Ben's IO

32 replies [Last post]
b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:

HI guys!

I am new to the forums and have just purchased my first iO!

Its a 2001 2.0L 5dr with 188,000km and I am extremely happy with it! My grandfather owns a 2002 3dr version and has done nearly everything in it, inspiring me to get one also! After months and months of searching, I finally found this one in QLD. Coming to the conclusion that I was going to have to wait a lifetime to ever find a decent one for sale in Adelaide, I took the risk and purchased it, having it friegted home to Adelaide. I hadn't actually seen the car myself but did get an RACQ inspection done. Thankfully the risk paid off!!

This is it on its first trip, to Ngarkat Conservation Park SA. I had an awesome time along the border track until I cracked off my exhaust at the join between the flexible joint and the engine shaft...

I can tell you it was a very loud trip home... fortunately no other damage was done, and I got the car fixed the day after I got home :)

First thing I plan to do is have a bash plate made up. I am already getting some quotes to have FAB72's design made in 3mm stainless steel. I've got one quote so far for $195 does this seem reasonable? Can anyone from Adelaide recomend somewhere better?

Next, I am planning on lifting the car. I would love to do an all-in-one replacement of springs, struts and bigger tyres but don't think I could afford all that in one hit... I am thinking of first just replacing the springs. Can someone please tell me if I can simply replace the springs without having to replace all the struts also? (yes, I'm a noob and know nothing about cars, I hoping to teach myself by doing most mods myslef!) 

If I can just replace the springs, I am looking at getting this set of king springs: http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150740430962&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:AU:1123#ht_1226wt_1159 but with the KMFS-900SP as from what I can tell from the forums, this is what I need for my later model iO. (again is someone able to confirm this?!)

Eventually, I will install a CB radio, get a 40L fridge and roof racks but these are just things I'll do when I get the money. I'm not planning on doing anything too extreme, but definately after my trip to Ngarkat, I realised the need for a decent bashplate and higher clearance.

Happy iO! Ben.

 

Claude io
Claude io's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 11/10/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #1
Welcome

Welcome to the forum, I can see that you went great length to get a good Io :) well done.

I think that you understood the spring possible problem by mentioning the KMFS-900SP. Yes, this is one way of doing it. Replacing the strut at the same time is advisable and you won't have to pull everything out again later on. (strut on ebay for around $320), unless they have been replaced recently.

$195 for a bash plate is reasonable. You might find one a bit cheaper....I did get some much higher quote !!

Happy io

 

simmo777
simmo777's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 01/11/2012
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #2
P Plater IO

Hi Bob,

 

Good to see another keen IO P plater enthusiast! I can confirm that KMFS-900SP  fits the later front strut model (see my build for more details)I have a 02' 5 dr white very similair to yours!

that bash plate price is reasonable as they have to be custom cut :( everywhere here in Brisbane is 200-300 quoted so run with yours!

Hope you enjoy the forum as much as we do because they are excellent little 4wd's!

Cheers

Simmo

2002 5dr Pajero IO QA 2.0L Auto - Lifted, Locked!! 1.925 Low Range - Muddies (205/80/16) - Redback Extractors to 200cell cat to dump at diff Exhaust 

Topher
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 04/02/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #3
P Plate Power!

More P platers the merryer!

Welcome to the forum Ben
 
Thats a good price for a single plate, some places might do 2 or 3 for a cheaper price per plate. Also Stainless is a very strong steel but also doesnt take hits nicely (you will feel it if you dent it) Were as 5-6mm aluminium would be lighter, more forgiving to a hit although not as strong as stainless & cheaper if you can find the right shop. Mild steel could be another option if you can get one in 4mm you'd be laughing. would be alot cheaper but WILL rust over time. depending on how much water, salt water & scratches it sees/gets.

Happy iO!

01 ZR LWB, 2 sets of kumho KL71s on rims, custom one off belly plate, lukey sports exhaust and a right foot to suit!

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #4
My Inspiration

Hey guys!

Thanks for the quick replies and sorry I've taken so long to post. But everythingas been so helpfull so thankyou!

I'm still paying back the money I borrowed from my parents to get this car (my old car didn't get anywhere near what I was expecting! sad), but I'm planning on starting my modifications during my uni break in July.

