#148 - Duggo's V8 79 Series LandCruiser 20,000km Review
About this episode
Duggo’s Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series V8 gets a 20,000 km review, with the conversation starting from its loud exhaust character and how it carries into the cabin. They talk freeway noise, wind, and the “elephant in the room” of sound inside the cab, plus what they’ve done to access the transmission after a gearbox issue. The hosts also compare the 79’s off-road confidence, gearing, steering feel, and brake upgrades, then wrap with ownership, servicing choices, and comfort mods like armrests and a better awning setup.
Duggo's 79 Series V8 Land Cruiser has just ticked over 20,000 kilometres so we thought we'd get his thoughts on how he's enjoying the car so far.
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V8 sound
"[21.9s] Ah, the V8 sound, because it's loud, mate, it's a loud, loud sounding car, shout out [28.1s] to Terrain Tamer on board now with the tip of the week, the Terrain Tamer tip of the"
A V8 engine has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. People often describe the “V8 sound” as the distinctive growl you hear from the exhaust.
A “V8” is an engine with eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. The “V8 sound” refers to the characteristic exhaust note and vibration that many people associate with V8 engines, especially under load.
Terrain Tamer
"shout out [28.1s] to Terrain Tamer on board now with the tip of the week, the Terrain Tamer tip of the [32.8s] week, and I hope you got a bloody good one, mate, because I think in the episode we're"
Terrain Tamer is a company that makes off-road gear for 4x4s. Here, they’re mentioned as part of the show’s segment and likely as a sponsor.
Terrain Tamer is an off-road parts and accessories brand commonly associated with 4x4 suspension, touring, and vehicle setup solutions. In this episode, they’re referenced as providing a “tip of the week” and being “on board,” suggesting sponsorship or involvement.
20,000 K review
"So it's a bit of a 20,000 K review of the 79, we thought we're going out bush or we [56.5s] can jump in the car and have a little chat about the 79, and yes, it is loud, and that"
A “20,000 K review” means the host is evaluating the vehicle after roughly 20,000 kilometers of real-world use. For off-road vehicles, this kind of mileage-based review is often used to judge durability, wear items, and how the setup behaves over time.
Four inch manor exhaust
"[276.3s] How, what exhaust have you got on this? [279.3s] Four inch? [279.7s] Four inch manor. [280.7s] Four inch manor exhaust."
“Four inch” is the size of the exhaust pipe. Bigger pipes can change the sound and how easily the engine can push exhaust out.
“Four inch” refers to the exhaust pipe diameter, which affects how freely exhaust gases can flow. A larger-diameter exhaust often changes the sound and can reduce backpressure, though the exact effect depends on the full exhaust setup.
sound inside the cab
"[283.6s] Now, I'm going to, you haven't asked me what I'm just going to tell you. [286.0s] No, no, no. [286.4s] The elephant in the room is the sound inside the cab. [289.4s] Now, some people love it, I kind of love it."
They’re talking about how loud the exhaust sounds from inside the truck. Some people love it, but it can get annoying when you’re driving for a while.
Cab sound (often called cabin noise) is how loud the exhaust and drivetrain feel from inside the vehicle. With off-road exhausts, the same modification that sounds great outside can become tiring or annoying on longer drives.
79 Series LandCruiser
"Obviously, you've chosen the 79 [571.1s] I'm keen to get your thoughts on how you're feeling. [574.5s] 22000 Ks in to owning the 79"
The Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series is a tough, off-road 4x4 made to handle rough roads and long trips. Here, the discussion is about how the owner feels after driving it for about 20,000 km and adding upgrades.
The Toyota LandCruiser 79 Series is a rugged, body-on-frame 4x4 built for durability and long-distance off-road use. In this episode, the host is comparing it against another off-road-focused wagon choice and discussing how the 79 Series feels after 20,000 km of ownership and mods.
lift
"You've obviously done a few mods to it. [580.7s] You've got the tires, the lift, the bar work done. [583.8s] You've got the full canopy on the back."
A “lift” means raising the car higher off the ground using suspension changes. It helps the vehicle clear obstacles and can make room for bigger off-road tires.
A “lift” is an aftermarket suspension change that raises a vehicle’s ride height. On a 4x4, it’s usually done to improve ground clearance and allow larger tires to fit for off-road use.
full canopy
"You've got the tires, the lift, the bar work done. [583.8s] You've got the full canopy on the back. [585.4s] Thanks to TLX, I tech world with the twelve volt setup in the back."
