LC 200 Build - Must Haves and Would love

[NMNORSSE]

I highly recommend a really good tent that’s quick and easy to assemble.

Just went camping with 6 other families. We had a very nice 4 person typical height Kelty tent for us and the 2 kids, as did 3 other families. 2 families had tents you could stand up in. Believe me, that is the way to go. They weren't much more expensive than ours but worlds better for sleeping and hanging out.

A hitch mounted cargo platform is nice for hauling what doesn't fit inside the back, like the cooler, a sturdy locking box with camping stuff, bicycles, etc... These aren't great if you are seriously off roading, but for camping they're fantastic.

You asked about upgrades to the truck though. Depending on where you live, ceramic window tint is critical, especially with kids sleeping in the back in carseats. After tires I'd think about sliders more for side impact car crashes than off roading. If you are in deer country, a front bumper with the radiator protecting hoop is more of a need than a want. The weight of the bumper means springs and shocks usually. When you do the bumper you might as well put in a winch or you'll have to pull the bumper to put it in later, unless you dont really do much advanced off roading. After that the difference between want and need depends on your actual use of the truck.

EDIT: a group 31 battery upgrade is nice when the factory one dies. We get a lot of use out of an inverter, extension cord and led lights when camping. Red tinted bulbs don't attract bugs. A string of red led Christmas lights at dinner time is pretty handy. One of the 4 foot led shop lights from costco and some string to hang it from is great for setting up camp in the dark, etc...

 

[CharlieS]

While I enjoy building my rig as much as the next guy, given the OP's uses, all of this is major overkill.

Having recently been on a dune bashing trip in Qatar, in bone stock land cruisers, there is nothing this guy is doing that even comes close to the kind of brutality these drivers put their cruisers through. 90+ out of 100 on the desert are land cruisers, every one I saw was stock with the exception of an aftermarket rim here or there, and some on different rubber.

I'm not saying that some people, especially hard core off-roaders, need more. But for family car camping and "overlanding" in the US, we don't need any of this stuff. Especially if road manners and comfort (low NVH) are high on your list. It is all "nice to have", in my personal opinion.

 

[eatSleepWoof]

While I enjoy building my rig as much as the next guy, given the OP's uses, all of this is major overkill.

Having recently been on a dune bashing trip in Qatar, in bone stock land cruisers, there is nothing this guy is doing that even comes close to the kind of brutality these drivers put their cruisers through. 90+ out of 100 on the desert are land cruisers, every one I saw was stock with the exception of an aftermarket rim here or there, and some on different rubber.

I'm not saying that some people, especially hard core off-roaders, need more. But for family car camping and "overlanding" in the US, we don't need any of this stuff. Especially if road manners and comfort (low NVH) are high on your list. It is all "nice to have", in my personal opinion.

Completely agreed.

There are people traveling the world in 30-40 years old VWs, Mercedes Station Wagons, Minivans, and everything in between, all 100% stock. These guys are out there, experiencing the world, while others argue about the necessities of bumpers and sliders on forums. Building vehicles is fun, and can be a cool hobby, but it's far stretch from a "need" for overland-based travel.

 

[Eire32]

Just throwing the opinions out there, nobody’s debating the fact that these stock units are not going around built like tanks
But I just wanted to get some ideas that’s all, I’m sure 100 years before them guys were happy as Larry on a camel going through the desert

 

[NMNORSSE]

While I enjoy building my rig as much as the next guy, given the OP's uses, all of this is major overkill. ...Its all "nice to have"...

Agreed. I apologize if my post gave a different impression. "Need" depends on where you are and what you are doing.

Lots of deer nearby? You might need a bumper with radiator protection to keep a deer from coming through the windshield or stranding you somewhere inconvenient. Unfortunately than means at least upgrading the springs for the weight.

Driving in the desert? I hear the factory Dunlops are great. In a mountainous area? An AT tire might be what you need. Muddy? MTs...

Look at the other trucks where you live. Trucks that really get driven and used the way you'll be using yours. Whatever they have might be what you need. Take your time. The Cruiser is very very capable out of the box except the tires are for deserts and paved roads not mud and rocks.

 

[CharlieS]

Try this at home...

 

[lcforlife]

Completely agreed.

There are people traveling the world in 30-40 years old VWs, Mercedes Station Wagons, Minivans, and everything in between, all 100% stock. These guys are out there, experiencing the world, while others argue about the necessities of bumpers and sliders on forums. Building vehicles is fun, and can be a cool hobby, but it's far stretch from a "need" for overland-based travel.

