Hi Andrew. I started driving automatic gearboxes about 2018. I am from South Africa and as you well know, auto are frowned upon is South Africa. It was however the best thing I could have ever done. When we go to the national parks, no more clutch...no more millions of gear changes and it transformed my photography experience ....a million times better. we are about the same age, so you will know what I am talking about. Enjoy
Its not froened uponin SA. Its because auto variants used to be VERY expensive thats why ppl went manual but the last 10 years with the gd6 toyota fortuner/hilux have changed everything more and more cars are getting auto boxes at lower entry points also
Isn’t the issue with auto that they can’t be towed? 10 days ago I managed to chafe though a rear coolant pipe on a LC200 in the middle of nowhere (near Puros in Namibia). Managed a workaround, but was confronted by this issue.
@@DrChrisvdH yes it is why I used the phrase frowned upon. in 1986 i went to my brothers wedding with a Ford Cortina big 6 xle auto and the battery packed up on the trip. so after a refuel 4 am we could not get it started and push start not possible, so after the trip I changed the gearbox to manual 5 speed. we had to push that car 5km far to another garage in town that time of the morning to get someone to help us jump start it.
@@DrChrisvdH you can tow in auto. The rule was just to not tow in 5th/6th gear on a very steep uphill. Just go to a lower gear. Other tha that,no issues. Always check your engine bay regulary when on trips . Checking the hoses and areas where it can chafe. Also electrical wites where it may chafe. Check your wheelbearings and especially brakes/rotors always before a trip. In the car and trailer.
After 40 years you've earned the right to make decisions as you see fit, keep up the good work. Others can have their own opinions but it doesn't mean they're worth anything... I'm more excited by the van too, keen to see how it goes once built. ❤
Mate, I've always enjoyed your videos. Your wife hit the nail on the head with the fact that troopies are all the same and they've been done to death. Doing the CSR in a van will be more of a challenge, and that in itself is the draw card, and will make for some genuinely fresh content.
Troopy over van...there is something about this car...I always look at my Troopy. When I get out of it and walk away, I turn around. When it's parked in front of my house I often just look at it. Would I do the same with a van? Never!!! The Troopy is a legend of a car. Icon!
Your money, your choices. So long as you're happy with the results of what you've done with the Troopy (incl. the graphics), then that's all that matters.
Hi Andrew, great troopy build. No doubt the best platform on the market for what your building it for. However, I've got to totally agree with Gwen, "same old" so over troopy builds. The Van is where it's at.
I must say, I always watch most of your videos and enjoy them to the fullest when I see your land cruiser with the black wrap and those black wheels. My first response was, wow. Do I ever like that, I'm not a black and white type of person, but I really thought that looked good. Well done, and tastefully done to. I personally don't have a land cruiser, but I do have a 2016 toyota 4runner trail with kdss, that is, not quite to your extent, but is decked out for overlandding to. She's been a great vehicle to own, and I really couldn't see myself having anything else. Good luck with the build and be safe out there. Coming to you from Vancouver bc.
Awesome answer and response at the end to everyone in pity city. I think I like the grey troopy the best for me it's just a mean eye pleasing troopy. But holy that new 2.8 just screams old school safari. I think the modern compact lines complements the modern twist on the old school front end. It's perfect for this build.
I’m a van man and an old 4wd driver. The Hi Ace conversion to me is very exciting. The best of all worlds, interior space and true off road ability. I currently have my first automatic vehicle and I agree manual gives you more feel and control. The auto box changes your driving style and I feel less connected.
Welcome to the Van life!! I’ve driven multiple wranglers multiple forerunners, full size trucks, rangers rock, buggies, and nothing gets peoples attention on the trail or at a fueling station, like pulling up in a big lifted 4 x 4 van!! I am giving more thumbs up and ask more questions than any of my other vehicles combined in the last 20 years…
My god! Andrew, everything about this Troopy is positively beautiful - right down to the wiring. Congratulations. I sit here across the pond in Los Angeles in abject envy of what you have created, and I’m absolutely thrilled for you. Enjoy every mile.
