We thoroughly researched which Vehicle would be most suitable to go overland. We decided to choose a Toyota Landcruiser over a Land Rover for the following reasons:
• Availability of parts outside Europe
• Reliability
• The Number of other people who have successfully completed the trip in a Landcruiser.
Modifying the Vehicle
We are currently researching and obtaining advice on which modifications would be best for going overland, I.e. Awning, Roof Rack, Suspension, Water Storage, Electric Power etc.
We will be spending the best part of year travelling and living in the Landcruiser and travelling up to 20,000 miles ovelrand, so it’s key to ensure it is mechanically sound, in addition to being comfortable to live in!
The Car:
Landcruiser Colorado 1998 VX
3.0 TD
192,000 miles on the clock
Hi Martin,
I am in the process of planning the trip to Oz and i would be delighted to get your feedback on the prep for the Prado / Colorado.
I have a Toyota Prado 1999 with 140,000 miles on the clock. I have made some modifications already such as rear storage system, BF Goodrich, deep cycle battery with Management system (that can be dodgey at times)and i have completed a shakedown trip in Morocco in December/ January.
If you can kind the time could you answer a few questions?
Where did you source the cheap roof rack on ebay and did you modify it to carry Gerry cans / gas cylinder?
Where did you source the snorkel? the ones for the Prado are proving expensive compared to other vehicles.
Who you get to fit the bridge plate? Is this a welding job?
Thanks and best of luck on the trip! Epic Stuff!!
David
Nice concise report of why and what you chose.I am thinking of the same so intersted. Nigel