After watching this video. And many others of yours. I have come to 2 conclusions. 1/. You are correct. The electronics running your system is way to complex. I believe very much in the K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid) policy for off roading and camping/touring. 2/. You seem to run like a bull at a gate with your builds. You have a preconceived idea b4 you start. And you will not deviate. Instead of letting it come slowly and naturally. In other words letting the project develop a life of its own. And most importantly this is not a criticism of you. ( as i know I will get a lot of negative feed back ). Just my opinion/observation.
Please don't confuse not agreeing with everything you say with 'negative feedback'. You'll only get an honest response from me. Some people confuse that with intolerance. It isn't. Okay . . . "bull at a gate with your builds". I think that's a bit unfair. " You have a preconceived idea b4 you start." Yes, I definitely do. It's this that motivates the project. "And you will not deviate." No I won't - not much anyway. Way too expensive. I have a plan and I go for it. but I do learn and adapt. Not every concept, idea and change is shown on screen. You only see part of what really happens and you have to make your judgements on that. Much of the reality is invisible to you. "Slowly and naturally." It sounds okay, but I have no idea what that actually means. What you may be saying is that I don't spend enough time trying things before committing to them. But how does one test an idea? Fit it, test it, try and and decide. And I did. Every decision affects every other decision. Not everything turns out the best way, and for better or worse, I'll show that on my channel. No hype to be found here!
I disagree with the "bull at a gate" comment. If you watch a build from start to finish, you will see how the ideas develop and, quite often, change as challenges and/or solutions present themselves. Do I agree with everything Andrew does or says? Of course not! But I have yet to come across a reviewer/vlogger/enthusiast that does not try to BS you with marketing fluff. If something works, he says so. If it doesn't, he also says so - even if it's his own stuff or ideas that don't work... That's a rare commodity!
@@4xoverland. Thanx for the reply Andrew. Not sure where u got the comment about "way too expensive" from. Maybe it was to do with the "way too complex electronics" comment I made. Even so. It is neither here nor there. Im glad you were honest in your response. And no offence or intolerance on my behalf was taken. Keep up the good work. As I do enjoy your videos.
I think Andrew has built so many vehicles over the years, not just for his personal use but for others also; so yes he has a preconceived idea which has come from years of experience. The feeling I’ve had from his early trips in this vehicle is that he likes so much about the vehicle & its build but he hasn’t fallen in love with it like he has with his last two Troopys; maybe it will grow on him when he does more trips in it, but I’m just not sure he will......🤔
This guy’s passion and brutal honesty is remarkable. He put together an overlander’s dream build and was like: “ehh, not for me”. After all that work, a typical person might have a bit of bias and overlook flaws. Not this guy. Awesome video
Well selling full price a vehicle on which almost everything was free, to build a new one where almost everything will be free again is a good incentive compared to a regular people that would lose a lot of money doing the same thing.
@@Fe_lix,, I really don't think Andrew received the L/c for free or the tray & camper. I could be wrong 🤷♂️, but obviously a good portion of the extras were sponsor donated. Maybe ASPW could chime in and clarify. Happy new year friends 🍻👍.
@@jowly1462 is that the latest one with the patrol? If so. That’s the best build I’ve seen- I really like the guy (and his wife!)’a approach to the truck and travel.
@@iansmith5601 Yes, that's the one. I was amazed at the detailed level of planning and disciplined build. No superfluous crap. Even Ronny was floored at times. Andrew, seriously go see how it's done
People, go back and watch Andrew's intro tag that's on every video. Two keys: 'Watch me build trucks' and 'travel to the remotest parts of the world'. Well, the second is hyperbole given the world we now live in, but if the vehicle Andrew builds (with sponsorship) can't achieve that second key task, it's gotta go bye-bye, preferably while it can command the highest possible resale price. Andrew has tried and tried again to create the perfect do-it-all vehicle, and until Toyota, Quick Pitch, ARB, or someone else markets a magic wand that overrides the rules of physics, building a long-haul 4WD is going to be about determining what compromises the owner is willing to accept. The 'Dream Tourer' proves there's a limit. Maybe Andrew needs multiple vehicles for different objectives? And multiple aircraft? :-)
At $235,000 I cannot discern wether you actually really built it to make some coin or you were miles off deciding what it is you actually wanted. How does one toss real money into a project before giving a "relevant" amount of thought to the outcome. Or, is it easy to go over the top when sponsors throw all sorts of superfluous junk at you and you feel obliged to bolt it in somewhere. I think I have it. Cheers and good luck unloading it.
I feel like the last troopy build was the best one I’ve seen of all your different builds. Thing was just perfectly set up. Great mix of off road and tourer.
That's the third time you've owned a double cab 79 and each time it's been a compromise too far. I can't think of a vehicle that suits you better than a troopy. However it would be cool to see you take on something other than a land cruiser just to see what you would do with it! What about a more affordable vehicle? People really enjoyed you Africa 105 build, partly because of Paul Marsh but also because it was more attainable.
Andrew not knocking you....this is primarily a filmaking channel that just happens to have 4WD content. Prior experience of decades past can be easily confused for dining out on former glories. Building vehicles is one aspect, actually using them for the stated goal is another. That's ok if you're happy to take the "Men's shed, telling war stories" direction with the channel. Limited appeal after a while. As time passes, taking every comfort and convenience on a trip, defeated by flies etc, begs the question, "why not just get a caravan"?
hey mate it seems as though you have put much thought into your decision however I am somewhat disagreeing with you on your conclusion that this ute is not offroady enough. As someone who lives and works out of a Landcruiser belting it through some of the worst country imaginable with hundreds of kgs of equipment( chemical spray unit with 600l of water + chainsaws and all other associated equipment) its my belief that your possible not giving it a fair shake. When i think of the polar opposite to this ute a swag thrown in the back, an esky and a cooker, yes its lighter and more robust offroad but its nowhere near as enjoyable as it possible could be with just a touch more gear. My suggestion is trim the fat. cut back to the bare essentials. We are all guilty of loading down to the bumps stops and arriving home with a bunch of stuff that wasn't touched all trip. they are in credible capable cars such that i am constantly suppressed. What ever you choice mate i look forward to seeing what you do next thanks for the entertainment.
Other side of the world but after over 20 years in the bush we're down to three totes for our family of five. Little context, here in Canada the wife and I started doing canoe trips over 20 years ago. We were young and started with relatively short 4 or 5 day trips. After each trip we would look at the gear we used and the gear we didn't. Eventually we got to the point where we could do a portage in a single go. Canoe and small backpack with wife carrying the food and tent (It's a bit more complicated but whatever). We eventually started doing 120 km canoe routes and would add a couple extra days on top of what we figured we would need. Two high quality hammocks, nemo sleeping pads, down sleeping bags and the best waterproof/resistant ultralight tent money can buy (with lots of space). It's pretty amazing what we can get away with now after years of dialing things in... Kids now so epic canoe trips are over but we can grab a couple bins, toss them in the SUV and be gone in no time. We just plan for the food, I do the maps (GPS, Phone, Paper and compass) then off we go. BTW, back in the day it was a Subaru Impreza hatch, now it's a Honda Pilot. Plenty capable of hitting the logging roads and abuse them each trip. Maintenance and a good mechanic is key, also, doing your own basic work is essential. We'll go two weeks in the middle of nowhere and have a blast. When the kids came along at first I brought way too much stuff, didn't take long to get back to basics and keep it simple. One thing we don't have to worry about up here is water though, a quality gravity filter and lakes all over the place. The Happy Camper by Kevin Callan is a good start, from there you can build on his ideas and research what works for you. Replace canoe with vehicle and the gear falls into place. I think the best Canadian canoe books are a good place to start if you are looking for the essentials to pack and then build on that. Backpacking is a little too sparse on gear.
@@antonioarroyas7662 our gear evolution has followed a similar pattern to much gear initially then dialing it in. when we go away we go for hunting trips specifically targeting feral pigs you lose a lot of space just in the ute tray room required for the dogs so you pack simple, also its generally very rough where we go so you have to pack fairly light typiclly swag, engle , food and beer is all we pack could defiantly be more comftable in a big roof top camper but a decent swag and a busy day make for a good nights sleep.
@@ultrafarmer3069 Hunting is certainly a different ball game :) I'd say Moose requires the most gear and is best done as a team effort. Some people just pay a guide and go pull a trigger. We do it all from start to finish, it's not about the "trophy", it's about so much more. In the end, a good size moose gets a group of fifteen of us 20 or so lbs of meat each. As for other game like ducks it's much less prep. Like anything in life, the more effort you put in, the better your chances of success. That being said, there are plenty of days where we came up empty. There are certain animals I just won't hunt though, Bears being one of them. The meat sucks and people generally just hunt them for the fur and usually claim the meat is "tasty" (it's not). One guy I know bow hunts Moose, he's pretty hardcore and fit! Ice fishing is pretty fun too. I'd say winter stuff much like your summer adventures are more dangerous and extra weight is a small price to pay when it comes to a life or death situation. Cheers bud, looking forward to heading down your way one day!
@@antonioarroyas7662 sounds like you living the dream up there mate. Likewise hopefully once the world sorts its self out I can visit your neck of the woods 👍🏻
If you come up here I'd recommend Vancouver and Vancouver island. Like Australia Canada is pretty massive, 3 weeks in British Columbia is a pretty sweet trip. Also, come up in the summer...
Front opening fridge is the way to go IMHO. To stop stuff falling out, you need to have something like a piece of cargo netting etc inside the door that you can unclip....or, like you said, pack the stuff into baskets etc. The latter is what we do in our Bushtracker's fridge.
I'll say it because no one else has. You really haven't gone where a truck and trailer can't with this truck. A heavy land cruiser is in some aspects compromised just as much as if you were towing. The camper is more weight higher up on one axle. You could save yourself over $100k by buying an off the shelf duel cab and an off-road trailer. And if you were travelling in competition level tracks you wouldn't have neither, you'd have a cheaper truck, a swag and a bunch of spares. If you had unlimited money you'd be never satisfied with any truck. It'll be too heavy, too slow, too uneconomical or not ergonomic. Make a budget, make a plan, and and aim for the stars.
Why not tow though? Best of both worlds. I towed for a year and we went everywhere except the Cape and only because we ran out of time. And the two days we spent bunkered down with massive winds I was sure glad I had a little bit of room and wasn't stuck in a tray camper.
@@telebrettable I like towing, and in many ways they are ideal, but as Tom Sheppard points out in his book (which I'd wholeheartedly agree with him on this), you need two or three helpers to move a trailer around when you get stuck. If it's just one or two of you, it becomes a pain. Also, reversing a trailer off-road is not good fun either.
@@telebrettable Also, what is the vehicle rated to tow wise? Some manufacturers stipulate different limits for on- and off-road use. For example, my vehicle is rated to just 1000 kg off-tarmac, yet is plated to 2000 kg for on-tarmac use (4000 kg if you have driver controlled as opposed to overrun brakes, not that I'd want to tow 4000 kg with a Series III Land Rover with just 47 kW/ 62 bhp).
You could build a better rig for $70k less. Your 79's are cool if you like bulk, however way to heavy & cluttered with unnecessary tech, fabrication & cargo, for a serious tourer or offroader. Why items such as scrub rails (+30kg), tray & camper instead of all in 1 unit(+200kg & it's 100mm+ to high), fridge slide (20kg), wheels (20kg), & so much unused cargo in draws. Great vid content but your cars are so busy with afterthought sponsor looking extras. Sponsorship is great...well done but, unnecessary items & complexity reduces outback enjoyment. Keep up the good work Andrew, & pls post some remote 🇦🇺 tracks.
