You mentioned the change of actual speed vs of the speedometer with the bigger wheels. My '99 2.7l automatic 4x4 has stock tire size and the spedometer shows 2-3mph faster than Google maps GPS speed. In order to show 65mph on my phone my speedometer will be at 67+. Did you compare your speedometer to GPS before you switched the wheels?
Thanks for an alternative perspective to the traditional platform build. Definitely nice to have sitting-up headroom. Based on another video I’m trying to figure out how to incorporate a hinged section of the rear deck that can be raised as a backrest. Happy trails!
That is what we would like to do as well - we saw that sort of a thing with good hardware in this video: th-cam.com/video/0zA76yDXBUo/w-d-xo.html&feature=share
This is exactly what I was looking for! I kept having the same thoughts when seeing the other typical platform builds like, "but what if I need something that's stored underneath my bed, while I'm already on it for the night?" and agreed on wanting to not only lay down but to sit, and don't want to feel like I'm in a coffin. THANK YOU! 😩 Subscribed. ✅
"5 speed which means you have to shift for you kids" Love it! I was taught on manual transmission and so were my kids . Just in case of emergency they knew how to drive. 4Runner looks great! Love the upgrades!
I am in the process of building out my SUV into a camper to live in full-time. I couldn't agree more about not going the platform route. If it is rainy or cold out, and you want to just relax in the vehicle, being able to sit upright is essential. Unless you want to just spend your time in the driver seat or laying down. I used your build more than any other as inspiration for my own.
thanks steve. probably the third time I’m watching this video. I’m a recently retired law enforcement officer with mobility issues. so urban landing is more my speed. I just can’t do hills or sand anymore. except for you, there is really not much out there on urban landing. currently building out my 2011 tahoe and stealing most of your ideas for my build. hope you don’t mind. best wishes.
So glad I saw your video. This build makes better sense. Its always good to view various builds. I would love to be able to sit up, move about, remove and change clothes, eat and cook inside, etc. Great build. Enjoyed your video. Safe travels. Namaste.
Too funny~ I have the same truck, and doing the same build. Oversize tires didnt dial in my speedo~ it still reads about 5% fast. 328k on the clock~ but what's *REALLY* sweet about this base model is I get nearly 29 mpg!
I just found this channel. You have a stunning 4runner. I have a 99 I am in the process of building out. I did that platform. You are right. That's a terrible idea. I am now taking all that wood from that and building the side shelves. Thanks for the great video.
I did a similar build in a 98 Mazda MPV All Sport. Having the headroom is priceless imo. Additionally, vehicle choice is paramount for stealth camping. Vehicles like 4Runners don't look out of place in pretty much any neighborhood in the US. Btw, Overland Bound defines Overlanding as vehicle dependent (extended) travel (driving out to a local park for the night isn't overlanding). It's more WHAT you do vs vehicle and/or route. I think you qualify.
I'm glad that I found your channel .I plan to buy a cargo van to convert to camper but it is too expensive for me to finish the project then I realize that my Ford explorer can do that too.Thanks for all inspiration .
I know "practical" is a matter of opinion, but this build lines up EXACTLY with what I've had in mind for building out my Suburban! This is by far the most practical build I've seen for my purposes. Especially with the head space, claustrophobia always looked like a problem in other builds. Great video, even better build!
This is a great set up I was always wondering why people did the platform style setups and disregarded the capabilities of the roof rack. Keep it up 🤙🤙
Recently started watching your videos. I live in my 97 Honda passport. I didn't build a raised bed platform for my bed either. I'm perfectly comfy that way.just my cooler and a small storage bin in my passenger seat. OH And my 94lb pit bull SKYLOR. she my security. Love your videos. Stay safe out there bud.
