Congratulations! You are now an owner of a 4×4 vehicle. Four-wheel drive rigs are excellent vehicles for outdoor adventures, which you may be planning on doing anytime soon. But before you hit the great outdoors, you must know that riding your 4×4 bone stock may not be the safest option for now. You need to make some modifications to your vehicle before you go outback driving.
Don`t know where to start?
Don`t worry, we`ve got you covered!
As a beginner, it`s understandable how difficult it is to identify which car modifications and 4×4 accessories are necessary and which ones aren`t. But in this article, you`ll discover the eight most crucial re-engineering you must prioritize to have a safe and enjoyable remote travel.
Why Modify Your 4×4
You may be asking the same question. And the short answer is that your vehicle that just rolled out of the assembly line is not specifically designed to endure the rigors of outback riding. When riding outdoors it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Regardless of whether you`re going outback driving or not, you should always take vehicle modifications seriously. Modifying vehicles means you`re changing a lot of the specifications of your 4×4 which can affect its performance and driving safety.
Any accessory installations can shift the weight, weight distribution, height, and aerodynamics of your rig. These important features of your rig affect the stability of the ride, fuel economy and range, as well as the steering response.
That being said, it`s always a good idea to know exactly what needs to be done before any modifications are made. It`s also recommended that you select only one supplier and mechanic to do the job. This will allow the modifications to work in harmony so that your vehicle will provide the same functionality and performance when you go outback riding.
Modifications You Need To Prioritize
Here are the main modifications you must make before considering to drive outdoors:
1.Tyres
This is by far the most important upgrade you need to make for your rig. Believe it or not, the standard tyres that came with your new 4×4 are not suitable for outback riding. These tyres are intended for casual riding and may be more susceptible to damage when used outdoors.
In upgrading your tyres, choose a more robust set of tyres that are less susceptible to damages. Light truck construction tyres are ideal for remote travelling as these stronger, have thicker profiles, and straighter sidewalls, making them less susceptible to damage.
2.Bullbars
Bullbars are the steel railings you install in front of your 4×4. It provides additional protection to your bumper, and most importantly, to the cooling system of your car. It also serves as mounts to extra lights, aerials, and a winch, if you`re planning to install one.
The only downside to bullbars is that it adds extra weight to the front axle line of your car, making it heavier and less aerodynamic.
3.Long-Range Fuel Tanks
Fuel is essential for any traveler with a car. In the case of outdoor riding, having more than enough is especially important.
The quick-and-easy fix is bringing gallons of fuel with you. But this may not be the best idea because bringing a lot of extra fuel will be another extra weight for your journey. It’s also difficult to carry it safely and effectively.
Enter long-range fuel tank.
The tank is installed underneath the vehicle which is good to keep the aerodynamics of your rig. With long-range tanks, you need not worry about bringing several gallons of fuel which can slow you down.
4.Spare-Wheel Carriers
With the installation of a larger fuel tank, there may not be enough space to keep your upgraded spare tyre underneath the vehicle. This is why installing a spare-wheel carrier becomes an essential addition to the rear end of your rig.
5.Cargo Barriers
You may think that cargo barriers is just an aesthetic add-on to your rig, but they`re not. Cargo barriers help make your cargo safer and more functional.
Worst case scenario, when you`re involved in an accident, a cargo barrier will prevent tools and other objects in your rig from flying around inside the cabin. It will also allow you to load the luggage area of your wagon higher.
6.Driving Lights and Mounting System
It`s not advisable to stay out late in remote areas. But you should always be prepared when those instances happen. Installing extra lights on your 4×4 vehicle can light the way when travelling after hours.
The mounting system for your extra lights are also crucial in aiming the lights in the right direction. Don`t skimp on your lights and mounting systems. Invest in quality durable lights that are vibration, dust, and water resistant.
7.Snorkel
When you`re riding outdoors, you`ll surely face unpredictable terrain and weather changes. When rain occurs, you may face several crossings with deep water. Water wading in your rig sounds like a fun idea but water in your engine is never good news.
Installing a snorkel will improve your chances of being able to ride through the tide without destroying your engine.
8.Suspension Upgrades
Suspension should be the last modification not because it`s the least important but for logistic purposes. The last thing you want to do is upgrade your suspension first and then add the weight of your rig.
Suspension upgrades are done to help compensate for the extra weight caused by the modifications; improve the ride; provide extra ground clearance.
Always buy quality suspension. Buying cheap ones can be unsafe during rigorous and long journeys.
Takeaway
Outback riding in your 4×4 rig is an extremely thrilling experience. Because of the unpredictable conditions outdoors, safety should always be your top priority. To ensure that your vehicle will take you on a safe and exciting journey, consider the modifications listed above. Good luck on your first ride!
