Best 4x4 gear of 2017: Ironman 4x4 power pack, Blackwolf tent, EFS bullbars and more

2017 was huge for quality aftermarket kit. Here are six of the best.

DOMETIC WAECO CFX FRIDGE

THE Dometic Waeco CFX portable fridge range has been launched. A highlight of the new range is that the units feature the latest Wi-Fi technology, allowing users to control and monitor temperatures remotely using a phone app. Variable Motor Speed Optimisation ensures required temperatures are reached faster and more efficiently, and this is aided with the inclusion of extra-thick polyurethane insulation. The CFX range is ideal for use with solar panels. Features include a robust lid latch and hinges, factory-fitted spring-loaded handles, a USB charging port, LED lighting, a flush-mounted evaporator plate and much more.

Website: apac.dometic.com/Australia
RRP: $1199 (34.5L); $1299 (41L); $1449 (50L); $1599 (65L); $1899 (94.5L)

PWR INTERCOOLER AND PIPE KIT

TAP into your Ford Ranger’s (or Mazda BT-50’s) potential with PWR’s fully engineered intercooler and pipe kit. For maximum durability, the heavy-duty, square-faced tube and fin design is tested and manufactured in Australia’s harshest conditions.

Fully TIG-welded, the kit is available in polished aluminium or Stealth Black powdercoating. Handy with the spanners? The kit can be self-installed in less than two hours.

Website: www.pwr.com.au RRP: $1540

YAKIMA LOCKN’LOAD

THE new LockN’Load range unveiled recently by Yakima Australia is centred on a new Australian-designed rooftop cargo platform.

The platform works with mounting kits designed for 4WDs to provide maximum strength and durability. A broad range of 4WD accessories will support the LockN’Load platform including brackets for recovery tracks, gas bottles, high-lift jacks, awnings and spare wheels. Keep out a keen eye for initial products coming soon, as well as expansions to the range.

Website: yakima.com.au

IRONMAN 4X4 PORTABLE POWER PACK

THIS new 44ah portable power pack from the team at Ironman 4x4 packs plenty of grunt – and features – inside its tough exterior case. The power pack’s list of features includes a digital voltage and amperage meter, the option to charge via 240V AC, 12V DC and solar panels, and a low-battery warning system.

The pack has the ability to power 12V and 5V DC appliances, such as mobile phones, camp lighting and fridge/freezers. The heavy-duty ABS case includes a folding integrated handle that makes lugging the unit around easy. Outlets include a 12V DC cigarette lighter socket and a merit socket, plus there’s a 5V DC USB port for electrical gadgets.

The unit’s individual on/off switches include an LED indicator for ease of checking, and the power pack’s compact size means it won’t take up too much cargo space. It’s available from all Ironman 4x4 outlets.

Website: www.ironman4x4.com RRP: $499

BLACKWOLF TENT

OFF to the outback? Then you’ll need a serious tent to make the nights as comfortable as possible. BlackWolf has you covered, literally, with its new, lightweight Mantis Ultralight. We don’t use the term lightweight loosely either, as this tent is 30 per cent lighter than its predecessor.

This rugged and waterproof tent is perfect for the avid explorer. There are two tents available, with the UL 2 model having doors and vestibules on both sides.

Website: www.blackwolf.com.au RRP: $329.99 (UL 1); $399.99 (UL 2)

EFS ADVENTURE SERIES BULLBARS

EFS has released a premium steel bullbar range for a number of popular 4x4s: Toyota Hilux, LC76-79 Cruisers, Nissan Navara NP300, Mazda BT-50 (2011-16), Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton (2015-onwards), Holden Colorado (2012-16), and Isuzu D-Max (2012-onwards).

The bar was designed, tested and developed here in Australia and features an oversized 63mm tube bar fitted with LED indicators and driving lights. The bar is also winch-compatible thanks to its inbuilt winch cradle mount, and it also has lower bar bash plates and twin radio aerial mounts. The EFS Adventure bars are ADR-compliant and meet all vehicle airbag regulations.

Website: www.efs4wd.com.au RRP: $1480