So far I've decided to replace the front struts and get front and rear lifted king springs. I'll also be ordering and installing a bash plate. Probably still in the 3mm stainless, but still considering my options.

Anyway, I thought I'd post a photo of my grandfathers iO which really was my inspiration to get an iO. Its a 2L 2002 3dr model and hes done over 250,000kms in it!! He has been literally all over Australlia in it: Kimberlies, Cape York, Simpson Dessert, Tanimi, Tassie and Flinders just to name a few! (not bad for an 80y/o!) The car has taken a serious beating, but somehow its still running! (Just!) Its his pride and joy.

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #5
Lifts, racks and awnings

Hi guys!

I have finally given my iO some lift. I added 30mm lifted king springs tot he front and back. Its safe to say that I am very happy with the result! I've just been up to the Gawler Ranges and could definately notice the extra height, making it easily over obsticles I would preiviously have scraped the bottomn on.

I have also installed some heavy duty rola racks. They were mainly just so that I could install an awning, but I have also added a basket for extra storage. I was originally going to get a cheap awning from tigerz11 but after 3 weeks of waiting I decided to cancel my order... well apparently it wasn't that easy! On the phone they told me that they couldn't work our if my order had been posted yet so they would need to contact me back and they never did. I have also sent several emails non of which I got a response to. It has now been over a month and I have still not gotten my money back or the awning! I wouldn't strongly recomend not ever buying from tigerz11 after my experience with them...

On a brighter side, I managed to get an iron man awning from a local 4x4 shop and have to say that I am thrilled with it! It is double the price but totally worth it if you are a camper like myself. The awning comes with a built in LED light bar that provides more than enough light at night and it very sturdy! I have to say the awning is probably the best thing I've added to my iO so far!

On the trip I noticed that my rear shocks were pretty worn out as the rear of the car was bottoming out constatly over large bumps. When replacing the springs, I could tell that my front strus were not stock (newish KYB ones) whereas the rear shocks were. I just want to know what options I have for replacing the rear shocks, is it just the KYB ones or are there other ones I can get in Australia that would be better suited for 4x4ing? I do carry a lot of weight in the back so would like something I know is up for it.

The following photos are of my Gawler Ranges trip. I went with my grandfather and my girlfriend. We first did the Googs track, then travelled into tghe ranges camping at Koaly Hut. (for anyone who knows the area). There had been tonnes of rain before hand, so the tracks were muddy and there was plently of water! Unfortunatlely, my grandfather left a day earlier and on the last night my girlfriend and I managed to get bogged 10km away from camp... I was getting a bit over confident and took the car through some ruts that were just a bit too deep... The whole car completely bottomed out and was just sitting on the cross member! I could turn three wheels with my hands! There was no way we were every going to dig ourselves out... It took 23 hours until another car passed us and pulled us out!! It was a very very long night spent sleeping in the car... 

So the next thing on the list is some high profile AT's! I'm currently looking for 225/75/16, any suggestions?

 

fordem
  • Online Status: Online
  • Joined: 19/06/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #6
Rear shocks.

b-e-n-c wrote:
On the trip I noticed that my rear shocks were pretty worn out as the rear of the car was bottoming out constatly over large bumps. When replacing the springs, I could tell that my front strus were not stock (newish KYB ones) whereas the rear shocks were. I just want to know what options I have for replacing the rear shocks, is it just the KYB ones or are there other ones I can get in Australia that would be better suited for 4x4ing? I do carry a lot of weight in the back so would like something I know is up for it.

I'm not going to tell you that your rear shocks aren't worn out, but, I don't think that worn shocks are the cause of the car "bottoming out" constantly - that's either worn or overloaded springs.

The springs support the weight, the shocks control the movement - if the springs are weak or overloaded, the car will sit lower, closer to the bumpstops and will bottom out - if the shocks are weak or worn, the back of the car will display a tendency to bounce.

