Need advice & feedback: LC 100 1-3+ year expedition

[dhackney]

Due to a recent change from imminent sailboat circumnavigation to LC 100 overland exploration, I need to tap into the LC 100 and overland expedition communities' collective knowledge and experience. We are complete and total virgins in this area, so please be gentle.

Background:

• We have traveled extensively in and outside the U.S. on- and off-road by motorcycle (http://www.hackneys.com/travel/).
• Our standard load on the bike for unsupported (independent) travel is about 250 Liters / 8.9 cubic feet.
• Our primary reason for moving from the bike to another mode of transportation is to have sleeping and food storage/preparation capability

Current Needs:
1) input and advice on configuring a LC 100 for extended world exploration
2) referrals and recommendations for qualifed outfitters to prepare same
3) input and recommendations on proven stock and aftermarket equipment for same

---------------------

Trip length: 1-3+ years
Destinations: Central America, South America, SE Asia, possibly return to Bhutan & northern India. For full list of destinations click the “Going There” menu option at www.hackneys.com/travel
Timeline: Immediate, departure in mid to late May 2006 or as soon as we can take delivery of the vehicle
# of people: two
Pets: none
Travel mode: Independent exploration
Activities: Photography, hiking, interaction with local cultures, philanthropic programs (Giving Pictures – www.givingpictures.org , art/craft activities)

Mechaincal experience:
Wife: minimal, quick learner, capable of doing anything, learns best from demonstration/hands on instruction
Self: Maintained, built, re-built and deconstructed all of my own street and race vehicles and motorcycles until 1993. Experienced with down to the mains rebuilds from the 1950s-1970s era motors. Minimal manual transmission experience. Zero automatic transmission experience beyond changing fluids & filter. Minimal differential experience. No experience with modern EFI systems. Capable, quick learner, learn best from reference material and hands-on, self-guided experience. My attitude is I can fix anything if I have the manual, the tools and the parts or something I can make into a part. Fully equipped with all common non-factory-special tools, including pneumatic.



Vehicle requirements:

• Left hand drive
• Reliable
• International service network
• International parts availability
• Modern design
• Rugged
• Serviceable
• As comfortable as we can make it given these parameters

Fuel Type:

• Would prefer the MPG, simplicity and water crossing ease of diesel but can live with the quiet operation and wider fuel availability in most areas of gas / petrol.

Transmission:

• Can be manual or automatic. Simplicity and serviceability of manual is preferred.

Vehicle Capabilities:

• Reasonable ground clearance & suspension capabilities; we will not be rock climbing but will be seeking adventure, experiences and opportunities down small tracks and in remote villages. We anticipate water crossings, mud, sand, silt and very rough roads, tracks and trails. We are assuming front & front quarter bar guards, rock sliders, EMU suspension, lockers and rear bumper/spares/etc/combination, etc. We would prefer to be limited by our fears and common sense rather than our vehicle.
• Recoverability – we will be traveling alone, so require maximum self-recovery capability, i.e. winch(es), straps, pulleys, chains, sand anchors, sand ramps, etc.
• Basic sleeping and cooking capabilities; we will use the vehicle as a stand-by/backup sleeping & cooking system rather than our primary. Plan to sleep / cook in vehicle 30-40% of the time. Prefer proven and watertight top rack tent system with lower veranda/annex. Side mounting tent with hanging extension would be ideal. Would prefer to maintain access to rear of truck while tent and extensions are erected. Need camp-stove level cooking capability, i.e. no gourmet capability required.
• Side deploying awning, wind & weather safe
• Range of 250+ miles. Prefer internal aux tank rather than multiple external jerry cans. Need secure external capacity for at least two NATO jerry cans.
• Excellent, reliable lighting, i.e. fog lights, driving lights, etc.
• Refrigeration. Proven, reliable and rugged 12VDC. Freezer capable of making ice is a requirement.
• Fresh water for 4-6 days.
• Food storage capacity for 4-6 days.
• Accessory power: 12VDC, 120VAC & 240VAC (pure sine wave AC, regulated & filtered). Would prefer regulated solar cell charging capability for deep cycle aux battery.
• Personal storage: clothing; toiletries; laptop computers (2); wireless network router; disk drive data storage array; camera gear; photo printer & consumables (ink & paper); art & craft supplies;
• Storage organization - require slide out drawers, size matched containers, secure stacking containers, etc. Prefer metal pullout drawer system (Stow-More type) that can be locked to provide secure storage for electronics in case of casual/petty thief break-in.
• Security – require passive and active security, i.e. hood locking, manual ignition cut-off, cable/chain loops for locking off to trees, etc. This vehicle will be left unattended in remote areas.
• We would prefer to avoid pulling a trailer.