It'd be nice if one of your next builds were built to a price perhaps more realistic to a greater number of people. It's easier to do anything or everything when sponsors are throwing gear and kit at you, either for free or at a discount. (Good on for you for that, I must say. You've shown so many products I didn't even know were on the market.) To place a dollar limit on the mods for whatever the donor vehicle is, and decide from the outset the main purpose, would be a very worthwhile exercise. You have enough audience base, even if it's only your Patreons, to allow input from others in the direction of such a build.
But why? His primary goal of building it is to do his job of overlanding & making documentaries, & have the vehicle make that job easier for him. Trying to see how to build a vehicle with a certain budget to teach others isn’t his primary goal; he’s actually done similar projects like that or at least shown it on his channel several other times.
you can build a great tourer out of a pajero or prado, his needs are different to most but similar to others. Everybody has different goals in this space
I'd rather see Andrew do his own build as the whole point ( at least for me) is to get inspiration not a piece to copy as at the end we all have different needs and Andrew's time and budget are limited.
@@davidhamad6125 exactly.. why would I watch a channel that's literally doing something I'm doing or really what 95% of us are doing? Nobody wants to watch Joe Soap talk about slide out drawer and a fridge 😁
Professional designer/builder like Patriot or others uses Auto Cad with 3D drawings and scaled measurements. They can explain weight and weight distribution, height of the tray for access also show and fill wasted space all before you buy the platform to build it on. Andrews method is buy, design in his head (Didn't see any drawings) then Pay or have sponsors build the tourer. Final product shows shortfalls in DESIGN not the quality of the build. So this is the difference between true experience in designing and building a product that is usable, functionally, no wasted space, balanced, all within budget for owner and builder. His choice he can do what he wants and this must work for his channel dollar wise with RUclips and sale of the trucks being profitable due to freebies. But in the real world if you follow this content providers ideas it wouldn't be a dream tourer just a nightmare.
C'mon, firms like Patriot have small production runs of vehicles whereas this vehicle is a one off. Hardly surprising that they do 3D modelling and the amateur builder doesn't.
Patriot don’t explain the weight, they just go for more weight and bigger vehicles. The things they’re best known for are massive trucks that practically cause small landslides.
My respect rose about that guy. Puring his heard into something and than admit that he was wrong not only shows character but also a high level of maturity! To find out the optimum you have overdue it sometimes in order to find the sweet spot. Great job, Andrew! Thanks for your honesty! It it is much appreciated! 👍
The fine print comment about Alucab makes me reluctant to buy any of their products. I know they have a lot of great products but if they or their distributors don’t encourage negative comments about their products it worries me that they don’t care for feedback or customer satisfaction.
Based on Andrews statement about the fact Alucab would sue him if he made “any negative comments” about their products, then “l wouldn’t buy anything from them”. So much for free speech.
Alu-Cab never threatened to sue Andrew, its between Andrew to the AU Distriboture, and for my knowledge it has nothing to do with a comment regarding a product and more about the professional work of the Distriboture. Like i wrote there are two side for the story, and man shell ask himself why the a great working relationship between ASW and Alu-Cab came to an end. Although I'm the European distributor and share holder at Alu-Cab im not sure i can even explain myself why it came to that and for my point of view it should never came to that point, but for this story there are even more then just two sides, and sometimes some one take a side without really understanding or knowing what is going on the other side.
Your honesty and being real you about what you want & do has really changed many of us on our daily lifestyle......I love being me thank you such an inspirer...
For an ordinary person like me its a $200k rig... way out of the limit of 99.9% driver. But i like to watch these type of enjoyable video coz its free. Good luck andrew . Merry Christmas & happy new year .
It's unbelieivable that someone can drop that much cash on a rig only to find it isn't what they wanted. LIke, how do you know do some analysis beforehand? It's up for sale for 235k at the moment. You can buy a whole house for less than that in some parts of australia.
@@andrewford80 ok, 235k Australian $ is around 2, 84,93,750 Pak Rupees and that is a huge bargain. Why ? Because my 05 Prado stock is around 5 million rupees. So just imagine the taxes we pay here in my country 😌
I have to agree with you Andrew about the balance between touring and off-road. That will always be a tricky needle to thread. The vehicle you have built is fabulous for touring and still good enough off-road to rescue Nissans but wont let you scratch the off-road itch enough. Now you know and you have learnt a lot. A very useful exercise and I would be lying if I didn’t say I am salivating at the chance to see you conceptualize and create another off road centric camper. 2021 is starting to look very bright
👍 Like you Andrew, i also built a “beast” and based on that experience i was able to learn what works and what doesn’t, i realized i needed to have a smaller footprint 🦶. But it is only thru experience i could have known; we have to build it or rent it and get out into the wild to know how we feel about our wilderness lifestyle....so many things i thought i needed, in the wild i don’t live like i do in the city....well done Andrew, i understand your approach and life is meant to be lived and experimentation is part of it.
I said months ago that this was too big and heavy and didn't have enough off-road capablility and was told I was being too critical by other commenters. Months later Andrew arrived at the same conclusion.When you put a GVM upgrade on a vehicle and its still too heavy...well the message is pretty clear. The only surprise is it took him that long to realise.
There are some massive fanboys in these comments who get super defensive if you speak ill of him or his projects. The reality is they want to camp and travel in comfort so they take everything bar the kitchen sink. Everything about this build is excess. Maybe they should get back to basics, or just tow a camper.
I agree I was one of them and the fanboys are frustrating with defensive comments these guys think Andrew Can't do wrong the cab guard should NEVER have been installed in the first place as a example and plenty of comments were made at the time regarding this. It's not only the weight but the functionally of the rig that I didn't agree with but Andrews brutally honest content is appreciated.
Andrew said that the double cab platform didn't work for him as a good off roader when he bought the first double cab and sold it for a troopy. " too much weight over the rear axle" This new one is just too big and heavy.
Look, to invest nearly $250k in this project build and then after hardly using it decides that it isn’t what he needs and that it has a number of shortcomings is just plain dumb. How could anyone have any confidence in his ability to deliver an autograph vehicle that is any good. Andrew is fast becoming a bit of clown with his constant miss steps and cocky ups with vehicles.
What a gorgeous vehicle! The colour - absolutely beautiful. Extended wheelbase - apart from its practicality - way better-looking than the standard etc.
Andrew, I think your issue is trying to adapt your vehicle to spend time inside it when the weather is bad. That’s just not possible whilst keeping your rig small. The concept of a camper trailer is out of the question for you (but that doesn’t actually solve the problem). Best bet is to put the sides on your awning when the weather turns poor. Yes that’s a hassle, but it’s not a hassle you go through everyday.
@@4xoverland Come now Andrew...that’s not entirely true. On any NEW car broken sensors can do any range of things from stopping to limp mode. LR is no worse than any other.
@@marka6591 It worse when the suspension and gearbox are all interconnected by a computer running a fussy program. I've seen a Discovery trapped, the owners were being brought food by passing travellers until a man arrived 10 days later, plugged in a laptop and turned off a damaged airbag sensor. It wouldn't even go into limp mode. The owner could not engage Drive until it was fixed, which took less than 5 minutes. 10 days + 5 minutes.
@@4xoverland Come on, this is no different than any modern vehicle with electronics. Same thing could happen on any new 4x4. That thing you just built could have some electronic issue with the engine and shut right down until a "laptop" saves the day. You really should stop the LR attacks. Be an equal opportunity hater.
Thank you for posting this and being thorough and honest. You just saved me a bunch of money and headaches. I have a 2007 fj cruiser and i will be leaning hard to off roader with a few simple luxuries.
Back to basics. When is enough - enough? The electronics, battery management systems, radios, .... You mentioned Snow master. When I looked them over at the 2018 Overland West Rally there were 3 factory engineers from the snow master factory standing over our shoulders listening to our questions, and comments. Everything from door access, handles, the remote control, weight, etc. was being recorded. All for ideas on improvement. KISS - and something you can fix on your own. Whether touring or remote off-road travelling - being able to trouble shoot and fix is way more important than having a remote app to fire up the water heater or travel buddy. KISS
Dear Andrew, this decision does not come as a surprise. Since your comparison: Troopy (the true love) and your new project, I was just waiting for this announcement. I won the bet with my wife. Sure, this concept based on the 79, has its advantages, however, also various disadvantages, size, weight, use in the field etc. I think the possibilities with a Troopy, are absolutely sufficient for 1-2 people. We'll see what gets built next. On this way, thank you for your videos and the way some topics are commented, we love this style! To your family and you, despite all the circumstances, we wish Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. In the hope that we all next year again find better opportunities to travel. Best wishes from Germany.
Get more legs on your canopy and they will stop each other from lifting. Also there are tilt fridge trays available now which do not weigh much. But the front opening fridge is perfect! Great rig ✌️😃
May-be Andrew has been following Mighty Car Mods the JIMNY BUILD Now he's starting to get worried they are getting more RUclips KICK regards being the experts in 4xAVD (LOL) than he has getting. Envy is a cruel master.
I agree with you on the electronics. My friends are putting these huge complex systems in and I've just got a couple switches and a fuse box doing the same job for less then a quarter of the cost. Looking forward to your next build can't wait to see what you pick may I suggest a Mercedes G professional? Little bit more expensive but seem fine my 96 is great
Big news! I think it's all about business and content creation: build cars, document the process (create content) and sell the vehicle again. That's why I am a fan of this channel!
Something that might be worth looking at when you're developing your remote switching system is an impulse or latching relay (two names for the same thing, though "impulse" is more commonly used for mains voltage). Some use power all the time to remain on, you'd probably want the ones that only use power when switching. Using them is a very easy way of being able to have multiple switches that can each turn on or off something remotely. You put a momentary switch at each location you want to have control from, they pulse 12V to the relay, the relay then turns on or off. Redundancy - the relays are cheap so you can carry spares, there's very little to go wrong, and they are very easily bridged using a small bit of wire with terminals on the ends. You'd probably low side switch, that is have a 12V source at the relay end, through the relay coil, then you put a switch in between the coil and ground. Otherwise it gets really confusing with multiple sources of 12V flying around. To indicate whether a source is on (in cases where it's not obvious like the water boiler) you can take a tapping off through a fuse an run it to an indicator like the LEDs built in to Carling switches.
I saw your car up on Carsales last weekend and I'm not surprised you're selling it. You never seemed quite happy with it and seemed to be trying to convince yourself that it was the right car for you. Even just minor things like trying to park it get quite tedious when it's as big as it is. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do next!
Just finished building my Ultimate Off-road tourer. Base vehicle lwb Suzuki Sierra. Taken a different path to the current trends. I only have 45 years of off-road experience.
