HIACE 4x4 Off-Road FIRST IMPRESSIONS and PROJECT AIMS

[@joshhenchman9810]

Honestly, I wouldn’t worry about getting rid of the Troopy. This thing will look tough as heck with some off-road accessories, a paint job/ wrap and some different wheels/ tyres. Tired of seeing 70 series content all over KZbin (you were one of the originals and did it justice so you are forgiven) but I feel like this build, if done tastefully, will bring a far bigger and more enthusiastic audience than what you already have from Landcruiser content. A 4x4 bus is so refreshing to see and will undoubtedly be the envy on many 4x4 and travel enthusiasts. This WILL be the car you turn around and admire at your camp sites. Imaging the Ronny Dahl episode in the future on it too!

[@jaygatsby2790]

AGREE!

[@davidmilledge221]

If done correctly it's a massive game changer

[@cryptidhunter9901]

Real overlanders on a tight budget, often use old 4WD vans. This brand new troopy build thing is mostly done by wealthy secret society youtubers with lots of corporate connections.

[@drew5763]

Vans have always been noisy but kitted out should fix that

[@Alan.livingston]

And it’s not like he won’t get bored of this in a week once it’s done and sell it to start another troopy.

[@heathwellsNZ]

Wow, this ongoing project will be undoubtedly the best offroading/overlanding content on KZbin this year! Very very excited to follow along your journey!

[@erhardt1477]

So … to sum things up… Andrew : „I’m not doing a direct comparison, driving first the van and then the troopy“ Heiner : „Andrew is driving the same piece of road to do a direct comparison, between the van and the troopy“ Thx guys for clearing that up 😂😂😂 The van looks amazing, can’t wait to see the progress sir 👍

[@johnvaneeden1455]

This will change the Taxi industry in South Africa for ever !

[@StuFrodsham]

Nah SA taxi's go anywhere already !

[@NathanDuP]

You won't be able to keep it in SA, will be stolen as soon as it's in your driveway and the insurance on it will be grossly over priced because of its steal-ability and use of parts in the taxi industry.

[@lazy-rabbitz]

Previous generation of hiace came in 4wd, though

[@robvanzyl5017]

Lesotho have a lot of 4x4 taxi's for many years. Just getting on with the job and putting overlanders to shame.

[@samartz]

Yoohoo

[@johnlee4681]

Screw all the negative comments, I was excited for this when you announced it, just the same now!

[@MrCheh]

Once you throw some gear in it and give it some weight in the rear it will be substantially better and have less rear wheel spin on the simple stuff. Articulation will also feel better.

[@Jacobtheunwise]

My thought to considering the 2wds are way better with weight in them in every aspect I can imagine this would be the same case

[@oggyoggy1299]

@@Jacobtheunwise In every aspect….besides acceleration, braking, cornering, fuel efficiency.

[@okaadventures3446]

Our OKA motorhome is running a 48v system, combined with a Victron RS 6000 Multi with 12Kw of stored energy & all electrical appliances are 240v. Cost savings in cable size & weight plus the cost savings of appliances over 12v. Very excited to see this project proceeding, great work guys.

[@derJackistweg]

but you will still loose roughly 15% by DC>AC, all day long. And again a part of that when charging AC>DC, like Phones, Cam, PC ect.

[@kopeducati]

@@derJackistweg 12Kw battery bank will take you a loooong way ... ( depending on solar array )

[@derJackistweg]

@@kopeducati ?

[@kopeducati]

@@derJackistweg yep .. ?

[@derJackistweg]

What are you talking about? I am talking about the bad efficiency of transforming AC into DC. Looks like you do nothing about that, go ahead and learn. Has nothing to do with the size of the battery as 15% is 15%, weather on 12KW or 3KW, or or or or

[@mildew4449]

Full salivation mode ON!!! As more of a van guy myself (vanlifer for over 15 years), this is gonna rock! This will totally do it out in the bush, no doubt about it. A pity we can't get anything similar in my side of the woods. Can't wait to see this epic build! Send it guys!!!

