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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum Gear Forum Show us your new Tripping Vehicle! |
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01/09/2017 08:14PM
It seems like a lot of people have gotten new "Tripping Vehicles" this year, so I thought I would start a thread for everyone to show off their new rides......I'll start......
I traded in my 07 Suburban this past year....it was nickel & diming me to death....blown engine, wheel bearings, exhaust, tires, etc. wound up buying a 2016 Ford F-150 supercrew with the 3.5 ecoboost....Love it! I haven't done much to it. Linexed the bed and weathertech floor mats...shopping for a tonneau cover and canoe racks....
Mike
I traded in my 07 Suburban this past year....it was nickel & diming me to death....blown engine, wheel bearings, exhaust, tires, etc. wound up buying a 2016 Ford F-150 supercrew with the 3.5 ecoboost....Love it! I haven't done much to it. Linexed the bed and weathertech floor mats...shopping for a tonneau cover and canoe racks....
Mike
01/10/2017 07:38AM
Well, I loved my GMC Sierra, but it was "Attracted" to calamity. Trees, walnuts, deer, crud getting under it's skid plate. Final straw was when the dealer couldn't get the "Shake" out of the front end after the last suicidal deer; I decided to trade in. Planned on another GMC, but the "Specially tagged vehicles" that were discounted were as elusive as unicorns on our area. My wife and nephew encouraged me to check out the Fords.
I cannot use a Crew cab with my rack and Prospector 15, I need shorter cab so the bow doesn't touch the cab. So I was pleasantly surprised by the roomier back seat and easier access to it in Ford's extended cab trucks. Also, the flat floor will make it easier for dog kennels and coolers (we live an hour or more from our supermarkets, so we have to use coolers for grocery shopping).
Then, I test drove one and it handles like a car, not a work truck. The seats are more comfortable than the leather seats in the Sierra. Also, the running boards are much nicer than the Sierra's. Add the gas savings with the Ecoboost engine and cheaper payments and it was a deal I couldn't refuse. In the flat land driving I'm getting 24(+) mpg and out here in the hills still surpass 20mpg. SO glad I made the trade.
I haven't put my rack on yet, I've been carrying in the back. Seems like every day I've had time it was raining or too cold? Probably get it on this week?
I cannot use a Crew cab with my rack and Prospector 15, I need shorter cab so the bow doesn't touch the cab. So I was pleasantly surprised by the roomier back seat and easier access to it in Ford's extended cab trucks. Also, the flat floor will make it easier for dog kennels and coolers (we live an hour or more from our supermarkets, so we have to use coolers for grocery shopping).
Then, I test drove one and it handles like a car, not a work truck. The seats are more comfortable than the leather seats in the Sierra. Also, the running boards are much nicer than the Sierra's. Add the gas savings with the Ecoboost engine and cheaper payments and it was a deal I couldn't refuse. In the flat land driving I'm getting 24(+) mpg and out here in the hills still surpass 20mpg. SO glad I made the trade.
I haven't put my rack on yet, I've been carrying in the back. Seems like every day I've had time it was raining or too cold? Probably get it on this week?
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
01/10/2017 08:03AM
quote JATFOMike: "It seems like a lot of people have gotten new "Tripping Vehicles" this year, so I thought I would start a thread for everyone to show off their new rides......I'll start......
I traded in my 07 Suburban this past year....it was nickel & diming me to death....blown engine, wheel bearings, exhaust, tires, etc. wound up buying a 2016 Ford F-150 supercrew with the 3.5 ecoboost....Love it! I haven't done much to it. Linexed the bed and weathertech floor mats...shopping for a tonneau cover and canoe racks....
Mike
"
BTW, JATFOMike, approximately how much does that Linex bed coating run?
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
01/10/2017 10:39AM
I got rid of my old Ford Focus (that was given to me with a bad engine) and replaced it with an old Ford Escape with 190,000 for $1000. Here it is after driving 1500 miles to N. Sask for my summer trip. Driving it to Southern Arizona next month for a couple weeks of hiking and camping.
Alan
Alan
01/10/2017 02:22PM
quote ozarkpaddler:BTW, JATFOMike, approximately how much does that Linex bed coating run?"
"
I paid $375.00 for mine.....From what I have read, there is a very big difference in the quality of the application from one shop to the next. There are two shops in my area, one not so good and the one i went to had great reviews. I was very pleased with the job, the guy removed the bedlights/switches and all exposed bolt heads in the bed....It looks very good. You can pay extra for a UV protection additive, but it was like an additional $125.00......I passed on that.
Mike
PS- Ozarkpaddler, Love that green!
01/10/2017 04:49PM
quote JATFOMike: "quote ozarkpaddler:BTW, JATFOMike, approximately how much does that Linex bed coating run?"
"
I paid $375.00 for mine.....From what I have read, there is a very big difference in the quality of the application from one shop to the next. There are two shops in my area, one not so good and the one i went to had great reviews. I was very pleased with the job, the guy removed the bedlights/switches and all exposed bolt heads in the bed....It looks very good. You can pay extra for a UV protection additive, but it was like an additional $125.00......I passed on that.
Mike
PS- Ozarkpaddler, Love that green!"
Thanks! As for the green, my wife wanted blue, I wanted green. We let them figure out financing for both, agreeing to stick with the less expensive truck. The Green ended up being cheaper so I got my way (LOL)
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
01/10/2017 07:04PM
So many trucks - so little time . . . I love trucks. After 4 Suburbans in a row, I finally got tired of paying the Middle East $80-$100 a tank for gas. Went with a Volvo XC70 wagon for 10 years, and now have a Toyota Highlander AWD. Love the Toyota, and she turns 5 years old the end of this month. Just made the last 1% APR payment too! Hopefully, a deer doesn't take her away from me anytime soon. Only 41K miles. Should last at least 5 and maybe 10 more years. Funny - The 275 hp V6 in the Toyota has more horsepower than any of the 5.7 liter (aka 350 ci Chevy) engines than any of the Suburbans I owned. I've gotten as much as 26 mpg in the summer with the Toyota on long trips.
