Buying and equipping an off-road vehicle can be costly if you don’t carefully consider your needs.
Is this accessory really necessary? Would it suit your purposes? These are just some of the questions to ask before going on a 4×4 accessories shopping spree.
In many cases, buying blindly can be an expensive mistake.
Christoffel Moolman from Canopy Centre at Swakopmund advises clients to first identify their specific needs and then consult a dealer to discuss the pros and cons of any accessories before fitting them to their vehicle.
Aftermarket suspensions are highly sought after, and Moolman says demand has grown significantly due to the expansion of tourism and the mining sector in the Erongo region.
“We’ve worked extensively with mining vehicles and understand their requirements. We ensure all vehicles delivered to the mining sector meet the necessary standards,” he says.
The team works closely with local dealers and mines to ensure all safety specifications are adhered to, according to Moolman.
Fitting accessories such as bull bars, roll bars, or roof racks require careful planning.
The wrong product or installation can be costly and compromise a vehicle’s safety specifications, Moolman says.
To address this, Canopy Centre has upgraded its workshops, equipment, and rubberising booths to meet industry standards.
Technicians are trained to install accessories according to manufacturers’ specifications.
When installing an aftermarket suspension, factors such as tyre pressure and terrain will determine optimal performance.
Standard suspensions have weight and terrain limits, and some stock suspensions are not suited to certain off-road conditions, Moolman explains.
Installing an aftermarket suspension also depends on the vehicle’s purpose and weight.
It may require longer off-road shock absorbers and upgraded coil or leaf springs (typically on the rear axle) to handle additional weight.
“If not adjusted for the extra load, vehicle dynamics can be affected.
Speak to a reputable fitment centre,” Moolman advises.
Upgraded suspension improves handling on rough terrain, making overlanding or off-road touring safer and more comfortable.
In addition to canopies, Canopy Centre offers a wide range of off-road accessories, rubberising, underbody protection to prevent rust, and protective films to safeguard vehicles.
