Rock Crawler Build - E53 3.0L

[Skyline]

Originally Posted by Sarek

Skyline still misses the point. It is a good platform to start with. I have proven this to myself with a stock 3.0 on the trails here. The point is to have a challenge. Anyone with some cash can modify a jeep ect. I like the idea that people like Skyline doubt me.
Maybe skyline needs to take the Off Road Course at the BMW performance center in spartanburg sc. Hmmmmm.... "one of the worst platforms". Pretty bold statement. Wonder why BMW tests them this way if they are so terrible. They obviously put this in the design concept of the x5...
U see all those jeeps in my previous picture. They dont let fords on their property... for some reason they keep inviting me back..

There is NO part of an X5 that makes it a good platform to start with, that was my only point. But I have NO doubt that you can make your X5 a decent off roader. Many of the weak points I already mentioned will be VERY hard and VERY expensive to overcome. I hope you have access to a good fabrication and machine shop, as you're going to need it. I do think it is cool to do, my comments are coming from the practicality side.

As far as how BMW tests them, that course is specifically designed to respect the limitations of the vehicle, and sure, I'd bet that it surprises some soccer moms as to it's capabilities. But I would bet money that none of the water holes take it to a depth past 18" to put the ABS module under water. Or have big rocks on a steep upgrade that would require a low range, etc. This does NOT reflect real world off-roading.