Pick-up & 4x4 Pro - April 2019

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LC COMMERCIAL

Behind the wheel of Toyotas Land Cruiser van

JEEP WRANGLER: Off-roading in the new generation icon USED BUY: The ins and outs of hunting for a D22 Navara TESTED: Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial, Isuzu D-Max Yukon

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EXPERIENCED DRIVER DEPICTED

WHAT AR E YOU BUILD ING FO R?

B U I LT T H R O U G H E X P E R I E N C E … E AR N E D O N T H E T R AI L BFGO ODRICH.CO.UK/KM3

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Wheel and tyre packages available Untitled-1Apr1 19.indd 1 Contents

0800 030 6887 www.xs4x4.parts sales@xs4x4.parts 30/07/2018 12:23 08:02 03/03/2019

Britpart are delighted to now be an approved stockist for the entire ARB range of products in the UK. For nearly 40 years Britpart has been synonymous with parts for Land Rovers and now we are expanding our range of quality aftermarket parts with the introduction of the ARB catalogue for a multitude of 4x4 vehicles.

ARB’s range of products includes Air Lockers & Steps & Side > > Protection Compressors > Tyre Accessories > Camping Equipment > Canopies > Underbody Protection > Drawers > Lights > Linx Old Man Emu > Suspension > Rear Protection Recovery Points & > Equipment > Roof Racks > StealthBar Bumper

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ARB accessories & suspension products for a wide range of manufacturers & models Ford Ranger / Isuzu D-Max / Jeep Cherokee & Grand Cherokee & Jeep Wrangler Land Rover Defender & Land Rover Discovery / Mitsubishi L200 / Nissan Navara & Pathfinder Toyota Hilux / VW Amarok

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PICKUPPRO

& 4X4

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE PICK-UP AND 4X4 PROFESSIONAL

THIS MONTH APRIL 2019 News 4 6 7

Mitsubishi Two new commercial models released Jeep Pricing announced for new JL Wrangler SsangYong Five new factory hardtops for Musso

Products 36 38 40 42 44 46 46 48

Eezi Awn Compactible roof tent makes camping easy Airride Three air bag options to transform your truck ARB Two simple additions to pair work and play Davanti Extensively tested, the new ATs are ready to go Cover Truck Smart bed covers, in more ways than one Ring Pocket-sized torch can make a big difference Ironman 4x4 Soft approach to off-road recovery Quick Hitch Towing aid is a hitching cheat code

Features 10 16 22 26 32

Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial We test the LC van Isuzu D-Max Does the mid-ranger fit the bill?

Used: Navara What to look for in any D22 Jeep Wrangler Off-road titan takes on the Peak District Yorkshire Outdoors Training from outdoor specialists

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Tel: 01283 553243 Email: enquiries@assignmentmedia.co.uk Web: www.pickupand4x4pro.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ pickupand4x4pro Instagram: @pickup4x4pro Editorial Supervisor Alan Kidd Editor George Dove Art Editor Samantha D’Souza Contributors Mike Trott, Paul Looe, Dan Fenn Group Advertising Manager Ian Argent Tel: 01283 553242 Advertising Manager Colin Ashworth Tel: 01283 553244 Advertising Sales Manager Peter Topley Tel: 01283 553245 Advertising and Exhibition Sales Executive Abigail Cooper Tel: 01283 553246 Publisher and Head of Marketing Sarah Lowe Email: sarah.lowe@assignmentmedia.co.uk To subscribe to Pickup & 4x4 Pro for FREE: just fill in the form on page 2.

Distributed by Marketforce; www.marketforce. co.uk Every effort is made to ensure the contents of Pickup & 4x4 Pro are accurate, but Assignment Media accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions nor the consequences of actions made as a result of these. When responding to any advert in Pickup & 4x4 Pro, you should make appropriate enquiries before sending money or entering into a contract. The publishers take reasonable care to ensure advertisers’ probity, but will not be liable for loss or damage incurred from responding to adverts Where a photo credit includes the note ‘CC BY 2.0’ or similar, the image is made available under that Creative Commons licence: details at www. creativecommons.org Pickup & 4x4 Pro is published by Assignment Media Ltd, Repton House G11, Bretby Business Park, Ashby Road, Bretby, Derbyshire DE15 0YZ

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03/03/2019 12:23

NEWS

TWO NEW COMMERCIAL MITSUBISHIS GO ON SALE

Van verisons of both the Outlander PHEV and Shogun Sport hit UK market

T

he commercial versions of both Mitsubishi’s Shogun Sport and the Outlander PHEV are now available to UK customers.

Based on the Shogun Sport 4, the commercial version brings a high level of equipment and combines it with a sizeable and flat load area instead of the second and third row of seats.

Up front the cabin includes a 360º camera, heated leather seating, a keyless operation system.

The audio system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Bluetooth connectivity and DAB radio. USB points also feature, and there is even a three-pin plug socket in the centre console. The wheels are 18” alloys, and there are safety features include forward collision mitigation, blind spot warning and trailer stability assist – all of which come as standard.

Like the civilian version, the Shogun Sport CV has the Super Select II 4WD system with off-road

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terrain selection that includes presets for gravel, mud/snow, sand and rock. Low range is also present, as is hill descent control and both the

centre and rear diffs are lockable.

The rear load space measures 1.92-metres in length, a metre wide between the wheel arches and

has a load capacity of 1,488-litres.

Load capacities come in at a 605kg payload and a maximum braked towing capacity of 3.1-tonnes.

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NEWS

In turning the Outlander PHEV into a vehicle that is both green and practical, all but the front two seats have been stripped out, and in their place is a floor-to-ceiling bulkhead with a solid lower half and a cage upper. The flat load area behind it measures a respectable 1.65-metres, and like the Shogun Sport equivalent it’s a metre wide between the arches. It doesn’t match the Sport in its payload, but the 510kg figure it does possess is by no means something for it to be embarrassed about, and the 800mm aperture at the tailgate means it

could still be more than handy.

The commercial variant offers the same unique four-wheel drive approach, with a motor on both axles meaning it can also operate in a purely EV capacity and still have traction in the offing. The four-wheel drive system in the Outlander also packs modes for snow and lock to maintain grip in all conditions.

Based on the Juro spec Outlander, the Commercial rides on 18” alloys and has a trickedout cabin that includes a heated windscreen, heated seats plus air-

con and heating units. A reversing camera and an electronic parking brake make living with the PHEV simpler, and the touchscreen

multimedia system, which comes as standard, is equipped with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and full mobile compatibility regardless which side you’re on in the interminable Apple vs Android war.

It also benefits from the same revisions that the civilian Outlander PHEV received for 2019. These include a new 2.4-litre petrol engine, good for 135bhp, that works in conjunction with the tweaked electric powertrain for supreme efficiency – which now weighs in at a combined 139mpg, 28-miles solely on electric power and it emits 46g of carbon dioxide per kilometre. New, too, are the shock absorbers on the latest models, and the steering rack has been sharpened.

CV on the road prices start at £32,504 for the Shogun Sport Commercial, and with the government Plug-in Van Grant the Outlander will set you back £25,113 – both are available to order from your local Mitsubishi dealer now.

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NEWS

PRICES FOR JL WRANGLER Figures set for when the next-generation off-road icon comes to the UK

J

eep have let loose the pricing for the new JL Wrangler that will be hitting the UK showrooms this year.

The range starts at £44,865 for a two-door Sahara Wrangler with a 2.2-litre MultiJet II diesel, worthy of 200bhp and fitted, of course, with four-wheel drive as standard.

The petrol equivalent incorporates the new 2.0-litre 272bhp GME unit, and has the same starting price as the diesel.

For an extra £1,500 you can upgrade the petrol Sahara to a four-door, but the more practical diesel is £500 dearer still.

Overland models cost £46,865

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or £48,365 for two or four door models, regardless of which engine they use, and the same goes for the Rubicon variants.

All Wrangler models will be available with Jeeps 5-3-5 warranty, servicing and roadside assistance initiative.

Jeep have also recently announced that they will be making a pick-up variant of the JL, called the Gladiator, which we can expect to arrive by next year.

We just so happen to have taken this very Wrangler off-roading in this month’s issue. Turn to page 26 to see how we fared with the new JL up in the Lake District.

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NEWS

NEW HARD-TOPS FOR MUSSO Five-strong factory range bolsters SsangYong’s pick-up truck SSANGYONG HAVE RELEASED a five-strong range of hardtops for the Musso pick-up, which all come with a two-year, unlimited mile warranty.

The Luxury hardtop is colourmatched to the truck, and features roof rails, LED lighting within and a spoiler. The front windows are sliding and the rear is heated and hinged, whilst the side windows are tinted for security. A high-level rear brake light has also been integrated, features central locking and has a patented water drainage system. The rear is also fitted with electronic soft touch tailgate release. Prices for the Luxury begin at £1,945.

Sitting below that, the Hi Spec hardtop is similar in design to the range-topper, with a spoiler, roof rails, tinted windows and a highlevel brake light. It features central

locking but has a manual lock, too, and the interior lighting is not LED, nor is the back window heated – hence it costing £400 less.

Three roll-tops make up the rest of the range. The Tonneau available in black or silver aluminium, this cover is lockable in three different positions and available with a matching sports bar, too. The Hard folding cover is a three piece cover, which can be secured in various positions to allow different degrees of access to the truck-bed, whereas the Soft folding cover can only be secured in fully open or closed positions. Prices for the three roll top covers are £1,315, £985 and £320 respectively.

