When it comes to overlanding there is a stigma attached that often includes purchasing a brand new $40-60k truck or suv and then putting $20-30k more into suspension, wheels/tires, lighting, rooftop tents and so on. This is simply not required and is more of a social media ploy for folks to build a following. For the guys and gals that don't want to take out a second mortgage to have fun overlanding and camping with friends and family, this project is for you.
For many folks that don't want to be cock blocked my a paywall to enjoy overlanding and the extremely friendly and helpful culture, there is a solution. Take the vehicle you own currently and prepare it in such a way that you can have fun without needing a dedicated vehicle. With a growing family, pets and the need for a 3rd row the Yukon XL was an excellent option. We found this 2004 Yukon XL Denali with 220,000 miles on the clock in what we would describe as "fair" condition and purchased it for $5500. It runs, it drives and it has numerous trouble codes, a check engine light, multiple fluid leaks, service suspension control warnings, a fuel tank that requires 50 attempts to fill at 1/2 gallon at a time and air-conditioning that doesn't work. So we loaded it up on a uhaul trailer and brought it home. If it fits it ships has never been more accurate.
So we've covered some of the glaring poor maintenance items we saw, lets talk about the pros of this vehicle. What exactly did we get for $5500? We got an LQ4 engine which is a 6.0L Iron Block pushrod V8, it produces 325hp and 365lb-ft of torque. Plenty of power to move this nearly 6000lbs battlewagon down the road. The Denali trades out the conventional 4WD system for AWD. This truck does also sport the 4L80E transmission which is known for being robust. Before we get into reviewing some of the maintenance issues that are typical of older vehicles we'll talk pros/cons and why we settled on this vehicle to build from. For all maintenance and upgrades we'll keep a running log of costs so we can help you judge if something like this is doable for you. PROS
Reliable engine/transmission (V8 Power)
Body on frame construction makes it very tough
AWD system allows great traction on all surfaces in all conditions
Third row seating
Tons of storage space and plenty of towing/payload capacity
CONS
Length, over 18.5 feet long
Weight, 5735lbs empty
AWD system will not be as capable offroad as traditional 4WD
Vehicle is nearly 20years old so it will need some maintenance
This vehicle brings a lot of good tools and capabilities to the table but also presents some unique challenges in its large size, heavy curb weight and age. Our plans to get this rig ready for a summer adventure look like this.
Maintenance
All fluids and all filters swapped to Schaeffers with AC Delco filters
New shocks/struts/springs (All 4 shocks are blown and the rear coils are sagging)
Install bump stops (There are only pieces of the OEM ones clinging on for dear life)
Replace battery and explore why the INFO fuse is missing
Address the leaking oil pan, transmission pan, engine oil cooler and transmission cooler (If it's leaking, it's got fluid in it)
Replace Evap canister to fix refueling issue and emissions codes
A/C service, we want AC
Upgrades (Planned)
Bilstein Shocks (Should greatly improve ride quality)
New OEM rear coils
EFI Live Engine/Transmission Tune (Small power/economy bump)
Cold Air Intake
Truck Headers (will eliminate the exhaust leak at the manifold that we hear ticking and improve exhaust flow)
Touchscreen radio with carplay/android auto for maps
Towing Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier to improve interior comfort
All Terrain tires to improve safety/capability on and off road