Tomster.
Tomster.
01/11/2017 07:56AM
I don't have a photo, but I bought a 2011 Nissan Xterra Pro4X. It folds flat in the back, so I'll sleep there instead of a tent, and it comes with Bilstein shocks, a locking rear differential, off-road tires, and skid plates on the transfer case, radiator, gas tank, and oil pan. This is all wonderful, since I'll be doing about a hundred miles on logging roads next June!
I will paddle eternal, Kevlar and carbon.
01/11/2017 08:19AM
Here's my new to me Tundra. Got a great deal on it cause it was on its side. :) Sometimes no matter what I do I can't re-orient a pic. Anywho, it's a 2006 with 59k miles. I was on my second Expedition against my better judgment (long story). It was a nice rig but I just wasn't happy with it for various reasons. Then Mrs. Deuce and I split up which left me free to do whatever I wanted so that *&%^@! Expedition went bye bye last fall. Cost me some money but it was the best check I've ever written. Among other things I love the 6' 2" bed and generous stock ground clearance. Still working out the rack situation. I'm not comfy with the bolt through the shell options because I've been known to traverse rough Ozarks roads with three or four tandem canoes on top and that seems like a good way to eventually destroy a several thousand dollar fiberglass topper. Meeting with a welder today who I think will be able to fab something up for a reasonable price. My daughter has a thing for lifted trucks and wants me put a kit on it but I won't. Probably increase tire size when I replace them but that'll be it. In a few years I'll either give it to her, keep it for a river truck or keep driving it!
You come too. -Robert Frost https://aradventuregram.com/
01/11/2017 09:43AM
This is my new 2016 Subaru Outback I got last year at Don Miller Subaru in Madison (they sponsor Canoecopia). Works well for my wife and I as it is a lot easier to load the canoe on top since it sits a lot lower than the Ford Explorer I previously had.
"Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there someday.” ~A.A. Milne
01/11/2017 09:52AM
Subaru has long been a friend to paddlers. I'd hoped to get a Brat and install a machine gun turret but my agent said he wouldn't insure it with anything over thirty caliber.
You come too. -Robert Frost https://aradventuregram.com/
01/11/2017 10:54AM
quote OldFingers57: "This is my new 2016 Subaru Outback I got last year at Don Miller Subaru in Madison (they sponsor Canoecopia). Works well for my wife and I as it is a lot easier to load the canoe on top since it sits a lot lower than the Ford Explorer I previously had. "
I'm curious, are you using the factory rack on the Outback? The guy I sold my W&C Pal to had one and I was impressed with the quick-deploy rack on it. Seemed plenty strong enough for carrying one boat?
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
01/11/2017 12:26PM
quote DeuceCoop: "Here's my new to me Tundra. Got a great deal on it cause it was on its side. :)
How does that Tundra drive on it's side like that, Luke (LOL)?
I got keyless entry on my F-150 primarily BECAUSE I liked yours on that Explorer. I thought that's so much handier than worrying about extra keys, as I have for decades? And even with me being anal about the key thing, I have ended up "Keyless" for various reasons over the years. I'm loving this keyless entry for paddling.
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
01/11/2017 12:49PM
I'm curious, are you using the factory rack on the Outback? The guy I sold my W&C Pal to had one and I was impressed with the quick-deploy rack on it. Seemed plenty strong enough for carrying one boat?"
Yes, I use the factory installed rack. No problems with it, although my canoe is only 46 lbs.
"Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there someday.” ~A.A. Milne
01/11/2017 03:42PM
quote ozarkpaddler:
I'm curious, are you using the factory rack on the Outback? The guy I sold my W&C Pal to had one and I was impressed with the quick-deploy rack on it. Seemed plenty strong enough for carrying one boat?"
We had a 2011 outback with I believe the same rack system.....I used a set of towers and carried a pair of kayaks on it cross country.....no issues at all....we are big fans of Subaru! My wife, daughter, and parents all own/drive Subarus....
Mike
01/11/2017 04:43PM
I'll be getting an Outback when my Toyota RAV4 FWD dies (nope, no AWD or 4WD which is for sissies), that could be awhile, it is a 2003 with 235, 000 miles, so I figure it's got another 5 or 6 years left. Been on Mineral Bottoms in Utah, and that road everyone is afraid of in Woodland Caribou, LongLegged Road. No problem. 28-34 mpg, screw Big Oil.
let science, not politics decide, ... but whose science?
01/11/2017 04:50PM
No "new" vehicle in the works but keeping my eyes open for another Suburban with cargo doors, 4WD, a decent body, and not more that 100K or so on it. We are on our 4th and 5th right now.... the 95 has about 235K on it (and still runs decent...but 21 years of salt...) and the 98 has around 160K. They are beasts as far as gas and repairs but it would be hard to give up the 3 seats, the cargo doors in the back, and the ability to carry 2 canoes on top cross country without being blown off the road....to say nothing about hauling a canoe trailer and gear. I feel I kindof make up for it by just carrying liability and deer insurance on them...
dr bob
dr bob
Dr Bob
01/11/2017 06:25PM
quote ZaraSp00k: "I'll be getting an Outback when my Toyota RAV4 FWD dies (nope, no AWD or 4WD which is for sissies), that could be awhile, it is a 2003 with 235, 000 miles, so I figure it's got another 5 or 6 years left. Been on Mineral Bottoms in Utah, and that road everyone is afraid of in Woodland Caribou, LongLegged Road. No problem. 28-34 mpg, screw Big Oil."
