October 2008 Four Wheeler 4x4 Trucks

Matt Lawson of San Jose, California, commissioned the fabrication gurus at XXX Traction of Seaside, California, to build a one-of-a-kind solid-axle Dodge Dakota. The build started with a '99 pickup with a 5.9L V-8 and a five-speed automatic. From there a super-flexy suspension system featuring 16-inch King coilover shocks at each corner was installed. Next a set of stout Dana 60 axles were put in place featuring Detroit Lockers and 4.56 gearing. A custom interior cage and tube bumpers were built and then a Fuel Safe was added. For wheels and tires Matt went with a set of 40-inch Pro Comp Xterrains on 20-inch Pro Comp wheels.

Ryan Curry of Torrington, Connecticut, wheels this '86 Ford Bronco II whenever possible. Motivated by a stock 2.9L V-6, this little SUV is just begging for a 302 V-8 that Ryan has ready to swap in. Modifications include manual hubs, a 4-inch Rough Country suspension lift, Skyjacker extended brake lines, and 31-inch Courser ATs on Ford Ranger wheels. Ryan also scrapped the tulip-style driveshaft and upgraded to the lengthened U-joint style shaft. While the B2 Bomber may not turn heads, it's everything a 17-year-old can ask for as transportation and weekend fun.

Brian Nathan is a Jeep Engineer from Detroit. This '08 Jeep JK Rubicon is suited to be his daily driver. He has added an ARB Bull Bar with a Warn 9500ti winch, a pair of IPF lights, an Old Man EMU suspension system, and a set of 35-inch BFG A-Ts on factory aluminum wheels.

Want to see your vehicle in Readers' Rigs? Of course you do. So go ahead and send a description of everything you have done to your rig, and include a good photo of it. No, you don't need no stinking application. Just go ahead and send it to: Readers' Rigs, Four Wheeler, 6420 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048-5515. Or send your description and high resolution digital photos to us via www.fourwheeler.com.