Newbie type of Question..please read.

[GI-John]

I'm gonna hit NACfest while on vacation, it's gonna be my first actual organized run, and I've got lots of questions. It's not my first wheeling trip, but I wanna be as prepared as possible.


Space is at a premium for the trip w/the family to PA, and I'd like suggestions as to what to bring. Here's my tentative list, please let me know what you think I'll need.

Basic tools

M/S wrenches, sockets, pliers, vise grips, BFH, screwdrivers, etc.
(let me know if there is anything in specific I might need)

Recovery/Safety

Flag (Paragon required)
Tow strap w/ 2 shackles
come along
first aid/survival kit
Fire extinguisher
Gloves
Bottle Jack w/base
several ratchet straps

Spares/Misc
Full size spare
RTV/penetrating oil/antiseize/loctite
all fluids
u-joints (2)
nuts/bolts
Duct tape


I'm currently running the honeycomb aluminum rims. I have a set of steelies, would you recommend I switch over?


Is there anything else that I might need or want to take? I'm gonna be a long way from my garage.

Thanks in advance, and hope to see you there.

John

 

[Ghost]

Just wondering but do you have "proper" tow points front and rear?

 

[Eagle]

Whether or not you want to drag along spare shafts is up to you, and may be determined by whether you plan to run the moderate or hard-core trails. Paragon has a LOT of rock, especially the hard-core stuff, and axle breakage is common on the hard core trails.

On the other hand, Paragon is only a mile or so from Harry's, which may be the largest u-pull yard on the east coast. If you break something on Friday or Saturday, I'm sure someone will give you a lift to Harry's. I don't know if they are open on Sundays.

As to the wheels, alloy rims don't coexist well with rocks. Some members of NAC wheel with alloys because they are lighter (and they are), but steel rims are more durable and a lot cheaper to replace when you mash one into a rock. I would run the steel rims. YMMV.

 

[GI-John]

Just wondering but do you have "proper" tow points front and rear?

Recievers front and rear, Hitch mounted shackle being made this week

 

[TRL WGN 1]

Throw in some plastic Zip Ties. Never know when you can use those things.

If you don't have a CB, now would be a good time to get one.

Like Eagle said, a lot depends on which trails you plan to run, and how hard you are on your Jeep. Some people aren't happy until they break something, while others would rather take a strap than risk breakage. You have to know your style.

 

[GI-John]

Daily driver, gotta get me and the whole fam damily back home (800 miles)

I'd prefer not to break parts, and I know that shit happens, but I'm thinking low to medium (moderate)

Have a CB, Zip ties too, tire repair kit, fix a flat...

 

[Bent]

CAMERA! extra batterys, film or memory.

 

[XJ_MAC]

I'd keep the tools to a minumum since your taking the family, to save room. You'll be out with a group that should have plenty of tools that they'll lend.

 

[zero2fearo]

duct tape, is all you need.

 

[4ward]

I'd go barest of bare minimum on tools if you're looking to save on space. There's usually 3 different people that are already opening their tool boxes before you can even get out of your jeep to fix it. I'd leave the come along also. Plenty of others there. Rely on the generosity of the group cuz this is one hell of a group to run with. Trust me, you'll return the favor to others someday if you haven't already worked on your trail karma.

Of course, you could always rent one of those little tag along trailers and bring everything but the kitchen sink.

Sean

 

[Moto]

a spare belt can't hurt.

 

[Mike in NJ]

John:

Alloys will be fine on the basic and moderate stuff at Paragon, unless you plan on doing something incredibly stupid, and then I would have to say yes, alloys are more expensive to replace (don't ask! ).

And Sean is correct about the availability of tools and stuff fromf most of us who live nearby, there should be plenty of help for any situation.

Then again, Sean, will you have "room" for spring centering bolts this year?

See you in a few . . .

Mike in NJ atriot:

 

[4ward]

You funny Mike. Why is it that I can flog the crap outta my junk everywhere, but back east is the only place I break those damn things. I guess I'll make some pins out of unobtanium before I come up there

Sean