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I came across a story read on Story Time Reddit. The driver had an Olight Marauder 2 maximum 14,000 Lumens. He used it respond to a driver flashing his high beams in stop start driving. The flasher was enlightened. I want one but definitely don't need one.
Seriously, do I have to do your homework for you? Atto3 is cheaper than the MG and a far better EV vehicle. May be something you can pull yourself out of the cave to review like when you used to review cars....
That's it thumbs down done and here comes the snarky comment. From every mechanic in Australia will you stop telling people not to tow vehicles at their full capacity. We need to feed our families and while I totally agree with the advice, tradies will keep their utes and wagons for longer and spend less on repairs. Come on, you might even see those at Ford smile a bit more if they keep breaking down at higher rates! 😜
Own a Pajero Sport Exceed 2021, with the Mits' nudge bar with the integrated bar light, mits' tow pack and roof racks. It has been great and was vastly cheaper and more warranted than the other cars in the category. I initially was chasing a Prado, as had driven many before. Then I tested the Mits' and found it to be as good and way cheaper, without the delivery wait time and presenting with a better warranty. Interior fit out feels roughly the same class. It tows a heavy dual-axle trailer with boat weighing approximately 2.2T (monthly), whilst also doing school runs, and shopping cart duties. No probs around town, on highways and quite a cruisy vehicle overall. You will not blow any doors off anyone at the lights... Very capable 4wd out of the box, even on the factory all-terrain tyres. We drive it in constant high range 4wd on all surfaces, having had it on some challenging backcountry alpine tracks and have not as yet needed to get tricky with the diff locks or low range. Comfortable, with reasonable tech in the console such as tomtom & apple carplay etc. Hate the ergonomics of the seatbelt anchors for kiddy seats (roof mounted) and no knob for the stereo volume control. Neither are deal breakers. We are considering buying a second one to replace our runabout, given aforementioned affordability, practicality etc.
John is very good. He is the rare eternal septic and logical explainer. Most car reviews take maufacturers handouts like mana from car builders' heaven. And distribute to a gullible public.
Love your work John. Not sure where I fit in as I am a Dingo Piss Creek seeker but don't own a blue singlet or a pair of stubbles and for that matter don't have a beard to stroke either. After watching many of you videos over the last 10 plus months I decided that the replacement for my current touring vehicle (2009 ML Triton) is to be a Prado. I crunched the GVM/GCM/ATM numbers as you recommend and it was the only option that could get close to what I would need. My first preference was a Pajero Sport and it did come up in 2nd place. Even though the MUX had the highest rated tow rating it was way down the list by time you put a load in it. Yes the Prado has lower tech but that does not concern me much, having the dual tanks was a big plus, the comfort level and space is much better also. I ordered in Sept and is due for delivery in around a week, so 4 & 1/2 months wait was pretty good. It is my first Toyota but my dad had a FJ40, which was the family DPC tourer when I was much younger. Outback touring has been in my blood a long time and I will take a week or two in the middle of nowhere anytime over a motel room, even if the 'shitwoir' does cost enough to stay in one for a couple of years. I will replace our off road camper (and it actually is an off road camper) with a rugged hybrid style van in the next couple of years but will be very concious of our weight limit. Thanks for all the tips and info, you have been an invaluable resource in my decision making and also given me quite a few laughs as well. Cheers, Ian.
I would suggest they get a good semi tractor what ever is popular there Volvo, Mack, Freightliner etc. and a nice 45-50 foot long trailer so you have room to get away from her when you need to and if the trailer weighs 30,000 pounds it does not matter you could tow 80K or so pounds. Make sure the tractor has a sleeper so you have a place to sleep when she is really mad and you are all set. You could even teach her to drive it then she will really feel important.
I love my 2021 Pajero Sport GLX, bought it brand new taken it off road camping, preformed brilliantly on beach, sand dunes also great inland bush driving 😍
My real world experience. I'm retired (67) and have a 3.5t Bushtracker "full off-road" caravan. Most people who own these vans, tow them with a 200 Series Blandcruiser. The venerable Blandcruiser is right at its maximum capacity. As a bandaid measure, some owners have a GVM upgrade performed and use a weight distribution hitch. I consider both of these aspects to be a "Band-Aid" solution. We sold our home in February 2022 and embarked on the so-called "big lap". In my humble opinion, the only safe way to tow a 3.5t pig trailer is with a 5t tow vehicle. In my case it's a Chevy Silverado 3500 4x4 with a GVM of 5,171kg and a GCM of 11,113kg. I've never felt unsafe in the Chevy. I have a Airsafe Hitch (to cushion the impact of the harsh truck suspension on the trailer A frame) and would never even dream of using a WDH. I modified the Airsafe Hitch by removing the Schrader valve and plumbing it up to my on-board air system (9cfm engine-driven compressor, feeding a re-purposed 9kg LPG bottle in the canopy), so I can make minute adjustments to the pressure on-the-fly with a paddle switch and gauge next to my left leg. I have a side-view camera on the Chevy so I can monitor the action of the Airsafe Hitch as we drive. This camera is also used to aid me when hooking up to the van, as I have modified an electric jockey leg (by incorporating a remote winch control), so I can reverse up to and then raise/lower the front of the van, enabling me to hook-up single-handedly. If you don't tow a 3.5t van with a "yank tank" you'll need a light commercial truck of some sort to be safe; but they are woefully S-L-O-W. My Chevy, on the other hand, has huge power and torque: 300kw/1200NM
@@tomnewham1269 I wanted a vehicle I could still use to get to places a large motor home would not reach. Of course, these destinations have been undertaken without the shitoir hanging on the back. A couple of examples of this; we drove into the Bungles in NW Western Australia. That would have to be one of the most corrogated roads I've been on and we left the caravan at the parking area off the side of the highway. Further down the WA coast, we left the van at Denham and drove the 30+ klicks to the tip of Cape Peron. Neither of those trips (or several others) were suitable for anything other than a very robust, capable 4x4 vehicle.
I own a 2014 challenger in Guatemala. The second generation oof the pajero sport which we cal Nativa. Works fine, good transmission, 150,000 kilometers. Family loves it. Enough for touring with your spouse.
Enjoyed watching your video John as well as reading the comments. They're all the reassurance I need to hold on to my old & slow 80 series LC and 10 year old single axle pop top caravan. They are fit for purpose , and I can maintain them myself most of the time. I don't need all the "bells & whistles " to do what I do.
Big tip with the new van is get the wheels matched so they are interchangeable with the vehicle. You never know when you might need. There is a 2 in 3 chance of a puncture is on the car.
Most are standard 6 hole pattern now, it's the 'Dish' that differs. You can get adapters to fit for your car/van. Not as good as 'matched'' but a good alternative.
This old "interchangeable wheels" chestnut keeps being repeated, even though there would be a vanishingly small number of vehicle and trailer combinations where this would be achievable. Think diameter, offset, load rating, calliper clearance, overall circumstance, mudguard clearance, etc. I know people will cite examples but most involve old tech 4wds.
Hi John. I agree 100percent with your comments on limiting the weight of the van relative to the tow vehicle weight. Don't have the tail waging the dog! That has been my motto for 40 years, I have been towing big trailers and vans for over 50 years without incident. I have had so many arguments (sorry discussions) with guys who boast that their tow vehicle tows 3500 kg with no worries, some FW's even admit they often tow their van at 120 - 130 kmh. I tell them they are (explicative held back) for towing at those speeds because apart from the obvious dangers, their braking system relies on a 10 cent electrical fuse in the brake light circuit to activate the van brakes. Most of these guys just scoff at me, but their wives often look horrified (and more intelligent than the dickhead hubbies). I tell them that if the fuse blows or the trailer plug disengages or wiring is damaged or water ingress causes corrosion in the trailer plug, they have no brakes on the van. Many just shrug their shoulders. WTF? Also, in addition to the concern over the weight a vehicle should tow, I believe that the length of vans compared to the tow vehicle length is grossly overlooked. A van that is too long compared to the tow vehicle WILL wag the dog in various circumstances, regardless of its weight. I, and you (I am sure) have seen vans that appear much too long compared to the length of the tow vehicle. This can be a major contributor to excessive sway leading to "jack knife". I drive a 200 series Land Cruiser which is rated to 3500kg tow capacity. I will not tow more than my vans GTM of 2800kg. My vehicle always dictates to the van, regardless if it is on asphalt or gravel. Things need to improve.
Mitsubishi does some of the best diesel engines and 4x4 systems and whilst the Pajero Sport is still a real Mitsubishi with that warranty. It's a no brainer. I've got one of the last Diesel Outlanders and it's very surprising as a tow vehicle. It'll tow up to 2000kgs and handles a good load of refuse in the trailer and is great on dirt and rough roads. Sadly the new model is a Neeeesarn and was a definite miss for me. I don't do caravans John. I like my holidays to be free of annexes or emptying effluent tanks. So I drive around the country staying in motels or holiday cabins and I'm still financially further ahead and my car is not being overworked pulling a portaslum. I'm out in western NSW at present working and relaxing. Plenty of stressed vehicles towing portaslums in 37 degrees can't be good. I'm lucky, my wife's scared of cruises and I'm allergic to caravans and emptying festering shit.
I wholeheartedly agree, I purchased my new 2016 Pajero Sport GLS (PS) and Blue Sky 20’6” caravan for less than the price of a Land Cruiser, purchased the PS first and fitted the van to it, and stuck to max 2.2T Tare, only real mods were alloy bull bar, spotties and heavier duty Pedders springs to rear. With weight distribution hitch and the van loaded we looked to stay under 2.5T ATM, had 210kg on the ball, while we tried to minimise car payload we were well under GVM and GCM, but loaded and with 2 x passengers were over on the front axel (put down to a combination of WDH balance and bull bar). I’ve found the PS a great daily driver, recreational car and for towing, we did over 30,000km up and down the East Coast and full lap around WA towing, with no dramas, plenty of comfort, good fuel economy and plenty of off road ability when required. Even though I was happy with how the PS towed 2.5T I reckon if I buy another van I’d like to go a bit smaller and 2.0T or less. In 2020 we sold our van and I had a COVID moment in 2021 and thought I’d trade in the PS and buy a new “flasher” car, however after looking at Audis, Mercs etc, I just couldn’t justify the $ for what you get and purchased a new Pajero Sport, (with a great trade in on the old one and it’ll tow the next van 😁).
Are you able to elaborate on why you wanted to go lighter on the van? What was your experience that made you feel that way? And what length van was it? Was the length an issue too?
@@darrendunn2938 @ 20’6” the van was a great size for living in and had all the comforts we wanted (en-suite, queen size bed, full size fridge), I considered going smaller in an effort to reduce weight, improve fuel economy and for possible improved manoeuvrability, however I researched a lot and couldn’t find a considerably smaller van with the amenities and at the weight I wanted, in the end as we wanted to retain the comforts the difference between a 20’6”, 19’ & 18’ weight and footprint wise really isn’t much, so we purchased a 19’6” dual axel which is pretty much the same weight, but slightly shorter than our last.
John, your comments on loading the van and tow vehicle are very welcome. The number of people who simply think they can tow a 3500kg van with 4x4 because the glossy tells them it can tow up to that rating is concerning. For the record (I do have an off-road "Shitoire") I have a 2018 Tojo Fortuner (2.7 tonne towing capacity) and have a Kedron 16' fully off-road van with an ATM of 2.7 tonne. I will never take it over about 2.4 tonne loaded up so that I keep the tow vehicle as the dominant weight for the combination. Once again - many thanks for the balanced discussion . See you at "the creek" some time, or onboard the MV COVID Princess.