A “full canopy” is an enclosed rear cargo cover, often used on 4x4s to protect gear from weather and theft. It also commonly integrates storage and mounting points for accessories.
twelve volt setup
"Thanks to TLX, I tech world with the twelve volt setup in the back. [592.1s] You've got the the black duck seat covers, the one stone armrest inside. [595.9s] The interior is quite nice."
A “twelve volt setup” is extra 12V power in the back of the vehicle. It lets you run camping gear like lights, chargers, or a fridge more easily.
A “twelve volt setup” refers to an auxiliary 12V electrical system in the vehicle’s rear/cargo area. It powers camping and off-road accessories (like fridges, lights, chargers) without relying solely on the factory outlets.
black duck seat covers
"You've got the the black duck seat covers, the one stone armrest inside. [595.9s] The interior is quite nice. [597.4s] You've done a you've done a few things to it, mate."
“Duck” seat covers are tough fabric covers for the seats. They’re meant to protect the seats from dirt and everyday wear, especially if you use the vehicle off-road.
“Duck” seat covers are typically made from durable canvas-like fabric (often called duck cloth) designed to resist scuffs and wear. In off-road builds, they’re chosen to protect upholstery from dirt and heavy use.
the grenadier
"And but in saying that the grenadier, if we're going to compare, like Ronnie's proving that he's doing as good, if not a better job and he's doing it probably more comfortably."
They’re comparing the Land Cruiser to the Grenadier, another off-road 4x4 aimed at overlanding. The key point here is which one feels more comfortable and fits the owner’s goals better.
The host compares the Toyota Land Cruiser 79/70 space to the Grenadier, an off-road-focused 4x4 built with overlanding in mind. The discussion centers on comfort and how well each vehicle suits the kind of Australian ownership and modification path they want.
running gear
"But the the comfortability for me was something that I was willing to part ways with to get my V8, the Land Cruiser, the running gear on this out of the factory."
“Running gear” means the parts underneath that help the car drive and move—like the drivetrain and suspension components. They’re saying they wanted the Land Cruiser’s factory setup as the foundation for upgrades.
“Running gear” is the drivetrain and underbody components that make the vehicle move—typically things like the axles, suspension, and transmission-related hardware. In this context, the host means they’re keeping the Land Cruiser’s factory mechanical base and then building from there with modifications.
fouries
"So we're going to become fouries. You know, I've loved every minute of owning this car."
“Fouries” is slang for four-wheel-drive vehicles. They’re talking about heading toward more serious 4x4 options.
“Fouries” is Australian slang for four-wheel drives (4x4s). Here it’s used to describe moving further up the lineup of vehicles that are meant for off-road capability.
sound deadening
"Obviously spoke about the sound deadening that's probably top of the list now. And I just think that's that that is a comfortability thing."
Sound deadening is stuff added to the car to make it quieter inside. It helps reduce noise and vibration, which is why the host says it’s a priority for comfort.
Sound deadening refers to materials and treatments added to reduce cabin noise—especially road, wind, and mechanical vibration. The host ranks it as a top priority because it directly improves perceived comfort during driving.
dynamic diesel performance
"I've only done a very small tune with dynamic diesel performance. And I'll probably eventually end up back there and giving it a bit more of a tickle turbo,"
Dynamic diesel performance is basically tuning the diesel so it feels stronger and responds better. It’s about changing how the engine manages fuel and boost so you get more usable power.
Dynamic diesel performance refers to a diesel tuning approach that improves how the engine delivers power and response. In practice, it usually means adjusting engine calibration (fueling and boost behavior) to make the diesel feel less sluggish and more usable under load.
tickle turbo
"And I'll probably eventually end up back there and giving it a bit more of a tickle turbo, something that I'll probably will upgrade to some stage as well."
“Tickle turbo” means turning the turbo up a little bit so the engine makes more boost. It’s usually a mild change to make the car feel quicker.
“Tickle turbo” is enthusiast slang for increasing turbo boost slightly to wake up a turbo-diesel’s power. It implies a mild tune rather than a full-on aggressive setup, aiming for better acceleration without going too far.
campus style
"I'll probably just need to use it a little bit more now in terms of the back set up and the the canopy and the campus style. Yeah."
“Campus style” sounds like a particular way of setting up camping gear on the vehicle. It’s basically how they arrange and use the back area for camping.
