I think I have decided, going with a tahoe for an off-road/overland build

[socalls]

So after doing extensive research and realizing that Toyota's are just too overpriced for what they're, I will begin my research and go with a 3rd gen Tahoe Build, it seems the best way to start is to get a an SSV trim and go from there, but I do like all the LTZ options so I'm a little on the fence on what I want to do, at the minimum I believe I will need the following:

-Trim front and maybe back bumpers, this can go from free to purchasing an aftermarket bumper and trimming it
-Lift, I've read on some options so looking to see what is the most affordable but reliable setup
-Skid plates, have to research to see what's out there
-rock sliders
-good tires, looking at bfgoodrich k02 and Falken wildpeak atw3
-I believe Tahoe's come with stock recovery points but if not this would be an option
-Winch could be necessary depending on what I do with this vehicle

I think this summarizes the basics I believe I will need to start some off-road/overlanding, let me know if you want to chime in and help with this build

 

[Bill 1960]

Hey, welcome to the gang. Just go in with your eyes open and not unrealistic expectations insofar as costs go. The reason those other vehicles sell for more is they’re capable right off the showroom floor. Getting a Hoe to the same place won’t save you a dime.

In my opinion, of course. However that’s an opinion formed by building several off-road rigs over the years and buying a few more brand new. It’s real easy to spend more on mods than what the vehicle cost. I’m almost there now, and not done by any means.

 

[Dustin Jackson]

@socalls Glad to see you over on this forum, this is the post that I want you to look at: https://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/thr...ers-front-and-rear.93184/page-11#post-1544887

 

[socalls]

Hey, welcome to the gang. Just go in with your eyes open and not unrealistic expectations insofar as costs go. The reason those other vehicles sell for more is they’re capable right off the showroom floor. Getting a Hoe to the same place won’t save you a dime.

In my opinion, of course. However that’s an opinion formed by building several off-road rigs over the years and buying a few more brand new. It’s real easy to spend more on mods than what the vehicle cost. I’m almost there now, and not done by any means.

So what specifically would you say that would deter me away from this platform, I want realistic scenarios since I'm pretty new at this

 

[Dustin Jackson]

So what specifically would you say that would deter me away from this platform, I want realistic scenarios since I'm pretty new at this

@socalls I think the only advantages that other platforms have over this one is that the Tahoe is bigger and heavier than most if not all other trail rigs.

Other than that it is a great platform, most come with 4wd and a G80 rear end from the factory which is more than enough to get your foot in the door. I did my fair share of wheeling in a 99 Tahoe 2wd Tahoe with a G80 rear end.

 

[Dantheman1540]

I think the SSVs are a great platform to start with except you want the nice LTZ bits which cost a lot if you piece it together. Probably easier and cheaper to just find a lower mile LTZ/Denali/Escalade. Maybe one with a nice interior but the exterior isn't that great so you can get it cheaper and not worry about off-road damage. Also for offroading I'd highly suggest finding a truck with the 6 speed trans if you want a NNBS gen.

 

[socalls]

@socalls I think the only advantages that other platforms have over this one is that the Tahoe is bigger and heavier than most if not all other trail rigs.

Other than that it is a great platform, most come with 4wd and a G80 rear end from the factory which is more than enough to get your foot in the door. I did my fair share of wheeling in a 99 Tahoe 2wd Tahoe with a G80 rear end.

I think the SSVs are a great platform to start with except you want the nice LTZ bits which cost a lot if you piece it together. Probably easier and cheaper to just find a lower mile LTZ/Denali/Escalade. Maybe one with a nice interior but the exterior isn't that great so you can get it cheaper and not worry about off-road damage. Also for offroading I'd highly suggest finding a truck with the 6 speed trans if you want a NNBS gen.

Do you guys know the real difference between the SSV and the other's? I think I could just start with an LTZ and add the skid plates and chop the bumper and boom I have an SSV LTZ level??

 

[Dantheman1540]

Do you guys know the real difference between the SSV and the other's? I think I could just start with an LTZ and add the skid plates and chop the bumper and boom I have an SSV LTZ level??

I'm not an SSV or NNBS specialist but that's pretty much my understanding of it.

 

[Dustin Jackson]

Do you guys know the real difference between the SSV and the other's? I think I could just start with an LTZ and add the skid plates and chop the bumper and boom I have an SSV LTZ level??

@socalls The SSV is like the basic police package I think. You don't really need that, you just need a Tahoe that has the Z71/offroad package which any trim can have. The LTZ has the leather and shiny electrics but that doesn't mean it will have the skid plates and tow hooks. Best to find a tahoe you want and research the RPO codes it has.

If you have the VIN number of a tahoe you can email it to [email protected] and they will email you back the build sheet for that tahoe, that will tell you everything about the tahoe (gear ratio, color, trim package options, tow options..)

What about the SSV is appealing to you?

 

[Bill 1960]

So what specifically would you say that would deter me away from this platform, I want realistic scenarios since I'm pretty new at this

I’m not saying you should be deterred from building a GMT900, just don’t do it to save money vs a Toyota. The Toy you can fly into town, rent one at the airport, and hit the trails in factory form. I encounter plenty of them. The Tahoe may be cheaper up front but is not trail ready. Not capable of the same level of trail as the Toyota, I should say. You will spend money getting it to that condition.

The only technical shortfalls of a Hoe, in my opinion, are that it’s wider, and it has a relatively weak aluminum front diff.

Every vehicle has some shortcomings, nothing is perfect.