Take your offroad adventures up a notch with a 4WD Awning. This nifty bit of kit not only makes your vehicle look the business when it's driving around town but provides the ultimate protection from the Aussie elements when you're chasing that BCFing Feelin'. Whether it's been raining cats and dogs for days, or you need reprieve from too much sun – with a 4WD Awning in tow… it's easy!
Now, attaching one of the beauties to your 4-wheeled beast certainly isn't rocket science, but that doesn't mean a few tips wouldn't go astray. Check out our step-by-step guide to help point you in the right direction and a sneaky vid from our good mate Josh Collins doesn't hurt either:
1. Ensure you have all the tools you need for installing a 4WD Awning
There's more to it than just buying an awning and bob's your uncle, having all the gear you need close at hand will make life much easier! Here is what you'll need:
- 4WD awning kit
- Mounting brackets and hardware (Comes included in the kit)
- Spanner
- Measuring tape
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Pencil or marker
- Ladder (for those vertically challenged)
2. Choose where you would like to position the awning
It's important to position the awning correctly on your vehicle with enough clearance for it to be fully extended without obstruction. Depending on what type of awning you go with, most will either be installed on your roof rack or side rail. When it comes to choosing a side, it all comes down to personal preference!
3. Mount the brackets
This is easily the most important part of the installation process! Be sure to take your time and be careful not to damage any components. Depending on your set up, the brackets may simply bolt onto your roof rack and in some other cases, drilling might be required. Assess the options for your roof rack before you go putting any holes in your pride and joy!
4. Insert bolts
Once your L-bracket is attached it's time to switch our focus to the awning. Insert the included bolts into the mounting channels on the back of the awning and slide them along so they roughly line up with the mounting brackets
5. Attach the awning
This is where you cash in that favour from a mate! Lift the awning into place and insert the bolts through the pre-drilled bracket holes, before ensuring everything is tightened properly with a Spanner!
6. Adjust the position
Once installed, you can now make any final adjustments. Use a level to ensure the awning is straight and adjust accordingly.
7. Tighten all components
Double-check all nuts, bolts and screws are tightened securely and if there's any movement give them a little extra elbow grease
8. Test the awning
Once your awning has been installed, try setting it up to make sure it functions smoothly. There's no better way to test out your new awning than by enjoying a few coldies underneath it.
Adding a 4wd awning to your rig is an easy way to enhance any outdoor adventure! Whether you're venturing offroad, hitting the beach or sticking to the bitumen – these beauties let you take that BCFing feelin with you! Offering up the ultimate in portable protection, whether it be from the sun or rain, with a design that's convenient and oh so simple to set up. With the steps outlined in this blog, you should have no dramas installing a 4WD awning yourself – let the BCFing fun begin!