V6 manual build-up!

[pioprado Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close pioprado]

Hi! I have an '03 V6 manual 120 GX. A 'moderate' build-up is required for a 12 month 'round Oz trip departing April '11. I humbly seek advice! Currently shod with BFG A/T's, Sovereign B/Bar... that's about it. A friend has offered a 9000lb Premier winch. My research and contacts say the winch wont fit, though I spotted a burgundy coloured 120 with a Premier winch some time ago on Pradopoint. Expected road surface breakdown: 40% tarmac, 40% sand, 15% gravel, 5% mud (considering Cape York @ July/Aug), are these tyres adequate? Mixed reviews on the Cooper S/T's. ARB have suggested an OME suspension up-grade providing a 2 inch lift. The rear will hold a 45l fridge and light equipment. A rooftop basket will hold an Oztent, rods and 2 Jerry cans. Snorkel, cargo barrier, spots. dual batteries etc. Am I on the right track? With a budget in mind, any proven practical assistance is greatly appreciated! Thanks. Tim :-)

[stevensr34 Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close stevensr34]

Re: V6 manual build-up!

Pack light, travel light... Your car will appreciate it!

Check and double check that you REALLY need the stuff you are packing: is there a light-weight alternative?
Check what you are bolting onto the car: do you really want that extra weight to lug around the whole country?

Enjoy!

[damonat Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close damonat]

Re: V6 manual build-up!

are you going single vehicle.
this might help with items required

[404pug Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close 404pug]

Re: V6 manual build-up!

BFG tyres good- no problems on Canning Stock Route or Oodnadatta track this year- 28 PSI on dirt - no more and keep dirt speeds to 80 kph -solves most tyre problems before they start. With 180 l on board do you really need the 2 jerries? You wont need them on the Cape and other than remote desert tracks like CSR or Simpson, there is fuel every few hundred kms all over the country- up to 40 kg saved! OME medium suspension works well [ check suspension link] but worth putting POLYAIR bags in the back for the big loads while leaving the suspension soft for the rest of the time. Weight kills tyres and suspension so try to pack light [and I will achieve this one day!] Enjoy the trip. Neil