Slow progress and something new

My brother-in-law kindly assisted me move the carcass of the new cabinet into the front room.  The next step was to adjust the feet and level the unit.  The kickboard has been made from scraps of Jarrah timber and has now received it’s second coat of varnish.  It will be one of the last pieces fitted as I may have to move the unit slightly when fitting the top. 

The top has been cut to size and a hole drilled for the pop-up power socket.  It’s drying in the workshop after receiving a first coat of varnish.  I’ve also measured for the glass doors and shelves. 

A second project.

No… that wasn’t my project!

I’ve received the bullbar I ordered for the Isuzu.

I’ve decided to save the $500 the dealer wanted to fit the bar by doing the installation myself.  Why fit a bullbar?  You never know what you are going to come across when driving in the outback.  Striking camels, kangaroos, dingos, etc can cause significant damage to the front end.  Particularly the radiator.  Obviously no radiator means the vehicle isn’t going to travel very far. 

One potential problem with steel bullbars is weight.  It places additional load on the suspension and increases fuel consumption.  Most steel bullbars available in Australia are manufactured in Thailand from Chinese made steel.  In order to obtain the required strength the manufacturer has to use thick steel as the Chinese steel is often ‘soft’.  This bullbar is made in Portugal from hi-tensile European made steel.  A stronger grade of steel means a lighter bar.  Therefore less strain on the suspension and better fuel economy.  Well that is the theory.