Over on expeditionportal.com there is a guy with a Libby that posted a trip computer avg number of something like 32 mpg. Can't remember if he has over sized tires on the Jeep or not. Not verified - that said not surprised either. Keep it on cruise at around 100km/h I wouldn't be terribly surprised on stockish tires.

Tom H (old_man) over on NAXJA says he gets something like 22-24 mpg pushing 35s with his stroker. That's on 87/regular gas too.

IIRC the diesel Cruisers get in the low to mid 20s consistently with a light pedal.

My old Suzuki SJ-413 used to get high 20s on 33s (Imp mpg). But that is another experience if you will. Staying under 100km/h in a tin can in four lane highway traffic is not fun. LOL

FWIW, my XJ as it sits now on 235s and pushing a ARB bar on the front gets 21-22 mpg. Not sure what'll happen when the 33s go on.

Over on expeditionportal.com there is a guy with a Libby that posted a trip computer avg number of something like 32 mpg. Can't remember if he has over sized tires on the Jeep or not. Not verified - that said not surprised either. Keep it on cruise at around 100km/h I wouldn't be terribly surprised on stockish tires.

Tom H (old_man) over on NAXJA says he gets something like 22-24 mpg pushing 35s with his stroker. That's on 87/regular gas too.

IIRC the diesel Cruisers get in the low to mid 20s consistently with a light pedal.

My old Suzuki SJ-413 used to get high 20s on 33s (Imp mpg). But that is another experience if you will. Staying under 100km/h in a tin can in four lane highway traffic is not fun. LOL

FWIW, my XJ as it sits now on 235s and pushing a ARB bar on the front gets 21-22 mpg. Not sure what'll happen when the 33s go on.

well i drive a 5 speed 12v cummins, and i get about 30mpg under easy driving, wich sound skool, but with diesel being so much more, i would pay about the same in gas if i was getting a few mpg less. what abouts isuzu troopers? or dodge raiders? i do love the reliability of a 22r. i think a tpyota PU is still the best move. any thoughts?

In a gas powered full size the same vintage as your 12v Dodge you'd be lucky to break 20 mpg - ever. Thank your stars for the diesel.

Troopers and Raiders are cool. Some guys have built Troopers...IIRC there is a bunch of solid Isuzu stuff over at 4x4wire.com. The engine is a GM of some flavour depending on vintage. IFS so depending on what you have in mind that may be an issue - either to limit where you go or to start a mega SFA swap. Dodge Raiders (rebadged Mitsubishi) are just old at this point. Very little aftermarket support as well. Not even certain there is much in the replacement parts systems. Hey, if you like them go for it but it will be an uphill battle.

Personally, I feel a Jeep or a TLC is the way to go. If you plan to leave North America on expedition get a TLC over the Jeep. If there is a diesel version of the same truck you settle on go for the diesel.

If you stay in NA you can pretty much pick anything with little issue. I have no desires to go outside of NA (lived overseas before) so I went Jeep. That plus I wanted something newish versus dealing with a "restomod" (BT/dt - PITA). And something cheap to run vis-á-vis parts, spares, servicing, etc.

There's also Nissans and Rovers. Nissan Patrols are TLC grade equipment but very rare since they weren't imported to NA. There's the old hard body Nissans as well. Kinda small and under powered - about the same size as an XJ I guess. Rovers are really cool but they don't have the best reliability reputation. The Discoveries are hard to pass up at the prices they are asking (cheap!) but you will have issues with the engine at some point - just a matter of time. Re-engined with a SBF/SBC would be pretty neat. Love the trucks, just not the engine.

Toy mini stuff is bullet proof. 22R is a great engine. I don't fit in the Toy mini stuff so never delved into them much.

I like modern stuff. Look at stuff that is late 90s or newer unless you can fluke into something like a BJ62 that has been all gone through and up to spec. Where we are in the salt belt the newer the better.

HTH

You guys have some AMAZING rigs !!!! :eek:

I guess you can barely consider mine an expedition vehicle so far,
but I have alot of plans for it, and LOVE the aspect of the expedition setups.
It is also my daily driver, so I have to be careful how I set it up, none of this stuff makes it any lighter :(

http://www.jtice.com/photos/Offroad/Jeep_Rubicon/Jeep_Roof_Rack//IMG_1049.sized.jpg
http://www.jtice.com/photos/Offroad/Jeep_Rubicon/Jeep_Electrical//IMG_0397.sized.jpg
http://www.jtice.com/photos/Hiking_and_Camping/Vacation_2008//IMG_1118.sized.jpg
http://www.jtice.com/photos/Hiking_and_Camping/Vacation_2008//IMG_1969.sized.jpg

2005 Wrangler TJ Rubicon
4.0L I6 Engine
6 Speed Manual Transmission
Rock-Trac 4:1 Transfer Case
Dana 44 Axles in Front & Rear
Air Lockers in Front & Rear
Hardened Drive Shafts & U-Joints
4.11:1 Gear Ratio
4 Wheel Disc Brakes
16" Rubicon Wheels
31" Goodyear MT/R Tires
Both Hard and Soft Tops
Rear Wiper & Defrost
7 Speaker Sound System
High Rock Rear Bumper
ARB Bull Front Bumper
Warn M8000 Winch
Dash Winch Control
Poison Spyder Rock Rails
Skid Row Oil Pan/Trans Skit Plate
JKS Quicker Disconnects
Uniden Pro520XL CB
Firestik II 4' Antenna
Custom Switch Panel
1650 Watts of Power Inverters
IPF Headlights & Fatboy Bulbs
35W HID Offroad Lights
Garvin Wilderness Roof Rack
Bestop Extendatrunk

~John

Here are some more of my mates - he's currently up in far north Queensland, Australia travelling around.

http://img6.travelblog.org/Photos/72657/275998/f/2312186-The-truck-0.jpg

- 2007 Toyota Landcruiser 79 series trayback (4.5l TDV8 turbo diesel)
- Factory diff locks
- OME 2" suspension lift
- Firestone airbags for load levelling
- 33" BFG mud terrain tyres (incl 2 spares)
- dual batteries
- ARB bullbar and side rails
- Warn XD9000 winch
- Outback roof console with GME 3200 UHF
- Barrett 950 HF radio (to VKS737 4WD radio network)
- Motorola satellite phone on Iridium network
- Ipaq PDA with ozi-explorer for GPS mapping
- Tyredog tyre pressure monitor
- Mp3 stereo head unit, connected to reversing camera
- Boston Canopy on the tray. Fully fitted out with;
+ 40L Engel Fridge on fridge slide
+ food/kitchen drawers and drop down table
+ 2 burner gas cooker
+ 55L water tank with pump
+ storage drawers for recovery equipment and camping gear
+ Lots of space for swag, and other general camping gear

I don't see this on the list. Don't think its your winch controller. Looks like a fujitsu. Is it ruggedized, waterproof, touch screen? How is it mounted? Whats the gps card?

Here are some more of my mates - he's currently up in far north Queensland, Australia travelling around.


I still like that tray canopy. Any more pictures inside?

For those of you traveling with these big GPS screens, how do you like them?
Not sure I would like that large a screen blocking my forward view.

I have been playing around with laptop based car PCs for a while. I have a nice little 8 inch touch screen I sometimes mount in my tow vehicle, but not sure I would ever mount it in an offroad vehicle as all of my wheelers get way to filthy inside. (I like driving with windows down, or better yet doors off.) The touch screens do not seem to like dirt and dust.

Lately in my Superduty I just sit the entire laptop on the tranny hump and have a good view of the laptop screen for GPS. I have done similar in my Samurai with an OLD laptop on the passenger floor. (It got filthy, but stayed dry even in the rain with no roof on.)

-Wayne

That is a Fujitsu P1620 Tablet PC,
mounted with RAM mounts.
I talked about it more here...
http://www.jtice.com/jeep/5-13-08/

Its well made, as must all Fujitsu stuff is, but its not water proof, or rubberized some like Tough Books, etc.
It is a touch screen though, although it works best with your fingernail, rather than your fleshy finger tip.

It can be a bit large, I found it blocked less of my view mounted above the rear view mirror than it did down on the dash.

Below it is a Garmin 60csX handheld unit, which I can connect to the Fuji via USB.
You can also use a small BlueTooth GPS receiver with it.


I have a Garmin Nuvi 750W that I use in the Jeep now, I find it MUCH easier to use, the touch screen is more sensitive.
http://www.jtice.com/photos/Hiking_and_Camping/Vacation_2008//IMG_1125.sized.jpg

Yes, that is actually a little white Jeep on there as the position marker :D
Its insane how much it looks like my Jeep, it even has a roof rack !

~John

Hey Root Moose, that guy asking about what rig to buy lives in Ohio (or at least his sig says as much) so the RHD TLC's are out for him. They can't import them into the U.S.

But the XJ is a good one to build on, the 4.0 is pretty reliable, last a couple hundred thousand miles without much complaining. As for mileage on 33's, if i ever get the lift installed on my '98, i'll let you know.
With 31's i was getting 400-420 km's to a tank, and keeping it up around 110-115 kph.

A mount for a laptop...
There is a kickass one, no idea what the company name is, but i could find out. It's got 3-4 elbows and they all tighten down. You can swivel the thing around, raise it up, and they have custom mounts depending on the vehicle make/model. I've seen one in a friend's Ram and it was solid, and nice in terms of movement.

Wow!, I just found this topic…..and here I thought pirate was mostly dudes hacking up perfectly good rigs to make truggies. There are a lot of great expo trucks here too!

Here is mine…

1978 K10 with the usual ORD goodies, 14 bolt FF, Detroit’s, 8.1L EFI big block, Q78x16 Superswampers new Snugtop topper and old Hickey Sidewinder winch. Rear winch coming soon.

The hi-lift jack, tools, air compressor, spare tire and all much of the camping equipment are stored under the sleeping platform. I left just enough room between the platform and the tailgate for removable refridgerator and a cooler.

Picture taken at Browns Lake on the other side of Mt. Antero in Chaffee County, CO
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1321/1211558356_ed246784eb.jpg?v=0
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1011/1188088739_38dbf2f5aa.jpg?v=0
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1052/1188956090_04a31642e4.jpg?v=0
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1318/1189002118_a05392211e.jpg?v=0
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1063/1189002264_1996f7d15e.jpg?v=0

The new topper definitely makes for more comfortable (and dry) camping than the old bed tent. Photo take at Grizzly Lake in Chaffee County, CO.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1231/1188984468_5412ad774e.jpg?v=0

Very nice chevy man, I really like that. I have a 90 suburban that I would like to do something similar with. almost the same color too heh.

Its not mine, but a customers. His name on pirate is SocalXJ (I think). Its fawkin badass as far as expadition vehicles go. This thing has EVERYTHING. :smokin:

Here is his website / expedition blog. http://www.adventureduo.com/

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a276/yotamasters/misccustomersstuff013.jpg


That truck is real nice and it's for sale too. I wish I was in the market...

Some very well set up rigs in here:smokin:


Mine is slowly getting going.

07 Chevy 2500 hd classic. 79 hp ford front with Chevy outers, cross over, ford style cage radious arms and coils.14 bolt rear, locked with factory disk brakes. 6.0 engine, 2wd 4l80e trans, divorced ford 205 twin sticked t-case. The advantage of keeping the 2wd trans is the availability o them and price verse the 4wd version. This also allowed me to bypass having to use a factory chain driven computer controlled t-case and the issue I would have had with the V.S.S. if I were to swap to a 205 or stak/atlas or other. My front and rear driveshafts are also the same and full slip with just 1 in difference between the front and rear. I can carry just one spare stub shaft, and one spare drive shaft since the front acts as a back up spare for the rear.



4.56 gears with llr16 michelin xls and a 34 gallon tank. A.R.E. aluminum utility shell insulated with open access on one side and storage on another. Also have a roll out bed rack. Since I run a fire extinguisher business I also carry on board n20 and air tools should I need them.

The truck is bare bones, no power windows, door locks etc..hell it does not even have a seat belt or door chime:grinpimp:

Future plans are to build a false floor at top of the wheel well height and use the roll out bed for storage of tools, supplies, gear and spares. A well built roof rack and more fuel capacity is a must. I want to build a rear bumper and redo the front bumper and have a recessed winch as well. Other plans are to cut out the rockers and integrate 250 wall 2x6 in a factory looking set up to act as a buffer.

Next up is the cage and mounting the corbeau suspension seats and tearing into the 6.0 with heads/cam/headers/high flow cats and trying to mount an xj snorkel on it.


I do feel its tall but I lik the skinny tucked tires and they are stong as well. I may look into a 40 inch tire though.

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e290/supersize75k5/DSCN1902.jpg

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e290/supersize75k5/DSCN1896.jpg

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e290/supersize75k5/HPIM2108.jpg


http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e290/supersize75k5/HPIM2107.jpg

far from done, but for just a year old I am trying to break her in slow.. :evil:

When I want to explore and go camping or long trips with some moderate wheeling I want to have a rig that is sealed up to do it in and sleep off the ground as well. Other than that it is my extra work truck, 4x4 rig and used to tow the buggy.

It is nice to see a late model GM truck done right for a change instead of the usual chromed out IFS lift kits, 22’+ bling bling wheels and wanna be off-road tires.
Nice work!

picture taken at Sierra of Chihuahua

http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj203/josenrique/rutaindep2007368.jpg

cherokee country '96
5.5 lift RE & 33x10.5 BFG's

XJ GR :grinpimp:

Hey Root Moose, that guy asking about what rig to buy lives in Ohio (or at least his sig says as much) so the RHD TLC's are out for him. They can't import them into the U.S.

But the XJ is a good one to build on, the 4.0 is pretty reliable, last a couple hundred thousand miles without much complaining. As for mileage on 33's, if i ever get the lift installed on my '98, i'll let you know.
With 31's i was getting 400-420 km's to a tank, and keeping it up around 110-115 kph.

A mount for a laptop...
There is a kickass one, no idea what the company name is, but i could find out. It's got 3-4 elbows and they all tighten down. You can swivel the thing around, raise it up, and they have custom mounts depending on the vehicle make/model. I've seen one in a friend's Ram and it was solid, and nice in terms of movement.

those are RAM mounts tight?

yes, i am from ohio. haha. i think ill go xj. maybe a later model xj. whats a good suspension for a expo xj? i dont want soem crawler crap for it. something good at high speeds and decent cornering, on and off road. also, what abotu a zj with a 4.0l? ehat about suspensions for a zj (same requirements as the xj)? they are confy, haha... im am DEFINATELY interested in laptop mount. id like to be able to mount it and still have room for a pass. also, who makes a good GPS card for laptops? thanks!

Hey Root Moose, that guy asking about what rig to buy lives in Ohio (or at least his sig says as much) so the RHD TLC's are out for him. They can't import them into the U.S.

Are you sure about that? I thought there was a bunch of guys on the ih8mud site that had imported rhd's into the US. I may be wrong - only half pay attention to that site. ;)

yes, i am from ohio. haha. i think ill go xj. maybe a later model xj. whats a good suspension for a expo xj? i dont want soem crawler crap for it. something good at high speeds and decent cornering, on and off road. also, what abotu a zj with a 4.0l? ehat about suspensions for a zj (same requirements as the xj)? they are confy, haha... im am DEFINATELY interested in laptop mount. id like to be able to mount it and still have room for a pass. also, who makes a good GPS card for laptops? thanks!

