Minimalist Overlander: 2016 Ford Expedition

0:21 3.5 Ecoboost Turbo Engine
0:41 Ford Expedition 4 wheeling
0:51 I like a SUV
1:27 Rally Navigator
1:38 Rebelle Rally
2:00 Off roading in the Ford Expedition
2:44 Nitto Terra Grapplers
2:55 2" Spacer lift
3:04 Detroit Truetrac
3:58 Ride and handling
4:21 Manscaping
3:37 Viair Compressor
5:04 Custom roof rack from 775 Fabrication
6:18 Electronics
7:26 Camping gear
8:33 3rd-row seat delete
9:49 Satellite communications
10:22 High Rock Canyon brakedown
11:59 Minimalism in overlanding
13:03 Outdoor Ethics
14:55 Begging for likes
In 1996 Ford killed off the last bronco. The full size, two-door beast we'd loved since the seventies, was gone. It took 24 years for them to bring it back. But in 1997 they launched the Expedition, a full-size, 4 door SUV following on from the wildly popular Explorer and taking the next step in the EX naming convention that would end, and die with the full-size+ Excursion.
The day I first saw an Expedition rolling around Albuquerque, NM when I was In college I saw the potential. A big SUV with 4 doors. No longer dependent on dad to lean his seat forward for me to get out of the back seat. No longer crammed behind the buckets with my sisters and piles of camping gear threatening to fall on our heads. It was a big, powerful, adventure vehicle. And while, I've never owned one, driven one or even ridden one, I've always admired the platform as an adventure vehicle that could go almost anywhere I wanted to go right out of the gate.
Years later, I saw a cool late model Expedition rolling around Reno. Driven by Mike Shirley and emblazoned with the name of his business, Double Diamond Athletic Club, This seemed to be modified, though minimally, and even though it was the latest model with independent suspension front and rear, It sure seemed like a great platform for adventure.
I had the opportunity to finally meet Mike when he called Harry for help recovering it from High Rock Canyon last month. Mike had broken the steering rack in a remote spot, so we went out to help. I finally got the opportunity to meet up with mike and get the full story of this cool expedition.
Suspension & Tires
Mike has installed a simple spacer lift that he found on Amazon. It raises the truck 2 inches and it still rides on the stock springs and shocks.
For tires he went with the biggest tire that would still fit in the spare tire location. This is one thing I really favor over bigger tires. It allows you to keep the interior and exterior of your truck uncluttered and easy to access and also cuts down on added weight of a tire rack or holder. God forbid you put the weight of a tire up on a roof rack! The tires are Nitto Terra Grapplers in size 285/75 R17. This nets out to about a 33 inch final diameter.
Engine
The truck has a 3.5 EcoBoost engine. Mike has upgraded the turbos and Intercooler and also runs a Livewire tuner. It has plenty of power to push around the full size truck and oversized tires.
Read More: allterrainfam.com/
A great Overlander
While the line between overlanding, 4 wheeling and rock crawling seems to be one of hashtags these days, I believe an overlander just needs to be able to get down rough dirt roads with the occasional tricky obstacle, not the Rubicon. As such, getting down endless rough roads with a high level of comfort and safety, which this vehicle provides in spades, is a welcome tradeoff for Mike, and he gets it out for a great many miles in the desert.
Outdoor Ethics
I just wanted to pop in here at the end and talk about outdoor ethics.
It’s getting on spring and camping outdoor season and I know there are a-lot of new folks enjoying outdoor activities. First of all, Welcome! Great to see you on the trail.
So what do I mean by outdoor ethics? Outdoor ethics are a philosophy for how we act in wild places to do the right thing for the landscape, the ecosystems and the humans who live and visit here.
First and easiest thing is pack it in, pack it out. If you produce trash, keep it and if you find trash, do your best to take that with you too.
Easiest way to do this is to have some grocery bags with you. I just have a wad of used grocery bags jammed in somewhere. I also have a couple contractor bags as well in case things get really messy, which happens, or if we come across a mess someone else left for us.
That’s it for now, if you want to learn more about outdoor ethics, check out Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics at lnt.org. What are some outdoor ethics that you think are particularly important?
Happy Trails
-M

[@1Reddd]

In a scene full of Toyotas and Jeeps, I always love seeing something different on the trails. Most other vehicles that would otherwise be really capable with the right mods get overlooked way too often by the ocean of 4Runners and Wranglers that most people seem to look for. These Expeditions, Z71 Tahoes, and trucks alike all get looked past, yes they are big and heavy, but for most casual off roading, they can do most of it with ease... And comfort.

