OzRoamer Guide to Slide on Campers and Camper Trailers 2012 -13

guide to

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ROAMER

from the Editor Welcome to the second edition of OzRoamer Guide to Slide on Campers and Camper Trailers.

2012 has seen the continued growth of this segment of the market and with over 180 manufacturers of camper trailers and slide on campers there is an abundance of choice for consumers.

With all this choice comes confusion for buyers and with many manufacturers making conflicting claims it can be a mine field trying to make an educated choice about what to buy.

That’s where we come in. This magazine is full of important information to help you, the buyer, make educated decisions about what to buy to suit your travel plans. We have done all the hard work for you. In fact we have a number of articles that explore all you need to know before you buy to help you and there are over 40 directory listings for some manufacturers to help as well.

Articles include an A-Z of what to look for when buying your camper trailer, help with choosing a slide on camper and towing vehicle. There is information on towing restrictions and caring for your canvas as well.

Well enough of my ramblings, I hope you enjoy this issue of OzRoamer Guide to Slide on Campers and Camper Trailers.

We are fairly relaxed and laid back here and would love to hear from you what you think about our magazine. After all, this entire magazine is about you.

Our aim is to enhance your lifestyle.

Without you reading it and getting knowledge or pleasure from it why would we bother.

Happy days and cheers!

Rob Fraser Editor

Contents

ROAMER Guide to

Slide on campers & camper trailers

6

Australian made VS Imported

8

Choosing a Slide on Camper

10

A-Z of buying a Camper Trailer

18

Choosing your Tow vehicle

22

OzRoamer Directory Listings

36

Dual Cab Utes for Towing

46

Power VS Torque for Towing

48

4WD VS AWD for Towing

Sub Editor

50

Towing Restrictions

53

Caring for your Canvas

Chloe Fraser chloe@ozroamer.com.au

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OzRoamer Buyers Guide

OzRoamer Directory Listings 22 22 22 23 23 23 24 24 24 25 25 25 26 26 26 27 27 27 28 28 28 29 29 29 30 30 30 31 31 31 32 32 32 33 33 33 34 34 34 35 35 35

Active Campers Easy Cameron Companion Candy Canvas Explorer Campers Tray Back GT Campers Travelander Evron DC1 Travelander Evron DC2 Travelander Evron SC1 Travelander Evron SC2 Tray Trek Tailgater Trayon Single/Extra-cab 1830 Trayon Dual-cab Wedgetail Campers Skamper Kamper Ranger Easy Cameron Unlimited Complete Campsite Elite Campers Emu Camper Trailers Explorer Campers Lawson Southern Cross Bushmate SarMajor Camper XTrail Navigator Pod Kwik Kampa Brix Z Camper Complete Campsite Innovan XCn Track Trailer Tvan Vista RV Crossover Ranger Hard Floor Camprite TL8S Camp in Comfort Journeyman GT Campers ModCon Campers Travelander GEO Convert 1 Travelander GEO Convert 2 Autofridge portable fridge Hillbilly Camping Gear Korr Lighting LiftTrax Recovery Gear So Simple Solutions Camps Australia Workabout Australia

Editorial Editor Rob Fraser rob@ozroamer.com.au

Sub Editor Vicki Fraser vicki@ozroamer.com.au

Graphic Designer Natalie Sing info@nataliesingdesign.com.au

Regular Contributors Rob Fraser, Peter Wilson, Stephen Lawson, Chloe Fraser, Anthony Hood and Steve Tierney

OzRoamer Directory Listings Information supplied by manufacturers

Advertising Enquiries ozroamer@ozroamer.com.au

Editorial Enquiries Ph: 0434 566 999

Visit us at www.ozroamer.com.au OzRoamer Guide to Slide on Campers and Camper Trailers is published by Auto Alliance Group, P.O.Box 305 Cherrybrook NSW 2126. The publishers believe that all information that is supplied in this magazine was correct at the time of printing. Prices are supplied from manufacturers. The publishers do not however guarantee that prices are correct and suggest that you make your own enquiries and are not liable for any information being correct. It is not possible to ensure that advertisements comply with the Trade Practices Act 1974 and therefore it is the responsibility of the person submitting the advertisement. The Publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Copyright: Material appearing in OzRoamer Guide to Slide on Campers and Camper Trailers magazine and Auto Alliance Group Pty Ltd. Publications is copyright and reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

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Australian Made vs.

Imported One of the most controversial issues facing the camper trailer and slide on camper industry over the last few years is the Australian Made vs. Imported debate. The benefits of importing from overseas where there are significantly lower labour rates are substantial and a strong lure for manufacturers.

This article is not about denigrating imported products or promoting Australian manufacturers over importers, rather to allow readers to asses all the information and make an educated decision about their camper trailer or slide on camper purchase.

There is a difference between Australian Made, Australian Owned, Australian Assembled and Imported and sometimes the boundaries blur. This can happen quite deliberately in some instances.

The terms “100% Australian designed and built”, “Proudly Australian owned” or “Australian made and owned”, are used frequently by a number of manufacturers so it is not easy for the customer to determine the country of origin. It is this factor that has prompted the development of the Australian Manufactured Camper Trailers Guild.

There have been a couple of instances where previously Australian Made camper trailers are now made in China and the manufacturer is still trading on the earlier reputation as all Australian Made.

If it is important to you, ask the manufacturer where the different components of the trailer are made and where it is finally assembled.

If they are trying to hide the fact that they import ask why? There is nothing wrong with imported camper trailers, there is in hiding the fact or being misleading about it.

6

The key to buying a camper trailer or slide on camper is to make sure that the manufacturing process meets Australian standards.

This is equally important for Australian made as well as Imported and Australian assembled.

For example Imported Trailers do not have to meet any Australian Standards if they weigh under 4.5 tonnes. It is easy for an unscrupulous importer to simply slap on a compliance plate and sell the trailer without really complying.

Canvas: Does the canvas meet the standards of waterproofness, weathering, colour fastness, and resistance to UV breakdown, mould and mildew growth? Australian Made canvases are amongst the best in the world and come with a 5 year warranty. Unfortunately some imported canvases I have seen just don’t meet the standards. There is some quality amongst imported canvases as well, so you need to ask the questions.

Build Quality: Often build quality is an easy thing to spot. Look at the quality of the welds, are there any sharp edges? Are the welds starting to rust? Are the wires neatly contained? Is the canvas double stitched?

Does it match up at the seams or are there wrinkles? Do the drawers close easily and properly? Cosmetic defects are usually a sign of poor build quality. Other times it’s much harder to spot poor build quality.

There have been horrible instances of camper trailers where rusty steel has just been painted over, poor quality steel used, faulty wiring, soft steel for suspension, cheap canvas etc.

However here have been instances where an Australian manufacturer has simply put the wrong information on the compliance plates implying that they weigh much less than they actually did.

The important things to note are: • J ust because a camper trailer or slide on camper is made in Australia doesn’t mean it is well made • J ust because a camper trailer or slide on camper is imported doesn’t mean it is poorly made.

• I don’t know of one camper trailer or slide on camper that is 100% Australian made with 100% of the parts made solely in Australia The Australian Made vs. Imported debate centres on the premise that by buying a locally made product you are buying quality while protecting the local industry and jobs. That is the reasoning the Australian Manufactured Camper Trailers Guild The AMCTG believes it is trying to protect Australian consumers by offering this Guild as reassurance of buying from a genuine Australian manufacturer.

All members of the AMCTG are subjected to engineering compliance for Australian Standards and also confirm that their complete manufacturing process is conducted in Australia with the very best of materials – including chassis, body, suspension, tent and canvas. Guaranteed!

Some things to look for in any purchase whether it is imported or Australian Made: Chassis and Suspension: Australia has some of the harshest outback roads and tracks in the world. Corrugations can do unbelievable damage to a camper trailer being pulled behind a fast moving vehicle. Remember that you won’t feel even half the effect of the corrugations in your vehicle that your camper trailer will be feeling. I have seen wheel nuts sheer off and wheels rolling by the towing vehicle, suspension failure, cracked and even totally separated chassis members, welds come apart, camper bodies separate from the chassis, spare wheels simply sheer off etc.

There are some extremely well designed chassis and suspension systems in Australia that are used by a number of local manufacturers.

For example, the boys from Vehicle Components make a series of excellent suspension systems. There are also some poor suspension systems used on locally made camper trailers so make sure you do your research before you buy.

If the camper trailer is imported then please check that they have configured the suspension for harsh Australian conditions. Don’t believe the salesman, check the forums, speak to owners, read the unbiased reviews (those that are not tainted by advertising dollars) because neither China nor South Africa have anything like the type of roads we have here.

Warranty: Questions to ask are – How long is the warranty? What parts does the manufacturer cover and what is covered by suppliers e.g. suspension or water pump? Where can warranty work be done while travelling? Does it cover where you want to travel and is the cost of getting the trailer to service your cost or theirs? Do they have freight services for parts? Etc. The last thing you need when stuck in Broome is to have to send the camper trailer back to Melbourne, China or South Africa for a warranty fix.

I know of one buyer that bought a camper trailer from eBay, a Chinese import and just 12 weeks after they picked up the trailer had issues and when they tried to contact the supplier they had vanished.

Warranties range from 3 months, 12 months, 2 years through to 5 years and on with one of the best warranties in the industry offered by Trayon Slide On Campers - at 10 years.

All manufacturers have some warranty claims, it’s part of the business but the keys are how long the warranty is and how do they handle them that make the difference. It’s best to speak to existing owners for the best assessment of whether you will have issues after you buy.

Remember that being Australian Made is extremely important to those manufacturers that are part of the AMCTG. It is after all their business to promote their product in the best light. However as a consumer, it may not be as important to you. You may be just looking for the best value you can get and that your purchase does what you want and is trouble free.

It’s here that both common sense and “Caveat Emptor” (let the buyer beware) apply. If you are simply looking for a camper trailer to drive up the highway to a favourite caravan park by the sea once a year on annual holidays then the $3,999 camper trailer might be just the thing and better than the huge tent you would otherwise take.

However if you are looking to travel the outback and go to Cape York for example, then the $4,999 ‘heavy duty off road camper trailer’ may not cut it. That is whether its imported or locally made. Let me put it this way, you wouldn’t catch me dead in one of those up there, no matter how convincing the salesman and how cheap the price.

Remember a couple of things when you are about to buy!

• Fit for purpose is important.

• If it looks too good to be true then it usually is.

• You definitely get what you pay for in the camper trailer and slide on camper industry.

• Australia is a huge place and being stuck in the middle of it with a broken camper trailer is not the time to wish you hadn’t bought that cheap trailer after all.

• Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

7

Choosing a slide on camper Slide on campers are becoming more popular in Australia and cover the full range from tray back off road campers to what is essentially a caravan on the back of a ute. The slide on camper converts your ute into a fully-fledged camper simply by backing the ute under the camper and driving off.

Secondly the ute back campers that again are either hard top or canvas tent top, sitting in the tub of the ute. The construction material and configuration is usually similar to the canopy style but the main advantage is that these can allow you to walk into the camper if it has a pop top roof.

You can break them down into three categories: Firstly the tray back campers which are mainly for off road use.

These are canopies with either a hard lid or a canvas tent top with exceptional storage. Usually made of aluminium, steel or composite fibreglass panels, they slide on the flat tray of utes and can be standalone if you need the ute while at camp. The great advantage of these is storage. Often they have room for a kitchen and fridge along with drawers for other items.

Often these will have the lid extending over the body of the ute especially if they are dual cab utes. These are the pop top styles and very popular.

Thirdly the ute style camper that is like a caravan on the back of the ute. Made mostly from composite fibreglass panels, these can have a nose cone over the drivers’ cab where the sleeping area is, similar to a motorhome. They can be either full body or pop up style and are suited to a couple although there are some styles that will sleep 4 at a pinch.

Some of these canopies have lift up lids with canvas at the sides and the bed on top; some you sleep inside the canopy and others have a roof top tent on top.

8

Most of these will come with kitchens, gas and water supply, lounge areas, and shower/toilet areas, clothes cupboards and general storage.

In fact they are internally similar to normal small caravans or motorhomes.

They have the advantage of you being able to stand up inside as well.

whether you want to buy new or second hand. Like almost every other choice of recreational vehicle the first thing you need to decide is what style of travel are you looking to do. If it is on road the choices are wider allowing for the more campervan style. If you are more adventurous and want to go off road you would be advised to avoid the higher style models as they can be very top heavy, which is the last thing you want in off road situations.

There is a wide choice available second hand as well and unlike camper trailers which can cop a bit of abuse the slide on camper would only be likely to have some cosmetic damage as there are no mechanical parts like brakes etc.

With most utes the key thing to look at is weight. Like camper trailers weight is the enemy. Make sure that the slide on camper and all the gear you are taking won’t exceed the GVM of the ute. As most utes have close to the 800 – 1000kg capacity this is unlikely. However some of the ute back campers that are more caravan in style can be heavy.

This style of slide on camper provides the safety and comfort of a small campervan. The disadvantage is that you cannot walk through from the driver’s seat.

So what are the benefits of a slide on camper?

Firstly they are ideal for those travellers that don’t want to tow their living quarters. Having the bed on the back of the ute is very convenient.

It allows you to be more adventurous, especially in off road situations.

With a slide on camper you can travel to places where it would be impossible to get even an off road camper trailer into and have the benefit of comfortable camping when you get there.

How difficult is the slide on camper to get on and off? How long does it take and what are the legs like when it is stand-alone? Are the legs manual wind down or mechanical and can you store it when off the ute?

Some slide on campers are very easy to put on and off the ute while I have seen others that almost require a mechanical engineers’ degree to work. Either way it will be more complicated than simply hooking up a camper trailer.

Like all sleeping accommodation, space and ventilation are key elements.

Is the camper insulated? Dust and weatherproof? Does it allow room for all your gear and does it look good on the back?

Secondly they allow you to tow a boat or bike trailer or horse float behind. This is something you couldn’t do or would have difficulty with in the case of a boat, if you had a camper trailer behind. Slide on campers are ideal in this situation where you need to take something else along on the trip other than sleeping accommodation.

Thirdly they allow you to make maximum use of your ute and there are no extra registration fees as the camper sits on the back of the ute. They generally make the most of available space and are cheaper than what you could buy as an equivalent camper trailer, caravan or campervan.

You get most of the benefits of a camper trailer or a campervan without the extra costs associated with them. As there are no mechanical parts, service and maintenance costs are minimal.

Lastly they are perfect for couples and small families that want compact travel style.

One of the key factors in deciding on a slide on camper is warranty. How long is the warranty? What parts does the manufacturer cover and what is covered by suppliers e.g. canvas or water pump? Where can warranty work be dome while travelling? Does it cover where you want to travel and is the cost of getting the trailer to service your cost or theirs? Do they have freight services for parts? Etc. The last thing you need when stuck in Broome is to have to send the camper trailer back to Melbourne for a warranty fix.

Warranties range from 3 months, 12 months, 2 years like Travelander, through to 5 years like Wedgetail Campers and on with one of the best warranties in the industry offered by Trayon slide on Campers at 10 years.

All manufacturers have some warranty claims, it’s part of the business but the keys are how many and how do they handle them that make the difference. It’s best to speak to existing owners for the best assessment of whether you will have issues after you buy.

Overall the slide on camper is a growing market segment that whatever your travel plans, whether it’s weekends away or the big trip around Australia, offers mobility, convenience and flexibility for a couple or small family and a viable alternative to a camper trailer.

Things you need to look for when considering your purchase include Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

9

A-Z

of buying a camper trailer A Acrylic Some manufacturers use an acrylic material instead of canvas. This is especially so when it is a slide on camper or hard top camper and the acrylic is used only on the sides below the roof. 100% acrylic is generally UV stabilised, mildew & rot resistant and comes in assorted colours. Ideal for blinds, awnings, umbrellas, boat covers, boat hooding, outdoor furniture and cushions. As acrylic is very expensive it is generally used in smaller areas, but is extremely hard wearing and excellent quality.

A Frame This is the front of the trailer often referred to as the drawbar. It always houses the coupling, safety chains and hand brake assembly. Also it usually houses storage boxes, gas bottles, jerry cans, battery box etc.

Make sure that the ‘A’ frame is long enough so that when you open your rear door (especially with side opening doors) the stone deflector is far enough back to allow the door to fully open and the handbrake assembly is below the door.

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The coupling will probably be welded on but in trailers over 1,000Kg they need to be bolted.

Check how far back the ‘A’ frame goes under the body of the trailer; in off road trailers it should be to the axle assembly and attached to the spring hangers. Remember that the further back the more distribution of the torsional forces of towing throughout the chassis.

The distance from the front of the trailer body to the ‘A’ point makes a difference to the characteristics and dynamics of the trailer handling. The shorter the ‘A’ frame the better articulation you will have in extreme off road situations. The longer the ‘A’ frame the better the trailer will tow and it is easier to reverse.

After Sales Service Before you buy is the best time to find out what the after sales service is like. Somebody has already bought the camper trailer you are about to buy and the best people to talk to are owners. Check out the blogs, camper trailer Org.. etc. If there are problems then you will likely find out about it on these.

Can you inspect the factory? Do they have an owner’s club? What is the warranty and where do you have to get work done? If you are in Broome and a wheel hub breaks you don’t want to have to send the camper trailer back to Melbourne to have it fixed.

Often the first interactions are how they will continue. Are the manufacturers or dealers easy to contact and get answers from? Are they patient with you or do they just want to sell you a trailer and move on. Remember previous owners are the best way to establish what the after sales service is like.

Australian Made It’s important for buyers to understand the differences between Australian Made, Australian Assembled and Imported camper trailers and sometimes the boundaries blur.

This can happen quite deliberately in some instances. The terms “100% Australian designed and built”, “Proudly Australian owned” or “Australian made and owned”, are

used frequently by a number of manufacturers so it is not easy for the customer to determine the country of origin. It is this factor that has prompted the development of the Australian Manufactured Camper Trailers Guild to help buyers to understand which manufacturers meet their requirements. Note that NO camper trailer is 100% Australian Made as many of the components are imported.

However the parts such as the chassis, suspension, body and canvas etc are generally of better quality if Australian Made.

goes the full length of the trailer, including the ‘A’ frame or at least to the front of the storage boxes. Remember that canvas is heavy and an awning that is often 7 metres in length and 3 metres wide is not only heavy but needs storage along with poles and ropes etc.

The first thing is that the battery needs to be of a deep cycle style that has some form of charging system, preferably a trickle charge or through an Anderson plug as well as a 240v charger.

Many seasoned travellers may take an end wall section that can be applied with Velcro to assist with protection from the elements.

Some trailers will have room to fold up the tent section with the awning attached which can save time every time you set up.

B Ball Weight The ball weight is one of the critical features to look out for. It is here that many purchasers come unstuck through either being misinformed about the ball weight of the trailer, over packing the trailer or having the wrong tow vehicle.

If it is important to you, ask the manufacturer where the different components of the trailer are made and where it is finally assembled.

If they are trying to hide the fact that they import ask why? There is nothing wrong with imported camper trailers, there is in hiding the fact or being misleading about it.

Generally you want to have between 10-15% of the loaded weight of the trailer on the tow ball.

If in doubt, have the tow ball weight measured at a weigh station or by using one of the clever gadgets like the Hayman Reese scales.

Too heavy and you will be shooting possums with the headlights shining into the trees whereas too light and the handling of the trailer will suffer.

For more information see the separate article in the magazine.

Bearings and Hubs This is an often-overlooked topic. The strength of a camper trailer comes from the chassis up and the bearings play a major part in the robustness of the trailer.

This is one case where bigger is definitely better. Sorry Guys.

Don’t take the manufacturer supplied weight as gospel either, as they have a vested interest in making the ball weight as low as possible, often telling pork pies in the process. I have seen tow ball weights that are advertised as 100Kg, be as heavy as 250Kg when loaded. That’s a lot of difference. Ball weight can be affected by packing as well.

You need to match the vehicle tow ball weight with the trailer tow ball weight. If the trailer is too heavy on the tow ball you may void your insurance and even your warranty on the vehicle.

Remember while not necessary it’s always handy to be able to lift the ‘A’ frame if you have to manoeuvre by hand.

Travel the outback with overnight stops and the last thing you want is a set of walls to put up every night. Look for an awning that ideally

The larger the battery (measured in amp hours) the better, but this adds more weight.

Check where the battery in mounted and does that comply with venting requirements etc.

What is suitable for a trailer that takes an occasional load of rubbish to the tip is totally unsuitable for a trailer to take you to the tip of Cape York.

Awning Awnings can range from sunshades to fully enclosed set ups. What suits you better depends on what type of travel you like to do.

Go to a caravan park for three weeks over Christmas holidays and you would be more inclined to go for a fully enclosed awning to give you extra space.

Charging through one of the pins in the trailer’s electrical coupling is ok but not ideal.

Does the battery have a management system to prevent overcharging?

Battery Do you need a battery system on your trailer?

If the answer is yes than you need to look for the following.

Heavy duty off road camper trailers should have 2500 – 3300Kg bearings to cope with the loads and stresses of kilometres of corrugations and articulation where the weight of the trailer is often on one wheel.

On road camper trailers can utilise smaller bearings as the loads and stresses are substantially less. Ask the questions about servicing; spares, inspection and size to endure you have all the information.

Bedding How many do you want to sleep? Some trailers like the Camprite TL8S are ideal for up to 2 adults and 4 kids all up off the ground. There are as many camper trailers for families as there are for couples.

If you are travelling for any length of time an innerspring mattress is a worthwhile option and money well spent. Foam, no matter how dense, can become uncomfortable after a while.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

11

Do you want a queen size or will a double bed size mattress do? Is the mattress the same size all over or is it tapered to fit. Is the mattress orientated sideways or longways? If it is sideways one partner invariably has to climb over the other person to get out.

Is the bed easy to access? How many steps to get into it? Is the ladder easy on the feet as you will mostly be in bare feet when you’re going to bed? Where does the ladder stow away?

Where will the kids sleep? These all seem like small questions but if you travel for any length of time they will become significant.

One key feature to look for is are you able to pack the trailer up with the bed already made, because making your bed every night if you are touring will become tiresome very quickly. The other thing to look for is does the canvas fold onto the bed, and what happens if it is wet?

Boat Rack Do you want to take a boat? If so most manufacturers have options for lift off or swing out boat racks and outboard motor holders.

How are you going to get the boat to the water when the camper trailer is set up. Do you need a fold up boat trailer? If that all seems too much when you’re in camp, befriend someone with a boat, chances are they will jump at the chance to have someone go along with them and help etc.

Brakes Another topic that is often overlooked by purchasers who focus on the bling. Firstly if your camper trailer has an ATM over 750Kg then it needs brakes. There are essentially three types of braking systems and two types of brakes.

The three types of braking systems are hydraulic, mechanical & electric.

Hydraulic Override - these types of brakes are rarely found on camper trailers. The system uses hydraulic fluid instead of a cable to activate the brakes. The fluid requires a reservoir and is connected to the brakes through a brake line.

Personally I would avoid these, as there are extra complications with checking the fluid for impurities, especially water and changing it regularly and the possibility of nicking the brake lines. They also don’t allow linear braking in the sense that they are either on or off.

Mechanical Override – often favoured by manufacturers that like to keep things simple and robust. The drum brakes work literally by the force of the trailer running up the back of the vehicle on the coupling. When this happens a cable that controls the brakes becomes tight applying the brakes.

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These styles of brakes are simple and the tow vehicle doesn’t need a brake controller fitted.

There are some downsides though. Similar to the hydraulic brakes in that they don’t allow linear braking in that they are either on or off.

They aren’t as effective in off road situations when the trailer is at an angle to the vehicle or on slippery tracks etc where they may make control of the trailer more difficult.

Electric Brakes – are another example of you get what you pay for. They are more expensive than override brakes and require the tow vehicle to have a brake controller fitted but are far superior to override brakes.

They work on either drum or disc brakes and apply a linear or constant pressure to the brakes. The vehicle-mounted controller allows adjustment of the amount of brake pressure that is applied to the trailer. Some of the benefits of electric brakes are that the trailer is actually braking itself, not pushing up against the tow coupling.

Another benefit is that through the controller you can actually brake the trailer without braking the vehicle, allowing for more control in critical situations or to dry the brakes.

The electric brakes linear braking force can be used to assist control in off road situations like steep slippery descents etc.

You will need to spend between $300-$400 on a vehicle mounted control unit. This allows control over the braking power through the trailer wiring. The pendulum style of controller is the better style.

If you have brakes on the trailer you should also include a handbrake. If you ever try to move a trailer on a slope without it you will never do it again.

construction standards that conform to the Australian Design Rules (ADR) and Australian Standards (AS). Some might also be Quality Endorsed companies and some may offer a lifetime warranty.

Often build quality is an easy thing to spot.

Look at the quality of the welds, are there any sharp edges? Are the wires neatly contained?

Is the canvas double stitched? Does it match up at the seams or are there wrinkles? Do the drawers close easily and properly? Cosmetic defects are usually a sign of poor build quality. Other times it’s much harder to spot poor build quality. There have been horrible instances of camper trailers where rusty steel has just been painted over, poor quality steel used, faulty wiring, soft steel for suspension, cheap canvas etc.

c Canvas All canvas is not the same folks! There can be a substantial difference between imported canvas and canvas which is made in Australia.

The polyester & cotton canvas used in campers these days are usually a mixture of 50/50 poly/cotton blend or 65/35 poly/ cotton blends. The polyester is for the strength and durability and the cotton is for the waterproofing and breathing aspect. The cotton will take up water, swell and sit in place. This combined with the waterproofing; waxing agents etc placed on the canvas makes it an ideal breathable waterproof structure for camper trailers.

The two types of brakes are Drum and Disc.

Drum brakes will work with all the types of braking systems. They are easy to clean, maintain and find parts for. Disc brakes are more expensive and better suited to on road trailers as off road they can be vulnerable to dirt and stones being trapped.

If you think that you are going to use the trailer in lots of water or in salt water you might consider marine drum brakes that have stainless steel fittings. These are resistant to corrosion and are cleaned by fitting a hose and washing them out.

The next thing to consider is the size of the brakes. They range in size from 8, 10 and 12-inch brakes with bigger being the better.

Build Quality Buy the best camper trailer you can for your money. Don’t be tempted by all the add ons, they have no intrinsic build quality. Look for trailer manufacturers that actually have

Some trailers will have lightweight polyester, which is waterproof but doesn’t breathe.

Key things to look for are the weight. Most will be either 10 or 12oz and sometimes 15oz.

Often the walls and roof will be different weights, generally heavier on the roof. The new styles of 10 or 11oz canvas made in Australia is as a double wrap, double weft weave. That is two strands woven one-way, two strands

woven the other. This makes the end product being tightly woven, just as strong and durable as the 15oz, just as waterproof as the 15oz but really half the weight. Next check the sewing, is it double seamed or single stitched?

Remember that canvas shrinks and often, different weights will shrink at different rates.

Cheaper canvas will shrink more than better quality, is more susceptible to mould, mildew and often leaking, as the seams are usually single stitched.

Look for reinforced pockets where poles are inserted or rub against the canvas and also sewn in pockets for knickknacks etc. Have a look and see if you can see through the canvas in the light, cheaper canvas tends to be thinner.

The height of the tent will have a dramatic effect on how hot it gets inside as will having large windows with midge proof mesh that allow cross ventilation. Believe me sand flies are nobody’s friend.

Chassis The strength of a camper trailer comes from its chassis. What is acceptable for an on road trailer that is used once a year for a couple of weeks at a caravan park is totally different to what is necessary for a heavy duty off road camper.

skimp on the chassis otherwise you will have a trailer that has all the bells and whistles sitting by the side of the road going nowhere.

