i just noticed my steering shaft at the pitman arm flexes a little when i have someone move the steering wheel for me. same as the 2nd gen. DSS did good by me before and i don't drive fast enough on dirt roads to require a rock shield but i was just noticing you had an alternative to the DSS. didn't know there was one. now it's just a question of which is less expensive if you're happy with the carli.
best of luck on that fire thing. i think of you everytime the news flashes the map. looks like you're surrounded. things are getting a little close here in bonita but i think things will be fine. i rode my bike down near otay lake to have a look both this morning and this evening. fires definately grew a good measure. i have about 5 miles and a LOT of fire breaks like roads and parking lots between me and the fire. i'm not worried, but i have identified the stuff that goes with me if we evacuate... ... i'm leaving this dam computer behind..... and my alarm clock btw... ... and maybe even my cell phone.
the snowboard, mountain bikes, BAT (big @ss television), all things diesel, and my favorite coffee cup go with me.
you're welcome here if you need a place to stay for what it's worth.....
take care bro, j