2019 LAND ROVER DEFENDER TO CHALLENGE HILUX AND RANGER UTES

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MAY 2017
ISSUE NO.400
$9.95 (NZ $10.95)

V8 COLORADO 325 KW 6.2L LS3 BRUTE!

THE UTE HOLDEN SHOULD BE BUILDING!

DESERT DRIVES
FORD F-150 LAND ROVER
RAPTOR DISCOVERY
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contents
www.facebook.com/4x4aus www.4x4australia.com.au
MAY 2017

22 2017 DISCOVERY
We head to the American desert
for a Disco party.

EXTRA 25 PAGES

58
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TH 400TH ISSUE
38 years in the making
What a bumpy ride its been!

34
Holden Colorado
44
Tracking the
gets a V8 heart Rabbit Proof Fence
transplant. in a GU Patrol.
 NOW ON
TABLET
PAGE via 4X4 Australia app

1 5 8products
The latest
tried and tested
.
84
4cast
Even Fords
F-150 is reeled in
by emissions.
10 4WORD
12 LATEST NEWS FROM THE 4X4 WORLD
16 TRAVEL BULLETIN
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400th issue 400

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58 REMINISCING MEMORABLE 4X4 MOMENTS

4x4 Driven
22 FIRST DRIVE: 2017 LAND ROVER DISCOVERY

94
Driving Merc-
34
84
CUSTOM: LS3-POWERED HOLDEN COLORADO
DRIVEN: V8 F-150 V ECOBOOST V6 F-150
92 DRIVEN: 2017 FORD F-150 RAPTOR
Maybachs insane 94 DRIVEN: MERCEDES-MAYBACH G650
G650 Landaulet.
128 CUSTOM: CHALLENGE-READY GQ PATROL
186 SHED: 1994 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 300TDI
188 SHED: 2016 TOYOTA LC79 SINGLE-CAB

4x4 Explore
44 EXPLORE: RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WA
102 EXPLORE: CAPE YORK, QLD
112 EXPLORE: MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NSW
148 EXPLORE: PORT MACQUARIE, NSW

102 4x4 Gear

Exploring FNQs 136 EXPLAINED: TECH V TRADITION
Cape York 158 NEW STUFF ON THE MARKET
Peninsula.
162 EXPLAINED: EGR TECH
170 EXPLAINED: VEHICLE JACKS FOR 4X4s
176 TESTED: PRESSURE PERFECT TYRE INFLATION
178 TESTED: SEA TO SUMMIT NOMAD DUFFLE

4x4 Opinion
18 dirty work JOHN ROOTH
20 Tech Torque FRASER STRONACH
180 Bulldust DEAN MELLOR
182 Footloose RON MOON
Camp Cooking VIV MOON
112
184

Following the
mighty Bidgee to
The Score
the Murray. 190 ALL THE STATS, FIGURES AND
PRICES OF EVERY 4X4 YOU CAN BUY

Privacy notice on page 194

www.4x4australia.com.au 9

QUADRUPLE
TON
F
OUR hundred, not out. Its
a fair innings by anyones
standard and enough to put
any New Zealand cricket
team to shame.
In magazine terms its
exceptionally good, as printed
mags are generally on the decline
while online products blossom.
Weve been bucking the trend
for a while now and are happy
to report strong growth both in
print and online, which puts 4X4
Australia in a healthy position for
another 400 to come.
So youll forgive a little chest-
beating as we look back over the
last four decades of the magazine,
reminisce about the good
times and ask our past
editors about their
- 201
79
400
time at the helm. 19
Whats been
interesting as
we look back
is how
things have
changed,
not
just the 4x4
vehicles but
the gear we use
when we travel. There
was no need for solar panels,
power-packs and engine data
scanners in the early days, and
the closest thing to electronics
that Moonie ever took on a road
test was a two-way radio.
Something that has changed
massively is 4x4 utes. Those early
Hiluxes were about as basic as
they come, and they didnt get
any more refined for a long time.
They were strictly for government
departments and tradies who
didnt need comfort, safety and
capacity. Even 10 years ago 4x4
utes were still way behind the
10 www.4X4australia.com.au
4WORD
MATT RAUDONIKIS
wagons in these terms, and I
remember doing a test of all the
then-current dual-cabs and, with
no electronic traction control or
diff locks, they couldnt climb a
simple hill that a stock Pajero
and Prado had conquered just a
week earlier.
Nowadays, utes have five-star
safety, electronic traction aids
and semi-luxury models, and the
top-spec ones are selling for $70K.
Theyre the hottest market in 4x4
vehicles and the manufacturers
cant bring out new models fast
enough. It will be interesting
to see how new players to the
segment Mercedes-Benz, Jeep
and Land Rover go in the
next three years.
What the
7 manufacturers
arent giving
us are
performance
TH models. As the
market evolves
and new buyers
come to a segment
they may never have
looked at before, the
range needs to broaden.
You wont be able to buy a
new V8 Holden ute by the end of
the year, and therell be plenty of
blokes looking for an alternative.
They will look to 4x4 utes like
Colorado, Ranger and Hilux, but
baulk at the paltry diesel engines.
Once again were thankful the
aftermarket has come up with a
result, and were excited to see an
LS3-powered Colorado featured in
this issue (p34). Lets hope there
will be more to follow for Ford
and Toyota fans out there.
EDITORIAL
Editor Matt Raudonikis
Designer Jamie Burgess
Staff Journalist Tristan Tancredi
Editor-At-Large Ron Moon
Road-Test Editor Fraser Stronach
Sub-Editor Trent Giunco
Digital Bonnie Jacks, Brendan Watts
CONTRIBUTORS
Ellen Dewar, Nathan Duff, Dick Eussen, Dan Everett, Thomas Geiger, Ian
Glover, Simon Hammond, James Hill, Philip Lord, Dean Mellor, Trish Melody,
Viv Moon, Helmut Mueller, Bruce Newton, John Rooth, Russ Ryan, Dave
Savall, Justin Walker, Thomas Wielecki, Matt Williams, Matt Wood
ADVERTISING
Group Sales Manager Matt Rice (02) 9623 9706
Brand Sales Manager Peter Gatti (03) 9567 4226
NSW Agency Sales Max Kolomiiets (02) 8275 6486
NSW Agency Sales Aaron Whiteman (02) 9288 9123
VIC Agency Sales Andrea De Kauwe (03) 9567 4388
VIC Agency Sales Stephen Hughes (03) 9567 4320
QLD James Secher (07) 3245 5049
SA Nick Lenthall (08) 8212 6256
WA Emily Thompson 0408 516 176
Circulation Manager Stuart Jones
EXECUTIVE GROUP
General Manager Trader Digital Nigel Dearing
Group Finance Manager Richard Wein
Managing Editor Ged Bulmer
Bauer Trader Chief Executive Officer Keith Falconer
Bauer Media Chief Executive Officer Nick Chan
SUBSCRIPTIONS & BACK ISSUES
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(EST) Monday-Friday; Mail: Magshop, GPO Box 5252 Sydney NSW 2000
How To Contact 4X4 Ph: 03 9567 4268
Email: 4x4aus@bauer-media.com.au
Mail: Locked Bag 12 Oakleigh, Victoria 3166
4X4 AUSTRALIA MAGAZINE IS PROUDLY PRODUCED
AND PRINTED IN AUSTRALIA
Our vehicle testing is conducted at the
Melbourne 4x4 Training and Proving Ground, near Weribee, Victoria.
www.melbourne4x4.com.au
ISSN 0726-2418
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE
WE might like old 4x4 trucks here at 4X4
Australia, but were no strangers to new
technologies and we like to think were pretty
good at keeping up with the times. 4WDs are
constantly keeping us on our toes, after all.
To keep up with all the latest 4x4 info, head
to www.4x4australia.com.au. Its the best thing
to launch since freewheeling hubs.
RIGHT NOW
EXTRA GRIP IS WORTH GOLD
Thats why you fit Cooper tyres
Beware of tyres that imitate the Cooper look but are not built to perform
I
f you want more control on outback
roads, you need tyres with sharp,
square tread edges that dig down and
bite more during cornering on gravel,
loose dirt roads and dirt tracks. Check
before you buy.
Other tyres may look similar to Cooper
tyres, but most 4WD tyre brands make
only one all terrain tread either one with
a round edge or one with a sharp, square www.coopertires.com.au or call
edge. Meanwhile Cooper all terrain tyres 1300 549 187.
come in a choice of tread edges so you
can match your tyres to your driving. Feel
the difference from the first moment you
go off-road.
Generate a quote
Generate a quote for your vehicle and
find your closest Authorised Retailer at
Find Cooper Tires Aus on Facebook
 4cast
NEWS AND VIEWS
REBORN DEFENDER
THE 2019 LAND ROVER DEFENDER PICK-UP IS SET TO CHALLENGE THE
POPULAR TOYOTA HILUX AND FORD RANGER.
L
AND Rovers 2019
Defender pick-up is likely
to ditch a larger platform
for a mid-sized, one-tonne
design for the new model.
WORDS MATT RAUDNONIKIS
This will put it smack-
bang in the hot-selling 4x4
ute segment, along with
the volume-selling Toyota
Hilux and Ford Ranger, as
well as the new-to-the-scene
Mercedes-Benz X-Class and
Jeep Wrangler pick-up.
12 www.4x4australia.com.au
The launch of the new
Land Rover Discovery
heralds the first time in the
brands 69 year history that
all of its vehicles will ride
on a aluminium monocoque
chassis, and last year the
brand confirmed the next
Defender will follow suit.
This got us wondering about
how a new Defender could
be as versatile as it was on a
separate chassis and how, for
example, would you develop
one or two different ute
variants off the new platform.
It stands to reason that
the most likely result will
be a mid-sized ute on an all-
new chassis to compete in
the segment thats currently
dominated by the Toyota Hilux
and Ford Ranger.
Land Rover has split its
vehicles into three families
that fall under the Range
Rover, Discovery and (soon
to come back) Defender
nameplates. Range Rover
has four models under its
luxury-focused brand with the
Rangie, Range Rover Sport,
Evoque and the Velar.
The new Discovery joins
the Discovery Sport in the
family adventure-driven
group; while the Defender
should encompass a range of
functional and capable wagons

and utes as it has in the past.
We can see how the
Defender wagon/wagons will
develop on the aluminium
monocoque derived from that
under the Rangie and Disco,
but what about the ute? It
needs a chassis, right?
There has been a lot of
talk from JLR about all-
new models needing to
earn their keep, and that
the company cant afford
low volume or polarising
vehicles that dont carry their
weight. The Discovery is an
example of this, as its fresh
design is aimed to attract
a wider audience than the
controversial D3/4.
Mid-size, one-tonne 4x4
utes are in one of the fastest
growing segments in the
world. That is why Mercedes-
Benz is jumping in to the
category with its X-Class, and
the German brand is tipping
the segment could grow as
much as 30 per cent over the
next 10 years.
MID-SIZE, ONE-TONNE
4X4 UTES ARE IN ONE
OF THE FASTEST
GROWING SEGMENTS
IN THE WORLD
Even in the USA where
mid-size utes have struggled
to compete with full-size pick-
ups, there has been resurgence
in the class from the Toyota
Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado
and GMC Canyon. Ford USA
has also announced it will be
taking the Ranger back to the
US in 2019.
On the other hand, more
truck-like, heavy-duty utes like
the old Defender 110 and 130
variants are going nowhere.
The Defender is gone, as
is the GU Patrol, while the
Land Cruiser 79 hangs on by
a thread as Toyota does all it
can to keep it ticking along.
Passenger-friendly, mid-sized
utes is where the market is at,
and it makes sense that this is
the future for the Defender if
it is to succeed.
We can expect to see the
new Defender towards the end
of 2018, and it will be very
interesting to see how Land
Rover performs in this highly
competitive segment.
www.4x4australia.com.au 1
13
 4cast
NEWS AND VIEWS

GRAND CHEROKEE
WORDS TRISTAN TANCREDI

TRAILHAWK LANDS
TRAILHAWK HEADLINES JEEPS FACELIFTED GRAND CHEROKEE RANGE.

J
EEP has launched its
updated Grand Cherokee
range in Australia, and
its headlined by the
arrival of the off-road-
focused Trailhawk.
The all-new Trailhawk,
priced from $74K, has the
same 3.0-litre turbo-diesel
V6 (184kW/570Nm) mated
to an eight-speed automatic
transmission as found in the
rest of the range. Thanks to
Jeeps Quadra-Drive II 4x4
system (which features an
electronic limited-slip rear
diff) and a Quadra-Lift air
suspension tune, the trail-
ready Jeep has improved
wheel articulation and a
ground clearance of 260mm
the highest clearance ever for
a Grand Cherokee.
The Trailhawks belly
is afforded protection via
four underbody skid plates,
while red front tow hooks,
a matte black bonnet decal,
and neutral grey mirrors
and grille give the 4x4 an
aesthetic boost.
The arrival of the new
Trailhawk model, with its
heightened off-road abilities,
is particularly exciting for
Australia, a nation whose
core values resonate strongly
with Jeeps love of freedom
and adventure, Jeep
Australia Director, Guillaume
Drelon, said.
Jeep has also updated the
rest of its Grand Cherokee
4x4 range, beginning with the
3.6-litre V6 Laredo (priced
from $52,500). While at the
other end of the spectrum is
the 6.4-litre V8 SRT (priced
from $91,000).
It is good news for 3.6-
litre Pentastar V6-powered
variants (Laredo and
Limited), as theyve been
injected with a power
increase to reach 213kW,
as well as a four per cent
fuel-economy improvement.
Drivetrain revisions also
include a new electric power
steering system and an Eco
Mode as part of the eight-
speed auto transmission.
Plus, a Gen II transmission
has been developed for 4x4
diesel variants.
Further changes to the
range include exterior
refreshments new grille,
headlamps, front fascia and
LED fogs. A new range of 18-
and 20-inch wheels are also
now available, as well as six
new exterior colours.
The Grand Cherokee range
introduces LaneSense Lane
Departure Warning Plus,
Parallel and Perpendicular
Park Assist, and a Rear
Trailer Hitch Camera View.
Towing capacity across the
board remains at 3500kg.
All 4x4 models (except the
SRT) now have Jeeps new
Off Road Pages installed
within the 8.4-inch Uconnect
touchscreen.
The updated Grand
Cherokee range is not only
more refined on-road and
more capable off-road,
weve bolstered its safety
credentials and made it
even better value for money,
Mr Drelon added.
All Jeep models are
covered by Jeeps There &
Back Guarantee. The
updated Grand Cherokee
range hit showrooms in
March, 2017.

PRICING
MODEL ENGINE POWER / TORQUE TRANSMISSION MSRP

Laredo 3.6-litre V6 213kW/347Nm 8AT, RWD $47,500

Laredo 3.6-litre V6 213kW/347Nm 8AT, 4x4 $52,500

Laredo 3.0-litre TDV6 184kW/570Nm 8AT, 4x4 $59,000

Limited 3.6-litre V6 213kW/347Nm 8AT, 4x4 $62,500

Limited 3.0-litre TDV6 184kW/570Nm 8AT, 4x4 $69,000

Trailhawk 3.0-litre TDV6 184kW/570Nm 8AT, 4x4 $74,000

Overland 3.0-litre TDV6 184kW/570Nm 8AT, 4x4 $80,000

SRT 6.4-litre V8 344kW/624Nm 8AT, 4x4 $91,000

14
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
 Valued at

$1449
Wifi
Enabled

Also available at all good

independent auto parts stores
4cast
NEWS AND EVENTS FROM THE BUSH

TRAVEL BULLETIN
RON AND VIV MOON DELIVER THE LATEST NEWS
AND INFO FROM AUSTRALIAS TREKS AND TRACKS.
MEGA MUSTER (VIC) Thousands of people from is $595 for
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Kilmore Scout Group in 2017. tropical setting of the banks transferring
sferring fuel from the in Australian country music,
Their aim is to break the of the Gregory River will drum to your vehicle. For pop and rock will be there.
world record for the largest enjoy a weekend of canoeing, more info, visit Headliners include Lee
gathering of 4WD vehicles at swimming, camping, fishing www.outbackfd.com.au Kernaghan, Missy Higgins,
one location (3530 vehicles is and partying. The majority James Reyne and Mark
the current record) to raise of paddlers are novices, MATARANKA NEVER NEVER Seymour. Itll be plenty of
funds for a much-needed but the serious competitors FESTIVAL (NT) fun. Pay a visit to
upgrade to their scout hall. are also catered for with The Mataranka Never Never www.bigredbash.com.au
Set for the weekend of April the opportunity to win Festival is on again this year
22-23 itll be a bit of fun with some major prize money. from May 19-21. There will HIKING WITH CAMELS (SA)
camping on the Saturday Come self-contained with be a lively gymkhana and Coward Springs Camel
night, kids entertainment, all camping and cooking campdraft, an action-packed Safaris, based at Coward
a food court, a band on equipment. Check out www. rodeo, a cricket match, plenty Springs on the Oodnadatta
the Saturday night, a swap northwestcanoeclub.org.au of live entertainment, a Track, are running two trips
meet and a whole lot more. family fun day, market stalls this year: June 28 to July 4,
For more info, search for FUEL AT CSRS WELL 23 (WA) and much more. Visit and July 12-18. The camels
4wdmegamuster on Facebook. Fuel deliveries at Well 23 on www.northernterritory.com are gentle, well-trained and
the CSR start in May, and very expressive. Everything is
CANOE RACE (QLD) Outback Fuel Distributors 2017 BIG RED BASH (QLD) supplied and the campfire-
The 42nd running of the require a minimum of six The Bash runs from July cooked food is exceptional.
Gregory River Canoe Race weeks warning of your ETA. 4-6, and if past events are For more info, visit www.
will take place on April 30. The cost per 200-litre drum anything to go by itll book cowardsprings.com.au
 X-RUNNER 4X4 AUTO
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Its been a century in the making. Your once in a lifetime chance to own a piece of history. The 100th year Limited Edition D-MAX X-RUNNER is here. Its packing a pumped up 3.0L turbo diesel
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AFTER MORE THAN 40 YEARS, ROOTHYS STILL LEARNING A
THING OR TWO ABOUT DIESEL ENGINES.
O
KAY, now if this gets too simple for
you, remember Im writing it for
me. And Im pretty simple when it
comes to high-tech stuff, so hang
on to your hammer and lets take a
look at how diesel engines work.
Ive got a feeling Editor Matt will
be laughing right about now. As an old
mechanic who still likes to play with the
tools he knows all this stuff, but I figure
there will be a few people out there who
could use a refresher. To be honest, even
though Ive been playing with diesels for
40 years, Im still learning things. All it
takes is to hang out with the experts for
a day or two. So last month we pulled the
engine out of a 61 Series Toyota to get
a sample of the last of the mechanical-
injection turbo-diesels Toyota produced.
Some people reckon its the best motor
the factory ever built, but Ill reserve my
decision on that until Milo 2 has done her
first million kilometres or so. Im doing
18
8 www.4X4australia.com.au
dirty work
JOHN ROOTH
what I did with the original Milo, mostly
because 10 years and 500,000km later its
still working really well.
The engine, gearbox and transfer have
been trucked down to Melbourne to
Terrain Tamer for a full rebuild. Terrain
Tamers exchange units use many parts spark. In a diesel, its exploded by the
developed over the years that are stronger
than stock to start with. You get that when
people all over the country are sending
you their tired and broken dungers lots
of experience at the pit face seeing what
works and what needs improving.
Before the motor left the Sunshine
Coast we plucked out two vital
components the fuel pump and the
turbocharger. These two bits are critical
to a diesels performance for a whole lot
of reasons. And just like the last time
a decade ago, Im taking them over to
MTQ Engine Systems, Australias largest
diesel fuel-injection specialists. This, by
the way, is what pretty much every diesel
workshop in the country does with these
components takes them to a specialist.
Before understanding why the fuel
pump is so critical we probably need
to recap how a diesel works. In a petrol
motor, the fuel air mix is exploded by a
high temperatures air can achieve when
its compressed. Thats why we need things
like glow plugs or pre-warmers to get this
temperature cycle working before the
pistons romp up that cylinder and squeeze
the living daylights out of the air. Then
right when the air has been squeezed
so much its hot enough to explode
something, the injector cracks open with a
blast of fuel.
That happens just before top dead
centre of the compression stroke which,
just like a big leg on a bicycle pedal,
means the biggest part of the energy
is expended forcing that piston down
again. It twists the crank and you know
the rest because you let the clutch out and
the whole plot shoots off down the road in
a series of explosions that are almost too
amazing to comprehend.
In order for the injector to squirt fuel into
an already highly compressed and
hot environment, the fuel pump If a worn spring or some
has to develop incredible pressure. hard-plating comes off one
This is typically at least 15,000psi, of those cam rollers, youve
roughly 500 times the pressure got big problems.
of a bicycle tyre. That sort of
pressure is enough to blast diesel
straight through your skin, which is why you
never muck around with diesel fuel lines
when theyre running. The old pluck lead and d
see which ones not firing thing that works so o
well for us bush mechanics on petrol enginess
just doesnt cut the mustard on diesels.
Milo 2s 12HT motor features an inline
injection pump, which these days is only
seen on heavy industrial engines, rural
plant-like harvesters and tractors, and big
trucks. The small diesel world has been
overtaken by rotary pumps and common rail-
injection which allow much greater power
and efficiency at higher engine revs. A lot
of that has to do with economy, not just the
economy of fuel consumption but
the economies of saving a few quid With the pump cleaned up
at the production level replacing its mounted on the bench
expensive mechanical bits with so MTQ expert Ronnie can
computers and all that jazz. do his thing.
And you get to see why when
you look inside a mechanical
inline-injection pump. Not only does it look
like a mini six-cylinder inline engine with a
cam shaft driving a series of pistons, it also
has to add or subtract fuel to each squirt
oh, how technical the Rooth does wax
depending on whether were climbing that
hill or coasting down the other side. As each
piston has a constant stroke volume, varying
fuel delivery is achieved by rotating the
cylinders to vary their injection volume.
Dont worry if that doesnt make sense.
What does make sense is when you see the
governor rod moving backwards and forwards
twisting all the cylinders at the same rate to
achieve some sort of consistency. Then you
spend another hour or so playing
with the governor and marvelling To check the pumps
at how it works. operation you need a few
Right, have we learnt anything? million bucks worth of
I have, if the pump plays up take computerised gear.
it to MTQ and pick it up a day
later. And then dont fret about
how much it cost because, by crikey, there
are some parts, effort and expertise required
to get it just right. Most of all, though,
knowing how many little, precise mechanical
components are rubbing themselves silly in
there is just one more reason to fit a good
fuel filter, use quality oil and always change
the oil filter.
Lubrication is everything and is also very
cheap insurance. Ill let you know how it goess
once weve got it all back together.

www.4X4australia.com.au 1
19

ELECTRONIC TRACTION CONTROL IS THE GIFT
THAT KEEPS ON GIVING.
D
ESPITE being the best thing to
happen to four-wheel drives for a
very long time, Electronic Traction
Control (ETC) wasnt originally
intended to be the four-wheel
drivers friend.
ETC came out of the push to make
vehicles safer and was a next-step
technology from anti-lock (or so-called
ABS) brakes. Once the ABS hardware,
namely the individual wheel-speed
sensors, was in place ETC merely
required software to do the opposite
thing to ABS that being to brake a
spinning wheel rather than release the
brake on a locked wheel.
ETC is simple in principle and, apart
from a means to apply an individual
wheel brake (rather than applying all
four wheel brakes at once), just needs
a conventional open differential to get
the job done.
Differentials, as found in both cars
and 4x4s, allow wheels on different sides
of the same axle to turn at different
speeds, which is required for the vehicle
to round a corner smoothly as the
outside wheel has to rotate faster than
the inside wheel to cover the longer
distance of the wider arc it is following.
Unfortunately, an open differential
also allows the power from the engine
to follow the path of least resistance.
If one of the wheels across an axle
has absolutely no traction and starts
to spin once the power is applied, the
differential will send all of the engine
power to that wheel. This wheel will
then keep spinning and will leave the
vehicle going nowhere.
However, if you apply the brake on
that spinning wheel, as ETC does, and
forcibly slow down that wheel, the
differential will automatically start to
feed the power to the other wheel where
there will be more traction, hopefully
sufficient enough to get the car moving
forward again.
Electronic Traction Control first
appeared on a 4x4 in Australia in 1993
courtesy of the Range Rover, in what
20 www.4X4australia.com.au
tech torque
FRASER STRONACH
turned out to be part of the last upgrade
to the first-generation Rangie. ETC was
extremely effective on that particular
Range Rover as there was an excellent
off-road chassis thanks to the generous
wheel travel afforded by its old-school
front and rear live axles for the ETC to
profit from.
At the other end of chassis design,
namely fully independent suspension,
ETC was also a game changer. Nowhere
is this better demonstrated than with
the Mitsubishi Pajero, which from
2000 on courtesy of the NM model
adopted monocoque construction and
fully independent suspension in place
of the separate-chassis, rear live-axle
design used on all previous Pajeros. In
doing so the Pajero instantly became
very ordinary in difficult off-road going.
However, two years later the Pajero
gained ETC and was transformed. It was
still prone to lifting wheels, sometimes
alarmingly so, but it would now get up
gnarly hills rather than failing at the
first difficult pinch.
Theres only so much ETC can do,
though. It just depends on the chassis
its working with and what its actually
asked to do. Notably, when asked to
control both inter-axle wheelspin and
cross-axle wheelspin things get difficult.
This was the case when ETC was was well demonstrated in the ranks
fitted to the Land Rover Discovery II in of soft-roaders, such as the Ford
1998, despite that generation Discovery Territory AWD and short-lived Holden
having front and rear live axles. When Adventra AWD. Both had three open
the ETC was fitted, Land Rover did diffs with ETC but struggled off-
away with the lever-operated mechanical road beyond the limitations of their
centre-diff lock. The lock was still in ground clearance and/or approach
place inside the diff case, but the case and departure-angle shortcomings.
top and shifter had been changed so the But, tellingly, another soft-roader of
lock couldnt be engaged. the time, the first-generation (E53)
Land Rover thought ETC could do BMW X5, was transformed off-road
both cross-axle and inter-axle control when BMW replaced the open centre
successfully, but had to reinstate the differential used initially with an
old arrangement where the driver could electronically controlled self-locking
manually lock the centre differential centre differential, leaving ETC just to
following poor press reviews and look after cross-axle duties.
complaints from owners. ETC has, of course, come a long
The problem of ETC trying to cover way since the 1990s, even allowing
both inter-axle and cross-axle duties the driver to select specific operating
protocols for various off-road
situations Land Rovers Terrain
Response technology being the
original and best example.
More recently and more simply
the new Toyota Hilux has one set of
traction-control protocols for on-road
driving and another set for off-road
driving that come into play as soon as
you engage 4WD. This off-road-
specific ETC, which Toyota calls
Active Traction Control (or A-TRC), is
so good it makes the rear differential
lock on the mid- and up-spec models
effectively redundant. In fact, youre
generally better off not using the
Hiluxs rear locker, as engaging it also
cancels the ETC on both axles.
FOE NOT FRIEND
W
HILE Electronic Traction
Control is the four-wheel
drivers friend, the associated
technology known as
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is
a hindrance off-road despite being a
potential lifesaver on-road.
ESC helps prevent skidding on
slippery roads by selectively applying
one or more of the individual wheel
brakes, or by cutting engine power,
or both. The trouble is this also slows
the vehicle down, and this isnt what
you want when driving off-road in soft
sand or deep mud where momentum
is your best friend.
ESC is triggered when it detects
the vehicle isnt heading in the
direction its being steered, which is
often the case in soft, loose sand or
deep mud, as the driver attempts to
correct the vehicle yawing from side
to side. In a worse-case situation the
ESC can become confused and just
say lets shut everything down and
will attempt to bring the vehicle to a
complete halt.
Thankfully, for sand and mud
driving, most fourbies have an ESC
Off switch that, at the very least, will
desensitise the ESC, if not disable it
altogether. Selecting low-range also
automatically disables ESC on many
four-wheel drives.
www.4X4australia.com.au 2
21
 drIven
078
2017 LAND ROVER
DISCOVERY

DISCO
PARTY
WORDS MATT RAUDONIKIS

The fifth-gen Disco has FIRST DRIVE

been geared to appeal to
more buyers by sacrificing
attributes that have made
the model popular. We
sampled it to see if it
succeeds.

L
AND Rovers all-new Discovery
promises higher levels of
equipment and refinement and a
model for all buyers from its 13
variant line-up. For the first time
in the nameplates long history
the Discovery will be offered with
a single-range transfer case, and
a two-speed transfer case will be
optional across most models.
Land Rover has always sold the
Discovery on its breadth of ability, the
fact it could be a luxury wagon, suburban
tourer and capable off-roader all in one.
The Discovery 3 and 4 filled that role like
no other 4x4, but for the fifth-gen model
the brand seeks to broaden its appeal to a
wider market and more global buyers.
The purposeful, functional and, lets
admit it, boxy styling of the D3 and D4
werent to everyones liking, and that was
the first thing the designers looked at
when putting pencil to paper on the new
model. That was a design that didnt
resonate with a lot of people, it was very
polarising, Land Rovers current head
of design, Gerry McGovern, said. All the
vehicles that we create now need to sell
a certain amount in order to create the
volume so we can get the investment back
and invest that in the future.
So the new Discovery had to have
more mass appeal and sit well within the
new Land Rover family, but the style of
vehicle presents some challenges.
When youre doing a vehicle this size,

22 www.4X4australia.com.au
www.4X4australia.com.au 2
23
 DRIVEN 2017 LAND ROVER DISCOVERY
THIS IS THE
NEW LAND
ROVER, SO
YOU HAD with seven full-size adults, that is a big
package, and to package that successfully
BETTER GET
and still make it look dramatic is a
difficult task, McGovern said.
So the new Discovery looks more generic
USED TO IT
in a Land Rover way, with closer ties to
the Range Rover, Rangie Sport and the
smaller Discovery Sport vehicles. This is
the new Land Rover, so youd better get
used to it.
In another first for the Discovery, the
new model rides on a monocoque chassis
made from aluminium. It shares this
platform with the Rangie and Rangie
Sport but, keeping more in line with its
off-road-capable usage, the suspension
components on the Discovery are steel and
not alloy as they are on the Rangies. The
use of lightweight alloys on the chassis
With the third row folded theres and body contribute to a weight saving
1137 litres of storage space. With of up to 480kg on some specification
them up theres only 258 litres. variants, mainly the four-cylinder engine
24
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
with single-range transfer case.
Yes, thats right, we said four-cylinder.
For the first time since the Series 1
Discovery a four-cylinder engine returns
and is expected to make up the bulk of
sales on the new model in Australia. Its
the latest version of Land Rovers 2.0-
litre Ingenium diesel engine and will be
available in two states of tune for the
Discovery. The base Td4 engine makes
132kW/430Nm, while the Sd4 puts out
a handy 177kW/500Nm. There is also a
traditional V6 diesel engine, which is an
evolution of the Lion TDV6 from Ford,
and it makes 190kW/600Nm. All engines
are backed by an eight-speed auto from
ZF, and there will be no petrol engine
offered in Australia.
Our first drive of the Series 5 Discovery
was limited to the Sd4 and Td6, both in
HSE Luxury trim, at the international
launch in the USA. The vehicles will go
 FIT OUT
YOUR 4X4
Commercial Deluxe Bull Bar $1380 WITH IRONMAN 4X4
Monster Winch from $
795
Side Steps and Rails $780
Rear Protection Tow Bar $975
Recovery Points $100
Drawers & Wing Kit $1620
Canvas Seat Covers F&R $700
ABS Canopy $2950
Air Force Snorkel $320
Blast LED Driving Lights each $
275
Suspension Upgrade from $
1362

Prices do not include freight or fitting and are subject to change without notice.

Find us on Fa

SAFER, STRONGER, SMARTER

facebook.com/Iron
4X4ASP(2)100317

Family Owned Australian Company

For your
Since 1958 nearest distributor call 1300 731 137 or visit www.ironman4x4.com
DRIVEN 2017 LAND ROVER DISCOVERY

WADING
DEPTH IS A
BEST-IN-CLASS
900MM

All rear seats can be controlled
electronically via the main
touchscreen or a smartphone app.
on sale in Australia in July these two
variants will be released first, while the
entry-level Td4 S models will land a couple
of months later. That Td4 S will represent an
approximately $4000 lower entry level for
the Discovery in Australia when it lands at
$65,960 in five-seat trim.
A two-speed transfer case will add $920 to
the price of your Disco. Also, a locking rear
differential adds $1080, Terrain Response
2 a further $2060 and height-adjustable
air suspension another $2060. So gearing
the Discovery up for all-terrain use adds
up pretty quickly, and theres an extensive
and complex list of options and packages
available to blow the cost way out.
The Td6 remains the choice for 4x4ers
looking for an adventure vehicle. The Sd4 is
nice and will probably suffice for 80 per cent
of buyers, particularly new buyers to the
nameplate, but loaded up and/or towing we
reckon the six is the go. All engines are rated
to haul a 3500kg braked trailer, but after
driving an unladen Sd4 on the highway we
reckon itll be slow going with a load.
The Sd4 is a sweet touring engine and
nice around town, its quiet and refined
from inside the cabin and responds well to
throttle inputs. It was only when overtaking
at highway speeds that it felt wanting and,
again, that was with just two passengers on
board. Fuel use is rated at 6.3L/100km.
The familiar Td6 engine responds well
to the lighter body and chassis of the new
model. It gets along with urge and purpose
and would cope much better with the
demands of loads and long-distance travel. It
is rated to 7.2L/100km consumption and the
fuel tank is a paltry 85 litres for the Td6 (77
litres for the four-pots).
Our test vehicles were both fitted with
two-speed transfer cases and all the off-
road hardware on offer. Terrain Response
2 adds an Auto mode to the existing modes
of Normal, Grass Gravel Snow, Mud & Ruts,
Sand, and Rock Crawl. The Auto mode reads
the terrain and driving style to select the
right mode for the conditions and take the
guesswork out of it. Its a system that makes
even the most inexperienced off-roader look
and feel like an expert.
The suspension is fully independent and
rides comfortably on the highway and sandy
desert tracks we sampled it over. The test
cars were fitted with 20-inch wheels, and it
looks as though the smallest offering from
Land Rover will be 19s. Tyre choices for
these 19s have a bit more sidewall height
than in the past, with both 235/65 and
255/60 19s available as per the Range Rover
Sport. We are yet to determine if a smaller-
diameter wheel rim can be fitted to give
better tyre choices.
With the suspension cranked up and low
range selected the Discovery fared well on a
tricky little rock-crawl course. The electronic
traction control and automatic centre and
rear diff locks are beautifully calibrated to
maintain traction and forward momentum.
Another huge plus over the previous models
is that with the suspension in the raised
position it now doesnt automatically drop
down until 80km/h, up from the previous
50km/h which was a real nuisance. Also, with
the suspension raised, the wading depth is a
best-in-class 900mm.
The new Discovery is a very different
vehicle than the one it replaces, yet it
retains the accommodating seven-seat cabin,
quality ride, high levels of refinement and
competent off-road ability the model is
known for. Its what McGovern calls
lifestyle enabling versatility, and when
you add these attributes to the wider range
of variants which will appeal more to
non-off-road users, the new Disco should
be a sales winner for Land Rover. Were
looking forward to driving it on familiar
Australian tracks later this year to get a
better feel for its abilities.

26 www.4X4australia.com.au
 FIT OUT
YOUR 4X4 $1380
WITH IRONMAN 4X4
Commercial Deluxe Bull Bar
Monster Winch from $
795
Side Steps and Rails $780
Rear Protection Tow Bar $975
Long Range Fuel Tank $885
Drawers & Wing Kit $1620
ABS Canopy $2950
Canvas Seat Covers F&R $700
HID Driving Lights each $
247.50
Suspension Upgrade from $
1406

Prices do not include freight or fitting and are subject to change without notice.