Yeah, I rarely use 4WD when driving logging roads. I use it when driving through puddles and streams.
I will paddle eternal, Kevlar and carbon.
01/11/2017 06:45PM
Subaru's Forester is very good. My wife has a 2015 model with a 4-cylinder, and she gets around 25 mpg, mostly with in-town driving, and it is a VERY zippy vehicle. I would seriously consider a pimped one when my Toyota Highlander finally bites the dust. That will be quite awhile 5-10 years.
I was able to reuse the Thule crossbars from my old Volvo on my Highlander, but it was a struggle, and I had to use a rubber mallet to finally get them on. Probably have to use a Sawzall to get them off, although I'll probably just leave them on the Toyota when I trade it in and get some new ones.
Tomster
I was able to reuse the Thule crossbars from my old Volvo on my Highlander, but it was a struggle, and I had to use a rubber mallet to finally get them on. Probably have to use a Sawzall to get them off, although I'll probably just leave them on the Toyota when I trade it in and get some new ones.
Tomster
01/12/2017 05:46AM
Any manufacture have a rack with a cross bar in the front of the car. All of the one I see have a rack that the farthest forward you can put a cross bar is lined up with the back door. My solution was to add a rack in front of the Ford rack.
The question of the day is Freedom or Socialism?? MagicPaddler
01/12/2017 08:06AM
I got a 2016 Toyota Rav4 LE FWD in April. So far I like it. I slept in it on camping trips and it holds a lot of gear.
I taped a 1-1/2" board on top of the rear Thule load bar to level the canoe because of the slanting roof rack. I had a receiver hitch installed for a bike rack and to tow my fishing boat.
I lost my beloved Red 1999 Ford Escort Station Wagon in April of 2015 because of underbody rust and 270k miles. It was my all time favorite vehicle. We saw the Pacific Ocean, crossed Death Valley and made countless trips around canoe country together.
I sold my 1994 Suburban in early 2016 because of rusted brake lines.
01/12/2017 02:39PM
quote missmolly: "quote Sjlubner: "
I always seem to have a boat or two on top of my vehicle. :)"
Steven, how often do you use your winch? I'm going back and forth on buying one."
Sure, I have only used it a couple of times. Once to help someone out of a snowy ditch and another time to pull a fallen limb to the side of the road. It is a an 8,000 lbs winch.
01/17/2017 11:48AM
quote LindenTree3: "Took this setup to Ak from MN. Granted part was on the Alaska Ferry, 2008 Ford Focus. "
Linden - I am thinking about driving up to Alaska from Minnesota in July of 2018 depending on where the price of fuel is at. Do you drive up the Alaska Highway or take a ferry from Washington? If so which do you like better?
Maybe I could go one way then the other.
Thanks.
01/17/2017 03:10PM
Zulu,
I have only taken the ferry, don't know a thing about the Alaska hwy except to hear that's involves alot of driving through endless Black Spruce in the Yukon
I took the ferry out of Bellingham Washington, to Whittier Ak. Once i got my car up there I fly back and forth, I bought a car and keep it in the L-48. I had an oops on my driving record 30 years ago (refused a breath test) and am afraid to try Canada.
I found the ferry to be very relaxing, and I got to know alot of people on the boat, they take you into more isolated routes where the big cruise ships don't go because they train alot of captains on their Ferry's. It's 5-6 nite trip, if you don't want to rent a cabin you can pitch your tent on the Solarium, bring your cooler for food and save alot of money.
If you make it to the Kenai Peninsula look me up, I'll let you use my solo and turn you unto some cool paddling, I should have a tandem by then also.
I work for the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Not sure if I'll retire in 17 or 18.
July is alot busier due to Salmon fishing, not the canoe routes, they don't see much use.
Consider June drier than July and less people.
Linden
I have only taken the ferry, don't know a thing about the Alaska hwy except to hear that's involves alot of driving through endless Black Spruce in the Yukon
I took the ferry out of Bellingham Washington, to Whittier Ak. Once i got my car up there I fly back and forth, I bought a car and keep it in the L-48. I had an oops on my driving record 30 years ago (refused a breath test) and am afraid to try Canada.
I found the ferry to be very relaxing, and I got to know alot of people on the boat, they take you into more isolated routes where the big cruise ships don't go because they train alot of captains on their Ferry's. It's 5-6 nite trip, if you don't want to rent a cabin you can pitch your tent on the Solarium, bring your cooler for food and save alot of money.
If you make it to the Kenai Peninsula look me up, I'll let you use my solo and turn you unto some cool paddling, I should have a tandem by then also.
I work for the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Not sure if I'll retire in 17 or 18.
July is alot busier due to Salmon fishing, not the canoe routes, they don't see much use.
Consider June drier than July and less people.
Linden
May the rivers be crooked and winding, and your portages lonesome, leading to the most amazing view.
01/17/2017 09:34PM
Zulu:
The Alaskan Highway is a great drive. Beautiful from start to finish. I can't wait for another chance. The Liard hot springs are situated perfectly to restore the body along the way. No sense of driving through "endless black spruce".
The Alaskan Highway is a great drive. Beautiful from start to finish. I can't wait for another chance. The Liard hot springs are situated perfectly to restore the body along the way. No sense of driving through "endless black spruce".
Nobody exists on purpose, nobody belongs anywhere, everybody’s going to die.
