Whats with these American trucks in Australia? So many at the Melbourne 4x4 show.

[@CsvAu]

Thank you for your detailed and thoughtful review of our Capital Special Vehicles Wheelchair Accessible 4X4 UTE! Your insights are incredibly valuable to everyone, and we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

[@Haveacrack76]

You guys have done such a good job. Really well done

[@TyFenwick]

Been touring in my F250 for 7-8 years now mate and it’s set up practically. The market is just all about who’s “bigger”now for some stupid reason 😅 American trucks are so nice to tour in, I love mine. Most of them truck are only for the show “wow” factor, no one uses them practically daily.

[@Haveacrack76]

Exactly mate. I have actually watched your stuff for ages. I like how yours is setup. Its a good setup.

[@andrewcox710]

Mate, just stumbled across this. Ex gunny and great to see veterans providing realistic advice and content. We sold up in Nagambie in 22 and had a 20ft, 3.7t van to travel full time for 12 months looking for a new home. We chose not to use the GVM upgraded GU3 (TD42) and bought a 17 Ram 2500 with 2" lift and 35's. Over 10,000km towing it averaged 21l/100km. Empty it ran 11l/100km! I looked at Y62, 200, 300, 79 and 6bt patrols.... Nothing compares to the 2500 for out of the box features, ability and comfort. And let's not talk about fuel economy! Down sides - they're obnoxiously hard to get parts for! They are hard, but not impossible to park in town, in a single park! They are extremely expensive to insure ($8k/yr) as they are classed as luxury imported. We couldn't fit down 3 driveways of places we looked at buying as we didn't fit.... They have their place (especially when towing 8m gooseneck trailers). But most people these days buy them, lift them and kit them out to soothe their ego, be the cool kid on Fraser, or insta-fame at inskip.... Nothing more.

[@Haveacrack76]

Holy shit! 8K!!! thats crazy mate. I knew about the parts, but bloody hell. Insurance is nuts. I had no idea. Thanks mate

[@Mowk86]

I'm a Canadian living in Canada. I spend much of my time outdoors. While I do love a big ol' American truck. I appreciate them for their capabilities when hauling heavy weight or cruising comfortably on the highway. Most of our North American roads can handle vehicles of this size. That being said.. I completely agree with the sentiment regarding off-roading. When trucks get bigger and heavier, the tires get bigger and heavier. And there's plenty of power to turn those tires off-road. There are countless trails that get ruined by high horsepower-big tired vehicles. While our huge trucks likely don't cause the majority of our trail damage.. They'll start to over there if these trucks try to go on the same tracks as the landcruisers, prados, pajeros etc. What was simply a benign mud puddle or clay crossing turns into an impassable warzone. I appreciate the limit the Australian government places on vehicle tire sizes (2 inches over stock or whatever it is.) This keeps many tracks in roughly the same condition. A 35 in tire can only dig so deep. Add a 40 inch tire, a loaded up truck and 4 million NM of torque... The trails will get ruined. Or "tracks" as you lot say!

[@Haveacrack76]

100% mate. Totally agree

[@Mowk86]

@@Haveacrack76 I'm just not a fan of having to pay a shop to "sign off" on my suspension kit etc.

[@andymartinez767]

To me its not them out in the country, its when they are driving in town on our narrow streets and then parking. One clown has one in Richmond and he takes up 4 parking spots to park this bloody behemoth. Totally stupid for towns

[@Haveacrack76]

Yeah I hadnt thought of that side of things. Good points though

[@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx888]

😢

[@M1n1Mouse]

They are so expensive if I bought it for towing I probably would drive it around town too, blame the land developers making roads smaller and blocks smaller than 20 years ago.

[@robertwilson1827]

And not suitable for the Aussie bush!?😅😅😅

[@DTGTDetectingTheGoldenTriangle]

Been daily driving my 2004 7.3 f250 for 15 years and over 390,000 klms. Not one brake down, 60% on rough dirt roads. It's tuned up to 480hp and runs 15l per 100ks on the hiway with 35s ( all I drive is open roads only 1500 people live in my town so no city driving at all) I'm a ex mechanic so I keep up with maintenance regularly change things before problems happen and have no parts supply issues it's 5-10 working days for anything from the USA. I'm now a prospector and get into extremely remote locations daily with it (gold isn't close to main roads) scrub bars and bull bar makes it easy. Just my impression for my situation and It's perfect.

[@Haveacrack76]

Great comment mate. Thanks

[@MotoWot]

Lol. I used to go prospecting in my GU Patrol, but found it's size to be too limiting, so I bought a SWB Suzuki Vitara. The Suzuki is much better for going places where there are zero tracks, between trees etc.. It is also much less likely to break through the crust on a clay pan or salt lake. Yes, I have towed detector coils on salt lakes with it. The key to discovering new patches is to cover a lot of ground. If you think you can cover a lot of ground in your F truck you are kidding yourself. The Suzuki is better than taking a quad bike, because all my gear is with me all the time, I never have to return to a base camp.

[@DTGTDetectingTheGoldenTriangle]

@MotoWot I agree with you on the light weight and size side, but the 400 plus klm around trip to the gold fields 2 times a week on dirt roads hitting an average of 2-5 roos a trip. I don't think the suzuki would handle it, plus I can carry 2000kmls range in fuel 4 detectors, fridge a freezer and all tools to fix almost any problem that could arrive, camping gear 150l of water ect ect ect list goes on. Also I'm 6 foot 3 need some leg room (that's the reason I upgraded the land cruiser ute I was using for the same job)

[@DTGTDetectingTheGoldenTriangle]

@MotoWot also a full size quad fits in the tub 👌

[@MotoWot]

@@DTGTDetectingTheGoldenTriangle Somehow the Suzuki has handled it since 2016. A typical trip for me is up to 5 nights away from somewhere I can re-supply (e.g. Laverton). If there was a better vehicle for my needs I would buy it. As for needing 2000l of fuel and 4 detectors, that is rubbish.

