Magazine Product Review???

[Sharky]

Just wondering what product you guys would like to see reviewed in 4WD Action?

Cheers,

Shaun

[GUDeano]

Bushranger blow up tent.

Made by Airzone in the USA. I want to know how quick it can be blown up if you have an air tank and if the fly can remain attached and an overall of quality etc plus I would like a "Stormy night" review so some big fans and heaps of water.

[grimbo]

Biodiesel fuel, which vehicles can use it and which can't. Myths vs facts. homemade versus commercial

[Marc 1]

Biodiesel fuel, which vehicles can use it and which can't. Myths vs facts. homemade versus commercial

x2.

[Chriso]

x2.
Here Here x 3

[walshy787]

Looks like a few of us are interested in this subject X4

[Sharky]

Ask and you shall receive! Brendan has written a feature on Bio Diesel which will be out next issue... plus we will have some video clips up on the web when that issue comes out.

[grimbo]

ok what about a comparison of all the different types of storage systems

[nokando]

By pass oil filtration.
What types, different filtration elements.
How to plumb, any issues with oil pressure, will this extend service intervals?

Also whilst at it, what about oil testing. How many tests before any thing significant can be read about the tests, and some basic information on reading these tests. Also who does testing.

Cheers

[miketanja]

ok what about a comparison of all the different types of storage systems

That would be good.
Also:
Roof racks - arb, tjm, 4wd systems, etc
Roof rack bags - there are so many, what to look for.
Batteries - has been done before, but not for a while.
camp lights - gas types and fluro and LED

Anyway, just a couple of things that would interest me.

[tuff80]

What about air tanks around the 3litre to 10 litre size.Or water storage systems both internal for drinking and external for showering, between 20L to 40L capacity.

[steelo]

Mechanically wise, umm what about petrol to diesel conversions & everything involved.
Camping, I agree with GUDeano.
Travel, I think you're doing & covering just about everything. Maybe just grade them in the recognised codes.
Jokes/comedy section?
:thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

[Big Boots]

Lots of people ask about 'em and lots of us have 'em. How about a swag comparo.

[Chriso]

What about winch comparison. Brand, type (electric/hydraulic), place of manufacture, compatability with bars, power steering pumps etc.

[TUFF IFS LUX]

How about an update on the DOTARS reform thingy. You know, the national vehicle modifications standards they were talking about a while back?

How close is it to implementation, what will be allowed and what won't?

and a story on bodylifts on new 4x4's with airbags. why some can and some can't????

[Rossi_G]

and a story on bodylifts on new 4x4's with airbags. why some can and some can't????


x2:thumb:

[tasmq]

How about a funny photo section , like 1 or 2 shots per month of trucks in funny or precarious situations and a breif outline of whats happened
And all these ideas sound good.

[diehard]

How about a product test of the top 20 selling beers....ya might as well enjoy your work :thumb:

[fullmetaljacket]

How about a product test of the top 20 selling beers....ya might as well enjoy your work :thumb:

would take too long for the product testing side......and the article would be written in slur on a stained beer coster.

how bout a camera review DSLR and compacts (would fit in well with the "outback photographer"), would be a hard one though, like computers they upgrade all the time

[ChunkyCharcoal]

How to on a cheap in car laptop setup to run Oziexplorer and GPS mapping + DVDs mp3s and TV.

Kind of a budget beater with a list of things you will need ie; basic laptop, inverter, software etc...

[grimbo]

ok what about a comparison of all the different types of storage systems
just noticed the latest Gold Label has done this

[DX80]

A comparison on all of the different auto lockers on the market

[TUFF IFS LUX]

A comparison on all of the different auto lockers on the market

x2 and the pros and cons of each, plus the duarability of them, warranty, ease and cost of fitting etc etc etc

[Sharky]

Thanks for the imput guys, we are starting to get together a pretty good list. As for the beer review, i might do a bit of after hours work this weekend and see how that goes...

Cheers, Shaun

[stu050]

Thanks for the imput guys, we are starting to get together a pretty good list. As for the beer review, i might do a bit of after hours work this weekend and see how that goes...

