Charlie originally bought the Navara to use as a work ute, but the 4X4 bug found him and took a bite. It’s now mostly used to hit the tracks on the weekend and keep Charlie busy fitting new accessories in-between.
In a scenario we can all probably relate to, owning a vehicle with 4X4 capability means that you are eventually tempted to point your 4X4 down a track or two that you’d normally drive past. It’s pivotal moments like this when the humble work ute can ignite a passion for off-roading that stays with you for life.
In this respect, Charlie’s Navara work ute has a lot to answer for, as it has been instrumental in the development of his fondness for the Dargo region of the Victorian High Country. If you’ve ever been there you’ll understand, it can be a hard place to shake off.
The Dargo region of the Victorian High Country offers the off-road enthusiast the best of everything, challenging tracks, numerous river crossings, awesome camping, incredible scenery, and of course the iconic Dargo Hotel.
And it’s with that country in mind, that Charlie set about turning his humble work ute into a serious 4X4.
First item on the build menu was a bit more grunt to deal with those long, grinding, High Country climbs.
Charlie turned the wick up on the Navara’s 2.5-litre turbo-diesel, with the addition of a K&N air filter, an inter-cooler Hot Pipe upgrade, a Safari snorkel and a Flash Tune for the factory ECU.
Next on the list was some additional clearance, taken care of by a 2″ suspension lift, with heavy duty springs and a mix of Ironman 4X4 and TJM shocks. The extra room in the wheel arches allows Charlie to run 33″ Mickey Thompson MTZ muddies on 16″ steel rims.
Protection is vital in the High Country and with that in mind, Charlie fitted the Navara with a full set of ARB bash plates. He’s also fitted an ARB bull bar, side steps and brush bars.
The rear bar is a Kaymar and it’s set up to carry the spare wheel/tyre and a jerry can if needed.
The Navara might be well set-up for the forests and mountain regions of Victoria but that doesn’t mean that Charlie won’t venture further afield. He’s looking forward to introducing the Navara to the beaches of Fraser Island next month.
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