“Campus style” here appears to refer to a camping setup style used with the vehicle’s rear storage and canopy. It’s likely shorthand for a particular overlanding layout (how the gear is staged and how you live out of the vehicle).
cool bar lights
"Basically probably in order of what I did, it was sort of, I think the bar work went on first, cool bar lights, scrubby side steps, that sort of thing."
Bar lights are extra headlights mounted on the front bar. They help you see farther ahead on dark roads and trails.
“Bar lights” are auxiliary driving lights mounted to the front bull bar (often called a “bar” in 4x4 circles). They’re used to improve visibility on night drives and remote tracks beyond what the factory headlights provide.
scrubby side steps
"Basically probably in order of what I did, it was sort of, I think the bar work went on first, cool bar lights, scrubby side steps, that sort of thing."
Scrubby side steps are tough side bars/steps for getting in and out. They’re also meant to protect the sides when you’re driving through rough, brushy areas.
“Scrubby side steps” are side protection/steps designed for off-road use, typically with a shape intended to reduce damage from brush and improve access when climbing in and out. They’re commonly paired with other “bar work” and underbody protection mods.
tray
"Obviously I had the tray on there. So fitted a dog box on that at the time."
A tray is a cargo platform for carrying gear. It’s a common upgrade on off-road vehicles so you can haul equipment for trips.
A “tray” is a utility cargo platform (often a flatbed-style tray) mounted to the vehicle for carrying gear. On 4x4s, it’s a common base for expedition setups and for mounting additional equipment.
dog box
"Obviously I had the tray on there. So fitted a dog box on that at the time. Yeah."
A “dog box” is a special kind of manual gearbox. It uses a more direct gear engagement method, which can make shifting more robust when you’re working the vehicle hard.
A “dog box” is a manual transmission using dog-style engagement for the gears, typically found in motorsport or heavy-duty off-road builds. Compared with a normal synchromesh gearbox, it’s designed for faster, more positive gear changes and can handle repeated hard use.
gun barrel highway
"And that was your setup that you had on the gun barrel highway. Yeah. So this is a different setup than what you had on the gun barrel."
The Gunbarrel Highway is a famous remote road in Australia. The host mentions it to explain which upgrades were done before tackling that kind of tough trip.
The Gunbarrel Highway is a well-known remote outback route in Australia, often used as a benchmark for how well a 4x4 setup can handle long, rough travel. In this segment, the host references it to explain which mods were already installed before that trip.
Tough Dog kit
"So that, but suspension went on early to lift, went on early, the tough dog kit and then the exhaust was fitted quite early, snorkel was fitted quite early."
A Tough Dog kit is an aftermarket suspension upgrade. It’s meant to make the vehicle handle better off-road, especially when you’ve added weight like bars, a tray, and other gear.
The “Tough Dog kit” refers to an aftermarket suspension package from Tough Dog, typically including components like shocks/struts and springs tuned for off-road use. The host notes it was fitted early and that it’s “heavier rated,” meaning it’s built to better handle extra weight and rough terrain.
snorkel
"the tough dog kit and then the exhaust was fitted quite early, snorkel was fitted quite early. I can't remember the order of all that happening, but all of that was on prior to the gun barrel"
A snorkel is a raised air intake. It helps the engine breathe when you’re driving through water or dusty tracks.
A snorkel is an intake extension that raises the air intake above the height of water and dust. On 4x4s like the LandCruiser, it helps reduce the risk of water ingestion when crossing creeks and improves intake air quality in dusty conditions.
pre-fuel filter kit
"[1055.9s] Pre-fuel filter kit was done, airbox was done, all of that. [1059.5s] That's right. [1060.3s] Did you get the, you obviously got the diff breathers as well with that?"
This is an extra fuel filter setup placed before the main one. It helps keep dirt and water out of the fuel so the engine runs cleaner and more reliably.
A pre-fuel filter kit adds filtration before the main fuel filter. It’s meant to catch extra sediment/water early, which can protect the injection system and keep fuel delivery consistent—especially useful on dusty or remote trips.
airbox
"[1055.9s] Pre-fuel filter kit was done, airbox was done, all of that. [1059.5s] That's right. [1060.3s] Did you get the, you obviously got the diff breathers as well with that?"
The airbox is part of the engine’s air intake. It helps control how air gets into the engine, and off-road versions are often better at keeping dust out.
