In this episode we drive into *_4x4 Megaworld Strijdom park_* and begin the process of kitting the *SMARTCAP* _Smart Tray and Canopy_ out, from RSi. Thank you to everyone involved in helping with this massive undertaking.
Very nice setup! I also invested in a complete Victron and LifEpo4 Battery setup a month ago ~ Makes a *HUGE* difference!! Smiles all round! Thank you for sharing
Thank you, and glad you enjoyed this one. Yes, it's amazing when you get great confidence in your electrical setup. Huge difference and still smiling. Allot of money spent, but we'll worth it IMO
The canopy and tray combo is looking awesome Ryan! Hopefully the 'Aus" influences would come in more and more to SA and become more accessible. With your table needs, I'd just add in a top layer to your slide out tray at the back that's dead space at the moment and utilise that as a slide out table.
Hi Carel, good to hear from you bud. It will happen, but import costs are a real deterrent to get Aus products into SA. I think SA fabricators will start making similar systems, but, costs are very high and maybe the SA market isn't ready to make the full commitment to doing upgrades like this. Time will tell, all I can say is that it is a very welcome upgrade. Really changes the way one will overland. Yes, was thinking something similar regarding the slide out table. My brain is working it out, and kind of have 2 options to go at this stage. Whatever we end up doing, it will look sick mate 👌
Thank you Chris. Allot of work mate, and a solid performance from the team. Almost beast, a few more additions and then overlanding will be allot more efficient
This is a solid addition and investment. Look forward to seeing how it pans out on your next extended road trip... truth will defo be in the pudding. Like!
hi, loce your videos mate, i am south african living in the middle east and would love to come back to do some overlanding, you have remotivated me to come back to my beautiful country
Thank you Brett. Always great to look back at the vehicle when parked up. We have come a long way. Really a great feeling. Keep well mate, and thanks for your support
This guy!!!! 🙆🏾 after watching so many of your episodes and wishing that one day I will be able to get an offroad trailer and enjoy life you. I bought the trailer last week then boom, you sold yours
🤣🤣 so sorry mate. Costs were high and trying to run as full time RUclipsr we had to sell. Don't worry bud, your off road trailer will serve you well 👍 thanks for your support mate
Well done Ryan!! The ranger and your new setup look incredible. I am sure you will tweak and change as you get to learn what works and what doesn't. Kudos for thinking and going BIG. Seems like the adventure has only just begun. Looking forward to following the journey.
Thank you Charl, and yes, a massive leap forward I reckon. Can't wait to take you on the journey and how it all works out there. Much appreciated legend 🤟
The journey is always amazing, and what an awesome thing to have you guys on the adventure. She has definitely come a long way mate. Almost done, but first, some trips
I suggest you put your recovery kit, fuel filter, belts and car parts and car liquids on the long back drawer at the back of your rig, well done on your build.
Nice canopy. Well worked out for your needs. Also looks easy to customise to a person's own need for overlanding. For a single person straight forward. Little more complicated when the family camps with you without the trailer or caravan hooked on. Let us see a video with the family traveling with please Ryan 👍
Thanks Innes. Yes, it will definitely be a bit more complicated with a family trip. I'm hoping with the ability to pack on top of the floor I'll have space. My better half likes to carry everything, including the kitchen sink 🤣 As for another family trip, have to try and get water Plumbed in before that happens. Maybe when I'm able to meet the needs and wants of my tribe, then we'll go in the Bush. That would be next level mate
@@4x4ventures_southafrica love your you tube channel when you travel with Edward and Christo. Guys are organised. Need to sae mkre places from you so we can overland and explore. Maybe have another meet and greet weekend so we can join in the future 👍🏻
Excellent growth in group friendship overlanding you EB and friends , Envy!!!! Rig excellent!!! your future plans with kitchen sounds like marvellous and contact mikem Daryl for suspension upgrade you won't regret it .
Hi Markus, yes, one of the best, if not the best parts to overlanding is the relationships we've been fortunate to build. Good friends. Thanks mate, at this stage budgets don't allow the suspension upgrades, but if anyone is keen to help, then I'm only too happy for the necessary support. Let's see how it goes mate. She is heavy, but still able to go the extra mile. Loving it
Great upgrade Ryan, I think this will be a game changer to you off-roading adventure, I’m sure cameraman is green with envy, haha…. Can you share a full list/ breakdown of the other upgrades particularly the lights and power units? Lastly not sure if it’s covered in a previous episode but what RTT is that?
