Is This Even a Thing? New to Overlanding

[CJMACK]

So, I’m retiring soon and plan to get a lightly used 4Runner and build it so that I can go to wild places that are off the beaten path. My interest is not technical trails or challenging myself to see how many times I can get stuck in mud and snow. I just want a very capable vehicle to get me to scenic far away places safely and reliably. I’ve enjoyed backpacking and car camping but I want the convenience of taking the comfort items and RTT that a robust 4WD vehicle will allow. If you’re familiar with the kind of travel that Chris Shontz does on the YouTube channel ”Adventure 4WD“ that’s what I’m talking about, but not full time as he does. I plan to start getting out there as soon as I get the 4Runner and gradually expand my horizons as I get experience handling it off road and get it more and more built out in the way I’d like. I have zero off road driving experience and have never owned a 4WD car or truck.

I realize that the stock 4Runner is a pretty capable SUV but I would envision eventually having the following kinds of mods not in this particular order...
- A 2 or 3 inch lift
- larger tires (not sure if I’d need or want 35s or if 33s will do)
- rear bumper (probably with dual swing outs)
- a versatile roof rack
- rock sliders

Of lesser importance, but still seeming great to have would be onboard air, a front bumper, maybe some enhanced light options and probably a winch. Maybe some armor underneath? To be clear, I know from reading these forums that I don’t “need” all this.

I’m not a moron, but I’m not a “car guy“. I’m not confident in my ability to install a suspension lift, or rip out the rear bumper and put a new one in. I have watched videos of professionals doing these things, but generally those aren’t how-to videos with step by step instruction. I want to be able to diagnose problems and make basic repairs when I am in remote places. Hoping I don’t get some stock responses about being stupid because I’m not a capable auto mechanic. I’m aware of my limitations and trying to address them.

My perfect scenario would be to find an off-road fabrication shop that would do the installations I plan and allow me to learn from them while they do the install. I’d be thrilled to actually help with the install but would be content to merely watch and learn. Is this even a thing? Would any fabricator do this? My thought is that I want to build a relationship with the shop so that I could rely on their input and recommendations as to exactly what equipment would work best to get the build I am seeking.

Doing it this way, I get the overlander I want and I get smarter about it at the same time. Again, is this even a thing?

 

[phsycle]

So, I’m retiring soon and plan to get a lightly used 4Runner and build it so that I can go to wild places that are off the beaten path. My interest is not technical trails or challenging myself to see how many times I can get stuck in mud and snow. I just want a very capable vehicle to get me to scenic far away places safely and reliably. I’ve enjoyed backpacking and car camping but I want the convenience of taking the comfort items and RTT that a robust 4WD vehicle will allow. If you’re familiar with the kind of travel that Chris Shontz does on the YouTube channel ”Adventure 4WD“ that’s what I’m talking about, but not full time as he does. I plan to start getting out there as soon as I get the 4Runner and gradually expand my horizons as I get experience handling it off road and get it more and more built out in the way I’d like. I have zero off road driving experience and have never owned a 4WD car or truck.

I realize that the stock 4Runner is a pretty capable SUV but I would envision eventually having the following kinds of mods not in this particular order...
- A 2 or 3 inch lift
- larger tires (not sure if I’d need or want 35s or if 33s will do)
- rear bumper (probably with dual swing outs)
- a versatile roof rack
- rock sliders

Of lesser importance, but still seeming great to have would be onboard air, a front bumper, maybe some enhanced light options and probably a winch. Maybe some armor underneath? To be clear, I know from reading these forums that I don’t “need” all this.

I’m not a moron, but I’m not a “car guy“. I’m not confident in my ability to install a suspension lift, or rip out the rear bumper and put a new one in. I have watched videos of professionals doing these things, but generally those aren’t how-to videos with step by step instruction. I want to be able to diagnose problems and make basic repairs when I am in remote places. Hoping I don’t get some stock responses about being stupid because I’m not a capable auto mechanic. I’m aware of my limitations and trying to address them.

My perfect scenario would be to find an off-road fabrication shop that would do the installations I plan and allow me to learn from them while they do the install. I’d be thrilled to actually help with the install but would be content to merely watch and learn. Is this even a thing? Would any fabricator do this? My thought is that I want to build a relationship with the shop so that I could rely on their input and recommendations as to exactly what equipment would work best to get the build I am seeking.

Doing it this way, I get the overlander I want and I get smarter about it at the same time. Again, is this even a thing?

I haven’t seen that YouTube channel but just browsing through it and FF through some of the videos, I’d say a stock 4Runner would be able to handle it. My motto has been to keep it as stock as possible. When you lift, CV’s, driveline, etc. all are affected. Larger tires (esp 33”+), range suffers, as well as power.

I’d keep it stock and head out. Maybe get some all-terrain tires in 32’s.

