TOURER vs OFF-ROADER. I went too far towards Tourer.

[@flysoutbackadventures]

After watching this video. And many others of yours. I have come to 2 conclusions. 1/. You are correct. The electronics running your system is way to complex. I believe very much in the K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid) policy for off roading and camping/touring. 2/. You seem to run like a bull at a gate with your builds. You have a preconceived idea b4 you start. And you will not deviate. Instead of letting it come slowly and naturally. In other words letting the project develop a life of its own. And most importantly this is not a criticism of you. ( as i know I will get a lot of negative feed back ). Just my opinion/observation.

[@4xoverland]

Please don't confuse not agreeing with everything you say with 'negative feedback'. You'll only get an honest response from me. Some people confuse that with intolerance. It isn't. Okay . . . "bull at a gate with your builds". I think that's a bit unfair. " You have a preconceived idea b4 you start." Yes, I definitely do. It's this that motivates the project. "And you will not deviate." No I won't - not much anyway. Way too expensive. I have a plan and I go for it. but I do learn and adapt. Not every concept, idea and change is shown on screen. You only see part of what really happens and you have to make your judgements on that. Much of the reality is invisible to you. "Slowly and naturally." It sounds okay, but I have no idea what that actually means. What you may be saying is that I don't spend enough time trying things before committing to them. But how does one test an idea? Fit it, test it, try and and decide. And I did. Every decision affects every other decision. Not everything turns out the best way, and for better or worse, I'll show that on my channel. No hype to be found here!

[@adriaanvanwyk7064]

I disagree with the "bull at a gate" comment. If you watch a build from start to finish, you will see how the ideas develop and, quite often, change as challenges and/or solutions present themselves. Do I agree with everything Andrew does or says? Of course not! But I have yet to come across a reviewer/vlogger/enthusiast that does not try to BS you with marketing fluff. If something works, he says so. If it doesn't, he also says so - even if it's his own stuff or ideas that don't work... That's a rare commodity!

[@flysoutbackadventures]

@@4xoverland. Thanx for the reply Andrew. Not sure where u got the comment about "way too expensive" from. Maybe it was to do with the "way too complex electronics" comment I made. Even so. It is neither here nor there. Im glad you were honest in your response. And no offence or intolerance on my behalf was taken. Keep up the good work. As I do enjoy your videos.

[@4xoverland]

@@flysoutbackadventures I meant, way too expensive to deviate from a plan too much.

[@jno5]

I think Andrew has built so many vehicles over the years, not just for his personal use but for others also; so yes he has a preconceived idea which has come from years of experience. The feeling I’ve had from his early trips in this vehicle is that he likes so much about the vehicle & its build but he hasn’t fallen in love with it like he has with his last two Troopys; maybe it will grow on him when he does more trips in it, but I’m just not sure he will......🤔

[@timewithtofu]

This guy’s passion and brutal honesty is remarkable. He put together an overlander’s dream build and was like: “ehh, not for me”. After all that work, a typical person might have a bit of bias and overlook flaws. Not this guy. Awesome video

[@Fe_lix]

Well selling full price a vehicle on which almost everything was free, to build a new one where almost everything will be free again is a good incentive compared to a regular people that would lose a lot of money doing the same thing.

[@timewithtofu]

@@Fe_lix can’t argue much against that thought

[@PaydayGabeBCNV]

@@Fe_lix,, I really don't think Andrew received the L/c for free or the tray & camper. I could be wrong 🤷‍♂️, but obviously a good portion of the extras were sponsor donated. Maybe ASPW could chime in and clarify. Happy new year friends 🍻👍.

[@AnthonyIlstonJones]

@@PaydayGabeBCNV He doesn't need to chime in and clarify here, he states on the video what he was given and what he bought himself because it works.

[@iansmith5601]

The next build should be a minimalist off-road overlander. The challenge of taking less- without impacting on the enjoyment of the trip.

[@4xoverland]

The challenge of taking less- without impacting on the enjoyment of the trip. YESSSS.

[@jowly1462]

Andrew watch Ronny Dahl's Modified Ep 88 for ideas. Masterclass, it'll help you no end

[@iansmith5601]

@@jowly1462 is that the latest one with the patrol? If so. That’s the best build I’ve seen- I really like the guy (and his wife!)’a approach to the truck and travel.

[@jowly1462]

@@iansmith5601 Yes, that's the one. I was amazed at the detailed level of planning and disciplined build. No superfluous crap. Even Ronny was floored at times. Andrew, seriously go see how it's done

[@niceazzzzzzzzzzzzzzz]

Andrew should view the latest modified episode on Rohny dahls channel, similar build but simpler

[@davidwoods80]

People, go back and watch Andrew's intro tag that's on every video. Two keys: 'Watch me build trucks' and 'travel to the remotest parts of the world'. Well, the second is hyperbole given the world we now live in, but if the vehicle Andrew builds (with sponsorship) can't achieve that second key task, it's gotta go bye-bye, preferably while it can command the highest possible resale price. Andrew has tried and tried again to create the perfect do-it-all vehicle, and until Toyota, Quick Pitch, ARB, or someone else markets a magic wand that overrides the rules of physics, building a long-haul 4WD is going to be about determining what compromises the owner is willing to accept. The 'Dream Tourer' proves there's a limit. Maybe Andrew needs multiple vehicles for different objectives? And multiple aircraft? :-)

[@technopsychobedlam]

I said months ago that this was too big and heavy and didn't have enough off-road capablility and was told I was being too critical by other commenters. Months later Andrew arrived at the same conclusion.When you put a GVM upgrade on a vehicle and its still too heavy...well the message is pretty clear. The only surprise is it took him that long to realise.

[@andrewford80]

There are some massive fanboys in these comments who get super defensive if you speak ill of him or his projects. The reality is they want to camp and travel in comfort so they take everything bar the kitchen sink. Everything about this build is excess. Maybe they should get back to basics, or just tow a camper.

[@petergoss8910]

I agree I was one of them and the fanboys are frustrating with defensive comments these guys think Andrew Can't do wrong the cab guard should NEVER have been installed in the first place as a example and plenty of comments were made at the time regarding this. It's not only the weight but the functionally of the rig that I didn't agree with but Andrews brutally honest content is appreciated.

[@AlphGen]

could have turned it into a 6 wheeler and restored any capability lost due to its weight and length

[@AllThatJazz19]

Andrew said that the double cab platform didn't work for him as a good off roader when he bought the first double cab and sold it for a troopy. " too much weight over the rear axle" This new one is just too big and heavy.

[@glmaguire]

Look, to invest nearly $250k in this project build and then after hardly using it decides that it isn’t what he needs and that it has a number of shortcomings is just plain dumb. How could anyone have any confidence in his ability to deliver an autograph vehicle that is any good. Andrew is fast becoming a bit of clown with his constant miss steps and cocky ups with vehicles.

[@boringusername792]

That's the third time you've owned a double cab 79 and each time it's been a compromise too far. I can't think of a vehicle that suits you better than a troopy. However it would be cool to see you take on something other than a land cruiser just to see what you would do with it! What about a more affordable vehicle? People really enjoyed you Africa 105 build, partly because of Paul Marsh but also because it was more attainable.

[@MohammadKhan-nb5xl]

For an ordinary person like me its a $200k rig... way out of the limit of 99.9% driver. But i like to watch these type of enjoyable video coz its free. Good luck andrew . Merry Christmas & happy new year .

