Overland Expo West 2018: Gear, Travel, and Fun
Travelers and overlanding enthusiasts from all around the world descended to Flagstaff, AZ recently to attend the 2018 Overland Expo West event. Men, women; young and old were present and…
Ask. Learn. Pass it on.
I just got back from Overland Expo West where I was on booth duty. Frankly, I love working the show booth because I enjoy helping others with their questions. On…
2018 NWAPA Mudfest, aka Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year
For more than 20 years, members of the Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA) have put trucks, SUVs, CUVs, and other 4WD/AWD vehicles through their paces at the group’s annual Outdoor…
Crankshaft Chronicles: Eric Bewley’s Suzuki Sidekick “Sweet Pea”
We unabashedly have a soft spot for Suzuki 4x4s. When I was a kid growing up in the 1980s, I remember thinking that Samurais were awesome and that someday I…
Crankshaft Culture on the Auto Off Topic Podcast
Both Andy and I had the unexpected pleasure of appearing on the Auto Off Topic Podcast last week while visiting family in Boston, and we want you to listen! The…
New 33″ Tires for Pajero Projecto
We’re just getting around to getting some work done on the Pajero Projecto. It’s been cleaned up, the oil and filter have been changed, and we finally got new tires…
Crankshaft Chronicles: Ray Hyland’s Land Rover Defender 110
Whenever we meet someone who owns a Land Rover, especially folks that own a Land Rover Defender, they always have good stories to tell. Many of these heavy-duty iron machines…
Crankshaft Culture on the Off Road Podcast
Both Mercedes and I had the pleasure of appearing on the Off Road Podcast last month, and we’re just getting around to sharing this out.
Crankshaft Chronicles: Josh and Elise’s 2012 Toyota Tacoma
Toyotas have long been admired as preferred vehicles for anyone looking to travel long distances over a variety of terrain. Their vehicles, such as the iconic Land Cruiser, or versatile Tacoma,…
Delicas Unite! A Crankshaft Culture Gathering in Oregon
Last weekend Andy and I hosted a gathering of Mitsubishi Delica owners from all over the Pacific Northwest. Local folks from Portland and Delica owners from as far away as…
Guest Posts
What’s a Good Brand for UTV Storage Boxes That Don’t Leak and Can Handle Being Pressure Washed?
Anyone who uses a UTV regularly knows how quickly gear can get dirty, wet, or damaged. Whether you ride muddy trails, work on a ranch, hunt in remote areas, or spend weekends exploring backroads, keeping your equipment protected is a priority. Along with other essential UTV accessories, a reliable storage…
Hidden Winch vs Standard Hilux Bullbars: Which Setup Suits You?
Choosing the right bullbar for your Hilux is not just about how it looks from the front. It affects protection, recovery options, weight, airflow, accessory mounting and how practical your ute feels day to day. For many owners, one of the biggest decisions is whether to go with a hidden…
Cat-Back vs Axle-Back Toyota 86 Exhausts: Which Is Better?
The Toyota 86 is one of those cars that almost begs for a better exhaust note. It is light, balanced, fun to drive and built for people who actually enjoy being behind the wheel. But from the factory, the exhaust can feel a little too quiet for some owners. That…