Hi JC (one of my fav YTers), I have a Paj Sport 2022 loaded with accessories including myself adding up to 370kg payload. Also has a lift kit with airbags - really helps. Towing an Austrack 15ft tare weight 2.3 and payload 250 kg (includes only 50 kg water in the tanks). No problem towing at 90 to 100 km on flat or low / short rise hills. However on climbing the Main Range or Toowoomba ranges for example PS can start to over heat if you dont watch the revs. Solution to that is put the PS in 4wd high and leave it on automatic, keep the revs below where the temp gauge moves from halfway. The cost is the embarresment of chugging along at 30km per hour for a short period of time. Otherwise PS is a good choice. :(
I'd suggest ,add up the total cost of van extra fuel burn , caravan Park fees and wear n tear , insurance etc,,leave it in the bank,,spend the saving on hotels ,and buy a touring car
It’s unfortunate that caravan & car salesman don’t listen to your advice. You speak the words of advice, that I have around that Dingo Piss Ck fire on many occasions. Well done & keep up your entertaining if given smart advice. 🍻
One of the glaring weak-links (I'd call it a design flaw) in the Pajero Sport is fuel capacity. 68 litres just doesn't cut it in the genre. With 2 tonnes in tow, you'd be looking for fuel at around 300kms, which is problematic in accessing DPC. So, you either need to carry fuel cans or add a long range tank, which are both budgetary and GVM considerations.
😂@@BatCaveOz Diesel weighs 850g per litre. A steel jerry can weighs over 4kg. Adding 4 jerry cans to a PS to be on capacity parity with a Prado adds about 85kg and consumes around 100 litres of cargo volume. In a Prado, it adds 68kgs and consumes no cargo volume. The OEM fuel volume is included in TARE mass, which means it's already accounted for (excluded) in load calculations for the Prado. That 85kg becomes part of the load in a PS, so that means less other stuff you can toss in. Then there are the factors of safety, inconvenience (handling the cans, standing in the heat / dust / rain to refuel), time, potential for contamination (rain / dust) etc. Carrying jerry cans might be fine for you, but there are much better alternatives.
My nephew has a Pajero, we recently spent a week on Moreton Island. We drove all over the island, on the beach wet and dry, coffee rocky ground, really soft dry powdery boggy sand tracks. The Pajero handled them all without a hint of problems. We did pull out a couple of bogged utes with the dreaded snatch strap, none of them were Toyotas though haha. I'd recommend the Pajero as a long term prospect for sure. Very impressed.
Hey Bargie. I bought my Pajero Sport GLS in July 2021 and now travelled over 60k. I`m 68 and it`s a very capable 4x4 off road car, comfartable and extremely fuel efficiant. A small tank of 68lt and travel well over 700km not towing. I have great fun with some other like minded people, sand, mud and climbs without doing major challenges with ease. We did our homework and found that It`s cheaper to hire a caravan than spending $50-90k and find other expenses like, that you have rego, insurance, and possably a storage charge and to the maintenance outlays. I highly recommend the the Pajero Sport, value for money, reliability and matching spare alloy wheel as what on the car the car.
I was considering Pajero Sport before watching this and now convinced thanks to you. Thanks mate.. and yes noted your physics lecture and will be limiting towing to well below manufacturers limits!
Had my car and van weighed today. Car is a 22 Paj Sport. Caravan is a jayco 17ft pop top. ATM of van was 2230. Ball was 170 so I need to some weight around. Car and van had about 200kg each of payload remaining (family were in the car). No way known I’d tow much more as I already get pitching and rolling on winding roads and am looking at a suitable suspension upgrade to assist with the rear suspension sag. This is the only part of the set up where I’m not compliant. This is our second pajero sport and we find them a great car but keep your expectations in check when thinking of towing.
Dear Mr Cadogan Can you give an update on what happened with Mr Imray's Mux statutory warranty claim concerning the fuel system. Mux is still vaguely on my list but the companies approach to respect for the law is something I would like to know more about. Regards Martin
Thanks for an informative video. You also have to take into considerstion the max axle loads as it is common that when you add the max towball weight onto your vehicle you have reached the axle load rating without any back seat passengers or gear in your boot. Steel bullbars are known to overload the front axle too! Only put on the minimum of accessories as you stated. Regards Ian
Another great review, thanks John . However I really get tired of the Y62 patrol being overlooked as a reliable towing vehicle . It might be getting a bit outdated but it still works exceptionally well , and you save 30k plus , and you can actually buy one . Yes , it's petrol but contrary to some of the experts in this industry , present company excepted , it is better on fuel than a cruiser. 18.1l to100 km towing 2.5ton . And you can actually buy one . That's nice . Nissan has looked after any issues I have had and I haven't had to join any class actions to get anything done. Regards Dave Roberts
Lol and what do you think the Land cruiser does? The old one with a tune did about 11-12 km/100 while the new one stock does the same, loaded it does about 17L/100km while towing a 3-3.2 Tn trailer 👀 so how's the petrol better? The landcruiser has two tanks while the patrol doesn't 👀 😂 so don't use the landcruiser as a comparison the only advantage the patrol has is price
@@rossatkinson3160 haha, in my local language there's a proverb that says "a good thing will sell itself while a bad one will need alot of 'word-of-mouth' marketing" mans thought he had struck gold with the patrol 😂 gibberish, he thinks the LC is popular because people are fools, the LC is not perfect but it ticks alot of boxes especially in cost of maintenance and reliability. Hell, it's expensive because it's so popular not because of anything else.
@@mwat22 mate the test have shown there lighter on fuel in towing comparisons, the 5.6 ltr is bullet proof and in the middle east and US those engines are more popular than a diesel landcruiser v8 and desert and commercial work really bad conditions, they also were in nissan v8 super cars. It's just that Australians are diesel crazy so they won't consider anything else. You're analogy is basically saying Mac Donalds are good because there popular so if you could get a cheap er more tasty, less known KFC down road ,don't buy it because it's not as popular because people have never tried it
Retired early myself and have been out there for ten years now. Just me and the dog as she got the house so I live in the Caravan so firstly I find that the insurance on anything "off road" is incredibly expensive. I personally do any off road stuff with a vehicle only and a tent and minimal "Stuff" but that is just me but you wont tow anything across the Simpson Desert for example. Next bit is that towing a caravan on bad roads and the like will usually cause them to leak water when it rains so I keep my caravan on the bitumen because yes I live in it and do not tow it back to suburbia every few weeks and park it somewhere and who knows where you will end up storing the thing until the next adventure if indeed there ever will be another adventure as statistically speaking about half of couples only ever do it once so there is that. One piece of advice is that you don't need half the stuff that you think you will so pack lightly and yes i have seen them come into the caravan park and set up the outdoor setting and the Weber and the large freezer full of food and then go down town for a meal at the RSL.
Hey John, we have already purchased the top of the line Mitsubishi Ute 3 years ago. We have a light weight rack el cheapo Kings awning & recovery points & clamshell lid. All that said 150k later of happy motoring, we purchased a 14 foot Semi off road caravan. Van has a tare of 1683kg etc. Our main problem is we need promptly supplied parts to cover warranty problems, eg tail lights & storage locker surrounds to prevent further water inundation. So because of the warranty issues we’ve only been able to use it for a few months in the last 12 months. Still waiting for replacement tail light so we’re not easy prey for police revenue donations. So the lap has been delayed permanently until it’s fixed and effects of Wet season is fully over. Thank you Snowy River maybe you were right JC , 60k would buy lots of luxury accommodation. SO BUYER BEWARE.
The introduction in itself is absolutely masterful [although I think that word is now on the banned list]! Thank you for providing some levity in and amongst all this gloom John.
What can be a sad story... Retirement after 60 years of age big spend on the Super $100,000+ each on the van and vehicle then somewhere up in some large or small town in northern Australia dad has a health event usually to do with the ticker the big adventure turns sour and mum is sitting in a van park if she's lucky with what has become a huge millstone around her neck working out what to do next .This scenario is happening regularly and needs consideration when planning the big trek .
My mum did a lot of the driving after husband number 4 had a stroke. They still had many good years of caravanning before they had to call it a day. Agreed that the health check should probably be the first consideration but you are also assuming that the woman isn’t capable or keen to keep going. In my mum’s case, both were true.
With a little experience, it’s not hard to research a car and a caravan before purchasing and calculate the weights, including accessories. The important thing to remember is all these weights are limits and you don’t have to get close to them. When calculating, allow at least a 10% buffer. True off-road capable vans are out there. Compact Hybrids with ATMs around the 2t. Capable of doing the Vic High Country, Cape York, Teli track and others along with desert crossings.
One thing you forgot to mention is GCM & GVM, and legal towing mass if car is fully loaded to GVM. The GCM of the Pajero Sport GLS is 5,565 kg, and with the GVM of 2,775 kg maxed out you can only tow 2,790 kg (Redbook data). Although you are recommending to tow no more than 2,200 kg, unfortunately many people don't look at the numbers correctly and ignore GCM - they just see the GVM and what it can tow not realising that if you do tow what the manufacturer says it can, you cannot load your tow vehicle to its GVM.
Excellent content. I'm back in civilization now and have seen the length and breadth of possible off-road setups. The short story is that everything is a compromise. No set up is perfect. You need to do what's right for you and your wants, needs and budget.
Haven't ever towed with my Pajero Sport but as a camping and off road vehicle I find it pretty good really. Capable off road, cruises long distances very easily, 4wd system is very easy to use and works very well, Google maps through entertainment system is great and downloading the maps beforehand onto the phone means it will work even out of service areas area are a few things I like. I don't hammer mine but it's done some stuff that has made me clench a bit at times and I will usually give up before it does. I've even found some bits and pieces for camping so that storage etc is pretty good as well when organized. Cheaper than most others in its class as well, at least when I bought mine. It's been a good thing.
I also have a Pajero Sport I have owned for nearly six years. I have done a lot of caravan towing in that time. Our van weighs about the same as the car. I am very happy with the Pajero Sport as a tow vehicle. We have now done over 110,000 km. The only issues we have had is a cracked exhaust manifold and leaking front shocks. The shocks I consider to be fair wear tear given how much towing we have done. The mechanic told me he has replaced a few Pajero Sport manifolds. He suspects they have a design flaw. The only things I don’t like about the car are the headlight performance and the fuel range when towing. I have fitted driving lights to address the headlight issue. I could fit a long range fuel tank, but I don’t think it’s worth the expense. I just take extra fuel in jerrycans. Would I buy another one? I won’t know until I have done about 190,000 km in my current vehicle. If it is reliable over the next 80,000 km, then I definitely would get a new Pajero Sport.
@@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars Mine is a base model 5 seater so I really have no idea tbh. Things that others have said are issues about the vehicle really don't worry me as I'm usually the only one in the vehicle. If it wasn't such a pia legally and I had somewhere to store it the backseat would be out of mine as well. Sorry I can't be more helpful.
@@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars The seat belt buckles are a bit fiddly but otherwise it's fine once you've done it a few times. But intuitive it's not. Certainly not a deal breaker.
