UNSEALED 4X4 ISSUE 006 by UNSEALED 4X4

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DU BES AL T U -CA S B UED TE S

TRALIA'S LLY AUS OFFICIA

No.1

* ZINE A G A M 4X4

SEMA 2014:

THE LATEST GEAR WHAT THEY DON’T TELL YOU ABOUT THE HIGH COUNTRY

4X4 CHRISTMAS

BUYER’S GUIDE

THE BEST 4X4 BEACHES &

HOW TO

DRIVE ON SAND

IS YOUR BULL BAR GOING TO BE

BANNED?

+ 10 Things Pat Callinan Hates?! About 4X4ing

ISSUE 006 0BITCOIN

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THE

ULTIMATE NISSA

N I W$150K

IZES R P F HO T R O W

S S E L E C I R + A P ESCAPE 4X4 WITH

4 X 4 R AN N M I L L A PAT C ENTER O T E HER CLICK

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AN ADVENTURE GIVEAWAY THE PRIZE POOL • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 X Nissan Patrol Cab Chassis ST. ARB 4X4 Accessories and installation 1 X Cub Camper Spacematic Drover 1 X Metalink GX Canopy. 2 X Recaro Expert M seats 1 X Nomad 3.5 Metre V Nose Punt. 1 X Redarc 108W Solar Blanket 1 X Yamaha EF2000is Generator 9 X Cooper ST Maxx tyres 9 X ATX Ledge Teflon-coated wheels Old Man Emu Suspension Warn Zeon 10-S Winch GME UHF Radio and Antenna 2X Maxtrax Hema HN7 Outback Touring Solutions drawers Out Of Town Longranger tank Century Batteries Wurton LED light bar Redarc BCDC & Towpro Enmach Industries PolyRV water tank Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures Pack

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GEAR NEWS Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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THE

MOUNT DARE

HOTEL IS FOR SALE

HAVE YOU ALWAYS DREAMED OF THROWING IT ALL AWAY TO RUN A PUB? HERE’S YOUR CHANCE!

Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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Are you looking to escape anything that resembles a normal day-to-day life, and live the dream of owning and operating an iconic and essential 4X4 landmark? You could, maybe, just maybe, throw it all away to run the Mount Dare Hotel. Right now, you have the chance to operate this legendary institution for free, for twelve months. The owner, Dave Cox, is offering up a 12 month trial to prospective new owners, without any obligation to buy. If you don’t like it, you simply pay your rent and walk. If you do like it and stay on, you get that previous year for free.

work as long and sustained hours as a publican, especially when it’s as remote as this one. Dave explains: “In one day I could be a barman, cook, book keeper, carpenter, plumber, electrician and a mechanic. A list of tasks for the day may not even get a look in as every day would bring new challenges, to be versatile and flexible is an understatement. Mix all of this together with being the local information centre, having to inform travellers of the local sights and track conditions as well.”

The job wouldn’t be easy. But don’t forget: if it was easy, it wouldn’t be worth it. It’s a calling that would be too Sitting on the edge of the Simpson Desert, and pretty damned close to the much for most. But for somebody out there, it’s the challenge of a lifetime. geographical centre of Australia, the Mount Dare Hotel is about as ‘Outback Interested? Call Peter Moore pub’ as you can get. Few professions on 0429 833 322.

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MITSUBI

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MITSUBISHI UNVE

THE ALL-NEW TR

ALMOST A DECADE IN THE MAKING, MITSUB THE WORLD A PEEK AT THE NEXT-GENERAT

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BISHI

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EILS

RITON

BISHI GIVES TION UTE

The Mitsubishi Triton has always been a reasonable choice for reasonable people in the market for a reasonable dual-cab ute. They have a history of decent reliability, they’re easy to drive and they’re good value – all-in-all, a solid vehicle. Though there’s always been a problem with the way it looked, as the cab just never quite felt connected to the rear tub, thanks to a ‘design feature’ called the J-line that left the ute looking unfinished. But with the all-new 2015 Triton, which was recently unveiled in Thailand, it’s finally come together. The distinctive Mitsubishi design features are still there, but it actually looks finished…and it actually looks quite good. Sure, it’s a bit futuristic, but considering the Triton tends to stick around for decade, they’re designing it just as much for the future as they are for now. It will most certainly age a lot better than the model that’s still on sale, which like the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey, left me confused as to why they’d think the relatively near future would look like that. Moving beyond the looks, the focus is on the all-new 2.4-litre turbodiesel power plant, which uses an aluminium block to save weight… which saves fuel, which is good. While it doesn’t produce earth-shattering figures (133kW, 430Nm), it does manage to melt fewer polar ice caps while putting a few hard-earned dollars back in your wallet. The workhorse 2.5-litre, synonymous with the Triton of yesteryear, is dead for most markets, though it will still be available in a few export markets.

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MITSUBI

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The all new 2.4-litre power plant uses an alloy block

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BISHI

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Mitsubishi will also offer single cab, and club cab variants of the vehicle to meet a variety of needs, both private and commercial. In a world of ever-looming costcutting, the Triton retains some familiarity for four-wheel drivers, and that’s a good thing. There’s a regular body-on-chassis frame, an LSD-equipped solid axle in the rear, and as much as 205mm of ground clearance; which isn’t huge, but it’s not bad either. Four-wheel drive and low range is accessed through a twisty, electronic knob in the cab, but we’re glad that it is present. There’s also the promise of corrosion-resistant steel in the cab and cargo tub, but we’ll let the beaches test that. At first glance, the interior of the Triton looks like a nice place to be. It’s new, but not massively

overhauled and shares a lot in common with the outgoing model. The availability of digital climate control, a massive 7-inch display and a rear backup camera goes a long way to reinforce Mitsubishi’s statement that the Triton combines the comfort of a passenger car, with the practicality of a ute. Also, If you’re the kind of person who thinks keys are difficult, a keyless operation system is standard. The announcement of the redesigned Triton comes a few months after Nissan’s announcement of the new Navara, which also launches next year. There’s also rumours of a new Toyota Hilux being unveiled shortly, which will certainly make the next year quite interesting for those in the market for a dual-cab ute. By Matt Scott

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HE VICTORIAN NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

TEN THINGS

THEY DON’T TELL YOU ABOUT

THE VICTORIAN

HIGH COUNTRY READY TO PACK UP THE 4X4 AND HEAD FOR THE HILLS, BUT NOT SURE WHAT TO DO? MR 4X4 IS HERE TO HELP YOU GET OUT AND EXPLORE THE HIGH COUNTRY!

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› BEST VIEW

This will no doubt cause some controversy, so let the hate mail begin! I believe the best Victorian High Country view is a tie between Blue Rag and Craig’s Hut. Craig’s Hut at sunset is a photographer’s paradise, as the post and rail fence line draws the eye first to the beautiful hut, and then on to the surrounding ranges. But then when you contrast this with the view from the Blue Rag Range, which boasts a more stunning and challenging track, it’s a tough choice indeed. The Blue Rag Range view from the trig point is a multilayered one, as the endless blue mountain ranges seem to go on, and on, and on. Still images are harder to capture up here, as it is a genuine 360-degree view, but that’s why we spend more money on our vehicles than our cameras, right?

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› BEST SPOT YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF

Dandongadale Falls isn’t the sort of place that most people talk about around the campfire – and that’s possibly because they drive straight past. Located near Lake Cobbler and down a few hundred metres of bush track, Dandongadale Falls is quite impressive. For a start, it boasts Victoria’s longest single drop waterfall (255m), but the natural paddle pools at the top are what the locals love.

› BEST HIGH COUNTRY HUT

Gee, another tough one. Lovick’s Hut, King Hut, Craig’s Hut – the list goes on and on. What’s not to love about these roughly constructed bush shelters? I’ll give the gong here to Bluff Hut, maintained by the Stoney family. A superb tin hut built to withstand the fire season (with a really unique gutter design), and a great view out the front. It’s located off – you guessed it – Bluff Track.

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› BEST DRIVING TIP

Let’s face it, Australia is pretty damn flat. So when you’re forced to drive kilometre after kilometre down into steep valleys, your brakes will really start to feel the heat. Engine braking is required, so pick the lowest gear your transfer case will offer, and grind your way down. If you are towing a camper trailer, take extra precautions, and consider resting your brakes to let them cool down halfway down the descent. There have been too many instances of drivers failing to do so, and plummeting of the side of the track and into the snow gums.

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› BEST CAMPSITE

Talbotville would have to be a frontrunner as the most popular site for families, but with its history and misty mountain scenery, I’d have to give the award to the Wonnangatta Valley. Not to mention there is no ‘fast’ way in to the Wonnangatta, it’s low range for hours in and out. In fact, it’s around six hours of low range to get back out to Mansfield (which is just the way we like it!)

WANT MORE VICTORIAN HIGH COUNTRY ADVENTURE?

Grab A Copy Of Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures Season Six DVD Boxed Set

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› BEST MOVIE TO ›BEST PUBS its famous ‘Raspberry Grenade’, SEE BEFORE YOU GO With a great tasting beer flavoured with a The Man From Snowy River 1 & 2 are essential viewing. And thanks to cutprice DVDs at big retailers, they’re not hard to find, either. Both films stand the test of time, and will really get you in the mood for that gorgeous steep terrain that you’re about to encounter. A good mate of mine Garry Doyle plays these films through a projector and onto a white sheet around his High Country campsite – always to an ecstatic audience.

hint of local raspberries, the Jamieson Brewery is a hard pub to pass. Although in a literal sense, you could actually miss it, as it’s perched just off the main road between Mansfield and Jamieson. You can grab a four beer tasting tray plus local pesto for $12 – bring on summer! On the other side of the range is the Dargo Hotel, est 1898. This is a classic hotel in every sense of the word, with hearty meals, wraparound verandahs and a perfect location. Accommodation is also available in log cabins. When people talk about the Dargo Hotel, they do so with a glint in their eye, and a grin on their gob.

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› BEST TRACK

If I want to impress someone, the Blue Rag Range track is short, exhilarating and not too far up the road from Mt Hotham. And as already mentioned, the view from the top is mind-blowing. But then there’s Zeka Spur, Billy Goat Bluff, and the list goes on. Choosing just one great track in the high country verges on a criminal act!

› BEST TIME TO GO

Given the Victorian High Country 4X4 tracks are closed from early June to late October, that narrows down at least some parts of the year. The most popular (read: crowded) times to go are over the Christmas holidays and the Easter Holidays. So if crowds don’t bother you, then go for it. But of course, you are in the mountains, so expect the unexpected when it comes to weather. I have driven through snow in late January! For me, I really love autumn in the High Country. Towns like Bright and Harrietville are simply stunning as the leaves fall, and the bracing weather makes you really feel like a High Country traveller.

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NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE Buckland

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By Pat Callinan NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE ad

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10 THINGS

I HATE ABOUT FOUR-WHEEL DRIVING By Pat Callinan

The results are in. It seems that us humans are more attracted to bad news than good news. Look no further than national news bulletins on the tele every night. So in a world of 4X4 that I absolutely love, I’ve managed to somehow dredge up the Top 10 Things I Hate About Four-Wheel Driving.

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THE KNOW-IT ALL

There is a definite sense of pride and achievement when you complete a major trek like the Canning, the Cape or a Simpson Desert Crossing. But some people take this badge of honour, and try and make these tracks sound like an Everest-like achievement. And for the uninitiated, they’re not. One such trip leader in the Simpson Desert was heard to be demeaning a young lady over the CB radio, saying: “You must know your exact location at all times! State your exact GPS location!” Again, it’s good to know where you are, but not cool to preach to other travellers. The CB chatter after the track preacher was awesome: “Looks like we’ve got a Whisky Alpha Nina Kilo Echo Rodger on the track!”

THE SAND DRIVING SLICE SHOT

You know those shots in magazines when the 4X4 is driving at 100 miles per hour and then hooks a sharp turn, creating a wave of sand that envelops the vehicle? Look at any second rate publication and you’ll see it, guaranteed. At first glance, these images look cool. Yet activate the brain, and they’re really not. First, they send the wrong message – four-wheel drivers are here to see the scenery, not to tear it up. And secondly, soft sand requires low tyre pressures. So low tyre pressures and sharp turns equate to tyres tearing away from the bead. Believe me, I’ve tried this in my younger days, and the number of beads off rims was all-too common.

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THE FAKE

ARTICULATION SHOT

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THE FAKE ARTICULATION SHOT

Still on magazines, I was always amazed at how some publications would always feign a suspension articulation shot by parking the 4WD across the nearest drain. Really guys, aren’t there any 4X4 tracks nearby? Running a close second to this, is the “Merrily Driving Through Salt Water at the Beach” shot that you see on countless TV ads. Really, a great way to accelerate that rust process…

CAMPAIGNERS FOR TRACK PRESERVATION, WHO DON’T PRACTICE WHAT THEY PREACH

I’m all for keeping 4X4 tracks open right across Australia. But all too often, the very people (and I’m talking some very high profile ones) are those that tear the tracks up themselves. Taking goofy track churning shots, encouraging others on video’s to ‘give it some’ and then claiming some nonsensical ‘birthright’ to tracks staying open. Newsflash team – tracks staying open is a privilege, not a birthright. Perhaps if you treated track access as a privilege and not a birthright, we might go some way towards keeping more tracks open. And yes John, I’m talking to you.