Cheers, Shaun

Get Roothy to give you a hand with a totally unbiased view. :D

[Muckinhell]

I'd love to see reviews from trucks that are the oldies now or more so there press release stating what they could be optioned with at the time and types of models they had and configurations etc.

say somethihg like when the fj55 came out or the series 111 landrover etc. could do a diffrent truck each issue. Would be very intersting to see what was available when our oldies were bashing around in them or wanting to trade up to them.

[steelo]

Yep, I'll go with that, not make but model & also what is available NOW for them you now the old then & now thing.:D

[Twisty]

It's been a few years since a shock absorber comparo....and there is a few new brands and types on the market these days....

[peteinoz]

and a story on bodylifts on new 4x4's with airbags. why some can and some can't????

Ditto

[peteinoz]

and a story on bodylifts on new 4x4's with airbags. why some can and some can't????

Ditto

[Celt's]

It's been a few years since a shock absorber comparo....and there is a few new brands and types on the market these days....
x2 would be good to see some of the new ones both for comp/touring/weekend work!

[lowgear]

How about technical in depth comparason on single item of vehicles, example compare similar capacity common rail TD motors from different manufacturers, their pros and cons, aspects that may make one example tougher and another less reliable, some things that could be costly to replace such as injectors compared to less costly injectors, and come up with a winner using criteria such as reliability, economy, cost of repair, etc. And in other comparasons compare drivelines, interiors etc.

[BJ73 LX Lover]

Not sure if it's already been done as I'm a newby, but how bout a gadjet section on GPS's and the like.

[tartan torpedo]

would like to see a reveiw on the new 2007 land rover defender and how it compairs to similar trucks.:truck:

[Tri_Lon]

How to on a cheap in car laptop setup to run Oziexplorer and GPS mapping + DVDs mp3s and TV.

Kind of a budget beater with a list of things you will need ie; basic laptop, inverter, software etc...

x2 that is something that im wanting to do in the coming months.

maybe a motorized screen in dash or replace to a double din straight screen. with touch screen to eliminate/minimise the need for keyboard/mouse

[Unsane]

When the fridge comparo was done, why was Trailblaza excluded?

It has been great in the past when comparisons have been done the products are off the shelf and not tweaked or had intervention from manufacturers.

Multi tools would interst me, although I've had a SOG Power Plier for years and years now.

[Defender=1st]

I'd love to see reviews from trucks that are the oldies now or more so there press release stating what they could be optioned with at the time and types of models they had and configurations etc.

say somethihg like when the fj55 came out or the series 111 landrover etc. could do a diffrent truck each issue. Would be very intersting to see what was available when our oldies were bashing around in them or wanting to trade up to them.

would like to see a reveiw on the new 2007 land rover defender and how it compairs to similar trucks.:truck:

X2 ! that would be great.
also i wanna see another Bush mechanic with an old Land rover, old Cruiser, and Old Nissan all of the same vintage.

[bushpig59]

How to on a cheap in car laptop setup to run Oziexplorer and GPS mapping + DVDs mp3s and TV.

Kind of a budget beater with a list of things you will need ie; basic laptop, inverter, software etc...
x2 Ditto

And also how about how to wire up some spots on the bull bar and on the roof rack article

all the best from bushpig59 ;-)

[pickle]

Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and seeing that they will be compulsory on all US vehicles in 2008. Also did a reveiw on a set and was suitably impressed with them.
Dave

[Michi]

How to on a cheap in car laptop setup to run Oziexplorer and GPS mapping + DVDs mp3s and TV.

Kind of a budget beater with a list of things you will need ie; basic laptop, inverter, software etc...

X 2 Thx.

Cheers

[Goldielux]

Looks like a few of us are interested in this subject X4
how to make it or where to get at a decent price.

[Goldielux]

No disrespect meant but a would a product review from a mag be biased depending which company spends the most $$$ advertising in whatever mag it happens to be, there use to be a mag called "sidetrack" the mag is no longer around because he (the owner) gave bad reviews to certain products and they pulled their ads.
I think a "internet product review" would be more practical, but I could be wrong.

[LPGQ4.2AUTO]

Cheap mods for old rigs like GQ's, MQ's, 60 series etc.

[stets]

the bio-diesel issue is a good 1, do you have to have a special type of fuel filter, etc. power loss, can you mix it with normal diesel, what about this new diesel/lpg conversion stuff i keep hearing about.....