Yeah but...it’s 2wd which definitely won’t work in Idaho or anywhere else I want to camp out west. I use low range year round including last week which was mid September
@@skylertaylor1154 Have 2 3rd gen 4Runners neither is a Mall crawling pavement princess lol . Besides 4Runners need 4wd how else those jeeps getting pulled out ? Lol
Ive been doing this for 3 months in my ford falcon wagon, put the bed in middle and everything on the sides I can get anything whenever. This in my opinion is a better way, never followed the crowd.
steve, I never once saw a video using this bed set up in all my research. I saw countless videos of platform builds and thats what I went with for my 2017 subaru outback. Let me tell you, i felt so claustrophobic. I think I will use this idea and build a new set up for my next trip. Thanks for the idea@
Hahahaha , “dreams of being buried alive” you said a mouthful there! That’s the message, plain and simple. Think about the end result. I also decided to avoid the “platform bed, with storage underneath” concept for my situation. Clearly the platform bed works great for some builds (with enough headroom), but for many the lack of headroom is claustrophobic for sleeping. Thanks for this video. Good ideas and well illustrated. For me personally, I still sleep in the front “captain’s chair”. Still more comfortable than any bed I have attempted to devise in the back. But that’s just me. Will watch more of your video. Thanks!!
I'm researching for my first overland vehicle. I had already decided that a sleeping/storage setup just like yours is what I would go with in an SUV. I'm in the same age group as you- wisdom. I'm also considering an extended cab pickup with at least a 6 1/2 ft bed. I'm also considering an Astro van. What I'm finding with the Astro vans though, is that it takes a lot of work for minimal results regarding suspension/drivetrain modifications. Thanks for the video.
Saved me a lot of time, would’ve hated not having much head room honestly way more efficient the way you’re doin it. Might make it lift just a little to slide small stuff underneath
Perfect! I fully agree! Platforms take up too much space and look claustrophobic. Thanks for the alternative idea. I’m following your plan for my 4Runner!
I would need mine to accommodate a couple, but feel instant claustrophobia panic just looking at the platform versions! 😱 Not sure what the solution might be . . . 🤔
LOOL devils butt crack, you're hilarious! Love the build man it's so practical and it inspires me. Some people can't fathom that 4x4 is not needed for light camping and city exploration
Glad you like your design. But to your readers, don't count out the platform approach. As a disclaimer, I didn't outfit an SUV. Both of mine were pickup trucks with cab level caps. Spent tons of nights in my trucks. Probably equally split between primitive camp grounds and steal camping. Most weekends April through October, and many week long trips over 13 years. Heavy use. Very comfortable. Easily sleep 2 people. Tons of gear underneath. Importantly, water runs down hill. Much of my travel was for water sports. Wet stuff on the bottom, dry stuff, including me, on top. Set up my deck in segments. Highly configurable. All segments were liftalbe to access gear underneath. If it was just me, I used an "L" shaped deck. Biggest problem was cold. Wired up a second battery. Charged the second battery off the alternator while running but separate from the truck's electrical system when parked so that my camping use didn't threaten the starter battery. 12V heated mattress pad was very toasty. (If you go that direction, might want a professional to wire in the second battery.)
In addition to my van I also have a 2000 3rd gen 4Runner (5-speed manual also) that I've owned for 16 years now. I've bought and sold five other vehicles during that time and the 4Runner is the only one I have never considered selling. These are pretty well known to be one of the best vehicles ever made. Nice job on the micro camper conversion.
Wow, Toyota has been making the 2.7 for a long time. I was surprised that the modern wheels/tires fit on your vintage 4Runner. Anyway, nice 4Runner. Oh, Steve, do you watch Wonderhussy by chance? She is Vegas based too and explores abandoned cabins out in the desert. She camps in her 4Runner as well
I was beginning to think I was the only person who didn't want to sleep on a platform! I'm 6'3" tall, and even without a platform, I have a hard time sitting up in the back of my 2004.
@@XplorerSteveDIY Possibly. I camp in mine, much the same way you do. I have a 4" folding foam mattress that I stretch out after moving the front seats fully forward. I generally sleep just fine in it, but I do need to build out that storage space to stay better organized.
