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If you’re looking for a suspension kit that will transform the ride of your 4x4, look no further than the Vertex Suspension kit from Rough Country. This is a serious mod and for most offroading enthusiasts, likely a very big decision.  So rather than just giving you a short little product description and some key benefits, we want to really dive into what makes this kit great, and give you peace of mind to pull the trigger on one of the best mods you’ll ever buy. What Is Rough Country Vertex Suspension? Rough Country Vertex Suspension is a high-performance suspension system specifically designed for off-roading enthusiasts who demand the best from their 4x4. This advanced suspension kit is engineered to provide unparalleled handling, ride quality, and off-road capabilities, making it a must-have upgrade for those who want to push their vehicle to the limit. What sets Rough Country’s Vertex Suspension apart from other suspension upgrades is its cutting-edge technology and innovative features. The heart of the system lies in its adjustable, high-performance monotube shocks, which allow for fine-tuning of the damping characteristics to suit your specific off-road preferences. With up to eight stages of adjustment, you can easily dial in the perfect balance between comfort and performance. Another unique aspect of the Vertex Suspension is the use of high-strength, durable materials throughout the entire system. From the heavy-duty shock bodies to the robust coil springs, every component is built to withstand the harshest off-road conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability. In short, Rough Country Vertex Suspension is a game-changing suspension upgrade. What Are The Main Benefits Of Upgrading To Vertex Suspension For Offroad Enthusiasts? The effect of a Vertex suspension upgrade is large and the list of benefits is long. But here are a few of the main ones to consider. Improved Handling and Ride Quality One of the most noticeable benefits of Vertex Suspension is the significant improvement in handling and ride quality. The adjustable monotube shocks work in tandem with the robust coil springs to deliver a smooth and comfortable ride, both on and off the road. This means you can tackle challenging terrains with ease while still enjoying a comfortable drive on paved surfaces. Enhanced Off-Road Capabilities Vertex Suspension is specifically designed to boost your vehicle's off-road performance. With increased ground clearance, improved articulation, and advanced shock absorption, this suspension system allows you to conquer even the most demanding off-road conditions. Whether you're rock crawling, traversing muddy trails, or navigating steep inclines, Vertex Suspension has your back. Increased Durability and Lifespan of Suspension Components By upgrading to Vertex Suspension, you're also investing in the longevity of your 4x4. The high-strength materials and heavy-duty construction of the system ensure that it can withstand the toughest off-road environments. This not only minimises the risk of component failure but also extends the lifespan of your vehicle's suspension system, saving you time and money in the long run. Can Rough Country Vertex Suspension Be Customised For Specified Offroad Vehicles? Absolutely! To an outsider looking in, offroading is just people with hopped-up cars taking them to places most people normally wouldn’t. But the thing is, it’s really a unique hobby — and what works for one 4x4 junkie won’t for another. That's why Rough Country designed a range of Vertex Suspension kits tailored to suit various makes and models, ensuring that you can find the perfect kit for your specific 4x4. Rough Country's Range of Vertex Suspension Kits Rough Country offers Vertex Suspension kits for a wide array of offroad vehicles, including popular brands like Jeep, Ford, Chevrolet, and Toyota, among others. Each kit is meticulously engineered to provide a perfect fit and optimal performance for your specific vehicle, ensuring seamless integration with your existing components. Customisation Options for Any Preference. One of the standout features of Vertex Suspension is its adaptability. With up to eight stages of damping adjustment, you can fine-tune the suspension system to match your personal off-roading preferences. This level of customisation allows you to achieve the perfect balance between comfort, handling, and off-road capabilities, making Vertex Suspension a truly versatile upgrade. Are There Any Maintenance Or Upkeep Requirements For Vertex Suspension? Durability and longevity are two things that matter to 4x4 enthusiasts and for good reason. The Vertex Suspension from Rough Country is a perfect example of how this can be achieved in a modification. However, as with any high-performance suspension system, regular maintenance makes a world of difference in ensuring the continued performance and prolonged lifespan of all suspension components. Basic upkeep includes periodic inspections of the shocks, springs, and mounting hardware for signs of wear or damage. Additionally, it's important to keep the shock absorbers clean and debris-free, especially after off-roading adventures. Regular cleaning will help prevent corrosion and maintain the smooth operation of the adjustable damping system. By adhering to these simple maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your Vertex Suspension continues to deliver top-notch performance for years to come. So what do you think? Ready to take the plunge on one of the best suspension upgrades that money can buy? If you’re not 100% convinced yet, you should get in touch with our team and we’ll be happy to answer any further questions that you may have. Get into Offroad Industries today and enjoy amazing four-wheel driving tomorrow.