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ACCESS TO ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES

The freedom we experience as fourwheel drivers is quite awesome. So when you go to places like Karumba, Borroloola, Bloomfield and Warburton, and see big signs saying ‘Closed Community, No Access’, you scratch your head. Some of these places have shops, full community services, but as an outsider, you are not allowed in. Now to not be allowed onto someone else’s property, that’s fine. But when that property is a whole community, an entire town, that to me is un-Australian. Imagine the uproar if we put gates around our own suburbs and said: “White People Only”. But that’s precisely what is happening here, only in reverse. If you’re not of this skin colour, then you’re not welcome. Believe me, I’ve tried entering these communities on a few occasions, and have been hurriedly moved on by either the police, or the CEO of the community.

COST OF BREAKAGES

Getting into tricky locations can sometimes lead to damage. Whether it’s a smashed back window from a rock reflected off a camper-trailer, or a busted tail light as you accidentally backed into a tree. Spare parts aren’t cheap, and it finding second-hand spares is even tougher. There is no reliable online database for used spare parts, which would save us all a bucket load of coin. One of my crew nailed a taillight of a Navara down in Tassie, and it cost me $450. And I’m certain there are more expensive taillights than that out there on the market.

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FOOD WASTAGE

This is a personal problem of mine, but perhaps I’m not alone. Do you tend to shop for every day and night of the trip, every single meal, only to dine out more than planned? In the process, bringing back bucket loads of food? That’s me, to a tee.

TRACK CLOSURES

thank the almighty upstairs that we have a rather large continent, because the number of track closures over the past decade is staggering. And pinning those track closures on bad behaviour is a thinly veiled excuse. If someone misbehaves in a city, do we close that street down? No, we pop up cameras and try to catch them. But in the bush, the knee-jerk reaction is to punish everyone by locking the gates, and simply closing out the bush-loving majority. The authorities often claim that installing camera’s is too expensive, but in my eyes, a $400 infrared camera is a damn sight cheaper than bringing in earthmoving equipment to fix up a damaged track. Try $400 an hour…

BLATANT PRODUCT COPIES

We all benefit from the flow-down of technology over time – think variable valve timing, fuel-injection and even coil spring suspension back in the eighties. But simply jumping on AliBaba and saying “copy me one of these” not only lacks ethics, but it also lacks originality. Why not try and oneup the original, and build something even better?

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FEAR & MISINFORMATION

Pick up the wrong 4X4 print magazine, and you’ll feel that to drive Cape York, you’ll need 35-inch muddies, a six inch lift, twin-lockers and eleventeen cases of XXXX Gold. You don’t. In fact, that six-inch lift will make your vehicle unstable, and will be far less reliable than a mild 2-inch lift. Much more than a 3-inch lift will cause the geometry of your suspension to get out of whack, and will put excessive strain on locating arms like panhard rods. And those big tyres will make

your vehicle less efficient, and will cause the low range gearing to suffer a whole lot. Oh, and did I mention you’ll need an expensive Engineer’s Certificate to drive the rig legally? Believe me, because I’ve owned the very vehicle I’m talking about…

What’s your most hated part of four-wheel driving? What did Pat miss? What do you hate that wasn’t on the list?

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DESTINATION:

VICTORIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

HIGH COUNTRY HEAD FOR THE HILLS, BECAUSE THE HIGH COUNTRY IS THE PLACE TO BE!

Sitting by the warm glow of a campfire, laughing about the track you drove today that made your knuckles turn white and your heart rate go off the scale is part of the whole Victorian High Country experience. Some of the tracks, rated double black diamond by Four Wheel Drive Victoria, are a test of tyres, suspension, engine torque and driver skill. Long rocky climbs seem to go on forever, only to end with spectacular views of mountains and the distant thin lines of other tracks crossing the ridges. Tracks with river crossings where you have to pick the right line before carefully climbing out of the current onto the slippery track that leads to another deeper crossing of the same stream. Steep descents that test the nerves, NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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water wheels and stamping batteries – anything that was too big to get out after it all went bust is still on site. Piles of stones mark chimney sites where miner’s cottages, shops, banks and hotels once stood. Lots of hotels – they were wild years. Cattlemen’s huts are a feature of the High Country. Each one is unique and historic and they make fantastic refuges keeping your foot off the brake pedal when the weather turns nasty, which it and allowing the vehicle to walk down as will in the Alpine areas. The cattlemen you steer delicately to avoid deep ruts and brought their own culture to the High rocks. If you want to test your vehicle and Country and it has become part of our – more importantly – test yourself, the heritage celebrated in song, poetry and High Country is the place to go. film. Camping in a hut with a fire going and the kettle boiling while the thick Though, the High Country experience morning frost starts to thaw outside is a doesn’t have to be all white knuckle and High Plains luxury. hairy chested. Within the thousands of kilometres of two-wheel drive roads and Wonnangatta Station, an iconic fourfour-wheel drive tracks there are dozens wheel drive destination, has long history of destinations that are part of the history of cattle grazing, family tragedies and of Eastern Victoria. two grizzly unsolved murders from the early 1900s and is still in the news with In the second half of the nineteenth Fuel Reduction Cattle Grazing Trials century thousands of Europeans, polarising public opinion. Americans and Chinese headed into the High Country in search of gold. There are still plenty of relics to find in the bush. Stationary steam engines,

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HIGH COUNTRY

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Camping in the Victorian High Country is fantastic. Still free in an age of “user pays”, there are hundreds of places to roll out the swag, pitch a tent or set up the camper trailer. Sleeping with the gurgling sound of a nearby creek and waking to the early morning calls of birds like the raucous black cockatoos is priceless. In winter months many of the higher altitude and more fragile tracks will be closed to avoid damage so that we can continue to use them for years to come. This is when the lower foothill areas that are much less used are worth visiting. There are some fantastic tracks that are still local secrets. The proximity of the High Country to surrounding towns adds variety to a visit. If your heart needs a rest from walking to hidden historic sites or driving double black diamond tracks you can head out to stock up on supplies. Most of the towns have a coffee shop for a caffeine jolt, a bakery to replenish the cholesterol level and you may find a boutique brewery or hidden gem winery. It’s a beautiful area, and that’s why I think it’s the best four wheel drive destination in Australia! By Gregory Rose | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION

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THE NISSAN PATROL Y62

NEEDS A TURBO-DIESEL

ENGINE

WOULD YOU BUY A DIESEL VERSION OVER THE VENERABLE 200-SERIES LANDCRUISER? American diesel legend Cummins is partnering up with Nissan to provide the manufacturer with a 5.0-litre V8 turbo-diesel for the next generation of the Nissan Titan. If rumours are correct, Nissan will be offering this forthcoming vehicle to the Australian market for the very first time. Previously the Titan was available with the same V8 petrol engine that’s currently in the Y62 Patrol, which – while powerful – is a bit thirsty. Considering that the current generation Y62 Patrol and Titan share a common heart, is it too much of a stretch to assume that Nissan will also be putting this 5.0-litre monster in the latest Patrol?

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WHICH TYRES SUIT THE TERRAIN YOU DRIVE ON?

You need a round edge all-terrain tyre

Serious dirt, gravel & rocks

You need a square edge all-terrain tyre

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turbo for low RPM and a big one for high RPM) so you can have plenty of power without dreaded turbo lag. With caravans and camper trailers getting heavier by the day, and options for utility-based 4X4s dwindling, we need more high-power V8 turbo-diesel options. As a bonus, rumours are also circulating that this engine will make its way into Nissan has previously said no. But the the next-generation Toyota Tundra, lack of a fuel-efficient yet powerful diesel which is also rumoured to be making its has been seen by some four-wheel way to Australian shores. That makes drivers as one of the main reasons the for a lot of rumours flying around, so all Y62 hasn’t been fully accepted as a proper we know for sure is that the ute market 4X4. With extended range, and better is about to get stirred up, and we like it. economy, a diesel Y62 could prove to be Would you consider a Patrol Y62 over serious competition for the 200-series a 200-series LandCruiser if it came LandCruiser – especially as the Y61 is with a turbo-diesel engine? living on borrowed time. Cummins has announced that the 5.0-litre V8 turbo-diesel will produce a torque rating in the ‘mid-500s’ which translates to well over 700Nm of grunt on hand whenever you need it. It’ll also feature sequential turbochargers (a small

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THERE‘S MODULES AND THEN THERE‘S MODULES

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SO WHAT‘S THE DIFFERENCE?

S T E I N BAU E R D I E S E L P E R F O R M A N C E M O D U L E

HOW IS IT INSTALLED? WHAT‘S THE PERFORMANCE INCREASE? WHAT ARE OUR CUSTOMERS SAYING? PRODUCT TESTING

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FREECALL

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FORD EVEREST: WILL THIS BE THE NEW SUV TO BEAT? Following up on the success of the current Ranger, Ford Australia has excitedly announced that this lucky country will be receiving an off-road oriented four-door wagon. Known as the Everest, the soon to launch mid-sized SUV from Ford will share the same proven chassis and driveline as the everpopular Australian-designed Ford Ranger. While the new wagon also borrows design cues and suspension from the Ranger, there have been many unique enhancements to ensure the Everest is just as at home onroad as it is off the beaten track. Best of all, the Thai-built 4X4 is a genuine 7-seater, meaning the whole mob can now come along for the adventure.

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FORD

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› IS THIS THE UTE-BASED SUV FOR YOU? Thanks to the success of the Ranger, offering a wagonbased variant was always going to make sense. If you’re looking for a modern SUV that’s based on a proven chassis and driveline combination, the Everest could just be your next best friend. Due for release in Australia in mid to late 2015, do yourself a favour and book in a test drive while you can. If the Ranger’s popularity is anything to go by, there very well could be a long waiting list to find your backside parked in a shiny new Ford Everest.

› CAN IT GO OFF-ROAD?

Speaking of off-road ability, it’s pretty apparent that the Ford Everest has been designed with off-road use in mind. It features powerful engine options, coil over strut independent front suspension, and a new coil sprung rear live axle that blends off-road capability with towing ability. There’s even dedicated low range gearing and a swag of electronic traction-based off-road enhancements. One thing is for sure though –we can’t wait to see what the 4X4 aftermarket industry comes up with for the Everest, as this is one sharp looking SUV! Words by Evan Spence NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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› CAN IT TOW?

With a massive 3,500kg capacity, the Ford Everest is expected to handle towing duties with ease. Not only that, but the newly designed rear multi-link, solid axle coil sprung suspension replaces the somewhat agricultural leaf spring setup found under the Ranger. Ford officials are telling us that this new suspension design has been thoroughly tested in Australia, for Australian conditions. They are also confident that the new rear suspension design will offer an improved ride over the Ranger.

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SEMA 2014:

LOOKING FOR A FEW GOLD NUGGETS IN A SEA OF BAD IDEAS

SEMA and Las Vegas both represent everything that is wrong with the automotive industry: a mad dash to the bottom of the pyramid of taste and common sense, a cacophony of the uneducated shouting “More and more and more! More bling, more fries with that, more crap we really don’t need!” And the masses are snapping it up ravenously.

We dove headfirst into this year’s cesspool of glittering truck wraps, neon body lighting, and LED-everything, with a single mission: to find those few great products worth talking about.

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› ICON VEHICLE DYNAMICS SHOCKS FOR 200 SERIES LC

Icon Vehicle Dynamics doesn’t make silly kits for someone who wants their ute to tower over traffic, but for the person who wants a moderate lift, with perfect balance and poise, Icon is the name to turn to. They’ve recognised the importance of the Australian market and had success with products for the HiLux and the Ford Ranger T6. At SEMA they announced an advanced setup for the 200-Series LandCruiser. Add in everything you need for a week in the bush, the fact that people think Toyotas are indestructible, and the fact that you hardly notice the washboard in the plush interior, and those poor OEM shocks are taking a serious beating. The Icon setup starts with a billet upper arm in the front, complimenting a new remote-reservoir coil-over with compression adjustment. In the rear, billet trailing arms are paired with a 2.5inch bypass shock. This system should handle anything the Outback can throw at it, yet will still outperform a factory suspension on the bitumen.

› RIGID LED LIGHT BAR WITH BUILT-IN GOPRO CASING

Any photographer will tell you the secret to great photography and film work is good lighting. The folks at Rigid are the first ones to truly understand this, based on their innovative and fairly amazing new product. The Rigid Industries Capture combines highpower LED lighting with continuous power for a GoPro Hero camera. This means unlimited battery life and unprecedented lighting allowing you to capture wildlife, adventure scenes, and anything else that happens to you on the trail in amazing HD. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and seriously tough.

SEMA 2014

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FACTORY & S SPECIALDS SECON

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› MILEMARKER ES9 › DYNATRAC ALUMINIUM AXLES, IPHONE-CONTROLLED GATER WINCH (9000LBS PULL AT THE DRUM) E-LOCKERS, AND DANA The name Milemarker is not new to 4X4 60 FOR INDEPENDENT enthusiasts. Their hydraulic winch is still SUSPENSIONS the only one approved for use on the Everything Dynatrac does is either bulletproof or bombproof, or both. So we were extremely excited to see two innovative new products from them. Their aluminium axles reduce weight without reducing strength and were paired with AAM iPhonecontrolled e-lockers. A little gimmicky perhaps but we actually like the idea of being able to not only control but also monitor the performance of the lockers and the axle from an intuitive graphic interface, as long as we still have a manual backup system. Dynatrac also introduced a Dana 60 specifically designed for independent front and rear suspensions. With a proper Dynatrac D60 diff in your IFS/ IRS truck, a modern drivetrain will no longer equal a weaker drivetrain.

