1988.5 Suzuki Samurai Walk Around Some Great Ideas -Look

1988.5 Suzuki Samurai Walk Around
1.6L 16V engine
Power steering
Air conditioning
Clicky starter fix
Odyssey PC1230DT battery
High flow air kit
110 amp bolt on alternator
8 ga alt cable to a 12 ga fusible link
Custom CB antenna mount
Warn 8000lb winch
Flat tow ready
ProComp simulated beadlock wheels
3” LED dual cube pillar lights
39” LED light bar
LROR air scoop
Nerf bars
Rally fiberglass top with sliding windows and sun roof
Rocky Road Outfitters front and rear bumpers
LED lift gate light
Cobra 75 WX ST CB
Coga PA mic/speaker
Lev-o-gage Clinometer
PT Cruiser seats
Custom sleep platform
Custom trail table
OEM center console
Custom cup holder
Custom map pocket

[@whitelycan69]

I must say a round of applause should be given to you 👏👏👏👌👍. I had no idea there was a factory console. I have neon seats in my 88.5 but mine Doesn't lay down flat. Is that a special modification you did or a specific year of neon Seat.. And to all you haters of Re badging ...🖕🖕. Too meny times I've had dumb ass people say to me "hey nice (jeep)" Jeep? Really m.f.?!?!! Putting Mercedes Benz badges on it just confuses the brain dead people that much more...thus a much bigger personal laff factor.. Happy motoring 😁

[@merlyndaproductions]

THANK YOU! You get the MB badging. Regarding the folding seat. If I did it again I would get these. BOTH fold down. www.zuksoffroad.com/ZOR-Seat-Swap-the-BEST-SUPER-COMFY-brand-new-TC-seats-both-driver-and-passenger_p_220.html

[@whitelycan69]

@@merlyndaproductions oh an afterthought... I want ac and power stering in mine also but you can only run two accessories off the 1 3 and 1.6 engine that being said i have a super charger on mine.. Leaving only one more option ... Eather ac or power steering... Or so i thought. Then another youtuber put electric power steering in his.. A clever idea saving horsepower and gaining fuel-efficiency.. Suddenly my problems were solved by yet another youtuber now I can have 3 accessories with one not running off the engine at all.. Just thought I'd share the idea with another true Enthusiast... And thanks for the seat tip Again happy motoring 👍

[@merlyndaproductions]

Brilliant. Electric power steering. It’s so fun to imagine what you want and then make it happen. My seats are PT cruiser seats. Did you upgrade alternator? I used an overpriced but plug and play alternator from quality power auto or you can do the GM alternator swap. I like my alternator better. Great company. www.qualitypowerauto.com/item_312/Suzuki-Samurai.htm

[@whitelycan69]

@@merlyndaproductions yes Alternator bracket is from low range opera road altimeter is auto zone as well as the pig tail. Radiator is 3 row from low range off road along with screaming Eagle 44 mm carburetor and a 272 Cam. Crank pulley is trail tough with a little extra machining after it's arrivele.. It Dynoed around 250 hp but there is much more torque and horsepower to be had possibly 300 hp

[@merlyndaproductions]

Holy horsepower Batman! So are you running a 1.6L 8 valve with a turbo charger?

[@767dag]

Beautifully done... Minus the Mercedes badge

[@merlyndaproductions]

I know. Most people dislike the MB badge. But I like it. Thanks for viewing

[@jeffbrey123]

I love the badge actually! Makes it look like an old defender

[@luisrvf]

@@jeffbrey123 this doesn't makes sense, LAND ROVER Defender??

[@lalremruatasingson869]

Wow Suzuki Samurai, In India we called it Maruti Suzuki Gypsy... I still owe 2 of these 80s Models......Best for off-road in Mizoram

[@Gomera9143]

wow ... incredibly beautiful. I love Suzuki Samurai and this restoration is the most beautiful I have seen so far

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you!

[@marcjohnson493]

Great video! Loved most everything. Like you said it’s a walk around to give folks ideas. Thanks for sharing

[@gitarthap.bhuyan3100]

It is known as Maruti Suzuki Gypsy King in India. The interior is a tad bit different. Greatest petrol 4x4 ever to roll on the Indian roads in the 80's till today. The official car of the Indian Army. Massive respect for this car!

