Got any advice for a beginner?

[RandoKarooza Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close RandoKarooza]

Hi All, I've just picked up my new Prado. I've never done any mechanical work so I'm coming in green, but want to make sure I make as few mistakes as possible. I want capable off road vehicle for camping trips with the kids and the odd hunting expedition.

I've just ordered a ProVent Catch can kit, a secondary 2micron fuel filter and some diff breathers to make a start. Next steps are to get a bull bar and tow kit fitted (not for a caravan, just trailers), the some spotlights.

What are some traps for young players I should look out for? What would you do differently if you could have your time again with a new vehicle?

Cheers

[Grinbot Member Find all posts View Profile Close Grinbot]

I've only had my Prado for about 3 years. Many others here have more experience than me.

The ############# YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrU...RmGdmixPWRuo5A) - run by a mechanic that specializes in Prados and owns them himself - has useful Prado mechanical tips, if you have the time and patience to watch the videos. Interestingly, he doesn't recommend catch cans, extra fuel filters, or diff breathers. He explains why, but I'm sure they do help in some cases. I don't run any of those things, although I do like the idea of water trap pre-filter.

I think many people will tell you that weight is the biggest issue, especially when you are touring with kids. So anything you can do minimize weight to keep you under the GVM is important.

Most important accessory by the way: dual-battery and a fridge .

Check out the great Prado gear at https://www.kaon.com.au. I recommend the cargo barrier, fire extinguisher mount, and water tank (note, you need the genuine tow bar for the water tank to fit.)

Things I would do differently?

- Samller/lighter roof rack. I have a Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform (2128mm x 1236mm) with Backbone which weighs 33.5 Kg total, and really eats into the roof load limit. Especially when Rhino Rack derate it to 2/3 for "offroad". (Prado roof limit is 100 Kg if you remove the roof rails and install six-point mounting system - 80 Kg otherwise.)

- Maybe get away without drawers in the back and save weight and use the space more efficiently. (Not sure about this - the drawers are bloody useful.)

- Probably don't need steel side steps which are heavy (33 Kg).

[Grinbot Member Find all posts View Profile Close Grinbot]

Oh yeh, I forgot this major one: do I really need a bullbar! Bullbars are super heavy and expensive. For my next vehicle (long way away) I'm going to seriously question whether I really need one.

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

You are about to enter a bottomless pit for spending . Decide what you REALLY need for the type of driving that you will do. Mainly a city car with minimal real outback trips? Don't need much at all. It is a really capable vehicle from new. Save money on a lot of stuff and spend it on 4wd driving course.