US Military Humvee. With that kind of reputation to live up to, they decided to over-build their latest electric winch, just to show that they can. The Gator ES9 is a limited edition winch, comes in a handnumbered wooden crate, and has fantastic attention to detail. But the special part about it is that it will pull a full 9000lbs from every layer, yes even from the drum, yet the size and weight is comparable to other 8000 and 9000lb winches on the market. As it is brand new we haven’t been able to test it yet, but the Milemarker engineering team insist the pulling speed, long-term reliability and power-draw are industry-leading. We can’t wait to try it out. A modern drivetrain will no longer equal a weaker drivetrain

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› NEW RHINO-RACK RLT600 QUICK-RELEASE

Rhino-Rack just released their new RLT600 quick-release track-mount leg, and it’s a game-changer. Gone are the days of fumbling with Allen keys and tiny bolts in the driveway, of wind-noise on the daily commute to the office, and of gear disappearing in the car park overnight. The RLT600 is lockable, and to remove it you simply turn the key to release the faceplate, squeeze the locking tabs inside, and lift the whole assembly off the roof. Dead easy. It even fits competitors’ roof-rails. And while it might look like simple plastic, it’s actually made of glass-injected nylon for strength and security. Available in any colour as long as it’s black.

› PREMIER TWIN-MOTOR WINCH

Our friends at Premier (aka ComeUp internationally) have introduced a highspeed, twin motor winch. Designed to compete against offerings from Gigglepin and other competition winch manufacturers, it’s being released just in time for the Malaysian Rainforest Challenge. We are looking forward to seeing how this new winch performs in the heat of competition. It will likely be sold in Australia under the ComeUp brand name.

We are looking forward to seeing how this new winch performs in the heat of competition

SEMA 2014

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$2295 OF EXTRAS * FOR JUST $595

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› COOPER TYRES AT3 AND ST MAXX - NEW SIZES JUST FOR AUSTRALIA

Cooper tyres announced that additional sizes are coming out for the AT3 and ST MAXX, including four sizes for the AT3 that will be exclusive to the Australian market. It’s nice to see an American company like Cooper recognising the great support they are getting from their Australian customers. The new sizes for the AT3 are: • 275/65R17 • 285/65R17 • 265/60R18 • 285/55R20

› BUSHWACKER COLOUR-MATCHED FLARES FOR TOYOTAS – NEW PROTOTYPE PRODUCT

Bushwacker have always made great fender flares but, perhaps understandably, they always wanted to show them off more than the rest of us. That all changed this year with the introduction of their colour-matched fender flares. Their SEMA booth featured a new US-spec Toyota 4Runner, one side sporting the traditional Bushwhacker dark fender flares, and the other side with their new colour-matched flares. We think the new colour-matched flares are an obvious choice and we are looking forward to seeing them popping up on vehicles across Australia.

SEMA 2014

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› NAPIER SUV TENT WITH SIDE-ROOM

The problem with SUV tents (those tents that latch onto the back of your car) is that they can quickly become a vomitorium for the contents of your car. Napier, small Canadian Because you’ve aheroically company, has created your an SUV tent with chosen to download a separate attached copy ofroom Unsealed 4X4, to one side. can’t what’s on shelter of the Nowyou you cansee stand in the this tent, page.sorting But trust us gear - it’s or cooking main your well worth at. To area dinner, while looking your sleeping see it in all its glory go to remains clean and uncluttered. unsealed4X4.com.au

› MOPAR CRATE AXLES (COMPLETE WITH DANA 60S AND 40S) You’ve heard of a crate engine? One that arrives in a box, fully built, and ready to install? Well Mopar just released crate axles for Jeeps, so now it’s easy to upgrade the complete axle with Dana 40s or 60s. No drilling, no tapping, no cutting, just bolt it in and drive away. This should be huge for owners of the Jeep JK.

› 14. CANVAS HI-LIFT BAG

Another way to secure your Hi-lift is to simply keep it inside your vehicle. The downside of course is the mud, sand, and oil that will get over everything else you own. To address this, Hi-Lift have released a simple, form-fitting canvas bag that will completely encase all the sharp and dirty parts of your Hi-Lift jack. Just remember to strap it down so it doesn’t become a missile inside your car in an accident.

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› SUPERWINCH ROAM COMMAND SYSTEM FOR SMARTPHONES

› HI-LIFT EXTERIOR LOCKING SYSTEM

Hi-Lift jacks are big, cumbersome, dirty, and heavy. They also look pretty cool. For The Superwinch ROAM Command these and other reasons many people System is more than just an app to like to bolt them to the outside of their control your winch, because that vehicle. One problem with that is that would be stupid. The true value of they all look the same, so it’s easy for this system is being able to monitor someone to nick yours and bolt it to the critical parameters of your winch’s performance in real time. Temperature, the back of their truck. Cable locks, bike locks, and a host of homemade solutions battery draw, and duty time are important to keep track of, but difficult have been around for years, but Hi-Lift just released an elegant keyed-locking for the average weekend warrior to system that adds zero complexity or judge accurately. The Superwinch weight to your vehicle. Now you can bolt ROAM system now makes it easy and your Hi-Lift to your bumper, roof rack, or intuitive to know exactly what your roll cage, turn the key and forget about it. winch is doing, all the time. Until you need it of course.

SEMA 2014

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› RIGID INDUSTRIES HILUX GRILL

› NEW ARB BP-51 SHOCKS

ARB and OME just released what may One could be forgiven for thinking that be the most advanced shock available Rigid only makes LED light bars. Indeed to consumers in the world. The BP-51 high performance shocks use that is what they’re most well-known for. But they also make some incredibly bypass technology and are adjustable both for rebound and compression. detailed accessories to complement Manufactured from hard anodised their lights. One of these is their new aircraft grade aluminium, they look CNC’d grill for the Toyota Hilux. It as good as they work. We were not allows you to discreetly and securely allowed to take photos of the internal mount your LED light bar down low workings of the shock for proprietary where you need it. reasons, but the attention to detail throughout their construction is second to none.

› IRONMAN FOAMCELL SHOCKS

Ironman released their new Foamcell premium shocks simultaneously in Australia and the USA. An innovative valve design reduces aeration (foaming) under heavy use, especially under extreme washboard conditions. This allows the shock to run cooler and more efficiently, for greater comfort, vehicle stability, and longer shock-life. By Ray Hyland

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HOW TO

DRIVE ON SAND WITHOUT GETTING STUCK WITH PLENTY OF BEAUTIFUL BEACHES TO EXPLORE, IT’S ABOUT TIME YOU LEARNED HOW TO DRIVE ON SAND. Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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It’s interesting to think that most people lose their off-road virginity on sand. It’s often the first place that you go to see if you actually like fourwheel driving. And it’s probably the single biggest reason why there aren’t four-billion four-wheel drivers out there! Why? Because sand driving for beginners is a baptism of fire.

The accepted normal tyre pressures on sand are 16 to 18psi. However, this can be altered by around 20% depending on how heavily (or lightly) your vehicle is laden. As with all rules, though, it’s made to be broken.

If you are badly bogged – or you have found some incredibly soft powdery sand – lower your tyre pressure until Sand is the one place where if you you get traction. I’d go as low as 8psi get it wrong, you can get it badly without beadlocks, or even down wrong. Your car can float away with to 5psi with beadlocks (devices that the tide (not kidding, mine did). You ‘lock’ the tyre’s bead onto the rim). can roll your vehicle sideways on a It’s important to note that whenever dune (it has happened – repeatedly) you lower your tyre pressure, your or you can get stuck in quicksand (it’s 4X4’s handling ability will be adversely not just reserved for kids’ books). So affected. Hence, any cornering needs why do we do it? Because it’s fun, it to be done with absolute caution, not takes you to awesome places, and only to keep your vehicle upright, but there’s nothing quite like the feeling of to keep your tyres on their rims. cruising up a beach with your windows I’ve lost count of how many tyres I’ve down and the wind in your hair. seen pop off their rims from sandspraying magazine photo shoots...

SOFT OPTION

And when the ground gets firm again, Unless you’re driving on wet sand after don’t forget to reinflate your tyres the run-out tide, or indeed after heavy immediately. Low pressures and high speeds are a dangerous concoction, rain, sand is soft. So when you plonk and can lead to tyre blowouts and a two-tonne four-wheel drive on it, it vehicle rollovers. has the tendency to want to sink. We stop that sinking or bogging sensation by lowering the tyre pressure. This increases the length of the tread pattern on your tyre, dispersing its weight over a larger area. There’s a common misconception that if the tyres visibly ‘bag out’ in the sidewalls, you’ve lowered your pressures sufficiently. However, sidewall bagging is an unreliable indicator – the only reliable way of knowing is with a well-calibrated tyre pressure gauge. NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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DRIVER’S ED 101 THE BASICS • Minimise sharp turns • Stay off vegetated areas • Be gentle on your brakes • Don’t turn on dunes or drive on side slopes • Pause at the top of sand dunes • Keep speeds down, but maintain momentum in soft sand • Drive above the high-tide mark, except for on a run-out tide • Use your indicators to show your intentions to oncoming vehicles • Re-inflate your tyres before getting back onto the bitumen

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TECHNIQUE

however, most 4X4s do this by selecting low range. This gives you more adequate gearing and higher engine revolutions, meaning that power is ‘on tap’ more readily. If your 4X4 is particularly powerful, you might get away with high-range 4X4, but even then, only if the sand is reasonably firm.

While correct tyre pressures are great, they’re not a cure-all for sand. For that you need a good driving technique. Sand naturally saps the power of your vehicle, and without power you can lose momentum and get bogged. So, the key is to keep your momentum up, and stop only when it’s safe to do so. It’s good practice to park on downhill slopes to There are no strict rules as to which give your 4X4 less of a chance of bogging. gears to use, as all vehicles differ, and so too does the consistency of sand. Maintaining momentum is all about You’ll soon work it out with practice, correct gear selection. With an though. A lot of soft-roader 4X4s automatic 4X4, this is as easy as don’t have low-range 4X4, and can be pressing down on the accelerator, driven on sand with some success – but for a manual it requires regular particularly the lighter, more powerful stirring of the gearbox, and a constant models. These vehicles usually have eye on your vehicle revs. Generally, less ground clearance than their larger you’ll want to maintain slightly higher cousins. Be careful that you don’t rip revs to keep those wheels turning in off bash plates and mud guards in a manual vehicle. You do this to ‘keep deep sand. Also, a lack of low range something in reserve’ for particularly can place further pressure on clutches soft patches of sand or quicksand. and transmissions, so take it easy if you’re in the soft-roader ranks. Keeping the correct degree of momentum is always a challenge; NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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MISTAKES YOU SHOULDN’T MAKE • Parking your 4X4 under the high-tide mark. You go to take off, but get bogged. Up comes the tide, and sayonara fourbie! • Guessing tyre pressures – I’ve never met anyone who can accurately estimate tyre pressure by eye. • Not bringing a snatch strap. It’s bad form to borrow recovery gear when you should have thought ahead and brought it yourself.

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BEACHES

Many beaches can get busy over the summer months, and with no lane markers, it can get a little tricky. This is especially the case at high tide, when some beaches get extremely skinny. Whenever oncoming traffic approaches, always indicate which side of the vehicle you wish to pass on. Of course, the basic rule in Australia is to stay on the left of the oncoming vehicle, but the use of indicators clears up any problems that might arise. Some of the beaches you will drive on will seem perfectly flat and devoid of people, so the temptation is to drive at highway speeds of 100km/h or more. Yet these speeds don’t take into account the fact that you are not driving in a man-made environment. There may be fresh creeks cut across the sand, driftwood, or an unexpected jump-up, which could cause you all

sorts of problems. So, stick to the speed limit, and if there isn’t one, drive at a speed that allows you to stop in a hurry (i.e. 40km/h). The other problem with high speeds and beaches is when people are enjoying some time on the beach. Kids, for example, will naturally run straight from the water up to their beach towels without even looking, and if you’re hooting along the beach, there is no way you can stop in time. On some beaches, the outgoing waves create undulations or dips in the sand, and often you’ll find people sunbaking here. Although very rare, at times these sunbakers have actually been run over by 4X4s that couldn’t see them in the dips until it was too late. Now, this is doomsdaying a little, but if it saves one life, then I’m a happy four-wheel driver.

