- Model: 2012 Toyota 79 Series Cruiser
- Nickname: “Gold Ute,” “Pub Truck,” or “Fence Checker”
- Purpose: Built for off-road adventures, community events, and long road trips.
Key Features of the Rig
- Custom paint protection: A golden metallic finish protected with Paint Protection Film to keep it scratch-free on rugged tracks.
- Upgraded Suspension: Custom double-triangulated four-link rear suspension with King shocks ensures smooth handling and durability on challenging terrains like Cape York and the Simpson Desert.
- Bar Work & Tray: Custom bull bar, scrub bars, sliders, and an aluminum tray provide full protection and practical storage.
- Engine Power: A reliable setup with 212 horsepower and 472 Nm torque, featuring twin exhaust stacks and future plans for a turbo upgrade.
- Hub Pressurization System: Prevents water from damaging hubs during river crossings, perfect for Australia’s toughest trails.
- Fuel & Electrical Systems: Secondary fuel filter for fuel quality issues and a lithium battery with emergency reset for reliability.
- Interior Comfort: Sheepskin seat covers, aftermarket cruise control, and a high-quality sound system for long road trips.
- Wheels & Tires: KMC wheels and Goodyear mud-terrain tires deliver top performance on rocky, muddy, and sandy tracks.
Exterior Customizations
Uncle Pooly’s rig shines with a unique metallic gold finish. This bold choice wasn’t just for looks. Pooly wanted his Cruiser to stand out, inspired by a local car he’d seen around town. The golden tone gives it a personality all its own, making it unforgettable on the road and the tracks.
To keep this custom paint job looking fresh, Pooly went a step further. He covered the rig with a Paint Protection Film (PPF). This bush-protective film acts like armour, saving the paint from scratches caused by branches, rocks, and other rough terrains. Even after miles of rugged trails, the golden Cruiser still gleams, thanks to this tough protective wrap.
Suspension Modifications
This Cruiser isn’t your everyday rig. The suspension has been custom-built for strength and off-road capability. Pooly chose a double-triangulated four-link rear suspension with King shocks to handle the roughest tracks. This setup gives the Cruiser smooth handling and a strong, flexible ride on any terrain.
Getting it right took time. Pooly first tried a basic five-link system but wanted more. Over time, he tested different designs, even trying a long-arm five-link, before settling on the final version. Each change made the Cruiser better, inching closer to perfection.
The real test for this suspension came with some hardcore trips. Pooly put it through its paces on challenging runs to Cape York and the Simpson Desert. For the first time, he returned from these adventures without needing adjustments. This setup finally delivered the strength and comfort he had been chasing.
Bar Work and Protection
Pooly’s rig comes equipped with a bull bar that means business. Fabricated from scratch, this bull bar is the fourth version he’s built, each one getting stronger and more aggressive in design. It’s not just for looks; this bull bar is built to handle rough tracks and protect the front end from serious impacts.
To make the protection complete, scrub bars and sliders are welded seamlessly into the bull bar. These additions shield the sides from rocks, branches, and any obstacles in the bush. They work as a tough outer layer, keeping the Cruiser safe and sound on off-road trails.
In the back, Pooly installed a custom aluminum tray. This tray is his own design, balancing strength with practical use. It has enough space to store tools and gear, making it a solid choice for remote trips where he needs everything close at hand.
Engine and Performance Enhancements
This Cruiser puts out a solid 212 horsepower and 472 Nm of torque. The power level is kept conservative, ensuring the engine stays reliable while still offering plenty of strength for off-road challenges.
A custom 4-inch exhaust system with twin stacks on the tray gives the rig a unique look. The setup not only improves exhaust flow but also adds a tough, eye-catching edge to the overall design.
Future plans include a custom turbo upgrade. Pooly is aiming for more power without sacrificing the durability he relies on, with a unique exhaust system in the works to complement the turbo. This upgrade will give the Cruiser an extra boost for handling Australia’s toughest tracks.
Hub Pressurization System (Regulator)
An air pressure regulator with a two PSI output is installed to pressurize the front hubs. This clever system prevents water from seeping into the hubs and bearings during river crossings. It’s essential for areas like Cape York and Victoria’s High Country, where water crossings are common.
Controlled by a simple dash switch, the regulator keeps water out of vital areas, cutting down on the need for constant bearing replacements. This setup gives the internal components an added layer of protection, helping the Cruiser stay ready for any challenging terrain.
Fuel System Enhancements
A secondary fuel filter adds an extra layer of protection against impurities in the fuel. This setup is especially handy for long trips where fuel quality can be uncertain. It works to remove water and debris before they reach the engine, helping to keep performance strong and ensuring the engine lasts longer.
Interior Modifications
An aftermarket steering wheel and soft sheepskin seat covers add comfort for those long drives. These upgrades make hours on the road easier, keeping the cabin cozy for extended trips.
For sound, the rig comes with a subwoofer and quality speakers, giving a rich audio experience even in the middle of the bush. Pooly made sure the setup brings clear sound, perfect for winding tracks or open stretches.
Keeping things simple, there’s an aftermarket cruise control system and manual windows. This straightforward approach matches the rugged nature of the rig, focusing on function over unnecessary frills.
Battery and Electrical Setup
A lithium battery with 2,200 cranking amps powers the rig with strong, reliable energy. It’s designed to handle both starting and running accessories with ease. For emergencies, the battery has a reset button that lets Pooly jump-start it instantly if it ever runs flat.
The wiring is set up for simplicity, with all circuit breakers neatly organized in the engine bay. Each circuit—covering the winch, air compressors, and cabin electronics—is easy to reach, making maintenance straightforward and hassle-free.
Custom Grille and Communications
The grille stands out with the Emu customs design. This unique touch adds style, giving the rig a personal, unmistakable look.
For added practicality, GME Antennas keep the vehicle height under 2.1 meters. The antennas fold down easily, making it a breeze to access low-clearance areas without any hassle.
Wheels and Tires
KMC wheels give the rig a solid stance and are built for tough off-road conditions. They’re designed to handle rough terrains, offering strength where it’s needed most.
For tires, Pooly chose Goodyear's latest mud-terrain option. These tires provide top-notch traction and stand up well to mud, sand, and rocky tracks.
Additional Custom Elements
A performance air pod filter is currently in place, perfect for street use. Pooly has plans to upgrade to a custom air box with a standard panel filter. This choice is practical, as the panel filter is affordable and easy to find across Australia.