Ideally you want a longer travel shock if you have lifted springs - ask the manufacturer of the lift springs what they recommend - if they don't have a recommendation you can use stock length shock with an extension or relocator bracket - if the Monroe Adventure series are available in Australia, take a look at them - they are a 4x4 specific shock and they do a standard length rear shock for the iO which is what I am using on mine.

simmo777
simmo777's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 01/11/2012
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #7
Roof Racks!!

mate can you shed some light on where you got your roof racks from? Basket and all!!

Very keen to grab an awning and set up just like yours looks like! My universal roof racks are clip on to the mountings and I would much rather some like yours that grib

2002 5dr Pajero IO QA 2.0L Auto - Lifted, Locked!! 1.925 Low Range - Muddies (205/80/16) - Redback Extractors to 200cell cat to dump at diff Exhaust 

bob_oz
bob_oz's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 31/03/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #8
.. I was getting a bit over

.. I was getting a bit over confident and took the car through some ruts that were just a bit too deep... The whole car completely bottomed out and was just sitting on the cross member! I could turn three wheels with my hands! There was no way we were every going to dig ourselves out... It took 23 hours until another car passed us and pulled us out!! It was a very very long night spent sleeping in the car...

So the next thing on the list is some high profile AT's! I'm currently looking for 225/75/16, any suggestions?

Damn - that is no fun at all and I'm sure you GF would not have been happy. I'd go something average - most 225-75-16's are designed for patrols etc and we just don't put enough weight on them to overload them.

 

.

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #9
.

Simmo, I got the racks from an eBay seller called "Kay man auctions" he also has a website http://www.kayman.com.au/content/Home. He didn't have the ones I wanted displayed on the site, but I sent him an email and he was able to organise it for me. The part number is CRM03-2, and they were $299 delivered which I thought was pretty good. I thought he was a pretty good seller and definately recommend him. As for the basket, its my dads, I just had to get the mounts for it from roof rack world. But I have seen them in a few shops (supercheap for example) and they seem to be pretty cheap (around $150). The awning is $295 and you can just contact ironman to find the nearest stockist (make sure you tell them you're after the awning).

Bob, it was a pretty rough night... But my GF seemed to deal with it all pretty well this isn't the first time we've been stuck for a long period of time... (last time was in my old corrolla and she was driving!!). For the tires, are you recommending getting something smaller?

Fordem, I understand what you are saying and was also experiencing a lot more 'bounce'. As for the bottoming out, the springs are brand new heavy duty king springs so they couldn't possibly be worn. I did have a bit of weight in the back, but I wouldn't have considered anything extreme... I have been trying to find a supplier for the monroes but haven't had any success so far... I might send them an email. I have found a supplier for the Koni Heavy tracks but they are more than double the price of the KYB's so still not sure.

simmo777
simmo777's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 01/11/2012
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #10
Racks racks racks

b-e-n-c wrote:

Simmo, I got the racks from an eBay seller called "Kay man auctions" he also has a website http://www.kayman.com.au/content/Home. He didn't have the ones I wanted displayed on the site, but I sent him an email and he was able to organise it for me. The part number is CRM03-2, and they were $299 delivered which I thought was pretty good. I thought he was a pretty good seller and definately recommend him. As for the basket, its my dads, I just had to get the mounts for it from roof rack world. But I have seen them in a few shops (supercheap for example) and they seem to be pretty cheap (around $150). The awning is $295 and you can just contact ironman to find the nearest stockist (make sure you tell them you're after the awning).

 

Would you be able to post here or inbox me on some pics of your roof rack up close and how it mounts to the car and awning!??

And is the link below the one you have, I don't like my current style that hook under the top of the door frame much rather what you have with the parallel guide rails.

http://www.kayman.com.au/product/997

 

Also sucks you had such a bad experience with Tigerz11 :( My father has one on his FJ cruiser and everyone in his forum does as well!! But then again we live in Brisbane and have distributors readily available within a 20 minute drive! I already have a contact with tigerz11 who I will go through for an awning.

2002 5dr Pajero IO QA 2.0L Auto - Lifted, Locked!! 1.925 Low Range - Muddies (205/80/16) - Redback Extractors to 200cell cat to dump at diff Exhaust 

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #11
My racks

They aren't my racks, mine are rola racks CRM03-2.
Here's a link the the fitting instructions, I'll post photos when I get home. The instructions give a pretty good illustration as to how the racks are mounted, it's a really easy job.
http://www.rola.com.au/FittingInstructions/CRM_RME_RMEX/342%20Issue%20H%...