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DUNES

Sand dunes are always an exhilarating experience, whether they’re in the middle of the desert or on the coastline. Yet, they come with their own set of issues. Firstly, without momentum, you’ll rarely get up and over the top. Don’t be afraid to bury the slipper on your way up a steep dune. Once you reach the peak, though, you’ll need to slow down or stop. Often, there will be a significant blind spot for a few seconds as you stare skywards, meaning you can’t see the terrain ahead, or approaching vehicles for that matter. This is why well-prepared vehicles always fit sand flags, making them instantly recognisable to oncoming vehicles. However, pausing at the top of the dune is also important, because over the other side there may be a massive drop-off. Many a novice has gleefully powered to the top of

a dune, only to sail straight ahead into thin air. At best, this will result in some airtime, at worst, death in a nasty end-over roll. The other golden rule of sand dunes is to only ever head straight up or straight down. By their nature, 4X4s are top-heavy, and as sand is unstable, the wheels on the low-side lack support. The sand gives way, and the vehicle will roll down the dune. Hence, never turn on a sand dune or attempt to cross a side slope. A final handy tip for white sand dunes is to wear sunglasses. This is not just to protect your eyes from dune glare, but to allow you better forward vision. You see, as there are no trees on dunes, there are very few, if any, shadows, so it can be difficult to pick holes or depressions in the sand. I find that sunglasses improve my chances of missing big and little lumps and bumps in the dunes.

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QUICKSAND

I’ve experienced quicksand both on the west coast of Tasmania and on Stockton Beach near Newcastle. It’s a peculiar phenomenon, whereby, usually through an underground aquifer, the sand mixes in roughly the same ratio as the water (50/50). The problem for the driver is that quicksand looks no different to normal dry sand. The weight of a 4X4 driving over the surface of the sand draws the water up, effectively mixing it to the quicksand consistency. This usually spells ‘instant deep bog’. Experienced four-wheel drivers will avoid driving near areas of low-lying water, still water, or mini lakes, as this is usually where the quicksand occurs. If you can feel your vehicle sinking, accelerate rapidly and you may be able to drive out. Otherwise, if your momentum stops, so

should you. Any further acceleration will simply bury you deeper. Well, I hope I haven’t scared you out of sand driving. With a few precautions, it really is a blast. Just don’t forget your tyre gauge. By Pat Callinan

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING • • • • • • • • •

Tyre gauge Long-handled shovel Snatch strap Cable damper (x2) Rated bow shackles Air compressor Jacking plate Recovery boards like MAXTRAX Tyre deflators like ARB E-Z Deflators

PAT CALLINAN’S 4X4

STARTER GUIDE

IS AVAILABLE NOW CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

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BEACH

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10 OF THE BEST 4X4

BEACH DRIVES IN AUSTRALIA

WHICH OF THESE EPIC BEACH DRIVES ARE YOU PLANNING TO TACKLE NEXT?

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DRIVES

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With almost 26,000 km of oceanfront property and beautiful beaches, there’s certainly no shortage of amazing sandy adventures waiting to take place. Whether you’re out there purely for the thrill of four-wheel drive touring, or you’d like to sit back, relax, and catch some fish (or some beers), we have an adventure for you.

› SANDY CAPE TASMANIA:

Quicksand, Antarctic winds, and deep creeks flowing into huge seas punctuate this mustdo 4X4 trek on Tasmania’s west coast. The rugged coastal scenery is spectacular however don’t let it distract you, this is serious 4X4 country which has claimed more than a few vehicles. Travelling in a convoy is compulsory due to the regular occurrence of quicksand which can swallow your truck – always have your recovery gear ready and be aware of tidal movements. The 12km beach run begins at Greenes Creek, however even getting there requires some low range antics through big bog holes on the Balfour Track.

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› RAINBOW BEACH TO NOOSA

Looking for a great first sandy adventure that’s only a few hours from Brisbane? Not interested in catching a barge to Fraser? Then check out this trek which starts at Rainbow Beach and heads to Noosa via a stunning series of beaches that have it all: beach camping, gigantic sand dunes, sensational fishing; surfing and more. Take note of speed limits as police patrols are common, although they won’t be a problem at high tide when it’s slow going and sand can be almost nonexistent, especially after large swells. Those swells can also make the short drive from Double Island Point to Rainbow Beach impassable, or at least inadvisable, with the hour-long detour via the Freshwater Track the only alternative.

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› MORETON ISLAND:

Travel from the city to the sand without driving a kilometre! Moreton Island is accessible via a 75-minute ferry trip from the Port of Brisbane. Your arrival will have you rolling off the ferry and onto another of Queensland’s 4X4-friendly sand islands. At 37km long and 10km wide, Moreton Island can be traversed in a day, however you could easily spend the week exploring war relics, shipwrecks and freshwater lakes in between surfing, fishing, diving and simply soaking it up.

An easy two hours north of Sydney, behind the bustling port of Newcastle, lies the longest beach in NSW. The 31.8km stretch of sand that is Stockton Beach is a 4X4 Mecca, with much of it open to vehicles, although big swells regularly make driving impossible at high tide. Camping at Stockton and driving in the dunes has been off limits since a 2012 storm, however access is currently under review. There are two entrances onto the beach, Lavis Lane at Williamtown about half way down and at Anna Bay on the northern tip.

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While the driving is generally cruisy, large swells can expose coffee rock on the beaches, and some dune tracks get quite rough during holidays.

› STOCKTON BEACH:

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› ROBE BEACH RUN:

Renowned for ultra-soft, power-sapping sand, challenging beach exits and a warren of tracks weaving through stunning coastal scenery, South Australia’s Robe Beach Run is a must-do. Antarctic winds are common, whipping sand at your truck, howling in tune with your screaming engine that struggles for purchase on tracks that remind you why heavy items don’t go on the roof. Travel with company and recovery gear, lower your tyres to a near beadbreaking 14psi and bring a flag to avoid head-on collisions. A decent map wouldn’t go astray either.

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› BRUNY ISLAND – CLOUDY CORNER:

› WEDGE ISLAND AND LANCELIN

Having caught a car ferry from Kettering and driven the full length of Bruny Island you will arrive at Cloudy Bay, deep in the wilderness of South Bruny National Park.

The beach driving is excellent, although appropriate care must be taken when driving below the high tide mark.

Nestled at the southern end of Bruny Island off the southeast coast of Tasmania lies a camping spot so peaceful its existence alone is reason enough to own a four-wheel drive.

Access is via 3km of easy beach driving that leads to a campsite tucked among the trees and protected from all weather.

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With magical walking, great fishing and gently peeling waves you may never want to leave.

Ninety minutes north of Perth lies one of Western Australia’s best beach getaways. Wedge Island is a popular holiday destination with around 350 beach shacks catering for tourists and residents alike.

The popular dunes behind the beach are now permanently closed, however 25km south is the Lancelin Off Road Vehicle Area where vehicles and bikes of all types can play in the dunes. Their proximity to Perth means they can get busy on weekends and holidays, however with a bit of planning they could be all yours.

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ight

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› CAPE FLATTERY

Located in remote Far North Queensland, you’d be forgiven if you hadn’t heard of Cape Flattery, even if it’s less than a half-day drive from Cooktown. But if you’re looking for a remote beach, it would be hard to beat this one.

Just don’t forget to air down your tyres and bring a few different recovery options. The entrance to this beach sees no traffic, has several water crossings, and a steep, soft climb. Sandy white beaches and the opportunity for you to explore this rarely travelled, remote area will make this something you won’t forget. Pair it with a side trip to the coloured sands of Elim Beach and a stay at Eddie’s Beach Camp.

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› CABLE BEACH

In the heart of Broome lies 22km of brilliant white sand that is regularly described as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

This is an accolade that is sure to attract the crowds and Cable Beach is nearly always bustling with tourists and locals alike, with campsites almost impossible to find during holidays. Driving along the shores of Cable Beach you are likely to encounter plenty of fellow four-wheel drivers, herds of camels being ridden by backpackers, nudist colonies and fisherman – sometimes all at once! However there is plenty of room to find your own pocket of paradise and watch the sun melt into the Indian Ocean.

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› FRASER ISLAND

Did you think for a second that we could talk about Australia’s best 4X4 beaches and not include Fraser Island? The world’s largest sand island is one of the premier 4X4 destinations for good reason. With over 100 freshwater lakes, countless lengths of drivable beaches, plenty of shipwrecks to explore, and fantastic fishing, it’s easy to see why. There’s no excuse for you not put Fraser Island on your list. Even if you’re without a four-wheel drive vehicle, you can rent one on the spot, and if beach camping isn’t in the cards, there’s always the well-appointed Kingfisher Resort. Just be sure to follow the rules (and the always decreasing speed limits) and it’ll be hard to have a bad time! Just make sure to book your ferry in advance.

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Generally speaking, you’ll need your own vehicle, communication and recovery equipment. Some services may offer rentals.

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UPGRADING YOUR VEHICLE’S WEAKEST LINK:

YOU

WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE BEST FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TRAINING IN EACH STATE. The reality is that modern four-wheel drive vehicles are probably more capable than most of the people who are driving them. Which is a bad thing, because while they’ll take you to some amazing places – they’ll also put you into some hairy situations where you can quickly get in over your head. Luckily, there’s an easy solution – get yourself some proper four-wheel drive training. The best off-road upgrade you can make is to yourself. Whether your 4X4 has magic buttons or an old school second stick, you have a responsibility to know how to evaluate and safely tackle off-road obstacles and perform a self-recovery when your vehicle gets stuck. If you’re in a 4X4 club ask them about training or look for a professional 4X4 training course from a company that: • Offers a nationally recognised course – you might not need an official piece of paper, but a company who can

provide a qualification has to have met certain standards in training capability and course content. • Has qualified trainers who can impart key concepts clearly and who have extensive 4X4 experience. • Has dedicated training facilities or locations that provide controlled, repeatable training experiences. • Provides a variety of training either within a single “all terrain” course or over dedicated courses that you can select to match your prime interest e.g. sand driving or bush terrain. • Has a low instructor to trainee ratio so you can expect some dedicated one-on-one instruction. • Allows your partner or family to attend as well so they all get an understanding about the right way to enjoy the off-road experience.

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ACT › ACT 4WD CLUB

Members of the ACT 4WD Club benefit from regular club training events on topics like winch recoveries, using chainsaws or unique snow and mud driving requirements. The club training coordinator also organises formal 4X4 training to ensure members can safely and proficiently participate in the more challenging club trips. Contact the club for membership details. Course costs vary depending on attendee numbers and course content. act4wdclub.org.au/training/

NEW SOUTH WALES › GREAT DIVIDE TOURS

Great Divide Tours has a dedicated training facility on a bushland property on the outskirts of Braidwood in the Southern Highlands of NSW (one hour from Canberra or three hours from Sydney). Choose from three courses – introductory, advanced or towing – all run over a weekend and include bush camping on site. Two day training programme: $595 per vehicle with up to two drivers, additional adults – $150, children under 16 – $50 greatdividetours.com.au/driver-training.htm/

› AUSTRALIAN 4X4 TRAINING

The focus for Australian 4x4 Training is delivering practical training on actual bush tracks – and they don’t mind admitting some of the tracks are rough… just like the real bush. Nationally accredited training suitable for novices through to those with four-wheel drive experience is conducted over one or two-days with a maximum of six vehicles per course. One day: $325 per driver (no charge for non-participating adult/ children) Two day: $425 per driver One-on-one courses: $440/day or $660/two days australian-4x4.com.au NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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› GETABOUT TRAINING SERVICES

Getabout’s professional instructors have been conducting competency based training courses for over 15 years to ensure that participants achieve the skills necessary for safe and enjoyable four-wheel driving. Accredited courses range from one to two days and from basic to advanced levels. Both basic and towing courses are conducted in multiple states. One day basic courses: approximately $395/person (venue dependent) Two day Advanced 4WD and Recovery in Lithgow: $495 first person; $250 extra person getabout.edu.au

NORTHERN TERRITORY › EAGLE TRAINING

Eagle Training provide an accredited two-day course run out of Darwin or Alice Springs. Courses consist of four hours theory and 12 hours of in-vehicle practical training along designated training routes for all levels of experience. Participants travel in small groups in Eagle Training provided 4X4s, with a designated instructor for the duration of the course. Two day 4X4 Training: $640/person eagletraining.com.au/course/driving/4-wheel-drivetraining

› TRAINSAFE NT

An endorsed provider for the NT government, Trainsafe NT run nationally accredited training out of Darwin or Alice Springs. The two-day courses are restricted to a maximum of ten participants to ensure appropriate individual instruction. Typically courses are split as 20 per cent theory and 80 per cent practical components. Darwin: $549 per person. Maximum three participants per vehicle Alice Springs: $390 per person. Maximum three participants per vehicle trainsafe.net/current-courses/4-wd-courses

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QUEENSLAND

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› AUSTRALIAN 4WD & ADVANCED DRIVER EDUCATION

Australian 4WD & Advanced Driver Education is dedicated to covering the full range of driver training – from learner drivers starting in a driving simulator to advanced 4X4 training in bush or sand, recovery, towing and even basic mechanical and servicing or trip preparation and leadership (perfect for 4X4 clubs). Half Day (Sand Driving / Towing): $230. Full Day (4WDriving in the Bush / Defensive Driving / Advanced Recovery): $275. Costs are for one driver who is assessed for accreditation – partners may attend and participate at no additional cost. australian4wd.com.au/courses.html#.VA7RzkufU7k

› AUSTRALIAN OFFROAD ACADEMY

The Australian Offroad Academy provides recreational and commercial accredited courses for four-wheel drivers of all skill levels. Their courses are run at multiple locations including Queensland’s iconic sand driving experience – yep; you can actually do your training on Fraser Island. What a great way to build confidence before tackling an extended Fraser getaway. Recreational 4WDriving – one person $335, two drivers in one car $435 Sand Driving – $380 per vehicle Advanced Recreational 4WDriving – one person $305, two drivers in one car $510 Training on Fraser Island (includes barge fees) – $510 per vehicle (includes two drivers)

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SOUTH AUSTRALIA › ADVENTURE 4WD

Adventure 4WD have been passionate about delivering quality 4X4 training to corporate and recreational clients since 1993. Choose from oneand-a-half day introductory courses (with the half day being the theory session) or a two day southern Flinders Ranges exploration trek with fabulous scenery to enjoy while learning your four-wheel driving capabilities. One-and-a-half day First Time Out – $460 per vehicle including up to two drivers Two Day Weekend Walkabout – $780 per vehicle including up to two drivers $100 per additional adult, $70 per additional child (12 years and under) One day Tow My Camper – $750 per vehicle including up to two drivers adventure4wd.com.au

PAT CALLINAN’S 4X4

STARTER GUIDE

IS AVAILABLE NOW CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

› FOLLOW ME 4WD

Follow Me 4WD conducts one and two day courses from basic to advanced four-wheel driving and specialist courses such as sand driving and winching. Courses are accredited to national standards and delivered by highly experienced instructors. Basic 4WD – One day $550 / Two Day $750 Advanced 4WD – One day $595. Extra trainee in same vehicle $50 Sand Driving – One day $495 Winch Recovery – $355 followme4wd.com.au

Essential Courses

Shop

Ph: 1300 660 320

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PRODUCTS TECHNICAL DATA

20% stronger than steel wire of the same diameter. Less then one tenth the weight of a steel rope. Made from Dyneema, the worlds strongest man-made fibre. It stores very little energy, therefore has little backlash if broken, improving safety. Tremendous stability towards UV light. Resistant to chemicals.

