DIY Earthroamer: Museroamer Expedition Vehicle

Looking to hit the road and explore the great outdoors? Overlanding has become an increasingly popular way to travel and see the world. However, outfitting your vehicle for extended off-road adventures can be an expensive undertaking. That’s where DIY comes in. Andrew and Ashley share their journey of building their own expedition vehicle, the Muse Roamer, for a fraction of the cost of a commercially available Earth Roamer. From vehicle selection to solar panels and storage solutions, they provide practical tips and ideas for anyone looking to build their own affordable overland rig.

How to Build Your Own Overlanding Vehicle on a Budget

Building your own overlanding vehicle on a budget can seem daunting, but with the right mindset and resources, it’s doable. The key is to identify your priorities and to make smart decisions about where to cut costs. For example, buying a used truck and building a structure on top of it can save you a lot of money compared to buying a custom-built, off-the-lot vehicle.

In terms of building materials, prioritize durability and insulation. You want your vehicle to be able to handle rough terrain and varying weather conditions. It’s also important to think creatively and repurpose materials whenever possible. For example, using bamboo flooring for your shower mat or using raw slabs for your dining table and countertop.

When it comes to outfitting your vehicle, think about what you value most in terms of comfort and convenience. Do you want a big shower or a spacious fridge? Is having a propane furnace a must-have or a nice-to-have? Make a list of necessities and prioritize accordingly.

Overall, building your own overlanding vehicle on a budget requires some hard work and sacrifice, but the end result is worth it. You’ll have a vehicle customized to your needs and preferences, and you’ll be able to explore the great outdoors with the freedom and flexibility that comes with off-road travel.

DIY Truck Conversion Tips for Overlanding Beginners

If you’re an overlanding beginner and considering a DIY truck conversion, we’ve got some tips for you. First, set a budget for yourself and stick to it. Building a custom rig can quickly get expensive, so make a plan that you can realistically afford. Second, research and plan out your build thoroughly. Make a list of everything you need and prioritize items based on your needs and must-haves.

One important aspect of any overlanding vehicle is the suspension and tires. Make sure to invest in a good suspension system and quality off-road tires to ensure a comfortable ride and reliable performance on any terrain. Also, consider adding a winch, auxiliary lights, and exterior storage for extra gear and supplies.

For the interior of your vehicle, consider adding custom cabinets and drawers for storage. Use space-saving and multi-functional furniture and appliances, like fold-out tables and convertible beds, to maximize living space. Also, invest in an efficient electrical system and solar panel setup to power your appliances and devices.

Overall, building your own DIY truck conversion is a rewarding and exciting experience. With proper planning and attention to detail, you can create a comfortable and functional mobile home that will allow you to explore the world off the beaten path. Remember to take your time, research thoroughly, and enjoy the journey.

The Muse Roamer: An Affordable Expedition Vehicle

The Muse Roamer is a custom-built expedition vehicle that is perfect for adventurers looking for an affordable option. It is a 2004 Ford F-550, which had its bed removed and replaced with a custom-built structure that is designed to provide all the comforts of home. The vehicle has been equipped with a 6.0-liter engine that has been improved to extend its lifespan. It runs on a pair of 16-gallon diesel tanks which provide it with a fuel range of about 160 miles.

The muse roamer has been fitted where necessary with additional features to make it more capable on the road. It has 41-inch Continental MPT-81 tires, which give it excellent traction and make it easier to drive on various terrains. The vehicle also has a four-inch lift and suspension upgrade, which provides it with better ground clearance. A Front Buckstop bumper with all Baja Designs lights and 16.5 thousand-pound winch with a synthetic cable adds to its versatility.

Inside the vehicle, there are numerous amenities that ensure that the passengers have all the comfort they need. There are custom-made cabinets with drawers for storage, a separate shower with a fan, and a 175-watt solar panel to provide power. There are also custom made black shades on the windows that can be clipped together to ensure the privacy of the passengers while the screens are down. The seats have been removed to free up space for storage, and the electrical system has been upgraded with four lion energy lithium-ion batteries that have a capacity of 150 ampere-hours each.

The Pros and Cons of Building Your Own Overlanding Vehicle

Building your own overlanding vehicle can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Let’s take a look at both the pros and cons of building your own rig.

