1994 Suzuki Samurai - Arachnid Revisited

The previous Sidekick power-steering box was replaced with a PSC orbital valve for full-hydraulic steering. Also note the limiting strap affi xed to the air shock with a clamp-on bracket.

The Arachnid is simple and reliable, which is as important on the trail today as it was back in 2002. There is no windshield, interior carpet, or top to get destroyed while wheeling, and the absence of these items keeps overall weight to a minimum. Auto Meter gauges in a custom aluminum dash monitor the engine's vital signs, while prp seats and Crow harnesses keep the occupants safe and sound. Behind the seats, the stock frame and sheetmetal were removed and replaced with 1-5/8x0.120-inch-wall tubing and removable quarter panels. An aluminum box houses the led taillights, tools, and recovery gear.

Wheeling with Casanueva recently illustrated that the Arachnid was far ahead of its time; it is still capable of rockcrawling the most formidable of trails. The upgrades performed by Spidertrax have made for a bulletproof drivetrain, particularly behind the low power of the Suzuki engine. So will we see more changes that will land the Arachnid back on the pages of 4WD&SU in the future? "We are planning to leave it alone and just enjoy it," says Casanueva. "But you Never know what the future might hold... "