There's not a lot wrong with this rig. It's just that it isn't the rig for you, or for your trips around Oz. I bet if you spent 6 months crossing, say, Asia or South America it'd be perfect. You're in the enviable position of having had an opportunity to bring together all the features most people only ever aspire to (and never achieve), and now you can consider how you might refine and condense those features into a more suitable vehicle. Let's face it, you really want this: www.campervanfinder.com.au/hire/wa-family-troopy-3-5-berth/ +EDIT+ If you don't like clicking links in comments, google "WA family troopy". :-)
Obviously RUclips has been good to our host. That vehicle has nearly every item you could put on it. I have a job and a pretty good one at that. I am not sure I could afford to buy all that stuff. I suppose that there are people who say " If there is a place for it I want it mounted, what ever it is". Quite frankly I doubt that many people really will have all this gear. I am sure that most of this is supplied by sponsors, if not than it must be Patreon money at work. I understand that there is a matter of convenience to the gear. This is not very realistic for the average person. Where is the fun in this really? Just another site that started with adventures and ends up as an advertisement show for off road-overland products. Gilding the lily comes to mind. In my opinion the show has lost something along the way. Certainly it has not slowed the addition of various pieces of equipment. Yes the vehicle has too many complicated systems and electronics. Superfluous indeed.
I was thinking the same thing and decided to read some comments first. At first the video was interesting and then after a while it was like whine, whine...poor me I can't get comfortable in a $150,00+ rig (most likely a lot more! ) Seriously, try going out in a sub $10,000 rig and get back to reality. This is ridiculous. The more you have the more you want and the more you realize nothing is going to satisfy. The channel has become unrealistic.
Thank you Andrew was glued to the screen from start to finish.. love you honesty so much. I full understanding what you are saying about best of both worlds..I 4×4 in the high country of Victoria all the time and I have made sacrifices form certain comfort to ability . But over many years I think I have found the line between both ..still learning every day though.. love you content.
I will say it every single time, not being able to have a new troopy in the USA is the biggest disappointment to me in the off road world! Green with envy! I would rather spend the money on old tech any day than a new jeep
The motors have complex ECU's, DPF's and other emissions controls on them so they really aren't old tech at all. The only reason they are so popular in Australia is that Toyota and Nissan no longer make a dual solid axle wagon, if they did then you would see every Australian in a new version of an 80 series Landcruiser not a 79 series.
My suggestion is to mock-up the interior shape of a troupie in your garage, and actually sit with the space, and try to work in it. Then put in storage *around* that.
Most of the parts have been gifted to you and you are asking retail pricing for your rig. A bit steep don't you think?! Besides you have entered a special league. Which "normal" person can afford a $250'000 setup to go exploring and camping? Would be great if you could come up with a built which main stream people could afford and not only the rich...
100%, extra cabs are mint for when you occasionally need rear seats or just to have some easy interior storage. The extra tray length doesn't sound like it'll make a difference but it totally does (plus the weight can be arranged better). IMHO the best trick is that you can mount a popup roof top tent only over the tray and keep it below the roof height so you don't murder your highway fuel use.
I would have thought an extra cab was perfect for this build, but he was insistent he needed the doors for his photography gear. I think that's where a compromise was in order.
You simply mentioned the Falken brand in one of your earlier vids as your new choice of tyre and that was enough for me to consider them as a replacement tyre on my daughters Wrangler after being a BFG fanboy for 30 odd years - so glad I did, couldn’t be happier with them. So if you’re listening Falken, that’s one sale you probably would not have gotten had it not been for this channel and I’ll rave about the Falkens to anybody who’ll listen.
Hi Andrew SPW! I'm a bit late on this comment, but figured I had something relevant to add: based largely on your earlier reviews my wife and I bought ourselves a Tommy Camper (an early onset midlife crisis likely provoked by COVID lockdowns)! We had the 1st of two Tommy Campers brought into NZ and we've just returned from our maiden voyage around the South Island. After our first trip in this camper the ONLY thing we can think about is how to get back out in it. I've never slept so well or enjoyed such an easy camp set up, I've also never spent so much money on recreational equipment, but despite that neither myself nor my long-enduring wife had the least regrets after our first trip. Now this brings me to my main point: how can you sell your beautiful new rig?! I won't use the words "betrayal" or "heartbroken" or "full of a blind, all consuming rage", but I was looking forward to more Tommy Camper content from you! That being said *sigh* I respect the decision, and I understand the need for hardcore off-roading ability in your hardcore and sun baked neck of the woods; NZ is a touring rig country for sure. OBVIOUSLY you're making a huge mistake selling the Tommy Camper, but terrible decisions make for great content anyway, so should be good as gold (just busting your chops) :-) I will end by saying that: despite the relentless nitpicking and what I suspect is clinically diagnosable "fussiness" when it comes to your rigs, you've been right about literally EVERYTHING that's overlapped with our own build, and you've saved us from a number of expensive disappointments, so thank you. I only wish you were 2 meters tall like me so you'd solve a number of "tall guy problems" that I end up having to deal with (the biggest being that the Land Cruiser utterly fails for taller drivers as the left leg has no place to rest as there's no centre console). All the best from an ex-pat NY Yank living in NZ, maybe we'll see you on the trail some day.
Like all us 4x4 we try to multi-skill our rigs,finding the perfect setup is a conundrum. For me towing seems like the best balance between being a tourer and 4x4. Toyota has a great choice of 4x4 but have gone away from coil springs which are better than leaf for four wheel driving,as for towing Toyota's can tow all day with a van on the back. The perfect 4x4 land rover was on the right track with its coils and aluminum body but let us down with electronics and mechanical mismatch.
Are you considering waiting to see how the Ineos turns out when its finally released? Personally I think your last Troopy was almost perfect. The full length wedge camper roof gave it the perfect balance of comfort and low bulk.
There’s no point him waiting that long I reckon. It won’t come earlier than promised, but it might be delayed, it will take some time to get any to Australia for people to buy, there will be fewer parts for it, and if you want a reliable vehicle never buy the first year of a new model.
I knew that you wouldn't be completely satisfied when you put out the video about the weight of the vehicle. I'm currently doing a restoration of a 1HZ Troopy so I've constantly been comparing this to a spartan Troopy type build. You want a bush truck. Spread your wings and fly, baby.
@@GCTO239 yeah probably... but that’s the answer..if want all the gear he takes with him ..and he wants his wife to be comfortable and be able to actually reach things easily that’s the bloody answer. I’ve never seen Andrew tackle any hard 4wd tracks in Australia Canning Stock yes isolated yes , but not technically difficult.. So why not tow ? I understand it’s just for RUclips content which is fine by me anyway..
I think you’re right, he should get himself a good of road camper and he’d be set. It’s disgraceful that someone can drop the sort of coin he has and can’t get it right. He’s not professional and is actually starting to become a bit of an idiot.
You should check out Roaming the Outback, well setup defender for offroading with touring. Sounds like you are going to build a 6 wheeler to give you maximum offroad capability and rear end setup for touring
Dream tour correct , but a dream that will only ever come true for for most people if they win tatts. Maybe the next build should have a $100,000 budget.
Thats why I like Seriously Series and Ronny Dahl. Old school camping with a tent and a fire place. I do not want an oven, hair dryer and sat dish in the outback.
@@mrcvry well you don't have to install a hair dryer or an oven.. the aim of a channel should always exceed the norm else I could just pop into my garage or my mates to show you what 95% of all tourers have. Won't make a good chann now would it
@@mrcvry why did he insist you follow his lead? His builds are part of his stories. We've all done projects, maybe not all, that didn't turn out exactly like how we wanted. If one hasn't pushed the limits on has a very mundane life
Face/front opening fridges, not only does the contents fall out, but so does all the cold. Heat rises, therefore, the cold stays in chest fridges. Chest fridges are much more efficient just on this simple fact.
Another who hasn't used one, I'm guessing. Pulling all the contents out to get to the bottom of your chest fridge displaces just as much cold air. And the benefits in terms of weight saving over rule anything else in my opinion. Each to their own.
When Andrew was talking about the requirements of the new built he had explicitly stated that he wanted a place where he could edit his videos on the go. When I saw the Aussie dream tourer revealed I wondered where he could edit. Now he wants to go smaller. I wonder if able to edit on the road is still a requirement.
Did Andrew and wife not say there was less space to edit than in the Troopie? That's what I heard. So going 'smaller', where edit room is concerned, is not an option on the next build.
@@gotoylc I thought so too but the whole premise of the Aussie dream tourer was to be able to edit. So going smaller and still keeping the desire to edit on the go may translate to a different kind of set up than going smaller and abandoning the desire to edit on the go.
@@gotoylc yeah, I think so too. Especially for long trips (in colder climates- as prior to COVID he was talking about a US your) editing will be a must. So I’m very curious to see his solution as this is something that interests me very much.
Another fantastic, honest review of what works and what doesn't. Thank you! Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and prosperous 2021! Cheers!
It would be nice to get an "in law suite" or many for taking about someone (tongue in cheek) not nice if they're lawsuits. Sorry. I couldn't help myself. Your passion about your builds shows every time you explain the features and the reasoning behind. It is great to see that you are realistic about what went well and what wasn't that great.
I’d still really like to see a Mercedes G-wagon chassis cab build. The Offroad capability is really great and the back allows you to build whatever you want.
@@DaciaProject I think the main problem with a Mercedes build is sponsorship. Not many accessory companies have the equipment so the ‘pool’ is a lot smaller to choose from. Second most Aussies have or want a land cruiser so to promote products for a land cruiser is really good business. So I understand the ‘business challenges’ of a Merc build but man would it be something so very special!! I know Andrew doesn’t like the single cab but that’s where the build can really be different, you extended the chassis of the cruiser...extend the cab of the g-wagon! Make it an extended cab or possibly if you really want a double cab. But I say an extended cab with access hatches on the outside. So camera gear is accessible from both inside and outside. Then two options for the back...either a tray with canopy and standard 4x4 kit out or another camper canopy but smaller and lighter to avoid the dream tourer weight and size issue? I’m sure Andrew would have great ideas for it and most importantly he’ll fall in love with it. But he’ll need some decent companies to work with and just don’t think there is anyone to back a G-wagon build.
ALU-CAB! I've had my eye on several Alu-Cab products and in particular their pop up roof top tent for a Troopy. I hope that Alu-Cab reads this; if you think for one minute that I as a potential purchaser will allow you to operate your business practice in this way then you should note that you just lost a customer. If a person cannot offer an honest opinion on a product then what is the point in considering someone's opinion. Andrew, just so you know, I've noticed you tend to tap dance every now and again in your reviews. I guess we all know why now. I wonder how many other companies are in the business of threatening lawsuits?
@@TroopyLife I suppose that is possible, but he did the same thing with Alu-Cab’s awning. I thought that review was based in SA. Nevertheless, I had no idea that companies, regardless if a product was purchased outright or sponsored would put those kind of constraints, were out there. It makes me wonder what happened with BF Goodrich. If these are business practices that are out, it sure would be nice for consumers to know. It completely changes one’s perception when trying to do a build out.
@@Genesis-Import Then, please fill us in. Don't make a blanket statement like "there are 2 sides for each story" because that is not what Andrew said or wrote. He clearly said that it is a "design flaw" which regardless of whether or not it is an opinion, he clearly stated "I must clarify that because if I say anything other positive opinions about All-Cab products, their Australian distributor has threatened me with law suits. Which makes me reluctant to even mention the name." You cannot tell me that Alu-Cab does not know that this is going on regardless if it is SA or AU. If someone suggests that there is a design flaw, shouldn't that company reach out and find why? I'm not trying to get into a piss match, I clearly want people to understand that this is not how companies should operate. If Australia has some kind of law that prohibits a negative opinion, then so be it. And if that is the case, clearly state as such so that I and others can move on from watching INFLUENCERS like Andrew.