There have been some questions over whether hot dipping the chassis weakens it. The answer is, if done right it doesn’t. However if there is any breaking of the coating after it is done then that will become and entry point for corrosion.

Corrugations Australia has some of the harshest outback roads and tracks in the world. Corrugations can do unbelievable damage to a camper trailer being pulled behind a fast moving vehicle. Remember that you won’t feel even half the effect of the corrugations in your vehicle that your camper trailer will be feeling.

I have seen wheel nuts sheer off and wheels rolling by the towing vehicle, suspension failure, cracked and even totally separated chassis members, welds come apart, camper bodies separate from the chassis, spare wheels simply sheer off etc.

Cost There really is no getting away from the fact that to a certain point you get what you pay for. Camper trailers can range in price from around $3,000 right up to $50,000 plus.

Nobody in his or her right mind can expect to pay $5,000 for a heavy duty off road camper trailer and take it to Cape York and expect it to come back in perfect condition, no matter what the salesperson says.

By the same token it is hard to justify paying $55,000 for what is essentially a tent on a trailer with questionable bells and whistles.

The old adage of quality is remembered long after price is forgotten applies. Buy the best quality for what you can afford and you will be rewarded in the long run with less hassles and better resale price. Quality second hand camper trailers can retain their value remarkably well.

If you’re not sure there are plenty of places to hire and try before you buy.

Put simply, if you want to buy a camper trailer for off road use there are a number of things to consider. If the suspension doesn’t have shock absorbers then be prepared for a bouncy trailer that will shake the bejessus out of itself and all the contents. These simply aren’t designed for corrugated roads. There are some extremely well designed suspension systems in Australia that are used by a number of local manufacturers. For example the boys from Vehicle Components make a series of excellent suspension systems. There are also some poor suspension systems used on locally made camper trailers so make sure you do your research before you buy.

Coupling

If the camper trailer is imported then please check that they have configured the suspension for harsh Australian conditions. Don’t believe the salesman, check the forums, speak to owners, read the unbiased reviews (those that are not tainted by advertising dollars) because neither China nor South Africa have anything like the type of roads we have here.

If you are heading for the adventurous camping then the choices are more diverse.

The range includes a Hitchmaster DO35, AT35, TREG, Trig, Orac, Oz Hitch, McHitch Uniglide and Hyland to name a few.

The first decision you need to make is if you need the trailer for on road or off road use. If it is on road use then the choice is simple, a standard 50mm ball coupling is all you need.

If you anticipate off road use then the next question you need to ask is how extreme do you intend to go. The ability to have 270 or 360-degree articulation is great but is needed for only the most extreme situations.

For example, one of my fellow writers has taken a pop up caravan to Cape York along the Telegraph Track with just a standard coupling. Something I wouldn’t recommend but achievable.

Is the chassis painted steel or hot dipped galvanised, which is better for durability.

Chassis frames should be at least 50mm x 50mm x 3mm and often 75mm x 50mm x 3mm, which is stronger and more robust. The ‘A’ frame will often be 100mm x 50mm x 4mm for extra strength. The thicker the steel the stronger the chassis.

Some manufacturers make the ‘A’ frame from RHS Steel, which is a right angle bar. If the chassis or ‘A’ frame is RHS make sure it is at least 100mm x 75mm x 6mm and the ‘A’ frame should be at least 125mm x 75mm x 6mm for off road use. Smaller is acceptable for on road use.

A full chassis is stronger and essential for off road use. Remember the strength of a camper trailer comes from what is underneath. Don’t

There are a couple of things for you to think about. Any hitch that requires a pin to go through a hole in a poly block is incredibly

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difficult to line up in some off road situations.

These may have great articulation but the first time you need to move a trailer in sand towards the car you will remember these words and curse me.

Make sure the wiring is neatly tucked away or clipped and out of the way, especially underneath. Loose wiring is a recipe for trouble.

The styles that have a drop in pin like the DO35 and McHitch are easier to use.

However the easiest to use and provides more than enough articulation is the Hyland Coupling. It fits over a standard 50mm ball so dropping the trailer on is easy. If you need more articulation than it provides then you should probably check your insurance because you might be in a spot of bother.

This is where things can get expensive. Some extras are valuable for specific needs and some are just bling. Its best to decide on what style of travelling you intend to do and pick extras that suit, not what looks good. Often you may be able to find accessories that are just as capable but cheaper on the market.

d Dust Sealing This is really important. Sleeping on a bed full of dust is not anybody’s idea of fun. Nothing is completely dust proof, especially from bulldust, but many camper trailers do a bloody good job at it. Some are appalling.

This is mostly important for off road camper trailers that are more likely to be on dirt roads or outback tracks. However on road camper trailers also can suffer from dust as well.

Flat rubber seals will do an ok job but double pinch weld rubber seals are much better.

Check the rear tailgate, as most dust and water will come in there.

Extras

Fly Screens Only get midge proof screens. You really will wish you did if you don’t.

Fridge Is there room for a fridge in the camper trailer?

If so is the bin vented to allow the fridge to run while driving. If you buy an Autofridge, which is Eutectic, then that’s not necessary as it stays cold without running.

f Finish Hot dipped galvanising or quality paint is essential. However do you really need the trailer the same colour as your car? Finish is also in the details, such as neatly tucked wiring, clamps to hold down the roof in stainless steel, KKK Zips etc. Look for quality not flash looks or bells and whistles.

Floor The choices are hard floor or soft floor.

Hard floor is where the lid on the camper trailer folds over to form a base to stand on.

Soft floor is where the tent section has a waterproof vinyl floor attached.

If it is a three-way fridge, avoid running it on gas as you drive and definitely when you are refuelling.

g Gas Bottle

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If you have a kitchen in the camper trailer then you will need a gas bottle. Do you want one or two? Gas bottles are heavy and a 9Kg gas bottle will last for ages. Often it’s better to swap it or fill it before it gets empty, than carry a spare that you are unlikely to ever use. If you want to carry a spare carry two 4.5Kg bottles instead.

Electrical System If you are intending to stay anywhere away from a powered site at a caravan park then you will probably need a battery system.

The battery needs to be a deep cycle battery minimum 100AH for any effectiveness. This can be recharged by trickle charge when connected to the trailer through the normal 7-pin harness or by Anderson Plug. You should also look for a 240V charger with overload protection from overcharging. Ideally the charger should switch on automatically when you plug in 240V. More advanced management systems have amp meters, Voltmeter and multiswitch panels with built in fuses etc, which allow you to see the charge and usage at a glance. These are useful but can be expensive.

Ensure the outlets are in useful and practical places throughout the living area and externally.

Some trailers are wired for 240V as well, which to my mind is a complete waste of money, as a decent power board will do the job effectively.

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There are other variants such as the Camprite TSL8, which has side-fold lids and the body of the trailer forms the floor. Also the ModCon camper trailer has the lid fold over the front storage bins, which is a novel idea.

Soft floor trailers are usually cheaper but in many ways it is like camping in a tent. Hard floor trailers keep everything up off the ground but are more expensive and usually heavier.

Consider the little butane canister stoves. At $20 from Kmart, the canisters last a while, are available almost everywhere and a hell of a lot lighter than a 9Kg bottle. Always remember that gas is dangerous and to check connections and lines constantly. Once you see a bottle explode you will NEVER forget it.

h Hire vs. Buy Buying a camper trailer is expensive but a quality one will last for years. If it is for a one off trip or only once a year consider hiring one and save your capital. Also it can be advisable to hire before you buy, especially for first time buyers.

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idea is lights at the head of the sleeping area for reading. Outside lighting is extremely handy especially over the kitchen area.

Insurance

Look for 12V outlets as well in practical places and externally as well.

Has the manufacturer registered their camper trailer as that or a box trailer? Can I get cover for off road travel or only on registered roads? Are the contents covered and does my comprehensive cover for the car cover third party property for the trailer?

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There have been some dramatic improvements in camping lighting over the last few years. It doesn’t seem like that long ago when we all had gas lights with their fragile mantles. Then the 12V lights became the popular choice. Now with the advancements in LED lights you simply wouldn’t choose anything else. They are cheap, long lasting and robust and give off great light all while having minimal drain on your power supply.

Jerry Can Holder

Locks

These are a great idea for extra fuel and water.

Where are they located and can you lock them.

How many do you need? Some camper trailers, like the Trak Shak, carry the water in them and have heaps. External holders (to the body of the trailer) for fuel may be illegal in some states.

Pretty much everything should be lockable and where possible keyed alike. Water filler cap, jerry can holders, gas bottle holder, external storage bins, and the main body of the camper all need to be locked.

Jockey Wheel

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The heavier the ball weight the heavier the jockey wheel needs to be. Does it fold up and if not is there a place for it? Clamps are also a good idea on the ‘A’ Frame. Do you need solid rubber, pneumatic or even twin wheel with handle to assist in moving the trailer? The jockey wheel is the only way to move the trailer when unattached so it’s relatively important.

Often a table with butane burners and a plastic tub for washing up are just as effective and a lot less weight and cost for your camper trailer.

l Lighting If you have power to the camper trailer you will need 12V lighting inside the tent area. A good

Packing up The dreaded pack up. Little things make a huge difference. Can the awning be left attached?

Can the bed be left made up? Can I throw the kid’s beds on top of the main bed? Do I have to repack everything in the body of the trailer? Is there a place for everything to stow away?

Plug You may find this strange, however different states have different plugs for the wiring harness. Some are 7 pin flat; some are 7 pin round and some 7 pin large round. Make sure the trailer comes with a plug that matches your towing vehicle. Also, somewhere to store the plug when not connected is a clever idea.

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Kitchen

Ideally, you would be able to access the kitchen without opening the camper up. Think about how many burners do you actually need? Does the gas need to be connected every time and if not is there a cut off switch? Is the kitchen under cover if raining? Do you need a grill?

Where does the sink water go?

Common sense prevails here, if you pay $4,999 for an off road camper trailer with all the bells and whistles, and take it to Cape York, you may get there but I’m sure you will leave bits of it along the trail home. The corrugations up there are some of the worst in the world.

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k Kitchens can range from a camping table with a butane burner stove and plastic tub for washing up to a full on slide out stainless steel kitchen with electric hot and cold running water. Both do the same job funnily enough.

sealing, proper off road tyres preferably matching your tow vehicle. This comes in handy if you ever try to change a tyre on the trailer where the spare is tucked neatly up under the chassis, but you happen to be in 8 inches of sticky, black, smelly mud, you will never forget it. Easily accessible spare tyres are essential.

Racks

Off Road ability If you are serious about an off road camper trailer check the clearance, departure angle, that everything is tucked away underneath, length of ‘A’ frame, type of coupling etc. The shorter the camper trailer the better off road it will be.

There is a balance to the length of the ‘A’ frame.

Longer makes towing and reversing the camper trailer an easier proposition, but reduces ramp over angle and manoeuvrability in tight situations.

Shorter means better off road ability at the expense of on road handling etc. The lighter the camper the better as you are dragging less weight through mud, over rocks or through the sand. Good suspension is paramount. The best is air bag followed by quality independent then the ‘HiLux’ style but properly calibrated and fitted shock absorbers are essential.

Other things to look for are electric brakes (override don’t work off road effectively), dust

If you want to take a boat, canoe, bikes or even store firewood etc, racks are a great idea.

Make sure they are not in the way for set up as unloading these items every night will become tiresome after the first time.

Rear Stabilizer Legs Some camper trailers require rear stabilizer legs as part of their design. Are they easy to set up and out of the way when not in use?

Rear View With the camper trailer hooked up will I be able to see over the top? How wide is it and do I need extended side mirrors?

Registration Make sure the purchase price includes registration in your state. A simple thing but a few buyers have been caught out.

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Recovery Hooks

Spare Wheel

Storage

Probably not necessary if it’s an on road camper trailer but a good idea if it’s an off road version. Make sure they are sturdy, attached to the chassis frames etc and can take the pressure of a recovery operation. You would be surprised how many times you might have to drag the trailer out backwards.

The best place for the spare wheel is on a swing away at the rear of the trailer. Next best place is on the ‘A’ Frame and the worst place is underneath. Have you ever tried to get a spare wheel from under a trailer when it’s stuck in mud with a flat? You will never do it again.

How much storage do you need?

Unfortunately the more storage you have the more gear you are likely to take, much of which will be unused or unnecessary.

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Where will you put your fridge, gas bottles, jerry cans and outboard motor? Is there a spot for items like chain saw, firewood etc?

Does the storage have easy access and does the bed lift up? Do the front storage bins have a door or wing lids and is it lined and weatherproof with a light?

Set Up This shouldn’t be a problem as apparently every camper trailer on the market only takes 30 seconds to set up according to the sales people. In reality, some are quicker than others and one person can easily put them up, however some need two people.

If it is a hard floor check the weight of the floor when you are putting it up. It can be heavy, especially if you have an injury and your other half needs to do it. Some manufacturers have a handy wind up system.

Soft floor tents tend to need a couple of people to get it set up and also tend to take longer than hard floor styles.

There are always two types of set ups as well. An overnight stay and an extended stay set up. If you are touring you want the quickest overnight set up. For the annual holidays to the caravan park, it doesn’t matter as much how long it takes, as you will be there for a while. However a set up like this with full awning and walls etc can take an hour to set up, and longer to pack up.

There needs to be storage that is easily accessed with the camper trailer closed. It needs to allow for weight distribution, not all over the ‘A frame and will fit your boxes etc.

Also remember that awning poles are awkward to store unless there is a specially designed area for them, which is usually behind the storage bins at the front of the trailer.

Suspension Stone Deflectors There are two areas where deflecting stones are vital. The first is from stones bouncing back up into the rear window of your vehicle and the second is behind the wheels of the trailer.

The stone deflector needs to be across the front of the ‘A’ frame, facing down and loose.

If it is hard it’s like a trampoline and the stones bounce. If it is looser, they are absorbed more and drop down. If the deflector is angled sideways, then the stones will just bounce off into other cars on the other side of the road.

Choices include air bags, independent coil, and independent leaf spring with shock absorbers, heavy-duty leaf springs, solid axle with leaf springs & shock absorbers and lastly, torsion bar suspension.

Air bag suspension is really overkill on a camper trailer. Independent coil is expensive, heavy but effective, especially in corrugated and off road situations.

Solar Panels Solar panels can be a useful accessory for extended bush camping. However you should question the viability of having panels on the camper trailer. Portable panels are often better as they allow you to position them to make full use of the available sun without moving your camper trailer or parking it in the sun.

Spares Kit A spares kit for bearings and seals, hubs, shocks, water fittings etc is a great idea.

Ask if the manufacturer can supply such a kit, as it will save you a heap of time and running around.

Underneath the front storage bins is an area that also cops a fair punishment from stones that flick up from the tow vehicle so it’s a good idea to have something there as well.

Mud flaps behind the trailer wheels also save an enormous amount of wear. It’s advisable to have an extra set of large mud flaps on the tow vehicle like the Rock Tamers you see at the shows.

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Leaf spring set ups, in whatever form they take, are well proven and robust. If you are going off road, get shocks (with the right pitch) as well or the trailer will bounce everywhere. Make sure you get the right springs for the right weight/use of trailer. If over-engineered, then your trailer could bounce excessively on some tracks or if too soft, it will “bottom-out”, potentially breaking leaves.

Solid axle and torsion bar suspension are fine for on road camper trailers.

Whatever type you decide upon ensure that spare parts are easily accessible when travelling.

t Trailer Track If you are intending to travel off road, a school of thought is to match the track (width between the tyres) of the trailer to the towing vehicle. This makes sense if you are only ever driving in a straight line. As soon as you move the wheel the trailer tyres make their own track. Matching the wheels and tyres is a better idea.

Travel Cover Applicable to soft floor camper trailers where there is a vinyl cover over the tent.

The Australian sun is harsh so quality here is paramount. So is dust proofing, best with zip and Velcro overlap.

Type of Trailer The key decisions you need to make include: firstly do you want to travel on road or off road? Then do you want a hard floor or soft floor? Do you want a dedicated specifically designed camper trailer or a box trailer that you can add camping gear to? Do you want side fold or rear fold? Do you want all people to sleep up off the floor and is it for two or more people?

w Warranty Questions to ask are – How long is the warranty? What parts does the manufacturer cover and what is covered by suppliers e.g. suspension or water pump? Where can warranty work be done while travelling? Does it cover where you want to travel and is the cost of getting the trailer to service your cost or theirs? Do they have freight services for parts? Etc. The last thing you need when stuck in Broome is to have to send the camper trailer back to Melbourne for a warranty fix.

I know of one buyer that bought a camper trailer from eBay, a Chinese import and just 12 weeks after they picked up the trailer had issues and when they tried to contact the supplier they had vanished.

Warranties range from 3 months, 12 months, 2 years through to 5 years and on with one of the best warranties in the industry offered by Trayon slide on Campers - at 10 years.

All manufacturers have some warranty claims, it’s part of the business but the keys are how many years and how do they handle them that make the difference. It’s best to speak to existing owners for the best assessment of whether you will have issues after you buy.

Water Carrying water is a good idea! The water tank ideally should be mounted as close as possible to the axle in the rear. If it is at the extreme front or rear that can both help and hinder with weight distribution.

Water tanks should be baffled to prevent sloshing and be either stainless steel or food grade material with food grade hoses. The filling cap should be lockable and accessible. If you have a hand pump make sure it is accessible but tucked away. An electric pump is a good idea but be careful, they can empty a tank in minutes if left running. Maybe have both styles of pumps.

Having access to water without opening the kitchen is also handy.

Two smaller tanks is often a good idea, that way if you have a source of water that you need but not sure about you can put it in the second tank, and if you get a leak you still have spare water.

Make sure that stone guards protect both the tanks and the hose connections underneath. Are the tanks easy to empty to clean for storage?

Weight of Trailer The three things to consider are how heavy is the camper trailer (tare weight), what is its ATM which will tell you how much extra gear you can legally load into it and what is the tow ball weight loaded. Remember weight is the enemy of economy, ease of driving and manoeuvrability etc.

towing vehicle, especially if you are going to remote destinations. With two spares, a good tyre repair kit & a pump, you can get yourself out of trouble & on the road again. If you can’t match the wheel and tyres make sure that the trailer has good quality off road tyres, possibly even light truck tyres. The minimum size should be 15-inch and ideally 16 or 17-inch tyres.

Windows The rule here is to have as many as possible and as big as possible, with roll up awning covers. You need large well-placed windows to enhance the feeling of openness and fresh air. Also insist on midge proof mesh, anything else is just a waste of money.

Weight Distribution The layout of the trailer and packing can have a dramatic effect on the tow ball weight and handling characteristics of the trailer.

For example if the water tank is totally at the rear when it empties there is relatively more weight on the tow ball with less weight in the tank. A litre of water weights 1kg so a 100L tank when full weighs 100kg. Look for a chassis that has the water tanks as close to the centre as possible.

If you have a storage box on the front of the camper trailer full of gear, a couple of full jerry cans and gas bottle, all of a sudden the tow ball weight has increased dramatically from what has been quoted. Look for trailers that allow you to distribute items to allow you to manage weight distribution.

Wheels and Tyres Firstly NEVER put retreads or second-hand wheels and tyres on your camper trailer. If you are buying an on road camper trailer ensure that they are fitted with good quality road tyres. A blow out on the trailer can be more devastating than on a car as the weight of the trailer out of control can flip a car.

If you are looking for an off road camper trailer ideally you can match the wheel and tyre combination (including offset and studs) to the

z Zip There are more zips than you realise on a camper trailer. They are on the windows, doors and awnings. These are not like a zip on a pair of jeans, if something goes wrong with the zip on a camper trailer you often have to take the entire tent off to fix it. One way of overcoming this is to use a zip like the KKK style that has replaceable teeth.

Zips also cop a lot of abuse, usually by accident, but nevertheless are an item that has lots of stress on them. Better quality zips will make the camping experience more pleasurable. If you’re at your favourite beach camping spot and the zip gets stuck or breaks, the sand flies will have a field day.

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Choosing your Tow Vehicle What comes first the chicken or the egg?

Do you choose the camper trailer or the towing vehicle first?

Ideally you would decide on what type of travelling you are looking to do first. Do you want to stay purely on the roads, venture slightly off road or be adventurous and go far off the beaten track? What size camper trailer do you want?

Not only do these choices decide what type of camper trailer you should look for but also the type of tow vehicle as well. The best tow vehicle is the one that suits your needs. Simple really!

Tow vehicles can come in all shapes and sizes; they can be petrol or diesel, automatic or manual, car or ute etc. Here we will run through a few of the choices, what works with what and hope to help you decide what you need. These are the questions that all buyers have to answer.

If you have an existing vehicle and are not looking to replace it then you may already have some decision parameters made for you. Make sure that your existing vehicle can tow the camper trailer you buy legally and safely.

If you are buying an on road camper trailer then you have the widest choice. You can choose a normal sedan or hatchback as long as you match the tow rating of the vehicle to the trailer.

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Buying a normal sedan, wagon or hatchback has its advantages in savings on purchase and running costs that can be substantial and you have a normal car to run around in when you’re not towing. Power is usually not a question and even some of the mid sized sedans have adequate towing capacity for small to medium size on road camper trailers.

However even if you are only keeping to the roads you may want to buy a 4WD or SUV to allow more adventurous exploring from your base camp when you are travelling.

Unquestionably the most popular tow vehicle is the larger 4WD followed by the 4WD dual cab ute. For the larger on road camper trailer or an off road version then you have little choice but to go for the 4WD vehicles.

For the most part they have a higher towing capacity, higher tow ball ratings and stiffer springs. For the heavier loads the bigger 4WDs have a 3500kg towing capacity and a 350kg tow ball rating.

One thing to keep in mind is that when towing, an added safety feature is having excess capacity i.e. not towing a trailer that is at the limit of the tow vehicle’s capacity. This places much less stress on the vehicle and driver.

Remember that phrase - it’s horses for courses when it comes to tow vehicles.

If you are looking for an off road camper trailer that will allow you to be more adventurous but not necessarily wanting to head to Cape York then you should have a look at the growing number of AWD SUVs. These will tow with ease and some of them are surprisingly capable on dirt roads etc.

Some have up to 3,000kg towing capacity but watch the tow ball capacity carefully as some manufacturers (including 4WDs) reduce the rating if the vehicle is loaded internally. The OzRoamer 4WD & SUV Guide has the tow ball rating and towing capacity of over 150 models.

However like many segments of the car market there has been a trend away from these cars and smaller, lifestyle vehicles have grown in popularity. This has seen the proliferation of 6 cylinder front wheel drive vehicles from manufacturers like Toyota and Ford that have adequate towing capacities as well. Even some of the smaller 4 cylinder engines are good if you are towing a smaller camper trailer.

Some of the hatchbacks and wagons have AWD without any pretence of off road capability, such as the Volvo V70 T6 AWD. In this instance the addition of AWD is an added safety feature for towing.

The key to towing with sedans is to ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most sedans can tow and the only limitation is like all vehicles, the towing capacity and tow ball weight.

If you choose to tow with a front wheel drive vehicle you should know that they are more affected by the weight distribution of the trailer than rear wheeled vehicles although all vehicles are affected by poor trailer loading.

When choosing what type of transmission the old school theory is that manual is the way to go to tow. The arguments can go back and forward but ultimately it’s up to the preference of the driver.

However if you are venturing off the roads into the vast beauty Australia has to offer or if you have a heavy trailer to tow, then a 4WD is definitely the way to go. While we certainly aren’t suggesting that a big 4WD is essential for towing, sometimes there just aren’t many other suitable options.

Amongst the normal cars Australia has been traditionally the domain of the big V8 rear wheel drive vehicles from Holden and Ford as the choice for sedan tow vehicles. They have plenty of power and adequate towing capacity.

There are some factors that should be considered though. In smaller capacity vehicles the manual transmissions have less power loss.

The flip side is that manuals can show increased wear on the clutch from towing.

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Often if you are towing heavy loads with an automatic it is advisable to fit a transmission cooler as a precaution against transmission overheating. Remember that heavy-duty 4WD vehicles are not immune to transmission overheating as well.

You will find that many manufacturers have a higher towing rating on their automatic versions of their vehicles. Personally I think that automatics are easier and more flexible to drive and place less stress on the driver.

The difference in fuel consumption between manual and automatic transmissions really doesn’t make that much of a difference so basing your decisions on that would prove to be false economy.

The next point to consider in choosing a vehicle is the choice of fuel to run the engine. This is probably the most important decision you need to make as it has multiple facets such as economy, servicing costs, initial purchase costs etc Diesel engines are more economical especially when towing heavy loads. The torque characteristics of a diesel motor where the power comes much lower in the rev band are ideal.

However they are often a little more expensive to maintain and service.

In addition to this for reasons that no manufacturer has been able to explain satisfactorily they are sometimes more expensive for the same model, even up to $10,000 in the case of a Toyota Landcruiser.

If you are travelling the outback there are places where the only fuel available is diesel. This is more important than the fuel savings and is a key factor in deciding what to buy.

Petrol motors will on average use significantly more fuel to tow, often up to 30% more and with some of the larger petrol 4WDs the fuel usage when towing can be staggering. However they can be less costly to service and to buy.

A third option is to convert either to an LPG powered vehicle. They have been very successful in reducing fuel usage, even when not towing and LPG is available fairly widely. Often there is little difference in performance on the road.

However it is not for everyone, as installing an LPG tank reduces internal storage areas and necessitates more fuss when filling up, not to mention the increased costs of installation. The Federal Government has offered a rebate for LPG installation but there is a question mark over its future.

Given the increasing availability of Hybrid cars this may be an option in the future. The electric motor has instantaneous torque, which is ideal for towing, however they tend to be heavier and have atrocious towing capacities. This is one to avoid for a while.

Other key factors when deciding are: how often do you use the car to tow and over what distances? How heavy is the load? What type of driving do you like normally as petrol and diesels have very different driving characteristics?

If you choose a smaller motor for economy it may prove to be the exact opposite. Small motors often use more fuel when towing as they have less torque and therefore work harder in each gear.

No matter what type of vehicle you choose one thing will be constant.

Towing, especially for prolonged periods, is hard on the tow vehicle.

This will lead to increased service costs and often a reduced time between services. Regular servicing is more important than usual and most manufacturers regard prolonged towing as heavy usage and refer to this in their service books.

In addition to service costs, increased wear and tear on items such as transmission, brake pads, tyres, suspension etc are all part of the equation.

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If you’re buying a second hand vehicle with a tow bar attached check that it’s not just ok for trips to the local tip. You will need to make sure that the tow bar and tow ball are suitable for what you intend towing.

Be sure to install a hitch that is rated for more than you intend to tow. Also if you have a monocoque body vehicle you will have to ensure that the hitch is one that distributes the load across the body not just at the rear.

Lastly you may need to beef up the suspension for towing. This may be anything from installing a set of polyair bags to a complete suspension upgrade. A good weight distribution hitch will certainly help here, but make sure that your shocks and springs are in good condition. Self-levelling suspension isn’t always the answer either as some systems become confused with heavy loads attached.

Top 12 Hints: 1 The best tow vehicle is the one that fits the drivers’ needs.