If you already know that quality is the most important thing to look for in an upgrade, you need to know about Rough Country kits. These aren't just run-of-the-mill 4wd modifications, these are high-performance parts at the very peak of industry standards. And you can find a huge selection from the Rough Country range right here at Offroad Industries.  Offroad Industries have been committed to quality since the very beginning, and it's this commitment to quality that makes Rough Country a perfect fit for our range. In this article, we'll discuss the top benefits of these kits and what makes them such a great buy for your 4x4. Enhanced Performance When it comes to off-roading, performance is key. You want your 4x4 to be able to tackle the toughest terrains without breaking a sweat, and that's where Rough Country kits truly shine. Designed with the off-roading enthusiast in mind, these kits provide two major enhancements to your vehicle's performance: improved ground clearance and better traction and control. Improved Ground Clearance Ground clearance is a critical aspect of any off-road vehicle, as it allows you to navigate over rocks, logs, and other obstacles with ease. The higher your ground clearance, the less likely your vehicle is to suffer damage from these obstacles.  Rough Country offers a variety of lift kits designed to increase your vehicle's ground clearance, giving you the freedom to explore more challenging terrains with confidence. With options like suspension lift kits, you can choose the right level of clearance for your vehicle.  Moreover, these lift kits have been meticulously engineered to maintain proper suspension geometry and steering alignment, ensuring a smooth and stable ride. Better Traction and Control Maintaining control of your 4x4 on uneven surfaces is essential for both safety and performance. The suspension system plays a crucial role in keeping your vehicle's wheels in contact with the ground, providing the necessary traction to handle unpredictable off-road conditions. Rough Country kits feature advanced suspension components designed to optimise your vehicle's traction and control. Whether you're tackling steep inclines, sharp descents, or uneven terrain, these kits ensure that your 4x4 remains stable and responsive.  Increased Durability and Reliability Off-roading can be tough on your vehicle, which is why durability and reliability are crucial when selecting aftermarket parts. Rough Country kits are designed with these factors in mind, ensuring that your 4x4 can withstand the harshest conditions without compromising performance. High-Quality Materials and Construction Rough Country kits are crafted from top-grade materials that have been specifically chosen for their strength and longevity. Components such as heavy-duty steel, high-tensile bolts, and robust bushings are used throughout the kits, providing a solid and durable foundation for your off-road adventures. Rigorous Testing and Quality Assurance Before any Rough Country product makes it to market, it undergoes extensive testing to guarantee its performance and reliability. This includes real-world off-roading scenarios, simulated stress tests, and thorough inspections to ensure every component is up to the brand's exacting standards. Customisation and Compatibility Every off-roading enthusiast has unique preferences for their ride, which is why customisation and compatibility are key when selecting the right kit for your 4x4. Rough Country understands this and offers a wide range of products tailored to various off-road vehicles. Wide Range of Products for Various Offroad Vehicles Rough Country's extensive product lineup ensures that you'll find the perfect kit for your specific make and model. From Jeeps and Toyotas to Fords and Chevrolets, Rough Country offers kits and components tailored to suit any off-road enthusiast. Easy Integration With Existing Systems One of the standout features of Rough Country kits is their ease of integration with your vehicle's existing systems. Most of these kits are designed to be bolt-on installations, meaning you won't need to perform major modifications to your 4x4. This not only simplifies the installation process but also allows you to revert to stock components if needed. Affordability and Value It’s always good to talk about affordability and value when it comes to these kinds of modifications. Investing in your off-road vehicle shouldn't break the bank, which is why Rough Country kits offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. By providing top-notch performance and durability at an accessible price point, these kits deliver exceptional value for money.  Moreover, the long-term savings that come from investing in Rough Country kits can be significant, as they minimise the need for costly repairs and maintenance due to their robust construction. In the end, upgrading to a Rough Country kit is not only an investment in your vehicle's performance, but also a smart financial decision. Roll into Offroad Industries today and get your hands on the latest and greatest in 4wd technology with Rough Country kits. Get in touch with our team for more information on these kits or check out the rest of our range online.