01/21/2017 07:45AM
quote ZaraSp00k: "I'll be getting an Outback when my Toyota RAV4 FWD dies (nope, no AWD or 4WD which is for sissies), that could be awhile, it is a 2003 with 235, 000 miles, so I figure it's got another 5 or 6 years left. Been on Mineral Bottoms in Utah, and that road everyone is afraid of in Woodland Caribou, LongLegged Road. No problem. 28-34 mpg, screw Big Oil."
Ditto on keeping my 07 RAV4 - 6 cylinder. I test drove a new RAV4 which is only in a 4 cylinder and simply not interested. Outback seems like only alternative in that size with a 6, so now planning on keeping mine for 250,000 - another 160,000. Building a teardrop trailer to go with it.
01/24/2017 02:49PM
I have had it a few years now but my 2007 Lexus GX470 has been an awesome canoe tripper. The attached picture is from the St. Regis Canoe Area in the Adirondacks. A mini-version of Boundary Waters. Cool place. I drove the family of 6 from Iowa all the way to Acadia in Maine and then back home again pulling a pop-up camper and hauling a canoe on the roof. We only day tripped with the canoe on that trip. FYI, a SR Quetico 18.5 works great for a family of 6 with minimal cargo. I made a home made rack that allows me to bolt my Spring Creek rack to the factory rack for hauling two canoes. It works great! The Lexus is swanky, but you can beat the hell out of it and it just keeps going. Tough vehicle and comfy. That's why we call it the Swank Tank.
01/24/2017 03:40PM
quote Sleepy: "Here is the Swank Tank with a full load of two canoes and pulling a camper.
"
I was looking at the GX 470 and the GX 460 great SUVs, the one thing I like about them is that they are body on frame so they have the comfort and the off road capabilities. Great adventure vehicles! How's the gas mileage on yours?
It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.
01/24/2017 06:37PM
I average 17 with a mix of city/highway. Can be as low as 15 with mostly city. I get 20 around 60 mph. Drops to 18-19 at 75 mph. I was after a similar vintage 4Runner but tough to find with 3rd row and V8. The Lexus was same price as the Toyota's and most I looked at had excellent service history and a pampered life prior to my ownership.
01/24/2017 08:04PM
quote Sleepy: "I have had it a few years now but my 2007 Lexus GX470 has been an awesome canoe tripper. The attached picture is from the St. Regis Canoe Area in the Adirondacks. A mini-version of Boundary Waters. Cool place. I drove the family of 6 from Iowa all the way to Acadia in Maine and then back home again pulling a pop-up camper and hauling a canoe on the roof. We only day tripped with the canoe on that trip. FYI, a SR Quetico 18.5 works great for a family of 6 with minimal cargo. I made a home made rack that allows me to bolt my Spring Creek rack to the factory rack for hauling two canoes. It works great! The Lexus is swanky, but you can beat the hell out of it and it just keeps going. Tough vehicle and comfy. That's why we call it the Swank Tank. "
I like it! Our '97 RAV4's door opened that way. Loved that vehicle, but it was our one and only experience with a "Lease." Would have kept it if the residual wasn't so high and they changed the design on the 2001 models. Loved that vehicle!
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
01/25/2017 09:26AM
quote : "I average 17 with a mix of city/highway. Can be as low as 15 with mostly city. I get 20 around 60 mph. Drops to 18-19 at 75 mph. I was after a similar vintage 4Runner but tough to find with 3rd row and V8. The Lexus was same price as the Toyota's and most I looked at had excellent service history and a pampered life prior to my ownership."
For some reason this post from my phone was Guest Paddler. Guess I was not logged in.
01/25/2017 09:27AM
I like it! Our '97 RAV4's door opened that way. Loved that vehicle, but it was our one and only experience with a "Lease." Would have kept it if the residual wasn't so high and they changed the design on the 2001 models. Loved that vehicle!
Yeah, the swing open door is great for canoes as long as your rack is high enough. Not much margin for error. Barley clears some canoes.
01/27/2017 12:45PM
Finally got tired of driving 2+ days (one way) to go canoeing up north. So here is this year's new ride (that and a rental car). Now if I could only find a place to tie down my canoe on that thing.
dd
"If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs" chances are you missed something. (Inspired by Rudyard Kipling.)
01/27/2017 07:33PM
quote Sleepy: "Here is the Swank Tank with a full load of two canoes and pulling a camper.
"
I have a purchased-new 2012 Toyota Highlander with the approximately 275 hp 6 cylinder engine. Yours, from what I saw on-line is 263 hp, and looks to be a very similar vehicle. How is it towing a trailer like you have? How about the fishing boat and the trailer together? Thanks.
My old tripping vehicle was a Volvo XC70, which was basically a 225 hp 4 wheel drive station wagon. Good car/SUV. Been on BWCA 5 trips with the current Toyota Highlander. Like the Toyota better - a tad better mileage, AWD, satellite radio, regular gas, zero repairs, no rattles or rust, etc. Never even been maimed by the air bags! It only has 42,000 miles on it, so I'll likely keep it for many more years. Just replaced the original tires, and other than oil and air filter changes, that was my only expense. May replace the battery next fall, just to be safe for winter.
Tomster
01/30/2017 12:53PM
quote billconner: "quote ZaraSp00k: "I'll be getting an Outback when my Toyota RAV4 FWD dies (nope, no AWD or 4WD which is for sissies), that could be awhile, it is a 2003 with 235, 000 miles, so I figure it's got another 5 or 6 years left. Been on Mineral Bottoms in Utah, and that road everyone is afraid of in Woodland Caribou, LongLegged Road. No problem. 28-34 mpg, screw Big Oil."
