Off-roading as a hobby - how, what, why etc?

[Pommygranite]

So, just spitballing and musing that given going fast isn't an option here getting a $10-15k 4x4 and learning to off-road, beach driving etc sounds quite a laugh and a good hobby. Also sounds pretty good as PG Jnr gets older we go beach camping etc.

So what's the right 4wd to get, how do you start to learn (I.e join a club?) and do you need a lot of kit etc?

[Pommygranite]

Great responses chaps, thanks.

Not competitive HB - just a casual Beach, Bush type thing with the family.

Great suggestions on straps n stuff Valk and is good to hear.

So having chatted to a few:

- LC Prado is probably the one
- Petrol
- Auto
- get a good aircompressor, tyre real ease valves and good tyres, straps n stuff
- No need to spend $000's on being all gear no idea
- will join a club and take some tutorials


Will see how it goes, maybe look end of the year and plan a bit. Got the 2018 Mustang in order so this might be tight to get but definitely excited about doing some proper lifestyle stuff

[Pommygranite]

TheValk said:

You'll have been told about diesel v petrol in 4WDs by now I expect.
IMHO Prado a very under-rated performer offroad.
You may care to do a few searches re 1KZ v 1KD engines.
Buy a recovery package- not separately- and some decent gloves.
Have fun in both the vehicles- you're in the land of 'work to live' now.

Edited by TheValk on Wednesday 8th March 23:05

Edited by TheValk on Wednesday 8th March 23:06

Actually not heard too much about the diesel v petrol just keen to go simpler and high mileage diesels all seem to be a nightmare.

Prado seems to be the one with least potential issues compared to the Nissans and sturdier than Mitsi's. And do not fancy an LR or anything European.

Thanks for the engine heads up I'll check.

Good points on the tips.

Been here 10 years but realise I won't have fun going quick here with my budget but off-road will be a lot of fun. In the UK your motoring hobby is built to your environment - fast, windy roads. Here the environment is the environment - I lived an hour or so from Lancelin and right near good bush trails so seems logical to get an off-roader.

Ben - regards the Ute I thought that but think I need the covered back for practicality and amount of st we'll be carrying and need for covered spec when out.

Yep I think less is more on equipment initially.

Well mate, when you get married, breed and move to the burbs you'll have space

[Pommygranite]

Bibbs said:

Pommygranite said:

Ben - regards the Ute I thought that but think I need the covered back for practicality and amount of st we'll be carrying and need for covered spec when out.

Yep I think less is more on equipment initially.

Well mate, when you get married, breed and move to the burbs you'll have space

Yeah, I loved my Hilux Surf in the UK as it was a wagon body. One great thing was being able to put the back window down, but I'm not sure many do that anymore.

I'd look at the 'fitted' air compressor. Have it all under the bonnet.

Yeah, there is still time for that I suppose.

How about an FJ? I've seen some nice ones that are already modded for sale.

Good point on the air compressor - some bloke at work showed me the set up on his and it was pretty smart

Thought about an FJ - like them a lot. Just not sure how dark and gloomy they are inside and also with PG Jr. in the back it looks windowless almost.