Maybe you need to do a bit more research rather than blindly follow the comments of someone who has most of his gear supplied free by manufacturers looking for exposure. I have no idea of the ins and outs of Andrew's dispute with Alucab, and I don't own any Alucab products but what I have seen of them would indicate that they are a quality offering. Do your own research maybe.
I think you got the fridge setup wrong. The pull out and drop down tray /slide bracket would have made so much difference to how you use it and ease of use as opposed to the tilt system. It would have just made life easier by a long way. You say 30kg is too heavy and not practical. But did I hear you say somewhere 250ltr of Diesel on board?? plus 70 qtr of water. surely you could be ok with 200 or 180 ltrs of Diesel and use the weight saving for the drop down fridge. The colour is awesome as you stated and lots of other gems in the build.
Man has to do what a man has to do. I am greatly looking forward to the next build. Unfortunately I am still coming to terms with why the Dream Tourer and not an offroad vehicle, after all it has everything. I can understand some of the short comings with the camper, but could a round 2 not have sorted that out? Work space was a little small in the camper for 2 people. Anyway, been an awesome experience for us all. ................Next time don't meet up with former loved vehicles lol.
Wow!! Im really early For this one! Absolutely live your narration style Andrew! One can tell that a lot of thought has gone into what shall go onto the video.... Unlike the younger "influencer types" who just go through the vehicle like its some type of shopping list...without nuance or pause For more "conversational" detail, eg the stock mirrors vs clearview. Absolutely brilliant.
Andrew hi, I fail to see the problem, where did this vehicle fail as a off-roader? Have you seriously put it through its paces because I fail to see any video that you have made where this was illuminated!
G'day, I very much agree with the redarc being too involved. I've been looking at the enerdrive system with the digital screen because it's easier (I'm not one to buy something I need a manual for nearby to use). I'm pretty new to building a camping/exploring ute and would be curious to hear any thoughts you have on the system.
I’m excited can’t wait to see the next build I know it will be epic. I’m with you I have to have a cruiser that is comfortable to travel but really good Offroad and in America the 80 series fits that bill for me
@@4xoverland I haven’t explained it well. Have a look at this video, scroll to about 40seconds or so. ruclips.net/video/j99up8JlOXs/видео.html My suggestion was in response to your comment about everything falling out of the fridge on your US trip, yachts face a similar problem with ovens.
Andrew please don't take this as an offence but I thought the camper was a bit "heath Robinson". When your wife first saw the camper in the field it was obvious that she was not impressed and I share that view. With the new Land Rover Defender you shout from the rooftops about tech not being compatible with the bush. The Redarc electronics, complex water system, remote for this and that, differing lighting solutions for camper, differing lighting solutions for vehicle, the impracticality of a chest fridge that high (I am 6' 4''), et al means that this was a trial piece. If you want to go off road then this vehicle would take you to most places. You do not love it because it does not meet your personal criteria - it was a failed build. There are companies who build tray top campers in Australia for the 79 series that work better.
Pretty sure your fuel filter is plumbed up so that it will go through your after market one 1st then your original one after. If you do it how you described, then you have pretty much voided your warranty
You are definitely Aussie now Andrew, I can tell by your clothing. Hat, sunnies, t-shirt, shorts and thongs. The ‘long’ shorts make it more formal (appropriate for filming). The relaxed style is achieved by swapping to footy shorts with a beer logo on them. If you need to attend a formal function at short notice, just swap the thongs for deck shoes (no socks) and you’ll get in (just about) anywhere.
Any decent fabricator could resolve your tray bar height issue with minimal fuss and cost, and lower that heavy canopy 50mm in the process.. maybe worth doing if you plan keeping the truck for any length of time.
Great vehicle mods to make an already great platform even greater ! Well done. It's a shame to see it up for sale now but such is life I guess. I agree with you that yes, many vehicles out there have waaaaaay too much over complicated crap thrown in simply because it can be or because a sponsor is throwing it in for the advertising rewards ( aimed more so at some other channels 😉 ). It's all just unnecessary crap that isn't needed that only complicates and costs $$$ when it starts to fail out of warranty period and yes it will fail ! Like bluetooth in a fridge for instance, do we really need this - I think not. Just more problems down the Nullarbor at 11 o'oclock at night when the fridge turns itself off for some unknown reason..... try fault finding when you have all that extra crap in your systems line. Manufacturers please take note - we would rather reliability than gimmicks. Don't include unnecessary rubbish in your design just because you can. Look at Engle fridges for example. Simple basic design with really only one major part that moves. They still power on strong 20 years later. Bit like an old Land Rover pre-electronics. And it's sooooo frustrating when things like your bluetooth control on your phone just won't do what it's supposed to - I get very annoyed too with stuff like that !!! Remote phone control and apps etc may look good in a brochure and may be all a manufacturer has to stand out in a competitive market I guess, but stuff like is just not needed and often not wanted either. Don't complicate it for the sake of it. One thing I noticed too, you mentioned the Runva winch is an Australian winch - not sure if you meant Australian made or Australian owned but just to clarify they are in fact one of the first winch manufacturers to take winch design over to China for cheaper manufacturing costs way back in 1997. They class themselves as a a large international brand with an extensive distributor network set up in over 50 countries so I'm probably guessing they're not even Australian owned ( can't confirm ). Shame really that we can't manufacture competitively here in this once great manufacturing country of ours.
Sell it. Do a 200 series with drawers in the back. Keep it simple. Get a GVM upgrade. Leave out all the unnecessary gadgets and simplify the 12v setup. Sleep on a stretcher using a swag covered by a rhino 270 awning and walls. In my opinion this would be the ultimate setup for you.
I personally still think that the Troopy was a better fit for the types of trips you seem to love doing. I am biased though because your last Troopy is probably my favourite vehicle of all time. Any chance you have furthered your plans for doing a budget vehicle build?
Its only not good off road as you have everything including the kitchen sink on board. Just reduce the luxury items and reduce the weight, and you then will quadruple its off road ability.
It's pretty low slung for the wheelbase though. It would be really easy to hang it up without going to 35 inch tires, but it's already too tall of a vehicle for them.
Buy a motorhome and tow a Jimny 😉 You can watch TV from your couch whilst your dinner is roasting, wander off to your en-suite, then jump in the Jimny and conquer the trails/beach.
Doesn't want to tow a trailer because it limits where you can go off road, invests a quarter of a million $ in a vehicle which was supposed to be better. Probably should have went with an off road trailer in hindsight. Would have had the capability to tour, go off road or both. And I mean off road trailer, and not a caravan, or a hybrid, or even one of those fold out tent things that you see all in caravan parks or the likes. Something like a DOT or Patriot. No doubt you could get pretty creative, especially when you look at what has been built here.
Yeah, when you consider where he's been in this rig you could have taken taken any 4WD and a camper trailer, it seems the "I won't tow" argument doesn't stack up much versus the actual use.
Honestly I hate trailers too. But if I were him I think a viable path would be to set up the vehicle to be a one man palace of an offroader and then tow a trailer for when the wife comes along and the trip will be more for touring. Would have been fun to see him try it out before he sold the Troopy.
Yes but won't tow but this rig is worse any many ways I have mentioned before he hasn't gone anywhere you can't take a trailer so his argument doesn't make sense.
A 4x4 is like a motorbike, you cant have everything in one, everything is a compromise. But from watching your shows im not sure ive seen you really test this ones ability? Im sure you obviously have just would have been great to see. Only one that comes to mind is when you got stuck in the sand and had to get the traks out.
I had a feeling you’d sell it....it’s a beautiful 4wd but it’s too “bulky” looking in my opinion......in the mean time, I’d like to say Andrew that I’ve had many many hours of enjoyment watching your videos . Keep rolling away. Happy wheeling. Steve 🇦🇺
I have the same issue with my Redvision. Albeit it works very well without other problems, I do have Bluetooth connection issues often. When it stops connecting, I go to the display, go into the Bluetooth pairing, it often reboots and sometimes not - in my opinion, is there is a software issue with the blue tooth pairing.
After watching this video. And many others of yours. I have come to 2 conclusions.
1/. You are correct. The electronics running your system is way to complex. I believe very much in the K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid) policy for off roading and camping/touring.
2/. You seem to run like a bull at a gate with your builds. You have a preconceived idea b4 you start. And you will not deviate. Instead of letting it come slowly and naturally. In other words letting the project develop a life of its own.
And most importantly this is not a criticism of you. ( as i know I will get a lot of negative feed back ). Just my opinion/observation.
Please don't confuse not agreeing with everything you say with 'negative feedback'. You'll only get an honest response from me. Some people confuse that with intolerance. It isn't.
Okay . . . "bull at a gate with your builds". I think that's a bit unfair. " You have a preconceived idea b4 you start." Yes, I definitely do. It's this that motivates the project. "And you will not deviate." No I won't - not much anyway. Way too expensive. I have a plan and I go for it. but I do learn and adapt. Not every concept, idea and change is shown on screen. You only see part of what really happens and you have to make your judgements on that. Much of the reality is invisible to you. "Slowly and naturally." It sounds okay, but I have no idea what that actually means. What you may be saying is that I don't spend enough time trying things before committing to them. But how does one test an idea? Fit it, test it, try and and decide. And I did. Every decision affects every other decision. Not everything turns out the best way, and for better or worse, I'll show that on my channel. No hype to be found here!
I disagree with the "bull at a gate" comment. If you watch a build from start to finish, you will see how the ideas develop and, quite often, change as challenges and/or solutions present themselves. Do I agree with everything Andrew does or says? Of course not! But I have yet to come across a reviewer/vlogger/enthusiast that does not try to BS you with marketing fluff. If something works, he says so. If it doesn't, he also says so - even if it's his own stuff or ideas that don't work... That's a rare commodity!
@@4xoverland. Thanx for the reply Andrew.
Not sure where u got the comment about "way too expensive" from. Maybe it was to do with the "way too complex electronics" comment I made. Even so. It is neither here nor there.
Im glad you were honest in your response. And no offence or intolerance on my behalf was taken.
Keep up the good work. As I do enjoy your videos.
@@flysoutbackadventures I meant, way too expensive to deviate from a plan too much.
I think Andrew has built so many vehicles over the years, not just for his personal use but for others also; so yes he has a preconceived idea which has come from years of experience.
The feeling I’ve had from his early trips in this vehicle is that he likes so much about the vehicle & its build but he hasn’t fallen in love with it like he has with his last two Troopys; maybe it will grow on him when he does more trips in it, but I’m just not sure he will......🤔
This guy’s passion and brutal honesty is remarkable. He put together an overlander’s dream build and was like: “ehh, not for me”. After all that work, a typical person might have a bit of bias and overlook flaws. Not this guy. Awesome video
Well selling full price a vehicle on which almost everything was free, to build a new one where almost everything will be free again is a good incentive compared to a regular people that would lose a lot of money doing the same thing.
@@Fe_lix can’t argue much against that thought
@@Fe_lix,, I really don't think Andrew received the L/c for free or the tray & camper. I could be wrong 🤷♂️, but obviously a good portion of the extras were sponsor donated. Maybe ASPW could chime in and clarify. Happy new year friends 🍻👍.
@@PaydayGabeBCNV He doesn't need to chime in and clarify here, he states on the video what he was given and what he bought himself because it works.