Find us on Fa

SAFER, STRONGER, SMARTER

facebook.com/Iron
4X4ASP(1)100317

Family Owned Australian Company

For your
Since 1958 nearest distributor call 1300 731 137 or visit www.ironman4x4.com
DRIVEN 2017 LAND ROVER DISCOVERY
DISCOVERY DECODED
LAND ROVERS NEW DISCOVERY COMES IN A RANGE OF MODELS WITH
DIFFERENT FEATURES AND COMPLEX OPTIONS LISTS. WE SORT OUT WHAT YOU
NEED TO GET DIRTY!
I
F YOURE looking for the
least expensive way to get
into the all-new Discovery
(effectively a Discovery 5
but just Discovery by name)
youll have to wait until late
2017 when the base-spec S
models arrive. If you want
something sooner, like mid-
year, the more expensive SE is
your entry point.
If youre prepared for the
end-of-year wait, prices for the
Discovery S start at $65,900
for the 132kW four-cylinder
Td4 engine in a white,
coil-spring five-seater with
28
8 www.4X4australia.com.au
manual-adjust cloth seats.
However, the Td4 engine
cant be had with dual-range
gearing at any specification
level, which limits its appeal
as a 4x4.
If you want dual-range
gearing and why wouldnt
you? youll at least need the
more powerful 177kW/500Nm
Sd4 Ingenium four-cylinder,
which starts at $71,560 in
the S. From there, dual-
range gearing is a relatively
inexpensive $920 option.
If youre planning serious
off-roading youll also need
WORDS FRASER STRONACH
the $1080 rear E-locker,
while height-adjustable air
suspension which provides
63mm more clearance (and
flatter on-road handing)
is another $2060. So thats
$75,620 before government
taxes and dealer charges to
get you into a new base-spec
Disco thats optimised for
off-road work. If you then
want maximum grunt in
that same vehicle then the
190kW/600Nm Td6 will be
another $7K, or $82,620 (plus
on-roads) in total.
If you dont wish to wait
Boxy styling of its
predecessor has
been replaced. It now
resembles a Disco Sport.
until years end for the less-
expensive S model and you
want an off-road-ready Disco
then the SE Sd4 is your entry
point. It starts at $83,450, plus
on-roads. Over the S, the SE
brings dual-range gearing
and the height-adjustable
suspension as standard,
but for max off-road attack
youll still need $1080 for
the rear E-locker. So thats
$84,530. From there you can
add another $7K for the Td6
engine to take it to $91,530.
At that point youre at a Disco
with max off-road ability and
 lines
Year trophy can be supplied upon
r objects and on plain backgrounds.
way. Ensure that the 4X4 Australia
all scale. When the 4X4 Australia of
trophy with the finalists and winner

100,000KM ROADSIDE SERVICE PRICE

WARRANTY ASSIST MENU

nes 14mm
be adhered to when publishing the
wo different colour options (above)
eral. When placing the logo, please The minimum logo size is
ckground to ensure legibility. Do not 14mm and NO smaller
y kind. Please adhere to the colours,
specifications illustrated below.
DRIVEN 2017 LAND ROVER DISCOVERY

InControl Touch Pro

infotainment system
is standard with
higher-end HSE and
HSE Luxury.

IF YOU WANT DUAL-RANGE RANGE AND PRICING

GEARING, YOULL NEED THE SD4 S

TD4

SD4

TD6
$65,960 / $71,560 (5-seat/7 seat)

$71,560 / $77,960

max on-road performance.
Aside from having dual-
range gearing and height-
adjustability as standard,
the SE also brings a fair bit
$78,560 / $84,960
Response 2 builds on the seater. Seven seats add $4540 SE
standard Terrain Response (more on lower-spec cars)
TD4 $77,050 / $81,590 (5-seat/7 seat)
system fitted to the S and SE while paint colours other than
SD4 $83,450 / $87,990
by giving the driver the option white also add more cost.
of an Auto mode where the If you have even more cash TD6 $90,450 / $94,990

of extra kit over the S. This
includes leather, electric seat
adjust, sat-nav, dual-zone
climate control, a better
sound system, rain-sensing
wipers, LED headlights with
DRLs, and pre-fitted towing
system will automatically
switch between the various
terrain modes such as Sand,
Rock Crawling and Mud.
As with the regular Terrain
Response system, Terrain
Response 2 also allows the
to throw around then theres HSE
plenty to spend on more TD4 $87,150 / $90,550 (5-seat/7 seat)
luxury and convenience SD4 $93,550 / $96,950
features of the more
TD6 $100,550 / $103,950
expensive HSE, HSE Luxury
HSE LUXURY
and First Edition models.
From there on is a mind- TD4 $100,950 / $104,350 (5-seat/7 seat)

equipment.
Over the S, the SE also
offers Terrain Response 2
as a $2060 option. Terrain
driver to manually select the boggling range of additional SD4 $107,350 / $110,750
various terrain modes. option packs, but you really TD6 $114,350 / $117,750
At this point with the SE wont do better in terms of FIRST EDITION
Td6 youre still in a white five- off-road ability.
TD6 $132,160

30 www.4X4australia.com.au

FREe AUSTRALIA-WIDE DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER $100*
RETURN-TO-CENTRE
STEeRING DAMPER
The award-winning RTC steering
damper is one of our best-selling
products. It helps keep the steering
centred no matter the terrain or road
surface. When compressed, the spring
pushes back to the neutral position.
When extended, the spring gently pulls
back to the neutral position. Makes
your vehicle more pleasurable to drive
and reduces driver fatigue.
$170 (Most Models)
TRED TRACTION RAMPS
The ultimate name in traction ramps!
Innovative TREDs are the best self-extraction
device regardless of price! Bogged vehicle?
No problem. Simply lay down a TRED ramp
in front of your tyres and drive up and out
to safety. With a designated shovel feature,
extreme hex grip nodules, aggressive ramp
entry teeth with amazing wear properties,
TREDs are the best! Made in Australia.
800mm $165 Pair
1100mm $199 Pair
BREATHE! IRONMAN
AIRFORCE SNORKELS
Ironman Airforce snorkel kits look and t
great! Increased forced air to your engine
for improved vehicle performance. Allows
less dust into your engine. High quality
polyethylene (LLPDE) and UV resistant.
In-built rain deector design to stop
water intake during heavy rain. Template
and tting instructions included. An
Ironman Airforce snorkel is an essential
accessory for the 4x4 enthusiast!
$320
 OUR WEBSITE IS INFORMATIVE AND EASY TO USE.  SHOP 24/7.
TOUGH DOG FOAM-CELl
SHOCKS
These shocks feature a larger 41mm
internal bore for heavy-duty use.
Provides more control than your regular
35mm bore product. In an extensive
19-page 4WD magazine torture and
comparison test, these Tough Dog
shocks collared the competition, and
were awarded 1st place in a line-up
that included Koni, Bilstein, Old Man
Emu, Ultimate, Raw and TJM.
$170 Each
BEST PUMP! DR AIR
PRO-FLOW
Winner of a gruelling 24-pump
comparison test! In the speed ination
test of eight tyres, the DR AIR PRO-FLOW
did the job in 25 mins and 30 secs.
Tyre size was 33x11.5x16. The DR AIR
PRO-FLOW did the job in excess of 8
mins faster than the TJM Portable, and
almost 2 mins faster than the Opposite
Lock Twin Tongue pump. ARBs CKMP12
pump did not nish. 5-Year warranty!
$299 - Includes Carry Bag
IRONMAN LOADPLUS
Ironman LoadPlus Helper Spring kits
really make a dierence. Progessive and
adjustable. Maximises vehicle payload.
Improves safety and stability. Economical.
Ideal for light commercial vehicles, 4x4s,
utes and vans. LoadPlus is the most
economical leaf spring upgrade available,
and yet is extremely eective. Can be
easily tted (or removed) at home with
basic equipment.
$135 Pair (does both springs)
 1300 004 931
RANCHO RS9000XL
RIDE-ADJUSTABLE SHOCKS
The USA-made RS9000XL is a virtual
satisfaction guarantee. An external
9-position ride-adjustment knob allows the
best of all worlds, no matter the terrain.
How good are they? In an extensive shock
absorber comparison test conducted
by esteemed oroad and adventure in the industry, and then provide it at
publishers - Overland Journal, Rancho
RS9000XL shocks outperformed Bilstein,
Fox, Old Man Emu and Icon VD units.
$198 - $220 Each
RULE BREAKER!
Ironmans Monster winch range is a
rule-breaker. Their component specication
and build-quality is worthy of world-class
recognition. Unprecedented design
features ensure maximum reliability and
long-term performance. Includes remote
motor breather and hose, competition-style
solenoid, premium motor and gearbox
sealing, and a combination wireless or
plug-in controller with in-built LED.
From $795
HARDCORE GEAR
Patrol bolt-in design drop-boxes
$386 Pair. Patrol radius arm spacers
$79 Pair. Heavy-duty extended lift
shackles $240 Pair. Extended brake
lines from $120 Pair. Navara D21/D22
idler arm brace $85. Patrol extended/
adjustable swaybar links $132 Pair.
80/105-series Landcruiser adjustable dropped draglink $250. Patrol HD rear
panhard rods $240 Front $230 Rear.
KUN26 Hilux di drop kit $175. Hilux Pair. Patrol HD rear lower +11mm or
tailshaft spacer 40mm $120 25mm $95.
RANCHO RS5000 SHOCKS
Take more than 60 years of experience,
feature precision build-quality likened
to that in micro-surgery, add true
velocity-sensitive (self-adjusting) valving
that responds to road conditions
instantly, back it with the best warranty
a price that makes some other brands
look like a rip-o. Made in USA. Long-
travel/customiser lengths also available.
$140 Each
AIRBAG MAN AIRBAGS
Comfort-ride suspensions cant carry heavy
loads. Heavy-duty springs ride rough
when the vehicle is unloaded. Airbag Man
airbags allow you to tune your suspension
under all load and road conditions.
Simple installation. Good DIY instructions.
Australia-wide delivery. Kits are available
to suit either your factory suspension and
most raised applications. No loss of travel!
Suit Coil Springs from $295
Suit Leaf Springs from $825
DRAGLINKS, TIE-RODS,
CONTROL ARMS
D40 Navara, KUN26 Hilux, FJ or Prado
upper adjustable control arms $899
Pair. Patrol whopping 38mm dia.
chromoly adjustable draglink with
damper bracket and over-size rod
ends $385 or get the Performance
version for just $295. Solid-axle Hilux
upper adjustable trailing arms $298
+16MM trailing arms $298 Pair.
 FREE AUSTRALIA-WIDE DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER $100*
AUSTRALIAS LEADING SUSPENSION SPECIALIST AUSsIE OWNED AND BASED

IRONMAN NITRO SHOCKS
A rugged all-round 4x4 performance
shock absorber. Suits both standard
and raised-height 4x4s. Delivers
superior ride control and comfort both
on and oroad. Improves stability
when towing or carrying a load. High-
quality materials such as German Fuchs
high-temp shock absorber uid and
Japanese NOK multi-lip seals are used.
3-year/60,000km Iron-clad warranty.
$110 Each
RANCHO RS5000-X SHOCKS
All-new RS5000-X shocks include Cross-
Tuned Technology - a unique valve design
that allows for increased control and
consistent ride prole with a larger shock
body. When hitting potholes, corrugations
or rocks, Ranchos Progressive Engagement
Valving allows for early ow of uid. If
needed, the Progressive Engagement Valving
will further engage to maintain control and
stability. A premium-quality all-rounder.
$180 Each
MOAB/RS5000-X FAST-FIT
STRUTS
Moab premium-design coil springs
integrated with the Rancho RS5000-X
struts to make a one-piece, fully-
assembled quick-t unit. You just buy
them and bolt them on! No more
struggling! Includes the RS5000-X
struts and Moab coil design of your
choice, upper spring seat and bearing
plate, bushes and mounting hardware.
Suit Hilux, Ranger and BT50.
$830 Pair
TOUGH DOG SUSPENSION
KITS
When Tough Dog release a new
suspension system, they buy a vehicle,
spend some time with it, and design
a kit from the ground up. Simon
Vella (senior engineer) develops
the kits based on four principles:
A practical increase in ride-height.
Better vehicle control in any given
situation. Long-term durability of all the
new components, and a better ride.
Available for a wide range of vehicles.

IRONMAN 4X4 SUSPENSION
KITS
With exceptional quality and extensively
researched and innovate designs,
Ironman 4x4 products are designed
and tested in Australia and distributed
in more than 120 countries. Whether
you use your 4x4 as a combination
family vehicle and getaway machine,
a dedicated oroad tourer, or in
industry, Ironman 4x4 delivers the
ride, comfort, control and safety
performance you need.
RANCHO/MOAB/ROCKCRAWLER
SUSPENSION KITS
Premium-quality with extensive options
and customisable features, Rancho/
Moab/Rockcrawler suspension
kits are a purchase you will be proud
of. With a speciality in the dual-cab
and ute market, including Crusier and
Patrol, as well as many iconic vintage
4WDs, these suspension kits look as
cool as they are tough. We have one
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 CUSTOM
078
HOLDEN LS3 COLORADO

WORDS DAN EVERETT PHOTOS MATT WILLIAMS

HOLDEN HAS KILLED OFF ITS V8 UTE,

SO KILLA CREATED THE 4X4 WEVE
ALWAYS WANTED FROM THE ONCE-
AUSTRALIAN CAR COMPANY.

34
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
www.4X4australia.com.au 3
35
CUSTOM HOLDEN LS3 COLORADO

Fox remote reservoir

coilovers help lift the
front-end by three inches.

THE HEART OF THE BEAST IS A

GENERAL MOTORS LS3 V8 ENGINE

A
USTRALIAN manufacturers just dont
Building sand castles, get it. Holden trots out special edition
with 340 horses at the Commodores with exotic engines that
rear wheels. push out supercar-like power, but when
it comes to 4x4 utes, it leaves product
planning to the work-experience kid.
Now, this isnt a stab at Holden per se, as
all the major players are guilty of it.
While were all fawning over the latest
Raptor or Ram, the top-spec Aussie
utes get little more than sticker kits
and plastic chrome if youre lucky you
might get tacky leather trim thrown in
and some fibreglass panels. Itll cost you
$10K extra for the privilege, and youre
still left with the exact same engine
and suspension as the base model. Were not alone in thinking
manufacturers have missed the mark either; although, in the
case of Tony from newly formed Killa Special Vehicles, hes got
the know-how to do something about it.
The vehicle youre looking at is essentially the prototype for a
business rarely seen in Australia, even less so in the 4x4 market.
A 340rwhp LS3-powered V8 Colorado that earns the moniker of
Z71 with an engine conversion the likes weve never seen before.
Ive been reading the magazine and always wondered why wont
Holden build this, Ford build that. Tony told us. I figured, why
cant we do it?
To kick-start the project Tony teamed up with Steve from
Killa Kustom Kables & Conversions and set to work. As nothing
like this had ever been done before, Tony purchased a statutory
write-off RG Colorado thatd allow Steve to slice his way through
sheetmetal and the electrical system to see if the conversion was

36 www.4X4australia.com.au
 LS3 V8 is normally
found in high-
performance HSVs.

1 2 3

1. Z71 refers to Chevs off-road suspension package,

but its cheaply applied to the blinged-up Colorado.
2. Interior remains stock, just as Holden sells it.
3. Mickey Thompson LTZs wrap 18in Fuel alloys.

www.4X4australia.com.au 3
37
CUSTOM HOLDEN LS3 COLORADO
1 2
THIS ISNT EXACTLY A
BACKYARD ENGINE CONVERSION
even viable. Physically getting it in the engine bay was the easy
part. With no commercially available adaptors and nothing but
blank stares when the topic of electrical integration came up,
the pair had their work cut out for them. After countless hours
spent on the project, and more than a little electrical wizardry,
the write-off was powered up and Tony was on the hunt for a
suitable replacement that would be a little more fitting of what
the team had in mind.
The heart of the beast is a General Motors LS3 V8 engine.
A 6.2-litre, 400hp+ lump normally found in high-end HSV
performance cars although, it has seen service in Corvettes
and Camaros. With around 580Nm available the torque is
comparable to the twin-turbo V8 diesel found in 200 Series
Land Cruisers, making it the perfect choice for the substantially
lighter Colorado. Its backed by a 6L80E, a fully electronic six-
speed automatic transmission thats seen duties in everything
from Cadillac CTS-Vs through to H2 Hummers and 2500HD
Silverados, so its more than up to the task of serious off-
roading or towing. The combination feeds power through a
38
8 www.4X4australia.com.au
3
secret squirrel adaptor with custom engine mounts, before the
standard Colorado transfer case sends drive to front and rear
diffs. This isnt exactly a backyard engine conversion.
Thats the easy part sorted from here Steve was tasked
with making the thing run. Those of you familiar with engine
conversions would know how much is involved in the simple side
of things, like turning the engine on and off with the key, turning
fuel pumps on, and making electronically controlled engines and
transmissions talk to each other. Even making factory gauges
work accurately is often enough to shelve most projects.
Steve and Tony took things one step further. Through what
Steve would only describe as CAN bus translators theyve
managed to fully integrate the new drivetrain into the
Colorados electrical system. That means all your standard
fare like speedo, tacho and all the other digital gauges work,
but so do some of the trickier things, too. You jump in it and
everything works like factory, Tony said. Hill-start assist still
comes up, downhill assist works. Even things like traction
control and climate control are all still fully functional. If
1. Two-piece mesh grille
with chain-link pattern.
2. 325kW LS3 was yanked
from an HSV GTS.
3. Black trim surrounds
otherwise standard lights.

www.4X4australia.com.au 3
39
 CUSTOM HOLDEN LS3 COLORADO

ITS GOT SUSPENSION THATLL SOAK UP

YOUR BEST BAJA 1000 IMPERSONATION
Holden was to release a Colorado with an LS3 heart, this is
exactly how it would function.
The plan wasnt just to offer engine conversions, but complete
turn-key performance packages thatd rival anything the factory
could offer. So, once the driveline was sorted the pair turned
their attention to what the rest of the vehicle would look like.
Hidden underneath the bright orange bodywork and oversized
flares is a full set of Fox 2.0 suspension. The front sits 75mm
higher with Fox remote reservoir coilovers, while the rear has
had a slight lift with extended shackles on the standard leaves
and Fox remote reservoir shocks. The result is a package that
has the comfort of a standard dual-cab family ute with the
off-road performance to handle corrugations, hard cornering 1. Fox remote reservoir
and more than a few jumps when the situation arises. The coilovers, front and back.
altitude adjustment has left enough room in the wheel arches 2. Fox suspension soaks up
for 305/70R18 Mickey Thompson ATZ P3 all-terrains wrapped bumps with aplomb.
around a set of 18-inch Fuel alloy wheels. 3. Bolt-on flares cover the
The rest of the Colorado remains reasonably standard, as big Mickey Ts.

1 2 3

40 www.4X4australia.com.au
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CUSTOM HOLDEN LS3 COLORADO

Whats in a
name?
L
S ENGINES have
become the go-to
engine conversion
in everything from
4x4s to purpose-built
track cars, and they
have an almost cult-like
following due to their
light weight, compact
design and explosive
power. In fact, if you
had to name just one
downside to the LS
platform itd be the
multitude of individual
names and how they
all appear to mean
absolutely nothing at
all. LS1, LSX, LSA, LS2,
LS9 there are around
40 different flavours of
LS engine ranging from
255hp 4.8-litre donks
right through to 650+hp
6.2-litre powerhouses
and thats without
even considering the
aftermarket options.
To help simplify it was always intended as a showpiece rather than a hardcore
things, well break it tourer. Its got enough grunt to win more than a few street
down. The LS platform races, and suspension thatll soak up your best Baja 1000
was the replacement
impersonation, all while maintaining the full suite of factory
for Chevys long-
running small-block. electronics and returning 14.0L/100km fuel figures.
When enough individual The Z71 was planned as a mid-tier offering, Tony said.
engine codes started Were aiming to have three different packages all based on
popping up people low-kilometre, year-or-two-old models for a similar price as a new
grouped them into the stock version. Each tier level will have its own engine package,
LS(X) category, but they
various trim levels and suspension ranging from better than
can be broken up into
three distinct families. stock through to desert-racing chase truck.
Gen III ranges The Colorado isnt the kind of custom four-wheel drive wed
from 1997-2008 and normally feature, but youll have to forgive us for getting more
includes the 5.7L LS1, Family ute is now a than a little excited about home-grown 4x4s with pants-
truck-based 6.0L LQ9 power-laden, suspension- tightening power.
and a host of other soaking workhorse.
engines that mean
nothing in Australia.
Gen IV ranges from
2007-2017 and brought
us the 6.0L LS2 and
6.2L LS3, as well as
the supercharged 6.2L
LSA and about 20 other
versions youll never
see here.
And 2014+ brought
us the Gen V that
includes a whole
bunch of Corvette
engines well never get
either. With Gen IVs
going down to 260hp,
4.8-litres and Gen III
going up to 345hp,
6.0-litres, dont try
and decode any of the
numbers they dont
make sense anyway.

42 www.4X4australia.com.au
 EXPLORE
078
RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WA

44
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
Fence
nce
Patrolol
Tracing the legendary Rabbit Proof
Fence in Nissans iconic Y61 Patrol.
WORDS BRUCE NEWTON PHOTOS THOMAS WIELECKI

www.4X4australia.com.au 4
45
EXPLORE RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WA
T
HIS is not the toughest test of a vehicle
youre going to read about in 4X4 Australia.
This story is not about taking the Y61 Patrol
to the limit of its capabilities in more than
2000km of driving, low range was engaged
for all of two minutes on two occasions. No,
this is about enjoying an old mate and doing
something its always been good at taking
us away from our urban lives on to roads less-
travelled and places seen less often.
Its as good a way as photographer and
inveterate explorer Thomas Wielecki and
I can think of to celebrate and farewell the
Y61 Patrol, an off-road icon killed off by more
stringent emissions restrictions its ZD30
3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine no
longer complies with. Sure, the Y62 is still
with us, but thats a luxury petrol V8 boat and
not the turbo-diesel workhorse the Y61 or
GU has been. Like the Y60 (GQ) was before
that, and so on right back to the G60 series
that became famous for being the first vehicle
to conquer the Simpson Desert.
Our plan for this drive is straightforward:
pick up our Patrol ST four-speed automatic
from Nissans Western Australian office in
Perth then head east until we intersect the
legendary Rabbit Proof Fence. Then turn
north to follow it as far as we can and for as
long as we can before the demands of modern,
urban life call us back to the big smoke.
46 www.4X4australia.com.au
Youve almost certainly heard of the Rabbit
Proof Fence, and most likely because of the
2002 film of the same name that traced the
journey of three young Aboriginal girls who
fled confinement near Perth and followed the
fence to their home in the Outback. In fact,
those three girls followed all three fences
during their epic trek. They first hit upon
number three, the shortest of the fences
that runs east-west from Yalgoo to the coast
at Kalbarri. Then they walked for a short
distance along number two which runs from
the south coast at beautiful Bremer Bay to
its junction with number one west of Wiluna.
Then they followed number one, the original
and longest of them all at 1834km. It runs
from Esperance in the south to Eighty Mile
Beach on the north coast.
As the name suggests, the fences were
built to hold back the tsunami of wild rabbits
surging across the Nullarbor from the east.
Construction of the first fence started in 1901
and by the time the project was finished in
1905 the rabbits had already got past it. So,
Rabbit Proof Fence number two was built and
then number three as the WA government
fought a losing battle against Australias most
populous and damaging introduced vermin.
The effort, the privations, the hard-manual
labour of the men who built the fences cannot
be underestimated. Much was carved through
Following tortuous
manual labour... the
Y61 Patrol was born.
virgin bush, and a trench had to be dug to bury
the fences distinctive hexagonal wire to prevent
pests from burrowing underneath. Jam tree and
Mulga were used for posts because white ants
dont eat them, and reinforced iron gates were
installed at appropriate farms and public roads.
Our starting point is Cunderdin, the wheatbelt
town on the Great Eastern Highway that was
headquarters for the construction of fence
number two. These days, passers-by on the
way to Kalgoorlie or Perth probably best know
it for the unexpected sight of an Ettamogah
Pub in the main street. Its also the home of a
determined group of locals at the Cunderdin
Historical Society who have been campaigning
for more than a decade to have the fence
officially commemorated. They have a plan,
they have enthusiasm, they have belief, they
have official support, but they have gained no
financial backing from the state government.
An ambitious strategy to mark the various
fences with a series of sculptures by Irish-born
WA artist Charlie Smith across many shires
and towns has proven too much for this small,
elderly group. But their leader, Allan Rogers,
is a determined man who has farmed along
the fence his entire life. Now in his 80s, even
though he struggles to walk unaided, his desire
to celebrate the people and places of the Rabbit
Proof Fence remains undimmed.
Why did we take it up? he asks rhetorically.
It was a huge program; it took a lot of men and
lot of very ordinary hard work in isolated places.
They had to cut the wooden posts out of
the bushland that hadnt been taken up for
agriculture at the time. They had to erect the
fence, put the netting on and a single furrow
plow went along the entire fence to dig a trench
so the netting was buried at last six inches down
so the rabbits wouldnt dig under it. Thats why
AS TIME GOES
we thought something should
be done to commemorate it.
We drive with Allan south of
BY THE Y61
Cunderdin close to his family
properties where he shows
us an example of the original
fence. The original jam tree
PATROL MAKES
posts and hexagonal wire are
still in place, but steel stakes
have been added to support the
MORE AND
now rotting wood.
As a fence itself it is
unremarkable. But it is
MORE SENSE
remarkable to realise it is more
than 100 years old, and when
it was constructed none of the
surrounding farmland existed.
Allan also shows us an original 112-year-old
gate, with its distinct angled support at the top.
Its impressively engineered and as solid as the
day it was built.
They were all built like that, he explains.
The tracks dont always run
parallel to the Rabbit Proof
Fence, so it takes careful
planning, assistance from
the locals, as well as
occasional guesswork, to
stay on track.
www.4X4australia.com.au 4
47
EXPLORE RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WA
The support stopped them sagging. They
had to be close to the ground to stop the
rabbits digging underneath. They put them at
convenient distances so farmers could get to
the back of their farms.
We tell Allan of our plan to head north and
see what we find, and he is vague. There is a
10-mile gate and an 18-mile gate. But I dont
know what happens beyond that.
Time for us to find out. The map tells us
there is a Rabbit Proof Fence Rd North that
intersects with the highway, but we cannot
find it. Instead, we literally drive past a sign
that marks the spot where the fence once
crossed the highway. So, its back in the Patrol
and west until we find a road north. It takes
only five kilometres for us to intersect
THE PATROL
with the Three Mile Gate Road and we
know what that means. Sure enough, a
few kilometres east we reach a five-way
intersection. One finger board reads Rabbit
EDDIES AND
Proof Fence North. We are on our way.
Our Patrol is absolutely bog stock. Nissan
has slung us an extra spare tyre but thats
ROLLS AND
SOAKS UP THE
CORRUGATIONS
48
8 www.4X4australia.com.au
about all there is in the way of extras. Its
been a few years since Ive driven one and
initially the reunification has its issues. Its the
slowest vehicle I have driven in ages, it drops
gears on alarmingly shallow inclines and the
engine sounds like its tearing apart under
acceleration. It steers approximately, has a
massive turning circle and heavy low-speed
steering. But as time goes by under a cloudless
sky the Patrol makes more and more sense as
we cruise north, an orange plume coating its
rear-end and expanding into a huge dust cloud
behind us.
Sitting on a steady 2400rpm at 120km/h, the
long wheelbase Patrol eddies and rolls and
soaks up the corrugations on this long straight-
to-the-horizon dirt road, happily cruising in
fuel-saving rear-wheel drive. Its big, comfy
and provides a chilled comfort zone away from
the 35C temps outside.
We are following the tracks of the patrolmen
who maintained the fences for the first 50
years after they were built. These must have
been tough men, tending to their allotted
section of the fence alone for months at a time.
Riding horses, camels or bicycles, their job was Big and comfy cabin
to patch any holes, repair any damage caused by lacks most modern-
such things as fallen trees or fire, and make sure day niceties.
the locals were doing their part by closing the
gates after themselves.
There were very strict controls, explains
John Lynn, a third-generation farmer who owns
farms on either sides of the Rabbit Proof Fence
north of Cunderdin. You couldnt go through
the gate and leave it open or you would get
fined. It was illegal to bring a rabbit to this
[west] side, dead or alive. The patrolman had a
lot of powers.
John is a friendly, chatty bloke, who is happy
to take us to a well where a patrolman used to
camp in the old days. Its hidden away in a bush
reserve. Someone has long since thrown fence
wire down the hole.
John stands atop the water pipe that runs
alongside the fence here: See those trees down
there? Thats where Mums parents came and
settled and took up virgin territory in 1911.
They had ground both sides of the fence and

The Patrol took us to many

interesting places, including an
old mining tunnel infested with
micro bats (below left). The
only issue we had on the entire
trip was a solitary flat, and it
popped on bitumen (above left).

www.4X4australia.com.au 4
49
EXPLORE RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WA
WE ARE ONLY
600KM FROM
PERTH, BUT IT
it was patrolled once per week
by the patrolman. We are 20
miles out of town and they had
FEELS A MILLION
to have water every 20 miles so
they could make camp there.
My grandparents used to nick
water from the well. But not
MILES AWAY
when he was there.
Standing with John at dusk
on the water pipe its easy
to appreciate the beauty of
this place. A cooling breeze has brought the
temperature down, and the sunset is being
exaggerated by the smoke from burning off to
the west. The flies have gone. The wheatfields of
Johns farms surround us.
The morning brings a blazing sun, an endless
blue sky and a return to the road north. For
hour upon hour we seem stuck in a loop as
the red road runs arrow-straight from one far
distant crest to another. Within the vast valleys,
wheatfields stretch from horizon to horizon and
dust clouds mark where GPS-guided headers
are harvesting away.
Crossroads invariably bear the family names
of early settlers in the area Mason, Keogh,
Solomon, Lynn. Every now and then an original
gate reassures us we are on the right track, but
at times we have to divert away from the fence.
When the WA government decided in the 1950s
50 www.4X4australia.com.au
Rabbit Proof Fence two
runs from Bremer Bay
to west of Wiluna.
the fence was no longer worth maintaining it
offered the farmers the chance to buy it and
the chain-and-a-half (about 30 metres) of land
next to it. Most didnt opt to, but where they did
detours are required.
Each time we find our way back to the ribbon
of hexagonal wire. Then, near Dalwallinu, and
for no good reason, a signpost insists Rabbit
Proof Road North goes east. As we stand there
debating what to do, Keith Carter pulls up
in his Toyota Hilux and asks if he can help.
He confirms the sign is pointed in the wrong
direction, then explains we are lucky to be
seeing it at all.
I am on the local council and I dont know
why they havent thought about selling Rabbit
Proof Fence signs in Dalwallinu because it
wouldnt be two weeks pass that this sign up
here gets nicked.
Oh yeah, signs gone again, ring up again we
need a new sign.
Keiths a genial fellow. Wed intercepted him
on his way up the road to a farm shed to get
some parts for a header and we end up standing
at that intersection talking for 30 minutes. Then
we tag along to check out the original Rabbit
Proof Fence gate on his property.
Keiths parents shifted to their farm on the
fence in 1928 from the Victorian town of Sea
Lake. Hes lived his whole life next to it, but
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EXPLORE RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WA
TRAVEL PLANNER
THE majority of time following
Rabbit Proof Fence number two
will be spent on graded and
well-maintained gravel roads. At
times you have to be a detective
to stay in contact with the fence,
but thats part of the fun. In other
places its well sign-posted.
FUEL & SUPPLIES
There is no drama in this regard,
as sizeable country towns are
never too far away from the
route. We topped off every
morning to be safe. If you shop at
the IGA in Yalgoo make sure you
say hi to Raul and Ivonne for us.
Note: once away from the metro
area, Telstra is the only phone
network that consistently works.
GETTING THERE
We started from Perth because
thats where we collected our
Patrol, but if youre coming from
the east or north there are plenty
of alternative places to pick up
the fence. Remember, we only
followed fence two, but you could
follow one or three.
52 www.4X4australia.com.au
TRAVEL DISTANCES
Rabbit Proof Fence number two
is more than 1100km long, but
were not talking about severe
off-roading here. You wont be
able to follow all of it, as the
working sections are off-limits
to the public and other sections
have been resumed as farmland.
This gives you the opportunity
to explore interesting places like
the Big Bell ghost town near Cue.
MAPS
The quality of mapping of the
Rabbit Proof Fence varies
enormously. We ended up buying
plenty of different maps along
the route even then we had to
wing it a bit.
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
Late spring through to early
autumn.
RESTRICTIONS AND PERMITS
Working sections of the fence are
off-limits to the public, although
you can apply for a permit. We
got knocked back.
admits hes rarely thought about it.
Its just a name now really, he ponders. I dont
even know how long it kept the rabbits out for.
There is no doubt the fence is fading away. It has
been completely renewed in some places as time
invariably takes its toll, or it is crumbling into the
salt flats where no-one owns or cares about it. When
we cross the Great Northern Highway east of Wubin
there is a sign marking the grave of a worker who died
building the fence. Its a simple white cross and there
are no details. Back then this grave would have been a
lonely and isolated spot, now trucks and cars roar past
just metres away.
Finally, the ground is changing. We reach Yalgoo,
which describes itself as where the Outback begins.
Out here the bush is a stunted greyish green and we
are encountering wildlife on the roads big lizards,
kangaroos, emus and, yes, even rabbits. In the evening,
a massive mining site rears all lights ablaze out of the
bush. The next morning, we walk hunched through an
old mining tunnel infested with micro bats that flutter
through our hair as we disturb them.
We are only 600km from Perth but it feels a million
miles from that bustling metropolis. Some of the little
towns we go through seem energised while others are
struggling, rows of closed shops lining their long main
streets. Giant trucks roar through at all times of the
day and night. Every second vehicle on the road is a
crew-cab ute dressed with a set of flashing lights on
the roof and the signage of a contractor on the door.
Hardly extreme off-roading,
but the Patrol handled the
tracks with aplomb.
WWW.KMCWHEELS.COM
1 800 835484
EXPLORE RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WA

Helmets and hi-vis vests are commonplace. driving away does the uneasy feeling start to
At night, like worker bees returning to seep from me.

MANS BEST the hive, the utes and their occupants

congregate at the motels in the towns of Cue
This is a tough and harsh landscape,
searingly hot and baked hard. Damian

FRIEND
and Mount Magnet. Its in Mount Magnet Morrissey has lived out here all of his life;
where the Patrol has its only issue. We pull he is 62 and looks like he has been in the
up outside the pub looking for a place to oven too long. We find him on Pindathuna

Y
stay, only to hear the distinctive hiss of a Station, north of Yalgoo. Weve come here
OU know those ageing
deflating tyre. After hundreds of kays on because it seems to us that fences two
Labradors you see wandering
about the place. Not too dirt roads weve picked up a puncture on and three intersect somewhere on this
hurried, stopping for a sniff the bitumen just outside town. The change property. Time is running out and we want
here and there. They greet you is easily done and the next day in Yalgoo the to see it before we have to head for home.
with a happy, slightly goofy look helpful guys at the shire depot pump up our Damian is initially cautious and reserved,
and a wag of the tail. plugged reserve spare. suspicious of these city slickers who have
Our Y61 Patrol ST ended
The fence is still with us, but now its arrived unannounced at his isolated door
up reminding me of those
Labradors; so good-natured, officially maintained and that means its off on a Sunday afternoon. But he warms up,
relaxed and co-operative you limits. Now known as the state barrier fence confirms we are in the right vicinity and
couldnt help but end up loving it. and targeted at wild dogs and emus more points us along the track we need to follow
The first few minutes of our than rabbits, the signs say there are cameras, to get to the junction.
relationship didnt bode that well, there are fines and there are poison bates. It Pindathuna was once a busy station,
though. Still in big-city mode I
is regularly patrolled and, frustratingly for running many thousands of sheep. Now it
noted the lack of modern comfort
features, then I noticed the sheer us, it looks to be in perfect condition. looks neglected and a bit sad. Dilapidated
size of the thing and the weight Instead, we head off to explore Big Bell, and rusted machinery lays strewn about,
of its steering as we launched a ghost town that was built in the 1930s to and buildings are in a poor state of repair.
into the Perth metro traffic. support a gold mine that closed in 1955. At Despite good weather in the last few years
But the further we left the big its height, 850 people lived here. All thats Damian says wild dogs have impacted this
smoke behind in our mirrors the
left standing are the shell of a church and an property like the rabbits never did.
more the Patrol impressed. This
is where it belongs. Bowling imposing two-storey hotel. There have always been rabbits here,
along gravel country road at a As dusk closes in and night takes hold, he tells us as he rolls a cigarette. It was
steady 100-120km/h in the Patrol being in this place is unsettling. Thomas is built as a rabbit fence. But the rabbits had
is a great way to look out on the casting shadows on the wall with his lights got through by the time it was finished. Now
world, as it strolls along soaking and flash and Im waiting for a ghostly piano its used as an emu fence, but there are just
up the rough stuff.
to start playing or to catch a glimpse of a as many emus on the inside as the outside.
The big armchairs up front are
comfortable and theres an ocean ghostly figure flitting by. Not until we are They just breed up.
of room in the back to store
possessions and gear, as well as
an extra spare tyre.
Its by no means cutting edge
the ZD30 engine isnt what
youd call a superstar of power,
torque and refinement, and the
four-speed auto is an early and
frequent downshifter at any
suggestion of an incline.
Theres no doubt the new Y62
Patrol would provide a more
modern and chilled experience,
but with that big V8 engine
thirstily sucking PULP in the
mid-to-high teens per 100km,
even a 140-litre fuel tank sounds
a bit underdone.
The Y61, by contrast, has
a 125-litre tank and during
our 2000km-plus expedition
swallowed diesel at a friendlier
rate of around 11.0L/100km.
Thats certainly not cutting edge,
but it is acceptable.
Apart from a flat tyre, the big
fella never let us down. Firing up
on the first crank, negotiating
any challenge we threw at it
none were extreme, it must be
admitted and taking us to some
beautiful places in the middle
of absolutely nowhere. Lovable,
reliable and, on a dirt corner, you
can it get its tail wagging!

