Some guys just can’t own enough off-road machines. Anthony Miller of Billings, Montana, is one of those. A longtime Jeep owner, he fulfilled his quest for a rig a little bit different when he ran across this retired ’88 W.E.ROCK Samurai buggy.
He couldn’t resist the deal for the lightweight tube buggy, so he snatched it up for more family fun.
The buggy’s ride is damped...
The buggy’s ride is damped by BDS long-travel shocks in the front and Fox 21⁄2-inch air shocks in the rear. The rear of the 98-inch wheelbased rig has a basket designed into it to hold the fuel cell and carry gear for a day on the trail.
The 4x4 is a rig Anthony can hit hardcore trials with and not worry about dents or rollovers. Since the purchase and with a number of modifications, the little tubed Sami has wheeled without a hitch just about every trail in Moab and many other tough ones in Montana, Wyoming, and California.
The 1.6L engine was scavenged...
The 1.6L engine was scavenged from a ’92 Suzuki Sidekick and cranks out more than enough power to push and pull the 2,000-pound buggy over just about any obstacles. Anthony tells us that the little engine has run like a top ever since its installation and has been extremely dependable.
1.6L Suzuki Sidekick
Transmission: Stock 5-speed manual
Transfer case: Dual Samurai transfer cases with doubler
Front Axle: Dana 44, 5.89 gears, ARB Air Locker
Rear Axle: Dana 44, 5.89 gears, spool
Suspension
Springs & Such: 4-link front and rear, coil springs, BDS and Fox shocks
Tires & Wheels: 37x12.5R17 BFG Competition Krawlers on 17x8 Allied steel beadlocks
Steering: Howe fully hydraulic front and rear
Other Stuff: Ramsey 8,000-lb winch, Cobra CB radio
Under the front of the buggy...
Under the front of the buggy is a Dana 44 axle from a Jeep Wagoneer that’s stuffed with 5.89 gears and an ARB Air Locker. To assist steering and keep the 37-inch tires under control, a Howe fully hydraulic steering system was installed.
The Dana 44 Wagoneer axle...
The Dana 44 Wagoneer axle in the rear is also fitted with 5.89 gears and a dependable spool for traction. The axle is also set up with Howe hydro steering, making the already nimble buggy even more agile and capable.
The two-seater buggy was built...
The two-seater buggy was built with 2x0.120-wall DOM tubing for strength and durability. The minimalist interior is fitted with Corbeau seats and harnesses for comfort and safety.