Hi John, there is an alternative which a few people I know have taken and that is a 4x4 truck, either Iveco or Isuzu. My son works at a dealership and says people are starting to buy rather than Landcruiser's.
Love the information as always John. If ever I need info on a subject I like to come to your channel. I'll watch, listen and chuckle then do more research based on what you've said. I often refer people to your channel as well. Always learning. Warm regards Gozzy!
There are actually trucks on Australian roads that are not diesel powered. There’s an “e-power” Mitsubishi canter getting around where I live. But that’s the only one out of thousands. And it does one specific run once per day.
I agree a 4x4 diesel wagon is a good towing vehicle it's doesn't matter what breed of 4x4 diesel wagon it is as long as it brakes good and the driver doesn't speed up on the over taking lanes
Great video, Don't hold it against me but I am a kiwi. Most people over here have no idea of there caravan weight and do they not want to know. The common tow truck is the Japanese 4x4 or the ford ranger. They put luggage bins on the caravan draw bar and load them up with more stuff. They have no idea of the tow ball downward weight. Unfortunately there will be a bad accident with a overweight caravan or motorhome and the police will start checking weights. I have a Iveco Van motorhome, it has a max weight of 3.8 Ton. Because it is over 3.5t it needs a COF which is a heavy truck 6 monthly inspection. When they test my brakes the machine also weights and shows my axle weights, so I know exactly what weight I am. I am over weight on my rear axle so I have to throw some stuff. At all Road worthy vehicle inspections the vehicle should be weighted, this would make things safer.
Always good to hear your opinion (Jc) As a 2022 exceed owner and previous triton owner, the Ps is a vast improvement ,especially the 8sp box. On the triton, the turbo lag is way more noticeable. With regard to using the PS to go to piss dingo ville-dont, forget the spare turbo intercooler hoses ( can't believe mitsi hasn't sorted this shiyt out yet??). Also for those who may consider a Roof top tent for their PS-the dynamic and static load limits are really designed for perhaps-----very very under nourished pigmeys. Also- when servicing -watch out for those service departments that love to charge for those gold plated cabin filters ????? Peace ✌️
More and more people seem to be buying what some would call a Yank tank - huge, imported behemoths that take up 2-4 car spaces when you're parking the buggers - and using these to tow a van. Please JC, can you cast your learned eye over this group of vehicles without prejudice? Fuel economy, spare parts network, towing capacity... Thanks.
Just a thought John, maybe mention weight distribution in a trailer - not too much weight in the back - causes grief . Yaw welcome. Also, speaking of electric vehicles, a channel "Aging Wheels" did a very interesting explanation of charging the things today. Battery voltage, charge times, charge stations etc etc blah blah. Informative. Luv your work
Hello. Love ur blunt honesty. I have been lookn @ the pajeros. With the 700kg payloads, is it not possible to increase it by installn aftermarket suspension? Or is this too $$expensive or just a gimmick. Thanks, George sa.
I currently own a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and overall I agree with you, there genuinely is nothing better value for the money. Capable reliable comfortable. Having said that I am replacing mine with an Ineos Grenadier and yes it basically to see me into retirement. I know you won’t approve as it’s niche and unproven but the fundamentals are are very good. It’s something of a risk but one I’m willing to take.
Nice choice. I want a Grenadier, but the recent $14K price hike means I'll be waiting a little longer. It's been created with passion and backed by money, so I expect any teething issues to be sorted promptly.
I hired a Pajero whilst my Hilux was in for crash repair. I learnt how hiring a vehicle can be a good way to see if that vehicle was worth buying. Answer was no. During the weeks I had it the quality of the interior and the dangerous lag when pulling onto a roundabout from the Turbo was a big issue. It was a brand new car but the stitching on the rear seats started to come undone in that short time. Other plastic items simply fell off.
Hi John, really enjoy the honest and straight forward review and updates. I have been towing big things for a number of years and totally agree with your views on weights and driver experience. Some feedback on your comments re LC300, which I ordered back in Feb 2022. Less about the vehicle but more about the service from Toyota, which is unsurprisingly ‘less than optimal’. Toyota’s website states the obvious, delays beyond our control etc etc and you should consult your dealer. Problem with that is the dealer treats its customers like mushrooms. A monthly update that says, no updates, no potential delivery date - you know the drill. I have been (for better or worse) a rusted on LC customer for longer than I remember but am now questioning my loyalty, something Toyota clearly dont give a shit about.
As one of the “living the dream” bogans Mr C so wonderfully describes, I’d like to say this is all fabulous advice. I suspect there are more overweight rig combinations out there than we care to imagine. One point I’d love to see clarified is whether rear suspension upgrades on vehicles like the Pajero allow for the capacity to load it beyond the manufacturer’s specifications and increase the overall GCM rating.
G'Day John, I tend to agree with most of your Cryptic Comments regarding the Pajero Sport. We have a 17Mod PS and it suits our needs to a T. You are Spot On with your recommendation for not towing anything heavier than 2.2t with a PS as IMO they would struggle towing anything heavier (as in the 2.5-2.7t range). They are after all only a 2.4lt pushing around 2.5t with all the usual bolt on accessories that us Strayan's like to fit to a 4WD. We do have an Aluminium Shitswaah (and yes it is an Off-Road Van) we tow, which is 1750kg fully loaded and to me that is ideal as the PS does tow it quite well. I looked at a number of other options before purchasing the PS and found it the best value for money with good off-road performance and reliability. By the Way, can you send me the Coordinates for Dingo Piss Creek as I am yet to find it on the Map. I did hear that it is within CooWee of "Out the back of BumF##k"...Keep the post coming. Alot of people Love to Hate You, but I guess they have no sense of humour and are as Boring as Bat Shit....LOL
MH17 didn't spear into the ocean John. The Russians (or proxies of) took it out over Ukraine with a missile from a Buk launcher. Other than that, agreement fully here with your towing recommendations. Luv your work. Keep it up. Steve Lane Townsville...
Hi John, you are such a funny bugger, i was thinking of buying a 4x4 but at my age 76 i probably wouldn't live to see it delivered . Six wives !!! what perserverance !!!
Prado 180 litres of fuel capacity and no matter what you drive , you are not going anywhere without fuel, and I had a Pajero and it was very fussy on fuel, any contamination and it would stop on every corner on the way home and contamination is a big worry out back. The same with my sons Mits Magna , we would sell the fuel to his brother in law with a Hyundai used it no worries .
I don’t want to say it but the prado great choice is heavier so you can safely tow upto 2.5 tons the extra power is good compared to the Mitsubishi it’s also better off-road and being a Toyota it will go the distance but if price is the limiting factor the Mitsubishi Pajero sport is a good option.
Maybe the road to dingo piss creek should be upgraded to 2wd vehicles,save a lot of people a lot of money and maybe super chargers along the way for the muskrats
I’m in the process of researching my future accommodation options. And it seems that as we continue to see price increases across the board, living full time in a motorhome is looking more and more financially stable. I’m currently single. In the correct setup, I can choose to live remote, in a car park, even hooked up in a caravan park. And as for working, in these modern times of remote working options, it’s even more possible. So depending on what this guy is wanting from retirement, a motorhome could be that different pov.
Well I spent a few months working from my caravan last year and it was way more expensive than living at home. You get bored of places pretty quick and fuel is expensive. Had a great time though. If you're trying to save money take up a new hobby like gardening, and wwoof your way around Australia instead, this will also be less boring if you're travelling by yourself.
@@FourLowAdventures "You get bored of places pretty quick..." sez you. Some people, especially those for whom their brain cells and synapses still function in accordance with original design specifications, find it hard to understand why anyone would get bored anywhere. I'm over 40 years into retirement and continue to be amazed that I ever found the time to undertake paid employment.
@@DrakeN-ow1im so you're saying if you leave your house, community and all of the familiar faces you know so that you can live by yourself in a caravan in some showgrounds in the middle of nowhere you won't get bored? You will end up mentally ill like the people that already do that. To enjoy it you have to go to nice places where there is tourism and these places are expensive even in a caravan or motor home that's already been paid for.
@@FourLowAdventures at this time, in my area, rents for a 2 bedroom unit start at $400 pw, add essentials; food & utilities, internet, phone and vehicle costs. That doesn’t leave a lot of play money. In a motor home, you still have food and vehicle costs, but you no longer need rent or utilities. Yes costs for the vehicle are increased, however not to the extent that it becomes cheaper, at this time nor in the foreseeable future. For me… The option or someone who already owns there home would be considerably different. And should consider their options relevant to their situation. As should anyone looking to make such a lifestyle change. Living full time in a motorhome or van, is a very different mindset to that of living in a brick and mortar home.
Hi John, Usual quality of content, enjoyed listening to you and the way you explain things. Personally I am or at least used to be a camper trailer supporter, tow vehicle wasn't really an issue, enjoyed the living outside the box and not in it. Practical for what we wanted, if space was tight or a CP was overcrowded we could usually squeeze in somewhere. Good to go more or less anywhere, we had a couple of TVans and also a couple of Kimberly Kampers over the years, build quality has been good, found the Kimberly Kamper had a bit too much canvas, the TVan was my favorite however access to the sleeping area was always a bit of a challenge, the front always felt a bit claustrophobic. Keep em coming John.
Bought a 22 Toyota Fortuner for this task John. Extremely happy with my value for money choice 56 k with tow bar, snorkel and weather shields. Looking for something around 1800 to 2000 kg for accommodation to tow to Dingo Piss Creek.👌
i almost purchased the pajero but got the mux instead and still today think i did not purchase it due too per presser due too i still think its the best buy but i would not stupe too the level of o you need a hilux or a prado too tow that lol it was bad enough spending half the amount on the 4x4 just too tow a over priced camper trailer too spend time with wife and kids but end of day would not change it for the world so far the 4x4 is the wifes daily driver and its done 18k and the trailer has done 10k of that and we love it i think you would not go wrong buying the mitsubishi triton or pajero and on the tow yes john is write stick too the 2 tonne towing you will enjoy the drive much more
Front axle limit on a Pajero Sport QE of 1260kg can also be problematic with a heavy bull bar as I'm finding out when I drive to the shops with the missus (#2). A bit of weight on the towbar might help there.
We had narrowed our options to the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu Dmax. Without even giving a thought to a Mitsubishi or even knowing they made the Pajero Sport. I hire new Toyota Landcruiser’s regularly for work in the outback and have done hundreds of thousands of kilometres in them on both off-road and on-road. In my opinion the ride in the Pajero Sport blows those overpriced shit-boxes away and we feel so much safer driving this car with the ability to drive in 4X4 even on the road, especially when we are towing. We have had the car for a while now and tested its ability for off-roading in Dingo Piss Creek, the towing ability with our 2200Kg camper, as well as lots of city driving. We are blown away with the refinement of this car that has this much off-road ability. The car has exceeded our expectations and we are so pleased we did not waist the extra thousands of dollars on those other brands.
Hi John, I bought 2 Olights; Bloody Fantastic! I also now Recommend Olight. Malcolm, Nth Queensland, Australia. (I have the "hunting kit", telescope on top, torch underneath, "Bloody Oath"
Hi Johnny I took your advice 18 months ago and ordered a Pajero sports GLS 4x4. I’ve had the car 13 months and nothing but issues. Rear door won’t operate at times. Sensors going off for no reason slamming on the breaks not good with a car on your ass. Back to Mitsubishi next week for the 3rd time. My first Mitsubishi and last. Back to Isuzu.