BEADLOCK AUSTRALIA

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www.dynamicarope.com beadlock@bigpond.net.au

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TASMANIA › 4WD TASMANIA

The peak body for 4X4 Clubs in Tasmania provides nationally accredited training to ensure participants can safely enjoy Tasmanian wilderness trails whether they are beginners or advanced four-wheel drivers. Both basic and advanced courses run over two days at locations easily accessible from major centres such as Hobart and Launceston. Four Wheel Driving and Vehicle Recovery Course – $220/person Advanced Driving and Recovery Course – $250/person 4wdtasmania.org

› MOTOR SAFE TASMANIA

One-day 4WD and Recovery courses are conducted by Motor Safe Tasmania at purpose built training facilities at Symmons Plains and Baskerville. The emphasis is teaching drivers how to operate 4X4s safely without putting themselves in danger or doing damage to the vehicle, while lessening the potential impact to the environment. One day course – $395/person motorsafetas.com.au

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NEXT GENERATION ENGEL IT’S A FREEZER! IT’S A FRIDGE!

The new MT45FCP Combi is part of the Next Generation digital range, which have all new features plus the same Engel reliability.

ANNOUNCING THE LATEST IN THE ENGEL FRIDGE FREEZER RANGE

THE NEW MT45FCP COMBI The new MT45FCP is a fridge and freezer in one and has different options for use! Option 1 Freezer 16 litres and Fridge 23 litres. Total 39 litres

Option 2 Freezer 23 litres and Fridge 16 litres. Total 39 litres

Option 3 Refrigerator Only - User friendly LED Digital control, with built in (divider removed) battery protection Total 40 litres - The famous Sawafuji swing motor with only one moving part - Lowest maximum power draw - Rugged steel cabinet with LED interior light. - Tri-voltage - Removable wire baskets and divider with easy clean interior. - 3 year warranty and Australia wide service network

For stockists call 1300 302 653 or visit www.engelaustralia.com.au

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VICTORIA › MELBOURNE 4X4 TRAINING & PROVING GROUND

The Melbourne 4X4 Training and Proving Ground provides a unique 80 acres of natural and man-made 4X4 challenges 25 minutes west of Melbourne’s CBD in the Werribee Gorge. Both accredited and personal development training is provided with a maximum of ten vehicles on any course delivered by qualified instructors at basic, intermediate and advanced levels. One day course: $300.00 per driver, $230.00 for a secondary driver, and $50.00 per passenger (includes lunch and refreshments) melbourne4x4.com.au

› MOUNTAIN TOP EXPERIENCE

Choose from a one day introductory course near Morwell or two day residential course at Mountain Top Experience’s training facility in Rawson for advanced training in rugged terrain. Discussion sessions are based around real-life experiences (including analysis of accidents and rescues). Driving sessions allow participants to take vehicles to their limits, safely. Courses are not accredited but are designed to exceed requirements of national standards.

Tip It’s not a bad idea to do some light reading on proper four-wheel drive technique before arriving to make yourself more familiar with the subjects, just don’t try to teach the instructor anything. We recommend Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Starter Guide, and the training stories you can read here in Unsealed 4X4.

One day course: $110 per vehicle (bring a picnic lunch and as many passengers as you wish) Two day course $250 (non-participating partners /family $50 each) plus accommodation mountaintopexperience.com

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QUIET, PORTABLE POWER

n caravan and camping trips into long-lasting memories with a Goal o Yeti®. These award-winning solar generators have been proven in me of the harshest elements known to man, so we know they’ll work erever and whenever you need them. Turn caravan and camping trips into long-lasting memories with a Goal TurnYeti®. caravan andaward-winning camping trips intogenerators long-lasting Zero These solar havememories been provenwith in a Goal m phones to fridges and everything in between, keep it all Zero Yeti®. These award-winning solar some of the harshest elements known to man,generators so we know have they’llbeen work proven in weredwherever with a no fuel, no fumes, no noise Yeti Solar Generator. some of and the whenever harshestyou elements known to man, so we know they’ll work need them. wherever and whenever you need them.

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• Power phonescharge to fridges and the everything between • Trickle from wall inin18 hours, *vehi • Powerfrom lights,wall CPAPinand small appliances • Charge 5 hours, *vehicle in 8 • Power cameras andinlights harge from wallforinphones, 6 hours, *vehicle 8 hours 6 hours bywall Goal Zero Nomad and Boulder • Trickleincharge fromorthe in 18 hours, *vehicle or by Goal Nomad and inBoulder • Charge from wallZero in 5 hours, *vehicle 8 from Nomad Boulder • Chargeand from wall in 6solar hours,panels *vehiclefrom in 8 hours hours in 6 hours or by Goal Zero Nomad and Boulder hours or by from Goal Zero Nomad and Boulder panels from 6 hours. solar panels 4 hours. hours. or from Nomad and Boulder solar panels from panels fromcharge 6• hours. Power phones to fridges and of everythin solar panels from 4 hours. • Power lights, CPAP and small appliances 6 hours. • Power for phones, cameras and lights Solar times based on maximum solar input the unit Solar charge times based on maximum solar input of the unit ar charge times based on maximum solar input of the unit Solar charge times based on maximum solar input of the unit Solar charge times based on maximum solar input of the unit Solar charge times based on maximum solar input of the unit • Trickle charge from the wall in 18 hour • Charge from wall in 5 hours, *vehicle in 8 • Charge from wall in 6 hours, *vehicle in 8 hours hargers sold separately * Caror chargers separately in 6 hours or by Goal Zero Nomad and hours or by Goal Zero Nomad and Boulder fromsold Nomad and Boulder solar panels from panels from 6 hours. solar panels from 4 hours. 6 hours.

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA › EUREKA 4WD TRAINING

Dedicated and passionate 4X4 training providers for over twenty years whose recreational training stresses involving the family in a fun way while covering the topics required for nationally accredited qualifications. Dedicated training facilities and licensed to use DPaW locations. One day introductory, sand or bush terrain courses: $275 per vehicle and all licensed drivers in the vehicle are encouraged to participate. eureka4wd.com.au

› GLOBAL GYPSIES

As long-time leaders of award winning tagalong tours, Global Gypsies are extremely familiar with the training you need to tackle real world 4X4 obstacles. GG provide corporate (accredited) and recreational training, plus caravan towing instruction. One day recreational sand or bush courses: First student in vehicle $275, additional students $75, and observers in vehicle free Half day personalised caravan/camper towing training: $385 (up to two people) globalgypsies.com.au/training/

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WIN

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SUBSCRIBE TO UNSEALED 4X4 TO WIN

US BON CHER OU V 0 $1

HOW TO ENTER

Tell us below in 25 words or less when you could have used MAXTRAX to take the easy way out.

COMPLETE YOUR ENTRY HERE COMPETITION EXPIRES

5PM MONDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2014 Simply follow the steps above to enter. A winner will be notified via email and our Facebook page. By entering this competition you agree to receive further information from UNSEALED 4X4 and Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures only.

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THREE THINGS

YOU SHOULDN’T HIT THE BEACH WITHOUT

SNATCH STRAP

Get stuck. Hook up statch strap. Have another 4X4 pull you out. Repeat. Get used to it, because if you’re heading to the beach a snatch strap will become your new best mate. Just be sure it’s rated to your vehicle’s weight and used in conjunction with proper recovery points, rated shackles, and a damper. TJM offers a snatch strap kit that includes two shackles, a pair of gloves and a carrying case. tjm.com.au/en-oceania/ product/snatch-strap-kit

RECOVERY BOARDS

TYRE DEFLATORS

Running lower tyre pressures on the beach Recovery boards make should be law, and massive sense on the off-road specific tyre beach because there’s deflators are the fastest not always something to way to air down. Usually winch from, or another they’ll remove your valve vehicle to drag you out. core to allow the air out The idea is simple, throw faster, while giving you a them under your tyres, gauge to read your tyre and they (hopefully) give you enough traction to get pressure. up and out of the hole you ARB’s E-Z Tyre Deflator is a dug. Usually they double staple in the recovery kits as a shovel, too. of most four-wheel drivers. MAXTRAX are durable, arb.com.au/products/ stackable, and can be general-accessories/ mounted in multiple tyre-accessories locations. maxtrax.com.au/products

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–

CHRISTMAS BUYER’S GUIDE WE TAKE A LOOK AT THIS YEAR’S BEST ADVENTURE GEAR THAT YOU’RE GOING TO WANT WRAPPED UP FOR CHRISTMAS.

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MUST-HAVES UNDER $100 Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

› MSA STRAP DAMPENER BAG › HEMA EXPLORER APP Safe recovery procedures are paramount when in the bush, which is why the MSA Strap Dampener Bag is such a well thought out idea. This clever design means the dampener is actually the carry bag too, which remains permanently attached to the strap. Made from heavy-duty 1680D oxford nylon, the bag even incorporates a carry handle and reflective high visibility strips which help with recoveries once the sun goes down. We like that this bag keeps your recovery gear safe, secure, and ready to go when you need it. Priced at just $84 msa4x4.com.au/products/strap-dampener-bag

Whether you’re camping, four-wheel driving, or touring, Hema’s Explorer app is the go-to tool for interactive GPS navigation. It features more than 40,000 interactive points of interest and the ability to create and share your GPS tracks with the Hema Explorer Cloud. Version 2.0 of the Explorer app boasts a brand-new, more powerful mapping engine that improves the speed and responsiveness of the app. In addition, a redesigned route-maker makes it even easier to plan and plot your adventures in advance. Best of all, the update is free for those who have already downloaded the app. Available for iOS and Android. priced at $49.99 hemamaps.com.au

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CHRISTMAS BU

MUST-HAVES UNDER $100

› IRONMAN 4X4 COMPACT CAMPING GEAR

Sometimes you want to bring a kettle and a bucket with you…but sometimes they’re not exactly the right size to fit in your 4X4. Ironman 4X4’s new compact camping gear uses a bit of new-school technology so you can bring the oldschool gear you want along with you on your touring adventures. The kettle uses high-temperature silicone to allow the unit to fold in half, and the bucket uses the same silicone to collapse into itself—making both items shockingly space efficient. The Ironman kettle retails for $67 and the bucket for $34 ironman4x4.com/ compact-silicone-camping-gear/

MUST-HAVES UNDER $100

› ARB E-Z TYRE DEFLATOR

We all know that correct tyre pressures are critical not just for tyre wear and performance, but also for traction and ride comfort while four-wheel driving. The ARB E-Z Deflator offers one of quickest methods of adjusting tyre pressures on the market, thanks to the clever design of the deflator. The key difference of this product is the deflator mechanism which works by removing the valve core from the tyre. Not only will it allow for quick deflation, but the ARB E-Z Deflator accurately measures tyre pressures, too. Constructed from corrosion resistant brass and stainless steel, you know the E-Z Deflator has been built to last, and even arrives in a sturdy canvas protective pouch to keep it safe while out on the tracks. Priced at $67 arb.com.au/products/ general-accessories/tyre-accessories/

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UYER’S GUIDE

LUST

› ICON FJ40

The concept behind these works of art came after the owner of USA based Icon was asked by Toyota to design and build three prototypes which would possibly become the new 2007 FJ Cruiser. After Toyota decided to go away from the original FJ design and take a bold new design approach, the Icon team was inundated with requests from customers wanting a piece of their newold 4X4 concepts. Now, if the idea of driving a brand-new FJ40 complete with coil-over suspension, a fuel injected v8, and modern appointments doesn’t get you excited, perhaps it’s time to check your pulse. Have a look through the website to see just which variant makes the top of your wish list. Starting from US$105,000