[@HarrySituations]

Love to see vehicles other than Jeeps and Toyotas!

[@OverlandPNW]

Me too and I have a Toyota ha ha !

[@HarrySituations]

@@OverlandPNW I mean I have a Toyota and a Jeep (and a Ford and a Dodge and a Chevy...)

[@OverlandPNW]

Great overlanding platform ! The cargo volume is a big plus !

[@Seekay92]

Very helpfull. Im getting my 2011 ready for a trip from UAE to Russia via mongolia .

[@jeromeburrasca6710]

Yup, full-size SUVs do it all. No: bears, mountain lions, mosquitoes or snakes at 4 a.m. while your sleeping. Lol. :)

[@AmbitionStrikes]

We love Mike's rig. Thanks for sharing!

[@AllTerrainFamily]

I heard you are coming through nor nev. would love to do the same with yours!

[@barrya.6212]

@@AllTerrainFamily I wouldn't run a high-flow (k&n etc) filter out in the dirt... just my 2 cents.... add a catch can and premature oil changes on your eco-boost are highly recommended... ... nice rig...... peace

[@MichaelHigdon1]

OMG I love the storage space you made

[@cjdoig45]

So nice to see another Expedition out on the trails. These things are way more capable you think.

[@jtnord]

not without diffs...

[@cjdoig45]

@@jtnord if you mean gears and locker, yes. Front and rear.

[@oddlyrightoddlyright2475]

No it’s just another ifs vehicle that wasn’t designed to be lifted or run bigger tires

[@AllTerrainFamily]

Bro. No vehicle was designed to be lifted and run bigger tires.

[@oddlyrightoddlyright2475]

@@AllTerrainFamily it’s like the same thing that people tried to do with Subarus spend way to much trying to make cv axles strong enough to go off road instead of just getting a rig with solid axles…..obviously some considerable difference between an f150 or f250 your leaps and bounds ahead of the game starting with solid axles

[@92coupelx]

Really like that roof rack. I have a 17' Expedition that I'm trying to setup overland. Cool vid, thanks for sharing

[@gman0812]

Thank you for posting this!!! I have a 2016 myself and I was so disappointed no one has done this to a Expedition (this model). Now I have hope!! Lol can’t wait to start modifying

[@qx4n9e1xp]

I borrowed a buddies 4runner for an overlanding trip in cold weather. We tried to set up a tent, but ended up just staying inside the truck. DID NOT like the space in the back for sleeping whatsoever. Kind of shattered the dream of buying my own 5th gen 'runner for me. I grew up taking frequent road trips with my family in our 2001 Econoline van. I'm super nostalgic for being able to sleep in the back anytime I want. So here I am looking at the Expedition because it's a step "up" in size from the 4Runner, without going to a Land Cruiser, which still fetch a hefty premium for a decent 2013 one. Glad it's proving to be capable offroad for most obstacles out there. I can see the value of these going up in 5-10 years.

[@mediocreman2]

I'm not a big guy and don't like the small size of the 4runner or Lexus version.

[@littlefarmer32]

Well done on the all around rig up accessories and kit. Good times Offroad

[@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531]

All for keeping our deserts prestine. We can never be reminded enough on it's importance of manitaining clean habits!✌🏼🏜️

[@nevadadrifter]

Really been enjoying the local content! I can’t wait for spring to get here, so I can get out on the trails and do some ghost towning. I was stuck with a not-so-capable crossover for the last few years, but I have a 21 Power Wagon on order that is supposed to be in by the first of next month. Hope to see you out on the trail sometime!

[@ragtie6177]

Great video. Expedition's have their quirks and ups and down sides ( as do all vehicles ). But if you learn them and know what to expect, even better... How to correct them or repair them yourself, they are Fantastic. I know, I'm on my third one. They're basically an F-150 with an enclosed bed. And I've been camping in mine (each & all of them) for over 20 years. And, I'll get another after this one. I prefer the first generation models, but love the others as well. The possibilities are endless...even on a shoestring budget. My current Expy is another '98, with 160K. No rust. And I've chosen to make this particular vehicle a 2wd Overlander. Just to show people you can get out and do it without 4wd. Loved this video. Thanks.