[@andrewford80]

It's unbelieivable that someone can drop that much cash on a rig only to find it isn't what they wanted. LIke, how do you know do some analysis beforehand? It's up for sale for 235k at the moment. You can buy a whole house for less than that in some parts of australia.

[@bannedone3ice138]

@@andrewford80 ok, 235k Australian $ is around 2, 84,93,750 Pak Rupees and that is a huge bargain. Why ? Because my 05 Prado stock is around 5 million rupees. So just imagine the taxes we pay here in my country 😌

[@zulqarnain401]

@@andrewford80 it was for 180K a couple of days back, price went up after the video was released.

[@sconce3]

@@andrewford80 Design it, Build it, Use it, Change it. And in Andrew's case, Sell it.

[@marcpikas2859]

I also enjoy whatever build Andrew does but from a $ perspective one makes more money selling expensive toys to rich people.

[@Michael_Mears]

It'd be nice if one of your next builds were built to a price perhaps more realistic to a greater number of people. It's easier to do anything or everything when sponsors are throwing gear and kit at you, either for free or at a discount. (Good on for you for that, I must say. You've shown so many products I didn't even know were on the market.) To place a dollar limit on the mods for whatever the donor vehicle is, and decide from the outset the main purpose, would be a very worthwhile exercise. You have enough audience base, even if it's only your Patreons, to allow input from others in the direction of such a build.

[@davidhamad6125]

But why? His primary goal of building it is to do his job of overlanding & making documentaries, & have the vehicle make that job easier for him. Trying to see how to build a vehicle with a certain budget to teach others isn’t his primary goal; he’s actually done similar projects like that or at least shown it on his channel several other times.

[@AlphGen]

you can build a great tourer out of a pajero or prado, his needs are different to most but similar to others. Everybody has different goals in this space

[@vvk]

I'd rather see Andrew do his own build as the whole point ( at least for me) is to get inspiration not a piece to copy as at the end we all have different needs and Andrew's time and budget are limited.

[@larjkok1184]

Buy a Toyota Hiace, throw a Coleman burner and an esky in the back along with camp chairs and table.

[@King88_8]

@@davidhamad6125 exactly.. why would I watch a channel that's literally doing something I'm doing or really what 95% of us are doing? Nobody wants to watch Joe Soap talk about slide out drawer and a fridge 😁

[@kellydrolet4740]

Back to basics. When is enough - enough? The electronics, battery management systems, radios, .... You mentioned Snow master. When I looked them over at the 2018 Overland West Rally there were 3 factory engineers from the snow master factory standing over our shoulders listening to our questions, and comments. Everything from door access, handles, the remote control, weight, etc. was being recorded. All for ideas on improvement. KISS - and something you can fix on your own. Whether touring or remote off-road travelling - being able to trouble shoot and fix is way more important than having a remote app to fire up the water heater or travel buddy. KISS

[@bannedone3ice138]

Almost an hour of Andrew thoroughly going through his build made my day !

[@MrPropanePete]

I've owned 4WD vehicles since 1968, never been without one, worked in the bush, remote areas, etc. I watched every episode of your build and I was impressed with your passion and fascinated by the technology and attention to detail. About half way through the build I couldn't help feeling that it was getting away from you. Armed with the lessons you've learnt from this project I think your next vehicle will be exactly what you need and I look forward to watching the process.

[@syferone1598]

I’ve always thought that you’ve gone full tourer when you completed this rig. Bring back the Troopy with a fully modified rear camper space.

[@built4xploration253]

I have always truly appreciated your honesty. Especially when being critical of your own decisions. That requires a huge level of humility. Thanks.

[@clp1]

Hi Andrew SPW! I'm a bit late on this comment, but figured I had something relevant to add: based largely on your earlier reviews my wife and I bought ourselves a Tommy Camper (an early onset midlife crisis likely provoked by COVID lockdowns)! We had the 1st of two Tommy Campers brought into NZ and we've just returned from our maiden voyage around the South Island. After our first trip in this camper the ONLY thing we can think about is how to get back out in it. I've never slept so well or enjoyed such an easy camp set up, I've also never spent so much money on recreational equipment, but despite that neither myself nor my long-enduring wife had the least regrets after our first trip. Now this brings me to my main point: how can you sell your beautiful new rig?! I won't use the words "betrayal" or "heartbroken" or "full of a blind, all consuming rage", but I was looking forward to more Tommy Camper content from you! That being said *sigh* I respect the decision, and I understand the need for hardcore off-roading ability in your hardcore and sun baked neck of the woods; NZ is a touring rig country for sure. OBVIOUSLY you're making a huge mistake selling the Tommy Camper, but terrible decisions make for great content anyway, so should be good as gold (just busting your chops) :-) I will end by saying that: despite the relentless nitpicking and what I suspect is clinically diagnosable "fussiness" when it comes to your rigs, you've been right about literally EVERYTHING that's overlapped with our own build, and you've saved us from a number of expensive disappointments, so thank you. I only wish you were 2 meters tall like me so you'd solve a number of "tall guy problems" that I end up having to deal with (the biggest being that the Land Cruiser utterly fails for taller drivers as the left leg has no place to rest as there's no centre console). All the best from an ex-pat NY Yank living in NZ, maybe we'll see you on the trail some day.

[@jules9094]

The fine print comment about Alucab makes me reluctant to buy any of their products. I know they have a lot of great products but if they or their distributors don’t encourage negative comments about their products it worries me that they don’t care for feedback or customer satisfaction.

[@Genesis-Import]

There are two side to each story, its better not to jump to conclusions.

[@jimblackburn3182]

I thought the same. As I recall Andrew was always positive about his troopy alu-cab roof. It’s not like he’s out to bash them unfairly.

[@Malc664]

@@jimblackburn3182 Yes, Andrew has probably lifted their business so that's quite nasty to threaten court action.

[@brianwalker1933]

Based on Andrews statement about the fact Alucab would sue him if he made “any negative comments” about their products, then “l wouldn’t buy anything from them”. So much for free speech.

[@Genesis-Import]

Alu-Cab never threatened to sue Andrew, its between Andrew to the AU Distriboture, and for my knowledge it has nothing to do with a comment regarding a product and more about the professional work of the Distriboture. Like i wrote there are two side for the story, and man shell ask himself why the a great working relationship between ASW and Alu-Cab came to an end. Although I'm the European distributor and share holder at Alu-Cab im not sure i can even explain myself why it came to that and for my point of view it should never came to that point, but for this story there are even more then just two sides, and sometimes some one take a side without really understanding or knowing what is going on the other side.

[@musokid89]

I actually really liked the most recent vehicle you built and sold in Africa. I think something like that vehicle here in Aus is what you want.

[@EddyCullen]

did he sell the 100 series in africa??

[@King88_8]

@@EddyCullen yup. It's sold

[@kg0173]

Do 20 year old Nissan Patrol, that would really lift the channel.

[@kg0173]

@@DaciaProject Just a little trip. I enjoyed it.

[@musokid89]

@@DaciaProject yep, completely agree. he wants comfort and offroad ability, needs to be a 200. stop buying 70s!

[@sgee8353]

Love the second last scene, with household appliances plugged into power board, clearly filmed in a caravan park or group camping location with some ones else's tent in background. For a pure overlanding vehicle it often ends up in 2 wheel drive accessible paid campsites. None of this feels like 'camping' to me. AND if we are going ALL the way with honesty, KZbin channels never don't move on to build another vehicle, no content = no revenue. Just my 2 cents worth, many won't agree, that's fine too.