If you asked the average Australian what this country's national pastime is, you'd receive various answers that might include sports like cricket, AFL and rugby. You might also get answers about social events like BBQs and festivals. But there's another often overlooked pastime that Australians simply can't get enough of – touring. If you've seen the vehicles most people drive overseas, you only have to spend 10 minutes on Australian roads to realise just how different the standard vehicle choice is here. Australians live for the bush. And our roads, inundated with four-wheel drives, are the perfect example of this. The idea of packing up your car, venturing out into the wilderness and tackling whatever this vast continent has to throw at you is as intoxicating as it is exciting. Overlanding is the perfect way to experience the great outdoors and appreciate its beauty from behind the wheel. This post is dedicated to the brilliant pastime of overlapping. What it is, where to do it, how to prepare for it and more. What Is Touring In Australia? Touring in Australia is a form of travel that involves exploring the country's vast and remote wilderness areas by vehicle, typically a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle or a camper van. It is a popular way for adventure seekers to experience the rugged terrain, unique wildlife, and stunning natural beauty of Australia. Touring in Australia can take many forms, from short trips to remote destinations to long-term journeys that span thousands of kilometres. It often involves camping in remote locations, cooking over an open fire, and taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. The Australian landscape is diverse and challenging, with rugged terrain, vast deserts, and dense forests. As such, touring requires careful planning and preparation, including equipping the vehicle with suitable equipment, provisions, and emergency supplies. Overall, touring in Australia offers an exciting and unique way to explore the country's vast and rugged wilderness areas, but it requires careful planning, preparation, and a willingness to tackle the challenges that come with off-road travel. It's a holiday for those that love a challenge and puts the emphasis on the journey itself – rather than the destination at the end. What Are The Best Overlanding Routes In Australia? Some popular touring destinations in Australia include the Gibb River Road in Western Australia, the Birdsville Track in South Australia, and the Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland. These destinations offer unique experiences and stunning scenery, but they can also be challenging and require a high level of driving skill and self-sufficiency. But an overlapping holiday doesn't have to be a huge multi-week adventure. The beauty of this activity is that it can be tailored to suit any budget and timeframe. Even a weekend trip can offer an immersive experience of the Australian bush. What Upgrades Can I Make To My Car For Touring? It's no secret that touring does have some unique challenges that come with the sport. As such, having a vehicle that can deal with these challenges is paramount, not only for the sake of safety but simply to have an enjoyable trip. Here are some worthwhile mods to consider: Fuel Tanks It should go without saying that, in a country that's mostly covered in desert, fuel stations aren't always easy to come by in the wilderness. That's why many tourers choose to install an upgraded fuel tank. Suspension Kits Suspension kits are always a great idea for touring. Not only do they help to reduce the wear and tear on your vehicle, but they also ensure a smoother ride when tackling rough terrain. Electric Roller Shutters Though not a performance upgrade, electric roller shutters provide you with an added level of security while you're in the bush. If many of your valuables are going to be in the back of the car, it's worth investing in quality protection. What Season Should I Go Overlanding In Australia? We're spoilt in Australia when it comes to weather. Even in the winter months, our climate is fairly friendly for touring. But really it depends on your personal preference. Going in the colder months will likely lead to encountering more rain on your trip, whereas going in the Australian summer means dealing with stifling heat. Neither is a particularly bad time to go, but you'll need to prep and pack accordingly. You'll find that in the Australian spring, locusts and other insects are at their most active. If you're planning to travel in those months, a bonnet protector and weather shields are two excellent additions to your 4x4. Does Touring Involve Camping? Absolutely touring involves camping! In fact, camping is a huge part of the whole touring experience in Australia. When you're out exploring the rugged and remote terrain, you'll want to set up camp and settle in for the night, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of nature. Whether you're sleeping in a tent, a swag, or a rooftop tent on your 4WD, camping is a great way to immerse yourself in the Aussie wilderness and really connect with the land. Plus, it gives you the chance to cook up some amazing outdoor meals over a campfire and maybe even spot some of Australia's unique wildlife while you're at it. What Types Of Cars Are Suitable For Touring? There are plenty of cars out there that can take on touring, but here are a few must-haves. You'll want a vehicle with some key characteristics to handle the challenging terrain and long journeys.  Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a must-have, as it provides better traction and handling on rough roads and off-road conditions. Good ground clearance is also important – so you don't scrape the undercarriage on rocks or debris. A sturdy suspension system is crucial to handle the rough terrain, while a durable chassis can handle the bumps and jolts that come with touring. A reliable engine is a must, as you'll be covering long distances in remote areas. And last but not least, you'll want plenty of cargo space for your gear, supplies, and camping equipment. Overall, touring is one of the best possible ways to explore all that our beautiful country has to offer. You'll see things most people never get the chance to – and have an opportunity to unplug and unwind in some of nature's most beautiful surroundings. For all your touring needs, check out our range at Offroad Industries. We'll see you out there!

