A Canopy With Cool Curves

If you’re struggling to find a proper canopy for a Mitsubishi Triton’s unique load bin, you should do what Charl Carstensen did and build one yourself.

Charl Carstensen from Durbanville almost single-handedly transformed his Mitsubishi Triton into a very neat tour and play vehicle. He is, after all, a mechanical engineer and he wasn’t put off by the Triton’s angles and curves. He even created computer models of his canopy so he was sure it would fit perfectly.

“It’s our weekend play and tour vehicle,” Charl says. It’s reassuring to know that he can now easily drive on rough terrain without worrying about damaging his bakkie. “Now it’s possible to get to camp terrains that are off the beaten track,” he says. “And I can also camp in proper style!”

It’s especially his neat canopy on the Triton’s unique load bin that draws attention. We found out from Charl how he did it.

Have you owned modified 4x4s before?

In 2012 I bought a new Suzuki Jimny and built rock sliders, bash plates and load system myself. I lifted the suspension and body by 50 mm and put on a Burnco bumper and bigger tyres. But ultimately the Jimny was a bit lightweight and it was also very cramped inside, especially with two dogs who always travel with.

I then bought a 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero SWB GLS 3.8 V6. That’s where my love for Mitsubishi started. I also lifted its suspension with 50 mm, and put on rock sliders, an ARB bull bar, a 63 mm Powerflow exhaust, and 32-inch Maxxis Bighorn tyres. I frequently toured with both vehicles.

Why did you choose the Triton instead of another model?