This week, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with overlanding. We’re thrilled to showcase our biggest and most outrageous build to date—a 6x6 Ford F550 hunting rig that’s been meticulously outfitted to conquer the backcountry while providing all the comfort and tech you'd expect in a modern expedition vehicle. This build represents the ultimate combination of power, capability, and cutting-edge overland gear.

The Foundation: Ford F550 with a 6x6 Conversion

We started with a Ford F550—a platform already known for its impressive payload and off-road capabilities. To take things to the next level, we added a 6x6 conversion with a custom Bowen Customs rear bed. This transformation gives the F550 additional stability, traction, and versatility, making it an ideal base for a hunting rig that can carry heavy loads and navigate challenging terrain. With six-wheel drive, this beast is designed to excel in off-road environments where standard trucks simply can’t compete.

The Bowen Customs rear bed adds significant storage capacity, while also providing a solid foundation for the various components and gear we installed. This build isn’t just about power—it’s about taking advantage of every inch of space to create a vehicle that meets the demands of extended backcountry excursions.

The Lighting: Baja Designs for Maximum Visibility

Lighting is critical when you're out in the wild, especially in remote areas with no ambient light. For this build, we went all out with Baja Designs LP9 and S1 lights, along with Baja Designs XL lights for ditch lighting. These lights provide unparalleled illumination, allowing the driver to navigate safely through dark trails and dense woods. The LP9 lights offer a combination of high-speed spot lighting and a wide driving beam pattern, perfect for illuminating the road ahead and any obstacles on the sides.

The S1 lights are compact yet powerful, ideal for backup lighting or additional illumination when needed. With the combination of LP9, XL, and S1 lights, this rig is prepared for anything that might come its way in low-light conditions. The addition of multiple light sources ensures there are no blind spots, which is essential for both safety and successful hunting excursions.

The Power System: Garmin Tread and Redundant Power Options

To manage all of the electronic components, we installed a Garmin Tread system. This system is the nerve center of the rig, controlling everything from navigation to the lighting setup via Garmin Power Switches. The Garmin Tread is more than just a GPS; it's an all-in-one solution that integrates navigation, communication, and device control, allowing the driver to monitor and control every aspect of the build seamlessly.

We also integrated a Wolfbox full-time camera system for added visibility and safety. This system provides a constant view of the vehicle's surroundings, which is invaluable when maneuvering a rig this size through tight trails. The cameras can also record footage, providing a record of the journey or any potential incidents along the way.

To power all these systems, we installed a 3000-watt pure sine wave inverter. This inverter can power a wide range of devices, from kitchen appliances like an espresso machine to charging electronic equipment. The inverter is controlled via the Garmin Power Switch, making it easy to manage power consumption and turn devices on or off as needed.

Interior Upgrades: Comfort and Quiet for the Long Haul

For the interior, we focused on making the ride as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. One of the biggest upgrades was the installation of Hushmat throughout the entire cabin. Hushmat is a sound deadening material that significantly reduces road noise and vibration, creating a much quieter ride—essential when you’re traveling long distances on rough roads. This upgrade ensures that the driver and passengers can have clear conversations and enjoy music or podcasts without the constant drone of the engine or road noise.

Inside the cab, we also installed the Garmin Tread unit for navigation and control. This system is paired with front and rear cameras for better visibility, making it easier to maneuver such a large vehicle. The combination of cutting-edge tech and comfort-focused upgrades ensures that even long trips into the wilderness are comfortable and convenient.

Rear Bed and Storage Solutions: Organized and Ready for Adventure

The rear bed of this F550 is where a lot of the magic happens. We equipped the Bowen Customs rear bed with everything needed for a successful hunting expedition. This includes a ramp for the spare tire, making it easy to access in the event of a flat, as well as a transfer tank for additional fuel. The pumps for the transfer tank are mounted for easy access, ensuring that refueling is quick and hassle-free.

We also installed National Luna lights throughout all of the storage compartments. These lights can switch between white and red, offering a bright workspace when needed or preserving night vision when a softer light is preferred. Each compartment is also lined with carpeting, adding a layer of sound deadening and protecting the gear stored inside.

The 3000-watt inverter is accessible in the rear bed area, providing power to an outlet that can be used for everything from cooking appliances to power tools. With this setup, the F550 is more than just a hunting rig—it’s a fully equipped mobile base camp that allows the user to stay out in the field for extended periods without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Versatility in Every Detail: Garmin Power Switch and More

One of the standout features of this build is the extensive use of the Garmin Power Switch system. This system allows the driver to control all of the electronic components, including lights and the inverter, directly from the Garmin Tread unit or even from a smartphone app. This level of control is particularly useful when setting up camp at night or when needing to quickly access lighting or power without leaving the cab.

The National Luna lights, Wolfbox camera system, and 3000-watt inverter are all integrated into the Garmin Power Switch, giving the driver complete control over every aspect of the rig. This redundancy and ease of use make the F550 an ideal vehicle for anyone who needs reliable, on-demand power and lighting while off the grid.

The Ultimate Hunting Rig: Built for the Wild

This 6x6 Ford F550 is the ultimate hunting rig. With four winches mounted on various points of the vehicle, there’s always a way to get unstuck or assist others on the trail. This build represents the pinnacle of what’s possible when you combine top-tier components, thoughtful design, and an uncompromising commitment to quality. Whether it’s the powerful Baja Designs lighting, the advanced Garmin Tread navigation and power control, or the meticulously crafted Bowen Customs rear bed, every element of this build is designed to perform at the highest level in the most demanding conditions.

For anyone looking to create their dream overland rig, this build stands as a testament to what’s possible. At Juniper Overland, we love pushing the limits and bringing our customers’ visions to life. If you have an idea for your next adventure rig, get in touch with us—we’d love to help make it a reality.