Vehicle Maintenance and Checks Before a Bush Trip.

[Paul#25]

Stemming from the discussion and comments on the WhatsApp group after Chas replaced a fuse on his Land Rover, what if any additional maintenance or check do you do on your vehicle before a bush trip? Linked to this, do you carry spare fuses other than the normal small stuff for the heavy power drawing systems on you vehicle?
I have a selection of the big heavy amp fuses and some relays that are always in my travelling/4x4 take along kit.
Before I do a trip like the mountain passes or river trip I did last year I do a nose to tail check of the vehicle looking for loose or damaged bolts, wiring and tubing that is rubbing against the body and general condition of the underside of the vehicle. Having a look at electrical connectors for security and corrosion is another area I check.
What do you guys do or have done to your vehicles?

[icemanza]

Trailers as well. How many people go on holiday and dont service their trailers first.
On long distance trips it is also important to check all your hoses. Fuel, water, etc. Perished pipes can cause all kinds of failures and even fires. Belts too. If I was driving an older vehicle I would check pipes, wiring, belts and bearings.

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[AndreasR]

Whatever you do is fine but i will tell you something to NEVER do.

DO NOT have work done on your vehicle or trailer less than two weeks prior to your departure on a long trip. this applies to things as simple as tyre rotation, wheel alignment or major mechanical repairs.

The reason I say this is that with the level of competence of operators in the motor industry, you want to leave a little time on hand to sort out any mistakes they have made.

[AndreasR]

Self Checks would include all things that will leave you stranded. Its nice to have all your gadgets working but pointless if you cannot get to your destination.

Tyres, Tyres, Tyres.
Cooling system.
Belts.

Just on your spare fuses issue Paul. They are cheap. Take plenty with you. You might blow a few trying to isolate the fault.

[Paul#25]

You are correct about not doing any work on the vehicle just before you leave Andreas. You need shakedown time or a good test flight before the trip.
I've found some guys don't know where the fuse boxes are on the vehicles they drive.
One thing I will add is having your fire extinguishers checked and serviced.

[BushWacker]

I have an ammo box of spares that are
taken on trips away from Joburg:
drive shafts + members, bearings shock,
fuses , etc etc even a spare alternator
and fuel pump ... you name it ...
and a lot of stuff forHeath Robinson
(as Paul calls it) repairs that get one home.
Each time I send my vehicle in for service
ask for ‘ bumper to bumper’ check and
normally nominate a sytem for focus
eg fuel line or suspension, or piping,
or electrics etc etc
When theres tyre fitting or balancing I
normally also check underside ...
last time I picked up loose swaybar bolts
etc
etc

[icemanza]

One thing I will add is having your fire extinguishers checked and serviced.

The fire extinguisher is an important one. A mate of mine stopped on the side of the road in his hilux once and the long grass caught alight. The extinguisher didnt work but luckily their travel buddies did. Hilux was repairable but could have been much worse.

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