2 Money spent to set up the tow vehicle properly is money wisely invested.

3 Never exceed the vehicles CVM (combined vehicle mass).

4 Do not exceed the tow ball weight and towing capacity of the tow vehicle.

5 Weight distribution hitches DO NOT reduce tow ball weight.

6 Ideally the vehicle is as heavy as or heavier than the load it is carrying.

7 No matter what type of engine maximum torque is better low in the rev range.

8 You will almost definitely need suspension help to tow.

9 You will need additional brakes for all but the smallest camper trailer.

10 You will probably need extra transmission cooling if it’s an automatic.

11 You will use heaps of fuel, just less in a diesel.

12 You will place extra strain on the vehicle so have it serviced more regularly.

OzRoamer Directory

Active Campers FT1950 Model FT 1950 Model Price $24,850 Sleeps 4 Tare 460kg Awning Rear and Side Dimensions to fit ute back or tray back Construction seamless fiberglass skin & insulated roof Kitchen Internal Roof Hard Legs Standard Water Capacity 70 Litres Warranty 1 year www.activecampers.com.au

The FT 1950 is the most popular slide on campers that active campers produces, designed for dual and extra cab vehicles it gives your needs - holiday, work and family without having to tow anything.

The compact low profile design gives excellent fuel consumption and the ability to drive the narrow bush tracks. The tough lightweight construction makes it a true 4WD camper and will go anywhere from the deserts to the beach and up the mountains. There is nowhere this camper won’t go.

Simplicity is the feature of setting up which only takes a few seconds and is a one person operation. Once the solid insulated roof is opened up the spacious interior is revealed. Inside there is seating and sleeping for four, 2 adults get a huge queen bed and the dining table folds down for second double bed for the kids. Inside you also find your kitchen with fridge, stove, sink, water tanks and storage cupboards.

Active campers has been producing quality Australian made slide on campers for over ten years, with features

Easy Cameron Companion Model Easy Cameron Companion Model Price From $16,000 Sleeps 4 plus Tare 480kg Awning Rear Dimensions Suitable for Single Cab and Dual Cab Vehicles Construction Gal steel chassis, 12gsm Australian ctanvas Kitchen Slide-out Stainless steel Roof Easy Framed Cover Awning Standard Legs Standard Water Capacity 70L – 130L Warranty 12 months plus www.cameroncampers.com.au

The Companion Slide On camper is made for convenience. You don’t have to worry about towing as everything’s already strapped on your ute’s back or it gives you the flexibility to tow. Our patented designed tent is an easy one-person – 30 second setup that doesn’t require any pegs, poles or guy ropes. The tent has a soft floor, yet manages to be rigid, and secures quickly and easily like a hard-floor camper.

The Companion Slide-On features four supporting jack legs for easy tray-top removal and for quick stops; a 30L drawer fridge and a drop-down kitchen with cooker can be accessed in seconds. Other features include an electric water pump, 12V wiring to connect to your vehicle’s 12V system, a low queen sized accessible bed with no climbing over your partner, huge storage space and quick annexe or awning setup ensures all is in place with minimal hassle. To allow additional carrying ability for single cab utes, a roof rack comes as standard.

Because Cameron makes everything to order, the slide-on can be designed for all trayback utes and

Candy Canvas Model Carry Me Camper “Walk- In” Model Price $20250 Sleeps 2 Tare 520kg Awning Rear awning optional What does it Fit Most single and extra cab traytop utilities Construction Zinc annealed steel Kitchen Pantry standard Roof 12 ounce Australian made canvas Legs 1200kg rated Water Capacity 80litres Warranty 5 year on canvas and 2year on the Camper www.candycanvas.com.au 22

Slide on camper

that have come from customer input and personnel experience, we use and test our campers whenever possible .

Active campers have other models to suit most ute’s from single cab, extra cab and dual cab.

Further info at www.activecampers.com.au or phone our friendly staff on 02 6654 8828

Slide On Camper

for those with a styleside ute.

Built by a company that has been producing its own Australian made campers for 30 years, travellers will love the Cameron Companion’s ease of use and clever design, its ability to be customised for specific needs, and the honest quality of the construction and materials used. Contact us on (08) 8186 6666.

Slide on camper The Carry Me Camper Walk-In retains the same style and ethos of the “Carry Me Camper” that has worked successfully since 1996. It is based on the original style storage box and tent with the addition of an entry area at the rear where one can walk up steps to tray height then get into bed from the end of the bed area which contains a standard double 4 inch innerspring mattress.

Under the Walk In area is a storage bay for the jacks and a generous storage area which is all accessible from doors on the right hand side of the camper. The tent has a standard fly over the bed area and folds out to the left covering the kitchen area. All of our standard accessories and optional extras will fit this camper.

A rear tyre carrier is an optional feature and is a valued by customers to carry two spares.

This unit is suitable for single and extra cab utes and can also be adapted to suit Landcruisers, Patrol and Landrover utes which have a higher roof line.

The Candy family have so much confidence and pride in

their product they have annual Cooroborees somewhere in Australia. This allows new innovations to be integrated into their campers and gives customers with a common bond a chance to meet then share stories and travel ideas.

OzRoamer Directory

Explorer Campers Tray Back

Slide on camper

Explorer Campers and Canvas are manufacturers of premium, 100% Australian Made, quality camper trailers, Model Price $17,900 and ute-back campers. Explorer Campers and Canvas are renowned for their personalised service, and honest and Sleeps 4 professional advice.

Weight 300kg We manufacture both tray-back and well-back style slide on Awning Rear and Side campers. Both styles are manufactured from premium quality Dimensions To fit ute back or tray back 3mm marine grade aluminium, and first grade Australian made canvas. Weighing in at just 300kg, our innovative and Construction 3mm marine grade lightweight design allows for easy slide-on/slide-off from any aluminium Two pack finish dual cab or xtra cab tray back or well back on the market.

Kitchen Standard The campers come standard with a water tank, 12V package, LED lighting, steel kitchen, fridge slide, and 8ft awning.

Roof Canvas Beyond these inclusions there is an endless list of optional Legs Standard extras should you be looking for something a little different, such as zip on bedroom walls and floor, annexe, rear kitchen Water Capacity 53 Litres awning annexe, and further 12V/240V accessories.

Warranty 24 month on tent, The campers can slide off and free-stand on adjustable legs 12 month on camper unit to allow for use of your vehicle easily and hassle free. A 24

Model Explorer Tray Back Slide-On

www.explorercampers.com.au

GT Campers Model GT Toyota Hilux conversion Model Price $13,990 (dual-cab mini-camper $7,990) on your Toyota Sleeps 2 Weight N/A Awning Rear wing Dimensions To fit ute back Construction Fibreglass and aluminium Kitchen Standard Drifta slide out Roof Canvas Legs N/A Water Capacity 70 Litres Warranty 2 years back-to-base www.gtcampers.com.au

Slide on camper The GT Campers converted Toyota Hilux is Australia’s most capable and affordable outback/bush tourer. This low-profile, light and nimble vehicle and doesn’t restrict you in bushy or arduous terrain. When you arrive, set-up takes just five minutes and the exclusive GT Campers Bikini awning is self-supporting. It’s also the ideal tow car for fishing boats or dirt bikes and does double duty as a working vehicle during the week.

Each GT Camper includes a slide-out kitchen with tap, wash-up basin and three-burner stove, 70L water tank, exclusive GT Campers strut-assisted lift-up Hard Deck and Bikini awning, GT Power Poles, pressurised dust resistance package, LED kitchen light, double-sized fold-over tent with storm fly/tropical roof, aluminium fridge cabinet with fridge slide, mesh equipment rack, lockable pannier storage, opentopped storage bin, in-tub tie-down rings, carpet, 3x12V power sockets, under-bonnet dual battery system and in-cab storage pockets. The GT Campers Hilux conversion includes installing a brand new vehicle tub to your presentmodel Hilux Single Cab (Work Mate or SR).

Travelander Evron DC1 Model Evron DC1 - Dual Cab Tray Back Camper Model Price From $20,000 Sleeps 4 Tare TBA Awning Rear Dimensions To fit Dual Cab tray back Construction Fiberglass outer shell Kitchen Slide out rear Roof Canvas Legs Standard manual wind down Water Capacity 120 Litres Warranty 12 months www.travelander.com.au

month warranty on the tent section and 12 month warranty on the camper unit is also included.

When dealing with Explorer Campers and Canvas, you talk to the guys who build your camper from start to finish with no pushy sales people! Come and visit our factory/ showroom and talk to the guys who build your camper from start to finish.

GT Campers is an innovative company and its tough, no-nonsense camper trailer and Toyota Hilux conversions are the result of three years of development by a team intimate with vehicle design and outback travel. Our exclusively engineered, Australian-made components have been tested over thousands of kilometres of Aussie conditions. Each GT Camper is built to order. Booking and deposit required. Prices are ex-Newcastle, NSW.

Slide on camper

The Evron DC1 - Dual Cab Tray Back Camper is designed for a family of three or more to create as much living and storage space for the average family when camping. Designed as a hard floor, (left hand) side folding camper, you can pull off on the side of the road and prepare your lunch without having to open the camper.

Our dual cab camper is roomy inside but compact when closed. Even though it is the entry level it still features the exclusive automatic set-up aided by a remote control key ring. Packing up is just as quick and easy you don’t have to push the weight of the hard-floor camper lid closed; the camper does it for you.

The sleeping quarters is covered by canvas and includes a queen bed with bed head storage and the hard floor area which also allows for further bedding, or internal table and chairs. The tropical roof prevents dew dripping on you and most important, it reduces the amount of heat from the sun. The kitchen sun shade protects you from

the sun if you are stopping and want to sit under the kitchen area whilst eating and resting.

Perfect for those who want something modern, compact, lightweight and cheaper on fuel (no towing). It’s so easy to set-up, as there is no back breaking exercise of opening and closing the camper.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

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OzRoamer Directory

Travelander Evron DC2 Model Evron DC2 - Premium Dual Cab Tray Back Camper Model Price From $34,900 Sleeps 4 Tare TBA Awning Rear Dimensions To fit Dual Cab tray back Construction Fiberglass outer shell Kitchen Slide out rear Roof Canvas Legs Standard manual wind down Water Capacity 120 Litres Warranty 12 months www.travelander.com.au

The Evron DC2 - Dual Cab Tray Back Camper is the premium version of the Evron DC1. This model is fitted with a 12 volt electrical system, with 2 x 240 volt power plug outlets for your convenience. If you are not set-up at a powered caravan site, then you can use the generator to power this up instead. Solar panels can also be purchased, however this camper is fitted with a battery charger and inverter, along with 2 x 120 amp hour batteries, which are charged as you are driving. If you are standing still the batteries will generally last for up to 4 days, without the aid of a generator or solar panel.

The canvas provided for the tent, annex roof and walls is made from a premier outdoor fabric which has been Dynaproofed to prevent sun penetration. The area that the canvas covers is to the sleeping quarters, which includes a queen bed and the hard floor area which also allows for further bedding, or internal table and chairs.

This particular area includes a tropical roof cover, which prevents dew from building up and dripping on you from

Travelander Evron SC1 The Evron SC1 - Single Cab Tray Back Camper is built for off road travel and will fit on the back of all single cab ute trays. Designed as a hard floor, (left hand) side Model Price From $20,300 folding camper, you can pull off on the side of the road and prepare your lunch without having to open up your Sleeps 4 camper to access an internal kitchen. You can also open Tare 400Kg the hard floor sleeping quarters of the camper, anywhere and have a rest.

Awning Rear Dimensions To fit Single Cab tray back This particular tray back camper model, is not only for the (budget conscious), but for those who already have Construction Fiberglass outer shell a great range of camping gear at home. This is fantastic, as your own camping gear can be used instead of Kitchen Slide out rear (optional) purchasing the other model; which already has every Roof Canvas necessary accessory on board. You can however, Legs Standard manual wind down purchase a combination sink and stove, to create a kitchen to the rear of the camper and other options.

Water Capacity 120 Litres This model is roomy inside but compact when closed.

Warranty 1 year Even though it is considered our budget camper it still www.travelander.com.au features the exclusive automatic set-up aided by a remote

Slide on camper

inside the camper and most important, it reduces the amount of heat from the sun.

This model like the others features an exclusive automatic set-up aided by a remote control key ring; which is a real treat for ease of setting up camp.

Slide on camper

Model Evron SC1 - Single Cab Tray Back Camper

Travelander Evron SC2 The Evron SC2 - Single Cab Tray Back Camper (Premium Model) is built for off-road travel and will fit on the back of all single cab ute trays. Designed as a hard Model Price From $35,200 floor, (left hand) side folding camper, you can pull off on the side of the road and prepare your lunch without Sleeps 4 having to access an internal kitchen. You can also open Tare 670Kg the hard floor sleeping quarters of the camper, anywhere and have a rest.

Awning Rear Dimensions To fit Single Cab tray back Fitted full of accessories, this particular tray back camper, has been designed so that you can pack up Construction Fiberglass outer shell and go anywhere for a weekend getaway or a long awaited travel holiday.

Kitchen Slide out rear It has a 12 volt electrical system, with the allocation of Roof Canvas two x 240 volt power plug outlets for your convenience; Legs Standard manual wind down if running off the 240 volt power inlet. If you are not set-up at a powered caravan site, then you can use the Water Capacity 120 Litres generator to power this up instead.

Warranty 12 months This camper is fitted with a battery charger and inverter www.travelander.com.au which are located inside the camper, along with two 120

control key ring; which is a real treat for ease of setting up camp.

To sum it all up, the tray back campers are perfect for those who want something modern, compact, lightweight and cheaper on fuel (no towing) and easy to set up.

Slide on camper

Model Evron SC2 - Single Cab Tray Back Camper

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amp hour batteries. These are charged as you are driving along by the aid of an Anderson plug which you will need to fit to your vehicle.

With ample storage and the provision of electrical and gas appliances you will be well equipped for a fantastic holiday getaway.

OzRoamer Directory

Tray Trek Tailgater Model Tailgater models Model Price From $22,950 Sleeps 2 Tare 350 - 450kg depending on model ATM Ball weight N/A Coupling N/A Suspension N/A Brakes N/A Wheels/Tyres N/A Water Capacity 90 litres Warranty 12 months www.tray-tekcampers.com

Slide on camper

Tray-Tek Campers are totally Australian designed and built.

The Tailgater model slide-on Tray-Tek Camper has been designed to meet the needs of campers in all weather.

The camper has an inside kitchen. A hard top, insulated roof is over the bed (no sleeping under canvas). All canvas is heavy duty and all windows/door have flyscreens.

Built tough. built strong, built light (all alloy construction), built smart. The unique design of a drop-down tailgate (hence the name Tailgater) and a full queen size bed, in all models, that automatically lifts up into the roof cavity, ensures a camper that provides a much larger and more useable space than our competitors.

A table and chair features upstairs and the heavy duty canvas have flyscreened windows and door. A hard roof is above the bed.

All models are adaptable to suit any tray size or can be custom-built to suit your needs.

The heavy-duty jacks are integrated into the design and also act as tie-down points to attach the camper to your tray.

Trayon Single/Extra-cab 1830 Model Trayon Single/Extra-cab 1830 Model Price $29,500 Sleeps 3 inside Tare 390KG Awning Yes – every time you open a Trayon What does it fit 4x4 Single or Extra cab utes Construction Aluminium Kitchen Internal and External Roof 14 oz Australian made canvas Legs Removable - mechanical Water Capacity 110L Warranty 10 years structural www.trayon.com

Slide On Camper

Trayon Campers have been making slide-on campers for 18 years and with over 780 campers already sold you can be assured that it is a reliable and well thought of camper. With a reputation for being light-weight (390KG) and extremely tuff, the Trayon camper range is what you are looking for in a slide-on camper. The single-cab Trayon can fit also on extra-cab utes as it is only 2.2m long. There are also larger single-cab models for larger tray sizes (1830, 1980, 2100 and trailer – mount models). With a Trayon you can cook inside or outside and if the weather has turned, you can hide with all the comforts inside the camper. To open the camper takes only 3 minutes and to remove it from the vehicle to use it for camping while free-standing on its own legs is a process taking only 7 minutes (online videos on our website) Trayon campers has the largest warranty system in the Caravanning and Camping industry with a 10 year structural warranty on all our slide-on camper models giving our customers the assurance of a good quality and PROUDLY Australian made product that is value for money and reliable in any

Trayon Dual-cab Model Trayon Dual-cab Model Price $29,500 Sleeps 4-5 inside Tare 370KG Awning Yes What does it fit 4x4 Dual- cab utes Construction Aluminium Kitchen Internal and External Roof 14 oz Australian made canvas Legs Removable - mechanical Water Capacity 110L Warranty 10 years structural www.trayon.com

LED lights, deep cycle battery, 90 litre water tank, side awning and battery indicator, are just some of the standard features of all Tray-Tek Campers. There is a choice of three models in our range, so no matter what your requirements Tray-Tek Campers have a model to suit your needs.

terrain. With 3 grades to choose from in all our camper models (Standard – Deluxe - Diesel Deluxe) there is sure to be a Trayon to suit you.

Slide On Camper

Trayon Campers have been making slide-on campers for 18 years and with over 780 campers already sold you can be assured that it is a reliable and well thought of camper.

With a reputation for being light-weight (370kg) and extremely tuff, the Trayon camper range is what you are looking for in a slide-on camper. The Dual-cab Trayon can sleep 4 - 5 inside, this is made possible with the aid of the internal lounge table that drops down and makes another bed and the kitchenette converting into a single bed. With a Trayon you can cook inside or outside and if the weather has turned, you can hide with all the comforts inside the camper. To open the camper takes only 3 minutes and to remove it from the vehicle to use it for camping while free-standing on its own legs is a process taking only 7 minutes (online videos on our website) Trayon campers has the largest warranty system in the Caravanning and Camping industry with a 10 year structural warranty on all our slide-on camper models giving our customers the assurance of a good quality and PROUDLY Australian made product that is value for money and reliable in any

terrain. With 3 grades to choose from in all our camper models (Standard – Deluxe - Diesel Deluxe) there is sure to be a Trayon to suit you.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

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OzRoamer Directory

Wedgetail Campers Model Wedgetail Model Price From $38,879 Sleeps 2 Tare From 420 kg to 650 kg Awning 4 – over stairs, kitchen, lounge and annex What does it fit Single& Extra Cab Construction Aluminium and composite roof Kitchen Inside/outside 2 way kitchen Roof Hard (closed) Legs Rated to 6000kg with cross bracing Water Capacity 90 or 180 litre Warranty 5 years www.wedgetailcampers.com.au

Slide On Camper

The Wedgetail is the result of many years of camping experience in the Australian bush and a lot of research and development. It is Australian made and manufactured using high quality materials and local skills. This camper is very tough and completely at home in the outback – it’s favourite playground! A low profile and light-weight aluminium construction combined with optimised centre of gravity makes your journey an easy ride while minimising fuel consumption. Among many features this luxurious slide-on has a spacious interior that remains dust free in adverse conditions. Access is via stairs with hand rail support and no ladders. The Wedgetail has an inner spring queen sized bed that remains made up. Its mind blowing versatility originates from the inside/outside access to food pantry, stove, fridge, power points, clothes storage, security box and ensuite shower and toilet. Once sitting inside you can relax and enjoy a panoramic view of your surroundings. The Wedgetail easily keeps you warm in freezing conditions with its powerful heater. It provides brilliant airflow on hot summer nights to allow a good

nights sleep. The fine mesh on all windows and the door keeps the bugs away and the interior remains dry in heavy rain.

So if you are after a camper that is packed full of innovation and will go anywhere in comfort this is it!

Contact Wedgetail Campers today for a friendly chat.

Skamper Kamper Ranger Off Road4X4 Soft Floor Hard Floor Model Ranger Off Road 4 x 4 Model Price $5,999 Sleeps 6 Tare 700 Kg ATM 1400 Kg Ball weight 65 Kg Coupling 360 degrees Poly Suspension 7 Leaf eye to eye double rebound with shocks Brakes 10” Electric + handbrake Wheels/Tyres New 15” Sunraysia style LandCruiser pattern Water Capacity 70 Litres in stainless steel Warranty 12 months www.skamper.com.au

What sets Skamper Kampers apart from the competition is our price. We undoubtedly have the most feature rich camper you can get at this price point.

The Ranger has a full continuous chassis that is hot dipped galvanised. Springs are 7 leaf with suspension and the hangers are doubly re-enforced. The body is powder coated white and is complete with Stainless Steel Kitchen, Gas & Jerry holders, large Toolbox, stoneguard, new wheels and tyres including spare, electric brakes, handbrake, 360 coupling and inner-spring mattress.

The 9’ Kwik touring tent is gas assisted 15oz Canvas with 25mm poles.

Complete with tropical roof, annex and all walls and floors. A 4 x 4 Camper at a sensible price of just $6,000 + ORC complete with options for the whole family. An on-road and semi-off road model are also available.

Easy Cameron Unlimited Model Easy Cameron Unlimited Model Price From $15,000 Sleeps 5 plus Tare 600kg ATM 1850kg Ball Weight 80kg Coupling TREG Poly Block Hitch Suspension 9 leaf rebounded reinforced shackle Brakes Mechanical 12” Disc Wheels/Tyres 15” 31/10.5LT upgrades available Water Capacity 60L manual / electric upgrades available Warranty 12 months plus www.cameroncampers.com.au

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Some of the benefits of a Skamper Kamper are: easily storable when not used, can be towed by most cars, easy to setup and fun, loads of storage in the trailer for all your gear, safe and easy to tow, can sleep the whole family and friends, an elevated Queen bed thats safe and dry, fantastic ventilation and views, in a modern and attractive package.

Visit us on www.skamper.com.au

Soft floor camper trailer

The well-equipped Easy Cameron Unlimited is designed to make camping Easy. Our patented designed tent is an easy one-person – 30 second setup that doesn’t require any pegs, poles or guy ropes. The tent has a soft floor, yet manages to be rigid, and secures quickly and easily like a hard-floor camper. For quick stops; a dual purpose road cover comes off quickly and doubles up as an awning and slide-out kitchen with tailgate seating allows for a quick stop without erecting the tent. Other features includes a queen sized bed with no climbing over your partner, 512gsm Australian canvas, toolbox, peg box, gas cylinders, Jerry cans, spare wheel, 12V electrical system , protected 59L water tank, huge storage space and quick annexe or awning setup.

The Unlimited is well suited to a bush expedition and is able to venture into the rough stuff. Built on a DuraGal chassis, the suspension is complemented by capable 12in disc brakes and Treg coupling with excellent ground clearance makes it an impressive trailer unit.

For even more room, you can specify a room extension for

the main tent; ideal for groups or large families.

Built by a company that has been producing its own Australian made campers for 30 years, travellers will love the Easy Cameron Unlimited ease of use and clever design, its ability to be customised for specific needs, and the honest quality of the construction and materials used.

Contact us on (08) 8186 6666.

OzRoamer Directory

Complete Campsite Model Jabiru Off Road Camper Trailer Model Price $26,950 Sleeps Up to 4 Tare 900kg ATM 1650kg Ball weight 80kg Coupling DO 35 Off Road Suspension 8 leaf eye to eye outback ‘rebound’ suspension Brakes 10” electric off-road brakes Wheels/Tyres 6 stud 15” steel rims 235/75/R15 off-road tyres Warranty 3 years trailer and tent www.completecampsite.com.au

Back in the early 90s, Complete Campsite launched a range of soft-floor camper trailers that could criss-cross the Australian landscape in comfort, ease and safety.

There are three models in our range of soft floor camper trailers – the Jabiru, the Uluru and the Kakadu. And all are available with the added features of an ‘XT’ version.

The beauty of this range is versatility – go where you want, how you want, with whoever you want. If you are a family and need space, then these trailers allow you to quickly add extensions for bedrooms, showers, toilets, dining areas - you name it. And gas struts have been fitted to the internal frame to make it easy for one person to put up and pack down. If you’re concerned about comfort, then you’ll be glad of the Queen size, inner sprung domestic mattress with stairs that give access without clambering over a sleeping partner.

Lovers of fine food can choose from two gourmet kitchens both of which contain ample and easily accessible storage space. And if you want to take a quad

Elite Campers Model Elite Sprinter series Model Price From $6990.00 Sleeps 2 Tare 180kg ATM 300kg Ball weight Up to 30kg Coupling Std 50 mm ball or 360 degree for motorcycle Suspension 3 leaf spring Brakes optional hydraulic override Wheels/Tyres 12 in alloy 165/70/12 tyres Water Capacity N/A Warranty 12 months trailer & tent www.eliteproducts.com.au

Model Price $5,865.00 Sleeps up to 5 Tare 400kg ATM 750kg Ball weight 40kg Coupling 50mm Ball Suspension Leaf Spring Brakes Not Required Wheels/Tyres 3 off 185x14 light commercial Warranty 1 year trailer & 1 year tent www.emucampers.com.au

bike, jet-ski, fishing gear or push bikes, you’ll find we can make room for all of your toys.

These soft floors are designed and built to the STG standards with the best Australian components and can be optioned with a wide range of accessories to suit your needs and your budget.

Soft floor camper trailer Elite Products has been designing and manufacturing Elite camper trailers for motorcycles and small cars for over ten years. Our product is dual purpose, easy to store, lightweight but designed strong and can easily be positioned by one person.

They are simple to erect and pack up with a queen bed and plenty of storage. Options include a 12 volt battery system, solar system and front storage pod to accommodate a fridge or an esky.

The annex system can be added to create more space and extra annexes can easily be attached to create extra rooms. The mesh wall system for use in the tropics will allow maximum airflow and maximum protection from insects. All windows in the tent have internal and external window flaps and insect proof mesh.

Our camper trailers can easily be converted to a cargo trailer by removing the camper body and installing the optional cargo lid. Other features are an all-aluminium body with a full hot dipped galvanized chassis, 12 inch

Emu Camper Trailers Model Emu Semi Off Road Camper Trailer

Soft floor camper trailer

mag wheels with radial tyres and easy to see LED tail and number plate lights.

Why not hire and try before you buy. A four day weekend package for only $180.00 and if you decide to buy within three months we refund you $100.00. Call us on 1300 734700 and mention this article to get your special deal.

Soft floor camper trailer

Emu Camper Trailers, an Australian owned family business with over 40 years experience, announces the release of three Queensland designed 100% Canvas Trailer Tents.

A new 15ft. Quick Erect Tourer style, and the new 15ft. Quick Erect Explorer Straight Wall Tent. Both tents, including the inbuilt Tropical Roof, can be erected in less than 2 minutes.

We also have a new Quick Erect Family 18ft. Tent with the main room being erected in less than 4 minutes. All our camper tents are made from quality 15oz. (440gsm) canvas and include these special features: 25mm carbon steel poles, internal roof height of 2600mm designed to enable campers to enjoy our hot and rainy summers, front and rear doors, lots of windows, internal and external window covers, innerspring mattress and aluminium ladder and annex roof, walls and floor.

Our hot dipped galvanised trailers are made by our manufacturing company, Trailer Guys. We stock 4 styles – On Road, Semi-off Road, Off Road and Extreme 4x4.

These trailers feature longer draw bars, large axles, 510mm sides, upright wheel carrier and swing out tailgates fitted with kitchens.

Emu Camper Trailers specialise in camper trailers and tents built to go the distance, anywhere. We have a reputation for attention to detail and for making your holiday ultra comfortable and hassle free for you and your family.

Built “tough as” for the tough Australian conditions, our camper trailers and tents come with a range of ‘included’ features that many other companies charge as extras.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

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OzRoamer Directory

Explorer Campers Lawson Model Lawson off Road Model Price $15,500 Sleeps Up to 6 Tare 820kg ATM 1500kg Ball weight 70kg Coupling Trigg Suspension Alko Outback Rebound Shackle Brakes Alko off-rd electric drum Wheels/Tyres 6 Stud 31x10.5/R15 Water Capacity 70 Litre Tank 80 Litres of Jerry Cans Warranty 24mth tent, 12mth camper www.explorercampers.com.au

Explorer Campers and Canvas are manufacturers of premium, 100% Australian made, premium quality camper trailers, and ute-back campers. Explorer Campers and Canvas are renowned for their personalised service, and honest and professional advice.