[@explore_off_road]

First off, that wheel chair rig was spectacular! I too don't know anyone in a wheel chair, but still thought that was a great idea. ... "Big American Trucks" seems to be a hot topic down your way these days. That's why, up here in North America, Jeeps are pretty much the way to go and have taken over. There are others starting to make their way into our market, but Jeeps are everywhere. Like you said, they wouldn't be able to go most places we go in our Jeeps. I say to my wife, when we have to turn around, "imagine if we had a full sized truck! We wouldn't be able to turn around." Here in Canada we have a lot of trees ... Why we don't have trailers either. Gets pretty tight up here. Not many wide open spaces. But the "big American Trucks", they do look cool... "Sensational" ... But that's the only reason. Most are just "Pavement Princesses." And most here, are used to trailer their offroader to a trail.

[@Kazmo_adventures]

Nothing is as comfortable as an American truck and has the power to tow. The safety these things have is amazing. Exhaust brakes, cameras If anyone is towing over 3.5 t with a Toyota it can’t be legal with weights. We live full time on the road and have a 2500chev. Yeah it can’t go everywhere a Toyota can go but it can safely tow more than a Toyota. This are my thoughts.

[@Haveacrack76]

Towing is no issue, they have their place I think

[@anthony-1357]

They buy them because they can afford them and they suit their needs. Many people think a 70 series is not practical with all its known issues. I wouldn’t drive a 70 series a US truck, or a Ferrari, but can appreciate them all.

[@Haveacrack76]

The regular ones yes, absolutely get that. It's the massive lifts that I don't get. That doesn't suit anybodies needs. Totally impractical.

[@anthony-1357]

@@Haveacrack76 people who love to spend the day stuck in a big hole. Not my cup of tea…

[@Werkar27]

Totally agree with you mate. American trucks are really impractical here and have reliability and supply chain issues. If anyone disagrees, I know a guy who flooded his F350 and is still waiting to get it fixed, two years later. All of that because he couldn't get a snorkel for his truck. That's not happening with a Toyota.

[@antem77]

Yeah, lapping the island, it's crazy, they haven't done any updates lately, I'd be pissed

[@Haveacrack76]

100%. I will always find parts for the Cruiser.

[@milsy6936]

The fact that he flooded a beautiful American truck, needs his head read ffsake

[@jamesaustralian9829]

Keep a Toyota maintained well, and it will last for decades to come.

[@YarisWRC2]

two years waiting for a snorkel? bull shit, he must be an idiot

[@stolzhammer3239]

First time viewer and new subscriber. Great video

[@Haveacrack76]

Welcome aboard!

[@jamesh7395]

Regarding the F-trucks, I agree they don't make sense to a lot of us (fellow 76 owner :)) - but in essence: 1) They look cool 2) They tow well 3) They're comfortable with all the mod cons. If that's what you're looking for, they fit the bill pretty well.

[@Haveacrack76]

I agree mate. For towing I think they would be great.

[@bigdogbuilds]

Yeah the American Trucks are taking over

[@Haveacrack76]

They are growing in numbers for sure

[@GroundLevelQLD]

Everyone’s like ‘Bloody yank trucks!’ and they need to tow and then they drive a tuned Duramax/Cummins (even an old LBZ) and then it all makes sense ha

[@triggaJ11]

You touched on it a few times! Fascination….. It’s exactly the same reason you fell in love with and still love the Ford Bronco…… It’s American, It’s big and mostly it’s Different!!!!

[@Haveacrack76]

Im talking about the ones that are all jacked up so tall that its impractical. I get the towing aspect and how nice they look. The 70s Bronco is pretty normal in size. They are not big at all.

[@iansaunders8694]

I have tried just about everything. My wife and I are touring full-time in 2 Suzuki Sierras. I tow the caravan and she tows the tinny. We love our set up now.

[@Haveacrack76]

Wow, thats interesting. Thanks mate

[@shanedwyer4881]

I agree with the comments about huge increases in lifting the suspension in any big truck. There’s one bloke on you tube who can’t see into the draws in his canopy on a raised US truck. The centre of gravity has also been raised to make it easier to roll over. If you need a big truck to tow a big load fair enough but leave the lift out of it.

[@Haveacrack76]

Exactly!

[@steveformosa5191]

Very well spoken took the words right out of my mouth

[@Haveacrack76]

Cheers mate

[@garynew9637]

Mate bought a Ram, very luxurious inside.

[@AllanPyne]

Ive got a ram 1500 and i love it,dont have any trouble parking it,does the job pulling 4.5t off road caravan not problem, there's horses for courses, dont worry the outback tracks will get wider to accommodate these great trucks in time. The cost,well 40+k to convert them,without that every one would have one. 13:47

[@Haveacrack76]

Cheers mate

[@GoneTroppo]

Often pondered the same thing. Totally agree. Great ep. 👍

[@Haveacrack76]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@ddridan]

Last year I looked at the American trucks as a tourer, ended up with a 2012 76 series and with the left over budget took it straight to JMACX. We just finished a trip to the Cape and I absolutely punished the 76 and had zero issues. I'm sure the American trucks are just as reliable, but I'm happy in my decision. I think 100% of the big trucks especially at the shows are marketing. Something to show off the 400Ah of lithium, massive GVMs and big lifts and tyres. Yes they're cool, but a lot of the channels that got a lot of people into touring have become unrelatable when they start touring in $300k vehicles.

[@Haveacrack76]

I actually did talk about this when I recorded the video about other channels, I took a fair bit out as I thought it seemed a bit too confrontational. Unfortunately, they are, as you say, unrelatable now.

[@grunkalunka3449]

It all about freedom of choice fellas. Bottom line is, you dont have to like them.

[@dirtbikeadv]

@@grunkalunka3449 That is very true not my cup of tea but U are spot on each to their own 👍

[@Haveacrack76]

100% its a choice. Im not knocking them, I just dont understand the massive raised ones with the camp setup.

[@CommissionerManu]

What about the increased danger they are to other drivers and pedestrians? Doesn’t that encroach in their freedoms?

[@grunkalunka3449]

@@CommissionerManu with that school of thought, all vehicles should be taken off the road.

[@Ragnar6000]

@@CommissionerManu well i hope you say the same about a 70 series dual cab Toyota cos they are bigger!

[@N70Luxx]

The ones jacked with every Accessory under the sun is to give the materialistic people something to want. And people with big back pockets will happily spend the 300-500k on it. That’s good for business. Helping grow these business owners who offer these packages great wealth. I think that’s really all it comes down to. We are turning into America where bigger is better in all situations.