Thanks, I will be doing a full review of this setup and will mention the list breakdown, and lights. The RTT is a WILDLANDS Desert Cruiser RTT from Jackal Field Equipment. Check out their website for pricing in South Africa. Worth it in my opinion for sure
Another great video in another great series, brilliant! What was the final weight "Overlandiing ready" or is that still coming up? I'm keen to see if you will meet the vehicles GVM and if not, what are your thoughts on that from a safety\insurance point of view? Cheers
Looks great, we'll done. However, i think your vehicle is going to be very heavy when fully laden with your kit and supplies and fuel, and 2nd spare wheel and additional battery etc etc Also consider putting those recovery tracks somewhere else......the day will come when they will be full of mud and its going to make a huge mess in your nice clean canopy. Just a thought. Good luck with the rest of your mods.
100% Wayne, weight is a problem. I've always been candid with that fact. One of those things we can't escape, especially on longer trips. Once budget allows, maybe I can get the suspension upgrade to help. Would be lekker if support came on board, think it would be a great test. I hear you with regards to the recovery tracks. Was thinking of getting a bag made to prevent dirt and mud from causing a problem. Some great input from you. Really appreciated legend. Lets see how this one goes.
Also, don't think that by putting a strong suspension that it's going to cure your challenges, it just means u are likely to load more weight and making your problem worse. Think soft sand and mud.
Enjoyed the video and love the canopy. It just seems you have really compromised your tray space by adding the massive fridge. How easy it the going to be getting in and out when it is full? I suspected two smaller fridges would have been easier. Also putting day to day things under the floors seems a bit silly as you will have unpack everything on top to get to it? Finally love the kitchen in a try at the back idea. Just might not have much space when both wheels are on. Look forward to the final.
Thank you Kendrick. I loved my trailer. Had to sell it because we got it for my wife and kids, but they aren't as camping savvy nor was it being used for that purpose. Using a trailer for myself seemed quite excessive, even though perfect, but we had to sell on account of finance. Going RUclips isn't revenue friendly. I've always wanted a tray and canopy, and in SA, to be one of the first to try and test this unit, seemed a no brainer. Subsequent, I've realised that this unit is bang on perfect for my overlanding needs. There are a few more additions I have to make, but, it is just right for right now. Cheaper than a trailer, by a smidgen, and for single use, excellent. I do miss my trailer though. Hope this helps
Very slick build and looks the business. Quick question on your thoughts Vs an Alucab canopy camper given you don't need an RTT and can escape the elements inside And access from outside.
Hi Mike, I haven't been able to test the alu cab products so I can't really give you a comparison. I went this route because it is a lighter option, I think. To get out of the elements I would use a 270 awning, which I don't have as yet. The tent on top is a welcome addition. Being able to get into a room, such as the alu cab option would definitely be welcomed, but for different needs and wants I suppose. I am very very happy with the tray and canopy option mate. For the kind of trips I do, it is a great balance. Only things outstanding are Plumbed in water, full kitchen unit and awning. Then, it would be the perfect setup for individual usage on longer trips
Seen these used so much in Australia and glad they arriving here in SA. Any chance of a vid for the process for getting an upgrade GVW certificate and how you advised insurance company of all the changes you made - increase in vehicle insurance ? Where do we stand with additional lights on the roof rack and keeping within the law for various neighbouring countries - any excuse for a fine ! Have you had encountered any issues with the police ?