Storage volume requirements:

• Clothing – 80 liters (L) / ~2.8 cubic feet (CF)
• Shoes / jackets / etc. – 87 L / ~3 CF
• Primary camera gear – 84 L / ~3 CF
• Secondary camera gear – 45 L / ~1.6 CF
• Photo printer – 4 L / ~.14 CF
• Ink / paper – 80 L / ~2.8 CF
• Data storage – ~30 L / ~1 CF
• Maps / guides / etc. – ~40L / 1.41 CF
• Art / craft supplies – ~80 L / ~2.8 CF

Additional required capabilities / equipment / storage / etc.:

• Complete tube & tire repair & re-inflation capabilities.
• Two spare wheels & tires
• Hi-lift jack and corresponding jack points
• Complete vehicle spares kit, special focus on market specific spares, i.e. parts normally sold in US only
• Complete vehicle repair manuals & documentation
• Complete vehicle troubleshooting and repair tools (I can provide standard tools, will need any special Toyota tools required)
• Secure storage, i.e. integrated safe or hidden, lockable storage area
• External radio/sat phone/aerial cable runs
• 12VDC power run to top mounted tent
• Rear and side area lights
• Driver and passenger controllable spotlights and/or very high power handheld spotlight
• 2 camp chairs
• Misc. camp equipment

Electronics:

• Garmin GPSmap 478 (12VDC power & external antenna required)
• Iridium sat phone (external antenna & 12VDC power required)
• 2 laptops (12VDC & 120/240VAC power required) (can use either power source)
• 1 data storage array (120VAC power required)
• 1 wireless network bridge/router (120VAC power required)
• 1 Canon photo printer (12VDC or 120/240VAC power required)(can use either power source)
• Various Canon battery chargers (require 120/240VAC for one, others can use 12VDC or 120/240VAC)
• AA battery charger (120VAC power required)
• ORBCOMM satellite tracking/communications system (12VDC power required)
• Pure sine wave 12VDC/120VAC/240VAC inverter
• 120VAC/240VAC power regulator/surge filter
• Solar cell voltage regulator

Other:

• Training: Due to our lack of 4x4 experience, we will both require off-road driving, vehicle recovery, etc. training.
• Delivery: We would prefer to take delivery of the vehicle in North America and depart from there for Central America via Mexico. We can accept delivery elsewhere if required.
• Support: We prefer a vendor who can provide ongoing product support during the duration of our ownership experience.

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We welcome feedback on these vehicle requirements, etc.


Doug

 

[Scott Brady]

Doug,

First: Congratulations on the opportunity for further exploration. There certainly is a challenge and joy associated with building a vehicle, but the real reward comes from using it (as you no doubt know).

Vehicle Selection:

I like the choice of the UZJ100. Do you intend to purchase a new vehicle? The Tacoma is also an excellent choice, and provides similar reliability, though reduced durability. Fuel economy and storage also improves with the Tacoma.

Here is a trip report of my recent expedition into the Sierra Madre of Mexico with a 1999 UZJ100 Land Cruiser.

My experience has been that the minimal modifications to the core vehicle should be performed for the sake of reliability. There are a few exceptions, which I will note. Avoid the factory supercharger, engine modifications, etc. Use factory belts, hoses and air filters.

Recommended core vehicle modifications:

Suspension:
Old Man Emu Suspension: Rear OME863 Coils which allow a load increase of 4-500 lbs over stock. Up-rated torsion bar to accommodate bumper and winch loads. Maintain a lift height of less than 1.5" to retain sufficient extension travel. I will contact ARB to determine if the LTR remote reservoir shock is available (it is not listed for the UZJ100).

Differentials:
ARB locking differentials for increased case strength and reduced chance of diff failure (a reported issue with the UZJ100). The locking differentials are an important safety feature in extreme terrain, and a compliment to the traction control.