All of the prices mentioned here exclude VAT and fitting costs, and SsangYong have manufactured each and every one of its hard tops to comply with TUV standards.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Luxury hardtop, Hi-Spec hardtop, Tonneau roll top; Hard folding cover and Soft folding cover

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PRODUCTS

HEADLINE SPONSOR

CONSERVATION OF POWER APB import National Luna’s smart charging system for the UK market IF YOU’RE PLANNING a trip out into the wilderness and don’t intend to come back for a while, you and your 4x4 need to remain self-sufficient during the expedition. You’ll likely have loaded up the truck with numerous essentials, and some bigger essentials, too, like a shower, fridge and/or kitchen sink. It’s a lot of additional clobber for your 4x4 to contend with, but National Luna can ease any potential power problems.

If you’re taking overlanding seriously, you may well have incorporated a split-charge system in your battery setup, helping you power your vehicle and all the extras you’ve placed

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PICK-UP SHOW

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Friday 28th June 2019 COMMERCIAL USERS DAY

on board. And with the DC-DC Converter from National Luna, your dual-battery system will be in good hands.

The converter is a DC-to-DC battery charger and isolator, meaning it will charge an auxiliary battery from a vehicle alternator or solar panel up to a 25A output current. Not only that, but your vehicle’s original alternator, whether that be 12V or 24V, along with variable voltage alternators can be charged, too.

If we’re talking purely solar power, then the integrated MPPT solar regulator can churn out 375W of maximum power, although it should be noted that the regulator can support solar

panels of a higher output. You can also connect up solar panels with a maximum voltage of 42V if you so wish.

Don’t worry about your battery type, either. Whether you have an old-school lead-acid battery or you’re harnessing power from a lithium-ion unit, the converter (codenamed NLDC-25) is complete with a six-stage charging algorithm, alongside a three-stage safety analysis function, which can determine if a battery has suffered any damage or is ill-equipped to receive charging.

Another useful feature is the temperature compensation.

Seeing as you’ll be using your 4x4 in a variety of conditions, the

output voltage is optimised to the current surroundings, meaning you should never be caught short.

The NLDC-25 is waterproof and protects against the possibility of over-voltage and over-current, but over-temperature and reverse polarity, too. A remote monitor displays useful information regarding the system and the current status of your setup, and if that wasn’t enough, everything you need to set up the NLDC-25 and instructions on its operation is included in the box when purchased, too.

Pick up your DC-DC Converter now at the price of just £432.00 Inc. VAT. Available from www. expedition-equipment.com

The UK Motor Show for the 4x4 and Pick-up Market www.4x4andpickupshow.co.uk

Whether your interest is personal or professional, this is the 4×4 and pick-up show for you, with dedicated days for both trade and public. Complete show room experience from leading manufacturers and bespoke builders, allowing you to both view and test drive vehicles.

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4x4P

/4x4andpickupshow EXHIBITORS INCLUDE 4X4 MANUFACTURERS | PICK-UP MANUFACTURERS | 4X4 CAR DEALERSHIPS | PICK-UP TRUCK DEALERSHIPS | HARD TOP MANUFACTURERS AND WHOLESALERS | SUSPENSION MANUFACTURERS / WHOLESALERS | SUSPENSION BUSHES | WHEEL MANUFACTURERS AND WHOLESALERS | TYRE MANUFACTURERS AND WHOLESALERS | TOOLS | LIGHTING | UNDERBODY PROTECTION | WINCHES | BRAKES | OFF ROAD EQUIPMENT | TOWING AND TRAILER MANUFACTURERS | ONBOARD STORAGE SOLUTIONS | ROOF RACKS | ROLL CAGES | SEATS AND TRIM UPGRADES | PERFORMANCE EQUIPMENT | SOUND PROOFING | ENGINE OILS AND LUBRICANTS | SERVICING | GARAGE UPGRADES | CUSTOM VEHICLE BUILDERS | OVERLAND EQUIPMENT | COMMERCIAL AND PERSONAL INSURANCE

FREE ENTRY

PUBLIC DAY

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National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre, Warwickshire, CV8 2LG 10am to 4pm

Saturday 29th June 2019 Register your details at www.4x4andpickupshow.co.uk to receive your tickets and organisers of

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ON TEST

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER COMMERCIAL

With the introduction of the Utility spec, the Land Cruiser became more down to earth – but now it’s ready to get down and dirty PICTURES: GEORGE DOVE, PICTURES: ALAN KIDD

W

e’re already fans of Toyota’s Land Cruiser – especially the low-spec Utility model that came to market last year. The more modest trimmings made what is a fantastic off-roader more off-roadable, as by removing the jewels and luxury furnishings you were no longer driving a car that was fifty grand, but one that could be had for less than forty. Well, here we have a version that costs less than thirty – and it’s a van.

CABIN AND PRACTICALITY

As you’d expect, the interior of the commercial version is a step more basic than that in the Utility.

You’ve got solid build quality and good materials, as you’d expect from Toyota, and a basic, no-frills design. The interior is nononsense, but still has an element of character about it. The various controls are simple and pleasing to command, and the materials feel like they’d last a lifetime.

There’s something refreshing and charming about being in a vehicle that is unapologetically workbiased and simply not fazed by the creature comforts and toys that many competitors with a truck bed bring to the fore.

You get a radio that reaches into the air to pluck out AM and FM signals, and begrudgingly allows you to connect your phone via Bluetooth – nigh on negating whether it’s smart or not. The system is simple to use, and the other controls on the dashboard are all good old-fashioned dials, switches and buttons which make it ideal for the working life.

Behind the driver, almost immediately, is a caged bulkhead.

This has a door in it to make it

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ON TEST

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easier when reaching into the cargo space which replaces the rear seats. Being the three-door short wheelbase model, that cargo space is a sizeable 1,574-litres. The surface is a bit scratchy and isn’t the grippiest finish, so things will slide about to an extent, particularly if you’re lightly packed, but it seems tough and should last for ages.

The two remaining seats are sturdy cloth-cloaked numbers that are both supportive and plush enough to sink into on longer journeys. The manual adjustments give you plenty of room for manoeuvre and therefore drivers of all shapes and sizes can reliably find comfort – which is ideal as the Land Cruiser is likely to be in the hands of a fleet. Nowadays it’s easy for functional interiors

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to feel basic and dated, whereas there’s a balance struck here that avoids that. Whilst the radio and gadgets aren’t cutting edge, they are at least new rather than their counterpart from a decade ago that serve the same purposes.

DRIVING

Let’s start with a bit of an aside, here. In the light commercial vehicle class, the Land Cruiser is predominantly up against pick-up trucks, so it is relevant how it performs in comparison.

When you’re driving a pick-up without any load in it, you’ve essentially got a compromised ride as the stiff rear springs have to be ready to shoulder the best part of a tonne. Here in the Land

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ON TEST Cruiser, the springs don’t have so much of a responsibility and the weight of the payload is shared more so between the two axles.

The Land Cruiser has more weight within the wheelbase, too, and this means it’s spritely and unerringly comfortable on the road. This agility is certainly helped by a responsive 175bhp turbodiesel unit, with the full quota of 310lbf.ft available as low down as 1,200rpm.

Aiding the acceleration in the agility stakes is a positive steering feel through the rack and pinion set-up that is enjoyably agricultural as much as it is easy to use. You can have fun working the wheel on a B-road, but it is also usefully manoeuvrable in residential climes and cities with a turning circle of 10-metres – the VW Golf, by comparison, almost two metres more. Add in a total length a fraction under 4.4-metres long and less than 1.9-metres wide, the Land Cruiser feels relatively small and the grooves on the bonnet make it easy to place both on and off-road.

There’s also a useful display on the driver info screen that highlights steering angle – which will come in handy if you take the Land Cruiser into its natural habitat.

There’s a moan from the engine under acceleration that is somewhat industrial, but the

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peppiness of the motor means the Land Cruiser soon settles back into what is a pleasantly sedate cruise. Wind and road noise are surprisingly limited, with the main culprit for noise pollution being the caged bulkhead. This, though, only makes itself known when potholes or speedbumps come into play, so whilst it happens more often than you’d like (blame Brexit) it isn’t anything worthy of real concern. It isn’t a loud rattle but unladen there is an echo – filling the loadspace will diminish this, although depending what you pack there could of course be rattling tools and parts to contend with. We found the radio loud enough to drown out any interruptions anyway.

Whilst fuel economy isn’t overwhelming – the 2.8-litre fourcylinder supping a gallon of diesel over the course of 37.6 miles. But the fact that the fuel tank is huge, holding 87 litres, means that you’d be reasonable to expect over 600 miles to a tank, even if you were averaging closer to 30mpg.

We found the Land Cruiser to be incredibly versatile, and for something that is formidable offroad and designed to haul gear it’s unbelievably good on the road.

Most surprising of all, it isn’t just good – it’s a great laugh to drive.

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ON TEST VERDICT

We’re fans of the Land Cruiser in all of its guises, and in particular the down-to-earth Utility spec and this commercial version retains everything we loved about the civilian workhorse. It comfortably ticks all of the boxes it needs to – and more to boot – but doesn’t do anything that compromises the brief with which it was built.

