A few tips and tricks for your next adventure:

Swags on roof racks

Always carry your swags on the roof racks so that the ends face the sides. This way, if it rains, the water will not seep inside the swag under wind pressure. Use a ratchet to quickly and effectively mount them to a basket-style roof rack

Carrying fuel in jerry cans

The safest is way to carry fuel in an approved jerry can is inside vehicle behind the cargo barrier/back seats. Use a ratchet tie down (webbing strap) to tension the can up against the cargo barrier. This stops them moving and rattling on rough roads and is there is a leaking cap you will soon smell it. It also aids stability as the heavy weight of the fuel is carried low and directly above the rear axle and suspension

Daily vehicle check while on a trip

It is important to check your 4WD every morning before leaving camp. The obvious items are to check oil and water levels and tyre air pressure, as well as a physical inspection of the underneath of your vehicle, including the suspension, for any signs of damage. If you have Polyairs, check them daily and adjust when necessary. We run up to 45 psi in most 4WDs without any dramas. Tyres can lose pressure overnight from slow leaks and hidden hazards such as sticks or rock damage. A quick spanner check of suspension nuts and bolts is also advisable in heavy 4WD conditions. We always recommend carrying a spare set of new or used shocks for emergency use on long trips.

Roof rack placement for 4WD’s

All basket style roof racks should be position as close to the rear as possible. This has a two-fold benefit:

• The load is carried over the rear axle, eliminating detrimental effects on steering and vehicle stability.
• It means air passing up over the windscreen and roof areas flows better, minimising noise and aiding fuel economy and performance.

When loading basket roof racks, place the heaviest items towards the rear of the rack. Poly airs will aid the vehicle stability with fully laden roof racks.

Manual or electric winch?

Many inexperienced 4WD owners are wrongly advised when buying winches for vehicle recovery. Owners are talked into an electric winch when they do not already own a manual winch. Manual winches are a necessity. Electric and hydraulic winches are a luxury. Manual winches can pull a vehicle backwards, forwards and sideways, while electric and hydraulic winches are fixed to the front of the vehicle and can only effectively pull forward. Which may not be the way out of trouble. Think about it before you buy. Electric and hydraulic winches are great for heavy duty 4WD use, but most owners use them to pull other vehicles out of bogs, holes, etc. Ring us if you need to discuss the best winch option for your particular 4WD and you intended use.

Courtesy of: www.4wdworld.com.au