[@mesh3l_926]

is it possible in deep sand / sand dunes ? i have a 2wd 2009 expedition and i am fairly new to camping and afraid of getting into the depths of the sand dunes because i am not sure if i can make it without getting stuck, thats why i dont stray as far as i like , do you think it can make it without 4x4?

[@AllTerrainFamily]

No. Not sand. If you try it air down the tires and go fast.

[@ragtie6177]

I don't take it where I know it won't go. Just common sense. Some situations require 4x4/AWD . You'd certainly not go there in it. There's a huge difference between overlanding/exploring...and a tual fourwheeling.

[@peternorthrup6274]

Im into my 2nd year of my 04 expedition. You name its got it. Another 6 months. It should be done. Its a southern rust free truck. Lots of room. 2 inch and 35s. Cant wait. Have fun.

[@nemesis851_]

“Very little aftermarket for Expedition” UNDERSTATEMENT OF ALL TIME I have 3rd Gen 2009 - Have to resort to what do I want and then it will have to be modified to work Or I’ll CAD something myself

[@RallyNavigatorOnline]

Thanks for the epic video - you did a great job filming and editing! Stoked to see my truck is now internet famous! Happy trails!

[@lanceg.8458]

I REALLY like your Expedition. I have poured through the want-ads and can't seem to find your 2016 model in that same config for an expedition. All the 2016's that have the plastic panels wrapped around the bottom of the vehicle are fleet models with few options and round running lights. I thought perhaps maybe you had yours coated or did it come that way? Also, did you replace the Turbos with aftermarket Turbos? I can't tell from the video if that was done or just a mod? Stellar truck!!

[@RallyNavigatorOnline]

@@lanceg.8458 Thanks for the note. The lower body panels were sprayed with bed liner (Line X) I think it was about $1000. I have replaced the intake, intercooler, turbos, exhaust and added a programmer. Truck is currently in the shop getting raptor front suspension and custom rear suspension (larger FOX shocks and lower control arms). The money pit never stops!

[@lanceg.8458]

@@RallyNavigatorOnline So cool!! We'll need an update video showcasing the new mods :)

[@BorellaFamilyAdventures]

I wanted to follow up with you on this project. How do you like it? Does the interior shake over everything or is it holding up well? Thinking of grabbing one asap.

[@ciscoh1]

That’s cool 😎 I wish these suvs had more aftermarket parts available. Would love to see some of those huge glass pieces get delete and have a panel that can hold a few Jerry cans there.

[@zag999zag]

Thanks for sharing your gears very helpful

[@PLUTON9475]

Regards From Costa Rica🤩🇨🇷

[@nemesis851_]

2009 Expedition here. I know the pain of “no after market support”

[@COUCHSECURITY]

You have a nice rig.

[@Fparrish]

Nice 👍🏼 love it

[@thedefinitive6296]

Love it!

[@DEERCREEKGUNSHOP]

Awesome!

[@Scotpatriot]

Just got a 2015 exp el 3.5 turbo 4x4. Looking forward to doing some overlanding here in beautiful Arizona

[@JeepsNdieselMan]

I’m currently working on a 17 Expedition EL. Trying for an overlanding family truckster so the extra room for the four of us is handy. I love to see these being built and used off road… cause like you said, it’s an oddball platform and the aftermarket is pretty scarce. I’d love to find a selectable locker for the rear 9.75… right now a roof rack and rocker skids are in the works.

[@12pawsinn]

I miss my 07 expedition El.. looking at a 15 or a 19 f150 but definitely leaning to the 15 expedition

[@Xoxo-zg2do]

انا املك اكسبدشن منذو أكثر منو١٣ سنه ونزلة بطرق أشد وعورة من هذي فورد يفوز عن تجربة

[@ickess]

I have an 03 expedition Eddie Bauer edition. 5.4 l v8 with 4 high and 4 low. Other than falken wild peak AT tires it’s stock. Driven a lot on the beach in NY but thinking of going over landing with it. Wondering how it would hang. I have some rust from living in NY from the road salt, Driving on beach. That worries me.

