When CSS Touring rolled in with their Short Wheel Base GU Nissan Patrol, it was clear from the start this wasn’t your average custom job. The GU Shorty already has a cult following thanks to its rarity and compact, aggressive stance — but this build took things to a whole new level. Tier One Metalworks was brought in to deliver premium mounting solutions and modular setup options that matched the vehicle’s capability and attitude.
Image: This is an image of the CSS Touring GU Shorty Nissan Patrol Build
A Rare Platform Built for Real Touring
The Short Wheel Base GU Patrol is one of the most unique platforms on Australian tracks. Its short footprint makes it nimble on technical climbs, and its boxy design has become iconic among Patrol enthusiasts. CSS Touring wanted to take that uniqueness further by pairing it with a clean, tough, and functional setup — without overcrowding the vehicle with unnecessary gear.
That’s where Tier One Metalworks came in. Our system isn’t just about mounting options — it’s about creating a low-profile, modular, and durable foundation that helps builds like this reach their full potential.
Tier One Metalworks Roof Rack System
For this GU Shorty, Tier One supplied a full modular roof rack rail system, giving CSS Touring the flexibility to run multiple configurations depending on the trip. The slimline design keeps everything tight to the roof, reducing drag and preserving the Patrol’s tough, compact silhouette.
Image: This is an image of the GU Shorty Nissan Patrol featuring a Tier One Metalworks Roof RackWhat the Tier One system offered this build:
- Low-profile mounting: Perfect for rooftop tents or lightweight touring storage
- Cross bar compatibility: Allows quick setup changes based on the trip
- Rails designed for strength: Made from 3 mm mild steel with a zinc electroplated base
- Modular expansion: Extra accessories such as rear wings or lighting can be added later
Designed to handle real Aussie conditions, our roof rack system gave the GU Shorty the practicality it needed without overwhelming its already bold design.
Why This Shorty Build Works So Well
CSS Touring didn’t aim to create a show pony — they wanted a tough, functional rig that still looked sharp. Tier One Metalworks gear helped achieve exactly that. The combination of compact design, solid mounting options, and the flexibility to grow the setup over time made this GU Shorty a genuinely capable tourer.
The highlights of this build:
- Rare Short Wheel Base platform
- Clean, colour-matched protection gear (done by CSS Touring)
- Fully modular mounting options
- Low-slung, aggressive stance
- Purpose-built for real outback travel
Even with its bold exterior finish, the backbone of this build is practicality — everything has a purpose, and every upgrade contributes to its capability on and off the tracks.
Image: This is an image of the GU Shorty Nissan Patrol featuring a Tier One Metalworks Roof Rack and Raslarr bull bar.
Built for Enthusiasts, Made for the Tracks
This GU Shorty stands out not just because of its colour and compact body, but because it’s built with intention. Tier One Metalworks components are engineered to be modular, strong, and reliable — exactly what a rare short-wheel-base platform deserves.
Whether you’re building a touring beast, a weekend warrior, or a one-of-a-kind shorty like this GU, Tier One gives you the flexibility to customise your setup without compromising strength or style.