[@cch201992]

I'm new to van life and bruh what has the overland community been doing a van is the perfect overlander🤷🏼‍♂️lol Change my mind😅

[@2UZFE]

Love a new unknown Andrew, so many questions and trials to do. I look forward to watching this build with much interest.👍🍻

[@Wanderhirsch]

4 person 4 sleeper is what i am looking forward to see 😃 love the collab!

[@stephenfox8922]

The camaraderie between you two is a joy to watch it’s going to be a epic build.

[@AlxLaw141]

Love this project. New benchmark for the overlanding.

[@TheWrongBrother]

In East Africa, hiaces do bus taxi services ferrying 12 passengers ... this is a load of at least 600kg - 800kg constant doing 300km daily. Its normal to see them hit 800,000 km on the odo. This is a great choice and is basically bullet proof stock ... and with those powertrain updates should last decades.

[@АлексейФадеев-у2д]

В России , в Якутии очень популярны Hiace , предыдущего поколения(200) .И там они перевозят много груза и пассажиров , даже без 4 ВД....круглый год и в морозы -60C

[@christopherkimbell3497]

It reminds me of my Sprinter 4x4. Momentum is important, each obstacle and dynamic demands a specific amount with specific timing as you cross the obstacle. It’s actually a fun drive, especially for a seasoned offroad driver. You will go to many wonderful remote places in that van.

[@DavidLeane-cp2lz]

So refreshing to see a driver that lifts there foot when it spins instead of flooring it digging great big holes and wrecking the track for everyone else. I have the extra long high roof version of the hiace. Been living in it for 3 years. I believe it's a better option than towing a caravan. 48 volts sounds interesting and to see how it's done.

[@iamgeoffandthisismystory]

Most exciting build in a looong time! Having Heiner involved brings a fresh dynamic to the channel too😆 Well done! Can't wait to see it on a trip💪🏻

[@myvideoguy]

16:40 this is why I'm considering these. 4 person travel, potential 4 person internal sleeping if required per location, still off-road going, not locked in to pulling a trailer. That's what I'm after. You have a new subscriber based on this.

[@oliverstyant-browne8680]

Very excited to see how the van evolves. This is the most interested I have been in a series for some time. Can’t wait!

[@taurota1554]

Like the variety of content on the channel.Thanks for sharing and taking us along

[@petermcguinness8222]

I can't wait. Hurry up and build it immediately please.

[@andrewhall4553]

Power line track and Pea gravel the perfect testing combo and all in your back yard!!!

[@JasonWh]

As I posted before, you taught me to drive in sand over the years. I know I mentioned I bought a fully configured PowerWagon and replaced the suspension with all King racing suspension, a goFastCamper and a TON more. I just bought another project, a '24 Subaru Outback Wilderness where I'll be lifting it 3 inches, installing coilovers with reservoirs, rear locker, 33's, full underbody protection and more! I will say the outback is really capable in sand from factory. Looking forward to the fun of a Subaru with lockers!

[@salahuddinkhan7694]

This VAN 4x4 has the ability to overcome almost all aspects of an actual overlanding vehicle,,,very good experiment and keep it up 🎉🎉🎉

[@tiakontikiadventures1536]

Genuinely Impressed with the ground clearance seen on the Hiace. I have a 4motion VW Transporter SWB camper conversion for x4 (Pop top), and even with the 35mm lift, I still find cautious driving is the way to go. Looking foward to the future vlogs!

[@johndunn5767]

I’m so excited for this new build. I think it’s going to be a game changer for the overland community in Australia. Great job fellas 👍

[@djevlhelvete]

I am just so happy I found this channel right at this moment in time...That's a fantastic project!

[@alastairsedgwick9333]

As someone who lived in a Hiace Commuter (100 series) full time, now full time in a Pajero with a James Baroud RTT. The comfort and convenience levels are not the same, especially in the rain. This project I'll be following with great interest

[@peterofnewcastle6602]

Why did you not have BUS4x4 install their underbody protection kit? It provides great shielding both under the engine and under the running gear. I have taken my Hiace 4x4 to the top of Cape York as well as Fraser Island and many other offroad adventures. The van performs better off road once it is loaded with a camper fitout. As usual, running the tallest tyres possible and adjusting tyre pressures assist greatly when offroad. Sadly the wheel travel is about the same as a commodore.