NZIO
NZIO's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 07/08/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #12
'Bottoming out'

Hiya Ben, I haven't read the whole thread but might your bottoming out actually be topping out? If you've lifted 30mm without changing the shocks you've got 30mm less downward travel which is very likely to give a thump every time you bounce over something.

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #13
Rack photos and thumping

Simmo, I hope these photos make it a little clearer how the awning and racks have been mounted.

The racks simply hook onto the ancor points that are located along the gutters of the car, I was at first hesistant about the strength of this, but once the racks are all screwed firmly in place, there is no movement at all and they feel very sturdy.

To mount the awning you just need to drill some holes into the racks (they are designed for things like this) and the L-shaped bracket that holds the awning is just bolted on. This video provides a pretty good description of the mounting process:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XIVAB7AJws

NZIO, I think you might be right. Although would the thumping happen when the car bounces up or down? Because I'm pretty sure mine is happening on the down... What shocks can I get to fix this? The Koni ones say they will work with both lifted and standard.

singlecell
singlecell's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 06/07/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #14
odd.

I was going to say it looks a bit odd sticking up like that but i notice in a previous picture that when a cage is fitted it looks alright.

I do have a question, is there any particular reason you put it on the passenger side?  I have noticed most people do and as I am about to fit an awning onto my racks I am interested to know.

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #15
passenger side

The reason I mounted it to the passenger side is because of how the back door opens. It swings open facing toward the passenger side meaning you'll have to do less walking away from the cover of the awning to get gear from the back.

singlecell
singlecell's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 06/07/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #16
Obvious!

b-e-n-c wrote:

The reason I mounted it to the passenger side is because of how the back door opens. It swings open facing toward the passenger side meaning you'll have to do less walking away from the cover of the awning to get gear from the back.

Of course, obviously really, lucky I asked or I would not have noticed until I was set up at camp!

 

fordem
  • Online Status: Online
  • Joined: 19/06/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #17
Another reason the passenger side is commonly used ...

It's quite common to see the awning mounted on the passenger side - one reason is if you're making a quick roadside stop (say for lunch), is that it opens away from the road.

Another option - is "Fred's arm"

http://www.blackwidow4wdstorage.com/fredsarm.htm

simmo777
simmo777's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 01/11/2012
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #18
Cheers

b-e-n-c wrote:

Simmo, I hope these photos make it a little clearer how the awning and racks have been mounted.

The racks simply hook onto the ancor points that are located along the gutters of the car, I was at first hesistant about the strength of this, but once the racks are all screwed firmly in place, there is no movement at all and they feel very sturdy.

To mount the awning you just need to drill some holes into the racks (they are designed for things like this) and the L-shaped bracket that holds the awning is just bolted on. This video provides a pretty good description of the mounting process:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XIVAB7AJws

NZIO, I think you might be right. Although would the thumping happen when the car bounces up or down? Because I'm pretty sure mine is happening on the down... What shocks can I get to fix this? The Koni ones say they will work with both lifted and standard.

 

Yeah no cheers man! I had a little squiz around those websites at the rola racks and saw a few videos and now your pictures confirm how I thought they were :D Definetly keener on hooking into those ancor points rather then the top door wells!

I have emailed the people at kayman and are awaiting a reply :) 

Thanks for the pics! 

2002 5dr Pajero IO QA 2.0L Auto - Lifted, Locked!! 1.925 Low Range - Muddies (205/80/16) - Redback Extractors to 200cell cat to dump at diff Exhaust 

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #19
updates

Hey guys!

Here's a picture of the io on my recent trip to robe. In it, you can pretty much see everything I've done since my last post so lets get straight into it!

