One of the first quality rechargeable flashlights was the Mag Charger from Mag-Instruments. I purchased my Mag Charger in 1980 and it has been in use since. However, the MagCharger uses outdated halogen technology while the best new flashlights use LEDs. TerraLUX has introduced a line of LED upgrades for flashlights with the MiniStar300MR-EX module as direct…
Electrical, Expedition Gear, Gear Reviews
Viair Ultra Duty Onboard Air Installed
by tomas •
I have been running a CO2 system in My Toyota FJ Cruiser for the last 3 years. After each trip the CO2 tank needs to be refilled which costs over $18.00 at the local welding supply store which has started to add up. I’m also am planning on adding an ARB air locker to the…
Electrical, Gear Reviews
EVERBLADES Heated Wipers – Installation
by tomas •
Dealing with ice and snow on the windscreen has always been a problem. Using winter blades keeps ice from freezing in the blade holder but ice and snow will still build up on the blade. A few members on the site http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/ recommended trying EVERBLADES heated wipers. After checking out the EVERBLADES website I decided…
Gear Reviews
Pacsafe metrosafe 100 Shoulder Bag
by tomas •
Years ago I stopped carrying a wallet in my back pocket, opting instead to carry a shoulder bag. With my old bag wearing out it was time to look for a new bag that would be good for traveling. We are planning France this year and I was interested in a more secure travel bag. The metrosafe…
Gear Reviews
New Rotors and Pads for my Toyota FJ Cruiser
by tomas •
When my Toyota FJ Cruiser was at the dealer for some service a few weeks ago they informed me that my front brakes pads were getting close to worn out. Instead of having them service the brakes I took this opportunity to add a simply brake upgrade to the FJ. The upgrade consists of better…
Trip Reports
Mexico Janurary 2010 – Part 2
by tomas •
Queuing the Toyota’s up for our border crossing into Mexico was a cool site. Three FJ Cruisers and one Tacoma, three rooftop tents and 2 M416 trailers made it look like we were heading out for a long trip. We all breezed through the crossing which just a quick check by the Mexico border authority of…
Expedition Gear, Gear Reviews
Great lids for adventure – Tilley Hats
by tomas •
I have been a hat wearer for sometime with Baseball caps being the norm. About two years ago I decided I better start shading my face and neck better and I chose a Tilley Hat. Tilley hats are hand crafted in Canada with quality materials. The first hat I purchased from Tilley was the TH4…
Miscellaneous
The Reality of FJ Cruiser Modification Costs – Updated 10/17
by tomas •
I am publishing the costs of modifying our Toyota FJ Cruiser so others can have a realistic expectation as to the cost involved in getting the FJ trail ready and more. I have modified our FJ Cruiser as an advanced adventure travel vehicle so the cost have been somewhat higher. Shipping charges and labor are…