If you really must get that extra large bull bar on the front of the vehicle, you might be able to offset front axle weight by requesting Belle de Jour (#x) to recline suggestively in the backseat.
Sorry smartass dude but this was a really good video. I agree with everything you said and it is good to hear real common sense advice re towing in Australia and the proper place for evs. I also recommended the P Sport to my daughter and husband for the exact reasons you stated. Sorry but you did well. I am 63 and retired for some years and have a "real" 4wd and off road van and it has been where most don't take a van and I do have a winch because I travel solo there is a good chance I will need it when out at Shits Creek with no "normal" person within cooee. :)
Do the folks with the flashing lights on top ever check any of these rigs? Some of the ones I see coming through our small town have to be overweight, especially with the tinny on the roof and the outboard strapped to the caravan. Back seat full of gear and massive toolboxes on the drawbar.
I have seen stories where the Police will sit at a popular spot and pull over rigs and weigh them. Seems to happen more lately from what I've seen. Lots of people didn't go any further once weighed in the story I saw. Interesting insurance issues as well if something goes wrong and you're overweight.
I'm not a big fan of government red tape or layers of bureaucracy getting to involved in our lives, but I would absolutely support the introduction of some sort of towing licence or at least towing accreditation that needs to be obtained by anyone towing a caravan ( or braked trailer over 750kg). There is a growing ticking time bomb of major road accidents out there on our roads waiting to happen that grows each day as each and every caravan leaves the dealership.
thankfully in the UK, nowhere is further than a tank of gas away... and, when you get there, theres either a 4 star hotel, air BNB... or even a stop n screw for 35 quid a nite... sadly, cheaper options are available... I'm 66 this year, my days of student surfing and dossing in my Land Rover 2a are, like hair (a receeding memory...) But, you got a mention off Shaun Wale and Graham Cahill on 4WD 247... might be worth mentioning they do a brutal UTE roadtest every year... and, if nothing else, it's entertaining. Very much like yourself...
If capital cost (and fuel cost) isn't an issue, an Iveco Daily 4X4 would be a better option. More than enough towing capacity to tow a decent caravan, and plenty of both the GVM and GCM left over to carry the kitchen sink... errr... I mean the lady wife's handbag. 😉
The Iveco daily 4x4 isn't the most reliable vehicle. The GCM is good with them however when derated to 4.5t GVM for a car licence the payload is only 1.5t. A 70 series Landcruiser ute for comparison has a 1.3t payload at max GVM so there isn't that much difference. Both are rated to tow 3.5t at max GVM and not exceed GCM. The real advantage of light trucks like Iveco, Fuso, Hino and Isuzu can only be realised if you are prepared to get a light truck licence and drive them using their 5.5-7.5t GVM rating. With 2.5t-4.5t payload nothing needs to be left behind.
The thing that I thought the Iveco had over something like a 70-series was that the tare mass would be higher, making the 1:1 mass rule more likely to work for larger trailers, but having just gone looking for tare mass info for the Daily 4x4, I've found that there's a lot less difference than I thought there was. Certainly, the Iveco with a tray will weigh 300-400kg more than a 79-series dual cab with a tray, but that's quite a bit less than I thought it would be. I see your point about the car licence, and some people probably wouldn't see the point in getting a light rigid licence, but it isn't hard to get, and it does open up the options for considerably higher carrying capacity. My licence is for heavy rigid, and there's no way that my wife would drive a truck, so getting the higher capacity version would be a no-brainer for me, but not everyone would agree.
lol to add to the other comment I get the mussos as they are cheap and work... then you can beat the shyt out of it and not worry about resale. in the end its the same depreciation and you actually had fun and not coddling resale.
Excellent video. It really brings home that towing vans (or shitwaas) is a science. I have said for years, going by what I have seen on the road, is that there probably should be a license requirement for towing vans/trailers/shitwaas over xxx kgs. Say anything over 1500 kgs would be a good starting point. It is amazing how many people do not understand what they are towing in relation to the capability of the vehicle. PS as a Triton owner myself, can't go wrong with a Mits. For their price you get good bang for buck and are reliable, proven workhorses. Pajero Sport will be a good option for this bloke.
Could you do a video on the American trucks we see on the road? The F150, 250 Ram, Silverado, etc. Would love to see your take on these rigs, pros and cons, towing.
@@davidnobular9220 If only the people united and said No. We make our choices, not you. or stopped pushing something that ran cobalt mined via child slavery/slavery from o/seas or lithium that miners have a low lifespan in various countries as they virtue signal battery everything. Can't believe people don't push back. Not even for the gas stove etc rubbish agenda. Baaaaaaa.
@@shutthegate8232 Part of the reason they don't is because a lot of them are very on board with this. The way I see it, if we get rid of the very thing that made our current civilisation (ie oil etc) then we will regress big time. Maybe even back to the Stone Age... I have said this in the past, but I work with otherwise perfectly logical technical people who honestly believe that we will be fine if we turn off gas and coal power gen tomorrow. It's a scary world out there.....
Hey John, just a thought. Does any manufacturer produce a hybrid diesel? Just as a thought looking towards the future. Would it be a good or bad idea? Could it even be produced? I look forward to your thoughts. Regards DP
John your Intro to this video had me almost (but not quite) "going poopy in my trousers" (excuse the use of the phrase however I do on (regular) occasions take special note of a great (& IMO not recognised sufficiently) and forthright "Sage" & he uses that phrase, so it MUST be permitted). The phrase that had me laughing out loud was that of the "Safety wearing thongs" which for your edification (undoubtedly you don't require), is precisely what myself and my travelling "pal" called the endless use of the ubiquitous "flip flops" (aka thongs) as safety footwear on EVERY building site by everyone involved in Vietnam (a place I am extremely familiar and fond of). I could imagine someone, anyone turning up on any building site in dear old Straylya wearing the thongs as safety footwear, there would be conniptions. Thanks for the output of your Vids and thanks for being humorous and serious as the same time, a gen X,Y,Z couldn't manage it, EVER. LD
MU-X does not have a centre diff. When in 4H or 4L it's a 50/50 torque split front / rear. 4WD should not be engaged on high traction surfaces ie bitumen. Otherwise damage can occur to the transmission some times called transmission wind up.
So what vehicle should I be looking at if the hybrid caravan has a gtm of 2800kg? Mits ps or triton look like they’re out. Gonna have to wait for stock with everything else
I'm looking at getting a Musso. I'm not after hard core 4 x 4, not towing a caravan. Just something to take me on my grand fishing tour from Eyre Peninsula to s.w. Oz. and access to remote beaches.
Nice JC, try and tell that to my wife who just knows that her horse friends already tow 3+ ton with a D-Max and they say it is fine. So now she wants a 3 and 1/2 ton towing capacity vehicle to tow the PAL factory candidates around with. She won’t listen to me or yourself as her friends know better.
Not all want to go to DPC personally it doesn't interest me I'm much happier to travel on bitumen with a small van and visit the smaller parks on the coast. MH 17 comment was a bit much at least get the event correct.
Buy a Ssangyong Rexton. Excellent value for money and built like a tank, 7 year warranty. Plenty of torque where you need it. Not sure why you would go for a Pajero. They are outdated now and are under powered for towing. Drive both and you will see what I mean.
Advantage Pajero is dealership support in remote regions also if you need a spare its likely to be in state. In case of landcruisers and hiluxes most remote garages are experts on them and carry common spares..
@@margaretbutler4545 yes, that is sort of true. Except as I recently experienced while in Canberra, my turbo down pipe needed replacing. Mitsubishi told me it would be six months till parts would be Available. When I returned home to the local dealership in NSW they told me the same thing. Times have changed and dealers don’t stock parts unless they are common things for servicing. If I was driving remote, I would carry them with me anyway. Just checked and Mitsubishi has 1 dealership in the Northern Territory and Ssangyong has 2. Like I said, times have changed.
Hi John, in countries that have a decent recharging network like there in SheepShaggerStan, an EV can be contemplated as a tow vehicle for a caravan. Currently (sic) there are several Hyundai/Kia EV models capable of hauling 1500kg, which is right on the money for a mid-size single-axle caravan. The big plus is that you can stop anywhere and use the EV to power up the caravan for a minimal loss of range. A smaller plus is all that access to instant torque. An EV initially shifts a caravan much easier than any diesel. Owners of EV-towed caravans report a 20 per cent loss of range when hooked up and driving down the highway. That's hardly the 'falling off a cliff' you mention.
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Alright, here's some hate, fatman: What happened to your Rant channel?
I came across a story read on Story Time Reddit. The driver had an Olight Marauder 2 maximum 14,000 Lumens. He used it respond to a driver flashing his high beams in stop start driving.
The flasher was enlightened.
I want one but definitely don't need one.
Seriously, do I have to do your homework for you? Atto3 is cheaper than the MG and a far better EV vehicle. May be something you can pull yourself out of the cave to review like when you used to review cars....
That's it thumbs down done and here comes the snarky comment. From every mechanic in Australia will you stop telling people not to tow vehicles at their full capacity. We need to feed our families and while I totally agree with the advice, tradies will keep their utes and wagons for longer and spend less on repairs. Come on, you might even see those at Ford smile a bit more if they keep breaking down at higher rates! 😜
Dear John
Please share your feedback on the Ineos Grenadier.
Own a Pajero Sport Exceed 2021, with the Mits' nudge bar with the integrated bar light, mits' tow pack and roof racks. It has been great and was vastly cheaper and more warranted than the other cars in the category. I initially was chasing a Prado, as had driven many before. Then I tested the Mits' and found it to be as good and way cheaper, without the delivery wait time and presenting with a better warranty. Interior fit out feels roughly the same class. It tows a heavy dual-axle trailer with boat weighing approximately 2.2T (monthly), whilst also doing school runs, and shopping cart duties. No probs around town, on highways and quite a cruisy vehicle overall. You will not blow any doors off anyone at the lights... Very capable 4wd out of the box, even on the factory all-terrain tyres. We drive it in constant high range 4wd on all surfaces, having had it on some challenging backcountry alpine tracks and have not as yet needed to get tricky with the diff locks or low range. Comfortable, with reasonable tech in the console such as tomtom & apple carplay etc. Hate the ergonomics of the seatbelt anchors for kiddy seats (roof mounted) and no knob for the stereo volume control. Neither are deal breakers. We are considering buying a second one to replace our runabout, given aforementioned affordability, practicality etc.
Agreed on everything, I own a QE Exceed & tow similar weight, absolutely love it apart from the bloody car seat anchor points being in the roof 🤣
Good sensible car, good price for what it is, good value and reliable.
😊
Just don't look at it from behind. That would push me into the arms of a MUX
@@darrenflanagan
Appearance is subjective. Many people (me included) think the look is fine. Some really like the look.
John is very good. He is the rare eternal septic and logical explainer. Most car reviews take maufacturers handouts like mana from car builders' heaven. And distribute to a gullible public.
Wish we had an eternal 'septic', that never needed pumping out.
eternal septic sounds like he is full of shit. Maybe you mean he knows his shit and would give that the 👍
Do you mean sceptic , or are you suggesting that he is full of shit ?
@@paulwalker9014 I am septical of that.