Well you will be recognised everywhere you go Andrew. One of a kind sensational looking troopy. And the look has an African feel to it which is appropriate as it’s yours. The canning in a Hiace van !! I love it. The first one ever I’m guessing. Love the build videos 👍
We love the wrap on the Troopy! It looks so good. Here, In the US there seems to be a dearth of people that want to make their trucks better looking. We painted stripes on our truck and love it that way. We also love Gwen's green and white blouse with the cat. It's adorable! Thank you for another great and well edited video.
oh my word this is the best looking one yet! i cannot get over how cyberpunk and wild it is while simultaneously being so subtle and soft.... this truck has completely nailed the aesthetic of the troopy. so so good.
I don't know what more you can do with a Troopy - I'd love to own that but the van is what we're all waiting for - yourself included from what you say. I can foresee a MK2 van build in 2025
"They" say, you don't build what you want, you build what you have. I think, Andrew, when someone with your experience builds out the van, you will open up a whole new world of possibilities for overlanders who may not have access to a Troopy., or a Jeep, or who just wants something different. I'm looking forward to it. Thank you. Also, I'm with you on a manual transmission. I have a 2016 Ram and I can't help thinking what a beast it would be with a manual.
Thank you so much 6:22 Andrew! I like your new Troopy very much - but appreciate your comments concerning the great V8 engine with manual gear box. It‘s a pity, but you are the one specialist left, who speaks out loudly, that a 2.8 never really can be better than the 4.5 V8 in all aspects. Never!
Love the look, probably your best to date. 100% agree with you regarding a manual box; it just feels better. I love my V8 Troopy (2011), I've built it perfectly for me. Great video. Cheers
Personally I think you've got it perfect, visually and total practicality ❤👌 Knowing your perfectionist side, I'm sure you'll never be totally happy, BUT Andrew you have to know, everyone else would find this Troppy excellent for purpose!!!
Stunning! Absolutely stunning graphics Andrew. Your team of technicians and designers should be very proud of their creations. Enjoy that moment when you walk away from it and steal that "one last look". You know what I mean.
Hi Andrew, I started looking your videos since 2023. It’s really enjoyable and interesting to see what is possible! And at the end I’ve bought a GRJ 76, 70th anniversary model in 2024. I’m happy to start a little modification…..best regards from Germany, Jens
I do like the new retro design, it looks awesome! Regarding the full body wrap, will you miss the paint protection "function"? on my 90 series I've got painful scratches in the bush.
I will be importing the full Klarmen rear system to Panama and installing it myself. Your 6 day install will become my 4 month install. All aspects of it will be new to me but I can't wait to get started. I'm nervous already actually. Thanks for the video.
Yeah, we've heard it, heard it, and still hearing it cos everyone says it.......Troopies are the best - got it! But there's no room for living in comfort, unless you're a mouse. Looking forward to the van build Andrew. Will be interesting for 4wd enthusiasts + vanlifers.
Vehicle graphics will have to grow on me, like the backend but the front doors and the bonnet I’m yet to realise. Very high end fit out in the rear, look forward to the finished product and shakedown trip. Well done. I love auto off-road in my Disco.
Troopy is looking Gooood! I am also VERY excited to see what you do with the Hiace - mostly because, if I could muster together the money for a vehicle, it would likely be more achievable to get my hands of a Hiace than a Troopy. Be assured: I'm watching this space!
Hi Andrew, nice job. Like the colour and scheme. Simple, effective, distinctive and pleasing. Like the modularity of the whole inside. Winner and considering an import for me. Very well done. Kind regards Gavin
I’ve been overlandind for 52 years, I’ve never fitted anything permanently, boxes instead of draws,portable , no bull bar, power system,no winch,, and I’ve successfully travelled over almost of Aus dessert tracks with no problems
I think it’s fantastic and unique especially the lines in black contrasting in a white background. This is great imagination. Will suit in African bush than in Australia. Would love to have one for myself ❤
Your Troopy Builds are inspiring and push my dream in buying a Troopy in 2025. It may not be a new 2.8, but even a 5 - 10 year old V8 in good nick and build it up to what suits me is still my dream.