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 OUR PATROL HAS PROVEN TO BE THE MOST
RELIABLE AND LOYAL COMPANION
The biggest problem now is the dogs.
Before they came here we had thousands of
sheep roaming everywhere. People come up
here and say we are going to go out and shoot
those dogs. But you can drive around for six
months and not see one. But they are there
alright, you see their tracks.
Damians instructions are straightforward, but
we still manage to get lost following the wrong
track down the wrong fence line. The Patrols low
range is selected as we cross and re-cross a sandy
creek bed. This is no challenge, and the Nissan
almost sneers in contempt at the obstacle.
Eventually we find the junction. The well-
maintained fence number three runs west to the
coast, while fence number two heads north-east
to hook up with fence number one. Its a small
RABBIT PROOF FENCE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
FENCE 1
FENCE 2
FENCE 3
clearing in the scrub, nothing that special about
it really. Except for one thing, those three young
girls walking home would have passed through
here 85 years ago.
While they were headed north, its time for us
to return south. Their journey took two months;
we have driven two thirds of it in five days and
seen some incredible places and met some great
people. Our Patrol hasnt missed a beat and has
proven the most reliable and loyal companion.
There are parallels to be drawn. Like much of
the Rabbit Proof Fence, the Y61 Patrol is
officially past its used by date, but just like the
fence, it would be nice to think many Patrols will
survive for years to come. Renovated and
upgraded, both will hopefully continue to be an
important part of the Australian bush.
www.hemamaps.com
www.4X4australia.com.au 5
55
REACH YOUR

ARB Summit, the next generation of vehicle

protection systems for modern four wheel drives.
 SUMMIT.

ARB.COM.AU TEL. 1300 272 494

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38 years in the making

4
00 MAGAZINES across almost four
decades, its been a long and bumpy ride
for 4X4 Australia magazine just like
many of the expeditions the magazine has
been on. Join us, and some of the past editors
of the mag, as we look back at the fun, and not
so fun, times. Given ARB 4WD accessories has
also been in business as long and as one of
the few remaining companies to have appeared
in our first mags we welcome them along to
celebrate the milestone.

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4X4 EDITOR 1984 - 1986

SIMON HAMMOND

START YOUR ENGINES

I
HOW THE MAG WENT FROM GO-TO-WHOA!
TS 2017 and Im being thrown around a highly modified
Nissan Patrol Super Jeep as we traverse ice-covered
rivers and deep snow at the base of Icelands notorious
Eyjafjallajkull glacier/volcano. This was the very same
volcano that stopped the world back in 2010, disrupting
Northern Hemisphere air traffic for weeks.
Despite the spectacular scenery of glaciers, deep snow
and volcanoes, my mind wanders. Firstly to how the hell
anyone can advertise a Nissan Patrol Super Jeep. Its
either a Nissan or a Jeep! Then to the countless other jaw-
dropping places Ive been 4WDing since the first edition of the
monthly 4x4 magazine hit newsagents way back in the early 80s.
I recall the top secret SAS training track at Land Rovers
Solihul headquarters, where a handful of Australian writers
previewed the breakthrough Range Rover Vogue turbo-diesel in
1985. Its the most unforgiving track Ive ever driven.
I remember the Toyota test track way up on the slopes of
Japans sacred Mount Fuji in 1985. We were driving the amazing
new direct-injection turbo-diesel Land Cruiser 60 Series
through deep snow, before hopping on a plane and flying to
Cairns to trial it in the steaming tropics in the same 24 hours...

MA G LA UN CHED
M THE DA Y TH E
FRO CEE D
...Unfortunately I also recall convinced Lada to launch
the face of the Japanese its Niva 4x4 as an entry into

A LL TO EX
IT PUSHED US AND THE VEHICLES
Toyota engineer, waiting in class 8 with rally champion
anticipation on the opposite Geoff Portman at the wheel

side of a swollen Daintree
River as I drove his beloved car
into the water a little too fast.
I remember the unforgiving
beaches of Robe in South
Australia, the numerous
east-west crossings of the
Simpson Desert, the first
drive of Nissans Navara
through Mexico, the quicksand
of Tasmanias west coast,
and the 1985 season of the
National Off-Road Racing
Championships where I
and me in the navigators
seat. We ended up winning
the title.
Thats the thing about this
magazine. From the day we
launched, it pushed us all to
exceed limits of us and the
vehicles. It was the beginning
of the 4WD recreational
explosion of the early 80s, and
as a magazine we became the
catalyst for people to take
these machines to the country
for which they were designed.
LIMITS OF US
I was just 21 when we
launched and I had been filling
in for a derailed trucking writer
on a national newspaper. I was
an investigative news reporter,
but was asked to write the
column until they found a new
expert. Knowing nothing about
trucks I expanded it to light
commercial vehicles and added
a few 4WDs.
My friends and I thought
wed found Shangri-La as we
explored the Vic High Country
with the latest in 4WDs, tents,
swags, fridges, snatch straps
and winches. It was Christmas
every week as we drove hard all
day and settled beside blazing
campfires at night.
Then, when I heard
Newspress (later Syme
Magazines and then Bauer)
was looking for a new editor
to start a monthly recreational
4WD magazine, I dispatched
a letter from the post office
in Mansfield and much to my
surprise a seasoned motoring
writer by the name of Tim
Britten saw something in me
and gave me the job. To his
credit, Doug Hicks had built a
good quarterly mag called Off
Road Action and Newspress
Managing Editor Len Shaw
thought it was time to cash in
on the 80s boom with a monthly
mag about the lifestyle and the
vehicles.
I had to learn layouts,
editing, photography, managing
finances, marketing and
distribution, and also manage a
bunch of columnists.
In my youthful zeal I felt we
had no boundaries, blending a
mixture of centre-spread trek
notes for weekend warriors and
support for growing clubs.

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ARB has gone from an

idea and a driveway to a
successful global business.

THE ARB STORY

As the orders kept
coming in, ARBs
growth was rapid.

62 www.4X4australia.com.au
Tonys need for a quality
item was the beginning of
a wild off-road adventure.

4X4 EDITOR 2002 - 2009

DEAN MELLOR

STARTING OUT MAKING ROOF RACKS IN A DRIVEWAY, ARB IS NOW ONE OF THE

T
BIGGEST AND MOST RESPECTED 4WD ACCESSORY COMPANIES IN THE WORLD.

HE ARB story began in a typical Australian suburban
driveway in 1975, when company founder Anthony
(Tony) Ronald Brown returned to Melbourne from
a trip to Cape York in his old Land Rover, which
he had completely rebuilt and equipped with a
homemade roof rack.
In his travels Tony saw a lot of crook gear on
vehicles that was prone to failure, so once back in
Melbourne he decided to manufacture his own better
quality roof racks, which he sold direct to customers as well as to
a few local companies. This soon progressed to the manufacture
of tube bullbars.
What started Tony off was the people he met on the way, and
the trouble they were having with products, explained Tonys
brother and current ARB Managing Director, Andrew Brown.
At home, it was basically just roof racks, and Tony and I built a
bender. We had to bend square tubes, so we made a bender with
a big 12-foot bar on it, and we ran around it and bent the tube. We
didnt know how to weld, so the old man bought an arc welder for
us, an Abel 130 Amp arc welder, and we learnt how to weld... and
thats where it basically started.
Soon Tony was producing one or two racks a day, with part-
time help from brothers Andrew and Roger. Everything was
done by hand it would take half a day to paint a roof rack with
a brush but Tony had soon outgrown the space in his old mans
driveway, so at the start of 1976 he rented a 1000-square-foot
property in Olive Grove, Ringwood, and he hired the companys
first employee, John van den Eynden, on February 1, 1976.
John, a qualified boilermaker and automotive mechanic, would
eventually go on to become factory manager, and is still with ARB
to this day.
On July 1, 1977, ARB Engineering Pty Ltd was born, and the
company moved to new, larger premises at Molan St, Ringwood.
Thats when I started [with the company], Roger Brown said,
current ARB Chairman. I used to come in a few nights a week
and I used to paint roof racks. I just wanted to be a part of it...
The introduction of the diesel-powered BJ40 Land Cruiser in
the mid-70s saw big growth in the recreational four-wheel drive
market, and the flow-on effect for ARB was a rapid growth in
business. In fact, the Land Cruiser was the first vehicle for which
ARB developed a complete range of products, which included a
bullbar, roof rack, ladder, Gabriel shock absorbers, Cibie driving
lights and more.
The ARB range continued to expand and the company took on

THE LAND CRUISER WAS THE FIRST VEHICLE FOR WHICH

ARB DEVELOPED A COMPLETE RANGE OF PRODUCTS
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products including AVM hubs, Topkat canopies for utes, and Warn
winches, the latter a trusted brand that ARB still distributes in
From left to right: Roger Australia to this day.
Brown, John Van Den By 1981 ARB was ready to move once more, to new larger
Eynden and Anthony premises in Bayswater, having grown from the pairing of Tony
(Tony) Brown. Brown and John van den Eynden to around 24 full-time staff. It
was here that Tony Brown designed the companys first fabricated
upswept wing bar. This revolutionary bar offered the best
possible protection while also improving vehicle approach angle.
So successful was this design that it has since been copied by
countless bullbar manufacturers the world over, and it still sets
the standard for bullbar design.
Even in the early 1980s ARBs Australian distribution network
stretched right across the country, and by the end of 1986
the company had grown so quickly it had to move into a new
state-of-the-art design, manufacturing and retail premises in
Croydon, Victoria.
On the back of its domestic success ARB was keen to crack
the lucrative US market, but shipping large fabricated products
such as bullbars and roof racks to North America would be
prohibitively expensive. ARB needed a product that was of high
value, but not too big to ship. This product came in the form of
what was then called the Roberts Diff Lock, later named ARB
Air Locker. To continue on its rapid development and growth
trajectory, and to further the development of the Air Locker, ARB
needed more funds, so a decision was made to list the company on
the stock exchange, which took place in 1987.
The Air Locker proved hugely successful in the US and around

THE COMPANY GREW QUICKLY AND HAD TO MOVE TO A

NEW DESIGN, MANUFACTURING AND RETAIL PREMISES
ARB has long-supported Andy Brown, ARBs
off-road racing. Managing Director.

ARB 1975
TIMELINE
TONY BROWN BEGINS
MANUFACTURING ROOF
RACKS AND BULLBARS IN
FAMILY GARAGE.

64
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
the world, and it was the key in growing the companys export
business. Close to 40 per cent of ARBs business is now offshore.
A by-product of the Air Locker project was the development
of the ARB Air Compressor, which has gone on to become an
important piece of 4WD equipment in its own right, with a
new version developed and released to the market in 1996 that
could either be fitted to a vehicle or supplied in a portable carry
case. Today ARB manufactures several Vehicle Mounted and
Portable Air Compressor models, along with a range of associated
accessories available for purchase.
In 1988 ARB acquired the Old Man Emu (OME) suspension
business, which it already distributed throughout Australia.
Bringing OME into the fold has resulted in ARB becoming one of
the most advanced manufacturers of suspension systems in the
world, culminating in its latest BP-51 range of high-performance
aluminium extruded bypass shock absorbers, which was launched
to great acclaim in 2015.
For the past 20 years ARB has been designing, developing and
manufacturing its own range of ute canopies. The canopy has
become another really important segment of our sales, and the
1987
ARB BUYS THE ROBERTS DIFF
LOCK, WHICH IS RE-LAUNCHED
AS AIR LOCKER HERE AND IN
THE USA.
strength of the ute in Australia has been critical to that, Roger
Brown said.
Today ARB produces various canopy designs, as well as ute lids
and ute liners. The most recent addition to ARBs canopy range is
the Ascent Canopy, released in 2015, which is arguably the most
advanced canopy on the market, with fully integrated central
locking system, push-button window switches and a unique over-
rail design that provides a form fit with the vehicle.
One of ARBs newest products is the all-weather portable
fridge/freezer that can be secured to the back of a ute and
features a locking lid to keep its contents safe. The all-weather
60L fridge joins ARBs existing range of fridges, which are
available in 35L, 47L, 60L and 78L capacities, all of which were
developed in-house at ARBs HQ in Kilsyth, Victoria.
In fact, ARB is renowned for its in-house development, and the
company employs a team of engineers with expertise in a wide
range of fields covering fabricated products, mechanical products,
suspension systems, rotationally moulded plastic products,
electronics, and camping and recovery gear. Where viable, ARB
then manufactures these products in-house, either at its main
SA
MP
LE
ON
LY
America
bound
With the cost of
freighting a bullbar
too expensive, the Air
Locker helped get
ARB on the map in
the US.
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The win on Sunday, sell

on Monday mantra also
applied to Old Man Emu
suspension parts.

facility in Victoria, at one of its other Australian manufacturing

facilities, or at its wholly owned factory in Thailand.
Andrew Brown was keen to point out that ARB is willing to have
EVEN IF WERE NOT EXPERTS
a go at developing a range of new products in-house, regardless of
whether the company has the expertise or the specialists in the TO BEGIN WITH, WE INEVITABLY
END UP PRODUCING CLASS-
area. For example, when ARB decided to launch its first in-house-
developed fridge it didnt know much about fridges, but invested
the time and effort to learn and ended up producing what it

LEADING PRODUCTS
claims to be the best fridge on the market. Likewise, just a few
years ago ARB had no experience in manufacturing LED driving
lights, yet it charged its engineering team to research and learn
and ended up creating the entire round LED lighting category.
Were not afraid to have a crack at developing new products
in-house, Andrew Brown said. Even if were not experts to begin
with, we inevitably end up producing class-leading products.
ARB is quite unique in that it not only develops and
manufactures products, but also retails its products direct to the
public through a network of company-owned and independent
stores. Focusing on its core strengths has been the key to ARBs
astounding success over the past four decades, and will continue
to be so into the future.
In 40 years, weve stayed the same business. Weve been very
fortunate that the market for our products has grown, and weve
grown, but we manufacture, supply and distribute accessories ies for
4WD vehicles, and it hasnt changed, Roger Brown said.

1987
PUMP
TIMELINE

IT UP
ARB offers a range
of air compressors
ARB

in both portable and

ARB DESIGNS AND vehicle-mounted
MANUFACTURES ITS OWN 12V kits for different
AIR COMPRESSOR. applications.

66 www.4X4australia.com.au
 SA
The ARB ad that
appeared in the
first issue of MP
Australian Off-
Road Action back LE
in 1979. Off Road ON
Action went on
to become 4X4
LY
Australia.

1988
ARB TAKES ON THE OLD MAN
a new
man
With the acquisition
of Old Man Emu, ARB
expand into suspension
kits an area it still
EMU (OME) SUSPENSION has a large stake in.
BUSINESS AND CONTINUES
TO DEVELOP THE RANGE.

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4X4 EDITOR 1987 - 2001

RON MOON

RON REMINISCES

I
GEEZ, THIS 400TH ISSUE IS MAKING RON FEEL OLD!

FIRST wrote for the mag sometime in late 1986 when I had
been conscripted to head to Alice Springs and join an AAT
Kings trip to the Kimberley. Little did I know that would
begin a lifelong friendship with one of the Outbacks great
characters, the late Taffy Abbotts, and a continuing love
affair with the northwest of Western Australia, which we
had first visited eight years earlier. We ended up getting
bogged for three days in the AAT Kings UniMog as we
headed into the then almost unknown Bungle Bungles. Here
we met Malcolm Douglas, who had also just heard of the place
and was making a movie for his TV show.
By Issue 42 (July, 1987) we were regulars in the mag, with
destination pieces, tech stories and Vivs first how to cooking
article. I started at the mag as Editor (Issue 46) after delaying
the first day in the office because of a three-month trek to the
Kimberley the boss was broken-in quickly to my peregrinate
lifestyle. The day after I got back from up north I walked into the
office to what turned out to be a momentous occasion in four-
wheel-drive history, the launch of the mighty GQ Patrol onto the
Australian market.
My first road test for the mag wasnt too illustrious and only
remains in the memory because of all the stupid things I did. I
took a test car for a run down in the Otway Ranges. It happened
to be the Managing Directors car a Daihatsu Rocky and
I drowned it big time, filling it with sloppy mud and water.
To say the boss of Daihatsu was unimpressed was quite an
understatement! Still, I even owned up to it in the report well,
maybe a watered-down version of it.

TOP
April 1992, Issue 99 SELLER
Perhaps not the

T
shot of the car the
HE highest-selling mag (April 92, Issue 99) I had d under my manufacturers were
tenure also caused the most raucous. We had been een over to expecting when they
Robe in SA for an advertisers weekend when the staff of gave us the keys.
the mag got together with some of the industrys rys leading
g
players. After a bit of goading by some of the others, one of
the guys in an impeccable Range Rover hit a dune a little too hard. d
Launching off the crest the Rangie arced over in a graceful curve
and landed on its nose, where it stood teetering on n the brink. The
resultant pictures actually ended up on the cover, r, which were then
used by forces wanting to close the beaches of Robe to 4WDers.
I was summoned to Robe by NP&WS of SA to o explain the
situation, and luckily we had been in the Millicent
cent Dune Buggy
Club area and not on the beaches or nearby dunes,
unes, so the situation
was quickly diffused and we threw our effortss behind those helping
the fight for the tracks to remain open. Luckily
kily for 4WDers the
business people of Robe rallied to the causee and today the beaches
remain one of the great 4WD destinations in Australia.

1997
TIMELINE
ARB

THE FIRST ARB AIRBAG-COMPATIBLE

BULLBAR IS RELEASED AFTER
EXTENSIVE REAL-WORLD CRASH
TESTING, WITH MONASH UNIVERSITY.

68
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 July 1999, Issue 186
I
N 1998 I conceived the idea of the Outback Challenge
after having been to the Rainforest Challenge in
Malaysia, the Warn Ukraine Challenge and to Moab
rock-crawling events in the US. With the substantial
help of Sharyn Vanderhorst (my long-suffering deputy
editor) and her husband Paul, we had the first event up
and running in mid-1999. It proved to be the forerunner
for all the winch challenges that followed, and the OC still
continues under the capable guidance of Steve Tjepkema,
the winner of the 2001 event.

August 2001, Issue 221

A
FTER completing Issue 211 in August 2001 as
editor, the mag was about to move to Sydney and Id
been given a better offer of editor-at-large, which
would see me and Viv doing a bit more travelling.
Were still trying to crank the travelling up a
notch, but 7-9 months a year on the road each and every
year is still pretty good, I reckon. Still, its the friends Ive
made in the industry and on our travels that remain the
best thing about those early years and its something we
cherish. Theres nothing better than to meet friends and
old acquaintances and have a beer with them in the scrub.
Hopefully well be doing more of that in 2017!

1998
ARB DESIGNS AND
got it
covered
ARB creates canopies
capable of dealing with
Australian conditions,
MANUFACTURES offering security and
ITS OWN RANGE OF protection.
CANOPIES.
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4X4 EDITOR 1987 - 2001
RON MOON
ROCK N ROLL
I
HOW TO ROLL TWO CARS IN ONE WEEKEND.
T HAD started as any normal weekend where wed head off on
a road test this time with three V6-powered vehicles.
Somehow we had convinced ARB to lend us its recently built
pride and joy, a V6 Hilux. In fact, Peter Alderson, 4x4s long-
term advertising manager and a good friend of the bosses at
ARB, had pleaded with them for the loan. This was long before
Toyota brought out a Hilux V6, and ARBs impeccable vehicle
was powered by the V6 Holden Commodore engine. It had
been quite a coup for ARB, with Holden engineers working
with them to bring the concept to fruition and ARB bringing it to the
market place just a few months earlier.
The loan came with some strict provisos as they knew we were
heading for Robe, the adventure playground on the southeast coast
of South Australia. There was to be no driving the vehicle in any
saltwater, and it was to be kept clean and tidy for the duration. Well,
that was the plan. Trouble was that it didnt quite work out that way.
On the very first day on Long Beach that delightful sweep of
sand near Robe enthusiasm and vigour conspired against us
and Pete rolled it in quite spectacular fashion within the first five
minutes of hitting the beach. That made the three-way comparison
we had been planning a two-way battle.
The only straight panel on the vehicle was the canopy which
had come through completely unscathed, but the vehicle was still
drivable and so we used it as a recovery vehicle for the next three
days before driving it back to Melbourne.
2005
TIMELINE
ARB
ARB DEVELOPS ITS
OWN RANGE OF 4WD
RECOVERY GEAR.
70 www.4X4australia.com.au
That wasnt the end of the weekend debacle, though. A couple of
days later we were down in Little Dip Conservation Park when my
Deputy Editor, the late great Paul Harrington, had trouble getting
up a particular dune. He backed down while the rest of us stopped
at the base of the dune to watch the show. He gave it another go
to again come to a wheel-spinning stop on a particularly nasty and
narrow piece of the track with a sheer drop on one side.
As sand slipped away from under the outside back wheel we
all stood at the bottom transfixed by what we knew was going to
happen. Seconds later the 4Runner lurched to the rear as sand
washed away from the rear tyre. It squatted backwards and to the
side and, slowly (or seemingly so) rolled down the dune.
Stu Grant, 4x4s long-suffering photographer, had been in ARBs
Hilux when it had ended on its roof and now he crawled out of the
overturned Tojo thoroughly shaken and stirred.
Luckily no one was injured or even scratched, although prides
had been severely dented.
The two Toyotas bore similar scars, no windscreens, dinged roofs
and bent panels while parked in Beachport for lunch we had a
few bystanders wonder what the hell we had been doing. At 4X4
we test the vehicles pretty hard, mate, was the flippant answer.
Of course, that wasnt the end of it. I had to take the 4Runner
back to Toyota while Pete took the V6 Hilux back to ARB. I have
to say it was quite a while before I showed my face at either
establishment again.
LIFE
SAVER
Dont go spending a
fortune on a new fourbie
without first stocking
up on the appropriate
recovery gear.
2008
keep
your cool
Roughing it doesnt
mean you have to go
without the cream on top.
THE INNOVATIVE ARB Fridge/freezers make
FRIDGE/FREEZER IS sure that cream
doesnt sour.
INTRODUCED.

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4X4 EDITOR 2002 - 2009

DEAN MELLOR

WHAT A TRIP!
W
A ROLLER COASTER RIDE OF HIGHS, LOWS AND AMAZING EXPERIENCES.

OW! This year marks the eighth since I stepped
down as editor of 4X4 Australia, a position I
held for close to 100 of the magazines now 400
issues. So many memorable things happened in
that time and I was fortunate enough to travel
to so many fantastic off-roading destinations, all
around the world. Here are some highlights.
THE FUNNY THINGS
A MIX up at the printer saw several copies of the May 2005
issue of 4X4 Australia get bound up with a section from Ralph
magazine. A reader phoned me to tell me hed been busted by
his missus looking at women in their underwear.
Then there was the photo of Ron Moon stepping down from
a roof-top tent with no undies on. 4X4s art director noticed
the problem before the magazine went to print, so he photo-
shopped some undies. But it wasnt until we got the magazine
back from the printer that we noticed Rons reflection
in a lake in the foreground of
the shot was still sans briefs.
THE NOT-SO-FUNNY
I HAD only been the editor
for a few weeks when I
received an early morning call from my then Dep Ed Marcus
Craft who informed me that 4X4 Australias long-term test Toyota
LC79 Cab Chassis had been pinched from out the front of his
apartment. It wasnt a great start to the day, let alone my tenure
at the magazine. Nevertheless, Toyotas marketing manager
Mike Breen took it in his stride and rather than getting upset
he recalled a funny anecdote about the last time a Toyota press
vehicle had been stolen... twice. But thats a story for another day.
Another not-so-funny moment was when one of my journos
phoned me from a NSW state forest to tell me a top-of-the-range
Land Rover Discovery he was testing had caught fire. The good
news? The fire burnt through a radiator hose, spraying coolant
everywhere, so it self-extinguished.
THE DESTINATIONS
EDITING 4X4 Australia afforded me the opportunity to go
four-wheel driving all over the world. Despite having been
sandboarding in the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, camping
on Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, driving Lara
Crofts Defender in the UK and testing
tyres in Death Valley in the US, my
favourite destinations have always
been right here in
Australia.

2012 seeing
TIMELINE
TIMELINE

the light
Built to withstand the
harshest of conditions,
ARB
ARB

ARB offers an extensive

ARB INTENSITY LED range of lighting
DRIVING LIGHTS ARE options.
LAUNCHED.

72 www.4X4australia.com.au
 snapshot
Experiencing some
amazing global locations
is special, but Australia
still offers some of
the best spots of
anywhere in the
world.

The people
THE best thing about 4X4
Australia and four-wheel driving
in general is the people you
get to meet. The simple act of
getting off ones backside and
getting out there and travelling
domestically or internationally
means you meet the most
amazing people. I have forged
many, many lifelong friendships
through 4WDing, which is why
Ill always keep travelling.

2014
NEW ARB ASCENT
Covered
up
This feature-packed
canopy is the flagship
of the range, offering
premium design,
CANOPY RANGE IS usability and
LAUNCHED. comfort.

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UNCLE
SAM
Travelling the world
seems like a perk to
outsiders, until you have
to report on a Jeep
launch in less than
72 hours.

4X4 EDITOR 2010 - 2011

JUSTIN WALKER

DESK JOCKEY
I
JUSTIN WALKER LOVES THE OUTDOORS SO MUCH HE EDITED TWO
RECREATIONAL MAGS AT THE SAME TIME.
TS HARD to forget my time on 4X4 Australia. It was my spent more time than ever behind the desk, as opposed to being
first full-time journalism gig and I snuck in to 4X4 HQ in out in the bush exploring in a 4x4 my main passion that remains
2005 initially as sub-editor, with Deano as the boss back in to this day. I always used to grit my teeth a bit when I sent
those days. I loved (and still love) working on the mag. The some lucky contributor on an epic adventure, with the biggest
combo of a great editorial team, regular contributors, loyal teeth-grinding decision sending now-editor Matt Raudonikis on
advertisers and an off-road touring community that was what looked to be an amazing two weeks driving the Canning
seriously passionate about everything four-wheel driving Stock Route in a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. Really, though, those
saw me stay until 2011 (and now Im a freelancer). I spent decisions werent that hard, as I was just stoked to be producing
the last 18 months of my tenure as editor. what I reckon is still the best off-road touring mag in the country,
My time in the big chair at 4X4 was fantastic, if a bit with a top team of contributors to keep it all running smoothly.
tumultuous. At the same time I was also tackling the same role A highlight as editor includes a frantic (and crazy) three-day
at Australian Geographic Outdoor mag, which I still edit to this visit to the USA for the launch of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a
day, so it was pretty frantic (not helped by a staff issue and title vehicle that boosted the US off-road icons stature. The crazy
review meetings with publishers) but enjoyable at the same time. part? The entire 72 hours encompassed both the flight over, the
Funnily enough or rather, sadly being the editor meant I one-day/one-night drive experience, and then the flight back.

2015 shocked
TIMELINE
TIMELINE

Developed and
tested in-house by
ARBs Old Man Emu
engineers, these shocks
ARB
ARB

REVOLUTIONARY BP-51 BYPASS are designed to offer

HIGH-PERFORMANCE SHOCK ultimate comfort
ABSORBERS ARE BORN. and control.

74
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
March 2011, Issue 326
ANOTHER highlight was having the chance to be one of the
first Aussie journos to drive the then all-new Nissan Patrol.
It was a left-hand drive jobbie that was delivered under
darkness to Robbie Emmins 4X4 Training & Proving Ground
at Werribee, Victoria. Photographer Mark Watson and I flew
down for a day of testing the big bopper on the tough tracks.
It was a great exclusive at the time.

Great
memories
AMAZING trips, good
people and awesome
vehicles to test each
week aside, my
favourite memory as
editor of 4X4 Australia
was being a part of
a hugely passionate
community one that I
am still a part of today,
and that the magazine
still appreciates.

2016
going
the
distance
Increased strength,
THE FRONTIER LONG- weight reduction and a
RANGE POLYMER FUEL longer life whats
TANK IS LAUNCHED. not to like?

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CONTRIBUTOR
IAN GLOVER

PILGRIMS PROGRESS
OH, HOW OFF-ROADING HAS CHANGED SINCE THE GOOD OL DAYS.

RANGie
of choice
Early two-door Range
Rovers bucked the
part-time four-wheel
drive trend of other
mainstream 4WDs
at the time.

76 www.4X4australia.com.au

F
WH, RTM, PTO, LSD. What does any of that mean?
If the last one was changed to /s/d (pounds, shillings
and pence, avoiding any possible reference to the
psychedelic 60s) would that help? Back on February 14,
1966, when Australia changed from imperial currency
to dismal guernsey, recreational 4WDing here was in
its infancy it hadnt even graduated to pull-ups but
by the mid-70s it was burgeoning to become a major
outdoor activity. However, it was a vastly different scene
than it is today.
In mainstream 4WD vehicles, with the notable exception of the
two-door Range Rover released at the 1970 Paris Motor Show, all
were part-time four-wheel drive. Early Land Rovers, for example,
had three transmission sticks to play with. One was for 4WD
engagement, one was for low range, and the other was, of course,
the gearstick. From memory, they all had different coloured knobs
to avoid confusion.
Quickly supplanting the Land Rover as the vehicle of choice,
the Toyota Land Cruiser made do with two, with high and low
range being engaged with the same lever. However, engaging
low range took careful consideration because often youd have to
reverse for what seemed like miles (as distance was measured in
those days) to disengage it.
Often, the vehicles were fitted with permanently engaged
front axles, which had owners scrabbling to fit aftermarket FWHs
(free-wheeling hubs), supposedly to enjoy fuel savings created by
no permanent mechanical drag on the front axles. So youd see
drivers leap out before obstacles to engage the hubs, and repeat
BY THE MID-70s, FOUR-WHEEL DRIVING WAS
BURGEONING TO BECOME A MAJOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITY
60
SERIES
The venerable Cruiser
quickly became the go-to
off-roader within the
Australian market
after the Rangie.
the performance afterwards to switch back to Free, terrified that
if they remained in Engage theyd have axle splines flying all
over the place. An army mate of mine told me that ADF vehicles
fitted with FWHs were often left in locked to keep the axles
lubricated, and so I drove thousands of kays in my BJ40 with the
hubs engaged, never once standing on the side of the road with
my thumb out.
Driving long distances in these early vehicles quickly proved
theyd been designed for short-haul agricultural, military and
mining applications; not a comfortable private-owner touring
experience. An early 1980s twelve-hour trip from Sydney to
Enngonia (100km north of Bourke) in a four-cylinder diesel Land
Rover proved the point. Max speed, 80km/h. Air-con, two manually
operated dash vents. Seats, two flat cushions on metal bases.
Steering, non-assisted. Engine noise, deafening. A photographer
trying to treat a cold by constantly chewing stinking garlic pills,
as well as midsummer heat and a locust plague, added to the
glorious experience. Ah yes, those were the days.
Truck-derived suspension consisting of leaf springs and beam
axles contributed to the problem, designed for toughness and
longevity rather than ride quality. Independent suspension
companies quickly sprang up, using techniques like progressive
rate springs and multi-valved shock absorbers to civilise the ride.
After having an Old Man Emu aftermarket suspension fitted to
my 60 Series Cruiser in the early 80s, I swore it rode like a Range
Rover (almost).
Another factor was tyres. In the early days, there was very little
choice in 4WD tyres. Military-style bar treads were an option for
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MOBILE PHONES DIDNT EXIST, SO ONCE YOU

STRAPPED YOURSELF IN THE PEACE BEGAN
those who had absolutely no intention of driving long distances.
Jeep Service were another largely agricultural alternative, and
Toyotas came standard with 7.50x16 RTMs (Dunlop Road Trak
Majors), a tyre with such a distinctive on-road howl that you
could pick a Cruiser coming from blocks away. All were cross-ply
construction a quick Q&A around the rec room of the Shady
Rest 4WDers retirement home came up with the consensus that
the first 4WD radial was the 7.50x16 Olympic Steeltrek (Frank
Beaurepaires Olympic Tyre Company merged with Dunlop in
1980, so it probably appeared before then). All these tyres ran on
split-rim steel wheels, and it was the devils own job to break the
bead on these if you had a puncture. Farmers could lower a grader
blade on them, and some of us actually drove over the edge of the
tyres to get the flat off for repair.
Well-based 15-inch rims came next. By far the most popular
of these were the Sunraysia brand; designed, developed and
manufactured here in Australia by a bloke called Neville Harlow.
Initially, serious remote-area travellers steered clear, knowing
the chances of picking up replacement rubber in the sticks was
equally remote. But Outback tyre suppliers quickly started
stocking the new size, and practically everyone ran 15s in no time
at all. Choice of brands was pretty good, but they were all mainly
all-terrain patterns picked for good wear characteristics rather
than any particular feature there certainly wasnt the degree
of specialisation (mud grubbers, rock hoppers) we see today.
Magnesium alloy rims started appearing around the same time,
prompting spirited campfire debates of pros and cons. They were
certainly lighter, contributing to better unsprung weight, but if

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 OLD VS
NEW
Modern traction controls
have made average
drivers look good and
has somewhat levelled
the vehicle playing
field.

you bent one climbing rocks you couldnt hammer it back into knew what you were doing, PTO winches were great. By using the
shape as you could a steel rim. gears a variety of winching speeds were possible, but the winches
Serious 4WDers drove diesels. Not only were they less exposed were prone to breaking shear pins, and if your engine was kaput,
to engine failure than petrol engines during water crossings, but so was the winch. Probably for weight- and cost-saving reasons,
the extra engine braking afforded for steep descents was a major PTOs were dropped from manufacturing specs, bringing the
plus. Longer range a major consideration for true Outback electric winch to the prominence it enjoys today though some
tourers was another attraction. Autos archaic three-speeders aftermarket suppliers experimented with hydraulic and capstan
in the main were avoided because of a complete lack of engine winches along the way.
braking downhill, necessitating constant use of brakes (something Communication with the outside world was difficult. This was
thats avoided just as much today). a good thing. You could say to the office Im heading off to the
There were no disc brakes. All were drum types, meaning that desert for three weeks and wont be contactable. Mobile phones
after any half-serious water crossing, youd have to accelerate didnt exist, so once you strapped yourself in for the journey
away while depressing the brake pedal to dry things out. If you the peace began. The only means of comms were RFDS radios
didnt do this, thered be zero retardation when you next really Traeger systems that involved stopping, throwing an aerial over a
needed it which is less than ideal. relatively high tree branch, and fishing around for a frequency
Recovery equipment was limited to towropes and connection. Then came Codans (really complicated to
winches. Forget snatch straps; they didnt exist. No use) followed by sat-phones (which should be banned).
Dyneema ropes, either. Winches used wire ropes, and
in the very early days were PTO (power take-off)
TECH Even back in 1996 when I was leading the Land
Rover Calvert Centenary Expedition I was receiving,
Trekking along in
types. Because of their military and agricultural blistering heat or via sat-phone, faxed minutes of the board meetings
heritage, all early Cruisers (as an example) had PTO freezing temperatures back in Sydney as if I could do anything about it in
outlets coming out of the transfer case, and if you has been made easier the Gibson, Little Sandy and Great Sandy Deserts.
as has playing your
favourite podcast.