An airbox is the intake housing that manages airflow into the engine. In off-road builds, an upgraded airbox can improve dust management and sealing so the engine gets cleaner air in harsh conditions.
diff breathers
"[1060.3s] Did you get the, you obviously got the diff breathers as well with that? [1063.6s] Diff breathers were done. [1064.4s] You got the combo kit."
A diff breather is a small vent for the rear axle’s gearbox. When you drive through water, it can help stop water from getting sucked inside the axle.
Diff breathers are extensions that relocate the axle differential’s venting point higher up. That helps prevent water and mud from being sucked into the differential housing during deep water crossings, reducing the chance of contamination and oil breakdown.
12 volt setup
"[1075.0s] The 12 volt setup has obviously improved. [1078.5s] Like I was running a basic object world setup for the gun barrel trip, but then swapped [1082.9s] that around to a much bigger setup now in the back of the canopy and the tune happened"
That’s the extra electrical system in the car that runs accessories on 12-volt power. Off-road setups usually improve wiring and power so gadgets work without draining the main system.
A 12 volt setup refers to the vehicle’s auxiliary electrical system used to power accessories like fridges, lights, compressors, or charging gear. Off-road builds often upgrade wiring, fusing, and storage (like batteries) so accessories can run reliably.
tune
"[1082.9s] that around to a much bigger setup now in the back of the canopy and the tune happened [1089.9s] post trip as well. [1091.7s] So I ran just the standard engine numbers, all that gun barrel trip, which was still"
A tune is a calibration update to the engine’s control unit (ECU) to change how it runs—often to match new intake/exhaust/fuel hardware or to improve drivability. In off-road contexts, it can help the engine respond better under load and maintain smoother fueling.
bar work
"[1127.9s] So if I was putting it down to a three that I would do or I would recommend for other [1132.9s] 70 series owners to do. [1135.3s] Let's say straight away. [1136.7s] I think straight away, I'd do the bar work, like especially if you're going to be driving"
Bar work is extra protection bars on the front or rear of the vehicle. It helps protect the car and gives you places to attach recovery equipment.
Bar work refers to off-road front/rear protection bars—commonly bull bars, recovery bars, or similar steel/aluminum protection. These are used to protect the vehicle’s front end and to provide mounting points for recovery gear.
70 series
"because it's, they're expensive, but like, I think just look, it's a big investment of 70 series. So I think protecting the front end and that sort of thing is important. And I think the bar, I think bars on the 70 series look good."
The “70 series” is a Toyota Land Cruiser model line. It’s built for tough driving, and people often add protection like bull bars so the front end can handle rocks, branches, and debris on trips.
“70 series” refers to the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series, a long-running, body-on-frame 4x4 platform known for durability and off-road capability. In this segment, they’re talking about protecting the front end and adding bar work, which are common mods for long-distance touring and rough-road use.
sluggish
"Just like, if you haven't come out of the 70 series, if you've come from another car into one, I think you will find it potentially a little bit sluggish. So I would say that an easy one to do and you don't need to go, you don't need to go overs at all."
In this context, “sluggish” describes throttle response and low-speed acceleration feel—how quickly the vehicle reacts when you ask for power. They’re warning that if you’re coming from another car into a 70 Series, the V8 may feel less immediate until it’s tuned or you adjust expectations.
tires
"I think what I would do to any four-wheel drive is tires. So, you know, not even. Head to your local tire power."
For a 4WD, tires are one of the biggest upgrades you can make. The right tire type helps the car grip better on dirt, gravel, and uneven ground.
In off-road 4WD setups, tires are a primary performance lever because they control traction, ride quality, and how the vehicle behaves on different surfaces. Choosing the right tire type (like all-terrain) can matter as much as other modifications for how usable the vehicle is off-road.
all terrains
"The all terrains and they're probably the three that I would do straight away, but they're probably three, maybe apart from the tune that I'd do to most four-wheel drives anyway."
All-terrain tires are made to handle both normal roads and rougher off-road surfaces. They have tread that grips better on dirt and gravel, but they’re still meant to be usable day-to-day.
“All-terrain” tires are a tire category designed to work on both paved roads and light off-road trails. They typically have more aggressive tread than highway tires for traction on dirt, gravel, and mud, while still being reasonably comfortable and durable for everyday driving.
rear track
"From factory would definitely be to correct the track, the rear track. Yeah. I just... I find that so bizarre that..."
“Rear track” means how far apart the rear wheels are from left to right. If it’s not set up the way you want, people often change it after buying the car.