[@ultrafarmer3069]

hey mate it seems as though you have put much thought into your decision however I am somewhat disagreeing with you on your conclusion that this ute is not offroady enough. As someone who lives and works out of a Landcruiser belting it through some of the worst country imaginable with hundreds of kgs of equipment( chemical spray unit with 600l of water + chainsaws and all other associated equipment) its my belief that your possible not giving it a fair shake. When i think of the polar opposite to this ute a swag thrown in the back, an esky and a cooker, yes its lighter and more robust offroad but its nowhere near as enjoyable as it possible could be with just a touch more gear. My suggestion is trim the fat. cut back to the bare essentials. We are all guilty of loading down to the bumps stops and arriving home with a bunch of stuff that wasn't touched all trip. they are in credible capable cars such that i am constantly suppressed. What ever you choice mate i look forward to seeing what you do next thanks for the entertainment.

[@antonioarroyas7662]

Other side of the world but after over 20 years in the bush we're down to three totes for our family of five. Little context, here in Canada the wife and I started doing canoe trips over 20 years ago. We were young and started with relatively short 4 or 5 day trips. After each trip we would look at the gear we used and the gear we didn't. Eventually we got to the point where we could do a portage in a single go. Canoe and small backpack with wife carrying the food and tent (It's a bit more complicated but whatever). We eventually started doing 120 km canoe routes and would add a couple extra days on top of what we figured we would need. Two high quality hammocks, nemo sleeping pads, down sleeping bags and the best waterproof/resistant ultralight tent money can buy (with lots of space). It's pretty amazing what we can get away with now after years of dialing things in... Kids now so epic canoe trips are over but we can grab a couple bins, toss them in the SUV and be gone in no time. We just plan for the food, I do the maps (GPS, Phone, Paper and compass) then off we go. BTW, back in the day it was a Subaru Impreza hatch, now it's a Honda Pilot. Plenty capable of hitting the logging roads and abuse them each trip. Maintenance and a good mechanic is key, also, doing your own basic work is essential. We'll go two weeks in the middle of nowhere and have a blast. When the kids came along at first I brought way too much stuff, didn't take long to get back to basics and keep it simple. One thing we don't have to worry about up here is water though, a quality gravity filter and lakes all over the place. The Happy Camper by Kevin Callan is a good start, from there you can build on his ideas and research what works for you. Replace canoe with vehicle and the gear falls into place. I think the best Canadian canoe books are a good place to start if you are looking for the essentials to pack and then build on that. Backpacking is a little too sparse on gear.

[@ultrafarmer3069]

@@antonioarroyas7662 our gear evolution has followed a similar pattern to much gear initially then dialing it in. when we go away we go for hunting trips specifically targeting feral pigs you lose a lot of space just in the ute tray room required for the dogs so you pack simple, also its generally very rough where we go so you have to pack fairly light typiclly swag, engle , food and beer is all we pack could defiantly be more comftable in a big roof top camper but a decent swag and a busy day make for a good nights sleep.

[@antonioarroyas7662]

@@ultrafarmer3069 Hunting is certainly a different ball game :) I'd say Moose requires the most gear and is best done as a team effort. Some people just pay a guide and go pull a trigger. We do it all from start to finish, it's not about the "trophy", it's about so much more. In the end, a good size moose gets a group of fifteen of us 20 or so lbs of meat each. As for other game like ducks it's much less prep. Like anything in life, the more effort you put in, the better your chances of success. That being said, there are plenty of days where we came up empty. There are certain animals I just won't hunt though, Bears being one of them. The meat sucks and people generally just hunt them for the fur and usually claim the meat is "tasty" (it's not). One guy I know bow hunts Moose, he's pretty hardcore and fit! Ice fishing is pretty fun too. I'd say winter stuff much like your summer adventures are more dangerous and extra weight is a small price to pay when it comes to a life or death situation. Cheers bud, looking forward to heading down your way one day!

[@ultrafarmer3069]

@@antonioarroyas7662 sounds like you living the dream up there mate. Likewise hopefully once the world sorts its self out I can visit your neck of the woods 👍🏻

[@antonioarroyas7662]

If you come up here I'd recommend Vancouver and Vancouver island. Like Australia Canada is pretty massive, 3 weeks in British Columbia is a pretty sweet trip. Also, come up in the summer...

[@utahjohnnymontana3373]

Are you considering waiting to see how the Ineos turns out when its finally released? Personally I think your last Troopy was almost perfect. The full length wedge camper roof gave it the perfect balance of comfort and low bulk.

[@cjeam9199]

There’s no point him waiting that long I reckon. It won’t come earlier than promised, but it might be delayed, it will take some time to get any to Australia for people to buy, there will be fewer parts for it, and if you want a reliable vehicle never buy the first year of a new model.

[@sheldoncelliers450]

I’d still really like to see a Mercedes G-wagon chassis cab build. The Offroad capability is really great and the back allows you to build whatever you want.

[@sheldoncelliers450]

@@DaciaProject I think the main problem with a Mercedes build is sponsorship. Not many accessory companies have the equipment so the ‘pool’ is a lot smaller to choose from. Second most Aussies have or want a land cruiser so to promote products for a land cruiser is really good business. So I understand the ‘business challenges’ of a Merc build but man would it be something so very special!! I know Andrew doesn’t like the single cab but that’s where the build can really be different, you extended the chassis of the cruiser...extend the cab of the g-wagon! Make it an extended cab or possibly if you really want a double cab. But I say an extended cab with access hatches on the outside. So camera gear is accessible from both inside and outside. Then two options for the back...either a tray with canopy and standard 4x4 kit out or another camper canopy but smaller and lighter to avoid the dream tourer weight and size issue? I’m sure Andrew would have great ideas for it and most importantly he’ll fall in love with it. But he’ll need some decent companies to work with and just don’t think there is anyone to back a G-wagon build.

[@kenorrah8072]

Best off road video I’ve seen in years. The reality of getting out there and doing it and sitting in your den designing it are two different things. The outback is a harsh mistress.. I’ve learned over years of working remote, that simple is best. I will always choose a lever over an electronic switch , a cable over a relay . The manufacturers have in my opinion gone down the wrong road in their journey of trying to soften the tool that is a 4x4 . I understand their rationale because the majority of buyers will never take their product to the limit of its capabilities, but when you do actually go remote and it all goes “ Hell West and Crooked “ you need to be able to sort it there and then with the basic tools that everyone carries. Everyone that has visions of getting out there should get a job running the boundary fences of a large property, or work for a survey/ exploration company for a while. Flash Harry gear doesn’t cut it if you properly get of the beaten track.

[@aslkdfjhg]

I'll say it because no one else has. You really haven't gone where a truck and trailer can't with this truck. A heavy land cruiser is in some aspects compromised just as much as if you were towing. The camper is more weight higher up on one axle. You could save yourself over $100k by buying an off the shelf duel cab and an off-road trailer. And if you were travelling in competition level tracks you wouldn't have neither, you'd have a cheaper truck, a swag and a bunch of spares. If you had unlimited money you'd be never satisfied with any truck. It'll be too heavy, too slow, too uneconomical or not ergonomic. Make a budget, make a plan, and and aim for the stars.

[@4xoverland]

I agree. I won't tow. So, the only things to do is go smaller.