You'll get twice as many answers about the best suspension as the number of people you ask.

On an XJ I'm a big fan of the long arm stuff. Any of TNT, FullTraction or Clayton would be good. Partial to the FT lately because it is four link versus radius arm. I don't like the RockKrawler three link and BDS is newish and I don't know much about it.

There's also the Rubicon Express drop bracket setup. Plenty stout and flexy for a "expo" style build.

I'd take a WJ over a ZJ.

Do you have kids or plan to have kids? If not a two door XJ would be a cool setup.

I'm basically watching the clock count until the day my boys are too big for the back of the XJ.

The XJ is pretty plush compared to some of the rigs I've had. Definitely a decent ride that you can drive all day and not get beat up.

You'll get twice as many answers about the best suspension as the number of people you ask.

On an XJ I'm a big fan of the long arm stuff. Any of TNT, FullTraction or Clayton would be good. Partial to the FT lately because it is four link versus radius arm. I don't like the RockKrawler three link and BDS is newish and I don't know much about it.

There's also the Rubicon Express drop bracket setup. Plenty stout and flexy for a "expo" style build.

I'd take a WJ over a ZJ.

Do you have kids or plan to have kids? If not a two door XJ would be a cool setup.

I'm basically watching the clock count until the day my boys are too big for the back of the XJ.

The XJ is pretty plush compared to some of the rigs I've had. Definitely a decent ride that you can drive all day and not get beat up.

yeah, im thinking xj proally. though i like the disco's one early 90's range rovers. though peopel say they suck? i dont see how. how tall of a lift do i need to run? it will be a DD also. what about later land cruisers? what do you think? id liek to buy a good running rig for about 1500-2000 and build it into a good expo rig over a year or so.

It is nice to see a late model GM truck done right for a change instead of the usual chromed out IFS lift kits, 22’+ bling bling wheels and wanna be off-road tires.
Nice work!

thanks, its now on some 41 inch radial iroks and black steel rock crawlers. The aluminum factory rims were getting chipped up real bad from abuse on the edges. And it seems I can no longer easily find the michelin xls locally:( I went with a tire I could easily get a added bonus is I run irok on the buggy... so spares for one will work on the other:grinpimp:

Are you sure about that? I thought there was a bunch of guys on the ih8mud site that had imported rhd's into the US. I may be wrong - only half pay attention to that site. ;)

About 99%.
I remember hearing so many of the U.S. guys drool over the fact that we can import them up here and they can't. I just wish the age requirement would drop about 10 years. :D:D

yeah, im thinking xj proally. though i like the disco's one early 90's range rovers. though peopel say they suck? i dont see how. how tall of a lift do i need to run? it will be a DD also. what about later land cruisers? what do you think? id liek to buy a good running rig for about 1500-2000 and build it into a good expo rig over a year or so.

LRs in general can have some problems. This is second hand info so take it with a grain of salt.

If you get a Disco with lots of accessories like power windows and such there can be gremlins.

Rust can be a problem. The steel under the aluminum panels can rust badly. The seam where the roof attaches to the outer panels can be a problem to.

They leak (windows, sun roofs).

The engine is really sensitive to overheating. If they get overheated there is a potential for a cylinder lining dropping in its bore. (Rover V8 is all aluminum)

They get horrible gas mileage and are underpowered for the amount of gas they burn.

Probably other stuff I'm forgetting.

That said, I love the look of the trucks. Swapping a SBC/4L60E into one would be pretty cool (Mark's adapters). IF we got the diesels over here I'd be all over one and deal with the more minor niggly stuff that goes wrong.

Supposedly the 97+ Discos are a touch better than the earlier ones - that is when BMW owned them and had gotten some QA into the factory lines. May be heresay, read it on the internet. ;)

How much lift? For an expo rig design around the tire size that makes sense with your engine and tire availability. I'm a fan of 265/75R16 and 285/85R16. Sort of the standard full size pickup truck tire sizes that you can get anywhere. That's a 32" or 33" tire but a little narrower than the normal floatation sizes. For something with more than a 105-110" wheelbase I'd start looking at 35" tires. The big thing with an expo rig is not to get too carried away with tire size and height.

In your price range, XJ is pretty much all you can do. You won't get a good TLC for that price range. You could get a decent FZJ80 for around $6-8k I think. Same with FJ6x. It will need some work though. For that price range you could get a built XJ if you look around. There is a really sweet, stroked SWB MJ for sale in Wisconsin right now if a pickup is your thing. I think he is asking $4.5k. Stock height, but lots of other stuff done.

Best year for the XJ? IMO, '99.

yeah, im thinking xj proally. though i like the disco's one early 90's range rovers. though peopel say they suck? i dont see how. how tall of a lift do i need to run? it will be a DD also. what about later land cruisers? what do you think? id liek to buy a good running rig for about 1500-2000 and build it into a good expo rig over a year or so.


In your price range, XJ is pretty much all you can do. You won't get a good TLC for that price range. You could get a decent FZJ80 for around $6-8k I think. Same with FJ6x. It will need some work though.

I think when you look at all of the costs involved getting a FZJ-80 with E-Lockers for 5k ( http://forum.ih8mud.com/vehicles-trailers-sale-wanted/231248-94-fjz80-harrisburg-pa-factory-lockers-168k-asking-%245k.html ) is going to be the cheapest way to go by the time you get to the finished project. A factory locked 80 series is going to have a rear full float axle with discs, a fully boxed frame and big enough wheel wells to do this with 37" tyres:

http://www.members.shaw.ca/jmqconsult/371.JPG

The downside is that it is not going to be great on gas, I have a diesel 80 so that issue is not an issue for me.

I think you are being a little optimistic with $5k for a 80 with lockers. I'm not saying they aren't out there but...

There is a lot of service that needs to go into a 80 at that price range to make it expo ready.

Check out the ih8mud forums and do a little digging on the costs after purchase that some people have had to go through. If you do some research there don't get freaked out by the talk of head gasket issues on the 1FZ. I think that may be a red herring - kinda like the 0331 cylinder head issue on the last XJs. Sure, it happens but rare... and the fix is not a big deal if you can spin your own wrenches.

That said, I think the 80 just might be the one of the best rigs out there. They are a touch large but that doesn't bother me.

You'd be farther ahead cost wise with the 80 but low purchase price on the XJ means that you can upgrade incrementally and add stuff as budget allows. The 80 is a higher quality vehicle too.

Depends on what you want.

The downside is that it is not going to be great on gas, I have a diesel 80 so that issue is not an issue for me.

What kinda mpg you figure you are getting running 37s?

What speed do you cruise at? 110-120km/h? Faster?

How much does it cost to fill from empty and how many kms out of the tank?

thanks for all the info guys. i found a good beater fj80 that need some engine work and he will deliver it! im going to look into it. i have to look into things maybe. i dont know yet. im still open to any advice or opinions.

http://www.trailslesstraveled.com/media/forums/exp_650_01.jpg

http://www.trailslesstraveled.com/media/forums/exp_650_02.jpg

My favorite expedition vehicles don't have four wheels.

Make a short list of the trucks that fit what you want.

Go drive a few examples of each.

After that it'll be a no brainer.

My favorite expedition vehicles don't have four wheels.

How many days worth of food have you carried with you on te bike?
I'm always curious about the guys that expo with bikes, and how far they can actually get away from civilization and for how long. (food/water/fuel...)

We just got back from that trip. Spent 4-days traveling all over central and southeast Oregon (800 miles & about 80-90% off-road). We're really only limited by how far we can travel between gas stops (I've got about a 225 mile range when my XR650R is outfitted with a 6 gallon tank). We carry 2-3 days of food with us, but can usually count on re-stocking wherever we buy gas. Water is a bigger concern. We each carried a 100oz Camelbak and another gallon of water between the two of us. If we ran low, there was plenty of water to filter where we were riding. We're basically just traveling with lightweight backpacking gear, so that should give you a pretty good idea of what type of stuff we carry. I've been having a lot more fun riding dirt bikes than working on trucks since we moved up to Bend. There are just so many places we can go that I couldn't take any of our trucks.

I've been having a lot more fun riding dirt bikes than working on trucks since we moved up to Bend. There are just so many places we can go that I couldn't take any of our trucks.

That's definitely an appealing aspect of using a bike over a truck/suv vehicle.
The pics you posted look like it's in pretty open areas, did you travel on any paths that physically wouldn't fit a larger vehicle? Even a side by side?

I've entertained the future possibility of using a side by side for shooting out for a short weekend outing totally offroad. Pretty good storage an offroad capabilities in a small package for 2 people. Would be fun to do with a couple folks in similarly equipped machines.

Oh yeah. On this particular trip, we could have probably taken a well-prepared truck through most of the places we went, but we ride a mix of REALLY tight woods and singletrack and more of the wide open stuff that you see in those pics. It just depends on where we're riding.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r31/snydercj7/Big%20Bear/goldmtntrail06_5.jpg

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r31/snydercj7/Big%20Bear/goldmtntrail06_2.jpg

04 Rubi testing out "new" @ the time Nth 6" & working the trailer through Gold Mtn. Trail.

many of the larger expedition trucks i have seen have one or more bikes for local exploration or tight trails. A side by side or two person quad would be cool too and should take the same room as two bikes..

Has anyone done short expeditions 2-4 days on a side by side or quad bike, using off highway trails or routes??

EDIT: watching Fisher's ATV Adventures now on Versus. This show covers 1000 miles in Mexico on side by sides. Some footage shows travel on paved roads and through rural communities, but the vast majority seems to be off road....

What kinda mpg you figure you are getting running 37s?

What speed do you cruise at? 110-120km/h? Faster?

How much does it cost to fill from empty and how many kms out of the tank?

Around 16-18 US MPG @ 110-115km/h on the highway, at 80-90km/h it does quite a bit better.

Around town etc. I get 500-550km from a tank and have seen as high as 700km from a tank in BC when travelling on secndary highways.

Lately it has been around $100 to fill it with diesel @ 1.30/l.

man i love my jeep but i would love for it to be a diesel. however for what i do its not worth it to do a swap so its staying gas.

Yeah, that's the thing with a diesel conversion. You really have to want it to make it worthwhile because it is unlikely that you'll get it back in the difference at the pump. I was thinking about it for the XJ just to get a feel for it. For the difference of 3-6 mpg on a built rig minus the difference in gas prices versus diesel prices it would take a long time to recoup your money. Would probably get there on the next rebuild of the diesel perhaps? May be an exaggeration but it would be a long time regardless.

There's a few photos floating around of the trip computer in a KJ reading ~33 mpg. I gotta wonder how realistic that is in the day to day though. Following the land cruiser stuff none of them seem to get out of the low to mid 20s mpg. UK gallons at that AFAIK. The KJ wasn't really built either.

If you were looking at getting into a new rig that came diesel then there'd be no question in my mind, go diesel.

Gas is so much cleaner and convenient too, if you are concerned with such things. Outside of your normal stomping grounds you can pull into any gas station and fuel up. Around here you have to know which stations have diesel.

Here's my rig, not much done wheel/suspension wise, I've got an Offy intake, 600CFM (soon to be down jetted) Holley, and a hooker header all to help it breath better. Being close to 700 miles away from it I can't do much to progress the plans...

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j243/1970Custom/Bronco/118121520390.jpg

Here is a Pinzgauer with Mattrax for sale just outside of Telluride, CO. Wild!


383624

I shudder to think what they are asking for that. I imagine the price is about as shocking as the top speed of that thing, lol.

who cares its sick

Here is my 07 Toy FJ TRD SE called the Raptor. Just got back from Ouray, CO. And spent 3 days on the Kokopelli Trail, camping on Top of the World, then ran Hell's Revenge in MOAB.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z21/shadow-warror/Kokopelli%20Trail%20Expedition/Kokopelli-27.jpg

Imogene Pass -Ouray, CO

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z21/shadow-warror/Imogene/Imogene-21.jpg

On Top Of The World - Kokopelli Trail Expedition July 2008

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z21/shadow-warror/Kokopelli%20Trail%20Expedition/Kokopelli-75.jpg

Coming down the Rose Garden

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z21/shadow-warror/Kokopelli%20Trail%20Expedition/IMG_2495.jpg

Hell's Revenge - MOAB, UT

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z21/shadow-warror/Kokopelli%20Trail%20Expedition/IMG_2536.jpg

OK, it's not technically an expedition rig yet, but it will be when/if I finally move to the Pacific NW. I just got 2" Old Man Emu springs and 31x10.5R15 BFG ATs. The stock wheels mean no sticking out tires which I think is consistent with the expedition aesthetic, and the small lift means good suspension geometry, less stress on the unibody and better reliability.
I will probably end up offroading alone mostly, so I will get a winch before traction aid, and the traction aid will probably be a Trac Lok LSD rather than a lunchbox locker, to reduce the chance of broken axleshafts.

Edit: I'm getting 20mpg with the new 31s! I'm always arguing with Jeep guys about gas mileage being a relevant offroad spec. Tired of hearing "buy an econobox if you care about mpg".

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v468/winkosmosis/Jeep%20XJ/frontlefttiny.jpg


Here's my stock WJ on Goose Lake Jeep Trail. Went there while I was doing an internship in Yellowstone. I got the XJ and gave the WJ to my dad, just a couple weeks after lifting it with a budget boost :D
With the distances I drove it, I think it qualifies as an expedition rig.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v468/winkosmosis/wj_goose_lake.jpg

Heres what I am starting with a 1999 Nissan Pathfinder LE. Got it with 83050 miles on it. Anyway my plans are to maybe get a bit more lift, build some bumpers and rockers with some A/Ts on, maybe a stouter roof rack. I took the finder flares off its still has the paper dealer tags and as money permits Ill build it up. Its mamas ride and shes preggers so its not going to happen over night.:shaking:
http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i248/uctj/IMG_0451.jpg
http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i248/uctj/IMG_0453.jpg

After the flares were removed.
http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i248/uctj/IMG_0467.jpg
http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i248/uctj/IMG_0466.jpg
http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i248/uctj/IMG_0468.jpg

I've always liked Pathfinders. Pretty light unibody and clean futuristic styling. Almost bought one but then I found the WJ. I've never seen anyone selling a lift except Rocky Road :(

Nice Wrangler with the tucked in tires there

Just a few images of my Defender....

in Mongolia during the Transsyberia 2007...

http://up.picr.de/1200782.jpg

http://up.picr.de/1200783.jpg

http://up.picr.de/1200784.jpg

...and a minor river crossing...
http://up.picr.de/1200786.jpg

...and in Romania during the Superkarpata 2008, a nice and tough Expedition Trophy...
http://up.picr.de/1200787.jpg

http://up.picr.de/1200788.jpg

and my old ´78 K5 Blazer....
http://up.picr.de/1200809.jpg

http://up.picr.de/1200810.jpg

..arrival in Kabul after 8 weeks on the road, crossing Turkey, Syria, Iraq & Iran...
http://up.picr.de/1200811.jpg

...late November 2002, in Pakthia Province heading towards Khost...
http://up.picr.de/1200812.jpg

holy crap Oilworker, you must have some stories..... do you have any journals or travelogues of your journeys? Where are you based out of? I can't see/read any plates on your rigs.

EDIT: okay, I lied. I can see the front plate on the Defender but I'm an American idiot and don't understand anything off my own continent :roll:

I'll take a shot in the dark and say he is German.