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Sat-phones were pretty primitive then, requiring setting up a dish

OIL VS which you rotated to pick up satellite signals. Unfortunately, its

now much easier.
LED Creature comforts like in-car entertainment were virtually
Modern tech has made nonexistent, AM-only radio offered all the sound quality of a
aspects of camping in the blowfly trapped in a pickle bottle, and there were no buttons to
sticks easier LED lights
push for station selection. Battling steering that had its own idea of
are a prime example
of how times have where the vehicle should be going, while fiddling with a dial to find
changed. a decent radio program, was a game of Russian roulette that Im
glad has long gone. And, of course, aftermarket suppliers sprang up
to fill a void. If you were flash (and flush enough) you could get a
decent radio with an integrated cassette player. The Pioneer system
I fitted to my BJ40 was the ducks guts, as we used to say. OE seats
obviously designed by greedy chiropractors were another suitable
case for treatment. Ed Mulligans Opposite Lock sold Aussie-
made Stratos seats, and not being able to afford the aristocrat of
automotive aftermarket seat Recaro I settled for Scheel seats
in the Cruiser. These made long-distance travel a far more civilised
experience, with plenty of lateral support and more padding.
Night driving was a dodgy experience with OE lighting.
Headlights were still measured in candle power, but it didnt
take too long to count the candles. In the early days, aftermarket
lighting came straight from rally cars, with French-made Cibi and
Marchal being the picks with little else to choose from though
a mate of mine settled for an aircraft landing light to help avoid
nocturnal grasshoppers. Lighting around the campfire was pretty
primitive as well. The BJ did offer a work-light that was hung under

IF YOU NEED ALL THE MOD-CONS YOU HAVE AT HOME,

WHY WASTE MONEY FOR A CHANGE OF SCENERY?

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 GPS VS
MAP
Fights over map-reading
competency are largely
a thing of the past
although the gender
battle continues
with the GPS.

the bonnet, but torches looked after the rest of night-time

navigation. Maglites and Dolphins were the favourites,
with head lamps only coming onto the scene in the late 80s.
An early convert, I tolerated the giggles and jokes about
being the resident Martian, but they wore thin very quickly,
and disappeared once everyone was wearing them. Camp
lighting was originally provided by kerosene lanterns, known
generically as Tilley lamps, named after John Tilley, the
Pommy inventor of the hydro-pneumatic blowpipe that
made the whole thing work. The lamps were pumped to
build up pressure in a reservoir, and then a mantle (made
of chemically treated silk or more commonly, rayon) was lit
and the lamp turned up to the required brightness. Once
theyd been lit, the mantles became extremely brittle, so a
holiday on the move required a stack of spares. Fitting a
new mantle was a fiddly, time-consuming process give me camp
LEDs every time. In our embryonic camping days of the 60s,
I remember the Tilley living on a specially fashioned hook
life
While a lot has changed,
suspended from the centre pole of the tent. some things stay the
And what a tent it was! Ex-army, big enough to house the same. The best part of
entire sixth division, the proper khaki colour, full canvas camping is sharing
throughout, it weighed a tonne... or at least was heavy good times with
enough to warrant my old man fitting heavy duty, load- great people.
bearing rear springs to the family Holden. Putting the damn
thing up was a full family affair, with a tween-age yours
truly always sent to crawl in under the spread-out monster
to locate and raise the centre pole. Character-building, I
suppose, or at least bicep-building. When it was raining,
my brother and I were told not to touch the walls of the
tent, which we did once of course, finding out that it makes
the canvas leak. Polyester and treated canvas tents were a
long way into the future, and, of course, there were no fly-
screened, fully mattressed swags at that time either. I guess
a lot of that came from a difference in attitude. I dont want
this to seem like a preamble to a living in a shoebox in the
middle of road routine, but our expectations of outdoor life
were vastly different.
In the late 70s me and a mate and his wife regularly
canoed the Macquarie River, using the then completely bush
camp area at Bruinbun as a base. While they and the recent
family addition luxuriated in an Andr Jamet, then the
absolute top end of tents, with a kitchen area, a change room
for Bubs and so on, I tossed down a rectangle of foam rubber
(uncovered) in the tray of the HJ45, chucking a sleeping bag
on top of it. My pillow consisted of the sleeping-bag cover
stuffed with my jeans, socks, a towel and anything else that
fell to hand. If it rained, I pulled up the ute tarp.
I was lucky my wife Sharon had similar Spartan ideas. On
all camping trips our digs consisted of a groundsheet, two
closed cell-foam mats and a doona; though we were seduced
by self-inflating mats when they came on the market. We

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changing
times
Packing for a weekend
off-road now requires
lots of planning dont
forget to put in those
solar panels!

AN INCREASING RELIANCE ON ELECTRONICS HAS MEANT

ITS IMPOSSIBLE TO FIX A 4X4 WHEN THINGS GO WRONG
packed a two-person tent in case it rained, but the thought of
airbeds, for example, never entered our heads. For my solo
trips, I still have a very basic swag with a thin mattress, but no
flyscreening. If it rains, I pull the canvas flaps over my head. Its
as close to an old-fashioned drovers swag as possible.
I heard the other day about a bloke who reckons he couldnt
go camping without solar panels and power packs, and realised
just how totally foreign our ideas of roughing it had become to
todays breed of 4WD traveller. But it poses the question that if
you need all the mod-cons you have at home, why waste money
for a change of scenery? If thats all you want, then hire a cabin
on the beach. The idea of having power so you dont miss out on
the latest ep of My Kitchen Drools contrasts strongly with the
practice of sitting around a campfire having a few scotches and
good conversation under the stars.
How else have things changed? Well, theres little doubt that
we had access to more places than are available now, and pay-as-
you-go 4WD parks can now be found all over the country. And to
return to the original topic, vehicles are totally different, with the
skill levels necessary to pilot those early 4WDs now completely
redundant as vehicles do all your thinking for you. In the old
days, to tackle, say, a really rough rocky slope, you had to pick the
right range (high or low), the right gear, the right line, and know
just how much throttle pressure youd need to avoid scrabbling
and loss of traction. Good four-wheel drivers could do it, crap
drivers came to grief. Differences in vehicle capability off-road
were marked, with Landies, Cruisers and Patrols being first
tier, and others like Pajeros, with very little rear-wheel droop,
definitely second tier.
Then along came traction control to blur not only those
differing vehicle capabilities, but to act as the great equaliser for
drivers (Im not suggesting little gutter-jumper SUVs can now
compete in the rough stuff with G-Wagens, so please dont write
in). I am saying that very mediocre drivers can now look like
experts. And thats a shame.
Increasing reliance on electronics has also meant its
impossible to work on vehicles to fix things when they go wrong.
Certainly, a good bush mechanic can rig up a replacement
suspension spring to get to the nearest town, but if its engine
failure youre buggered. And in the middle of a desert, 50km to
limp home just isnt enough. So its been a voyage of mixed
blessings. Didnt mean to finish up negatively, but before you
dismiss this as the ramblings of a grumpy old man, I was grumpy
in my 20s. You wouldnt have liked me then, either.

82 www.4X4australia.com.au
NEW

GRABBER

X3

GRABBER X3

Introducing the NEW

General Tire Grabber X3
An aggressive and good looking tyre engineered for
durability and exceptional off road performance.
The innovative tread is designed to handle all the
extremes of the Australian environment, allowing
you to drive with confidence.

SINCE 1915. GENERAL TIRE.

Current available sizes in Australia and New Zealand: LT265/70R17, LT275/70R18, For your nearest stockist visit www.generaltire.com.au
LT275/65R18, 33x12.5R15LT, 33x12.5R17LT, 35x12.5R15LT, 35x12.5R17LT
 drIven
078
V8 F-150 V
ECOBOOST V6 F-150

CAN THE NEW-AGE ECOBOOST V6 ENGINE IN

THE F-150 HOLD ITS OWN AGAINST THE OLD-
SCHOOL V8? WE LINE THEM UP TO FIND OUT.

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 SIX OUT &
WORDS MATT WOOD PHOTOS NATHAN DUFF AND MATT WOOD
F
ORDS EcoBoost badge doesnt exactly
conjure up flattering commentary from
Australian punters. For some it was the
Ecoboost four-cylinder engine that was
slotted between the guards of the now
defunct Falcon. For others its an option in
the current-model Mustang.
So when Ford decided to launch a range
of EcoBoost engines for its US-dominant
F-150, youd be forgiven for thinking the company
was on a hiding to nothing. For six decades the Effie
has had a tradition of bent-eight propulsion, and on
top of this the F-150 has been the highest-selling
vehicle in the US for nearly four decades.
Following its US launch the V6 EcoBoost was
nearly a flop, until Ford found a way of piping a
V8 burble into the cab via the Bose sound system.
Interestingly this worked, and the V6 engine has
become the most popular option in the States for
the all-aluminium-bodied F truck.
We grabbed the key fobs to a couple of the latest
petrol-fuelled examples of the F-150 4x4: one
powered by the five-litre Coyote V8; the other the
3.5-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6. The 2016 models
featured here both use Fords 6R80 automatic
transmission, but from 2017 EcoBoost-powered
trucks will get a 10-speed automatic.
Both of these trucks arrived via Harrison
F-Trucks and sport right-hand-drive conversions by
Melbourne-based VDC. Harrisons and VDC only
deal with Ford product, and VDC has Ford-approved
modification status.
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DRIVEN V8 F-150 V ECOBOOST V6 F-150

FORD F-150
KING RANCH V8
EIGHT-IRON SOUNDTRACK
NOTHING makes you grin as much as the rumble of the Coyote
under the bonnet of the V8 King Ranch Effie. The naturally
aspirated burble drifting from the exhaust tips quickly builds
to a satisfying crescendo when the right hoof is buried. Its an
addictive soundtrack.
The King Ranch badge gets you an entire cow herd of leather,
a massive sunroof, and a raft of driver-assist aids including
adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, trailer-sway
assist and hill-start assist.
A 360-degree camera displays a birds eye view of the trucks
surroundings when parking or squeezing into tight spaces the
display is made up of data picked by cameras dotted around
the truck. Given the dimensions of the F-Truck, its a very handy
feature both in town and out in the bush.

CHEATING IN REVERSE
FOR THOSE who arent real flash at reversing a trailer theres a
neat Pro Trailer Back Up Assist function that lets you program
where your trailer needs to be slotted in. The pick-up will
then automatically steer it into place, much like an auto-park
function (also included).
The 288kW five-litre V8 does its best work with the tacho
above 3500rpm, where it not only sounds hilarious, it hauls.
Peak power from the eight-iron is at 5750rpm and peak torque
(525Nm) is at 3850rpm. Kick the go pedal under load and the
five-litre emits a howl that sounds like Chewbacca being kicked
in the goolies.
Compared to its bigger Super Duty siblings the F-150 is a
whole lot more nimble on the open road the IFS front end and
leaf-sprung rear are still quite civilised when the truck is empty. Imposing or garish?
Yank styling may not
PLUSH YET BALLSY be to everyones taste.
CONSIDERING this is a more-than-$150K vehicle, its every bit

THE V8 SOUNDS LIKE

as cosseting as you expect for a truck. Payload is a fairly modest
850kg, especially considering the not-so-slight proportions of the
Ford, but braked towing capacity with a 70mm ball is 4000kg.
While these 4x4 pick-ups are pretty capable off-road, towing is
where these trucks excel.
We hooked a hefty tri-axle trailer and a load of wood behind Old technology,
the F-150 and the result was predictable. With 2500kg on but entertaining
nonetheless.
its back the rear end barely noticed the load, with the V8
still needing to be revving to get its boogie on. The six-speed
automatic transmission is an intuitive unit and will downshift
under brakes. The big Ford also comes with electric trailer
brakes as standard.
Off-road, the 150s shift-on-the-fly 4x4 system is easy to use
and intuitive, and there are a few surprises with hill descent
control, traction control and a rear diff-lock as standard kit. As
a bush basher the Effie is a little wide if you want to keep the
shiny bits unscratched, but in open country and on the beach
the V8 Ford is quite a capable performer; although I doubt the
aluminium body panels would take much punishment from
sticks, branches and rocks.

86 www.4X4australia.com.au
CHEWBACCA BEING KICKED IN THE GOOLIES
A piddly 2500kg load
made the V8 sound
even better.

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87
DRIVEN V8 F-150 V ECOBOOST V6 F-150

FORD F-150
KING RANCH
ECOBOOST V6
DOWNSIZING
AFTER the petrol-headed hoonery of the V8 we were somewhat
dubious about the EcoBoost Effie. The green steed was almost Its surprisingly nimble
identical in spec to the maroon V8 machine save the smaller and gracious for such
engine the automatic sidesteps remained a novelty that a big pick-up.
dropped from the body of the truck when the doors were opened.
The fake engine rumble inside the V6 is nearly convincing, but
The V6 is the F-150s
the engine note outside the Ford is more angry taxi than howling premium donk. It also
muscle car. Performance wise, though, theres certainly nothing powers the Raptor 4x4.
to complain about. The V6 makes slightly less power than the V8
(272kW versus 288kW), but it makes more torque and delivers it
much lower in the rev range. The 570Nm of twisting force is on
tap from 2500rpm courtesy of its twin, low-inertia turbos. Thats
more than 1000rpm lower than the eight-iron.
The result is a much more flexible engine both off-road and
when towing. The V8 needs a bootful of revs to get cracking and
can quickly bury itself in sand and muck with its abrupt, peaky
power delivery. The EcoBoost, however, calmly unfurls power and
torque with much more manageable finesse.
Under a gross tow load of just over 2500kg the tacho needle
rarely exceeded 3000rpm, with the Effies outboard rear shocks
reducing any squirm under load. It was effortless, where the V8
was entertaining.

BIG FOOTPRINT
THE King Ranchs 20-inch alloy wheels arent the most practical
items off-road, but romping along the beach still proved a walk
in the park for the six-pack-equipped F-150, with its big footprint Theres more cow
helping it float over ruts with ease. Even in summers soft-sand skin in here than an
conditions the flexible power delivery of the EcoBoost made it Indonesian abattoir.
very easy to live with.
Fords competition has had quite a bit of fun demonstrating
how easy it can be to bang up the aluminium tub. In Australian
terms, however, nobody is likely to be dropping bucket loads of
bricks into the back of an expensive truck like this; still, a tub
liner wouldnt go astray.
The only steel parts of an F-150 these days are the chassis,
firewall and driveline components. It may look like a heavy blunt
object, but its deceptively nimble in operation. This year the
Effie is also set to get a diesel option for the first time, and the
aluminium construction will extend to the bigger Super Duty
range of F-Trucks.

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 - 20
9 79 17
1
400
TH
TJM 4X4 EQUIPPED
Back in the 70s when 4WDs were
few and far between, three adventure
seeking mates got their off road thrill
with customised Volkswagen Beetles
supped up as beach buggies. Each
fitted with custom made bull bars, roll
bars and sand tyres they drew the
attention of friends and bystanders.
Before long, Lloyd Taylor, Cliff Jones
and Steve Mollenhauer were making
hand-made custom bars for a growing
number of fans. As the demand
continued to grow, they decided it
was time to get serious.
In 1973, with little more than their
combined initials, shared passion
and appreciation for quality products
TJM was founded and the rest is
history. They were pioneers and TJM
became the first company in Australia
to manufacture and distribute quality
4WD equipment.
TJMs passion for innovation grew
with the company, and the companies
product range expanded to a full suite
of 4WD equipment and accessories.
The product range has extensively
broadened to include; Steel and
Alloy Bull Bars, Nudge Bars, Side
and Rear Protection Bars, Side Steps,
Trade Racks, Roof Racks, Recovery
Equipment, Winches, TJM XGS
Suspension, Airtec Snorkels, Pro
Lockers, Roof Top Tents, Awnings and
much more.
With over 75 stores across
Australia, and an ever-growing
international network, TJM
are continually developing and
cementing their global presence.
TESTED. TRIED. PROVEN.
At TJMs Research & Development
Department youll see everything
youd expect to find in a world leading
R&D facility engineers crawling
over vehicles of every make, model
and size; probing, planning and
scanning with the very latest digital
technology.
There are the gleaming next
generation prototypes, lined up in
their expansive workshop amongst
the sparks and screens, whilst other
innovative designs are being fine-
tuned and put through their paces.
Then theres the stuff you cant
actually see in TJMs R&D workshop
a pathological determination to
create, build and test the best 4WD
equipment on the planet. TJM
products are painstakingly researched
and subject to torturous trials and
testing.
TJMs commitment to innovation
and successful testing is fundamental
to the business and its growth. But
what else would you expect from a
team of fanatical 4WDrivers?
DRIVEN V8 F-150 V ECOBOOST V6 F-150

SPECS
ENGINE
FORD F-150 KING
RANCH ECOBOOST V6
DOHC twin-turbo V6
FORD F-150 KING
RANCH V8
DOHC five-litre V8
FUEL Unleaded Unleaded
POWER 272kW (365hp) 288kW (385hp)
TORQUE 570Nm @ 2500rpm 525Nm @ 3850rpm
TRANSMISSION six-speed automatic six-speed automatic
DRIVE Part-time 4x4, two-speed transfer case Part-time 4x4, two-speed transfer case
PAYLOAD 850kg 850kg
TOWING 4000kg (braked) 4000kg (braked)
WARRANTY Four years/130,000km Four years/130,000km
PRICE AS TESTED $153,000 (plus on-roads)* $150,000 (plus on-roads)*
*Exchange rate dependent

The F-150s long wheelbase

makes it a comfortable cruiser

RESULT
on- and off-road.

THE SENSIBLE DECISION

THERES no doubt the smart money is on the V6 F-150 as a tow
engine, as its torque output and power delivery makes it an
effortless hauler. Its easy to see why the EcoBoost powerplant
has become so popular in the US, as it uses less juice and is the
easiest engine to live with off-road. The trouble is, we just cant
pass up on the Coyote.
The Raptor, Fords off-road 4x4 hottie, has also dropped the
V8 in favour of the EcoBoost V6 (read about it on page 92), and
its the engine of choice for Fords carbon-fibre GT Le Mans car.
Buying a new, converted Effie may be a wallet-melting
exercise, but consider nothing else on the Aussie market, aside
from a 70 Series Cruiser or a light truck, has the GCM to tow
and haul at the same time.
If you want to haul big weight big distances and do it in
luxury youre limited to the 200 Series Land Cruiser or a Land
Rover Discovery, though Nissans petrol-powered Y62 should
also rate a mention. American pick-ups gives you the best of
both worlds.

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1
400
TH
TERRAIN TAMER
Looking back through Australian history, youd find an old
Thornycroft vehicle being dismantled in 1936 and its rear axles and
transmission being fitted to a Leyland Badger.
I t was this modification that allowed
the now infamous mailman Tom
Kruse to complete the worlds most
remote mail run, over 500km each
way from Maree in South Australia
to Birdsville in Central Queensland,
travelling through outback Australias
unforgiving terrain for the next 25
years.
Pioneers like Tom opened up our
country and to do this, they had to
rely on vehicles tough enough to
traverse our rugged land.
Since the 1960s, Terrain Tamer
has learned from these pioneers
sometimes the hard way.
Legends like Bill King from
Australian Adventure Tours (AAT
Kings), one of our earliest customers,
who built his business on the back of
the Bedford 4WDs that we supplied
him.
Bills journeys up through the red
centre and back, following tracks like
Burke & Wills or where the Stuart
Highway now runs, or even into the
Simpson Dessert, often meant hed
return having broken, damaged or
weakened parts. It was up to our team
to then design or source a stronger
part so the next tour could go on
without disruption.
While every vehicle has its
strengths, they also each have
weaknesses that can stop them
in their tracks without a care for
location. Over time weve learnt
what works well, and how we can
strengthen a vehicle to ensure safe
passage through our dangerous yet
beautiful landscape.
It began with those Bedfords and
Leylands and has continued through
LandCruisers and Patrols to where we
are today, with a quickly spreading
market of 4WD Utilities that are
themselves on their own pioneering
journey.
The knowledge we have shared
with our customers over the years has
today manifested itself into a unique
range of over 40,000 4WD parts that
will not only keep you running, but
get you home right through the
Gearbox, transfer case, CV joints,
filters, suspension bearing kits, brake,
clutch and thousands of other parts
that make up any LandCruiser, Hilux,
Patrol, Triton or D-Max.
They are the culmination of 50
years of engineering, field testing,
metallurgy and manufacture that have
allowed us to assist other regions of
the world, including over 85 countries
across Europe, Africa, Asia and the
Middle East.
DRIVEN 2017 FORD F-150 RAPTOR

The mile-wide Raptor

might be an issue for
city slickers.

RAPTOR ATTACK
WORDS AND PICS MATT SCOTT

T
HE FORD worlds most capable usage figures Ford the rear passengers. Most will
F-150 off-road vehicles, rates it at 15L/100km. opt for the SuperCrew and its
Raptor is coming with factory- For a vehicle fitted longer wheelbase, though the
an everyday engineered options that with 35-inch tyres and a SuperCabs 3409mm wheelbase
pick-up would cost thousands to match lift, that is an impressive will be more agile off-road
truck turned with aftermarket parts. figure. Itll tow your trailers while still offering room for
desert racing For example, it would with ease and ensure that, no the occasional passenger.
machine. cost tens-of-thousands matter if the roads are snowed While both share the same
Initially of dollars to make a new shut, youll get there. driveline, the SuperCrew,
launched 4Runner or Tacoma match with its 3708mm wheelbase,
in 2010 on the 2017 Raptors stock level DESIGN can tow up to 3629kg, 2000kg
the previous of performance, just in the IT MIGHT be based on a more than its smaller variant.
generation suspension department. production F-150, but the Payload with either model
chassis, we We wont even get into the Raptor features more than isnt terribly impressive, at
havent seen a Raptor since calamity-inducing power under 400 changes from the standard 454kg (SuperCab) and 544kg
2014. The all-new 2017 model the Raptors hood, and then truck. Ford didnt cut corners, (SuperCrew).
is based on the significantly theres the fact that this goes even being so specific as The 3.5-litre EcoBoost
lighter, current-generation down the highway without a to re-route all of the brake engine, putting out 331kW and
aluminium F-150. Its up single squeak, rattle, or worry and ABS lines thanks to the 691Nm, shares nothing with
on performance, equipped all with a warranty. increased wheel travel and the the previous-gen engine, except
with improved and virtually It also plays daily-driver dual exhaust. The new model that theyre both 3.5 litres and
unmatched suspension, and its duty better than most other has a tweaked frame to allow a V6. Fords done a great job
stuffed with enough technology off-road vehicles weve driven, for more suspension travel. with this motor; it is responsive
for you to pretend youre with the advanced suspension Its available in two different and has almost no perceivable
running the Baja 1000. giving it a high-end ride, and configurations, SuperCab and turbo-lag. Its also lighter than
the fuel-efficient, all-new SuperCrew, both offering four the cast-iron brick it replaces.
WHO IS IT FOR? aluminium 3.5-litre EcoBoost doors, with only the latter When paired with the all-
THE 2017 Raptor is one of the returning acceptable fuel- having a dedicated door for new 10-speed transmission,

92 www.4X4australia.com.au
this engine becomes savage.
Itll skip gears when needed to
keep it calm around town, but
once it enters Sport mode it
becomes fierce and aggressive.
Ten gears seems preposterous,
but its one of the reasons the
Raptor is always in the power
band and ready to attack.
Three-inch diameter, nine-
stage, internal bypass shocks
from Fox Racing ensure
the Raptor is turned into
something more than a mere
pick-up truck. When combined
with the healthy amount of
power it has, this is the closest
driving experience you can get
to a Baja racer. It is six inches
wider than the standard truck,
about the same as the previous
model, but its wheel travel
has increased to an immense
330mm in the front and 353mm
in the rear.
Both variants are offered
with a 1676mm bed, and if
you need more space, a bed
extender is available.
USING IT
THE high-speed test course
at Fords Borrego Springs
off-road test centre was most-
certainly designed to show off
the strengths of the vehicle,
but it gave us the opportunity
to see what happens when
the truck gets pushed a little
bit too far. While the truck is
capable, its also forgiving and
easy to correct, something the
Ford engineers worked hard
to achieve. Big brakes allow
you to slow down rapidly, and
phenomenal suspension soaks
up your mistakes with ease.
The Terrain Management
System isnt groundbreaking,
but compared to other
complex systems its relatively
straightforward. Theres a Sport
mode for the street, along
with a Weather setting that
engages all-wheel drive for
pavement use and optimises
the AdvanceTrac system and
throttle response to ensure you
dont end up in a ditch.
The real winner here is the
Raptors Baja Mode, in essence
a Sport mode for off-road. It
engages four-wheel drive high-
range and locks the Raptors
clutch-controlled centre diff.
It allows you to dissect terrain
at your own will at any speed,
ensuring the Raptors engine
is loaded in the right gear and
ready to fire. Need to lift the
front end for some incoming
whoops? The throttle is right
there, without delay.
Once you get out of the
wide-open expanses of the
desert, things get a bit tight
for the wide Raptor. Ford took
us on their rock crawling test
loop, consisting of a few steep
climbs and a bunch of rugged
terrain. It performed admirably
on the technical sections,
showing off the much-improved
traction control systems
which controlled wheelspin
effectively. But this isnt the
vehicle for those intending to
spend their time on technical
trails; its wheelbase is still
too long and its still too wide.
It also seems that until the
Raptor acquires some speed
its suspension doesnt really
wake up.
The Ford Raptor has 35-inch
BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2s
(available on bead-lock wheels),
well-tuned Fox suspension with
added clearance, skid plates,
and front and rear recovery
points tied into the frame.
Aside from some auxiliary
lighting, I honestly dont know
what else to change.

Every 4x4 should have

a Baja mode; only the
Raptor takes it on.

Should you
buy one?
STARTING at US$49,520
its quite good value, but
youre looking at upwards
of $150,000 to get a
RHD one here. Youd
have to spend tens-of-
thousands of dollars on
aftermarket performance
parts to bring its closest
competition into the
same realm.
For what it is, the
Raptor gets decent fuel
economy, has respectable
road manners, and has
unmatched off-road
performance. People
think its just an F-150
with a different grille and
some shocks they can
add themselves it isnt.

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 drIven
078
MERCEDES-MAYBACH
G650 LANDAULET

REGAL
RIDE
Mercedes-Maybachs
G650 Landaulet is fit for
a king. We don the crown
and head off road.
WORDS THOMAS GEIGER

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95
DRIVEN MERCEDES-MAYBACH G650 LANDAULET
W
HILE Mercedes is busily testing the first all-new
G-Class in almost four decades, the outgoing
model is saying farewell with a very bold
statement: a stretched landaulet that goes by
the name of Maybach.
With an impressive silhouette that makes
the prototype Rolls-Royce Cullinan look like
a Smart Fortwo, and a level of luxury thats
way beyond what weve seen in the Bentley
Bentayga, Mercedes-Maybach claims it to be the
ultimate SUV. Period!
Riding in the gigantic G-Class is truly
elevating in two ways: Literally, because
Mercedes is using the same portal axles that
we know from the AMG G63 66 and G500
44 variants, in combination with 22-inch
wheels. This raises ground clearance to almost
96 www.4X4australia.com.au
500mm and lifts the driver higher than in any
other stock 4x4 on or off the road. While going
through the African jungle on a luxury safari
experience, you feel more like youre riding an
elephant than being stuffed into a tin can on
wheels. And figuratively, because stepping up
the electrically powered running boards is like
stepping up in society and being king, at least
for the day.
Since Mercedes wants the Maybach Landaulet
to be the cream of the crop, the engine choice
was easy the most powerful one they have in
stock. So, once again, the G-Class uses the V12
Powerpack that we know from other AMG 65
models, just with a nobler, understated sound.
As it turns out, its definitely the right choice,
because neither the Landaulets 3.3 tonnes or its
Pure luxury. Nothing
compares to the
G650s backseat bliss.

1 2 3

1. Maybach nameplate revived in 2014.

2. First-class-like comfort.
3. Insane 22-inch wheels.

MERCEDES-MAYBACH
CLAIMS IT TO BE THE
ULTIMATE SUV. PERIOD!
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97
DRIVEN MERCEDES-MAYBACH G650 LANDAULET
Portal axles and tall
tyres give the G650 a
mantis-like profile.
THE G650S 3.3 TONNES DOESNT
FAZE THE TWELVE-CYLINDER
shipping-container-like aerodynamics faze the
twelve-cylinder much.
463kW and 1000Nm are more than enough
for a very smooth and effortless ride, and even
if there are a lot of cheaper SUVs with better
acceleration times and higher top speeds, its an
impressive, heart-stirring experience to pilot this
giant from 0 to 60mph in less than six seconds,
or to push it up to 112mph (180km/h). The faster
you drive it, the more grateful you are for the
300 additional millimetres of track width and
the stretched 3428mm wheelbase. Finally the
G-Class no longer drives like a frightened animal
on a game drive. Instead, its become as secure
and dignified as a charging rhino.
But as fascinating as the drive might be,
its even more captivating to sit back one row
Carbon brakes utilised
to stop 3.3 tonnes of
hurtling metal.
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and let someone else do the work behind the
wheel. There is simply no other 4x4 and no
convertible with as much backseat comfort as
in this Landaulet. The private-jet-like comfort
starts with massaging and air-conditioned seats
from the S-Class that can be reclined into a bed
position. It continues with increased leg room,
a bar complete with silver champagne flutes,
and an impressive infotainment system. This
backseat can quite easily be considered the most
luxurious sunbed in the world. And to avoid
people peeking in and seeing your belly button
during that intimate ride into the great wide
open, you can raise a roll-up partition between
yourself and your driver while letting the roof
down both at the push of a button.
But privacy may not exactly be what the
Massage seats, roll-up
partition and a bar...
why would you leave?
DRIVEN MERCEDES-MAYBACH G650 LANDAULET
typical buyer of this type of vehicle is looking
for. In which case, this Maybach is also the
perfect choice. One just needs to stand up, grab
the massive handles that you already know from
the dashboard and stick your head out of the
giant roof to feel like the pope on tour.
The Maybach Landaulet might be the most
comfortable and promising G-Class ever, but
its also one of the most disappointing at least
for anyone showing up after the first 99 lucky
customers have put in their order for one of
these limited-edition SUVs. After that, no more
ITS AS SECURE AND DIGNIFIED AS
A CHARGING RHINO
1 2
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Maybach Gs will be built, regardless of how
much money one puts on the table. And even
if the estimated $750,000 price tag makes the
Maybach G650 Landaulet the most expensive
Mercedes in the line-up, it wont have any
problems selling them.
However, the sad and frustrated can take some
comfort in knowing the next generation G-Class 1. Seven-speed automatic.
is only a few months away, and even though it 2. Kip in the seats bed position.
may not be as wide and generous as this regal 3. Roof control at the touch of
ride, it will be the most comfortable G-Class in a button.
history. At least for us mere mortals.
3
PEDAL
DOWN.
PULSE
UP.

The last air filter your car will ever need.

WE ALL WANT MORE PERFORMANCE.

And now you can get it with a K&N high flow air filter, designed to
increase horsepower with up to 50% more airflow. Whether your car
is brand new or has some kilometers on it, get a K&N filter today, spend
5 minutes under the hood and youre good to go.

KNFILTERS.COM.AU
 EXPLORE
078
CAPE YORK
PENINSULA, QLD

102
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 THE FINAL
FRONTIER WORDS AND PHOTOS DICK EUSSEN

CAPE YORK PENINSULA IS THE LARGEST REMAINING

WILDERNESS REGION ON AUSTRALIAS EAST COAST.

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EXPLORE CAPE YORK PENINSULA, QLD

HE CAPE is an incredible natural

environment, with breathtaking scenery,
long and sandy beaches, the largest lowland
and tidal (mangrove) rainforests in Australia,
the longest parabolic sand dunes in the
world, perched dune lakes, endless monsoon
woodlands, coastal flood plains, arid grass
lands, an abundance of riverine systems that
feed waterfalls, tidal estuaries, and wetlands
that extend to far horizons.
These environments house a vast array
of wildlife and flora native to the area,
including the largest reptile in the world the
misnamed saltwater (Estuarine) crocodile.
Put simply, it eats people if theyre stupid
enough to ignore the dangers and people
are killed every year across the tropics. The crocs live in both fresh
and saltwater environments, sometimes hundreds of kilometres
inland in stream pools and billabongs. They also inhabit remote
islands and coral cays in the Coral Sea.
The Cape has seen little change since Lieutenant James Cook
raised a flag on Possession Island, just west of the Capes Tip, in
1770. It remains sparsely populated with less than 20,000 people

Bulldust tracks are

prominent, so protect
your load.

104
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calling it home. The official historic border of the Cape is
north of Mitchell River and Rifle Creek at Mount Molloy.
The official scientific border is the longitudinal line that
extends from Cooktown to Pormpuraaw, but no-one takes
much note of it. The scientific Cape is about 115,350km
in size and extends more than 1000km from Cairns to the
Tip. Its bounded by the Great Barrier Reef lagoon to the
eastern side, the Torres Strait to the north, and the Gulf of
Carpentaria to the west.
The Cape only has two seasons, Wet and Dry. For the Wet,
the amount of rainfall and the seasons duration varies from
year to year. Its recommended not to travel once the build-up
of rainfall commences in November, with the Wet proper
often beginning anytime from Christmas and lasting until
late-April. Many bush tracks remain closed until June, and
SEALED ROADS ARE THE CAUSE OF
COMPLAINTS FROM MANY 4X4 TRAVELLERS
There are many creek
crossings on the OTT, and all
are born from the Wet.
National Parks rarely open until mid-May. The times of travel
and track openings are totally dependent on the vagaries and the
duration of the Wet, though.
Access to the Cape is possible via the Peninsula Developmental
Road (PDR), which extends from Lakeland, south of Cooktown,
to Weipa. The myth that the region is a third world country is far
from true, as much of the PDR has long stretches of bitumen and
well-maintained dirt sections. In fact, about three quarters of the
road will be bitumen by 2018.
Currently the PDR is sealed as far as Laura, with long stretches
of bitumen sections extending to Weipa. Sealed roads are being
continuously added and are the cause of complaints from many
4WD travellers who reckon the Cape is losing its wilderness
identity. That may be so, but people who live there are just as
entitled to good roads as the rest of the country.
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EXPLORE CAPE YORK PENINSULA, QLD

The narrow Starcke

Track passes by Mount
Webb National Park.

Load up the quad bike Respect the

and turn your Cape trip regulations, as they
into an extreme one. keep the Cape safe.

