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2000 Ford Excursion Overlander

One of the best examples of a Ford Excursion you’ll ever find for overlanding is this 2000 Ford Excursion Diesel 4×4 owned and built by Chris Cordes. Chris has many years of experience in overlanding, and is the managing editor for Expedition Portal. Chris’ plan was to turn this low slung SUV into a versatile backcountry vehicle; one that could take the whole family camping, haul a 10,000-lb trailer, or set out on an around-the-world journey with equal ease. He definitely succeeded.

He started out by adding an Old Man Emu 2.25 inch suspension lift to this beast. Some may think that all new springs may be a drastic way to gain such a mild lift, but Chris researched all the options carefully. The Excursion’s stock suspension doesn’t offer the best ride, and the suspension tends to bottom out fairly easily on bumps.

How does Old Man Emu make old-fashioned leaf springs work so well? A lot of technology goes into each leaf, including shot peening to reduce spring stress, diamond cutting the ends to make them thinner and more flexible, and military wraps for less axlewrap and a margin of safety should a main leaf break. The springs also use bolt clamps instead of crimp clamps, and Teflon liners and graphite paint to reduce friction and provide a smoother ride.

The kit came with Old Man Emu Nitrocharger shocks which use low-pressure nitrogen and multistage valving. This eliminates oil starvation at high speed and greatly reduces heat and pressure build up. It also came with a new adjustable panhard bar to center the front axle under the Excursion.

Chris also decided to install an additional leaf in the rear, which helps compensate for the Excursion’s 44-gallon fuel tank

Old Man Emu 2.25 Inch Lift Kit Components:

• 2 x #CS018F Medium/Heavy Load Leaf Springs (0-300LBS) – LINK
• 2 x #N178 Nitrocharger Shocks
• 1 x #APRF250 Adjustable Panhard Rod – LINK
• 4 x #OMEU69 U-Bolt – LINK
• 2 x #CS048R Medium Load Leaf Springs (0-1200LBS) – LINK
• 2 x #N179 Nitrocharger Shocks
• 4 x #ARBOMEU67 OME U BOLT, WASHER/NUT

The Old Man Emu suspension allowed room for the  315/75/R16 Falken Wildpeak M/T tires on the stock Ford rims.

An ARB Winch Bumper (P/N 3436030)  was added to the front, along with a set of IPF Extreme LED Sport lights . The driver’s side light is a spot beam which illuminates a long and narrow stretch of the road ahead, while the passenger side is a touring beam for coverage to the sides of the road. This combination gives him far more visibility than the stock headlights.

A heavy beast like this requires a big winch if it should get stuck, so a Warn 16.5 Ti-S winch was added to the ARB winch bumper. The 16.5 Ti-S winch comes with 80 feet of Spydura Pro synthetic line.

The roof received a Pioneer Platform from Rhino Rack. A Foxwing 270° awning was added to it, along with mounts for sand ladders (traction mats) and bicycle racks. The Foxwing gives him an escape from the heat and sun, cover from rain and snow during bad weather, and a protected space for him to cook and work while living on the road.

Finding a snorkel for the Ford F250 / F350 / Excursion can be difficult, but Chris lucked out and found a new TJM Airtec Snorkel (P/N 011SAT0122F) that was listed for sale by a member on the Expedition Portal Forums. Some only see a snorkel as a device used to traverse deep water. But since the snorkel’s air supply is drawn from roof level, it provides cooler and cleaner air to the engine. This helps reduce the dirt and dust that accumulates on the air filter.

At the rear, Chris installed a new steel bumper with a dual swing out from Buckstop Truckware . This not only provides a location for the larger spare tire (to big to fit inside), but also features a 120 liter Alu-Box from Equipt Expedition Outfitters. The Alu-Box allows a convenient place to store the cooking supplies / gear.

With the exterior finished, the interior was upgraded with  Scheel-Mann Vario XLs seats with heat and armrests. If you’ve had problems with your back while driving, then you’ll love these seats.

