So , you want to own a Suzuki SJ
Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2012 10:28 am
So you just bought your first SAMURAI. Awsome!!! Now you are ready for that top down 25 MPG 4wheelin go anywhere for Peanuts type wheelin you've been reading about. Well before you begin here are a few issues that might slow ya down.
If you own a Sammy you will most likely run into some of these items.
Age Wear and Abuse also take their toll.
Steering Rag joint (1)
Transfer case rubber mounts (3) $52
Transfercase shifter sheet (1) $10
5-spd Trans Shifter locating bolt (1)
Engine mounts rubber (2)
Then in short order you will find that the Trans bearings are noisy (Place the t-case in neutral) and go thru all 5 gears listening to the bearings. 5th gear noise will scare ya! Replace the Trans bearings ($100 kit) Don't forget the new front and rear main shaft seals or the gear oil will leak out when you park on a hill and kill your fresh rebuild.
Then you find that the lower king pin bearings are worn / rusted from abuse / holding water.
So you replace all (4) king pin bearings and do the knuckle seal kit.
Then the Rear wheel axle bearings go bad. So you replace both sides. While also replacing both of the rear wheel brake cylinders as both are locked up and not moving.
Now that it is running and being driven daily you can concentrate on the oil leaks from the front and rear crank seal and Distributor O-ring seal.
ANd don't ever overtighten the lug nuts as they will strip in the hub and spin making them not removable.
Always lube and torque the lug nuts properly.
Now your kids can go for a ride with your in the newly rebuilt sammy, But while (playing) entering and exiting the vehicle they manage to break both the inner and outer door handles on both doors along with the window crank handles and glove box door.
Than Ya hit the Key and CLICK... let up hit it again CLICK...
Sammy owners, You've Gotta love it.
