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ExploreOz

Making Full-Time Touring Easier, Safer, and More Organised

  • Writer: exploreoz
    exploreoz
  • Jan 31
  • 3 min read

Updated: 6 days ago



Your vehicle is more than just a way to get from A to B. For full-time travelers, it’s a lifeline. After a year on the road with our 2023 Isuzu D-Max towing our Goldstream RV Caravan, we knew it was time to elevate our setup.


We weren’t just looking for any upgrade. We wanted a setup that was organized, road-ready, and fully lifestyle-friendly. That’s where Utemaster, one of the biggest names in New Zealand and Australia, stepped in with a solution that could transform our D-Max into a fully capable touring vehicle.



Why We Chose the Utemaster Centurion MK4


For us, adventure gear is all about balancing function and style. It should work flawlessly and look the part, too. Utemaster nails that philosophy.


The Centurion MK4 aluminium canopy is a perfect example. Compared to heavy steel trays and canopies, it is strong yet lightweight. This provides a versatile and practical solution for full-time travel.


Day One: Installing the Canopy


The first day of the build took us to Ultimate Off-Road in Pakenham, Victoria. The goal was simple: remove the old sail plane and roller shutter, and install the Utemaster Centurion MK4 canopy.



Install highlights:


  • Shane tore into the old gear, uncovering dust, scratches, and signs of a full year on the road.

  • Meanwhile, Tyler tackled the cantilever roof rack, carefully assembling it for maximum load capacity.

  • The first test fit revealed just how much extra space and organization this canopy would bring.

  • The D-Max instantly felt renewed, cleaner, and more ready than ever for adventure.




Roof Rack and Load Features


The cantilever roof rack uses Strong Bones technology, mounting directly to the canopy and tub. It supports 600kg static and 200kg dynamic loads, perfect for:


  • Rooftop tents

  • Max Tracks

  • Awnings

  • Adventure gear of any kind


Adjustable crossbars make it simple to fit accessories for weekend campers, tradies, or full-time explorers.



Internal Features That Make Life Easier


Inside, the Centurion MK4 really shines:


  • The passenger-side shelving system holds up to 30kg per shelf, perfect for keeping gear organized.

  • A positive pressure dust reduction system prevents dirt and grime from sneaking in during long off-road drives.

  • The modular headboard takes inspiration from military MOLLE panels, allowing secure attachment of accessories anywhere you need them.


Days of dirt-track testing and heavy rain confirmed that the canopy keeps everything completely dry, dust-free, and safe.


Why Aluminium Canopies Make Sense


While traditional steel trays can weigh you down, the Centurion MK4 aluminium canopy is strong yet lightweight. This provides:


  • More room for essentials and gear

  • Better fuel efficiency on long trips

  • Flexibility to customize with accessories


For full-time touring, this combination of strength, weight savings, and modularity is ideal.



First Impressions and What’s Next


Even at this stage, the D-Max feels transformed. The combination of the Utemaster canopy, roof rack, and shelving turns it into a fully capable touring setup:


  • Easier to organize gear

  • Fully secure against dust, rain, and theft

  • Ready for off-road adventures



This is just part one of our D-Max build series. More accessories, interior upgrades, and tweaks will follow in future episodes.



Follow Our Journey


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Stay Tuned


There are big plans ahead for this D-Max, some even a surprise for Jess. Stick with us as we continue to upgrade, explore, and show exactly what a full-time touring setup can look like.


Never Stop Exploring.

 
 
 

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