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Originally Posted by joshoisasleep
Uuuhhh I don't see how it could be a scam they're on here asking for advice. I don't really get your dog thing...
First off, as others have said, I would imagine far more breakdowns in a brand new Ford than an ancient beat up 70 series. Seriously, an old cruiser or rover is far superior for your purposes... it's what they're made for... Fords are made for hauling.
Secondly, You're going to have to face the facts that for this type of expedition and your purposes, you either need more than one vehicle, or you need a Unimog or big old army truck as a platform. I would seriously consider two vehicles for many reasons.
1. I imagine a truck that size would use almost as much fuel as the two smaller trucks
2. Shipping. Two smaller trucks should able to squeeze into a 40' container (possibly as low as $2,000)... a tall truck like a mog would not be able to ship container, and reportedly costs about $3,500 to get around the Derian Gap each way.
4. Redundancy... if one truck breaks down or gets stuck, the other is always there.
I am currently doing this trip... it is just me and my girlfriend and we are small, minimalistic people... trust me a 5 person film crew and two large dogs cannot do it in one truck... think of the times when you'll have to haul the cyclists and their bikes/gear... it WILL happen.
As far as armour... I don't think it's ENTIRELY a silly idea. What I would like is a polycarbonate shield that could fold up (instantly??) in front of my windshield to protect from rocks on rough roads and determined thieves... also would be bullet-resistant. I recently had easily removable (with the doors open that is) steel bars made up for the side windows with bug screens for when we're sleeping (mozzy's and baddies stay out, nice cool breeze comes in!), and also for a bit of extra parking peace of mind.
I think there are lots of not too rediculous and lightweight ways to armour up a landcruiser a little bit.
My vote also goes with two diesel 78s. And someone on here recently told me they could be had brand new somewhere down south (they definitely can in Australia). Failing that, HJ60's (just saw one with a factory 1HZ!) or landrover 110s would be my next choice.
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i almost split a 40'container with 5 people on bikes. $1800 was the quote for the container plus port fees Roll On Roll Off was quoted $4k. so i agree with that 100%
security film used on bank teller windows and casinos would be an ideal way to add extra security to the truck. i had a lead on some but it fell through with too much last minute prep i went dark as possible on normal tint. bars or expanded metal inside the window would also work very well. yep another project i didn't have time for.
Jilt if you need someone to drive a second truck who knows the route and has experience let me know. i'm sure i could free up my schedule.
dmc