I think you meant “Skeptic,” although his words are occasionally “Septic” to the object of his diatribe! 😂😂😂😂 😂
Love your work John. Not sure where I fit in as I am a Dingo Piss Creek seeker but don't own a blue singlet or a pair of stubbles and for that matter don't have a beard to stroke either.
After watching many of you videos over the last 10 plus months I decided that the replacement for my current touring vehicle (2009 ML Triton) is to be a Prado.
I crunched the GVM/GCM/ATM numbers as you recommend and it was the only option that could get close to what I would need. My first preference was a Pajero Sport and it did come up in 2nd place. Even though the MUX had the highest rated tow rating it was way down the list by time you put a load in it.
Yes the Prado has lower tech but that does not concern me much, having the dual tanks was a big plus, the comfort level and space is much better also.
I ordered in Sept and is due for delivery in around a week, so 4 & 1/2 months wait was pretty good. It is my first Toyota but my dad had a FJ40, which was the family DPC tourer when I was much younger.
Outback touring has been in my blood a long time and I will take a week or two in the middle of nowhere anytime over a motel room, even if the 'shitwoir' does cost enough to stay in one for a couple of years.
I will replace our off road camper (and it actually is an off road camper) with a rugged hybrid style van in the next couple of years but will be very concious of our weight limit.
Thanks for all the tips and info, you have been an invaluable resource in my decision making and also given me quite a few laughs as well. Cheers, Ian.
2020 pajero nx?
I would suggest they get a good semi tractor what ever is popular there Volvo, Mack, Freightliner etc. and a nice 45-50 foot long trailer so you have room to get away from her when you need to and if the trailer weighs 30,000 pounds it does not matter you could tow 80K or so pounds. Make sure the tractor has a sleeper so you have a place to sleep when she is really mad and you are all set. You could even teach her to drive it then she will really feel important.
‘Slickest promotional integration’, it was so smooth I didn’t even see you change your cap. Nice one.
I love my 2021 Pajero Sport GLX, bought it brand new taken it off road camping, preformed brilliantly on beach, sand dunes also great inland bush driving 😍
I like the ad pivot at the start of the video John. Might be the best segue I have ever seen. 13 points out of a possible 10 there.
It was pretty slick...
My real world experience. I'm retired (67) and have a 3.5t Bushtracker "full off-road" caravan. Most people who own these vans, tow them with a 200 Series Blandcruiser.
The venerable Blandcruiser is right at its maximum capacity. As a bandaid measure, some owners have a GVM upgrade performed and use a weight distribution hitch. I consider both of these aspects to be a "Band-Aid" solution.
We sold our home in February 2022 and embarked on the so-called "big lap".
In my humble opinion, the only safe way to tow a 3.5t pig trailer is with a 5t tow vehicle. In my case it's a Chevy Silverado 3500 4x4 with a GVM of 5,171kg and a GCM of 11,113kg.
I've never felt unsafe in the Chevy. I have a Airsafe Hitch (to cushion the impact of the harsh truck suspension on the trailer A frame) and would never even dream of using a WDH. I modified the Airsafe Hitch by removing the Schrader valve and plumbing it up to my on-board air system (9cfm engine-driven compressor, feeding a re-purposed 9kg LPG bottle in the canopy), so I can make minute adjustments to the pressure on-the-fly with a paddle switch and gauge next to my left leg.
I have a side-view camera on the Chevy so I can monitor the action of the Airsafe Hitch as we drive. This camera is also used to aid me when hooking up to the van, as I have modified an electric jockey leg (by incorporating a remote winch control), so I can reverse up to and then raise/lower the front of the van, enabling me to hook-up single-handedly.
If you don't tow a 3.5t van with a "yank tank" you'll need a light commercial truck of some sort to be safe; but they are woefully S-L-O-W. My Chevy, on the other hand, has huge power and torque: 300kw/1200NM
May I ask why didn’t you buy an off-road Winnebago like vehicle?
@@tomnewham1269 I wanted a vehicle I could still use to get to places a large motor home would not reach.
Of course, these destinations have been undertaken without the shitoir hanging on the back.
A couple of examples of this; we drove into the Bungles in NW Western Australia. That would have to be one of the most corrogated roads I've been on and we left the caravan at the parking area off the side of the highway.
Further down the WA coast, we left the van at Denham and drove the 30+ klicks to the tip of Cape Peron.
Neither of those trips (or several others) were suitable for anything other than a very robust, capable 4x4 vehicle.
Do you have a beard though?
@bobkats of course I do. Who's got time in retirement to waste time scraping a sharp blade across ones wrinkley old dermis?
Small man syndrome
I own a 2014 challenger in Guatemala. The second generation oof the pajero sport which we cal Nativa. Works fine, good transmission, 150,000 kilometers. Family loves it. Enough for touring with your spouse.
Enjoyed watching your video John as well as reading the comments. They're all the reassurance I need to hold on to my old & slow 80 series LC and 10 year old single axle pop top caravan. They are fit for purpose , and I can maintain them myself most of the time. I don't need all the "bells & whistles " to do what I do.
Big tip with the new van is get the wheels matched so they are interchangeable with the vehicle. You never know when you might need. There is a 2 in 3 chance of a puncture is on the car.
*Puncture
Excellent point.
Most are standard 6 hole pattern now, it's the 'Dish' that differs. You can get adapters to fit for your car/van. Not as good as 'matched'' but a good alternative.
Yeah.....I came across a puncher but I was able to block them.
This old "interchangeable wheels" chestnut keeps being repeated, even though there would be a vanishingly small number of vehicle and trailer combinations where this would be achievable. Think diameter, offset, load rating, calliper clearance, overall circumstance, mudguard clearance, etc. I know people will cite examples but most involve old tech 4wds.
Hi John. I agree 100percent with your comments on limiting the weight of the van relative to the tow vehicle weight. Don't have the tail waging the dog! That has been my motto for 40 years, I have been towing big trailers and vans for over 50 years without incident. I have had so many arguments (sorry discussions) with guys who boast that their tow vehicle tows 3500 kg with no worries, some FW's even admit they often tow their van at 120 - 130 kmh. I tell them they are (explicative held back) for towing at those speeds because apart from the obvious dangers, their braking system relies on a 10 cent electrical fuse in the brake light circuit to activate the van brakes. Most of these guys just scoff at me, but their wives often look horrified (and more intelligent than the dickhead hubbies). I tell them that if the fuse blows or the trailer plug disengages or wiring is damaged or water ingress causes corrosion in the trailer plug, they have no brakes on the van. Many just shrug their shoulders. WTF?
Also, in addition to the concern over the weight a vehicle should tow, I believe that the length of vans compared to the tow vehicle length is grossly overlooked. A van that is too long compared to the tow vehicle WILL wag the dog in various circumstances, regardless of its weight. I, and you (I am sure) have seen vans that appear much too long compared to the length of the tow vehicle. This can be a major contributor to excessive sway leading to "jack knife".
I drive a 200 series Land Cruiser which is rated to 3500kg tow capacity. I will not tow more than my vans GTM of 2800kg. My vehicle always dictates to the van, regardless if it is on asphalt or gravel.
Things need to improve.
Mitsubishi does some of the best diesel engines and 4x4 systems and whilst the Pajero Sport is still a real Mitsubishi with that warranty. It's a no brainer. I've got one of the last Diesel Outlanders and it's very surprising as a tow vehicle. It'll tow up to 2000kgs and handles a good load of refuse in the trailer and is great on dirt and rough roads. Sadly the new model is a Neeeesarn and was a definite miss for me. I don't do caravans John. I like my holidays to be free of annexes or emptying effluent tanks. So I drive around the country staying in motels or holiday cabins and I'm still financially further ahead and my car is not being overworked pulling a portaslum. I'm out in western NSW at present working and relaxing. Plenty of stressed vehicles towing portaslums in 37 degrees can't be good. I'm lucky, my wife's scared of cruises and I'm allergic to caravans and emptying festering shit.
…laugh 🤣
You got my vote on that one farken i do the same .
I wholeheartedly agree, I purchased my new 2016 Pajero Sport GLS (PS) and Blue Sky 20’6” caravan for less than the price of a Land Cruiser, purchased the PS first and fitted the van to it, and stuck to max 2.2T Tare, only real mods were alloy bull bar, spotties and heavier duty Pedders springs to rear.
With weight distribution hitch and the van loaded we looked to stay under 2.5T ATM, had 210kg on the ball, while we tried to minimise car payload we were well under GVM and GCM, but loaded and with 2 x passengers were over on the front axel (put down to a combination of WDH balance and bull bar). I’ve found the PS a great daily driver, recreational car and for towing, we did over 30,000km up and down the East Coast and full lap around WA towing, with no dramas, plenty of comfort, good fuel economy and plenty of off road ability when required.
Even though I was happy with how the PS towed 2.5T I reckon if I buy another van I’d like to go a bit smaller and 2.0T or less.
In 2020 we sold our van and I had a COVID moment in 2021 and thought I’d trade in the PS and buy a new “flasher” car, however after looking at Audis, Mercs etc, I just couldn’t justify the $ for what you get and purchased a new Pajero Sport, (with a great trade in on the old one and it’ll tow the next van 😁).
Are you able to elaborate on why you wanted to go lighter on the van? What was your experience that made you feel that way? And what length van was it? Was the length an issue too?
@@darrendunn2938 @ 20’6” the van was a great size for living in and had all the comforts we wanted (en-suite, queen size bed, full size fridge), I considered going smaller in an effort to reduce weight, improve fuel economy and for possible improved manoeuvrability, however I researched a lot and couldn’t find a considerably smaller van with the amenities and at the weight I wanted, in the end as we wanted to retain the comforts the difference between a 20’6”, 19’ & 18’ weight and footprint wise really isn’t much, so we purchased a 19’6” dual axel which is pretty much the same weight, but slightly shorter than our last.
John, your comments on loading the van and tow vehicle are very welcome. The number of people who simply think they can tow a 3500kg van with 4x4 because the glossy tells them it can tow up to that rating is concerning. For the record (I do have an off-road "Shitoire") I have a 2018 Tojo Fortuner (2.7 tonne towing capacity) and have a Kedron 16' fully off-road van with an ATM of 2.7 tonne. I will never take it over about 2.4 tonne loaded up so that I keep the tow vehicle as the dominant weight for the combination. Once again - many thanks for the balanced discussion . See you at "the creek" some time, or onboard the MV COVID Princess.
Hi JC (one of my fav YTers), I have a Paj Sport 2022 loaded with accessories including myself adding up to 370kg payload. Also has a lift kit with airbags - really helps. Towing an Austrack 15ft tare weight 2.3 and payload 250 kg (includes only 50 kg water in the tanks). No problem towing at 90 to 100 km on flat or low / short rise hills. However on climbing the Main Range or Toowoomba ranges for example PS can start to over heat if you dont watch the revs. Solution to that is put the PS in 4wd high and leave it on automatic, keep the revs below where the temp gauge moves from halfway. The cost is the embarresment of chugging along at 30km per hour for a short period of time. Otherwise PS is a good choice. :(
I'd suggest ,add up the total cost of van extra fuel burn , caravan Park fees and wear n tear , insurance etc,,leave it in the bank,,spend the saving on hotels ,and buy a touring car
Not if you have an allergy to bedbug bites, aggressive cleaning chemicals and recycling air conditioners.