› OUTDOOR HOT TUB

There are only a few things that could make your favourite campsite even better. A hot tub is one of those things. Luckily some crazy people in America have found a way to make a portable hot tub so you can enjoy a relaxing soak anywhere you have access to water. The Nomad Collapsible Hot Tub is big enough for four of your closest friends (it’ll be a tight squeeze) and through the use of an interesting stainless steel coil, it can be heated either by propane or a campfire. The entire setup weighs just over 20kg and takes about 20 minutes to set up. The complete package with heat coil and hot tub costs $US999 theoriginalnomad.com

icon4x4.com

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CHRISTMAS BU

LUST

4X4 GEAR

› RED WINCHES

In the market for a hardcore winch? Check out this British-made brute that sports a serious military pedigree. The twin motor design has shockingly fast line speeds of 40m a minute and they’re available in four different versions ranging from models with a 30m drum capacity all the way to 100 metres! So no matter if you’re looking for a fast winch for regular duty, or you’d like to pull yourself by winch power down the road instead using your engine, RED has you covered. They’re distributed in Australia by Bendigo-based NJV 4X4. Prices range from $5600 to $8000 depending on models red-winches.com

› DIESEL FLEXITANK

Fuel is expensive to start with, but finding a place to store extra fuel for those long adventures is even pricier. Diesel Flexitanks offer a lightweight, easy-to-use, affordable option that doesn’t require costly permanent vehicle modifications. Built around an innovative dual-layer bladder system, Diesel Flexitanks can store up to 100L of extra fuel in your rear passenger footwell. When you don’t need it, the Flexitank simply rolls up and stows away easily until it’s time to fill up again. They’re 100 percent engineered, designed, and manufactured in Australia using the latest fabrics and techniques to ensure safety and environmental compliance. This might just be the ticket for newer, more complex 4X4s that need additional range. Prices start at $759 for a 35L Diesel Flexitank, with the 100L model $899 flexitank.com.au

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UYER’S GUIDE

4X4 GEAR

› DARCHE HIGH-VIEW 2 ROOF TOP TENT

Constructed using 260gsm proofed polycotton, double-pass ripstop canvas, the Darche High-View 2 Roof Top Tent has been proudly tested in Australia for our rugged conditions. A tent isn’t much use without shade, so Darche include a large zip-on annex that allows access to the rear of your vehicle. Built on a lightweight alloy base which houses the 65mm highdensity open cell foam mattress, the HighView even comes with a 2.3m telescopic alloy ladder which means there is no need for a ladder extension, even with vehicles that have been raised. Also, to avoid nasty surprises, Darche provide ropes, poles, pegs and instructions meaning no last-minute dash to shops before your next trip. Priced at $1699

4X4 GEAR

› IRONMAN 4X4 FOAM CELL PRO SHOCK ABSORBER

Ironman 4X4 knows a thing or two about suspension, so when they say that they started from a blank sheet to create a no-compromise product, there’s a good chance it’s going to be great. They know that keeping shock temperatures low and consistent means a better performing shock that lasts longer, and by using a larger outer shock body and more robust internal piston, Ironman was able to increase the oil volume and surface area on their new Foam Cell Pro Shock Absorber to do just that. The rebuildable design features 360-degree welded mounts, twin-tube construction, and a 20mm thick chrome hardened shock shaft. Priced from $220 per shock ironman4x4.com

darche.com.au/product/ hi-view-2-rtt-with-annex

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FIRST AID KITS

KIT RESTOCK

CONTACT

“Not just a bag, but a brilliantly designed piece of gear in its own right” - Issue 009 of Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures magazine.

S U L P e c Workpla

Home

r e r o l p x E Traveller

Handy

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CHRISTMAS BUYER’S GUIDE

CAMP LUST

› DOBLE OUTDOORS 200T TENT POLE, LIGHT AND DEVICE CHARGER

Make your campsite a brighter place while saving precious space inside your vehicle with the world’s first illuminated tent pole. Two-hundred-and-fifty lumens of well-distributed light and two USB ports to recharge your devices are packed into the previously under-utilised hollow interior of a tent pole, killing quite a few birds with one stone. On its lowest setting, it’ll stay lit for up to 250 hours—enough to keep your camp illuminated for weeks without a charge. It’s also capable of being recharged by a lightweight, weather-resistant 5W solar panel in three to six hours, depending on sunlight. Did we mention there’s even a mini table that attaches to the pole, perfect for holding your cold beverages? The Doble Outdoors Combo Pack retails for $425 and comes with the 200T Tent Pole, 100P portable light, 5W Solar Panel, and mini table

› AUTO-CRAFT FIRESTICKS

These Firesticks from Auto-Craft take camp cooking to the next level! Made from food grade stainless steel, they have been designed to last. Built around a height adjustable frame and hook, you can control the heat going into your food while cooking. Best of all, there is no need to bend over while cooking, there are fewer trip hazards around the fire, the chance of getting ash in the food is greatly reduced, and the biggest claim of all, no more smoke in your eyes. Capable of handling multiple items at a time, the Auto-Craft Firesticks come complete with two uprights, cross bar, a long and short adjustable hook, and a billy hook for moving or pouring your next cuppa. Priced at just $195 for the kit auto-craft.com.au/firesticks-kit

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CHRISTMAS BU

TECH

› SNOW PEAK PACKABLE CHOPPING BOARD SET

Having a good quality knife and chopping board stashed away in the camp kitchen is going to make cooking and preparing meals just that much easier. However chopping boards are bulky, and safely storing sharp knives without causing damage or injury can be tricky. So how do you get around this situation? Snow Peak has thought outside the box, by delivering a unique solution which houses the knife safely inside a sturdy folding chopping board. Not only does this take up far less space compared to a traditional chopping board, but the knife remains locked up securely out of harms way. The folding chopping board features high quality hardware to ensure it wont unlock while on the move, and incorporates clever rubber feet into the base to ensure trouble free operation while in use on less than ideal surfaces.

› AXIAL WRAITH SPAWN ROCK RACER

So you want something that’ll go hard in the rocks, without breaking the bank? When it comes to full-sized four-wheel drives, your options might end up being a bit slim, but when you scale down the size of the vehicle, you also bring your budget down with it. The Axial Wraith Spawn Rock Racer has all the same bits that your full-size four-wheel drive has, along with the ability to upgrade and modify just like your big rig. It’s fast, it’s durable, and you’ll be amazed where it’ll go. Whether you take it along on a four-wheel drive adventure, or decide to create your own in the backyard, it would be a challenge to not have fun with this beast. Prices start at $539 axialracing.com/products/ax90045

Available in two sizes, prices range from $49-$69 snowpeak.com/products/chopping-board-set-l-cs-208

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UYER’S GUIDE

TECH

› BAD ELF GPS It’s often the smallest items that pack the biggest punch, and the Bad Elf GPS Pro is the perfect example of this. Weighing in at just 90 grams, this simple to use, portable GPS unit is powerful enough to allow up to five separate devices to connect via Bluetooth. Featuring an extra large LCD screen with backlight, viewing the device couldn’t be simpler. The rugged splash-proof design lends itself well to the 4X4 lifestyle, and can even be used as a standalone data logger (up to 100 hours) so you can record your adventure with the one simple unit. With an extra long battery life, and additional apps available, you can stay out on the tracks for even longer! Priced from just $199

› GOPRO HERO 4

These days, it sure seems like we’re recording nearly everything we do. From four-wheel drive tracks to surfing to a walk through the park, it’s being probably being captured by a GoPro, so it makes sense to have the latest version, doesn’t it? The GoPro HERO 4 brings increased image performance, along with the ability to record 4K footage, and perhaps more impressively, high-res 2.7K footage at 50 frames per second. They’re also waterproof to 40m, which is a lot more than your 4X4 can handle. Prices range from $509 to $639 gopro.com

bad-elf.com

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How ERPS Works

Choosing an ERPS System

Play Video

• Prevents Rust • Protects not only the outside of vehicles but also all the inner and hidden areas that traditional sprays can’t reach • Prevents stone chips from developing into protusion rust • Maintains vehicle resale value • Unmatched record of 19 years • of Australian manufacturing • Saves on maintenance costs • Enhances paintwork NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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CHRISTMAS BUYER’S GUIDE

BOOKS & MAGAZINES

› RECIPES FROM THE ROAD COOKBOOK

› GOAL ZERO GUIDE 10 KIT

It seems nearly impossible to think about heading away without bringing some The latest cookbook from Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures, Recipes From The Road, form of electronic device these days, so having a reliable method to charge is the perfect companion for your next your phone, GPS, MP3 player or tablet is adventure. If you like eating well at the extremely important. Due to the nature start, middle, and end of the day then of what us four-wheel drivers get up this is the cook book for you. It doesn’t to, it is important to purchase the most matter if you’re a four-wheel driver, caravaner, motor-homer or camper, there rugged item you can. This is why the Goal Zero Guide 10 makes a fantastic is something in this book for everyone. addition to any off-road tool kit. You can Best of all, these recipes can be cooked charge AA batteries (not included) from just as easily at home and will sure to become family favourites. Packed with 99 the sun using the Nomad 7 Solar Panel, or through any USB port, then power up recipes, this glovebox sized guide covers breakfast, lunches, dinners, desserts, and your devices. This means no more flat phone batteries, no more dead cameras, snacks as well as chapters on the Bush Bakery and the Bush Barista. As an added and you will always have tunes for happy bonus, the book also comes with a bonus hour around the campfire. Bush Cooking DVD featuring cooking The Goal Zero Solar Recharger sells for from Pat, Duncan Elliott, the Flying Chef, $160, but we have a special deal for you! Ernie Dingo and Jo Clews. Priced at just $30.00

To order, check out http://pc4x4adventures. bigcartel.com/product/recipes-from-the-roadpre-order

Take out a one year subscription to Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures Magazine for just $99 + P&H and you will receive the Goal Zero Solar Recharger FREE OF CHARGE (no pun intended). A full years magazine subscription and the Goal Zero Solar Recharger for just $99

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CAPTURED

Gregory Rose

1/160 sec; f/7.1; ISO 100

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YOUR BULL BAR

GOING TO BE BANNED? THE NEW LAWS SURROUNDING BULL BAR DESIGN, AND WHAT THEY MEAN FOR YOU.

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A breakdown of why a forward-facing bull bar can cause so much more damage to a pedestrian. The bull bar is under threat in Australia. Once upon a time, it was a 4X4 accessory firmly in the domain of the backyard fabricator, and largely free of restriction. A compilation of tube, sheet, box section, and weld, installation was simply a case of bolting it onto the front of your 4X4 for some extra protection. For better or for worse, those days are firmly over. Laws and regulations that surround the design and impact of vehicles, and anything that gets fitted to them are strict and complex; something that will only get more-so in years to come. Modern cars have airbags and crumple zones, and are shaped to minimize injury to pedestrians in the event of impact. Whacking something that resembles the Mad Max Thunderdome on the front of your car changes all of that, so authorities are clamping down on those that are deemed ‘dangerous’.

It can save your vehicle, and save you from being stranded, injured or worse. This has become chief purpose of many a bull bar out there, so they have been designed with protection in mind: strength and deflection. Certain parts of the media and spokespeople from the Police and roads authorities have said that the crackdown is a move to get rid of the ‘five poster’, a design synonymous with rural cars, B&S utes and concrete cowboys. That’s categorically wrong, however. Here’s an important grab from the “Bull bar tolerances and conditions” document from the NSW Transport Centre for Road Safety:

The bull bar is probably the original and most definitive 4X4 accessory. It’s often the first item fitted, and many others are in turn fitted to it. It’s what you need when you’re mounting a winch and driving lights, and it most importantly protects you from the many critters that you will cross paths with in the bush, and the bush itself. If you have ever hit a decent sized animal in your 4X4, or even come close, you’ll know how important a bull bar can be.

An example of acceptable and nonacceptable designs of bull bars, under the new regimen.

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“(The law) requires bull bars be designed with a profile that generally conforms to the shape, in plan[sic] view, front view and side view, of the front of the vehicle to which it is fitted; the VFPS (Vehicle Frontal Protection System) must not increase the overall width of the vehicle (excluding mirrors); and to prevent the VFPS from hooking or grazing other road users, all exposed edges must be chamfered and free of burrs or sharp edges, forward facing edges must have a radius of at least 5mm, there must be no open-ended frame members, and small components, such as brackets, must be free of burrs and sharp edges and be rearward of the front face of the bull bar.”

in Europe and they’ve got much bigger animals than us they can hit” is a quote from Mr Scruby, back in 2010. I went driving from Sydney to Cameron Corner and back a little while ago, and the amount of pedestrians I saw outside of cities was a zero. Not one. How many kangaroos did I see? Lost count. I had to hit the anchors pretty hard a handful of times to dodge an encounter with nature – not an uncommon occurrence. That’s not counting all of the cattle and goats, either. I don’t use those long, straight, unfenced Outback roads for commuting personally, but I can still see why those that do want some serious barwork.