Ditto on keeping my 07 RAV4 - 6 cylinder. I test drove a new RAV4 which is only in a 4 cylinder and simply not interested. Outback seems like only alternative in that size with a 6, so now planning on keeping mine for 250,000 - another 160,000. Building a teardrop trailer to go with it. "
I have the 2016 Hyundai Tucson... same class as the Rav 4. It's a 4 cylinder, but it's turbo-charged and has plenty of pep at all speeds. And I get 30-33 MPG combined with the Eco model. I love it. The Santa Fe, which is a bit larger, comes in a V6.
Roof rails are part of the standard package, but no cross bars. I got some Thule Aerobars and had to get a separate "fit kit" that let me mount them on the rails. The instructions that Thule sent were utterly useless, but etrailer.com (where I ordered them from) has videos installation on just about every make and model of car. Once I found those, they went on very quickly. Their customer service was also excellent - one of the bolts that came in the fit kit had jacked up threads and etrailer sent me a new bolt very quickly. I don't understand why Thule didn't include an extra, but... whatareyagonnado?
02/02/2017 08:07AM
My heart is breaking that no one else is a Element owner here.... I am on my 2nd one, first one I traded in with 300,000 Miles + and was able to find one last year with 22k in miles (pure luck). I love my element, greatest car EVER!!!! plus oddest looking thing too. El Guapo has a brush guard and tail light guards now, and in the process of adding a Gobi roof rack and some newer tires, but here he is bare bones fresh back from the dealer...... RIP Eddie (last element)...
Cheers,
Alika
Cheers,
Alika
02/02/2017 06:16PM
quote deanalika: "My heart is breaking that no one else is a Element owner here.... I am on my 2nd one, first one I traded in with 300,000 Miles + and was able to find one last year with 22k in miles (pure luck). I love my element, greatest car EVER!!!! plus oddest looking thing too. El Guapo has a brush guard and tail light guards now, and in the process of adding a Gobi roof rack and some newer tires, but here he is bare bones fresh back from the dealer...... RIP Eddie (last element)...
Cheers,
Alika
"
Loved ours. We had one for 7 years and I miss it. The wife wanted something better on gas and better handling. She now regrets her decision (as do I). Here's some old pics of our old Sunset Orange Pearl perfect paddling and camping and doggie mobile. You want Element pics? You asked for it (LOL)!
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
02/03/2017 01:26AM
I'm excited. I used to drive trucks. Then I've gone through 4 minivans while kids were growing up.
Gonna start looking for a new truck in a month or so. Gotta do some homework. Not sure of Ford Chevy or Dodge.. Might even look at the tacoma... I have a 26 ft 5th wheel but I just use that for deer camp.
I'm a nother year I'd like to get a slide in box camper for the truck.mainly for bringing up to the BWCA. That way I can tailor my boat up to.
Drop the camper and still be able to tailor the boat around to fish the lakes..
Love the tent at Fall lake but looking for a little more comfort.
Don't think it will be a single cab. Probably a cab and a half. Not gonna rule out a double cab though.
GONNA BE FUN FINDING THE RIGHT TRUCK...
ANY THOUGHTS....
Gonna start looking for a new truck in a month or so. Gotta do some homework. Not sure of Ford Chevy or Dodge.. Might even look at the tacoma... I have a 26 ft 5th wheel but I just use that for deer camp.
I'm a nother year I'd like to get a slide in box camper for the truck.mainly for bringing up to the BWCA. That way I can tailor my boat up to.
Drop the camper and still be able to tailor the boat around to fish the lakes..
Love the tent at Fall lake but looking for a little more comfort.
Don't think it will be a single cab. Probably a cab and a half. Not gonna rule out a double cab though.
GONNA BE FUN FINDING THE RIGHT TRUCK...
ANY THOUGHTS....
Ah retired @ 50
02/06/2017 02:33PM
quote quark2222: "quote Sleepy: "Here is the Swank Tank with a full load of two canoes and pulling a camper.
"
I have a purchased-new 2012 Toyota Highlander with the approximately 275 hp 6 cylinder engine. Yours, from what I saw on-line is 263 hp, and looks to be a very similar vehicle. How is it towing a trailer like you have? How about the fishing boat and the trailer together? Thanks.
My old tripping vehicle was a Volvo XC70, which was basically a 225 hp 4 wheel drive station wagon. Good car/SUV. Been on BWCA 5 trips with the current Toyota Highlander. Like the Toyota better - a tad better mileage, AWD, satellite radio, regular gas, zero repairs, no rattles or rust, etc. Never even been maimed by the air bags! It only has 42,000 miles on it, so I'll likely keep it for many more years. Just replaced the original tires, and other than oil and air filter changes, that was my only expense. May replace the battery next fall, just to be safe for winter.
Tomster"
Towing is great but that is because of the torque of the V8. Don't get hung up in horsepower numbers. When it comes to towing and really general driving, the 323 lb-ft of torque is a great fit for this vehicle and a more important number. Full-time 4 wheel drive is also beneficial for towing even on dry pavement. My mom has a 2012 Highlander and the V6 is plenty powerful, but it is nothing compared to mine. Mine is rated for to tow 6,500 lbs which 1,500 lbs. more than the Highlander properly equipped. A solid rear axle and air suspension help with heavy loads too. I would think the Highlander could handle my pop-up with a load though.
02/06/2017 03:50PM
The Lexus GX-470 is built on the same chassis as the 4-Runner- it started life as a truck making it a little more adept at towing heavy loads than the Highlander which is built off the Camry chassis.
Nobody exists on purpose, nobody belongs anywhere, everybody’s going to die.