[@Ben198809]

Super excited for this build - please keep the updates coming Andrew, no matter how small. Especially keen for Heiner's 48V plans, so awesome seeing new ideas come to life

[@Belldin_Ordi]

I am looking forward to see the outcome of this project as I have been thinking of a van to tour around Oz with the Mrs in a few years time.

[@jurgenkrebbekx4329]

Epic already,you two are so much fun to watch,I’m so looking forward to this build with you both, so much knowledge and the willingness to experiment and seeing no limits,fantastic ‼️

[@matthewlewis-zw3tf]

I like your new van! Love the 2.8L Turbo Diesel. Just bought a 2.8L Turbo Diesel for a project Nissan 4 door Frontier 4x4, with 5spd manual gearbox and 2 spd transfer case. Will put 35 inch tires on it and a 4 inch lift. I'm very excited.

[@fvandeventer]

rear wheels spinning even with differential locked - could this be due to the lack of weight in the rear? I think when you guys have added your accessories to the vehicle that there will be far more grip in the rear.

[@4xoverland]

Actually. it was because the front axle cage had hit a huge rock.

[@jetnavigator]

​@@4xoverlandwhy not mention that in the video? It made the van look incapable...

[@LockyourHubs4WDing]

That's what I thought as well, it badly needs more weight up front and a front locker.

[@rolandsharp]

@@jetnavigator it was incapable. It hit the rock because of low clearance

[@MacSaxe]

You've basically built a forward control troopy - love it

[@angusmurray6578]

As a new dad those 4X4 adventures and long term travel options do really change! You can't really do it in a wagon anymore for longer trips. Looking forward to this series. I am hoping this type of vehicle goes relatively remote...super interesting!

[@eliwgreen]

Have known about the 4x4 bus conversion for some time. There are a few driving around Karratha where I live and I have always wondered what the possibility’s would be making one into a touring vehicle, I have many of the same questions. Can’t wait to follow this build. This project will be incredibly interesting. Hopefully in the future Toyota could do this from factory 🤷‍♂️ without sacrificing the troopy of course.

[@motoface5984]

So excited to watch the rest of this series as I’m really leaning towards a HiAce conversion

[@QLDPATTERSON]

I am so very keen to see how you do the 48v setup

[@andrewjones-productions]

Yes. Me too. I am not electrically minded AT ALL, but I am very interested in seeing what solutions and challenges 48v brings.

[@equestrianalways6132]

My delica 4x4 would struggle for traction when empty. But when weight is added over the rear axle it becomes 4 x more capable

[@АлексейФадеев-у2д]

Нету лучше велика (велосипед) , чем Митсубиси Делика😂

[@chrisbainrot5731]

Hi Andrew, just watching now, have you queried with Bus 4x4 about front difflock yet?.

[@CoolTechUS]

Can't wait to see it after repainting with adventure/safari colours and offroad bullbar.

[@davidhammond5264]

I have been considering a Hiace 4x4 for myself so it is great to see Andrew testing it out for me. Sliding doors on a van are so practical in town.

[@roy_geebz]

Cant wait to see how it goes with 2 tonnes of 48volt wizardry in the back 👌 very cool project team.

[@ahmetsokullu1866]

This is the most exciting project after the Range Rover. Please don't hold back with the van. Here in the UK that van needs no improvement to off roading but huge innovation to sleep 4. You may have just answered the question for a family traveller. I am excited. Thank you.

[@adolfnkuna682]

Andrew, now this projects highlights your expertise in overlanding and challenges, I would be delighted to be the first in SADC to rent out this vehicles when you finally conclude this project.woww

[@petrilabuschagne]

Looking forward to this build. Will definitely follow this.

