2019 Subaru Outback (Pearl) Adventure Rig Build

  • HTML tutorial

AntWookie

Rank IV
Member

Advocate III

1,381
Tigard, Oregon, United States
First Name
Anthony
Last Name
Reid
Member #

26878

I’m finally getting to build up my already capable Outback for some overlanding adventures. I just upgraded my wheels & tires, I kept it simple with classic black steel wheels and wrapped them in the amazing BFG KO2’s. I stuck with my factory size 225/65r/17 until I do a lift kit. The KO2 is such an amazing tire and so much more capable off-roading.
I also just finished my DIY unistrut flat rack, it’s definitely overkill but I love having unlimited mounting and tie down spots along the c-channel.
Next on my list is build a drawer/cooler kitchenette setup in the back.
 

Attachments

Wawa Skittletits

Local Expert East Region USA
Staff member
Launch Member
Member

Expedition Master I

5,079
Wilkes-Barre, PA, USA
First Name
Drew
Last Name
Hawley
Member #

1537

Ham/GMRS Callsign
WRBZ674
Service Branch
USN veteran
Looking good Anthony! FYI a lift makes no difference on what fits the 5th gen.
 
  • Like
Reactions: MiamiC70

OBSki

Rank III
Member

Contributor III

797
California
First Name
Kevin
Last Name
Wski
Member #

26908

Service Branch
USAF (Ret.)
Looking good! How’s the ride, handling, and mpg’s with those new tires?
 
  • Like
Reactions: AntWookie

AntWookie

Rank IV
Member

Advocate III

1,381
Tigard, Oregon, United States
First Name
Anthony
Last Name
Reid
Member #

26878

Finally finished my DIY wind deflector for my rack. Built it out of a free piece of aluminum composite and bolted it to the bottom of the rack.
This is version-1 and so far it has worked amazing the last couple weeks. No more crazy roof vibration at freeway speeds.
 

Attachments

Fozlander

Rank I

Enthusiast I

231
Annandale, Hunterdon County, New Jersey, United States
First Name
Mark
Last Name
Bielawski
Thanks! The ride is not bad, definitely more road noise, and lost a little MPG. But the trade-off of the capabilities of the KO2s is totally worth it.
That's good to hear. Do you notice any difference in handling since you now have a significant increase in unsprung weight with steel wheels and heavy tires? I wonder how the on-road handling is since that is what gets you to the trails.

Cheers!
 

AntWookie

Rank IV
Member

Advocate III

1,381
Tigard, Oregon, United States
First Name
Anthony
Last Name
Reid
Member #

26878

Thanks! The ride is not bad, definitely more road noise, and lost a little MPG. But the trade-off of the capabilities of the KO2s is totally worth it.
That's good to hear. Do you notice any difference in handling since you now have a significant increase in unsprung weight with steel wheels and heavy tires? I wonder how the on-road handling is since that is what gets you to the trails.

Cheers!
Steering is a little heavier feeling but it’s not bad at all, and the Outback is still as nimble as ever on and off road.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Fozlander