New 4x4 Gear: Redarc battery charger, MSA 4x4 power panels, Dobinsons shock absorber

No matter what the marketing blurb says, off the dealer forecourt 4x4s aren't what we might deem bush-ready, especially if you have plans on heading off the beaten path in mind.

The good news however is that you don't have to have a degree in engineering to turn it into a proper adventure rig, instead here are a few new 4x4 products that can be easily installed and are useful out in the bush.

Redarc BCDC1250D in-vehicle battery charger

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Redarc has upped the grunt for this new, more powerful 12V dual-input 50amp battery charger. The 50amp charging output means this latest unit is Redarc’s most powerful BCDC charger. It is designed to charge lead-acid batteries and also includes a lithium charging profile.

As it has been developed to provide a higher current output, the BCDC1250D includes an additional charging stage (Soft Start) for more demanding charge applications. The unit also includes separate vehicle DC and solar inputs and can charge from the vehicle alternator and a solar panel at the same time.

The BCDC1250D is compatible with variable voltage (smart) alternators and standard ones, plus it can be used in 24V and 12V systems.

Website: www.redarc.com.au

MSA 4x4 Explorer Power Panels

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MSA continues to refine what is possible with a cargo drawer storage system, with the release of these anodised aluminium power panels for use with the company’s excellent drawer systems.

The power panels are prewired for easy fitment and feature angled sockets to make installation to the front of drawers straightforward, plus this also means when accessories are plugged in, the plug won’t hit the tailgate. The backing cover is injection-moulded to protect the rear of the switches and the wiring.

The kit includes three labelled, illuminated rocker switches, two spare switch covers, two (combined) USB outlets and two cigarette-lighter sockets. Plus there’s an illuminated voltage gauge display.

RRP: $225
Website: www.msa4x4.com.au

Dobinsons Internal Reservoir Shock Absorber (IMS)

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The team at Dobinsons Spring & Suspension have spent four years developing and extensively testing this new monotube internal reservoir shock absorber (IMS). That length of time is reflected in the top-notch design and features necessary to ensure optimum durability and performance.

The 50mm and 60mm extra-large bores mean there’s huge oil capacity, surface area and air flow to resist fade no matter how trying the terrain. The shock is of a direct bolt-on design and includes a triple-lip oil seal, vehicle-specific valving, natural rubber bushings, internal floating piston and a robust 3mm-thick wall on the outer body. Nice!

RRP: From $250
Website: www.dobinsonsprings.com