Let's admit it, if you are an owner of a ute, you understand the importance of having a properly fitted ute tray for work and fun. Whether moving your tools and equipment to a construction site or loading up the equipment for a weekend trip, the ute tray accessories have to be efficient. However, like any gear ute tray accessories like any other gear often target wearing causing unpredictable problems. So here it goes with the ten most ordinary troubles and ways to avoid them and prevent your ute from becoming a useless machine.
1. Rust and Corrosion
One of the most common problems with ute trays and their add-ons is rust. Any exposure to rainwater, mud, or salt causes rusting which would worsen in steel trays or inadequately protected accessories.
How to Fix It:
- Prevention is key. Rinse your tray and accessories in a way that doesn't produce rust or use rust-proof coatings or; spray-on liners to minimize onset.
- If you do find rust, then you have to sand them, apply a rust converter then repaint the rusty area.
- Stainless steel or aluminum accessories also help discourage rusting.
2. Loose or Broken Mountings
Eventually, the vibrations and load pressure may cause the bolt or fitting holding the equipment to come loose, or in some extreme circumstances, the equipment mounts for items such as toolboxes or tie-down locations can be broken.
How to Fix It:
- Ensure the daily check and occasional tightening of all bolt, scre,w, and fitting joints.
- Employ durable fasteners that have been manufactured for application in places with high levels of usage.
- In the case of broken mounts, then they can be strengthened using other brackets or get a more robust mount.
3. Water Leakage in Toolboxes
A toolbox that leaks makes your tools wet and maybe even rust. Usually, it is small openings such as improper seams or joints on the box in question.
How to Fix It:
- Check the rubber gasket that surrounds the lid and if it is worn replace it.
- A sealant or seal cracks or gaps using the silicone type.
- Make sure that the toolbox is mounted well so that it doesn't shift or move causing some gaps.
4. Sliding or Unstable Loads
Anything placed on the tray will shift around and even become dangerous to other items in your car, including your gear.
How to Fix It:
Non-slip mats or liners should be placed on the tray floor to avoid the possibility of the incident again.
Use foldable strap bars/installation or strap binders to make sure your cargo is well secured.
Spend in space-optimized tray shelving for a well-ordered space.
5. Damage on Covers and Canopies due to Wear and Tear
Covers and canopies shield your equipment, yet they will always develop problems such as a ripped fabric, malfunctioning zipper, or shattered panel.
How to Fix It:
Sew small holes and rent with high-density stitches or repair the ruptures with tape or repair kits.
Substitute some features with durable materials like zippers with hinges, for instance, Or tiles with hinges for furniture.
For canopies, one should upgrade them to such features as polycarbonate or fiberglass reinforced.
Maintenance is Everything
The solution to these challenges is usually to maintain the facility – whose ideal frequency is a subject of significant debate. Wash and polish your ute tray as well as the various accessories, inspect for any signs of damage, and repair as soon as possible.
For your ute tray and everything related to it, these concerns need not be a worry because if handled correctly and immediately, they are easily avoidable issues that keep your accessories in good working order. Have you ever experienced any of these problems with your ute? Feel free to give your own experience or advice in the comments section below!
