When a working ute has been built around a specific job, the setup matters just as much as the vehicle itself. For Richard Logan from Animal Burials, the custom-built flat deck and crane attachment on his old ute were essential parts of his daily operation.
Rather than starting from scratch, the job was about making use of what was already there: removing the existing custom deck and crane setup, refurbishing what needed attention, and fitting it all to the new ute so it was ready to get back to work.
At The Workshop 1924, this is the kind of practical, hands-on engineering work we’re built for. Located in Pukekohe, we support trade and utility-based transport with heavy diesel, engineering, fabrication, and specialist solutions that keep vehicles on the road and businesses moving.
Stripping down the old ute
The first stage was removing the custom-built deck and crane attachment from Richard’s old ute. Once stripped, we fitted a basic flat deck to the old vehicle and carried out a full valet so it could be prepared for sale.
This gave the old ute a clean, usable setup while allowing the deck and crane system to be saved, repaired, and transferred across to the replacement vehicle.
It was a practical outcome all round: the old ute was made easier to sell, and the working gear that mattered most was kept in service.
Refurbishing the custom ute deck
With the deck removed, our engineering team got stuck into the refurbishment. The structure was inspected, repaired where needed, and brought back up to a strong working standard.
We also fitted new Plytech decking timber, giving the deck a fresh, durable surface ready for regular use. This stage was about restoring the deck properly, not overcomplicating it.
Crane service and refurbishment
The crane also received attention before being mounted to the new ute. We carried out a full service and basic refurbishment to make sure it was operating as it should.
For work vehicles, gear like this needs to be dependable. A crane attachment has to be mounted securely and powered correctly, ready to perform when needed.
Our engineers checked over the crane, completed the required servicing, and prepared it for installation onto the new vehicle.
Modifying the deck mounts for the new ute
No two ute setups are exactly the same, especially when custom-built decks and attachments are involved.
To get the deck sitting correctly on the new ute, we modified the deck mounts to suit the replacement vehicle. Once the fitment was right, the refurbished deck was installed and secured. From there, the crane was mounted and wired up to suit the new ute.
The result was a clean, functional setup that carried over the proven features of Richard’s old ute while giving him the benefit of a newer vehicle underneath.
Why choose The Workshop 1924?
This job is a good example of what custom refurbishment can achieve. Instead of replacing the whole setup, Richard was able to retain the deck and crane system that already worked for his business. Our role was to strip, repair, refurbish, modify, mount, wire, and finish the job properly.
For Animal Burials, that means a new ute with a familiar, reliable working setup. For us, it’s another example of keeping trade and utility vehicles moving with practical engineering and fabrication solutions.
That’s what The Workshop 1924 is here for: a one-stop shop for heavy diesel and engineering solutions, keeping the wheels of industry turning in Pukekohe since 1924.
Need a Custom Ute Deck or Tray Refurbishment?
If your ute, truck, trailer, or work vehicle needs repairs, refurbishment, custom fabrication, or specialist modifications, talk to the team at The Workshop 1924.
We can help with practical, industry-focused solutions that are built to work. Contact us here or call us on 09 238 0138 to discuss your next job.
Richard Logan of Animal Burials, provides professional, humane animal burial and removal services across North Waikato, specialising in horses, cattle, and pets with compassionate care. Get in touch with him on 0274 976 058 for your animal burial.