[@joshcoombs4483]

We have the Goldfields 15HFX and have done our lap in late 2023. After 5 vans in 6 six years of varying styles and makes the current one is a game changer. So easily accessible to all the great spots within striking distance of town.

[@Haveacrack76]

Thats a nice looking camper mate.

[@ailo4x4]

Hey there, American 25 year expat in the UK, retired military, desert racer, international overlander here. Yes, you are completely right. The big F350, Ram, et. al., trucks are fantastic for heavy work, towing, etc. When they are jacked up to fit 40" tires they are completely impractical for everything and anything. The point of those type of 'Yank Tank' trucks (as all y'all call them!) at those shows is simply to draw attention. They are rolling billboards. Have a look at videos of the US SEMA shows and you'll see what I mean. I owned a first year of production Hummer H1 (exactly the same as a Humvee but 12v and a much nicer interior) here in the UK for many years. Completely impractical here but it was fantastic in the Sahara where I rally raced it. I guess the bottom is "horses for courses". Those crazy arsed jacked up monstrosities are for advertising or compensating for something. Big trucks have their purposes and when used for what they are built for, amazing. Cheers from over here, brother!

[@Haveacrack76]

Best reply I think mate. These ones are billboards. Very expensive billboards.

[@gregdean8441]

Oh those new landcruisers are so so cheap now aren't they !

[@Haveacrack76]

@@gregdean8441 nope. Horrendously expensive

[@YarisWRC2]

the trucks aren't big, the UK is small

[@TwoCrabsAdventures]

Just discovered your channel, love it. I agree with you on some of these builds, however I have made the shift to a Chev 1500ZR2 from a 79. Purely because we needed more size for my growing family. Its chalk and cheese in terms of towing. The 450 tourers and stuff though.. Don't know the purpose.

[@Haveacrack76]

Cheers mate. Makes good sense what you have done

[@bigdogbuilds]

Nice truck in your Thumbnail mate! We built that one 2 years ago.

[@Haveacrack76]

That's cool! I quite like that one. Cheers mate

[@timbucktoonotforyou.8442]

It seems that nearly every Ram driver in Australia has the inability to keep to left hand side of the road forcing incoming traffic to move aside. It's weird because the average bus or semi trailer driver can usually stay in their lane without any problem. Not sure if it it's a sense of entitlement or just crap driving skills.

[@Haveacrack76]

Not sure mate. I havent seen that to be honest.

[@elizabethlouisedurdin4666]

My 95yr old pa use to call them ....Blunderbuss 😅

[@stendecstretcher5678]

Both

[@robwainwright5387]

In South Africa those F250' require the same category driver's license as a 4 - 8 ton truck. They also are required to have a road worthy test every year. The " normal " trucks ie Land cruiser, Hilux, Ford ranger, Nissan Navara etc can be driven with a light vehicle license and do not have to undergo a road worthy test every year. Resulting in they didn't sell well here and have pretty much disappeared off the roads.

[@angeloudy]

I struggle to find a genuine five seater 4wd. All medium dual cab UTEs have very limited space in the 2nd row. I won't get an American truck either due to the issues you have mentioned.

[@Haveacrack76]

What about the 300 series? I would have thought (but dont actually know for sure) the wagons would be better suited.

[@angeloudy]

@@Haveacrack76 I drive a Prado now. The 300 series is only slightly better. The most spacious wagon is Y62, but not my cup of tea. Also I prefer a UTE. The other problem with most dual cab UTEs is they all have such big overhangs, probably because they were initially single cabs and manufacturers just squeezed one cab in. while US truck all have good weight distribution design. They are lovely trucks, just not practical here. Legality issues as well, the entry level ones F-150, have very limited payload, and if you get the heavy duty ones like F250, you'll need a truck license and follow truck speed limits.

[@SingaporeSling1]

Vibing the Simpsons Comic Book Guy....good roundup.

[@Haveacrack76]

Havent heard that one before. Thanks, I think ;)

[@NasTimeAdventures]

IMO, there is a place and time for massive rigs but many are becoming show ponies. I put a lot of thought into building my rig to be the most practical it could be. That is what 's most important in a rig you build for adventure. But that is my adventure. PS/ Great meeting you at the show. We need to go camping. 😀

[@Haveacrack76]

I think from some of the comments here, these particular ones ore probably billboards for those businesses. Totally impractical. Looking forward to it mate.

[@JaimeBird-n8m]

They are great for towing.hold value and personal choice

[@Haveacrack76]

Ahh the holding value I didnt know. Thanks mate

[@graveltravelcanada]

I drive an F series. The luxurious, spacious and comfortable interior is a huge factor. Not sure I could go back to being crammed into a narrow utilitarian vehicle again. You get used to the size quickly, you'd be surprised if you drove one for a month. To each their own. Do whatever makes you smile

[@Dan-rg7jj]

Nah mate see my main comment about the people who love them and hate them. Everyone has forgot there's another side to this. I bring up the main issues that no one in Australia has thought of.

[@leithraymant8007]

Valid point here mate. Has a 79 interior changed in the last 135 years?!

[@interceptor7905]

Lol but true

[@Louie2309]

@@graveltravelcanada my mum drove dads F150 longed as the daily driver into her 70’s. once you have driven one a long distance you understand what they are all about. A long distance cruiser with heaps of power and comfort. None of the Japanese vehicle can compare, but they shouldn’t be compared as they are two very different vehicles . None of the Japanese trucks can offer the interior space and anyone that has anyone in the backseat of a Jap dual cab will know, they are really only suitable for kids under 12.

[@Haveacrack76]

I thought the back seat of a 70 series was just for storage? ;)

[@galahad6001]

You raise a real issue with these trucks ...and people towing vans ... Good work

[@Haveacrack76]

wasnt really meant to be the case, but it sure has taken off.