02/06/2017 04:35PM
Bought a Toyota Tacoma to replace my 2011 Jeep Patriot which I initially loved but they lied about mileage really bad and the transmission died in Joliet IL on the way back from the Rio Grande in TX at only 132k miles. Left me stranded for two days in a motel while it cost me 4k to replace the trainy. If you are thinking of a Patriot call me first!!! Love the Toyota, built a rack for it but will be getting a cap this spring so I can sleep/camp--I'm not a fan of motels if I can help it and I travel far when I can. Photo at Round Lake this May.
02/07/2017 09:57AM
quote yogi59weedr: "I'm excited. I used to drive trucks. Then I've gone through 4 minivans while kids were growing up.
Gonna start looking for a new truck in a month or so. Gotta do some homework. Not sure of Ford Chevy or Dodge.. Might even look at the tacoma... I have a 26 ft 5th wheel but I just use that for deer camp.
I'm a nother year I'd like to get a slide in box camper for the truck.mainly for bringing up to the BWCA. That way I can tailor my boat up to.
Drop the camper and still be able to tailor the boat around to fish the lakes..
Love the tent at Fall lake but looking for a little more comfort.
Don't think it will be a single cab. Probably a cab and a half. Not gonna rule out a double cab though.
GONNA BE FUN FINDING THE RIGHT TRUCK...
ANY THOUGHTS...."
I will apologize in advance Yogi if you have already discovered this in your research....but if you are considering a slide in camper and towing a boat, you will probably have to start your search for a truck in the 3/4 to 1 ton payload range......Half tons will probably not work for you...there are a couple of smaller slide in campers geared towards the 1/2 ton trucks, but then once you factor in your boat and other gear, you will probably exceed your payload......"Payload" is going to be the key to your search! My "1/2 ton" supercrew F150 actually has a payload of 1600 #'s, but it would be very tight to find a slide in camper with all my gear and a small lightweight boat/motor that I could tow safely......Good Luck in your search!
Mike
02/07/2017 11:57AM
Mike, thanks for the info.
My boat is just a little 14ftr with a 15 hp.
Not much weight for towing. After looking at some campers on line I think I'm going to run into a problem with bed lenght
I noticed some campers in the 900 - 1400 lb weights. Just starting to look I know the truck will come in the next month or two. The slide in probably next year.
I'm comfortable staying in my big tent. Easy to set up. Double high queen air matress.
I'm 6'4" and can stand up and move around in the tent. I've stayed up there 28 days, and was comfortable. The slide in would add to that comfort. But I'm in no real hurry. The truck is my 1st quest. Will be my 1st brand new vehicle.
Again thanks with info on payload. That's one thing I'll have to look into.
My boat is just a little 14ftr with a 15 hp.
Not much weight for towing. After looking at some campers on line I think I'm going to run into a problem with bed lenght
I noticed some campers in the 900 - 1400 lb weights. Just starting to look I know the truck will come in the next month or two. The slide in probably next year.
I'm comfortable staying in my big tent. Easy to set up. Double high queen air matress.
I'm 6'4" and can stand up and move around in the tent. I've stayed up there 28 days, and was comfortable. The slide in would add to that comfort. But I'm in no real hurry. The truck is my 1st quest. Will be my 1st brand new vehicle.
Again thanks with info on payload. That's one thing I'll have to look into.
Ah retired @ 50
02/08/2017 01:25AM
Agree with Mike about the truck being a 3/4 or one ton. A cab high camper might be ok on a half ton truck but a cab over camper catches allot of wind. That is a big issue with slide in campers. On the highway cross winds are not fun to drive in. I have owned a cab over camper for many years and have made a dozen trips from Calif. to Wisc. and back. They are really nice to travel in if you have the correct setup. Good luck in your research.
02/22/2017 11:19PM
Got my truck yesterday.
Decided on the 2017 Chevy silverado.double cab.
Thought about the crew cab,then I thought bagain.
Got the white.was gonna get the fire engine red, but I thought again.
I stayed with the 1500. I'm deciding against the slide in over the cab camper..
I already have a 5th wheel, I would only use it for 1 trip a year and can't justify it. I'm just as comfortable with my big tent and double high queen........so I'm officially out of the mini van phase of my life... yea!!!!!!!!!!.
Now I've only got to get 3 full time jobs to pay for it.
Ah retired @ 50
02/23/2017 08:26AM
quote yogi59weedr: "
Got my truck yesterday.
Decided on the 2017 Chevy silverado.double cab.
Thought about the crew cab,then I thought bagain.
Got the white.was gonna get the fire engine red, but I thought again.
I stayed with the 1500. I'm deciding against the slide in over the cab camper..
I already have a 5th wheel, I would only use it for 1 trip a year and can't justify it. I'm just as comfortable with my big tent and double high queen........so I'm officially out of the mini van phase of my life... yea!!!!!!!!!!.
Now I've only got to get 3 full time jobs to pay for it."
The Yakima Outdoorsman works great with the Chevy/GM trucks. Have used it on them for years until I jumped ship last November and bought an F-150.
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
02/23/2017 03:02PM
My buddies rig in AK.
Tominmpls, just saw your question, this pic is the same as what I do with mine and is where I learned it from.
Using a rachett strap you throw it around the canoe and connect the ends underneath and tighten. But you have to do a loop over the car rack on each side of the canoe where it touches the gunnels. This keeps it from sliding across the canoe rack.
Hard to explain and I deleted the picture.
No front or rear tie down needed.
Tominmpls, just saw your question, this pic is the same as what I do with mine and is where I learned it from.
Using a rachett strap you throw it around the canoe and connect the ends underneath and tighten. But you have to do a loop over the car rack on each side of the canoe where it touches the gunnels. This keeps it from sliding across the canoe rack.