We offer a range of camper trailers to suit any budget, including the Blaxland On-Road (starting from $9,990), the Flinders Light Off-Road (starting from $11,990), the Lawson full Off-Road (starting from $15,500), and the Wentworth Supreme Walkup (starting from $29,990).

All our trailers are made from duragal steel and zincanneal sides. We oven bake powder coat our trailers for a premium finish. All Explorer camper trailers come standard with electric brakes, brand new wheels and tyres, as well as jerry can and gas bottle holders.

We use 100% Australian made Wax Converters Textiles Dynaproofed canvas. We list a range of optional extras in our brochures, as we recognise that our many customers have varying needs. The entire camper is sewn right here in our factory, and therefore you may customise your

Southern Cross Bushmate Model Bushmate Model Price From $17,000 Sleeps 2-8 adults Tare 650kg ATM 2000kg Ball weight 95 kg Coupling Cruise Master DO 35 Hitchmaster Suspension Vehicle Components Independent Wishbone Brakes 12” Electric Brakes Wheels/Tyres Brand New 31/10.5/R15 General Grabbers Water Capacity 85 litres Warranty 2yrs on trailer, 5yrs manufacturers warranty on canvas

Soft floor camper trailer

camper to suit your needs.

When dealing with Explorer Campers and Canvas, you talk to the guys who build your camper from start to finish with no pushy sales people! Come and visit our factory/ showroom and talk to the guys who build your camper from start to finish. Call us on 02 4322 8870 for your next adventure.

Soft floor camper trailer

Southern Cross Campers have been manufacturing camper trailers for over 30 years, and are highly regarded by travellers across Australia for their practical and tough design attributes born out of the personal experiences of our people and feedback from our customers.

Manufactured using only the highest quality Australian made canvas, fittings and mechanical components by expert trades people we continue to develop products to reliably withstand all weather and terrain conditions encountered across the harsh Australian landscape.

There are four models in our range, however the fact that we can manufacture a camper trailer to your specific needs, means that you can be confident in purchasing a Camper Trailer that is tailored for you and your travel requirements.

With our trailers all 100% made in Australia to the highest standards of quality and workmanship in which we are renowned for, you can have absolute confidence in our trailers providing a home away from home wherever you may choose to go, time and time again.

For further information on any of our trailers, visit our website at www.southerncrosscanvas.com.au or feel free to contact our friendly staff on 03 9729 5056, and they will be more than happy to assist you in your enquiry.

www.southerncrosscanvas.com.au

Sar Major Model Sar Major Camper Trailers Model Price From $5990 Sleeps 2-10 Tare Varies ATM Varies Ball weight Varies Coupling 50mm Ball or Optional Polyblock Coupling Suspension 6 Leaf Eye to Eye or 6 Leaf Eye to Eye Rebound Brakes Optional Hydraulic Override (Included on selected models) Wheels/Tyres 14” Ford 5 Stud or 15” LandCruiser 6 Stud Water Capacity Optional 55 litre Manufacturer’s Warranty 1-2yr on tent top, 2yrs on Trailer www.sarmajor.com.au

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Soft floor camper trailer With Sar Major Camper Trailers you get the best of our experience with 60 years of canvas manufacturing and 14 years of trailer manufacturing.

We have 3 Camper Tent Tops to suit all family budgets and adventures.

Our Aussie Camper is designed and made at our St Marys factory from premium Australian Made materials.

It features a main tent and annexe with optional floor and an optional extra room on the draw bar side.

The Aussie Camper is backed by our Sar Major 2 Year Warranty PLUS the Wax Converters Textiles DynaproofedTM Canvas for Camper Trailers 5 Year Limited Warranty.

Our 9’ and 12’ Campers are designed and imported by Sar Major and are covered by our exclusive 12 Month Warranty. They feature a main tent and fully enclosed annexe. The 12’ Camper also has a mesh sunroom creating a massive 34m2 living space.

You can pair any of our Camper Tent Tops with our Tourer or Trekker Trailers to create your perfect Camper Trailer Package.

Manufactured on site at our St Marys factory and backed by our 2 Year Warranty, Sar Major Trailers are constructed from quality Rigidised Zinc Anneal with Galvanised RHS chassis.

Our Camper Trailers feature a large angled toolbox plus space for jerry cans and gas bottle holders.

By dealing direct with the manufacturer, you can add extra features or custom options to suit your needs.

OzRoamer Directory

XTrail Navigator Model XTrail Navigator Model Price $19,980 Sleeps Up to 6 Tare 950 kg ATM 1400kg Ball weight 80kg Coupling polyblock Suspension Independent coil spring Brakes 10” Electric Wheels/Tyres 31x10.5R15 Water Capacity 108 Litre Warranty 3 years www.XTRAILcampers.com

Soft floor camper trailer

XTRAIL Navigator is a deluxe model with lots of fruits.

Features independent suspension, electric braking with back up mechanical brake, kitchen, stove, 12v and 240v electrical, lockable storages, 108L stainless steel tank, slide out jerry can holder, lightings etc.

Manufactured by XTRAIL campers in Australia with Australian Duragal RHS and Zincanneal sheet, the quality and workmanship are second to none on their price range.

XTRAIL is a professional camper trailer developer, manufacturer and supplier focusing on developing heavy duty, high quality semi-off-road and off-road camper trailers and camper vans, as well as custom design and custom-made trailers of various applications for the Australian market.

XTRAIL specialise in designing and manufacturing not only heavy duty off-road camper trailers, but also manufacture many of our own parts such as independent coil spring suspension systems, Nylon/Polyurethane bushed shackle spring hangers, stabilising legs, coil and leaf springs, electric brake backing plates and drum hubs. In addition to this, XTRAIL also manufacture our own accessories including

stainless steel kitchens, stainless water tank, stainless gull wing box, Pure Sine Wave inverter chargers, switching power systems, the deluxe battery box and camping mats.

All our trailers are designed, fabricated and manufactured in house, in Australia, which allows XTRAIL to have impressive quality control. We are capable of creating both custom made and standard design trailers of various types, not just camper trailers.

POD KWIK KAMPA Hard roof camper trailer Model Price From $6,990 Sleeps 2 Tare From 250kg ATM 750kg Ball weight 25kg Coupling 50mm ball or Tregg swivel hitch Suspension 5 leaf slipper or 5 leaf eye to eye or Independent Brakes Available on request Wheels/Tyres 14-17” or matched Water Capacity Optional 65L Warranty 3yrs tub & lid; 1yr others. www.podtrailer.com

The Pod Kwik Kampa has an easy 60 second set up which is ideal for touring and longer stays.

Leave the double bed set up for a quick getaways. 2m x 1.22m x 75mm supa foam mattress. No pegs required in overnighter set-up mode! Zip-on rear awning walls and optional swing-outside awning. Add side walls to enclose if the weather turns nasty. The Pod Kwik Kampa also has an optional 65 Lt water tank and rack options for bikes, kayaks, boats and surf boards.

Kitchen include: Option 1 - Weber Baby BBQ and clipon sink tub stored in toolbox. Option 2 - Full length slide out rear kitchen with dual burner Smev stove and 4 legs for re-location.

Starting at 250kgs and with its smooth aerodynamic lid, the Kwik Kampa is the most economical to tow camper on the market. Ideal for desert or beach trips or for those who are looking at saving on their fuel bills, or don’t want the annual running costs of large 4WDs. The tent is made of heavy duty 1000 denia polyester which won’t leak or get damp and mouldy when wet!

“Just shake the due off and slam the lid. Done!”

The tubs are roto-moulded in thick recycled polyethylene similar to wheel barrows and water tanks. No Rust or paint chips. Hot dipped Galvanized chassis and LED lights optional.

Winner of Australian Plastic award 2006 ARMA. Designed and made in Australia.

Brix Z Camper Hard roof camper trailer The Brix Z Camper trailer, designed and manufactured in Australia, includes all the best features of recent Model Price From $29,900 improvements and developments in camper trailer design. Over 15,000km of testing over challenging Sleeps 2 to 6 or more Australian terrain and in harsh and varied Australian Tare From 700kg weather conditions have proven the Z Camper to be both ATM 1,500kg comfortable and very reliable.

We offer you a comprehensive 3 year warranty and a 5 Ball weight From 80kg years manufacturer’s warranty on the canvas.

Coupling McHitch or your preferred The Brix Z Camper is as easy to tow on our rough Suspension Independent airbag country roads as on any track or off-road adventure.

The three models in the Z Camper range have the same Brakes 12” off road electric drum chassis, suspension, tub and tent. The different models Wheels/Tyres 16” with 265/75 R16 have varying levels of equipment inclusions and can be All Terrain tyres manufactured/finished to your specific needs. The result Water Capacity 82 litres is that you purchase a trailer that is specified precisely for you and your travel/personal needs.

Warranty 3 yrs on trailer with 5yrs manufacturers, warranty on canvas Z Camper owners enjoy a peace of mind envied by other trailer owners. Both the trailer and the tent are www.brix.com.au built in Sydney using Australian products purchased

Model Brix Z Camper

from Australian suppliers. Your Brix Z Camper provides a comfortable home on all your trips – time and time again.

For more information, please visit our website www.brix.com.au, or contact our friendly team at Brix on 02 9632 2388 and they will be happy to help you with your enquiry.

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OzRoamer Directory

Complete Campsite Exodus 11 Hard roof camper trailer Model Exodus 11 Model Price $69,950 Sleeps 2 Tare 1580kg ATM 2000kg Ball weight 120kg Coupling DO35 off-road coupling Suspension “Cruisemaster” coil independent Brakes 12” electric off-road brakes Wheels/Tyres 6 stud 16” steel rims 265/75/R16 off-road tyres Water Capacity 150L Warranty 3 years www.completecampsite.com.au

There are two models in our new hard top range – the Exodus 11 and the Exodus 14.

We used to call these designs ‘hybrids’ as they are a combination of everything that’s great about an off-road trailer and a luxury on-road caravan. However, both of these hard tops are fully off-road recreational vehicles. No matter how far you go in your 4WD, an Exodus will follow.

Because the fibreglass shell is moulded in a single piece, you can hammer over corrugated roads in the certain knowledge it’s not going to crack at the seams.

There aren’t any! And when you reach your destination, you can open the door and enjoy a dust free home from home. The seals and insulation on these trailers create a protected environment – one that will keep you warm in the cold and cool in the heat.

Mostly, the design advantages of a hard top will appeal to couples who want the luxury of ‘camping-on-the-go’.

There’s no canvas and so set up time is as long as it takes to park. (And given the ease of manoeuvrability, that won’t be long!)

The Exodus 14, given its extra length has the option of an internal kitchen and toilet. We can also fit it out with bunk beds if you are travelling with kids. Both models can be customized to suit your exact needs and if you check the specifications you’ll see they come with a very wide range of optional extras.

Innovan XC Hard roof camper trailer The Innovan XC (off-road) caravan can be fully set up trailer Model Innovan XC Model Price From $34,990 Sleeps 2 Tare 1100 kg ATM 2000 kg Ball weight 110 kg Coupling Hyland (other options available) Suspension Airbags Brakes Discs or drum Wheels/Tyres Optional Water Capacity 240 L Warranty up to 5 years www.innovan.com.au

including the awning in less than 30 seconds.

The solid walls (not canvas) provide a cosy living environment that is insulated against the external heat or cold. The solid lockable door and windows provide safety and security. There is a feeling of spaciousness with up to 3 metres of headroom and, on all sides, there are screened windows that can be opened or locked.

Along with genuine off-road capability you can have access to a hot water system, shower, toilet, inside and outside kitchens, dinette, 85 L fridge/freezer, airconditioning, barbecue internal and external LED lighting and single beds which can be converted into a “Queen bed” and about 5000 L of storage space.

This caravan is built to go anywhere a four-wheeldrive vehicle can go with up to half a metre of ground clearance and a moulded construction which can handle the roughest conditions without disintegrating.

The suspension is exceptional. Ground clearance is adjustable with airbags capable of carrying 2400 kg.

The tare weight is about half the 2000 kg rating of the wheel bearings .

The underside is level to avoid collisions with stones or stumps and the three water tanks are not exposed.

A lightweight aerodynamic shape provides exceptional fuel economy. visit us at www.innovan.com.au

Trak Trailer Tvan Hard roof camper trailer Model Tvan “Model Range” Model Price $34,900 - $49,300 Sleeps 2-4-6 depending on options Tare 840kg - 950kg ATM 1400kg-1500kg Ball weight 70kg - 150kgs Coupling D0-35 Suspension MC2 Asymmetric link Brakes 10” electric drum Wheels/Tyres 16” steel, 60/40 on/off rd tyres or customer spec Water Capacity 70L -140L in tanks + up to 6 Jerry cans 120L Warranty 3 to 5 years www.tracktrailer.com.au

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Track Trailer is an Australian owned and operated company that has been producing high quality off road camper trailers for more than 20 years. Track Trailer’s goal is to continually produce new and innovative products, which has resulted in the Tvan & Topaz becoming the bench mark in the serious off road touring.

Our products have been thoroughly put to the test by the Australian military, air force, press and of course the thousands of Track Trailer owners.

Track Trailer developed its exclusive MC2 Asymmetric Link chassis and suspension system from a “clean sheet of paper” to ensure it not only met the required specification but also took advantage of its potential to minimise the need for service and maximise the ease of controllability of the tow vehicle – trailer combination on rough terrain.

Its distinctive trademark asymmetric links are another example of form following function and will no doubt be imitated, but the innovation that created them and applied them cannot be copied easily nor can the track record be granted to imitators.

Track Trailer will continue to be proudly Australian owned and manufactured. It remains committed to working with its local suppliers to bring the best technology and insightful design to the market and will be particularly focused on the environmental impact of its products, increasingly addressed by enabling more fuel efficient tow vehicles to use them.

OzRoamer Directory

Vista RV Crossover Hard roof camper trailer Vista RV Crossover was developed as an off-road camper trailer Model Vista RV Crossover Model Price From $56,390 Sleeps 2 Tare 1100 kg ATM 1600 kg Ball weight 120 kg Coupling AT 35 Off Road Suspension hybrid independent type asymmetrical lateral links Brakes Electric Wheels/Tyres 16x8 white 6 stud/265-75 R16 tyres Water Capacity 87L plus 80L in jerry cans Warranty 2 years www.vistarv.com.au

capable of going anywhere a four wheel drive could go. As the design evolved it was determined that a camper/caravan would provide the opportunity to enjoy what the Australian Outback and other hard to access destinations have to offer without having to “rough it” under canvas.

The interior is designed to achieve a compact, comfortable environment. Layout and function results from careful ergonomic consideration and includes: Queen size bed , preparation area across rear wall with large bench area, sink, Engel fridge, storage space and cutlery drawer. A wardrobe is included. Storage space includes seat boxes, rear of seat backs and wall mounted shelves and storage pockets. An MP3/CD/ radio is standard.

The chassis is Jig assembled and hot dip galvanized after fabrication. Lateral tube members interface with chassis rails to produce a torsionally rigid system. The suspension is unique with a hybrid, independent type comprising asymmetric lateral links each located by 2 unequal length longitudinal control arms. Large diameter coil springs

maximize performance and are mated with Koni shock absorbers. Roll steer or self steer effect is almost eliminated to achieve the benefits of near zero compliance steer.

The engineering behind crossover enables the camper to track directly behind your 4WD, this is why the length, width, and height are so important. This also allows the Crossover to fit inside a standard size garage.

Ranger Hard Floor Hard floor camper trailer Model Ranger Hard floor Camper Model Price $39,900 all inclusive Sleeps 2 persons Tare 1000kg ATM 1600kg Ball weight 190kg Coupling Tregg Suspension Fully independent coil spring trailing arm suspension Brakes 10” AL-KO off road electric brakes Wheels/Tyres 15 x 8 alloy 6 stud maxxis mud terrains Water Capacity 2 x 65 litres Warranty 1yr parts & 2yr structural www.rangercampers.com.au

Ranger Campers is an Australian owned and operated company which has been operating for over 10 years.

Our latest design - The Ranger Hard Floor Camper, has a light weight aluminium body fitted onto a fully galvanized steel chassis, with heavy duty independent coil spring suspension including 50mm axle. The camper has a massive ground clearance, and includes off road AL-KO electric brakes making it a true off-road camper.

The kitchen located on passenger side includes a 3 burner pull out stove, stainless steel sink, huge front toolbox fitted with fridge slider to suit 60 litre Engel fridge or equivalent, hot & cold water gives you the freedom to pull over on the side of the road and prepare a cup of tea or lunch hassle free.

The campers easy set up means you can be set up in a few minutes and camp on any terrain. It is fitted with a Queen Size inner spring mattress making it very comfortable to sleep on. It also has 2 x 65 litre heavy duty water tanks, Hot Water Unit and shower, internal LED lighting and 12 volt power with 240 volt power inlet

and outlets including safety switch.

The Ranger is also fitted with 85 watt Solar panel and 12 volt charger, full annex including walls, front heavy duty stone guard. This camper is high quality build including many more features.

Camprite TL8s Hard floor camper trailer Model TL8s Model Price $37,600 Sleeps Up to 8 Tare 950kg ATM 1350kg Ball weight 70kg Coupling Tregg Suspension Independent Trailing Arm Brakes 10” off-road electric drum Wheels/Ttyres 3 new 16’’ tyres Water Capacity 95 Litre Warranty 12mth on camper unit www.campritecampers.com.au

The Camprite TL8s is a rugged, thoughtfully designed off road camper trailer that will appeal to families.

Watching the Camprite TL8s being opened, you begin to realise all the normal terminology for describing campersside opening, rear opening etc. fails to adequately describe the TL8s’s unusual cantilever opening system.

To toss down for the night is not a hassle with a Camprite, just park up, leave your vehicle hooked on and within a short amount of time, mum, dad and the kids are up off the ground in comfort, with beds made up. The end result is a comfortable and well separated sleeping arrangement for a family of four, or more with the addition of bunk kits.

No ropes, poles or pegs, just a few simple steps and your accommodation is looking at you.

Another benefit of this design is that everything is up off the ground and without any guy ropes. The TL8s also includes a swing out kitchen on tailgate with removable stove, sink with electric and hand pump, storage area and cutlery bag.

At Camprite, we have designed our campers with the rough, rugged terrain of Australia’s vast outback, beaches and forests in mind. The toughness required, and soft ride that protects your belongings and allows you to get on with driving without being buffeted around, is provided by independent coil suspension, with parallel bearings, twin kings springs and quality shocks.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

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Camper TRailer under $10,000

Camp In Comfort Journeyman Hard floor camper trailer Camp In Comfort has developed the unique, feature packed Journeyman camper exclusively for couples who Model Price $42,750.00 all inclusive truly understand the art of camping. Our internal layout is completely above ground and at the proper working Sleeps 2 in queen bed height, with everything you need close at hand in purpose Tare 1060Kg (wet) built storage. You are always comfortable, secure and ATM 1350Kg protected from the unpredictable conditions you are certain to encounter on long trips in isolated areas. Wind, Ball weight 85Kg – 115 Kg. wet, dust, insects and creatures are all kept at bay whilst Coupling DO 35 / poly block you are tucked away in your journeyman home base.

Suspension Independent trailing arm, All surfaces are high gloss fibreglass, wiped over in air bag suspension minutes. We’ve included as many internal features as possible, without losing sight of size; small but practical.

Brakes 10” electric drum Compact on the road and amazingly spacious and airy Wheels/Tyres 15” or 16” steel rim, under the unique canvas design.

245 70 Cooper tyres Our air bag suspension is a fantastic performer in any Water Capacity 85Lt region, and the reinforced and hot dipped chassis is highly acclaimed by industry experts. This package has Warranty 2 year been designed and modified according to input from www.campincomfort.com.au experienced campers who know what a useful feature is

Model Journeyman

and what is a useless gimmick. No gimmicks here, only features!

The Journeyman is fully upgraded, fully optioned and ready to go touring: all you add is your tucker, clothes and water. Do a detailed comparison and you will see the exceptional value. Visit us at www.campincomfort.com.au

GT Campers Hard floor camper trailer The GT Camper was developed as a light, nimble, durable, attractive and – most important of all – fast-set-up trailer for Sleeps 2 adventurers who travel to a new location every day. Set-up and pack-up takes one person just five minutes. The GT Tare 660/700kg Camper’s compact, self-supporting, peg-free design means ATM 1100kg you can camp on any terrain, from solid rock to rolling sand, without searching for a large flat area.

Ball weight 35kg (empty) Every GT Camper trailer features a galvanized chassis, Coupling Hyland off-road slide-out kitchen with tap, wash-up basin and three-burner Suspension Outback-spec leaf stove, 85L water tank, exclusive strut-assisted lift-up GT 45mm solid axle Campers Hard Deck and Bikini awning, double-sized flipBrake Override drums with handbrake over tent, aluminium fridge cabinet with fridge slide, mesh equipment rack, in-tub tie-down rings and carpet, LED Wheesl/tyres 16x7” six-stud steel kitchen light and 3x12V sockets. The tent doesn’t require with 215 section tyres ropes or pegs and the exclusive self-supporting GT Bikini Water capacity 85 litres awning sets up in seconds for shade during track-side lunch breaks. The Off-Road model features extra equipment * Warranty 2yrs back to base such as 16x7-inch off-road wheels and tyres; heavy-duty www.gtcampers.com.au suspension; pressure-fed dust exclusion system and gravel protection; pannier storage boxes and an off-road coupling.

Price $17,500 - $19,990

The GT Campers tough, no-nonsense camper trailer and Toyota Hilux conversions are the result of three years of development by a team intimate with vehicle design and outback travel. Our exclusively engineered, Australianmade components have been tested over thousands of kilometres of Aussie conditions. Each GT Camper is built to order. Booking and deposit required. Prices are exNewcastle, NSW.

ModCon Campers Imperial HFD Hard floor camper trailer Model ModCon Campers Imperial HFD Model Price $44,950.00 Sleeps 4 Tare 1260kg ATM 1600kg Ball weight 100kg Coupling Hyland Suspension Cruisemaster independent Brakes Electric Wheels/Tyres Alloy 16/8 265/75R16 Water Capacity 120L Warranty 2yrs www.modcon.com.au

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ModCon Camper’s Range of Forward Folding Hard floor campers has changed the expectations of camper trailer owners.

ModCon campers are serious off road camper trailers with an additional bed suitable for two children which quickly converts to a settee. With the ability to camp on very uneven land, the range of ModCon campers allows campers to set up with nothing on the ground, so it can be set up on rocky , wet, sandy, sloping and muddy surfaces without hassle.

The design gives huge amounts of storage, plus internal draws and lockers.

ModCon Campers manufactures four different models with differing levels of features. The Imperial HF, Imperial HF Anniversary, Imperial HFD and the Elysium HF. The Imperial HFD Forward folding hard floor camper has amazing simplicity together with outstanding versatility. A camper with huge storage, convenient draws, great comfort (lounge/bed) as well as true off road ability. Set up camp in terrain where our competitor’s can only dream about.

Other standard features on the Imperial HFD include,

Webasto diesel hot water and heating system, 110lt fridge, pantry slide, convenient swing around kitchen, ensuite with hot and cold water, double spare wheel carrier, Xantrex smart charger, water meter, baintech battery monitor, 232amp batteries, 240 volt inlet and 3 double outlets. 120 litre water tank, shower mixer, additional alloy storage on drawbar, hinged stoneguard, clothes draw inside camper, security locker inside camper and Touring Awning.

Camper TRailer under $10,000

Travelander GEO Convert 1 Hard floor camper trailer Model GEO Convert 1 Model Price $33,800 Sleeps Up to 6 Tare 870kg ATM TBA Ball weight TBA Coupling All Terrain Suspension Independent Coil Brakes 10” off-road electric drum Wheels/Tyres Landcruiser Water Capacity 120 Litres Warranty 1 year www.travelander.com.au

GEO Convert 1 - Hard Floor Off Road Camper Trailer (Standard Model). These true off-road camper trailers have a robust and rugged chassis, which is constructed with 150 x 50mm beams, manufactured with lugs, scrub bars and other anchor points, before being hot dip galvanised so you can be assured of a safe and trouble free trip.

The off-road camper trailer is fitted with our ever popular (automatic set-up) aided by a remote control key ring. It is extremely easy to set-up, as there is no back breaking exercise of opening and closing the camper. Packing up is just as quick and easy.

There is ample storage in the front nose cone and the interior and exterior layout provides separate areas for sitting, dining and sleeping, as well as the shower cubical which is also attached to the (right hand - driver side), underneath the side annex roof of the camper trailer.

The sleeping quarters is covered by canvas and includes a queen bed with bed head storage and the hard floor

area which also allows for further bedding, or internal table and chairs. The tropical roof prevents dew dripping on you and most important, it reduces the amount of heat from the sun. The kitchen sun shade protects you from the sun if you are stopping and want to sit under the kitchen area whilst eating and resting.

Travelander GEO Convert 2 Hard floor camper trailer Model GEO Convert 2 Model Price $48,700 Sleeps Up to 6 Tare 870kg ATM TBA Ball weight TBA Coupling All Terrain Suspension Independent Coil Brakes 10“ off-road electric drum Wheels/Tyres Landcruiser Water Capacity 120 Litres Warranty 12 months www.travelander.com.au

This model is fitted with our ever popular (automatic set-up) aided by a remote control key ring. It is extremely easy to set-up, as there is no back breaking exercise of opening and closing the camper.

Designed as a hard floor, (left hand) side folding camper trailer, you can open the hard floor sleeping quarters of the camper trailer, anywhere and have a rest during the day. Or if you are feeling like a snack, you can pull off on the side of the road and prepare your lunch hassle free, from the rear kitchen of the camper trailer.

Fitted full of accessories, this particular tray back camper, has been designed so that you can pack up and go anywhere for a weekend getaway or a long awaited travel holiday.

It has a 12 volt electrical system, with the allocation of two x 240 volt power plug outlets. Solar panels can also be fitted, however this camper trailer is fitted with a battery charger and inverter which are located inside, along with two 120 amp hour batteries. These are charged by the aid of an Anderson plug to the vehicle.

The kitchen is located at the rear, which when open is sheltered from the sun, as the kitchen door when opened sits hinged on gas struts above your head.

You are also supplied with a sun shade which protects you from the sun.

Autofridge portable fridge Accessories AUTOFRIDGE Australia Pty Ltd is an Australian owned company that is now in its 24th year. The AUTOFRIDGE project began in 1986 after a prototype portable fridge was built to test out the eutectic refrigeration principle that had been used in the marine industry for many years.

The first AUTROFRIDGE portable eutectic refrigerators for 4WD applications were produced in 1987 and the product quickly gained acceptance due to its exceptional efficiency and high quality.

Today, the product is still hand built with the prime objectives being efficiency, reliability and a high standard of finish.

In a conventional compressor powered refrigeration system the evaporator is mounted inside the fridge cabinet and makes everything cold when the compressor is running. When the compressor turns off, the fridge warms up. The system starts up again to bring the temperature

down. This process continues constantly and is controlled by the thermostat - all very simple and in most cases reliable.

Eutectic refrigeration is simply the use of a compressor-driven refrigeration system coupled to a cold storage device, i.e. eutectic tank (sometimes called ‘ice bank’ or ‘ice wall’). The eutectic tank contains a liquid which is chilled and frozen during the refrigeration cycle.