It will do the hard graft, the towing, the haulage and traverse terrains far less than desirable, all

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without flinching in the same way that earnt the nameplate its hardy reputation. But it does so with great value and such composure and comfort that its tricky to praise it highly enough. So easily, the commercial version could’ve felt cheap, basic and unappealing in situations where it isn’t viewed as a tool. But this Land Cruiser is every bit as polished as the plain clothed siblings that’ll probably spend most of their service on a commute. Yes, it would be nicer

with DAB radio, parking sensors and a camera, heated seats and all of the other garnish ¬– but none of that is required on a work site.

Importantly, it keeps the price of the truck down, and brings the entry into the Land Cruiser range down with it – to a base figure of £26,636. The intervals for servicing are reasonable, with whichever arrives first out of 12 months and 10,000 miles.

You’ll be better served with a onetonne pick-up if your work requires

a higher payload and towing capacity, but the Land Cruiser will be able to go places that no pick-up on the market can reach off the shelf. It’s also more comfortable that just about all of them in dayto-day life when it comes to the way it handles the road.

It’s not a vehicle that is going to change the light commercial vehicle sector, but for the niche that was crying out for something like it, simply put, it hits the nail on the head.

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ON TEST

AT A GLANCE Base price Fuel consumption Emissions Payload Braked trailer Gross vehicle weight Service interval Warranty

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£26,636 + VAT 37.6mpg combined 190g/km 593kg 3,000kg 2,600kg 12 months / 10,000 miles 60 months /93,206 miles

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ON TEST

ISUZU D-MAX YUKON

The D-Max Yukon isn’t as flash as Utah models, nor is it an outright tool like the base model, so what is it for?

WORDS: GEORGE DOVE, PICTURES: ALAN KIDD

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ON TEST

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he D-Max is a solid and honest one-tonner that’s revered for being to the point and staying true to its identity. Special editions have added luxe mod-cons and comfort, whilst the workaday utility model has a charm of its own. So, with less top-end than the Utah models, but not as spartan as the entry trucks, is there a legitimacy to the Yukon’s place in the D-Max range?

CABIN AND PRACTICALITY

The cabin in the Yukon is less leathery than that in the models wearing a Utah badge, but the upholstery still features the luxury textile. However, it’s not necessarily where you’d expect it. Sat in the cabin, your weight will be supported by fairly firm, but comfortably supportive seats furnished with the sort of cloth that’ll brush down and stand up to father time. The steering wheel is hard and utilitarian but still leather-coated, and the gearstick gaiter is, too. There is more, situated on both the doormounted and centre armrests, plus atop the driver’s binnacle and upper glovebox lid.

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There’s plenty of space for oddment stowage throughout the cabin, with decent-sized door bins, storage space in front of the gear lever and cupholders behind it. The central armrest is in fact the lid to a cubby box and the glovebox is a two-parter – as with all D-Max models. Above the centre console there’s also a small bin, a roof-mounted shades holder and also little storage spaces beneath the seats for a little more practicality.

The buttons and dials on the centre console are tough, old school numbers which are plain to use and better suited

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to a worksite than the slicker circular layout in the Utah models. The screen on the dash is a touchscreen number, but its functions are also controlled in part by the buttons beside it. The unit features a CD-player and analogue radio, but there is no sat-nav or digital radio option.

There is Bluetooth connection, however, so you can connect your phone for audio and navigation should you require.

The rear seats offer reasonable legroom and can be folded flat to secure storage should it be required. USB ports are accessible in the back as well as the front,

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ON TEST

plus the rear passengers also get usefully sized door pockets and cup holders. Just enough to keep both workmen and children happy for limited distances.

Isofix anchors with top tethers are present for when the D-max is playing steed to the latter.

Passengers can store stuff in the seatback map pockets too, you know, the ones that’re often full of gunk and old sweet wrappers rather than actual maps.

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DRIVING

Given the shared skeleton that serves all D-Max trucks so well, the Yukon doesn’t vary at all from other trucks that lie elsewhere in the family – their distinguishing features come in the form of gadgets and furnishings. When we had the shiny Utah V-Cross D-Max last month, you may remember we took it to an off-road site and chucked it axle-deep in mud. We

knew anyway that the D-Max is capable off-road, and we used the V-Cross to affirm that. This month, however, we used the more partisan Yukon for all of our long-haul travels.

On the motorway, the 1.9-litre diesel had plenty of pull for overtaking in whatever gear and was also rather refined when settled into a cruise – a scenario that was helped no-end by the cruise control. The system holds

a constant speed very well over ploughs and troughs and with the controls situated on the steering wheel, it’s a doddle to flick on and off. There’s a driver’s footrest which means that, if you turn the radio up a bit, the Yukon is a surprisingly refined mode of transport.

The suspension strikes a good balance, providing the 1.1-tonne payload stat without the harshness in the axle that blots the record of other trucks on the market. On

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ON TEST

twisty roads there is still D-Max levels of poise and here, when you’re having a bit more fun with it, the louder engine isn’t so much of an intrusion. Well, obviously it

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is – arguably more so – but when you’re actively revving harder, any complaints can only be wrought with contradiction.

Where the D-Max’s DNA does go

against it out on the road is early on in proceedings. The gearing for first is by all definitions short, and whilst that’s not a problem on a work site, it does mean that any notable momentum must be worked for. Traffic, universally not fun, isn’t made any easier by the low-down gearing, nor manoeuvres in general, but the reversing camera does make parking that bit simpler. The Yukon also comes with other driving aids in the form of Hill Start Assist, Trailer Sway Control and Hill Descent Control.

VERDICT

Whilst it’s easy to see the merits of a simple, functional work truck like the base D-Max, as well as a plush version of said wagon like the Utah, filling the space between the two doesn’t seem like a worthwhile task. On paper, at least.

But you don’t drive, work, or live with a pick-up hypothetically on paper, do you? You do all of those things in reality and on the road.

And whilst it isn’t as clear cut as the modus operandi for the specs

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ON TEST

AT A GLANCE at either end of the range, it may well hold tick more boxes than the other two.

If it weren’t for the 18-inch alloys, the exterior would only be a small step above the entry-level D-Max as rather than sporting plastic bumpers, those on the Yukon are body-coloured. The interior, too, has more creature comforts installed but without the worry of obliterating price-inflating leather seating. So, it toes the line to present a truck that is ideal for those who will use it, but also require it to double up as family

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transport – if it can cope with the work site it can cope with a young family… you hope.

Showing characteristics of trucks sitting above and below it in the Isuzu hierarchy, the Yukon is a perfectly viable truck in its own right. It won’t give you a heart attack on site or off-road and nor will it give you tinnitus and a bad back if you often cover long distances. It doesn’t throw extras at you for the sake of it – everything on it is both comfortable and functional with the possible exception of the

Base price Fuel consumption Emissions Payload Braked trailer Gross vehicle weight Service interval Warranty 18-inch alloys. But then, with a commercial on the road price of £22,999 as tested, there’s every chance that buyers won’t be too opposed to fitting steelies if it bothers them so much.

There is a slight element of jack of all trades and so on, as you

£21,704 + VAT 40.4mpg combined 196g/km 1,100kg 3,500kg 3,050kg 24 months / 12,000 miles 60 months /125,000 miles might not be as eager to throw the Yukon into hard graft as a base model, nor show it off or spend long hours in it as the Utah or a special edition, but where it trails the other siblings it is a matter of fine margins and the Yukon would score better across the board.

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BUYING USED

NISSAN NAVARA D22: 1998-2005 The D22 Navara took on several guises during its production run, and even made a comeback after being replaced by the D40. Used buyers won’t be short of options on the market – but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to grab the perfect D22 WORDS: GEORGE DOVE

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W

hen it first came to the UK a couple of years before the new millennia, the Nissan Navara was true to the virtues of a thoroughbred working truck – and was aptly named the Pickup. It was designed purely for a working life with the second row of seats forged with a work crew in mind, as opposed to a whole family. A rather limited spec list also supported a life of graft, but then when the early Noughties lifestyle trend gathered pace, that soon changed.

From 2002 onwards, there were a few updates to the Navara that brought about more power and a facelift in a move that capitalised on the market trend, resulting in a 200% increase in sales for 2003. As a consequence, there’s no shortage of options on the used market for interested parties.

But for those seeking a simply workaday utility truck, there was a king-cab offering that did away with the back row of seating in favour of a bigger load bay and prioritised practicality. This was even brought back to market after the D40 hit the shelves, under the name of NP300 Pickup.

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BUYING USED

INTERIOR

Comprising of hard-wearing materials in a no-frills design, the black and grey interior seems to have survived rather well.

All models featured a radio and air conditioning, however we found many trucks on the used market have since been fitted with an aftermarket, double-din system, which will only enhance the functionality of the cabin.

When the high-flying Outlaw trim came into being, the notable enhancement to the interior included either leather or velour upholstery in both the front and back, heated seats and a CD player.

For a double-cab pick-up, the D22 is among the best when it comes to rear legroom. The central seat isn’t very big and only comes

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with a lap belt, but compared to other trucks – contemporary or otherwise – few can match it in this regard.

For the king-cab models, this obviously doesn’t apply. The interior fittings are equal to those in the simpler D22s, except behind the front (aka only) seats, there’s a limited secure storage space for toolboxes and other valuables that are not to be left for the taking in the bed.