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CAST A LINE MOST STOCK 4WDS
ARE FINE, UNLESS
FISHING is one of the main reasons people visit the
Cape, and its as easy as sitting on one of the many
jetties or beaches at Cooktown, Seisia, Elim Beach
at Hopevale, Cape Flattery, Melville Bay, Bathurst

YOU WANT TO DROP

Bay, Lloyd Bay, Chili Beach, Captain Billy Landing,
Pormpuraaw, Weipa, and the NPA.
The jetties, beaches and estuaries offer
barramundi, trevally, queenfish, Spanish mackerel,

IT OFF THE BANK INTO

cod and more. The only problem on the east coast
beaches and some estuaries is that when the
southeast trade wind blows, the froth off the waves

GUNSHOT CREEK
makes fishing often impossible. But on the west
coast the trade winds blow over the coast and touch
down about two kilometres from shore, leaving a
calm in-shore corridor that has amazing fishing.
There are also many streams and estuaries where a
boat or tinnie is a must.
Barramundi is what makes the Cape tick. If you
are a barra virgin, hire a guide when in Cooktown, More adventurous routes run from Cooktown via the
Weipa or Seisia and find out how its done. Take a Battlecamp and Starcke tracks. The latter is maintained as far as
selection of hooks ranging from 3/0 to 5/0, sinkers the Starcke River, before a bulldust track takes over and runs to
and a good, reliable rod and reel. Both mono and
the Rinyirru or Cape Melville National Parks. Even more isolated
braid lines needs to be 20lb or better. If you dont
have any barramundi lures buy them in Atherton, routes are from the Burke Developmental Road between Mareeba
Cairns, Cooktown or and Kowanyama. Check it out on Hemas Cape York Map.
Weipa. Their prices Laura, Coen, Weipa and Portlands Road are small towns and
are comparable or are backed up by roadhouses at Hann River, Musgrave, Archer
better to those in the River, Moreton and Jardine. Hope Vale and Lockhart River
south and they only
are the only Aboriginal communities on the east coast, while
stock the lures and
colours that the fish Pormpuraaw, Aurukun and Napranum are on the west coast.
bite on. Plus, you get There are five communities in the Northern Peninsula Area
updated information (NPA): Injinoo, Umagico, New Mapoon, Seisia and Bamaga.
where the fish are These communities have supermarkets, post offices, schools,
biting and on what. medical centres, police stations, as well as fuel, basic supplies,
Port Douglas and
limited mechanical repairs, accommodation and camping
Cooktown are the
closest towns to the facilities. Permits arent required to visit Indigenous communities
Great Barrier Reef, or Deed of Grant in Trust (DOGIT) lands, but no alcohol is
and regular day allowed, even when passing through. The roadhouses have
charters operate to accommodation, campgrounds, meals, fuel and some basic
the reef for sight- repairs, while Cooktown, Weipa and the NPA stock almost all
seeing, diving and
supplies. Most of the land in the Peninsula is DOGIT titled,
fishing.
which means its owned by Indigenous people. The rest consists
of National Parks and reserves, which are jointly managed by

On the hunt for barra?

Then a tinnie is a
luxury on the Cape.

The scenic Twin Falls

at Elliot Campground,
on the OTT.

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EXPLORE CAPE YORK PENINSULA, QLD

Queensland National Parks and Wildlife and the Traditional

Owners (TO).
There are few limitations to camping along roads and
tracks. Many people stay overnight in roadside burrow pits,
parallel to running streams, on the beach, or under a shady
place. Others prefer a meal and shower at a roadhouse or
township, or even a comfy room for the night (book ahead if
you wish to do that).
All Aboriginal communities, except Napranum and a
few on the NPA, have basic campgrounds and motel-style
accommodation. Some restrictions may occur and people are
asked to respect the customs and avoid speeding, as children
and dogs play in the streets.
The only campfire restrictions on the Cape are when youre
in National Parks, as its claimed animals use dead timber for
shelter and fires may pose a fire risk.
Thanks to the maintenance of the PDR, Bamaga Road
and the main arteries to Pormpuraaw and Portland Roads,
a Cape trek isnt hard. However, a 4WD vehicle is highly
recommended for exploring remote and infamous tracks like
the Old Telegraph Track (OTT), the Frenchmans Track and

SIMPLIFY A CAMP
TRIP BY KEEPING TIPS AND TRICKS
WEIGHT DOWN AND FIST-sized rocks hurtling towards your windscreen are
common sight, and if you hit an airborne rock at speed

IMPROVING MOBILITY
youre up for the cost of a new window. Slow down to
60km/h and move off the road to avoid it.
Never switch into another lane on dirt sections
where piled-up gravel ridges divide the track at speed.
Vehicles will fish-tail and, in worst case scenarios, roll.
When overtaking, call the vehicle ahead on channel
40. Radios are almost mandatory as there is a lot of
50m-long road-train traffic. Some folk dont like moving
over, so give them the road and save your windscreen.
Sometimes its best to take a break, boil the billy and go
for a walk.

There are plenty of

bulldust roads on the
Cape. Thats no joke.

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19

400

TH

MAXTRAX.COM.AU
EXPLORE CAPE YORK PENINSULA, QLD
others. Most stock standard 4WDs are fine, unless you want to
drop it off the bank into Gunshot Creek.
A bullbar and an external intake snorkel are must-haves if
you plan to cross rivers and creeks on the above mentioned
tracks, while driving lights are highly recommended as there
are plenty of wandering kangaroos, horses and cattle. Modified
tyres arent needed unless you plan to go up in the Wet season.
All terrain tread patterns will do for most users. Tyres should be
36psi on the PDR (and elsewhere) but down to 16psi for sand
and beach excursions, so invest in a reliable air compressor and
tyre gauge. Also carry spare radiator hoses and driving belts,
shock bushes, bearings, grease and rags, a comprehensive tool
box, recovery gear and plenty of drinking water.
Tents and off-road-capable camper trailers are popular for
these tracks, and rooftop tents are recommended for neurotic
urban travellers who are in constant fear of snakes and
crocodiles. However, a 30-second Oztent, or a mozzie dome,
CAPE YORK PENINSULA, QUEENSLAND
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rain shelter and swag are all you need. Rooftop tents restrict
movement of the vehicle if you wish to go for a drive from the
camp, and people also tend to fall down from vehicles when they
forget where they are at night.
Simplify a Cape trip by keeping weight down and improving
mobility. A camp oven and barbecue plate is simple to cook on
over an open fire, and small propane stoves are popular. A folding
table and chair is a must, as is a 4x6m tarpaulin for use as a fly
for a semi-permanent camp because it often rains on the Cape,
especially early in the Dry season when the trade winds slam into
the east coast. Use poles and ropes for it, or tie a length of rope
between two trees for an A-frame to provide shelter from sun and
rain. Also carry some winter gear, as parts of the Cape can cool
down to 5-8C during June and July.
To maximise your Cape trip, do the research and visit the many
towns, communities and people. Above all else, enjoy camping
under the stars with the dingoes howling in the darkness.
Perfect spot to take a
few mates on a fishing
and camping trip.
www.hemamaps.com
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 EXPLORE
078
MURRUMBIDGEE
RIVER, NSW

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 M I G H T Y
MURRUMBIDGEE
Following the Murrumbidgee River from its
source to its junction with the Murray.
WORDS AND PHOTOS RON AND VIV MOON

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EXPLORE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NSW
T
HE STORM was a tempest.
The violent wind whacked
and swirled the trees and
leaves, and small branches
flung from them like chaff
from a giant thrashing
machine. Thunder rumbled
and reverberated, while
lightening slashed across the
blackened sky in long, single
filaments that linked heaven
and earth with brilliant
ephemeral tethers.
Then the rain hit, thumping
us with giant buckets of water
in one continuous torrent
and assaulting all our senses
with noise, mayhem and
restricted vision. For the next
10 minutes Mother Nature
pounded us as we drove,
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albeit slowly, down a bitumen
road absolutely covered in
leaves, twigs and branches
torn from the trees and
dumped unceremoniously.
We hadnt even arrived at
the start of our little, self-
proclaimed river odyssey. We
had just turned off the Hume
Highway and were heading
into the Snowy Mountains
when the first flashes of
lightening heralded the
approaching storm. By the
time we got to Tumut just a
drizzle of rain remained to
remind us of the storm, but
over the next week we were
to find ourselves continually
reminded of the tempest that
had swept in from the west
and battered the forest and
trees along the great river we
had come to check out.
We camped overnight on
the edge of Blowering Dam,
just one of the impoundments
that control the short but
mighty Tumut River, itself
a major tributary of the
Murrumbidgee River which
was the watercourse we
intended to follow from its
source to its junction with the
Murray River.
Again we were battered
by a thunder and lightening
storm that evening, but the
wind, though not as violent
as before, was enough for us
to keep a wary eye on the big
trees around the camping
 Port Phillip Trail junction,
on the way to the
Currango Homestead.

The self-titled

OVER THE NEXT WEEK WE

Headwater Camp,
overlooking boggy flats.

WERE REMINDED OF THE

TEMPEST THAT HAD
SWEPT IN FROM THE WEST

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EXPLORE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NSW
Crossing the
Murrumbidgee River on
Long Plain Road.
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area. It was a precaution
which developed into
somewhat of a phobia over the
next seven or so days.
By mid-morning the
next day we were on the
Peppercorn Fire Trail which
branches off the Long Plain
Road in the heart of the
Kosciuszko NP, just north
of the track to the historic
Coolamine Homestead and
delightful Blue Waterholes.
A nearby camping area is a
popular and enjoyable spot
to spend a day or two, but on
this trip we had other plans.
Knowing the Peppercorn
Trail was closed to motorised
vehicles I had brought my
mountain bike along to follow
this trail west to the source of
the Murrumbidgee, just south
of Peppercorn Hill.
My first foray along the
track took me to a camp spot
tucked in close to a copse of
snow gums overlooking boggy
flats, where the river gathers
water to make it more than
a trickle. The track finished
here, which, as I had also
discovered, can be accessed by
vehicle I called it Headwater
Camp and its a nice, secluded
spot to throw down a swag
or set up the camper. From
here I walked across the bog
to the main channel of the
nascent river and followed it
up and downstream before
heading back to the bike and
backtracking to find where
the Peppercorn Trail had
diverted from the trail I had
ended up on.
Two wheels are better
than four along the
MVO trail.
The fainter, less-used
Peppercorn Fire Trail veers off
the main track and descends
the low hill and crosses the
fledgling Murrumbidgee,
about 2km west of the Long
Plains Road. The river is
about half-a-metre wide at
the bridge, where a locked
gate indicates the start of the
Management Vehicle Only
(MVO) track.
I pushed off west across
the plain following in the
footsteps of a mob of dingoes
that had used the same track
just a few hours previously.
I saw no sign of them, but
there were a few groups of
wild horses around. This track
enters the tree line and swings
north climbing the low hills,
before swinging westward

again. From near here its
a short walk through forest
and across swampy ground
to the mapped source of
the river.
Back at the Cruiser, I
gladly traded two wheels
for four and headed back
out onto Long Plains
Road, which crosses the
Murrumbidgee a few
kilometres south. We took
the Port Phillip Trail as the
ford across the backwaters
of the Tantangara Dam is
open to vehicles. At times
the lake formed by the
dam is too high, closing off
access further east along
the trail, though there was
no such issue this time.
The green grass of the
exposed floodplain of the
Wild horses are
prominent, here they
graze at Tantangara.
The Murrumbidgee is born in
the hills above this swampy
high country bog.
dam was being cropped
to lawn-like consistency
by groups of wild horses,
which seemed to be in very
large numbers through
here. If the NSW Parks
& Wildlife Department
is serious about ridding
Kosciuszko of its feral
horses, I can give them a tip
start around here!
THESE HIGH PLAINS
With yet another crossing
of the river and its again
a little bigger than previous
WERE FIRST USED BY
we came to the well-kept
Currango Homestead and
its 20 or so outbuildings.
PIONEER GRAZIERS
This historic homestead
was built in 1895 and has
been continually occupied
since, with the homestead
IN THE 1830s
now offering pleasant
rustic accommodation.
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117
EXPLORE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NSW
The nearby open forest and
snow plains are a delight, but
camping isnt allowed around
the homestead which is a
bit of a shame, but there are a
number of places nearby that
cater for campers.
These high plains were first
used by pioneer graziers in the
1830s, who brought their flocks
of sheep and cattle during
summer to these verdant
grasslands. Homesteads and
huts were built and the grazing
continued until 1958, when all
cattle and sheep were removed
to protect the water catchment
for the then fledgling Snowy
Mountain Scheme the
Kosciuszko area having been
declared a State Park in 1944.
Our route took us south
along Pocket Saddles Road,
which passes through some
steep country before dropping
down to another crossing of
the Murrumbidgee, this time
just below the Tantangara
Dam wall. This is the first
impoundment on the stream,
used to control the flow of
water of the river for irrigation
and power purposes. Here we
met up with a contract pig
hunter who was scouring the
area for feral pigs, which are
now a major concern for the
parks management.
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The river heads south-east
after its expulsion from the
dam, and we met it again north
of Adaminaby where it was
THE AREA IS ALIVE
running through pockets of
delightful farm land, some of it
irrigated by the river itself a
WITH ROOS, WE HAD
sign of things to come further
downstream. We travelled
along bush roads, keeping as
MANY TO MISS AS
close to the river as possible.
The area is alive with roos;
in fact, while we had seen
THEY CROSSED THE
plenty of grey kangaroos in
the national park, out here we
had more variety including
greys, smaller black (or swamp)
TRACK
wallabies and stocky euros
to dodge as they hammered
across the track.
Later that evening we pulled
up beside the Murrumbidgee,
south of the small hamlet of
Bredbo and the historic Bredbo
Inn, where you can enjoy free
camping. Established in 1836
the pub is one of the oldest
in Australia, and in the early
days it was an overnight stop
Cooleman Homestead
for the gold coach and a refuge
is smack-bang in
from the bushrangers that once sheep country.
roamed the area.
The river was now flowing
Burrinjuck Dam is the
north as it paralleled the
biggest dam on the
grey/green-clad ridges of the
Murrumbidgee.
Namadgi NP, having changed
direction suddenly as it cut
through a gap in the Clear
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EXPLORE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NSW
The Deep Space tracking
station is situated just
outside Canberra.
Range just north of Cooma.
We crossed it again at Angle
Crossing and followed the
now defined and picturesque
river valley northwards to the
village of Tharwa, less than
40km from the heart of our
nations capital.
This area is rich in
Australian heritage.
Aboriginals used the fruitful
hunting grounds and fished
the rivers and streams a
long time before Europeans
arrived. In 1821 Charles
Throsby, a pioneer settler
and sometimes explorer,
discovered and named the
Murrumbidgee, which was
an Anglicised version of the
Aboriginal name for this river.
Two years later Brigade-Major
John Ovens and Captain Mark
Currie explored the upper
reaches of the stream. In 1824
Hume and Hovell crossed the
Crossing the
Murrumbidgee at Angle
Crossing in the ACT.
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river further downstream,
south of present-day Yass,
their journey opening up a
swath of country that was
soon occupied by European
graziers.
After climbing a hill
north of Tharwa we came to
Lambrigg Lookout, which
overlooks the normally shallow
stream and the farm once
owned by the pioneer William
Farrier. It was Farrier who,
in the late 1800s and early
1900s, set Australia on course
as a major wheat producer
by developing important new
strains of wheat suitable for
the drier country further
west. His discoveries still
reverberate through farming
and agriculture today.
A little further north we
took the short diversion into
the Canberra Deep Space
Communication Centre at
Tidbinbilla, now part of
NASAs Deep Space Network
Australias Tidbinbilla is one of
three major tracking stations
in the world. Here there are
seven antennae including the
biggest steerable antenna in
the southern hemisphere, DSS-
43. An information centre at
the gate to the facility gives
you a great insight into the
work being carried out there.
The whole length of the
river in the ACT is protected
in the Murrumbidgee River
Corridor, which adjoins a
number of other conservation
reserves. While there are some
very pleasant spots to swim,
canoe and picnic along the
river through the ACT, there
is only one spot you can camp
and that is at the well-set-up
Cotter Campground at the
junction of the Cotter and
Murrumbidgee Rivers. Its a
great spot to enjoy the river
and explore nearby Canberra.
We pushed on and crossed
the river where the stream
enters the backed-up waters
of the Burrinjuck Dam, the
biggest reservoir on the
Murrumbidgee and the first
major dam built for irrigation
in NSW (completed before
WW1). We stopped for the
night at the Burrinjuck Waters
State Park, a well-set-up and
large campsite on the edge of
the lake that provides a top
spot for those who want to
water ski, paddle or fish.
The mighty Tumut River,
enhanced by other streams,
joins the Murrumbidgee and
the river flows strongly and
steadily past the historic
town of Gundagai. Captain
Charles Sturt passed through
here in 1829 before he set
out in a whaleboat down the
The calm before
the storm
THE controlled waters of
the Murrumbidgee, which
are considerably depleted
by hundreds of farms and
thousands of hectares of
irrigated land, is a far cry from
Sturts day when he states in
his diary: ...such was the force
with which we had been shot
out of the Morumbidgee, that
we were carried nearly to the
bank opposite....
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EXPLORE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NSW
Murrumbidgee and Murray
to the sea. Not to be daunted,
he and his men then turned
around and rowed back
upstream to their depot.
Downstream from
Gundagai are a number of
reserves and state forests
along both sides of the
river, which make for great
camping and ideal places
to swim, canoe, fish or
birdwatch. We stopped for
the night in the Currawarna
State Forest and made
sure to be out of the way of
any overhanging red gum
branches, our phobia being
fed by the sight of numerous
large trees and limbs lying
scattered over parts of the
track and in camping spots. A
low bank, even though a big
gum had fallen and blocked
access, was still a favoured
launching spot for boats that
the locals used to go fishing.
Our little expedition
continued down the river,
passing a heap of potential
camping and fishing spots
including Sandy Beach
(near the small village of
Wantabadgery), Berembed
Weir (the south side of the
river is best) and Five Mile
Reserve east of Narrandera.
The latter is actually on
Bundidgerry Creek, an
anabranch of the main
river and an ideal spot for
canoeing and birdwatching.
Downstream of Narrandera
we explored the largest
section of the Murrumbidgee
River NP, which features a
dozen or so sandy beaches
and a boat-launching area,
but again our explorations
were curtailed by fallen
MAUDE PUB OFFERS
CAMPING, GOOD
MEALS AND THE BEST
PISS ON THE BIDGEE
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trees. That evening we
camped in the Willbriggie
Reserve near the small
township of Darlington
Point, before continuing
downstream past a heap of
good campsites to the historic
Carrathool Bridge over the
Murrumbidgee. The town
of the same name started Historic Carrathool lift-up
its existence here, but when bridge harks back to the
the railway came through in paddle steamer days.
1882 the town uprooted and
shifted 6km north onto the
flat plain where it remains
today. It was 10am when we
drove into the small hamlet,
but only a lazy dog snoozing
under the veranda of the
recently rebuilt Family Hotel
lifted an eye to greet us.
The next day after
checking out numerous sites
along the river we came
into Hay and found our way
to Sandy Point, where the
outskirts of the town and the
north bank of the river are
very popular free-camping Only a weary dog met us
spots. While there a ranger when we got to Carrathool.
warned us about camping Population 90.
and stopping under old red
gums as if our steadily The last time a sheep got a
increasing phobia wasnt haircut at Yanga Woolshed
already on high alert. was back in 2005.
That afternoon we were
in the small town of Maude,
where the nearby Maude
Weir and its waters make for
yet another pleasant camp.
We used to hunt pigs up this
way and hadnt been here for
more than 30 years, so it was
good to see the old Maude
Pub still offering camping,
good meals and the best piss
on the Bidgee.
Our next overnight stop
was in the expansive Yanga
NP, just south of Balranald.
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EXPLORE MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NSW
Up until 2005, when national
parks took it over, this was one
of Australias biggest and most
prosperous sheep stations.
Again it was a property we used
to hunt feral pigs on, but such
pleasures are strictly curtailed
these days. Still, you now have
the opportunity to explore the
shearing shed, the outbuildings
and the impressive 1850s pine
log homestead. The must-see
station is located on a high
isthmus of land between the
two bodies of water that make
up the Yanga Lakes.
We were disappointed to
find little public access to
the Murrumbidgee farther
downstream, with our route
ending near the homestead
that lies close to the junction
of the Murrumbidgee with the
mighty Murray. We opted to cut
our losses and head back to the
bitumen to cross the Murray
into Victoria, where we found
our way through state forest
MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER, NEW SOUTH WALES
124
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Travel Planner
and tall, crowding red gums to
the confluence of the two great
streams the Murrumbidgee
oozed a darker, muddy brown MOST of the roads along the Murrumbidgee are second-
plume of water into the already class bitumen or good graded gravel roads. Tracks in the
reserves, state forests and national parks vary from good
brown waters of the Murray. to difficult, many of which demand a four-wheel drive.
We celebrated upon reaching KOSCIUSZKO NP: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit
our goal and then, after taking -a-park/parks/kosciuszko-national-park
a furtive glance at the CURRANGO HS: www.currango.asn.au
overhanging trees, we headed COTTER CAMPGROUND: www.environment.act.gov.au/
downstream and found our way parks-conservation/parks-and-reserves/find-a-park/
murrumbidgee-river-corridor/cotter-campground
the short distance to a great BURRINJUCK WATERS SP: www.inlandwaters.com.au/
camp. First named by Thomas park/info/burrinjuck-waters
Mitchell as Passage Camp, it MURRUMBIDGEE RIVER NP: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.
was here in 1836 that he stood au/visit-a-park/parks/murrumbidgee-valley-national-park
on the cusp of everlasting fame YANGA NP: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/
as the discoverer of Australia parks/yanga-national-park
Felix. The sandy beach that
had greeted him is still a
delight today, and with no one
else around and no overhanging
gums we had a perfect
campsite and a fitting place to
end our journey down the
Murrumbidgee. Theres no
doubt well be back, this time
with a canoe, a fishing rod and
a bit more time.
www.hemamaps.com
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078
GQ PATROL AT THE
OUTBACK CHALLENGE

LL EN G E
VALL

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LMUT MUELLE

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WORDS

ACC EP T ED
Y O U D O N T N E E D A B I G - D O L L A R
P RO V I N G U T B A C K C H A L L E N G E .
RIG TO TAKE O N T H E O
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www.4X4australia.com.au
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CUSTOM GQ PATROL AT THE OUTBACK CHALLENGE

M
ANY would assume the
Outback Challenge (OBC) Owner, Paul Andrewartha
requires a big-dollar, (left) and navigator/toolsman,
V8-powered, off-road Ty Couche (right).
super truck that rides on a
combination of finely tuned
and expensive suspension
components think again.
Paul Andrewartha has
proven you dont need a big-dollar truck to
compete in Australias most prestigious off-
road event. At the sprightly age of 43, with
just a glimpse of OBC in 2014 that was cut
short due to mechanical failure along with
two short-course events under his belt Paul
had developed a taste for off-road events.
Pauls relatively standard, carburetted
TB42 petrol GQ has had input from a couple
of workshops along the way, with the most
recent seven-week race prep undertaken
by Ty Couche (also Pauls navigator) and
ARB Ballarat. Following a slight mishap at
the Patrolapart Challenge, some repairs
and a full prep for the upcoming OBC were
needed. Tys commitment and eye for detail
shone through and provided a solid and

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 V E D Y O U D O N T
PAUL PRO OLLAR TRUCK
NEED A BIG-DETE AT THE
T O C O M P A L L E N GE
OUTBACK CH

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131
CUSTOM GQ PATROL AT THE OUTBACK CHALLENGE

reliable base to work with during the event.

While many entrants tow their race cars to
Broken Hill on a trailer, Paul simply tows a small
box trailer containing moderately sized 35-inch
Simex race tyres.
This GQ has a fairly basic modification list
that includes a tune (which still nets less than
half the power of an LS, at 115kW), bolt-in King
shocks, 4.6 factory Nissan gears wrapped around
ARB Air Lockers, a factory Nissan GU diff for
added axle strength, a ute chop to provide tray
space, and a single-motor Warn 8000lb high-
mount winch fitted with an air free spool and
powered by a single alternator off a later model
4.5-litre petrol. Abiding by the sanctioning
bodies safety specs, this GQ is fitted with
a CCDA-compliant roll cage, harnesses and
window nets that simply clip onto the doors for
race duties.
After tackling the week-long event in the
harsh outback surrounding of Broken Hill, Paul
reminisced: You spend a week competing then
spend the next 12 months dreaming of doing
it again. He made particular mention of his

Y OU S P E N D A W E E K
CO M P E T I N G , T H E N
SP E N D T H E N E X T 1 2
M ON T H S D R E A M I N G The GQ is such a good thing,
only slight mods were needed

I T A G A I N
for the OBCs obstacles.

OF DO I N G

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 CUSTOM GQ PATROL AT THE OUTBACK CHALLENGE

two favourite stages, the Rock Gorge and

Mad Max. Both stages require careful wheel
placement and driver input, and they amplify
the need to maintain race pace without
pushing the car to breaking point.
Paul cited the camaraderie and mateship
the teams share as the week progresses.
Where else do you get to drive your truck for
a week, at speed, in surroundings like this
with a group of people all there to enjoy the
experience?
With the excellent job of race prep
performed by Ty, minimal repairs were
needed throughout the week. However,
with the race being designed to test man
and machine, Paul says a good tool kit and
some basic spares such as a starter motor,
alternator, tie rod ends, two spare wheels and
a box of assorted nuts, bolts and hoses will
never go astray.
You may be thinking yeah, you could race
in a car like this, but what hope would you
have against the big boys? Well, Paul and Ty
finished up with a respectable ninth position
overall not bad for an old TB42!
Since OBC, Pauls humble GQ has done
many a camping trip, including a run to
Alice Springs. So now that we have busted
the OBC big-dollar truck myth are you
ready for adventure?

T H E Y F IN I S H E D
UP IN 9 T H
P O S I T IO N . N O T
B A D F OR A N Sometimes its easier to

OLD T B 4 2
navigate from the safety
of the sidelines.

Contact
CALL Event Manager Steve
Tjepkema on 0408 076 443
or visit the website: www.
outbackchallenge.com.au
The 2017 event is set
to run September 22-29,
2017. Competitor and
spectator packages are
available. Get involved!

134
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
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 GEAR
078
HIGH-TECH VERSUS
OLD-SCHOOL

TECH VS
TRADITION WORDS DEAN MELLOR

Four-wheel drives are becoming better suited to

around-town duties than outback touring. Where does
that leave the off-road adventurer? We ask Australias
foremost 4WD experts to find out.

A
S IS the case every year, weve received a lot of
feedback regarding our 4x4 Of The Year decision.
While many readers wholeheartedly agree with
our call to award the Toyota Land Cruiser 79
Double Cab the 4X4OTY award, many others
have questioned how a vehicle that originally
hit the market more than 30 years ago could be
considered for such a prestigious gong, especially
when up against the latest all-new, high-tech 4WDs.
Of course, the 70 Series Land Cruiser has been significantly
updated over the years, with chassis and engine upgrades now
accompanied by a host of electronic driver aids and safety
features, but its still not as high-tech as all-new vehicle designs.
But is high-tech what you want out in the bush?
Despite its shortcomings we reckon the Land Cruiser 79 is
one of the best bush-touring vehicles on the market, and its
becoming a rare old beast. In reality, it is one of the last true old-
school 4WDs still on the market. So whats better traditional or
high-tech? Lets look under the skin.

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137
GEAR HIGH-TECH VERSUS OLD-SCHOOL

MONOCOQUE VS
SEPARATE CHASSIS
ALL modern cars and a
number of modern four-
wheel drive wagons feature
monocoque construction,
where the chassis and the body
of the vehicle are incorporated
into one structure. There
are several advantages to
designing and building a
vehicle in this way. They are
relatively light compared
to vehicles with a separate
body-on-chassis design, so
offer better performance and
improved fuel economy; they
have greater torsional rigidity,
offering improved ride and
handling on the road; and they
are generally safer vehicles
because crumple zones around
a rigid passenger cell can be
more easily incorporated into
their inherent design.
While these are important
advantages, many four-wheel
drives on the market still have
a body-on-separate-chassis
design, and for good reason.
From a vehicle
manufacturers perspective,
the primary advantage of a
separate chassis design is the
ability to easily platform share.
In the case of one-tonne utes,
manufacturers can simply
bolt different body structures
atop the same separate chassis
to create single, extra and
double cab variants of their
one-tonne utes, and then throw
tubs, trays or service bodies
on the back to suit customer
requirements. Many go one
step further, having developed
wagon variants using the
same chassis designs, such as
Ford Everest, Toyota
Fortuner,
uner, Holden Trailblazer,
Trailblazerr,
Isuzu
u M-UX and Mitsubishi
Pajero
ro Sport, all of which use
the same
ame basic chassis as their
ute siblings. In the case of the
70 Series, Toyota has for many
years used the one chassis
design for Single Cab, Double
Cab, Wagon and TroopCarrier
variants, simply adjusting
chassis length as required.
From a four-wheel drivers
perspective, there are several
advantages to the traditional
separate chassis design, such
as chassis flex and road noise
insulation. While it doesnt
do any favours to on-road
dynamics, chassis flex is
beneficial off-road when
a vehicle is crawling over
obstacles and can aid the
suspensions
ssu spensions ability
tto
o keep all four
wheels on the ground
groun
over undulating terrain.
terrai
You can get a really strong
stron
monocoque construction in any
vehicle, but the vehicles I tend
to choose for off-road travel,
like GU Patrols, 70 Series
Cruisers and Land Rover
Defenders, all have a separate
chassis, 4X4 Australias Editor-
At-Large, Ron Moon, said.
As well as off-road strength
and flexibility, a separate
chassis allows for more options
when fitting accessories.
4X4 Australias Road
Test Editor Fraser Stronach
explained: Youve got room
to put [fuel] tanks and water
tanks, and a solid place to
mount a bullbar.

WHAT DRIVES YOU?

DECIDING which platform you want to underpin your 4WD is a matter
of purpose. A separate chassis is great off-road and for mods, while a
monocoque could be more on-road biased. Land Rover has left tradition
in its dust with the new Discovery employing an aluminium monocoque
chassis, full independent suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and enough
electronics to pilot the Sputnik program.

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 PLATFORM SHARING
Due to the body-on-frame
construction, new variants like the
Ford Everest and Holden Trailblazer
are cheaper and easier to produce.

The vehicles I tend to choose for off-road

travel, like GU Patrols, 70 Series Cruisers
and Land Rover Defenders, all have a
RON MOON
separate chassis.
OFF-ROAD BENEFITS
Chassis flex might not be the
beacon of on-road dynamics, but
it is a benefit for harcore off-road
driving keeping all fours planted.

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139
GEAR HIGH-TECH VERSUS OLD-SCHOOL
INDEPENDENT VS
LIVE-AXLE SUSPENSION
NOWHERE is the tech versus
tradition debate more obvious
than when comparing modern
independent suspension
systems with old-school live-
axle arrangements.
By definition, an
independent suspension allows
each of a vehicles wheels to
act independently of each
other. In other words, if a wheel
hits a bump, it has no direct
effect on the opposing wheel,
unlike a live-axle arrangement
where opposing wheels are
directly joined via the solid
axle between them. The other
advantage of an independent
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suspension is it has less
unsprung weight, so the
springs and dampers are more
easily able to control up and
down wheel movement. Both
of these attributes provide
on-road ride and handling
advantages over a heavy, live-
axle suspension set-up.
Some examples of 4WDs
with fully independent
suspension include the
Mitsubishi Pajero, Jeep
Cherokee and Grand Cherokee,
and Land Rover Discovery and
Range Rover.
Many manufacturers like
to have an each-way bet and
equip their vehicles with
independent front suspension
and a live axle at the rear.
Examples include the current
crop of one-tonne utes, and
wagons such as Toyota 200
Series Land Cruiser and Prado.
But is this a good solution?
It depends on your driving
mix, Stronach said. The
standard Toyota 200 Series and
Prado with the independent
front and live-axle rear is
probably the right thing... but a
fully independent vehicle can
be a good thing, as the Land
Rover Discovery has proven
since 2003.
LIVE AXLE
According to the experts, a live
axle is still the best bet for the
serious off-roader as it offers the
most amount of traction when
the going gets tough. Sadly, its
slowly being phased out.
When the going gets tough
off-road, however, a live-axle
set-up has advantages over an
independent design, including
constant ground clearance
under the axle and the fact
that as one wheel is pushed
upwards by an obstacle the
opposing wheel is pushed
downwards, giving the vehicle
more chance to keep all of its
wheels on the ground.
Independent suspension
is fantastic for any road a
bitumen highway, a dirt road
or a gravel road but once
you start to get into the really
rough stuff I think the live

INDEPENDENT
axle tends to operate better,
Moon said.
4X4 Australias Editor Matt
Raudonikis added: You
cant beat live axles for off-
road use, and unfortunately
theyre dying out. The newer
[independent suspension]
systems try to make up for it
with clever electronics to give
you some traction when wheels
are being picked up off the
ground, but for off-road use
you cant beat live axles front
and rear.
You cant beat live axles for off-road use.
MATT
Unfortunately theyre dying out.
RAUDONIKIS
VS
With the recent demise
of the GU Patrol and Land
Rover Defender, the only four
vehicles left on the market
with live axles front and rear
are the 70 Series Land Cruiser,
Jeep Wrangler, Mercedes-Benz
G-Class and the tiny Suzuki
Jimny, so vehicle options for
the four-wheel drive tourer are
diminishing year-on-year.
There are so many
electronic aids now
which [enhance off-road
performance] that its
LIVE-AXLE
becoming less of a dramatic
difference, pointed out Moon.
Having said that, Moon
isnt a fan of the complex
electronics on modern 4WD
vehicles. Im a bit old school.
I tend to like [a separate]
chassis and no electronics for
the remote driving I do. What
electronics there was on my
GU [Patrol], which was only
the security system for the
doors and all that sort of stuff,
I ripped out! So Im a bit of a
troglodyte, mate.
INDEPENDENT
SUSPENSION
A raft of electronic aids are now
available to assist traction when
dealing with serious articulation,
but the old-school methods, like
that of the Land Cruiser, are still
preferred by the purists.
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141
GEAR HIGH-TECH VERSUS OLD-SCHOOL
ELECTRONIC VS MECHANICAL
TRACTION AIDS
A MODERN vehicle with a full
suite of electronic traction aids
will include traction control,
stability control, hill-descent
control, trailer-sway control
and more, so there are a raft
of obvious benefits when it
comes to everyday driving
compared to an old-school
vehicle with nothing bar a
couple of mechanical diff locks
to help you out when you turn
off sealed roads. But when it
comes to serious off-road bush
driving, are electronic traction
aids up to the job?
Electronic traction aids
all work on the brakes and
the vacuum reservoir, and
they have a finite time they
can operate for in really hard
Which one? It depends on your driving mix. I
mean, ultimately mechanical lockers, but for
FRASER
STRONACH convenience electronic stuff is fantastic.
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2 www.4X4australia.com.au
going, Moon said. Id much
rather have a mechanical diff
lock which is locked when you
press a button and unlocked
when you repress the button.
Stronach agreed with the
sentiments and said that it
depends on your driving mix.
I mean, ultimately mechanical
lockers [for off-road use], but
for convenience electronic stuff
is fantastic.
When it comes to traction
aids, it seems you can now
truly have your cake and eat it
too. Many modern four-wheel
drives are now available from
the manufacturers with both
electronic traction control and
a mechanically locking rear
differential as standard.
The ultimate is the DOUBLING UP
combination of both, Having access to both traditional
Raudonikis said. Electronic mechanical kit and electronic
traction control gives you traction aids offers the best of both
everyday driving around gravel worlds, and is the ideal situation.
roads, and for this it works
really well. But having the
ability to switch on a locker
for when the going gets tough
works far better traction
control will only get you so far.
With newer vehicles were
getting more lockers from
the factory, plus you can have
aftermarket ones, and thats
the best combination, he said.
Youve only got to go back 10
years or so when the one-tonne
utes didnt have electronic
traction control in them, and
they were totally useless.
LOW-PROFILE VS
HIGH-PROFILE TYRES
ONE of the easiest ways for
manufacturers to improve a
vehicles on-road handling is
by eliminating the vagaries
of tyre sidewall flex by fitting
large-diameter wheels with
low-profile rubber. Another
advantage of this is they can
fit bigger brakes within the
confines of large diameter
rims, essential for big, heavy
vehicles with engines that
produce once-unimaginable
power and torque peaks.
But low-profile tyres are not
good off-road; they are prone
to sidewall damage, and the
lack of space between the
wheel and the ground can
result in damage to the wheel.
Additionally, theres not a hell
of a lot of choice when it comes
to low-profile off-road rubber.
While an old-school high-
profile tyre will exhibit more
sidewall flex when cornering
on the road, the off-road
benefits are many. There is
less chance of damaging a
wheel, less chance of sidewall
damage, better bagging of
the tyre when air pressure is
reduced to aid off-road traction
in slippery conditions such
as sand and mud, and a much
better choice of tyre for off-
road conditions.
As Nissan has
proven, you
All the new tyre spec
on most vehicles is bloody dont have to
go low prole
hopeless, Stronach said. In
the bush you want as much
to have big
sidewall as you can get, light
truck construction and a low
wheels
speed rating; you dont need
a high-speed rating because
high-speed tyres are built
more fragile [lighter NISSAN Y62
construction for better heat
dissipation], even though that
seems like a contradiction in
terms. Up to 17s and 18s are
fine now, but anything north of
an 18-inch wheel and your tyre
choice and bush practicality
goes out the door.
With ever-increasing on-road
performance and demands
for better on-road handling,
the vehicle manufacturers
are not going to revert to 15-
and 16-inch wheels on their
modern high-tech 4WDs, but
its still possible to run decent
rubber with a larger diameter
wheel. As Nissan has proven,
you dont have to go low
profile to have big wheels,
Raudonikis said. Theyve got
18-inch wheels on the [Y62]
Patrol and its got a big, heavy
sidewall on it; up to an 18-inch
wheel is probably as tall as
you want to go, but 16s are still
better for off-road use.
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143
GEAR HIGH-TECH VERSUS OLD-SCHOOL

ELECTRONIC INJECTION OLD OR NEW?

