CHAPTERS: SUSPENSION PERFORMANCE DRIVELINE STYLING AMAROK VIDEO
The growing popularity of 4x4 utes over the last 5 years couldn't be more evident than when German mega car company Volkswagen (VW) launched their Amarok to take advantage of the demand. Amarok seriously lifted the bar on all 4x4 Ute's for driving dynamics combined with off road ability. While not a runaway sales success when launched despite Dakar sponsorship for support vehicles and winning numerous media awards over the top selling Hilux which has enjoyed dominance for many years. The key limiting factor on demand in the Australian market is the current 2.0L bi-turbo diesel that despite punching above its weight in performance is perceived as not up to the task when compared to the 3.0L and 3.2L Hilux and Ranger variants.
Toyota actually deferred the launch of the latest generation Hilux when it went back to the drawing board following the release of the Amarok. When VW introduced the 8 speed ZF transmission in 2013,following a test drive we decided we needed to get one into the Harrop Fleet based on the incredible driving dynamics, we opted for the Trendline with optional black sports bar. Spending every week day in Melbourne traffic our goal was to build a sport truck with performance gains, pre-runner styling, great street manners and enhanced off-road capability for weekend and holiday play.
Posted on 9th February 2016 at 12:43pm
The Amarok is renowned for its smooth ride
& exceptional off road ability, leaving no questions asked to why it's
popularity has surged.
We partnered up with Tough Dog though to tweak
the suspension set up and gain an even more compliant ride on and off road. We
opted for a 40 mm lift with thanks to a set of Tough Dog Foam
Cell Shocks and Springs. Being Australian
developed they work really well with our terrain and provide flexibility if
vehicle use changes in the future for heavier loads or accessories.
Posted on 9th February 2016 at 12:45pm
Looking to excite the 2.0L bi-turbo we enhanced it with the installation of a diesel module and throttle
module, boosting power and torque output
by approximately 20%
, responsiveness and improving fuel economy.
We topped off the performance modifications with
a HPX turbo back 3" system, helping the engine
breathe easier and giving the Rok a tougher exhaust
sound.
Posted on 9th February 2016 at 12:50pm
We love to get outdoors and explore the vast trails
South Eastern Australia has to offer, from the factory the Amarok is already
fitted with selectable locking rear diff so there was no need to fit our own
ELocker. We expected an opportunity for the front diff however but when we
pulled it down we found the crown wheel is welded from the factory to the diff
centre, not bolted, preventing any ring or pinion changes and unfortunately an
ELocker up front.
We do like to find some tough
tracks and climbs, often in dusty conditions or with water crossings so
for that reason, we installed a Harrop Diff
& Trans breather kit. This kit replaces low sitting breathers and is used
to prevent water and contaminants from entering differentials, gearbox and the
transfer case (if applicable and not found
in the Amarok). We also fitted our gusseted iron
diff cover to the Amarok, protecting the rear diff
against damage caused by rocks, stumps and channel impacts. The diff cover also increases oil capability and overall diff
housing stiffness making it great for
overall durability.
Posted on 9th February 2016 at 12:55pm
The Amarok is built in Argentina and Rhino 4x4 who are also based on Argentina first developed their Dakar Rally inspired Evolution Bar for the Amarok. They are a great quality, tough replacement winch bar made from 3 and 5mm steel with integrated aluminium bash plate and LED fog lights. We optioned the bar in colour coded white powder coat and feel like it completely transforms the front end styling with a more aggressive but well integrated look without modifications to the existing body work.
We
didn't stop there, sorting out the Amarok with a new set of side steps as the
Trendline exterior remains pretty mild when exiting the factory. We fitted a set from MCC, which fit great, especially
compared to the factory supplied steps on the
higher spec models that hang far too low.
Loving the US
off-road racing scene we ordered a set of 17” Walker
Evans Wheels to increase the lift and track slightly, wrapped with 265/70R17 BF Goodrich All Terrain tyres.
Posted on 22nd February 2016 at 12:49pm
Check out our video covering all the Harrop Amarok's modifications. Don't forget to subscribe for all our updates.
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