While most overland vehicles are large four wheel drive trucks or SUVs that doesn’t mean you can’t take a Honda Pilot out overlanding. With some careful modifications and a few essential upgrades you can turn your rig into an overland vehicle that can handle off road terrain and provide all the comforts of home.
Modifying Your Honda Pilot
One of the most important modifications you’ll need to make to your Pilot for overlanding is to upgrade its suspension. An off road capable suspension will provide superior handling and stability over rough terrain and allow for more ground clearance. To do this consider installing aftermarket shocks and struts or possible air bags.
The next modification you’ll need to make is to upgrade your tires. Off road tires are designed to provide better traction in mud, sand and other off road terrain. They also have tougher sidewalls that can withstand the rigors of off road driving. Additionally make sure your tires are properly inflated for the terrain you’ll be driving on. This may mean airing down when appropriate.
A winch is also a great addition to your Honda. A winch is essential for overlanding if you are doing it alone. It can help you pull your vehicle out of difficult situations such as mud, sand and rocks. Look for a high quality winch that has a high amp rating and can pull at least 8,000 pounds. A removable hitch mounted winch is a good option.
Finally you’ll need to add a few other essential items to your SUV for overlanding. A roof rack is a great place to start because it can provide additional storage for gear and supplies. You’ll also want to install a light bar or spotlights so you can see in the dark. And don’t forget to add a snorkel so you can cross water without fear of water getting sucked into the engine.
These are just a few of the modifications and upgrades you’ll need to make to your vehicle for overlanding. With these changes and possibly a few other additions you can turn your Pilot into an all terrain overland vehicle that can take you on all sorts of adventures.
Buying A Used Pilot To Overland
Don’t have your Honda yet? Here are some tips for picking up a used Pilot for under $20,000.
Finding a good used Honda Pilot for under 20K that will be capable of going off road is definitely doable. As one of Honda’s most popular and successful SUVs the Pilot has quite a few different trim levels to choose from so there is a lot of variety. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect used Honda Pilot for your overland needs.
Research the Trim Levels
The Honda Pilot is offered in a range of trim levels from the base LX to the top of the line Elite. Each trim level offers different features so you’ll want to research what each one offers to make sure you’re getting the combination of features and capabilities to fit your needs. Also consider the trim levels that are most likely to be within your budget.
Check the Towing Capacity
If you’re going to be taking your Pilot off road you’ll likely want to bring along some extra gear possibly in a trailer. Make sure the Honda you’re considering has a towing capacity that’s sufficient for your needs. The towing capacity varies depending on the trim level so be sure to check this before you make a purchase.
Look at the Off Road Features
Check to make sure the Pilot you’re considering has features such as an all wheel drive system, a hill start assist system and an available traction management. These features can make a huge difference in how capable your Pilot will be off road.
Check for Damage
Before you buy any used vehicle you want to inspect it for rust and damage. If the vehicle you’re considering has any rust or damage factor the cost of repairs into your budget.
Test Drive
Once you’ve found a used Honda Pilot that you think meets your needs take it for a test drive. This will give you a good idea of how the vehicle handles and performs and it will also give you an opportunity to check for any other issues.
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