Absolutely amazing look, and your beard is looking great too... I'm building my 1995 FZJ80 triple locked LC. Currently named the Dan Cruiser..... Thank you for sharing.
Hi ASPW! I suggest you look at changing your current DC-DC chargers to the Orion XS 50A DC-DC charger. MUCH more efficient and a few very handy features and parameters to play with. Hope they are already available in Aus. I made the change to the new XS in both my bakkies and it's a game changer. Cheers!
The wrap on the Troopy a definite change in style. I’d love to see how that can transfer to the Hiace as well. The two next to each other is a great visual and I’m really excited to see how the Hiace tackles the. Anni g Stock Route. I fell in love with the Hiace in South Africa last year. Please Andrew make mine and Glenn’s dreams as reality
The new wrap is great and fits the shape of the Troopy perfectly. The HiAce is a completely different animal…..curvy gals can’t wear the same fashion items as their skinny cousins…..but both can present a great finish!
Nice job on the Troopy Andrew, an evolution not a revolution. Monochrome scheme - nice, great graphics by the team, certainly stamps an individual look over the abundance of Taup out there. I can appreciate your enthusiasm for the Canning with the Amazon delivery van though. Back to the Monty Python days - "Now for something completely different"
Your green troopy was the best looking but still like the look of this 👌
Hi Andrew. I started driving automatic gearboxes about 2018. I am from South Africa and as you well know, auto are frowned upon is South Africa. It was however the best thing I could have ever done. When we go to the national parks, no more clutch...no more millions of gear changes and it transformed my photography experience ....a million times better. we are about the same age, so you will know what I am talking about. Enjoy
Its not froened uponin SA. Its because auto variants used to be VERY expensive thats why ppl went manual but the last 10 years with the gd6 toyota fortuner/hilux have changed everything more and more cars are getting auto boxes at lower entry points also
@@SamF-vc9ghShould have phrased that differently I suppose. well picked up and well corrected. I agree to the rest you said.👍👍👍
Isn’t the issue with auto that they can’t be towed? 10 days ago I managed to chafe though a rear coolant pipe on a LC200 in the middle of nowhere (near Puros in Namibia). Managed a workaround, but was confronted by this issue.
@@DrChrisvdH yes it is why I used the phrase frowned upon. in 1986 i went to my brothers wedding with a Ford Cortina big 6 xle auto and the battery packed up on the trip. so after a refuel 4 am we could not get it started and push start not possible, so after the trip I changed the gearbox to manual 5 speed. we had to push that car 5km far to another garage in town that time of the morning to get someone to help us jump start it.
@@DrChrisvdH you can tow in auto. The rule was just to not tow in 5th/6th gear on a very steep uphill. Just go to a lower gear. Other tha that,no issues. Always check your engine bay regulary when on trips . Checking the hoses and areas where it can chafe. Also electrical wites where it may chafe. Check your wheelbearings and especially brakes/rotors always before a trip. In the car and trailer.
The wrap reminded me of the graphics on a 1970's International Scout. Top notch.
I like the graphics on this. Retro inspired. Look good. Accentuate the angular, boxy shape of the vehicle itself.
That’s why the world goes around. I hate the graphics. Look crap.
I’m with her …… we love the van!
The Troopy is perfected. Righto - now for the van. Thanks for taking us with you mate. Bring it on.
After 40 years you've earned the right to make decisions as you see fit, keep up the good work. Others can have their own opinions but it doesn't mean they're worth anything... I'm more excited by the van too, keen to see how it goes once built. ❤
Looks outstanding. I bet it makes it easier to let go of your past vehicles when you see one like that waiting on you.
Mate, I've always enjoyed your videos. Your wife hit the nail on the head with the fact that troopies are all the same and they've been done to death. Doing the CSR in a van will be more of a challenge, and that in itself is the draw card, and will make for some genuinely fresh content.
