The question Mark Hanson of Claremore, Oklahoma, is asked most is, "What is that?" Whether they're referring to the front headlights, the laser-cut bats on the winch mount, or just the whole vehicle, not many people seem to understand what they're looking at. So, we'll try to shed some light. The headlights are out of a Nissan N/X car. The bats are because Mark's hobby as a spelunker (one of those wackos who rappels down caves) brings him in contact with lots of bats--plus the rig kind of has a batlike look. And finally, this bad-ass rig is what's left of an '82 Toyota pickup, although you probably wouldn't know it from first glance.
We dig the way those boys down in Oklahoma think. Most of the rigs we see from there read like a who's who of heavy, indestructible equipment. That this rig is no different should serve as no surprise considering that Mark works at Wagoneer Machine Shop in Claremore. He listed his occupation as "beast builder" and we believe him. From the 44-inch Swampers up to the external cage, this animal is set to take no prisoners.
We found Mark at Moab and snapped some photos, while 4wheeloffroad.com has tons of video action. You can also check out Wendy Frazier's article "Uncommon Grounds" next month to see the type of wheeling these guys do in their backyard.
The front suspension is a three-link design that employs bent lower links for ground clearance and a wishbone upper. Because the steering is hydraulic, there's no need for a Panhard rod to prevent bumpsteer. The front springs are 3-inch Superlift units for a Cherokee. | 
The headlights are from a Nissan N/X car and the bats are from Mark's nightmares. OK, bats probably don't bother him, but with a hobby as deadly as spelunking, we can understand why he can wheel with such fearlessness up on the surface. |
Because Mark is an employee of Wagoneer Machine Shop, it should come as no surprise that his Toyota is replete with the company's extra-heavy-duty parts. The front axle is a full-width Chevy Dana 60 with a WMS heavy-duty cover, 4.88 gears, and an ARB locker. Steering is via a hydraulic ram. | |