DRIVING

The upgraded version of the 2.5-litre Di engine meant that despite having very utilitarian driving characteristics, the D22 was suddenly much more fun to drive. Posing a good driving position and the bolstered unit

boasting 131bhp and 224lbf.ft, the D22 was the most powerful diesel pick-up in the UK, and other little influxes of power throughout its lifespan meant that it ended up with a braked towing capacity of three tonnes and a payload that sat at 1,055kg for Outlaw models.

This was all well and good, as the Navara performed well on-site and on the commute, but the fuel economy did suffer. Whilst most of the D22s competitors would attain around 30mpg, the Navara’s fell as low as 26.3mpg.

It was fun to drive, but it wasn’t quiet with it. A driving flaw of this vehicle was that the engine was very loud. Not so much an annoyance around the noisy worksite, but on a daily commute or long-haul trip to the coast in the

summer, it can become tiresome, as the engine was known to be loud even at idle.

More of the Navara’s workhorse character was portrayed through the suspension. Independent at the front and leaf sprung at the rear, the ride is particularly unsettled and buoyant at the back when unladen. Fitted with a limited slipdiff, the tail-happy nature of empty pick-ups is reined in.

Another odd feature of the D22 was that unlike the models that came after it, it didn’t have a centre diff, so even though it has a switch for ‘4WD high’, it can’t realistically be piloted in this setting on the road.

RELIABILITY

The D22 Navara was a solid truck, but not one without issues – so there are a few things to look out for.

With the power upgrade came some suspect reliability issues.

Namely, the M-Fire common rail diesel unit demands meticulous maintenance to ensure its longevity. The whole extent of the issue is unknown in its entirety, but there have been reports of the engine simply failing outright.

To give yourself the best shot at avoiding this rare eventuality, pay particularly close attention to the engine bay of any prospective purchases. Check there are no signs of oil leakage around the front of the sump and also be sure that the ancillary drive belt is properly tight.

The industrial gearbox in these trucks were fine and suffered no common issues, however the same cannot be said for the clutch – there are whispers that some have

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO 03/03/2019 12:34

BUYING USED burnt out after just 6,000 miles…

Another issue, that may in part have come from the sudden interest in a lifestyle truck, is that some owners have cited difficulties with the cargo-carrying abilities. Some of these may have been induced by non-commercial owners seeing capacities as just a number and overloading the truck at the garden centre, or something as naïve as that. So, it’s worth checking the rear leaf springs for any cracks or significant signs of wear, but a subtler sign could be crumbling suspension bushes. Obviously, as with any truck, a scarred and battered load bed is also a giveaway of unjustly rough and damaging treatment of a vehicle.

Adding further to this list, there may be a knocking sound that emanates from the front end, particularly when tackling potholes and speed bumps – don’t overtly panic about this, it’s more likely than not just wear on the anti-roll bar bushes. These aren’t expensive to replace, but if you notice it on a test drive, you’re well within your rights to ask for some new ones to be fitted before purchase.

Despite reeling off that list of things to look out for, the Navara is still a solid and reliable truck.

There’s a strong chance that you’ll need new brake pads and a replacement clutch, but if you run a keen eye over a truck and then take care of it, you’re unlikely

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to run into issues. You’ll find the mechanical workings are fairly simple and a wide range of places can offer you a supply of spares.

If you’re mechanically minded and are happy to get stuck in, you can save a lot of money, as both Nissan spares and servicing are not cheap. But, your own time and pattern part equivalents, not so much. If you’re particularly worried about the M-Fire unit giving up the ghost, owners in the past have replaced the original big-end bearings and cap bolts for sturdier, upgraded variants – which isn’t the most expensive or complicated of procedures.

VERDICT

Like most trucks, there isn’t a definitive answer as to whether this is the truck for you, and like every second-hand vehicle purchase it doesn’t come risk-free.

If you get an example with a clean bill of health and look after it (and touch wood) you shouldn’t have any issues. But what you will have is a truck that is more focused on passenger comfort than anything of similar age.

But that isn’t to say that if you’re after a truck to use as a tool in the day and then moonlight as a family taxi that your search should end here. In judging it against the first criterion, the D22 is excellent.

The only genuine grievance is that the truck bed on five-seater models isn’t quite as big as some

of its competitors – owing to the extended effort to make passengers more comfortable.

But judge it as a hack and it is loud, bounces over undulations and doesn’t achieve boast-worthy efficiency. It should go without saying, but if you will need to carry more than one passenger, the kingcab can be ruled out of reckoning in favour of the double-cab.

Where it can be a dual-purpose truck is if you enjoy off-roading as a pastime. Despite having a sizeable rear overhang, the D22 is much appreciated in off-roading circles and can be formidable simply with the addition of a more aggressive tyre pattern.

With the varying models, ages and performance figures that came during the D22 generation, prices differ across the board.

It is possible to pick up a D22 for a couple of grand – these will more than likely have over 100,000 miles on the clock and have probably seen some graft. Looking at examples with fewer miles than that will cost in the region of

double the figure – which doesn’t sound great, but is still good money for a very good truck.

When perusing the market there are a few signs that can highlight whether a truck was originally made for the domestic market or not. This isn’t a bad thing, in fact it shows how good the truck was, because they were only imported to meet demands. Many of them came over from Cyprus, with variation in paint colours and engine specifications. UK versions were only fitted with the 2.5-litre diesel unit, so any with a 3.0- or 3.2-litre diesel, or a 2.5-litre petrol were made for foreign markets – standard green paint and a chrome rear bumper signify this, too.

There aren’t any huge grumbles associated with imported D22s, with the only murmur being that they possess a marginally poorer level of build quality when it comes to the interior.

But whether you opt for an import or not, the D22 Navara isn’t a banged to rights bargain, but if you buy with nous it may as well be.

THE FIGURES Target price (high mileage) Target price (low mileage) Fuel consumption Power Torque Payload Braked trailer

£2,000 £4,000 26.3mpg (combined) 131bhp 224lbf.ft 1,055kg 3,000kg

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FEATURES

TRAILS AND JUBILATIONS The new Jeep Wrangler has reached UK soil, but to get an idea of just how good this latest JL variant is, we need to look beyond soil and the beaten path. So, we’ve been to the Lake District and some of the most challenging byways the UK still has to offer…

WORDS: MIKE TROTT, PICTURES: JEEP

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I

t doesn’t look all that promising. I’ve opened the curtains and there is no lake to be seen. I know it’s there, but given the intensity of the mist and lack of summer sun to burn away the water vapour, we’re condemned to a visibly unclear day up in the mountains, with light drizzle thrown in to an already dreary mix.

But I’m not fazed in the slightest.

For starters, while we’re going to be heading out to tackle some of the UK’s toughest green lanes, the vehicle I’m going to be driving means there is no cause for alarm – regardless of the weather. The Jeep Wrangler, now into the JL generation, has long since been a match for any four-wheel drive vehicle on the market. Time will surely tell whether or not the JL continues this trend.

We’re going to be exploring the Lake District with the help of Ardent Off Road, a company that knows the area extremely well and who will make sure our Jeeps receive a thorough workout. The fact that they’ve recently bought a brand-new JL to join their fleet

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suggests a promising display could be due from the new Wrangler.

Jeep has kindly supplied a number of variants for us to test and our first example is a two-door dieselpowered Sahara model, which immediately feels like a proper Jeep.

There’s that likable chunkiness to the Wrangler that assures you it’s no dandelion of the SUV world. From the outside there isn’t that much to write home about with the new JL, or so it first seems.

Visually, the same familiar shape remains and that seven-slot grille has become synonymous with each and every Jeep model that is currently in production. The American firm is so confident in its image, in fact, that they don’t even bother placing the Jeep name on the front of the Wrangler anymore.

Instead, you’ll see the lettering pinned along the flanks, positioned behind the front wheels.

The attention is in the detail with the new Wrangler, like the lighting which has now been upgraded to LED status across the entire exterior. It’s now quite a bold thing compared to most designs wandering the roads today and

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FEATURES

'Knocking the transfer box down into its fourwheel drive low-range setting, it’s nice to be able to feel a mechanical shift rather than twist a dial'

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with the new JL it’s even easier to stand out, thanks to some of the colours Jeep has on offer. Mojito and Firecracker Red are nice, but the winner for me is Hellayella.

Enough ogling, though, and down to the business of driving.

After a short stint that hints at the new Wrangler’s improved on-road manners, we divert off the tarmac and onto Parkamoor, a lane some of you may know for its various technical sections. The Sahara is the entry spec Wrangler, so if

it can shine in this version then there is no need to fear for the rest of the range.

Knocking the transfer box down into its four-wheel drive low-range setting, it’s nice to be able to feel a mechanical shift rather than twist a dial or push a button, as is the case in many current SUVs and pick-ups. The Sahara version (likewise with the Overland derivative) runs the Command-Trac 4WD system, whereas the Rubicon gets the Rock-Trac four-wheel drive structure instead.

However, both are very similar – each system has the Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case that can determine at any given time how much torque should be distributed to either the front or rear wheels. All Wranglers can also be driven in a choice of modes, namely two-wheel drive in high range, then a further two modes for four-wheel drive high – one of which is the full-time ‘auto’ function, the other a part-time system – plus there’s the usual full-time four-wheel drive mode in low range.

That probably all sounds a little confusing, but the main thing you need to know is that the rangetopping Rubicon comes with the Tru-Lock electric front and rear axle-lockers, a Trac-Lok limited-slip diff and an electronic disconnect for the front anti-roll bar, while the others don’t. In other words, if

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FEATURES you’re going to go big, go Rubicon.