“Rear track” is the distance between the left and right wheels on the rear axle. If the rear track is narrower or mismatched compared with what the owner wants, it can affect stance, handling balance, and how the vehicle sits on uneven terrain.
track correction kit
"Because everyone goes and either offsets the rear wheels or they have to go and put a track correction kit in which is an expensive task."
A “track correction kit” is an add-on you buy to change where the wheels sit. The goal is usually to make the rear wheel spacing match what you want, instead of leaving it as-is from the factory.
A “track correction kit” is an aftermarket parts package used to change the effective wheel position or axle/wheel alignment so the vehicle’s track width matches the desired setup. In practice, it’s often used to correct a factory wheel-width mismatch by moving wheels outward or adjusting related components.
offsets the rear wheels
"Because everyone goes and either offsets the rear wheels or they have to go and put a track correction kit in which is an expensive task."
To “offset the rear wheels” means to move the wheels’ position. People do this to change how wide the car sits at the back.
“Offset the rear wheels” means changing wheel position relative to the hub/axle so the wheels sit further inboard or outboard. Offsetting is a common way to adjust stance and track width without replacing the whole axle setup.
four inch exhaust
"[1512.0s] I feel like if we... [1516.6s] A four inch exhaust is pretty... [1520.9s] No, it's not outrageous, but it's plenty of people building it. [1523.4s] But it's a big one."
This means the exhaust pipe is about 4 inches wide. A wider exhaust can help gases flow out more easily, which can improve breathing and change the sound—though it’s not always necessary for everyday driving.
A “four inch exhaust” refers to an exhaust system with a roughly 4-inch diameter pipe. Bigger diameter exhausts can reduce backpressure and support higher airflow, which is why off-road and V8 owners often upgrade them when chasing sound or performance.
bigger tyres
"I definitely noticed the difference going from the stock tyres on no lift to bigger bigger tyres, lifts, you know, heavier back."
Bigger tyres can change how the car grips the road and how it feels to drive. They can also make the ride and steering feel different compared with the factory tyres.
Bigger tyres change a vehicle’s grip, ride comfort, steering feel, and effective gearing. On a 4WD, they can also affect how the truck sits and how it responds under throttle and braking.
heavier back
"bigger tyres, lifts, you know, heavier back. So I've noticed all of that change, but it's still..."
“Heavier back” means the rear of the vehicle has more weight than before. That can change how the car sits and how it feels when you’re driving, especially when turning.
“Heavier back” describes increased rear weight, which can come from added equipment or a lift/tyre setup. Extra rear mass affects how the vehicle loads its suspension and tires, changing stability, comfort, and cornering balance.
35s
"With the 35s that I had on for a period of time, that was a very, very distinct change."
“35s” means bigger off-road tires—about 35 inches tall. Bigger tires can change how the car rides and steers, especially compared to smaller tires like “33s.”
“35s” refers to 35-inch off-road tires. Going from one tire size to another (here, later “33s”) changes ride comfort, steering feel, and how the vehicle behaves on-road vs off-road.
33s
"Going back to the 33s, it just suits probably this car at the moment, the way it's set up"
“33s” means smaller off-road tires—about 33 inches tall. Compared to “35s,” they often feel a bit easier to drive on the road while still being capable off-road.
“33s” refers to 33-inch off-road tires. Compared with 35-inch tires, 33s typically reduce weight and rolling resistance, which can make on-road manners feel more controlled while still offering decent off-road capability.
off-road capability
"It surprised me is the off-road capability. The trust that I quickly built on it on that gum barrel trip was just huge."
Off-road capability means how well the car can handle rough, unpaved, or tricky terrain. They’re saying the LandCruiser did better than expected when they tested it off-road.
Off-road capability is how well a vehicle can handle rough terrain like sand, mud, rocks, and steep grades. In this segment, the host says the LandCruiser’s off-road capability exceeded expectations, especially during a trip on a “gum barrel” route.
traction control
"Was it traction control and all that kind of stuff as well that switched off? Yeah, the ABS system was down and all that sort of thing."
Traction control helps stop the wheels from spinning when you’re on slippery ground. They’re asking whether traction control (and similar systems) switched off during the dash issues.
Traction control is a driver-assist system that reduces wheel spin by cutting engine power and/or applying brakes when it detects slipping. The host connects it to the dash warning/behavior changes on the trip, implying multiple stability systems may have switched off.
