300 Series Build | RVSS Draw System | 200Ah Lithium Dual Battery | Simarine | Garmin - Part 4
Family Car Meets Touring Vehicle
Welcome back to the fourth episode of what we believe is Australia’s ultimate touring X everyday 300 Series build! In this episode, Josh is back again, expertly balancing two worlds—showcasing how the rear of the 300 Series Land Cruiser has been transformed from a family-friendly vehicle into the ideal weekend adventurer.
By day, Josh is a devoted dad and busy professional, managing family errands and driving his newborn to appointments. But come the weekend, he turns into an off-road enthusiast, navigating rugged trails in his fully outfitted Land Cruiser 300.
With innovative storage solutions and a comprehensive off-grid power setup, this rig is primed for any challenge your next adventure may bring. Let’s dive in!
To start, let’s explore how we transformed the rear of this 300 Series Land Cruiser from a people carrier into a versatile storage solution for epic getaways. Initially a 7-seater VX, the rear seats were removed as part of the JMACX GVM upgrade, leaving the 300 series with a spacious area perfect for our needs.
Josh opted for the RV Storage Solutions drawer system, the most practical solution for his family car. It accommodates everything from a pram during the week to a fridge for weekend adventures. On the right side, we installed a single deep drawer for ample storage. On the left, a travel slide designed to hold the fridge includes a pullout table with additional storage underneath.
During the week, the platform above the fridge provides a flat surface perfect for transporting work items and kids’ gear. For the weekend, Josh can easily remove the panel to quickly mount the fridge.
The fridge can stay in full-time, while still allowing room for the pram—showing just how user-friendly this system is. Josh also opted for the sleek black finish, which blends perfectly with the vehicle’s interior.
Another advantage of the RV drawers is their full alloy construction, weighing under 100 kilos. This lightweight setup means more capacity for adventure gear, without sacrificing strength.
One of the standout features that helped Josh’s choose of RV Storage Solutions is their innovative framework, that allows us to mount Batteries underneath the draws.
Underneath the drawer system, we installed the Invicta Super Slim SNLSS12V200BT lithium battery 200ah Lithium Battery. This compact but powerful battery is designed to fit perfectly under the drawers and is capable of running a 3,000-watt inverter— Knowing your love for modern conveniences, we made sure you’d have enough capacity to run all your essential gear.
At only 26 kilos and 58 thick, the Invicta fits seamlessly, saving weight and space. And with Bluetooth monitoring, you can keep an eye on everything from your phone.
Invicta Super Slim Lithium Battery features:
Weight: Each battery weighs 26 kilograms, a bit more than traditional ones due to the metal casing and brackets.
Size: They're 58mm wide, so they fit easily under vehicle drawers.
Monitoring: You can track the battery’s status using Bluetooth on your phone or with gauges.
Installation: The metal casing makes them easy to install and more durable.
Power: You can fit two under the drawers, giving you 400Ah of power, which is great for off-grid setups, especially with a rooftop tent.
Warranty: 7 year Full Replacement Warranty
Basically, they’re compact, durable, and provide lots of power for off-grid adventures!
To ensure a reliable charging for all the battery, we installed the REDARC BCDC1240 Core Charger. Mounted discreetly on the back of the drawer system, this charger efficiently regulates power going into the lithium battery, ensuring optimal performance even in off-grid conditions.
The BCDC takes input from the car's alternator when it is driving to recharge the battery, or when it's parked up Josh can plug in a portable solar panel to keep it fully charged.
The BCDC Core is known for its reliability in harsh environments and is designed to charge lithium, AGM, and other battery types from both solar panels and the vehicle’s alternator. This guarantees that Josh’s battery remains charged no matter the situation—whether driving or camping in remote areas.
Monitoring Power: Simarine Pico Display
To keep an eye on the vehicle’s power usage, we paired the system with the Simarine Pico display, which allows Josh to monitor all electrical circuits in real-time. This advanced system tracks the performance of the fridge, lights, inverter, and other onboard electronics, providing detailed insights into power consumption.
The Simarine Pico also offers Bluetooth connectivity, enabling Josh to monitor and control the system directly from his phone. Whether on a weekend adventure or during day-to-day use, Josh can track power levels and ensure everything is running smoothly.
Smart Control with Garmin Power Switch
For even more flexibility, we installed a Garmin Power Switch Module. With six circuits connected, Josh can control everything from the fridge to the driving lights—all from his phone. It even syncs with apple car play and into the cars head unit.
This setup allows Josh to keep lights and other electronics running manageable by having a user friendly and reliable switching system.
Off-Grid Comfort: REDARC 2,000-Watt Inverter
For those who love their comforts, we added a RedArc 2000w Inverter, which allows Josh to power everything from an induction cooktop to a coffee machine directly from the back of the car. This inverter can even recharge the caravan’s battery if needed, making it the perfect off-grid companion.
With two GPO outlets on the front of the drawers, Josh can plug in almost any 240V appliance, ensuring all the conveniences of home are available, no matter how far off the grid he goes.
Air on Demand: ARB Compressor and Airbag Suspension
For added versatility, we installed an ARB Twin Air Compressor, which powers everything from inflating tires to inflatable pool toys. This compressor also works with the Airbag Man suspension system, allowing Josh to adjust the AirBag suspension on the go, ensuring a smooth ride on any terrain.
Ready for Any Adventure
The most impressive feature of this Landcruiser build is its versatility. Whether it’s tackling daily errands or heading off-road, this vehicle is ready for anything. And if Josh needs more power, the setup is ready to accommodate a second Invicta battery, boosting total capacity to 400Ah of lithium power.
What’s Next?
This build is still evolving. Future updates will showcase additional lighting and communication systems, as well as the installation of a second dual battery under the bonnet—perfect for those looking for a simpler setup without the need for a full drawer system.
Want to transform your 300 Series?
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own vehicle or considering upgrading your touring setup, the team at this Maroochydore workshop is ready to help. Reach out today, and they’ll help transform your ride into the ultimate off-grid touring machine.
Stay tuned for more updates on this build, and if you have any questions or want to learn more, feel free to ask in the comments below!
Watch the full video walkthrough on our YouTube channel for a detailed look at Josh’s build and he BEST Touring Everyday 300 Series Build in Australia - Episode 4
Our team of highly qualified and experienced auto electricians and mechanics specialise in 4wd and caravan upgrades. Book in your phone call now to discuss the best options for your next project