To read more about Chris Cordes’ 2000 Ford Excursion and follow the build up, click HERE .

Click the photos to enlarge – click the arrows to load more.

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24 Best Vans, Trucks, And SUVs For Overland Expeditions

Posted: March 27, 2024 | Last updated: March 27, 2024

Overlanding is getting more popular every year as new car enthusiasts discover the joys of combining driving with outdoor activities. It has given birth to a whole industry of specialist companies that convert trucks, SUVs, and vans into overland vehicles.

In this article, we’ll focus on vehicles that come straight from the manufacturer, either in overland-ready form or for owners to convert themselves. There are several factors to consider when buying an overland vehicle, including payload, fuel economy, power output, reliability, and running costs. SUVs, crossovers, trucks, and vans have different pros and cons, and you must decide which will best suit your expedition needs.

Once you’ve decided on a vehicle, it’s time to add the standard overlanding modifications, usually consisting of a roof rack with a tent, chunky tires, beefy suspension, and a snorkel. Check out 24 of the best vans, trucks, and SUVs for overland expeditions.

Land Rover Defender 110

We may as well start with the most obvious choice – the classic Land Rover Defender. For many, this is the vehicle they imagine when the conversation steers into off-road overland expeditions.

Land Rovers of the past may have a somewhat sketchy reputation regarding reliability, but that hasn’t stopped people from exploring every corner of the world behind the wheel of one. With the right mods, the Defender will practically go anywhere, and if you’re handy with the tools, you’ll be able to keep it running forever as well.

Toyota FJ Cruiser

Evil tongues will make you believe that the Toyota FJ Cruiser is a fancy retro-style SUV without any off-road credentials. Nothing could be further from the truth. The FJ Cruiser can be quite a beast.

The FJ Cruiser’s underpinnings are based on the Land Cruiser Prado, and its engine is the 1GR-FE V6 – one of the most reliable engines Toyota has ever made. Thanks to its short overhangs, the FJ Cruiser can tackle some seriously steep approach- and departure angles, and it can even wade through 30 inches of water.

Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

It’s not without reason that many overlanding and off-road enthusiasts choose the Toyota Tacoma as their trusty steed. The Taco is practically indestructible , and if that’s not good enough, there are enough aftermarket parts to make it something truly special.

It doesn’t matter whether you buy a brand-new or a used Tacoma; with just regular servicing, it can practically last forever. Fit some off-road parts, and it can take you places you can’t imagine.

Nissan Pathfinder

Nissan’s reputation may not be what it once was – largely thanks to some questionable transmissions in some of its new cars. There’s no questioning the Nissan Pathfinder’s build quality, though.

Its name is synonymous with off-road adventures but can still be used as an everyday vehicle. Nissan has built Pathfinders since the 1980s, so even those on a budget can get their hands on one. Aftermarket parts will turn it into a proper overland machine, and the newest version is practically ready to go straight from the showroom floor.

Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

The Toyota Tundra is like a Japanese F-150 but with even better reliability. It’s been around for a long time, and people have turned them into racing trucks, off-road trucks, and everything in between. It’s pretty much guaranteed that you can find the parts needed for your build.

Opting for the latest TRD Pro version of the Tundra gives you a 437 horsepower 3.5-liter engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, Fox shocks, aluminum skid plates, and underbody protection. It’s ready for adventure straight out of the box.

Ram built the TRX to destroy Ford’s F-150 Raptor. Its engine is the same 702 horsepower V8 found under the Dodge Challenger’s hood. Couple that with 4×4, and you know this thing can tackle off-road terrain at high speeds.

Ram also provided it with proper off-road suspension, plenty of ground clearance, fat off-road tires, and underbody protection. All you need to add are essentials such as a fridge, some tools, and a couple of jerrycans, and you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Jeep Wrangler

Everybody knows about the Jeep Wrangler’s off-road abilities, so there’s no question that it belongs on this list. Over the years, the Wrangler has suffered from various issues , such as the infamous death wobble, but solutions are available to solve most known problems.