This is a better idea that I had not seen before. Bravo! 👏🏼 My one question is regarding what you did with your back seats. I’m going to take the head rests off and lay the back seats down. However, the back seats still do not lay flat. Did you have that problem? And if so, how did you deal with that problem? Thanks for your post. Very informative! 😊
I love this little build. Everything about it makes so much sense. Good mileage, a fair amount of space to call home & very discrete. BTW "new" starters are never new, they're almost always remanufactured so it's not much different from the rebuild you do your self. Shocks are great, much cheaper than McPherson style struts and 2.7 liter is actually huge for a 4 banger. We had a FWD station wagon that was something like 1.4l and it got fantastic gas mileage for what it was. Plus you don't need 4 wheel drive as long as you keep the momentum up when the road has no traction left. I just realized you never covered what you use the above vehicle pod for.
Larger tires change your mph by a ratio (10%, 12% etc), so do a tire conversion comparison and figure out how much faster you drive at EACH level of speed.
Laying out a similar bed/storage space as this in my Nissan X-Trail... 👍🏼🇦🇺 ... I’d be interested on that curtain rail/track you have fitted to the curve of the roof behind front seating.
I just discovered your channel and the content is great. Thank you! I tried an elevated system in my “urban lander”...aka a Chevy Tahoe. I came to the same conclusion you did. Don’t build up.
I am SO glad i found this video! I have the same issue with car camping, im planning my build and want to do it your way but everyone seems to do the platform way. I love the way you've done it, super inspiration :)
I love your build, I did go with a platform as I travel with my girlfriend. Our platform is 5" tall and fits underbed storage containers, we use a 3" memory foam mattress so we lose 8" of headroom. Not a total loss as we are both under average height Anywyas, love the build! For sure it's the best way for a single person to travel!
If you're doing a lot of sleeping, without a doubt this is the better method. Lot of people build one of these and never use it. In that particular case, the draw system is better because no one wants to climb in and out to get gear. But clearly if you're already in there, cause you're sleeping in it, then this is totally the right move. There's also another interesting reason to do this method, and I'm now considering it. I have dog boxes that need to go on top. If they're on a draw system, the back window will be blocked. Something to think about. Thanks
Thank you for sharing this. When I first considered car camping, I thought of using my Prius due to mileage and, being able to run it for warmth or cooling. We had rain during a tournament and I thought I’d take a nap in it. It was hell. Kudos to anyone who can and is doing it. So, currently my Toy Rav4 is my go-to and no bed build-out. Like you, I need head-room. I like your side storage. Something I need to explore. Thank you for sharing your adventures.
yeah, this is the way you can tell if people REALLY camp in these things or not. Real campers have some screen arrangements and spend most of their time talking about their attempts to ventilate better. Clownshow #vanlife people spend their time talking about solar panels and lithium batteries (and trying to sell you some).
First time seeing your content and that’s because I recently got and used older explorer just because it was in the family and I got a great deal didn’t need it but I could and I am a hunter and outdoors guy and enjoy doing things alone nowadays. Im 42 years old and I agree with everything you said and your thought process before doing things even about selling the two wheel drive and buy a four wheel drive instead of taking in a bigger project like that especially if your not really into mechanic stuff. I do think if I was younger I wouldn’t think it over and would have dove right into a taller platform. Thanks for the idea that’s the part I am not to good at the ideas. If I see it I can run with it and maybe set it up for my needs and wants. Awesome job and thanks again for your time and efforts it takes and then to share.
In case Steve is busy, I find this to work; Out west it is so dry condensation hasn't been a problem like back east, and less bugs. For bugs keep the lights off inside at night (even in mosquito capital, MI). Hot and raining though, a t-shirt closed in the door and draped over outter door frame and open window allows air and keeps rain out.