[@Josh1332_]

I’m so jealous! I have a 1991, and this is exactly what I envision it looking like.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Really? That’s so cool. The upgraded 16l motor (lol) made the most difference (1.6l 16v) Thanks for watching!

[@theyoutubeguymojo4201]

So much passion!! To me thats the most valuable quality in a person 👍👍👍

[@merlyndaproductions]

Awww. Thank you.

[@johnwilliamsommers2926]

Wonderful Video - congratulations on leading the way .. glorious result. thank you.

[@jeffbrey123]

I'm shocked how amazing this was! Truly incredible! Im very very jealous

[@alijaffri4332]

Golden era of cars 1988

[@WanderingDad]

You must have lived on a different planet than me in 1988. Samurai was great, but got better later with EFI. Then there was... what else was there?

[@WanderingDad]

Very nice. I now have to build one of those tailgate tables for my 87 tintop. But the fold flat seat is what I would kill for.

[@merlyndaproductions]

I don’t use the tailgate table as much as I thought I would. The fold down seat is the bees knees. The platform adds a lot of storage space. Plus the underneath keeps things out of view.

[@ErikFrydenlundclark]

This is inspirational for my build, thank you! I love the sleep board

[@CarChrisMC]

Still looks new, nice 🤙🏻 I own a 2019 Jimny GLX btw

[@eugenecourtney1778]

On the air scoop i got some wire from a old cricket bait container, and cut it to fit on the inside and gorilla glued it in to keep small bugs from getting in,, as well as small bits of leaves. Also used on the side vents. I sure wish i hadn't sold my daughters Tracker!!! Samurai has pressed metal back, welded in as well as the top,, side rails on either side with a Weber carb. at this time, Painted blue with pearl and metal flake.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Eugene Courtney ahhh, very clever about the air scoop. Funnest vehicle I ever had (Suzuki samurai). Thanks for viewing.

[@BlueBubbleBoii]

Nice car. Great job! I really want a car like this one

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you!

[@muffinquest]

Love it!!! Great Job!! Kudos :) Back up camera, great idea. I just love it.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thanks. I love your name!

[@Jose-ek1er]

That is one clean samurai!

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thanks for looking. Just posted for ideas for others

[@muhammadtahirfaiz5302]

Beautiful Samurai.👍👍 Here we call it "POTOHAR" in Pakistan. Back door and sunroof is really good. I am sure you will share its drive especially off road soon.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you Tahir!

[@MSIkris4x4]

Nice movie, greetings from Poland MSIkris 4x4

[@merlyndaproductions]

THANK YOU! I removed the MB badging. New grille, LED headlights, trash-a-roo and rotopax on spare tire. Next is GMRS radio

[@markmedley6849]

I love that car! It looks like a little G Wagon but it’s not so the symbol looks silly. It’s not needed. It’s a super cool car.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Mark, it looks totally different now. Different grille, halo lights, light bar, ditch lights, trash-a-roo bag, two robopax gas containers. NO MB DECALS ANYMORE.

[@Hugeroost]

all my buddies are into these fancy side by sides, easily have 30k in them. I would rather have a Sammy all fixed up at half the price, plus have AC and be able to drive it on the road

[@merlyndaproductions]

You so get it! Thanks for watching

[@sixteeners]

A well built Samurai. Great!

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you. With the 1.6L engine, air conditioning, and power steering it’s a joy to drive.

[@quintontillmon1620]

I respect this build. Well done.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you Q!

[@benc8640]

Awesome job on the build! I really liked the real badging on the rear view mirror :) I'm also really hoping someone would bring in the new Jimny to North America, suitably rebadged of course (GM, Toyota, Mitsubishi, anyone?)

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you for noticing the rear view mirror!!!!!!!

[@sarge27271]

Awesome little rig. The MB badges will make passerbys look twice. That's for sure. Had one. Bone stock. Could not believe where we drove that thing. Just won't quit. Good for you! Cheers

[@jackiecebu3328]

Be proud that it's a Suzuki and a wonderful build! Why trick the uninformed that it's a Merc when Suzuki made a fine SUV only to have it crushed because of a dishonest hit job by Consumer Reports.