[@deanoxwell3392]

Hi, I had a 2000 GU patrol for years and loved it. I modified it to run a 6.6 Duramax etc. Eventually I found it was time to upgrade so that I could build a more practical vehicle for my needs. Luckily, in 2020 I bought a 2015 Chev Silverado 2500HD from my uncle for $100K and proceeded to turn it into a camper with an aluminium canopy and sleeping area similar to a rooftop tent but accessed from inside the canopy (so I didn't have to climb up a big ladder). I have taken the truck everywhere that I have taken my Nissan Patrol. It's only 2m wide which is not that much wider than my Patrol or a LC. I do a lot of prospecting in the West and get out to some really gnarly and out of the way country. I chose to increase my tyre size to 35" (for diff ground clearance) from the original 33" and avoided a lift. I agree that the lift was really only for pose value or bigger wheels (= worse fuel economy and driveability). Take a look around though and it is quickly noticeable that BIG lifts and wheels are as common as spotlights on Patrols, Landcruisers, Hilux's, Rangers and so on as well. I have modified my power train a bit and get nearly 450hp at the rear wheels and 1400Nm torque. When travelling without towing I regularly get 13.5 L/100kms to 14.5 L/100kms (average over all driving conditions). My rig, fully loaded with liquids etc. - 330L diesel and 200L water - weighs in a bit over 5T (heavy by comparison I know). When towing my trailer set up with Suzuki Jimny (for prospecting) which weighs in at 2300kg all up I average between 15.0 L/100kms and 16.0 L/100kms as above. When I need to overtake a road train or two, I just sink my foot and go. The comfort and driveability of the big girl craps all over my Patrol. The power and fuel economy leaves my Patrol for dead as well. I get out after a 1000km drive and feel ok, ready for another day of driving. I have heated and airconditioned seats, heated steering wheel and dual zone climate control. Comfort plus! My rig cost me about $190K all in. Start modifying the more common fourbies in Australia and factor in the original cost and find out how much they really cost! I understand that some people may not get why people like myself chose the path I did and that's quite alright - each to their own, but before discarding the notion altogether, maybe closer investigation and more objective summaries could be helpful. I didn't intend my comments to be anything other than an insight to a perspective from the other side of the fence - so to speak. The MOST important thing is to go out and enjoy this big beautiful country of ours, be respectful to each other and lend a helping hand when a fellow adventurer needs it.

[@Haveacrack76]

Love this comment mate. It sounds like a sensible setup. I would love to see it. I have zero doubt about the towing and comfort. I dont understand the massive mods that are done to those at the show.

[@kennethprocak5176]

When few first Pajero were introduced they were brilliant. When travel was a couple boxes of stuff and a tent, few boxes of matches, esky, axe and gun. All you needed. Defender were out of most peoples reach.

[@Haveacrack76]

Oh it was so simple. But things change. Things change with every aspect of life.

[@WalterKramer-bi7tj]

Two things come to mind with these trucks where can you park them and good luck in underground parking

[@Haveacrack76]

Parking would be a pain

[@phalanx3803]

nah parking is just a pain in general damn Camry barley fits in parking spaces now

[@whynot0969]

Yes they are big!! But I’ve driven one, and the are beautiful to drive 👌

[@Haveacrack76]

They would have to be.

[@whynot0969]

@@Haveacrack76 but I love and I’ll take my 78 any day mate 😉😎

[@allanpower8041]

Have just dicoveted your channel and subscribed. What you say makes good sense.

[@Haveacrack76]

Welcome aboard!

[@RogerHammond]

We had a chuckle yesterday driving home down our local street, stuck behind one of these massive trucks and the guy clearly was having trouble navigating between the parked cars, and up the top of the street they are parking these beasts on BOTH sides of the road and it's pretty squeezy getting our car through and it's adding precious seconds if a firetruck or ambulance needs to get to their destination.

[@michaelbrooks2671]

Good to see you at the show Shane - looking forward to your reviews. Another good ep….Your comments about licensing is relevant. Here’s an observation - Any truck over 4495kg needs an endorsed licence.. some of those rigs with big caravans weight twice that weight - on a basic licence.

[@Haveacrack76]

I think so. Especially when some folks have towed nothing bigger than a 4x6 box trailer.

[@M1n1Mouse]

I think any one towing a van that weighs over the tare of their vehicle should be forced to go do a driving course this will teach them how to deal with the tail controlling vehicle even if they are compliant. Pat 2 any one towing a vehicle and van waighing in total more than 4495kg to get a mr license and towing course.

[@wazzamoore3752]

I am glad i wasnt the only one thinking that

[@Haveacrack76]

Read the comments, loads of people think that ;)

[@thenameiwantedwastaken]

The big truck thing is simply a symptom of caravans being too big to be (safely) towed by most Aus vehicles without a lot of modification. I do agree that people should have to sit a special licence if they plan to drive and tow something with a combined vehicle mass over 6 tonnes, at least prove you can reverse the truck and caravan you plan to drive BEFORE you show up to the tourist park

[@Haveacrack76]

Thats something I hadn't thought of. Caravan sizes have grown for sure. Interesting point.

[@CHOPSZOOKER]

Government makes it so you need to tow legally = bigger vehicle . Watch these get hit by taxes soon for size, efficiency and pollution.

[@spannaspinna]

What is an Australian vehicle ? They don’t exist

[@Hazardbone]

I just watched the explore life they did the tele track with 3 big American trucks and one 79 series landcruiser. The 3 big trucks kept getting stuck because they were too big for the track.

[@Haveacrack76]

Exactly

[@oudonbail]

I agree on the trailer training. For how strict the laws are on vehicles its amazing people can just strap on 3.5tons and head off on their journey, but then demand people get a specialised license to drive a single axle truck weighing the same or less than the caravan and vehicle

[@Haveacrack76]

Not sure what the requirement are, if any. Ill have to look into it more.

[@eds4wdcamping]

Great video, as you were talking about the gold field camper. I've got precisely the same one, but it was a different brand from a lumberjack called a she-oak. It is an absolute ripper pod/teardrop Camper, and it's absolutely perfect for myself. Keep up the good work. See you in the next video.

[@Haveacrack76]

Oh really? Thats interesting Ed. I knew you had the Lumberjack one. Its one that I was looking at. I didnt realise they were the same.

