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How To install A 4WD Awning
With our harsh summers and wet winters, protection from the elements is essential whether you're at the beach for the day or camping up in the middle of the bush. One of the simplest and most affordable solutions is a pull-out 4WD awning that attaches to the side of your vehicle, letting you bring shade wherever your adventures take you. It can be daunting installing your own accessories, but this guide will show you how to easily get the job done no matter your experience level.
Quick Links:
- 4WD Awnings: Most Commonly Asked Questions
- 4 Steps For Installing A 4WD Awning
- Benefits Of Having A 4WD Awning
- Find The Best 4WD Awnings At Anaconda
4WD Awnings: Most Commonly Asked Questions
Even though they may seem pretty straightforward, there are many questions that arise when it comes to the world of 4WD awnings. From what the right size should be for your 4WD to what type of extreme weather elements they can handle, here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding 4WD awnings.
Do I need a 4WD awning?
The simple answer is yes. Regardless of whether you are going for a cruise or driving to your favourite camping destination, having a 4WD awning available will make sure you will always have some shade, privacy and protection from the elements wherever you decide to travel (and stop).
Are 4WD awnings worth it?
Even though this would seem like a subjective question, the answer to this subjective question is in fact an objective answer: yes, a 4WD awning is worth your investment. For example, why waste time looking for a shady spot to pull over and park when you can park anywhere and simply just extend your 4wd awning instead?
What size awning do I need for a 4WD?
The average 4WD awning size is around 2.5 x 2m and 2m x 2m. You can install awnings that are larger than that - but it is important to always remember that the larger measurement is the length of your vehicle and not how much it will stick out from your vehicle.
How do I choose a good 4WD awning?
There are various factors to consider when choosing the right type of 4WD awning for you. This can vary from how you intend to use your awning to what type of material it is made from for the best durability. For a much more in-depth guide, check out our article on What To Look For When Choosing A 4WD Awning.
Can 4WD awnings handle heavy rain?
Yes, 4WD awnings can handle heavy rain - as long as the awning you are considering buying is made from durable materials. There are also certain features to keep an eye out for, such as a water column to drain any excess water or featuring a mould-resistant finish like our Dune 4WD 270 Awning With Tapered Wall.
4 Steps For Installing A 4WD Awning
Installing a Dune 4WD pull-out awning is easier than you think, and it takes about half an hour to fit one to your four-wheel drive using basic tools.
Step 1:
After removing your new 4WD awning from the packaging, you'll find two strong brackets to fix the awning to your vehicle. Depending on your roof system, the steps for this will vary, but use the included bolts to attach the brackets to your roof racks so the short side extends out to the side of the vehicle.
Step 2:
Once the brackets are installed, insert the included bolts into the mounting channels on the back of the awning and slide them along so they roughly line up with the mounting brackets we installed earlier.
Step 3:
Now lift the awning up and line up the bolts on one end with the brackets, supporting the other side while you do so. Insert the bolts through the pre-drilled bracket holes and loosely screw the nuts on with your fingers, making sure to use the included washers too (don't do them up tightly just yet).
Step 4:
Next, lift up the other side and repeat this procedure so the awning is in place, but not yet tightened. You can now slide the awning forwards or backwards on the mounting channels to get the positioning just right. Once you're happy with where it's positioned, tighten the bolts firmly using spanners or a socket set.
Benefits Of Having A 4WD Awning
Having a 4WD awning provides a massive range of benefits, whether you are camping under the harsh Australian sun or trying to hide from a downpour of heavy rain. Here are some of the main benefits of having a 4WD awning installed on your vehicle:
Easy To Set Up
Whether it is a long camping trip spent over the weekend or a quick getaway during lunch, a 4WD awning could not be more simple to set up and enjoy. It only takes less than a minute to extend the awning and only requires a single person to set it up. When you need some quick privacy when setting up camp or quick protection from a sudden burst of rain, an awning is easy and quick to set up.
Protection From The Harsh Weather
Depending on where you are driving or camping in Australia, you will need protection from the harsh outdoor elements such as rain, hail, snow, wind, sleet or sun. Rather than running around trying to grab everything and take it inside, all you need to do is extend your awning instead.
Privacy
Unless you are in your tent, campsites are not exactly known for their high levels of privacy. Another major benefit of having a 4WD awning is that you will receive higher amounts of privacy. Awnings, like our Oztent Foxwing 270° Awning - Series 2, provides 270 degrees of coverage to make sure that wherever you decide to set up camp, you will have all the privacy you will need.
Much More Living Space
From simply extending out your 4WD awning, you will have much more living space to enjoy around your campsite. They provide much more space to set up a camping table, space for more camping chairs, storage space for other items or just space to stretch your legs and enjoy the great outdoors.
Find The Best 4WD Awnings At Anaconda
And just like that, your Dune 4WD awning is installed and you're ready to hit the tracks and start enjoying your next adventure! Pull-out awnings like these are one of the first modifications people usually make to their four-wheel drives for a reason, because having shelter while you're out on your adventures makes such a difference to your overall experience, and they mean that even when conditions are challenging, you can still be out there making the most of it. Also remember to check out our Adventure Centre for more 4WD tips, exciting 4WDing destinations and more, such as:
- Your Ultimate Guide To 4WDing On Sand
- Why Every 4WDer Needs A 12v Fridge
- Ultimate Guide To The Best Scenic 4WD Drives In Sydney
- Ultimate 4WD Storage Solutions & Ideas
Find your local Anaconda store and check out our extensive range of 4WD gear for your next outdoor adventure.