[@sarge27271]

@@jackiecebu3328 I see it as a big fat finger in G Wagon owners eyes. Lol. Looks very similar, does a lot of the same, yet costs oodles less. Lol Cheers

[@jackiecebu3328]

@@sarge27271 I think G Wagon owners just laugh at fake stuff because they have the real thing. Nobody likes knockoffs! Imagine taking a classic Bronco and putting Land Rover badges all over it..

[@fujitsubo3323]

i like the badge, its your car you can do what you want with it thats the beautiful things about cars, other people don't have to like it. i have a 92 Samurai tin top and i fucking love it. i kind of wish i had a 1988 model like yours as thats my birth year. i love your car btw its so clean and a prime example.

[@jackiecebu3328]

True its your car and you can do what you want BUT.. would you put a Camaro badge on a classic Mustang and be proud of it? Everything is subjective, they did a great Suzuki build except with re badging it a Mercedes which dishonors it's Suzuki heritage by labeling it a Merc.

[@kelzpinero9293]

Messed it up with the Benz badge... Besides that 👌 tastefully done

[@merlyndaproductions]

I removed the MB spare tire -that was a bit much. Now I have a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers. Thanks for viewing :)

[@seeayechayeedee8438]

The merc badging is genius.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Ok. Finally someone who likes the MB badging!

[@Loyalwhiteknight]

That is one sweet looking Sammy! I'm looking to get one for myself to enjoy down in Moab, UT.

[@heymon02903]

Amazing mind blown and totally get the Mercedes badging wish my Sammy was nice enough for that

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you so much! You can make yours look nice too.

[@jackiecebu3328]

Beautiful SUV but why trick people into thinking it's a Mercedes? Be proud of your gorgeous Suzuki you did a wonderful job! Go buy some Samurai or Jimny badges and trash those Merc ones.

[@merlyndaproductions]

I did get rid of the Mercedes spare tire cover. That was a bit much. Now I have a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers. Hope to provide a camping video soon

[@jackiecebu3328]

Thank you for the video@@merlyndaproductions! I'm so jealous!! Please be proud of your Suzuki!! :)

[@666dynomax]

Sweet Little trucks

[@merlyndaproductions]

Yes! But the 2021 Ford Bronco looks sweeter

[@666dynomax]

@@merlyndaproductions well, it should for ten times the cash!!!! I like the new bronco only part i dislike is the engine lineup.. shoehorn a 5.0 in there and be DONE with it lol

[@toddstringer9009]

That’s a sweet ride!!

[@MannyG007]

Great job! It looks AMAZING! Thank you for your service! Quick question on your AC + power steering setup. Are you using RR outfitters AC Compatible Power Steering Conversion, which uses Toyota power steering setup? Thanks!

[@jupiterrising2267]

My wet dream Samie

[@robbygrey]

Love the video! Crazy how people can overlook all the awesome for a few things they just don’t agree with. I had hemi badges on my old Sammy and it was always funny getting people to think there was actually a hemi in it anyway great vid

[@merlyndaproductions]

YES -thank you for “getting it” I took the Mercedes spare wheel cover off. That was a bit much. I replaced it with a trash-a-roo and two rotopax containers.

[@deadhorse1391]

Nice video! I liked the Mercedes rebadge, funny I have been thinking about getting a Samurai, think it would be neat to rebadge it as a Mercedes then I saw your video. I would rather do it up as a military vehicle, maybe even a camo paint job, no offense but yours is to fancy for me. 😉 I bought an ‘87 samurai new, hard to believe how popular they were back then, seemed like every 2nd car was one. I rarely see one now Mine was a good car, great in snow

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thanks. Not understanding the MB trashing. I think it’s a bit cheeky. All my vehicles are fancy. I tried to keep one plain Jane. Can’t do it. My motorcycle turned into a show bike by the time I done.

[@mikesentra]

Amazing job, I love the paint job. let's see some video of you wheeling it!