That’s the thing that doesn’t make sense about these new laws, and There also can’t be any leading edges something Mr Scruby has failed or sharp points, like big, beefy posts to address in his criticisms. Firstly, and rod holders. They can’t be wider Europe is about as far away as you can than the car or block the driver’s vision get from rural and regional Australia. either, or in other words, a few of the Australia has one of the lowest entrants at the Deni Ute Muster would population densities in the world, be sweating. especially in regional and remote The bull bar will live on, albeit in a more areas. Distances are long, and the conservative and controlled manner. roads are flat and narrow. Secondly, the wildlife is absolutely everywhere. Harold Scruby, self-appointed It’s estimated that between 50-60 chairman of the Pedestrian Council million kangaroos are hopping around of Australia, has been the most vocal Australia (more than double the opponent of the bull bar. During his human population), along with around prolific media campaign over the last 30 million cattle and a few million fifteen years, Mr Scruby has often goats. If you’re driving in regional and called it for it to be banned completely remote areas, you will come into close in Australia. “They’ve banned bull bars proximity to wildlife.

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The regulations might not be as strict as you think: TUFF’s range of five-poster bull bars and brush rails are completely compliant with Australian Standards and Design Rules.

All of Australias leading manufacturers of the common hoop and strap-style bull bar won’t be outlawed in the forseeable future.

Compliance is something most manufacturers take very seriously. ARB have been crash-testing their bull bars as far back as 2001.

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As far as Outback drivers are concerned with barwork, the more protection, the merrier. A forward-angled bar is great, because that means it’s deflecting whatever they are hitting down and away from their cars, its engine and cooling system, and their family inside of it. They don’t want anything landing on their lap, or causing a breakdown hundreds of kilometres from town. And because of the simple fact that you’re more likely to get struck by lightning that strike a pedestrian out of the city, rural folk are potentially losing access to valuable and proven protection for no good reason; protection that might be the deciding factor in saving lives. Thankfully, manufacturers of protection-oriented bull bars like TUFF in Toowoomba have taken the fight head on (or the bull by the horns, so to speak), and have ensured that their bull bars are compliant with traffic

regulations, and meet Australian Standards and Design Rules. All of the world leading, major Australian manufacturers of bull bars take massive steps every year in testing and development, to ensure their products are as safe as possible for drivers, passengers and pedestrians, ensuring the livelihood of an industry worth $300 million a year. We think the bull bar should never be banned. Stopping people from emulating Carmageddon with ridiculous barwork in metropolitan areas is something that should definitely be controlled, within reason. Pedestrian safety is important. But so is the safety of a vehicle and its occupants, and the safety of those thousands of Australian families commuting in remote areas. And at the end of the day, a well designed and engineered bull bar makes a safe 4X4 much, much safer.

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OUTBACK GOURMET

SPICY HONEY PORK RIBS METHOD

TIPS

Place the ribs and water in a heavy base fry pan (or small camp oven) and cook over moderate constant heat either on the stove top, over fire coals or on a bed of heat beads with the lid on for about an hour.

• Use traditional ribs and not the American cut baby back ribs, as they are mostly bone and not much meat. • Beef or lamb ribs can be substituted.

Check regularly to ensure water does not evaporate too much, then after the • Cola or beer can be used in place of water for cooking, just watch hour scoop out a little of the remaining that the pot does not dry out, as hot liquid with a cup. the high sugar content will make To the hot liquid, add the honey, it burn. paprika and spice, stirring to combine the ingredients. Pour the liquid back in with the ribs and cook for a further 15-30 minutes until the sauce is thick and delicious. As the ribs are very rich a light salad is all they need to be served with. Enjoy.

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INGREDIENTS

> 1 kilogram or 6-8 traditional baby back pork ribs (marinated or un-marinated, it doesn’t matter). > 1-2 cups of water (just enough to cover the ribs). > 2 tablespoons of honey > 1 teaspoon of smokey or sweet paprika – it’s your choice > Less than ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chilli powder. You can add less or more depending on your spice tolerance

ENGELAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

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Most modern four-wheel drives are actually quite terrible at being a fourwheel drive. They’re big, luxurious, expensive and you most certainly wouldn’t call them economical. Which is funny, because the four-wheel drive was invented as a utility tool; the vehiclular equivalent of a Swiss army knife. These days the four-wheel drive is more like a smartphone, and a big one at that – which doesn’t do very well when it comes time to open a can of beans.

UNSE

THE S

JIMNY-CRICKETS, TH

The problem really starts with size. Modern four-wheel drives are fat, obese, large – too big to fit through some tracks, unless of course you’re comfortable with removing your paint so you can squeeze by. The bigger they are, the heavier they become, so we have to fit massive engines to allow them to keep up with traffic. Of course a larger engine means it’ll use more fuel, which means to cover big distances you need a bigger fuel tank. Which means you’ll need to be a wealthy oil sheikh to actually fill it up and take it on an adventure.

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THE SEALED 4X4 REVIEW:

SUZUKI JIMNY

HIS PINT-SIZED PINT-SIZED FOURBIE FOURBIE CAN CAN KEEP KEEPUP UPWITH WITHTHE THEBIG BIGBOYS! BOYS!

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On the other hand, the Suzuki Jimny isn’t large, which means the previously mentioned problems…aren’t. It’s small, so it has a small engine, which means small fuel bills. That being said, it doesn’t really feel that small on the inside, I’m six-foot-three, and at no point did I feel cramped. I even sat quite comfortably in the back seat. Then, when I folded down the rear seats for a trip to Ikea (which was easy), I was able to fit a shocking amount of things, which is good, because a larger four-wheel drive wouldn’t fit in their carpark. Sure, it took a bit of effort to make it all fit, but I’m quite good at Tetris, so it all worked well.

Driving the Jimny is a lot like wearing a kilt, in that it’s shockingly comfortable and surprisingly refreshing. Granted, the lesser-cultured of your mates will undoubtably make jokes about your manhood and say you’re wearing a skirt; but all you need to do is show off what’s underneath to make them shut up. This will presumably leave them with feelings of interiority, as the Jimny is one of the last coil-sprung four-wheel drives with solid axles at both ends. You can make them feel even more insufficient at the fuel pump, as I’ve never heard anyone boast about how much it costs to fill up their tank, which can cost as little as $50 with the Jimny.

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Just because the Jimny is the size of a cricket, don’t think for a second that it isn’t capable. In fact, you’ll probably be able to weasel your way to more remote destinations in the Jimny than you could ever hope to in a fullsize four-wheel drive wagon. Why? Because it’ll fit, and as we’ve already established, you won’t need an entire oil field to get there.

engine, though I’d probably opt for a manual gearbox as it would liven up the vehicle just a bit.

The Jimny is an exercise in what you actually need, not what you think you need. The reality is that for one or two people, this mini-SUV will get you by just fine. It has all of the same features like a ladder frame chassis and solid axles that make bigger 4X4s durable, just scaled down for the reduced size. I was surprised to see that the model It’s economical, space-efficient on the I test drove was still constructed in inside, quite capable on the tracks, and Japan and hadn’t been outsourced it should prove reliable over the long to Thailand as so many Japanese manufacturers are doing these days. Fit run too. It might not be the biggest or and finish was top notch, and while the the most powerful, but the Jimny nails vehicle is most certainly affordable and something that other 4X4s just can’t basic on the interior, it never felt cheap. seem to get right these days – it’s fun. It puts a smile on your face, and that’s The automatic gearbox seemed to get along just fine with the 62.5kW 1.3-litre why I like it.

By Matt Scott

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THE FIVE BEST D FOR UNDER

$15

(AND ONE OF

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DUAL-CAB UTES

15,000

F THE UGLIEST)

Dual-cab utes have become the bread and butter of the 4X4 scene in Australia, and it’s easy to see why. They’ll be a comfortable daily driver, they’ll fit in tight car spaces, you’ll fit five in there (just), and there is space for a bucketload of gear in the back. They’re also capable off-road, and are supremely well-supported for aftermarket gear. Because there is a plethora of dualcabs out there these days, you can pick up an awesome second hand 4X4 for a really reasonable price. To prove it, we’ve set ourselves a budget of 15 grand, and scoured the used markets for the best utes that’ll get you out there exploring. NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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HOLDEN TF RODEO Years made: 1988-2003 Engine: Isuzu 4JB1-T 2.8-litre turbo-diesel, 74kW @ 3800rpm, 225Nm @ 2,300rpm Gearbox: 4-speed auto or 5-speed manual Expect to pay: you’re looking at around $10,000 for low kilometre diesels, but there are some bargains to be had out there, pending a good inspection.

modern offerings in outright power, but it has enough grunt where you need it, and the earlier 2.8 motor is absolute mechanical goodness. It’s called the 4JB1-T, and it has a great reputation for strength and longevity.

After 2001, the an electronically controlled ‘4GJ2’ intercooled turbodiesel found its way under the bonnet, increasing power, torque and comfort levels in exchange for There’s one great reason to have a the old-school simplicity. Power went good look at this old Holden, and this up to 96kW @ 3800rpm, and 265Nm is because of the Isuzu diesel under @ 2000rpm. This, teamed up with a the bonnet. In fact, this vehicle is much 5-speed manual (or a 4-speed auto, more Isuzu than Holden, based on the if you must) makes for rapid enough Japanese ‘Faster’ model, before the progress. The 63-litre fuel capacity two companies parted ways. could do with a bump, and there is a good raft of aftermarket options ready You could go for the more powerful, for the mods. very flexible Isuzu V6 petrol, but the diesel is an absolute ripper. It obviously won’t hold a candle to

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MITSUBISHI MK TRITON Years made: 1996-2004 Engine: Mitsubishi 4M40 2.8-litre turbo-diesel, 92kW @ 4,000 rpm, 314Nm @ 2,000rpm Gearbox: 4-speed automatic, or 5-speed manual Expect to pay: No more than $14,000 for a really good example. Mitsubishi’s Triton is one of the cheaper new dual-cabs on the market, offering really good value for money. It makes sense that the second-hand market reflects this as well, showing some great value for a used rig. Seeing as it has only had mild updates and tweaks since launching almost ten years ago, a good condition used Triton could make for a dollar dazzler.

The diesel MK sports a 2.8-litre turbodiesel, which isn’t intercooled but makes some good quality figures for a dual-cab of this vintage. The 2005 model year brought on a 3.2 and 2.5-litre turbo-diesel, but finding a good one under the the $15,000 mark could be tough. The V6 petrol is much more powerful and quite reliable, but thirsty. Look for a late model diesel MK in good nick, and you’re laughing. With the all-new 2015 Triton coming soon, you can expect these prices to potentially drop even further over the coming years, making for an even more palatable proposition.

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NISSAN D22 NAVARA Years made: 1997-present Engine: Nissan ZD-30 3.0-litre turbo-diesel, 110kW at @ 3,400 rpm, 314 Nm @ 2,000rpm. Gearbox: 5-speed manual Expect to pay: as little as $8,000 for a really early one with a 3.2 diesel, or up to $15,000 for a 2005-2009 model sporting the 2.5 or 3.0-litre turbo-diesel. Another aged new vehicle with a seriously long production life, the D22 Navara has become a staple and respected cheap and cheerful dual-cab. Introduced in 1997, early models come with the 3.0-litre ZD-30 turbo-diesel.

Don’t believe what the naysayers claim about the 3.0 litre; although a handful went through a phase of blowing up, there are countless others out there operating as honest and reliable power plants. After 2006, the 2.5-litre YD25DDTi was used, which has 98kW @ 4,000 rpm, and 304Nm @ 2,000 rpm, providing a slightly more modern and revvy option. Sure, it’s an old design, and the interior looks more dated than a floppy disk, but it still has all of the ingredients that make the dual-cab such a multipurpose and practical beast. Being around for so long means there is a sea of options and spares out there, with plenty of aftermarket support. Also, there is a veritable sea of them out there, ready for purchase.

Cape York

Be there. See that. Do that. Buy an Ultimate. www.ultimateoffroadcampers.com.au

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NO AIR LINES, NO COMPRESSOR, JUST TRACTION.

Harrop ELocker’s electromagnetic locking, 4 pinion, forged gear design performs as an open differential until you need instant traction. Manufactured in Melbourne utilising Eaton’s patented technology, the ELocker has a simple ‘drop in’ fitting process and allows the front and rear axles to lock independently. Each ELocker is engaged at the push of an electronic button. Now proudly available from Terrain Tamer.

AUSTRALIAN MADE | 3 YEAR WARRANTY | ELECTROMAGNETIC LOCK Phone 1300 888 444 terraintamer.com

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TOYOTA HILUX Years made: 1997-2005. Engine: Toyota 1KZ-TE 3.0-litre turbodiesel, 85kW @ 3600rpm, 315Nm @ 2000rpm. Gearbox: 5-speed manual Expect to pay: The earlier turbo’d models can be had for around $15,000 with low-ish kilometres, but you will have to shop around for it. If you are shopping for a HiLux on a budget, you’ll have your work cut out for you. Because they have sold so many over the years, there is a bucketload on the second hand market. You’ll have to keep your wits about you; huge volumes mean there are a lot of dogs to sort through. Amongst those dogs, however, are some gems. A great value proposition is the 2004 model that sports the

pseudo-modern 1KZ-TE motor, with not-too-shabby figures of 85kW @ 3,600, and 315Nm @ 2,000rpm. Jumping up to the 1KD-FTV makes for a big jump in cost, and going down one notch sees you in a particularly asthmatic non-turbo diesel for not much less. You’ll get IFS for on-road manners at this price, with leaf springs in the rear and a temperamental limited-slip differential. To be honest, not much other than the engine has changed in the HiLux over the years, so shop around for one that has been wellcared for with low kilometres, and you’ll be laughing.

