4 Dec
You need the perfect ute tray to outfit your 4WD for all the heavy tasks. Be it tackling rugged worksites. Loading camping gear. Or just cruising around Perth.
The wrong tray can cause different sorts of headaches. Poor performance, wear and tear, and even wasted cash. But the right tray? It’s your ticket to conquering worksites and off-road trails with ease.
So, aluminium or steel? Which one should you bolt onto your beast?
At Perth 4WD, we provide you with steel ute trays Perth tradies rely on. And accessories that make your ride stand out. Our galvanised steel trays are built tough right here in Perth. To handle every challenge of the Aussie climate.
Let’s solve all the confusion there is about steel or aluminium trays.
Aluminium vs Steel Ute Trays | Which One is Right for You?
A reliable tray transforms your vehicle into a proper workhorse. It provides a secure, spacious platform for carrying gear. And make your vehicle ready for whatever life throws at it. Beyond practicality. It also protects your vehicle’s body from damage and wear caused by loose loads. Saving you from costly repairs down the road.
Aluminium and steel both are well known for their durability and strength. And hence, being used as materials of ute trays. Both offer the unique benefits and also have some downsides to them. Some swear by the lightweight nature of aluminium. While others value the raw strength of steel.
Which one is right for you? Let’s find out by comparing the main qualities of both. And checking them against the measurements of the strong and versatile ute tray.
1. Strength
When it comes to raw strength, steel takes the crown. Comparisons have shown that steel offers four times more strength than aluminium. And three times more stiffness also.
The reason is more carbon amount in steel. Which increases the metal’s tensile strength & durability. These properties make Ute tray steel constructions perfect for heavy-duty work. And handling rough treatment without breaking a sweat.
Aluminium, while strong, is more prone to denting or bending under extreme stress. Therefore, steel trays are the standout choice for the rough use. And transporting items in challenging conditions due to their strength and hardness.
2. Weight
Weight is another main factor to consider while choosing a tray. Steel trays are known for their heavy-duty nature. But with that comes added weight. On average, steel trays weigh twice as much as aluminium ute trays.
E.g. Average weight for Hilux trays is:
- Aluminium Tray: 160kg
- Steel Tray: 308kg
This doubling of weight is essential to ensure the strength requirement. As it gives you better stability when carrying heavy loads.
But for those chasing better fuel economy or lighter loads. Aluminium trays are the way to go. Because they carry your payloads without demanding any extra fuel costs.
3. Durability
Durability is another key consideration, where steel shines more than aluminium.
Steel ute trays have unmatched longevity. Especially when made from galvanised steel, like the ones we sell at Perth 4WD. They’re built to endure tough weather conditions and heavy loads. Meaning they’ll last through years of mud, rain and storms.
Aluminium trays, though durable, might show wear and tear quicker. If subjected to heavy worksite abuse or rough environment.
If your daily business involves the muddy terrains of Australia. Or you carry the loads like Acrow prop, steel jackhammer drill bits and star pickets. Steel should be your obvious choice. But if you cover highways and easy roads only. Then, aluminium can also tackle to your needs.
4. Fuel Efficiency
Every kilogram count when it comes to fuel efficiency. And since steel trays weigh twice as much as aluminium. They increase your vehicle’s overall weight. Leading to higher fuel consumption. And costing extra dollars to your pocket.
If you’re clocking long miles and want to save fuel. Aluminium ute trays could help you in this regard. But remember to be gentle in adding weights.
The rate of fuel consumption also depends on your vehicle and its engine. So, keep all these factors in check. If you’re covering long miles on WA’s highways.
5. Load Capacity
If you’re a tradie hauling heavy equipment or a weekend warrior carrying off-road gear. load capacity is a dealbreaker. And your ute tray needs to handle whatever you throw at it.
Steel trays can handle higher weights without compromising structural integrity. Due to their higher tensile strength and compact nature. They can handle bigger, bulkier loads without bending or cracking.
Aluminium trays are great for lighter loads but may struggle under extreme conditions. Especially when loaded up with rough worksite gear. Think of it this way: steel is the bodybuilder, while aluminium is the sprinter.
6. Aesthetics
Okay, let’s talk looks. Some drivers prefer a sleek and modern finish of Aluminium trays. While others choose the jagged and tough look of steel trays.
So, suit yourself. If you want your 4WD to turn heads. Aluminium trays have a clean, polished look that screams modern. Otherwise, choose steel trays with their rugged vibe that says, “I mean business”.
At Perth 4WD, we offer custom paint jobs for steel trays. So, you can match them to your vehicle’s colour and style. So, you can get durability and style in one go. It’s all about personal preference here.
7. Safety
When you’re out on the road, safety is the only thing that matters.
Steel ute trays provide an extra layer of protection. And protects your cargo in case of accidents or off-road mishaps. Thanks to their sturdiness.
While aluminium trays, being lighter, do not offer the same level of safety. As it is not able to hold up well under severe impact.
Pay special attention to this point if you’re travelling with heavy cargo. Or dealing with tougher conditions as in Perth.
8. Corrosion Resistance
One of the standout qualities of aluminium is its natural corrosion resistance. It doesn’t rust. Making it ideal for coastal environments or vehicles exposed to saltwater. So, it is an obvious choice for beach-loving 4WDers.
While raw steel is more easily prone to corrosion and rust.
But don’t count Steel out just yet. The advanced varieties and galvanised steel trays. Like the ones at Perth 4WD are treated to resist rust. Extending their lifespan significantly even in salty conditions.
9. Cost
Budget is always a factor while choosing any necessity.
Aluminium trays tend to be pricier upfront due to their complex manufacturing processes.
Steel trays offer you more affordable initially. And have cheaper prices. But they can cost you more in long run with their maintenance needs if not galvanised.
At Perth 4WD, we balance quality and affordability. Offering galvanised steel ute trays Perth locals can rely on.
10. Customisation
Want to make it truly yours?
Steel trays are generally easier to customise due to their strength and malleability. Whether you need toolboxes, canopies, or under-tray drawers. Steel is a versatile option. Also, it offers a wide array of colours and design choices.
Aluminium can also be customised. Although customisation options of it are limited. But you can avail some variations depending on the design and application.
At Perth 4WD, we offer a range of accessories. To help you create the perfect setup for work or play.
Final Word | Steel or Aluminium Trays?
It’s clear that both aluminium vs steel ute trays have their pros and cons.
If you value lightweight design, corrosion resistance, and fuel efficiency. Aluminium could be your best pick. But if strength, durability, and heavy-duty performance are your priorities. Steel trays are the way to go.
Either way, your 4WD deserves the best.
At Perth 4WD, we recommend steel ute trays for their unmatched toughness and adaptability. Especially when tackling tough worksites or off-road terrains.
Searching for High-Quality Ute trays in Perth?
Choose Perth 4WD for Premium Ute Trays
Whether you need a brand-new steel ute tray or expert advice on the best tray for your 4WD, Perth 4WD has you covered.
Our trays are locally crafted in Perth from galvanised steel. Ensuring maximum durability that can last for years. We offer you both new and reconditioned varieties. Moreover, we provide you with a range of accessories to customise your setup.
So, let’s get your 4WD ready for whatever adventure or worksite challenge comes your way.
What are you waiting for?