Shops....guess it would be good to have a relationship with a good shop. But always remember they’re a business. They will sell you all the add-ons whether you need it or not. It’s their business.

All that said, while 4Runner is a good reliable SUV, think really hard about a full-size truck. They should fit down any of the trails I’ve seen on that video. It will be much more comfortable, especially on those long road excursions. And capacity will be much better. Lastly, versatility will be better as well, as you can go RTT, truck shell, or a slide in camper.

 

[Deleted member 9101]

Don't buy into the internet hype...you don't need a modified 4x4 to get where you are going. Slap on some quality all terrain tires and go enjoy some time out doors.

The only mod I would worry about is a rear locker if it doesn't have one and a front one if you feel like dropping the cash. 99% of the time the rest of the mods guys do is just expo farkle.

As mentioned above, you could also use a full size truck (which is what I would do) You'll have a stronger chassis, stronger suspension, more room, larger brakes, more power, same crappy fuel economy, and it will probably cost less.

Also, as many on here have said.... Most of the places you think you need a built rig to get too, someone already went there in a Honda Civic.

 

[Smileyshaun]

A lot of this will matter on what gen rig your looking at but But a small lift on a 4runner only involves about 10 bolts and a couple hours of work If you get loaded struts . I think it’s good to install your own lift so you know how the suspension works and how to take it apart if you ever run into a problem out in the wilderness.

 

[Smileyshaun]

A vehicle choice would also matter a lot depending on where you’re planning on traveling if your going to be dealing with tight trails in a dense forest smaller the better . Personally I’ve gone back and forth owning suvs and trucks and when the kids where more involved with stuff the suv was nice but I just find more utility with a truck and ability to handle gear without overloading the suspension and needing a complete overhaul to handle it .... loading stuff in a truck actually makes it ride better and the mpgs are about the same .

 

[DaveInDenver]

Also, as many on here have said.... Most of the places you think you need a built rig to get too, someone already went there in a Honda Civic.

It's humbling when this happens. But in some seriousness sometimes they get in but can't get them back out. Not to mention they aren't going to be a good long term solution without wearing them out. The more apt stereotype is the best off road vehicle is a rental car.

My approach to vehicle modification is to have it built enough that routine use isn't stressing or risking getting beyond yourself. A stock vehicle may turn out to be inadequate if the weather turns a nice track into a mud bog on your way back out.

So I try to stay on the right side of rock crawler but over the years I've dented stock skid plates, bumpers and rocker panels due to a rock rolling just right on a mild trail. Do this stuff enough and you'll most likely find yourself in a situation where a particular age-old solution gives up its "a-ha" moment of why it exists.

Yup, some of it is farkle for mall crawlers. That's always been true.

 

[charlieaarons]

I will second the rear locker. Unless it already has one.

 

[Willard27]

4Runner. I've done lifts on a 4th gen and a 5th gen so that 32" tires fit properly. You can do it. Chris on Venture4wd has the advantage of staying inside in bad weather. 4runner with interior sleeping option would do that. RTT in the wind, rain, snow can make for a long trip. Get an insulated hard top one if you do!

 

[CJMACK]

Very appreciative of all the replies so far.

 

[DaveInDenver]

It seems to me the core concept is there is no one single right or wrong approach. Almost all the stuff has a time and place where it becomes appropriate. Your particular situation will dictate this.

If you happen be familiar with perhaps bicycling or motorcycling the comparison I would make is a helmet, gloves, riding suits and pads. It's all extra weight until you crash.

Training of course helps tremendously and does to large extent render armor, lockers and lifts of lower importance. Those things are definitely crutches that allow less experienced drivers to get further than they might in a completely stock vehicle. But sometimes the gear is the critical puzzle piece, too.

I'm lucky in that I got into this a long time ago with experienced people willing impart wisdom and take a greenhorn on trails to show what works and what doesn't. It's a lot easier to take a stock truck and test its limits when you're traveling with a partner who has a built vehicle to provide the training and a winch or strap when you do exceed the limit. At that point you either realize you actually do need that X, Y or Z gadget or know next time you encounter a situation now know how to approach or avoid it as a driver.

That's what training with Frenchie or someone else gets for your buck.

 

[billiebob]

I’m not confident in my ability to install a suspension lift, or rip out the rear bumper and put a new one in.

Most of the quality parts have excellent instructions, don't just look at the price, find the one you understand and feel confident doing.