Protection:
The front of the vehicle must be protected from animal strikes and a minor accident. The radiator should be well protected. The ARB bull bar is the best choice here.

Rear protection and tire swing-out is also critical. Great offerings are available from Slee, Kaymar and ARB. The final choice should be a personal preference, though the Slee unit does provide better angles of departure.

Unless you plan to traverse VERY challenging terrain, I would avoid rocker protection to save payload remainder.

Tires: Avoid the urge to install big tires. Re-gearing the UZJ100 is not a standard modification, and would be difficult to service outside of the US. In addition, large (and heavy) tires increase the chance of drivetrain failure, and reduce economy. I would recommend the 285/75 R16 or 255/85 R16 on plain steel wheels. Avoid the large diameter wheels, as spares would be near impossible to source in the South. Flashy wheels also attract unnecessary attention and "label you" in poor countries.

Ok, so this is a start We will work on comfort and convenience next, along with racks, tents and other required mods.

 

[articulate]

I hate to detract, but it's all in friendliness. This page at your site is fantastic:
http://www.hackneys.com/travel/index-lessons.htm

Carry on, carry on.

Mark

 

[calamaridog]

Doug,

Outfitter:

The best outfitter for your needs may be Christo Slee at www.sleeoffroad.com. He is an expert with the UZJ100 platform.

Vehicle specific forum:

Check the forum at ih8mud.com, which is a Land Cruiser site. We have an active UZJ100 series forum there and you may find some answers to any questions you may have.

Repair kit:

You need the FSM (factory service manual) and a OBDII scan tool for your repair "kit" for diagnostics purposes.

Wheels:

Unfortunetly, plain steel wheels are hard to source and were never available in the U.S. Stockton Wheel can make some custom ones for you at around $150 each if you really want steel.

Modifications:

I agree with Scott regarding the majority of his vehicle modification suggestions. I will say that I believe the OME shocks will not stand up to an extended, multiple year trip and I would bring extras...

I also feel you will want to run a second battery to power lights and a fridge. I suggest looking into the Powergate product to isolate the accessory battery from the starting system. www.perfectswitch.com

Vehicle:

If you are going to source a used vehicle, I would be happy to look at it with you or recommend a good (non-dealer) Toyota mechanic for a vehicle inspection. You can contact me at calamaridog@pirate4x4.com if you need any help with your preparations. I will help if I can or steer you in the right direction.

The US spec vehicles are all fully loaded (leather seats, power windows, etc.) and automatic transmission only. The 2006 model has the VVTI motor and variable height suspension (like the Lexus). You should stick with a 2005 or older vehicle. The VVTI motor will be hard to source parts for overseas.

Training:

Bill Burke is an expert 4wd instructor. In the very least, watch his videos. http://www.bb4wa.com/ Some of us locals could also arrange a local trip for you to familiarize yourself with some basic 4wd driving.


Good luck and let us know what you do!!!:bowdown:

 

[mountainpete]

Douglas,

Just a quick reply right now... Since your timelines are tight, have you thought about something other than a 100 series? Maybe this?

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=16284

Pete

 

[ChuckB]

So I guess you won't be needing it for frequent trips to the mall then?

Seriously though, any thoughts on the 98-99s vs. 2000+? I'm specifically referring to TRAC. What are your opinions on having it vs. being fully locked or both locked & TRAC'd. (Shotts, I think we already now where you stand )

 

[dhackney]

First off, thanks to everyone for the input, advice and support. Greatly appreciated. We've got a lot to learn and really appreciate the help.

I'll try to answer some of the specific questions.

Do you intend to purchase a new vehicle? The Tacoma is also an excellent choice, and provides similar reliability, though reduced durability. Fuel economy and storage also improves with the Tacoma.

1) We intend to purchase a used vehicle. As you've pointed out, we'll be pulling quite a bit of the suspension, bumpers, etc. off the vehicle immediately. We'll also be self-insured for property & casulty (unless we can find someone to cover the vehicle for that, please post or email if you know of an international carrier for theft, collision, fire, etc.). We are also assuming any factory Toyota warranty would only be valid for North America. Adding up all of those factors, plus the info about the VVTI motor noted in the thread (which we knew nothing about yet, we're raw newbies here, thanks!), and we think it makes more sense to buy used. Our goal is to find a lightly used LC coming off a lease driven by a surburban mom or an exec. We probably would not buy anything that had been modified or showed signs of off-road use. There's just no way to know what it had been through.