I have always truly appreciated your honesty. Especially when being critical of your own decisions. That requires a huge level of humility. Thanks.
The next build should be a minimalist off-road overlander. The challenge of taking less- without impacting on the enjoyment of the trip.
The challenge of taking less- without impacting on the enjoyment of the trip. YESSSS.
Andrew watch Ronny Dahl's Modified Ep 88 for ideas. Masterclass, it'll help you no end
@@jowly1462 is that the latest one with the patrol? If so. That’s the best build I’ve seen- I really like the guy (and his wife!)’a approach to the truck and travel.
@@iansmith5601 Yes, that's the one. I was amazed at the detailed level of planning and disciplined build. No superfluous crap. Even Ronny was floored at times. Andrew, seriously go see how it's done
Andrew should view the latest modified episode on Rohny dahls channel, similar build but simpler
People, go back and watch Andrew's intro tag that's on every video. Two keys: 'Watch me build trucks' and 'travel to the remotest parts of the world'. Well, the second is hyperbole given the world we now live in, but if the vehicle Andrew builds (with sponsorship) can't achieve that second key task, it's gotta go bye-bye, preferably while it can command the highest possible resale price. Andrew has tried and tried again to create the perfect do-it-all vehicle, and until Toyota, Quick Pitch, ARB, or someone else markets a magic wand that overrides the rules of physics, building a long-haul 4WD is going to be about determining what compromises the owner is willing to accept. The 'Dream Tourer' proves there's a limit. Maybe Andrew needs multiple vehicles for different objectives? And multiple aircraft? :-)
At $235,000 I cannot discern wether you actually really built it to make some coin or you were miles off deciding what it is you actually wanted.
How does one toss real money into a project before giving a "relevant" amount of thought to the outcome. Or, is it easy to go over the top when sponsors throw all sorts of superfluous junk at you and you feel obliged to bolt it in somewhere. I think I have it. Cheers and good luck unloading it.
Mmmm - advertisement for the vehicle offload?
I feel like the last troopy build was the best one I’ve seen of all your different builds. Thing was just perfectly set up. Great mix of off road and tourer.
That's the third time you've owned a double cab 79 and each time it's been a compromise too far. I can't think of a vehicle that suits you better than a troopy. However it would be cool to see you take on something other than a land cruiser just to see what you would do with it! What about a more affordable vehicle? People really enjoyed you Africa 105 build, partly because of Paul Marsh but also because it was more attainable.
That space ship truck has more stuff than my house!!... flux capacitor and all!
Andrew not knocking you....this is primarily a filmaking channel that just happens to have 4WD content. Prior experience of decades past can be easily confused for dining out on former glories. Building vehicles is one aspect, actually using them for the stated goal is another. That's ok if you're happy to take the "Men's shed, telling war stories" direction with the channel. Limited appeal after a while. As time passes, taking every comfort and convenience on a trip, defeated by flies etc, begs the question, "why not just get a caravan"?
It hurts to say. But I have also had that feeling for about a year.... The "Men's shed, telling war stories" direction...
hey mate it seems as though you have put much thought into your decision however I am somewhat disagreeing with you on your conclusion that this ute is not offroady enough. As someone who lives and works out of a Landcruiser belting it through some of the worst country imaginable with hundreds of kgs of equipment( chemical spray unit with 600l of water + chainsaws and all other associated equipment) its my belief that your possible not giving it a fair shake. When i think of the polar opposite to this ute a swag thrown in the back, an esky and a cooker, yes its lighter and more robust offroad but its nowhere near as enjoyable as it possible could be with just a touch more gear. My suggestion is trim the fat. cut back to the bare essentials. We are all guilty of loading down to the bumps stops and arriving home with a bunch of stuff that wasn't touched all trip. they are in credible capable cars such that i am constantly suppressed. What ever you choice mate i look forward to seeing what you do next thanks for the entertainment.
Other side of the world but after over 20 years in the bush we're down to three totes for our family of five. Little context, here in Canada the wife and I started doing canoe trips over 20 years ago. We were young and started with relatively short 4 or 5 day trips. After each trip we would look at the gear we used and the gear we didn't. Eventually we got to the point where we could do a portage in a single go. Canoe and small backpack with wife carrying the food and tent (It's a bit more complicated but whatever). We eventually started doing 120 km canoe routes and would add a couple extra days on top of what we figured we would need. Two high quality hammocks, nemo sleeping pads, down sleeping bags and the best waterproof/resistant ultralight tent money can buy (with lots of space). It's pretty amazing what we can get away with now after years of dialing things in... Kids now so epic canoe trips are over but we can grab a couple bins, toss them in the SUV and be gone in no time. We just plan for the food, I do the maps (GPS, Phone, Paper and compass) then off we go. BTW, back in the day it was a Subaru Impreza hatch, now it's a Honda Pilot. Plenty capable of hitting the logging roads and abuse them each trip. Maintenance and a good mechanic is key, also, doing your own basic work is essential. We'll go two weeks in the middle of nowhere and have a blast. When the kids came along at first I brought way too much stuff, didn't take long to get back to basics and keep it simple. One thing we don't have to worry about up here is water though, a quality gravity filter and lakes all over the place. The Happy Camper by Kevin Callan is a good start, from there you can build on his ideas and research what works for you. Replace canoe with vehicle and the gear falls into place. I think the best Canadian canoe books are a good place to start if you are looking for the essentials to pack and then build on that. Backpacking is a little too sparse on gear.
@@antonioarroyas7662 our gear evolution has followed a similar pattern to much gear initially then dialing it in. when we go away we go for hunting trips specifically targeting feral pigs you lose a lot of space just in the ute tray room required for the dogs so you pack simple, also its generally very rough where we go so you have to pack fairly light typiclly swag, engle , food and beer is all we pack could defiantly be more comftable in a big roof top camper but a decent swag and a busy day make for a good nights sleep.
@@ultrafarmer3069 Hunting is certainly a different ball game :) I'd say Moose requires the most gear and is best done as a team effort. Some people just pay a guide and go pull a trigger. We do it all from start to finish, it's not about the "trophy", it's about so much more. In the end, a good size moose gets a group of fifteen of us 20 or so lbs of meat each. As for other game like ducks it's much less prep. Like anything in life, the more effort you put in, the better your chances of success. That being said, there are plenty of days where we came up empty. There are certain animals I just won't hunt though, Bears being one of them. The meat sucks and people generally just hunt them for the fur and usually claim the meat is "tasty" (it's not). One guy I know bow hunts Moose, he's pretty hardcore and fit! Ice fishing is pretty fun too. I'd say winter stuff much like your summer adventures are more dangerous and extra weight is a small price to pay when it comes to a life or death situation. Cheers bud, looking forward to heading down your way one day!
@@antonioarroyas7662 sounds like you living the dream up there mate. Likewise hopefully once the world sorts its self out I can visit your neck of the woods 👍🏻
If you come up here I'd recommend Vancouver and Vancouver island. Like Australia Canada is pretty massive, 3 weeks in British Columbia is a pretty sweet trip. Also, come up in the summer...
Front opening fridge is the way to go IMHO. To stop stuff falling out, you need to have something like a piece of cargo netting etc inside the door that you can unclip....or, like you said, pack the stuff into baskets etc. The latter is what we do in our Bushtracker's fridge.
I'll say it because no one else has. You really haven't gone where a truck and trailer can't with this truck. A heavy land cruiser is in some aspects compromised just as much as if you were towing. The camper is more weight higher up on one axle. You could save yourself over $100k by buying an off the shelf duel cab and an off-road trailer. And if you were travelling in competition level tracks you wouldn't have neither, you'd have a cheaper truck, a swag and a bunch of spares.
If you had unlimited money you'd be never satisfied with any truck. It'll be too heavy, too slow, too uneconomical or not ergonomic. Make a budget, make a plan, and and aim for the stars.
I agree. I won't tow. So, the only things to do is go smaller.
Why not tow though? Best of both worlds. I towed for a year and we went everywhere except the Cape and only because we ran out of time. And the two days we spent bunkered down with massive winds I was sure glad I had a little bit of room and wasn't stuck in a tray camper.
@@telebrettable I like towing, and in many ways they are ideal, but as Tom Sheppard points out in his book (which I'd wholeheartedly agree with him on this), you need two or three helpers to move a trailer around when you get stuck. If it's just one or two of you, it becomes a pain. Also, reversing a trailer off-road is not good fun either.
Yeah I agree re recovery but its not life threatening as you can just leave it. The ability to base camp as well is a huge plus for the trailer.
@@telebrettable Also, what is the vehicle rated to tow wise? Some manufacturers stipulate different limits for on- and off-road use. For example, my vehicle is rated to just 1000 kg off-tarmac, yet is plated to 2000 kg for on-tarmac use (4000 kg if you have driver controlled as opposed to overrun brakes, not that I'd want to tow 4000 kg with a Series III Land Rover with just 47 kW/ 62 bhp).
You could build a better rig for $70k less. Your 79's are cool if you like bulk, however way to heavy & cluttered with unnecessary tech, fabrication & cargo, for a serious tourer or offroader. Why items such as scrub rails (+30kg), tray & camper instead of all in 1 unit(+200kg & it's 100mm+ to high), fridge slide (20kg), wheels (20kg), & so much unused cargo in draws. Great vid content but your cars are so busy with afterthought sponsor looking extras. Sponsorship is great...well done but, unnecessary items & complexity reduces outback enjoyment. Keep up the good work Andrew, & pls post some remote 🇦🇺 tracks.
It'd be nice if one of your next builds were built to a price perhaps more realistic to a greater number of people. It's easier to do anything or everything when sponsors are throwing gear and kit at you, either for free or at a discount. (Good on for you for that, I must say. You've shown so many products I didn't even know were on the market.) To place a dollar limit on the mods for whatever the donor vehicle is, and decide from the outset the main purpose, would be a very worthwhile exercise. You have enough audience base, even if it's only your Patreons, to allow input from others in the direction of such a build.
But why? His primary goal of building it is to do his job of overlanding & making documentaries, & have the vehicle make that job easier for him. Trying to see how to build a vehicle with a certain budget to teach others isn’t his primary goal; he’s actually done similar projects like that or at least shown it on his channel several other times.
you can build a great tourer out of a pajero or prado, his needs are different to most but similar to others. Everybody has different goals in this space
I'd rather see Andrew do his own build as the whole point ( at least for me) is to get inspiration not a piece to copy as at the end we all have different needs and Andrew's time and budget are limited.
Buy a Toyota Hiace, throw a Coleman burner and an esky in the back along with camp chairs and table.
@@davidhamad6125 exactly.. why would I watch a channel that's literally doing something I'm doing or really what 95% of us are doing? Nobody wants to watch Joe Soap talk about slide out drawer and a fridge 😁
Love the honesty and not trying to force yourself to like what was going to be the dream vehicle
Professional designer/builder like Patriot or others uses Auto Cad with 3D drawings and scaled measurements.
They can explain weight and weight distribution, height of the tray for access also show and fill wasted space all before you buy the platform to build it on.
Andrews method is buy, design in his head (Didn't see any drawings) then
Pay or have sponsors build the tourer.
Final product shows shortfalls in DESIGN not the quality of the build.
So this is the difference between true experience in designing and building a product that is usable, functionally, no wasted space, balanced,
all within budget for owner and builder.