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MAZDA B3000 BT-50 /FORD PJ RANGER Years made: 2006-2011 Engine: Mazda WEC 3.0-litre turbo-diesel,115 kW @ 3,200rpm, 380 Nm @ 1,800 rpm. Expect to pay: There aren’t many around for $15,000, but they do exist. And they don’t all have huge amount of kays on them, either.

You can get a five-speed BorgWarner auto or manual gearbox, and they come in significantly cheaper than other models out there, while often being equally or better specced. It’s a bit of a forgotten model, but is well supported in terms of aftermarket by your big names like ARB, Ironman, TJM and Opposite Lock. Give it a bit of a lift, throw on a canopy, and you’ve got Built from from 2006 to 2011, Mazda’s BT-50 and Ford’s Ranger provide a heady yourself an awesome touring 4X4. mixture of both low second-hand prices and quality components. Namely, the Ford Duratorq 3.0-litre turbo-diesel donk, which is actually a Mazda motor. It puts out 115kW and 380Nm, which is good stuff from the DOHC electrickery, and many might prefer the more subtle styling of this model, compared to the later T6 Ranger-based BT-50.

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Choose yourownadventure

competition You could WIN... Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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SSANGYONG MUSSO SPORT

If you are going to buy one, you’ll want the 2.9 litre, five cylinder turbo-diesel, a Years made: 1997-2006 Engine: Mercedes Benz OM602 2.9-litre Mercedes-Benz number they stopped turbo-diesel, 88kW @ 4000rpm, 256Nm using in the mid-nineties. It’s also got a Benz gearbox, not too bad. I even @ 2250rpm read that the Ssangyong won a design Gearbox: 4-speed automatic, 5-speed award, which surprised me. But then manual Expect to pay: Not much; a late model I also remember that, sometimes, people make mistakes. The Beatles can be had for as little as $6,000. were knocked back on their first audition at the Decca; Adolf Hitler was Reading about the Ssangyong Musso Sport compiles a pretty good argument named Time Magazine’s 1938 Man of the Year, and someone allowed a giant about why it’s a good, cost effective wooden horse into Troy. And then, option for a dual-cab 4X4. Funnily to top it all off, someone awarded the enough, the main reason why the Ssangyong Musso a design award at Ssangyong rates a mention is the fact the Birmingham Auto Show in 1994. To it has as little to do with Ssangyong as make matters worse, they did it again possible. It’s actually a Mercedes-Benz in 1996, just to prove they were indeed parts-bin special, compiled out of old clinically mad. How you give something Benz parts and made in South Korea. that looks like a Musso an award is Just to get something off my chest, I absolutely beyond me. think that this would have to be the worst looking vehicle of all time. It just looks awful. There, that’s better. By Sam Purcell

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YOU4WD.COM IT’S LIKE YOUTUBE, BUT FOR 4X4. NOW YOU CAN EXPLORE THE TRACKS FROM HOME.

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When Andy Batty is planning his 4X4 adventures, he likes to jump onto YouTube to check out some video footage of where he is going. But he never finds it easy. “No-one names things properly,” Andy told Unsealed 4X4.

It allows users to search for 4X4 videos on its maps anywhere in the world and record videos using its apps to automatically upload them using your own YouTube account. People can also use the site to rate and chat about videos and follow members around the world.

“That makes it hard to find the tracks you are looking for.”

Andy started work on You4WD.com about two years ago and it took more So Andy decided to do something about than 12 technically frustrating months it. The result is a cool new website called to develop. “It wasn’t a fun job,” You4WD.com, where four-wheel drivers he says. “To be honest, I gave up a number of times. It was much more can upload video from their trips. difficult than I’d anticipated.” The really cool thing that sets it apart is that geo-referencing is used so that Based in the Yarra Valley outside Melbourne, Andy funds his 4X4 and the exact longitude and latitude of internet hobbies by working in his family’s where each video was shot is known commercial playground business. and mapped. He fell in love with four-wheel driving You4WD.com is, says Andy, the world’s first geo-referenced 4X4 track as a kid thanks to his parents, who took the family on some epic 4X4 adventures video database. including the Kimberley, the Simpson Desert and Fraser Island.

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You4WD.com was also inspired by the success Andy had with his first 4X4 website, NissanPatrol.com.au, launched in 2010 and now so successful it is even generating advertising revenue. It was dreamed up when he had a few weeks off work for the birth of his first child.

of 4X4 enthusiasts they met through the website and “it was a really good trip”.

You can see some video footage of cresting Big Red from the trip, and of course it’s also on the You4WD website. There are videos on You4Wd.com that feature swearing and some radical bog hole action, but nobody knocking over gates or trees. “We moderate every video to make sure nothing illegal is there,” Andy says.

Andy says the NissanPatrol.com.au site has helped foster a wonderful 4X4 community because it is “familyfriendly … we don’t allow any keyboard warriors or bullying, and that’s a rarity The website already features more than a thousand geo-referenced videos from on the internet. We have made some around the world, mostly found by Andy really good friends through it.” trawling through YouTube. In July 2014 he and his family even travelled to the Simpson with a group Check it out. One of your YouTube videos might already be on it.

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By Dan Lewis

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THE EDITOR’S COLUMN

GIVE FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TOURING A BIG KISS (KEEP IT SIMPLE, STUPID) Four-wheel drivers have an unfortunate predisposition to hoarding, and it’s amazing how much stuff we think is absolutely essential for our survival in the bush. Compared to almost any other form of outdoor adventure, we’re absolutely gluttonous. One quick mention of your fridge around someone at the other end of the spectrum, say…an ultralight backpacker, will send shivers down their spine. But that’s okay, because at the end of the day, I’m the one with the cold beer and he’s the one with freeze-dried beans.

MATT SCOTT

However, there’s a lot we can learn from our simpler, cold beer-lacking outdoor brethren – mainly that we could carry a lot less stuff. At some point, likely between the invention of the portable 12V ice cream maker and the camp-oriented queen sized mattress, we really lost our roots. Four-wheel drive touring (I’m told) used to be about connecting with nature, not finding every possible way to bring the city with you. That’s why you need to keep it simple, stupid. Take less with you and you’ll find that you get more from your adventures. You’ll get better fuel economy and your vehicle will be livelier because you have less weight, camp will be easier to set up, and you’ll actually get to relax and enjoy the simple things in life. Like starting into a campfire, gazing at the night sky, or listening to the waves – not checking your email via satellite internet.

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GEAR GURU ARB 47L FRIDGE

The What A 47L 12 volt travel fridge, designed for four-wheel driving, but with an optional 240v power socket. Ours is one of the first fridges ARB made back in around 2009 and has been touring with us ever since. The Good It’s reliable and so far it’s never missed a beat. The tie-downs are good too – they don’t stick out and they’re very strong. The controls are relatively simple and it would be hard for them to be accidentally pressed by errant luggage or the like. The lid can be pulled off completely, and there’s even a drain hole for easy cleaning. The mains socket is built-in, which is handy. Over the years, the unit has acquired a number of scratches and scuff marks as you’d expect, but still looks quite presentable.

The Bad The mesh basket can be difficult to lift out when loaded. Otherwise no complaints in performance. But it would be nice to see a lid stay so you don’t need to hold it open, and perhaps a USB charger. Summary A solidly reliable fridge ARB got right first time. There’s a reason so many of them sell. arb.com.au

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KAYMAR REAR CARRIER BAR

The What A replacement rear bar which incorporates a towbar and twin carrier options. Our setup is a wheel carrier and twin jerry can carrier with an LED camp light. The Good The Kaymar improves departure angle while adding strength and including a built-in towbar. It allows carriage of a second spare wheel or even a third as you can still use the original spare store point. It also increases storage as you can take two 20L jerries for fuel or water. The carrier arms can be removed or changed depending on your preference or need at the time. It’s also reasonably light considering it replaces a stock part and incorporates a towbar. You can expect good quality from Kaymar and depend on it as thousands of others have done. The Bad My reversing sensors no longer work and now just beep randomly, so current versions of the bar are

now made without them. It also makes access to the rear more timeconsuming. There’s also nowhere ideal for a reversing camera (but there is a bracket that attaches to the arms). Fitting the numberplate requires an extra bracket if the arms are both off. And while the arms are removable, it’s not a particularly quick job and could be easier, although practice makes perfect. Summary If you need the extra storage space the Kaymar bar is well worth considering, and you get used to the extra steps to access the rear. kaymar.com.au/

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KARCHER CHASSIS CLEANER

When you combine a pressure washer with this bad boy, you are equipping yourself to do some serious cleaning at home. It clips up to a variety of Karcher pressure cleaners, and emits a strong spray via two spinning nozzles on the cleaner. I was worried this wouldn’t work too well with a 4X4, but the height is adjustable (the highest setting is too high for a GU Patrol with a two-inch lift) so it can get right up close to the chassis and give it a good blast. We were using it with the K2.180, so using a stronger cleaner would give it more oomph. Getting into all of those nooks and crannies under your 4X4 without

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fuss or hassle has got to be worth it. It even comes with a fitting that sprays an underbody wax protector. The chassis cleaner retails for $179. Go to www.karcher.com.au for more information.

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LIGHT MY FIRE MEALKIT 2.0

CR O N IP T TI H O N

One thing that annoys me about my current camping setup is the lack of organisation and space efficiency of my road-going cutlery and crockery. It bangs around, takes up too much space and is generally annoying. This kit from Light My Fire does away with the confusion, with a terrific little package for those wanting to minimise everything. The main container (two dishes) houses a collapsible lidded cup, a spork, a cutting board (which is also a strainer) and two other handy lidded containers. It’s all good quality, and most importantly packs into the

biggest container like a Babushka doll – making it incredibly space efficient. The mealkit retails for $32.95. Go to www.outdooragencies.com.au for more information.

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GT CAMPER DRIFTA KITCHEN The What A camp kitchen you can slide in and out of your ute or camper trailer. Why wasn’t this invented years ago?

The Good Everything’s in one place. It stores all our camp food-related gear, and quite a bit of food, then converts to a solid table. We can take it out of the ute entirely for extra space, then put it back in when we need it. You don’t need to pull it right out to use it, either. It’s well made, and has all the necessary little designs such as a stove section and locks that corrugations won’t open. It’s good value. The slide rails can be re-purposed with a tray. When made into a table it is nicely tall, unlike the average camp table. And you can move it from vehicle to trailer, so once the investment is made it’s not lost with your next vehicle. The Bad The legs could be a bit sturdier, but most of the disadvantages are

necessary compromises. It’s big and weighs 50kg loaded (25kg empty), but that’s because it needs to be that size. You need a ute or a trailer, too. And you won’t be wanting to carry it too far from the car, so some campsites might be difficult to live in. Summary This kitchen lines up nicely with our design philosophy of having easily removable units when we go camping. It’s a quality unit, practically made by experienced campers and we expect it to be the basis of our family camping setup for years to come. gtcampers.com.au

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LONG RANGE AUTOMOTIVE LONG RANGE TANK - FORD RANGER The What A 140L fuel tank to replace the 80L standard – that’s 60L more, or 75 per cent extra capacity.

The Good There’s no change to clearance or angles, and long-range tanks are something you end up using even if you’re not crossing the Simmo, allowing you to refuel when you want to. Remember also that with all your mods and a touring load you won’t be anywhere near the rated fuel consumption figure, so to a great extent a long-range tank is just getting you back to normal range. The Bad The tank does what it does – increases fuel capacity, end of story! But any replacement tank of this nature will send the standard fuel gauge and computer range calculation awry as the car still thinks it has an 80L tank. So the gauge will sit on full for maybe 2-300km, and then it’ll creep down

towards empty slower than normal, then when the refuel light pops on you’ve still actually got quite a bit more left that you’d think. There’s still 20L left in the tank once the low-fuel light comes on, for example. Once you’re used to this, then all is well and you can just enjoy the extra range. The alternative is an expensive remapping, or use of a second tank to transfer into the main. Summary Can’t really say much more about this other than extra range is something you’ll miss when you don’t have it, and with the tank coming from one of the most reputable brands, I’m not expecting any dramas in the long term. longrangeautomotive.com.au

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4X4 BOX OFFICE

4X4 ADVENTURE CINEMA Just like you, we’re always looking for the coolest four-wheel drive videos on the web, so we figured that it’s about time we started sharing them with you.

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› THE LATEST SEASON OF PAT CALLINAN’S 4X4 ADVENTURES

› THE MERCEDESBENZ G-WAGEN TAKES ON THE CANNING STOCK ROUTE

› HOW AN ARB BULL BAR IS MADE FROM START TO FINISH

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CREDITS Editor Matthew Scott Journalist Sam Purcell Digital Media Manager Eldon De Croos Sales and Marketing Manager Mark Muras Account Manager Allan Goldby

Publisher Pat Callinan Publishing Pty Ltd

Brand Manager and Junior Publisher Kirsten Nutting Video Editor Steven Levett Sales and Promotions Manager James Fox Administration & Advertising Graphic Designer Laura Boshammer

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