Hey everyone! My name is Steve and I have been backpacking and 4wheeling my entire life, so I decided to take this overloading as a hobby. I have had a couple vehicles, but only my Jeep have I done long trips in. I had a 1998 Range Rover that had coil suspension and roof rack and a winch. And I have had my Jeep Liberty for 9 years and it has done me well. Not very powerful compared to the V8s I've had, but it is fun. It has a 4" lift kit with OME and Bilstein shocks, ARB bumper with XRC8, HID lights, custom rock rails and roof rack, interior rack (soon to be modified) - ARB a/c, Safari Snorkel and a kick ass sound system...well it was years ago lol. I've currently got Hurcules tires that a shop in Flagstaff recommended and gave me a killer deal, so I'll wear these out, but I'll most likely get duratracs again. It's had a engine replaced at 48k and just recently the transmission got rebuilt and all new mounting hardware for it and engine mounts, but that is due to it having 150k and living in Chicago from road salt and mountain driving in Flagstaff (and all around the surrounding areas.)
Went to Overland Expo West this year and got some goodies and ideas. Saw the booth and decided to sign up while I could.
The things I want to add in the future are 4 lift blocks for my rear shelf and then create a rear storage unit (one drawer and one flip up cargo bay) I want it high enough to take panels out to sleep in the rig. No need for a fridge, I have a Yeti that is fine for my needs. Potential rear bumper w/ swing out tire carrier, jerry can mount, and with an antenna mount somewhere near a taillight (multiple failed cb mounts, living in the midwest and wheeling at terrain parks ripped off my cb multiple times) And I might pull the trigger on a Tepui RTT, depends if i can find a used or just pay the cost!
Rig - 2003 Jeep Liberty w/ stuff (these are older photos, will post newer ones soon)
I currently live in Flagstaff, Az. Moving down to Phoenix soon for less than a year. Then we will see where work brings me! Hopefully Chicagoland area.
I've gone on a few solo trips in the Tonto Nat Forest, out near the North Kiabab and in Western Moab area. But I have been on multiple backpacking trips that ranged from 3-25 days/nights. A lot of experience with map reading, route creation, food prep/dehydration and have outdoor certifications as well. Love facilitating to the group, here for the fun!
I'll post pictures here and there. Might be asking questions later on with drawers and what kind of slides to use for weight, etc.
Regards,
Steve