His choice he can do what he wants and this must work for his channel dollar wise with RUclips and sale of the trucks being profitable due to freebies.
But in the real world if you follow this content providers ideas it wouldn't be a dream tourer just a nightmare.
C'mon, firms like Patriot have small production runs of vehicles whereas this vehicle is a one off. Hardly surprising that they do 3D modelling and the amateur builder doesn't.
Patriot don’t explain the weight, they just go for more weight and bigger vehicles. The things they’re best known for are massive trucks that practically cause small landslides.
My respect rose about that guy. Puring his heard into something and than admit that he was wrong not only shows character but also a high level of maturity! To find out the optimum you have overdue it sometimes in order to find the sweet spot. Great job, Andrew! Thanks for your honesty! It it is much appreciated! 👍
The fine print comment about Alucab makes me reluctant to buy any of their products. I know they have a lot of great products but if they or their distributors don’t encourage negative comments about their products it worries me that they don’t care for feedback or customer satisfaction.
There are two side to each story, its better not to jump to conclusions.
I thought the same. As I recall Andrew was always positive about his troopy alu-cab roof. It’s not like he’s out to bash them unfairly.
@@jimblackburn3182 Yes, Andrew has probably lifted their business so that's quite nasty to threaten court action.
Based on Andrews statement about the fact Alucab would sue him if he made “any negative comments” about their products, then “l wouldn’t buy anything from them”. So much for free speech.
Alu-Cab never threatened to sue Andrew, its between Andrew to the AU Distriboture, and for my knowledge it has nothing to do with a comment regarding a product and more about the professional work of the Distriboture. Like i wrote there are two side for the story, and man shell ask himself why the a great working relationship between ASW and Alu-Cab came to an end. Although I'm the European distributor and share holder at Alu-Cab im not sure i can even explain myself why it came to that and for my point of view it should never came to that point, but for this story there are even more then just two sides, and sometimes some one take a side without really understanding or knowing what is going on the other side.
Your honesty and being real you about what you want & do has really changed many of us on our daily lifestyle......I love being me thank you such an inspirer...
For an ordinary person like me its a $200k rig... way out of the limit of 99.9% driver. But i like to watch these type of enjoyable video coz its free. Good luck andrew . Merry Christmas & happy new year .
It's unbelieivable that someone can drop that much cash on a rig only to find it isn't what they wanted. LIke, how do you know do some analysis beforehand? It's up for sale for 235k at the moment. You can buy a whole house for less than that in some parts of australia.
@@andrewford80 ok, 235k Australian $ is around 2, 84,93,750 Pak Rupees and that is a huge bargain. Why ? Because my 05 Prado stock is around 5 million rupees. So just imagine the taxes we pay here in my country 😌
@@andrewford80 it was for 180K a couple of days back, price went up after the video was released.
@@andrewford80 Design it, Build it, Use it, Change it. And in Andrew's case, Sell it.
I also enjoy whatever build Andrew does but from a $ perspective one makes more money selling expensive toys to rich people.
I have to agree with you Andrew about the balance between touring and off-road. That will always be a tricky needle to thread. The vehicle you have built is fabulous for touring and still good enough off-road to rescue Nissans but wont let you scratch the off-road itch enough.
Now you know and you have learnt a lot. A very useful exercise and I would be lying if I didn’t say I am salivating at the chance to see you conceptualize and create another off road centric camper. 2021 is starting to look very bright
I second this, Andrew.
I’ve always thought that you’ve gone full tourer when you completed this rig. Bring back the Troopy with a fully modified rear camper space.
👍 Like you Andrew, i also built a “beast” and based on that experience i was able to learn what works and what doesn’t, i realized i needed to have a smaller footprint 🦶. But it is only thru experience i could have known; we have to build it or rent it and get out into the wild to know how we feel about our wilderness lifestyle....so many things i thought i needed, in the wild i don’t live like i do in the city....well done Andrew, i understand your approach and life is meant to be lived and experimentation is part of it.
I said months ago that this was too big and heavy and didn't have enough off-road capablility and was told I was being too critical by other commenters. Months later Andrew arrived at the same conclusion.When you put a GVM upgrade on a vehicle and its still too heavy...well the message is pretty clear.
The only surprise is it took him that long to realise.
There are some massive fanboys in these comments who get super defensive if you speak ill of him or his projects. The reality is they want to camp and travel in comfort so they take everything bar the kitchen sink. Everything about this build is excess. Maybe they should get back to basics, or just tow a camper.
I agree I was one of them and the fanboys are frustrating with defensive comments these guys think Andrew Can't do wrong the cab guard should NEVER have been installed in the first place as a example and plenty of comments were made at the time regarding this.
It's not only the weight but the functionally of the rig that I didn't agree with but Andrews brutally honest content is appreciated.
could have turned it into a 6 wheeler and restored any capability lost due to its weight and length
Andrew said that the double cab platform didn't work for him as a good off roader when he bought the first double cab and sold it for a troopy. " too much weight over the rear axle" This new one is just too big and heavy.
Look, to invest nearly $250k in this project build and then after hardly using it decides that it isn’t what he needs and that it has a number of shortcomings is just plain dumb. How could anyone have any confidence in his ability to deliver an autograph vehicle that is any good. Andrew is fast becoming a bit of clown with his constant miss steps and cocky ups with vehicles.
What a gorgeous vehicle! The colour - absolutely beautiful. Extended wheelbase - apart from its practicality - way better-looking than the standard etc.
I actually really liked the most recent vehicle you built and sold in Africa. I think something like that vehicle here in Aus is what you want.
did he sell the 100 series in africa??
@@EddyCullen yup. It's sold
Do 20 year old Nissan Patrol, that would really lift the channel.
@@DaciaProject Just a little trip. I enjoyed it.
@@DaciaProject yep, completely agree. he wants comfort and offroad ability, needs to be a 200. stop buying 70s!
Andrew, I think your issue is trying to adapt your vehicle to spend time inside it when the weather is bad. That’s just not possible whilst keeping your rig small. The concept of a camper trailer is out of the question for you (but that doesn’t actually solve the problem). Best bet is to put the sides on your awning when the weather turns poor. Yes that’s a hassle, but it’s not a hassle you go through everyday.
You always say you hate the Land Rover, too many sensors, electronics. Builds a rig with space station capabilities.
When a sensor brakes in a LR, it stops the car. In this camper, its a minor inconvenience.
@@4xoverland
Come now Andrew...that’s not entirely true. On any NEW car broken sensors can do any range of things from stopping to limp mode. LR is no worse than any other.
@@marka6591 It worse when the suspension and gearbox are all interconnected by a computer running a fussy program. I've seen a Discovery trapped, the owners were being brought food by passing travellers until a man arrived 10 days later, plugged in a laptop and turned off a damaged airbag sensor. It wouldn't even go into limp mode. The owner could not engage Drive until it was fixed, which took less than 5 minutes. 10 days + 5 minutes.
@@marka6591 Totally agree.
@@4xoverland Come on, this is no different than any modern vehicle with electronics. Same thing could happen on any new 4x4. That thing you just built could have some electronic issue with the engine and shut right down until a "laptop" saves the day. You really should stop the LR attacks. Be an equal opportunity hater.
Thank you for posting this and being thorough and honest. You just saved me a bunch of money and headaches. I have a 2007 fj cruiser and i will be leaning hard to off roader with a few simple luxuries.
Back to basics. When is enough - enough? The electronics, battery management systems, radios, .... You mentioned Snow master. When I looked them over at the 2018 Overland West Rally there were 3 factory engineers from the snow master factory standing over our shoulders listening to our questions, and comments. Everything from door access, handles, the remote control, weight, etc. was being recorded. All for ideas on improvement. KISS - and something you can fix on your own. Whether touring or remote off-road travelling - being able to trouble shoot and fix is way more important than having a remote app to fire up the water heater or travel buddy. KISS
Dear Andrew,
this decision does not come as a surprise.
Since your comparison: Troopy (the true love) and your new project, I was just waiting for this announcement.
I won the bet with my wife.
Sure, this concept based on the 79, has its advantages, however, also various disadvantages, size, weight, use in the field etc.
I think the possibilities with a Troopy, are absolutely sufficient for 1-2 people.
We'll see what gets built next.
On this way, thank you for your videos and the way some topics are commented, we love this style!
To your family and you, despite all the circumstances, we wish Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
In the hope that we all next year again find better opportunities to travel.
Best wishes from Germany.
Clearview came up with smaller mirrors recently. Might be suitable for you, Andrew.
Get more legs on your canopy and they will stop each other from lifting. Also there are tilt fridge trays available now which do not weigh much. But the front opening fridge is perfect! Great rig ✌️😃
Beautiful Rig. Now where's the Jimny build Andrew?
May-be Andrew has been following Mighty Car Mods the JIMNY BUILD
Now he's starting to get worried they are getting more RUclips KICK regards being the experts in 4xAVD (LOL) than he has getting.
Envy is a cruel master.
That would be funny! 😂
I agree with you on the electronics. My friends are putting these huge complex systems in and I've just got a couple switches and a fuse box doing the same job for less then a quarter of the cost. Looking forward to your next build can't wait to see what you pick may I suggest a Mercedes G professional? Little bit more expensive but seem fine my 96 is great
I knew this vehicle was on the chopping block as soon as you said you didn't love it like the troopy.
Big news! I think it's all about business and content creation: build cars, document the process (create content) and sell the vehicle again. That's why I am a fan of this channel!
Losing your troopy was like losing a good woman.
The new woman looks good but just isn't the same.
Something that might be worth looking at when you're developing your remote switching system is an impulse or latching relay (two names for the same thing, though "impulse" is more commonly used for mains voltage). Some use power all the time to remain on, you'd probably want the ones that only use power when switching.
Using them is a very easy way of being able to have multiple switches that can each turn on or off something remotely. You put a momentary switch at each location you want to have control from, they pulse 12V to the relay, the relay then turns on or off. Redundancy - the relays are cheap so you can carry spares, there's very little to go wrong, and they are very easily bridged using a small bit of wire with terminals on the ends. You'd probably low side switch, that is have a 12V source at the relay end, through the relay coil, then you put a switch in between the coil and ground. Otherwise it gets really confusing with multiple sources of 12V flying around. To indicate whether a source is on (in cases where it's not obvious like the water boiler) you can take a tapping off through a fuse an run it to an indicator like the LEDs built in to Carling switches.
I saw your car up on Carsales last weekend and I'm not surprised you're selling it. You never seemed quite happy with it and seemed to be trying to convince yourself that it was the right car for you. Even just minor things like trying to park it get quite tedious when it's as big as it is.
I'm looking forward to seeing what you do next!
Just finished building my Ultimate Off-road tourer. Base vehicle lwb Suzuki Sierra. Taken a different path to the current trends. I only have 45 years of off-road experience.
There's not a lot wrong with this rig.
It's just that it isn't the rig for you, or for your trips around Oz.
I bet if you spent 6 months crossing, say, Asia or South America it'd be perfect.
You're in the enviable position of having had an opportunity to bring together all the features most people only ever aspire to (and never achieve), and now you can consider how you might refine and condense those features into a more suitable vehicle.
