Mazda BT-50 Off-Road Tourer Build

With plans to take this Mazda through its paces with the 2021 Cruisemaster R.A.T run, the Towing Performance Centre had to turn this stock Mazda BT-50 into an extremely capable off-road tourer. In the sections below we will go through everything the team has changed from GVM to Interior, along with our thoughts on it’s performance handling Cape York.

Mazda BT-50 Off-Road Barwork

Front and centre of this BT-50 is an Offroad Animal Predator Bar improving the approach angle and acting as a mounting point for the GME UHF Antenna, 12,000LB Carbon Winch and houses dual STEDI Light Bars. We have previously had bars from TJM and Uneek 4X4 fitted to this vehicle but have landed on the Offroad Animal product as the ideal combination of style and functionality for this build.

The rear of the Mazda has seen the fitment of a XBar Rear Bar, helping improve clearance and departure angles, whilst providing the benefits of rated recovery points.

A new set of TJM Side Steps help not only with accessibility but offer a greater level of protection from mud, stones and whatever else the outback roads have to through at it.

BT-50 Roof Rack & Accessories

Up on top is a Titan Tray from ROLA which helps increase the storage capacity by freeing up space inside of the cab and acts as a platform for additional accessories.

BT-50 Tray Modifications

To assist in mounting the gear required for the rigorous R.A.T Run testing, a Chameleon Base Tray has been installed in place of the standard cab chassis. This short tray assisted in minimizing weight and includes a unique mounting system in the bed of the tray for superior functionality. In addition the incorporated rear water tanks allows for additional water capacity when touring.

Towing Upgrades For Mazda BT-50

To improve the payload, an Old Man Emu GVM upgrade has been fitted bringing the BT-50's GVM up to 3500KG and features BP-51 Remote Reservoir shock absorbers. Supporting this is a set of Airbag Man Coil Helper Bags to increase comfort and control on and off the road.

Towing Mirrors for Mazda BT-50

For improved vision & legal line of sight when towing, compact telescopic towing mirrors from Clearview Accessories have replaced the OEM mirrors.

BT-50 Off-Road Tyres

As part of the GVM increase, the original tyres have been upgraded to a set of rated Toyo Tyres Open Country A/T's fitted to rated Trophy Wheels from ROH Wheels.

Mazda BT-50 Interior Changes

Inside of this tourer hasn't been left out with the following upgrades made:

• Supafit black denim seat covers and Maxliner floor mats to protect both seats and carpets respectively.

• A GME UHF XRS-330C for remote communications

• ARB twin compressor

• REDARC TowPro Elite V3 350W Inverter

• ScanGauge II - Performance monitoring system

• A Direction Plus Throttle Controller on the dash for easy access to adjusting throttle response

Engine Bay Modifications for Mazda BT-50

Under the bonnet a Direction Plus Preline Pre-Filter is in place to protect against water and particle contamination to cope with extreme weather or poor fuel quality. A Provent catch can has also been fitted protecting the motor against oil & soot contamination.

Another change is the addition of a MEGA-Life Lithium starter battery for weight reduction and the benefit of the reserve cell and IBMS (Integrated Battery Management System) for one touch emergency starting.

A TJM Airtec Snorkel has also been fitted to increase air flow & for any potential water crossings.

Other Mazda BT-50 Tourer Modifications

Other modifications made by the Towing Performance Centre getting this Ute R.A.T Run ready includes an Armour Doctor Vehicle Wrap & Protective Clear Coat to preserve the paint from the harsh off-road tracks. This wrap has focused on protecting areas most likely to be affected by rocks and dust.

How did it perform?

After the Towing Performance Centre was finished modifying this BT-50, it was put through its paces with the 2021 Remote Area Testing run up to Cape York. Andrew has done an in-depth review of the modifications made and how they performed off road in some bonus content from the series.

To see more of the custom off-road builds by the towing performance make sure to follow us on Facebook and Subscribe to the Cruisemaster YouTube channel to see them put to the ultimate test.

If you are looking to build your own off road tourer make sure to have a chat with one of our Towing Performance Centre experts or visit the Towing Performance Centre workshop located at 352 Bilsen Road, Geebung, QLD, 4034.

PRODUCTS FEATURED