Hi Gary, thanks for your comment. So, I'm not sure I'll be creating a video on what you're asking for. Whilst it might be interesting I don't think there is a way to legally do a GVM upgrade and the costs will be at my expense. At the moment I'm only over GVM when fully packed up for the longer trips by 58kgs. I use tiff stuff for insurance and have everything insured as additions to the ranger both locally and internationally. As far as roof lights, I was advised by Nelius from 4x4megaworld strijdom park that as long as you have covers on and don't use them on the tar roads, they are legally, in SA, classed as offroad 4X4 lights and are legal. All my added spots have solid black covers on and are only used out in the Bush. However, in Namibia I believe I will have to remove them, all of them, as they have a different set of laws. I haven't encountered any issues with police yet, but allot of interest. Hope to continue to survive the gauntlet of thirsty coppers. Hope this helps
Looking good Mr! Glad somebody has actually gone Lithium. You have effectively doubled your solar panels efficiency and doubled your storage capacity by using Lithium, initial capital outlay is heavy, but it pays off in the long run. Question, I see that you have only gone for the 75/15 MPPT. I would think with the type of travel you would have more than 220W solar panels? Was physical size a issue? Have you considered using a CerboGX or a Raspberry Pi to combine the stats as well as do GPS monitoring (Ringfence and tracking)? I am no way affiliated with Victron, just a fan. Give me a shout if you keen to talk more about their kit. I am based in Pretoria :)
Hi Davin, thank you for your detailed response. Look, this was pretty much I could afford. The larger MPPT is something I'd like to get, but costs have put me in a pinch. I use the 240W solar panels, but find that I jave yo run another set of 150W solar panel to get a 250W charge. Think the MPPT might have something to do with it? The lithium is great, but a second one is definitely needed. Overcast days can make one worry about consumptions, but very very happy with the rate at which it charges. Phenomenal. I decided Victron, because of all the good things I've heard. TBH my knowledge on electrical systems is only starting to grow, so by no means do I understand the consideration on the above stuff you mentioned. Very interested in what you are saying with regards to CerboGX etc. I think reliability and warranty on products as well as good standing in the industry is what made us prioritise the victron products. At this stage budgets have been diverted to getting out there this year. I would like to up my inverter capacity to much bigger for future requirements, maybe a single top convection stove or something like that. We'll see how it goes. At this stage the units are solid, I've done a few trips and am very happy with integration and how everything works. Thanks again, and always keen to have a chat and learn mate. Thanks again, and let me know if you'd like to chat.
Hi Alexander, National Luna make great products. I went Victron because it was something I preferred from when I started doing trips. Standing in the industry, the build quality, the look, and the individual components and how they all work seamlessly together. Integrated. It's not that one is better than the other, it just came down to what I wanted to do. Either way, your setup will be great.
When i was doing my research a year ago I found Victorn is used by Ambulance services by City of Paris and London and most of the cruise ships are fitted with Victron products so I went with victron. Best products with reliability, worldwide availability of parts and support.
Hi Carlos, that's fantastic. It is a great unit that's for sure. I have no ideas yet. I'd need sponsorship or help to do mine. Have a couple of ideas. What is your plans?
@@4x4ventures_southafrica My original plan was to put it on the Tray floor, and it's already installed (Stainless steel, 120L), but it's not strong enough. leaked on a 4x4 trail. I now plan to install in the chassis. But maybe only 40L.
Yeh, so 100Ltrs will also have a massive affect on the vehicles ride safety when on the floor. I know of an LC 79 that had this done, and subsequently removed it. I think 50Ltrs under the tray, mounted to the chassis is the way to go. Baffles however will play an important design roll to your tank. I am thinking of putting a 50ltr water tank behind the back seat from Frontrunner, and maybe a pump. Or, a tank under neath the tray. Let me know if you come right. Who will be doing it for you? Are you locally based?
@@4x4ventures_southafrica Yes, I'm based in Sandton, Johannesburg. I also found a lot of companies to do different things, I even designed the accessories myself. I did putting the water tank under the tray, but it only 40L. I'm going to add one for 100L in side the Tray, i still busy on it. If you are interested I can share some of my pictures with you.
Hi Wiets. Yes it is very costly upgrade. Maybe one you don't need to do. As for what I do, and the support that I am humbled by, it makes sense to put South African brands in the competitive arena. You close on your estimation mate 🤟
Placing a flat broad platform just above the fridge,will that not give you a nice space for cameras and clothes ? dont paint the canopy with a matching colour as the cabin,it stands out distinctly stark n diffrent in a unique way.
Thanks for your input mate, and absolutely agree. The amazing thing with a tray and canopy is the amount of space that's open, that can be used to preference. I'll get there of budgets allow. Yuuup, no painting happening mate. I think it looks GREAT
In this episode we drive into *_4x4 Megaworld Strijdom park_* and begin the process of kitting the *SMARTCAP* _Smart Tray and Canopy_ out, from RSi. Thank you to everyone involved in helping with this massive undertaking.