ABS system
"Yeah, the ABS system was down and all that sort of thing. And just a few..."
ABS is the system that helps you brake without the wheels locking up. If ABS is down, stopping—especially on wet or loose surfaces—can be less controlled.
ABS (anti-lock braking system) prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking by modulating brake pressure. The host says the ABS system was down, which matters because without ABS, braking on loose or slippery surfaces can be less stable and harder to control.
first gear low range
"Was first gear low range downhill. Okay. That was... Surprising. That was incredible."
Low range is a special low-speed gear in a 4x4 that makes the vehicle move slowly with more pulling power. First gear low range is the lowest, most controllable setup for steep hills and rough trails.
“Low range” is the transfer-case gearing that multiplies torque for slow, controlled off-road driving. Using first gear in low range gives maximum crawl speed control for steep descents and technical terrain, which is why the host calls it an “absolute weapon.”
second gear
"Probably the... I felt like first and second gear were pretty short without the tune and the little remat."
Second gear is the gear you use right after first. If it’s “short,” the car moves to the next gear quickly, which can change how the truck feels when you’re creeping along.
“Second gear” is the next-lowest gear after first, used for early acceleration and low-speed crawling. If second gear is also “short,” the vehicle transitions to higher gears quickly, affecting drivability and how often you’re shifting at low speed.
steering wheel was quite free
"It handles pretty well. Like I said before, the steering wheel was quite free in a way. It's got a bit of play in it."
“Free” steering means the wheel can move a bit before the wheels actually turn. That “play” can make the car feel less precise, especially when driving straight.
When someone says the steering wheel was “quite free,” they’re describing steering play—movement in the wheel before the tires respond. Excess play can come from wear or looseness in steering components (like linkages or steering gear), and it affects how precise the truck feels.
Volkswagen Tiguan
"...mfortable. Especially, you know, I drive Lawrence Tiguan and they just sit on the road nice and comfortabl..."
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV meant for regular driving. It’s designed to feel comfortable on regular roads, which is what the podcast is pointing out. Some versions can also have 4-wheel drive, depending on the model.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV designed for everyday comfort, with available all-wheel-drive depending on the market and trim. The podcast context focuses on how it rides “nice and comfortable” on the road, which is a big part of why it’s discussed. It’s typically brought up when people talk about practical family or commuter SUVs rather than hardcore off-road machines.
sensors
"They've got all the sensors that let you know everything. This has got not a lot of that. So you are..."
“Sensors” are the car’s electronic “eyes and ears” that help it detect what’s happening. If a vehicle has fewer sensors, you generally can’t rely on as many automatic safety/handling features.
In modern vehicles, “sensors” are the hardware inputs (cameras, radar, wheel-speed sensors, etc.) that feed driver-assist and stability systems. The host is saying the LandCruiser 79 Series has fewer of these aids than newer SUVs, which increases how much you must concentrate while driving.
line corners
"Like driving around these roads, I've never driven on this road before. Like, you've got to be careful around, you know, line corners and all that sort of thing."
A “driving line” is the path you try to follow through a corner. If you don’t know the road well, choosing the wrong path can make the car feel sketchy, so you need to drive carefully.
“Line corners” refers to taking a corner along a chosen driving line—where you aim to place the car’s path through the turn. On unfamiliar roads, getting the line wrong can make the car feel less predictable, especially if you’re relying more on driver input than electronic stability aids.
manual gearbox
"That's where the manual gearbox helps to... You can gear down and sort of use the engine a little bit."
A manual gearbox means you pick the gear yourself. When you downshift, the engine helps slow the vehicle, which can take some load off the brakes.
A manual gearbox lets the driver choose gears with a clutch, instead of relying on an automatic. In off-road and towing contexts, it can help you slow down by downshifting so the engine contributes braking (engine braking) rather than using only the brake pedal.
79's
"But short-sharp braking, it's not the 79's forte. Yeah, I got the..."
The “79” is short for the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series, a tough 4x4 meant for hard use. Here they’re saying it doesn’t feel as great for quick, hard braking unless you upgrade the brakes.
The “79” refers to the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series, a body-on-frame, go-anywhere 4WD built for durability and heavy-duty use. In this segment, they’re specifically talking about how the 79 Series handles braking during short, sharp stops—i.e., it’s not its strongest trait without brake upgrades.
heavy G-brake brakes
"Actually, Tarantama's heavy G-brake brakes."
