This morning, I found myself Googling around in search of adventure and came across a "Manmping 2010" trip report. Couldn't. Stop. Reading. (Turned down the awesome on my speakers, though, as I'm supposed to be working.) Next thing I knew, I was reading about a tunnel and flash flood on Highway 70. That's it. I'm registering.
Name's Brian. I drive this little turd.
Shady f*ckers stole the roof rack a while ago, but it's otherwise exactly the same as last year when that picture was taken. It's an 89 Raider, aka: Pajero. 2.6L and 100bhp of carburetted fury. Pretty much stock, 200k on the odo, smokes a bit when cold, runs-on when I shut it off hot, barely does 45mph up hills on the highway (floored in 3rd or 4th), and makes me feel like I can do anything.
Haven't had much time to get out with it in the nearly two years since I bought it - "economic recovery," two jobs, and a 1-year old daughter being what they are - but have done Table Mesa east of I-17 and Crown King. It's mostly stock, save a nice set of "Aussie crawler gears" which really make a difference; I think that's something like a 2.85:1 4L and a 45% reduction or something, but I'm not entirely sure. Just know I like the way they work on the trail.
Not really into the overly technical, King of the Hammers stuff, but I respect it. I'm more a where does this trail go kinda guy. I want to get out there more and see what my truck can really do - and still get me to work in the morning. I'll probably pick up a little air compressor and some recovery gear this summer, but otherwise, my long term mod plan includes a RHD Delica Star Wagon in 2015, so I'm leaving Rocinante the Fun Cooker as-is for the time being.
My efforts with Gearbox Magazine keep me spread pretty thin, forums-wise, but I always subscribe to threads, so I can usually get back to conversations pretty quick. I live & die by my inbox. Looking forward to further inspiration from this group.