[@telebrettable]

Why not tow though? Best of both worlds. I towed for a year and we went everywhere except the Cape and only because we ran out of time. And the two days we spent bunkered down with massive winds I was sure glad I had a little bit of room and wasn't stuck in a tray camper.

[@cameronwood1994]

@@telebrettable I like towing, and in many ways they are ideal, but as Tom Sheppard points out in his book (which I'd wholeheartedly agree with him on this), you need two or three helpers to move a trailer around when you get stuck. If it's just one or two of you, it becomes a pain. Also, reversing a trailer off-road is not good fun either.

[@telebrettable]

Yeah I agree re recovery but its not life threatening as you can just leave it. The ability to base camp as well is a huge plus for the trailer.

[@cameronwood1994]

@@telebrettable Also, what is the vehicle rated to tow wise? Some manufacturers stipulate different limits for on- and off-road use. For example, my vehicle is rated to just 1000 kg off-tarmac, yet is plated to 2000 kg for on-tarmac use (4000 kg if you have driver controlled as opposed to overrun brakes, not that I'd want to tow 4000 kg with a Series III Land Rover with just 47 kW/ 62 bhp).

[@adriaanvanwyk7064]

Another fantastic, honest review of what works and what doesn't. Thank you! Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and prosperous 2021! Cheers!

[@NippyMoto]

I knew this vehicle was on the chopping block as soon as you said you didn't love it like the troopy.

[@leed1245]

I enjoy your honesty with all of your reviews. Also your attitude. You really don't care. "I've been doing this my entire life. I know how to drive and what are the good points and bad points of a vehicle." Folks today are way too sensitive and if you give them solid advice of their preconceived notion of what is right, even when they are wrong, you become the jerk or enemy. I can not tell you how many times I've told people don't do that with all my heart. They do the exact thing I warned against and get stuck, break something or really struggle. And then when you try to help them with the situation they are in they get double mad. Best is when they do it over and over again and you just sit there watching. I gave up. But after all these years you did not and it seems you make a living with this stuff. Surprised you haven't gotten dropped by the sponsors. I don't think there is one all around perfect overland vehicle. Unless you are building a few rigs for the specific terrain and climate. The one featured would get crushed in a cold winter setting. Might even kill someone from exposure.

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

When Andrew was talking about the requirements of the new built he had explicitly stated that he wanted a place where he could edit his videos on the go. When I saw the Aussie dream tourer revealed I wondered where he could edit. Now he wants to go smaller. I wonder if able to edit on the road is still a requirement.

[@gotoylc]

Did Andrew and wife not say there was less space to edit than in the Troopie? That's what I heard. So going 'smaller', where edit room is concerned, is not an option on the next build.

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

@@gotoylc I thought so too but the whole premise of the Aussie dream tourer was to be able to edit. So going smaller and still keeping the desire to edit on the go may translate to a different kind of set up than going smaller and abandoning the desire to edit on the go.

[@gotoylc]

@@dimitristsagdis7340 I am eagerly awaiting the next build as you are too! I can't foresee Andrew giving up editing on the go.

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

@@gotoylc yeah, I think so too. Especially for long trips (in colder climates- as prior to COVID he was talking about a US your) editing will be a must. So I’m very curious to see his solution as this is something that interests me very much.

[@tomsawyer4321]

I have to agree with you Andrew about the balance between touring and off-road. That will always be a tricky needle to thread. The vehicle you have built is fabulous for touring and still good enough off-road to rescue Nissans but wont let you scratch the off-road itch enough. Now you know and you have learnt a lot. A very useful exercise and I would be lying if I didn’t say I am salivating at the chance to see you conceptualize and create another off road centric camper. 2021 is starting to look very bright

[@davidhamad6125]

I second this, Andrew.

[@petergoss8910]

Professional designer/builder like Patriot or others uses Auto Cad with 3D drawings and scaled measurements. They can explain weight and weight distribution, height of the tray for access also show and fill wasted space all before you buy the platform to build it on. Andrews method is buy, design in his head (Didn't see any drawings) then Pay or have sponsors build the tourer. Final product shows shortfalls in DESIGN not the quality of the build. So this is the difference between true experience in designing and building a product that is usable, functionally, no wasted space, balanced, all within budget for owner and builder. His choice he can do what he wants and this must work for his channel dollar wise with KZbin and sale of the trucks being profitable due to freebies. But in the real world if you follow this content providers ideas it wouldn't be a dream tourer just a nightmare.

[@defendermodsandtravels]

C'mon, firms like Patriot have small production runs of vehicles whereas this vehicle is a one off. Hardly surprising that they do 3D modelling and the amateur builder doesn't.

[@cjeam9199]

Patriot don’t explain the weight, they just go for more weight and bigger vehicles. The things they’re best known for are massive trucks that practically cause small landslides.

[@ethan928]

Glad I watched the whole video. Can't wait to see what you build in the future

[@Butho_04]

Wow!! Im really early For this one! Absolutely live your narration style Andrew! One can tell that a lot of thought has gone into what shall go onto the video.... Unlike the younger "influencer types" who just go through the vehicle like its some type of shopping list...without nuance or pause For more "conversational" detail, eg the stock mirrors vs clearview. Absolutely brilliant.

[@IMLYINGISWEAR]

Beautiful Rig. Now where's the Jimny build Andrew?

[@bizyb01]

May-be Andrew has been following Mighty Car Mods the JIMNY BUILD Now he's starting to get worried they are getting more KZbin KICK regards being the experts in 4xAVD (LOL) than he has getting. Envy is a cruel master.

[@RoamOverlanding]

That would be funny! 😂

[@1000adstar]

Hi Andrew, I hate to say it mate, but I think you need to bite the bullet and just tow. I used to be the same as you (and had a similar setup) but decided to tow a full blown off-road van (16ft) 5 years ago. It is the best of both worlds. Extra set of axles. Unhitch and set off with no restrictions then come back to your base camp etc. The ute/camper setup was way too unstable to be taking on proper off road tracks so being able to unhook and have a very light vehicle to adventure in is so much better (for us). Then having the luxury of a van in very remote locations is also hard to beat too. Keep the vids coming. Enjoy watching them all and watching someone with a lifetime of off-road experience.

[@ozarkoverlandoutfitters9218]

I’m excited can’t wait to see the next build I know it will be epic. I’m with you I have to have a cruiser that is comfortable to travel but really good Offroad and in America the 80 series fits that bill for me

[@desmondoneill7299]

Hi Andrew. keep on doing what you are doing. Yes, some of your set ups are too expensive, lavish for me but i still enjoy seeing what you do and what is possible. I know you can take a stock vehicle and tour and have a good time and i also know that one can spend a fortune. You push the boundaries and it is for a discerning public to get ideas from you and incorporate them into their builds. Keep up the good work and i look forward to what’re ever it is you are busy with.

[@mackf7275]

Sell it. Do a 200 series with drawers in the back. Keep it simple. Get a GVM upgrade. Leave out all the unnecessary gadgets and simplify the 12v setup. Sleep on a stretcher using a swag covered by a rhino 270 awning and walls. In my opinion this would be the ultimate setup for you.

[@KaizenOz]

This, no condensation issues in a simple swag vs roof top tents that people spend 5k+ on

[@mackf7275]

@@KaizenOz exactly. Never get wet. Swag doesn't even get wet.

[@jeep6242]

He wants a vehicle to be able to edit content while on a trip. He has said this many times. Swag is terrible for that.