[@kromey111]

I’m sure you said it didn’t have traction control yet Heiner said it did ? As he turned it off when he jumped in

[@ulrichkristensen4087]

Looking forward to the build, interesting choice. When you presented the Iveco 4x4 i thought maybe that would be a future choice, but i understand your quarrels with getting in and out , this is going to be fun watching.

[@AccFinEco]

Best 4WD review l have seen in years. Well done. Wish there were more reviews like this.

[@BenardDavisK]

Awesome stuff...I saw the 4x4 bus van and thought that it would make an excellent van for doing a 4x4 road trip with a family of 6....they even had a Granvia

[@enricio]

It's joyful to watch, not just the Troopy compared to the Hiace, but also the two of you. You guys could be father and son. 😁. Of course it's no honest compare but who cares. You guys will have a blast with the Hiace. 😎👏🏻👌🤸

[@Denankempy]

I will comment on every hiace build video! And say the same thing Andrew is the leading the overlanding and 4x4 KZbin scene other channels need to realise getting a bunch of sponsors to give you free gear to bolt is not a build series! Andrew is the expert/goat when it comes actual purpose built 4 wheel driving! 🔥🙌🏽

[@Cous1nJack]

He got these chassis and drivetrain upgrades given to ‘bolt on’. The videos are interesting but he’s not making anything beyond adding existing market products.

[@robynetracy1440]

@@Cous1nJack you are wrong about Andrew’s builds not adding to the existing market. Even with the Troopy conversions Andrew has been at the forefront of so many modifications that now seem commonplace when so many have copied his ideas. With his venture into the HiAce he will once again have to initiate so many modifications and inspire the market to provide them to us all…obviously you haven’t followed his builds over the years as so many of us have. Strongly recommend you stay the course for some surprises this time.

[@andrewsharman4419]

Loving the content and the collaboration between you two. This will be epic!

[@seanchristie7150]

Fantastic to see something new, can't wait to see the fit out

[@MrC1N3]

Front Swaybar disconects for trails. Weight will help the flex as well. Nice project.

[@robertjohnston3099]

Totally agree! Front sway bar disconnect, estimate touring weight, tune shocks and springs to suit.

[@outdooraussie6355]

I'm keen. Been talking for years about the lack of 4x4 van options in Oz... might be my next upgrade. Can't wait to see it come together... 👍👏

[@chappie143]

I'm very keen to see it with a wrap and a bull bar! That will make a break the look of this Kombi.

[@steverichardson7462]

Hi Andrew... I couldn't help think that when you were chatting with Heiner there was a very strong resemblance to Ernie Wise 😂... No disrespect intended.

[@rajeshramkawal8266]

Rear diff lock is an absolute must , front unit a nice to have . Especially in this configuration to give you best of breed tractability

[@JoshSinnott97]

I'm not sure if the demand is there for it, but a gap in the interior for a dirt bike would be unreal

[@petrbenda3406]

Definitely. I would like to see not only dirt bikes, but also normal bikes, e-bikes and other large things that are too impractical for pickup trucks and SUVs. The need to carry an e-bike (and charge it while on the move) made me to even consider vans for overlanding in the first place.

[@sumsija79]

Agree. Have been looking for something that will carry me, my 2 sons and our toys for a while now!

[@rawnature8148]

Heaps of people use vans as touring vehicles/houses.

[@stephanematis]

Dead on comment.

[@Nick-im3sm]

I'm very interested in seeing where you go with the 48v stuff. I think you'll find it's 100% amazing. I went 48v on my nomad trailer and you couldn't convince me 12v would do anything like this. I run the trailer no different than you'd run stuff in your own home. It's that good. You get to a point where you just don't even think about overloading anything since the limit is ridiculously high. As was stated, 4x the volts, means instead of my 4Kw+ inverter running at well over 300a and needing massive cables the thickness of my wrist plus the fuses needed for such a thing, I instead have the same cabling you'd use with a 1Kw inverter in a conventional 12v setup and I can run any normal appliance you'd find in a typical home. I went pretty light too inverter wise. I sized appropriate for the need of build and it's perfect. Plus! I can run a 48v DC heat pump/AC while in camp that is very efficient. Can't easily do that on 12v!