 

[Ovrlnd Rd]

Whatever vehicle you decide to get take the time to learn the basics of how to change things that are likely to break even on an easy trail - tires (obviously) I'll assume you know how to change one but do you know how to fix a puncture in the event you need more than one spare? Lots of good videos available on the web on how to use a tire repair kit. And get a decent one that has heavy duty tools in it not some $15.95 garbage (although it'll work in a pinch it won't last). Can you change a serpentine belt if your vehicle has one? Learn how. Alternator? Starter? Fuel pump (less likely as so many are in-tank now). Can you MacGyver things? I had an alternator bracket brake on me in the middle of the night in the middle of nowhere. I used a bungee cord to tighten it down and actually drove it that way for over a month. When in the field, field expediency is very important.

Lots of do dads are not important. I have a stock truck with the exception of a RTT and set of DECKED drawers. I don't mud bog, rock climb, or try to test my limits (which are limited) and I've made it home every time so far.

 

[CJMACK]

Great stuff from everyone. Tons of good suggestions. Thank you.

Just some additional information that might impact anyone else who wants to share their thoughts. I’ve changed a few dozen tires. Until the 90s I used to change my own oil fluids and filters. I’ve replaced worn out brake pads and belts. But I don’t have advanced automotive repair skills. If I have a transmission problem, or had some problem with the suspension I’d need help. I know plenty of people who know less about automotive repair than me, but if I’m going in remote place, I’d prefer to be more competent about most of the systems in the car. But me being knowledgeable about general automotive repair is actually a tangent to the main question.

The main thrust of my original post has to do with weather or not the guys I have doing vehicle mods for me (whenever that is and whatever mods those happen to be) would likely be inclined to allow me to get an education from them while they are doing the work. I fully realize that an off-road fabrication business is not a general “auto repair shop”. I’m not thinking that a guy installing a bumper for me is going to teach me about trouble shooting a sway bar problem or some issue with differential lockers. I get that.

But is it weird for me to ask to be involved in the install and thereby learn much more about any particular mod that I’m doing?

 

[plainjaneFJC]

So, I’m retiring soon and plan to get a lightly used 4Runner and build it so that I can go to wild places that are off the beaten path. My interest is not technical trails or challenging myself to see how many times I can get stuck in mud and snow. I just want a very capable vehicle to get me to scenic far away places safely and reliably. I’ve enjoyed backpacking and car camping but I want the convenience of taking the comfort items and RTT that a robust 4WD vehicle will allow. If you’re familiar with the kind of travel that Chris Shontz does on the YouTube channel ”Adventure 4WD“ that’s what I’m talking about, but not full time as he does. I plan to start getting out there as soon as I get the 4Runner and gradually expand my horizons as I get experience handling it off road and get it more and more built out in the way I’d like. I have zero off road driving experience and have never owned a 4WD car or truck.

I realize that the stock 4Runner is a pretty capable SUV but I would envision eventually having the following kinds of mods not in this particular order...
- A 2 or 3 inch lift
- larger tires (not sure if I’d need or want 35s or if 33s will do)
- rear bumper (probably with dual swing outs)
- a versatile roof rack
- rock sliders

Of lesser importance, but still seeming great to have would be onboard air, a front bumper, maybe some enhanced light options and probably a winch. Maybe some armor underneath? To be clear, I know from reading these forums that I don’t “need” all this.

I’m not a moron, but I’m not a “car guy“. I’m not confident in my ability to install a suspension lift, or rip out the rear bumper and put a new one in. I have watched videos of professionals doing these things, but generally those aren’t how-to videos with step by step instruction. I want to be able to diagnose problems and make basic repairs when I am in remote places. Hoping I don’t get some stock responses about being stupid because I’m not a capable auto mechanic. I’m aware of my limitations and trying to address them.

My perfect scenario would be to find an off-road fabrication shop that would do the installations I plan and allow me to learn from them while they do the install. I’d be thrilled to actually help with the install but would be content to merely watch and learn. Is this even a thing? Would any fabricator do this? My thought is that I want to build a relationship with the shop so that I could rely on their input and recommendations as to exactly what equipment would work best to get the build I am seeking.

Doing it this way, I get the overlander I want and I get smarter about it at the same time. Again, is this even a thing?

Chris is my favorite youtuber. His motto is keep it simple and he only buys what he uses. A 4 runner will do 80% of what he does, but that last 20 is gonna be difficult. Its common to see with using both lockers and swaybar disconnected. Granted a lot of those are trails you could avoid. I think an independent shop would let you watch while they work.

 

[DaveInDenver]

Mechanics sometimes get sensitive about having you in the shop watching and certainly I think aren't for the most part going to want to let you help. It'll slow them down when getting jobs in and out keeps the lights on.

Maybe offer to pay over book rate to have them help you do it after hours. Like Frenchie says, find a club. That's essentially what you're seeking.

My $0.02 is it's a lot better to learn in the driveway doing your own maintenance and modifications when the weather is nice and you're on a nice solid concrete pad. That way you have a good understanding of how it's supposed to work and crawling in the dirt and mud won't make it a true nightmare.