[@mackf7275]

@@jeep6242 the awning and walls create the perfect space to eat, sleep, edit etc out of the elements.

[@petergoss8910]

@@jeep6242 so this current set up works for editing ?

[@scottodonnell7849]

I think that you summed up the entire episode with the roof rack, all of the new stuff with the rails and tie down points, the mounts for treds and maxtrax (how good are the original Rhino Baskets). There comes a point when we want to go and travel and we should not be discouraged from travelling simply because you don't have a redarc system or a lithium battery or a chopped 200 with a lift. These things don't dictate where you can go, what does is your ability to adapt and understand where you are and what is required. At the end of the day a standard Hilux might parked next to the 150k 79 at camp, they may get there slower and their set up might be slower but the sunsets and beers are the same. I love people that modify and innovate and thanks for the honesty in this video. Keep up the good work and safe travels

[@romulusoverland314]

The reason why I like your channel is because I can live out my fantasies through your camera lens. Its so much cheaper to learn from your mistakes then from mine. :) Thanks for the awesome content and keep it up! I also admire you and Ronny Dahl for keeping it real and being honest. I've grown to hate some other channels (247) for ALWAYS shoving their sponsors' equipment down our throats! Its not real and leaves me not listening to a word they say.

[@XynxNet]

I think you missed a basic point. Is the ute-camper compromise worth it in real life? How often do you use it as a ute? How often do you use it as an overlander? How often do you use it for driving around town, where it doesn't matter which kind of vehicle it is?

[@benwhelan8542]

This guy builds the best touring overlanders I've ever come across , that rig right there is my dream rig rights down to the color I've learnt so much from this guy building my 80 series ,

[@jeep6242]

I am a bit relieved to hear some of your criticisms. I think the LC and the extension are brilliant and I don't really think it's too big. But literally nothing about the Tommy Camper in this use and set up as it is makes any sense. I think there is less usable interior space in there than even a pickup with a camper topper like a Vagabond or Super Pacific in the US. Those things weigh less than 200KG too. For all this extra weight you get zero extra functionality. I also think there is too much storage space accessible from the outside. A lot of that stuff could have been inside the camper in storage you could sit on and thus increase living space. Finally the access height of everything on the outside is just preposterous. It's so unusable it hardly matters that you can easily get to anything if you then have to put it on a lower table or stand on a stepstool to use it. A canopy with a hardshell sleeper and a walled annex to assemble in bad weather would have worked way better than this. I hate to say it but a Ram with a camper would give the room and off roadabilty you seek. I really wish you would just ditch the Tommy camper and give another camper module a try though. I think a normal camper with the bed pushed out farther over the cab would transform the sheltered living space. You should try it given you could probably borrow one just for one trip given the relative ease of swapping campers vs building an entire new vehicle. I was in love with this build until the camper. I will be sad to see it go so soon without another crack at it.

[@johnpeake-livingretired]

hello Andrew, I'm so glad you did this video, I've been forced into retirement, watched every video on this build, have taken the plunge purchased a Jeep Gladiator to start my build, have been watching so many videos I'm standing back and just taking it to step by step slowly, but two things I'm doing is rooftop tent old school cooking and storage, the rest will come as I tour and see what I use the truck for, but one thing I'm looking at is the dealer tub or a tray! but I've got to say this Jeep has wonderful comfort and ride! the seats are 1000 KLM a day with ease. love the videos I'm sure more people like me are now watching with C19 just not going away! all the best John Sydney

[@wildcatoutdoors]

I will say it every single time, not being able to have a new troopy in the USA is the biggest disappointment to me in the off road world! Green with envy! I would rather spend the money on old tech any day than a new jeep

[@jusomebody3069]

The motors have complex ECU's, DPF's and other emissions controls on them so they really aren't old tech at all. The only reason they are so popular in Australia is that Toyota and Nissan no longer make a dual solid axle wagon, if they did then you would see every Australian in a new version of an 80 series Landcruiser not a 79 series.

[@andrewnuttall333]

Its refreshing to hear someone talk about value for money rather than the most promoted brands all the time, and also you justify when you do use an expensive item ie Seats! Entertaining as always! Just sold my 76 and will be in AU shortly looking forward to my next build which will be in AU after UK and NZ Awesome Vehicle!

[@MrGgraham76]

Any decent fabricator could resolve your tray bar height issue with minimal fuss and cost, and lower that heavy canopy 50mm in the process.. maybe worth doing if you plan keeping the truck for any length of time.

[@simonhjc]

Andrew, just want to add- i think youve nailed it in this video. I was just saying to my wife “theres nothing you cant have now in a build”. Like you ive had many 4x4s. A favorite was our trakka troopie. However, i need a ute as we have horses etc. so ive bought a dual cab. I considerd chopping a 200 (as i had one), but instead sold it for the 79. So glad i did. So my “build” has to be minimalist, flexable and using the truck in its original form. Keep up the great videos. They are real. (None of this “lets smash a vehicle up to the cape nonsense”). Merry Christmas

[@scumpert]

Open top fridges are much better when you open the door as cold air stays at the bottom!

[@VirtualPapercuts]

Your evolving pursuit of 4WD automotive excellence is fascinating. Your testing of product redundancy, and reliability is invaluable. This matters when the nearest help, and/or water, may be several hundred kilometres away. I look forward to seeing your next vehicle. Thank you.

[@mondohamster5702]

At $235,000 I cannot discern wether you actually really built it to make some coin or you were miles off deciding what it is you actually wanted. How does one toss real money into a project before giving a "relevant" amount of thought to the outcome. Or, is it easy to go over the top when sponsors throw all sorts of superfluous junk at you and you feel obliged to bolt it in somewhere. I think I have it. Cheers and good luck unloading it.

[@stevepayne4218]

Mmmm - advertisement for the vehicle offload?

[@lumikarhu]

the ending has been super honest and surprising despite the revealing title. Though I am not a minimalist, this looks too complex to me as well. And IMHO the camera shelf was a giant waste of precious space, but to each their own! Hope you get most of your money back and continue making cool builds!

[@SiCrewe]

There's not a lot wrong with this rig. It's just that it isn't the rig for you, or for your trips around Oz. I bet if you spent 6 months crossing, say, Asia or South America it'd be perfect. You're in the enviable position of having had an opportunity to bring together all the features most people only ever aspire to (and never achieve), and now you can consider how you might refine and condense those features into a more suitable vehicle. Let's face it, you really want this: www.campervanfinder.com.au/hire/wa-family-troopy-3-5-berth/ +EDIT+ If you don't like clicking links in comments, google "WA family troopy". :-)

[@il_DonGelato]

I think many of your followers would like to see a built based on a Hilux or Ranger (extra Cab) and a custom made canopy with a pop up roof like the Tommy Camper, but smaller and simpler. For example in Ronny Dahls Ep 88 (The Patrol Camper). If you don't like it, sell it ;-) Anyway, I always enjoy your content and sometimes wish I'd live in Australia as well.

[@ZachBrimhall]

You always say you hate the Land Rover, too many sensors, electronics. Builds a rig with space station capabilities.

[@4xoverland]

When a sensor brakes in a LR, it stops the car. In this camper, its a minor inconvenience.

[@marka6591]

@@4xoverland Come now Andrew...that’s not entirely true. On any NEW car broken sensors can do any range of things from stopping to limp mode. LR is no worse than any other.

