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Dave Harriton on What it Takes to Build a Factory Overlander

factory overlander

In this episode of the Overland Journal Podcast, hosts Matt Scott and Scott Brady are joined by Dave Harriton from American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) to delve into the complexities of building a factory overlander. The discussion examines the key components of overland vehicle construction, including transfer case chain integrity, the distinction between aftermarket and OEM components, and the importance of maintaining proper cooling and suspension systems. They also shed light on the unique challenges of engineering both factory and aftermarket overlanding vehicles, including corrosion resistance and noise vibration harshness (NVH). The conversation highlights specific vehicles, such as the Ineos Grenadier, the GMC AEV HD, and the Jeep Wrangler 4xe. The episode is packed with insights on choosing the right modifications and understanding the trade-offs between convenience and performance. Additionally, a special thanks is extended to Warner, known for its service and support of overland travelers.

Overland Journal Podcast Episode 249

The Overland Journal Podcast is brought to you this week by Warner Ineos, Tredder, and Hankook Tire.

Guest Bio

Dave Harriton

Dave Harriton’s career began with four AAA tows and UM’s business plan competition. Now he owns the largest and most respected Jeep accessory company in the industry. @aevdave

dave harriton factory overlander

Host Bios

Scott Brady

Scott is the executive publisher and co-founder of Expedition Portal and Overland Journal and is often credited with popularizing overlanding in North America. His travels by 4WD and adventure motorcycle span all seven continents and include three circumnavigations of the globe. His polar expeditions include two vehicle crossings of Antarctica and the first long-axis crossing of Greenland. @scott.a.brady

Matt Scott

Matthew is a leading expert in automotive adventure. He has extensively explored the world’s most remote places by 4WD and is considered an industry authority on overland travel. He is the only American to ever become an editor of a major Australian 4WD publication and has over 15 years of competitive auto racing experience. @mattexplore

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Ashley Giordano completed a 48,800-kilometer overland journey from Canada to Argentina with her husband, Richard, in their well-loved but antiquated Toyota pickup. On the zig-zag route south, she hiked craggy peaks in the Andes, discovered diverse cultures in 15 different countries, and filled her tummy with spicy ceviche, Baja fish tacos, and Argentinian Malbec. As Senior Editor at Overland Journal, you can usually find Ashley buried in a pile of travel books, poring over maps, or writing about the unsung women of overlanding history. @desktoglory_ash