It’s unfortunate that caravan & car salesman don’t listen to your advice. You speak the words of advice, that I have around that Dingo Piss Ck fire on many occasions. Well done & keep up your entertaining if given smart advice. 🍻
I agree with most of your comments. I see the LDV electric ute has arrived! $92K 130 KW 1000KG towing capacity. Not for us dingo creek pissers!!!
One of the glaring weak-links (I'd call it a design flaw) in the Pajero Sport is fuel capacity. 68 litres just doesn't cut it in the genre. With 2 tonnes in tow, you'd be looking for fuel at around 300kms, which is problematic in accessing DPC. So, you either need to carry fuel cans or add a long range tank, which are both budgetary and GVM considerations.
Having a bigger fuel tank, provided as "default", would also add GVM.
(Approximately 1kg per litre of fuel).
Fuel cans are a fine option.
😂@@BatCaveOz Diesel weighs 850g per litre. A steel jerry can weighs over 4kg. Adding 4 jerry cans to a PS to be on capacity parity with a Prado adds about 85kg and consumes around 100 litres of cargo volume. In a Prado, it adds 68kgs and consumes no cargo volume. The OEM fuel volume is included in TARE mass, which means it's already accounted for (excluded) in load calculations for the Prado. That 85kg becomes part of the load in a PS, so that means less other stuff you can toss in. Then there are the factors of safety, inconvenience (handling the cans, standing in the heat / dust / rain to refuel), time, potential for contamination (rain / dust) etc. Carrying jerry cans might be fine for you, but there are much better alternatives.
Yep. 68L is a joke.
My nephew has a Pajero, we recently spent a week on Moreton Island. We drove all over the island, on the beach wet and dry, coffee rocky ground, really soft dry powdery boggy sand tracks. The Pajero handled them all without a hint of problems. We did pull out a couple of bogged utes with the dreaded snatch strap, none of them were Toyotas though haha. I'd recommend the Pajero as a long term prospect for sure. Very impressed.
I'm concerned about longevity.....how many km does it have please?
@@davidnobular9220 I just checked with him, he's up over 82,000km right now. Not had any issues yet.
@@woznme100 thanks for that.
Hey Bargie. I bought my Pajero Sport GLS in July 2021 and now travelled over 60k. I`m 68 and it`s a very capable 4x4 off road car, comfartable and extremely fuel efficiant. A small tank of 68lt and travel well over 700km not towing. I have great fun with some other like minded people, sand, mud and climbs without doing major challenges with ease. We did our homework and found that It`s cheaper to hire a caravan than spending $50-90k and find other expenses like, that you have rego, insurance, and possably a storage charge and to the maintenance outlays. I highly recommend the the Pajero Sport, value for money, reliability and matching spare alloy wheel as what on the car the car.
I was considering Pajero Sport before watching this and now convinced thanks to you. Thanks mate.. and yes noted your physics lecture and will be limiting towing to well below manufacturers limits!
Had my car and van weighed today. Car is a 22 Paj Sport. Caravan is a jayco 17ft pop top. ATM of van was 2230. Ball was 170 so I need to some weight around. Car and van had about 200kg each of payload remaining (family were in the car). No way known I’d tow much more as I already get pitching and rolling on winding roads and am looking at a suitable suspension upgrade to assist with the rear suspension sag. This is the only part of the set up where I’m not compliant. This is our second pajero sport and we find them a great car but keep your expectations in check when thinking of towing.
Dear Mr Cadogan
Can you give an update on what happened with Mr Imray's Mux statutory warranty claim concerning the fuel system. Mux is still vaguely on my list but the companies approach to respect for the law is something I would like to know more about.
Regards
Martin
Your reverse psychology worked. I liked this video. Mainly because I can't think of anything worse than being a caravaner.
It would suck.
Thanks for an informative video. You also have to take into considerstion the max axle loads as it is common that when you add the max towball weight onto your vehicle you have reached the axle load rating without any back seat passengers or gear in your boot. Steel bullbars are known to overload the front axle too! Only put on the minimum of accessories as you stated.
Regards Ian
John, Love your reports. "I suggest" has become part of my daily vernacular.
10:20 How can the vehicle be in 4x4 with the centre differential UNlocked? Do you mean constant AWD as opposed to being on-demand AWD?
Easy. The vehicle has a centre diff. It's engaged but unlocked. Do you need me to draw you a diagram?
@@AutoExpertJC yeah that would actually be good. No need to be a sarcastic prick about it.
Another great review, thanks John . However I really get tired of the Y62 patrol being overlooked as a reliable towing vehicle . It might be getting a bit outdated but it still works exceptionally well , and you save 30k plus , and you can actually buy one . Yes , it's petrol but contrary to some of the experts in this industry , present company excepted , it is better on fuel than a cruiser. 18.1l to100 km towing 2.5ton . And you can actually buy one . That's nice . Nissan has looked after any issues I have had and I haven't had to join any class actions to get anything done.
Regards Dave Roberts
apart from the repeatedly failing fan hub....Great for engine overheating, let alone the fan howl.
Lol and what do you think the Land cruiser does? The old one with a tune did about 11-12 km/100 while the new one stock does the same, loaded it does about 17L/100km while towing a 3-3.2 Tn trailer 👀 so how's the petrol better? The landcruiser has two tanks while the patrol doesn't 👀 😂 so don't use the landcruiser as a comparison the only advantage the patrol has is price
@@rossatkinson3160 haha, in my local language there's a proverb that says "a good thing will sell itself while a bad one will need alot of 'word-of-mouth' marketing" mans thought he had struck gold with the patrol 😂 gibberish, he thinks the LC is popular because people are fools, the LC is not perfect but it ticks alot of boxes especially in cost of maintenance and reliability. Hell, it's expensive because it's so popular not because of anything else.
@@mwat22 mate the test have shown there lighter on fuel in towing comparisons, the 5.6 ltr is bullet proof and in the middle east and US those engines are more popular than a diesel landcruiser v8 and desert and commercial work really bad conditions, they also were in nissan v8 super cars. It's just that Australians are diesel crazy so they won't consider anything else. You're analogy is basically saying Mac Donalds are good because there popular so if you could get a cheap er more tasty, less known KFC down road ,don't buy it because it's not as popular because people have never tried it
Pootrol. 🤮
Retired early myself and have been out there for ten years now. Just me and the dog as she got the house so I live in the Caravan so firstly I find that the insurance on anything "off road" is incredibly expensive. I personally do any off road stuff with a vehicle only and a tent and minimal "Stuff" but that is just me but you wont tow anything across the Simpson Desert for example. Next bit is that towing a caravan on bad roads and the like will usually cause them to leak water when it rains so I keep my caravan on the bitumen because yes I live in it and do not tow it back to suburbia every few weeks and park it somewhere and who knows where you will end up storing the thing until the next adventure if indeed there ever will be another adventure as statistically speaking about half of couples only ever do it once so there is that.
One piece of advice is that you don't need half the stuff that you think you will so pack lightly and yes i have seen them come into the caravan park and set up the outdoor setting and the Weber and the large freezer full of food and then go down town for a meal at the RSL.
Hey John, we have already purchased the top of the line Mitsubishi Ute 3 years ago. We have a light weight rack el cheapo Kings awning & recovery points & clamshell lid. All that said 150k later of happy motoring, we purchased a 14 foot Semi off road caravan. Van has a tare of 1683kg etc. Our main problem is we need promptly supplied parts to cover warranty problems, eg tail lights & storage locker surrounds to prevent further water inundation. So because of the warranty issues we’ve only been able to use it for a few months in the last 12 months. Still waiting for replacement tail light so we’re not easy prey for police revenue donations. So the lap has been delayed permanently until it’s fixed and effects of Wet season is fully over. Thank you Snowy River maybe you were right JC , 60k would buy lots of luxury accommodation. SO BUYER BEWARE.
The introduction in itself is absolutely masterful [although I think that word is now on the banned list]! Thank you for providing some levity in and amongst all this gloom John.
What can be a sad story... Retirement after 60 years of age big spend on the Super $100,000+ each on the van and vehicle then somewhere up in some large or small town in northern Australia dad has a health event usually to do with the ticker the big adventure turns sour and mum is sitting in a van park if she's lucky with what has become a huge millstone around her neck working out what to do next .This scenario is happening regularly and needs consideration when planning the big trek .
@Slavery is Freedom, War is Peace agreed
My mum did a lot of the driving after husband number 4 had a stroke. They still had many good years of caravanning before they had to call it a day. Agreed that the health check should probably be the first consideration but you are also assuming that the woman isn’t capable or keen to keep going. In my mum’s case, both were true.
With a little experience, it’s not hard to research a car and a caravan before purchasing and calculate the weights, including accessories.
The important thing to remember is all these weights are limits and you don’t have to get close to them. When calculating, allow at least a 10% buffer.
True off-road capable vans are out there. Compact Hybrids with ATMs around the 2t. Capable of doing the Vic High Country, Cape York, Teli track and others along with desert crossings.
One thing you forgot to mention is GCM & GVM, and legal towing mass if car is fully loaded to GVM.
The GCM of the Pajero Sport GLS is 5,565 kg, and with the GVM of 2,775 kg maxed out you can only tow 2,790 kg (Redbook data).
Although you are recommending to tow no more than 2,200 kg, unfortunately many people don't look at the numbers correctly and ignore GCM - they just see the GVM and what it can tow not realising that if you do tow what the manufacturer says it can, you cannot load your tow vehicle to its GVM.
Excellent content. I'm back in civilization now and have seen the length and breadth of possible off-road setups.
The short story is that everything is a compromise. No set up is perfect. You need to do what's right for you and your wants, needs and budget.
Haven't ever towed with my Pajero Sport but as a camping and off road vehicle I find it pretty good really.
Capable off road, cruises long distances very easily, 4wd system is very easy to use and works very well, Google maps through entertainment system is great and downloading the maps beforehand onto the phone means it will work even out of service areas area are a few things I like.
I don't hammer mine but it's done some stuff that has made me clench a bit at times and I will usually give up before it does.
I've even found some bits and pieces for camping so that storage etc is pretty good as well when organized.
Cheaper than most others in its class as well, at least when I bought mine.
It's been a good thing.
How do you find deploying and collapsing the third row seats?
I also have a Pajero Sport I have owned for nearly six years. I have done a lot of caravan towing in that time. Our van weighs about the same as the car. I am very happy with the Pajero Sport as a tow vehicle. We have now done over 110,000 km. The only issues we have had is a cracked exhaust manifold and leaking front shocks. The shocks I consider to be fair wear tear given how much towing we have done. The mechanic told me he has replaced a few Pajero Sport manifolds. He suspects they have a design flaw. The only things I don’t like about the car are the headlight performance and the fuel range when towing. I have fitted driving lights to address the headlight issue. I could fit a long range fuel tank, but I don’t think it’s worth the expense. I just take extra fuel in jerrycans. Would I buy another one? I won’t know until I have done about 190,000 km in my current vehicle. If it is reliable over the next 80,000 km, then I definitely would get a new Pajero Sport.
@@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars Mine is a base model 5 seater so I really have no idea tbh.
Things that others have said are issues about the vehicle really don't worry me as I'm usually the only one in the vehicle.
If it wasn't such a pia legally and I had somewhere to store it the backseat would be out of mine as well.
Sorry I can't be more helpful.