Let's face it, you really want this: www.campervanfinder.com.au/hire/wa-family-troopy-3-5-berth/
+EDIT+
If you don't like clicking links in comments, google "WA family troopy". :-)
I get it. Beautiful build. However, i think less is more. Surely to “ get away from it all” is to take less? Just a thought
Obviously RUclips has been good to our host. That vehicle has nearly every item you could put on it. I have a job and a pretty good one at that. I am not sure I could afford to buy all that stuff. I suppose that there are people who say " If there is a place for it I want it mounted, what ever it is". Quite frankly I doubt that many people really will have all this gear. I am sure that most of this is supplied by sponsors, if not than it must be Patreon money at work. I understand that there is a matter of convenience to the gear. This is not very realistic for the average person. Where is the fun in this really? Just another site that started with adventures and ends up as an advertisement show for off road-overland products. Gilding the lily comes to mind. In my opinion the show has lost something along the way. Certainly it has not slowed the addition of various pieces of equipment. Yes the vehicle has too many complicated systems and electronics. Superfluous indeed.
I was thinking the same thing and decided to read some comments first. At first the video was interesting and then after a while it was like whine, whine...poor me I can't get comfortable in a $150,00+ rig (most likely a lot more! ) Seriously, try going out in a sub $10,000 rig and get back to reality. This is ridiculous. The more you have the more you want and the more you realize nothing is going to satisfy. The channel has become unrealistic.
Thank you Andrew was glued to the screen from start to finish.. love you honesty so much. I full understanding what you are saying about best of both worlds..I 4×4 in the high country of Victoria all the time and I have made sacrifices form certain comfort to ability . But over many years I think I have found the line between both ..still learning every day though.. love you content.
You did not really explain why it is not an offroad vehicle...
Is it to big, to heavy?
Why was the Troopy a better offroad vehicle?
Plus behind the seats you could use more of the floor to ceiling space.
I will say it every single time, not being able to have a new troopy in the USA is the biggest disappointment to me in the off road world! Green with envy! I would rather spend the money on old tech any day than a new jeep
The motors have complex ECU's, DPF's and other emissions controls on them so they really aren't old tech at all. The only reason they are so popular in Australia is that Toyota and Nissan no longer make a dual solid axle wagon, if they did then you would see every Australian in a new version of an 80 series Landcruiser not a 79 series.
My suggestion is to mock-up the interior shape of a troupie in your garage, and actually sit with the space, and try to work in it. Then put in storage *around* that.
Most of the parts have been gifted to you and you are asking retail pricing for your rig. A bit steep don't you think?! Besides you have entered a special league. Which "normal" person can afford a $250'000 setup to go exploring and camping? Would be great if you could come up with a built which main stream people could afford and not only the rich...
Go watch any “Modified” episode.
Very nearly the perfect overlander, minus the self recognized areas for improvement.
Too bad you find hiluxes boring. An extended cab would be just the ticket.
Yep, IFS and DPF problems are just trivial for reliability - not. Hiluxes ARE boring to anyonewith a thinking brain.
100%, extra cabs are mint for when you occasionally need rear seats or just to have some easy interior storage. The extra tray length doesn't sound like it'll make a difference but it totally does (plus the weight can be arranged better). IMHO the best trick is that you can mount a popup roof top tent only over the tray and keep it below the roof height so you don't murder your highway fuel use.
@@einfelder8262 I believe the 79s had DPF problems too.
I would have thought an extra cab was perfect for this build, but he was insistent he needed the doors for his photography gear. I think that's where a compromise was in order.
You simply mentioned the Falken brand in one of your earlier vids as your new choice of tyre and that was enough for me to consider them as a replacement tyre on my daughters Wrangler after being a BFG fanboy for 30 odd years - so glad I did, couldn’t be happier with them. So if you’re listening Falken, that’s one sale you probably would not have gotten had it not been for this channel and I’ll rave about the Falkens to anybody who’ll listen.
I'm trying to get Falken to bring in the 255/85R16 in reasonable numbers. It is the perfect tyre for my next.
Hi Andrew SPW! I'm a bit late on this comment, but figured I had something relevant to add: based largely on your earlier reviews my wife and I bought ourselves a Tommy Camper (an early onset midlife crisis likely provoked by COVID lockdowns)! We had the 1st of two Tommy Campers brought into NZ and we've just returned from our maiden voyage around the South Island.
After our first trip in this camper the ONLY thing we can think about is how to get back out in it. I've never slept so well or enjoyed such an easy camp set up, I've also never spent so much money on recreational equipment, but despite that neither myself nor my long-enduring wife had the least regrets after our first trip.
Now this brings me to my main point: how can you sell your beautiful new rig?! I won't use the words "betrayal" or "heartbroken" or "full of a blind, all consuming rage", but I was looking forward to more Tommy Camper content from you! That being said *sigh* I respect the decision, and I understand the need for hardcore off-roading ability in your hardcore and sun baked neck of the woods; NZ is a touring rig country for sure. OBVIOUSLY you're making a huge mistake selling the Tommy Camper, but terrible decisions make for great content anyway, so should be good as gold (just busting your chops) :-)
I will end by saying that: despite the relentless nitpicking and what I suspect is clinically diagnosable "fussiness" when it comes to your rigs, you've been right about literally EVERYTHING that's overlapped with our own build, and you've saved us from a number of expensive disappointments, so thank you. I only wish you were 2 meters tall like me so you'd solve a number of "tall guy problems" that I end up having to deal with (the biggest being that the Land Cruiser utterly fails for taller drivers as the left leg has no place to rest as there's no centre console).
All the best from an ex-pat NY Yank living in NZ, maybe we'll see you on the trail some day.
Like all us 4x4 we try to multi-skill our rigs,finding the perfect setup is a conundrum. For me towing seems like the best balance between being a tourer and 4x4. Toyota has a great choice of 4x4 but have gone away from coil springs which are better than leaf for four wheel driving,as for towing Toyota's can tow all day with a van on the back. The perfect 4x4 land rover was on the right track with its coils and aluminum body but let us down with electronics and mechanical mismatch.
Are you considering waiting to see how the Ineos turns out when its finally released?
Personally I think your last Troopy was almost perfect. The full length wedge camper roof gave it the perfect balance of comfort and low bulk.
There’s no point him waiting that long I reckon. It won’t come earlier than promised, but it might be delayed, it will take some time to get any to Australia for people to buy, there will be fewer parts for it, and if you want a reliable vehicle never buy the first year of a new model.
I knew that you wouldn't be completely satisfied when you put out the video about the weight of the vehicle. I'm currently doing a restoration of a 1HZ Troopy so I've constantly been comparing this to a spartan Troopy type build. You want a bush truck. Spread your wings and fly, baby.
Andrew just buy a camper trailer... so you can set up , leave the camper and go 4wheeling .. way over complicated
My thoughts exactly. I have a 2020 Troopy and a 2014 Vista RV XL off-road camper. It's a great combination.
He will never tow! One should accept that.
@@GCTO239 yeah probably... but that’s the answer..if want all the gear he takes with him ..and he wants his wife to be comfortable and be able to actually reach things easily that’s the bloody answer.
I’ve never seen Andrew tackle any hard 4wd tracks in Australia Canning Stock yes isolated yes , but not technically difficult..
So why not tow ? I understand it’s just for RUclips content which is fine by me anyway..
@@sand_shifter agreed
I think you’re right, he should get himself a good of road camper and he’d be set. It’s disgraceful that someone can drop the sort of coin he has and can’t get it right. He’s not professional and is actually starting to become a bit of an idiot.
You should check out Roaming the Outback, well setup defender for offroading with touring.
Sounds like you are going to build a 6 wheeler to give you maximum offroad capability and rear end setup for touring
Dream tour correct , but a dream that will only ever come true for for most people if they win tatts. Maybe the next build should have a $100,000 budget.
that isn't going to buy a Toyota of any note except a prada
Thats why I like Seriously Series and Ronny Dahl. Old school camping with a tent and a fire place. I do not want an oven, hair dryer and sat dish in the outback.
@@mrcvry well you don't have to install a hair dryer or an oven.. the aim of a channel should always exceed the norm else I could just pop into my garage or my mates to show you what 95% of all tourers have. Won't make a good chann now would it
@@King88_8
His stories are that is interesting and not his gimmicks. .
@@mrcvry why did he insist you follow his lead? His builds are part of his stories. We've all done projects, maybe not all, that didn't turn out exactly like how we wanted. If one hasn't pushed the limits on has a very mundane life
Face/front opening fridges, not only does the contents fall out, but so does all the cold. Heat rises, therefore, the cold stays in chest fridges. Chest fridges are much more efficient just on this simple fact.
Another who hasn't used one, I'm guessing. Pulling all the contents out to get to the bottom of your chest fridge displaces just as much cold air. And the benefits in terms of weight saving over rule anything else in my opinion. Each to their own.
When Andrew was talking about the requirements of the new built he had explicitly stated that he wanted a place where he could edit his videos on the go. When I saw the Aussie dream tourer revealed I wondered where he could edit. Now he wants to go smaller. I wonder if able to edit on the road is still a requirement.
Did Andrew and wife not say there was less space to edit than in the Troopie? That's what I heard. So going 'smaller', where edit room is concerned, is not an option on the next build.
@@gotoylc I thought so too but the whole premise of the Aussie dream tourer was to be able to edit. So going smaller and still keeping the desire to edit on the go may translate to a different kind of set up than going smaller and abandoning the desire to edit on the go.
@@dimitristsagdis7340 I am eagerly awaiting the next build as you are too! I can't foresee Andrew giving up editing on the go.
@@gotoylc yeah, I think so too. Especially for long trips (in colder climates- as prior to COVID he was talking about a US your) editing will be a must. So I’m very curious to see his solution as this is something that interests me very much.
I’m really enjoying your videos. Thank you.
Another fantastic, honest review of what works and what doesn't. Thank you! Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and prosperous 2021! Cheers!
It would be nice to get an "in law suite" or many for taking about someone (tongue in cheek) not nice if they're lawsuits.
Sorry. I couldn't help myself.
Your passion about your builds shows every time you explain the features and the reasoning behind. It is great to see that you are realistic about what went well and what wasn't that great.
I’d still really like to see a Mercedes G-wagon chassis cab build. The Offroad capability is really great and the back allows you to build whatever you want.
@@DaciaProject I think the main problem with a Mercedes build is sponsorship. Not many accessory companies have the equipment so the ‘pool’ is a lot smaller to choose from. Second most Aussies have or want a land cruiser so to promote products for a land cruiser is really good business.
So I understand the ‘business challenges’ of a Merc build but man would it be something so very special!!
I know Andrew doesn’t like the single cab but that’s where the build can really be different, you extended the chassis of the cruiser...extend the cab of the g-wagon! Make it an extended cab or possibly if you really want a double cab. But I say an extended cab with access hatches on the outside. So camera gear is accessible from both inside and outside.
Then two options for the back...either a tray with canopy and standard 4x4 kit out or another camper canopy but smaller and lighter to avoid the dream tourer weight and size issue?
I’m sure Andrew would have great ideas for it and most importantly he’ll fall in love with it. But he’ll need some decent companies to work with and just don’t think there is anyone to back a G-wagon build.
Front opening fridge uses more power, all the cold falls out when you open the door and the compressor runs more often as a result.
ALU-CAB!
