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| My Samurai Build Up Philosophy Overall, I like to keep the Samurai setup somewhat like stock. This not only retains the positive attributes of low weight and small size but also allows the utilization of stock parts or slightly modified stock parts. If you've gotten bit by the bug, I highly suggest the purchase of a parts Sam or scrounging a yard the will sell Sam drivetrain parts for cheap. This way, you have extra parts to modify/repair and then you can install them when you have the time. I build my Sams for reliablity and off-road fun; not for looks. Also, I don't care for Sams with super high lifts (SPOA with 3" springs, with 3" Body Lifts) and huge tires (35"-39") on stock axle components. I've seen quite a few unsafe Samurais and I don't want to be associated with the boneheads that build and drive them. Engine: Stay with the Suzuki 1300cc and 1600cc engines. There are very reliable, efficient, and cost effective. A V-6 is overkill and will require the complete replacement of the drivetrain to be reliable off-road. When all is said and done, you Samurai will probably weigh about 1000lbs more. What I've done on both of my Samurais is swap in 1600cc Suzuki engines, installed ISKY cams, added Weber carbs, and put DT Headers on. It's not exactly a strip car but it's enough power for the lightweight, low geared, Samurai. Gearing: If possible, reduce your gearing at the transfer case and leave the stock 3.73s in the diffs. This will also allow the common stock diffs to be swapped out for trail repairs or for the installation of lockers. What I run are 4.16:1 cases (Rockcrawler, GRSI, Rockhopper, Rocklobster, etc.) which also reduce the gearing back to stock for 30" tires. These cases are fairly cheap ($500) in kit form and even cheaper if you get the SJ410 case yourself. Lifts: If you've got a daily driver, I highly recommend OME springs.. The Sam will handle like stock but the ride will be much smoother. If you plan on off-roading your Sam alot, then go with a SPOA. Keep the lift to a minimum-just enought to clear the tires. Tires: 31-32"" tires are probably the best tire size for the Samurai. Anything bigger simply puts too much stress on the axle components and greatly reduces their service life. It also requires either the diff gears to be swapped out or the more expensive t-cases. Traction Devices: Lock Rites or EZ Lockers. Simple and effective, with no air lines to get pinched or yanked out.. The downside is the quirky handling when drive on-pavement. Axles:The SJ410 backing plate conversion allow axles to be swapped out without touching the brakes and it also allows spare axles to be easily carried. For the front, birfield rings protect the joints from a premature death. Brakes: With only 31-32"" tires, the stock brake setup works just fine. Steering: The Breeze Crossover linkage is the best on the market-perfect for a SPOA. With just 31-32" and a front locker, power steering is simply not needed when this linkage is used. |
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