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DRIVING TIPS, ADVICE AND TECHNIQUES
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Expedition Driving

Click this link for a expedition vehicle checklist.

 Expedition Driving

1. Packing
is perhaps one of the more important things to look at. All items should be arranged so that:

  • it would take the least amount of space
  • items do not move about (or break) when driving over rough terrain
  • items do not pose a danger to passengers should they be dislodged

1.1 Stack items in trays and boxes, with those frequently used items on top or have easy access.

1.2 Use ratchet tie-downs, bungee cords and string/ropes.

1.3 Try to keep weight down and not take the kitchen sink.

1.4 Fuel - diesel or petrol should be outside the passenger compartments.

Items are neatly stacked. There's still more things to pack such as tent, cooking utensils, high lift jack and baggage. 220v inverter provides power for home electronics (within reason off course).

 

2. What to bring (this is a long list and will be placed under different headings)

A. Must have items

  1. torch light and night light
  2. tow strap/rope
  3. 2 nos. bow shackle (rated min. 2 tones)
  4. spare wheel & wheel changing tools including jack
  5. set of tools - spanners and pliers
  6. CB Radio (VHF)
  7. tarpaulin/fly sheet
  8. changkul/spade
  9. drinking water
  10. wrist watch

B. Consumables

  1. drinking water
  2. snacks and food
  3. umbrella
  4. raincoat
  5. change of clothes

C. Overnight trips

  1. bedding (and camp bed)
  2. towels and toiletries
  3. tent or tarpaulin
  4. cleaning water

D. Safety items

  1. First aid kit
  2. Fire extinguisher
  3. Cargo barrier
  4. Back-up medication (antibiotics, pain killers, steroid and burn creams)

E. Vehicle Spare parts/items

  1. Brake and clutch fluids
  2. Motor oil
  3. Gear oils
  4. Universal joints
  5. Water pump
  6. Radiator cooling fan kit
  7. Beltings (of all kinds)
  8. Bulbs (for all light fixtures)
  9. Fuses
  10. Tubeless tyre puncture kit
  11. Length of electrical wire
  12. Length of wire (for tying things)
  13. Nylon cable tie (various sizes)
  14. Duct tape
  15. Spare fuel (for long journeys)

F. Nice to have items

  1. Dual battery system (MUST for electrical winch)
  2. Cooler box
  3. Map
  4. GPS and compass
  5. Spot and drive lights (roof mounted are best)
  6. High lift jack
  7. Ground anchor
  8. Portable stove
  9. Camera/video cam
  10. Hand held spot light

2. Vehicle preparation

  • Vehicle spot and drive lights- you must tryout your lights for expedition driving. There are many things that can go wrong with lights- worse is that it can reflect back to you, blinding you in that process.

    Vehicle must be serviced before expedition (all oils and fluids topped up)

  • Vehicle must be in good running condition (without any nagging problems)

  • 4x4 system in good working order

  • Must have sufficient storage space

  • Must have both front and back recovery points (recovery points are places where you can attach rope or strap to to pull your vehicle or other vehicles).

  • Have suitable tyres with good treads (for Ba Kelalan must have mud terrain tyres)

Other advice - one out of three vehicles must be equipped with a winch.

3. Expedition participants

  1. Have a good attitude- this is an adventure and nothing is FIXED. You have to expect the unexpected.
  2. Should be in good health.
  3. Be appropriately dressed. In the sun best to have long sleeves. In the highlands it can get cold, so have a jacket handy.
  4. As it rains a lot, do wear wet clothes- you can catch a cold which can develop to other complications.
  5. Prevention is better than cure - take care of yourself.
  6. If you have a medical problem, do not forget your medication.