Judging by how it's done in the past, I estimate that at worst I'll average 9-10 across the trip. Even loaded down, push bar on the front, round rood lights, and pulling a trailer for most of a tank, the worst I've ever done is 9.9. Of course, if I have to use a lower grade of gas in some places that could hurt it, but it shouldn't be much worse than that I wouldn't think. I'll admit, the mileage is sh*t, but atleast it's relatively constant.

 

Put in gauges.
And put in screeching buzzers or tones for low oil pressure and over heating.

 

It is almost like if you overheat you want an automatic kill switch on the engine to kick in.
And a screeching tone.
Or else you could drop a liner.

 

Take a Hawkeye or Nanocom with you. check out a few African forums (4x4 Community) and post the same question, listen carefully 'cause these guys have actually done it. Include a snorkel in your plans for the vehicle.

 

Watch these two documentaries, "The Long Way Round" and "The Long Way Down" featuring the motorcycle travels of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman. Granted, the expeditions they took, first, around the world, and then from the top of Scotland to Cape Town, were probably far more daunting than what you have in mind. Nevertheless, you might get an idea of how tricky (and expensive) it is to put together a trip like you're thinking of. The hassle of putting together all the proper paperwork to enable safe and efficient travel through numerous countries is difficult enough to dissuade most from making the attempt.

At it's worst, both questioned the sanity of their decision to undertake the expeditions but in the end they were thankful for the experience.

 

Oh yes, I've already got all the gauges. That's a must have for any of these trucks, even if it isn't going global. Thanks for the tip though.

 

Yep, I've got plans for a snorkel in the next month or two.

I will do that. I hadnt thought of that, thanks a bunch.

 

Will do, thanks Paul.

Say, do you ship internationally? If you do I might need you for some parts during the trip if I can't find any in the same country, though hopefully I won't. Better safe than sorry.

 

Alex,

You can learn alot from the folks at the Expedition Portal. There is even a section dedicated to the Land Rover group:

Expedition Portal Forum

I also recommend attending a regional Overland Rally event... or join a local Overland group. You will get to check out different vehicle setups which can help to accelerate your learning curve.

Good luck to you on your grand adventure.

 

I will definitely go talk to those guys, and I'll look for relatively close rally events too. Sadly, I've looked, and there are no local overland groups. At least not online. Hopefully one or two will start up soon, there are finally some trails opening up about an hour or so away.

Thanks!