Words: Kristie Bertucci
Photos: Dale Martin
Fab Fours owner Gregg Higgs is an avid rock crawler, which is perfect for testing out new products when you think of it. Thanks to his passion for rock crawling and the recent release of their Open Fender System, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to combine those two aspects to create the company’s first-ever Crawler Hauler sitting on 40” tires with only a leveling kit.
Desiring something that looks like a show queen, but performs like a tow beast, Greg went with a RAM HD, given he’s always been partial of them and a huge reason why Fab Fours always uses them for tow rigs. “They do a great job of combining pulling power, good looks and, in my opinion, an unmatched interior for style and comfort,” explains Kermit Baker, Fab Fours’ marketing manager.
The initial design process started out like many of their projects (and, boy, do they have lots!) – Greg sketches something on a napkin or piece of paper and then they turned to their friends at Southern Off-Road Specialist in Alpharetta, Georgia, to see if they could help turn the concept into reality. “Although the design did change slightly from the original drawing, they did not disappoint by creating this one-of-a-kind hauler!” Kermit admits.
To accessorize the Crawler Hauler, Fab Fours created at list of preferred partners and all generously supported the build. Since it was going to be used to haul around toys, the main highlight is the custom hauler bed by Southern Off-Road Specialist that holds the weight of a fully built 3,000-lb. buggy, four full spare tires, two 5-gallon racing fuel containers, a Pro Eagle 2-ton Big Wheel Off-road Jack and an all-weather outdoor sound system with Bluetooth. A custom Fab Fours rear bumper supports loading ramps, and their Open Fender system on the front provide it with a distinct look. Other Fab Fours goodies include their Vicowl and their own 24×12 FF521 wheels wrapped with their 40×15.50R24 Kymera tires. A Hellwig Big Sway system with airbags give the Ram more control in towing and hauling. Baja Designs LP9 LED lights and rock lights light its way, while a FLO~PRO exhaust helps amp up power. Other mods include a Titan fuel tank and Warn Zeon 12,000 pound winch.
The overall response to the Crawler Hauler has been positive, especially for those that see it in person. “In typical Fab Fours fashion, we have a few naysayers that wonder why we don’t just pull a trailer…but where is the fun in that,” Kermit laughs. “I absolutely love how this build turned out. Not only is it a show-stopper we wanted it to be, but it’s a fully functional rig that’s used almost daily.”
It’s already been shown at multiple events across the nation and will be used by Greg for his rock crawling outings. “This build definitely holds its own as one of our best in terms of using a mixture of the best industry partners, Fab Fours products and custom fabrication.”