Whats I've done:

  • Bash plate installed - huge thanks to Bob for having it made and sending it down!!
  • UHF installed - got a 5W Icom unit with 6db anntenna, was a must after last trips misfortunes!
  • got a GoPro for my birthday
  • got a 45L fridge with a 60AH thumper battery to power it - made camping SOO much more comfortable and the thumper is a great alternative to a dual battery system which is very difficult in the iO.
  • Got some maxtrax - they were a lifesave in the soft sand and my tiny tyres.
  • Fixed the thumping problem, was due to a lack of bump stop that fell out when replacing the springs and I was assured it wouldn't make a difference by my brother....Well it did -___-

On the todo list:

  • BIGGER TYRES!! My pathetic road tyres are simply no good and I'm more than ready for some proper of road tyres. Looking at getting some 225/75/16 AT's and probably Mickey Tohmpsons, will be getting them soon after christmas
  • Secondary tank to replace the rear muffler (and the muffler moved), have been quoted around $1000 for the complete job done
  • rear draw system, my girlfriends dad is making one for me
  • Better roof storage, not happy with the econamy I'm getting with the current system
  • Better lighting setup, possibly an LED bar not sure
bob_oz
bob_oz's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 31/03/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #20
update - wow!

b-e-n-c wrote:

Hey guys!

Here's a picture of the io on my recent trip to robe. In it, you can pretty much see everything I've done since my last post so lets get straight into it!

Whats I've done:

  • Bash plate installed - huge thanks to Bob for having it made and sending it down!!
  • UHF installed - got a 5W Icom unit with 6db anntenna, was a must after last trips misfortunes!
  • got a GoPro for my birthday
  • got a 45L fridge with a 60AH thumper battery to power it - made camping SOO much more comfortable and the thumper is a great alternative to a dual battery system which is very difficult in the iO.
  • Got some maxtrax - they were a lifesave in the soft sand and my tiny tyres.
  • Fixed the thumping problem, was due to a lack of bump stop that fell out when replacing the springs and I was assured it wouldn't make a difference by my brother....Well it did -___-

On the todo list:

  • BIGGER TYRES!! My pathetic road tyres are simply no good and I'm more than ready for some proper of road tyres. Looking at getting some 225/75/16 AT's and probably Mickey Tohmpsons, will be getting them soon after christmas
  • Secondary tank to replace the rear muffler (and the muffler moved), have been quoted around $1000 for the complete job done
  • rear draw system, my girlfriends dad is making one for me
  • Better roof storage, not happy with the econamy I'm getting with the current system
  • Better lighting setup, possibly an LED bar not sure

fantastic effort!!

keen to see your fridge/drawers system when you get it in.

unfortunatly the only way to improve the economy of the roof storage is to put it inside the car or on the spare wheel - roof mounts ALWAYS drain fuel no matter how expensive - er - i meant streamlined, they are.

rear tank is looking good - I'm sussing out the filler neck design currently - hopefully we can get some serious designs and quotes shortly. My SWB will easily take 38L, I recon your LWB will be near on 50L under the rear floor - amazing!

.

bob_oz
bob_oz's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 31/03/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #21
front bar mounts

.. i am also desperate to get a plan/copy of your front nudge bar mounts - mine is the same mount but my bar didn't come with the chassis mounts :(

.

Claude io
Claude io's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 11/10/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #22
trip

Very nice picture, all prepared....

Happy io

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #23
Thanks Bob!

Yes, I'm very keen about the draw system too! At the moment, its not going to include a fridge slide, I have been sitting the fridge at the rear left door for easy access under the awning. It will feature two large draws along the boot with a compartment for thumper ontop, I'm also planning on adding some sort of jerry can mounts above the draws, but will wait until they've been made and assess my options.

I totaly understand that roof storage will always affect econamy, but surely a deflector or something would help? I feel like the bag is parachuting at the moment, its adding and extra 3L/100km to my normal econamy!

I wish I could help you with the bar but I don't really know much about it, it was on the car when I bought it. All I know is that it was made by ECB as that's what the sticker on it says! I can provide photos, just let me know what of :)

Cheers Claude! My setup just keeps getting better with every trip!

Claude io
Claude io's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 11/10/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #24
deflector

Never had anything that big on my roof but I would think that a deflector would be worth a try.

The extra weight will definitely increase the fuel consumption.

