Ute Conversions for Toyota LandCruiser & Nissan Patrol (Dual Cab & Single Cab)
At Raslarr Engineering, ute conversions are something we quietly do a lot of — even if we don’t always shout about it. In reality, we’re converting around a dozen wagons into utes every year, and each one is engineered, refined, and finished to the same high standard as our bar work and accessory packages.
Whether you’re chasing the ultimate touring setup, a high-country hunting rig, or a tough workhorse that still drives like a factory vehicle, a properly executed ute conversion on a Toyota LandCruiser or Nissan Patrol is hard to beat.
Below, we’ll walk you through what a Raslarr ute conversion actually involves — using a brand-new Nissan Patrol Y62 straight from the dealership as the example.
Watch the Ute Conversion Walkthrough
This blog is based directly on the walkthrough video below, filmed in our workshop while this vehicle was being completed.
It shows the details, finish quality, and proportions far better than photos ever could.
👉 Watch the full video here:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17QbHo36FB/
From Wagon to Ute — Done Properly
The vehicle featured in the video is a brand-new Y62 Patrol with just 40km on the clock, delivered straight from the dealer to Raslarr Engineering.
This is important — because it shows what these conversions look like when everything is fresh, clean, and purpose-built from day one.
Unlike some conversions on older vehicles, this setup highlights:
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Factory-fresh fit and finish
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No shortcuts
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No compromises in drivability or technology
Despite being brand new, the finished ute actually weighs less than the original wagon configuration, even with a full tank of fuel — sitting around the three-tonne mark.
Raslarr Aluminium & Steel Tray System
This conversion features one of our base Raslarr tray packages, which can be customised further depending on how the vehicle will be used.
Tray Construction
- Steel tray base for strength and durability
- Aluminium tray sides
- Aluminium guards
- Aluminium under-tray storage boxes
This hybrid approach gives you:
- Excellent load-carrying capability
- Tie-down points where you need them
- A tray that’s tough but still remarkably lightweight
Tray dimensions on this build:
- 2 metres wide
- 1500mm long
That’s a seriously usable tray, without extending the chassis or ruining proportions.
Huge Under-Tray Trundle Drawer
One of the standout features is the full-width under-tray trundle drawer.
Perfect for:
- Recovery gear
- Tools
- Camping equipment
- Touring accessories
- Tech and spares
It keeps weight low, gear secure, and the tray surface free for bulky loads.
Factory Tech — Fully Retained
One of the biggest concerns people have with ute conversions is losing factory features. With a Raslarr conversion, that doesn’t happen.
All factory systems are retained and fully functional, including:
- Parking sensors
- Cameras (relocated neatly under the tray)
- Vehicle electronics
- Safety systems
Everything works exactly as it should, just in a far more capable configuration.
Clean Interior Finish & Sound Deadening
Inside the cab, the conversion is finished just as carefully as the exterior.
- Neatly trimmed headboard
- Fully carpeted rear wall
- Timber backing boards used to:
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Clean up the finish
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Hide all wiring
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Provide additional sound deadening
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The result is a cabin that:
- Looks factory
- Feels solid
- Stays quiet on the road
No exposed wiring. No rough edges. No shortcuts.
Proportions That Look Factory — Not “Converted”
One of the biggest compliments we hear is:
“It doesn’t even look like a converted car.”
That’s intentional.
These conversions:
- Do not require a chassis extension
- Maintain excellent rear overhang
- Keep tow geometry tight and practical
In fact, the rear overhang on this setup is shorter than many wagons fitted with rear bars and wheel carriers, while still offering a massive tray.
The result is a ute that looks balanced, purposeful, and properly engineered — not awkward or stretched.
Suspension & GVM Options
This particular build runs:
- A basic lift
- No GVM upgrade
And that’s by design.
Because the vehicle is so light post-conversion, many owners don’t need a big GVM package. Overspringing a light vehicle can actually hurt ride quality and handling.
That said, we can engineer conversions with:
- Multiple GVM upgrade options
- Packages up to 4495kg, depending on use case
We’ll always recommend what suits how you actually use the vehicle, not what looks best on paper.
Cost & Value Compared to Other Utes
A new Y62 Patrol sits around the $100k mark, and once converted:
- You’re often on par with high-end dual cab utes
- Still cheaper than American trucks
- Retaining a far larger, more comfortable interior
- With superior off-road ability and touring comfort
For many customers, it’s the sweet spot between:
- Wagon comfort
- Ute practicality
- Proper off-road performance
Vehicles we convert:
Ideal Uses for a LandCruiser or Patrol Ute Conversion
These builds are incredibly versatile and suit a wide range of applications:
- Touring & remote travel
- High-country and alpine driving
- Hunting and outdoor recreation
- Trade and work vehicles
- Custom camping builds
If you want space, strength, comfort, and practicality — without the bulk of an American truck — this setup is hard to beat.
Built, Engineered & Finished In-House
Every Raslarr ute conversion is:
- Professionally engineered
- Fully compliant
- Built in-house
- Finished to the same standard as our bar work, trays, and accessories
We don’t rush them — and we don’t cut corners.
That’s why they look right, drive right, and last.
Thinking About a Ute Conversion?
If you’re considering converting your Toyota LandCruiser or Nissan Patrol into a ute — whether new or used — get in touch with Raslarr Engineering.
We’ll talk through:
- Your vehicle
- Your intended use
- Tray and storage options
- Suspension and GVM requirements
And make sure the end result is exactly what you need.
👉 Contact Raslarr Engineering today to discuss your ute conversion.