[@mohvanwah]

I’m 198cms tall with a tall (ish) wife and 3 tall (ish) kids. I was recently set on buying a new troopy, but then we test drove one. I couldn’t even get my right hand down the right side of the steering wheel cause my knee was in the way whilst my right foot was on the accelerator. The family were squished and uncomfortable too. Plus the 4cyl auto was not enjoyable. Then we tried a 300 series and loved it. Then we tried a Ram 1500 Bighorn and loved it even more plus it was $110k drive away and is ready to tow our big van straight out of the box, where as the 300 series would’ve required another $10-15k on top of the more expensive purchase price. I got 5 years warranty on the Ram which satisfied any reliability concerns (which the 300 series has too). I’m about a month in and I’m loving the Ram. But yeah the massively lifted yank tanks are all for show.

[@Haveacrack76]

That all makes good sense mate.

[@richardzedman1160]

well there is an over supply in the us sales have slowed So there proubly seeing if they can dump a few thousand of them here

[@Haveacrack76]

Thats interesting. I hadnt thought of that. That could well be the case.

[@borislevkovich5755]

I was referring to the 1500 rams and silverados which are more common

[@Haveacrack76]

Cheers mate

[@Marineboy67]

Hey Man if your haven't already ordered a Victron Shunt they are currently $125.10 with free freight at Springers Solar for members, no cost to join. I get heaps of stuff from them and find them great especially when they do their sales. If you get one hit me up for settings assuming your running a Lifepo4 lithium battery.

[@glenndarragh4417]

I've also bought lots of Victron stuff plus cable, lugs fuses from Springers - highly recommend them 👍

[@Haveacrack76]

Thanks mate. I did look there, but it looked like they only have bundles. Appreciate it

[@davebarns1]

Yerp, I totally agree! I think it’s a bit of ‘look at me’ thing going on there

[@Haveacrack76]

Possibly

[@martinscrapp7166]

Each to their own I guess. Personally, I think they're awesome - will never own one as I can't afford it these days, though I am blessed to own a big block '69 Vette! 😃😃😃😃

[@Haveacrack76]

Oh nice. Old school muscle!

[@MKMTA]

100% agree about the big ass trucks.

[@Haveacrack76]

Those ones were massive

[@Brad.whatthe]

One thing that puts me off the big jiggers (apart from the bucks) is getting stuck on soft or steep tracks, not many other 4wd can get you out you just weigh too much

[@Haveacrack76]

Damn, never thought of that. Another good point

[@gavinramsay539]

I've got a patrol and some of the tracks we've done. Have done some nice pin stripping. So these things just would not fit.

[@Haveacrack76]

Agree mate.

[@troyd-motorsport9933]

I absolutely love the look of them but agree with the practicality of them. However, the mid sized US pick ups are about the same price or cheaper than a land cruiser, way more features and comfort and if you dont jack it up with 5 or 6inch lifts, they are great for bringing along everything including the kitchen sink. Look at the new F150, $105-135k or ram 1500 $130k, silverado $140k, thats all in the Sahara price range but you have a ute bed. I develop accessories and parts for them in my side business and they are a pain in the ass to climb into the back of when they have a 4inch and above lift, but in fairness, most of the ones at the show had liquid shocks, so you could drop it down to near standard when parked. which makes sense.

[@Haveacrack76]

Really? I had no idea about them lowering. I spoke with a few people there about the climb in and nobody said anything about that. Very interesting thanks mate

[@troyd-motorsport9933]

@@Haveacrack76 no worries, sorry it's liquidsprings (not shocks) check it out online, they are pretty good (expensive though). Also in regards to the width, they are similar to the gladiator, rangers Hilux etc.. for example I just loaded a rear seat storage box for a 2500 in the back seat of my jeep gladiator.

[@Wilbargosh]

I parked my Isuzu NPR 45/155 medium wheel base truck beside a RAM the other day. We were both about 6m long and didn’t fit in a standard car park. My truck has a GVM of 4.5t and cost $70k. The RAM is double the price and has less capacity for trade use….The RAM offers comfort, power, prestige, image of success and dominance….I own my Isuzu truck and every day it’s making money to pay the bills. I need tools not toys

[@Haveacrack76]

Good points mate. Do tradies use them? I havent seen that. Most tradies (where I am) use vans or duel cab utes like Isuzu or Fords

[@jamesaustralian9829]

And with the Isuzu you can forklift a caravan onto the back of it easilly, a friend does that in school holidays to travel with his wife and kids

[@mohvanwah]

Can your Isuzu carry 5-6 people? Is it 4wd? $70k new? Don’t think so…

[@M1n1Mouse]

We had the 4x4 mitsubishi canter we took off every weekend and holidays in it. It all came down to tyre pressure on soft sand or corrugation. We did soften the suspension though 2005 it had hard suspension for heavy loads.

[@M1n1Mouse]

Our motorhome 4x4 mitsubishi canter truck was licensed to carry 6 people so clearly depends on set up. Mor actually that the American brands.

[@brentonl2631]

Agree with your analysis on these trucks, I love the look of them but the total weight with a massive van and to manoeuvre these are frightening. Your not missing a thing we've done all of Tassie all the Vic High country and Blue Mountains in a new Paj Sport Exceed and a new 16.67.5 Jayco Journey with out any hiccup. Bet the Yank tank would double my fuel cost going to the same destinations.

[@Haveacrack76]

I met a guy on a trip up near Wagga Wagga towing a massive van and I think it was a RAM. He reported the fuel economy to be really good. I think it was around 15l per 100k.

[@M1n1Mouse]

I have a friend that tows a heavy van out west he gets better fuel economy with his ram. Than he ever got with his old Landcruiser.

[@PhilipShand]

Whenever I see one of these behemoths a question springs to mind.....,..WHY ? I live in Port Macquarie & there are 2 currently seen in the main centre of town. They take 1.5 parking spots when parrallel parking or an entire spot in the central parking area with no space between the vehicles either side......none. God help you if one pulls up between you & another vehicle. One of them spent 25 minutes endlessly searching for a spot & ended up parking on a disabled spot without a permit. What a wonderful citizen. A pox on all of them.

[@Haveacrack76]

Im lucky enough not to see any of that. Small country town, this isnt an issue

[@Grâce-n1d4x]

Been to US quite a lot, those massive truck works there, but too impractical in Australia. Also Big body, tiny wheels looks ugly.

[@Haveacrack76]

100% agree

[@Justin-hb6cg]

Good for drawing attention to yourself and not much else.

