Rock Sliders - Freaky Tree Fab

[Trail X]

So, I've got a guy interested in producing rock sliders for the TrailBlazer. Today we did a test fitment + measuring session for the frame connectors.

So, as a teaser, I figured I'd post up some pictures from this morning.



It's along the same lines as some of the other sliders I have seen, but Eric (pictured below) wanted to have some fun with it. So I let his imagination run. He came up with the tapered ends that fit the body lines of the truck perfectly. So far it's tacked together, as Eric wanted to make sure fitment was correct.



Another view of the tapered end:



While I was there, we measured up and tacked in the frame connectors. There will be 3 on Eric's design.



So, Eric's going to finish welding it tonight and grind them down all pretty. Then it will be in the hands of the powdercoater. After that, I'll just have to drive down after work and get them welded in. :woot:

Eric hasn't set a price yet, and the powdercoating will be an extra 150-200. Once I know a price, I'll let you all know. He also said he would do free installation for anyone that would drive to his shop near DC. I will say, Eric is a genuinely nice guy and will go out of his way for you. So I hope he is able to make some future sales from our group.


I'll be sure to include lots of pictures and the cost of the final product once they are installed. :woohoo: Gosh I can't wait!

[Trail X]

Fresh powdercoat! Yum! Eric is prepping the sliders for the welding. The powdercoat looks quite tough, as it took him a few passes with the grinder before getting to bare metal.



Prepping the frame for welding:



Welding the sliders on... it took a bit of time, but Eric wanted it done right. He was very meticulous with his work. He's a certified structural welder and really knew what he was doing.



The welded on frame gussets (they were painted later to prevent rusting):



View from below of the installed slider.



Top view of the slider. It fits the vehicle lines perfectly.



Load test. Loading the outside beam with the (almost) full weight of the left side. ~1/4" of deflection



Eric is willing to do some sort of group purchase price for an initial batch. The details haven't been worked out yet though. I'll report back when I know prices and details of his offer.

Thoughts?

[Trail X]

Alright guys!

$595.00 includes fabrication, powdercoat, and install of the sliders!

Install is in Manassas, VA or Burtonsville, MD.

Eric can also ship the sliders to you, but there is no discount for not having them installed by Eric.

Email him at eric@freakytreeoffroad.com to set up a purchase. Make sure you mention me by name to get the special discounted price!

As I said before, Eric is a great guy who really puts a lot of effort forth to produce a quality product. He's gone out on a limb here to support us and designed a VERY nice product for us. Lets try to show our support in return!

[Trail X]

In case anyone is curious again, and is making their own sliders, I posted the basic dimensions of my sliders on the OS:

(so I figured it deserved a repost here, with the relevant content)

[Mooseknuckle]

just curious how much would the sliders be not powder coated ?

[Trail X]

I think PC was around $150. You can contact him, but I doubt he still has the drawings for these. He may, who knows.

[Mooseknuckle]

Damn ok. I'm trying to get these and mounted before TECORE. I will give him a call

[snowmirage]

If anything came of this or if you hear anything let us know I am also considering doing this soon.

[Trail X]

Brandon, contact Eric directly if you are interested. His email is listed above. I haven't seen Eric in about 6 months, but I understand he's still doing fabrication. It might just take a couple trips down to his shop to get it done. They are rather expensive though. The trailgear sliders (I think that's the brand) would sure save you some money.

[Rickalicka18]

James, I know this thread is very old, but are these still available to buy?