Awesome Episode mate! What a tray and canopy combo, great camera work as well!
Thank you Ed. Awesome camera work bud, and appreciate your help legend. Nxai Pans on calling, CANT WAIT
Bliksem!!! Insane!! Epic Setup!! 🤙🏼🤙🏼
Getting there, and loving it . . .
Great set-up 👍 Excellent vid again 😎
Awesome Alan. Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for your support 👍
Fantastic rig Ryan, and thanks for another great video with quality content. If I may quote Chris now: “Get out there.” 👌🏻😁🤙🏻
Great material bro, good job! Ur staff is amazing.
Thank you Rafal. Much appreciated mate 👍
Very nice setup!
I also invested in a complete Victron and LifEpo4 Battery setup a month ago ~ Makes a *HUGE* difference!! Smiles all round!
Thank you for sharing
Thank you, and glad you enjoyed this one. Yes, it's amazing when you get great confidence in your electrical setup. Huge difference and still smiling. Allot of money spent, but we'll worth it IMO
Ryan what a setup love the setup you are ready to go bush again man out of this world
Thank you Shaun, ready to go, now I just need some help with trip costs 🤣 will get there mate, hopefully sooner than later legend 🤟
The canopy and tray combo is looking awesome Ryan! Hopefully the 'Aus" influences would come in more and more to SA and become more accessible.
With your table needs, I'd just add in a top layer to your slide out tray at the back that's dead space at the moment and utilise that as a slide out table.
Hi Carel, good to hear from you bud. It will happen, but import costs are a real deterrent to get Aus products into SA. I think SA fabricators will start making similar systems, but, costs are very high and maybe the SA market isn't ready to make the full commitment to doing upgrades like this. Time will tell, all I can say is that it is a very welcome upgrade. Really changes the way one will overland. Yes, was thinking something similar regarding the slide out table. My brain is working it out, and kind of have 2 options to go at this stage. Whatever we end up doing, it will look sick mate 👌
Awesome upgrades, can't wait to see your next adventure with the guys!
Absolutely, think it turned out mint. Episodes are in the works. See you at the next one 🤟
👏👏👏 impressive
Thanks Deresh 🤙
Amazing vid, good to see what goes on behind the scenes on a built! The Ranger is a real Overland beast!
Thank you Chris. Allot of work mate, and a solid performance from the team. Almost beast, a few more additions and then overlanding will be allot more efficient
This is a solid addition and investment. Look forward to seeing how it pans out on your next extended road trip... truth will defo be in the pudding. Like!
Absolutely, now to get it put there and put it through its paces. Looking forward to the journey and showing you how it holds up mate
hi, loce your videos mate, i am south african living in the middle east and would love to come back to do some overlanding, you have remotivated me to come back to my beautiful country
100% and a great reason indeed to come back. Southern Africa is a special place mate. I’ll see you out there 🤙
Wow! What a rig it has become! Love the upgrades, it looks amazing
Thank you Brett. Always great to look back at the vehicle when parked up. We have come a long way. Really a great feeling. Keep well mate, and thanks for your support
This guy!!!! 🙆🏾 after watching so many of your episodes and wishing that one day I will be able to get an offroad trailer and enjoy life you. I bought the trailer last week then boom, you sold yours
🤣🤣 so sorry mate. Costs were high and trying to run as full time RUclipsr we had to sell. Don't worry bud, your off road trailer will serve you well 👍 thanks for your support mate
Well done Ryan!! The ranger and your new setup look incredible. I am sure you will tweak and change as you get to learn what works and what doesn't. Kudos for thinking and going BIG. Seems like the adventure has only just begun. Looking forward to following the journey.
Thank you Charl, and yes, a massive leap forward I reckon. Can't wait to take you on the journey and how it all works out there. Much appreciated legend 🤟
Awesome episode
Hey Regan, thanks legend for your support bud. Castle lites went down a treat. See you at the next one bud 🍻
Great episode mate, the journey has been amazing. I remember when this was just a stock ranger. I can see more and more excited adventures coming
The journey is always amazing, and what an awesome thing to have you guys on the adventure. She has definitely come a long way mate. Almost done, but first, some trips
Well done Ryan. Enjoyed this one!
Thank you Henk
Great episode of a great rig. Bravo!
