Transforming a Vue

[Rook]

 I have access to a 2003 Saturn Vue, and I'm thinking about doing a complete overhaul. I know AWD is nothing like good ole 4x4, but you take what you can get.. It's stock and not in bad shape.. has a leak somewhere, but it doesnt seem to be the sunroof (could be wrong), and the carpet doesnt get wet, but the spare tire compartment fills up given enough rain. Ideally, I want to lay some all terrain tires on her, maybe apply spacers and do a slight cheap lift.. nothing much.. throw on some nerf bars.. a bullbar.. some overtop spotlights.. tear out the shitty carpet and upholstery and adhesively apply some nice vynl so I can just spray it out..

 Only one problem.. I want to do it on the cheap.. so.. I'm going to continue to do some research.. may post some pics when it isn't freezing outside. Anyone else have any experience retrofitting a vehicle into a more robust off-road esque type?

[MoaningLisa]

the saturn vue is the prequisite to the chevy equinox...its kindof a mom van, like a jeep liberty or something.

honestly, I'd sell it and spend that money on a real jeep or a samurai if you want to be different. geo tracker=cheap samurai.

[Rook]

 Shew I know.. I'm just stubborn. I actually like the Vue though, it's grown on me.. It handles curves like a beast.. not overly top heavy like jeep Cherokees (trust me.. I've rolled one of those).. The AWD capabilities is like a slightly less versatile in comparison to 4x4 when it comes to really extreme weather and condition, but what it lacks in the ability to climb in hellacious terrain.. it makes up in speedy semi-four wheel drive.. It's relatively small in comparison to most SUVS.. smaller than an equinox and van.. about on par with the Dodge Calibers.. but still plenty of room in the back. I dont really want to downgrade to an older vehicle unless I'm getting something with equal versatility and size..

 I like the Saurais and Geo trackers, but.. the market on them has been rising rapidly as people are converting them to offroad toys. I want my vehicle to be primarily on-road but with the appearance and capability for off-road escapades. The main problem about selling it and switching out.. the price of most vehicles are ridiculous right now, especially trucks and 4x4's because it's nearing winter time.. demand is up.

 Hopefully, I'll start progress on pimping out my Vue tomorrow.. I may switch out if opportunity arises, but you have to work with what you've got till then. By this time tomorrow, I'll have some fresh.. err.. used tires.. hey, its a start. Then if the battery doesnt charge after giving it a boost, I' going to hook it up on a slow charger. Basically the vehicle has been sitting for 6 months.. started about every two weeks via booster cables to keep the motor from locking.. also been consitent on keeping fluids in check in case anyone was wondering. Will possibly update tomorrow.

 Biggest thing I'm looking forward to though.. just throwing this out there.. is taking out that damn carpet.. Anyone else have experience putting down rubberized/vinyl flooring?

[MoaningLisa]

if you got it, rock it lol

it could be a pretty cool one-off if you do it right, I think it would look kickass with a roof rack, headache lights, debadged and sprayed in rinoliner.

on the carpet-DO NOT CUT IT OUT WITH A BOX CUTTER!! there are wires under the carpet and you will fuck shit up. take your time, do it right.

lizardskin is good stuff, but its expensive.

what motor is in it? the Honda V6?

post up some pics