michaelgroves said:
Yes, but nwoods' point is that complete failure is a very rare occurrence, which is germane to whether the vehicle is suitable for expedition use.
I'm not a great fan of computerised vehicles, but let's not overstate things. Is a fried computer worse than a cracked cylinder head or a broken crankshaft? These things happen too (rarely), and you're pretty screwed until you find the spares and facilities you need to have them fixed. At least the electronics often have a "limp home" mode, or can be rectified remotely.
No, I don't think a fried computer is worse than a cracked head, but it's simply another thing that can go wrong. A cracked head can happen to any vehicle (even one with lots of ECUs), but a computer system having a meltdown in the field that stops progress only happens to vehicles who are
dependent on computer systems to operate.
I don't think I'm over-stating things, but as you've pointed out, the computer system is simply
another factor than can leave you stranded on the LR3. And at the end of the day how many computer systems keep the LR3 moving? Unfortunately, the number is rising with many of the newer vehicles.
And really, being able to "rectify it remotely" isn't much of a solution at all as cell service isn't something I get a lot of when I'm on the trail. Limp-home is also a great feature that will get you back to the road ... provided the road you came in on was relatively flat and easy-going. If it goes into limp home mode because of a suspension fault, then your problems may just be beginning.
I'm not trying to be the naysayer of doom, I just don't feel like saying an LR3 is a good platform to build on for an overland, vehicle-dependent type expedition rig is responsible. For the same matter, I wouldn't recommend anything on the market that requires more than a set of hand tools to stay on track when things break.
I can deal without air conditioning and my radio and my computer-controlled heated seats if it means getting my family home safe and sound. Don't get me wrong, I'm a die-hard Land Rover guy, but I also expect a level of honesty when it comes to these rigs and their ability in respect to trail repairs.
So ... my vote is for a Series truck or an FJ-40