Matt Grably - Author

Matt Grabli – About The Author

Matt Grabli is a professional mechanic, experienced off-roader, writer and founder of Offroadium. Worked as a general automotive mechanic, parts specialist at Auto Zone, and aftermarket performance product consultant at Real Truck, before shifting focus to writing and digital content creation.

Matt Grabli and a Mercedes G class off road rig

My story

Like many, my passion for cars stems from my father. From a young age, I would linger with him in the garage, watching him fixing and maintaining cars into the late hours. Car magazines showcasing beautiful vehicles captivated me far more than books or cartoons ever could. This blossomed into an addiction where I would eagerly spend my pocket money on the latest issue of Car & Driver. This influenced my decision to pursue a career in automotive field.

Like many car enthusiasts in the early 2010s, “stance” and “street scene” dominated my interests, with websites like StanceNation and SpeedHunters as my biggest influences. However, after completing my street stance build, I realized my prized car, into which I had invested significant time and resources, was no longer fully drivable. The stiff suspension and inability to clear speed bumps limited where I could go, even road trips were unrealistic due to ride discomfort.

It was around then that I turned to off-road vehicles. Despite working with client trucks and Jeeps previously, I had not appreciated how well these vehicles aligned with my goals and lifestyle. They satisfied nearly everything on my wish list (except perhaps gas mileage) and opened new roads and destinations through enhanced capabilities versus the limitations of my previous build. I could apply my creativity, knowledge, and experience to improve drivability rather than hinder it.

This opened an exciting new world, from local camping to cross-state expeditions on scenic trails. Events like King of the Hammers and Overland Expo exposed me to the mature, side of automotive culture. My passion for vehicle modification, technical experience, writing skills, and interactions with owners of customized off-road rigs have inspired me to share my knowledge with like-minded enthusiasts on Offroadium.com

Matt's Posts

9
Lifted Ford Focus Overland project with a 3 inch lift

Lifted 2017 Ford Focus Overland Project — Surpassing Expectations

We all used to see big mighty rigs modified for off-roading with enough cargo space…

9
custom painted 1987 chevy v10 squarebody C/k truck

Lifted 1987 Chevy K10 / Silverado V10 – a Diamond in the Rough

The third-generation Chevrolet Silverado remained in production for almost two decades. During its production period,…

13
One Of a Kind Lifted Audi A4 B8 Allroad Overland Project

One Of a Kind Lifted Audi A4 B8 Allroad Overland Project

When everyone around you wants to make their rides lower and sportier-looking, but you want…

14
Staying Off The Paved Roads in A Modified 3rd Gen Subaru Forester

Off-road Modified 3rd Gen Subaru Forester SH with a 2.5″ Lift

As part of the third generation of Foresters introduced to the U.S. market, the 2009…

7
White 2003 Toyota Sequoia on ARB Old Man EMU 60020L Nitro Charger Shocks

Lifted 1st gen Toyota Sequoia on 34″s – The Land Cruiser’s Big American Brother

What could you do to modify the vehicle that is already perfect for off-roading? You…

10
Tacoma Long travel Ki by DirtKing fabrication

DIY Baja Style Toyota Tacoma Prerunner Built to Go Places

In our quest of finding unique off-road builds, we stumble across projects that are extremely…

8
Lifted 2004 Toyota 4Runner on 35s – Built for Wheeling in the Mountains

Lifted 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner on 34″ Tires – Perfect Example To Follow

The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV known for its reliability and outstanding off-road capabilities.…

7
Lifted Toyota FJ Cruiser pickup truck conversion

Toyota FJ Cruiser Pickup Truck Conversion – Why & How To Do It Right

The Toyota FJ Cruiser has cultivated a loyal following for its retro-inspired design and formidable…

8
Lifted Subaru Tribeca with an Off-road Attitude

The Big Subie – a Lifted Subaru Tribeca with an Off-road Attitude

When lack of cargo and passenger space is not an issue and maneuverability and ride…

6
Lifted 2019 Subaru Forester SK With A/T off-road tires

Subaru Forester SK Off Road Build With LP Aventure Lift

In 2018, when Subaru introduced the fifth-generation Forester for the 2019 model year, it created…