Steve’s 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition Non-Build and Occasional Travel Thread

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Not much new. I've been tackling other spring projects and chores now that it seems to be spring (although it snowed last week, so...)

Today I swapped in the Baja Design Squadron-R Pro Amber Wide Cornering lights for the OEM fog lights. It seemed easier than on the 4Runner, which is where these were before.

While I was at it, I replaced the flat aluminum surrounds with the newer design plastic cup style. This works a lot better! On the 4Runner, I had a big gap on the inner side.

Ignore the dirt. It is pollen season here, and that's a day's accumulation.

View attachment 2659552
Is this a kit somewhere?
 
Following. I like your build so far. I have a 2021 HE in white and am just starting on it.
 
How hard was the swap? I was thinking about doing something similar with the Baja Tundra SAE fog kit
Is this a kit somewhere?

I had the Baja Design Squadron-R Pro Amber Wide Cornering lights (what a title!) on my 4Runner. I bought them in 2016 as a kit with the mounting parts and harness from Total Automotive as part of a group buy on T4R.org. Here's the parts I have:


In 2015, the rRunner/Tundra/Tacoma kit had a simple flat aluminum front piece (BD calls it a diffuser, but that's not really what it does.) A search on Baja Design's web site didn't find replacement covers using the new plastic cup design. a Fellow on the Ohio 4Runners FaceBook Group recently sent the part number to me so that I could "update" my six year old kit. So if you happen to have the older style Squadron-R Pro, here's a link to update yours. Note that these are one each, so order a quantity of two.


Also note that these are NOT SAE/DOT approved lights, and are technically illegal for on-road use. Baja Design did not make the SAE/DOT version in 2016. And they are way too bright to use anywhere near traffic, anyway. I've commented that I probably should have saved a couple hundred dollars and bought the lower output Sport version instead of the Pro. But then when I'm on a deer infested county back road with no traffic, I'm sure glad I have them!

Finally, on my 4Runner, I did a modification to allow the fogs to be illuminated with the low beams as normal, with the high beams, and with no headlights on at all; all while using just the factory fog light switch. In previous fog light discussions, the question has been asked and answered that the LC200 has a different triggering mechanism for the high beam, and that this modification won't work. But for anyone curious as to how I did it, I refer you to this thread on T4R:

Independent Fog-Light Mod- using the factory switch

I hope that helps!
 
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I had the Baja Design Squadron-R Pro Amber Wide Cornering lights (what a title!) on my 4Runner. I bought them in 2016 as a kit with the mounting parts and harness from Total Automotive as part of a group buy on T4R.org. Here's the parts I have:


In 2015, the rRunner/Tundra/Tacoma kit had a simple flat aluminum front piece (BD calls it a diffuser, but that's not really what it does.) A search on Baja Design's web site didn't find replacement covers using the new plastic cup design. a Fellow on the Ohio 4Runners FaceBook Group recently sent the part number to me so that I could "update" my six year old kit. So if you happen to have the older style Squadron-R Pro, here's a link to update yours. Note that these are one each, so order a quantity of two.


Also note that these are NOT SAE/DOT approved lights, and are technically illegal for on-road use. Baja Design did not make the SAE/DOT version in 2016. And they are way too bright to use anywhere near traffic, anyway. I've commented that I probably should have saved a couple hundred dollars and bought the lower output Sport version instead of the Pro. But then when I'm on a deer infested county back road with no traffic, I'm sure glad I have them!

Finally, on my 4Runner, I did a modification to allow the fogs to be illuminated with the low beams as normal, with the high beams, and with no headlights on at all; all while using just the factory fog light switch. In previous fog light discussions, the question has been asked and answered that the LC200 has a different triggering mechanism for the high beam, and that this modification won't work. But for anyone curious as to how I did it, I refer you to this thread on T4R:

Independent Fog-Light Mod- using the factory switch

I hope that helps!
This is extremely helpful! Thank you brother!
 
I ran those same lights on my ‘13, but I ran them through the Switch-Pros. That was great because it allowed me to turn them down to 25% by default, but turn them up if I needed more light. I still have them, but have been holding off installing them because the factory LED fogs on the ‘16 are actually pretty bright and the lens does a good job of making it usable without blinding oncoming drivers.
 
@Slow Paddler Hello Sir! Can you kindly direct me to the "Under $100" thread referenced? I've struck out attempting searches within the forums. Thanks in advance.
 
@Slow Paddler Hello Sir! Can you kindly direct me to the "Under $100" thread referenced? I've struck out attempting searches within the forums. Thanks in advance.
I tried finding the thread using the forum search and also struck out. It turns out that it's sometimes easier to find such things using Google. I searched Google for "ih8mud 200 series $100 and less" and the first result was the thread you're looking for. Here you go:

Best Upgrades for Under $100 (200-Series)

 
Bluetti EB70 Portable Power Station

I recently purchased the new Bluetti EB70 Portable Power Station, and wanted to test it with my National Luna 90 Twin refrigerator in normal operating conditions. Power station reviews typically use a fridge indoors at a near constant temperature, which is easily comparable and repeatable. But that doesn’t give results under typical conditions. These are my results, with my refrigerator in my vehicle. Yours may vary.