[@4xoverland]

@@marka6591 It worse when the suspension and gearbox are all interconnected by a computer running a fussy program. I've seen a Discovery trapped, the owners were being brought food by passing travellers until a man arrived 10 days later, plugged in a laptop and turned off a damaged airbag sensor. It wouldn't even go into limp mode. The owner could not engage Drive until it was fixed, which took less than 5 minutes. 10 days + 5 minutes.

[@ZachBrimhall]

@@marka6591 Totally agree.

[@ZachBrimhall]

@@4xoverland Come on, this is no different than any modern vehicle with electronics. Same thing could happen on any new 4x4. That thing you just built could have some electronic issue with the engine and shut right down until a "laptop" saves the day. You really should stop the LR attacks. Be an equal opportunity hater.

[@shamo223]

Great build but you can tell by creating the extra space it has resulted in filling it with "stuff for stuffs sake". My 79 probably carries half of the "stuff" and we do 2-3 weeks touring no worries, and I bet there's another guy somewhere with half of what I've got again etc. Looking forward to the next build - I think Ronny Dahl has done a lot of good solid iterations on his 79 and almost has the mix perfect IMO - perhaps could be a basis for inspiration on the next one...

[@njingaradebe9652]

Your truck is beautiful, too nice

[@LockyourHubs4WDing]

To make the Travel Buddy work better when you're parked up, a voltage step up (either 13.8V or 15V) will give you the same performance from the oven as you get when driving, from the increased voltage.

[@abdulmalikalyahyai702]

17:20 you can use the Middle East version of the land cruiser mirrors .

[@GCTO239]

Exactly, I have a GRJ 78 with these mirrors. Imported from the Middle East to Germany. The mirrors are big and stable. No problems at all.

[@GCTO239]

My Troopy (GRJ 78) is just fine. Rooftop tent (iKamper Skycamp 2.0), Engel fridge, IBS Double Battery System, quality offroad modifications, no useless tech...it is an off-road-beast, a superb overlander and much lighter than Andrew's 79.

[@creekycheeks8582]

Hello from the USA. Great video! Very insightful, as allways. Love that you're getting back to your roots. Happy Holidays!

[@Ellie_Reid]

A 4x4 is like a motorbike, you cant have everything in one, everything is a compromise. But from watching your shows im not sure ive seen you really test this ones ability? Im sure you obviously have just would have been great to see. Only one that comes to mind is when you got stuck in the sand and had to get the traks out.

[@ianwatson3315]

I’ve never seen him in any extreme off roading..just flat desert or dirt

[@oolaganadenmunusami9652]

Thank you for taking on board our little conversation we had during the perth 4wd show. I know that you were already thinking about Health and Safety, however, thank you for making it part of your content presentation.

[@tenfeetwanderers774]

Doesn't want to tow a trailer because it limits where you can go off road, invests a quarter of a million $ in a vehicle which was supposed to be better. Probably should have went with an off road trailer in hindsight. Would have had the capability to tour, go off road or both. And I mean off road trailer, and not a caravan, or a hybrid, or even one of those fold out tent things that you see all in caravan parks or the likes. Something like a DOT or Patriot. No doubt you could get pretty creative, especially when you look at what has been built here.

[@Michael_Mears]

Yeah, when you consider where he's been in this rig you could have taken taken any 4WD and a camper trailer, it seems the "I won't tow" argument doesn't stack up much versus the actual use.

[@jeep6242]

Honestly I hate trailers too. But if I were him I think a viable path would be to set up the vehicle to be a one man palace of an offroader and then tow a trailer for when the wife comes along and the trip will be more for touring. Would have been fun to see him try it out before he sold the Troopy.

[@petergoss8910]

Yes but won't tow but this rig is worse any many ways I have mentioned before he hasn't gone anywhere you can't take a trailer so his argument doesn't make sense.

[@nigelclats6970]

Go for a six wheeler. Keep the wheelbase short as is,but add on a driven,but lifting rear axle. You then have the best of all worlds,a tighter turning circle,two extra wheels,carrying and driving,a nice load bed that doesn't have any overhang. The most important bit. Very,Very cool looking.

[@KrisSanders]

To be honest, I'm not surprised that is it up for sale. It looks to be an amazing vehicle and I have no doubts that the next owner will adore it's capabilities, but it seems that you like the conceptualization, construction and deployment of vehicles far more than their actual use. Your last troopy was an amazing vehicle and I was shocked that you sold it off so quickly. You are fair in your criticism (even if Alu-Cab AU is being panicky) and I appreciate your honesty in verbalizing your mistakes and offering corrections for them. I hope whatever you may decide to be your next vehicle will fulfill your requirements!

[@explor360]

I agree with your comments about the red vision...too complicated and expensive...stick to the BCDC chargers.

[@wa.gtrsoul]

With regards to the roof level light bars and the front spotlights, you mentioned they both do the same job. Perhaps angle the roof level lights downwards slightly so that the spread of light covers more of the moderate range road surface in front of the vehicle. The front spot lights should be set up more for lighting up longer distances. Then they will definatley have a distinct useful purpose.

[@jjsadv]

Its only not good off road as you have everything including the kitchen sink on board. Just reduce the luxury items and reduce the weight, and you then will quadruple its off road ability.

[@nunyabidness8870]

It's pretty low slung for the wheelbase though. It would be really easy to hang it up without going to 35 inch tires, but it's already too tall of a vehicle for them.

[@jamesosullivan1545]

Andrew very comprehensive overview of components & modifications of this vehicle. If I were cashed up I would engage your expertise to update my DC 79 series. Enjoy your reviews.

[@veselingramatikov]

Thats crazy. You just build it. I was sure that you are old enough for this but yep. The hearth need some fun :)))

[@pantherdean84]

Andrew, I do like how you are always honest in your videos so I'll be honest too. I haven't really watched any of the build videos of the 79, as the dual cab cruiser has never really appealed to me personally, I do like the troopy, wagon and single cab though and I'm looking forward to the new troopy build so see what improvements you make. It seems to me that the realities of filming force massive compromises and needs that the rest of us wouldn't have to worry about, so space/weight is always more of an issue. I did like seeing the full walk-around of the 79 though, I always see things that are either a good idea like the DC hub that I could see myself using (even though it would only be useful on a future 4wd for me), things that I wouldn't bother with because I don't like them (like the Redvision) or things that are good ideas to keep in mind for future reference (like the water systems). One thing I'm curious about though, you said that the camper was about $60k to build. What would to go without in the camper or substitute for a cheaper brand to build it for say, $40k?

[@timjones6255]

Thought you weren't allowed to work

[@jonahwigley3313]

Work? Lol.

[@christophersaul]

I really enjoyed this honest appraisal. As another commenter mentions, I was surprised in an earlier video when you didn't want to drive across the riverbed or then up the hill near a later campsite, even though we'd just seen a pickup go straight up it. I know it's hard to see on film what terrain is really like, but it seemed a shame that you didn't want to risk it. My Troopy is an odd compromise of family camper and offroad vehicle, with the emphasis more on the offroad side, which makes me happy. The other day I saw a track I knew I could do in my Patrol but which I'd be a bit worried to do in the Troopy as it's currently a bit top heavy. That made me know I'd make some simple changes in the new year to rectify the issue (some wider tyres and possibly offset rims). Those changes will also make it safer to drive in sand, which we have a lot of here in the UAE, as you know! I was glad I knew that I could tweak the Troopy a bit rather than thinking I should really have just bought a totally different vehicle or set it up completely differently.