Hard to explain and I deleted the picture.
No front or rear tie down needed.
May the rivers be crooked and winding, and your portages lonesome, leading to the most amazing view.
02/24/2017 11:15PM
I drive my grandparents' cars up to the BWCA, since I come from Seattle - and so I've driven a couple of Mazdas and a really nice Subaru Forester up there.
My real tripping rig is back at home in Washington, though, and that's, ahem, my parents' 1999 Suburban. 145K with a new engine and new radiator and going strong. This baby has been in my life since I was 4 years old, and I learned to drive on it, and now it's my constant companion on all my outdoor activities. This baby has been on many gravel and mountain roads and Lord willing will be on many more.
and here's a relevant song for you:
It'll Get You Where You're Going
My real tripping rig is back at home in Washington, though, and that's, ahem, my parents' 1999 Suburban. 145K with a new engine and new radiator and going strong. This baby has been in my life since I was 4 years old, and I learned to drive on it, and now it's my constant companion on all my outdoor activities. This baby has been on many gravel and mountain roads and Lord willing will be on many more.
and here's a relevant song for you:
It'll Get You Where You're Going
aka HermitThrush "Such sights as this are reserved for those who will suffer to behold them." -Eric Sevareid
02/24/2017 11:24PM
quote ozarkpaddler: "Well, I loved my GMC Sierra, but it was "Attracted" to calamity. Trees, walnuts, deer, crud getting under it's skid plate. Final straw was when the dealer couldn't get the "Shake" out of the front end after the last suicidal deer; I decided to trade in. Planned on another GMC, but the "Specially tagged vehicles" that were discounted were as elusive as unicorns on our area. My wife and nephew encouraged me to check out the Fords.
I cannot use a Crew cab with my rack and Prospector 15, I need shorter cab so the bow doesn't touch the cab. So I was pleasantly surprised by the roomier back seat and easier access to it in Ford's extended cab trucks. Also, the flat floor will make it easier for dog kennels and coolers (we live an hour or more from our supermarkets, so we have to use coolers for grocery shopping).
Then, I test drove one and it handles like a car, not a work truck. The seats are more comfortable than the leather seats in the Sierra. Also, the running boards are much nicer than the Sierra's. Add the gas savings with the Ecoboost engine and cheaper payments and it was a deal I couldn't refuse. In the flat land driving I'm getting 24(+) mpg and out here in the hills still surpass 20mpg. SO glad I made the trade.
I haven't put my rack on yet, I've been carrying in the back. Seems like every day I've had time it was raining or too cold? Probably get it on this week?
"
That F-150 is a pretty sweet looking car, and love the color. Why don't people like dark green cars anymore? I do.
aka HermitThrush "Such sights as this are reserved for those who will suffer to behold them." -Eric Sevareid
02/28/2017 08:56AM
quote SaganagaJoe: "quote Sjlubner: "
I always seem to have a boat or two on top of my vehicle. :)"
Would that by some chance have the indestructible 4.0L in her?"
Love the 4.0L. That one has it. I went through 3 Jeep Cherokees. a 1993, 1992, and another 1993. Put over 200k miles on each of them with no mechanical problems. Easy to work on, cheap parts, I miss the old 4.0L. One weakness though. My friend had a plastic piece break on the bottom of the engine that caused all the oil to drain out while going 75 mph on the interstate. That engine died! New engine was only about $2k though.
02/28/2017 05:41PM
quote Sleepy: "quote SaganagaJoe: "quote Sjlubner: "
I always seem to have a boat or two on top of my vehicle. :)"
Would that by some chance have the indestructible 4.0L in her?"
Love the 4.0L. That one has it. I went through 3 Jeep Cherokees. a 1993, 1992, and another 1993. Put over 200k miles on each of them with no mechanical problems. Easy to work on, cheap parts, I miss the old 4.0L. One weakness though. My friend had a plastic piece break on the bottom of the engine that caused all the oil to drain out while going 75 mph on the interstate. That engine died! New engine was only about $2k though."
The Jeep reliability ratings have me rather wary of ever buying one but I will say that the new Wrangler pickup coming out in a few years is a pretty sweet looking vehicle.
aka HermitThrush "Such sights as this are reserved for those who will suffer to behold them." -Eric Sevareid
02/28/2017 06:20PM
It's certainly not my NEW tripping vehicle, but I wanted to share after seeing everyone else's. I get so bugged by how this was taken before I corrected someone's incorrect strapping of the canoe, though.
I wouldn't buy a new Jeep, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy any 87-01 Cherokee, 93-04 Grand, or 86-06 Wrangler.
02/28/2017 06:24PM
quote deanalika: "My heart is breaking that no one else is a Element owner here.... I am on my 2nd one, first one I traded in with 300,000 Miles + and was able to find one last year with 22k in miles (pure luck). I love my element, greatest car EVER!!!! plus oddest looking thing too. El Guapo has a brush guard and tail light guards now, and in the process of adding a Gobi roof rack and some newer tires, but here he is bare bones fresh back from the dealer...... RIP Eddie (last element)...
Cheers,
Alika
"
Elements might be the most functional vehicle every created. Years ago my wife had one that she was leasing. Still kicking ourselves for not buying it after the lease was up. We used that Element for moving multiple time and many adventures. They make great campers as well. Hoping one day we'll get another one.
02/28/2017 09:34PM
quote mschi772: "
It's certainly not my NEW tripping vehicle, but I wanted to share after seeing everyone else's. I get so bugged by how this was taken before I corrected someone's incorrect strapping of the canoe, though.
