Unsealed road surfaces, especially when they’re dry, have to be treated as low traction. … [Read more...]
Has Your 4wd’s Approach Angle Been Compromised?
Whenever you fit something to a 4wd vehicle, there will be a trade off. Understanding this compromise is essential to managing not only your off road capability but also for driving defensively. … [Read more...]
My Thoughts on Using Synthetic Shackles
Recently purchased some synthetic shackles (Gator-Jaw) from Bubba Rope in the States. I had gotten one of their kinetic energy ropes through someone that was leaving Uganda and was very impressed. … [Read more...]
Why I Don’t Like Roof Racks
I don't like roof racks and don't have them fitted to any of our vehicles. Reasons for this dislike are many but the main one is safety.Roof racks encourage loading fairly heavy stuff on the top of vehicles. … [Read more...]
Why You Should Care Which Handbrake System Your 4wd Has
There are two common types of handbrake systems fitted to 4wd vehicles:A handbrake which works on the rear brake shoes. A transmission brake that is fitted to the rear output of the transfer box. … [Read more...]
Raised Air Intakes – Are They Really Necessary?
It's hot, it's dusty and it's dry - so why should you consider fitting a raised air intake? … [Read more...]
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. … [Read more...]
Preventing a 4wd Rollover on an Unsealed Road
A recent event has prompted me to revisit this subject. Fortunately, all involved were not seriously hurt but so easily could have been. Therefore, I believe it is important to address why this type of MVC occurs frequently and to seemingly "experienced" national drivers, the "old Africa hands" and newcomers alike? … [Read more...]
Mud Glorious Mud: The Basics of Driving Through Mud
Although soil conditions may change from heavy clay to the renowned "black cotton", dealing with mud is approached in much the same way. The only difference really is how your tyres will clog up.Driving through shallow mud (2" deep or less)The ideal situation is to have the full weight of the vehicle pushing your tyres through the mud and attempting to grip onto the firm ground underneath. To do this you have to have your tyres at the correct pressure. If the pressure is too low then you … [Read more...]
Do You Need a Winch?
Picking recovery equipment for your vehicle is a bit like selecting a 4wd. First, you need to examine where, when and what you are going to be doing - then selecting the equipment most suitable.I tend to overkill on the equipment I carry around, mainly because I have been stuck in situations where I had wished I had brought such and such along. But then again I go looking for it. Its my job and my hobby!!Why Fit a Winch?A lot of people want to get a power winch. Why? Because they look … [Read more...]
How To Prevent A 4wd Rollover On Unsealed Roads
Having rolled a vehicle back in my early days working upcountry in Uganda, I learnt the hard way about the dangers of unsealed roads. Since then, I've treated this very dangerous road surface with the utmost respect. … [Read more...]