GVM is becoming a hot topic in some 4x4 circles, and for good reason. GVM, or Gross Vehicle Mass, refers to the maximum allowed weight of a 4x4 vehicle when it is fully loaded, including the vehicle's own weight, passengers, fuel, and any additional cargo or gear. It’s an important factor to consider when hitting the road, as it affects the vehicle's performance, stability, and safety. Why GVM Matters Every vehicle model has its own GVM limit that is set by the manufacturer. Now, for most types of vehicles, their owners never need to worry about exceeding their GVM as space and engine power constraints are usually limiting factors long before they tip over their car's legal limit. This isn’t the for 4x4 drivers. Aside from the detrimental effect on performance caused by exceeding your vehicle’s GVM, there are very real and very expensive legal ramifications for doing so. In Victoria, even a minor breach of load limits can net you a $3000 fine, with more serious offences rising to $5000 and then $10,000. The Benefits of a GVM Upgrade You can make your own mind up as to what is the most important benefit of a GVM upgrade, but to list a few in no particular order: Increased load-carrying capacity Improved handling and stability Enhanced safety and braking performance Ability to accommodate aftermarket accessories and modifications Better towing capabilities Legal compliance with weight regulations Reduced risk of vehicle damage or breakdowns Increased off-road performance Greater peace of mind for drivers Improved ride quality when fully loaded As you can see, there are more than a few reasons to consider this mod for your 4x4. Components of a GVM Upgrade A GVM upgrade typically involves several modifications to enhance a 4x4 vehicle's load-carrying capacity. Key components include an upgraded suspension system, featuring heavy-duty springs / leaf packsand shock absorbers for better support and handling.  Upgraded brakes maybe required to ensure safe and efficient stopping performance. Revised axle ratings may be necessary to accommodate the additional load on each axle.  Finally, obtaining certification and inspection after the GVM upgrade is crucial to ensure that the vehicle meets safety and regulatory requirements and remains legally compliant. Frequently Asked Questions Does GVM Include A Full Tank Of Fuel? The short answer is yes. GVM includes everything that makes up the total combined weight of the vehicle. This includes fuel, as well as passengers and cargo. Is A Special Licence Required To Drive A Car With A GVM Upgrade? The answer to this question may depend on the state you live in, so always make sure to check with your local road authority before going for a GVM upgrade. But to use Victoria as an example, you only need a heavy vehicle license if your vehicle has a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of more than 4.5 tonnes but not more than 8 tonnes. In this instance, you would need the first type of heavy vehicle license, known as a Light Rigid (LR) licence. Who Does GVM Upgrades In Australia? There are a number of suppliers around Australia for GVM lift kits, but if you want a job done right, it’s always best to go with Offroad Industries.

Offroad Industries is a proud Australian stockist of Factor 55. In the four-wheel drive industry, there are so many different brands all vying for the top spot within their respective niche. Whether it's suspension parts, lighting or winch accessories – there's competition in all of them. So when you see a brand like Factor 55, known widely as a market leader in winch accessories, you know it wasn't easy to get there. The importance of the product that Factor 55 provides cannot be understated. The fact of the matter is that you never need a dependable winch setup until you really need a dependable winch setup. Knowing that you have the equipment to get out of trouble makes it much easier to enjoy getting into trouble. This is where the value of Factor 55 Winch hooks really shines through – because they won't fail at the same point when all others will. This post is all about Factor 55 and some of their best-sellers on the Offroad Industries website. Factor 55 Ultrahook Marketed as the world's safest winch hook, the Factor 55 Ultrahook is the cream of the crop – and it's easy to see why.  The Factor 55 Ultrahook uses a Closed System Shackle Mount (their own patent) that is designed to fix the main issue with normal winch hooks. The issue we're talking about is when the rope is under extreme loads and angles - causing it to slip on the winch hook – causing the rope to press on the clasp of the hook and leading to failure.  Plenty of efforts have been made to strengthen the clasp and make it more robust, but it's just not really possible to make it as strong as the rest of the hook. So Factor 55 got their thinking hats on and changed the design altogether. What you're left with is a winch hook made from precision CNC machined 7000 series military-grade aluminium, with a 6AI-4V grade V titanium double shear pin. So it’s fair to say, this is some pretty good kit. With a max-rated load of just over 7 tonnes, you'll be able to recover any 4x4 (or rather large adult elephant) with ease, no matter what angle you're pulling from.  Factor 55 Hitchlink Next on this list is Factor 55's king of simplicity and reliability – the Factor 55 hitchlink. The Hitchlink 2.0 Reciever Shackle Mount is a no-nonsense kind of recovery option.  It's dead easy to use, and with an ultimate failure rating of 23 tonnes, you can be sure that it will do the job when you need it to. This effectively means that something else is almost guaranteed to break before your hitchlink does. The great thing about this is that because the hitchlink is so simple in design, there's hardly anything on it that can break or go wrong. No frills here, just pure recovery potential.  