We had many discussions around which truck to buy for the trip. It probably took us about 3 months to agree and we probably didn't fully commit to it until we actually found our truck. But through that time, among mentions of huge 8x8 Tatras and tiny Bukhankas (UAZ 452), there was always one that kept creeping back into the conversation.
The Leyland DAF T244, an ex-military 11-tonne workhorse, is used to harsh conditions like Africa and offers unbeatable quality for people on a budget adventure like us. Here are the main features that made it the best choice for us:
Design. An all-mechanics no-electrics truck was what we were going for. We've had enough issues dealing with electrical failure on our cars to not want to experience that on the road in Africa. The DAF has a simple 5.9L diesel engine with no electronics. You need to physically decompress it so it'll turn off. We're hoping mechanical simplicity will make it easier for us to service and fix on the road.
Reliability. DAFs are ex-military trucks used all over the world. The army decommissions them regularly creating a steady supply of good quality trucks that have been looked after. They are also designed to transport heavy cargo loads and are more than capable in carrying an overlanding box through Africa.
Parts availability. These Leyland DAFs have a 5.9L Cummins turbo engine known as the work horse of Africa. Engine parts availability on the continent is good and mechanics familiar with these trucks are plentiful. This will hopefully mitigate the pain of any big breaks on the road.
Price. Last but not least. One of the most attractive features of the Leyland DAF is its price. If you are looking for a 4x4 truck on a (tight) budget you probably keep finding yourself going back to one of them because these are the cheapest quality 4x4 trucks you will find.
No matter how long and far we looked we couldn't find another truck that could fit our bill for such a low price without compromising on quality.
Design. An all-mechanics no-electrics truck was what we were going for. We've had enough issues dealing with electrical failure on our cars to not want to experience that on the road in Africa. The DAF has a simple 5.9L diesel engine with no electronics. You need to physically decompress it so it'll turn off. We're hoping mechanical simplicity will make it easier for us to service and fix on the road.
Reliability. DAFs are ex-military trucks used all over the world. The army decommissions them regularly creating a steady supply of good quality trucks that have been looked after. They are also designed to transport heavy cargo loads and are more than capable in carrying an overlanding box through Africa.
Parts availability. These Leyland DAFs have a 5.9L Cummins turbo engine known as the work horse of Africa. Engine parts availability on the continent is good and mechanics familiar with these trucks are plentiful. This will hopefully mitigate the pain of any big breaks on the road.
Price. Last but not least. One of the most attractive features of the Leyland DAF is its price. If you are looking for a 4x4 truck on a (tight) budget you probably keep finding yourself going back to one of them because these are the cheapest quality 4x4 trucks you will find.
No matter how long and far we looked we couldn't find another truck that could fit our bill for such a low price without compromising on quality.