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If a man’s best friend is his dog, his next best friend might be an off-road vehicle. Whether it’s a truck, Jeep or something else, you put time and effort into protecting and maintaining your prized machine. Animals, weather, thieves and other factors risk its safety. Car thefts occur every 36 seconds on average in the United States, so keep these things in mind when you store your off-road vehicle. 1.     Animals You may not see your vehicle every day to check on it if you leave it in a gar

ARB Brushless Twin Vs. ARB Original Twin – Worth $1000? After decades of success in the onboard compressor market, ARB finally launched something new… the ARB Brushless compressor. But is... The post Field Tested: ARB Brushless Twin Compressor – Review appeared first on Trail4R.com - 5th Gen 4Runner Mods. View the full article

I’ve been in your shoes.  I get it.  Prior to joining Overland Expo as their National Sales Director, I held the same position with American Expedition Vehicles.  In fact, most of my career has been with a manufacturer in either racing and performance or offroad and overlanding.  I’ve worked countless shows and events, always asking the same question:  Are we getting the results we’d hoped for?  Are we seeing any tangible ROI?  What I came to learn was that the first question we need to ask ours

When you’re deciding between synthetic winch rope vs steel, it’s a classic matchup. You are comparing modern material science against old-school brute strength. Synthetic ropes are light, flexible, and safer if they snap. Steel cables are workhorses, incredibly tough against abrasion and heat. The right choice depends on where you’ll be wheeling and your safety priorities. What you’re recovering also plays a significant role. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide. Understandin

Low Profile, Tailored-Fit, Rapidly Removable Cargo Platform The new 4Runner brings plenty of new features, but one thing Toyota didn’t fix is the uneven cargo area when the rear seats... The post BamBeds Leveling Platform For 6th Gen 4Runner – Review appeared first on Trail4R.com - 5th Gen 4Runner Mods. View the full article

Since its inception, the robust education and training available for attendees to Overland Expo has been at the heart of the event. That tradition continues at Overland Expo West 2026, just a few weeks away. Join us in Flagstaff, Arizona, from May 15 – 17, where you can learn from a vast group of industry experts and community members on just about every overlanding subject under the sun. We have twelve different areas set up for overlanding education – here’s what we have planned and where to f

That “MAINT REQD” light on your 4Runner’s dash is a common sight. Before you turn it off, it’s worth knowing what it means. It’s less of a warning and more of a simple, automated reminder for routine service. Think of it as a helpful nudge from your truck. It’s designed to keep you on top of your service schedule, like oil changes. Understanding Your 4Runner’s Maintenance Light It’s easy to panic when a dash light comes on, but this one is different. This is not the dreaded “Check Engine”

Many Ford truck owners want both a secure bed cover and the ability to run a functional bed rack for hauling gear, rooftop tents, bikes, recovery tools, and overlanding equipment. The challenge is that not all bed covers and bed racks work together, and choosing the wrong combination leads to interference, leaks, and wasted money. This guide highlights the best bed covers, bed racks, and compatible systems for real-world use throughout St. Louis.

The Pacific Northwest offers some of the most stunning backcountry terrain in the country. To explore it properly, you need the right gear, vehicles, and knowledge. When Overland Expo PNW 2026 takes over the Deschutes County Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon, from June 26-28, you will have the chance to connect directly with the brands that make off-grid travel possible. This year, we bring an incredible lineup of sponsors and exhibitors to the high desert. Walking the vendor village is

Truck tailgate accessories add functionality, security, and convenience to your rig. They range from simple steps to complete storage systems and work surfaces. These upgrades transform a basic gate into a multi-tool for any situation. Your Tailgate: A Hub Of Untapped Potential Think of your tailgate as a blank canvas waiting for customization. The right accessories can turn a standard pickup into a specialized machine. We’re here to show you the upgrades that make a real difference. Of co

Ford trucks have become some of the most popular platforms for overlanding in Missouri. Whether it's weekend trips through Mark Twain National Forest or long-distance travel across the Midwest, the F-150, F-250, and F-350 offer excellent payload, comfort, and off-road capability. The right upgrades make these trucks even more capable for self-supported travel.  This guide outlines the e

Even though I have been on tour for the past few months for my day job, there are certain events I am taking time off for. This is one of them. The annual Bald Mountain Jeep Trail cleanup project with the Virginia Four-Wheel-Drive Association has been one of my favorite events of the year. Going […]View the full article

Waterproofing electrical connections involves creating a moisture-proof seal. You'll need items like adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing, dielectric grease, and sealed connectors. This process prevents corrosion and short circuits, which is vital for your rig's survival. Getting this right is crucial for navigating deep water and thick mud. It's one of the most important steps to prevent a trail-ending failure. Why Waterproofing Off-Road Wiring Is So Critical When you're far from civilization,

Ford truck owners across St. Louis love modifying their F-150, F-250, and F-350 models. But not every upgrade pays off. Some mods cause ride issues, interfere with daily use, or don’t work well with Missouri weather and terrain. This guide highlights the most common Ford truck upgrades owners regret — and better alternatives that deliver reliable performance. See our full overview

Since its inception in 2009, Overland Expo has grown exponentially, expanded to five events across the United States, each featuring hundreds of vendors, over 100 presenters, trainers, and VIPs, and nearly 500 session hours of education. With so much to do during the event, it can be both exhilarating and a bit overwhelming for the first-time attendee to an Overland Expo. Here’s a brief introduction to what we have going on, along with some tips to get you going, whether you’re an Overland E

