Installation Nissan Navara with an open body requires a special approach to protecting the cargo from bad weather and theft. Many owners turn to installing a kung truck, which turns a pickup truck into a universal vehicle for any task. However, the plastic or aluminum box itself cannot simply stand on board - it requires a reliable fixation system.
Correct kung mount determines not only the safety of transportation, but also the integrity of the pickup truck itself. An incorrectly distributed load can deform the sills or cause cracks in the body when driving off-road. That is why the choice of installation method and high-quality fittings become priorities when preparing a car for operation.
Main Types of Mounting Systems for Pickup Trucks
In a modern car service center you can find several fundamentally different approaches to fixing the superstructure on a pickup truck platform. Each method has its own physical characteristics and requirements for frame design Nissan Navara. The choice depends on whether you plan to rent the kung for the winter or leave it permanently.
The most common option is clamp fastenings, which are mounted directly into standard holes or use clamps on the sides. They allow you to quickly dismantle the superstructure without using complex tools. However, with intensive use on rough terrain, such systems may require periodic tightening of the bolts.
Popular fixation schemes:
- 🔧 Bolt fastenings - a reliable option that uses standard body holes for rigid fixation.
- 🔩 Clamping systems — convenient for frequent dismantling, but require control of the tightening torque.
- 🛠️ Frame with welded elements — maximum rigidity, but requires professional installation and welding.
Selecting suitable fittings and materials
When selecting components for Nissan Navara (especially models D22 and D40), it is necessary to take into account the material from which the kung itself and the fastening elements are made. Plastic products are lighter, but more susceptible to vibration loads, while aluminum products require more rigid fixation. Stainless steel or galvanized aluminum for bolts and brackets is a must for durability.
Using conventional steel bolts without an anti-corrosion coating will result in rapid corrosion and jamming of the fastening mechanism. In the Russian climate, this can become fatal, turning a simple replacement of a kung into a complex operation of drilling out rusted elements. It is important to choose products with high-quality coating or made of non-ferrous metals.
- Plastic
- Aluminum
- Fiberglass
- Haven't bought it yet
Preparation of the body and installation site
Before you begin installation, you should carefully inspect the pickup bed for any defects, rust, or deformation. Standard mounting points on board Nissan Navara must be clean and even. Any irregularities can lead to an uneven fit of the kung and, as a result, to leaks or vibrations.
Pay special attention to the condition of the thresholds and sides. If you plan to use clamps, make sure the metal is not thin or cracked. In some cases, it is necessary to install reinforcing rubber or plastic linings between the bracket and the metal of the body to distribute the load.
⚠️ Attention: Never use metal screws for fixation if they are not intended for this purpose. They can break the tightness of the body and cause corrosion hidden from view.
Checklist for preparation for installation:
☑️ Body preparation
Step-by-step instructions for installing the kung
The installation process begins with preliminary fitting of the kung on board a pickup truck without tightening the fasteners. This allows you to visually evaluate gaps and symmetry. Make sure kung mount does not block access to locks or side mechanisms, and does not interfere with the operation of the rear door.
Next comes the stage of installing the brackets. If you are using stock holes, make sure the bolts go through freely and do not interfere with any internal body components. For clamping systems, it is important to set the correct angle of inclination so that the load is distributed evenly along the entire length of the kung.
Порядок действий: 1. Установите кронштейны. 2. Осторожно опустите кунг. 3. Затяните болты от центра к краям.Important nuances of tightening:
- 📐 Cross pattern — tighten the bolts diagonally to avoid distortion of the structure.
- 🔑 Torque wrench - use it to maintain the recommended tightening torque (usually 15-20 Nm).
- 🧪 Post-trip control — after the first 100 km, be sure to check the tightness of all elements.
What to do if the kung does not become straight?
If the kung is installed skewed, check the geometry of the side. It may be necessary to use shims or shims. Never try to “pull” the plastic by force, as this will cause it to crack.
Typical installation errors and their consequences
One of the most common mistakes is over-tightening the mounting bolts. The plastic from which kungs are often made does not have high elasticity and can crack under excess pressure. This leads to the need to replace the entire product or complex repair of cracks.
Another common problem is ignoring the need to use rubber gaskets. The metal of the bracket is in direct contact with the metal of the body or the plastic of the kung, creating an “abrasive” effect during vibration. Over time, this wears away the coating and leads to the appearance of through holes.
⚠️ Warning: Using bolt sealant without first cleaning the threads may make the fastener impossible to remove in the future. Apply the composition only to a clean surface.
Apply some lubricant or graphite paste to the bolt threads before final tightening. This will facilitate future dismantling and protect against corrosion.
Comparison table of fastening methods
For a visual comparison of different approaches to fixing the superstructure on a pickup truck Nissan Navara Here is a summary table of characteristics. This will help you choose the best option depending on your goals and operating conditions.
| Mounting type | Difficulty of installation | Reliability | Possibility of dismantling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clamping brackets | Low | Average | High |
| Bolted (standard) | Average | High | Average |
| Welded frame | High | Maximum | Low |
| Magnetic (for temporary) | Minimum | Low | Maximum |
A properly selected fastener should provide rigid fixation without creating excessive pressure points on the plastic or metal of the body.
Maintenance and care of the fastening system
Even the best quality fastening system requires regular maintenance. In harsh winter conditions or frequent travel through mud, bolts and brackets can become corroded. It is recommended to visually inspect and clean the elements at least once a season.
Use special lubricants for threaded connections to avoid sticking. If you notice traces of rust on the brackets, immediately treat them with a rust converter and coat them with an anti-corrosion compound. This will extend the life of both the mount itself and the body of your Nissan Navara.
How often should you check the tightness? In the first month after installation, it is recommended to check every 500 km. In the future - with every vehicle maintenance or after off-road trips.-->
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to install a kung on a Nissan Navara without drilling the body?
Yes, most modern kung models are equipped with clamping systems that attach to the side of the pickup truck without the need for drilling. However, for maximum reliability, many owners still use standard holes.
Do I need to use sealant when installing fasteners?
The use of sealant depends on the type of fastening. If the fastener goes through the body, sealant is required to prevent leakage. With the clamping method, no sealant is needed, but it is recommended to use rubber gaskets.
What is the tightening torque of the bolts for fastening the kung?
The recommended tightening torque is usually between 15 and 25 Nm, depending on the diameter of the bolt and the material of the bolt. Always check the kung car manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the plastic.
Is it possible to drive with an open kung at high speed?
No, open hatches or an uncovered truck create significant aerodynamic drag and noise. It may also result in structural damage or loss of cargo.