This article first appeared in the April 2012 issue of 4×4 Australia.
Family holiday destinations don’t get much better than the south-west coast of Western Australia where old-growth forests meet the sea; providing the ultimate sea-change, tree-change adventure.
Walpole-Nornalup National Park (NP) is part of the Walpole Wilderness Area, incorporating a number of national parks and conservation reserves. To learn more about the massive trees that populate these parts, head to the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, a 600m walkway rising to around 40m from the forest floor. It’s similar to a modern day suspension bridge that moves underfoot, limiting foot traffic per span. Beyond the treetop walk, a paved walkway known as the Ancient Empire weaves through the forest, identifying old-growth tingle and karri trees up to 300 years old.
As far as Botany 101 goes, both karri and tingles are eucalypt species, with the red tingle only found in the Walpole-Nornalup NP. The rough barked red tingles can live for more than 400 years and boast the largest girth of all eucalypts, growing to 26m with their height peaking at 75m. While tingle trees are often hollowed out by fire and fungal attack, their robust structure allows them to continue growing. In comparison, the smooth-barked karri tree grows up to 90 metres, making it the tallest tree in Western Australia and one of the world’s tallest hardwood trees.
The coastline in these parts is equally spectacular, from the ocean beach of Conspicuous Cliff to the inlets of Walpole or Nornalup – ideal for swimming, boating and fishing.
There are a number of sandy four-wheel drive tracks that snake down to the beach worthy of exploration; most have traction aids such as rubber matting or sleepers where required. East of Walpole at Peaceful Bay, take the Soft Beach Track off Peaceful Bay Road. Soft sandy tracks follow the coastline to Point Irwin, and then across the headland to The Gap.
Soft Beach and Groper Bay are good places to swim or fish; Cape Howe and Castle Rock are better for views of the ocean or a picnic lunch; The Gap facing the ocean is best for fishing only. To complete the circuit follow the Gap Track back to Peaceful Bay. Alternatively, Rame Head Track leads down to Salmon Camp Beach and Rame Head. Both are good fishing spots, but getting off the beach can be difficult.
If hot showers and flushing toilets are among the family essentials, the Coalmine Beach Caravan Park within the Walpole-Nornalup NP is easily the pick. With beach frontage and plenty of shade, the bush setting offers the best of both worlds.
As far as bush camps are concerned, Banksia Camp on the edge of the D´NP is hard to beat. Take the South Western Highway out of Walpole for 12km and turn left at the unsealed Mandalay Beach Road. Within a few minutes you’ll reach Crystal Springs, which is worth a look. Keep going along Mandalay Beach Road for around 7km to the turn-off for Banksia Camp (right). Drop tyre pressures here for the onward journey, rising initially over a soft dune, and then weaving through coastal vegetation to the camp (2km).
The campground is geared for swags and tents, with sites surrounded by bollards. One site is provided for camper trailers but could fit two at a push. An attractive corrugated iron hut known as Banksia Lodge offers communal living space for 12 people, with four bedrooms and a large undercover living area. A cold shower looks after bathing duties and a central long-drop caters for all campers. The campground is protected from the Southern Ocean, making it a great spot for fishing, surfing or simply relaxing around the camp.
There are plenty more four-wheel drive tracks around these parts to explore. Tracks lead to Bottleneck Bay, Cliffy Head and Fishermens Track to Broke Inlet (closed from June to December); a great place to drop in a tinnie.
With so much to see and do, from the towering old-growth forests to the coastal fringes, you may find a weekend trip barely scratches the surface with a couple of extra days needed to fully absorb the beauty of this wonderfully unique seaside environment.
TRAVEL PLANNER
WHERE: Walpole-Nornalup National Park is 121km west of Albany and 355km south of Perth on the south-west coast of Western Australia.
PERMITS AND ACCESS: Walpole-Nornalup NP, no park entry fee. D´Entrecasteaux NP (Banksia Camp) $11 per vehicle, day use or camping.
CAMPING: Crystal Springs (long-drop toilet, wood barbecue and cold water); Banksia Camp (long-drop toilet, water, cold shower, hut); $7 adult, $2 child per night. (dec.wa.gov.au). Coalmine Beach Holiday Park, unpowered sites from $27/night, 08 9840 1026. (coalminebeach.com.au.)
WHAT TO TAKE: Insect repellent, drinking water, fishing gear, binoculars, recovery gear, compressor and tyre gauge.
SUPPLIES: Walpole has most facilities including fuel, supermarket, bakery, information centre, vehicle and tyre repairs. Pemberton or Denmark have more services.
TRIP STANDARD: Easy to medium. The beaches and coastal tracks can be very soft. If travelling alone, reduce tyre pressures and travel above the high water line.