As with all Factor 55 items, this is a quality product, first designed and manufactured in the United States and then shipped to us folks out here in Australia. This particular example is made from precision-machined 6000 series aluminium and is an affordable and effective tool, making it a great buy for 4x4 enthusiasts everywhere. Factor 55 Hawse Winch Fairlead Billet As a producer of such a wide range of winching accessories, it only makes sense that Factor 55 has gone and created a top-notch fairlead to add to your recovery arsenal.  One of the most tricky recoveries to pull off is whenever you need to pull at acute angles relative to the winching vehicle. These situations can come up for a variety of reasons, but they're rarely good. In those situations, the loads being placed on the rope, the winch and the fairlead are very high and can often lead to failures. The hawse winch fairlead from Factor 55 is one of the best ways to fight against those failures.  With the 1.0 and 1.5 fairleads coming in at 1 and 1.5 inches thick, respectively, this makes the Factor 55 Hawse Fairleads double the industry-wide standard of .75 inches thick. The thickness of the bar means that it has a ‘larger outer fillet radius’. In layman's terms, this means the rope won’t be under as much strain when being pulled at tight angles as it would be with a thinner fairlead. Factor 55 Borah Vehicle Recovery Kit | Ultimate Recovery Kit The last item on this list gets a mention because it's a no-brainer addition to any serious 4x4 driver's recovery kit. In fact, it's really the only recovery kit you'll probably ever need. If you've got old or average-quality gear, or if you're new to 4x4 recovery and simply want to buy all the best equipment in one go, this is the recovery kit for you. Check out the list of inclusions for an idea of how comprehensive this recovery kit is. This is one of the best sellers on the Offroad Industries website for a good reason.  So if you want to rely on the highest quality design, materials and craftsmanship to get you out of a sticky situation, Factor 55 is the brand to go with. And Offroad Industries is the place to get it. Check out the full Factor 55 range today.

If you know what Offroad Industries are all about, you'll know one thing for sure – we absolutely love a good Chevy. Chevrolet is one of the world's most iconic car brands, and the Chevy Silverado is one of their most treasured models.  The Silverado name first hit the road in 1975, but it was only in name at the time, as it was really just the top trim model of the Chevy C/K series. 24 years later, the 4x4 world finally got its darling with the standalone 1999 Chevy Silverado. We're up to series 4 of this iconic truck at the time of writing, and despite a shrinking market for four-wheeled behemoths, the Chevrolet brand is holding on tight to their whopping V8 engined turbo diesel.   This blog post will be all about what you can do to further enhance the driving experience of your Chevrolet Silverado. And whether you're a current owner or a prospective buyer still waiting for the stars to align, this article will show you exactly how to perfect your Silverado. At Offroad Industries, not only do we supply components for new Chevy Silverados, but we also stock parts for older models as well. Get in touch with us and we’ll be able to find a suitable package to suit your requirements. The Best Mods For Your Chevrolet Silverado Tuning/Programming Module Let's kick this off with possibly the best bang-for-buck modification on this list – the programming module. If you're looking to really get your truck performing your way, this is the perfect place to start. A programming module gives you a tonne of control over how your car behaves and the way it performs. From calibrating suspension changes to tyre diameter/pressure changes, throttle sensitivity adjustments and a whole host of others, this mod acts as a bedrock for all of the other additions you'll want to make down the track.  The PULSAR V3 W/ EDGE INSIGHT CTS3 from ORI is one of the best examples of this great mod, as it comes with both a tuning/programming module and digital gauges that are great for seeing everything that's going on with your Silverado. If performance is your passion, this is the mod for you. Lift Kits You knew this had to be next, didn't you? As long as you're not bothered by altitude sickness, a lift kit is the mod for the Chevy Silverado. And luckily, Offroad Industries stock lift kits so tall, you'll want a supplementary oxygen mask for your daily commute. But jokes aside, the (not so) humble lift kit is one hell of a head-turner and undeniably a statement mod. Functionally speaking, a lift kit will allow you to tackle even rougher terrain – without fear of hitting protruding rocks. They also offer an obvious boost in the field of vision afforded to the driver. At ORI, we have Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ, 2500HD and Trailboss lift kits available with 2 inch, 3 inch, 5 inch and even monumental 7 inch lifts. So if you're looking to take your Silverado to the next level (literally), this is definitely a mod worth having. Electronic Roller Shutters One of the great things about the Chevy Silverado is that it's such a capable machine and able to tackle a wide variety of jobs. And for many of us, the Silverado is the vehicle we take with us to work. This is why we’re including the Electronic Roller Shutter on our list of Chevrolet Silverado accessories. Frankly, we're yet to see a better way of securing the belongings in your tray than with a roller shutter.  