Checklist your tough toys for that epic 4×4 adventure you have planned
Experienced 4×4 enthusiasts never take on Mother Nature’s unforgiving elements without being sufficiently prepared. If you’re part of the uninitiated then pay close attention, because one thing you must know is, that if something can go wrong, it will go wrong. And, if your tough toy is not up for a tough adventure, then you’re in for a nasty surprise.
Dead batteries, leaking fuel tanks and a forgotten drinks cooler bag can turn your epic adventure into an unpleasant experience. So, how do you ensure that your road trip goes off without a hitch? For a start, the cooler needs to be stocked, the rest of the tips follow below.
Dual batteries
A must for any short or long 4×4 trip, dual batteries are your reserve power. Wired into the engine bay, the auxiliary battery ensures your travel refrigerator, radio and safety lights are sufficiently powered when your car is switched off. Take it to the 4×4 professionals to ensure it’s correctly installed.
Accessory batteries need to be mounted with a battery tray, a fabricated steel plate attached to the engine bay. The tray secures the battery to the vehicle body preventing it from vibrating as you navigate rough and uneven terrains that could damage the unit. But if you really want to be on the super safe side, then invest in a dual battery charger, because even the biggest boys know once the battery dies, not even solid muscle is going to do the trick.
Dual battery chargers
The goliath of all things battery energy related, nothing rattles the Redarc dual battery charger’s cage. Mounted either inside your vehicle, or on the engine, this charger is designed to be fully sealed, and uses fan-free cooling to really beat the heat, even in 80°C temperatures – not even Crocodile Dundee would’ve stood a chance.
The benefits are that your battery life is prolonged, the run time of your electrical components – and the all-important cooler – are increased, and available in 12 or 24 volt vehicles. It’ll knock your socks off.
Recovery kits
The all-in-one goodie bag that no 4×4 adventurer should leave home without. Recovery kits are your angels in a canvas pack, filled with the basics that you might need to get out of some sticky situations.
Haul your car out of mud with snatch straps; prevent your winches causing ring bark with tree trunk protectors; folding shovels for those impromptu holes you need to dig yourself out of, bow shackles and several other essentials to keep you from losing your mind in the middle of the outback.
4×4 Vehicle check list
Prepare your vehicle for the long road ahead. A pre-check engine list lines up what you need to examine on your car before your trip. Every lug, bolt, nut and moving part needs to be tested for smooth operation, and your safety.
Here are several points that need attention pre-departure:
- Check the – Oil, brake fluid, coolant, wipers and fluid, brake pads, fan belt, seat belts, cleaner and hoses. All gears need to be oiled and any differentials need to be checked and replaced if necessary.
- Air pressure – Pressure up for freeway driving, and down for sand and terrain driving.
- Check – Lug bolts and U-bolts, and all nuts and bolts throughout your 4×4.
- Closely inspect your engine frame for any cracks.
- Give all joints a good greasing.
- Ensure all cables, winches and straps are in good shape and straightened. A fray will cause weakness of a heavy-duty strap, and kinks can cause knots, making it difficult for use in serious situations.
- Inspect your windscreen. Is it chipped? Do you see any cracks? If so make a booking for a windscreen replacement so it doesn’t fully crack and impair your driving visibility when you’re maneuvering your 4wd in rough terrain.
Unlike regular on-road vehicles, 4x4s require more attention because they’re subjected to rougher conditions. Be prepared for the worst and you’ll enjoy the best of what nature has to offer. Please don’t forget to fill up.
Long range fuel tanks
Go the extra kilometre – or several hundred – with a long range fuel tank. With up to 160 litre capacity, the additional fuel means you can seriously increase your travelling range even in the toughest conditions, without having to worry too much about finding a gas station.
Long range auxiliary tanks are lightweight, weighing about 1/3 of a regular fuel tank; they’re made from industrial strength polymer and are easy to install. They also use factory standard 4×4 mounting points and can withstand the toughest conditions.
All outdoor enthusiasts – experienced and novice – need to know what their 4×4 and the outback are going to demand from them. Use these tips and get in touch with Total 4×4 professionals who will inspect your engine and vehicle to make sure you’re all set.
Now, go forth and take on Mother Nature!