The team at Ironman 4×4 has, after 18 months of extensive engineering, development and testing, gained formal approval for its suspension kits to be legally installed in 10 4×4 dual-cab utes in Germany and the rest of Europe, adding to its extensive list of countries (more than 160) where its equipment is sold.
This is a first for an Aussie aftermarket company in regards to suspension, with Ironman 4×4’s kits covering Toyota’s HiLux and Prado, Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi L200 (Triton), Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger, VW Amarok, Merc X-Class, Fiat Fullback (a Triton clone), and the Renault Alaskan (Navara).
Approval from Germany’s TUV Nord and the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) means that not only German customers can benefit from the Ironman 4×4 suspension kit range being legal for fitment (thanks to KBA approval), but owners of these popular dual cabs throughout the rest of Europe can also run these kits legally, as a direct result of TUV Nord approval.
This is a huge achievement by the team at Ironman 4×4 and shows that Aussie companies can compete on the international market when it comes to offering top-notch, well-engineered aftermarket suspension and other accessories.
THE ACCC has issued a recall for 11 Mazda BT-50s (UR) sold nationally from April 2018, due to a steering fault.
The select group of BT-50s have a potential issue with the “welding of the lower intermediate steering shaft”, according to the recall report.
The VIN numbers of affected vehicles can be found here.
If the welding of the shaft fails, the driver may experience a sudden, unexpected loss of steering, which obviously poses a serious road hazard.
It’s no surprise the BT-50 shares its underpinnings with Ford’s Ranger, and select MY18 Rangers (and Everests) were also hit yesterday with a steering shaft weld recall.
The 11 owners of affected BT-50s will be contacted by Mazda Australia (if they haven’t already), where they’ll be advised to take their vehicle to a Mazda dealer for inspection and replacement – if required – at no charge.
For more information, customers can call Mazda Customer Support on 1800 034 411.
For some, a 4×4 rig is one of the most dependable things in their lives, so every once in a while, it is good to show it some proper tender loving care.
From dual-battery systems and battery chargers to keep electric loads from frying its circuits, to a simple touch-up paint kit to bring back its showroom lustre, these new 4×4 gear is what you need to keep your rig tip-top and going.
Piranha dual-battery kits – Utes
Aftermarket experts are offering some fantastic kit for 4×4 dual cabs. Piranha Off Road currently offers dual-battery kits for five of the most popular dual cabs: Ford Ranger PX, Toyota HiLux 2.8TD, Holden Colorado (2011-onwards), Isuzu D-Max (2012-onwards) and the Mitsubishi Triton MQ (2016-onwards).
Each kit comprises battery tray, cable kit, fuse box, battery management unit, and (in some, but not all kits) a battery manager mounting bracket, plus monitor. It’s basically everything you need; just add the battery.
RRP: From $485 Website: www.piranhaoffroad.com.au
Projecta Intelli-charger IDC45
This new 45amp 12-Volt, three-stage DC/solar battery charger includes many of the same features of Projecta’s IDC25, but offers a much larger output. The IDC45 can charge simultaneously from alternator and solar inputs and can switch between both of these inputs without any need to manually switch it over.
The IDC45 features dual charging modes for both conventional and the newer ‘smart’ alternators now on the market, plus it can be used as an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar controller. It features over/under voltage protection, over-temp protection, anti-sparking and reverse connection protection.
The unit is designed at extreme temps (up to 80°C at a reduced charge rate) and can support multi-chemistry batteries, such as GEL, AGM, WET and calcium. The IDC45 is tough, too; shock, vibration and dustproofing to IP67 means this thing can go wherever your rig does. Covered by a two-year warranty.
Website: www.projecta.com.au
Dr Colorchip paint-chip repair kits
If the panels on your four-wheeler are looking a bit worse for wear, perhaps it’s time for a little touch-up.
If a head-to-tail paintjob is more than what’s required, then Dr. Colorchip’s paint-chip repair kits are what’s required for pesky minor paint chips and road rash. Dr. Colorchip uses a blend of high-quality automotive tints and chemicals to create a unique formula that’ll get your 4×4 looking brand-new again.
A simple two-step process means any DIYer can do the job, and the end result will protect your car from rust and other long-term damage. Check out the website for a complete list of products and prices.
Website: www.drcolorchip.com.au
A VIDEO (below) has been making the rounds recently of an out-of-control RAM pick-up slamming into a concrete barrier, inches away from two pedestrians.
The unnerving footage, captured outside a donut shop in Auburn, Washington, USA, clearly shows a concrete barrier saving the lives of two helpless people.
According to Komo News, a Seattle-based news radio station, the barriers were installed by the donut shop due to several previous crashes occurring at the same spot.
Reports indicate that the male driver of the pick-up was taken into custody under suspicion of DUI (driving under the influence).
Concrete bollards mightn’t look pretty, but this footage proves they can be life-saving.