I do crack the windows and got the rain guards for that purpose. I use sun shade screens that have those little suction cups to attach them to the window. Mine fit the window and i just slide them up into the window seal. Instant bug screen. Air still gets in and out.
Your Dad must be happy that you reconditioned and are able to continue to use his former SUV. You've done a really good job and it looks like new. I regret giving up on my 2002 4Runner at 100k miles, Probably could have gotten another 100-200k at least.
Great video thank you. ..just while you drive before a stop do never disengage the gear to neutral you must reduce gear until second but always using the engine to break the vehicle until full stop. The way you do it the car is completely loose out of control in case of emergency stop and a lot of pressure on the breaks.
as an aspiring overlander with a 4L jeep cherokee, I almost never actually have to use 4 wheel drive, much less 4 wheel low, basically all it does is add weight and decrease gas mileage.
I work a way from home and can spend the money on a motel I slept in a 01 Chevy Tahoe for 45 days it was cold I stayed at a TA i spent some money on showers and food I worked 7/12 it's was not bad
Here is a correction The tires and wheels are 265/70R16. 16" wheels.
You mentioned the change of actual speed vs of the speedometer with the bigger wheels. My '99 2.7l automatic 4x4 has stock tire size and the spedometer shows 2-3mph faster than Google maps GPS speed. In order to show 65mph on my phone my speedometer will be at 67+. Did you compare your speedometer to GPS before you switched the wheels?
great video, does the new wheels need any left for it to fit?
Extremely genuine and practical. So refreshing after seeing nothing but $100,000 van builds by Instagram influencers.
Loving your “this is my way” and not following the crowd approach. You talk a lot of sense Great set up
It's on the internet, so it must work.
This is the way
This man was throwing shade at absolutely everybody at some point in this video 😂
The best part lol
Your Toyota fills your niche quite nicely. You don’t need a diff lock or 4wd. Life is too short. Enjoy - you have a good thing going.
Thanks for an alternative perspective to the traditional platform build. Definitely nice to have sitting-up headroom. Based on another video I’m trying to figure out how to incorporate a hinged section of the rear deck that can be raised as a backrest. Happy trails!
That is what we would like to do as well - we saw that sort of a thing with good hardware in this video: th-cam.com/video/0zA76yDXBUo/w-d-xo.html&feature=share
This is exactly what I was looking for!
I kept having the same thoughts when seeing the other typical platform builds like, "but what if I need something that's stored underneath my bed, while I'm already on it for the night?" and agreed on wanting to not only lay down but to sit, and don't want to feel like I'm in a coffin.
THANK YOU! 😩
Subscribed. ✅
50k Miles, not even broken in yet!
my mouth dropped open when he said that.
I like this build. I’m doing mine the same way except diagonally for extra foot room.
"5 speed which means you have to shift for you kids" Love it! I was taught on manual transmission and so were my kids . Just in case of emergency they knew how to drive. 4Runner looks great! Love the upgrades!
I am in the process of building out my SUV into a camper to live in full-time. I couldn't agree more about not going the platform route. If it is rainy or cold out, and you want to just relax in the vehicle, being able to sit upright is essential. Unless you want to just spend your time in the driver seat or laying down. I used your build more than any other as inspiration for my own.
I love this set-up, As a 68 year old woman, I could use this happily. Thank you!
thanks steve. probably the third time I’m watching this video. I’m a recently retired law enforcement officer with mobility issues. so urban landing is more my speed. I just can’t do hills or sand anymore. except for you, there is really not much out there on urban landing. currently building out my 2011 tahoe and stealing most of your ideas for my build. hope you don’t mind. best wishes.
So glad I saw your video. This build makes better sense. Its always good to view various builds. I would love to be able to sit up, move about, remove and change clothes, eat and cook inside, etc. Great build. Enjoyed your video. Safe travels. Namaste.
Too funny~ I have the same truck, and doing the same build. Oversize tires didnt dial in my speedo~ it still reads about 5% fast.
