HARROP’S HERO

THAT KILLER CHASE RACK WAS MADE BY MELBOURNE MOB UNEEK 4X4

THIS Ranger build, clearly concocted with the style of Baja 1000 pre-runner chase cars in mind, is the brainchild of Melbournebased Harrop Engineering, and we first came across it almost five years ago.

The Harrop Ford PXII XLT Ranger’s key attribute – that killer chase rack – was made by Melbourne mob Uneek 4x4. The fully powdercoated rack comprises of the base rack, a spare wheel carrier and a roof rack, and it features custom-designed side-plates. The base rack and roof rack are Tig-welded in 6061 aluminium, and the tyre rack is made using steel.

MCC side-steps run down the vehicle’s flanks, while a lowcut Rhino 4x4 bar maintains that subtle yet strong appearance. Interestingly, that bar was originally made for a Ford Everest; so a grille from an Everest was fitted to the Ranger as a work-around.

A free-flowing exhaust system, in tandem with a Unichip Q4 tuning module, increases the response and performance of the 3.2-litre diesel engine, with torque now coming on instantly and power rising from 125kw/420nm to 157kw/536nm.

The suspension setup was masterminded by the crew at Tough Dog 4WD Suspension, with an overhaul of the stock springs and shocks lifting ride height. A Harrop E-locker fixed to the front axle now works in tandem with the factory Ford rear locker – it can be run independently if required.

A set of 285/65R18 Nitto Trail Grappler tyres accompanying the 18-inch Method wheels maintain the race-inspired look, with a matching Nitto residing on the chase rack.

It’s so good, in fact, it won our inaugural Custom 4x4 of the Year award, as voted by our readers.