The journey of a lifetime or just a fun getaway on a long weekend? How you build your dream vehicle has a lot to do with how long you will travel in it. If you’ve got eyes on a full size globe trotting truck you’ll be surprised to know that the build cost could be on par with upgrading a 4x4 and it will go most of the same places.
What is the most critical thing when picking a base vehicle? Price, off road capability, cool factor. Well the truth is after you fill your truck to the brim with a kitchen, sleeping and utilities you're going to add a lot of weight. Your passengers will need a place to ride in comfort and you’re probably going to bring along a few toys.
The biggest factor in going big is total weight capacity (GVWR). Take the popular Toyota Tacoma for example. Fuel efficient, reliable decent freeway speeds, lots of aftermarket parts available. So many positives it looks like a winner out of the gate, but the truck isn’t really ready for rough country so you’re going to have to add a few things.
Disclaimer: not our truck, just an example
You think to yourself, it would be nice if you could get over a few more obstacles, so you upgrade your tires and probably the wheels as well. Then maybe a small 2-3” lift. While you’re out there you need a spot to sleep so of course a roof rack camper shell and roof top tent. Now you start to notice the truck bottoms out periodically and you’ve managed to crush the bumper on rocks. Time for metal front and rear bumpers, rock sliders, skid plates oh! and wouldn’t it be nice if the ice in the cooler didn’t swamp your steak? Got to get a 12v fridge. The list goes on and on including: winch, custom trays, lights, secondary electrical system, ect. At the end of several years of happy memories and rough camping trips you have a built rig you feel confident taking to remote locations but if we’re honest you’re still camping in a tent and pooping in the woods.
This is where your eyes start straying towards bigger trucks where you could take along a few more amenities like air conditioning and an indoor bathroom, you know the important things in life. When you see the price tag for a fully built rig at some overland show however; and now you're stopped dead in your tracks while you hyperventilate into a paper bag. Who has 1.5 million for a luxury condo on wheels? Don’t despair, you can build one on a budget and take exactly what you want along. The real surprise is the price is likely less than what you have already invested in your current truck, and the benefit is that it will end up being a fully customizable and swank space for you and your loved ones.
Disclaimer: not our truck, just an example
Follow us along our vehicle selection and build process to see how it’s done and maybe you too will take the plunge into building an expedition class vehicle. If nothing else, I hope you enjoy living vicariously through us as we build the dream of a lifetime.
Hozzászólások