When it comes to vehicle modifications, the first question I always ask myself is about the installation process. If it’s something I can tackle in my garage with my tools and some patience, I’m all in. Sometimes, I even rope in friends for a helping hand or to learn from their expertise, especially if they have specialized tools. However, for more complex or time-sensitive projects, I prefer to leave it to the professionals. Take my suspension, for instance. Lifting an Audi Allroad isn’t exactly a common request, so off-the-shelf parts simply don’t exist. It needed a custom solution, crafted by a skilled mechanic and fabricator.
Initially, I reached out to my contacts in the Overlanding community for recommendations. Surprisingly, most off-road shops were hesitant, wary of the Audi’s intricate and sensitive systems. It seemed like a daunting task to many. Fortunately, I stumbled upon a shop willing to embrace the challenge as a unique and interesting project. That’s how I found myself at CAtuned Motorsports in Sacramento, where Max took on the ambitious task of creating a bespoke suspension lift for my Audi A4 Allroad.
Max’s initial approach involved fabricating custom spacers, which impressively boosted the ground clearance to nearly 13 inches. However, it quickly became apparent that this was pushing the Allroad’s suspension beyond its limits. The subsequent process was a journey of trial and error, experimenting to discover the optimal balance. It was uncharted territory, venturing into the unknown. But at that point, there was no turning back. The modification of the Audi A4 Allroad had begun, and we were committed to seeing it through.
One Modification Sparks Another
With the suspension finally dialed in and performing as desired, the natural next step was to put it to the test. Hitting the trails became the proving ground for the enhanced Audi A4 Allroad. This newfound off-road capability ignited a passion for capturing these adventures through photography, specifically off-road vehicle photography. It was more than just testing the car; it was about immersing myself in nature, exploring remote landscapes, and embracing the freedom of the open road. This quickly evolved into an obsession with acquiring camping gear and outfitting the Allroad for extended outdoor expeditions. The Audi A4 Allroad was no longer just a vehicle; it was becoming a platform for adventure.
Looking ahead, I’m also planning to fabricate custom camera rigs specifically for the Allroad. This is driven by a desire to expand my creative pursuits into production work. The possibilities feel endless, with countless ideas brewing to further unleash my creativity, and the Allroad serves as the perfect foundation for these endeavors. Photography has been interwoven into my creative life since 2006. What began as a hobby blossomed into a career. I honed my skills through an apprenticeship as a black & white fine art photographer at Ets-Hokin Studios in San Francisco, exploring abstract photography and supplementing my income with wedding photography. Like any creative path, there are inevitable ebbs and flows in inspiration. After some time, the demands of wedding photography and dealing with challenging clients began to diminish my passion. However, the Audi A4 Allroad project has reignited that creative spark, pushing me in exciting new directions.