2) We have not considered Tacomas. I know nothing about them, or about service and support outside this country. It would give us the opportunity to stick a small camper in the back and gain a full time galley.

3) We have considered LR. We spent some time in and around LRs in Africa. We also have friends who own and have owned LRs here in the states. I'm leery of the reliability and durability of the modern LRs sold here. We're also headed to South America, and it is my understanding, again, very limited, that LR is less of a presence there than in Africa and Toyota is more common. I don't have much time to work with and had to make a call so I could limit my research and I chose the LC, rightly or wrongly. There is definately a huge industry in LR outfitting. Apparently less so for the LC.

4) Agreed on all the suggestions on minimal engine mods. I did all that stuff when I was younger and with the exception of adding a racing quality timing belt to a Fiat X1/9 cannot think of a single instance when I improved the overall reliability of anything I modified. Of course, that could have something to do with my subsequent repeated exploration of the red-line-regions as well...

5) All the suggestions on suspension & ride height are in line with our thinking and what we've learned so far. We have no need or desire for big diameter wheels, etc.

6) I am glad to fill the gap with some input on tire size. We wanted to get some recommendations on tires that we could have a hope of replacing outside of this country if required, i.e. multiple punctures, sidewall destruction, etc.

7) Agreed on the second battery. Electrical power is a big issue for me, so I'll be putting special focus into that area. I hope I can bring something to the party there from the last 1.5 years of sailboat research and development. 12VDC power is a critical and carefully managed resource on ocean going sailboats.

8) I took a quick look at Bill's web site for training. Our immediate challenge is that we won't have a vehicle to use and will need a training scenario where they can provide the vehicle and recovery gear.

9) Everyone keeps repeating the Slee mantra, so we're headed in that direction for outfitting services. No response from them yet to my email message.

10) Calamaridog, thanks for the offer on vehicle inspection. We will take you up on that if we can find something locally. We're going to start up here in North County and expand from there. I'll email you if we find something.

Thanks everyone for the input. Please keep it coming. As you can tell, we are starting from near ground zero.

 

[Scott Brady]

Expedition Modifications

With the vehicles foundation complete, you should concentrate on the living space, sleeping space and organization. This will absolutely make or break the vehicle as a whole. All of the fancy off-road mods are forgot about once you cross the border and start living out of the vehicle.

So, from front to back:

Front Bumper:

Two driving lights, two fog lights (understated is preferred, and does not restrict radiator flow or invite thieves.)
Air chuck: compressed air run to front bumper
Remote winch control

Engine Compartment:
All stock, and a HD battery with separator. Some use an isolator, or complicated controller. I prefer a Surepower solenoid. Very robust (200 amps) and simple.
ARB locker solenoid manifold (Slee sells a great unit)
Compressor

Driver and passenger compartment:
Organization here is critical, and nothing should be distracting. A place for easy access to cameras, but not in plain view. GPS unit (The 478 is a great unit w/sat weather, so is the 376c). lots of 12v plugs and a 110 outlet for computer use and battery charging. The UZJ100 has great seats already.

Rear passenger compartment: Remove seats and install 20+ gallon water tank. Down low and towards the midline. Install water pump to provide water to shower and rear faucet. Second level will be compartments for quick access to maps, computers, survival sacks, recovery gear and first aid equipment. All in compartments and safely secured. Still below rear view mirror level for visibility.

Rear storage compartment: Remove third row seating and all associated brackets. Two drawer system for kitchen and dry food storage. Slide for 45l fridge.

Area next to fridge will be used for clothing storage. The 100 has a lift gate and tailgate, which will be used for food preparation. Incorporate an awning attachment point. There should also be a rear faucet and outlets for the shower and water heater.

Wagons are most useful at the rear compartment, so all critical activities (cooking, planning, etc.) should be easily done there.

Roof tent and awning: No roof rack, just a roof tent and awning mounted. I would recommend either the Eezi-Awn 1600 or the Autohome Maggiolina Extreme. Adventure Trailers sells a killer awning, and they are working on a great tent, but it will not be available by your departure date.

