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78 Troopy engine choices..... advice wanted

xcentric

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Mar 27, 2018
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uk
Used to have an HZJ78 when explored Australia a fair few years ago - now looking to get a rock-solid reliable don't-break-down, fix-in-the-bush vehicle for expeditions with family and dogs. Possible trips include southern Africa, overland to India, maybe Aus, South America, Alaska - Mexico. Based in the UK, I can import LHD examples of either the HZJ78 or the 1VD-FTV engined variant.

We have a Discovery4 so don't need a luxury car or one with lots of tech. We also have 3 dogs, one large, who may well come with us, so might be towing an offroad trailer. Don't need it to do daily UK duties but trips around UK and Europe are expected.

Was focussing on the HZJ78 for its simplicity, but when it seemed we might not be able to get one, looked at the 1VD version, and there are lots of reports of great reliability too.

So some q's - any thoughts on relative reliability? Fixing in remote regions? Electronics to go wrong on the 1VD? And if they do, can it run ok without the electronic trickery? Aware the 1VD more sensitive to fuel than the HZJ, so will have additional filters and separators, and know it's a problem with high sulphur fuel - which may be an issue in bits of Africa but the correlation between high sulphur content and nations unsafe to travel through is quite high, so it may not be an issue. We can assume 500ppm typically though. not 50ppm.

More power I gather from the 1VD, and torque - much difference towing trailer esp off road? Drivability? Comfort levels?

But the critical thing is something that will get me there, and back, with minimal fuss.....

Suggestions and experiences welcome.....
 
Unapologetically, unashamedly, undoubtedly 1HZ. (for all the right reasons). Speaking from a very rich African overlanding experience some additional points to consider.
Be wise - choose your battles....
1. forget speed - outside of most major cities, road conditions are so poor that higher speed gets you into trouble (+110km/hr)
2. forget any night time travelling (Animals, Criminals, People who don't want to be seen for whatever reason..)
3. Fuel and Fuel supply (Africa runs on diesel trucks - go figure)
4. Fuel quality (All fuel is of dodgy quality - if the trucks will run on it so will your 1HZ - yes install additional water/particulate filters. )
5. Toyota must be the most popular brand in Africa. Whilst Land Cruisers are not highly visible, Hilux/Hiace are everywhere. Official Toyota agents are also available - given time, they will be able to source almost any running spares required
6. 16" tires are available in one or other format - forget the Bling Rapper sizes
7. as far as trailers /dogs go - leave them behind (sorry) as they will give you more headaches than joy. in this scenario, trailers are a self-fulfilling prophecy -more junk, requires more power, requires more time, more chances of breakdown (more opportunities for corrupt border/roadside police to harass you)
8. Water and food are available. As is firewood/charcoal (as opposed to LPG) Remember your nearest Checkers (multi supermarket) is never more than 3 days away.
9. your biggest issue will be ATM's - that are functioning...
10. notice I did not mention bush fixing/reliability/electronics/Discovery?....1HZ is your friend...
 
thanks. Echos my thoughts. Dogs won't come to Africa, but will around Europe. Any experiences of the engine when towing - is the power adequate?
 
Think tractor -it will pull but not fast. Altitude is not your friend either.
There are a couple of guys who have pulled "sand anchors"around, so it is possible.. The trouble starts when you are going uphill, heavily loaded and need to accelerate - she won't. Yes, given the right mindset and driving habits you can keep yourself out of major trouble - but know that the accelerate factor is limited. you will get very comfortable with sub 110km/h speeds :)
 
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