We took the JETOUR 1 and JETOUR 2 through our off-road training area to see what this 4×4 with no Low Range could do. Here’s what we found.
Common Operating Errors That Influence 4wd Armoured Vehicles (CAVs) Safety and Effectiveness
Some common issues found in fleets of Civilian Armoured Vehicles (CAVs) whilst doing onsite training.
Up-Armoured Vehicles: Understanding Off-Road Capability
Why spend loads of time and effort up-armouring only to produce a vehicle with poor driveability? Some companies do this better than others, so it’s important that the operator has a clear understanding of the positive and negative effects that the up-armouring process produces.
Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) and Up Armoured Cruisers
The ECT facility is there to be used when the vehicle is loaded or towing. Basically, it lets the transmission stay in gear to a higher RPM than normal, reducing the number of automatic gear changes, cutting wear and tear, and improving performance.
CHANGING SPEED AND DIRECTION – ABS
I was doing some on-site training recently, and one of the armoured vehicles we were using had an intermittent issue with its ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Sometimes the light was on; most times it went off and stayed off.
Tyre Max Pressure Ratings for Armoured Vehicles.
Ensure that the tyres fitted to Up Armoured Vehicles have the correct pressure rating. These tyres (photo below) have a max pressured 44 psi where the tyre pressures have to be 55 front and 60 rear.
A Few Points about Armoured Glass and Maintenance
I recently visited IAGs new factory in UAE. As I got shown round the unit that produces the armoured glass (amazed to see the process first hand) I got to confirm and get new information. A new set of windows, including front screen, costs anywhere between 10,000 to 20,000 US dollars,
UAV /CPVs: Consider Armour Overlaps
Up Armouring Process: Testing When a vehicle has gone through an up-armouring process, the prototype should be independently tested to ensure zero penetration for its blast and ballistic rating.
Failed Hill Climb Recovery – 200 Series Land Cruiser
At OnCourse we teach a failed hill climb recovery technique that requires the driver to do a “key start” (this only relates to manual / stick shift vehicles). Over the years of instruction this technique is the only one we have confidence in. For instance, whilst doing training in DRC we had to use a route that included a very severe climb.
Free Wheeling Hubs: Even Toyota Dealers Seem Confused.
It seems even Toyota dealers are confused about the benefits of Free Wheeling Hubs. I guess I will not be coming off this soap box any time soon.
Examples of Modifications Which Affect Off-Road Capability: HR Radio
Modifications which are being made to mount HF radios and which will negatively impact 4wd capability.