328k on the clock~ but what's *REALLY* sweet about this base model is I get nearly 29 mpg!
Great to hear how it has worked out for you. I'm in a SUV and it's so easy to stealth camp anywhere. Those wheels were a good find.
I just found this channel. You have a stunning 4runner. I have a 99 I am in the process of building out. I did that platform. You are right. That's a terrible idea. I am now taking all that wood from that and building the side shelves. Thanks for the great video.
This really saved me from making the platform decision, very thoughtful!
That is one of the better builds I have ever saw.
Thanks for the share.
Just bought a new 2024 TRD Offroad Premium and want to do a build.
Nicely done. Appropriate tech is better than high tech. Yours fits you perfectly. AND you are out there enjoying it!
I really like how you think: genuine and original. Your design is the best I've seen on Ytube so far! Way to go, bro.
Salaam to you and to all.
Geolander, the travelling overland with camping and vehicle equipment to geographical places of interest, 👍
I did a similar build in a 98 Mazda MPV All Sport. Having the headroom is priceless imo. Additionally, vehicle choice is paramount for stealth camping. Vehicles like 4Runners don't look out of place in pretty much any neighborhood in the US.
Btw, Overland Bound defines Overlanding as vehicle dependent (extended) travel (driving out to a local park for the night isn't overlanding). It's more WHAT you do vs vehicle and/or route. I think you qualify.
I'm glad that I found your channel .I plan to buy a cargo van to convert to camper but it is too expensive for me to finish the project then I realize that my Ford explorer can do that too.Thanks for all inspiration .
I was laughing too hard at the "DevilsButt Crack" because I have a friend that just came back talking about how he did Devil's Staircase
Me too! Glad you have confirmed, Steve, that you are not one of *those guys.
I really like your set up. I need to watch your build video.
I know "practical" is a matter of opinion, but this build lines up EXACTLY with what I've had in mind for building out my Suburban! This is by far the most practical build I've seen for my purposes. Especially with the head space, claustrophobia always looked like a problem in other builds. Great video, even better build!
This is a great set up I was always wondering why people did the platform style setups and disregarded the capabilities of the roof rack. Keep it up 🤙🤙
"devil's butt crack" hahahaa..that's a great build.
You’ve got ALOT of life left in your runner. I’ve got a 99 with 378k miles on it and it’s still my daily driver. I love these vehicles
Camping for a few days and walk to the beach. That sounds like a dream.
Thanks for the update. You did a great job on the conversion. I’ve never heard the term Urban Lander, so you may have designed a new vehicle class.
This is great! Thanks for the inspiration. Looking to do something like this for my Landcruiser.
Recently started watching your videos.
I live in my 97 Honda passport. I didn't build a raised bed platform for my bed either. I'm perfectly comfy that way.just my cooler and a small storage bin in my passenger seat. OH And my 94lb pit bull SKYLOR. she my security. Love your videos. Stay safe out there bud.
That is awesome!
Best design I’ve seen so far.
I had a 2wd 4runner, sold it bought a 4wd and never used 4wd. 2wd has better gas mileage and more reliable
Yeah but...it’s 2wd which definitely won’t work in Idaho or anywhere else I want to camp out west. I use low range year round including last week which was mid September
If you have a 4Runner and never need 4wd.. you ain’t livin right
@@skylertaylor1154 heh, Nah I see it as a tool not a toy, but you do you.
I use my 4x4 fairly often, because I camp 4 seasons and explore a bit. Nothing crazy, but 4x4 has saved me more than once.
@@skylertaylor1154 Have 2 3rd gen 4Runners neither is a Mall crawling pavement princess lol . Besides 4Runners need 4wd how else those jeeps getting pulled out ? Lol
Excellent.
Smart.
Neat.
The mattress moves easily for other uses.
Great attitude.
Great attitude.
