Utes have been the most used vehicles by tradesmen and that is no coincidence. The ute has been the symbol of hard work and reliability for a long time now. But what it's also been known for is its versatile design which allows you to add certain types of accessories to it. This involves the use of a service body or what people also call a canopy.
The two terms may be used to name the same item but the use of a service body is more like a custom-made canopy. While canopies do look the same as service bodies they're not as modular and therefore not as versatile as service bodies. But because of this, there are many options a service body offers you so that you can find the right one for your profession or relaxing activity.
Benefits of a Service Body
Theft
One of the most important if not the most important benefit of installing a service body on your ute is theft prevention. With a service body, you won't have to worry about someone nicking your stuff. A well-built ute service body will give you peace of mind when going for a quick lunch break with all your tools parked away.
Fuel Efficiency
You might not expect something like this from a ute service tray but if you were to add it to your vehicle it would help with its fuel consumption. A service body will help you reduce drag since they don't stick out as much. This way they improve the aerodynamics of your ute which helps it use less fuel than usual.
Storage
Probably the most important part of a service body, its added storage space, is what can help you organise your tools and equipment better. With a ute service canopy or body, you also free up much-needed space up front. Not only can you bring more tools with you but you can also bring more people.
Protection
Another important factor of service bodies is the level of protection they provide for your gear and tools. No rain, sun or debris will damage your assortment of tools as long as they're neatly stashed in a ute service tray.
Options
As you already know, because of their modular nature, ute service canopies or bodies offer a plethora of styling and also functional options. You can get one that fits exactly your wants and needs without sacrificing anything.
Types of Service Bodies
Base Rail
A base rail service body is made so that you can fit it on the base perimeter of the shell of your ute's tray. Because of this, base rail service bodies go well with most trays as their bonded assembly is added just by bolting it to each corner. This also makes it easy to remove base rail bodies. Their waterproof properties are provided by a seal around it that's made possible with adhesive foam tape and silicone.
Permanent Fit
As its name suggests, a permanent fit service body is made so that it's installed onto an existing tray with the means of outlasting it. This is because permanent-fit bodies are bolted, glued and also screwed onto the tray. You can't remove a permanent fit service body after the curing process has passed.
False Floor
With a false floor service body, you essentially get a base rail extrusion that is attached to a platform. This type of ute service body is bolted into place or connected to the tray with over-centre latches. Because of this you can also get jacking legs for false floor service bodies.
Service Body Organisation Tips
Foundation
In order to make the most out of your service body's space you should make a strong foundation. I mean that in the literal sense of the word. Especially if you have heavy-duty power tools, you'll want them to be on the bottom. This way you'll make for a lower centre of gravity at the back and for an easier way to get the tools out.
Lighting
If you happen to work night shifts a lot, lighting will be of utmost importance in your ute service canopy. But even if you don't do night shifts, having even a bit of light in your service body will go a long way. With enough light, you'll be able to find anything you need more easily no matter where you are.
Racks
Adding overhead racks means you will almost double your service body's storage space. You can put lighter tools and supplies on the racks and also tools that you don't use as much. This way you will make it easier to get to your more commonly used tools.
Prioritise
To maximise your storage space make sure to prioritise your tools and equipment. For example, those tools that you use more often should be closer to the opening of the body. Keeping items placed in order of importance will make you more productive and effective too.