These black, powder-coated aluminium designs are reliably theft-proof and are able to provide a superb level of security while still retaining the full functionality of your truck. For example, Offroad Industries Electronic Roller Shutters can still have sports bars or rhino racks attached to them. And they're installed using a straightforward clamping system that can even be installed at home. Full Suspension Upgrade Last up on this list of must-have mods is a suspension upgrade for your Chevrolet Silverado 4x4. Truthfully, most Silverados don’t see anywhere near as much off-road usage as their sales promotional material might suggest – but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a lot of value out of an upgraded suspension. We all know the factory rancho suspension is nothing to write home about, it's extremely bouncy and when towing it makes for a disappointing ride in your new Chevy. The best way to fix this is to upgrade the suspension to suit your needs. Offroad Industries has several suspension adjuster options available for both the 1500 and 2500 series. All of these also come with lift kits plus heavy-duty coil springs with shock absorbers housed in the same unit. These mods help to improve hauling capacity, allowing you to take heavier loads and provide a smoother ride with improved handling characteristics. We'd recommend slapping on a set of Rough Country Vertex Suspension adjusters for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Trailboss (2019-2022). This is a big mod that will drastically improve the performance and value of your vehicle. Certainly a worthwhile investment. There you have it folks! The Chevy Silverado aftermarket parts list to end them all is complete. The best news? You can find all of these mods, from the most reputable brands, at fantastic prices – all at Offroad Industries.

What do you think of when you hear 'Chevrolet'? It's a big name, famous for making big cars with big clearance riding atop big wheels. It's a loved and storied brand that is as equally well known in the 4x4 truck game as it is in the worlds of muscle cars, NASCAR, and now even in the niche but highly glamorised segment of mid-engined sports cars (see the Corvette C8). Chevy has survived several global financial crises, two world wars and even, dare I say it, the electric car revolution – all while amassing over 100 years of automotive design and manufacturing experience. So it's fair to say they know how to build a car.  But for those of us who know that anything can be improved upon – and who have the will to do it – there is a whole raft of upgrades available for these great vehicles. Whether you're looking to make it more powerful, more rugged, more useable or more 'go-anywhere-able' (yes, we made that up) then you're in exactly the right place. Read on to know our top 5 upgrades you can make to your Chevy. Get an electric roller shutter While not necessarily a Chevy issue alone, we think it's fair to say that if there was anything we could point to on a Chevrolet truck (and on most trucks in showroom condition) it would be the OEM tub cover that they supply. These are usually nothing more than some stretched canvas atop four or five crossbeams and voila, you have a cover. But if you're looking to put anything of value in your tub, then getting a proper electric roller shutter with all of the associated bells and whistles is the way to go. These will keep anything in your trunk dry, safe from prying eyes and most importantly, safe from prying hands. They're relatively low effort to set up and can be done either by yourself or with a professional. Upgrade your suspension Next on the shopping list is the suspension. Let's take the Chevrolet Silverado as an example for this one. These trucks are built in America and they do American roads very well. Unsealed roads, gravel, some slightly rougher hilly stuff – all great. But this is Australia, and this country is home to roads that would make most American cars weep silent tears. This is where Offroad Industries comes in. Chevy's are long, wide and tall but much of that height comes from the cabin itself. This means that compared to other 4x4's their ground clearance and that length can really do with a boost if you want to take yours to some serious terrain. A lift kit is an excellent way to go about this, Offroad Industries stock Rough Country suspension, King Shocks, Fox Shocks and are able to suggest a product to suit your needs. Stocking suspension from 2" to 6" of lift kits. One of the key items to upgrade on your chevy is a set of aftermarket control arms will truly Australia-proof your Chevy. There are plenty of options available on this front, as Offroad Industries stocks suspension kits from Rough Country UCA, Baja Kits and Element Hard Parts. Add Stealth LED light options A general upgrade that's great for any 4x4 vehicle (not just Chevrolets) is to add a range of aftermarket lighting options to your ride. This has a number of benefits – the first being that you can go harder for longer as you'll have better visibility in dark or low-light conditions. Secondly, it looks great. Offroad Industries stocks a wide range of lighting options from Stealth Lighting – a market leader in 4x4 lighting products. You can go with an LED headlight conversion kit or an LED light bar (a variety of sizes are available). These are fantastic ways to show off your truck's new look while also giving it a clear purpose beyond the OEM grocery-getter style. You can even get creative with the colours and mounts to really make your Chevrolet stand out from the rest. Protect your wheels with