Utes, tradies and Aussies have a long shared history together. They have kept changing throughout the years, however the basic elements remained the same. Finding new ways to use an ute never gets old, so you can always find some new adaptation of an already known approach.
They can vary by design, function, personal preference, occupational circumstances or business requirements, but they usually revolve around modifying ute trays. The popularity of these adaptations is fresh as ever, since they are done even to the newest models coming out of factories.
Permanent vs Removable Canopies
It is always better to have more options on your hands. Installing a fixed and permanent canopy considerably limits your options in the long run. I would go for removable canopy. Every time. Yet, there is the concern about the time and manpower included in the process. Many newcomers ask are these ute canopies easy to remove? If you attach them with a clean and simple system of bolts, the transformation can be done in minutes. You can also use clamps or maybe fit turnbuckles. It comes down to the type of load the lift canopy will carry and how many people do the job, but it is generally fairly easy.
Lift off Ute Canopies
This has to be one of the most prominent dual purpose ute accessories out there. It’s the ultimate embodiment of the ‘work hard play hard’ ethos. During the week you have a workhorse ute to take your tools and your load on site. And during the weekends you displace the jack off canopy and use the ute tray to transport your favorite toys (bikes, surfboards, skis, kayaks) to a place of leisure of your choosing.
The exact configuration of your lift off ute canopy may vary. Usually it’s a storage unit made of heavy duty material with access from both lateral sides of the vehicle. The distinctive feature of this ute cargo contraption are the jack off legs which allow you to lift and hold the canopy in place. Obviously good lift off ute canopies have durable legs from galvanized steel. This is essential piece of gear to be able to remove your canopy at will.
Apart from the legs, a typical lift off canopy will have secure doors fitted with gas struts for easy operation. There can be one or up to five doors. When you look for this type of ute cover pay close attention to the seals and hinges. The seals better be made out of rubber to be weather resistant. The quality in the manufacturing process can be estimated by the materials used for details like piano hinges and locks.
Internal structure is best if fully seam welded and supported from the inside. Some opt for having compartments or shelves inside – they need to be able to withstand the regular vibration that comes with any vehicle moving on wheels.
In theory, one can use any material. Yet marine grade aluminium is the preferred option because it handles the wear from the elements with ease. It’s strong and lightweight at the same time. Some go for no slip checkerboard finish, but that is optional.
Cross Deck Canopy
These are also very popular type of canopies. They usually sit behind the cab of the ute, but they can be fixed in the middle or on the far end of the ute tray. This is one of the reasons they are also called part tray – you got one part of the tray covered, while the rest is available for any need you have.
Typical configuration implies two doors to the lateral sides of the ute. They make for very convenient tool boxes because of this ease of access once you leave the cabin.
The basic features regarding build and materials are to a great extent similar with those of removable lift off canopies described above. They all apply here as well. You want to have enclosure that is able to withstand beating from the elements, for it is continually exposed to the environment. Fittings have to be top notch: your rubber seals, gus struts, piano hinges, locks are what make the canopy durable and resistant. Go for fully welded construction from corrosion resistant metal.
Dual Cab Ute Canopy
This famous rendition of the ute canopy deserves a place in the three most popular covers. It’s distinctive feature is the semblance with the original cabin of the vehicle, hence dual cab. In terms of size it can occupy exact space as the original cab, or it can be extended to cover the ute tray in its entirety.
Don’t let the name fool you though, this is still not a regular cabin. Not until you invest in all type of sealants to make it water and dust proof. So, not that great for people, valuable or breakable cargo. However any other load will do, especially if the enclosure is done to high standards.
Typical configuration includes two doors on the sides (kind a like ute wings, when opened), however it can have as many openings as you require. Craftsmanship has to be very good to get extended service life and utility of your dual cab canopy.
This form of ute storage can be even more versatile than the previous two. The budget you are ready to set aside for such project is one of the most important conditions. You can make it good addition to your workhorse, you can use it for leisure, or to do business.
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