I wouldn't buy a new Jeep, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy any 87-01 Cherokee, 93-04 Grand, or 86-06 Wrangler."
Well, a Great Canadian canoe! Most comfortable seats ever made. Every subsequent canoe we've ever had, my wife has pointed out that the seats can't compare to that one's. Had ours for several years until we moved out of state in 1989.
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
03/01/2017 07:20PM
quote mschi772: "
It's certainly not my NEW tripping vehicle, but I wanted to share after seeing everyone else's. I get so bugged by how this was taken before I corrected someone's incorrect strapping of the canoe, though.
I wouldn't buy a new Jeep, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy any 87-01 Cherokee, 93-04 Grand, or 86-06 Wrangler."
You're a lucky person if you have a Jeep with a 4.0L, an Element, and a Subaru Outback all in that good of a condition! Set for life.
aka HermitThrush "Such sights as this are reserved for those who will suffer to behold them." -Eric Sevareid
05/05/2017 03:48PM
quote SaganagaJoe: "quote mschi772: "
It's certainly not my NEW tripping vehicle, but I wanted to share after seeing everyone else's. I get so bugged by how this was taken before I corrected someone's incorrect strapping of the canoe, though.
I wouldn't buy a new Jeep, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy any 87-01 Cherokee, 93-04 Grand, or 86-06 Wrangler."
You're a lucky person if you have a Jeep with a 4.0L, an Element, and a Subaru Outback all in that good of a condition! Set for life. "
The Element was a company car that the girlfriend doesn't have anymore; they stuck her with a stupid Prius now. The Outback was AWESOME--totally rust free 98 with like 80k miles--but it was showing signs of a head gasket failure, and we unloaded it before it screwed us cuz she wasn't totally in love with that car anyway. Now it's just the XJ and a commuter Metro which is still a great automotive situation.
05/11/2017 07:56PM
The same tripping vehicle with a new tripping canoe on top.
I just bought this Ally folding canoe and took her out the other day for a overnighter in our Canoe Wilderness on Kenai Peninsula AK.
I just bought this Ally folding canoe and took her out the other day for a overnighter in our Canoe Wilderness on Kenai Peninsula AK.
May the rivers be crooked and winding, and your portages lonesome, leading to the most amazing view.
05/15/2017 07:09PM
quote ozarkpaddler: "quote maxxbhp: " "
You gotta admire that level of devotion
Heheheh, bring that up here when the rivers open back up, I wanna see you in that (LOL)!"
"...And the days I keep my gratitude higher than my expectations, .......well, I have really good days". Ray Wiley Hubbard
05/16/2017 06:31AM
quote billconner: "The Tacoma's seem to deprecate less than most. I look once in a while."
I found that as well, read something that they hold their value better than any vehicle. Took me a good amount of time to find mine, most were unaffordable in my mind.
He leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. Psalm 23:2/3
05/16/2017 04:09PM
quote SaganagaJoe: "quote maxxbhp: " "
Fully respect your decision to get one, but how safe do you feel in that thing?
That's still pretty sweet. "
A friend from work had a brother who had one and I had to drive one once. It was fun to tool around the parking lot, but I cannot imagine a long trip in one with a canoe on top? Of course, some of our friends joke about our other vehicle too, our Chevy Sonic. But we've made a few canoe trips with it:
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
05/16/2017 07:41PM
Ragged,
I see you have the Thule Goalpost on your pickup.
What did you attach the 2 blue straps that come out from the center post to?
I was thinking of attaching my 2 straps down from the center of the Goalpost to the bottom open tabs that are just to the side of my 2 inch hitch receiver on my Ford 150.
Trying to maximize stability of the Goal Post while travelling.
05/16/2017 07:59PM
quote SaganagaJoe: "quote maxxbhp: " "
Fully respect your decision to get one, but how safe do you feel in that thing?
That's still pretty sweet. "
I'm just screwin' around. My truck and the trailer I built. I built the trailer to haul my Rogue sorta like a bass boat, but I built a removable rack that hauls 2 more boats if needed.
"...And the days I keep my gratitude higher than my expectations, .......well, I have really good days". Ray Wiley Hubbard
05/16/2017 08:32PM
quote Wally13: "
Ragged,
I see you have the Thule Goalpost on your pickup.
What did you attach the 2 blue straps that come out from the center post to?
I was thinking of attaching my 2 straps down from the center of the Goalpost to the bottom open tabs that are just to the side of my 2 inch hitch receiver on my Ford 150.
Trying to maximize stability of the Goal Post while travelling."
That's not a Thule goal post, it's s rig I designed, but it does us a modified Thule bar so I can run the same bar mounts in the rear that I do on the front. That rack folds up very compact and can be locked in the 5ft bed of my Tacoma. The rack has a little bar with holes and the straps go to the tie downs on the bed floor.
Some better pics can be seen here
He leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. Psalm 23:2/3
05/16/2017 09:57PM
quote maxxbhp: "quote SaganagaJoe: "quote maxxbhp: " "
Fully respect your decision to get one, but how safe do you feel in that thing?
That's still pretty sweet. "
I'm just screwin' around. My truck and the trailer I built. I built the trailer to haul my Rogue sorta like a bass boat, but I built a removable rack that hauls 2 more boats if needed. "
I knew you were messin' around, Bill, I've seen that purty Nissan of yours!
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
06/02/2017 02:54PM
quote SaganagaJoe: "quote jwb747: "Cool kids in their favorite tripping vehicle.
"
#LoveMySuburban
"
My Suburban turned 10 last weekend. I can't imagine a better tripping vehicle. This is my second one. Hoping for Suburban #3 in 5 years.
There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes.
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