This mass of ice housed within the tank is capable of keeping the temperature of an insulated box at refrigeration temperatures for long periods of time without running the compressor. When the eutectic tank or ice bank has thawed, the refrigeration system is run again to re-establish the ice bank.

In a properly designed eutectic system the refrigeration system only needs to be run once or twice daily with very long periods between each run. It is not necessary to have an auxiliary

battery just to run the EUTECTIC fridge.

The advantage of the eutectic system is that the refrigeration unit does not need a power source on a continuous basis, whereas a conventional system must have power available at all times.

For enquiries, contact us at E: autofridge@bigpond.com P: (02) 9316 9539 F: (02) 9316 9871 www.autofridge.com.au

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OzRoamer Directory

Hillbilly Camping Gear Accessories Hillbilly Camping Gear provides Australian Made cooking equipment ideal to use anywhere from the backyard to the bush. Made from uncoated blue steel, all Hillbilly frypans, camp ovens cook stands and BBQs are made to last a lifetime of camping use with minimum maintenance required.

Hillbilly camp ovens have earned a reputation as the best camp oven cooking system available.

The BushKing 12.5 litre is manufactured from spun blue steel, making this camp oven much tougher, harder wearing and easier to clean than cast iron alternatives.

The unique design makes the BushKing a most versatile fireside companion as camp oven, frypan and saucepan. To heat the camp oven you can choose to use campfire coals, Heatbeads, dry sticks or the purpose designed Hillbilly KingCooker gas conversion for maximum flexibility in use across environmental and weather conditions.

Take a look at the range of accessories available (including baking trivet, vegie roasting ring, pot stand, gas conversion, carrybag and cookbook) and you’ll know it really is the most versatile camp oven system available. Check out our complete BushKing Kit packages. Dimensions: 12.5 litre, 415mm widest diameter - lid, Weight 4.6Kg The Hillbilly Cookbook - featuring 200 easy recipes to try out with your Hillbilly Camping Gear is written specifically for the Aussie camper, it is a must have to make your bush cooking a gourmet experience.

Hillbilly Camp Oven Carrybag Manufactured from a tough heavy weight canvas the carrybag keeps your camp oven and all its accessories together and easy to transport. Weight 0.8Kg Now there is also a broad range of Hillbilly products that will add even more pleasure to your outdoor living experience. These include frypans, woks, cooking stands, tent pegs, tent peg puller,

Billy cans, kettles, hot water boiler, BBQ grills, fireside spit, general camping accessories, etc.

Contact us at: Hillbilly Camping Gear, 21A Kevin Avenue, Ferntree Gully, Vic, 3156.

P: 0407 540 005 F: 03 8678 3931 E: sales@campingwithhillbilly.com www.campingwithhillbilly.com

Korr Lighting 3 BAR CAMP KIT Accessories Finally a new quality LED light ideal for camping, 4WD’s, caravans, boats and more! These weatherproof lights provide more than enough light to see what you’re doing at night.

Installation is a breeze! This DIY kit comes with all the necessary cables, quick connectors and mounting hardware so you can install yourself in nearly all applications. Due to its aluminium casing and fully waterproof (IP68) LED’s, the Light Bar light is extremely tough. We back our product with a 2 year warranty. 30 day money back guarantee.

You no longer need to pack the lantern/torch when camping.

Never have to cook before it gets dark. No hot elements from gas lamps. Leave them on all night and it will not affect your battery. A dimmer switch is supplied so you can turn down the brightness in the kids room. All lights are IP68

rated, that means they will run under water.

50,000 hour life span. Power consumption being only a mere 0.5 amp per light bar means you could run this light off a normal car battery for 100 hours before the battery goes flat.

FEATURES: 2 year warranty / 1 year commercial, Waterproof (IP68), 12 volt, 7.2watt per 50cm bar, 120 deg beam angle, 50,000 hour life span, Little to no heat, Durable / impact resistant, Massive 450 lumens per 50cm Light bar, DIY install, no electrician required 3 BAR KIT CONTAINS: 3 x high power 50cm Light bars, 1 x dimmer switch “The dimmers are on/off switches as well”, 1 x 10m quick connect cable with cigarette attachment, 1 x battery terminal clamps to cigarette adaptor, 2 x 1.2m cables with quick connects, 2 x 2.5m cable with quick connects 2 x splitter cables with quick connects, 6 x Velcro wraps for mounting, 6 x

magnets for mounting 6 x zip-ties for mounting, 1 x reusable container, 6 x mounting Clips Contact us on Ph: 07 3801 8332 www.korrlighting.com.au

LiftTrax Recovery Gear Accessories LiftTrax (originally called pillowtrack) is the ultimate gadget for anyone with a truck, 4x4 or AWD vehicle. A drive-on device for when your vehicle gets stuck in sand, mud or other difficult terrain, this ingenious device rolls out of a small carrying bag and inflates to become mobile traction.

Developed by 4x4 enthusiasts Dan Hermann and Eyal Benjamin who are both engineers by trade. Made from a special reinforced fabric, LiftTrax are strong enough to support a four tonne vehicle by using the pneumatic power of trapped air, but are lightweight and compact enough to roll up into a small duffle bag.

Therefore, with no heavy metal bars, no hard to store long plates and the extra advantage of being able to lift the vehicle not just give it grip, Their solution is one of the most versatile on the market.

A fraction of the size and weight of metal or

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plastic boards used by off road vehicle owners to get unstuck, LiftTrax are a compact insurance policy against getting held back by Mother Nature. In addition, while other off road gadgets only work in specific scenarios such as mud, sand or rocks, LiftTrax are multi-purpose as, with their built in flexibility, they mould themselves to the shape or texture of the different terrain or obstacle.

Another distinct advantage of LiftTrax is that they don’t just provide stuck vehicles with traction; they simultaneously lift the vehicle as well. Boasting twice the bursting pressure of the commonly known exhaust jack, LiftTrax raise the beached vehicle up and allow it to drive away.

They even have a specially designed version for AWD SUV’s so owners can be adventurous with some comfort.

Inventor Dan Hermann says “It’s an all-in-one

device that is compact enough to keep in your vehicle at all times but big and tough enough to get you out of some really sticky situations.” “People are finding LiftTrax useful everywhere”.

To get your LiftTrax in Australia contact Ian Oake and the boys at Opposite Lock Brookvale on (02) 9939 5133 or email them at info.brookvale@oppositelock.com.au

OzRoamer Directory

So Simple Solutions Accessories Smarttouch induction cooker represents the newest development in electromagnet induction technology for home and kitchen use.

Utilising the patented hi-flux conductor, Smarttouch will boil water 3 times quicker than gas and 5 times quicker than electricity.

That represents a saving of 60% on your energy bills, and that’s a fact.

Cool to touch, Smarttouch does not heat the cooker surface, just the base of the pot or pan on it by scrambling the molecules in its the base, causing rapid heating of the entire surface area of the base and ensuring an even distribution and heating of the food.

The SmartTouch induction cooker uses electromagnetic energy to heat cookware made of magnetic materials (steel, iron, nickel or various alloys). When the cooker is turned on, the coils produce a high frequency alternating magnetic field.

Each unit is equipped with a sensor that continually monitors the heat and temperature of the base of the pot. The power output will automatically be reduced if and when the sensor detects any overheating. If you forget to turn off your cooker, the heating zone will automatically shut down after a 2 hour period.

The benefits of induction cooking: heats up food, cools down kitchens, totally portable, great for entertainment areas, caravans and motorhomes save space on carting heavy, bulky and cumbersome gas bottles, place a cast iron griddle on it, turn your induction into a barbeque, even in a total fire ban.

The advantages of using a Smarttouch induction cooker are: weighs just 1.5 kg, operates at 220-240 Volts and only 6.8 Amperes, uses only 2000 Watts, suits 2 kVA generators, wipes clean with warm, soapy water, is double insulated, it is a very healthy way to cook,

uses 50% less fats or oils, snap locks the flavours and nutrients into food, comes with a 12 months warranty.

Contact us at www.sosimplesolutions.com.au or phone us on (02) 9712 1022

Camps Australia Wide Accessories Camps Australia Wide 6th Edition is a comprehensive travel guide to the best free camping and low cost camping spots, rest areas, station stays, national and state parks , country and remote caravan parks throughout Australia. This is a great guide for motorhomers, caravanners, camper trailer owners and is also very useful for visitor’s to Australia who are travelling by rental campervan or motor home.

We have 2 versions of Camps 6th Edition: This edition of Camps Australia Wide A4 size with 400 colour pages, 3,751 listings. It has been planned to provide information that is comprehensive in a user-friendly format. The guide lists rest areas, campgrounds, low-cost caravan parks, National Parks and State Forests.

Also published in our 6th edition is our “B4 size Camps 6 with CampsSnaps” which in addition to a location description includes over 2100 photos to assist travellers in planning a stay based

on a visual aspect. It enables you to see what camp sites are like in advance and determine if the camp facilities and location are suitable for your particular needs, eg access, spaciousness, environment and aesthetic appeal, all of which goes towards a more enjoyable and comfortable site for the night.

Camps Australia Wide 6th Edition includes Hema Road Maps, with the campsites positioned in their approximate locations on the maps.

In this edition we have added over 450 new site listings and removed a number of sites that no longer meet the price criteria, have been closed or have been visited by us and found to be no longer suitable.

During the last two years we have travelled over 75,000 kilometres and have noticed that many small towns are creating some great communityrun camp spots. Theses are included in our new edition. Please support these by spending

a dollar or two in the community for by doing so we can ensure that there continues to be more options available for travellers to choose from as we explore this great country.

Being able to plan a trip with stopovers that are free or low cost, knowing if a pet is welcome and seeing at a glance what facilities are available, has proven to be a hit with travellers across Australia. www.campsaustraliawide.com

Workabout Australia Accessories Workabout Australia is Australia’s foremost online resource and planning tool for travelling workers, connecting travellers with casual, seasonal, part time and permanent work around Australia.

Founded in 1996 Workabout Australia has built up a network of contacts for employment opportunities in all states and territories of Australia. The Workabout Australia Club has thousands of members who are already travelling or planning to set off on their trip of a life time, taking advantage of the many opportunities that are available for those who want to work.

Travelling to Australia on a working holiday, or looking to relocate permanently? Our tips for travelling to Australia will help get you started.

We also offer employers a fantastic, price effective alternative for advertising their positions vacant. For less than the cost of a single ad in the local paper our employers can list as many

jobs as they need to for 12 months with their vacancies “hand delivered” to thousands of Workabout Australia Club Members in our weekly email bulletin.

As a member based organisation our primary aim at Workabout Australia is to provide tangible benefits and support to our members as they travel Australia, or go through the planning process preparing for their trip of a lifetime.

Once a member of Workabout Australia you will begin receiving the weekly email bulletin we send every Friday morning containing details of any new positions that have become available that week. The bulleting also contains hints and tips, member’s stories and updates on any new deals or discounts being offered to members.

To ensure maximum benefit to our members the positions listed in the weekly email bulletin are not made available in the public area of the

website until ten days after they are listed. This means that Members have first access to all new jobs on the website and that they are sent out in our weekly bulletin before being made available to non-members.

Membership of the Workabout Australia Club also entitles you access to the secure Member’s area of the website.

www workaboutaustralia.com.au

Isuzu D Max Dual Cab Ute

$54,160 RDAP

By Rob Fraser The all new Isuzu D Max was launched in July 2012 in five specification levels and three body configurations, two transmission and one engine choice. It builds on its reputation of reliability and economy with new levels of performance, safety and comfort across the entire range.

Prices start from around $29,200 RDAP for the 4x2 single cab chassis through to around $$56,851 RDAP for the highly featured LS Terrain dual cab ute version which represents outstanding value.

The revised body shape is not only efficient when it comes to reducing wind noise but allows more internal space than before. The front seat occupants have adequate room but the rear passengers are a little cramped if they are anywhere near tall.

Dash layout works well and there are some really clever and practical touches like the shelf under the steering wheel, stalk controlled MFD and the pull out cup holders on each side of the dash.

The only problem is that they face the vents so they can cool coffee a little etc.

Model Isuzu D Max LS Terrain Model Price $56,851 RDAP Engine 3.0 litre turbo-diesel 4 Cyl Drivetrain 5sp Auto ‘shift on fly’ 4X4 Power 130 Kw @ 3,600 rpm Torque 380 Nm @ 1,800 rpm Safety N/A Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 214 Green Vehicle Rating 2 1/2 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 10.0 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3000 kg Tow Ball Rating 300 kg Warranty 3yr/100,000 km Roadside assist

The entire D Max range now also comes equipped with a host of added safety benefits, including 4-channel 4-sensor Anti-skid Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and Brake Assist (BA), along with six (6) airbags (dual front, curtain and side). A highstrength tailor blank welded passenger safety cell also increases occupant safety.

The all new D Max range is powered by a new highly refined fuel efficient 3.0litre turbo common rail diesel engine. This advanced Euro4-compliant unit generates 130kW and a peak torque output of 380Nm at 1800rpm. The torque is delivered across a flat curve through a large majority of the rev-range to aid drivability and ease of towing.

All new Isuzu D Max also introduces a new ‘Terrain Command’ 4WD select dial, allowing the driver to adjust between two-and four-wheel drive modes while travelling at speeds of up to 100km/h.

Even though the engine is a little lower in power than some of its competitors, the delivery of power in a linear fashion overcomes any shortfall you might perceive. The other thing to note about the Isuzu D Max is that the engine is built to robust specifications. These engines are known to last for many hundreds of thousands of kilometres, and they are very economical. So while the D Max engine doesn’t have the specifications of say the Ranger, on the road and especially off road there is always more than enough power available.

On road handling is good if a little bumpy but off road is where the D Max shines. It performed effortlessly on the sand, loved the rough stuff on fire trails and forging new tracks and towing proved a non issue. In fact the D Max is one of our favourite towing utes.

Isuzu D Max utes are outstanding value for money, robust and tough, with under stressed engines and love the rough 4WD trails. In short they are ideal outback tourers for 4WD enthusiasts and for towing that camper trailer to your favourite destination.

What’s good: • Off Road ability • Robust and tough • Excellent Value What’s not so good: • Interior a little bland • Bluetooth reception • Dual push TCS deactivation

Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 7 Comfort 6 Equipment 7 Performance 7 Ride & Handling 7

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74/100

Practicality 8 Fit for Purpose 8 Towing Ability 7 Off Road Ability 8 Value for Money 9

Mitsubishi Triton GXLR Dual Cab Ute

$55,527 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Mitsubishi has had the current Triton for a few years now and while it was radically styled and equipped when it first came out, in the last two years most of the market has caught up and bypassed the ageing Triton. Having said that the Triton remains an honest robust workhorse that is fantastic off road and good for towing.

The 2012 upgrade included two new models and some feature and safety improvements. The model range now has five 2WD models and six 4WD models, three engine choices and two transmission choices. Prices start at $21,990 RDAP for the GL Cab Chassis 2dr 2.4i up to around $56,000 for the GLX-R Dual Cab 4x4.

The 4x4 Triton’s 2.5 litre engine with 131kW of power at 4,000rpm and 400Nm of torque at 2,000rpm (manual) delivers combined fuel economy figures between 8.0 to 8.3L/100km, depending on model. Automatic variants generate a similar amount of power, 350Nm of torque, and achieve a combined fuel economy figure of between 9.3 – 9.6L/100km, depending on model.

Model Mitsubishi Triton GLX-R Utility Double Cab Model Price $55,527 RDAP Engine 2.5 litre turbo-diesel 4 Cyl Drivetrain 5sp Auto Super Select 4X4 Power 131 Kw @ 4,000 rpm Torque 350 Nm @ 1,800 rpm Safety 4 Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 217 Green Vehicle Rating 2 1/2 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 8.3 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3000 kg Tow Ball Rating 300 kg Warranty 5yr/130,000 km Roadside assist

The entry-level 4x4 Triton GLX Single Cab’s cabin has been upgraded to include sport seats with vinyl flooring, floor console with lid and driver’s seat height adjustment. Externally, the GLX gets 16-inch steel wheels and front fender flares while safety is improved through the inclusion of Active Stability and Traction Control as standard.

The next model up, the 4x4 GLX Club Cab, now has towing capacity increased to three tonnes and the inclusion of ASTC as standard. The exterior also receives an update thanks to wider 16-inch steel wheels and tyres as well as front and rear fender flares.

The interior feels a little dated but still functional.

Driver’s seat could use some squab adjustment and more travel. The GLX-R multi-function display provides endless information about your driving environment with clock and date, compass, barometer to help track weather conditions, altimeter to show how high you’ve travelled, range to empty reading, average fuel consumption and

the temperature outside the car.

Mitsubishi’s All Terrain Technology (MATT) is standard on all GLX-R models, and features the acclaimed Super Select four-wheel drive system, which includes ASTC, ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and an optional Diff Lock.

All 2012 Tritons have standard driver and front passenger SRS airbags, front and rear door impact bars, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and child restraint points. Side and curtain SRS airbags are also available on selected models. Other safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) Active Stability Control (ASC), Active Traction Control (ATC), Smart Brake (Brake Override System) Side & curtain SRS airbags (GLX-R) and Child restraint anchorage.

The 2012 Mitsubishi Triton is a long way into the model life cycle which means that hopefully it will be replaced in the next few years by a new model.

In the meantime it remains an honest, robust ute capable of heavy duty off road work and is great for towing that camper trailer as far off road as you dare to venture.

What’s good: • Off Road ability • Robust and tough • Reliability What’s not so good: • Bouncy ride • Engine noise • Interior dated

Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 7 Comfort 6 Equipment 6 Performance 6 Ride & Handling 6

66/100

Practicality 7 Fit for Purpose 7 Towing Ability 7 Off Road Ability 8 Value for Money 6

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SsangYong Actyon Dual Cab Ute

$40,109 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Ssangyong launched its much improved new Actyon Sports Ute in March 2012. With improved styling, engine and transmission and features, the new Actyon Sports Ute is available in three derivatives – the entry-level Tradie, mid-range SX and top of the range SPR. The Tradie and SX models are available in 2WD or 4WD with a choice of the new 6-speed manual transmission or the redesigned 6-speed automatic transmission. The SPR is available in 4WD automatic only. Prices start around $27,000 to $42,237 RDAP. Inside the cabin, the drivers seat has restricted leg room for tall drivers but a comfortable driving position can be found. The redesigned dashboard panel features a new instrument cluster with LED lighting and trip computer to measure time driven, distance to empty, average fuel consumption and distance travelled. Noise Vibration Technology (NVT) makes the cabin of the vehicle considerably quieter.

Other items include: air conditioning, power steering, remote keyless entry, USB and AUX Model SsangYong Actyon Sports SPR Model Price $42,237 RDAP Engine 2.0L DTR 4 Cyl Drivetrain 6sp Auto Part Time 4X4 Power 114 Kw @ 3,400 rpm Torque 360 Nm @ 1,500 rpm Safety N/A Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 201 Green Vehicle Rating

2 1/2 Star

Fuel (ADR comb) 7.6 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 2300 kg Tow Ball Rating 230 kg Warranty 3yr/100,000 km Roadside assist

port, multifunction trip computer, power windows including a one-touch anti-trap safety feature on the driver’s side, electronically heated side mirrors and front windscreen, variable speed intermittent wipers, one-touch windscreen wash function, CD/ MP3 player with four speakers, audio switches on steering wheel, sunglasses holder, drink holder, floor mats, door scuff plate, power outlets; and for the tray, a liner to protect the vehicle as well as onboard cargo.

Alloy wheels, cruise control, leather bound steering wheel and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are standard on SX and SPR models.

The SPR comes with a host of equipment designed for the driver and the family including leather seats throughout, climate control, rear park assist sensors, stylish 18” alloys, electronically adjustable front seats, folding side mirrors, electronic dimming rear-view mirror, auto wipers and auto headlights and headlamp levelling device.

A new addition to the SPR is the option of a

factory fitted electronic sunroof.

Fuel economy and emissions have improved across the range. The 2WD Tradie and SX models offer 7.3L/100km combined city/highway driving for the manual with only 192g/km emissions, while the 4WD manual option for the Tradie and Sports sips 7.4L/100km with 195g/km emissions.

The all-new, more powerful 2.0-Litre e-XDi200 Active Diesel engine has a wide torque band with maximum torque available between 1,500 – 2,800rpm, making it suitable for towing, even though it has tow rating of only 2300kg, which it tows with ease.

Off road and on the sand the Actyon Sports Ute performs pretty good, especially on sand. It can become a little unsettled on corrugated roads but relished the off road driving on the whole.

The Ssangyong Actyon Ute is a huge improvement over the previous model and the more you drive it the more you like it. It’s actually well liked here at OzRoamer as a robust honest ute that will provide reliable service without the fanfare and price tag of some of its competitors. The pick is definitely the SPR for recreational use but the Tradie variant should find a heap of buyers as well.

What’s good: • Easy to live with • Robust • Value for money What’s not so good: • Stupid clock • Snug inside • Low tow rating Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 6 Comfort 6 Equipment 6 Performance 6 Ride & Handling 7

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66/100

Practicality 7 Fit for Purpose 7 Towing Ability 6 Off Road Ability 7 Value for Money 8

Toyota Hilux Dual Cab Ute

$58,332 RDAP

By Rob Fraser When Ford introduced its all new Ranger late 2011, Toyota knew their HiLux was in trouble in the market. So they acted by upgrading the model range with a heap of new features and dropped the prices, sometimes as much as $5,000 plus.

The HiLux has always had an enviable reputation especially in the commercial market, e.g. in mines etc. However the ‘unbreakable’ tag isn’t quite so strong now.

HiLux now comes with the choice of three cabins - Single, Xtra and Double Cab; two styles - pickup and cab-chassis; three equipment grades WorkMate, SR and SR5; three engines - 2.7 litre four-cylinder petrol, 4.0 litre V6 petrol and a 3.0 litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel; the choice of twowheel drive and four-wheel drive; and 5 Speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Toyota’s HiLux range now starts with the 4x2 WorkMate Single Cab cab-chassis at $18,990 through to the range topping 4x4 SR5 turbodiesel Dual Cab at approximately $58,332 RDAP.

Model Toyota Hilux SR5 5 Speed Auto Model Price $58,332 RDAP Engine 3.0L DD4 Drivetrain 5sp Auto 4X4 part time Power 126 Kw @ 3,6000 rpm Torque 343 Nm @ 1,400 rpm Safety 4 Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 219 Green Vehicle Rating 2 ½ Star Fuel (ADR comb) 9.3 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 2500 kg Tow Ball Rating 250 kg Warranty 3yr/100,000 km

HiLux interiors have been updated where the centre stack features new controls for the heating and ventilation system and, for SR5 variants, automatic climate control has been added to the air-conditioning.

A major improvement is the addition of advanced new audio systems on all variants. Depending on the grade, they feature voice recognition, touch screen, radio text, 3D graphics for the satellite navigation and safety warnings for school zones, speed and red-light cameras. As part of these audio upgrades, all SR5 models will come with satellite navigation as standard, viewed on the 6.1” LCD touch screen.

Seating is comfortable however, like a lot of dual cab utes, the driver’s seat could have more travel. Overall there is adequate room but the rear passengers may be a little cramped especially if there are three of them.

Safety has improved as well with the following now on various models, not all though. Anti-Skid

Brakes (ABS) Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), front, side and curtain airbags, seat belt pre-tensioners etc.

On road handling is a little bouncy especially if the tray is empty however off road, on sand or almost anywhere, the HiLux remains composed and will take everything in its stride. It’s here that the HiLux shines and the reason they are so popular.

The lack of power shows up when towing heavy loads. Toyota has a habit of under powering their engines, but at the same time they are under stressed. It’s just very noticeable how far the competition has come with more powerful engines and 6 speed boxes the standard.

No one is ever really disappointed by buying a HiLux, it will do what you want and the enviable reputation is richly deserved, however there are better choices for those that want to tow heavy trailers especially off road.

For the recreational off road driver that also likes to tow the SR variant is probably the lick of the bunch, but the SR5 has more goodies and is more popular in this segment.

What’s good: • Off Road ability • Reputation • Build Quality What’s not so good: • Underpowered engine • Low Tow rating • Unladen ride Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 7 Comfort 7 Equipment 7 Performance 6 Ride & Handling 7

70/100

Practicality 7 Fit for Purpose 8 Towing Ability 6 Off Road Ability 8 Value for Money 7

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Toyota LC70 Dual Cab Ute

$75,894 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Toyota has finally created what could be the dream dual cab ute for many 4WD and towing enthusiasts. The LC70 Series Dual Cab combines the practicality of the configuration with the extreme robustness of the legendary troop carrier.

The LC70 dispenses with a number of the niceties that ‘clutter’ other utes and instead Toyota has responded to demand from the booming mining sector and from others requiring a rugged vehicle.

Australia is the first market in the world to get the new LC70 double cab, which builds on the vehicle’s tough, practical design.

On sale late September 2012, priced from around $71,000 RDAP, it will be the fourth body style in the range, joining the single cab-chassis, troop carrier and wagon.

The new variant comes in two grades, Workmate and GXL, both with 130 litre fuel tank capacity, 4.5 litre turbo-diesel V8 engine, 5 speed manual transmission and part-time 4WD with 2 speed transfer case.

The new double cab also benefits from production

Model Toyota LC70 GXL Double Cab Model Price $75,894 RDAP Engine 4.5L V8 Diesel Drivetrain 5sp Man Part Time 4X4 Power 151 Kw @ 3,400 rpm Torque 430 Nm @ 1,200 rpm Safety N/A Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 313 Green Vehicle Rating 2 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 11.9 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3500 kg Tow Ball Rating 350 kg Warranty 3yr/100,000 km

upgrades to the range, including anti-skid brakes on all grades, air-inlet snorkel mounted on the A pillar, improved seats, in-dash multi-function clock and audio/CD system with Bluetooth™ hands-free, audio streaming and voice-recognition phone/audio.

The main demand for the vehicle is from mining companies and other regional and rural communities. Add to that keen traditional 4WD enthusiasts.

The 70-Series range has been available in various guises for several decades. The wagon version and the 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8 were introduced as part of a major facelift in 2007. All variants adopted driver and front-passenger airbags in 2009.

Customer loyalty is remarkably strong, with the majority of buyers replacing existing LC70 Series vehicles due to its capabilities in rough conditions such as heavily corrugated unsealed roads.

In mine pits, the vehicles and their owners have to cope with extreme dust in the dry and thick mud in the wet. Some vehicles are also fitted with rail

arms to travel on train rails.

Double-cab Workmate comes with 16” steel split rims, aluminium side steps, vinyl seat facings and floor coverings, black bumpers and the extra cost option of diff locks.

The GXL version gains 16” alloy wheels, over-fender flares, remote central locking, differential locks, fog lamps, power windows, carpet and cloth seats.

Seven exterior colours are offered.

All nine LandCruiser 70 Series models share the 32-valve V8 turbo-diesel engine with common-rail direct injection and an intercooler.

The Euro IV-compliant V8 engine delivers 151kW of power at 3400rpm and replaces six-cylinder diesel and turbo-diesel engines.

Peak torque of 430Nm is reached at just 1200rpm and held all the way to 3200rpm – the flattest torque curve among all of Toyota’s engines.

The toughness and robustness of the LC70 Series is beyond question, however for an outback tourer you may miss some of the goodies that make life a little easier. Like everything, there is a compromise.

The question is, at the high prices asked are they worth it for the retail consumer.