[@grannieannie1371]

This has always been my dream. I came across the ibus conversions and thought yes this could be supercool for a proper off road camper. It will be cool to see how their version of the dream compares to mine.

[@garethbaker6405]

Awesome project,….nice to see something diff’ than a standard 4x4 conversation. looking at a camper van build of our own, hope to get some new ideas and innovations,👍🏼

[@principal7819]

I’m more excited about this build than anything else since I saw your first Australia troops build. If this ends up being what we expect it to be, that’s what I’m going to buy.

[@ianmoore4327]

Can you get a front locker for it? Would larger tyres fit with some minor body trimming or would you need to undertake major operation?

[@ianweal3081]

If you watched the build, previous video, they front diff is from a 200, so obviously a front locker is available but obviously aftermarket, Toyota haven't caught up to GWM Technology yet where dual lockers are a standard feature. Imagine that, Chinese manufacturer of minimal experience out smarting the Toyota manufacturer with years of experience.

[@almostthere2024]

How about getting the rock sliders on quick to save the panel work with that long break over angle? Just a thought..

[@MarkRose1337]

This is an exciting project!

[@djjames6576]

I like the innovation instead of just doing the same as everyone else

[@lukem4728]

Really cool vehicle & concept, looking forward to seeing more 😎

[@rperron3439]

ASPW, I love the channel. I’m catching up on some older series. I do like what you currently have going on for builds currently. Looking forward to the finished products. However, I do have a question: in reference to the hi ace build (4 seat tourer) have ever considered, is it even possible and does anyone is aus do the following: take for instance your 2.8 auto troopy; does anyone in aus do a conversion of a troopy to add a 4 door cab to the front of the troopy? Frame extensions, driveline modifications, chassis extension? That would give you a 4 door troopy, do the rooftop tent as you usually do and possibly have the 4 passenger seats fold flat and with some planning that area could sleep the other two travelers? Two up in rooftop tent, two down in the seat area turned into a bed? This would lengthen the troopy yes. My question is: is this conversion even an option? Best to you on all upcoming adventures. 🤙🏻🇺🇸🫡

[@Harleyglide03]

This is going to be an interesting build. Can’t wait to see it.

[@32laurens]

Looking at it off road I just got a vision of you guys delivering packages to the most outrageous places! I think you should name this build 'Postman Pat' as a bit of a tongue in cheek reference to the humble origins of what I have no doubt is going to be an awesome build! I remember you briefly testing out an Iveco a few years ago, I would be interested why you haven't even mentioned Iveco in this van story so far. You probably considered and rejected the idea but I would appreciate some reasoning behind it. All the best!

[@adamhaslehurst]

Gotta remember the van is just an empty box, the troopy is much heavier so that will actually assist in traction on these bits, I’m sure both cars have 40psi in them straight off the road too. Think of it like taking an old Sierra with nothing in it compared to a 200 series, Sierra will bounce everywhere and scrabble around, the 200s weight will assist it in maintaining traction. Interesting to see how it’ll go when it’s fitted out and 25psi in these sections. Very promising start though! Maybe a few bright leds in the cluster surround to indicate 4x4 and the locks rather than the switches?

[@martintokau7326]

Great video guys was talking about this a hiace camper that was also off road capable also very well interested to see how this project turns out. Keep up the good work.

[@finchtoob]

The Hiace is pretty cool, and definitely worth doing for your purposes as a bit of an experiment. The thing that I just can't get past though is that you're looking at around $15-20k more than a troopy, for a less capable vehicle. I have to say I would choose the troopy, hands down

[@jayd3931]

Less capable off road but much more comfortable on road. Plus, as he said, the Troopy is only good for 1-2 people.

[@steinmargunnarsson3709]

Very intersting vehicle and the conversion to an overlander will be exciting to watch. I belive the suspension, if kept as is, will articulate more as the van gets heavier.

