Vehicles Articleshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehiclesQuickly browse your way through all ExplorOz Articles, related to vehicles en-auCopyright 2001 - 2024 I.T. Beyond Pty Ltd1440https://cdn.exploroz.com/exploroz/images/logo.pngExplorOz Logohttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicles4WD vs AWDhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicles/4wdvsawd.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicles/4wdvsawd.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicles/4wdvsawd.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/212598__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>What is the difference between 4WD & AWD Vehicles? Over the years, the lines have blurred for consumers in terms of what is understood by off-road capability. We now see a wide range of technologies and variants in vehicles to the point that most people don’t really know how to determine the difference between AWD and 4WD and how and when it matters. To confound the issue even further are the terms SUV and Softroader. To help you better understand this grey-line of vehicle suitability here’s a breakdown of terms and definitions followed by a list of popular vehicles available in Australia divided into their respective AWD and 4WD categories.ExplorOz TeamMon, 09 Apr 2018 01:17:00 GMTAftermarket Seatshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/seats.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/seats.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/seats.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/298__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Unfortunately, car manufacturers don't always expect us to actually take our vehicles offroad - so when it comes to fitting out your vehicle for a major trip you replace your suspension to improve the ride so ... why not replace your seats? In this article we touch on the drawbacks of factory fitted seats and mention some facts about seat replacement. ExplorOz TeamThu, 12 Jan 2023 04:13:00 GMTAll Terrain (AT) Tyreshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/at.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/at.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/at.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/40983__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>When you are looking for a compromise between off-road capability and good on-road manners, an All-Terrain (AT) tyre is the way to go. These tyres offer good versatility by offering capability on a wide variety of surface types, from dry sealed roads to dirt tracks and fair mud play. All in all, AT tyres are more robust than HT tyres and are suited to roughly 50% off-road use.ExplorOz Team - Damian Wed, 09 Sep 2020 05:12:00 GMTBike Carriershttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/bikecarriers.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/bikecarriers.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/bikecarriers.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/713__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Using a recreational vehicle such as a 4WD is all about exploring places and enjoying yourself. Taking a push bike can provide you with the added advantage of exercise and exploring that little further in the nice open air. This article talks about bike carriers and briefly outlines some options and benefits such as fitting one to the rear of your vehicle.Michelle JackaMon, 16 Feb 2015 07:11:00 GMTBull Bars, Rails & Stepshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/barrailsteps.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/barrailsteps.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/barrailsteps.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/226__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>A vehicle's bull bar, sides steps and rails are known as its "bar work". Some critics might suggest that bar work is not necessary but for people actually using their vehicles for offroad touring, the bar work provides critical strength and protection and should therefore be considered as essentials. Michelle MartinWed, 06 May 2020 11:15:00 GMTBuying a 4WDhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/choices/buyinga4wd.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/choices/buyinga4wd.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/choices/buyinga4wd.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/26__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>This article focuses on the major considerations when choosing a 4WD vehicle for the purpose of travelling and camping. We give some brief definations of the various terms used to categorise 4WDs, and discuss various features and their practicality in the outback.Sun, 09 Aug 2020 12:30:00 GMTBuying a Motorhomehttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/motorhomes/buying.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/motorhomes/buying.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/motorhomes/buying.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/23616__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Motorhomes combine living accommodations and travel in the one package and the options are endless. The amount to learn can be quite overwhelming to the newbie. There are different motorhome class types, motorhome terminologies and abbreviations, motorhome extra features, safety features, luxuries, the list goes on. The advancements in motorhome technologies and manufacturing has made these travelling vehicle homes a very enjoyable lifestyle. From young families to seniors, what a better way to take the time to travel around and discover the many pockets of this vast country. Tue, 03 Nov 2015 04:45:00 GMTCargo Drawershttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/storagedrawers.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/storagedrawers.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/storagedrawers.