Wow such a good setup. Always thought those tall platforms were a bad idea
Ive been doing this for 3 months in my ford falcon wagon, put the bed in middle and everything on the sides I can get anything whenever. This in my opinion is a better way, never followed the crowd.
Nice! I fell into the trap of thinking there’s only one way to build a sleeper set-up. Thanks for the save! Nice design.
steve, I never once saw a video using this bed set up in all my research. I saw countless videos of platform builds and thats what I went with for my 2017 subaru outback. Let me tell you, i felt so claustrophobic. I think I will use this idea and build a new set up for my next trip. Thanks for the idea@
Hahahaha , “dreams of being buried alive” you said a mouthful there! That’s the message, plain and simple. Think about the end result. I also decided to avoid the “platform bed, with storage underneath” concept for my situation. Clearly the platform bed works great for some builds (with enough headroom), but for many the lack of headroom is claustrophobic for sleeping. Thanks for this video. Good ideas and well illustrated. For me personally, I still sleep in the front “captain’s chair”. Still more comfortable than any bed I have attempted to devise in the back. But that’s just me. Will watch more of your video. Thanks!!
Haha Steve! I love all of your videos and your subtle humor!💯👍
Glad to see someone promoting head room haha
I'm researching for my first overland vehicle. I had already decided that a sleeping/storage setup just like yours is what I would go with in an SUV. I'm in the same age group as you- wisdom. I'm also considering an extended cab pickup with at least a 6 1/2 ft bed. I'm also considering an Astro van. What I'm finding with the Astro vans though, is that it takes a lot of work for minimal results regarding suspension/drivetrain modifications. Thanks for the video.
Saved me a lot of time, would’ve hated not having much head room honestly way more efficient the way you’re doin it. Might make it lift just a little to slide small stuff underneath
Perfect! I fully agree! Platforms take up too much space and look claustrophobic. Thanks for the alternative idea. I’m following your plan for my 4Runner!
agree with your thinking on platforms/storage
I would need mine to accommodate a couple, but feel instant claustrophobia panic just looking at the platform versions! 😱 Not sure what the solution might be . . . 🤔
This guy know how to make videos!
I really like your design, well thought out for your needs. Always under radar and very stealth....nice beach trip story.
Okay brutha.... The moment you said you don't want to be that guy who made it out of Devil's Butt Crack I had to subscribe.
Love your set up.
LOOL devils butt crack, you're hilarious! Love the build man it's so practical and it inspires me. Some people can't fathom that 4x4 is not needed for light camping and city exploration
Great video + fantastic build. Where did you get the magnetic curtains from?
Thanks for the update! As always, your thoughts very detailed.
Glad you like your design. But to your readers, don't count out the platform approach. As a disclaimer, I didn't outfit an SUV. Both of mine were pickup trucks with cab level caps. Spent tons of nights in my trucks. Probably equally split between primitive camp grounds and steal camping. Most weekends April through October, and many week long trips over 13 years. Heavy use. Very comfortable. Easily sleep 2 people. Tons of gear underneath. Importantly, water runs down hill. Much of my travel was for water sports. Wet stuff on the bottom, dry stuff, including me, on top. Set up my deck in segments. Highly configurable. All segments were liftalbe to access gear underneath. If it was just me, I used an "L" shaped deck. Biggest problem was cold. Wired up a second battery. Charged the second battery off the alternator while running but separate from the truck's electrical system when parked so that my camping use didn't threaten the starter battery. 12V heated mattress pad was very toasty. (If you go that direction, might want a professional to wire in the second battery.)
This is by far the setup that resonates with me most.
In addition to my van I also have a 2000 3rd gen 4Runner (5-speed manual also) that I've owned for 16 years now. I've bought and sold five other vehicles during that time and the 4Runner is the only one I have never considered selling. These are pretty well known to be one of the best vehicles ever made. Nice job on the micro camper conversion.
Yes! This is exactly what I want to do. It always surprises me how many law’s California has. 🤷🏻♂️ Anyway, great build!