The Bluetti EB70 Power Station is their new Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry battery with 716WH capacity and 700W rated wattage, with 2500+ cycles until reaching 80% capacity. Most (all?) other power stations use Lithium Ion (Li-ion) batteries which have a life of around 500 cycles until reaching 80% capacity. All for less than the cost of a Jackery 500!

I charged the EB70 overnight, using the AC brick charger. The National Luna 90 Twin refrigerator was pre-cooled to 37°F (3°C) on AC power for two days, and contained my typical “empty but cold” load of nine 1/2 gallon containers of water, This is what I have in the SUV all summer to limit cycling of the refrigerator’s compressor. The refrigerator is on the rear cargo area of my SUV, and the EB70 was in the rear passenger footwell to avoid direct light. The refrigerator is covered with an old lap quilt to limit direct solar heating. My SUV is black, with factory tinted windows, so it gets hot inside in direct sun. No solar charging or engine charging via the supplied cigarette lighter outlet was used. Only the EB70’s internal battery.

This test was performed from noon Saturday, May 15 until the refrigerator shut off at 6:50AM Monday, May 17. Overnight lows were 42°F and 50°F, while daily highs were 72°F and 68°F. I did not monitor the temperature inside the SUV.

The results were a run time of 42 hours 50 minutes. Theoretically, this means that the refrigerator used an average of 17 Watts per hour. (716/42.83=16.72) This was a little less than I expected based on controlled testing using the same refrigerator. (See attached image) With the same temperature settings, but with an empty refrigerator, and under more severe conditions (12 hours at 70°F, 7 hours at 90°F, and 5 hours at 109°F), typical in a closed vehicle in direct sun midsummer, they averaged 14Watts per hour (27.7Ah X 12V /24 hours =13.85) In my cooler testing, I expected over 48 hours.

I plan to run this same test again in a couple of months when the interior temperatures will be much higher. Hopefully, it will still maintain power to the refrigerator for at least 30 hours. That would allow some charging while driving.

I currently have the EB70 connected to the AllPowers SunPower 100W flexible mono-crystalline solar panel on top of our Hiker Trailer. It isn’t optimal, in that it isn’t pointed at the sun, and is in shade a sizable portion of the day, but I can at least see how much charge it puts into the Bluetti EB70. Early AM showed 3-10 Watts, mid day the highest I saw was 74 Watts, and by late afternoon it was back down under 10 Watts. That’s not going to help much.

Ideally, a Bluetti SP200 portable solar panel would be a great addition, because it can be located in the sun, and with the adjustable angle, it can charge at peak power. Maybe Bluetti will put these on sale!

Overall, I’m happy so far. The only dislikes are the nearly invisible lights that indicate that the AC or DC output is turned on, and the lack of charge/discharge percentage and remaining time, instead relying on 20% increment bars. That screen can’t take much power. Leave it on while charging, Bluetti!

Links
Bluetti EB70 Power Station: Bluetti eb70 - https://www.bluettipower.com/pages/bluetti-eb70
Bluetti SP200 Solar Panel: https://www.bluettipower.com/.../bluetti-sp200-200w-solar...
National Luna 90 Twin Refrigerator: https://www.equipt1.com/.../pro.../90l-legacy-fridge-freezer
Bluetti

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IMG_6127.jpeg


IMG_6126 (1).jpeg


90-fridge.jpeg
 
Steve, I sent you a PM. When you get a chance would you please get back t me? Thx
 
I am late to the game, but congratulations!
Thank you, David! I haven't seen you on here in a while.

I told you several years ago that I'd end up with a new LC. I just didn't realize it would be so sudden like it turned out. Just last night, driving home from our daughter's, I told Deb "I'm so glad I went ahead and bought this!!"

I complained when I got the 4Runner how, even though it had more internal volume, how much less useful it was than the 2007 Outback. But I eventually figured out how to make it work. Well, same with the LC; four months in, and I'm still finding things that don't fit where I want them. I'll eventually figure it out, but in the meanwhile, I'm enjoying every mile I drive it.

The temperature here exceeded 80°F yesterday for the first time this year. I love ventilated cooled seats!!! :)
 
Thank you, David! I haven't seen you on here in a while.

I told you several years ago that I'd end up with a new LC. I just didn't realize it would be so sudden like it turned out. Just last night, driving home from our daughter's, I told Deb "I'm so glad I went ahead and bought this!!"

I complained when I got the 4Runner how, even though it had more internal volume, how much less useful it was than the 2007 Outback. But I eventually figured out how to make it work. Well, same with the LC; four months in, and I'm still finding things that don't fit where I want them. I'll eventually figure it out, but in the meanwhile, I'm enjoying every mile I drive it.