It just depends on what type of overlanding you are doing. I was destroying my stock 200 going to the places I like to go, thus the mods began. It's always better to be overkill than underkill when you are out in the country I will say that. You don't know how many times I've gone places with friends and they have said, "thank god we had your rig and the recovery equipment." Without it we would have been hiking out a long ways. The bottom line is there is no right or wrong no matter what you do to your truck. If someone over builds the hell out of their truck and only drives to the grocery store, who cares, as long as it makes them happy. It's just like remodeling your kitchen at home, was it necessary, no, but as long as you enjoy it and it makes you happy that's all that counts.

 

[Eire32]

It just depends on what type of overlanding you are doing. I was destroying my stock 200 going to the places I like to go, thus the mods began. It's always better to be overkill than underkill when you are out in the country I will say that. You don't know how many times I've gone places with friends and they have said, "thank god we had your rig and the recovery equipment." Without it we would have been hiking out a long ways. The bottom line is there is no right or wrong no matter what you do to your truck. If someone over builds the hell out of their truck and only drives to the grocery store, who cares, as long as it makes them happy. It's just like remodeling your kitchen at home, was it necessary, no, but as long as you enjoy it and it makes you happy that's all that counts.

That just about sums it up perfectly

 

[PDoyle]

More usb location options, but not on the console where they stick up in the way.

 

[WesSiler]

Two adults, 2-3 v young kids
Definitely adding a roof rack and roof tent, and towing would include options up to towing my 2,000 lb lawn tractor to option of towing an overland trailer in future depending on where this goes

I'd encourage you to skip the roof tent. It just won't give you the space you need, and they're actually less comfortable than a good ground setup, all while costing a fortune and destroying your fuel economy.

Here's my recommendation for an ultra-lux camping setup. For the kiddos, you'll just want the 8P Nemo tent (or their own tents), and then Big Agnes makes a good kid's sleep system (pad and sleeping bag combo).

The Ultimate Sleep Setup for Car Camping

The most comfortable nighttime experience possible for vehicle-based adventures

www.outsideonline.com

 

[WesSiler]

Do any of the refrigerators plug into what’s currently in the rear area of a stock LC?

Thank you guys for all the suggestions

Grab a Dometic PLB40 battery and whichever CFX3 (they really are the best out right now) fits your size needs. Err small on fridge size. With this setup, so long as you're driving once every three days or so, you'll have the ability to permanently run the fridge/freezer, which really is awesome for upgrading what you eat while camping. The PLB is specifically designed for the needs of a fridge, with lithium-iron chemistry. If you tried to use a lithium-ion battery like a GoalZero or something, the fridge will constantly trigger low battery warnings and switch itself off, even close to full charge. The PLB will take itself down to zero without issue. You probably don't need solar.

 

[eatSleepWoof]

I'd encourage you to skip the roof tent. It just won't give you the space you need, and they're actually less comfortable than a good ground setup, all while costing a fortune and destroying your fuel economy.

Here's my recommendation for an ultra-lux camping setup. For the kiddos, you'll just want the 8P Nemo tent (or their own tents), and then Big Agnes makes a good kid's sleep system (pad and sleeping bag combo).

The Ultimate Sleep Setup for Car Camping

The most comfortable nighttime experience possible for vehicle-based adventures

www.outsideonline.com

+1 on ground tent vs. RTT for a family.

Wes - have you ever used an OZ Tent? Given your extensive experience with the Nemo tent, I'm curious to hear how the two compare in real-life use.

I've had two OZ Tent RV4 models, sold each in a favour of a RTT, and regret selling the second just as I've regretted selling the first. Just might end up with a third one (sigh...). My biggest gripe with the RV series is the packed size, so the duffel-sized Nemo package has some appeal.

 

[grinchy]

+1 on ground tent vs. RTT for a family.

Wes - have you ever used an OZ Tent? Given your extensive experience with the Nemo tent, I'm curious to hear how the two compare in real-life use.

I've had two OZ Tent RV4 models, sold each in a favour of a RTT, and regret selling the second just as I've regretted selling the first. Just might end up with a third one (sigh...). My biggest gripe with the RV series is the packed size, so the duffel-sized Nemo package has some appeal.

I've had good success with a tepee like design. It is semi self supporting (Poles run on the walls, not in center), has very large interior space with unbelievable center height and is pretty easy to pitch and pack. Single layer, so putting away wet can be an issue. Huge redeeming feature is price.