What’s good: • Off Road ability • Robust and tough • Practicality What’s not so good: • Ridiculous price • Spartan interior • No auto option Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 6 Comfort 5 Equipment 5 Performance 8 Ride & Handling 6

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72/100

Practicality 9 Fit for Purpose 8 Towing Ability 10 Off Road Ability 10 Value for Money 5

VW Amarok Dual Cab Ute

$67,894 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Volkswagen has upgraded its Amarok in July 2012 to overcome some glaring shortcomings in its range. It introduced a more powerful diesel engine and an 8 speed automatic transmission to try to milk as much as it can from its underpowered engines. The 8th gear is purely an overdrive to improve fuel economy.

The Amarok range now includes a single cab variant as well to try to attract the Tradie market that has avoided the vehicle to date.

Starting at around $28,000 RDAP for the single cab 2WD variant through to a staggering $68,000 (approx) RDAP for the TDI 420 Ultimate Auto, the VW Amarok carries a hefty price premium over its competitors. However as they aren’t selling in any volume if you twist the dealers arm you should be able to get a substantial discount.

There are 5 model variants, three different driveline versions: permanent AWD, selectable 4WD (both 4MOTION), and rear-wheel drive (2WD) and four engine variants in the lineup.

Model VW Amarok TDI420 Ultimate Model Price $67,894 RDAP Engine 2.0DTT 4 Cylinder Drivetrain 8sp Auto 4Motion Perm Power 132 Kw @ 4,000 rpm Torque 420 Nm @ 1,750 rpm Safety 5 Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 219 Green Vehicle Rating 3 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 10.1 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3000 kg Tow Ball Rating 300 kg Warranty 3yr/unlimited km with full Roadside assist

However, the automatic transmission can only be purchased when combined with permanent 4-wheel drive and the 132 kW 2.0-litre twinturbo TDI420. If you want one of the other engine variants your only option is a six speed manual transmission which is next to useless in the recreational off road and towing market as the overwhelming majority of buyers opt for auto.

With exceptional on road handling and ride from the comfort suspension option, the VW Amarok has earned the nickname of the Claytons Ute as the handling turns to mush in rough off road driving. On sand the Amarok is pretty good but on heavy fire trails, corrugations etc it tends to bounce around and loses its composure more than others.

Internally the Amarok is spacious and typically VW which means well laid out and efficient.

There is adequate head and shoulder room and the rear passengers will not be cramped.

The Amarok can tow up to 3,000kg with a towball rating of 300kg. However the lower power turbo engines can struggle with heavy loads and off road situations. The 8 speed auto is the best option for towing. When we performed back to back tow tests the differences between the Amarok and for example the much better Ford Ranger were quite startling.

The 2012 upgrade has finally included Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, cruise control and a multi-function leather steering wheel as standard across the entire 4MOTION range.

VW Amarok was the first dual cab ute in the segment to achieve a 5 star ANCAP safety rating, a feat which most new utes now replicate.

It set the standard for safety though.

The VW Amarok was introduced with much fanfare and on the surface has many credentials to recommend it. If you are wanting a dual cab ute for mainly on road driving with some light towing then it is a great choice. However for serious off road and towing recreational drivers there are better, more robust choices at lower prices with less reliability issues.

What’s good: • On Road Handling • Internal space • Tray size What’s not so good: • Off road handling • Poor reliability • Price Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Whee 7 Comfort 7 Equipment 7 Performance 7 Ride & Handling 8

66/100

Practicality 7 Fit for Purpose 6 Towing Ability 7 Off Road Ability 5 Value for Money 5

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Ford Ranger Dual Cab Ute

$60,034 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Ford revitalised the dual cab ute market when it released its all new Ranger back in September 2011. The new Ranger and its sister Mazda BT50 introduced new levels of power and comfort to the ute market.

Starting at around $23,000 RDAP for the single cab 2WD variant through to around $65,000 (approx) RDAP for the Wildtrak, the Ranger covers the full spectrum of utes.

The Ford Ranger. comes in 3 model variants, 3 cab styles and 2 body styles. In addition to the 3 transmission choices, a 5 speed manual and 6 speed manual and automatic, there are three new engines.

Leading the way is Ranger’s new 3.2-litre Duratorq TDCi five-cylinder diesel engine with a substantial 470 Nm of torque and power output of 147 kW. Fuel consumption is 9.6 L/100 km on the Wildtrak 4x4. The new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi four-cylinder diesel engine delivers peak torque output of 375 Nm and power output of 110 kW and consumes as little

Model Ford Ranger XLT Model Price $60,034 RDAP Engine 3.2L TDCI 5 Cylinder Drivetrain 6sp Auto Power 147 Kw @ 3,000 rpm Torque 470 Nm @ 1,500 rpm Safety 5 Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 246 Green Vehicle Rating 2.5 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 9.2 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3350 kg Tow Ball Rating 335 kg Warranty 3yr/ 100,000 km with full roadside assist

as 7.6 L/100 km in a combined cycle. The 2.5-litre Duratec four-cylinder petrol engine now delivers 226 Nm of torque and power at 122 kW. The twowheel drive model consumes just 9.8 L/100 km in a combined cycle.

Stability Control (DSC) as standard on all models.

DSC includes Hill Descent Control, Hill Launch Assist, Trailer Sway Control, Adaptive Load Control, Emergency Brake Assist, Emergency Brake Light and Roll-Over Mitigation.

Internally the Ranger is spacious, well laid out and efficient. There is adequate head and shoulder room and the rear passengers will not be cramped.

Ranger also offers new passive safety technologies, with standard across all cab styles - side curtain airbags, newly designed side thorax airbags which deploy from the driver and front passenger seats only and all new frontal impact airbags are available for the driver and passenger, along with seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters.

The new Ranger comes with smart technologies including Bluetooth®, USB and iPod integration and voice control over the radio, CD, iPod, USB, and mobile phone are now standard on all models.

Similarly, cruise control is standard fitment across the entire range. Dual-zone climate control is fitted to all XLT and Wildtrak models and the rangeleading Wildtrak 4x4 will come with a five-inch colour screen with satellite navigation and a rear parking camera.

The Ford Ranger was amongst the first dual cab utes in the segment to achieve a 5 star ANCAP safety rating. Ranger is equipped with Dynamic

The Ranger can tow up to 3,350kg with a towball rating of 335kg. However it doesn’t feel like you are towing anything at all. Water wading capability is 800mm and a payload up to 1528Kg. Ground clearance is up to 237mm.

The Ford Ranger certainly set the benchmarks by which other utes are now measured. It is an excellent towing vehicle, comfortable both on and off road and the powerful diesel engine mated with the 6 speed automatic is a gem. It is the choice for serious off road drivers and for towing.

What’s good: • On Road Handling • Internal space • Towing capacity What’s not so good: • High sides on tub • MFD button • Foam visible around windscreen

Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 8 Comfort 8 Equipment 8 Performance 9 Ride & Handling 8

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88/100

Practicality 8 Fit for Purpose 8 Towing Ability 9 Off Road Ability 8 Value for Money 7

Holden Colorado Dual Cab Ute

$56,922 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Holden released its all new Colorado in June 2012.

Totally new from the ground up, the Colorado competes in a hotly contested market segment.

Pricing for the Holden Colorado ranges from $26,990 RRP for the DX 4x2 Single Cab, powered by a 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine with manual transmission, to $56,922 RRP for the top-of-therange 2.8 litre diesel LTZ Colorado 4x4 Crew Cab with automatic transmission.

Colorado comes in four model variants, three cab styles and two body styles. In addition there are two transmission choices, a 5 speed manual and 6 speed automatic and a choice of two all-new four cylinder Duramax turbo diesel engines, a 2.5 litre or 2.8 litre powertrain option.

The 2.8 litre turbo-diesel generates 132 kW @ 3,800rpm of power and maximum 470 Nm @ 2,000rpm of torque when teamed with the sixspeed auto, and a maximum 440 Nm of torque when teamed with five-speed manual transmission.

Vehicles powered by the 2.8 litre diesel engine will Model Holden Colorado LTZ Model Price $56,922 RDAP Engine 2.8L TDCI 4 Cylinder Drivetrain 6sp Auto Power 132 Kw @ 3,800 rpm Torque 470 Nm @ 2,000 rpm Safety 5 Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 243 Green Vehicle Rating 2.5 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 9.1 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3500 kg Tow Ball Rating 350 kg Warranty 3yr/ 100,000 km with full roadside assist

benefit from a class-leading towing capacity of 3.5 tonne and a tow ball rating of 350Kg. The 2.5 litre turbo-diesel is rated at 110 kW and produces 350 Nm of torque and will have an impressive 3.0 tonne towing capacity and a tow ball rating of 300Kg. To emphasise its workhorse qualifications, every Colorado is rated to carry a 1 tonne payload with some models able to carry up to 1.4 tonne.

The new Colorado offers an extensive choice of accessories to allow owners to customise their vehicle including a snorkel for the 2.8 litre diesel range, steel bull bar, body-coloured hard tonneau covers, alloy sports bar and nudge bar, steel and aluminium trays and canopy with unique glass areas.

Over 65 per cent of the accessories in the Colorado portfolio are unique to Holden and were developed and engineered in Australia.

Internally, the Colorado has a fresh and spacious feel with adequate head and shoulder room and

the rear passengers will not be cramped.

The 2012 Holden Colorado is packed with lifestyle and comfort features including on the LTZ Air-conditioning, power windows, Bluetooth® connectivity, USB input with iPod® connectivity, cruise control, leather wrap steering wheel with multifunction controls, front fog lamps, 17” alloy wheels (5), projector headlamps, chrome exterior mirrors with side turn signal and LED tail lights.

It also features soft tonneau, alloy sports bar, side steps, electronic climate control, 8-way electric adjustable driver’s seat and 8 speakers (Crew Cab).

Colorado also has a comprehensive list of active and passive safety features including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), driver and front passenger airbags and full length curtain airbags standard across the range. Like others now the Colorado has a 5 star ANCAP safety rating.

The Colorado is an ideal ute for towing with class leading capacity, and for off road use. Throw in the fact that it looks great and is comfortable to drive and Holden have themselves a winner here.

What’s good: • Off road ability • Towing Capacity • Style What’s not so good: • Some Trim rattles • Blue Speedo Dials • Sports Bar Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 8 Comfort 8 Equipment 8 Performance 8 Ride & Handling 7

81/100

Practicality 8 Fit for Purpose 8 Towing Ability 10 Off Road Ability 8 Value for Money 8

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Mazda BT50 Dual Cab Ute

$55,500 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Mazda launched the BT 50 in October 2011 and along with its sister Ford Ranger revitalised the dual cab ute market. The new BT 50 and its sister Ranger introduced new levels of power and comfort to the ute market.

Starting at around $28,754 RDAP for the single cab 2WD variant through to around $57,814 RDAP for the GT Range, the BT50 covers the full spectrum of utes.

BT 50 comes in three model variants, three cab styles and two body styles. In addition there are two transmission choices, a 6 speed manual and automatic there are two new engines.

Leading the way is a new 3.2 litre in-line 5 cylinder 20 valve DOHC intercooled turbo diesel that has maximum power of 147kW @ 3,000 rpm and maximum torque of 470Nm @ 1,750 - 2,500 rpm with fuel consumption (combined) of 8.4 (4x2) and 8.9(4x4) litres per 100km.

The new 2.2 litre in-line 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC intercooled turbo diesel has maximum power of 110 Model Mazda BT50 XTR Model Price $55,500 RDAP Engine 3.2L TDCI 5 Cylinder Drivetrain 6sp Auto Power 147 Kw @ 3,000 rpm Torque 470 Nm @ 1,500 rpm Safety 5 Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 246 Green Vehicle Rating 2.5 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 9.2 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3350 kg Tow Ball Rating 335 kg Warranty 3yr/ 100,000 km with full roadside assist

kW @ 3,700 rpm and maximum torque of 375 Nm @ 1,500 - 2,500 rpm and comes with a 80 litre fuel tank capacity and 6-speed manual. Fuel consumption is (combined)of 7.6 litres per 100km.

Internally the BT 50 is spacious, well laid out and efficient. There is adequate head and shoulder room and the rear passengers will not be cramped.

All model grades are packed with features including cruise control, Bluetooth®, power windows and mirrors, air-conditioning, and a MP3 compatible CD player with USB input, steering wheel mounted audio controls, trip computer and power windows and mirrors.

XTR models add 17” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, dual-zone climate control, leather gear shift knob and steering wheel, satellite navigation and chrome trim. Range-topping GT models add auto on/off headlamps, rear-view mirror with auto dimming function, rain-sensing wipers and leather seat trim.

The Mazda BT50 was amongst the first dual cab utes in the segment to achieve a 5 star

ANCAP safety rating.

BT 50 is equipped with airbags SRS front (driver and passenger) and curtain (driver and passenger), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Engine immobiliser, Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Load Adaptive Control (LAC), Remote central locking (2 transmitters with retractable key), Roll Stability Control (RSC), Side impact door beams, Traction Control System (TCS), Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Descent Control (HDC) – 4x4 only and Locking Rear Differential (LRD) – 4x4 only The BT 50 can tow up to 3,350kg with a towball rating of 335kg. Water wading capability is 800mm and a payload up to 1508Kg. Ground clearance is up to 200mm laden The Mazda BT 50 certainly set the benchmarks by which other utes are now measured. It is an excellent towing vehicle, comfortable both on and off road and the powerful diesel engine mated with the 6 speed automatic is a gem. It is a top choice for serious off road drivers and for towing.

What’s good: • Off road ability • Internal space • Towing capacity What’s not so good: • High sides on tub • MFD button • Foam visible around windscreen Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 7 Comfort 7 Equipment 8 Performance 9 Ride & Handling 7

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80/100

Practicality 8 Fit for Purpose 8 Towing Ability 9 Off Road Ability 8 Value for Money 9

Nissan Navara Dual Cab Ute

$61,750 RDAP

By Rob Fraser Nissan revised its Navara D40 model line up in February 2012 to keep up with the new model launches in the ute segment. The D40 is well into its model life cycle now but has the advantage of the most powerful engine in the segment.

The Navara D40 range now starts at around $34,126 RDAP for the RX 4X2 Dual cab pickup through to a staggering $69,206 (approx) RDAP for the STX 550 Dual Cab 4x4.

There are 4 model variants, two different driveline versions, three cab styles and two body styles.

The Navara has a choice two different engines that have different power offerings depending on what model they are in. There are also 4 different transmissions on offer.

The pick of the engines is the class-leading 550Nm @ 1,750rpm / 170kW @ 3,750rpm 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine mated to a 7 speed auto transmission. While this is powerful it is also thirsty with fuel consumption at 9.3L/100Km There is also a more powerful 2.5-litre fourModel Nissan Navara STX Model Price $61,750 RDAP Engine 3.0 V6 Diesel Drivetrain 7sp Auto Power 170Kw @ 3,750 rpm Torque 550 Nm @ 1,750 rpm Safety 4 Star ANCAP CO2 Emissions g/km 246 Green Vehicle Rating 2.5 Star Fuel (ADR comb) 9.3 L/100Km Tow Capacity Max 3000 kg Tow Ball Rating 300 kg Warranty 3yr/ 100,000km with full roadside assist

cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 450Nm @ 2,000rpm and 140kW @ 4,000rpm. This engine also has a variant that produces 106Kw in the entry level models.

Internally the D40 seems a little dated and there doesn’t seem to be as much room for the rear passengers. However all is forgiven when driving on road with that beautiful powerful V6 diesel.

Nissan increased the spec levels for 2012 including standard kit upgrades on the 4WD ST dual cab include 17” alloy wheels, 6 airbags, 60/40 split-fold seats, 3 child-seat anchor points, dual-zone air conditioning, choice of 6 speed manual or 5 speed auto and USB connectivity.

Additional features on the V6 ST-X include 7 speed auto with manual mode, alloy sports bar, fog lights, rear under-seat storage and privacy glass (second row). The higher spec ST-X 550 adds leather trim, heated front seats, premium Bose audio with hard drive, satellite navigation, reversing camera, satin black sports bar with integrated LED stop light.

Safety features include driver and front passenger front and side-impact SRS airbags, front to rear SRS curtain airbags, Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Electric Brake Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Active Brake Limited Slip Differential (ABLS) and Turn-back safety power window (driver) The Navara D40 can tow up to 3,000kg with a towball rating of 300kg. However the powerful engine doesn’t always mate perfectly with the 7 speed transmission and while you really don’t feel the weight of what you are towing the transmission can hunt between the gears on occasions. The other important thing to note is that the towball rating is dependent on what load the ute has on board.

The Nissan Navara D40 is a worthy competitor in the congested dual cab market segment.

While it is a little dated now compared to the latest releases, it still has a lot going for it, not the least a sterling reputation for robustness off road and while towing. If power and torque are your thing then there is not many choices better than the STX 550.

What’s good: • On Road Handling • Power and Torque • Tray size What’s not so good: • Dated interior • Interior space • Price Overall OzRoamer Rating: Behind the Wheel 7 Comfort 7 Equipment 8 Performance 9 Ride & Handling 8

75/100

Practicality 7 Fit for Purpose 8 Towing Ability 8 Off Road Ability 7 Value for Money 6

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Power vs.

Torque for towing

Today we look at the difference between torque and power, what do all the figures mean and how do the differences actually affect your everyday driving towing.

If you have a look at the table in our OzRoamer 4WD & SUV magazine you will see that power and torque figures are listed for every vehicle there. Now most of you know that both power (measured by horsepower or kilowatts) and torque (measured by Newton metres) play a role in performance but probably don’t understand exactly how or why.

You will know intuitively that a vehicle that has a lot of power is capable of going faster than one that has less power, but why is that?

To find out we need to go back to Isaac Newton

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and his second law that proposes that if you multiply an object’s mass by its acceleration, you can calculate the force acting upon it.

To start a vehicle moving you need to overcome inertia. We all know inertia, its that feeling that we can’t get started in the morning, so to move an object from rest takes energy.

The amount of energy used to move that object is measured by multiplying force by distance. If you then calculate the amount of energy used over a defined time you have the measurement of power, expressed in watts. Multiply by 1000 and you have kilowatts.

Torque is turning force, which for automotive applications is most often measured in either foot-pounds (ft-lbf) or Newton-meters (Nm) and

represents how much twisting force is at work.

Here’s a simple way to visualize torque. Think of this turning force applied through a lever to a wheel nut when you are changing a tyre. The more force you apply on that lever, the more torque you apply to the wheel nut, the more readily the nut turns.

This measurement of torque does not include time; one hundred Nm of torque is always one hundred Nm, whether it is applied for five seconds or five years.

So simply the difference between power and torque is that power involves the amount of work done in a given time, while torque is simply a measurement of force and is thus a component of power. Torque is actually a measure of the

ability of an engine to do work.

Power and torque are related by a simple equation: Kw = (Nm x r/min) / 9554 or Nm = (Kw x 9554)/rpm.

So with the technical bit done, let’s move beyond that to some real-world examples.

The initial energy that moves a car comes from an explosion of fuel in the combustion chamber.

This explosion forces a piston down in a straight line, which pushes on a connecting rod and turns the engine’s crankshaft. It’s in this turning crankshaft where the twisting force of torque initiates. From there, the force is carried through a flywheel, transmission, driveshaft, axle(s) and wheel(s) before moving the car.

We all know that a car moves from a dead stop in 1st or low gear, yet as the car’s speed increases, you must move up through the gears to maintain acceleration. This is because at low speeds the transmission’s gears work to transmit maximum torque from the engine to the wheels. You want this because it takes more force, or torque, to move a vehicle that is at rest than it does to move a vehicle in motion (Newton’s 1st Law).

At the same time, once a vehicle is underway, you want less torque and more power to maintain a higher speed. This is because power is a measurement of work done and includes a time element (such as wheel revolutions per minute necessary to maintain constant speed).

Since a gearbox changes the speed at which your wheels turn relative to engine speed, it either increases the torque at your wheels at a cost of speed (lower gears) or increases the speed of the wheels at a cost of torque (higher gears).

Every engine has differing torque characteristics and the torque a motor produces is not constant. It changes with engine speed.

Typically all motors start with very little torque, improving as engine speeds increase, and then peaks at some value before dropping off. A diesel engine produces strong torque at low rpm, but stops producing torque fairly soon and runs out of breath. A petrol engine produces less torque, but carries on towards a higher rpm.

need to be revved as hard to produce the necessary power.

Let’s have a look at some examples. The Mercedes Benz GL350CDi V6 produces a maximum 195Kw of power at 3750rpm and a maximum 650Nm of torque at 1,600rpm.

That is not the full story though; depending on the application you may want the engine to produce maximum torque for a longer period. In the example the Mercedes Benz 350CDi V6 produces its maximum 650Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,400rpm. This is the torque band. You can also see that although the motor has a maximum 195Kw of power, it is able to produce that for relatively short period at higher rpm. You can see that the characteristics of the E350CGi are totally different. The lower the engine has its maximums, the easier the vehicle is to drive on a daily basis.

Hopefully this column has helped a little.

Engineers and scientists with much better brains than mine have written books on the subject of power and torque so this is just an introduction to help with the simple understanding of the concepts.

However let me leave you with a pearl of wisdom: Power is what you read about, torque is what you feel.

Therefore when towing a caravan you will need a vehicle that has more torque at low rpm to help get things moving, but as you are moving you want more power to keep momentum going. That is why diesels are ideally suited to towing as they typically produce most of their torque quite low in the rev band and as such use less fuel.

The same often applies in off road situations where you are travelling at quite low speeds but require constant power. The higher torque at lower rpm means that the vehicle is better able to cope with tricky situations, as the car doesn’t Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

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4WD vs. AWD for towing

Perhaps one of the most confusing areas of the 4WD and AWD SUV market is just what is the difference between them and what do these terms mean? The fact that the manufacturers often use them out of context for their marketing purposes means that the average buyer has little chance of knowing the difference.

The most common misconception is that 4WD actually drives all four wheels all the time. Lets look at this a bit closer. Wheels must be allowed to rotate at different speeds as the vehicle goes around curves. A design that fails to account for this will cause the vehicle to handle poorly on turns, fighting the driver as the tyres slip and skid from the mismatched speeds.

A differential allows the two output shafts to operate independently with different speeds.

The differential distributes torque (angular force) evenly, while distributing angular velocity (turning speed) at variable rates. Each powered axle

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requires a differential to distribute power between the left and right sides.

This system handles extremely well, as it is able to distribute power evenly and smoothly; making slippage unlikely. Once it does slip, however, recovery is difficult. If the left front wheel of a 4WD vehicle slips on a muddy patch of road, for instance, the slipping wheel will spin faster than the other wheels due to the lower traction at that wheel.

Although the amount of torque applied to each wheel will be identical, the amount of traction at each driven wheel will be limited to that of the wheel with the least traction. This problem can happen whenever a driven wheel is placed on a surface with little traction or raised off the ground.

The introduction of a limited slip differential was one way of overcoming reduced traction but the more sophisticated traction control was invented to solve this problem. When one wheel spins

out of control the brake is automatically applied to that wheel. By preventing one wheel from spinning freely, power is divided between the road for the non-slipping wheel and the brake for the slipping wheel. By extending traction control to act on all four wheels the simple three-differential 4WD design will see limited wheel spin.

Locking differentials work by temporarily locking together a differential’s output shafts, causing all wheels to turn at the same rate, providing torque in case of slippage. This is generally used for the center differential, which distributes power between the front and rear axles.

The two most common factory-installed centre locking differentials use either a computercontrolled multi plate clutch or viscous coupling to join the shafts, while other differentials more commonly used on off-road vehicles generally use manually operated locking devices.

In the multi-plate clutch the vehicle’s computer

senses slippage and locks the shafts. In the viscous coupling differentials the stress of high shaft speed differences causes a dilatant fluid in the differential to become solid, linking the two shafts. Some designs use gearing to create a small rotational difference which hastens torque transfer.

When the front, centre and rear differentials are locked it’s the only time you have a true 4WD and that can only be for a short period in extreme off road suituations.

A third approach to limiting slippage is the Torsen differential. A Torsen differential allows the output shafts to receive different amounts of torque. This design does not provide for traction when one wheel is spinning freely, where there is no torque.

Finally, many vehicles entirely eliminate the center differential. These vehicles behave as 2WD vehicles under normal conditions. When the drive wheels begin to slip, one of the locking mechanisms discussed above will join the front and rear axles. Such systems distribute power unevenly under normal conditions and thus do not help prevent the loss of traction, instead only enabling recovery once traction is lost. Such systems may be described as having a 95/5 or 90/10 power split.

With so many options to choose from, it’s easy for drivers to get confused by a barrage of acronyms, each more meaningless than the last. For most buyers, there are three basic options: part-time 4WD, full-time 4WD, or AWD. Part-time 4WD This most basic system provides a choice of settings that can be changed depending on your

driving situation, but cannot be left engaged on dry pavement. If it is, the transfer case will wear, resulting in mechanical damage. The settings range from 2WD, 4WD High and 4WD Low. In vehicles that have part-time 4WD, each of the four wheels constantly gets 25 percent of the torque to prevent wheelspin when in the High or Low setting.

In newer models, the driver can shift from 2WD to 4WD High while driving, but must come to a complete stop to shift into the 4WD Low setting. 4WD Low should only be engaged in extreme off-road situations. This type of system is best for people who really don’t need 4WD for everyday use only for off-roading.

situations. AWD systems work well in SUV’s because they don’t add much weight and make them true all-weather vehicles.

Take a look at what kind of driving you normally do. Once you determine what type of vehicle best suits your needs, you can assess what type of system you need to get the job done. In some cases it may simply be AWD, in others, you may want to consider a more robust 4WD system with a low-range option. Choose wisely and remember you don’t necessarily need a heavy 4WD to tow a small or medium campertrailer or caravan.

Full-time 4WD Unlike part-time 4WD, full-time 4WD is just that, a system that can continually remain operating. This more advanced, convenient form of 4WD allows you to choose between all of the same settings, but can remain engaged while on dry pavement. Added to the High and Low settings is an automatic or full-time 4WD setting. As with part-time 4WD, the shift from High to Low must be made during a complete stop on most vehicles.

All-Wheel Drive All-wheel drive is similar to full-time 4WD in that the system is always sending power to the wheels. There is however no low range option. When the road gets slippery, the AWD system locks the centre axle and automatically distributes power to all four of the wheels. Some AWD systems are more rugged than others, though most can’t be taken into extreme off-road

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Towing Restrictions When you decide to tow a camper trailer there are certain restrictions you need to be aware of.

not specified a tow capacity for their vehicle or the limit cannot be identified, the following is taken to be the manufacturer’s limit for the purposes of the above:

The first is the towing capacity of the tow vehicle and the tow ball capacity. The manufacturer of the vehicle will specify the maximum towing capacity of its vehicle and the maximum tow ball rating.

or

Things to look out for are:

It is unlikely that you will ever need to apply these regulations as almost every manufacturer specifies a towing capacity for their vehicles. The OzRoamer 4WD & SUV Guide has the towing capacities and tow ball ratings for 150 popular models.

• Sometimes different model variants will have different towing capacities within the same range. This is often dependent on the engine capacity etc.

• Maximum towing capacities and tow ball capacities are often specified with heavy duty towing kits only.

• Some manufacturers reduce the payload capacity of the vehicle by the weight on the tow ball. Nissan is an example of this where if you are towing, the payload is dramatically reduced for some models.

• Some vehicles have a relatively acceptable towing capacity but a low tow ball rating which restricts the towing capacity anyway. The VW Tiguan is an example of this where it has a 2000kg towing capacity but only a 100kg tow ball rating. This makes it a poor towing vehicle.

