Helpful hints, useful information & frequently asked questions about 4x4 driving in Australia

Here is a little theory  you can read that will provide a knowledge base for you to build on.

A great source of information on your vehicle and almost every other is the Internet.   One such site is "offroad.com". Here you will find recent road tests and technical info as well as modifications and accessories to suit your requirements. There are a number of clubs in W.A which cater for 4wd enthusiasts and conduct regular outings as well. Click here for other useful links especially web-sites in and around Australia.

Alternatively you may wish to revise or develop new skills, check out some great fishing spots or just travel with another skilled driver on an outdoor adventure. If this is something you would like to do then don't hesitate to call Stuart who can advise on great camping locations and easily accessible routes around Perth and W.A.

Technical Tips

On soft sand it is important to reduce tyre pressures to around 15 psi to gain maximum traction.  Remember that this will seriously affect your 4wd's road handling capability so it is imperative to re-inflate to correct specifications prior to getting back on the road. The tread pattern of your tyres will also affect your vehicle's offroad ability but beware, hardcore offroad tyres generally do not perform well on bitumen. Therefore, if you do intend to buy replacement rubber for your 4wd, be realistic about how much time you really spend on the dirt and make an informed decision based on your needs . Once again the Internet and 4wd clubs will help with accurate advice.

There are a huge array of accessories on the market to make your 4wd the meanest offroader in town. But again it is important to spend your hard earned dollars on things that you will actually need. You can spend thousands on an electric winch, but you may get away with a mechanical winch and instead spend  only spend a few hundred dollars. If you drive carefully and use the correct procedures when offroad you will reduce your risk of becoming bogged.

b. a strong tow rope, and

c. a dependable spare tyre, jack and wheel wrench.

Travelling in Remote Areas

If you are intending to travel away from major townships it is important to have adequate emergency supplies. Things to consider are the availability of fuel and water, food and shelter. Even when travelling along the major highways, fuel stops can be over 300 kilometres apart and so a small miscalculation could leave you stranded on the side of the road. Here are a few vital items you should pack for your trip:

e.   a few spare parts eg, fan belt, spare fuses, electrical tape, and

f.    appropriate off road recovery tools as mentioned in the section above

g.    tell a reliable friend where you are going and your return date.

Knowing your vehicle's and your own ability

It is important to understand your limitations when travelling offroad. Becoming too confident and underestimating the level of difficulty of an obstacle could get you in big trouble. Learning about your 4wd---for example ground clearance, width of body and tyres, maximum lean angles and vehicle overhang, will allow you to use the full potential of your 4wd. Knowing your own ability is harder to determine, but over time your skills and confidence will increase. As a simple rule, especially when travelling without a companion vehicle, if you don't feel comfortable doing something, don't.

Water Crossings

Other simple precautions should also be taken.

Once you enter the water, maintain a constant speed and avoid changing gears. Maintain the engine revs above idle so that you don't stall and allow water back up the exhaust into the engine.

Travelling along corrugated roads

The majority of Australia's roads are dirt and if you travel around enough you will soon find them. With the constant effect of wind and rain these roads become corrugated   (hundreds of tiny hills a few centimetres high from left to right across the track). Travelling in a straight line becomes uncomfortable and noisy, but quite controllable. Travelling around a corner can be positively dangerous if you are moving too quickly. To avoid these dangers always travel at a speed allowing you to safely anticipate the next corner and be able to utilise the engine's own braking ability instead of the footbrake. Overuse of the brakes on a gravel bend could have you in a dangerous 4 wheel skid and heading for the scrub.

When you arrive Home

Rust is a common problem so it is a good idea to give your 4wd a good clean as soon as possible after you get home. Salt water from the beach will speed up corrosion so all beach sand should be washed out from underneath the vehicle.There are many hard to see spots where sand will accumulate so be meticulous and get it all out. Also check that any drainage holes around the base of doors are free of debris. If you have been travelling on dusty roads, remove the air filter and give it a light tap against a flat surface to remove any dust deposits. Check your oil and water levels and inspect the vehicle for damage.

Now you are ready to go again next weekend.

Useful Links:

offroad.com

discoveryauto.com.au

  Contact details:

Instructor: Stuart Bonner

Phone: 08 9306 8278
Mobile: 0411 655 610