Built for Adventure: The Ultimate 80 Series 4x4 Overlander

When our Southland based customer approached us, he had a specific vision in mind for his overlanding 80 series. After doing some thorough research he had full confidence in our ability to bring his vision to reality.


Being an experienced off-road enthusiast with a heavily modified HZJ73, our customer frequently embarked on club runs, camping trips, and weekend off-road adventures. However, he desired a vehicle that was equally capable but with a greater focus on overlanding, as well as additional space for family and friends.

After finding the perfect vehicle for sale in Auckland, he flew up and drove it straight to us in Taranaki, armed with an extensive wish list.

This was a lengthy, complex project, requiring careful project management to ensure seamless integration of all components and that we met our customer's precise requirements.

As we began the strip-down process, we also completed some general maintenance work to ensure the vehicle's reliability, given its intended use and the planned power upgrades.

• GTurbo Grunter Green Wheel Turbo
• HPD Series 2 Front Mount Intercooler
• Modified King Brown 3" Exhaust
• Injector Pump full overhaul with Trundles Comp Cap and fuel pin
• Trundles Dyno Tune

In general, we refer to this as a Stage 2 package, which resulted in a significant increase in performance for this specific vehicle. The power output increased from 93hp to 220hp, and the torque increased from 250nm to 550nm.

• 4 Port Diff Breather Kit
• PWR Trans Cooler
• Eaton E-Lockers Front and Rear
• New wheel bearings and diff bearings
• Nitro Ring and Pinion gears fitted
• Part-time 4WD Conversion
• AVM Freewheeling Hubs
• Speedo Calibration
• ARB Linx Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Method 702 Bead Grip Rims
• Mickey Thompson 315/70/17 Baja Boss MT
• In-House Wheel Alignment Completed
• Steering Box/Chassis Repair Kit Fitted

We find that almost every 80 Series that comes into the workshop has started cracking in the chassis where the steering box mounts so always a good thing to check on these vehicles. Our repair plate kit is a top seller!

The Dobinsons MRA adjustable shocks are the ideal choice for this build as they offer the ability to adjust both slow and high-speed compression and rebound. This feature allows for optimal performance and adaptability in various driving conditions.

• ARB LX100 LINX Interface
• Redarc G52-BET Monitoring Gauge for Boost, EGTs and Trans Temp
• Uniden UHF9060 and AT880 Aerial
• Supafit Seat Covers
• Mongoose Reverse Camera and Replacement Mirror 

The ARB LINX controller allows command over multiple vehicle accessory systems without multiple switches and screens which not only simplifies the interior installation but also gives a clean and organized look to the vehicle's interior. This is currently linked to the lighting and TPMS systems and is fully expandable for any future add-ons.

• ARB Rear Drawer Unit with Side Wing Kit
• ARB Slide Kitchen with 3 Burner Hob, 7L Sink and Stainless Bench
• Clearview Eazy Slide/Drop Fridge mount.
• Dometic CFX3-55IM Single Zone Fridge with Ice-maker
• Maxi Trac Strip Lighting in White/Amber for Cooking and Interior Lighting
• Enerdrive Dual Battery Setup with Andersons plug for Solar Charging
• Redarc DCDC 25 Amp Charger
• Joolca Hot Water System on custom fabricated slide mount for showering
• In-house designed and fabricated custom stainless water tank with auto-fill hose fitting, gravity drain tap and pressurized outlet for hosing down.

• Stedi Type X Pro Spotlights
• Narva H4 200% Replacement Headlight bulbs
• Dobinsons 12000lb Winch fitted to customers Alloy bullbar
• ARB platform/awning from customers previous vehicle modified in-house to suit.
• Custom receiver hitch style towbar with Boxx 6" Ball Mount

After completing the necessary certifications, we sent the vehicle for a full professional detail, ensuring it was not only off-road ready but also showroom-worthy.

This project was truly enjoyable for us, and we couldn't be more thrilled with the final outcome. It was incredibly rewarding to receive positive feedback from the customer almost immediately.

"REALLY happy with the build. You’re doing amazing things for the community. Keep up the good work."

We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the overlanding community and will continue to strive for excellence in our work.