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/209__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>This Article looks at gearing up for a 4WD camping trip and the need to find a sturdy, compact storage solution that won't rattle, break or allow loose items to fly around the cabin. We look at cargo drawers and list the features you should look for.ExplorOz Team - Damian and MichelleMon, 20 Apr 2015 02:46:00 GMTDiesel Fuel Injection Systemshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/dfi_systems.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/dfi_systems.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/dfi_systems.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/41104__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>For drivers of petrol/gasoline-engined vehicles, fuel injection is a relatively new innovation. Only in the last decade or so has fuel injection become the norm and its predecessor, the humble carburettor, seems a turned page in automotive history. Diesel engines, on the other hand, have always used fuel injection, since the days of Rudolf Diesel himself. This technical article discusses the various diesel fuel injection systems from the days of old to the new.Ian PetersenWed, 29 Apr 2015 01:10:00 GMTDriving Lightshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/drivinglights.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/drivinglights.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/drivinglights.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/151__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>If you plan to do any night driving in the outback then a strong reliable light source is a must. Bad weather, night driving and the possibility of stray animals all demand the need for a clear view of the road and the standard vehicle high beam is not enough. In this article we provide some buying and installation tips for considering additional driving lights for your vehicle.ExplorOz TeamFri, 22 May 2020 04:54:00 GMTHF Radio Installationhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/hfradio_installation.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/hfradio_installation.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/hfradio_installation.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/594__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>In this article, we discuss the procedures for installing a HF radio and the modifications that can be considered for a successful installation. We look at the different options and locations on the vehicle to mount the antenna base and provide some cabling and console tips to give that professional look.Michelle JackaWed, 15 Jul 2015 12:21:00 GMTHighway Terrain (HT) Tyreshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/ht.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/ht.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/ht.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/40982__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Highway Terrain tyres are designed to offer the best in road travel conditions with good ride comfort, low noise and freeway speed durability and road handling. Many brand new 4WDs and especially the compact 4WDs are fitted standard with these tyres. Regular four wheel drivers often replace the original HT tyres with more specific offroad capability but in doing so you may compromise some road handling performance.ExplorOz Team - DamianMon, 05 Aug 2013 13:56:00 GMTHiring a 4WD or Campervanhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/choices/hiring.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/choices/hiring.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/choices/hiring.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/391__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>This article is intended to help the international visitor to Australia who is trying to work out the best way to choose a vehicle for a self-drive trip. There is a perception that buying a vehicle and selling it afterwards is the most ideal and cost-effective solution - this is usually wrong. Hiring a vehicle that is both your transport and accommodation in one is the realistic solution for a stress-free holiday. In this article we explain the different types of vehicles for hire in Australia including motorhomes, campervans and standard vehicles from 2wd to 4wd.Tue, 21 May 2013 03:11:00 GMTIntercoolers for Dieselshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/intercoolers.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/intercoolers.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/intercoolers.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/40905__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>“Intercooled” - it’s a pretty “cool” looking decal to have along the side of your vehicle but what does it mean? And more importantly, what does it do? In this technical article, we explain why it is important to know what function the automotive intercooler plays in our engine and then we analyse why it is so desirable to have one!Ian PetersenMon, 05 Aug 2013 13:56:00 GMTLong Range Fuel Tankshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/fueltanks.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/fueltanks.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/fueltanks.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/217__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>A large number of outback treks involve long distances between fuel outlets. Jerry cans are dangerous, difficult to store and not as convenient as a long range fuel tank. Fitting a long range fuel tank is a common modification and there are many good manufacturers. This article looks at basic considerations when thinking of getting a long range fuel tank for your vehicle.Michelle MartinMon, 03 Aug 2020 10:25:00 GMTMud Terrain (MT) Tyreshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/mt.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/mt.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/mt.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/40981__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Mud Terrain tyres are not just for hard-core 4WD enthusiats but are generally recommended for drivers who spend at least 80% of their time off-road. Earlier MT designs typically wore faster, were noiser and generally performed less well on the road, but with today's simulation technologies researchers can ensure that MT tyres maintain the necessary handling and low noise levels required for today's modern 4WD vehicles and the more discerning buyer.ExplorOz Team - DamianThu, 01 Nov 2012 07:34:00 GMTOils and Lubeshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/oilsandlubes.