Slow build for family adventures

[squatchlx]

I am starting to plan slight modifications to aid in getting out more with 5 people. I did a similar build on a Gx 470 when it was just 3 but I have not been around land cruisers and LXs to have as much experience with various companies that support the platform. I have a 2014 lx. I am probably going to go through a few rounds of upgrades but in the near future we want to go through the Dakotas and Colorad on a few separate trips this summer. Please let me know if any suggestions

First thoughts of higher priority items:
1: Tires, going to probably go to something like a 34” tire with nitro ridge grappler as I have hd good luck on other vehicles. From what I gather the +25mm to +35 mm seems to be the best range for fitment in this size with minimal modifications.

2: roof rack: see a few companies that offer these, not sure of who to go with but need space for things such as max tracks and our ground tent etc.

3: I will probably prioritize sliders before any other armor. I see slee, metal tech and victory let me know any good and bad of each or any recommendations. They do need to act somewhat as a step for my kids and have a top plate as some are little. Leaning towards slee (for better step) or metal tech (mainly for the kick out).

Please let me know if any recommendations, I will eventually do some things such as more skids and some sort of more gas solution (aux or just jerrycan holders. As well as internal drawers.

 

[CharlieS]

With some better than stock tires, you'll go almost anywhere.

I recommend Budbuilt step sliders and skids as another option.

The factory rack was great, but when I decided to upgrade, I landed on a Gamiviti rack. I don't actually have it yet (arriving shortly) so don't have much more to offer.

 

[grinchy]

yep, tires, sliders, a drawer, maybe a electric power station thing.
Metaltech makes a fine step, they're flat and wide. Never have any problems with them. They are on the burly side of the options. Unfortunately BB doesn't have an LX option, MT4x4 is just as burly, if not more.
Toss the Kenda RT on your RG comparo list.
You can budget update the roof rails with 80/20 crossbars, but for just getting out a roof box will work fine with the existing crossbars.

I'd suggest a hardmount air compressor and 4x inflator, that makes a big convenience difference.

 

[radman]

I'm a weirdo and did things all out of order.
IMO, an LX in High mode with 34"-35" will go over most obstacles without needing sliders/skids (I ran Imogene Pass without skids/sliders).
I also got a roof rack early on, but it was for aesthetic reasons. The stock rack is arguably stronger than some of the after market stuff out there - it can support a cargo box and awning no problemo.

I suggest tires, compressor, drawers, and then hit some trips to see what you really need.

 

[squatchlx]

Yeah, I have the air compressor and the portable power/solar panel already, as well as emergency communications etc. The 4x inflator sounds like that would be nice so I will have to look into those. I may wait on the rack if the stock one is strong enough for now. The tent we have is about a 5ft x1ft cylinder when broken down (quick hub style locking structure) so I didn’t know if the two bars would provide enough support. As well as 4 max tracks and probably a cargo box for extra lighter weight items.

 

[Spinedoc44]

Check out TKO fabrication sliders, much more affordable and I prefer the high and tight design.