A question of overlanding?

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rautieslj70

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Hi All,

This is my first post on this forum (awesome website by the way). I am plannining to drive through africa, one the western route, at the end of the year. I own a LJ70 1992 with the 2l-t engie. I know they are prone to over heating so I am goning to install an aftermaket thermostat.

The questions I have, have to do with load capacity, suspension and tyre size.

Firstly does anyone know the maximum load I can put on the vehicle, without putting to much strain on the drive train and enjine?

Secondly will I need to install corrective radius arms when I install 40mm O.M.E suspension?

Lastly, which tyre size is more fuel economical, 265/75/R16 or 235/85/R16?


Thank you for reading. Any advice will be appreciated!
 
There is a difference between the 2LT and the 2LTE.

I have done a safari in Africa - Southern Part - around 12,000 kms for the first leg, and then another 4,000 or so on the second leg.

I would suggest that if your LJ has the 2LTE engine that you do not take that vehicle to Africa at all. You'd be far better off with a full sized Land Cruiser and an OME suspension system. The full sized units (in diesel) will get better fuel economy and have more power, have less risk of problems and cost you far less over the long haul.

As for tires: you need a 16" rim and a tire size that is common in Africa. Something like a 235 85 R16 / 7.50 R 16 in a 10 ply version with a moderately aggressive tread.

~John
 
Oh, and reams of stuff has been written on Overlanding, so it's not even worth starting a lengthy discussion here until you've done considerable research (which I suspect you've already done).

The few things that I can say are that no matter how heavy duty you build something (within reason) it will still be prone to breaking/damage over the long haul.

Prepare for safety every step of the way.

Tie everything down each day in preparation for a roll-over or a flop on to your side.

Carry at least two spare tires and lots of patching equipment, along with an air source.

~John
 
Basically what everyone said X2!
If it does have to be the LJ then...

- Maybe consider an EGT and aftermarket water temp gauge
- The weight, no idea but lesser the better! There are so many variables and it depends on driving style and terrain as well as your suspension.
- 235 probably better sized tyre

Of course you can do it - plenty folk do it on bikes so an LJ would be fine, but if choice is an option I would go for:
60, 70 , 80 series... Diesel. Or a Hilux.

Check the HUBB as HlToppr suggested - plenty info there. Safety yes - absolutely! You no doubt know that hospitals here are places you really do not want to end up...
I live in West Africa and feel free to PM and WELCOME. Castor correction you will be unlikely to need with that lift: you will be so busy dodging potholes a bit of steering wander will be hardly noticed ;)
Gil
 
thanks for the speedy deply and advice!

As I thought, this is truely a great site. Its brilliant that you guys replied so quickly. In hindsight I probably agree with the coments about the LJ not being the ideal vehicle, but it's still a toyota, and choice is not a luxury. I come frome South Africa and I have done some traveling in southern africa so I know a little of what a strange place it is. I'll have a look at those 235's. Where could I find spli rims for them though? As for the for the EGT, is there a particular brand I shoud be looking for?

I definitlyhave the 2l-t engine, not that it makes a difference, but how does it compare to the 2l-te engine?

Thanks again
 
Hi gilgahna,

I presume from your handel, that you are based in ghana. I am planing on spending two or three weeks birding in Ghana, so I will be driving into some of the remote areas. Are there any parts you think I should avoid and is Acra the only place I can get decent spares for my lj, if I need them? Its great being able to communicate with someone from one of the places I going. I'm sure I'll have a couple more questions. How do I go about sending a PM?

Anyway, cheers for the input!
 
I wouldn't leave town without a set of mechnical gauges... Exhuast gas temp, Water temp, and oil pressure!

I know the 2lt's are prone to head issues, but if you watch your temps you'll be in good shape

cheers

I personally like isspro gauges... but it's personal preference and affordablity in your area
 
Well,
birding in Ghana you have to go to Mole National park - superb savannah type park with hundreds of birds, as well as bigger game! Would also recommend Bui National Park - river trips in dug out canoes with loads of birds and hippos. Ghana also has some amazing coastal areas, further to the West there are mangrove swamps, Ankassa Forest National Park. To be honest the only part of Ghana I avoid is the congested and super-populated Accra. I loathe it!!! For vehicle stuff Kumase is actually the best - biggest spare parts market in Africa which if you are into vehicles at all is absolutely incredible...
Gil
 
Cheers guys, thank you all for your input!!!!!!

Can't wait to see Ghana and I'll start looking for those gauges right away.

Happy driving. I'll keep you posted on how I get on applying all th e things everyone has said.
rauties.
 
you are a fool to consider traveling in a L series truck but it is your choice. buy a new head and gasket kit to carry along with you... i am not kidding in the least.
 
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