The Wrangler is one of the most modified vehicles in the world, so you can easily turn it into a genuinely unique overland vehicle.

Ford Bronco

Old Broncos come with serious off-road credentials. Unfortunately, they also have ridiculous price tags. Luckily, Ford reintroduced the Bronco with retro styling, modern reliability, and its classic sibling’s off-road capabilities.

There are various powertrains to choose from, and even if you go with a base model, the Bronco comes with 11.6 inches of ground clearance and rear diff locks.

Mercedes-Benz Unimog

Some excellent off-road vehicles are found on this list, but few can match the Unimog when the going gets really tough.

The Mercedes Unimog is used by military and firefighters worldwide because of its off-road capabilities. It has even found its way to Dakar Rally rally raids. It can go anywhere in stock form, but if you have something extreme in mind, there are companies that specialize in these off-road legends.

Nissan Patrol GQ/GU

Buying an older Nissan Patrol is one of the best options for overlanders on a budget. It features 4×4, live axles, ladder-frame chassis construction, and a reliable engine – traits you want in an overland vehicle.

The Patrol is as reliable as a Land Cruiser, and with a suspension lift and some heavy-duty tires, it can go anywhere without causing you any headaches.

Mitsubishi Montero/Pajero/Shogun

Mitsubishi sold this SUV as the Montero in the US, Pajero in Europe, and Shogun in Spanish-speaking markets. It’s been around for decades, and every generation is a solid option for an overland build.

Older models are pretty basic, but they’re also cheap. Newer ones offer everything you’d expect in a modern vehicle. Off-road-wise, they’re right up there with the Toyota Land Cruiser.

Hymer ML-T 570 Crossover

Hymer is a German manufacturer best known for its RVs and camper vans. The ML-T 570 Crossover isn’t your regular camper van commonly spotted on European festival campsites. The ML-T 570 is more rugged than that.

It comes with everything you need for your next expedition. Solar panels provide 90 watts of storable energy, and the ML-T 570 is self-sufficient for up to 10 days. There are sprung twin beds and a spacious interior that even features a mini-kitchen, table, and seating area.

Mercedes G-Wagen

The G-Wagen was initially built for military purposes, which means it’s a force to be reckoned with off the beaten path. Obviously, the AMG versions with massive rims and other fancy bits won’t be the best option for venturing off-road.

Opt for a cheaper, more basic model, and you’ll laugh in the face of off-road hazards. In fact, try to get your hands on an ex-military vehicle for maximum reliability. Those are so basic that there’s practically nothing that can go wrong. One couple, Gunther and Christine Holthorf, spent 26 years in their G-Wagen. During that time, they covered 560,000 miles and visited 215 countries.

Ford F-150 Raptor

The Ford F-150 Raptor has been with us for a few generations by now, and it’s proven itself to be one of the sickest factory-built off-road trucks money can buy. It doesn’t matter which generation you choose; they’re all good and capable.

If you want V8 power, the first- and last-generation models are the ones to go for. If you’d be happy with a twin-turbo V6, the second generation has you covered. For those who’d like a Blue Oval truck but think the F-150 Raptor is a bit much, there’s also its smaller sibling, the Ranger Raptor.

Subaru Outback

Unlike some other vehicles on this list, the Subaru Outback can easily double as a regular everyday vehicle when you’re not out exploring the wilderness. As an added bonus, it’s also relatively affordable.

The Outback may not look like much, but it has impressed many a naysayer when venturing off-road. This is more of a lifestyle vehicle and can’t match purpose-built off-road trucks, but the Outback has about seven inches of ground clearance – more than enough for driving on a trail. It’s also fuel-efficient and cheap to maintain.

New Land Rover Defender

We’ve already talked about the classic Landy, but it was replaced a few years ago. Like all Land Rover products, the current model has come under fire for reliability issues. Due to it having more tech than its predecessor, we’d actually choose the old model over the new one.

That being said, the new Defender has proven itself off-road and can cross rivers as deep as three feet. If you want some creature comforts in your British overland vehicle, it’s a better choice than the bare-bones classic model.

Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4-Runner is widely regarded as one of the best 4×4 SUVs ever and one of the best overland vehicles money can buy. The 4Runner has been around for over 40 years, so finding one that suits your budget should be possible.

Getting your hands on a Toyota 4Runner means you have a vehicle that is almost expedition-ready in stock form. As reliable as a Toyota will ever be, the 4Runner has been spotted in Arctic climates, Middle-Eastern deserts, and anywhere in between.

Ford Transit Trail

The Ford Transit Trail is a more rugged version of everyone’s favorite work van. With lots of interior space, it can be outfitted with everything typically found in a camper van, making it a super-comfy travel vehicle.

Consider it an off-road-capable van-life vehicle. It can be specced with 4WD that can lock the center diff for a 50:50 torque split, and the low first gear means it can do some crawling as well, despite not having a low-range gearbox.

Toyota Land Cruiser

Overlanding is practically part of the Toyota Land Cruiser’s name. It’s almost unbeatable off-road and among the most reliable vehicles ever made. It doesn’t matter which generation of this SUV you opt for; they all deliver the goods.

Not only is it good at its job, but it also does it in style. The Land Cruiser has always been a somewhat luxurious SUV. Don’t expect to find a cheap one, though. These SUVs are highly sought-after, so it really is a seller’s market.

Lexus LX470

If you want a Land Cruiser but need even more luxuries and creature comforts, the Lexus LX470 is the SUV you’re looking for. It’s essentially a Land Cruiser in every way that counts – including its trusty underpinnings; Lexus has just added even more tech and fancy gadgets.

Some would argue that added tech is just more things that can break, but the Lexus is known for its reliability, so we don’t think that’s a problem. Imagine spending time in a luxurious cabin with leather seats while traversing mud and rocks all day – adventure and luxury combined.

Land Rover Discovery

The first two generations of the Land Rover Discovery may be too rare and valuable to take on a drive around the world. A brand-new Land Rover Discovery would definitely get the job done, but it’s a bit pricey. That leaves us with the 3rd- and 4th-generation SUVs, which are perfect for overland adventures.

These two generations offer plenty of off-road capabilities. Most of us would get scared long before running into the vehicle’s limits, especially if fitted with the optional active rear differential and a set of proper tires. Reliability issues are a concern, and some mechanic skills are necessary if you want to take one on an adventure.

Iveco Daily 4×4

Iveco vehicles are common on European roads, but the Daily 4×4 can reach places far off the beaten path. This mobile home comes with everything you’d expect to find in a camper van, and thanks to the 4×4 drivetrain, it’s a capable overlander as well.

The Iveco Daily uses proven technology, and the brand is known for its robust vehicles, so we wouldn’t worry about taking the Daily 4×4 on a challenging trail.

Suzuki Jimny

The tiny Suzuki Jimny may not look very impressive, but it’s one of the most capable off-roaders out there. It’s put larger, more expensive SUVs to shame multiple times.

Roam Overlanding on YouTube drove a Jimny all over South Africa and Botswana, proving just how good it could be with just a few aftermarket parts.

Ford Excursion

We find the oversized Ford Excursion on the opposite end of the tiny Jimny. The Ford Excursion is perfect if you need to bring the whole family and the dog. There’s plenty of interior space, so you can definitely carry more luggage than in a regular SUV.

The Excursion is rugged and reliable in standard form, and with some aftermarket upgrades, it can be turned into a tank. As for engines, pick between a V8, V10, or a turbocharged diesel.

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Top 3 Expedition and Explorer Overland Builds

Overlanding is an opportunity to discover things that make life worth living – whether it’s a trip down memory lane or visiting places you’ve never been to. So, why not explore with all your heart?

In this article, let these true-blue adventurers offer you a fresh outdoor perspective aboard their modified Ford overland rigs.

