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The Nissan GU Patrol is one of the most popular Nissan vehicles in Australia, and it’s not just for show. The Patrol is a rugged SUV that can handle any terrain without issue. It’s also got the power to pull trailers up to 1360 kilogrammes, making it ideal for those who need an extra hand with work or play. But as great as the GU Patrol is right off the factory, it might require a little bit of extra modification if you want to take it out in the rough Australian outback.
Popular GU Patrol Modifications
Suspension Upgrades
For starters, most off-roaders opt to get aftermarket GU Patrol suspension parts to improve ground clearance and handling. One common modification is the installation of a suspension lift kit, which adds higher-grade shocks that provide more ride height without sacrificing comfort. It’s also possible to get bigger wheels for better traction on rough terrain, especially if you’ll be driving through muddy areas or over rocky trails.
When shopping for aftermarket GU Patrol suspension parts, it’s important to take a few important factors into consideration, such as:
- Budget – The cost of the suspension parts is obviously a major factor, but it’s not the only thing that counts. You should also consider how much it’ll cost to install them as well as any additional tools or skills required for installation.
- Durability – Aftermarket parts need to be durable enough to withstand rough terrain without wearing out too quickly. This means you should opt for products made from strong materials such as steel and aluminium, which are both known for their durability in vehicle construction.
- Comfort – Your suspension may not be the only thing that improves with your modifications; comfort also gets a significant boost too. Aftermarket shocks are made to improve ride comfort, handling and stability while protecting the car’s body from bumps, cracks and dents.
Roof Rack
Another popular GU Patrol modification is installing an aftermarket roof rack so you can strap accessories such as spare fuel jerry cans, camping gear, fishing tackle and more. Alternatively, you can opt for a load-carrying rack that’s designed to carry up to 1200 kilogrammes of cargo.
When choosing a roof rack, it’s important that you think about the type of accessories you want to carry. For example, if you’re planning on carrying fuel jerry cans then it’s important that the rack has a metal coating or powder-coated finish to prevent rusting over time. You should also opt for products with strong locks and clasps so they don’t come off while driving.
Bull Bar and Winch
Furthermore, consider installing a bull bar and winch on your Patrol. These are great for clearing obstacles off the road or helping with roadside emergencies such as fixing car breaks or pulling vehicles out of ditches. Bull bars provide the much-needed front-end protection against collisions and dents, while winches can help you drag loads up steep inclines or pull vehicles out of the mud.
Off-Road Tyres
Finally, don’t forget to get yourself a set of tyres that are suitable for rough terrain. This includes an all-terrain tyre that’s made from tough rubber compounds that last longer than regular car tyres. It’s also possible to fit an off-road tyre with knobbly treads which provide better grip over muddy surfaces and rocks. When outfitting your Patrol with off-road tyres, it’s important you pay attention to a few important factors, including:
- Load Capacity – This refers to the amount of weight that your car can handle. You should get a tyre with a load capacity that’s higher than what you need to prevent overloading or bending under stress.
- Speed Rating – The speed rating indicates how fast your Patrol will be able to reach various road surfaces, such as gravel and dirt roads. It’s important you get tyres rated for high speeds in order to improve handling while driving off-road.
- Driveability – Driveability refers to the tyre’s ability to drive smoothly over rough terrain. It’s important that you get tyres with a comfortable ride so road trips aren’t too uncomfortable, even if they’ll be long and gruelling.
The Final Word
The Nissan Patrol is one of the few remaining four-wheel drive vehicles in Australia, which makes it ideal for tackling tough terrains. But as great as the GU Patrol is right off the factory, it might require a little bit of extra modification if you want to take it out in the rough Australian outback. Aftermarket suspension parts, roof racks and bull bars are just some of the many modifications you can make on your Patrol. There’s a wide selection of parts online, and you can find just what you need if you understand your needs and know where to look.