Troopy over van...there is something about this car...I always look at my Troopy. When I get out of it and walk away, I turn around. When it's parked in front of my house I often just look at it. Would I do the same with a van? Never!!! The Troopy is a legend of a car. Icon!
Your money, your choices. So long as you're happy with the results of what you've done with the Troopy (incl. the graphics), then that's all that matters.
Hi Andrew, great troopy build. No doubt the best platform on the market for what your building it for. However, I've got to totally agree with Gwen, "same old" so over troopy builds. The Van is where it's at.
I must say, I always watch most of your videos and enjoy them to the fullest when I see your land cruiser with the black wrap and those black wheels. My first response was, wow. Do I ever like that, I'm not a black and white type of person, but I really thought that looked good. Well done, and tastefully done to. I personally don't have a land cruiser, but I do have a 2016 toyota 4runner trail with kdss, that is, not quite to your extent, but is decked out for overlandding to. She's been a great vehicle to own, and I really couldn't see myself having anything else. Good luck with the build and be safe out there. Coming to you from Vancouver bc.
Awesome answer and response at the end to everyone in pity city. I think I like the grey troopy the best for me it's just a mean eye pleasing troopy. But holy that new 2.8 just screams old school safari. I think the modern compact lines complements the modern twist on the old school front end. It's perfect for this build.
I’m a van man and an old 4wd driver. The Hi Ace conversion to me is very exciting. The best of all worlds, interior space and true off road ability. I currently have my first automatic vehicle and I agree manual gives you more feel and control. The auto box changes your driving style and I feel less connected.
Welcome to the Van life!! I’ve driven multiple wranglers multiple forerunners, full size trucks, rangers rock, buggies, and nothing gets peoples attention on the trail or at a fueling station, like pulling up in a big lifted 4 x 4 van!! I am giving more thumbs up and ask more questions than any of my other vehicles combined in the last 20 years…
This video is a return to form Andrew. Doing what you do best.
I think your Troopy is sweet. It’s a very unique design you don’t see a lot, and it is somewhat retro looking.
My god! Andrew, everything about this Troopy is positively beautiful - right down to the wiring. Congratulations. I sit here across the pond in Los Angeles in abject envy of what you have created, and I’m absolutely thrilled for you. Enjoy every mile.
Oooo nice! 1980's 4Runner vibes happening here.
Well you will be recognised everywhere you go Andrew. One of a kind sensational looking troopy. And the look has an African feel to it which is appropriate as it’s yours. The canning in a Hiace van !! I love it. The first one ever I’m guessing. Love the build videos 👍
We love the wrap on the Troopy! It looks so good. Here, In the US there seems to be a dearth of people that want to make their trucks better looking. We painted stripes on our truck and love it that way. We also love Gwen's green and white blouse with the cat. It's adorable! Thank you for another great and well edited video.
This is a very good looking Troopy but my favourite will stay the grey one.
oh my word this is the best looking one yet! i cannot get over how cyberpunk and wild it is while simultaneously being so subtle and soft.... this truck has completely nailed the aesthetic of the troopy. so so good.
I don't know what more you can do with a Troopy - I'd love to own that but the van is what we're all waiting for - yourself included from what you say. I can foresee a MK2 van build in 2025
"They" say, you don't build what you want, you build what you have. I think, Andrew, when someone with your experience builds out the van, you will open up a whole new world of possibilities for overlanders who may not have access to a Troopy., or a Jeep, or who just wants something different. I'm looking forward to it. Thank you. Also, I'm with you on a manual transmission. I have a 2016 Ram and I can't help thinking what a beast it would be with a manual.
Thank you so much 6:22 Andrew! I like your new Troopy very much - but appreciate your comments concerning the great V8 engine with manual gear box. It‘s a pity, but you are the one specialist left, who speaks out loudly, that a 2.8 never really can be better than the 4.5 V8 in all aspects. Never!
Rounded sun visor on the windscreen really clashes with the new shape and the angular decals. A great looking rig overall though!
