Installing a ute canopy can dramatically improve the ute’s convenience and utility. The storage space it offers is no doubt useful, and the weatherproofing can go a long way in Australia.
A common question that many customers ask is whether ute canopies are easy to remove, especially if they want the canopy to be replaced or upgraded. Here is what you need to know.
Are ute canopies easy to remove?
The process of removing a ute canopy can vary based on the type of canopy you had mounted to your ute. If you have a tub top canopy, it will be easier to remove than a full sized aluminium tray mounted canopy. A canopy that is heavier tends to be more difficult to remove and requires a system or more people to safely do so.
Of course, if you have any questions relating to ute products, you can contact our team for help.
Full Aluminium canopy removal
A full sized Aluminium Canopy will likely weigh anywhere from 150kg to 200kg - depending on the size of the unit, and the material it is made from.
A Removeable or Lift Off Canopy is usually designed for easy removal. They will have a reinforced floor, which means that you can leave all of your equipment inside the canopy, and typically a lifting system built in, which will accommodate purpose built lifting legs. These canopies can be either bolted through your tray, in which case these bolts will need to be removed prior to engaging the lifting legs. More commonly however, the canopy is held securely by a set of quick release tie down latches, that utilize the lifting leg holes and pull the canopy tightly down to your tray sides. The entire system is designed to be operated by a single user, and will usually allow the unit to be removed inside 10 minutes. Once the canopy has been lifted off with the lifting legs, you simply drive the vehicle out from underneath the canopy.
A Permanent Fit Canopy will always be bolted through your tray. It will also not have a reinforced floor so will require being empty prior to removal. Once all of the bolts are removed you will definitely need assistance, most likely from up to 4 or 5 people, to help lift the canopy off the vehicle, and position it in a storage location.
While it is always possible to remove a permanent fit unit, especially for repurposing or refitting to a different vehicle, it is recommended that if this is a regular occurrence for you, it is always better to purchase a lift off model.
It is also worth remembering that it is never a good idea to assume that it is safe to lift a canopy off a vehicle using fitted roof racks. Unless specifically engineered for this purpose, this is not a safe practice. Canopies should always be lifted from the base of the unit.
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Magnum MFG has your back for all your ute needs. We’re a Brisbane based supplier of high quality ute trays, canopies, tool boxes, and more! Check out our ute products with exceptional value and performance.