“Heavy G” brakes are brake components designed to handle higher deceleration forces (“g” loads) than standard setups. The idea is better fade resistance and stronger, more consistent stopping when you’re doing repeated hard braking—like towing, descending, or frequent stop-start traffic.
Tarantama
"Actually, Tarantama's heavy G-brake brakes. Well, that's actually what I've been in contact with. And those are... I've been quite happy with those."
Tarantama is the brand of brake parts the speaker installed. They’re saying those brakes have been strong and consistent, helping them stop safely when traffic suddenly brakes.
Tarantama is referenced here as a brake supplier/brand for the speaker’s Land Cruiser braking setup. The host says they replaced their brakes with Tarantama “heavy G-brake brakes,” and reports good real-world stopping performance and fewer scary near-misses.
high range, low range
"I love the options. High range, low range. Just the option and the manual as well."
On a 4WD, you can switch between “high range” and “low range.” Low range makes the car crawl slowly with more pulling power, which is useful for rough trails.
High range and low range are the two gearing modes in a 4WD transfer case. High range is for normal driving with better speed, while low range uses a much lower gear ratio for slow, high-torque crawling over obstacles.
four-wheel driving
"Just the option and the manual as well. I've never really understood the four-wheel driving in a manual. Yeah,"
They’re talking about 4WD—power going to all four wheels. That helps the car stick better on slippery or rough ground, especially when you’re going slowly.
“Four-wheel driving” here refers to using a 4WD system to send power to all four wheels for traction. The key idea is that it helps maintain grip when surfaces are loose, slippery, or uneven—especially when combined with low range gearing.
AGD
"[2252.2s] He's in a 76 series. [2253.7s] He couldn't speak more highly of those boys at AGD. [2258.3s] So Aaron's looked after it for me."
AGD is the workshop the host is praising. The point is that people who know Land Cruisers trust them to do the work.
AGD is referenced as the shop/workshop the host’s contacts speak highly of. In this context, it’s being used as evidence that the Land Cruiser is being handled by experienced people.
12 volt master
"Yeah. And Andy's a 12 volt master. Andy's really good."
That phrase means the installer is really good at the car’s 12-volt electrical system. They’re the kind of person you go to for wiring up accessories and making sure everything works safely.
A “12 volt master” is a person who specializes in 12V automotive electrical work—wiring, accessories, and power distribution. In a 4x4 context, it often means they can install and troubleshoot auxiliary systems like lighting, batteries, and other add-ons that run off the vehicle’s 12V network.
PDP kit
"So they actually installed like the PDP kit in the front. The exhaust."
A “PDP kit” is a set of parts and upgrades for a diesel to make it run better. The idea is usually to improve airflow and how the diesel system breathes so it feels stronger and more responsive.
“PDP kit” refers to a specific diesel-performance upgrade package associated with PDP (Diesel Performance) tuning and hardware. In this segment, it’s described as being installed in the front area and paired with supporting breathing/filtration upgrades, implying it’s meant to improve diesel airflow and overall drivability.
Acura TLX
"...nd do some... Yeah, I'll have to probably talk to TLX about how we get it up there just because it's a ..."
The Acura TLX is a mid-size sedan that’s made to feel more upscale than a basic car. In the podcast, it’s mentioned because someone needs to coordinate how to get it to a location. It’s being referenced as a specific car model in that process.
The Acura TLX is a mid-size luxury sedan built for a balance of comfort and performance. In the podcast, it’s mentioned in a practical logistics sense—someone may need to “talk to TLX” to get the vehicle up somewhere—suggesting it’s part of a discussion around transport or setup. It comes up because it’s a specific model people may be dealing with in real-world situations.
Ranger
"Anything for people that are, I mean, knowing about a 79 series, like whether they go a 79 or whether they go a Ranger..."
“Ranger” means the Ford Ranger pickup. People often compare it to a Land Cruiser because it’s a common 4x4 option with lots of parts and accessories available.
“Ranger” is the Ford Ranger, a popular Australian ute (pickup) that’s often chosen as an alternative to a Land Cruiser for 4x4 touring. It’s typically bought for its practicality, dealer support, and wide range of aftermarket upgrades.
Toyota Hilux
"... is obviously a quite popular youth as well, or a Hilux, even a shark potentially, those hybrids or hybri..."
The Toyota Hilux is a midsize pickup truck that’s commonly used for work and outdoor driving. The podcast mentions it because it’s a well-known model and because people are talking about hybrid versions. It’s being brought up as a popular choice in that category.
