Vehicle Preparations for your next 4WD Trip

Vehicle preparation is a very important function of trip preparation and should be taken very seriously. We have listed below some suggestions, as we believe are necessary but advise that there may be many more items that require your attention if your vehicle is more than 12 months and or has more than 60,000 km.

• The air cleaner should be new be new and a new element carried securely in the vehicle.
• Washable foam filters if used may require servicing during the trip.
• Before departure have the engine oil and filter changed.
• Change all drive line oils if service periods will fall during trip.
• Replace radiator coolant (don’t use water).
• Ensure radiator fins are clean and free of grass and bugs.
• Check all hoses; replace if soft or leaking.
• CV & universal joints need to be checked and replaced if suspect.
• Check all belts for wear and cracking.
• Have the visco fan checked.
• Windscreen washers must be in working order.
• Wiper blades should be replaced annually and the silicon types out last the standard rubber type.
• Tyres must be 70% rotate, balance and align.
• All wheel nuts should be lubricated with an “anti seize” before retentioning. Locktite is the brand we have used in the past.
• Suspension needs to be checked for bush wear and shock function. OME Suspension is the suspension part we recommend. A suspension failure can have a major effect on the enjoyment of your trip.
• Brake pads and disc checked for wear (70%) have carried out a brake efficiency test.
• Batteries need to be load tested. Replace if the battery does not perform 100%.
• Alternator should be tested and checked.
• Starter motor should be load tested.
• All electrical connections should be checked and secured.
• The clutch should be checked under load and adjusted if necessary.
• Numberplates need to be secured with 2 screws or bolts at the top and the bottom front and rear.