Advice please first 4x4 purchase

[Dozerscud]

Hi all. I am looking for my first rig.
Budget of around 11k
I live in Adelaide
Must be an auto so the Mrs can drive if need be.
For touring, towing 4m tinny and off road adventuring
I was thinking GU about 03 04
Was hoping for a 3l diesel and doing all the NADS but......I was wondering if Duel fuel would be a better way to go and how much I would be limited by the lpg tank underneath when off road.
I have quite good mechanical skills (diesel mechanic) so I should be able to diy most things.
it wont be my daily drive
I know there are many things to consider but any good all round advice on what to be aware of would be much appreciated.
Cheers

[Touses]

Hi bloke. I currently have 6 diesels none as dual fuel.

The folk I do know that run it seem to have a mixed bag of experiences with it.

One would have it that it's the best thing since sliced bread and the other is less than impressed!

This could have a lot to do with the quality of the system itself and the quality of the installation.

All I can then suggest is a big Google on different systems as it may well be a case of buyer beware.

Good luck with it!

[threedogs]

For towing I'd probably go a 4.5 Ti and remove the gas, unless its sequential injection.
A member here Bob gets great figures from his 4.5 petrol his is a manual though.
Also if towing you'll need to strengthen the rear Coil towers, Kits are available.
IMO the 3ltr DI is a tad weak for towing, even a tinnie, happy hunting though
The tanks do scrape but not often ,more to do with driver error than tank placement.
Tanks have a bash plate installed any way so it that , that will cop a beating

[Col.T]

G'day Doze.
Had a 4.2 non turbo diesel and now a 2008 model 3.0CRD.
Prefer the non turbo as you get the grunt at low revs.
Pulled a van at max load of 2.0 ton with both. No probs with either but again, although the turbo is excellent for highway use, prefer the 4.2 non turb.for all round use. Crawled up creek beds, rocks etc with both but for that type of use, not only prefer the non T. but consider the turbo is a load of crap, 3.0l or any other capacity. That's just me though because, again, I prefer the low grunt with manual throttle.
Had standard suspension on both and of course didn't set any records for rock hopping or mud bathing but if your missus is with you and she's like mine, you wont be going for records either. Mind you, the ladies do have some lovely points to make up for that don't they. Any mods you may do should be considered in relation to what you'll actually be doing rather that what others do and recommend.
Being a diesel mech. is a great bonus and I must say I'm a bit surprised you're even considering anything else.
At that starting price you'll need to be careful but your background should see you with something you'll thoroughly enjoy.
We've loved ours and hope you do with yours.
Luck,
Col

[MB]

G'day Doze,

Definately agree with Col above.
4.2 diesel, even NA is a good option for descent torque and economically towing your tinny!
I think with your budget of 11k for GU03/04 model you're are going to struggle though mate.
Please do consider a GQ though, AB bought an immaculate one years back for under $10k I believe and saved for a Garret turbo years on, rocket ship now! Cheers good luck mate!

[Robo]

G'day Doze,

Definately agree with Col above.
4.2 diesel, even NA is a good option for descent torque and economically towing your tinny!
I think with your budget of 11k for GU03/04 model you're are going to struggle though mate.
Please do consider a GQ though, AB bought an immaculate one years back for under $10k I believe and saved for a Garret turbo years on, rocket ship now! Cheers good luck mate!

agree price etc above.
keep looking, the right one might just be around the corner when you least expect it !.
I looked for about 2 yrs for the last GQ, in very good condition and decent price.