• If you exceed any of the payload capacity, towing capacity or tow ball rating you can place your insurance and vehicle warranty in jeopardy.

Not many people realise that there are regulations in place for the national towing limits for light vehicles. The national towing limit was developed by the NRTC in consultation with transport agencies, motoring clubs, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, police, yachting clubs, caravan and other organisations.

A motor vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) not exceeding 4.5 tonnes must not without the approval of an Authority, tow a trailer with a mass (including any load) exceeding: • The capacity of the towing apparatus fitted to the vehicle; or • A relevant maximum trailer mass specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

In the unlikely circumstance where the manufacturer has

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• One and a half times the unladen mass of the motor vehicle if the trailer is fitted with brakes;

• The unloaded mass of the motor vehicle, if the trailer is not fitted with brakes.

However alongside these regulations sits the regulations for trailer brakes. If the camper trailer has an Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) less than 750kg then there is no requirement for brakes on the trailer.

If the ATM exceeds 750kg then the camper trailer must be fitted with brakes. If the ATM exceeds 2000kg then the camper trailer must be fitted with the extra security of breakaway brakes in the event the camper trailer comes loose from the towing vehicle. This last limit may change from state to state.

The other restriction you need to be aware of is the towing speed. Since December 1998 all trailers can be towed at the speed limit for that particular road with the exception of Western Australia where the maximum speed limit is 100km/h for vehicles towing a trailer with an ATM of over 750kgs.

Check your vehicle’s manual as some manufacturers place speed restrictions on a vehicle when towing over a certain weight or depending on what type of towing equipment is used. Spending a few minutes reading the trailer towing section in the owner’s manual is highly recommended.

In 1989 Australian Design Rules (ADRs) were introduced which affect the construction and towing of trailers, including camper trailers. Currently there are no towing regulations, which specifically refer to ‘camper trailers’.

The ADRs include the requirement for VIN plates on trailer

drawbars, which amongst other information states the aggregate, or maximum, mass of the trailer and data on the towbar, which indicates the rating of that towbar.

whatever you are putting in/on the trailer

It should be noted that ADR 62 states that the rated capacity of the towbar. “Shall not exceed the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations”. While there are rules, common sense also applies in the following ways: • The trailer really shouldn’t be bigger or heavier than the driver can safely control, • The total or laden mass of the trailer must not be more than: – The maximum mass (A.T.M.) determined by the trailer manufacturer and as stated on the trailer plate – The load rating of the trailer’s coupling of the towbar fitted to the towing vehicle, – The total load rating of all the trailer’s tyres.

How Heavy Is A Trailer?

Trailers are designed for a specific and maximum load capacity.

Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) – the mass transmitted to the ground through the axle(s) of a trailer when the trailer is loaded.

GTM = B + C

A Tow Ball Mass – the vertical down force placed on the towbar of the towing vehicle Tow Ball Mass (TBM) or Ball Weight (BW) – the mass exerted onto the towing vehicle through the towing hitch TBM = A

Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) – the total laden mass of the trailer.

ATM = A + B + C B Weight on Wheels – the vertical down force transmitted to the ground through the trailer axle(s) excluding the load

How Much Can A Trailer Take?

Trailers can legally carry the difference between TARE and AGGREGATE mass specifications stated on the trailer’s registration compliance plate.

LOAD = ATM – Tare Determined by trailer manufacturer based on: • Trailer construction • Axle load rating • Wheel and tyre load rating • Load Distribution Be mindful of the trailer’s centre of gravity: • Heavy items low and close to the axle or centre of the axle group • Light items only up high • Light items only to be placed in drawbar storage containers

Tare Mass – the total unladen mass of the trailer Tare = A + B C Load – boat, timber, gas, water, food, clothing, etc;

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TBM = 10% of ATM When trailer is loaded to ATM, a properly set up camper trailer will have about 10% of the ATM of the trailer on the tow ball, transferred to the rear of the towing vehicle This makes for safer towing. Loads can be carried more efficiently in a trailer: E.g. a 100kg load carried in a trailer would transfer only 10kg to the rear of the towing vehicle.

Also you need to ensure that the vehicle and camper trailer when attached is level i.e. not with the rear of the vehicle sagging. This will often mean that you will need load distribution hitches. These are not suitable for off road camper trailers in off road situations though. If off road make sure you unhook them or you could do some real damage to your tow vehicle. Coupling system aids really shouldn’t be used to balance out a badly loaded trailer.

If a trailer has a heavy mass at the front, then do NOT counter balance this with a heavy mass at the rear of the trailer – doing so will create a “bell” effect that dramatically increases the chances of trailer sway.

• Reduces trailer sway – as speed increases the TBM reduces, therefore if it is already low, at speed the trailer will start to “float” which means it will be harder to control (has its own mind) Oversized Loads Loads should be confined within the trailer as much as possible. Where a load must project, it must: • Not extend more than 150mm beyond trailer’s width, or trailer width must not exceed 2.5m, whichever is less • Have a red flag, at least 300mm square, attached if the load extends more than 1.2m behind the trailer • Not exceed a combined (vehicle and trailer) length of 19m Dangerous Loads

The Effect of Incorrect Loading

The main guide to carrying dangerous goods is the Australian Dangerous Goods Code; however some states and territories have variations, as a guide:

Incorrect loading effect can be:

• LPG – store only in current service life gas cylinders

• Front too heavy – puts too much weight on the towing vehicle’s towbar

• Diesel – considered to be combustible, but not dangerous; must be carried in approved containers and in a safe manner

• Rear too heavy – lifts weight off the back of the towing vehicle • Front & Rear too heavy – “bell effect” the trailer tends to “porpoise” The effect of an incorrectly loaded trailer on the towing vehicle:

• Petrol – no more than 250 litres carried in AS2906 containers in a safe manner

• TBM too heavy – overloads rear axle; lifts weight off front axle (we call this shooting possums with the headlights)

A half empty fuel container of unleaded fuel is far more volatile than one that is full – it is the fumes that ignite easier. When storing dangerous goods on a trailer, ensure the container is:

• TBM too light – becomes a zero TBM as vehicle speed increases (due to wind resistance)

• Protected from road damage (stones thrown up by either the trailer wheels or the towing vehicle wheels).

• Negative TBM – lifts weight off rear axle; transfers too much weight to front axle

• Stored away from any other item which may rub or vibrate against the container

• Zero TBM – has no effect on the axles of the vehicle, however leaves the trailer without direction

• Secured using non stretchable tie-down straps

The 10% Rule The Tow Ball Mass (TBM) should be approximately 10% of the Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM). Having a TBM of 10% has two distinct advantages: • Positive trailer control – when the towing vehicle changes direction the TBM forces the trailer to follow the vehicle

52

Well hopefully this has helped with an understanding of the basics of trailers. Like all things, education is the key. If you are serious about towing a camper trailer make sure you know the restrictions and rules and abide by them to avoid costly mistakes. *Thanks to Julie Eggenhuizen of tow-ed for some of the information in this article. You can contact Julie on Ph: 1300 305 660 or www.tow-ed.com.au

caring for your canvas For those who are looking at buying or who already own some sort of a camper trailer or slide on camper, you will come across canvas somewhere, somehow. It’s a material that has been used for many years, in truck tarps, touring tents, camper trailers and even in some caravans, the list goes on with its applications in the great Australian way of life outdoors.

Buyers have the choice of many different types of canvas on the market, some which are all cotton, some which are all polyester and some a mixture of the both. It’s important to understand the differences in canvas and their different applications. The importance is whether you’re using the right canvas for the right situation, and if you are finding difficulties in use, then this article may help you know why.

To the average person the world of canvas is something they probably never really have thought about, it’s there, you use it, you don’t touch the sides in the rain and hopefully you keep it clean, what more is there to know other? Well heaps actually!

100% all cotton canvas, is not used much in the RV industry any more, its history lies in the times before polyester came on to the market.

Cotton canvas has a number of advantages

There are a few different types of canvas but only one-way to care for it. Treated right, quality canvas should give the owner many years of faithful service. The first thing to know is that Canvas has come a long way in the last 5-7 years. The canvas today is vastly different to the canvas when you were a kid.

Firstly, it’s a fabric that breathes; this allows the canvas to be used in applications such as tents etc. Secondly, cotton canvas helps the water proofing process because the cotton soaks up moisture or water.

Unfortunately 100% cotton canvas also has some disadvantages, the main one being that 100% all cotton does not stand up to the harsh elements of the Australian weather and the life expectancy is shortened due to the breakdown of the fabric. You may still see all cotton in swags, where they’re not exposed to the elements for great lengths of time.

100% all polyester canvas is used in sunblinds & shades and outdoor structures. Polyester gives the fabric its strength and due to its all man made content it’s not susceptible to staining and mould. However it’s not a breathable fabric like the cotton or poly/cotton blends and using this type of fabric in a camper is like sleeping inside a plastic bag!

The polyester & cotton canvas used in campers these days are usually a mixture of 50/50 poly/cotton blend or 65/35 poly/cotton blends.

The polyester is for the strength and durability and the cotton is for the waterproofing and breathing aspect. The cotton will take up water, swell and sit in place. This combined with the waterproofing; waxing agents etc they place on their canvas makes it an ideal breathable waterproof structure if used correctly in the manufacturing of camper trailers etc.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

53

accept that it’s really not necessary to use heavier canvas, even on the roofs, when you have a cloth that has all the same capabilities as the 15oz but you don’t have to break your back lifting or working with it.

Now you need to go back a few steps in this article, the part where I was describing the poly/cotton canvas and how it behaves. If you have a camper trailer with new canvas work, and it is a poly cotton blend, you will need to “weather” it before heading out on your trip. Despite the pigment proofing and water proofing process the manufacturers put their canvas through, the canvas sewer will cut and sew the canvas, and in this process puncture the cloth with needles and join cloth-to-cloth, cloth to zips and cloth to binding etc. This all produces holes in the canvas.

If you pierce a poly/cotton canvas with a sewing needle, the cotton will move back in to place around the thread once it has been taken up with water, the pure polyester canvas won’t.

Much has been made of the weight of canvas with many manufacturers claiming different weights are better for different applications. To the normal person this is again confusing, so I’m going to focus now on the poly/cotton canvas and the 2 main weights of canvas used in the RV Industry – 15oz and 11oz.

15oz canvas is usually 50/50 poly/cotton blend; this weight of canvas has been used in the industry for many years. It is made by one thick single strand of canvas woven one way, one woven the other, then proofed by a substance that may contain rot proofing agents, UV stabilizers, water proofing agents and an acrylic binder. The material is usually placed in a bath of this mixture, the excess squeezed out and placed through a roller so the pigment proofing process penetrates the fibre. Once this occurs it is either dried or cured by rolling it over a hot roller twice or by a gas fired drying process, almost like a convection oven, depending on who the manufacturer is.

All of these outdoor poly/cotton canvas products should have quality poly/cotton threads used as well, this again helps with the water proofing process when you have penetrated the material, even a zip!

Any good canvas manufacturer of outdoor products will also use lock seams in areas of extreme exposure to the elements to minimise the risk of leakage.

There are 3 manufacturers of canvas in Australia, Wax Converters, Bradmill and Defab. Two of these manufacture bring the base cloth in and then do the proofing process as described above, the other weaves proofs the base cloth here. There is some very fine canvas produced here in Australia, suited to our particular climate and temperatures, combined with the strength and durability and waterproofing needed to help us enjoy the great out doors in a very comfortable manner.

That is not always the case with fully imported canvas.

A good Australian manufactured canvas is legendary and for very good reasons, it’s developed specifically for Australian conditions.

Australia has been producing canvas for canopies, tents, swags, and multitudes of outdoor covers and camping gear for many years and as a nation, we generally like to make sure as mentioned we get the most out of our investment.

There is now product being imported in to the Australian market in the RV industry with canvas not produced here in Australia. Despite spending a lot of time researching on the Internet, the only product specifications I have found so far on it is it’s a poly/cotton blend, but documentation on the percentages, shrinkages, tear resistances and breaking forces, etc are a little hard to ascertain.

We have yet to see how long this canvas maintains its integrity under our normal harsh Australian conditions. From what has been seen so far the quality of the canvas does not match what is produced here in Australia, and this opinion is not based on a patriotic bias but one from a number of manufacturers that have a long history of experience in the canvas industry working with the product.

As with most things in this fast moving world we live in Technology has now caught up even with canvas.... The new breed of canvas is 10 or 11oz poly/cotton canvas. This starts life as an 8oz base cloth but once the pigment proofing process occurs it then becomes a 10 or 11oz. There are 2 manufacturers in Australia who use the base cloth as a double wrap, double weft. That is two strands woven one-way, two strands woven the other. This makes the end product, being tightly woven, just as strong and durable as the 15oz, just as waterproof as the 15oz but really half the weight. This particular cloth knocks on the head the “ heavier is better” belief, because it’s not necessarily so!

In the old days the heavier the canvas the better the wearing capabilities but having this knowledge now may prompt some of the old school to 54

So you have taken delivery of your new camper trailer or slide on camper and are excited to get going. Before heading off on your trip with your new camper, it is wise as mentioned, to proof your canvas, as the canvas is not an un-touched piece of fabric, but a product that has been converted from a piece of cloth to a canvas structure.

The final product should be wet down or proofed as it is called, dried between applications, and repeated 3 times. This is where the cotton component will take up the water, swell and sit in to place, this is especially important in the areas where the needle has penetrated the cloth. This is the best way to proof your canvas especially when combined with proper manufacturing of the cloth by using lock seams in positions where extreme exposure to the elements is likely.

Despite the Australian manufacturers using an anti mildew agents in the final preparations of their canvas, mildew and mould problems will occur if you fold your canvas product away wet or damp. If you have packed your camper away damp/wet there is a general rule of thumb, that you have approx 36 hours to open it up again and air your canvas, even if the weather is still inclement. To open the camper or to expose the canvas to proper ventilation will prevent the mould process taking hold, but in saying that mildew can start while the camper is set up for no apparent reason as well.

Unfortunately mould is very destructive to the cotton component to the canvas as well as other materials, and will decrease the life expectancy of the canvas and may impinge on its integrity.

So what to do if mould is found? Open the canvas product to its full extent, place in a spray bottle, a mixture of bleach and water, 1:20 ratio, one being the bleach to 20 parts water. Spray the affected area and either hose off immediately or let dry and gently brush off with soft brush, do not have a stronger concentration of bleach.

If you have enjoyed a camping spot amongst many of our bird life and they have left their calling cards on your roofs, then these droppings will also have an effect on the canvas, it is wise to remove them at your earliest convenience, by simple water and a gentle brush. DO NOT use detergents on your canvas, as this will remove the water proofing aspects of your canvas.

55

Dirty marks and stains on your camper? These will be a normal part of your camping adventures, those who will accept this won’t worry about a camper demonstrating where its been, but it is wise to hose down your camper when you get home, this will remove any major dirt stains, or animal droppings, or leaves left on your roof which will decompose and again degrade the canvas.

Gently brush off after drying any remaining stains with a soft hearth like brush, but do not in any circumstances, as mentioned before, use detergents, this will remove the water proofing agents. If by chance you have done this prior to reading this article, you may need to re-spray with a waterproofing agent, the area you have used detergent on to regain its waterproofing integrity.

Finally, when storing your camper away, make sure you’re 100% positive the canvas is thoroughly dry, and if you’re in a position to leave the cover slightly ajar, this may help with preventing mildew in high humid areas.

There is no better return on your investment than buying a great quality canvas. Follow these steps to look after it and it will give you many years of wonderful memories, and you should be able to pass it on to the next generation.

Kw / rpm Power

n

Tra n smissio

ne E ngi

Fuel

D rive

Price

trai

n

OzRoamer Buyers Guide

Audi Q3 Q3 2.0TDI quattro

$49,925

AWD

D

2.0L TDI 4 Cyl

6 Speed Man

103 @ 4,200

Q3 2.0 TFSI quattro

$52,373

AWD

P

2.0L TSFI 4 Cyl

6 Speed Man

125 @ 6,200

Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro

$61,823

AWD

P

2.0L TSFI 4 Cyl

7 Speed Auto

155 @ 6,200

$69,236

AWD

D

2.0L TDI 4 Cyl

7 Speed Auto

125 @ 4,200

Audi Q5 Q5 2.0 TDI quattro Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro

$71,117

AWD

P

2.0L TSFI 4 Cyl

7 Speed Auto

155 @ 4,300

Q5 3.0 TDI quattro

$83,821

AWD

D

3.0L TDI V6

7 Speed Auto

176 @ 4,000

$99,572

AWD

D

3.0L TDI 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

180 @ 3,800

Audi Q7 Q7 3.0 TDI quattro Q7 3.0 TFSI quattro

$105,032

AWD

P

3.0L TFSI 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

245 @ 5,500

Q7 4.2 TDI quattro

$140,312

AWD

D

4.2L TDI V8

8 Speed Auto

250 @ 4,000

Q7 V12 TDI quattro

$275,132

AWD

D

6.0L V12 TDI

8 Speed Auto

368 @ 3,750

X1 xDrive20d

$60,971

AWD

D

2.0L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

135 @ 4,000

X1 xDrive28i

$65,091

AWD

P

2.0L i 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

180 @ 5,000

X3 xDrive 20d

$70,266

AWD

D

2.0L TD 4 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

135 @ 4,000

X3 xDrive 20i

$67,071

AWD

P

2.0L i 4 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

135 @ 5,000

BMW X1

BMW X3

X3 xDrive 28i

$81,810

AWD

P

3.0Li 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

190 @ 6,600

X3 xDrive 30d

$85,487

AWD

D

3.0L TD 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

190 @ 4,000

BMW X5 X5 xDrive 30d

$102,391

AWD

D

3.0L TD 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

180 @ 4,000

X5 xDrive 35i

$114,780

AWD

P

3.0Li 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

225 @ 5,800

X5 xDrive 40d Sport

$124,652

AWD

D

3.0L TD 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

225 @ 4,400

X5 xDrive 50i Sport

$146,386

AWD

P

4.4Li 8 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

300 @ 5,500

$47,760

AWD

P

3.7L V6

4 Speed Auto

151 @ 5,200

$68,646

AWD

D

2.7L V6 CRD

6 Speed Auto

140 @ 4,000

$47,371

4WD

D

2.2L TD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

110 @ 3,700

Dodge Nitro Nitro SXT Ford SZ Territory Territory Titanium AWD Ford Ranger Ute Ranger XL 4X4 CC Ranger XLT 4X4 CC

$60,516

4WD

D

3.2L TD 5 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

147 @ 3,000

Ranger Wildtrak 4X4 CC

$65,456

4WD

D

3.2L TD 5 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

147 @ 3,000

56

Ability

Oz R oamer Rati ng /20

Off R

ng Towi

oad

Ability

ng rati ball Tow

Capacity Tow

Fuel L AD R /100Km Comb

Star GVG 5

km CO2 g/

Safety 5 Star ANCA P

/ rpm Nm Torque

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 320 @ 2,500

5 Star

137

3 1/2 Star

5.2L

1800kg

180kg

5

4

9

280 @ 4,200

5 Star

174

3 1/2 Star

7.3L

1800kg

180kg

6

4

10

300 @ 4,900

5 Star

179

3 1/2 Star

7.7L

1800kg

180kg

6

4

10

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 350 @ 1,750

5 Star

184

3 1/2 Star

7.0L

2,000kg

200kg

7

4

11

350 @ 1,500

5 Star

197

3 1/2 Star

8.5L

2,000kg

200kg

7

4

11

500 @ 1,500

5 Star

199

3 1/2 Star

7.5L

2,000kg

200kg

7

4

11

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 550 @ 1,750

4 Star

205

2 1/2 Star

7.8L

3,200kg

300kg

8

4

12

440 @ 2,900

4 Star

249

3 Star

10.7L

3,200kg

300kg

8

4

12

800 @ 1,750

4 Star

242

2 1/2 Star

9.2L

3,500kg

300kg

8

4

12

1,000 @ 1,750

4 Star

298

2 Star

11.3L

3,500kg

300kg

8

4

12

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 380 @ 1,750

5 Star

145

3 1/2 Star

5.5L

2,000kg

200kg

7

4

11

350 @ 1,250

5 Star

182

3 1/2 Star

7.8L

2,000kg

200kg

7

4

11

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 380 @ 1,750

5 Star

147

3 1/2 Star

5.6L

2,400kg

240kg

8

4

12

270 @ 1,250

5 Star

175

4 Star

7.5L

2,400kg

240kg

8

4

12

310 @ 2,600

5 Star

175

4 Star

7.5L

2,400kg

240kg

8

4

12

560 @ 1,500

5 Star

159

3 1/2 Star

6L

2,400kg

240kg

8

4

12

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 540 @ 1,750

5 Star

195

3 1/2 Star

7.4L

2,700kg

270kg

8

4

12

400 @ 1,200

5 Star

236

3 1/2 Star

10.1L

2,700kg

270kg

8

4

12

600 @ 1,500

5 Star

198

3 1/2 Star

7.5L

2,700kg

270kg

8

4

12

600 @ 1,750

5 Star

292

3 Star

12.5L

2,700kg

270kg

8

4

12

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 314 @ 4,000

N/A

224

3 Star

12.4L

2,270kg

227kg

7

5

12

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 1yr Roadside Assistance 440 @ 1,900

5 Star

236

2 1/2 Star

9.0L

2,700kg

270kg

8

6

14

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 1yr Roadside Assistance 375 @ 1,500

5 Star

216

2 1/2 Star

8.1L

3,350kg

335kg

7

8

15

470 @ 1,500

5 Star

246

2 Star

9.4L

3,350kg

335kg

9

8

17

470 @ 1,500

5 Star

246

2 Star

9.4L

3,350kg

335kg

9

8

17

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

57

Kw / rpm Power

n

Tra n smissio

ne E ngi

Fuel

D rive

Price

trai

n

OzRoamer Buyers Guide

Holden Series II Captiva Captiva 7 LX

$46,794

AWD

P

3.0L V6

6 Speed Auto

190 @ 6,900

Captiva 7 CX

$43,704

AWD

D

2.2L CRD 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

135 @ 3,800

Holden Colorado Colorado 4X4 CC LX

$51,147

4WD

D

2.8L CRD 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

132 @ 3,800

Colorado 4X4 CC LTZ

$56,922

4WD

D

2.8L CRD 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

132 @ 3,800

Honda CRV CRV Sport

$36,324

AWD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

125 @ 5,800

CRV Luxury

$42,813

AWD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

125 @ 5,800

ix35 2.4 Elite

$36,450

AWD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

130 @ 6,000

ix35 2.2 Highlander

$41,703

AWD

D

2.0L CRDi 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

135 @ 4,000

Sante Fe GDI Active

$41,085

AWD

P

2.4L GDI 4 cyl

6 Speed man

141 @ 6,300

Sante Fe Highlander

$54,613

AWD

D

2.2L CRDi 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

145 @ 3,800

D Max LS

$48,489

4WD

D

3.0L CRD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

130 @ 3,600

D Max LS-U

$50,064

4WD

D

3.0L CRD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

130 @ 3,600

Patriot Sport

$32,487

4WD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

125 @ 6,000

Patriot Limited

$37,122

4WD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

CVT Auto

125 @ 6,000

Hyundai ix35

Hyundai Sante Fe

Isuzu

Jeep Patriot

Jeep Wrangler Wrangler Sport

$37,999

4WD

P

3.8L V6

5 Speed Auto

209 @ 6,350

Wrangler Sport Diesel

$43,371

4WD

D

2.8L CRD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

147 @ 3,600

Wrangler Rubicon

$49,607

4WD

P

3.8L V6

6 Speed man

209 @ 6,350

$42,043

4WD

P

3.8L V6

5 Speed Auto

209 @ 6,350

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Wrangler Unlimited Sport Wrangler Unlimited Sport Diesel

$47,557

4WD

D

2.8L CRD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

147 @ 3,600

Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon

$52,807

4WD

P

3.8L V6

6 Speed man

209 @ 6,350

Jeep Cherokee Cherokee Sport

$34,547

4WD

P

3.7L V6

4 Speed Auto

151 @ 5,200

Cherokee Limited Petrol

$41,757

4WD

D

2.8L CRD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

147 @ 3,600

58

Ability

Oz R oamer Rati ng /20

Off R

ng Towi

oad

Ability

ng rati ball Tow

Capacity Tow

Fuel L AD R /100Km Comb

Star GVG 5

km CO2 g/

Safety 5 Star ANCA P

/ rpm Nm Torque

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 288 @ 5,800

4 Star

268

3 Star

11.3L

1,700kg

N/S

6

5

11

400 @ 2,000

4 Star

214

3 Star

8.1L

1,700kg

N/S

6

5

11

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 440 @ 2,000

5 Star

209

2 1/2 Star

7.8L

3,500kg

350kg

10

8

18

470 @ 2,000

5 Star

212

2 1/2 Star

8.1L

3,500kg

350kg

10

8

18

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 218 @ 4,200

4 Star

237

3 1/2 Star

10L

1,200kg

120kg

5

4

9

218 @ 4,200

4 Star

237

3 1/2 Star

10L

1,200kg

120kg

5

4

9

Warranty 5yr / Unlimited Km 1yr Roadside Assistance 227 @ 4,000

5 Star

219

4 Star

9.2L

1,600kg

140kg

6

6

12

392 @ 1,800

5 Star

198

3 1/2 Star

7.5L

1,600kg

140kg

6

6

12

Warranty 5yr / Unlimited Km 1yr Roadside Assistance 424 @ 4,200

5 Star

209

3 1/2 Star

9.0L

2,500kg

100kg

6

7

13

436 @1,800

5 Star

192

3 Star

7.3l

2,000kg

100kg

5

7

12

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km yr Roadside Assistance 380 @ 1,800