Fuel: Long Ranger Aux. fuel tank (40+ gallons)

We can work on the details of above as we progress.

 

[60seriesguy]

I hate to be the dissenting voice so far, but I don't think a US-spec UZJ100 is a good option for the length of trip you're describing and the regions you plan to visit.

My biggest concern would be the drivetrain, specifically the big V8 motor. It's complex electronic controls, relative scarcity in most countries (the 100 series was sold in most of these countries with either the 4.5 inline six or a diesel powerplant) and need to run on premium unleaded fuel has the potential to cause you problems throughout the trip, and the type of mechanic you're likely to encounter outside the big cities won't be very familiar with it.

The IFS is not that big of a concern to to me unless you plan to be very heavily loaded.

Here's a thought. If you're not planning on keeping the truck forever, why not purchase a lightly used 80 or 100 series (or 79 trooopie, although that will need a LOT more modification/prep) DIESEL Land Cruiser in Panama, have it shipped via container to Long Beach or Houston, apply for a temporary importation (I have all the paperwork, easy as pie), then have it outfitted in the US by a reputable shop, take delivery of it, then maybe hit a couple of short trips in the southwestern US to fine-tune everything and get a feel for the rig?

I've done a lot of traveling throughout South America and I just can't see a US-spec 100 series taking the rigors of such a journey, running on 82-octane gas and sketchy motor/gear oils, with all those sensors/modules vibrating and possibly shorting or failing and leaving you stranded, 5,000 miles from the nearest diagnostics machine.

One suggestion, regardless of the rig you choose, is to make friends with the parts manager, open an account with them, and supply them with key addresses throughout the journey, in case you needs parts FEDEX'd to you in an emergency. Carry not only the FSMs for the truck, but also the parts fiches, it's possible that Toyota dealers along the way won't have the specific fiche for a NA-spec vehicle.

 

[gjackson]

I agree with 60seriesguy on the truck, though I do have little experience with the 100 series.

Couple of other suggestions: most overlanding is not extreme off-roading, so I would avoid lockers unless you are very comfortable with them and know you will be going places where you will need them. Travelling on your own it is better to have a sense of fear and avoid getting stuck than relying on something and then getting really, really stuck. If you are comfortable with them and accept the cost, then, by all means, add them in!

If you have not already checked it out, see:
http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=200
for some excellent discussion on what modifications people value the most.

cheers

 

[Scott Brady]

I do not have any major concerns with the 100 series, though Henry's idea of sourcing a diesel is compelling.

I have travelled tens of thousands of miles with a 100 series (Doron's 99) without even a single issue. I would not think a near new 100 series would be any more problematic than an 80 series with 80,000 miles on the ODO, yet the 100 is slightly larger and more friendly on the highway.

I also believe that locking differentials are a valuable tool in recovery and safety, and the ARB units strengthen the case, reducing the chance of failure. I only needed to use a diff. lock once in Mexico, and without it, would have meant a much more dangerous situation, or retracing our path for nearly 100 miles. (it was a road washout, heavy cross-axle with no winch points). It does not appear that Doug is as concerned with cost, as performance and reliability.

It does not appear that Doug wants to seek out the most technical terrain, and they will be traveling alone too. That would lead my decision to the newest vehicle possible, with the most storage/payload and best overall road performance and safety.

 

[upcruiser]

Wow, this is going to be an interesting thread to watch grow. With the timeline of late May for departure, I'd be very nervous of having everything sorted. I mean, not only are you going to be modding this new truck, but you will also be getting familiar with it yourself, and learning off highway driving skills with it. Typically, at least in my experiences, after doing vehicle modifications, I end up fiddling around a week or so afterwards, adjusting and trying to optimize things. Seems like an awful lot of stuff to try and do in such a short period. I would just say, don't rush the vehicle testing, and don't skimp on some of the safety aspects. Good luck and I will be reading this eagerly.

 

[Scott Brady]

2) We have not considered Tacomas. I know nothing about them, or about service and support outside this country. It would give us the opportunity to stick a small camper in the back and gain a full time galley.

I think it is worth spending a few moments on the Tacoma, to review all of the options.

