Water Tank @ ExplorOz

Space is always a premium and the most efficient and safe storage of your water is important. Remember, the roof is not a good place to store water due to the increased weight above the vehicle's standard centre of gravity. Water should be stored low in the vehicle.

To minimise risk of possible water contamination and to distribute the weight load of storing water, it is best to have at least 2 water storage solutions eg. drinking water in a stainless steel tank plus washing water in plastic jerry cans. Water in plastic can sometimes take on a strange taste and take on the smell of the plastic container, especially if you stored it for prolonged periods.

Stainless Steel Tanks

There are two options for mounting stainless tanks - underbody tanks and internal mounted water tanks. Some manufacturers offer a specific design to fit in a standard location. Others are capable of offering a customised designed using the latest technology to design the most suitable shape for a specific vehicle.

Installation and Operation

Departure angle must not be affected by installation of an under-body water tank. Most vehicles have some recess that are suitable for small tank installations, such as under the passenger seat area, in a spare wheel bay or in the rear just behind the axles.

Every make/model of vehicle will have its own issues when it comes to selecting the most practical location to install a water tank. Firstly, see what standard tanks are available for your vehicle. If there are any complications you can go direct to one of the tank manufacturers for a custom-design.

Recovery Gear Needs
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. [Feature Story]

HF Radio
HF Radios are a wise consideration if you intend to travel throughout remote regions of Australia. In this article we discuss the usefulness of HF radio in practical situations and explain the many featues and services avaialble to enhance your use of the equipment including links to suppliers and manufacturers.

Topics Index
Each Topic contains a range of detailed and useful articles on products, services and issues. This section is full of practical tips, ideas, photos and factual information.

Vehicle Shower
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.

Roof Racks, Luggage Trays & Boxes
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 with links to suppliers who sell roof rack luggage trays and storage systems.

Cargo Drawers
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.

UHF Radio
If you are considering a trip into Australia’s vast outback, then a UHF Radio is an important communications device to have. Besides the entertainment value, such as chatting with other travellers, this radio can be a valuable part of your contingency list.

Snorkel
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!

Suspension
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.

Aftermarket Seats
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?

HF Radio Installation
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.

Winches
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.

Driving Lights
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.

Portable Fridges
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.

Long Range Fuel Tanks
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.

Bull Bars, Rails & Steps
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.

Bike Carriers
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.

Accessories
Detailed articles on the complete list of vehicle accessories and equipment on today's market - includes basic essentials for weekend camping and must-have gear for setting up a 4WD for serious offroad use.

Accessories	Suspension	Long Range Fuel Tanks	Snorkel
Topics Index	Recovery Gear Needs	Cargo Drawers	Vehicle Shower
UHF Radio	Bull Bars, Rails & Steps	Bike Carriers	Aftermarket Seats
Portable Fridges	Roof Racks, Luggage Trays & Boxes	Winches	HF Radio Installation
Driving Lights	HF Radio