Given the prominence of the German flag on the Defender and I think that is a .de URL on the K5 I am guessing he's from Germany. I forget what German plates look like...

Given the prominence of the German flag on the Defender and I think that is a .de URL on the K5 I am guessing he's from Germany

see, I'm a stupid American *and* a liar :)

:) Don´t worry, I am currently based in Germany, have lived in Liberia until the outbreak of the last war and been to a few places sofar.

The german flag on the Defender has always helped in the past to keep people from outright shooting at me, like in Afghanistan.

The K5 has Saudi number plates, though.

Currently I have no real travelogues online but will probably reload them to one of my websites ´til the end of this year. First I have to get another site online and I have to start building the new rig....

So long,

Robert

Thanks for sharing Robert. Look forward to seeing more of your travels in the future.

this is my 97 Jeep Cherokee i use for my expedition vehicle. Its just got a home brewed LA suspension that my dad and i made. But I made 100% of the bumper, rock sliders and front tube fenders, and im 16 years old. And i think thats pretty cool.
http://a353.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/55/l_3fe4868370d4a2284a31e60202576e80.jpg

Here is my rig, 2003 Nissan patrol TD6 4.2 intercooled turbo diesel straight 6 :D

few mods, 2" lift, cargo barrier, drawers, rear power direct from second batt for fridge, Warn winch, snorkle ect
Sliders, tyres water tanks comming soon
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r71/Trail-rush/Mt%20Skene%20snow%20trip/P1030985.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d72/aussie_extreme/P1000198.jpg

The old rig, 89 Nissan Patrol with ford badges!
6cy diesel
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d72/aussie_extreme/P1030800-1.jpg

How's the fuel economy on your newer patrol?

old boys Gq Patrol
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m210/adam_077/Picture044.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m210/adam_077/DSCF0313.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m210/adam_077/DSCF0312.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m210/adam_077/DSCF0311.jpg
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m210/adam_077/DSCF0279.jpg

donk:
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m210/adam_077/04052008169.jpg

How's the fuel economy on your newer patrol?

not to bad averaging 11-12l per hunderd km, the old one was consistently 13-14l per hundred

this is my 97 Jeep Cherokee i use for my expedition vehicle. Its just got a home brewed LA suspension that my dad and i made. But I made 100% of the bumper, rock sliders and front tube fenders, and im 16 years old. And i think thats pretty cool.
http://a353.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/55/l_3fe4868370d4a2284a31e60202576e80.jpg


Your right, That is cool!!
I love to see the Younger gen getting in to wheeling!!

OK, it's not technically an expedition rig yet, but it will be when/if I finally move to the Pacific NW. I just got 2" Old Man Emu springs and 31x10.5R15 BFG ATs. The stock wheels mean no sticking out tires which I think is consistent with the expedition aesthetic, and the small lift means good suspension geometry, less stress on the unibody and better reliability.
I will probably end up offroading alone mostly, so I will get a winch before traction aid, and the traction aid will probably be a Trac Lok LSD rather than a lunchbox locker, to reduce the chance of broken axleshafts.

Edit: I'm getting 20mpg with the new 31s! I'm always arguing with Jeep guys about gas mileage being a relevant offroad spec. Tired of hearing "buy an econobox if you care about mpg".

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v468/winkosmosis/Jeep%20XJ/frontlefttiny.jpg


Here's my stock WJ on Goose Lake Jeep Trail. Went there while I was doing an internship in Yellowstone. I got the XJ and gave the WJ to my dad, just a couple weeks after lifting it with a budget boost :D
With the distances I drove it, I think it qualifies as an expedition rig.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v468/winkosmosis/wj_goose_lake.jpg


Goose lake trail is an awesome trail.Its what always comes to mind when i think of Expeditions in America.When i was on it we ran into Jeep testing the WK Grand Cherokee before it was released.I worked at Mammoth Hot Springs,where were you?

Goose lake trail is an awesome trail.Its what always comes to mind when i think of Expeditions in America.When i was on it we ran into Jeep testing the WK Grand Cherokee before it was released.I worked at Mammoth Hot Springs,where were you?

Yeah, Goose Lake is the most beautiful place I have ever been to. It was me and 3 other interns. We hiked way up to some snow fields too.. Pretty sweet to see snow in September.

I worked in Mammoth, in the Spatial Analysis Center doing GIS.

what year did you work there?

this is my 97 Jeep Cherokee i use for my expedition vehicle. Its just got a home brewed LA suspension that my dad and i made. But I made 100% of the bumper, rock sliders and front tube fenders, and im 16 years old. And i think thats pretty cool.
http://a353.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/55/l_3fe4868370d4a2284a31e60202576e80.jpg

you are correct, sir, that is pretty cool! nice truck.

what year did you work there?

June - nov 2006

June - nov 2006

Ah,i was there during the summer of 04.

My pathfinder.. 1987,
Custom suspension
Custom cage,
Custom interior
Winch,
Extra fuel
Tools
Parts..
and thats all i'll list.
Built for anything. Cage looks gay on top, but it was done this way for stowing gear and a small boat
I can take the wife, 3 kids and load her up for a week.
She goes any place i want, can carry an extra 10 gallons of fuel
The 'ole bitch has never let me down or stranded.
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f138/87pathy/RollyloopOct807075.jpg
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f138/87pathy/elbepathy.jpg
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f138/87pathy/stuck.jpg
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f138/87pathy/waitingonjeeps.jpg

the exo cage doesnt look too bad at all, the only thing i worry about is the structural design of it, but other than that sweet rig man

this is my 97 Jeep Cherokee i use for my expedition vehicle. Its just got a home brewed LA suspension that my dad and i made. But I made 100% of the bumper, rock sliders and front tube fenders, and im 16 years old. And i think thats pretty cool.
http://a353.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/55/l_3fe4868370d4a2284a31e60202576e80.jpg

You are off to good start;). A nice roof rack up top to free up room inside would look good and work well

our daihatsu taft (wildcat, scat)

http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/143576B0617C11DDB5AF17E7510BB804.jpg
http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/B0411880528F11DD86CC69F3510BB804.jpg
http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/B07B8970528F11DD9384472C510BB804.jpg
http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/137255704C8E11DD829FEAE2510BB0F0.jpg
http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/13F8C3804C8E11DDA9D0EE9A510BB0F0.jpg
http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/14A0EA604C8E11DD8D620BBB510BB0F0.jpg
http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/984CBB304C9011DDB9584BF3510BB0F0.jpg

http://www.magix-photos.com/mediapool12/46/C8/BB/F0/A1/35/11/DA/8B/65/E1/C4/51/0B/F6/E9/oma/10/B7C0ED50574F11DD8DE001D4510BB804.jpg

Cool Daihatsu! Nice Flex!

here is mine, plans are diamond or dana44 front but keep it in the limits of excessive height, arb roof rack, and pay the other half of my damn rear bumper since i have no idea if its done or not.

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m68/neliconcept/IMG_8909.jpg
http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m68/neliconcept/IMG_8685.jpg
http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m68/neliconcept/IMG_9318.jpg


Hi, Do you carry your bike on the trail without issues?
I have the same sort of hitch bike carrier and wonder if it's enought strong

Here's my soon to be expo vehicle...

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f379/Torch2815/P1020482.jpg

I think a 1st gen 4Runner would be one of the best platforms to build an expedition vehicle. We built one with a 3.4L conversion and a Total Chaos Gen II Caddy Kit that was awesome probably my favorite of all our projects.

I'm not knocking anyone's rigs on this section

but...

it seems that I've only seen a handful of actual "expedition" rigs in this section.

The rest are just wheeling rigs. My perception of an expedition rig would have tech about sleeping arrangements, alternative charging systems (solar, generator, etc.) shower systems, GPS mounts, etc.

Just on the last page alone I saw a few mild Cherokees, a sweet diesel Patrol, and some exo caged rigs. I just am missing the tech in any of these threads in this section.

I think there needs to be more control of what gets posted in here. Not that I really contribute to any of it because I don't classify my rig as "expeditous", I just don't see the point to posting up an ordinary wheeling rig unless it has something from the list I made above.

Just my 2 cents.

You are late, we discussed this about a month ago, lol. I think it has more to do with the intent. What some consider an expedition, others consider a extended camping trip. There is no hard definition about what consists of an expedition or what your vehicle requires. Just as different equipment is needed on the tundra then is required for a desert terrain, so different vehicles are setup to be self sufficient under different circumstances.

Having said that, I to agree that some of the rigs posted here are a far cry from being any sort of expedition vehicle as defined in my mind. I haven't posted my Ramcharger in this thread because it looks like a basic D60'd wheeler because I haven't spent that much time or money on it yet. In the end it will probably be more of a search and rescue vehicle then anything, but should be capable of making some decent treks away from civilization and have a lot in common with other vehicle I consider expedition worthy. To each his own, but I do think there should be a little more restraint about posting the average daily driver with mud tires and so forth.

Pietro i think your right, at one point in this thread there is a lifted f350 that is a quad cab long bed... not very expedition considering everything else was stock. I think there needs to be requirements or "guidelines" as to what a real expedition rig is. I have a yj that is as much of an expedition rig as alot of the ones posted on here and it is in no way shape or form built for expeditions. It gets bad gas mileage and has a 18 gallon tank. Im sorry but a rig that goes around 200 miles per tank is not a expedition rig. That is a daily driver or a wheeler rig. Isnt an expedition going out into the outback of Australia or going to The abandoned mining cities of Nevada? For a week at a time going say 250 miles into the wilderness and then coming back. Sorry for the rant but i do think your right some of these posts need to be moved to the right threads... such as post your pictures of (insert make) here.

I agree with the exception that I think expedition rigs should either provide the things listed above or at least be able to carry those provisions. Only adding that the rig also provide protection from the elements (i.e. having full doors and roof) I'd like to see everyone put in a range on the amount of fuel and how many days it can remain self sufficient (remember no tow rig at the trail head with spare parts and tools) At least start by having a full size spare.

many ppl here will never go on an expedition, so maybe that should be addressed or defined first... going camping for a week and taking all of your food and gear with you in your truck or jeep is NOT an expedition... that is camping trip than can be done in many different types of vehicles. Hell I can camp for three days off the beaten path, down a dirt road in the middle of no where in a Honda Civic.

I love to see cool rigs as much as the next guy, but like so many threads on this forum, this one veered off track a while back..

just my two cents...

An adventure is not defined by the vehicle that you took to get there. Hard doors and a roof? Oh, is that what makes it an expedition vehicle? Fuck me that's lame.

With some of the comments on here it made me wonder what an expedition really is....

Main Entry: ex·pe·di·tion
Pronunciation: \ˌek-spə-ˈdi-shən\
Function: noun
Date: 15th century
1 a: a journey or excursion undertaken for a specific purpose b: the group of persons making such a journey
2: efficient promptness : speed
3: a sending or setting forth

So if you cant travel a thousand miles on a single tank that takes one out of this category?

It doesn't technically matter what your rig is but what your working towards...My truck is trail ready but I'm now in the beginning stages of equiping it for long distance on and off road travel and to be as self contained as Possible for my particular vehicle. Unfortunately I'm not willing to place my self in debt to achieve this all at one time to appease the members of any board... :shaking:

Where in north America can you drive in any direction for a week and not run into civilization... maybe if you walk... or come up to Canada and hit the far north...but your on board shower wont be so shit hot then would it?? :flipoff2:

As far as I'm concerned if you are building a vehicle in the spirit of a expedition vehicle and are at any stage you should be considered welcome. It takes a shit load of planning and trial and error to equip the amount of crap in a expo rig that you need to carry and still have it functional...Maybe it should be a forum of ONLY FINISHED EXPEDITION VEHICLES...:shaking:

I figured that the great PIRATE 4x4 would be a great place to start planning a build for an expo vehicle that is based from an actual trail rig... maybe I'm wrong :D

I have a gps mount I made, and a remote mounted camera and a 15 gallon water tank, plus 2 metal fuel cans with a roof rack on the way so does that mean I can stay and play now ??? :flipoff2:

Again, I'm not looking to start a war but I'd like to see the posts here somewhat related to expedition regardless of how extreme your idea of an expedition is.

I think anything related to making a vehicle self sustaining would qualify. Something simple as plumbing a long range fuel cell I think would fit but adding lift and tires is something that belongs in a vehicle specific forum.

Sorry if this topic has already been brought up, I just want to see this section turn into: I put some new 31's on my rig and I have handheld GPS mount on the dash, check out my new expedition rig...:shaking:

NO NO NO!!!!!!!
Most tire shops these days will absolutely not work on a 2-piece rim. There's safety concerns over those rims and shops won't work on them.

I skimmed through the rest of your post and there's good info there, but the 2-piece rims are a bad idea.

you're confusing two piece rims with split rims. two piece rims bolt together. there are very few that are DOT legal, HMMWV wheels are DOT stamped. The Hutchinson rockmonsters are as well. two piece wheels are very safe. the chances of eight fine thread half inch wheel studs stripping is slim to none. with the safety factor engineered into something like that, it would take hundreds of PSI to blow that apart. the tire would blow apart first.

split rims have a ring that goes between the wheel and the tire bead. they are not inherently unsafe, they can be if they are damaged, assembled improperly, over inflated, etc. there are a lot of tire shops that will not work on these. however any good shop that does large truck tires will do them. i have a set of 16 inch split rims on my plow truck. i would avoid these however. there is just no reason to run them. they were common when tubes were used.

I understand the need to Keep this room on track... But i would hate to see it limited by any blanket statements or rules...I can read about suspension tech any where, but what about suspension tech for expo vehicles that are carrying an extra 1000+ pounds while they wheel (see my other post in this section) That would be a very good bit of tech to have here...

Over time as this room grows in recognition I'm confident you will see very Expo style tech in here like water systems, power systems, storage , etc but remember that the large majority of those people frequenting this room are pirate members that are heading in a new direction...so If your just showing what you want to use as an expo vehicle who really cares, but if you are to post a thread showing something that should obviously be in another room then absolutely move it... IE: vehicle specific mods thats cannot be crossed over to other vehicles, or don't relate to wheeling with very heavy loaded vehicles that require a good set of road manners and the ability to wheel hard.

We should Move the offroad trailer posts in here also as they go hand in hand sorta...I'll need one I'm sure

Well there's my #2 rant...this is better than dr. Phil...:flipoff2:

this usually sees trails like the rubicon and fordyce, but the MTR's were chosen so it could do street duty without fuss....i explore a lot of fire roads and forestry roads in the sieeras east of sonora and murphys..it does have an onboard microwave:D

split rims have a ring that goes between the wheel and the tire bead. they are not inherently unsafe, they can be if they are damaged, assembled improperly, over inflated, etc. there are a lot of tire shops that will not work on these. however any good shop that does large truck tires will do them.

This is also wrong, those types of wheels are called split rings, true split rims are old school, and are actually two piece rims. They are VERY dangerous, and as most are rusted severely, they have become more dangerous with time. The ring may blow off on the split ring type, but that doesn't have nearly the force of a split rim separating. I've worked on both, and I won't touch a split rim.

Michael

You are correct, but I would beware of the split ring style also as found on many light duty truck in the 60s and 70s as well as a lot of military trucks like the M715, M35, etc. They can also blow off with incredible force and actually killed a guy near here about 15 years ago. Ring blew off, ripped a chunk out of his throat and he bled to death before they could even call for help.