[shane1962]

I would like to see more everyday rigs own buy the average joe how have just got into 4x4 and havnt spent big dollars yet then follow them up every 12 months and see how far they have got setting them up for their needs.

[steelo]

What about a bit of contest like 4wdoty but English V's USA V's Japan V's Germany etc, etc. Which country builds the best 4b's & while were talking about that type of thing is there any 4wd comps out there that are country V's country. Poms, Kiwi's, Frogs, Yanks, Aussie etc. Not ordinary rallies though, but something like that, winching, timed runs, obstacle's, hill climbs that sort of thing.
Ah well just some thoughts.:confused: :D :drink:

[goose]

x2 and the pros and cons of each, plus the duarability of them, warranty, ease and cost of fitting etc etc etc

A comparison on all of the different auto lockers on the market

Yep. I'd be very interested in this review. Find out for sure if the myths are true.

[MAD4X4MAN]

Hi, I would like to see air bag systems tested as I am doing a air bag set up in my 80. I'm not talkin those silly helper bags either, I'm talking proper systems.

[goldrush]

How about a story on accessories for us beach bums such as roll out awnings , rod holders etc.

[LPGQ4.2AUTO]

More buying used guides ( like the Jackaroo in the latest issue ) for older 4wd's (GQ's, MQ's 60 Series) etc. More up to date new vehicle development news on new 4wd's (dare l say it, but like 4x4 Australia etc.)

[steveandviv]

x2 that is something that im wanting to do in the coming months.

maybe a motorized screen in dash or replace to a double din straight screen. with touch screen to eliminate/minimise the need for keyboard/mouse

I reckon yopu do do that as a Monthly item - Like GPS Tech. Go through start up Way points loading maps etc.

[roscoFJ73]

How about a serious test on those fuel saver gadgets? They make some pretty outrageous claims with little scientific evidence to back them up.
hI CLONE would be the most obvious one:D

The exploroz forum stopped accepting the advertising revenue from one particular gadget when they refused to offer proof of their claims.

[steveandviv]

Also -

Solar pannel comparison. Maybe set up to run the fridge and what's needed - best unit IE, brand, watts, those roll out ones, flexible one.

[1TUFFGQ]

How to on a cheap in car laptop setup to run Oziexplorer and GPS mapping + DVDs mp3s and TV.

Kind of a budget beater with a list of things you will need ie; basic laptop, inverter, software etc...
I second that motion!
What about a touring tent comparison. People are always criticizing tourers because it's not a particular brand, yet I still meet the odd person who had the kahunas to buy one and they haven't looked back.
p.s. I would be more than happy to test one on my next 5 day high country trip on the upcoming cup weekend.:D

[Rip'n'Shred]

x2 that is something that im wanting to do in the coming months.

maybe a motorized screen in dash or replace to a double din straight screen. with touch screen to eliminate/minimise the need for keyboard/mouse.


Definately - with locations of where to buy stuff from - plenty in USA (mp3.com i think)

I reckon yopu do do that as a Monthly item - Like GPS Tech. Go through start up Way points loading maps etc.

I agree, with laymans terms.

[Marc 1]

Hi guys,

Suggestion for a workshop piece on shifting rusted/rounded or overtightened bolts/nuts/fasteners.

On the threads there have been at least 2 or 3 people asking advice on how to budge a diff filler plug or transfer case bolt. Some of the suggestions by the old hands and mechanics are great, but a mechanical moron like me would like to see some of these techniques on video or in pictures before taking to a bolt with for example a cold chisel.

Some of the techniques may include (from what I've been able to pick up here), using penetrating products like penetrene/wd40, stillsons, nutbreakers, heat, cold, welding a socket on etc. Waddaya say, feel like picking up a few old diffs at the wreckers and showing us how it's done?

Cheers, Marc1

[LPGQ4.2AUTO]

How about putting in the date when the next issue will come out?

[Nasty Nav]

I reckon do a spotlight piece on a fiew forum members and there spouses. I Reckon my wife is the best learner. She can get out there and rip it up with the best of em now i think. Now she wants me to build her a hot pink zook to play with.

[grimbo]

an explanation of the term rated and what that actually means when buying recovery equipment, bolts etc. As many people just hear the word rated and think it is ok without actually finding out rated for what actual use.