Bushwacker flares Off-roading is a messy sport, we all know this. Mud, dirt, stones and various types of tree matter are being hurled up by the A/T tyres constantly. The trouble starts when all of those items start getting up passed the wheel arches and start scratching or denting the panels above. Fitting your vehicle with a set of extended flares gives your paint job and panels the protection that they need, with the added benefit of allowing you to drive without inhibition and worry that you're going to do damage. Also for what it's worth, flared arches are undoubtedly one of the best visual mods if you're looking to turn your 4x4 into something resembling a mountain-crushing behemoth. Tweak your onboard computer This one is for those looking to eek out that extra bit of performance from their Chevy, but also for those who want to have more control over each of the specific features of their vehicle. The PULSAR modules from Offroad Industries allow you to change things like the throttle sensitivity, rev limiter, gear ratios and re-program tyre pressure sensors. The pulsar unit also disengages the DFM which reduce's the case of lifter failures. As an additional benefit, if you’re looking to put larger-diameter tyres on your Chevy, these modules are able to reprogram the onboard computer to account for this. Overall a great way to get the most out of your truck. For all your Chevrolet needs, you don't need to look any further than Offroad Industries.

As summer approaches, the pull of a beachside getaway is an enticing and almost irresistible idea. Add in the prospect of unrelenting sand dune-centric fun and you've got the perfect recipe for a top weekend. Sand driving is a brilliant and unintimidating way to get some serious 4x4 driving in and can be an awesome way for a beginner to cut their teeth on offroading while still being a playground for the more experienced 4x4 aficionado.  Being an island, we're pretty spoilt for choice in Australia when it comes to finding sandy beaches to hoon around on. On top of that, roughly 40% of the Australian continent's interior is covered in sand dunes. No matter which direction you go, eventually you'll find sand. So learning the art of sand driving, and what to bring along for the trip is a worthwhile endeavour. Here, we'll cover all of the above so you're ready to hit the dunes with confidence. Tip 1: Tyre Pressures This is tip number one and rightfully so, as getting the correct tyre pressures nailed down for your ride is going to save a lot of headaches when out on the sand. There are plenty of takes out there on the correct pressures, but we're saying start with 16psi and go down as needed. Trial and error is the name of the game here. Now, a bit of science behind why this is crucial to your sandy success. When it comes to sand driving – specifically the intention of sand driving and not sand bogging – the main equation you need to think about is the weight of your car per square centimetre of contact with the sand. As you lower your tyre pressures, there is more tyre touching the ground. And so the all-important contact patch of tyres to sand gets larger, thus spreading the weight of the car out more. This makes it harder to sink into the sand at all times. Whether you're moving or sitting still, those tyres are constantly at work to make sure you don't get royally stuck. Which conveniently brings us to our next tip! Tip 2: Getting stuck (and then unstuck) Getting stuck while 4x4 driving is part of the game. Take your vehicle to wild places, see how far it gets, get stuck, get out, and repeat. More or less. When it comes to 4x4 sand driving tips the one you should definitely know beforehand is that you'll probably get stuck at some point on the sand. So in order to be prepared make absolutely certain that you have a winch kit. We recommend bringing along recovery boards as well! Tip 3: Bring. Enough. Fuel. Although it might seem a bit of a captain-obvious suggestion, but bringing enough fuel (more than enough ideally) is paramount. The search for sand dune driving may very well take you a fair way off the beaten track, especially if you're going inland and planning on camping along as you go. Sand driving is hard work for your car's engine, it relies heavily on horsepower in order to get you up and over dunes as well as through deep sandy ruts. The tyres spend a lot of time spinning and as such you'll be using up a decent amount more fuel than you would be compared to other forms of 4x4 off-roading. You can offset this higher fuel consumption by either; carrying around external fuel tanks like jerrycans or choosing to add a more permanent solution and upgrading your fuel tank.  Tip 4: Bring an air compressor When it comes to driving on sand, there's good news and there's bad news. The good news is that you will have to be very unlucky in order to get a puncture while driving on dunes. The relative lack of sharp rocks and shattered tree branches plus the very low tyre pressures means that your rubber will probably finish the day in the same condition it started. But I did also say there was bad news. And the bad news is that dropping your tyres too low, and then being too aggressive with your steering inputs can lead to having the bead of the tyre slip off the rim. Very not ideal. Very time-consuming to fix. All-round not recommended. But by bringing an air compressor you can ensure that you are able to reinflate the tyres if this happens and turn a major annoyance into something in the realm of minor annoyance. Driving on sand has the potential to be a fantastic experience and if you follow these 4x4 sand driving tips, you should get through it with smiles all around. 