[@vhdvlog]

Wow amazing

[@princewilliams8222]

I luv your samurai. ...

[@84chevota84JT]

Love the setup looks awesome. Where did you get thise lightbar mounts that uses the factory screw locations above windshield?

[@pythonplunger323]

Wow! Nice work, thanks for the list of gear below appreciate that, just picked up an 88' with a perfect body but rough interior thanks for all the pointers! Just super work, hope to see you in Wisconsin, btw I like your Mercedes badges.

[@merlyndaproductions]

Wow. Someone liked the MB badging. I need to make a new video. Removed MB badging, added trash-a-roo/rotopax containers on spare tire, new grille, LED halo lights, GMRS radio kzbin.info/www/bejne/j6DEZap_p7uXpsk

[@GRIBBO-77]

Love it

[@alfakrab6134]

Sickass ride!

[@sickfoo5506]

This thing is badass

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you SO MUCH! I got rid of MB spare tire (that was a bit much). Now I have a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers. Hope to post a camping video soon.

[@al3duart3]

Very nice

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thanks for viewing. I see there is another person who badged a Suzuki Samurai as a Mercedes on eBay.

[@every1bleedsthesame809]

Nice build I like it alot

[@every1bleedsthesame809]

Also thank you for your service!

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you SO MUCH for noticing the most important “badge”. Well done indeed

[@phuabnomhawjyaj8608]

Very nice Zuk! You need dual case, Toyota power steering, FJ80 for the rear and Toyota axle for the front, Isuzu spring and missing link shackle, tire 37"-38" and other add on. Overall your Samurai looks nice,

[@merlyndaproductions]

Nah. I don’t rock crawl or do heavy off roading. I go on ATV roads and lumber roads. I need a good balance between on and off road. Thanks for viewing.

[@767dag]

If your as hot as the suzuki, your drop dead gorgeous

[@merlyndaproductions]

Awww Thank you. I did remove the MB spare tire cover. That was a bit much. Now I have a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers. Hope to post a camping video sometime soon

[@chevy4life203]

16 Liter. Wowww they sure know how to package them in small places. Nice build tho

[@merlyndaproductions]

Embarrassing mistake. Hope to have an updated video soon. Thanks for viewing

[@An_D-ve8iy]

not bad at all I like it

[@ec6933]

This is incredible

[@manbro1610]

Hats off 👏

[@hotrodhawkins]

Very nice build! I now have it saved. Only question I have because I did not see it in the description was the lift? Can you tell me what you have to fit the tires and do you like it? Kudos to you on a great video and ride!

[@danieldoherty1749]

I bought a 1988 Suzuki Samurai at the end of last year. I assume that the 88.5 is most obvious with the dash? I think the later half 88 is when they changed from round 2 square vents? Mine is a Tin Top and after I get finished with a little bit of work to it I hope to do a walk-around video also. Mine's on 38s with Hydro steer it's never going to be a pavement Queen.

[@merlyndaproductions]

CONGRATS! The hard tops (tin tops) are rare. Discontinued (USA) in 1989. Here are differences in 1988.5: * softer suspension settings * a larger anti-sway bar to reduce body roll * a lower 5th gear (.865:1 vs the earlier .795:1) for increased engine rpm and power on the highway * a new aluminum radiator * a redesigned valve cover * larger transfer case U-joint flanges * round air vents to square ones with better integration of the radio. * a 4-spoke steering wheel vice the 3-spoke design * different seats and rubber shifter knobs * round-hole wheels * a slightly revised radiator grille

[@KamranHaider]

Nice ride, good job 👍🏻

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you! And thanks for not giving an opinion on the MB badging.

[@elwrencho8189]

Very nice well done Sami

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thanks for watching. I removed the Mercedes spare tire cover. That was a bit much. Now I have a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers.

[@trjb1767]

Beautiful!!

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you! 😊

[@magicalempire]

very nice car, i have an SJ410 which i am rebuilding

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thank you. My intent was just to give folks ideas what you can do. The PT cruiser fold down seat is really nice. The whole platform configuration is super functional. The 1.6l (not 16 liter) engine upgrade was a must for me. So was air conditioning. I also have power steering which probably isn’t needed. Mine cruises at 70 mph (paved road of course) No problem.