[Gadj]

I say yes please to all suggestions so far. I would love to see the occaisional article on historical off roaders be they war machines like Chev/Ford "Blitz" or The Unimog through latter day classics like Internationals offerings, I find them all interesting. and the technology is relevant to our pursuits.:thumb:

Regards,
Trev

[tasmq]

Good point Grimbo the ratings on somethings mean differant things on others.
I would like to see more on older trucks also as there are a lot of us who cannot afford or do not want these new less capable and in many cases plastic wanna be 4x4s.
I would also like to see what new gadgets are available.

[cowboy]

i agree on all the sergestions i like the the idea of tasmq and i could put 1 in my self for that along with photo's -what about recommended mechanics that every 1 uses and there work shops say petrol and diesel for those that are less mechanical say tune ups repairs for locals or travelers as a guide over a period of time

[shanegtr]

How about roof top tents?

[Pmc]

all sounds good so far i agree expand the news section to contain more manifacture and local relevant information, and maybe whats happening internationally in the 4wd scene as this would show be a pre curser to what might happening the aussie 4wd scene in years to come

[MUDRATGQ]

an explanation of the term rated and what that actually means when buying recovery equipment, bolts etc. As many people just hear the word rated and think it is ok without actually finding out rated for what actual use.X2 an a proper explenation of what load's can be put on these things EG 4.5 ton rated bow shackle on a 2.8 ton rig in a bog to the sills wich doubls the load on all the points at wat point will this be to much load for the thing to let go maybe a stress test on all of these things as we know there rated a 4.5 ton but at how much more load would it take for one of these things to let go

[MY-TD6i]

Latest update in products eg Top 10 or top 5 new mud tyres on the market(eg. released over the last 18 mths) then have them compare to the older BFG, Cooper, G/year etc. then could be done on A/T tryes.

or suspention kits, Dobinson, OME, EFS, RANCHO, 4WAY etc


not like just grab 10 any old muddies.. but something that when people are in the market for new tyres they have something to compare, some people may just use BFG for 15 years because they might not know there's anything better.........I know it'd help me out!

[MUDRATGQ]

I would like to see another bush mecanic challange type thing but incorparate maybe some of the cheaper aftermarket gear in the rigs like cheap aftermarket suspention setup set of lokrights an other stuff just to show what you can do on a budget to have a very capable truck for the simple fact that not everyone has a million dolar budget yeah ive got ARB Lockers OME Suspention in my rig but what about those who dont earn as muchor are just getting into 4wding an dont want to spend a huge amount of money buying an setting up a rig. you know say 2 grand for a rig an 3 on suspention an lockers an that sort of thing.Just a thought Cheers an Keep up the Great Work Mudrat

[Kerri]

I'd like to see a comparo between the Smart Bar bullbar and an alloy or steel bar. A bullbar that can take a hit and bounce back sounds like a good thing to me!:D

[NissanNutter]

Comparo between Waeco and Engle :)

[DatoNut]

I would like to see another bush mecanic challange type thing but incorparate maybe some of the cheaper aftermarket gear in the rigs like cheap aftermarket suspention setup set of lokrights an other stuff just to show what you can do on a budget to have a very capable truck for the simple fact that not everyone has a million dolar budget yeah ive got ARB Lockers OME Suspention in my rig but what about those who dont earn as muchor are just getting into 4wding an dont want to spend a huge amount of money buying an setting up a rig. you know say 2 grand for a rig an 3 on suspention an lockers an that sort of thing.Just a thought Cheers an Keep up the Great Work MudratX2 would love to see pat do another dvd i reckon pat an roothy make a great team pair of larakins.Cheers an thanks for a great mag Datonut.

[DGR01]

Latest update in products eg Top 10 or top 5 new mud tyres on the market(eg. released over the last 18 mths) then have them compare to the older BFG, Cooper, G/year etc. then could be done on A/T tryes.

not like just grab 10 any old muddies.. but something that when people are in the market for new tyres they have something to compare, some people may just use BFG for 15 years because they might not know there's anything better.........I know it'd help me out!

Yes how about a real world "OFFROAD" tyre test!!! A real test in which the tyres are tested to the limit in terms of sheer offroad performance!!