Thank you mate 🤙
Excellent set up Ryan:D The false floor with storage looks perfect!! An extra table at the back as a lid to the slide out would work. Cheers mate
Thank you Vik. Let's see how it goes. At this stage content to test. Planning next trip as I jave itchy itchy feet. Hope the rain doesn't dissappear.
I suggest you put your recovery kit, fuel filter, belts and car parts and car liquids on the long back drawer at the back of your rig, well done on your build.
DUDE!! this is awesome! It looks super, I have no words!! Congrats on the great setup!!
Much appreciated and glad you enjoyed this one. Almost there mate 🙌
Looking forward to see this in action!
All to come mate. We've done a few trips already and can't wait to show you
Love it. It is one of the first mods I would like to do to my Hilux. Just makes so much sense.
100% mate, can't wait to show you how it goes out there. Thanks bud
Great video Ryan! loving the new intro.
Thank you Jordan. Also enjoying the new intro. Seems to be received well. Hoping it gets better with all the insane shots I've got
Love the new canopy but that fridge, may as well be a meat truck 😁
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Best comment of the episode. Absolutely mate, should maybe start a butchers delivery service. Enjoy legend 🤟
Looking great! Time for the next trip I think... 😉
😂PS. Nice camera work Ed
100% mate, time for the next adventure 👍
Nice canopy. Well worked out for your needs. Also looks easy to customise to a person's own need for overlanding. For a single person straight forward. Little more complicated when the family camps with you without the trailer or caravan hooked on. Let us see a video with the family traveling with please Ryan 👍
Thanks Innes. Yes, it will definitely be a bit more complicated with a family trip. I'm hoping with the ability to pack on top of the floor I'll have space. My better half likes to carry everything, including the kitchen sink 🤣 As for another family trip, have to try and get water Plumbed in before that happens. Maybe when I'm able to meet the needs and wants of my tribe, then we'll go in the Bush. That would be next level mate
@@4x4ventures_southafrica love your you tube channel when you travel with Edward and Christo. Guys are organised. Need to sae mkre places from you so we can overland and explore. Maybe have another meet and greet weekend so we can join in the future 👍🏻
An Amazing Business Opportunity that can be expanded all over Africa for custom-designed vehicles for camping and safaris.
Not a bad idea 😉
Looks great a big project. Alu cab have released a fridge slide specific for the arb zero 96l looks lighter as well.
Thanks mate. Yeh, so when I got this fridge Alu cab was in RnD on their fridge slide. A pity because trying to save weight it would have been ideal
Excellent growth in group friendship overlanding you EB and friends , Envy!!!!
Rig excellent!!! your future plans with kitchen sounds like marvellous and contact mikem Daryl for suspension upgrade you won't regret it .
Hi Markus, yes, one of the best, if not the best parts to overlanding is the relationships we've been fortunate to build. Good friends. Thanks mate, at this stage budgets don't allow the suspension upgrades, but if anyone is keen to help, then I'm only too happy for the necessary support. Let's see how it goes mate. She is heavy, but still able to go the extra mile. Loving it
Looks great, but the cost must be hectic for most people. I think that is why we almost no canopies like this here. Good luck.
Yes, costs are high, but, the rewards are invaluable if overlanding is something you are doing. Best move i ever made
Great upgrade Ryan, I think this will be a game changer to you off-roading adventure, I’m sure cameraman is green with envy, haha…. Can you share a full list/ breakdown of the other upgrades particularly the lights and power units? Lastly not sure if it’s covered in a previous episode but what RTT is that?
Thanks, I will be doing a full review of this setup and will mention the list breakdown, and lights. The RTT is a WILDLANDS Desert Cruiser RTT from Jackal Field Equipment. Check out their website for pricing in South Africa. Worth it in my opinion for sure
Another great video in another great series, brilliant!
What was the final weight "Overlandiing ready" or is that still coming up? I'm keen to see if you will meet the vehicles GVM and if not, what are your thoughts on that from a safety\insurance point of view?
Cheers
Will let you know and definitely keep you posted. Haven't done a full weigh in yet. Very very nervous, but will get the education for sure
Looks great, we'll done. However, i think your vehicle is going to be very heavy when fully laden with your kit and supplies and fuel, and 2nd spare wheel and additional battery etc etc
Also consider putting those recovery tracks somewhere else......the day will come when they will be full of mud and its going to make a huge mess in your nice clean canopy. Just a thought.