On the plus side, split ring rims are easy to change in the field, which is why the military used them for so long. With the right tools and proper precautions, you can change a tire or patch a tube on the side of the trail and continue on. Just remember to use a clip on air chuck with a 10' lead so you can air it up to seat the bead form a distance, wrap a chain loosely around through the rim several times to contain the ring in the event of a failure and put the rim face (ring side) down. If the rim, ring and tire bead are is good condition, the bead of the tire should retain the ring once seated. There is plenty on info on the web about the split ring rims on the military truck forums.

Some vehicles on here look like they need to be hauled by trailer to the trails, this kind goes against what an expo rig should be. Likewise 40 inch tires are kind of silly unless your traversing glaciers in Greenland. Most stock 4x4's make excellent expo rigs with little or no mods needed.

In the states there are few trips that could be called an expedition. Nevada and the Southwest may be some of the few places left where you can travel for days and not cross a paved road or run into another vehicle. If you look at some of these trans Sahara expeditions the trucks are not lifted and caged. In fact the tires are skinny and lifts are kept to a minimum. Being mechanically sound and self supported trumps rock crawling ability.

IMO simplicity is the key.

I think 'adventure vehicles' would be a more appropriate title for this section of the forum, but whatever. I'm just glad that more people are thinking about DRIVING their rigs, as opposed to trailering them everywhere.

Oh, and the PNW is still pretty fucking wild.

Not to mention one place I hope to travel in a bit, South Dakota's Badlands. A place that I would not take a "stock 4x4 with little or no mods", lol.

I agree with the last 2 posts Adventure vehicle may be more appropriate name, but I think now we are splitting hairs...My point is why would I in Canada build a vehicle to travel the Sahara desert or travel the outback of Oz when I have no plans to travel there??? If you look around the world expo vehicles vary a bit region by region but generally are similar... Except that you can't get to North America from there so they don't need to be setup for our environment....Why should we setup for theirs...:shaking:

There is so much varied terrain on this continent that is retarded...it's not all like the southern states...40's wouldn't be that bad a choice in Northern Canada with all the frozen tundra that will swallow a d9 cat in the spring when it thaws... (May be tough to find a replacement tire though)

I'd pay good money to see you roll through on a stock vehicle :flipoff2:

We don't all live in so cal or arizona...Our forests even have trees in them up here :D

Split Rims arent that bad, anyting can be dangerous, my car is an 03 model that came standard with them, they are the preferd rim for outback travel as you can change a tyre easily, they run a light truck tyre instead of a passanger car one, and asuch are cheaper, tougher and more reliable carrier heavier loads that are generally taken with a fully loaded 4wd

Here's my 85 Toy 4runner set up for long range desert exploration.

Pics from top to bottom are:

- Echo Canyon, Death Valley National Park
- Mengel Pass, DVNP
- Saline Hot Springs, Saline Valley, DVNP
- Slumgullion Canyon, Northwest Nevada
- Black Rock Point, Black Rock Desert, NV

"Im sorry but a rig that goes around 200 miles per tank is not a expedition rig."

This is silly and wrong. Some of the best stock expedition rigs get about that (specifically a lot of land rovers). Fuel cans get all the extra range you need.

I don't agree that you have to have modded the truck with XY or Z to have an expedition rig.

Someone who know what they are doing and does the right minimal prep can get a whole lot further off the beaten path that a novice with no common sense or skills and a pimped out rig.

For example, these guys drove basically stock Land Rover/Defender 110s.

www.ihana.com

www.travelswithrover.com

Back in the old days, people would take trips for months on end with nothing more than a stock short wheelbase landy (which if mine is any indication, gets about 18-20m mpg highway with an 11 gallon or so tank).

http://www.firstoverland.com/

This 1978 VW bus is more expedtion than 90% of the trucks on this forum, including my truck.

http://www.vwvagabonds.com/JovaSale

IMO, an expedition rig should be capable of.

1) 300 mile round trip without refueling
2) capable of starting itself with a dead battery
3) cary spare parts, able to fix without calling napa.
4) able to go ANWHERE you want. (capable 4x4)
5) repair flat tires.. i.e. spares, patches, plugs OBA.
6) Cary food, gear, and multipel people

:smokin:

I have been thinking a bit more about the term expedition. I camp a lot and for long periods but I would not call that an expedition. The term expedition seems to convey a purpose to the trip instead of, hey lets go wheeling for a few days and drink some beer. An expedition should have a goal and it's outcome probably unknown. I have been on only a few trips where that I would consider an expedition and none of them involved vehicles. They were either climbing, rafting or kayaking trips on mountains, routes or rivers that had either never been climbed or never been rafted or kayaked. Success was not a given and every day brought new challenges and obstacles.

The first Jeep through the Rubicon or the Dusy Ershim might be considered a expo, the following of an old wagon trail across Nevada may be an expedition. Hell a winter traverse of the Rubicon probably ranks up there.

When I think expedition I think epic. Camping aint epic, it's fun but hardly epic. An expedition rig does not an expedition make.

Some great rigs here, giving me some ideas for my 1978 flatdeck'r and 1978 bronco. My only limitations are time and money!

FYI - split rims were generally a two piece wheel that was riveted together. Only really meant for light duty, 1/4 ton vehicles and passenger cars. They rust over time and blew apart. The military had the split rims which could be bolted together and were designed better to avoid catastrophic failure.

Split ring wheels are very dangerous as mentioned above you must consider this a loaded gun and use extreme caution. Wrapping a chain is a great method as is using a clip on air chuck with a valve to stop the air.

Now even one piece 22.5 and 24 truck wheels can be dangerous. My dad has had a couple go kaboom inside a cage and he has over 40 years experience in industrial tire servicing.

:beer:

I really like the elvated tent idea so you are sleeping with all the critters and snakes. My lady would really appreciate that.

Expedition to me means a couple months in the back country without meeting a soul. Is that even possible these days?

I would say this is an expedition:

http://www.drivenxdiscovery.com/home.htm

The same guy also did Pennsylvania to Panama on a BMW F650GS Dakar.

Some day (when I get time off work) the two of us are doing something similar. We have done more local trip, but I have never had the time for the long trips as he does.

Ron

I expect to see more conversion vans/suburbans or tow behind trailers, things like this. I think it would be pretty badass to take the top off of a 1st gen 4runner and build a camper top for it.

I just went with a Suburban for an expo type vehicle, admittedly, it will never leave the States, or even probably East of the Miss., but it will haul my crew and gear for a couple weeks stay and do it with comfort and finesse missing in my 4runner.

I just went with a Suburban for an expo type vehicle, admittedly, it will never leave the States, or even probably East of the Miss., but it will haul my crew and gear for a couple weeks stay and do it with comfort and finesse missing in my 4runner.


but the gas mileage???:barf:

Probably better than a FZJ80.

What's your point? You can carry enough gas in a 'Burban to drive across the continent.

Probably better than a FZJ80.

What's your point? You can carry enough gas in a 'Burban to drive across the continent.

my point was $$$ for fuel...

I expect to see more conversion vans/suburbans or tow behind trailers, things like this. I think it would be pretty badass to take the top off of a 1st gen 4runner and build a camper top for it.

Funny...I've been thinkin about that for the last few weeks...But building a trailer is so much easier...We'll have to see :D

My eventual plan for my "junior expedition vehicle" is to use a truck bed and chassis as the basis of my trailer to carry extra gear, supplies, fuel and as a mobile camper with the shell on, much like the Bronco a few pages back. With the Ramcharger's 35 Gal tank and two 28 Gal saddle tanks on the trailer, I should have a decent cruising range and a gas bill equal to the national deficit.

Some really good looking expedition rigs. Funny to see what some call expedition rigs.
There are some very nicely built trailers that are tough enough to take on expedition or at least a week long trip. These guys put together some real nice packages, and the price reflects it
http://www.adventuretrailers.com/

this should be added as a sticky to the top of the thread.

when quoting someone, could people please not repost their pictures. no one wants to scroll through an entire page to see the same photo three times. especially if you have a crappy internet connect. it's a huge waste of bandwidth, and clogs the thread.

you know once you load the image once its in your cache and you browser isn't going to download it again just for fun. there's no wasted bandwidth or storage issues...

the big issue is scrolling down and seeing the same picture three times. or looking at a new page hoping to see more sweet pics only to see three from two pages back.

Here's mine. A 2001 D90 TD5. reasanoble spec, but nothing comared to some of the awesome stuff on here.:)

Both pics are in North Queensland Australia. First one is somwehere south of Cooktown

Second is on the Old Telegraph track, just before Nolans Brook, right at the tip of the continent.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v707/Psimpson7/Cape%20York/Picture536.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v707/Psimpson7/Cape%20York/Picture243.jpg

Awesome shots, and nice rig. Wish we had those kind of Expedition opportunites here in the U.S.

Here's my truck, an '82 Toyota Land Cruiser BJ60 with a turbo'd 3B, PTO winch and a bunch of other stuff. These pictures are in/near the Mountain Pine Forest Reserve in Belize this past Christmas.
http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=6668&d=1200103128

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=6674&d=1200103128

http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=6675&d=1200103128

Goal for 2009 is to use the factory half rack mod which uses the lower portion only of the rack at the rear and middle mounting points, and a Storm company kit to mount a crossbar only to the front rack mount like this FJ owner did (http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff86/Bigfish171/Vehicles/FJrack4.jpg).

This will lower the roof top tent down several inches making for a better ride on the highway.

Make: Toyota
Model: FJ Cruiser
Year: 2007
Color: Titanium Silver

Engine: 4.0 V6
Trans: 5 speed automatic

Modifications & Additions:

* Bentup rock sliderz
* Cobra 29 Nightwatch CB radio, Firestik II 4’ antenna, and serial # 6 Bandi mount
* Cargobox that was made for my ’91 4Runner, but fits the FJ just fine.
* Powertank 10 lb model
* Lund Vent Visors, in channel ones
* Maglite installation
* Toyota high pitched horn to accompany the stock one
* ARB bumper, IPF foglamps, OME lift (heavy duty up front, medium duty back aft), Warn XD9000 winch, Winchline’s synthetic winch line and safety thimble.
* Inchworm elocker guard
* Ramsey wireless winch control
* Ellis Precision custom battery hold down bracket
* Magnaflow 11226 muffler hooked to stock pipe
* Pioneer AVIC-D3 headunit with DVD navigation, Focal 165v2 component speakers, Alpine PDX-4.100 amp, Infinity Kappa 3.27f rear speakers
* ARB fridge/freezer
* Custom 12v Bluesea fusebox and dual 12v plugs for 12v power anytime
* Dick Cepek Mountain Cat mud tires sized at 285x70x17 mounted to Pro Comp 7089 wheels
* Hi-lift jack, and Hi-Lift Handle-All, four tools in one (shovel, axe, pick axe, sledge hammer)
* Fourtrek Hi-Lift mounts mounted to the ARB bumper
* Halguard HG250R fire extinguisher (clean agent, safe for electronics)
* Kidde fire extinguisher for other types of fires outside of the vehicle
* Total Chaos upper control arms
* Dual battery setup
* Springtail M-Packs and rack
* Safari snorkel
* Maggiolina AirLand medium roof top tent
* Camping Lab awning

http://www.pnw4runners.com/runs/81107/800x600/10.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/yotatech/6year/corey3.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/yotatech/6year/corey5a.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/yotatech/6year/corey2.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/camping_trips/aug08/8.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/camping_trips/aug08/23.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/camping_trips/aug08/33.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/fj/dual_battery/3.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/fj/mpac/6.jpg

http://www.pnw4runners.com/fj/arb_fridge2/7.jpg

I had forgotten that I had posted in this thread earlier too, but it was before I had camped with the setup.
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showpost.php?p=8191229&postcount=97

there are couple of cummins diesel powered suburbans out there. those could be badass expo rigs.

Here's what I am thinking about turning into an expedition rig... I love doing expedition runs, and this is what I have, but it means I need to get the jeep out of here first....

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w175/poriggity/S10-1.jpg
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w175/poriggity/s10-3.jpg
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w175/poriggity/s10-2.jpg
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w175/poriggity/s10-4.jpg

Scott

That could possibly be the worst choice I have seen for an expedition rig.

Why? I'm turning our standard-cab Tacoma into more of a long-range ADV vehicle.

Why? I'm turning our standard-cab Tacoma into more of a long-range ADV vehicle.

ADV vehicle?

Short for 'adventure'. Sounds better to me than 'expedition'.

Why? I'm turning our standard-cab Tacoma into more of a long-range ADV vehicle.

The older S-10s are notorious for various issues and they are getting to the age where most of the emissions and electronic crap is failing all the time. I just don't see them as a reliable vehicle and to me, that is the #1 thing to an "expedition" vehicle. In addition to that major problem, there are also very little aftermarket support for such a vehicle so most gear would have to be custom made and beefing the drivetrain would not go well unless you swap it all out. Sure, it could be built, but to make it something reliable, that parts are easily available for and can carry the gear and supplies you would basically have to gut it and take it down to a bare body and frame and start over. I think a 3/4 ton GM fullsize would be a better start unless you have deep pockets and lots of time.

A Tacoma is a whole different animal even though it's classified here like the S-10. The Taco is much more reliable, has a heavier drivetrain and has tons of aftermarket support, not to mention it is sold pretty much worldwide in some form or another.

I just assumed that it was the beginning of a typical Pirate build-up. You know, gut the bitch and use little more than the shell to build something bigger, better, badder...

You do have a valid point. This thing runs surprisingly well for what it is, although the 2.8 is a slug. My jeep is nowhere near adventure vehicle status, and never will be with the stuff I've done to it. Its not something I want to drive long distances... I need to take things one step at a time though... Its gotta pass smog before I do anything :D
Scott

when building an s10 one should at least start w/ a 4.3........pick up a 4.3 powered blazer for under 1k and you'd have a way better platform

The older S-10s are notorious for various issues and they are getting to the age where most of the emissions and electronic crap is failing all the time. I just don't see them as a reliable vehicle and to me, that is the #1 thing to an "expedition" vehicle. In addition to that major problem, there are also very little aftermarket support for such a vehicle so most gear would have to be custom made and beefing the drivetrain would not go well unless you swap it all out. Sure, it could be built, but to make it something reliable, that parts are easily available for and can carry the gear and supplies you would basically have to gut it and take it down to a bare body and frame and start over. I think a 3/4 ton GM fullsize would be a better start unless you have deep pockets and lots of time.

A Tacoma is a whole different animal even though it's classified here like the S-10. The Taco is much more reliable, has a heavier drivetrain and has tons of aftermarket support, not to mention it is sold pretty much worldwide in some form or another.


All older vehicles are subject to worn out parts.
S10 are everywhere, parts are everywhere. Pick a autoparts store or salvage yard in the middle of anywhere in the US and no doubt they will have the parts you need. What parts do you think will be hard to get?

Your right, a Tacoma is a whole different animal. Its at least a two day wait for parts.


Yes it would be better to start with the 4.3. Makes dropping in a V8 pretty simple. Plus the 4.3 has more power then the 2putt8.

Too me, "building" a truck is more then buying a bunch of aftermarket parts and slapping them on. Plus it may also mean rebuilding parts or whole systems on the truck to ensure it is reliable.


