BPL think tank on creating more structure/carrying comfort for a Jam pack

How much weight are we thinking about and exactly which Jam? I have a few thoughts but they might depend on model.

Edit – So connection, or at least not too much slack between the hipbelt and the frame is needed. Picture it this way. You can have a great frame but if the hipbelt sags around your waist it does no good. You need the hipbelt to hold the frame up above your hips to the weight is supported.

You could make some kind of frame sheet and fit it into the pad pocket of the Jam. I'm sure it would improve load carry somewhat but not enough for huge weights. The frame would need to be somewhat flexible anyway. Too stiff an the stress will be concentrated on areas of the pack not designed for it an you'll get blown out seems.

HERE is what Gary Dunckel and others did or Dave and HERE ,
Another Thread

Unless you have already modified your Jam or its damaged,I say

SELL IT IMMEDIATELY and buy a Fusion from SMD while they are on sale!

Folks are actively LOOKING for Golite stuff now that its clear they will not be be returning.

You could.probably get enough $$ for your Jam youd be within $25 or less of a new Fusion.
The stripped weight of a Fusion will be as low or lower than your Jam and any frame mods you make to the Jam will likely not result in a lighter or more comfortable pack than a Fusion with frame intact.

I say support the US Economy, and let some nostalgic Golite fan have your Jam and get a better pack for your needs ( a Fusion).

Thank you Luke, Link, and Jimmer for the feedback. Need to do some thinking/contemplating.

Jimmer, i have thought about trying to sell the Jam to fund the Fusion, because it is in great shape, with no mods so far, but it's a small version torso wise (i'm short and i was born missing an entire lower vertebrae). That would be a hard sell, unless a shorter woman would want to buy it, but then again it's a 70 liter–at least seems like it might not sell quickly or for much.

Happy New Years to all btw

Justin,
Just thought Id throw that out there from years of customizing lots of gear.Many times it's better to "discard and draw" a peice rather than mod it.

As to the desirabilty of your short torso 70 liter..Never make assumptions about the market..Ya never know , some Golite fan may be looling for a winter pack for his wife or have a short torso such as yourself.. Doesnt cost anything to list it on many sites..

What vintage and color is your Jam?

Good points, and if my spouse decides to strangle me in a fit of rage, i will quickly pull up your persuasive posts/arguments… ;) lol *maybe* that will bide me some time…

I bought it in 2012, it's a medium blue-gray color i would say. But you're right, it's worth a try selling it.

You can always store new gear in the attic. A recently deceased buddy of mine hid about 13 tents, 10 packs, etc.. up in one.

"You can always store new gear in the attic. A recently deceased buddy of mine hid about 13 tents, 10 packs, etc.. up in one."

The recently deceased part does not put me at ease, but i won't ask.

That's some hard core gear hiding. I'll admit i've occasionally hidden some gear, but it's not something i feel good about being an unusually honest type in an unusually communicative relationship.

So be honest and admit to gear addiction and get on with aquiring what you "need".

Hi, my name is Justin and I am a "backpackaholic"..

Seriously Justin,from the prices I have seen Jams go for lately,$85 is not out of line for your pack.

Now if it was in "Cheddar" gold..all bets would be off…lol
Luckily,yours is good 'ol Sky Blue.
..