I've had my eye on several Alu-Cab products and in particular their pop up roof top tent for a Troopy. I hope that Alu-Cab reads this; if you think for one minute that I as a potential purchaser will allow you to operate your business practice in this way then you should note that you just lost a customer. If a person cannot offer an honest opinion on a product then what is the point in considering someone's opinion. Andrew, just so you know, I've noticed you tend to tap dance every now and again in your reviews. I guess we all know why now. I wonder how many other companies are in the business of threatening lawsuits?
I think it’s the company that distributes Ali-cab in Australia that he was talking about....I may be wrong though.
@@TroopyLife
I suppose that is possible, but he did the same thing with Alu-Cab’s awning. I thought that review was based in SA. Nevertheless, I had no idea that companies, regardless if a product was purchased outright or sponsored would put those kind of constraints, were out there. It makes me wonder what happened with BF Goodrich. If these are business practices that are out, it sure would be nice for consumers to know. It completely changes one’s perception when trying to do a build out.
It has nothing to do with Alu-Cab, and it always better to understand that there are 2 sides for each story.
@@Genesis-Import Then, please fill us in. Don't make a blanket statement like "there are 2 sides for each story" because that is not what Andrew said or wrote. He clearly said that it is a "design flaw" which regardless of whether or not it is an opinion, he clearly stated "I must clarify that because if I say anything other positive opinions about All-Cab products, their Australian distributor has threatened me with law suits. Which makes me reluctant to even mention the name." You cannot tell me that Alu-Cab does not know that this is going on regardless if it is SA or AU. If someone suggests that there is a design flaw, shouldn't that company reach out and find why? I'm not trying to get into a piss match, I clearly want people to understand that this is not how companies should operate. If Australia has some kind of law that prohibits a negative opinion, then so be it. And if that is the case, clearly state as such so that I and others can move on from watching INFLUENCERS like Andrew.
Maybe you need to do a bit more research rather than blindly follow the comments of someone who has most of his gear supplied free by manufacturers looking for exposure. I have no idea of the ins and outs of Andrew's dispute with Alucab, and I don't own any Alucab products but what I have seen of them would indicate that they are a quality offering. Do your own research maybe.
Would love to see your attempt at creating an awd suv capable of touring and some off-road driving
damn, there's way too many flys around you all the time. how can you live there?! you deserve better my friend. honestly. it's painful to watch.
I think you got the fridge setup wrong. The pull out and drop down tray /slide bracket would have made so much difference to how you use it and ease of use as opposed to the tilt system. It would have just made life easier by a long way. You say 30kg is too heavy and not practical. But did I hear you say somewhere 250ltr of Diesel on board?? plus 70 qtr of water. surely you could be ok with 200 or 180 ltrs of Diesel and use the weight saving for the drop down fridge. The colour is awesome as you stated and lots of other gems in the build.
Thought you weren't allowed to work
Work? Lol.
Man has to do what a man has to do. I am greatly looking forward to the next build. Unfortunately I am still coming to terms with why the Dream Tourer and not an offroad vehicle, after all it has everything. I can understand some of the short comings with the camper, but could a round 2 not have sorted that out? Work space was a little small in the camper for 2 people. Anyway, been an awesome experience for us all. ................Next time don't meet up with former loved vehicles lol.
Wow!! Im really early For this one!
Absolutely live your narration style Andrew! One can tell that a lot of thought has gone into what shall go onto the video.... Unlike the younger "influencer types" who just go through the vehicle like its some type of shopping list...without nuance or pause For more "conversational" detail, eg the stock mirrors vs clearview.
Absolutely brilliant.
Wow. That’s a LOT. No wonder it’s such a heavy vehicle!
Almost an hour of Andrew thoroughly going through his build made my day !
Not enough space in the tommy camper but the whole rig is too big...hmmm sounds like mutually exclusive goals.
Andrew hi, I fail to see the problem, where did this vehicle fail as a off-roader? Have you seriously put it through its paces because I fail to see any video that you have made where this was illuminated!
G'day, I very much agree with the redarc being too involved. I've been looking at the enerdrive system with the digital screen because it's easier (I'm not one to buy something I need a manual for nearby to use). I'm pretty new to building a camping/exploring ute and would be curious to hear any thoughts you have on the system.
I’m excited can’t wait to see the next build I know it will be epic. I’m with you I have to have a cruiser that is comfortable to travel but really good Offroad and in America the 80 series fits that bill for me
Oh yeah!! I can’t wait to see the next build unfold!!
This is going to be good 🙂
So much weight.
Andrew, perhaps you could include a simple gimbal system for a front opening fridge, similar to ovens in yachts.
A yacht gimbal? That will take up a lot of space, which is the problem. But solve any leaning issues that will never occur. Or am i missing something?
@@4xoverland I haven’t explained it well. Have a look at this video, scroll to about 40seconds or so. ruclips.net/video/j99up8JlOXs/видео.html
My suggestion was in response to your comment about everything falling out of the fridge on your US trip, yachts face a similar problem with ovens.
Andrew please don't take this as an offence but I thought the camper was a bit "heath Robinson". When your wife first saw the camper in the field it was obvious that she was not impressed and I share that view. With the new Land Rover Defender you shout from the rooftops about tech not being compatible with the bush. The Redarc electronics, complex water system, remote for this and that, differing lighting solutions for camper, differing lighting solutions for vehicle, the impracticality of a chest fridge that high (I am 6' 4''), et al means that this was a trial piece. If you want to go off road then this vehicle would take you to most places. You do not love it because it does not meet your personal criteria - it was a failed build. There are companies who build tray top campers in Australia for the 79 series that work better.
Ah, yes, Health Robinson. Very apt, to say there's a bit of him in this build.
I always thought Redarc sells fear to the non-engineers. There are plenty of cost effective solutions to what they are selling as a black box.
Pretty sure your fuel filter is plumbed up so that it will go through your after market one 1st then your original one after. If you do it how you described, then you have pretty much voided your warranty
I think it's time to buy an old Range Rover Classic and just sleep in the back like i do.
They just annouced that the Classic will be coming back as an electric vehicle!
You are definitely Aussie now Andrew, I can tell by your clothing. Hat, sunnies, t-shirt, shorts and thongs. The ‘long’ shorts make it more formal (appropriate for filming). The relaxed style is achieved by swapping to footy shorts with a beer logo on them. If you need to attend a formal function at short notice, just swap the thongs for deck shoes (no socks) and you’ll get in (just about) anywhere.
Any decent fabricator could resolve your tray bar height issue with minimal fuss and cost, and lower that heavy canopy 50mm in the process.. maybe worth doing if you plan keeping the truck for any length of time.
Great vehicle mods to make an already great platform even greater ! Well done. It's a shame to see it up for sale now but such is life I guess.
I agree with you that yes, many vehicles out there have waaaaaay too much over complicated crap thrown in simply because it can be or because a sponsor is throwing it in for the advertising rewards ( aimed more so at some other channels 😉 ). It's all just unnecessary crap that isn't needed that only complicates and costs $$$ when it starts to fail out of warranty period and yes it will fail !
Like bluetooth in a fridge for instance, do we really need this - I think not. Just more problems down the Nullarbor at 11 o'oclock at night when the fridge turns itself off for some unknown reason..... try fault finding when you have all that extra crap in your systems line.
Manufacturers please take note - we would rather reliability than gimmicks. Don't include unnecessary rubbish in your design just because you can.
Look at Engle fridges for example. Simple basic design with really only one major part that moves. They still power on strong 20 years later. Bit like an old Land Rover pre-electronics.
And it's sooooo frustrating when things like your bluetooth control on your phone just won't do what it's supposed to - I get very annoyed too with stuff like that !!! Remote phone control and apps etc may look good in a brochure and may be all a manufacturer has to stand out in a competitive market I guess, but stuff like is just not needed and often not wanted either. Don't complicate it for the sake of it.
One thing I noticed too, you mentioned the Runva winch is an Australian winch - not sure if you meant Australian made or Australian owned but just to clarify they are in fact one of the first winch manufacturers to take winch design over to China for cheaper manufacturing costs way back in 1997. They class themselves as a a large international brand with an extensive distributor network set up in over 50 countries so I'm probably guessing they're not even Australian owned ( can't confirm ).
Shame really that we can't manufacture competitively here in this once great manufacturing country of ours.
Sell it. Do a 200 series with drawers in the back. Keep it simple. Get a GVM upgrade. Leave out all the unnecessary gadgets and simplify the 12v setup. Sleep on a stretcher using a swag covered by a rhino 270 awning and walls. In my opinion this would be the ultimate setup for you.
This, no condensation issues in a simple swag vs roof top tents that people spend 5k+ on
@@KaizenOz exactly. Never get wet. Swag doesn't even get wet.
He wants a vehicle to be able to edit content while on a trip. He has said this many times. Swag is terrible for that.
@@jeep6242 the awning and walls create the perfect space to eat, sleep, edit etc out of the elements.
@@jeep6242 so this current set up works for editing ?
I personally still think that the Troopy was a better fit for the types of trips you seem to love doing. I am biased though because your last Troopy is probably my favourite vehicle of all time. Any chance you have furthered your plans for doing a budget vehicle build?
I have been following you for awhile and this shows me you will never will be happy with your rig! Haha
I think an IFS vehicle is more suited to overlanding, that way you get the good handling that you need for long trips.
Its only not good off road as you have everything including the kitchen sink on board. Just reduce the luxury items and reduce the weight, and you then will quadruple its off road ability.
It's pretty low slung for the wheelbase though. It would be really easy to hang it up without going to 35 inch tires, but it's already too tall of a vehicle for them.
Buy a motorhome and tow a Jimny 😉
You can watch TV from your couch whilst your dinner is roasting, wander off to your en-suite, then jump in the Jimny and conquer the trails/beach.
Doesn't want to tow a trailer because it limits where you can go off road, invests a quarter of a million $ in a vehicle which was supposed to be better. Probably should have went with an off road trailer in hindsight. Would have had the capability to tour, go off road or both. And I mean off road trailer, and not a caravan, or a hybrid, or even one of those fold out tent things that you see all in caravan parks or the likes. Something like a DOT or Patriot. No doubt you could get pretty creative, especially when you look at what has been built here.
Yeah, when you consider where he's been in this rig you could have taken taken any 4WD and a camper trailer, it seems the "I won't tow" argument doesn't stack up much versus the actual use.
Honestly I hate trailers too.
But if I were him I think a viable path would be to set up the vehicle to be a one man palace of an offroader and then tow a trailer for when the wife comes along and the trip will be more for touring.
Would have been fun to see him try it out before he sold the Troopy.
Yes but won't tow but this rig is worse any many ways I have mentioned before he hasn't gone anywhere you can't take a trailer so his argument doesn't make sense.
A 4x4 is like a motorbike, you cant have everything in one, everything is a compromise. But from watching your shows im not sure ive seen you really test this ones ability? Im sure you obviously have just would have been great to see. Only one that comes to mind is when you got stuck in the sand and had to get the traks out.
I’ve never seen him in any extreme off roading..just flat desert or dirt
I had a feeling you’d sell it....it’s a beautiful 4wd but it’s too “bulky” looking in my opinion......in the mean time, I’d like to say Andrew that I’ve had many many hours of enjoyment watching your videos . Keep rolling away. Happy wheeling. Steve 🇦🇺
I have the same issue with my Redvision. Albeit it works very well without other problems, I do have Bluetooth connection issues often. When it stops connecting, I go to the display, go into the Bluetooth pairing, it often reboots and sometimes not - in my opinion, is there is a software issue with the blue tooth pairing.