Soem great looking rigs so far. Keep the pics coming.
My exdedition rig is nothing fancy. Imagine a '00 S10-Blazer with a grill guard and 30" tires. My supplies come to less then 40 pounds, that includes a weeks worth of food, water purifier, shovel, first aid kit, tent, clothes, and the backpack to carry it in. :flipoff2:

I've been giving thought to ditching a few vehicles, and consolidating... a 4.3 blazer sounds like a really good idea though :D
Scott

Well, if you do get rid of a bunch of vehicles to get a more expo ready machine you may want to really think about what you will buy.

I don't want to be negative but a 4.3 Blazer would not be on my short list. Maybe a full size Blazer depending on what I was expecting to do with the truck but not a S-10 based one.

Even then, i'd want something newer. Efficiency and comfort is the thought there.

$0.02

Ok this isn't mine but I think that is is the most badass expo rig ever, it even has a dishwasher in it... The company is Unicat (www.unicatamericas.com (http://www.unicatamericas.com)) and they can make an expo rig on a bunch of different chassis

http://www.unicatamericas.com/images/photos/ex70/EX70HD-MANTGA6x6.5-560.jpg

http://www.unicatamericas.com/images/photos/ex70/EX70HD-MANTGA6x6.13-560.jpg

http://www.unicatamericas.com/images/photos/ex70/EX70HD-MANTGA6x6.18-560.jpg

http://www.unicatamericas.com/images/photos/ex70/EX70HD-MANTGA6x6.12-560.jpg

I am partial to the S10-Blazers and here is the short list of why.
Fully boxed frame from the front to at least the tranny cross member (first generations), 2nd generations the boxing went past the passenger compartment. Extremely rigid frame.

4.3 180-200hp, 230-250ft pounds of torque. Plus you can bolt a V8 up to the tranny without making driveline modifications. A 305 is 50 more of each while a 350 is 100 more of each.

SUV= Sport Utility Vehicle, meaning your shit won't get wet/muddy in the bed. No need to add a topper, already got one.

Speaking of the covered back end, it adds weight were you need it, over the rear axle. Aids in traction. Balances out the rig from front to back. If you do add the V8 it only adds about 100 pounds over the front axle, and the balance doesn't change a whole lot, especially if your spare is hanging off the back, or placed on the roof. You could throw the spare in the back end, however that sucks up space for other things.

Lets talk about space for a moment. 2nd gens have the gas tank between the framerails under the rear drivers side passengers seat, and no lower then the frame rail. you could mount your batteries under the rear passengers side floor board to help even out the balance and still gain access. Then build a cabinet under the rear end over the rear axle where the gas tank 91st gen) spare (2nd gen) used to go. that sotrage cabinet would be about 8" deep and fit between the frame rails. This could be a storage location for parts and tools. That still leaves you room in the back end for your camping gear, food, coolers, etc. Strap it down.

Flat bottom, look under that frame, nothing hangs below it, not the gas tank, not the t-case, not the exhaust. You could pratically run a flat skid plate.

Outside dimensions. Its damn near a foot narrower than a fullsize and shorter too. I can go through some pretty thick shit and not hit anything.

About the only down side is IFS, and that is only if your looking to lock the front axle, and need more articulation.

As for a pick-up truck style. too light in the ass end, plus all your shit is exposed to thiefs and the elements. Not too mention the long wheel base.

The 4dr S10-Blazer is 107" perfect wheel base. Teh 2 dr version is 100". Also a decent wheel base.

Tranny and t-case. 700R4/4L60/4L60e, 207/231c/233. Drivers side drop which makes it great to drop in a HP D44 or HP D60.

i drove an s-10 blazer for 3 years before my land rover. s-10's suck balls. i'll never own another chevy again after that car.

i drove an s-10 blazer for 3 years before my land rover. s-10's suck balls. i'll never own another chevy again after that car.

Why?

Its pointless to say you don't like the car without giving us an explanation why.

Did you not like it because it was ugly, slow, or unreliable?

Give us a little bit more info than "it sucks balls"

i drove an s-10 blazer for 3 years before my land rover. s-10's suck balls. i'll never own another chevy again after that car.

Funny, I drove a Chevy and a Ford before my LR, and I regret the day I bought the Land Rover as it totally sucks rusty c*ntbuckets.

See? I too can post totally worthless crap.

My cousin has a 2000-something S-10 extended cab with the ZR-whatever "off road" package. He's had nothing but trouble from it and it only has about 90k highway miles. He takes ridiculous care of his truck, it's never dirty and the thought of taking it off road has never crossed his mind. So far he has complained numerous times bout having to have the window regulators and rear door latches replaced, he's had the transfer case replaced, the steering worked on twice and just a bunch of electronic crap in the interior breaking or malfunctioning. I don't think the A/C has worked right since he bought it. It is, for all intents and purposes, more trouble that it is worth at this point.

Now I'm not knocking all GM vehicles, even though I do not like them. This one is a piece of crap. For what it's worth, so was my Liberty and my SRT-4 before it. It's just very hard to find a modern vehicle that is built with any quality and is able to last much past the warranty end date. Manufactures are making more disposable vehicles these days instead of the quality ones from 30 and 40 years ago. I bought my Ramcharger because it is one of the last real trucks Dodge built. I refuse to own one newer than 1993. With my quick and easy D60 and NP205 swap, it's 10 times heavier than anything built today. It may not have the power of a new Hemi, or CTD, or some of the GM and Ford engines, but I know it will pull what I need, when I need it to and not set off all sorts of lights and codes in the dash and send me to the dealership for a $2600 repair.

i have these two. the yota sees lots of road trips/camping/wheeling and the zu is starting to get some of the duites, plus towing our snowmobile :)
http://img391.imageshack.us/img391/7061/dscn1786cp0.jpg (http://img391.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dscn1786cp0.jpg)
http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/7439/dscn1930yb9.jpg (http://img171.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dscn1930yb9.jpg)
http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/7039/dscn2222dy0.jpg (http://img81.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dscn2222dy0.jpg)

If you are planning on US travel then look at US made vehicles. If you are planning on worldwide travel then seriously consider vehicles made outside the US. I know that when living in the USA/Canada and seeing US made vehicles everywhere gives you the impression that they are common, that impression is true ONLY in the USA/Canada. A GM V8 may be easy to get parts for stateside but in other countries the Toyota 22R series of engines are MUCH easier for parts availability.

Just my $0.02 and if you're not planning on leaving the US/Canada/Mexico then no big deal.

Tablet PC (M1400 Motion Computing) on RAM mount - running MP3s, TOPO, Street Atlas, EFI Live tuning software, etc.

http://www.roadie.org/espinosa14.jpg



How has the M1400 Motion Computing worked out? Most importantly is the screen always easily read even in direct sunlight?

my work/expodition rig is a 88 ram w100.

the cabin gets used as a base,

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/dak360/DSC00463.jpg

the small boat and motor are loaded up for trips to surrounding lakes.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/dak360/DSC00456.jpg

good day fishin with grandpa, the lake was pretty calm

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/dak360/DSC00455.jpg

did double duty and took a load of fire wood home for my garage.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/dak360/DSC00469.jpg

the m8000 can be used front or rear.
9 1/4 rear from 2002 ram, 4.56's sure grip and discs,
non cad d44 front with 4.56's and powerlock,
360, 435, np208.
3 inch single exhaust (i hate noisy exhaust)
3 inch lift, shackle flip and ditched fatory blocks,


future mods are cutting the frame behind the rear spring hangers
flat deck, with overhead rack for boat,
adding a 35 gallon ramcharger gas tank (truck currently has a 28 gallon tank)

^^^^^^^^^^^Cool truck..Id like to have one like it. Sound like you got some good plans for it..if it was me Id keep it just as is.:homer:

Where are located where were the pictures of the lake and cabin taken?

Looks alot like Maine's North Woods.

This is what I'm going to build up. Don't laugh! :laughing: My plan is to ship it to Austrailia and drive the outback. Then maybe do a South America trip.

1969 Ford Econoline.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/EMIEVEL/VANS/PickingaCampsite.jpg

It is a pop-top...great for camping.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/EMIEVEL/VANS/5-2.jpg

Here's the plan:
4 BT Cummins diesel - (I already have the donor breadvan and it runs great)
I expect close to 30mpg and it will run on just about anything, like used engine oil! I will have about 40 gallon fuel capacity which will get me 1000 miles per tank.

4X4 - Again, I already have the donor ('80 4x4 van). It will use a Dana 44 front...no need for a 60 for an ADV van.

Gear Vendor Overdrive - This is questionable as I'm not sure I will have the room for a driveshaft! I already have this as well!


My goal is to have a camper van that will be economical. The 4BT is a good solid engine and extremely easy to fix. Parts are available but I will have a couple spares and don't expect many problems. I'll use a 3 speed C6 tranny which are known for reliability as well. No overdrive trans makes me feel comfortable. The GV o/d unit is a pretty simple product and I have used one for many miles of abuse. The chances are I will not use it as it won't be necessary.

I'll use a Dana 60 full floater rear axle for good brakes and reliability. If I break an axle, I won't be stranded. The front axle will be a driver's drop 44 with some sort of locker, maybe a spool. I don't know what Tcase I'm using but it's sitting in the donor chassis still! It's mated to the C6.

As you can see I've been planning this for a while. I have bought all the expensive stuff. I just need to start ripping into it. The '69 Econoline is all original! I bought it for $3500 with only 35K miles on it. I've put 20K on it in the last 4 years. I took it down to Cabo for Thanksgiving and it got me all pumped about converting it.

Chris

Awesome plan EMIEVEL!! You will love the 4bt. Just did a swap myself. That van looks cherry.

My plan is to ship it to Austrailia and drive the outback. Then maybe do a South America trip.

Chris

Sounds fantastic!
Have you checked into what it will cost to ship a whole vehicle to Australia?
My wife is a teacher and has the possibility of transferring to Australia for a full year, and I've thought about bringing one of my own vehicles over there rather than buying something there for the year and having to sell it before leaving.

Sounds fantastic!
Have you checked into what it will cost to ship a whole vehicle to Australia?
My wife is a teacher and has the possibility of transferring to Australia for a full year, and I've thought about bringing one of my own vehicles over there rather than buying something there for the year and having to sell it before leaving.

I'v read an average of about $2K US dollars using the RORO method. Roll on/Roll off in a container.

This is from guys importing into the states, dont see why it would be much difference the opposite direction unless there are more fee's entering Australia.

Awesome plan EMIEVEL!! You will love the 4bt. Just did a swap myself. That van looks cherry.

Thanks! It's pretty clean.
This was in Baja.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/EMIEVEL/VANS/VanandaPalapa.jpg

I want it to sit about like this (probably a few inches taller), although this one is a 2wd. I don't know who owns it.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/EMIEVEL/VANS/22b3_1.jpg

This was an original Quadravan built in 1974. I had it for a couple years but it wasn't nearly as clean as the '69 and I wasn't super impressed with the 4x4 conversion. This pic makes it look better than it was!
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/EMIEVEL/VANS/1974%20Quadravan/308quadravan016.jpg


Sounds fantastic!
Have you checked into what it will cost to ship a whole vehicle to Australia?
My wife is a teacher and has the possibility of transferring to Australia for a full year, and I've thought about bringing one of my own vehicles over there rather than buying something there for the year and having to sell it before leaving.

I haven't checked into it. I would be renting something if I didn't ship it over, so the cost might not be too bad. Plus, building a rig for the outback definately needs to be tested in the outback! I might have to stay there long enough to justify the expense. :D

1969 Ford Econoline.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/EMIEVEL/VANS/PickingaCampsite.jpg

It is a pop-top...great for camping.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/EMIEVEL/VANS/5-2.jpg



That's a sweet looking van as it sits. Gonna be real nice with the cummins and 4x4

I briefly thought about doing something similar with shipping a vehicle to australia for a year or two. Some one who lived ther told me you could not drive a left hand drive vehicle there legally:( Didn't look into it to much but you may want to. Hope you find a loop hole lemme know if you find one:D

I briefly thought about doing something similar with shipping a vehicle to australia for a year or two. Some one who lived ther told me you could not drive a left hand drive vehicle there legally:( Didn't look into it to much but you may want to. Hope you find a loop hole lemme know if you find one:D

That's not 100% true...
I have been to Aus. twice, and I've seen LHD vehicles both times. I saw old VW bugs the first time, and a couple of older 50's/60's era pickups also.
Last year when I was there I saw what must have been a Corvette club, because there was about a dozen LHD's convoying down the highway.

They are somehow legal, but there is likely a lot of red tape to go through.
Oh, when I saw one of the VW's the first trip, he had a "Left-Hand Drive" sign in the rear window.

For your van.

A TH350 or 400 would be easier to adapt to the 4bt and just as reliable with less HP loss. Or you could go with a 727 out of a diesel dodge and it would last just fine. 727's are very stout and can be built for less than the cost of the adapter for a c-6.

A spool in the front will be nothing but problems. Just get a good l/s. Pick one of the many or a good lunchbox locker. I've run a lock-rite in my front diff for 3 years with no problems and it has a big diesel on top of it.

I haven't been to AUS, but I went to New Zealand last year. There is no need for a vehicle that will run more than 75-80 mph over there. The speed limits on 90% of the roads were 100KMH. About 62 MPH and lots of the time the road was so narrow and windy that 70 KM's felt like 100 MPH.

Take a good fridge, there's lots of places over there where food is $$$ and shopping is sparse. Also, at least in NZ, internet is pretty $$ and sparse as well, so communication with the states is difficult at times.

You might want to consider taking the spare parts you think you might need, have extras in the states where they can be air shipped to you, and take tools, welder with you.

Good luck. You may find you like it so much down there, you don't want to come back. I know I liked it, but it was good to come home also.

P.S. If you like anything other than Coke products, be forewarned.

UTCJ

I live in Sask Canada.

the cabin is at East Trout Lake,
the view from the boat is Stewart lake, about a 20 mile trip from etl.

thanks for the props on the old beater.:D

Here's the plan:
4 BT Cummins diesel - (I already have the donor breadvan and it runs great)
I expect close to 30mpg and it will run on just about anything, like used engine oil! I will have about 40 gallon fuel capacity which will get me 1000 miles per tank.

4X4 - Again, I already have the donor ('80 4x4 van). It will use a Dana 44 front...no need for a 60 for an ADV van.

Gear Vendor Overdrive - This is questionable as I'm not sure I will have the room for a driveshaft! I already have this as well!


My goal is to have a camper van that will be economical. The 4BT is a good solid engine and extremely easy to fix. Parts are available but I will have a couple spares and don't expect many problems. I'll use a 3 speed C6 tranny which are known for reliability as well. No overdrive trans makes me feel comfortable. The GV o/d unit is a pretty simple product and I have used one for many miles of abuse. The chances are I will not use it as it won't be necessary.

I'll use a Dana 60 full floater rear axle for good brakes and reliability. If I break an axle, I won't be stranded. The front axle will be a driver's drop 44 with some sort of locker, maybe a spool. I don't know what Tcase I'm using but it's sitting in the donor chassis still! It's mated to the C6.

As you can see I've been planning this for a while. I have bought all the expensive stuff. I just need to start ripping into it. The '69 Econoline is all original! I bought it for $3500 with only 35K miles on it. I've put 20K on it in the last 4 years. I took it down to Cabo for Thanksgiving and it got me all pumped about converting it.