[@msandoval2291]

Okay that spool making a climb is different

[@xcesarxramosx]

Good outro

[@brv002]

I have that same Expedition but the longer EL version. Any way to find out more about the turbo intercooler upgrade he did?

[@15president15]

Is there a way to buy this roof rack?

[@GsrRobbie]

can i get a link to the 2" lift kit on amazon??

[@Pooooooops]

At 3:30 you can see why to run cam bolt lockouts

[@michaelnoeltner5268]

Do you know what off set you have on your wheels?

[@rodaragones3902]

I would like to know what roof rack are you using for your 2016 Ford Expedition? Can you put a roof top tent on top of it?

[@AllTerrainFamily]

It’s custom from 775 Fabrication. It would totally hold a RTT.

[@FILIPINOTUNER]

Interesting how he installed LSD's. The ControlTrac system in these are awesome. Mine has yet to fail me. I tripod and bipod on steep inclines often enough to be impressed by how it equalizes wheelspin. Plus I'm still on the stock street tires. So the system has to work extra hard haha.

[@AllTerrainFamily]

Bipod? How’s that work?

[@FILIPINOTUNER]

@@AllTerrainFamily When the car is balancing on two wheels, diagonally opposed. While the other two corners are airborne. 😁

[@cartercoffin3679]

How many miles on the motor? I’m looking at a eco boost with 200k.

[@macho.3088]

Someone please help me. I want to know if the 2003-2010 expedition would be good for overland or off road. I would love to buy a suburban or sequoia but im not trying to spend that crazy money rite now. Should i go with a expedition or should i wait till the car market prices goes down. I wouldnt mind EL Edition lol

[@aldocabrera8255]

what is the offset on the wheels please ??? all wheel specs would be nice !!!

[@bshupejr]

I would really like more information about the engine/power upgrades on this. Is there anywhere I can go to learn more about that?

[@AllTerrainFamily]

You’d have to track down Mike.

[@arashitohwa4047]

Do the detroit lockers make it sketchy on icy roads?

[@lanceg.8458]

They aren't lockers in that sense... They are limited slip diffs..

[@stephengalvan7722]

Hope you still have it

[@AllTerrainFamily]

He does. But he added long travel suspension.

[@FoxHoundSnake]

4x4?? I own one however it’s RWD but I also saw the potential and got on KZbin to see if and what anyone has done

[@bryanmesser7098]

Did have to replace the upper control arms

[@AllTerrainFamily]

Nope

[@rfjohns1]

What size wheels ? Are they just stock?

[@prmcollin]

Nitto Terra Grappler LT285/75/R17 with a 2” spacer lift on stock suspension

[@rfjohns1]

@@prmcollin The lift does not require an increase in suspension travel?

[@AllTerrainFamily]

Not necessarily. A lift can me just a spacer that pushes the strut down. Nothing else changes. It’s not ideal. But it works.

[@prmcollin]

@@rfjohns1i quoted what he said in the video. Personally, I have a strutmasters conversion kit from air ride to coils. Their support said a 3” torsion key lift would not be a problem with the new shocks

[@rfjohns1]

@@AllTerrainFamily I was thinking of the ReadyLift with using just the stock 18" wheels. Does a 33" really provide much benefit off-road with 18 Wheels?

[@Wicked_RotF30]

I would only want a v8. No complex v6 turbo engines. I would take a 4.6L 2v over an eco boost any day.

[@AllTerrainFamily]

Bot really an option anymore. But plenty of older rigs available.

[@adelinenicholas7075]

Are you on Instagram?

[@antn8387]

This isn't a minimalist setup. He literally has an off road package and roof rack.

[@AllTerrainFamily]

Minimalist doesn’t mean nothing. It means only the minimum. Which is relative.

[@TheTopGun920]

You think of a twin turbo full size SUV named the EXPEDITION as a soccer mom grocery getter?

[@AllTerrainFamily]

It has a cup holder for every item on the starbux menu.

[@kompacazador]

Can you provide a link to the detroit trutracs?

[@AllTerrainFamily]

No. Check with Detroit or your local off road shop.

[@YanboSolutions]

Could you put a link to Mike's YT or Instagram?

[@AllTerrainFamily]

I don’t think he has either.