Wow, Toyota has been making the 2.7 for a long time. I was surprised that the modern wheels/tires fit on your vintage 4Runner. Anyway, nice 4Runner. Oh, Steve, do you watch Wonderhussy by chance? She is Vegas based too and explores abandoned cabins out in the desert. She camps in her 4Runner as well
I watch Sarah from time to time.
50,000 miles! that runner is basically brand new. great build for your lifestyle, nothing you dont need
Love your approach to your vehicle and life, enjoyed the video, thanks!
good stuff as always, take care.
I was beginning to think I was the only person who didn't want to sleep on a platform! I'm 6'3" tall, and even without a platform, I have a hard time sitting up in the back of my 2004.
You would probably be cramped in the back of mine..
@@XplorerSteveDIY Possibly. I camp in mine, much the same way you do. I have a 4" folding foam mattress that I stretch out after moving the front seats fully forward. I generally sleep just fine in it, but I do need to build out that storage space to stay better organized.
This is a better idea that I had not seen before. Bravo! 👏🏼 My one question is regarding what you did with your back seats. I’m going to take the head rests off and lay the back seats down. However, the back seats still do not lay flat. Did you have that problem? And if so, how did you deal with that problem? Thanks for your post. Very informative! 😊
Nice set up. Where did you get the curtains?
I would like my 07 Pathfinder to look like your build.
Okay I looked at your rig. I think you got the right idea cause you got kids still. It has to be convertible I think.
Always enjoy your content.
I love this little build. Everything about it makes so much sense. Good mileage, a fair amount of space to call home & very discrete. BTW "new" starters are never new, they're almost always remanufactured so it's not much different from the rebuild you do your self. Shocks are great, much cheaper than McPherson style struts and 2.7 liter is actually huge for a 4 banger. We had a FWD station wagon that was something like 1.4l and it got fantastic gas mileage for what it was. Plus you don't need 4 wheel drive as long as you keep the momentum up when the road has no traction left. I just realized you never covered what you use the above vehicle pod for.
If by "pod" you mean the roof box? Use it for storage.
Larger tires change your mph by a ratio (10%, 12% etc), so do a tire conversion comparison and figure out how much faster you drive at EACH level of speed.
Laying out a similar bed/storage space as this in my Nissan X-Trail... 👍🏼🇦🇺 ... I’d be interested on that curtain rail/track you have fitted to the curve of the roof behind front seating.
Just PVC bent with a heat gun. It is in my build video's. Have to make one for the front.
I just discovered your channel and the content is great. Thank you! I tried an elevated system in my “urban lander”...aka a Chevy Tahoe. I came to the same conclusion you did. Don’t build up.
I am SO glad i found this video! I have the same issue with car camping, im planning my build and want to do it your way but everyone seems to do the platform way. I love the way you've done it, super inspiration :)
Good luck!!
Where was this filmed? Somewhere in Vegas, perhaps? Looks familiar
100% agree. I had my crv done with a platform but i changed it after a couple of trips to be much lower down. It was so claustrophobic
For someone that "Doesn't need 4x4", you sure mention it quite a lot lol
if you own a 4runner its literally the first question anyone asks you: "4wd?"
best setup! 👍
I love your build, I did go with a platform as I travel with my girlfriend. Our platform is 5" tall and fits underbed storage containers, we use a 3" memory foam mattress so we lose 8" of headroom. Not a total loss as we are both under average height
Anywyas, love the build! For sure it's the best way for a single person to travel!
This is nice idea, but I’d like to have it to transform to the full seating so I can hold more people for around town. Any ideas?
5:37 is like a flight attendant safety presentation.