Chris

Not to rain on your parade but you're doing some significant modifications to a vehicle that is not common (at least in Central America and I assume South America and Austrailia). Many of those mods are using parts that are also not too common down here. You may want to rethink either the vehicle or the destinations. Vehicle would be fine in the US/Canada/Mexico and the destination would be fine in many other vehicles but the combo may give you some grief.

that is a nice van man, dont cut it up, get a newer van, SUV or truck to chop to pieces and adventure in... finding parts for a 40 year old ford van is probably not easy either..

I hesitate to put this in here as it's not truly an expedition vehicle as I drive it every day. But...we did drive it from Michigan to California and back again this summer so maybe that counts for something?

http://img379.imageshack.us/img379/4313/img4945ek4.th.jpg (http://img379.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img4945ek4.jpg)http://img379.imageshack.us/images/thpix.gif (http://g.imageshack.us/thpix.php)

Extended full trunk with mountaineer rack, safari top and windjammer tucked under the toneau in the event of weather...which we hit A LOT of on the trip west. Rain, every damn day. I'm not talking a sprinkle either, it was torrential downpours to the point my father would call to warn us about the yellow cells on the weather map. :laughing: We'd fire up the laptop, hooked to a cell phone for internet access and determine the most direct way through a particular storm. Much fun. If I could leave tomorrow, I'd be packing right now in order to do it all over again, rain and all.

2002 TJ (Apex)
4.56 gearing stock axles with a tru track in the rear.
33x12.50 Trxus STS
5 speed inline 6
2" coil spacers and 2" body lift with dreams of a 4" rockcrawler long arm.
Actually averaged between 15 and 16 mpg. Mileage tanked about 2/3rds of the way home and engine light started coming on. Ended up replacing the throttle valve sensor when we got back and mileage went right back up again.

Here's my Overland/DD rig:

Specs:
-2004 LJ unlimited.
-factory hardtop
-4.0L/auto
-D30-open
-D44-Factory LSD

Modifications/Overland Equipment

Vehicle modifications
-Rokmen Mercenary Sliders with Bars
-Winch mounting plate- (winch TBD - Milemarker Hydraulic10.5, Warn M8000 or Warn 8274, probably)
-Limb risers (lifts branches above windshield, effectively, on scrubby/overgrown socal trails)

-

Communications/navigation
-Cobra CB with Firestik antennae
-Garmin Etrex Vista GPS unit
-"COMING SOON" - SPOT GPS transmitter

Storage
-Custom Doug. Fir/stainless steel "shelf" in rear load area
-Congo cage cargo rack-500lb capacity
-Thule aero box (as needed)
-Congo cage mounted rear swing-away
-"Tough Stuff" Hood mount for Hi-Lift jack
-Thule bars on Congo cage with custom mounts

Equipment
-Walmart Brand 8 person ground tent-nicknamed the Taj-Mahal..(has been a wonderful tent BTW for our family of 4.)
-5 gallon Wedco Fuel can
-5 gallon mil.surp water can(tan plastic)
-Coleman classic two-burner propane stove
-2 adult folding chairs/2 child folding chairs
-Aluminum folding camp table
-Walmart Brand privy shelter (privy TBD: either Pett toilet or similar)
-Classic enamel cup/bowl/plate/coffee perc in compact kitchen box
-Shovel and Axe on rear swing-away


Upcoming MODS/Changes

-New rear seat assembly that fits 3 PRP preemie seats (kid # 3 on the way)
-Choose winch and install.
-Add stout front bumper with shackle mount tow points
-Add Engine oil pan skid
-Engine mount/body lift (1") to fit Belly-up Skid plate.
-Storage for Bridging ladders and Firewood.
-Upgrade/replace tires with set of HeavyDuty AT tires


PICTURES

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/DSC02590.jpg
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/DSC02602.jpg
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/DSC02236.jpg

\/ Below:rear storage tray while under construction. \/

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/DSC01747.jpg
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/IMGP0032.jpg
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb64/kodiak1232003/IMGP0058r.jpg

...For your van.

A TH350 or 400 would be easier to adapt to the 4bt and just as reliable with less HP loss. Or you could go with a 727 out of a diesel dodge and it would last just fine. 727's are very stout and can be built for less than the cost of the adapter for a c-6.
Yeah, I was/am undecided about which is better. The 4BT has a 400 behind it now, so I should probably just adapt a tcase to it.

A spool in the front will be nothing but problems. Just get a good l/s. Pick one of the many or a good lunchbox locker. I've run a lock-rite in my front diff for 3 years with no problems and it has a big diesel on top of it.
You're right. I was thinking of cost, but a spool isn't much cheaper than a lock-rite. I actually ran a lock-rite in my Sammy buggy for quite a few years as well.

I haven't been to AUS, but I went to New Zealand last year. There is no need for a vehicle that will run more than 75-80 mph over there. The speed limits on 90% of the roads were 100KMH. About 62 MPH and lots of the time the road was so narrow and windy that 70 KM's felt like 100 MPH.
I was thinking of the O/D for mileage but that probably won't be worth the hassle. I don't usually go over 60 anyway, especially when I'm trying to make something last.

Take a good fridge, there's lots of places over there where food is $$$ and shopping is sparse. Also, at least in NZ, internet is pretty $$ and sparse as well, so communication with the states is difficult at times.

You might want to consider taking the spare parts you think you might need, have extras in the states where they can be air shipped to you, and take tools, welder with you.
I have 2 more complete vans which are the same models that I just bought for parts only. ;)

Good luck. You may find you like it so much down there, you don't want to come back. I know I liked it, but it was good to come home also.

Hahaha, thought about that too but I heard it's difficult to do that.

P.S. If you like anything other than Coke products, be forewarned.

Thanks for the help!

Not to rain on your parade but you're doing some significant modifications to a vehicle that is not common (at least in Central America and I assume South America and Austrailia). Many of those mods are using parts that are also not too common down here. You may want to rethink either the vehicle or the destinations. Vehicle would be fine in the US/Canada/Mexico and the destination would be fine in many other vehicles but the combo may give you some grief.

I know it sounds over-confident, but I'm building this to be extremely reliable. That diesel motor is as reliable as they come; and SIMPLE! I'm going to use a popular steering box since I'll have to convert it all for the new axle anyway. That '69 van doesn't use anything vacuum related and swapping in an old diesel is kinda perfect. This whole project is going to built as simplistic as possible for those very concerns.

Also, I've been transporting cars across the country for many years and have learned quite a bit from that. I'm hoping to have all my homework done and it'll be just like work except in another country! I know it would be slightly smarter to start with something more common but I really want to build the van. :)

...



I know it sounds over-confident, but I'm building this to be extremely reliable. That diesel motor is as reliable as they come; and SIMPLE! I'm going to use a popular steering box since I'll have to convert it all for the new axle anyway. That '69 van doesn't use anything vacuum related and swapping in an old diesel is kinda perfect. This whole project is going to built as simplistic as possible for those very concerns.

Also, I've been transporting cars across the country for many years and have learned quite a bit from that. I'm hoping to have all my homework done and it'll be just like work except in another country! I know it would be slightly smarter to start with something more common but I really want to build the van. :)

YELLER!!!!!!

:flipoff2:

that is a nice van man, dont cut it up, get a newer van, SUV or truck to chop to pieces and adventure in... finding parts for a 40 year old ford van is probably not easy either..

I won't be chopping it up too much! It was a $3500 van and there are plenty of them out there; I've even seen two or three that are in nicer shape, though it's rare!

I have 2 more complete vans which run and drive that I will use for parts (mostly interior parts.) I thought these vans were rare until I bought one. Then I noticed them everywhere and see them in every junk yard.

Another really cool thing is the pop-top. I would be hard pressed to find another pop-top van (any year) for the right price.

I briefly thought about doing something similar with shipping a vehicle to australia for a year or two. Some one who lived ther told me you could not drive a left hand drive vehicle there legally:( Didn't look into it to much but you may want to. Hope you find a loop hole lemme know if you find one:D

Contact the Australian consulate and Im sure you will be ok. http://www.embassy.gov.au/


Your vehicle may need a roadworthy certificate when you get here from a local govt office or garage.

I have seen and spoken to Americans who have brought their own LHD vehicles inc two in Ford vans:smokin:
IMO you would be better off buying a local RHD 4wd vehicle. Having the steering on the left makes overtaking on long highways less than safe.
There is also the parts issue.
Landcruisers/Hilux are cheap and plentiful:grinpimp:

If you are youngish,the aussie govt will be happy to give you a work permit .
Plenty of work at resorts for travellers and it usually includes high quality accomadation in remote areas

You can drive a left hand drive vehicle in Austrailia. Once you ship it over there, it will go through their safety inspection. If the vehicle is over a certain gross tonnage, you will be required to have signs on the vehicle stating that it is a left hand drive vehicle. You will also have to bring it back with you when you leave, can not sell a left hand drive vehicle to the locals.
Check around on the Austrailian touristry websites, I used to have a link to the regs, but can no longer find it.

Unless you're going to be in country for a few years, it's not worth the price to ship your personal vehicle over there and bring it back again. Find a cheap 4wd while you're over there and sell it when you leave.

Ive added this alloy camper to my HZJ75 landcruiser cab chassis.
I had a slide on camper before but it was too big for serious offroad trails.
With this camper on,offroad is a breeze even benficial as the back axle flexes the Heavy duty springs like they should.

I got the 80 litre fridge with it. Its got lights fluroescent lights inside with extra plugs for apliances.
I added a 100 amp deep cycle battery today and Im seeing how long it can run the firdge on half power with a light on.
Im guessing about 2 1/2 days.

The tent is surprisingly easy to put up ,about 3-4 mins but the ladder is a death trap and needs a taller job.

Im planning a short trip next week as a shakedown cruise for ideas on how to improve.

I have a few problems to nut such as where to store 2 spare tyres. I can carry them up top but it flattens the bed mattress out.
Ill probably raise the alloy tray and build a shelf in the tray chassis above the dual fuel tanks.

The other problem is the best way to bolt the camper to the tray.
So far its a toss up between ss turnbuckles with collared eye bolts or bolting the camper directly through the tray floor.
Its stays in place quite well with a couple of rachet straps.
Neither option is perfect for various reasons

It has wind up legs for easy removal. The legs can stay in place on the road and the camper can be left behind as a stand alone unit at a camping ground.



Vehicle is a 95 Landcruiser 75 series with a 1HZ diesel and 5 sp

http://img264.imageshack.us/img264/1225/alloycamper002mediumvg2.jpg


http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/5835/alloycamper007mediumve4.jpg


http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/3839/alloycamper008mediumyr5.jpg



http://img264.imageshack.us/img264/7218/alloycamper001mediumsy5.jpg

I hate to make stupid small comments in pic threads, but that ^ is friggin cool man.

Still have a lot of plans for her, but here's what I've got so far (Locked 97 FZJ80)

http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/FZJBedLinedBumpers7.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/FZJBedLinedBumpers10.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/FZJBedLinedBumpers8.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/fzjwiringdone5.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/sonyxavw1installpix9.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/superwinchinstalldayone9.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/supawinchinstallwiring10.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/fzj80airbagtrailer3.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/monstercartontrailerfzjwheels.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/monstercartontrailerfzjwheels2.JPG



98 Aztek T/A WS7 (FOR SALE!!) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCCmPcMlZSU)
70 Ram Air IV T/A (http://community.webshots.com/album/24092276OJKrbnMEGT)
97 FZJ80 Locked (http://www.ls2.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=503832&perpage=25&pagenumber=2)
00 Lifted G16E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRecGUQYM9g)
GhettoChopper(FOR SALE!!) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3e-FIEGsxSk)
94 Mitsubishi MiniCab (SOLD!!) (http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/mitzminicabblingbling2.JPG)
07 Ghetto Quad (SOLD!!) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cT3XFv9pPxI)

I hate to make stupid small comments in pic threads, but that ^ is friggin cool man.

Thanks man . I cant take credit for the build . I got it from a dealer who took it as a trade in.
I wish I could fab something like this.
Im take it on a shakedown cruise nex week,can hardly wait:smokin:

this is our expedition/tow vehicle. we will sometimes drop the camper at the trail head and hit the easy scenic trails in the superduty. the truck is a 2002 f250 super cab short bed super duty lariat. has every option but moon roof. v10/4r100. it has f350 crewcab longbed hd springs all around. dana 60 front, sterling rear with locker and 3.73's. 33 inch toyo open country at's.
8.5 mpg's at 60mph fully loaded at 16500 lbs. camper is a 2004 travel lite 890sbrx. has toilet, shower, 13,500 btu ac, 20,000 btu furnace, 5cu ft 3 way fridge, dual batterys, stove, oven, north shouth queen bed, full dinette bed.
usually the jeep takes the real abuse though.
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o255/joe_jeep/camperralley071.jpg
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o255/joe_jeep/camperralley080.jpg

Is that a mailbox?
http://i33.tinypic.com/i385jk.jpg

Is that a mailbox?
http://i33.tinypic.com/i385jk.jpg


Yes sir :grinpimp:


http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/FZJmailbomb.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/FZJmailbomb2.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/mailboxroofwiring.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/mailboxroofwiring3.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/mailboxroofwiring7.JPG


I needed a dirt cheap weather resistant container with easy access....

Might look weird, but it gets the job done :smokin:

What exactly is the equipment in it doing please?

Looks like a compressor and solenoid pack for his train horns.

What exactly is the equipment in it doing please?

Compressor is for the OBA system, suck/blow cooling fans in a sealed container allow it to run constantly for airtool usage, relays control air solenoids and each set of rack lights....

Everything is wired to the interior using OEM style switches and all rack wiring is hidden within the pipes...

Very cool. I'll have to keep that in mind next time I need storage space. :beer:

here is my frontier.... mildly equipped at the time, but i can equip it with everything i need to dissappear for a week or so. food, tent, couple gerri cans, spare, simple tools, winch, hilift, shovel, straps. basic stuff.
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/mike1809/IMG_2222.jpg

this is what i sleep in. folds up into a neat 3'x3'x10" square.
http://www.grangerscampingworld.com.au/products_pictures/2008kampriteoversizelarge.jpg

What exactly is the equipment in it doing please?

Looks like the compressor fills those two air tanks, probably to run various air tools, and those three huge air horns. :laughing:

just out of curiousity why not put that under and save all that room above for storage?

just out of curiousity why not put that under and save all that room above for storage?

There's no room underneath for tanks this large and even if there was, I wouldn't want to risk them getting snagged on the rocks :eek: (kaboom!!)

Up top, they're safe, accessible and I still throw lots of crap on top of them :grinpimp:


http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/fathersdayfzjoba.JPG
http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/fathersdayfzjcatalex.JPG

here is my frontier.... mildly equipped at the time, but i can equip it with everything i need to dissappear for a week or so. food, tent, couple gerri cans, spare, simple tools, winch, hilift, shovel, straps. basic stuff.
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i38/mike1809/IMG_2222.jpg

this is what i sleep in. folds up into a neat 3'x3'x10" square.
http://www.grangerscampingworld.com.au/products_pictures/2008kampriteoversizelarge.jpg

Any more pics of your set up or a build up thread? (here or somewhere else)

that HJ is sweet as hell... how long is the box on the back?

nice job on the mailbox and the air stuff up top, why the fabric over the train horns? any problems with the compressor, relays, etc being closed up in a black box on ther roof of your truck? I saw the cooling fan, maybe that is enough....

nice job on the mailbox and the air stuff up top, why the fabric over the train horns? any problems with the compressor, relays, etc being closed up in a black box on ther roof of your truck? I saw the cooling fan, maybe that is enough....