[@paulwatson2569]

I always loved the idea of a van as a overland vehicle Once you add some accessories and sort a few things out it will be a great vehicle I am seriously thinking about this for myself Love it

[@lexsalvador2337]

good job from the Philippines 🇵🇭 lots of potential and fun 😉

[@hoodyr6799]

Loving that 48V direction Heiner...! 👌

[@aussievaliant4949]

Very exciting for sure! I look forward to each episode, but you have upped the ante in my anticipation.

[@gladicus_]

I would love to see this thing vs an older 4x4 Delica. They're very popular with backpackers

[@yokumato]

Looking forward to the next episodes

[@sizzlnm3]

I can't wait to see what you're going to do with the roof of the Hiace. I have a 1993 4x4 Mitsubishi Delica van with the rare Reimo pop top - this Hiace should be a pretty solid modern 4x4 van platform! I wish we got the newer Hiace in the USA. I guess I'll have to wait another 25 years with the 25 year import rule we have in the US!

[@cunawarit]

Not having indicators for the 4 wheel drive system is something that I hadn't thought about. That will take some getting used to. I'm just so used to seeing them on the dash and getting reasurance from that. Looks wise it is amazing! I really like it looks wise, I can't wait to see it in a different colour. And in some ways this is cooler than the Troopy, don't get me wrong the Troopy is legendary and hugely capable, but we have seen them before. A 4x4r HiAce is unusual!

[@nigelmorgan3449]

I recon this will make a great 4x4 plenty of room in the back for a bed and comfy chair to sit back and watch TV The spare wheel underneath that’s out build a carrier on the back yes it looks fantastic

[@rubiconned]

I like this. This is an exciting project

[@Torrox4]

Looking forward to this build 👍At least with a van you can add captains swivel seats in the front maximising your useable space inside 😎👌

[@AussieBlueDog87]

I’ve seen models of this done for mines for years. Quite a few kicking around in qld, even the older snubbed nose ones.

[@CampfireCruising]

Great video, that vantage point as a driver has to be spectacular, more like a UTV than most road vehicles.

[@autoglassmike]

Great series guys looking forward to the build. I have an eseries ford van 4x4 here in USA and love it. I think the hiace is going to be awesome.

[@sasquatchfoote8235]

The Van will be a lot better with more weight in it. Can wait to see👍🏻

[@rcfp2006]

I love 4x4 vans! I'll miss my L400 Delica until my last breath.

[@aaronhowe8249]

Imagine if you disconnected the front sway bar end links, gave it some proper rear springs and shocks, and a longer stroke front strut. The front spindles are beautiful pieces and the package in its entirety as far as running gear is awesome. Nice that it uses Toyota parts wherever possible.

[@philipstrydomstrydom1821]

Great , thinking out the box.

[@mikewesty2864]

Will be interesting to see how the van goes with some weight onboard and lower tire pressures.... loving the build

[@akar2755]

Even if it won't be the main intention, I think it would be nice to see how much additional interest a 4x4 van build will get in your channel, noting how popular van-life content can be.

[@matthewfinnigan3862]

I was looking at one of these in Esperance last year. I would def consider building one over a Troopy for travelling Australia.

[@Ed-wy2di]

Looking forward to this build. Something different for a change.

[@davidlilja9180]

I'm loving your willingness to explore new territories. 45yrs ago I was dreaming of a CFL Holden-Bedford project as a teen. Great for my 6'2" self. The used CFL I ended up buying was not in good enough condition to proceed, and my project stalled. In the last HiAce series I discovered the Commuter virtually matched the CFL's size but more efficiently & with Toyota know how. HiAces are also available ex-Japan as 4wds, but obviously not at the level to meet true off-roading needs. As you've seen the US market focus on even longer/larger 4wd van based projects (of course), why did you select a HiAce LWB and not a SLWB version van as your base, all those seats come out easily enough?

[@4xoverland]

shorter wheelbase will be less of a compromise off road. If its not good off-road, this van project will fail in its objectives.

[@itslev4404]

I bloody love this idea. I look forward to the journey!!