The challenge of a new vehicle is a trip in itself. Love that.
You're right: it's a retro callback, but modern! It'll turn heads for sure. It's a great look!
Love the look, probably your best to date. 100% agree with you regarding a manual box; it just feels better. I love my V8 Troopy (2011), I've built it perfectly for me. Great video. Cheers
It’s stunning Andrew, congratulations. It really makes me like the look of the new front end on the Troopy. Fantastic design.
Obviously you need to take both vehicles on the Canning. I can surely see a fight happening with Mr Klarmann over who gets to drive the van haha
Personally I think you've got it perfect, visually and total practicality ❤👌
Knowing your perfectionist side, I'm sure you'll never be totally happy, BUT Andrew you have to know, everyone else would find this Troppy excellent for purpose!!!
Stunning! Absolutely stunning graphics Andrew. Your team of technicians and designers should be very proud of their creations. Enjoy that moment when you walk away from it and steal that "one last look". You know what I mean.
Hi Andrew, I started looking your videos since 2023. It’s really enjoyable and interesting to see what is possible! And at the end I’ve bought a GRJ 76, 70th anniversary model in 2024. I’m happy to start a little modification…..best regards from Germany, Jens
I do like the new retro design, it looks awesome!
Regarding the full body wrap, will you miss the paint protection "function"? on my 90 series I've got painful scratches in the bush.
Like the sharp design but agree about protection!
That wrap is next level and the Klarmann interior is superb, you certainly excell at building overland vehicles
Indeed, Andrew. That is a good-looking truck. It's very 80's retro meets 2024 in my eyes. Very cool.
I will be importing the full Klarmen rear system to Panama and installing it myself. Your 6 day install will become my 4 month install. All aspects of it will be new to me but I can't wait to get started. I'm nervous already actually. Thanks for the video.
Yeah, we've heard it, heard it, and still hearing it cos everyone says it.......Troopies are the best - got it! But there's no room for living in comfort, unless you're a mouse. Looking forward to the van build Andrew. Will be interesting for 4wd enthusiasts + vanlifers.
Gorgeous! Thank you. Yeah, I love the troopy and it is very different to a van! incomparable really. Totally different culturally too.
Vehicle graphics will have to grow on me, like the backend but the front doors and the bonnet I’m yet to realise. Very high end fit out in the rear, look forward to the finished product and shakedown trip. Well done.
I love auto off-road in my Disco.
The green one is my favourite. I do like it though it’s a little bit of a throwback to the land cruisers of the 80’s
Hi mr. Andrew. You’ve just turned that troopy into an absolutely georgeous Autograph troopy. Thank you for showing us.
It just looks gorgeous 😊
I always try to remember about hitting the "Like it" button.
However, for Andrew's videos there definitely should be a "Love it" button!
it's better to be true to yourself than give in to judgement from others
it looks larger with the wrap. stunning enjoy!
Andrew you are simply amazing.
Troopy is looking Gooood!
I am also VERY excited to see what you do with the Hiace - mostly because, if I could muster together the money for a vehicle, it would likely be more achievable to get my hands of a Hiace than a Troopy. Be assured: I'm watching this space!
The Van! 😂 Your wife is the best!❤
That’s a real beauty,Best one yet by far..
Hi Andrew, nice job. Like the colour and scheme. Simple, effective, distinctive and pleasing. Like the modularity of the whole inside. Winner and considering an import for me. Very well done. Kind regards Gavin
Good to see something different, mate. Love it big Troopy fan myself. Love anybody out there trying something new.
Have to be honest, it looks fantastic, it really does, love it, stunning troopy ‼️ Looking forward to the Van build too👌🏻
I’ve been overlandind for 52 years, I’ve never fitted anything permanently, boxes instead of draws,portable , no bull bar, power system,no winch,, and I’ve successfully travelled over almost of Aus dessert tracks with no problems
Top notch video Andrew. Love it and love your honesty.