@@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars The seat belt buckles are a bit fiddly but otherwise it's fine once you've done it a few times. But intuitive it's not. Certainly not a deal breaker.
Hi John, there is an alternative which a few people I know have taken and that is a 4x4 truck, either Iveco or Isuzu. My son works at a dealership and says people are starting to buy rather than Landcruiser's.
Love the information as always John. If ever I need info on a subject I like to come to your channel. I'll watch, listen and chuckle then do more research based on what you've said. I often refer people to your channel as well. Always learning. Warm regards Gozzy!
There are actually trucks on Australian roads that are not diesel powered. There’s an “e-power” Mitsubishi canter getting around where I live. But that’s the only one out of thousands. And it does one specific run once per day.
I agree a 4x4 diesel wagon is a good towing vehicle it's doesn't matter what breed of 4x4 diesel wagon it is as long as it brakes good and the driver doesn't speed up on the over taking lanes
Great video, Don't hold it against me but I am a kiwi. Most people over here have no idea of there caravan weight and do they not want to know. The common tow truck is the Japanese 4x4 or the ford ranger. They put luggage bins on the caravan draw bar and load them up with more stuff. They have no idea of the tow ball downward weight. Unfortunately there will be a bad accident with a overweight caravan or motorhome and the police will start checking weights. I have a Iveco Van motorhome, it has a max weight of 3.8 Ton. Because it is over 3.5t it needs a COF which is a heavy truck 6 monthly inspection. When they test my brakes the machine also weights and shows my axle weights, so I know exactly what weight I am. I am over weight on my rear axle so I have to throw some stuff. At all Road worthy vehicle inspections the vehicle should be weighted, this would make things safer.
Always good to hear your opinion (Jc)
As a 2022 exceed owner and previous triton owner, the Ps is a vast improvement ,especially the 8sp box.
On the triton, the turbo lag is way more noticeable. With regard to using the PS to go to piss dingo ville-dont, forget the spare turbo intercooler hoses ( can't believe mitsi hasn't sorted this shiyt out yet??). Also for those who may consider a Roof top tent for their PS-the dynamic and static load limits are really designed for perhaps-----very very under nourished pigmeys.
Also- when servicing -watch out for those service departments that love to charge for those gold plated cabin filters ????? Peace ✌️
More and more people seem to be buying what some would call a Yank tank - huge, imported behemoths that take up 2-4 car spaces when you're parking the buggers - and using these to tow a van. Please JC, can you cast your learned eye over this group of vehicles without prejudice? Fuel economy, spare parts network, towing capacity... Thanks.
Just a thought John, maybe mention weight distribution in a trailer - not too much weight in the back - causes grief . Yaw welcome. Also, speaking of electric vehicles, a channel "Aging Wheels" did a very interesting explanation of charging the things today. Battery voltage, charge times, charge stations etc etc blah blah. Informative. Luv your work
Hello. Love ur blunt honesty.
I have been lookn @ the pajeros. With the 700kg payloads, is it not possible to increase it by installn aftermarket suspension? Or is this too $$expensive or just a gimmick.
Thanks, George sa.
I currently own a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and overall I agree with you, there genuinely is nothing better value for the money. Capable reliable comfortable. Having said that I am replacing mine with an Ineos Grenadier and yes it basically to see me into retirement. I know you won’t approve as it’s niche and unproven but the fundamentals are are very good. It’s something of a risk but one I’m willing to take.
Nice choice. I want a Grenadier, but the recent $14K price hike means I'll be waiting a little longer. It's been created with passion and backed by money, so I expect any teething issues to be sorted promptly.
@18.20 - Nice bit of Thin Blue Line gobbing off 😆
Hey John, l know it's a lot more expensive but what about an American ute such as a Ram or Silverado, not sure?
I come here for the no nonsense straightforward truth but stay for the sarcasm 👍 .
I hired a Pajero whilst my Hilux was in for crash repair. I learnt how hiring a vehicle can be a good way to see if that vehicle was worth buying. Answer was no. During the weeks I had it the quality of the interior and the dangerous lag when pulling onto a roundabout from the Turbo was a big issue. It was a brand new car but the stitching on the rear seats started to come undone in that short time. Other plastic items simply fell off.
Hi John, really enjoy the honest and straight forward review and updates. I have been towing big things for a number of years and totally agree with your views on weights and driver experience. Some feedback on your comments re LC300, which I ordered back in Feb 2022. Less about the vehicle but more about the service from Toyota, which is unsurprisingly ‘less than optimal’. Toyota’s website states the obvious, delays beyond our control etc etc and you should consult your dealer. Problem with that is the dealer treats its customers like mushrooms. A monthly update that says, no updates, no potential delivery date - you know the drill. I have been (for better or worse) a rusted on LC customer for longer than I remember but am now questioning my loyalty, something Toyota clearly dont give a shit about.
As one of the “living the dream” bogans Mr C so wonderfully describes, I’d like to say this is all fabulous advice. I suspect there are more overweight rig combinations out there than we care to imagine. One point I’d love to see clarified is whether rear suspension upgrades on vehicles like the Pajero allow for the capacity to load it beyond the manufacturer’s specifications and increase the overall GCM rating.
No
G'Day John, I tend to agree with most of your Cryptic Comments regarding the Pajero Sport. We have a 17Mod PS and it suits our needs to a T. You are Spot On with your recommendation for not towing anything heavier than 2.2t with a PS as IMO they would struggle towing anything heavier (as in the 2.5-2.7t range). They are after all only a 2.4lt pushing around 2.5t with all the usual bolt on accessories that us Strayan's like to fit to a 4WD. We do have an Aluminium Shitswaah (and yes it is an Off-Road Van) we tow, which is 1750kg fully loaded and to me that is ideal as the PS does tow it quite well. I looked at a number of other options before purchasing the PS and found it the best value for money with good off-road performance and reliability. By the Way, can you send me the Coordinates for Dingo Piss Creek as I am yet to find it on the Map. I did hear that it is within CooWee of "Out the back of BumF##k"...Keep the post coming. Alot of people Love to Hate You, but I guess they have no sense of humour and are as Boring as Bat Shit....LOL
MH17 didn't spear into the ocean John. The Russians (or proxies of) took it out over Ukraine with a missile from a Buk launcher. Other than that, agreement fully here with your towing recommendations. Luv your work. Keep it up.
Steve Lane Townsville...
I guess he meant MH370 :)
Towing in the high range 4WD with my Triton feels a lot better. Very slightly more fuel usage I've noticed, but worth the trade off
Hi John, you are such a funny bugger, i was thinking of buying a 4x4 but at my age 76 i probably wouldn't live to see it delivered . Six wives !!! what perserverance !!!
Just buy a 2011 Pajero Exceed, under $20,000 great fuel economy and tow up to 3 tons.
We Love you Long time John
Hi John, just came across your web site, love it and your humour. One question have any of the tools/ equipment you surround yourself with been used🙂
I liked this episode mate, thanks
Prado 180 litres of fuel capacity and no matter what you drive , you are not going anywhere without fuel, and I had a Pajero and it was very fussy on fuel, any contamination and it would stop on every corner on the way home and contamination is a big worry out back. The same with my sons Mits Magna , we would sell the fuel to his brother in law with a Hyundai used it no worries .
I don’t want to say it but the prado great choice is heavier so you can safely tow upto 2.5 tons the extra power is good compared to the Mitsubishi it’s also better off-road and being a Toyota it will go the distance but if price is the limiting factor the Mitsubishi Pajero sport is a good option.
Maybe the road to dingo piss creek should be upgraded to 2wd vehicles,save a lot of people a lot of money and maybe super chargers along the way for the muskrats
I’m in the process of researching my future accommodation options. And it seems that as we continue to see price increases across the board, living full time in a motorhome is looking more and more financially stable. I’m currently single. In the correct setup, I can choose to live remote, in a car park, even hooked up in a caravan park. And as for working, in these modern times of remote working options, it’s even more possible.
So depending on what this guy is wanting from retirement, a motorhome could be that different pov.
Well I spent a few months working from my caravan last year and it was way more expensive than living at home. You get bored of places pretty quick and fuel is expensive. Had a great time though. If you're trying to save money take up a new hobby like gardening, and wwoof your way around Australia instead, this will also be less boring if you're travelling by yourself.
@@FourLowAdventures I agree we’ll said.
@@FourLowAdventures "You get bored of places pretty quick..." sez you.
Some people, especially those for whom their brain cells and synapses still function in accordance with original design specifications, find it hard to understand why anyone would get bored anywhere.
I'm over 40 years into retirement and continue to be amazed that I ever found the time to undertake paid employment.
@@DrakeN-ow1im so you're saying if you leave your house, community and all of the familiar faces you know so that you can live by yourself in a caravan in some showgrounds in the middle of nowhere you won't get bored? You will end up mentally ill like the people that already do that. To enjoy it you have to go to nice places where there is tourism and these places are expensive even in a caravan or motor home that's already been paid for.
@@FourLowAdventures at this time, in my area, rents for a 2 bedroom unit start at $400 pw, add essentials; food & utilities, internet, phone and vehicle costs. That doesn’t leave a lot of play money.
In a motor home, you still have food and vehicle costs, but you no longer need rent or utilities. Yes costs for the vehicle are increased, however not to the extent that it becomes cheaper, at this time nor in the foreseeable future. For me…
The option or someone who already owns there home would be considerably different. And should consider their options relevant to their situation. As should anyone looking to make such a lifestyle change.
Living full time in a motorhome or van, is a very different mindset to that of living in a brick and mortar home.
Hi John, Usual quality of content, enjoyed listening to you and the way you explain things. Personally I am or at least used to be a camper trailer supporter, tow vehicle wasn't really an issue, enjoyed the living outside the box and not in it. Practical for what we wanted, if space was tight or a CP was overcrowded we could usually squeeze in somewhere. Good to go more or less anywhere, we had a couple of TVans and also a couple of Kimberly Kampers over the years, build quality has been good, found the Kimberly Kamper had a bit too much canvas, the TVan was my favorite however access to the sleeping area was always a bit of a challenge, the front always felt a bit claustrophobic. Keep em coming John.
Bought a 22 Toyota Fortuner for this task John. Extremely happy with my value for money choice 56 k with tow bar, snorkel and weather shields. Looking for something around 1800 to 2000 kg for accommodation to tow to Dingo Piss Creek.👌
Very happy with our 22 Fortuner as well. Great tourer
i almost purchased the pajero but got the mux instead and still today think i did not purchase it due too per presser due too i still think its the best buy but i would not stupe too the level of o you need a hilux or a prado too tow that lol it was bad enough spending half the amount on the 4x4 just too tow a over priced camper trailer too spend time with wife and kids but end of day would not change it for the world so far the 4x4 is the wifes daily driver and its done 18k and the trailer has done 10k of that and we love it i think you would not go wrong buying the mitsubishi triton or pajero and on the tow yes john is write stick too the 2 tonne towing you will enjoy the drive much more
Bloody hell, learn the difference between to and too, you make reading the text difficult.
Front axle limit on a Pajero Sport QE of 1260kg can also be problematic with a heavy bull bar as I'm finding out when I drive to the shops with the missus (#2). A bit of weight on the towbar might help there.
You probably need to pump up your tyres to at least 40psi cold which will improve steering feel and handling plus reduce tyre wear.
Another add for your owned brand. We went with a Rexton as our next 5 year towing escape platform. Try looking further than your own back yard mate.