Ozark Trail 7-Person Camping Teepee Tent, Without Center Pole Obstruction - Walmart.com

Buy Ozark Trail 7-Person Camping Teepee Tent, Without Center Pole Obstruction at Walmart.com

www.walmart.com

I haven't personally used this version, but the instant/pop up feature may be desirable. The size inside the teepee really is amazing.

Ozark Trail 12' x 12' Instant Tepee Tent, Sleeps 7, 21.98 lbs - Walmart.com

Buy Ozark Trail 12' x 12' Instant Tepee Tent, Sleeps 7, 21.98 lbs at Walmart.com

www.walmart.com

 

[WesSiler]

+1 on ground tent vs. RTT for a family.

Wes - have you ever used an OZ Tent? Given your extensive experience with the Nemo tent, I'm curious to hear how the two compare in real-life use.

I've had two OZ Tent RV4 models, sold each in a favour of a RTT, and regret selling the second just as I've regretted selling the first. Just might end up with a third one (sigh...). My biggest gripe with the RV series is the packed size, so the duffel-sized Nemo package has some appeal.

I haven't used that particular brand, but I'm generally not a fan of very heavy tent materials. Australia is a weird place, and their tent market is very heavily influenced by tradition rather than common sense or reason. The modern materials the Nemo is made from are just as robust, and don't retain moisture like saturated canvas can. And they're obviously much, much smaller in packed size and weight. There's an additional "garage" for the Wagontop that is just fantastic too.

I have a theory that RTTs are mostly sold to relatively inexperienced campers here in the US. They're just sort of a con that promises comfort and nighttime security from bogeymen, but in reality just cost a ton, look ugly, and destroy your vehicle's dynamics. Most people have tried like crappy Coleman or Walmart camping gear, and think that's as good as it gets, and that an RTT is the only upgrade. Take the time to learn how to camp comfortably instead.

 

[CharlieS]

I have a RTT on a small camper that lets my kids get off the ground while we sleep inside. It doesn't suck.

We've done lots of tent camping over the years, and for a while had larger campers. This setup works well for us now. At my age, getting up off the ground is important to my enjoyment of camping.

Not ours, but the same model:

 

[eatSleepWoof]

I haven't used that particular brand, but I'm generally not a fan of very heavy tent materials. Australia is a weird place, and their tent market is very heavily influenced by tradition rather than common sense or reason. The modern materials the Nemo is made from are just as robust, and don't retain moisture like saturated canvas can. And they're obviously much, much smaller in packed size and weight. There's an additional "garage" for the Wagontop that is just fantastic too.

There's probably some truth to that, yeah. The quick setup is probably the largest benefit to the OZ Tent range. As far as material goes, you're probably also correct, but I'll say there's something very comforting (on a psychological level?) to the canvas. It just feels... right.

I have a theory that RTTs are mostly sold to relatively inexperienced campers here in the US. They're just sort of a con that promises comfort and nighttime security from bogeymen, but in reality just cost a ton, look ugly, and destroy your vehicle's dynamics. Most people have tried like crappy Coleman or Walmart camping gear, and think that's as good as it gets, and that an RTT is the only upgrade. Take the time to learn how to camp comfortably instead.

RTTs are frequently a fashion statement. I do agree they have plenty of downsides. Their biggest appeal (to me) is the setup time, which includes zero setup for bedding. That's a huge win over ground tents (for me). I wish a similarly quick setup was available for ground tents, while still retaining the "off the ground" feature (ie. on a cot) and standing room height (ie. no swags). The perfect setup (for me) seems impossible to find.

 

[WesSiler]

There's probably some truth to that, yeah. The quick setup is probably the largest benefit to the OZ Tent range. As far as material goes, you're probably also correct, but I'll say there's something very comforting (on a psychological level?) to the canvas. It just feels... right.

RTTs are frequently a fashion statement. I do agree they have plenty of downsides. Their biggest appeal (to me) is the setup time, which includes zero setup for bedding. That's a huge win over ground tents (for me). I wish a similarly quick setup was available for ground tents, while still retaining the "off the ground" feature (ie. on a cot) and standing room height (ie. no swags). The perfect setup (for me) seems impossible to find.

Yeah, it probably takes 2-3 minutes to set up the tent, 5 minutes to inflate the mattress, and another 5-10 to generally mess with stuff.

My perfect camping setup is the Go Fast Camper in the back of my Ranger, plus a 270 awning, and a swingout with a fold down table and a mount for a 10 pound propane bottle. Wrapping up that build this weekend and shooting video with it next week. Figure it's sorta a cabana you get to take anywhere.