[@magicalempire]

@@merlyndaproductions great power steering is a must for offroad, my build can not go on the road

[@Agent.K.]

Poor mans G-class.

[@austin_brown]

Very nice!

[@giannicarlo]

Very very nice!

[@merlyndaproductions]

THANK YOU! Especially for not making fun of the 16L engine error and the MB badging. I did remove the the MB spare tire cover (that was a bit much). I replaced with a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers. Hope to do a remote camping video soon

[@user-wd5mx9ec3p]

Good lookin zook

[@thatcarguy9.379]

Like a lot of the things you did with it except the Mercedes badges

[@merlyndaproductions]

I replaced the MB spare tire cover (that was a bit much). Now I have a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers

[@corried5576]

That’s an awesome rig! Thanks for the great ideas. One question, what is the motor out of?

[@merlyndaproductions]

A 1995 geo tracker. I got rid of the MB spare tire cover. Thought it was a bit much. Replaced with a trash-a-roo and rotopax containers.

[@dontdoit6403]

Sweet sammy

[@mardiofficial3245]

Succes for you brother

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thanks for the visit

[@TJ-ln2bk]

Too good

[@krishilgersom8132]

Hi. Not sure you will see this but great looking Sammy. Couple things in there I’d like to try with my rebuild. Is your alternator swap a kit or did you find a direct bolt on? If so do you still have a part number? Thanks

[@merlyndaproductions]

An alternator upgrade is a great thing. The one I used is pricey. But direct bolt on. I had to get the sidekick one b/c of the 1.6L 16v engine swap. Here is a link. You can research. I did and decided Quality Power Auto was what I wanted. Others will recommend a GM alternator kit. But not enough amps for me. You can get 150 amp alternator from Quality Power Auto. www.qualitypowerauto.com/item_312/Suzuki-Samurai.htm

[@tdicml0752]

So cool.How much would cost all of this mods?

[@davidochoa2502]

I love your Suzuki, with all the badges and everything, Do you swap the engine? Because where I live comes with 1.3 twincam.

[@merlyndaproductions]

It came with a 1.3L engine. It was swapped out with 1.6L (not 16L) engine from a Geo Tracker. It goes 70 mph all day long. I wanted bigger engine, air conditioning, and power steering. I wish we could get the newest Suzuki Jimny here in USA. I did remove the spare tire cover (the MB decal was a bit much) and replaced it with a Trash-a-roo and rotopax containers. Thanks!

[@nini-th9px]

If you want some u can still get some in india under 3000$ good as new u can check on KZbin as Maruti gypsy original car was usually used by Indian military so manny people buy it and rebuild it and job is too good If you didn’t know all this give this comment big like thanks

[@henrycagle7827]

a-huh.... i had the same idea..... but the fold down pt cruzer aeat with a little magic .... warching the atqrs pass by.... very nice. MBZ starts at 120,000 usd samuri here about 45,000. your choice?

[@Z-Bart]

I like it. MB badges and all.

[@merlyndaproductions]

YES! Finally someone who doesn’t mind the badging. I mean I don’t like the transformer badging people do. But I accept that they do. Anyway, thanks Ray

[@clickbaitfishing7787]

I love your truck . I used to have a jimmy . In the uk you can find these old sj’s for about 1k £ do I need to buy some and export over to Uncle Sam?

[@merlyndaproductions]

Thanks! Even the MB badging and word blunders?

[@clickbaitfishing7787]

Merlynda Productions yes blunders and badges all loved . Ignore the perfectionists who have never made mistakes and like to point out everybody else’s . Don’t feed the trolls

[@merlyndaproductions]

Nice of you. Yes. This was my FIRST youtube video. Just sharing some ideas.

[@clickbaitfishing7787]

Merlynda Productions would be nice to see it on the trails .

[@evinsteven13]

Yes you should send some to us in the states. I would love one of the pickup models, or the long wheel base ones.

[@osahinmartinez3371]

What is the name of the sunroof top that is amazing

[@merlyndaproductions]

Rally Top. Here is link: www.rallytops.com/shop/suzuki-samurai-hardtop/

[@princewilliams8222]

Hw does the Jimmy compares ....?

