4x4 Action Group

Anybody else following it?

As usual, Giniel hardly gets any mention in the Dakar news feeds. It’s been the same for years now, even though he’s among the most consistent drivers in terms of results, including a win, yet he doesn’t get enough credit or odds.

Have a look at #143 on the bikes, NICOLA DUTTO.
That is someone with guts and determination.

Really hope Giniel and his team do the business this year again.

I found him & will follow his progress



This is likely Toyota’s best chance this year due to less manufacturers

I definitely follow this race, will be watching with interest.

I was wondering the other day, what type of 4x4 system do these top 4x4 guys use (excluding the production class of course).

Is it all open diffs with selectable rear / Centre lockers or LSD, or what else could they be using?

I’m interested to compare to standard production vehicle systems.

Following Kurt onn this.

If memory serves me correctly, the 4WD class looks like this with the Dakar Duster, but I’m sure the others are about the same in that particular class, as per what the rules permit.
They also split the T1 class into diesel & petrol:

- 50/50 drive to each axle permanently, which is probably a viscous set up. In addition, there is also a mechanical Centre Lock but it’s only engaged in emergencies to get them home if there is driveline damage. The Duster crew told me it sounds like hell when it’s engaged.

- there’s no diff locks, only an aggressive LSD, both front & rear.

- there’s no low range & it’s a sequential box. There’s a clutch but it’s just for pulling away & stopping.

- front is independent & rear is a very fancy modified Patrol axle.

- There’s 8 coil over shocks in total - 2 per wheel. They cost R40k each.

The 2wd categories are obviously different.

Thanks Neil, very informative.

Where do you guys watch ?? Or do you just get results on internet ?

@Neil:
Thank you I thought it was much more complex given today's technology.

You can follow the progress of each stage on the Dakar website. There is a package shown each night after the stage that is on DSTV amongst others. The package is what is released by the Dakar organisation and not edited by the TV stations.

Al-Attiyah wins the first, very short 84km stage, by 1m59sec to Sainz in the Mini

Should be an interesting stage today, 552kms and a 342km long special.

Also not too bad for South African debutant Shameer Variawa (car nr 429) finishing 45th, 20mins off the pace in his Nissan Navara.
South African rider Kenneth Gilbert ended stage 1 in 40th place, 17mins behind the stage winner.

The side by sides at first thought seems like it is something gimmicky, but I find them very interesting and they are attainable cost wise.. it was quite interesting to see how absorbent their suspension setups are.

I wonder if those that are being raced here are 4 wheel drive?

Giniel fastest at Waypoint 2 and 37seconds behind Peterhansel at WP3.