Either way, our Sahara vehicle has been climbing up the trail at no more than a plod so far, taking us up in elevation and mounting any rock or gradient put before it. We’re holding ourselves in 4L as any sane soul would do on Parkamoor, but even so, our Wrangler’s new eight-speed auto ‘box is working just as well as it did on the road to seamlessly retain momentum – crucial for off-roading.

There may be no option of a manual ‘box anymore, but the eight-speed is far better than the old five. It’s also mated (in this instance) to Jeep’s new 2.2-litre Multijet turbo-diesel, generating 200bhp and 332lbf.ft of torque, the latter of which comes in from just 2,000rpm. The reality of this out on the lanes is that our boggo Wrangler is blitzing Parkamoor, simply finding traction and clawing its way up to the summit, over damp rocks and uneven terrain, despite its road-biased tyres wrapped around 18” rims.

That’s actually one of the interesting things about the Wrangler, as both Sahara and Overland models get 18” alloys as standard, whereas the Rubicon is issued with 17” wheels instead.

It may be the opposite to what you would expect in 2019, but that shows you Jeep’s intent. The smaller diameter works better for off-road situations, but actually it usually improves on-road comfort too. Rubber, unsurprisingly, is a little more giving than solid metal.

There’s a brief respite at the summit, where on a better day you could see Coniston Water, home to the scene of many recordbreaking attempts, and one fateful endeavour by Donald Campbell.

Having descended Parkamoor, there’s time to assess the Wrangler’s on-road credentials as we also swap into a four-door petrol-propelled Rubicon. And it’s yellow.

While its off-road ability was never really in doubt, for Jeep to have the success it desires with the Wrangler in the UK and the rest of Europe, the JL needs to build on more than just being an off-road weapon. As we wind around the peripheral roads to the west of Windermere, it becomes clear that they have.

Inside the Wrangler, there’s

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FEATURES clear daylight between this new model and the old JK. It’s far more refined and a cabin which (dare I say it) you could comfortably use for a longer journey… Perhaps the only real problem with the interior is that the transmission tunnel encroaches into the driver’s footwell, meaning there is nowhere to place your left foot.

Still, the layout in here has a slightly old-school feel, and I like that. Materials are good and the build quality sound, even if there was a creak or two from the roof in the four-door. That’s one of the USPs with the Wrangler, though – it remains the only open-air fourdoor SUV and while it may be wet and windy near Windermere, this driver is off California dreaming

with a Hellayella Rubicon that’s lost its roof and doors.

There are other plus points inside, too. All models get navigation and Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto as standard, alongside the 8.4” U-Connect infotainment system. It works well, even with gloves on and doesn’t suffer from too much lag. Visibility is good, the cabin doesn’t pick up much outside noise and there is a very clear rear-view camera for when you want to park up in a carpark and not half on a rock.

Before you reach your destination, however, you’ll be working reassuringly heavy steering that matches the Wrangler’s personality, without being hard work to operate, thanks

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FEATURES to its progressive brakes and a diesel engine and transmission that work well together.

But now we’re heading through Grizedale Forest and about to test the Rubicon off-road. We disconnect the front anti-roll bar via a button and activate its Tru-Lock limited-slip diffs. Is there nothing this Wrangler can’t conquer? In its longer four-door guise, which does expose more noticeable chassis movement, the Wrangler feels like its merely parading down the trails like a giant – sure-footed and unmovable in its trajectory as it makes its way steadily to wherever you point its nose.

The extra articulation afforded the Rubicon, along with its standard BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain tyres means this is quite arguably the best four-wheel drive vehicle out of the box on the market today.

Certainly, I would be extremely worried if I were the new Defender,

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waiting behind the scenes and peering through the curtain to see how the opposition is doing.

There are a couple of things to be aware of with the new Wrangler, though. Firstly, while Jeep’s new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine may produce a healthy 272bhp, and indeed be quicker and quieter, it’s not the engine you want. The diesel has more torque and from lower down the rev range, while the petrol also sounds asthmatic when being pushed. It also started to over-rev whilst offroad to compensate for its higher torque band. And combine this with an average mpg of 15.4 (yes, that’s what we saw on the dial) then really you can’t make a case for the petrol, especially when the diesel costs the same.

Which brings me onto the price of the new Wrangler. It starts at £44,865. That is particularly steep, especially when you consider other two-door off-road options,

like the Suzuki Jimny that starts from £15,499. The only saving grace is that jumping to an Overland or Rubicon model is quite a small gap to hurdle. A diesel two-door Rubicon then costs £46,865 and its just another £1,500 to make it a four-door.

There’s no question that the new Wrangler is the king off-road, and now it’s easier to live with on-road, Jeep is likely to reap the benefits.

And, whilst it isn’t an obvious choice for many, the Wrangler – particularly in four-door guise – offers more off-road prowess than any pick-up on the market and more secure storage. The longwheelbase JL has a cargo space of 898-litres with all five seats in place, but that increases massively to 2,050 if you flatten them. Where it isn’t quite on par with modern pick-ups is with its 2,495kg braked towing capacity, but if a Wrangler is an option for you it’s likely your work requires reaching more

desolate locations more than it does towing a trailer. Taking it with a pinch of salt, the Wrangler poses a skill set that won’t be required by many, but do mean that for some it could be the perfect workhorse.

Add the price into the mix, and you’ll want some tequila and lime to go with that salt.

The previous Wrangler had a starting price in the UK that was below that of every pick-up on the market today. But as we’re only getting high-spec version in the UK, the new one starts at the same price as the blingiest trucks on the market. However, had it cost ten grand less, then the Wrangler with the off-road ability it brings to the table, could have been seen as good value.

But all in all, the Wrangler is impressive – comfortable, very capable and more usable than before. It’s just a shame we’re not getting lower spec versions this side of the Atlantic.

03/03/2019 12:37

TRAINING

GOOD,PROPER TRAINING With experience from all walks of life, there's no better off-road classroom YORKSHIRE IS FAMOUS for many things. The accent, the tea and Yorkshire puddings, to name a few. But another field in which you’ll find expertise in t’region is off-road driver training – more specifically, you’ll find this at Yorkshire Outdoors.

‘The basic training is really just an intro into off-roading,’ says Vince Murray, who takes the lead on Yorkshire Outdoors’ focussed training. ‘It’s teaching about general awareness, a bit on the technology involved and covering basic obstacles.’

The philosophy behind this is that the drivers will not only be experiencing driving in the tough stuff, but understanding it too – all the while being monitored by Vince, who keeps stock of the pupil’s confidence and ability throughout so he can tailor the style of his delivery to suit their needs.

‘One of the key things to learn is that you have to work out whether A the vehicle can do it, and B if you can do it,’ explains Vince. ‘This is something that you learn through practice and understanding that I try to pass on.’

From an introductory day, the training offered by Yorkshire Outdoors runs on through four levels – each of them lasting a

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day longer than the last – giving more time for the instructor’s expertise to be absorbed and put into practice out on the wonderful course, whilst the pupil receives an in-house qualification upon successful completion.

Levels one to four will see the pupils undergo increasingly difficult and technically demanding exercises, where they have to apply the techniques and theory they have absorbed. This starts out with climbing the ups and downs of the terrain offered by Yorkshire Outdoors, whilst coming to grips with how to use the tricky terrain to remain stable and safe. Add in another day and much of the same in practice but adding in how to identify and avoid troublesome ground whilst being briefed on the issues of night driving and adverse weather conditions.

‘The first two days are very similar,’ explains Vince. ‘What is key is that you become more used to it and more natural, which is only a good thing. Every time I take someone out there I become a better instructor, and each time you drive off-road you become a better offroad driver.’

‘The Level 3 Advanced Qualification is much more in depth, as pupils are more

comfortable by this point.

This course is aimed more at companies and professionals who need, rather than want, to drive off-road. So here we cover every aspect of cross-country driving, which involves not just the truck itself but winching and recovery techniques and how to handle yourself with a trailer attached. We also cover vehicle maintenance and safety inspections.’

As many of these courses will be undertaken by those working in forestry or agriculture, the package offered by Yorkshire Outdoors also includes a refresher course for drivers, redeemable at six or twelve months – whenever their company’s safety policy states. But if that still isn’t enough, the fourth and final stage offered by Vince includes another full day on-site, recapping and really locking in everything you’ve learned – plus an additional half-day spent training a new driver to gain full instructor status.

‘Once someone has completed the Level 4 training the idea is that I’ve taught them everything I know,’ states Vince. ‘They won’t be as experienced, obviously, but they’ve had full LANTRA approved training and they’re well set to start building that experience.’

For companies that require

widespread training for multiple colleagues, the team at Yorkshire Outdoors also offer Large Group Training. Be it for a large fleet of servicers or required for a full team before securing an all-important contract, they are equipped with a fleet of knowledgeable and experienced training staff.

But for those of you who are already schooled in the art of off-road driving, the recreational activities offered at Yorkshire Outdoors pose an ideal company day out. Aside from their Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wrangler – which you can take for a spin – they also offer the chance to get down and dirty on Segways or quad bikes and also try your hand at clay pigeon shooting and archery.

‘We aim to offer an excellent experience, whatever service the customer wants,’ shares Richard Fawcett, founder and Managing Director of Yorkshire Outdoors.

‘Whether it’s a corporate booking or a stag do. All of our customers are just as important to us at three in the afternoon as they are at nine in the morning.’