[@gambitionio1]

you should make a drive test

[@merlyndaproductions]

I know! I need to make a trail/camping video. Thanks for viewing

[@JORDYRASTELLI]

How much? I have my checkbook ready!

[@mayradelgado3425]

Este modelo es igual al mio 1988 samurai jx,versión americano, Costa Rica 2022.

[@mahmutsapmaz5434]

Suzuki bu efsane modelin yeni versiyonundan tekrar üretse olmazmı bence çok iyi olur

[@traxoffgrid]

You did a wonderful job on the truck how does one get ahold of you I am buying one now and would like to talk to you about a few things

[@darwinramirez2323]

Amigo, aparte del motor tambien cambiaste la caja de velocidades? grupo de transmision? y que medidas son las llantas?

[@lucciermete4032]

Si puo acquistsre hartop x la mia suzuki santans sj 410 1988 grazie

[@jonathanmllernielsen1399]

Where did u get all these parts?

[@NocturnalPLUR]

Where did you get those nerf bars?

[@w8tng4nepiphany]

@ Merlynda Productions Where did you get your LED Quad Light bracket ? Please share !! thank you so much

[@merlyndaproductions]

I made them :)

[@keithlea6804]

Very nice. How does it sound? What lift do you have?

[@merlyndaproductions]

It’s the reverse shackle 2” suspension lift from Calmini. It’s the nicest riding samurai I have been in. I don’t rock crawl. I go on lumber roads and ATV trails (Sammy short enough to fit on ATV trails). Mostly needed lift for 1.6L engine.

[@maximuskhann5318]

Very nice build, its 1.6 litre, No offence, You said 16 Litre.🙂

[@merlyndaproductions]

I know. Obviously it’s the Suzuki 1.6L 16 valve engine. I should do an update video. I’ve removed the MB badging, new grille, LED headlights, etc. Oh, and no offense, but “offence” is mis-spelled. LOL

[@sootyvoo100]

Hopefully that thing doesn’t drive around in the winter time!!!! Or at least it’s been sold out of the rust belt states

[@juanbeltran3634]

Hey merlynda nice samurai for the P/T Cruser seats did you have to make a new brackets???thank you in advance

[@merlyndaproductions]

Yes. I needed new brackets got them here: www.zuksoffroad.com/ZOR-Seat-Adapters-ChyrslerDodge-to-Samurai_p_605.html If I did it again I would use Chrysler Town and Country mini van second row seats in 2010-2018 models. These fold down into cubes

[@torovalenzuela34]

Hello..anybody know exact model or name for rear tailgate led light this suki has??? ( min 3:50 of video) Thanks

[@merlyndaproductions]

No longer available. Maybe you can find similar. See link Under Cabinet Lighting Portable led Light, OKeanu Motion Sensor 18 LED Rechargeable Stick-on Anywhere Wireless Closet Light with Magnetic Tape for Counter Cupboard Wardrobe Stairs (1 Black) www.amazon.com/dp/B0721TNLYJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZF5W41W6S8T3TTHMHK48?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

[@nouaevue9631]

Hi, I enjoy your video. Are you willing to share details (brand and model) of what's on your sammy? Thanks.

[@merlyndaproductions]

I put details in description

[@eliaspinto6767]

Like 👍❤

[@djskizzymlw]

How much was the total after completing the build?

[@cheyennechun3919]

Nice work! How much did it cost you to do all of this?

[@thelakebar]

I have some questions for you about your upgrades. I have an 87 Samurai and many of the things you have done I am considering, How do I contact you ?

[@jimarnold9289]

16 liter. You mean 1.6 or really 16. That Would be like a 980 cubic inch motor

[@merlyndaproductions]

1.6L 16 valve. I mis-spoke. I was focusing on its the 16 valve version of the 1.6L

[@jimarnold9289]

@@merlyndaproductions lol. I was gonna say that's one huge motor

[@Phantasmos]

Where is your trail ride over night camping video?

[@merlyndaproductions]

I know -right? It will be awhile.