For heading well and truly off

VS MECHANICAL INJECTION
the beaten track, old-school
mechanical injection is best as it
can be fixed just about anywhere.

WHEN it comes to engine Now you mightnt be able

technology the only way you
can keep it simple is to buy
secondhand. All new vehicles
have high-tech, electronically
controlled engines in order to
meet emissions legislation.
Unfortunately theres no
real question here. Because of
emissions regulations youve
got to have the high-tech
engine, Stronach said.
For fixability, if youve got
an old-school mechanical
diesel then youre right, but
theres not many of them
around; you cant buy them,
theyre all worn out or theyre
getting worn out.
While modern, high-tech
and electronically controlled
engines are generally far
more reliable than their
mechanically injected
counterparts, thats of no
consolation if something goes
wrong in the bush.
In 45 years of touring the
country, the only time Ive
ever had to be recovered
was when an electronic box
failed, Moon said.
There was just no way we
could get that to work and I
had to get recovered.
Prior to that, somebody
in the group has always been
able to fix [any mechanical
problem], continued Moon.
to get it working perfectly,
but you can get the thing to
run... especially with a diesel
thats got a fairly basic pump
system and basic injectors. I
carry a spare set of injectors
if anything like that happens
or if I get a gutful of crook
fuel, but with electronics
the fuel has got to be really
good these days. And
thats the thing, just the
quality of fuel has got to
be better for these high-tech
engines, and any sniff of
water or anything like that,
that really stuffs them.
Raudonikis agreed that
traditional mechanical
injection is the best
solution for remote-area
outback travel. It is,
yeah, you can get it fixed
almost anywhere, he said.
Its easier to diagnose, and
if you cant do it yourself
most bush mechanics can;
they can diagnose it and fix
it, or at least jury rig it to
keep you on the road. You
give them the electronic stuff
and they dont even have
the equipment to diagnose
it. Electronics can be more
reliable, they keep going
longer and require less
servicing, but when they do
go wrong youre screwed.

HIGH-TECH
Car Assessment Program) While only the Single Cab a traditional 4WD without
safety rating, it quickly variant, popular with mining losing the dependable off-
cops a thorough bashing companies et al, scores the road capability.

SAFETY
STRINGENT vehicle safety
standards have had a
massive impact on the
demise of many traditional
4WDs and have influenced
how modern vehicles are
designed, developed,
manufactured and marketed.
These days, if a vehicle
doesnt achieve a five-star
ANCAP (Australian New
by the general press and
throughout motoring media.
While most modern
high-tech 4WDs achieve
a five-star ANCAP rating,
its almost unheard of for
a traditional 4WD with
a separate chassis and
live axles to meet this
standard until Toyota
threw big money at its
ageing 70 Series workhorse
to keep its commercial
customers happy.
five-star ANCAP rating, the
rest of the 70 Series range
(Wagon, Troopie and Double
Cab) have benefitted from
a raft of upgrades (ABS,
vehicle stability control,
active traction control, hill-
start assist control, brake
assist and electronic brake-
force distribution) to improve
safety. This is good for bush
tourers as the Land Cruiser
is one of the last options
available for those who want
I think the Land Cruiser
is a good blend of old and
new, said Raudonikis.
Toyota has done the
absolute bare minimum to
keep it on the road, but its
still what we need. It does
all the old-school things.
It has got live axles, its
capable off-road, its got
lockers, its got traction
control, its got some safety
features, but nothing you
dont really need.

144
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
 WELCOME TO YOUR
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GEAR HIGH-TECH VERSUS OLD-SCHOOL
A HIGH-TECH FUTURE?
SO WHAT does the future
hold for the traditional old-
school four-wheel driver? Well,
if youre a fan of a separate
chassis, live axles front and
rear, 7.50R16 rubber and a
mechanically injected diesel
engine, it doesnt look too
bright. In fact, the future for
diesel engines is starting to
look quite dim altogether,
with ever-stricter emissions
regulations being touted
around the world.
Were bound to see more
turbo-petrol engines coming
in, predicted Stronach.
Probably petrol engines in
general, and probably even
some bigger capacity ones.
Its just the way the emissions
regulators have really changed
sides on this whole debate,
having gone from having
diesels solving the problems of
greenhouse gas to the petrol
engine... generally small
capacity, either turbocharged
or supercharged... being better
on NOx and particulates,
the two problems that beset
diesels.
How will this affect the
bush tourer? Who knows?
questioned Stronach. Theres
a lot up in the air with forward
emission regulations. I guess
if youre going to go touring in
146
6 www.4X4australia.com.au
your petrol [four-wheel drive]
youll just need a bigger fuel
tank. Some of the modern
vehicles arent too bad the
Haval H9 tested on 4x4 Of The
Year wasnt too thirsty.
The seven-seat Haval H9
wagon has a high-tech 2.0-litre
direct-injection four-cylinder
turbocharged petrol engine
that makes a respectable
160kW and 324Nm. It
averaged 14.9L/100km on our
4X4OTY test, which included
a mix of on- and off-road
driving (the LC79 Double
Cab used 13.8L/100km under
the same conditions). And
Haval has stated that it sees
only petrol engines in its
future model range.
Haval has come out and
said its not going to build
diesel engines, Raudonikis
said. There are more
European countries where
its very hard to keep diesel
engines on the road and the
manufacturers have already
come out saying its going
to get too expensive to keep
updating diesel engines
to meet emissions. So the
modern petrol engines, with
their direct injection and
low-blow turbochargers, are
making up that gap in terms
of the torque down low.
Theyre much more drivable
than the small, peakier petrol
engines of old, but they still
dont have that long-distance
drivability of a diesel engine.
Fuel vaporisation in petrols
isnt the problem it used to be
with carburettored engines.
Is the end nigh for the
diesel engine? I was just
reading a piece about London
trying to ban diesels coming
into the city, full stop, Moon
said. I wouldnt like to see it;
diesel is the preferred
fuel for outback travel,
especially remote outback
travel. Petrol engines might
become more efficient as time
goes on, but generally with
low-speed work you tend to
get better [economy] with a
diesel... and diesel is also a
lot safer fuel to handle when
youve got it in drums.
Hybrid vehicles and full
electric vehicles have already
made an appearance on
Australian roads, but this
technology is unlikely to
become commonplace in four-
wheel drives at least in the
foreseeable future.
Were yet to see any of
that stuff yet, purely because
theyre not reliable and
capable enough off-road,
Raudonikis said. Land Rover
has got a bit of hybrid stuff
happening, but no one has
done any serious off-road
touring with one. Yeah, its a
real worry, its a big worry. Its
something you dont want to
go near.
Stronach is also adamant
that hybrid technology is not
suited to four-wheel drives at
this point in time, and he cant
see a future in the technology
for bush tourers.
I think hybrids are a bit
of a dud technology, he said.
They work around town, but
in terms of touring theyre
a non-event. I dont think
theyll have any impact on 4x4
designs. I mean, theyll sell a
few hybrids for people who
want to drive them around
town, as Range Rover does,
but I cant see it having any
real effect.
And I dont think well
have to worry about
autonomous cars if youre
going to ask about that, too,
laughed Stronach.
HYBRID RANGE
ROVER
Only Range Rover has shown
the smarts to trial its hybrid
powertrains off-road.
 KEEP UP WITH
4X4 AUSTRALIA
WHEREVER YOUR ADVENTURES TAKE YOU

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 EXPLORE
078
PORT MACQUARIE & HAT
HEAD NATIONAL PARK

SEACHANGE WORDS RUSS RYAN PHOTOS RUSS RYAN & TRISH MELODY

Hugging the coast from Port Macquarie to the stunning Hat Head National Park.

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www.4X4australia.com.au 1
149
 A
EXPLORE PORT MACQUARIE & HAT HEAD NATIONAL PARK

USTRALIA is home to some of the best coastal

drives on the planet and, just a couple of hours
drive north of Sydney, one of these drives will lead
you to a spectacular campsite in the Hat Head
National Park.
This beach-hugging adventure starts just north
of Port Macquarie and incorporates beach and
unsealed roads. The amazing diversity of the
coastal track north of Port Macquarie is definitely a
well-kept secret, with the track beginning once you
dismount the ferry at Settlement Point Ferry North.
This trip introduces travellers to a number of
stunning natural attractions, as well as some low-
range action, before arriving at the perfect coastal
A ferry ride across the
campsite known as Hat Head National Park. Have
Hasting takes you to
the start of the track. your camera at the ready as this route is home to
dingoes, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, reptiles and a
variety of bird species.
The journey begins by catching a ferry from Settlement
Point across the Hasting River to the North Shore. After
the ferry ride that lasts only a couple of minutes follow the
signposts to Plomer Road, which leads to Point Plomer. You
have two choices here: you can either take the beach drive, or
the track that runs parallel to the beach behind the dunes. We
decided to take the Point Plomer Track behind the beach as
we had planned to tackle some of the Killick Beach further
up the coast.
The Point Plomer Track is a narrow, soft sand track with a
few large potholes thrown into the mix. As you drive along
youll notice some opportunities to veer off to the right to
y
access the beach, and if you have the time on your side you
a
ac
should definitely check out some of the spectacular beaches
along this route so have an air compressor at the ready.
Keep an eye on low-slung branches that overhang the

Utilising the rotisserie

kit for a well-earned
feast of roast chook.

150
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THE COASTAL TRACK Information board at
Limeburners Creek

NORTH OF PORT
Nature Reserve.

MACQUARIE IS A
WELL-KEPT SECRET
track, as theyll scrape the side of your vehicle if you get too
close. There are also some deep depressions along the track
with not much room to skim around them; these are fine when
dry, but in wet conditions these depressions can quickly fill
with water and cover the full width of the track. Take your
time in wet conditions and you shouldnt have any dramas in
a standard 4WD. The Point Plomer Track runs for 12km before
finally arriving at the beach and campsite at Point Plomer. The
camping ground here is located right beside the beach.
After Point Plomer continue hugging the coastline until
you reach the Limeburners Creek Nature Reserve, and if you
have time, check out Saltwater Lake and the nearby rainforest.
There are also plenty of interesting sites along this track to
pull over for a cuppa and admire the beautiful coastline one Youve got to love
of these spots is just to the right of the Limeburners Reserve campsite fire pits...
information sign. and roast chicken.
Point Plomer Track continues to run through the scrub
behind the long, narrow Goolawah Lagoon, and after a few
kilometres it arrives at the Goolawah Beach which looks out
at the Tasman Sea part of the South Pacific Ocean. In the
distance you will see the huge water tank overlooking the
5km-long beach at Crescent Head. Along this beach youre also
likely to see plenty of fishermen chancing their luck as they
cast their rods from the comfort of the shore.
The town of Crescent Head has a real chilled-out feel about
it, with a tidy population of about 1100. If you have time, drive
up to the large water tower in the town, which provides great
views of the Goolawah National Park, Killick Beach and Hat
Head National Park in the distance.
A couple of kilometres out of town we took the signposted
right-hand turn for Richardsons Crossing, the entry point to
the impressive Killick Beach, an 11km low-range beach run that

www.4X4australia.com.au 1
151
EXPLORE PORT MACQUARIE & HAT HEAD NATIONAL PARK

Surfers come from far
and wide to try their
luck at Killick.
will take you all the way to the Hungry Gate Campground.
Youll need to get a permit to access Killick Beach from the
Crescent Head campground/information office. If you happen to
have a surfboard on your 4WD then youre in the right place, as
this area is also an international hot spot for surfing.
It is advisable to check out tidal times before tackling Killick
Beach, as you dont want to be rushing late in the evening on
a quiet beach as the tide is making its way in. Remember, you
have 11km of beach driving ahead, so keep that in mind before
going onto the beach late in the evening. We learned this from
experience, as we had left it a bit late before reaching Killick
Beach and it was a bit of a rush trying to make sure we made
it to our camp ahead of the incoming tide. We didnt get the
chance to enjoy the beach run as we were too busy wiping
the sweat from our brows in an attempt to reach the end of
the beach. With that said, Killick Beach is a striking white-
sand beach backed by large sand dunes, and its important to
maintain momentum even if you arent in a rush as it can be
pretty soft in parts.
After plodding along we were relieved to see the exit point to
reach our campsite. Its a good idea to put down the foot as you
approach the exit, as it can be a bit tricky with soft sand and a
bit of an incline. Upon exiting the beach youll be close to the
Hungry Gate Campground in the Hat Head National Park
our final destination on this short coastal trip.
Within a couple of minutes of leaving the beach we
reached the campsite, an open area with a spacious feel thats
protected from the ocean by large sand dunes and thick
vegetation. There are also some hidden corners where you
can hide away from the main camping area, and we parked
the Land Rover in a sheltered area behind the dunes under
a large gum tree. You are never far from civilisation on this

Casting a line from the

KILLICK BEACH IS
shores of Killick Beach
on the hunt for tucker.

AN INTERNATIONAL
HOT SPOT FOR
SURFING

152
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TRU-FIT
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EXPLORE PORT MACQUARIE & HAT HEAD NATIONAL PARK
TRAVEL PLANNER
STAYING THERE
We camped at the Hungry Gate
Campground, which is located right
beside the beach and is protected
by the parks unspoiled sand dunes.
The area is surrounded by thick
heath and woodland vegetation.
Bring drinking water as there are only
basic amenities. GPS: Latitude 31 4
47.172S Longitude 153 2 31.452E
TRACK CONDITIONS
POINT PLOMER TRACK: Conditions
vary significantly depending on the
weather. The sand can get soft in
places, though you should have no
issues with a standard 4WD. The real
fun on this trip is the beach driving,
and like all beach driving you should
come well prepared for the conditions.
KILLICK BEACH: The northern entry
point on Killick Beach to the Hat Head
campsite can be a challenge for any
skill level, particularly at low tide, so
The rooftop tent is set
up at Hat Head, so its
time for a breather.
154
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
make sure you adjust tyre pressures.
Maintain momentum as you drive
along this beach as it is soft in parts;
it is advisable to keep the momentum
going in order to avoid any chance of
stalling. Also check the tidal times.
FUEL & SUPPLIES
Fuel is available at Port Macquarie,
Crescent Head, Hat Head and South
West Rocks. Port Macquarie has
a major town centre and all the
necessary supplies youll need can be
obtained here. Crescent Head also has
facilities, while Hat Head has limited
services that extend to a pub and a
service station for fuel.
TRAVEL DISTANCES
Port Macquarie is 388km from Sydney
and 550km from Brisbane.
MAPS
The Port Macquarie Tourist Centre
provides a detailed beach map.
RESTRICTIONS AND PERMITS
Beach permits for the financial year
(July 1 to June 30) are available for a
fee and cover the Kempsey, Hastings
and Nambucca Shires. A current
registration number is required when
requesting a Beach Permit. They
can be purchased from the councils
customer service centre.
They may also be purchased from
Crescent Head Caravan Park, Grassy
Head Caravan Park, Hat Head Caravan
Park, Hat Head General Store, South
West Rocks General Store, South West
Rocks Service Station, South West
Rocks Bait Marine and Tackle, and
Stuarts Point Caravan Park.
Note: if you intend to purchase from
these outlets, it may be worthwhile
confirming that they have them in
stock first.
For more information on how
to access permits, check out the
Kempsey Shire website:
www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au
track, but you can feel isolated and very much away from it
all and that makes this place even more special.
The Hungry Gate Campsite is a bit of a gem; its quiet,
secluded and offers fire pits and plenty of space. After setting
up camp it was on with the fire and out with the rotisserie for
a well-deserved dinner of roast chicken washed down with a Wildlife abounds on
couple of cold beers. We pitched up here for two nights and this beachside route,
enjoyed some chill-out time, a spot of fishing and some tasty so drive with caution.
camp cooking.
If you decide to tackle this route in the near future dont
forget recovery gear and a shovel you dont want to get Educating the kids on
stuck when the tide is coming in. Also, allow for extra fuel what animals to steer
as you will burn more fuel than normal while driving on the clear of in the bush.
beach. Many of the campsites along this coastal route rely
on honesty boxes, so bring change. Insect repellent is a must
as the mozzies can be a bit of a pain around some of the
campsites, particularly in summer heat.
Other than that, simply enjoy what this little part of the
world has to offer. Fish along Limeburners Nature Reserve,
stroll through the rainforest canopy at Sea Acres Nature
Reserve, and stop and take some time out to enjoy the many
beautiful beaches and headlands youll pass along Point
Plomer Track.
With a number of options for great fishing, beach driving
and bush-type camping, this adventure has all of the
ingredients for a cracking weekend away in your 4WD.

PORT MACQUARIE AND HAT HEAD NATIONAL PARK, NSW

www.hemamaps.com

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155
 F B 0 9 1 3 _ A M_ P i r a n h a - 1 2 0 1 3 - 0 7 - 1 8 T1 7 : 0 3 : 4 3 + 1 0 : 0 0

ElEctronic Dual
BattEry
FIND YOUR BEARINGS
ManagEMEnt WITH OUR AUSTRALIAN
MADE GASKETS.

UNEEK OFF ROAD ACCESSORIES

Ph: 1300 80 69 52 F B 0 8 1 3 _ A M_ Ma x t r a x - 1 2 0 1 3 - 0 6 - 1 3 T1 6 : 3 4 : 3 6 + 1 0 : 0 0
1300 888 444 terraintamer.com
www.uneek4x4.com.au

REDUCE BODY TT266_TT_Gaskets_60x60_v1.indd 1 3/11/2016 4:04 PM

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Dont risk an inferior knockoff. Insist on the genuine
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Please visit us @
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TT107_SmartCoils_60x60_4x4Aust_v2.indd 1 16/06/15 1:08 PM

PROMOTE YOUR
AUSTRALIAN MADE
PRODUCTS HERE
ASK US HOW
Contact Peter Gatti
p: 0437 895 600
e: Peter.Gatti@bauertrader.com.au
 THE AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE 4X4 MARKET HAS A RICH AND PROUD HERITAGE. FOR YEARS LOCAL DESIGN, INGENUITY
AND MANUFACTURING HAS CREATED MANY FANTASTIC FOUR WHEEL DRIVE RELATED PRODUCTS.
AT 4X4 AUSTRALIA WE ARE PROUD TO SHOWCASE AND SUPPORT TRULY AUSTRALIAN ENGINEERED AND
MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS - HERE ARE A FEW AUSSIE MANUFACTURERS KEEPING THE DREAM ALIVE,
HELPING TO KEEP THE LOCAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY THRIVING AND KEEPING PEOPLE IN REAL JOBS.
SO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL AUSSIE MADE PRODUCTS.

THIS MONTH WE TALK TO DENIS DWYER FROM

P I R A N H A O F F R OA D

Describe your business.
As a Melbourne based manufacturer and
distributor for the range of Piranha Off Road
products, we are best known for our Dual
Battery Management System along with
camp lighting, recovery equipment, fridge
slides, lighting looms and power shower.
Tell us some of the history of
your company:
Piranha Off Road started out back in the 1980s
as Piranha Ignition Systems. This company
focussed on upgrading existing distributor/point
systems with the then new electronic ignition.
Naturally, the technology became common place
and by then Alan Johnsons established interest
in 4WD eventually led to the development of the
electronic dual battery system in 1987. At the
time the market was confined to mechanical
parallel switching. From the success of the Dual
Battery system the Battery Tray grew as a natural
progression and now Piranha manufacture over
140 different trays to suit most of the 4WDs
on the market. The business continued to grow
with the addition of other 4WD specific products
that has seen the Piranha business grow to a
national brand with distribution across Australia.
Where is the company at now?
Piranha Off Road has firmly established its
presence in the market place as a supplier
of Australian manufactured specialist
4WD products. Based in Boronia, Victoria,
Piranha products are now distributed around
Australia via a network of Piranha authorised
dealers. The dealer network, including
the Boronia head office, not only supply
products but now actively install all Piranha
products. In fact the workmanship combined
with the quality products can provide a total
solution for the active 4WD touring market
of vehicles and camper trailer/caravans.
What is your companies or products unique
selling point?
Buying product from Piranha off Road
ensures you are buying products that have
been manufactured by Piranha to the
highest quality standards or have been
selected by Piranha on the basis they are
the best we can recommend. The Piranha
manufactured products are built with 4WD
application in mind and are thoroughly
tested within that application. When
you come to talk to the Piranha people
about your needs you are talking to 4WD
enthusiasts who use Piranha products and
will proudly show you the products on their
own vehicles. Products built to suit the
application will last longer and be reliable
when you are touring this land of sweeping
plains.
If you could say only two words about
your product or service, what would
that be?
Proven, Reliability.
What makes you different from your
competition?
When you purchase a Dual Battery system
from Piranha Off Road you are buying a
system solution. This is a proven blend
of especially developed products to work
in harmony with your modern vehicle
electronics. Right down to exact cable
diameters to ensure all components work
together. Backed up by a 5 year Australia
Wide warranty when the system is installed
by a Piranha trained technician.
What products are you developing now?
Advanced technology Dual Battery isolator with
the ability to regulate a 100 watt solar panel. It
will also be capable of being an ignition sense
unit or voltage sense. A brand new approach to a
touring kitchen, that attaches to a Piranha fridge
slide and becomes the 30 Second Kitchen. A
culinary centre right in the back of your 4WD!
Who uses your products?
Piranha products are used extensively by the
4WD touring market along with the camper
trailer caravan market. While these are the
most common user channels there is also
the specialist areas like, marine, forestry,
mining and trade vehicles. The Piranha
wheel chains for commercial use are being
used in the Congo, Africa, mining operations
in WA and Qld and some of our products
have made their way to Siberia!
What is your greatest achievement?
Supplying, competitively priced Australian
Manufactured battery trays, while
maintaining the wide range of 140 different
product codes. This is the widest range of
battery trays available in Australia today to
enable dual battery systems to be fitted to
your 4WD. Using Australian supplied steel
and local electro-plating facilities we are
proud to supply this high quality product
to not only 4WD resellers but vehicle
dealerships, auto electricians and the
mechanical repair outlets.
 gear
PRODUCT TESTS & NEW STUFF
SECURE SHELTER
SHELTER from Mother Natures wrath awaits beneath ARBs
new 2.5m x 2.5m awning, which is encased in anodised
aluminium housing. ARBs proven 300gsm, PU-coated,
waterproof and UV-protected canvas is used in tandem with
an abrasion-resistant material that protects the awning
when rolling it out. Other features include UV-treated,
marine-grade, quick-release cords; anodised aluminium
poles with nylon cuff joins; and metal cam locks.
Website: www.arb.com.au

CLUTCH SHOT
GIVEN your rig a GVM upgrade, e,
power upgrade or carrying more ore
weight? Perhaps you drive an
armoured truck? Either way, your
clutch is now probably your cars
ars
weakest point. Never fear, the e
boffins at Terrain Tamer have
released a Fortified Clutch
thats perfect for such vehicles
es
and can theoretically provide
up to an 80 per cent increase
in torque. The clutch disc
design utilises a unique
combination of Velvetouch
ceramic material on the
engine facing and organic
material on the transmission
facing, while the cover assembly bly
features a spheroidal graphite e
anti-burst pressure-plate casting.
ting.
Its available for a range of Toyota,
yota,
Nissan and Mitsubishi models. s.
Website: www.terraintamer.com.auom.au
RRP: From $1000

158
8 www.4X4australia.com.au
VICTORY!
A JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES tool can be a remote-area
tourers best friend when your adventure takes a turn
for the worse. Victorinoxs recently launched SwissTools
multi-tool is manufactured to tackle all obstacles thrown
your way. Two variations are available the SwissTool BS
(29 functions) and the SwissTool Spirit XBS (27 functions)
and theyre made using a black-burnished steel.
Functions include a wirecutter, screwdriver, can opener,
saw, ruler, corkscrew and lock release. The units weigh
less than 300g and come in a nylon belt pouch.
Website: www.victorinox.com
RRP: $349 (Spirit XBS); $359 (BS)

BARRED UP
THE 2017 4X4OTY-winning
Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series
can now be enhanced via a TJM
Outback Bar. To complement
the Cruisers tough aesthetics,
the bar has been designed
to seamlessly blend with the
updated design. Features
include 63mm tubing, steel
construction, full cato straps,
8000kg rated recovery points,
integrated LEDs, flush steel-
mounted LED combo lights,
reinforced recovery jack points,
and an integrated winch mount.
Website: www.tjm.com.au

www.4X4australia.com.au 1
159
gear
PRODUCT TESTS & NEW STUFF

HAWK EYE
BUSHRANGER 4x4 has added two new Night Hawk
LED Light Bar lengths to its range 20.5in and 43.5in.
This now means the choice of LED Light Bars ranges
from 5.5in to 51.0in. The new single-row LEDs are
available in both Combo and Flood Beam patterns. The
highly efficient Osram 3W LEDs provide high intensity
light output and have a life span of up to 50,000 hours.
The lights come with a three year warranty. For a full
list of features, head online.
Website: www.bushranger.com.au
RRP: $245 (20.5in); $475 (43.5in)

POWER SURGE
CONTROL, manage and charge power more reliably with
CTEK charges from Bainbridge Technologies. The CTEK
D250SA and CTEK SMARTPASS 120 are designed to work
independently but when combined deliver a massive
140Ah to service batteries while youre on the move. Full
details available online.
Website: www.baintech.com.au
RRP: $499.43(CTEK D250SA); $531.25 (SMARTPASS 120)

PIRANHA ATTACK
TO MAXIMISE the effectiveness of high-output
LED lighting an equally effective wiring loom
is necessary, so Piranha Off Road Products
developed an LED-specific wiring loom that
still gives owners the ability to mount the lights
practically anywhere on their rig. 100 per cent
Australian made, the LIDL3 LED loom includes a
40amp relay. Lights will only be as good as the
wiring that carries the power to that globe, Alan
Johnson, MD of Piranha, said.
Website: www.piranhaoffroad.com.au
RRP: $65

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 A SPADES A SPADE
A SHOVEL canca be an extremely
valuable tool on a remote
adventure, so any serious tourer
should have one
o stored away.
The trick is to not have one
that takes up too much space.
Enter the versatile
ver and compact
Rhino-Rack Spade.
S The shovel,
SAFE SEATS
ITS ALL well and good having all of the best kit fitted to
measuring in at 1065mm long,
your 4x4, but it wont be much fun if you aint sitting pretty
features a slip-resistant
sli rubber
on a comfortable and safe pew. MSA 4x4 seat covers are
grip, dual-core
dual-cor construction
ADR compliant, meaning the factory airbags deploy as
and a heavy duty,
d heat-treated,
intended. The canvas seat cover looks good, feels good
hi-carbon steel
ste blade. Plus its
and works in harmony with a vehicles safety features. The
zinc-plated and
a powdercoated
durable seat covers come with a lifetime warranty and are
to increase strength
s and protect
available from all good 4x4 outlets.
it from rust.
Website: www.msa4x4.com.au
Website: www.rhinorack.com.au
www
RRP: $367
RRP: $49

FUEL TANK
IRONMAN 4x4 has completed the design of
its Nissan NP300 Navara long-range diesel
fuel tank. The 140-litre tank, designed
to give maximum fuel capacity without
affecting ground clearance and departure
angles, is manufactured from 2mm
aluminised steel. It is also MIG welded and
powdercoated.
Website: www.ironman4x4.com.au
RRP: $885

www.4X4australia.com.au 1
161
 gear
ENGINE TECH EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATORS
RISKY BUSINESS
ARE EGRs RUINING MODERN ENGINES? IT COULD
COST YOU A $30,000 FINE TO FIND OUT.
I
N A WORLD where free information
WORDS AND PHOTOS DAN EVERETT
reigns supreme, its often difficult to find
the diamonds in the crap. All it takes is a
quick search online to find thread after
thread of ill-educated opinions sprouting
off some nonsense about whatever happens
to be the latest trend in internet-land. $30
canvas seat covers apparently as good as
Aussie-made gear, humongous suspension
lifts thatd rival Goliath in terms of size
and likelihood of failure, and the latest
162
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before and
after
Carbon build-up on an intake
is like lung cancer for your
engine and can make the
engine work harder and
struggle for air.
hair-brained idea that seems to be gaining
momentum faster than a rich, old billionaire
removing emissions equipment for such
incredibly valuable reasons such as it
sounds better and me mate did it and
loves it. Itd almost be comical if it wasnt
having a serious effect on engine longevity.
What were referring to is the growing
trend of tampering with and removing
important emissions systems such as
Exhaust Gas Recirculators (EGR) and Diesel
Particulate Filters. To get to the bottom of
it weve gone straight to the source, with
three of the best diesel experts all throwing
their weight into an on-going battle
between good and evil, the underdog and
the all-powerful government, and internet
modifications and common sense. Enrolled
this month are Andrew Leimroth from
Berrima Diesel, Paul Farrell from Geelong
Performance Centre, and Stephen Booth
from PowerTorque Victoria.
 Quality catch cans
have a replaceable
filter inside them.

MANUFACTURERS HAVE THEIR FEET HELD

TO THE FIRE IN A BID TO REDUCE EMISSIONS
UNDERSTANDING
EMISSIONS SYSTEMS
WE ARE big proponents of the internal
combustion engine around here. Theyre
fantastic inventions that have given millions
of people the ability to travel long distances
with a load in relative comfort. That said,
they do have a downside, and if were
perfectly
Carbon build-up can
block engine intake by
as much as 50 per cent.
honest, its a real a doozy.
Forget all the back and forth about
climate change and emissions effects on
the earth, its a scientific fact that diesel
emissions cause lung damage, respiratory
problems, acid rains, smog, and cancer in
humans. Its a direct result of the various
emissions they produce such as Carbon
Monoxide (CO), Hydrocarbons (HC), Nitric
Oxide and Nitrogen Dioxide
(NOx), and soot or
Particulate Matter (PM).
Scary stuff, right?
It should be if you like
breathing. The good news
is manufacturers have
their feet held to the fire
by various agencies in a
bid to reduce emissions
and improve air quality.
Theyve been forced to do
this by implementing a few
now reasonably common
emission systems. The
two most types (of emission
control) are Exhaust Gas
Recirculation and catalytic
convertors, Andrew told us.
In more recent times Diesel
Particulate Filters (DPF) have also become
more common. These three systems all
work in varying ways. Catalytic convertors,
most commonly found in petrol 4x4s and
more recently in diesels, are used to convert
carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and
nitrogen oxides into less harmful carbon
dioxide, water and nitrogen. DPFs add
another layer of complexity, aiming to break
down large diesel particulates (soot) into
smaller, less harmful ash.
Paul added: Similar to a catalytic
convertor, a DPF removes diesel
particulates from the exhaust gas. There
are pressure sensors either side of the
DPF which are monitored by the vehicles
ECU. When the pressure gets high enough,
indicating a certain amount of blockage, the
ECU commands whats known as a burn.
The injection timing is retarded, which
heats the DPF to a very high temperature
and burns the particulates out of the DPF.
Another system known as SCR (selective
catalytic reduction) injects a mixture of
deionised water and urea, commonly known
as AdBlue, in a further attempt to reduce
diesel soot. Its mostly in the American
stuff, Stephen added. Theyre usually a
stage of emissions ahead of us.

www.4X4australia.com.au 1
163
GEAR EGR TECH
Once spent exhaust
gases mix with oily
residue, its a disaster.
Removing an EGR pipe
shows relatively harmless
carbon build-up.
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HOW AN EGR WORKS
WHILE most common emissions systems
are designed to deal with harmful
pollutants after theyve been made
filtering them out in various ways
EGR is designed to prevent them being
made in the first place. NOx is formed
when nitrogen and oxygen molecules
are present with temperatures north of
1500C and is responsible for the smog
often seen in cities, as well as acid rain.
As diesel engines rely on heat rather
than spark to ignite, NOx has been a
constant problem when talking diesel
emissions. One way manufacturers have
tried to curtail the production of NOx
is to lower combustion temperatures.
What an EGR does is effectively plumb
hot exhaust gas from the manifold back
into the intake, re-burning exhaust
gas. Paul said. The end result is less
emissions out of the tail pipe.
The net result of this is replacing
flammable oxygen with inert exhaust
gases, causing a colder combustion cycle
and lower levels of NOx formation.
However, things arent always how
they seem. Andrew brought up the
point that while the basic design of an
EGR system hasnt changed drastically,
their purpose has. EGR was about
NOx emissions before, but thats sort
of evolved with the new diesels having
much lower compression than old, he
said. Instead of running at around 450-
500psi theyre getting down as low as
the 300s using high pressure common
rail injection, precise timing and
multiple injections to get a good burn at
lower compressions. All of this results
in naturally lowered NOx emissions,
leaving the EGR there for efficiency
reasons rather than emissions.
GEAR EGR TECH
Even a brand new
engine will suffer
from blow-by.
THE BAD
ON PAPER an EGR sounds like a
pretty damn good piece of kit to have
on any 4x4, allowing the manufacturer
to control combustion temperatures,
reduce emissions, and do so with
minimal complexity. Why then are so
many people rushing to block off or
even remove these systems? Eventually
the EGR gunks up the intake system,
Stephen said. The combination of
oil and vapor combined in the inlet
manifold clogs it up. The oil vapor hes
referring to is caused by engine blow-by,
a completely separate operation in an
engine, but one that causes catastrophic
issues. Around each piston in an engine
are a series of piston rings, designed to
help seal the combustion chamber and
allow the forces of igniting diesel or
petrol to push down on the piston, rather
than past it. The problem is these rings
dont make a perfect seal.
As the engine runs through its strokes
small amounts of pressure are able to
escape past the piston rings and into
the lower half of the engine, pressuring
the crank case. To relieve this pressure,
With the EGR intact and an
oil-lined intake, every engine
is a ticking time bomb.
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6 www.4X4australia.com.au
manufacturers fit a breather to the top
of the rocker cover that allows the oil-
misted air to escape. Rather than this
misted air venting into the atmosphere
its plumbed into the intake, the result
is a thin film of oil coating the inside of
the intake manifold right through to the
WEVE SEEN
combustion chamber.
When the spent exhaust gases are
reintroduced to the intake they stick to
INTAKE PORTS
the oily residue and build up. With the
two of them combined its a recipe for
disaster, Andrew said.
BLOCKED TO LESS
The inlet manifold gets blocked up,
but its only because its all oily and
wet. If the EGR was by itself it wouldnt
happen anymore than you would see
THAN 50 PER
in an exhaust pipe. Its not really there
to recirculate the soot, but by the
nature of a diesel engine it does bring
CENT OF THEIR
them through.
Paul added that on his routine
services he often comes across clogged
ORIGINAL SIZE
intakes that require a full strip-down
to clean. Weve seen the intake ports
blocked down to less than 50 per cent of
their original size.
Oil blow-by is what
leaves a residue on the
walls of your intake.
 - 20
79 17
19

400

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CLUTCH
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Increase in damper spring capacity
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Increased burst strength of facing
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GEAR EGR TECH
Catch cans come from a
range of suppliers, such as
this unit from Flashlube.
WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?
RATHER than an EGR being the issue as
so many people believe, the problem is
the inlet manifold becoming clogged from
a build-up of oil residue and exhaust soot.
Remove either one and theres no longer
an issue. Luckily, one is a whole lot easier
to do than the other. Most people can get
away with fitting a decent catch can like a
ProVent to remove the oil vapor, Stephen
said. If thats done, most of the exhaust
gas soot goes straight through without
sticking to the inlet manifold.
Its worth mentioning there are varying
quality levels when it comes to catch cans,
with a price spectrum that ranges from
spare change to a few hundred dollars. On
the budget end is your typical alloy box
with an inlet and outlet. The problem is
these rely on magic to remove the oil from
the air, which isnt too successful and can
often have issues like reduced openings
that can cause a build-up of pressure
inside the engine. This can cause gaskets
and seals to blow out from the inside,
resulting in an engine literally pumping
its oil out the dipstick tube.
Contacts
BERRIMA DIESEL SERVICE Ph: (02) 4877 1256
W: www.berrimadiesel.com
GEELONG PERFORMANCE CENTRE Ph: (03) 5277 2503
W: www.geelongperformance.com.au
POWERTORQUE VIC Ph: 0417 558 799
W: www.facebook.com/powertorquevic
168
8 www.4X4australia.com.au
Quality items will generally run a
filter element, which will remove the
oil from the air as it passes through and
drastically cut down any oily residue in
the inlet track and prevent the exhaust
soot from building up. These filters are
often either plumbed back into the sump,
or are manually drained to remove the oil
build-up. To prevent over-pressurisation if
something is clogged, theyll often have a
pressure release system as well.
The other, more drastic approach is to
remove the EGR system itself. With no
exhaust soot going through the intake
system theres nothing to stick to the oily
residue. In simple engines this can be
achieved by physically installing a block-
off plate that will stop the gases flowing
through the system, although most
modern engines will register the block
and throw a fault code, possibly causing
your 4x4 to go into limp mode.
In many late-model vehicles a custom
tune can instead stop the valves from
ever opening, but that does come with
more issues than its worth.
Catch cans need to be
correctly plumbed into
the intake system.
THE REPERCUSSIONS
THERE are a few considerations youll
have to make when you find yourself
with that cheap block-off plate and a set
of screwdrivers in hand. The first and
most likely to make people pause for
consideration is warranty.
Most manufacturers are well within
their legal rights to knock back any
warranty claims that are even loosely
related to a modification youve made,
legal or otherwise. As the EGR system is
directly related to a turbocharger, failure
down the track could see you out of pocket
for any repairs, even unrelated problems
where the EGR removal shouldnt have
caused an issue can still see you in a battle
with Fair Trading to get things fixed.
From there the serious risks start. Sure,
youll cop an on-the-spot fine from Mr Plod
for driving a defective vehicle if youre
found, but there are much bigger things to
be concerned with than that.
The NSW Protection of the Environment
Operations (Clean Air) Regulation of
2010 states: The owner of a motor
vehicle who uses the motor vehicle, or
causes or allows it to be used, must ensure
that at the time of that use, any anti-
pollution device that has been fitted to
the motor vehicle has not been removed,
disconnected or impaired, or adjusted
or modified in such a way as to result in
the emission of excessive air impurities
by the motor vehicle.
The penalty that little piece of
legislation can net you is 200 penalty units
as an individual or up to 400 as a business.
Big deal, right? Well, it would be if penalty
units werent around $150 a piece in some
states. Thats a maximum fine of near on
$30,000 for blocking or removing your
EGR system or DPF from your exhaust.
Are you likely to get caught? Probably not,
but dont go bragging about it on social
media, either. At the end of the day there
are smarter ways to get the job done that
wont ruin you financially.
 DOES YOUR INSURER COVER
ALL YOUR MODS & ACCESSORIES?