[@Haveacrack76]

Good for towing too I imagine

[@Justin-hb6cg]

@@Haveacrack76 Great for towing huge loads - overkill for what most people tow.

[@LS1Cobra]

Having owned a long wheel base 4x4 F100 back in the 90's they are just not practical for in town. Difficult to park and just too big for our Aussie roads. Not great off road as it was so much wider than the typical tracks so one wheel was in the rut and one on the side. I also spent time working in the US and their roads and parking spaces are much bigger than ours.

[@Haveacrack76]

I agree mate. Well said

[@charlespomfret7207]

Top of the heap in utility sports unexplained fires are a matter for the courts canyonero

[@Haveacrack76]

Its now playing in my head

[@filthyoffroadadventures]

Agree the big American trucks are not for me. I do understand why some love them and I think some look awesome but not for us as we like going and doing hard tracks that they just don’t fit. Will be interesting to see if the trend continues or people come back to more traditional sized rigs.

[@Haveacrack76]

Well at the moment, I dont know anybody that has enough money to pay rent or groceries. So I dont know anybody that could afford one.

[@filthyoffroadadventures]

@@Haveacrack76 yes things are tough at the moment but somehow keep seeing more and more on the road and seems to a new KZbinrs each week with one LOL.

[@coreydark8795]

LMAFO should have gotten the Garmin which has Hema maps. 3 people say it's better and they've brought it out of their own money. That's 4xoverland, ronniedale and fire too fork

[@Haveacrack76]

Time will tell mate. Hoping the new model is better. So far so good.

[@ryanussher6455]

That small/light camper trailer looks sick for a 1.5L Jimny, but I don't think my 1.3L would handle it, struggles going up hill on a highway as it is.

[@Haveacrack76]

Man that would be painful where i live. Lots of long 100kph roads.

[@loutishmedia381]

A mate of mine has been towing everything for years horse floats car trailers you name it all with what has been available to Australia's for ever he recently bought the dodge ram warlock and said the difference in towing is night and day and its worth its weight in gold for safety reasons power room inside the cab said honestly if you think its excessive at least jump in a mates for a fishing trip or tow something somewhere and tell me i am wrong

[@loutishmedia381]

I will not be buying one as I don't intend on caravan trips any time soon but I do own a 2023 mux 4x4 which is amazing on fuel and just value for money I took it out to broken Hill white cliffs camrons corner and it just ate it all up I love it so much I got home sold my tonner and bought a dmax space cab 4x4 as well for smaller trips with out the whole family and to not beat on the mux

[@Haveacrack76]

I have zero doubt about the towing. I was clear about that in the video. I think the massive lifts etc make them impractical and still cant understand why they do it.

[@markyoung2157]

yes our tracks are to narrow plus their not really built for hard off road their all got IFS

[@Haveacrack76]

Yep, but they still exist.

[@davidmilledge221]

Great for towing but crap out bush 4x4ing in Australia

[@Haveacrack76]

100% agree

[@phalanx3803]

the "trucks" are getting popular because all the other options are getting expensive + upgrades its not that much more to get a RAM. according to the site a 79 is around 95k drive away another 15-20k for GVM thats 110-115k may as well get a 1500 want some thing that's not a base model like a 300 that's 150k another 50k+ for the chop pushing well over 200k Ram 2500 can be had for 172K.

[@jasondovaston945]

The citron are great and easy to use

[@jasondovaston945]

Vitron

[@Haveacrack76]

HAHA I was thinking... WTF? Citron??? I worked it out HAHA thanks mate. I have ordered one now.

[@Wolf4wdadventures.576]

Not very practical for city driving.. but they do suit our large wide land. Awesome towing capacity. Yea we do like Big trucks, I do. BUT there are big parts/distribution issue for sure, I will stick with my Japan designed/Thia built truck.😊

[@Haveacrack76]

Right on. I didnt touch on it in the video, but service issues that I have heard are not good at all. Im sure there are positive experiences too.

[@Bigcountry_littlelegs]

The jacked up yank 4x4s is all just about image and trying to look like how the yanks set there 4x4s up. Treat them like a movie or a stripper dont ask questions, just admire. You will find all those here are trailer queens cause they will get defected. The role they fill in 4x4 is the same role as 4x4 cab over trucks like isuzu, but they do it a lot more comfortably. All the original tracks we use were cut in by horse and buggy or model T fords before being opened up by ww2 jeeps the first time most of them seen anything with a longer then 100in wheel base was when the 109 landrovers came here. Also, a ww2 jeep is smaller in every dimension than a jimny other then width and thats only 100mm

[@Haveacrack76]

HAHAHA movies and strippers. Nice. Good points there mate

[@johnnyclark4548]

Each to their own. I have a Ram 3500 and its way safer towing no matter what the conditions. Believe me the last thing I need to do is compensate for something, not sure what you guys mean by that. I prefer being safe for my benefit and everybody else’s. The comments about the Yank Tanks not build for Australian roads surely dont get out much, there are full interlink trucks driving on the most narrow country roads all over Australia, no complaints there. Big wallets 😂😂😂 you must be joking, a Cruiser with a GVM upgrade cost 100k more than my truck and you still cant tow a 4.5T caravan, and I have way more luxury and comfort and use far less fuel. I do not use my Ram to go shopping I have a very comfy daily driver for that.

[@Haveacrack76]

Each to their own 100%. Thats why I said what I said at the end of the video.

[@steeldragon5867]

@@johnnyclark4548 well said mate, I don't have one but wouldn't mind, enjoy your rig i know plenty of people would love one,don't let the haters get you, cheers 👍

[@bennynortheast1328]

I think the American trucks are things people should be allowed to have, but they’ve gotta accept that getting through tighter tracks will be more of a struggle. As for things such as the table you mentioned, some sort of mechanism to lower the table should have been part of the setup. For me personally, I’ll stick with my old Luxxy and whatever other old live axel rigs I buy in the future.