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/oilsandlubes.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/oilsandlubes.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/27451__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Whether you drive an old or a new vehicle, oils and lubricants for your engine, diff and gearbox are critical factors affecting performance and also your running costs. In this article we have concentrated purely on the key issues, have avoided mention of brands, but have highlighted certain facts relevant to the audience of ExplorOz - more than likely you're a 4WD owner and a traveller.Fri, 03 Jan 2014 08:27:00 GMTPortable Fridgeshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/fridges.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/fridges.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/fridges.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/185__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>The debate over which fridge is the best on the market is one of the most contested discussions in the camping recreation. In this article we look at the range of features and the major issues to consider when comparing brands and models.Mike RicterFri, 28 Aug 2020 12:45:00 GMTRecovery Gear Needshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/recoverygear.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/recoverygear.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/recoverygear.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/224__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>The majority of situations that will stop a 4WD from moving are tyre punctures or getting yourself bogged in mud or sand - and these can happen in the simplest of situations, and for no real fault of the driver.  Since you cannot plan to avoid a situation where you need recovery, but you can avoid relying on someone to rescue you - it is your responsibility as a 4WD driver to be equipped to get yourself out of the mess. Essential reading! Michelle MartinThu, 01 Feb 2018 04:26:00 GMTRoof Racks, Luggage Trays & Boxeshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/roofracks.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/roofracks.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/roofracks.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/203__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>In this article we look at the pros and cons of using the roof of your vehicle for storage when travelling; discuss what not to carry on your roof; provide some helpful packing hints and finally some useful buying tips.ExplorOz TeamThu, 21 Apr 2016 12:17:00 GMTSnorkelhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/snorkel.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/snorkel.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/snorkel.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/218__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Although significantly different, both petrol and diesel engines require a steady flow of air to operate. If the vehicle is not fitted with a snorkel, they do this by sucking air through the inner guard of the bonnet or just behind the grill. These open airways will also allow water to enter the engine if submerged - with disastrous results! In this article we look at the major reasons for installing a snorkel to a 4WD vehicle.Damian BakerSun, 10 May 2015 22:02:00 GMTSpare Parts and Toolshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/sparesandtools.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/sparesandtools.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/sparesandtools.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/2826__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Knowing what to take on a trip must firstly begin with specific requirements to keep your vehicle running and how to conduct roadside service if the vehicle breaks down. If you are driving a 4WD vehicle then this means you need additional gear such as recovery equipment, and since mechanical breakdown in a remote area could mean certain death for the vehicle occupants, you must be able to conduct basic bush maintence and have the tools and spare parts to get the vehicle moving again.Mon, 10 Feb 2014 04:53:00 GMTSuspensionhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/suspension.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/suspension.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/suspension.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/220__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>There is an unfortunate but realistic fact about purchasing a new 4WD - it won't come fitted with a suspension system designed to carry the kind of load you'll pack for a serious outback trip. In this article we explain why it is important to consider fitting a new suspension system and what is involved. Suspension will certainly improve handling and hence saftey of driving with heavy loads and will dramatically improve the comfort of the ride. You can forget about corrugations with a good suspension system - you'll feel like you are gliding over them!Damian BakerSun, 10 Apr 2016 11:45:00 GMTTurbos and Super Chargershttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/forcedinduction.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/forcedinduction.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/forcedinduction.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/40845__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>This article uses terminology that is explained in our Why Diesels are Different article and discusses the application of forced induction in regards to diesels. It's all about increasing the power and efficiency of internal combustion engines and this is achieved using Turbochargers and Superchargers. This article will provide you with an appreciation of what these awesome power boosters are and what they can do. Tue, 21 May 2013 03:23:00 GMTTyre Size Calculatorhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/sizecalc.