Module Deluxe Bull Bar + Sliders BCDC 1225 Hi-View Gen 2 RTT
$1,500 Intensity AR32 Inverter, Gauges Eclipse Awning
OME 2 Lift Kit & Solar Blanket $2,400
Roof Basket $3,500
$6,500

9,000lb Winch Intercooler Kit 3 Exhaust UHF Radio + Antenna

$2,000 $2,800 $1,330 $430

General Insurer

2013 Y61 NISSAN PATROL ST $43,000 agreed value What sum insured
MODIFICATIONS & ACCESSORIES $27,000 inc. labour will your insurer
TOTAL SUM INSURED $70,000 provide you?

Visit CLUB4X4.COM.AU PROUD MEMBER OF

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Insurance for 4X4 enthusiasts Hollard, AR No.1235616. Consider the PDS at www.club4x4.com.au to decide if the product is right for you. Underwriting criteria apply.
 gear
PRODUCT TEST EXPLAINED: OFF-ROAD JACKS
JACKED-UP
THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE DOWNRIGHT
DANGEROUS. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
ABOUT OFF-ROAD JACKS.
T
HERES no RAA in Oodnadatta, no
RACV halfway up Billy Goats Bluff,
and youve got another thing coming if
you try and call the RACQ with a flat
WORDS AND PHOTOS DAN EVERETT
tyre at the bottom of Gunshot.
Its this reason we bang on about self-
reliance and maintaining a well-stocked
tool kit like a deranged bearded man
preaches the end is nigh. And while the
deranged bearded man might not hit the
mark, you can bet your bottom dollar
having the knowledge to get out of trouble
and the tools to do it has saved more
than a few lives on outback adventures.
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
jacks are often the first things people
bin when buying a new 4x4. Theyre seen
as underpowered, undersized and of
little benefit when you start installing
suspension lifts and larger tyres. They
often come in two varieties screw-type
or scissor jacks.
Scissor jacks earn their ridicule for
low safe working loads (SWL), flimsy
construction and low lift height, but screw
jacks are undeserving of the hate. Theyre
simple in operation, with a pinion gear
running against a crown wheel much like
a diff. As the pinion and crown wheel spin
they turn a worm gear, which pushes the
lifting plate up or pulls it down.
The benefits of a jack like this are
that theres very little that can go wrong
with them, and almost nothing that
170
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Were taking a look at one of the most
under-rated pieces of equipment in any
off-roaders kit the jack. Now its easy to
get excited over the latest laser-guided,
pneumatically operated mega jack, but
unless youre prepping your Prado to take
on the Baja 1000, tools like that are often
not the right tool for the job and will
seriously eat into the fuel funds.
Over the next few pages well be looking
at the pros and cons of the most typical
jacks youll find in any 4x4, from high-lifts
and exhaust jacks through to the stock one
currently under your back seat.
could cause instant failure under normal
operation. Due to being able to run one
worm gear inside of another they also
have a surprising amount of lift for such
a small package our one tested having
230mm of lift for a maximum extended
height of 420mm. Even with 35in tyres
a Cruiser or Patrols axle tubes will be a
maximum height of around 400mm, so the
stock jack with a 50mm-thick timber base
plate will still lift enough to change a tyre.
Unfortunately, life isnt all sunshine
and roses. Screw jacks often have limited
lifting capacity less than 2000kg, and
depending on how heavy your 4x4
is, lifting one end off the ground can
overload the jack. However, theyre
useful for lifting a wheel off the ground
to change a tyre, or as a press to replace
bearings in the field.
www.4X4australia.com.au 1
171
GEAR EXPLAINED OFF-ROAD JACKS

BOTTLE JACKS
OFTEN seen as an upgrade to the screw force over a smaller distance, and theyre
jack, hydraulic bottle jacks are one of the available in many sizes. Some can be
most common jacks youll see. Theyre optioned with angled V mounts to more
available in multiple SWLs, from as little securely grab an axle tube; although,
as 2000kg right through to 20,000kg; that will remove their ability to be used The most common type used
although, unless youre planning on as a press. Theyll serve as a suitable by four-wheelers, bottle jacks
balancing five fully loaded 4x4s on the replacement to an OEM jack, but whether are simple in operation.
one jack, those weights may be overkill. or not theyre
y an upgrade
pg is up
p for debate.
Much like a screw jack, hydraulic
bottle jacks are incredibly compact, often
occupying the spot the OEM screw jack
came in. Rather than a series of gears
inside, a bottle jack works by pumping
hydraulic fluid from the storage container
(the large bottle-shaped part) into the
chamber underneath the jacks ram.
The benefit of this over a screw jack is
the huge mechanical advantage you get,
making it easier to move heavy loads.
The downside is that due to their design
they arent able to lift as high as a screw
jack. Despite having a larger capacity
(10T) our bottle jack had a maximum
lift height of 480mm, with only 140mm
of available travel and a further 80mm
in the screw-top adjuster. Theyre also
considerably heavier than a screw-type
jack and are more difficult to lower due
to requiring the pressure release valve to
be cracked, rather than a second pump to
pump it out. Careful attention should also
be paid to not damaging the seals.
Bottle jacks provide a larger lifting

TROLLEY JACKS
WHEN it comes to heavy lifting, trolley jacks but 300mm is plenty when fitted with an Trolley jacks will get the job done
are often seen as the go-to option. Much like extension; although, due to the arc they quickly, so long as the 4x4 is
a bottle jack they work by pumping hydraulic operate on, the jack will need to roll freely parked on level ground.
fluid from one compartment to another. underneath to keep the 4x4 centred, which
Ironically enough, most trolley jacks employ can be difficult in rough terrain. Some
a bottle jack hidden underneath the main off-road-specific versions are becoming
arm to do the lifting. commercially available, and they offer skid
Trolley jacks are undoubtedly easier to plates to prevent them sinking in soft terrain
use on flat ground than either bottle or screw and have had their weight cut down to 20kg.
jacks. They trade lifting capacity for speed If youre planning on doing a lot of lifting
and can have a wheel jacked up and back and dont want to swing a jack handle for 20
down before a bottle or screw jack could even minutes, then a trolley jack is a great option,
reach the axle tube to start jacking. but you have to remember that you trade a
Lifting capacities range from 1400kg to lot of benefits for speed.
3000kg, and a longer reach allows you to
position the jack underneath the 4x4 without
having to get under there yourself. Due to
their large base theyre also far more stable
than most other options.
On the downside theyre incredibly bulky
and heavy, taking up considerable storage
space and theyll eat into your GVM. They
offer around 300mm of lift, which isnt much
when they start from as low as 130mm,

172
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GEAR EXPLAINED OFF-ROAD JACKS
HIGH-LIFTS
THE high-lift jack is almost a fashion choice
for many off-roaders, being firmly attached
to rear bars and roof racks with often very
little understanding of why its even there.
Unlike the previous jacks, a high-lift works
more like a ladder. The spine has holes along
its centre which allow the pins, or feet, of
the lifting mechanism to walk their way up.
With a long handle and very little distance
between holes, the mechanical advantage
is huge. Theyre generally rated at more
than 2000kg and offer great lifting heights.
They can also be used in a variety of other
roles such as a homemade press, tyre-bead
breaker, or even a make-shift winch if the
$50 special leaves you in the lurch.
The downside is theyre incredibly
unstable, and the jack handle has bested
more than a few jaw bones. Theyre also tall
and wont fit under the vehicle, so cant be
used to jack an axle tube up, instead relying
on slings or limiting straps to get it done.
Theyve become part of the overlander
uniform and its not without reason, they
just shouldnt be the go-to tool if you need to
change a tyre or work on your brakes. Think
of them as part of your recovery kit rather
than a jack and youll have years of success.
EXHAUST JACKS
EXHAUST jacks can be completely
useless in one tool kit and a god-send
in another. Their design and operation
is incredibly simple a heavy-duty
bag thats taller than it is wide slips
underneath the 4x4, while a connection
hose slips over the exhaust tip. As the
exhaust gases fill the bag it pushes
upwards, lifting your 4x4 off the ground.
Theyre lightweight and pack flat,
making them easy to store behind seats,
down the side of drawers or anywhere else
thats usually dead space. They also have
the largest base of all the jacks and are
able to easily conform to uneven terrain,
making them perfect in soft sand. Their
Exhaust jacks thrive on
soft surfaces like sand, but
struggle on rocky ground.
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A high-lift jack has the
ability to sucker-punch
you square in the face.
low profile also means you can easily slide
them under bogged vehicles.
They offer around 750mm of lift, which
is huge if youre bogged but not a great
deal if youre attempting to raise a lifted
4x4 off the rock sliders. Theyre also
rated up to around 4000kg, but arent
recommended for lifting underneath
axles or any sharp or hot objects. On the
downside they are vulnerable to damage,
arent easy to control up or down, and
have a very narrow range of uses.
If youre constantly travelling on sand
they can be an absolute life-saver. On
rocky or reasonably firm terrain theyll
rarely be the best option.
FIVE RULES TO
WORKING ON
A RAISED 4X4
1
A STABLE BASE
Unless youre lifting a can of coke with
a trolley jack, chances are youll be
putting a significant amount of weight
onto a concentrated point. High-lifts, bottle
jacks and screw jacks all benefit from a
base when lifting on anything other than
hard-packed dirt. They can also provide a
more stable platform that prevents the jack
from slipping.
2
THE RIGHT JACK
Dont use a high-lift jack when a
bottle jack will do, dont use a bottle
jack when you need a high-lift, and
dont use an exhaust jack if youre planning
on getting underneath the rig.
3
DONT BE AN IDIOT
Stop and think about what youre
doing. In even the most routine
jacking operation youre lifting a
tonne or two into the air and balancing it on
one shaft. What will happen if it comes off?
Axle stands and a set of wheel chocks are
an absolute must in any situation. If youre
out bush then at least throw the spare tyre
under the sill.
4
KEEP IT LOW
The higher you lift something, the
less stable itll be. Not just because
the 4x4 is higher, but because jacks
become less stable the higher theyre
wound up. It amplifies any movement at the
bottom and can quickly push the 4x4 off
the jack.
5
PREDICT THE
FUTURE
When you lift a 4x4 you change its
centre of gravity, whats holding it
in place, and how stable it is. Think about
what youll do and what effect it will have
on the rest of the 4x4. Will turning the wheel
youve just lifted off the ground force one of
the fronts to turn, rolling you off the jack?
Will jacking it up in the first place send it
careening downhill, warranting connecting
the winch line before you lift it? If youre on
your own changing a tyre youll still be on
your own if you roll your 4x4 or break your
tools, so use your noggin.
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 gear
PRODUCT TEST PRESSURE PERFECT

RATED
AVAILABLE FROM:
www.ruggedgroup.com.au
RRP: From $375
WE SAY: Simple and easy
to use.

BLOWIN HARD
AUSSIE INVENTION TAKES THE CHORE OUT OF ADJUSTING TYRE PRESSURES.

H
ERES another one of those clever driving conditions and protection of the stations, and it gives accurate and easy-
WORDS MATT RAUDONIKIS PHOTOS ELLEN DEWAR

Aussie inventions that leaves us
questioning why anyone didnt
think of this before?
Pressure Perfect takes the simple set-
and-apply tyre inflation system that you
use at service stations and puts it into
a compact unit that can be fitted to any
portable 12-volt air compressor or into
your 4x4 vehicle.
A 12-volt air compressor and a quality
tyre pressure gauge are two pieces of
kit any 4x4er should purchase. The
varied terrain we cover in 4x4s requires
different tyre pressures for optimal
tyres themselves, so it pays to keep tabs
on whats going on inside your tyres.
Designed and made in Melbourne,
the Pressure Perfect module can be
mounted directly to your compressor, or
in your engine bay or elsewhere on your
4x4. The module has an LCD readout
screen and simple up and down buttons
that can be used to set the desired
tyre pressure. When the set pressure
is reached, an audible beep loud
enough to be heard from the other side
of the vehicle sounds. This is just like
the systems you find in most service
to-use tyre pressure adjustment.
By linking the tyres on the vehicle
together you can adjust the pressure on
two or more of them at the same time.
However, the speed at which they pump
up is dependent on your compressor and
its capacity. A higher flowing compressor
is going to give you faster results.
We trialled a couple of Pressure
Perfect mobile units hooked up to an
ARB and a TJM compressor. Firstly, we
simulated dropping road pressures down
to 15psi, as you might for sand driving
set the display to 15psi, hook the hose up

176
6 www.4X4australia.com.au

Adapter allows multiple
lines to run to each tyre
simultaneously.
to the tyre and hit the start/stop button.
The module takes an initial reading to
see whats in the tyre before starting,
and then drops the pressure in stages
until the set pressure is reached.
Deflating one tyre at a time by this
method was tedious and certainly a lot
slower than we would normally spend
using a Currie-style EZ deflator that
pulls the guts out of the Schrader valve.
It made more sense with two tyres
hooked up at the same time, but it was
still slow it would be worthwhile doing
all four tyres at once.
Next we set the Pressure Perfect
module to a road setting and pumped a
tyre up. Again, the unit takes a pressure
The Pressure Perfect
unit can fit on any
12-volt compressor.
reading and then inflates the tyre to the
set pressure before letting you know its
there with a beep. It takes a little longer
than the compressor would without
using the Pressure Perfect module, but
that time is made up because youre
not stopping to check the pressure as
it inflates. And you dont have to squat
down by the tyre while its operating, so
its easy on old knees.
Hooking two tyres up at once took
a while to pump up, but as stated the
limiting factor is the output of the
compressor. A big pump like the ARB
twin set-up or one using a storage tank
would be quicker.
One of these units would be ideal
when mounted in a vehicle with a high-
output compressor and an air tank, and
you could then plumb multiple outlets
to two or even four tyres to get the most
of the hardware.
Youll want to make the most of it,
as the Pressure Perfect is not a cheap
piece of kit. Just the module alone sells
for $375 (or $425 when mounted in a
hard plastic case with all the hardware,
except the compressor itself).
Complete, ready-to-use portable
kits are available for $550 (with a 75L/
min compressor) or $730 (with a 150L/
min pump). There is a range of
accessories available for setting up your
own in-vehicle kit.
www.4X4australia.com.au 1
177
 gear
PRODUCT TEST SEA TO SUMMIT NOMAD DUFFLE

RATED
AVAILABLE FROM:
www.seatosummit.com.au
RRP: $179.95 (45L);
$199.95 (65L); $229.95
(90L); $249.95 (130L)
WE SAY: durable, easy to
access contents.

IN THE BAG
A UBIQUITOUS PIECE OF 4X4 TOURING LUGGAGE.
E.

T
HE duffle bag has been around for
many, many years and has remained
the popular choice for vehicle-borne
adventurers. This type of load-
lugger is popular for their basic design,
cavernous volume (for minimal weight),
as well as tough build and fabrics. Duffle
bags can be tied to a yak or donkey for a
climbing adventure, or just thrown in the
back of a 4x4.
Numerous brands have duffle bags in
their luggage range, and they all follow
a very similar design DNA a cylindrical
space with a small enclosure (lid) up top.
So its interesting to see highly regarded
Aussie brand, Sea To Summit, enter the
WORDS BY JUSTIN WALKER
applaud is the oversized lid. For those
used to shoving their hands in the (often)
smallish opening of their duffle and
scrabbling around blindly in the hope
of finding a particular item, this bags
large clam-shell-type lid opens to expose
most of the space inside, making access
far simpler. Access is made easier again
by the simple design tweak of using a
brightly coloured fabric inside, allowing
gear to be more easily spotted.
The Nomad is constructed using heavy-
duty nylon material, and features a
padded base and lid. There are external
compression straps and lash loops for
securing the duffle to a roof rack if
vehicle: a backpack-style harness, an
over-the-shoulder set-up, or just carrying
it with the two straps like a piece of
carry-on luggage. Two small magnets in
the handles mean you no longer have to
fiddle with Velcro tabs to secure them
together they just snap together once
each handle is close enough to the other.
Its simple but it makes a difference.
The 130-litre Nomad on test has proven
faultless over the past few months.
Nothing much can go wrong with a duffle
bag anyway, but little things like faster
joining of straps for carrying, the three-
way strap/harness system, and most
obviously the awesome large lid have

competitive duffle-bag market with its
Nomad. The designers at Sea To Summit
have definitely done their homework
with the Nomad duffle, addressing a
number of design points and aiming to
improve on them.
The most obvious new design feature
and one we reckon most people will
needed. The lid is also built tough, and a
dual-zipper ensures it wont break when
pulled or tensioned (or if the bags over-
packed) and aids in upping the security
of your gear inside.
The handles can be attached/detached
to suit three different carrying options
for when youre out and away from your
been much appreciated. Add in the
bombproof construction and I reckon the
Nomad will do excellent load-lugging
service for many years.
The Nomad is available in four sizes
(45L, 65L, 90L and 130L) and in three
colours (blue, orange and charcoal).
Its available now.

178
8 www.4X4australia.com.au
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A CHANGE OF HEART LANDS DEANO A STEAL.
ELL, I finally put my money
W where my mouth is. I found the
perfect Land Rover Series III the
other day on Gumtree restored,
neat body, hardly any rust, immaculate
interior, a load of accessories, and my
favourite light green with white roof. I
contacted the vendor and organised a
time to inspect said vehicle, which was
precisely 100km from my place according
to Google Maps.
Despite having three days notice, when
I arrived to have a look the vendor was
milling around the front of the Landy
trying to refit the battery, which hed
earlier had on the charger. Once the
battery was back in-situ and the cables
were attached, he tried to fire up the
engine, which he said hadnt been started
for five months or so. After turning over
a couple of times the little 2.25-litre four
came to life, with barely a puff of smoke
from the tailpipe so far so good. Then it
stopped. At this point the vendor told me
he probably should have put fuel in the
Landy the previous day but he hadnt.
He then headed off to the servo with a
jerrycan, leaving me behind, and didnt
return until about 30 minutes later.
The vendor fired up the Landy again
and I jumped in the passenger seat for
our first lap around the block. To show
me how effective the brakes were he
slammed them on as
180
0 www.4X4australia.com.au
bulldust
DEAN MELLOR
we exited his driveway, and my head
almost went through the windscreen. I
then, politely of course, suggested a little
warning might have been nice.
I jumped behind the wheel for our
second lap and was pleasantly surprised
by how well the little Landy handled and
rode; it was certainly much better than
my old Series IIA. When we returned I put
an offer on the table, telling the vendor
precisely what I though the car was worth.
Despite his Gumtree advertisement
stating the price as negotiable, no
negotiating took place. He simply refused
my offer and bade me farewell.
As I drove away I started to wonder if
Id let a good Landy get away, but then I
reminded myself that the apparently non-
negotiable price was simply too high. I
would keep looking.
I had a change of heart when I again
started perusing Gumtree a few days
later. No, I didnt go back and buy the
non-negotiable Series III. I instead
spotted a 1994 Defender 110 Wagon up on
the Sunshine Coast with a price tag that
seemed too good to be true. I called the
vendor, was assured that the Defender
drove beautifully and arranged to
meet at Sunshine Coast Airport at
11.05am the following day.
I live in Wollongong, so my day began
at 6am when a mate kindly gave me a lift
to the train station. I arrived at Sydney
Airport with an hour or so to spare
before my flight to
Queensland was due to depart, so I found
a little caf that did a wicked bacon and
egg brekky along with a decent coffee.
Despite its reputation the Jetstar team
almost managed to get the flight off the
ground as scheduled, and we were only
about 10 minutes behind when we landed
on the Sunshine Coast.
Now, whenever I put a car on the
market I make sure its as clean as it
possibly can be. You know washed,
polished, vacuumed and smelling fresh.
While I never expected a cheap and
well-used 94 Landy to present very well,
I at least thought it might have been
subjected to a quick tidy up. But no, not
this one. In fact, it was a bloody mess.
I had a look around and could
immediately see the thing was leaking
oil from all seals and orifices but, hey,
thats just a Landy thing, right? I could
see there was some rust in the lower
door frames, but nothing that couldnt be
fixed. I took it for a drive and, while I had
concerns about a clunk in the driveline
and a wobble in the steering, I thought
these too were solvable problems. After
all, this thing was a steal at $10K. Streuth,
it even had air-conditioning, front and
rear ARB Air Lockers, a dual battery
system, a roof rack and an Ironman 4x4
awning. The vendor was also chucking
in a Bahco toolkit, an inverter, a battery
charger, a pair of MaxTrax, a high-lift jack
and a few other extras.
For better or worse I did the deal
and began the 1200km drive back to
the Gong. And a fantastic drive it was!
I stopped at the nearest servo to check
fluids and tyre pressures, and it was here
I noticed each wheel was shod with a
different brand of tyre, even the spare.
The steering wobble was bad at 90km/h
but settled down at 100. The window
washer came on but wouldnt switch off
until the reservoir was almost empty.
And on a couple of occasions the throttle
jammed when I floored it to climb steep
hills. But I loved every minute of it.
I made it home by 2.30am and the
Defender immediately marked its
territory on the driveway. Yep, Ive got
plenty of work in front of me, but Im
pretty damn happy about it.
 Performance 4x4 & SUV
Clutch Kits & Components
xtremeoutback.com.au

australianclutch.com.au 1800 CLUTCH (258 824)

Not sure which car to buy?

ASK THE EXPERTS

visit whichcar.com.au

GLORIOUS DIRT ROADS ARE VANISHING UNDER TAR.
IGHT across Australia the increased
R pace of development is seeing
bitumen and tar spreading further
onto roads that not so long ago were
off-road tracks.
While I understand the rationale
behind it, and the joy locals have when
their main access road is upgraded to
bitumen, for many four-wheel drivers it
seems to be another nail in the coffin of
the activity we enjoy.
Bitumen brings more tourists, which is
a great thing for local shops and caravan
parks, but it means many four-wheelers
who dont like mixing with the tourist
masses have to go even further afield.
It is incredible the difference bitumen
makes. The last time we cruised up the
WA coast every camp within cooee of
the bitumen good, bad or indifferent
was crowded with vans, motorhomes,
camper trailers and tents. To get away
youd just have to head down a dirt road
for 20-50km and you would lose 90 per
cent of them.
The same happens on Cape York. Go
to Karumba where the bitumen stops on
the western side of Cape York anytime
between May and late September and
the local caravan parks are overflowing.
To get away from the mass of humanity
all you have to do is head up the dirt.
182
2 www.4X4australia.com.au
footloose
RON MOON
So whats happening to bring on this
latest lot of despair regarding ongoing
development? Heres just a snapshot of
three iconic routes that have long been
favoured by dirt-road travellers.
The Outback Way, Australias much-
touted longest shortcut, which links
Cairns and Townsville on Far North
Queenslands coast to Perth in WA,
has just received funding for another
section of the route to be bituminised.
Only 1600km of the route remains
unsealed, and the Laverton Shire in WA
is pushing ahead with sealing another
50km or so this year.
Tourism isnt the only driver of this
increased pace of development. In
this particular WA case, the Gruyere
Gold Project east of Laverton is the
largest gold discovery in recent times
and the largest untapped gold resource
currently in Australia. With a road being
built to the site and accommodation
units being set in place, Gruyere is set
to become a major mine within the next
couple of years.
A little further north the Gibb River
Road is continually being upgraded,
with more short sections of the route
going under tar. Still, with the amount
of rain they have had up there this
Wet season, the dirt sections of the
IMAGES COURTESY OF STATE OF QUEENSLAND,
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT AND MAIN ROADS
Gibb (which is by far the majority)
will be pretty knocked around and will
take a bit of fixing. Expect the route,
especially the route north to Kalumburu
and the Mitchell Plateau, to be chopped
up for some time into the Dry season
they may even be closed for longer than
normal, so itll pay to check.
Cape York in North Queensland will
see the greatest change for outback
tourers on the east coast. The plan there
is for the main road from Mareeba
and Lakeland to be bitumen all the
way to Weipa by 2019. The road is
already blacktop all the way to Laura
and beyond, with more than 120km of
bitumen being added in the last few
years. In 2017, Cape York travellers can
expect to see a lot of road work going
on along the Peninsula Developmental
Road between Laura and the Bypass
Road Junction north of the Archer
River, with much more of it going
under tar before years end. To give you
an idea, check out the map we have
included below.
It seems four-wheel drivers will need
to look further afield for adventures,
and luckily we still have plenty of
choices in this great country of ours. You
will just have to go a little more out of
your way to find them.
 WIN A
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 camp cook
VIV MOON

CHOW MEIN
VIVS UNIQUE TAKE ON THE CLASSIC CHINESE STIR-FRIED NOODLE DISH.
CHOW Mein is a Chinese-style dish of fried noodles with shredded meat Add onion, garlic, celery, carrot and beans and saut over a medium
(or seafood) and vegetables. Vivs version is a little different as theres heat for a few minutes. Add the curry powder and saut for a further
not a fried noodle in sight. Shes been making this for more than 40 two minutes until you can smell the aroma of the curry. Remove from
years and, truth be known, she said she probably got it from her mum. the pan and set aside.
Its packed full of mince and vegetables, and its a delicious, easy meal Heat a little more oil if need be, then add the mince and brown,
that everyone will enjoy. making sure you break it up so there are no lumps.
You can add a little more curry powder to the mince at this stage, and
INGREDIENTS stir for a few minutes.
Serves: 4-6 Return the sauted vegetables to the pan, along with the corn,
2 tbsp oil pineapple (pieces and juice), rice, noodle soup, sweet chilli sauce, soy
1-2 onions chopped sauce and chicken stock. Mix well.
2 cloves garlic crushed (or 2 tsp paste/minced variety) Taste and then season to your liking.
2 stalks celery chopped Bring to the boil and then add the cabbage to the top of the mixture.
1 large carrot diced Cover and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Handful of fresh green beans cut into small pieces Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
1-2 tbsp curry powder (to taste) Monitor the liquid and add some more chicken stock or water if it is
750g minced chicken, pork or beef needed.
1 can corn kernels drained As the Chow Mein cooks, the rice will swell and take up the liquid. You
1 can pineapple pieces optional need enough liquid in the pot to cook the rice, but not too much or
3-4 tbsp rice youll have a soup.
1 packet chicken noodle soup
1 tbsp sweet chilli sauce VIVS HINTS
1-2 tsp soy sauce (to taste) Add whatever vegetables you prefer.
1 cup chicken stock If you like it hotter, add some finely chopped fresh red chilli or a
Salt and pepper (to taste) teaspoon or more of crushed chilli paste. You can also add more
small cabbage sliced curry powder to taste.
Water or stock (if needed) Serve it sprinkled with fried noodles.
Finely sliced spring onions optional Its also great in a sandwich or on dry biscuits the next day.

DIRECTIONS WEBSITE OF THE MONTH

Preparation: 15 mins (approx.) Want to spice up your recipes? Then check out the Continental website
Cooking: 20 mins (approx.) to see what can be done with its packaged sauces: www.continental.
Heat the oil in a camp oven or a large, heavy-based pan. com.au/recipes

For more great recipes: Check out Ron & Viv Moons website at www.guidebooks.com.au
Follow their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MoonAdvPub

184
4 www.4X4australia.com.au
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FRIDGE SPECIALISTS
 2300000
9 KM
4X4 SHED
078
DATE ACQUIRED: FEB 2017
PRICE: $10,000
1994 LAND ROVER KM THIS MONTH: 1200KM
DEFENDER 300TDI AV FUEL: 10.2L/100KM

LANDY TRAGIC
DEANOS GONE AND BOUGHT HIMSELF AN OLD DEFENDER.

I
WOULD like to say it was love at first
sight, but when I first copped a glance
of the 1994 Land Rover Defender
300Tdi parked in the Sunshine Coast
Airport carpark I was a little tentative.
Thats because Id just flown from
Sydney to purchase the Landy on the
WORDS AND PICS DEAN MELLOR
expected, but it looked like it was
coming out of several places including
the engine, gearbox, transfer case, diffs
and swivel seals. The chassis looked
pretty straight, without any visible
rust, and there was an Old Man Emu
steering damper up front, King springs,
extras I didnt know about, including a
UHF and a dual battery set-up.
I took it for a spin and the gearbox
and clutch felt good, but there was
a clunk in the driveline. The 300Tdi
performed as I wouldve hoped, but
when the Landy approached 90km/h

promise that it drives beautifully.
I walked around it and saw a body
that looked rougher than Id anticipated.
This Landy had done some work, but it
had a roof rack to which was attached
an Ironman 4x4 awning, a high-lift jack
and a pair of MaxTrax.
When I poked my head underneath,
there was oil everywhere. This was
unidentifiable aftermarket shocks, and
airbags in the rear.
Then I opened the drivers door and
noticed the air-conditioning, the three
switches for an ARB air compressor,
and front and rear Air Lockers. Bonus!
It was pretty dirty in the cabin, but the
dash was in good nick, the seats werent
too bad and this Landy was loaded with
the steering wheel began to wobble.
Nevertheless, it handled well, rode
beautifully and the brakes offered
plenty of bite a good sign.
I did the deal and was on the highway
heading south by 11.30am with 1200km
ahead of me to familiarise myself with
my new Landy. I stopped at the first
service station to fuel up, check tyres

186
6 www.4X4australia.com.au

and fluids, as well as stock up on food
and drink to fuel me. A couple of the
tyres were a bit iffy, and they were
all from different rubber companies,
including the spare, but I was confident
they would get me home safely.
The drive back to Wollongong was
enjoyable. The temperature gauge sat
where it should the entire way back
and the engine (supposedly rebuilt
70,000km ago) performed faultlessly.
The only issues on the journey
included a sticking throttle and the
aforementioned wobble in the steering,
which could be the result of out-of-
Rugged body indicates
the Defender has seen
some remote regions.
The new engine
supposedly gained extra
life 70,000km ago.
balance wheels or (so Im told) dodgy
swivel hubs. One of the headlights is
also buggered and the window washer
is sometimes reluctant to turn off.
When I arrived back home I
discovered the Defender had come with
a complete Bahco toolkit, an inverter,
a battery charger, some jumper leads,
a machete (yes, you read right), and a
heap of other tools and bits and pieces.
Of course, my once pristine driveway
is now covered in oil, but you cant see
it when the Landy is parked over the
top. It looks like I have a lot of work Leaking swivel hubs
ahead of me. could be causing the
wobble in the steering.
www.4X4australia.com.au 1
187
 0 0 6 2 8 8 9 KM
4X4 SHED
078
DATE ACQUIRED: DEC 2016
PRICE: $74,715
LAND CRUISER 79 KM THIS MONTH: 371KM
GXL SINGLE-CAB AV FUEL: 13.7L/100KM

BIG CITY LIFE

A MONTH OF SHOPPING CENTRES AND URBAN DUTIES.

T
HE Land Cruiser was reduced to
urban travel this month, as we
didnt leave Melbourne. That meant
commuting to 4X4 Australia HQ in
Oakleigh day after day and putting up
with the city crawl when wed rather be
rock-crawling.
The LC79 is a bit big for city
travel, and the long tray overhangs
the marked parking spaces in most
shopping centres. It would be nice to
have a reversing camera fitted to warn
you before you back that tray over
anyones bonnet this would be a handy
WORDS MATT RAUDONIKIS
marker for height when entering garage
doors and undercover carparks.
Out on the streets the cab of the
79 is a great place to be. The line of
sight is high through the big windows
surrounding the driver. The new seats
are comfy, the controls all fall easily to
hand, and the gear shift is smooth and
direct. The hill assist is nice and smooth
when crawling in stop-start traffic
through hilly suburbs it holds the
brakes for a few seconds after you lift
off the pedal.
While were talking soft-cock stuff I 79 really comes into its own the further
diesel engine and its low gearing means
the Cruiser lopes along in fourth gear
at 40km/h in the burbs, and it does
that comfortably. Second gear take-offs
are still the norm, even though second
is now taller than it used to be, and it
easily pulls away from low speeds in
third or fourth when the traffic allows.
Once youre moving, it can be driven
around town like an auto by leaving it in
third gear.
As Bruce says of the GU Patrol in his
Rabbit Proof Fence Drive (see p44), the

aftermarket fit-up.
The wide turning circle also means
you usually have to take a couple of
bites at squeezing into the parking
spots. The factory Toyota tray fitted to
our single-cab has a couple of prongs
on top of the headboard hoop that work
as ladder racks, and they are a good
have to admit I miss a couple of creature
comforts, like a better sound system,
power adjustment for the door mirrors
and a factory sat-nav system. The HEMA
HN7 has taken a permanent home on
the dash to help us find our way around
the tight streets of the big smoke.
The bottom-end torque of the V8
you get away from town. The open roads
and bush tracks are the terrain the
Cruiser was made for, and we cant wait
to get back out there with it again.
The only problem we have right now is
the VDJ78 TroopCarrier sitting next to
the 79 in the carpark I can only drive
one at a time!

188
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4X4a
4X4au
4 au
a us
str
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tralia.c
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F B 0 7 1 4 _ H P H _ G r a e me C o o p e r A u t o mo t i v e - 1 2 0 1 4 - 0 5 - 1 5 T1 0 : 3 2 : 4 5 + 1 0 : 0 0

AUTOMOTIVE
WANT TO GET THE MOST 400
- 20
79 17
19

OUT OF YOUR 4X4?