• 1.1 Tips from an Overlander at Heart
• 1.2 Expedition Modifications’ Summary
• 1.3 Social Media Handles & Contact
• 2.1 Tips from an Overlander at Heart
• 2.2 Explorer Modifications’ Summary
• 2.3 Social Media Handles & Contact
• 3.1 Tips from an Overlander at Heart
• 3.2 Explorer Modifications’ Summary
• 3.3 Social Media Handles & Contact
• 4.1 About Author

JACOB TAYLOR ( @KINGDOM_OVERLANDING )

When the going gets tough but you just can’t go without all your important stuff, then Jacob’s one-of-a-kind 2018 Ford Expedition Limited 4×4 has the answer you need.

Specifically, one of his Ford Expedition mods include their very own Kingdom Overland Roof Rack that screams utility all over it. Why wouldn’t it? A roof rack is a valuable modification piece because you can put almost everything on it that won’t easily fit in your vehicle – from luggage, excess camping gear, to bicycles .

Although it was a challenge getting the right overland kitchen setup and drawers because they need to be perfectly suitable for the vehicle, the issue was eventually fixed because Jacob had it custom made to make the most out of the cargo area.

“Camping. For us, the overlanding vehicle, equipment, and build are what allows us to go camping and experience the outdoors as a family.” – Jacob

Tips from an Overlander at Heart

Expedition Modifications’ Summary

Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes

• ICON 2.25″ Stage 2 Suspension System W Billet UCA
• Method 701-HD Matte Black with Bead Grip
• Maxxis Tires 37×12.5 R17
• Powerstop HD Ceramic Break Pads with Drilled and Slotted Rotors

Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions

• Factory Raptor Front Bumper
• Custom Steel Rear Bumper
• Steel Weld on Rock Sliders
• Monster INC Kinetic Recovery Rope
• Factor 55 Soft Shackles
• ARB Tire Patch Kit
• Smittybilt Air Compressor

Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical

• Fully Custom-built Kitchen with Camp Chef Everest 2-Burner Stove with Drawers and Pantry Shelves
• Sliding Gear Drawer (48-inch long)
• KC Hilites Lighting
• Garmin Power Switch w/ Overland Tread Screen

Miscellaneous

• 4th Gen Roof Racks
• Full Length Aluminum, no-drill. 3rd-Gen (to be released shortly)
• 10-gallon Water Tank

Social Media Handles & Contact

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcrL9Nb4HixqcXANSGF6rOg

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kingdom_overlanding/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kingdomoverlanding

Website: https://kingdomoverlanding.com/

Email: [email protected]

RIKARD “BILBO” ADAMSSON ( @MOTORHOME KING )

If you prefer staying longer in a particular place, without worrying about foregoing the comforts of electricity, then Bilbo’s 2001 3-door Ford Explorer Sport 2WD says it all.

This is because one of his Ford Explorer mods are solar panels that easily convert sunlight into a useful source of energy enough to keep his mobile home up and running . It might be new for the conventional adventurers but being one with nature through hiking alone and other activities doesn’t stop where batteries and gadgets end. In fact, it only makes it more personal, homier – it’s true and it’s what Bilbo’s trying to point out.

However, optimizing the storage space and headspace for the bed platform in his vehicle was a different story altogether. Doing such a thing was tricky because he had limited tools and equipment. But since resourcefulness and quick-thinking skills make a powerful team, these helped him figure out what parts are missing and what adjustments must be made.

“I’ll go with tent, simply because overlanding doesn’t have to be as challenging as most people think; consider your car a tent that you can drive around in, and you’re done. Bring something soft to sleep on in the car and something to stay warm; bring some food and water, and you are good to go on your first trip. You don’t need to make one of those super fancy builds to try it out. Keep it simple before you know if it is for you.” – Bilbo

Explorer Modifications’ Summary

• Brake System
• Tires (Check those from Firestone. )
• Scrap Metal
• Roof Rack/Roof Cage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3OBPqizJZg

Website: https://motorhomeking.com/

JEREMY DAVIS ( @BUILD SOMETHING )

When towing loads of items is a normal scenario for you and your rig, you can easily turn to Jeremy’s vintage gem for some enlightenment – 1994 Ford Explorer.

