Okay.... GPM steering time. First off I'd like to thank everyone that helped get GPM onto the crawling scene and especially the CC-01 scene. With GPM becoming a player in the CC-01 world only means they will soon see the rest of the crawling world.
I received my steering kit a few days ago but with the recent McNugget drama, I put it on hold for the install. So, today I took a break from nugget mania and sat down with the CC-01 rig.
First up... Could they use more tape to secure the package? Crap. Second... how can the Chinese write their letters/words in that small of a space and still understand what it says. I could only make out my name.
Pictures and some captions.....
I received the black anodized version.
After looking at the hardware included, I decided to use my own. I can't stand phillips head screws.
Here's the pile I started with...
Lower suspension off and look at how nasty it is under there!:mrgreen:
Underside installed and almost finished up. That black color lacks the bling factor... that's alright, I'm not a flashy guy.
First problem. Using the stock mounting hardware that came with the Pajero on the GPM steering, I seem to be short for connecting the tie-rod to the knuckle when the suspension was fully compressed. Although not a huge problem, it was a bit of a let down for being a bolt-on kit.
Simple spacer work solved the problem.....
Up top shot with everything back in place.....
Final thoughts....
For some, upon receiving this kit, you'll be upset that instructions for install were not included. A little messing around and you'll figure it out. I'd also recommend looking at the ones who have finished the install to see the proper way to install.
The misalignment between the tie-rod and knuckle bothered me a bit but then I remembered why I love this part of the hobby so much... you have to build along with install. I am also running non-factory parts mixed with different manufactures parts... I should have problems with parts not fitting properly.
One of the best things about this kit is now my little rig is able to turn it's wheels even when the front suspension is flexed in different directions. Before with the stock plastic setup, it's strain to move when the rig was flexed. Now, it turns like it was meant too. This is great. Now when crawling over a rock, I can turn when needed.
Is this a good buy? HELL YEAH!!! for less than $20 shipped you get a ball bearing steering that pretty much bolts into place. Parts are very good quality. Install is okay since you have to guess at how it all goes together. Communication between the customer and GPM is by far the best I've ever experienced. If you have to do one upgrade to your own CC-01, this is the must have upgrade.