PROJECT UNIMOG
Our custom project modifying a Unimog truck, caravan and boat with reinforced tray, winch system, solar setup and more.
The Ultimate Aussie Built Adventure, by BTA Industries
At BTA Industries, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, custom fabrication projects tailored to meet our clients’ unique needs. One recent project was for our customer Greg and Laurice, a couple looking to travel and fish around Australia with a fully customized Unimog truck, 4.6m Quintrex Renegade boat, and large caravan.
This ambitious, three-year project showcases BTA Industries’ commitment to excellence, creative problem-solving, and attention to detail.
Unimog Modifications
The project began with Greg’s vision of transforming the iconic Unimog into the ultimate all-terrain vehicle, capable of towing a large caravan and hauling a sizable boat, yet maintaining comfort and functionality for their long journey. Most travelers would opt for a smaller roof-topper tinnie, but Greg wanted something more substantial—a 4.6m Quintrex Renegade.
To accommodate this larger boat, our team custom-fabricated sideboards for the Unimog tray that also function as ramps, allowing the boat to be winched up securely onto the tray. We reinforced the tray by modifying the original headboard and front floor to support a custom winch bracket, ensuring the boat could be safely secured during transport.
Further modifications included upgrading the boat trailer by making the drawbar removable and adding a wheel and hitch setup, simplifying the process of loading the boat onto the Unimog’s tray. Additional features such as custom front and rear winch bars were also installed to assist with recoveries in tough terrain. To manage the heavy load of the spare wheel, we fitted a spare wheel bracket on the tray along with a job crane, making it easy to lift the wheel—a task otherwise too demanding for two people.
We also enhanced the utility of the Unimog by installing external pipework around the cab to house solar panels and additional lighting on the roof. To expand the vehicle’s storage capacity, we added two toolboxes on one side of the tray and a generator box on the other. A large storage box on the passenger side was added to house two 80L Engel fridges, while a custom battery box at the rear of the tray, holding two lithium batteries, provides power for the fridges and other electronics. Finally, we installed a 120-liter water tank along with custom infill panels to cleanly integrate the water outlets and fill the gaps between the storage boxes and mudguards.
Boat Modifications
The Quintrex Renegade also underwent significant upgrades. Originally a tiller-steered model, it was converted into a side-console configuration for more control and ease of use. The rear of the boat was filled in with an ocean splash well, and the transom was reinforced to support a powerful 90HP 4-stroke outboard motor. To further enhance the boat’s utility, rocket launcher rod holders were added above the motor, and the front casting deck was recessed to accommodate a custom fiberglass esky, with the lid integrated into the deck. Grab rails were also added for increased safety and ease of movement.
Caravan Enhancements
To make life on the road more comfortable, BTA Industries customized the caravan with a set of aluminum stairs and handrails, providing safer and easier access. The stairs were designed to be lightweight yet durable, ensuring they could withstand the wear and tear of continuous use.
Looking Ahead
Greg and Laurice’s project continues to evolve, and there’s no doubt more modifications are in store after their half-year trip around Australia. BTA Industries looks forward to future upgrades to the Unimog, boat, and possibly the caravan, ensuring that Greg and Laurice can continue their adventures with ease and confidence.
This project highlights BTA Industries’ dedication to quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and a customer-focused approach, making sure every modification serves the client’s lifestyle needs. Whether it’s fabricating complex systems or enhancing comfort and safety, BTA Industries is proud to be part of their journey.