Hey Folks!

I'm going to install the 3" Calmini lift in the next week or two when I get the time. Words of advice from anybody whos gone down this road would be much appreciated.

Xtra hands would help.

Well, that helps a lot.

Try and find a club (if you aren't in one) and see if the members will help. I'm in the same boat you are in. Mine is going in April 10th, and I know I can't do it by myself. But the guys in SWXC and TNT are gonna help, so I'm not worried.

Make sure to have/use marine grease for UCA bushings.

I didn't use it, and mine squeeks every time after they contact water...rain, snow...stream crossing, etc.... Now, I have to spend extra time to take them apart and grease them up...

gmaxis, surfingteacher, & XSAL

Thanks for the input I appreciate it immensely

XSAL - I see from your post that your from Mountain View. Are you heading out to Hollister this weekend with NCCX? I'd like to ask you some more questions about your lift.

:p

1. Get a BFH and a pickle fork for removing the old UCA's.
2. Put some threadlock on the ball joint bolts when you mount them on the UCA's. You really don't want them shaking out. (Akio didn't that happen to you or was it Huey?). Some people have through bolted them instead.

I think it was Akio. Just use some Locktite Blue as Patrick mentioned. And BFH=Big F-ing Hammer, a 5lb sledge should do it, just be careful not to hammer your thumb. If you want I can lend you my pickle fork on Sun.

BTW, long time no see Patrick, how you been?

BFH I thought that was local slang. Apparently not.

I guess it was me.

http://www.xterraownersclub.com/cgi-local/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=73;t=000426#000000

Also, it is a good idea to have bolts and nylon nuts ready for brake line brackets as the instruction says. You could use zip-tie thingy, but it'll only last for about a year.

All right!

So we have the following tips:

* Marine grease for the UCA bearings to prevent squeaking

* BFH & Pickle Fork for removing UCA's

* Locktite Blue to keep the ball joint bolts from coming loose

* Extra Hands

Can anybody think of anything else?

Thanks everyone for your input..

Looks like I will be converted over to the dark side soon!

It's funny, I've installed 4 CALMINI lifts now, and we've never had a problem with the ball joint mounting bolts loosening.

If installed correctly, with the proper torque, they should be fine.