Overland Build questions

[2000m2]

We've done some exploring around Washington state in our mostly stock T4R and it has been plenty capable so far on forest roads and in an offroad park nearby. We'd like to venture further out and for longer periods of time. Trips will likely be me, wife and dog. With this in mind, there are some upgrades I'd like to make our T4R more reliable, comfortable & self-reliant knowing we will be out of mobile phone coverage areas. Hoping to get some feedback and ask a few questions here. I don't expect to be rock crawling or tearing through mud holes, mostly looking to head out along dirt roads throughout the west and, one day, explore further north in to Alaska.

Here is the list of modifications I am looking at:
1. Dual Batteries
2. Roof Top Tent
3. Aftermarket roof rack (likely Frontrunner)
4. Light Bar
5. Extended range fuel tank
6. Compressor
7. Rear air locker
8. Winch w/ hidden mount (likely Bud built w/ light tabs)
9. Freezer/Fridge

Questions:
1. With the accessories, should I install a high output alternator?
2. I've seen ARB has an extended range fuel tank, but they are not easy to source in the USA. Any other manufacturers out there?
3. With ATRAC, is the rear air locker overkill?
4. Dual Batteries - I am most interested in a kit that will let me self-jump start. This looks pretty solid: Kodiak. Any others I should consider?
5. Is an aftermarket roof rack "required" for most roof top tents?
6. Suspension - with the modifications listed above, does it make sense to upgrade to the 2.5" kits from Icon/Radflo/Fox, etc?
7. Skid plates, sliders?

Anything I should add to the list? I'm sure this will evolve as we add stuff and see what works for weekend trips.

Happy New Year!

 

[MSRP.]

Expedition portal
Toyota vehicles
Search 4runner

Shitty but awesome reply, I'm here all day

 

[2000m2]

Expedition portal
Toyota vehicles
Search 4runner

Shitty but awesome reply, I'm here all day

Thanks, I debated whether to post here or there first. I thought the platform specific site might be more helpful, but I'll post there too.
:artist:

 

[daPitbull]

Questions:
1. With the accessories, should I install a high output alternator?
I don't have one. Not convinced it's needed
2. I've seen ARB has an extended range fuel tank, but they are not easy to source in the USA. Any other manufacturers out there?
Check out Man-a-fre. They have one for the FJC
3. With ATRAC, is the rear air locker overkill?
If you re-gear, it would be a good time to do the locker. If not, i don't think it's a priority.
4. Dual Batteries - I am most interested in a kit that will let me self-jump start. This looks pretty solid:
I run a Diehard Platinum Group 31 battery. Largest capacity you can fit. Alternative thought to running duals. Simple solution
5. Is an aftermarket roof rack "required" for most roof top tents?
I know people who have run tents on stock rack. Probably not a long term solution. You'll probably be packing stuff on the roof if you're on multi day outings, so the rack is a must. Check out Prinsu for flat rack option as well.
6. Suspension - with the modifications listed above, does it make sense to upgrade to the 2.5" kits from Icon/Radflo/Fox, etc?
I think so.
7. Skid plates, sliders?
Sliders yes. Skids maybe...depends on terrain you plan on running.

And we plan on running WABDR this summer!

Anything I should add to the list? I'm sure this will evolve as we add stuff and see what works for weekend trips.

Happy New Year![/QUOTE]

 

[swanny]

ARB is local for their US distribution, they are down in Renton. I'd give them a call they might be able to get the tank or help in sourcing it.

 

[KidVermicious]

"Overland" is not code for "I'm leaving pavement but don't want to do hard stuff". Actual overlanding can be plenty hard on vehicles and people alike. From your description, you're looking for a mild offroad build - there's nothing mild about actual overland travel.

And for heading out on dirt roads, you don't need about half that list. Skip the dual batteries, get a jump pack. Skip the locker, I suspect you don't even need ATRAC for what you're doing and if you get in trouble it'll get you out. Skids and sliders are always a good idea, so is a rear bumper because the 4Runner has an abysmal departure angle - put on a swingout with a couple fuel cans and you won't need to worry about an extended range tank. Lights are a good idea, but not an LED bar - HIDs are still better.

Now, what you didn't know you needed - before the winch, you need a Hilift. Traction ladders and an exhaust jack should also be on your list. Plenty of straps and shackles and a bit of chain so you can winch with the Hilift and you'll have all you need to recover yourself and others.

 

[2000m2]

Questions:
I run a Diehard Platinum Group 31 battery. Largest capacity you can fit. Alternative thought to running duals. Simple solution

Thanks for the feedback. Just to confirm... this is the Marine/RV battery?

Now, what you didn't know you needed - before the winch, you need a Hilift. Traction ladders and an exhaust jack should also be on your list. Plenty of straps and shackles and a bit of chain so you can winch with the Hilift and you'll have all you need to recover yourself and others.

Helpful, thanks! I was thinking those MaxxTraxx would be helpful and I forgot about the exhaust jack. I have some tow straps and shackles, but expanding on what we have would be smart.

 

[98WhiteT4R]

Also check out Toyota120.com for more platform specific info

 

[daPitbull]

Thanks for the feedback. Just to confirm... this is the Marine/RV battery?



Helpful, thanks! I was thinking those MaxxTraxx would be helpful and I forgot about the exhaust jack. I have some tow straps and shackles, but expanding on what we have would be smart.

Yes. It's the largest you can fit in the stock location. You may need to lengthen the ground wire though.