Good luck with the rest of your mods.
100% Wayne, weight is a problem. I've always been candid with that fact. One of those things we can't escape, especially on longer trips. Once budget allows, maybe I can get the suspension upgrade to help. Would be lekker if support came on board, think it would be a great test. I hear you with regards to the recovery tracks. Was thinking of getting a bag made to prevent dirt and mud from causing a problem. Some great input from you. Really appreciated legend. Lets see how this one goes.
Also, don't think that by putting a strong suspension that it's going to cure your challenges, it just means u are likely to load more weight and making your problem worse. Think soft sand and mud.
Absolutely, will seek council to make the right moves. Air bags could be an option
Put lots of helium in them, it will make your car fly 😀😃🙂
Enjoyed the video and love the canopy. It just seems you have really compromised your tray space by adding the massive fridge. How easy it the going to be getting in and out when it is full?
I suspected two smaller fridges would have been easier.
Also putting day to day things under the floors seems a bit silly as you will have unpack everything on top to get to it? Finally love the kitchen in a try at the back idea. Just might not have much space when both wheels are on. Look forward to the final.
Hi and thanks for your comment.
Great upgrade Ryan ,I can't make up my mind if I want a trailer or a canopy..Why did u choose the canopy?
Thank you Kendrick. I loved my trailer. Had to sell it because we got it for my wife and kids, but they aren't as camping savvy nor was it being used for that purpose. Using a trailer for myself seemed quite excessive, even though perfect, but we had to sell on account of finance. Going RUclips isn't revenue friendly. I've always wanted a tray and canopy, and in SA, to be one of the first to try and test this unit, seemed a no brainer. Subsequent, I've realised that this unit is bang on perfect for my overlanding needs. There are a few more additions I have to make, but, it is just right for right now. Cheaper than a trailer, by a smidgen, and for single use, excellent. I do miss my trailer though. Hope this helps
Thanks so much it helps a lot am also the only one who loves camping so I got my answer now.
Your still soo much lighter than mine!
I’m 3280 completely empty without fuel or water even !
Very slick build and looks the business. Quick question on your thoughts Vs an Alucab canopy camper given you don't need an RTT and can escape the elements inside And access from outside.
Hi Mike, I haven't been able to test the alu cab products so I can't really give you a comparison. I went this route because it is a lighter option, I think. To get out of the elements I would use a 270 awning, which I don't have as yet. The tent on top is a welcome addition. Being able to get into a room, such as the alu cab option would definitely be welcomed, but for different needs and wants I suppose. I am very very happy with the tray and canopy option mate. For the kind of trips I do, it is a great balance. Only things outstanding are Plumbed in water, full kitchen unit and awning. Then, it would be the perfect setup for individual usage on longer trips
@@4x4ventures_southafrica great, look forward to more on the canopy’s
Seen these used so much in Australia and glad they arriving here in SA. Any chance of a vid for the process for getting an upgrade GVW certificate and how you advised insurance company of all the changes you made - increase in vehicle insurance ? Where do we stand with additional lights on the roof rack and keeping within the law for various neighbouring countries - any excuse for a fine ! Have you had encountered any issues with the police ?
