MAN TGM expedition build. My second build.

mack212

New member
After 60,000 klms travel in my Isuzu FTS700, I managed to get hold of a 2011 MAN TGM 4x4 truck with low klms fitted with a beaver tail body.
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Sold my FTS700 at the start of the COVID epidemic and started a new build.
Completed in 6 months.

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Used lessons learnt from the first build in second build. Without the rooftop air conditioner truck is 300mm lower, a bonus for treed tracks.

I wanted to build a vehicle that didn’t use gas for cooking (external bbq excepted), heating water etc, so opted for 100% electric.
48v system, 9.6kw lithium battery, 4000w inverter, 2.4kw solar system.

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We have travelled around 9000 klms since completion September 2020, most recently to central Australia.

MAN vs Isuzu

The MAN drives like a car. Suspended cab, parabolic springs and it actually has lots of torque, almost double the Isuzu and from 1200 rpm.
I like the 12 speed ATM gearbox, but it has taken a little to master.

The MAN is full time 4wd with hi/Lo range and front,centre,rear diff locks. The Isuzu was part time 4WD with a no spin ( Detroit locker) rear diff and centre lock transfer case. Open front diff.

The MAN is a heavier truck so it has ended up around 2 ton heavier than the Isuzu.

the Isuzu is a cheaper truck to Own. Cheaper parts and service costs and a being older a simpler truck without all the electronic‘s

We have travelled around 10000 klms since completion, the most recent to central Australia
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Upgrades.

CTIS. So many times that changing tyre pressure would be an advantage, but stopping for 20 minutes to deflate, and 40 minutes to re-inflate 6 tyres is a PIA.

Single tyres. We want to do a Simpson desert crossing next year so want a second set of tyres.
Can‘t decide between 385/65r22.5 super singles or 365/80r20 XZL type tyres.

Will Keep my original tyres for a lot of other trips where there is no sand involved.
 

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Joe917

Explorer
Looks like a great rig. I have met many multiple self builders, generally they say it takes 3 builds to get it right! I look forward to more pics and details.
 

mack212

New member
Looks like a great rig. I have met many multiple self builders, generally they say it takes 3 builds to get it right! I look forward to more pics and details.
Thanks Joe,

I‘m not sure about the third build, but who knows, said I’d never build a second after my first. ?
I see your running a Benz 917.

what tyres are you running?

Mack
 

Joe917

Explorer
Thanks Joe,

I‘m not sure about the third build, but who knows, said I’d never build a second after my first. ?
I see your running a Benz 917.

what tyres are you running?

Mack
315 80 22.5
They are a great highway tire and we have survived mud and sand, however I would go to a 365 minimum 22.5. 20" are to hard to source worldwide.
 

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