What makes this vehicle amazing is it contains the famous 12-valve Cummins Engine .  Although it first appeared in the 90s on a Ram Pickup Truck, it has deservingly earned its reputation as a heavyweight tower because of its increased torque capacity at lower speeds. Meaning, it helps you easily tow even at a stationary position. It also means more amounts of fuel are saved .

On the other hand, getting it properly set up in Jeremy’s vehicle is a serious brawl because he had to do everything from boxing the frame to putting in the 3/4-ton axles. It was a challenging swap since most of his builds are centered on it. But his hard work paid off because he planned it carefully with the right parts and right mindset.

“Adventure. For me overlanding is about being self-sufficient while travelling to hard-to-reach but beautiful destinations. The most rewarding part is proving to yourself that you built a rig yourself that you can rely on to get you through your personal adventure.” – Jeremy

• 37-inch Tires
• Dana 50 TTB Front End from an F250 (Swapped to coil springs.)
• Dana 70 Rear End from a Ram 2500
• None yet, still to come.
• Interior Bed Liners (For off-roading and easy cleaning.)

YouTube: www.youtube.com/BuildSomethingAuto

Website: https://www.buildautomedia.com/

They say the world is a stage and we all have different roles to play. It’s up to you on how you want to live your life but being stagnant isn’t an option. There’s a whole world to explore and if you’re down for some overlanding, you better do it wholeheartedly but wisely. Share us your overlanding experiences below.

About Author

John Albert

See author's posts

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• Hybrids & EVs
• Motorsports

Go Beyond the Pavement With This Overland SEMA Ford Expedition

While some SEMA builds, like the electric Chevy E-10 and Dodge D200 Lowliner , are high-end one-offs, quite a few are built with more attainable parts. For this year’s show, Ford brought in an armada of F-150s , Super-Duties , and Rangers to show off just how customizable the automaker’s trucks were. And the most common build theme was off-roading. But pickup trucks aren’t the only overlanding sleds. The Ford Expedition SUV can also be tuned for more extreme off-roading. And LGE-CTS Motorsports, who collaborated with Jay Leno on his Bronco , can make one for you.

LGE-CTS Ford Expedition off-road modifications

Originally shown at the 2017 SEMA Show, according to Truck Trend , the Ford Expedition pictured was actually a bit of a running prototype. The SUV was significantly redesigned for 2018, meaning tuners and modifiers didn’t have a real guide to follow. However, considering the Expedition was later featured on the cover of Truckin , it’s clear the family-owned LGE-CTS Motorsports did a phenomenal job.

LGE-CTS first installed an Icon Vehicle Dynamics 2.5” Stage 2 lift kit, the design of which was also being tweaked with this Expedition as the demo SUV. These coilovers also include remote reservoirs, like the Bronco R’s , and 10 levels of adjustability. The Ford Expedition was also equipped with Icon upper suspension arms, and Hellwig sway arms to help deal with the added weight while allowing proper articulation.

The LGE-CTS Ford Expedition also received parts that would eventually spawn the company’s Baja Forged line. The list includes a new front bumper with skid plate and LED light bar, as well as a new rear bumper and roof rack. The fender flares, though, are from the F-150 Raptor. Those flares were necessary because Ford Authority reports the SUV was fitted with 35” BFGoodrich mud tires, mounted to 20” Method wheels.

Rounding out the overlanding features is an ARB rooftop tent and awning. The Ford Expedition’s 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 has been left stock, as has the 10-speed automatic. However, LGE-CTS did install a Ford Performance Borla cat-back exhaust. Bring a Trailer (more on this in a moment) also claims the SUV received a Sparta Evolution brake kit.

Additional mods

Although LGE-CTS did a lot to get the Ford Expedition ready to hit the rocks, the company didn’t modify the interior. For that, the SUV was sent to Rogelio’s Auto Upholstery.