So you can rest assured, that whether you head on up to Thirsk for either business or pleasure, you’re in the securest of hands at Yorkshire Outdoors.

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PRODUCTS ister

e h t n Our S cation o y 75 u b o i t l e OFoPOWER . l 4 Pub b £ CONSERVATION a r l i a f v e is a or onlin T shelf X E N E

S E U S IS

APB import National Luna’s smart charging system for the UK market IF YOU’RE PLANNING a trip out into the wilderness and Z I N E A M A Gfor don’t intend to come back a while, you and your 4x4 need to remain self-sufficient during the expedition. You’ll likely have loaded up the truck with numerous essentials, and some bigger essentials, too, like a shower, fridge and/or kitchen sink. It’s a lot of additional clobber for your 4x4 to contend with, but National Luna can ease any potential power problems.

If you’re taking overlanding seriously, you may well have incorporated a split-charge system in your battery setup, helping you power your vehicle and all the extras you’ve placed

H T T E CAN G

on board. And with the DC-DC Converter from National Luna, your dual-battery system will be in good hands.

The converter is a DC-to-DC battery charger and isolator, meaning it will charge an auxiliary battery from a vehicle alternator or solar panel up to a 25A output current. Not only that, but your vehicle’s original alternator, whether that be 12V or 24V, along with variable voltage alternators can be charged, too.

If we’re talking purely solar power, then the integrated MPPT solar regulator can churn out 375W of maximum power, although it should be noted that the regulator can support solar

2 1 U O Y R O

panels of a higher output. You can also connect up solar panels with a maximum voltage of 42V if you so wish.

Don’t worry about your battery type, either. Whether you have an old-school lead-acid battery or you’re harnessing power from a lithium-ion unit, the converter (codenamed NLDC-25) is complete with a six-stage charging algorithm, alongside a three-stage safety analysis function, which can determine if a battery has suffered any damage or is ill-equipped to receive charging.

Another useful feature is the temperature compensation.

Seeing as you’ll be using your 4x4 in a variety of conditions, the

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output voltage is optimised to the current surroundings, meaning you should never be caught short.

The NLDC-25 is waterproof and protects against the possibility of over-voltage and over-current, but over-temperature and reverse polarity, too. A remote monitor displays useful information regarding the system and the current status of your setup, and if that wasn’t enough, everything you need to set up the NLDC-25 and instructions on its operation is included in the box when purchased, too.

Pick up your DC-DC Converter now at the price of just £432.00 Inc. VAT. Available from www. expedition-equipment.com

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PRODUCTS

CAMPING MADE EEZI

Turn your work vehicle into a mobile campsite with a top quality roof tent PICK-UPS AND SUVs are both very popular in the current market, and they’re very versatile vehicles. They’re comfortable to spend time in, they’re practical and they can store a load of kit in them – especially if they have a canopy or hard-top fitted.

For years, campers have favoured them for these very reasons.

But the issue with traditional camping is that once you get to the campsite, the holiday can’t really start until you’ve done a bit of work in putting up your tent.

This usually goes one of two ways – it’s either an argument or one of you gets banished to a distant corner of the field whilst the other struggles in solitude.

Well, that shouldn’t be a problem, should it? There will always be arguments on any holiday (yes, there will) but with Eezi Awn’s Stealth roof tent, the bickering doesn’t have to start straight away.

If you’ve got a roof rack on your roof or canopy, you’ll be able to

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bring the Stealth tent into play.

When mounted up top, simply unclasp the four stainless steel locks and give it a push and voila, the gas struts open up the aluminium hard-shell. Within seconds the tent is up. The 280gsm ripstop canvas is now taut and in position, and thanks to the unique scissor mechanism – which raises the front end of the tent by 30cm – there is a surprising amount of legroom for a fold-away roof tent.

For further comfort, the inbuilt mattress is made from a dense foam and measures 130x215cm. There is also a 12V socket and power cable that transfers power from the vehicle’s cigarette lighter to the LED interior light and USB port, so you can see to read AND charge your phone to get through the times when you’re not talking. There are also storage pockets on either side to help keep things organised.

To get up to the tent, an aluminium ladder is included which extends to over two metres

and can easily be stowed away for easy access beneath the tent.

Each side of the tent features integrated privacy panels that are opened or closed via heavy-duty YKK zippers, and there are also mosquito nets on all doors and windows, whilst the rear door also gets an integrated awning.

Putting the Stealth down is simple, thanks to the bungie system that helps pull it down and pack it away. Once you’ve locked the

aerodynamic shell back into the closed position, the lightness of the tent’s design means that you barely notice is as you power back homeward, in search for someone to listen as you bad-mouth each other.

If the Eezi Awn Stealth seems like the answer to at least some of your problems, you can source yours at expedition-equipment. com – and a roof rack on which to attach it, too, if you happen to require one.

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PRODUCTS

AIR OF CONFIDENCE

Air suspension specialists have the solution for your truck – whatever it needs

THEY SAY GOOD things always come in threes. After all, there are three musketeers, three goals in a hat-trick and three ingredients in a BLT. You’ll be pleased to know there’s also the three ranges of air suspension available for your pick-up from AirRide. Which is every bit as good as a BLT, for some – although much, much rubberier in taste.

The first of this holy trinairty is Boss Air, the Australian-based manufacturer for which AirRide is the sole UK distributor.

Boss Air isn’t an ordinary air suspension company. They design and manufacture air bags to withstand any conditions, including the red-hot temperatures of the Australian Outback.

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This means that Boss air bags are as tough and durable as possible.

They are made from thicker rubber than a standard air bag, meaning that Boss have never supplied a burst bag in 13 years (in that time they’ve supplied more than 18,000 kits!).

Boss, much like Dunlop (more on them later), specialise in loadsupport kits. These kits are fitted in addition to the existing spring to support your original suspension.

Think of it as two musketeers coming in to help the first one out – all for one and one for all, and all that.

Load support does wonders for a truck that has to carry a consistently heavy load. It keeps the rear at a consistent height (or raises it again if it’s already

sagging), giving you a much smoother, stable ride. And you can adjust the pressures in your air bags to make sure the ride height stays the same, no matter your load, too.

Dunlop, who are well-renowned for making a wide range of rubber products, naturally also make a whole host of top quality loadsupport kits.

Manufactured in Dunlop’s custom-made factory in Coventry, a Dunlop air suspension kit is rigorously tested for conditions of corrosion, humidity, temperature, thermal shock, vibration and vehicle load the bags may have to endure in the real world.

The third and final airmigo is the AirRide Custom range. AirRide have a wide range of Custom kits already

listed at airride.co.uk, including the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200 and the Nissan Navara.

However, the best thing about the Custom range is that AirRide can build a kit for any pick-up, even if you can’t find one on their website.

Just give them a call or e-mail.

Custom kits are also built to your specifications. This means you can decide, before the kit is built, whether you want to raise or lower your pick-up, what your exact ride height will be and what management option you want.

Custom kits can also come as either full air suspension kits or loadsupport kits. For full details and to browse the AirRide catalogue, visit airride.co.uk or fire off an email to enquiries@airride.uk.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO 03/03/2019 12:40

PRODUCTS

AIRRIDE AD

New accessory for Polaris ORVs will make snow clearance a piece of cake DUE TO THEIR off-road ability and smaller proportions, side-bysides can make it to some tricky places that pick-ups or 4x4s simply can’t reach. The little machines can skate like water boatmen across troubling terrain – and that’s why they’re so revered by farmers and agricultural workers the world round. With their latest bout of accessories, Polaris have now enabled their side-by-sides to clear the way, not just lead it.

The Glacier Plow system is designed to be easily and seamlessly attachable to the front of the Ranger. Integrated Lock & Ride attachment points renders installation effortless, and the kickstand means that you simply drive into it to attach it so you don’t need another set of hands to fit it.

A choice of a polyethylene

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or steel blade at the bottom of the plough offers either nonstick, non-rust properties or an unbreakable, tough and rigid base to the plough. Whichever you choose, the edges have the same large surface area and forward-facing corners that enact maximum ground covered and efficiency in ground clearing.

Sitting behind the blade is a frame that is wide-set and made of tough, anti-rust steel.

Adding control to the strong structure, the Glacier Pro HD Plow Hydraulic features a lift system that, once installed, offers an alternative to using the winch to lift and lower the plough. It also gives control over the angle of the plough, so the driver can manoeuvre with ease and finesse.

Available for much of the Polaris range, there are Glacier Plow

setups available for the Ranger, RZR, General, Sportsman and Ace models. For full compatibility information, however, it is best to enquire with your local Polaris dealership, just to be certain.

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PRODUCTS

WORK HARD, PLAY HARD With these on your truck you can drive straight from work site to camp site MODERN PICK-UPS ARE used for a variety of purposes and you often see them kitted out for heavy offroading or a hard day’s work.

The ARB Simpson III roof tent is designed to provide users with the ultimate in ease and convenience when travelling. It will unfold completely in mere minutes.

When fully extended, the roof tent provides sleeping quarters comfortably off the ground, protected from the elements and any wildlife that may happen to be taking a midnight stroll. Spacious and comfortable, both when in and out of use, all bedding can remain inside the tent when it is folded down during the journey between campsites. This frees up vital storage space in the vehicle, and allowing the tent to be quickly and easily packed away. With such a well-planned and well-made accessory on the back of your vehicle, it quickly becomes good for both work and play.