Thanx :)

During lovebug season, I cover the horns with screens so they don't get clogged up :shaking:

http://www.fuelslut.net/ihost/files/123/fzjlovebugs.JPG

Not that they effect the sound cause the air just blasts them out all over the hood (or interior if I have the moonroof open), but the acidic bug juice will actually deteriorate the silicone seals that hold the diaphragms in place :(


No problems at all with the compressor :smokin:

The cooling is MORE than adequate :)

In fact, I contacted ViAir long before the install (I had the same compressor wih a similar setup installed on a previous vehicle that was totalled) and told them my plans for doubling the recommended storage capacity....

At first, they said that doing so would void the warranty, but if that I should be ok with minimal use...

So for a bench test, I filled one empty tank with an exposed compressor and when it hit 150psi, the head was hot enough to sizzle spit :eek:

Then I filled two empty tanks with the fans running (suck/blow) in the closed mailbox and when hit 150psi, the head was cool enough to rest my cheek on :)

When I showed ViAir the results of my setup, they actually gave me the ok to run it constantly :grinpimp:

very cool (no pun intended) :D

Hi all

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d45/Basia678/Utha/utah032.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d45/Basia678/misc/J123007.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d45/Basia678/canada%202007/Mypictures432_0001.jpg

I dont think anyone posted this yet but I came across a new Earthroamer Rubi JK on Ebay and its worth checking out... look through all the pics.
http://images5.ecarlist.com/photos/1133_148411/640/05.jpg

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=280265144641

nice rig, that tent doesnt look like much and would suck in bad weather, even with an external cover of some kind. would also be nice to have support legs underneath it and close that space in for showering, changing, toilet, cooking, etc..

EDIT: and it needs a good diesel engine option, not the one from the KJ Liberty

Anyone ever thought of using a 03' - 05' Toyota Tundra, I am not exactly sure what years came with the power rear window. What I was thinking is a 4 door Tundra with the roll down back window and a topper on the bed. This would give you better access to the cab while you sleep in the bed. Maybe a 2" or 3" lift, nothing huge so you could keep all the toyota reliability.

IMO, an expedition rig should be capable of.

1) 300 mile round trip without refueling
2) capable of starting itself with a dead battery
3) cary spare parts, able to fix without calling napa.
4) able to go ANWHERE you want. (capable 4x4)
5) repair flat tires.. i.e. spares, patches, plugs OBA.
6) Cary food, gear, and multipel people

:smokin:

This is so far, the best explanation of an expedition rig I've seen yet. I've been living in my deuce and toyota truck for most of this year. I always have two months of food, water, and supplies on hand. I also have 50 spare gallons of filtered waste veggie oil in the deuce and the tank will hold another 50 giving me an 800 mile range. If for some reason, it shits the bed, I can unhook the toyota and go another 400 miles for supplies. If the toyota shits the bed, I can drop the XR250 off the back and go another 200 miles. I can camp long term out of any of the three vehicles. I know this combo works because I've been on an expedition for ten months and have had basically no problems. Absolute reliability and simplicity with two backup plans is the best way to go! I would not hesitate to go anywhere in the world with this setup. If I could only get a diesel for my toyota at a reasonable price, everything would be perfect!

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z112/mdd0127/New%20Adventure/Spotbybarn3.jpg

Here's mine. 95 Montero SR with factory locker in the rear and an ARB in the front. ARB bumper with a 1200lb Mile marker. Its never let me down. Multiple trips including Spike, Pritchets, etc in Moab, Martinez canyon in AZ and The Con. Always driven to and from the trail.

http://homepage.mac.com/zone1wst/.Pictures/wheelin/rub4.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/zone1wst/.Pictures/wheelin/hir12.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/zone1wst/.Pictures/wheelin/pritchet5.jpg

This is so far, the best explanation of an expedition rig I've seen yet. I've been living in my deuce and toyota truck for most of this year. I always have two months of food, water, and supplies on hand. I also have 50 spare gallons of filtered waste veggie oil in the deuce and the tank will hold another 50 giving me an 800 mile range. If for some reason, it shits the bed, I can unhook the toyota and go another 400 miles for supplies. If the toyota shits the bed, I can drop the XR250 off the back and go another 200 miles. I can camp long term out of any of the three vehicles. I know this combo works because I've been on an expedition for ten months and have had basically no problems. Absolute reliability and simplicity with two backup plans is the best way to go! I would not hesitate to go anywhere in the world with this setup. If I could only get a diesel for my toyota at a reasonable price, everything would be perfect!

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z112/mdd0127/New%20Adventure/Spotbybarn3.jpg



Sure would like to see some pictures of the inside of that deuce you got there!!:)

Anyone ever thought of using a 03' - 05' Toyota Tundra, I am not exactly sure what years came with the power rear window. What I was thinking is a 4 door Tundra with the roll down back window and a topper on the bed. This would give you better access to the cab while you sleep in the bed. Maybe a 2" or 3" lift, nothing huge so you could keep all the toyota reliability.

The power rear window started in the 04 double cabs.

Lots still to do but the XJ is getting there.

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d24/ExpeditionXJ/DSC_1491.jpg

here's mine, needs a winch and new rocksliders but it's got everything else.
http://pics.montypics.com/toasty/2007-09-22/1190530505_dscf1413.jpg

I'd love to get my hands on one of those nissan patrols with the diesel for an expedition rig:smokin:

This made my me drool and dream about driving away in this

This made my me drool and dream about driving away in this

The jeep version that was just a little ways down is owned by the owner of i think its called "back country off-road(They had a booth)" and he was saying it cost him around 120K:eek:

The jeep version that was just a little ways down is owned by the owner of i think its called "back country off-road(They had a booth)" and he was saying it cost him around 120K:eek:

You might be thinking the Turtle rig pictured is an Earthroamer --> http://www.earthroamer.com/
It's not, it's a custom job constructed mostly by a married couple that have built 4 previous versions of expo-rigs. This is the 5th variation, hence the "Turtle V" designation.

Hi all

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d45/Basia678/Utha/utah032.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d45/Basia678/misc/J123007.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d45/Basia678/canada%202007/Mypictures432_0001.jpg

what size tire u running? i'm debating between 33's or 35's

I like that tray (as you call it). Checked out the www.campingWA.com website shown on the back of it, but that isn't the mfg. Any idea who makes that and where to contact them?

There is 3-4 companies making them in western australia alone.
Roscos Trademate
Bull motor body builders
Bosston Canopys

I doubt you will want one.They sre about $8k for a good one and shipping would be a killer

Thanks for the company names. Couldn't find a website for Bosston, but found the other two:

http://www.roscos.com/
http://www.bullmotorbodies.com.au/

As you say, importing one wouldn't be economically feasible. More just looking for more pictures to get an idea of how it goes together for ideas on how to fabricate one for myself.

Canadian company/importer located in British Columbia, closer than Australia anyway. :)

http://www.oztray.com/contact.htm

Thanks for the company names. Couldn't find a website for Bosston, but found the other two:

http://www.roscos.com/
http://www.bullmotorbodies.com.au/

As you say, importing one wouldn't be economically feasible. More just looking for more pictures to get an idea of how it goes together for ideas on how to fabricate one for myself.

This ones built especially for camping and has 2 compartments but the build method is much the same as all the others.Some of them glue the outer skin to the frame.The sleeping compartment has a fold down platform with canvass to enclose for extra length.
They are almost universally built as a 6'x8'

http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/7940/westdalerock009mediumiv6.jpg

This pic shows inside the storage compartment.

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/8108/westdalerock010mediumch2.jpg

Many thanks for the pics. Is that last one fiberglass over an aluminum frame? I see the ones that are all aluminum but that one and the one I originally posted about aren't the "squared off" shape. Or is it some other sort of composite panel of some sort?

Many thanks for the pics. Is that last one fiberglass over an aluminum frame? I see the ones that are all aluminum but that one and the one I originally posted about aren't the "squared off" shape. Or is it some other sort of composite panel of some sort?

Thats all aluminium.They probably bend them in a sheetmetal press.
They were all flat sided once with exposed hinges ,but competition to make the most asthetic shape is feirce.
The govt and phone companies are big buyers of these.

I know there is one ,maybe 2 companies experimenting with a new type of polymer and F/G

This is one made by Trackdata Campers( no website)
I wanted one of these but couldnt afford it,but it really is the best in this kind of camper.
It is all aluminium and fully welded.
The other side is also for storage.

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/5112/perth4wdshow2006001medidv0.jpg

Not the most purdy but I built the trailer in a weekend and it worked great for the week that we used it. Picked up the frame off of craigs list for 80 bones and have about 200 in it to date. Going to "rebuld" this winter. It's attached to the SUB right now but it tows well behind the 4 Runner.
Plans call for a perminant lantern post, rebuilding the frame (the axle isn't square on the frame), and generally improving on the design in many places. The top opens up like a book and becomes the kitchen. The cooking surface it too tall for my 5' wife to see what she's cooking. lol.
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg253/KnAph0t0s/Camp%20Gear%20Trailer/IMG_1699.jpg
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg253/KnAph0t0s/Camp%20Gear%20Trailer/IMG_1899.jpg
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg253/KnAph0t0s/Camp%20Gear%20Trailer/IMG_1900.jpg
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg253/KnAph0t0s/Camp%20Gear%20Trailer/IMG_1901.jpg
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg253/KnAph0t0s/4Runner%20project/IMG_1898.jpg

This is one made by Trackdata Campers( no website)
I wanted one of these but couldnt afford it,but it really is the best in this kind of camper.
It is all aluminium and fully welded.
The other side is also for storage.

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/5112/perth4wdshow2006001medidv0.jpg

Any more info on that one? It looks great!!!
Price, weight of the unit, etc. etc???

These are some of the pics the owner of the company sent me.
He only makes a few a month I think.
Price is about $18k He told me the price of aluminium has gone through the roof.
I think the weight is about 500kg.
The landcruisers in the pics are good for about 1000kg


http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/662/dscf3002uq2.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/4993/imgp2533uq8.jpg

http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/4679/dscf0055uk5.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/4831/dscf1028ty7.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/4993/imgp2533uq8.jpg

It took me a bit to notice that most of these setups are a flatbed with the "camper" bolted to it in some way. That idea is really growing on me.

Here in the US the "standard" is to have a pickup bed with a fiberglass or aluminum cap that sits on top of the bed rails:
http://www.leer.com/importgallery/tundracrewcab100r.jpg

Slide-in campers don't seem to be as popular as they once were, but you still see them:
http://www.six-pac.com/images/fit1.jpg

But the problem is that you are somewhat limited by the narrow width of the bed and then the camper hangs out over the bed rails.

Then you have utility bodies that replace the pickup bed:
http://www.utecequip.com/admin/catalog/images/P1010119.jpg

Mostly, these are for full-size duallies. And the problem is that they can limit you when it comes time to carry something large.

The flatbed tray with the "container" setup seems to be a much better idea. With the fold-down/removable sides, you can carry items and don't have to worry about fitting them between the wheelwells:
http://www.boltonsengineering.com.au/images/rimg2148.jpg

Slide your camper in when you need it. And you could even come up with different bodies for different uses. The camper body vs. the utility body or such.

It took me a bit to notice that most of these setups are a flatbed with the "camper" bolted to it in some way. That idea is really growing on me.

The flatbed tray with the "container" setup seems to be a much better idea. With the fold-down/removable sides, you can carry items and don't have to worry about fitting them between the wheelwells:


Slide your camper in when you need it. And you could even come up with different bodies for different uses. The camper body vs. the utility body or such.

Im firmly sold on them:grinpimp:
Ive noticed there is 2-3 companies in North America making aluminium trays now,so I guess the idea is catching on.
The company that made my tray also sell water tanks,tool/jack storage,battery racks that fit underneath.
The space in between the wheel wells,under the tray is a good place for spare tyres,tools or other heavy items.
There are now slide out storage trays that fit beteen the wheels wells and underneath the top tray also.

Having the tray at waist height means you can lift things off the tray without the awkard bending of the back:mad3:

If you make the dropsides strong enough,they can used as ramps for quads or cement mixers etc;)

Im firmly sold on them:grinpimp:


Me too!
They are way more useful than a standard pickup bed. And the big thing with me was the wasted space you see with the slide-in campers on a stock bed.
You lose a lot at the lower part of the camper, and storage space outside of the camper also.
I have heard of a company that makes enclosures for a standard camper around the bottom. So if you have a slide-in and a flat deck, you get a squared-off look with basically storage boxes lining the bottom of both sides.
But, your interior space isn't improved.

I'm hoping that the flat-deck/trays get more popular in N. America, and then the flat-bottomed campers will follow maybe???

I'm hoping that the flat-deck/trays get more popular in N. America, and then the flat-bottomed campers will follow maybe???

There is a business opportunity begging;)

There is a business opportunity begging;)

In terms of starting a new business where your primary market is the recreational vehicle crowd, now would not be my preferred point to jump into that arena. :laughing:

This is one I saw at a show a while back. It was custom built for the editor of a local 4wd rag and I think he has about $80k in it inc the cost of the V8 diesel landcruiser.

http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/6558/79series007mediumkk7.jpg



http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/7279/79series005mediumgk1.jpg

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/8576/79series006mediumpn1.jpg

Holy Picture Size batman, can you shrink those a bit!
:eek:

im diggin those spare tire carriers

im diggin those spare tire carriers

Did you notice they have gas struts for lift? He demonstrated them while I was there and they only need fingertip control:grinpimp:

Did you notice they have gas struts for lift? He demonstrated them while I was there and they only need fingertip control:grinpimp:

That's a great setup that would be really helpful with a larger truck with heavy-ass tires. ;)

That tire rack detail is pretty slick! Have to file that idea away as well.

Not quite yet an Expedition Vehicle, but it's coming along.......


http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u268/LeadDoggy/E350/002.jpg

I always thought 4wd vans were a neat alternative for expo. I didn't know anyone was still making a 4wd van. cool.

http://img361.imageshack.us/img361/6734/l5eedf3e432f3d6af4774e7ps0.jpg



and this is what happens when you aren't paying attention/going too fast up the dunes in algeria ;) (i was not the driver!)

http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/7343/l6689fddea172fc1febc4d2tb6.jpg

I always thought 4wd vans were a neat alternative for expo. I didn't know anyone was still making a 4wd van. cool.

The up-fitter industry still does 4x4 conversions "van conversion most popular". More that one firm does the gm ifs which looks factory.

This is from a couple of summers ago. Mine is the Rover but it's a little different now. Awning is drooped because it's anchored in wet sand.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/3090212686_d1c6cfdb3b.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3139/3090213134_5b18a11e11.jpg?v=0

hot damn this thread is making me want to go another direction all together on my rig! you guys have some killer creations.

These are all really f'n awesome rigs in their own right. Besides the one-ton of fun post here, anyone else build a rig from ground up?

you all have some nice set ups!

Subscribing to gawk

Let's see more 4wd vans!

Saw one today (van) in midtown ATL could not get the camera fast enough, as he was going the other way. It was kinda ugly, like a dark brown with a black stripe. No graphics, plain wheels and tires, maybe 31s, mild lift, etc. The body was Ford and looked about 7-8 years old. There was an older man driving it.. kinda weird to see in the city..