Urbanlander! I love it. That's my style too. You've done a great job w this rig, Steve. 👌
100% agree that sitting up is crucial and the platform setup isn’t ideal. Fellow 4Runner camper 👍
Love it
If you're doing a lot of sleeping, without a doubt this is the better method. Lot of people build one of these and never use it. In that particular case, the draw system is better because no one wants to climb in and out to get gear. But clearly if you're already in there, cause you're sleeping in it, then this is totally the right move. There's also another interesting reason to do this method, and I'm now considering it. I have dog boxes that need to go on top. If they're on a draw system, the back window will be blocked. Something to think about. Thanks
Thank you for sharing this.
When I first considered car camping, I thought of using my Prius due to mileage and, being able to run it for warmth or cooling.
We had rain during a tournament and I thought I’d take a nap in it. It was hell. Kudos to anyone who can and is doing it.
So, currently my Toy Rav4 is my go-to and no bed build-out. Like you, I need head-room.
I like your side storage. Something I need to explore. Thank you for sharing your adventures.
yeah, this is the way you can tell if people REALLY camp in these things or not. Real campers have some screen arrangements and spend most of their time talking about their attempts to ventilate better. Clownshow #vanlife people spend their time talking about solar panels and lithium batteries (and trying to sell you some).
What’s the story with the dummy ?
First time seeing your content and that’s because I recently got and used older explorer just because it was in the family and I got a great deal didn’t need it but I could and I am a hunter and outdoors guy and enjoy doing things alone nowadays. Im 42 years old and I agree with everything you said and your thought process before doing things even about selling the two wheel drive and buy a four wheel drive instead of taking in a bigger project like that especially if your not really into mechanic stuff. I do think if I was younger I wouldn’t think it over and would have dove right into a taller platform. Thanks for the idea that’s the part I am not to good at the ideas. If I see it I can run with it and maybe set it up for my needs and wants. Awesome job and thanks again for your time and efforts it takes and then to share.
Old Xplorer? Whatcha got? And thanks. If anything I do can help another person it’s well worth it.
"Devil's butt crack" 😅😂😂
Hi Steve. Do you leave window(s) cracked open at night for air and to prevent condensation? If you do, how would you keep the bugs out?
In case Steve is busy, I find this to work; Out west it is so dry condensation hasn't been a problem like back east, and less bugs. For bugs keep the lights off inside at night (even in mosquito capital, MI). Hot and raining though, a t-shirt closed in the door and draped over outter door frame and open window allows air and keeps rain out.
I do crack the windows and got the rain guards for that purpose. I use sun shade screens that have those little suction cups to attach them to the window. Mine fit the window and i just slide them up into the window seal. Instant bug screen. Air still gets in and out.
@@XplorerSteveDIY thanks, will try that
your 'Approach'...makes SO MUCH SENSE! Thank You for 'sharing'!!
Love your build very well done
nice truck!! from the outside looks a lot newer than 1996 cool vid!!
Very accessible and looks really comfortable. Nice looking rig!
Your Dad must be happy that you reconditioned and are able to continue to use his former SUV. You've done a really good job and it looks like new. I regret giving up on my 2002 4Runner at 100k miles, Probably could have gotten another 100-200k at least.
p.s. if your son plays his cards right, I bet there's a 4Runner in his future, am I right?
Well. He doesn't want to learn manual. Kids. He likes my Tesla 3 though.
Great video thank you. ..just while you drive before a stop do never disengage the gear to neutral you must reduce gear until second but always using the engine to break the vehicle until full stop. The way you do it the car is completely loose out of control in case of emergency stop and a lot of pressure on the breaks.
It's fine the way it is! Perfect for urban camping. You can knock out all 48 states easy! Thank you for the videos.
as an aspiring overlander with a 4L jeep cherokee, I almost never actually have to use 4 wheel drive, much less 4 wheel low, basically all it does is add weight and decrease gas mileage.
I had a 87 Toyota pickup and never used 4wd either. Added insurance costs too.
22 mph? No computers? That's golden.
I work a way from home and can spend the money on a motel I slept in a 01 Chevy Tahoe for 45 days it was cold I stayed at a TA i spent some money on showers and food I worked 7/12 it's was not bad