[@kentucky4x456]

Very insightful walk around of the 79. While there is a lot of overlap between a rig built for off roading and a rig built for touring I feel that you hit the nail on the head in that there are also fundamental differences in the way you build the vehicle up. Often times touring comfort comes at the expense of off road capability and vice versa. A good all around rig is a balancing act, and will be different for everyone depending on where your individual priorities lie. Keep up the good work and I look forward seeing what you come up with next.

[@peterwolf5713]

Most of the parts have been gifted to you and you are asking retail pricing for your rig. A bit steep don't you think?! Besides you have entered a special league. Which "normal" person can afford a $250'000 setup to go exploring and camping? Would be great if you could come up with a built which main stream people could afford and not only the rich...

[@larjkok1184]

Go watch any “Modified” episode.

[@wheresthewinch4770]

You could build a better rig for $70k less. Your 79's are cool if you like bulk, however way to heavy & cluttered with unnecessary tech, fabrication & cargo, for a serious tourer or offroader. Why items such as scrub rails (+30kg), tray & camper instead of all in 1 unit(+200kg & it's 100mm+ to high), fridge slide (20kg), wheels (20kg), & so much unused cargo in draws. Great vid content but your cars are so busy with afterthought sponsor looking extras. Sponsorship is great...well done but, unnecessary items & complexity reduces outback enjoyment. Keep up the good work Andrew, & pls post some remote 🇦🇺 tracks.

[@shanefraser1054]

Losing your troopy was like losing a good woman. The new woman looks good but just isn't the same.

[@lorenzoronpedrique2952]

Next build should be a Hilux n80 with 255/80r17. And the challenge will be to adjust the camping gear to the minimum, because of a smaller, lighter truck. I will also love to see some difficult terrain travel. Something that really challenge the 4x4, the technique and experience. Cheers from Mexico, I am a fan since long ago. I have love every single one of your builds.

[@mjcavender1230]

Hello from USA. I was concerned about this build from the beginning. ASW had previously mentioned his concern about such a vehicle when he was considering options - in which he chose the Troopy. I am not surprised by his decision to part ways with the ADT. This is real life and I love it. ASW has always connected with his audience and kept it real. He feels more like a family member with his honestly and willingness to take us along for the ride. I have to admit that the Troopy is my favorite vehicle of all time. I cannot wait for the next build. AND, if I ever invented a product, I would want ASW to test it and uncover every fatal or annoying flaw. Manufacturers should appreciate the feedback if they want to produce an extremely high quality product. With the type of access we have today, manufacturers can easily address negatives with their products and let buyers know they will be improving it based upon the feedback - so stay tuned for XXX product 2.0.

[@gotoylc]

The rear of the Troopy could have been redesigned a little to give a little more space for editing. I felt there was ample room.

[@grantevans6597]

I respect this man's work and his uncompromising honesty. I have been following him since the early Nineties. Andrew, we have spoken before about how the privilege of overlanding has become a bloated industry. I continue to believe that the simplicity of travelling in the bush, has been compromised and undermined. This build represents my misgivings about the industry.. Too bloated, too heavy, too complicated, too overkill (even for a Tourer), too 'fancypants'. Thank goodness it sounds as if you have not abandoned your roots and I hope your next build represents that. And a big thank you for being willing to put your goons on the chopping block for our benefit.

[@AlbericoBarattieri]

Dear Andrew, when you started building the tourer I was wondering if it would end up being too heavy and bulky. However, I see that your second thoughts concern the complexity and unnecessary nature of some elements. All very interesting, because I'm redesigning the setup of my HDJ80 and some of the things you made will help me make decisions. I am also from the "old school" and one of the things I have learned in many years of traveling in the Sahara is: if it is not there it does not break. I am therefore very happy that there will be your new project shortly. Thank's for your job.

[@johnkemple]

Obviously KZbin has been good to our host. That vehicle has nearly every item you could put on it. I have a job and a pretty good one at that. I am not sure I could afford to buy all that stuff. I suppose that there are people who say " If there is a place for it I want it mounted, what ever it is". Quite frankly I doubt that many people really will have all this gear. I am sure that most of this is supplied by sponsors, if not than it must be Patreon money at work. I understand that there is a matter of convenience to the gear. This is not very realistic for the average person. Where is the fun in this really? Just another site that started with adventures and ends up as an advertisement show for off road-overland products. Gilding the lily comes to mind. In my opinion the show has lost something along the way. Certainly it has not slowed the addition of various pieces of equipment. Yes the vehicle has too many complicated systems and electronics. Superfluous indeed.

[@NigelNaughton]

I was thinking the same thing and decided to read some comments first. At first the video was interesting and then after a while it was like whine, whine...poor me I can't get comfortable in a $150,00+ rig (most likely a lot more! ) Seriously, try going out in a sub $10,000 rig and get back to reality. This is ridiculous. The more you have the more you want and the more you realize nothing is going to satisfy. The channel has become unrealistic.

[@electrocresent]

G'day, I very much agree with the redarc being too involved. I've been looking at the enerdrive system with the digital screen because it's easier (I'm not one to buy something I need a manual for nearby to use). I'm pretty new to building a camping/exploring ute and would be curious to hear any thoughts you have on the system.

[@benatkinson3224]

You can get good aftermarket cyclonic pre cleaner heads for snorkels, (such as Donaldson). The dust ingress alone through the standard Toyota raised air intakes (particularly through the join at the "elbow") is reason enough to upgrade. Worth looking into.

[@sand_shifter]

Andrew just buy a camper trailer... so you can set up , leave the camper and go 4wheeling .. way over complicated

[@calmvideo-kv6gv]

My thoughts exactly. I have a 2020 Troopy and a 2014 Vista RV XL off-road camper. It's a great combination.

[@GCTO239]

He will never tow! One should accept that.

[@sand_shifter]

@@GCTO239 yeah probably... but that’s the answer..if want all the gear he takes with him ..and he wants his wife to be comfortable and be able to actually reach things easily that’s the bloody answer. I’ve never seen Andrew tackle any hard 4wd tracks in Australia Canning Stock yes isolated yes , but not technically difficult.. So why not tow ? I understand it’s just for KZbin content which is fine by me anyway..

[@GCTO239]

@@sand_shifter agreed

[@glmaguire]

I think you’re right, he should get himself a good of road camper and he’d be set. It’s disgraceful that someone can drop the sort of coin he has and can’t get it right. He’s not professional and is actually starting to become a bit of an idiot.

[@michaelblake4442]

I agree whole heartedly with your comments re the mirrors, have a look at the MSA version they are smaller and much more suited to no van

[@Konchikusho]

ALU-CAB! I've had my eye on several Alu-Cab products and in particular their pop up roof top tent for a Troopy. I hope that Alu-Cab reads this; if you think for one minute that I as a potential purchaser will allow you to operate your business practice in this way then you should note that you just lost a customer. If a person cannot offer an honest opinion on a product then what is the point in considering someone's opinion. Andrew, just so you know, I've noticed you tend to tap dance every now and again in your reviews. I guess we all know why now. I wonder how many other companies are in the business of threatening lawsuits?

[@TroopyLife]

I think it’s the company that distributes Ali-cab in Australia that he was talking about....I may be wrong though.

[@Konchikusho]

@@TroopyLife I suppose that is possible, but he did the same thing with Alu-Cab’s awning. I thought that review was based in SA. Nevertheless, I had no idea that companies, regardless if a product was purchased outright or sponsored would put those kind of constraints, were out there. It makes me wonder what happened with BF Goodrich. If these are business practices that are out, it sure would be nice for consumers to know. It completely changes one’s perception when trying to do a build out.

