Overlanding is an opportunity to discover things that make life worth living – whether it’s a trip down memory lane or visiting places you’ve never been to. So, why not explore with all your heart?
In this article, let these true-blue adventurers offer you a fresh outdoor perspective aboard their modified Ford overland rigs.
When the going gets tough but you just can’t go without all your important stuff, then Jacob’s one-of-a-kind 2018 Ford Expedition Limited 4×4 has the answer you need.
Specifically, one of his Ford Expedition mods include their very own Kingdom Overland Roof Rack that screams utility all over it. Why wouldn’t it? A roof rack is a valuable modification piece because you can put almost everything on it that won’t easily fit in your vehicle – from luggage, excess camping gear, to bicycles.
Although it was a challenge getting the right overland kitchen setup and drawers because they need to be perfectly suitable for the vehicle, the issue was eventually fixed because Jacob had it custom made to make the most out of the cargo area.
What’s the One Word that Best Describes Overlanding and Why?
“Camping. For us, the overlanding vehicle, equipment, and build are what allows us to go camping and experience the outdoors as a family.” –Jacob
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
Expedition Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- ICON 2.25″ Stage 2 Suspension System W Billet UCA
- Method 701-HD Matte Black with Bead Grip
- Maxxis Tires 37×12.5 R17
- Powerstop HD Ceramic Break Pads with Drilled and Slotted Rotors
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
- Factory Raptor Front Bumper
- Custom Steel Rear Bumper
- Steel Weld on Rock Sliders
- Monster INC Kinetic Recovery Rope
- Factor 55 Soft Shackles
- ARB Tire Patch Kit
- Smittybilt Air Compressor
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
- Fully Custom-built Kitchen with Camp Chef Everest 2-Burner Stove with Drawers and Pantry Shelves
- Sliding Gear Drawer (48-inch long)
- KC Hilites Lighting
- Garmin Power Switch w/ Overland Tread Screen
Miscellaneous
- 4th Gen Roof Racks
- Full Length Aluminum, no-drill. 3rd-Gen (to be released shortly)
- 10-gallon Water Tank
Social Media Handles & Contact
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcrL9Nb4HixqcXANSGF6rOg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kingdom_overlanding/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kingdomoverlanding
Website: https://kingdomoverlanding.com/
Email: [email protected]
If you prefer staying longer in a particular place, without worrying about foregoing the comforts of electricity, then Bilbo’s 2001 3-door Ford Explorer Sport 2WD says it all.
This is because one of his Ford Explorer mods are solar panels that easily convert sunlight into a useful source of energy enough to keep his mobile home up and running. It might be new for the conventional adventurers but being one with nature through hiking alone and other activities doesn’t stop where batteries and gadgets end. In fact, it only makes it more personal, homier – it’s true and it’s what Bilbo’s trying to point out.
However, optimizing the storage space and headspace for the bed platform in his vehicle was a different story altogether. Doing such a thing was tricky because he had limited tools and equipment. But since resourcefulness and quick-thinking skills make a powerful team, these helped him figure out what parts are missing and what adjustments must be made.
What’s the One Word that Best Describes Overlanding and Why?
“I’ll go with tent, simply because overlanding doesn’t have to be as challenging as most people think; consider your car a tent that you can drive around in, and you’re done. Bring something soft to sleep on in the car and something to stay warm; bring some food and water, and you are good to go on your first trip. You don’t need to make one of those super fancy builds to try it out. Keep it simple before you know if it is for you.” –Bilbo
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
Explorer Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
- Scrap Metal
- Roof Rack/Roof Cage
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
Social Media Handles & Contact
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3OBPqizJZg
Website: https://motorhomeking.com/
When towing loads of items is a normal scenario for you and your rig, you can easily turn to Jeremy’s vintage gem for some enlightenment – 1994 Ford Explorer.
What makes this vehicle amazing is it contains the famous 12-valve Cummins Engine. Although it first appeared in the 90s on a Ram Pickup Truck, it has deservingly earned its reputation as a heavyweight tower because of its increased torque capacity at lower speeds. Meaning, it helps you easily tow even at a stationary position. It also means more amounts of fuel are saved.
On the other hand, getting it properly set up in Jeremy’s vehicle is a serious brawl because he had to do everything from boxing the frame to putting in the 3/4-ton axles. It was a challenging swap since most of his builds are centered on it. But his hard work paid off because he planned it carefully with the right parts and right mindset.
What’s the One Word that Best Describes Overlanding and Why?
“Adventure. For me overlanding is about being self-sufficient while travelling to hard-to-reach but beautiful destinations. The most rewarding part is proving to yourself that you built a rig yourself that you can rely on to get you through your personal adventure.” –Jeremy
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
Explorer Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- 37-inch Tires
- Dana 50 TTB Front End from an F250 (Swapped to coil springs.)
- Dana 70 Rear End from a Ram 2500
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
Miscellaneous
- Interior Bed Liners (For off-roading and easy cleaning.)
Social Media Handles & Contact
YouTube: www.youtube.com/BuildSomethingAuto
Website: https://www.buildautomedia.com/
CONCLUSION
They say the world is a stage and we all have different roles to play. It’s up to you on how you want to live your life but being stagnant isn’t an option. There’s a whole world to explore and if you’re down for some overlanding, you better do it wholeheartedly but wisely. Share us your overlanding experiences below.