[@Haveacrack76]

I never see those trucks up in the hills and on tight tracks. Im sure some do though

[@jonathankeith2547]

17 years ago I sold my traded my 2002 Hilux for a 2002 F250, both had around 130,000km but the F250 was worth double what the Hilux was. Incidentally my F250 with a little under 1/2 million kms is still worth nearly what I paid for it 400,000kms and 17 years ago. I had previously owned 3 other hilux’s and loved them, but they were all under powered, light tow capacities and were cramped inside for a family with three children. We bought the F250 because we had the opportunity to buy a family caravan that was to heavy for the Hilux to tow. Since then I have towed that van for approximately 100,000km and done nearly 400,000km in the F250. A few years ago we upgraded our van now the children have all grown up, we now have a 3500kg couples van with 400 litres of water and heaps of space, and we still tow it with the same 2002 F250. I couldn’t go back to the cramped space of a metric 4WD! I don’t take it into tight off road situations, but it is perfect for country roads and gravel tracks, and it tows beautifully at freeway speeds. Towing, cab space and comfort is what American trucks do best, and anywhere that the truck wouldn’t go off road would be already way to tight for the van anyway!

[@Haveacrack76]

I think that is a perfect example of what these should be doing. Its the massive jacked up ones I dont get. They cant tow anything anymore.

[@ianmcclay2237]

G'day mate. That looks like McCutchell bend on the Gunbower, am I correct? Are you local to the area? I am.

[@Haveacrack76]

Yeah mate, I’m in cohuna.

[@1q2w3e60]

I love em! Just knowing everyone has a cry about them puts a smile on my face. Im sure the owners are well aware of the pitfalls of ownership. Pretty boring seeing another white Toyota on the road

[@Haveacrack76]

As long as it make you happy, Im happy :)

[@Linesandhookers]

Mate, if you think the trucks here are big, you need to go to SEMA. There are trucks there that you could walk clean under and not bump your head lol. One thing though, I've got a silverado zr2 and if you look at the measurements, they are not actually that much wider than a standard dual cab. It's about 50mm wider, so they could get in between those trees fine. Also, they come standard with front and rear lockers, lift and big tyres. Also when you questioned the safety issue for towing such a big setup, after owning heaps of dual cabs and towing lots of big boats, I can tell you the American trucks are many times safer. They make towing simple, so there is huge benefit to them. If you havent driven one, you should, then you will understand why people like them.

[@Haveacrack76]

I have zero doubt about the towing. I just dont get the big lifts and 37s to go bush. The width plus length makes them too big for lots of places. I suspect thats why I only ever see them in the VHC at the low campsites. I get the appeal for towing, but not the heavily modded overlanders here in Aus.

[@thommo6331]

Yank trucks are for a purpose. I would luv a 2500 Silverado. I carry 4 big adults weighing around 500 kgs (actually more). My usual load is around 400-500 kgs. Yet alone bars etc. Rego as truck and I am happy

[@Haveacrack76]

There is a purpose, I agree.

[@wasbruce]

I have a y62 which is bigger than most cars but i can still park it in most normal carparks and i can still get down all the track's and i can still see into my fridge without a drop slide. I like the big trucks too but practical?? No. In rural USA where they are the norm roads and carparks are built for vehicles that size. Not here.

[@Haveacrack76]

100% agree mate

[@iainmcintosh2574]

Usual reason to go big is your appendage is small

[@brentonl2631]

Well I'm buying a Jimny with that reasoning.

[@KenOath1234]

hahahaa you beat me to it!

[@KenOath1234]

@@brentonl2631 i'm buying a toy ride on truck

[@Haveacrack76]

I didnt even think this when recording. But I had to chuckle.

[@Haveacrack76]

There is a small camper trailer that I saw would do you then ;)

[@kiho1995]

I think a yank tank with a caravan/toy hauler set-up with a dedicated off road vehicle is probably the best way to go. Legal on the road with the weights and when you want to go off the beaten track you can have a vehicle with 37's and setup togo anywhere and not have to worry about the law as much.

[@Haveacrack76]

Cheers mate.

[@mountainconstructions]

Agreed.... It's for Hero's and Egos Every girl I know loves them though... so there's that. Meet a guy 10 years ago just starting the Simpson Desert crossing in a dual cab F250. We were just finishing it. And considering the stratches and pinstripes we got in small vehicles (LC100 + Ford Rangers) , I'd hate to imagine his F250 after 2 days

[@Haveacrack76]

They would be a bit bigger than pinstripes thats for sure!

[@Βόρειο_Σέλας]

They have their uses such as towing large caravans and that is it. Off road handling and ability, normal size 4WDs are the answer like the majority in Australia.

[@Haveacrack76]

100% agree

[@shanenorwell8580]

Couldn’t agree more and I have 2 Silverado 2500’s but 35’s and standard hight suspension with good quality shocks. These things on a 6.5 inch lift like they all seem to do are bloody useless.

[@Haveacrack76]

Cheers mate, I appreciate that. Thats the point.

[@craigtomkinson2837]

Lovely Ep and chat, I have no dramas with the Ram 2500 and the likes they are way smaller than the 75/155 Isuzu trucks or Unmobs people use,

[@Haveacrack76]

I have no dramas with them either. I just don’t understand why you would jack them up as high as some do.

[@craigtomkinson2837]

@@Haveacrack76 Me either but there money, Id rather my old 80

[@Pomybasterd]

It’s all for the show look at me

[@Haveacrack76]

Yeah I think its more a billboard for those companies.

[@BM-wi9kt]

I would doubt those extra high trucks would even be legal? Unless they are engineered. I have the basic ram wich is standard apart from bull bar. But the ride and quuetness compared to the 76 ect there is no comparison..yes it it is a little wider but drove f100s f350s c20s as a young fella without issue.i feel youve picked on a vehicle done up for advertising purposes not a real world driver. For realy heavy towing id recomend a isuzu or simular tilt tray option with the biggest engine availiable. Least you could make some .money the other 10 months of the year. The new hawkeye would be bigger that the hummer id think. Cheers for the vid

[@Haveacrack76]

Yeah not sure about the legal bit. Another comment says they see these ones on the road near where he works. I think the ones towing make sense. Its those other modified lifted ones that dont make sense. Best I can figure is they are just advertising for those companies.

[@nowhere529]

Just what every red P plater needs.

