Tradie Tips Q&A: Colin Aldred - Engineer

Colin Aldred's Helensburgh-based company, Aldred Engineering, tackles a huge range of jobs including CNC ( Computer numeric control) machining and cutting, custom fabrication, as well as fully engineered and customised staircases, balustrades and signage, and much more.

The company is also well known for its expert engineering work on structures at Symbio Wildlife Park and other major developments in NSW.

Crafty: Why did you buy your Ford Ranger?

Colin: 1. To look more professional when quoting and doing site work. 

2. As an old man it helps with my body, comfort. (Crafty says: "Ha! He's bloody younger than me!")

Crafty: What's a typical work day for your ute?

Colin: Driving one hour to a site with five people in the ute, doing a 10-hour work day and then driving an hour home.

As the tray is not really able to carry the frames or gear around we use, I tow a car trailer around a lot.

Crafty: Do you use your Ranger outside work?

Colin: Not really. I would love to if I had the time.

Crafty: Any mods?

Colin: A heavy-duty tow bar, side steps, an ARB Canopy, a lift kit (2-inch at the front, and 3-inch at the rear), as well as bigger rims and tyres: Toyo Open Country All Terrains (LT285/70R17).

Crafty: Any problems?

Colin: Not really. If I was going to have to pick something: after I’ve finished towing, the gearbox kind of struggles to adjust back to normal changes.

I’m lucky to have a great mechanic (Brook Cheffirs of Switched On Mechanical), who resets the computer for me.

Crafty: Anything else you'd like to do to it?

Colin: No.

Crafty: Would you buy another Ranger next time?

Colin: Yes.

Call Aldred Engineering on 0416 090 676 or visit his website for more details.