But accessories like your roof tent enhance the vehicle, but don’t necessarily help it. When fitting the tent to the roof of your truck, you’ll have imagined parking it up for the night, overlooking a beautiful

PRODUCTS Apr 36-48 17pp.indd 40

backdrop. But how did you get there? Whether you are travelling overland, using your vehicle for towing a trailer or caravan or carrying heavy loads, the importance of quality suspension is paramount. Designed in Australia, where it is famously tough terrain, for superior performance across all ground, an Old Man Emu suspension upgrade by ARB will provide noticeable improvements to a vehicle’s performance, including load carrying capacity and control characteristics.

Australia’s leading 4x4 suspension brand takes into account your individual requirements with specialist engineers spending hundreds of man hours testing and modifying various combinations in the demanding Australian Outback so you can find the most suitable solution for your needs.

Conveniently, both of these products are available from off-road specialists ARB, who have extensive experience in the field. For any advice or to kit your truck out with the real deal, call 01626833848 or visit arb4wd. co.uk to view their full range of products and accessories.

03/03/2019 12:40

FORD RANGER 50MM LIFT KIT FROM

£1129.78

MITSUBISHI L200 25MM LIFT KIT FROM

£1127.00

TOYOTA HILUX 40MM LIFT KIT FROM

£1129.78

4x4 Pickup suspension for all ride types available in Medium, Heavy-Duty and Super-Heavy Duty kits for your L200, Hilux or Ranger trucks.

Available from:

WWW.ARB4WD.CO.UK PRODUCTS Apr 36-48 17pp.indd 41

03/03/2019 12:40

PRODUCTS

ALL THINGS, ALL TERRAINS British tyre brand pushed new tyre to the limit, and now it can be yours ALL-TERRAIN TYRES have arguably the toughest task in the automotive world.

More widely used than ever, they are fitted to traditional 4x4s and 4x4 pick-up trucks and asked to master mountains, conquer construction sites, pacify pastures and deliver a smooth, comfortable ride on traditional tarmac surfaced roads.

Considering the huge differences between tyres that specialise in those environments, building all of that performance into one style of tyre seems impossible.

Get it right however, and the results can be astonishing. And with Terratoura, British tyre brand Davanti has created what promises to be a truly special all-terrain tyre.

Now available through Davanti retailers across the UK, Terratoura offers powerful, progressive bite. It couples grip that delivers reliable traction in adverse conditions with low noise and exceptional ride comfort on Tarmac.

‘We have created a brand-new all-terrain tyre and we wanted to

test it against proven performers in the field,’ said Davanti Product Manager Gary Cross. ‘We were not happy designing a tyre that would simply ‘do the job’, we wanted Terratoura to make a real impact in the AT market.

‘The only way to ensure we did that was to test it against the best.’

Terratoura was taken to the toughest proving grounds in Europe to test not only how it handled the most extreme terrain and conditions - but how it compared to established rivals.

It was tested by independent testing agency TREAD against two premium AT tyres - both of which are OE on popular 4x4 models and a highly rated mid-range tyre.

All four tyres were taken to Idiada in Spain for warm weather and sand testing, Test World inside the Arctic Circle in Finland to establish their cold-weather credentials and Millbrook right here in the UK to see how they fared in muddy, rocky, grassy, overgrown terrain.

The result? Overall in each

environment TREAD reported that Terratoura outperformed all three rivals in both subjective and objective testing.

‘AT tyres are often used in the farming community, construction, or industries where multi-terrain access is required, such as oil and gas or renewables,’ said Cross.

‘Our paddock testing showed that thanks to Terratoura’s wider uniform contact patch it offers greater traction in a pasture setting, even in the wet while pulling a heavy load, rather than cutting deep into the surface.

‘Its side channels also expel mud and debris much faster so when Terratoura goes from paddock to surfaced road you almost instantly have unobstructed rubber-to-road braking performance.’

And that’s not all. In order to make it a true all-terrain tyre Davanti set themselves an extra challenge earning the Terratoura the coveted Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) winter accreditation.

‘We are incredibly proud of

achieving 3PMSF,’ said Gary. ‘It means that in countries where winter tyres are compulsory a set of Terratoura don’t need to be changed in colder months.

‘It means that vehicle operators can have confidence that even when winter closes in, Terratoura will keep on working, helping move teams around safely and in comfort whatever the weather or terrain.’

Following almost three years of extensive testing and refinement, Terratoura is now on sale in 11 introductory sizes, with range expansion already in the works for later this year.

‘We’ve put so much work into developing Terratoura,’ said Gary. ‘We were not prepared to let it go on sale and be used in economically critical applications until we were confident it was more than up to the challenge.

‘Now it’s time for 4x4 and pick-up drivers to put Terratoura to the test.’

For more details visit www. davanti-tyres.com, or visit your local Davanti stockist.

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PICKUP & 4X4 PRO 03/03/2019 12:40

Ford Ranger Big Brake Kit - UK - PRINT.pdf

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BIG BRAKING PERFORMANCE!

WITH PEDDERS TRAKRYDER EXTREME BRAKE KITS BRAKE KITS

ADJUSTABLE 4X4 SUSPENSION

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Stainless steel abutments.

For the discerning driver who is particular about how eXtreme Brake Kit. The braking results are staggering with the inclusion of a larger 6 pot caliper design, high tech TrakRyder eXtreme kevlar ceramic pads mated with a 10 slot dimpled and geomet coated larger diameter rotor.

Bigger braking surface means bigger stopping power. With the fitment of the all new Pedders TrakRyder eXtreme brake kit, independent Australian Engineering tests reflected an average improvement in braking distance by up to 14%.

Features: • Stainless steel braided hoses.

• 10 slot and dimpled TrakRyder geomet coated rotors 14”/356mm diameter (OE 11.85”/301mm).

• TrakRyder eXtreme Kevlar Ceramic low dust brake pads.

• TrakRyder eXtreme 6 pot design caliper brackets and bolts.

• 6 Pot, 2 piece aluminium forged calipers.

• High grade alloy steel brake pad insulators.

• Stainless steel pistons.

Specialising in Suspension solutions since 1950 For further information go to www.pedders.co.uk or please contact your local Pedders experts.

01296 711 044 info@pedders.co.uk

* Independent Australian engineering test results proved that at 100kmh the TrakRyder eXtreme Brake Kit system upgrade stopped on average 11m sooner than original distances are reduced by 21%. This kit is suited for 18” wheels or larger. Further details available in store and on our website. Suits Ford Ranger PX & PXII Models.

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03/03/2019 12:41

PRODUCTS

GOT YOU COVERED

Stylish, practical and robust too – why wouldn’t you out one on your truck?

THE DESIGN OF the Cover Truck tonneau covers combine elegance and efficiency. The curve of the cover makes it possible to increase the loading height of the pick-up bed from 8 to 13cm – depending on the model in question – and across the whole surface of the bucket. The barrel covers have been manufactured to fit perfectly to the lines of the vehicle. Tailored design and a neat finish enhance the aesthetic of the pick-up – but all whilst retaining the original character it already has.

Made of composite materials, the Cover Truck tonneau is shock resistant and can support weights

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of up to 100kg – some in the range can manage twenty more than that. The tonneaus also seal securely, with a rubber seal attached to the inside of the hood ensuring that any equipment inside remains dry.

The Cover Truck tonneau covers also have a locking system that’s bolstered by side bolts. The locking system consists of a retractable handle directly integrated into the hood, which offers pick-up owners protection against any attempt of theft. All components of this closure system are made of stainless steel so they’re tough and durable, too.

The opening and closing of the dump cover are articulated by a couple of stainless steel hinges.

Two gas struts directly fixed on the pick-up bed allow automatic opening of the hood. Not that you would need to in an everyday situation but Cover Truck state that pick-up owners can safely drive with an open hood at an angle of 45 ° at speeds of up to 70mph. No additional accessories are required to drive with an open cover. Thanks to its optimized design, each Cover Truck cover can be dismantled in less than a minute. This owes to its clever removable fastening system, that makes reverting to an open

truck bed seamless and simple.

Cover Truck also have a supplementary range of bars that fit onto their tonneau covers.

A wide range of both modern and classic pick-ups are accounted for within the Cover Truck range, which is imported into the UK

by XS 4x4. Vehicles catered for include several Land Rover pickups, the Volkswagen Amarok, plus numerous generations of trucks from Ford, Isuzu, Mazda, Toyota, SsangYong, Mitsubishi and Nissan. To view full details of the Cover Truck tonneau cover for your truck, and the load bar attachments, visit xs4x4.parts.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO 03/03/2019 12:41

Landy

PRODUCTS

Can’t go a month without a Land Rover fix?

Subscribe to The Landy today and you won’t THE LANDY SUBS ADhave to!

ARB are the first to break cover with their accessories for the new Jimny SO WHO HAD ARB in the firstnew-Jimny-mods sweepstake, then? The Australian 4x4 accessories giant has unveiled its Project JBOX demo vehicle, sporting a range of off-road items which, while they are all still prototypes at this point in time, will become available to buy in the near future.

Suzuki’s Australian importer worked with ARB by giving the company’s engineers access to a pre-launch vehicle, allowing them to start work early on developing a range of all-new and adapted accessories. In addition, ARB was able to test-fit existing products to confirm they would work on the new vehicle – and the great news for Jimny fans looking to build a serious off-roader is that these include the legendary Air-Locker.

