Reader: I own an '04 Hummer H2 and would like to know if there are any aftermarket goodies to get better mileage. According to information I've read, the factory clutch fan can be replaced with an electric fan and about a 2-mpg increase can be achieved. I've also read that a spacer at the intake can be installed and more mileage can be gained.
Out of Gas
Black Creek, NC
Editor: We hate to break the news, but the H2 is a major-league gas hog. Yes, you will derive some mileage benefit from an electric fan, but how much, we couldn't say-given the H2's bulk, we'd guess not much. If you're looking for truly substantial gains in mileage, you've basically got two choices: either consider a Duramax diesel conversion, which can get you 20-plus mpg but which will also require you to swap transmissions (and spend a small fortune); or trade in your H2 for a more mileage-conscious fullsize SUV like the new Tahoe/Yukon.
Reader: I'm a 17-year-old looking to buy a four-wheel drive. Do not mistake me for the typical dumbass teen who writes in about such things-I'm highly versed in the subject and all its aspects (lockers, EFI, axles, transfer cases, and so on) and techniques, among others (but being an avid reader since 1999, why wouldn't I be?). So down to the point. I'm considering either a Land Rover Disco Series 1, a '93-'97 Jeep Grand Cherokee, or a '91-'95 Toyota 4Runner as these are the three most adhering to my guidelines. I plan on slight modifications in every case-more aggressive tires (roughly the same size as stock), a rear locker, and some fender trimming/bumper alterations, along with the assorted recovery gear. What I'd like to know is, which of these will be the most capable on the trail in stock form, and with the modifications mentioned? Being so young, things such as "interior amenities," "rough ride," and similar things are of almost no concern. All I care about is capability in the rough stuff, so just give it to me straight.
Jarred Crowe
via fourwheeler.com
Editor: Sounds like you've done your homework. For basic trail duties, it would be hard to go wrong with any of the midsize SUVs you're considering-they're all quite capable in stock trim, and all lend themselves well to minor modifications. Our opinion? If you're looking for economy and great daily-driver manners as well as trailablity, go with the Toyota. If you want solid axles and V-8 power, take the Jeep with the 5.2. If you want the best pure mountain goat of the lot, we'd likely opt for the Land Rover, with one caveat: Be prepared to pay considerably more for a used Discovery in good condition-and for Land Rover replacement parts-than you would for the other rigs of like vintage.
Reader: I'm buying a truck to be the tow rig for my '78 Blazer, which has the standard Dana 60, 14-bolt, NP203/205, and big-tire setup. The tow rig will also have to be a vehicle that can fill the in-town commuter role for me. I'm leaning heavily toward the Nissan Titan with the big tow package. However, I've read about the rear axle being a little iffy and the brakes shuddering badly. Would you recommend the Titan as a regular 9,000-pound hauler?
Also, how would someone go about submitting an article?
R. Gregg Contreras
Konowa, OK
Editor: Truth to tell, we'd probably recommend using your Blazer to tow the Titan instead. Don't get us wrong, we absolutely love the Nissan-we've built two of 'em as projects in the past year-but in our experience, the Titan's Dana 44-spec rear axle is its weakest link for seriously heavy-duty towing chores. For your kind of towing, we'd recommend a plain old 3/4-ton Dodge, Ford, or GM pickup with 1-ton running gear and an HD towing package-and if you can afford to pony up the extra cash for a Cummins/Duramax/Powerstroke diesel option, do it. Nothing beats a diesel for flat-out haulability.
Wanna submit an article? We're always on the lookout for good tech, tests, and travel. The best way to start would be to contact us with a story proposal at fourwheelereditor@sourcerinterlink.com. Briefly describe what you'd like to submit, and explain why you think it would be of interest to our readers. If we like your idea, we'll give you the green light.
Reader: The vehicle pictured in "Wicked Wheeling at Work" ("Readers' Rigs," Apr. '06) is not a 637 Caterpillar! Cat 637s have a front and a rear motor (four-wheel drive) and do not have an auger. The scraper pictured is a 625 Caterpillar Auger (two-wheel drive). You can clearly see the auger in the picture. I have run both machines, and I just think someone didn't know what they were talking about when they gave you the info on the machine. Oh, and the tires on a 637 are in the neighborhood of 6 1/2 feet tall. Still love your articles, and keep up the great work!!
Mark Woolard
via fourwheeler.com