A 4Runner long travel suspension is an aggressive upgrade that increases wheel travel. This is the total up-and-down distance your wheel can move. The goal is to keep your tires on the ground, no matter how wild the terrain gets. This translates to more traction, better stability, and a new level of control on tough trails. It’s a fundamental change to how your 4Runner performs off-road. What Long Travel Suspension Actually Does A long travel kit rewires how your 4Runner handles rough terrain

< All Ram Upgrades Let’s Get Honest: Regret Happens We get it — building a RAM is half thrill, half impulse buys. You see that shiny mod on a buddy’s truck or a viral reel and think, “Yup, I need that too!” Then reality hits: the new part rattles, ruins your ride, or turns your daily driver into a parking ga

Overland Expo West 2026 is just around the corner, bringing with it an exciting opportunity to score exclusive show-only deals. Taking place May 15–17 in Flagstaff at Fort Tuthill County Park, the event will draw thousands of overlanders ready to explore the latest vehicles, gear, and camping innovations. Many exhibitors will be offering special pricing, bundled packages, and limited-time promotions available only during the event. It’s the perfect chance to upgrade your setup, disco

Choosing the right mud-terrain (M/T) tires is a critical upgrade for any off-road enthusiast. The right traction can mean the difference between powering through an obstacle or getting stuck. With so many brands and tread patterns, finding the best mud tires for your truck can feel overwhelming. This guide simplifies that process. We’ve compiled a list of resources to help you find top-rated options. This article focuses on what matters for real-world performance. You will learn how to match t

< All Ram Upgrades Lifting Changes Everything (Especially When You Tow) A lift kit and big tires make your RAM look tough and clear bigger trails — but they also change how your truck handles heavy trailers, tall campers, or car haulers. Many RAM owners find out the hard way: that lifted stance can mean sway, squat, and

Storyteller Overland has partnered with The Jessi Combs Foundation to launch the Trailblazer Tour Van to honor the legacy of Jessi Combs. This fiery red Storyteller Beast Mode van was built as a mobile platform for outreach, education, and inspiration. This project is meant to further Jessi Combs’ legacy and support the next generation of women entering the skilled trades. The van will be driven by Jessi Combs Foundation scholarship recipients as they travel nationwide, visiting communit

Building a proper Toyota 4Runner overland rig is a journey, not a sprint. It all starts from the ground up, with the parts that connect you to the trail. Get this wrong, and every other mod you bolt on will be compromised. Why Your Foundation Matters Turning your stock 4Runner into an overland explorer is about more than just adding cool gear. It’s a systematic process. The factory suspension is great for paved roads, but it will quickly reach its limits under the weight of equipment. Your

My buddy Walt was approached to take point on a return to Tank Hollow Road in George Washington and Jefferson National Forest outside Natural Bridge Station in Virginia. This was a project site I had visited back in late 2022 with a very hardworking team of volunteers. On that project we not only picked up […]View the full article

Storyteller Overland has partnered with The Jessi Combs Foundation to launch the Trailblazer Tour Van to honor the legacy of Jessi Combs. This fiery red Storyteller Beast Mode van was built as a mobile platform for outreach, education, and inspiration. This project is meant to further Jessi Combs’ legacy and support the next generation of women entering the skilled trades. The van will be driven by Jessi Combs Foundation scholarship recipients as they travel nationwide, visiting communit

When you open a new Warn winch box, that folded diagram is your most important tool. The Warn winch wiring schematic is the official map from the manufacturer. It shows you exactly how everything connects: the motor, contactor, and power cables. Think of it as your roadmap for a safe and functional installation. Following it ensures every component communicates correctly. This prevents electrical shorts and makes sure your winch works when you need it. Deciphering Your Winch Wiring Diagram Be

Every year around Earth Day the Virginia Four-Wheel-Drive Association hosts a project day on the Bald Mountain Jeep Trail. I first attended this project back in 2017 with John of New Horizons Overland. We did our typical “work hard; play hard” thing by incorporating a multi-day trip called “The Shadow of the Parkway” I had […]View the full article

Summer weather is just around the corner. This month, we have a curated list of companies and products aimed at equipping your summer overlanding adventures. From making it easier to get your bike out on the trail to upping your solar power to take advantage of the summer sun, to the ultimate in camping comfort, here are eight pieces of gear for your upcoming adventures. 1UP USA — RakAttach XL The RakAttach XL is built for serious hauling, delive

Your truck bed is more than just an open space for hauling. It’s a canvas for ultimate organization, especially for off-roading and overlanding. The right setup keeps your gear secure, accessible, and protected from the elements. This guide explores practical and innovative truck bed storage ideas, moving beyond basic toolboxes. We will dive into a curated selection of websites where you can find modular systems and clever products. Get ready to rethink your truck bed and prepare it for any tra

There’s a particular musical number from the hit Broadway show Hamilton that always makes me chuckle. It’s when Aaron Burr laments he wishes he could, “be in the room where it happens.” In that moment he was on the outside looking in as Alexander Hamilton secured his position as Treasurer and negotiated for the nation’s […]View the full article

The 2026 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X empowers owners to work hard and play harder by delivering more of what buyers want and need from their truck, starting with its responsive, direct-injected 3.8-liter V6 engine. Rated for 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, the engine features Idle Stop/Start and is paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Active Brake Limited Slip is standard on all grades, with PRO-4X upgrading to an electronic locking differential to help provide added traction on mixed