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Overland Vehicle Storage Solutions

After over a decade of overlanding, I’ve realized that overland storage is one the most overlooked aspects of overlanding. Because overlanders usually use their vehicles as a basecamp while exploring a new place, it’s easy to forget that they also need to store their stuff when not on the trail. There are loads of options for storage in overland vehicles today, from packing crates and bins to custom-fit drawers and shelves. Here are some overlanding storage ideas I’ve used or friends have used over the years that work really well… The 5400 Series by Engel I own two 54 quart Engle coolers — one goes in my truck and another stays put at home because it fits so perfectly in my garage. Because overlanding requires a lot of food and supplies, it makes sense to maximize the space you have available. This is why I like Engle’s coolers — they fit perfectly over wheel wells and up front behind the seat (96 quarts total) and many different sizes and colors are available (the 54-quart cooler ret...

What are stronger steel or aluminum wheels?

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Steel wheels are steel alloy and aluminum wheels are aluminum alloy. Generally, steel is stronger than aluminum, but steel also weighs more than aluminum. Generally, steel is heavier than aluminum, so steel needs larger bearings to support the weight of the wheel. The thicker steel may not fit properly in your hub, whereas an aluminum wheel can be bent and reformed somewhat to fit into a hub that normally has a steel wheel. If you're looking for something that will stand up well against curb rash and dents, look no further than steel. Steel wheels offer great resistance to damage from impacts with curbs and other cars as well as rusting due to weather conditions such as snow or salt on the roads during winter months (if you live near snow). Aluminum, on the other hand, is more prone to damage and corrosion. There are steel alloy wheels that use a type of steel known as "high strength steel", which is lighter than normal steel and has better impact resistance. This steel m...