TH

With over 20 years experience servicing only Range Rovers,

Discos and Defenders weve built an enviable reputation for really
expert service. Whether its gearbox overhauls, performance
enhancements, suspension upgrades, long range tanks, pre-trip
inspections, parts and accessories or just regular service were
Sydneys specialist one-stop shop for everything thats Land Rover.

AUTOMOTIVE
99 PRINCES HWY, ST PETERS, SYDNEY 2044.
PH: 02-9550-2689 FREECALL: 1800-647-999
EMAIL: parts@graemecooper.com.au
www.graemecooper.com.au
Weekdays 8am-6pm + Sat 8am-noon (except January) Closed public holidays
 thescore THE ESSENTIAL NUMBERS AND PRICES OF EVERY 4X4 ON SALE IN AUSTRALIA
Australias Ultimate
New Car Comparison Site
whichcar.com.au

FORD 3-year/100,000km www.ford.com.au HOLDEN 3-year/100,000km www.holden.com.au

RANGER COLORADO
Australian-designed, Thai-built Ranger has quickly earned big off-road rep. Turbo-diesel 2.2 four and Holdens Thai-made Colorado has received a fresh face and new driver-assistance technology as
3.2 five feature in 4x4 models. The dual-cab XLT is the big seller for recreational off-roaders. part of a mid-cycle upgrade.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED

Single XL c/chass 39,065 L4TD/2.2 M6 375 110 1762 1438 3500 80 DX Single c/c 35,990 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 1957 1143 3500 76
Single XL c/c 41,565 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 1795 1405 3500 80 LS Single c/c 37,490 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 1962 1138 3500 76

Single XL c/c 43,290 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 1795 1405 3500 80 LS Single c/c 39,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 1959 1141 3500 76
LS Space c/c 40,990 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 2048 1052 3500 76
Super XL c/c 44,065 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 1870 1330 3500 80
LS Space c/c 42,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2045 1055 3500 76
Super XL p/u 45,565 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2018 1182 3500 80
LTZ Space p/u 48,990 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 2034 1066 3500 76
Single XL c/c 46,755 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2018 1182 3500 80
LTZ Space p/u 50,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2031 1069 3500 76
Single XL Plus c/c 46,755 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 1795 1405 3500 80 LS Crew c/c 43,490 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 2033 1067 3500 76
Super XLT p/u 53,415 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2118 1082 3500 80 LS Crew c/c 45,490 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2030 1070 3500 76
Super XLT p/u 54,390 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2118 1082 3500 80 LS Crew p/u 44,990 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 2019 1081 3500 76
Dual XL c/c 43,565 L4TD/2.2 M6 375 110 1909 1291 3500 80 LS Crew p/u 47,190 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2016 1084 3500 76
Dual XL c/c 45,565 L4TD/2.2 A6 375 110 1909 1291 3500 80 LT Crew p/u 46,990 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 2007 1093 3500 76
LT Crew p/u 49,190 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2004 1096 3500 76
Dual XL c/c 46,065 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 1938 1262 3500 80
LTZ Crew p/u 50,490 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 2056 1044 3500 76
Dual XL c/c 48,065 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 938 1262 3500 80
LTZ Crew p/u 52,690 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2053 1047 3500 76 Mar 17
Dual XL Plus c/c 53,235 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 1938 1262 3500 80
Z71 Crew p/u 54,990 L4TD/2.8 M5 440 147 2056 1044 3500 76
Dual XL p/u 45,065 L4TD/2.2 M6 375 110 2034 1166 3500 80
Z71 Crew p/u 57,190 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2053 1047 3500 76 Jan 17
Dual XL p/u 47,065 L4TD/2.2 A6 375 110 2034 1166 3500 80
TRAILBLAZER
Dual XL p/u 47,565 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2068 1132 3500 80
Seven-seat wagon based on Colorado sibling refreshed mid-2016 with a new name, new face and
Dual XL p/u 49,565 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2068 1132 3500 80 technology. Seven pews may make it a family favourite, but touring use is limited to five.
Dual XLS p/u 48,865 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2064 1136 3500 80 LT 47,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2072 678 3000 76 Jan 17
LTZ 52,490 L4TD/2.8 A6 500 147 2117 633 3000 76 Mar 17
Dual XLT p/u 55,415 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2159 1041 3500 80 Jan 12
Dual XLT p/u 57,415 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2159 1041 3500 80 Jan 17
INFINITI 4-year/100,000km www.infiniticars.com.au
Dual Wildtrak 59,590 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2200 1000 3500 80
QX80
Dual Wildtrak 61,590 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2200 1000 3500 80 Feb 17
Nissan luxury brands bold-looking, tech-laden version of the Y62 Patrol. Like Y62, no diesel offered.
EVEREST PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED

Ranger-based seven-seater arrived with three models on offer and was our 2015 4X4 Of The Year. QX80 110,900 V8/5.6 A7 560 298 2666 794 3500 140

Ambiente
PRICE

54,990
ENGINE

L5TD/3.2
TRANS TORQUE

A6 470
POWER

143
WEIGHT

2370
LOAD

730
TOWING

3000
FUEL

80
LAST TESTED
ISUZU 5-year/130,000km www.isuzuute.com.au

Trend 60,990 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 143 2407 693 3000 80 Oct 16 D-MAX
D-Max shares body architecture with Holden Colorado. Powered by Isuzus respected 3.0-litre TD
Titanium 76,705 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 143 2495 605 3000 80 Jun 16 that has been tweaked for more torque, plus new six-speed manual and auto transmissions.

FOTON
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
3-year/100,000km www.fotonmotors.com.au EX Single c/c 34,800 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 1657 1293 3500 76
TUNLAND EX Single c/c 38,000 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 1660 1290 3500 76
Foton is a Chinese manufacturer responsible for the Tunland Utes. Single cab and dual cabs available in SX Single c/c 41,100 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 1665 1295 3500 76
no-nonsense, single-trim specification and powered by Cummins turbo-diesel.
SX Space c/c 40,700 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 1741 1209 3500 76
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
SX Space c/c 42,800 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 1746 1214 3500 76
Single Cab Ute 25,990* L4TD/2.8 M5 360 120 1879 1015 2500 76
LS-U Space p/u 46,200 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 1900 1050 3500 76
Dual Cab Ute 30,990* L4TD/2.8 M5 360 120 1950 1025 2500 76
LS-U Space p/u 48,300 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 1905 1055 3500 76
*This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.
SX Crew c/c 42,200 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 1795 1155 3500 76

GREAT WALL 3-year/100,000km www.gwm.com.au

SX Crew c/c
SX Crew p/u
45,300
43,900
L4TD/3.0
L4TD/3.0
A6
M6
430
430
130
130
1780
1915
1160
1035
3500
3500
76
76
STEED
SX Crew p/u 46,000 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 1920 1040 3500 76
Great Walls face-lifted version of the the V200/V240 continues the cheap and cheerful theme but gets a
new nose, interior and 150mm longer tray. LS-M Crew p/u 46,400 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 1990 1060 3500 76
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED LS-M Crew p/u 48,500 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 1995 1065 3500 76
Dual Cab Ute 29,990* L4TD/2.0 M5 310 110 1900 1020 2000 70 Jan 17 LS-U Crew p/u 48,300 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 1935 1015 3500 76
LS-U Crew p/u 50,400 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 1940 1020 3500 76
*This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.
LS-T Crew p/u 54,200 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 1940 1020 3500 76

HAVAL 3-year/100,000km www.haval.com.au MU-X

H9 Isuzus seven-seat wagon based on the D-Max ute underpinnings, but with a smooth-riding coil-
spring rear suspension. Uses Isuzus respected 3.0-litre TD engine.
The Chinese-made Haval is an SUV from Great Walls luxury arm. A fresh arrival on the Oz market. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED

PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED LS-M 47,000 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 2075 675 3000 65
H9 Premium 46,490* L4/2.0 A6 324 160 2250 645 2500 85 LS-M 49,100 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 2075 675 3000 65
LS-U 49,000 L4TD/3.0 M6 430 130 2075 675 3000 65
H9 Luxury 49,990* L4/2.0 A6 324 160 2250 645 2500 85 Mar 17
LS-U 51,100 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 2075 675 3000 65
*This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads. LS-T 54,800 L4TD/3.0 A6 430 130 2075 675 3000 65

190 www.4X4australia.com.au
 Brought to you by

JEEP 3-year/100,000km www.jeep.com.au

WRANGLER
Two doors or four, petrol V6 or TD4, auto or manual Wrangler has all the options, although range has
been cut recently. 3.6-litre V6 is a leap forward from the 3.8 and has an optional five-speed auto.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED

Sport soft-top 38,990 V6/3.6 M6 347 209 1745 455 1600 70.4
Sport soft-top 40,990 V6/3.6 A5 347 209 1825 365 1600 70.4
Overland soft-top 49,990 V6/3.6 A5 347 209 1919 n/a 1000 70
Unlimited Sport 42,990 V6/3.6 M6 347 209 1875 450 2300 85.2
Unlimited Sport 44,990 V6/3.6 A5 347 209 2055 370 2300 85.2 April 13
Unlimited Sport 49,990 L4TD/2.8 A5 460 130 2105 345 2300 85.2
Unlimited Overland 53,990 V6/3.6 A5 347 209 2053 n/a 2000 85
Unlimited Rubicon 53,990 V6/3.6 A5 347 209 1975 395 2300 85.2

CHEROKEE

TOP
The new KL Cherokee is the fourth generation of the series and has only two dual-transfer models
available: the Trailhawk and Limited Diesel.

SELLER
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
Trailhawk 52,000 V6/3.2 A9 316 200 1862 633 2200 60 Sept 14
Limited Diesel 49,000 L4/2.0 A9 350 125 1854 641 2393 60

GRAND CHEROKEE

BY THE NUMBERS
Jeeps Grand Cherokee runs a grunty Pentastar V6, efficient 3.0TD V6, or the Hemi V8. Quadra-lift air
suspension for Limited and Overland, rather than coils. Five seats and tight luggage area.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
Laredo 52,500 V6/3.6 A8 347 210 2084 758 2812 93.5
Laredo TDV6 59,000 V6/3.0TD A8 550 177 2267 677 3500 93.1 20 top-selling 4x4s in February 2017
Limited 62,000 V6/3.6 A8 347 210 2169 758 2812 93.5 Source: VFACTS
Limited TDV6 69,000 V6/3.0TD A8 550 177 2281 677 3500 93.1
Limited HEMI V8 64,000 V8/5.7 A8 500 240 2302 642 3500 93.5
VEHICLE UNITS
Overland 72,000 V6/3.6 A8 347 210 2279 670 3500 93.5
Overland HEMI V8 74,000 V8/5.7 A8 520 259 2329 642 3500 93.5 1 Ford Ranger 2497
Overland TDV6 79,000 V6/3.0TD A8 550 177 2327 677 3500 93.1 2 Toyota Hilux 2380
Summit 87,000 V6/3.0TD A8 550 177 2327 677 3500 93.1 3 Mitsubishi Triton 1751
4 Toyota Prado 1320
JMC 3-year/130,000km www.jmcmotor.com.au
5 Holden Colorado 1098
VIGUS
A low-priced Chinese ute imported and distributed by the local arm of JMC and using proprietary 6 Toyota Land Cruiser Wagon 944
powertrain components from the likes of Mitsubishi and Getrag.
7 Nissan Navara 931
Vigus LX 24,990 L4/2.4 M5 201 100 1805 890 2000 74
8 Volkswagen Amarok 756
Vigus LX 27,990 L4TD/2.4 M5 290 90 1947 823 2000 68
Vigus SLX 30,990 L4TD/2.4 M5 290 90 1947 823 2000 68
9 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 752
10 Mazda BT-50 747
11 Isuzu D-MAX 591
12 Toyota Land Cruiser PU/CC 548
13 Isuzu MU-X 503
14 Mitsubishi Pajero 396
15 Jeep Grand Cherokee 363
16 Range Rover Sport 357
17 Ford Everest 256
18 Holden Trailblazer 200
19 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 198
20 Toyota Fortuner 170

10 top-selling 4x4s, year-to-date in 2017 (February)

JEEP EXTENDS COVERAGE Source: VFACTS

VEHICLE UNITS
JEEP has bumped up its new-car warranty coverage from three
years/100,000km to five years/100,000km for vehicles sold
1 Ford Ranger 4718
from February 2017 onwards. 2 Toyota Hilux 4344
When the warranty expires, and provided the vehicle is serviced by a Jeep 3 Mitsubishi Triton 2725
dealer, Jeep Australia will provide free roadside assistance coverage for the 4 Holden Colorado 2431
vehicles lifetime. 5 Toyota Prado 2383
Buyers of MY16 Jeeps sold from February 2017 get the previous three-
year manufacturers warranty but have it topped-up with a two-year extended
6 Nissan Navara 1733
warranty provided by Eric Insurance Limited. 7 Toyota Land Cruiser Wagon 1657
If youve bought a MY15 or MY16 Jeep before February 2017, Jeep 8 Mazda BT-50 1456
Australia will provide a two-year extended warranty, coupled with an 9 Volkswagen Amarok 1333
additional two years roadside cover and five years capped price scheduled 10 Isuzu D-MAX 1089
servicing for a $1950 fee.
MY15 and MY16 Jeeps will also get lifetime roadside assistance if they are
serviced at Jeep dealers after the warranty has expired.

www.4X4australia.com.au 191
 thescore
4X4 MARKETPLACE

LEXUS 4-year/100,000km www.infiniticars.com.au

LX570
Take one Land Cruiser 200, give it a nose job, a whopping 5.7-litre petrol V8 and bunch of extra tech

LAND ROVER PROJECT HERO

gizmos and voila, you have the Lexus LX470.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
LX570 143,300 V8/5.7 A6 530 270 2740 610 3500 138
LAND ROVERs Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) unit has created the
Project Hero, a unique version of the new Discovery thats designed for MAHINDRA 3-year/100,000km www.mahindra.com.au
use by the Austrian Red Cross. GENIO
Shown at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, Project Hero is based on New ute from Mahindra. Just a single cab so far in the 4x4 range, but a dual cab is coming shortly.
the 3.0-litre TD6-powered Disco, but adds a heavy-duty sliding floor PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
in the rear load space, a segregation panel behind the rear pews, and 2.2 single c/c 23,490* L4TD/2.2 M5 280 88 1820 1160 1800 74
additional LEDs and power points. 2.2 dual c/c 27,490* L4TD/2.2 M5 280 88 1980 1000 1800 74
Helping with remote search-and-rescue operations is a roof-mounted 2.2 dual p/u 27,990* L4TD/2.2 M5 280 88 1980 1000 1800 74
aerial drone with a world-first, fully integrated landing system, meaning *This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.
it can land on the Disco when its in motion. The drone has a transmit-
and-receive range of one kilometre.
PIK-UP
The tech will be trialled by response teams over the next year.
Now has standard airbags and ABS, and recently received a new, more powerful engine. Available
in single- and dual-cab configuration with or without a tub. Easy!
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
2.2 single c/c 24,990* L4TD/2.2 M5 290 89 1860 1060 2500 80
2.2 dual c/c 27,490* L4TD/2.2 M5 290 89 2010 1000 2500 80
2.2 single p/u 25,990* L4TD/2.2 M5 290 89 2060 1060 2500 80
2.2 dual p/u 27,990* L4TD/2.2 M5 290 89 2120 1000 2500 80 Oct 16

*This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.

MAZDA 3-year/unlimited km www.mazda.com.au

BT-50
Developed in Australia in tandem with Ford Ranger. Its big attraction is its sharp pricing. Diff lock
and low-range TC work great. 3.2-litre only.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
Single Cab XT c/c 36,850 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 1789 1411 3500 80
Freestyle XT c/c 40,815 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 1857 1343 3500 80
Freestyle XTR p/u 47,675 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2037 1163 3500 80
Dual XT c/c 42,815 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 1929 1271 3500 80
Dual XT p/u 44,615 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2044 1156 3500 80
Dual XT p/u 47,265 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2061 1139 3500 80
Dual XTR p/u 49,700 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2086 1114 3500 80
Dual XTR p/u 51,700 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2103 1097 3500 80 Feb 16
LAND ROVER 3-year/100,000km www.landrover.com.au Dual GT p/u 51,790 L5TD/3.2 M6 470 147 2095 1105 3500 80
DISCOVERY 4 Dual GT p/u 53,790 L5TD/3.2 A6 470 147 2112 1088 3500 80 Jan 17
The Discovery 4 has versatile seating. Sophisticated chassis electronics and effective all-independent
suspension provide formidable off-road go.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
TDV6 69,630 V6TD/3.0 A8 520 155 2583 657 3500 82 April 13
SE SDV6 84,880 V6SD/3.0 A8 600 180 2583 657 3500 82 Jun 16
HSE SDV6 96,290 V6SD/3.0 A8 600 180 2583 657 3500 82 Nov 10

RANGE ROVER SPORT

New Sport also gets Land Rovers 3.0SDV6 and a revitalised 5.0 V8 and Supercharged V8. The TDV6 is
the pick of the range for performance and economy.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
SDV6 SE 114,800 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2115 885 3500 89
SDV6 HSE 132,000 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2115 885 3500 89
SDV6 HSE Dyn 138,600 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2115 885 3500 89
SDV8 HSE 147,300 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2398 802 3500 105
SDV6 Autobio 169,800 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 225 2115 885 3500 89
SDV8 HSE Dyn 153,600 V8TD/4.4 A8 740 250 2398 802 3500 105
V8 HSE Dynamic 169,100 V8SC/5.0 A8 625 375 2309 789 3500 105
SDV6 HEV Autobio 174,700 V6TD/3.0 A8 700 260 2372 778 3000 89
V8 Autobiography 196,800 V8SC/5.0 A8 625 375 2309 789 3500 105
V8 SVR 233,500 V8SC/5.0 A8 680 405 2333 667 3000 105

RANGE ROVER
Land Rover combines supreme luxury and off-road capability in the Rangie. More power, less
weight and better economy are just some of the improvements to the ber-roader.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
V6 Vogue 191,525 V6/3.0 A8 450 250 2160 840 3500 105
S/CV8 Autobiog 255,355 V8SC/5.0 A8 625 375 2330 820 3500 105
Autobiog LWB 267,375 V8SC/5.0 A8 625 375 2330 820 3500 105
SV Autobiography 359,485 V8SC/5.0 A8 680 405 2465 635 3000 105
SV Autobio LWB 372,115 V8SC/5.0 A8 680 405 2523 577 3000 105
TD Vogue 171,549 V6D/3.0 A8 600 190 2160 840 3500 85 June 13
Vogue LWB 190,944 V6D/3.0 A8 600 190 2360 840 3500 85
SD Vogue 202,330 V8SD/4.4 A8 740 250 2360 840 3500 105 May 13
SD Vogue SE 224,550 V8SD/4.4 A8 740 250 2360 840 3500 105
SDV8 Autobiog 242,425 V8SD/4.4 A8 740 250 2360 840 3500 105
Vogue SE LWB 222,610 V8D/4.4 A8 740 250 2360 840 3500 105
SV Autobiography 333,430 V8D/4.4 A8 740 250 2360 840 3500 105
SV Autoboig LWB 346,055 V8D/4.4 A8 740 250 2360 840 3500 105

192 www.4x4australia.com.au
 Australias Ultimate New Car Comparison Site whichcar.com.au Brought to you by

MERCEDES 3-year/unlimited km www.mercedes-benz.com.au

DX (leaf)
DX (wide wheels)
52,290
53,290
L4TD/3.0
L4TD/3.0
M5
M5
380
380
118
118
2120
2120
1160
1300
3200
3200
175
175
Oct 07

GLE-CLASS ST (coil) 55,090 L4TD/3.0 M5 380 118 2120 1120 3200 175
The GLE-Class has arrived to take over from the M-Class. Like the M-Class, you need to select the Off-
Road Engineering Package to get a dual-range transmission. This is not available on the GLE 63 AMG. NAVARA D23
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED The D23 or NP300 Navara as it is being called replaces both the D22 and D40 models.
GLE 250d 89,455 L4TD/2.1 A9 500 150 2150 800 3265 93
GLE 350d 105,855 V6TD/3.0 A9 620 190 2175 775 3265 93 Single DX c/c 31,990 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1614 1296 3500 80
GLE 400 109,615 V6/3.0 A9 480 245 2130 770 3265 93 Single RX c/c 32,990 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1626 1284 3500 80
GLE 500 127,615 V8/4.7 A9 700 320 2235 715 3265 93 Single RX c/c 35,490 L4TD/2.3 A7 403 120 1632 1278 3500 80
King RX c/c 35,490 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1727 1183 3500 80
GLS-CLASS
King RX p/u 36,990 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1863 1047 3500 80
GLS is the new name for the GL-Class replacement. Like the GL before it, GLS needs the optional Off-
Road Engineering Package to get dual-range transmission. GLS AMG 63 doesnt get this option. King ST p/u 43,990 L4TD/2.3 M6 450 140 1908 1002 3500 80
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED King ST p/u 46,490 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 1911 999 3500 80
GLS 350 d 117,950 V6TD/3.0 A9 620 190 2455 795 3500 100 King ST-X p/u 49,990 L4TD/2.3 M6 450 140 1941 969 3500 80
GLS 350 d Sport 136,950 V6TD/3.0 A9 620 190 2455 795 3500 100 King ST-X p/u 52,490 L4TD/2.3 A7 450 140 1944 966 3500 80
GLS 500 163,950 V8/4.7 A9 700 320 2445 805 3150 100 Dual RX c/c 38,490 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1759 1151 3500 80
Dual RX p/u 39,990 L4TD/2.3 M6 403 120 1816 1094 3500 80
G-CLASS Dual RX p/u 42,490 L4TD/2.3 A7 403 120 1823 1087 3500 80
With triple diff locks, long-travel coil suspension and rugged construction, Mercs Gelandewagen is off- Dual ST p/u 46,990 L4TTD/2.3 M6 450 140 1862 1048 3500 80
road heritage writ large. Unfortunately, so is the price tag on an updated 30-year-old design.
Dual ST p/u 49,490 L4TTD/2.3 A7 450 140 1865 1045 3500 80 Jan 16
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
Dual ST-X p/u 51,990 L4TTD/2.3 M6 450 140 1917 993 3500 80 Aug 15
G350 BlueTEC 163,615 V6TD/3.0 A7 540 155 2570 630 2850 96 Feb 12 Dual ST-X p/u 54,490 L4TTD/2.3 A7 450 140 1921 989 3500 80 Jan 17
G63 AMG 233,615 V8/5.5 A7 760 400 2550 n/a 3500 96

G-PROFESSIONAL SSANGYONG 3-year/100,000km www.ssangyong.com.au

Mercs single cab-chassis Gelandewagen might be the ultimate off-road ute (and load-carrier, with its
massive 2080kg payload) but its also the most expensive single-cab 4WD you can buy. ACTYON SPORTS
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED The ute version of Actyon, this is one of a few 4x4 utes with coil rear suspension. Load capacity doesnt
match the competition, but on-road handling is good.
G300 CDI c/c 119,900 V6TD/3.0 A5 400 135 2410 2080 2210 97 Mar 17
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED

MITSUBISHI 5-year/130,000km www.mitsubishi-motors.com.au

Tradie
Tradie
29,490
29,490*
L4TD/2.0
L4TD/2.0
M6
A6
360
360
114
114
2022
2022
828
828
2300
2300
75
75
PAJERO SX 30,990* L4TD/2.0 M6 360 114 2035 815 2300 75 Aug 07
With all-independent suspension, Pajero has class-leading on-road handling. Effective traction control SX 32,714* L4TD/2.0 A6 360 114 2035 815 2300 75 Aug 07
and rear diff lock make it very handy off-road, too. Sharp base price makes it a great all-rounder.
*This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
GLX 3.2 53,990 L4TD/3.2 A5 441 147 2273 750 3000 88 REXTON
GLS 3.2 61,990 L4TD/3.2 A5 441 147 2273 750 3000 88 Ssangyongs seven-seat part-time 4WD wagon is getting long in the tooth, but has a good powertrain
Exceed 3.2 65,990 L4TD/3.2 A5 441 147 2347 683 3000 88 Oct 16 and is good value.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
TRITON
SX 39,990* L4TD/2.0 A5 360 116 1985 725 2600 78
MQ Triton is an evolution rather than a revolution, but has a more torquey and refined engine, better
low range and vastly improved fit-and-finish over the superseded MN series. *This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.

PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
GLX Sgl c/c 32,500 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1660 1240 3100 75 SUZUKI 3-year/100,000km www.suzuki.com.au
GLX Club c/c 35,300 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1775 1125 3100 75 Aug 15 JIMNY SIERRA
GLX Dual c/c 36,250 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1775 1125 3100 75
The latest version of the smallest off-roader on the market has revived the once-popular Sierra
GLX Dual Cab 37,000 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1930 970 3100 75 nameplate. Pocket-money pricing for a pocket-sized performer.
GLX Dual Cab 39,500 L4TD/2.4 A5 430 133 1930 970 3100 75 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
GLS Dual Cab 41,500 L4TD/2.4 M6 430 133 1950 950 3100 75 Sierra 22,990* L4/1.3 M5 110 63 1060 360 350/1300 40 Oct 10
GLS Dual Cab 44,000 L4TD/2.4 A5 430 133 1950 950 3100 75 Jan 16 Sierra 24,990* L4/1.3 A4 110 63 1075 345 350/1300 40
GLS Sports d/c 45,990 L4/TD2.4 M6 430 133 1950 950 3100 75
*This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.
GLS Sports d/c 48,490 L4/TD2.4 A5 430 133 1950 950 3100 75
Exceed Dual Cab 48,000 L4TD/2.4 A5 430 133 1965 935 3100 75 Jan 17 GRAND VITARA
The Grand Vitara has two powerful petrol donks to complement its off-road capability. The last of the
PAJERO SPORT smaller dual-range wagons, but is showing its age.
Pajero Sport replaces Challenger in Mitsubishis 4x4 range. Its still on a Triton ute chassis but with PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING* FUEL LAST TESTED
rear coils under the back and bespoke bodywork. An 8-speed auto replaces the ute's 5-slot.
3-door Navigator 27,990 L4/2.4 M5 225 122 1489 426 550/1600 55
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
3-door Navigator 29,990 L4/2.4 A4 225 122 1504 537 550/1600 55
GLX 45,000 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2045 666 3100 68
5-door Sport 33,489 L4/2.4 M5 225 122 1605 465 750/1850 66
GLS 48,500 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2060 660 3100 68 Mar 17
*Unbraked/braked towing weights.
Exceed 53,000 L4TD/2.4 A8 430 133 2070 640 3100 68 Oct 16

NISSAN 3-year/100,000km www.nissan.com.au

TATA 3-year/100,000km www.tatamotors.com.au
XENON
PATROL Y62 The Xenon is Tatas replacement for the Telcoline and is a tough, budget-buy, Indian-made
In a segment that drinks diesel, top-spec Patrol is available in V8-petrol guise only. Fully independent alternative to the Chinese utes: Foton, Great Wall and now JMC.
suspension is backed by electronic traction aids, but its thirst hinders towing and touring. PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED Single c/c tray 22,990* L4TD/2.2 M5 320 110 1960 990 2500 70
Ti 69,990 V8/5.6 A7 560 298 2706 794 3500 140 Jul 16 Single p/u 22,990* L4TD/2.2 M5 320 110 1960 990 2500 70
Ti-L 86,990 V8/5.6 A7 560 298 2735 765 3500 140 April 13 Dual p/u 25,990* L4TD/2.2 M5 320 110 2070 880 2500 70

PATROL GU *This is a nationwide drive-away price, not a list price, and includes on-roads.
Patrol GU remains no-nonsense, full-size bush touring wagon for a mid-sized price. But keep in mind
118kW/380Nm 3.0-litre is a mid-sized motor, so its working hard.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
TOYOTA 3-year/100,000km www.toyota.com.au
PRADO
DX 53,890 L4TD/3.0 M5 380 118 2366 694 3200 125
For 2015 the 150 Prado copped a new diesel engine borrowed from Hilux, as well as a tweaked petrol
DX 57,690 L4TD/3.0 A4 354 118 2355 665 2500 125 V6. The Prado update included new tinware up front and an interior tidy-up.
ST 57,390 L4TD/3.0 M5 380 118 2455 605 3200 125 May 05 PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
ST 60,090 L4TD/3.0 A4 354 118 2420 600 2500 125 May 16
GX 54,050 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 2150 835 2500 150
PATROL CAB CHASSIS GX 56,050 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2150 835 2500 150
Nissan offers a choice of leaf or coil-spring rear suspension. The only driveline choice is Nissans 3.0- GXL 62,210 V6/4.0 A6 381 207 2240 660 2500 150
litre turbo-diesel and manual box, but big tank provides great range. GXL 61,190 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 2205 785 2500 150
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED GXL 63,190 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2205 785 2500 150 Feb 16

www.4x4australia.com.au 193
 thescore
4X4 MARKETPLACE
Brought to you by Australias Ultimate New Car Comparison Site whichcar.com.au

VX 74,170 V6/4.0 A6 381 207 2355 545 2500 150 Dual SR5 p/u 56,390 V6/4.0 A6 376 175 2000 1000 3000 80
VX 75,190 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2435 555 2500 150 Dual SR5+ p/u 55,990 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 2075 925 3500 80
Kakadu 84,880 V6/4.0 A6 381 207 2355 545 2500 150 Dual SR5+ p/u 57,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2075 925 3200 80 Jan 17
Kakadu 85,900 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2435 555 2500 150 Jun 16
FJ CRUISER
FORTUNER
The FJ Cruiser doesnt suffer for its retro styling with Prado platform its capable anywhere. Petrol/
Toyotas Hilux-based seven-seat wagon arrives to take on Everest, Pajero Sport, MU-X and Colorado 7. auto-only, but grunt, price, fuel capacity, diff lock and Crawl Control make it an off-road bargain.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
V6 46,990 V6/4.0 A5 380 200 2000 510 2250 150 Jul 16
GX 47,990 L4TD/2.8 M6 450 130 2110 640 3000 80
GX
GXL
49,990
52,990
L4TD/2.8
L4TD/2.8
A6
M6
450
450
130
130
2110
2110
640
640
2800
3000
80
80
VOLKSWAGEN 3 year/unlimited km www.volkswagen.com.au

GXL 54,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2110 640 2800 80 Feb 16 AMAROK
Crusade 59,990 L4TD/2.8 M6 450 130 2110 640 3000 80 Amarok is an impressive all-rounder with two Ute Of The Year wins. Bi-turbo engine punches above its
weight and is very economical. MY15 entry-level model now called Core Edition.
Crusade 61,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2110 640 2800 80 Apr 16
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
LAND CRUISER 200 SERIES Core Ed 400 sc/c 35,490 L4TD/2.0 M6 400 132 1865 1175 2800 80
With two beaut V8s petrol and twin-turbo-diesel the 200 Series Land Cruiser offers loads of Core Ed 420 sc/c 38,490 L4TD/2.0 M6 420 132 1873 1175 3000 80
performance. Big fuel capacity, big space and big ability make one of the best tourers ever. Core Ed 400 s/c 36,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 400 132 1865 1175 2800 80
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
Core Ed 420 s/c 39,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 1873 1175 3000 80
GX TDV8 77,750 V8TD/4.5 A6 650 195 2640 710 3500 138 Jan 12 Core Ed 400 dc/c 41,490 L4TD/2.0 M6 400 132 1978 1062 2800 80
GXL V8 83,730 V8/4.6 A6 439 228 2555 745 3500 138 Core Ed 400 d/c 42,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 400 132 1978 1062 2800 80
GXL TDV8 88,830 V8TD/4.5 A6 650 195 2630 670 3500 138 July 13 Core Ed 420 dc/c 44,490 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 1985 1055 3000 80
VX V8 94,070 V8/4.6 A6 439 228 2610 690 3500 138
Core Ed 420 d/c 45,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 1985 1055 3000 80
VX TDV8 99,170 V8TD/4.5 A6 650 195 2675 625 3500 138
TrendlineTDI400 49,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 400 132 2018 1022 2800 80
Sahara V8 115,490 V8/4.6 A6 439 228 2665 635 3500 138 Sept 14
Trendline420 dc/c 48,490 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 2026 1014 3000 80
Sahara TDV8 120,590 V8TD/4.5 A6 650 195 2720 580 3500 138
TrendlineTDI420 49,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 2026 1014 3000 80 Jan 13
LAND CRUISER 70 HighlineTDI400 53,990 L4TD/2.0 M6 400 132 2073 967 2800 80
The 70 Series Cruisers torquey TDV8 makes it a load-hauler extraordinaire. Available as long-wheel- HighlineTDI420 56,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 2080 960 3000 80 Jan 16
base Troopie or five-door, mid-wheelbase wagon.
AtacamaTDI400 53,990 L4TD/2.0 M6 400 132 2073 967 2800 80
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
AtacamaTDI420 56,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 2080 960 3000 80
TroopCarrier WM 64,890 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2320 980 3500 180
CanyonTDI420 59,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 2087 953 2000 80
TroopCarrier GXL 67,990 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2335 965 3500 180 Feb 08
Ultimate TDI420 63,990 L4TD/2.0 A8 420 132 2094 946 3000 80 Sept 12
Wagon WM 60,990 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2220 780 3500 90
Highline V6 59,990 V6TD/3.0 A8 550 165 2169 911 3000 80 Feb 17
Wagon GXL 64,990 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2190 810 3500 90 Feb 08
Ultimate V6 67,990 V6TD/3.0 A8 550 165 2216 864 3000 80 Feb 17
LAND CRUISER 70 CAB CHASSIS
With its TDV8 powerplant, the Land Cruiser ute is better than ever. Optional Toyota diff locks make it
super-capable off-road.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED
Workmate c/c 62,490 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2045 1003 3500 180
GX c/c 64,490 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2010 1013 3500 180
GXL c/c 66,490 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2020 1023 3500 180 Dec 07

LAND CRUISER 79 DOUBLE CAB

Tough-as-nails and with room for five, the LC79 dual-cab has the same V8 manual torque and diff-
lock option as other 70s to make for an almost unstoppable off-road workhorse.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED

Workmate c/c 64,990 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2205 900 3500 130
GXL c/c 68,990 V8TD/4.5 M5 430 151 2215 900 3500 130 Mar 17

HILUX
The new NG Hilux arrived in 2015, with a new 2.8-litre engine, six-speed transmissions and a
beefed-up towing capacity.
PRICE ENGINE TRANS TORQUE POWER WEIGHT LOAD TOWING FUEL LAST TESTED

Single Wmate c/c 36,990 L4TD/2.4 M6 400 110 1775 1225 3200 80

TRITON LIMBERS UP
Single SR c/c 39,490 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 1795 1205 3500 80
Extra Wmate c/c 40,490 L4TD/2.4 M6 400 110 1870 1120 3200 80
Extra SR p/u 44,490 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 1985 1005 3500 80
Extra SR5 p/u 51,990 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 1980 1010 3500 80 May 16 IF YOU want something a bit different, Mitsubishi has added the Triton GLS
Dual SR c/c 44,990 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 1945 1045 3500 80 Sports Edition to the Triton range. Based on the GLS 4x4 Double Cab, the
Dual SR c/c 46,990 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 1945 1045 3200 80 Sports Edition comes with a lick of black paint on the grille, sports bar, alloy
Dual Wmate p/u 43,990 L4TD/2.4 M6 400 110 2045 955 3200 80 wheels and rear step bumper.
Dual Wmate p/u 45,990 L4TD/2.4 A6 400 110 2045 955 3200 80 The GLS Sports Edition also comes with a rear diff lock, a feature you
Dual SR p/u 48,490 V6/4.0 A6 376 175 2000 1000 3000 80 could previously only get with the Triton Exceed. Its also fitted with a
Dual SR p/u 46,490 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 2080 920 3500 80 Mitsubishi Genuine Accessories black-powdercoat-finish nudge bar.
Dual SR p/u 48,490 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2080 920 3200 80 Jan 16 The Sports Edition is available as a $45,990 manual or a $48,490 auto
Dual SR5 p/u 53,990 L4TD/2.8 M6 420 130 2075 925 3500 80 (plus on-road costs).
Dual SR5 p/u 55,900 L4TD/2.8 A6 450 130 2075 925 3200 80

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