We had narrowed our options to the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu Dmax. Without even giving a thought to a Mitsubishi or even knowing they made the Pajero Sport.
I hire new Toyota Landcruiser’s regularly for work in the outback and have done hundreds of thousands of kilometres in them on both off-road and on-road.
In my opinion the ride in the Pajero Sport blows those overpriced shit-boxes away and we feel so much safer driving this car with the ability to drive in 4X4 even on the road, especially when we are towing.
We have had the car for a while now and tested its ability for off-roading in Dingo Piss Creek, the towing ability with our 2200Kg camper, as well as lots of city driving.
We are blown away with the refinement of this car that has this much off-road ability.
The car has exceeded our expectations and we are so pleased we did not waist the extra thousands of dollars on those other brands.
Hi John, I bought 2 Olights; Bloody Fantastic! I also now Recommend Olight. Malcolm, Nth Queensland, Australia. (I have the "hunting kit", telescope on top, torch underneath, "Bloody Oath"
Hi Johnny I took your advice 18 months ago and ordered a Pajero sports GLS 4x4. I’ve had the car 13 months and nothing but issues. Rear door won’t operate at times. Sensors going off for no reason slamming on the breaks not good with a car on your ass. Back to Mitsubishi next week for the 3rd time. My first Mitsubishi and last. Back to Isuzu.
My EDC does not need a battery. My finger has the proximity sensor.
If you really must get that extra large bull bar on the front of the vehicle, you might be able to offset front axle weight by requesting Belle de Jour (#x) to recline suggestively in the backseat.
Sorry smartass dude but this was a really good video. I agree with everything you said and it is good to hear real common sense advice re towing in Australia and the proper place for evs. I also recommended the P Sport to my daughter and husband for the exact reasons you stated. Sorry but you did well.
I am 63 and retired for some years and have a "real" 4wd and off road van and it has been where most don't take a van and I do have a winch because I travel solo there is a good chance I will need it when out at Shits Creek with no "normal" person within cooee. :)
Why not a small 4×4 truck. You could even eliminate the van and have the accommodation on the tray area of the truck?
Do the folks with the flashing lights on top ever check any of these rigs? Some of the ones I see coming through our small town have to be overweight, especially with the tinny on the roof and the outboard strapped to the caravan. Back seat full of gear and massive toolboxes on the drawbar.
Sometimes roadside but not often enough. After a serious accident, yes.
I have seen stories where the Police will sit at a popular spot and pull over rigs and weigh them.
Seems to happen more lately from what I've seen.
Lots of people didn't go any further once weighed in the story I saw.
Interesting insurance issues as well if something goes wrong and you're overweight.
I'm not a big fan of government red tape or layers of bureaucracy getting to involved in our lives, but I would absolutely support the introduction of some sort of towing licence or at least towing accreditation that needs to be obtained by anyone towing a caravan ( or braked trailer over 750kg). There is a growing ticking time bomb of major road accidents out there on our roads waiting to happen that grows each day as each and every caravan leaves the dealership.
thankfully in the UK, nowhere is further than a tank of gas away... and, when you get there, theres either a 4 star hotel, air BNB... or even a stop n screw for 35 quid a nite... sadly, cheaper options are available... I'm 66 this year, my days of student surfing and dossing in my Land Rover 2a are, like hair (a receeding memory...) But, you got a mention off Shaun Wale and Graham Cahill on 4WD 247... might be worth mentioning they do a brutal UTE roadtest every year... and, if nothing else, it's entertaining. Very much like yourself...
If capital cost (and fuel cost) isn't an issue, an Iveco Daily 4X4 would be a better option. More than enough towing capacity to tow a decent caravan, and plenty of both the GVM and GCM left over to carry the kitchen sink... errr... I mean the lady wife's handbag. 😉
The Iveco daily 4x4 isn't the most reliable vehicle. The GCM is good with them however when derated to 4.5t GVM for a car licence the payload is only 1.5t. A 70 series Landcruiser ute for comparison has a 1.3t payload at max GVM so there isn't that much difference. Both are rated to tow 3.5t at max GVM and not exceed GCM. The real advantage of light trucks like Iveco, Fuso, Hino and Isuzu can only be realised if you are prepared to get a light truck licence and drive them using their 5.5-7.5t GVM rating. With 2.5t-4.5t payload nothing needs to be left behind.
The thing that I thought the Iveco had over something like a 70-series was that the tare mass would be higher, making the 1:1 mass rule more likely to work for larger trailers, but having just gone looking for tare mass info for the Daily 4x4, I've found that there's a lot less difference than I thought there was. Certainly, the Iveco with a tray will weigh 300-400kg more than a 79-series dual cab with a tray, but that's quite a bit less than I thought it would be.
I see your point about the car licence, and some people probably wouldn't see the point in getting a light rigid licence, but it isn't hard to get, and it does open up the options for considerably higher carrying capacity. My licence is for heavy rigid, and there's no way that my wife would drive a truck, so getting the higher capacity version would be a no-brainer for me, but not everyone would agree.
lol to add to the other comment I get the mussos as they are cheap and work... then you can beat the shyt out of it and not worry about resale. in the end its the same depreciation and you actually had fun and not coddling resale.
Excellent video. It really brings home that towing vans (or shitwaas) is a science. I have said for years, going by what I have seen on the road, is that there probably should be a license requirement for towing vans/trailers/shitwaas over xxx kgs. Say anything over 1500 kgs would be a good starting point. It is amazing how many people do not understand what they are towing in relation to the capability of the vehicle. PS as a Triton owner myself, can't go wrong with a Mits. For their price you get good bang for buck and are reliable, proven workhorses. Pajero Sport will be a good option for this bloke.
I fully agree that towing anything larger than a garden trailer should require training, testing and licencing.
as owner of an "transparent portable shit-wa" the best part about taking a dump is leaving the door open to enjoy the scenery while laying that cable
Could you do a video on the American trucks we see on the road? The F150, 250 Ram, Silverado, etc.
Would love to see your take on these rigs, pros and cons, towing.
If the ACT Govt ever succeeds in forcing me to get an electric vehicle, I'll be getting a sticker for it that reads "My other car is a Dodge RAM"
@@davidnobular9220 If only the people united and said No. We make our choices, not you.
or stopped pushing something that ran cobalt mined via child slavery/slavery from o/seas or lithium that miners have a low lifespan in various countries as they virtue signal battery everything.
Can't believe people don't push back. Not even for the gas stove etc rubbish agenda. Baaaaaaa.
@@shutthegate8232 Part of the reason they don't is because a lot of them are very on board with this. The way I see it, if we get rid of the very thing that made our current civilisation (ie oil etc) then we will regress big time. Maybe even back to the Stone Age...
I have said this in the past, but I work with otherwise perfectly logical technical people who honestly believe that we will be fine if we turn off gas and coal power gen tomorrow.
It's a scary world out there.....
Hey John, just a thought.
Does any manufacturer produce a hybrid diesel?
Just as a thought looking towards the future.
Would it be a good or bad idea? Could it even be produced?
I look forward to your thoughts.
Regards
DP
John your Intro to this video had me almost (but not quite) "going poopy in my trousers" (excuse the use of the phrase however I do on (regular) occasions take special note of a great (& IMO not recognised sufficiently) and forthright "Sage" & he uses that phrase, so it MUST be permitted).
The phrase that had me laughing out loud was that of the "Safety wearing thongs" which for your edification (undoubtedly you don't require), is precisely what myself and my travelling "pal" called the endless use of the ubiquitous "flip flops" (aka thongs) as safety footwear on EVERY building site by everyone involved in Vietnam (a place I am extremely familiar and fond of).
I could imagine someone, anyone turning up on any building site in dear old Straylya wearing the thongs as safety footwear, there would be conniptions.
Thanks for the output of your Vids and thanks for being humorous and serious as the same time, a gen X,Y,Z couldn't manage it, EVER.
LD
Hi, Have ISUZU changed the spec on their 2022 MU-X ? My 2018 has 2H , 4H and 4L which locks centre and rear diffs...
Thanks
Brad
MU-X does not have a centre diff. When in 4H or 4L it's a 50/50 torque split front / rear. 4WD should not be engaged on high traction surfaces ie bitumen. Otherwise damage can occur to the transmission some times called transmission wind up.
g'day john love your videos.
what's your recommended brand for a large size van for work.
TIA
So what vehicle should I be looking at if the hybrid caravan has a gtm of 2800kg? Mits ps or triton look like they’re out. Gonna have to wait for stock with everything else
Am thinking the same thing
Great video as always John.. I am very curious how you have your mitre saw hung on the wall in the background *desire to know more intensifies* ;-)
I'm looking at getting a Musso. I'm not after hard core 4 x 4, not towing a caravan. Just something to take me on my grand fishing tour from Eyre Peninsula to s.w. Oz. and access to remote beaches.
Good choice,I am waiting to get my Rexton.
Nice JC, try and tell that to my wife who just knows that her horse friends already tow 3+ ton with a D-Max and they say it is fine. So now she wants a 3 and 1/2 ton towing capacity vehicle to tow the PAL factory candidates around with. She won’t listen to me or yourself as her friends know better.
2.2 ton still a huge mass to tow with an SUV I reckon , better off with a light truck , just my opinion , great video as usual , cheers
Not all want to go to DPC personally it doesn't interest me I'm much happier to travel on bitumen with a small van and visit the smaller parks on the coast. MH 17 comment was a bit much at least get the event correct.
Retired and enjoying my Fortuner. No porta potty though, that money is better spent in hotel rooms. Love your videos, thank you! Regards from Chile
Richard Greene!!! He was Robin Hood in the old 60's television classic! Onya Richard.
Buy a Ssangyong Rexton. Excellent value for money and built like a tank, 7 year warranty. Plenty of torque where you need it. Not sure why you would go for a Pajero. They are outdated now and are under powered for towing. Drive both and you will see what I mean.
A 7 year warranty? Have they even been selling cars there for that long?
@@BoleDaPole Under which particular rock have you been living until now?
@@BoleDaPoleat least 20 years bud.
Advantage Pajero is dealership support in remote regions also if you need a spare its likely to be in state. In case of landcruisers and hiluxes most remote garages are experts on them and carry common spares..
@@margaretbutler4545 yes, that is sort of true. Except as I recently experienced while in Canberra, my turbo down pipe needed replacing. Mitsubishi told me it would be six months till parts would be Available. When I returned home to the local dealership in NSW they told me the same thing. Times have changed and dealers don’t stock parts unless they are common things for servicing. If I was driving remote, I would carry them with me anyway. Just checked and Mitsubishi has 1 dealership in the Northern Territory and Ssangyong has 2. Like I said, times have changed.
Hi John, in countries that have a decent recharging network like there in SheepShaggerStan, an EV can be contemplated as a tow vehicle for a caravan. Currently (sic) there are several Hyundai/Kia EV models capable of hauling 1500kg, which is right on the money for a mid-size single-axle caravan. The big plus is that you can stop anywhere and use the EV to power up the caravan for a minimal loss of range. A smaller plus is all that access to instant torque. An EV initially shifts a caravan much easier than any diesel. Owners of EV-towed caravans report a 20 per cent loss of range when hooked up and driving down the highway. That's hardly the 'falling off a cliff' you mention.
Nonsense. Several TH-cam channels have tested EVs for towing and range is always half or less