[@Haveacrack76]

AHAHAHA

[@LiterallyOverTheHillAdventures]

All depends on what part of the US you are using a large truck in. Unless you are on private property it is normally illegal to leave the trails on public land. In the east, large trucks are not as popular as they are out west because eastern trails do tend to be narrow. By the same token, on the mountain pass trails in the Rocky Mountains that are popular, those same large trucks are useless. However, there are thousands upon thousands of miles of trails out west that they do just fine on. I personally have a Jeep Gladiator Rubicon for my camper build (it is built up with a Dobinsons suspension, lots of bells and whistles and the Alu Cab Canopy Camper) along with a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon also built out for camping. For technical trails there are no better vehicles in my opinion than those vehicles. Other than the brand new Inios Grenadier there simply are no vehicles that are solid front and rear axles that have lockers for both front and rear available. Another aspect is that it is not rare to have to travel 1 to 2 thousand miles on interstates and highways to reach the destination we intend to camp and explore. Lots of people in the US build up trucks like these to hunt and fish out of and as Americans, we tend to love and accumulate gear for these endeavors and larger trucks do come in handy then. Also on many trials there are warnings about the need for 35 inch or larger tires for clearance, for many of the trails I have driven on, the street legal sized tires (or tyres) in Australia would not do, you would center out, sized 35 to 40 inch tires are popular here for that reason alone, you are not able to run many trails without a minimum of true 35s and having tried them with 33s, well, it is just plain near impossible.

[@Haveacrack76]

Ahh now this makes good sense to me.

[@ryanadams3858]

It’s a bit funny saying you don’t get the big American trucks , but in the next breath say you’re favourite car as a kid is a Bronco 😂

[@Haveacrack76]

2 points. 1. Im not saying I dont get the trucks. I have zero doubt about the towing. I was clear about that in the video. Its the massive lift I dont get 2. The 70s Bronco that I mentioned is about the same size as the 76 series cruiser. Nowhere near the size of these trucks.

[@socomxx]

Not sure if Australia has the infrastructure for these trucks yet, in America, we have wider roads and bigger parking spots.

[@Haveacrack76]

I tend to agree

[@zeitgeistx5239]

All the people here stereotyping American brands. Nissan and Toyota also make pick up trucks in America and the Toyota Tundra is already in Australia.

[@Haveacrack76]

Its odd. The whole point I was making was about the ones that are so jacked up and impractical. So many people here bagging them all out. They have their place for sure. Didnt know Nissan made one. I do like the tundra

[@zeitgeistx5239]

@@Haveacrack76 The point I was making was that it's not about American car brands but the North American market. Canadians also love their pick up trucks. Our trucks evolved to their massive size because their not for "tradies" but lifestyle vehicles. American car manufacturers got their butts kicked by imports in the sedan market so in the 1990s the SUV and pick up truck markets began to take off and American car manufacturers jumped in head first. They were so profitable that Japanese brands also entered those segments later on. Many Australians are mistaken thinking that these large pick ups are for carrying heavy loads when their seen as semi luxury lifestyle vehicles. Even the Aussie beloved Toyota Hilux has a North American cousin, the Tacoma. But the Tacoma is more of a performance lifestyle truck as it's slightly bigger and has a more powerful engine compared to it's Hilux cousin.

[@davidrayner9832]

There is a dealer in Penrith (Penriff to the locals) that sells several brands, Ram being one. They had an ad in the paper showing a pic of a Ram parked in the visitor's parking area outside the showroom. It was parked neatly between two lines and the caption read "They fit into a normal sized parking space". Yeah, but the spaces either side of it were empty and had there been another Ram (of F or Silverado) there, and the dealer is in the business of selling them so they want everyone in Australia to have one, neither one could open the door. I own a Ford Econoline (van) and it's great, but it's also much wider than a Hiace or I-load or any other van sold in Australia and that has its drawbacks.

[@Haveacrack76]

They should take them to Melbourne. In any shopping centre. No chance. I have a Renault Traffic for our home business. We are thinking about swapping for a Ford transit. The Renault is pretty wide, but service is a bitch.

[@mattobrien1085]

Avoid the transit unless you are shopping brand new, go for a mwb sprinter or a hiace ​@@Haveacrack76

[@sirgregoir]

I love my 2006 2500hd Silverado, I swapped it for a boat, amd pull a 3 tonne caravan with safety and ease. What's with the hate? The world is full of choice.

[@Haveacrack76]

No hate from me. I thought I was pretty clear about my comments. Side note. When I first read your comment, I was thinking. How the hell does he tow a van with a boat???? HAHAHA

[@jamesaustralian9829]

​@@Haveacrack76it's your typical yank tank buyer, lacking in basic literacy skills, along with other departments...

[@MrDmjay]

You should have listened better.

[@St1nky_shoe99]

Oi sir Lancelot listen to the content mate. We’re talking about these big rigs being set up for AUS camping and touring….. nope…. Fail…. They get hung up they get bogged they get mechanical issues….. great for ROAD towing agree…. So suits the boat……. But mate at the end of the day almost anything can tow a boat on the road….. cmon….you know exactly what this video was talking about you just don’t like hearing it…….. @havearack76

[@TheBabyskywalker]

The hate is easy to explain. It’s all about jealousy I drive an 05 F250 7.3 Powerstroke. Absolutely fantastic truck that’s happy to help widen the odd narrow track

[@karlfehlauer]

The yank tanks are for those that are lacking in other areas 🙂

[@Haveacrack76]

Like towing? ;)

[@longway1]

I think the mark up on the after market mods is high in Australia so the 4wd industry are making big $. Don't see to many to remote yet most are in caravan parks.

[@Haveacrack76]

I really dont see them here in Northern Vic. There are 2 that I know of that I see regularly. One of them is at the Ford dealer often awaiting parts.

[@medz3398]

Space. 3 child seats fit comfortably in the back of an f150. Heck 3 adults fit comfortably in an f150. The regular Utes are too small in that regard. As these are an everyday/family vehicle a lot of people need the space. Why manufacturers don’t make an in between is the problem

[@Haveacrack76]

Someone else pointed out the most valid thing about these trucks. We import the wrong ones. The in between ones is whats needed.

[@mattyk82]

i dont really get it either, from all the youtube channels and likewise of 4wd crews in Australia, you dont really see these american trucks in those spaces, more likely in the carparks at local shopping centres, which is wierd because i have a hard enough time parking my GU in most of those carparks.