What to Look for When Buying a Second-Hand Ute Tray
What to Look for When Buying a Second-Hand Ute Tray
Blog Article
Upgrading your 4WD setup doesn’t always mean buying everything brand new. Many drivers in Perth are turning to second-hand ute trays as a cost-effective option to enhance their vehicles. While a pre-owned tray can save you money upfront, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. At Perth 4WD, we help customers make informed decisions, whether they're purchasing new or used equipment. If you're considering a second-hand ute tray, here's what to look for to make sure your investment is solid, safe, and suitable for your needs.
Why Choose a Second-Hand Tray
There’s no doubt that a high-quality ute tray adds function and value to your 4WD. Second-hand trays offer a budget-friendly entry point, especially for tradies, adventurers, or anyone needing a quick upgrade. Whether you’re replacing a damaged tray, building a touring setup, or adding storage space, second-hand options are readily available across WA. With the right know-how, a used tray can deliver great performance without breaking the bank.
Start by Checking the Material
The first thing you want to know about a second-hand tray is what it’s made from. The two most common materials are aluminium and steel. If you’re after durability with minimal weight, aluminium trays Perth locals prefer are usually the best choice. Aluminium is naturally rust-resistant and lighter than steel, which improves fuel efficiency and handling—especially important for long-distance or off-road use.
Steel trays offer excellent toughness but can rust over time if not properly coated or maintained. When inspecting a steel tray, check for any signs of corrosion, especially around welds, mounting points, and under tray areas that are exposed to road debris and water.
Measure for Compatibility
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is purchasing a second-hand tray that doesn’t fit their vehicle properly. Ute trays aren’t universally sized, and even a few centimetres off can cause installation headaches. Always measure your chassis width, cab length, and wheelbase before shopping. At Perth 4WD, we can assist with accurate measurements and modifications to ensure a perfect fit.
Also keep in mind the mounting system—some trays are built to fit certain makes or models, while others require custom brackets or re-drilling. It’s worth having a professional team like ours inspect the fit before finalising your purchase.
Inspect the Frame and Welds
A good second-hand tray should still have a strong, solid frame. Begin your inspection by checking underneath—look for cracks in welds, bent sections, or poorly done repairs. Welds should be even and clean, without rust flakes or bubbling paint, which can be signs of hidden corrosion.
If the tray has been overloaded or poorly mounted in the past, it may show signs of stress or twisting. This could affect the overall strength of the tray and how well it mounts to your ute. At Perth 4WD, we provide professional inspections and reinforcement services if needed.
Consider Load Ratings and Legal Compliance
Just because a tray fits your vehicle doesn’t mean it’s legal or safe to use. All ute trays must comply with vehicle regulations in Western Australia, including load ratings and size restrictions. You’ll want to check the tray’s weight and payload capacity to ensure it doesn’t push your ute over its Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). Fitting an oversized tray can also lead to compliance issues and impact your insurance.
We recommend speaking to our team at Perth 4WD for guidance. We help customers match second-hand trays to their vehicle’s specs while keeping everything compliant and road-safe.
Surface Condition and Paint Quality
While minor scratches and scuffs are expected on any second-hand item, excessive surface damage or peeling paint could be a red flag. Check for areas where the protective coating has worn off or where rust might be starting. On aluminium trays, watch for oxidation or pitting.
If the tray is in good structural condition but has cosmetic flaws, Perth 4WD offers respraying and refurbishing services. A clean, freshly painted tray not only looks better but also provides extra protection from future damage.
Compatibility With Accessories
Many buyers are planning to add toolboxes, tie-down points, or a ute canopy Perth setup. Make sure the tray you're considering supports these add-ons. Check for pre-installed mounting points, electrical access for lighting or power, and whether the tray allows for under tray toolboxes or slide-out storage.
If you're planning to turn your tray into a full touring rig, our team can help you integrate it with 4WD accessories like fridge slides, rooftop tents, dual battery systems, and more.
Don’t Forget the Tail Lights and Wiring
Used trays sometimes come with damaged or incompatible tail light setups. Before purchasing, test the indicators, brake lights, and reverse lights. If the wiring looks old, frayed, or corroded, it may need a full rewire before road use.
Perth 4WD offers complete lighting upgrades and rewiring services, ensuring your second-hand tray meets road standards and integrates with your vehicle’s electronics.
Professional Fitting and Modifications
Once you’ve found the right second-hand ute tray, getting it installed correctly is essential. A poorly fitted tray can cause drivability issues and even lead to structural damage. Perth 4WD provides professional fitting services for all trays—new or used—including bracket fabrication, chassis alignment, and roadworthiness checks.
We can also modify your tray during installation, adding custom features like extra tie-down points, drawer systems, or even matching ute canopy Perth options for a fully integrated setup.
The Perth 4WD Difference
What sets Perth 4WD apart is our hands-on experience and commitment to quality. We’ve helped hundreds of customers upgrade their vehicles with both brand-new and second-hand equipment. We don’t just sell products—we make sure everything works together for your lifestyle, whether you’re hitting the beach, the bush, or the job site.
Our workshop offers inspection, fitting, modification, and aftercare services, giving you confidence that your second-hand ute tray will perform like new for years to come.
Conclusion
Buying a second-hand ute tray can be a smart and budget-friendly move, but it requires a careful eye and professional support. With the right checks and a quality installation, a used tray can deliver just as much value and function as a new one. At Perth 4WD, we’re here to help you every step of the way—from selecting the right tray to fitting it for maximum performance and safety. If you're looking to upgrade your 4WD setup without the high price tag, talk to us about second-hand trays that work as hard as you do.
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