member who had similar rock rails welded
to the frame on his Toyota 4Runner, welded directly to the frame of the
truck, and sticking out from the sides by a few inches so as to deflect any
obstacles (i.e. big-ass rocks) away from damaging the sheet metal and rocker
panels. When we made an excursion to Tellico N.F. in Murphy, NC, the rock
rails prevented a TON of damage and allowed him to slide over big rocks
without fear of damage. BTW, these are strong enough to hold the weight of
the vehicle...we used a hi-lift jack to test it and it is essentially an
exterior extention of the frame, at least as strong if not stronger!

My rock rails will be similar, welded to the frame of my Dak between the
wheels by four connecting bars, and sticking out on the sides by a few
inches. Right now one side is welded together (but not to my truck yet) and
ready to be painted (rust-oleum hammered black metal finish), and we just
need to make a few adjustments on the other side before that is welded
together and also painted...probably done in another week or so!

____________________
Dave Kilian
Clayton, NC
'96 Dakota CC Sport 4x4 3.9L 5-spd
Mods: 2" Rear spring lift, front T-bar crank, 30x9.50 BFG AT's, Brush guard
w/ Hellas, Tow hooks, Tool Box, Sunroof, Cobra 18 CB, 4' Firestik II, Alpine
6-disc CD Changer/Head Unit/amp, JBL speakers, Rhode Gear bike mount, and a
white dog named Jake in the passenger seat. 75,000+ miles.
In progress: custom-welded rock rails!!!



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