4 Star

214

2 1/2 Star

8.1L

3,00kg

300kg

9

8

17

380 @ 1,800

4 Star

214

2 1/2 Star

8.1L

3,00kg

300kg

9

8

17

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 220 @ 4,500

N/A

196

4 Star

8.5L

1,500kg

150kg

6

5

11

220 @ 4,500

N/A

210

3 1/2 Star

9.1L

1,500kg

150kg

6

5

11

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 347 @ 4,300

N/A

263

3 1/2 Star

10.4L

1,600kg

160kg

6

9

15

410 @ 2,200

N/A

227

2 1/2 Star

7.7L

1,600kg

160kg

6

9

15

347 @ 4,300

N/A

283

3 1/2 Star

11.8L

1,600kg

160kg

6

10

16

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 347 @ 4,300

N/A

256

3 1/2 Star

11.7L

2,300kg

170kg

7

9

16

410 @ 2,200

N/A

227

2 1/2 Star

7.7L

2,300kg

170kg

7

9

16

347 @ 4,300

N/A

288

3 1/2 Star

12.1L

2,300kg

170kg

7

10

17

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 314 @ 4,000

N/A

293

3 Star

12.4L

2,270kg

270kg

7

8

15

460 @ 1,600

N/A

206

2 1/2 Star

8.9L

2,279kg

270kg

7

8

15

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

59

Kw / rpm Power

n

Tra n smissio

ne E ngi

Fuel

D rive

Price

trai

n

OzRoamer Buyers Guide

Jeep Grand Cherokee Grand Cherokee Laredo

$50,047

4WD

P

3.6L V6

5 Speed Auto

210 @ 6,350

Grand Cherokee Overland

$76,561

4WD

D

5.7L V6

5 Speed Auto

177 @ 4,000

KIA Sportage Sportage SLI

$37,009

AWD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

130 @ 6,000

Sportage Platinum

$45,249

AWD

D

2.0L CRDi 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

135 @ 4,000

KIA Sorento Sorento SLI

$48,357

AWD

D

2.2L CRDi 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

145 @ 3,800

Sorento Platinum

$55,077

AWD

D

2.2L CRDi 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

145 @ 3,800

$50,566

AWD

D

2.2L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

110 @ 4,000

Land Rover Freelander 2 Freelander 2 TD4 Freelander 2 XS

$55,816

AWD

P

3.2L I6 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

171 @ 6,300

Freelander 2 HSE

$72,475

AWD

D

2.2L DT 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

140 @ 3,500

Land Rover Defender Defender 90

$50,566

4WD

D

2.4L DT 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

90 @ 3,500

Defender 110

$55,501

4WD

D

2.4L DT 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

90 @ 3,500

Land Rover Discovery 4 Discovery 4 TDV6

$76,091

4WD

D

2.7L TD V6

6 Speed Auto

140 @ 4,000

Discovery 4 SDV6 HSE

$104,126

4WD

D

3.0L TD V6

6 Speed Auto

180 @ 4,000

Discovery 4 V8

$140,141

4WD

P

5.0L V8

6 Speed Auto

276 @ 6,500

Lexus RX RX 350 Sport Luxury

$102,187

AWD

P

3.5L V6

6 Speed Auto

204 @ 6,200

RX 450h Sport Luxury

$109,537

AWD

P

3.6L V6 Hybrid

CVT Auto

183 @ 6,000

$151,012

4WD

P

5.7L V8

6 Speed Auto

270 @ 5,600

CX5 Maxx Sport

$40,079

AWD

P

2.0L 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

113 @ 6,000

CX5 Grand Touring

$51,114

AWD

D

2.2L D 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

129 @ 4,500

BT-50 XT

$45,274

4WD

D

3.L DT 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

147 @ 3,000

BT-50 GT

$54,814

4WD

D

3.0L DT 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

147 @ 3,000

Lexus LX LX 570 Sport Luxury Mazda CX5

Mazda BT-50

60

Ability

Oz R oamer Rati ng /20

Off R

ng Towi

oad

Ability

ng rati ball Tow

Capacity Tow

Fuel L AD R /100Km Comb

Star GVG 5

km CO2 g/

Safety 5 Star ANCA P

/ rpm Nm Torque

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 347 @ 4,300

4 Star

265

3 star

11.4L

2,260kg

227kg

8

9

17

550 @ 1,800

4 Star

327

3 star

8.3L

3,500kg

350kg

10

9

19

Warranty 5yr / Unlimited Km 227 @ 4,000

5 Star

221

4 Star

9.2L

1,600kg

200kg

7

6

13

392 @ 1,800

5 Star

198

3 1/2 Star

7.5L

1,600kg

200kg

7

6

13

Warranty 5yr / Unlimited Km 422 @ 1,800

5 Star

177

3 Star

6.7L

2,500kg

120kg

6

7

13

436 @ 1,800

5 Star

249

3 Star

7.4L

2,000kg

120kg

6

7

13

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 420 @ 1,750

5 Star

174

3 Star

6.6L

2,000kg

200kg

7

8

15

317 @ 3,200

5 Star

255

3 Star

10.7L

2,000kg

200kg

7

8

15

420 @ 1,750

5 Star

185

3 Star

7.0L

2,000kg

200kg

7

8

15

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 360 @ 2,000

N/A

295

2 Star

10.0L

3,500kg

250kg

8

10

18

360 @ 2,000

N/A

291

2 Star

11.0L

3,500kg

250kg

8

10

18

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 440 @ 1,900

4 Star

270

2 Star

10.2L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

600 @ 2,000

4 Star

244

2 1/2 Star

9.3L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

510 @ 3,500

4 Star

324

2 1/2 Star

13.9L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

Warranty 4yr / 100,000 Km 4yr Roadside Assistance 346 @ 4,700

N/A

254

3 Star

10.8L

1,400kg

140kg

6

3

9

317 @ 4,800

N/A

150

5 Star

6.4L

1,500kg

150kg

6

3

9

Warranty 4yr / 100,000 Km 4yr Roadside Assistance 530 @ 3,200

4 Star

350

2 1/2 Star

14.8L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 198 @ 4,000

5 Star

148

4 Star

6.9L

1,800kg

150kg

7

6

13

420 @ 2,000

5 Star

149

3 1/2 Star

5.7L

1,800kg

150kg

7

6

13

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 470 @ 1,750

5 Star

235

2 1/2 Star

8.9L

3,350kg

335kg

9

8

17

470 @ 1,750

5 Star

246

2 1/2 Star

9.2L

3,350kg

335kg

9

8

17

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

61

Kw / rpm Power

n

Tra n smissio

ne E ngi

Fuel

D rive

Price

trai

n

OzRoamer Buyers Guide

Mercedes Benz ML ML 250 BlueTEC

$89,327

AWD

D

2.1L CDi 4 Cyl

7 Speed Auto

150 @ 4,000

ML 350 Blue EFFICIENCY

$108,220

AWD

P

3.5L V6

7 Speed Auto

190 @ 6,000

ML 350 BlueTEC

$108,220

AWD

D

3.0L CDi V6

7 Speed Auto

170 @ 3,800

ML 500

$129,221

AWD

P

5.5L V8

7 Speed Auto

300 @ 6,000

Mercedes Benz GL GL 350 CDI L

$142,967

4WD

D

3.0L CDi V6

7 Speed Auto

195 @ 3,800

GL 450 CDi

$183,617

4WD

D

4.0L CDi V8

7 Speed Auto

225 @ 3,600

GL 500 L

$187,180

4WD

P

5.5L V8

7 Speed Auto

285 @ 6,000

Mercedes Benz G G 350 BlueTEC

$173,091

4WD

D

3.0L BlueTEC V6

7 Speed Auto

155 @ 3,400

G 55 AMG

$232,207

4WD

P

5.5L V8

5 Speed Auto

373 @ 6,100

$45,110

AWD

P

1.6L 4 cyl

6 Speed man

82 @ 4,000

ASX 4WD Aspire

$39,201

AWD

D

1.8L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

110 @ 4,000

ASX 4WD Aspire

$349,791

AWD

P

2.0L 4 Cyl

CVT Auto

110 @ 6,000

Outlander XLS

$45,285

AWD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

CVT Auto

125 @ 6,000

Outlander VRX

$57,714

AWD

P

3.0L V6

6 Speed Auto

169 @ 6,250

MINI Countryman Cooper D ALL4 Countryman Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Challenger Challenger LS

$50,679

4WD

D

2.5L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

131 @ 4,000

Challenger XLS

$63,120

4WD

D

2.5L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

131 @ 4,000

Mitsubishi Pajero Pajero GLS

$66,391

4WD

D

3.2L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

147 @ 3,800

Pajero Exceed

$84,118

4WD

D

3.2L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

147 @ 3,800

Mitsubishi Triton Triton GLX

$46,825

4WD

D

2.5L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

131 @ 4,000

Triton GLXR

$56,979

4WD

D

2.5L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

131 @ 4,000

Nissan Pathfinder

62

Pathfinder STL

$61,057

4WD

D

2.5l TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

140 @ 4,000

Pathfinder TI 550

$82,067

4WD

P

3.0L TD V6

7 Speed Auto

170 @ 3,750

Ability

Oz R oamer Rati ng /20

Off R

ng Towi

oad

Ability

ng rati ball Tow

Capacity Tow

Fuel L AD R /100Km Comb

Star GVG 5

km CO2 g/

Safety 5 Star ANCA P

/ rpm Nm Torque

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 500 @ 1,400

5 Star

168

3 Star

6.4L

3,500kg

225kg

7

7

14

620 @ 2,400

5 Star

198

3 1/2 Star

7.3L

3,500kg

225kg

7

7

14

540 @ 1,600

5 Star

249

3 Star

9.5L

3,500kg

225kg

7

7

14

600 @ 2,800

5 Star

287

3 1/2 Star

12.9L

3,500kg

225kg

7

7

14

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 620 @ 1,600

5 Star

242

3 Star

9.2L

3,500kg

273kg

8

8

16

700 @ 2,000

5 Star

313

2 Star

11.8L

3,500kg

273kg

8

8

16

530 @ 2,800

5 Star

322

3 1/2 Star

13.5L

3,500kg

273kg

8

8

16

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 540 @ 1,600

N/A

295

2 1/2 Star

11.2L

2,850kg

285kg

7

8

15

700 @ 2,750

N/A

372

3 Star

15.9L

3,500kg

350kg

10

8

18

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 270 @ 1,750

5 Star

129

3 1/2 Star

5.3L

N/S

N/S

4

4

Warranty 5yr / 100,000 Km 5yr Roadside Assistance 300 @ 2,000

5 Star

155

3 1/2 Star

5.9L

1,050kg

105kg

5

5

10

197 @ 4,200

5 Star

192

3 1/2 Star

8.1L

1,050kg

105kg

5

5

10

Warranty 5yr / 100,000 Km 5yr Roadside Assistance 226 @ 4,100

4 Star

222

3 Star

9.3L

1,500kg

150kg

6

6

12

291 @ 3,750

4 Star

247

3 1/2 Star

10.4L

1,600kg

160kg

6

6

12

Warranty 5yr / 100,000 Km 5yr Roadside Assistance 400 @ 2,000

4 star

219

2 1/2 Star

8.3L

3,000kg

300kg

8

9

17

350 @ 1,800

4 Star

259

2 1/2 Star

9.8L

3,000kg

300kg

8

9

17

Warranty 5yr / 100,000 Km 5yr Roadside Assistance 441 @ 2,000

4 Star

239

2 1/2 Star

9.0L

3,000kg

250kg

7

10

17

441 @ 2,000

4 Star

239

2 1/2 Star

9.0L

3,000kg

250kg

7

10

17

Warranty 5yr / 100,000 Km 5yr Roadside Assistance 400 @ 2,000

4 Star

215

2 1/2 Star

9.3L

3,000kg

300kg

8

8

16

350 @ 1,800

4 Star

217

2 1/2 Star

9.6L

3,000kg

300kg

8

8

16

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 450 @ 2,000

4 Star

224

2 1/2 Star

8.5L

3,000kg

300kg

8

7

15

550 @ 1,750

4 Star

246

2 1/2 Star

9.3L

3,000kg

300kg

8

7

15

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers 63

Kw / rpm Power

n

Tra n smissio

ne E ngi

Fuel

D rive

Price

trai

n

OzRoamer Buyers Guide

Nissan X-Trail X-Trail STL

$42,253

4WD

P

2.5L 4 Cyl

CVT Auto

125 @ 6,000

X-Trail TL

$49,220

4WD

D

2.0L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

127 @ 3,750

Nissan Patrol Patrol TI

$76,292

4WD

D

3.0L TD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

118 @ 3,200

Patrol TI

$79,442

4WD

P

4.8L 6 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

185 @ 4,800

$61,093

4WD

D

3.0L TD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

118 @ 3,400

Navara ST-X

$61,582

4WD

D

3.0L V6

7 Speed Auto

170 @ 3,750

Navara ST-X 550

$67,882

4WD

D

3.0L V6

7 Speed Auto

170 @ 3,750

$42,983

AWD

D

2.2L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed DSG

115 @ 4,000

$120,291

4WD

P

3.6L V6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

220 @ 6,300

Nissan Patrol Cab Chassis Patrol Cab Chassis ST Nissan Navara

Peugeot 4007 4007 HDI Porsche Cayenne Cayenne Cayenne Diesel

$121,341

4WD

D

3.0L TD 6 Cyl

8 Speed Auto

180 @ 4,000

Cayenne S

$164,961

4WD

P

4.8L V8

8 Speed Auto

294 @ 6,500

Range Rover Sport Sport SDV6

$111,043

4WD

D

3.0L TTD 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

180 @ 4,000

Sport V8 Luxury

$151,993

4WD

P

5.0L V8

6 Speed Auto

276 @ 6,500

Sport V8 Super Charge

$174,568

4WD

P

5.0L V8 SC

6 Speed Auto

375 @ 6,500

Range Rover Vogue Vogue TDV8 Luxury

$189,700

4WD

D

4.4L TD V8

8 Speed Auto

230 @ 4,000

Vouge V8

$165,754

4WD

P

5.0L V8

6 Speed Auto

276 @ 6,500

Vouge Autobiography

$253,434

4WD

P

5.0L V8 SC

6 Speed Auto

375 @ 6,500

$48,634

AWD

P

2.5L 4 cyl

CVT Auto

126 @ 6,000

$44,703

AWD

D

2.0L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

103 @ 4,200

Actyon Sport Ute Tradie

$31,490

4WD

D

2.0L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

114 @ 3,400

Actyon Sport Ute SPR

$32,990

4WD

D

2.0L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

104 @ 4,000

Renault Koleos Koleos Privilege Skoda Octavia Scout Octavia Scout Ssangyong Actyon Sport

64

Ability

Oz R oamer Rati ng /20

Off R

ng Towi

oad

Ability

ng rati ball Tow

Capacity Tow

Fuel L AD R /100Km Comb

Star GVG 5

km CO2 g/

Safety 5 Star ANCA P

/ rpm Nm Torque

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 226 @ 4,400

4 Star

214

3 1/2 Star

9.1L

2,000kg

200kg

7

7

14

360 @ 2,000

4 Star

191

3 1/2 Star

7.2 L

2,000kg

200kg

7

7

14

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 380 @ 2,000

3 Star

288

1 1/2 Star

10.9L

3,200kg

320kg

8

10

18

420 @ 3,600

3 Star

393

1 1/2 Star

16.4L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 380 @ 2,400

3 Star

329

1 1/2 Star

12.5L

3,200kg

320kg

9

9

18

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 550 @ 1,750

4 Star

246

2 1/2 Star

8.5L

3,000kg

300kg

8

8

16

550 @ 1,750

4 Star

246

2 1/2 Star

8.5L

3,000kg

300kg

8

8

16

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 380 @ 2,000

N/A

192

3 1/2 Star

7.3L

2,000kg

160kg

7

6

13

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 400 @ 3,000

N/A

236

3 Star

9.9L

3,500kg

N/S

8

8

16

550 @ 2,000

N/A

189

3 1/2 Star

7.4L

3,500kg

N/S

8

8

16

500 @ 3,500

N/A

251

3 Star

10.7L

3,500kg

N/S

8

8

16

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 600 @ 2,000

4 Star

243

2 1/2 Star

9.2 L

3,500kg

350kg

10

8

18

510 @ 3,500

4 Star

324

2 1/2 Star

13.9L

3,500kg

350kg

10

8

18

625 @ 5,500

4 Star

348

2 1/2 Star

14.9L

3,500kg

350kg

10

8

18

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 700 @ 3,000

4 Star

253

2 1/2 Star

9.4L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

510 @ 3,500

4 Star

326

2 1/2 Star

14.0L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

625 @ 5,500

4 Star

348

2 1/2 Star

14.9L

3,500kg

250kg

8

8

16

Warranty 5yr / Unlimited Km 5yr Roadside Assistance 226 @ 4,400

5 Star

228

3 1/2 Star

9.5L

2,000kg

160kg

6

6

12

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 320 @ 2,500

4 Star

160

3 1/2 Star

6.1L

1,600kg

75kg

4

6

10

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 360 @ 1,500

4 Star

225

2 1/2 Star

8.5L

2,300kg

230kg

7

6

13

310 @ 2,700

4 Star

225

2 1/2 Star

8.5L

2,300kg

230kg

7

6

13

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

65

Kw / rpm Power

n

Tra n smissio

ne E ngi

Fuel

D rive

Price

trai

n

OzRoamer Buyers Guide

Ssangyong Rexton Rexton RX270 Xdi

$39,990

AWD

D

2.7L TD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

125 @ 4,000

$32,990

AWD

D

2.0L DT 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

129 @ 4,000

Ssangyong Korando Korando SX Subaru Forester Forester XT

$44,185

AWD

P

2.5L H 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

169 @ 5,200

Forester S-Edition

$55,813

AWD

P

2.5L TH 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

193 @ 6,000

Forester 2.0 D

$40,718

AWD

D

2.0L TDH 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

108 @ 3,600

Outback 2.5i Premium

$47,275

AWD

P

2.5L H 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

123 @ 5,600

Outback 3.6 R Premium SN

$63,023

AWD

P

3.6L H 6

5 Speed Auto

191 @ 5,600

Outback 2.0 Diesel

$45,353

AWD

D

2.0L TDH 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

110 @ 3,600

Jimny Sierra

$18,990

4WD

P

1.3L 4 Cyl

4 Speed man

62 @ 6,000

Jimny Sierra

$20,990

4WD

P

1.3L 4 Cyl

4 Speed Auto

62 @ 6,000

$23,990

4WD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

122 @ 6,000

Subaru Outback

Suzuki Jimny Sierra

Suzuki Grand Vitara Grand Vitara 3 door Grand Vitara Sport

$34,490

4WD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

122 @ 6,000

Grand Vitara Diesel

$38,990

4WD

D

1.9L TD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

95 @ 3,750

$37,901

AWD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

125 @ 6,000

Toyota Rav 4 Rav 4 Cruiser Rav 4 Cruiser L

$49,407

AWD

P

2.4L 4 Cyl

4 Speed Auto

125 @ 6,000

Rav 4 ZR6

$54,657

AWD

P

3.5L V6

5 Speed Auto

201 @ 6,200

$5,092

4WD

P

4.0L 6 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

200 @ 5,600

Kluger KXR

$48,882

AWD

P

3.5L V6

5 Speed Auto

201 @ 2,600

Kluger Grande

$71,536

AWD

P

3.5L V6

5 Speed Auto

201 @ 2,600

$74,156

4WD

D

3.0L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

127 @ 3,400

Toyota FJ Cruiser FJ Cruiser Toyota Kluger

Toyota Prado Pardo ZR 3 Door Prado GXL

$66,806

4WD

P

4.0L V6

6 Speed man

202 @ 5,600

Prado Kakadu

$99,356

4WD

D

3.0L DiD 4 Cyl

5 Speed Auto

127 @ 3,400

66

Ability

Oz R oamer Rati ng /20

Off R

ng Towi

oad

Ability

ng rati ball Tow

Capacity Tow

Fuel L AD R /100Km Comb

Star GVG 5

km CO2 g/

Safety 5 Star ANCA P

/ rpm Nm Torque

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 340 @ 2,400

N/A

242

2 1/2 Star

9.1L

2,300kg

230kg

7

7

14

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 360 @ 3,000

N/A

169

N/A

6.4L

2,000kg

203kg

6

6

12

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 320 @ 2,800

5 Star

248

3 1/2 Star

10.5L

1,600kg

160kg

6

7

13

347 @ 4,800

5 Star

248

3 1/2 Star

10.5L

1,600kg

160kg

6

7

13

350 @ 2,400

5 Star

268

3 1/2 Star

6.4L

1,600kg

160kg

6

7

13

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 229 @ 4,000

5 Star

209

3 1/2 Star

8.9L

1,500kg

150kg

6

6

12

350 @ 4,400

5 Star

242

3 1/2 Star

10.3L

1,800kg

180kg

7

6

13

350 @ 2,400

5 Star

168

3 1/2 Star

6.4L

1,700kg

170kg

7

6

13

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 110 @ 4,100

N/A

174

3 1/2 Star

7.3L

1,300kg

75kg

4

9

13

110 @ 4,100

N/A

184

3 1/2 Star

7.8L

1,300kg

75kg

4

9

13

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 225 @ 4,000

4 Star

209

3 1/2 Star

8.8L

1,600kg

75kg

4

9

13

225 @ 4,000

4 Star

209

3 1/2 Star

8.8L

1,850kg

150kg

6

8

14

300 @ 2,000

4 Star

195

3 1/2 Star

7.6L

1,850kg

150kg

6

8

14

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 224 @ 4,000

4 Star

213

3 1/2 Star

9.1L

1,500kg

150kg

6

6

12

224 @ 4,000

4 Star

213

3 1/2 Star

9.1L

1,500kg

150kg

6

6

12

330 @ 4,700

4 Star

246

3 1/2 Star

10.5L

1,900kg

190kg

7

6

13

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 380 @ 4,400

N/A

197

3 1/2 Star

11.4L

2,250kg

225kg

7

10

17

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 337 @ 4,700

5 Star

271

3 Star

11.6L

2,000kg

200kg

7

6

13

337 @ 4,700

5 Star

271

3 Star

11.6L

2,000kg

200kg

7

6

13

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 410 @ 2,800

4 Star

225

2 1/2 Star

8.3L

3,000kg

250kg

8

10

18

381 @ 4,400

4 Star

306

3 Star

13.0L

2,500kg

250kg

7

10

17

410 @ 2,800

4 Star

225

2 1/2 Star

8.5L

2,500kg

250kg

7

10

17

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

67

Kw / rpm Power

n

Tra n smissio

ne E ngi

Fuel

D rive

Price

trai

n

OzRoamer Buyers Guide

Toyota Landcruiser 200 Landcruiser 200 GXL

$91,078

4WD

P

4.7L V8

5 Speed Auto

228 @ 5,400

Landcruiser 200 Sahara

$127,828

4WD

D

4.5L DiD V8

6 Speed Auto

195 @ 3,400

Toyota Hilux Hilux SR

$46,468

4WD

D

3.0L TD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

126 @ 3,600

Hilux SR5

$58,521

4WD

D

3.0L TD 4 Cyl

4 Speed Auto

126 @ 3,600

Hilux SR5

$58,521

4WD

P

4.0L 6 Cyl

4 Speed Auto

175 @ 5,200

Landcruiser 70 GXL Dual Cab Chassis $74,321

4WD

D

4.5L TD V8

5 Speed man

151 @ 3,400

Landcruiser 70 GXL Wagon

4WD

D

4.5L TD 4 Cyl

5 Speed man

151 @ 3,400

Toyota Landcruiser 70

$70,271

Volkswagen Tiguan Tiguan 103 TDi

$40,704

AWD

D

2.0L TD 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

103 @ 4,200

Tiguan 132 Tsi

$40,704

AWD

P

2.0L TSi 4 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

132 @ 4,300

$56,502

AWD

D

2.0L TDi 4 Cyl

6 Speed man

120 @ 4,000

$61,540

AWD

P

2.0L T 4 Cyl

6 Speed DSG

177 @ 5,500

Volkswagen Amarok Amarok Highline Volvo XC60 XC60 T5 XC60 D5

$68,890

AWD

D

2.4L TD 5 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

158 @ 4,000

XC60 T6

$75,596

AWD

P

3.0L T 6 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

224 @ 5,600

XC70 3.2

$69,831

AWD

P

3.2L T 6 cyl

6 Speed Auto

179 @ 6,400

XC70 D5

$70,466

AWD

D

2.4L TD 5 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

158 @ 4,000

XC90 3.2

$79,795

AWD

P

3.2L T 6 cyl

6 Speed Auto

179 @ 6,400

XC90 D5

$83,471

AWD

D

2.4L TD 5 Cyl

6 Speed Auto

147 @ 3,900

Volvo XC70

Volvo XC90

4WD is where the vehicle has a dual range transfer case i.e. high and low range. AWD is where the vehicle had a single range. We obviously have not covered every 4WD or AWD SUV however have selected models that show the range. If the only difference between models is cosmetic we have only rated one model in the range. **The price is the recommended drive away price based on a metropolitan Sydney location. It will vary depending upon your location and dealer circumstances and options fitted. All information is believed to be correct at the time of printing. However you should make your own

68

Ability

Oz R oamer Rati ng /20

Off R

ng Towi

oad

Ability

ng rati ball Tow

Capacity Tow

Fuel L AD R /100Km Comb

Star GVG 5

km CO2 g/

Safety 5 Star ANCA P

/ rpm Nm Torque

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 439 @ 3,400

4 Star

313

2 1/2 Star

14.5L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

650 @ 2,600

4 Star

273

2 Star

10.3L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 343 @ 3,400

4 Star

214

2 1/2 Star

8.1L

2,500kg

250kg

7

8

15

343 @ 3,400

4 Star

214

2 1/2 Star

8.1L

2,500kg

250kg

7

8

15

343 @ 4,800

4 Star

299

3 Star

12.6L

2,500kg

250kg

7

8

15

Warranty 3yr / 100,000 Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 430 @ 3,200

3 Star

304

2 Star

11.5L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

430 @ 3,200

4 Star

304

2 Star

11.5L

3,500kg

350kg

10

10

20

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 320 @ 2,500

5 Star

156

3 1/2 Star

6.5L

2,000kg

100kg

4

5

9

280 @ 1,700

5 Star

205

3 1/2 Star

8.8L

2,000kg

100kg

4

5

9

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 400 @ 2,500

5 Star

209

3 Star

7.9L

3,000kg

300kg

7

6

13

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 320 @ 5,000

5 Star

198

3 1/2 Star

8.7L

1,800kg

150kg

6

6

12

440 @ 1,500

5 Star

179

2 1/2 Star

6.8L

2,000kg

150kg

6

6

12

440 @ 4,800

5 Star

249

3 1/2 Star

10.5L

2,000kg

150kg

6

6

12

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 320 @ 3,200

5 Star

254

3 1/2 Star

10.6L

1,800kg

150kg

6

6

12

440 @ 1,500

5 Star

188

3 1/2 Star

6.9L

2,100kg

150kg

6

6

12

Warranty 3yr / Unlimited Km 3yr Roadside Assistance 320 @ 3,200

5 Star

254

3 1/2 Star

11.6L

2,250kg

180Kg

6

6

12

420 @ 1,900

5 Star

253

2 1/2 Star

9.6L

2,250kg

180Kg

6

6

12

enquiries and satisfy yourself of any information contained above before acting on it. OzRoamer Publications, OzRoamer Pty. Ltd. and Auto Alliance Group Pty. Ltd accepts no responsibility or liability for the information contained within. Safety Star Ratings are from www.ancap.com.au GVG Star ratings are from www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au Ratings may differ to the articles as they are written by different authors. Some Manufacturers eg: Nissan, require you to reduce the vehicles GVM for maximum tow ball rating.

Guide to Slide On Campers & Camper Trailers

69

HARD TOP RANGE

We’ve won awards every year since 2008!

We’ve come a long way since 1990!

And, in the last 5 years, we’ve been recognised and awarded for making the highest quality camper trailers in Australia.

Now we’re going to go further.

Everything we do meets a manufacturing standard we call ‘Rugged Refinement’. This means we make absolutely no compromises in build quality, ergonomic design and luxury fittings.

No matter where you take a Complete Campsite, you can rest secure in the knowledge that our trailers will make it easy for you to handle the harshest conditions, will be quick and easy to set up and

www.completecampsite.com.au

SOFT FLOOR RANGE

HARD FLOOR RANGE

We have bigger plans for the future! take down, and will give you all the comforts of a home from home.

And for greater peace of mind, we’ll back that up with a warranty and an after-sales service that is second to none.

If you’d like to know more about our range of soft floor, hard floor or hard top camper trailers, give Jodie or Grant a call on 1300 859 074 or visit us at: www.completecampsite.com.au

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TOWiN TiPs G

Uv u V

GuiDe 2011

Ove 4WD & r 35 suv revieW s

OuTb Traveack l TiPs

We ra 4WD a Te Over 150 fOr TOND suv’s WiNG a Off rO ND aD abil iTy

rrP $999

I ’m Nat , Graphic Designer & Art Director

uPcOm mODeiNG ls

The Dif f beTWe ereNce eN aW aND 4W D D 2011 |

issue 1

and I can help you with your Branding, Web Design, Brochure Design, Flyers, signage and much more.

Contact me any time on info@n ataliesing.com. au, 0404 808 090 or visit nataliesing.com.au