How to Decide 4×4 Vehicles the Suspension System
When you are buying a 4×4 for regular use in the bush, you will need to decide whether the vehicle’s suspension system should be fitted with leaf or coil springs.
There is no doubt that both leaf and coil springs perform well. In the past, the leaf spring has been more reliable, and of a better quality, than the coil spring, but the latter has become equally reliable, with some manufacturers recently changing from leaf to coil springs. In station- wagons, for example, this change was probably implemented to enhance the comfort of the ride. (more…)
PETROL OR DIESEL?
If you are planning to embark on an extended trip to Egypt through East Africa, it is advisable to opt for diesel, as petrol is often not available, of a poor quality or lacking in the additives to which engines in Southern Africa are tuned. Diesels are more economical in terms of fuel consumption. On the other hand, if you are going to drive around Southern Africa — South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe or Botswana — then either petrol or diesel is fine. (more…)
Different Classes, different rating of the different types of 4×4 vehicles
Each class of vehicle has been rated according to the Kaoko Scale, a rating system I devised for the first 4×4. We were looking for a way to simplify the conditions the offroader is likely to encounter. Each class of vehicle has been rated according to the range of conditions and terrain it can handle. (more…)
Auto Care: Auto Parts/ Auto Kit must have Shopping List
- Battery hydrometer
- Coolant hydrometer
- Drain basin
- Droplight
- Emery cloth
- Fine sandpaper
- Fire extinguisher
- Funnel
- Fuse puller
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Jumper cables
- Lug wrench
- Needle-nose pliers
- Oil filter (strap) wrench
- Putty knife
- Rubber mallet
- Screwdrivers(Phillips and standard)
- Socket wrench
- Spark plug socket
- Terminal puller
- Tire pressure gauge
- Wheel blocks