This is what I personally found to help with fuel consumption :  

  • I would increase a bit the tyre pressure (more true with extra load, than over wise) 
  • Make sure you have a very clean air filter too. The air inlet is restrictive on this car, and it is important to replace the filter often. A dirty air filter will make the engine struggle a lot more, and drink a lot more when under load (4x4, extra weight, towing...)  especially true on this car. (I have tested this, 110% real....BIG difference)
  • Using the 98 octane fuel should help too, I found that I needed nearly 3 full tank before getting the full advantage of this fuel, don't ask me why ! I think that it could be related to the computer system, but I cannot explain it, still it does help.
  • Good spark plug, I am very happy with the iridium ngk
  • Some say that a good quality oil does make a difference, not sure....

Happy io

fordem
  • Online Status: Online
  • Joined: 19/06/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #25
Think twice ...

b-e-n-c wrote:

I'm also planning on adding some sort of jerry can mounts above the draws, but will wait until they've been made and assess my options.

Do you really want fuel storage inside the car, and above the rest of your stuff?  I'd rather put it underneath (long range sub tank where the main muffler is), out the back on some sort of rear bar mount, or on the roof - but for me inside is a major no-no.

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #26
advice

Cheers for the advice Claude, I should definately look at replacing the air filter and spark plugs :)

Is premium petrol really worth the extra price difference? I've never bothered with it before, but my brother swears it makes his car go faster :P

Fordem, I understand its not the best to keep feul inside the car, but I feel there isn't really another option. I've stored cans on the roof before and the whole trip I just didn't feel comfortable with it (you can see how they were stored on the second photo of the fith post). A rear bar mount would be great, but also expensive as I feel the rear door hinges are not strong enough to hold any extra weight. I'm planning on having a sub tank put in early next year, but even with that I like to keep atleast one can for emergencies. Personally, I feel more comfortable with the cans inside provided they are firmly secured.

Claude io
Claude io's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 11/10/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #27
fuel...and fuel ...

For the 98 octane, give it a try ! Take some number, fuel consumption before....as I said do 3 full fuel tank to get full result. Yes it is a bit more expensive. You will have a bit more power (don't expect a twin turbo !) and a bit better in fuel consumption, and this fuel got some additive that other fuel don't have. I wouldn't put anything else in my car.

Instead of replacing every thing in one go, just do one at a time, air filter first, later spark plug, later new fuel. This way you can see if one give you more result than the other.

The fuel inside the car can be a problem, I think that you understood this. I saw you fuel jerry can on your picture...not the best too. Super cheap have some 10 liter plastic one with lower profile. Not sure if plastic is the best way to go but the lower profile would fit better on you roof. http://www.supercheapauto.com.au/online-store/products/SCA-Jerry-Can-Fuel-10L-Flexi-Pourer.aspx?pid=326364#Cross

Happy io

Joe King
Joe King's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 27/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #28
Careful with the fuel on your roof rack.

Just a bit of a warning...

With roof racks that clip to those little mounts in your gutters, be careful how much weight you put in it and what you drive over. I had a 20L jerry in mine one day and while the weight  wasn't a problem, as soon as I hit the beach and the thing started bouncing, the roof racks came off the mounts at the back of the car. It wasn't the fault of the roof rack but the way they mount to those little hook things, they don't take kindly to upwards motion. This has happened a couple of times, the second time left some nasty scratches, so I've fitted completely new tracks to the roof and heavy duty crossbars.

Also, every now and then I put 98 octane in, I think it does boost performance and economy a little bit.

I find there are very few problems in life that can't be solved with a heavy pair of boots. That hill is no exception.
Stock standard '99 5 Door IO, with a few accessories and bling.

fordem
  • Online Status: Online
  • Joined: 19/06/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #29
Two things ...

On the 98 octane - the improvement depends on the vehicle and it's engine management system - Mitsubishi uses a fairly sophisticated management system which will reduce the ignition advance as required to prevent detonation if you use lower grades of fuel - conversely, if you use a higher grade of fuel it will advance the ignition to take advantage of it.

I'd say keep track of the numbers over a few tanks full and then decide if the cost benefit ratio warrants it - it's not an issue for me because we only get one grade of fuel here.

Gutter mount roof racks - these cars have no gutters per se - if you are using a gutter mount rack on a car with gutters my suggestion would be to modify the mounts using steel rod - find a piece with the appropriate diameter to fir in the gutter and weld it to the legs to increase the "load bearing area" of the mount - this reduces the probability of the gutter bending under the load.

