Road trip preparation - what parts/tools should I bring? (4 Viewers)

[BuddhaCruiser]

The Buddha has ~347k on the odometer and has been our family action rig since June 2020. I've had no major mechanical issues since we bought it. Service records from the P.O. go back to 2005 and 114k. I know that most major systems are sound, having undergone inspections and work over the last 5 years. Trans, radiator, diffs, all good.
I'm planning a 3,000-mile road trip through Eastern Oregon, Nevada, and Northern Arizona for early September—mostly highway plans, with a few off-road camping spots and dirt/gravel connecting roads.

Question for the wisdom of the community...
What (if any) parts, tools, and gadgets would you be taking?
I'm not a mechanic, but I can do the basics in a pinch. Any guidance or ideas are greatly appreciated.

 

[george_tlc]

All comes down to maintenance that has been done.

i.e. all coolant hoses, transmission hoses, brake lines, fuel lines/hoses, lubrication, etc. Brake pads etc. Belts.

Basic toolbox with what you would need to replace a hose or change a spark plug or tighten up a loose bolt.

If maintenance has been kept up, I wouldn't be bringing a boatload of spare parts. Maybe a few lengths of hose and hose clamps just in case. Some extra fluids (e.g. engine oil). In a pinch regular water is fine to top up a coolant leak.

Modern and recent phone with starlink service (e.g. Pixel 9 and tmobile) - that'll get you help IF needed when off the beaten path.

Take your time and if there's a bypass to get you to where you want to be, take it Get under the vehicle every so often on your trip and look things over. Don't ignore 'strange noises'.

And then all the stuff you would have if camping anyway, first aid, shelter, food, water etc.

cheers,
george.

 

[smorkington]

54mm socket

 

[BuddhaCruiser]

All comes down to maintenance that has been done.

i.e. all coolant hoses, transmission hoses, brake lines, fuel lines/hoses, lubrication, etc. Brake pads etc. Belts.

Basic toolbox with what you would need to replace a hose or change a spark plug or tighten up a loose bolt.

If maintenance has been kept up, I wouldn't be bringing a boatload of spare parts. Maybe a few lengths of hose and hose clamps just in case. Some extra fluids (e.g. engine oil). In a pinch regular water is fine to top up a coolant leak.

Modern and recent phone with starlink service (e.g. Pixel 9 and tmobile) - that'll get you help IF needed when off the beaten path.

Take your time and if there's a bypass to get you to where you want to be, take it Get under the vehicle every so often on your trip and look things over. Don't ignore 'strange noises'.

And then all the stuff you would have if camping anyway, first aid, shelter, food, water etc.

cheers,
george.

Thanks, George,
That's exactly what I was hoping for from someone with more trail miles than me. Much appreciated.

 

[LandCruiserPhil]

Admittedly, you are not a mechanic;, AAA is your friend.

Im mechanical and I carry AAA because if nothing else it will get me to a better place to deal with the problems.

 

[davidp14]

I carry a driveshaft, starter, alternator and a bunch of hoses, fuses, and relays. I have most of my tools with me all the time, including a 54mm socket and a knuckle rebuild kit and bearings. I have enough of every fluid the 80 uses to at least get me off the trail.

All of it is securely strapped down.

In truth it's probably too much but it makes me feel better driving long distances to have it with me. I am usually driving to trails where I'm going to beat on mine though.

You've got some good advice already here. Make sure it's been thoroughly baselined and check on it regularly and you'll probably be fine.

Oh and I also have AAA

 

[LandCruiserPhil]

I have done a lot of remote solo travel, and the only major parts I carry for an 80 is a fuel pump and a PS high pressure hose. (never needed)
You can work around a lot to get home, but without a fuel pump, you are not going anywhere.

 

[davidp14]

I have done a lot of remote solo travel, and the only major parts I carry for an 80 is a fuel pump and a PS high pressure hose. (never needed)
You can work around a lot to get home, but without a fuel pump, you are not going anywhere.

I have one of those too.