Pros:

– Cost: Building your own overlanding vehicle is often a more affordable option compared to buying a pre-built rig. You have control over your budget and can choose which features are most important to you.
– Customization: Building your own rig allows for a high level of customization. You can select which specific components and materials to use to fit your exact needs and preferences.
– Learning experience: Building your own overlanding vehicle is a great learning experience. You become familiar with the mechanics and inner workings of your vehicle, which will come in handy during future repairs and maintenance.
– Sense of accomplishment: Completing a DIY overland build can give you a great sense of pride and accomplishment. You can take pride in knowing that you built it yourself and that it’s tailored perfectly to your needs.

Cons:

– Time investment: Building your own rig can be a time-consuming process. It may take months or even years to complete, depending on your skill level, budget, and availability.
– Skill level: Not everyone has the necessary skills to build their own overland vehicle. If you lack experience or expertise in areas such as mechanics or electrical work, it may be challenging or even unsafe to tackle this project yourself.
– Quality control: When building your own rig, you may not have the same level of quality control as a professional build. You risk making mistakes or overlooking important details that could impact the safety and functionality of your vehicle.
– Resale value: A handmade overland vehicle may not hold its value as well as a professionally built vehicle. If you plan to sell your rig in the future, it may be more challenging to find a buyer willing to pay a premium price.

In conclusion, building your own overland vehicle has both advantages and disadvantages. It can be a cost-effective, satisfying, and customizable option, but it requires time, skill, and attention to detail. Ultimately, you have to decide if building your own rig aligns with your interests, goals, and abilities.

Sustainable Living While Overlanding: Solar Panels and More

Living sustainably while overlanding is an important consideration for those who wish to minimize their carbon footprint and reduce their impact on the environment. Solar panels are one of the most effective ways of achieving this goal and have become popular among overlanders. The Muse Roamer, for example, comes equipped with three 175-watt solar panels which generate 525 watts of potential solar.

In addition to solar panels, the Muse Roamer features several other eco-friendly features. For example, there is a propane tank and an external grill set up in the back, which can be used to prepare meals without relying on traditional fuel sources. Furthermore, the vehicle boasts two diesel tanks, both of which hold 16 gallons of fuel and allow the vehicle to achieve 10 miles to the gallon.

When it comes to the interior of the vehicle, sustainability is also a top priority. Cabinets and drawers are strategically placed to maximize storage capacity, and there is a large fridge with a freezer compartment, which can be powered by the solar panels. The Muse Roamer is also powered by four Lion Energy lithium-ion batteries, which have a high ampere-hour rating and ensure long-lasting power.

Overlanders who are passionate about sustainable living can learn a lot from the Muse Roamer. By incorporating solar panels, propane tanks, and lithium-ion batteries, this vehicle is able to reduce its reliance on traditional fuel sources and minimize its environmental impact.

Q&A

Q: What inspired Andrew and Ashley to build the Muse Roamer?

A: Andrew lived in a progression of different vehicles before and wanted to build the ultimate vehicle with the least amount of compromise. An Earth Roamer seemed like the ultimate vehicle but it was too expensive, so they decided to build their own.

Q: What was Andrew and Ashley’s budget for building the Muse Roamer?

A: Their initial budget was $30,000, but they ended up spending around $62,000, which is still just 10% of the cost of an Earth Roamer.

Q: What type of truck did Andrew and Ashley use as the base for the Muse Roamer?

A: They used a 2004 Ford F-550 four-wheel drive truck with a tool bed on the back.

Q: What modifications did Andrew and Ashley make to the truck?

A: They swapped out the original tires with 41-inch Continental MPT-81s, converted the truck from dually to single rear wheel, added a four-inch lift and suspension upgrade, and installed a front Buckstop bumper with all Baja designed lights. They also had custom boxes made at a shop called Vorshear in Utah.

Q: What features does the Muse Roamer have inside?

A: The Muse Roamer has cabinets and drawers for storage, a shower, a wet bath for snowboarding equipment storage, a refrigerator with a freezer compartment, a propane furnace, custom shades and screens for the windows, a dining table with a sneaky little drawer, an electrical bay with four lion energy lithium ion batteries, and a queen size bed.

Q: What makes the Muse Roamer unique and why do Andrew and Ashley love it?

A: The Muse Roamer is unique because it was built by Andrew and Ashley themselves, customized to their exact needs and preferences. They love it because it allows them to travel and live on the road comfortably and affordably.

Affordable overlanding is possible with some DIY truck conversion tips and tricks. From building a custom rig on a budget to creating a cozy home on wheels, the muse roamer is a testament to the creativity and dedication of its owners, Andrew and Ashley. They may have faced challenges along the way, but the end result is nothing short of amazing.