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/sizecalc.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/tyres/sizecalc.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/41407__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Use this page to work out the radius, circumference and diameter of any size tyre. You can also run comparisons between different tyres and work out the differences in size and odometer corrections. The formulas will also show you the matching ExplorOz Wheel covers that match your tyres.ExplorOz Team - DavidSun, 24 May 2020 03:44:00 GMTUnderstanding Engine Conversionshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/performance.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/performance.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/performance.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/26087__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Having a vehicle that is performing well is important for reasons other than just speed and power. Improving reliability and efficiency will also result in better fuel consumption, hence reducing operating costs. In this article, we briefly look at common engine conversions for popular makes of 4WDs and we discuss the options for improving engine performance in regards to turbos, superchargers, extractors, exhaust systems and engine management chips. Fri, 27 Mar 2015 22:22:00 GMTVehicle Carehttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/vehiclecare.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/vehiclecare.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/servicing/vehiclecare.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/41036__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>This article outlines options for prolonging the life and looks of your vehicle - especially one that is used for outback travelling where it is subjected to temperature extremes, excessive dust, dirt, mud and even salt water. ExplorOz Team - DamianWed, 08 Nov 2017 19:50:00 GMTVehicle Reversing Camerahttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicles/reversing_camera.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicles/reversing_camera.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicles/reversing_camera.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/207898__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>"Rear view" or "reversing cameras" can be added as aftermarket additions to vehicles that do not come with factory-fitted systems. In this article, we outline what parts you need to put your own rear view camera system together. You may be surprised how easily and cheaply it can be done!Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:54:00 GMTVehicle Showerhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/shower.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/shower.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/shower.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/20__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Water is the single most precious commodity you need to carry for your trip. Although heavy, we need to carry it for drinking, cooking and washing. When it comes to personal hygiene during remote travels, we often scrimp on the luxuries and make do with a quick wash of the arm pits and other spots. It's this sort of roughing it that puts off some travel partners, but there is a solution.This article talks about the components in a vehicle shower system and includes tips on water reuse and temperature regulation.Damian BakerWed, 19 Jun 2013 09:57:00 GMTWater Tankhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/watertanks.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/watertanks.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/watertanks.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/223__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>Water storage is a critical issue for all four wheel drivers. Not only do you need to carry large amounts of fresh water, you also need 2 alternate supplies in case of contamination from one source. We suggest a couple of small plastic jerry cans for backup but for the main supply, the best water carrying solution is a stainless steel water tank.In this article we look at the major issues related to water storage and discuss how you can find the ideal solution for your needs.Michelle MartinSat, 27 Jan 2018 21:55:00 GMTWhy Diesels are Differenthttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/dieselengines.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/dieselengines.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/technical/dieselengines.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/40812__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>The diesel engine, named after the German engineer Rudolf Diesel, is a type of internal combustion engine that is somewhat different to a petrol engine. Air is compressed first and at around 800°C receives an atomised injection of diesel fuel which creates the ignition. These engines are more efficient than petrol engines of the same power and this results in lower fuel consumption. This article discusses the basic operation of the typical automotive diesel engine and especially, the fundamental differences between diesel and petrol engines.Ian PetersenSat, 03 May 2014 00:59:00 GMTWincheshttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/winch.aspxhttps://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/winch.aspx<a href="https://www.exploroz.com/vehicle/accessories/winch.aspx"><img src="//cdn.exploroz.com/images/Pages/38636__TN100F.jpg" border="0" align="left" hspace="5" /></a>All travellers should be capable and equipped for winching so in this article we will discuss the various winching methods and equipment on the market. Written in conjunction with one of Australia's most noted experts in winch gear, we will also discuss some important safety issues along with providing some practical tips to suit everyone from traveller to competitor.Mick Muirhead, Michelle Martin, and Damian BakerWed, 22 Dec 2021 10:36:00 GMT