Of all the components and features that make up an offroad 4x4 vehicle, there are few parts of the car that receive as much attention and conversation as the assortment of struts, shocks and springs that make up your 4x4 suspension. This is for a very good reason, as the suspension is the constant that underpins everything you do and in many ways is the fundamental difference (other than 4-wheel drive) between regular vehicles and those that are intended for offroad use.  But given how offroad suspension setups are made of so many components, there's plenty that can go wrong – and when they do, the performance (and safety) of your vehicle can be seriously affected in a number of ways. In this blog, we'll go over some of the most common giveaways that there may be something wrong with your 4x4 suspension, and what those issues might be. The car makes strange noises when going over bumps If the car is making strange noises going over bumps (namely one's that sound expensive) then it's best you figure the cause out as quickly as possible. It could be as simple as a small stone or piece of debris that's become lodged in one of the suspension components, but it could also be indicative of a more serious problem. If you hear metallic screeching or clunking, for example, it's likely that two metal parts of the suspension are rubbing together. In this instance, it's a good idea to get down and check the rubber bushings of your suspension for signs of wear. As with most rubber compounds, the best way to tell if they need replacing is by looking for cracks, splits or any other visible damage. If you see any of these, then it's time to replace the relevant component. These checks can often be done without the need for a jack - especially if your car has a high ground clearance - but replacing them will require the car's weight to be off the suspension. Driving feels extra bumpy As is often the case with 4x4 suspension, one symptom could be the result of several potential issues. With an extra bumpy ride while driving, the first thing I'd be looking at in this instance is the state of your shocks and struts. An extra bumpy ride can be indicative of the shocks and or struts having too little hydraulic fluid in them, causing the suspension to rest too low to the ground and leading to 'bottoming out' of the suspension. Test this by looking at each shock and strut and checking for leaking hydraulic fluid.  Car nose dives when stopping If your car seems to be nose-diving more than usual when stopping, it's likely that your shocks aren't doing their job correctly. This is because the shocks are designed to control the spring movement of the suspension, and if they're not working properly then the springs will push down too hard on the suspension. As a result, the front end of your car will dip down when coming to a stop as the weight of the engine transfers forwards. To test this, park your car on a level surface and with the engine turned off, push down firmly on each corner of the car. If you can feel any 'give' in the suspension or if the car dips down more than a couple of inches, then it's likely that your shocks or struts are worn. The car veers to one side or has uneven tyre treads Another key indicator of worn suspension is uneven tyre treads. The most common cause of this is worn shock absorbers or struts, as they provide the dampening effect that keeps the tyres in contact with the road. Another potential cause could be a problem with the wheel alignment and/or camber settings. Both of which are best adjusted by a professional. How much does it cost to replace the suspension? The cost of replacing your 4x4 suspension will vary depending on the severity of the damage, the type of vehicle you have and whether you do it yourself or take it to a professional. In any instance, it's best to make sure that your suspension is replaced with quality components that are going to stand up to the rigours of off-road driving. Offroad Industries stocks a wide range of vehicle-specific 4x4 suspension sets as well as individual components to give you the certainty that your car is riding on the best components possible.