Watch the original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uCoSla70YM

The Journey of "Big Richard": A Deep Dive into Overland Vehicle Building

A couple of years ago, AJ Buckley’s team reached out to our store, Total OffRoad in Charleston, South Carolina, with a fascinating proposal. They inquired whether we would be interested in outfitting a vehicle for overland adventures and potentially participate in various ventures including a podcast. As a burgeoning venture with 33 stores nationwide, Total OffRoad saw this as a remarkable opportunity to enhance our brand recognition.

My name is TJ Ferrara, and I am the service manager at Total OffRoad Charleston. I was the lead in outfitting AJ Buckley’s truck, affectionately known as "Big Richard." Over the course of two phases, we meticulously planned and executed modifications to transform it from a regular truck into a rugged overland machine.

Phase 1: Suspension and Exterior Work

The first phase primarily focused on enhancing the suspension and making slight changes to the exterior. Our goal was to ensure "Big Richard" rode smoothly and projected a formidable look. We embraced an off-road overland style characterized by large tires paired with smaller wheels. However, an unexpected challenge arose when the 17-inch wheels we initially selected wouldn’t clear the knuckles on the lift kit.

Fortunately, our partnership with Method Wheels allowed us to quickly adapt. They supplied a set of 20-inch wheels from their raised wheel line, perfectly complementing our design. Simultaneously, Mickey Thompson supplied their excellent Baja Boss ATS tires. This all-terrain, yet aggressive tire matched AJ’s vision perfectly.

Advanced Modifications and Technological Interventions

Integrating coilovers was a sophisticated process as it required disassembling significant components of the vehicle’s front end. This included removing the knuckles, brakes, and lowering the control arms. To accommodate the increased height, we dropped the crossmember, repositioning the differential to ensure the driveline maintained proper angles.

We utilized the Rough Country lift system, which involved cutting the factory crossmember for the new structure installation. This transition was seamless, moving from a factory setup to an impressive 6-inch lift.

Phase 2: Additional Enhancements and Personal Touches

Recognizing the necessity for secure storage, especially given AJ’s need to carry camping, hunting, and podcast gear, we collaborated with SmartCap. Their Adventure Series cap provided locking mechanisms on all doors, which operate with a single key for convenience.

Adding personal flair, we incorporated roof tracks for tent mounting options and installed Molly panels inside the side wing doors. This solution enabled efficient storage and organization, ensuring nothing was misplaced during travel. Additionally, a humorous touch was the inclusion of a small "Big Richard" Easter egg hidden on the vehicle, which AJ embraced with glee.

Reflecting on the Build

Across both visits, "Big Richard" spent merely days in our shop before taking to the road again. Our team’s ability to quickly yet reliably transform a stock truck into a robust off-roader remains a point of pride. It’s always a thrill to see our hard work manifested in such a unique and custom vehicle. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the vehicle but the stories and adventures it provokes.