Always make a plan for any trip that you intend to go on, wether you’ve been on the trip before or have years of camping and 4WD experience, things such as where, what season it will be when you arrive, distance, fuel and the time you have allowed yourselves.

FUEL- important always check on the availability, cost and where you can resupply.

Don’t forget to apply for any permits that may be needed before you get to your destination. Eg. Some camping sites need to be booked in advance especially campsites in national parks and during holiday seasons.

Preparing Your 4WD.

Your vehicle means everything to you when you are out on a 4WD adventure.

That is why you must look after your vehicle, it pays to have a well set –up and looked after vehicle.

Always chose the right car for the right job, eg a 4WD that could handle a 300km day trip to the mountains may not be able to handle crossing the Simpson Desert.

Checking Your Mechanicals

In most situations it pays to learn how to service and maintain your own 4WD, it will certainly help when you head for the bush. If you’re not the kind of person that feels confident about the mechanical side of your vehicle be sure to take it to a well-known, trust-worthy mechanic. In most cases, the best place to take your vehicle before you head off road would be a 4WD specialist or your own vehicle manufacturer in most cases these people have been there and done it, experienced many different adventures and will have great stories to tell.

Checking Your Vehicle Yourself

If you plan to check your vehicle yourself here are some handy hints on the basic things you should look at

1.Under the bonnet.

-Check the overall general condition of your motor.

-Check for any noises.

-Check your engines oil level and condition. Check for any leaks, change oil filter, and oil if needed.

-Check radiator coolant level and for any leaks.

-Check the condition of your battery and it’s terminals.

-Check the tension and condition of all belts.

-Check air filter/cleaner and element and clean if required.

-Check the fuel system and again change the filter if required.

-Check the brake and clutch /fluid level.

-Check all wiring.

-Check all engine mounting.

2.Underbody check

-Check for any damage and general condition.

-Check the transmission for any leaks/levels.

-Check the diff for any leaks/levels.

-Check the fuel and brake cables.

-Check drive shafts and uni joints.

-Check shock absorbers and mounting.

-Check brakes-cables, linings, cylinders, and callipers.

-Check springs, shackles, U-Bolts, and mounting points.

-Check wheel bearings and CV joints.

-Check exhaust pipes, connections, and mounting brackets.

-Check free wheeling hubs.

-Check last but not least do not forget your tyres and wheels.

3.On the road.

-Check the general overall performance of your vehicle.

-Check gears-selection and operation of your synchro.

-Check steering-performance and control.

-Check transmission-noises, 4WD operation, and low range operation.

-Check brakes including handbrake performance.

-Check the condition of your windscreen wipers and washers replace if needed.

-Check all your dash instruments and lights.

-Check (very important) all seatbelts, seats, and mounting.  

The above is an extract from 4WD Survival Guide – Driving Skills, Troubleshooting & Vehicle Maintenance.

By: John Basham.