Fotornr’s ‘18 Ram AEV Prospector XL 2500

TEXT BY JOHN PANGILINAN | IMAGES BY AJ VAN DE WATER

This capable truck can take on most terrain with ease. If it fits it can go.

If you’ve read the pages of Tread, are active on social media, or have attended any number of overland and automotive events, such as Overland Expo West, SEMA Show 2019, or the inaugural Toyo Tires Trailpass, then there’s a good chance you’ve either met AJ van de Water, seen his work, or come across one of his rigs. In fact, van de Water’s 4Runner graced the cover of our March/April ‘19 issue.

The professional photographer has created quite a name for himself in the industry by sharing images of his rig nestled in the most scenic of landscapes, providing his knowledge of both travel and photography, and giving an occasional glimpse into his personal life with images of his beautiful family via his Instagram account (@fotornr). His 4Runner was his first chosen rig for many adventures, but as he spent more time on the road away from his family, he came to the realization that he wanted more out of a truck. As their son was getting old enough to travel with him and his wife on trips, he wanted a vehicle that could provide more space, comfort, and power—a fullsize truck was the ideal candidate.

With quality suspension, this truck stays poised in the roughest environments.

”…HE WANTED A VEHICLE THAT COULD PROVIDE MORE SPACE, COMFORT, AND POWER—A FULLSIZE TRUCK WAS THE IDEAL CANDIDATE.”

Van de Water rarely leaves his mountain bike at home thanks to his 1up rack.

”NOW WITH A FEW TRIPS UNDER HIS BELT HE CAN CONFIDENTLY SAY THAT HE MADE THE RIGHT DECISION IN MOVING TO A FULLSIZE TRUCK FROM AN SUV, AS IT SUITS HIS CURRENT NEEDS.”

Nothing beats moments with family and making memories when spending time outdoors.

His checklist of requirements for a new rig included better fuel efficiency due to more miles on the road and ever-increasing gas prices, more power to tackle any terrain that he may encounter, and ample room inside for the family on their long treks. So the decision was made to part ways with his Internet-famous 4Runner and purchase a new RAM 2500 equipped with the American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) treatment. Fortunately for van de Water he found exactly what he was looking for sitting on the lot of Glendale Dodge Chrysler Jeep. Eureka! What he ended up with was a truck that was solid right out of the box and a turnkey solution. At first glance, van de Water thought, “Throw on a camper, some lights, and some special touches to the truck, and hit the road!”