EG: Get specific manufactures to supply their tyres to us for a full weekend of testing/photo shoot. The test could be performed on a vehicle which can truly test the performance charastics of each tyre. My suggestion would be to let us drive the ROVER PARK WEROCK courses on our "control" tyre, then set-by-set try and replicate each obstacle along the course, continually assessing performance. Obstacles would be 'wild-offcambers', steep rock climbs and technical - turning dropoffs . . . . . . and so on!!

Over the years of competing we have had the opportunity to try almost all brands of tyres, and i can say this would be one of the best vehicles for comparitive testing.

(If the powers that be ACTUALLY read this section it would be nice to hear some feedback)

[beast2h]

maybe a test between bullbar brands! eg ARB, Tjm, Ironman, etc, etc

[stets]

dunno about a review as such but maybe a step by step warn winch service/ overhaul

[vernem]

I would like to see a real-world review of different uhf arials. Park 4by on flat terrain and park sophisticated detector 10 km away. Swap arials on 4by and see which one is more easily detected. Do the same with 4by parked in a gully and detectors 5 km away.

[woolgoolgaoffroad]

what about
- torches
- inverters
- beadlocks
- battery isolater switches
- showers
- side steps ( dont laugh )

non 4wd stuff
- difference in the ''meg'' when taking pics
- camping toilets
- difference in tents
- powerpacks

[ozriderxj]

Originally Posted by DX80
A comparison on all of the different auto lockers on the market


x2 and the pros and cons of each, plus the duarability of them, warranty, ease and cost of fitting etc etc etc

I'd be very interested in a pratical comparison of Auotlockers V Manual Lockers etc, not a tech blurb, a 'show us how they work and how good they are' test, similar to the 3 x Prado comparison you did in one of the DVD's

[4b.MAD]

Had a quick skim of the posted ideas and I would like to see the following:

1. DIY in car Laptop/GPS system (seems to be a common thread),
2. Hiclone vs Exhaust Mods vs Computer Chips on Turbo Diesels,
3. Follow up on Diesel-Gas benifits - a real world evaluation on perofrmance, reliability and savings,
4. Feature a few more female driver/enthusiasts and wives (goes well with the missus),
5. How about featuring a few more vehicles in QLD/FNQLD/other states (tired of seeing NSW trucks with - seemingly- no restrictions).

ok, thats my two bobs worth.

[bstx]

rooftop tents
bush camping spots
mabie a big boys wish list /pro n cons/and prices (what could you have on one 4by )

[philby]

Lifting IFS 4wd's - like the 100 series cruiser - the complications, the options to keep the CV's alive etc. What works , what doesn't. limitations etc, who makes / supplies the aftermarket gear for such a lift etc., costs

[feet in 2 camps]

A comparison between brands of "crossover"tyres-tread patterns between muddies & all terrains,
Assessmant of performance boosters e.g. hyclones, exhaust mods,
3 way fridges,
Comparisons of auto & air lockers & compare auto lockers with each other, locations of wreckers who deal with unusual items like electric winch parts,
a review of brawn portable winches,
review of the cheap winches sold on e-Bay.
Cheers.

[kitacooch]

Latest update in products eg Top 10 or top 5 new mud tyres on the market(eg. released over the last 18 mths) then have them compare to the older BFG, Cooper, G/year etc. then could be done on A/T tryes.

or suspention kits, Dobinson, OME, EFS, RANCHO, 4WAY etc


not like just grab 10 any old muddies.. but something that when people are in the market for new tyres they have something to compare, some people may just use BFG for 15 years because they might not know there's anything better.........I know it'd help me out!

I agree, am not happy with my tyres at the moment as am a relative newbie i have not much of an idea of where to start. Have looked at the many discussions on the forums but everyone has there own opinion and you end up with a list of tyres longer than the list created from the shops. I would love to see a controlled on track comparison of the better tyres and see them in action on different terains by independant experts with no conflict of interest.

[woolgoolgaoffroad]

not exactly a product review, but what about
- the ins and outs of the magazine,
- a day in the life ( of say Glenn, etc )
- the organizing of say 10 4wds for a certain test,
- what goes wrong ( hiccups with freight,deadlines, etc)
- say a rundown on who really does what with the mag with pics
- do a forum run down
- on a 2 page spread- forum members with a pic and history



kev

[Peanut]

A comparative test done on compressors. Broken up into say, up to $150, $151 - $300 and $301 plus. That way people who are on a limited budget can get a good idea on the best they can afford.