The best asset of the Tacoma is the ability to install a camper. The 2005 and newer Tacoma is available in a double cab, long bed configuration, which allows for excellent storage volume. The interior is also larger, and the seats improved. A rear locking differential can be purchased as a factory option, and you even have the choice to shift your own gears with a 6-speed manual.

You could purchase a double cab, long-bed TRD and install a coil-over lift in the front and an 11-12 leaf custom Deaver pack in the rear. This would support a Fourwheel Pop-up camper.

Key Benefits:
Light Weight - Weighs only 690 Lbs.
Sleeps 3 adults comfortably using a queen size slide out bed and a single bed.
6 Ft headroom when popped up.
Low Profile - Thickness of the cab-over is only 8 inches in the down position.
Heater
Galley
Weather-pack option

This shows a similar configuration, though with a Nissan

These units have been used around the world (literaly) by the Turtle Expedition.

 

[Pskhaat]

Allow me to chime in if I may?

I do think the LC100 is an excellent choice for a vehicle for this. I also think an 80 series is too, but I'll try and focus. I do have some reservations on some things about the 100, mainly the starter. The starter itself is located underneath the intake manifold on the V8. I would consider having the starter cleaned and internals (like contacts) checked and replaced if necessary.

For suspension: I would personally recommend against the OME865s and move to OME863s or better yet OME864s which have a higher load capacity, which I do believe you'll need and appreciate with your provision list. Obviously the front suspension too has the OME torsion bars which I would do immediately.

The newer year US-spec LC100s have 17" or 18" wheel options leaving you obviously with a limited tire choice. If you purchase an LC100 with some of these wheels, I will buy these wheels from you, I have 16" LC100 wheels that I would love to trade you for your trip. For tires, I second the 255/85r16s. I would say 235/85s but the LC wheel is 8" wide! Steel wheels that are the proper width AND the correct backspacing are very hard to come by and you may have to go custom made if you decide to go that route as I don't know anyone in the states that sells factory steel LC100 rims. Most aftermarket wheels will center too far inward.

Automatic transmissions are like bad politicians: you can generally not rely on them and they have personalities to match. However, it'll be next to impossible to reasonably get a manual tranny in a 100 series. (You can do it in an early 80 series). Luckily, most people have had very good success with the trannies in the LCs. I hate autos because you can't roll start them!

I've known Christo Slee for about 7 years now and though you'll pay more with him you will get service accordingly (read good & more), even I'm sure their help over the phone where need be; I've never had an issue with any product or service he or his shop has proviced. This said there also are other vendors on this board who are excellent parts resources who no doubt should chime-in in part.

 

[Mike S]

I cannot add anything about the 100 series TLCs, but I beileve that American Toyota in Alb, NM can provide OEM steel wheels at reasonable prices. The Toyo M55 tires in tall and skinny sizes should be excellent for the trip. They are 10 ply commercial tires, with a killer reputation for durability.

As for the roof tent, a fabric tent is not the best choice. I would definitely go with a hardtop roof tent. It is more secure, more durable, more waterproof, more comfortable, warmer, and easily vented. Some models have electric lights and can be fitted with Hella turbofans, heaters, radios, and 12V outlets for charging phones, etc. Check www.sandcruiser.com for Steve and BB's experience in Mexico and Central America. Add a LARGE attached fly like the MSR Expedition wing to provide shade and shelter. It is a quality piece of gear. If you have room, you should also explore the possibility of taking along a small teepee for showers, changing, toilet use, a smalll roll up aluminum table and two comfortable and durable folding chairs..

Get a Petromax lantern - it will burn gas, unleaded gas, white gas, deisel, kerosene, and is high output. It is solid brass and corrosion proof. They have an optional reflector which is worthwhile.Spare parts are available and recommended for a long trip.

I use and recommend the Camp Chef River Runner aluminum and stainless
propane stove and 2 (two) 11 lb bottles of propane. easy to fll store, etc. and the two units provide a back-up capacity.

I would also recommend dual deep draw batteries in the vehicle and either propane or electric 12V fridge. These will make ice.

Agree with the idea that you will need a drawer storage system to organize and keep all the bits and pieces,. and for secure storage of electronics, etc.

Sat phone is a very good idea. Most also offer a datalink service - slow but better than a note in a bottle. I use a Qualcom sat phone and the services of a provider that subcontracts connections from Inmarsat.

:clapsmile