No judgement here just enjoyment… thanks Andrew
You’re a legend mate, keep up the great work and highly insightful videos.
Love the looks of the troopy!
Can't wait to see the finished van
I think it’s fantastic and unique especially the lines in black contrasting in a white background.
This is great imagination. Will suit in African bush than in Australia.
Would love to have one for myself ❤
Wow what an amazing transformation, those minimal decals have totally transformed her. Love the build series, keep the great work. 👍😎🍻
You outdid yourself this time.Outstanding and awesome.Thanks for sharing and taking us along.
Your Troopy Builds are inspiring and push my dream in buying a Troopy in 2025. It may not be a new 2.8, but even a 5 - 10 year old V8 in good nick and build it up to what suits me is still my dream.
Great job, Andrew! Your projects are truly inspiring.
Good work Andrew. Looks nice and definitely different. But the previous two just looked that bit better I think.
I like both, the Van and the new troopy. Great cars
First honest opinion on the 2.8 vs. V8, awesome explanation
Don't think he's tuned the 2.8 yet though...
this may be my favorite looking troopy so far Andrew!
Absolutely amazing look, and your beard is looking great too... I'm building my 1995 FZJ80 triple locked LC. Currently named the Dan Cruiser..... Thank you for sharing.
Congratulations on the great build; the Cruiser looks fantastic. You should be very proud.
Good on yah Andrew, and for what it's worth mate, we love your videos all the way from Uganda, East Africa 🌍 ❤😊🇺🇬
The wrap looks spectacular
Hi ASPW! I suggest you look at changing your current DC-DC chargers to the Orion XS 50A DC-DC charger. MUCH more efficient and a few very handy features and parameters to play with. Hope they are already available in Aus. I made the change to the new XS in both my bakkies and it's a game changer. Cheers!
I use Redarc. After trying several types, these are only ones that I have had 100% success rate. No intention of changing them.
The bonnet looks great - the stripy sides will have to grow on me!
Wrap came out stunning and the Jimny in the background provided extra smiles. 🙌🏼
The traditional blue or green with those strips in black would look mint👌
I am looking forward to the van build series as, like you said, it is different to the usual Troopy builds.
Both vehicles are beyond stunning!
Happy trails, in whatever form that may take!
The wrap on the Troopy a definite change in style. I’d love to see how that can transfer to the Hiace as well. The two next to each other is a great visual and I’m really excited to see how the Hiace tackles the. Anni g Stock Route. I fell in love with the Hiace in South Africa last year. Please Andrew make mine and Glenn’s dreams as reality
The new wrap is great and fits the shape of the Troopy perfectly. The HiAce is a completely different animal…..curvy gals can’t wear the same fashion items as their skinny cousins…..but both can present a great finish!
Can't wait for the van. It already looks awesome
Nice job on the Troopy Andrew, an evolution not a revolution. Monochrome scheme - nice, great graphics by the team, certainly stamps an individual look over the abundance of Taup out there.
I can appreciate your enthusiasm for the Canning with the Amazon delivery van though.
Back to the Monty Python days - "Now for something completely different"
Contrasting black and white. Looks very sharp.
You really love to talk about your experience. We all know you're really an experienced off roader you don't have to remind us all the time.
I used to have a troopy, still got a soft spot for them. Your troopy looks really good.
It’s really unique and interesting… will be great to see in action, more to absorb than a colour
This getting more & more interesting.
Retro modern, looks great!
View from the driver seat - fabulous! - Enthusiasm like Roothe's
Very nice. I've been following your build since the beginning, also looking forward to more of the van build. Keep up the great work!
Canning + van = can’t wait!!
Super sharp, great stripes! Cruise on. 80 series for life.
Wrap looks great.
Yep I must say looks 👍
I am trying to wrap my Tacoma Access Cab (xtra cab w/clamshell doors) in the LC 79 Sandy Taupe.
The wrap looks GREAT!!!
This Troopy looks nice. Your previous Troopy from 2021 looked fabulous! Good that the partial rapping can be removed rather easily.
Looks awesome Andrew.