Among the new products ARB has developed for the Jimny is the smallest ever version of its Summit bull bar. This will come complete with a winch mount, which on Project JBOX has been used to house an 8000lb Warn Magnum.

Underneath the vehicle is a new suspension system. ARB doesn’t quote the size of the lift it gives the Jimny, apart from to say it’s ‘suitable for a set of new muddies and improved off road ability’ – which could of course mean anything. Safe to assume, however, that it’ll be in the usual commercial range, which means it can be expected to be in the region of two inches.

Further metalwork will come in the shape of steel rock sliders and a tubular roof rack. You’d need to be doing pretty extreme stuff with a Jimny to put its sills at risk, especially after lifting its suspension, but for any sort of long-range travel a roof rack would certainly be a must-have way of overcoming the limited luggage space that’s an inevitable consequence of the vehicle’s small size – or putting the little Suzi to work.

With this and the bull bar adorned with LED lighting, some underbody protection bolted on and a gear reduction transfer case mod to take care of the bigger tyres you’ll surely want, ARB is already well on the way to being able to kit out a new generation of super-Jimnys. How long before it all becomes available to buy? We don’t yet know – but it’s surely shorter than the waiting list Are you crazy about Defenders? Dotty about Discos? Does the sight of a classic Series for an actual vehicle. To keep tabs on progress, visit www.arb.com.au.

I make you weak at the knees? If so, The Landy is most certainly for you! The UK’s only

Land Rover newspaper is brought to you by the very same publisher and writers as this very magazine. And you can get your monthly fix by subscribing today – for the fantastic price of just £25 for a year!

With your subscription, you’ll get:

• 12 issues of the UK’s only Land Rover newspaper delivered straight to your door • A saving of 17% on the cover price.

• All the latest Land Rover news and club scene coverage • Loads of useful product reviews and inspiring adventure stories • Features on the best classic, modded and everyday Land Rovers every month

And all for just £25! How could you resist?

Simply fill out the form below, including your credit or debit card details, or send it with a cheque payable to The Landy at Assignment Media Ltd, G11 Repton House, Bretby Business Park, Burton-upon-Trent, DE15 0YZ Alternatively, just give us a call on 01283 553 243 or visit www.thelandy.co.uk FULL NAME: SHIPPING ADDRESS: TEL NUMBER: CARD NUMBER: EXPIRY DATE: SECURITY CODE:

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO PRODUCTS Apr 36-48 Landy subscriptions for 17pp.indd TOR.indd 145

and/or EMAIL: VALID FROM DATE: BILLING ADDRESS: (IF DIFFERENT TO ABOVE): APRIL 2019

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PRODUCTS

POCKET ROCKET Mini lamp certainly packs a punch

HOW MANY THINGS are more annoying than awkwardly holding a torch in your mouth and not quite highlighting the part of the engine bay next to that you’re actually working on?

Few, villainous things. But fret not, you’ll only have the most heinous of irritations to contend with once you welcome to Ring RIL82 Mini LED Lamp into your employ. The compact design is practical, versatile and packs a pleasant amount of punch for a device smaller than a Toblerone. Featuring a magnetic base with articulation allowing 270º of illumination from the 100-lumen lamp or a more precise 16-lumen spotlight form the tri-LED torch. A hanging hook adds yet more versatility, and if you can’t light the require corner of the engine bay with this at your disposal, I’d hazard a guess that you’re going to struggle unless you raid a lighthouse. The lamp also has a 7.5-hour action span and will fit in your pocket, plus it’s refreshingly old-school as it doesn’t require USB charging, just good old batteries.

To find out mroe information on the RIL82 Mini LED Lamp, head to ringautomotive.com and browse away.

SOFT RECOVERY

Aussie off-road expertise you can rely on when you’re in trouble JUST BECAUSE YOUR vehicle can go off-road, doesn’t mean that you’re impervious to the perils of driving on challenging terrain. So, it’s always important to travel with recovery equipment on board – better to have it and not need it than find yourself up a certain creek without the correct apparatus…

Being specialists in the field of cross-country travel, West Coast Off Road understand

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the importance of being wellequipped. They import top-quality, ready to rumble gear from Iron Man 4x4, and they’ve now got their soft shackles in stock.

But, being famous for making some of the toughest off-road accessories around, why are these shackles made from something that isn’t even metal?

These soft shackles are actually safer than metallic versions. There

are two versions rated at 14,000kg and 17,500kg breaking strength – which may not sound believable of something with soft in the name. But, made from 12-strand single braid UHMWPE (ultra-highmolecular-weight polyethylene, obviously) rope they’re certainly up to the job.

The lower capacity design features a single splice design with a diamond knot, whilst to achieve the higher rating a second splice was added to the design and the diamond tie upgraded to a class two knot.

Both variations are 500mm in length, thus providing a larger surface area than other options and are engineered with an easy release system. To survive not only the rigours of use, but to keep them fresh and elongate their shelf life, the shackles come in a protective sleeve, are designed to float in water absorb as little moisture as possible and come in a storage bag for safe keeping.

To safeguard your truck, get in touch with West Coast Off Road – exclusive UK importers of Ironman 4x4 supplies.

PICKUP & 4X4 PRO 03/03/2019 12:41

Up to 50% more power Up to 50% more torque

Dimsport’s Rapid plug&play modules are a solid solution for the optimisation of turbo-diesel and turbo-petrol engines, embracing a very diverse range of needs, from the need for increased torque-power to fuel consumption optimisation in cars, trucks, tractors and boats.

Redline Performance are one of the UKs leading mobile Remapping & Chip Tuning specialists and are the UK suppliers of Dimsport’s Rapid plug&play modules.

www.redlineperformancetuning.co.uk 07400 174 815 Redline2.indd 1

04/03/2019 13:12

PRODUCTS

HITCH UP IN QUICK TIME A smart solution to trailer trickiness TOWING TRAILERS IS something that working trucks are tasked with often. Hitching a trailer isn’t an overly complicated procedure, whether you’re using a ball, al-ko or even a ball and pin hitch. But it is a lot easier with two sets of hands and eyes and it can take a few cracks of the whip to lock it in, especially if you’re on your own.

This is something that Ifor Williams wanted to change. He’s worked in the towing business for a long time, producing trailers of all shapes and sizes and is no stranger to the frustration of hitching a trailer. Along with his brother, who trains HGV drivers, Ifor came up with the fairly simple, but nonetheless very effective premise that Quick Hitch was built on.

Having developed the idea for the product, initially to help drivers pass their HGV driving

qualifications, it was presented to the driving standards agency who approved it for production.

The Trailer Stop towing system can save drivers time and effort. And as it is also a reliable way of hitching a trailer with speed, it can save you money on repairing your bumper – and it means you can easily back up to your trailer and hitch it successfully whilst flying solo.

So, how does it work? The Trailer Stop is a plate that fits to your tow hook and sits around fourcentimetres behind the ball, in doing so increases the target area five-fold.

Incorporated into the design, the hinged target plate also folds horizontal to serve as a step up to the truck bed, adding practicality alongside improved functionality.

Quick Hitch have developed numerous variations already, to fit

hitches from most manufacturers – including AvonRide, Knott, Bradley and Al-Ko. They are also compatible with Ifor Williams trailers as well as those from Indespension, Graham Edwards, Brian James and solutions for other brands on the market are being developed on an ongoing basis. This means that before too long there will be a Quick Hitch

Trailer Stop for whatever trailer you use, whether it’s for a boat, horse box, and car, catering or agricultural trailer.

If you contact the Quick Hitch team via their website – quickhitchtowing.co.uk – they will find out which system is right for you before getting in touch to discuss it with you personally.

eurolinehire@outlook.com

07768 900762 www.quickhitchtowing.co.uk ing een us “I’ve b Hitch k Quic ths... it’s on ic!” for 6 m

st Fanatreath Ws’ yn ‘G Jone

Quick Hitch Trailer Stop works with all types of Hitch by centering and stopping the towing hitch over the tow ball – first time, every time. It’s quick, efficient, protects the rear of your vehicle and takes away the physical strain and frustration of hitching.

Down position - can be used as a step

Upright position Ready to hook up

Ideal for pick ups... where number plates are an issue. I.e. isuzu pickups more guides are available on our website to suit further hitches & vehicles (2 bolt only) Tim Shaw (Car SOS)

*Number plates not an issue

*Number plates not an issue

**ABOVE HITCHES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY** ALL PARTS INDIVIDUALLY PRICED

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FREE DELIVERY ON ORDERS OF £80 AND OVER 03/03/2019 12:41

FOR THE OFFROAD.

BILSTEIN B8 5100.

A higher level of performance: The ideal shock absorber when you need more clearance and ultimate traction. Thanks to its longer design, the BILSTEIN B8 5100 perfectly fi ts lifting kits for SUVs and light trucks. Enjoy the perfect BILSTEIN driving experience, even off the road.

bilstein.com

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All Seasons.

All Conditions.

All Terrains.

Davanti has spent years developing this AllTerrain tyre, applying the latest design and manufacturing innovation to develop a tyre as comfortable on the road, on the construction site, in the fields or up in the mountains.

Terratoura is a high performance All-Terrain tyre. Its innovative tread pattern provides exceptional traction across all environments.

All-terrain, all year round.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT WWW.DAVANTI-TYRES.COM Contents Mar 19.indd 1

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