Topher
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 04/02/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #30
Rear Bar & fuel storage

Im pretty sure its illegal to transport fuel inside a car..and I wouldnt do it anyways as gas's like acetylne can explode when kept inside a car, container etc etc...so yeah I wouldnt even consider it.

Im in the long process of making a rear bar...(iv decied to take up spearfishing which will come first :P) and if you diy..less than $500 easy. My "comp style" rear tube bar will cost less than $250. If you got a well known workshop to do it...you can get change from $1000. and you can have highlift jack points installed..more recovery points, lighting, fuel, shovel...you name it you can pretty much make it go on there!

Happy iO

01 ZR LWB, 2 sets of kumho KL71s on rims, custom one off belly plate, lukey sports exhaust and a right foot to suit!

b-e-n-c
b-e-n-c's picture
  • Online Status: Offline
  • Joined: 23/04/2013
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #31
Long time no speak...

Its been a while since I've made an update, but yes I still have my iO and am loving it more than ever!

I've done a few changes since my last posts:

1: 225/75/16 Muddies!

One of the things I've wanted most for my iO was bigger tyres, I was lucky enough to score Trophers wheels off his old iO! I am over the moon about them and they have compleately improved the capabilities of my iO! Both the extra clearance and better traction have made a huge difference. And as I bought the whole set of wheels, I can easily change back to my road tires when not on the tracks to preserve the life of the muddies!

2: Rear storage

As you can see, Phoebe and I pack the car pretty damn tight when we go away! (This was taken on our trip to Perth from Adelaide). I had her dad, a carpenter, make up some draws for me. They have been great! On this trip, I kept all my recovery gear and lighting in the left draw and drinks/pantry items in the right, it worked a treat! 

3: Nexus 7 instal

I've used the larger clock hood that the JDM iOs have to allow space for me to mount a nexus 7 tablet in place of the clock (and wired using the clocks power sorce!). I use the tablet day to day for music and GPS speedo but also have installed TomTom navigation for in town and Hema maps for off road. On our Perth trip Hema maps were invaluable as we were able to find plenty of fun tracks but also found so many campsites we didn't know existed! And managed to avoid the heafty WA national parks camping fees!

 

Future Plans:

In the very near future I'm going to attempt to change my timing belt myself as it is due... (yes not that exciting!)

I'm also very keen on getting a long range take installed just as Fabio has (and from the same guy!) I also want to have a custom snorkel made up. I'm heading to Cape York in July and I think that these two things are almost crucial!

One othe thing is I would love to have a roof top tent as I thing that would be so good for touring, but I am very aprahensive about how the iO might cope with one... I know that I will need to add proper roof rails as the current hooks definately would not be strong enough. What is everyones thoughts? Has anyone used a roof top tent on an iO before?

 

Thanks guys!

fordem
  • Online Status: Online
  • Joined: 19/06/2011
  • Posts:
  • Post Number: #32
No - but I wouldn't hesitate to fit one to my iO

b-e-n-c wrote:
 What is everyones thoughts? Has anyone used a roof top tent on an iO before? 

The potential problem area I see is the lack of a proper roof rack - on your iO - my car came with the factory fitted roof rails which I consider adequate.  A typical rating for that style of rail is 100kgs (dynamic loading), which is way less than the RTT and occupants will weigh, but, since you're not going to be in the tent with the vehicle in motion, that's neither here nor there (just make sure to park on a level surface) - the weight limits are low to reduce the impact on vehicle stability whilst in motion.

Both my vehicles (a 5dr iO and 5 dr GV) are fitted with factory rails and an aftermarket set of cross bars, and I have a cargo basket that gets switched from vehicle to vehicle as required - this setup has been used as a "photograper's stand" on multiple occasions and proven capable of accommodating the weight, so I wouldn't hesistate to try an RTT on either vehicle.

Be warned though - expect to take a hit on fuel consumption - the frontal area of the tent will have a significant impact on wind resistance, and the faster you drive, the bigger the hit.

Syndicate

Syndicate content

Translate This Site Into Your Language