here’s a long-standing rivalry between those who love aluminum ute trays and steel. Both types have their pros and cons depending on the way in which the tray is employed.
Some tradies prefer an item that is in line with the colour of their cab for practical reasons, like fleets that require uniform signage and colours or because they prefer a more cohesive look for their vehicle for work.
Durability
TUFF steel ute trays offer high-quality strength and endurance. They are fully welded, rather than bolted as competitors’ products. They are made to withstand the toughest of tasks and will not fail you in the worst of situations.
Steel is also known for its resistance to rust. This is especially important for those working in coastal areas, or in harsh conditions. Powder coating can reduce rusting but it is difficult to avoid scratches and chips when the tray is used continuously for hard work.
Steel is a great option if you use heavy equipment or tools. A steel tray is great for carrying landscaping materials, like rocks that fall with great force from the bucket of a front-end loader.
Strength
Steel Trays Queensland are four times stronger and three times stiffer than aluminum counterparts. This makes them better suited to heavy loads and conditions of trade/work.
On the flip side mild-steel is prone to rusting if exposed outdoors and in salt water. The best method of preventing this is hot-dip galvanising, however powder coating and a quality paint job are also feasible alternatives. The chips and scratches that result from the process of using abrasive materials are always a possibility corrosion starter in steel.
The additional weight of a steel tray, though, can be beneficial in some situations, particularly on cab-chassis vehicles that are often driven unladen or with light loads. A heavy tray can provide the sprung weight needed to compress the rear leaf spring suspensions and let the vehicle provide a smooth ride even on empty.
Easy Maintenance
The type of tray that is ideal for you will ultimately depend on how you utilize your vehicle. Aluminum is a great choice for lighter loads and touring, while steel is able to handle heavier loads and harsh conditions.
A steel tray can add weight to your vehicle, and reduce its GVM rating. This results in a decrease in payload. Additionally it requires more elbow grease to keep rust at bay than aluminium.
The team at Silverback creates high-quality tray backs for utes, tool boxes and dog cages for trade, commercial and private use. They are fully galvanised and welded to ensure the highest durability. Locally owned and operated you can rely on the staff at Silverback to deliver on high-quality products. Call them to discuss your needs. Then, go to their workshop to get your new trays and accessories installed.
Style
The TUFF ute tray is designed and manufactured in Australia and provide great value. They are available in a variety of packages with different features and options available. All packages include Powder Coating as a standard.
Steel trays are king in terms of durability, and are less likely to scratch than aluminum units. However they’re also heavier and the extra weight can make a difference to the fuel economy when you’re racking up some serious kays.
A steel tray also requires more care to keep it looking good. It should be regularly treated with rust-busting chemical to prevent it from taking over. Some owners of utes want their tray to match the colour of their cab or cab, whether for commercial reasons (like fleets with uniform colors and signage) or simply because they prefer an integrated appearance for their vehicle.
Value
The final decision on a Gold Coast ute trays comes down to the specific requirements of your needs. If rigidity and strength are the key requirements then steel is a great choice. But if you’re looking for a corrosion-resistant tray and don’t want to spend too much money on it, aluminium could be the ideal choice for you.
Another thing to consider is the weight. As a general rule, mild steel trays are heavier than those made of aluminium. If you install an iron tray onto a cab-chassis vehicle, the additional weight will have a negative impact on its GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) rating, and decrease its payload capacity. A tray made of aluminum will weigh less to the kerb mass of your vehicle. It may save you fuel and mechanical wear.
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