 

[stonepa]

Overlanding and daily driver?

Depends what you mean by 'overlanding'. Weekend camping trip that requires driving on the interstate for 3 hours, then maybe some dirt road driving? Driving to Panama? Lucky you. They require the same things. If I am being realistic about what is needed, the only things I would do is:

• Upgrade the tires to A/Ts, with a set of snows on rims for winter. Watch out for increasing weight.
• Install an HD set of roof rack cross bars and mounts from Yakima or similar. You can carry luggage box, canoes, kayaks, skis, etc on top. And LC200 will easily and legally carry 250-300 pounds on the roof while driving. Few other vehicles (other than the new Defender) come close to that legally.
• Remove the 3rd row seats unless you really need them (just increased payload by 110 pounds)
• Remove the running boards unless you really need them (just increased the payload by 25 pounds)
• Buy some good WeatherTech or Husky floor liners for the front 2 rows. Order the Toyota LC Heritage matt for the cargo area if you removed the rear seats.
• Buy a sat phone and a portable radio / walkie talkie
• Maybe install an extended range fuel tank. but only after taking some trips to see if you really need the range. I like the 40 gallon. But remember, that's around 350lbs when full.
• Use the camping gear you have
• Save up cash and go!

All that other stuff? ARB bumper, winch, sliders, full build outs, lift, 35" tires, 2 spare tires, roof top tent, lights front and rear, lockers, HiLift jack, dual batteries, tools and spare parts, etc? Wow is that a lot of extra weight. And a lot of additional fuel and repairs. Looks cool though. I've done full build outs on a new FJ60, a new Disco II, and a partial on my new 100. I did not do it on my new 200 as I had learned that all that looked great but didn't actually add to my capability or enjoyment.

My experience, over 35 years of taking long trips, tells me none of those extras are needed for 99% of people. Time and cash is. Save up, load up, keep it simple, and GO!

 

[Chrisleduc1]

So, here's more from the peanut gallery.

I have (3) kids, 6, 4 and almost 2. I went ahead with an off-road trailer, which is awesome because I have 40 gal of water, hot water heater, sink, dual batteries, platform for RTT etc. But thats another story...

He was my reasoning:
I work on weekends and wanted to be able to go in the middle of the week, and go as far from people as possible. That meant I need to be able to get to those places, and it meant that I should plan on being alone, meaning that I need to be self sufficient for recovery. So good AT tires is a must. Being able to air up and down is really a must. What route you go exactly is another story, but you need air. I would argue that you need a Warn12S winch and a few pieces of recovery gear like maxtraxs, shovel, snatch blocks, etc. These are all basically like an insurance policy. If you use them once, they will have paid for themselves and you'll be overjoyed. You can get a hidden winch mount that does not require a front bumper. Also, a tire repair kit (and of course a first aid kit). Along those lines is a good backup battery/lithium jump box, if you do not install a second battery.

I have the largest RTT that CVT makes, with the extended annex. (its mounted on our trailer.) Its awesome. We have no problems getting in and out. We'll see about this summer, but last summer we had the baby in a pack n play in the annex (which has a zip-on ribber floor and is thus totally enclosed). That allowed the 4 of use to go up to the RTT. This summer she will probably join us and the 5 of us will fit just fine. We can leave our sleeping bags and pillows up there when we fold it all up. This requires a good roof rack.

The fridge is a really nice. No ice, no mess, etc. Necessary? No. Not sure if your wife likes to cook, or how you'll eat while on the road, but having an area to prep food is important for us. A table maybe? Lots of options out there. A cassette toilet is nice too. But if you're going to mostly camp/sleep in campgrounds etc, then not so much needed.

Water is also somewhat of a big deal. How far from civilization will you be? For how long? The water bladders that lay on the floor of the second row are a cool option.

I also went with the 40 gal aux gas tank, which then requires a plan for relocating the spare. The 12 gal is a good option if you want to keep the spare in the factory location. That extra full is important if you really want to be able to drive for hours and hours in 4L not be worried about gas all the time.

I am sure I am forgetting some things, but hope that helps.

** Awnings are really nice as well too, whether for heat and shade, or rain... I have a Darche 270 on my trailer, and the wall kit ($$$) that can really turn a nasty weather situation into a large dry area for us. On the rig I have an ARB awning and the screen room that can be clipped on so that we are mosquito free..

 

[ckkone]

This all you need:

12.5 gallon auxiliary fuel tank
Wheels and tires
2" lift
Auxiliary battery system
Hidden winch mount and winch

Done.