Thread: 2012 RRS Touring Build

I like the idea, I did look to trade my D4 on a RRS V8 diesel some time ago. But you need to make them unique. Everything basic will have to be made etc.. Roof racks, Bull Bars, side steps etc.
With the kids I couldn't sacrifice the room. I have a cargo barrier aswell and love it. Couldn't live without it now, I'm not sure I would buy a Dometic fridge. I've changed a few controllers on them recently. Then again if you buy from someone like BCF you'll get service the whole way around.

I would make a call to APT first and see what he has and can do for you.

You may need to look at different fridge styles like the drawer type they make now. Or call someone like trailblaza in Qld and ask them to make you a custom built model.

In regards to being capable, I believe it will be just as good as a D4 maybe better in some situations off road, being as it is shorter. But the shorter chassis will mean less stability with the van on too.

Good luck. Love the idea but it might cost you more then it would if you went another way.

Originally Posted by 101RRS

Yes by all means pay more for Xlifter over LLAMS which will do exactly the same except level the car - if you sleep in the car then definitely get Xlifter but you indicated you will not be doing this.

You have come here asking some great questions but when people suggest alternatives, options or issues you seem to ignore that input - if you have made up your mind why come here asking for advice in the first place if you are not interested in the responses.

No dismissal of your point was intended, it is a valid one. Xlifter is purely a preference. Just like the inclination to take a RRS over a disco. I acknowledge all points made in regards to this are also valid ones and have been considered. I was hoping that my post might focus the attention on what can be done to the RRS with off the shelf mods to make it the best it can be.

Originally Posted by josh.huber

I like the idea, I did look to trade my D4 on a RRS V8 diesel some time ago. But you need to make them unique. Everything basic will have to be made etc.. Roof racks, Bull Bars, side steps etc.
With the kids I couldn't sacrifice the room. I have a cargo barrier aswell and love it. Couldn't live without it now, I'm not sure I would buy a Dometic fridge. I've changed a few controllers on them recently. Then again if you buy from someone like BCF you'll get service the whole way around.

I would make a call to APT first and see what he has and can do for you.

You may need to look at different fridge styles like the drawer type they make now. Or call someone like trailblaza in Qld and ask them to make you a custom built model.

In regards to being capable, I believe it will be just as good as a D4 maybe better in some situations off road, being as it is shorter. But the shorter chassis will mean less stability with the van on too.

Good luck. Love the idea but it might cost you more then it would if you went another way.

All very good points, the last I had not considered. Thanks

If you really want to go remote and get away from the masses, why are you considering towing 3.5 tonnes?

I would be dropping at least 1 tonne and have the ability to go to more great places.

Originally Posted by simonmelb

If you really want to go remote and get away from the masses, why are you considering towing 3.5 tonnes?

I would be dropping at least 1 tonne and have the ability to go to more great places.

Also the rrs is unlikely to tow 3.5t legally once you add gear to it, why people want to tow a behemoth on wheels is beyond me.

The D4 wheelbase makes towing a lot more stable.

It’s a significant difference that’s for certain.

It sounds a great trip. My feedback below:
• LLAMS recommended as you will get better user support on AULRO.
• throttle controller is unnecessary IMHO.
• include Linear electronics as resister is not a complete solution IMHO.
• winch seems unnecessary weight up front.
• reduce your tow weight as much as possible to reduce stress on the vehicle.
• I don’t think a 65l fridge will fit in L320 long ways. I can just fit a 57lt Engel dual zone in my L322. If you have a fridge in the van then a 40lt fridge in car should be heaps.
• IID Tool - definitely.
• long range tank - not necessary IMHO. Carry extra Jerry’s on the van for the rare occasion you will really need the range.

Good luck with the trip prep.

Hi Roscoe,

Before I post much more, can you answer a couple of questions please:

1) is the vehicle set in stone?
2) is the van choice set in stone?
3) what sort of terrain are you looking to use it primarily on? Dirt roads, sandy trails, mostly bitumen?
4) have you done this type of thing before (towed heavy)?
5) how long is a trip duration? Weeks, months etc?

Just need to understand a bit more before I respond to your build.