The temperature here exceeded 80°F yesterday for the first time this year. I love ventilated cooled seats!!! :)

Hey Steve,

I'm so glad you are enjoying the LC200. I still miss my Land Rover LR4 at times, since that was the rig that started it all (and OB#0001 - hahaha), but it went to a great home. I love the LC200 because it is just an iconic dinosaur - reliable, capable, and no frills. Yes, there are some luxury features, but it's so entirely old school that I love it. I am approaching my mid-40s and I don't think I'd get another vehicle aside from a Land Cruiser. Which means I better keep this one up because they are saying we will not see an LC300, and I likely would not be as into it as the 200 series.

I got mine in March 2019 and still have done nothing except for BFG AT KO2s, added the cargo light (which is really cool), and Weathertech mats. I did have Frontrunner drawers for a while, but I got sick of them making rattling noises and it just was not enough room for the dog, so I sold them super cheap to my friend on here in MA.

The weather here in south central PA is in the 80s and quite lovely. I have been alternating working and being outside setting up the gardens. :)

I'll keep in touch - always nice to chat with you!

Regards, David
 
Not much new. I've been tackling other spring projects and chores now that it seems to be spring (although it snowed last week, so...)

Today I swapped in the Baja Design Squadron-R Pro Amber Wide Cornering lights for the OEM fog lights. It seemed easier than on the 4Runner, which is where these were before.

While I was at it, I replaced the flat aluminum surrounds with the newer design plastic cup style. This works a lot better! On the 4Runner, I had a big gap on the inner side.

Ignore the dirt. It is pollen season here, and that's a day's accumulation.

View attachment 2659552
Do you have the part number and or source for the "plastic cup style" surrounds?
Thanks,
Bob
 
Do you have the part number and or source for the "plastic cup style" surrounds?
Thanks,
Bob
I think this may be what you are looking for:
 
I think this may be what you are looking for:

@7000ft Yep, that the correct link. Thanks @CharlieS

Be sure to order two, as they are one piece per package.
 
Arrrrgh!! 2065 miles and I get a stone chip in the windscreen. Two hours later, after just sitting in the driveway, the chip is an eight inch long crack right in the passenger’s line of sight, and a distracting reflection to me.

I’ll see if the chip repair guy can help, but in not hopeful…
 
Arrrrgh!! 2065 miles and I get a stone chip in the windscreen. Two hours later, after just sitting in the driveway, the chip is an eight inch long crack right in the passenger’s line of sight, and a distracting reflection to me.

I’ll see if the chip repair guy can help, but in not hopeful…
OEM windshield only if you need a replacement. Call around to multiple dealers and see if you can find a sub-installer that has multiple recommendations.
 
That sucks. Our windshield place told me once it goes from chip (smaller than a quarter) to crack, the repair option is out.
 
OEM windshield only if you need a replacement. Call around to multiple dealers and see if you can find a sub-installer that has multiple recommendations.

Yea, I've read the windscreen replacement threads in the past, and know that aftermarket is not the desired option; especially SafeLite. I had a crack in the 4Runner windscreen for five of the six years I had it, but it was edge to edge in the lower right corner, so not worth the similar problems with replacement.

That sucks. Our windshield place told me once it goes from chip (smaller than a quarter) to crack, the repair option is out.

That's my concern, but I sure don't want to have to replace it based on previous experiences I've read on this forum.
 
This week I hopped on the bandwagon, and purchased a Kaon roof shelf. Ordered it on the 23rd, and it arrived yesterday, the 27th. Current cost with shipping and exchange rate, plus 5% off for signing up to the mailing list was $320.50

I had the Raingler full-length ceiling net in my 4Runner, and tried to adapt it for use in the 200. But the straps were in the wrong place, resulting in overly tight areas and saggy areas. Stuff would migrate to the center, and interfere with the view through the rearview mirror. So it was either a new Raingler ($282.59 delivered), or the Kaon shelf.

Installation was, as previously noted, a breeze. Thanks to whoever suggested using a 90° pick to remove the OEM grab handle hinge covers! I might end up getting a second set of the threaded inserts to use on the 2nd row grab handles for some future modification. Much better than straps around the handles! No photos, as a black shelf with a black interior and headliner doesn't photograph well. And, it was 89° and 80% humidity.

So far, I like it, but with reservations. I'm 5'8", and Deb is 6" shorter. so using the shelf (and the ceiling net before) requires getting on the tailgate. The T4R was shorter and no tailgate, plus, the net came back farther, so it was a bit easier to use. I knew that going in, so no surprise. The Raingler had more real estate, boing from the back of the sunroof to the aft grab handle, so it was convenient to toss a hat or jacket up there from the 2nd row doors or driver's seat. The Kaon is just accessible from the rear, but has many more mounting opportunities for straps, bags, etc. on the front and bottom.

I think someone ordered two and was going to try fitting one over the 2nd row, but I don't remember seeing if that worked out. Neat option, as I don't use the rear seats, but it gets costly. Maybe something home made using the mounts like @CharlieS did.
 

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