The Toyota Hilux is a popular midsize pickup known for its strength and widespread use in work and off-road settings. The podcast references it alongside other ideas about “youth” popularity and mentions hybrids, indicating it’s part of a conversation about modern powertrains and what people are choosing. It’s often discussed because it’s a go-to platform for durability-focused buyers.
hybrid electrics
"or a Hilux, even a shark potentially, those hybrids or hybrid electrics are coming in."
“Hybrid electrics” are cars that use both a regular engine and an electric motor. The goal is usually better fuel economy, but people still want to know how well they work for towing and off-road driving.
“Hybrid electrics” refers to vehicles that combine a conventional engine with an electric motor and battery. In the context of 4x4 utes and wagons, the big question is how the hybrid system affects real-world towing, off-road traction, and long-distance fuel use.
Ford Falcon
"and do what we do. You can do this, like, in a Falcon if you wanted to, or like a Forester or something..."
The Ford Falcon is a car model that can be modified or customized. In the podcast, it’s used as an example of a vehicle you could choose if you wanted to do a certain kind of project. It’s being mentioned as a possible starting point.
The Ford Falcon is a passenger car platform that can be used for various builds, including performance or customization projects. In the podcast, it’s mentioned as an example of where someone could do a particular setup “if you wanted to,” highlighting its role as a base vehicle. That’s why it shows up in a discussion that’s about what you can build or modify.
Forester
"You can do this, like, in a Falcon if you wanted to, [2695.1s] or like a Forester or something like that."
They’re name-dropping the Subaru Forester as a practical car for trips. The idea is that you can use it for getting around and doing some dirt/gravel-style driving.
“Forester” refers to the Subaru Forester, a compact SUV known for being practical and capable for everyday driving and light off-road use. Here it’s used as another example of a vehicle that can still get you out and do touring.
secondhand
"I think the thing is, well, you can buy these secondhand [2710.9s] and still probably trust that they're going to do the trick for you."
They mean buying a used car instead of a new one. Their claim is that you can still get a vehicle that will work well even if it’s not brand new.
“Secondhand” is used here in the car-buying sense of purchasing a used vehicle rather than new. The host’s point is that these kinds of vehicles can still be reliable even when bought used.
due diligence
"because do you do due diligence on the car that you're buying, of course, [2721.2s] especially with this hand, but just buy one if you see it."
“Due diligence” means doing careful checks before buying a used vehicle—like verifying its condition, service history, and overall suitability. In car buying, it’s the difference between assuming a car is fine and confirming it with real evidence.
200,000Ks on the clock
"So whether you get one brand new or you might find one with 200,000Ks on the clock, [2732.4s] you've still probably got a fair life ahead of it."
They’re talking about the car’s mileage—how many kilometers it’s done. The point is that high mileage doesn’t automatically mean the car is worn out.
“On the clock” is a colloquial way to refer to a vehicle’s odometer reading (how many kilometers it has traveled). The host is arguing that even with high mileage, the vehicle can still have a “fair life ahead.”
gravel and the dirt
"then it's a wicked car to have, [2752.7s] especially if you're going to be on the gravel and the dirt and, yeah, touring."
They mean rough, unpaved roads like gravel and dirt. The point is that the car can handle those surfaces when you’re touring away from the city.
“Gravel and dirt” describes unpaved surfaces that typically require more traction and stability than smooth pavement. The host is framing the vehicle as suitable for touring that includes off-road or semi-off-road roads.
armrests
"So the one stone armrest is, is great for that right hand [2905.5s] and the center console for the left... [2946.3s] would be going at yourself a set of those armrests."
Armrests are the padded supports you rest your arm on. They can make long drives less tiring, especially when you’re trying to keep your arm in a comfortable spot.
Armrests are padded supports that give your forearm a place to rest, reducing fatigue on long drives. The host is specifically discussing how an armrest/center-console setup changes comfort and hand position in the Land Cruiser cab.
cup holders
"I think cup holders and armrests are perfect. [2940.4s] The terrain time of the week is I reckon the first purchase."
Cup holders are the little built-in spots where you put your drink. On bumpy drives, they help keep your drink from tipping over.
Cup holders are the built-in storage recesses designed to hold drinks while driving. In off-road vehicles, they matter because vibrations and rough roads make it harder to keep bottles and cups from sliding around.
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