When you spend weekends building, modifying and testing a 4×4, insurance stops being just a formality. 

For us here at 4X4 Australia, it’s part of the build, and part of being able to push vehicles hard without worrying about the financial fallout if something goes wrong.  Over the years we’ve run multiple project vehicles, each packed with the best modifications, accessories and touring gear available in Australia. Protecting these rigs isn’t as simple as ticking “comprehensive” on a standard car policy, and that’s why we’ve consistently used Club 4X4 Insurance.

Builds, modifications and real-world value

Our project vehicles never stay stock for long. They’re lifted, reinforced, packed with drawers, rooftop tents, bull bars, winches, lighting, and gear that makes them capable off-road. 

Club 4X4 allows us to insure modifications and accessories at agreed value, including installation costs. That clarity has meant that if a rig takes a hard hit on a track, we’re not left partially uncovered.

One of our most significant builds in recent years has been the 79 Series, a rig we chose not just for its legendary durability but also because it represents the pinnacle of what a modern 70 Series should be for tough touring and heavy use. This VDJ79 is one of the last V8 diesel 79s offered in Australia, and from the outset it’s been treated as a working project designed to be lived in and pushed hard off-road. 

From a Terrain Tamer suspension and GVM upgrade to carefully selected protection, recovery gear and touring accessories, every stage of this build has been about real-world capability, not showroom shine. To protect all of this investment – both the base vehicle and the modifications – we’ve relied on Club 4X4, which recognises aftermarket upgrades, off-road use and recovery costs. Having a policy that covers the full build allows us to test the LandCruiser in demanding environments with confidence, knowing both the vehicle and our work are fully insured.

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Off-road use and recovery

Off-road driving is treated as normal use. Whether it’s tracks, beaches, fire trails or remote touring routes, Club 4X4 recognises that 4x4s exist to go off the bitumen. 

Club 4X4 coverage applies wherever you’re legally allowed to drive in Australia. Combined with included off-road recovery cover, we can tackle soft sand, mud or creek crossings without fretting about unexpected costs. For rigs heavily loaded with gear and modifications, that support is invaluable.

Touring and personal gear are also covered. Fridges, camping equipment, recovery kits, and tools are part of the package for any serious project build. Club 4X4’s personal effects cover protects this equipment even when it isn’t bolted to the vehicle, giving an extra layer of security on extended trips. What Club 4X4 does exceptionally well is align its policies with how we actually build and drive our vehicles.

The takeaway for project builds

Across years of testing and touring, using Club 4X4 has meant our project vehicles are insured for real-world use: Modifications are valued correctly, off-road incidents are recognised, recovery is supported, and gear is protected. For builds like our 79 Series, that’s not just peace of mind, it’s a practical necessity. 

When you’re pushing rigs hard, living out of them, and testing the limits of what a modern 4×4 can do, having insurance that actually understands your vehicle and how you use it makes a big difference.

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