[woolgoolgaoffroad]

do a review on first aid kits. I know it has been done before but what about
''whats really in a kit and is it effective for our conditions ??''
''what to add''

[woolgoolgaoffroad]

heres another thought, how about a page of readers tips, and home made devices/improvements they have made for home/camping/their 4wd or camper

[celibaterifle2865]

How about a diesel/gas vs aftermarket turbo comparison. Take to 2 motors of the same type eg. 1HZ and add a turbo to one and gas to the other. Should be able to get some real world results on changes to power, economy, driveability etc.

[steveandviv]

not exactly a product review, but what about
- the ins and outs of the magazine,
- a day in the life ( of say Glenn, etc )
- the organizing of say 10 4wds for a certain test,
- what goes wrong ( hiccups with freight,deadlines, etc)
- say a rundown on who really does what with the mag with pics
- do a forum run down
- on a 2 page spread- forum members with a pic and history



kev

hey kev, that is a great idea. :waycool:

[steveandviv]

Maybe a page on *Readers Recipies* The great outback feast. Tips and not so good tips:D

[woolgoolgaoffroad]

along your lines steveandviv.........................''recipies gone wrong''

[steelo]

What about a bit of mag history ie say in mag umm 122 show some of the 4b's, travel, accessories & stories from mag 1. Then say in every 2nd mag follow on, 124 show bits of 2, 126 show bits of 3 etc. Also who was involved with the mag back in those times & the mags lay-out, all in about a couple of pages or so.:D
Just a thought.

[cheno]

Would like to see a review of the Endless Air Compressor. That's the one that is a reco'd aircon unit. The company has been advertising them in the mag for a long time. I started reading since issue 64.
Also with viability to run tanks for equipment off it incl. air lockers.
A sarcastic person would say they've been overlooked. A mate has a homemade one and it blows away (sorry) my 12volt one. Really!

[error]

How about a "Meet the Locals" section when ever you guys are traviling about make a day where you can meet up with the local clubs & 4x4 people. Put the days & places up on here in advance...
Meet at a local landmark...
- It gives a plug to the local clubs.
- Gets people like me who are not in a club involved.
- You get the chance to see some more rigs.
- Can build up a list of good spots & clubs around Australia to contact for trips.
- Most important the community in general gets to see a lot of 4x4's in a good light... & we don't become just another group of ratbags....

[steelo]

How about a "Meet the Locals" section when ever you guys are traviling about make a day where you can meet up with the local clubs & 4x4 people. Put the days & places up on here in advance...
Meet at a local landmark...
- It gives a plug to the local clubs.
- Gets people like me who are not in a club involved.
- You get the chance to see some more rigs.
- Can build up a list of good spots & clubs around Australia to contact for trips.
- Most important the community in general gets to see a lot of 4x4's in a good light... & we don't become just another group of ratbags....


Sounds like a good one there, don't know if they would have the time, all the time, but still a good one. :thumb:

[Fender nut]

How to on a cheap in car laptop setup to run Oziexplorer and GPS mapping + DVDs mp3s and TV.

Kind of a budget beater with a list of things you will need ie; basic laptop, inverter, software etc...

X2. ive been thinking of doing this myself with my old laptop

[cobber]

Would like to see a review of the Endless Air Compressor. That's the one that is a reco'd aircon unit. The company has been advertising them in the mag for a long time. I started reading since issue 64.
Also with viability to run tanks for equipment off it incl. air lockers.
A sarcastic person would say they've been overlooked. A mate has a homemade one and it blows away (sorry) my 12volt one. Really!
Cheno, I 'd like to see a review on the Endless Air Compressor also - been thinking about getting one, but have never seen it reviewed anywhere.

[stets]

the endless air is a good idea for a full review.

but after seeing the uhf comparo, then the winch comparo, (man that was good) a similar type of comparo for spotties (everything from cheap narva lights right up to the big gun HIDs) and maybe light globes for headlights.

they tend to be one of those items that everybody has