OPERATION200: PARTTHREE FEATURE
NO BULL
In the past, adding a bullbar was one of the first additions to any offroader's arsenal of options. They have become a sign of hard road travel for any wanna-be outback traveller. Lately, though, they are more of a considered accessory as we explore weight and safety issues. Rather than just installing a bar as a matter of course, owners need to consider how, when and where they intend to travel as well as checking their vehicle's weight capacity. Let's review these as a background as to why we chose an Ironman 4x4 Premium bar for our 200 Series upgrade.
Adding weight to any vehicle, especially one used for towing a big van, isn't as straightforward as it might be. Most cars have a limited payload, and once you add accessories and a van onto the towball, it's easy to exceed the legal and safe limit the manufacturer specifies. If you have been following our Operation 200 upgrades, you will know that we started our journey with a stock GX LandCruiser by installing a Tough Dog gross vehicle mass upgrade. This gave us a payload close to a tonne and plenty of scope for adding accessories and cargo.
With decades of offroad vehicle ownership behind me, I'm both a creature of habit and a realist. My last 10 or so vehicles through Landrovers, HiLuxes, Navaras, Prados and a collection of 100 Series have all had bullbars. Have I ever hit a bull? No, but I have seen enough close calls to confirm a protection bar is a must if you plan to travel at night, which we often do. No set rule exists for those who avoid nighttime travel in the bush. Still, you risk damage to the all-important radiator if you hit any animal at speed, and that is the difference between being towed home or making it under your own steam. Factor that in if you're a day's drive from help.