This is what I'm going to build up. Don't laugh! :laughing: My plan is to ship it to Austrailia and drive the outback.

Chris

If you ever do that, let me know if you need help with anything in getting here ect, doing central australia is amazing, but you cant leave the rest of the place out, you can never see it all

I prefer the simplistic route (although with age, I may go for the more plush option of great rigs I am seeing here)...2002 Land Rover Defender TD5 (Turbo Diesel 5 cyl, modified to pump ~195hp and 300lb.ft.):

On a 4 day trip in the "Empty Quarters" desert in the Arabian Penninsula:

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v265/173/43/772765505/n772765505_3596126_990.jpg

My "top" is a bush hat and sunscreen (SPF 60 if I remember...):

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v265/173/43/772765505/n772765505_3596101_814.jpg

Other Desert Rats (The 4 door Defender is a great expedition rig):

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v265/173/43/772765505/n772765505_3596090_7644.jpg

Hammock when the desert isn't windy:

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v265/173/43/772765505/n772765505_3596085_6053.jpg

Added features:
-5 gallon "black plastic bag" shower camp (these babies get nicely hot in 1hr there)
-60L fuel tank with 3 20L Jerry cans (total coverage is ~800km)
-20L Water Jerry can
-40L Engel Fridge
-2 Optimas
-Tools, straps, kinetic rope, 2 shovels, hi-lift, 6 aux lights, snorkel, bumpers F/R, rocksliders, under-body protection
-Roll cage
-Air Conditionning (even with the top down, it is GREAT!)
-2speaker iPod hook-up
-The usual camping gear (from my lightweight hiking stuff)

So all in all, fairly simple and reliable...

Cheers,
Nadim

Man those tray back rigs have got me to thinking. I love the spare tire racks on the last one anybody who has rassled a 37X12.5X16.5 will understand where I am coming from! A buddy of mine and his now ex went to Australia and he brought back 2 of the swag bags one a double bed and the other a single.

You from Winnipeg or manitoba. I ask because of the Samurai.

[/IMG]Here is a pic of my Unimog with removable camper. The box is from a 1962 Unimog 404 Radio/Ambulance shelter, shortened and modified to fit the 416 spider frame.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/23684032@N06/2736454517/

Here is a pic of my Unimog with removable camper. The box is from a 1962 Unimog 404 Radio/Ambulance shelter, shortened and modified to fit the 416 spider frame.


http://www.benzworld.org/forums/attachments/unimog/200433d1224341486-fugly-unimogs-you-asked-img_1944a_2_1.jpg

All we can see is a red x right now.
I copied 'n pasted, but you need to register to get into that site. :(

here's mine

Winner winner chicken dinner.

Not mine, but expedition proven - London to Capetown

http://www.savethepuffer.co.uk/images/exp1.jpg

http://www.savethepuffer.co.uk/images/exp3.jpg

It's on Ebay here (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130279029226)

Not mine, but expedition proven - London to Capetown

[/URL]


Thats a nice one!

Here's one I saw in Tahoe the other day, looks cool. More of a utilpedition.

Expedition rig? Looks like a lineman's van...

Here's mine.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/Rusty_clt/DV_Thanksgiving/DSCN0494.jpg


With the Gooney Bird in tow
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/Rusty_clt/DV_Fall_08/DSCN0963.jpg

Our modified pop-up tent trailer, AKA The Gooney Bird. It's not a go anywhere option but it will go a lot of places.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/Rusty_clt/Goony%20Bird/DSCN0919.jpg

Camping in Panamint Valley
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/Rusty_clt/DV_10_25_08/DSCN1032.jpg

On Top Of The World - Kokopelli Trail Expedition July 2008

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z21/shadow-warror/Kokopelli%20Trail%20Expedition/Kokopelli-75.jpg


It's pictures like this that make me hate living on the east coast. Not many places to explore that aren't paved around here.

Here's mine, I add a bit too it each year.

http://inlinethumb02.webshots.com/21953/2699750540044626909S600x600Q85.jpg (http://rides.webshots.com/photo/2699750540044626909AVSviy)

http://inlinethumb48.webshots.com/42799/2054700340044626909S600x600Q85.jpg (http://rides.webshots.com/photo/2054700340044626909CPpbvu)

http://www.pangolin4x4.com/pangolin4x4/garage/events/wytrip/images/Last%20Roll%20-%20101.jpg

Here's my long distance EXTC. (I guess that's EXpedition Truck Camper) Specifically set up for real expedition travel. What is that? Not just another way high rock crawler. (I've got one of those) A self contained, livable for a long time in any weather or any road conditions, self extractable, 4WD, not too complex vehicle.
650 miles on carried fuel. Power Loc rr diff. 6 speed manual trannie. 1700 pound Lance Lite camper: lighter, less tall, narrower than most campers, but still fully self contained. 15K Warn winch. Not bombed for reliability. 33x14.50-16" super single Mud Grappler tires on 12" wide rims. tread is even wider than advertised. Notice below how wide the rear tire tread is when pressure lowered to 17 lbs. Air compressor and a 20 lb. CO2 tank get the tires back up. Safety Seal tire kit. Complete recovery kit. Extra heavy duty springs and shocks. NOT lifted. There is plenty of clearance for 99% of 3rd world back roads, deserts and mountains.
The only downsides are:
1. Never, ever side hill.
2. You must travel slower and lower the tire pressure if the road surface is awful.

http://i194.photobucket.com/albums/z240/jefe4x4/DSCN1095.jpg

http://i194.photobucket.com/albums/z240/jefe4x4/DSCN1091.jpg

http://i194.photobucket.com/albums/z240/jefe4x4/61b1a068.jpg

grinding up the almost trackless waste in Death Valley.

http://i194.photobucket.com/albums/z240/jefe4x4/DSCN1152.jpg
regards, as always, jefe

Thats a nice set up Jefe. The vehicle and camper compliment each others capabilties.
Its a waste of time putting a huge camper on a trail rig/rock crawler or putting something too light and too small on a full sized truck.

Whats the cruising speed?

Jefe, was curious why you didn't go with a camper that had a pop up roof (whatever the correct terminology is). Is there a specific reason (features?) that made the hard sided unit make more sense? Is the CoG not really that much different with a collapsible? Do you have any issues with picking an on-road route because of the overall height?

Just curious.

Great looking setup. I gotta get me something like that.

http://www.pangolin4x4.com/pangolin4x4/garage/events/wytrip/images/Last%20Roll%20-%20101.jpg

badass :smokin:

There are a few "pop-top" slide-in campers out there that are good quality.
The main benefits are they do indeed lower the COG, and also, lower the wind resistance when on the highway.
Drawback is the sides on the pop-up part are usually fabric -- not as good in the insulating ability as a fully hard-sided model. And in windy conditions, the fabric can flap a lot and be noisy. Another drawback from using them is the lack of load-carrying capacity on the roof, you can't just throw a bunch of gear up there, kids bikes, small boat etc. etc... Raising the top with only 100 pounds or so is a bit limiting, you'd have to clear everything off the roof every time you want to set the camper up for sleeping.
I have also heard that in the past, the mechanisms used to lift and lower the roof have been unreliable. Cables/gears get rusty, the roof doesn't lift properly, you get a high side and a low side blah blah blah...

Thing is, most of these problems were cause because of poor design of the project and execution in the build process. Using a poor design with poor quality parts gets you a poor product in the end.

A lot of the campers designed for the North American market seem to be built to somewhat low standards. They are just not that durable for more rugged use.
Of course, the majority of people in N. America that do camp with RV's and slide-ins tend to park in a flat field with electrical hookups and sit stationary. The machines barely ever leave a paved surface.

I do not want to stay on pavement. :D

Rosco,
Speed is no problem. On a 16,000 km trip to Alaska, we drove 110 kph a lot on most paved, straight flat roads. With 245 HP and 505 #Ft. of torque you can drive any speed you want, but be willing to pay for the reduced miles per gallon. That trip we travelled about 4000 km on gravel, dirt, and worse roads. You notice the mud guards on my truck. Very necessary on long stretch of gravel or dirt roads. The question is, what is the crawl ratio? 54:1 in low low. With the low end torque the Cummins makes, 54:1 is low enough.

Root,
I couldn't find a used pop up camper when I was looking. I got a good price on mine, and more importantly, it was available. There are (or were) 4 or 5 mfgrs. of pop ups (also called rag-sides, tent campers, collapsables) with some very nice features for extended back country travel. It is interesting that my bro's OUTFITTER! pop up weighs more than my little lance. It does have a less tall silhouette, for less wind resistance, and a slightly lower COG, but all that metal sissor hardware comes at a cost of more weight. My bro's rig is maybe 8 inches shorter than my Lance, but 4 inches wider. On the truck, my EXTC is right at 10 feet tall. On occasion, I find a trail that I cannot pass over due to less than 10 feet clearance. More than once, I've had to dismount and use my trusty buck saw (or chain saw when I have it along) to increase the roadway's height clearance to allow me to pass.
To incurr maximum side clearance, you'll notice I leave the camper jacks at home.

My current rig is not my first attempt at an EXPVEH. It's simply the latest evolution. First one was my trusty 49 Willys Utility Wagon (Chevy V-8, Studebaker overdrive, springs-over-axle SOA, 5.38's, wide tires and wheels) in 1965!. Yes, I'm a 'Pedo Viejo'. When I did my first SOA, I saw only one other one, some 44 years ago. That rig did many a Baja expedition, back in the day when there was NO pavement. Next came a 1966 FJ-40 Toyota Land Cruiser (factory pto winch, matching jeep trailer), then a 1970, FJ55 (bigger Chevy V-8, Power Loc diff, 8274, 4" spring lift, 11.50x15 True Tracs, Tomba Burro, added PS, AC, roof rack, matching Toyota jeep trailer). We carried 3 spare tires when doing Baja in the early 70's and had 7 flat tires on that one trip! One day we drove 125 miles south from San Felipe to Puertocitos, right on the beach, following each cove and jetty. It had a 53 gallon gas tank and I carried 4 jerry cans besides. I drove that rig 14 years and 165,000 miles. What a great rig. I just wore it out.
By now, I was starting to see that big horsepower was a negative for an expveh. All that power tries to break drivetrain parts. One needs something with not so much H.P. but with lots of torque down low.
So, the next incarnation was a 1980 International Scout Traveller (118" WB, full hard top, PS, PB, AC, Limited slip rr diff., SOA, 33x12.50-15's) The only year they offered a Nissan, 6 cyl, 3.3L Turbo diesel as an option. AKA: "The Boat anchor". I took it. 101 neck snapping H.P. with gobs of torque down low, matched to a Borg Warner T-19, full synchro, 4 speed truck transmission. This was a great expedition rig. We got about 200,000 miles on this one.
Following that I bought a Jeep CJ8, which I still have and turned into a hardcore rock crawler, as my kids were grown up and gone, so a big family expedition vehicle was not on the radar anymore. Around this time I owned a couple Jeep XJ's, which make great expveh's. I rolled one off a cliff in Telluride, CO. 125 feet down, 5 rolls, first one an endo, and the following 4 were barrel rolls. It took two tow trucks 6 hours to retrieve the rig.
Which brings me to the Dodge pickup with a small, light hardside camper as maybe the final installment in my search for the perfect expedition vehicle.
If i can get some old pics 'colorized' i'll try to post some of my oldies but goodies on here.
Malarimo: loosely translated from Spanish: bad to get to. In 1977, we did a trip to a beach off the remote hook of Baja that is reputed to be the flotsam and jetsam capitol of the world. Anything that floats the world's oceans long enough, winds up here. Old shipwrecks, whale skeltons, cans, and bottles with who knows what language printed on them. The track to get there is more than 150 miles on two track. About in the middle of the route is a small Rancho: Rancho San Jose Del Castro. Circa 1880 Cowboys and subsistence at it's best. Oh, and did I mention this route goes through the center of the fabled Desierto Visciano, one of the dryest places on the planet. Nothing, nothing grows over 6" from the ground, if at all. Manyt years get zero rain. Sand, lots of sand. Rocky ground. Almost flat. A few arroyos, one we took down to the beach at Malarimo. Hugely lonely.
I hope it's still there.
I'm afraid I'm a true 'elder of the tribe' of you that love that expedition vehicle experience.
regards, as always, jefe

Here is mine, a 1963 Jeep J300. Cummins 4BT, NV4500, NP200, D60/D70. It's no rock crawler - I tried to build a vehicle with a low COG and decent ground clearance that could carry a decent load reliably and not have to worry about carrying too many spares. Decent power (Faster than my Honda Civic :eek:) and economy (23-25MPG), and I could not break this drivetrain if I tried.

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn223/bw1339/DSC04255.jpg

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn223/bw1339/DSC04260.jpg

Jefe, I'm in awe (honestly, I'm not being a smart ass).

Would love to see those old photos if it isn't a bother.

this is my ford explorer sport 2001 in quebec st-donat

http://i61.servimg.com/u/f61/12/81/50/58/dsc_0310.jpg (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=52&u=12815058)

http://i61.servimg.com/u/f61/12/81/50/58/dsc_0210.jpg (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=53&u=12815058)

http://i61.servimg.com/u/f61/12/81/50/58/dsc_0211.jpg (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=54&u=12815058)

...
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll160/mds0010/PC290068.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll160/mds0010/DSC_0216.jpg
http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll160/mds0010/DSC_0168-1-1.jpg

Here is mine, a 1963 Jeep J300. Cummins 4BT, NV4500, NP200, D60/D70. It's no rock crawler - I tried to build a vehicle with a low COG and decent ground clearance that could carry a decent load reliably and not have to worry about carrying too many spares. Decent power (Faster than my Honda Civic :eek:) and economy (23-25MPG), and I could not break this drivetrain if I tried.

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn223/bw1339/DSC04255.jpg

http://i305.photobucket.com/albums/nn223/bw1339/DSC04260.jpg

The only weak link I see is the tires, those won't like sharp rocks jabbing the sidewalls!:eek:

Cool none the less

The only weak link I see is the tires, those won't like sharp rocks jabbing the sidewalls!:eek:

Cool none the less


It's a work in progress :)

Now that the rig is built I'm working on all the "self contained" stuff. I have master plan for the entire bed, to keep secure for 1st out of country trip.

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v354/100/2/685053217/n685053217_955998_9175.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v371/147/24/1474992336/s1474992336_76218_9367.jpg

http://photos-b.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v650/147/24/1474992336/s1474992336_144089_8036.jpg



Got ft winch on, still working on the rear winch. Finsihed 1/2 doors, would love a full size spare- so it will go on top of the bed system when done, just bed rail high. Still working on under truck storage of my spare d-shaft (fits ft and rear), 4 spare axles, 2 burfs, and spare 3rd. Hope to go into Mexico by summer!:D

Heres mine on the same wheeling trip has godin. Ford ranger 03 Level II
http://i346.photobucket.com/albums/p431/jeeprubicon/Trail%20St-Donat%2012-10-2008/IMG_1637.jpg

and all pack for a week of atv
http://i339.photobucket.com/albums/n462/protila2000/1%20semaine%20de%20vtt/weir08-2008004.jpg

Bodylift installed
http://i339.photobucket.com/albums/n462/protila2000/bodylift/bodylift001.jpg