The Ford Expedition retains its stock heated-and-cooled seats and airbags, so it’s just as safe as it is new. However, Rogelio’s team modified the factory leather seats with custom blue-and-gray inserts and yellow/gold stitching. There’s also an ARB combo fridge/freezer in the back, along with some ARB camping chairs.

But it’s not like Ford left the Expedition barren. In addition to the seats, there’s a touchscreen infotainment system with Kicker audio and a lockable center-console box.

How to get your own overlanding Ford Expedition

As of this writing, LGE-CTS’ actual SEMA Ford Expedition is being auctioned off on Bring a Trailer . The current bid is $33,500. Considering the SUV has done less than 10,000 miles, that’s actually a bit of a bargain. Especially with all the off-roading modifications. However, Ford Authority does claim this specific SUV doesn’t have four-wheel drive.

View this post on Instagram LGE-CTS Ford Expedition A post shared by LGE-CTS Motorsports (@lge_ctsmotorsports) on Sep 25, 2019 at 12:58pm PDT

But, if you would like an overlanding Expedition of your own, LGE-CTS can make one for you. All the parts installed have since become regular production parts, which should cut down on cost and lead-time. A 4WD-equipped Expedition starts at $57,610. True, it won’t be an actual SEMA vehicle. But at least the SEMA Ford Expedition led directly to you being able to mount an expedition of your own.

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Matthew Skwarczek

Matthew Skwarczek started blogging in 2015 and focuses his writing on motorcycles and engineering science. A graduate of Northwestern University, where he earned his Master’s in Chemical Engineering, Matthew served as an applications engineer for BASF before joining MotorBiscuit in 2019.

In Matthew’s words, the visceral nature of riding requires you to be in the moment. Combined with his fascination in the analytics surrounding the building and designing of cars and bikes, both modern and classic, you’ll find his voice blends functionality and phenomena. He rides motorcycles and bicycles often, photographing them as well.

Matthew has contributed to Oppositelock and is now an alumnus. He plays Dungeons & Dragons and reads sci-fi and fantasy in his spare time, and appreciates the works of Peter Egan, Sam Smith, Brandon Sanderson, and Alex Goy.

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Welcome to Russia!

We are Sergey and Simon, a Russian and a Frenchman, both  passionate about Moscow, Saint-Petersburg and classic cars. Together, we have created Put-in tours. Our goal is to help you experience Russian culture off the beaten path. Join us onboard our classic Soviet van and let’s get rolling!

In Moscow we offer you a city tour to discover most of the city in an original way as well as a night tour to admire the lights. Our pubcrawl is ideal to explore Moscow’s night-life and have fun. If you are craving to discover Russian culture, come impress your senses during our monastery diner or join our 100% Russian Banya Excursion . The latest will also bring you to Sergiyev Posad and it’s famous monastery!

For the most extreme travellers, our shooting tour will deliver your daily dose of adrenaline whereas our tank excursion will let you ride a real tank and shoot a bazooka.

We also offer help to receive your visa , safe and multilingual airport transfers , as well as organisation services for team-building events or bachelor parties .

All our excursions (but the monastery diner) happen onboard our Soviet military vans and can be covered by our  professionnal photographer or videographer.

In Saint Petersburg

We welcome you in Saint Petersburg onboard our Soviet van to discover the imperial city with our city tour and night tour .

Continue your discovery in style! The adrenaline lovers will like our shooting tour  which brings 3 Russian weapons to the tip of your trigger finger.

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At Put-in tours, we put you in our classic Soviet vans to go explore Moscow, Saint Petersburg and Russian culture off the beaten path. Discover our Moscow city guided tour, visit Moscow by night, join our banya & Sergiyev Posad excursion, visit and dine in one of Moscow's oldest monastery or even Luzhniki stadium, before you party on our famous pubcrawl! Original and atypical tours : Shoot AK47 and a bazooka after riding on a tank with our tank & bazooka excursion ! Extreme tours: Fly a fighter jet in Moscow onboard a L-29 or L-39 aircraft!

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