Hi Gary, thanks for your comment. So, I'm not sure I'll be creating a video on what you're asking for. Whilst it might be interesting I don't think there is a way to legally do a GVM upgrade and the costs will be at my expense. At the moment I'm only over GVM when fully packed up for the longer trips by 58kgs. I use tiff stuff for insurance and have everything insured as additions to the ranger both locally and internationally. As far as roof lights, I was advised by Nelius from 4x4megaworld strijdom park that as long as you have covers on and don't use them on the tar roads, they are legally, in SA, classed as offroad 4X4 lights and are legal. All my added spots have solid black covers on and are only used out in the Bush. However, in Namibia I believe I will have to remove them, all of them, as they have a different set of laws. I haven't encountered any issues with police yet, but allot of interest. Hope to continue to survive the gauntlet of thirsty coppers. Hope this helps
Looking good Mr! Glad somebody has actually gone Lithium. You have effectively doubled your solar panels efficiency and doubled your storage capacity by using Lithium, initial capital outlay is heavy, but it pays off in the long run. Question, I see that you have only gone for the 75/15 MPPT. I would think with the type of travel you would have more than 220W solar panels? Was physical size a issue? Have you considered using a CerboGX or a Raspberry Pi to combine the stats as well as do GPS monitoring (Ringfence and tracking)? I am no way affiliated with Victron, just a fan. Give me a shout if you keen to talk more about their kit. I am based in Pretoria :)
Hi Davin, thank you for your detailed response. Look, this was pretty much I could afford. The larger MPPT is something I'd like to get, but costs have put me in a pinch. I use the 240W solar panels, but find that I jave yo run another set of 150W solar panel to get a 250W charge. Think the MPPT might have something to do with it? The lithium is great, but a second one is definitely needed. Overcast days can make one worry about consumptions, but very very happy with the rate at which it charges. Phenomenal. I decided Victron, because of all the good things I've heard. TBH my knowledge on electrical systems is only starting to grow, so by no means do I understand the consideration on the above stuff you mentioned. Very interested in what you are saying with regards to CerboGX etc. I think reliability and warranty on products as well as good standing in the industry is what made us prioritise the victron products. At this stage budgets have been diverted to getting out there this year. I would like to up my inverter capacity to much bigger for future requirements, maybe a single top convection stove or something like that. We'll see how it goes. At this stage the units are solid, I've done a few trips and am very happy with integration and how everything works. Thanks again, and always keen to have a chat and learn mate. Thanks again, and let me know if you'd like to chat.
Hi Ryan. Why did you go victron over national luna?
Hi Alexander, National Luna make great products. I went Victron because it was something I preferred from when I started doing trips. Standing in the industry, the build quality, the look, and the individual components and how they all work seamlessly together. Integrated. It's not that one is better than the other, it just came down to what I wanted to do. Either way, your setup will be great.
When i was doing my research a year ago I found Victorn is used by Ambulance services by City of Paris and London and most of the cruise ships are fitted with Victron products so I went with victron. Best products with reliability, worldwide availability of parts and support.
I’m also doing smartcap tray in Johannesburg, I have similar setup like yours. how do you going to do your water tank?
Hi Carlos, that's fantastic. It is a great unit that's for sure. I have no ideas yet. I'd need sponsorship or help to do mine. Have a couple of ideas. What is your plans?
@@4x4ventures_southafrica My original plan was to put it on the Tray floor, and it's already installed (Stainless steel, 120L), but it's not strong enough. leaked on a 4x4 trail. I now plan to install in the chassis. But maybe only 40L.
Yeh, so 100Ltrs will also have a massive affect on the vehicles ride safety when on the floor. I know of an LC 79 that had this done, and subsequently removed it. I think 50Ltrs under the tray, mounted to the chassis is the way to go. Baffles however will play an important design roll to your tank. I am thinking of putting a 50ltr water tank behind the back seat from Frontrunner, and maybe a pump. Or, a tank under neath the tray. Let me know if you come right. Who will be doing it for you? Are you locally based?
@@4x4ventures_southafrica Yes, I'm based in Sandton, Johannesburg. I also found a lot of companies to do different things, I even designed the accessories myself. I did putting the water tank under the tray, but it only 40L. I'm going to add one for 100L in side the Tray, i still busy on it. If you are interested I can share some of my pictures with you.
Awesome. Yes, please share. Email me at ryananimation@gmail.com and we can take it from there
Hi Ryan, with truck running just about or more than max mass limit, did you or are you going to do any engine uprade as well?
Hi Amdré I've already done an episode on that. Performance upgrades. Please explore the channel
One thing I didn't see is the safety/security aspect of things, won't people be able to open it and steal the batteries and other stuff??
It has manual locks at the handles
Only thing we need now is the price as it stands there easy 150k
Hi Wiets. Yes it is very costly upgrade. Maybe one you don't need to do. As for what I do, and the support that I am humbled by, it makes sense to put South African brands in the competitive arena. You close on your estimation mate 🤟
It looks good would love something like that.
Placing a flat broad platform just above the fridge,will that not give you a nice space for cameras and clothes ? dont paint the canopy with a matching colour as the cabin,it stands out distinctly stark n diffrent in a unique way.
Thanks for your input mate, and absolutely agree. The amazing thing with a tray and canopy is the amount of space that's open, that can be used to preference. I'll get there of budgets allow. Yuuup, no painting happening mate. I think it looks GREAT