Yet Another Noob

[johnboy007]

Hi There

I purchased a weekend warrior 4x4 a year ago, nothing flash just a cheap 1996 Escudo (The 2.0ltr V6). I have managed to get it out and dirty a few times, the truck that is. But planning on hitting woodhill again and it is an addictive experience of which I rather enjoy, so may need some advice on some improvements.

A couple of requirements, must remain road legal but not a daily driver..... and thats about it.

The previous owner had already given it a 50mm lift so thats a good start, the V6 is gutless on hills especially and I suspect it may be because of the increased wheel diameter (29 inch)but I am certainly not mechanical so im just guessing. I would love to upgrade the wheel tyre combo to something fat and wide to replace the 225/75/16 setup, open to any suggestions in that area but don't know how wide I can go on those stock rims.

Also would like to do something about the springs/shocks, doing the pine sections of woodhill is like driving around in the a garbage can. The truck handles it fine but what a noise, I know its not a luxury ride but it always sounds worse than it is and I get a bit nervous.

So in short, can I get more out of the V6 gutless wonder, and can you suggest a good wheel/tyre combo and suspension setup suitable for off-road mainly yet road legal.