BUSHPROOF YOUR 4WD!

As 4WDers, we’re always on the lookout for those tips and tricks that’ll help save a buck or an hour. Whatever you can save translates to more money to put fuel in the tank, and more time to burn it.

That’s why we decided it was time to put together the most comprehensive collection of tips, tricks and secrets bound to save you real money and time. We crossed the country and talked to experts that specialise in just about every facet of 4WDs. We spoke to diesel mechanics, suspension shops, auto electricians, tyre experts, exhaust shops, and just about everyone else to draw out their hardlearned secrets to pass onto you.

Consider this your direct line to the best no-bull information you can’t get anywhere else! These essential tips apply to any 4WD, and are guaranteed to make any 4WD bushproof.

Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be able to spend less time with a spanner in hand and more time out there using your 4WD how it’s meant to be used.

IN THE BEGINNING

No-one wants to spend their hard-earned cash on a product and then find out later that it’s wrong for their application. Here are some tips to keep more money in your wallet when you’re customising your 4WD.

SHOP AROUND AND SAVE

Great places to hunt for bargains on the internet are dedicated 4WD forums like the 4WD Action forums. There’s usually a bit of competition for prized parts, but a little bit of perseverance could land you all the second-hand gear you want at a fraction of the usual cost.

Before handing over any cash, make sure you do your research and find out exactly what the part is worth, and always view it in person first. This way you won’t get burnt buying faulty parts and accessories. With over 50,000 members on the 4WD Action forums, there’s bound to be someone selling something you want.

BE ASSURED THAT YOU’RE INSURED

Before undertaking any major works on your 4WD, make sure that your insurance will cover you. Not informing your insurance provider can be a costly mistake if you do have an accident, as insurance companies are businesses that (regardless of what their advertisements say) are only concerned about one thing – the bottom line.

If they can get out of paying a claim, then they will. Before you splash out on gear, talk to an engineering authority or your local transport department, as well as your insurance company, to get an okay to proceed. And hey, if your insurance company won’t come to the party, there are plenty of others out there that will.