A RECALL has been issued for select Ford Rangers and Ford Everests built in 2018, due to a steering shaft weld fault.
The affected Everests were built between March 16 and April 6, 2018; the affected Rangers were built between March 18 and April 11, 2018.
For a full VIN list of affected vehicles, click here:
The recall, issued by the ACCC, is due to a faulty intermediate steering shaft weld, which may not meet required specifications in certain vehicles. According to the recall report this u201cmay cause the steering column to detach from the steering gearu201d.
The obvious concern is that a driver may experience a loss in steering control, which would increase the risk of an accident or injury.
Owners will be contacted by Ford, advising them to contact their local Ford dealership for inspection. “Dealers will inspect the intermediate steering shaft weld and replace the shaft if the weld fails the inspection,” the report reads.
For more info, contact a Ford dealer or call Ford’s Customer Relationship Centre on 1800 503 672.
There are plenty of things you shouldn’t leave home for the trail without. Things like maps, food and beverages, a good book, and may be a place to cop forty winks can make any trip more enjoyable.
Packing all these essentials into your rig can be a challenge in its own right, especially when it comes to getting it organised for your convenience on the move.
These new 4×4 gear might be just what you are looking for to keep your travel gear in a neat and organised manner, no matter where you are headed.
MSA 4X4 Tourer and Basket packs
MSA 4X4’s new Tourer and Basket packs enable you to extend the storage capacity of your 4×4, and they’re available in 10 different sizes and are especially handy for light, bulky items such as camp chairs, etc.
The packs are manufactured using tough 15-ounce poly/cotton canvas that has been treated with DuPont Teflon Repel, thus making them 100 per cent breathable (to eliminate moisture inside) and waterproof. Robust YKK chunky zips feature double lockable metal sliders on three sides of the pack, while the 50mm Velcro dust seal further protects the zip. The 50mm harness system and integrated anti-flap design means you can cinch down the bag tight to reduce wind drag.
The base features heavy-duty 2mm laminated PVC and canvas. Plus, there’s a separate storage bag and a removable rain, dust and scrub resistant cover. Winner!
RRP: $368 to $498 Website: www.msa4x4.com.au
Mr Swagman seat organiser
This seat organiser fits to the back of the front seats of a vehicle and comprises three small and medium pockets, two large, and three extra-large pockets.
Whether it is stuffed toys, games, phones, sunglasses, cameras, tablets or books, you’ll be stoked with the amount of storage space. You can also store water bottles and snacks, guaranteeing a trip with minimal noise emission from the rear-seat occupants.
The seat organiser is easily removed for hose-out/cleaning, and can be reverse-mounted to the front passenger seat if you’re driving solo. The tough rubber backing helps the organiser conform to the seat. It is built tough from heavy-duty ripstop PVC. Attachment is via quick-release cam locks, while the internal frame helps the seat organiser retain its shape.
RRP: $75 Website: www.mrswagman.com.au
Black Wolf Bushranger Lite King Swag, mat and pillow
Swags are not the smallest or lightest things to carry; most decent swags (with mattress and poles) can sit around the 10-12kg mark – and roll up quite large. Black Wolf has solved that storage problem with the Lite King swag and Super Deluxe self-inflating mat.
The Lite King is made from polycotton/canvas but comes sans mattress, allowing it to be rolled up to 600mm x 200mm x 200mm and making it far easier to pack. Black Wolf realises you need a mattress and the Super Deluxe, when inflated, offers 8.8cm of comfort.
The swag offers ventilation and measures 3050mm x 1500mm/1100mm x 950mm, so there’s loads of interior space. Black Wolf even offers a self-inflating pillow.
RRP: $300 (Lite King swag); $330 (Super Deluxe mat); $70 (Deluxe Self-inflating pillow) Website: www.blackwolf.com.au
LAND Rover will cease the UK production of its Discovery and shift its tools to a new assembly plant in Slovakia.
According to Bloomberg, however, the iconic British brand is still committed to its Solihull, England, plant and will instead utilise its facility to “accommodate a new generation of electric cars”.
Solihull will also remain the manufacturing plant for both the Ranger Rover and Range Rover Sport; while the Disco Sport will continue to be produced at Land Rover’s Halewood facility.
Want more? 4×4 of The Year 2018 Winner: Land Rover Discovery Sd4
“This significant investment and technology upgrade in Solihull in order to accommodate our next-generation of flagship Land Rover models, and the refit of our Halewood plant for the next Evoque, is proof that we remain committed both to the UK and to transformation and growth,” Jaguar Land Rover said by email to Bloomberg.
Short-term job losses are expected to hit British workers, but the decision to focus on an electric future should pave the way for jobs down the track.
The 2018 4X4OTY-winning Discovery won plaudits for its go-anywhere off-road ability combined with its on-road prowess.