[@Genesis-Import]

It has nothing to do with Alu-Cab, and it always better to understand that there are 2 sides for each story.

[@Konchikusho]

@@Genesis-Import Then, please fill us in. Don't make a blanket statement like "there are 2 sides for each story" because that is not what Andrew said or wrote. He clearly said that it is a "design flaw" which regardless of whether or not it is an opinion, he clearly stated "I must clarify that because if I say anything other positive opinions about All-Cab products, their Australian distributor has threatened me with law suits. Which makes me reluctant to even mention the name." You cannot tell me that Alu-Cab does not know that this is going on regardless if it is SA or AU. If someone suggests that there is a design flaw, shouldn't that company reach out and find why? I'm not trying to get into a piss match, I clearly want people to understand that this is not how companies should operate. If Australia has some kind of law that prohibits a negative opinion, then so be it. And if that is the case, clearly state as such so that I and others can move on from watching INFLUENCERS like Andrew.

[@davidshannon4854]

Maybe you need to do a bit more research rather than blindly follow the comments of someone who has most of his gear supplied free by manufacturers looking for exposure. I have no idea of the ins and outs of Andrew's dispute with Alucab, and I don't own any Alucab products but what I have seen of them would indicate that they are a quality offering. Do your own research maybe.

[@adventure_life5124]

I would be really interested to see Andrew do a budget rig. Base vehicle with little spends. He just seems to focus on everything at the premium end of the market. Nothing wrong with that by the way. I just think he could give a somebody new to overlanding with a real budget a real experience of ideas and I bet he would have fun doing it.

[@CharlesinGA]

People age, lives change, wants and desires change. I'm not a rock crawler, up the side of the mountain the steep way kinda person. However, The videos I've seen of you with the new rig present to me an attitude of pure enjoyment. Both you and Gwen traveling and enjoying the scenery, the birds, the animals, the wild outdoors. I agree with the assessment that things can get too complicated (electronically) and are not necessary. This is not a Boeing or an Airbus where fully automated systems are needed to eliminate a third crew member or to make complex flying simpler, but rather, it is something that needs to work, and work well, and not waste your time. You remarked that you spent 20 minutes trying to get a phone app to talk to the Redarc unit............ I'm surprised the phone isn't laying beside the road somewhere. Without manual overrides, you are Scr3w3d.

[@John-td9cp]

Modify the engine to counteract the extra weight. Fit more aggressive tyres. I think for your next build you should try and bring the minimum stuff along and add new items each time you take it out on a trip. Love your videos, cheers.

[@rynoopperman5010]

I absolutely love this thing and think that I will want to copy your car in its entirety as my next vehicle, sleeping solution Just not sure if all the solutions are available in South Africa. This is by far the best touring vehicle I have ever seen. Andrew you have really outdone yourself!

[@davidshannon4854]

Couldn't agree more. For some,(me included) this vehicle is a fantastic tourer. I haven't seen enough footage to condemn it's off road ability.

[@RustyCandyAdventures]

Thanks for the video. This is the way I am going. Simple bcdc charger. 240 inverter 120 battery lithium . 180 degree awning with walls, arb double swag with camp stretcher no center bar. Thus gives me cover for swag and living area and lighter. I got the same ensuite tent. No water heater. Go bag, got s/s bucket. I have fuel containers and water tank. Got fire stand. Got removable wok dual cooker. So to cook on park bench. Now I have a cheap old van. Going to go to base. The bottle that I use wok cooker is spare for van. 120 lithium in van. Look at seek adventure removable panel bracket that looks max tracks. And more. Giving a tourer with van, leave van, simple camping out fit. I hope this make sense. It's my ideas and thanks for yours. Russell sorry, the base is going to be a dmax. Simple light

[@Michael_Mears]

Sounds like a top set up. Nice and simple, with everything you need.

[@fraserson1]

I love how you've done 4 trips in a car that's worth probably 200k, and you're like nah I think I'll do something different 😂 I think it's safe to say you'll never build a vehicle you're completely happy with but it's fun for all of us to watch you do it!

[@capt.stubing5604]

I agree your Troopy was as good as it gets without sacrificing too much capability. Carry a really good ground tent for longer stays and bad weather. Or tow something, but we all know how much you like that.

[@happydays1470]

Get more legs on your canopy and they will stop each other from lifting. Also there are tilt fridge trays available now which do not weigh much. But the front opening fridge is perfect! Great rig ✌️😃

[@mablizza]

one thing I've learned from 4WD247 is that you should not snatch/pull a vehicle using reverse because gears are not meant to take stress in reverse, and things are more liable to break. Good thing nothing happened in that clip you showed in this video :) love your channel

[@braydenhjort6736]

Andrew, feel sorry for you with so many negative comments. Think most comes down to jealousy that most cannot afford to do builds like this. Personally I'm excited because selling one vehicle means another build series is just around the corner and I love the build series. So great to see different ideas and your thought process when doing a build. After 15 odd builds I'm sure you know something so worth people listening. Would love to see something other than a LandCruiser 70 series at this point though, there's just so many on the internet and I always love to see and be a little bit different. Understand completely what you mean, I'm in the same boat as you because I love off-road driving but know that many of the spots I want to go are a long way away so the touring aspect of any of my 4x4s is really important as well. Interested to see which direction you go this time to find the balance. I'm actually seriously thinking about a new defender, 2 things I must say. I was never a fan of the old defender so I'm not offended in any way by the use of the name. Secondly I do not plan on extreme remote touring and being a current disco 3 owner know quite a lot about how to handle deal with electronics, definitely not the end of the world as there are ways around issues with the right tools and a young tech savvy mind. Wish you the best in the new build. Can't wait for the video explaining your choice of vehicle.

[@benkittle3579]

Hi mate, great video being honest with all of your decisions not many can do the same. I run a business and one of our arms is tray and canopy manufacturing and we are always learning more as we build. We recently finished a permanent canopy build on a dual cab cruiser and used Enerdrive electric system and we where very happy with it. Have you had a look at their sinmarine unit, very intuitive touch screen display with tank, voltage, fuel levels, current in / out, temps etc. maybe have a look at it might be right what your looking for.

[@hors.santiers]

Excellent analysis ! I can fully share your conclusion and that’s why I own both hilux / Gazell as off-roader and a Sprinter Indepemdent Independent as Tourer - and Im fully happy with both ! Looking forward part 2! Merry Christmas 🎄

[@Cusk0]

The entire value of my setup is well under $7,000 :|

[@elliottstreamliner]

I love watching these builds. They are so thorough and interesting at the same time. I think he needs two rigs one more touring based for him and his wife and one more adventure series for getting out into the bush more. I'm sure a great compromising rig could be built using the model of "Cheap, Correct, Quick - you get to pick two" but that has issues of its own.

[@stevenrawlinson5828]

Thank you Andrew was glued to the screen from start to finish.. love you honesty so much. I full understanding what you are saying about best of both worlds..I 4×4 in the high country of Victoria all the time and I have made sacrifices form certain comfort to ability . But over many years I think I have found the line between both ..still learning every day though.. love you content.

[@critterfifis7361]

I value your educated opinion. The people that that threat, well they have have lost more than they wanted to loose. Please dont stop saying your opinion. it's consumer knowledge. Cheers