My name is jeff, and 4 associates and I are putting together a 3 year expedition from the top of Alaska to the southernmost tip of Argentina. 2 guys will be riding bicycles, I will be filming a tv show, 2 others will be conducting research, and together we will be filming 3 documentaries along the way about the needs of humanity and the environment in Latin and South America. I'm here because we need the perfect expedition vehicle.
We need ample space for 3-4 people, film equipment, expedition gear, bikes, batteries, and 2 irish wolfhounds. As many of you know, some roads through South America will require rugged 4x4 capabilities. In addition, with the threat of armed radicals, theives, and corrupt policia, we would like the vehicle to be armored.
Any advice and assistance is most appreciated. Thank you.
Ok, we're thinking pretty affirmatively of a compromise between all of the above. We're thinking of going with 2 vehicles for safety: 2 toyota 08 tundras, crew cab, short bed(because you can't get a longer bed with the crew cab), camper shell, and just fixing them up a little to work, ie, roof rack, bumpers, lifts, winches, aquatic setup for the rainy season, and wheels. What do you guys think?
Oh no, not another "expedition" coming through here. Our humanity and environment issues have already been covered...extensively.
BTW, I've yet to meet an "armed radical" up here, uh... Guess you were relating to just S. America then, eh?
Those wolf hounds better be riding in your vehicle 'cause the wolfs up here haven't been super friendly towards dogs this year. So far their owners have escaped...
Maybe you boys need to do a little more research and rethinking, heck if you really want to know the issues you can all ride bicycles and tent along the way.
Gee thanks, I guess a Mog is environmental friendly then, eh?
Vehicle: 1984 300GD "G" Wagen, and 1998 Steyr Puch 290GD "G" Van & a 1988 MB Trac 1000
Location: Co Antrim, Norn Ireland
Posts: 693
Aluminar
THANK YOU
My views expressed better than I could
F------ Wankers
It's the same as holding a pop concert to save the environment
F-----g wankers
What good would an 'armoured vehicle' be against 'armed radicals' anyway??? If they want to shoot you, you're gonna get shot. What were you planning to do - sit in the truck until they just get bored and go home...?!
You're flipping between some BIG Unimogs and a pair of toyotas with plastic camper bodies (armour...?! - make up your mind!), and you ask what we think? I think you need to do a lot more reading and research!
If you go with the Toys or similar, don't just list crap from a catalogue that makes it look more 'offroad'. Your main enemy on a trip like that will be longevity of parts (suspension etc), and thats going to plummet as you add weight, so keep it as light as you can.
Ok, we're thinking pretty affirmatively of a compromise between all of the above. We're thinking of going with 2 vehicles for safety: 2 toyota 08 tundras, crew cab, short bed(because you can't get a longer bed with the crew cab), camper shell, and just fixing them up a little to work, ie, roof rack, bumpers, lifts, winches, aquatic setup for the rainy season, and wheels. What do you guys think?
Jlit,
I think referencing Toyota Tundra's may have put off a few of the Mog owners here...
I agree that you will need something much more stout than a 1/2 ton pickup for your 3 year trip. Do some research on expedition vehicles on the net. If properly maintained, you could probably leave a Unimog running for three years with no problems. Since your vehicles would be your life lines, a heavy investment into these should be in your plans.
You can always sell the expedition trucks to another 'adventurer' when you are done!
I think a Wankermatic 2.0 is what is needed for this group:
"Mr. Ramsey. Listen carefully! We are a group of individuals that represent a small foreign faction. We respect your business but not the country that it serves. . . . "
Howdy Jlit,
I think, if you're serious about this, you need to look at 2 different vehicles. One could be the fuel sucking Dumbdra and then use something like a Mog or Fuso for actually packing your gear. One vehicle might be cramped for 4 adults and gear unless you're really close and have a deep appreciation for each other. The (Expedition Portal Forums) might also be a nice site to check out. If you really want the Dumbdras then look closely at your weight. Good luck and let us know what your plans are.
Although with two "Dumbdras", you would always have a spare parts vehicle and hopefully you will make it out with one complete truck. No offense, I just think dumbras comment was funny.
Last edited by endo911rs : 04-18-2008 at 07:31 AM.