The UK production of the Discovery is expected to be all wrapped up by early 2019.
THE blossoming dual-cab 4×4 Australian market is set to land a big American fish later this month, with the RAM 1500 marching out of showrooms this July in right-hand drive.
The Hemi V8-powered 1500 will butt heads with Ford’s Ranger Raptor in an ever-expanding premium ute segment, and it’s expected to be popular with enthusiasts who want/need V8 grunt without turning to the aftermarket industry.
RAM Australia expects to sell 4500 units by 2020, which will give it a 10 per cent share of the $57,000+ ute segment.
There’s clearly a market for the American “pick-up”, too, with a growing bigger-is-better attitude from local punters.
You just have to look at the VFACTS report every month to notice popularity of the dual-cab is booming, while passenger-car interest slides in comparison.
In 2018 to date, the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment holds a 19.9 per cent share of the overall new-car sales market – a small increase of 0.4 per cent YTD, but a hike nonetheless. The passenger car, on the other hand, holds 34.3 per cent of the market YTD, but it’s down 4.3 per cent compared to 2017.
It’s the pick-up/cab-chassis 4×4 segment that holds the lion’s share of LCV sales – 67,960 YTD, compared to 62,964 in 2017.
Notwithstanding the fact that car parks and local roads aren’t ready to cope with bigger Yank tanks – think 2500/3500 and Silverado – it might be time to start preparing for an increasing number of burly utes.
The Laramie 2500 and 3500 – and the looming 1500 – are converted from LHD to RHD by American Vehicle Sales, the official Aussie importer of RAMs. It’s important to note that the US-built 1500 will officially leave the showroom floor classed as a remanufactured vehicle, not a conversion.
The 2500 and 3500 launched here in 2015 and both have enjoyed sales growth since – in fact, sales increased by 36 per cent in 2017 compared to 2016, according to VFACTS.
There’s also the aftermarket industry, with companies like American Vehicle Sales who convert and sell a range of ‘big’ pick-ups for the Aussie market.
AVS’s model line-up consists of: Chevrolet Silverado HD, Dodge RAM, GMC Sierra, Ford Raptor, Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan.
With the blossoming LCV market and ‘bigger is better’ attitude, it’s likely we’ll see more American pick-ups on local roads… perhaps carparks and roads need to start getting bigger, too.
If you are planning on venturing into the great outdoors, it never hurts to go prepared especially when it comes to keeping your rig away from potential hazards.
Ironman 4X4 Isuzu MU-X bullbar
The curvy front end of the 2017+ Isuzu MU-X may seem like a tough task in regards to fitment of a bullbar, but Ironman 4×4 has ignored that and, using 3D scanning and CAD, designed and produced a new bar range for this popular mid-size wagon.
There are two Ironman 4×4 bars for MU-X: a Commercial Deluxe and a No Loop. Both bars are available in black and are ADR and airbag compliant. The bars feature in-built LED parker lights, as well as fog lights and indicators, along with what amounts to an improved approach angle.
Triple folded edges are a design highlight, and there is provision for mounting of a winch and spotties. The bars include high-lift jack points and an aerial mount as standard, and there is the option of a single or triple chrome loop kit that comes with replacement rubber over-riders. This Isuzu MU-X bar range is available from all Ironman 4×4 distributors.
Website: www.ironman4x4.com
Lightforce Striker LED
Lightforce has done it again, with the release of its lightweight and tough Striker LED lights. As with any Lightforce product, build quality and tech is top-quality. The lights are very easy to install, thanks to the included plug-and-play harness.
Thanks to its compact and slim form, the Striker LED is a great light for 4×4 owners whose vehicles have less front ‘real estate’ in which to fit the lights. Features include an amazing 1Lux output to 754 metres, and a 5000K colour temperature designed to reduce glare and eye fatigue.
The modular filter system allows for a combo light setup or flood beams. Aussie-made and well proven, the Striker LED is a great option for those looking for additional lighting for their touring rigs.
RRP: $599 Website: www.lightforce.com
HPD Triton intercooler
HPD has a new intercooler kit for the 2.4TD MQ Triton (2015-18). The kit incorporates a 600mm x 300mm x 76mm bar and plate core with a mandrel-bent inlet and outlet that is claimed to up the flow levels compared to the stock unit.
To improve airflow volume even more, the unit features short, direct piping, with 57mm on the hot side and 63mm on the cold side. Coinciding with an engine tune to suit the increased airflow, there is potential for a 25-30kW gain in power over the stock outputs.
The kits are Aussie-made and highlights include CNC-machined heavy-duty TIG-welded brackets, while the stock rubber piping is replaced with silicon and hard-alloy piping and rubber mounts that isolate the core from vibration.
RRP: $1595 Website: www.hpdiesel.com.au