Let's talk about a truly unique and badass creation, the Da Hulk, a one-of-a-kind 4x4 Holden VY ute that's a real head-turner. This beast is a testament to the creativity and skill of its owner, Gary Gibbons, who has taken the concept of a 4WD to a whole new level.
The story of Da Hulk begins with Gary's vision to transform a brand-new VY SS ute into a coil-sprung 4WD masterpiece. He had previously built a VG ute with a similar setup, and it seems he just couldn't resist the challenge of creating something even more impressive.
The Conversion Process
The conversion process was no small feat. Gary and his mate Brad spent an estimated five months, spread over nearly two years, to make this dream a reality. The Holden's underbody required some modifications, but the real work went into the Nissan Patrol chassis. All the factory body mounts were removed and new ones fabricated to align with the Commodore's subframe. It's a true testament to their craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Aesthetic and Functional Modifications
What makes Da Hulk stand out visually is the custom work done by Fabtech, now sadly no longer in business. The front mudguards and rear wheel arches were manufactured to give the ute a unique look. Gary even fabricated new 'tubs' from steel, leaving very little of the original wheelhouses. The front guards are now one-piece fiberglass replacements, accommodating the massive 15x10-inch American Racing wheels wrapped in 39.5-inch Super Swamper tires. The nose, tail, and sills were also custom-made, with everything color-coded to match the SS's Hothouse by Buddah.
Under the Hood
Under the hood, Da Hulk packs a punch with its 5.7-liter Gen III V8 engine. To mate it to the Nissan's 4WD transmission, a Mark's adapter plate was used, showcasing the versatility of this setup. Gary even made the engine and transmission mounts himself, moving the gearbox and transfer case to provide the necessary clearance. The conversion retains most of the standard Holden radiator and engine bay hardware, giving it a subtle yet powerful look.
The Supercharger
One of the most intriguing features is the Harrop supercharger with an intercooler. This positive-displacement blower is a sight to behold, mounted in a way that retains the throttle body at the front of the engine. It's a common modification for quick street cars, but Gary has taken it off-road, adding a unique twist to the build.
The Driving Experience
Stepping into Da Hulk is an experience in itself. The interior is a comfortable blend of green and black plaid trim, reminiscent of a late-model SS. But once you start driving, the sensations change dramatically. The supercharger's torque gives the ute an incredible agility, and the sound of the four huge muddies resonating in the cabin is an experience like no other. Corners are a hoot, with the long-travel coil spring suspension allowing the body to lean over, giving you the feeling of being atop a ship's mast.
Off-Road Capabilities
While Da Hulk is currently set up for shows like Summernats, with a lower center of gravity and some modifications to the rolling stock, it could become a formidable off-road machine. Gary wasn't afraid to get his rig a little dusty for our photo shoot, showcasing its capabilities.
A Unique Australian Creation
In a country known for its love of 4WDs and unique automotive creations, Da Hulk stands out. It's a continuation of a proud tradition, with a history of 4WD conversions based on Holden vehicles. From the Overlander Kingswoods of the 1970s to the more recent Holden Adventra wagons, Australia has a rich history of creating its own off-road beasts.
Gary's Hulk is a true testament to this spirit of innovation and a reminder that sometimes, it's the unique and unconventional builds that capture our imagination the most.
So, would you dare to take Da Hulk off-road, or is it a show-stopper that deserves the spotlight at events like Summernats? Personally, I think it's a bit of both, and that's what makes it so fascinating.
